The change was smooth, subtle enough that anyone not paying attention might not notice. But Po had been studying his face, studying the lines found there with interest. He watched the king’s jaw harden, his eyes gray over if only slightly. It took him by surprise—the king had been so informal just a moment ago, this new, steely facade no longer seemed to fit him.
Ipomoea made himself appear busy while the youth delivered his message, studying the pattern the ivy made upon the wall and following a single strand all the way down to the base. It was more difficult than he had expected; in several areas the runner disappeared, weaving over and underneath other vines, so that Po had to guess where it exited from. Nonetheless, it provided an excellent distraction: he almost didn’t notice when the page ran off.
He couldn’t deny the sting of disappoint sinking in his heart, reluctant to lose his company. Had he been allowed, he could have sat all day discussing plants and vines and flowers with the king—though he couldn’t deny that Kasil’s other duties would be of far more importance.
But at least he could have a few more minutes of interaction. “It would be my honor.” With a dip of his head and a smile, he followed, his heart already lifting once more with the excitement of adventure, ready to explore the rest of the Dawn Court.
@Kasil
short n sweet to finish it up! <3
!!!
