"People are not for things."

"I- uh, no, of course not, sir." It's quick, glib, placating in its way, and there's a sense that Parafi's disagreement is more about where he fits in terms of 'people' than because he disagrees with Teronmas.

"Which, includes you. I also you don't need to call Teronmas 'sir'."

"Or feel like we are going to snap at you at any mistake... I mean, it's not good that you feel that way, but it's not your fault. And we won't snap."

"I- uh. Yes. Sor-" He stops the apology, not sure he should continue it when they seem to think it isn't his fault.

"You are learning!"

That gets a tiny smile. (He liked doing things right, even if they are confusing.)

"So, do you still want to learn sorcery?"

"I- yes? Please?"

"Cool. Anything specific you wanna learn? We mostly know defensive or healing stuff."

"I uh, defensive stuff? Would be-" (Good, nice, reassuring to have...)

Teronmas will take the seat next to Parafi if he doesn't mind. And either way, he will pull another notebook and start teaching.

No that's fine-

And once he starts teaching, Parafi seems to forget about the proximity. He proves a diligent and eager student.

Would Parafi appreciate if Teronmas taught him the theory behind a fire ward?

Ooh. Yes please!

So here it is. This bit does this, and that one does that, and to make them work together? You arrange things like this.

Oh, that makes sense! Thank you!

Lets see if Parafi can figure out how to complete this other ritual. There are two steps missing, and they are in this list of ten sample steps.

(It's okay he is not able to, Teronmas is no teacher.)

Parafi frowns as he tries to work it out. He manages to get one, but not the other, although the flinch when he admits defeat seems more reflexive than expectant.

Teronmas checks. "It's okay. I should've tried something easier."

He pauses, not entirely sure how to take that. "I- which one was it?" he asks after a moment.

Teronmas nods. "It combines with the other component and that component over there. It's how the ward is closed safely."

He nods. "I- yes. I see it now."

"You did good. Let's move to the next exercise?"

He smiles and nods eagerly.