[ The moment Malleus' hand touches his shoulder, the warmth of it seeking through, there's that frightening realization that this may indeed, be reality. Dreams don't feel like this- the dream Silver awakened him from didn't feel like this, even with the pain and horror they experienced at Malleus' own hands.


He keeps his head bowed, forcing himself to keep himself from shaking. This is Malleus Draconia, his king— the one who he'll stand beside and who he will protect until his end days. The one he's dreamed of serving since he was little...

Why did it have to turn out like this?

He takes a few deep breaths to calm himself, bringing his arm to his chest in a gesture of respect. ]

Y-you are most gracious, Young Master, to consider one as unworthy as myself after such an embarrassing display!


[ Silver.. he has to play along until he can get to Silver. Make certain he hasn't succumbed to what Malleus was doing to them- and to awaken him so they can save Malleus from his own doing.

It's strange enough that Malleus doesn't seem to be reacting to what he said. Surely... surely he'd have responded with dismissal? And yet?

Ah... he's so confused. There was nothing in Grandfather and Lord Lilia's training that would prepare him for something like this. He swallows inwardly and stands upright at attention. Nose red and eyes red-rimmed, lashes still wet.

He shouldn't ask, he shouldn't, but he must. ]

My Liege, how long has Silver been with you?