[ the temptation is there, to see how much he would have to push and layer his illusions to hide his wounds. but the outsider has seen what is, and his opinion is formed. now, such an effort would only wound his pride further.

(he fights the urge to use his hair to shield the scars, or turn himself just-so to offer the healthy side.) ]

I am set in my ways. [ he admits it readily, watching the nug as she gives the (sodden, shredded) piece of cuff a good tug until the frayed edges give and she has a mouthful of cotton for her troubles. ] But we also lack in teachers. Most have gone West or passed to the Halls. Elves born now are not as capable of great Arts.