[i][b][color=#a4161a]"He had you tied up to him so tight, he'd drag you down to the deep end with his ambition. For your own sake, darling, [i]get away[/i]."[/color][/b][/i]

Oh, she had heard similar words over and over. And the mounting exasperation she felt for how things were was all too often being underestimated by those who only know her from the outside. Like many others, she too longed for freedom, and she had tried to get one for herself once. But it eventually ended on her own undoing. She was not prepared for it. The world outside was full of uncertainty and peril, and admittedly it was his father's power and influence that granted her a safe and comfortable life 

[b][color=#a4161a]"Blood ties ain't everything, yeah? Duke Rosenving can probably attest to that."[/color][/b] Said Yvonne again, smiling proudly. Her story of being independent and standing up on her own feet could be very awe-inspiring, but as a Delving, Kirsten had been dazzled and disappointed by many stories and hope she now preferred to approach one with a healthy amount of pessimism. 

[b][color=#F6E1D3]"I will consider it,"[/color][/b]
 she said to Yvonne. [b][color=#F6E1D3]"But I need to do it at my own pace.[/color][/b]


Kirsten was baiting for small talk, but what she got was the story about the man's entire life. A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one. 

[b][color=#F6E1D3]"Well, Master Chonan, the Prince of a distant land. If you are saying you are recovering your muscle, then why stand there? You should come here and rest, I will lend you my lap for you to lay down. Better that way, don't you think?" [/color][/b] the maid enthusiastically showed a small woven basket and presented it like it was something to flex. [b][color=#F6E1D3]"And, I have bread. Made them this morning-- sort of, anyway, I hope you like [i]pirozhki[/i]!" [/color][/b]