Though Kell was solid to lean against, he didn't often have the right words. He didn't have Rhy's easy, gentle humor that managed to be both arrogant and utterly comforting. He was best at orienting, pushing through.

At action.

But sometimes, life had to take a moment and sit still.

So he didn't answer, not aloud. Instead Kell drew Neria closer, enough to work both arms around her and hold on. It was late and the night was still. The candlelight was all that seemed to hold back the shadows, but for Kell the shades of this place had never been hostile or foreboding.

Sanctuary.

"We can stay here for the night," he offered. "Or I can take you back to the castle. You could stay with me-" Kell planned to give up the bed, "-or I can find you a room."