RP:Merry Meet Aevo
Part of the Vakmatharas' Jar Arc
Summary: Brennia meets SiDD's new friend, Aevo. The night does not end like anyone would expect.
Topiary Garden
Just like the covered walkway that leads to this garden and the other garden beyond that walkway, this topiary garden appears to be tended to with the utmost care. Shrubs and trees are carefully clipped so they’re shaped into various animals --winged creatures, mostly-- and even a few people of varying race. Children can be seen playing hide-and-seek among the massive plant sculptures, filling the tranquil garden with childish laughter.
Raucous laughter could be heard through the gardens as two males made their way up toward the Smyth College of Bardic Arts. "That's insane, dude! Like, a real demon?" One of those voices was all too familiar to any that had seen him before- The mohawked human known as Sidd. He was sporting his same old attire, complete with backpack and newly gifted guitar on his back. In the corner of his lips a cigarette stuck out, gently drawn upon now and again as he spoke to a rather large man, at least six foot three, on his right. He was large, bulky and covered in tribal tattoos all over- mostly. Anywhere but his head or face. He wore no shirt, faint scars visible on chest and torso; Tales of battles past. His legs sported a fine black celtic kilt, feet and shins wrapped with leather straps, and thin sandals to protect his soles from the harsh terrain of the land. His hands seemed protected by brown leather gloves with the fingers cut out, metal round slots of some sort decorating the knuckles. "Aye, matey. Real as ye can get. Real nasty bugger too. But we got'em n'tossed his carcass into a volcano." Sidd pops the cigarette between two fingers and ashes it along the walkway, earning a few disgusted looks from a couple passing avians nearby. "So what happened to your buddy, then?" The larger, tattooed man shortly replied, "Well. Ain't too sure, ye know? We sort'a parted ways after that. Miss the little guy n' I always be wonderin' what he's up to. Anyway, ye think this lady friend o'yours is gonna giv'me a job? Ain't too sure m'reputation holds itself all too high. Been way too long since I been notable 'round here." With a shrug and a bit of a chuckle, Sidd reassures the big brute, "It's cool, dude. Brennia and I are tight. She's pretty awesome, so I'm sure she'd be glad to help you out when I vouch for ya. Just, like, don't make me regret it. HAH." The stranger chuckles heavily and slaps Sidd on the back, causing the human to stumble forward a few steps. "Ye got it, pal."
Brennia would be a little more difficult to find on this Saturday evening and there may be distractions everywhere. Some of the students are putting on plays in the main hall while some are conducting defense training out in the courtyard and large plates of food being taken out to the picnic area for those students not afflicted with the solar allergy. As it goes Brennia has been quite stressed out lately and being a constant target anytime she leaves the castle has made her more of a recluse towards her students, but luckily they’ve got six other professors and counselor Dewfoot-Barrows to dote on them in Brennia’s absences. That hobbit, Dewfoot-Barrows, might as well live in essence with the structure of the college because she’s on top of welcoming newcomers as if she were waiting for them. A broad warm smile for Sidd and his new acquaintance, “welcome back Mister Sidd, dear.” Her words were like a huge hug and she would have probably been overlooked by the tall gentlemen, otherwise. “I’ll show you to Dean Smyth.” While on the way the hobbit asks, “whos’yer friend?” Winding their way through the castle they come across a pretty desolate corridor behind the kitchen and stops before a long gap in the wall between doors then a caresses of a marble statue depicting a beastly looking wolf with gold eyes. This opens up a secret door within the marble wall into the relocated Wine Cellar and the hobbit walks in before the gentleman till shes at a corner of the large cellar that looks like a training area of sorts. “Madame Smyth?” The hobbit inquires sweetly before the six foot two avain walks out from behind a beer cask and a quick smile for SiDD, “Sidn-” Every time, but she caught herself when she saw the shirtless mesomorph type man with him. Doing her usual and giving SiDD a warm embrace while wearing something along the lines of a sports bra and waist high leggings which also show of her own inkwork covering her body. Hair pulled up out of the way and she dabs her forehead and back of her neck with a dry towel before a tattooed hand was extended to Aevo, “Brennia, pleased to meet you.”
Wine Cellar
Exploring your way through the vast dormitory only a few find their way into the wine cellar. This cellar is fully stocked with any wine you could imagine from Chardonnay to Viognier and Cabernet Sauvignon to Zinfandel; all bottles neatly tucked into diamond shaped nooks which are carved into these golden walls and a plethora of racks. It is a beauty to behold. The room is only clad in a thin layer of rose gold. Find what you please and if it's harder drink you seek I would recommend the cabinet with the alchemical snake above it holding extra stilled scotch with light citrus, brine and smoky sweetness on the tongue. Maybe try the cabinet with the dragon depicted above it containing specially crafted whisky offering a rich burst of flavor, with a palate of soft honey and deliciously nutty toffee (strong stuff here, I do not recommend to those faint of heart.) Possible vampire? Try the bureau with the image of a bat offering many liquors with rare types of bloods mixed in them, I would recommend steering clear of the brandy in this one though. Venturing deeper through the maze of wine racks and beer casks until you come across deep purple drapes with an emerald eyed golden snake sewn into the fabric, for it's an enchantress's corner to dabble in her apothecary. Here you will find a myriad of any and every ingredient known to all Hollowites, rarity no issue, but the glamorous sight of all the decadent potion bottles against the golden cellar may entice one to give any a try to just see what might happen…. I dare you.
Sidd greets Dewfoot-Barrows in only a way that he can, index and thumb lifted into a gun shape as he pointed at the hobbit, "What's shakin'?" He recalled a brief meeting in the dining area when he joined the rest of the workers for lunch that afternoon, having noted that she was a nice lady. With her curiosity made known, Sidd chuckled and threw a thumb in the lycan's direction, "This is Aevo. Brought him out to meet Brennia. Aevo, this is ms Dewfoot-Barrows, she's a total sweetheart." The heavily inked, kilt wearing male offered the hobbit a miniature salute with greeting, "Aye lass, well met." As they entered through the kitchen and into the wine cellar, an offhand comment would be heard from the taller gentleman. "By Sven's balls, what a marvelous estate. There be much money put inta this place!" Part of the lycan's old ways with his former partner had him almost casing the joint out for things to rob, but he would quickly put those ideas out of his mind. This was a new chapter in life. As Brennia finally came into view, Sidd flashed a grin, returning a heartfelt hug in earnest. "Breeeeennnnniiiiiaaaaa! How's it goin' chiquita?" Aevo of course just stared at the woman, chest puffed out and a hand run through his hair to make sure it wasn't too out of control. "By the by, Sidd. Ain't tell me that she were a real beaut!" The avian's hand was taken in his, a half bow as he leaned in to gently place a kiss upon the backside as his icy gaze feasted upon her own. "No no, luv. Th' pleasure is all mine. Aevo. Aevo O'Connail, at yer service." This of course would come under the scrutiny of Sidd- There might have been a hint of jealousy on his face. Just a hint. "Ah hah, isn't he great?" the human asked Brennia, quickly putting ill thought out of his head. "I guess he's just gotten back onto the continent and looking for work. I told him I'd try and see if you could give him something to do? I mean, if you like, don't mind and all." Aevo released his grasp on the avian's hand and grinned, "Aye, lovely. I can get done whateve' ye need. I can hit things well. I'm real strong. I can cook. Clean. Amongst other things ya might need tendin' to." A bit of a brow waggle is set in motion. Sidd laughs and nudges the lycan in the ribs, "Dude, shut up. You're gonna blow it."
Brennia is no stranger to such come ons and no blushing or school girl tittering came from her in the flattery. Her kind smile poking dimples in caramel cheeks and showing off perfect pearly white teeth at the introduction, “merry meet, Aevo.” Her subtle Veretian accent showing in the name. At work the closer proximity the Lycan of course would pick up on his favorite scent coming from the avian even though her skin is a little dewy from sweat. Other than that he may peek that within the intricate tattoo pattern covering nearly every inch of her skin there are a plethora of scarring about her neck and one possibly familiar marring on her left trap from a Lycan. Striking liberty blues connect to Sidd’s in his explanation of why he’s bringing this man to the college and she places a hand on Sidd’s shoulder, “very generous of you.” A glance to the guitar strapped to his back, “are you enjoying your instrument?” A pivot on bare feet atop cool marble and she brings herself to the training dummy with two obsidian sai daggers stuck in the head and heart area. After pulling them free and giving them a spin she secures them back where they live, in a hidden sheath/holster between her wings and back. “I’ve always got use for anyone seeking employment.” His offer of cooking and cleaning amongst other things were met with a short soft chuckle, “as any respectable hundred and thirty-something adult should be able to do those things. Are you offering to be my butler?” A quirk of a brow thrown towards Aevo. She won’t be easily riled as she starts to stretch out a bit to finish her training set. Placing a foot on a nearby shelf and her torso leaning into her extended leg which just accentuates dangerous curves. “You could always help out at Rynvale theatre project if that’s where you’d like to stay.” A quiet moment for her thoughts as the stretching comes to an end and she walks closer to the pair once more when the secret door was closed by the exiting counselor. Eyes set on Aevo, slowly looking him from head to toe. Not in a suggestive or judgemental way but more of an analyzing fashion, “I try to conduct self defense classes once a month… I assume you’re a warrior?”
Sidd glanced between the pair before that touch to his shoulder had his attention solely on Brennia, his words tinted with excitement when she asked about the guitar. "Oh hell yeah! Been Playin' with it whenever I get a chance. Did I ever mention that you were, like, the best?" He grins at the woman in a cheeky manner, the conversation shortly interrupted by another boisterous fit of laughter emanating from the larger man. Those unnaturally icy eyes studied Brennia from head to toe, those intricate patterns receiving a more subtle admiration, something the lycanthrope would try to remember to ask her about later. For now, it was all about business. In his usual playful nature, Aevo said, "I'll be anythin'ye want me t'be, lass, as long as the gold is flowin'!" The pair were watching the avian closely as she began to stretch, the two perhaps sharing the occasional knowing eye shift toward one another. "Aye, I can do construction jes fine, if'n that's where ye need me most. I'm sure Sidd here can teach me a few things, or the other way around." Sidd was nudged and shot a wink, causing the human to chuckle. "Yeah dude, it'd be cool to have you out that way. Give Axton someone else to have a hernia over. HAH." When Brennia took her approach and made that assumption, Aevo immediately stood tall and proud, thumping his chest twice with a fist before slapping it against his opposite palm. "They call me an Arcane Pugilist, in fact. Fiercest of m'kind, lass. Born from th' spell blade profession." Sidd looked at the lycan curiously. "Arc- What?"
Brennia does actually blush a little at how Sidd says she's the best and returns in a cheeky manner, “you might have mentioned it. I don’t mind hearing it once more though,” their banter interrupted by Aevo and again his lingering gaze goes without comment for she's used to it. She placed herself to Sidd’s side and even swung an arm over his shoulders with the playful nudge to his chin from the other hand, “I think mon inconnu knows more than he lets on.” A smirk with her new nickname for Sidd and if he asked what that meant she would gladly tell him. Both of their attentions were back on Aevo by now, “sounds interesting, do tell.” She broke away from Sidd to walk up to a large cabinet with glass doors housing very fine liquors and wines which are all hand selected, “first things first.” With a subtle hum and wave of the hand over the lock it opens for Brennia and she opens it, “you gentleman traveled far today. Let’s get you some refreshments and dinner will be in a few minutes.” They probably smelled it on their way in, but now liberty blues set on the pair over her shoulder, “what's your poison?” Knowing Sidd, she reaches into the ice box next to the cabinet to pull free a chilled crystal and platinum accented beer mug so he may take a pick of any beer cask within the cellar. Whatever Aevo would want she would get from the cabinet before locking it once more and walking the crystal decanter to him. “Would you be willing to share some of your skill for defense purposes?” She was only had to look up at the large male slightly being naturally six foot two which is even further accented by her onyx wings peeking over her head. That sweet smile spreads across plump shapely lips once more, “I do understand if you would rather not share.” Stunning deep blues looking up at his, but being a charismatic woman - she knows what she’s doing.
Sidd laughs at Brennia, a gentle lifting of his shoulder to accompany his thoughts. "Some days, I guess." When she made separation to get drinks, the human focused his attention to the large tattooed man and waited for further explanation. Aevo reached into his satchel and removed a small silk bag, speaking idly while he did so. "Arcane pugilist. Fancy way o' sayin' I punch things with magic." His wily grin showcased those perfect white teeth, a simple 'whiskey' uttered to Brennia as he removed three rounded gems from the silk bag; One aquamarine, one crystal, and one sapphire. Click. Click. Click. Each was inserted into an empty metal slot on the knuckles of his right glove. "Y'see spell blades, we're an odd one. We can fight like warriors, n' we can cast spells like mages. But we be weak, y'see. Our magic ain't so strong. We just ain't been given the all divine gift o'th' gods. So we had t'improvise with enchantment. While we can't cast on our own in any strength, we can amplify our abilities by using objects or tools t'get th' job done." The decanter that was handed over, was taken in his left hand, the one that did not house those strange gem stones. "On my own, I could cast flame, or maybe even a minor form of chilling hands-" He samples this by causing the decanter to gently frost over with the latter spell. "But with th' right tool, we can form more complex spells that can rival even th' most wisest and powerful o' mages." The liquid housing was shifted to his other hand where he would look upon the whiskey with intent, crystals of ice soon forming inside of the decanter, just enough to cause a mass large enough break off and fall into the drink. When the showcase finished, the slotted gems each exploded into a fine powdery dust. "Seein' as I ain't much o' the sword swingin' type, these here gloves were crafted fer me to help me cast n' punch things with a special bit o' finesse." Sidd looked on, pretty damned amazed. "That is awesome, man! Wish I could do that. At best I can like, do this...." The human lifted one hand and pointed it at the training dummy, straining and grunting for a moment with great struggle. Suddenly, without physical contact, the dummy moved! An inch. "Sorry." he stated. Aevo would laugh in turn and shook his head. "Ain't nothin' t'be sorry 'bout. Somethin' ye jes gotta teach yerself, mate." Then Brennia would come into focus in the gaze of the wolf. "I'd be morn 'n happy t'do it, luv. I ain't been in too many scuffles lately, so th'practice comin' from teaching could do me some good, aye?" Suddenly, it might dawn upon the pair, avian and lycanthrope, why Sidd actually said sorry. Brennia herself would finally get a taste of Sidd's special scenting trait- yet this would be one she did not want to smell. Rotten, putrid, like spoiled eggs and sulfur; The smell would slowly creep up. It was bad. Real bad. The air would almost feel thick or noxious to breathe. Even Sidd's stomach churned from his special blend of eau de toilet. He had a 'I didn't do it' look on his face and he was as red as can be.
Brennia listened intently while finding herself a bottle of fine wine and even though she was doing other things she's gotten in the habit of multitasking, but Aevo would get the feeling she was hanging on every word because she has a way of making others around her feel important. “Okay, so let us do a trial where you work with Sidd down at the theater and once a month you and I demonstrate melee attacks along with their counter attacks?” She had a feeling she’s to keep a close eye on Aevo until they get to know one another a little better, save for the female (possible male, as well) students catching major crushes. A raise of her chosen bottle to the lycan after watching his magic work in wonder, “and to keep from breaking too many hearts of students, maybe you can invest in a shirt?” She was trying to be playful in her suggestion until Sidd totally steals the show with this display of magical ability and an impressed half smirk adorns her expression. “See? You’re proving my point as we-” then it hits her… The smell and she covers her nose/mouth area while soft raspy giggling was taking over. A wing attempts to waft the smell away while she gently takes Sidd by the elbow to escort them out of the cellar. Playfully, she jests in a fake gag sound before theatrically saying, “back foul beast!” It was even funnier because she has wings like a bird, so - pun. She hopefully escapes with Sidd and Aevo in tow, “you two still hungry after-” An apologetic glance to Sidd, but she was still smiling and sort of giggling which is rare for her these days. In the better lighting of the hall Sidd would possibly notice her bloodshot eyes, but it wasn’t from herbs this time and he could assume she hasn’t been sleeping well, if at all. Brennia caresses behind the beastly marble statue of a wolf and the marble wall closes as if nothing was even there. She takes a deep breath of the fresh air coated in the smell of dinner as a glorious reprieve from what Sidd just subjected them to, but blue eyes went wide, “merde!” She realized she is not decent for the dining hall and her wings fold and tuck around her like a cloak, taking away the sight of her curvaceous frame.
Aevo 's face went from jovial jesting to absolute horror within an instant. "BY SVEN"S BALLS! What in th' hell is that?!" He quickly pinched his nose to fend off the odor. Here, he had been relaxed, feasting upon the scent of freshly rained upon forest, (obviously from Brennia) to smelling the ass end of the hellish beast known as Kaizer. It was most definitely worse on the lycanthrope, given his heightened sense of smell. "What in th' hell is wrong with ye? Ain't no way that be normal! Did ye eat bad clams or what, lad?!" Sidd was slightly embarrassed until Brennia began to crack wise. It made him feel a little better. "Hah. I did say sorry!" he threw out there. "Yeah, that sorta happens when I try to use the ability. Awful innit?" He looked to his avian companion with another apologetic sentiment in his eye, sheepish grin creeping upon his lips. Aevo, hurriedly following the woman, finally addresses her earlier offer with his nose still pinched. "Aye lass, I be up fer tha! Work durin' th' week, with a day or so t' teach defense. Right up me alley." As they finally got out of smelling distance, Aevo released his nostrils and snorted a few times, giving Sidd a playfully dirty look. "I can try t' find me a shirt, but I ain't gon' promise nothin', lovely. I ain't typically int' the things. They make me claustrophobic." Sidd looked into the dining room and over anyone present, notice quickly taken of Brennia's surprised outburst. He wasn't quite sure what the problem was, until he realized that they were in a classy college, after all. While the avian was quick to correct her faux pas, the human and lycanthrope probably looked a bit out of place.
Brennia had calmed down a bit from her giggling fit as they rounded their way to the dining hall, “you guys get yourselves a table and I’ll join you in a moment, after I get a real shirt on.” Her faux pas wasn't what she was wearing, but rather what she wasn’t wearing. She doesn’t care what their attire is and they might even peep that some students don't care either as they are pretty much donning pajamas. This would give the guys a moment to talk about… whatever it is guys want to talk about. Sidd might notice a familiar face, Eva, among the students and she attempts a flirtatious wave to him and his shirtless friend. Brennia would be around after everyone was already situated and once she finally joined Sidd and Aevo she had opted to wear her usual; waist high pencil skirt which had a silky sapphire blouse tucked into it - quite the librarian vibe. Just before the avian was allowed to join her company the insufferable Eva slides in front of her and those with good hearing and the intention of listening in could probably easily do so. She was canting her head to one side in order to show off vampire bites on her neck and blaming a certain vampire ex of Brennia’s, but her kind expression doesn’t change even when the ink pattern upon her skin seems to shift or twitch just for a second. She knows what really happened, but it still makes her a little jealous and all she replied while slipping around the five foot five human was, “that’s nice.” Long slender fingers smooth her hair back and off to the side as it was left down now and in doing so continued to expose the beginning of that lycan marring upon where her shoulder meets her neck. “Apologies gentleman,” she gives a smile to Sidd, “did you find your own room within the restricted wing?”
Sidd and Aevo make their way to a couple of empty seats at a nearby table, the occasional nod thrown to any onlookers from the current ongoing pajama party. Hazarding a guess, Sidd figured it was breakfast time. Eva was given a half smile and a salute to be polite, the larger of the two men elbowing the shorter, "Who's that tasty lil' morsel, Sidd?" The mohawked man laughed and replied, "Stay faaaar away, dude. Snooty upper class popular girl. You do't want none of that." Aevo didn't seemed to case, flashing the woman a subtle wink before he seated himself. "So, spell blade thing, how do you know if you're suited for that sort of thing?" Sidd asked, looking over the lycan's special custom made gloved. In turn, Aevo shrugged, "Ye jes sorta figure it out. I take it, yer not sure what t'make of yer little... special ability, aye? i'd be inclined to say that ye should head out t'Xalious way. They got a tower dedicated t'th arts. You could see if they can help ye figure out whether yer a natural, or if ye need tools. Although, don't ever be hopin' fer a hance at the Mages Guild if'n ye aren't a natural. They tend t'shun us types fer some reason." With Brennia's return, the gentlemen wave her over to an empty seat, only to watch as the interruption by Eva comes into play. it was easy to tell that there was tension between the two, Aevo muttering to Sidd with a grin. "Ice. Cold. Aye?" The human smirked and nodded, before Brennia held his attention fully. "Yeah, totally. Thanks for that, Bren. Comfiest sleep I've had in a long, long while. The staff have been great too." Aevo leaned over the table to get a view of the dark skinned woman as he asked, "So, oi, Sidd here, he ain't told me a whole lot 'bout yerself. What exactly do ye do here, Brennia? If'n ye don't mind me pryin'."
Brennia picked around at the food before her with her utensil as if she knows she's supposed to eat, but just doesn’t feel like it. The question is asked and for a long moment she was looking at Sidd with a subtle smirk on her lips, but eventually her confident stare meets Aevo’s own and her sultry alto timbre answers, “I am the head, or Dean, here at the college and the Headmistress of the bard’s guild. Most days I find myself buried in lessons or assignments I am to grade and contracts for guild performances,” a nibble of her food while she sort of wonders if that is more by choice these days. Keep busy. Keep distracted. Keep in motion. A subtle shaking of her head and she wonders if this macho guy would get this reference, “careful with the prying, I can be an open book, but I’m one of those thick books,” her fingers gage a random thickness of a book, “that once you get into it, you’ll not want to put it down.” It was a playful threat, sort of a dose of his own medicine with some wit backing it. She pours herself some of her wine after it had a moment to air and sips from it… Seems it’s ‘fruit(fermented) salad’ for dinner again. “If you don’t mind me prying, Aevo, what's the ink for?” Her gaze falls on Sidd once more, “I don’t think we've ever had the chance to talk about yours, either.” A knowing smirk for the danger and fun they’ve had thus far.
Sidd thanked the server who had brought his meal, not afraid to dive right in unlike the apprehensive avian to his left; And on that note, so did Aevo. "Head o' the College, aye? Well that's pretty prestigious if'n I do say so m'self. Fancy that, a couple of common workers minglin' with a th' dean like it ain't nothin' special." He let loose a hearty laugh, washing down some of his meal with a bit of whiskey. Her analogy of a book caused those wolven eyes to scope the woman out, a sly little grin fasted to his lips as he chewed his food. He opted not to overstep his bounds right now, lest he be fired on the spot. He noted something off about the woman, but Sidd was the first to ask, "Hey. You feelin' alright?" he had taken noticed of that tired look, and now that she had seemed to lack an appetite, he was a bit concerned. "You sick or something? You seem a bit off today." While awaiting an answer, he quietly returned to his meal, the casual side glance offered every now and again. "It's tribal, lass." Aevo soon spoke, in answer to her inquiry. "These inks are a right o' passage amongst me people. We get'em as we enter into adulthood. An' this.." he pauses to motion to a tattoo over the right side of his chest. It was a crescent moon with an elongated 'S' just to the left of the moon, that curled in on itself at the end. ".. is th' mark o' th' Fianna, the lycan tribe in which I hail from. What about yerself? What sort'o ink are ye sportin'? Heritage or fashion?" Sidd took his turn once Brennia made light of his own ink, his gaze dropping to the right bicep which housed a grim reaper looking mural; A few moths and butterflies scattered along the rest of the arm. "Dunno, really. I guess the bugs reflect the ugliness and beauty I find in myself. The reaper just symbolism for death. That or I just thought they were cool." he shrugged and chuckled.
Brennia let out a soft short chuckle, “when you’re a friend of my friend then there isn’t anything special about it aside from my guests. I’m just me, just Brennia.” She sort of tilts her head slightly when Aevo fixed her with a certain look and her own is a subtle blend of ‘I dare you’ and ‘confusingly unavailable’. At the concern of her own well being she smirked with a self deprecating shrug, “guy troubles.” Sidd knows all about it, mostly, and just at the moment she’s just having too tough a time to admit that the guy she’s been seeing, the one she chose (sorta) over her ex, hasn’t been seen since she asked him to move in with her. That old rejection wound freshly opened along with her ex hanging around has her sleepless and loss of appetite. If she were asked anymore on the subject she’d oblige or suggest they retire to a more private area of the castle when they are done with their meal and she simply continues to sip on her wine contently. She takes a moment to look over the inkwork on Sidd’s arm, “ugliness? I don’t see how that could be and that’s as good a reason as any.” A playful smirk remaining on her lips just as she crossed one tattooed leg over the other and a foot accidently grazed the back of Sidd’s own leg. Oh, right… She’s being asked about her own ink and deep blues fall on the pattern, “there is a island that only avians can reach, Vere. Not many people know much about it, but on this island we have sort of the same tradition with tattoos and markings. The larger and more intricate a tattoo is adorned upon a family, the higher their rank is in society.” They could easily assume she was royalty if not in line to be the ruler. “It begins when we turn thirteen,” they both could then infer from that bit of information that she must have a saints value in patience and high pain tolerance due to this. If that’s not bad enough, “the ink is usually imbued with magic to make them last as long as avians do and every year until we are twenty the ink is layered over again and again to ensure it’s longevity.”
Sidd reaches for a pitcher of orange juice that had set before them and pours himself a glass, not quite in that mood for alcohol today. "Ah hah, right. Well, if you need another round of psychotherapy with doctor Sidd, I got your back." A wink is dropped and he lightly nudges the woman in the side, but he wouldn't press too much further just in case she really didn't want to talk about it. Aevo had caught that look from the avian and grinned his wily grin- The brute always liked a challenge and never seemed to fully take a hint. "Haha, I don't know. We all got that side to us somewhere." Sidd stated upon swallowing the last of his meal. Sliding the plate away, he leaned back in his chair; The foot gracing the back of his leg wasn't paid much attention. Either he did not notice, or most likely, he did not mind. When Brennia went into explanation of the artwork that graced her flesh, both men took a deep interest, with Sidd mimicking her own action of grazing over the intricate work in study. He would reach out and gently run a finger along a pattern gracing her arm. "So, yer upper class then? If'n I'm t'understand the work that ye got, at least. Are yer parents royalty o' some sort? Are ye loaded?" Aevo did not know the word tact, whatsoever, which caused Sidd to give the guy a 'what is wrong with you’ look. Although, Sidd couldn't be too judgemental, given he's probably done the same thing, if not worse at times.
Brennia smiles again at Sidd and his kind words, “I’d like that.” A glance to Aevo as she wonders what he would do in the meantime as she’s certain a man that she assumes him to be would bore of Brennia talking of her guy troubles. She places her wine down and begins to fiddle with a masculine looking ring dangling just above her cleavage upon a gold necklace. The ring obviously isn’t hers and at Sidd’s mention of everyone having an ugly side she was sort of staring off at nothing in particular, “that’s true... “ She was more thinking of her own ugliness in that agreement and without filter in her train of thought she said out loud in a near mumble, “things were so simple when I only entertained open relationships.” A few blinks when Sidd was tracing the ink on her hand as he brought her out of that train of thought… Mostly, but probably rather continued it. Her grin was slowly coming back because she's usually the one initiating things like that, but she doesn’t comment on it because she doesn’t mind it, not from him. It took a moment to take her eyes off Sidd to address Aevo’s questions with confidence, “Countess ruler of Vere.” She did notice the expression on Sidd’s face and brought her hand to place top his in a way that said ‘it’s okay.’ She continues, “My parents and younger brother were murdered,” real buzzkill stuff, but she’s so numb to that fact anymore that she said it in almost a bored tone before sipping on her wine once more and forgetting about the ring dangling on her decolletage. The only innocent in that story was her brother though, but this would explain her large inheritance.
Sidd stared upon that ring when she spoke; This was truth, yet anyone watching the guy might have thought he was honing in on her dirty pillows. He wasn't though. It. Was. The. Ring. The avian's words hit him, and the human would finally settle upon her face, a confused look turning his expression. He did not say anything though, as Aevo addressed her next words with apology. "Oh, lass. That's terrible. I am sorry t'hear that. Ain't meanin' t'bring up any sort'o sore spots." Sidd chuckles, "Smooth move, dumbass." The presence of Brennia's hand atop his causes his attention to shift briefly, yet with no sign of protest. He was fine with it, really. "Watch it, runt. Y'know I'm bigger n' you, aye?" Aevo quipped with a joking scowl. "Wutch it roont, yerno I'm bigger den yoo, aye?" Sidd repeated in a mocking tone. This would earn the mohawked human a swift punch in the arm, just enough to feel it in the muscle. "Prick!" the human called out with laughter, slugging the lycan in the side with his elbow. They had only known one another in such a short time, but it was easy to tell that they were going to make a great pair of pals. "You guys wanna get outta here?" Sidd asked finally, noting that all had seemed to be done with their meals. "Like, is there a better place to hang out, or something to do around here?" The secondary question was obviously meant for Brennia, given this was her turf. "Aye, I'm fine t'take a hike if'n ye wanna." the lycan replied.
Brennia set her glass back down, gently, “no worries, Aevo… Only one of them didn’t deserve it.” It’s cold to say and things like this has made her callous at times, but it’s still nothing compared to what they’ve done to her. The ink… for starters. She watches the exchange between the two with a smirk and soft chuckle, “you’d think you two were kin.” When Sidd suggests they go out she tries to give him a knowing look, like ‘you know they are out there, right?’ She wasn’t about to be a party pooper though and will be their tour guide, “it’s Saturday night? There is a practice Blitzball game at the Glorious Arena. I’m sure some bards are putting on a concert at the Grand Amphitheatre. There is always the Schezerade Tavern. And the Hot Springs next door, but Sidd would have to promise no magic using.” A smirk in her playful teasing, “other than that there’s a myriad of gardens throughout the city. You gentleman pick.” She sips her wine with a half quirked brow at them wondering what they would choose, would they pick what she assumes they would? If they choose separately who should she tag along with? Aevo seems he should be supervised, but Sidd is… Sidd and she’d love some time alone with him.
Sidd seemed a bit confused, and that very confusion would be vocalized as he asked, "What in the hell is Blitzball?" The human figured it to be some sort of sport or another, but what did it entail exactly? Aevo laughed at the kin remark, soon to catch something out of the corner of his eye. There was a small group of avians off near the hall that seemed to be occasionally looking his way while letting loose the odd group giggle here and there. "Aye, y'know what? Y'two go on without me. I think I need t'go pluck me some feathers off some delectable spring chickens." The hound looked to the two with a big grin and rose to his feet, "I'll find ye later, Sidd. Nice t'meet ye Brennia. Thanks fer th' hospitality, luv." You could almost hear a squeal as Aevo left, his voice sounding out toward his destined targets, "Aye ladies! Who wants t'meet th' big bad wolf?" Sidd laughs and turns to Brennia. "Dude is somethin' else, eh?" His juice was finished off and he wiped his mouth, shoulders rolled as he thought about their destination choices. "Well, I've been to the tavern already. Never heard of Blitzball so that could be rad. Concert could be cool, too. Although I doubt we'd be able to talk much. And Hot Springs? Don't think I've ever seen one before." He knew of the dangers of going out, but didn't seem too worried, exactly. He was already sore from the sucker punch the day prior- evident by that dark shade of purple coating the left socket. He was ready to scrap if needed.
Brennia answered Sidd just before Aevo got a chance to leave “Blitzball is a contact sport played in the air on a large field. Two opposing teams take turns trying to take the game ball to their end of the field and through hoops.” (basically american football in the air) Now Aevo was leaving them and she cautioned him, “careful. When you take a feather from an avian’s wings it means either courtship or an intent to harm… So, tread carefully.” A wink to him and his quest with a wave goodbye, “pleasure meeting you, Aevo.” She studied the black eye on SIdd for a moment and didn’t want to comment on it around the other guy, “he didn’t do this did he?” Possibly a glint of anger in her deep blue eyes when she gently caressed the skin near his blackened eye, but that’s Brennia always the caring one. She started to stand up and push her chair in before waiting for Sidd to join her and linking her arm through his which naturally brought her black wing to rest around him. “The Hot Springs are where one goes to soak their sore muscles in a large pool of very hot water in minimal clothes, if any at all.” They were passing through the large main hall, passed students gathered by fireplaces and idly playing their instruments, “where are we off to Sidney?”
Sidd 'huhs' when the game is explained, the parallels to something familiar from his home immediately drawn. When she made light of his stupid battle wound, Sidd laughed and immediately sedated her fear. "Him? Nah. That dude's cool. It was some drunken douche-canoe out at the Barrel. Some dude named Nic gave me a hand with those jackasses." As he rose, he hailed over one of the staff and politely asked if they would store his belongings; Guitar and backpack handed over so that he didn't have to carry them everywhere they were to travel. With arms linked and that wing almost a protective barrier, Sidd felt like the cock of the walk in Brennia's presence. He never really thought he was above anyone else. Hardly. But you know that he reveled in those jealous looks he would get from time to time. "And yo. By the way, thanks for givin' that dude a job. I just met the guy last night, but he seems like a good dude. Honest hard worker type. Hah, and I dig the personality. Reminds me of someone I knew back home." His steel blue eyes traversed the rooms connected to the hall they walked along, taking in all of the interesting things and people he could spy. Upon that final question, he would chuckle and say, "Hah. Right, I forgot. Uh, I mean, if you don't mind those hot springs sound freakin' awesome right now. Could probably use a soak and relaxation after yesterday."
Brennia shrugged slightly, “if he’s good in your books then I trust your opinion,” was all she said on the subject of Aevo. “Well, luckily it isn’t that far.” The door to outside opened into the cool night air while they walked through the small garden leading towards the Rock Linked Entrance which is mostly hidden in the topiary garden. Of course it isn’t a private space and at the moment there is no one within it, but sometimes students will retire there with different intentions of relaxation. Along the walk she was rather quiet until she noticed no one was in the hot springs at the moment, “hm. There are usually a few students here.” A shrug before leaving Sidd’s side so she may lift a towel from one of the shelves carved into the marble walls and make her way to a bench so she may begin to remove her clothing. A glance to Sidd wondering if he thoroughly understood the line they could possibly be crossing here and she’s not even entirely sure she cares at the moment. She leaves her bralette and underwear on while tying her hair back up into a ponytail, but only doing this to see how much he’s going to be revealing. All the while she was talking as to not make this seem like such a big deal, “you think it’s typical when a woman is forward enough to ask a man to move in that she will go weeks without hearing a word from him?” The reminds her, she unlatches the holster on her wings and slips free what they hold, the daggers and the small pouch attached to it. She reaches into that pocket and pulls free what looks like a palm sized golden compact, but when she opens it and see’s it’s still just a blank mirror she frowns, just a little bit. It’s like if you go to check your cell phone and see you have no missed calls or text messages. She carelessly tosses the compact on her neatly folded pile of clothes before finally looking back at Sidd.
The Hot Springs
Stepping through the carven archway you are greeted by a seemingly natural spring of elaborate manufacturing. Hand carved rock and stone line the pool in a semi-circle, the polished rocks looking as if to be placed there naturally by the hand of a higher being. Upon closer inspection one would find the quality of stone to be much more impressive than previous glances allowed. Ornately carved into the stone are phrases and images of unknown identity. Most likely being connected to Schezerade, or perhaps an even earlier realm of Avian origin. Aside from the intricate stone is the main piece of the area, the hot spring. A delicate mist of greyish tint floats lazily atop the crystal pool below. The water producing a low, humming buzz indicating its relaxing heat and invite patrons in for a relaxing dip. Various linens and robes rest across a wooden rack to welcome the damp patrons into fresh, clean clothing. As you turn to leave it becomes clear that such a lavish spring is fitting for such a fine city.
Sidd was enjoying the short journey to the hot springs, there was always so much to see and discover on the campus of the College; Hell even the marvels of the Avian craftsmanship impressed him to no end. Her observation was met with a simple expression that indicated his cluelessness, taking a moment to check out the spring for all its worth. It really did look like a nice relaxing spot, a place he could just unwind after a long work week. When he noticed it didn't take long for Brennia to start getting undressed, he awkwardly chuckled and stated, "So, uh. We're just gonna get undressed aaand alrighty." He seemed a little uneasy at the idea of stripping down himself; Not that he was a prude, or bashful, but he wasn't quite sure how it would seem to any that would happen to venture into the area. It was a public place, after all. You're just friends, Sidd. It's cool. Relax, he continued to repeat in his head. As his shirt was removed, he managed to look over at the dark skinned avian, eyes wide as he froze on the spot. "Holy craaaaaap." he grunted to himself through gritted teeth, low enough that she probably wouldn't have been able to make anything out. Quickly the human turned away to let her do her thing, pants soon to be the next thing to get tossed off to the side. He was now down to his skivvies, a pair of cotton boxer shorts, but those were to stay on he decided. Public space. And, okay, maybe he was just a little bashful. "What?" he asked, suddenly stunned by her question. "Hell no. That's totally not typical. I mean, when you're at that stage, typically you don't go a day without hearing from someone you're with. Though, I mean, that's my culture and all. I have no idea what sort of things society is all about, around here." He shrugs, and finally summons up the courage to turn around. As he caught her looking into the compact, he chuckles to himself and starts to head toward the water; Only to come out of his shell when she too finally looked his way. "What do ya think? Can I be a model?" He asked, placing his hands upon his hips and sashays into the spring itself where he admits in a startled tone, "Whoa. That's pretty damn warm!"
Brennia have him a concerned look, “are you alright?” She heard his swearing and grunting and she had just went to unlatch her bralette, but thought better on it since he’s opting to stay modest. It’s not entirely different from when he saw her in the Whaler’s bar, but he could definitely see how nearly every inch of her body was covered that tattoo. She was easily smiling at his confidence once more and played along tucking her bottom lip between perfect teeth with a wink. “You’ll be all the rage in fashion and every woman will swoon in your presence.” She fans herself in the theatrics before lowering herself down into the hot waters to join him… Although she kept a respectable distance while their metaphorical line started to blur. “Yeah, but once you get used to it, it will feel good,” she settles down on one of the carved ledges within the pool that act as benches. Wherever he ended up she would look back to him, “maybe I just asked too much again?” She recalls back to their heart to heart about exes, “also been sort of cooped up in the college and trying to remember my training because of the frequent attacks.” So he could assume since the last time he saw her outside the castle was the last time she left. “I don’t know. Seems kind of silly to care about when I’ve got a politician trying to tear me down and the secret organization after me… Maybe it’s just not in the cards for me right now.” There was that chilled undertone to her sultry alto once more.
Sidd waved off the notion that anything was wrong. "I'm good, I'm good." He would find himself a seat in the spring, not too far from Brennia, just enough distance to keep things semi-casual and plutonic in a public setting. It still wouldn't stop the guy from scoping her out in full, each intricate pattern of ink closely followed in his gaze. A laugh was let loose at her effort to play along, the sentiment definitely appreciated as he felt himself ease in her company. When the conversation turned to her current plight, he tried his best to be attentive. To offer words of encouragement. To at least let her know that she had a friend to confide in. "What? hell naw. I mean, you didn't demand it or anything, right? If the dude didn't want to, he would have said no?" As the hot water began to soothe his aches, Sidd's face took a blissful state, his ass sliding forward on the bench so that he could submerge himself up to the neck. "Oh gawd, I'm never leaving here. Ever." he mused. No, stay focused, man. The confession brings upon a look of empathy, eyes closing to let himself slip away in the bubbling warmth as he tried to address her issues. "That's crap. So you got some assbag and an organization of turds houndin' you. Doesn't mean you can't like, be happy with someone you care about. Not unreasonable or silly to care about something like that. Sometimes you just want, or need, someone on your side, chicky." Steeley blue irises emerge from their brief stint behind a fleshy prison, shifting to take the avian into their grasp. "Where is the dude? Does he travel a lot or like, what? You'd kind of think with all that's going down, he'd be hanging out here with ya or at least keepin' an eye on things." he shrugged. "I mean, not trying to badmouth the guy. have you talked to him at all about this stuff?"
Brennia let out that rare raspy giggle, “good thing you’ve got a room here in town, too,” she said finding herself inching a little closer as they are falling more comfortable in their conversation. “At least I’ve got you on my side,” seeing as a lot of her friends have virtually disappeared or having their own issues at the moment. His other questions were answered after she slumps down into the waters as he did, “he does, but he usually tells me when that happens… The mirror over there, it works as a magical communication device. He’s a tinker mage and can make these innovative contraptions.” She glances over to its spot on the bench on the other side of the room, “it hasn’t had any activity for nearly two weeks now.” Eventually she leaned her head back to rest on the towel behind her seated spot, “I never have demands. I just want the simple things. I was really nervous to appear before the senate during their summit, last thing I said to him was that I’m nervous and would like it help. Nothing. And before that I hadn’t seen him for three days since I asked him to share my room with me at the castle.” She still couldn’t help smiling, though as the anticipation of them being interrupted by students completely left her train of thought. Could be any moment now they are intruded. “Sidd, you’re the best. You really know what to say... You’re a pleasant surprise.” Her head tilted so she could look at him out the side of her eye.
Sidd slips beneath the surface of the spring and takes in the serenity of its natural soothing power. He would take a minute to soak his head before re-emerging and coming to sit up as he had before. "Hell yeah, I am. Dude, you got me a guitar. I'm on your side for life. A long as, you know, you don't try to murder my ass." He never thought Brennia would ever so something like that, but the whole idea was a 'been there, done that' situation. In reply to the mirror device, he frowns slightly. "Maybe he's got bad reception? Or like, maybe he lost his?" He didn't really know what else to say, other than something to try and reassure her. "That really sucks. Maybe when he finally shows up again, you two should like, go out for a nice dinner and just talk. Y'know? Air your grievances and see what can be worked out." Sidd reached out and placed a hand upon her shoulder, an action of support, just to let her know things weren't that bad. When he finally let go, he started to laugh, his next words aimed at her compliment, "Yeah, I know it. Coolest cat in town. Though, I gotta tell you, I make this crap up in my head. That's how awesome I am." There's a teasing grin that appears before he adds, "Anyway, appreciate the vote of confidence, though. You're pretty great yourself. You've been a real good friend. Someone that makes this whole... situation I've found myself in, not all that bad. Plus, you know, you're rich. So that's why I really like you. Free goodies." A gentle shove would indicate that those words were definitely a joke.
Brennia nods at his skepticism, “possibly, but maybe it’s just not in the stars.” Her smile softens and becomes sweeter while looking into Sidd’s cool blue eyes when he called her a good friend, “thank you, Sidney.” But Brennia! Good friends aren’t half naked in a hot spring in front of their friends. They definitely aren’t giving them a far off look into their eyes or looking down at their lips. Brennia’s deep blues traveled down to Sidd’s lips anyway and she found this quiet moment soothing when she started to lean into him, but footsteps being heard of giggling students raised alarm just as he was joking around. By happenstance she was going to stand just as he went to elbow nudge her and just to make this awkward moment even more so he got her in the tit. She was smirking and giggling at his joke while her cheeks had turned red in embarrassment “ouch, call a lady a good friend then elbow her in her chesticles.” She teased while long legs scale the pool wall as she was quick to tuck her towel around her and quickly pick up her items, but in the rush she accidentally dropped the Echo Sepia and nearly bumped into the few students.
Sidd was extremely quick to snatch back his arm, a very surprised and apologetic look plastered on his face. "Oh damn! My bad!" he called out surprise. He would relax when she cracked her joke, his own cheeks flushed with awkwardness. As the sound of giggling came out of the blue, the human's attention left Brennia and traversed to the open archway where a few bodies would appear. As the avian gathered her belongings, Sidd looked a little confused, wondering if he too should get out and gather his things. When two of the students made their approach, Sidd noticed something awfully strange about them. Their hands seemed to be marked... with a certain familiar tattoo. It wasn't until one of those 'students' came up behind the human and wrapped his hands around the man's mouth, a razor sharp dagger pressed against his throat, that Sidd realized who they were; The aggressor’s companion squatted down next to the water and gave Sidd a look that told him not to say a damn word. Three others were nearing Brennia, a woman and two men, the latter of which quickly locking onto the Dean's arms to prevent her from fleeing. "My my, what do we have here?" the woman asked, in a sultry seductive tone. "Headmistress Smyth mingling with a lowly human in the hot springs? How scandalous." The woman was around Brennia's height, pallid in complexion, with grey-feathered wings. Her emerald gaze peered out from behind blonde bangs, red painted lips sneering at the dark skinned avian. "Could you imagine what this would do to your reputation? Of course, we could always... remedy that." she stated, looking over her shoulder at Sidd. The man that had the human locked in place, pressed the dagger harder against the mohawked man's neck.
Brennia struggles in the grip, towel falling free and when the grey winged avain came nearer Brennia hocked a loogie in the woman's face. Once that lands she would place her weight in the captor's arms for support when she sends two kicks up, uncaring if she wasn’t connecting the hits for it all was just a distraction. Her hand attempted to reach for the masculine ring dangling on her neck, but couldn’t get to it, “merde!” She whispers to herself before she looks over to Sidd with a sadness in her eyes when she mouths the words, ‘I’m sorry.’ Since her captors have her hands behind her she could at least reach the one part of tattoo that looks different from the rest in the shape of a lock in blue accents. When her fingers pressed to where the lock was inked on her skin something…. Different happened. All of the other ink on her body swirled as if smoke on the caramel skin, her eyes blackened, a grey streak formed in the front of her hair where her bangs are and the wings in such a vibrant onyx shade actually became onyx stone. This was something taking over Brennia, but still looking like her (mostly). The weight of her stone wings crush her captors and a sickeningly sweet voice doubled with a harsh whisper, “I can always… Remedy this.” Quick as a whip she takes a couple feathers from her wings which are sharp like arrowheads at the tip and sends one between the eyes of Sidd’s captor while the other held up to the neck of the gray feathered one. An expression upon her face that can only be described as manic release when she grinned a sharp toothed grin at the woman, “tell me now… Flewminati, why is Brennia a target?” At the same the woman goes to reach for that failsafe vial, but this creature's hand crushes the vial holding hand within her own, “oh! No, no, no, love… Drop it,” the bardic powers of persuasion worked immediately on the woman just as her gaze went to the other two behind ‘Brennia’ when the creature whispers, “they won’t help you.” As she already felt they got up and with one short simple melody the two men crumple back to the marble floor in agony after a few loud crackling sounds were heard. “We must do this the hard way? Lay down with your head just there,” The woman obeys with her head dangling over the edge into the water and the creature using Brennia straddles her, “now. Why are you after Brennia?” The woman doesn’t respond and Brennia begins holding her head back under the water before bringing her back up again, “will you tell me now?”
Sidd was sweating profusely in nervousness, although one might simply attribute it to the steaming waters of the hot spring. He did not struggle nor fight, the metallic edge of the weapon at his throat giving him great pause from even moving a single finger. He honestly thought he was a dead man. that is, until Brennia seemed to just... snap. He watched as she seemed to transform into something else. Something he hadn't seen before. The parallels to the woman he once knew were just too uncanny. Here was this sweet mild mannered woman, and now she looked like a raging monster. Not that he'd think any less of her, but still. When that feather thrown pierced his captor's skull, Sidd immediately cried out, "WHAT THE HELL!?" Then, when the guy slumped over and onto his shoulder, he cried out again. "WHAT THE HELL?!!" Then, as blood began to seep from the wound and cascade down his chest, turning the water around him red- Sidd threw up both hands in a disgusted way, face mimicking the action, and he gently pushed the corpse away from him and took two steps to the right, searching for the stairs. "What... the... hell." Finally out of the water, Sidd quickly begins to get dressed through the commotion, finally stopping as he watches Brennia inflict a little water torture on what seemed to be the ringleader of the group. He was starting to go a little pale, mostly from the shock of trying to process what was going on. Then, from outside the cavernous archway, a loud explosion could be heard, a flash of green and orange lights flicking off the walls. There could be heard the sound of some sort of commotion, and then, out of the blue, a body comes flying into the room, sliding across the floor a good fifteen feet. And behind it? A familiar hulking tattooed shape. "There ye both be! What've ye been doing?! Did ye not hear the ruckus?! There's been an attack! Lots wounded, a few dead. We're sure we got most'o 'em, but there are city guards here now on alert, lookin' fer any remaining culprits!" The lycanthrope finally deciphers the scene at hand, one brow coming to lift as he spied Brennia drowning some other woman and Sidd just standing there in shock, covered in someone else' blood.
Brennia | Raven was really having too much fun just as the woman sputters out through hot water, “Vermillion Draft wants you out of this city!” Black eyes meet the structure that is Aevo and Raven grins again when the swirling ink pattern of her own sort of flickers. Just like Aevo looked at Brennia before, this looks like a challenge. Raven brings her face down close to the woman, “I am not Brennia you dumb little twat.” The dagger at her throat once more, “I am the Raven. Maestro of chaos…Bitch.” The sound of the voice sticking like gum in the ears in a twisted seduction of sorts and by now the ring leader under her was whimpering, “okay, okay. Raven, what do you want?” A slow chuckle vibrates the air, as if too close to a speaker at a concert, “is Vermillion Draft one of you?” A fear spell being laced within the words and since she didn’t speak right away Raven has no qualms with drowing her a little more. When she slides her back up the woman was yelling and screaming before the feather dagger was at her neck, “what is he to you? Why is Brennia a threat?” The woman was squirming, “they’ll kill me... “ Raven yanks on her hair to bring their gazes together, “looks like that’s about to happen anyway.” Tears mix with the water on her face, “he’s a Primary Brother and… And she's a threat to our society with the filth she's welcoming into Schezerade, but mostly because she’s been considered a candidate for S-senate.” Raven quickly inserts the dagger into the woman's neck which decorates her own dark skin in deep red, then in two flashes she did the same two the paralyzed men. She stands before Sidd and Aevo in that bralette and underwear with a smirk upon her blood splattered face, “you boys. Will take Brennia back to the college, there she cannot be harmed. You will look after her until she wakes back up and after today you will not speak of this to anyone.” She fixed them with those black eyes as if she’s reading what’s written on their souls, “nod if you agree to these terms.” Once they did Raven stands before Sidd and brings their faces very close, “oh… You’re very anxious and I love it, but don’t worry.” She would raise her hand as if she were going to caress his cheek, but barely hovers over his pale skin, “you’re off limits.” With that her eyes return to that deep blue and she seems to have returned to normal, but she’s weakened and she begins to fall if someone doesn’t catch her half naked self.
Sidd was afraid of this incarnation of the woman he had come to know, his eyes betraying this fact to that strange persona that called herself Raven. The extra murders caused the human to look away, while Aevo, not bothered by any of it, made his way across the spring to come to rest next to the human. "So ye've got a dark side, aye lass. I knew there were more t'ye than meets th' eye." the lycan spoke, a sly grin forming. However, Sidd wasn't having any of it. He was once with someone who had a dark side. And this whole situation took him back to a place that he really wasn't ready to remember. As Brennia's hand lifted, the guy recoiled slightly, unsure if he were to be next on her kill list. The demand and slightly threatening tone got nothing more than a nod out of Sidd, Aevo instead ushering a salute. "Got it cap'n." As the presence of the darker self vanished, Sidd was quick to catch the woman, using all he could to keep her from crumpling onto the floor. "What in Sven's balls was that all 'bout, kiddo?" Aevo asked. "I-I don't know, man. I didn't like it. I've never seen that before. i think... I think I pooped a little." This would cause the lycan to burst out in a fit of laughter, soon wrapping one arm around the avian's legs and hoisting her up out of Sidd's grasp and onto his shoulder. "Watch out pipsqueak, I got'er." Relieved, the mohawked man nodded and began to gather everything they had brought, "Thanks man.. appreciate it. Come on, I'll show you where she crashes." He had never actually been to her quarters before, but he knew the general idea. When the trio arrived back at the college, Sidd would be greeted by that familiar hobbit, Dewfoot-Barrows. "Mister Sidd! By Sven! Is she alright?!" He nodded. "Yeah, she passed out. I need to get her to her room, wanna point me in the right direction?" It wouldn't take long before they were finally in Brennia's room, the avian gently placed upon her bed so that she may rest and regain her strength. Aevo thanked Dewfoot, while Sidd kind of just stared at the woman in disbelief. There were so many questions running through his head. So many fears. Yet he would not leave her side. No, instead he would do as instructed, to wait and watch over her, even if that meant having to crash on the floor just to make sure nothing happened to her.