A little puff of laughter was had at Tedrick’s statement that he also wouldn’t be able to promise his roommate that this wouldn’t happen again, in the hypothetical little scenario the dragon had tossed out there. ”Just be mindful not to become too attached.” Kehaw honestly meant that, but he posed the words with such a tone that it came off as cocky and playful- as though to imply, because obviously who couldn’t? in an overly exaggerated/ jokey way or something like that. He had no desire to ruin the mood with something more earnest than that, and well, he wouldn’t have done this to begin with if he didn’t genuinely believe that Tedrick’s attachment to him was unlikely to strengthen in any way. If anything, he’d change from someone who was casually fun to be around, to someone who was casually fun to be around and a good lay.

”In my experience, decidedly not.” Remarked the elf when questioned about the differing roommates, raising an eyebrow at Tedrick from his spot on the couch. ”Did you not see?” He was confused, for a moment, about how that would work- that is, until he recalled once asking Tedrick if he shared the bed with his roommates and, as he recalled, the shadow had told him he preferred to sleep under the bed.

Such a peculiar habit.

Tedrick seemed to thrive on social interaction, if he’d left the room without even looking at his roommate- well, it certainly added more structure to the theory that they’d both been out here for pretty much the same reason. Trying to clear their heads of all the shit from yesterday.

Distraction successfully obtained, for the moment, he could see that eagerness in the Shadow’s eyes to go and see who he’d left back at his dorm. Hahaha, he could understand that~ ”Yes, with haste, they may yet be the soul that makes you seek to settle down into being a house-creature- should that be the case, you wouldn’t like to let them believe you’ve abandon them on your first morning.” Clicking his tongue and shaking his head a bit, the elf waggled his finger at Tedrick as if to scold the shadow for the horrid abandonment he was causing to his roommate. ”So awful, so rude.” The flat tone was very clearly fake, as was the scolding in general.

He’d let his eyes flutter closed when Tedrick leaned in to kiss his forehead. ”Fare thee well, roguish creature.” Kahkewistahaw posed in an overly formal way, playfully posh as he waved a hand as though dismissing the Shadow from the space. ”Do enjoy the rest of your day!” He’d call to Tedrick’s form as he reached the stairs that would lead him out of the central spiral- the posh character broken for a more honest farewell. He’d leaned over, resting on one arm, to say that farewell. With Tedrick now out of sight, the dragon yawned again, snuggling back into the couch and closing his eyes. Was there a chance that someone could end up just drifting here and finding him there naked? Sure, but it was highly unlikely and with his luck, he generally didn’t worry about stuff like that. So, he’d take a much needed nap. It must have been around the morning bell proper that he woke up. Had it been a couple of hours now, since talking with Malice and leaving his dorm?

”I should eat…” He’d whisper to the air, groaning a bit as he got himself up and dressed. Everything was a bit easier in this magic water. He was kind of dreading leaving the dome, where things would inevitably feel heavier. Ah well, there was nothing for it. He’d managed to make himself eat at least a bit last night, but he was aware his body wouldn’t do well if he didn’t have some kind of proper breakfast now.

Haaa, he'd had some messages, perhaps he should check those... that needed to be done, yes? It also postponed getting up just a little longer.

Text to Elle:

I hope the morning sees you well. I am most glad not to have seen you yesterday! Do not fret, I do not mean I grew tired of your face, how could I? It's so very expressive~

-sigh- No, what I mean is that there was some horrid event yesterday, and that you weren't there, I trust, means you were safe. I do hope you find yourself in good company, and for that matter, much easier company than I was/have been.

If you wish to talk, I will be around! May it be truly strange should we be strangers.

Well, that was done. Time to get up, huh?

So, fully clothed (if his like, half of a shirt at best counted), the elf made his way out of the magic pond, perfectly dry and with his pending meltdown put into a needed snooze. He’d make his way to the cafe, walking slowly as usual, and taking some stops to rest in the woods along the way. Damn, he kind of hated Tedrick when he imagined how fast the shadow must have made it back to the main campus area. Still, even if it was a slow but steady kind of deal, the dragon would eventually arrive at his destination. There, just about to enter, was a now familiar face.

”Alistar?” He’d call out to the purple haired woman, lifting a hand in a brief greeting if she turned to face him. ”Also seeking sustenance outside the dorm this morning?” Kehaw would ask with one of his charming smiles. ”Would you care for some company? I may be utter garbage at closets, but in my natural habitat? Hah, well~” The words poked fun at himself without ringing out harshly for doing so, the dragon playfully claiming the cafe as part of his ‘natural habitat’, motioning to it as he said those words. Inviting Alistar to have breakfast with him seemed a risky move to take for his precarious mental state but- he did truly want to get to know the woman more and, given his luck, he believed she’d largely leave the topic of yesterday in the past.

It was Jinpachi’s loss that he chose to not take her up on her offer, but she did respect him a bit more because of it. It happened but was rare for her to find someone who didn’t take advantage of the offer.

The next morning she woke and looked around the dorm. It was a bit different but the person she saw in there with her was familiar. Well huh… Niels had picked her too? Wasn’t that sweet. For a brief second she wondered if he was becoming attached to her but she doubted it. Getting up she headed into the bathroom to get ready for the morning. Once she was cleaned and groomed she got dressed and bid Niels goodbye if he was awake. She was in the mood for exploring this morning and wanted to check out the café she had seen and heard about. Heading out the walk to the café was rather nice. It gave her some much needed time to mull over the previous day.

Entering she took a moment to look over the menu and was considering what to get when she heard her name. Amber eyes blinked and she turned a quizzical gaze in the direction of the voice. A thin elegant eyebrow rose and a grin spread over her lips as she let her eyes travel over the owner. ”Well good morning handsome.” she chuckled at Kahkewistahaw’s comment and waved back to him. ”That I am. Didn’t feel like cooking or waking the roommate.” she turned and dipped her head to him. ”Of course. It would be my pleasure to enjoy your company once more.” the smirk never left her face as she laughed turning to worker in the café ordering. A hot caramel macchiato with cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing. ”I don’t know. I think given some time and practice you could be phenomenal at closets.” she gave him a teasing look before waiting for him to order if he was going to. ”Booth, table, or bar?” she asked looking around at the open seats. ”I really don’t have any preference myself. I imagine with your height that a table or the bar would be more comfortable.” she hummed to herself assessing his height again. It was nice to be around someone who actually made her feel short. With a chuckle to herself she nodded to his bare midriff. ”Interesting choice of clothing for someone who doesn’t invite physical contact. It looks good on you though, or should I say you make it look good?” she pondered the question briefly. It wasn’t like she wasn’t dressed in a somewhat similar fashion. Her own midriff bare, the scar from the wound she had entered into the school with, a pale white in contrast to her darker complexion. Then again her skin was littered with thin scars, some more faded than others.

”Oh ho? I shall be left to ponder what such a mastery would look like.” There was a puff of a chuckle also had at the closet comment, the dragon not missing the teasing look; he didn’t at all mind the teasing or implicatations. ”You are not wrong, in this instance, my preference would go to tables. There, by the window?” A gesture was made to an empty table that seated two. After yesterday, interior spaces still felt a bit… claustrophobic. Just a vague discomfort that crawled around under his skin that was easily itched at by such simple measures as being by the window.

As they made their way over to the seating, there was a bit of a chuckle from Alistar before she commented on his attire. Golden orbs took to a more amused almost Lilac color as the dragon glanced over at her. ”Both statements ring as equally true~” Kahkewistahaw didn’t shy away from compliments. For as difficult as his body made it to put on any weight, or any muscle- for as much of a struggle his body was- he still very much liked himself. Whatever other issues he had about himself, self-image ones weren’t included. ”I have had some truly fascinating discussions about attire during my time here. I’ve come to find that many other worlds have more, mmmmm rigid guidelines on the topic than my own.” It took a moment of thought to find a suitable word, the pause taken as they arrived at the table. What he said was completely true. To the elf, there was nothing overly ‘sexy’ about the way either of them dressed, because such display of skin wasn’t all that uncommon in his world- which wasn’t to say he didn’t think Alistar looked good- he just didn’t think of her clothing it in that connotation; of being an invitation to say she wanted physical attention.

The elf took a seat and ordered something that was along the lines of a properly well balanced breakfast before continuing on with his thoughts. ”What think you? Do our clothing shout sex appeal? Should children be averting their gaze?” There was amusement laced in the words but nothing like judgement. It didn’t seem as though the dragon was offended, nor that he meant any offense by it. In truth, Kehaw was curious about her thoughts, and the topic was also a nice one that escaped the events of yesterday.

”Truthfully speaking,” He leaned forward on over the table, as if he might whisper a secret, his tone falsely serious which would soon be cear, ”I very nearly regretted this outfit, I found myself outside and it would have been dreadfully cold if this cape did not function well as a fashionable carry-about blanket.” True words, considering the elf very easily grew cold. He’d have honestly been miserable out there if his mind hadn’t been too all-over the place to process the cold on his way to stumbling into the pond, where it had been warm enough- and on the way back? He’d kept moving to stay warm and wrapped his cape about himself when he sat to rest. With his luck, there generally managed to be a nice patch of sunlight and a stillness so no breeze froze him over. That aside, it wasn’t the main take away from the fake-whispering. ”However, you may not have been the first to take some visible skin as invitation to touch.”

It was by the end of that sentence that the feigned seriousness of his tone melted away to something more teasingly amused, allowing all the implications to dangle there as he sat back properly in his chair and took a bite of his food. He knew his choice of clothing wasn’t a major factor in Tedrick choosing to sleep with him earlier this morning- although after hearing Alistar mention it, he did wonder if it played some small part to the Shadow, or if Tedrick didn’t care about such things? A nice piece of puzzle to properly fit into place some other time. After swallowing it down, he made a gesture at himself with his fork, ”To be clear, I am in no way devoutly against all physical contact. I am, as you’ve seen, particular about whom I would have touching me though. I do hope you will not take that in any way personally; it just takes me some time for someone to feel comfortably familiar.” He didn’t care to explain why he didn’t like unfamiliar people touching him, so he hoped Alistar wouldn’t ask about it. She hadn’t yesterday.

Laughing softly Alistar shrugged. ”I imagine lots of hangers to be involved.” she couldn’t help but chuckle more. It was nice to be able to enjoy someone who could banter and not take things so seriously. Looking to the table he pointed out she nodded to him and followed after, pulling out a chair and reclining into it. Shifting so her back was to the wall and she could sit watching the people she let her eyes roam the café. ”Such a quaint little place.” she made comment finding the atmosphere to be enjoyable.

Alistar paid no mind to his eyes changing color when he spoke. She had seen some very unusual things with the people at this school and just figured that his eyes were one of his quirks. He did seem to take pleasure in her compliments, but then again she would give them where they were due. A soft chortle escaped her lips as he spoke of his discussions about attire. ”You mean the prudes or the nudists?” she laughed wondering which side he had spoken to. She personally didn’t care too much about how people dressed. It solely depended on how much of the package they were hiding.

As their food and drink were finally brought to them Alistar would thank the waiter before taking a moment to visibly enjoy the smell of her coffee and savor the drink. Almost purring as she took her first few sips. Picking up one of her cinnamon rolls between her thumb and middle finger she would bite into it licking the icing from her lips with a satisfied smile. Quirking an eyebrow at his question she bobbed her head in thought. ”Hmm.. I suppose so. I wouldn’t say a child should avert their gaze. There’s nothing that revealing, but for some it does allow them to admire our forms more than what they are used to. Where I’m from I would use similar outfits to attract attention.” and in certain situations manipulate people to her advantage, but she didn’t see the point to telling him about that.

Leaning forward as he did she giggled at the level of conspiracy that he was portraying. It was rather adorable. Hearing his admission she burst out laughing before covering her mouth and smiling at him merrily. ”I apologize. I am not laughing at you, but more with you. It’s good to know that a man can understand the woes of a woman when she’s expected to wear something revealing and it’s so cold outside.” Finishing off her roll she shifted once more in her chair, sticking her legs out away from the wall and crossing them at the ankles as she made herself comfortable. ”And here I thought you just wore that cape because you realized how dashing it made you look.” Winking at him she picked up another roll and bit into it. Snorting and rolling her eyes she pointed at him and then waved her finger away. ”People never understand that it’s ok to look, but you must have permission to touch.” shaking her head and making a tsking sound she finished off this roll as well and licked her fingers clean of the white icing. Grinning she took her time with the icing before taking a drink of her coffee.

Pondering over the creature in front of her she found amusement in his company and that in itself was a glimmer of light in her drearily boring existence here at the academy. His explanation made her tap the rim of the coffee cup she held in her hand thinking. ”You say that, however. I would argue otherwise. While we hadn’t know each other long, I also had not presented you with any reason to think I would have harmed you in any way. In my experience, if someone is uncomfortable with you touching them they will shy away. You were downright trembling. I do believe if I hadn’t helped, you may have very well had a panic attack.” taking another long slow drink she shrugged. ”That’s your problem though and not mine. As long as you know your own boundaries and don’t let people force them then you can do whatever you want.” she waved her hand in a dismissive manner. His dislike of people touching him didn’t interest her in the least. The reaction was what caught her attention really. It was such an intense one and new to the unknowing goddess. Leaning forward she gave him an amused yet curious look. ”So tell me about yourself Kahkewistahaw. You say you are particular about people being close to you. Let’s see if I can win one of those prized spots.” She had no care if she actually would gain one but it could be fun and this felt more like a game now. So why the hell not?

”Average for their own respective worlds, I believe. Although, speaking to an extremist could certainly be interesting~” The dragon would muse as to the question of prudes or nudists. He enjoyed hearing all sorts of perspectives after all. It all could be so fascinating. When he considered the ability to speak to people from cultures across different worlds, Kehaw could sometimes forget how frustrating it was to be trapped in this prison. No matter how many times he lost himself in the possibilities though, he’d inevitably come face to face with his mortality and become spiteful all over again.

That was neither here nor there for the current conversation though.

As expected from her initial comment, it didn’t sound as though those in Alistar’s world wore such attire as the norm. Not when her attire was enough to be eye-catching rather than just a regular day walking down the street. He wondered for a moment if she found the kind of attention she gained this way as a salve for the negative forms of attention her father had focused on her. Was it escapism? Well- he wasn’t going to ask that straight away, but he’d hold onto it as a possible piece of the puzzle that made Alistar herself. People could be so wonderful with all their little quirks and the unique ways they thought based on all the factors in their life~ ”At my own home, such attire as what I’m donning now is not at all uncommon. It would be considered fashionable, but would hardly garner any pause and re-assessment on whether or not it was appropriate. The children would certainly ponder how grandiose my home was, then continue on with their games.” The elf offered the information about his home with his usual charming smile and a playful tone. He made the walking motion with his fingers across the table with little sound effects for a moment, to mime people walking on by. He didn’t feel like making it clear that he would draw attention despite his outfit back home though, being a celebrity just by the circumstances of his birth. He didn’t shy away from letting slip that bit of information that certainly implied that he was rich though.

“Expected” was an interesting choice of words. Well, Kahkwsitahaw had heard something a bit similar from Vivianne before as well. He managed to hold a straight face through Alistar’s giggle fit, but was soon chuckling himself when he finished speaking, dropping his conspiratorial act. ”Oh, trust that I am aware I look damn good in a cape, but the blanket thing must surely be it’s main purpose, as I am very capable of being dashing without it.” Putting a part hand over his chest, the dragon tucked a strand of hair behind his pointed ears with his free hand, batting his eyes as he played along with being gorgeous. He was being silly, but it didn’t stop him from also being legitimately gorgeous.

There was a frustrated puff that was given with the unknowing goddess made note of how people did not understand that touching was not simply permitted. There was a darkening of the color of his eyes towards a red for a moment. She had no idea. Still, it wasn’t enough to bring his mood all the way down, and his eyes returned to the lilac coloration as he waved his hand before his face, as if also brushing away the annoyance at the idea of people feeling entitled to touching him. ”Oh, I do not at all disagree; but all permissions were given.” He’d offer about his morning before taking another bite of his food.

Eyebrows raised when Alistar disagreed with his assessment of himself. A bold thing to do! He wasn’t scandalized though. Merely curious what take away she had through her lens of things. He had his own theories about her, it was only fair she had some about him~ ”I am not entirely sure what part of my explanation you are rejecting.” Waving his fork in the air, Kehaw’s eyes returned to a golden color as he started to tap his fork against his bottom lip in thought. ”Yesterday was hell.” He stated flatly, eyes narrowing a moment, ”I suppose, having seen me circling the pits of hell, it is only natural you may have come to see me as a victim.” Her words, after all, had a ring to them as if she felt the need to tell him to hold strong and not let people push him around under the pretense that he thought that was what he wanted. ”Rest assured that I am very aware of what I like and what I want.” Shrugging off her concern with an air of unbothered confidence, he took another bite of his food, humming along and bobbing his head a bit since he was in a fairly good mood.

When he swallowed down the bite, he’d motion towards her with his fork as he responded to her request to be close to him. ”Mmm, you are a wonderful acquaintance, and I do so adore people, but strangers are strangers regardless of how kind, innocent, or harmless they may appear; and acquaintances are only strangers one hopes to get to know better. To be at ease with someone touching me, they must be someone I trust and have familiarity with after some time- certainly not strangers. So if the closeness you wish is physical, then I do request, do not be shy of sharing about yourself either~”

Wiping at the corners of his mouth with a napkin, what with his meal being mostly finished, the dragon let out a little contented puff. He’d not really wanted to eat at first, but he’d pushed through and for the moment, he felt pleasantly full instead of vaguely disgusting- which sometimes happened when he forced himself to eat when he wasn’t feeling the best. Right now, he felt pretty good. There was still a little bit of exhaustion and aching that clung to him, that threatened to worsen and pull him down, but Kehaw wanted to deny that. Push it away, ignore it. He wouldn’t push himself. He’d take care of himself well and it would go away. It would go away and he’d be fine. He’d be fine. So, he’d just enjoy his conversation with Alistar and practice escapism. In that way, he remained in an amiable mood despite everything.

”You did ask first though, so what would you have me say about myself?”

Tipping her head in agreement to speaking to an extremist she mused. ”Interesting or very frustrating.” she had grown up with a certain level of extremist and knew how hard they could be to communicate with sometimes. Especially if you had opposing views. Listening to him explain the attire for his world or home she hummed in response, drinking more of her coffee. She caught the hint that he was rich but it didn’t even seem to phase her. ”Will you go back there when you finally leave this place?” she asked wondering if he missed his family. She of course had no love lost for her world and wouldn’t care to return there unless she was forced. ”So if what you’re wearing is considered normal, what would be considered inappropriate to wear?” that was new, what if covering yourself completely was the bad thing to do? Her amber eyes followed his hand across the table. A soft smile lifting the corner of her lips.

It was refreshing to meet someone else who at least knew they looked good and weren’t an asshole about it. She continued to grin and chuckle at him wiggling an eyebrow at his antics. ”You must make most people just swoon over your looks. Kudo’s to you for knowing how to work that skill.” she raised her coffee to him in a toast before motioning to the waiter to bring her another. He most certainly was attractive and Alistar wouldn’t mind a trip down that ally but given his statements about being touched she figured it was a far cry chance and wouldn’t press it. That didn’t mean she couldn’t admire him and still have fun in his company. After all it did seem that he had a knack for making her laugh and she liked that.

Lifting an eyebrow at his frustrated breath she looked at him curiously waiting for him to elaborate. Given context she would assume it was an agreement to her words about people taking liberties with touch. ”Were?” she questioned the past tense. She understood he meant about the fact that he had told her it was ok in their trial but it was something to tease him about now. ”Retracting the permissions now?” she asked him with a feigned hurt look before smiling at him again and laughing softly. ”I can infer what you meant. The offer will always stand. You just have to ask. I can intensify it, but since I was only trying to make you more comfortable, not aroused, I didn’t push the ability much. Everyone reacts differently to it obviously but I figured a more gentle approach would at least quiet your discomfort with being pressed so close to someone new.” most people may have taken offense to the fact that he had reacted that way towards them. Alistar didn’t think it was that way though. It seemed more just the act of being touched by someone new, not specifically her. Of course there were people who would be repulsed by her in a more sexual way just because she wasn’t their type and those people could go on their merry way because it had nothing to do with her.

When he stated that he wasn’t sure which part of his explanation that she was rejecting she hummed. ”The part where you are devoutly against all physical contact. Your reaction seemed too aggressive to not be that.” she shrugged and conceded that he was able to have physical contact, but only with those he had deemed ok. A point of pride made her sit back in her chair though. If he was so picky at least she had made him comfortable during his contact with her. His eyes changing colors did intrigue her but she stayed quiet about it. ”Agreed.” she huffed at his assessment of the previous day. Tilting her head though she furrowed her brows in thought looking just above his head at his antlers? She would have to ask him if that was what he wanted them called. A chuckle to herself had her glancing back to his eyes. ”I do not know you well enough to know if you are a victim or not. Do you consider yourself one?” she asked. All she had seen was a man who had faced a lot of challenges in his life. Shifting in her seat again she leaned her elbows on the table. ”I mentioned boundaries because it’s important for anyone to know where their personal ones are. I can tell you’re already comfortable enough to at least tell a others what you like and don’t. That shows a stronger character not everyone has.” she looked sad for a moment glancing out the window. ”I’ve seen a lot of people abused for not being able to voice their desires.” slavery after all was not uncommon where she was from. Frowning she shook her head dismissing the more serious tone she had taken.

Biting into another cinnamon roll she chewed with a smirk as he told her that she was a wonderful acquaintance. ”So you hope to get to know me better?” she wiggled an eyebrow and chuckled teasing him. His assessment did make sense and she looked down at her empty plate wiping her own fingers and mouth. ”Hmm…. I am not used to people being close in this regard.” hell, even Niels her roommate knew very little about her. ”I actually am the opposite of yourself. The idea of being emotionally or otherwise close to someone before being physically close is … uh foreign.” she laughed at herself shrugging. ”I do not need to have any other kind of connection to someone before having a physical connection. Mainly because I do not expect to ever see anyone again after having intimate relations with them. I am being forced to re-evaluate that course of action though because of this hell that we find ourselves trapped in.” picking up her coffee she cradled it in her hands enjoying the warmth. Thinking about what she wanted to learn about someone she had no idea. How would normal people get to know someone? She kept a smile on her face as she thought. Realistically she just thought of questions she would ask about a mark. So she started there. ”What types of things do you enjoy? Your age? Hmm…. I don’t know, favorite food?” she gave him an apologetic smile and shrug.

There was something dark that briefly flickered past the dragon’s expression when Alistar mentioned leaving this place. Kehaw still felt resentful for how easily that seemed to have rolled off of Malice’s tongue, and it was no better with the amber eyed woman before him. ”Were it my choice, I would never have been removed from my home.” Compared to his playfulness on the other topics, this phrase came off a bit curt; the elf not readily inviting further discussion on it.

The topic of clothing, however, held no such stigma.

”Outside of certain locales, visible genitals are not precisely street wear appropriate.” He’d comment with a bit of a deep chuckle, ”Although, common spaces for bathing or swimming where being entirely exposed is the norm are numerous. At least in my home city. We are hardly taken aback by each others various anatomy, but there still exists specific times and places for showing all of oneself.” Not being shy about his body had something to do with the fact he’d never hated his appearance, surely, but the other part was certainly culture based. ”Before arriving here, the concept of being ashamed of or scandalized by exposure to the physical form, or of there being a standard for how to dress based on gender? Completely foreign to me.” Kahkewistahaw made a motion like he was pulling something away from his eyes- something to symbolize that he’d had his eyes opened to it all. ”I must confess, some of it still seems rather ludicrous to me- but it is unendingly interesting to learn the peculiarities of other cultures, and the impact of which those cultural norms have on the psyches of those raised within.” There was that pure gleaming of curiosity to the dragon’s gaze that was so common to him. Kehaw did so love to learn, and if there was something he loved to learn about the most? Well, people, of course.

With a snap of his fingers, it seemed something had popped into the elf’s mind, ”I nearly forgot. There is another attire which is inappropriate at my home. Each nation has attire for those dedicated to the church for that nation's patron deity. Wearing anything which attempts to resemble the attire of the church of another nation would be nothing short of sacrilege. It is my understanding that other worlds have similar rules regarding religious or cultural attire?” Tilting his head slightly, Kehaw took another bite of his food as he seemed to eagerly await her answer. He wasn’t sure if her world was the same as some of the others he’d spoken to or not, but he did love to learn about those kinds of things.

At the playful toast that Alistar gave, the dragon closed his eyes and bowed his head, as if accepting the praise in reverence, with his hand over his heart. ”I deserve not your praise for I cannot help but to be beautiful- but I shall cherish it nonetheless.” The false seriousness to his voice melted away into a hearty laugh. ”Haaaaa, in truth, my pursuit of fashion is derived from the simple enjoyment of finding my reflection appealing. Should other people enjoy the view, well, a benefit to the world.” The sentence was ended with a snort and a shrug, the elf seemingly effortlessly treading the line between vain and self-aware as he sat there with that charming smile on his lips.

Now though, whyever was Alistar talking about retracting permissions, and yesterday? With narrowed golden gaze, Kehaw took some time to consider her words. ”Wait.” He’d provide, trying not to be rude in letting silence linger or just staring at her, but he needed a moment to retrace the conversation. They’d diverged at some point, just where had that been at…? He’d said she was not the first to think his attire invited touching, she’d said something about boundaries and not agreeing that he didn’t dislike all touch even though he’d just-

Ohhh.

”Hahahaaha~” Running his fingers through his hair and then tugging at the end of one of his horns, the dragon’s thoughtful look had melted away into an amused one. ”Apologies, you missed my joke and we seem to have diverged greatly from that point without my notice!” Aaah, and here he touted himself as a master of conversation, but even he could get tripped up by an impasse of misunderstanding~ ”Allow me to explain. Should we go back-” He waved a hand delicately in the air, counter clockwise, to symbolize going back, ”When I made mention that you were not the first to find my outfit to invite touch, I was making a jest as to the fact that I had sex with someone just earlier this morning. You implied this outfit invited such activities and I was playing along as I had been up to such antics, though it had nothing to do with my attire- it was nonetheless an amusing connection to make. Well- not now that I have needed to explain it, it probably falls quite flat now, mmm?” He’d muse, wrinkling his nose at the missed opportunity. ”Ah well~” He’d wave it all away with a hand, ”From there it was my understanding you implied I was unable to make the decision to be intimate with someone without deluding myself, and you assumed my talk of permissions and knowing what I like was about you. A true conversational mess~” Now then, was there anything else to do to properly be sure it was untangled?

”There is some contradiction between saying you know me not well enough to consider me a victim, yet also brazenly telling me that I am incorrect in my assessment of myself about where my comfort levels with touch exist.” There was no tone to Kehaw’s voice that implied he was upset about this in any way. Contrary to that, the dragon seemed a bit amused. ”Allow me to put this to rest, such that you will find no need to reach for your own conclusions.” He’d much prefer not to talk about it at all, but he enjoyed Alistar’s company, and it was going to be a pain if she didn’t understand. Anyone who knew him, knew he was particular about touch. He couldn’t be secretive about that. It wasn’t a secret. Not in the way his blessing and curse were. So… while he disliked having to discuss the topic because it was an unpleasant one and he wanted to live in a happier headspace after everything- he wasn’t completely opposed to going over it. ”For much of my childhood and still occasionally into my adult life, for reasons I have no desire to share, I have experienced people trying their very best to touch me. To just be able to brush their fingertips against me. To grab me. To obtain me. I hate it. I despise that they try, that I could do nothing about them trying. I loathe that seeking touch. Like the skittering of an insect across the skin, it lingers as a phantom, unwanted, leaving anxiety and itching frustration.”

Golden orbs had shifted to a red, the disgust which the elf had for seeking touch he spoke of was more than clear. There was a rage there that had clearly been fostered inside of him for a long, long time. ”Logically, I am aware that those here at this ’Academy’ have no reason to stretch their fingertips towards me in desperation; but that understanding does nothing to stop their hands from casting a sinister shadow. To have strangers reach for me feels no different now, whatever their intentions may be. Yet, I am not immune to the impulse to seek physical contact that is innate to most. As I said before, I am particular about the hands I will fall to. When I seek to touch, or to be touched, I go to those who I have grown to be familiar with. Whose hands and bodies feel warm and inviting because the consistent alarms at the back of my mind no longer ring in their presence, and I am able to feel at ease.”

”That is the truth of my relationship with touch.”

With that, he hoped to close the discussion on the topic- Alistar no longer making assumptions about him based on the one interaction she’d had with him prior that had put him to just about his lowest point.

”Naturally, it would be foolish to not have such a desire, no?” Mused Kehaw easily when the woman attempted to tease him about wanting to get to know her. He knew what he said, the implication that he wanted to get to know her had been made very purposefully. She seemed a most interesting puzzle, and a fun person to be around otherwise- her audacity was certainly something that could turn out to be frustrating at times, but thus far he’d mostly found it amusing. Alistar admitted that she had the opposite sort of relationship with touch to what he had. She was used to only having a physical connection with someone, and never having any familiarity past that. ”While bodies have their own charms, optimistically, the actions of this accursed place may have some small benefit of allowing you to witness just how fascinating people are past their anatomy~ Granted, the bulk of us are but beautiful messes that bring frustrations in equal strides to joy.” The dragon offered the words in a ‘well, maybe?’ tone, eyes having falled back to a gold coloration by this point, and his food being totally finished. He had no judgement for her chosen lifestyle, but being someone who enjoyed the complexities of people, he wanted to believe she’d enjoy getting to know people. Based on what he’d seen of her father, he could understand why she didn’t really have an inclination to get to know people.

It was with a little bit of struggle that Alistar fished for some specific questions to ask him, the dragon offering his charming smile in return to her apologetic one. ”I am a young adult, I cannot say for certain in years as I’ve not established if time moves precisely the same across worlds~ Mmm, I do not believe you would know my favorite food, but perhaps I could show you another time? As for what activities I find enjoyable- I am a social creature. I derive pleasure from being involved in the various goings on around myself. Also, the study of topics in or around the subjects of psychology and anthropology is especially interesting at this nexus of worlds. When speaking of this place, my favored activities must be meeting new people, spending time with friends, exploring new media in the library, and exploring the museum from time to time.” Placing elbows in the table and lacing his fingers together, Kehaw cradled his chin atop his fingers as his glowing eyes stayed settled on Alistar. ”And you? What sorts of activities do you engage with around here?”

Amber eyes stayed smiling at him as he said that if it were up to him he wouldn’t have been removed from his home. Realistically she wondered if he understood that while he may have wanted to stay in his home, others were begging if not choosing to leave theirs? That maybe he was here to show one of them that there were worlds worth staying in? She kept her thoughts to herself though. It was a topic for another time. Listening to his explanation about his home and the different places that they had for various states of undress did sound similar to what she had known. Except hers wasn’t in a city. It was interesting to hear about how his lifestyle had been similar to her own but so vastly different at the same time. ”Yeah the ideas and concepts of who should wear what and when is common where I’m from. So I can only imagine the freedom of not feeling that pressure.” robes and certain ceremonial dress were required at her home. What would it have been like to not have that?

Shifting to rest her elbow on the table she put her chin in it and only smiled at him amused as he snapped his fingers. She was very much enjoying their conversation. ”Oh yes. My home has something like that as well. Ra, our God and King is always so strict about certain traditions being followed. It’s very tiring.” she sighed waving her hand as if she were bored. Her smile returned though as he played along with her toast and accepted her praise for his charm and beauty. She did admire his laugh. It had a nice ring to it. ”It seems as though it is a win-win for everyone then.” she winked at him again finishing off her coffee.

The mood did turn a bit south though as Kehaw asked her to wait. Giving him a curious look she waited expectantly. Had she said something wrong? It must not have been that bad given his reaction. Again she was graced with that wonderous laugh and only shook her head as he apologized. She was surprised though when he told her that she had missed a joke! Her amber eyes grew wide as she thought about the conversation again. Watching his hand movement she shifted her long legs to curl under her and turned her body to fully face him, giving him her attention. If she had missed a joke, then she had not been doing a good job of listening to the conversation. Hearing his explanation her eyes went a bit wide and then a conspirators grin grew on her lips. ”Well now! Look at you staying active. I did indeed miss that one!” sighing with a smile she shook her head and sat back. ”Sadly, I’m used to those around me being used for…” she paused looking for a word. ”More nefarious reasons. So if your morning was indeed a good one, and by the gods I hope it was.” again she grinned and her eyes twinkled at him at him merrily. She was also a sexual creature by nature so she wasn’t one to begrudge someone else their more carnal pleasures. ”I see I need to strive to realize that people in this school have it within their means to speak up and say what they want. Most all of the ones I’ve met so far seem to be able to.” she said thoughtfully lifting a digit to her lips in thought. ”So please do forgive my self-centeredness. It’s experience that tells me to make sure those I’m with are willing.” she shrugged waving a hand letting the conversation change topics.

Feeling slightly rebuked she quirked an eyebrow at his blunt words. He was right, but also wrong. However, she wasn’t going to bother arguing with him. She was basing her assessments off of her own experiences and observations of him. There was only a small amount of information that pointed towards him being a victim and a lot pointing towards a drastic aversion to being touched. True that usually came from being some kind of victim in some capacity but it also could be an allergy or one single bad event. Putting her chin back into her hand she smiled at him and let him explain. He really didn’t have to but it seemed he felt the need. Honestly, what he had told her about their cultural differences had already explained quite a bit of it. Hearing his explanation though her eyes narrowed as his shifted to red. What he described was indeed similar enough to what she had thought of. It burned her to think that people thought it was ok to grab at others without permission first. She understood his frustration to an extent. She personally had turned to using her own looks as a weapon where others may have just laid back and taken the mistreatment. ”I understand a bit better why you reacted the way you did. You don’t have to say anything else on it. I hope that over time you can learn to trust that mine are offered hands, not grabby hands.” she tried to lighten the mood a bit. ”It is detestable that others would not gain permission to touch first.” her voice burned with a sort of fury at the last part before she shrugged.

”Of course. Why would you not want to learn more about my amazing self?” she chuckled letting the unpleasant part of their conversation die. She lifted both hands in a normal ‘I don’t know’ gesture as he told her that maybe the academy would allow her to get to know people past their anatomy. ”You’re right. Maybe it is. I just try to live day by day. Old habits are hard to break but I suppose we all have to start somewhere.” She knew that some of her habits were already breaking but that was more out of forced proximity and availability than anything. Thankfully they finally got to a bit more of the specifics and she was surprised to hear that he wasn’t sure how old he was. This was something that was very interesting for her to learn about and she hadn’t thought of before. At his offer of showing her his favorite food she dipped her head accepting his offer. Who was she to turn down food someone else would make? ”It sounds like you have found quite a bit to amuse yourself with here.” she joked smiling at him. With a sigh and a deep breath she leaned back in her chair glancing out the window. ”I haven’t been here for that long honestly. I spent the majority of the last month just trying to understand what this place is. Honestly, it’s been nice just meeting people. I find a strange pleasure in observing others and learning their habits. I find it amusing to help push people to experience more daring things than they may have previously. Life is too short to not try new things.” lifting her hands she folded them in front of her and stretched letting her shoulders pop. She was feeling a bit antsy now that they had eaten and had quite the roller coaster of a conversation. Not that it was a bad thing, she was just used to moving more.

The way in which Alistar talked about how ‘most’ people she’d met were, outside of Heartless, made it seem as though she primarily interacted with those who could be deemed poor and unfortunate souls. Between that, her admission that she tended to spend very little time with people aside from to explore their bodies, and the small bit he knew of her past from yesterday? Truly, the dragon could hardly imagine what a ‘day in the life of Alistar’ even looked like. That was an interesting thing indeed. ”Mmm, forgiveness granted. May this experience aid you in the future.” The honesty of that statement was reinforced by the fact that he’d never seemed angry at her for telling him she disagreed. Curiosity and amusement certainly did take the lead there. When anger had arisen, it had been squarely aimed at memories.

He was not always entertained to feel as though he had a ‘please treat me as though I have no idea what I’m doing or what I’m talking about and be sure to give me unsolicited life advice’ floating in magic letters above his head. Fortunately, thanks to Tedrick, he’d arrived in an amiable mood. This just drifted off him like water off a duck's back, rather than sending him spiraling again. His relationship with touch was also just, a much less explosive topic than, well, life, living, and death. So there was that.

Anywho, with that all behind them, they could continue on with nicer topics!

Only a month. Considering how his health had been, it was no wonder Kahkewistahaw hadn’t noticed Alistar much. Haaa, had he missed other new arrivals? Was it still worth it to keep track of those things? The elf just pushed the thought away for now. He didn’t want to think if all of the research he’d been doing to find a way out of here that didn’t involve dragging someone else into his life was just… a waste of time. Not right now. ”Oh ho, when you describe the habit of people watching in such a way, it does sound terribly sinister.” There was a mischievous pull at the side of his grin as he sat back in his chair again. ”Tuesday, at the hour the sun touches the tops of the trees, subject A arrives at the trail marker just outside the courtyard. Like the inner workings of a nearly perfect machine, they run the same trail day in and day out, unless there is inclement weather. Ah-ha, but not next Tuesday, for then, THEN we place a pack of animals on the route, such that Subject A will be forced to make a detour onto a path we have specially prepared that will leave them forever changed. Forever better.” Kehaw was just playing around, and it showed in his tone. He didn’t actually think it was the sort of thing Alistar did, he understood she meant learning about the people she was meeting, but he was ribbing her a bit for her phrasing in good fun. ”What are the plans for Subject B???” He asked, now blue eyes lit up with expectation that she’d carry on the banter.

Well, until his phone started to ring.

”Oh, apologies.” Motioning for her to wait one moment, he retrieved his phone from his pocket. He’d already known, by the ringtone, that it was an alarm he’d set. His weekly appointment with Lilith (only the second or third now, honestly, since he’s been far too sick to only meet weekly for that) was in about forty five minutes. He liked to give himself more than half an hour to get there, but an hour seemed a bit excessive, so yea. He silenced the alarm, a small bit of discomfort rising in his chest as his health was about the last thing he wanted to think about today.

Oh, there was also a text from Elle. He preferred to keep his phone on silent when he was with others, it was just a habit as he didn’t like to get distracted by his phone during conversations. Since he was already on his phone though, he made a reply.

Text to Elle:

Are you apologizing because you had some influence in signing me up, you curr???

I jest, I jest. I do wonder if you had that ghastly look of concern for just a moment~ Ah well, I am forever grateful that you have been so discrete, it does mean a lot to me. You have never taken it upon yourself to tell me what would be best to do for myself and for that, I am also very grateful. I do hope that if there is anything which I could aid you with, you would not hesitate to ask me either. As ever, it would be my pleasure to accompany you~

Putting his phone on the table, let out a little sigh. ”Well. I have somewhere to be soon, so I should not linger much longer. I do like to hold to my punctuality~ But before we part, would you care to exchange numbers?” He’d tap his phone with his finger, waiting to see if Alistar also carried a phone with her and would like to exchange contact information. ”Speaking again would be much simpler if we can arrange it outside of random chance~ Well, usually anyhow.” For him, it wouldn't actually be that unlikely to run into someone just because he wanted to, but that was besides the point.

So he might have gotten just a tad drunk last night, but was that really an issue? That Halloween event had been an absolute nightmare (and not the good kind) and anything that could dampen the sting or make the memories go away was a good thing. But maybe he had drunk a bit too much as when he awoke he was lying on the floor in the main room of a dorm he did not recognize and frankly did not like aesthetically. Sure he liked an upgrade from a barn (he was kinda human too after all) but something this fancy just made him feel awkward. Maybe he could get some pin ups to tone down the class of this place a little. Preferably pin ups of his roommate, cause damn Alistar was fine. ”Wait, if I’m in a new room, does that mean?” He hauled himself onto unsteady hooves and nearly crashed into the bedroom. No one was in there, but a quick look in the closet gave him all of the reassurance he needed: Alistar’s clothes were in there, so unless someone was borrowing them, it meant he was still living with a good friend. He snorted in relief before walking to the kitchen sink and poking at the cold water lever with his nose. After some trial and error, he got it turned on and lapped up the water coming from the faucet. It would have been easier with hands, but he wasn’t quite awake enough to go through the effort of switching. Besides, if a stranger walked in on him it would be hilarious. Turning the water off was much easier for the talented horse-man.

”Maybe I’ll go for a run around the campus grounds? Chicks dig a fit stallion. Who knows, maybe some hot cowgirl will try to break me in? At least it’ll clear my head.” He took his sweet time walking through the halls, relishing in every double take from passersby who couldn't believe there was a shadowy horse walking through the halls as if he owned the place. Little tricks like that were the spice of his life, and he couldn't even begin to imagine how dull it would be if he had to go back to playing it straight-laced again. He was damn glad he had found people who agreed with him and supported him.

"It's basically monsters inc. under there." Uno chuckled quietly, pulling off the gloves and ribbon that came with his costume as Caira greeted her polecat and prodded him for his secrets. "You don't need someone else to overshare information to." Scoffed the lizard, groaning as Caira helped him up. He thought she was exclaiming due to the strain in her muscles too, but he'd been the one bearing both their weight for the past hour. No, she was ardent to check up on their inner circle, he sighed lowly as he thought of his list of contacts and stretched. Unless they texted first, he was going to assume they were using the night to recover, like he intended to. "Let me know what Harper says." Uno added in a half grumble. There wasn't always a need to text her when Caira was, and he could just ask.

Leaving to shower first, while she was doing that, Uno actually wore clothes for bed, though he had no plans to go to bed. This was a mutual, although silent, agreement between the two as they both eventually found food, something hearty to drink, and a comfy spot on the couch to claim. He busied himself with his event planner, or a book- normal people things, while she was on her phone. He only barely looked up as a whole ass dog house clunked down onto the floor, merely looking over the cover of his book at her with an expression that said it all. "Of course." He snorted. He wasn't even surprised, typical Caira behavior. Uno offered her half a sleeping pill when she was less able to hold off from closing her eyes- he'd take the other half in a bit, still too weary of setting the room on fire again. With half, he wouldn't be out of it during a nightmare, nor would she. The last thing the tamer recalled was texting to check on Lea, Toni, and Kiyato and cancel training for the week.
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By the time the morning bell rang, he was stone cold out of it, the sun greeting a huddled mass of limbs. Most of him was curled into the stumpy little arm of the couch, his feet propped up on the triangular tables spotting the center of the common area, while Caira used him as a pillow. How another body even fit in, he wouldn't be able to explain, merely grunting his disapproval when Caira bumped him while scooting over. He only came to maybe an hour before the afternoon bell, too hot to sleep with so many people all crammed in the same space. When did Harper get here? Already trying to pull clothes off in his half sleeping stupor, Uno wiggled free of the cuddle train, plus one ferret, and escaped into the room for clothes and cool air. And then he said fuck Caira and Harper, because he wanted coffee and a proper meal, and it was simply too tedious to avoid pots and pans making a single noise as he began prepping anything and everything in the refrigerator.

Pan-cooked, toasted, broiled, hashed, fried up, skilleted, casseroled, scrambled, bowled, wrapped, baked- He'd dare you to list off all the morning foods he prepared like some sort of demented line cook. Just google pictures of breakfast and whatever you find there, assume he made it. With Caira, at the least, talking about last night, he prefered to keep his hands busy so his mind could have a break. The tamer even put on lunch and dinner by the time she tried persuading him to stop, "You don't have to eat everything, so shh." Tossing a handful of food scraps if she came near, the nature-goddess was shooed away before she could reach the kitchen threshold. Was he being extra saucy today? Maybe a pinch. He hadn't even flirted with Harper! It was still true that he'd rather try forgetting, even if Caira was right about it being impossible. He stopped when his phone went off for the upteenth time in a row, and finally, he felt like he could answer.

Soleil (Jacob)
"You too? Yeah, I was there. I'm not really okay? But I'm staying busy. How about you?"

IQ
”Hey there IQ. I’m breathing but after yesterday’s mansion, that’s about all I’m doing. Sounds like you were there. Holding up ok?”

Sunshine (Lea)
"Glad you're okay. Toni is right, Caira and I were there last night, I think C's doing better than I am? I'll tell her hi for you, & that you asked about her."
SIS (Emilia)
"You safe, Sis?"

Zilar
"Everything okay, Captain?"

Master Conductor
"Good afternoon, how are you fairing today?"

Yevka
"You safe, lil one?"

Sazerac (Adrian)
"Bad event yesterday, you okay?"
Damien
"Hey! Just checkin in. hru?"

"Jay, text Lea, she asked about you. Cya girls later." Uno threw up a wave as he grabbed a bag and turned towards the door. The cooking was getting obsessive, so he was going to take it elsewhere. Besides, after hearing back from Toni, he'd like to check on her himself. Closing the door behind him, Uno made his way to one of the club room kitchens, getting a phone call from the android as he set up for his next venture. When the call ended, the tamer found himself outside, letting the cool air corral his mood to a calmer state. He was glad to have reached the cold months, much better weather from trassping around in the forest like Caira so loved.

But today he'd be foraging, headphones tucked over his ears as he looked for things to gather. A familiar face disrupted his reverie as he slowly explored school grounds, and he lifted a hand in greeting. "I've seen you in Frontline. Alistar, is it? I'm Uno." Removing one of the muffs, the dragon smiled briefly, always eager to bump into someone he regularly assessed. He'd had a pretty good idea of Chelan's skills long before the first time they formally spoke, and the undine had made similar observations. It had been nice to find a mutual passion in the form of swimming. Passion being an understatement.

Alistar was glad that he forgave her. It would have probably proven awkward if she hadn’t been able to correct her behavior. She took his advice and nodded filing it away. It was another experience to add to the collection. The rest of the unpleasant part of their conversation passed with little resistance. She did indeed hope one day he could get used to her, but she had met people in the past who just seemed to have an aversion to her in general. Usually those were people who could sense the darker stains on her soul. She didn’t bother bringing them up though.

The corners of her mouth lifted with a smirk and she casually shrugged at his suggestion. ”Take it as you will.” She chuckled at his scenario and nodded. ”Something like that.” not typically forever better, more generally that they were forever dead after what she left for them. It wasn’t something she cared to bring up though and there was no harm in letting Kehaw think what he wanted. Still laughing she was about to answer his question when his phone rang. She nodded and pulled out her own phone to look at the time as he dealt with his.

Looking back up at him as he finished with his phone and spoke she smiled and nodded. ”I would enjoy that. Here’s mine.” she would give him her number she stood from their table and stretched. ”Yes, it would be. I would very much like to meet again. This has been a very interesting conversation. Maybe next time we could discuss hobbies?” she would be curious what he would find to do in his spare time. As their conversation would wrap Alistar would head out and start to explore the grounds again.

She had only explored the forest a little bit and found that parts of it changed. Which was a strange thing to experience as you were walking. As she headed in that direction she heard someone walking up to her and speaking. Turning her long purple hair swayed behind her as she saw Uno approaching. ”Hello. We have Frontline and Creative Power together actually. You are a very talented individual.” she complimented nodding to him. ”So what brings you out to this part of campus?” she asked curiously as she looked towards the treeline.

Zilar
"That's good. Physically, everything fine. Where you here yesterday?"
Master Conductor
"I'm glad to hear someone wasn't there yesterday. I'm coping. I'm making infused alcohol if you want any? You don't strike me as the drinking type."

"The class Myst teaches?" Uno unveiled another inch of his smile as he arms folded behind his brown tendrils, eyes aglow with mirth. CPA may as well not even exist with Myst as the figurehead- As ambitious as Uno was, he hardly paid the class any mind, and instead explored other intensive methods to improve his abilities. Perhaps talking to Myst would give him some idea of what to bribe them with, but he hadn't gotten around to that yet. "Thank you, as are you. I'm an admirer, if I may say so." Taking the cue to lower his arms and open his bag, the tamer wasn't hesitant in answering the question Alistar posed. "Looking for something nice to infuse alcohol with. Had I been smart and looked a little earlier, I could have gotten the walnuts while they were still green, for nocino"

Picking out something he'd already found, he showed some winter fruits, and a couple herbs that he'd already begun combining in his mind. "I could always use another pair of eyes, if you aren't on your way somewhere? I'd be remiss to lose the opportunity to find out more about you." Uno hummed plainly, sealing his bag shut once more and following her line of sight to the trees. Toni was looking forward to a gift, and he was sure plenty more of his other friends could use the pick-me-up, or else, he might've abandoned the idea to challenge the reincarnation to a friendly spar. Another time, surely. "Since you mentioned CPA, what's been your focus? Is Myst helping you?"

Chuckling at his question she shrugged lifting her hands. ”You mean the class that Myst wants to charge us to teach?” she grinned and laughed softly. ”But yes, Myst is the teacher of that one.” she looped her thumbs through her belt bands and leaned to the side looking him over slowly. Quirking an eyebrow she did a slight bow to him. ”Always a pleasure to meet an admirer. Though I can’t blame you.” she chuckled her tone teasing and then interested as he mentioned alcohol. Looking back to the trees she shrugged again. ”The forest itself seems to change. I’ve been in some parts that are winter trees and then others that are more summer or fall. So maybe if you walk enough and explore you’ll find some that will suit your purpose. I would have personally just used fruits, but herbs and berries could work too.” she looked at the fruits and herbs that he showed her. Humming she came to walk next to him. ”I have nothing else pressing to do and I was heading in this direction anyway. So I don’t see why not. Plus the view is pleasant.” she again let her eyes dip over him before turning to their surroundings.

”So you want to know more about me do you? I’m usually the one seeking information on others, so a question for a question hm?” she smiled at him charmingly as she leaned down and plucked a bit of mint that she saw and passed it to him. ”Do you have anything specific that we’re looking for or just anything in general?” she asked placing her hands clasped behind her as they walked slowly. She enjoyed this kind of atmosphere. Hearing his question she bobbed her head in thought. ”Nah. Myst is not the type of person I would seek as a teacher. I did use the strange orb thing she provided over the last month to test out my abilities but I prefer to come up with my own training or seek people out.” she had trained off and on with Niels over the last month but knew that she would need to find someone else to train with as well. Not to mention she didn’t want her abilities themselves to get rusty.

Yevka
"We were there too, C and I got through it. Just checking in to make sure you were safe too. What are you doing today?"

Soleil (Jacob)
"You got it, Dr. Maverek. You do the same."


Sazerac (Adrian)
"Yeh, letting off steam. You sound like you either really need, or really don't need this vodka I was gonna send lol."

HA! Even better! Uno snorted, nodding his agreement, "That's the one." He definitely did not note that they had that class together, but she had, and they seemed to agree- Myst's style was not to their tastes. Removing the other muff as her eyes followed along his form, he adjusted them around his neck and dipped his head in turn. "Surely not, perhaps I should merely get in line for one such as yourself?" As he let a laugh slip, and the hints of mirth lifted off his features, he inclined his ear towards her words and nodded. "You are right, it would feel more authentic to stick to the seasons if it hadn't snowed in August." He chuckled, "More variety adds a deeper palate, let's see what we can see?" She hardly seemed to think about his offer and there was a pleased gleam in his eye, no doubt. "Heh. Don't let me stop you from indulging all the more then, this direction seems to be causing everything to align today...What was in this direction until now?"

The school had grown since his arrival, though he wouldn't think the barrier had expanded.. Yet, new buildings appeared overnight, with more places to visit, and in a way, it gave him more of a sense of being trapped inside. "Sure, I'm an open book." A question for a question was how he preferred it, not everyone else had been that way- not surprisingly, though, Alister was inquisitive as well. Whether it was a warrior's instinct or genuine curiosity was up for debate. Stopping shortly after she had, the tamer accepted the herb she'd found, waving it under his nose to catch it's scent. "Thanks. I'm pairing things as I go, anything may end up being useful. Why don't you pick for yourself as well? Infusing it isn't difficult." His eyes scanned along the forest floor, occasionally skirting towards the treeline for handing fruit, as they went song, the forest providing most of the ambient noise, though his music could vaguely be heard still. After a while, his mind felt less flooded with the inertia of last night's trauma.

"You arrived here too late to see combat club, am I right? Perhaps I can point you in someone's direction if my advice interests you. Myst's orb pointed me in the right direction, I will admit." Stopping by a small cropping or flowering, ribbon-y green leaves, he could already smell the tarragon, humming slightly as he picked some at the roots, cleaning away the dirt before stuffing it into his bag. "A question for a question- is there something you want to know about me?" As time went on, they'd gather more, and when there wasn't much more room to fit anything i his bag without bits and pieces poking out, or threatening to fall, Uno would feel fit to point them back in the direction of the kitchen he'd been using just prior, where they could start the second half of the work.

Tapping her lips in thought she smirked at him and bit her nail before laughing. ”You may just have to. Unless of course you can hold my interest.” she gave him a teasing look and a smile as the subject changed to the trees. Looking at them she considered them wondering why the school would change it’s weather so much. ”It was snowing in August?” she questioned with some skepticism. Granted with what she had seen in this school she didn’t think it was impossible. The previous day had been an example of that.

Cocking her head at him as he told her variety makes a deeper palate she grinned. ”In more things than just food.” she almost purred looking around and absentmindedly hearing his question. ”I’d found a few spots that were good for training or sleeping.” she pointed up at one of the branches they passed that was being hit by a particularly nice sun beam. ”I was hoping to find new places or alternatives, because just as I met you… I’ve noticed more people filtering through the forest and sometimes you may just want a good private area to scratch an itch.” she stretched her arms above her head popping her shoulders. Amber eyes glanced at him again a mischievous glint to them. She enjoyed that he seemed almost as enthusiastic to meet someone new as she was. She had found she was meeting a lot of new and interesting people at this school and wondered vaguely what that meant for her home.

Lifting an eyebrow as she watched him sniff the mint she had given him she gave him a sideways look and chuckled. ”Hoping to get me tipsy?” she joked thinking of what kinds of flavors she would like. ”Flavor would probably depend on the type of alcohol you’ve used. Care to give me a hint?” As they walked she would find various things like figs, vanilla beans, and cardamom seeds. Handing them over to Uno she moved silently as he told her about the combat club. ”You are always welcome to provide a direction. Is there a reason you don’t offer yourself up as tribute?” she asked knocking the dirt from her fingers as they made their way back to the school. When they reached the kitchen he had led her too she moved to wash her hands first before turning and leaning against the counter. ”Did you take part in this combat club?” she tilted her head looking him over again not even remotely hiding it. ”With a handsome form like yours I’d venture to say you train yourself pretty regularly.” it was said with a hint of curiosity to it as she folded her arms under her chest and smiled at him.

Unless he could hold her-- heresy! Uno smiled one of his dazzling smiles, blowing one or two small smoke hearts and winking at the goddess. "You've only just met me, Queen. I'm sure I can manage." Holding her interest shouldn't be too demanding on the first day, right? They were already up to something, Uno waving his smoke away to inspect their surroundings. "Mmmmhm, everything about it but the day, said Christmas. I guess it was nice since the day before they'd sent a bunch of people to an undead version of the school." A cold chill started at the base of his spine and he sighed lowly, trying not to think on it deeply. There had been good things that day, like Harper returning, and knowing Caira was okay. Only everything else had been horrible. Foraging- right, that's what he was doing-

"Yes, and I can think of a few examples." Looking where Alistar pointed, Uno really only noted that she'd indicated a sunny branch. However, that seemed similar to Kiyato, who was more comfortable lounging in trees on the rare off chance he had free time. Uno mostly always settled for staying on the ground- or under it for camping, where he had a choice. The treehouse, naturally, was alternatively fine by him. Shelters in trees, in general, were preferable. "Aha. Things tend to appear if you desire them to, including private nooks and crannies." The dragon hummed warmly, nibbling his lip as their gazes broke apart and they began to find various ingredients around them. He laughed at her jest about having alcohol for herself. "I'm merely offering the fun, how much of it you have is entirely up to you."

On that note, they should both know what they were working with, yeah? "I plan on infusing vodka, hopefully the school gives me something ridiculously expensive, though I suppose I'd only detract from it that way. Maybe Belvedere? It's the most popular where I come from." Uno began to think out loud, going through the slow process of gathering as he found apples, lavender, tymes, plus the tarragon- it was a good haul, he'd call himself satisfied when they turned to return to the school. "Any direction I point, there'd always be three fingers pointing back at me, no?" Uno chuckled, knowing full well he'd never turn down the chance to go at someone new. "Chelan and Kiyato have both been the most fun to spar, and I believe Toni could keep a lot of people on their toes as well. I don't see them saying no if you asked to train with them. I'm always open to it myself, if you truly wish.."

In the kitchen, Uno tossed a large colander into the sink, dumped their finds inside, and ran water over them while Alistar cleaned up at one of the other stations. Walking over to the pantry, he began bringing back bottles of vodka, enough to be sure he could fill each of the round cork bottles he'd labeled earlier. "I never missed a meeting." The tamer confirmed about the club, searching a nearby cabinet for filter bags in which to neatly arrange his flavors, once he washed them, cut them, and paired off the combinations he'd decide on. Cheating, he did grab more winer fruits from the refrigerator as things began to be divided. Winter apple-lavender and lemon, thyme-fig and pear, mint-tarragon and grapefruit- these would be his infusion pairings. Uno turned to offer Alistar a box of the bags and her own space to prepare a bottle.

"I train daily, a couple hours teaching, and a couple learning, plus normal exercise. It's no wonder at all I have such an amazingly handsome figure." Uno clicked his tongue and chuckled, beginning to stuff a bag into his bottle and pour his vodka inside. It was best he prepare cards on strings so everyone knew to let them infuse for a few days before partaking. Corking each one, he began looking for cards and a pen. "We can exchange numbers, or you can stop by and observe. I meet the girls in the courtyard at 7, and Kiyato in the forest training area at 9. We could always meet on our own time, if that's even better, for one on one." Glancing at the goddess, who was hopefully working beside him now, he looked her over. He was curious how much they could teach each other. She looked around his age, but looks were deceiving. "What does your schedule usually look like? How do you train?"

Alistar rolled her eyes and chuckled at Uno’s antics. ”Many men have tried and failed every time.” she warned but let it go. She wasn’t going to burst his bubble if he honestly thought he could hold her attention. It wasn’t that she didn’t enjoy the package before her, she was sure she would. It was more that after living for as long as she had with the constraints she did… you just stopped caring. Granted for the moment he was amusing her and that was what mattered.

She took his words in about things appearing if she desired them. It was a novel concept and one she had noticed a little over the time that she had been at the school. ”Well I don’t always like to be alone when I have my fun.” she pouted thoughtfully before shrugging it off. Vodka was his choice and one she agreed with. It would probably infuse better. ”Never heard of that kind. Of course, where I’m from there are probably lots of different types of alcohol. The school seems to have lots of different things from different years and cultures. So maybe they will have your, Belvedere was it?”

Committing the names of those he mentioned to memory she would have to seek them out later on. ”None of those are very familiar aside from the staff. I’ve heard of them but I’m not sure I’ve met all of them.” she gave him a cheeky grin as he finally offered himself. ”Up to having a new person put you on your ass?” she teased before giving him a playful grin.

She stayed leaning against the counter as Uno moved about the kitchen cleaning up everything and setting up what he needed. It was impressive that he had spent so much time training. Not everyone did. She could tell he was used to moving around and carrying a conversation as he worked. So she helped where she could, taking the box of bags and bottle setting to work cleaning her own ingredients and prepping them. ”Training is an important thing. It helps keep the mind and reflexes sharp.” she glanced over his body once more before looking to her task. ”It does indeed look tasty.” she complimented as he chuckled. She had thinly sliced everything and put it into the bag before rolling it and putting it in the bottle. Shaking the bottle a bit to let it unfurl inside. Reaching over she turned one of the bottles he had gotten out. Looking over the label she smiled and poured it in her bottle. Closing the top she lifted the whole thing and looked at it answering his question without looking at him. ”I’m fine either way. It may be best if you ask your friends if they want a new training partner before bringing in another person. I’ll give you my number and we can coordinate something.” she blinked nodding to herself before setting down the bottle. ”Finished.” she smiled and nodded to the bottle. ”I’m always up for some one on one time. I wouldn’t say I have a set schedule. I train every day usually by myself right now. Niels sometimes joins me when he feels up to it. I wouldn’t say I know a lot of people here yet. So I can’t claim your level of popularity.” she laughed softly before holding up the bottle towards him. ”So I can keep this yeah?” if he said yes she would pocket it, if not, she’d just put it on the counter. Either way she would take one of his left over cards and write her name and number on it for him. Sliding it over to him she sighed and smiled. ”I do think though that it is time for me to go find another adventure. Thank you for the memories.” As she walked around him her hand grazed his arm lightly. She gave a slight push from her ability just to make it not pleasant for him if he had an aversion to touch like Kehaw. Although if he did he would probably still pull away and she’d remember to avoid touching him unless he asked. Once the contact broke the feeling would fade away as she waved and headed for the door her hips swaying as she walked away not looking back.

"Hah..." Uno presented a kind-hearted, if not professional, smile, before his eyes blinked elsewhere. If only she knew the standards he was raised by, but Uno wasn't so sure he was here because conquest beckoned. A repute to follow was replaced with silence as the tamer picked purposefully through the forest floor. He rebound on the upbeat mood as a brow quirked upwards, "Whenever did I say alone?" Sure alone and in private were interchangeable, but they weren't the same. Nor had he intended them to be, and Alistar seemed dissuaded by the idea that they had. It wasn't often he got to hear comparisons between worlds, green-tinted eyes meeting gilded-orange orbs with astute observation. "If we're fortunate. I'd sample something from where you're from, just the same." He would have to ask her from whence that was, should ever they meet again.

Uno's suggestions were noted, though he wasn't concerned if she knew the names- it would be a small measurement of her intel gathering if she found them without being further pointed in their direction. Uno was his own guarantee, and he laughed lightly at her confident proposal, "Yes, I am." Whatever she had in mind, Uno didn't think it'd be any crueler or grueling than anything else he'd ever endured. The dragon was always enthused to improve on his skills, and if he could get Kiyato to spar her, he'd learn that much more. Fast forwarding until they were back on said topic, now in the kitchen while they prepared bottles, Uno could already imagine Lea being disappointed that he'd spread himself even thinner when she considered training their exclusive time. It made him laugh to himself, knowing she'd get over it and be happy for yet another friend- this time, nevertheless, she'd probably demand something truly exclusive. "As I intended, but all the better with a number to call you by."

Uno stopped to observe Alistar's finished bottle, his chin resting in his palm as he listened to her list off her training partner. "Oh, Neils?" The terror pony hadn't told him as much, not that they were friends simply because Uno approached him the one time. But having an inkling about the man, he wasn't so surprised by this- by the fact he trained with a woman, that is. "Hm? Yeah, it's all yours. Enjoy." The tamer nodded, not being particular over a bottle the school would restock if he opened a cabinet. Pocketing the card his new acquaintance wrote for him and straightening up, he wiggled a few fingers in parting sentiment, when she touched him, he swayed slightly, nesting his hip against the counter to stay balanced. He was surprised, who wouldn't be, it left a curious look on his face as the cat-like creature sashayed out of the room, leaving him alone.

Alistair was gone, and the school had teleported any bottles Uno hadn't decided to hand deliver. Sitting in the empty class, earmuffs filling the silence, he felt...empty. Singing quietly along with the lyrics, the tamer lifted one hand, palm down, to watch it shake subtly. Empty may not have been the word. Getting up before his thoughts could catch up with him, he dropped off a bottle with Oyami, borrowing some paper while he was at it, then went looking for Harper. The stop by with the vampire was brief enough to also leave her with a bottle, and all that was left was Caira's- he'd give hers when curfew hit. For the rest of this bell, well, with nothing else on the checklist, he meandered to the treehouse and laid on the patio, legs hanging down between the balusters as he blazed and let his mind roll through the backlog of suppressed thought. When it had gotten fairly dark, and a glance at his watch told him what time it was, Uno reported back to the dorm to heat dinner, still blasting his music in his ears.

Yevka
"Busy bee. Have fun, ttyl."

Zilar
"You've done more than enough, and thank you. Consider the same in kind from me."
Lyrit
"I appreciate the offer. Enjoy the gift at your pace."

Damien
"Totally the usual, but you're in good hands haha I'm ok, talk tomorrow maybe?"

Uno sends a gift of infused vodka (flavor of handler's choosing: winter apple-lavender-lemon | thyme-fig-pear | mint-tarragon-grapefruit) delivered via school magic. Each bottle comes with a note attached by a string. The first side reads: Let infuse for three days for best flavor. The backside reads:

Toni: To found family, BSG ps Call me if you actually get blackout drunk~
Caira [to be hand delivered]: To found family, BSG & Safe Spaces
Chelan: Here's a gift to enjoy when another hard day goes by, or better yet, one worth celebrating
Damien: To help face your fears (but not advisable while swimming)
Adran: Even if it's not because of the alcohol, I hope getting this makes things a lil easier. To found family, BSG
Lyrit: I recommend a shot at a time for casual drinking. Enjoy
Zilar: Hey Cap'in, here's something back for all the good you do
Yevka (hers is infused iced tea): For you and the girls, see you on the next sewing lesson
Kiyato: To found family, BSG
Oyami [hand delivered]: Couldn't make this a fun pace without you
Harper [Hand delivered]: To found family, BSG In case you're ever tired of being the strong one, I'll be around.
Jacob: I know this might feel pointless, but nevertheless, may you find some joy in it
Lea: To found family, BSG ps I swear you better take it easy, or at least see if Sorath can get drunk
Emilia: Hey Sis, just a gift to help move the days along with a brighter color
Charlotte: So I don't become too much of a stranger. If you ever need anything hmu

Alex expected Mari to scold him for not getting them out sooner, not exclaim, in shock, that he was a reaper. The man was under the impression she'd been here long enough to have gotten used to the variety of beings, and certainly not seem wary of him so instantly upon discovery. "Muirghein doesn't like me much~" Replied the ravenette casually, swinging the door open wide and stepping away for Mari to exit. His weapon became a pair of brass knuckles that he slipped on, preoccupying himself with sorting the candies as Mari led the way with her light. "I'm sure someone would've found you." He hummed, pocketing the raisins, tootsie rolls, and candy corn to slip to Rhemy after curfew. She wouldn't know they were undesirable candies, he was guessing, and so they needn't be thrown away; he may even give her the rockets, as thanks for taking the rest off his hands.

With his scythe in direct contact with his skin, the reaper's taser mark quickly healed and he felt better after their stint in the big house, though he wished Mari well, and that she'd feel better- he even promised not to give her a hard time tomorrow when he saw her at the gym, all before lifting a hand and waving with his fingers as she went on her way. Eventually putting away his vape, Alex grabbed the peanut butter cups to tide him over for the next meal, as he began looking for something to occupy the rest of the evening. There weren't many ways a person could stand out amongst a populace of unique beings, but one tall, shapely figure did get the prior depleted 'convict's' attention. "You look familiar." Alex tapped the side of his lip, his other arms crossed over his chest as he slowed his walk into a gradual swagger. "Didn't we take a class together? I could've sworn we had chemistry. We must've even shared electrons, because I'm feeling a covalent bond between us~"

Pausing mid stretch and pose Alistar blinked and righted herself. Turning she rolled her head on her shoulders causing it to crack in a few different places as her long purple hair swung behind her. Stretching her arms above her head she stretched again, causing her back to crack when she heard a voice behind her. Raising a thin eyebrow she looked to the male that approached her and was so thickly laying on the pickup lines. It was amusing enough that the edges of her lips quirked upward and a sly chuckle escaped her plump lips. ”What can I say. I just happen to have one of those faces. You’d probably know better if I happen to be down on my knees and something between my sweet lips hm?” she laughed openly. She had to give him props for his lines. ”Where in the world did you come up with pickup lines like those and do they actually work?” she couldn’t help the grin that spread over her face now as she leaned back and to the side. Her hands on her hips as she let her amber eyes rake over him. He was acceptable in the looks department.

Her tongue darted out moistening her lower lip as she lazily brought her eyes back up to his. Confidence oozed from her very pores. She didn’t mind the interruption to her impromptu workout, especially if the interrupter was this easy on the eyes. ”I’m Alistar. What shall I call you dear? Mr. Smooth?” she chuckled jokingly. It was nice to meet someone who seemed to have a sense of humor.

Ha, Alexus loved it when a bet paid out, though he should have waited until he’d had a more filling look at the tall violet flower before he spoke. It didn’t matter much, she met him where he was and as the reaper smiled like a Cheshire, his other arm folded along his chest with its twin. "Possibly, I always did think better with the extra blood flow." Sweet lips was right, but per his true weakness, Alex had a liiiittle more fun imagining her beautifully colored hair down and pouring everywhere, if not outright wrapped around one fist. "Thinking of comeons is my favorite pastime. They work when well employed, I’d give myself a ninety percent success rate." Informed the man who was plentiful in human years, but perhaps not much worth the time of those with…long term vision. Most people he'd met, in fact, were like that- he wasn't the common denominator at all, nope.

Alex checked out her ass as she angled her weight comfortably on one leg and looked him over, snickering as he gave her a generous three-sixty. Alistar? Did he detect an accent? "That sounds like a mouthful to scream. Daddy works, or Alex, I’m more well known by that." The man popped his collar but since his sweater was collarless, it merely lifted and fell while he shot a finger gun with each hand. "Its late evening now, a good time for dinner? Or post dinner activities. Will you do me the pleasure?" The reaper's eyes bounced around their setting, a busy mind already mapping out what was nearby, and wort taking a woman to. Especially not knowing if she was staff or a student, to be whisked away at the next bell and ruin all his fun. He may like shy and sassy, but those who matched his vibes would always be one of his favorites. Or had he said those same things about the latter two? It needn't matter so long as he was treating them all right.

Alistar could tell that the man was confident and honestly she found it kind of sexy. Laughing softly she couldn’t help the shrug. ”You think you’re better with it, I think you’d be better with it in another place.” Biting a lip she lifted an eyebrow at his pastime. ”90% huh? That’s a pretty high success rate. Can you back it up?” she queried interested in knowing if he could. She had found quite a few delectable men in this school but it had also been eye opening in just how many of them wanted more. With no real way to get out of the school she was being forced to bend some of her long standing rules and she wasn’t sure she liked that.

She was far too old to deal with the kids she found here. Then again some of the older ones she had met were just as bad. Humming soft she held out both hands palms up in a shrug. ”You have a point it would be.” shifting her hands for one to cross over her stomach and the other to take her chin between her pointer and index finger she gave him a thoughtful look. ”Eh, I’m not sure you’d be worthy of me calling you Daddy. I’m used to calling the shots and have yet to find a man or woman who could earn that title. So Alex it’ll be. I do so love to scream.” she matched his Cheshire cat grin with one of her own. ”Hopefully you do too.” she purred softly rolling her eyes at his popped collar. Youngins. Considering his question she laughed and nodded. ”Sure. I could use a good shot of protein. Have a place in mind or shall we head to the café?” A slight accent hit her voice as walked past him, her fingers grazing his arm where she sent a smaller sliver of her power through him. Just enough to tease him.

"What if I were to tell you that you're exactly right." The reaper replied with a purr, almost proudly- but mostly it was the hubris that had him continuing to smile widely as he slightly lifted his chin. He didn't make it hard to guess when he was amused at all, the reaper hadn't even taken it as a complaint, no, he was simply hearing a fact being stated. Did she want him to back it up? That stood to reason, and Alexus nodded. "You're asking for more pickup lines, or…?" If it led them to a bedroom, sure, but Alex was no standup comedian, he'd only technically accept being an entertainer- since he was so entertaining. The reaper only sometimes asked how high when told to jump. "Or we can skip to the part of seeing how many licks it takes to get to your center."

Related to that topic, they should perhaps know each other's names, and Alistar was first to share hers. Mr Smooth was a bit much, and Daddy had to be earned, so ultimately, he would go by Alex, The reaper stuffed his hands in his pockets, rocking between on the heels of his shoes as he quietly chortled. "Oh that's cute, it wouldn't be proper fun if I never had to break you first~" He was surprised she'd even asked when it was so obvious he was a total whore- or maybe it wasn't obvious enough. "Spread me like I'm butter and you'll see~" Dinner wasn't necessary for him, but he'd amuse it- some things were a minimum, no? Red meat, red wine, chandeliers, a fancy preface to a rather animalistic act later- if things went that way. "Cafe, unless you have the intel I'm missing on a good place to wine and dine a lady I have to be worthy for."

Alexus snickered quietly, stopping to shiver and shake away that strange, but delightsome jump of a feeling he got when Alistar passed by, brushing his arm with her fingers. That was new! "After you, mia signora" Putting some energy in his step to catch up, the reaper got the door and turned towards where the cafe would be. He preferred the food there, but most times visited the cafeteria for the company- a shame, honestly. Nevertheless, he'd memorized the map of this place, in the general sense in which it could be known, and had them parked at a table in no time. Letting the process fly by, he merely topped off with lobster bisque and chardonnay. It was too easy for the bourgeoisie. All the better for getting to better things. "I'm intensely curious to know, Alistar, are you a student or a teacher here? I'm starting to feel like I should count my misfortunes, I don't run into fun people so often. Are you all hiding from me in the same place?"

Alistar had to laugh at Alex. She found him highly amusing and very promising. ”Oh but finding out how many licks with your talented tongue could most certainly be fun.” she grinned and winked at him. After explaining that he had to earn the title of Daddy he didn’t seem to be too broken up over the fact he had to earn it. She did lift an eyebrow at his quip about breaking her first. This man was certainly going to be entertaining. A light bite to eat seemed in order and she smirked at the mention of butter. ”I would have thought I would be the one spread.” she more chuckled the thought to herself but she was already eyeing him to see what ideas came to mind. Curiously her mind played with different ideas wondering what he would let her do.

A pleased smirk graced her lips as she saw him shiver at her touch. With half lidded eyes she nodded at him and kept her hands behind her back as she walked. ”The Café is the only place I’ve found for decent food outside of the cafeteria. Maybe we should petition to have something else put in?” she had a slight pep to her step as they headed inside and took their seats. Ordering a small steak, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies she had a red wine. The meal flew by with pleasant company and conversation. ”Student. You? Maybe we can add in a bit of teacher, student play if you’re into that thing?” she joked but was completely serious at the same time. Scrunching her face she shrugged. ”I’m not supposed to reveal all of our secrets.” she gave him a conspirator grin. ”I just had to see for myself what all the fuss was about. I must say though, I’m not sure why they would want to hide. You seem yummy enough to me.” she took her time lazily looking him over with a content smile. ”This place seems rather stuffy tonight.” she pouted looking around.

Finally, someone totally okay with his vibe, Alex couldn't help but find the laughter slightly contagious, his chest rumbling as he nodded along. "I'm glad we agree." He couldn't act humbled by knowing there were things withheld from him, it couldn't be understated that Alex had met people of all kinds and standards- relationally wise- and had come from a city teeming with all sorts of supernaturals. Besides, Alistar wasn't hard to get in the way that made him frustrated. Though the city he and his wife moved to wasn't exactly small, most of the population were too conventional, hardly the type to have spontaneous bedsheet fun. Boring. But where there's a will, there's a way. "You are the one who calls the shots, I'll fetch whatever bone you throw." Alex wasn't especially domineering nor overly compliant- lazy would be going too far, he did work hard when invested. It could be simply said, whatever got him the cookie.

Speaking of things you could eat, Alex was unsurprised, but still disappointed that the cafe was the best they'd get. He didn't need better, of course, but it'd have been a nice option. "Petition for one? I suppose this place could use the 'culture.' To whom do we petition?`` The high ups weren't one in the same with a board or counsel, they didn't hear cases or peas, or whatever you'd call it- as far as he knew. And also as far as he knew, no one went to see the principal. Alex wanted to be privy to this information Alistar seemed to hold. "Hum, maybe I can also petition for a place to rent a room on the fly, just a thought." He didn't see that idea getting any wind in its sails, but trying couldn't hurt. As soon as he heard that Alistar was a student, the reaper childishly blew bubbles into his wine. "Damn." She saved it, of course, and Alex laughed. "I won't lie, I'm into it." It was never a joke to Alex.

A further smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he raised and lowered a brow, fork slowly twirling in hand. The reaper snickered, "That's what I keep telling them!" Putting his fork down and leaning forward, he shielded on side of his mouth as he added, "Give me the location, I won't tell anyone it was you." Alas, he'd only be so lucky to meet many more people like him. He'd count Mari and Liberty, but only loosely, He doubted anyone here was truly like himself. Them, and Alistar, would be enough, regardless. He sighed heavily as she pouted at the room. "That's the one thing I don't like about this place~" Until he was taken on a school trip, at least. "People don't get wild enough around here, you'd think there'd be a lot of incentive since this place does traumatic bs half the time, apparently?" He shrugged, watching his empty dishware disappear, and he'd pop a mint into his mouth. "The time of curfew is neigh, I'm afraid. But, I offer you my number as penance. If I could have your phone, lady Alistar~" The reaper motioned his hand for her device before saving his number to it, saluting with two fingers as the bell rang, and he rose to wander about once more.

The evening had been an absolute strike out. The bar was practically dead and the few people who were there spent most of their time getting drunk and complaining their time here. He could commiserate for sure, but that wasn’t what he needed to hear at the moment. Though it was not a cheerful scene, he didn’t think there was anywhere else that would be much better: he needed company and interaction just so he wasn’t alone with his thoughts and memories of yesterday. Eventually he managed to infiltrate into a group of three guys and managed to prove himself something better than an awkward third wheel. As the empty bottles began to pile up, the group dynamics began to change. Two of the guys started focusing more on each other til they were ignoring Niels and the other guy. Then came the light flirtations and next thing Niels knew those two had wandered off. He turned his attention back to the other abandoned one only to see him passed out face flat on the bar. With a sigh, he downed the rest of his and the other guys’ drinks then hauled the passed out one onto his shoulder and carried him out. Wasn’t until he was in the dorm section of the main building that he realized there was a glaring hole in his plan: he didn’t know who the hell the guy on his shoulder was. And since he didn’t know who the guy was he couldn’t look up what dorm the guy belonged in. His foggy brain turned its wheel lurchingly, but it was only spinning around in circles.

Fortunately, Heartless came to his rescue. The curfew bell tolled and the both of them were teleported, assumedly, to their respective dorms. Niels could guarantee he was in his dorm, at least. ”Maybe Alistar will know something to do. Yeah, she always has some fun up her sleeve.” The young pony didn’t care that he was speaking allowed, he was drunk enough for his shame to have already passed out, but not so drunk that his brain had checked out. He’d remember whatever happened in the morning, saying there wasn’t a crappy hangover waiting for him.

Grinning Alistar nodded to Alex. ”I’m glad to hear that.” She was definitely glad to hear that he could be compliant. It made her wonder though just how much of a dom he could be. Eh only one way to find out. Looking at him oddly as he asked her about the petitioning she shrugged. ”There’s that Sophia lady who works the front desk. I’m sure if we got enough people interested and then talked to her the school could hardly tell us no right? I mean they are supposed to provide everything we need and it wouldn’t be far fetched for a decent food place.” she did chuckle for a place to rent a room on the fly. ”That would be so needed. The school does seem to have plenty of nooks and crannies that one can get into.” she gave him a devilish grin actually liking the idea a lot.

A frown hit her face and her amber eyes looked confused as he cursed that she was a student. ”Something wrong with me being a student?” She was glad though that he liked the idea of student teacher play. ”So which would you play? The student or the teacher?” she would bet he would say the teacher. Laughing as he asked her for the location she shrugged and waved her own fork. ”Eh, we’ll have to rent one of those rooms you mentioned to make sure we’re not over heard.” She was enjoying herself quite a bit. It was nice to openly flirt but at the same time meet someone who could match her sass. She could tell given the change the two of them would have a lot of fun.

Looking around she nodded agreeing with him. ”Yeah it’s kind of dull at times.” Glancing at him as he offered her his number she easily handed over her phone. ”You may Sir. I expect plenty of potential locations for these rooms for rent. I’ll need to know where to meet you again to discuss where the others are hiding.” she grinned and laughed taking her phone back when he was done and texting him a heart and kiss emoji. ”It’s been a pleasure Alex. I do hope we can have more in the future.” and shortly after the bell rang whisking her back to her dorm and Niels.

With a soft thump she landed on the couch. Hearing someone mumbling and her name a slim eyebrow rose. Getting up she went towards the sound only to find a not so sober Niels. ”Looks like you’ve already started the fun without me big boy. What in the world have you been up to?”

Sophia. Should Alex know them? He hardly assigned value to names, hence his tendency to quickly resort to using a list of revolving pet names to refer to others- to lower the expectation he’d be able to identify them later, or lest he say the wrong name in bed. No, Alex hardly cared that people came with individual names; he’d rather call them by their traits. "Sure, there’s power in numbers, I guess~" Agreed the reaper smoothly, returning Alistair's grin, all the while wondering if he’d really put in the work for either of those things. He sounded interesting now, and certainly each could serve a purpose, but also, he was still lying relatively low. Muir wouldn’t be the only person to read Alex should he come too near to regular society. The reaper knew all too well.

"Yes, it means I have no access to you after curfew." There was no other reason for Alex to care whether she was a student; he had the ability to know how old anyone here was, so status mattered nothing more than that. "Hmm…I dunno, it’s just a strategy to get you in a short skirt~ I do like the idea of being called professor, though." The reaper purred, but was amused all the same. "Tis Why it’s such a shame there are eight whole hours I wouldn’t even be able to reach you." Alex tsked his tongue. Still, that was why his idea about loose rooms was so convenient. "I wouldn't care about being overheard." He snickered.

"You got it, doll." Entering his number in his phone and giving it back, she was immediate in returning the favor. Alex removed his phone to log the new contact, already thoughtfully picking through his thought for places to meet as Alistar got ready to leave. "I’ll give you ideas, you tell me when we’ll be there." Agreed the addict amicably, with a short wave goodbye. And soon as she was out of sight, he finished his drink and made his own exit. Maybe tonight he’d stay in the dorm, rather than rotting in front of a movie screen until everyone was out to play.

"Yo it's my AllStar! Get it, cause if you look at the i in your name wrong it looks like an l which would spell all star." He was so damn proud of coming up with that in his drunken state. Even better, he was still speaking this foreign language just fine. "Hey, I just mentioned your name and you showed up! Did I summon you? I need to try that again when you're in the shower or something." A pause ensued as his brain processed this new power and the application he had mentioned. She might beat the shit out of him for doing it, but it would be worth it just to see her look of surprise...yeah definitely not anything else he would be hoping to glimpse. "I promise, no fun was had without you. I was feeling kinda down so I went to the bar hoping to pick some chicks up or at least incite a party, but it was dead as fuck down there. Though fuck isn't really dead, well unless it is necro on necro, so why do people always say shit as fuck? But anyway the most happening scene I could find was three guys bitching about shit. We got drunk then two of them snuck off to bang each other and the other guy passed out. Honestly you calling me a big boy and the part where I imagined your wet and soapy body pressed against me are the most fun I've had today." It was hardcore subpar for him, but not every day could be cranked up to eleven, and after the craziness of the Halloween event, maybe chill time wasn't such a bad idea. "Hey, wanna wish up some alcohol and do something we'll regret in the morning? Doesn't even have to be sex or anything. We could just like, dye each other's hair or watch shitty videos on our phones together? I can be one of the girls too ya know. We might even be able to share clothes, when I’m in this form at least." Even if he was not particularly cognizant of it, he was taking her advice during the event to heart: let the real him show through. The real him was still a shameless flirt and had the libido of a bat just before hibernation, but he could also be quirky and fun, sometimes even chill and empathetic. He was pretty sure thus far only two people really knew that about him, and they were both his besties (even if they would not have labeled themselves that).

Alistar gave Niels a soft and slightly amused look as he called her his AllStar. Chuckling softly at him she nodded. ”I will happily be your AllStar Niels.” She outright laughed as he asked if he had summoned her and told her he wanted to use this new power when she was in the shower. ”If you want to see me in the shower so bad you know you can just come in right?” she reached out and ruffled his hair affectionately.

Walking into the kitchen she continued to listen to him as she prepped drinks for them both. ”Well I would hope you had at least some fun but that does sound like a rough day.” one part of what he said did make her feel a tad concerned for her friend though. ”Why were you feeling down?” She did laugh again as he told her the most fun he had was when he was with her. ”Saying things like that will make a girl swoon over you. Be careful with that mouth of yours or I’ll put it to other uses.” she gave him a wicked grin and winked at him before handing him the drink she had made for him. ”Look at you using your summoning powers again. Let’s see. I’ve had a very interesting day and could work off some steam but you seem like you need some more pampering. So go sit on the couch and I’ll meet you in there.” Taking a swig of her own drink she followed after him to sit her drink down first.

Next she turned and headed towards the bathroom. Grabbing a bowl of warm water, some face masks, lotion, and a general care kit she came back out and sat it down near him. Dipping the wash cloth in the warm water. She made sure he was sitting down before straddling him and making herself comfortable on his lap. ”Let me know if you need more to drink ok?” she spoke in a soothing and soft tone as she pushed his hair from his face and dabbed the cloth over it to clean it. ”You get to do this for me next ok?” with a smirk she wondered if he would last that long. After cleaning his face for him she opened one of the face masks and applied it, setting a timer for him to stay still. While they waited, she turned on a bit of music they had found they both enjoyed and worked her fingers into his scalp.

He smirked, ”you know me Ali, I am very flexible when it comes to a woman’s needs. I’m also just flexible in general, kinda, well more flexible than when I’m more buff.” He took his drink in a somewhat steady hand and took a long swig from it. ”Have you ever considered a career as a femme fatale? But like a good one. Ya know, the one who’s friends say she is a real sweetheart but then she sneaks off into the night and gathers intel while kicking bad guys’ butts.” He did as he was told, as any good terrorpony would do, and put his glass down before flopping onto the couch, hitting his head in the process. ”Ah shite that hurt.” He took a few more sips to ease the sudden explosion of pain in his head. His eyes drifted closed for a moment and remained closed when he heard Alistar put some stuff down beside him.

However as soon as he felt her straddling him, a smirk spread across his features and he opened his eyes once more to focus on her own. ”I think I’ll be good long as I can keep drinking up the sight of you.” Ok, so he was one of the girls with benefits. That was a thing, right? The main point was that he wasn’t always a horn-dog, but it was a pretty easy feature to turn on. ”Of course! What sort of girlfriend would I be if I didn’t?” That said, with her straddling him as she was and her very suggestive choice of words, he wasn’t entirely sure they would make it to her turn. But then again the massaging and alcohol were having such a soothing effect… ”not sure if I should be picking out nail polish or stripping,” he mumbled moving as little as possible. After a moment of thought, he decided on his plan of action for the next little while. Once it was finally time to take the mask off, he got to talking a bit more. ”If it’s alright with you, I kinda want to keep this going a while. It’s not all that often we get to be intimate but not sexual. Gotta say I like this feeling too, especially after the nightmares of that shitshow yesterday.” At some point he probably should go over it with her, but now was just not the time, not when he (and hopefully she) were feeling so good. ”Alright, it’s your turn now. After I drink a little more that is. Man it’s a good thing I’m in a human form, this would be super hard to do with any bit of horse involved. Hooves are great but not for fine manipulation.”

Alistar only smiled as he asked if she had considered a career as a femme fatale. She hadn’t and doubted it would ever work. The way he described just wasn’t like her at all. ”Aww you think of me as a sweetheart? You know I’m not really like that right?” she grinned and chuckled. She winced seeing him hit his head. Watching him just long enough to know he would be ok before she headed off to get the supplies she needed.

A soft laugh escaped her throat as he told her that he would be fine as long as he could keep drinking up her sight. She rolled her eyes at him and continued to clean his face and apply the mask. ”I’m not sure I would want you trying to paint my nails right now anyway. Not with how tipsy you are. You should probably just lay back and enjoy.” she had to admit she enjoyed taking care of him. She stayed in his lap while they waited for the mask to finish and made sure to wipe his face gently after she removed it. Pausing she looked at him curiously as he admitted to liking being intimate but not sexual. It seemed to be a theme for her for the day. Everyone had different ways of handling trauma. She got a sense that not many had ever taken the time to actually show him real care. Picking up the lotion she made sure to move his drink out of the way for a moment before pulling his shirt over his head. Silently she gave him his drink back and put some lotion into her palms. Rubbing them together to warm it up she started rubbing it over him and massaging his chest and shoulders. ”Let me know if you want me to get your back as well.” she hummed to the music intent on her work. She wouldn’t budge or stop unless he moved to actually stop him. The previous day had been terrible for her as well but this was her way of dealing. Don’t think about it. She didn’t really even care if he pampered her in return. All that mattered in her mind was that he needed it and she could provide.