"My mother also passed when I was born," Gwendolyn said softly, "I am sorry for your loss. In my experience... there is that pain of missing a person you've never met," Gwendolyn took a sip of tea, pressing her lips together afterward, "Your drive is admirable, My - Aldwin," she corrected herself with a wry smile, "Yes. I shall also try my hardest for the people."

Aldwin immediately understood what Gwendolyn spoke of. He felt grief for a woman he only knew through his father's many stories. His father had truly loved her, though he did not know if his mother had felt the same. Regardless, he had always enjoyed hearing about his mother and how she was regarded as both the prettiest, and most respected, woman in the land. She apparently pulled the strings with Aldwin's father in order to do what she wanted to do. They had always been for the good of the people though.

"As I am sorry for your loss as well, it seems we both had a rather similar childhood, though it is definitely not a very nice thing to have in common. And I appreciate the fact that you already call our people your people. Truly." Aldwin smiled at her with a bright expression.

Gwendolyn stiffled a yawn, and smiled sheepishly, "Excuse me. I am sorry to cut this short, as I do enjoy talking with you, but I am tired. If I may take my leave, that would be much appriciated." Gwendolyn set her teacup, now empty, on the tray, "If you are finished with the tea, I can take your cup."

Aldwin nodded, his own exhaustion slipping back into his face. After the tea he really had calmed down and he had an odd feeling that he might actually be able to sleep tonight. "Go ahead Gwendolyn, I do not wish to keep you from sleep. The tea was wonderful, and thank you for both the tea and the conversation." Aldwin smiled, a true smile, and stood up gently putting his cup on the tray as well.

Gwendolyn dipped her head respectfully, "Goodnight, Aldwin - I will see you in the morning," she left the room with the tray, and with a soft click, the door closed behind her.

Ts?

to when?

Hmm, I'm not sure. Maybe Aldwin has like a day off or something cuz he isn't busy and they do something.

yes! riding

-

Gwendolyn approached Aldwin after breakfast a week and a half after that first night when she had brought him tea. She had been working hard alongside Aldwin, helping out where she could, and gaining his trust. With all of their effort, Gwendolyn knew that today there wasn't going to be anything on the agenda. As everyone dispersed from breakfast, Gwendolyn found Aldwin and walked beside him, "Aldwin - There isn't anything to do today, so would you... like to go riding?"

The week had been busy, but with Gwendolyn's help, Aldwin's work had decreased significantly. He had even managed to get more sleep than he'd gotten in months. It was a good change, and he greatly appreciated Gwendolyn's help. The shadows beneath his eyes were hardly visible, and he looked rather healthy. He'd even managed to visit the kitchens and see the people who had once raised him.

So when Gwendolyn suddenly spoke to him, he turned to face her with a genuine smile. He looked more alive than ever. "That would be wonderful Gwendolyn. I suppose we should both get dressed so we don't ruin our clothes. I will meet you at the stables in 15?" He was practically beaming at that point, as he loved riding, and hadn't gone with someone other than his stiff advisers in a very long time.