[ He wishes that he could be by her side always, with nothing separating them. If only there was a way for him to acknowledge his long-held allegiance to his people and his newly found but no less meaningful love for her. He cannot shirk from his duties, but there is a part of him that so desperately longs for the freedom to always be with her. But that feels like such a selfish thought that he dare not give voice to it, not even to her.

What he can do, however, is sit beside her, even on the floor, and enjoy her company as he so thoroughly does. He drapes one arm over her shoulders, smiling as she settles herself in next to him. If she were to move so that she was seated in his lap, he would be surprised but he would not rebuff her. His household staff are not inclined to carry tales, although he can imagine that they would certainly be surprised at the sight. ]

Well, of course I do. I would be a poor host indeed if I did not. And perhaps I intend to spend a good portion of my time spoiling you. [ A wide smile spreads across his face at the notion, because he knows he would gladly do such a thing, showering her with all the gifts and love that he has.

But as she begins to demonstrate how the pendant works, his attention shifts so that he is solely focused on her and her explanation. ] Forgive me, for I must ask: who will protect you while you are away on your various adventures? I realize that you can handle yourself, but that does not stop me from worrying about your well-being, as well as your sister's.

[ He reaches for her hand that he might give it a firm yet somehow still gentle squeeze. Again, he wishes that he could accompany her wherever she goes, that he might act as her shield should she need him to, and perhaps even if she does not. ]