Common

Jester wasn’t terrible at reading the room - but he definitely wasn’t as perceptive as his twin.

While Lucifer stewed in his silent irritation, the ivory stallion carried on like a mummer on stage. Of course, it didn’t help the stranger that he’d smiled; such reactions only served to encourage Jester. If he got a smile, surely he could coax at least a chuckle out of him next, right? So he babbled on about silence and souls like an enthusiastic child, pausing only for breath and to let his twin or their new acquaintance have their say.

I have a territory you can regain your footing on…

Jester was about to respond when he felt a sharp pain just above one hoof. He glanced towards the smaller mare at his side, his jaw snapping back shut before he could speak. Rook looked furious, and it was enough to make him step down from his self-appointed role. The way he let his head dip a couple inches wasn’t deferential, but it was a concession. It was the equivalent of a child saying yes, mother to a scolding monologue - even if they had every intention of repeating the behavior again in the future.

As soon as he fell silent, Rook’s tension seemed to ease. She even smiled at the stranger, though the warmth of the expression didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“Your offer is very kind,” she answered, tilting her head as well. “But we couldn’t possibly intrude on your hospitality - or give you false hopes. You see, my brother and I - we’re sort of a set. And I can’t imagine you would want another male in your home long-term.”

The warmth of her voice, at least, matched the warmth of her smile. It served to soften the words that she was certain would prove a barrier to the stallion’s long-term goal. After all, she - unlike Jester - was no fool. Any king worth his role sought to grow his kingdom. But if that growth included any competition, perceived or otherwise? Then it would be judged as more of a complication than it was worth. And Rook wasn’t out to complicate anyone’s existence - least of all her own.

Heavens knew Jester already managed that enough for them both, she thought, glancing at him with a fond sort of exasperation.

And the split-faced stallion - as if sensing her thoughts - managed to do exactly that.

“What my sister means is we’d be thrilled to take you up on your offer,” Jester cut in, determinedly ignoring another kick from his twin. “She’s just too polite to accept your kindness - but then, why would you offer if you were not willing?” For once, he’d dropped all pretense of humor, and spoke with the seriousness of an individual who recognized their plight.

They were exhausted after their travels. They needed to rest - but could not guarantee the safety of any place in a strange land.

This stranger could. Therefore, his offer was not only tempting, but also logical.

“However-” Jester continued after a brief pause. Had he actually been thinking before he spoke? Rook had been certain that the sky would break apart and fire rain down on them all before this moment would ever come. “We might have to ask at least one more small favor, if you could grant it. And that would be your name. After all, you have mine. And you will undoubtedly have my sister’s in short order. So should we not endeavor to make this an equal exchange?”

JESTER & ROOK
this is not where our story ends