#roseknights

“And I you,” Silver spat back almost instantly. “But I’ve been alive for hundreds of years, shadowhunter. I have learned that there is more to life than bitter feuds between those in power and those with power.” He clapped his hands, almost as if he was dusting them off. “So, do we have a deal? You’ll save your petty judgments for after I save your friend?”

A moment of hesitation passed, then two. Riddle continued to stare at the ground. “Fine.”

Riddle found himself smiling at the barely-contained, hyper-active mess before him. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Sebek.” Pressing his lips together, he looked to the side, catching the other boy's eyes. “And you as well. Silver, it was?” He knew what it was. The word had been ringing through his head since Sebek had said it, but no one needed to know that. Nodding, Silver stuck out an arm, one of his legs bending to put him into a slight bow. It was the kind of bow the knights used to greet Riddle’s parents, the kind that showed respect but wasn’t over the top. Riddle took his hand, the warmth of Silver’s skin spreading to his own and through his entire body. He was sure he was flushing the same color as his hair, but he ignored it, composing himself as Silver rightened. “Pleasure to be here.” His voice was smooth, soaring through the air like a birdsong. Riddle nearly fell over at the sound.

-

Riddle Rosehearts was his name. Sophomore, just like Silver. Top of the grade, perhaps one of the top in the school. Silver didn’t know much about him other than the fact he was a loner, and that no one got in his way.

He remembered, vaguely, that the other kids referred to him as ‘the tyrant.’ It was a nickname he had earned freshman year, at the same welcome orientation Silver had gained his reputation. He didn’t know exactly why they called him that. But granted, he had fallen asleep, so who knows what might have happened while he was out.

The two held each other's eyes for a moment, and Silver felt heat creep to his cheeks. He had never really gotten a good look at Riddle before this, and there was something about him he was seeing now that he was stunned to have never noticed before.