It's a bit startling to see him get so passionate about the apparent plight of the mages in his world only to see him get very motherly over the kittens, but she supposes that just because a person can be bitter about one thing doesn't make them bitter all around. Maybe they'd get that way eventually, if things kept going wrong for them, but they didn't always start out that way.

"You talk about these circles," which she's taken to be sort of like schools, "as if they're not for your benefit. Do they treat you poorly, there? Our schools have always simply been places to learn."

She takes the staff easily in her hands, though, half-pleased by the weight of it. "I can see why you'd like something like this for bigger spells. It feels very -- real, very powerful." But wands are definitely more convenient, and easier to conceal.