Trust. The word is bitter on his tongue because Castile has only ever been capable of relying on his family. Outsiders have betrayed him, scoffed him, opposed him. And yet Litotes requested that of him. In the moment, Castile’s blood boiled with uncertainty as his scrutiny fell harshly across the stallion’s face. Since then, however, he has toyed with the idea. Certainly, it can play into his favor. If not, he at least still holds the crown on his head to strip away and take back his hospitality and graciousness. It would be an easy fix, he muses, as his eyes idly sweep across Loess until finding Litotes.

A habitual rumble vibrates through him as he meticulously steps down from the short, rocky outcropping. A serpent hisses in response, coiling itself beneath the offered shade. Castile responds with a dismissive growl before turning and moving purposefully away.

”Litotes,” funny how a prisoner has found comfort and a place among an enemy. He wasn’t truly meant for Hyalilne – that much is obvious. Fate steered him into the right direction, right into the longing embrace of Loess. Is this a place of misfits? Castile can certainly relate as he fleetingly reflects on his life and how aimless it had been except when he was here. Funny how life seems to already have a path in mind for its small chess pieces. He is grateful, of course, for this opportunity and for the ability to forge something great. With the strongest at his side, anything and everything will be possible.

Castile reflects nothing of his reptilian attributes. Everything is suppressed, even his fiery temper as his gaze drinks in the sight of the shifter. ”You want me to trust you, so I will. You can lead my battalion – the Talons – as, let’s say, my Marauder.” It’s likely unexpected, to go from prisoner to a highly-ranked soldier, but Castile can be gracious and kind to those deserving. ”Earn my full trust working and meeting the soldiers. Maybe after that – after you prove your good intentions toward me – I will figure out something greater for you.” Steps, he thinks, baby steps to properly earn his merit.

”I have my wise moments,” he jests with a smug grin and bright eyes. Although fiery and impulsive, he isn’t an idiot. It would’ve been simpler to release Litotes back into the world and back into the East from where he came. Everything could’ve ended there – the political hostility, the mistrust – but Castile had different priorities and a new agenda. While Kagerus and Solace found Litotes disposable, Castile sees a man of opportunities.

They are both predatory, both ambitious. They’ve had women but also have strayed. They are not meek pawns.
It seems only natural for an odd, respectful friendship to emerge.

Admittedly, Castile is relieved to see Litote’s enthusiasm and agreement with the granted position. A placid nod follows before he looks toward the hills and maps out the residents. ”There is Sochi and Pteron. Brigade is a prisoner that wants to be utilized for his fighting. Maybe Wolfbane, and Vulgaris has remained the Champion. We may have another one or two in addition to you.” The battlegrounds to the south are more often vacant than not. Although kingdoms have armies, very few actually fight. It will be a matter of enticement in the near future, a lure strong enough to increase their numbers and strength. ”I agree,” he adds with a sideways glance, blinking thoughtfully prior to finally focusing again on the man. ”I want us to be a formidable force…” then, with a gleam in his eye, he smugly adds, ”you know, just in case Beqanna doesn’t appreciate our direction.”

War isn’t on his mind, but mayhem? Yes. He wants to stir life among them all, to elicit a loyal bond and interest within Loess. The outside regions may churn angrily, unsettled by waves in the pond. They may retaliate, but Castile can only hope to be appropriately prepared. Another order, another matter, slides into his thoughts as they consider the army and its soldiers. ”Perhaps, I will open up a challenge for the Champion to anyone wanting the title.” A thought spoken aloud as Castile’s mind schemes.