The question was not quite as shocking as to make Ariel breathe in liquid as before. But, by the way she chuckled nervously gave Rukeewei a confirming look, it was clear that it made her uncomfortable.

"We've talked about it at times," Ariel said, brushing a strand of hair from her eyes. "Each time, we, um...well, we are both very busy running our businesses. Perhaps if things get better, but not now."

Janius grinned. "That's nothing unusual. I had my own worries, but Kaleeth eventually convinced me after about...how long of trying?" Janius gave Kaleeth a curious smile.

[hr]
Gallus stared down Najan-Ja with a scowl. He listened to him, then to Yizan, and was quiet for a tense few seconds.

Although passive up until this point, Cuts stepped up to put a hand on Gallus' shoulder. "I think we had better leave, Gallus."

"I wasted my time here," Gallus muttered.

Gallus then huffed, picked up his gear, and walked around the house to the street with Cuts, not saying another word.