Illyana let herself wallow for a moment in her sadness, remembering birthdays gone by and what a happy day they had been for the two of them. Because of Illy's deformity, she had a high sensitivity to the feelings of those around her, and often it was hard to block them out even if she tried. Most of the time, she was ostracized from her family, staying away for her parent's sakes as well as her own. She could feel the disappointment and fear in the air every time her mother and father remembered her existence, and it had always been...unpleasant. 

However, the twins' birthday had always been a cause for celebration in the family. To Illyana, it felt like the one day that her parents could be happy with her nearby. On top of that, birthdays always made Isabella extremely happy, and because of their connection Illyana felt her feelings as if they were her own. It was the one day a year that she felt loved, and she had missed it...

Aurel's voice brought her out of her reverie just as she began to sink deeper into despair. [color=598527]"Hm...?"[/color] she hummed absently as she glanced up at him with eyes full of sorrow. As her mind deciphered what he had said, this look slowly began to change back to neutrality. Her eyes widened a bit at the suggestion and she glanced at the snake and then back at Aurel. [color=598527]"Um..."[/color] she said, her voice a little shakey. Her trepidation did not lie with holding the creature, she could sense that it had a connection to Aurel and that he wouldn't offer this to her unless he knew it was safe. However, it was the look between the young man and his companion that solidified her decision. Although she could not hear the words, she understood the snake's intentions and knew he was giving his permission.

Eventually, she nodded slowly and an almost imperceptible smile played out across her lips. [color=598527]"Yes, if that's okay..."[/color] she said, and held out both hands as Aurel offered the creature over to her.

She felt the weight as the snake slithered onto her and was glad that she was strong enough to support him. She knew that she was small for her age and understood that this came with a decrease in strength as well. The creature was cool to the touch, and the snakes were softer and more smooth than she looked. He slid up her arm a bit and coiled his tail around her wrist. She almost giggled as his tongue flicked out and tickled the inside of her arm.

[color=598527]"Wow..."[/color] she said slowly, staring into the eyes of the animal. He exuded a protective feeling, similar to that of Faolan. She felt safe holding him, and this showed itself in her expression along with the wonder that touched her eyes. Although she hadn't noticed this change and was completely absorbed in what was happening. [color=598527]"What's his name?"[/color] she asked, glancing up at Aurel briefly and then looking back down at the snake.