"I can teach you what Kilída taught me. He was first among the Birds when first I came to the palace. He was very strict that we must clean and care for ourselves every morning and evening. At the time I found it unfair but it has become so engrained in me I can't imagine not doing it."

He listens with a soft smile, massaging Emcee's scalp before reaching for the finishing oil. Emcee will certainly notice how much softer his hair will be for the next few days.

"He sounds lovely. A big, gentle protector."