Fortunately, this is precisely what a brick wall with arms is best for, and Simon catches him without thinking, holds him first for steadiness and then for comfort, gentle and firm. It's slightly difficult, unaccustomed as he is to having to avoid a faceful of magnificent antler, but in a situation that so clearly and urgently calls for a hug, he will make it work.

"But you can't help them like this now," he says softly. Not 'can't help them' period; it would be cruel to be so blunt. "Not by hurting yourself, or by tending to their bodies alone. And whatever happened then--whatever people said--it isn't true anymore. I know the living care for you now and want your help. I'm living, aren't I?"

He's just one man, and a new acquaintance at that, but already he knows the faun well enough to know how well-liked he must be among the other Mirrorbound. How could he not be?