SOMNUS
Since his ascendancy, Somnus found himself to be terribly busy. Matters of his Court needed to be overseen and addressed, strategy meetings were to be had with Po to discuss Delumine and its relation with their neighbors, and the new Dawn King had even attended a few patrols with Ulric to ensure that their borders were secure. There was always something that needed done, some matter of business to attend to. It was hard work, but it was satisfying. The dunalino had no regrets in accepting the role of Sovereign, at least not yet.
In his rare times of peace and relaxation, he would either shut himself in the Citadel’s grand library to read or peruse the hydrangeas in the courtyard, admiring the myriad of blossoms and losing himself in their scents. It was nice. Relaxing, even. More often than not, when their schedules allowed, Po would accompany him. They were rarely apart anymore; Sovereign and Regent, working dutifully in tandem for the benefit of their beloved Court.
Today, however, Somnus was alone. Alba rest upon his croup, talons digging into the dunalino’s flesh for purchase. He had long since grown used to the discomfort of the barn owl’s sharp grip. Together they wandered the courtyard, stopping to smell the blooming flowers or admire a particularly fetching floral arrangement. The sunlight glinted off of the Dawn King’s golden hide, wings spread to enjoy the warmth of the mid-day sun. It was quiet. Peaceful. The perfect way to spend an afternoon.
It didn’t last.
The sound of approaching hooves caused an ear to tip back as Somnus was admiring a collection of peony flowers, Alba’s large, judgemental black eyes twisting around to focus on the intruder at the same time. The barn owl gave a little hiss, popping her beak in the newcomer’s direction. Somnus, in turn, lifted his head with poise and elegance and turned to face the individual who had joined them. The man was one that he did not recognize.
Keen emerald eyes peered at the fellow, taking in his markings, his horns, the milky hue of his eyes. He stood a much taller height than Somnus himself, but the Dawn King was not daunted. This was his domain, after all. Brow arched, the dunalino smiled. It was a small expression, subtle but welcoming. The tension between Delumine’s neighbors put him on edge, but this spotted fellow did not seem to come with ill-intent in mind.
“Hello,” Somnus called pleasantly in the lilt of his accent, straightening his posture with a roll of his shoulders, his movements poised and calculated with one familiar with the workings of politics and courtly appearances, “A fine day for a stroll, is it not?”
@Orion <3
