[ Viktor fears that his attempt to subtly set aside the first book did not go unnoticed, perhaps appearing ungrateful for such a thoughtful gift. Was it just fate that everything be tainted by his past misdeeds? The chances of opening to a quote about perfection... surely it couldn't just be cruel serendipity.

He traces a finger over the fungi adorning the cover in his hands, flashes of memories that weren't his coming to the forefront of his mind. Jayce standing atop the ruined Hexgate, exotic plant life spreading from two still figures at the epicenter. Viktor knows more about plants, yes, but the similarity between the colorful fungi on the cover and that arcane flora so closely tied with the older version of Viktor that he'll never become... ]

Thank you again, Jayce. It will be a good way to pass the time to learn more about the fungi of this world.

[ Looking down at him where he lies, he feels his chest swell with affection. Jayce had taken the time to find books that would interest him, to read their titles in a foreign language, and bring them back safely to Viktor. His emotions cannot be expressed through one glowing eye nor his unchanging face, so he reaches out a hand to rest on Jayce's knee. ]

Really. Thank you. [ It will be a good challenge to keep him company in the dead of night. ]