Post by Orin Evans on Mar 26, 2020 15:05:12 GMT -5
[CASSANDRA] She had briefly turned to watch the two disappear down the hall, only to shift her green gaze back to Orin when the silence nearly lingered for too long. Eyes had playfully narrowed while she tilted her head to regard him, smirking to herself. "Do you need my help now?" she asked simply. If she could help, even a little bit, she'd be happy to...which was still a very surprising thing to her. It was almost strange how she suddenly cared. It was almost as though it had happened over night.
[ORIN] He would have wondered what had happened to the Cassandra who arrived in Aralore nearly a year ago, and why she was beginning to care now, when she never did before. But Orin understood it all. It was hard finding yourself in a land where you were a stranger and no one would give you a chance. And him being as reclusive as he could be, he understood not wanting to give others a chance, either. But perhaps Cassandra's kidnapping had sparked something in her. Maybe, he'd like to think his words had gotten to her somehow, convincing her to let those walls down every once in a while, to let people into her life. Words that maybe he even needed to heed every so often.
This wasn't the same Cassandra that arrived in Aralore. She had changed and grown and was starting to become an Aralorian. He smiled to her and shrugged his shoulders. "Sure, if you think you could..."
[CASSANDRA] Wondering what had happened to herself was always a constant thought. Simply not caring and ignoring everything front of her was just easier. It meant she didn't have to get attached to anything or anyone...and yet, here she was, doing things that she really didn't have to. Would this new her stay, or would the old Duchess eventually return? "If I think I could?" she repeated, feigning offense. Cass only thought about it for a moment more before she was walking down the hall, the opposite way of the royal chambers and guest rooms. "Let's go, cyclops." Truthfully, she hoped his face was healing better. The healer had assured her that he would be alright and that he wouldn't lose his eye; that was the only reason that she jokes about it. It would've been a shame for that handsome face to be marred like that, though she suspected it would scar.
[ORIN] A grin formed on his lips at Cassandra’s sign of offense to him questioning whether she could help him or not, and before he could say anything else, she was already walking away and calling him Cyclops. He laughed slightly, and shook his head before pushing forward to catch up with her. “Don’t call me Cyclops, that hurts my feelings,” he joked. “What if I go blind in this eye? What if it falls out?” He knew that it wouldn’t. The blade didn’t hit his eye, but more so his eyebrow and down to his cheek. It was going to leave a scar, no matter how well he kept up with taking care of it.
He fell silent as they continued down the halls, never really knowing what to say. There were several places they’d have to visit. The first being the Knights’ and military quarters in the castle—the second was the military building outside of the castle grounds. He led her towards the armory room, once again, and he finally grinned and spoke, “you just wanted to come with me so you can practice some more, didn’t you?”
[CASSANDRA] While he moved to catch up, she whirled around and continued walking backwards, watching him with amused eyes. "You?" she began with a smirk. "You have feelings?" A hand instantly went to her heart like she couldn't believe it, acting slightly surprised. Cassandra turned back around to face forward once more before she bumped into anything or anyone. "Stop the presses!" the Duchess announced to the empty hall. Promptly shutting her mouth when he finally caught up, Cassandra followed him back towards the armory where the scent of steel, grease and leather were beginning to smell intoxicating to her. It was quite possible she had some aggression to let out...then again, that may never go away. She laughed at his words, "'Practice' is an understatement, Mr. Evans. Unless someone was willing to actually teach me." Green eyes idly flickered down to her hand in remembrance of that silly splinter.
[ORIN] He watched Cassandra through narrowed eyes as she accused him of not having feelings. A loud laugh escaped him at her theatrics and he shook his head, nudging her lightly when he caught up. "Ouch. I didn't know I came across as an emotionless ass." Or maybe he did and didn't care? But he did have feelings, even if he was horrible at showing them. An exaggerated sigh was let out as he opened and held the armory door for her, entering behind her. At her words, he rose a brow, studying her for a moment. "You want to learn?" There was a charming smile that formed on his lips, maybe as if he were about to laugh at the thought of her training to fight. But he wouldn't say anything. He shrugged his shoulders and spoke matter of factly. "I could teach you."
[CASSANDRA] Oh, of course he had feelings, but as with most men, he didn't exactly wear them upon his sleeve. Her dear cousin was the same way until very recently...and she could only assume it was because of a pair of sapphire eyes. Cassandra didn't comment any further, though, only laughing at herself when he opened the door for her. But the humor began to slip away from her features, leaving only traces of it now in her eyes. But they were downcast, unsure of what to make of that smile of his- whether it was mocking or not. But yes, she was serious. Only when he mentioned that he would teach her did those eyes alight upon him in a strange mix of confusion and hope. "You would?" she asked quietly. "It's just...ever since-" The incident that she couldn't seem to say, so she sighed softly and moved on. "I'm afraid of being completely helpless again." It was almost embarrassing to admit that, and Cassandra had no false, glorified thoughts that she'd ever be able to best even an armed bandit...but maybe she'd have a chance to at least break free. Not that she expected that horror to ever happen again…
[ORIN] He had never been good at his emotions, or saying how he felt. And whenever he tried, it came out as a jumbled mess that most likely would make no sense. It was just easier to keep things to himself.
That smile slowly faded as Cassandra explained why she wanted to learn to fight, and he understood completely. Alexandria had learned and was quite a good fighter, as she proved during the attack at the banquet. She had saved the king's life, and even his, thankfully.
A frown replaced that charming grin he had worn just moments before, as he thought about her being captured by the bandits, what had almost happened and could have if they hadn't saved her. He looked at her with a serious expression then and nodded. "Of course I would." He said simply.
[CASSANDRA] It happened. That was all she could say about it now. It happened, and she'd be damned if it ever happened again. If anything, she wanted to know how to defend herself against unwarranted advances. Perhaps the idea that Saelis might be slowly infiltrating Aralore had these thoughts rushing to the forefront of her mind. And that reminded her why she was there with Orin now. Cassandra nodded in thanks. "Not now, of course, but...whenever you may find the time." He'd hear the thankful tone in her voice even if her expression could barely show it. "I'll make do for now. After all, I'm not without my wiles..." Now, she was trying to lighten the mood she had quickly ruined, exaggerating with a uplift of her brows and that wry grin. "You also have a job to do." And he was to lead the way.
[ORIN] He admired her for wanting to be able to stand up and fight for herself. Not many women would, or at least not many he had known. Orin laughed at her attempt to lighten the mood. "Of course you're not..." He said sarcastically as he shook his head. He moved down another corridor leading her to where a large room was, and inside were various tables where several men were seated at, talking and eating. He cleared his throat before speaking out loud, to get their attention. "Gentlemen..." The room became quiet as all the men immediately stopped what they were doing and turned their attention to Orin. "As you all know, the castle was recently attacked and the queen almost assassinated... I need you to go gather everyone else, bring them up here and line up by ranks..." The men quickly stood and began to scurry out. Orin stopped one man, one that looked as if Orin knew and trusted and he spoke quietly to him. "Check all of the rooms and make sure no one stays behind... I need the Tresterian army here too, please." The man nodded and ran off. Orin turned back to Cassandra and offered her a reassuring smile. "How about after the wedding we begin training?" He hadn't forgotten her.
[CASSANDRA] There were other ways to protect oneself, but this was the quickest way she could think of. For awhile, Cassandra had been wondering about many things, and a particular thought had been about who she was. Was she only to be the wife of a Duke for the rest of her life (or sadly, for the rest of his life?) Would Edward have the power to send her to some other foreign land to wed someone else? The future was never certain, and hers definitely wasn't...but maybe she could finally have control over something. Laughing softly, she followed Orin to the large hall; her green eyes falling upon the many faces in front of them while they were addressed. Nervously waiting, she wondered how long it might take for this to be done. There were many faces, plus more when Orin's orders were fulfilled, and she silently prayed that she would recognize anyone that did not belong. His words broke her from her thoughts, and she quickly turned her attention back to him in mild surprise. "That sounds like a plan," she answered him. Hands clasped in front of her, she was the very vision of a proper lady...but she took a sidestep closer to him, leaning in just enough so that she could whisper while the men bustled about. "Now, does training attire include a loincloth?" Well, she hadn't forgotten that. Cassandra was biting down on her bottom lip to keep herself from laughing; green eyes remaining on everyone else around them.
[ORIN] Even without the title Aric suggested, Orin had sort of held leadership when it came to the military. So the men listened to him, regardless of his rank or title. He had trained many of these men and also fought alongside them in the war. But as they waited, he kept his gaze around, watching the others move about. At her comment, he nearly choked, a laugh escaping him as he regarded her for a moment. That charming grin returning to his lips again. "For you to wear or me?" His visible brow rose and he gave her a daring look.
[CASSANDRA] You don't dare Cassandra Davenport. Perhaps it would be something he would come to learn, or be warned of from those who knew her. While he reacted to her devious little comment, the Duchess was still looking ahead with a pleased expression on her face as though she hadn't said something slightly inappropriate. Eventually, green eyes looked sidelong to him, biting her lip again to keep herself from bursting out laughing. "I believe the original mention was for you, Mr. Evans," she said so matter-of-factly.
[ORIN] You didn't dare Orin, either... Because he did things tenfold, never really caring what others would think of him. And while Cassandra bit that lip to prevent herself from laughing, Orin did not. He grinned, chuckling out loud. "Right... Well, I could make it happen if you really wanted. Don't test me... You might regret it."
Soon, men began to filter back into the room, forming lines as Orin had instructed. He stood there quietly, keeping his eyes on the room as it began to fill back up, arms folded over his chest. He would not begin until the man he gave the special task to returned.
[CASSANDRA] This was possibly the most lively and amusing she had ever seen him. Normally he was a bit more reserved, and it probably why she couldn't contain the wide grin that curled her mouth. Despite everything that had just happened and the task they were about to do, she was thoroughly amused entertained. Cassandra still stood straight, keeping her hands to herself with her eyes forward again...until he replied. Emerald gaze shifted immediately, blatantly sizing him up from head to toe before she replied; clearing her throat before doing so, "I highly doubt that, sir." Struggling to keep her laughter at bay, she nodded in greeting to those that began to filter into the room.
[ORIN] He usually was reserved. This was a side of him not many had seen, and he didn't know why he was letting her see him this way. Maybe it was that they'd been through a few things together already, and he saw her at her worst and wanted to prevent seeing her that way again.
But as the room began to fill up with people, his smile slowly faded and his expression returned to that reserved and serious one. He didn't look at her, then, as he spoke. "You highly doubt what? That I will do it, or that you'd regret seeing me in a loincloth?" The corner of his lips tugged upward ever so slightly, but he remained serious, watching as the ranks continued to filter in and line up.
[CASSANDRA] Whatever the reason for his current mood, she was glad for it. That smile of his was good enough distraction from everything else, and she wanted to quickly forget the redness of her cheek from that pompous king. However, as his expression grew serious, so did hers. She could only assume it was time for business and not jokes...but his question had her smirking, suppressing another giggle. It took her a few seconds to reply, "I suppose both." There was no doubt in her mind that she wouldn't regret it, but it also wasn't proper attire for these part of the world (or anywhere in the world, really), so it was simply a joking challenge she didn't expect him to fulfill. Still, a girl could dream.
[ORIN] He couldn't prevent the grin from lifting the corners of his lips at her answer. And it was settled, he'd embarrass the hell out of her during her first training session with him. She asked for it. Orin wasn't ashamed and if you told him something couldn't be done--he'd prove you wrong, whatever it may be. He remained silent, though, not saying anything more about it. When the man returned and motioned to him that everyone was in the room, Orin stepped forward, whistling loudly through his fingers to quiet the room up. The loud roar of the combined voices instantly dulled down to silence. Any of the light mood he had shown instantly disappeared, and his expression was completely serious, maybe even intimidating. "Can I have the Tresterian guards over in that corner." It wasn't a question, really, but more so a demand. He then stepped over to one of the lines, where a tall blonde woman stood. Naeva Northam. He leaned into her and mumbled something so only she could hear. At her response he nodded, and placed a hand on her shoulder before walking off to the next line, doing the same, until he went through five different lines. When he was done he walked over to the Tresterian crowd and motioned for Cassandra.
[CASSANDRA] Although the seriousness was plastered to her face, her insides were swimming in amusement. There was a light in her eyes that took its time to fade away while she watched Orin take charge and speak with Commander Northam, before walking the lines of men in front of them. Now, her stomach was twisting into knots, afraid that a few Saelisians had infiltrated the Aralorian ranks. They had already managed to pretend to be from Tresteria...and she prayed she would be able to tell them apart from her own kinsmen if any still remained. She briefly wondered if any of them knew what was happening. Then it was time, and Orin was motioning her over. Green eyes flickered to him, forcing her fear away as she approached the smaller group of Tresterian guards. Most had been killed before the skirmish, and these were the only ones that remained to escort Edward and his family home in a few days. Swallowing the hard lump in her throat, straightening her back, Cassandra slowly began to walk the line of armored men, taking a few seconds to study each of their faces. Fingers toyed with the various gold rings that adorned her hands, teeth biting the inside of her bottom lip. One of them grinned at her, and she was slow to remember that one. Oh, yes...a particular night during one of Edward's overly done dinner parties, she let this one entertain her in the shadows. Just heated kisses until she got bored of him. Fancy seeing him here. Moving on, she still vaguely recognized each man- clean shaven and short hair. Edward liked his personal guards to have a particular and "proper" appearance...so it was why she was instantly stopping at the man who was third to last in the line. Her movements became slow, her expression unsure. There was something in the man's eyes that made it clear he was nervous and unsure, and that made her stomach sink even further. His hair was too matted, his beard unkempt while his armor was not up to par with the rest. Then, it were as though time slowed down when she was turning her head to find Orin, and the Saelisian panicked, knowing now what was happening. Even in a room full of armed guards, he was drawing the knife from his side and reaching for her; harshly yanking her against his chest, the blade's tip against her chest as he was about to use her as a human shield to slip right on out of there.
[ORIN] As he had spoken with the commanders of each division, they had informed him everyone in line was Aralorian. He could have asked whomever the Tresterian guard commander was, but he did not know him, and clearly, they did not notice one of the men standing amongst them was not one of theirs. His eye flickered back and forth between Cassandra and the men as they moved down the line, the woman moving past each one, that he assumed she was not suspicious of. But when she slowed down and seemed hesitant, he regarded the man carefully, seeing that nervous look on his face. He knew before Cassandra even turned to speak to him, that there wasn't something right about this man. But before he could react, the man was grabbing hold of Cassandra, holding the knife up against her. Stupid move. In a room full of military personnel? The other Tresterian guards seemed shocked by this, and suddenly surrounding around Cassandra and the imposter, so he could not get away. Orin held his hands up and spoke gently, his eye focusing on the man. "Hey... Take it easy..." He inched a step closer, holding out a hand, never moving his eyes away from the man, though he desperately wanted to look at Cassandra and tell her not to panic. The woman had just explained to him that she wanted to learn some moves to avoid situations like this--and now here she was in that very moment. And if Aric arrived, he'd surely kill him for allowing Cassandra down here in the first place. He was berating himself in his own head now, for allowing her to come. "Let her go, and you won't be hurt..." That was a lie. Orin wanted to tear this man's limbs off one by one. But he was thinking he could be better off alive for questioning. For more information of why they came back after the war had been won. He'd torture the man himself, if he had to. "You're in a room full of military...Do you really want to do this?"
The Tresterian guards wouldn't let the man escape past them, but Orin worried the man would become angered and use that knife on her. So he had to tread carefully. His eyes unmoving, he didn't dare move them off the man out of fear that if he lost his focus, he would take it as an opportunity.
[CASSANDRA] Orin's gaze may not have shifted from the Saelisian man, but hers was moving around wildly. She was acutely aware of every single pair of eyes on her, on the man who held her captive. She watched as her fellow Tresterians surrounded them immediately, weapons drawn; the Aralorians following suite. She could smell the alcohol on the man's breath as he held her ungodly close, his arm too tight around her chest. For a moment, she had forgotten how to breathe, her eyes nearly stinging with tears but her fear kept any other emotion at bay. Finally, her attention settled upon Orin as he continued to negotiate, and she was struggling not to flail in her panic. She wanted away from him, wanted to see all of these men gut him like a fish. But it would seem like she might be gutted. The blade was pressed just a little deeper into her ribs, her corset fortunately still protecting her from its sharp tip. For now. Her capturer laughed, barking in her ear and she flinched. "I see them all," the man hissed, his eyes swiveling around him as he still tried to inch closer to the exit. "But I also see they don't wish her harm..." Perhaps Cass should be delighted that even the Aralorians were attempting to keep her safe, but now was not the time. "I'd like to see you outrun them all," she murmured in both anger and fear. That made his horrid embrace tighten, the knife dig in deeper. Now she felt it, like a pointed needle, and she cried out softly from her panic. The Tresterians around her were alarmed, one of them attempting to inch a little closer but didn't dare go further. "Now let me walk out of here," the man growled. "Or we can see who is faster...because I will certainly cut her open before you hack me down." He was trying their bluff, but Cassandra could feel how clammy his hands were getting. He didn't think he was going to make it out of there alive.
[ORIN] His jaw was clenched in anger as the man spoke. Though, he still showed no emotion on his face. His hands remained up, showing that he held no weapon, and he wasn't looking to fight. "Do you really want to harm a lady?" His brow rose in a questioning manner, though he imagined this man did not care--he was part of a group who were trying to assassinate his sister. He heard Cassandra's voice and was cursing under his breath, because whatever she had said only taunted the man further to show he didn't care. Then came that cry of panic, and Orin moved a step closer as the man barked his orders. Orin reached his hand out again and spoke calmly. "If we let you walk out of here.. You will hand her over to me?" He was motioning to the Tresterian guards to clear a path, eyes challenging the man. He moved slowly, reaching his hand out as if indicating to him to hand Cassandra over, and he would step away and let him pass.
[CASSANDRA] "Not this lady in particular," the assassin said, and Cassandra could hear the grinning insinuation in his tone. Yes, they had infiltrated the castle in order to kill Alexandria...and they were still trying to. As the Tresterian guards began to slowly move away, beginning to give the man a pathway out of there, all she wanted to do was reach out for Orin's hand, so desperate to do so. But she didn't. She couldn't. They couldn't let this man out of their sights. Sure, he was outnumbered, but he had managed to remain hidden in their ranks for this long...they couldn't chance it. So, in a last ditch effort, she did the first thing she could think of. The heel of her shoe stomped sharply onto the man's booted foot, causing him to yelp and flinch; the knife's sharp blade tore through the fabric of her dress but no deeper as his hold loosened. This was their chance. She'd only have a second or two to get out of his reach before he gathered his wits.
[NAEVA] As soon as she heard Orin offer to let the man walk out if he handed Cassandra over, she was getting ready. Already plotting to have someone in the hallway to tackle the man down. She gave one of her men the signal, and he unnoticeably stepped out of the room, readying himself to attack should the man escape out of the room. She knew Orin was buying the time, then. One thing about Aralore's army, was that they were sneaky. They worked together without even having to speak, as if they all read each other's minds or knew how one another worked. Naeva had reached for one of her knives and quietly climbed up onto a chair, staying ducked below the crowd of men, so she went unseen. So when Cassandra stomped on the man's foot and he loosened his grip and wasn't looking, Naeva took action, standing up on the chair and tossing the knife at the man, hitting him directly in the arm.
[ORIN] His blood began to boil as soon as the man insinuated that he was there to kill Alexandria. This man was not going to live if he kept it up. Orin was losing his patience, but even still, he never moved his eyes from the man, and he still held that stoic expression. Though, when Cassandra took the chance and stomped on the man's foot, the man yelled out, loosening his grip and had his eyes elsewhere, Orin darted forward and grabbed Cassandra's hand, pulling her away and behind him, out of harm's way. Naeva had thrown the knife at the man, further distracting him and he had lost his guard. Several of the Tresterian guards were already tackling the man down. Orin yelled in his anger. "Keep him alive. Throw him in the dungeons." He turned and grabbed hold of Cassandra's upper arm, and pulled her along with him as he walked out of the room, not letting go of her. He didn't say a word as he walked angrily down the hallway with his grip firmly holding her arm.
[CASSANDRA] It was probably stupid of her, but she had no way of knowing what was going on within the minds of the armed guards. She had to take the chance, knowing this man would run and attempt to kill Alexandria the first moment he had. If he even managed to flee from the entire room of well-trained soldiers. Then, everything was happening so quickly. She heard the Saelisian cry out in pain as Naeva's knife hit true, drawing blood, and Orin was yanking her further away. She tried to look back to see what was to become of the man, but she found herself having to move still as she was being led straight out of the room by Orin. "What-" she tried to speak, but he kept moving. Cassandra was of half a mind to pull her arm free. So, after a few more steps, she did just that. "Stop! I need to breathe, I need to not be man-handled every bloody second!" Her adrenaline was still going, pushing her exhaustion away, but it left her mind running a mile a minute as her blood boiled.
[ORIN] He was beyond angry, his own blood boiling and his mind only thought to get Cassandra far from the situation and back to her room where she'd be safe. But she was fighting him, pulling her arm from his grasp. He stopped and turned to her, fuming. "I should not have let you come down here with me... That was wrong and stupid of me. I'm bringing you back to your room. Let's go." He pointed down the hallway, ordering her to move on. If she didn't want to be man-handled, then she best start walking. She could catch her breath while walking. He just prayed that Aric wouldn't run into them and ask what had happened, and he'd get himself into trouble for having Cassandra help him rather than wait for Aric to get there himself. He growled out of frustration and yelled at her. "Cassandra--" He was stern, urging her to move along.
[CASSANDRA] Naturally, she understood why he was so angry and upset...but she also didn't like that tone. Cassandra was the type that would refuse to do something simply because the other person was being rude. "I'm fine. Whether I was there or not, something like that would have happened anyway," she tried to explain, but he was probably still fuming too much to even care. "Not to mention, I offered to help. It wasn't entirely up to you!" As her name fled his lips in a yell, those green eyes widened, burning with her own rage. If only to get him to calm the hell down, she continued on...making sure to slam him with her shoulder on her way down the hall. Nor did she bother waiting for him. "The fuckin' nerve..." she was mumbling to herself, as though she hadn't nearly been gutted by a madman.
[ORIN] He didn't need her to make up excuses for his carelessness, so he barely listened to what she had said. He just stood there waiting impatiently with his arm extended out, pointing, his expression appearing as if he were about to blow up at any second. When she walked past him and slammed into his shoulder, he let his arm finally drop down and he followed closely behind her, not saying another word. He was hardly angry at Cassandra, even though perhaps he seemed like he was. Orin was angry at the fact that no one in the Tresterian guard noticed this man was not one of them. That they hadn't caught him. That there could still be men sneaking around the castle trying to get to his sister. He prayed Aric was still with her, at least until he could ensure that there were enough guards outside of her door. And most of all, he was angry with himself. All these thoughts whirled around in his head as he walked close to her.
[CASSANDRA] Alright then. Silence it was. She was practically storming beside him, because she couldn't help but wonder if some of this anger of his was directed towards her. So that meant, she was just going to be angry back. Yes, how childish. Cassandra didn't even bother looking at him until they reached her room and she opened the door. It swung wide and she gestured with her arm to the darkly lit inside. "Satisfied now?" No evil bad men in there.
[ORIN] When they reached her room and she swung the door open and gestured into the dark room, he shook his head in response. "May I?" He questioned, asking if he could enter her room. But before she responded, he was stepping inside, so he could check every square inch of the room to make sure it was safe and no one was in there. He still, said nothing as he moved about the room, looking behind curtains, behind corners and anywhere someone could hide. When he was certain there was no one there to harm her, he turned to her, trying to calm himself then. "I'm sorry that happened to you." He finally said.
[CASSANDRA] Her mouth opened to deny him entry...but he was stepping inside anyway. A frustrated sigh, Cass followed behind him; her arms folding beneath her chest as she watched him inspect every inch and crevice of the room. "How about the wardrobe?" she said with a pointing finger in sarcasm. When he finally decided to deem her chambers safe, he was apologizing. It only did a little to calm her nerves and cool down her anger. "Stop blaming yourself. I'm not an idiot- I knew there was a slight chance of risk." To be honest, she really didn't expect it to escalate the way it had. Cassandra drew in another slow breath, stepping up to him to place a hand to his shoulder. It had gotten heated in there, so the stress was high. "It's over and done with," she said a little more calmly. "I'm alright." She wondered how many times she'd have to repeat that, especially after Aric found out, which he inevitably would.
[ORIN] His brow furrowed as he watched and listened to her dismiss what had happened as seemingly not a big deal. But it was to him. And he did blame himself. Even if she had known there would be slight risk, he should have denied her help. He shook his head until she stepped up to him and placed her hand on his shoulder. He looked down at her, his expression changing to show some emotion, then. Concern. Ignoring everything she had said, he spoke in a more gentle tone. "Did he cut you?" He looked down at her chest, seeing the torn fabric, but did not see any blood. Suddenly realizing his eye(s) were casted down towards her breasts, he quickly looked back at her face.
[CASSANDRA] Perhaps it was that sudden look of concern on his face that stopped her from saying anything more on the matter. Maybe it had been foolish for her to suggest she help- what was she thinking, exactly? She was a mere woman, not a warrior of any kind. Withdrawing her hand, she was glancing down to her bodice when he asked. She figured she would have felt pain by now if she had been cut, but she was checking herself anyway. "No, seems like the corset-" But she stopped talking when she caught him looking a little too long, and that amused grin was instantly returning. "Did you wish to doublecheck?" Now she was blatantly teasing him, maybe her next aim would be to make him blush.
[ORIN] She had caught him looking, which was unfair since he was just checking to make sure she wasn't bleeding. And she was going to give him a hard time about it now? He cleared his throat almost nervously and held his hands up. "Nope, I'm good." He looked away from her, not wanting to make this any more awkward than it was starting to get. "Anyway... I'm sorry again... Glad you are alright. I will make sure a guard is stationed outside your door, at least until we make sure there aren't anymore men from Saelis here..." He glanced at her again, unable to help it, and he noticed that grin she wore, like she was about to laugh at him. He just stared at her with an almost annoyed look on his face. "Are you good?" He would ask one more time if she was alright before he'd attempt to excuse himself from the room.
[CASSANDRA] Funny how quickly her mood had changed. She was just fuming at him not even a minute ago, and now she stood there in purse amusement. As he began to talk, she simply regarded him with those green eyes and a tilt of her head; the smile on her face increasing even more. She couldn't be sure, but...was that nervousness? Did she catch him off guard? "Uh huh..." she murmured, just to let him know that she had been listening. Something about being sorry, again, and a guard. Sure, sure. Yes, she was about to laugh at him, especially when he appeared annoyed again. So she teased a little more, insinuating, "Oh, I'm very good." Now she had to press her lips together to keep herself from laughing while she folded her arms again, emphasizing those lovely breasts just a little more.
[ORIN] It was interesting how her mood had changed so quickly. The woman had almost, could have been killed. Orin had saved her life. Again. And she was teasing him? It was all a big joke to her, was it? At her teasing tone, he finally cracked the slightest of a smile and shook his head. "You're ridiculous." He held a hand up, as if to shield his eye from seeing those breasts again, or the way she pressed her lips together like that, and he turned his head away. "Goodnight, Cassandra."
[CASSANDRA] Ever since her capture and her time in those caves, Cassandra was quick to realize that, yes, she could have died. And her life wouldn't have been much of anything to write about. She had barely even lived. Now, when something charmed her or amused her, even when she had been frightened mere moments before, she just let it. Hopefully it didn't make her careless. She finally did laugh, though, when he called her ridiculous, turning to bid her a good night. "Goodnight, Orin," she answered, her tone softening; only following him towards the door so that she could slowly close it after him. Smirking, she let her eyes watch him walk out of her sight before retreating back into her room.
[ORIN] He would have wondered what had happened to the Cassandra who arrived in Aralore nearly a year ago, and why she was beginning to care now, when she never did before. But Orin understood it all. It was hard finding yourself in a land where you were a stranger and no one would give you a chance. And him being as reclusive as he could be, he understood not wanting to give others a chance, either. But perhaps Cassandra's kidnapping had sparked something in her. Maybe, he'd like to think his words had gotten to her somehow, convincing her to let those walls down every once in a while, to let people into her life. Words that maybe he even needed to heed every so often.
This wasn't the same Cassandra that arrived in Aralore. She had changed and grown and was starting to become an Aralorian. He smiled to her and shrugged his shoulders. "Sure, if you think you could..."
[CASSANDRA] Wondering what had happened to herself was always a constant thought. Simply not caring and ignoring everything front of her was just easier. It meant she didn't have to get attached to anything or anyone...and yet, here she was, doing things that she really didn't have to. Would this new her stay, or would the old Duchess eventually return? "If I think I could?" she repeated, feigning offense. Cass only thought about it for a moment more before she was walking down the hall, the opposite way of the royal chambers and guest rooms. "Let's go, cyclops." Truthfully, she hoped his face was healing better. The healer had assured her that he would be alright and that he wouldn't lose his eye; that was the only reason that she jokes about it. It would've been a shame for that handsome face to be marred like that, though she suspected it would scar.
[ORIN] A grin formed on his lips at Cassandra’s sign of offense to him questioning whether she could help him or not, and before he could say anything else, she was already walking away and calling him Cyclops. He laughed slightly, and shook his head before pushing forward to catch up with her. “Don’t call me Cyclops, that hurts my feelings,” he joked. “What if I go blind in this eye? What if it falls out?” He knew that it wouldn’t. The blade didn’t hit his eye, but more so his eyebrow and down to his cheek. It was going to leave a scar, no matter how well he kept up with taking care of it.
He fell silent as they continued down the halls, never really knowing what to say. There were several places they’d have to visit. The first being the Knights’ and military quarters in the castle—the second was the military building outside of the castle grounds. He led her towards the armory room, once again, and he finally grinned and spoke, “you just wanted to come with me so you can practice some more, didn’t you?”
[CASSANDRA] While he moved to catch up, she whirled around and continued walking backwards, watching him with amused eyes. "You?" she began with a smirk. "You have feelings?" A hand instantly went to her heart like she couldn't believe it, acting slightly surprised. Cassandra turned back around to face forward once more before she bumped into anything or anyone. "Stop the presses!" the Duchess announced to the empty hall. Promptly shutting her mouth when he finally caught up, Cassandra followed him back towards the armory where the scent of steel, grease and leather were beginning to smell intoxicating to her. It was quite possible she had some aggression to let out...then again, that may never go away. She laughed at his words, "'Practice' is an understatement, Mr. Evans. Unless someone was willing to actually teach me." Green eyes idly flickered down to her hand in remembrance of that silly splinter.
[ORIN] He watched Cassandra through narrowed eyes as she accused him of not having feelings. A loud laugh escaped him at her theatrics and he shook his head, nudging her lightly when he caught up. "Ouch. I didn't know I came across as an emotionless ass." Or maybe he did and didn't care? But he did have feelings, even if he was horrible at showing them. An exaggerated sigh was let out as he opened and held the armory door for her, entering behind her. At her words, he rose a brow, studying her for a moment. "You want to learn?" There was a charming smile that formed on his lips, maybe as if he were about to laugh at the thought of her training to fight. But he wouldn't say anything. He shrugged his shoulders and spoke matter of factly. "I could teach you."
[CASSANDRA] Oh, of course he had feelings, but as with most men, he didn't exactly wear them upon his sleeve. Her dear cousin was the same way until very recently...and she could only assume it was because of a pair of sapphire eyes. Cassandra didn't comment any further, though, only laughing at herself when he opened the door for her. But the humor began to slip away from her features, leaving only traces of it now in her eyes. But they were downcast, unsure of what to make of that smile of his- whether it was mocking or not. But yes, she was serious. Only when he mentioned that he would teach her did those eyes alight upon him in a strange mix of confusion and hope. "You would?" she asked quietly. "It's just...ever since-" The incident that she couldn't seem to say, so she sighed softly and moved on. "I'm afraid of being completely helpless again." It was almost embarrassing to admit that, and Cassandra had no false, glorified thoughts that she'd ever be able to best even an armed bandit...but maybe she'd have a chance to at least break free. Not that she expected that horror to ever happen again…
[ORIN] He had never been good at his emotions, or saying how he felt. And whenever he tried, it came out as a jumbled mess that most likely would make no sense. It was just easier to keep things to himself.
That smile slowly faded as Cassandra explained why she wanted to learn to fight, and he understood completely. Alexandria had learned and was quite a good fighter, as she proved during the attack at the banquet. She had saved the king's life, and even his, thankfully.
A frown replaced that charming grin he had worn just moments before, as he thought about her being captured by the bandits, what had almost happened and could have if they hadn't saved her. He looked at her with a serious expression then and nodded. "Of course I would." He said simply.
[CASSANDRA] It happened. That was all she could say about it now. It happened, and she'd be damned if it ever happened again. If anything, she wanted to know how to defend herself against unwarranted advances. Perhaps the idea that Saelis might be slowly infiltrating Aralore had these thoughts rushing to the forefront of her mind. And that reminded her why she was there with Orin now. Cassandra nodded in thanks. "Not now, of course, but...whenever you may find the time." He'd hear the thankful tone in her voice even if her expression could barely show it. "I'll make do for now. After all, I'm not without my wiles..." Now, she was trying to lighten the mood she had quickly ruined, exaggerating with a uplift of her brows and that wry grin. "You also have a job to do." And he was to lead the way.
[ORIN] He admired her for wanting to be able to stand up and fight for herself. Not many women would, or at least not many he had known. Orin laughed at her attempt to lighten the mood. "Of course you're not..." He said sarcastically as he shook his head. He moved down another corridor leading her to where a large room was, and inside were various tables where several men were seated at, talking and eating. He cleared his throat before speaking out loud, to get their attention. "Gentlemen..." The room became quiet as all the men immediately stopped what they were doing and turned their attention to Orin. "As you all know, the castle was recently attacked and the queen almost assassinated... I need you to go gather everyone else, bring them up here and line up by ranks..." The men quickly stood and began to scurry out. Orin stopped one man, one that looked as if Orin knew and trusted and he spoke quietly to him. "Check all of the rooms and make sure no one stays behind... I need the Tresterian army here too, please." The man nodded and ran off. Orin turned back to Cassandra and offered her a reassuring smile. "How about after the wedding we begin training?" He hadn't forgotten her.
[CASSANDRA] There were other ways to protect oneself, but this was the quickest way she could think of. For awhile, Cassandra had been wondering about many things, and a particular thought had been about who she was. Was she only to be the wife of a Duke for the rest of her life (or sadly, for the rest of his life?) Would Edward have the power to send her to some other foreign land to wed someone else? The future was never certain, and hers definitely wasn't...but maybe she could finally have control over something. Laughing softly, she followed Orin to the large hall; her green eyes falling upon the many faces in front of them while they were addressed. Nervously waiting, she wondered how long it might take for this to be done. There were many faces, plus more when Orin's orders were fulfilled, and she silently prayed that she would recognize anyone that did not belong. His words broke her from her thoughts, and she quickly turned her attention back to him in mild surprise. "That sounds like a plan," she answered him. Hands clasped in front of her, she was the very vision of a proper lady...but she took a sidestep closer to him, leaning in just enough so that she could whisper while the men bustled about. "Now, does training attire include a loincloth?" Well, she hadn't forgotten that. Cassandra was biting down on her bottom lip to keep herself from laughing; green eyes remaining on everyone else around them.
[ORIN] Even without the title Aric suggested, Orin had sort of held leadership when it came to the military. So the men listened to him, regardless of his rank or title. He had trained many of these men and also fought alongside them in the war. But as they waited, he kept his gaze around, watching the others move about. At her comment, he nearly choked, a laugh escaping him as he regarded her for a moment. That charming grin returning to his lips again. "For you to wear or me?" His visible brow rose and he gave her a daring look.
[CASSANDRA] You don't dare Cassandra Davenport. Perhaps it would be something he would come to learn, or be warned of from those who knew her. While he reacted to her devious little comment, the Duchess was still looking ahead with a pleased expression on her face as though she hadn't said something slightly inappropriate. Eventually, green eyes looked sidelong to him, biting her lip again to keep herself from bursting out laughing. "I believe the original mention was for you, Mr. Evans," she said so matter-of-factly.
[ORIN] You didn't dare Orin, either... Because he did things tenfold, never really caring what others would think of him. And while Cassandra bit that lip to prevent herself from laughing, Orin did not. He grinned, chuckling out loud. "Right... Well, I could make it happen if you really wanted. Don't test me... You might regret it."
Soon, men began to filter back into the room, forming lines as Orin had instructed. He stood there quietly, keeping his eyes on the room as it began to fill back up, arms folded over his chest. He would not begin until the man he gave the special task to returned.
[CASSANDRA] This was possibly the most lively and amusing she had ever seen him. Normally he was a bit more reserved, and it probably why she couldn't contain the wide grin that curled her mouth. Despite everything that had just happened and the task they were about to do, she was thoroughly amused entertained. Cassandra still stood straight, keeping her hands to herself with her eyes forward again...until he replied. Emerald gaze shifted immediately, blatantly sizing him up from head to toe before she replied; clearing her throat before doing so, "I highly doubt that, sir." Struggling to keep her laughter at bay, she nodded in greeting to those that began to filter into the room.
[ORIN] He usually was reserved. This was a side of him not many had seen, and he didn't know why he was letting her see him this way. Maybe it was that they'd been through a few things together already, and he saw her at her worst and wanted to prevent seeing her that way again.
But as the room began to fill up with people, his smile slowly faded and his expression returned to that reserved and serious one. He didn't look at her, then, as he spoke. "You highly doubt what? That I will do it, or that you'd regret seeing me in a loincloth?" The corner of his lips tugged upward ever so slightly, but he remained serious, watching as the ranks continued to filter in and line up.
[CASSANDRA] Whatever the reason for his current mood, she was glad for it. That smile of his was good enough distraction from everything else, and she wanted to quickly forget the redness of her cheek from that pompous king. However, as his expression grew serious, so did hers. She could only assume it was time for business and not jokes...but his question had her smirking, suppressing another giggle. It took her a few seconds to reply, "I suppose both." There was no doubt in her mind that she wouldn't regret it, but it also wasn't proper attire for these part of the world (or anywhere in the world, really), so it was simply a joking challenge she didn't expect him to fulfill. Still, a girl could dream.
[ORIN] He couldn't prevent the grin from lifting the corners of his lips at her answer. And it was settled, he'd embarrass the hell out of her during her first training session with him. She asked for it. Orin wasn't ashamed and if you told him something couldn't be done--he'd prove you wrong, whatever it may be. He remained silent, though, not saying anything more about it. When the man returned and motioned to him that everyone was in the room, Orin stepped forward, whistling loudly through his fingers to quiet the room up. The loud roar of the combined voices instantly dulled down to silence. Any of the light mood he had shown instantly disappeared, and his expression was completely serious, maybe even intimidating. "Can I have the Tresterian guards over in that corner." It wasn't a question, really, but more so a demand. He then stepped over to one of the lines, where a tall blonde woman stood. Naeva Northam. He leaned into her and mumbled something so only she could hear. At her response he nodded, and placed a hand on her shoulder before walking off to the next line, doing the same, until he went through five different lines. When he was done he walked over to the Tresterian crowd and motioned for Cassandra.
[CASSANDRA] Although the seriousness was plastered to her face, her insides were swimming in amusement. There was a light in her eyes that took its time to fade away while she watched Orin take charge and speak with Commander Northam, before walking the lines of men in front of them. Now, her stomach was twisting into knots, afraid that a few Saelisians had infiltrated the Aralorian ranks. They had already managed to pretend to be from Tresteria...and she prayed she would be able to tell them apart from her own kinsmen if any still remained. She briefly wondered if any of them knew what was happening. Then it was time, and Orin was motioning her over. Green eyes flickered to him, forcing her fear away as she approached the smaller group of Tresterian guards. Most had been killed before the skirmish, and these were the only ones that remained to escort Edward and his family home in a few days. Swallowing the hard lump in her throat, straightening her back, Cassandra slowly began to walk the line of armored men, taking a few seconds to study each of their faces. Fingers toyed with the various gold rings that adorned her hands, teeth biting the inside of her bottom lip. One of them grinned at her, and she was slow to remember that one. Oh, yes...a particular night during one of Edward's overly done dinner parties, she let this one entertain her in the shadows. Just heated kisses until she got bored of him. Fancy seeing him here. Moving on, she still vaguely recognized each man- clean shaven and short hair. Edward liked his personal guards to have a particular and "proper" appearance...so it was why she was instantly stopping at the man who was third to last in the line. Her movements became slow, her expression unsure. There was something in the man's eyes that made it clear he was nervous and unsure, and that made her stomach sink even further. His hair was too matted, his beard unkempt while his armor was not up to par with the rest. Then, it were as though time slowed down when she was turning her head to find Orin, and the Saelisian panicked, knowing now what was happening. Even in a room full of armed guards, he was drawing the knife from his side and reaching for her; harshly yanking her against his chest, the blade's tip against her chest as he was about to use her as a human shield to slip right on out of there.
[ORIN] As he had spoken with the commanders of each division, they had informed him everyone in line was Aralorian. He could have asked whomever the Tresterian guard commander was, but he did not know him, and clearly, they did not notice one of the men standing amongst them was not one of theirs. His eye flickered back and forth between Cassandra and the men as they moved down the line, the woman moving past each one, that he assumed she was not suspicious of. But when she slowed down and seemed hesitant, he regarded the man carefully, seeing that nervous look on his face. He knew before Cassandra even turned to speak to him, that there wasn't something right about this man. But before he could react, the man was grabbing hold of Cassandra, holding the knife up against her. Stupid move. In a room full of military personnel? The other Tresterian guards seemed shocked by this, and suddenly surrounding around Cassandra and the imposter, so he could not get away. Orin held his hands up and spoke gently, his eye focusing on the man. "Hey... Take it easy..." He inched a step closer, holding out a hand, never moving his eyes away from the man, though he desperately wanted to look at Cassandra and tell her not to panic. The woman had just explained to him that she wanted to learn some moves to avoid situations like this--and now here she was in that very moment. And if Aric arrived, he'd surely kill him for allowing Cassandra down here in the first place. He was berating himself in his own head now, for allowing her to come. "Let her go, and you won't be hurt..." That was a lie. Orin wanted to tear this man's limbs off one by one. But he was thinking he could be better off alive for questioning. For more information of why they came back after the war had been won. He'd torture the man himself, if he had to. "You're in a room full of military...Do you really want to do this?"
The Tresterian guards wouldn't let the man escape past them, but Orin worried the man would become angered and use that knife on her. So he had to tread carefully. His eyes unmoving, he didn't dare move them off the man out of fear that if he lost his focus, he would take it as an opportunity.
[CASSANDRA] Orin's gaze may not have shifted from the Saelisian man, but hers was moving around wildly. She was acutely aware of every single pair of eyes on her, on the man who held her captive. She watched as her fellow Tresterians surrounded them immediately, weapons drawn; the Aralorians following suite. She could smell the alcohol on the man's breath as he held her ungodly close, his arm too tight around her chest. For a moment, she had forgotten how to breathe, her eyes nearly stinging with tears but her fear kept any other emotion at bay. Finally, her attention settled upon Orin as he continued to negotiate, and she was struggling not to flail in her panic. She wanted away from him, wanted to see all of these men gut him like a fish. But it would seem like she might be gutted. The blade was pressed just a little deeper into her ribs, her corset fortunately still protecting her from its sharp tip. For now. Her capturer laughed, barking in her ear and she flinched. "I see them all," the man hissed, his eyes swiveling around him as he still tried to inch closer to the exit. "But I also see they don't wish her harm..." Perhaps Cass should be delighted that even the Aralorians were attempting to keep her safe, but now was not the time. "I'd like to see you outrun them all," she murmured in both anger and fear. That made his horrid embrace tighten, the knife dig in deeper. Now she felt it, like a pointed needle, and she cried out softly from her panic. The Tresterians around her were alarmed, one of them attempting to inch a little closer but didn't dare go further. "Now let me walk out of here," the man growled. "Or we can see who is faster...because I will certainly cut her open before you hack me down." He was trying their bluff, but Cassandra could feel how clammy his hands were getting. He didn't think he was going to make it out of there alive.
[ORIN] His jaw was clenched in anger as the man spoke. Though, he still showed no emotion on his face. His hands remained up, showing that he held no weapon, and he wasn't looking to fight. "Do you really want to harm a lady?" His brow rose in a questioning manner, though he imagined this man did not care--he was part of a group who were trying to assassinate his sister. He heard Cassandra's voice and was cursing under his breath, because whatever she had said only taunted the man further to show he didn't care. Then came that cry of panic, and Orin moved a step closer as the man barked his orders. Orin reached his hand out again and spoke calmly. "If we let you walk out of here.. You will hand her over to me?" He was motioning to the Tresterian guards to clear a path, eyes challenging the man. He moved slowly, reaching his hand out as if indicating to him to hand Cassandra over, and he would step away and let him pass.
[CASSANDRA] "Not this lady in particular," the assassin said, and Cassandra could hear the grinning insinuation in his tone. Yes, they had infiltrated the castle in order to kill Alexandria...and they were still trying to. As the Tresterian guards began to slowly move away, beginning to give the man a pathway out of there, all she wanted to do was reach out for Orin's hand, so desperate to do so. But she didn't. She couldn't. They couldn't let this man out of their sights. Sure, he was outnumbered, but he had managed to remain hidden in their ranks for this long...they couldn't chance it. So, in a last ditch effort, she did the first thing she could think of. The heel of her shoe stomped sharply onto the man's booted foot, causing him to yelp and flinch; the knife's sharp blade tore through the fabric of her dress but no deeper as his hold loosened. This was their chance. She'd only have a second or two to get out of his reach before he gathered his wits.
[NAEVA] As soon as she heard Orin offer to let the man walk out if he handed Cassandra over, she was getting ready. Already plotting to have someone in the hallway to tackle the man down. She gave one of her men the signal, and he unnoticeably stepped out of the room, readying himself to attack should the man escape out of the room. She knew Orin was buying the time, then. One thing about Aralore's army, was that they were sneaky. They worked together without even having to speak, as if they all read each other's minds or knew how one another worked. Naeva had reached for one of her knives and quietly climbed up onto a chair, staying ducked below the crowd of men, so she went unseen. So when Cassandra stomped on the man's foot and he loosened his grip and wasn't looking, Naeva took action, standing up on the chair and tossing the knife at the man, hitting him directly in the arm.
[ORIN] His blood began to boil as soon as the man insinuated that he was there to kill Alexandria. This man was not going to live if he kept it up. Orin was losing his patience, but even still, he never moved his eyes from the man, and he still held that stoic expression. Though, when Cassandra took the chance and stomped on the man's foot, the man yelled out, loosening his grip and had his eyes elsewhere, Orin darted forward and grabbed Cassandra's hand, pulling her away and behind him, out of harm's way. Naeva had thrown the knife at the man, further distracting him and he had lost his guard. Several of the Tresterian guards were already tackling the man down. Orin yelled in his anger. "Keep him alive. Throw him in the dungeons." He turned and grabbed hold of Cassandra's upper arm, and pulled her along with him as he walked out of the room, not letting go of her. He didn't say a word as he walked angrily down the hallway with his grip firmly holding her arm.
[CASSANDRA] It was probably stupid of her, but she had no way of knowing what was going on within the minds of the armed guards. She had to take the chance, knowing this man would run and attempt to kill Alexandria the first moment he had. If he even managed to flee from the entire room of well-trained soldiers. Then, everything was happening so quickly. She heard the Saelisian cry out in pain as Naeva's knife hit true, drawing blood, and Orin was yanking her further away. She tried to look back to see what was to become of the man, but she found herself having to move still as she was being led straight out of the room by Orin. "What-" she tried to speak, but he kept moving. Cassandra was of half a mind to pull her arm free. So, after a few more steps, she did just that. "Stop! I need to breathe, I need to not be man-handled every bloody second!" Her adrenaline was still going, pushing her exhaustion away, but it left her mind running a mile a minute as her blood boiled.
[ORIN] He was beyond angry, his own blood boiling and his mind only thought to get Cassandra far from the situation and back to her room where she'd be safe. But she was fighting him, pulling her arm from his grasp. He stopped and turned to her, fuming. "I should not have let you come down here with me... That was wrong and stupid of me. I'm bringing you back to your room. Let's go." He pointed down the hallway, ordering her to move on. If she didn't want to be man-handled, then she best start walking. She could catch her breath while walking. He just prayed that Aric wouldn't run into them and ask what had happened, and he'd get himself into trouble for having Cassandra help him rather than wait for Aric to get there himself. He growled out of frustration and yelled at her. "Cassandra--" He was stern, urging her to move along.
[CASSANDRA] Naturally, she understood why he was so angry and upset...but she also didn't like that tone. Cassandra was the type that would refuse to do something simply because the other person was being rude. "I'm fine. Whether I was there or not, something like that would have happened anyway," she tried to explain, but he was probably still fuming too much to even care. "Not to mention, I offered to help. It wasn't entirely up to you!" As her name fled his lips in a yell, those green eyes widened, burning with her own rage. If only to get him to calm the hell down, she continued on...making sure to slam him with her shoulder on her way down the hall. Nor did she bother waiting for him. "The fuckin' nerve..." she was mumbling to herself, as though she hadn't nearly been gutted by a madman.
[ORIN] He didn't need her to make up excuses for his carelessness, so he barely listened to what she had said. He just stood there waiting impatiently with his arm extended out, pointing, his expression appearing as if he were about to blow up at any second. When she walked past him and slammed into his shoulder, he let his arm finally drop down and he followed closely behind her, not saying another word. He was hardly angry at Cassandra, even though perhaps he seemed like he was. Orin was angry at the fact that no one in the Tresterian guard noticed this man was not one of them. That they hadn't caught him. That there could still be men sneaking around the castle trying to get to his sister. He prayed Aric was still with her, at least until he could ensure that there were enough guards outside of her door. And most of all, he was angry with himself. All these thoughts whirled around in his head as he walked close to her.
[CASSANDRA] Alright then. Silence it was. She was practically storming beside him, because she couldn't help but wonder if some of this anger of his was directed towards her. So that meant, she was just going to be angry back. Yes, how childish. Cassandra didn't even bother looking at him until they reached her room and she opened the door. It swung wide and she gestured with her arm to the darkly lit inside. "Satisfied now?" No evil bad men in there.
[ORIN] When they reached her room and she swung the door open and gestured into the dark room, he shook his head in response. "May I?" He questioned, asking if he could enter her room. But before she responded, he was stepping inside, so he could check every square inch of the room to make sure it was safe and no one was in there. He still, said nothing as he moved about the room, looking behind curtains, behind corners and anywhere someone could hide. When he was certain there was no one there to harm her, he turned to her, trying to calm himself then. "I'm sorry that happened to you." He finally said.
[CASSANDRA] Her mouth opened to deny him entry...but he was stepping inside anyway. A frustrated sigh, Cass followed behind him; her arms folding beneath her chest as she watched him inspect every inch and crevice of the room. "How about the wardrobe?" she said with a pointing finger in sarcasm. When he finally decided to deem her chambers safe, he was apologizing. It only did a little to calm her nerves and cool down her anger. "Stop blaming yourself. I'm not an idiot- I knew there was a slight chance of risk." To be honest, she really didn't expect it to escalate the way it had. Cassandra drew in another slow breath, stepping up to him to place a hand to his shoulder. It had gotten heated in there, so the stress was high. "It's over and done with," she said a little more calmly. "I'm alright." She wondered how many times she'd have to repeat that, especially after Aric found out, which he inevitably would.
[ORIN] His brow furrowed as he watched and listened to her dismiss what had happened as seemingly not a big deal. But it was to him. And he did blame himself. Even if she had known there would be slight risk, he should have denied her help. He shook his head until she stepped up to him and placed her hand on his shoulder. He looked down at her, his expression changing to show some emotion, then. Concern. Ignoring everything she had said, he spoke in a more gentle tone. "Did he cut you?" He looked down at her chest, seeing the torn fabric, but did not see any blood. Suddenly realizing his eye(s) were casted down towards her breasts, he quickly looked back at her face.
[CASSANDRA] Perhaps it was that sudden look of concern on his face that stopped her from saying anything more on the matter. Maybe it had been foolish for her to suggest she help- what was she thinking, exactly? She was a mere woman, not a warrior of any kind. Withdrawing her hand, she was glancing down to her bodice when he asked. She figured she would have felt pain by now if she had been cut, but she was checking herself anyway. "No, seems like the corset-" But she stopped talking when she caught him looking a little too long, and that amused grin was instantly returning. "Did you wish to doublecheck?" Now she was blatantly teasing him, maybe her next aim would be to make him blush.
[ORIN] She had caught him looking, which was unfair since he was just checking to make sure she wasn't bleeding. And she was going to give him a hard time about it now? He cleared his throat almost nervously and held his hands up. "Nope, I'm good." He looked away from her, not wanting to make this any more awkward than it was starting to get. "Anyway... I'm sorry again... Glad you are alright. I will make sure a guard is stationed outside your door, at least until we make sure there aren't anymore men from Saelis here..." He glanced at her again, unable to help it, and he noticed that grin she wore, like she was about to laugh at him. He just stared at her with an almost annoyed look on his face. "Are you good?" He would ask one more time if she was alright before he'd attempt to excuse himself from the room.
[CASSANDRA] Funny how quickly her mood had changed. She was just fuming at him not even a minute ago, and now she stood there in purse amusement. As he began to talk, she simply regarded him with those green eyes and a tilt of her head; the smile on her face increasing even more. She couldn't be sure, but...was that nervousness? Did she catch him off guard? "Uh huh..." she murmured, just to let him know that she had been listening. Something about being sorry, again, and a guard. Sure, sure. Yes, she was about to laugh at him, especially when he appeared annoyed again. So she teased a little more, insinuating, "Oh, I'm very good." Now she had to press her lips together to keep herself from laughing while she folded her arms again, emphasizing those lovely breasts just a little more.
[ORIN] It was interesting how her mood had changed so quickly. The woman had almost, could have been killed. Orin had saved her life. Again. And she was teasing him? It was all a big joke to her, was it? At her teasing tone, he finally cracked the slightest of a smile and shook his head. "You're ridiculous." He held a hand up, as if to shield his eye from seeing those breasts again, or the way she pressed her lips together like that, and he turned his head away. "Goodnight, Cassandra."
[CASSANDRA] Ever since her capture and her time in those caves, Cassandra was quick to realize that, yes, she could have died. And her life wouldn't have been much of anything to write about. She had barely even lived. Now, when something charmed her or amused her, even when she had been frightened mere moments before, she just let it. Hopefully it didn't make her careless. She finally did laugh, though, when he called her ridiculous, turning to bid her a good night. "Goodnight, Orin," she answered, her tone softening; only following him towards the door so that she could slowly close it after him. Smirking, she let her eyes watch him walk out of her sight before retreating back into her room.
