[When Maia gives his answer, Csevet releases a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, and turns to look at him more directly. Eyes on his face, as he reads his expression. It seems to go beyond self-consciousness, what he sees on Maia's face and hears in Maia's voice, beyond simply being nervous to something like fear. He realizes, slowly, that Maia is afraid of his disapproval, of his disapproval in this.

It's utterly ridiculous, and for a moment, Csevet chokes down the irrational temptation to laugh, completely at a loss. What could Maia possibly have to prove to Csevet? What could he possibly fear from him, when Csevet thinks Maia is as close to perfection as anyone he's met?]

We understand.

[His voice is carefully measured, and he lets go of the railing, turning a little to face Maia more directly, his hip leaning against the railing, because he needs that support, right now. Everything seems surreal, unbelievable, and Csevet is aware of his every heartbeat, his every breath, and those of Maia, just as acutely.]

There are those, Serenity, who make no distinction between men or women, or even anyone who falls between the two, when experiencing attraction and choosing lovers. In our time, among both the couriers and the Court, we have met many such people, and we would reassure you that this inclination is as acceptable to us as any other.

[A slight pause, and he exhales again, eyes dropping, ears going red, unable to meet Maia's eyes.]

We would also wish to make an admission of our own, on this topic. It seems...unfair, to avoid discussing our own inclinations when asking you to expose your own. You see, we ourselves are attracted only to men, and so we hope that this sets whatever fears you may have about our judgement at ease.

[A pause, and another slightly troubled exhalation.]

We only hope that it does not cause you to think less of us.