They were not bowing to him, but Tahl felt more uncomfortable than he’d ever felt in his life, surrounded by people groveling in his – in their – direction. He was sure it was extremely inappropriate that Tahl remain standing, and he flirted with the idea of doing…something, to break the tension, but even sinking to one knee before his friend felt outrageous. Anapa was apparently a prince, but to Tahl he was just Anapa. His friend. That he kissed once.
That had been awkward, but this was much worse.
Rise, Anapa The Prince said, in a tone of voice Tahl barely recognized. He looked askance at him, moving when he moved, trying (and failing) to mimic his manner, his carriage, as they walked. Tahl had the distinct feeling that Anapa’s royal family would not be impressed by their prince’s low-class choice of friends. Of course, neither the family nor Anapa himself knew that Tahl carried god-blood in his veins, and had a kind of power that was rare even for a place like Shaman…and hopefully, it would never be necessary to reveal those secrets. If he could just keep his mouth more or less shut and follow his friend’s lead, maybe they could get themselves out of this mess.
His resolve was tested almost immediately. Atelli had been annoying, but this new person, even fancier and more pompous, made Tahl’s eyes flash like embers. How dare this asshole talk to his friend that way? He said he’s tired, he wanted to fire back, but Anapa answered before he could, so instead he wore his irritation on his face. The trademark scowl was even scowlier, the line of his brow was even harder, and the muscles in his jaw flexed visibly. His cheeks were a bit sore from all that disgust by the time he and Anapa fell back in the hallway, despite the highly amusing threat that had ol’ snobby over there checking every step. Tahl unclenched his teeth and fists, cracked his neck, and made his best effort to relax. He bent his head to pick up his friend’s whisper, then immediately slowed so that he remained behind the Prince’s shoulder.
“This is insane,” he hissed, practically into Anapa’s ear. But then Lord Dickhead was turning back toward them, and Tahl ducked back, opening space. It was a shock when their unwanted tour guide turned to address him directly.
“…Tahl,” he answered carefully, his eyes darting to Anapa for some kind of sign, or hint at any additional information he was supposed to provide. Should he have made up a title? Tahl wasn’t particularly creative at the best of times, but he definitely didn’t think he could conjure that kind of lie on the spot. Hopefully his name would suffice in this introduction to a…really big chair, apparently.
The enormous doors swung open, and so did Tahl’s mouth. He snapped it shut again with a clack.