Jezin nodded at Walden's comment. He caught a familiar face out of the corner of his eye. He noticed Payton sitting at a nearby table. "If you'll excuse me, I must beg my leave for a moment." He looked towards Sophia and nodded, a silent affirmation that he would be back by her side in an instant if the need arose. He stood up, carrying his goblet with him, and took a seat across from the now unarmored woman. He could tell my looking at her that she had been drinking a fair amount, but after the events of the night he could hardly blame her. After taking a sip of wine he spoke up. "Sorry for leaving you earlier, but duty called. It seems you made it back in one piece though." He gave the woman a slight smile, unsure of how she would react.

Sophia looked back and forth between Gareth and Sir Walden, surprised by the large man's offer. The half-elf seemed rather eager to accept the offer. The princess smiled, taking another sip of wine. Sir Walden seemed like a kind man, and she was sure Gareth would enjoy serving as a squire for him. She gave him a congratulatory pat on the back. She could feel the wine finally starting to take effect. She was glad the drink was alleviating her stress at last. Sir Walden congratulated Gareth. He belched loudly, apologizing to the princess. Sophia smirked. "Oh no, Sir Walden, I take no offense." She laughed softly.