Takeo strongly resisted the urge to bite his lower lip and look exasperated. Stupid unreliable and morally objectionable magical powers of hypnosis!

"Fair enough," he said, smiling a little. "I'm sorry I couldn't be of service. I'll be on my way then... In fact," he gave it a little thought. It seemed harder to command things that went against someone else's will, but... "Hmm, just don't mind me. In fact, pretend I'm not even here..."