10.2 Requital

"That is not possible." You reply quickly, still trying to pry free from his grasp.

"What makes you say that?" He questions hostily while tightening his grip further.

Your brow furrows again as you contemplate your response. The wild look in the man's eyes leaves you feeling increasingly anxious. Knowing you cannot continue remaining silent, you hesitantly speak.

"All of the survivors from that journey," You begin cautiously, trying to keep your tone even. "Have already returned."

A dry smile flashes across the man's weathered and slightly scarred face. Though you cannot deny a slight resemblance to the deceased Emperor's guard, you're still unsure of his claim.

"All that were able to return at that time did." He corrects sharply, his brown eyes narrowing somewhat angrily.

"If you are who you claim to be." You quickly suggest, hoping to get out of this unwanted situation. "Tell me something only he would know."

There is a small pause before the man's smile returns. Your back stiffens when his eyes lazily rake down your slight form.

"The last time I saw you was in the gardens." He mutters in a seemingly distracted tone as his gaze continues moving down your figure. "You were trying to escape."

"I was not!" You retort swiftly before it dawns on you the man speaks the truth. Blushing slightly, you cast him a confused look before slowly stating, "You are Leonis."

He nods curtly and you feel the grip on your arm loosen slightly. A somewhat pained look comes across the weary man's face. A small twinge of remorse cuts through you as you realize what a journey he must have gone through. Even you had understood the madness of the Emperors suggestion to set sail after season. The reminder of the Emperor sends a chill down your spine. Turning your attention back to the man you hastily question him.

"What of the Emperor?" You demand somewhat frantically and pull out of his slacked grasp. "He was on your vessel."

It is Leonis' turn to frown at your insistent inquiry. Deep creases form along his brow as he seems to mull over his response. You raise a brow skeptically, wondering if he is using the silence to concoct a lie. You hear him exhale deeply before running a hand through his unkempt hair.

"There was a terrible storm." He begins before trailing off, the rest of the words not needing to be spoken.

An odd feeling of both sorrow and relief comes over you. Nodding brusquely, you swiftly turn away in an attempt to shield him from seeing your torn expression. In spite of your aversion to the past Emperor, it is strange to hear confirmation of his passing. After clearing your throat softly, you tentatively move to face him again.

"Why are you here?" You can't help asking, feeling increasingly confused by the whole situation.

"I am here to see you." He states bluntly, only adding to your confusion. "I have some unfinished business."

"And what business is that?" You inquire breathlessly, stepping back when the man moves towards you.

"Do you know what I said to Alexius before his demise?" Though the words sound like a question you know Leonis is not expecting a response. When you remain silent he continues to answer himself. "I cursed him with what I believed to be my last breath and told him should I live, I would claim all that is his."

A look of concern quickly spreads over your face upon hearing his words. Given his explanation, you know there can only be one thing he is here for.