Gnome’s expression was soft as they stood together beneath the canopy. It cast a green light upon them both as Veles further explained her recent past. The serenity in her voice did reassure him somewhat, though he still had qualms about a family that would cast out a daughter due to blindness. Whether or not it would “free” her, he didn’t think it was something he would’ve been able to stomach doing to Iris or Eve. Still, he internally acknowledged that as he was not raised with such a belief system he couldn’t pretend to fully understand where they were coming from.

“Very well, then, Veles, I will not worry about that piece anymore. If you feel that it was not malicious, I believe you.” He said this with a smile to match hers, hoping that it would seep into his words and be noticeable to her despite her inability to see. He searched her face as she hesitated, his gaze lingering for just a moment on her clouded eyes. Gnome closed his own eyes, trying to imagine what it would be like to live in eternal darkness. He knew that Veles still retained some vision in one eye, but eventually her world would be black. Conversely, he could still detect the faint green light on the other side of his eyelids. He would not be able to fully imagine her reality, unless he suffered an injury or ailment in the future.

Her voice prompted him to open his eyes again. It did not surprise him that she wanted to be close, but it delighted him that she was willing to travel. In the jungle of Paradise he often found that he felt enclosed, and he appreciated the occasional venture to the largest isle. Hence, how they had met each other. The grullo was clearly anxious about his reaction to her request, but she needn’t have worried. Taking a step forward, he reached his pink muzzle out to give a reassuring nudge to her forelock. “Stay as close as you need, Veles. I have been without good company for too long. I frequently make patrols along the borders, so you can come with me and quickly learn some of the lay of the land. However, even after you are more comfortable here I will welcome your companionship.” He then backed away from her, in case she was uncomfortable with his physical closeness.

Looking out from underneath their little shelter, he saw that the day was still young. It was not too hot, so it would be a good opportunity for Veles to start getting familiar with the borders at least, if not the inner maze of the jungle. “If you aren’t too tired from all your adventures the last several days, would you like to go explore a little?”

Gnome