Me and You and Awkward Silence

Siora listened intently, her eyes never leaving Danny's as he spoke. Every word he said was measured carefully in her mind, weighed against her own instincts and the harsh lessons the city had already begun to teach her. She didn’t miss the way he respected her caution, nor did she overlook the subtle undercurrent of familiarity in his tone when he mentioned the places he suggested. Both options had their merits, but each came with its own set of risks.

She nodded slowly, acknowledging his advice. The Hanged Man sounds like my kind of place. Easier to get lost in. And if it’s got the sort of clientele you say, then maybe I won’t be the odd one out.

Her hand slipped away from her boot, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. It wasn’t that she trusted Danny - trust was too strong a word for someone she’d just met in an alley - but she recognized that he wasn’t out to harm her. At least, not right now. He seemed more interested in giving her a fighting chance, and that was more than she could say for most people she’d encountered in life so far.

Elvhen Alienage, though… She hesitated, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face. I’ve heard enough to know it’s not exactly welcoming to outsiders, but you’re right - they’re not likely to ask questions. And I’d rather not answer any more than I have to.

She shifted her lute onto her back, the familiar weight grounding her. The choice was clear now. The Hanged Man was her best bet. It offered anonymity, a place to blend in and listen, and maybe even a chance to earn some coin if she could charm the right people. She didn’t want to hide in the Alienage, cut off from information and trapped by her own need for secrecy.

I’ll try the Hanged Man first, she said, her voice firming up as she made her decision. And if it gets too hot, I’ll head to the Alienage.

She took a deep breath, feeling a little more in control now that she had a plan. Thanks for the advice… Danny. The name rolled off her tongue, still unfamiliar, but she committed it to memory, just in case. She knew she’d probably need it sooner or later in this city.

Siora started to turn, ready to leave the alley and put some distance between herself and this strange encounter, but she paused, glancing back at Danny one last time. You’re right - I don’t know you, and you don’t know me. But… I’ll keep your name in mind. You seem like someone who knows how to handle themselves, and in this city, that’s worth something. Maybe our paths will cross again. I won’t charge you for a song.

With that, she offered him a small, guarded smile, nothing more than a brief quirk of her lips, and then she turned away, making her way toward the main street. She moved with purpose now, but the knot of tension in her stomach had loosened just a bit, yet something niggled. Letting out a sigh, the young woman turned back, Bet that fight made you thirsty though, yeah?

@Danny