"Oh, I'm only using my own blood." [ He says it sharply, a tad mockingly. ] "Just a handful for now -- it's all I'll need." That's always how it starts, isn't it?

[ Once he judges they're a good distance away from his former assailant, Dorian stops, taking a deep breath. ]

I am grateful for your help -- truly, you have my sincerest gratitude -- but blood magic? Binding spirits? You must know how this sounds.