[ all of the information is filed away for safekeeping, but his pale brows pinch as he looks at aspen, wordlessly handing back the tea and now pulling the scarf toward himself, nestled against the cold ache of his heartbeat. his eyes flicker down to the petticoats, largely uninterested in the inconvenience of these fashion choices. ]

You shouldn't share such weaknesses so readily. [ he's certain aspen will respond with something foolish. ] No one should know how essential your staff is to your magic. I have not displayed my strengths here for a reason.

[ not that he feels any of his strengths now. he's sapped of all energy — from the miserable cold, from the ache of what has to be a damaged tether. the ship rocks beneath them, and laurent thinks the tea he just ingested might make a reappearance. he sits perfectly still, resisting the pull of his shadow. ]

I don't want anything from you. [ he draws his knees up, aspen's scarf pillowed on his knees as he nestles his chin in the soft fabric, shivering despite himself. ] We'll part ways as soon as the ship docks.