the blood running through your veins

[Nouzin Petzeiros]

He takes the hand you've offered. This time no reason to hurry. No need to feel pressured. Just your hand in his and soft pressure. A new friend made. And hopefully one who'll be capable of telling you more about the worm stuck in your head. Now that there aren't any bars keeping him locked anymore. Then again - he's been locked up for so long. It'd be tactless from you to demand solutions to your problems when he probably hasn't breathed fresh air in days nor seen the sunlight above his head.
You let your hand sink. Eyes wandering to the light above you like you're trying to imagine what it must feel like out here for the first time after being imprisoned for so long.

Nouzin

Halsin.

You repeat his name like you're trying to savor the taste on your tongue.

Nouzin

I've heard a lot about you. Your presence has left an impression on the stories that circulate around here.

Your gaze sinks again to meet his. He looks like a man who has an answer to everything. Like a man who's been harboring knowledge for centuries. You can see why the Grove puts so much trust into him. You'd trust him too.

Nouzin

And your researches.

Indirectly asking him about his tadpole researches although you know better. You weren't raised to be like this. To push and demand when people should rest and be given space. You've been raised to be considerate and always thought yourself to be just that. But - there's a worm nested in the midst of your brain and your sister somewhere in Baldurs Gate, miles away from your reach. Desperation makes you lose your manners more often than not lately.