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

Entry tags:

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

Threaded | Top-Level Comments Only

[ It usually is the other way around, yes, but K'thisru knows she will always be there for her sister to lean on if she needs her. And now it seems as though she does, so she does not shy away from doing her part. ]

But is it running off? The war in Ishgard might have ended, but that doesn't mean that there is no work left there to do or ways that you can help. I am certain that Aymeric would be grateful for any assistance you could offer, both in the city and elsewhere.

[ If the situation were different, she would have tipped Alkaid a wink, but neither of them are really in a jesting mood right now, so she refrains. ]

I'm not sure I do either. I think she'll have to stop her parading around and learn a little, if she can. [ Fine words coming from her, she thinks, because she knows full well that she is every bit as reckless as Lyse seems to be. But she's not the one telling people how to feel or act. ]

She has some lessons she has to learn. [ Like she has had to learn, and a few others of their number such as Alphinaud. ]

I suppose so, but I still wonder how things might have looked if we'd taken another path.

[ Still, he resolves to be careful with the gift she has entrusted him with: revealing her true name to him, and allowing him to address her by her familiar name besides. ]

How could I not give you them? [ He will not be saying this because they do not need the reminder, but their time together may well be brief, and therefore he means to fill every minute with as much love and displays of it as he can. ] I would give you as many as I could, until you grow tired or I run out of breath.

[ He can't help but smile with amusement even as they come together for yet another shared kiss.

As for his plans, well, he has a few of those up his sleeve. ]

I doubt no amount of telling you that you do not need to will keep you from giving them anyways.

[ A small smirk touches her face and her tail flicks side to side playfully. She is all but certain he would give her gifts no matter what she says or does. Ishgard as a whole seems so very starved of not only happiness but affection. Now with the war over, they are able to share and give all that they may have always wished they could.

She presses her forehead to his once the kiss ends and keeps her eyes closed. Her gift almost seems to pale in comparison to the gift of saying 'yes.' Something tells her he certainly has more planned for the night, but she can hardly tell what that might be. Other than, perhaps, showing her more of Ishgard's time honored celebrations. ]

You would truly not mind the fact I may not always be able to be at your side... as your wife?

It would seem that way. One of the Warriors of Light abandoning the cause in Gry Abania to deal with the plights in Ishgard? These people do not care about the lands to the north and what their struggle has been. They care about the struggle here, at home, in front of them. The fact their lives have been uprooted, that the Empire has stolen their homes, that their kin joins the Empire with feeling there is no other recourse.

And... I very much doubt Aymeric would approve of me abandoning duty.

[ In fact, she is very certain that he would not. While thrilled to see her? He may question why she had left the fight simply to spend time with him. ]

Ah, I remember saying something similar about you, at one point. Look at how you've grown! [ She reaches up to gently poke her sister in the cheek. ] I think it was around the time we had met NOAH outside the Crystal Tower...

[ A shrug and a sigh is let out regardless of the fun currently had. ]

More Primals around, perhaps. Who knows what the Black Wolf would have done had we not stopped the Ultima Weapon...

[ Does she not have her own oaths and responsibilities to fulfill? Why would he wish to be always waiting in Ishgard for her to return? If anything, Alkaid wonders why he has chosen her. Could this even be called a stable relationship? Is it even a relationship? She has never bothered with terms or labels for their feelings -- given neither have properly confessed. She still believes that perhaps she is the one too far in love with him and that he should not be saddled down with her and whatever the Scions pull her to do. ]

I am certain they still watch over you. No one is ever truly gone. Even the civilizations devastated by Calamities still remain in some form or fashion. Take the time to close your eyes and listen. They may not speak with words, but, you will most certainly hear them.

[ Or, perhaps her training as a conjurer shows to vibrantly at times. ]

I would not say confidence... but faith. I don't need the credit for helping organize your plans. Take them as needed to Lucia and plan further. You two, after all, will always know Ishgard more than I will.

[ She is certainly tired. Her body is sore and aches from the expenditure of aether, and the warm bath only highlighted it more. However, her care and attention is entirely placed on him for the moment. Her gaze softens at the tired look in his eyes. As she kisses him, her thumbs brush across his cheeks again. ]

Let us both be off to bed then.

I study. Read. Learn.

[ What comes must be stopped at all costs. Their star must be saved, and he intends to do all that he must to see it through till the very end. Or, at least, as much of an end as fate will allow him to play. It is not his tale, but the tale of the brave Sisters of Light.

He can tell that his answers have left her wanting more than he intended. A pause is given as he mulls over what he might share with her. Something that perhaps she had never known as to not ascertain his identity. ]

When I was a younger man, I would spend hours studying. So much, in fact, that my peers would need remind me to eat. T here was a small cafe at the harbor... one dedicated entirely to the design and art of crafting the most amazing food. I found myself always partial to what they called a 'hamburger.'

[ A chuckle then, as if he is remembering a time long past. ] Although, truth be told, I namely ate to sustain myself to further my studies. It was not often that I would eat simply to enjoy food. Such was the attitude of most my peers, actually.

I know, but- [ She bites her lip, a look of unhappiness caused by the fact that there is no solution to this present problem coming to her face. Part of her wants to insist that Alkaid return to Ishgard, but there's another part of her that knows it is something that cannot happen, for the reasons that have already been said. ]

I know that you would not be happy having done something like that, and of course, Aymeric would have questions for you as well. [ And in the end, no one would be truly happy.

But then, as if struck by a certain burst of inspiration, K'thisru briefly removes her arm from where she placed it around her sister, and she resolutely clasps one hand around her fist in a determined gesture. ]

We'll have to help the Ala Mhigans to the best of our ability, putting the threat to rest for good and if we can, bringing balance back to this place.

[ It is all a tall order, which she knows full well, even though they have only been present here for a short time. The struggle that they have been dealing with is no small matter, and although her words are resolute, she knows it will be some time before everything is set to rights, if it is at all. They could still fail in their efforts, but they could also get back up and keep trying.

At Alkaid's poke, K'thisru laughs, but it sounds more like a giggle, something she would have done when she was younger. ]

Everyone has to grow up sometime, don't they? If I could do it, then Lyse has a good chance too. [ She pauses then, thinking back to that encounter. ]

That was some time ago now.

[ She falls silent then for a moment or two, pondering how things might have been different and how bad they could have been. ]

[ Truthfully, he would give everything he owns to the people of Ishgard if he thought that it would help. And now that she has consented to marry him, what is his also belongs to her now. Even on top of that, there is nothing that he would withhold from her for any reason. ]

I am not sure if you are aware of this, but I can manage to be quite stubborn when the mood takes hold of me.

[ He keeps a straight face, but he cannot keep the teasing tone out of his voice as he says those words. As for what he intends to do as the night grows later, well, he would like to bring her to his bed that they might lie together, either in silence or exchanging words. They do not even have to do anything but allow sleep to take them both, if that is what she wishes.

Before that, perhaps, they might sit by the fireplace and share a warm drink. His plans are rather simple, perhaps surprisingly so. But he hopes that she does not mind. ]

I do not. The very knowledge that we two are forever linked, regardless of where your duties may send you, is more than enough to sustain me. I will not pretend that I shall not miss you, of course. Every day that you are gone will seem quite empty indeed.

[ And since he must know her thoughts on this matter, he asks: ] And what of you? Does knowing that we shall most certainly be parted trouble you?

[ That is a fair question, and of course he realizes that her responsibilities far outweigh his own. But in his mind, he would do any amount of waiting for her, even if all they had time for was the briefest of moments together on occasion. Still, it seems to him that a relationship like that cannot be what she is looking for; it is a cheap imitation of what a relationship should be, and he would not willingly subject her to it. Subjecting himself to it is one thing. Doing that to her is another matter entirely.

He supposes the question that should be asked is why they should choose each other, because this certainly is not a stable relationship, when viewed from the perspective of their individual duties. It still could be a relationship, but making it work would take contributions from both of them. He is willing to make those contributions, of course. That has never been up for debate.

He opens his mouth to respond, but it would seem as though she has rendered him speechless by her words. She is right, of course; he does not have to look far to find his parents, because they are still very much with them.

For just a moment, he does close his eyes, more from tiredness than anything else. But he does yearn to hear their voices again, although his own state of mind is too disturbed to allow for such a thing. Perhaps another time when he is more at peace. Nevertheless, he files her words away for that other time, not wishing to forget the counsel she gave him. ]

Faith, then. [ He nods, knowing that it must seem odd for him to have such faith in the ability of others to rise to the occasion, while it seems as though his own foundations have been quite thoroughly rocked. ] Still, if it becomes necessary, and if you are available, might I summon you to the Congregation to further lend your advice?

[ He has no doubt that her presence and any advice she might give will be invaluable. He trusts both Lucia and Alkaid without question, and that is why he wishes to have both of their trusted opinions available. ]

Yes. It is high time you took some rest. [ Like her, his attention is easily shifted away from himself and onto her, because he has not missed the signs pointing to how tired she must also be. Both of them must be well-rested, and he will not keep her up any longer than he already has.

Although he does not rise from where they are both seated, leaning in just slightly as she brushes her thumbs across his cheeks, he does look around for signs of either the steward or the head maid. He is certain neither shall disturb them without cause, and he reasons that they are both so tired that surely nothing more will happen this night than the two of them allowing sleep to claim them quickly. ]

A bed has been prepared for you, which I am certain I mentioned previously. I assure you that it is quite comfortable.

[ He has something he wishes to propose, but it is so far outside of the realm of propriety that he knows not how to broach the subject. Still, he is suddenly realizing his reluctance to part with her, even if it is only until the morning. ]

[ She is making careful note of every word he says, in hopes that some of it might provide her with a clue about who he is and what he is truly like. He may not be able to tell her everything, but she can still glean details from his answers. ]

All right, so what is it that you study? Or what do you hope to learn? It must have something to do with this mysterious future of yours- or ours. [ Since he has been fairly clear that what is still to come concerns her and her sister both. ]

Oh, I see. [ She does not turn down food, or the offer of it, simply because she enjoys food and trying new things. ] A hamburger... [ She ponders this, wondering what it must be like. But she has another, more important question for him, which she also expects he will redirect. ] Which harbor was this?

[ She'll return to the notion of being an avid student shortly. Her interest has been piqued by attempting to put together the pieces of what information he has given her so far. ]

Ancient civilizations. Ones that have passed from Calamities.

[ A broad topic and it is not incorrect. He knows better than to lie to her or her sister. They would find a way to catch him in such an act and all trust in him would be dashed. No, it is better to be truthful and yet vague at the same time. ]

Ah, trying to fish for specifics? [ A teasing smile takes his face then as he raises a finger to his lips. ] For now, let us say it is a harbor that does not see much travel these days. Perhaps, one day, you will see it for yourself. If the Gods are to be good.

[ It would be far too much of a giveaway if she were to find out where he studied. One thing would lead to another. ]

Tell me, where did you study? Ul'dah? I know of no other schooling for summoners. Your sister then... she must have studied in Gridania? That is quite a distance between the pair of you. How did you ever cross paths again?

[ What sort of relationship might she be able to have at all? For as much as she loves to travel and see the world? She does not wish to do it always. Reprieves have to be had, and, part of her very much longs to have a place to call home and a family. While her tribe remains open arms to her? She had decided long ago the path she wanted. It is a path where she might have just her mate. Yet, how could she ask Aymeric to be anything of the sort? He has Ishgard, his House, his bloodline and name to continue on. The Scions will never let her be...

Alkaid lets out a deep sigh as the tiredness spreads across her body. Thinking about how the Scions will call upon her - regardless of how scattered they are - makes her wish to curl up in his arms and ask him once again to not let her go. Her mint eyes open to meet his sky blue ones and she forces a tired smile. ]

Of course. Call upon me or my sister, should you ever need anything. Even if it is to merely rant where prying ears should not hear. I will make sure to keep myself available for the morrow.

[ Her lips brush faintly against his again as her heart sinks ever so slightly. A bed. Truth be told, part of her had still hoped he would whisk her away to sleep beside him. In part because she has grown so used to having someone sleep beside her--quite often her sister. The other part, of course, is because she does not wish to part from him yet. They will have need to in the morning and it is not quite morning.

Alkaid's tail curls beside them as her ear stuck against her head. ]

The point of putting you to bed would be to be with you. [ Her tone is gentle, almost as if she is afraid to speak it louder. She expects him to turn down the idea of it all. Propriety and rumors; even now they must worry about it when none might see them or hear them.

Hands gently pull back and settle in her lap with her gaze dropped. Perhaps she should remove herself entirely so he might stand and head to bed. Of course, he would need to take her to the guest room arranged for her. That or he would ask one of his servants to do so. Her eyes settle on her hands as she begins to entwine them together and twist her forefingers. The nervous habit always shows as she waits for an answer she knows will not be one she wishes to hear. ]

[ Alkaid gives her a small smile before pushing herself to sit upright beside her. It pains her deeply, of course, to be away from the place she considers home. She has just simply learned how to mask it all away in front of the others. Should it be obvious her spirits are down, it will bring down all of those around her. They need something better than that now. ]

You do realize that putting the threat to rest means challenging the Empire itself. Most likely whoever it is that has been put in charge here. [ One leg is pulled up as she turns to face her sister properly now. ] The Resistance needs to be armed better and quite possibly even have greater allies. I'm not certain the Eorzean Alliance is in a place, as of the moment, to take the Empire on in such a decisive blow. The Ala Mhigans need an ally... or several.

[ The giggle brings a smile to her face and a sway of her tail. In moments like these, she feels like a proud mother in a way. Then, her eyes go up back towards the stars. ]

Lyse simply needs to realize that while they are her blood, she is not necessarily their kin in soul and mind just yet. She needs to learn how to empathize with them, not their cause. [ She nods. ] Have you ever thought about traveling back to the Crystal Tower? Seeing what they may have discovered or learned about more of the Allagan technology? Especially after Azys Lla.

Oh, I'm very aware. Who else would insist to meet with a great wrym to convince him to fight against the shade of his brother?

[ She teases in return, her tail flicking side to side. Then, she steps back only enough to motion that he stand. He may be used to the bone chilling cold, but that is no reason for him to remain kneeling in the snow.

Her hands take his then and give a gentle squeeze. ]

I already miss you when we are apart. I miss the sound of your voice and simply being with you. That will hardly change being bound to you.

[ Alkaid kisses his hands then. ]

[ Eventually, the time comes for everyone to retire, and although he imagines it may be somewhat different for the Warriors of Light, he also cannot imagine that she will be chained to that mantle and those responsibilities forever. He does not like to think of it, but so long as war remains and as long as people are fueled by hatred and distrust of each other, there will always be a need for warriors. Perhaps other Warriors will be called, and the reprieve that Alkaid desires will be given.

And although they have yet to truly voice their thoughts concerning one another, let alone determining what this relationship truly is, Aymeric has already begun to think that she is the one he wishes to have standing by him, being his partner in all things and the one that he shares his life with.

So while he may have to let her go in order to see to her duties, he will always be waiting for her to return, no matter how long a time it might be. ]

Thank you. You are too good to us here, even with all the demands on your time that we place upon you and your sister.

[ But privately, whenever they have the opportunity to meet, even if it is only for business, he still welcomes those opportunities.

As he watches, he can see that he has chosen the wrong sort of words once again. He spoke as the lord of this house would, not as himself, and he can see that doing so has disappointed her. Truthfully, he fears what might become of her reputation should this encounter be discovered, even though he knows no one within these walls will talk of it to others not part of the house. He has his own reputation to think of, of course, but that is not at the forefront of his mind just now. ]

Then... [ His mind is still giving loud and clear warnings about the foolishness of this, but he chooses to ignore those warnings and forge on ahead. ] Then that is what we will do.

[ He knows it is what he desires, and she has made her desires plain, so he sees no reason to continue lingering on the fence, wavering between right and wrong.

Without another moment of hesitation, he reaches for her hands and gives a light pull, hoping that she will stand and come with him. A stray thought enters his mind about merely picking her up and carrying her that way, but he wonders if she might push him away if he were to attempt such a thing.

Still, he waits with his hands on hers, watching for her reaction. ]

[ There must have been Warriors of Light chosen by Hydaelyn in other ages. She cannot imagine that her and her sister are so uniquely special that they would be the only ones. There had been those chosen before the Seventh Calamity, hadn't there? Memories had been covered by the act that saved the star. An act that she knows only her, her sister, Alphinaud and Alisaie will ever truly know.

She would love nothing more than to spend her days with Aymeric in Ishgard. While she will always have a lust for travel? She would have him at her side through all the sights and sounds. Perhaps one day they might find an excuse to do so. She never was able to follow up on her promise to introduce him to the moogles... ]

Perhaps more people should be willing to lend aid. Then it might not be as special as it must seem.

[ Her shoulders sag for but a moment before she squares them again and forces herself out of the reactionary state. While she may wish to be at his side in all things? It is simply not realistic. Not with politics, policies, standards. So, instead she offers him an understanding smile even if there is still lingering sadness in the corner of her eyes.

She understands that they should not and is moves to tell him as such. He beats her to speaking, and thr next words he says shock her. Her ears stand on end and her tail straightens in surprise. He encloses his hands around hers and she moves with him as if on perfect queue to stand up.

In all honesty, she is struck wordlessly. What can she say that might convey her surprise, and yet her willingness to follow him endlessly? ]

[ Strangely enough, his thoughts have strayed from the guilt and regret that he has been feeling for what he still sees as a failure on his part. Instead, he has begun to think of what he might do to ensure that he and Alkaid get to spend at least some time together. In what capacity remains to be seen, but for the first time, he has begun to entertain the thought of attempting to forge a more permanent connection with her. Of course, some might call it premature, as they still have a lot to learn about one another, but is that not part of the journey?

Her voice interrupts his thoughts, and he is quick to focus back on her. ]

If people are unwilling to lend aid, it is only because Ishgard has been closed off for so long. In that respect, our apparent isolation is our own doing. It is not surprising that the number of those who would aid us remains small.

[ But speaking of this only adds to the weariness that has begun to settle on him, and while he cannot realistically run away from the consequences of his actions and the actions of others, he simply lacks the energy to face these problems at the present time.

When she stands, he smiles, but it is quick to fade when he realizes that she may not be pleased by his words. ]

This is what you wish to do, is it not? I only want to ensure that your needs are met. If this is wrong, then I would hear of it before I take a misstep.

I would have done that and more if it meant saving the lives of innocents and doing what I could in hopes of bringing the war to a conclusion. [ He is all too aware of what he would have sacrificed in order to bring peace to Ishgard, and now that it is over, he is relieved that he did not have to make that terrible choice. ] I imagine that I shall not quickly forget that particular occasion nor how it felt to be face to face with Hraesvelgr.

[ If anything, it made him all too aware of his own mortality and of how easily the wyrm could have eliminated him where he stood. Still, he says none of this, choosing instead to focus on this lighthearted moment that they are sharing. ]

And I too miss your closeness, the sound of your voice, and even the sound of your steps as you walk. I can scarcely imagine being apart from you for even a moment, but I know that cannot be helped for either of us.

[ His home- Their home, now, will feel so very empty without her to share it with him, but he is confident that she will return when she is able.

The feel of her kissing his hands makes his heart ache and brings a smile to his face all at the same time. ]

I consider myself so very honored that you said yes. [ As the Warrior of Light, she could choose anyone that she wishes, and yet she has chosen him. He feels undeserving and yet so very grateful and thankful.

And now that she has said yes, he cannot help but think how their future together might look. They will be separated, of course, but they can still begin to build a life together. ]

[ She feels a ripple of frustration because of how easily he forestalls her. Of course, she did not expect anything different, but she wishes to connect those dots, to bring together the pieces of things she knows about him. Even if she knew where he studied, that would be something more than what she knows now. ]

Of course I am. [ She cannot hide the mildly frustrated tone in her voice, even though she understands why he will not be more forthcoming. ] I know so little about you, and even the smallest piece of information would mean something.

[ Shaking her head, she does her best to will that flare of frustration to pass. ]

Yes, I studied in Ul'dah, and my sister did her studying in Gridania. We did not intend to part, but we were both interested in different things, so- [ She waves a hand as if to explain that part of their early days. ]

As for how we came together again, by chance or something else, we both managed to meet the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, or their representatives. Eventually, our involvement with them brought us back together.

[ K'thisru opens her mouth to say something, but Alkaid keeps on going with what she knows is only the truth of the matter. Still, she feels a little chastised, even if she is certain that isn't how her sister means it to sound. The reminder is one she needs, even though all she really wants is for Alkaid to be happy. Nevertheless, neither she nor Aymeric would be really happy, knowing that she left what is presently her duty behind. ]

Of course I realize that. I only mean that for your sake and Aymeric's as well, I hope that this conflict finds a resolution as quickly as possible. It will still take time, but I can at least hope for that.

[ She frowns as she mulls over everything that needs to happen in order for them to successfully challenge the Empire. ]

How any of this will happen, I don't know. Something must be done, but what and how? [ The odds seem fairly stacked against them, but still, she remains confident that they'll find a way somehow.

As for Lyse, she supposes it isn't impossible for her to learn those lessons, but it will take her some time as well. ]

The Crystal Tower? [ She tilts her head to one side, surprised by the sudden question. ] We did leave a little suddenly. [ Or perhaps it only seems that way to her. ] I wouldn't mind going back, would you?

[ There is a visible pause at her tone of voice. Of course, her frustration is far from surprising. In fact, he can understand it all too well. He certainly deserves any ire or lack of trust she would give him. He is merely a shade in her point in time. A ghost that will have little more than a footnote in her story.

His eyes close as he knows even the smallest detail of his past could lead her to discover his identity. And, knowing her as he does, she will attempt to stop him ebe more if she knows who he is. That is if she even remembers him. He would not expect her to remember the days under a glimmering tower and promises made for a symbol of hope for mankind. Perhaps she remembers the battles and the daring journey to the Void...

Yet, why would she remember him? Surely he made no lasting impression. Just a young man who thought he could be as the heroes of eld; as the hero beside him. Young and foolish to dive head first into the adventure that explained his duty and his ancestral duty. ]

A joyous day that reunion must have been for the pair of you. Truly, a beautiful sight to behold.

[ His crystal hand raises and stretches out to the falling snow. ]

I know that my words and my promises would mean little. But, please believe me when I say that when the time is right, you will learn all you need to. [ The outstretched hand clutch he's as his heart beats painfully. ] My identity outside of my charge means lite. Certainly who I was before named the Crystal Exarch. It was, after all, so very long ago.

We do what we must for the future of our star. For those we can yet save. That is my single cause and reason to press on now. Saving our star. I will do all that I must to obtain that covenant future.

[ She squeezes her hand after her small moment of motherly overtones. Alkaid hardly thinks her sister is unable to grasp the situation at all. In fact, she needs the little reminders that K'Thisru gives. All too often. Can she become involved in the plight of others and not think once of her own happiness. ]

We spoke about our being separated when he proposed. While we both understand it... it's harder than I imagined it would be. I wonder if it is just as hard for him...

[ She shrugs. She is far from a tactician and neither of them know this land as well as they know Ishgard. Something will be found or discussed. It is simply a matter of seeing if they still wish to fight. ]

I wouldn't mind at all. In fact, they may have discovered something more in our absence. Though, I doubt it would be enough to wake G'raha Tia...

[ Sometime is surely better than no time at all. All she can do is hope that they might be able to find more small moments as the war continues to move onto its final strokes. Perhaps... even more time once the war has finally concluded. Time when she might be able to put being a Scion to the side. Dinners, to start. If he might be interested in picking up where they had been interrupted. ]

Many have become more open minded since the days of the Calamity. Your neighbors most certainly will come to aid if you all but ask. Especially after you have become so willing to open the doors to them.

[ Yet, she can see the weight starting to form once more on his shoulders. She raises a finger to her lips and gives a small wink. No more will they speak of plans in the morning or politics. Whatever conversations will happen tonight will be left to themselves. Her fingers move to slide in between his to nudge him to lead the way. ]

I think we should do what we both wish to. Pleasing one and not the other seems a pointless endeavor when it comes to something like this. [ This, them. Us. ] I thought it might help you rest if you had someone beside you... and I've become used to having someone next to me. Either due to traveling, or my sister...

You have done enough--all that one man can do. [ She squeezes his hands affectionately and to also reassure him. ] You should see Midgardsommer. He is even more a sight to behold than his son.

[ That is, of course, the dragon in his fullest. The smaller version she rode into Ishgard on. Although, Mor Dhona is quite the ride from where they are now. She notes it as just one of many places she wishes to take him. It seems like a never ending list until she can present them and have him eliminate places. Would he wish to travel? Surely, he doesn't have the same desire as she or her sister.

She certainly hopes her sister finds one who can travel freely with her. ]

I am honored that the Speaker of the House would even look to an outsider for his ... wife. [ A blush takes her face as she had almost said mate. ] You know the sound of my footsteps, do you? I suppose that would make it hard to surprise you then.

[ A playful look takes her place as she returns to his side, hand interlocked with his. The notion is for him to continue forward with their walk or his surprises. Whichever it is that he has in store for them . ]

[ He would love to extend another dinner invitation to her, considering how their first one was interrupted. There is still so much he wishes to talk about and to ask her, and of course, he also wishes to have a dinner with both of the sisters present. One group dinner and one more private one, if he might be so bold as to hope for that. If this war ever ends, he resolves to do just that. ]

I must admit that I do feel more inclined to reach out to our neighbors and those who would be our allies. There are some ventures that can be succeeded on one's own, but there are many that require assistance and cooperation, and between us, I would see Ishgard take up a place in Eorzea's alliance.

[ He makes a mental note to himself to see about further opening the channels of communication between Ishgard and the others who participate in the alliance.

For now, though, he is far too tired to think on such things for very long, despite all of his protests to the contrary. And as she goes on to express her thoughts, he falls silent once more to listen. ]

I suppose I should also admit that I am not accustomed to having someone beside me. It has been some time since my mother would stay with me until I slept; I was a boy then, not yet a man, you see. [ She was the only mother that he had ever known, so of course it seems natural that he would draw comfort from her presence. It's hardly a novel concept, of course, because all children draw comfort from their parents, so he isn't even certain why he mentioned it.

But then he manages a small yet gentle smile for her benefit. ] If it helps the both of us find rest, then you are welcome to join me.

[ He gives her hand a squeeze, and then he begins to lead her to his room. ]

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

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