[ Death will be what parts their friendship--or if either entirely throws away their ideals. He hardly sees the latter happening. ]

Or, as I had said, you force the hand of fate. Put yourself forward for a few days of rest. I doubt any here would frown upon the notion for you. [ He is aware that his point will matter little. Once Aymeric has made a decision then he keeps to it. Unless facts and circumstances demand he changes it. ] But, chain yourself as much as you see fit. I doubt Hydaelyn Herself would change your mind.

Hm. Hopefully our paths will keep to themselves. Although, I very much doubt that.

[ Estinien would not see himself indebted to the Scions more than he already is; the little lordling especially. No doubt they would say there is no debt, but he sees it different. They saved his very soul when it would have been wiser to kill him. ]

Of course. Your family is naught else but politicians and soldiers. One would think it madness if you were not in love with the notion of serving Ishgard in such ways. Both ways, in fact.

[ The admittance makes his eyebrows shoot up. Had he been drinking anything? It would of--as politely as possible--ended back up in the cup. He falls quiet a moment as his mind jumps from name to face to discern who caught his best friend's eye.

Although, in truth, it is not hard to narrow it down. Only one person that he has seen makes Aymeric's mood shift to something brighter. Someone, who as he recalls, has an affinity to lillies. ]

While you turn the eye of many women, not many can say the same in reverse. Why is your engagement in such secrecy?