[ You always find yourself in great danger, she thinks to herself. It's a trait true of all of them, as expected as the sun rising to shine another day. Peace is a fleeting, fleeing thing — just like the security of surviving to another day, or the foolish hope that they may win this war yet. It only makes her want to seize it, only makes her want to live, free from the regret of walking away from this and leaving herself to wonder what if?

If any of them are going to become martyrs, they may as well throw caution to the wind. Alina's soft eyes spark, shining with an amused tease. ]

Wasn't that the deal we made last night?

[ Though it's a harmless joke, she doesn't want to dwell on bargains and deals, on considerations and proposals. Not now, not enclosed in this private bubble, not yet pierced by politics or war. She tilts her head like an animal leaning into touch, welcoming the graze of his fingers as they tickle across her skin, and letting her eyes flutter closed. Despite the hammering beat of her heart, pounding against her chest like a caged bird, the careful stroke of his hands is a soothing balm against her nerves. ]

You can, if you're feeling brave. [ The corner of her mouth twitches upward. ] Just don't knock me onto the floor at all, or you'll absolutely be in grave danger.