Alina paused at the doorway, and turned back to the inventor. "I can assure you they are," Alina said. Just not in the patent you're thinking of, she added in her mind. "And it probably has something to do with that," she replied, allowing a smile to briefly flicker across her lips.

"Yes, Mr. Thatcher. This is the Conference Room. A lovely space for a meeting and discussion, I'm sure you'll agree." Well, it wasn't like there was anywhere else to hold this meeting if he didn't, but nevermind. "A pet dragon?" Alina chuckled. "It's invisible if he does, but I'm sure it's very well trained if it exists." She then realised that this man might actually believe her. He looked the gullible and slightly nervous type. "I'm joking, of course."