"I mean my partner."<br/><br/>He did it again, speaking out of place, placing strangers in an uncomfortable spot. He could smell the discomfort in her blood. Meric silently scolded himself for doing so.<br/><br/>"Yes. I'm a familiar. Formally registered partner of Dustin Raight..."<br/><br/>As Elanor continued explaining her situation, her words stirred a discomfort within him as well. Her experiences reminded Meric of the ones he escaped from two years ago - not quite the same storyline, but similar enough to twist his disgust over how this one Familiar has had to live in order to gain success at this place of - higher learning. He knew he was not well educated about exactly how the whole process worked for Familiars, but Meric knew there should be a more humane way to gain respect and prestige than that.<br/><br/>"So I am glad you helped me get out of there before me trying to have a homework buddy caused the cafeteria to become the latest annex to the Tower's arena. The faculty would probably frown on that."<br/><br/>With a calmed grin, Meric bowed his head again, "By all means, I'm happy to be of service." He paused a moment, considering his words carefully to avoid other issues. "I, um... may consider your offer soon. That is, when you're ready to... move on." He paused, taking a step back before tipping his head once more. "It would do me some good to meet more friends, I think. Perhaps, you can be the first."<br/><br/>Glancing at the tower clock at the library, Meric concluded that his library rendezvous will have to wait till later. By the time he crosses the campus, it will be time for the dueling event. "Are you going to the dueling exhibition? If so, may I escort you?"