Eating slowly, Zephyra savored the food now, the flavors continuing to help keep her calm and focus on them. She had known it would be good to eat, and now that she was actually beginning to fill her stomach, she knew for a fact that she had been correct. There was the slight unrest in her abdomen from the hard crying but nothing concerning. The biggest thing she found was the way chewing pulled at her cheek and caused it to ache. But it was manageable and that was the point.

When Solomon began his reply, the woman briefly turned her head to glance his way before returning her focus to her food. Perhaps it was for the better, with part of her hair falling across the side of her face to hide the very soft smile that twitched at her lips. Not because she was pleased with his response but there was a small amount of amusement but more of sorrow. A sorrow that she had failed, and the tiniest bit of amusement that he assumed it was sloppy, and therefore weak and laughable.

It had been a well thought out plan really and she had gotten a head start. Her tracks had been covered well but she had made one fatal flaw... she had passed through a town and dared stop to buy a change of clothes with a few coins she had taken. It had been to try and make herself less conspicuous and to blend in. But she had not been careful enough and it gave them just enough time to track her down and get the direction she went. They had caught her while bartering for a horse... mere moments from freedom. Mere moments... it was bad timing and the mistake of getting the clothes first, which had been a bad judgement call in hopes to not be able to be tracked later.

As for her choice to be kind... the way he put it did paint it as a submissive and weak move. And some of it was, she could not deny that. Zephyra at times had favored those she knew could protect her, but a few times she had offered a gentle hand even when she knew it would be repaid with unkindness. Why? Because they were still human, and she had refused to let them destroy her heart out of fear. It was one of the things her father had loved about her, and that was her gentle loving nature. Now it was more masked and hidden beneath layers of caution, especially in the castle, but she would still offer good will if she could. Though she knew Solomon’s views would never it see it that way, and that was okay.

Her gaze fluttered back in his direction when he mentioned having been captured. Zephyra had not expected such a thing and for a moment, light hazel eyes alighted on the scar that ran up his neck and under his jaw. And that thing he called weakness, her heart, reached out to him. Their experiences were two totally different cases though. He had been captured for information... she had been captured for the mere joy of using her. There was nothing for her stand for but her own life. But that did not mean she wanted to imagine the pain inflicted on the prince. It was hard enough when she had been caught again and chained, the heavy metal biting into her wrists while she was abused and paraded in the most humiliating of ways. She now had a feeling the plan from the beginning was to give her to the princes, and that alone had saved her.

Zeph overlooked his words about killing his captors as she returned to her food, now only nibbling lightly. Continuing to listen, she couldn't help wonder if it was heart that made one question, or the fighting side of apathy that was the true culprit. Of course, that really was philosophical curiosity. Was it heart or apathy? By definition one would assume apathy could not be, but why not? If there was kindness, wouldn’t it be apathy that was the one that was trying to get the attention back? But it was a pointless thought really, just one she would have toyed with a debated for fun. In the end it didn’t matter, did it?

“Your contributions have been great,” she concurred softly, laying the fork down and shifting so she was tightly and comfortably nestled in the blanket and resting back in the corner of the couch. Her eyes followed the flames as her tone was genuine. Yes, he had done great things for his empire... and he would be remembered for it, both the good and the bad. “I did hear of your valor when I was with the soldiers and they only had good things to say of your skill.”

Silence fell again as she looked for something to say though she was running out of words. There was no point in continuing the conversation because honestly, she had little left to add to it. Maybe because she was tired, the events catching up with her again. “Your empire should be proud to have a general like you. Many are unaware how much of the weight of an empire actually falls to your shoulders...” While the observation was aimed at him, it really was said more as a general observation, one she had learned from her father. Everyone looked to the king and crown prince, but they would be nothing without their supporting soldiers.

Her eyes began to flutter closed as she released a breath. Her hand instinctively moved to her cheek to check it, resulting in a sot wince as she withdrew her fingers. She made no noise but did start to worry it would bruise, or was already bruised. Though maybe, that would be a blessing in disguise and perhaps the others would prefer that she look ‘pretty’ again before using her. Probably not, but it was a comforting thought anyway.

“Again, I cannot thank you enough,” Zephyra murmured, settled down in the position she would most likely fall asleep in. “I apologize for the trouble I have caused you and it will not happen again. Any way I can help you I will more than happily do.”

A brow cocked as she complimented him, something that was definitely unexpected. Well, perhaps it wasn’t a compliment but it was a rather respectful acknowledgment of his skill. The very skill that had been used to take her homeland and had influenced her capture. Granted, Solomon had not been the one to put her in chains, but without him brutalizing the land she inhabited with his merciless tactics she would have never come to the palace in the first place. It was certainly something he found unusual, but then again, he found many things about the woman unusual.

Per usual, Solomon listened as she shared instead of giving an immediate response. No, the man pondered over her words as she spoke them, eyeing the couch she haunted curiously. It was clear to him the woman was beginning to calm to the point where she could find rest, given as she had laid down. That would mean it was about time for Solomon to start working again and busy himself with his stack of papers that Heinrey had so kindly recollected for him. He wasn’t looking forward to it and their conversation was truly like some form of procrastination for the man, given as he wasn’t really a fan of paperwork. On the bright side though, he had been getting more sleep.

“I am proud of what I have done, but I am simply one general amid the generations that have come before me and will come in the future. My name will be forgotten in a few decades at most.” Solomon responded, finally taking some food to eat himself and washing it down with the liquor beside him. He did have to admit he was rather hungry and now that everything had calmed he was feeling more comfortable. “Although, I suppose it is nice to hear I have the support of my fellow soldiers. It is rather humbling and I place great value upon loyalty.”

The comment had been an off-handed one, though it did bring Solomon a sliver of satisfaction. Just a sliver. How could one not feel some form of content when they heard they were spoken highly of. “Perhaps I am considered the best the military has to offer now, but there will be people that surpass me. As long as I know I did right by my home I will be satisfied. I do not need statues erected in my honor as some men do.” He was the type that was egotistical, yet modest in a way that was rather annoying when it came to receiving compliments.

“Besides, my father works much harder than I do. I believe he deserves all the credit.” Happy with the few bites of food he took, Solomon hauled the papers and his drink over to his desk and settled down to begin to work on them. The words about his father had been completely honest, as he truly believed his father was responsible for his success. No amount of pride and ego could make Solomon take any credit away from his father, even if the man had never set foot on the battlefield. It was yet another one of the prince’s many quirks that added to what seemed like a minimalistic personality.

He glanced again in her direction as she thanked him, though she could not see him shake his head as he wrote on the parchments. “I stated before that I am not the type for needless torture. His physical violence was far too extreme for the situation. He has never been good with his temper, though we all have our flaws,” Solomon rebuked, not demeaning his brother or complimenting him. The man was simply neutral, as he always seemed. Their conversation had been one of the first times he had shared his views on something other than war, even if he had made a relation to it.

“All I require you to do right now is occupy yourself, Zephyra, in whatever form that may take for you.” He told her, though he had already sensed she was going to take the time to rest. Not that she wouldn’t have helped him if he had asked, but he was content working alone. “I am sure my siblings will be curious about what happened in the hall, so it would behoove you to take this time to recuperate in order to satisfy their curiosities. We can speak more of the story you are to tell in the morning, but for now, I have work to focus on.” Solomon concluded, throwing one last look her way before deciding to leave her alone.

Zephyra listened to his voice as he spoke, taking in his words. She noted, perhaps for the first conscious time, that everything he said always seemed to be neutral in some form or another. He admitted he was one of the best, yet quickly added that there would be better. Then went on to credit his father. And in regard to Heinrey, he admitted his brother had gone too far before making it just a flaw that was of no real matter. Or so it seemed. It was his pattern of speech.

When he mentioned what story to tell his brothers in the morning, his voice had become warped as she started to drift off. It was deeper and farther away and she just barely acknowledged what he was saying. But at least she did, knowing it was wise. She fought sleep for just a little longer to make sure there was nothing else, a lingering unconscious fear that a similar situation to the one with Heinrey would reoccur. But her exhaustion won over and the knowledge that this was natural between them, the young woman falling asleep curled up in the corner of the couch.

It couldn’t be quite night yet as it was midday when she had run to Solomon for help. But her body was exhausted and took the rest as soon as it was given to her. And she slept deeply. Well as deeply as she could these days, but this room always brought with it the extra security she could find nowhere else. As was her custom, she twitched at times in her sleep, at times pulling herself into a tighter ball or relaxing some.

However, the woman woke sometime in the night, light hazel eyes blinking open to stare at the soft glow cast in the dark room by the fire. Zephyra was still tired, there was no way around that, but the dredges of sleep were gone. It was slowly and cautiously that she sat up, rubbing a hand over her eyes gingerly to be wary of her cheek. Blinking, she glanced around in the low-light, noticing the curled-up lump on Solomon’s bed, a clear indicator that the man had gone to sleep. For a moment, she simply watched him, noting what a defensive position he laid in. Most men she had known slept rather openly, stretched out wide. It fascinated her in the purest and most curious of ways.

Not that her thoughts lingered there, averting them from the man’s sleeping position almost instantly. Despite the fact that there was no harm in them, she felt terrible for having watched him in his rest. It was the jaded view set upon her by the life she had been thrown in, as if the simple curiosity was somehow defiling Solomon who wanted nothing to do with her occupation. Not that her occupation even made her curious, just simple curiosity itself. And yet she could not help feeling she was breaking his trust.

For a few minutes she tried to simply stare back at the fire, going through her mind the events of the day once more through the calmer lenses of her somewhat rested mind. It had been a foolish move to fling herself at Solomon, and she knew it. And still he had shown her kindness. It struck her so suddenly that she couldn’t resist glancing in his direction. Zephyra had counted everything he had done as kindness but after the conversation they had had, she realized that the very thing he called weakness he had been doing. Did he even realize it? He had every right to punish her for the way she flung herself to him and instead he had protected her and fed her. What excuse could he give there? There was no underlying reason such as to make his brothers think he was sleeping with her. He just... had.

It filled her with a deeper respect. But it also brought with it a fear. What if he realized and saw it kindness? Would he then turn his back on her? Zeph needed him. In this new place, the crazy life thrown to her, she needed to the peace and security only Solomon could offer. She had always wanted to repay him, but this new thought brought with it an urgency. Not panic, just a sense that it was better to prove she was worth something to him sooner than later. And even that tore at her, feeling suddenly as though she was using him for his kindness, which she was. She meant no malice in it, and if things had been different, she would have still offered her help. But it made her feel little better when he asked for nothing in return.

She found herself looking around the room once more, though avoiding the bed with her gaze. What it did land on was his desk, still having papers waiting to be done. The woman knew how to fill them out, and had already grown accustomed to the exact format of his having helped a few times already, at times the prince adding progressively harder ones.

Zephyra rose quietly and made her way over to the desk, very carefully lighting the candle and making sure the small amount of extra light would not disturb the sleeping hulk. Once certain, she sat down and took the first piece. It was a dangerous play, there was no doubt there. But she knew her skills, knew what she was and wasn’t capable of. And he already had an idea too. If she could complete most, if not all for him, it may earn her a chance to continue to stay close and prove she was more than a toy. She could be an asset. And if she was an asset, she would be guarded even more carefully. Hopefully.

So the woman set to work, meticulously reading through and being sure to not make the slightest mistake. She labored carefully and yet quickly, having the feel for these forms and the previous knowledge of what her father had taught her. The military lingo she knew well, the information needed easy enough to get on the crowded table, and everything was being done rather smoothly. Zephyra was focused and concise, so much so that she was barely aware of how many papers she was getting through. The time passed quickly as she leaned across the desk, hair over her shoulders as light finally began to creep into the room.

And it was then that she grabbed the last paper, pulling it closer as she began to finally fill it out. There was a sense of pride in her as she got to the bottom, glancing at the large finished stack. Hours of work, and she had enjoyed every moment of being useful and something other than a play-thing. All she could hope was that Solomon felt the same way. That the outcome was worth the risk...

Solomon had gone to bed rather late that night, finishing as many papers as he possibly could before retiring to bed. Briefly, his eyes flickered over to Zephyra, who never seemed to sleep too soundly, shifting in her sleep rather often. It was something he had grown used to but nevertheless found odd. Though his gaze didn’t stray for long because he needed to bathe and rest. So, the man vanished into his bathroom and did his nightly routine before emerging in his nightclothes, folding the dirty ones and setting them on a small table by the door to be picked up by a maid tomorrow, as he always did.

It was only then he returned to his bed, damp hair clinging to his forehead as he curled beneath his covers. Silky and cool, as they always were. Solomon didn’t find comfort in many things, but for some unknown reason, the covers of his bed were one of them. It was hard to believe that a scarred man of war would find his sheets soothing, but they were one of the only consistent things about his childhood. He may have never received much attention nor much love as a child, but when the days were particularly bad or whenever the boy had been sad, he always found the soft texture and familiar smell a comfort.

He awoke later that morning, the man having clearly exhausted himself with everything that had happened the day previous. When he finally stirred he was groggy, golden eyes squinting against the light that reflected off of a weapon case and into his eyes. For several moments he laid there, not wanting to leave the little cocoon of warmth his bed offered him. But as always, Solomon was duty-driven and knew plenty of work awaited him, so he decided it was time to rise. The man finally sat up in his bed and stretched, to which several popping noises ensued. Solomon wasn’t old, he just didn’t carry his stress well and it resulted in a tense body.

He got to his feet and adjusted his nightclothes to appear more dignified, well as dignified as a man in his pajamas could be, and looked around for his guest, who had decided to sit at his desk. He cocked a brow and padded over, fingers running through his tousled hair. The man's form towered as he leaned over her, though Solomon wasn’t as intimidating as he normally was, his eyes glassy from sleep and a shadow of stubble over his jaw, not to mention his hair was as messy as short hair could get. He confusedly at the papers for a moment, taking longer to process than usual. It was clear he wasn’t really a morning person.

With a soft sigh, a hand reached out towards the stack she had created, recognizing the now familiar handwriting. He rifled through it for a few moments, somewhat and unsure of how to feel about it, though it did seem as if she had done a decent job. Solomon cleared his throat. “It appears you have managed to surprise me,” He spoke as he looked through the papers, “and I suppose it should be considered a pleasant one,” Solomon commented. He certainly hadn’t expected her to do his work for him and rather quickly too.

“This all looks to be satisfactory, though I’ll have to look through it more thoroughly to be sure.” Solomon set the few papers he held back down on the top of the stack, crossing his arms over his chest, “Though in the future, I would prefer you ask before commandeering my paperwork. Some things I do want to go over myself.” It wasn’t a complaint by any means, simply a request for future reference. He walked away from her and entered the bathroom, the man cleaning himself up and making himself look more presentable, before re-emerging to fetch his clothes for the day.

With another quick disappearance and reappearance, the man was pretty much ready, though his soldier's coat was slung over his arm rather than over his sleeveless top. “It seems your family’s military background served you well…” He commented offhandedly as he picked up last night's scarcely touched meal to throw away in a bin near the door. It was clear he didn’t eat much of it, no doubt because he had been working. “Do you want me to order you something to eat this morning, or would you rather wait?” He questioned, eyes sweeping in her direction.

Hearing the sheet rustles, Zephyra sent a small glance toward the bed in time to see the prince stir and begin to sit up. She averted her hazel eyes, looking back down at the last finished paper and quietly moving it to the finished stack. Her hand rested against the wood as she waited, hearing the man get to his feet, though she was watching her slender fingers run across the grains. The woman heard every soft footstep as he neared, hoping that her kindness would be accepted.

When he was close enough to loom over her, the woman tilted her head back some, angling it to the side to get a glimpse of his face in the hopes to see his reaction. She searched his face as he focused on the stack, rifling among the papers to inspect what she had done. She couldn’t read him, not that she ever really could, though she had hoped this morning she might get a glimpse into his feelings before he reacted. But even in his morning disarray, he seemed to keep his thoughts and feelings close to his chest.

There was no anger in his voice when the prince did finally speak, still going through the work she had done. That within itself was relieving and her gaze fell back to the desk. “I understand m’lord,” Zephyra finally acknowledged after he asked that she seek his approval before doing his paperwork again. It was an understandable request and one that she would follow from that point forward. But her risk had a purpose, to be sure and repay him for what he had done and prove that she could actually be worth more than a simple presence in his room. Time would tell if this would help work her more into his favor.

As he left to get ready, the woman stood taking the moment to stretch her arms out and cherish the small amount of privacy. Quietly, she made her way back to the couch where she sat down in her usual spot, pulling her legs as she usually did when in his room. A defensive posture she could only afford around Solomon, and one that she preferred for reasons of her work. It really was useless in the grand scheme of things but it made her feel more comfortable.

It was in that small interim of silence, the prince getting prepared for his day, that Zephyra returned her thoughts to what had happened the day before. It had struck a note of high fear in her towards Heinrey, one she knew she would have to fight every time she saw him. Even the still fresh memory shook her some, the woman holding a terror of loud voices. But she rallied herself quickly, determined not to flounder here and now. She would not make the same mistake and the young prince would receive careful attentions when he wished it. And in that time, she would see how far she could get by becoming useful to Solomon.

The woman looked in his direction when he emerged, carrying his coat in his arm, freshened up. “Thank you. I took an interest in my father’s work,” she admitted honestly with a small dip of her head. It was remarkable how much she had bounced back from the panicked terror that had seized her the day before. But it was necessary to survive and she had a goal for once. As long as she had a goal, she had been able to survive easier. With the soldiers, her goal had been to make a bond with the kindest and most respectful of them in the hope it could serve her later. When she had been handed to the princes, there was no goal but to make it through each day, and all she had was her list of things that she could consider good.

It was different now. The terror had spurned her mind to look to take action. In the end, she could not ever hope to escape the castle except by death itself, but she could make the attempt to change her use. Her key was Solomon and her goal was to make herself as instrumental to him as possible, in the hope that he would steal her away more often to do work for him. Though there was no malice and true want to use him. It was just something that could be advantageous to them both.

At the mention of food, she paused before nodding, “It would be appreciated m’lord.” Her head tilted slightly, “What am I to tell the others? They will no doubt ask.” The prince had mentioned the night before creating a story to tell. But that reminded her of one other thing, causing her to hesitate for a moment. “M’lord, you never asked what happened,” she finally spoke, cautious in her words. It wasn’t that she wanted to explain, but if Heinrey got a chance to say what she had done, there was a chance he would make the crime worse to justify his reaction.

Zeph reached for her hair, pulling it back and away from her face, shifting her gaze to the table in front of her. She did not go to an immediate explanation to defend herself but waited for the question, if it was to even come. “I am sorry for this inconvenience, I know you have things to attend,” she added aware that he had other things to do, though just a fraction more time on his hands now that she had done some of his paperwork for him.

Solomon nodded as she responded to his offer of food, as the ordering process had become a bit of a routine, even if the day previous had been the longest they had stayed together at once. With the little rope pulled he waited by the door silently, deciding to answer her question once the servant was sent away. The last thing they needed was someone overhearing their conversation. To do so could put them at risk of their little facade shattering, which would no doubt be detrimental to them both in the long run.

He ordered the food from the servant, per usual, closing the door as she left and he remained with his company once more. It was then he pondered her earlier words and padded towards the sitting area, leaning against the back of the couch on the side opposite to hers. “No, I did never ask what happened,” Solomon finally broke his silence, words slow as he put his usual thought into them, “Because I am aware, that whatever the case, you didn’t do anything that deserved some sort of beating. I do not find you ignorant enough to do so, nor do you have enough gall to challenge Heinrey.”

He propped an elbow up and rested his chin in his hand, watching the dying fire with unreadable eyes. “He’s always had a temper and never took kindly to any “disobedience” from those he thought were below him. I saw it often with my younger siblings, namely my youngest sisters.” Solomon explained, knowing all too well of his brother’s anger issues. It had been the subject of many of their quarrels over the years. “So I am assuming, given where you stand in terms of hierarchy with him, it didn’t take much to cause an outburst with him. A story is not required to understand the gist of what occurred.”

Solomon would have been lying if he didn’t admit he had some faint curiosity around what had happened between them, but he knew it was a childish urge more than anything. He was perfectly fine with how things were and was satisfied knowing that Heinrey hadn’t had managed to brutalize her unnecessarily. “As for this being an inconvenience, I was headed back to my room to work on papers anyway. I’ll be fine.” Solomon may not have wanted to spend the rest of his day completely cooped up in his room, but once he had made the decision to take her from his brother, he couldn’t have really left her alone.

“As for what you will tell my brothers, you’ll explain that you were heavily reprimanded for what happened with Heinrey. Perhaps something about how I didn’t want my trophy damaged. I don’t care if you make me sound hypocritical, just satisfy their curiosities while keeping the story straight. They will no doubt talk about it amongst themselves today.” Solomon instructed, walking away from her briefly at the sound of a knock on the door, greeting the servant curtly and taking the tray they offered him. As always, he set it in front of her, before walking away to put their usual space between them.

But this time, instead of going to his desk, he returned to lean against the back of the couch. “I’ll talk to Josef about what happened yesterday, he will be more than displeased. I reckon Heinrey will not come near you for a few days, nor will he try and beat you in such a manner unjustified again. Heinrey will not be happy, but there isn’t anything he can do about it now after that attempt.” Josef was bound to be furious that his prized possession was beaten. Some of it would be because he wasn’t inherently cruel, but most of it would be because she was his favorite toy.

"That being said, I am sure Josef will come to see or summon you sometime today to hear your end of it all. Acting pathetic may be in your favor when it comes to him, but not overdo it if you go that route. He may be quick to switch sides if you annoy him." Solomon knew that dealing with his brothers could be tricky and unfortunately, Zephyra was now thrust into the center of the little hierarchy the brothers had formed amongst themselves. That was never a good idea nor did it reward one with a very fulfilling experience. "So really, how today goes is up to how well of an actor you prove to be."

Nothing was said to her for a small time as Solomon waited for the servant and gave his order. Zeph acknowledged it in her head as a wise move to avoid someone accidently overhearing the conversation, something that could cause issues for both of them. So she waited patiently before he finally walked over, her head lifting so she could follow his movements, somewhat surprised that he chose to actually come over to her to talk, considering he often just went to his desk and kept a good distance from her. Though he seemed to be getting more comfortable around her.

For some reason, the woman found herself rather relieved when he explained his reasoning behind not asking. For what reason, she was unsure but she was. It seemed Heinrey had long since made for himself a rather incrementing name with his temper, which was serving her well now. And she could only hope that meant it would be easier to gain sympathy from the others. Not that she was looking for them to care, because she was not so naïve as to think they would care because she was human, but it was because she was their item. And no one wanted their things broken. But if she could gain their sympathy, she could also hopefully gain them wanting to be sure their brother hadn’t caused more damage and treat her more gently for a few days.

As for what she was to tell them if asked, well it was simple enough by Solomon’s instructions. It was easy for her to conjure up a story that was both simple and convincing. She lied to the princes constantly, did she not? Except Solomon... she had never lied to the man, perhaps because he never asked her to like the others expected, searching for compliments.

Her thoughts were paused for a moment as the food was brought over, the woman realizing that for once, she was actually hungry enough to perhaps finish most of it. Maybe because she had gotten some sleep and a small sense of security, along with the calming work of filling out papers had actually spurned her to want to eat more than usual. Not that she would stuff her face by any means, just picking up the fork and taking a bite while listening to what else Solomon had to say.

At the mention of his brother and how well she could act, Zephyra dared a glance towards his face, a soft smile moving across her features as she finished her bite. “I think I can play the part rather well m’lord,” she offered, and for the first time, something real sparked in her eyes. A sign of intelligence, a ghost of the personality and character of the woman before she had been robbed of her life. “I have learned much about your brothers,” she explained, turning away again to focus on her food. “It is important that I know how to read most men, though I fear some such as your Prince Heinrey are quite impossible. There are too many things going on his head, far too fast and ever liable to sway that makes him dangerous to me. One thing that happened before he makes time for me can change the way he thinks... and a simple thought or realization can sway it back again.”

These were things that Solomon surely already knew, but the woman felt no fear in telling him what she had learned... Heinrey could never be figured out. He seemed to be a brooder. And then there were the twins. “Princes Ascalo and Cyrus are perhaps the easiest to please.” She paused to eat some food before continuing though she was ready to stop talking at a moments notice if Solomon required it. She simply missed being able to converse, and this was something she was sure they both knew anyway and was safe enough. And part of it was proving that Heinrey really was the only exception when it came ro her being able to handle the brothers.

“They seek entertainment since they find themselves bored more often than not. Therefore, anything that gives them something to focus on works. They are much in the same, though I have found they like being treated as if they are unique from the other.” There was a soft shrug as if that last bit was common knowledge, which she couldn’t see why it wouldn’t be. The twins were very much alike in mannerisms and taste, even having a strong brotherly bond that one would expect them to have. But they also liked being seen individually, which was why she had strived, and succeeded in finding a different approach to each of them, unique only to one.

And that brought them to Josef, the whole reason she had moved to explain how well she knew them. “Josef appreciates grace as far as I have been able to tell. Grace and dignity. He likes to see what he owns as something glamorous and fitting his position. You please his eye and ear, and you please him. He likes a softer tongue and hidden compliments. I believe the most will be won if some of the grace seems worn and softer words shaken. “

Zephyra looked at Solomon again, her chin lifting just a fraction though it was an unconscious move. “If Josef believes his prized silver to be tarnished, it will pierce him because some of the glamour is gone. But he will also be aware that tarnishing can be easily reversed with simple care. As long as I appear as such and not broken, I believe I will be able to handle the situation well.” Her attention shifted back to the food which she finally focused on enough to eat her fill, for once almost clearing the plate.

“If I may offer a suggestion...” This time the caution was more evident as she was actually asking something of the prince. “Perhaps it would be best if you allowed me to stay here.” Her gaze moved around the room for a second before coming back to him and falling to the ground. “If Josef were to come and find me here, it would have a greater impact than if I was to be found in my room.” There was a very evident hesitation that came after that. She had an idea, a good one that would wrap the story up nicely but it almost embarrassed her to ask because this was Solomon... “It would seem most genuine if I was in your robe...”

And Zeph blushed, turning away. She hated it. She hated asking because the last thing she wanted was to defile something of his. But it would look more real if Josef were to find her quietly sitting in the bed, wrapped in Solomon’s robe alone and looking a little withdrawn. It would go to prove that Solomon was being intimate and make the prince a more reliable source. It just felt... wrong.

(If you need anything changed with the personalities, let me know ^^)

Solomon cocked a brow at her confidence when it came to acting skills, but said nothing and was only slightly shocked to see the hint of optimism about it, even if the woman had proved to be positive previously. What did stun him was the way she began to talk about Heinrey, who was just as unpredictable to her as he was to the rest of the brothers. He had always been angry, but Solomon had always assumed it came from his bitterness of living in the shadows of his elder siblings. The twins had gotten over it long before, satisfied with their own friendship. Heinrey had always held a grudge.

But he was interested in what she thought of brothers, simply curious of what outside eyes saw of the Imona children, even if it was restricted to the princes'. Although for her, as expected, the observations were all means for survival. Even so, he was still intrigued to see the other point of view because, in all honesty, his stay at the castle was proving to be both a boring and mundane visit. Solomon’s only means of adding “spice” to the rather monotonous schedule was training his soldiers. The general was not the type who needed constant entertainment, but even the constant strain of repetition was becoming boring to him.

That being said, you would never see him complain about his occupation or work, as he would consider such actions to be selfish and rude, but it didn’t mean Solomon wasn’t tired of the repetitive routine. So the man found some entertainment as she told him about his brothers, whom he hadn't seen much of for years. It had been a long time since they had all been fast friends and since then they had all become rather despondent to each other and prone to arguments. If someone had seen them years ago, they wouldn’t have understood how a tight-knit family unit had become… that.

“Well, it seems as if you are aware of how things work around here,” Solomon commented, fingers reaching up to absentmindedly push back his hair. “But I suppose it is more of a necessity than anything, even if it is surprising you have managed to peg their personalities in a short time period.” At that point, she probably knew his brothers better than he did, only because she spent more time with them than Solomon did. But that was the only comment he made before he let her finish speaking, chin still propped up in his hand.

But at the shift of her tone, his eyes narrowed infinitesimally, not missing the introduction of a cautious air into the conversation. That usually came when she feared she would offend him and with it brought him some suspicion. She wanted to remain in his room… That wasn’t that bad, even if the idea of his brother finding her in there unsettled him. It made the story that they slept together often seem more real and Solomon often forgot that the reason she was in his room was for a fake affair. It was just routine to him.

He didn’t typically think too much about the lies they told, but whenever he did think about the deeper meaning to the facades they put out it flustered him greatly. “You may wait here.” Solomon managed, running an embarrassed hand over his face, “Just keep yourself occupied once I leave.” He was long past the point of suspecting her of breaking his things and he highly even doubted she would snoop. “I agree that it may… affect him more.” He agreed hesitantly, some of his usual confidence seeping away, though scarcely noticeable.

Although, at the mention of his robe, Solomon stiffened. He had given it to her last night to wear completely absentminded, which was rather shocking to him now. He had forgotten, but never would he have allowed anything else to go near the thing, let alone wear it. But now this request… this had him visibly tense. She would be in nothing but his robe and it was certainly something he wasn’t comfortable with. He had gotten used to her presence, the occasional help with paperwork and conversation, and the how she would commandeer a blanket to sleep.

But he would never get used to the intimacy of what she was proposing, even if it was all a lie in the end. Solomon opened his mouth to decline, to say that wouldn’t be necessary, but he stopped because he knew that when it came to this kind of thing, she knew what she was doing more than he did. “Fine,” The answer came out in a huff, causing him to clear his throat, “You may wear it.” It was clear he wasn’t happy about the decision, but he was willing to give in, which was probably one of the most shocking choices he had made so far.

“Just don’t snag it and be careful. That robe is one of my possessions that I would not be happy to see abused.” Solomon’s voice held a little threat to it, something that came with his protectiveness over the silk article. It was something that even accompanied him when he was deployed, even if he didn’t tend to wear it away from home. “And if you happen to leave my room in it, I want it back as soon as possible. There are not many things in this room I care much about, but that robe just happens to be one of the things I actually enjoy.”

It was an unfortunate part of her life, having to constantly be aware of the status the brothers believed to be between her and Solomon. Zephyra knew the prince could get away with just moving on each day and letting his brothers just believe that he had slept with her, and that was because the brunt of the lie rested on her shoulders. At this point, the brothers assumed there was at least some kind of special intimacy between the two considering Solomon’s systematic use of calling for her and keeping her all night, sometimes evenings to later mornings.

The huffed out agreement affirmed her fear that this was something he was not overly okay with. It was expected and she truly felt bad and embarrassed to ask it of him, but she truly believed it would offer to aid them in the long run. And her as well... to wear Solomon’s robe would prove that he actually took a liking to her, offering her some extra protection especially considering none of the other brothers had allowed any such thing.

“I will be sure to treat it with the utmost delicacy,” Zeph nodded, “I promise it will be cared for and left for you before you return.” The woman knew it probably brought him little encouragement, but she was offering what she could. If nothing else, she hoped meeting with Josef would prove to get a good light reflected on both herself the war prince who had taken her side. And maybe then it would be worth the trouble she had caused, though part of her had a feeling as long as his robe was treated properly, he would continue their routine.

The female said nothing else, nothing more to say as Solomon had work to get to and Josef to inform of the situation. She waited until he was gone to rise and carefully take the robe in her arms and move to the bathroom. It was there that she quickly and silently changed out of her clothes, pulling the oversized robe on and very carefully tying it around her waist. It was then that she looked into the mirror, gazing over her face to see if there was really any damage. Nothing very telling or concerning except the very soft pinkish hue that was a bit deeper on the cheek that Heinrey had been hitting.

It wasn’t concerning or super noticeable unless she was being inspected very carefully. At least in the moment. With a soft sigh, she reached up to the cheek, wincing as she rubbed her palm in circles over the area a couple times, irritated and inflaming the skin so it was a brighter red and much more noticeable. A few times of that on and off would offer a much more convincing story, and Solomon had wanted acting. So she planned on going all out with it, despite the slight discomfort.

Her hair had never been done, but instead of making it look worse, she actually ran her hand through the chestnut strands a few times. Not enough to make it look groomed, but enough to seem as though someone had been stroking her hair. It was well thought out, probably more than Solomon would ever actually realize, the amount of thought and work that actually went into everything she did. And this time she had to make everything seem as natural and perfect as possible, to cement the believed relationship between her and Solomon, as well as the extent of damage caused by Heinrey.

Sure of herself now, Zeph collected her clothes and made her way into the open room again, laying the clothes out across the couch as if there had actually been a careful deliberation in everything. Finally, the woman moved over to the large bed, easing herself to sit on the edge and look around. She entertained herself this way for a while, trying to think of anything that could be changed. She did get up at one point to refold the extra blanket and put it off to the side before returning to her spot, continuing the occasional irritating of her cheek to make sure it stayed red.

She listened and waited carefully for Josef, going through her mind exactly what she should versus should not say, reminding herself of Solomon’s instructions. She had been heavily reprimanded. But, she still was sure to make sure she was then carefully treated. And so when she heard the steps near the door and saw the handle turn, she took on the act she needed.

As the door opened, she was sitting quietly, more so than usual, hands demurely clasped together in her lap on the sild fabric of the robe. Her head was hung slightly, hair spilling over her shoulders and covering part of her face. She only lifted it up a little as if to affirm she knew he was entering. “M’lord...” the greeting was said softly, submissive and slightly withdrawn. Her head was tilted slightly away as if to try and hide the red cheek, clear proof of the abuse she had been shown by Heinrey.

It was a stark contrast to her usual behavior around Josef. Zephyra was always dignified around Josef, usually greeting him with a graceful smile and a dip of her head. When she did speak, it was gentle, but her voice was clear and strong in its softness, perhaps partially submissive but more in the tone of a companion looking to please. And her hair was almost always in some state, whether a partially decorated braid or bun. Or if it was down, having a scooping braid coming around the sides of her head and under. The persona of a lover really.

And that was not the person she was showing Josef right not. All that was left was to watch the man carefully and make miniscule adjustments if necessary to please him.

Josef

“Vivianna, what’s my schedule this week?”

A scoff sounded from behind the prince and he could already sense his sister flipping her hair like she always did when she was annoyed. “I am not your assistant, Josef, figure it out yourself,” She pointed out, tugging on the end of his ponytail as she approached. “Heavens, sometimes I wonder why I even spend my days here with you. Such a royal pain you have proved to be.” Vivianna huffed, propping herself up on her sibling's desk, to which she received an eye-roll from her sibling. If anything, she stayed with her brother because although he could be painfully arrogant, he tended to treat her as if she were an equal.

“Mmm,” Josef began with a hum, “You spend your days here because the crimson beast would reduce you to cinders if he caught you admiring his men again.” That comment received a swat to his shoulder, to which he only chuckled, “You’re only mad because I’m right, Viv.” Another scoff came from his sister, “Now, will you please tell me what I have going on this week? I know you already have it written down, so you might as well not have your hard work go to waste.” He propped his chin up in a hand, looking up into the identical brown eyes of his younger sister.

But as she reached for the journal that held his desired information, there was a knock at the door. “I’m not getting that,” Vivianna told him immediately, receiving a loud sigh in return as Josef got up to answer the door. Fingers undid his ponytail absentmindedly so he could play with a new style, something he often did. Josef reached for the knob and twisted it, eyes widening as he found a brother was beyond the door and it was Solomon nonetheless. What on earth had brought him over? Nobody ever saw him outside of their lunches or dinners.

“Sol?” Josef questioned, staring blankly at the man who filled up the giant doorway with ease. It was clear he was uneasy. His eyes were fiercer than usual. “Why are you here? Shouldn’t you be down at the barracks today?” He tilted his head expectantly and stepped aside, allowing his sibling to come in.

Solomon rarely visited their siblings for a chat, so Josef assumed there was a reason. And after a few moments of quiet thought, he remembered. The man had been in an altercation with Heinrey about Zephyra. He hadn’t heard much about it, but he knew the gist of what occurred. From Heinrey’s point of view, anyway. The younger prince hadn’t wanted to talk much about it, but apparently, he had been in the midst of disciplining the woman when Solomon interfered. The prince had argued his side but had done so with caution. No one wanted Solomon hunting them down.

Solomon leaned against the door as it was closed, silent for an awkward amount of time per usual. “I’m here to talk about yesterday's incident with the whore.” He started, crossing his arms over his chest, “Heinrey was in his right to give some sort of consequence due to her disobedience, but I have no doubt if I had not stepped in, she would have needed medical attention.” Was he completely sure of that? No, Heinrey may have stopped the physical abuse and occupied himself with something else, but it was a worthy method of convincing them, as both Josef and Vivianna were rather stunned.

Josef sighed, moving to sit on the chest at the edge of his bed which was identical to Solomon’s. “And what do you suggest I do about this?” He asked his brother, playing with the hair tie in his fingers, “I wasn’t there Sol, how am I supposed to scold him? Surely whatever lashing you gave him was enough, no? He had his tail between his legs during the entirety of dinner.” It wasn’t that Josef wasn’t irritated with his brother for his excessive force, he was just unsure on how to go about it. Heinrey was an adult and it was harder to scold someone who was grown.

“Forgive me,” It was Vivianna who spoke up, “I am aware I wasn’t supposed to be involved when it came to her, but you know Heinrey has a track record, Josef. He was banned from The Menagerie for nearly killing one of the girls and I’d prefer not to have a dead body in the room across from mine. Not to mention Ryia was scared out of her mind. She heard everything. I shouldn’t be the one having to comfort our sister because our brother can’t control his fists.” She pointed out, eyes narrowing, “If you choose to let this fly, you can be the one who spends the night telling our sister he won’t be coming for her next.”

With a subtle cue from his sister, who had long ago learned how to win with their brother, Solomon spoke again. “Are you really going to just allow Henirey to abuse her to the point where she can no longer be used because she’s so broken? Or are you going to remind him who makes the rules in this family? He won’t listen to me Josef. Heinrey only answers to the leader.” The younger prince had never been the type to stroke egos, but with Josef, sometimes a little bit could go a long way, considering the siblings, namely the boys, were obsessed with their little hierarchy.

And with that, their brother’s hesitance cracked. It was the lethal combination of a broken belonging, a hurting sibling, and the idea of his authority being undermined by his brother that turned his irritation into something more akin to anger. Josef pinched the bridge of his nose with a huff, getting back to his feet. “Let me go talk to her before I go find Heinrey.” Josef decided, “I’m assuming she’s back in her own quarters?” He asked Solomon, tying up his hair in his usual half-up-half-down fashion.

Solomon shook his head. “No, I left her in my quarters because I assumed you would want to speak with her before the twins took her for the day as they usually do. That and she was rather shaken after yesterday's events. She’s rather unharmed on the outside, but Heinrey certainly struck a chord.” He responded, making his final point in order to create the best story possible. Solomon needed to be on the right side of the argument lest he ends up being scolded himself.

“I’ll head there now and send her to her quarters once we’re done talking. Vivianna, you are free to wait here or leave.” Josef concluded, leaving his room with Solomon behind him. The two parted ways as his younger brother went off to work. With a breath, the prince entered, scarcely able to hear her greeting though he did acknowledge it. “Greetings…” He trailed somewhat cautiously, only because he was unaware of her condition. She seemed she was taking it rather well, given what had happened, but then again, he wasn’t sure what was going on inside her head.

Josef sat down beside her, briefly noticing how she donned Solomon’s intricate robe, though his focus was more on her than the clothes she wore at that moment. Fingers reached out to tuck her hair behind her ear as he searched for her eyes. He had caught sight of some reddening on her cheek before he situated himself next to her. The man tilted her head so he could see her cheek, sighing at the red mark, no doubt his brother’s work. “Oh doll…” He sighed, ”You should know by now not to anger Heinrey,” He commented softly, looking at the irritated skin, though he did not touch it.

“He is not the type that appreciates mistakes,” One could consider it Josef’s way of scolding, but his words didn’t hold malice. He wasn’t the type for additional punishment where it was not due. “Nor does he tolerate them, as I’m afraid he was never one for mercy. I suppose he inherited that from our father.” Josef’s hand fell back into his lap, though his eyes still searched for hers, “But it seems Sol was there just in the nick of time. You’re lucky my brother seems fond of you or else he might not have cared as he typically doesn’t.” Josef pointed out. Saving others had never been in Solomon’s nature.

Josef leaned back, palms flat behind him on the plush mattress. “I’ll talk to Heinrey about his aggression and chances are you won’t see him for a few days, but I can make no promises. Although, the threat of his abuse should lessen. I’m afraid I don’t tolerate unnecessary violence.” Josef planned on telling the prince that if he beat her again, he would lose his privilege of being able to have her whenever he pleased. He did not need her in the infirmary nor did he need a conflict between siblings about her. If their father god involved it would all end horribly. “But first, I need you to tell me what happened. Solomon didn’t give many details.”