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For someone as tall and big as Quincy, Dante almost fainted at the sight of him kneeling before him. All proper and poised, Quincy has one knee bent on the floor, his head bowed in respect. Sure, Dante is used into being revered— especially his people in Solaria. But that was the thing, Quincy is not part of Solaria nor one of his people. He is a big man who lives in the forest in the Wood Territory, the Guardian of it even, the protector of tribes. It takes hours of carriage ride just to cross the borders of Solaria and to the Light Territory, then an hour of travel again to even arrive at the entrance of the forest—
In short, they are far apart.
And Quincy had come in a bad time for friendly chitchats and casual conversations.
The palace had been on full formal behavior since two days ago, and though it was draining Dante just as much, an envoy— another noble merchant from the Light Territory— had a reputation of being meticulous, perfectionist, and a traditionalist. And Dante had already used a fair share of "Solarian Etiquette" excuse, any more and the noble might as well just leave in fury. He can't have that.
And that is when Quincy comes in, accompanying Eiden for a short trip to check in on the altar. Eiden went to the altar, Quincy went to the palace. And before anyone could even say a single word, Quincy was maneuvered into his knees in front of Dante to pay respects. All this solely for the noble that was passing by in the hallway.
To be completely honest, the whole charade is starting to get into Dante's skin. Even as a leader, he knows his boundaries and duties. He stood true into being a leader, but he was never snobbish nor too friendly, neither foolish nor tyranny. Though he mingles himself regularly to the people, they know the line between common people and their Lord. The behavior in Light Territory where one's pride is measured to their wealth is just utter ridiculous.
So now, seeing Quincy— a close... person in Dante's life— being forced to kneel as if he is such an insignificant part of his life could be a little infuriating. To say the least.
“Sun Lord.”
Deep and low voice snapped Dante out of his thoughts. Quincy is now looking up to him, laying out his hand.
Dante inhaled. He does not like this kind of farce, but he raised his own hand to place it shakily on Quincy's waiting hand.
“...Blessings to the Gifted Sun of Solaria.”
It was an old traditional greeting used by his ancestors, 'the Gifted Sun' being a famous title for the Sun Lord that inspired many ballads and plays. Dante's parents never got around to using it, and neither did he, and Dante thought that it was the end of it. Until this very moment.
Quincy's lips were soft and light when it touches the back of his hand. Eyes closed and even held Dante's hand as if it was a priceless treasure. Dante wished that the blush on his heated cheek was not visible— or perhaps he wished that that damned noble is already gone and away to see this happen.
When Quincy looked back up, he tilted his head, “Sun Lord?”
As if burnt, Dante pulled his hand away and turned around in a hurry. “I've prepared both of your rooms already. Come along.”
Truly... has Solaria suddenly got hit by a heat wave?