[ It is a rather rare thing to do, though it's not as if anyone had stopped them either. Thancred knows why it's not encouraged — the Queen and her court want the Summoned to feel reliant on them. He straightens his shoulders and gives a quick nod. ]

When another companion from home came through the well, we determined that if we pooled our earnings together we could likely afford a small flat. I'd rather not lean on the kindness of the castle if I can support myself.

[ It's as simple as that. Some might see it as a waste of hard-owned coin, but he enjoys having a slightly less tight leash. ]

Shall we? [ With that, he moves over to the front of the store where Thevan is manning the desk. He's a warm, kind sort — enthusiastic about all the books here, as well. ]