Hallows Eve

‘Twas a peaceful night. The first, he hoped, of many to come. Bartimeas was weary of war, his empire had seen too much of it in its short life so far, and he was glad to be home for once for his daughter’s name day.
“My love?” Bartimeas smiled at the sound of Panthera’s voice, it was the only thing that calmed him these days.
“Hmm?” He turned towards her and wrapped her lithe form in his arms, “Yes?” He smiled.
“What has you so worried?” she looked up at his quizzically, the purple-blue of her eyes inviting him to peace.
“Memories, love. Just memories.”
“And?” She pouted a little, trying to drag more out of him.
“Fine,” he sighed, she knew he couldn’t resist her pout. “Flamos-“
“This again?” Panthera frowned at him.
“Yes. He’s too old for her by far.”
“He is much closer to her in age than he is to any of us, even Sislont.”
“But-“
“But what? She is absolutely infatuated with him, and only we love her more than him.”
“Yes, but she was a mere infant when he came of age to manhood.”
“And you were a man before I was born, forget when he was born.” She raised an eyebrow at him, crossing her arms between them.
“Times are different now…” He trailed off at the look she was giving him.
“No they’re not. You just worry because she is your daughter. Our races age differently my love, Alistine is the only Marsacoolian after you, and Flamos is closer to her age than you are to mine.”
“I still don’t like it.” He shrugged and sighed, which was as close to admitting Panthera was right as he ever got. “You should get some rest my love, tomorrow’s festivities-“
“Will be fun and require no effort from us.” She wrapped her arms around his neck, loosening the cloak from his shoulders and letting it pile on the ground, “Dance with me, we haven’t danced in forever.”
“I’m no better than I was.” Bartimeas protested as he placed his hands upon her hips, “you know I can’t dance.”
“I know,” she giggled, “you get embarrassed and you pout and it’s cute. For someone who fights like you do, you are the worst dancer.” She kissed him playfully, “but I wouldn’t have it any other way.” At that, she rested her head on his shoulder as they swayed to a tune heard only by them.