[Ahhh. "Fine" the child might name himself, but he's certainly still suffering the aftermath of that battle. Illarion's been party to enough of the awful manifestations of combat stress to well understand why his mere appearance might be cause for fear--even if he'd never been a direct threat.
That very fear is reason enough for him to turn and walk out of here; it pulls at instincts worn thin by the pressures of the month. But there are questions he'd like answered...and to a Disciple's senses, there's a hint of something wrong that reminds the shrike why he'd even been in a position to join that battle in the first place.
A Scholar had tried pilfering supplies for an exorcism and run to that part of Gaze to hide when caught.]
I was there, [he affirms,] and I took little hurt to begin with, never fear. While you--if you will forgive me--do not seem quite so fine as you say.
I am sorry for this. I wish there had been another way, for all of us. [There's sympathy in his tone, quiet though it may be.]
Do you have a moment to speak with me? I would not keep you from your duties, if not.
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That very fear is reason enough for him to turn and walk out of here; it pulls at instincts worn thin by the pressures of the month. But there are questions he'd like answered...and to a Disciple's senses, there's a hint of something wrong that reminds the shrike why he'd even been in a position to join that battle in the first place.
A Scholar had tried pilfering supplies for an exorcism and run to that part of Gaze to hide when caught.]
I was there, [he affirms,] and I took little hurt to begin with, never fear. While you--if you will forgive me--do not seem quite so fine as you say.
I am sorry for this. I wish there had been another way, for all of us. [There's sympathy in his tone, quiet though it may be.]
Do you have a moment to speak with me? I would not keep you from your duties, if not.