[He considered for a long moment, though the explanation needed limited thought. He could understand the the sentiment; taking on a title that others deemed repulsive, wrapping oneself in that identity so that it became armour rather than weakness. It seemed they both readily came to a point in their lives where the embraced the choice that would set them free to choose their own paths towards the golden light that Richard was so fond of seeking as a salvation.

In order to thrive, they had to kill the weakness inside of themselves, to make that decision to keep fighting no matter the cost. And this man, this Henry who had once been King, had given that life-altering choice that he had once faced with him. Die under the weight, or fight for something worth believing, worth striving for.]

And you embraced what he called you on his corpse. Those of us who wish to be more have to step beyond the titles laid over us to become something more.

[He met Richard's gaze evenly, and the corner of his lips twitched at the truthful words. A war of words and ambition was as dangerous as a war of ones fists or weapons.] We all wage our own wars for our own ambition and perhaps... [He reached out and ran the back of his knuckles against Richard's smooth cheek.] to prove them all that those titles bestowed on us like a curse are little more than motivation to put a boot on their throats. The fear of death should never stop us from accomplishing what we need to.