[ Abel truly has the heart of a romantic, doesn’t he. There’s something endearing about it, those innocent and almost childish expectations. It’s really too bad that strife regarding arranged marriages, at least any that he knows of, tends to be quite ugly.

Maybe, once he’s had a chance to collate his thoughts later, he’ll come up with something sweeter and softer to regale Abel with. A little white lie to entertain. It wouldn’t feel right to quash those romantic notions, he thinks, and he’s sure Abel would enjoy getting to chat about it with others. ]

I suppose I’ll have to give the matter some thought.

[ The reasons behind his own loveless life are a little more complicated, to be honest. More than just his duty towards a noble lineage he doesn’t care much for. But he refuses to dwell on those thoughts at the moment, not when he can instead watch Abel sulk childishly. ]

It can certainly be difficult working with an unreasonable superior. [ Theatrical pouting or not, those complaints sound valid, so his sympathy is sincere. ] And I would never condone the use of violence against a subordinate. I do hope you’re granted some more peace in the future.

But it sounds like you’ve served in your position for quite some time. I imagine there’s some difficulty arranging for a different position, then? Or is there something worthwhile that keeps you there?

[ He’ll gladly humor gripes and complaints, but it would be nice to know if Abel’s job also has its upsides, too. He hopes there are plenty. ]