The knight stirred, greeting her with cool blue eyes when he regained consciousness. He was relieved, and it was evident in his expression but palpable as well. The sense of ease that he experienced as a result of surviving the bonding ritual consumed her, making it difficult to distinguish her own feelings from his. It was such a departure from the mild disdain she harbored for the warrior that its origin was no real mystery. The intricate process that connected them already allowed them to perceive the emotions of one another. No amount of distance would separate them in that regard. It was one of many reasons the fair-haired mage felt such resentment. Alaria pushed herself to her feet as the side door swung open. Through the threshold two able-bodied clergymen appeared, swiftly moving to the warrior's side to aid him in standing on his own two feet. Steady on his feet, the three priests left them, allowing them a moment to have a proper introduction before the next ritual would begin. After all, it was not uncommon for a bonded pair to be complete and utter strangers to one another. The logic in the tradition escaped her, but she recognized that it was not her place to dispute matters of the monarch and the church, especially when parties to the system were near.<br/><br/>Alaria clasped her hands in front of her and bowed, bending at the hips to lower her head. The long braid that her silvery blonde hair had been woven into fell over her shoulder, and the musical rustle of the gleaming trinkets on her circlet chimed. "Lord Jacominus, my name is Alaria Everard. Please accept my humble vow of devotion as your Eternal Bond, my promise to serve and protect you as an extension of our Royal Army." It was a formal pledge, and not an empty one by any means. Alaria meant every word and had every intention of protecting him to the best of her ability. It was her duty, and nothing more. She had no grand expectations for their relationship, and truth be told she was content to have their interactions be limited to that of training and battle. While many others carefully nurtured their bonds, with friendship and meaningful, shared experiences to build trust and loyalty, she desired to-- at the very least-- maintain some semblance of individuality since they were one in so many ways. She rose to meet his gaze, her dark eyes absent of enthusiasm. Her lovely visage remained unmoved, an indication that she was not thrilled about their circumstances-- or at least her own.<br/><br/>"We must speak of arrangements." She announced, descending the platform of the dais. "It is customary for the a mage to remain close to their warrior after bonding. How close is dependent upon your preference. My residence is located in Madrigal, not far from Lancaster or the Capital." Lancaster was the school in which mages practiced the skills of their craft, a place of higher learning and development. The prestigious institution produced some of the most successful and talented mages in the kingdom, Alaria included. "Our bond is fresh, and we will experience certain side effects as a result until our bodies become accustomed to be so attuned to one another. If it is your wish, I can stay with you, where ever it is that you reside, until we are in sync. My home is always open to you, should you desire to stay with me." She mentioned as she led the way out of the church, traveling through the double doors and traversing the grand space alongside Tedric. "There is also the matter of the festival. If you will be attending, I must accompany you and wear the colors of your family. Of course, should you not be in attendance, nor will I." A united front was important as the citizens of the kingdom had somewhat skewed perceptions on what a healthy pairing was to be, often resorting to gossip should bonded mages and warriors-- particularly ones comprised of nobles-- appear to be at odds.<br/><br/>The doors of the church opened, revealing the bustling city streets of Balfour. The civilians were abuzz with excitement, preparing for the extravagant festivities that would take place when the sun was setting on the horizon. On the gentle breeze was a fragrant scent, floral and sweet as shops and carts adorned their businesses in vibrant, seasonal blooms. About the premises there were more mages and knights, gathering to begin their own ceremonies. Alaria looked over her shoulder briefly, noting all the anxious expressions and hopeful eyes. “So, what will you have me do?”