Welcome to Gaia! ::

Danna took a seat next to Astaroth and unobtrusively had a look at what he was reading over his shoulder before pulling out a book of her own and settling in.

Shifting a little bit to the side to make more room, Astaroth looked up questioningly. He'd been studying again, this time it was Literature and the book was much lighter. The image of some godly figure was depicted on the page, the chariot drawn by stunning horses. "Did you want something?"

Danna smiled over the edge of her book, a massive and dusty tome that she had propped against the table. "I only wanted to share some space with you. I don't mean to disturb you..."

He nodded and turned back to his book after raising an eyebrow at the large tome. Assuming it was some sort of book for casting magic, he smiled knowingly as he turned the page, "Taken an interest in magic as well, now?" There was a hint of approval in the tone of his voice.

Danna looked down at the book and smiled. "I'm not sure how far I'll get into Magic myself... But I'll never know if I don't try to learn about it. Most likely I'll leave the Magic Casting up to any Abberations I manage to acquire." She paused and then added timidly. "This is a tome on Tribal Magic."

He nodded, though the respect that flared in his eyes at her decision to try dimmed when she mentioned leaving it to her Abberations. With a quiet sigh, he set an elbow on the table and rested his cheek on the palm of his hand. "I strongly recommend learning about it. I have only scratched the surface so far and the potential..." He trailed off, after being unable to find the appropriate word.

Danna nodded adamantly. "Oh, of course! Even if I never use it in combat, I do want to learn how. If anything should happen to my friends, it would be terrible if I was unable to help. I've got to at least master the basics...and if it takes, then I might take it further. We'll see."

The thin line of his lips wavered between a smirk and a grin as she spoke. She could recognize what was useful at least but it remained to be seen if she held any talent for it. He hoped she did, magic was endless as far as he could tell while the other more mundane pursuits seemed to have a limit. "The basics are essential and you'd be a fool not to at least master that much," He agreed.

Danna nodded, a little uncertain as to whether his words intimidated or reassured her. "What sorts of magic are you learning, Astaroth?" She asked curiously. She was certain he could master them all if he wished to.

"Right now? Nothing." He gestured to the book before him, "This a book about different mythologies. However, I have taken a liking to Grimoire magic and simple fortune telling. I found a deck of Tarot cards among the supplies in my room and want to know more." His response was amiable if a little cold. He clearly remembered telling her before but played along, wondering if she'd realize that.

Danna nodded, a little surprised he hadn't begun on a long list. "I would have thought you'd be learning more than Grimoire... I could see you doing well at Circle Magic or Ritual Magic quite well. Perhaps sometime, you could give me a Tarot Reading?" Danna asked, a little bashfully...

He paused a moment, blinking as she said that. His eyes lit up as he imagined himself as a great and powerful sorceror "Excellent idea!" He smiled brightly, incling his head a bit as he thanked her for the idea. He hadn't thought of that and was a goal he felt worthy of pursuit. "A Tarot Reading? Perhaps. I would like to master it first though..." The idea of showing his abilities off before he'd mastered them wasn't very appealing. What if he did something incorrectly? It would be far too embarassing. People might think of him as incapable.

"I just feel smarter after being with you. I'd like to think you're rubbing off on me." Danna folded her hands tightly together to keep them from fidgeting too much and smiled warmly. "Someday, when you've mastered your Tarot Reading skills, I'd like to be the first person you read for..."

He nodded. That was to be expected of course. He found himself returning her smile, equally as warm, and set a hand on his hip, "Really Danna?" It was the first time he'd said her name aloud since their meeting and he liked how it rolled off his tongue. Maybe she wasn't as annoying as he intially thought.

Danna sobered a little as she nodded, her hair falling over one shoulder in the way that she hated. Her wide eyes were round and large as she answered slowly, "I expect your reading would be terribly accurate and delving. You'd be able to tell me much that I might not choose to see. I would find it incredibly helpful in improving myself." There was passion in her voice as she said it. Unlike some who dreamt of greater and lofty things, and strove to be good enough to achieve them, Danna dreamed only of making herself the best she could be. She had no great goal, not end target, merely the path itself of self-improvement. And for -that- she'd give her all.


Astaroth nodded once more, not really expecting such an answer. He had been surprised she wanted to be his first reading though her reason made him stand up striaghter. That was a reason he couldn't argue with. "I see. And you'd even listen to potentially negative things?" He continued before she could answer, "Of course. I can agree to that. When I have mastered Tarot Reading then, I shall give you my first reading. However, I think it would only be fair if you offered something in return." He smiled slighty. Astaroth wasn't one to let an opportunity to barter pass by.

Danna blinked sharply at that question and drew herself up a little straighter, feeling a confidence in her knees that was not normally present. "Especially the negative things. I have so many shortcomings. I need to heal them, to erase them. But with so many, I don't know where to start." She blinked up at him lucidly, thinking over what she could offer him that he could possibly want. "How about a Hybrid?" she asked slowly, unsure if her skills would be good enough. Bah, she'd have to ensure they would be. "I could craft you a Golem in trade. ...If you wanted one." She trailed off, losing her momentary confidence and wishing beyond hope that she could retain it.


Astaroth scoffed before he could help himself, "Faults indeed. Not too many that I've encountered so far." He crossed his arms, carefully considering that offer. Watching her a moment, he tried to discern how good she would be at such a craft and decided at length it was a suitably fair trade. "Deal. My first reading for a Golem of your creation."

Danna smiled wanly, but it was nearly a wince. "I'm...terribly mediocre." She muttered, not wanting it to sound like an excuse. "There are so many things that I don't know enough about, so many things I can't yet do. I need to make myself worth something..." She swallowed, bolstered by his acceptance of her offer and grinned resolutely. "I will of course need a little information from you in order to make you a suitable Golem." She said smilingly.


He frowned. Why had she offered that if she was no good at it? It was silly to do such a thing in his opinon. It wasted people's time. "You shouldn't offer what you are not sure of." He tilted his head the side, though, as she continued, "Information? Such as?"

Danna started, realizing how unclear she'd been. "I did not mean I am terrible at Hybrid Creation, nor am I bad at Golem Creation. I meant in general. I am green at many things. I offered the skill of familiars to you because it is perhaps the one thing I'm good at that might interest you. I did not think you'd want seeds or for me to grow you a plant." Danna was silently cursing herself, what a fool she must seem. "Information such as...what purpose you would like your Golem to do. You'd raise it of course, but in designing it, I need to make it efficient and capable for the tasks you need it to perform."


He shrugged. "You'll only be 'green' if you don't practice. And I have said before that I am interested in a Golem. I wouldn't have accepted your offer if I wasn't." He paused then, sighing as he realized his knowledge of Golen was rather small at the moment, "Though I will have to take some time to decide what I want. Is that alright with you?"

Danna bowed appreciatively. "You have as long as you need to master Tarot Reading." She wondered, though, what sort of Shard he'd select. Whether he'd train his for servitude or battle, comradery or subordination.


"My thanks." He replied, glancing around briefly before settling his gaze on her once more, at a loss of what else to say. He wasn't particularly good at conversations but hated it when then dissolved into silence. Shifting uncomfortably, he wondered if she has anything else to say.

"How much progress have you made?" Danna asked curiously, wondering if she might be upbraided for being too inquisitive. "As far as I understand it there are four suits and two houses. But beyond that, each card has its own meaning beyond that of its suit and house classifications, mn?" She hoped she hadn't gotten it wrong, but she was curious to learn more.


Astaroth nodded, "If by houses you mean the Major and Minor Arcana, then yes there are. I haven't gotten too far into it yet, I'm still working through the suits - I'm saving the Major Arcana for after. I do know, however, that each person has a card that is affiliated with them based on their birthday." He added the later in an attempt to make up for his lack knowledge. He hated looking stupid.

"Is that so?" Danna asked with raised eyebrows. "That's interesting. I didn't realize it was so specific. Is that accurate?" She asked. "What if two people share the same birthday, but are terribly different in personality?" She asked softly, thinking of Cyphr and herself.


Astaroth frowned, "I'm not sure, I haven't looked into it all that much. But the traits described by each are card probably in general - there's always exceptions to the rule, after all. I can look it up if you want, and tell you later."

"I'd like that..." She said, smiling wistfully and thinking of Cyphr. "He's so...silly sometimes, I wonder how we could share a Bond-day. I mean... just the other day he was weeping for a dream he'd had...Poor babe." She came to her senses and fidgeted for a moment. What did he care about Cyphr, or her Bond-day either for that matter. You've got to keep the topics stimulating! she admonished herself.


Astaroth frowned, tilting his head to the side. "... Come again? I wasn't aware I shared a Bond day with you." His eyes sparkled in annoyance as she spoke about weeping. He did not weep. He couldn't - no, wouldn't allow it. "I do not weep. It isn't something that's constructive at all. A waste of valuable time." It didn't occur to him that she could possibly be referring to somebody else. After all, they'd been speaking about their abilities not a moment before. Such a swift change in direction was difficult for Astaroth to follow without a hint.

Danna blinked at him balefully before laughing a sweet little bubbling laugh. "OBVIOUSLY I'm not referring to YOU, 'Taroth!" Danna giggled happily. "No, heavens no, I was talking about Cyphr. Have you met him? Small, chubby little Sanguine boy. I sort of...take care of him. He and I share the same Bond Day, although we're complete opposites."


He crossed his arms, barely suppressing a laugh, "Clearly I haven't". His efforts were in vain, however, and his stony expression softened into a bemused smirk. Relaxing back into his chair somewhat, he gestured for her to continue, "Oh?"

Danna thought about introduceing them and immediately thought better of it. "I...don't think you'd like him at all." She frowned a little and then relaxed.


Astaroth tsked, "I'll be the judge of that." He drummed his fingers on his arm a flash of curiousity lighting up his eyes, "But I'm curious.... why do you think I'd dislike this Cyphr? Is he a kinesthetic?" Despite himself, he hoped the answer to latter question was no. He hadn't dealt with any kinesthetics but the very thought of what they stood for an how they approached things - brash, foolhardy, and utterly on impulse - made him cringe. Action without thought was a dangerous course of events. This was something he'd found he$ld much weight with him.

Danna thought carefully and winced nearly comically as he asked if Cyphr was a Kinesthetic. "Yes, he is, actually. Cyphr...you would think that he was very childish, immature...annoying. and you'd likely make him cry." Danna glanced up into Astaroth's eyes, feeling suddenly naked and plain.


His arms drooped, at that, coming unfolded to rest on the table and he answered simply, "Oh." There was a kind of polite finality to the word, as he added the name to his list of people to avoid. His brow rose though, at her later comment, "Cry? Do I look scary?" He sounded somewhat pained. He took great pride in his appearance. One hand came up to make sure his hair was still neat and tidy, as though he reaffirming himself of his looks.

Danna smiled as she blatantly appreciated Astaroth's looks. "You look quite beautiful to me..." She paused, trying to place the exact quality that brought Cyphr to tears. "But you are stern. And cyphr always wants to play, he's got a terrible memory so study is not his fortay. You'd like grow impatient, tell him off and say something harsh and he'd stick out his tongue and cry."


He winked, glad to hear his belief reinforced, "You better believe it." He listened intently, nodding, "I see. He doesn't stand by to his responsibilities? In that case, I agree with you; I wouldn't enjoy his company." He sighed, suddenly, as his confident gaze dropped to the table where it lingered on his slender arms, "However, don't let him keep you from visiting me. I...." He cut himself off, wondering why he was about to tell her he enjoyed her company. It stuck in his throat and he swallowed, letting the comment trail off. He'd said enough anyway.

Danna looked puzzled. "Cyphr wouldn't keep me from anything. He mostly keeps to himself and his games. You don't need to worry about me disappearing. I look forward to your company so much...I'm always afraid you'll send me away." She smiled with a sorrow as if being disappointed in herself. "I take care of cyphr not because he asks me to, but because he hurts himself often."


He nodded, tracing a small symbol on the table as she spoke, a slight smile curling the edges of his lips, "If I wanted you go away, I would have said as much." As she spoke, Astaroth blinked, looking up, "Come again? He hurts himself?" His expression was one of confusion. Why would such a person be allowed into the city? "Shouldn't he see one of the healers about that?" Kinesthetic or not, he didn't like the idea of anybody doing that.

Danna frowned a quizzical expression and smiled ruefully. "Never on purpose, but he's surprizingly resilient. Cyphr hurts himself in his silly experients trying to test his limits. If anything, I'm certain the Elders chose him because he's nigh indescructable." Danna made her way around the table and gingerly placed a hand on Astaroth's arm.


Ah, that was something to be proud of, and something Astaroth could envy. He bruised easily and a papercut would sting for hours before it finally subsided into a dull throb. As her hand touched him, he looked up sharply. Physical contact wasn't something he was used to and he wasn't sure what to say or what she was trying to communicate. As a result, he found himself simply looking at her.

Danna winced internally and looked up into his face, searching his expression. "Should I not? I know Melancholies don't really like the contact... I'm Choleric...so I really want to...but I respect your space and I..." She was repeating herself, she was beginning to panic. She took her hand away and rubbed at her fingerpads as if to rub out the warmth of his skin.

He withdrew his arm, a mixture of emotions coursing through him. Astaroth didn't like being touched, it was an invasion of his space, but Danna's panicky tone made him feel bad. With a sigh, he offered a thin smile, "I just.... don't like being touched." As she rubbed at her fingertips, he shook his head, "It's not you. Okay?" He gazed deeply into her eyes, trying to will understanding into her. He frowned, more at himself then her, as he realized he didn't want to hurt her feelings. That wasn't something he usually cared about - he simply adapted and moved on.

Danna nodded with understanding, smiling warmly to show her feelings were not hurt. She let the smile linger and followed the curve of his shoulder up to where it met flawlessly with his neck with her eyes alone, looking where she could not touch. It would be difficult, she realized, but she did not want to make him uncomfortable, if anything she desired the opposite. "I wasn't thinking... Just instinct, habit I guess. I'm very tactile...I'm Journeyman, what can I say?" Danna laughed sheepishly and let her gaze return to his eyes, finding herself calming down, growing more steady.

His smile grew, as she apologized, glad to see she wasn't hurt. He laughed at her comment, a rich, smooth laugh, as he nodded, "I see. Blame it on your orientation." He teased, his gaze waiting for hers as he watched her look him over. He couldn't help but enjoy that gaze. It meant his efforts were not in vain. "Look but don't touch...." He trailed off, winking, his tone implying that there might just be room for change.

At Astaroth's last comment, Danna's smile bloomed into a glow, lighting up her normally passive face into the delight of a cherub. "You shouldn't give me such permission, 'Taroth! I'll never be able to tear my eyes off you!" She laughed delightedly and settled back, hoping that perhaps she'd be able to spend more time like this, hoping that the road they were on would continue for a long time to come.

He shook his head, a helpless smile lighting up his face as well as Danna seemed to bloom before him. Astaroth leaned back, resting his head on arms that were crossed behind his neck, "You'll have to look at the professor at some point you know." He glanced at her sideways, "Unless you plan on taking notes by intuition alone?" She was proving to be far interseting then he'd first thought. Perhaps there was reason to learn more about her. If nothing else, it would help is reading of the Tarot for her.

"Just because my eyes are occupied does not mean my ears don't work just as well!" She replied gaily before shaking her head in admission. "It's true though, I wouldn't want to miss something important in class. Like the strange Mudra hand-gestures that I see some of the students practising throughout the school." She folded her fingers into a semi-pretzel and shook her head. "I'll have to wait for Rhetoric to fully understand those skills, I'm sure." She found his hands with her gaze and smile inwardly. With his long fingers and delicate hands she was certain he'd be able to master Mudras in a heartbeat.

He smiled, nodding his agreement and formed a triangular shape with his hands, left on top of the right, palms up and thumbs touching. Holding that position for a moment, he let go, shrugging, "That's the only hand sign I know. It's called the Lotus.... I think. Helps with meditation and concentration." He looked down, slightly embarassed that he'd actually admitted to not knowing something not once but twice. However, he felt as though not knowing everything was somehow alright. At least when he was around Danna. She was a calming influence. "I don't even know if that's a mudra...." He turned his head sideways so that she wasn't seeing just his profile, to watch her, "Do you know when Rhetoric will come up again? That's something I'd like to ask the Professor."

Danna looked impressed that he know a Mudra without having attended class. She watched him carefully and tried to recreate the shape with her own hands. "Meditation, hm?" She made a mental note to practise it later. "Rhetoric is still..." She drew her schedule from her ever-ready satchel and scanned it quickly. "9 classes away.* She announced, offering the enchanted parchment for him to have a look at it.

He noticed her trying to copy him and redid the mudra, holding his hands up towards her in an effort to be helpful as he peered at the schedule. Quickly reading through, he bit his lower lip, thumbs twiddling, as he confirmed what she had said. "That's a long time from now...." He looked up, a determined light glittering in his eyes,"I think I'll approach the Professor next I have some free time."

Danna nodded in agreement. "I've already gone to study with Quenda even though I've yet to have Botany class. And I've juuust missed Art, so I'll need to go and see if Raelyn will let me make up the class. I want to complete my studies about Golems as quickly as possible." Danna paused and tried to catch Astaroth's eye, letting her hands relax in her lap again. "Perhaps...we could go together?"

"Oh, that's what I missed?" He sounded relieved, almost as though art wasn't something he considered very important. He blinked, looking up, "What does art have to do with Golems?" He could already guess why she'd be in a hurry.... but drawing and painting wasn't something he associated with Golems. As she asked her question, he looked back at the schedule, answering before he had actually thought about it, "Together? Fine with me." Astaroth paused, just realizing what he'd said. He silently sighed, it was too late to take it back now...

Having touched on a topic Danna was passionate about her face lit up again, and she began to talk in hurried hushed tones, using her hands to illustrate her words. "Only a true artist could make Golems! You need to design them, to coax qualities from the Shard. But I want to be a Golem Incubation Technician, so I need to be able to make form and substance of people's dreams, to pin down the ephemeral designs with hands-on crafting. I'm need to master sculpting, painting, carving, and who knows what other techniques!" Danna finished breathlessly, cetain that if nothing else he'd understand he passion for perfection.

He looked impressed, the first time since they'd met. All that just to be able to incubate Golems? It made the profession seem much more interesting and put art into a new light. What impressed him the most, however, was her drive, passion, and the fact that she knew what she wanted already. He knew what he was interested in but wasn't at all sure about what he wanted to -be-. Astaroth smiled, an aura of pride for Danna surrounding him. Anybody who knew so clearly what they wanted and how to get had great respect from him. "That certainly sounds involved." It was a simple statement, and he wasn't particularly animated, but a keen eye would be able to spot the pride he held for Danna.

Danna grew very still, basking in the glow of his approval. She felt as if some outer layer of herself had unfolded, revealing something better within, something almost beautiful. She felt for a moment as if she might just be good enough for this glorious male before her. "'Taroth...?" She breathed slowly, forcing herself to inhale. The peak of her moment of joy had passed and now she began to worry that she'd spoil the moment with him, that he'd see through her and see ugliness...

"...Yes?" He spoke after a moment of silence, wondering why she seemed to be reacting like that. He hadn't said anything particularly inspiring... and if those four words had indeed been a cause for joy, he would be baffled. "It sounds like Golem creation is far more complex then I first thought." He nodded, a crisp movement meant to be more of a show of appreciation then agreement. He saw a shadow flicker across her eyes and blinked. She'd been so happy a moment ago... The sudden shift confused him - as far as he knew, nothing was wrong. And then her recognized the look. Doubt. But doubt about what? Her skills? "If you apply yourself, you'll do well. Very little becomes perfect without experience." The tone however, asked 'why do you doubt'. He disliked it when people had such mood swings - it made it hard to follow their thoughts and more often then not quickly grew annoying.

Honesty was always the course Danna's tongue followed when she was not fully in sweep of her sense, such as now. "I do not feel good enough for you, 'Taroth..." She whispered before she realised what she was saying. She watched him carefully, still holding onto the look of acceptance that had warmed his eyes just moments before. That place with him, that standing, that was what she wanted. But he was so good, so much better than she, and would she ever really deserve to be there, even if she earned her place? "I think I will be able to fashion a Golem that pleases you... but that is merely one act, one task, one test of skill. After that...I feel that if I say one thing out of line... If I am not careful to watch my tongue and to keep myself well-behaved that you'll lose any respect for me that I may have earned, and then I'll lose your friendship. I fear displeasing you. I want so badly for your friendship, yet I -fear-..." She trailed off. Well, there. It had been said. Make whatever he would of it...likely he'd be disappointed in her, she realized. At least they'd known each other only a short while, adn it would not be so devestating if he asked her to leave him alone. Still...

At first, Astaroth's brows drew down into a deep frown. What was she getting at? He remained silent, however, as she seemed to not be finished and was glad for that decision when she explained herself. As her words came to an end, he heaved a heavy sigh. This was exactly what he wanted to avoid. He disliked being the center of attention, whether it be with only one person around or a crowd; didn't like being put on some sort of display. He worked hard to help himself and being idolized only made him feel under more pressure. Still, he couldn't deny what Danna had said, she had spoken her truth and if he respected nothing else, he valued truth above all else. Raising his gaze he smiled at her, shaking his head a look of tender care lighting up his features, "Don't make me repeat myself, Danna. If I didn't want you around, I would have said as much." He reached out then, and took her hand, patting it gently, "Granted, I found you more then a little annoying at first but I've come to realize you are an intelligent, thoughtful, and interesting person. Those are qualities I hold in high esteem..." He paused, and lifted her hand to place a kiss on it as a gentleman would when inviting a lady to dance, "And my respect for you has grown since we first met. I've accepted who you are, and only you doing something exceedingly stupid will find us parting ways without another word, I assure you." He smiled once more, a nodded, "Do not worry. I do not expect perfection right away." He chuckled, winking, as he let go and folded his hands in his lap. He hoped he'd been clear enough.

Danna nodded meekly as Astaroth spoke, and when he took her hand her cheeks went up in the flames of furious blushing. She was developing a heavy weakness for Melancholy boys, and Astaroth was the epitome of the qualities of the alignment that slayed her. When he was finished she nodded, equally relieved and at a loss for words as she obsessed over his beauty - in and out. At last she offered, "I'm rarely ever -exceedingly- stupid, so that is a comfort." She paused, and let out a long, slow breath. She felt herself relaxing, opening up, calming. She had never yet been this comfortable with another Empyrean. It was akin to the state of comfort she entered when gardening, or working with the Professors. Here, with him, this was where she wanted to be now. She wanted to do something for him to show her gratitude, her joy at his friendship. She scoured her as of yet limited list of skills and finally burst out, "'Taroth, Do you like cookies?"

He blinked, caught totally off guard by such a seemingly random question, "Huh?" It was not the intelligent thing he would have preferred to say, smiling despite himself. Danna seemed to be able to get him to say less formal things more frequently then anyone else did. It amused him. "Cookies? Why yes, I do like them.... Why?" One brow rose, giving him a quizzical look totally contradictory to the expression he had worn not a moment before.

Danna leaned forward, her smile growing, and her blush thankfully fading to a rosey hue on the apples of her cheeks. "What is your favourite favourite kind?" Her hands were fidgeting in her lap, clasping themselves in an effort not to touch him. She wanted to, to hook her arm about his elbow, to take his hand, to hug him soundly, but he'd said not to. He'd taken her hand, and that was a wonderful thing, but she would have to be patient and hope that he took her hand again soon. Journeymen and their need for the bridge, Danna was practically edging off the lip of her chair.

He leaned back, taking note of her fidgety movements and thought for a moment. He reached up and scratched the back of his head as he actually looked sheepish, "I... don't know. I just eat what's offered. I'm not particularly picky about my food.... I end up forgetting to eat half the time anyways." He watched her with a mild look of alarm, wondering what he was getting himself into. "Is there a type you prefer? I could start there. Recommendations are usually useful."

Danna smiled sweetly. "I like gingersnaps best, myself. But then, there's no type of cookie I've made yet that I don't enjoy." She smiled and made a mental check-list of the ingredients she'd need for a good batch of gingersnaps to make for him.

"I haven't had those before." He frowned, digging through his memory. Cookies are sweet little round things, but what flavours had he had? "I've only tried chocolate chip and... peanutbutter cookies. What are gingersnaps like? They sound crunchy... or spicy for that matter." Only then did it dawn on him that she was offering to cook something for him, "You mean you cook too?"

"Oh, I do love to cook!" Danna bubbled happily, clapping her hands together. "Gingersnaps can be cunchy, but if you make them right, and eat them fresh they're a little chewy, with a rich brownsugar, cinnamon, ginger taste. They are a little spicy, but it's a sweet spice, very good for the digestion and for the circulation. I hope you'll like them. I'll bring them tomorrow." She paused. "If I can see you tomorrow? If you're busy I'll drop the cookies off for you..."

"I'll likely be in the library tomorrow but if they're best when they're fresh, just come grab me and we can picnic in the Gardens." He smiled, nodding. While he enjoyed the severe atmosphere of the library, there was a certain serenity that the Gardens offered. He turned to his book, then and stuffed it in his pack. "Perhaps if I like them enough I'll ask you to show me how to make them." The way she was fairly bouncing around, he thought it might be a good idea to go for a stroll or some similar exercise. He doubted that he'd be able to keep up if her energy built up any more.... and feared she might burst if it was worked off. "Did you want to do something? My concentration has died for the day."

"Oh, yes please!" Danna replied cheerfully, getting to her feet and adjusting her satchel with one hand and pulling her hair back with the other. "What did you have in mind?" She asked in a curious tone that clearly said, 'anything is fine with me'.

Ah, darn. He had been hoping she would have something in mind. Rising as well, he hoisted the heavy satchel and shrugged into its weight before answering, "Not the library... or the Arena.... Or the Teacher's Lounge..." He frowned, trying to think of some place he'd been that she might enjoy. He'd been to very few places, disliking the day he got turned around and ended up at the Arena. That had not been a pleasant experience so he'd kept to the hallways he recognized. "The Gardens? It's one of the few places I'm familiar with. Unless you've found some interesting little nook?" He asked, smoothing his clothing and deftly checking the multitude of belts he wore. Assured that everything was in order, he gestured for Danna to take the lead, "Surprise me."

Danna thought carefully. She wanted to show him something new, but it had to be something he'd enjoy. From what she knew she narrowed down the options. "Would you like to meet my friend, Murmel?" She asked with a slow smile.

"Mur....... mel?" There was a long pause between syllables as he tried to imagine what the associated Empyrean would look like, "Who's that?" It went without saying that he was indeed interested even if it was only to find out who would be sporting such a.... unique name.

"Murmel belongs to Professora Quenda, but he's such a little darling that I think you might like him." She reached out her hand to him and then forcibly brought it back to her side. "Have you ever met a Hybrid before?" She asked, tilting her head a little to one side.

"A Hybrid?" He chewed on his lower lip, "I thought you were suggesting that I meet another Empyrean. But no, I haven't." He hoped it wasn't furry and rodent-like. Astaroth could deal with most things but rodents made him want to climb up the nearest, tallest object. It was his secret little fear that hoped nobody would find out about because it was so shameful. Even just the thought made him visibly shudder. "What's Murmel like?" He asked in the hopes of finding out whether or not he should steel himself for the encounter.

"Murmel is small and fat, and a little squishy. He's got spots and fluffy petals for hair, and beedy little eyes." Danna smiled, gesturing with her hands as she held Murmel's squirming form in her mind's eye. "He's a Hybrid of Maggot, Dandelion and Toadstool."

He pursed his lips, no rodent. That was good. Still... "That's an odd combination. It produced something fluffy?" He couldn't imagine how, though. The different things did exactly scream cute, afterall. "Let's get going then. We've lingered long enough." he smiled and opened the door wide, stepping aside to hold the door open for her to pass through, "After you."

"Thank you." She bobbed in a little curtsey before making her way out into the hall. "Murmel is kept in Quenda's classroom adjacent to the Flora Gardens. Though, fluffy isn't a good word to describe Murmel. His head is sort of fluffy like a dandelion head...but the rest of his skin is quite smooth and velvety." She kept a steady pace, not rushing, but not dawdling either, measured.

Astaroth found himself working to keep up with the Journeyman, keeping quiet as the strap of his bag bit into his shoulder in the rush. He hadn't meant they should hurry! Merely get going. He listened from behind, nodding, "Ah, I see. It seems as though this creature is one that needs to be seen to understand it." He wished his legs were just a little bit longer so he could match his stride to hers. She may not be hurrying but he was still having to take two steps for her one.

"Yes, he really is best explained to be seen..." Danna replied thoughtfully, leading the familiar way to the Gardens. "He's perfectly harmless as long as he's not sporing."

Astaroth paused midstep, "Sporing?" He wasn't sure if he should be curious, afraid, or amused. "Should I be concerned about that?" Murmel was part toadstool so it shouldn't be that surprising he mused. It made him happy that his magic was predictable, something he was quickly finding that golem or hybrid creation wasn't.

"Sporing can be a bit of a problem. Quenda said it was a bit of a side-effect she wasn't expecting. But the qualities of his Samples turned out to be pretty serious. The quick replication of maggots with the tenacity of dandelions and the far-spreading reach toadstools makes it so that when Murmel get's into the right circumstances he begins to create these little spore-versions of himself that root into things and once they get in, they're ridiculously hard to get out." Danna said it all matter-of-factly, as if it were to be expected and stopped in front of the door to Quenda's room.

He felt entirely stupid asking but the question was there, "What, exactly, can these spore-versions of him root into?" He was more then a little worried that they would somehow burrow into him and ruin his good looks. As they stopped before the door, he stared at it for a moment before inhaling and quietly pushing the door open. He hoped there weren't any spores.

"I'm not entirely sure what the spores do, aside from make it hard to breathe and make you tired..." Danna replied truthfully. "Quenda only warned me about them when I first encountered Murmel, but she had everything under control so I wasn't infected." She stepped into the room and looked around carefully, trying to spot Murmel. "Muuurmel!" She called sweetly. "Here Murmel murmel!" After a moment, a small fat creature no more than a foot in length bumbled out from under the bench. It was ivory white with reddish spots across its girth, with short stubby legs and a round, fat face with two beedy black eyes and a tiny divet of a mouth. Atop it's head sat a crown of dandelion-like plumes of brilliant yellow. It blinked its shiny eyes and toddled forward curiously. "Hello Murmell" called Danna happily, sinking to her knees and spreading her arms to the little Hybrid.

Astaroth blinked, pausing in the doorway to watch the strange little creature. It was utterly alien. "That's Murmel?" Dutifully, he stepped forward, albeit slowly, and knelt reaching out a hand, brushing Danna's hand as he did so. "Certainly is a unique little creature."

Danna beamed at Astaroth, glad he was not put off by the strange little Hybrid. "Yes, he's a sweet little boy, very curious." She stroked the velvety soft skin on Murmel's chin and giggled as he chittered in response. As Astaroth's fingers brushed hers she again resisted the urge to take his hand or link and elbow with his arm. Instead she leaned ever so slightly towards him, letting her shoulder brush against his arm.

He leaned further and hesistantly touched the hybrid with a couple fingers and then smiled as he found Murmel's skin to be silky smooth. Slowly, he stroked the creature with his entire hand but stopped as Danna leaned against him, glancing over, "Careful. Don't loose your balance." He smiled, following what he considered the most logical line of thought.

Danna looked up startled to Astaroth's face, her cheeks blushing deeply part in the embarassment of his notice her contact and part in relief that he hadn't realized her aim. "Ah...yes..." was all she managed to awkwardly reply, and returned to petting Murmel as a grateful distraction. Still, she made no move to distance herself from Astaroth's side.

He turned back to the critter, nodding briefly as Danna spoke. Astaroth shifted slightly, moving to the side and away from the contact. He frowned, if she wanted to touch him, -leaning- on him wasn't exactly the way to encourage him to return the gesture. "Please stop leaning against me. It's uncomfortable." He spoke quietly as he shifted again to sit cross-legged on the ground, watching her, "Are you alright?"

Danna nodded in response, as he moved away, painfully aware of the cool feeling in her shoulder where he'd been. She didn't meet his eyes as she replied, "I'm sorry, I hadn't meant to make you uncomfortable." She sighed a small, inaudible sigh and put her attention into playing with Murmel, lifting the weighty little pet into her lap.

"It's alright." He turned watched as she lifted Murmel and placed him into her lap, frowning slightly. Moving once more, he arranged himself before Danna and had to lean forward to touch the creature. He rubbed his forefinger and thumb together trying to get the hybrid's attention, smiling despite himself. Murmel was indeed a cute little creature, he looked up from beneath his lashes, "Thank-you for showing me Murmel. He is cute. And I'm assuming he isn't sporing?"

Danna watched with a happy smile as Murmel sniffed about and finally ended up sucking at Astaroth's fingers. "No, when he's sporing he coughs, poor little tyke." She seemed keen to drop the subject of physical contact, and hazarded a covert glance at the boy when he was busy petting Murmel.

He actually giggled as Murmel sucked at his fingers, not nearly as reserved as one would normally see him. "That's good." He felt her gaze on him and looked up, tilting his head to the side. "Do you play with him often?"
As the Prophecy says:
Still flushing in the cheeks, Danna looked away when he caught her looking at him and nodded, her hair slipping over her shoulder in the way she hated and falling to wave over Murmel's back. The Hybrid began to bat at her hair playfully as she answered, "Yes, lately I've been coming to visit him every day. Quenda has two other Hybrids and classes to teach, so she's not able to give him as much attention as he'd like, poor Murmel."

Astaroth smiled, reaching out to disentangle the lock from Murmel and ran his finger along the side of her head as he tucked the loose hair behind her ear. He hadn't been able to overcome the urge this time around - the first time he'd seen her hair fall forward like that, he'd wanted to tuck it back as well but refrained because he didn't know her. Now, he though, she wouldn't mind. Perhaps he'd even find a clip to help with her hair. "Every day? Really?" He asked, sitting back, "Do you look after the other hybrids as well then?" He smiled, subtly rubbing his fingers together as he remembered the softness of her hair. "Are they like Murmel here?"

Danna's eyes grew so wide she was certain they'd reached the edge of her face, and all cognitive thought in her mind froze. It took a moment for her heart to resume beating, and then, a little flustered she tried to form an intelligent answer. "I ... I don't take care of the others, but I have met them." She tickled Murmel's side and beamed as he gurgled and squirmed happily. "They're nothing like him. Bronson picks on Murmel often and Benefice is unsociable, she won't let me pet her." Danna shrugged, finding it hard to look Astaroth in the face for fear her blush would begin to offend with its brightness.

He laughed, "If you go any redder, I'll mistake you for a sanguine." Astaroth looked rather amused at it, pleased by her reaction moreso then he was expecting. She had blushed before but it hadn't inspired such a feeling in him. "So Murmel's the only cute one? That's disappointing." He frowned slightly. He liked how amiable Murmel was and that he wasn't overly excitable.

Danna attempted to laugh casually about the reddness in her cheeks, but instead she merely made an uncomfortable squeak. She cleared her throat. "Well, Bronson is cute to look at, and Benefice beautiful...But Bronson's part cactus and when he's excited to see you it -hurts-. Benefice is calm and lovely, but as I said, she's one you have to content yourself from watching from afar." Much like you, she wanted to add, but bit her tongue.

"Oh..." He nodded, imagining quills jabbing into his skin and shook his head, "It doesn't sound particularly pleasant." He was rather amused that she had squeaked and wondered if he could get her to do that again. Astaroth decided then, that he would present her with a hair clip. He was beginning to enjoy seeing her blush and smile, though he wished she'd make eye contact more often. He liked the colour of her eyes. "Does Benefice like anyone then? She seems rather.... snooty, for lack of a better word." He leaned forward again and rubbed Murmel all over, taking pleasure in his little burbles.

Danna found herself giggling at the enjoyment of Murmel and leaned back on her hands, watching Astaroth play with the little Hybrid. "I'm not sure Benefice likes anyone...save Quenda, but then, Quenda made her, she's like a mother." Danna smiled at Astaroth, liking so much to just look at him. She was fascinated with the way the light was catching on his cheekbones.

"That makes sense. If Professora Quenda created these hybrids it would be silly for them not to have some form of loyalty for their master." He smiled, continuing to play with the little guy. His thoughts turned inward as the hybrid reminded him of the Golem Danna had promised him. What would he pick... He didn't want something overly active, or lethargic and it definitely had to be pretty - he always liked pretty things more. He glanced up, smiling at Danna as he thought, and he liked warm earthy colours and metallics... He chewed his lower lip for a moment. He'd have to check to see if there was a Golem that might display those properties.

Danna smiled when he looked at her, as if not realizing she could be seen admiring him. "Yes, that loyalty is probably the part of it that i find most intriguing..." Danna glanced at Murmel before returning her gaze to Astaroth. "Think of it...we who cannot bear children...we gather our Husks from beyond the city gates, pluck them from the world out there. But think...with Golems or Hybrids...we can create, we can be their mothers or fathers, and they will be -ours-." Danna leaned forward, to brush a hand through Murmel's crop of petal-hair and caught a distinct whiff of Astaroth's clean scent. She closed her eyes for a moment and savoured the frangrance.

He paused, "I hadn't thought of that... But what you say is true. However, it would be folly to make something that you couldn't control by some means. It would be like casting a spell without a target. It could hurt somebody." He frowned thoughtfully. "I wonder how much of our city depends on subtle control like that used for hybrids and golems. It can't all be as happy as everyone makes it seem. Afterall, we are under attack by the outsiders... they kill us on sight from I've been able to gather. There has to be some sort of internal support, some blue to bind everyone together so that people of vastly different personalities don't clash and cause the city to fall from the inside..." He stopped, wondering if he had said too much. It had been a question he'd held since first learning that outsiders would sooner kill and Empyrean then befried. He knew, that based on that, he'd rather opt for a safer route and avoid contact.

Danna nodded, sobering quickly. "I've thought a lot about that myself. I wish there was some way that didn't result in conflict, but that isn't the way the world works. Part of me wishes to stay a Zero forever, and stay safe...but the stronger part of me knows that it is unfair to do nothing while other, better Empyreans risk their all for my safety. I need to offer something to this City. It chose me, afterall. I need to prove I was worth raising." Danna hunched her shoulders a little unsurely.

Why was she hunching over? He was thought she was worthy to be here, "You wouldn't be here if you weren't worthy, Danna. Stop being so self-doubting, it's a little annoying. You're here for a reason, as am I." He nodded, "I don't want to stay a zero forever, even though it might be safer. If I don't grow, I won't be able to see the city and master magic the way I'd like to. You don't have to fight to be useful, I think. Take the Chorus, for example, they ensure stability in the city, something we couldn't really lead peaceful lives without. It's a very important job." He chuckled, "Besides, you'd be able to fight better then I would. I'm an academic and you're a journey - you're much stronger." He tapped his head, "My strength is here. And your's is here," He tapped the area above his heart, nodding to emphasize his point.

Danna smiled gratefully to him, and bit back an appology, feeling he'd resent it. "I've been thinking of the Chorus for some time now..." She admitted. "I want to be able to fight, though. I don't want anyone else to feel responsible for me. I don't want the day to come when I find myself in danger and for someone else to get hurt trying to protect me. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself that... that failure." Danna frowned, looking up to him with intensity in her expression, hoping he understood. "As much as I don't want to hurt anything, I know that it is a necessity of life. My only prayer is that I'll train myself and never need to use it..."

"Preparedness" He nodded sagely, "To be honest, I hate conflict.... or phsyical attack, anyway. I'd much rather think through something rather then blindly rush in without forethought." He understood what she was trying to put across, "Though if somebody important to me was put in danger, I wouldn't think twice about defending them." He looked at her intently, wondering why he'd said that. It was true but he normally didn't speak such things out loud.... "And it's only a failure if you refuse to learn from a bad situation, which I doubt you'd do."

Danna found herself unable to look away from his face, as if enchanted, the depth of their conversation riviting her. "Yes, but some situations should never be met. A little failure now and then is needed to teach, to make the student truly understand their limits and how far they can push. But there are some prices to pay that are too high a cost for me to accept. Someone's injury, or death, even-these are things that are consequences of my own lack of judgment or preparedness. I must not let that ever happen." She finished, feeling breathless and passionate.

He nodded, "Granted. However, if someone some importance in another's life that they would sooner die then see extingusihed and made the ultimate sacrifice for them, would that be a failure because one life was forfeit in order to see the other's continuation? I think that is a noble sacrifice and should be honored." He sat back, Murmel forgotten,"Or if one had to be sacrificed to save the many? For example, if my life could buy peace between the outsiders and Empyrean, I would consider it a valuable trade because it ensured the safety of my fellows. And if someone important to me were sick and I held the ability to cure them I'd work until I was able to help them regardless of the stress on me." He ended, thoroughly enjoying this conversation. He hadn't known she would be such an interesting discussion partner.

Danna nodded slowly as she listened agreeing entirely with what he was saying. Melancholics always had this effect on her, making her feel her mind expand as if she were rising up to attain some higher thought. Perhaps this was why she coveted their companionship so much, she felt her petty self melt away and just the concept, the mind, the learning remained. "I would sacrifice myself, if the cause arose. Perhaps that is something I can offer this City." She paused and thought about it further. "Yes, I would. If you were in some trouble, I would bend my every breath to making you well, or fighting off some assailant. I may not be bold, but I love... and it gives me strength." She shrugged slightly, realizing vaguely that she was leaning towards him, both hands in her lap, limply, where Murmel nuzzled at them. She was open, honest, and relaxed, and so very grateful that she'd been able to reach this point with him. It was so hard for her to make friends, but she felt as if she'd connected finally. This was how it felt to stand on common ground.

Astaroth tried to imagine Danna as a fighter and failed. Failed miserably. He could only imagine her as peaceful and gentle - the strongest impression he had of her. When she spoke as though the only thing she could offer was her own death, his expression turned ugly, and he short if crisp, cold tones, "Do not think that you're only path in life is to throw your life away as something that's useful only when it's not there. Not only is that foolhardy, it's a waste of potential and you have much of that." His expression softened, "If you love then you should strive to survive." His look was intense and he tried to will her into understanding, "You are worthwhile. Never doubt that. " He leaned forward so that he was close and spoke softly, gentle, eyes reflecting hers, "Understood? I.... I wouldn't like it if you threw your life away. Who would I discuss such things with then, hmmm?" He looked caught between saying more and leaving it as is. After a long pause, he nodded, deciding he'd said enough, though he didn't move away. He smiled as his gaze roamed over her face, lingering on her freckles before returning to her eyes, "Okay?"

Danna had been about to say she was nothing special, but she did not want to spoil the moment, and di not want him to draw away, or to be disappointed with her. Finally, she chose her words carefully. "If only for you, 'Taroth, I'll do my best. I want to make you proud, someday." She smiled, grateful for his words and for his presence. She had a million other thoughts dancing about in her mind, but she didn't want to risk spiling everything by voicing the wrong one, so she just said, "Thank you..." and put into her voice all of her feelings and thoughts, and hoped that the two simple words would convey at least a fragment of what she was feeling at that moment.

He sighed. That wasn't what he was hoping but was a step in the right direction nonetheless so he nodded, a smile flickering across his features and settling into his eyes. As she thanked him, it seemed for full of emotion he nearly frowned. Getting a hold of himself, he listened carefully and realized some of what she had packed into those two simple words. "You're welcome." He nodded, gaze dropping to her hands as he found he wouldn't be against her touch, at least for the moment. He felt close to her, then, grateful for her presence as he came to the realization that he counted her among his friends... perhaps his closest friend. Awkward for the first time, he wasn't sure how to thank her for that and merely gazed at her hands, a slight smile settling onto his lips.

Danna watched him curiously as he stared at her hands and taking in a breath and holding it, hopeful and unsure she lifted one hand slowly and very carefully held it out to him, not going to far as to touch his skin, and not being so bold as to take his hand. She stopped short of his forearm, able to feel the heat radiating off his skin, but waiting for permission. She tried to catch his eye, to see if perhaps just this once she might be allowed the joy of contact. She realized faintly at the edge of her mind that her outstretched hand was ever so subtly trembling, and that she still held her breath.

His gaze followed her hand, curious, and lingered there as he watched her hand tremble ever so slightly. At length he glanced up when he guessed she wasn't going to go any further and smiled, nodding almost imperceptibly, recognizing that words may not be appropriate for the moment. He made no move to get away and lifted her hand with his own, squeezing slightly in an effort to tell her it was okay.

The flood of relief that swept over her was as instantaneous as it was nearl incapacitating. She clasped his hand warmly, feeling a great sense of comfort in the connection, and a great deal of honour in the permission to make it. Finally she exhaled and when she'd taken a few happy breaths she murmured softly, still watching his face. "I said it before...but I want to say it again...I'm a very tactile person, and this -" she squeezed his hand without averting her glance, "This means the world to me."

"I know." Two simple words but full of understanding, reinforced by her last remark. He squeezed her hand once more, "I'm not that physical of a person... you'll have to forgive me." He looked sheepish, uncertain of what to do next. Astaroth didn't break eye contact though, and smiled at that, glad to see that she wasn't going to look away.

"It's funny..." Danna said, smiling in joy. "Sort of ironic, I guess. That I want so much to touch you, that to do so would be comfortable for me, the place where I am more sure of myself... And that it's the only place where you aren't confident and perfect." The admiration in her eyes was clear, the respect in her voice nearly reverent.

He watched her hands as she spoke, and chuckled, "I suppose.... I, ah, I'm not sure what to do... " It was difficult for him to get that out and it ended up coming out it a quick, breathless string. He hated looking unconfident or worse, being unconfident. Yet he didn't want to hurt Danna by pulling away so he sat in a sort of limbo, enjoying the contact but at a total loss. He smiled, the only thing he could think of doing, silently berating himself for being so inept, even in this.

She watched him, intent to not lose the moment. "Relax a little," She murmured, shifting Murmel from her lap so that she could sit next to him, maintaining their joined hands all the while. "Just breathe, don't worry about what your mind is thinking or planning, reach for your heart, 'Taroth." she smiled, placing her other hand warmly atop their clasped fingers. "Just be with me, just be in the moment, not worrying about five minutes ago or five minutes from now, just enjoy the feeling of someone else's pulse and warmth." She breathed in his delicate fragrance and sighed happily.

"Okay..." He nodded and closed his eyes, treating it almost though it were a meditation session. Without realizing it, he leaned towards Danna and ended up resting a shoulder against her. His eyes popped up and he glanced at her before taking a deep breath and simply relaxing into the contact. Danna smelled rather nice, he found, and the warmth of her skin helped to soothe his nerves. "I think too much don't I?" The question was posed while his eyes were shut and he concentrated on not thinking, which was defeating the purpose but he was trying anyways.

"Sometimes," Danna said a little teasingly. "Sometimes I just wish I could shut you up with a hug or a kiss, but then you'd be disgusted with me." She smiled to herself, letting her eyes close and her weight to relax against his shoulder, semi-conscious of the fact that he had asked her not to earlier, and trying to refrain for his sake, but wanting to keep this contact. Torn between the two, she hovered between leaning against him and awkwardly leaning away.

He laughed, opening his eyes to gaze at her, "Really now? You never know if you don't try. Most I'll do is tell you to stop." He smiled wryly, catching onto the fact that she was kind of leaning against and kind of not, "So I lean against you and suddenly you're shy?" He didn't move away, his tone teasing as well. This was.... to put it simply, fun. He wasn't entirely relaxed but at least he was more open to being taken out of his comfort zone. More open to suggestions. It was a strangely fascinating feeling that he couldn't help but examine as he sat there enjoying Danna's company.

"Not shy...for once." She said, with dawning realization that it was true. "I'm just careful, I know it's not something you...prefer." She said. "I want you to be comfortable. I don't want to push you too far." She smiled and squeezed his hand. "This is alright, though isn't it?"

"It is." He nodded, smile bright and amiable, "Thank-you for your consideration. I appreciate it." He returned the squeeze with his own and settled, truly enjoying the moment. So this was what Danna likes so much. It was something he could get used to, he realized - with her at least. He doubted he'd be as open to other people.

Danna hummed a note under her breath and began to trace swirling patterns over his skin, loving the contrast of his silver under her honey. "I'm so happy to be with you 'Taroth... I look forward to seeing you." She spoke softly, her words like melted honey, unobtrusive and honest. "You're my favourite Empyrean."

He nodded, then paused. Wait. What? He looked up, despite being half-lulled into totally relaxation by the goose-bump producing swirls. "Come again?" He spoke before he thought, caught off guard by the honest admission and fought to keep his mind balanced as emotions whirled all around him confusing him. While he seemed rather honored by the statement, he wondered if there were any deeper meaning. He liked Danna but this was too sudden if it was a confession. He wasn't ready for that. How could she like him that much if he didn't even like being touched? Breathing deeply, he fought to look calm despite an electric current buzzing him awake and into a near panic. He didn't want to break the magic of the moment or hurt Danna. That was the last thing he wanted. He'd hate to see her upset... or worse crying. And yet he couldn't find the right words. He felt helpless and lost, caught between two extremes without any idea of how to moce forward. It was as exhilarating as it was terrifying.

Danna sensed something was wrong and looked up at him, concerned. "Are you alright?" She asked, caring and concern in her voice. "I just said that I love spending time with you. I think you bring out the best in me. You give me the courage to try to be better. How could I not look up to you?" She asked, easing back into a smile in the hopes of calming him. "You're so clever and handsome and inspiring. You're wonderful, 'Taroth. And by far the best Empyrean I've ever had the pleasure of meeting." She was still drawing shapes on his hand, without realizing it, spelling out their names in turn, drawing hearts and moons and stars with her fingertip.

Another RP Log - Cookies and Hairpins

Astaroth was in the midst of studying, sequestered away in one of the empty classrooms he frequently used for studying. They were quiet and out of the way, with little interruption. However, the musty tome before him didn't look as appealing as it normally did, his gaze flicking up to the door periodically as he waited. Danna should be dropping off those cookies sometime around now and he found he was looking forward to it moreso then he expected. He had good reason to, too. He'd found the perfect item to help Danna's hair stay off her face - a way to prevent her's hair's annoying tendency to flop into her face. It would get rid of his urge to tuck it back anytime he saw it happen, he thought - or hoped, anyways. Frowning as the door refused to open, he returned to his book, slowly but surely working down the page.

Danna scurried towards the classroom as quickly and carefully as she could. She had the steaming plate in both hands, oven-mitts still in place. She was trying to go quickly, but she feared that the cookies might spill from the floor. She reached the door and realized she couldn't open the door. Eventually, she just cleared her voice and called out "'Taroth...?"

He looked up, wondeirng why her voice was so muffled then frowned as he realized that the door was still closed. Should couldn't open the door herself? That both her hands might be occupied didn't occur to him. After an exasperated sigh, he turned to the book to finish the page. A moment later, he was at the door and swinging it open, a curious expression on his features, "Why can't y-" Oh, that was why. He shook his head, and smiled, inhaling the pleasant fragrance as he stepped aside and gestured for her to enter. "Those look good. Didn't burn yourself did you? The plate looks awfully hot..." He asked, concerned that in the trek here she might have burned her forearms.
:
She shook her head smiling, and stepped into the room. "No, the oven mitts kept me quite safe. By now they should be the perfect temperature." She set the plate carefully down on the table and and turned, clasping the oven mitts together in front of her. "Go ahead, please try them!"

He nodded, smiling, as he sat down. "Gingersnaps right? After you though, you made them you get first bite." Astaroth nodded, sniffing at their delectable fragrance. Laughing, he waited for Danna to take one, "My mouth is actually watering. These must be good."

"They're not my favourite for nothing!" Danna replied, laughing. She slipped her hand from the mitts and gingerly picked one of the plates and nibbled the edge of it. Her eyelashes flutteredclosed as she savoured the warm sugary taste as it melted in her mouth.

He watched her a moment, taking pleasure in her reaction and wondering if they were indeed that good. Taking one, he bit into it and chewed slowly, thoughtfully. As the cookies crumbled in his mouth he made a greatful sound, popping the remained of the delicious morsel in his mouth, savoring the delightful flavor. "Mmmm...." His only response, it was obvious he had thoroughly enjoyed the treat.

Danna watched him carefully, holding her breath, refusing to blick, to catch every milisecond of his reaction. When he'd finished one cookie, she took a step towards him. "Well...how are they?" She asked, her voice a bare whisper, trepid and careful.

He grinned, truly grinned. It was a goofy expression, one his face was not accumstomed to. "You're a very good cook, Danna! May I have some more?" He asked very politely, eyes sparkling with delight. "Absolutely delightful! Thank-you very much." He nodded, eyeing the plate. They were indeed as good as Danna had said they were. It made him smile brightly.

"Oh, have as many as you want," She replied joyously, sliding the plate closer to him, and tugging at her hair with the other hand. "I made them all for you." She was ecstatic, beaming to see that he enjoyed them, happy beyond reason to see she'd been able to share something she loved with him. "I'd happily make you dinner sometime, if you'd like..."

He blinked, "What? All for me?" His brows arched up high as his gaze slid from the plate to her, "Are you trying to fatten me up? It won't work, you know." He winked, teasing. Nonetheless, he took a few more and nibbled happily on them. He hadn't tasted anything this good in a long while. At her last comment, he tilted his head to the side, "Pardon me? Dinner?" He paused, thinking. He wasn't usually busy in the evenings, being a keen student and finishing his studying in the afternoons. "Alright, I think I can do that. Do you have a specific date in mind?" He continued, nodding as he munched on the cookies he'd taken.

Danna nearly squee'd with excitement, as she'd heard Pyou do many a time. "Whenever you're hungry, I'm more than willing to cook!" Danna beamed, bouncing slightly on the balls of her feet. "What kind of foods do you like?" She wondered what sort of foods Astaroth prefered. She wondered if it would be something refined and elegant. If so, she'd need to practise a great deal to make sure it was perfect for him. Everything would need to be perfect.

"What kinds of foods I like?" He laughed, sitting back in his chair to truly think on this. He bit the knuckle of his index finger as her thought. A good, refreshing salad was definitely something he enjoyed - with grapes and sunflower seeds. Charbroiled chicken was a favourite, with the right spices it made a very tasty meal and one of the few he'd take the time to savor. "I enjoy salads, freshly cut fruit or vegetables, charbroiled chicken, nuts, and steak with garlic-buttered prawns." He paused, quietly adding the last things, "And nachos." He a self-concious laugh tugged at his lips at that. Nachos were essentially the opposite of the others but a very welcome comfort food that he rarely indulged in. "Why do you ask?"

Danna smiled, maknig a mental list, and itching to write down notes to herself. "I want to compose the perfect meal for you." She answered honestly. "A full-course meal, with appetizers, main course and desert that you will love... I hope I do achieve that, at least." She finished not nearly as strongly as she began her sentiments, but the desire remaind, the need to please him, the enjoyment of his satisfaction lighting up her world.

He couldn't help but smile, "My dear, I don't expect you to go out on a limb for me! I appreciate your efforts with you slaving over something." He gestured at the cookies, "These for instance, are perfect. And they're just cookies. Please don't take time away from your schedule for me. You're much more important." He nodded, taking the opportunity to dash over the pile of books that hid small elegant box. Pausing, he waved at her, "Close your eyes, please. I can't do anything until you do." He hoped she'd like what he'd helped make her.

Danna's eyebrows rose qizzically, but she obediantly closed her eyes and stood very still. "Why am I closing my eyes, 'Taroth?" She asked, trying to think over the items in the room, to see if she'd missed anything obvious, but nothing came to mind. Terribly curious, she tried to open her other senses to full awareness.

"You'll see." He answered cyptically, taking the little box and returning to where they were sitting. He didn't understand why he was suddenly caught up in worry over whether or not she would accept the gift. It was just an ornament, a gift so that her hair wouldn't fall in her face nearly as often. Shaking his head, he cleared his thoughts and his unsure expression, and stood before her, "Hold out your hands."

Obediently, Danna held out her hands, the curiosity burning at her mind. "What are you up to?" She asked, unable to prevent the smile from curling across her face.

He remained silent as he gingerly placed the wooden box in her upturned palms and folded her hand over the box. His hands lingered for the briefest of moments before pulling back. Astaorth sat down and arranged himself in the most composed manner he could, draping himself across the chair elegantly, a slight smile turning the edges of his mouth up, "Go ahead." What would she say? Anything? He hoped she'd say something at the very least.

Danna slowly opened her eyes and saw Astaroth watching her before she looked down into her hands. Gingerly she brought to close to her chest and carefully opened it up. There, gleaning inside the box was a hair comb, glowing with a golden apple as it's centrepiece. Danna stared at it in awe, her eyes wider than she could have believed they could go. "'Taroth..." She breathed, barely speaking. "'Taroth...this is so beautiful..." She stood shock still, turning her gaze in awe from Astaroth to the box in her hands and back again.

He grinned and visibly relaxed, as though a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders. "You.... you'll accept it?" He asked, tilting his head to the side, hoping Danna wouldn't faint from lack of because it didn't seem like she was breathing very much. "Are you alright?" He asked, concerned. That would be the last thing he'd want....

"Well, yes, I love it...but why have you gone to such trouble?" She asked, clearly flustered, her cheeks rising in colour. She carefully set the box down and gently lifted the comb out. She tilted it this way and that, admiring the grain of the wood, the glint of the golden apple, the long, elegant teeth of the comb itself. Such craftsmanship she appreciated fully.

"I..." He paused, wondering if he should lie or speak the truth. Sighing, he dismissed the thought immediately. You couldn't expect truthfulness from others if you weren't honest yourself, "I find your hair falling in your face all the time annoying. It obscures your features... and your eyes." He blinked. Now why had he said that? It was true, but still. Chewing on his lower lip, Astaroth quietly continued, "I wanted a Golden Apple because you said you identified with Indun. The little chips are supposed to look like leaves of an apple tree...." He trailed off to watch her admire the piece, glad to see she was enjoying it.

Danna chuckled nervously to herself. "Yes, my hair is terrible to deal with at the best of times..." She smiled, glowing to herself as she stepped up to him. "Would you..." she paused, swallowing. "would you help me with it?" She asked holding the comb out to him and nearly brick red in the face.

He laughed, "Why are you blushing? It's only a gift between friends." He smiled as he took the comb and motioned for her to get a little closer so he could put it in without poking her. "Oh, it matches you quite well. I'm glad. It will look wonderful on you." He waited for her to arrange her hair as she wanted it before sliding the piece in smoothly, jostling it a biit to see if it was too loose.

Danna looked up slowly, the culprit strands of hair twisted up and tucked away in the delicate tongs of the comb. "How..." she began, her voice faltering slightly. "How does it look?" She asked, her eyes wide and ready for ridicule or reprimand, chewing her bottom lip slightly.

"I don't know." He replied, smiling mischeiviously as he stepped away like an artist would once they're finished a painting, "You look stunning." He bowed slightly, sweeping a hand out, "Like a royal figure." He was joking but sincere as well. She really did look very good, though his attention was more on her face then the gift, "Beautiful now that I can actually she your face."

Danna actually squeaked. She had meant to say thank you, but instead, that pitiful, embarrassing squeak. "I...'Taroth, thank you..." She spoke heartfelt and hurriedly, hoping to mask the squeak she'd made. She took his hand and gave it a warm squeeze. "I will wear it proudly." She beamed up at him, feeling her cheeks were still brick red and burning.

Astaroth chuckled, finding the squeak incredibly cute. He had to bite the interior of his lower lip to keep from breaking out into a broad grin as he noticed that her blush had only gotten worse. To try to diffuse that, he held up a cookie, "I'd be honored if you would. Cookie?" He nibbled on another. "You're very welcome. Think of it as a thank-you gift for the cookies and dinner."

"Oh, no, you needn't thank me. I'd do it if only for an excuse to be near you." She shook her head, laughing softly, and paused, marveling at the fact that her hair was not in her face. "Why, 'Taroth... It works!" She let out a delighted laugh then and smiled up at him.

He closed his eyes briefly, smiling slightly, "You don't need an excuse. I've come to enjoy being around you." Gesturing to the cookies, he laughed, "Of course, if you come bearing gifts it's all the better. I'll have to do something for you though, it's not right that you do all this and I get to enjoy it." He frowned, pausing as an idea struck him, "What you think of cooking that dinner together? That way it's not nearly as much work for you."

"I'd...I'd love to cook with you! 'Taroth, I simply -love- sharing my passions with you. I enjoy it so much, to show you the things I do in my study time! I'd simply love to!" Danna clasped both hands about Astaroth's and beamed, the blush subsided to a rosey glow on her cheekbones.

He backed up a little, scooting the chair's legs back a few inches and gently removed his hands from Danna's. Enthusiam was great but she was beginning to invade his personal space and it made a shadow of annoyance flicker across his features. His smile was thin, but there, "I'm sure it will be entertaining." With all of the active things she was doing, pulling him into, he was beginning to feel more then a little cloistered. Perhaps he could convince her to join in a practice session for his magic. Lately, he'd been practicing mudras and had found it a relaxing exercise. Something that Danna might enjoy.

Danna took a deep breath and began to calm herself. She was getting ahead of herself, and as she began to make progress in her friendship with Astaroth she was opening up more and more. Still, she felt as though she should be careful and she made a conscious note to step back, to let go of his hand, to calm herself down. "I'm...sorry." She murmured hastily, wincing slightly as she saw his smile thin. "I...got carried away."

He nodded once, brightening once again as she moved back. "You're forgiven." Astaroth offered a smile, as a sort of apology. He just didn't like getting very close to anyone, even Danna. It just rubbed him the wrong way. Though he mentally smacked himself when she winced - he liked her company and wanted to be around her and she was a physical person. He'd have to get used to it if he wanted to be around her. Shutting her down every time wasn't progressive at all. The more he thought the more he looked disappointed in himself. He was Astaroth. More then capable of adapting to situations. Why couldn't get just let Danna hold his hands? It made her happy.... and that's what counted wasn't it? He bit his lower lip in frustration, angry at himself.

"are you...sure you're all right?" Danna asked with growing concern. He looked decidedly upset about something. Had she done something wrong? It must have been her, he'd seemed perfectly fine before she'd stepped so close. Frettfully she took another step back and began to compulsively fiddle with the strap of her satchel. She darted her gaze about, raking her brain for the right thing to say or do. But with Astaroth she often found herself double-guessing, confounded and unsure. She stood awkwardly in silence.

Astaroth glanced up, his hard expression softening immediately as he saw her in distress, "I'm...." He didn't want to admit it but he couldn't help it as he sensed how confused she was. It didn't become her at all, making him frown all the more, "I... I'm angry at myself." There he'd said it. Not very elegantly but he'd said it. He didn't like seeing her so distraught and immediately felt even worse for causing her worry. Rising, he opened his arms to her, "It's not you, Danna. It's me. I know you're a very hands on person.... I just don't seem to be able to handle that." He stopped, and bit his tongue, that's not the vein he wanted to follow so he tried again, "What I mean is I... I'm upset with myself for not being able to hold you as you want. As I want." He sighed, believing he wasn't being very clear at all, "I'm sorry." His arms were still spread, almost beckoning, and he resolved that if she came to him he wouldn't shy away. Wouldn't hurt her again. This was his problem, not hers.

Dannastill looked confused, but at least her worries were allayed, and she relaxed somewhat, taking a single step back towards him and offering a warm smile. "I'm not sure who is more awkward out of the two of us," She said softly. "Me with attempting to not touch, and you trying to touch..."

He smiled at that, "Meet in the middle then. It's most logical." As he spoke he dropped his and stepped forward. "It's at least a starting point." Astaroth stood there, accepting the critique meekly, not sure what else he could do. It wasn't as simple as relaxing, like before - or at least he didn't think it was. Breathing deeply, he let the tension ease from his shoulders and his eyes fluttered closed.

Danna wasn't sure if Astaroth had been speaking literally or metaphorically, and so, watching him carefulyl she stepped forward herself, so that she was mere inches from him and breathed deeply of his delicate fragrance, the one that reminded her so much of lillies and rain.

Astaroth mere nodded and took a cookie - he'd had quite a few now, it seemed. He wondered at that as he bit small pieces off, glancing from Danna and back again. Not that he was going to complain. Moving so that he could push a chair up behind her, he motioned for her to sit before replacing his chair where it had been so that they were close. Their knees would touch if both sat down. Smiling, he did just that. "Have a seat."

Danna took a tentative seat, still watching Astaroth with eyes that were expecting something miraculous to happen. She wasn't sure what, but something seemed to be happening, and Danna felt as though she were missing the point entirely. She shifted her satchel as she slid to cofort on the chair, lifting it into her lap so that it would not cross the invisible line etween the chairs and bump Astaroth. Her knees met slightly to one side and her flat-soled shoes touched toe to toe on the floor beneath the chair, with heels angled out.

He laughed, "I'm not going to -do- anything. I just want to be close." He watched her curiously, wondering if she expected him to do something. The look in her eyes certainly said as much, compelling him to think of anything to do so that wonderful shine in her eyes wouldn't dull. Touch. She liked touching... but what that wouldn't upset him immediately? His gaze fell to his hands where they stayed, as though trying to read some sort of invisible instruction in them. He should do something at the very least... curling his fingers and then flexing them, he suddenly had an idea. "Did you want to learn a mudra? After you mentioned them, I looked them up and learned a couple. Mainly ones that help with relaxation and awareness. The other ones I'd rather wait for the class before attempting." He reached out, had hovering over hers, seeking permission first. Astaroth could help but smile, he would work on not shying away from the touch of others but doubted he'd ever be able to simply touch without asking.'

Danna nodded eagerly, watching his hands for instruction. "Yes, I'd love to!" She replied, easing into relaxation again. She held both of her hands up and then looked at him. "How should I start?"

Lover's Duel - response

I found the duel to be useful. While beautiful I still do not understand why Dameron would choose to lay bare his heart in front of so many. It's a foolish thing to do - his personal life is his and his alone. No one should be privy to that.

And the fact that Dameron would submit. Crawl back to his lover like some wounded puppy was disgraceful. He just threw his pride away. I was angry that someone I looked up would be so very weak. How could he stand to be in the presence of someone who had cheated on him? Broken the bond of trust and faith that would have to be there for a relationship to even exist? How?

... If I entrusted my heart to someone and they treated it so careless I would spurn their very existence. I do not forgive easily and such an act would sever any and all ties I would have with that person.

Conversely, I would never dream of breaking the trust of my loved one. My heart and body, as it were, would one and only one person's.... That's the vow I've made to myself and the vow I'll repeat to the one I dedicate myself to.

But enough intensity. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Danna. She was excellent company and I hope to see more of her. Sure, she's annoying at times but there's... something special about her. I doubt she sees it, she's far too self conscious, but she's earnest and, well, special.

I hesitate to write this here, but were I to fall I think it would be for her.

spare

Impressions

Math is fascinating! It seems to click with me - every time I answered a question or tried to theorize on my own, I was correct. It was incredibly fulfilling. I think I will make an effort to keep substitution in mind while progressing through my other classes - the possibilities are endless.

It was a wonderful first class.

Notes

free period

July Event - Chess Match between Bardane and Requiem