Pheres is only a few inches shorter than you, but he's featherbeast light: even when he leans on you, the only inconvenience is the way that your earring tangles in his hair. He's apologising muzzily, even as he latches onto your arm, but you can't blame him. He's unsteady as a particularly top heavy wriggler.

"Um," you says, frowning at Riccin, because why did they just shove him on you? The way he's clinging is making your skin crawl, and it has nothing to do with the heat. "it's alright."

Riccin claims that they're an Imperial Trainee as well, but manners are an important part of every course, and respecting your betters is the main focus. You're not sure if you really believe in the hemosystem, but you know better than to flout it.

Apparently, Riccin doesn't. There might only be two castes between you, but the fact remains: jade is past the limegap, and yellow is not. You would think that'd warrant a little respect, and tossing Pheres onto you without so much as a by-your-leave and referring to you as a trainee.. well, you'd never do that to Sappho.

(Mostly because she'd cull you. But also because you aren't rude.)

Trying not to let your frown deepen, you push the water bottle into Pheres's hands. "Do try to drink that, please."