Aeleus had always been the most reliable of the Apprentices
Aeleus had always been the most reliable of the Apprentices. When assigned a task he always got it done. Whenever help was needed he was willing to lend a hand. And no matter what kind of task needed to be done he would take it. Put simply: Aeleus was their rock. Always there. The one thing that was constant and dependable in their lives. At first sight one would think him stupid - all muscle and no brains.
But from the beginning Xehanort saw the vast knowledge and wisdom in the dark blue depths of his eyes. Xehanort saw just how much the others really depended upon the large man; even if they didn't realise it themselves. Even and Braig certainly had no idea. Dilan was so unreadable that it was hard to tell with him. Ienzo seemed to be the only other person who truly realised how essential Aeleus was to their way of life.
One day he cornered Aeleus in the hallways, demanding to know why he allowed things to continue this way. Why he didn't demand the respect and admiration he so greatly deserved. Aeleus had just looked straight into Xehanort's eyes calmly. Unblinking. Neither irritated nor angered by the younger man's actions. For a long time he said nothing as if he were looking right into the youngest apprentice's being.
"Because I do not need to be thanked or praised in order to know my presence is appreciated. The others know this." his voice was slow and deep. Every syllable deliberate. There was also something gentle about it... however it didn't mask the underlying note of strength that Xehanort detected.
As Aeleus walked away Xehanort realised just how much like a rock Aeleus really was. Strong and dependable. Hard and unrelenting. And yet supportive and passive.
And he knew that Aeleus would prove to be an essential component in the plans he was concocting. Yes. In fact he could prove vital to their success.
A/N: First in a series of thirteen for Lex Month. Hope you like it and if you have any ideas for any of the other members (apart from Zexion) then feel free to let me know