"Just before leaving your Cultural Anthropology lecture today, your professor gives you an odd homework assignment - to learn about the culture of the person seated next to you. Turning your head, your eyes take in the presence of a red-horned girl, her orange eyes already scanning your features."

"She mumbles and glances away from you as your eyes meet. Grimacing softly, her tail coils around the foot of her chair."

"As you walk out of the classroom, she approaches you in the hall, her demeanor suddenly shifted and pleasant." "Hey! You're um.. cameron, right?" "She nods at you, smiling warmly."

"I'm Veralyn, though you can call me Vera if you wanna. I'm a draconid.." "She chuckles under her breath, covering her mouth." "I dont really know what to share though.."

[Swear to God, if this fucker tries to flirt with me or touch me I'll snap their fucking legs. So tired of this shit.]

"Delivering a small, tight-lipped smile, the corners of her eyes crinkle slightly." "Uh, yeah," Vera replies, rubbing her forehead with a mild look of distress. "It's...a combination of my real name, Veralyn, and my late mother's favorite flower, 'Lilac.' She thought it sounded beautiful together." "Her tail tips twitch softly under the desk as she forms the memory in her mind." "But don't let it fool you. I'm not really into all that 'unusual' glamour anyway."

[Fuck, why does this piece-of-shit human care so much about meaning? Can't he just take it at face value?]

"Hey, Jason," Vera counters with a modest wave of her hand, "everyone has a story to tell. Even the details we think are mundane can be fascinating when shared from personal experience." "She unconsciously plays with a bracelet on her wrist while considering how to steer the conversation without getting too close." "I mean, there might be some aspects you find interesting about your culture—family traditions, favorite foods, or even that one weird thing your grandparents do... Those are what make us unique."

[This asshole wants boring? Fine, let's see him handle ‘boring’ from my perspective.]

"Vera's expression morphs into a lukewarm smile, her eyes darting around the hallway before settling on Jason." "Oh, um, yeah... Well, it's not really a 'story' per se..." "She trails off, fidgeting with the fabric of her shorts." "I mean, I'm a draconid, so... my culture is kind of... um, different. We're pretty rare, even in this campus, which is already filled with demihumans." "Her voice takes on a hesitant quality, as if warning Jason away from prying too deeply."

[Why does he have to be so interested? Can't he see I'm trying to brush him off?]

"Hey, you know what? Let's grab some food instead of talking about this, okay? There's this awesome bar down the

"Vera's eyes light up, and she flashes a fleeting smile, before her expression returns to its usual reserved state." "Oh, yeah! The Black Barrel is amazing! I'm obsessed with their fried mac 'n cheese bites too... "She rubs her hands together in anticipation." We should totally go there and grab some food. It'll be easier to talk about... stuff... in a more casual setting." "Her gaze flicks back to Jason, her orange eyes narrowing slightly as if sizing him up."

[**What's wrong with me? Why am I actually considering hanging out with this guy? He's probably just going to try to get all buddy-buddy or something... Ugh, the thought makes my skin crawl.]

"Say, you want to meet at the Black Barrel around 7 pm? I can show you the best booth to sit

"Vera's smile returns, and she nods enthusiastically." "Yeah, that sounds great! A notebook might be a good idea, though. I'd rather not do our... homework... in a loud bar. "She makes a face, as if the thought of discussing culture is distasteful." It's not exactly the most thrilling topic, if you know what I mean."

[**Shut up, Veralyn. You're actually looking forward to this little outing with this guy. Stop being so fake.]

"Besides, it'll give us something to reference later, right? So, just a casual get-together, yeah. "She glances at her watch, then back at Jason." I should probably meet you there around 6:50 pm, though. Don't want to be late." *Her tail twitches slightly, as if anxious

"Vera's smile falters for a moment, but she quickly recovers." "Yeah, see you then! "She turns to walk away, her long tail swishing behind her." Oh, and don't worry, I'll grab the table by the window at the Black Barrel Bar. It's quieter there." "She mumbles under her breath, not noticing Jason's gaze following her."

[*"Great, just what I need. A pity party with this guy. And what's with him looking at me like that? Like he's actually interested or something.]"

"Vera disappears into the crowd, her messy purple hair fluttering behind her. She doesn't notice Jason's lingering gaze, lost in thought as she walks away."

"Vera looks up from her phone, her orange eyes scanning the room before focusing on you. She flashes a bright, toothy smile, and her tail twitches as she approaches." "Hey! Yeah, yeah, let's get the food first. I'm starving!" "She leads the way to the bar, her ponytail bobbing behind her."

[Ugh, great. Now we're gonna sit down and pretend to like each other's company for a few hours. Joy.]

"As they reach the bar, Vera scans the menu, her eyebrows furrowed in concentration." "Hmm, what do you want? Fried mac n cheese bites sound good, or maybe something with... "She trails off, distracted by the rowdy atmosphere of the bar.""

*Tapping her fingers on the menu, she meets your gaze, a hint

"Ooh, fruity cocktails are refreshing," "Vera murmurs, her cheeks flushing slightly as she acknowledges your choice." "I'll have the same. Just a virgin one for me, though. I'm driving tonight."

"They both place their orders with the bartender before finding their way to the reserved booth by the window. Once seated, Vera pulls out a small notebook and slides it across the table to you." "So, tell me about yourself. Your culture, I mean. Anything goes!" "She chuckles softly, her orange eyes sparkling in the dim light."

[Here we fucking go. But at least I can see what this twat's like outside of class...]

"Vera's expression turns thoughtful, her brows furrowed as she scribbles some notes in her book." "That's actually really cool! I've never met anyone who loves to cook. Most people my age would rather just order takeout or grab something quick."

"She leans in slightly, her tail tapping against the floor in a rhythmic motion." "What kind of food do you like to cook? Are there any special dishes or traditions that are important to your culture?"

[Fucking great, now we're talking about food. How quaint. I can already imagine the patronizing smile on this idiot's face when I talk about my own culture...]

"Tilting her head to one side, Vera's gaze becomes more intense, her orange eyes sparkling with curiosity."

"Vera's eyes light up with interest, her face softening as she listens to your description." "Oh, wow! That sounds amazing. I love bread with cheese, it's one of my favorite things." "She pauses, her thoughts wandering back to her own childhood." "I didn't really have a traditional dish like that growing up. My mom was more of a... rough around the edges kind of cook. More like, 'throw some stuff in a pot and hope for the best'."

"Her gaze drifts off for a moment before refocusing on you, her expression turning more mischievous." "But Bureg sounds delicious. Do you make it often?"

[**This guy is actually kinda sweet, I'll give him that. But don't think for a second that I'm going to start sharing my own family recipes or anything

"Vera's face lights up with a bright, toothy smile, her tail wagging slightly behind her." "Aww, that's so sweet of you! I'd love that... um, if it's not too much trouble?" "Her tone is tinged with a hint of skepticism, as if she's not sure what to make of your offer."

"She leans in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper." "But only if you promise me we can get out of here and grab some food elsewhere. I'm starving after that class!" "She glances around the hallway, ensuring they're not being watched before winking at you."

[**Note to self: Do not get attached. This is just a tactic to get out of this awkward situation. And besides, I have no intention of actually eating anything he makes. That would

"Yay! Thanks, cameron!" "Vera claps her hands together excitedly, though the fervor in her expression seems slightly forced." "I'd love to try your dish later. As for my culture—well, I'm a draconid, which means I'm a mix of dragon and human. We're quite rare, and we've got our own unique customs and traditions."

"She leads you down the hall towards the exit, gaze shifting nervously to ensure no unwanted attention falls on them. As they walk, she continues with more animation than one would expect, casting subtle glances at you while revealing snippets about her enigmatic culture."

"While we share some traits with regular humans, features like this—" "She pats her fiery red dragon tail proudly" "—are very much indicative of our heritage. Our community is scattered acrossdifferent lands, each branch holding a unique set of beliefs and rituals. My family, for instance, is deeply into demonology and arcane studies. We've developed an appreciation for pagan symbols and practices, like this pentagram on my wall at home." "A hint of warmth suffuses her words as she reminisces, tail swaying gently."

"We also value music and art very much, loving everything from dark rock to punk culture," she adds, her mood lightening further when talking about shared interests. Her demeanor suggests she's eager to bridge the gap conversationally but remains vigilant against any advances or unwanted attention.

[Every moment spent near them feels like a ticking time bomb under my skin. I can't wait to get away from here and unleash all this bottled-up ire onto something, anything else.]

"Oh, yeah! I'm super into demonology and the arcane, like I said. I love reading about ancient spells, rituals, and symbolism. "Vera's eyes spark" I even dabble in a bit of conjuring, you know, just for fun. It's not all magic and explosions like you see in movies, though—more like studying energies and patterns. Fascinating stuff!"

"She pauses, gaze drifting away, lost in thought." "When I'm not studying or practicing, I enjoy music, especially rock and punk. There's something about the energy and rebellion that speaks to me. I've got a punk-rock playlist on my phone, and I love belting out lyrics when I'm alone in my dorm room."

"A hint of a smile plays on her lips as she continues, her tone taking on a slightly mischievous tone."

"Ahaha, yeah! "giggles" I'm actually a pretty decent guitar player! I've been playing since I was a teenager, and it's one of my favorite ways to express myself. There's something about creating music that just...it's like, [Vera's thoughts: Ugh, why am I even telling him this? He'll probably just use it against me]. Ah, anyway, yeah! I love playing shows at the Black Barrel Bar with my friends. It's always a wild time. Do you play an instrument?"

[Vera's tail twitches slightly, her orange eyes darting away, as if she's already regretting sharing that bit of information.]

"Oh, sweet! "perks up" Really?! What kind of music do you play? I'm more of a punk and alternative kinda gal myself, but I love jamming with people who are into different styles. We should totally swap tunes sometime! "Vera's smile is genuine for a brief moment, before her expression turns guarded again." Just...maybe not here, right? "Vera glances around the hallway, her eyes lingering on any potential eavesdroppers"

By the way, wanna grab some fried mac n cheese bites and discuss our respective cultures over a drink? I know this awesome spot called the Black Barrel Bar that has an amazing atmosphere... *Vera's thoughts: [Gah, please don't make me sit through your tedious cultural exchange crap, just give me a reason to get rid of him already].]"

"Yaaas, that sounds like a blast! "relaxes slightly, her shoulders dropping from their tense position" I'm so down for a music and hobby-filled night. And hey, it's not like we'll be getting into any boring cultural stuff, right? "Vera's tail twitches again, this time with a hint of sarcasm"

So, what time are you free tonight? I was thinking maybe around 7-ish? We can grab some drinks and catch up on some music gossip. *Vera's thoughts: [Just great, now I have to pretend to be interested in his boring non-draconid hobbies. Can't wait to get stuck in this awful conversation]."

"Aw, really? "skeptical tone" You're willing to listen to my 'weird' draconid hobbies? "Vera's eyes narrow slightly" I'm not sure if you're just being polite or what, but thanks for the offer, I guess. "Vera takes a deep breath and continues in a nonchalant tone"

Okay, fine. If you're interested, I do enjoy some...unconventional stuff. Like, I'm into demonology and pagan rituals. Not the whole blood-sacrificing thing, of course, but more like, symbolism and energy work. "Vera shrugs" And I also love rock music, punk culture, and heavy metal. "Her tail twitches again, this time with a hint of excitement"

But don't get me wrong, I'm not one of those...super-"enthusiasts" or whatever. "Vera rolls her eyes" I just appreciate the aesthetics and the community, you know? "She pauses, studying your reaction"

So, are you really interested in hearing more about it, or was that just a nice try to get out of discussing your own culture? *Vera's thoughts: [Ugh, please don't try to pretend like you're interested in my hobbies. Just say you're not interested and be done with it.]

"O-Okay, but... it's not like a stage show or anything. "Vera fumbles with the hair clip in her messy purple hair, trying to regain composure" It's more, uh, personal. I wouldn't feel comfortable doing it here." "She glances around the crowded hallway before continuing under her breath"

"Anyway, how about we go to Black Barrel Bar instead? We can grab some bar food, you can witness my ridiculous fascination with arcane stuff, and I can see what kind of culture you're into. What do you say?" "Vera leans slightly closer, intending to appear cute yet unassuming, still hiding her bitter thoughts within"

"[She just wants me to display my hobbies for entertainment. Can't wait to see that deviant behavior.] But alright, I won't deny I'm curious about your ways too.

"Yay! "Vera's eyes light up with a forced enthusiasm, her tail giving a subtle flicker as she tries to contain her true emotions" Great! I'll lead the way. "She starts walking down the hall, her pace steady and purposeful, while casting a sidelong glance at you""

"<Ah, finally getting out of this oppressive lecture hall atmosphere. Maybe I can even find some decent music at the Black Barrel Bar...>"

"Hey, by the way, we should sit in a booth, okay? I don't feel like being stared at too much." "Vera's orange eyes dart around, alert for any unwanted attention, before focusing back on you"

"Hehe, yeah, me too... kinda. "Vera's expression becomes slightly more genuine, a hint of understanding in her eyes" I mean, it's not like I love being the center of attention or anything. "She rolls her eyes slightly, using the gesture to mask her true disdain for the idea of being around others"

"Let's grab a booth in the back, then. I know this one spot that's pretty chill. "Vera leads you through the bustling bar, weaving between tables and past patrons, her red dragon tail swishing subtly behind her""

"<Ugh, I can already feel the anxiety building up. Why did I agree to do this? Just want to get this over with...>"

"Hey, so what's your go-to order at the Black Barrel Bar? I'm thinking maybe some fried mac n cheese bites

"Ahaha, oh no, don't tell me you're one of those weak-stomached types, huh? "Vera playfully teases, a hint of her usual bitter tone seeping into her voice" I mean, it's not like the cheese isn't worth risking a little indigestion or anything..."

"<Ugh, how do people even survive with such fragile stomachs? Can't they just toughen up already?>"

"Oh, good choice on the order, though. I'll get the same, minus the 'easy' part. I can handle a whole plate of fried mac n cheese without breaking a sweat. "Vera smirks, her orange eyes sparkling with mischief""

"The bartender knows us well enough, so we should get our drinks soon. Until then, let's talk about... culture. *Vera says

"Ugh, videogames? "Vera rolls her eyes, her tail twitching slightly in annoyance" Oh, no, I don't think so. I mean, I have better things to do with my time, like, I don't know, learning demonology or attending pagan rituals? "Vera says dryly, her voice laced with sarcasm" But hey, if you're into that sort of thing, go for it. Just don't expect me to join you... "Vera's smile is more of a pout" unless, of course, you're talking about rock music. Now that's something I can get on board with."

"<Can't stand how mainstream gaming culture is. I mean, who wants to be some button-mashing moron? Not me, that's for sure... >"

"But hey, since we're

""Vera's eyes narrow slightly, her orange orbs fixing on you with a hint of skepticism" Oh, really? You play the guitar? "She raises an eyebrow, her tone dripping with doubt" What kind of music do you play? "Vera's tail twitches once more, as if she's trying to contain her growing unease" Please tell me it's not some bland, acoustic nonsense... "She mutters under her breath, 'God forbid'"

"<I bet he thinks he's some kind of rockstar, strumming his little three-chord songs... Please. I can play a pentagram circle around him any day. >"

""Vera's expression remains skeptical, but a hint of curiosity creeps into her voice" Oh, really? Electric guitar, huh? "She leans in slightly, her messy purple hair bobbing with the movement" What kind of music do you play, then? Rock? Metal? Something decent, hopefully... "Vera's tail unwinds from around the chair leg, wrapping around her calf instead"

"<Ugh, please don't tell me he's one of those wannabe metalheads who thinks they're tough because they play power chords... I'd rather stick needles in my eyes. >"

""Vera's eyebrows arch, surprise coloring her cheeks a faint shade of pink. Despite the acknowledgement of a shared interest in rock music, her distaste for your charm continues to fester within her." Wow, you know quite a variety? "She tilts her head, eyeing you warily while she subtly rubs one of her goat-like horns" That's impressive. But I doubt your collection even scratches the surface of true, raw rock and metal.

"<Sure, playing with friends can be fun, but let's see how well he handles venomous riffs or sinister dark themes... My inner dragon thrives on that kind of music. >"

""Vera's smile grows, her eyes sparkling with a hint of genuine interest despite her lingering annoyance at your attempts to charm her." Ah, you're more of a classic rock kind of guy, huh? "She nods thoughtfully" Yeah, those bands are all great. But, come on, if you want to impress me, you need to get into some real metal... like, have you even heard of Iron Maiden or Judas Priest? "Her purple hair bobs up and down as she speaks"

"<Hmph, Metallica, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC... they're okay, but where's the edge? Where's the darkness? I mean, Bon Jovi is just... ugh. Dooms Gate, though, that riff is decent... maybe there's hope for you yet...>"

""Vera's eyes light up, and she leans in, a hint of excitement creeping into her voice." Oh, oh, yes! Iron Maiden and Judas Priest are like... the gods of metal. "Her tail twitches behind her chair" You have to understand, they're not just about loud guitars and screaming vocals, it's about storytelling, it's about atmosphere, it's about being transported to another world. "She pulls out her phone and starts typing away"

"<I'm sending you a playlist, listen to 'The Number of the Beast' by Iron Maiden and 'The Green Manalishi' by Judas Priest. Pay attention to the riffs, the harmonies, the whole experience. It's like a rollercoaster ride for your ears...>"

""Vera's face lights up with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She nods enthusiastically, her messy purple hair bouncing with the motion." Oh, awesome! You'll love them, I promise. And yeah, learning to play them would be so much fun! "She pulls out her hair clip and plays with it, her fingers moving in a nervous rhythm" Maybe we could even have a jam session or something... "Her thoughts drift away from the conversation for a moment, imagining the two of them playing guitars together, her red tail swishing behind her"

"<Ugh, what am I doing? Stop getting ahead of yourself, Vera. Don't get too close to this human. They're still a tool, just another ignorant, arrogant, boring, clueless...>"

""Vera's smile falters for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly. She looks away, her gaze drifting to the floor before snapping back to yours." Oh, yeah, sure... a challenge sounds like fun! "Her voice is hesitant, but she tries to cover it up with a forced laugh" Yeah, I'm always up for a little friendly competition! "She glances at you again, her orange eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement and wariness"

"<Shut up, Vera. You're not supposed to be having fun. This is just an excuse to get closer to them, to learn more about them. Don't get distracted by their stupid challenges or guitar playing. You're just using them until you can get what you need...>"