As she greeted him, a war transpired inside his soul. Emotions that had been given no quarter in his heart were suddenly there again, all at once. He watched her courtesy, her every motion calibrated by diligent social etiquette. She was an Empress in training long before she had ascended the throne of Aesthan and it was on flawless display. She was everything he remembered, and more. His lips parted as his longing for her was cut abruptly. His face was expressionless, though he fought to control the bottomless well of hatred it now poured out without reserve. He had never felt such force from what he harbored, 'I<i>hate</i>her...'. It knew what she represented to him, hope, and it hated her for it, 'You are mine! Do not forget what I have done for you. What you have done to others, it's too late!'<br/><br/>His eyes flashed a vicious vermilion, 'Silence! You have reaped your rewards for my choice... demon.. I owe you<i>nothing</i>. You are unwelcome, hide yourself from me..'<br/><br/>He felt the hatred subside, draw back, like blood flowing in reverse from a wellspring. Though a haunting laughter echoed in his mind, until finally at last they were alone.<br/><br/>'My name, is Sanguenon.' he told her plainly, to alleviate any disadvantage. 'I thank you, for your courtesy..' He bowed with equal precision, mimicking the male counterpart she was due for such a display. His left leg was extended and kept straight, while his weight was supported by his right leg that bent to lower him. His left hand held out toward her with his palm up, the right draped across his lower back. A perfect example of proper form. 'Such a show of respect is rarely afforded to one such as I..' he said as he returned to a casual position.<br/><br/>'I have no people, Empress. They're dead.' his tone was hollow, and cold. Though she would understand he invited no sympathy. 'Though a specter, I am.. to some...' he paused and the air was pregnant. 'I risk no station in my efforts to aid you, Empress. Only my own... life' his final word spoken as if he wasn't sure it was the proper descriptive term.