Marry out of love

"It's unusual to see Brother Alaric here at this hour," Magnus remarked as he entered the private lounge, a secluded space reserved exclusively for the four of them.

"I'm not in the mood to talk," Alaric replied in a low voice, his eyes shadowed with fatigue. He barely lifted his head to acknowledge Magnus's presence. "And why are you even awake at this hour? Shouldn't you be with Alora?" His gaze finally met Magnus's, a hint of irritation flickering in his eyes.

"I was looking into something," Magnus responded as his curiosity piqued. He crossed the room and settled into the armchair opposite Alaric, the leather creaking under his weight.

"But what about you, Brother Alaric? You never stay up late. What's keeping you from your rest?" His had a genuine interest to know, his eyes searching Alaric's for answers.