[IC] A Bloody Murder

[cthulu]

Rei of course didn't seem to understand quite why the Prince was apologizing, linking his actions to work related problems rather than personal discomfort or insult. It made the melancholy prince smile faintly to himself at the idea of such a clever creature being so emotionally dim. He didn't feel the need to correct or explain himself to the fae though, the fae had not asked for his tutelage in this or any other subject and so it was common sense that dictated the Prince didn't. Besides, he somewhat enjoyed him the way he was, oddly charming and innocent, it was things like that that spurred the prince to tease the fae and he'd only known the creature two days! Yet the boy was already rapidly becoming his favourite servant, perhaps though that was due to the fact their relationship wasn't quite like that and his man servants. The fae despite his small, sweet body was powerful and strong, dangerous even. He'd seen the way he'd looked at his sister, heard that little growl when he was called hideous, there was something deeply moving to know that the assassin was already protective of his charge. Of course Alessandro might have been wrong for all he knew, the growl might have been at some dander on his clothing or at a fly, or a number of other things but the heir to the throne didn't dare ask.

The answer seemed though to become clear as the Fae started speaking of his sister and how he'd prefer not to pass judgement on her that the Prince may have been right in his assumption. It upset him a little that his sister may have made such a poor impression to the fae, after all, in a way, they two were the first real glimpse into human life the fae had had in a long time and they were showing themselves up. Though in a way it was also pleasing in a small dark way he wouldn't like to admit too, it meant she couldn't, purposely or otherwise, steal the fae from him. Then Rei went on to compliment him, tell him how he preferred Alessandro as he was when the pair of them were alone rather than the farce he put on for everyone else around him; aside the Meister and Rei of course, and once more the human had a smile upon his face. Lightly tapping the void space beside him on the bed the lounging prince laid back once more, "You are one of the few I'm afraid Rei and while I don't mind the opinion you have of my sister but if it is negative please at least be civil to her. She may seem harsh but it was the way she was raised to behave and I love her despite it."

With a deep breath the Prince sighed, "So, I guess going to a tavern tonight is out of the question, right? What do you propose we do? Once you've eaten supper of course, you can have the rest of mine too if you like, I've lost my appetite for the time being."

[PopeAlessandros]

As the prince smiles up at him Rei returns his gaze to the youth and he tilts his head curiously. Without a word he climbs on to the bed, sitting cross-legged so he can face the young man. He listens quietly, glancing once more at the trays on the table when the prince offers his portion. Blinking slowly he once more has to think over his words carefully before voicing them. He does not have to think long and after only a short pause he responds. “I understand about how she was raised, and I would have you know I will never purposefully do anything to jeopardize either my position here, or your life. She loves you, and you her, and I can see that, but that does not remove her form the list of possible people who are sending assassins after you. In fact, that feeling pushed her up on the list. Any intense emotion can lead to such actions, not just negative ones.”

Running a hand through his hair he glances at the door as someone passes by. “I will avoid confrontation with everyone who does not call for such a response.” He looks back to the prince, a light flash of emotion passing behind his eyes. “I have never been one before, but I have read many books with bodyguards in them, though most of the time they were knights of some sort. I may not be exactly what I have read about, but I like those people. I will act with the honor and civility expected of any knight, which of course includes not doing anything to dishonor my ward.” His head tilts cutely to the side and he crosses his arms, “This also includes treating females more delicately, though I know many a female in my line of work that would find such treatment insulting.”

The fae's stomach lets out a little growl causing him to stare at it. After another pause he stands and wanders back over to the food to eat while he talks, leaning against the table rather than sitting in a chair. “I would rather, at least for a couple days, that we stay on the grounds at night. At least until I can examine the town more thoroughly. If it is your wish to go out at night on occasion, I of course can not stop you, but it would be safer if I could be giving a day or two to map the town in the same way that I am mapping the castle and grounds.” He looks to the prince with his usual emotionless expression. “When I was planning your assassination most of my plans centered around the castle and in particular your room, so though I got my information in taverns and traveled the roofs, I am not quite familiar with the streets as I would like for such an excursion after sun down.”

He takes a sip of his drink, completely unaware that he is rambling a bit at this point. “True, I can see very well in the dark, but at the same time the sunlight or at least half light is better.” Here he pauses to give thought to the actual question posed, unsure if there is any response to give. Finally with a nod he replies, “The final wing of the castle is the one the library is in. If you do not mind I would like to examine the wing then explore the library a bit. The sooner I get the layout of the castle the sooner I can sleep at night.” Done with his bit Rei focuses on eating, listening intently to the prince at the same time. His small body hides a high metabolism and he downs food rather quickly.

[cthulu]

The prince layed his head on the fae’s lap, a bad habit he likely picked up from the few times he is allowed to socialise with women. His hands under and behind his head to keep the majority of his weight off the boys lap, “I don’t like the idea of my sister sending an assassin after me and personally I don’t think my heart will believe it. Despite her views we were close before my brother was killed.” He lightly closes his eyes and draws a deep breath only to let it out slowly from his nose. “However that is why you are here, my family may not love me but I’m predisposed to think good of them, even my father, as laughable as that might seem.”

Eyes still closed he smiles faintly as Rei reassures him that no one, aside a true threat, will be attacked or treated differently and a slightly secretive smirk briefly wiggles onto his lips. The language the fae is using, while not noticeably different from any other time they spoke holds hints of, affection. Alessandro did not for a moment think it was aimed at him or his family but the books and perhaps the position he now held. He spoke of bodyguards with the same wonder the children in the village spoke of the knights in the castle and personally, while it had been a short time he could imagine Rei as a wonderful knight. “Perhaps you’ll be one someday.” He idly commented, imagining the petite male in light armours, perhaps a mithril chainmail or some fae plate, glittering like a thousand suns and removing the ice in those pale eyes.

As Rei started to move the Prince opened his eyes and raised his head, moving to sit up from his lounging position. There was no denying the pout he wore as the fae refused his desire to go drink his pain away. It was probably for the best anyway, while it was unlikely he’d be recognised that only increased his chances of getting into drunken brawls or caught up with a certain type of woman. His father of course would be disgusted and that would only cause a heap of new problems and arguments for them to have in front of his darling little sister.

Alessandro had to hide a quiet laugh behind his hand however when the fae’s goal was turned towards the books of the castle, it was of little surprise of course and he had seen the love –for lack of any words better fitting- that Rei had displayed for knowledge. “The library, then you should go there when you have finished. I am sure I would only get in the way and if I can’t drink I think I shall get myself an early night to better my chances of being able to deal with the adventures tomorrow. I should take a long look in that library, I do not doubt there to be many a secret corridor, compartment or door in that old room.” He offered the fae a wink that he was pretty sure the boy wouldn’t understand (all it meant was that the Prince didn’t mind if duty somewhat took a back burner should there be material the fae liked).

Surprised at how quickly the food from the plates was disappearing he tried to hide another chuckle and he stood from his bed to shuck his shirt and throw it into the basket for his dirty linen. Crossing the room he took a wooden toothed comb from a drawer in his dresser and ran it through the fluffy blonde locks. When brushed they were somewhat straighter and flatter but still held the volume and thickness his own sisters hair had. With hair brushed flat he tied it loosely with a length of leather cord into a short ponytail at the back of his neck.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei nods slowly, swallowing and washing down his mouthful before replying to something the prince said earlier about family. “I understand about predispositions. I do not recall my family in the slightest, however I still felt compelled to seek revenge for their murders.” Looking down at the bone in his fingers he adds, “As to being a knight, I do not think that will ever happen.” He does not sound sad at the announcement, that same detached tone he always has setting back into his voice like a well fitting glove. The look on the prince's face after he places his request that they stay in the castle for the night reminds the fae of a human child who has been denied candy and wonders if he should have kept his mouth shut, however as the prince replies he returns his focus to the meal.

With a loud snap he breaks off a bit of the bone and begins eating it as if it were no harder than a cracker or hard nut. He finishes the bite quickly and turns to look at the prince when he announces that he'll be going to bed early, wondering if his thoughts on secret passages and the like are true. 'I do not see a reason for so many things to be connected to the library, though that may be the very point of having them. If the people in the castle were attacked and they all escaped into the passageway riddle library then the attackers may think as I do and not rush to capture them, thinking them trapped' Nodding slowly he watches the prince move around the room, his eyes once more taking in those scars at the young man's back is revealed.

'He seems to be in a much lighter mood now. . .I wonder why? I practically deny him his evening fun out right, and he has hardly eaten anything. I do not understand how he shifts moods like this' It does not even cross the little fae's mind that it is he himself who has brought up the prince's mood. He has no idea how his words and actions amuse the young man, and given his normal mental workings he may never come to realize just how much the youth enjoys his company. He's an assassin after all. Most people are terrified when he's around, even if they wish to hire him. He downs the rest of the bone as the prince is brushing his hair, something Rei himself has never had to do due to the nature of his hair, and grabs the last little bit of food, stuffing it in a cloth napkin before tucking it into a pocket for later consumption.

Heading to the door he offers a nod towards Alessandro before taking his leave of the man. Outside a little ways down the hall he spots the youth from the morning who'd given him that odd look. He closes the door quietly and walks off towards the young man. 'He is the one I saw in the prince's window. I believe he is some kind of personal servant. . . .' He stares openly at the guy as he passes and the young man responds the same way everyone else does when he stares. 'He is no real threat. At least not for now' Rei continues down the main stairs and heads off to the library wing. His magic snakes out around him, taking in every little bit of information as usual.

When he finally steps through the large double doors into the vast expanse that is the hall of tomes Rei stops, his countenance changing ever so slightly. The change would go unnoticed by anyone who does not know him well, and that means almost everyone. His eyes take in every minute detail available for them to see, his body still as his head moves this way and that like a raptor seeking out it's prey. He stands like this for a full minute until a slight movement catches his attention. 'The prince said there is a keeper of the books here. . .' He muses, stepping into the room proper and closing the doors behind him.

The movement turns out to be who he thought it was and as soon as the fit elderly man spots him he looks ready to either scold him, or flee. Rei walks up the central dais, shaped like a stack of circles, with a large circular desk at the top where the keeper stands inside like his own little fortress. He eyes the boy for a time before speaking up. “You. . . You're that new bodyguard of the prince's aren't you?” His voice is a bit wheezy, like a man too long on the pipe. Rei nods. He shakes a hand. “A little runt like you, eh? As well, wouldn't expect any better from that one.” He points to the shelves as Rei suppresses an unconscious growl at the way the man speaks of the prince. “This is the largest library in the whole kingdom, and a lot of these books are irreplaceable, you hear? I don't want you just tearing your way through this place and leaving things about all willy nilly, got it? You put things back where you found them, and you treat these books with respect, or else orders or no orders, I'll kick you out unless you have the brat himself with you, understand?”

Rei tilts his head tot he side, understanding the man's words, but at the same time wondering at how a servant could have the right to usurp the prince's orders. A part of him even doubts that he can even do it, and the words are on the tip of his tongue before he recalls that the prince wants him to avoid conflict unless absolutely necessary. 'Disagreeing with a man like this would likely end in a verbal fight' he concludes and simply nods. “I understand. I have never mistreated a book, and do not intend to start now.” His tone seems to bring back the urge to flee in the man and he steps away from the young fae.

“Well, so long as you understand that. . .” His voice is much quieter now, and that note of fear feels very familiar to the assassin. Without another word Rei looks once more around the room before heading for the nearest wall to begin his search. The entire library is round, the shelves curved, and the pillars likewise rounded. The dark red finish on the wood is off set by the white walls. The room is three stories high with balconies running along the walls, leaving the middle open so you can see the roof if standing in or near the center of the room. The areas not taken up by shelves, some of which are free standing turning the walkway between the wall and the next curves of shelves into a kind of tunnel with only the occasional break to exit the tunnels, are filled with various chairs and tables, no doubt not often used by the looks of things.

[cthulu]

Alessandro, once the fae was gone, finished undressing, his clothes left for his man servant to pick up and take away. He readied himself for bed by washing his face and then once readied he blew out first one, then another of the candles. Idly he wondered how he could be so calm, an attempt on his life not two days passed and he was here, in his own room, settling in for sleep like nothing had happened. Of course, if he lost sleep every time a kidnap or murder attempt had happened he'd likely never sleep again, though this was different, far from his usual non-challance at the idea of his upcoming demise he felt something, a hint of it perhaps, wavering just out of perception. While Rei had opened a whole world of uncertainty up before him something about the diminutive fae made him feel...safe.

With head on pillow and sheets pulled to chin the prince settled in for sleep, hoping dreams and nightmares a like left his night uninterrupted, there was little a fae could do to guard against ones own mind after all.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei finishes his survey of the first floor of the library fairly quickly, marking three passages leading out of the castle. One leads under the back wall, likely an escape passage for if the castle is on fire. Another has collapsed, though if he is any real judge of such things it would have lead to the old barracks he saw outside the walls so that the soldiers could charge right into the castle should their be raiders or assassins. He wonders vaguely if perhaps they had kept up with that tunnel if the prince would have had less attempts on his life. 'There must have been quite a few for him to have reacted the way he did to me. . .' he muses. The last is the most well concealed, actually behind a bookshelf. It also happens to be the most well maintained. This last one leads to the tower where they had gone for the prince's history lesson.

'It must be their version of a safe house. I am no expert on castles, however that tower is far more defendable a position than the palace proper' As he makes his way to the second floor he can sense eyes on him. Once he reaches the next level he looks back to find out who's looking and once more has to take a moment. The design of the library makes it possible to look to each of the floors from almost anywhere in the library, and the higher vantage point gives the fae something new and interesting to take in. It is less the structure and more the number of books he can see all at once that almost seems to move him, though even if it seems that way the feeling is very muted. The underground almost tunnel like design of the hall of books in the fae village is far more close feeling and limits how much you can see.

He smiles, though he does not notice, and after glancing down at the keeper, who jumps slightly and shuffles off, he makes his way around the second and third floors in no time. Not wanting to be too far from the young man he's guarding for too long once his survey is done he makes his way swiftly from the room. The keeper watches him go and lets out a sigh as he closes the doors quietly behind him. It doesn't take long for Rei to return to his room, quickly emptying his pockets of the food he stored before wandering over to the secret passage connecting his room to the prince's. Recalling what the youth had said about checking on him he doesn’t hesitate to open the wall and make his way through the dark to the other end.

The wall opens silently and the fae enters the room. His eyes fall at first onto his ward, but seeing him still and quiet he slips further into the room and begins checking it for any dangers. Cracking the shutters slightly so he can look down upon the grounds he is careful so that the light from outside does not fall on the young man's sleeping form. 'It seems quiet tonight. Not even any of the stable crew away it would seem. Only the night guard. . .I wonder. . .He said it would be strange to learn from an assassin, but would he object to bringing my suggestion to the captain of the guard about shifting his patrols so that the castle is safer against my kind of folk. . .'

He sighs silently and closes the shutters, still very confused about the young man's rejection. It would make his life easier, and make it less likely that he would have to come in conflict with the man should his actions go beyond verbal correction with Alessandro. Magic creeps out across the room, checking it over as the fae goes over it with his eyes as well until at last he is satisfied. As he begins walking over to the open wall, intent on getting some sleep, Rei pauses, struck with a sudden curiosity. Turning he silently approaches the prince's bed, coming to a stop right next to it.

The youth's hair is covering most of his face and on impulse Rei reaches out, gently brushing those golden locks aside so he can see Alessandro's face properly. Leaning back slowly he looks, taking in his features, his slightly sleepy mind wandering vaguely about with random notions. The prince is a curiosity, one Rei can't seem to figure out, and as his mind tries desperately to put the pieces together the fae simply watches the young man sleep. He only stands there for less than a minute before turning and heading back to his own room, but for his constantly firing mind it felt like a lot longer. Once in his room he wastes no time in stripping off his clothes and crawling into bed, his only adornment the bandanna to cover his ear tips. Then with a yawn and a stretch he curls up under the covers and falls asleep.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei finishes his survey of the first floor of the library fairly quickly, marking three passages leading out of the castle. One leads under the back wall, likely an escape passage for if the castle is on fire. Another has collapsed, though if he is any real judge of such things it would have lead to the old barracks he saw outside the walls so that the soldiers could charge right into the castle should their be raiders or assassins. He wonders vaguely if perhaps they had kept up with that tunnel if the prince would have had less attempts on his life. 'There must have been quite a few for him to have reacted the way he did to me. . .' he muses. The last is the most well concealed, actually behind a bookshelf. It also happens to be the most well maintained. This last one leads to the tower where they had gone for the prince's history lesson.

'It must be their version of a safe house. I am no expert on castles, however that tower is far more defendable a position than the palace proper' As he makes his way to the second floor he can sense eyes on him. Once he reaches the next level he looks back to find out who's looking and once more has to take a moment. The design of the library makes it possible to look to each of the floors from almost anywhere in the library, and the higher vantage point gives the fae something new and interesting to take in. It is less the structure and more the number of books he can see all at once that almost seems to move him, though even if it seems that way the feeling is very muted. The underground almost tunnel like design of the hall of books in the fae village is far more close feeling and limits how much you can see.

He smiles, though he does not notice, and after glancing down at the keeper, who jumps slightly and shuffles off, he makes his way around the second and third floors in no time. Not wanting to be too far from the young man he's guarding for too long once his survey is done he makes his way swiftly from the room. The keeper watches him go and lets out a sigh as he closes the doors quietly behind him. It doesn't take long for Rei to return to his room, quickly emptying his pockets of the food he stored before wandering over to the secret passage connecting his room to the prince's. Recalling what the youth had said about checking on him he doesn’t hesitate to open the wall and make his way through the dark to the other end.

The wall opens silently and the fae enters the room. His eyes fall at first onto his ward, but seeing him still and quiet he slips further into the room and begins checking it for any dangers. Cracking the shutters slightly so he can look down upon the grounds he is careful so that the light from outside does not fall on the young man's sleeping form. 'It seems quiet tonight. Not even any of the stable crew away it would seem. Only the night guard. . .I wonder. . .He said it would be strange to learn from an assassin, but would he object to bringing my suggestion to the captain of the guard about shifting his patrols so that the castle is safer against my kind of folk. . .'

He sighs silently and closes the shutters, still very confused about the young man's rejection. It would make his life easier, and make it less likely that he would have to come in conflict with the man should his actions go beyond verbal correction with Alessandro. Magic creeps out across the room, checking it over as the fae goes over it with his eyes as well until at last he is satisfied. As he begins walking over to the open wall, intent on getting some sleep, Rei pauses, struck with a sudden curiosity. Turning he silently approaches the prince's bed, coming to a stop right next to it.

The youth's hair is covering most of his face and on impulse Rei reaches out, gently brushing those golden locks aside so he can see Alessandro's face properly. Leaning back slowly he looks, taking in his features, his slightly sleepy mind wandering vaguely about with random notions. The prince is a curiosity, one Rei can't seem to figure out, and as his mind tries desperately to put the pieces together the fae simply watches the young man sleep. He only stands there for less than a minute before turning and heading back to his own room, but for his constantly firing mind it felt like a lot longer. Once in his room he wastes no time in stripping off his clothes and crawling into bed, his only adornment the bandanna to cover his ear tips. Then with a yawn and a stretch he curls up under the covers and falls asleep.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei finishes his survey of the first floor of the library fairly quickly, marking three passages leading out of the castle. One leads under the back wall, likely an escape passage for if the castle is on fire. Another has collapsed, though if he is any real judge of such things it would have lead to the old barracks he saw outside the walls so that the soldiers could charge right into the castle should their be raiders or assassins. He wonders vaguely if perhaps they had kept up with that tunnel if the prince would have had less attempts on his life. 'There must have been quite a few for him to have reacted the way he did to me. . .' he muses. The last is the most well concealed, actually behind a bookshelf. It also happens to be the most well maintained. This last one leads to the tower where they had gone for the prince's history lesson.

'It must be their version of a safe house. I am no expert on castles, however that tower is far more defendable a position than the palace proper' As he makes his way to the second floor he can sense eyes on him. Once he reaches the next level he looks back to find out who's looking and once more has to take a moment. The design of the library makes it possible to look to each of the floors from almost anywhere in the library, and the higher vantage point gives the fae something new and interesting to take in. It is less the structure and more the number of books he can see all at once that almost seems to move him, though even if it seems that way the feeling is very muted. The underground almost tunnel like design of the hall of books in the fae village is far more close feeling and limits how much you can see.

He smiles, though he does not notice, and after glancing down at the keeper, who jumps slightly and shuffles off, he makes his way around the second and third floors in no time. Not wanting to be too far from the young man he's guarding for too long once his survey is done he makes his way swiftly from the room. The keeper watches him go and lets out a sigh as he closes the doors quietly behind him. It doesn't take long for Rei to return to his room, quickly emptying his pockets of the food he stored before wandering over to the secret passage connecting his room to the prince's. Recalling what the youth had said about checking on him he doesn’t hesitate to open the wall and make his way through the dark to the other end.

The wall opens silently and the fae enters the room. His eyes fall at first onto his ward, but seeing him still and quiet he slips further into the room and begins checking it for any dangers. Cracking the shutters slightly so he can look down upon the grounds he is careful so that the light from outside does not fall on the young man's sleeping form. 'It seems quiet tonight. Not even any of the stable crew away it would seem. Only the night guard. . .I wonder. . .He said it would be strange to learn from an assassin, but would he object to bringing my suggestion to the captain of the guard about shifting his patrols so that the castle is safer against my kind of folk. . .'

He sighs silently and closes the shutters, still very confused about the young man's rejection. It would make his life easier, and make it less likely that he would have to come in conflict with the man should his actions go beyond verbal correction with Alessandro. Magic creeps out across the room, checking it over as the fae goes over it with his eyes as well until at last he is satisfied. As he begins walking over to the open wall, intent on getting some sleep, Rei pauses, struck with a sudden curiosity. Turning he silently approaches the prince's bed, coming to a stop right next to it.

The youth's hair is covering most of his face and on impulse Rei reaches out, gently brushing those golden locks aside so he can see Alessandro's face properly. Leaning back slowly he looks, taking in his features, his slightly sleepy mind wandering vaguely about with random notions. The prince is a curiosity, one Rei can't seem to figure out, and as his mind tries desperately to put the pieces together the fae simply watches the young man sleep. He only stands there for less than a minute before turning and heading back to his own room, but for his constantly firing mind it felt like a lot longer. Once in his room he wastes no time in stripping off his clothes and crawling into bed, his only adornment the bandanna to cover his ear tips. Then with a yawn and a stretch he curls up under the covers and falls asleep.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei finishes his survey of the first floor of the library fairly quickly, marking three passages leading out of the castle. One leads under the back wall, likely an escape passage for if the castle is on fire. Another has collapsed, though if he is any real judge of such things it would have lead to the old barracks he saw outside the walls so that the soldiers could charge right into the castle should their be raiders or assassins. He wonders vaguely if perhaps they had kept up with that tunnel if the prince would have had less attempts on his life. 'There must have been quite a few for him to have reacted the way he did to me. . .' he muses. The last is the most well concealed, actually behind a bookshelf. It also happens to be the most well maintained. This last one leads to the tower where they had gone for the prince's history lesson.

'It must be their version of a safe house. I am no expert on castles, however that tower is far more defendable a position than the palace proper' As he makes his way to the second floor he can sense eyes on him. Once he reaches the next level he looks back to find out who's looking and once more has to take a moment. The design of the library makes it possible to look to each of the floors from almost anywhere in the library, and the higher vantage point gives the fae something new and interesting to take in. It is less the structure and more the number of books he can see all at once that almost seems to move him, though even if it seems that way the feeling is very muted. The underground almost tunnel like design of the hall of books in the fae village is far more close feeling and limits how much you can see.

He smiles, though he does not notice, and after glancing down at the keeper, who jumps slightly and shuffles off, he makes his way around the second and third floors in no time. Not wanting to be too far from the young man he's guarding for too long once his survey is done he makes his way swiftly from the room. The keeper watches him go and lets out a sigh as he closes the doors quietly behind him. It doesn't take long for Rei to return to his room, quickly emptying his pockets of the food he stored before wandering over to the secret passage connecting his room to the prince's. Recalling what the youth had said about checking on him he doesn’t hesitate to open the wall and make his way through the dark to the other end.

The wall opens silently and the fae enters the room. His eyes fall at first onto his ward, but seeing him still and quiet he slips further into the room and begins checking it for any dangers. Cracking the shutters slightly so he can look down upon the grounds he is careful so that the light from outside does not fall on the young man's sleeping form. 'It seems quiet tonight. Not even any of the stable crew away it would seem. Only the night guard. . .I wonder. . .He said it would be strange to learn from an assassin, but would he object to bringing my suggestion to the captain of the guard about shifting his patrols so that the castle is safer against my kind of folk. . .'

He sighs silently and closes the shutters, still very confused about the young man's rejection. It would make his life easier, and make it less likely that he would have to come in conflict with the man should his actions go beyond verbal correction with Alessandro. Magic creeps out across the room, checking it over as the fae goes over it with his eyes as well until at last he is satisfied. As he begins walking over to the open wall, intent on getting some sleep, Rei pauses, struck with a sudden curiosity. Turning he silently approaches the prince's bed, coming to a stop right next to it.

The youth's hair is covering most of his face and on impulse Rei reaches out, gently brushing those golden locks aside so he can see Alessandro's face properly. Leaning back slowly he looks, taking in his features, his slightly sleepy mind wandering vaguely about with random notions. The prince is a curiosity, one Rei can't seem to figure out, and as his mind tries desperately to put the pieces together the fae simply watches the young man sleep. He only stands there for less than a minute before turning and heading back to his own room, but for his constantly firing mind it felt like a lot longer. Once in his room he wastes no time in stripping off his clothes and crawling into bed, his only adornment the bandanna to cover his ear tips. Then with a yawn and a stretch he curls up under the covers and falls asleep.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei finishes his survey of the first floor of the library fairly quickly, marking three passages leading out of the castle. One leads under the back wall, likely an escape passage for if the castle is on fire. Another has collapsed, though if he is any real judge of such things it would have lead to the old barracks he saw outside the walls so that the soldiers could charge right into the castle should their be raiders or assassins. He wonders vaguely if perhaps they had kept up with that tunnel if the prince would have had less attempts on his life. 'There must have been quite a few for him to have reacted the way he did to me. . .' he muses. The last is the most well concealed, actually behind a bookshelf. It also happens to be the most well maintained. This last one leads to the tower where they had gone for the prince's history lesson.

'It must be their version of a safe house. I am no expert on castles, however that tower is far more defendable a position than the palace proper' As he makes his way to the second floor he can sense eyes on him. Once he reaches the next level he looks back to find out who's looking and once more has to take a moment. The design of the library makes it possible to look to each of the floors from almost anywhere in the library, and the higher vantage point gives the fae something new and interesting to take in. It is less the structure and more the number of books he can see all at once that almost seems to move him, though even if it seems that way the feeling is very muted. The underground almost tunnel like design of the hall of books in the fae village is far more close feeling and limits how much you can see.

He smiles, though he does not notice, and after glancing down at the keeper, who jumps slightly and shuffles off, he makes his way around the second and third floors in no time. Not wanting to be too far from the young man he's guarding for too long once his survey is done he makes his way swiftly from the room. The keeper watches him go and lets out a sigh as he closes the doors quietly behind him. It doesn't take long for Rei to return to his room, quickly emptying his pockets of the food he stored before wandering over to the secret passage connecting his room to the prince's. Recalling what the youth had said about checking on him he doesn’t hesitate to open the wall and make his way through the dark to the other end.

The wall opens silently and the fae enters the room. His eyes fall at first onto his ward, but seeing him still and quiet he slips further into the room and begins checking it for any dangers. Cracking the shutters slightly so he can look down upon the grounds he is careful so that the light from outside does not fall on the young man's sleeping form. 'It seems quiet tonight. Not even any of the stable crew away it would seem. Only the night guard. . .I wonder. . .He said it would be strange to learn from an assassin, but would he object to bringing my suggestion to the captain of the guard about shifting his patrols so that the castle is safer against my kind of folk. . .'

He sighs silently and closes the shutters, still very confused about the young man's rejection. It would make his life easier, and make it less likely that he would have to come in conflict with the man should his actions go beyond verbal correction with Alessandro. Magic creeps out across the room, checking it over as the fae goes over it with his eyes as well until at last he is satisfied. As he begins walking over to the open wall, intent on getting some sleep, Rei pauses, struck with a sudden curiosity. Turning he silently approaches the prince's bed, coming to a stop right next to it.

The youth's hair is covering most of his face and on impulse Rei reaches out, gently brushing those golden locks aside so he can see Alessandro's face properly. Leaning back slowly he looks, taking in his features, his slightly sleepy mind wandering vaguely about with random notions. The prince is a curiosity, one Rei can't seem to figure out, and as his mind tries desperately to put the pieces together the fae simply watches the young man sleep. He only stands there for less than a minute before turning and heading back to his own room, but for his constantly firing mind it felt like a lot longer. Once in his room he wastes no time in stripping off his clothes and crawling into bed, his only adornment the bandanna to cover his ear tips. Then with a yawn and a stretch he curls up under the covers and falls asleep.

[cthulu]

At the other end of the castle a curly haired princess sat with her maid brushing her hair,
"Your brother ma'am?" The hand maiden asked,
"I'm afraid so, I love him dearly, perhaps too much so."
"That will likely end when they find him a suitor, every little sister's first crush is their big brother."
"No...I feel its more than that...It's silly I know."
"I suppose so ma'am. Yet he is rather attractive with his jet black hair and pale eyes."
"Yes and it is not unknown for a king to marry off two siblings to keep the bloodline pure, especially in uncertain times."
"I suppose that is true ma'am"
"Thank you Constance, now leave me." The hand maiden gave a dip of a bow and slipped out the room while the Princess sat alone with her thoughts, oh she knew it was stupid, ridiculous even to harbor such childish feelings for her brother. She'd always had mixed love and hatred for the boy but wasn't hatred just an extension of love? You couldn't hate someone you didn't love as it was such a powerful emotion. She brushed her curls one last time before using a ribbon to tie them neatly behind her and off her shoulders. She was a beautiful woman, everyone said so, with her milky white pale skin and her slender features, she was nicknamed 'the swan' among many of her suitors and yet the only person she really wanted to see her was her brother. When they were younger he had no friends and he always looked forward to her company, he bought her flowers and sang her poems he'd written, they we re never any good of course but they were hers none the less. He'd always been around when it was convenient for her and now they were older he'd spend less and less time with her, this year it was almost as if he had no time for her at all and when he was married he'd see her even less, it infuriated her, the very idea made her angry enough to scowl.

Sometimes she wondered if it would be better if he were dead, she could grieve him then and get on with her life, find a man who would worship her like he had once and not think again on her silly crush. Only, she wasn't sure if her heart could take his death either, it was such a confusing feeling. So slipping on her robe and soft slippers she waited until all was quiet outside her door and quietly she slipped from her room and down the corridors, clasping a letter opener in her gowns pocket.

____

The king paced his room while his doting wife sat in her gown and night clothes with her embroidery. The Steward sat at the table as the King paced, a mass of papers before him and a look of intense concern on his face as he watched the King.
"Darn it all, this is no good, no good at all!" The King stopped his pacing to glance to the Steward, "What about Helena, the daughter of King Harold?"
"Helena is betrothed, m'lord."
"Damn it. That boy has never been easy, what am I to do? I can not marry him off to just anyone, they will find out his secret in due course and then what?! Gods above this would be easier if he just died."
"Yes m'lord." The steward uttered, slightly nervous of the King's legendary temper.
"Shut up! Oh if we could just get rid of him and marry his sister, she'd make a far better ruler too and we'd not have the issue of legitimacy from her."
"No mi'lord."
"Even if we sent that damned fool of a boy away though, the people would talk, they'd lose faith in us and god knows they are restless enough as is."
"True mi'lord. We need to select someone who we can trust to keep the boys hideous secret and not try and extort you for it."
"Oh but who outside of these four walls is that loyal?"
"That does seem to be the issue mi'lord."
"Evangeline."
"Your daughter mi'lord, what about her?"
"In the days of old, when the Prince's couldn't be found a suitable suitor the eldest youngest sister was married off to them...if Evangeline marries that boy, then the secret would be safe, she would never betray me, further the Kingdom will have the strong leader it deserves, her and we can slowly faze the boy out completely." It was the first time the Queen had looked up from her sewing and she looked mortified, her precious daughter married to -that- boy, it was an awful notion.
"Mi'lord you can't possibly mean that!" The Steward was struck hard across the face with the back of the King's hand,
"Silence boy, respect your King. No, we can't do it right away, it'd look suspicious. We'll have him court the other women on the list, entertain them, then before the new year we shall announce that no suitable match has been made and we have, after much thought, decided the only way forward is to pair the Prince and Princess together. We'll make some speech about strengthening our lands first before trying to help other lands, make something up about making the people our first priority. They'll like that. It'll go smoothly as long as we play it right."

____

Evangeline had made it to the other side of the castle mostly unnoticed, the hour was drawing late but still some people milled about and so she was careful, if she was seen sneaking to see Alessandro there would surely be trouble but she had to see him. With all the gossip between her and her handmaiden her heart felt full of love that would only stop aching upon viewing her brother. Perhaps then she could figure out what her heart truly desired.

Of course the further down the hall she got the less the idea appealed to her, at first it had seemed so romantic and innocent but now her mind was wrecked with paranoia's and worries, what if he was awake? What would she say? What if he was asleep? There were too many risks and yet she hadn't convinced herself to turn and leave. She hovered long enough to watch, with some dissatisfaction, as Alessandro's chamber boy loped into his room, it angered her to think a commoner could get to be so close to her brother, the boy did everything for him. After ten long minutes she crept from her place and slipped down to her brothers room, her hand hovering near the handle, she could hear nothing but the soft snores beyond the heavy door. For a moment she stood there and then with her oft slippers quietly sounding on the rug she fled back to her room, overcome with embarrassment and shame at her actions and her feelings.

____

Alessandro had slept soundly, through both Rei's visit and his sisters and aside the two visitations the night was still, his boy came in to freshen his water and take away the dirty clothes and stoke the fire in the hearth. A metal basin was dropped and there was occasionally the barking of the dogs in the kennels but the night was still until the morning sun fell on his face as his boy busied abouth is room throwing back the shutters to let in the light and arranging the new clothes for the morning.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei wakes up briefly when he feels someone enter his ward's room, and again when they leave. The second time he stays awake a bit longer, his magic detecting someone right outside his room for a short period of time. In his half sleep state he easily identifies both person's as nonthreatening and manages to fall right back to sleep after the second person leaves. He has a fleeting though of how disturbing it would be growing up with people constantly coming around when one's asleep, however that thought is quickly muffled down by a mix of sleep and the understanding that every person is different. In other words, it is normal for a man in his station.

The final invasion into the prince's room rouses Rei from his sleep for the day and with a light sight he rolls about a few times before practically slithering out of bed. Making sure his headband is in place the fae pokes at his clothes and wonders how often he is expected to change clothes during the week. Most humans perspire a lot more than a fae, so they change clothes at least once a day, however other than the time under the direct sun Rei has as of yet to actually sweat in his clothing. 'It would be interesting to try on something different however. I should ask if I could obtain more clothing like this, perhaps in different colors. . .'

As he thinks about the color it occurs to him that the tunic matches the colors he sees hanging on the walls all over the castle and on most of the guards. 'Well, perhaps he would not permit other colors. I have seen that wearing the colors of a particular family marks them as property of the family and this affords them some kind of protection' His head tilts this way and that, wondering over things of no real consequence until at last he decides it's time to climb into his clothes and wait for breakfast. Once everything but his boots are on he wanders over to the window and opens it wide. The smell of the air and the feel of it on his skin reminds him that he needs to ask the prince to spend a little time in the garden on days that they do not go to the countryside.

After a few bland minutes of staring a knock comes on his chamber door and he is snapped back out of his mind. Wandering over he once more startles the servant carrying his morning meal. It is a different servant this time, a middle aged male, and by his motion as the door opens it is easy to surmise that he'd been listening against the wood. Once the man recovers he's struck dumb for a moment as he catches sight of Rei's wide staring eyes. Without a word Rei steps back, keeping his eyes on the man out of habit and after another handful of second he manages to get his feet moving and walks it to deliver the meal.

Once out of the room the servant all but dashes down the hall and for several long seconds Rei looks after him wondering if he's going to have to ask the prince how not to terrify the help unintentionally. 'Not that I mind, it makes me more intimidating, however if this keeps up they may run out of people who are willing to deliver my breakfast. I could always go down to the kitchen, but I do not think that would be well received. Also, it would take me too far from the prince so early in the morning' With a slow blink he slips back into his room and wanders over to the table. Once more he takes the meat and sets it aside to cool, this time focusing on the fruits first and foremost.

~*~*~*~*~

The small fae clings to his bag tightly, eying the human sitting next to him with both curiosity, and a healthy dose of mistrust. He's only been riding with the man for about an hour, the driver having spotted him walking down the road barefoot and taking pity on him. Though he feels grateful for the help, he does not trust the man. He reaches up often to the floral wreath he made himself to cover his ears, knowing that humans hate his kind. He knows this. Humans hate fae, it's just a fact, and a part of him seriously wonders just what would happen to him if this seemingly kind man found out what he truly is.

The man on the other hand, slightly intoxicated but sober enough to drive his cart in a straight line, finds the little boy's actions quite amusing. The way he clings to his bag, like it contains all his possessions in the world. The way he touches the wreath, like it would be a downright tragedy if it so much as slipped slightly out of place. He finds the whole thing quite funny. After about an hour on the bumpy road, the sun slowly creeping over the horizon, the driver reaches over and tries to playfully ruffle the boy's hair, with quite surprising results.

With a yelp the boy practically flies off the cart. The man tries to call him back, to apologize, however without warning the boy seems to vanish from view. It's not completely impossible, there are a few large rocks and some tall grass to hide in, however to his slightly buzzed mind the driver mutters something about it being unnatural before snapping his team back into motion. Meanwhile the child watches him leave from within a tuft of grass just large enough for him to vanish into, his breath slowing as he manages to get a hold of himself. He knows he over reacted, however his fear overrode his sense and in that instant, he couldn't stop himself.

With a light huff he stands up carefully as the cart moves too far off to possibly be a threat any more and with a steadying breath he feels out which direction he should go. His head turns this way and that like a radar dish searching for a signal, and when at last he finds his direction he's off at a slow but steady pace. Figuring he would have had to get off the cart eventually anyways he consoles himself in that fact and heads out over the grassy plain and away fro the road.

[cthulu]

Alessandro dressed and was groomed, his blond locks tamed and pinned down so his wig might fit better and smoother, it was then brushed until it looked like liquid night and the rest of the preparations were made for the morning. When asked if he wanted his breakfast bought up he shook his head and rose from his seat, brushing at the few loose hairs the wig had lost, not that it was in any way noticeable. The boy bowed and left, knowing better than to question his master and once he'd made sure his 'hideous' hair was fully out of sight Alessandro left his room and made his way down to the main hall, he had promised Avangeline that he would join her for breakfast and he couldn't very well let her down. Letting himself from his room he was tempted to inform Rei of his intentions, hovering in the hall way a moment he wondered if there was really any need. The fae seemed to have clear knowledge of the Prince's movements most of the time and it was unlikely anything was set to happen when he sat with his sister for breakfast. There was a royal food taster so poisoning was out of the question and with his parents not in attendance there was no likelihood of arguments.

Not wishing to disturb the fae he decided to let Rei figure it out himself and with that he turned and made his way down the hall to the dining area. He spotted his sister as soon as he came upon the feasting hall, sitting in her favoured spot where the sun lit her hair until it seemed to shimmer with starlight. Offering a smile as he approached the hall the smile, and his steps, faltered when he saw his father sat at the head of the table. Giving a side long glance to his sister she offered a sheepish smile and returned to washing her fingers before the meal. Alessandro contemplated leaving, however his father had already seen him and it would have made for a much more awkward conversation later if he just left. Giving his father a respectful bow and waiting for a nod before taking his seat, "Good Morning my King." Alessandro uttered, slipping his fingers into the lemon water bowl sat before him by one of the servants. "I had heard you had business this morning." He shot another longer glance at his sister who blushed deeply and looked away.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei's head come up much like a dogs as he senses the prince heading for the door to his room. Slipping into his boots easily he wipes his fingers on his napkin before wiping his mouth with the back of his hand and making his way to the door. His table lay in disarray, an incident with a falling nut leading him into a little game with the rolling parts of his breakfast while he waited. His hand pauses just above the handle of his door. 'He stopped. I wonder why. . .' Unlike the day before where the prince just breezed past, no doubt expecting Rei to fall in line like he did, this time the boy stops in the hall outside the fae's door. Curious, once the prince moves on, Rei waits for him to be out of earshot before slipping silently into the hall.

Careful to make sure Alessandro stays in sight he stalks far behind the prince, observing him on his way, taking in not only the youth but how the servants around him act. 'I am finding it hard to figure out what to believe here. I am no master of reading positive emotions, but I can recognize when they are present. As the prince, should they all not at the least have respect for him?' Seeing mostly down cast and averted gazes Rei remain befuddled until they reach the dinning hall. The boy is seated by the time his bodyguard reaches the doorway.

One glace at the king once more solidifies his thoughts on how much the man seems to hate his own progeny and leaves Rei to wonder about the king as a possible suspect. Slipping into a servant alcove he manages to stay out of sight and observe for a short time, wanting to assess the situation before entering it. His attention is caught by another thing he's never understood. Watching the boy wash his hands he lets his mind fall back to the few times he's seen the action before. It was almost always among rich families. While most poor families would “go out back” and wash up before a meal, the rich seem to feel the need to be almost constantly with clean hands.

Or so he has observed and surmised. In all his reading, he's never had much of an interest in human customs and their reasoning so etiquette books are not something he's acquainted with. After the tense words from Alessandro, Rei decides that standing aside so far from the boy is not a good idea and pretending as if he'd just walked in the door he slides up the the prince's side with expert grace. He stands just off to the right and a little behind the youth's chair, as he has observed this being a respectful position, and after a light bow to both the king and the princess he lets his gaze wander, mapping the room like a good bodyguard.

[cthulu]

The breakfast meal passes rather quietly, odd small talk is scattered awkwardly through the room, the Prince sat with his head towards his food, clearly in no mood to raise his fathers ire, while his sister cast worried looks to both men and ate silently aside the few times conversation turned to her and her day. She, it seemed, had an easier day of it, she would be practicing her sewing and embroidery, followed by riding practice and a walk around the gardens. No doubt there was more she was not telling them about for Evangeline was no silly girl, she had a clever and quick mind and someone had educated her that way, though the King was happy to turn a blind eye to it as long as she was respectful and Alessandro found it wonderfully entertaining on the rare occasion they had a battle of wits.

Talk inevitably came around to his day, where his father reminded him of his duties to his family and the kingdom with the stern gruffness the head of guards would use on his subordinates. "You will come straight back here after the ceremony in town and get scrubbed and dressed properly to greet the Lady Melissandra, she's traveled a long way to see a noble prince and you shan't let her down. The Steward has planned your time together precisely. You will take her for a walk of the gardens, the roses are especially good this year, if there is a nip in the air you will hand her your coat, you will laugh and joke with her, don't forget how important it is for our relations with her father that you don't mess this up."
"Yes Father." Alessandro uttered into his bowl of fruit and oats, he did so loathe the idea of match making but it was true the Kingdom had been so unstable since the death of his brother, their allies were uncertain, their enemies were bold and so keeping the families united was the best way forward, it was just a shame it had to be through his eventual marriage that the peace would be assured. Melissandra, Clara, Jezabelle and Isla, all wonderful women from the prominent houses and neighboring kingdoms that bordered their lands, all fabled for their beauty and their desire to be a real Princess. No matter which he chose he had to refuse three and he honestly wasn't sure he'd like any of them.

The King was quiet a moment, expecting his son's usual fiery temper to combat his demands and looked almost, concerned, a moment before shaking his head and clocking Rei, "What is he doing here again?"
"He's my guard, he'd be rather poor at doing his job if he couldn't see me...sire."
"Well...as long as he isn't distracting you from your work. If I think for one moment he's more hassle than he's worth he's out on his ear." Alessandro gripped his napkin beneath the table a little tighter and forcefully bit his own lip out of the line of sight of his father to bite back his anger. When the snarky first comments died on his tongue and he could trust himself to speak he took a refreshing glance at Avangeline who offered a soft, grateful smile before going back ot her food and he finally answered, "Of course Father, Rei has already been indispensable to me. He shan't let you down."

The rest of breakfast passed quietly and only once the King had left were the children allowed to stand and leave, Avangeline danced around the table to her brothers side and wrapped her arms about his middle in a tight hug, "That was great, you did so great Alessandro." She chirped in the kind of happy tone one would expect of a sister but had been strangely absent only the night before. Leaning away she took his hands and gave them a squeeze, leaning up and kissing his cheek with a girlish giggle before she and her hand maiden walked out of the room chatting, gossiping and giggling to themselves already. Alessandro was left blinking, only releasing his death grip on the serviette when his sister had left him stunned. "I swear Rei...I will never, no matter how long I live, understand women."

Shaking his head he dropped the cloth aside and looked to his bodyguard, "We'll need to ride into town but today we take the carriage, it looks more official and it carries the things we need to take with us easier, are you going to be okay with that? It's neither Beast or my Lady pulling but a coachmen's horse."

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei listens to the chatter about the princess's day with only half an ear, listening for anything telling, but ultimately disinterested in the actual words themselves. 'She is tense, on edge, while trying to be light. Alessandro is much the same. The king sounds irritated, maybe worried a little. . .Nothing out of the ordinary from what I can tell thus far' His eyes glaze over a bit as he does some deep thinking, however as the subject turns to the prince himself Rei's attention returns to the present and he looks to the king, his gaze unwavering as he takes in everything he can about the man from simply listening. Which, relatively speaking, is quite a lot.

'This is not how family talks to one another. I have observed a lot of families, both human and fae, and no one I have ever seen has snapped out orders like this. He sounds. . .upset? No. . . .Strict, unyielding. . .Harder than my second father' Once more the fae is struck by how unlike himself the prince is when around others and let's his gaze drop to the wigged figure for an instant. However a moment later he looks back up at the king, catching to look on his face when he once more makes it know that he disapproved of his presence greatly. The tenseness that overcomes the prince's body does not go unnoticed however Rei keeps his eyes on the king during the exchange about the assassin now temporary bodyguard.

'How does one prove one's worth around here? Should I show him how good I am at killing? Perhaps save his own life from his own foolishness. . .' At this point he is more channeling Alessandro than expressing his own feelings so with a light exhales he turns his gaze on to the princess. 'Well. . . .she seems happy. . . .' The breakfast comes to an end not too long after that and Rei watches as the girl bounces around the table. He moves carefully out of the way and watches with mild interest how she compliments him on not being himself. 'I wonder if that is why he hides it. . .Because so many expect him to. . . .'

Shrugging internally he adds it to the ever growing list of questions to ask the prince when they are alone. Once she is gone and the young man seems to regain himself a bit Rei steps in a little closer and looks up at the prince with a critical eye. “I have observed that the female of any species acts differently than the male, and while understanding is not a necessity, being able to interact properly with one is crucial.” He moves in a little closer, stepping into the man's personal space while staring at the spot he'd been biting his lip. “I shall ride on the back of the coach, so I can keep an eye on things, and it should be far enough from the animal. . .” Reaching up he gently runs his finger over the mark left from the boy's bite. “You hurt yourself. . .” His voice is soft, notes of fascination and curiosity laced in with the overall confusion in both his tone and eyes. “Why. . .?” He inquires, his fingers moving off to the side as his gaze finally shifts up to look into he prince's eyes.

[cthulu]

Rei's speech about women brings a small smile back to the prince's face and his eyes too, the sheer cultural difference that made Rei seem 'simple' in some ways was rather endearing and the misunderstanding between rhetorical and otherwise was always lightening. Why if there were a few more people like Rei around the Kingdom it might have been a tad more enjoyable here, of course his fluid grace and ability to master things rather quickly was a little grating but the fae child couldn't help the fact he was superior to most humans in that sort of element. He could almost imagine the fluffy haired fae out dancing the Queen and looking rather perplexed as her face soured, or out fence the swords master and ask the Prince why the man turned red and stormed off cursing. No doubt people would get suspicious though if he continued to be so adapt at matters of grace and poise and so it was in Alessandro's best interest to keep the fae from becoming too prominent in the eyes of the court.

While he mulled over his odd thoughts he hadn't quite noticed the boys approach, despite the closeness and the lack of personal space the Prince didn't wholly sense the boy until his hand moved and the Prince involuntarily flinched. He didn't pull away however and allowed the curious fae to touch his lip where the indentation was already beginning to fade despite a slight darkening of the skin in that area. Alessandro was, perhaps, just as curious as Rei, wondering quite what the young man would do if given the chance. Oh surely the servants, had they seen it, would scold and screech for no one was allowed to lay hands on the prince aside the royal family but Rei was Rei. Out of many in the castle aside his sweet sister and the meister there weren't many he felt as close to as the fae man. While the bond with the former two was formed from love and respect Rei and he were bound by a different and perhaps stronger tie, death. Rei had held and still did hold Alessandro's life in his hands, he could end or save it whenever he desired and while the Prince was confident when he first struck the deal with Rei he knew full well should the Assassin decide that the money was better than the books there was nothing Alessandro could -or would for that matter- do to stop him from claiming his bounty.

The fae's hand was surprisingly warm, Alessandro wasn't sure why he was surprised, fae, like humans, had beating hearts and blood in their veins -or so he thought- and so it made sense that they, as mammals too, were warm blooded. Yet he still was surprised, as he was at how soft the fae's finger was against his lip, perhaps it was only such a surprise as fair few ever gave such tender touches and while the fae's was a product of curiosity and not tenderness it was perhaps the most tender touch he'd experienced in a month or more. "I did." The Prince uttered quietly, steadying his breathing and his speech so as not to dislodge the fae's finger. When it slipped off naturally the Prince looked briefly to Rei and gave a sad sort of smile, "I shouldn't have, right? I feared if I didn't I'd say something that would have ruined the breakfast, or the day depending on my fathers mood. I promised to try hard this morning, as a prince I have to watch what I say, especially to the King." Alessandro reached out and laid a hand on a tuft of light blonde hair peeking from under the hat that Rei wore. "I'm fine, don't worry. The mark will disappear soon. Shall we go?"

The prince released the boys hair and with as happy a smile as he could muster he lead the way from the eating quarters and out towards the castle front, his boy came running out with his riding cloak and gloves and the Prince thanked the boy as he was helped on with them and then handed over the scroll meant to read his 'speech' from. No doubt some jumped up words from the steward about how the royals were the town and they ought to be thankful, Alessandro would just wing it as he often did, the speeches were usually long and dull otherwise and honestly a royalist like the steward shouldn't be writing things to boost the ego of the civilians.

When he and Rei were ready he was escorted down the steps and helped into the carriage, it wasn't as fancy as one might expect for a royal, made of dark wood and with the King's sigil on the door, it had only the smallest amount of filigree at the corners and while the seats were soft plush material the small curtains were simple red velvet. The horse in front was a pair of beautiful pure white mares, gentle tempered but easily frightened. It was supposed to be a sign of good luck and purity, like the unicorns in the stories of old and it was for that reason that the white mares were made to pull the coach. They wore blinkers to obscure any frights, the driver was dressed smartly and richly and wore a stern expression and the footman was likewise dressed with a more aloof expression, giving a curious glance to Rei as he climbed onto the back but saying nothing and soon enough they were off at a trotting pace leaving the castle grounds and heading into the city proper.

The Prince sat in the carriage, shoulders back and head up, once again the stern look on his face, one expected of a royal though he clutched the scroll in his lap and silently wished for the speech to be over so he could at least have a few hours before returning to the stiff and annoying countenance he was told to wear in public. Prince's weren't allowed to be seen as gentle or aloof, take his brother for example. Feared and respected, everyone loved or feared him and that's what a Prince needed to be, especially in this critical time, he couldn't show 'weakness' or he'd bring the ruination ofh is family, or so his father and his tutors constantly reminded him.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei notices the man flinch however it doesn't sink in until his hand falls and Alessandro begins speaking. Stepping back swiftly he wonders how he keeps managing to do things that upset the youth. 'I really should remember that he does not like being touched. . .' Tilting his head curiously Rei answers the mans response with a quote, “If a man has not the will to hear the truth, take from him his ears so that he may grow ones able to withstand the truth and carry it to his heart.” The feeling of fingers on his hair is an interesting one and he reminds himself that he must ask about the prince's apparent obsession with toughing his hair. With a nod he follows the prince towards their next destination. It will not be his first time riding outside a carriage, however it will be his first time ridding one when it's okay for him to be seen.

Following not a pace behind he tenses when a young comes running up. Recognizing him however he relaxes. Moments later, as the prince puts on what the manservant had handed him, another youth appears holding a smaller cloak and gloves. Rei stares at them for a long moment, wondering how to turn them down, however after some hard thought he realizes he could get fired for not adhering to the code of conduct for those accompanying the prince on official business. With a nod he takes the gloves and slides them on. They feel very unpleasant on his hands, but he decides he can deal with them.

When it comes to the cloak, emblazoned with the mark of the royal family and in their colors, he simply goes back to staring. Taking this as his cue the youth carefully helps him put it on, jumping each time he meets the assassin's eyes. However once it is on Rei decides it's not that hard and to remember for next time. The boy backs off once he looks presentable and Rei follows the prince out. Once he is sure the prince will be able to get in safely, searching the grounds with a critical eye, he climbs right up the back of the carriage and takes a seat atop the back edge. This earns him a few disapproving glares however as his hand comes to rest on the handle of his blade those around think better of their negative expressions.

The whispers fly, as they always do around him as of late, however with a ride through town to look forward to Rei lets all fall to the back of his mind like white noise. The buzz does not bother him as his eyes and ears tune in for more sinister sights and sounds than a castle grounds full of gossips. As they move off the grounds and on to the streets his head rotates back and forth, eyes watching, ears listening. A few of the voices from the day before jump out at him, however none seem to be all that serious yet. He does however sense once again those eyes much like his own watching him. 'There are assassins in town, of that I have no doubt. With what I was going to be paid for this job I am sure they had a redundancy system in place in case I failed. . .'

As they approach their destination and the coach slows Rei stands up, earning some gasps and drawing a lot of attention. 'I can feel them out there, and this is official business. . .Easy information to get a hold of. . .' When at last the coach pulls to a stop Rei nods and leaps down from the roof. 'None are ready to move yet. I do not feel the intent. If any are planning to take his life during this event, it will be near the end' The footman does his job and as soon as the prince is out of the carriage Rei moves in close. With so many people around the fae needs to speak softly, but still loud enough to be heard. This requires him to be close, and the closeness earns him a few looks.

He ignores them however, looking up at the prince as he speaks. “There are assassins in town. Though none are poised to strike at this moment, I must stay close to you for whatever this is, in case they decide to strike at the end.” His expression is completely serious, his hand resting firmly on his dagger hilt.

[cthulu]

Alessandro, once out the coach wears the look of his families honour as he did the wig, cloak or gloves, he gracefully slides out into the crowd and is soothed some to feel Rei so close beside him already. Alessandro wasn't one for large crowds, they made him nervous at the best of times but this was not open for negotiation, it was his royal duty and as he oft did he hid his insecurities away with his other 'unsightly' feelings to release when that wig came off and he could be himself again. A small wooden stand had been constructed in the center of town, a small set of wooden steps to climb so the crowd could see him and a small row of seat beside the raised area for his 'attendants' in this case the driver and footman. There was already quite the crowd with kids playing sword fighting and pretending their nights and women gossiping about the Prince, too handsome to be the beastly jinx that there were rumours of.

Rei's words seemed to roll off of Alessandro without much outward response but it was no doubt clear to the fae that Alessandro took the fae's words seriously. A small nod of his head to confirm he heard the man, a slight tensing in the muscles of his hands and only briefly as he adjusted to the knowledge someone else may well try and kill him today and a barely perceptible sigh that almost hinted exhausted frustration. Then with the regal smile back on his face he, with shoulders back and head high, walking with the gait he'd been practicing before, smoothly and gracefully made his way to and up the stairs, there was only just enough room for him and Rei on there and while there were a few mutters the Prince turned his fathers stare to the crowd and silenced them quickly. The gaze was like cold steel, unyielding and unquestionable but at his side his hands briefly formed a fist, hidden by the wooden stand.

"Good Morning loyal citizens of Leona!" His tone was smooth but his voice loud enough to carry to the gossiping women in the back who hushed excitedly to listen to the address, a brief cheer went up and Alessandro offered a warm smile although it didn't quite reach his eyes. "We thank you, we know the last few years have been hard, they've been hard for us all, I lost a brother and many of you lost husbands and sons and we are honoured that those brave men fought for this country's freedom." He looked to the faces of women who even now bit back tears of grief and still wore the mourning colours. "We want you all to know, that we have not forgotten their sacrifice, nor will we ever forget the victory they won. Thanks to all of you we won that war and we sent the enemy running!" There was a cheer that rang up from the crowd as the Prince played his part, the notes left by the steward were rarely glanced at mind and the Prince continued the address by only pulling on they points of the snooty speech. "We have all seen dark days but the House of Castalan promises you a new day is dawning. Starting today with the restoration of the taxes." At this there was a heart felt cheered and excited talk from the entire crowd. During the war a lot of people had been taxed hard, almost to the point of losing everything, all in the effort to fund the war, usually the taxes were fair and their restoration meant a great deal to the people, a few women even broke down on each others shoulders at the news. Using his hands to gesture that the crowd grow still and quiet he continued, "Not only this but where I am standing, right now, will be the site of a memorial to our fallen soldiers, so that all who live here may have somewhere to honour their lost and so all those who visit know the courage and loyalty of our people." There was a shocked gasp from one corner which elicited more tears and more cheers in the various people. "We have spent the last month with expert craftsman from our own city to find what best suits the valiant nature of our people. A marble lion shall cast its shadow across the square before the full moon." Some murmurs and happy cheers filtered again from the crowd.

"Lastly my good people of Leona, Our King has understood your need for time to mourn, as we too have needed time to mourn and now that the healing has begun Our King has decided it time that the Prince finds a Princess. Any woman of noble birth may present themselves to our good Steward so they may meet with the King for his approval for the role of future Queen of Albion." The women began gossiping even before the Prince had finished but the men and some of the older women were uttering something beneath their breath. "The Old, the True, the Brave!" The Prince spoke with pride to a chorus of the words returned chanted back to them. Turning to Rei he flashed a brief, honest smile.

[PopeAlessandros]

Rei watches all the small changes in the prince, takeing the nod as a sign as much as the tensing and the sigh. 'He has had a lot of people try to kill him. . .He is also very determined. Most people who hear their life is in danger at least look around as if trying to spot who is going to do it. A bad move, it puts a lot of half-wit assassins on edge and makes them act early and make dirty kills' He reasons that the prince would think all kills “dirty” however in this case it means making their prey suffer. Staying close by the prince's side he moves like water in between bodies, his head swiveling this way and that slowly, looking more like someone in awe than someone assassin hunting.

As soon as they are up on the cramped platform Rei takes a seat on the railing so he can see every point in the square, looking around to the other side of the prince as easy as leaning back in case there is someone in one of the windows. The fae doesn't listen to most of the speech, it having very little to do with anything important beyond maybe yet another motive against the royal family in general, however when he reaches the last part about 'any woman of noble birth' Rei looks up at the prince and begins wondering how in the world he is going to screen that many woman for possible threats. 'I have not killed many women, however I have been hired by quite a few. Any woman turned down becomes a suspect as I have observed they do not take well to being denied such a “prize” as becoming a princess'

As the chant begins and the prince turns to him, a flash of his true self showing through. Rei feels it. Without returning the look his eyes snap to the crowd as many hands fly into the air and a rain of hats tumble about above the crowd's heads. There is a glint of steel, only a dozen paces away and in an instant Rei's blade is free of it's scabbard. A sound rings out as it snaps forward, deflecting the assassin's blade from hitting it's target, instead making it fly off behind the prince. People are already scrambling to get away, more at the sight of Rei, blade drawn, mounting the railing and his cold icy stare looking through them than the actual attack. However one set of eyes stays too long, look s a little bit different, and in that instant Rei recognizes his target.

Not sensing any additional threats the fae launches himself off the dais, his small body flying forward like an eagles talons. The assassin sees him coming and tries to duck between two people, however Rei's aim is true. He lands squarely on the would be assassin's back and in one swift motion slips his blade into the man's back. Despite the suddenness and confusion, Rei's aim is true and within moment the man is dead. Several townspeople stop fleeing to stare at the dead man now sprawled out face down on the ground. Without hesitation Rei removes the rest of his throwing knives and slips a hand into his shirt where most of his kind hide their contracts.

As soon as his finds it he stands, looking at the seal the man foolishly forgot to crush. Not having worked for the family the seal belongs to before he doesn't recognize it, but he's sure the prince will at least have an idea. Leaning down one last time he rips off a piece of the man's tunic and tucks it in a pocket for later use. As he walks back to the prince, wherever he is now, the fae reads the contract and internally rolls his eyes. 'This sounds like a child wrote it. Not unheard of, but it explains why he was such a sub standard assassin. I mean, it is a good tactic for some, but he looked way too angry for someone who is suppose to be horrified. . .' The nearest guards race past him to the body, one trying to stop him to take what he's holding, however Rei sends him off with his patented stare.

Once he is near the prince again he looks up. 'I work for him, not the kingdom. I don't answer to the guards' he muses, handing over the contract. “The person who wrote that is either very young, or simply childish. There is also the option that they are not and wrote that way on purpose, but that is the least likely option. I do not recognize the seal, but I thought you might. I can ride back with you in the carriage if you like, there are no more threats active right now.” He speaks softly so only the prince can hear, his footmen and the others from the palace now more afraid of Rei than ever before. Pulling out the strip of cloth he wipes his blade carefully clean before putting it away, folding up the now bloody cloth and slipping it back into his pocket.