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[wildgift]

[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.

Comments

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

Did the Bards fail to teach you etiquette? [Oh but he's smiling.]

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[wildgift]

That, I think, would depend on who you ask.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

It seems like I'm asking you.

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[wildgift]

Then the answer is yes, though it's much more fun to ignore it.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

You would be dangerous in a political marriage.

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[wildgift]

[He makes a face]

There isn't much anyone could gain from wedding me. If they even would, knowing what I am.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

I have to disagree with you on both of those points.

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[wildgift]

Would you care to elaborate?

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

There is much you have to offer. Anyone who found themselves wed to you should consider themselves blessed. They would have a good friend if nothing else - and that's more than I can say for most arranged marriages.

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[wildgift]

Fair enough, I suppose. As it stands, as accepting of a place Valdemar is, any man would rather see his daughter wed to a goat than a shaych. And believe me, I've no desire to be tied to a woman.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

There will always be those that are too close-minded to understand the struggles of others.

[He wrinkles his nose in distaste, grey eyes dark.]

If word of my leanings had gotten out, I don't doubt that I would have suffered a beating every day. Fortunately Aunt Savil protected me. Then, after my Gifts appeared, no one dared to touch me.

I suppose there is something to be said of being feared.

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[wildgift]

I suppose I should be thankful I at least had the Collegium by then. Still, I did get in my fair share of fights over it.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

If anyone threatens you here, tell me. [He nudges their foreheads together for a brief moment.] Neither of us is alone.

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[wildgift]

I will. Thank you.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

You'll be doing me a favor. No thanks is needed.

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[wildgift]

How is that a favor?

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

Putting a stop to bullying is enjoyable.

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[wildgift]

You can be truly frightening when you put your mind to it.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

I don't mean to frighten you.

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[wildgift]

I'm not frightened. I don't believe you'd hurt me.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

Not on purpose. [He can promise that on just this meeting alone. The delightful sensation of the bond and Stefen's own charm - which is entirely natural and unfeigned - have ensured that.]

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[wildgift]

Don't be so depressing.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

My apologies. [His laugh comes easier this time and his eyes warm.] I can be that way.

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[wildgift]

You should work on that.

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[vanyel_ashkevron]

I could use a tutor.