[ Almost instinctively, his hold on her tightens, not to the point of discomfort, but just to emphasize that he is here and he intends to do whatever he has to in order to protect her. The cry that escapes her causes his heart to twist inside him, and again, he worries that he has not and cannot truly help her with what she needs.

But he will not place yet another burden upon her, not when she already has so many that she carries. He lets her move his hand as she wills, and when she places it against the ties of her robes, he takes one of them in his hand but does not pull on it just yet. ]

I believe that I do. And more importantly, why should you not be like this? Why should you not feel what you are feeling?

[ With his other hand, he moves it to lightly hold onto hers. ]

If you are not feeling strong, then allow me to be your strength.

[ He leans in then so that he might place a kiss, light but loving, upon her cheek. ]

And as far as I am concerned, you are better as you are. You do not have to be anything but what and who you are, Lantaa, my dearest.