A king and a queen

"All hail to King Loras Dardarian and Queen Astrid Dardarian!" The guard announces them solemnly as they step through the gold doors. The banquet room is filled with the noble lords and ladies of the kingdom, diplomats from beyond the seas and high members of the land councils. They all bow in front of the royal couple as they slowly make their way to the other side of the room, where the thrones await.

Astrid looks at Loras, who is holding her hand. So many years passed, so many troubles they overcame and with every second that they live she feels that not a thousand lives would be enough next to him. Loras notices her melancholic glance and smiles.

"This is not the day for unpleasant feelings, my little one! This is a day of celebration." He whispers, the feeling of his breath on her neck, still giving her shivers of pleasure after so many years.

"I am old, Loras. When will you stop calling me little one?" She laughs.

"Do you want me to find you another nickname in the next life?"

A