[ Does... does she not know him? It pierces his heart like the keenest blade to be looked upon by the woman who holds his heart in her hands and not see his love reflected therein, but perhaps this is what he deserves--after all, had he not broken the final promise he'd ever made to her? He swore that he would return; how much more heartbroken must she have been then than he is now? If this is a punishment, it is well-earned, and he will accept it without complaint as long as he might serve her.

Standing at her behest, he assumes a parade rest, hands folded behind his back, and yet as formal a his stance might be, he cannot erase the tenderness from his eyes when he looks down at her. ]

There is naught to report, your Highness. The realm is secure. [ He hesitates for a moment, fishing for something to say and mercifully landing on an idea rather expediently. ] I... have been assigned as your new personal guard. Command me as you see fit--there is no task too daunting or too trivial; if it is my lady's will, I will see it accomplished.

[ Stepping into the gazebo, Clive steps in closer than would normally be considered appropriate, kneeling once again and reaching for her hand, if she'll allow him to take it. Tenderly, so tenderly, he kisses the backs of her fingers and bows to touch them to his forehead as a sign of his devotion. ]

I am yours to command.