[ Alkaid places the cane upon her back to rest. Her hand remains in his, but the other gently rests on his side where the wound from his assassination attempt rests. She knows that the wound aches more the colder it is. Clearly, it is not the wound that bothers her beloved knight. The far away look in his eyes and tension in his chest is enough of a tell for her. After all, how often does her mind also retreat into moments that threaten to pull her away from the present?

He will find no look of judgement on her face nor hint of annoyance. Simply a gentle expression and understanding in her eyes. Alkaid places her chin on his chest, head tilted back as far as she can, gaze locked on his. She will not inquiry to his state of being at the moment. That can wait for when they are together for the night and somewhere safer.

Her fingers slip between his and squeezes his hand. ]

Aymeric.

[ His name is said gently and with care, similar to the tone she had once used with their first night together. One spent learning one another and of the hurt that he buries down so deep. One that only happened because of Nidhogg temporarily disrupting an attempt at peace. She gently presses her fingers to his side as if to say that she will attend to him as soon as she is able. ]

I am here at your side, as I ever will be, even if I am far away.

[ Her head tilts then to nudge her cheek to his chest. Then, another squeeze is given to his hand. ]

Let us go quickly. Neither of us should be in the elements for long.