Thread: Allure of the Neophyte ::-Haru/whizz-::

The compliment that was given was received in a glowing hue of red, one that started from the tip of Cosette's cheekbones and extended all the way down the sweet, round flesh. Despite the heat she felt, however, the witch smiled, giving a little flourish of her skirts as if to 'show off.' Why thank you, Master Ryuu! She responded cheerfully, full lips turning upward in an bashful smile. I must admit, I think blue is one of my best colours. That, or I got so used to wearing it in Etridus, I can't imagine donning much else. Laughter pearled from her mouth at the little joke she made, for Cosette did not yet know the dichotomy between innocence and corruption that was beginning to fester in her mentor's mind, and his hand around her own only deepened the hue on her face from the suddenness of the action. That and, to a lesser extent, she always associated the gesture as being close and intimate with another person less she be leading a child, of course , so it took her a moment to adjust. Ryuu's hand was smooth and cool, however, and Cosette found herself rather enjoying the way he lead her forward to explore the expansive library that seemed to be filled with more books than the woman could ever hope to read in her lifetime. She took in the sight with awe-stuck eyes the books, the fireplace and even the ladder. Such a collection could have easily rivaled Etridus, and she had to wonder if they had thought to invest in his expertise. It was a question she did not think to voice, but he would no doubt hear her wonder in it and in the observatory above. Cosette was quite sure that she could live on those two floors alone -- moving only to the kitchen when she needed something to eat. Sleep was an unfortunate sacrifice when there was so much to learn, and the young woman imagined her nights by the telescope studying the stars and making charts like some of her teacher's did back home. However, they were not done, and soon the young maiden was lead to the laboratory and told of yet another floor beneath it, one that Ryuu stressed she was not permitted to see. While curious, Cosette accepted these terms easily enough as she would much rather live with her curiosity then defy him and loose her mentor all together. With that, however, their tour was completed, and the passage of time was long enough that their dinner would soon be ready for those who were hungry enough to dine. For Cosette, who had mostly survived on bread, cheese and a little bit of meat, the heartier meal was anticipated with vigor. Traveling was never easy, and what was provided generally only stated one's base needs. In comparison, she was very spoiled. The hue that had faded over the course of their small trip returned tenfold when Ryuu paused, and the hand he still had enclosed in his was lifted so that his fingers could brush against the surface of her skin. With the sweat and dirt of travel stripped from her form, Cosette smelled faintly of mint and winter lilies -- a mild fragrance likely born of plants easily grown around her once home. It was pleasant however if not reinforcing the innocence that she held, and the poor girl just about stumbled over her words as she tried to answer his question. N-Not... really, Master Ryuu. Well -- yes, I-I suppose? I drank a little wine on special occasions, but not enough to get drunk. The teachers do not, um... it is unwise for one to get inebriated in front of their mentors, no? She shook her head wildly back and forth. That is to say... if you are providing a little while, I-I should be happy to partake.