< And how did it go, eh? With him? >

Numair actually flinched. < Oh, > he said. < Badly. > He then suddenly sat up straighter, distressed. < As bad as it could have possibly gone, in fact! Worse than you can imagine, Helly! Not the least because I didn't even get to tell him myself! >

Helly looked bemused. < Oh? Then who... >

Numair sat forward despite the movement seeming to set off a wave of pain in his head, and motioned for Helly to lean towards him. With a meaningful look, he showed Helly his sharp teeth in a grimace, pointed at them, and whispered, "Tha."

A look of complete horror overtook Helly. Ne was dumbstruck, but even so Numair said quickly, < Say nothing. >

He sat back again, bracing his head on his hand, and mumbled, < I don't know how or why, but there they were. I don't even know where to begin, this is such a nightmare. > He paused. < ...But he didn't take it well, in any case. >

Helly stared at him, mouth fully open, and set the teapot down on the rug so shakily that it rattled against the tray. Numair just remained hunched over his cup of tea, saying miserably, < I should have known better, Helly. I just...I just wanted out so badly. But I should have known better. >