"Is there anything else one can be, when it comes to courtship?" he retorts, still grinning. He sets the paints in the indicated spot--or close enough, anyway--and retreats a step or two to observe. Mostly to stay out of Varian's hair.

"Oh, yes. I suspect there is more than a little insight to be had, once I am through with my own studies. And speak to some of the parties involved, who might still remember. The False Patron among them." Though an opportunity to speak to Mother Mercy might require some engineering.

And he could certainly perseverate on the Patrons for much longer--he's chosen to join the Disciples for a reason--but Varian's excitement is contagious. A little surprisingly, to Illarion, but it's a pleasant surprise.

"Yes! What are you minded to try first?"