[ and what a heavy sigh that is he just sighed, she muses inwardly, quite intrigued as to which statement drew it out.

if she'd known that's how information is passed down from king to soldier in this place, she'd have a few words about it. but then, they'd be words she'd keep to herself, unwilling to meddle in palace affairs that don't involve her; it's enough that she's been dragged into this nation's politics and royalty.

still, her smile fades just a little at his question, and there's a bit of a pause before she responds to him, her gaze briefly turning distant. a moment later, she glances back at him, her smile returning on her lips. ]

He has a penchant for sleeping, I'm afraid.

[ though aether probably would've liked to see the garden, too. flowers that blossom underground, far away from the sun—it would've been a curiosity for her brother, one that he wouldn't hesitate to seek out just like her. ]

He's yet to stir from his sleep since our arrival in this world. [ it's not normal, but there's not much that she can do when he wouldn't rouse. ] Your king has assured me that I'll be informed the moment he wakes up.

[ a beat, as she peers at his face, eyes twinkling: ] Were you worried that he was left unattended and was currently running around the palace?