[ It may take some convincing for Aymeric to even consider shedding the mantle that has become so intertwined with who he is, but it is not an impossible task. Still, it has to be done at the right moment, as she surely already knows. ]

Of course, you're right. It would do that, and would set many tongues wagging, I am sure.

[ And he won't have her becoming the target of idle gossip. His reputation is not the only one that he has to worry about. In fact, hers might be the more important of the two, at least in his mind. ]

All the more reason that I should not disturb you. [ He says that with a note of seriousness in his voice; he will not be giving her any orders or instructions this night, but perhaps she wishes to spend the celebration doing as she wills, not being linked with anyone and free to roam around to her heart's content.

Something does seem to be stirring, even with the long awaited arrival of peace. He can't help but think that their time together will be limited, which is why he cannot lose this opportunity. ] I have, and by all accounts, he is well, considering everything he has gone through.

[ He smiles at the notion; everything could have ended badly, what with Estinien's possession and all, and he is beyond relieved that his friend is still with them. ]

For the most part, yes. It has varied at times, given a lack of supplies and numbers of people to assist with the planning, but so many look forward to it, especially Ishgard's young ones.

[ That, more than anything, is a major reason why the celebration continued, even during the more trying times. ]