The words fly out of your mouth without you meaning to. It feels like it's been so long since you've properly spoken to another human being. The hoarseness and timidity of your voice betrays you.
The man just continues to stare at you. Smiling all the while. Slowly, ever so slowly, the mirth leaves his eyes and his mouth droops downward. His face looks like a mask, every bit as still and lifeless as the owl visage he wore.
"You wish to learn? From me? You poor creature." There's pity in his voice.
You look down at the ground for the merest second, and when you look back up he's somehow moved directly in front of you, staring down at you, his face just inches away. You didn't hear him, didn't even feel his movements, which is a first. Is this how you die?
The stare down continues. You don't move. You know, you just know, if you move, he will kill you. With the same ease it would take for him to snap a twig. You know it in your bones.
"You really are a piece of vermin aren't you? You know you can't run, and you certainly can't fight. Can't speak worth a damn, but you've got some impressive instincts."
Still keeping still, as still as you can. You understand his words, his arrogance and yet you can't help but notice his pseudo-compliment at the end.
"It's rare to find youths like yourself within the confines of these...cities. Most of the poor here have already given up on living, from what I've seen. Even now, in your seeming acceptance, your eyes are alive." He pauses. Then closes his eyes.
"Very well then."
You blink. Suddenly you find yourself breathing. Slowly, then rapidly, then you're collapsing on the floor, relief flooding your body. The sense of danger suffusing your very being subsides. And you look up.
"My name is Quin. You shall refer to me as Master. Nothing else."
Without saying another word, Master Quin turns and walks into his house.
And it appears you're life is about to go through a monumental change.
Part 2 of this turn will be up soonish, no need for actions yet.