[Another shock trilled through his seven-foot frame, shaking him to the very core. Tremors of tension lined his throat, which made it difficult for him to swallow, let alone breathe. He wanted...To express...To say something that might facilitate warmth and kindness, but the shepherd felt strained, even weary, despite his so-called fortitude. The moment he'd crossed over from Midian, it was deeply ingrained in him.

Affection..While he gave it freely....At times he found it difficult to receive, especially from the man in front of him. But for the sake of sanity, if nothing else, he clasped his fellow clergyman's hand firmly, slowly lowering in front of him on his knees.]

Ah'd give ye mae life, ef ye asked fer et.