[ Essek indeed had read clearly the desire, but also the honour there; the overwhelming honour not to disrespect Essek Thelyss with his thoughts; the first time he'd kissed-- it had been with salt water in Essek's lungs, a raw primal survival instinct. The second time had been in a darkened room covered by the haze of evening that had led to Bren (although he did not blame Essek, he was to blame for it as he himself had initiated it).

The second time had been in a dream that had been shared between them. It hardly counted, but one that he took as a fairly telling rejection in and of itself. That Essek did not want him? Oh, that was absolutely no surprise to Caleb and his insight would never be that great when it came to other people in regards to himself. ]

I attempted to warn as many people as possible of the pollen; I think that something designed to take away agency is best approached at least willingly and with full disclosure consent.

[ He was treading water now, trying to keep himself from looking in Essek's direction though perhaps his eyes strayed ever so often within the direction, just a furtive sideways glance here or there. ]

I am glad I could assist in preventing you from being entrapped by Pheme, ja. That's what friends do.. they help each other.