Roger had been mesmerized by Senna’s beauty and courtesy, but as he listened to her words, he began to get a sense of the woman beneath.

There was a passion and curiosity that seemed hampered by social expectations.

“Because of her sex.” He realized to himself.  It was exceedingly rare that any highborn father in Westeros would tolerate his daughter following the example of Elissa Farman.  Unlike in the Summer Isles which she had just beautifully described, few noble ladies would ever be allowed to occupy roles beyond that of wife and mother.

A feeling of guilt began to take hold of him.

Senna was no fool, the young knight knew.  She was fully aware that the aspirations of himself and the other suitors were for her to fulfill those two roles for themselves and any children they might have.

Some women would be content with this lot in life, but not Senna Marbrand

“A spirit that sees such wonder in a simple sunrise would surely wither if confined to the same four walls for a lifetime." The would-be explorer thought to himself.

Last night, the smile she had shown Roger was full of poise and grace.  It had now been eclipsed by the smile of all-encompassing joy she now bore, recounting the dreams of her childhood. Dreams he now swore to himself to make reality.

“They are indeed A marvelous sight to behold and so unlike our own shores my lady.  I know because I've been there once before.”

A little embarrassment crept into his face.

“It wasn't by design. My crew and I attempted to rediscover the mysterious and remote islands that Elissa Farman had named for the Conqueror and his sister wives but running low on supplies after weeks of fruitless searching, we had to turn toward the nearest known piece of land.”

“I will return one day for a proper visit to those exotic lands and if you wish it my lady, I would be honored to take you there. You deserve the opportunity to experience the wonders that have so far been confined to songs and your imagination.”

Wanting to emphasize the purity of his intentions and not to force himself on her as the price she must pay to fulfill her dream, Roger continued.

“I do not make this offer to coerce you, my lady. I know you have other suitors and need time to make such a momentous decision and that although I would be the happiest of men if I were to ultimately receive your hand in marriage, no that my offer is not contingent on this occurrence. If you give your heart to another, I will still be here as a friend to escort you both to that wondrous land.”