We can test that another time. Here, put your weight on me. [ He's supported Fran a few times after a bad run. David's bulkier, but their heights are similar, and Balthier is strong. He's gentle helping David lean against him.

He reaches for the decoy spell again. Nothing specific, just a sense of very normal, boring people no one will notice. That seemed to work before; he can drop it when they get farther away, or when the headache gets too bad. ] Is that good? I can always carry you but I'm not sure you want your dignity affronted. [ His voice has changed -- softened. He's only really used that voice with Fran, and the occasional terrified child. He doesn't notice. ] Easy. There you go.