[It can't be helped. Childe's expression falls again, inwardly sighing at Aether's reaction. He's a perceptive person, and he can tell that the prince is so torn between his own personal feelings and his sense of duty to his position, so much so that he would sacrifice his own happiness for it. Childe, on the other hand, was not one to put duty over the thrill of battle, or whatever else. If his duty lined up with his personal goals, then so be it. It just so happens his duty was to protect the one he truly cared for...but he wished so badly that the other would see that too.

But as it seems, Prince Aether would rather turn his head away from the truth of the matter to look in a direction that he shouldn't have to walk towards, in Childe's opinion.]

Are you so sure? But, if you say so, Your Highness.

[His response is aloof, if one didn't know him any better. But there was a hint of pain to it, an undertone easily missed if one wasn't listening closely enough. The knight turns, sighing quietly once he's able to safely hide his face from the dejected look that spreads across his features. He doesn't want to leave, but...maybe he's already said too much, speaking his mind like that.]

Perhaps I should retire to my own chambers now. It feels as if I've overstayed my welcome here, so I thank you for your concern for my well being, as usual. I apologize for placing the burden of my wounds on you.