[Gods he was beautiful, and Bren had to wrestle with the urge to touch him, stronger than he could really understand. But he managed to hold back, a testament to his willpower. He'd congratulate himself for that later.

For now, he felt himself smiling once again at his mysterious and beneficent rescuer, at the fact that Lord Thelyss did indeed intend to be the one to show him the library, that he'd have at least that much excuse to see him again the next night.]

Thank you again, for everything.

[It was so much more than he deserved, so much more kindness than he had been offered before.]

Goodnight, Lord Thelyss. Sleep well.

[Once Essek had left and Bren found himself alone in the room, he looked around once more. It was still overwhelming, to be somewhere so relatively lavish, somewhere warm and safe. He took a breath and wandered over to the bed, not hesitating to scoop Frumpkin up into his arms.]

I think I have you to thank for leading him to me, ja? You are a very good cat, Frumpkin. An excellent cat.

[Bren settled himself into bed, bringing the cat with him, more pleased than he can admit when Frumpkin only cuddled himself in closer like this was what the cat had been waiting for.

Sleep came for Bren quickly, exhaustion immediately pouncing on him the moment he was no longer on his feet. And the dream came shortly thereafter.]