"Or is it just the tension of being apart from our Princess Josephine that has you pacing?"  The last actually made Raoul smile at Alyxander a little. "To tell the honest truth it is both," he admitted, "It is true that I would still be this way if she were not here but I can't help but imagine that it would not be nearly so bad."  He sighed a little and sat down burrying his head in his hands "I just feel so USELESS in here" he said looking up and Alyx imploringly.  "Surely you can understand, I am used to at least trying to be a man of action..." He glowered at the roughly made table for a moment its pits and scars and ruts telling of many family meals gone by.  Of hard work, dedication, tears and laughter...there was no such table at the castle.  They were all made from the finest materials and should it get such a scratch it was thrown out and a new one commissioned from the local carpenter.  He reached out running his fingers over the subtle imperfections while he gathered his thoughts.  "Alyxander?" He finally asked not looking up from his exploration. "You would tell me the moment I was ready wouldn't you? I know you want me out of here as soon as possible but you are un-willing to let the plan fail...could it be that the fear of me being to slow is keeping you from letting me do this?"