[Silco noted the glare, but far more of a loud statement was the fact that Richard didn't deny his commentary. It was another reason for the younger man to be grateful for a father that had declared him male and allowed him to exist in that circle. After all, what kind of life would such a rigid society allow for someone who had to explain themselves to anyone. He suspected Richard would have been at great personal risk if not born to that particular father.

The punishment was an interesting choice as well. Public shaming was rather common in most societies, but branding? That was something he had not come across personally.] I see. What determines if witchcraft is involved or not? I assume they have to be forced to perform their acts of magic?

[He did not deny his physical limitations; he wasn't a hammer-wielding hero. He didn't take up combat readily, and he could be called a scheming conniving man. He didn't deny any of it; no, he owned it. He embraced the monster that he was, and perhaps all of Richard's claims would also come to pass in time similarly.

Silco noticed. The smile, the very subtle tonal shift, the look of brief longing. Richard had never spoken of anyone in such a manner before.] Someone you are close to, it seems. Perhaps you see a small amount of him in me then. [He also took what he wanted unapologetically.] Does he know of the secret you hide and accept you as I do?

[He remained where he was, watching Richard approach the strawberry patch. His gaze moved around the greenhouse to make certain that they still remained alone.]