Vax paid him a small smile, for that. He was hardly the first to cast stones at anyone for the profession they chose. He didn't begrudge Alcuin for making his living in such a way. But it was good to know he hadn't felt as if he was obligated to offer himself either.

"I didn't mean to make you blush," was what Vax ended up saying apologetically. "It's hardly your fault this place seems so backwards to what you're used to."