Arrogant, too, Hild thought as her lips quirked into a small, private smile. Freddie certainly thought that a large part of Magnus' life was causing him pain. Perhaps that was true, but it showed a level of pride in self that Hild, in fact, appreciated. The gesiths of home were vain things; it was familiar and reassuring.

"Maybe not solely," she allowed. "But I can imagine that's part of the appeal." Her eyes flick over him. "You'd be fun to tease," she said, teasing herself.