The Professor raised both hands, calling for a bit of calm, and then silently pointed at a nearby set of armchairs, probably to be more comfortable when reading. Once both were seated, the Professor started speaking, in a careful tone. It is a delicate subject after all.

"I played, yes, and I lost. Made it to the last round, with all the costs and rewards it entailed, but my rival... It is complicated. All the other competitors had such haughty desires, and I wanted something great as well... But the final winner had, painful as it is to admit, the best desire of us all. Once I saw him claim it I knew I couldn't have won, not with that will within my rival's chest. And in time I learned I didn't even need my desire fulfilled. I also learned quite a lot while it lasted, so I can't really say I lost, not entirely..."

"Never thought on playing again. Too high stakes, too powerful an obsession, encompassing all aspects or life. It served its function, I am done with it. But I may yet be of help to someone willing to learn... If you are ready to take the risk of exchanging your very own heart for something that can be given with too malicious an intent."

"Please, don't misunderstand me. I'm not trying to deter you. Just a friendly warning before playing with Destiny's Valet."