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

Ophelia had to tilt her head up to look at him. It wasn't often that she felt short, being more or less of average in height in her time. There were very few men that had come into her work place so tall as well. She tried not to put too much stock in it or like it. She always had a soft spot for taller, lanky people.

When he spoke up, she found herself feeling a little better. She knew the situation was serious and by saying what she did, she had meddled in a way. What was she supposed to do however? They were already here, already meddling simply by existing in this time.

“At least I’m not completely in the wrong,” she replied though her tone still had lightness in it.

She loved and cared for Aceline but sometimes, they just didn’t see eye to eye. Ophelia understood her point earlier but the way she saw it, they didn’t have many options. It was something she tried to shake for the time, focusing instead on Cyril when he answered her question.

Confusion welled up in her. She didn’t know a whole lot about the series, at least the main story, but she had never heard of ‘misfortune children’ before. As far as she knew, that wasn’t something in the series at all, when it was just that.

“They…all had red eyes?” she inquired further, the confusion apparent in her tone. She wasn’t sure what to think about this, after all. “Are there other things I should be worried about with this ‘misfortune child’ thing?”

She was at a loss, really. If Aceline would listen later, this would be information that Ophelia could at least share. An explanation for their eyes might provide a little bit of comfort, in the end.

----[x]----

Whatever she thought about the apology, as brief as it was, he pushed it aside. Her reply had been quick and awkward. Vali knew she wasn’t relaxing though there was no reason to, he figured. In her situation, it must have felt strange.

He leaned back in the chair, wondering if the offer to walk should be brought up again. Maybe turning in for the night was best as well. He couldn’t say for sure. Vali didn’t know Aceline’s habits much less her friends. Cyril was taking care of Ophelia for the moment and that gave Vali one less worry.

He spared a glance at the door before shaking his head. The night seemed longer than what it should have been. Honestly, he had held out hope that there would be no bumps along the way. Regardless, this had happened and they were halted in their attempts to continue questioning.

Glancing at her again, she had finally spoken up about what he had asked. Vali felt a sense of relief wash over him. It wasn’t entirely what he was looking for-he would have liked to hear details, but it was better than nothing. The fact that the Ottomans may fall was a great weight off his shoulders.

“As long as they meet their end,” he answered after a brief moment. “That is all I am looking for.”

Vali watched her expression. Once more, she appeared torn about what she was doing and what she had said. He hummed shortly at that, a little uncertain about how to go about this.

“Do not worry, I do not plan on using this information for ill intent,” he explained carefully. “I must protect those I care about and while I will take any means necessary, I do not intend to act recklessly or risk this future you come from.”

Vali couldn’t be sure that reassured her at all. Eventually, she might come to understand his point of view, however. With a little push in the right direction, they might sway their views easily.

Relief had washed over her face at his words. It seemed that she was one who was easy to read, that would be handy later. Her friend seemed to be more withdrawn, hiding what she thought away. Such things could be problematic for them all.

He shook the thoughts away, gesturing to Ophelia. “No need for such worries, we are not villains,” he deflected simply.

Of course if one asked the assassins they would say otherwise, Cyril was sure. He scoffed at the idea though wouldn’t mention it. Anything like that could be learned in time. There was no need to fill her head with worries about them.

Topic had turned to talk of children of misfortune then and while he answered to the best of his ability it was clearly not enough for Ophelia. He held out his hands as she questioned him, perhaps to show that he had no real answers either. What they did know came from secondhand knowledge, passed down from generations passed.

“What documents we have tell of all children having red eyes,” he said simply.

This didn’t seem to help Ophelia much. She still seemed worried over this but then why shouldn’t she be? The city would be up in arms if no one kept these two in sight at all times, Cyril was sure of it. Even then they would have a hard time. With the Templars they could make things easier and hopefully this would help things along.

Their steps had slowed though this didn’t bother Cyril. If this helped Ophelia in some way feel more comfortable then who was he to stop it? Their goal was to get them to cooperate, to become allies, after all. Rushing her and demanding things of her wouldn’t do much good in the long run.

----[x]----

That silence was back, stifling in a way. Occasionally she’d spare a glance at Vali though if he noticed he didn’t mention or react. Aceline wasn’t sure what to do with herself or what to say. On the one hand she wanted to get to know Vali, as a person and not as some character but on the other wouldn’t that be meddling?

Her thoughts had been put on hold for a short time as she answered Vali’s question. He seemed to take the reply well, nodding and mulling over it. There was relief there, a noticeable drop in his shoulders even as he sat back. Aceline shifted in her seat at that. The Ottoman falling might not be for decades or centuries, what might happen if he grew impatient and asked again later?

It must have been obvious how hesitant and unnerved she was by her thoughts as Vali was quick to reassure her. It did little to help though Aceline would have been lying if she said the gesture wasn’t appreciated.

“That’s… That’s not what I’m worried about,” she paused then, a shake of her head following. A moment after she would speak up, still struggling with how best to explain things. “Not entirely, anyway.”

Aceline had to pause, unsure if saying these things would be the right thing to do or not. If she said anything more about the future things might change, people here might try to push the dates or do things when they shouldn’t have and a ripple effect would ensue. But the alternative was that she and Ophelia were supposed to be here, that their appearance was scripted for whatever reason and things would go about as planned anyways. Or maybe something had gone wrong altogether…

The variables left Aceline confused, unsure of what to do or say. In that way Ophelia must have looked to be the more confident and decisive of the two given the situation. A strange thought that, however fleeting it was.

Glancing at Vali it was clear he was still waiting for an explanation. Carefully she started again, “there’s a lot of theories, just one thing can set off something larger down the road when it involves time. It could be something we say or do or just by being here. It could be anything as simple as moving something from where it was supposed to be.”

If the implications got through she’d have to wait and see. Vali seemed to be mulling this over. It was, honestly, the most Aceline had said so far as well.

Ophelia spared a simple nod in response to Cyril's words. Honestly, she knew they weren't though she wouldn't mention that out loud. Ophelia had always tried to see things from both sides and remained heavily undecided between the two sides.

"No, I don't suspect that you are," she replied after a long moment.

Ophelia placed her hands behind her back, if only to give them something to do. She mulled it over quietly. It was odd, knowing what she did and yet having to play off like she knew nothing at all. In a way, she was blind to everything that could happen now.

He motioned to her, unable to really explain anything more about the misfortune children. She hummed shortly in response to his words.

"I suppose I'll find out more at some point or another," she replied, sparing a glance his way. "I wish I knew why this happened to us."

There had been no answer to that question and perhaps there never would be. Ophelia quashed that thought of a time. Getting too wrapped up in it would only cause further worries and she didn't want to provoke a panic attack at this point.

Her gaze wandered back to him. It was difficult to keep herself from doing so. Whether that was because he had been a character in a game or her simple curiosity, she wasn't sure.

"What is it you do here, Cyril? Are you a priest?"

If anything, that would get the conversation moving in another direction and take her mind off things. Until her knee started bothering her again, she'd wander with him for a while longer.

----[x]----

She'd been quiet for several long minutes though this seemed to be the norm at the moment. It wasn't as if he was bothered by it, far from it in fact. She was guarded and wasn't giving much away. She had mentioned something of meddling with time and perhaps that's what left her silent.

Vali had to mull over that himself. Without knowing what might effected, it was hard to prevent it. Wouldn't her and her friend being here already cause a ripple in time? It was hard to say and seemed overly complicated.

Eventually she started to speak again. He spared another glance her way, that apprehension still there. He listened intently as she brought up her thoughts.

"I see," he answered simply.

He didn't expect her to go on, especially given the way her face contorted into thought again. If this kept on, he doubted that they would be getting much information out of her. Ophelia seemed a little more open but he couldn't be sure of how far she'd go giving answers.

Again, she started to speak up, expressing these theories and the like. Vali watched her carefully, taking note that she seemed to feel she said too much. He shook his head then.

"Existing here, as you are now, would that not already create a ripple in time?" he asked, a shake his head following. He motioned to her then, "I understand your caution however I am still uncertain of this time travel business. So few misfortune children have existed, we have very few answers."

He watched as her eyebrows knitted together as if in confusion. Vali wasn't sure why but he waited regardless. Perhaps she was merely in deep thought over what he said again.

Cyril paid little attention to answer or rather he didn’t bother to reply. It was good to know that she didn’t see them as horrible people though there was little point in continuing the conversation in this manner. There was no need to convince her and so a new topic might be best.

Her wishes were ones that Cyril mirrored. How these two got here and why, well, they were questions that might not have answers. He would try not to point that out, no need for her to dwell on them. There would be other things to focus on in the coming days, more important things.

“Perhaps now is not a good time to dwell on such things,” Cyril offered.

She seemed to agree, growing quiet for a moment or so. Cyril continued to lead them, turning them off into another hallway. This one was less decorated, one of the hallways where churchgoers did not come unless needed. Even so occasionally Cyril caught children playing around back here some days.

Her next question was a simple one. Another chuckle passed his lips and he shook his head, gesturing to himself—or rather to his robes. “No, I am but a deacon here. One of many, you’ll find,” he told her.

Ophelia was quiet for a minute, perhaps thinking over his answer. It was a simple one though perhaps she was unaware of what a deacon’s duties were. That might have been an alarming thought if Cyril had not long since grown disillusioned with the church and faith. He kept those thoughts to himself, however. His position was helpful to the Templar cause more often than note.

“And what was it that you did before all of this?” he questioned, “it seems to me that society might have changed a time or two before you were born.”

----[x]----

She was a little surprised that Vali sat and listened to her pick her way through her main concern. In a way she expected him to interrupt for questions or to halt her entirely. Aceline had never been great at explaining things and now was no exception to that matter. All the same he’d sat there, quietly.

Aceline reasoned he had nothing to gain by being pushy or impatient. It was only a guess though. The most she’d seen of him as a game character hadn’t been enough to give a very rounded assessment of a personality. Now, well, that could change.

It took him several seconds before he spoke up, sounding as if he had mulled over his words in that time. They didn’t help ease Aceline’s mind however. Being there was sure to change things, unless they were meant to be here all along. But just handing out information without a second thought because the former situation didn’t make things better, it might make things worse.

It wasn’t until he gestured to her did she glance back at him. The term wasn’t familiar to her but it was clear he was referring to her with it. For the moment she shoved her concerns to the side, trying to piece together what a misfortune’s child might be but she was drawing a blank.

“Misfortune’s children?” she echoed, watching him as if that would somehow give her the answer she sought.

Now that he was sitting closer, in an area with a light source it was easier to see his face. His eyes were still shadowed, hidden from view though she could see the color of his skin—darker than her pale complexion by far—and the bit of facial hair. In another situation she might have taken more time to appreciate the looks but for now it was a passing observation.

Aceline shook her head. It didn’t seem like she’d get many answers either tonight. That was probably fair, given how she’d been stingy with them. She reasoned that she was doing so for a good reason though.

Instead she leaned forward, elbows on the table and pressed the heels of her palm to her forehead. If she’d been able she’d have soaked in the tub for some time to ignore this headache. That wasn’t exactly possible though, wasn’t bathwater boiled in this age? She groaned, unconcerned if it drew Vali’s curiosity.

For the most part, the conversation had died down a bit. She didn't mind it. There would be a time to dwell on these things later. If she and Aceline did little talking later on tonight, she would have plenty of time.

Ophelia bobbed her head in a nod when he spoke next. Despite her want and slight need for answers, she was aware it wouldn't be easy. It was something she mostly had to brush off now, instead focusing on the hall that he'd turned them down.

This place was a little less than what the rest of the church was. Still she spared a glance around taking in the area around her. This was all interesting to see for her and she wanted to see as much as she could.

He chuckled again, drawing her attention to him. Ophelia tried not to think of how she liked the sound. She spared a small smile, listening as he spoke. She didn't know much about what deacon's did. That hadn't been something she delved much into. Before she could inquire, he asked what she did for a living in her time.

"Oh, I worked in a library," she replied lightly. She had rather liked her job and debated going further into it for a profession. "I loved to read, loved to learn. I used to take piles of them from the library and often overwhelmed myself, so I sometimes never read everything I had. But I loved trying nonetheless."

She wasn't sure if that was strange for this time, not know where women stood. If he expressed it, then she would at least know. Ophelia cleared her throat, realizing that she was rambling.

----[x]----

She was very quiet as he spoke. Whatever she expected from him, he could only assume. Vali wouldn't ask her anything on that matter. If she felt the need to share, she would bring it up in time.

He sat back, glancing about the bare room quietly. He had to wonder if she would open up with time or if she'd simply remain this way. With the paranoia of causing some ripple effect in time, he could only assume.

When she echoed his words is when he glanced at her again. Vali hummed slightly before he nodded in response. She must have not know. It had been documented that many misfortune children hadn't known what they were.

"Yes, you are a misfortunes child," he explained. "Both you and your friend have red eyes. The children of misfortune were said to have strange reactions to certain objects or events. What made them, as well as you, unique was the fact that they were able to receive information of the past and future."

Aceline seemed to take a long moment to mull that over. Whatever she thought, it was obvious she was shocked and confused. Vali knew she might not have known much less expected it. In the very least, it would make a little sense as to why they had been threatened on the streets.

"Misfortune children have been very rare. According to what has been written, many of them were killed or sold into slavery. You are both lucky to have some shelter now. If one person encouraged it, others would follow and the likely hood of both of you surviving would have been slim."

It wasn’t until he asked about her did she turn back to him, answering soon after. It was a little strange to see her rambling as she was. He must admit the idea of her working with books left him curious. Where books commonplace in her time? Perhaps it might be something to ask about tomorrow.

“Sounds as if you enjoyed yourself, in any case,” Cyril noted, a little amused even now. Ophelia had opened up with little prodding and though she caught it and shied back away a little it had happened all the same.

Their foot falls were the only sounds for a moment or so though Cyril did little to break that trend. Instead he’d glanced out a nearby window, the inky darkness outside a reminder of just how late it must have been. He shook his head at that, turning to Ophelia as they passed that window.

“Perhaps it might be time to rest,” Cyril offered. Noting the expression that flitted over her face he continued to say, “there will be plenty of time tomorrow to speak and see the rest of the church.”

Indeed, he wasn’t sure when the misfortune’s children would be moved to someplace more secure. No doubt it would be after they’d procured a set of clothes for the two to blend in. Staying up late just to chat idly would do no one any favors. Cyril half-hoped the other misfortune’s child would be reasonable about getting rest as well.

When he received Ophelia’s answer he gestured for her to follow after. Just down this way he would lead her to a room with spare beds. It was empty as of the moment, set aside for these two by Cyril without a word to the other deacons. They needn’t know about just how strange these two were; Cyril would need to find them clothes fairly early to avoid questions.

----[x]----

The answers Vali shared weren’t exactly comforting or enlightening. It was enough to make one’s head spin however. In an unfamiliar place with no warning and with little idea of what was going to happen to her and Ophelia, tht alone would have been enough to be stressed about but this misfortune’s child business only added more to it.

Leaning her elbows on the table and placing her head in her hands she attempted not to dwell on it all. Try as she might Aceline couldn’t quite take her mind off of it all and who could blame her? Briefly she wondered if she’d be able to get any sleep at all with all of these thoughts. It was quickly replaced by those previous concerns.

’I think I liked my life better when I was worrying about not having enough money for food instead of attempts on my life,’ she brooded. Aceline sniffed then, placing her hands against the table and blinking at the candles. They were still going and would for sometime unless snuffed out. The wax was pooling on the wooden table, however—had they been burning that long?

Another long moment passed before she turned to Vali, her gaze still on that candle, however. She was quiet even longer still, trying to pick her words carefully. Despite the misstep earlier she wanted to get to know Vali better but would he be around after tonight? Aceline had no idea what was going to happen with her and Ophelia, it was quite possible Vali would slip out of her life after this. She couldn’t just say all of that, however, especially since that interest in him stemmed from before this mess.

“What’s going to happen tomorrow?” she ventured finally, ignoring the thought that he might not be back.

When he spoke she would listen, tearing her gaze away from the candle finally. It seemed that he wasn’t quite sure himself and that left Aceline’s stomach clenching with worry. She nodded slowly in answer though kept her thoughts to herself.

“If it’s all the same to you I think I’d like to sleep now,” Aceline said. She doubted she’d get much sleep but sitting here all night wouldn’t do her much good either.

Ophelia had shied away a bit after her rambling. It wasn't often that she took to making such a big deal about her books. There were a few that she was able to talk with in her time but in the department she worked in, it wasn't often.

"I do, yes," she answered lightly in return.

She probably shouldn't have been making mention of any of this much less open up as easily as she was. She'd been a bit of an open book as of recent years and it was easy to get her to speak.

Their wandering continued and occasionally she'd spare another glance around. She would have kept wandering if she could until Cyril spoke up about turning in for the night.

"Sure, alright," she answered after a few moments.

Ophelia wasn't sure where they might end up after this but if she still had a little time to study this place, she would be grateful for it. It worried her a little, wondering where she and Aceline would end up later on down the road. The thought was shoved aside for the moment as she followed after Cyril.

It wasn't until he had bid her a good night before those thoughts crashed on her again. She rubbed her hand over her forehead, settling down on one of the two beds. She tried to settle down, laying back and stared at the ceiling.

At some point, Aceline had been led to the room as well. The night would be a long one, both were finding it difficult to sleep.

----[x]----

The alarm that had settled on her features was apparent. She leaned forward, burying her face in her hands. It must have been rather difficult to discover these things. Surely the threats on the streets had been enough to hint however.

He could not provide anything in the ways of solace for Aceline. Her existence in this time would be looked down upon here. If they were discovered now, even those in the church might grow alarmed.

She remained like this for several long minutes. Vali eventually reached out, patting her shoulder. It would not be best to simply leave her like this. There were quite a few worries on her mind and no doubt more now.

Aceline finally sat back, asking another question. Vali took a long moment to think it through. He shook his head after a moment.

"It is hard to say," he replied, sparing another glance her way. "It will take time to get word to the others. There are arrangements to be made but I suppose first and foremost, we will probably deal with your clothing."

He motioned to her then when she suggested turning in. Vali rose to his feet, leading her out of the room. A place had been arranged for the both of them. They met Cyril half way and he had taken her to the room provided.

Vali would remain at the church that night, if only to wait on word the next morning if there was any. Unless he was ordered to depart on another mission, he would help keep watch over the misfortune children.

It was short work seeing to the pair of misfortune’s children for the night. Neither seemed apt to eat anything though perhaps stress factored into that. Cyril would have to make sure they ate something in the morning, they couldn’t risk the two getting ill because they refused to eat or sleep.

Vali seemed intent to stay the night and though Cyril was sure there would be questions later from the other deacons he would deal with them in time. A mere hand wave of the situation and to say that Vali was merely concerned for the two seeking sanctuary should sufficiently quell any questions. It might be strange given what they were but the world took all kinds or so it was said.

After that he ran a precursory check about the church. The less he had to do in the morning the more he could see to the pair and make sure they stayed out of trouble. If Vali was not called away the extra pair of eyes on them would help.

With that done Cyril turned in for the night, showing Vali to a room near the misfortune’s children. He had little doubt anything would escape Vali’s notice in the night though neither woman seemed intent on causing any trouble or trying to leave. It was one less thing to worry about though the precaution was necessary all the same.

Morning would arrive quickly it would seem, the pale light making its way around the curtains. Cyril rose, dressing and hurriedly seeing to things. Vali might already be up as well though for the time being Cyril had yet to run into him.

----[x]----

At some point Vali had clasped a hand over her shoulder. As if that had been all she needed it was then that Aceline had sat back a little. If nothing else Vali was proving himself to be far more patient and rather kind than she would have expected of him. She tried not to think about how it might just be to keep her complacent.

It wasn’t long after that did she receive an answer, Vali expressing confusion on the matter himself. She’d glanced down and tugged at her jacket briefly. A new set of clothes would help, sure, though she’d miss the bright red thing she was wearing now even if it was two sizes too big. It’d been a birthday gift from Ophelia some years back.

“Yeah… alright,” she murmured.

When she mentioned being ready to sleep Vali hadn’t dawdled. He led the way out in the hallway seeking out Cyril. It seemed like Ophelia had already gone off to bed herself if the way he was wandering bout alone was any indication. Indeed, when Aceline had been lead to an out of the way room she could spot one of the beds occupied and spotted Ophelia glancing at them briefly.

There was little time for chatter, neither woman seemed intent on it anyways. Aceline rolled into the vacant bed, trying to clear her head. It was an unsuccessful endeavor, it usually was, and so she laid awake for some time brooding over everything. If Ophelia was doing the same she wouldn’t be surprised about it.

Eventually sleep did claim Aceline though it was all too soon before the sky would lighten and peek through the window.

It was difficult to sleep through the night. She spent it mostly tossing and turning as if trying to find a comfortable place spot. When she did manage sleep, it was a very light doze, nothing that would deem it 'restful'. She had little doubt that this was the same for Aceline.

At some point, she started hearing people moving about outside. Daylight streamed through the window, rousing her from her restless sleep. She sat up, running a hand through her short hair.

Ophelia sat back then, her back against the wall. She wasn't sure what to do now that she was up. Leaving the room didn't seem right. They might have been in the church for sanctuary but the others didn't seem to be aware of their arrival. Not startling these people would be for the best.

She pulled her knees to her chest, resting her chin in the crock of it. She watched Aceline from the other side of the room. no doubt she was probably awake as well, simply laying there.

Ophelia wondered how long it would be before they heard word or were retrieved. She wouldn't mention how much she'd talked to Cyril the night before.

----[x]----

The night had passed quickly for Vali. It was strange staying here in the church though he didn't mention it or complain. He was but a few rooms away from the misfortunes children and would make due keeping an eye on them for a time.

There was no trouble that night however. He didn't stay up much later than he had to after that. Both Aceline and Ophelia were at least behaving and not causing trouble for them.

At some point the sun had risen, rousing him. he pushed himself up, ready to get the day started. Vali hoped that word had gotten through and they would receive word on what to do with the pair.

He wandered toward their door, rapping his knuckles against it. He wasn't sure if they were up or had eaten yet. Perhaps Cyril had already tended to them already. It would be best if they did not leave their room just yet, given their attire.

Vali waited then for one or the other to open the door. If anyone was wandering about, he ignored them. There were all kinds in this place. No doubt he was less of a sight than some others.

It was a little nippy compared to other mornings in Constantinople though Cyril’s robes helped combat it. The day would warm in time, quickly at that. It wasn’t as if he was going far either, there was a square nearby filled with merchant’s selling their wares. He would surely be able to find something for Ophelia and Aceline to wear for the day.

His steps were quick and he found himself there in record time. He’d rather not be caught by too many and asked what he was doing. Though deacons often went about to help the needy in the area they didn’t outright buy clothes for people out of their own pocket money. No, the donations oft lead to those endeavors.

Actually choosing the clothes was a chore, unsure of what might fit either woman. In the end he did his best and quickly paid for them, hurrying back to the church. The other deacons would be arriving soon if they hadn’t already.

It would only be a few minutes before he was back at the church, heading up the steps with clothes tucked under his arm. No one had stopped him to chat, perhaps due to the way he carried himself. A man who walked with purpose had little to stop for as people oft left him alone to do as he needed. Cyril had learned this rather quickly in life.

It would just be a matter of stopping by the women’s room and passing off the new clothes now. Perhaps Vali had already checked up on them by now. Cyril hummed in thought. It would be awhile yet before any word reached them about what might happen next.

----[x]----

Ophelia was moving, Aceline could hear the shifting and the creak of the flimsy wooden bedframe when she had. At the very least it hadn’t broken on her. It didn’t look like the church afforded much in the way of furniture back in these rooms though it wasn’t like either cared to complain.

For a long while Aceline merely laid there, eyes closed and trying to ignore the itchy blanket against her hands and feet. She missed her big comforter and her cat who’d curl up at her feet or near her chest at night. Ophelia must have been feeling the same kind of homesickness. At some point Aceline sighed, unsure of what to do.

It wasn’t until there was a knock at the door did Aceline draw away from her thoughts. For a moment there wasn’t any movement. Another sigh escaped her as Aceline swung her legs around the edge of the bed. She’d rather not annoy whoever might be at that door, who knew what might happen then. She’d rather not see that happen when things were still so uncertain.

Ignoring the fact that her hair might be stuck up at odd angles and a tatty mess all around, Aceline pulled the door open a little. She had an idea of who might be out there but what if it was someone else in the church? That last worry was unfounded as Vali greeted her, hood drawn up to shadow his face as it had been the night before.

“Yes?” she ventured quietly, stifling a yawn. Behind her she could hear Ophelia shifting on that creaky bed again.

It took a few minutes before the door finally opened. Aceline stood there, stifling a yawn before she spoke up. She still looked tired, as if she hadn't slept through the night. Vali didn't dwell on it for the moment.

"I am merely checking up on you two," he explained watching her briefly. She looked less tense but that might have simply been because she was tired. "You both must be hungry."

Neither had eaten last night and he doubted they had much before he had found them.

Ophelia lifted her head a little, catching Vali outside the door. He spoke loud enough for the both of them to hear. She had figured one or the other would check up on them soon enough.

Despite her worry, her stomach was protesting a little. She normally wouldn't eat when she was feeling anxious but going without food wasn't going to help either. There was no point in starving themselves.

"I think we could both use a little something," she answered, tipping her head slightly. "If that's not too much to ask."

She watched as Vali waved off her statement. He must have been prepared to get them something regardless of whether they wanted it or not.

"It is not like we are planning to starve you," Vali answered simply. "I will see what I can find."

With that said, he dismissed himself, leaving the two women behind. No doubt they would be busy today. Cyril must have already been tending to the clothing. At least with that, they would be able to wander about a little.

Vali didn’t seem at all bothered by how early it was, maybe for him this was normal. With most jobs relaying on daylight and with only fire to light their way Aceline figured it’d be a huge difference from what she was used to. It was something they’d have to deal with now, like it or not.

His intention was a simple one and Aceline should have expected it. She spared a tired nod, sniffing as she did so. It wasn’t often she was talkative in the mornings and Ophelia was the one who beat her to answering him. Annoyance flitted over her face at that though she otherwise said or did nothing about it.

Already he’d started off, no doubt to get them something. It wasn’t like they could just wander about the church still dressed as they were. Aceline toyed with her jacket again, shuffling from foot to foot at the doorway.

“I guess we’ll just… wait here then,” she muttered before closing the door and turning to flop back onto her borrowed bed. It creaked under the stress but otherwise held up alright.

It was quiet and neither seemed to mind this. Ophelia might have been lost in her own thoughts as well. If that was the case Aceline didn’t want to draw her away from them. Who knew how much time they’d get to just think today.

Cyril had passed Vali on the way to the women. A nod was exchanged before he was out of view. Cyril figured he must be up to something, perhaps seeing to the misfortune’s children while Cyril had been away. At the very least there was no need to tell either one what needed to be done.

Coming upon the door he knocked twice and waited. Whichever one answered didn’t matter to him so long as he didn’t get an attitude from either—who knew if they were morning people or not. Some could be rather unreasonable during mornings.

Aceline groaned into the pillow waving a dismissive hand up in the air for Ophelia to answer it this time. Despite the itchy blanket she was warm and halfway comfortable. She didn’t want to get up again if she didn’t have to. It couldn’t have been Vali at the door with food anyways, it wasn’t way too soon for that.

It wasn't long before Vali had wandered off. Aceline wandered back to her bed quickly after and laid down again. She would probably remain like this for a while. Ophelia didn't break her of it and simply withdrew into her own thoughts.

It was all a lot to take in. She wasn't sure what was expected of them or what misfortune children really were. Aside from red eyes and holding odd information, they didn't have a lot to really go on. Many things could be expected of them and who knew if they were even able to provide that much.

Several minutes passed in this way. At one point, she closed her eyes for a few moments. A rapping on the door came again. Aceline groaned, catching Ophelia's attention. She'd waved a dismissive hand and at that, Ophelia got to her feet.

Getting to the door, it was easy to tug it open. She blinked up at Cyril, holding a bundle of clothing in his arms.

"Good morning," she greeted, sparing a small smile. Despite how tired she felt, there was no need to be rude. For all intents and purposes, they were more or less guests here.

"You look as if you've been busy," she mentioned, motioning to the clothing he had gather. "I'm sorry if that was a bother."

She spared a glance back toward Aceline, wondering if she was listening or not. No doubt she would frown at how Ophelia remained rather open to this man. She tried not to think about it for the time being.

----[x]----

Vali would have been lying if he said he knew this church well. Regardless of that fact, he wandered, occasionally asking those inside where he could find something to eat.

It didn't take long before he was pointed in the correct direction. Many milled about this area, waking early as most were accustom to. He spared them little mind as he waited for a chance grab what little he needed.

A bit of fruit and bread would do for the pair of them. Neither seemed to be complaining, at least not at the moment. He had to wonder about Aceline and her personality.

Eventually, he grabbed what he could, collecting a little basket to do so. It wouldn't take long after before he would wander back to the room. Cyril had collected clothing for the girls so perhaps getting out and about would lift their moods.

From the looks of things, neither fared well through the night. In time, that would change, they would grow used to this place and sleep would come easier.

With that thought in mind, he began the way he had come. A little bit of food would do them some good.

It was Ophelia who greeted him at the door, smiling quickly after she realize who he was. He spared a smile in return and a morning greeting. It did not look as if she had slept well however. Perhaps worry had gnawed at her, maybe homesickness of wherever they were from as well. If she wished to speak of them then she would, he reasoned.

When she gestured to the clothing bundled under his arm he held it up for her to take. She and Aceline could decide who wore what. If they didn’t like what he’d picked they could sort it out later when more permanent rearrangements had been made.

“It was a simple errand,” Cyril answered, “just another task to get done for the day.”

Her friend had yet to rise from her bed and appear at the door though this didn’t bother Cyril. With the way Ophelia spoke it was clear Aceline must be awake anyways. If she was listening then she could chip into the conversation at any time.

A moment after Cyril gestured toward Ophelia. “I might suggest you two change quickly before any of the others about the church sight you. I will wait here.”

True to his word he stepped a few feet from the door, turning to survey the hallway. It was more or less still empty, a reason why he’d chosen these rooms. It was easier to hide them from view until they were more suitable to be seen in public. He mulled over the possibilities of the day with these two as he waited. Surely they would not cause trouble, at least that was the hope.

Before the two finished changing Vali was heading his way. Cyril spared another nod in greeting, noting the basket of food the other man had. Good, the two needed to eat after skipping dinner the night before. On the other side of the door he could swear he heard muted conversation between the two women.

----[x]----

Aceline wasn’t so sure about the conversation she listened to. Ophelia was already so open with that guy while Aceline was being cautious. Wasn’t Ophelia worried about anything? Considering the fact that she’d had a better home life than Aceline and yet here she was so much more open with the situation.

She wouldn’t say anything on the matter. It would only lead to some argument and considering neither had anyone else here Aceline didn’t think it was wise to go picking fights. All she could do was try to ignore the situation and make the best of things while doing what was right.

When she heard Cyril prodding for them to change Aceline sat herself up. She felt stiff but she’d feel better moving around after awhile. The door clicked shut softly as Ophelia inspected the clothes.

“Let’s see what kind of taste your future hubby has,” Aceline said, stretching as she did.

If she wasn’t mistaken Ophelia had tossed her a look for that though Aceline didn’t get a good glance at it to see what kind it was. Maybe Ophelia was just happy Aceline wasn’t starting a fight or anything about the situation. There wasn’t much point, however displeased she was with it all. At the very least she could get to know Vali, assuming he stayed around.

Pushing those thoughts aside she held out a hand for whichever clothes Ophelia tossed her way. Probably wouldn’t do much good to just wait around. Besides her stomach was growling and it had been a long time since she’d actually indulged in breakfast.

Ophelia was at least able to spare a good natured nod in Cyril's direction. She took the clothing into her arms before the door was shut. Aceline had finally risen from her bed again, looking as exhausted as Ophelia felt. Regardless, there was little either of them could do about it for the time being.

Whatever Aceline thought about the short conversation was not mentioned. Instead, she opted to make a dry joke. Ophelia could only shoot the woman a look, her cheeks feeling hot momentarily.

"I'd just feel better not sticking out like a sore thumb," she answered simply.

That had been a big concern and neither of them knew how to fix it out on the streets. If they'd stayed out there much longer, who knew what would have become of them. Especially so with this 'child of misfortune' information she had received.

Ophelia tossed a pair of the clothing Aceline's way before she tended to the ones she'd kept. They were strange but for them, a lot of this time was. She tried not to complain about the look or feel. Cyril had picked something that obviously was meant to look a little more fitting for a woman.

"Did Vali tell you?" she inquired, as she started to get dressed in the new clothing. "Cyril mentioned this 'child of misfortune thing. I'd never heard of it, even knowing as little as I did. You would have probably mentioned it to me before anyways..."

That left her feeling rather torn. While she had little knowledge on how the games played out, the information was always available and Aceline took to great pains to make sure Ophelia knew what was going on, especially when she wasn't able to afford the newest game or system to play it on. This children of misfortune were completely new to her and that was a bit of a worry.

----[x]----

It hadn't taken him long to reach the doorway again. Outside, Cyril was already there and waiting. He must have gotten up and tended to their clothing early that morning. Vali couldn't blame the man. Both women were a sight and while those red eyes still gave them away, they would blend in better with new clothing.

He waited then, listening to a muffled conversation between the two. Vali couldn't make out much of what was said however. He shook his head, giving up for the moment.

"I assume both of them were fine when you arrived?" he inquired, if only to fill the silence. "Neither seemed to have managed much sleep."

That would be something that would be addressed at a later point. Exhaustion could lead to illness and they couldn't have that. Not when two misfortune children were safe and sound with them now.

He shook the thought away, waiting on the pair to finish getting dressed. The food he had brought would be offered afterward. They needed to eat, hungry or not.

Ophelia was quick to retaliate, tossing a set of the clothes at Aceline. It was a simple matter to catch the bundle, inspecting the material. It was softer than she’d expected though Cyril couldn’t have spent a lot on these, not for two girls he’d just met the night before. Still, the clothes would help them blend in, at least until they did or said something—or if someone got a look at their eyes, it seemed.

“Ah-huh, right,” Aceline answered unconvinced, “Can I just point out that I’ve never seen you that open with anyone that soon? Ever.”

It was clear Aceline was onto something, perhaps Ophelia still had that old crush on Cyril and was nurturing it now that he was real. It might have been cute if this situation wasn’t so stressful. Then again wasn’t Aceline doing the same with Vali, hoping that he wouldn’t just up and leave from her life? She shook the thought away, instead getting changed.

She’d been halfway into tugging on whatever clothes Cyril had purchased before Ophelia had spoken up. She blinked, half-dressed, unsure of what she meant. A moment after Ophelia was elaborating.

A shake of the head followed this. “Yeah, he said something about it.” A pause followed as Aceline sighed, finishing getting dressed. Her old clothes were in a pile on the floor already. “That’s because it wasn’t a thing. There was the sage who was introduced in that new game but he didn’t have any weird eye color. That and he was kind of nutzoid about Juno.”

In the momentary silence that followed Aceline smoothed out her clothes, unsure of how she looked in them. At the very least her assassin tattoo was hidden, still a little more conscious about it now then she would have liked to admit.

----[x]----

Cyril nodded in answer to Vali’s question. As far as he was aware the two were fine though he’d only really seen Ophelia. He trusted that they would mention if something was seriously wrong though he supposed that might entail a great deal of trust that might not be there yet.

“They seemed like it albeit tired,” he informed, “in time it might be easier for them.”

Of course that might be when they were in more permanent situations and not in the church. Until then there would be tabs kept on both, to ensure they stayed healthy. The last thing they needed was either getting sick.

The muted conversation wasn’t much to go by on the other side of that door, he couldn’t make out any words being said. Perhaps it was best that way. Aceline was the more cautious of the two, after all, and Ophelia might get her to loosen her tongue a little and to see reason. Assuming Aceline didn’t take to punching her friend again, of course.

“I am sure it is merely adjusting that will be the most difficult part,” Cyril assured, keeping the conversation going as they waited.

Ophelia could only manage to snort in response to her friends words. It was true enough, she wasn't exactly a people person. Working with the public had forced her to be a little more open but not by that much. She let that conversation drop however, in favor of getting dressed.

It was strange to think like that. The joke had merely been as such but Ophelia had told quite a bit to Cyril that she normally wouldn't have. Would nurturing those feelings be a bad thing? What of Aceline and Vali? That was a crush that she never really let go even with new games and characters to fawn over.

These thoughts were shoved aside. Whatever happened, happened and Ophelia tried to think of it like that. Then again, she didn't want anyone to just up and leave her life just after meeting them, wanting something to happen.

She tugged the clothing on, listening when Aceline finally spoke up. A short hum left Ophelia. So there had been nothing like this existing in the game.

"Well, this is all a comforting thought," she answered finally. "I wonder what's to be expected then."

Ophelia bundled her clothing together, a little at a loss as to what to do with them. For all they knew, they could be retrieved later on in the day. She moved to the door then, waiting on Aceline to follow. She still appeared a little stressed on the issue, a far cry from how she usually acted. It was almost as if they'd swapped personalities, honestly.

"Probably best not to keep them waiting," she brought up before she turned the knob on the door. Only when Aceline was ready did she open it.

----[x]----

Vali nodded in response to Cyril's words. No doubt they would be this way for a while. At least one of the two was opening up. With a little counsel, perhaps Aceline would be much of the same. Still, for the time being they could only wait.

"I can only assume what kind of life they lead before this," he answered after a moment.

It was true enough. The way both girls acted and dressed were certainly strange. They bantered and dressed more like men did rather than women. Something must have changed in whatever time they had come from. Vali was a tad curious to know what that time might have been like.

Adjusting would take time, no doubt. Vali tried not to think about rushing that process. Doing so might cause one or both to withdraw. It was best to avoid that at this point, Aceline cautious as it is.

"Yes, that is what I am worried about," he agreed, a shake of his head following. "Aceline is rather guarded. It might take quite some time before she will be willing to speak up."

Cyril seemed to be aware of this as well, though how could either not be? In the very least, Vali had made out with a short conversation the other night. How long that pace lasted was a mystery to him.

His thoughts were cut off when Ophelia opened the door however. Aceline lingered behind, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes. They blended in a fair amount better, all but their eyes.

"That looks better," he commented, studying the two women briefly. The clothing chosen, while simple, at least were a little more flattering than what they had worn beforehand.

Ophelia had scoffed though there wasn’t any other answer to Aceline’s observation. There didn’t seem to be any reason why she would though, maybe aware that Aceline had a point or Ophelia just didn’t want to pursue the topic. If that was the case then fine, when Aceline’s mood picked up she’d just tease her about it later. That was if her mood picked up.

Shaking those thoughts away she tugged at the sleeves of her new attire. It was a little ill-fitting but it would be better than being such a sore thumb. At least this way Aceline might be able to go about in the crowds with less of a problem.

Instead the topic of what they apparently were had come up. It was Aceline’s turn to scoff—comforting, right. The situation was anything but though that didn’t need saying. Instead Aceline said nothing and gave only a shrug in return. A minute later Ophelia was mentioning keeping them waiting and how that might be a bad idea.

“They can wait out there as long as I say they will,” she retaliated. Nonetheless she scooped up her clothes and waited for Ophelia to head out.

Outside Cyril and Vali were waiting, Vali with a small basket of food in hand. The two had turned to them, perhaps appraising the new clothes. They must not have looked too bad in the clothes considering they weren’t cringing or wrinkling their noses. At least there was that, however minor it was.

Vali was the first to speak and though it wasn’t the most flattering compliment she heard it was a compliment all the same. Aceline pushed her glasses up her nose reminding herself that the cultural and time differences would have made it difficult for anyone to appreciate the clothes she and Ophelia had worn before. When she put it that way it was a little easier to not get offended in some way he didn’t mean.

“I suppose so,” she murmured.

”At least now you will not draw such obvious attention to yourselves, assuming neither of you does anything reckless,” Cyril noted lightly.

Vali was offering the two the food he’d brought then. Cyril would feel better once they’d began to eat, making sure they were well taken care of. They couldn’t risk losing either one, having a misfortune’s child was rare but two at the same time? It wouldn’t do to neglect either. At the very least neither woman was turning down the offer for the food.

“Perhaps now you two might be able to see a little more of the area without worry.” It was merely a suggestion and so long as they kept nearby things would be fine. No one knew when someone would come to say what would happen that day concerning them.

Aceline seemed to remain quiet, pinching off and eating chunks of the bread she’d grabbed first. Perhaps her strange face comment from the night before as more akin to the idea that she did not like him in the least. Glancing sidelong at Vali Cyril wondered if the other man might take it upon himself to look after her if this was the case.

It wasn't hard to tell that Aceline's mood was dipping on and off. Then again, Ophelia was aware her own should have been as well. There was still quite a bit of nervousness lodged in her stomach but until the situation got worse, she tried to ignore it. Who knew, maybe in time it would be better.

Cyril had told her cooperation was for the best. Ophelia simply hoped she wasn't putting any amount of trust in the man for that to come out as a lie. Aceline would be far more trusting of the assassin's but neither of them were in their hands. They had to rely on these people to survive.

Ophelia couldn't help but smile a little at Aceline's answer. That was sounding more and more like her now. Ophelia worried about the stress on her shoulders.

She tugged at the sleeves after they had headed out. They felt odd against her body and she must have looked rather pale in them, avoiding the sun as she normally took to. In the very least, they blended in better now.

Vali offered the basket of food to the pair. Aceline had taken it into hand, inspecting the contents before she picked through for what she wanted. She gave the basket to Ophelia next.

"As long as you both have sense, you should be fine," Vali added after Cyril. "I do not believe two scrawny girls could get into too much trouble."

That was true enough, both looked rather small and less of a threat to most around them. The concern lay with how others would react to them. He had some good faith that they would not get into any trouble.

The offer to wander was there again. No doubt both of them would need to see some of the sights around here, get an idea of how people acted. Aceline had yet to wander the church however so perhaps she would take to that today.

He motioned to her then, watching her briefly. "I will take care of Aceline if she does not mind that," he brought up briefly.

"I'd like to wander if that's alright," Ophelia added, glancing at Vali when he spoke up about Aceline. "I want to see a little more of the church and the activities."

Learning about this place would be for the best. She would take that step forward, in the very least. It would be best to learn a few things if they were stuck in this era.

The food Vali had brought was simple, some fruit and bread though Aceline wasn’t complaining. She took a loaf and one of the fruits in hand before passing it off to Ophelia. The conversation seemed rather measured, more a warning for the two not to do anything reckless than anything else.

Aceline paused between bites, eyebrow raised as she studied Vali for a moment. It must have looked as if she was sizing him up despite the fact that he was quite a bit taller than her. Finally she nodded her head to one side, taking a bite of her fruit.

“You’d be surprised,” she said simply.

She received an odd look from them for that though didn’t elaborate. Aceline had gotten into her fair share of trouble in life and she’d always been a scrawny slip of a thing. The topic slid away, replaced by wandering about the area. Aceline blinked, a little surprised as Vali mentioned escorting her about.

“Yeah, that’s fine,” she said when she realized he was waiting on her answer, “I’d rather not be cooped up in this church though.”

Given the opportunity she’d rather see the area around it. Churches had never been particularly comfortable in them, there was too much expected of people in them she’d felt. Even when she’d been taken to church as a small child she’d never liked it.

Cyril nodded, listening as arrangements were made. Yet again it seemed as if Aceline preferred Vali’s company to his own so Cyril would do little to argue the case. Cryil didn’t quite care for the attitude he’d received from her last night, after all. It might be best this way for all Cyril knew.

He gestured for Ophelia to follow after him then. “If everyone is alright with the arrangements then I will take Ophelia around the church again today.”

This would at least keep both women out of trouble and perhaps they might learn something of this time. If they were lucky they might impart some knowledge about their own time and of things to come. Cyril could only hope, however.

When it was all settled Cyril would start off with Ophelia tagging along at his side, much like last night. He’d leave it to Ophelia to ask any questions she might have in time. He caught her glancing over her shoulder at her friend as they left. Cyril clasped Ophelia’s shoulder in reassurance.

“She will be fine, Vali is quite capable of handling anything that might happen,” he pointed out.

Vali wasn't sure what to make of Aceline's answer. She didn't let a lot on and he was finding she preferred it that way, at least for the time being. If he was able, he hoped to at least prod some trust out of her.

The thought was shaken away as he motioned for her to follow after. Cyril would attend to Ophelia inside the church whereas Aceline preferred the outside. The two seemed as different as night and day, even coming down to little decisions like this.

For all he knew, Aceline felt more comfortable outside. He didn't bring it up. If she decided to explain her reasoning, she would do so in time.

"You two are certainly quite the pair," he brought up, breaking their momentary silence.

Though he knew little of either, it was apparent from last night how different they were. He would have been lying to himself if he wasn't a little curious of how these two would act. Perhaps later down the road, they would discover new things about each.

The hallway stretched far but after a few minutes, they started to see more people milling about. It was only a short matter of time before they reached the church's entrance.

"If you can avoid eye contact, that may be for the best," Vali advised. "They may foresee your eyes as an ill omen."

For the most part, she seemed to understand that and witnessed it the day before. They were lucky they had not harmed for the odd clothing they wore alone.

Pushing his way outside, he spared a glance at Aceline. Already, she was glancing around, taking in the sights as she could. There was curiosity on her expression, something of a change from the night before. Vali welcomed it without complaint as he started forward. Perhaps the walk would lift her spirits a little.

----[x]----

Ophelia kept the basket in hand, toying with an apple before she chose that to eat. If anything it was a start and better than leaving her belly empty.

Aceline took to leaving the church. It wasn't much of a surprise to Ophelia. Aceline had always been uncomfortable in places like these. It would no doubt be more so now that most people relied on religion here.

Cyril started them off, Ophelia following after. His stride was a fare bit longer but she caught up easily. She glanced over her shoulder, watching Aceline follow after Vali. Worry gnawed at her belly but she had little time to focus on it. Cyril clasped a hand over her shoulder, quickly reassuring her.

The reassurance was appreciated though Ophelia already had an idea of what Vali could manage. Aceline would be safe out there, despite what the people might think of her.

"I'm sure she will be," she replied after a brief moment. "I worry about how people might react, given the times however."

She knew all too well about how things went. Deemed a gypsy or a demon or anything of the like, most were executed over imagined slights. That kind of thinking carried on for hundreds of years after as well.

Ophelia's gaze wandered about, taking in the details of the church during the day. It was far easier to see now that things had been lit up by sunlight a little. People milled about though she ignored them.

"Does it often come to things like that though?" she inquired after a moment. "Having to 'be able to handle yourself' out there?"

Ophelia had no combat experience so the thought was a little nerve wracking. At least out of the two of them, Aceline would be a tad more prepared. For the time being, she didn't mention that detail.

Aceline spared a glance Ophelia’s way before starting after Vali. They met gazes and Aceline offered a brief shrug, there wasn’t much to do but go along with it, however much she felt useless doing just that. It was something she’d have to put to the side at the moment. She hoped that it was something she could do easily enough though she had her doubts on the matter.

Aceline just had to push away the thought of what Ophelia might share with Cyril in the time split apart like this. It helped to do this when Vali spoke up, drawing her attention more fully to him. For a moment she blinked up at him, ignoring how difficult it was to really make out any subtle features to his face due to the shadows of his hood.

“You’re probably not the first to think that,” she said with a shrug.

Up ahead she could see people milling about, some moving with purpose while others looked as if they had little be doing. When they’d all slipped inside as a mystery to Aceline though in a way she supposed it didn’t matter anyways. The chatter that reached her ears was all unimportant to her, just snippets of this or that. A few times she heard it mentioned about herself and Ophelia though not in so many words.

Aceline could only figure that Vali could hear these rumors of the ‘misfortune’s children’, whatever those really were, for he’d started murmuring instructions to her. The corners of her lips twisting into a frown, Aceline fussed with her bangs. They were at least long enough that from a distance it would be harder for people to make out her eye color with them in the way. Still, it would be hard to avoid eye contact consciously with everyone.

It was with great relief that they were outside, having pushed past the throng of people inside the church foyer to get there. The sun was still fairly low, gray morning light still prevalent, though it felt nice where it hit her skin all the same. Her gazed drifted over everything in the square, eyeing the orange and brown path and buildings and at all the colorfully dressed people going to and fro.

Aceline spotted a person or two glancing at her and gesturing to her face. The animosity from the night before was not present however, instead there seemed to be mild curiosity. It took her a moment to realize that they were looking at her glasses.

“So, where to?” she ventured, meeting Vali’s gaze rather evenly.

---[x]----

Ophelia had been left with the small basket as the group split into two. He caught the tail end of their glances though spared it little mind. Neither was acting out or causing trouble and so there was little reason to grow paranoid over this. Perhaps both were still wary about everything.

Ophelia said little, studying the décor yet again. If this is what kept her content than Cyril saw no need to question it though he did have to wonder how this was all so strange to her. It was hard to imagine how things might have changed so that everything here that was so familiar to him was leaving the two women at a loss. He was sure that in time he might learn of such things, especially so from Ophelia.

Even as she observed everything they passed Cyril could spy the worry on her face. It was plain as day to any who could see in the crease of her brow and the set of her jaw. He waited patiently for a time to say something more, not quite willing to draw upon any impatience from her yet.

Eventually her worry was laid out for him though it was one he waved away. “As I said, Vali is quite capable. No harm will befall your friend so long as she does not stray far from him,” he pointed out.

The punching dagger Vali carried with him was in plain sight, hanging from his belt anyways. Anyone who might cause trouble would be the Ottoman guard or the assassins and Vali had experience dealing with both. Still, Ophelia looked unconvinced.

He rose an eyebrow at the question aimed his way. It was an odd one and shed a bit of light into how her life might have been—a soft one with little threat to her life, in a way that seemed almost boring. Surely tedium had to set in with a life like that. Then again, tedium was prevalent in his own life and he was hardly without a target or two upon his back.

“But of course, such is the nature of men,” Cyril told her simply.

Vali mostly ignored the curious looks or talk of the misfortune children. As long as no one made a move to harm Aceline, he would leave them to their talk. There was no quashing rumors from spreading, as unfortunate as that was.

He spared a glance, a short chuckle leaving his throat when she spoke. Her answer was simple enough though probably true. For all he knew, many thought of the pair as odd.

"Is that right?" he replied, quickly sparing a cautionary glance around. "It does not surprise me, I suppose."

Aceline seemed to appreciate being outside of the church. He wouldn't inquire as to why that was. Whatever discomforts in the church were her own and if she wished to talk about them, she would in time.

He spared a glance at her when she asked him where they were headed. He had no real destination in mind, merely wandering to lift her a little. Perhaps a bit of trust could be earned with time.

"I had it in mind to allow you to lead," he answered her, watching the confusion on her face. "As long as we do not wander too far, you have free reign."

Vali knew that might make her a little more comfortable instead of him just leading her about. If she had any questions, Vali trusted she would ask. Then again, perhaps she would keep conversation at a minimum. She wasn't exactly willing to speak up often, afraid of creating some ripple effect in time.

----[x]----

The people milling about were more or less ignored by Ophelia. She tried to keep her gaze aware from them, aware these red eyes would no doubt frighten them. There was little that she could do about it.

He seemed to notice her worry easily though that was not a difficult feat. Most people took notice to her emotions very easily and it wasn't as if Ophelia did a lot to hid her feelings aware. She had become an open book throughout the years.

"I hope she doesn't do something like that," she answered briefly.

Aceline was smart and she would no doubt take care out there. Still, what if she saw an opening or an assassin? Would she try to gain help through them? Ophelia wasn't sure if her friend would risk that much or not.

The next question must have been an odd one for him. He took his time, mulling over it for a long moment before actually answering. Ophelia didn't have so much excitement in her life nor did Aceline. This change of pace, lack of knowledge and ability to fight concerned her. She could take no solace in his answer as well.

"Oh dear," she replied a moment after. "Well, that's certainly concerning."

If things went to hell in a hand basket, she wouldn't be able to do much to protect herself. She tried to shake the thought, her gaze wandering about again. Someone was pointing her out though she paid little mind to it. She and Aceline were the odd ones out here.

She felt more at ease outside, the sun shining down on everything already as it was. No doubt it would get warmer as it rose higher, something Aceline knew Ophelia would detest. Aceline wouldn’t mind it, would be thrilled by it if she was honest. Cold weather was not something that did well for her.

The thoughts were broken when conversation had been made, Vali’s quiet chuckle reaching her. The sound was one she liked, especially so with his deep voice as it was. She wondered for a minute if he was able to tell that before shaking it away. It wasn’t like Vali was a mind reader or anything.

Aceline took the time to observe the area around them and the people within. No one seemed to realize what she apparently was and Aceline hoped it would remain that way for some time. She’d rather not have to be rushed back inside so soon if it could be helped any. Eventually she’d turned to Vali, wondering about any sort of destination in mind.

She blinked, surprised for a minute at the amount of choice she had in that moment. The stipulation was a rather reasonable one as well considering it seemed they were expecting someone soon or later. Aceline spared a small smile then, turning to glance around them again.

“Well how about that,” she murmured. A moment or so later she started off still ignoring the curious glances at her glasses.

Vali easily caught up to her, matching her step for step. It seemed he’d be at arms length at all times and Aceline had a good idea why that might be. If the Templars thought they were this valuable then it was no doubt that he’d want to make sure the assassins didn’t get to her. In a way that left her torn, struggling with that old crush returned to her at the sight of him being real and her sympathies with the assassin cause.

She shook the thought away, it could be dealt with at a time that deemed it necessary.

----[x]----

Ophelia didn’t seem so confident in her friend’s ability to stay out of trouble. While Cyril raised an eyebrow at this he would not ask about it. Any trouble that might be caused would be dealt with accordingly, it would just be easier not to have to do such things if they could be helped.

Their steps were lost among many others, the chatter from those in the church filling any silences that would otherwise fall upon them. Her eyes seemed to drift among the people here, careful to keep her head ducked from what Cyril could tell. At least she had enough sense to hide her eyes away. Even within the church she would not be safe from hostile glances and words.

Eventually she’d spoken up, questioning a bit of how life was here. Cyril saw no need to lie, in fact it would be beneficial if she did not. It had seemed to be her who was cautious now—a strange change of pace considering the night before. Cyril could only assume that he had yet to really see who Ophelia was as a person.

Despite her further concern on the matter Cyril chuckled. It seemed she was not the fighting type, which would mean that she might heavily rely on them for protection. At the very least that would keep her nearby.

“So long as you keep your head down and stay nearby there should be little cause for such things,” Cyril pointed out.

It was as simple as that but if his advice would be adhered to was yet to be seen. He had yet to see Ophelia or Aceline grow angry or distressed beyond reason. In fact, all things considered the situation was running fairly smoothly. With any luck that would not change either.

She took a moment before she actually started forward. There was only a moment of apprehension before she was wandering the streets. It seemed the glances in her direction more or less went ignored.

He spared a glance down at her, considerably shorter than he was. Being outside put her at ease. Maybe she didn't care for the church or the cooler air. Vali could only assume.

"Not too fond of the church?" he inquired curiously, sparing a glance down at her. "Is there no need for things such as sanctuary in your era?"

He kept his voice low as to not draw any attention. His words would have been lost in the chatter anyways. Vali wasn't so worried about someone hearing unless it happened to be an assassin.

"Do not worry, I doubt you will need to linger here long," he carried on.

Whatever was decided for the two, they wouldn't reside in the church for longer than necessary. Naturally, both girls would need to be protected as well. Vali was sure the grand master would decide what was best for the both of them.

----[x]----

He was chuckling again, as brief as the sound was. It drew her attention to him for a moment, sparing him a smile. She found she liked the sound of it just as much as his voice. That wasn't something she would make mention of however, especially given the circumstances.

Ophelia wasn't so much aware of how women acted in this time so heeding his advice was important. He was kind enough to tell her now as it was.

"Do you fight?" she asked in a bid to break the silence. "Do deacons do things like that?"

Ophelia was well aware of the truth but she wasn't sure if the answer she would get in return. People needed to protect themselves in this time or at least that is what it seemed.

More or less, she was merely curious in the end of it. She wanted to know more about him, on the level as a person and not a character. It was strange and she knew Aceline wouldn't care for it but for the moment, Ophelia shoved it into the back of her head.

Who knew, perhaps Aceline was taking the same opportunity with Vali.

» story of my life. lol
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