Emberwood Across the violet sky

In some weird, unexplained way, he was kind of charming - and cocky. He wasn't her type, too old for one, but it made her blush beyond belief - the redness traveling as far as her ears 'neath a silvery coat. She cleared her throat, suddenly finding a leaf near her shoulder the most interesting thing in the world at that second. Was he like this with everyone? She wasn't much of a flirt, and thus forgot to tease him about it.

Maybe. She answered with a slight shrug as an answer to his sarcastic question. She was unsure herself if she was joking. She'd probably advise against it if her friends were going to be reckless like that, hoping to help them deal with whatever they were facing that made them want to do it - but she was probably just reading too far into all this. He had a point, but his words did have her wondering one particular thing. As he stepped closer, she didn't turn to avoid it - she approached on her own, having to strain her neck to look up at him. But why? She asked. What makes you unable to discontinue savagery, turn over a new leaf? She was genuine and curious - worried all the same. He was so close to becoming someone - so close to being good. Or was it an act to impress her in particular? She wanted to understand and know the truth of what had twisted this man into becoming what he had.

She blinked up at him with wide eyes expectantly, her fears erased as her interest was piqued.