The otherwise oblivious druid was pulled back to reality, coincidentally, by the tender grasp of Aelena’s hand. He was aware of the seconds it took for those strong, yet delicate fingers to wrap around his, the warm press of her palm against his, and the gentle nudge of her wrist up against his own.  He knew the pain piercing her heart right now, though he believed hers may be more grievous than his own, for so quickly she clung to him even after what had just happened at the inn in his room. He did what he wanted to do, and what she needed him to do; he pulled his hand away from hers, though only for a moment before replacing it with his other hand, draping her shoulders with his now, closer, free hand. He drew her close to him and held her.<br/><br/>He had seen so much death in his life, and had accepted it as natural. Perhaps that was one of his flaws: becoming accustomed to death; accepting death. Aelena, clearly, has not, even though she has lived nearly as long as he. He struggled to find words, to order his thoughts, to try to find something to comfort her. For several long, silent moments all he could do was stare at the burial markers.<br/><br/>“You know, Aelena, I’m glad it was you that I was to meet here today, on this assignment, and I am glad you are here with me now. Otherwise, I may not have had the strength to face this place on my own.” On cue the druid leaned in closer, gently rubbing the side of his head against hers.<br/><br/>He allowed them to stay for a few moments longer before straightening up. “Come, we’ve offered our respects to our brethren, probably longer than even they would have wanted.”<br/><br/>With a gentle tug, Iylldrraen drew Aelena away from their companions’ burial site, back down and out to the main road again. This time, however, he did not walk stoically or perplexed. He now knew that he did indeed love this Draenei. His admittance, unfortunately, created a sense of protective responsibility within the druid. He wrestled with this thought, though, forcing his logic to dominate his fear, to remind himself that she was, indeed, a full grown shaman, more than capable of facing any threat this land could pit against her.<br/><br/>Thankfully the druid did not have to struggle with this thought for long, already approaching Saber Rock. He slowed his pace with Aelena, for, though Winter Sabers were intelligent, they were still beasts as well, and territorial. Glancing around, he caught the swift movement of a lone figure descending the Rock. Iylldrraen stood there with Aelena, awaiting the figure’s arrival.<div class="messageTextEndMarker"> </div>