The going away party was in full swing when Tine began to yawn.

“Are you sleepy?” Bra-Neche asked him after the third or fourth yawn.

“A little, I think our ride this afternoon tired me out.”

“Would you care to accompany me to my room?”

“Is that allowed?”

“It is.”

Tine nodded.  No one tried to stop them as they left the party and headed up the stairs all the way to the top floor.  As they passed the rune-carved door, Tine decided he had to ask, “Why are students not permitted up here?”

“These are the instructor’s private quarters, and where visiting Imperials and their Chosen sleep.”

“But they make it seem like such a big deal…”

“It is a big deal for some students and for some instructors, and for all Imperials,” Bra-Neche led Tine to his room and closed the door behind them. 

 

 

Tine drifted to wakefulness snuggled against Bra-Neche. 

“I have to leave today,” Bra-Neche said to him when he was awake enough to comprehend. “I am expected to journey with the others to Saradaun.”

“I know.”

“You have to stay here.”

“I don’t want to stay here.”

Bra-Neche sighed and cuddled Tine close, “I know, and I don’t want to leave you behind.”

“Then why must you?”

“My parents are expecting me home.  They are not expecting you too.  I must explain things to them so they understand why I Chose you.  I will come for you, Tine, or send for you.  I will not let us be separated forever.”

Tine nodded, “Will you miss me?”

“I can’t miss you, you are with me always,” Bra-Neche kissed Tine’s forehead.

Tine flipped his body around, mounted Bra-Neche, and nipped at his exposed flesh.  “Maybe I can make you miss me?”

Bra-Neche laughed and proceeded to allowed Tine to try.