Thread: Lonely Lies the Crown (Annabeth & Khaos)

Looking at Seraphine in mock horror he caressed Brouillard's nose. Don't listen to that mean woman. You are no monster, and don't you worry, I won't let anyone snip you. You are just fine the way you are. He said turning his head towards Seraphine and winking. He had a very legit reason for not gelding his Stallion. Brouillard was a trained war horse and it would be unwise to try and settle him down for that reason alone. Taking position beside her once they were free from the city he followed her into the forest instantly knowing where she wanted to take them. Having to only help her find the way once they arrived at their private place. Looking out over the water at the bridge he couldn't help but smile. This pocket of untouched beauty was theirs alone to share. Dismounting first he dropped Brouillard's reigns letting them hang almost touching the ground. As long as his reigns hung in this manner Brouillard was as good as tied to a post. All part of his training. Quickly removing his hot and heavy gambeson and draping it over Brouillard's back he secured Fidlit's reigns to a tree, leaving Brouillard's reigns hanging free. He trusted his horse to not wander off and he rather have the option of the fastest means of escape if so needed. Reaching up to Seraphine he gently took hold of her waist and lifted her with ease from the saddle to the ground. Just as he let go of her she grabbed onto him and pressed herself against his chest. Enfolding her in his powerful arms he silently cursed the chain-mail he wore under his tunic. He wanted to feel the soft curves of her body against his without the feel of tough metal between them. Snuffing the life from that path of thought with the same ruthlessness he showed the attackers just hours before he held his Princess, content in what he had. When her sobbing began it felt like a frozen dagger was stabbed into his chest. Rennes had never liked the sound of her crying, no matter the reason it broke his heart to hear every time. Caressing her back he spoke in a soft, reassuring whisper. Don't fret precious I'm here. Lowering his face he planted a soft kiss on the top of her head, while giving her a small, loving squeeze of his powerful arms. I believe you Sera, you were very brave in there. I am proud of you for maintaining your head despite what happened and what you saw. Just remember, it is perfectly fine to be afraid, it is what you do in the face of fear that matters and you stood strong with your head held high. Smiling down at her as she looked up Rennes felt a tightening deep in his chest. Even crying she had the visage of a Goddess in his eyes. Letting her go just long enough to cup her cheeks in his large hands he wiped away the few stray tears she missed with his thumbs. I see no sin. Your pride is in skills of a man who has spent his entire life dedicated to the sole purpose of bettering himself for your sake. You are an agent of God doing his good work, I am a tool of work, so I see it as a justified pride that he wouldn't dare punish you for. They brought the evil to that room and I met it in force, and in the aftermath you did as Jesus would and forgave them, and showed mercy on their families. Again tears began to fall from her beautiful eyes and Rennes, who was still cupping her cheeks tilted her face to meet his. Lowing his lips to her face he planted a delicate kiss on either of her eyelids and then on each of her cheeks, the salty taste of her tears staining his lips. Releasing her face he encircled her back into his arms and held her close for several long moments, silently wishing they would last for eternity. A grin spread on his face as a thought occurred to him. It was a lovely day, the sun was sitting high in the clear sky, a light breeze kept it from being to hot out and the water beside them looked refreshing. Easing his hold on her Rennes quickly and effortlessly scooped her up into his strong arms, cradling her against his chest. I am going to cheer you up Sera, we are going to have a little splash around in the river. He said taking long easy strides towards the river. His roguish grin growing on his face. Ignoring her protests about ruining him ruining her gown he calmly reminded her that she was the heir Queen to all of France, she could have another thousand made for her. The same argument applied to his clothing and mail. Stopping right at the rivers edge he looked down into her lovely green eyes and gave her an ultimatum. You are going into this river with me one way or another, so if this dress is that important to you take it off. If not then in we go. I will give you ten heartbeats to decide. He said counting down the time he gave her for her decision.