[He allows the lean in, settling next to Temenos. It's a relief, to hear the dedication, to knowing that his feelings are being given weight. Knowing that Temenos cares about him enough to even consider making that change... it settles some of the twist in his stomach.

But there's still something he wants to make clear. So he chews on his words in silence for a long moment.]

It's not just for me.

[Another squeeze of his leg, running his thumb against the knee.]

People need someone smart like you, somebody that will ask hard questions. I don't think what you do is bad.

...Promise me that you'll ask for help. It doesn't need to be from me. But you're not the only one that wants answers. You're not the only one with ideas. Everybody can work together. But... we need to talk, to do that. That means you, too.

[He leans his head to rest against the cleric's.]

You don't want me to give in to wrath. I don't want you to give in to pride.