I did want at least a hint to show that Vaysh would have some peace, for him as much as for myself!! I'm not awed by Pell, but writing him at this early, early juncture of time, I felt he did help Vaysh out, and Vaysh helped him with Caeru's arrival. But that all changes over time. ;) I'm especially pleased you felt the interaction with Ashmael was cringe-worthy in its realism. He is in a very, very awkward position.

I owe my interpretation of Velaxis to your writing, m'dear! Though I can never write him as snarkily as you. ;)