Dragoncrest Cliffs soldier, take your time

Ephraim's status report is cute -- amusedly he says, "merci," thanking him genuinely for his offered observation. To answer his questions he says "oui, outside," taking a moment to stretch before beginning to walk towards Hougeda's exit. He pauses at the entrance, assuming Ephraim has followed him, and looks to the boy with a gentle smile. Ahead of them the redwood forest looms comfortingly, wrapped around the lake like a shawl. "Which way," he offers, allowing his young ward to lead their little expedition -- after all, the territory is safe, especially with his stalwart presence near.