Was this for you?

Raph chuckled softly at her teasing, the lightness in their banter a familiar and comforting dance. He appreciated this side of Adaria, the way she could balance the weight of her responsibilities with moments of levity. But as she spoke more seriously, he listened intently, his gaze never leaving hers.

Her words carried a gravity that he understood all too well. The weight of the crown was not just a burden; it was a commitment to an entire nation. He could see the determination in her eyes, a fierce resolve that mirrored his own.

Adaria, he said softly, his tone matching her seriousness. I understand the stakes. This isn't just about us. It's about the future of Antiva, and I understand that, I am Antivan after all my dear princess."

He felt a pang of sorrow at the mention of her parents. Their deaths were a heavy reminder of the dangers that came with their roles. Raph reached out, gently squeezing her hand in a silent show of support.

[q]One step at a time, he echoed, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. That's all we can do. And I realise that making a promise like, I’ll be with you always is foolish, no one can really make that promise.

The mention of her decision to go to the University of Orlais took him by surprise, but he quickly understood the wisdom in it. It was a strategic move, one that would keep her safe while also allowing her to continue her education.

Orlais, huh? Your aunt will have her hands full with you, he teased lightly, though there was a genuine warmth in his eyes. I will visit, announced or otherwise. You can count on that.

As she placed soft kisses along his jaw, he felt a warmth spread through him, a reminder of the closeness they shared. Her request brought a playful glint to his eye.

Helping a princess into something comfortable? I think I can manage that, he said with a grin. And I'd love to hear about the best trellis to climb and when to avoid your aunt's security. Sounds like quite the adventure.

@Adaria Campana

Again she felt words leave her, stranded, without a reply. He claimed to understand the choice, the path that could spell them both the same fate as her Father and Mother, one of suffering and pain. Yet there was still that niggling doubt. Yes, he was nobility, but it was not the same as being part of the Royal house; the sacrifices it demanded cut one down to blood and bone then more, even if you’d already bled dry for it once already.

The soft smile she wore in the quiet moments began to emerge, Wise, but perhaps you should also become acquainted with a friend of mine. An elf. Knowing each other will benefit you both. She would worry less, not that Adaria doubted he couldn’t take care of himself, but that her and Zevran’s plans weren’t also snagged by the strings that tied them.

A glint of mischief returned in her eye, I think it’s going to be fun, my Grandmother complained endlessly about her, but she really is well accomplished and fun. She had no real concerns living with Mica until she had recovered enough in fact it was perfectly acceptable for her as the youngest to visit and stay with the grieving sibling.

Chuckling at his words, her breath danced across the damp skin with a gentle sigh. I’m sure you can, though usually it’s you helping me out of something rather than into anything. I’m sure you’ve a spare nightshirt I can borrow before you lay us down in your bed? She was too weak to lift herself out unaided, the result of her reckless revenge leaving her putty in his hands.

@Rafael Acosta

Rafael listened intently, his eyes softening as she spoke. He could see the weight of her words and the doubts that lingered in her eyes. He reached out, gently taking her hand in his, offering silent reassurance.

Acquainted with an elf, you say? he mused with a smile. It sounds like an intriguing prospect. If you trust them, then I am sure they are worth knowing. Besides, it's always good to have more allies, especially in these times. Sure he was of noble birth, but his parents had always been much lower in society than would be preferred as a match for Adaria, but that didn’t phase him any of course.

The glint of mischief in her eyes brought a chuckle from him. Is there anyone your grandmother didn’t complain about? Or at least, those were always the rumours that swirled around Antiva.

Her mention of needing a nightshirt made his smile widen. He brushed a strand of hair away from her face, his touch tender. Of course, I have just the thing. And I must admit, I rather enjoy helping you out of things as much as into them.

With gentle care, Rafael lifted her, carrying her towards the bed. She was light in his arms, a testament to the trials she had endured, but there was a strength in her that he admired deeply. He placed her down gently, making sure she was comfortable before retrieving a spare nightshirt for her.

Helping her into it, he couldn't help but smile at the intimacy of the moment, a stark contrast to the chaos and danger they often found themselves in. Once she was settled, he slipped into bed beside her, pulling the covers over them both.

He wrapped an arm around her, holding her close. Rest now, my love. We will face whatever comes together. You are not alone. He meant it too, even if she ended up having to marry someone else, he’d still stand by her, no matter what.

As the room grew quiet, the only sound was their breathing, slowly synchronising. The warmth of the bed and the comfort of each other's presence began to lull them into a peaceful sleep, leaving the worries of the world outside the door for another night.


@Adaria Campana