One can learn more of a man not by studying his achievements, but rather the manner in which he achieved them…
Blackthorne released his grip on the Dark Elf's hand, but kept his gaze fixed onto those horrible red eyes.
"So now what?" The elf asked while keeping his own unwavering stare on Blackthorne.
"I spend most of my time studying at the guild hall in Cheydinhal, a fair sized city not far from here. You can follow my companion and I as we return there, if you like.'
"Grand. Lead on, Human." Human was spoken more like a title now than an insult.
Blackthorne broke his gaze and turned towards Varilus, satisfied. There weren't many, Man or Mer, who could stand unfazed in his stare. Varilus did not share his joy, and was frowning when Blackthorne approached.
"The new Associate will accompany us on our return venture to Cheydinhal."
Varilus looked at the Dunmer with a haughty air of superiority, tainted by a hint of fear that came across as annoyance. "Does the Associate have a name?"
The Dunmer glared at Varilus with an equal sense of superiority, without the fear aspect. "You may call, me Prisoner, Human."
"Prisoner?" He chuckled slightly as he spoke. "What kind of name is that?"
"It's better than Human."
"'Human' is not my name, 'Prisoner'"
"Oh?" Prisoner's face was full of mock amusement.
"My name is Varilus, Varilus Benrin."
"Hm?" The elf yawned. "I think I'll stick with Human."
Varilus's face had reached such a hue of red, he appeared purple. Blackthorne didn't bother hiding his amusement. "Are you ill, my friend?"
"No, thanks for asking." He spoke haltingly, enuciating each word, careful not to say the wrong thing. It would not do to be officially marked as opposed to Blackthorne's recruitment decision.
"In that case, we should head back to Cheydinhal immediately, for as you said, we have no horses."
