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S O M N U S The one who inevitably joins him is one that Somnus does not recognize. Darker than unrefined coal and far, far taller than the dunalino himself, the stranger was an outwardly imposing sight with his broad build and fearsome horns. Well, perhaps they would have been a tad more fearsome if not adorned with a beautifully arranged crown of flora that rested atop his poll. He approached with remarkable elegance despite his profound size, however, and Somnus’ keen emerald eyes watch him closely as the unknown man settles at his side. Not too close, he notes, but he does not feel wary. The stranger’s words, deep and rough as gravel, seem to reverberate within the Dawn King’s ears, in his head. Whether it was simply the deep baritone of his natural voice, or perhaps rough from disuse, Somnus did not know. It wasn’t his place to know. ’Hiding from the late night fun?’ The question, however, was innocent enough, and after taking a thoughtful sip of his sweet wine the golden smiled amicably and offered a lazy shrug, an elegant roll of the shoulder. “Perhaps,” he stated, the lilt of his accent seeming to express his exhaustion from the busy, busy day, “More like taking a moment of respite, if I’m being honest. It has been quite a long day indeed.” Another sip, another sigh. It was the perfect way to wind down, especially as the summer heat began to wane with the oncoming night. Alba was none the wiser from her perch between his shoulders, still napping peacefully. The crowds may be winding down, the foals tuckered out to eventually be taken to bed by their mothers and fathers, but there was a healthy number of individuals who seemed to thrive as the night came alive. Sun or moon, their festival-going spirit would not be disturbed, but Somnus did not mind. Let them enjoy themselves. Novus needed more lighthearted fun. Verdant eyes slid sidelong towards his unknown compatriot then, turning away from the mingling faces. The taller man did not strike familiarity within the Dawn King, but still he repeated the man’s own inquiry, never one to intend to appear rude or dismissive. “And you? Exhausted by the masses? Or are you simply taking a moment of respite as well?” The ale was impossible to miss, and Somnus could not help but eye it knowingly. Perhaps he wasn’t the only one stressed from the day? Then, as he took another long drink from his wooden cup, letting the taste of the sweet wine linger upon his tongue, savoring and surveying, he spoke after swallowing. “I don’t believe that we’ve crossed paths before. Are you new here?” xx |
@Thorvald
