[center][img]https://txt-dynamic.static.1001fonts.net/txt/dHRmLjcyLjAwYjdlMC5UR2xzYVdVZ1JHbHZibTVsLjAA/velocity-demo.regular.png[/img]	[img]https://fontmeme.com/permalink/190120/b458a81531631a6916fa9413063c5f80.png[/img][/center][right][sub] Interacting with: [@Achronum][/sub][/right]
The bus ride didn’t take long, and walking up from the bus stop toward the middle of campus, it wasn’t hard for Aaron to spot Princess Ryner’s entourage, largely due to the small collection of students gathered around and chatting with William, Sariel, and each other. He was pleasantly surprised, however, to spot the Princess on a bench a short ways away, sitting with [i]Lilie![/i] He nearly laughed then and there; she was so mortified to even be noticed by the Princess in her texts, and now they were sitting and chatting like equals. He was glad Lilie had warmed up so quickly, and even more pleased when she waved him over. Waving back, he jogged over to meet her, new earring bouncing rudely all the way. 

Unconsciously he took a second to stop the thing from swaying before bowing properly to the Princess, and straightened up with a smile. [color=f0d705]“Good morning, Your Royal Highness,”[/color] he greeted warmly, addressing her first as was customary. Lilie’s comment, however, made his ears begin to burn. He [i]had[/i] run off abruptly, likely even a little rudely, (and now Lilie was bringing it up in front of the Princess, to his considerable chagrin) but while he wasn’t proud of it, he hadn’t had much choice. 

His smile turned sheepish and he folded his hands behind his back, not wanting to get too fidgety in front of the Princess. [color=f0d705]“Yes, sorry about that,”[/color] he replied smoothly, a bit of that well-practiced court manner coming out as he looked toward Lilie, subtly hiding his right ear from Ryner’s view. [color=f0d705]“I was called away, but that’s been taken care of now.”[/color]

[color=deepskyblue]"That's twice you've ditched me, you know,"[/color] Lilie teased him, grinning. [color=deepskyblue]"If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were scared of me! You have to make it up to me, okay?"[/color]

Ryner watched with interest and, more realistically, amusement as the pair went back and forth. The Princess hadn’t expected the Aaron Lilie called over to be the little boy she watched grow up all but locked away from the world. Between Varis and adjusting to life outside his normal world, Ryner had hoped she’d have more time before he bonded with someone. She smiled fondly at him when he greeted her and regret ran hot through her stomach. Aaron deserved so much more than his lot, the entire family did, but it didn’t matter. Her hands were tied.

[color=bc8dbf]“What a pleasant surprise! Lilie mentioned an Aaron as her new best friend but it hadn’t crossed my mind it would be my favorite Starag. But don’t tell your Aunt that or your mother will never hear the end of it.”[/color] Ryner joked before leaning into Lilie, whispering just loud enough for Aaron to hear. [color=bc8dbf]“Aaron grew up in the castle his whole life until now. You wouldn’t tell but he was quite the child, always running right up to the line and pushing it as far as he could. Just let me know if he gets out of line. I have a few stories tucked away that might help.”[/color] Ryner chuckled.

[color=bc8dbf]“How did you two end up meeting then? Do you share a class?”[/color] The Princess asked.

Aaron’s heart did jump at the thought of Lilie describing him so fondly so soon, but it was Princess Ryner’s teasing that brought another blush to his ears, this time far more welcome. He chuckled along with her, remembering some of his poorer decisions from childhood, and figured he knew which stories she was thinking of. 

He smiled wide at Ryner’s question, standing a little straighter, although he was still careful to angle his right ear a little away. Maybe it was foolish, but somewhere in the back of his mind he was worried his new “adornment” might offend her. [color=f0d705]“We do share some classes, but we actually met at the opening ceremony,”[/color] he explained fondly. [color=f0d705]“We sparred on orientation night as well; Lilie is quite a capable fencer.”[/color] 

Lilie bit her lip as she tried not to grin too wide, nodding enthusiastically at the princess's offer. Okay, yeah, she was a little too attached to him despite them only meeting a little while ago, but she couldn't help it. The princess spoke so kindly of Aaron and it was so cute how he seemed so comfortable with her, even if he was still formal. She assumed that's how people should have been, but it was too late for her to go back. Instead Lilie nodded again as Aaron confirmed how they met, straightening up slightly as she still felt like she was in a teasing mood. Honestly, she couldn't help it; the expression on his face was priceless.

[color=deepskyblue]"He kinda kicked my butt, though,"[/color] Lilie recalled, the tiniest hint of exasperation in her voice coming before she continued. [color=deepskyblue]"But that first night wasn't good until I ran into him. I thought I hurt him because he seemed stunned before he introduced himself. And then I latched on and haven't let him go since,"[/color] She looked at Aaron, raising her eyebrows. 

[color=deepskyblue]"Hopefully he won't get tired of me, I have no idea what I'm doing with nobles and I'm pretty sure it's only a matter of time before I mess up,"[/color] She was a little more nervous when she spoke, her hands slightly tugging on the hem of her skirt. 

Ryner’s eyebrow cocked at the pair’s interaction as she tried to put a finger on what she was watching. The centuries had apparently taken their toll on her empathy apparently, the banter seeming just a tad strange. On the surface, it was normal and playful but something about it seemed….

Oh dear.

[color=bc8dbf]“If anyone can teach you, Aaron can. He knows how to deal with the worst of us and still come out ahead. And I doubt Aaron will be leaving you anytime soon.”[/color] The Princess sent Aaron an amused looked with a fond shake of the head. It was cute to watch but also saddening. Aaron hadn’t had a chance to date inside the castle, always expecting the decision to be made for him. How cruel was it that he finally gets to experience this at the cost of a Sinnenodel. Hopefully, Aaron would find such pockets of happiness long enough to bolster him until this trial ended. She would have to tell his mother. The woman was keeping her head down for now but clearly she was worried for her son. And rightfully so.

[color=bc8dbf]“Have you had a chance to contact your mother, Aaron?”[/color] Ryner asked, following that train of thought rather than the one feeding her guilt as she watched the pair. 

As thrilled as he always was to get any praise from royalty, Aaron had to hold in a dark chuckle at Ryner’s compliment. He used to take pride in his mastery of etiquette, but “he knows how to deal with the worst of us and still come out ahead” seemed a little debatable now, when he felt like it was all he could do not to trip over his own feet under his new master. 

The question was unexpected, and Aaron raised his eyebrows, spinning his ring behind his back. [color=f0d705]“I spoke to her about half an hour ago, in fact,”[/color] he replied cheerfully, though another little pang of dread struck him as he remembered that he had left much to be explained. He still needed to figure out how to break the news… not to mention a few other things. [color=f0d705]“I hadn’t gotten the chance until then, although I’m hoping I can speak a little longer with her this morning.”[/color] A bit of concern found its way into his expression. [color=f0d705]“Was she worried, Your Highness?”[/color] 

[color=bc8dbf]“Of course she is. This is her first time without her son around.”[/color] Ryner’s expression turned sympathetic. [color=bc8dbf]“But if you’re having difficulties contacting her, tell me when you have a free moment or two during your night and I’ll ensure any of her duties are taken care of so you won’t have any interruptions on our side. But for now, I’ll have Sariel send her a message about your new friend at least. She’ll feel better knowing you’re adjusting well.”[/color]

Aaron nodded in understanding, giving the Princess a grateful smile. [color=f0d705]“Thank you, Your Highness. The last thing I want is to trouble her.”[/color] 

A somber look crossed his face at a memory dredged up, but as quickly as it came it was gone again, Aaron clearing his throat and brightening up as he looked to Lilie. [color=f0d705]“And speaking of friends, do you know when Salem will be done for the morning? I think he mentioned wanting to get the three of us together sometime tonight.”[/color]

Comforted by Princess Ryner's kind words, Lilie had been content to stay quiet and let the conversation continue. She did smile when she was assured Aaron wouldn't leave, though she wondered if the pair would miss having conversations like this daily. Or maybe they only got to speak once in a while? She wasn't entirely sure, but when Aaron's mother was brought up, she frowned inwardly. She hadn't gotten in touch with her own mother, either. That needed to be fixed. 

Snapping to attention once she was addressed again, Lilie perked up at the mention of Salem. [color=deepskyblue]"Oh, yes! He's in class now, but he did mention that,"[/color] She confirmed, visibly frowning. [color=deepskyblue]"He was a little shaken since he found out he isn't with Mr. Bordeleaux anymore, though. He's one of our neighbors now, with the Astorio count that he got into an argument with in Treaty Law!"[/color] She suddenly spoke with urgency and worry. [color=deepskyblue]"I felt so bad for him! I mean, you have a guy that was willing to [i]throw[/i] someone and...well, you know,"[/color] She caught herself much too late as she remembered whose presence she was in, unsure if she was supposed to have brought any of that up at all as she gave Ryner a quick glance.

Ryner’s composure hadn’t changed besides the slight rise of the brow. She hadn’t heard of anything happening but she was sure a report would be sitting on her desk when she returned to her home office. Roping the Marivaldi girl into her plans had taken most of the break period so she hadn’t had a chance to see what had come across her desk just yet.

[color=bc8dbf]“I doubt Salem will have too many problems moving forward. It will take a bit of adjusting to an Astorio after the leniency of his family’s vampires but I don’t doubt he’ll change much; he’ll only learn to hide it better.”[/color] Ryner responded easily but her brow furrowed. [color=bc8dbf]“What was this talk of people being thrown?”[/color]

[color=deepskyblue]"People? No, just me,"[/color] Lilie replied in earnest. 

[color=f0d705]“Flung across the [i]stone[/i] arena like a ragdoll by the Astorio Count under the guise of ‘penance’,”[/color] Aaron corrected her, for once making no attempt to hide his indignance. [color=f0d705]“And done to a mage belonging to another noble House, no less. It’s pure luck she wasn’t more injured, Your Highness.”[/color]

Amusement and irritation bubbled up in Ryner in equal measures. Whenever the name Astorio came up in conversation, Ryner frankly wished the sun would consume her on the spot but now hearing how this one behaved made her wish it would take them instead. It was no secret the Princess didn’t care for them and frankly, she’d rather do away with the whole family all together. If only they’d listened to her and used the damn war to kill off the line. 

But Aaron. She couldn’t hold back the chuckle that escaped her at his indignation. He looked absolutely adorable, his feathers all ruffled up in defense of his new [i]friend[/i]. She wished she knew how to use a phone camera―everything moved so quickly that sometimes it took her a few years to wrap her head around it only to find out something new was on its way!―so she could send a picture to his mother. He’d never hear the end of it. 

[color=bc8dbf]“That is certainly distressing. I’m sure I’ll have an incident report on my desk before I return.”[/color] Ryner said, the fondness in her eyes not fading despite the concern in her face. [color=bc8dbf]“Count Astorio will be dealt with in an appropriate manner. I don’t enjoy hearing my students being put in unnecessary danger.”[/color]

Lilie tried not to react too much to what either one said, her hand scratching the back of her neck. Aaron was so silly, Aine had healed her up nicely already. She felt a little bad about bringing it up in front of the princess, especially since her own vampire didn’t so much as ask if she was okay, but at this point she felt like she was beating a dead horse.  

[color=deepskyblue]“I’m sorry,”[/color] She found herself apologizing for the inconvenience, albeit she perked up again. [color=deepskyblue]“I didn’t handle it nearly as well as Aaron did, but I’ll get even once I have some magic under my belt.”[/color] She nearly bounced in her seat as she spoke, clearly ecstatic. [color=deepskyblue]“I can’t wait, I’ve always seen it on TV but getting the chance to [i]use[/i] it--it’s the best thing about being here!” [/color]

[color=bc8dbf]“I’m glad you’re enthusiastic.”[/color] Ryner chuckled, standing up and smoothing out her skirt. [color=bc8dbf]“Now, I’ll have to take my leave. I don’t have much more time before my royal duties call me back. Remember, you can always come find me or make an appointment if you need anything. Both of you.”[/color] She gave them both a serious look before the smile returned. 

Aaron’s annoyance left as quickly as it came when the Princess gave her answer; he didn’t think for a second that she would tolerate such grossly inappropriate behaviour, even from a Count, but he was glad to hear it firsthand nonetheless. He wanted to tell Lilie that there was no need to apologize, but she moved on so quickly he opted not to dredge up the subject. 

He straightened as Ryner stood, pleasant smile returning, although a twinge of guilt twisted his gut; one he wanted to address sooner rather than later. [color=f0d705]“Your Royal Highness,”[/color] he halted her politely, [color=f0d705]“may I have a word with you quickly before you go?”[/color]

[color=bc8dbf]“Of course, Aaron. Anything you need.”[/color] Ryner replied. [color=bc8dbf]“Is this something that needs to be discussed in private?”[/color]

[color=f0d705]“Preferably, if it’s convenient for you,”[/color] Aaron nodded gratefully. [color=f0d705]“I won’t take up more than a minute of your time.”[/color]

Ryner nodded and signaled to William and Sariel, who immediately started clearing the area. She guided him a little ways away from Lilie, with a [color=bc8dbf]“I’ll return him in just a moment!”[/color], and paused on the grass. Sariel made a short gesture and the wind picked up around them, making just an extra bit of noise to help cover their conversation. Ryner gave Aaron a concerned look as she waited for him to speak.

Aaron followed Ryner of to the side, grateful for the indulgence but still embarrassed. He answered her concerned look with a tight smile and spared a single cautious glance back to Lilie before he gave the Princess his full attention. 

[color=f0d705]“Thank you,”[/color] he began, voice a little lower than before. He straightened up a little more than usual and cleared his throat, familiarity giving way to solemn formality. [color=f0d705]“Your Royal Highness, I would like to humbly apologize for my conduct at dinner last night. I acted foolishly and caused a good deal of chaos as a result, and for that I beg your forgiveness. I assure you I have learned my lesson, and it will not happen again.”[/color] He completed his apology with a formal bow, as he’d been taught, his new earring swaying with the movement. 

Ryner was silent through the apology, eyes catching the flicker of light coming off the earring he bowed. She wouldn't say she was surprised at the addition. If anything, she was surprised he didn't mark his claim the first night but it brought her no joy to see a mark hanging off Aaron's ear. She itched to reach out and pluck it off, to feel the metal bend and fold between her fingers until it was the size of a pebble, and return it to the Count. Preferably between the eyes. Slowly. 

[color=bc8dbf]"You have nothing to apologize for. Varis and I thought we were prepared to handle anything. We didn't expect [i]that[/i] trick."[/color] Her expression clearing before Aaron would see it, instead sympathetic and apologetic. The guilt hit home as she lied through her teeth. It never got easier. How many seconds each year did a practiced half truth roll off her tongue and it still never got easier. [color=bc8dbf]"Anyone would have done the same. If it had been my mother or sister, I would have broken protocol too."[/color]

Even after all his years of training and the many [i]many[/i] apologies he’d issued throughout his life, Aaron found that they never made him any less nervous. It wasn’t as if he expected Princess Ryner to have him flensed, but still the few seconds between his apology and her response were agonizing. Her response, luckily, came as a great relief; he hadn’t insulted her, and that reassurance did wonders to put him more at ease.

Though while her consolation did loosen the tightness in his chest, and relief did flood out most of his guilt, Aaron still couldn’t absolve himself of [i]all[/i] responsibility. He believed the Princess sincere, and knowing he hadn’t offended her was a great comfort, but that didn’t make his recklessness any more acceptable in his new master’s eyes, he was sure of it. And now, well, that was what mattered.

[color=f0d705]“Still, I’ll endeavour to do better in the future,”[/color] he assured the Princess, offering her a curt nod and what he hoped was a reassuring smile. [color=f0d705]“Thank you for your time, Your Highness. It was a pleasure as always.”[/color]

[color=bc8dbf]“Anytime Aaron.”[/color] She smiled and tousled his hair like she used to when he was little before she waved goodbye to Lilie, making her way further into campus as the wind around them stilled. Sariel waved at Aaron and Lilie while William sent Aaron a curt nod before they followed the Princess away.

Aaron couldn't resist a grin at the hair tousling, and returned Sariel's wave and William's nod in turn before returning to Lilie, fixing his hair. [color=f0d705]"Sorry about that,"[/color] he said, checking his watch. [color=f0d705]"Do you know when Salem is going to be done?"[/color]


[hider=Obby’s generous contribution]
[i]And then Jack turned to Yusei and whispered, “Come over here and kick my engines into overdrive.”[/i]
[/hider]