"Thank you," is for Thot, words warmed with fondness. It's easy to be fond of Thot, however complicated his relation to Richard (Silas) is at any given moment.

But there is some consideration after, watching the work of Silas' knife.

"You haven't," is not a question. Ellis saw Silas in the dream. And yes, it was a dream, but parts of it were very true.

His hands stretch back over the fire, bowl balanced on one thigh. The crooked fingers are tipped towards that warmth first, and a few beats before Ellis adds, "Do you aspire to regardless?"

Is that something tied to the position he'd hoped for, or was we for his people, family, whoever he left at home?