[The return of that familiar cockiness causes a ghost of a smile to cross Regis' face, but the smile comes no where near lifting the tiredness in his eyes.]

You know it's not that easy. Not with who I am nor with who you are. There are too many who would jump on the chance to have you removed from your position or worse.

[Not to mention he can immediately think of five councilmen would would use any attempt to intercede on Nyx's behalf to weaken Regis' own standing. Politicians show mercy for no one. King or knight. Lover or beloved.

It's the politics of the situation he understands. He's played the game his whole life. This? This he doesn't understand. It's nothing like the relationship he'd had with Aulea. Their love had been born of lifelong friendship, of familiarity, and time spent in each other's company. While it's true that Nyx has been part of the Glaive for a long time now, they have hardly had time to come to know each other. They pass more often than not in silent understanding. Power given; life entrusted.

In the wake of the second gentle kiss, Regis forces himself to stop trying to puzzle the mystery out on his own, and instead takes the path of least resistance--asking the man kneeling before him.]

Your heart could choose any it wished to love.

[He rests his hand gently on the one Nyx is using to message his knee, halting the motion.]

Why would it choose me when you more than most know the price the Crystal demands of me?