If he hadn't walked away first Tate would have ran to the door practically just to get away for a moments of silence. Smiling, she followed after him "I'd like that." and with that the two set off- leaving her again questioning herself in telling Rian about the secret that bothered her. But again, it was for the best as of now- Rian knew the most important thing and that was her life was in danger. Tate had barely noticed the silence that fell between them because for her the silence was best. Her thoughts were a raging storm, yet being in Rian's presence seemed to make it all..quite down. At least for a while.

It wasn't until that he spoke up that she turned her gaze to him briefly, "That's nothing to be ashamed of. Truthfully, I like the silence sometimes. Between me and you it's peaceful. Besides we got a lifetime to push you out that shell." She mused shrugging. Finally outside again, Tate took in a breath full of air her tense shoulder's seemingly relaxing. Out here it had gotten dark, the stars slowly lighting up the sky with the barely visible moon.

She bumped Rian's shoulder as soon as they were out of eyesight, after having to tell the guards where they were headed so late in the evening. Guess these things were unheard of in the royal Family. "You can relax now. You need too." She murmured into the darkness, watching the path they were taking and memorizing it for future endeavors. If there was any. The thought scared Tate more then she would ever openly admit, having a threat over your life wasn't something that you can just forget about. For her it was a constant reminder that even if she made it through it, finding out whoever sent the threat before they followed through. Because once that crown hit her head, Tate would be an equal to Rian- in all the ways that counted. And knowing Rian and from the the conversations they did have, he was going to need someone to lean on. Shoulder some of the burden to Tate so he could breathe easier. Tate only hoped she didn't fail at both being his wife and Queen.

"R-Rian.. This may seem like an odd question- but..When we are wed do they expect us to..sleep in the same bed?" It was something she had thought about a-lot actually. Not sleeping in the bed with him but if she had a choice in the matter. But then again, Tate should have known he would never force her to do anything which was why she had her own quarters now. But the council could be very convincing. And there were somethings that even Rian couldn't deny having to please them. Seeing the building come up in her view she waited for him to unlock the door, this time staying closer. Mostly because of the threat. Slightly because of other reasons she would not dare say.

Rian would be lying if he had said Tate’s response didn’t put him at ease- the part that it was peaceful anyway. It allowed him to put the thought that he was expected to speak to rest. However, he gave what could have been best described as a wary smile to her last sentence… he wasn’t sure he wanted to leave his shell. Sure it was weighing, and suffocating, and generally unpleasant, but he knew what to expect from it. There was predictability in the person he was molded to be, and it generally just felt safer. Rian didn’t quite know who he was outside of being a royal, but he wasn’t exactly yearning to discover that side to him either. The unknown unsettled him.

Deciding to allow the thought of the odd expressions from the guards after they had continued their walk, Rian wasn’t expecting the bump from Tate. but he gave a light chuckle. Taking her advice, he rolled his shoulders to begin to induce a more relaxed posture, though it came much slower than he had desired. Most likely because he knew whatever state of relaxation he forced himself into wouldn’t last long. He would return right to the palace and everything bothering would come back ten fold to sit on his chest. Besides, he always felt guilty for relaxing; knowing there were people in his kingdom in poverty still struggling to secure shelter and a meal for the night. Rian should be up, attempting to bring as much greater change as possible. But he was only one person, and he could only do so much- someone, somewhere would never be satisfied by what he did, no matter how hard he tried.

The King’s silver gaze swept towards Tate as she began thinking, and a brief chuckle fell from his lips. “Um- well, yes and no-” he began, running another hand through his hair, “It would be ideal if we reflected an instant, harmonious relationship- but in all due honesty, those don’t happen overnight. Besides, my parents didn’t share a space either, and although it is silently frowned upon, there isn’t exactly a rule that enforces the King and Queen to reside in the same chamber. So, after we wed, you are more than free to reside in your own private space. If things change, then we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.” Rian responded, a warmth in his tone that reflected in his small smile.

Rian stepped ahead to be able to locate the rock with the key under it, the King unlocking the door and stepping to the side to allow Tate in before he closed it behind them. Again he navigated the staircase up with Tate, though not reaching for a gauntlet this time. “The falcons prefer to hunt around this time, so if you’re lucky, there will be no large birds to frighten you.” Rian smiled, lightly poking fun at her reaction when she had seen his falcon. Stepping into the space where the birds usually dwelled, sure enough, the avian creatures were elsewhere. The view from the window was like a silent siren that lured Rian to walk to it, stopping once he reached it just to lean out slightly to take in a full view. “Sometimes I swear this place is magical. Maybe its the view, maybe its the peace of mind it offers, or maybe its something more.” Rian uttered as his gaze moved across the tree line illuminated by the faint lights flickering their way into the darker sky. But it was true; if magic existed, Rian believed it did here. Because he was earnestly relaxed here, a calm washing over him. He wondered if he was the only person who found such deep serenity here, but Rian also wasn’t someone to allow anyone to just simply waltz into this tower. Maybe he was selfish for keeping it tucked away for himself, but it was the only place he had where responsibility evaded him.

It settled her nerves. Tate returning a smile when he offered up his own. From what she could tell he was being honest, as he did from day one. Though the thought of her actually getting to the point of sharing a room with Rian, well..that was something she couldn't quite imagine just yet. Yes Rian was attractive, more then she would admit and he would also be her husband in a few days time but still.. they hadn't reached a romantic level yet. But it did have her thinking of the little moments she shared with Spencer, and pondering over weather those winks he sent her way meant more; and the constant conversation that flowed between them weather it was uncomfortable or not.

Shaking off the thoughts, she rolled her eyes at Rian as he poked her about her small fear. She followed him into the room looking around for the birds anyway, but finding them gone. She sighed, moving toward the window but giving Rian his space- as it looked he needed it. "Yeah. Its like entering into another world. One you never wanna leave." She sighed, biting her lip as she watched what little light was outside the window- a fire or two flickering in the distance- the smoke rolling into the darkness unseen.

But even here she couldn't help but think over the past few days, the events that were coming faster then both of them could blink. And soon, she'd be his wife. The thought bothered her more the first day then it did now. Sure she didn't know Rian nor Spencer fully, but both brothers were loyal. To what cause? Tate wasn't sure yet. But she also knew they would protect her, as they have been doing since she arrived- more so Rian then Spencer. As their relationship or whatever it was, was slowly growing to more- friends. Though that could all be in her head. Perhaps they were fooling her- yet at the same time it didn't seem like their nature to do such a thing. Rian had been all but welcoming, Spencer not quite.

Rian’s silence was an ode to his agreement on what Tate had said; she described it perfectly. This was serenity. And not one he would have allowed himself to experience on his own. Rian only treated himself from time to time with intervals of solitude, despite him being a more reserved person to begin with. Perhaps that’s why he was so exhausted all of the time though- hosting a variety of people constantly, knowingly being watched constantly, and forcing himself into social situations and conversations to reflect his involvement in his role, and his Kingdom. People are draining. They suck the life out of him on a daily, but he’s far too empathetic and filled with a strong sense of diligence to just let what is needed of him go unattended to.

Several quiet moments passed before removed his steely gaze from the scene beyond the window to Tate, an expression of apology and mild remorse finding its way onto his face in the form of a frown. “I didn’t mean to clog the view,” he uttered, shuffling a bit to the side and taking a step back to allow her a better vantage. But as he switched his sights back out to the sky, a sigh escaped the young King. “Can I confide in you, Tate?” He asked smally, as if he were afraid to be too open with her… but even he needed to vent every now and then, and he couldn’t discuss what he wanted to with anyone at the palace. “I’ve been feeling terribly guilty ever since my father passed. I don’t think I’ve wanted to admit it to myself, because the reality of the source of my guilt hurts. But from the moment I had been told that he died- I felt relieved.” He said, confidence finding its way back into his tone.

“Don’t get me wrong, I loved my father. So much more than I probably should have, but I did. But with his death, I feel lighter, despite the fact I’ve inherited the throne and everything that has thus far come with it.” Rian paused, still allowing his eyes to travel over each minuscule light in the sky. “Anyway, I’ve just simply felt guilty that I’ve found relief in his death. I want to feel grief, and maybe I do just a little, but the fact that I don’t feel it as much as I should has lately made me feel… inhuman? Maybe shame, maybe something more.” The King finished, though he didn’t expect Tate to respond to him. Being heard was enough- though he was mildly afraid that she would take his lack of empathy towards his father’s death in the wrong way. Being honest came with that risk of being perceived poorly- but he wanted to believe that Tate wouldn’t shun him for feeling the way he did. Rian doubted she felt that way about her own father’s death, so he didn’t expect understanding either. Having been listened to was enough though, it really was.

Tate only shook her head, "You weren't in the way." And even as he moved she stayed where she was. Glancing at him when he spoke again, her brows pinching together. But what he said, surprised her. Not because she felt the same way but because she had thought it was a good relationship between them. Perhaps the pressure he put on Rian drove a wedge. In all honesty Tate was speechless. Fighting both her internal hatred for the man and giving Rian the truth of her father's death. Would it be that bad?

But the answer was clear, he couldn't know. Not now. She needed answers, and she doubted Rian would believe her regardless. It was his father. If someone she had just meet said something like that about her father she'd look at them like they were insane. "Don't beat yourself up over that. If your relationship wasn't that great, then you can easily blame him. He should have been a father first, then a King." She shrugged, "And when the time comes you feel like you need to grieve, I will be beside you- Or if you want space I'll give you that as well."

Another sigh, and Tate was leaning against the wall- watching Rian now. "Your a good person, and from where I'm standing you're going to be an even better King. You might not believe it now, But I believe in you. You chose not to run away from this, it says a lot about who you are on the inside. Those council members don't know you, and I don't quite either. But I' trying to and not just because we are getting married; arranged or not I wanna get to know the real you. The one you show me in here."

Finishing, Tate could feel her cheeks burning- though each word was genuine beyond means. She quickly looked away and back out the window. "Though I can say honestly I'm not ready for tomorrow. Funerals are...exhausting." She laughed quitely.

Rian had begged to differ that he was in the way, though he didn’t openly say that. Whether he was or wasn’t, his modest persona ultimately guided his persona to move. It did mildly surprise Rian that Tate responded, but he found himself grateful that she wasn’t calling his feelings appalling. No- rather she was allowing him to rightly justify his premise. He needed that. His gaze softened as he finally looked at her as she affirmed she would be at his side if he needed her, and that meant much more to him than words could express. Rian couldn’t appear fragile in any way to anyone inside or outside of the palace; he was supposed to be the symbol of strength, and endurance through hardship. Unrealistic expectations held him on a pedestal… but he was still simply human. He felt, and worried, just like everyone else. But he saw that he didn’t have to be the person the Kingdom needed him to be… just Rian as himself was enough.

Though the brunette did blink in surprise as she continued, his brows raising to reflect his brief shock. She was complimenting him by describing aspects of himself he was too humble to acknowledge, she was building him up in ways he was certainly not accustomed to… and she wanted to know him. Rian could not honestly recall a single time he had been spoken to the way Tate had just spoke to him. It faintly flustered the King enough to dust a light color of his cheeks, though he glanced towards the window to conceal that effect, chuckling when she did when the matter of tomorrow came up. After a moment of mentally repeating the words she had just recited to him, Rian’s silver orbs moved back onto Tate. “You’re very good at delivering moving speeches… are you certain you don’t want to speak at the funeral tomorrow?” He joked lightly, before taking a step closer to the woman with a more serious yet genuine expression.

“I appreciate everything you said, Tate, probably more than I could verbally express.” He stopped, his gaze falling to the floor in search of the words that were failing to come to him. “I had imagined for a long time that I would be alone in juggling… all of this. And I had made peace with that, knowing it would be hard, but that I could do it. But within the past few days, my perspective of my own future has altered dramatically. I was informed I would be acquiring a wife- and admittedly, I was skeptical. How was I to know the person I would be expected to trust as an equal would be the right fit -not for me- but for my Kingdom?” Rian’s gaze traveled back up to meet the eyes of Tate again. “You’ve made it impossible to doubt you though, Tate. Between the conversations, and brief moments shared, and just my observations of you- I’ve come to realize a few things. That one, you exceeded my own expectations in what an equal ruler should be. And secondly, you’ve shown me in a very short matter of time that it’s possible for me to not shoulder an entire Kingdom alone. You may not have been born into the world I was, but I think that’s the greatest advantage you have, and by far the greatest thing about you.” Rian finished, half-pleased with own ability to actually find decent words to offer Tate in return to what she had said to him.

“But between the two of us,” Rian chuckled lightly, “tomorrow night I’ll be making another getaway to this tower… you’re welcome to join.” But knowing how long and stressful tomorrow would be, coming back to his sanctuary after surviving the day sounded like a splendid way to end the day… perhaps a bit better if he had tate’s company as well.

Tate forced herself not to laugh or stand rigid when he joked about the funeral her green orbs rolling. "Very funny, But No. I'm not sure I could handle that just yet." She shrugged, "But What I said is true. You have a good soul. Don't let anyone steal that away from you." Tate murmured, listening as he began his own speech to her. She couldn't help but notice him move closer toward her, her stomach flopping nervously. Though Rian seemed nervous himself. "You won't be along in this. Not anymore." She hummed, turning back toward the window briefly before returning her gaze to him.

"As much as I would love to stay out here. We should probably head back, before they come searching for us." She mused, pushing herself off the wall, but still she hadn't moved from where she stood. Awkwardly, she moved toward Rian wrapping her arms around his waist briefly in a hug. "Thank you. If it was anyone else I were marrying- I don't think they would half as considerate as you have been. To me and my family." Tate whispered before pulling away and shuffling towards the door. "As much as I don't want to go back- food does sound quite appetizing." She teased, waiting for Rian before she walked out the door and into the dark hallway before making their way out the building itself.

But even as they made their way back, Tate both stuck closer to Rian's side and overthinking each and every actions she was making tonight. On the castle grounds they were greeted by the guards again who dipped their heads in greeting. Once at the castle doors again, she glanced at Rian a small smile on her face, "Thank you for tonight. It means more to me then you know." She whispered before entering the doors and heading toward the dining hall which wasn't to far from the entrance itself.

In the dining hall, a few maids and such moved around- the guards keeping to their posts and never wavering from the spot until it was time for rotations. Finding her seat, the one that she had chosen on day one she looked for the other Prince. Wondering if he would be joining them tonight, then feeling guilty of even hoping he would. Tate's own feelings would be the death of her if the death threat didn't get to her first. Because just as much as she was hoping to see Rian daily so found herself wishing the same for Spencer. Even if he did get under her skin the way no one else really could- beside her cousins of course. The conflict of emotions only were going to make matter worse which was why Tate needed to get a grip on them- tuck them away. Pushing away those thoughts, she fixed herself a plate of chicken and mashed potatoes- one of her favorite yet simple meals. Making her wonder if one of the boys had told the kitchen to cook something more basic for the girl who wasn't born here- and used to the food she would have at home. Then again, maybe they had seen Tate for themselves and decided that they were ease her life the best way they could; and that was with their simpler dinners. Though, they had other various meats and sides to go along with the meal.

But it also left Tate wondering if all the leftover food went into the garbage or if the lowly class had the option of getting those leftovers. Sure, No one wants to eat them, but when your starving and there is no other option to feed your family well there isn't room to feel embarrassed. Tate had gone a few winters herself wishing to they food on the table- one year the prey so scarce that her Aunt had stolen food from the market and brought it home; crying later when the guilt set in. Again, her thoughts bothered her causing her to shift in her chair and grab the cup on wine already waiting for her. At least she could drink her problems' away here.

A huff of amusement took the place of what would have been a laugh from Rian in response to Tate’s reply about the speech. No, he very much doubted she was one much for public speaking. Not that he doubted that Tate could do it, she didn’t seem like someone it came naturally to. Though as she continued to speak, her words warmed him further. No lesson he was ever taught prepared him to know how to properly receive kindness- he was simply accustomed to giving, no strings attached. Though Rian never had to be taught how to be a compassionate individual, he simply had always been one.

“You’re right, having dinner right about now wouldn’t hurt though either. “Rian gave a half-hearted shrug. But she did have a point. That last thing he needed was for someone to come poking around in his favorite place looking for him… that defeated the purpose of his safe space. The King’s sterling gaze lingered on Tate though, watching her curiously as she awkwardly moved towards him. Though he certainly was not prepared for what followed Tate reaching him. Was it okay to return the hug, did she expect that from him? Was it weird to hug back? Rian was frozen stiff in confliction- but he did smile to himself at what she had whispered.

Happy to see he wasn’t the only one with food on his mind, Rian chuckled before following Tate. But the hug was gnawing at the recess of his mind; when was the last time he had even hugged a human being? Oh- he knew exactly when… but he’d rather not relive that moment. As they walked back though, Rian wasn’t as concerned with Tate being closer to him. In truth he didn’t know if any kind of romance would ever spark between them, but he could see himself at the very least being a close friend to Tate. The King was aware of previous arranged marriages working in a similar manner, never really going beyond a strong friendship, and only being intimate when the pressures to have an heir began to fall on them.

After having entered the dining hall, Rian found himself sitting in his own inherited spot at the table. In truth, Rian hardly paid much mind to what was brought out for his meals- if he liked it, he usually had seconds. And if he didn’t? He was far too concerned with not hurting anyone’s feelings, so he would eat at least one serving, and refrain from mentioning his dislike. Most people have mistaken his kindness and restraint as being someone who could be easily pushed over, though. But that’s where people like his advisor go wrong. Rian is many things, but a meager pushover is certainly not one of them. He just found no sense in being consistently abrasive.

Within moments though the doors threw open in a rather violent manner, earning all of the attention to shift onto the near frantically fuming prince- who paused after entering the dining hall to switch his stormier gaze between Rian and Tate. “Where have you been?” He asked pointedly with a heat to his tone, more so directing that question to Tate.

“With me.” Rian stated calmly, not bothering to pay into reacting to his brother’s theatrics,

A disbelieving smile that reflected very little humor made its way to Spencer’s lips as he shook his head faintly, slowly striding towards the table before speaking. “Brother… could you please explain to me the point of tasking me with watching Tate… if you’re going to allow her to disappear with you without at least having someone inform me? Or would it kill you to talk to me yourself?” Where Spencer’s tone had begun as quieter and strained, it began to unravel in a louder burning rage. “Do you know how long I’ve been running around the palace aimlessly looking for her? I thought she- you know what? It doesn’t matter.” Spencer refused to look back in Tate’s direction. The prince only claiming a seat the furthest away from anyone and downing a chalice of wine in an inhumanely fast amount of time.

“You’re right, I should have made sure you knew, but I was also keeping her location discreet,” Rian countered calmly, his gaze neutrally falling onto his brother as the prince glared in return. “From as many people as possible, which had just so happened to be even from you. We can’t be too careful with our trust.”

“Even from me?” Spencer asked, a dry laugh following. “How rich, coming from someone like you. Really, Rian, when you know what it’s like to be stabbed in the back by someone you practically worshiped, then you can talk to me about being careful with trust. Until then, piss off.” Spencer hissed venomously, collectively coaxing a flicker of what just might have been anger in Rian’s eyes before it vanished just as quickly. Spencer noticed the reaction he was able to get out of his brother though, and deciding to use Tate’s audience as a pawn to further test Rian’s patience, Spencer flicked his gaze to the woman. “Are you moved by Rian’s nice guy act yet, Tate? It’s pretty convincing, I’ll give my brother that. But give it time.” Spencer mused, waving for a server to refill his chalice.

“Are you done?” For perhaps the first time, Rian’s tone had dropped rather low, the tension on his jaw signaling a warning for this not to continue. But did Rian expect Spencer to refrain from being a dramatic attention seeker? No, no he did not.

Tate nearly choked when the Prince stormed in, his rage obvious in his words and actions- yet she felt guilty all the same when he stated his reasons as to why. "I'm sorry Spencer. I was in the library- Rian came looking for me and well- I wanted a walk. Fresh air again." She sighed, though quickly shut her mouth when he began to further elaborate along with Rian. Their argument was brewing and Tate could fee the tension rising. Again, She shifted in her seat when Rian turned his gaze again to her. Her eyebrows pulling together, "I'm not sure what you mean by that Spencer. Me and your brother are to be married, whatever act he is putting on real or not- I do not care." She merely hissed back, face red as she pushed back her plate.

Throwing a look toward Rian, then Spencer again- "I am sorry if my disappearance had you frazzled. That wasn't our intentions. But act like a child, and that threat won't just he a threat- but a reality." She snapped, watching as the maid filled his glass- causing Tate to stand and pluck the drink right from his hands- "That is enough. I am fine. I am here, Stop being such a child." She growled- looking toward the maids, "He doesn't get anymore." She ordered before storming out the room herself. She had enough of the theatrics, and Spencer with his attitude. Finding her room empty, she slammed the door behind her- leaning against the wall to catch her breath from the yelling match.

Sure her family had gotten into spats, but this felt different. Both boys meant something to her, not quite sure what just yet but maybe a friendship. After all, that is a foundation for trusting someone with your life quite literally. But Tate was stressed enough, Spencer knew that as well as Rian and yet..both seemed hell bent on butting heads at every corner. How were they going to find the person out for Tate if they couldn't stop arguing or to agree on something. With a headache forming, Tate removed the clothing she had on and dressed into her night wear this time choosing the silk set- and pulling her hair up and away from her face.

(Thank you <3)

Spencer had only briefly cast his gaze to Tate as she touched on why she had been gone, but the focus of his rage was on his brother. As it typically was. However, he was not shy when it came to delivering a fiery stare to the woman as she had responded about Rian’s act. In all honesty, he wasn’t completely sure what vexed him more; the fact she didn’t care -like everyone else-, or the way she threw the fact of the marriage at him. It took a mighty level of restraint to not impulsively lash out verbally at Tate without thinking. But he wanted to scream horrible things at her. Things that were more meant for Rian but that would be hissed at her in the heat of the moment from the fit of his rage.

“No? It wasn’t your intention? So you purposely decided that it would be in your best interest to say nothing? No, that’s giving you too much credit- I’d care to bet that it didn’t even cross your mind to attempt to say anything to me.” He stated fiercely in response to Tate, glancing to Rian to decipher the expression that seemed to only assure Spencer that he wasn’t an element neither had thought of before they took off. What were they doing? Spencer didn’t even want to ask, why should he waste his care?

But what really got under Spencer’s skin was the way Tate plucked his own drink from his hands, and the way she spoke to him. He could have sworn he heard a quiet sound of amusement coming from Rian, but Spencer’s stare that was capable of leveling and decimating entire cities stayed directly glued to the woman until she was out of his line of sight.

“Happy now?” Rian asked coolly, just beginning to actually eat the plate he had been slowly fixing for himself amid the arguing. In truth, he was deeply entertained at watching someone force Spencer into a furious silence. Not that he felt Tate had deserved to be the person to scold the prince, but he was nonetheless amused… just as much as he was concerned as Spencer continued to remain silent. A quiet prince in the face of scolding, in Rian’s experience, was never a thing to cherish for long.

~

“Eat.” King Aillard demanded from his seat at the dinner table, with Rian sitting opposite to Spencer. The youngest prince, defiantly, stayed silent- refusing to touch his food for yet another night. “For God’s sake!” The King boomed, a fist pounding the table- the action getting Rian to jump slightly, and yet, Spencer didn't even blink; but rather continued to stare down at the table. “You selfish little brat, it sickens me to see you turn this tragedy into just your own- we all lost her, but is that even what you’re sulking about for? Or is it the fact that no one is here to feed into your narcissism the way she did.” The King spoke in a raised, condescending tone. Still, Spencer sat in silence, simply not reacting to any stimuli around him. The Queen had died just yesterday morning, the only words he had spoken yesterday being where they could find her body through strangled sobs. The prince spent the night crying, not daring to sleep. He cried until there were no tears left to fall, and even then, he cried just a little bit more.

“Waste of time,” the King uttered with a huff of rage as he abruptly stood and began to leave the room, “just like I told your mother.” But the King paused as he passed behind the prince, the silence of his son only seeming to fuel an anger unbefitting for a father to demonstrate to his kin. “If you have-” The King had begun, no doubt warming up to further berate his son, but not before the prince uttered three quiet words that failed to reach the King’s ears. “If you have something to say then speak up.” The King loudly demanded, though stepped back in a near stumble- startled by the way the prince threw his chair back as he stood up to square up to his father.

“I hate you!” Spencer screamed, grabbing the plate that had been placed in front of him and throwing it at the ground- the glass shattering at his father’s feet. “And so did she!” He yelled with a ferociously wild glint in his eyes, his impulsivity driving him to shove his father back. “I’m not the worst thing to have ever happened to her- you were.” He stated through a wavering voice, having only repeated the words his father had spoken to him hours ago before he stormed away.

~

The prince said nothing, and maybe because he knew it was safest for everything if he didn’t. He wanted to destroy everything in sight, he wanted to burn this horrible place to the ground, and just maybe he toyed with the thought of plunging his sword into Rian’s chest- but these violent internal manifestations were only the effect of the toll that was being taken from the single thought that he would be in attendance of his father’s funeral tomorrow. Perhaps it was a fourteen-year-olds rage that was being released from its cage again, or maybe it was simply that Spencer was too emotionally fragile to process and respond to intense emotions the way other people could.

Not bothering to look back at Rian or respond, Spencer got up from the table and proceeded to exit the threshold of the dining hall. His mind had gone briefly empty, and yet his feet were carrying him along with a purpose. It wasn’t until he realized what hall he began walking down that he paused, heaving a breath of frustration as he stared down Tate’s door. He was just as angry as he was relieved that nothing had happened to her in the time he thought she was missing. The weight of failure and fear hardly sat well with the blond… so is this all what really sparked him? One couldn’t be sure with such a complicated entity though. Not even Spencer knew.