Nyler's head snapped around, a deep frown etching its way across his delicate face. For a long moment, he said nothing, and his silence weighed more than any denial.
"I'm not required to answer your questions Beta Vael," Nyler finally said, his tone sharp and clipped.
The sharp rejection hurt more than it had any right to, but Vael soon covered that hurt. "Don't get angry," he said, his brown hair flopping over his eyes as he tipped his head in apology.
"I didn't intend to offend you, I was only curious."
Nyler's frown did not relax, but he didn't turn away either.
Wanting to redirect the tone of their exchange, Vael straightened up and gave a slight smile. "Allow me to repay you for saving me," he said earnestly. "I'm able to grant you a noble title, gold, estates — all your wishes. Just name whatever you want."
