Fendros held Ahnasha's hand in return. He otherwise remained still.

Sabine spoke quietly to answer Ahnasha. "Meesei or I could enchant something to wear to make you more resistant, Fendros. Or make your birthsign absorb more magic. But, you will not always have them." Her confidence increased. "I know how to help you practice, though. I know a spell to transfer magicka to another person. I know you said the potions make you feel sick, so I can drink them and give you magicka to practice. We will have to practice every day."

After a blink, Fendros gave a few shallow nods. "Thank you, Sabine." He did not make eye contact.

"It sounds like that's not what's bothering you, Fendros," Janius said, craning his head to one side. "What part is making you think the most?"

Fendros raised his eyes to Janius and sighed. He looked away again, turning his head slightly. "It's just a change. A big change. I want to do what is right for the lycans on Tamriel. It's bigger than any responsibility I thought I would have. And...This will go beyond the war. I wanted to focus on family after the war. This is something I will have to reconcile with those plans." He pulled a brief, nervous smile. "Not to mention, fighting Meesei to prove myself, knowing that she will not hold back, is a terrifying thought. I'm doubting that I'm ready."

[hr]
The wrinkled frown of the man at the door did not so much as twitch. After a thoughtful moment, he tilted his head back, looking down on Julan. His voice was still level and dignified. "This is the Aetius residence, young sir, though I am confused by your claim." His head turned to glance at the stairs behind him and back to Julan. "The only child of the heads of this house is not old enough to have born one of your age. Though more telling is that she is not an Argonian. Are you sure you have the correct household? Where might your parents be?"