"Not like that." Of course Toska wouldn't understand, and he has to tell himself to be patient and actually explain. How else will the troll learn, after all? Especially if he's so determined to befriend and spend time around humans.

He shoves his hands in his pockets, frowning down at the snow and kicking it, sending a spray of it up into the air. "Miko and Leona.." he begins, and trails off, chewing the inside of his cheek. "They're brave. They're.. strong. They can handle anything life throws at them." He waves a hand, vague, face hot and teeth gritting. ".. I'm not. I'm afraid all the time, of everything. I can't even--" He bites off whatever he was planning to say, shoving his hands into the pockets of his coat and shrugging.

"Forget it." He gives the other man a sideways glance, changing the subject. "What were you doing here in the village, anyway? Other than scaring kids."