Master Richard! Hunch's voice was not loud, but it expressed volumes of scandalized disapproval.Mairelon paused and looked up. What is it?You ain't going to just- Hunch stopped and looked at Kim. Not with 'er standing there!Oh, is that all that's bothering you? Mairelon looked at Kim and grinned. Turn your back, child; you're offending Hunch's proprieties.Kim flushed, as much from surprise as embarrassment, and turned away. I ain't no child, she muttered under her breath.Under the circumstances, that's so much the worse, Mairelon replied cheerfully.
In this excerpt from "Mairelon the Magician" by Patricia C. Wrede, Hunch expresses strong disapproval of a particular situation involving Mairelon. His reaction suggests that he holds traditional values that conflict with what is happening. Hunch's concern about Mairelon's intentions is evident, but he hesitates to voice them fully in front of Kim, indicating a sense of propriety that is important to him.
Mairelon, on the other hand, seems to take a lighthearted approach, encouraging Kim to turn away to ease Hunch's discomfort. This playful banter highlights the dynamic between the characters, as Kim's pride comes into play when she mutters about not being a child. Mairelon's cheerful response suggests a teasing relationship, which complicates the tension Hunch feels, creating an engaging moment of character interaction.
