[indent][hr][center][img]https://txt-dynamic.static.1001fonts.net/txt/b3RmLjk2LmNlZjU4Zi5SWEpwY3lCVFlXMWhaV3csLjQA/mafakanev.regular.png[/img][/center] [hr][indent] The fact that he didn't get an eyeroll or his third exasperated sigh was surprising enough, but Varis managed to knock Eris on his ass with his response. Eris' expression seemed to be stuck between disbelief and glee. He wasn't actually serious. Or was he? He was! As Eris fought his internal questioning, on the outside the star was struck by clear surprise before long. A laugh out of disbelief escaped him, his reaction barely contained as he covered his grin with his free hand. Well shit, he got him good. That said, he had forgotten Maxwell's existence until he spoke, and Eris' amusement took a nosedive for the worse, immediately closing his eyes as his irritation got to him. Tripping over the finish line, rookie mistake. And he was doing so--actually, he wasn't doing well, but Eris had mistakenly assumed the mage would know better than to come up with a retort in public. At the very least, staying quiet meant he knew how to shut up, but no, Eris had expected too much out of the kid since apparently he thought it was okay to talk like that. And in front of Varis, no doubt, which only made it worse. It looked like he would have to dedicate more time than he wanted to properly socializing this one. The small whine of discomfort from Maxie seemed to snap Eris out of his thoughts, not having realized his hand had squeezed the pup in his irritation. Despite not meaning to, she gave him a proper idea on how to deal with the kid. Looks like she'd serve more of a purpose than just a gift. Keeping his eyes closed, he mentally counted to three before opening them once again, flashing a brilliant grin as the usual shade of chartreuse came back. [color=ccff99]"Oh, you know how hard of hearing little ones are. Comprehension isn't usually their strong suit, either,"[/color] He replied cheerfully, free hand petting Maxie in comfort as he walked. He supposed a muzzle wasn't the worst idea, but if a little public humiliation would teach him the needed lesson, then so be it. He might need that second leash after all. As they arrived, Eris cast a glance around the place. It was bigger than he anticipated, reminding him of the small grocery mart near his own place. Several rows of plants, powders, and bottled liquids could be seen right away. A sign marked 'Modern Medicines' pointed to the far end of the store, a section dedicated to wands and other magical items close by, and a locked bookcase behind the counter. Magic was alright and all, but since he couldn't use it, it wasn't as interesting to him as it used to be. That said, he did want a little payback to make himself feel better. He motioned for Varis to stay back, knowing the vampire wasn't a fan of Eris' little displays. The blond then perked up as he looked at his dull minded mage, patting his head as he looked at him lovingly. [color=ccff99]"Whenever you decide on what you're getting, let me know. Try not to be shy,"[/color] Eris spoke to him slowly, his tone sweet as he pinched his cheek. His entire demeanor had changed, putting on a show of a caring, nurturing vampire. After all, if Max was going to act like a child, he would be treated like one. [color=ccff99]"Should I have one of the associates help you out? You know what, I'll get you someone to help."[/color] The blond looked around and spotted an employee, waving them over. [color=ccff99]"Excuse me, could you help out my poor mage?"[/color] He called, giving the guy a pleading look. [color=ccff99]"He really needs a focus for his affinity, but all this magic stuff goes completely over my head! I'd feel so much better knowing he was in your capable hands."[/color] He looked back at Max, smiling. [color=ccff99]"Be nice to the employee, okay? They're here to help you,"[/color] He assured Max, giving him a wink as he would step back, leaving the mage with the employee. [/indent][hr][/indent] [sub][right]Into the Apocethary with: [@Achronum][@Scribe of Thoth][/right][/sub]