The effect of fast-penta is also idiosyncratic. The last time By was dosed, he ended up giggling nearly the entire time. To his mortification, the moment the drug is administered, he can feel tears welling up in his eyes - and then the drug really takes over, and he can't feel mortified. Instead, he lets out a trembling little sob even as his brain coasts on a wave of contentment and warmth.

"Byerly Vlad Vorrutyer," he responds, and lifts his free arm to wipe away a line of snot. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."