Lion Head Mesa Medusoid Ostreatus

The suspicious opal eyes remained fixed upon the younger woman, but as she settled beside him in a manner so unlike her husband it was nearly comical, there was a shift within the man. Machi released a sigh, closing his eyes for a moment as if thinking.

Divine one, if you bid me speak plainly, then allow me to do so now. And when his eyes reopened, they fixed upon her much more gently. Before I was taken in by Eset and Muat-Riya, I lived a very different sort of life—one that I have carried with me throughout my time here. He paused, considering his next words.

It is perhaps because of this that I have not been able to find myself fully a part of your empire, and also perhaps why I still carry the arrogance of leadership that is no longer fitting of my rank, Machi continued, voice low, although not disrespectful, as he pawed absently at the pile before him. And although I find myself, though I ask you to forgive me for saying so, perhaps more impressed with titles due to saftey than adoration, it is undeniable that you are beloved by your people, Eset especially—and there is much respect earned in that. However, there have been events in the past months that have left me unsettled, Highness.

His opal eyes fixed upon her once more, cool but not harsh. If I may be so bold, do you believe it was it a mistake for her to trust you? The unspoken question: and can I trust you now?