It isn't fear that drives his reluctance, but the weight of the den, the weight of being the child of an umavi. Verin was born - a fully new soul - into both of those things. With a quiet sigh, he sinks back and slides deeper into the water, until he's submerged to his shoulders. He peers over at Essek as he removes a layer. His brother is beautiful, and he dresses to spectacular effect. Verin knows it is his privilege to see Essek Thelyss without his armor.
But the exchange is even: Essek is one of the very few to see Verin without his.
"I will not ask you to endure her if you'd rather not." Verin is certain he can handle their mother, even if it will be reluctantly. A small smile tugs at his mouth. "Though I would be lying if I said I would not appreciate the moral support."
Verin sighs a soft curse and finally submerges himself entirely. He takes the chance to run his fingers through his hair, scrubbing at his scalp to ensure the dust is fully dislodged. He resurfaces with a heavy exhale, then relaxes against the back of the tub again.
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But the exchange is even: Essek is one of the very few to see Verin without his.
"I will not ask you to endure her if you'd rather not." Verin is certain he can handle their mother, even if it will be reluctantly. A small smile tugs at his mouth. "Though I would be lying if I said I would not appreciate the moral support."
Verin sighs a soft curse and finally submerges himself entirely. He takes the chance to run his fingers through his hair, scrubbing at his scalp to ensure the dust is fully dislodged. He resurfaces with a heavy exhale, then relaxes against the back of the tub again.