"I was attempting humor. It would appear I need to work harder. I do not expect it is something you would be paying back," Fred explained.

"I have patents under false names that leave me a substantial sum of funds I used to stay ahead of my progenitor until I arrived here. Until now I have yet to find a means of utilizing them. Whether you take my offer or not, I have no immediate use for that money any longer." Fred maintained a calm veneer, not wanting to showcase any deeper emotions.