[ There are a great many wounds that are on her tender feeling heart, but she hesitates in sharing them. She does not wish to cause him hurts that cannot be healed. He carries far too many already; he need not carry those that King Thordan inflicted on her. Plenty of other weights she carry can be given to him, shared with him, lifted with him at her side.

Her head tilts into his hand, ear gently easing into his touch. She does not quiet melt into his hold as she might normally, as she holds onto him. ]

Never. [ Her tail curls beside her. ] You are my one and only. If you would follow me, then I will stop and offer my hand to you. You belong at my side, not behind me.

Interrupt all you wish. [ Alkaid opens her eyes and looks to the ceiling. ] What else would you have me speak of?