Though the circumstances were awful, it was a little comforting to know that they were no longer at each other's throats. By no means did Askan ever think they would be the best of buddies but this was more than enough for the Selwyn. More than he could ask for really, considering... He swallowed thickly as they walked along in silence, his mind was whirling, he could scarce keep it together but the last thing he wanted to do was have a freak out with Jessie around. He imagined she'd understand, but that didn't make the thought any more tolerable. He'd rather go through the motions whilst she was here, everything else could wait.

His steps briefly faltered as he absorbed the weight of her words. He was tempted to stop but he shoved that notion aside and kept on, slowing down a little so they could continue to walk side by side. As equals. This was his home, yes, but in that moment they were joined by grief.

"Don't...don't mention it. I know you'd do the same for me."

They continued on till the Shallows came into sight...

Fade