12.2 Impact

The following day when you wake, you're nearly convinced the whole evening had been nothing more than a dream. However, upon seeing your torn clothes cast aside you know this is not the case. Thankfully your servants ask no questions nor concern themselves with casting judgment when helping you dress. A large knot has formed in your center, distracting you from more pressing matters. It isn't until you're summoned by the Patricians several days later that your clouded mind clears. Turning your attention to the matter at hand, you brace yourself for the results. When your victory is announced you feel inexplicably apathetic. Feigning enthusiasm, you thank the men before making arrangements for the customary feast.

While you had initially expected celebration, you now are hardly in the mood for such festivities. Nevertheless, you resolve not to allow the previous events to sully your success. Unfortunately, once the events begin you've returned to dwelling on previous thoughts. Distracted, you absentmindedly make your way through the crowd. Eventually the formalities end as all around you continue carousing. Initiatively, you nurse a goblet of wine as the celebrations progress throughout the evening. You've just found a scarce moment of solitude when a figure unexpectedly makes its way towards you.

"Is this not a sight?"

Turning to face the familiar voice, you're inexplicably unperturbed by Kyros' presence. His light eyes regard you with what seems to be a mix of amusement and annoyance. His messy hair appears more tame than the last time you saw him. This doesn't stop a few stray locks from brushing against his furrowed brow. Though you are relieved it is him that has approached and not someone else, you're still far from in the mood to engage.

"Could we do this another time?" You request wearily, having hoped to make your appearance at the event brief.

"Is there someone else you would rather converse with?" He inquires in a somewhat sardonic tone.

"Far from it." Is your curt reply as you attempt to avoid his quizzical gaze.

"In that case," His voice becomes low as he continues speaking. "You will not mind a moment of my time."

Pursing your lips, you reluctantly turn your attention back to the man. There's little doubt in your mind as to what he wishes to address. Unfortunately, you may as well get them out of the way now. Sighing softly, you nod indicating for him to progress.

"I must say, we are all perplexed by your unexpected victory." Kyros states bluntly as he motions for a nearby servant to refill his drink. "After all, it was not too long ago that you indicated the need for my assistance."

"That is not the conversation I recall." You respond unable to mask the slight annoyance in your voice.

"Perhaps not." The man admits placidly, taking a step forward. "However, I do recall a certain alliance being formed."

Your brow raises in query at the allegation. While there may be some truth, he is entirely misconstruing your words. Deciding to remain diplomatic, you take a sip from your chalice before moving forward to meet the man.

"I-" Your words are swiftly cut off by the sudden presence of another figure.

"Empress Kora." A deep and familiar voice speaks your name, causing a shiver to course through your body.

Turning to face the source of the sound, you're somewhat surprised at the sight before you. It seems since your unwelcome visit, Leonis has been afforded the time to clean up. His long, unkempt locks have been shorn, leaving in its place a crop of short blond hair. However, the scars on his face remain, made more evident without the mask of a beard to cover them. The man's brown eyes seem to pierce straight through you as he looks forward. Shirking back slightly, you're unsure what to make of his sudden appearance. Once again, before you can speak you are cut off.

"The Empress is preoccupied." Kyros states brusquely, seemingly unintimidated by man's large stature. "You may offer her praise at another time."

You are far less confident, as you wearily keep your gaze fixed on the soldier before you. An amused expression spreads over his face, leaving you feeling all the more apprehensive. The tension in the air is growing thicker with each passing moment.

"Please," You quickly interject while stepping between the two men. "There are many people to meet with, you both shall have to wait."

A wave of adrenaline courses through your body as you quickly slip away. The large crowd makes it all the more easy to get away from the unwanted group. Soon you find yourself far from their prying eyes and questions. Fed up with the night's events, you swiftly exit the hall and return to your chambers.