[It isn't in his nature to initiate contact, but in this, he allows an exception. The need to explore the functioning of this world - as well as the seeming crucial dynamic between Witch and Monster - overrides any lingering hesitation.
Itachi moves closer, another slight half step, and evaluates the tall creature before him. It would be a strain to reach up for a shoulder, so instead he settles for one of those arms. His fingers are vaguely hot to the touch, as though his skin has rested against a warm sun-baked surface for several minutes. They curl over Julian's extended arm at the bicep. He can feel the suggestion of muscle beneath the soft texture of feathers and flesh, but he does not squeeze, contact kept very light.
Then, turning, Itachi focuses on a further point, lifting his opposite hand in the direction of the edge of the roof, and pulls at the warm intuitive threads of evocation magic. Rather than a verbal spell, this he manifests using the Monster as a foci without word. The reaction is instant: the air turns hot, crackling, as a jet of fire streams forth in one blazing ribbon and curls up into black smoke, eventually flickering out. The air shimmers from the effect of sudden heat. It's quick and unsustained, yet clearly a powerful spell.
He drops both hands to his side and lets out a short panted breath, sweat gathering along his browline.]
no subject
Itachi moves closer, another slight half step, and evaluates the tall creature before him. It would be a strain to reach up for a shoulder, so instead he settles for one of those arms. His fingers are vaguely hot to the touch, as though his skin has rested against a warm sun-baked surface for several minutes. They curl over Julian's extended arm at the bicep. He can feel the suggestion of muscle beneath the soft texture of feathers and flesh, but he does not squeeze, contact kept very light.
Then, turning, Itachi focuses on a further point, lifting his opposite hand in the direction of the edge of the roof, and pulls at the warm intuitive threads of evocation magic. Rather than a verbal spell, this he manifests using the Monster as a foci without word. The reaction is instant: the air turns hot, crackling, as a jet of fire streams forth in one blazing ribbon and curls up into black smoke, eventually flickering out. The air shimmers from the effect of sudden heat. It's quick and unsustained, yet clearly a powerful spell.
He drops both hands to his side and lets out a short panted breath, sweat gathering along his browline.]