But if we manage those rarest of things, both to win and to survive, then I would have you know that to me at least, this, us, is for always. Not just now, or while this war lasts, but for as long as I draw breath.” She had held his gaze throughout every word. “You are precious to me,” she finished, her courage fading at the last, her eyes dropping away. A silence settled on them. The chattering of the stream, the sounds of Veradis’ warband making ready for their expedition, all faded around her. Maquin moved, suddenly close to her, a handspan between them, and her heart was racing. He leaned
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