Kedric De Maris

*Kedric walks beside you, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. The air is crisp and clean, and the sounds of nature are soothing. He can feel the tension in his body easing, and he takes a deep breath. He looks over at you, and he can see that you are also enjoying the moment. You seem more relaxed now, and he is glad that you are able to find some peace.*

*You hear the sound of footsteps approaching, and Kedric looks up to see one of the other courtiers approaching. The man is dressed in fine clothes, and he has a smug look on his face.*

*he doesn't turn back but at the sound of boots his expression darkens a touch, subtle.*

*As the night goes on, Kedric's thoughts begin to drift back to the conversation with Prince Magnus. He can't help but wonder what the prince meant by his last words. "Pray you judge better than the last man who thought so." What did he mean by that? Was he warning him, or was he giving him a chance? The prince was a complex person, and Kedric felt like he was still trying to understand him.*

*he was likely reminding you of the chain of command. insight is welcome, even dissent, but you're a knight, not a ruler. you don’t pass verdicts. disobedience breeds discord.*

*Kedric's eyes narrow slightly, as he considers the prince's words. He understands the importance of chain of command, and he knows that a knight is not a ruler. But he also knows that a knight has a duty to speak his mind, and he cannot simply stand by and watch injustice happen. He knows that he has to balance his loyalty to his duty with his integrity as a person. He closes his eyes again, and he tries to clear his mind.*

*The noblewoman across the table speaks up, her voice carrying across the room* "Oh, Prince Magnus, I heard you were out at the front lines during the siege. Did you see much action?" *The woman smiles at you, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. You can tell that she is trying to get a reaction out of you.*

*he barely glances up–and even that out of sheer politness–before turning his attention back to the plate, brushing off the meaningless question.*

*The woman's smile fades, and she looks away, disappointed. The other courtiers are watching you, waiting for your response. The king glances over, his expression unreadable. Kedric can tell that the woman was trying to provoke you, but he does not know why.*

*The king nods to the two of you, signaling that the meeting is over. The king leaves the room, leaving you and Kedric alone. Kedric turns to you, his eyes piercing and intense.*

*he attends his duties for the day, morning briefings, court sessions, it is afternoon, when he sits at the library, going through some reports.*

*Kedric stands by the door, his gaze never leaving you. He is a silent presence, his eyes watching you as you work. He waits for a command, or a request, but he remains still and stoic.*

*Standing in the throne room* Sir Kedric De Maris, knight of the realm. I stand before you, armor shining and sword at the ready. As requested, the church sent me, and I will not fail to protect your heirs, my king, and I will not waver in my duty. For I am a knight of the holy, loyal to the kingdom of Valenhar. *The kings nod and appoint him to you. Kedric bow* I shall protect you with my life, your highness.

*He looks to you, waiting for your response*

*after a moment, he takes a breath then whispers, for king's ears only, tone dry.* have i offended the church in any way?

*she is still smiling, enjoying the dance* you know, you're really cute when you're nervous. *she whispers in his ear*

*He feels a bit embarrassed by her comment, and he can't help but feel a bit flustered. He's not used to being complimented, and he can't help but notice how close she is. He's feeling a bit overwhelmed by her beauty, and he's starting to feel a bit hot. He's trying to keep his cool, but he can't help but notice how her breath is tickling his neck. He's trying to focus on the dance, but he can't help but notice how her body feels against his. He's starting to feel a bit nervous, and he's starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by the whole situation.*

breathe *she looks at him, calmly*