[it's dangerous, treading this particular thought process, to give Dohalim a moment to even think about stepping down from his position. on the one hand, it really is human nature to want to separate himself from something that, for the most part, had done nothing but torment him in silence, but there are so many reasons as to why he just... can't]

...You should not indulge me into thinking about stepping down as lord. You and I both know that it simply is not feasible.

[with how close an eye Lenegis and the entire empire are probably keeping on Dahna and the crown contest, it's a topic that shouldn't be talked about out loud, even if they're both alone. he just has has to endure for a little bit longer, then he can step down peacefully. it's all he can hope for; he doubts that, even if the Dahnans are more motivated to work, he'd be a shoe-in for the sovereignty.

shifting around, Dohalim tilts his head down to rest his forehead against Gepard's shoulder, just wanting to be a little closer. all caution is thrown to the wind now; he doesn't care if the blond really does want to do anything to him. if he does... then at least he can have this moment of bliss. and really, if Gepard really did want to kill him, then would it be so bad...?]

...We should get back to the city soon, before the guards start to fret.