There is something appealing about the way Percy brightens when he comes up from the water, like the layers of grime and hard living are already starting to flake off to reveal the surprisingly young man underneath. Young and handsome, despite his shyness; it's no mystery why he wouldn't see it, but from Vex's perspective it's not so hard.

Quality isn't so easy to degrade. That goes for gear bought secondhand, and apparently it goes for nobility as well. With a little work and a good eye for the workmanship underneath, it's a wonder what you can dig up.

And where you can find it.

Vex lifts a chunk of soap, holding it toward him, then higher—playing a bit of keepaway.

"I could give it to you," she acknowledges archly. "On the other hand, I could do that for you? What's the use of having an extra set of hands in the bath if you're not going to make use of them?"