Take Two

Azure spent the majority of the after-party glued to his fiancé speaking very little and for the most part, simply people-watching. Hana's hushed comment had clearly been heard by at least one other, and that in itself was enough to tip the Champion on edge. How many potential enemies surrounded him now? He could not rule out even his own brother, knowing that throughout their youth he had always been firmly plastered in Aslatiels corner. Surely a dozen like-minded wolves who adored Artorias, Briar, and their castle-dwelling pack were currently enjoying the reception, and Azure doubted any of them had any allegiance to himself, Hanako, or the Armada as a whole. The situation felt like a tinderbox, ready to alight at the first spark - and Azure knew that unfortunately, should any step to him or his, he might be at risk of lighting it himself.

His sister's comment especially had his fur on end, having known her long enough at least to know that her words carried a real threat. Artorias' castle may have been well protected, but Azure did not have the ability to blindly trust in the Aegis' ability to intercept an attack, especially when it came from a wolf whom he himself did trust. If Asla chose to retaliate for the perceived slight, Azure knew her approach would be subtle and swift. No guard would be able to cross the distance fast enough to defend the dainty koi-wolf, and once her blood was spilled, it mattered little to Az how unrelenting the Hallows responding judgment might be.

It took what felt like hours for Azure to find the ability to hand Hanako off, murmuring to his mother to please keep a close eye upon her in his absence. Zee led the koi-wolf away to explore the castle's main level, and Azure split off in search of their hosts. It was Artorias he found first, spying Briar across the room in a separate conversation. He paused in his stride, hesitation in his gaze as he looked back and forth between newlyweds. His intention had been to bring Briar into the discussion as well - she knew Hana, as well as himself - though the prideful part of him still loathed to express any form of defeat to the members of his own family. An apology was hard enough, an apology to his little sister? Perhaps bringing his explanation and diplomacy to her new husband might be an easier pill to swallow. "Artorias, if I could pull you from your celebration for a moment?"

"Speech"