[img]https://i.imgur.com/fCa90aX.jpg[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/h131DW9.jpg[/img] A bemused look grew across Dean's face as Ash spilled the beans. Though truth be told he couldn't outright laugh at the woman. Even in such a diluted state, Dawn's aura tended to be potent to those who hadn't had the chance to be around it and become acclimated. A snort did escape him however regarding her lack of makeup skills. Every mage had some degree of laziness that they relegated to "Just use magic" and he would forever be smug about that fact. [color=8dc73f][b]"It's a truth spell, and you aren't forced to say anything you don't want to, Just not lie.[/b][/color] He shrugged nonchalantly as Golem sank into the earth behind him. The spirit content with the situation but choosing not to return to its diminutive form anytime soon. Maybe the ol'Box of Rocks didn't like being called cute? eh, didn't matter right now. [color=8dc73f][b]"Now then, we are going to go back to my place, I'm going to offer you breakfast and some coffee, and then you are free to go about your business unmolested."[/b][/color] Dean talked in a way that made it clear this wasn't up for debate before swinging around on his heel and marching down the street in the direction of his house. Without turning his head back to check, he was more then sure that Ash was following him in dazed confusion and muted silence trying not to accidentally blurt out anything else embarrassing. Well . . . that and a mage not able to lie and keep their spellcraft secret among the mundane without years of practice was NOT great. And wouldn't leave her with other options of where to go right now. which [i]Definitely[/i] wasn't a part of his plan. Nope, not at all. [hr] A bundle of high tension springs, cables and restrains fell to the ground with a resounding clang. The tinker-made resistant suit worked like a dream. Alex felt worn for the first time in month from his workout. Working up a burn and sweat with superhuman biology and endurance took some work, but damn did was it satisfyingly to finally feel a workout. Almost comically large weights and dumbbell were moved back onto their racking before he toweled himself off. Before heading back upstairs, Alex glanced at his workbench. Laying next to the worn and scared pieced of his original suit was the dull gleam of bronze. While the black and grey tactical style wasn't a bad look, Alex's powers weren't really conducive for stealth and sneaking around. He figured if his powers were always obvious when in use, he might as well go the extra mile and make himself even more visible. there was something to be said about heroes and rogues with highly visible costumes. The idea behind it had logical reasoning. If you could be seen coming and were so obvious in a crowd, you could easily draw attention away from civilians, points of interest, or less durable teammates. With Alex having to arbitrate the big meeting tonight, he figured an upgrade in his look was finally warranted. Keeping the original bodysuit and utilities, every armor piece was now bronze with simple white trim. All of it was a lot more carefully worked and shaped. The gladiatorial skirt and other remaining cloth elements were a shade of blue similar to his powers. Honestly the only thing that would make it more professionally done would probably be greco-roman Meandering style engravings and patterns. Part of him questioned if he was worth wearing it after yesterday. He shook the thought away. [color=deepskyblue][b]" I Deserve this. New suit, better me. Just keep moving forward."[/b][/color] He repeated his words of encouragement mentally as he ascended the stairs. He needed a shower. and possibly second breakfast. yeah second breakfast sounded nice. [hr] Humming happily to himself, the large man prepared an omelet as the rice cooker buzzed. Now he wasn't entirely sure what kind of beast the eggs had come from. But they tasted similar to duck and were safe to eat so why complain? plus they smelled great! some light seasoning was added to the eggs he had been beating before prepping the pan. That was about the time the front door was opened. [color=8dc73f][b]"I'm Home! I got a surprise guest. And its not who you think it is."[/b][/color] Dean laughed to himself. Right up until he noticed Alex cooking with no shirt on or apron for that matter. [color=8dc73f][b]"Dude! Put a shirt on!"[/b][/color] Dean made a scene of covering his eyes and turning away dramatically. Alex Chuckled at his friends dramatic dismay. Only becoming confused when he turned to greet their newest "guest." [color=deepskyblue][b]"I'm not always the sharpest tool in the shed . . . but . . . um."[/b][/color] The himbo was flummoxed seeing the woman before him that looked like his friend and templar guest but wasn't if Dean's statement was true. Seconds ticked by as he stared and try to process the situation. He eventually looked back to Dean. [color=deepskyblue][b]"You didn't bring a [i]Stranger[/i] into our home did you?"[/b][/color] Instead of giving a helpful answer, Dean bust out laughing. Leaving Alex more confused then before.