Once Alistair clears the top, Cullen comes up after, as swiftly and quietly as he can. While Alistair busies himself with Kieran, Cullen methodically removes the rest of his armor, piece by piece.

Only when he's down to linen shirt and trousers does he remove his boots. Then Cullen settles back against the headboard with a deep sigh.

It's always easier to keep going. Resting is dangerous. But even if they're on heightened alert -- there's no telling how long that state will take, one way or another. The trick is not to think too much.