Kerebos, it was eventually concluded, would not be returning that evening. Perhaps tomorrow or maybe even the day after next... There was no telling for sure but they had no reason to worry as of yet. Cleyo mentioned that Kerebos was likely out to check whether their supplies had been dropped off yet; they were supposed to be here last week but the political issues overseas had been causing delays recently. (It wasn't as much a problem as it was an inconvenience since both Cleyobanthan and Kerebos knew how to live off the land if push came to shove.) So, Auium and Cleyo settled on having a quiet chat for the rest of their night. The crackling fireplace and rumbling thunder provided a sort of charming background ambiance and soon enough the pair dozed off. Eventually Cleyo roused and padded off to bed with a sleepy 'goodnight' and Auium promised she'd follow shortly. Alone with only her thoughts to keep her company, Auium decided she wanted to delay sleep and simply enjoy the quiet for now.

Then came the banging on the door.

At first Auium thought maybe she was imagining it. Maybe that was the thunder or the wind knocking something over. Surely that wasn't Kerebos, was it? No. Her ward knew there would be no need to knock and could enter or leave as she pleased. Auium considered ignoring it but the chill running up her spine, which in turn caused the hairs along her back to raise on end, prompted further action. Cautiously, Auium rose. "Cleyo" she hissed. Why was she whispering? There would be no way anyone outside would be able to hear her but for some reason the idea of a stranger wanting to come in frightened the little cervitaur. Auium tip-toed back to the bedroom and shook her companion awake. Cleyo slurred something along the lines of "I'm awake" and yawned but didn't stir much. 

"There's someone here" Auium told him. The hybrid opened his eyes but did not stir. 
"What do you mean?" he slurred.
"At the door."
"Are you sure?"
"[b]Cleyo[/b]."
"Alright, alright. I'm up."

Auium had never once been afraid her companions. Sure the both of them were there to watch over her, keep her safe and make sure she was properly cared for. But she'd only ever really seen them as family. Feeling ashamed during a proper scolding wasn't the same as shying from an intimidating stranger screaming at you. It hadn't ever quite sunk in that Cleyo was here to [i]protect her[/i] until this moment. Cleyo's sphinx half granted him his lithe build and graceful movements, while his elf half added height and sharpened features. He wasn't particularly frightening at first glance. However now Auium could really see the bulk, the sinuous cords of muscle forming his frame as he rose with purpose to investigate the issue at hand. "Stay here" he told her, then stalked off. Auium didn't need to be told twice and sank to the mattress much like a doe awaiting its mother's return.