The ride was wonderful and the weather was nice, a perfect conclusion to their night away and a stunning beginning to their actual trip. He couldn’t wait to leave for their actual honeymoon, finding privacy even amongst a crowd. They wouldn’t be royals, just a young couple traveling. There would be no constant eyes or listening ears. There would just be a peaceful normalcy that they would only be granted here and there. So it was only right for the man to be excited because true privacy was something he never got to have.

His excitement only grew as the city castle came in sight, the two slipping through a lesser traveled route to avoid any eyes. The countryside citizens may have been fooled, but the sleek horses would give them away this time, even with their less-than-formal features. The prince was pleased to find nobody seemed keen on stopping them. He found more safety in the castle than he cared to admit. As Gennadius spoke, his head turned, the man thinking for a moment. “I think we should be fine leaving today, I don’t see why we shouldn’t,” Nilo answered as they approached the gates.

“We should have enough time to get through two or three towns today, no big deal. It would just give us a head start for tomorrow. I know the maps well enough to get us around.” Nilo stopped talking to call out to the guards, though the gates were already parting at their arrival. His hair, even ruffled and in utter disarray, gave the prince away in no time. Nilo laughed at her mischievous suggestion, shaking his head. “Do you know how much Theodore would worry if we said that?” He questioned with an additional chuckle, “The man would irritate the entire castle while we were away.”

Theodore was certainly a special one and in this case, one to fear with his overexcited squealing. “I wouldn’t put the spire thing past him though. I could see him chatting with the guard while he does his work. Probably created a temporary office and Darius wants to drag him out by the ear.” Nilo guided them towards the stables, dismounting and grabbing the sack. The man handed the horse off to a stablehand before turning back to his wife, “But I’m sure he’ll be busy, half the time he’s in the city running my correspondence. He’s scarcely in the study anymore, so we may be safe.” Nilo offered, hoping to get out without too many embarrassing questions.

“But if he is here or Damien for that matter, I’m sure we’ll be stopped,” The man led her into the castle, knowing they would probably have to break off to get their things. Then they would get fresh horses and be free to go. “But they are our friends, so I’m sure we won’t be stopped for that long if they know we’re looking to head out. They might be pushy, but fortunately, they aren’t that annoying. Only sometimes.” Nilo joked, enjoying the feel of the familiar halls. He knew it would be a while before he would see his home again. How long had it been since he had spent more than a day away? It felt like forever.

The prince paused right before they had to part ways, taking her hand and giving the woman a twirl. “And in the case, our court comes banging down your door, you are free to make up whatever harrowing story you see fit,” The man laughed, propping a hand upon his hip, “Although I would recommend just saying we explored the forest and laid claim to the castle, but I leave that up to you.” Nilo finished with a wink, turning to walk towards his bedroom. It would be one of the last times the man stepped foot in it, knowing that when they returned, they would begin to remodel their very own wing. “We can rendezvous here and run for the stables in hopes of a clean escape.”

Nilo made his way back to his room, which was immaculate as ever. The man had expected to feel some sort of sadness at leaving it behind, but he didn't. The room may have been his home for several years and had the best view the castle had to offer, but how could a garden view even begin to compare to making a home with the person you loved the most? Granted, the man would have been happy just sharing a room with her anywhere in the castle, but there was something special about designing a small wing with her, even if they’d probably have to haunt a guest room until everything was done.

It was yet another adventure on their list the man was looking forward to. Nilo only had a few things to add to his bag and he had chosen plainer attire for the journey. Although… could any of his attire be considered plain? Probably not, but the man hadn’t seen it fit to purchase an entirely new wardrobe for the trip, nor would he have wanted to. Nilo always felt like he was in physical pain whenever he had to dress in something not in his usual grade of fashion. Though what he hated the most was that he would need to wear a hat. A hat. There was one shoved into his bag, but he hoped he could get away without wearing it for a while.

The man meandered into his bathroom to properly do his hair and tucked his shirt in while his eyes scanned over the bag he had pre-prepared. He tossed the little container of product in the bag before closing and throwing it over his shoulder. Nilo was nearly in a jog as he headed back, only slowing to a more casual pace as he rounded the corner, spying Gennadius speaking to Theophilus. Luckily, he was the tamest of the court, not one to press for answers. Damien had used to be like that… but it seemed Theodore had rubbed off on him and now the advisor had a knack for demanding answers.

Nilo waved as he approached, smiling warmly at the soldier. “Thank you, I’m sure we’ll fare fine. My father recommended we have a small group of guards escort us to at least the borders.” He explained, starting them down the hall towards the stables once more, “Kind of hard to be inconspicuous when you have a pack of intimidating, armed men on your tail.” The man snorted and shook his head, remembering the conversation. “Fortunately, I managed to convince him that Gennadius could probably scare off any bandits we come across...” Nilo trailed as he heard the very familiar sound of claws on tile, ears tuned in to the sound that often haunted his own quarters.

“DAMMIT FLOWER!” Came a cry from farther down the hall, Nilo turning to see Theodore chasing after his canine, who was bounding towards the prince in an erratic run of happiness. The cream-coated canine jumped and collided with his chest, sending the man stumbling several steps back as Flower flailed and fell to the floor with a loud “thump”. Undeterred, but now better behaved, the beast sat down expectantly at his feet for her desired head scratches(which she of course received). It was quite the mood swing from the creature.

Theodore arrived several moments later with a bundle of papers secure in his arms, clearly flustered. He groaned, pressing a hand to his forehead. The liquor had not been kind to him, nor had the dog he was babysitting with her unexpected sprint. Though, he did straighten soon enough, wearing a weaker version of his usual smile, but bright nonetheless. “Afternoon you two,” He greeted with his usual bow, “I hope your wedding night was as spectacular as people claim they are. I must hear about this adventure when you return! No buts!” Theodore laughed in a bubbly way that was unique to him.

“Damien will be so grumpy once he discovers you two left without saying goodbye to him. I can hear the ass grumbling about it now. Poor Bea will have to soothe him.” Theodore said, shifting his bundle in his arms, “and I would interrogate you two now, but I’m afraid I have places to be, as do you two, who have much to do,” Brows wiggled suggestively at them before he bent over to hook a leash to Flower’s collar, given the fact she would probably have to be dragged away from her owner. “So back into my dear Theophilus’s hands you go!” Theodore said, beginning to jog off with Flower, who took a few hard tugs to get moving again.

“Give them a kiss goodbye for me!”

The woman lifted her chin a little higher at the mention of being protection enough. It had little to do with her pride in her skill, but pride that Nilo trusted her so much. That and she knew he really didn’t want to have armed escorts traveling with them. However, she was not able to respond, attention shifting to the cry of a very familiar voice, followed by Flower flying around the corner and nearly taking Nilo down.

As the dog calmed down, Gennadius reached out to offer her own pats, dark eyes looking up as Theodore came over. She couldn’t suppress a soft laugh as the man was clearly reeling from a hangover, but still holding his own quite well. And a dog. And a large amount of extra work. “Hello Theodore,” she responded, shaking her head in amusement as the man was buzzing with his usual energy, already ready to continue on with his busy day. The suggestive brow wiggle did earn a glare, though it was soft and playful.

The youth hadn’t even let them get a word in edgewise before he was gone with Flower in tow. Theophilus cast a glance after the young man before shaking his head with a chuckle. “I too have things I must get to. But again, I wish you the best time any couple could have. And I’ll be sure that Damien and Theodore don’t hurt each other. As for Theodore’s kiss... in spirit.” He offered a dip of his head as his hands linked behind his back and he started for the war room. The older man of Nilo’s court would do a fine job keeping a general eye on things (specifically two people), and was perfectly happy with that position.

The moment the Captain started off, Gennadius snatched Nilo’s arm with one hand and grabbed her bag with the other, starting to drag him towards the stables. “Let’s go before Damien sniffs us out.” She gave him a playful tug, throwing him a warm and excited smile, “After all, he did still me away without out letting either of us say goodbye so I guess we can justify this with that memory.” It wasn’t that she didn’t want to say goodbye, but she was eager to be going and knew they would be returning to the ever grumpy face of their friend.

A soft excited breath escaped her as she glanced at her husband, beaming ear to ear. “Just you and I Nilo... just the two of us. I can barely even imagine what this is going to be like,” she started as they entered the stables, two fresh horses already being saddled for them. “We’ve never been able to escape that long. And we don’t have to worry about anyone watching us or decorum... we can be normal people for once.” The excitement in her tone was unmistakable, the female moving to the mare waiting to carry her and doing a quick inspection.

After quickly tying her bag to the saddle, Gennadius stretched her arms upward, flexing her back some. “I think I’ve got everything. You?” Looking the man up and down, she noted he had fixed his hair.... his hair. “Did you bring a hat?” Without waiting for an answer, she dove into his bag, triumphantly pulling out the head piece. “You did! I thought I was going to have to run and steal one of the gardener’s hats. But this one will do just fine.”

She gazed at it as if meticulously inspecting it before quickly bouncing on her toes and plopping it on his head. “Don’t you dare take it off either.” Midnight blue eyes glowed with challenge as she finally mounted her horse and lifted the reins, shifting in the saddle to get comfortable. “I may be capable of fending off thieves but I really hate to get my blades bloody.” She couldn’t help teasing him, knowing just how much he hated hats. “Come along grumpy. We’ve got places to see.”

Nilo laughed as the woman dragged him towards the stables, falling in step beside her after a few moments. “Damien had city work today, so unless he sees us exiting the city lines, I believe we're safe,” Another chuckle escaped him at the memory of Damien taking her away, condemning him to a rather lonely month with no reassurance of when she would return. It wasn’t exactly even payback, but it would do. “Don’t remind me of his pettiness those months ago. That was such a cruel move. The man never even stated where he lived or how long he would be gone. Just snatched you to get back at me.” He snorted, though he was no longer bitter.

The prince followed his wife the rest of the way to the stables, looking as carefree as he could ever. Nilo smiled at her comments, her innocent happiness rather adorable. He was looking forward to it just as much. How many times had he wanted to steal her away, only to remind himself their duties came first? Now that they were officially married it made everything seem brighter and optimistic. They had weathered so many storms and now they were finally granted some peace and an opportunity to run away. He wasn’t sure it could get any better.

“I must say I am looking forward to it as well,” Nilo added after a moment, tying his own belongings to the mare presented to him, “I feel like the only time we never had any eyes on us was when we were cooped up in your bedroom or mine. To think I can actually walk without a rumor being spread about my gait sounds amazing. It’s rather liberating to think we can just spend some time together and not be judged or observed.” He stroked the steed's velvety muzzle, smiling softly. “I love my home and the time we’ve spent in it, but I think this will certainly be an unforgettable experience.”

His head turned as she asked him if he was ready to leave, the man casting her an excited nod. “Hopefully you won’t be too sick of me by the time we return or you might be asking for that separate room.” Nilo cast her a playful look, only to have the humor die from his face at the mention of the hat. It took all his willpower not to cringe. He was about to disregard it and mount his house then encourage her to do the same when she moved for his bag. Nilo nearly tackled her, but only watching in dread as she procured the disgusting article.

It wasn’t even ugly, just a charcoal colored cap that peddlers often wore. He just hated covering up his hair, not to mention his fiery locks didn’t agree with it whatsoever. They always seemed to stick out in a half-flat way as soon as it was removed, making a hilariously hideous hair-do. The man's nostrils flared in indignation as she approached him with it, taking a step back. No! He didn’t want to wear it. Call it a childish move, but his hatred was very real. He understood why he should wear it, but didn’t want to anyway. Not to mention it didn’t go with what he wore. “Gennadius…” His voice was filled with warning, but it was too late.

Within moments the infernal thing was on his head, a cry of protest escaping him as the fabric touched him. Nilo huffed audibly, crossing his arms over his chest with an icy glare. “It’s decided, you don’t love me. It’s all been a lie.” He declared dramatically, but still mounted his horse. Although, he pettily refused to look in her direction as he led them towards the gates. “I’m feeding it to the horse later,” He threatened, half-serious, “I’m sure she’ll appreciate it much more than I will and will be happy to relieve me of the torture my wife has imposed on me.”

As they exited into the city, the man dipped his head to look at the map, a soft hum escaping him as he tried to figure out which city would be the best to stop in for the night. He hadn’t brought anything for staying out in the wilderness. Well, he had packed a couple of extra blankets, but that wasn’t really suited for spending a night outside. “I’m still bitter about the hat,” Nilo chewed on his lip as he concentrated, “Perhaps we should have stuck you in a wig to make it even. One of those hideous white ones.” He suggested, gaze still pinned on the parchment.

Laughter followed his declaration, the young woman shaking her head. “Well in that case, highness, it is a lie I am very invested in.” Her tone danced with merriment as they started off, not in the least bit concerned by what he had to say. “And if you are determined to feed it to the horse, I will be sure to replace with a much larger and floppier hat. Maybe even make sure it has a ribbon on it. I’m thinking a pink ribbon. Maybe then you’ll feel a little less tortured.”

As he pulled put the map, she guided her Mare closer to him, legs rubbing as she peered over at the paper. “Mhhmmm… I know it is a very traumatic experience for you.” She craned her head back slightly at the mention of a wig, eyes narrowing for a moment before she returned to observing the map Nilo had brought. “You would allow such a thing. You like my hair too much and I assume you would like to continue keeping yours. A dagger makes a mighty fine shearing tool.” A brow was raised in challenge, releasing a soft snort.

“How about we stop here?” Gennadius pointed to one of the cities that seemed close enough on the map, tilting her head. “I don’t think I’ve been there so I’m not sure if it’s close enough.” The woman leaned back into her saddle and gave a small shrug. “I’ve been plenty of places as you know, just not many in the main land. The mountains to the west are beyond stunning, let me tell you. And the rivers and lakes there? Gorgeous. However, I think I’m always going to be a sucker for the little lake at the country castle now. Besides, mountain travel is a damned pain.”

Reaching over, she snatched the map from his hands and gazed down at it, eyes tracing over it. Everything on the map itself was familiar in that she had been studying ones of the kingdom to become more accustomed to where everything was, but she had yet to see most places. So their travels also doubled as a tour of sorts for her through a few different areas. “Do you have a general idea what route we are taking?” she finally questioned curiously, still holding onto the map rather tightly.

Blue eyes lifted and gazed at him, her head tilting as she suddenly had a new question for him. “How many places have you seen? I’ve talked about the places I’ve been on the campaign, but you’ve never really told me everywhere that you have been. Other than the two castles and our destination.” It was clear she was quite interested in this as her grip loosened on the parchment loosened and all attention that wasn’t on guiding the mare was on him.

“Tell me the tales of your youth, dear husband,” Gennadius teased. “I must hear of every adventure that brought you through the wilds of your kingdom. Or perhaps they are tales of woe for all who crossed your path.” The female laughed, reaching up to move a golden strand of hair behind her ear that had been annoyingly falling into her line of vision. The things she did for this man... “And I am sure there must be a story for your deep-seated hate of hats. Which I still think look quite charming on you.” She reached over to bop his head, patting the hat down more on his head.

Nilo found humor in the way her responses were almost as if she were responding to a small, grumpy child. It probably should have offended him, but the man's bitter facade was already falling away. He wasn’t a negative person and the corners of his mouth were already beginning to lift, even if he was trying his damndest to prevent a smile. “I think a wig would be rather… flattering,” Nilo commented, clearly sarcastic, “And who knows, maybe I would look good bald. I’ll keep that in mind next time I have my hair cut.”

His eyes found the place she pointed to on the map, clicking his tongue for a moment as he thought. “Yeah that town should be okay, we’ll probably be there a little early, but that’s alright. I’d rather not travel at night on those roads anyway.” Nilo agreed, scratching at his jaw, “It’s a cute little place, rather quaint but not very poor. I’m not a frequent visitor, obviously, but I’ve been there a few times in the past.” The man had visited nearly every town, if not all that the map had scribbled on its surface.

Nilo sat back in his saddle, looking at the city passed by them, horses weaving amongst the people easily. He listened keenly as she spoke of her travels on the campaign, something he had heard of a few times before, but nevertheless loved to be told about. He let out a scoff as she stole the map from him, tearing the parchment from his hands. “How rude!” Nilo huffed out, shooting her a glare, “And just when I was beginning to like you again too!” The man crossed his arms over his chest as he straightened in his offense. Although, he was rather hard-pressed not to grin.

After a few more moments of silence and fake-pouting, the woman asked him another question, to which he nodded. “I do have an idea,” Nilo admitted, “I’ve been to the ocean several times, so we’re just taking the regular route with a detour to reach the small seaside city we’ll be staying in.” He explained, hand again reaching for his jaw as his mind wandered to his plan, only to be dragged back by another inquiry from his wife. He opened his mouth to speak, only to growl as she reached out to touch the horrible headwear he was forced to don. Yet another huff escaped him, but he did not deny her answer.

Although, he had been tempted to pettily refuse due to the fact he was now reminded of the cap, but he figured he could at least be somewhat mature. Emphasis on somewhat. “I’m afraid there is no story regarding hats, I just hate wearing them. Even when I used to sneak out of the castle I hated wearing them, but needed to blend in.” Nilo just didn’t like the way they looked or felt, as odd as it seemed. Then again, he was a rather odd person. “So apologies for not having a harrowing tale where I single-handedly defeated a dragon that hoarded hats with my bare fists and a dinner plate. I’m afraid you didn’t marry a white night.” He chuckled, shaking his head.

“We traveled at least three months out of the year and on many occasions more. We only stopped once my mother fell ill. My father liked visiting our allies, though we most frequently meandered into Adaira’s realm because our parents were such good friends. Probably because they wanted me to marry her as well, but clearly that plan failed.” Nilo snorted and then laughed, “I guess there was something about sleeping with one of your best friends for the rest of your life we didn’t approve of.” He joked but settled again into thought about his former travels.

“I’ve been to every city at least twice, not to mention the towns we passed through multiple times along the way. I’d like to say I know my home well by now.” The man looked around the city as they reached its edges. It was one of the many places that would eventually be in his control. “We avoided mountains for the same reasons, though they were always pretty. We would travel in these big, horse-drawn carriages that took four horses to pull and would only stop to switch out horses, guards, and supplies, then continue. It allowed us to travel faster than average people so it gave us more time to see everything.”

It was clear the memories were fond ones and the man held many of his favorite memories with his family as they traveled around. “We traveled by ship once down to the lower portion of this continent, but I’ve never been across the ocean. That time we spent almost a year away. It’s incredible to see the different types of kingdoms and people. Nature can be so different, as can language and art. The world has many wonders, I can assure you of that. Society isn’t always the same as we have here. Sometimes people live with nature rather than tearing it down to make cities and build temples in forests. I swam in a sinkhole once, it was a beautiful place to be.” Nilo explained, animatedly moving his hands in a way that showed his excitement.

“Personally, I think you have to actually be there to see it all. I can describe waterfalls, snowy plains, and deserts to you for hours if that’s what you truly want, but there's just something about seeing it for yourself that makes it special.” Nilo grinned in her direction, eyes glittering. The man had barely noticed they had exited the city and into the countryside. “And who knows, perhaps we can travel more often now that we’re married, and handle some of the more diplomatic sides of the royal job. Perhaps one day we can even see what kingdoms are like across the sea.”

The moment he started talking, Gennadius settled, listening to his answers with unrestrained curiosity. His mention of not being a white knight did earn a grin as her dark eyes warmed. Perhaps not but he was a rather charming and handsome prince. Just with an interesting quirk that made hats his mortal enemy. She supposed she could deal with that though, and the thought caused her to chuckle before re-focusing her attention on his response to everywhere he had been and seen.

It was clear that the woman was drinking every word, eyes brightening as he mentioned how often he had travelled. To have gone to every city at least twice? She glanced at the map, noting how many places there really were in the kingdom. And he had been to every single one. It should have been expected considering as prince, he would need to know his kingdom well, but it did bring with it a bit more respect for her husband, if that was even possible. And then there were all the modes of travel he had used. Carriages and ships? Neither of which she had ever stepped foot on or in.

Yet, even with all her awe of everywhere he described, she found that the best part was seeing just how excited he was being able to talk about and describe it all. “It really sounds amazing,” she admitted, for a moment getting a far away look. Gennadius had been so thrilled with her traveling that had come with the campaign, and yet, now she could see she had barely even scratched the surface of the world around her. A world that she did want to explore and perhaps now could.

“I honestly would love you to take me to these places whenever we do find time. Though I highly doubt I will be much help on the diplomatic side of things,” she laughed. “Though I would be able to assess threat levels, but I think that defeats the purpose of diplomacy.” The female reached out to pat her mare’s neck and let out a breath. “You do have to tell me about some of the other ways people live though. I would love to hear about their art and language as you put it. I assume they dress different as well. Maybe after a while, we can take a trip across the ocean as you said.”

Gennadius craned her head back to look into the sky before returning her attention to the map. She carefully rolled it up and handed it back over to Nilo. “I would die to get a chance to step foot on a ship. I’ve never even seen one expect drawings of them. Nor have I been in a carriage before.” She was becoming suddenly very aware that there really wasn’t a whole lot that she had done, other than making a living out of being a soldier and killing people to protect her kingdom. Which was unique, but there was so so much more out there.

“And here I thought I had just married a boring prince who lived his days in his study.” She teased him and reached out to swat his shoulder. “I WILL be hearing every story you have as well. It seems you have been holding out on me. You may not be a white knight but clearly you were a bit of a traveling adventurer.” She was sure there was plenty of stories the two of them would be telling over the years that they would enjoy, though she had a feeling his were more exciting.

The daylight was already fading fast and the two were making good time towards their destination. They were clearly still in the high of their new marriage. Gennadius couldn’t be happier during the ride, loving every moment of travel itself and enjoying the conversation they shared. It was relaxed and yet playful as it always was, but again, there was something special this time around.

As they rode up to the town, Gennadius decided to dismount, swinging off her horse and flipping the reins over the horse’s head. “I do believe this is the destination, no?” Blue eyes glowed excitedly, grabbing the man’s arm.

The man grinned as she enjoyed his story, looking forward to exploring the world again with her at his side. Nilo may have seen many things, but there was so much more to see and do with her that it was hard not to be excited. Everything seemed to remind the man that his future was a bright one filled with potential. And it seemed the two were on the same page, given as neither could seem to stop smiling. Anyone could see from miles away that they were a young couple in love. You didn’t even need to see the band on his finger.

“Diplomacy isn’t that difficult Gennadius, you just have to be nice,” Nilo chuckled, shaking his head, “But even if foreign relations doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can just look pretty and enjoy your vacation while I sip tea with our allies.” He offered jokingly but knew the woman could hold her own if they ever visited foreign kingdoms. Mingling with rulers was much different than your local nobles. They weren’t aware of the petty rumors and imagined scandals, only the news that mattered.

“Riding in a carriage can be fun, though I much prefer riding with my own horse. It's more convenient for long distances and safer in general. Harder for attackers to get to you, as sad as that logic may be.” Nilo explained, “But I shall stick you in one just for the experience one of these days, rather than avoiding any possible assassination attempts. As for the ship, perhaps we can visit the ocean docks while we’re nearby and tour one of our trade ships. We are allied with the ocean territory.” He added though it was more of an idle offer than anything. Just there in case she was interested.

Nilo huffed loudly in mock offense as she claimed he was boring, which was partially right. The man had spent his days doing paperwork since his father had fallen ill, relying heavily on couriers and his court. Although he was planning on making some changes to his duties and new den remodel thrown into their pile of wing requests, for now, he was still the boring prince cooped up in his study. “I am not boring. I am the epitome of entertaining fun, you hear?” He retorted, thought the grin had already returned to his features.

“Even though you have wounded me, I do suppose I can share a story here and there if you are nice to me.” Nilo teased, bumping their legs together. It would be fun to share the tales of his past travels with his family. They were happy memories he had often forgotten about in the midst of his inner turmoil but was now happy to revisit. “But I can’t reveal everything I know to you… ” Nilo mused, fingers playing with the horse’s mane, “Because how can I surprise you once I take you there?” He laughed again, unable to contain his optimism.

It didn’t feel like it took very long to reach the town, the two having chatted the ride away like a pair of songbirds. Nilo dismounted when she did and turned to face her, only to have his arm snatched up almost instantly. Apparently, they were going to walk the short distance to the inn, which he could already see up ahead on the main street. “It appears we are,” Nilo agreed, taking the horse's reins in his free hand. “It’s rather quaint. Just as cozy as I recalled.” He commented, looking around at the buildings, which the setting sun had cast an orange glow upon.

Nilo led her down the row, taking in the sights and shops. It was still a little crowded, but compared to the royal city it was all minuscule. “It looks like the inn has a small stable in the back, so we are in luck. We don’t have to find a place to store our steeds.” They meandered the rest of the way to the inn, clearly in no hurry. They did have somewhere to be, but no rush to get there. “And it seems we have reached our home for the night,” Nilo spoke as he stared up at the little sign, looking the place over simply out of curiosity. “Why don’t you get us a room while I go put the horses away?” He questioned after a moment, head tilting slightly as he looked over at her, “You can take your things and I can meet you up there. Unless you have a better idea?”

The woman looked around as she guided her horse, arm locked in his. It was a lovely town really, and the beautiful glow cast by the sunset made it all the more beautiful. “It is very cozy,” she agreed with a nod, the stray strand of golden hair bobbing in her face. The houses were lined up so beautifully and as they passed through the market square, it was still buzzing with the last of the day’s activity. It really was a painting, but then again, she was biased, looking through the eyes of a newlywed. Though she was sure she would love it no matter where she was in life.

Her head turned when Nilo mentioned the inn. “Well that is certainly handy,” came the warm tone as the made their way there. They were going at a slow pace, arm in arm and enjoying the atmosphere. And that was perfectly fine with Gennadius as she continued to take in every detail that she could. Even as they finally reached their destination for the night, she looked it over slowly, memorizing their first night away together to the fullest detail.

“I do suppose I can get us a room,” the woman hummed out softly before throwing a grin his way. She released his arm and handed the man her reins. Reaching up to the horses, she grabbed both their bags, slinging one over each shoulder as she did so. Shifting them so they were more comfortable, she gave her husband a dip of her head, eyes dancing with mischief as she started for the front. “Make sure you don’t muck up your boots!” she playfully called before disappearing around the corner.

She took the few steps quickly before pushing her way inside and meeting the innkeeper with a charming grin. “Would you happen to have an upper room with a balcony?” The inquiry was met with a brightened expression and a nod as the portly man hurried behind a small counter and pulled out a set of keys. He waved her after him, offering to take a bag to which she only shook her head. The made their way up two flights to the top floor and he led her down the hall before unlocking a door and motioning her in.

“It is the best view we have. You can see the market from here and as you can see it even comes with a fireplace. The wood is already here right next to it. This room also comes with extra blankets by courtesy if you wish for them and the complimentary bath is in that door to the side. It is personal to this room. You are lucky to have gotten it though it is often saved for parties greater than one...”

Gennadius chuckled, dropping both bags onto the bed and motioning to them, “No need to worry about that good sir. This room will be occupied by two and you will be paid for your services.” As he lit up even more, the female shook her head with amusement, knowing full well the man could care less as long as he got paid. “If you would be so kind to send my husband up this way when he comes inside. He’ll be wearing gray peddler’s cap and probably asking what room I’m in.” She reached into her coin pouch and pulled out a few extra to hand to him for his troubles, which he gratefully accepted before starting to leave the room.

“Also!” She pulled out a few more coins, pressing them into his hand, “Would it be too much to ask for two dinners to be brought up to us?”

Pale eyes looked down at the coins and the man shook his head, “Absolutely not madam! I will notify the cooks immediately and even bring it up myself. Will there be anything else? It is my pleasure to serve.”

“No, that will be all for now. Thank you so much for your services,” she responded to which he nodded and hurried out. As soon as he was gone, Gennadius moved around, setting the bags on the floor by the nightstand. Going to the fireplace, she took a few of the logs and placed them in, starting up the fire so it was at a nice crackling burn. Content with that, she closed the curtains and reached up to her hair, pulled out the tie, allowing her golden hair to flow over her shoulders as she pulled her fingers through it. Tossing the tailer into her bag, she undid her sheath and leaned the sword against the wall before fishing out her one book from the bag and flopping onto the bed.

Kicking her boots off, she pulled her legs up and scooted to the head board to rest her back against it, stretching her lower half out over the covers. The fire cast a beautiful light glow around the room, bathing her in orange and yellow, bouncing off her hair as she flipped the book halfway open and started going through it as she waited for Nilo. Not that she really read anything, eyes scanning over the same paragraph over and over. She was far too excited to focus on the words, expectantly glancing at the door for his entrance.