Val felt like such an outcast sitting in the second row of the Monastery the next morning.

Cillian noticed her fidgeting and put his hand on her thigh, holding it firmly enough to still it. "Stop it, you look like you need a piss."

She tried not to laugh since the most prestigious members of Varian's court were sitting in front of her and probably listening to every little noise she made but smiled nonetheless. "I look ridiculous."

His shaved eyebrow rose. "No you don't, pack it in."

He looked down at himself, regretting saying yes to Tiffin when she insisted on getting him and Thomas new outfits so they could attend and blend in for Val's sake. He was used to loose garments he could move freely in, a doublet was anything but, and he could tell his 'son' felt the same since he kept pulling the collar of his.

"Varian better appreciate this shit."

Val gave him a smirk. "Now who's grumbling too much?"

Cillian nudged Thomas as he started tittering. "Quiet you."

The boy looked around at Val, clearly getting impatient. "How long until King Varian gets here?"

Val didn't have any pockets on her gown so it was up to Cillian to fish in his and pull out his pocket-watch."About ten minutes lad, so not much longer."

Val sighed, leaning back. "I wish I could've seen him beforehand."

Cillian squeezed her thigh. "He'll be fine lass, he's got Tiffin to fill in until you can sort him out at the party."

Thomas started swinging his legs. "Are we going to that Da?"

Cillian still wasn't used to being called that, but Val noticed he was taking it in his stride better than she ever dreamed he would. "Aye lad, we've been invited by King Varian."

Val tried not to snicker at the disdain in his voice as he said it.

"I never thought in my life that I'd be going to a ball with kings and queens." Cillian softened, ruffling the five-year-old's hair.

"Well get used to it my boy, as long as Auntie Val's in Varian's good books, I suspect we'll be going to a lot more."

Val gave them both a smile. "Since when have I been 'Auntie Val'?"

Cillian motioned to Thomas. "You tell her lad, it's only right."

Thomas leant in so he didn't have to shout over the din. "Well, you and Da are close, aren't you? And he told me it's respectful to call good friends of your parents 'auntie' or 'uncle'."

He looked sheepish and Val had a vague idea why. "Though I don't think I should do it to King Varian since, you know, he's the king."

Val reached over and pushed his hair from his eyes, mentally reminding herself that the boy needed a trip to the barbers soon.

"Well, can I let you into a little secret?" Thomas nodded, looking slightly confused at her grin.

"I think Varian would love to be your Uncle, Sweetheart. I tell you what, we'll both talk to him about it at the ball, eh?"

Thomas brightened and nodded instantly. "I would love to!"

Cillian gave Val a grateful smile. "Thank you for helping me with this whole parenting lark lass, it's much appreciated."

Val snorted as quietly as she could manage."You make it sound like I know what I'm doing."

Cillian frowned, bumping his shoulder against hers. "Are you sure you'll be alright with not having your own now?"

Val nodded despite herself, fighting to keep her face blank. "Aye, I have things to occupy my time."

Cillian knew he'd upset her so changed the subject."Ready for tomorrow?"

Val smiled again, fixing the long black gloves she was wearing. "Aye, I just need to make sure I'm up on time."

Cillian chuckled, folding his arms. "Meaning: 'Varian better let me out of that bed'."

Val slapped his shoulder as they both started laughing.

"What's so funny?"

Val shook her head at the inquisitive boy. "Don't worry about it mate, just your Da being an idiot."

Cillian drummed his arm. "Don't suppose you told Minnie you've joined the army?"

Val grimaced. "I did…and I think you can guess the reply I got."

Cillian haughtily huffed. "Did it contain multiple curses, threats upon yours and Varian's person, and a vow to come and drag you to Brinewickherself?"

Val bit her finger to stifle her laughter. "However did you know?"

Cillian's eyebrow rose once again. "Because I know your Grammytoo damn well….and I might have been on the receiving end of her wrath more times than I care to count."

Val shook her head, turning briefly as the crowd outside got louder, meaning Varian had arrived. "Yes well, she's going to have to lump it. I promised to visit after my tour is over, so that will have to do."

A portly older man stood by the doors of the monastery and cleared his throat. "All rise for the King!"

It took Val a second so she could move around her dress, standing with Cillian and feeling his hand quickly squeeze hers. The trumpets practically deafened her as the doors swung open and Varian came in with his party, with Tiffin holding his arm and Jon in front. The councillors were all behind, but they would stand either side of the Throne once Varian's arse was firmly on it.

They watched him stare stonily ahead, keeping his eyes front until they passed and Tiffin waved, making his eyes move and the corners of his lips curve to see Val even there.

Thomas waved back, earning a smile from his 'auntie', who was trying to stay the picture of grace even though she didn't have any.

Once Varian had taken his seat and Tiffin had kissed his hand despite his look, she sat in front of Val, making the smith lightly tap her shoulder as the council took their places and they all sat back down.

"Why aren't you up there?"

Tiffin didn't turn around but spoke from the side of her mouth. "We're not married yet, so I can't be crowned. Mine will come later."

Thomas grimaced."We don't have to come to that one as well, do we?"

Tiffin tittered, turning her head so Thomas knew she was talking to him. "We purposely arranged it for when Val's away my boy, so I doubt it."

Cillian caught Tiffin's eye and smiled sadly at her. "We'll probably be home by then, I've been away too long as it is."

Thomas was craning his neck trying to get a good look at Varian, who Val was very much pleased to find was in the armour she had made him, listening to the opening prayer with as much interest as she was.

He caught her eye for a brief second and they shared a sweet but knowing smile, wondering if she was going to make funny faces or rude noises, but somehow they both realized that wasn't allowed anymore.

This was the moment where they had to grow up, it was a little hard for them to take but it's what had to be done.

She merely stared as Archbishop Alonsus Faol bowed his head to the new King of Stormwind, who gave the clergyman the respect he deserved by returning the gesture. Faol was always a kind man and could see the anguish on Varian's face since he kept his voice steady enough to reassure.

"Fondest greetings to you all. We welcome in this house of the Light those who have come to bear witness to the coronation of good King Varian."

Val was already feeling nervous on Varian's behalf; she knew that he was the same as her when it came to crowds, especially ones that were focused on him. He abhorred too much attention, so this must have been torturous for him, if anything it proved to those who doubted just what he was willing to do for his people when in reality he'd spoken about abdication more times than she could count. He'd never wanted the crown, and yet here he was humbly accepting it for the good of Stormwind, it was something to be admired for Val.

"Council of Stormwind, I present to you all your undoubted King Varian Barathen Wrynn, first of his name. Do you doubt his claim?"

Val couldn't help closing her eyes since she knew there were at least two men on the council that didn't want Varian on the throne, but thankfully all eight of them declared that they had no doubt and accepted him as their monarch. She opened her eyes, leaning back in her seat.

"King Varian Wrynn, do you solemnly swear to govern the people of Stormwind as those have done before you, with compassion, integrity, and fair-mindedness?"

Varian's knuckles were white underneath his gauntlets and he swallowed to wet his throat. "I do so promise and swear."

Faol carried on despite how nervous Varian was. "Will you uphold the laws of your Kingdom?"

Varian nodded solemnly. "I will."

Cillian leant in to speak to Tiffin, who was only half engaged as they were. "They're speeding through this a bit ain't they?"

Tiffin nodded, trying not to turn around. "It's just a formality really, we know Varian's king but it needs to be made official. The ceremony itself doesn't actually last that long."

Thomas earned a swat around the head for his muttered "thank the Light", threatening to make Val laugh, which would be so inappropriate right now that she had to bite her finger to stop it.

Of course, Varian noticed and was trying not to smile, though thankfully he had a lot more discipline and kept his face straight.

"Will you nurture your people, keep the faith of the Light in Stormwind, and guide them into prosperity?"

Varian once again nodded, sincerity swimming in his blue eyes. "All this I promise to do. The things which I have here before promised, I will perform and keep. So help me Light."

Faol raised a bony hand and rested it on the crown of Varian's head, making the brunette close his eyes with the rest of the witnesses.

Val knew Cillian wouldn't partake in the prayer since he felt it would make him a hypocrite; he had made it clear on many an occasion that he didn't respect the Light at all, he acknowledged that it was real and didn't accuse it of being imaginary, but had little faith in its abilities whatsoever...which unfortunately, was where she stood in terms of worship nowadays.

"Holy Light, we ask that you guide King Varian to the path of righteousness, and not let him forget his people, or his duty. Forgive his trespasses and show compassion whenever he asks. May the Light bless me…"

Val barely heard herself whisper "and may I serve the Light", and apparently, Cillian noticed how quiet she'd gone, nudging her side. "You alright?"

She nodded despite herself, realizing that Tiffin had been right; the ceremony was almost over already and it had only felt like five minutes had passed, it was a little jarring. "I just need a drink, that's all."

Cillian squeezed her hand, linking their fingers. "You and me both lass. We'll get one before anything else, I promise."

Cillian held her hand all the while Faol lifted Varian's newly forged crown above her beloved's head, clearing his throat.

"With this crown, I pronounce you King Varian Barathen Wrynn, first of his name and sovereign lord of Stormwind. Long may you reign."

And just like that, it was over. Llane was all but forgotten, a figment of the past and Varian was the new ruler of Stormwind. Cillian helped Thomas stand as cheers of "Light bless the King" rang out and Varian stood, looking like he had the weight of the world on his shoulders.

He bowed to Faol and stepped down, away from the throne that looked more like a torture device to him, down to the altar in front of it, made of beautifully carved stone with a candle in the middle, one Varian lit and bent in front of, saying goodbye to the previous monarch as so many had done before him.

"Esteemed guests of His Majesty are invited to Lordaeron Keep for the celebration of King Varian's ascension to the throne. On behalf of King Varian, I thank you all for attending and wish you a pleasant journey to those who will not be joining us."

Arthas' voice was strong across the room, and Val felt awful not realizing he was even here since he and Terenas had their royal box beside the throne, but knew the blonde wouldn't mind in the slightest.

Arthas knew how hard the next few occasions would be on them all, so had given them some elbow room when it came to their emotions.

Varian held his arm out for Tiffin, who took it and smiled reassuringly, walking with him as he tried not to run out of the building, as much as his legs were aching to. He quickly and firmly grabbed Val's hand as he went past (which explained to her why Tiffin had insisted she choose the aisle seat), squeezing it and leaving indents from his gauntlet joints on her gloves once he let go.

"What happens now Da?" Cillian shrugged, not quite knowing himself.

"I presume we just wait until he's gone then start making our way back."

Val wasn't listening to either of them, she was too busy watching Varian's back like it was the most interesting thing in the world.

"Auntie Val, are you alright?" She wished people would stop asking her that.

It wasn't that she was ungrateful for the concern, far from it, but it was quite the useless question considering everything that had happened. Thomas had the resilience of a child, this hadn't affected him that much, but Val was still trying to wrap her head around the fact that Stormwind was gone, Varian was now king and her brother was dead…

It had all happened in the space of a month, it was a wonder that she hadn't gone mad yet. She finally turned to the boy, realizing she was holding those who had been seated next to them up and taking his hand, practically pulling the five-year-old from the building with Cillian having to quicken his stride to catch up.

"Yes darling, I'm fine. I'm just a little worried about Uncle Varian, that's all."

Cillian pulled his cigarettecase out, realizing the carriage Arthas had assigned them would wait since the driver was doing the same thing. "Varian's a big boy lass, he can handle this."

Val cut the end off hers and let him light it, blowing the smoke away from Thomas as they merely stood outside. "I don't think he can Cil, that's what's worrying me. He's not as mentally strong as everyone thinks he is."

Cillian leant against the wall of the monastery, watching the throngs of people still gathered as if Varian hadn't just left. "The people support him, you can't deny that."

Val had to agree. "I didn't think they would if I'm completely honest. Llane was so beloved, it's hard for some to accept change."

Cillian took another drag, resting a palm on Thomas' head."They knew he had to become King eventually Val, it wasn't as if it were up for debate. Llane wasn't immortal, people knew that."

Val pinched the bridge of her nose in a vain attempt to stop the headache that was threatening to appear.

"Shouldn't we be going?"

Val threw her cigaretteon the ground, knowing the boy was right but not wanting to go if she were honest.

To her it was another event where she and Varian had to put on masks and pretend they were enjoying not being able to even hug without people condemning them, it was infuriating. Cillian helped her into the carriage, banging the ceiling twice when they were all sitting down and lounging back as it started moving.

"Never thought I'd be riding in one of these."

Val didn't mean to be pessimistic yet here she was. "Well my horse burned with Stormwind, so this will have to do for now."

Thomas got onto his knees and leant out of the window causing Cillian to grab the back of his shirt. "Get your arse back in here now boy before you fall out that window and break your neck!"

Thomas only obeyed a little, still sticking his head out instead.

"Are you sure the army is what you want lass? There's still a place for you on the Rose."

That made Thomas' head swoop back in. "Oh please come with us, Auntie Val! It'll be so great!"

Val laughed at his enthusiasm, shaking her head and smoothing her skirt. "No little lad, I'm staying here. I have my training tomorrow, I need to get ready."

She turned her attention back to Cillian."And yes, it is what I want. I need to get myself busy again Cil."

Cillian didn't look convinced. "What, and the army is the only way to do that?"

Val scrunched her nose. "No, but it's the only one that appeals to me. I…I want to go home Cil. Lordaeron is lovely, and Terenas has been a brilliant host…but I'm homesick. If I can help clear Stormwind quicker then I'll do what I can."

Cillian leaned forward, still holding on to his son's shirt since the road was getting bumpy. "Then all I can say is good luck, stay safe and if you want to quit and come home, you say the word and I'll be in Westfall harbour faster than you can fart."

She took his hand, feeling him squeeze it. "Thank you, Cil. It's nice to have one person not arguing with me about this."

Cillian sat back, really hating how his stomach was threatening to leap from his mouth with the way he was being bounced up and down. "I have no interest in arguing with anyone love, it wastes far too much time I could be using productively."

Thomas let Val smooth his hair once he sat down properly and closed the window of the carriage, sitting next to his 'auntie' and leaning on her. "Who's going to be at the ball, Auntie?"

Val shrugged, stroking his head. "I have no clue. I know Genn and Liam Greymane are here, and I'm assuming the leaders of Kul Tiras and Alterac."

Cillian put his foot on their seat. "I saw the King of Samarkand in there." Val's brow furrowed, trying to remember if she had seen anyone looking remotely Samark.

Samarkand was a small but bountiful island to the southeast of the mainland, it was considered a desert island yet the people prospered due to the ancient magicks found there giving them the means to survive without any interference from other kingdoms.

They had started trade with Stormwind after Lothar had quashed a troll invasion that was heading for the country and felt a debt had to be paid, so the silks, spices, and other 'exotic' treasures that would come to Stormwind were always fascinating to Val, who would spend hours choosing which shell she wanted for her chambers. She had a great interest in Samarkand and was excited to meet them now Cillian had said it.

"Did you? Which one was he?"

Cillian snorted, letting Thomas climb onto his lap since he was reclining enough to make it comfortable. "You honestly didn't see him? Dark tan, coiffed hair, gold robes?" That managed to jog Val's memory a little.

She vaguely remembered seeing a tall man fitting that description sitting across from them with Genn, Liam, and the other leaders, and now she thought about it, he was covered in enough jewels to make it blindingly obvious where he came from. Gold was Samarkand's best export, and the capital, Bonan, was known as the city of gold, so it stood to reason that its ruler would be dripping in the stuff.

"He looked like a thief's wet dream."

Cillian chuckled, settling into his seat more. "I won't lie, I did stare a little too long at those rocks on his fingers."

He smirked, making sure Thomas hadn't fallen asleep. "His wife isn't bad either."

Val took a glove off so she could itch her eye without smudging her face paint, laughing all the same."I wouldn't know."

Cillian bit off a yawn, realizing how boring carriage rides were. "Oh trust me, you will once we get there. Hard to believe she's had sixteen kids already."

Val couldn't help her look of shock, whether Cillian deliberately said it to shock her was debatable. "Sixteen? Fuck that with a stick."

She involuntarily shivered."I couldn't imagine having sixteen children."

Cillian shrugged, sitting up more to wake himself up. "That's normal over there love, why do you think their population keeps shooting up?"

Val played with the glove she still hadn't put back on. "Do you think he'll agree to this 'alliance' Terenas is on about?"

The pirate clucked his tongue as he thought about his answer."I have absolutely no clue lass. It's not that they don't have the men- he's renowned for his army- but he's very, how do I put this?…he's proud. Varian will need to come up with a damn good argument to get him on board."

Thomas looked in from his spot at the window again."Surely the orcs are enough of an argument, Da?"

Val could see what Cillian meant and she wasn't sure whether that was good or not. "No lad, he'll see it as something confined to the mainland and essentially not his problem. Varian will have to convince him that everyone, regardless of geography is in danger."

Cillian bumped a downcast Thomas' chin."But Lothar and Khadgar will be there to fight his corner, so it's highly unlikely that he will say no."

Val pinched the bridge of her nose. "Greymane on the other hand…"

Cillian rolled his eyes, keeping a good grip on his son. "Why the hells Terenas even invited him I have no clue. He brings nothing but arrogance to the table."

Val's eyebrow rose in amusement."For a pirate you know an awful lot about politics."

Cillian gave her a dirty look. "Lass, I kind of need to know about the politics of places I'm planning on pillaging to sort out whether it's worth it or not. And in case you haven't noticed, the Horde are as much a threat to me as everyone else. The sooner we get rid of them the better."

Val leant her elbow on the window frame, resting her chin on her palm. "Varian told me that more of them have come through the portal."

Cillian rightly frowned. "So, are you and your army mates storming the thing after Stormwind's cleared?"

Val nodded despite the morbid nature of the conversation."Most likely."

Cillian huffed in amusement. "I take it I'll only be wasting my breath if I say 'be careful'?"

Val nodded with a smile. "Varian gave up a few days ago."

She chuckled to herself. "You should've seen him when I told him I'm staying in the barracks."

Cillian laughed heartily, knowing full well how the king must've reacted."Where are they?"

Val gave him a wry smile. "Brill, so I'll be away from the city."

Cillian didn't stop grinning. "I take it he didn't appreciate that?"

Val scrunched her nose. "We had an hour-long shouting match about it. It was only because Tiffin came back and pulled us apart that we didn't kill each other."

Thomas waved to those they were passing as if he were royalty himself. "But he's alright with it, isn't he?"

Val patted the boy's backside, making him come back into the carriage so she could close the window, not wanting anyone else to hear this. "He is, but he isn't if that makes any sense? He knows he can't stop me, but would if he could."

Cillian started laughing to himself. "And lo, the king locked the humble smithy in a tower for the rest of her days…"

Val kicked his leg, despite laughing herself. "Let's not go too far, shall we? Varian's not a psychopath."

Thomas huffed, slamming down on the seat. "Are we there yet?"

Cillian's eyebrows both went up. "Does it look like we're fucking there?"

Val knew how the boy felt; although it was probably only an hour's journey at most from the monastery back to the capital but it felt like it was taking forever.

"I need to go."

Cillian furrowed his brow."Go where?"

The coin dropped for both adults at once.

"Ah…can you hold it?" Thomas shook his head, making Cillian groan in annoyance and bang the ceiling.

"Stop for a sec mate!" The carriage slowed and as the pirate lifted the boy out and took him over to the trees dotting the sides of the road, Val could only think about whether she was indeed making the right decision.

Varian would come to terms with it eventually, hells, he was already practically there, but she knew she was only making him worry more when he didn't need it right now.

He would always support her, but she would still feel a little guilty about deciding without him when all their lives they'd consulted each other on practically everything.

Maybe she was thinking too much. Maybe she was underestimating Varian's resilience, and he was perfectly fine with how everything was going in terms of 'them'. She would soon find out she supposed.

Thomas' little stop delayed their short journey, added to the rain that had started just as they got to the gates of the city and they were well and truly late by this point. Val wiped her shoulders to at least try and dry them as they finally made it to the palace, with Cillian using his cloak to rub on Thomas' hair.

Val was already making her way to the ballroom, anxiously waiting for Cillian to give their invitation to the doorman, hoping to the Light that the braziers were on so she could stand next to one and warm up.

"Mister Cillian Beaufort, Miss Valerica Glenmore and Master Thomas Beaufort!"

Val didn't even care that everyone was looking at this point; she had been in this situation so many times that it was water off of a duck's back now. Tiffin clocked her first and came striding over, kissing her cold cheeks.

"We were starting to wonder where you were! What happened?"

Thomas let the blonde lift him and kiss his forehead, not liking how chilled the boy was. Cillian went to get them some drink whilst Val filled her in, making Tiffin end up laughing and holding Thomas tighter. "Oh, you poor lamb. Oh well, you're here now aren't you, that's all that matters."

Val looked around, not seeing Varian anywhere. "Tiffin, where's Varian?"

Tiffin's lips drew into a line. "Outside, he's not really in the mood to socialize. I was hoping you could talk some sense into him."

Val patted her shoulder, pointing to the door on the other side of the room and earning a nod. "Right, give me five minutes."

She waved to Arthas, who knew where she was going and wouldn't stop her.

She knew instantly that Varian was agitated when she found him pacing, with the only noises in the courtyard being the small clinks of the rain hitting his armour and his incoherent grumbles.

She gave him a second before clearing her throat. "Your Majesty is getting rather wet out here."

Varian's chuckle betrayed his bad mood, turning on his heel to face her, but soon straightening his face and looking concerned."Where have you been? The ball started half an hour ago."

Val waved a hand with a smile on her face. "Thomas needed a piss, nothing more. Well, that and we kind of stopped for a breath before we came."

Varian was glad he'd come out here since everyone had gone inside, giving them an unintentional private moment. He slicked back her damp hair, kissing her cheeks.

"I wish I had that luxury. All I've had today are people stuffed up my arse."

Val folded her arms, showing him the goose-pimples on them. "And here was me thinking you enjoyed the attention."

Varian's dirty look made her laugh before she even finished her sentence. "I would think you know me better than that Sweetheart." He sighed, ushering her indoors. "I know it's all part of becoming King, but there have been so many fake well-wishers today that I'm starting to think this is just a fever dream I can't wake up from."

Val waited for him to close the door, very much conscious of the fact that everyone had seen her with him since they had stopped and bowed to Varian, only standing once they were satisfied that he had acknowledged them.

Varian put her arm in his, ignoring her pleading look as he led her to the small group of royals standing by the platform that the king's table sat on. "It's only for today Varian then you can carry on with the war effort. Be a typical royal just for today and I bet you'll be thanked for it."

Arthas made a noise of agreement as the first plates were picked at, platters full of sweetmeats, roasted beasts, potatoes, seafood, everything Val could think of was sitting waiting to be eaten by those gathered.

"She's right Varian, just grin and bear it, that's the best you can do."

Val was glad that faces she knew were in the huddle; Liam, Tiffin, and Arthas would have to put up with her practically sticking to them if Varian was called away since she knew no one else here apart from Lothar and Khadgar, who was nowhere to be found.

"Where's Anduin?"

Varian's jaw clenched. "He's making final preparations for deploying what little army we already have tomorrow. They'll go to Stormwind, assess the threat, and search for any survivors."

Val's brow furrowed, wondering if she had missed her training already in a cruel twist of fate."But they won't engage?"

Varian shook his head to her relief. "No, not yet. They'll be discreet and try to give us a clear picture of what we're dealing with."

Liam gave her a grin. "So don't worry, you can still go and kick some arse, Val."

Quiet laughter was his response, and Val turned around, noticing the music had started up again. "It looks like things are really in full swing already."

Thomas looked sheepish when he came back holding a plate piled with food."Sorry we were late, that was my fault."

Varian ruffled his hair, sweeping the damp locks back. "Don't worry about it lad, you didn't miss much."

Val thanked Arthas for the wine he passed her and took a generous gulp. "So who's here that we should know about?"

Varian clenched his jaw. "Well, Daelin Proudmoore is with Genn, meaning that he probably feels the same about the Horde as he does."

Liam gave him a chiding look. "Varian, we don't know that, don't assume."

Tiffin carried on for Varian since she could tell his bad mood was coming back."King Trollbane and King Perenolde didn't turn up, yet they assure they'll be here for the meeting tomorrow."

Tiffin couldn't help her small smile. "King Nizaar's son is very eager for an alliance."

Val tried not to look too eager to meet the Samark. "Where is he?"

Varian's eyebrow cocked in amusement. "He's with Terenas by the drinks table."

She found him and realized what Cillian had meant by the grandeur of the man. His golden robes were tied over the silkiest shirt she had ever seen, with enough jewels to make her question whether some were even real. But what jarred her more was his wife.

She hadn't used the word 'stunning' for anyone in her life, but she found herself questioning just what in the Light's good grace Varian saw in her knowing there were women like this wandering Azeroth.

Tall, lithe, and beautiful were the three words she could conjure to describe the Queen, and all it did was make her remember her own faults and wither.

"Sweetheart? What's the matter?"

Val snapped from her trance, looking up at Varian and trying not to look too obvious. "…what the fuck do you see in me, Varian?"

He looked utterly stunned at the out of nowhere question, but Tiffin put a supportive hand on her shoulder."Disgusting, isn't she? I thought the same when I saw her. Queen Mekare, probably the most good looking woman in all of Azeroth."

Varian came to his senses as he realized what had prompted the- in his mind- stupid question. "Oh Val, don't start with that codswallop. I didn't even notice her."

Val scratched her scars, feeling them pull as if they knew she was thinking about them."But I'm so-"

Varian's large palm covered her mouth, making their group laugh more than they should of.

"Enough," he whispered. "I will not hear another word of self-deprecation come from those plump little lips of yours. Come to my chambers later and I'll show you what I see in you."

Her cheeks turned a brilliant crimson, and she swatted his arm once he let her go. She had swapped chambers with Tiffin yesterday after talking to her about it, with both of them agreeing that since Varian would officially be king today it was no longer good form for Val to share his chambers with him. It was a disheartening realisation but one that had been looming for the week they'd enjoyed what they had been doing.

Thankfully Arthas had sympathised and had a little workaround installed; a door in the wall that separated the two rooms, so Tiffin and Val could enter through their doors, then swap chambers instantly, so no one would see Val go in with Varian, it was simple yet brilliant. So Varian's invitation to go to his chambers tonight was one that Val could easily fulfill.

"So is everyone going to the meeting tomorrow that was invited?"

Arthas grimaced at the Captain. "Yes, and I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not."

Liam was ever the optimistic one. "We all know the threat is real, we know it can't be faced by one Kingdom alone, everyone will reach a consensus, I'm sure of it."

Varian pinched the bridge of his nose. "Just don't hold it against me if I murder your father."

Liam snorted, giving his empty goblet to Nan."I bloody well will, since that means I'm king if you do, you bastard."

A small, black-haired man that looked older than Varian interrupted them by sliding between the king and Val, leaning up to his ear.

"Your Majesty, it's becoming apparent around the ball that you haven't announced your wedding date yet, may I suggest you do so now to quiet any unrest? They're wondering whether they should call Lady Tiffin 'Her Majesty'or not."

Varian's lip curled in annoyance and he waved the man away. "Fine, fine. Give me a minute's peace Gregor, for Light sake."

The man bowed and backed away, ignoring their looks of confusion. "Your Majesty."

Once he'd gone Cillian pointed in his direction. "So…who the fuck was that?"

Varian exhaled slowly through his nose. "His name is Gregor, and he has just been appointed my chamberlain. Expect to see him a lot more."

Liam's eyebrow rose as he stole one of Thomas' prawns and popped it into his mouth, ruffling his hair at the loud 'oi' he received, even though the both of them were grinning. "Well, he seems a charming fellow. Not King five minutes and he's wanting you to declare the wedding."

Varian shared a guilty look with Tiffin. "Val, we're sorry, but we have no choice…"

Val shrugged as if it were nothing. "Sooner it's over with, the better. Go on, before they start baying for blood."

Varian took Tiffin's hand and Cillian's arm went around Val's waist as the two stood in front of the King's table and Varian cleared his throat for quiet.

"As already said, I thank you all for joining us tonight. Lady Tiffin and I would like to start by joyously declaring that contrary to what has befallen us, we still have every intention to marry. In two months, I will make this jewel my Queen, to be crowned as I have been today."

The applause was practically deafening and Cillian merely tightened his grip on Val as Varian gave her a sad smile. "Once again, thank you, and enjoy our good King Terenas' gracious hospitality."

Apparently, that was the elder royal's cue to come and join them all since Terenas, Nizaar, Mekare, and who Val could only assume was the Prince of Samarkand exchange bows with those in their little circle who deserved it.

Nizaar set his jaw at Cillian, who looked like a child had been caught with sweeties. "Cillian Beaufort, I'll admit I wasn't expecting to see you at this kind of event."

Val gave Cillian a dirty look."What did you do?"

Cillian threw both of his hands up. "Whoa, why do you automatically assume I did something?"

Varian was giving him the same look Val was. "Because normally you have, now answer the question."

Cillian chuckled, putting his hands on his hips. "I did a bit of…. 'work' for His Majesty years ago, alright?"

He noticed that they still looked suspicious."Oi, not all I do is steal thank you!" Now Varian looked at a laughing Nizaar, not quite believing it. "What kind of work?"

Nizaar stopped laughing and folded his arms. "Cillian and his crew had a debt to pay to me and I needed someone taken care of, that's all."

Thomas looked up at his father, though Varian didn't like how impressed he was. "Did you kill someone, Da?"

Liam and Arthas both snorted at his childish bluntness, but Cillian shushed the boy, ruffling his hair. "As far as any law-man knows, no I didn't."

Mekare gestured to Thomas, but strangely she was focusing on Val. "Your son is an absolute delight."

Val started, wondering if she'd heard her correctly. "I'm sorry, what did you say?"

Even Mekare's laugh sounded pretty, it was quite sickening. "Your son, he's a wonderful little boy."

Her forehead creased, though Val was sure only one line appeared. "Thomas is your son, is he not?"

Val heard Varian growling and quickly shook her head."Oh! No, no, Thomas isn't mine, I don't have any children! He's Cillian's!"

Arthas was trying so hard not to laugh at the misunderstanding that his face resembled a cherry, and even Terenas was chuckling to himself.

Mekare wasn't done there and gestured to Cillian. "I just assumed because he looks like you and Captain Beaufort that he'd finally gotten off of his backside and asked you to marry him."

Varian's teeth were grinding to the point where both Val and Tiffin were convinced they were about to fall out.

Cillian thankfully didn't make it worse by jesting, instead, he set the Queen straight. "No my Malika, I can categorically tell you now that Thomas is neither of ours, he is one hundred percent adopted, and I have no intention of marrying Val, so I don't know where you got that from. She's with Varian for Light sake!"

And instantly, he shut up, realizing he'd put his boot right in it. Val felt that bastard anxiety creeping up on her as even Terenas looked like he didn't know what to say.

Varian cleared his throat, knowing there was no point trying to cover it up, and in all honesty, he didn't want to. "Cillian speaks the truth my friends; Val and I are together, we have been for years."

Nizaar's son spoke first, making Val worry at how straight his face was. "…And? Why is that a problem?" He started laughing at the blank stares the couple gave him.

"You…you're not concerned that he's marrying in two months but just told you we're together?"

Mekare waved a hand of dismissal, nearly blinding Tiffin with her jewels. "Arranged marriages are the bane of our existence as Royals, and half the time there is no love between the people involved. Nizaar and I married for love, we were lucky, but we do not condemn those who aren't so."

Val was sure that she was about to cry. "I could kiss you right now."

The whole circle laughed at that one, and Mekare swept Val's hair back affectionately. "You two should be telling everyone about your love, not hiding it like this."

Tiffin grimaced, wringing her hands. "I'm afraid Stormwind society isn't as relaxed as Samarkand. There are a lot of people in this room that would die to know their king doesn't worship the woman he's being forced to marry."

Terenas looked grave."I tried to push a marriage onto my daughter a few years ago and all it did was break her heart. I've never forgiven myself for it."

Arthas put a reassuring hand on his father's bony shoulder. "She however forgave you for it long ago father. Everything works itself out in the end, you just have to have faith."

Liam saw that as a good segue into a conversation that wasn't about political marriage, something his father had been playing around within his head, and something he was very much against. "Speaking of faith, isn't your ascension coming up Arty?"

Arthas' eye twitched at the prolonged use of that abhorrent nickname, but since he knew it would be improper to strangle the Gilnean prince, he merely nodded. "A month, my friend. I'll admit, I'm not as nervous as I thought I would be."

Tiffin frowned. "It's just a shame you can't have it in the cathedral of Light."

Arthas shrugged as if it were nothing. "As long as I can have it, I'm not going to grumble about where it is. I just pray Sir Uther hasn't suddenly changed his mind about me."

Liam showed how long he'd been out of the loop with his next question. "And will Jaina be attending? I noticed she's not here tonight with her father."

Val bent to the redhead's ear, explaining that Arthas, who had turned stony, and Jaina weren't a couple anymore and Liam's cheeks went as red as his small sideburns. "Oh, my greatest apologies Arthas!"

Arthas shook his head, clearly not wanting to show how affected he still was by it. He too had noticed that Daelin Proudmoore had come alone, lamenting that Jaina couldn't even bear to see him anymore.

It was made worse when he had to sit here and watch couples left and right that shouldn't have worked but did, it made him regret everything he had said to her that night.

"No, there's no apologies necessary old friend. You didn't know, I can't condemn you for that."

Nizaar's son, who introduced himself as Adil, cleared his throat, looking to Varian. "Your Majesty, would it offend if I snatched Miss Glenmore away for a dance?"

Varian chuckled, draining the last of his drink. "I'm not her father, nor her keeper; she does what she wants, I don't control that."

Val kissed his arm, giving Adil her hand."And I want to dance since a certain king always kicks up a stink when I ask him to."

Arthas snorted at Varian's look of indignation. "I can't dance, I've accepted that fact, why would I want to make an arse of myself?"

Val was laughing as the two of them joined the other dancers, and even though it was the most boring of dances taking place, she was far too intrigued by who she was dancing with to care.

His dark skin, short black hair, and sharp features were so different from any man in Stormwind -or Lordaeron for that matter- that she couldn't stop looking at him. He had amber coloured eyes and a think chinstrap beard accompanied by a finely trimmed moustache, and it seemed his mouth was in a permanent smirk as they turned together.

"You look as if you have a million questions."

She flashed him her most charming smile. "And would you mind if I asked merely a couple?"

Adil laughed, a velvety sound that she was starting to think all Samarkspossessed. "Ask however many you want, as long as you don't mind me doing the same about Stormwind?"

Val tried not to flinch at the idea, nodding despite herself."Of course. I take it you didn't go there often?"

Adil shook his head, somehow staying in time with the music better than she was. "Unfortunately no. Which leads to my first question. Apparently, it was surrounded by trees? A forest?"

Val nodded fondly, missing Elwynn all the more. "It was, they would stretch for absolute miles. Varian and I would spend all day in there sometimes."

She chuckled, clapping half-heartedly as the song ended and one that sounded the same (to her at least) started up, letting Adil hold her. "We even stayed overnight at points, it used to infuriate our fathers."

He grinned, obviously seeing the twinkle in her eyes. "I take it you disobeyed them often?"

Val scrunched her nose. "Not all the time, but frequently enough to make them go a little bit grey, yes."

Adil twirled her, not helping how much she strangely wanted to swoon. "And your father is a lord? I assume that's why you knew King Varian in the first place?"

Val shook her head, finding it quite impressive how they were carrying on a conversation whilst doing this."No, my father was a smith, as am I."

Adil's face dropped a little. "Apologies, I didn't know he had passed."

Val shrugged, not feeling anything about it. "It's fine, honestly. He's been gone for long enough that I can't find the energy to cry any more."

Adil's smile returned. "But I can see King Varian loves you despite your lack of title, it's refreshing to see."

Val's eyebrow rose. "Oh? How can you tell that? You've only known him three minutes."

Adil's smile widened. "Well, a good sign is that he hasn't taken his eyes off you this whole time." He turned Val so she could see what he meant, and in the brief second she saw Varian she felt her heart flutter at his dopey smile, it was her favourite thing in the world to see and Adil noticed.

"It's such a shame you two cannot marry."

Val still smiled at him despite the subject. "That doesn't matter to us. We know where our hearts belong, that's all that counts."

She poked his chest, still turning with him. "Now, didn't you promise me a few questions?"

Adil bowed his head. "I did. Go ahead, I will answer what I can." Val couldn't help her snicker.

"First off, how old is Queen Mekare?"

Adil laughed, taking her across the floor. "Would you believe me if I said fifty-two?"

Val's jaw hung open. "Are you fucking serious? Light damn her, honestly!"

Adil's laughter was attracting attention but neither of them cared. "Well if I knew her secret I would indulge you, but I think it might just be the amount of time she's in the sun that does it."

That led to Val's next question. "Is it always hot in Samarkand then?"

Adil slowly nodded, taking her by the waist. "We have a few days of rain a month, but mostly sunshine, yes."

Val let out a little jealous sigh. "I would love to be in the sun right now, Lordaeron in winter isn't the most fun in Azeroth."

Adil thought for a second before smiling again. "Well, maybe you can come to Bonan one day?"

Val shook her head. "No, I have my duties here. If by the Light's grace I get time I might though, from what I've read it's a marvel to behold."

She noticed the runes on Adil's arm. "Is it true that over half of the population are mages?"

He nodded, rolling the sleeve of his bronze coloured robes up and showing her fully."Hekalihas blessed my kingdom with his ancient magicks, passed on from generation to generation."

She stopped dancing, running her fingers over the glowing symbols in slight awe. "Through the yearly festival?"

Adil grinned. "I see you have been reading up on Samarkand. Indeed, a festival to thank him is held every year, with the blood of a king offered as tribute."

Val's brow furrowed. "But a king doesn't die every year, does he?"

Adil quickly shook his head. "No! No, it's just a cut across the hand. I don't even know if it works, but I'm too scared to question it in-case it pisses Thoth off." Val's laugh was cut short by a firm hand on her shoulder.

"Apologies my friend, but I require Miss Glenmore."

Adil grinned at Varian, bowing low. "She's all yours, Your Majesty. And can I speak plainly?"

Varian waved a hand of permission, still holding onto Val's shoulder.

"Miss Glenmore is truly a woman to hold onto. A curious jewel. I'll admit it's refreshing to have a woman ask questions instead of just stay silent until they are spoken to."

Varian's smile already told the man that he agreed."I won't argue with the truth. She's always had her mind, and I respect her greatly for it. Now if you excuse us?"

Adil took his leave and Val looked quizzingly at Varian. "Where are we going?"

Varian took her hand, putting his other on the bump of her hip. "Nowhere. Now hush and enjoy this, it'll probably be the only time it happens for a very long while."

Val's eyebrow rose and the other one joined it as the new king brazenly danced with a woman that everyone here knew was not to become his wife.

"Varian, are you insane?" Her hiss only made him smirk, watching everyone else cautiously dance around them as he twirled her.

"Maybe, is that a problem?"

Val could feel her limbs stiffening but he squeezed her hand. "Don't worry about them Sweetheart, they don't know anything."

Val wasn't convinced, and no amount of smiles from Tiffin soothed her. "Everyone's looking."

Varian merely carried on smiling. "No, they're not. Look closer Sweetheart, no one is even bothered."

Val took his instruction and looked around, realising that in a way…he was right. Of course, there were the select few who were watching them, mostly consisting of his councillors, but other than that, the only people who seemed remotely interested were their friends.

It was a pleasant surprise and made Val realize that when Varian was a prince, people thought they had more sway over what he did or said, so inserted themselves into his business more. Now he was king…well, no one could speak against anything. Any power they believed to have had over him had dissipated and no one wanted to provoke the ruling monarch.

"Holy Light you're right…"

The pure joy in Varian's laugh made it impossible not to mimic."See? It's just a dance Val, we can enjoy that."

Val shrugged in resolution. "I suppose you're not the first king in their eyes to have a mistress."

Varian lifted her, sweeping her in an arc as the rest of the men were doing with their partners and putting her back down. "True. As much as we don't like calling you it, I suppose that's all people see when they look at us, then they stop caring."

Val grinned as he pulled her in again, only just resisting the urge to kiss them. "Then let's enjoy the last night we have before the chaos begins again, Your Majesty."

By the time the ball had started winding down, Val was ready to drop. She had grossly underestimated just how much dancing she would partake in tonight, added to the energy of a five-year-old who'd never been to a party like this and she was exhausted by eleven.

She embraced Mekare and kissed her cheek, letting Adil brush his lips over her knuckles and bowing to Varian even though it wasn't necessary.

The king bent to her ear, kissing the lobe when he deemed it safe to. "Give me about half an hour, then I'm all yours."

Val smiled at him, folding her arms. "I'm going to have a bath and change anyway, so take your time. Night Your Majesty."

Varian ruffled her hair, laughing at her swats and protests, letting her go with Cillian to the front doors of the palace and trying not to react to the kiss on her cheek that he gave her.

"I didn't think I'd see you smile today."

He looked down at Tiffin, who was trying not to look smug but failing spectacularly. She took his arm since they'd already given his closing speech, giving them the freedom to retreat to their chambers.

"Maybe it wasn't as abysmal as I first anticipated it to be."

Tiffin's smile looked genuine. "It was lovely seeing Val finally relax. Watching you two dance-filled me with such…well, I suppose the correct word would be 'hope'."

Varian couldn't do anything but agree."I think she's finally come to terms with the fact that everything changes now I'm king, and things aren't as scandalous as they should be. At least not vocally."

Tiffin went in first, letting him close the door behind him. "I think she was just worried that she'd get the abuse to her face about it all. She does seem a very anxious young woman."

Varian sighed, undoing his doublet. "She's suffered from anxiety attacks since we were young. If she's in a situation where there's either a crowd she doesn't know or people whispering she goes into panic mode and freezes. I do what I can but when it happens there's not a lot that helps."

Tiffin let her hair down, running her fingers through it and massaging her aching scalp. "That's awful and very unexpected in such a confident person. I would never have guessed she suffered so."

Varian waved a hand of dismissal, putting his jewels away and closing the drawer that held the key. "She's not suffering Tiffin, it doesn't happen that often. She didn't have an attack tonight, don't worry about her."

Tiffin looked to the door that led to Val's chambers. "I take it you're abandoning me soon?"

Her grin and giggles made him realize she was jesting and he narrowed his eyes. "You're quite the bloody trickster, aren't you Lady Ellerian?"

Nevertheless, he squared his shoulders. "And if it's agreeable with you, I probably will be spending the night with Val."

Tiffin gave him a sure smile. "And why exactly wouldn't I be agreeable?"

Varian looked strangely sheepish. "I don't know, In all honesty, I keep expecting you to suddenly turn and tell me it's an atrocity that I keep leaving you."

Tiffin's laugh reassured him that it wasn't the case. "I fear you've been thinking too much Varian. I honestly don't care that you go, if anything I'm quite excited to have the night to myself."

She tapped the book she'd picked up."Val introduced me to 'The Fae King' last night and I swear I haven't been able to put it down."

Varian rolled his eyes, remembering what Val had said about needing some time to herself before he barged in there. "Great, another one obsessed with faerie tales. As if one wasn't enough."

Tiffin childishly stuck her tongue out at him, taking her adornments off."Just because you don't enjoy them Varian doesn't mean other people can't."

Varian waved a hand of instant dismissal. "I never understood how someone can sit still that long and read about things that don't exist, it sounds like the most boring activity in the world to me."

Tiffin tutted, not that shocked by the king's stance. "Varian, it provides a distraction from the problems of life, surely that's a little bit tempting?"

Varian shook his head, recollecting that he had the same argument with Val more times than he would care to count. "No, distractions like that are absolutely pointless, and you'll never see me indulging in it as long as I live."

Tiffin put her hands on her hips. "Alright, so we have a child and they ask you to read them a story at bedtime, will you refuse them?"

Varian narrowed his eyes. "That's different and you know it. Adults that use the same distractions as children for themselves are the ones I will never get on board with."

Tiffin was trying so hard not to laugh at how passionate he was getting about this."And yet you choose to be with the biggest child we know."

Now Varian was chuckling. "Yes well, It's adorable when she does it, and she's learned not to even try and get me on the same page as her about mythical nonsense anymore, so I let her get on with it."

Tiffin's face turned passive. "It's not healthy to be serious all the time Varian. We're all entitled to a bit of fantasy."

Varian splashed his face and ran both hands down it. "Maybe I'm just incapable of it. All my life I've known duty, practicality, and regimentation…maybe it hindered exactly what I believed in, I don't know. But I'm perfectly happy the way I am, so stop fretting."

Tiffin didn't look convinced. "Are you though? Varian you haven't been sleeping, Val told me."

Varian huffed, pouring himself an ale. "I've been sleeping just fine."

Tiffin knew he was lying since he said it through gritted teeth. "So you haven't been having night terrors?"

Varian's hand tightened on the handle of the jug. "That's none of your business."

Tiffin carefully put a hand on his arm, remembering what Val had told her about approaching an angry Varian as one would a growling dog. "I just want to help."

Varian huffed, slamming his empty chalice down. "I don't need help, so unless you're a sorceress and just haven't told me, leave me be."

Tiffin squeezed his arm. "You know you can talk to me, Varian. I won't discuss it with anyone."

Varian mustered up a pained smile. "I know that, and appreciate it, but honestly, I'll be alright."

He kissed her forehead, making his way towards the door."Sleep well Tiffin, I'll see you at breakfast."

She knew there was no point trying to continue their conversation, he'd clearly decided it was ending there and then. "Same to you Varian. At least talk to Val about it?"

Varian took a deep breath, finally opening it. "I'll think about it, does that satisfy?"

She nodded, smiling at him. "It does. Goodnight Varian."

A jovial singing from the washroom told Varian where Val was immediately, and he couldn't help closing the door quietly so it didn't stop it, merely enjoying the sound as he crept towards the doorframe.

"And throughout the land, the people sang, their joyous cries did ring. From that day on, that lovely song, of the maiden and her king."

It warmed his heart to see her happy again after what they'd gone through in the past month. With too many changes and the number of upheavals had threatened to tear them asunder despite all of their efforts to stay united, it had been a troubling thought for the King. So to find her singing, smiling, and looking at her old self again was refreshingly uplifting.

"Well, if that's not a relevant little ditty, I don't know what is."

Her smile turned into a grin and she propped her elbows on the side of the bath that was nearest to him, beckoning him over."And since when have you been into spying on me while I bathe?"

Varian kissed her, passing her the towel she gestured to and giving her a hand stepping out. "Don't treat me like a teenage boy Val, I don't 'spy', I merely observe."

Val's laugh broke his growing melancholy and she rubbed at her hair, thanking him when he offered to dry her back, patting gently as she leant on the table the towels were folded on.

"I had fun tonight."

Varian smiled, glad to hear it. "Good, I'll admit I was worried you wouldn't. I know balls aren't the most fun activity ever."

Val wrapped the linen around her since it was rather cold tonight, jerking her head towards the door and telling him that she was going to her main chamber."Don't fret so much, I enjoyed myself and it was all down to you."

Varian sat on the end of her bed, holding on as she occupied his lap. "Oh? And what exactly did I do?"

Val brushed his hair back, still smiling. "You finally convinced me not to worry about those stiffs. I got to dance with you tonight and not panic that anyone was looking, or that they were whispering about me."

Varian kissed the bottom of her jaw, pressing harder on her neck."You don't know how damn proud I am to hear that Sweetheart."

His lips came back wet after pecking her chest, which only made her laugh more since he couldn't resist nipping her thumb as it wiped them. "But that doesn't mean we can flaunt everything in front of everyone Varian."

Varian kissed the inside of her forearm, becoming utterly distracted."Of course not, I won't put you in the spotlight unless you want me to,love."

She merely laughed again. "Although I can't say anything since you're spending your first night as king with me."

Varian's eyebrow rose as he carried on kissing droplets from her shoulders."I can leave if you want, just say the word."

He playfully hissed at her swat, flopping back and holding his arm as if in great pain. "Assault on the king! Who would've thought it from you Val! OW!"

He carried on simply because it was making her laugh. If acting childish achieved the sound that made him happiest, he would be glad to potentially embarrass himself.

"Oh shut up Varian that was barely a flick!"

He opened one eye, still clutching the limb in question. "No, that's it, I see no other way to come back from this except amputation. Look what you've done you vicious monster!"

He was trying to ignore how she straddled him but it was becoming increasingly difficult.

"Varian, stop being such a big baby." She tweaked his nose, putting a hand on his chest to steady herself. "You're a terrible actor."

Varian ran both palms up her thighs since the moment of jest had passed, thankful for his core strength so he didn't need them as he sat up with her."Then it's a good thing I have no desire to be one."

Val's amused grin faded for merely a second to peck his smoothed cheek (He always preferred a small amount of stubble to the clean-shaven look, but Wyll had insisted he look presentable for today) but came back when she pulled away.

"Aw, and here's me thinking we could make some money from it."

Even though the skin was marred his fingertips tracing her back still felt amazing.

"You looked so beautiful today Sweetheart."

She, of course, shook her head, just as he expected her to. "I looked plain, which suits me fine."

Varian held her closer, closing his eyes and drinking in the smell of her perfume like it was actively giving him strength."There's nothing plain about you Val."

Her retort was cut short by the small knock on the door and she hopped from his lap. "Expecting anyone?"

Val nodded, putting her robe on and opening it to Nan, who handed her a tray with two steaming mugs on it.

"We didn't have any mint, so I just put some more cream on it."

Val thanked her, using her elbow to close the door and skipping over to the table, handing Varian a hot chocolate, and even though he wasn't a huge fan of the beverage he took a long sip, sitting by the fire and letting her shuffle back between his legs."Any idea what you're going to say tomorrow?"

Varian huffed, wiping cream from his top lip. "Not in the slightest. Lothar has agreed to attend, but I think that will just cause more harm than good."

Val craned her neck back to look up at him. "He's a military veteran Varian, if anything it might make this more solid in terms of arguing the case for the Alliance."

Varian kissed the crown of her head, wrinkling his nose when her hair tickled it. "I know that, but they're kings Val, they won't listen to a soldier, they'll be looking to me."

She drummed his knee, still looking optimistic. "You'll be fine. They all know the Horde is a threat, it won't take much convincing."

Varian sent delicate kisses down her neck, taking her mug away and putting it on the table next to them. "Can we not talk about this anymore? It's all I've been thinking about today."

Val leant her head back, nipping his earlobe. "And what would you rather talk about?"

He was already untying her robe, pulling it down and kissing her shoulders. "Talking doesn't interest me right now."

She turned around, climbing onto his lap and sighing when his fingers gripped her backside. "I'd love to know what does then…"

It didn't take much for him to flip them, pulling his shirt over his head and already yanking his breeches to his knees."I'll be honest, I was considering snatching you away earlier and bringing you up here."

Val chuckled, running the tips of her nails along the lines on his abdomen, making him growl involuntarily. "Can we at least get into bed before you lose it? I'm not getting rug burns just so you can have me, Varian."

She knew he was going to lift her, but that didn't stop her squeak when it happened. Instinctively she wrapped her legs around him, inadvertently rubbing and making him snarl with impatience.

"How the hells do you do this to me woman?"

Val kissed him before he finished, tangling her fingers in his hair and thoroughly enjoying the groans it drew from his throat.

Before she knew what was happening her back slammed against the stone wall, with an instant apology tumbling from Varian's mouth, but in all honesty, Val didn't care about it right now, she was far too occupied kissing the broad shoulders of the man she would happily admit she was madly in love with, whether he be prince or king, it didn't matter to her in the slightest.

"Are you sure you're alright Sweetheart?"

She nodded, beginning to get as flustered as he was. She was impressed that his speech was as cognitive as it was right now since it seemed all the blood had flooded to his shaft, which was starting to twitch with anticipation and looked by all accounts rather painful.

"I'm fine, honestly. Keep going."

His strength was something to admire since it meant he did not need to lean against the wall when he kissed the underside of her breast, sucking on her like his life depended on it. She appreciated him easing her into it, but it was far past that point right now. "Varian please…"

His chuckle made her regret even saying it. "Eager, are we?"

Val opened her closed eyes and tried to muster a smile through her hisses and pants. "You've looked bloody delicious all day, you can't tease in the slightest."

Varian did exactly that, swiping two long fingers along her folds, licking them off after and looking impressed. "You weren't joking, it's been a while since you've been that excited," Val answered with an impish smirk, lazily running a hand down her breast and watching his eyes never leave her hand.

"That's just because we haven't made love that much since we got back together. I'm sure you'll be seeing it a lot more."

Varian jolted her so she sat higher against the wall and pressed against her, realising that this might be the last private moment they got for a while.

"Do you still want me, Sweetheart?"

Val could feel herself tightening more with every brush against her. "Y-yes, yes my love. I'll always want you."

She knew it was soppy, but he understood that she meant it every time she said it and sheathed himself inside her quickly enough to take her breath away.

His thrusts started slow like he was merely enjoying how tight she was, how she felt like she was made for him, it was all intoxicating to Varian and his fingers dug into her thighs hard enough to push Val over the edge instantly, with wave after wave of invigorating climax clenching around him, making it a personal mission of his own not to join her so quickly considering they'd only just started.

She had finished far too easily for his liking, and a wide smirk covered his face as he figured out whatmust have taken place.

"You started yourself off in the bath, didn't you?" She took a gulp of air and
choked out one last moan before answering, linking her fingers on the back of his neck.

"I might have…"

It only made his hips move faster. "Wanted me that much, did you?" She cursed him, tightening her legs.

"I bet you'd love it if I said yes, wouldn't you?" Her neck stung with his bite, but he didn't relent on his grip; he knew this was the best way to make her thighs slick. Since they had first started making love he'd realised that she was quite the little dark horse, with one of her biggest enjoyments coming from biting whatever patch of skin he could find, whether it be her neck, her breast, her thigh, she didn't care as long as it involved his teeth.

Varian was only too happy to oblige no matter what chides he'd receive from her the next day for leaving too obvious a mark, so he carried on as if his life depended on it, careful not to break her skin but still leaving a red ring where his mouth had been once he pulled away with a rather wanton sounding 'pop'.

He could feel himself tightening in his own way, meaning this was going to end sooner rather than his preferred later, but he didn't care.

Val was enjoying herself, so he had no qualms of lifting her from the wall and stumbling over to the bed, quelling her protests with kisses while he let go of her legs and put her down.

Before she could even question him, he had already bent her over, making her grateful that he couldn't see just how giddy she was getting, chewing her bottom lip in anticipation and already scrunching the furs underneath her chest.

His fingers occupied her folds and he pushed himself in with incredible ease now she'd climaxed, making her belly contract and her hips buck already. Her breast looked tiny when it was cupped by his large hand, with his other palm flat on the small of her back as he slammed himself into her, grunting like a wild animal with one breath and groaning with the other.

He felt himself begin to swell and cursed the world, disconnecting them despite her whines and letting one last satisfied groan fill the silence as he finished, managing to catch most of it and quickly leaving her to wash his hand, joining her in bed since she had taken that brief moment to climb in before the warmth their lovemaking had brought wore off. Soon enough she was just where he wanted her, lying on his chest with a small, sleepy smile on her face.

"I think we need to attend balls more often."

Varian chuckled, tracing little shapes on her back with one arm behind his head. "Or we could just have our own in here every night. That way I don't have to share you."

Val looked up at him, knowing exactly why he'd said it. "I can still come here some nights Varian, I'm not confined to Brill. I should be getting my own horse, so I'll be coming frequently."

He sighed, staring in front of him. "I'm just…no, it's ridiculous."

Val squeezed him, seeing that something was bothering him. "Tell me."

Her voice was gentle enough to make him want to discuss it, and for a good moment he managed to not open his mouth, but eventually ran a hand down his face. "I'm just not looking forward to sleeping alone, that's all. It's childish, I know."

Val sat up, cupping his cheek."Varian…you'll be just fine without me. I'll have leave at some point and we can spend the whole of it in bed if you want."

He appreciated her sincerity but still felt a fool for it. "I'm a grown man Val, I shouldn't be scared of going to sleep."

Val stroked his cheek with her thumb. "It's nothing to be ashamed of though Varian. I would suspect you're not the only one nowadays that can't sleep."

Varian's smile held no mirth."It's not the actual sleeping that worries me, it's staying that way."

She snuggled back down, pulling on his arms until he gave in and lay down with her. "Well for tonight I'm still here, so try and get some sleep. If you wake up, I can join you and all will be right with the world."

Varian chuckled despite his mood. "You make it sound so simple."

Her little fingers were in his hair, and he couldn't help but worry about the fact that she was essentially going to war without him soon when it had always been the other way around.

That thought in turn made him feel incredibly guilty since he finally realised how she had felt all those times it had been him leaving her, It was a truly horrible feeling and he didn't like it one bit.

"Not everything has to be complicated Varian."

His face scrunched despite how nice her strokes on his head felt. "Really? That all it seems to be nowadays."

He opened his eyes and clenched his jaw. "Even loving you used to be simple."

She poked the tip of his nose. "We're still here though."

He knew that, and wouldn't waste this second chance they'd been given."I know Sweetheart, and I don't plan on letting you go anytime soon. They'd have to pry you from my cold dead hands."

Val kissed his forehead, still playing with his hair. "If your hands were dead and cold Varian, mine wouldn't be far behind them and you know that."

He did and wasn't sure whether he liked what she was implying or not. He held her closer, burying his nose in her hair.

"I love you."

Val wriggled under the furs once he pulled them up, watching him close his own eyes before she did. "I love you too."

Her gentle singing lulled him to sleep no matter how much he dreaded it, keeping his grip on her tight enough to reassure himself she was still there.

"And throughout the land, the people sang, their joyous cries did ring. From that day on, that lovely song, of the maiden and her king."