synthneon | FF PSL | ❝ for those we can yet save. ❞

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FF PSL | ❝ for those we can yet save. ❞

AFTERGLOW

— hear, feel think. —

❄️ HEAVENSWARD

★ Ever Heavensward (3.0)
    — Ishgard Meetings, Part 2

★ As Goes Light, So Goes Darkness (3.1)
    — Unfleeting Emotions

★ The Gears of Change (3.2)
    — Heavy Hearts, Part 2

★ Revenge of the Horde (3.3)
    — Starlight Festival (Alkaid)
    — Starlight Festival (KP)

🔥 STORMBLOOD

★ IC Permission
★ IC Permission
★ IC Permission
★ IC Permission
★ IC Permission

BEYOND

CODE BY TESSISAMESS

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[ She can hear that tone in her sister's voice, and she reaches over to take hold of her free hand so she can give it a squeeze. ] Maybe one day, he'll finally have the chance to travel with you. [ She might not have said as much, but K'thisru's fairly certain that is what her sister wants more than anything. ] You know what, I think I would.

I hope it doesn't either. He insists that he will be there whenever we finally arrive, but I- Well, I still worry about him even though I don't know him all that well.

[ She sighs, knowing she really shouldn't worry so much about a veritable stranger, but she can't help it. ] I'm sure that he would do anything for his people, but I hope that anything doesn't include putting himself in harm's way.

Oh, I know she will. She might be exasperated, even a little annoyed, but she will absolutely understand. [ She tilts her head to one side, forgetting that doing certain actions with her eyes closed has the tendency to make her a little dizzy. She does step to the right, not because of his instruction, but because she's having a brief clumsy moment. ] You know that friends help each other out, right? I know that I don't know you well, but since this is our second time meeting, I think that I can call you a friend. And it sounds much better than 'acquaintance', don't you think?

[ If only she could reach out to him and take his hand, but alas... That will have to wait until they meet in person. ]

Well, that's good, because if we parted ways without a goodbye this time, I would be a little miffed. Not at you, just at whatever it is that keeps pulling you away.

[ And although she has very little to base this on, she's inclined to think it's not because of a lack of fortitude on his part. Something else is going on here, and it seems to her that he has plenty of fortitude. ] Is everything all right with the city?

[ Oh, he certainly sees no end to their friendship, not after so many years of them being each other's friend. But time has a mind of its own, and things that no one could predict can happen. But he knows better than to borrow trouble. ]

I know that you are right, but it is a matter of finding a moment to leave, even temporarily. I have no doubt that Ishgard's affairs will be well managed should I leave for such a visit; that is not what gives me pause. [ He is certain that there are those within the city upon whom he can rely to keep things running as smoothly as possible. Lucia is one, Count Edmont and Lord Artoirel are others... It seems as though his workload is not about to lighten anytime soon, and that is what concerns him. ] I would welcome the opportunity to travel alongside the Scions, but I do not see that opportunity presenting itself. [ And that is something that is causing more than one twinge of regret, even though it cannot be helped. ]

Good. I hope that you do that, should your paths cross.

[ When Estinien plainly addresses him, saying that he is being coy, Aymeric's eyebrows lift as he tries, mostly in vain, to stifle a wide smile. ] I suppose that I should have known better than to conceal anything from you, Estinien.

[ Still, he can't help but add in one more small tease. ] I will say that I do very much enjoy that position and the work that comes with it. [ He knows better than to tease Estinien too much, but sometimes, it is hard to resist. ]

Out with it? Very well. [ Now, he abandons the attempt to hide his smile, letting it grow as wide as it will. ] I am- Well, to put it simply, I am engaged. Betrothed, if you will.

Maybe.

[ She squeezes her sister's hand in return. Their situation is far from hopeless or without resolution. Outside forces will either need to be stopped or turned away from. Those forces neither of them can truly walk away from.

Regardless, she nods. When she writes her letter? She will be certain to wait for her sister to add to it. ]

We don't need to know someone very well to care for them. They are people who live on our star. [ She smiles. ] We will have to keep our eye out for him. I need to meet your mysterious stranger.

[ She moves to address the next statement when a familiar voice calls to them. Alkaid looks down over the edge to see Lyse waving to them. She sighs and gives a gentle nudge to K'thisru. ]

I'll follow your lead.

[ He pauses for a moment, thinking that over. From what he has heard and observed from others' accounts, Hydaelyn has always seemed kind to him, and not one who judges harshly or metes out wrath. ] There must be middle ground between how you feel and what the Scions ask of you. [ He may not desire to be named leader of any one company again, but there still remains a time and a place for stepping forward to help those who might need it. Even the Warrior of Light needs assistance, not that he would presume as much without verifying with her first. ] Perhaps they do not realize that is how you feel.

[ And again, he weighs his options here, because he could say what is on his mind or he could overstep and offend her. ] Knowing that it is ultimately your decision, if you would like, I could speak to them on your behalf. [ They might not be inclined to listen to him either, but he cannot help but feel as though someone within the company should know how she truly feels. ]

I must agree, however much I wish that it was not the case. [ He does often wonder how Y'shtola is faring after everything she has been through, and while Thancred is more than capable of handling himself, he also has no small amount of worry for him as well. ] No, I suppose that for the time being, it is not a good time to speak with either of them.

[ He falls silent for a moment or two as they walk along, and he is about to make some further comment about the notion of relocating to Ishgard, when he spots someone just a few paces ahead of them. ]

Alkaid, look there, just straight ahead. [ He would have missed it, if not for the piece of clothing that did not entirely match its surroundings. ] Could it be another survivor? [ He hopes that it is a survivor and not another casualty. ]

[ She smiles gently, deciding she must do her utmost not to place him in a situation that would cause regret of their relationship. Cultural differences are to be expected, and thus should be met in the middle. If she need be more reserved? She will be. ]

We have traveled the world and seen more of its people than most. Knowledge is something gained from it, although I'm not sure if you would call it wisdom. [ Her fingers go through his hair once more. ] I'm certain she'd love to have dinner with you. We never had the chance to find our initial one.

Once we've defeated Nidhogg and saved Estinien.

[ The hour has grown late, and all others have surely taken to their provided beds by now. Yugiri has also retired, and yet sleep is not coming easily to her. For an hour, and then another, she tossed and turned, trying to find a comfortable position, and when that failed, trying to will herself to sleep. Much and more hinges upon the events to come in the morning, and while she has full confidence in Lord Hien and the Warriors of Light, fate has a funny way of twisting and turning when one least expects it, and there is very little that anyone can do to prevent that.

After another handful of minutes of restlessness, she decides to abandon her fruitless attempts at sleep, and she leaves the designated sleeping area, heading out to where she knows a fire was once kindled. She can see the embers still glowing dully beneath the kindling, and while she is no expert fire-starter, she manages to stoke them back up into smaller flames.

Once that task is accomplished, she sits beside the small fire, tucking her legs beneath her as she stares at the flames. Perhaps if she sits here for a moment and puzzles through her churning thoughts, some peace will finally come to her and then she might be able to take some rest. If not, then she will merely keep vigil out here until the morning. ]

[ His sigh makes the corners of her mouth turn upwards. She does her best to keep her composure and her tail still. Her earlier promise to herself echos in her mind then -- not to push boundaries too far. ]

If you are so intent on spoiling, I doubt much can stop you. As well if you are determined to make sure I'm protected while away. [ She pauses with her smile turning playful, but no more than that. ] I've become rather fond of the design of Ishgardian accessories...

[ Alkaid straightens as he leans forward. A blush takes her face as she stills, waiting to see what he might do. His lips meet her ear and her cheeks turn redder. Her head ducks down only slightly to try and hide the bashfulness taking her face. The smile can be seen as well as how her ear twitches under his touch. She forces down a giggle--just barely. ] It tickles...!

M'Lord?

[ At the sound of the stewards voice, Alkaid straightens entirely with her eyes wide. He can see how red her face is before she hides it behind her hands, as if she is an adolescence being found out by a parent.

The steward clears his throat. ] Shall I draw up separate baths for you and Lady Mercedes? Dinner is being prepared.

[ His hands raise slightly to aid her as she seems to stumble, but her arm goes through his hands. It is a small painful reminder that he is not truly there. His eyes close for a brief moment to compose himself. Let it not be said that the Exarch never acts out of a failure of his character... even now. ]

Friends, is it? Hmm. I suppose I should expect no less. You and your sister were always gifted at befriending others.

[ It takes all of his might not to react more than in voice. His heart speeds up. How long has it been since he heard her call him as such? Friend. When he was a young man, he had always felt that whenever she looked his way? She looked at him but never truly saw him. She saw the strapping young adventurer who tried to understand his lineage and his destiny, but not the man who was driven as a scholar, who wished to adventure as much as she did. Now, he is quite older, and things greater than that wish call him to action.

He thought he had outgrown that desire and that wish. Yet, in that moment, he wishes nothing more to be able to follow her on her next adventure. Ah... dreams. So many dreams. Those he has been entrusted with must come first, even at the cost of his own. ]

The situation my city finds itself in. Perhaps our foes could use a scolding from you. [ He jests to mask the complex emotions swirling in side him. ] Attacks come at any moment, and then there is our rather complex political situation. The former is the more pressing matter.

Perhaps they do not, but I cannot imagine that it would matter either way. The necessity would certainly outshine the emotions, would it not? They would of argued why keeping identities secret mattered. They trusted their comrades that came before and their judgement. We are the newcomers, for all intent and purpose. I very much doubt that they care beyond the fact we are the Warriors of Light.

[ How often have they been asked if they are well? What they might think of things? It is only truly Alphinaud or Krile that asks. The rest simply go about the tasks and plans with their duty attached. She does not rebuke or judge it. Simply point out how it feels, to her, that she and her sister were only recruited for the task of killing Primals and stopping being a political arm.

Her eyes widen at his suggestion. Her ears turn towards him, twitching slightly. ]

I will say this, Alphinaud. If that is what you wish to do? Then you can speak on my behalf on this matter. [ She gives him a gentle smile. ] I am certain you will know when and how to speak to them.

[ The silence is brief until he calls her attention forward. Her ears stand on end as she intently listens for anything shuffling. She can faintly hear a gentle groan, and that is enough to make her rush forward to the pile of rubble. Her side protests loudly against the motion, but all she does is wince and close one eye in pain as she bends down next to the rubble and moves the easiest moved rocks to see what the clothing is attached to.

Small blue eyes meet hers and Alkaid jerks her head around to look at Alphinaud. ]

Alphinaud!

[ Death will be what parts their friendship--or if either entirely throws away their ideals. He hardly sees the latter happening. ]

Or, as I had said, you force the hand of fate. Put yourself forward for a few days of rest. I doubt any here would frown upon the notion for you. [ He is aware that his point will matter little. Once Aymeric has made a decision then he keeps to it. Unless facts and circumstances demand he changes it. ] But, chain yourself as much as you see fit. I doubt Hydaelyn Herself would change your mind.

Hm. Hopefully our paths will keep to themselves. Although, I very much doubt that.

[ Estinien would not see himself indebted to the Scions more than he already is; the little lordling especially. No doubt they would say there is no debt, but he sees it different. They saved his very soul when it would have been wiser to kill him. ]

Of course. Your family is naught else but politicians and soldiers. One would think it madness if you were not in love with the notion of serving Ishgard in such ways. Both ways, in fact.

[ The admittance makes his eyebrows shoot up. Had he been drinking anything? It would of--as politely as possible--ended back up in the cup. He falls quiet a moment as his mind jumps from name to face to discern who caught his best friend's eye.

Although, in truth, it is not hard to narrow it down. Only one person that he has seen makes Aymeric's mood shift to something brighter. Someone, who as he recalls, has an affinity to lillies. ]

While you turn the eye of many women, not many can say the same in reverse. Why is your engagement in such secrecy?

[ He would rather her be herself and act however she will, rather than attempt to stifle herself for his benefit. Perhaps one day soon, he will be able to act upon his passions and not fear the repercussions as much as he presently does. ]

Oh, but I would certainly call it that. I am quite sure that your horizons have been broadened by your travels and because of the people you have met. Speaking for myself, I am not nearly as knowledgeable nor am I wise, given how little I have left Ishgard to travel beyond the borders.

[ In fact, he would go as far as to say he is rather sheltered, all things considered. ]

Then consider the invitation formally extended. It may be some time before it can become reality, but I assure you both that I will do my best to ensure that it does.

[ And having said that, he leans in once more so that he might give her another kiss, pouring as much of his affections into it as he can. ]

[ He imagines there will always be that push and pull with his desires, especially when she is present. He cannot help but be drawn to her, and to her every move, and he's certain that when she finally leaves to resume her duties, he will keenly feel her absence. ]

More than that, I am determined to see both you and K'thisru returning to Ishgard healthy and well. If I can contribute even a small amount of assistance in ensuring that happens, then I will.

[ At her reaction and the way her ear twitches, he gives another careful nibble, barely managing to pull back from her and straighten up as the steward announces his presence. ]

Ah, yes, baths. [ He quickly attempts putting his typical mask of composure back in place, but he also knows how perceptive the steward is. Surely he caught the tail end of his antics, but at least he will have the decency to refrain from commenting on it.

... Until later, that is. ]

What do you say, Alkaid? Would a bath before dinner be to your liking? [ The smallest part of him wishes that they could have a shared bath, but to suggest such a thing would certainly be scandalous. ]

[ Yugiri is not the only one struggling to sleep. One particular Warrior of Light, perhaps two, has also found restlessness under the stars of the Azim Steppe. Perhaps it is homesickness, or an anxiousness of the trial that waits for her and her sister in the morning. The reason seems to be of no matter as the outcome is the same either way.

Alkaid approaches Yugiri with a smile, white light robes dressing her with a blue underskirt. A hand raises in casual greeting as the other holds paper and a quill. She stops beside Yugiri and waits to be offered a seat before moving further. ]

Having a hard time sleeping as well?

[ She smiles shyly, still unsure if she would call it wisdom. ] Well, should you ever have need of our expertise? You should call upon us to share it. Why accumulate it if you don't share the experiences to the benefit of others?

I will officially accept your formal invitation, Ser Aymeric. [ The shy smile widens as he leans in to kiss her. She returns it with as much love, making sure not to allow herself to be carried away. A hand settles under his chin as she finally pulls away. ] Does it still ache?

[ The smallest part of her wishes once again that she could reach out to him and actually have him feel something, but by now, she knows that it would change nothing if she were to express those thoughts again. Little does she know that he tried and failed to assist her. ]

Of course, friends. [ She smiles a little bit bashfully at his statement about the apparent ease with which she and her sister make friends, because she is the last person who would claim that. Even so, it does not seem difficult to her to reach out to others and extend the hand of friendship.

Eventually, though, her expression turns sober once more as she listens to him describe the state of his city and his people. That she feels sympathetic is understating it by a considerable amount. More to the point, she feels largely helpless because at the moment, she is unable to do anything to assist. ]

Oh, if I met them, I would give them more than just a scolding. What is it that makes your situation so complicated?

It matters because how you feel matters, Alkaid. [ At times, he prefers to be more diplomatic about certain things, but there are other times when he cannot help but be a little bit more plain-spoken. ] Surely if they have any regard for you at all, they will want to know what is on your mind. [ And of course, on her heart, but he feels as though it is not his place to assume too much on that score. ] And I hope that you will forgive me for saying this, but if they only care about you and your sister because of who you are as warriors, then they are hardly being fair to either of you and doing you a disservice besides.

[ He truly does not mean to become so passionate about this, but he finds he does not approve of the notion of the Scions seeing the two sisters as nothing more than the Warriors of Light. Still, he imagines they should have the opportunity to defend themselves, on the off chance that that is not how they truly feel.

Regardless, he cannot help but feel troubled on the sisters' behalf. ]

I believe that I will, after I have given the words that I might say some thought. [ He does not mean to charge in full speed ahead without giving the matter proper consideration.

He pays close attention as she moves to investigate what he has just drawn her attention to, and it does not escape his notice that she seems to be move with difficulty. When the two of them have a moment, he means to insist that she rest while he gives her a careful examination. He might not be the most skilled of healers, but he can still manage to have some impact. ]

What is it? [ A note of tension creeps into his voice in response to the suddenness with which she says his name. He is quick to move closer, also bending down to see how he might offer his aid. ]

[ Similarly, Aymeric knows that his friend would never do such a thing, and so he wholeheartedly agrees with the notion that death will be the only thing that sunders their friendship. Even then, that might not be the end of it. ]

I suppose that I could request for a few days of leave from my duties. Surely nothing too dire would transpire in my absence. [ It is still difficult for him to fathom such a thing, because he has spent so long making his sole priority his work and his responsibilities. Having any amount of leisure time is something he cannot begin to imagine. ] I cannot promise anything, but if nothing else, I will take your words to heart and ponder them, my friend.

[ They both know how much of Aymeric's time is given over to pondering various things, most of which are related to his duties. Of late, however, that has shifted and he has found himself pondering other matters of a more personal nature. ]

I would not see you be made uncomfortable by dealings you find undesirable, but I believe that you and the Scions might come to find some common ground. [ He likes to think that there is a foundation already being built, although it is a tenuous one. A certain young lordling is responsible for that. ]

I suppose that one could say that is my heritage and my inheritance. [ And he has largely been resigned to that being his lot in life. It has never chafed, nor has he ever felt discontent with it, but with the advent of certain happenings, he has begun to wish that things could be just a little bit different. ]

It is not a secret, not entirely. We have simply decided not to make too public a scene about it as yet. Simply put, both she and I have our own duties that must be seen to, and her own affairs take her far from Ishgard for great lengths of time.

[ He lets out a small sigh of something that could be construed as a reluctant sort of resignation. Duty cannot and should not be put to the side, and the duty that his betrothed has is far more significant than his own. ]

Until such time as we can find a reprieve from our duties, it seems prudent for us to keep the news to ourselves. But there are few others whom I trust as much as you, so I see no reason why I should not tell you all, if you desire to know.

[ Some of the more personal aspects, he will keep to himself, but there is very little that he would withhold from his old friend. ]

Well then, I look forward to any and all parting gifts.

[ Her face is still hidden by her hands as she masters up the posture to face the house steward again. Her ear twitches as he pulls away, the other lifting to hear what the other man might say. They twitch one more time as she hears their conversation--as brief as it is.

Ah, yes. Baths.

She is ever grateful for her hands hiding her brushing face evenmoreso now. Her disappointment is perfectly hidden, especially as she makes certain not to change any of her posture. Part of her, of course, had been hoping to share one... but now, she is very much reminded of the differences in upbringing. It would be rather scandalous--even for those engaged. It would be too intimate for those not in wedlock. That part of her feels the distinct pang in her heart, but there is little to be done about it.

She will need to not take flirtatious remarks as action in the future.

Alkaid tilts her head briefly, as if to ponder the matter over. Of course, she has already made her decision, but keeping appearances and the game going matters. Her hands slide down her face to reveal a playful expression as she taps her cheek in thought. ]

Well, baths might be a way to wind down before dinner. And, you had wanted to show me traditions the Borels had for Starlight... [ She smiles and nods. ] If we don't intend to go anywhere else this night, then, I think it the best option.

Should I message K'thisru to be on her way home?

Hmm. Does it?

[ Her eyes move upwards. It is not the first time she wonders if how she and her sister feel matters. There has always been a difference in how the Scions approach them versus Aymeric and Lucia. While she does not expect all to give them reverence of their titles? It would be nice to be treated as a friend.

Lyse, for all the mistrust, at least tries. ]

You would be surprised at how unfair the world might be, Alphinaud. Politics is never as such... but people rarely are as well. Which is why, I suppose, the impact Thisru and I make seems to be so large.

[ She would have raised her hand to his head again if what he had pointed out had not caught her attention so.

Once he is at her side, she shifts so he might see the pair of eyes staring at them for help. A few fingers reach out to them, but it is clear the person below is stuck. Alkaid turns her attention back to them and attempts to move some of the heavier rocks, despite the twinge of pain that shoots up her side and back. ]

We have to get them out! Can you help with the larger rocks?

Friends it will be.

[ Although, perhaps, a friend would not ask of her what he will. It would be more akin to the mysterious wizard or even pawnmaster in epic tales. Should that be the role me must play to assure dreams are fulfilled? He will play it with no questions asked. Even if it means her ire and hatred. ]

Our situation... what can be said of it? [ He inhales and closes his eyes as he thinks. ] I suppose, simply put into one word? Annihilation.

Which is why I seek the help of the fabled and storied Warriors of Light. However, certain things must align before... well... perhaps I have said too much already.

If it does, then they will most certainly contact you. The Alliance themselves may even do so while they have sent the Scions on their errands. [ A shrug. Even he noticed how often the Scions would leave in order to deal with another city-state's needs while they sought a way to end the Dragonsong War. It is not his place to comment of course. Politics is far from what he cares to be indebted to. ] Pondering, by far, is one of your better skills.

I am certain we would find common ground. That does not mean I would wish to be in their service or roped into their doings. [ A shake of his head follows the statement. No, he would prefer to live his life wandering and seeing much of what he has not been able to. There are many grievances he must make up for in his own right. ] You would have followed the example of the Borels at some point, Aymeric.

[ His face falls back into its typical stoic nature as he listens to Aymeric speak. The way the frustration shows and the rather vague nature all but confirms in his mind who it is that he is betrothed to. A fine fit in his mind, yet he imagines it must be harder than either would let on. Who knows where the Warriors of Light are in this moment, and that no doubt is eating at his friend's heart. He is used to knowing who is where and what they are doing as reports filter in through the day.

Estinien closes his eyes as he sorts for the best way to find what it is he would say on this matter. The easiest path to say he knows who it is the Lord Speaker has offered his hand to without saying her name directly. Again, it was hardly difficult to deduce after spending as much time as he has with either party. Aymeric would practically glow whenever the Warrior of Lights were near, and his eyes would fall to one in particular. If it had not been for that? Well, the lilies in the parlor were certainly a give away. ]

It must be difficult for you, my friend. You are used to reports daily of where each piece of Ishgard movies and her soldiers. I cannot imagine the worry and frustration you must have being unable to ascertain just where beyond Baelsar's Wall she currently is. [ One eye opens with a smirk touching the corners of his face. ] Finding a lily in the Far East would not be difficult for the right people.

[ Truthfully, even when there are not such events looming on the horizon, Yugiri finds it difficult to sleep. She does not require very much as a rule, or perhaps as a habit, so in a way, this suits her just fine. But she knows full well that sleeplessness does not suit everyone, and so she is surprised when she sees Alkaid making her approach. As she turns her head to look at her, her sharp eyes spot another figure a short distance away, and she wonders if there might be two sitting beside her instead of just one.

But for the moment, she smiles at Alkaid and pats the spot next to her as an invitation to join her. ]

Yes. It seems as though my mind has decided to become restless like the sea. [ But rather than dwell too much on her churning thoughts, she inquires: ] Do you worry about the events to come?

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Page 17 of 26

FF PSL | ❝ for those we can yet save. ❞

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💮 doma— chapter three.

🦅 gyr abania — chapter four.

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