Terrence's backside was broad and well muscled, thick in a way that was mesmerizing to anyone with sense. Eloise had sense... though she couldn't decide if she wanted to feel those muscles... or bite into them. She imagined Terrence was quite gamey, after years of doing whatever it was men like him did in these tunnels. No, he probably made a better tour guide than snack. Too bad.

The faintest sound of tiny wings drew her attention away from her guide and she watched idly as her insect companion flew ahead to perch itself upon Terrence's ear. Patterson must have the same train of thought as her for she could see him gearing up for a nibble. She gave a soft snort, and unspoken warning to her companion. No, we can't eat him.

Patterson looked about as pouty as a beetle could and decided to sit on top of the man's head instead. This gave the man a chuckle and he turned to look back at Eloise who quickly plastered a doe eyed facade and a girlish giggle.

"I think he likes you Terrence Dear. He is not nearly that friendly with most. You must have a gentle soul and a connection to the Earth's inner aura."

Her voice came out airy and soft like a waif and she internally cringed at the tree hugger bull shit she had spewed at the man. Must keep up appearances... men don't like strong, powerful women. She had learned long ago while watching her mother... sometimes to get ahead one had to act a bit air headed and dim. Wide eyes and soft voices could get a girl just about anything she wanted in this world.

She want one to want everything handed to her the way her mother had been. No, Eloise liked to work for what she had. However, it never hurt to have a big strong man on your side. Besides... she could work for what she wanted and STILL have someone around to carry her things right?

"He is a cute little fella"

Terrence replied with a wide smile, teeth flashing her way. It was a well rehearsed display of charm that amused the mare. Everyone had a mask... not just her. When he turned back around however, her own smile was quick to fade back into the look of contempt she liked to wear when no one was watching. Did he really think those pearly whites would work on her?

Her reverie was once again broken by a sound, this time the sound of metal clanking off of stone. She looked up in time to see her canteen bouncing off of the path and landing in the lava running along side them with an ominous plop. Her eyes followed the assumed path the canteen had taken and rested on the proud form of Patterson sitting on top of the pack Terrence was wearing. He had apparently decided to lash out due to being told NO. He was an awfully defiant thing for something small enough to crush with no effort at all.

The mare's deep scowl was quickly replaced with a surprised and slightly worried wide eyed stare as her guide turned back to look at her once more.

"Don't worry ma'am, I will share my water with you."