She shook her head. "I am inclined to think there are purposes to all the schemes of this place, but none know them yet, unless the frustration of its victims somehow makes them more appealing to its palate."

Hearing the concern in his voice touched her. Only he would turn his thoughts to her welfare so soon after his own arrival, when most would still be struggling to come to terms with their new surroundings. She smiled fondly and rested her free hand on his knee.

"I have been spared, for the most part. Worry not, Melamin." She paused, a little hesitant. "But I would speak with you of what the castle has taken from me." As she spoke, she reached out with her mind, brushed it gently against his, asking permission for an intimacy she would have once assumed. She would prefer not to speak of this openly.