Humans want things from Nam. Gifts, blessings, anything they can take. That's just how they are. Gaja is the one who visits him, who brings offerings wanting no favor in return. They weren't always friendly. They're still not always friendly, but these days their slights and insults are laced with the affection of an old friendship.

Gaja's lashes fall, leaving only a sliver of those dark, gold-flecked eyes visible beneath them. He cants his head into the touch, soft little trill bubbling up.

"Who are you and what have you done with my cranky crocodile?"