The Offer on My Head, Still Stands

Just as the words had rolled off his tongue, a different- feminine voice quickly interjected. Pointing out that he likely wasn’t going to be fond of her presence in this particular moment. Aresenn’s amber gaze immediately shifted to the source, recognizing the girl from the beach at once. He was surprised, but not like what he had been anticipating following Sephiran to an unknown destination. To god only knew what kind of gory scene. The Praetor boy’s ears flicked at the sound of his own name, followed by a question in regards the friend he had spoken of. It sounded odd being said aloud like that aloud. Though, he supposed that was the term he, himself had used in his hungover stupor. He wouldn’t readily acknowledge it here and now.  “Absinth.” He greeted casually.

Before he could get anything else out, his attention was requested by the purple brute at his side. Funny how one single word could convey an entire address worth of intention. Aresenn’s attention shifted to Sephiran, offering a half-sided grin as he inquired if this was someone for them to share, or if he were going to claim Absinth for himself. “Well, Seph. It seems that this is your world and we are all just merely pieces in it.” He began, partly in humor, but he was certain Sephiran would take the sentiment very seriously- and he counted on that. “Though, I would prefer it if she lasted us longer than the last.” While he wasn’t going to instill hard boundaries over this girl, he didn’t want to see her befall the fate of the girl from the mines. While Absinth might not be a predator, she wasn’t prey either. She was a scavenger. Aresenn cast a glance in her direction before continuing. “She told me stories of her father flaying traitors to their kingdom alive- parading them before the pack without their skin. I thought you might admire the creativity.” Which was the heart of his truth, and also why he had thought Sephiran might take special interest in the castaway. Though in hindsight, maybe being a special interest of Sephiran’s might not be the ideal place to be.

Focusing back on the monochromatic fae, he offered her a casual grin. “I think that’s a fantastic idea.” He answered her inquiry to join them. If she any idea of what was best for her, she wouldn’t run. Motioning them onward with a flick of his chin in the direction they had be going, he looked for the Saxe boy to take the lead. “Sephiran was taking me to check out a different kind of surprise- though even I am not sure I want to know what it is in advance.” He explained, the dry humor hidden in his words. Even still, he had the idea that maybe getting Sephiran to his toy would distract him from Absinth. Or maybe he had just played a part in leading the sacrificial lamb to slaughter. Either way, he wouldn't lose too much sleep over it.

"Aresenn Praetor"