Anyone with a rational mind would've walked the other way once they took a look at the menacing structure that was Stygia's royal palace, where some of the strongest immortals called their workplace.
The atmosphere around it had only grown more intimidating ever since Lex had taken control, mainly thanks to his decision to place a literal portal for his shadowy subjects to travel back and forth the real world whenever they wished.
Kaari on the other hand, happily waltzed in without much thought, excited to discuss her plans with Lex.
The Roseabelle had unexpectedly turned into a rather pleasant acquaintance over the years despite the initial bad first impressions.
She had grown used to visiting Stygia as often as she did however, since the relationship between the humans and Roseabelles were still strained, she always had to come up with a valid reason to visit in order to remain likeable among her council.
'I hope no one saw me leave with Nox.' She thought, as let her muscle memory guide her towards his personal study. 'The rumors will certainly get out of control, and I will only cause Lex more harm than good. If anything, I should be more of use to him, especially after how he's helped me with my duties throughout all these years.'
She knocked on the door of the study and after receiving no reply, she quietly made her way into the room and began her wait.
"His Majesty will be on his way shortly, Princess." Nox reassured as it took its place beside Kaari. "He is currently in a meeting with the rest of the High Roses about the upcoming spring festivals."
"He must be incredibly busy." Kaari stated empathetically, hoping to start a conversation in order to pass the time.
"It is his first time back in months since he was preoccupied with some urgent matters in the shadow realm. Thankfully, it appears to be resolved now."
"His work ethic is commendable." Kaari said with a smile of admiration. "He would complain about his duties whenever I ask if he's well, but his actions are earnest and sincere."
As the two conversed, the shadows that had curiously followed the visitor began to flood into the room, hoping to get closer to the human guest.
Kaari was again, unsurprised by this, since it occurs almost every single time she visits.
It was odd, but Kaari couldn't help but think that the shadows were behaving this simply because they enjoyed her presence.
After all, they would only ever leave her side when Lex decided that he has seen enough and banish them from getting too close to her.
'They're exactly like the shadow realm's version of felines.' She thought as she lifted a small shadow looming over her feet onto her lap. 'It's so hard to imagine them as vicious creatures now that I've seen them behave like this.'
Kaari was far too preoccupied with the creatures' presence to notice a heavy pair of footsteps getting closer to the room, before ultimately stopping right at the entrance.
"I leave for a brief moment and all of a sudden, you creatures forget the rules I've established inside this palace."
Just a single sentence from the brooding emperor was enough to give all the shadows a fright, clearly aware that they've upset their ruler with their antics yet again.
"... I'll deal with you later. Don't think that having a guest over will save your asses from my wrath so you better scram, all of you."
Without a second to spare, the creatures scrambled to the door, scattering all across the palace to hide.
The last shadow to head out was none other than Nox, who cleverly locked the doors behind them, giving the two royalties, primarily Lex, some much needed privacy.
"Excuse their behavior." Lex said with a tired sigh, rubbing his temples before releasing a heavy sigh. "Those simple-minded fools are still quite unfamiliar with humans, especially you."
"No, no, it should be me that should apologize." Kaari insisted, feeling guilty for enjoying their company too much. "I know you told me not to interact with them, but they were being far too adorable. I couldn't help but give in."
"I hope you wouldn't be too harsh on them, Lex. After all, anger never looks good on anyone, not even immortals like you."
'There she goes again.' Lex thought, secretly pleased by Kaari's decision to address him causally. 'She only drops the honorifics when I'm upset.'
"Whatever, it's not like your persuasion will change my mind." Lex swiftly changed the subject, aware that hearing any more of her pleading might genuinely lead him to reconsider. "Now tell me. What is it that you need my help with?"
=================
"... So, you made such a huge fuss about needing my help this entire time... and it was to ask if I could teach you Iyuin?" Lex asked with a surprised expression, something that Kaari had never witnessed before.
"It's been an issue ever since I started took over Varen's duties." Kaari explained with a sad expression, seemingly disappointed in herself. "I've had several tutors help me with it, but I've learned nothing at all. I still can't read a single sentence without relying on the dictionary."
"... I hope you will not take offense to what I am to say, but what makes you think I could be any different if multiple experienced scholars failed to help you?" Lex questioned, unable to wrap his head around the entire situation.
"Besides, what purpose do you even have to learn such an ancient language? We already did you the favor of learning your language, am I wrong?"
"Well, I wouldn't say I have a legitimate reason ..." She said with an innocent smile. "I just thought it would be a nice gesture to at least learn it and make some small talk with them whenever I can."
"... And why would you need to speak to other immortals?" His voice lowered an octave when he asked the question, leaving Kaari feeling uneasy. "Is having just my attention not enough for you anymore?"
"You know that's not what I meant." She denied strongly, feeling the heat of embarrassment creep up to her cheeks. "Your words truly confuse me sometimes, Your Majesty."
"It's just that all the documents exchanged between Exousia and other nations are still written in Iyuin." She tried to explain herself while she rummaged through the small pockets of her coat. "Look, this was a letter I received from the headmaster of the Academy."
She opened the letter to show Lex what she had meant but Lex stopped her, his grip gentle yet firm.
"Unauthorized exchanges of private documents is considered treason in all three nations, princess." Lex warned softly, placing the letter back into her coat.
He poked Kaari's nose as a tease, unable to keep his hands to himself. 'Cute.'
"You're lucky I actually like you, Kaari... otherwise, this would've been the perfect plot to get you dethroned."
Lex couldn't help but peer at her intriguing beauty with a blank expression, the silence slowly growing with each second.
Judging from the blue night gown she wore underneath her coat, it was obvious that Kaari was just about to head to bed before she was forced to come over here due to Lex's orders.
'The material is far too thin.' He thought, displeased by the sight of what she had adorned. 'These humans are always boasting about being the most powerful creatures after us immortals, yet their craftsmanship is horrendous.'
He found himself staring at her longer than he had intended to, though it was obvious that Kaari was unaware of this.
' Perhaps it's wiser to summon her during the day instead, when its much warmer for humans. I wouldn't be able to see her whenever I please if she were to get sick.'
"I know this can be a burdensome favor to accept, but I really hope you consider it. I'm afraid you're my only hope at the moment. After all, you're the only immortal that's nice enough to tolerate my requests."
"That, I am." He agreed strongly, pleased to have his efforts finally be acknowledged. "Not even the Kaxarenes would stoop this low to help a lowly human, and yet here I am."
He paused momentarily, appearing lost in thought while Kaari gazed at him with her distinctive gaze, something Lex found almost impossible to disregard.
"... I suppose I can still afford to be nice but, under one condition." He finally spoke up, a sly smirk slowly creeping up onto his face.
"So, tell me, princess. Are you up to strike a deal with the devil?"