[He is a little surprised by the display of affection, but he also can't help but smile into it as he nuzzles in close. Who is he to deny whatever comforts she thinks she might need to help encourage him?

Granted... When was the last time he spoke of his parents? Or even really thought of them, as unfilial as that may sound.

So there's just a low hum as his eyes remain on the pendant for a little while longer.]

Strong...well, as strong as a man could be given our conditions.

[Another hum as he reflects while slowly speaking.]

While nothing noteworthy, the family does hail from a line of swordsmen, usually knights or soldiers that served other lords.

[He nods to the pendant.]

That's how we came to have a crest, though my father always said it was something his grandfather made on a whim so it's not even that aged.

But he, too, used to know the way of the sword before an injury left him unable. That's how he came to work in the stables and assist the knights of the old lord instead. Perhaps it was some measure of repayment, even if such repayment wasn't much. Still, he didn't let that destroy his pride.

[A wry grin.]

Might have gotten some of my own stubbornness and ethic from him.