[As Eli elaborates, Arven quickly realizes how in over his head he is. He doesn't know how much help he can be. But can't he say the same for his experiences in the palaces? The best he can do is listen and try. Eli deserves that much.]

I can't begin to imagine the stuff you've gone through back home, or say I understand what it feels like to be in your shoes. [With a deadly condition like lycanthropy.] Heck, I was even one of those same people freaking out when you told me. But it was dumb of me.

[He gives another nudge, gentler this time.]

I don't think you're just a beast. I've only ever known you as Eli- the guy who helped Aubrey get out a deep, dark nightmare. The guy who cares about people. The guy who cares about animals, which is even more important if you ask me.

[It's an attempt to lighten the mood, but he also means it. He was annoyed at how Eli cozied up to Mabosstiff at first because they were butting heads, but as they've spent more time together, he's come to appreciate it. Even if they still butt heads.]

And yeah, I know I haven't seen you transformed. But I think at this point it wouldn't change what I think. Because I know you're more than that. Way more.

As for Garm... [He drums his fingers against his knees.] D'you think he came out of you 'cause of how you're talking right now?