Fragmented prayers rustled in Rowan's ears as he and Wren followed Loma through the crowd toward the Hall of Logic so they could finish their conversation in private. He was still able to block the intrusions out for the most part, but after skimming the excess Disorder from Wren, it was more difficult to focus than it should have been.
The people's excitement over the ceremony was growing as the appointed time drew near, and Rowan could feel it in the increased attention that was aimed his way.
Wren's magic warmed him through their clasped hands as he tried yet again to remove the poisoned energy that Rowan had just absorbed. Rowan gently pushed back with his own energy to prevent it.
The last thing he wanted was for Wren to give too much of himself so that he succumbed to his shadows, which Rowan knew without a doubt were barely contained.
