For The Girl

Caedes observed the interaction between Kaino and Mariah with a mix of amusement and quiet observation. He knew his sister well enough to recognize her bristling demeanor and the thinly veiled sarcasm in her words. Despite his request for her to be nice, he couldn't fault her for staying true to herself. Really, all he needed was for her not to verbally, or physically, tear Mariah’s head off. He was sure that wasn’t too much to ask for.

Stepping forward, Caedes offered a diplomatic smile, hoping to diffuse any tension in the air. "Kaino," He said steadily, his voice carrying the weight of their bond and what this introduction meant to him. "I appreciate your honesty, as always." He shot her a knowing look, silently acknowledging her reluctance to play nice.

"As for the weather," He continued, addressing Kaino's thinly veiled jab, "It seems we're in for a bit of a storm." He flashed a reassuring smile at Mariah before casting a sideways glance at Kaino, silently conveying his understanding of her mood. He knew he could have handled the situation more tactfully, yet considering the implications of his bond with Mariah, swift action seemed paramount. He resolved to rectify matters later, perhaps by showering her with opulent furs and indulging her passion for extravagance? She couldn’t be bought, but it was in action the brute knew to prove his intentions. He even entertained the idea of conceding to a comforting embrace, willing to do whatever it took to mend the small rift between them. Ah, but where to take this introduction now? It wasn’t as though the brute was the diplomat Kaino was. Intelligent as he was, there was a reason he stuck to his herbs and medicine.