Ruina would happily proclaim to anyone who listened that while she has always lived a pretty good life, she has only truly started to enjoy life when her and Enzo finally confessed their feelings. It was a story in the makings and one Ruina was excited to see where it would go. She loved being around Enzo and while they would no doubt face many hardships, the werewolf had strong faith that their relationship would stand strong against anything. Especially things like a revengeful werefox who was nothing but jealous and crazy. Speaking of which, the werewolf needed to remember to tell Revalor, or her mother, to watch out for anything. Not that it would happen, but better safe then sorry.

Aelrindel had always been a good king, over the years he has become better, and in their own ways his citizens love him. However, Ruina never could figure out what drew Aelrindel and Ashera together. What had her mother seen in her father? Sure Aelrindel and Ruina had been close when they were young, but that was only because Ruina had been following the path her father wanted. The second Ruina wanted to do something for herself, Aelrindel was not happy. So what had drawn Ashera to fall in love with Aelrindel? Had the King truly been a charming young man who had earned the love of his wife? Or was the love faked? The kingdom was well aware there was no more love between their King and Queen, but, their children wondered often what made them fall in love with each other.

The Queen was very different from the King. She was sweet and kind, and knew how to rule with a steady hand. She was called Queen Mother because the Kingdom loved her so, and they considered her, well the mother of the kingdom. Ashera had been born in Truhan, and when she had met Aelrindel, apparently it had been instant love. Or at least they'd gotten incredibly close. That was as far as the story ever went for anyone who dared asked. The Queen remained her motherly self, while the King grew colder and more power hungry. Ruina was a lot like her mother in terms of personality. The werewolf did have her dad's temper, however, she managed to control that well. She acted a lot more like her mother then her father, and worked everyday to act less and less like the Beast of Truhan.

Ruina had helped Ayduin with overseeing the dungeons, which was his job, as many of the people within the dungeons were put in there by the werewolf or her warriors. Ayduin enjoyed Ruina's help and that was actually one of the things that brought them closer. They didn't do good cop, bad cop. They were firm and fierce and if you pissed them off, well, your life in the dungeon was about to become literal hell. Ayduin, in the end, made all the final decisions. However, even when Ruina did not join Ayduin in the dungeons, the prince was often asking his younger sister for advice and help. In terms of doing things, Ayduin did not have many royal duties. As the middle child, he had very little too do. Especially since his sister had taken over the army. Not that Ayduin minded, that gave him more time to relax. And he was always happy to help his siblings or mother whenever they needed it.

Thaola was only being so polite and host-like because of how much she respected the Queen. Had it been the King that had asked, or even one of the Prince's, Thaola would have been her usual mischievous self. However, the amount of respect and love that Thaola held for Ashera kept the werelioness in line and pretty damn proper in the Queen's presence. Thaola did not want to disappoint the Queen. No, Thaola would not be like this the whole time. Thaola would fall back into rhythm pretty quick and be back to her normal self. The Queen didn't mind, in fact, she often helped the kids escape punishment or detection. As long as what they were doing didn't seriously harm, maim, or kill anyone and it wasn't a threat to the kingdom. Who said a Queen can't have a little fun and cause a little mischief?

In terms of length, that was not the longest argument the two have ever had. However, on terms of hurtful, well... The words that had been exchanged had not been nice in any way. Ruina found herself missing Enzo more and more. Honestly, she found herself missing school as well. At least she didn't have to deal with her father and worry about remaining in a princess role. She could just be completely herself and have fun and hang out with Enzo and her friends. A part of her wished Enzo was beside her, but she knew that it would have only made her father even angrier. No doubt Aelrindel would have had a few words to say to the Prince of Ritha as well. Which would have prompted a few more angry words from his daughter.

Ruina manages to return Enzo's smile, it wasn't completely real and it didn't reach her eyes, but it said enough. It said she was happy to see him, even if she was in a pissed off mood. Her family, was only making it worse (unintentionally), but staring and wondering and worrying. However, they always did. Even if they weren't big fans of the king themselves, they never did like the hostility between father and daughter. Ruina was gravitating towards Enzo, and she wasn't really even noticing. She just felt better and happier in his presence. Ashera sighs, had Ruina told the king not to come? Or had Aelrindel chosen not to? Regardless, Ashera would talk to her husband. See what was going on, and the Queen would also find a moment to talk to her daughter. She did not want to ruin Ruina and her friend's visit, however, this was no time for hostility in the family.

Ruina didn't tell her mother, because she knew she'd end up in a conversation with the queen later anyways. That one would not be as bad, but no doubt, Ruina would get the lecture about needing to fix the bond between her and Aelrindel. It usually always happened. Would it be different this time? "I will." Ashera simply flashes a smile, though she thinks to herself, what an odd boy. Of course, Ashera thought most everyone was odd in their own way. But something about Ikaris was even more odd. The wereeagle had remained incredibly quiet so far, and yet, those eyes seemed to be speaking for him. Had the boy been forbidden to speak by his friends in fear the wereeagle insult one of the royals?

When Ruina felt Enzo's hand slip into her's, she smiles slightly, squeezing his hand gently. Grateful for his support. Ayduin's eyes flicker to the joint hands, and if not for Ruina's sour mood, the prince would have called them out. Teasing them about it. Then Revalor would have joined in. The Queen would have cracked a smile but probably would have either scolded the boys or remained silent. And yet, knowing who Ruina had just conversated with, the boys remain quiet. While Ashera's worried gaze follows the group out. Did Ruina expect her father to just deal with her relationship with the crown prince? Aelrindel would not relent so easily, and allow himself to just drift further away. He did not like other royalty, especially if he did not set up the arrangement.

"So what are we checking out first? I swear to the gods though if you take me to that scary ass hall with portraits you guys were talking about in art class, then I will be livid. Anywhere but the hall of paintings." Now that Thaola was out of the presence of the Queen, she was back to her normal self. The werelioness rolls her eyes at Ikaris,"We'll go to the barracks. Some of the men should be in there. If not, they will be training in the courtyard." Who commanded the army when Ruina was at school? Revalor. The Crown Prince of Truhan knew just as much about commanding an army and war strategy as his sister. Though he would admit Ruina was better at it, much better at it.

"Portraits aren't scary, they just... exist." If Ruina's mind was in the conversation, and not in the clouds, she would agree. But at the moment she was just walking along, hand in Enzo's, which was kind of her guide. Thaola shoots a glance at the distracted werewolf, before turning her attention on Ikaris. "Can you believe this guy?" Thaola shrugs,"They are creepy." But Ikaris was making it a little over dramatic, the portraits weren't that creepy.

For certain Enzo can attest to a rather great life, and for the most part, he’s living one he assumed other people would love to have. It hasn’t always been easy, but what truly is? And yet, with Ruina, everything seemed just a fraction simpler for Enzo. Love is absolute, he's learning, and it’s unyielding, as well as accompanied by a warmth he can’t imagine living without. Sure it would eventually come with its own difficulties, hardships will eventually be endured, but Enzo truly believed without a shred of doubt that even the darkest times ahead wouldn’t be so dark as long as Ruina’s at his side. It’s funny as the wereleopard reflects that, amid a sea of diaries with bouts of wisdom available to him, not a single one he’s read has ever mentioned a love like the one he feels. So he and Ruina perhaps really are the start of a generation that will have true love to hold onto.

While maybe at one time Enzo had been curious to hear what led to his parents being drawn to each other, it's been a very long time since he’s actually cared. They married for love; good for them. They stay together for power; whatever, also good for them. They can grow old and bitter together when Enzo kicks them to a property on the outskirts in Ritha when he takes the throne, and their palace. That’s how their love story will end, and Enzo hopes it's everything short of a happy ending. Perhaps its a bit cruel, but people can only wear out his patience and understanding so much before he really channels that inner “I don’t give a fuck” energy.

Crime doesn’t quite run rampant in Ritha -void various kingdom slums- so the dungeons hardly ever hold many people for Enzo to have the pleasure of dealing with. As much as he may enjoy toying with prisoners, Enzo is just. Not a soul enters a cell without the Crown Prince himself overseeing their charges, being notified and updated on court proceedings by letter, and more often than not its Enzo that will send a written statement the courts most often rule in favor of. Not everyone should be judged for their mistakes, so rather Enzo likes to take a step back when possible and look at the factors beforehand present in people’s lives. He does not condone citizens taking the law into their own hands, but he understands fathers getting vengeance on the men that defile their daughters, the mothers that steal to turn a profit for their children so they have food to eat on for the night, and old beggars who throw themselves pitifully -and annoyingly- at the feet of the wealthy to try and gain pity. It’s the people who thoughtlessly parade around and boast about criminal acts, who eventually get caught, that Enzo is merciless with. But even then, not a soul in Ritha can say the Crown Prince is not a fair Prince. Ikaris just tags along to the dungeons to play because it makes him feel important, so who is Enzo to take that from his friend?

It’s the respect for mothers -and motherly figures- Ikaris may never understand. And so he may never see eye to eye with anyone on the subject. Experience and circumstance dictate his firm views though, so it's not as if he just got up one day and decided he hates most women -especially mothers-. Moms aren’t cool, they’ll throw you under the bus when given the chance. Moms aren’t on your side, they’ll sell you out if it better serves them. Moms don’t love you, you’re a burden that they reap taxation benefits off of until you reach a certain age, and then they’re gone. And by now, certainly by far the wereeagle doesn’t care about disappointing others. Why should he, when people expect him to disappoint anyway? The only person who could actually hurt him when it comes to disappointment is Enzo, which is the only reason Ikaris was even abiding by holding his tongue.

While Enzo could do nothing about the surrounding concern of Ruina’s family, at least they were mutually happy to see each other. For now he could only imagine how the conversation went, and his imagination yielded a fairly vivid picture of a verbal battle. Words cut deeper than any blade Enzo has ever known, and Enzo could see Ruina had acquired a cut. How deep it went he couldn’t tell at the moment, but it was there, reflected in her eyes. It made Enzo look forward to a dinner with an absent King, to spare everyone, but would the King really not come to a dinner in his own home? In the wereleopard’s experience, Kings typically can’t refrain from making their presence known. But for now, Enzo could only hope dinner goes smoothly.

“We'll go to the barracks. Some of the men should be in there. If not, they will be training in the courtyard." Both boys were pleased with that, as between the two of them they had spent many hours sparring in Ritha’s courtyard and taking lessons from the Knight Commander of the Royal First Order. If Enzo had a sibling, that title would have gone to them, but a family friend wields the rank instead. The boys would often find friends among the younger squires apprenticing under their knight until one day they lawfully were bestowed Knighthood. The life of a knight was one Ikaris had desired as a child, but he was not born into a position to even qualify for apprenticeship as anyone’s squire, and as children Enzo did not have the pull then to see to Ikaris being an exception.

Enzo was aware of the distracted Ruina at his side, and it wouldn’t take a genius to have a guess at why she was. For now though, he simply walked with her, glancing at her with a reassuring smile from time to time. "They are creepy." Ikaris wasn’t pleased no one seemed to meet his passionate distaste of portraits, but he didn’t comment further on it. Instead growing quiet again and recoiling his close presence from the other wereanimals as they walked, straying behind as if to “enjoy” the views around him. Which the views weren’t bad, Ikaris was just being moody, and per his character, moods could shift again in a matter of seconds. “You two have probably spent a lot of time between the barracks and courtyard yourselves,” Enzo spoke, glancing between Thaola and Ruina, “what’s it like to be surrounded by the members of the Truhan army? Iprihan’s are filled with stiff upper lipped jerks, and Ritha’s men and women in servitude… well I’ll just call my people fiercely devoted to their practice.” Enzo finished with a light chuckle, but he was curious to see how those in Truhan’s barracks lived and behaved. Again, not for intel of course, just because the great variations of people within their kingdoms fascinated Enzo.

Iprihan’s knights and individuals in armor were an emotionless bore. But Rithian knights? Between their skill and personalities, Enzo had reason to believe the generations of knights in the kingdom is the greatest reason Ritha has continued to hold their own so wonderfully for hundreds of years. All are fiercely loyal to the crown, but with the gods as witness, most of the men and women in the knights' order and army were terrifying forces to be reckoned with. The unrelenting drive among them all was awe worthy, but certainly they were in their own rights a wily bunch. And in battle? The kind of people that will still spring at enemies with a sickened smile while missing a limb, an eye, and weighted by gruesome wounds littering their bodies. No ounce of life was put to waste, and even those that return from battle that most certainly shouldn’t be in service any longer… well it’s difficult to discharge a Rithian knight. Respectful and unwaveringly loyal they are, but damn do they also have quite the mouths when surrounded by their fellow knights. What Enzo loved the most though? None were afraid to beat him in a spar. They respected Enzo, but they did not sell themselves short even when faced with a royal. And that, Enzo respected. It assured him if need be -not these people had to prove it- they would not relent in defending from even an army or anything greater than them.

In secretive confidence, Enzo was certain it wasn’t the lower, middle, or working class citizens he needed to worry much about when it comes to crime. In fact, it’s the wealthy, noble born class. If the wereleopard had to guess, a few of the wealthier elitists in the kingdom knew how to launder, run underground places to generate untaxed wealth, and devise other cunning ways to gather more money than they already had. Of course, the problem is uncovering the trails, and to even make an accusation with no proof is a crime in itself. Enzo assumed, just by knowing some of the wealthier people in his kingdom, that there were things hidden below the surface. He fully intended on putting an end to the things his parents either didn’t see, didn’t care about, or were turning a blind eye to. So perhaps, one day his dungeons will be filled with a few that truly deserve to rot.

The only reason Ikaris was just barely considered -to some degree- an honorary guest of the Ritha palace was because of Enzo. Ikaris had no rank, did not belong to a bloodline of status, and was far too wily to be anyone of important standing. This though was the King and Queen’s views of the wereeagle. Ikaris’ father is still the royals favored weapons maker, so naturally everyone assumed the best Ikaris would do was follow in his father’s footsteps. Which Ikaris wouldn’t, and he also knew what the King, Queen, and his father thought was unfounded because it wouldn’t matter in a few years. And quite frankly Ikaris isn’t quite an individual that does well with responsibility either, so he can only be trusted with so much to balance at once. Too much responsibility could lead to Ikaris dropping everything and walking away, or he’ll go on a massive power trip. Enzo knew these things, so… all the more reason to keep Ikaris much closer once Enzo does start handing out ranks when he takes the throne.

Considering the person Enzo is, confrontation bothers him just as much as it doesn’t. In an odd way, he’s used to it… but a few years of fighting with Amber will do that to anyone he supposed. It was still draining to endure, and yet Enzo did. While the wereleopard doesn’t raise his voice -ever-, it’s his silence he’s heard that's the killer. There’s a certain point in every argument he’s been in to where he just stops speaking, and becomes impossible to read facially. Enzo does punish others with the silent treatment, which if he’s feeling petty enough could last for days. He’d much rather be silent than say something damaging that could never be taken back though. An the wereleopard knew if the King did come to dinner, then he’d more than likely result to just being quieter. Saying something on behalf of Ruina wouldn’t get anyone anywhere, or at least it wouldn’t coming from the Crown Prince of another kingdom.

Judging from Ruina’s distracted smiles back to him, Enzo assumed she must have still been thinking about the conversation with her father. It just looked like it had taken a toll on Ruina, and even the energy of the palace had shifted just enough for Enzo to notice when he was in there. It didn’t seem everyone needed to know about the father and daughter feuding through words for their energies to affect the spaces around them. Well, in Enzo’s experience little actually shifts Tarron's generally calm aura. It would frighten the wereleopard to see Tarron genuinely angry actually, and certainly Enzo didn’t want to be on the receiving end of such an anger from a relatively calm creature.

"Hmm, personally, Truhan warriors are devoted to their cause. They fight to protect their home, and make sure our streets stay safe. But then again, Ruina was always more attune to the warriors then I ever was.” Enzo’s eyes had trained onto Thaola until she said Ruina’s name, and then his amber eyes flickered to the werewolf beside him. "Call me bias, but Truhan warriors are not anyone to mess with. They are fierce and brave, and very loyal to their home. Just as every kingdom, we do have jackasses and brats, but we handle them well. Straighten them out." Enzo did smile and make a small huff of amusement. He didn’t mind bragging in the slightest, it’s not as if it's wrong to be proud of your kingdom’s people. "Straighten them out? Like how you made a unit of new recruits live on a ship for a week with very little resources to teach them a lesson?" That Enzo chuckled at, and even Ikaris snickered to himself at the thought. "They deserved the punishment, so I gave it to them."

“I haven’t seen many recruits in Ritha get punished before, but I have been a part of how they decide which rookie’s get the shit chores.” Ikaris smiled, catching up a little to be closer to everyone again. “You mean how they used to decide who got shitty chores. I no longer condone what the veterans do to the rookies.” Enzo said, glaring at Ikaris before speaking again. “There was a game called ‘Bull’ the Rithian soldiers played with newbies. Pretty much, a handful of the new recruits were picked to sit at a small table set out in a corral. And then someone would release a very angry bull into the corral. Any rookies left seated at the table were off all chores for the month, and everyone that ran got assigned the chores nobody wanted for that month. And this repeated every month. Until two years ago.” Enzo said, which was the gist of it all.

“I broke my collarbone and dislocated my hip the first time I played, but I was the last one sitting at the table… so I won.” Ikaris smiled proudly. While he didn’t have to do chores regardless, he wanted to play for the thrill. And thrilling it was! That bull and Ikaris made eye contact before it charged him, and that adrenaline was awesome. “You also got a concussion, went unconscious for 10 minutes, and threw up on me when you came to. So yeah, no more of that game. Ever.” Enzo scowled, but Ikaris shrugged. “Fun is fun, pain is pleasure. I don’t see what the issue was.” This is where Enzo could have began a squabble about how idiotic it is to disregard one’s own life, blah blah blah, but he stopped there. Honestly if the injuries had been sustained by anyone else Enzo would have found it mildly funny, but it’s always scary to see someone he genuinely cares about hurt. Not that Ikaris even acted injured; he woke up, threw up, gave an unfocused smile, and said “let’s go again”.

Ruina had never been one to directly confront anyone. She trusted her instincts and they were rarely ever wrong. Her men often brought her people they believed to have committed a crime, anywhere from lower class to noble born class, and Ruina judged them. Along with Ayduin of course. And she had no hesitation to confront them, interrogating them. The noble born, though respectful of the royals, were always offended that Ruina would think such a thing. Yet the werewolf pushed and the truth always came out. And from statistics, the noble class has committed more crimes then the lower class.

It was true that the noble class knew how to launder money and run underground and illegal operations to gather money. And no doubt they pushed and bullied the lower classes. Which is why Ruina put her men everywhere in Truhan. Not to make the citizens feel like they had no freedom, but to keep the noble born in line. They always caused the most issues. Especially the younger ones, the ones who were in their teenage phase and thought they could boss around anyone because they were of noble blood. Ruina would always remember the time she'd gone into town disguised as a common folk and a noble born brat had tried to order her around. Her guards had thrown a fit and the boy had fainted when she'd thrown her hood off, revealing who she was.

Her guards had wanted to severely punish the boy for speaking and treating a royal in such way. But when the boy had come to, Ruina had informed the boy that this time it was a warning, and that he better start treating people better. Else wise, next time he was caught speaking to anyone like that by one of her men, he'd be brought to the castle and would have to stand trial for a crime. The boy was an all bark and no bite kind of brat, and so he was groveling in seconds, swearing up and down, on the gods, on his parents, and on his life that he would never do it again. At that point, Ruina was just about tired of him, and had sent him along the way with another firm warning.

Confrontation was never something that Ruina ever liked, in fact, she did her best to avoid it. She only helped with Ayduin because he asked her to. But such confrontations like the ones with her father? Those she hated. Ruina was calm, a lot like her cousin, and yet she always found herself in a screaming match with her father. Many times the fight would end with Ruina storming out, and once she got back to her room, emotions would just be pouring out of her, often in the form of tears. Or she'd go to the indoor training rooms and beat the living shit out of a dummy. Then she'd give her father the silent treatment for... Well, however long she was pissed. Of course, she always did her best to avoid him. But as a royal, and him still being king, she did still have to talk to him. She couldn't avoid him forever. If her father chose to show up at dinner, it would be very awkward and the air full of tension.

The fight had definitely taken a toll of Ruina, and though she was trying her best to hide it, she was not completely successful. She knew the fights caused the entire castle's mood to shift, and she hated that. Hell, they could tell by just seeing either the king or princess. That's how bad the fights were. The only time a fight had caused Tarron to become angry had been the biggest fight Ruina and the king had had. When Ruina had come storming into Tarron's room, tears streaking down her face. The werewolf had been on his feet at once, his protective instinct kicking in as he demanded what the hell had happened. And boy, when Tarron had gone to confront the king, they'd had just about as bad of a fight. And yet, Ruina and Thaola were his only triggers for such anger and ferocity. The two people he cared about most in the world, and he protected them with his entire being.

"I haven't seen many recruits in Ritha get punished before, but I have been a part of how they decide which rookie's get the shit chores." Ruina muses,"Well, in my defense, they got three warnings." They did, each rookie got three chances to mess up, then after, the real punishment began. "You mean how they used to decide who got shitty chores. I no longer condone what the veterans do to the rookies." Ruina was really working to keep her mind on the conversation, and so she was really focused as she raises an eyebrow slightly. "There was a game called 'Bull' the Rithian soldiers played with the newbies. Pretty much, a handful of the new recruits were picked to sit at a small table set out in a corral. And then someone would release a very angry bull into the corral. Any rookies left seated at the table were off all chores for the month, and everyone that ran got assigned the chores nobody wanted for that month. And this repeated every month. Until two years ago."

Ruina muses,"Truhan use to have games, or challenges, or whatever to decide which rookies got the worse chores. But once I became captain, I made them all quit. The challenges were no more. I made a list every week with rookies names on it, they did the worst chores. That way every time new rookies came in, they had to do the chores. The rookies that were there the longest were taken off the list once we got new rookies, and so everyone in Truhan's army has had to do every kind of chore there is." Ruina shrugs,"I don't do those kind of things. Everyone can do all the chores. Hell, I've even gotten down and done the worst chores. I think it's fair everyone has to do the worst chores at least for a year, or until we get new recruits."

"I broke my collarbone and dislocated my hip the first time I played, but I was the last one sitting at the table... so I won." Ruina rolls her eyes slightly, why did that not surprise her? Thaola grins slightly, shaking her head. "You also got a concussion, went unconscious for 10 minutes, and threw up on me when you came to. So yeah, no more of that game. Ever." Ruina frowns, yeah, that would definitely be something she'd ban within the army. It was one thing to do stupid things like, who can fight the biggest beast, or who can climb higher. But to play death with a bull? An angry bull? That crossed the line. "Fun is fun, pain is pleasure. I don't see what the issue was." Thaola could partly agree to that, but then again, as mischievous and reckless as she was, she was nowhere near as reckless as Ikaris. If she saw someone doing such a thing, especially someone she cared about, she'd freak out.

Thaola leads the way into the courtyard where indeed many Truhan soldiers were hacking away at dummies and sparring each other. Many were in wereanimal form, and some were in human form. The general, a stern looking man, was strolling around. He was commenting on things and helping the men. Then he spots the group and calls out,"Soldiers! We have guests!" The soldiers slowly stop, and soon all had turned towards the group. Upon seeing Ruina, they snap to attention. The general strolls over,"Princess. It's good to see you." Ruina manages a smile,"Thank you, Riden." Riden Sparrow, the commanding officer of Truhan's forces when Ruina wasn't around. The wereshark was in the middle years, but still as fierce as ever. Though he mainly remained off the battlefield. More of an adviser and trainer.

Ruina waves at the men,"Continue your practice." The soldiers glance at each other before returning to their practices, this time doing it as if trying to show off. Which caused Riden, Ruina, and Thaola to roll their eyes at some of the stuipd things they were doing. Riden's blue eyes scan over the Ritha's,"Who are your friend's, Princes?" Ruina gestures to Enzo,"My boyfriend, Enzo." The werewolf then gestures at Ikaris,"And my friend, Ikaris." Riden whistles, a grin crossing his face as he teases the princess,"Boyfriend?" Ruina inclines her head,"Yes, Riden, boyfriend." Riden grins,"I know the school doesn't have a lot of supervision on you kids. You two been behaving?"

Thaola bursts into laughter as Ruina's eyes widen. While the werewolf playfully shoves Riden,"Riden Sparrow!" The wereshark had a massive grin on his face as he winked at the laughing werelioness. While Ruina's face was turning red. Riden continues to tease,"Is that a yes or no, princess?" Ruina's face turns redder,"Riden!" The wereshark laughs, his shoulders shaking. Riden and Ruina were close, he'd been the one who started training the young werewolf. Ruina had always considered Riden a better father then Aelrindel. Hence the reason the general was so comfortable teasing the blushing, tomato red, werewolf.

Riden turns his attention to Enzo and Ikaris,"Welcome to Truhan, youngsters. We love seeing new faces around here." Riden, though a fierce warrior, was also a very kindred soul. The wereshark smiles,"Rui, here, is the heart of our kingdom. Her and her brothers. Though without supervision, I'm not sure how she acts at school." Ah, Riden, always teasing Ruina. "I hope she's been just as kind to you two as she is to the rest of us?" The wereshark makes a vague gesture to himself and the training soldiers. Ruina was still tomato red as she shakes her head at Riden.

Confrontation, depending on the situation, is something Enzo attempts to avoid. Exceptions being when a nerve has been struck in the wereleopard, he’s being protective, or a confrontation is absolutely needed. And when it comes to the noble class, they are more troublesome than they appear. While personally he’s never had much confrontation between high borns, the only memorable time was when he slapped the son of a nobleman for snobbishly dissing the Ritha palace’s botanical garden. “Bitch like a girl, get slapped like one”, were Enzo’s exact words, and even at 14 at the time of the slap heard around the kingdom, he was still very passionate and loving of the plants he took care of. Of course he was scolded in private for acting so rashly, but it’s the least he could have done… Enzo could have poisoned that boy instead of slapping him, so to him he took the higher road instead that day.

Ruina’s demeanor after speaking with her father, in some ways, reminded Enzo of his own after fights with Amber. So, of course he was more in tune to what the looks and behavior of someone freshly out of a verbal fight would be. It’s one thing that couldn’t be hidden from Enzo, but only because he had been living through argument after argument with the werefox for years. Even when they had dished leveling blows to each other though, Enzo would still just go silent before walking away. Either to spend quiet time alone, or to find Ikaris. Or even to get away somewhere distant outside, where he could shift and scale a tree to lounge on a branch for a little while. The wereleopard doesn’t usually take his anger out physically, instead it either dissipates, or it gets locked away. Just the same as his sadness. One day he was sure that his vault of negative emotions would boil over and break out in a snap, and Enzo didn't know what to expect from that considering he’s never snapped before. Time would tell, he assumed.

"Well, in my defense, they got three warnings." Enzo had a similar three strikes rule before punishments were served, and that’s just with everyone in the Ritha palace, but he just can’t tolerate repeated mistakes. It’s annoying, and he’s only merciful to a point. The wereleopard threw quite the massive fit when he had been catered to by a few select manservants, and because of his desire to be completely independent, well he’s had no such servants for years. Other than the standard ones around the palace. And being followed for safety by personal guards? Enzo put an end to such a thing too. It would more than likely only last up until he’s crowned though, because as his father has made clear, you’re very rarely alone when you’re at the top.

"Truhan use to have games, or challenges, or whatever to decide which rookies got the worse chores. But once I became captain, I made them all quit. The challenges were no more. I made a list every week with rookies names on it, they did the worst chores. That way every time new rookies came in, they had to do the chores. The rookies that were there the longest were taken off the list once we got new rookies, and so everyone in Truhan's army has had to do every kind of chore there is. I don't do those kind of things. Everyone can do all the chores. Hell, I've even gotten down and done the worst chores. I think it's fair everyone has to do the worst chores at least for a year, or until we get new recruits.” Enzo hummed in appeasement, but her system of chores he liked. Albeit, he won’t take away every game and challenge from his soldiers. He’d much rather them find creative ways to burn their kicks for excitement out with each other rather than -mostly the men- deciding to get drunk and flirt with everything they come across. When it comes to chores, Enzo will pitch in if he sees struggling from newer individuals here and there, but he doesn’t make it a habit to participate in chores.

The greatest issue with Ikaris in general is his narcissism. And it definitely puts strain from time to time on his and Enzo’s friendship, because the wereleopard just can’t seem to pierce through that shield to talk any sense into the wereeagle. It’s not that Ikaris has little to no regard for his life, it’s that he has such a high regard for it, he doesn’t believe in death for himself. To the bottom of his heart, Ikaris fully believes he can be struck by lightning and walk it off, survive a building dropping on him, and survive getting pushed off a cliff. Injuries he’s always healed quickly from, and that’s the worse he ever anticipates; getting injured. So his reckless nature is fueled by a haughty egoism, and Enzo is terrified that one day it could very well be the actual death of Ikaris should he take it too far. And this fear Enzo has expressed, but Ikaris waves it off so easily that it concerns Enzo even more.

Both boys carefully surveyed the scene in the courtyard. Looking over every soldier, in various forms, as they trained and sparred. "Soldiers! We have guests!" That voice was enough to gather Enzo and Ikaris’ attention, and it worked more than well to get the attention of the soldiers. Enzo chuckled quietly as they stood more attentively at noticing Ruina, and from there eyes followed the approaching sterner looking individual. "Princess. It's good to see you." From the man, Enzo casts his gaze to Ruina. “Thank you, Riden." Enzo looked back to the man, Riden, as he memorized his name and face for safe keeping.

"Continue your practice." As Ruina gives that order, Ikaris stands and observes, as if demanding the soldiers try to impress him. Enzo noticed both Ikaris’ behavior, and between the soldiers that were training… differently, well Enzo was being delivered plenty of entertainment. "Who are your friend's, Princes?" Both boys look back to Riden, Enzo smiling, and Ikaris subtly sizing him up. "My boyfriend, Enzo." “Pleasure to meet you.” Enzo spoke politely upon being addressed. “And my friend, Ikaris." Ikaris was quick to pridefully throw in, “I’m the coolest friend she has.” Giving a shrug as well, it went to show he believed what he said, which Enzo rolled his eyes at. The sound of Riden whistling got the attention of the boys again though. "Boyfriend?" The wereleopard glances to Ruina, while hoping Riden wasn’t someone else he had to worry about making a poor impression on. "Yes, Riden, boyfriend.” Enzo flickered a smile back to Riden, as if to double confirm what he was to Ruina. "I know the school doesn't have a lot of supervision on you kids. You two been behaving?"

Enzo’s eyes also widened, greatly, already tempted to start verbally spewing in his own defense. Ikaris was able to get a good laugh from it as well, only silencing himself so he could further spectate this wonderful moment. “Riden Sparrow!" Enzo instead cleared his throat, and moved his gaze to Ikaris, who only wiggled his brows in mockery at Enzo. The wereleopard silently scowled, but that’s as far as he would go. “Is that a yes or no, princess?" Now Enzo was feeling second hand embarrassment, and while no color -or lack of- reflected on his face, his palms began to lightly sweat from being uncomfortable. "Riden!" Ikaris snickered at the scene, deciding not even he needed to add anything as Riden was doing a great job at turning Ruina red, and making Enzo uncomfortable.

"Welcome to Truhan, youngsters. We love seeing new faces around here." Enzo gave a half smile to Riden, while Ikaris gave a low scoff, muttering in a barely detectable whisper, “Everyone but your King.” Enzo would have shunned Ikaris for that quiet remark, but he didn’t want to interrupt Riden. "Rui, here, is the heart of our kingdom. Her and her brothers. Though without supervision, I'm not sure how she acts at school. I hope she's been just as kind to you two as she is to the rest of us?" Enzo drew in a breath to ease himself before speaking. “Ruina is amazing, and far more than just kind,” Enzo smiled, “and um-, we’re all very well behaved at school, Ruina included.” Enzo was refraining from overly doting on Ruina, as he didn’t want to add to any kind of embarrassment, but he did look at her to see if she approved of what he said.

“The boy speaks lies!” Ikaris dramatically said and pointed at Enzo, and Enzo sharply furrowed his brows, but before Enzo could say anything Ikaris continued. “As the school's resident bad boy, I must make clear I’m the opposite of well behaved.” Ikaris winked to Riden, looking back to Enzo as the wereleopard communicated through an unamused stare, “this is why you’re not allowed to talk.” “Don’t mind the drama queen.” Enzo muttered more so in apology to Riden, and Ikaris mumbled something rude in Enzo’s direction, but it went unheard. Enzo did have to bite his tongue some to keep from nervously talking though, and gods forbid he accidentally stutter. So it was tempting to stay fairly quiet, just to avoid embarrassing himself, but Enzo also didn’t want to come across as suspiciously or weirdly quiet either.

Despite Ruina's anger that she often took out of dummies, that anger never got anywhere to the point of taking it out on anyone else. The only time she got verbally angry with anyone was her father, and she often forced herself to walk away. She's never taken her anger out on anyone physically, she just couldn't do it, it wasn't right. Tarron had offered to be her punching bag, but Ruina had out right turned him down, it was against her morals.

But, Ruina was worried she'd snap one day. She knew that one could only bottle up their emotions for so long. Some people could bottle theirs up for a long time, and some couldn't. Ruina just hoped she could keep her contained for a long time. And if she did ever snap, no one got hurt because of her. One of her go to things to do when she had to blow steam off was shift and just run. She often ran in a straight lines for hours, but she'd just run.

It was drilled into every Truhan soldier, three strikes and then came the punishments. Then after the punishments started, they got ten times to mess up, and then they were suspended. If they suspended three times, then they were just out. Of course, it always depended on the situation. If it was an accident, it was often just a warning and/or small punishment. Sometimes it was so bad, Ruina would just immediately suspend and once or twice, the werewolf had had to completely discharge a few soldiers. Completely removing them from the army, stripping them of their title and weapons. They then were forbidden from ever trying to serve in the army again.

As for personal guards, Ruina got away with either none at all, or only a few occasionally. Mainly because she was their commander, she had more control, loyalty, and command over them then any other royal. Which was probably a bad thing for Aelrindel, since they were more loyal to his daughter then him. It was a good thing that Ruina despised only her father, and not Truhan, else she may have just ordered her soldiers to overthrow Aelrindel so Revalor could finally take the thrown. But, alas, loyalty and love for her mother and brothers kept her from doing anything too rash or stupid. Aelrindel was still king, and he had a lot more power then Ruina did. Even if Ruina commanded his armies, Aelrindel had other allies he could simply summon.

There were times Ruina allowed her soldiers to play such stupid and reckless games, but she never participated in them. And of course, she never banned them from having fun, just as long as they knew when their duty came first. Ruina knew the boundary between fun and reckless, and so she kept her men in line, without placing too many restrictions on them. They were just wereanimals after all, who liked to have fun. The game they enjoyed playing most was gathering in the courtyard and fighting in animal form against each other. The only rules in that game was no maiming, no killing, and no serious wounds. It made sure no one got seriously hurt or killed. After all, they did swear themselves into the army to serve. They couldn't serve seriously injured, maimed, or dead.

Ruina would admit she was proud of her men, bragging proud, but that was just something that couldn't be helped. Truhan warriors were calculated fighters who drilled a lot to make sure they never lost any fighting skilled. They knew how to fight as human, beast, half human-half beast, on land, and on the sea. They were efficient killing machines, and yet, they were still human. They still had humanity and they knew what was right and what was wrong. Ruina had made it a part of a soldier's training to interact and get to know people of Truhan. To get to know the people they were protecting. From the elders to the babies. And through that kind of training, she got to see the soft and gentle side of a lot of her soldiers. A lot of the biggest and toughest looking soldiers, were the ones who were the sweetest, gentlest, and kindest to people. Especially children.

Ruina saw Ikaris in the corner of her eye, watching the men, and she couldn't help but smile to herself slightly. No doubt he wanted to see the Truhan soldiers in action, real action, really showing off. Which a lot were trying to do, mainly younger ones, until the older ones thwacked them over the head and practice continued as normal. No showing off, just pure training. "Pleasure to meet you." Riden inclines his head slightly to indicate that he felt the same. Well, partly, he supposed. He didn't know either boy to well. He was gauging them based off of Ruina and Thaola, and so far, Riden was liking the Ritha's. "I'm the coolest friend she has." Thaola was quick to throw back,"Mhm, I'm pretty sure Tarron is." Ruina neither confirmed nor denied either statement.

Riden grins at Enzo's smile, the double confirmation. So the princess had a boyfriend! The girl who swore up and down that she'd never date, that boys were a waste of time, at least in terms of the romance area! Ha, Riden wanted to hear that story. How the Ritha had managed to get Ruina to break that swear. But, all in all, Riden was happy to hear that Ruina had found someone. And from what Riden was getting, Ruina was incredibly happy with Enzo. And that made Riden happy, to see the girl who would rarely leave his side because she wanted to learn to fight, be so happy. Though he was worried she'd end up like her parents. The love would fade. Riden prayed that wouldn't happen.

Riden laughs at Enzo's reaction, he'd gotten both of them flustered! Ruina shakes her head at Ikaris, Thaola, and Riden. They were getting such a kick out of this. Ruina just hoped that all this wasn't making Enzo too uncomfortable. Ruina was half tempted to turn around and usher Enzo out quickly. But that would simply get another remark from Riden! Not that the wereshark meant any harm! He loved Ruina like she was his own, not that he had kids. It was his nature to tease and mess with people he loved. And as Riden observed the two, he was feeling a little bad for making the two uncomfortable. Well, making Ruina blush, and Enzo uncomfortable. Which Riden could tell from little signs, he was good at reading people.

"Everyone but your King." Riden's sharp hearing caught that, as did Thaola and Ruina. And a set of grey eyes were quick to flash to the wereeagle. Insulting the king? Not that Ruina cared, she'd just insulted him barely ten minutes ago. However, Ikaris still needed to watch his mouth. So, not wanting to cause a scene, Ruina simply looks back at the wereshark. "Ruina is amazing, and far more than just kind, and we um-, we're all very well behaved at school, Ruina included." Ruina turns slightly red again at the compliments, though she flashes a grin at Enzo, warmed by his words. Riden chuckles,"Oh, I'm sure Rui causes some issues." Ruina sighs,"Riden..." The wereshark shrugs,"What? We all know you love to cause some mischief here and there."

That the werewolf could not deny and she simply shakes her head as she smiles at the wereshark. "The boy speaks lies." Ruina sighs, shaking her head as the wereeagle continues. "As the school's resident bad boy, I must make clear I'm the opposite of well behaved." Riden simply raises an eyebrow, what an odd boy. But his attention shifts to Enzo as the wereleopard speaks,"Don't mind the drama queen." That caused Ruina and Thaola to grin. Thaola adds on,"Watch out for that one, Riden, he's not only a drama queen. But he'll switch moods on you quicker then you can blink." Ruina agrees,"Don't mind him either, he's just upset that he's got a leash on him during this trip." Ruina knew all about Enzo telling Ikaris that he wasn't allowed to say much, or be away from the wereleopard in fear he'd insult a royal. Or get himself into trouble.

Ruina glances around,"Well, Riden, I'd hate to bother you more. And we've got a tour to continue. So, we will get out of your hair." Riden's eyes twinkle,"Rui, you should show your boyfriend the gardens. They are lovely this time of the year." Ruina agrees,"Indeed I will. In fact--" Ruina turns to Thaola,"Do you want to take Ikaris to the barracks and Enzo and I will visit the gardens." Then her grey gaze flickers to the boys, though she was mainly speaking to Enzo, knowing Thaola would drag Ikaris along regardless. "Is that okay with you?" If Enzo wanted to see the barracks, then that was fine with Ruina. But knowing Enzo's love of plants, she figured he'd love to see the garden as well.

While anger is a rather awful emotion to experience, at least for Enzo, he’d like to think he currently has a firm hold on it. Staying quiet, walking away, those are his methods to defuse himself. It works for now, so don’t fix what’s not broken, right? There’s also something called ‘anger management’, which Enzo could see some people getting some use out of… one wereeagle in particular. Actually, void that, is there all around emotional management? Even if there was, it would be far too much effort to trick Ikaris into going, and then finding a way to keep him there without him stabbing someone with a pencil. Perhaps Ikaris just needed methods to defuse? But Enzo’s tried everything with the bird, and watching Ikaris breathe and count to ten while fuming is funny, but it doesn’t work. Ikaris is probably one of few people who actually enjoy physically hauling off on people, which is bad, but dummies don’t suffice. Even herbal tea makes Ikaris hyper, which is terrible, so Enzo’s at a wits end with curing Ikaris and his anger.

When it came to the soldiers of Ritha, Enzo primarily left how they were run to the Commander. When he’s home, between the light dungeon duty he has, as well as the abundance of duties he already has to sort through as the Crown Prince, well there’s certainly not enough time for him to be solely in charge of an army. So while he does frequent the barracks and courtyard, Enzo’s more just there to spar and train rather than instill and enforce rules. Of course there are basic expectations, such as upholding the oath each soldier takes before being knighted. To break the Rithian knight's oath, well there better be a damn good reason, or a soldier would risk immediate expulsion.

While Enzo can be lenient between soldiers and various servants, aids, whatever; there are points where his patience wears much thinner. Personally he’s had a revolving door of chamber upkeepers in his absence from home, but if he returns home to find a thin layer of dust on his things… someone isn’t doing their job of touching up the room every other day, now are they? It’s simple; dust, keep the linens and clothes freshly clean, polish glassware, and water the plants. So yes, if he finds one of those simple tasks not being completed, he believes idiocy and laziness are to blame, and whatever poor wereanimal failed Enzo will receive the lecture of a lifetime before getting fired. Indefinitely.

One of the greatest things Enzo was personally proud of in terms of his soldiers is their adaptability on varying terrain, and in extreme weather. The Crown Prince himself would oversee extreme drills in much rougher terrain, and in multiple forms of harsh weather. The sea was not a realm Rithian’s touch, but land and weather they tolerate with fluid grace. From front liners, trench dwellers, small units, even the furthest back placed archers. They all could easily endure what they’ve been trained to. Once a year, special Rithian units will drill in Yudia, just to learn to work with more extreme colder climates. And in turn, Yudian’s get to embark to Ritha in the trade season for a few specially dedicated days to their arrival, where most of what they seek is significantly lowered in price. And considering Enzo tarnished the alliance between Iprihan and Ritha, well the wereleopard was hoping to at least keep those of the tundra a bit closer in terms of allies now that Iprihan would be a waning one.

Ikaris truly had enjoyed watching the Truhan soldiers training, up until the older ones intervened. It wasn’t as fun to watch when the younger ones weren’t pining to impress, which Ikaris had huffed at. “Mhm, I'm pretty sure Tarron is." Ikaris did give a glance to Thaola, smiling before he spoke. “Mhm, debatable.” Securing a wink to the werelioness, Ikaris looked on. Would the wereeagle seriously make a list to determine who’s cooler? Absolutely. He’ll make copies for everyone. Tarron is cool, Ikaris wouldn’t deny that. But compared to Ikaris? Sorry wolfy, you can't touch this.

Enzo knew by Riden’s demeanor that he meant well, the wereleopard was just a bit out of his element, being second hand hazed by a general of another kingdom and all. It’s why Enzo kept smiling though, to express he knew it was just to poke a little fun. It still made him uncomfortable, only because he didn’t want to say something that reflected how flustered he felt. Because Enzo is not used to being flustered, he’s used to flustering others. And to see Enzo in such a manner made it so much better for Ikaris.

The wereeagle was also fully aware of when Ruina had looked at him after his quiet comment, but like, he was given the perfect opening for the remark. It’s that temptation to speak on opportunity that gets him in trouble every time, because he is a person who lives on impulse. "Oh, I'm sure Rui causes some issues." Ikaris did smirk though, getting ready to comment, but he caught Enzo’s cool rage settled into the wereleopard’s amber eyes. Ikaris dropped his shoulders and relented from speaking, and just as quickly as it had come, Enzo’s wrath danced out of his eyes as he gazed back to Ruina. "Riden..." The wereleopard did chuckle lightly though, especially as Riden spoke again. "What? We all know you love to cause some mischief here and there." Well, that was true for both the Ritha’s and the Truhan’s of the wild card group. So Enzo’s silence was also his agreement.

"Watch out for that one, Riden, he's not only a drama queen. But he'll switch moods on you quicker then you can blink." Ikaris’ blue hues snapped to Thaola, already his finger pointed in her direction ready to interject… but what she said was true, so with a small glower he recoiled his finger and dropped his hand back to his side. "Don't mind him either, he's just upset that he's got a leash on him during this trip." An incredibly loud gasp did escape the wereeagle at that though, with a look of mild anger and betrayal crossing his face. “Oi, you don’t get to talk about that,” he firmly told Ruina, before his eyes settled on Enzo with a glare, “so you’re just airing out our dirty laundry to her, huh? Leash and all? Hypothetically I’m strangling you to death with the invisible leash.” Ikaris hissed. “Hypothetically I’m invulnerable to your invisible leash, and I raise you by using said leash as your new mouthpiece to keep you quiet.” Enzo smirked, squinting his eyes to rub it in. Ikaris puffed his chest, ready to throw down with the wereleopard right then and there.

“Well, Riden, I'd hate to bother you more. And we've got a tour to continue. So, we will get out of your hair." As Ruina was speaking, Enzo quietly tsked his tongue while shaking his head in Ikaris’ direction. It’s rude to brawl when in conversation with others. That silent communication nearly drove Ikaris mad… more rules! "Rui, you should show your boyfriend the gardens. They are lovely this time of the year." Enzo did completely focus back on Riden at the mention of the gardens though, and the rushing glow of excitement glinted in his eyes as he turned to Ruina with a great eagerness. "Indeed I will. In fact--" Ikaris took that pause as the girls were focused on each other to stick his tongue out at Enzo. Although the wereeagle briefly forgot Riden was still there, and then he acted as if he did nothing, which Enzo shook his head at. "Do you want to take Ikaris to the barracks and Enzo and I will visit the gardens."

Ikaris and Enzo were both very pleased to hear what they would each get to be seeing. “Is that okay with you?" Both boys nodded, with Enzo focusing solely on Ruina. “That sounds great, I’m ready when you are.” Enzo smiled, and while it's an odd little thing, plants really are a ticket to his heart. Ikaris was excited to see the barracks, and true to his character, his mood had flipped as soon as it was mentioned. “Can we go now, kitty? Come on!” Ikaris energetically jumped, trying to get Thaola on the move to lead him as soon as possible. “Have fun with the barracks, prick.” Enzo smirked in taunt to Ikaris, who ceased his ecstatic nature to fire back. “I hope you and Ruina have a great time too, fuckface.” Ikaris smirked back, flipping Enzo off at the same time. “Oh, if we weren’t in a public setting right now…” Enzo trailed off in warning with a devilish smile, but then both boys turned their attentions to the Truhan girls they were going with. “So, shall we go to the gardens?” Enzo smiled to Ruina, brushing off his moment with Ikaris.

“We’re burning daylight blondie, let's get our tour on.” Ikaris wiggled his eyebrows at Thaola before chuckling, the wereeagle also brushing off his brief quarrel with Enzo. It would be forgiven and forgotten in like ten minutes anyway between the boys before they were best friends again, but them going separate ways for the meantime was probably best for everyone. Plus, Ikaris wouldn’t miss the opportunity to playfully tease Thaola about her host energy in the palace.

Anger was something that Ruina did not enjoy, it caused her to do things she often regretted. And so, she learned how to bottle it up, or at least take it out in ways that would hurt no one and she would not regret. The best way, and the most common, was Ruina turning full animal and running. She ran until she couldn't run anymore, until she'd been in her animal form so long, she no longer felt human. Then she'd return home. Thaola never had issues with anger like Ruina and Tarron did, though that didn't mean the werelioness had no anger issues, she just controlled them a whole hell of a lot better. Then there was Tarron, he had a hell of an anger issue, at least when it was triggered. The werewolf had found away to basically lock his emotions away, to keep himself calm. But sometimes the emotions were triggered, and his anger was wrathful, especially when he was being protective over those he loved.

With Revalor as the Crown Prince, he got the bigger and most important jobs, leaving his siblings with pretty much scraps. Ayduin immediately took to the dungeons, looking forward to seeing what kind of havoc criminals caused to land themselves into the dungeons. Which of course has ceased over the years. Which left Ruina with very little to do, until their old commander retired. Leaving a perfect spot open for the princess. Before her father could appoint someone else, Ruina swept in and quickly took it. Much to the displeasure of her father, but by the time Aelrindel had found out, the soldiers had already sworn themselves to their new commander. To take Ruina out would dishonor the princess, and offend many. So, reluctantly Aelrindel left his daughter in the role.

Although the king had been trying to pry her out of it ever since. Which failed every time, even when Ruina had left for school, she still remained Commander. Simply leaving her soldiers in the charge of her most faithful and loyal General, Riden. And knowing Riden would never betray Ruina, especially to Aelrindel, Ruina knew her position was safe and it would be there when she returned. Which of course had simply pissed Aelrindel off more. Oh, boy did she get a letter about that. Which she had ignored and thrown away. She was the Commander of the Truhan army, and she had proven herself a worthy Commander. She wasn't going to just step down and allow her father to knock her away from the position she loved so. Especially because that would mean Aelrindel would take Ruina completely away from being a warrior.

Truhan soldiers did best on the sea, that was what they were trained for the most. But, they had training all over. Many times the terrian around Truhan had been modified to fit training, though, they definitely could use some more help on the variation of terrains. They didn't travel out of Truhan to train, they stayed solely within Truhan, which was a great weakness. They needed to experience how it really felt to fight in all kinds of terrains and weather. Especially because they didn't get ice storms, just sea storms, and if Truhan ever went to war against kingdoms like Yudia, they would struggle in the cold and snow. Although Ruina had pushed for moving training to other kingdoms, but of course, Aelrindel had refused and denied the request. Stating Truhan warriors would stay in Truhan unless they were fighting a war.

The soldiers continued to train for a little longer, and then one of the older ones let out a whistle, and suddenly the training ceased. It had been a signal to stop, and so the soldiers did. They'd been hard at training all morning and Riden had said they only had to go to a certain time, and it had just hit that time. Now any kinds of sparring and training were purely for fun and entertainment, and completely on their own time. Though many headed for the barracks to change and go out on the town. No doubt to join friends, or find sweethearts, or perhaps even continue hunting the beast terrorizing Truhan. There was no telling what they'd do. "Mhm, debatable." Thaola would argue with that, Tarron could easily beat out Ikaris in terms of cool. But the werelioness simply bites her tongue.

Ruina would have slapped Ikaris if he had said another word, but thankfully the wereeagle just kept his mouth shut. It was one thing to say things in front of a General, but if Ikaris started to grow a little to confident in saying what he wanted, something could slip and he could offend a royal. Now, Ruina wasn't worried about her mother and brothers, they were laid back and shook things off easily. But Aelrindel? He'd be pissed, and offended, and if he didn't order immediate punishment, he'd order Ikaris immediate leave of Truhan. Which would of course put a damper on things because no doubt the rest of the group would return back to the school with Ikaris and not remain in Truhan.

Thaola smirks at Ikaris, knowing he had nothing to say back, because she was right. As was Ruina, and her statement caused quite a reaction. "Oi, you don't get to talk about that." The words, if it reminds you that you need to keep your mouth shut, I'll talk about it all I want, almost came out of Ruina's mouth. However, Ruina simply bares her teeth at the wereeagle, he could try and stop her, but it wouldn't work. "So you're just airing out our dirty laundry to her, huh? Leash and all? Hypothetically I'm strangling you to death with the invisible leash." Ruina rolls her eyes at the wereeagle. Overreacting much? "Hypothetically I'm invulnerable to your invisible leash, and I raise you by using said leash as your new mouthpiece to keep you quiet." Ruina could point out that the hypothetical leash was obvious, as clearly Ikaris has been holding back many words he's been wanting to say. But figured she better not salt the wound anymore.

Ruina couldn't help the brief grin on her face at the excitement that flashed through Enzo's eyes. She figured as soon as Riden mentioned the gardens, the wereleopard would be excited. Ruina had planned on showing the gardens to Enzo, she just didn't know when. Apparently the time was now. Riden's gaze was flickering between the Ritha's, aware something was going on between them, but not exactly sure what. They seemed close, and then they didn't. But, perhaps they were like Thaola and Ruina, they had their good moments and other moments the two could be at each other's throats. Although the at each other's throats never showed up as much, especially while at school.

"That sounds great, I'm ready when you are." Ruina beams, her mind now focused on the present,"Sweet! I'm sure you'll love the gardens." She hoped he would, it was something that her mother loved and had worked on with the help of servants. "Can we go now, kitty? Come on!" Thaola rolls her eyes,"Calm down, birdie, we'll get there." Though the werelioness starts towards the barracks, pausing as she hears Enzo start speaking. "Have fun with the barracks, prick." Thaola sighs, shaking her head at the boys, Boys will be boys. "I hope you and Ruina have a great time too, fuckface." At that the stern look returned to Riden's face and a hard glint enters his eyes as he watches Ikaris flip Enzo off. "Oh, if we weren't in a public setting right now..." At that, Riden opens his mouth to say something, but Thaola beats him to it.

The werelioness grabs Ikaris' ear and drags him off, forcefully, making sure to dig her fingers in to keep him moving. "So, shall we go to the gardens?" Ruina smiles, offering her hand to Enzo,"We shall." Then as soon as Enzo was ready, Ruina starts off, moving down the pathway towards the gardens. Though she paused briefly to throw a look over her shoulder at Riden, mouthing, sorry. Riden could be strict, and he had a thing about using vulgar language. He found it... displeasing to say the least. Riden didn't punish it when it came out of his soldier's lips, but he did discourage it. Ruina never used vulgar language around Riden, even though the wereshark was well aware that Ruina said such words.

Thaola was quick to release Ikaris once they were far enough away, rolling her eyes. "We're burning daylight, blondie, let's get our tour on." Thaola sighs,"Your words are going to get you killed one day, birdie. Your lucky Riden's so laid back." Would those words even effect Ikaris? Would the wereeagle even care? Thaola glances sideways,"Now, you be careful what you say when you go in those barracks. Most of those boys are laid back, but some take things to seriously." Which Thaola found stupid, take a joke! "If you manage to piss one off, I may not step in and save you."

Sometimes Enzo wished he had younger siblings to pass certain -unwanted- duties to. It would be much easier if he had a sibling he knew he could trust to at least take over certain responsibilities, versus screening other wereanimals thoroughly just to be completely sure they’re fit for the task. Instead, he’s the lone shining star heir. Royals with siblings certainly had advantages as well in Enzo’s eyes, if they were to operate as a well functioning family unit that is. Placing siblings in higher positions knowing the obligations for the title will be fulfilled above and beyond expectation, well that would be a nice luxury. Instead it's Enzo that carries the weight of conducting several political affairs, economic overviews, in-person addresses around Ritha, and crisis management. Those are just some of his more pressing demands for attention, which most he currently gets around because of school.

Ritha has always been known to conduct training and drills at least once per year with allies. Even the past few years it’s been Iprihan and Ritha that have drilled together between the two kingdoms; Ritha providing Iprihan with the ability to learn to fight well in mountainous and forested terrain, and Iprihan giving insight into flatlands -and how to enclose and push enemy forces into the Maratane Plains-. Of course, one kingdom never shares all of their military tactics with another, only the tactics that compliment each army’s teamwork efforts should they work together in war. It was Enzo a few years ago, with his father’s permission, who traveled to Yudia in person to fully arrange their now yearly war games. And with Yudia having not been the greatest fan of King Saxon, the promise of Crown Prince Enzo ascending the throne in the coming years did coax the Yudian King to accept and cooperate. With the bonuses in the trade season being the main kicker too.

Yep, and now that the Truhan soldiers had seemingly finished training and sparring after the whistle, Ikaris was bored of the scene. Enzo had observed enough to see a taste of Truhan’s training abilities, but he wasn’t here to labor over watching another kingdom’s tactics. Truly, the wereleopard was just enjoying his leisurely trip. Mostly a leisurely trip if you count wanting to avoid the King, and keeping an eye on Ikaris.

Both Enzo and Ruina were on similar pages with how to deal with Ikaris’ mouth. Of course, even with the wereleopard’s threats, and the reprimands, and the thorough lecture he already gave… it hurt him to be too hard on Ikaris. It really did, which made the line between symbolic brother and royal superior a very difficult thing to maintain. As much as Enzo really hates to admit it, even with their squabbles and Enzo’s “punishments”, it's his soft spot for Ikaris that won’t allow him to go too far. Enzo just can’t. Knowing full well if Ikaris did offend an entire nation, regardless of whether the wereeagle was in the right or wrong, Enzo would more than likely defend and stay by his side. Ikaris has never taken something far enough where consequences affect everyone around him though, and whether that was Ikaris’ mercy or coincidence, when would the streak end?

Ikaris’ face had only been briefly neutral with Thaola and her smirk, but he couldn’t quite argue on what was an evident truth. At Ruina baring her teeth though, Ikaris waved his hand dismissively at the werewolf. Ikaris wasn't interested in quarreling with Ruina, she hasn’t done anything but say something he didn’t want to hear, so he didn’t push it. If the leash hadn’t been obvious, Enzo would have been nervous about everyone’s skills of observation. Hopefully Ikaris was just exercising his mouth around his friends -exception of Riden-, and if that’s the case then maybe he’ll be better behaved when it was needed around royals.

"Sweet! I'm sure you'll love the gardens." Enzo smiled back, obviously declaring with his eyes that Ruina was right to assume he’d love the gardens. Plants native to Truhan would be a new, interesting thing for the wereleopard as well. Not the Queen nor King had much of an interest in the Ritha garden, simply tolerating it because it was a nice thing to show off, but it was Enzo’s everything. While there were specialized attendants to care for the plants, the wereleopard was very hands-on with repotting, feeding the carnivorous species, and ensuring the health and care of each plant was above and beyond. "Calm down, birdie, we'll get there." Ikaris almost attempted to contain his energy, but that was spoiled rather quickly between him and Enzo.

"We shall." Enzo didn’t hesitate in taking Ruina’s hand, as he flashed another smile to her. And a more sheepish smile in Riden’s direction as his own form of apology before he began walking with Ruina. He stopped as well as she paused to look back over her shoulder at Riden, but carried on when she was ready. “You and Riden seem close, I can see why though. He possesses playful uncle vibes to me. When he’s not giving a stern expression, that is.” Enzo said, but if Enzo had to rope what he saw of Riden into any category, it would be playful uncle. The illegitimate younger brother to Saxon was more present when Enzo was a much younger child -up until Enzo was five-, and the two had much fun together, so Enzo had a brief idea of how a fun uncle could be. But the bastard born royal could be anywhere in all of Ioana right now. It’s been so long since Enzo has seen him though that he forgot his name, and it was never a name spoken by his parents, probably because illegitimate members of royalty “tarnish” their family names reputations.

Ikaris certainly wasn’t expecting Thaola to drag him by the ear, but he did mutter a string of “ows”, up until she let go. He did put his hand up to rub his ear, tempted to say he was shocked he still had it. "Your words are going to get you killed one day, birdie. Your lucky Riden's so laid back.” Ikaris scoffed, narrowing his eyes. “As if. And at the worst, I’m here for a fun time Thaola, not a long time,” he smiled with a wink, “and kudos to Riden for being so laid back, I’ll be sure to throw in my gratitude for that in a thank you card.” That last statement wasn’t exactly sarcastic, but it possessed such a carefree delivery that it could have come across that way. "Now, you be careful what you say when you go in those barracks. Most of those boys are laid back, but some take things to seriously." Ikaris hummed in response, but at least with most of the men in Ritha’s barracks, Ikaris was more amusement than an annoyance. “If you manage to piss one off, I may not step in and save you."

Ikaris did send a look of offense to Thaola before speaking. “I don’t need saving.” He stated, sass evident in his tone, “I’ve gotten this far just fine, burned bridges and all, by my own saving grace. And barrack boys hardly come close to the kinds of people I’ve had to bob and weave out of trouble with.” Placing his hands into his pockets, and briefly pressing his lips into a thin line, the wereeagle glanced back to the werelioness. “Which Thaola will make an appearance in the barracks? The host? The warrior? The friend that may or may not step in if I piss someone off?” Ikaris had a small smirk now tugging at his lips to express his teasing with this though.