[ Propriety and old habit is what brought him to his feet. It is what a decent gentleman does in the presence of a lady, rising for her. Given the strong feelings he has for this particular lady? He can find the right amount of energy to give her such treatment. But he doesn't argue when she insists that he takes a seat, as he is happy to sit beside her. ]

[ Cullen sighs. ]

I will rest plenty when this is all over. We still have much to do yet.

[ But he matches her smile, shifting his gaze to meet with hers. ]

There is much to be thankful for in how we have succeeded, yes. Thank the Maker this did not play out as disastrous as it could have.

[ It is then that his smile fades, and he reaches out to her. Cullen gives Neria a gentle touch to her arm, where that look of concern from earlier comes creeping back. ]

I know I have asked many times already... But are you alright?