Again, the man fell silent. The cost was relatively low for the potential profit it was likely to provide.

"Alright."

Lucien turned, ready to get back to his day but was struck by an odd mood of endearment toward the Upstead child. Stiffly, he turned to face the Slytherin once more. He gave a firm but not abrasive pat to their cheek. "I enjoy you more than the others, don't make me have to kill you."

The man expected great things from this one. At the very least, he expected results and at the end of the day, that was all he really cared about. The alliance had big steps to take and roadblocks would not be welcome.

"I expect some update by the end of the week." Not a request, it was officially Upstead's job.

"Come sooner if needed."

And with that, the man turned to leave--unless there was any other business to be discussed.