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[This one looks rather ostentatious, though it isn't really through any choice of his own. He's red haired and dressed in Scarlets, muttering to himself and trying not to look too concerned. He's actually doing quite a good job of it, though the look in his eyes might give him away to anyone who knows how to read it.]

Safest Bard in Haven, indeed. [Never mind that he'd been the one to say that.] When Vanyel hears of this, I'll never hear the end of it. [Here he adopts a different tone, clearly imitating someone else.]

"Do you see, Stefen? I was right. My enemies will only use you against me." [Sigh.] Yes, he certainly needed another excuse to try and be rid of me.

Hellsteeth.

[He takes a few cautious glances around, but shakes his head. Apparently he doesn't like much of what he sees, but he does at least try to give an endearing, albeit self-deprecating smile.]

Would someone mind please informing me as to where I am? I'm afraid I've not much to provide in the way of a reward for your help, but I would certainly appreciate it. I'm sure I can find some way to repay you.

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[A true laugh follows, unrestrained and Vanyel has to catch his breath before he responds.]

Terrifying! Have mercy on me, Bard Stefen.

I just might, Herald Vanyel. Seeing as you're far too beautiful for your own good.

I imagine there are plenty who outshine me. [He has let his peacock tendencies go - for the most part. There are scars on his body and calluses on his hands and feet.]

Not really, no. And I've seen my share of the beauties.

You've always known your preference? I didn't know it was possible until I came to the Collegium.

[He blushes and looks away.]

I suppose I was the quintessential sheltered child.

Since I was old enough to have one, I suppose. But I'd never really had anyone who told me I had to be otherwise.

Withen never told me I couldn't be that way. He just...impressed upon me...the importance of courting women. I wasn't truly a man unless I bedded them.

I suppose I didn't have that problem either.

Your guardians were either open and caring or...

[Something far, far worse.]

Tell me about your childhood?

[Again, he hesitates, biting his lip as he tries to think of the least horrifying thing to say. After a few moments, though, he sighs.]

I came from the streets. The old hag who "took care of me" drank or drugged away anything we could beg, and it only got worse once she learned she could make more by making me sing than by dressing me in rags and bandages. [He fights back a shudder at the memory, but continues.] Eventually Lynell wandered her way past and heard me. She decided I needed to be snatched for the service of Valdemar and I ended up at the Collegium. I was ten, I think. I don't really know for certain. But it's the best guess I have.

Stefen... [The name is breathed and his grey eyes are filled with empathy. He can't even begin to understand the horrors Stefen faced, but he knows he hates imagining any child in that position. It's something he wants to put a stop to. Every child deserves a roof over their head, food in their belly and safety.]

I'm so glad Bard Lynell found you. We need you dearly.

[He smiles a little.]

You need to choose your favorite day of the year.

I...don't know that I have one.

Think about it. I would like to celebrate your name day.

You would, too. And what's all this about a man named "Demonsbane" not being able to be romantic?

I'll think about it.

Name days should be celebrated. I don't see how that's particularly romantic. [Though he realizes he wants it to be.] After everything you've been through and then you seek me out...

You deserve it.

I find it to be incredibly so. [And that makes him smile.]

As I said, I'll think about it. You'll certainly be the first to know if I decide something.

[He gives into temptation and kisses Stefen's smile.]

Give me plenty of time to prepare. I'm not sure what this kingdom holds in store for us.

Beyond battle.

I'm not looking forward to that bit. But I'll do my best.

Stay close to me if things get out of hand. Protecting myself and another isn't difficult unless we're faced with practiced Mages.

I assure you, Herald Vanyel, I will do my utmost to ensure that I do not leave your sight in such an instance. I'm afraid I've grown rather fond of living and I'd hate to cease doing it.

I'm growing fond of seeing you alive, so we can agree on that point. Besides, what good are Gifts if you can't use them?

I don't know. But it is good to know that I won't be left to the wolves.

Never. [It's a solemn promise.] You're stuck with me too.

I can't say as I mind much if I am.

I pray that doesn't change.

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