Returning Home

[Deleted]

Lilith still remained silent, watching the discussion from behind Diamond. Although he had saved her life, the only one she knew on a personal basis was Aria, so being in this group was taking a toll on her nervous habits. She twirled a strand of her long hair around her finger, moving her eyes from one person to another, keeping up quietly. She didn’t know who this woman was, but she knew she’d seen her at the restaurant as Aria had previously mentioned. The King however, dismissed her to another room, and it seemed Aria was the bigger priority.

Hearing what Aria had to say about her stay, or rather, what it looked like she was going to say, Lilith cleared her throat. If Aria were to look back at her, she would make a face signaling that she should simply tell the King what happened. She didn’t entirely know Aria’s relationship with him, but it was clear he found her important, so telling him what she told the rest of the group only made sense in Lilith’s mind.

However, if the King looked at her as well, she would turn red after making the face at Aria, and fidgit more with her hair before speaking. Sorry, just had something caught in my throat… Uhm… yeah.

When the group followed the king, she remained behind Diamond, walking at a slightly slower pace. She'd been in the castle a lot more recently, and recognized the path they were taking. She'd seen the King in passing on multiple occasions, but this would be the first audience - officially - she had with him, not counting the Undead fight. For that she was still ticked at him, telling her not to fight. She had wanted to chop him down like the rest of them, but clearly that would not have gone well.

[Deleted]

Like a good king he quickly dispatched the rude interrupter to deal with at a later time. However the fact he just put her matters before the princess was a bit of a shock. Though one she was grateful for, she was tired and wanted this just too be over with quick. She gave him a thankful look, she did not envy him for having to deal with the princess later; delaying her to speak to a visiting duchess probably wasn’t helping sooth the princess’s ruffled feathers. The conversation quickly turned back to her, something she hadn’t exactly been prepared for. She was more prepared for the short pleasantries and leave it at that. But nope, apparently they were going to chat about this a little further and boy did he start off with a loaded statement. Fun fact about their curse, he’d know if she wasn’t “safe” well at least if she was getting beatings he would. Though she supposed for most going MIA in the forever forest wasn’t considered ‘safe’. Actually it probably would be a death sentence for most people. She had spent the night in the forever forest in the middle of winter. That she supposed would worry some people, it hadn’t crossed her mind until now. Hopefully Noku hadn’t known that fact, it was a good chance he hadn’t even known she was coming.

”I was well received; I was given a coronation and such.”

Well vague enough, as for being well attended….she wasn’t exactly sure what that was supposed to mean. What was considered well attended. She would remain vague though; perhaps telling Noku the details of her stay wasn’t the wisest of decisions. Plus if she was forced to talk about it now she was more than sure she would slip and say something that would result in consequences she would regret. So her usual talkative self was kept at a minimum. Really she was in no mental state to play politics. Thankfully Diamond caught Noku’s attention. The conversation however left a sour taste in her mouth, she kept her mouth shut as she kept her gaze at her feet. She wanted to punch Diamond in his smug fucking mouth…but Diamond had a right to be proud he helped save innocents…and he hadn’t known that another would die because of it. She closed her eyes; and slowly suppressed the raw emotions that were threatening to overwhelm her once more.

Aria had to put so much concentration in controlling her emotions enough to keep her face void of them that she had missed Nokus statement about moving to another room. It wasn’t until Lilith walked past her that she looked up, realizing the group was leaving…. She silently chose to fallow. Keeping her gaze at her feet as they went along. She hadn’t really any idea of where they were going at this point. But hey at least it seemed she escaped having to go into any details about her stay in Palico.

Or not….she looked up when Lilith started coughing; the one who was quiet as a mouse usually. Arias eyebrow quirked high. She looked at Noku…then back at Lilith….then back at Noku…before looking back at Lilith with a look that clearly said Aria thought her insane. Seriously way to make her seem suspicious as hell. Hopefully Noky didn’t notice.

[Noku Noru]

As he led the group steadily through vaulted corridors, past polished stone and royal decadence, Noku's presence of mind returned instinctively as he neared the intended chamber. A broad, arched oak door, banded in iron and inlaid with silver, bore admittance into a stately but conservative room with little furnishing-that chiefly consisting of writing desks laden with stationery and one supplementary chest of drawers. Noku pushed open one-half of the sturdy door, and gestured to the group to enter, standing at attention as they passed before him. As each crossed his gaze, he studied the details of their face, sounding their thoughts as best as he could. Lilith in particular drew his attention, looking sternly into her lavender eyes- the color seeming reminiscent of a familiar but vague memory. His eyes ran along her brow, her soft, elven contours and slight stature, noting her timid and reserved gait. Something about her seemed familiar for a moment, though he said nothing while she passed.

Noku closed the door with a heavy thud behind them, drew a large bolt across the latch, and they were alone. "Have a seat," he spoke dryly, without feeling. Seating himself on a desk before the troupe, he became grave and hard-featured, speaking in curt, deliberate phrases. "Aria, as you know, Nova was besieged by hordes of undead at the hand of Helena, Goddess of Souls. They appeared on all sides, and assailed us viciously; many soldiers died repelling the assault. During this time, I was attacked; I cannot recall strong details of it, but I distinctly remember the pattern of the Black Dagger's colors. Unfortunately afterwards, according to reports." Noku sighed, glancing down to what looked like a stack of reports scattered across the desk. His eyes glancing over the reports as he begun to speak again in a more exhausted tone. " That I began berserking in the enemy ranks, cutting down any who approached. It was the efforts of this man" -he here indicated Diamond by pointing his index finger at him; His gaze lifting from the report back up at the group- "that concluded my mania. In the interest of the security of this kingdom, I am making you all privy to a matter of great secrecy, heretofore shrouded in obscurity and only vaguely guessed at by outsider: namely, the nature of the curse of the lineage of Cain, the cause of my irrational behavior. If I am made to feel pain, a transformation occurs, rendering my body changed and my mind clouded. I cannot control my actions, and become possessed of otherworldly strength. This curse has been with me the whole of my life, and the secret kept closely guarded. After all, what would the citizens of Nova think if they knew their king was subject to such a flaw? I fear hysteria; widespread chaos. Which is why the presence of the fated, and particularly Ms Wurud, poses a unique and dangerous challenge: she, too, bears the blood of Cain, and likewise his curse. How many fated have yet entered this world? Each might prove a far-distant descendant of Cain, from some alternate place and time." Noku paused, drew a full breath, his chest heaving as though with grief, and resumed. "The concern here lies in this particular: all those under the curse of Cain are tied in body; they will all share in corporeal injury, and the induction of a transformation is likewise shared. As it concerns the security of the kingdom, were one such undiscovered descendant mortally wounded in this world, the others, myself included, may certainly come to the same. It is imperative that the general population remain uninformed not only of the particulars, but the potential connection of undiscovered persons to the existing Noru line. I do not believe I need elaborate further. Can I understand that the three of you will work to produce this effect in the kingdom?"

Noku did not wait for a response, but rose and began to pace the room, seeming agitated. He resumed speaking, to none of the group specifically, but his voice remained restrained, reinforcing the privacy of the heavily-walled chamber. "The matter I have brought before you has never been discussed outside a very select few, all nobles in direct connection with the royal family. It was deemed too severe a secret to be circulated, and its preservation has been the utmost priority of the inner circle of my court. You are the only outsiders to have this knowledge." He paced absentmindedly, drawn inward by his present musings. "I am placing both a great burden and great honor in your hands, to trust you with this matter. It could even mean the breakdown of the Noru line, the end of my family, but I fear I no longer have any choice. If there is merit in the leadership we have heretofore lent to this nation, may we now reap it in fealty from newfound allies."

[Deleted]

Diamond took a seat and sat down to listen to what Noku wanted to talk about. And it seemed that he was going more in depth on a explanation on his curse then what Aria was going to let on. He would not speak on that they had already spoke on that matter as he was the one that stopped Noku. But then when he spoke, more on the inner workings of the curse. His face went slightly shocked on the matter of one of the other triggers. He then looked at Aria and there was some guilt on his face, since he did not know that the blow that he inflicted to Noku. Had effected the red head that was in the room. But none the less Diamond let Noku to continue to speak. Then watched Noku get up and pace about in thought as he was letting his inner thoughts out. "Your majesty I'm not going to say a word about the curse, I would not do that to someone I respect. You sir went out to the front lines, even though knowing that you had curse. And fought with your men rather then just sitting back in your castle. So pardon me if I speak a bit like a commoner but, you sir had balls of steel going out there to fight side by side your own men. Even though I am making light of the situation, I hope what I said put your mind at some ease" he said trying to mean well since Noku looked like hell as what had happend had put a lot of weight on him.

"I am not sure what else to say, even though I am one of the few that have been in some of the major events that have been going on in your kingdom. But I will make sure that if I come across any leaks of your curse. I will discretely take care of that problem" Diamond said and then stayed silent as he figured that Aria would have a lot more to say on the matter. He himself was not sure what to say in a situation like this.

[Deleted]

Oops… Lilith hadn’t realized Aria may not want the king to know about her time in Palico, as Arias look seemed to hint at. Her face flushed in colour, as she looked apologetic to the red head. Thankfully, the king didn’t even seem to notice, so that was good. She crossed her arms out in front of her, clasping her fingers together while they walked. The rest of their journey felt oddly silent, but she supposed it wasn’t irregular. What did one talk about with the king while strolling through the castle? Lilith couldn’t even imagine the king holding up idle small talk to keep the mood from shifting. Just thinking about it made her want to giggle, but she kept a straight face and pressed on.

As they reached their destination, Lilith let out a small puff of air. For some reason the silent walk had made her nervous, so sitting down and finally talking felt like a relief. Plus her injuries were bothering her, so sitting down at all would be a load off. One by one they filtered into the room, and Lilith noticed that the king was waiting for them all to enter before sitting down himself. As she stepped over the threshold, she felt his eyes peering down at her, forcing her to meet them. She had a feeling her eyes were incredibly soft compared to his, burdened with fights, and other unknown weight hiding behind them. She wasn’t sure if it was her anxiety pressing new levels, but she felt like she’d seen those eyes up close before. It was doubtful, as she’d never been this close to the king before, but they felt familiar, aside from how stern they were now. His stare only caused her more nerves, and she turned beat red to prove it. Why was he staring at her so intently? Lilith kept walking, breaking the eye contact and sitting down wherever Aria did.

When the king began to speak, Lilith kept her eyes down, not wanting anything to distract her from the words he spoke. In the beginning, he said similar things that she’d heard from Aria not too long before then, so hearing them again was just an affirmation for her, and no doubt Diamond. The Curse was something that afflicted the king, and when in pain caused him to lash out uncontrollably, which Diamond and Lilith herself had witnessed first hand. Lilith liked to push that battle out of her mind. It had been a rough day for everyone, and it had been the only other time she’d had the pleasure of speaking with the king, but in the mood that she had been, she was not the nicest person. Yet another thing to be proud about; sassing the king.

Lilith understood the kings worries— stories got out, rumours spread, and the kingdom could lash out against him, which would not go well. So much like Aria, he asked them to tame what rumours and stories that they could, and hopefully tame the situation all together. He brought up an interesting point- one she hadn’t thought of at all. The curse affected his family, and with the fated coming, who’s to say someone with his bloodline wouldn’t show up, and possibly put him in danger in the process? No wonder the king was so edgy all the time. It took Lilith a second to realized who’s name the king had spoken. Ms Wurud. She knew that name… her gaze slowly shifted to Aria, covered in bruises herself and had previously refused to give an explanation as to why. Lilith’s eyes moved over to Diamond, who seemed to have realized the same thing. Aria was connected to the king… What he felt, she did as well… Everything made so much more sense now! Lilith’s eyes were wide as she glanced over back at Aria. She refused to speak yet, as the king was still talking, but she couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

Lilith understood why this knowledge was so important, but why had the king chosen them to tell? She supposed Diamond made sense, he was the one to subdue Noku in the red mist, but at what cost? And Lilith was no more than a random servant to the king, so her knowing made absolutely no sense, aside from being a friend of the red head. By the time Noku stopped speaking, Lilith was looking down at her knees again, unable to form a sentence. Aria was a blood relative to Noku, from the future. When one was hurt, they both were… That much connected a lot of dots.

Diamonds voice broke through Liliths attempt at thinking everything over, and she looked up at him. His comment caused her to snort out a laugh without thinking about it, which in turn caused her hands to fly up and cover her mouth. Um, I’m sorry. The uh, the balls comment… I wasn’t expecting it… sorry. She looked back down at her knees, brights as a tomato. She’d just laughed at the king. Well, Diamond’s words, but it was directed at the king! That had to be strike two for her. First she sassed him off during the fight, and now she laughed at him.

When Diamond was finished speaking and Lilith had calmed and composed herself, and looking up at the king, she decided it was time to speak. I will do anything and everything I can to keep this knowledge from spreading, and to keep the rumours from getting out of hand. A riot is the last thing the people or the kingdom needs right now. With one tragedy after another… the people can’t handle much more- trust me, I’m one of them… As I have connected both in and out of the palace, like Diamond, I too with discretely take care of any problems I come across. However… I do have one question… please correct me if this is out of line but… Why would you go into battle, knowing of this curse? Yes, it is noble and brave and creates a great image as the king… but putting yourself and another in danger like that… wouldn’t you consider that a tad reckless? Now that’s not to say we didn’t need you there, you helped a great deal, and your command is always absolute, but wasn’t it too risky? Lilith’s voice, though soft, was calm. This question was important to her, as if anything had happened to the King, and if Diamond hadn’t been able to stop him, Aria may have been hurt even more, or killed for that matter, and that was something Lilith couldn’t be okay with.

[Deleted]

Thankfully Noku remained unaware of Lilith’s little display; they were able to get to his study’s doors without much more conversation. Aria nodded a thanks to Noku as he held the door open for them; she walked in behind Diamond. She took a moment to look around the room; the amount of papers he had to sift through was impressive. Her attention was pulled momentarily when the door closed with a thud and was latched. She eyed the latch for a moment; something about being locked in a room always tweaked her. Despite her present company it still bothered her; perhaps it was being in the dungeons one to many times. She fidgeted slightly before forcing her attention somewhere else. They were told to have a seat, both Lilith and Daimond found places to make themselves comfortable; Aria however chose to remain standing with her hands folded behind her back, really unsure of where to take a seat. Noku’s furniture looked to nice; and frankly she just spent a night sleeping in dirt. Eventually after he began talking she took a seat on the floor.

Aria listened quality as he went over the report; nodding at the details she was already aware of. The name Black Dagger was new to her however; it was something she would need to look into. If her Drake did indeed manage to track down Louie it would have to be something she asked him about. He began to go on about the curse; and then touched on matters that Aria had already informed the group of. Security, possible panic, yadda yadda yadda; yep she had gotten that covered; and already had come up with a plan to help.

As he let the Noru bomb drop so to speak she laid down on her back with her arms over her face; still listening as he addressed the other two in the room. She was just exhausted emotionally and physically, and at least now she didn’t need to play random subject of the king. She was surprised he had chosen to let Lilith and Diamond into the loop; however he had his trusted people, she supposed he was giving her own in this respect. When he asked if he could trust the three of them to protect this secret she held up a thumbs up in the air. Frankly she was already on it. Her arm flopped back over her face; only peeking out when she heard pacing near her head. She remained silent as Diamond began to respond about Noku participating in the battle; however the comment about balls of steels forced a muffled sarcastic response out of her.

”If only….”

If he indeed had balls of steel, they wouldn’t be in this situation right now….wait did Lilith just comment about the kings balls to? That was somewhat amusing…she must be dying in her seat right now of embarrassment. It wasn’t the sort of thing the quiet lady usually would say. Apparently Melda wasn’t the only one she was affecting personality wise. While Diamond tried to comfort the king, Lilith took the opposite approach and basically gave Noku the same exact speech he previously had given her after the events at the gallows. This brought Aria to push herself up into a sitting position; her gaze softening as she looked at her friend who obviously cared about the risk posed to her life and not just the kings. She was touched; for very few people in her life had made Aria feel like she wasn’t just a pawn. While she was grateful for Lilith she understood why Noku had fought. Even though his decision cost her the life of her child…. She did not blame him for fighting.

”I understand why Noku fought; no one can sit back and do nothing while something they love is in trouble….that in itself is torture.”

To be helpless….Aria had just had to watch her child she had already begun to love die as she was unable to do a thing to save it. It was soul crushing; she wouldn’t wish that on her worse enemy never mind family.

” In this situation I support Noku going out into battle; it was to protect something we both love… I may be fated, but I’m fated from Novianian soil. I was born here, I grew up here….The trees in the forest, the grove here in the first district, the library, the taverns; all of those and more are still present in my time. They last all those years; I get to meet people whom I use to be close to’s ancestors. In short this city, this kingdom, this is a place I love; it’s my home whether I belong to Palico or not. I want to see it protected. Even if we take the fact this is my home away, as Noku mentioned he’s family; I spent sixteen years without one only to lose them again because of that smug ass tapestry of a god. Any family I have is something I cherish above myself; if it’s important to him I will support it. It’s what family does.”

She missed having that close family unit, a lot…while she wasn’t particularly close to Noku, he was a family of sorts. Aria thought for a moment more; she was touched by her friends concern but she understood why Noku did what he did, though it was funny how Lilith was scolding him in the same way he had scolded her a few months ago in the middle of his court.

”Plus this isn’t really all that different then me staying to control the fire during the fated execution.”

However she was kinda forced to go to that in chains and still got yelled at for it, but still she had stayed to fight even after she had been freed. It wasn’t exactly a picnic having your bodies’ well being be put into another’s hands. She bore no ill will towards Noku for that…After saying her piece to Lilith she looked back towards Noku.

”Despite what it may appear, I share similar fears…. The fact that this black dagger person knew what to do to get you into a homicidal rage is also more than concerning. Especially with how down low the information has been kept. I want to know how he knew….I’ve been keeping my trap shut about it….Can I ask who knows?”

[Noku Noru]

Still pacing, Noku heard the voices of his audience, each giving its report; he, mired deep in pensive meditation, eagerly searched the sounds for the subtleties of communication often lost to higher thinking, 'reading' each speaker in turn by their responses. They were rough, marking the influence of the common caste, but forthcoming enough. The soldier's voice came through in clear, sombre tones indicative of discipline and focus: valuable qualities in a subordinate. This pleased Noku, despite a somewhat hackneyed delivery referencing his genitalia. The elf tittered gently, apparently drawn to discourse despite reservations, at first stumbling, then supplicating, and finally passing a measure of judgement on his willingness to ride into battle, knowing his flaw. A servant, and used to holding an office; frail perhaps of resolve, but rich in thought. Finally, Aria's firm voice, tinged with weariness, equivocated the discussion. She spoke of fealty and personal attachment to the kingdom, to him; she ended by illustrating a familiar fear of his, namely, the question of the Black Dagger's knowledge on the matter. Clansmen or no, she had the mark of nobility in her mind, arriving at similar points of inquiry as himself. It was on Aria's voice he placed the most scrutiny; her leadership in the matter would weigh strongly on the results produced by her affiliates.

He ceased pacing, drew his arms behind him in military posture, and surveyed the group, passing between them as he rebuffed, starting with Diamond: "I trust your actions to be more deft than your tongue; I have already seen as much, yet I fail to sympathize with your allusion to my glands." Alighting on Lilith: "Aria comes close to the point, but she is not the figurehead of this nation. As king, my conduct will either raise or fell an empire, and loyalty is a quality that cannot be purchased by gold alone. In order to cultivate allegiance, a strong standard must be raised to which those with nobility in them can aspire. A king may be considered wise if he fortifies himself behind stone to preserve the order, but a wise king does not evoke devotion. By joining my men on the field of battle, I create in them the coveted sense of urgency, resolve, and perseverance in a deep and true fashion." Here, he paused, searching briefly for the appropriate words. "I am just one man, but if the strength of one man can rally the strength of thousands, then I am thousands, and I must be, to preserve this kingdom." Lastly, he turned to Aria. "You come to the head of the thing, namely, that this secret has come into the possession of outsiders who wish to do harm to my line. The most expedient explanation is that it has been leaked, by an insider vying for position, fortune, power, what have you; I fear that explanation is far too expedient to warrant accuracy. As to those who knew, you may consider yourselves and myself the only possessors of such knowledge, for propriety's sake. To tell more may, perhaps, be misleading or destructive to the purpose."

[Deleted]

Diamond had listend to both Lilith and Aria as they spoke there opinions on the matter. Although for Lilith he did understand what she had said. As logic would dictate to that fact that he should not have went out there to fight the enemy. But Noku had to lead and inspire his men so he had to go out. But none the less she would do the same as him and take care of any leaks if they happend. With Aria speaking though she had simular thoughts but diffrently as she became very passionet on Nova. As she was born from another version of this world but cherished it just the same as her own world. When the subject of family came up it did stab at him slightly. As his addopted family of his mercenary unit was somewhere out there. On top of that, he never knew who his parents were at all. Diamond did not show this on his face since there was serious buisness to be had at the moment. He had to laugh at Noku's response to him. "Don't worry about my skill, I'll try use a better saying though. It was my ill choice on that" he chuckled but got a serious look again when the subject of who else would know about this matter. "I've only been here for a year, so I don't know a lot the other people except those that I have met" he said and was not going to mention his likely suspsions on who knew. As they were somewhat biased in a sense but it did occur to him though that made him change his mind on the matter.

"Well I wound hazerd a guess but. Wouldn't Rolland know this due to his job as a Royal Guardsmen? I think thats what his title was? I have not seen him around for awhile now.....it does worry me a bit. Since he is technicly the general for the military for this kingdom as well as dealing with problems such as this. Forgive me if I have some of my details wrong. But it does make me wonder, what the hell he has been doing" he said and it did make him think that there was something fishy going on with that man. There had been a sixth sense with Diamond that there was something very off with the man.

[Deleted]

Due to her last outburt, Lilith remained quiet at Aria's jab, not wanting to dig a bigger hole with the king. When Aria answered her question instead of Noku, Lilith shifted her attention down to where she lay sprawled, before sitting up. The words made sense, and she knew it was his job, but she couldn't help but feel protective of the fun sized red head. Lilith looked up to her like a sister, so losing her was not an option. However she remained silent even as Aria finished, only offering a few nods to let Aria know she understood.

When the king directed his words onto her directly, Lilith sat straighter, her purple eyes staring directly into his. It was true that he made her nervous as most people did, but her question was important and she didnt want to miss anything about his reply. His words rang true and Lilith felt a small pang of guilt for questioning him at all, but it passed quickly.

Yes I understand. I'm sorry for questioning you, Your Highness. Lilith bowed her head, breaking the eye contact at last, hoping she didnt offend him. When Diamond brought up Roland she felt her stomach twise. She had a feeling this conversation was going to turn sour really fast. She wanted to contribute to the conversation more, but did not wish to cross a line.

[Deleted]

Aria after she was finished flopped back down on the ground; being as tired as she was this floor was abnormally comfy. Noku proved to be a killjoy as he didn’t find the reference to his gentiles amusing. She closed her eyes while listening to Noku make his point about inspiring his people. It was something she did understand. She peeked open an eye when Noku addressed her; both eyes opening when he tried to pull the only you guys and I know thing. Her eyes narrowed; he JUST finished saying that only him and his inner circle knew. Indicating it was more than just them at this moment. Really she was too tired to argue that point at the moment so she sighed and just closed her eyes again.

Diamond however seemed like he wasn’t going to let the subject drop as Noku oh so subtly attempted to. The ball commenting mercenary had a good point thought; Roland did have some knowledge of the curse. She wondered if the king knew that he did.

”He knows very little about the curse; but he knows it connects me to Noku in some way. Just not how. When grumpy guard was questioning me in the dungeon he was fishing for more information on the curse….So he partially knows, along with the fact he shared the fact I have some connection to Noku and being a possible Noru with Severine at the fated’s execution. I wouldn’t trust Roland further then I could throw him… less so….”

She rubbed the bridge of her nose; really her brain was foggy at the moment.

”Roland’s job is to protect Noku; however his rigidity to the law makes him miss more subtle details. Personally I see him more as a liability…jumping to conclusions without investigating facts before opening his mouth. He does not care for politics what so ever; he’d probably do better in the lower district…. Considering politics can be a fairly good precursor to possible threats… However his loyalty drives his actions; whatever mistakes he does make it’s not with malicious intent at least not in my opinion. That reminds me Noku before I forget Silas has oh so graciously given you this flight of drakes to use at your disposal for however long you have need of them.”

[Noku Noru]

Noku folded his arms, hearing each of the group in turn, contemplating the ramifications of Roland's potential involvement. His expression grew severe as Aria seconded Diamond's opinion, a striking realization brought on by her connection to the incident kindling in the center of his brain. He began to piece together a disturbing image of the many ears Roland's voice would inevitably have fallen upon in pursuit of information, one littered with unscrupulous and petty characters, eager to pocket quick coin, with even more unscrupulous associates, vague and unknown. Noku's eye fell to the granite at his feet, his face returning the countenance of the stone. What the hell was going on here? The entire castle was falling apart staff wise and none seem to be trusted, hell strangers seem to be more trustworthy than the people he had counted upon his entire life. Several moments elapsed after Aria finished speaking, before Noku met her gaze again, assuming a serene disposition.

"That was very kind of him; Palico's drakes are a fine prize indeed. Such a gift....may prove useful sooner rather than later..."

He leisurely strode toward the door, resuming his pattern from earlier, at a much reduced pace. Not wanting to give away his true thoughts on the ‘gifts’ Palico has been so generous about for the past couple of months. His voice remained suppressed, but came through with less restraint as he kept his back towards the group.

"I will weigh the suggestions you have made carefully. Navigating the hierarchy of politics requires a great deal of finesse, and, more presently, losing any potential opportunities to lure these persons out into the open would only serve to staunch our efforts."

Noku raised his right index finger to his lips, and began pacing about the room. His eyes searched the silent granite, absently. The pace only lasting about a minute before suddenly he became more animated, gesturing with his hand for emphasis. His golden eyes locked onto Aria.

"Aria, go get some rest. I will have my stablehands secure the necessary lodging and provisions for your drakes; Along with a place of lodging for yourself. After the festivities have passed and the drakes and riders well-rested, we will pursue a stronger course of action. “ Noku glanced his eyes over at Diamond as he rubbed his chin as if in contemplation. “Diamond, do a little digging for jobs requiring a shady resume, it might do some good to know which seedy bunch offers the best payoffs, also whether there's much competition in the black market lately. Also, your skills back at the Gate did not go un-noticed. You were rather impressive for a man with little history of serving in wars or battles. Your title as Mylee’s Champion though does explain some of your skills, however, I hope to see more from you in the near future. Perhaps come by my office after the upcoming festival to discuss a possible future for yourself in this Kingdom, Sir Diamond.”

Noku nodded his head. “ And Ms. Harmonia..." Noku ceased pacing in front of Lilith, stopping directly infant of the woman with his right hand still pressed up under his chin, meeting her eye with a somber, viscious expression. "Keep your ears light. You may have the chance to catch some very juicy gossip on these grounds. You know what kind, I think I need not reiterate." Noku’s tone was oddly soft compared to normal. His locked gaze not lasting long as he broke eye contact the moment he began to walk past her.

Noku approached the broad door, his hands clasped behind his back.

"You all have your orders, I will send for you again in a week's time. The servant who summons you will ask you for a password, say nothing in response. If they continue to press you, it may be a trap; if so, do not trust them."

He lifted the latch, grasped the knob, and swung both halves open, standing to the left half of the doorway.

[Deleted]

Diamond felt some thing like glares from both women in the room or negative auras at the very least. But it seemed that Aria agreed with him on the fact that there was some kind of problem with Rolland. And in some areas agreed with him on the fact that his ridgity was a major problem. But loyalty was something that Diamond did question as this man was super riddged what kind of act he had going on. A lot of these types that were super bound to the law sometimes had some kind of skeleton in the closet. Or was doing something shady. But it was hard to tell on Rolland if it was an act or not. Although as Diamond was thinking like this Noku though had a very grim look on his face. Perhaps that the people around him were crumbling around him as he had trusted a lot of these people. "Understood" he said and was looking at Aria for a second and saw that she had passed out. The white haired male wanted to facepalm a bit. Since he wanted to get food and a few things into her but passed out in exsaution. Then Noku got his attention with a job for him to do and made him raise an eyebrow in two ways. One was to get info on what shady groups would be in high demand right now. Or what was going on in the underbelly of Nova. The other thing that got his attention was a better job within the Kingdom!?

That was something that surprised him greatly and this got several gears in his head grinding about. Perhaps this was a good time for him to get the mercenary company back to him. Since it seemed like they might have a true home for once rather then constantly going to one battlefield to another. "Very well, perhaps I'll bring some drinks later. You look like, you need a drinking buddy and a few drinks. Since you look like you need a friend to talk to......forgive me if I was being too casual with you my lord" he said and did not mean to have a slip like that. He then sees Noku trying to charm Lilith and he wanted to chuckle a bit but kept his composure. It seemed that Noku was giving him the door and would accept it, but would it be in his place to mention something to Noku about Aria. Or did he know that she was passed out on the floor....he was tempted to speak but saw she was sleeping peacefully. Perhaps it would be Lilith's place to deal with something like this but she was in no shape to help. Although he was tired himself, he figured things would fix them sleves. So he would leave so that Aria could get some rest.

[Deleted]

The discussion on Roland was something Lilith felt oddly biased about. She didn’t know him personally, know did she know much about him at all. Yet she was defensive of him. He had saved her life, taught her how to do magic properly, and was patient when she was stuck in one place. No one else had done something like that for her. She’d taken the job at the palace because of him… Lilith listened, not letting her emotions onto her face, and despite her opinion on him, she understood what was being said. She looked at Aria while she spoke, noticing the little details that meant she was beyond tired. Not surprising, the poor woman had been run ragged before this conversation, let alone now.

Lilith watched as Aria’s eyes closed, a small smile forming on her face. She deserved some rest, and as soon as Lilith was able, she’d help heal her. Her eyes widened as Noku spoke, catching the “Sir Diamond”, that had to be important. Not that Diamond seemed to notice it much. Lilith remained sitting for a moment longer, noticing Noku shift his attention to her. Once again her eyes were drawn to his, out of reflex, or habit, she wasn’t sure. Her head was tilted up to do so, her hair falling around her in a calm but messy fashion. Her own expression was weary but attentive as she nodded along to his words. Of course Your Highness. I’ll do whatever I can, you have my word. Lilith spoke, her voice as soft and shy as ever, but certain in the words she spoke. When he walked past her and broke the contact, Lilith stood, moving to kneel next to Aria, her mind wondering if she’d imagined the change in his tone.

Uhm… Your Highness, what about Aria? Lilith picked up the red heads arm to lift it in the air, then let it plop back down on her stomach. She’s out cold She looked as Diamond left, nodding her farewell, but sticking around for the moment.

[Deleted]

Aria had indeed fallen asleep, shortly after she had spoken her last sentence and Nokus acceptance of the gifts. She fell asleep to the sound of pacing feet. It had been a while since she had been in a warm room, she was comfortable enough that she did pass out quite thoroughly. A piece of hair had fallen in her face and currently was floating up and down in the rhythm of her slowed breathing. It did not matter that she was till in full armor, she was tired enough not to notice any of the discomfort. Completely missing Noku’s instructions for her…or well not completely missing them due to the fact it would seem she already had gotten a head start on them.

Normally Aria would have never fallen asleep during an important information; however she was barely keeping on her feet to begin with. Though this extended talk was probably beneficial, due to the fact she probably would have passed out at whatever random drinking establishment that Diamond would have brought them to.

Aria was in a deep sleep, luckily for Lilith. Normally she would have woken up and took a stab at what ever randomly poked her. As her arm dropped and hit her stomach with an audible plop, a deep wolfish sounding growl came from her throat. It subsided fairly quickly as her breathing returned to the deep steady rhythm of sleep.

[Noku Noru]

Noku remained stoic at the door way. His golden eyes locking onto Diamond as he approached and was the first to speak up among the group. Had Noku been more attentive to his surroundings he would of noticed Aria whom had already passed out on his floor. With a raised brow; Noku continued his gaze upon Diamond as he spoke almost chuckling at Diamond’s offer at becoming drinking buddies and to possibly take time off to relax and drink a bit. A heavy sigh escaping lightly under his breath. The offer highly appealing and something he would rather enjoy at this moment; however, with his decree almost a year ago when he was first drugged through his wine. Noku had kept his word and not tasted a single drop of liquor or wine sense that day. Even the Royal wine that he enjoyed was kept safe in the wine cellars; kept for safe keeping until he could celebrate something that wasn’t a total disaster.

“ Thank you for the offer; Perhaps some time in the future that could be arranged.”

Noku nodded, watching Diamond walk past before his attention drew back to Lilith once again. His golden gaze lowering to the floor as he looked at the elf woman with a bit of curiosity. A small grin appearing on his weary features while watching Lilith plop aria’s arm up and down onto her stomach like a dead fish. Now he knew he was tired, quickly clearing his throat to catch the chuckle that managed to escape.

“ I see… “ Noku cleared his throat once more, slowly and very cautiously approaching Lilith to bend down to one knee to look at Aria. “ I will have my servants move her to a room. Once she gets some proper rest I’m sure the girl will be back to her normal self. After all, she carries noru blood in her veins.” Noku spoke sternly, yet very soft to not wake Aria as he got back up to move towards the door once again.

“ I’m sure you can see that though, sense she kinda resembles her in a way. Though I’m sure you can see that for yourself, Lady Harmonia.” Noku spoke softly once again glancing over his shoulder up at a painting that was hanging up behind his desk. The frame small, but the piece of art gorgeous. A small painting of the Royal family, that of his father and Mother with him as a child placed in a chair up front and center between his parents.

“ So how is she? “ Noku asked. The room silent when the door opened and two servants came quietly into the room. “ Em.. Never mind. Don’t worry about it. I will not keep you any longer, if you wish to leave or follow your friend to her room. “ Noku quickly negated his question, not wanting to discuss it in front of the servants while they picked up Aria and began to carry her carefully out the room to her own bed to rest. Meanwhile Noku moved back to his desk and sat down.