Hawkeye tossed something small, golden and heavy at Vespertine. Catching it, the man fell silent before beckoning them in.

“Baron. It’s been a long time; what brings you back?”

Hawkeye nodded wordlessly at Elletra, who couldn’t help admiring the beautifully decorated gold egg in Vespertine’s hands. Covered in impossibly intricate mathematical-looking curves and spirals, it gleamed the dull metallic sheen of pure gold.

She couldn’t imagine the worth of such an item.

“Payment in full, Vespertine, just like old times.”

“Ah, yes. Your vision is still as good as I remember – the measurements you sent along are perfect even to my eyes.”

Before she could react, he ushered them through to his workshop. On a broad, leather-covered workbench a wonderful gown in a shimmering satin-like material was spread carefully out, lacking only the finishing touches.

“It was a challenge to finish on time -”

“But you rose to it, as you always have.” Hawkeye finished stiffly, softening it with a wink.