"Together they are like despair, hmm?" he repeated, just a bit amused. "In that case, I shall give you something good."

He considered for a moment, and then glanced around. He shouldn't, but there was no one else around and he didn't feel like getting out of the water. He doubted Cole would be bothered, at least.

The Medicine Seller shifted so he was facing his medicine box, and gestured. The bottom drawer opened, and something flew out into his outstretched palm.

He offered the small cone of incense to Cole.

"I have been told this kind smells of warm spring mornings," he explained. "Perhaps it will help keep the gloom at bay."