"Cautious, moreso than clever," he admits. "After how Ajax's energy shifted once he was given his signal by Thia, and his talk of storms... it may be wise to use an extra layer of protection when we are able."

He does not fight her as she steals that kiss, allowing her lips to linger on his mouth as he works the pins out of her chiton.

"And with your wards so strong, I feel much more secure in allowing my focus to center on my true desire...my wife." Emphasis on my.