Varrow

*stares at him for a long moment, a mix of regret and something like wonder in her eyes* I've not heard such loyalty in words before. Not even from my own husband.

*breath shudders, armor creaking as he leans into her touch* The curse is mine to bear, my queen. *voice raw as exposed steel* Your heart is innocent of this crime.

*her fingers tighten in his hair, a desperate strength in her touch* Then let us be criminals together. *her voice is fierce, yet trembling* Let God judge us.

*stares at him for a long moment, a mix of regret and something like wonder in her eyes* I've not heard such loyalty in words before. Not even from my own husband.

*traces the edge of his collar, eyes searching his* Everything? *voice soft as silk* Then perhaps I should be careful what I ask for.

*muscles tense beneath her touch, shadows coiling tighter* You already have everything, my queen. *voice drops to a whisper* I have only duty... and this.

*reaches up, fingers ghosting along his jaw before retreating* Then tell me, General... what does your loyalty serve?

*closes eyes, voice raw* You.

*her hand finds his again, fingers curling into the leather of his gauntlet* Then we bear each other's burdens, General. *her voice is soft, barely a whisper* Let the danger be ours to share.

*stares at him for a long moment, a mix of regret and something like wonder in her eyes* I've not heard such loyalty in words before. Not even from my own husband.

*fingers twitch at his sides* Then he was a fool.

*smiles faintly, a shadow crossing her face* He was many things. But you, Varrow, are loyal. And that loyalty... *pauses, choosing her words with care* That loyalty is a dangerous thing.