{|AC:R|} Game of Life {|1-on-1 rp|}

As she started them off Aceline had to remind herself not to push her bangs out of the way of her eyes. Her hair was acting as a safeguard of sorts to better hide her eye color. The last thing she needed was to be treated like a leper or chased down by some angry mob.

Aceline blinked, tearing her gaze away from the nearby buildings to meet Vali’s gaze. Even right next to him his eyes were shaded well with that hood of his. That was a little bit of a shame, she was kind of curious as to what color his eyes were. Nonetheless she shook the thought away. Now wasn’t the time for those things.

There was a moment where she was unsure of how to answer before she shrugged. “I guess not,” she said carefully, though which question she was answer wasn’t mentioned. In a way she might have been replying to both with that one.

She’d matched the tone of voice he’d set, a quieter one perhaps to better get lost in all the chatter around them. The sound of his voice when he spoke like that was something she liked. Would she be hearing it often? Aceline couldn’t imagine that she would be though she wished she would. Even if he was going to stick around in her life here for long who was to say he would ever have many reasons to speak quietly like that anyways?

Shaking the thought away she turned back to the surroundings. There wasn’t much point in getting out and about if she ignored the sights. Though it was all familiar through a TV screen Aceline could reach out and touch things, could see them with her own eyes and smell everything no matter how bad the scent actually was.

He must have been working to reassure her further because he was quick to mention that her stay in the church would not be long. She nodded at that though it wasn’t the most worrisome thing on her mind.

“It’s the people that have me concerned,” she muttered.

----[x]----

It was quiet for a moment as Ophelia took to mulling over what was said. At least that was what Cyril assumed she was doing. For all he knew she might have had other things on her mind and he wouldn’t be any the wiser unless she spoke up about such thoughts. He was proven correct when she asked him about himself.

Cyril didn’t answer right away. Of course he could fight but then he was also a Templar, sometimes it was necessary to combat the assassins. Then again not everyone on their side was a combatant either.

“Deacons typically do not,” he told her finally. It still did not say anything of what he might be able to do though.

He steered them around into a quieter, less crowded hallway before they reached the church foyer. With all those people there was little need to parade Ophelia about and risk someone seeing her eyes. The other deacons would not forbid her from being her, they could not, and for that it made it ideal that she stay here until a better arrangement could be made. Really, it would be down to who was the most able to watch and keep them safe.

Only when they passed another deacon, one who nodded and greeted Ophelia as he passed them, did Cyril speak up again. “I am afraid there’s little to do here in the church.”

It was true enough though Ophelia didn’t seem to mind, yet. If she grew bored there would be little that Cyril could do about it especially when he would need to get back to such tedious chores as tending to the church yet again. With the others here it would be quicker but even then…

Aceline kept her bangs over her eyes carefully. With her head down a little, it was easier to avoid anothers gaze. That was for the best now. The last thing they needed was a fight on their hands.

He spared a cautionary glance around but when she spoke, he looked at her again. Meeting her gaze once, he became very aware of those red eyes. They would take some time to get used to, he was sure.

Vali nodded in response to her words. They were simple and quiet ones. Aceline's discomforts were clearly shown in the church. If he could help it for a time, they would avoid it. It was the safest place for them, however.

Her gaze wandered about carefully though she said nothing more. She worried about this ripple in time but Vali was not sure of it. What could change so drastically if she spoke or moved an object or walked about? He could only assume in the end.

Her words rang out again, soft as they were. Vali motioned to her then, "As they should be," he replied, "I am not sure of how these things are treated in your time but most will deem you a gypsy or witch and see you killed."

It was a sad thing, how people clung to their paranoia. He found himself relieved again that he had found the girls in time. Anyone else who had first would have no doubt done harm without a second thought.

"You are both safe now," he carried on, letting his hand fall back to his side, "we will do what we can to keep it that way."

----[x]----

Cyril didn't answer her right away so instead, she kept glancing around them. Occasionally, her pace would slow to study the details of something before she moved on with him. As long as she wasn't in anyone's way, she figured no one would mind this.

Eventually, he did answer, drawing her attention briefly. His answer was a vague one. He answered about Deacons but not himself. Ophelia did know better but she didn't mention it. Instead, she bobbed her head in understanding.

He steered her into a quieter hallway, no doubt to avoid the glances of the others. Ophelia could only imagine what some might do in this time. If they had been anywhere but the church now, the results could have been very different.

When he spoke, Ophelia shook her head, "No, that's okay," she answered, offering a small smile, "most churches back home were very small and not so busy. So many broke off and started their own churches that they didn't really have the money to make places like this."

In recent years she might not have been so heavily religious but she still appreciated this place. It was strange comparing her own time with this one, seeing so many mill around a church and seem to genuinely mean it. In a way, Ophelia liked to observe them.

"It's interesting," she mentioned after, sparing a glance toward a pair nearby. Her gaze did not linger long, in fear of them noticing her eyes, "see the differences here compared to my home."

It was difficult to keep from meeting other people's gazes, having been taught that it was the proper thing to do and that it conveyed confidence. Now it was a bad idea and though she knew that she had to keep her red eyes hidden the habit was hard to break without practice on the matter. It didn't help that those who were curious and closer tried to get a good glance at her glasses.

Vali had met her gaze when they spoke though it was hard to figure out what was on his mind. From the way his jaw was set something could have been bothering him but then it might have been the fact that he had to keep an eye out for any number of things now. Either valuable or indisposable, Aceline and Ophelia didn't seem to be able to be slotted somewhere in the middle. Aceline never would have figured she'd have missed being left in the background.

She frowned at Vali's words. Cautiousness was clearly commendable in this situation though being reminded of it time and again in such a short period of time was wearing thin. Aceline had to remind herself that it was necessary. Still the mentions of gypsies and witches didn't settle well with her.

Aceline scoffed, shaking her head. "Witchcraft doesn't exist," she said simply, sounding exasperated.

It was, undoubtedly, the most she'd said concerning what she knew about her own time and this one though it was an important one nonetheless. If that's what they thought Ophelia and herself had then they'd be sorely mistaken.

Whatever he thought about the situation or what she'd said was left unsaid for the time being. Instead Vali promised safety yet again for as long as they able to provide. Aceline glanced up at him, over the tops of her glasses. He sounded sincere and Aceline had to wonder just how far Vali would go to support the Templar cause. He'd turned against the Assassins for a rather personal reason after all but how safe would the Templars keep her and Ophelia if they felt they'd ever outlive any usefulness to their cause?

"Is that meant to be a reassurance from your higher ups or a promise from you?" Aceline prodded carefully.

----[x]----

Cyril's pace slowed and quickened in response to Ophelia's. She was content on nearly stopping several times to observe mundane things about the church. It was enough to cause his eyebrow to raise in silent question. Even when she asked about what he did in terms of self defense the topic was short-lived and she'd let the topic go as quickly as she'd brought it up.

When he asked her to forgive the fact that there was little in the church she bafflingly told him that it was fine and much more than any church in her time had. Cyril found it lucky that she didn't say this out loud when others were around. Though she was paying attention to many of her surroundings she didn't show much thought to those that passed them by.

"I see," he murmured thoughtfully all the same.

Had churches downgraded that much to a point where it was not a central focus of many's lives? In a way Cyril felt justified with that thought so jaded and bitter by his own services as deacon over the years. It had done him little good and he'd seen and heard so many heinous things that man was capable of doing. They needed to be shepherded at this rate though their religion did little to guide many from the horrible things many found themselves up to.

"I am sure that it is," Cyril assured, nodding towards her, "though in time these things will grow normal to you."

Even if she were to be relocated churches would still be safe places if she and her friend had to be moved again. At least one of them was comfortable in the church. If it kept her happy just observing this place then Cyril couldn't complain much, it kept her out of trouble and away from the crowds. He could only hope that Vali and his charge would be so lucky as not to run into any trouble.

Aceline was at least cautious about who she looked at and where she kept her gaze. He took solace in her actions and knew that if she kept things up like this, they would be fine. She simply needed to cooperate a little more.

He was quiet as they continued on, merely sparing a cautionary glance around every once in a while. No one seemed to notice her eyes and so, Vali felt there was no cause for alarm.

Her words were short ones, true as they were. Witchcraft and the like did not exist. If they witnessed the extent of any power expelled from the Eden Piece or the children of misfortune, they would no doubt believe it to be simple witchcraft and condemn them.

"As true as that may be, these people put stock into their myths and petty fears."

They fell silent again though Vali didn't mind it. There was plenty of noise around them and that left plenty to fill the quiet. As long as no one made a move to cause trouble, Vali was fine.

He spared a glance her way again, studying her expression. He wasn't surprised by them. The amount of distrust she already expressed was enough. He shook his head at that.

"That is a promise from me," he replied after a moment. "And if you do not believe me, well, I suppose I will have to prove it to you in time."

----[x]----

Ophelia glanced up at him, watching his features for a few short moments. He seemed lost in thought and she didn't interrupt. The mention of churches basically downgrading might have been something of a relief to him.

"People aren't so kind," she carried on quietly. "So I stopped going to church a long time ago. I still remember the church folk who verbally abused my mother."

That had been when she was rather young but it was still burned in her brain. How her mother had cried after the two men had yelled at her. Ophelia couldn't remember going to much church after that.

It was a thought she had to shake away. She tried not to lump everyone together but her lack of faith in people had dwindled. It was a sad thing for her to have to accept in the long run.

She stopped, admiring the stain glass windows. The sun shining through was quick a lovely sight. Ophelia had always liked the look of stained glass though finding any where she lived was difficult.

"Given time, I'm sure," she agreed. "Though, I hope there will be much to learn."

Though she couldn't begin to discern what Vali thought about her answers he didn't leave her much room to guess either. For the most part he was showing himself to be a rather upfront man. Though she didn't say anything about it this was something that she could appreciate.

The silence between them had come back afterwards, however the sounds and conversations the crowds around them more than made up for this. Aceline was still finding it difficult not to push her bangs out of her face, a habit she'd long since indulged in. She wondered how long it would be before she screwed it up, it wasn't like red eyes would be easy to hide from up close.

It remained this way for some time before Vali had spoken up again, reassuring her of Ophelia's safety. He didn't waver when she questioned him about that, wondering on whose orders they were really from. It only took him a moment to meet her gaze and answer her.

"Well, I suppose I'll be pleasantly surprised if it comes to that," she told him.

She knew that family was a very important factor in the sides Vali had chosen to align himself with but she was just some stranger to him. It wasn't even like she had any sort of information on the Ottoman Empire's fall that would make him want to keep her around personally, either. They had just met and she was more important to the group as a whole than to any one of these people as far as Aceline knew.

Aceline took a moment to shake the thoughts away. Now wasn't the time to be brooding over those things, she'd have all night for that. Instead Aceline said, "Do you live nearby?" At the very least she could get to know him, especially when that old fancrush was still there and flaring back to life.

----[x]----

Cyril wasn't so surprised by the mention of people who hid behind their faith. Many seemed to think that arriving at church was enough to absolve them of the things they did; he resisted a scoff at that thought. It took more than that to do any such thing and only appearing to a church weekly did little if one did not follow through on the teachings.

"The world is not a kind place all around," Cyril pointed out. If not for laws and religion many would be unruly and the world would dissolve into chaos, he was sure of it. All the same there were many who did not follow such things anyways and they were swiftly cut down when they acted out.

Whatever might be on Ophelia's mind after that wasn't of his concern or business. She was a rather open book anyways and if she felt the need to share Cyril had little doubt that she'd do just that. It was only a matter of time before that happened anyways. Prying might only turn her away and that was the last thing that they needed from a child of misfortune.

Soon enough she agreed that this place and its routines would become familiar to her. Cyril had little reason to doubt this, besides, she might not even remain at the church long enough for that to happen either way. For all he knew the two would be moved in the following few days. There was still no orders on that however and he could only assume.

"It will be a learning experience for everyone involved, I am sure," Cyril noted. The two had a lot to share, if they were both willing, after all.

Pushing their way through the busy streets, Vali's gaze shifting from one place to another on occasion. No one was making a move to harm Aceline and so he relaxed a little. Thankfully, she kept her gaze averted from others.

He couldn't tell what was on her mind. There might have been many things. Unlike her friend, Aceline didn't seem so inclined to share it seemed. He had to wonder where that would put here, where these two might end up later.

Her reply had been simple enough and partly expected. He didn't believe that she would believe him, not at this time. She was still very wary of him and Cyril. It was almost strange seeing her so wary while Ophelia almost seemed to hold some form of excitement.

"Take it as a small sentiment then," he replied. "I doubt simple words will convince you."

Conversations milled around them, melting into one sound. Topics ranged from gossip to worries of what might happen soon in the future. A frown tugged at his lips, shaking his head.

When she did speak, it was a bit of a surprise. He expected her to be silent as she was the night before. Instead, she asked about himself. Vali's gaze returned to her, studying her expression for a brief moment.

"No, not so close by," he answered, "but I am remaining here until word comes about what will happen to you and your friend."

He paused, toying with the weapon at his side. Was she merely trying to keep conversation going or merely curious. It wasn't as if she was expressing this kind of thing the night before.

"Interested in me now, hmm?" he asked in return, perhaps feeling a little curious as well.

----[x]----

Ophelia nodded in agreement after he spoke. She knew more than enough to confirm those words. Throughout history and her own era, people hiding behind their faith more then practice it. She tried to shake those thoughts, waving them away.

"Truth be told," she answered easily.

She averted her gaze away from a small group of younger boys running about the halls. Children were curious and would no doubt spread what they had seen if one saw her eyes. She'd rather avoid that.

"You won't learn anything from Aceline," she replied softly, a frown tugging at her lips. Aceline would remain tight lipped, favoring the side assassin's side for years. That worried Ophelia. If Aceline didn't cooperate, would there be consequences?

Ophelia had to shake it from her head. She'd gotten this far without a panic attack, she wasn't going to have a scene here in this church. What was more, she didn't want to have to try and explain an attack to others who might not understand.

"So...w-what made you want to be a deacon?" she asked instead.

She didn't want to linger on what might happen to either of them. She worried especially for for Aceline and her loyalty to the assassin's. They had to think of something just in case, have some kind of plan to help themselves. Something told Ophelia they might not completely see eye to eye on what was best to be done.

Vali didn't appear to be deterred by her lack of faith in his promise. If nothing else he might be the type to be spurred on by it and prove her wrong though Aceline couldn't begin to say she knew if that was true or not. For all she knew he might even just let whatever happened happen; she really hoped that nothing bad would happen if that was the case.

"For the most part," she agreed. Too many times she'd been promised one thing only to see another happen, it left her a little wary of promises, especially from someone she'd essentially just met.

The people all around them filled the silence though some of the things being said were beyond Aceline's ability to understand. There was the odd foreign language to her and she wondered if any of it was important or just everyday banter. If any of it was Vali hadn't made a move to indicate as such though she supposed it didn't really concern her much either. It wasn't like anyone was out to get her right now.

Eventually her thoughts turned back to Vali, wondering more about him. It wasn't like he'd been a central character when this was all just fictional to Aceline, after all, so there wasn't much to know about him from that. She'd be lying if she said she wasn't curious to know more about him though she wasn't sure where to start. After several minutes of struggling for a question to ask she'd finally asked the first that had come to mind.

Vali's answer came readily, as simple as her question was this didn't surprise Aceline though he didn't expand past that. Instead he chose to ask a question of his own though it wasn't one she'd been expecting if any. There was a pause in which Aceline found she wasn't sure how to answer; true, she was still harboring an old crush from back before this mess but now that he was real how long would that remain? She shook the thought away as soon as it had come.

"Maybe," Aceline finally stated, "what if I am?"

----[x]----

Ophelia didn't seem so inclined on the topic, after a quick agreement on the matter she'd grown silent again. The church wasn't a large one however and Cyril had to wonder how long idle conversation and their little tour would keep her entertained. It wasn't as if he was a man who knew how to keep people busy by simple, mundane things such as this for long; for the most part he was a man who preferred to be on his own, keeping himself busy with work.

The next thing she spoke of surprised him. So far they had spoken little of her friend and that hesitance she seemed to display compared to Ophelia's openness. Whatever kept the girls so at odds with each on this one left him mildly curious though it didn't concern Cyril too much.

He waved a dismissive hand. "She will come around," he said confidently. There was little reason he didn't believe this, especially so when there were so many ways they had to sway her opinion. Even if that was not the case they had more persuasive ways of making one talk though Cyril didn't mention those. There was little need to upset the one he was currently in charge of guarding.

A brief bit of silence fell after that though it didn't last all too long before she again broke it. She seemed fond of conversation and Cyril wouldn't begrudge her that though he raised an eyebrow at her next question, one that delved more into his personal matters and opinions. There was no time wasted before he shook his head, a dismissive gesture more than a frustrated one. Such discussions were not ones that Cyril were inclined to delve into.

"For many reasons, all of them rather inconsequential to why I remain now," he answered. He wouldn't mention that it was partially a lie. He did more help for the Templar cause as deacon then elsewhere and that had always been the case since the beginning. "And what does someone such as yourself find so fascinating about churches like this?"

Aceline looked thoughtful for a long moment. When he did take a moment to look at her, she always looked the same. Tense, thoughtful, and uncertain. Whatever was on her mind, he could only guess.

She at least took his words. In time, she would see that things would change. Her views, whatever ones she might have followed, would eventually change as well. It was merely all in good time.

The questions had come and gone rather quickly again. Aceline seemed content in getting a little information at a time. Vali didn't push her for conversation. Doing so might only make her withdraw more.

She eventually answered his question. Momentarily, he cast his gaze down to her before it flickered across the crowds again. The assassin's, if they had caught wind of the misfortune children, they were still unable to locate them.

"Then ask your questions," he answered, "I will answer to the best of my ability. That is if you really are curious of me."

Who knew. Maybe she was just trying to find a way to get one up on him. Vali wasn't worried about this girl could do. Aceline seemed to know he was a threat as well. He held doubts that she would not attack.

----[x]----

Ophelia toyed with the fabric of her sleeves. It was a strange, itchy kind of fabric but she tried not to be bothered. She would glance around when she could but if someone was nearby, she would cast her gaze downward.

Cyril answered her, leaving her frowning for a moment. He was confident that Aceline would sway to their side. Ophelia wasn't so sure. She was ferociously loyal to the assassin's even when none of this was 'real'.

"Then you're far more optimistic on the issues then I am," she answered simply.

When it came to Aceline, it could be very hard to tell. Ophelia loved her friend and she only wanted the best for her. She wondered where that would lead the both of them at the end of all of this.

Her own question seemed to be brushed off rather easily. It seemed they were personal matters but she should have known that. Of course, she didn't let on that she did however.

She hummed briefly in response before she replied to his own question, "I was always interested in the Greek Orthodox but the nearest church was miles away so I never got to witness anything like this."

There were so many people around, hustling from place to place or just mingling with one another that Aceline was a little surprised that no one had gotten close enough to see her eyes. She hoped that keeping her bangs in the way was helping or that the sunlight was glinting off her glasses enough to shield them as well. Still, it would be inevitable that someone would notice again, that someone would get riled up and angry or scared over nothing.

The topic at hand at least provided a brief distraction from that worry even if it was a little at her expense. She hadn't been expecting or really planning on letting any sort of interest in Vali be known and now that he was picking at her curiosity she worried he might read too much into it. 'Not like it would be incorrect on that assumption,' she reminded herself.

"Well, you seem eager," Aceline pointed out. It almost seemed like he was content with knowing that she was curious though why that was she couldn’t begin to guess at.

She stopped walking then, glancing around at everything. The Golden Horn had to be nearby, at least she thought it was, assuming she recalled things correctly. It wasn't any secret to those that knew her that Aceline was bad at directions and had to follow familiar landmarks instead, this was no different but it was jarring now that everything was real and not just seen through a TV screen with a helpful little HUD to steer her in the right direction. She rather wanted to see the Golden Horn again even if the waters would be a murky brown...

“Maybe if you lead me to the river again you'll have your questions," she said finally, having come to a halt and waited for Vali to take the lead. That was if he would, he might very well continue to prod her into wandering about more so long as no trouble came of it.

----[x]----

More and more Cyril was noticing the way that Ophelia took to fussing with her new clothes. Perhaps the difference between what she'd worn and these was enough to leave her uncomfortable but if she and her friend had been allowed to run about in what they wore they'd be too obvious. Already their eyes were a giveaway of what they were, so long as those remained hidden they would be fine. That was if they didn't incriminate themselves.

"I have reason to be," he noted when Ophelia took to pointing out his optimism. It wasn't like either woman was going to be let out of the Templar's grasp and sight at this point after all. Her friend would either come around or she'd essentially be miserable, Cyril wasn't so sure the latter option would be appealing to even the most bullheaded individuals after long.

The topic moved on from then, perhaps Ophelia was not fond of the idea of what might happen to her friend if cooperation did not occur. Cyril would worry about it later, particularly if he remained in charge of either of these women. Decisions still had to be made by the higher ups later that day after all.

Eventually she answered his own question, making mention of always being interested in some form of churches despite whatever religious standpoint she might have. Cyril hummed at that, nodding as he did so. It was a thoughtless action, one he took to sometimes when he mulled things over.

"You will grow sick of the sight after long, I am sure," Cyril mentioned, "that is if you are to remain here or not."

Aceline had taken the time to observe around them, cautiously if anything. She would push those odd frames higher onto her nose, ducking her head a times. Vali appreciated that much. The last thing he wanted was trouble.

Her words drew his attention away from the people around him. He hummed slightly in response, casting his gaze onto her for a brief moment.

"You seem curious," he answered, "and I am willing to answer. It seems the least I can do given your situation for the time being."

They wouldn't have word of where these girls would end up, after all. While he had his distaste for that symbol on her arm, he could at least help keep her comfortable. That might give some reason for her judgement on the matter to sway.

He glanced at the Golden Horn when she requested heading in that direction. Vali nodded in agreement, starting toward it. Only when they were close enough did he slow, glancing at her again.

"Please do ask away," he said, waiting on what she had to ask.

Their time would be spent in this manner, one question after another. Aceline showed quite a bit of thoughtfulness. Silently, he enjoyed that fact.

Only when the day was out did he lead her back to the church. She didn't express too much excitement to be back within it but it was the best place they had for the time. Days would pass before they would get any word on what to do with the both of them.

----[x]----

Ophelia kept up with Cyril's stride. His was much taller than she was though, she expected as such. Regardless of that, it was strange to see him beside her after only seeing him on a screen for so long. All of this was rather strange.

Whatever reason he had to be so optimistic about Aceline's views, she couldn't say. Perhaps he had an idea of why Aceline's views may sway. He didn't know how stubborn she could be though.

Eventually, he mentioned her getting tired of the sights. Ophelia could only nod in agreement.

"Well, it may," she replied, "but I'm sure there's a lot more to see to keep me preoccupied."

The mention of both she and Aceline being placed somewhere else unnerved her a little. While she knew it was entirely possible, she worried. She just prayed that they weren't separated.

"Where would we end up if that was the case?" she asked after a moment.

Whatever the answer was, Cyril at least thought it through. He didn't seem to know and couldn't offer reassurance other then their protection. Ophelia could only mull over that as they continued to walk about.

Evening came faster then she realized. Days would pass a little bit slower however. If anything both she and Aceline were able to adjust a little at time, speak a little more openly. Ophelia was able to take solace in that fact alone.

The day had passed rather quickly after that, much too quickly for Aceline's tastes and all too soon she'd found herself back at the church. At the very least Vali had answered any questions she’d had for him and he seemed honest about his answers. The following days seemed to pass much in this manner as well, Ophelia trailing along at Cyril’s side while Aceline was watched over by Vali out in the city proper.

At times Aceline found herself wondering if that was intentional, trying to get them to give away more information. Ophelia noticeably did not mention whatever she might have told Cyril at any point when she and Aceline had the time to hang out after all.

For now both women were left to their own devices again, Cyril and Vali called away for who knew what. Aceline had a feeling she knew what for but chose not to dwell on it. She didn’t want to think about what might happen to either she or Ophelia at this rate. If anything Ophelia would get special treatment considering her cooperation. Aceline was conflicted on that thought, glad that her friend would be all right but frustrated because this was no the side that Aceline identified with...

“They’re taking too long,” she huffed.

It had only been an hour but Aceline felt it shouldn’t have even taken that long. What was the hold up? If she was going to be locked up or something because of her lack of compliance to share information she’d rather know sooner rather than later. Maybe someone was arguing about it but Aceline couldn’t see why anyone would.

----[x]----

Cyril shook his head, glad that that was over with. All they needed to do now was to get back and find the girls. If they‘d been doing what they were told they‘d have remained in the church where it was safe. Even if someone saw their red eyes there they would be unable to take action considering the girls could claim sanctuary within the church walls.

It had been an odd discussion for sure. While Ophelia had the best options available to her considering the information she‘d parted with that her friend so stubbornly refused to give it had been what to do with Aceline that had kept them. Cyril wasn‘t so sure what had led Vali to vouching on Aceline‘s behalf so thoroughly and yet he had, keeping the discussion going on longer than Cyril felt might have been necessary.

All things considered, Cyril would leave it to Vali to explain things to Aceline as they‘d taken to over the last few days anyways. It was simpler that way, especially so since that woman didn‘t seem fond of Cyril anyways. This didn‘t bother him in the slightest.

Their walk back to the church was in silence and Cyril figured Vali might just be wondering about things. Cyril certainly was.

For the most part, the days were quiet. Ophelia and Aceline were often separated, leaving her a little worried. Those thoughts from before often wormed their way into her mind. It had been obvious that this was done on purpose, of course.

Aceline had no doubt noticed this as well. Ophelia didn't mention it to her friend but she did part with information here and there. Ophelia held out hopes that her position could help Aceline's too, if worse came to worse.

Opehlia sat on the bed, occasionally tapping at her bad knee. It had bothered her here and there but nothing major. She was just glad that it and her panic attacks had stayed put.

"Maybe they got caught up with something?" Ophelia replied, tapping her foot a little, "seems like they were on about something urgent anyways."

For the most part, they didn't know much. Ophelia could only assume what Vali and Cyril had to do. She worried if it might have been about where they may end up.

"I'm worried," she finally admitted, "Cyril often brings up about us being placed somewhere else. I'm afraid we might get separated."

Ophelia didn't get to express too much else on her mind. Not a few moments after did someone knock on the door. She glanced at Aceline before she got up and moved to answer it.

----[x]----

The discussions had been long. Vali hadn't intended on it to be as long as it had but he spoke up for Aceline. His intentions were to get her to sway to their side. Vali believed he'd be best to do that.

If anything, that had been convincing enough. He worried a little about what Aceline would do or think. Essentially, they were separating the two now.

It was silent between the two as they walked back to the church. Cyril seemed to have his own thoughts on his mind. Perhaps he was already planning on what to say to Ophelia. She was easier to speak with and the man was a calm one. That match as favorable.

Vali shook the thought from his head. Aceline was stubborn and he couldn't claim he didn't like that about her. In a way, it was a nice change of pace.

As they came to the door the girls resided in, Vali finally knocked. It seemed like they were both up as he heard movement on the other side.

"I hope this goes as easily as I am imagining," he mentioned to Cyril, waiting on the door to open.

Ophelia had been the one to tug the door open, peering out at the both of them. She shuffled nervously, opening the door a little more fuller.

"If we could speak with you," Vali spoke up, "a decision has been made."

Aceline scoffed, not at all surprised by what Cyril had been telling Ophelia. It wasn't a shock that they'd try it and it seemed to be what they were doing day in and day out anyways, leaving them together only when they were both in the church for the night. Even then Cyril spent much of that time nearby unless it was time to get to bed or he was called away for something or other.

"Shocker," Aceline mumbled, a knock on the door interrupting whatever else she might have to say. Her eyes flickered to the door and then to Ophelia. Despite Aceline's griping she wasn't exactly up for hopping up to her feet and go wandering about if that's what was on her agenda again today. Vali seemed to like having her wander about the city, at least part of it.

She didn't have to get up to know it was Vali at the door, his voice alone was enough to place him by after Ophelia had seen to opening the door. It took Ophelia a moment to answer and Aceline could swear that Ophelia had turned to see if Aceline approved or not. Aceline could only offer a shrug in response, it wasn't like she had any idea what was going on.

Both men wandered in almost immediately after, both looking as if there was something important to say. Aceline waited, eyebrow raised as she glanced between the two. Ophelia looked to be nervous as well, playing with her hands during the silence that lingered around the room.

It was Cyril who spoke first, clearing his throat as if to make sure that he had both women's attention. "Arrangements have been made as to where the both of you will be residing from here on out."

Aceline waited, brow beginning to furrow as the silence dragged on again. Why wouldn't they just spit it out already? Her gaze flickered towards Ophelia who looked just as confused as Aceline felt.

"Well?" Aceline prodded.

Cyril again answered, gesturing towards Ophelia as he did so this time, "Ophelia is to remain at the church where she will continue to claim sanctuary and remain safe."

It didn't escape either girl's notice that Aceline had been left out of that bit of information. Again, both girls glanced at each other and Aceline could see the worry on Ophelia's face as clear as day. This had been the exact thing she'd just expressed concern about a minute ago after all and now it seemed to be coming true. Aceline did her best to ignore the way her heart thumped painfully in her chest. She still had yet to get up from the lumpy bed, propped up on her elbow.

"And what about me?" she pushed, her gaze lingering on Vali after Cyril pointedly looked at him.

Ophelia stepped back a little as both men answered. Already, her heart was pounding hard against her chest. She prayed that she wouldn't have an attack now. The last thing she needed was to freak out.

Between them, there felt like a heaviness in the air. For a moment she thought it was just her until Cyril spoke up. Ophelia exchanged a glance with Aceline, wide eyed.

"What will happen to Aceline?" she asked trying to hide the shakiness in her voice. For the first time since they'd come her, she really was frightened.

Cyril had glanced at Vali, waiting on the man to speak. Both she and Aceline waited, if a little impatiently as well.

"Aceline will be coming with me," the man finally said, "she will be kept safe, you need not worry."

Regardless of the reassurance, Ophelia still did. She had an idea as to why they were being separated. It did little to settle her nerves. While this church wasn't so foreign anymore but the people still were. Ophelia would feel defenseless without Aceline.

As if catching the distress on her face, Vali quickly continued, "I will not be keeping her from the church," he explained, "there will be times when she will have to reside here when I am away on business."

Though Aceline kept calm, pushing back whatever assumptions tried to find their way to the forefront of her mind, Ophelia didn't look to be doing all right at this news. Already she was also prodding for more information on where Aceline was going to be going to despite the fact that she already looked alarmed with no information on the matter. Aceline hoped that Ophelia wasn't about to suffer a panic attack, there wasn't any kind of medication for that in this time...

That worry was put on hold momentarily as Vali answered, a simple reply but on that was surprising all the same. Aceline cocked her head to one side, confused, as she stared at Vali as if trying to silently discern why this had been set up that way. Sure it was obvious as to why they were being separated, at least to Aceline it was, but why would she be going with Vali, and to where?

In an attempt to keep that from happening Aceline pushed aside her own worries for the moment. If she started to act freaked out she had no doubt that it would only push Ophelia over the edge. For her friend's sake Aceline would try to act normal.

"You do realize I'm sitting right here?" she pointed out, perhaps a little snappish on the matter, "don't treat me like I'm a child."

"No need for such hostilities, you've been given a rather accommodating situation as is," Cyril scoffed in return.

"Yeah, yeah, bite me," Aceline muttered, "can I at least ask why?"

From the looks of things Vali seemed a little anxious to get moving. Aceline had yet to get up however, she wasn't even sure where Vali was going to take her anyways. She didn't really want to make this easy until they had some answers anyways.

Ophelia glanced back toward Aceline. While she appeared calm, Opehlia could only wonder. What was going through her mind right now? She had to be alarmed in some manner, even if she wasn't acting like it.

Ophelia heard Vali scoff. The man looked impatient and less appreciative of the snappy comment. If anything, Cyril had been the calmer one of the two.

"If I must," Vali replied, "I've merely taken interest in your...stand point with the assassin's. I hope seeing things from another side might...clear your head a bit."

Ophelia shuffled her weight, glancing down at Aceline. She didn't seem to care for the comment by the look on her face. Aceline was rather attached to the Creed, after all.

"And if Aceline decided not to cooperate?" Ophelia dared to ask, sparing a glance between the two. At this point, Ophelia had doubts that Aceline would cause trouble but still she worried.

"Then there are other places Aceline can be placed," Vali answered simply, "though, given that I spent so much time speaking up for her, I'd certainly hope that would not be the case."

Vali at least gave an answer as to the why though Aceline wasn't sure if he was being honest or not. He'd been an assassin once, surely he'd be able to see why someone would find that side more appealing than the Templars. Had he gotten so far into his grudge against them for siding with the Ottomans that he was blinded to what had drawn him to that side in the first place?

"Clear my head," she echoed slowly, disbelief written on her features, "riiiight."

Her gaze flickered to Ophelia again as she asked a new question. Aceline didn't quite like the answer they got in return, in fact it only soured her mood further. It kept sounding to her like she was being treated like some problem child being bumped from foster home to foster home. To say it was trying just to stay calm with that realization in mind was understatement.

Finally, Aceline pushed herself up with a huff, swinging her legs over the side of the bed though she didn't move to stand quiet yet. Though she wanted to argue against this, all of this, there wasn't much point to it. Vali alone would be able to handle her, that much she was aware of and any kind of scuffle would just make Ophelia worse off. The last thing she needed was a panic attack, they'd been lucky that one hadn't set in yet as it was.

"Fine," she said simply, a note of irritation worming its way into her voice. When she opened her eyes she could see the surprise on at least Ophelia's face. No doubt at least she had been expecting an argument. 'Not right now, not when you're already freaking out,' Aceline thought to herself.

"So, she has some sense after all," Cyril mused aloud.

Aceline tossed him a glare for that comment and repeated, "Bite me." Only after she turned to Vali did she say anything else, eventually pushing herself to her feet. "Well, lead the way."

Aceline wasn't happy. Ophelia half expected her to argue or to start swearing. That would have been the reaction she'd normally given when she felt cornered. She could be rebellious and she let others know it.

Instead, she simply sat up after Vali had spoken. Ophelia stood wide eyed for a long moment, wondering what was going through her friends head.

"But...Aceline," she started, not really sure what she could say to stop her.

"She will be fine," Vali reassured once again, "you should worry more of yourself."

Ophelia tried not to flinch at that. She wrung her hands, trying not to let them shake. Even so, she felt them tremble. She felt helpless as she watched the two leave, only leaving her and Cyril in the room.

----[x]----

Vali was pleased that Aceline had at least cooperated. With everything hashed out, they could be on their way. Cyril would take care of the woman's friend and things would be quiet for a time.

"I half expected you to put up a fight," he commented as they walked, "as stubborn as you are."

He cast a glance her way, wondering what was on her mind. Aceline didn't look pleased. In fact, if he had to guess there was some anxiousness there.

"Your friend will be fine," he said, his gaze turning ahead of them, "Cyril will make sure of that."

For the moment, she just needed to worry for her own well being. Unless she was within the church walls, she would be fair game outside. They would have to be careful about her eyes.

"I expect this will take time to get used to," he noted, trying to make some conversation, "if you need anything, ask."

Cyril strode to Ophelia's side, placing a hand on her shoulder carefully. The woman was growing jumpy, antsy even. There was no room to wonder why, it was obvious that being separated from her friend and the lack of a fight that was put up on the matter was jarring to her. Perhaps Ophelia had relied on Aceline more than Cyril might have put stock in.

"It is nothing to grow concerned over, I assure you," Cyril told her, "Vali will not harm your friend."

At the very least Vali seemed to have it in mind that being friendly with the other woman might cause her to help them, Cyril had his doubts about that. Actually, many had those very doubts which was why that meeting had taken so long. Cyril wouldn't mention any of that however.

"Come, surely there is something that will take your mind off of this bit of unpleasantness," he offered.

If nothing else a walk could help clear her head. She seemed to be growing jumpier now that she was aware that her friend would not be in the church with her anymore unless under certain circumstances. Even then Vali had a family to help keep watch over his newest charge while he was away anyways.

----[x]----

Vali didn't speak until they'd left the room again, at least not to Aceline. His pace was quick as well, perhaps wanting to get them to wherever they were going. Then again it wasn't like Aceline was exactly safe outside of the church, however much she didn't like this place. She scoffed quietly at his comment.

"Who says I won't later?" she shot back simply. The thought was still there even if she'd gone quietly for the moment Aceline was still miffed at the way she was essentially being carted around like some errant child.

He was rather talkative now, Aceline figured he was just trying to keep her mind off of things or to calm her down. Still, the opportunity to ask questions was enough...

"All right then, why did you supposedly speak up on my behalf?" she wondered, "and none of that bullshit you spouted back there about 'clearing my head.'"

She glanced up at them as they left the church, the sunlight beating down on them. At the very least it wasn't chilly out but then the morning had long since passed too. That always meant that Aceline would have to be careful with her eyes again. It was beginning to become a trend that she wasn't fond of.

Ophelia wasn't sure what to feel or do with herself now that Aceline had left the church. She relied on her quite a bit. Even just having her presence around, someone familiar, had kept her calm.

Now that she was gone, Ophelia felt anxious. She tried to calm herself down before that anxiousness turned into an attack. She jumped a little when Cyril placed a hand on her shoulder.

She swallowed the lump in her throat, sparing a glance up at him. If anything, he was trying to extend some comfort. The worries would take a long while to quash however.

"S-sure," she muttered in response, "maybe...just a walk..."

Ophelia felt shaky enough. She wasn't sure if she'd be affected worse when night came. At that time, her thoughts got to her most. In some regard, Aceline being there had been a major help.

She didn't believe that Vali would do anything to her. In that regard, she took some relief.

"Why did Vali speak up for her?" she decided to ask, if only to get her mind off of bleak situation for the moment. If anything, that was a little curiosity that she wanted quashed.

----[x]----

Even as they walked he could easily tell that she was upset. While there was no unpleasantness now, he had to wonder if later on down the road Aceline might cause problems. Her reply only confirmed that a little.

"Then I'll be prepared for the later," he replied easily.

Vali wasn't sure what kind of trouble she would make if any at all. He'd rather things not come to that however. If he could keep some amount of peace, things would be fine. He did have his family to worry about as well.

Eventually she spoke up again asking for the real reason behind him speaking out for her. Vali heaved a heavy sigh, shaking his head.

"Would you truly be satisfied if I answered that?" he asked, sparing her a passing glance.

Vali took a few moments to think it over. He couldn't be sure she'd be satisfied with his answer. Really, he did want to show her a better side of things.

"I suppose there is some form of fondness," he finally explained, "something more along the lines of curiosity mostly. I really am curious of why you align yourself so loyally to the assassin's."

If anything, he was blunt. That's what she wanted and that's what he would give.

Ophelia had jumped at his touch, blinking up at him like some trapped animal for a moment. Cyril quickly dropped his hand to his side. There wasn't any need to make her more skittish though she did seem to latch onto the idea of a walk. Perhaps the fresh air would help to clear her head.

"A walk will do," he agreed lightly, gesturing for her to follow him. Cyril wondered if she half-hoped that he might lead her to her friend yet again though it would be a vain one if that was the case.

Before they'd even made it to the main foyer of the church Ophelia spoke up, wondering about that meeting she'd had no part of. Cyril merely shook his head in reply for the time being. Honestly he couldn't begin to decipher what Vali aimed to do with Aceline. When asked about it by others Vali had managed to dodge around the topic rather well.

Finally Cyril said, "Vali was rather elusive about his reasoning. Perhaps they were personal."

While he didn't say it out loud Cyril did wonder if it had to do with using Aceline in some way. It was no secret that Vali harbored a grudge against the assassins since they had sided with the Ottomans upon their takeover here. It would not surprise Cyril if that was the case though he kept that assumption to himself. It would only make Ophelia worry further.

----[x]----

Vali was obviously quite sure that he could handle whatever she might be able to do in retaliation to being separated from her only friend. For the most part Aceline wasn't really sure what she'd do, if anything, other than being moody and obstinate. That wouldn't exactly help improve the situation though and she was well aware of it.

Instead the topic turned to what had been said or rather why he'd said what he might have on her behalf. Aceline was honestly a little surprised at the question she received in return. Glancing up at him, brow furrowed, she wondered what he was aiming for now.

"Maybe, maybe not," she finally said, still wondering where he was going with this.

Even after Aceline did respond it took Vali several long moments to do the same. This only made her grow more curious and a little wary of what he might be up to. She found that she'd even already lost track of where he was leading her as she'd been so focused on observing him in that time. It was hard not to be bothered by that, Vali easily managed to catch her attention whether she wanted him to or not and even when she was so frustrated with the situation he was central to.

Vali's answer caught her off guard, unsure of what to think about that. Fondness out of curiosity, Aceline had to wonder what that even meant. She couldn't be sure that Vali even knew the answer to that.

"You still sound like you're making things up," she argued under her breath. If nothing else this rebuttal wouldn't give away any of her thoughts of feelings on that comment. To be honest it had left Aceline unsure of things even more.

Ophelia could do nothing but trot after Cyril. This was all troubling and it would take a long while to shake. All she could do was reassure herself that Aceline would be fine.

The church was at least somewhat familiar to her. The people always changed but the building did not and that helped a tad. So far no one had caused trouble but she mostly kept to herself unless she was around Cyril as well.

Cyril was quiet for a bit after she had asked her question. She couldn't tell what was on his mind. When he did answer, it didn't bring any light to the issue.

"That's very strange," she commented in return, "I can only wonder what's on his mind."

Was he just fond of Aceline or was it something else? If he was trying to get information out of her, he was in for a ride. She was a stubborn and she would act out subtly if she could help it.

They were thoughts she had to shake. Any more would just worm there way into her head during the night and she would rather avoid that. She didn't have her medication on her here and putting any more stress on herself would only cause her problems.

----[x]----

Aceline seemed to express a little confusion with his question. It was a short one and one he brushed off rather easily. He didn't feel like beating around the bush would help any so indulging her seemed like his best bet.

His answer was still dodging around the issue. For a long moment, she was merely silent about it however. She didn't seem to care for it. A few moments later, she confirmed his thought.

Vali heaved a sigh. "There really is no pleasing you, now is there?" he inquired, glancing down at her.

She was stubborn and part of him liked that. It provided, in some sense or another, a bit of a challenge. Most women he was used to seeing were so quiet. Aceline was a breath of fresh air, albeit a strange one.

"You sound doubtful," he pointed out, "where is that confidence of yours?"

He glanced down at her briefly before his gaze slid about the crowds. If anything, no one was out to make trouble. At least, not at the moment. He was grateful for that.

"I should warn you," he began, "I've family you will meet and they may be wary. You will be very strange to them, after all."

The outside air wasn't as stale as it was inside the church, or at least it wasn't to Cyril. It was hard to imagine what it was like for Ophelia, especially when she was already on the verge of growing panicked. He certainly hoped she would not do anything rash if she was pushed further. The fresh air would surely calm her if they stayed out long enough.

"It is hard to say," Cyril admitted, glad that Ophelia was at least able to hold a rational conversation, "In time it might become clearer."

For the time being that was all that could be said on that matter. Cyril had yet to really calm Ophelia down even when they'd made it out into the church square. The people around them went about their day as normal, blissfully unaware that they were in the presence of a Misfortune's Child. If all went well it would remain that way.

Glancing at Ophelia it was clear she was still lost in thought even as she shook her head, perhaps to draw away from them. Cyril hoped this would not become a recurring situation. She seemed to grow lost in thought often, most particularly when she was left alone he'd noticed. How this would affect her in the coming days would be seen then though Cyril had to wonder.

"It is best not to worry about it for the time being, you are both in capable hands," he assured.

----[x]----

At her mumbled insistence that Vali was still making things up just to appease her in some way he instead shot the topic back to her. She scoffed a little that. No one would have been pleased easily in a situation like this, at least Aceline didn't think so.

"If I was easy to please I wouldn't need to be relocated, now would I?" she shot back simply, "and I'm just as confident as ever."

There was a brief bit of silence between them filled by the chatter of those around them. No one had noticed her eyes yet and Aceline wanted to keep it that way. Though she favored the color red seeing it as her own eye color was creepy and she tended to avoid mirrors now because of it. If Ophelia had noticed she hadn't said anything, she supposed it didn't matter now for the time being though.

She caught Vali glancing down at her and this made her wonder again what he was up to. It was a moment later that he was speaking up about meeting his family. It took a second or two for Aceline to fully realize what was said and when she had she glanced back at Vali, brow furrowing deeply.

"Wait, what? Ophelia cooperates and passes off information—don't give me that look, I'm not oblivious!—and she's stuck in a boring old church and I'm being shipped off to your house?" she reiterated, finding nothing in what little she knew to counter this assessment. Vali's almost nonchalant shrug that was her answer was enough to go on.

The air outside was a little fresher. She still had yet to get used to the warm days and cold nights. Still, it was better then being inside, left to her thoughts.

Even Cyril was at a loss as to what Vali was trying to accomplish. Ophelia wasn't sure what to make of or how to feel about that.

"I hope that's the case," she answered, "I just hope she doesn't do anything reckless..."

Something told Ophelia that Aceline would stay put for a time. She knew very well that Ophelia worried. Part of her wondered if that's why Aceline had gone off without much argument or a fight.

She spared a small smile up at him for his words. She knew they were in safe hands. Honestly, that would have been the case on either side but she didn't mention it.

"I'm a little more worried about my panic attacks then anything else," she explained, "I used to have medication for them but I don't have that anymore."

----[x]----

Her mood only seemed to sour a little more as they went on. Vali could only do and say so much really. She was stuck in a situation she might not care for but she would have to live with it for now.

"Truth be told," he agreed slightly, "there is no way around it. Unless you'd prefer to be locked in some room as another had been suggesting."

There weren't many who were sticking their neck out for. Some had believed and agreed that simply locking Aceline away would take care of the issue, eventually break her. Vali saw no progress in that, not when he wanted to sway her views.

It was easy to notice her brow puckering after he had mentioned his family. The silence worn on for another few beats before she started to speak.

Vali opened his mouth to reply before she cut him off and continued. He let her finish before he cleared his throat.

"Your friend has been less of an issue, yes," he confirmed, "and still seems rather fond of the church. She is also a passive one. The church would be the safest place for someone like her. You however, I felt it may be best if you were to stick with me, where I can keep an eye on things."

Vali didn't mention it but Aceline didn't seem happy with the church either. If anything, she might be a little more content out and about, even if it was risky.

Cyril again shook his head. This seemed like a repeat of a similar conversation they'd had days ago actually. He did not point that out however, now wasn't a time to. Instead they had to get her to a calmer state of mind and walking around the church square seemed to be helping a little.

"Vali has a way to keep people inline or so I've heard," Cyril noted calmly.

He held up a hand as Ophelia looked worried at that, a silent reassurance that arguing was not needed right now. They had their orders to keep the women safe and that meant even from themselves. Unless that friend of Ophelia's did anything really nasty she would be fine, perhaps she'd continue being surly but otherwise unharmed.

Eventually Ophelia did speak up again mentioning something about panic attacks. Cyril raised an eyebrow at that, glancing at her. She seemed serious though also resigned to the idea of these things coming.

"I do believe this is the first I've heard of this," he pointed out carefully. He would have liked to have known about this and what to look out for concerning Ophelia's health.

----[x]----

Aceline wasn't sure what to make of everything now. One minute she'd been wondering where Vali was taking her and the next he'd revealed it was to his home. It was enough to catch anyone off guard having expected more along the lines of what this other person he'd mentioned had suggested. She wasn't sure what to prepare for with that, it wasn't like they'd ever been seen or talked about while this was all a game to Aceline. Was it a large family or a small one? She wasn't sure which she'd rather prefer and she supposed it didn't really matter either way.

Instead of addressing any of that or asking how much further it was until they reached wherever he lived Aceline instead huffed. "There it is again," she grumbled trying to ignore how she and Ophelia had more or less been pegged at this point.

Glancing at Vali she could see the confusion there however shaded his face was from view. This close at his side it was easier to make out his facial features. She shook her head and debated answering the unasked question or not for a moment. Eventually she did relent, if she didn't point it out it might not change after all.

"I'm not a troublesome kid that needs babysat, you know? Maybe I'd be more willing to cooperate if I wasn't treated that way," Aceline explained curtly, "Maybe."

She wouldn't promise anything, she never did anymore but she'd at least be a little less rude if they'd stop treating her like a child. That much Aceline could do in return for the time being. She still couldn't stomach the thought of helping the Templars after all.

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