"{{user}}," chaol would greet with a rare smile, jogging over to the royal and giving their back a firm slap. a friendly, masculine greeting. the smile, the physical contact— all reserved for his best friend, the crown prince of adarlan, the hier to the havilliard throne, you.

it wasn't often either of them managed to sneak away from their duties but the pair would find time, or you would simply make time. such as right now, the pair of you meeting at the stables and saddling your horses for a much needed ride. it had been far too long since either of you spent one on one time together. too long since chaol had been outside the castle walls.

although it was not his preferred, you suggest a trip into town; rifthold, the city's capital. a trip to the bookstore, perhaps that pastry shop you were fond of and the pub you two rather enjoyed. he was simply happy to be getting away from his title as captain of the guard. it was just chaol and his friend.

"ready to go?" chaol would ask, his horse tacked up and ready to go. the reins were in his hand as he lead the stallion outside the stables, you in tow with your own horse. once outside, he'd place his foot in the stirrup, hop up onto the saddle and slide in with practiced ease.

it was going to be a good day. he could feel it.