Two Eyes Cenote [m] Adder

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I don't know when you think I made any remark about your appearance, Eset, or why you think I do not care for the people here. Machi watched the woman with a mixture of confusion and impatience, his brow furrowing slightly.

Although, if I had anything to say about your most prickly visage, it would be to wash before the whole chamber reeks of vomit, he muttered half beneath his breath, as he reached for another bulb. His paw brushed over it, only to hesitate, counting the dwindling number of flowers left. With a sigh, he rose to a different section of the room, and carefully gathered a handful of small, sweet-smelling white buds, their once bright yellow centers now dulled by time.

Every word he spoke, even those intended to soothe instead of provoke—although some most certainly were meant to provoke, seemed to stoke the fire of Eset’s anger. Machi could sense the continuously rising tension between them, and with no wine or food to present as a peace offering, he settled on the only gesture he could think of. Quietly, he placed the small pile of blossoms between them, saying nothing of it, but making sure it was within her reach. He retook his place on the wall afterward, clear-pink nails absently combing through his matted fur as he chewed on one of the flowers. His eyes remained fixed on the far wall as though looking directly at her might incinerate him under the heat of her gaze, yet, the mud-colored ear remained turned toward her, a silent acknowledgment that he was still listening, despite the distance he kept.

No, I do not wish to divulge the atrocities that occurred in Godsmouth, he finally replied, voice guarded. Would you truly feel at ease telling me every sordid detail of what transpired in your sire's garden? Not just a vague recounting, but every moment that led you to this palace? The man asked, his voice soft, reaching for the understanding the Hebsut claimed to be seeking. I cannot imagine your story is any more pleasant than mine.

And with that, he began his tale.