Margo

The woman’s head tilted at her apology and Margo sat across from the young soldier, listening to her with a thoughtful look. She had no family… That explained quite a bit, but she couldn’t help but sadden at the mention. What would he be like to be a child with no home to return to? She couldn’t imagine what it would feel like, to be all alone. The world was a scary enough place with a support system, what would it be like without one? Just the thought of Damien leaving for the royal city had eaten her alive with worry and the man had always had a home to return to if things went south.

She was a scared child, with no family to return to and her life in shambles. Friends may always be there for you, but there was something different when you had a family at home. It was the knowledge that you always had a place of security if life got too hard. She was just a kid who was being forced to make the decisions and live the life of someone who was older. She was inexperienced and being forced to live a life of experience. Nobody gave her any time to walk before she was forced to run.

Although what horrified Margo the most was learning that she had been present on the failed attempt to reclaim the borders, new that had even reached their little town. Did that mean… she glanced towards her son's door. Is that what she had meant when she had spoken of Damien the day previous? About her son being a hero? Her eyes flickered back to her current company. Oh, you poor baby...

Margo sighed, reaching out to pull Gennadius’s hands from her face with a gentle touch, running her thumb over her knuckles. “Hon…” She trailed, clearly holding no contempt. How could she? “You scarcely had a chance to grow up before you were forced to fill shoes bigger than you could fill. You are experienced, yet you are not. Those who are typically in your position have nearly a decade on you in age. You should not be guilty for trying to learn and needing more time.” She told her softly, trying to give support to the one who had been deprived of it.

“Don’t be sorry for trying to take care of yourself, you have nothing to be ashamed of,” Margo tried to encourage, wanting her to feel better and less guilty about everything she had done. There was far too much weight on this young woman's shoulders. “It’s okay to stumble a few times before you get back on your feet. Even babies fall a bunch of times before they start to get the hang of it. I can tell you are very emotionally invested in your career, but I can tell you right now that your soldiers are fine without you. They no doubt adore you, but they will be okay.” Margo reassured, “We all have a little of that “I want to save the world” in us and that’s okay, but sometimes you gotta focus on yourself and you are no use to your men if you’re not in the right mindset when you return to them.”

She offered her a soft smile, the woman trying her best to motherly without overstepping her bounds. “You are doing just fine and your soldiers are lucky to have someone as dedicated as you. For now Gennadius, your best is enough. Theophilus is your replacement, correct?” She asked, hoping she got the name right, “He has some pretty big shoes to fill. I think for now you should let him take care of your men. I’m sure he is doing a right fine job of making sure they’re okay. Because if he doesn’t, he’ll know who he will have to face.” She winked, giving a chuckle and patting the top of Gennadius’s hands before retracting them, resting her face in one of her palms.

Margo knew she may not have been saying all the right things, but she felt the young one needed some encouragement and a sense of security. She seemed overly cautious and afraid, clearly too worried for her own good. “You may not have had a family, but I think we can be good practice, no? I’m sure one day you will have your own, but for now, I think the Fahey brood can be your practice round.” She grinned, hoping to cheer her up, “In fact, I think you already do have a family Gennadius. I would say your castle friends count, don’t you think? You may not be related, but you seem to love them all. A family doesn’t always have to be your husband and children.” Just because it may be unconventional, didn’t mean it wasn’t just as valid.

“And about the Isa situation, don’t fret, I didn’t know she had asked him either. It was the first I’ve heard of it. Nor have you made Damien miserable. I think its good for you two to butt heads a bit and figure each other out. You two will be better friends for it. Besides, if Damien didn’t care or really want you here, I don’t think he would have chased you down like a madman to apologize.” Margo pointed out. Damien was never the type to apologize, even if he was wrong. The man had a hard time being on the wrong side of an argument and an even harder time admitted he was on the wrong side.

“I am not denying that this phase in your life is hard. It’s okay to be weak because right now, I think you have a good group of friends who care about you. Let them help, even if you don’t really want it, you’ll be better off for it. It’s okay to be afraid of a sword or afraid of returning to battle. Adults have a funny way of sending children to fight their battles and you are, unfortunately, one of them. It’s okay to be defeated and it’s fine if it takes you a long time to find the courage to get back up again. You have to allow yourself to recover at your own pace.”

Margo glanced towards Damien’s room, which he still hadn’t emerged from, and shook her head with a sigh. “He’s afraid of Isabella going because he wants to be the one to watch her. He knows if anything happened he’ll have to live with it and it gives him anxiety to put her in someone else's hands, even if he does trust you. He is correct that Isa is young and naive, unaware of the troubles of the world.” She explained, trying to give Damien’s side in a nicer way than he had, which had resulted in a conversation gone wrong. “But I’ll tell you what, if you can convince Damien, I can get Rikkard on board,” Margo told her with a soft laugh, not wanting the girl's plan completely thrown out the window.

“I may not be your mother, but you’re a good kid, Gennadius,” She told her sweetly, tucking her ebony hair behind her ears, “and I’m sure the world has some great things in store for you, even if it’s been cruel.” She gave her one last smile, as warm and inviting as one could get, “Call it a mother's intuition.” Margo laughed, green eyes glittering.

Dark blue eyes lifted to look into the green ones as her hand was taken. Gennadius didn’t pull away but simply allowed the motion, eyes soft as let another soft sigh, head hanging again for a moment, allowing the woman to speak. Normally it would be in her instincts to try a defend herself, but with Margo? Margo’s words brought her a motherly comfort she had never experienced and calmed her.

Every word spoken was like a balm to her aching soul, which had yet again begun to throb when she told Margo her fears and pain. There was something about that motherly touch and gentle word. Or maybe it was just the soft tone coming from a female voice and the caress against the back of her hand meant to soothe. Unconsciously, she pressed her hand against Margo’s, dark orbs searching the woman’s as she drank in the encouraging words meant for a child not the usual she was given meant for an experienced colonel.

At the mention of Theophilus’s name, Gennadius nodded and for the first time was forced to blink back a stray tear. Her hand moved to wipe at her eye as she let out a soft chuckle, both embarrassed and almost relieved that she was having a chance to actually release some of the pent out fears and guilts. And there was something beautiful about the way Margo put how she really did have a family in the friends at her castle. And how the Fahey family would be her practice round, a chance to see what it would be like. Which brought to mind that perhaps one day she and Nilo would have a family, and that too brought comfort.

The fact that Margo was open to the idea of bringing Isa back also brightened her up some. Of course, there was always Damien they had to get through but Gennadius hoped that with a little work and sweet talking she could manage it. Slowly she stood and returned the smile, “Margo, any person would be more than lucky to call you their mother. I am honored just to be welcome in your household. My mother died when I was a young child but even what I remember of her, she was not as kind as you are.”

She pulled her ponytail back over her shoulder and let out a relaxed breath, feeling greatly relieved after having talked with the woman. “I’m going to go apologize to Damien and see if maybe I can be the one to mend things up this time. Thank you again... I haven’t felt this relieved in a very long time.” Gennadius’s eyes got their spark back and she was grinning, feeling as though a great weight had been pulled off her shoulders. There was still Damien to attend to, but she had her confidence back.

Walking up to his room, she knocked softly before slowly opening the door and peering in. “I owe you an apology.” The female made it her first sentence as she moved over and eased herself to sit on the edge of the bed, looking up at the ceiling for a moment before back to him. “I was bothered to begin with because I heard it mentioned you got drunk. It was nothing against you really... it’s just, my father was an alcoholic and you already know about Nilo... so it just brought back bad memories. And I guess when I realized you didn’t smell drunk or really act it, I was just angry that you would use such a heinous lie.”

“So really, I am sorry. I don’t need to know what you did. And I am sorry about Isa. I hadn’t thought about what you would feel if I invited her and I should have asked you first. I forget that people have other people that care about them sometimes. Still getting used to that concept. So all I ask on that front is that you just take a day or two to actually really think about it and then we can talk? Or not.”

Gennadius reached out to lightly touch his shoulder, “Next time, if anything like this happens again, I’ll be sure to ask you first. I’d do a blood pact, but I think that is a bit childish, no?” She chuckled as she tilted her head. “So what do you say? Or do I need to get on my knees and beg?” She gave him a playful pouting look. “Or I can give you a free chance to braid my hair again.... you did make it look awfully nice.”

Damien

Damien had pretty much sulked in his room once he had entered. He heard Margo and Gennadius engage in conversation, but the voices were too muffled and it wasn’t like he was looking to eavesdrop anyway. He changed his clothes and almost hesitated in doing so because they smelled like Bea, but he knew he couldn’t stay in his wrinkled clothes all day. So instead he donned his usual dress shirt and pants, though he looped his hair into a bun instead, plopping on his bed as he attempted to read and calm himself down.

Except, he couldn’t absorb anything that was on the page. No, he was too busy processing their conversation. He sighed and thumped his head against the wall, well aware that he could have handled Gennadius much better than he had. Truth be told, he had been unfair and the conversation could have definitely gone better. Another argument to add to the pile.

Damien was afraid for Isa, but he reminded himself she was an adult now. Shouldn’t she have the right to explore? But the city was feral, especially for a young woman who didn’t know how to defend herself. He had his fears… but was it right to deprive her of at least a chance, especially when Gennadius volunteered to be her guide? He let the book fall into his lap and he rubbed his temples, beginning to debate within himself.

Picturing his sister’s defeated face wasn’t helping either. Not many things fazed him, but he had a huge soft spot for his family and especially Isa. She had been so hopeful when she had first asked him at the table… He cursed. If only Gennadius hadn’t come up with the same idea, none of this would be happening. An exasperated sigh escaped him. Why did Isabella want to leave? Why couldn’t she just be content like her other sisters? Why, out of every similarity they could have, did she choose his want for more?

She should have the right to choose. It was the realization Damien hated, only because he realized that he could’ve been in her same position. Only he had been born a man and that’s where the disparity lied. Granted, he had been a little older when he left home but did that matter? Isa had the opportunity to come stay with her successful brother and have a new friend accompany her while she figured things out. If anything, her current situation was much more stable than his had been when he left for the guard.

Dammit dammit dammit. His resolve had already cracked. Damien flinched when Gennadius opened the door, clearly caught mid-thought. He looked up at her, eyes flashing with apology, although she spoke first. “I’m afraid I must apologize too. I shouldn’t have treated you like a child either, I was caught off guard.” He told her quietly, avoiding her eyes out of a slight embarrassment.

“I wouldn’t have used that excuse if I had known you were sensitive to the topic of alcohol. I was unaware.” Damien was aware Nilo had been an alcoholic, though he had been rather steadfast since his hospitalization, but she didn’t know about her father. “But you’re right, I wasn’t drunk. I made it up to avoid a fight with my mother.” He admitted, deeming it safe to tell her the truth, “I went to talk to Bea, guess I fell asleep mid-conversation.” Damien snorted, “My mother would have had my head for staying the night with her, would’ve accused me of defiling her. We’ve had the same discussion fifty times and granted she was usually correct, but this time I kept my hands to myself.” He shook his head in his amusement, relaxing somewhat with the conversation.

“And I think… I’m warming up to the concept, just a tad. Isa may be young and naive, but I don’t think that means she should stay here forever,” Damien speculated as he stared at the ceiling, “But I’m still not completely on board.” He added quickly, although it was rather evident that by the end of the week, the women would have their way and Isabella would be coming home with him.

His gaze fell back to hers. “You just want me to braid your hair again, although I am not sure you deserve such special treatment, you bothersome woman.” He huffed, crossing his arms over his chest. “But perhaps I will let you get on your knees and beg, that might be an interesting concept…” Damien trailed as if he were actually entertaining the concept.

The woman noted how he was avoiding her gaze, and couldn’t help a soft smile. At least they were learning how to deal with their differences in their friendship and both were starting to get rather good at apologies. But for them, that was for the best since they really were opposites and bound to constantly be stepping on each other’s toes. And this was the most time they had spent together in a non-business atmosphere.

At the admittance to what he really had been doing, Gennadius couldn’t help her chuckle. “I see. I am glad the two of you are enjoying each other’s company.” She stretched her arms up and shook her head. “Who knew the great Mr. Fahay really was a lady’s man and has, in fact, had his fair share of amorous exchanges,” she teased him lightly, bumping her shoulder into him as dark eyes sparkled with her humor, “Out there defiling the women of your town to your mother's great chagrin. Oh, if she knew about Gwen....” Her tone had shifted to a playful ‘your in trouble’ tone, knowing full well she would never, ever, tell anyone about that.

It was also pleasing to hear that he was already warming up to the idea. Which meant there was no way in hell the woman would try and persuade him at this moment. No, let him continue to soften and then when he was ready, she would set out her well thought out arguments for him to inspect and make his final choice. And if all went according to plan, Isa would be traveling back. And even better, unrelated as it was, would be if Damien actually decided to keep in contact with Beatrice. In which case, the female would call this trip a huge victory.

Hearing him tease her about getting on her knees, she lifted a brow and gave a lopsided grin. “Very well.” It seemed to easy but she hopped up and plopped down in front of him, back towards him as she sat on her knees. Reaching up, she pulled the tie out of her hair and shoved it back at him. “Aren't you glad you wanted to explore the concept? Now will you please braid my hair?” Her voice was all joking and play, though it was clear she was still expecting to get her hair done.

It seemed an odd thing for Gennadius, not really caring much what her hair looked like, as long as it was out of her face most times. That, and she never really was one for the more feminine interest of getting pampered and cooed over for her appearance. But, there was something soothing about it and it did make a good bonding time for the two of them, relaxing them both. Besides, if this was something he did with his sisters... and she considered him a brother, it was only fair that she enjoyed the same privilege, wasn’t it?

And secretly, she did enjoy it. Secretly the woman had a soft spot for being treated like a younger sibling, a daughter... things she had never had and was now getting. No, Gennadius would never admit to it, and hell would freeze over before she told Nilo about the hair braiding. But, she was enjoying it nd let out a contented sigh. “You know Damien... it would have been nice to have a real family. But I can’t complain because since I never did, I got the chance to get to know you and call you my brother. And of course there is Nilo and Darius. Theodore and Theophilus... and I suppose even Augustus counts at this point.”

Leaning back, she looked up at the ceiling again. “You breathe a word of this to any of them and I will deny it and they send you to get gelded. Understood?”

Damien did end up braiding her hair because it was something he had always secretly enjoyed, even though he would never admit it. It had been another softer moment for the unlikely friends, talking while he combed the knots out of her hair and braided her hair, despite their previous argument. It seemed the two were improving at making amends and it would only serve to strengthen their friendship.

The week went rather well and Damien did, of course, let Isabella come along with them. Rikkard had been difficult to convince, simply because he couldn’t be there to supervise his daughter, but his trust in his son outweighed his worries and she was allowed to accompany the pair back to the City of Lions, where their lives awaited. Damien promised to at least try to return yearly and he genuinely hoped he could, finding that he had missed his family more than he had even realized.

He hadn’t spoken to Beatrice again following his original midnight escapade, giving the woman her space, even if he longed to have another night with her. Although, he knew it as for best. They didn’t need to complicate things further for they would only be more heartbroken. He did begin to wear the ring again once they left, to which Isa surprisingly didn’t question. No, as soon as she saw it the young woman looked a little sad as if she sympathized with her brother.

Isabella and Damien had to share a horse, which was uncomfortable for him, given as he let his sister take the saddle, which left him on the back. So it was safe to say that on day three he couldn’t feel his rump. He didn’t complain, but his discomfort was evident every time they dismounted. Besides that, the journey home went rather well, and he began to grow restless as they grew closer, longing for his little apartment and of course, his other friends, yet another thing he would never admit.

When they arrived in the royal city, Damien could see his sister's excitement and awe. It had buildings taller she had ever seen and more people than she had ever been exposed to and in all honesty, her look alone had made it worth it to her brother. Even though he still had worries, he suddenly felt like everything would be alright, even if they encountered a few bumps in the road.

When they finally arrived at the castle Damien released a content sigh. “Hail to the king!” He called, to which the gates were opened and another awed look came from Isabella. Never before had she expected to arrive in such a place in her lifetime and in all honesty, neither had Damien. In all honesty, he was a peasant who had a stroke of luck that he could now share with his sister.

Damien’s sword thumped against his thigh as they rode in and headed for the stables to unpack. “So, Gennadius,” He began as they approached what was their final destination, “do you think Augustus will blow through the halls in a fiery rage and hunt you down by merely your scent, or do you think he’ll wait a bit? Personally, I believe he may just poof into existence next to you.” He suggested, glancing over at her, aware the doctor would be none too pleased.

When he was finally able to dismount for the final time, he could not get off the horse faster. He stretched his arms above his head and took a breath, happy to be home, even if it meant he did have to work the next day. “I would hurry and put that mare away Gennadius. I’m surprised Nilo hasn’t lit the castle aflame in your absence,” He snorted as he unhooked things from his stallion, “Isabella and I will head home for today once we’re done here, I’m afraid I can’t feel my hindquarters,” At his sister's frown, he rolled his eyes and gave a sigh, “We’ll go into the city later,” Damien conceded, “but we should get you settled in and everything first. Trust me, you will have plenty of time to explore Isa.” He promised, patting his sister on the back as he went to finish putting his horse away.

It truly had been a wonderful week for Gennadius. The blonde female continued to get her chances to relax and enjoy the family atmosphere, and she really was getting the vacation she so sorely needed. For her, it was more than just that though. It was a taste of normal life, something she had never gotten and it too brought her comfort to be part of it and she couldn’t help but continuously see that it was something she and Nilo had a chance at.

The woman had also gotten to enjoy an ever constant batch of sore muscles because of her determined conditioned. But even that seemed to be growing just the faintest bit less as the days passed, before it was time to pack up and head back to the castle. She was sorry to say goodbye to Margo, having found her to be a wonderful person and an amazing mother figure. She hoped to come visit on occasion herself, just to drop in and say hello or offer her help. It was a long way to go, yes, but at least she knew she now had a place to come if things got too hard for her and she needed to just breathe.

Once riding home, Gennadius was rather grateful that Damien rode with Isa considering the woman wasn’t sure her leg could take quite that much stress. As it was, riding on the saddle left her sore, though she knew the man had the harder deal on that end anyway. But overall, the trip went good as well, though she still struggled with her nightmares. However, she was starting to manage them more on her own and was able to leave Damien in peace at night so she added that to her lost if wins for the entire travel.

As they finally reached the City of Lions, the woman was starting to grow more excited herself. She was back to her home and soon to be at the castle. While there of course were things she didn’t want to deal with there such as Augustus, the infirmary, the barracks, any and all soldiers… there was also one major thing, or rather person, waiting for her too and Nilo made it all worth it. She had realized she was somewhat homesick at times but now it was obvious just how much she had been longing to return to the prince.

That being said, there was something magical about watching Isa light up and look around with excitement as they made their way through. It was a much different setting then the farm town, bigger, brighter, and louder. People were always busy and the energy was everywhere. Gennadius loved it, and clearly so did Damien’s sister. But what was really beautiful was the looming castle with its tall walls and giant gates. Beautiful and familiar.

At the mention of Augustus, Gennadius couldn’t hold back her laugh, all scenarios being more than plausible for the doctor who was the bane of her existence. “I was rather hoping he wrote me off for dead and moved on with his life. Consider me a lost cause and all. But I’m sure he is already on his way here as we speak with all his poky proddy things and a batch of medicine and a lecture that will take him three weeks to get through,” she chuckled as they rode up to the stable. “As long as we don’t tell him about the morning runs and the occasional stop at the blacksmiths, I should walk out with my life.”

Swinging off the mare with ease, she patted the equine’s soft nose before pulling off her bag and throwing it over her shoulder. She allowed a stable hand to take the animal before looking back to Isa with a smile, “There will be more than enough time to see everything. Trust me, it will be well worth getting settled in first and to get some rest before starting to see it all. Your brother knows what he is doing. Besides, tomorrow you’ll get to probably meet the prince and his energy could wear anyone out.”

Chuckling, she lifted her hand to wave as she started for the familiar halls. Gennadius saw no point in arguing over where Isa would stay, it having already been decided that the girl would live with her brother until she went back home. Which, in the end, was fine with the woman, especially now as she was making her way through the castle to find Nilo, her excitement and anticipation to see him growing with every step. Gods how she had missed the man! More than she had even realized on the trip back.

She ran into Theophilus first, who happened to be coming from Nilo's study. Greeting him rather quickly, she received a warm welcome in return and a sturdy handshake. But she was a woman on a mission and didn’t want to spend time talking, “Where is Nilo?”

Theophilus chuckled, getting the hint, “He is still in his study alone. I fear poor Theodore has been tried these last few weeks. He may be more excited by your return than the prince himself.” With that, he gave a dip of his head and continued on his way to allow the woman passage towards her destination.

Gennadius moved into a light jog towards the room, pausing when she reached the door. Then, with a grin, she placed her hand on the knob and dramatically threw the door open forcefully causing it to hit the wall with a loud bang. “I have returned, my prince, with tales of wheat and cows!” It was with that playful announcement that she actually stepped in, face brightening at actually seeing the man. She quickly strode over before giving him a chance to fully process her sudden and loud entrance, and flopped onto his lap, arms wrapping around his neck as she was flooded with the familiar scent and warmth.

“Gods I missed you!”

Nilo

Nilo jolted when the door was thrown open, nearly jumping out of his chair. The man shifted back, prepared to glare at whoever had entered so brashly. “Who in the-” Nilo began, but cut himself off mid-phrase. That voice. He knew that voice! Light eyes grew excited as she stepped in front of him, a boyish grin finding his lips as he looked up at her. Nilo had no clue when she would be back, but Gods was the man happy she finally was.

He laughed as she fell into his lap, arms wrapping around her torso and holding her close, the familiar gesture nearly making the man melt. Her time spent away hadn’t affected him too badly, besides the fact he had been rather grumpy for a few days following their departure. No, things had gone on like business as usual, but he certainly missed her and actually seeing her reminded him how much he had missed her presence. She always seemed to light up the room.

Nilo gave a content sigh, happy to finally hold again and hear her voice. It may have only been about a month, but the two were used to constantly seeing each other. It wasn’t like the man had sulked the entire time, but when he would be done with work or would find some spare time, he would be reminded he was by himself. Although, he was thankful for Flower, who definitely distracted him, but there were certainly moments when he found himself missing her.

So it was safe to say the prince was more than happy she had returned, given the fact he had been given no return date by his advisor. “And I most certainly missed you,” Nilo purred, eyes fluttering shut as he pressed his nose to the top of her hair, relishing in her familiar scent and form. “Very, very much,” He added, giving a low chuckle, “I think I barely survived. Flower had to comfort me and Theophilus had to rock me to sleep.” He told her, clearly dramatizing what had been a rather lackluster response in comparison.

“Since you have returned happy and in one piece, I may not have to kill my advisor just yet.” Perhaps he would have to rethink beating the man for his petty actions, given the fact Gennadius seemed to be rather exuberant following her time away. “I only wish I had been the one able to steal you away,” Nilo gave a sigh which did depict a hint of jealousy, but he didn’t dwell on it long, never the type to be down for very long, “but I am extremely glad you were able to run away, I’m sure it did you some good. You were going a bit stir-crazy, darling.”

Nilo leaned away so he could search her eyes and see her face, the grin had not left his face since she had entered. His day could not have had a better surprise, the man more than happy to have her back. “Augustus nearly killed me y’know. You’re lucky I told him it was my idea, so I think I got the brunt of his fury,” Nilo gave a puff of laughter and shook his head, “I am lucky it is considered treason to maim the crown prince.” Oh yes, Augustus had been an accurate depiction of a demon once he found out his troublesome patient had escaped on a countryside retreat.

“But tales of cows and wheat?” Nilo questioned, referencing her earlier comment, “I never took you as the farmer type. You simply must tell me all about it.” The man was genuinely interested in her trip and wanted to hear about her experiences, “Is Damien’s family just as grumpy as he is? Did you meet his sisters? Any riveting adventures?” He wiggled his brows, expectantly awaiting her answers.

The woman more than happily pressed into him as he rested his nose to the top of her head. The purr of his voice warmed her to the very core and her lips tipped further upward as her face buried into his shirt, arms tightening some around his neck. A soft snort escaped her as the man dramatized her absence, the very idea of Theophilus rocking Nilo to sleep was, well... imaginable and it was utterly hilarious. Yes, she could see Nilo rocking himself back and forth dramatically, bemoaning his lost love while Theophilus calmly lifted him up and put him to bed like a child.

At the mention of Damien’s punishment, she couldn’t help a soft chuckle, knowing that he would have it coming... though she doubted the prince ever really would have gone through with it. But what did strike her was the soft sigh that accompanied his wish to have been the one to take her away. The woman’s head pulled back some as she craned her neck to look up at the bottom of his jaw, smiling as he mentioned that she had been going stir-crazy. Which she really had been.

As Nilo leaned back, Gennadius did as well so he could get the better view of her face that he seemed to be looking for. They surely looked like grinning fools as they stared at each other, again in the other’s embrace and thrilled with it beyond measure. “Hopefully he got all his anger out on you then,” she chuckled, shaking her head, “Or else you and I are sharing your room as to avoid him. I am enjoying being able to use my leg and part of me thinks he might break it just to force me to stay in the infirmary.”

Her dark eyes suddenly seemed to sparkle all the more as he brought up her vacation, obviously very curious about all that had happened while she had been away. “Well I will begin by telling you that a multiple day trip on horseback is hell when you haven’t ridden for months,” she started with a laugh, pulling her arms from around his neck. Her hands splayed over her chest to hold her out from him while she talked. “But no, Damien’s family is not grumpy in the slightest. His father I guess could be considered grumpy? But I would label him more as just busy.”

She shifted some to get a bit more comfortable before continuing with her tale. Of course, she mentioned her playful moment of making his family think they were together and how grumpy he had become from that. And there was the tale of the cow that bit his hand and her morning run the next day. She left out the arguments and such but did mention how kind Margo had been and how she had treated Gennadius as if she were her own child.

“Moving onto the sisters... Well Nilo... I only met one. Isabella and as it turns out, Damien has brought her back with us for a visit. She is the spitting image of Damien except with a sense of humor. Damien brought her home with him today but he’ll be bringing her tomorrow. So Nilo... you can’t kill him, understand?” She teasingly poked the man in the chest before melting back against him, her cheek brushing against the fabric of his shirt. “Overall, I had a really good time and enjoyed myself. It was nice to get away, but it would have been better had you been able to come.”

A hand reached up so her fingers could run over the familiar smooth jaw line, “Maybe one day you will be able to steal me away.” Her voice had softened some as she mentioned it, there a clear hope that perhaps things could get better and that Nilo would take a vacation with her, just the two of them. Of course, such a thing may never be possible as the prince was standing in for king and may never get the chance to step back again. Which brought up another thing.

Leaning away again to look him in the eyes, she tilted her head slightly, “How is your father? Has he gotten any better?” The fingers that had been traveling around his jaw moved to his cheek as her palm flattened out. Gennadius could only hope the news was good but as she sat staring into his eyes, the other hand moved to the opposite cheek and she leaned in, her mouth meeting his before she could allow him to answer. Yes, Gennadius had missed this man with every ounce of her being and loved him with every inch of her soul.

Nilo laughed as she told her story, listening with interest as she went on about her experiences. The man was glad she had the chance to relax and have some fun. It was probably relieving to get out of the castle she had been confined to for months. The thought of Damien being bitten by a cow was a funny one, given the fact Nilo had always perceived him as an animal hater, given the fact he hated people too.

Bright eyes glittered as she mentioned beginning to re-condition, glad the woman was to the point that she could do more strenuous activities. It showed that she was continuing her recovery rather well. Nilo liked hearing about Damien’s family as well, always interested in where he came from and Gennadius gave him a far better description than what Damien had ever given him. Overall, it seemed like she had enjoyed her stay and he was rather happy for her.

Nilo gave a sigh when she said she couldn’t kill him. “Fine, I shall spare his life, but only because you asked nicely and I want to meet his sister.” He huffed, smile softening as she fell back against him as if she sought to mold herself with his body. It was peaceful, just the two of them in the study together, with her happily returning from a getaway and him ecstatic to see her again. “Although, it surprises me his family doesn’t resemble him in terms of personality. Perhaps he just decided to be grump enough for the lot of them.” Nilo suggested jokingly.

“I would have loved to see his family, but I’m sure having two guests opposed to one would have been too stressful on him, especially since we have proved to be a rather dynamic duo. I think he needed some peace.” Although Nilo would have loved to visit Damien’s family, he felt like Gennadius needed the getaway more than he did and who knows, perhaps some time apart was good for them. Not that they argued much, but simply because they were nearly inseparable. Too much time could be as bad as too little.

Not that he didn’t want to spend time with her. That would never be the case. He was perfectly content with her in his lap, nestled against him as if she had never left. His eyes closed as her fingers danced over his jawline, something he didn’t know he had missed until she did it again. “I will, one day. I promise you that there will be plenty of adventures with me in your future.” Nilo assured, knowing that he would be damned if there were no escapades or vacations in her future. What was the point in having unlimited resources at your disposal if you couldn’t spend them on the ones you love here and there?

When she asked about his father, the man perked up, but before he could talk, her mouth met his, gentle palms holding his face. Nilo leaned in, his own hand coming to splay across her cheek, and in a surge of passion, the man tipped her head back and deepened the kiss, relishing the feel of her lips on his. She was his everything and Nilo hoped she would never forget that.

When they broke away the man's thumb brushed over her cheekbone before his hand fell away, settling back around her waist where his other one arm still held her. “I love you, so, so much,” Nilo told her softly, the man felt complete. The three weeks had been long and full of longing, but had it been worth it? Most certainly. She had returned with high spirits and that was more than he could have asked for. It was a well-needed break. “I just thought you needed a reminder.” He chuckled, watching her with warm eyes.

“As for my father,” Nilo started, remembering her earlier question, “the doctors say he should pull through, but that I shouldn’t get my hopes up just yet. Things still have a possibility of going south again and I am doing my very best to stay realistic, but it’s getting increasingly difficult.” The prince gave a laugh, “With my mother, there was never any hope, but now the doctors are telling me there’s a good chance my dad’s going to be okay? It’s hard not to be excited!” He exclaimed, leaning his head back to rest against the chair for a moment.

How nice would it be, to have his father back on the throne? Nilo would still have his duties, but he wouldn’t be so stretched thin and that he would be constantly exhausted. He could spend more time with Gennadius and be a better master to Flower. There would be more room for days away from the castle because he wouldn't always be worried about something going wrong. “I’m really looking forward to working with him again. It’ll be less stressful on the whole court. The nurses say they should have the final answer in a couple of weeks, but they’re already lowering his dosages.” He beamed, clearly happy at the thought of having his father back.

The sudden passion of his kiss caught the woman off guard, though there were no complaints as she melted even further into his arms. No, she rather enjoyed the moment when her greeting kiss had turned into his own proclamation of his deep attachment to her. The passionate kisses they had shared were few and far between, saved for special occasions and her return was one of them. There was something particularly amazing in these moments, something she would better understand later but enjoyed nonetheless.

When they were forced to breathe, Gennadius found herself seeming to struggle a bit more than Nilo was for his air, but that did not take away her grin as his thumb caressed her cheek. Deeps orbs of the ocean met their lighter glacial counterpart, though both gazes were filled with an indescribable amount of love and warmth. “I know....” she whispered softly, hands trailing down to rest on his shoulders, “and you can remind me as often as you want.” She would gladly throw away her title and her blades in a heartbeat if it meant she could have this forever.

But as it turned out, as she thought she couldn’t get much happier, Nilo shared the good news about his father. Watching the prince light up as he shared the news, even with the caution, meant so much to her. It was about time that the man got a chance to have real hope, and Gennadius truly believed that this time fate was on their side. Leonel would get better... and the man she loved would get his father back and the kingdom would have their beloved king returned. Not that the prince wasn’t doing a fantastic job but he was still young and needed more time to learn from his father.

“That is wonderful!” Gennadius couldn’t help her own exuberant laughter at it all, seeing that everything really was looking up. Her fingers slid up his neck to his hair, finding the red hair that she loved so much, almost immediately tangling her hand with the russet strands. Her lips were still pinned up as she leaned forward again, blue eyes sparkling with her joy at it all. “I told you he would be alright... he’s got good genes.”

Pressing her forehead to his, she used her free hand to stabilize herself, resting against his chest. “You know how I knew that? Because I know he has an amazing son, his pride and joy and my truest and only love.” Gennadius knew it sounded cheesy but she couldn’t care less. She had been deprived of complimenting him for over three weeks and it was something that she sorely missed. The woman had never realized just how much it meant to her to be able to encourage him when she could, but it really meant everything to her. Everything about him meant everything to her. And that was really as simple as it got.

“And let me tell you about this son of his. He is a strong man, muscular and able to hold his own if it comes to it. Loyal. I’ve heard he even beat a man to defend his woman’s honor. And he is a hard worker, spending hours doing his duties but always still finding the time for the gentler things of life. On top of that, he has an amazing sense of humor and a heart of gold.” Never once did her gaze leave his, keeping eye contact as her expressive orbs held all the adoration of the world. “But the best part is that he is mine and I am more than happy to be his.”

With that she relaxed against him again, tucking her head under his chin as she closed her eyes, releasing a gentle sigh. Yes, Gennadius was more than happy to spend her time like this, able to hear his heartbeat and feel his warmth, enveloped by his familiar scent. Her arms were pulled up to her chest, though her fingers were playing with the fabric of his shirt. No, she would not have traded her vacation, but she was certainly happy to be back with the man she adored.

“Nilo...” she started, voice quiet as her fingers stopped moving against his shirt, “you know, some mornings I would enjoy someone to go on my runs with me. I’m still slow so you’d have plenty of time to catch up.” Gennadius chuckled, knowing that there was a very good chance that Nilo was in far better shape than she was at the moment and could more than likely out run her in a heartbeat. But what mattered was that this was the first time she had actually invited the man to join her in what would be related to her duties.

The woman was taking a giant leap in her trust with him and was letting him enter the part of her life that she had previously kept on a totally separate thought pattern. Her work and Nilo were to totally different worlds and while she had talked with him about it and they had had conversations based on her job as colonel and his as prince, there had been no other connection. But it wasn’t just her conditioning she was asking for him to help her with...

“I know you don’t really care for swords, but I’m hoping to get another soon. Mine was lost at the borders... but, if you wouldn’t mind, maybe you and I could do some sparring with the training ones? I would like to be able to actually wield one when I step back into my duties but I do need a partner.” She leaned back to his face, eyes glowing hopefully that he would indeed help her. She was ready. Ready to prepare for her return as colonel and ready to offer everything involving her life to Nilo. There were no reservations left.

“So what do you say? You think you have what it takes to keep up with me?” She laughed, tucking golden strands that had fallen from her ponytail back and out of her face, though they only seemed to fall forward again. “In turn, I can see if I can give you a hand with some of this....” she motioned towards the desk of neatly stacked papers, narrowing her eyes at things she didn’t have the slightest clue about, “this... important kingdom... stuff.” Not that if she even did understand it, anyone would be able to read her handwriting. At least anyone who was willing to actually realize that the scratches were words.