[ He listens with interest to the story about the Raven Queen, since he’s absolutely correct that it especially piques Tezcatlipoca’s interest. The mortal side of it is a bit interesting to hear, because if it works anything like it would for him, then the mortal pleas don’t hold all that much weight, really. It’s simply whim of the one that holds their friend’s soul. Tezcatlipoca wouldn’t be inclined to give one up, for example. Not without “payment” being offered, but that’s just his personal way of doing things.

It's nothing he speaks to directly, since the details of how those sorts of things work are best kept to himself. If anyone ever finds themselves in the situation, it’s better to be a surprise, honestly. So, he just hums out a pleased note for that part of the story. It’s at least a good one, certainly. ]

Oh, for sure. Any story that includes cheatin’ death is a good one. Or bargaining with death, as is the case.

[ But as Taryon explains his role, that cool expression warms again with interest. ]

Prep guy, huh? With coins? [ He steps in a little closer and lifts his sunglasses so he can take a better look at it. ] Wouldn’t have pegged ya for a mage, but all the better. I like warriors, but anyone that uses spells is much more neatly under my care.