The launch away from Onyx was a bit awkward considering the gator had been blocking the way in front and she was almost as massive as the dragon behind.  The matron of the house simply watched on for a moment, though, giving Niassa time to settle after the shock she'd had.  Celeste almost stopped Rose from approaching the wolf, but thankfully, Niassa wasn't quite startled enough to act out against the smaller housemate.  Then, it was Onyx's turn to respond.  She had surprised Niassa, but an explanation was due, if not to the dragoness, then certainly to Celeste for the source of the unexpected outburst.<br/><br/>There was something in that last bit that caught the gator's attention, though.  'Better dead than captured.'  Was that in reference to men in general or herself facing the kinds of men who might capture her in her previous work as a mercenary?<br/><br/>"Hold on."  Celeste chimed in, wading between Niassa and Onyx, not blocking their view of each other, but making it clear she wanted their attention, "Onyx isn't a normal man.  Besides, maybe there's something else she could do for you."  Celeste asked, casting a glance back at the dragoness with a raised eyebrow.