it's not by bone but yet by blade
can break the magic that the devil made
After gauging the tension between the males in silence, his attention returned to the girl again. He was satisfied with her answer, respectful and open and perhaps not as young as he'd first thought. They all had started to seem so young to the middle-aged man now. He nodded solemnly in acknowledgement and greeting to each of them as she introduced them in turn.
She came with curiosity for his home and their people, and that earned his interest. The comment on a relationship between their lands might've put him on wary edge, but he felt no alarm with her. Not until her companion spoke up and added to it saying that they hoped their lands could come to some agreement and the request took on a different purpose, more direct weight.
So they were here seeking an alliance. Complete strangers.
He stared hard at the young man for a long moment, his displeasure heavy and bald in his glacial blue eyes. It was unacceptable to him for someone to come with the sole purpose of benefitting themselves, barely a breath after introductions no less. He had never been overly social, didn't quite fit in with the silver tongues and false smiles though he was completely comfortable in a crowd, but this kind of play is exactly why he despised the way kingdoms handled their diplomatic visits. Everyone seemed to only have their own interests in mind, chasing after whatever would make them more powerful.
Genuinity was rare and priceless. Thus far, only Magnus, Djinni, Nayl, and Kerberos had been genuine in their visits, coming with curiosity rather than purpose, a set goal in mind.
"I'll take you to Lilitha," he said evenly, his eyes returning to Warlight with a slight dip of his head in respect. Then he turned without a glance to her companions and no answer for her unasked question regarding the Taigans' well beings. Their goal was clear. He wouldn't waste his breath on pretending otherwise and playing the false-smile game. "She is who you seek." Odd though, when normally the buck stopped at him. He was so accustomed to it now, responsible for the Taigans for so many years. It wasn't uncomfortable, though. Just strange.
He led them through the trees on a direct path to Lilitha, already aware of where she was just then. It was not a long journey, and the distant sound of children playing could be heard through the dark forest. Their approach was quiet over the soft bed of pine needles, but he wasn't concerned that he'd catch her off-guard.
"Lilitha," he greeted gently, drawing them near then pulling away from the group to stand aside. "Warlight. Clayton. Raul." He nodded to each in introduction. "Diplomats."
and it's not by fire but what's forged in flame
can drown the sorrows of a huntsman's pain
