"Colin," he says quietly, stopping where they're walking and reaching out to put his hands on the young man's shoulders. He can hear the panic building up and doesn't want him to torture himself.

"Please breathe. In and out. You're not alone, and telling people made you less alone. It wasn't a mistake and we will figure this out. We've two non-mages who know that something is going on and are seeking to help too, but they will not get your name. My husband and Warden Skraeddar know of myself and Inessa and are willing to help for the two of us alone. Please trust me when I say isolation does not help."