And then he tells her stories. Myths he learned from his instructor. Fantasies he created himself, inspired by bits and pieces of others read in archaic books with crackling spines.

I have absurdly vivid dreams.

Is magic not enough to live for?

Most maidens are perfectly capable of rescuing themselves in my experience, at least the ones worth something, in any case.

The circus itself is my personal ideal entertainment venue.

The rain increases and umbrellas sprout like mushrooms amongst the graves.

I believe you have my umbrella" he says, almost out of breath but wearing a grin that has too much wolf in it to be properly sheepish.