In the dim candlelight of their private chamber, Validar's muscular arms enveloped Gabriella's waist as she sat comfortably across his lap. The warmth of the hearth cast flickering shadows on the walls, dancing in tune with the gentle sway of the curtains. Her green eyes, a stark contrast to her dark, curly hair, searched his face, seeking reassurance. The room was a sanctuary amidst the chaos of the city still recovering from the recent siege. Their conversations had traveled many topics as the hours passed. Neither seemed to notice, so comfortable and relaxed in each other's presence.
"Gabriella, my love," Validar began, his voice a soothing rumble that resonated deep within her. "As soon as the winter's grip loosens, I trust you are planning to leave Corunglain and return to your family's caravans?"
Her heart fluttered at the mention of parting. "Yes," she said softly. "But what of you? I heard whispers of Fort Fletcher, that it has fallen to some...horde. Will you be joining the king's forces to reclaim it?"
Validar nodded, his eyes reflecting the flame's intensity. "Indeed, my love. King Victor has entrusted the Guardians of Light with the mission to retake the fort and hold it until reinforcements arrive. This task is ours and ours alone." His grip on her tightened slightly, as if the thought of the impending battle was a physical weight on his shoulders.
Gabriella felt a tear slip down her cheek, tracing a warm path along her jawline. "But darling," she whispered, her voice trembling with the weight of her emotion, "that means we'll be apart for the entire winter." The thought of the cold, long months without his comfort and protection filled her with a deep, aching sadness.
Validar's expression grew solemn as he wiped away the tear with the pad of his thumb. "I know, sweetheart," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "But I must do my duty. The realm depends on us to keep the invading horde at bay." His eyes searched hers, looking for understanding and support. “And I cannot have you come along. It’s too dangerous.”
Gabriella took a deep, shaky breath, her gaze dropping to her intertwined hands resting on her lap. "I understand," she murmured, though the words felt heavy in her mouth. "Fort Fletcher is no place for a lady such as myself."
Validar tipped her chin up to meet his gaze. "You're more than a lady, Gabriella. You're a beacon of hope in these troubled times." He paused, stroking her cheek. "But I cannot ask you to face such danger."
Gabriella's eyes searched his, her resolve firm. "What if I stopped in Pyris instead?" she suggested, her voice a soft echo in the quiet room. "It would be safe, and much closer than my home in Crossroads. I could wait for you there, help with any recovery efforts."
Validar's expression softened, his gaze lingering on her for a long moment before he spoke. "Pyris would welcome you, of that I have no doubt." His thumb traced the line of her jaw, a silent promise of protection.
Gabriella felt a spark of hope ignite within her. "And your family, they would not mind?" she asked, her eyes searching his for any hesitation.
"I am certain they would find you as adorable as I do, my love."
Gabriella felt a warmth spread through her at his words, but she was still unsure. "What if I could be more than just a guest, Validar?" Her eyes searched his, hinting at a plan forming in her mind.
"What do you mean?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.
"I could offer my assistance in organizing supplies, managing the keep," she said, her voice gaining strength with each word. "My mother taught me much about the logistics of running a large household. I could be of use to your family while you're away."
Validar's eyes lit up at the idea. "That is... surprising, but potentially brilliant, Gabriella." He leaned in, kissing her forehead gently. "The Baroness might enjoy to have your help, and my sister certainly could use the influence. She's determined to follow in my footsteps. Another woman in the castle might be good for her," he added with a chuckle.
Gabriella's eyes shone with excitement. "Then it is settled," she declared, a happy smile enveloping her entire face. "I will go to Pyris. I would expect you'd return there over the winter, wouldn't you?"
"Yes of course. But, my love," Validar said, stroking her cheek, "how do you intend to explain your sudden appearance to my family? It might be a tad awkward to just show up and claim to be the beloved of the Baron's son."
Gabriella's smile faltered for a moment before she straightened her shoulders. "I already met with your mother when I brought your armor to Pyris for you," she explained, her voice firm with determination. "I considered sending a letter ahead by messenger. But I fear it would not arrive any sooner than I would with the caravan."
A worried expression then overtook her. "They might think me a charlatan," she mused, "but I believe in the strength of our bond. They will see the truth in my eyes and feel the warmth of our connection."
Validar nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "That, they very well might," he said with a hint of pride. "But we should prepare something. A symbol of our intent, perhaps."
He reached into the pocket of his tunic and pulled out a small pouch, the leather worn and familiar. From within, he produced a silver ring, the band adorned with an intricate design of entwined vines and leaves. The stone at its center, a deep blue sapphire, gleamed in the firelight. "This belonged to my mother," he said, holding it out to her. "It's the only piece of jewelry I have to give you that carries the crest of House Pyris."
Her eyes widened as she took the ring, feeling the weight of its history and significance. "It's beautiful," she murmured, her voice hushed with reverence. "It will serve as proof of our bond, and a symbol of hope during your absence."
Validar took the ring from her and gently slid it onto her finger. "It looks perfect," he said with a smile, "just like you."
The ring fit snugly, the warmth of the metal seeming to pulse with the beat of her heart. It was a tangible reminder of their connection, a silent declaration to the world of their love.
Fireside Promises (6)
Fireside Promises (6)
Conquer or Die!
Re: Fireside Promises (6)
Gabriella's eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned in closer to Validar, her dark curls brushing against his shoulder. They sat in the quiet solace of the private room he had secured for them, the candles flickering shadows on the walls and casting a warm glow on her bronzed skin. She spoke softly, her accent a blend of Cynalon and her mother's Zakhara roots. "I've been thinking, my love," she began looking at the ring on her hand, a hint of excitement in her voice. "After the Guardian's feast tonight, I have a special plan for us."
Validar's eyes met hers with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "Oh?" he said, raising an eyebrow. "Do tell, my lady. The party may go late into the evening."
Gabriella's smile grew wider, revealing a set of perfect white teeth. She took a deep breath, her chest rising with excitement. "It will most likely," she agreed with him. "But first, tell me, will the feast be a formal affair? I fear my current attire may not be quite... suitable for the occasion." She glanced down at her simple yet elegant ensemble of loose-fitting pants and a billowy blouse, in shades of gold and red that reflected her Zakharan heritage.
"It will just be a gathering of friends," Validar answers. "No need to dress fancily. I plan to change this shirt before we go," he says indicating himself. "Most of the group will prefer to be comfortable in a private occasion such as this. You would be fine the way you are, beautiful as always."
Gabriella smiles and nods. "I understand," she says, her mind thoughtful. "I am sure I can come up with something that will suit the mood of the evening perfectly. Besides, it's not every day that one gets to celebrate such a huge victory of their beloved," she adds with a wink.
"So what is this special plan of yours?" Validar said, pulling her closer to him.
Gabriella's eyes twinkled with a secret. "I was hoping," she whispered, her breath warm against his cheek, "that we could spend the night together."
Validar's heart skipped a beat. "Together?" He asked, his voice thick with the surprising question in the air.
Gabriella laughed lightly, placing a hand on his forearm. "No, no, my dear," she clarified, her eyes dancing with mirth. "I didn't mean in that way, though I'm sure that will come in time," she teased, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I meant we could share a room for the night." She looked away briefly. "If we are going to be apart during the winter, I would like to know what it is like to fall asleep nestled together."
Validar's expression softened as he realized her meaning. "Of course," he said, his voice gentle. "I would love nothing more than to have you by my side tonight. You are often the last thought that fills my mind before sleep."
"And mine, my love," Gabriella quickly responded. "It will be comforting on the days we cannot be together to know the feeling of waking in your arms."
They sat in the quiet room for a moment, basking in the glow of the candlelight and their shared anticipation. Validar felt a warmth in his chest that was more than just the heat from the nearby fireplace. He had never felt this way about anyone or anything, not even during his days as a young squire dreaming of battles and glory.
The moment was broken by a soft knock which echoed through the chamber. "My lord, my lady," a muffled voice called from the other side of the door. "The hour draws near. The gathering will begin in one hour, as you requested."
Validar squeezed Gabriella's hand reassuringly and led her to the door. "I will meet you in forty-five minutes, my love. Bring your appetite, as Lyonessa and Argent are sure to have created a magnificent spread."
The couple shared a warm smile, the kind that could melt the coldest of winters. As Validar left the room, Gabriella felt a flutter of excitement in her stomach. Life had changed so much in the past few days, just as her grandfather's favorite saying had forewarned. With a sense of urgency, she thought what would fit the mood of the gathering without being too fancy, searching for the perfect outfit for the evening. A smile lit up her face as she decided and quickly headed to her room to change.
In her trunk, she found a set of clothes that she had packed almost as an afterthought. A soft, deep blue tunic that matched the color of the evening sky, with silver embroidery that reflected the moon's glow. The pants were loose and comfortable, made of a material that whispered against her skin as she moved. It was a set that her mother had given her, a blend of the practicality of Cynalon and the elegance of Zakhara. Now, it seemed fitting for the casual yet significant occasion ahead.
Validar's eyes met hers with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "Oh?" he said, raising an eyebrow. "Do tell, my lady. The party may go late into the evening."
Gabriella's smile grew wider, revealing a set of perfect white teeth. She took a deep breath, her chest rising with excitement. "It will most likely," she agreed with him. "But first, tell me, will the feast be a formal affair? I fear my current attire may not be quite... suitable for the occasion." She glanced down at her simple yet elegant ensemble of loose-fitting pants and a billowy blouse, in shades of gold and red that reflected her Zakharan heritage.
"It will just be a gathering of friends," Validar answers. "No need to dress fancily. I plan to change this shirt before we go," he says indicating himself. "Most of the group will prefer to be comfortable in a private occasion such as this. You would be fine the way you are, beautiful as always."
Gabriella smiles and nods. "I understand," she says, her mind thoughtful. "I am sure I can come up with something that will suit the mood of the evening perfectly. Besides, it's not every day that one gets to celebrate such a huge victory of their beloved," she adds with a wink.
"So what is this special plan of yours?" Validar said, pulling her closer to him.
Gabriella's eyes twinkled with a secret. "I was hoping," she whispered, her breath warm against his cheek, "that we could spend the night together."
Validar's heart skipped a beat. "Together?" He asked, his voice thick with the surprising question in the air.
Gabriella laughed lightly, placing a hand on his forearm. "No, no, my dear," she clarified, her eyes dancing with mirth. "I didn't mean in that way, though I'm sure that will come in time," she teased, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I meant we could share a room for the night." She looked away briefly. "If we are going to be apart during the winter, I would like to know what it is like to fall asleep nestled together."
Validar's expression softened as he realized her meaning. "Of course," he said, his voice gentle. "I would love nothing more than to have you by my side tonight. You are often the last thought that fills my mind before sleep."
"And mine, my love," Gabriella quickly responded. "It will be comforting on the days we cannot be together to know the feeling of waking in your arms."
They sat in the quiet room for a moment, basking in the glow of the candlelight and their shared anticipation. Validar felt a warmth in his chest that was more than just the heat from the nearby fireplace. He had never felt this way about anyone or anything, not even during his days as a young squire dreaming of battles and glory.
The moment was broken by a soft knock which echoed through the chamber. "My lord, my lady," a muffled voice called from the other side of the door. "The hour draws near. The gathering will begin in one hour, as you requested."
Validar squeezed Gabriella's hand reassuringly and led her to the door. "I will meet you in forty-five minutes, my love. Bring your appetite, as Lyonessa and Argent are sure to have created a magnificent spread."
The couple shared a warm smile, the kind that could melt the coldest of winters. As Validar left the room, Gabriella felt a flutter of excitement in her stomach. Life had changed so much in the past few days, just as her grandfather's favorite saying had forewarned. With a sense of urgency, she thought what would fit the mood of the gathering without being too fancy, searching for the perfect outfit for the evening. A smile lit up her face as she decided and quickly headed to her room to change.
In her trunk, she found a set of clothes that she had packed almost as an afterthought. A soft, deep blue tunic that matched the color of the evening sky, with silver embroidery that reflected the moon's glow. The pants were loose and comfortable, made of a material that whispered against her skin as she moved. It was a set that her mother had given her, a blend of the practicality of Cynalon and the elegance of Zakhara. Now, it seemed fitting for the casual yet significant occasion ahead.
Conquer or Die!
Re: Fireside Promises (6)
The Guardians dinner had player posts in it throughout a few posts. Acerion and Ivy announced their betrothal in Post #65.
The evening had been filled with laughter, camaraderie, and tales of valor, the air in the hall thick with the aroma of roasting meats and the clinking of goblets. Gabriella had listened intently to the stories of the Guardians' recent adventures, her eyes lighting up with each victory and narrowing with concern at the mention of danger. The Guardians were a relatively tight-knit group, their bond forged by the fires of battle, and she felt a pang of longing to directly share in their experiences. But tonight was about more than battles and bravado.
As the evening grew late, Lyonessa, the bard of the group, had taken to the stage. Her melodious voice filled the room, weaving a tapestry of words and notes that painted the story of the siege of Corunglain. Her eyes closed, she sang in a trance-like state, each word a brushstroke on the canvas of the listener's mind. The ballad was hauntingly beautiful, depicting the horrors of war with a delicate touch that made the room fall silent, entranced by the narrative she wove.
The feast had gone late into the evening, filled with laughter, dancing and reminiscing. Now the group had broken up, each going their own ways in singles and pairs for the night. Gabriella led Validar to the room she had prepared for them to share their first night together.
The room was small but cozy, the fireplace casting a warm glow across the walls. There was no actual bed as the room was just a small study. However, a pile of fur blankets and soft pillows, invited them to rest and share in the warmth of each other's embrace. Gabriella was nervous. She smiled at her man with big eyes. "I hope you like the ambience," she added.
Validar took her hand in his and led her to the makeshift bed. "It's perfect," he said, his voice low and filled with affection. They moved into the room, hand in hand, and stood near their shared bed for the night He leaned in and kissed her forehead. "Thank you for being here, Gabriella."
"I wouldn't want to be any other place," she cooed at him.
The room was indeed small, but it was enough for them. It had a charm that no grand ballroom or castle suite could match tonight. It was theirs, a sanctuary from the outside world. "Nor I, my love. I was a bit surprised when you first suggested the idea to share tonight like this. But I must now admit that I am so pleased to be here with you."
With that, Gabriella felt the heat rising to her cheeks and she took a deep breath. "I cannot sleep in these clothes, my knight," she said, trying to keep her voice steady. "May I have your shirt please?"
Without a word, Validar pulled his shirt over his head, revealing his muscular torso, a testament to his years of training and battles. He offered it to her, the fabric warm from his body, and she took it gratefully, feeling the softness of the material under her fingertips. The scent of him filled her nose. It was a scent that comforted her, reminding her of the warmth of his arms and the strength of his embrace.
She smiled at him and then gave him a mischievous look. "You need to turn around, while I change."
Validar chuckled and did as he was asked, his back to her as she undressed and slipped into his shirt. She checked over her shoulder to see if he was watching or not. The fabric was too large for her, but she found comfort in its size, feeling as if she was being wrapped in his arms even without him holding her. As she let her bare feet sink into the fur rugs, she felt a sense of freedom and vulnerability that she hadn't felt in a long time.
When she turned back to him, his eyes widened slightly, taking in her form in his shirt. The garment hung off one shoulder, revealing more than a hint of her collarbone and the swell of her breasts. Her skin was kissed by the firelight, giving her an ethereal glow. He took a step closer to her, his hand reaching out to gently caress her dark curly hair. Their eyes met and in that moment, the air between them was charged with an electric current that neither could deny.
Gabriella bit her lip slightly. "You didn't look," she said with a smile that reached all the way to her eyes.
Validar's gaze never left hers as he replied, "I am a knight of honor, my love. I would never peek unless invited."
Her smile grew as she took his hand, leading him to the fur-covered mound beside the fire. "Then I invite you," she responded, her voice barely above a whisper. "To lie with me, to keep me warm, to share this night."
Validar felt his heart swell with love and affection for this woman who had captured his heart so fully and so unexpectedly. He lay down beside her, pulling her closer so that her head rested on his chest. He could feel the steady rhythm of her heart beating against his own. The warmth of their bodies melded together, creating a cocoon of comfort and protection.
"Today has been much more like the days we had in Gateway, my love," she said quietly. "I don't want to even think about you leaving for Fort Fletcher tomorrow."
Validar tightened his arms around her, feeling the warmth of her body against his. "And I don't wish to think about it either," he replied, his voice deep with feeling. "We have tonight. And that is all we need right now."
They lay there, their breathing syncing together as the fire crackled in the background. The weight of the day's events and the looming separation didn't seem so heavy in that moment. "Lyonessa is quite the singer," Gabriella admired.
"Indeed," Validar agreed, stroking her hair gently. "Her talents are unmatched. Her words have the power to heal and to inspire."
"It was interesting to see several pairings tonight: Argent and Chareos. And I noticed Sherra and Yusef seemed to be flirting a bit. But it was especially heart-warming to see your friend, Sir Acerion, announce the engagement to the priestess Ivy."
"Ah, yes," Validar said with a proud smile. "Acerion is a good man, and Ivy is a woman of strength and compassion. They'll make a fine couple."
Gabriella nodded, snuggling closer to him. "I'm happy for them. But it does make me think of us, Validar." She tilted her head up to look at him, her green eyes searching his face in the firelight. "When we are together, it feels like everything is right in the world. And yet, we are soon to be torn apart by duty and destiny."
"We will never be truly apart. I feel like I now carry a part of you deep and well protected in my heart." He returned her gaze, looking deeply into her eyes. "And the time apart will only make reuniting that much more special."
Gabriella nodded, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I know," she whispered. "But it still scares me. The world is still such a dangerous place."
"My companions are dangerous people. Your concern may be better placed for our enemies," Validar said with a chuckle trying to defuse the mood slightly.
Gabriella's smile returned and she nodded. "Perhaps so," she said, her voice filled with the warmth of their shared laughter. "But I can't help but worry about you. You're going to a place that no one has been recently, facing unknown dangers."
"I thought we weren't going to talk about tomorrow," he said as he jostled her about gently in his embrace.
Gabriella leaned into him, her smile sad. "I know. But I care about you, my love." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "You’re right. Let's not speak of it anymore tonight. Let's just enjoy this moment."
Validar nodded, stroking her arm. "As you wish." They lay there, the warmth of the fire and each other's bodies a comfort against the coolness of the night outside. They were silent for a long time, Gabriella's head resting on his bare chest. He could feel her breathing softly, contentedly.
As the night deepened, the sounds of the city grew faint and the only noises were the crackling of the fire and the occasional muffled laugh from a distant room. The candles had burned low, casting the room in a warm, flickering glow.
Validar carefully felt the curves of her body as he gently caressed her skin. She murmured happy noises, on the verge of sleep.
Gabriella felt a sense of peace wash over her, a rare luxury in these times of conflict and uncertainty. She closed her eyes and listened to the steady thump of Validar's heart, the sound a comforting lullaby that promised protection and warmth.
"Gabriella," he whispered into the softness of her hair. "I will always come back to you, my love." Validar closed his eyes and finally allowed himself to drift off as well.
The night passed in a haze of warmth and comfort. The candles burned out and the fire slowly died down to embers, but they didn't notice. Their sleep was deep and peaceful, entwined in each other's arms.
As dawn approached, the first light of day began to peek through the cracks in the shutters, casting a soft glow across the room. The air grew chilly, but their bodies remained entwined, generating their own warmth.
The evening had been filled with laughter, camaraderie, and tales of valor, the air in the hall thick with the aroma of roasting meats and the clinking of goblets. Gabriella had listened intently to the stories of the Guardians' recent adventures, her eyes lighting up with each victory and narrowing with concern at the mention of danger. The Guardians were a relatively tight-knit group, their bond forged by the fires of battle, and she felt a pang of longing to directly share in their experiences. But tonight was about more than battles and bravado.
As the evening grew late, Lyonessa, the bard of the group, had taken to the stage. Her melodious voice filled the room, weaving a tapestry of words and notes that painted the story of the siege of Corunglain. Her eyes closed, she sang in a trance-like state, each word a brushstroke on the canvas of the listener's mind. The ballad was hauntingly beautiful, depicting the horrors of war with a delicate touch that made the room fall silent, entranced by the narrative she wove.
The feast had gone late into the evening, filled with laughter, dancing and reminiscing. Now the group had broken up, each going their own ways in singles and pairs for the night. Gabriella led Validar to the room she had prepared for them to share their first night together.
The room was small but cozy, the fireplace casting a warm glow across the walls. There was no actual bed as the room was just a small study. However, a pile of fur blankets and soft pillows, invited them to rest and share in the warmth of each other's embrace. Gabriella was nervous. She smiled at her man with big eyes. "I hope you like the ambience," she added.
Validar took her hand in his and led her to the makeshift bed. "It's perfect," he said, his voice low and filled with affection. They moved into the room, hand in hand, and stood near their shared bed for the night He leaned in and kissed her forehead. "Thank you for being here, Gabriella."
"I wouldn't want to be any other place," she cooed at him.
The room was indeed small, but it was enough for them. It had a charm that no grand ballroom or castle suite could match tonight. It was theirs, a sanctuary from the outside world. "Nor I, my love. I was a bit surprised when you first suggested the idea to share tonight like this. But I must now admit that I am so pleased to be here with you."
With that, Gabriella felt the heat rising to her cheeks and she took a deep breath. "I cannot sleep in these clothes, my knight," she said, trying to keep her voice steady. "May I have your shirt please?"
Without a word, Validar pulled his shirt over his head, revealing his muscular torso, a testament to his years of training and battles. He offered it to her, the fabric warm from his body, and she took it gratefully, feeling the softness of the material under her fingertips. The scent of him filled her nose. It was a scent that comforted her, reminding her of the warmth of his arms and the strength of his embrace.
She smiled at him and then gave him a mischievous look. "You need to turn around, while I change."
Validar chuckled and did as he was asked, his back to her as she undressed and slipped into his shirt. She checked over her shoulder to see if he was watching or not. The fabric was too large for her, but she found comfort in its size, feeling as if she was being wrapped in his arms even without him holding her. As she let her bare feet sink into the fur rugs, she felt a sense of freedom and vulnerability that she hadn't felt in a long time.
When she turned back to him, his eyes widened slightly, taking in her form in his shirt. The garment hung off one shoulder, revealing more than a hint of her collarbone and the swell of her breasts. Her skin was kissed by the firelight, giving her an ethereal glow. He took a step closer to her, his hand reaching out to gently caress her dark curly hair. Their eyes met and in that moment, the air between them was charged with an electric current that neither could deny.
Gabriella bit her lip slightly. "You didn't look," she said with a smile that reached all the way to her eyes.
Validar's gaze never left hers as he replied, "I am a knight of honor, my love. I would never peek unless invited."
Her smile grew as she took his hand, leading him to the fur-covered mound beside the fire. "Then I invite you," she responded, her voice barely above a whisper. "To lie with me, to keep me warm, to share this night."
Validar felt his heart swell with love and affection for this woman who had captured his heart so fully and so unexpectedly. He lay down beside her, pulling her closer so that her head rested on his chest. He could feel the steady rhythm of her heart beating against his own. The warmth of their bodies melded together, creating a cocoon of comfort and protection.
"Today has been much more like the days we had in Gateway, my love," she said quietly. "I don't want to even think about you leaving for Fort Fletcher tomorrow."
Validar tightened his arms around her, feeling the warmth of her body against his. "And I don't wish to think about it either," he replied, his voice deep with feeling. "We have tonight. And that is all we need right now."
They lay there, their breathing syncing together as the fire crackled in the background. The weight of the day's events and the looming separation didn't seem so heavy in that moment. "Lyonessa is quite the singer," Gabriella admired.
"Indeed," Validar agreed, stroking her hair gently. "Her talents are unmatched. Her words have the power to heal and to inspire."
"It was interesting to see several pairings tonight: Argent and Chareos. And I noticed Sherra and Yusef seemed to be flirting a bit. But it was especially heart-warming to see your friend, Sir Acerion, announce the engagement to the priestess Ivy."
"Ah, yes," Validar said with a proud smile. "Acerion is a good man, and Ivy is a woman of strength and compassion. They'll make a fine couple."
Gabriella nodded, snuggling closer to him. "I'm happy for them. But it does make me think of us, Validar." She tilted her head up to look at him, her green eyes searching his face in the firelight. "When we are together, it feels like everything is right in the world. And yet, we are soon to be torn apart by duty and destiny."
"We will never be truly apart. I feel like I now carry a part of you deep and well protected in my heart." He returned her gaze, looking deeply into her eyes. "And the time apart will only make reuniting that much more special."
Gabriella nodded, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I know," she whispered. "But it still scares me. The world is still such a dangerous place."
"My companions are dangerous people. Your concern may be better placed for our enemies," Validar said with a chuckle trying to defuse the mood slightly.
Gabriella's smile returned and she nodded. "Perhaps so," she said, her voice filled with the warmth of their shared laughter. "But I can't help but worry about you. You're going to a place that no one has been recently, facing unknown dangers."
"I thought we weren't going to talk about tomorrow," he said as he jostled her about gently in his embrace.
Gabriella leaned into him, her smile sad. "I know. But I care about you, my love." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "You’re right. Let's not speak of it anymore tonight. Let's just enjoy this moment."
Validar nodded, stroking her arm. "As you wish." They lay there, the warmth of the fire and each other's bodies a comfort against the coolness of the night outside. They were silent for a long time, Gabriella's head resting on his bare chest. He could feel her breathing softly, contentedly.
As the night deepened, the sounds of the city grew faint and the only noises were the crackling of the fire and the occasional muffled laugh from a distant room. The candles had burned low, casting the room in a warm, flickering glow.
Validar carefully felt the curves of her body as he gently caressed her skin. She murmured happy noises, on the verge of sleep.
Gabriella felt a sense of peace wash over her, a rare luxury in these times of conflict and uncertainty. She closed her eyes and listened to the steady thump of Validar's heart, the sound a comforting lullaby that promised protection and warmth.
"Gabriella," he whispered into the softness of her hair. "I will always come back to you, my love." Validar closed his eyes and finally allowed himself to drift off as well.
The night passed in a haze of warmth and comfort. The candles burned out and the fire slowly died down to embers, but they didn't notice. Their sleep was deep and peaceful, entwined in each other's arms.
As dawn approached, the first light of day began to peek through the cracks in the shutters, casting a soft glow across the room. The air grew chilly, but their bodies remained entwined, generating their own warmth.
Conquer or Die!