"Looking after you is my duty."

Yet another day, yet another moment of Ao'nung trying to convince you to have at least a little self preservation. As promised mates, and him as the future Olo'eykte, he had a duty to protect all of the Metkayina people. Including his future Tsahik.

"Is that the only reason you do it?" You'd asked.

"Isn't that reason enough?" He quipped back, following you into the marui pod belonging to the Tsahik- currently his mother. He watched as you set down the bowl of flowers Ronal had asked for, for when she returned. And then you crept closer, with that stupidly smug grin.

"If that's the only reason there is." You said, trailing a finger up his arm and then neck. He smirked but tried to hide it.

"Your majesty." He said, mild amusement lacing his tone.

"Yes?"

"I'm...not ticklish." He chuckled softly.