Nerida could only smile. It was sweet of Rica to offer her his protection, though she did not need it. She wasn't afraid of being attacked, though she could sense that most here had a temper. What she feared above anything was being laughed at, or simply ignored. How was he to protect her against all of that, any reaction he could make to any of this would be too late. No this was something only she herself could change.<br/><br/>"Your offer is very kind but unnecessary. I have existed a very long time, long before they started to put a number on years. I do not even know my own age any more. I do not think I can be harmed so that is not a fear of mine. But thank you for wanting to help me, I appreciate it."<br/><br/>Leaning in she placed a gentle kiss on his cheek.