[ Her eyes catch his icy blue and her heart stops for a brief moment. Then, it pounds. A blush comes to her cheeks. Despite the state that he is in currently? She cannot help but find him so incredibly attractive. Not just because of his looks but his person as well. Perhaps saying her soul stirs at seeing him is hyperbolic. Yet, she feels the incredible sense of longing and desire to reach out and touch him. Not merely hold his hand, but to brush her fingers through his hair. Hold his face in her hands.

Things she has yet to earn in this lifetime... or earn at all to do.

The tension becomes obvious in his frame.

She gently squeezes his hand. ]

It has not. [ Phya shakes her head. ] They adore you. Your leadership. They trust you... and trust is not easy to come by in the world now, Ser.

[ Her tiny hands once again curl around his. ] You should not give up on them. Or yourself. For many? The Lord Commander is someone who makes sense in this world that no longer what it once was. The Calamity was decades ago, and yet, I still spoke with people who had memories of a time when Corethas was green. Ishgard standing and her Temple Knights are things people look to for stability and hope.

You may not feel it due to your current condition, but that does not change the truth. You have already proven yourself to the others around you. [ A shy look downwards is given. ] I heard many Knights speak highly of you over the years.

[ Then, a small sigh comes from her. She stands, squeezing his hand once more. ]

You need to rest. Sleep. I'll wake you when your bandages need changing. It may be easier for you to speak then.