I'm from out of town

The way she responded to his offer of friendship, with an assurance of loyalty, settled easily into his heart. Like his mother, he made friends fast and bonds faster, for better or for worse. Still, it was rare for him to connect with someone on such a level. Her head nod and the soft, dimpled smile that played on her lips had to mean she was sincere, right? He returned the gesture, his lips pulling back to reveal ivory fangs in a grin much too big to be comforting—a Cheshire smile. She asked if she could accompany him, her tail wagging slowly as she rose to her paws, moving closer.

Redrum's muscles twitched slightly, a reflexive response to her proximity. He stiffened, his eyes darting around them momentarily as though they might be assaulted, but it was merely his own nerves. The anticipation of his new friend and bringing her home was pleasant, unexpected. "Yes. Hestia can— come with— Redrum." He said, his voice steady, fast, and chopped up like his thoughts.

He shifted slightly, creating space beside him, indicating she should walk with him. "Redrum lives in– Insomnia. Led in part by– Redrum’s mother– Medusa." His words were simply put, but held a promise of companionship and safety. He waited for her then, the muscles of his neck sending spasms up to his skull and jaw. He bore through it, hoping Hestia wouldn’t take it as a sign he was rabid. He’d seen a rabid coyote for the first time recently and immediately thought he would start frothing at the mouth as well. But his mother had made it clear he would have died long ago if that were the case.

"Come. Redrum and Hestia– can speak on– the way. Yes? Questions. Hestia might– have." His golden eyes softened, watching her reaction. He took a step forward, his body language open and inviting.

"Murder"