Kell's words strike a chord Rhy refuses to acknowledge; he stares intently down at his own hands as he pours himself a cup of brandy. Then, after a moment's thought, one more for Kell.

Where his brother's voice has risen, incredulous and angry, Rhy's remains at a reasonable pitch. He walks back over to Kell when he jumps to his feet and hands over the glass before retreating to lean against the side of his writing desk.

"Whether or not you think it's better, it's what we have to deal with. The Singularity is the heart of magic in this world. As far as I'm aware, it's no more an entity that the Isle. You may think magic is beyond my scope, brother, but despite everything, I can read. I've been here longer than you have. I'm the one attached to the damn thing. Do not tell me what kind of discomfort 'we both' can tolerate. You're being an ass."