Vax'ildan wondered if his own expression was similar to the awe Alcuin had shown for the plumbing, as he stared at the massive, elaborate tattoo that had claimed Alcuin's fair back. He'd had a brand of his own on his back, until not so long ago, to show whose property he'd been. But that had been crude and small and ugly in comparison to the stunning tree the boy wore.

"I should leave you to your rest," he said after a few moments. Yes, Vax was curious about the tattooing. No, he didn't think it was fair to make Alcuin answer such gawky personal questions when he was still a mess that looked as if he could fall over at any time. "But most of the residents here are friendly enough. And I'm in 204, only a couple of doors down. If you need anything at all."