Skulduggery would not be the first to be impressed by Septimus's integrity. In his lifetime, it was an entirely unconscious and intentional habit--not least because while Carna is indeed likely very different from Skulduggery's home, it is nonetheless quite bloodthirsty and murder is a not-wholly-infrequent part of Aleran politics (as Septimus could attest to). And yet, in it all, Septimus refused to abandon principles and idealism. To his mind, it is like victory in the minds of soldiers: expectation of it can, with cultivation, breed the result. Leading his people to that was ever and always the purpose of his life. Now that he has almost come to terms with Keeliai as a second home, that same drive is emerging.

It rarely fails to leave an impression.

After Septimus has the door, Skulduggery won't feel his magic being drained; however, if he is capable of the perception, he will feel a slight pressure on his eardrums. It is barely preceded by a faint gesture from Septimus's hand as he tosses up a windcrafting to soundproof the room. No trace of this will be heard outside. After indicating Skulduggery can sit, he makes his way to his own chair behind his desk. "You were saying, about finding ways to purify water."