[ ღ ] —- This game of hide and seek wasn’t very fun to him. He’d been searching for Owain for what felt like hours now. Not only could he not find the one he sought, but seeing all of the guards and people look down at him in curiosity—stares encircling him with all of the nervousness it brought him.
To not have someone hold onto his hand as he wandered aimlessly only made him uncomfortable. They were supposed to stay in a certain area, and somehow he’d managed to wander out of it. Inigo’s voice caught under layers of shyness, much like his mother’s before him. Asking for help was difficult, especially for a child with his characteristics. He would open his mouth, but no words would come. Fear was apparent in his iced hues, even at the voice that seemed to be directed at him.
Speaking was hard, but now it was moving that brought trouble. Inigo’s eyes caught hold of hers, and almost immediately did they flicker to the floor. He knew her not, and while she looked trustworthy, it was his own reservations that kept him at a safe distance.
Emmeryn loved the sounds of children in the castle. Her niece, Lucina, was old enough to be in training now, and Chrom spent time with her teaching her sword-skills almost every day. Owain, though, was still young enough to spend most of his time in elaborate games. He often liked to cajole his aunt into playing with him, as Emmeryn was always VERY good at pretend. She could act well and play the part of dragons, damsels, and villains alike for his epic conquests.
But sometimes the games were simple-- a game of hide and seek, for instance. Emmeryn had heard pattering little feet scampering down the hall not too long ago (that would be whoever was hiding). She knew that some of the other Shepherds had brought their children to the castle today, and so it was with some careful ears that she listened for the game to continue.
Yet time ticked on... and there were no giggles or chasing. In fact, there seemed to be a curious pause in whatever revelries Owain had started not too long ago.
The Exalt took this time for a break in her paperwork, and see if she couldn’t find out who had one the game while she went to fetch herself some tea.
Stepping out into the hall, she came face to face with a little boy. Pale haired, skin kissed by the sun, and big worried eyes that seemed to be terrified of everything around him. She smiled and tried greet him, but he only stared and appeared close to tears.
So Emmeryn knelt in front of the boy, coming to his height.
“Are you lost, by chance?” she asked gently. Lucky for this little fellow, Emmeryn had plenty of experience with children. “...There’s no need to worry, dear. My name is Emm... I can help you find your way if you like?”
