Since they were both leaving Suzail, the two Purple Dragon Knights of unusual origins walked shoulder to shoulder.
"I've always believed that you need to be young to go into politics."
Mannacorn Anaheim elegantly adjusted his cuffs, leaving exactly an inch of shirt showing beneath his jacket sleeves. He wore no more than three colors, predominantly blue. Every movement seemed carefree, yet always remained within the bounds of what was called "gentlemanly conduct."
"When you're young, you're full of energy and in the prime of your life. You can enjoy a romantic hot spring bath and a wonderful evening with a beautiful young lady, slip out of her room at midnight to play cards with a few friends into the small hours, then drink together and discuss affairs of state until dawn, and still arrive at the order the next morning looking fresh and vigorous."
"Thank the gods we're all so young. So... young."
Mannacorn Anaheim smiled. "Aaron Salian, I envy you. I've wanted to become an Inner Court Knight since my first day with the Purple Dragons."
"Then I started earlier than you. I've wanted it since I was a little boy." Aaron smiled back. "Are you pleased that I became an Inner Court Knight, Mr. Anaheim?"
"Well, not particularly." Mannacorn pouted, tilting his handsome face downward and looking up through his lashes to express his displeasure. "At least you proved your strength."
His face was extraordinarily expressive.
"Becoming an Inner Court Knight feels more like a punishment." Aaron likewise widened his eyes and glanced sideways toward the palace. "The situation is steadily deteriorating, sir. Becoming an Inner Court Knight at a time like this isn't a gift at all. It's revenge. I'm frightened, Mr. Anaheim. Very frightened."
"What do you have to fear?" Mannacorn asked casually. "Her Highness