He can feel Dorian staring at him, and leans against the back of the chair and craning his neck to look up slightly at the other. His shoulders sink as Dorian speaks, not so much because of the other but he still felt so — he wasn’t sure what the word for it was. He hated being looked at so differently. He get it, he really did, but that didn’t mean it wore on him any less. It didn’t mean he wasn’t sick and tired of it.
“Please forget that, at least.” He pulls head head back down, shaking it. “I would’ve been dead if it wasn’t for those scouts and Luna tracking me down. Of course I was terrified.” He hates to recall the memory, and turns his eyes to the book he was holding in hopes to distract himself with it. “and maybe you’re right, and I believe others can be better, but believing hardly gets anything done. It got me into more trouble than not back home too.” He was far too nice, or at least that’s what people told him. His father loved that about him, that he could see the goodness of others, but he always did warn Noctis someone might try to take advantage of it some day- and many had definitely tried.
he can see the way the other’s mood drops – in the slump of his shoulders and the shift of his expression. (he can’t help but feel guilty for it. it is his fault, after all. he could have lied, could have said there was hope. but it’s too late to think about that.) a laugh answers the request, his head shaking a bit. “oh, i’m well aware,” he murmured, shifting his weight from the chair again to peruse the bookshelf.
“that doesn’t change the fact that it was vaguely entertaining. but only because i remember how overwhelming this place can be for the unfamiliar.” a hum answers the sentiment, a nod tugging on his chin. “believing in others is all well and good. so long as you don’t fool yourself into believing a lie. besides…if things do change, it will be a pleasant surprise – better that than a rude awakening.”
Noctis finally stands from the seat, if only to put the book back on the nearby shelf. Both of them knew he had been barely reading it anyways. Dorian had a point, as always. But he couldn’t help it if he wanted to see the best in people. He knew when to put his foot down, but still...
“I’ll suppose I’ll get used to it sooner or later.” He said, coming back around to the original question. As much as he didn’t want to, and didn’t think it was necessary, he can understand the reasoning of those not wanting to trust him (Hell, how many people back in tevinter even liked his family? He should be used to this in general by now).
“Another question for you Dorian.” Noctis was just full of questions today apparently. “These people, the inquisition, can I trust them?” He asks, folding his arms infront of his chest with a sigh. It’s not so much for his own benefit -- but he’s worried about Luna. He’s always, worried about Luna.
