"Sprightly," she repeats thoughtfully, before she smiles. There is nothing of jealousy in it. "That is a good word for her, I think." Aeriel is tireless but there is a brightness to Eoduin's energy, the spark that keeps her always moving, always socializing, hatching some scheme to win the attention she wants. There is nothing there to be jealous of; it's not a life that Aeriel wants, and it pleases her most of the time to see the joy Eoduin takes in it. When her roommate has company that keeps her from sleep, or insists upon dragging her out to some bar to make sure she gets home safe when Aeriel would rather be studying, she'll admit, it is less charming, but she accepts that as her lot in life.

Eoduin is not, perhaps, the sister Aeriel never had, but that is all right. She is as kind as she knows how to be, and somehow that hard-won affection softens the sharper edges of their lives. Eoduin is not accustomed to saying thank you, but now and then she thinks to do it.

They're close enough to Talb's room now that she hesitates, not certain she's willing to bring him much nearer. This place is a sanctuary of sorts; she isn't suspicious of his motives, but it feels wrong.