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synthneon2021-11-19 12:58 am
hobbitholmes) wrote in synthneon2021-11-19 12:58 am
Entry tags:
FF PSL | β for those we can yet save. β
AFTERGLOW
β hear, feel think. β
βοΈ HEAVENSWARD
β
Ever Heavensward (3.0)
β Ishgard Meetings, Part 2
β As Goes Light, So Goes Darkness (3.1)
β Unfleeting Emotions
β The Gears of Change (3.2)
β Heavy Hearts, Part 2
β Revenge of the Horde (3.3)
β Starlight Festival (Alkaid)
β Starlight Festival (KP)
β Ishgard Meetings, Part 2
β As Goes Light, So Goes Darkness (3.1)
β Unfleeting Emotions
β The Gears of Change (3.2)
β Heavy Hearts, Part 2
β Revenge of the Horde (3.3)
β Starlight Festival (Alkaid)
β Starlight Festival (KP)
π₯ STORMBLOOD
β
IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
β IC Permission
βοΈ she was requested ~ let's say 3.1 era (ignore the wrong hair style/color icons) βοΈ
Alkaid Mercedes (a monkier, she finds it easier to call herself by such to others) takes the few steps on the snow patched ground to look at the towering buildings. There is a brief moment where she turns towards the building where the Lord Commander and the First Commander take office. Of course, there is no official business to be had. Absolutely no reason to see if the Lord Commander would seek an audience with her... so, instead, she pulls her footing back and turns to look upwards at the sky.
The nighttime snow has yet to start falling, but, she can feel the chill in the air even through her several layer of clothes. No doubt her sister will be waiting at the Forgotten Knight soon. The two have much to catch up on with their recent adventures since the fall of Thordan, and Estinen's fate -- a fate she's quite sure to make temporary... ]
ahh yes this gonna be good
He intends to be present every step of the way, to encourage the people and to see Ishgard returned to as close to a state of harmony as he can manage, by any means necessary. No personal sacrifice on his part is too small if it means achieving that goal.
Finally, after what feels like an entire day filled with meetings and papers and other documents to sign, he lays down his pen and looks to Lucia. ]
I believe you and I have done enough for one long day. [ He still has some affairs to see to, but she has earned a night's rest. ] You may retire for the evening, if you wish. I should think I won't be very far behind you.
[ In a manner of speaking. It is somewhat of a thought said in jest that he sleeps in these very offices, but of course that isn't entirely true. He has a place other than here where he goes to rest, but it can't be said that he doesn't spend nearly every waking hour right here. ]
Good night. [ He inclines his head to his departing First Commander, and once silence settles in the room once more, he surveys the remaining papers before him. They must be addressed this evening, but surely he can afford the briefest of respites outside the confines of this room.
With that in mind, he moves towards the doorway that Lucia just passed through, pulls open the door, and steps outside into the brisk air, letting the chill settle in around him. It does feel somewhat refreshing, after having been indoors for the majority of the day, and while he is accustomed to it, even he can still say that this weather is far colder than he would prefer.
It's while he's taking his momentary rest from his work that his eyes stray to one side, noting the various people going about their business before they return to their homes. He looks from one to the other, making note of each one, before his gaze finally lands on someone standing in the crowd but slightly apart from it as well.
Ah. He knows this one. She is not a resident of Ishgard, although at this point, she could be considered an honorary one. Why is she here? He can't help but wonder even as he hesitates, considering whether or not he should approach.
Perhaps he can inquire as to her well-being, and then let her go wherever her path was taking her. He steps a few paces closer and clears his throat. ]
Mistress Mercedes?
oh word barf already!?
Alkaid turns slowly to look over her shoulder at Ser Aymeric. A gentle smile crosses her features before a slight raise of her hand in greeting. For as formal as one might think her to be? Alkaid is the opposite in many regards. If anything? Her sister is the more formal. ]
Ser Aymeric!
[ Then, she turns to properly face him. Her tail sways side to side gently. One cannot always stop their natural movements when they are feeling one emotion or another. Ser Aymeric has garnered not only her respect, but also something more. A deep sense of admiration that she has done her utmost to keep as such... despite what others might encourage her to do. ]
Don't tell me you've been working late again.
Aymeric has a lot of thoughts!
And, naturally, as Lord Commander, he must comport himself properly and formally as befitting his position. With that in mind, he graces her with a small smile and a nod of acknowledgment even as he notes the swaying motion her tail is making. Perhaps it is good that he possesses no such thing, or he might very well be doing the same. ]
Good evening, Mistress Mercedes. Are you well?
[ He can't help but inquire as to her well-being before he answers. ]
Ah. [ He glances briefly behind him in the direction of his offices. ] Yes, I had some affairs that still required my attention, but that is to be expected.
[ His work seldom ever ends, but it seems that his workload has increased of late and will only continue to do so. ]
But never mind me; what is it that brings you here?
s-slowly working on getting her a voice down /dumps feels
[ Of course, she would like to ask him more than formally if he is well. While their time in Isghard had not been kind to any of them? Alkaid knows that it was particularly harsh on Aymeric. Thordan was more than just the head of their government and their religion---he was Aymeric's father. Regardless of the fact the man and the Heavens' Ward needed to be stopped? He was Aymeric's father.
She and Thisru ended his life.
Sometimes she wonders how the Lord Commander can look at the two of them and not see them as the murderers of his only family. That is one of many things she would discuss with him if things... well, if she did not feel as if she had to always be the Warrior of Light. The hero to Ishgard. ]
Staying up so late isn't healthy for the leader of Isghard. [ A small bit of advice coming from a healer, a smirk, and her tail swaying just a bit more. ] What would the House of Lords say?
[ She has a fairly good idea what they would say.
He did ask her a question however. There is a shake of her head. She would hear more of his day and what struggles Isghard now faces. They are, in part, her own fault they are as they are. ]
I've just returned from the Churning Mists on behalf of the moogles there... [ Her head tilts as she pauses. They had told him of the moogles that worked along side the great wrym Hraesvelgr. She glances at the Forgotten Knight. ] If the Lord Commander so wishes it, I could inform him of the work being done to bridge trust with the dragons again.
[ Teasing? Certainly not. ]
that makes two of us, for both things
[ He straightens himself up then, holding his posture erectly, if not a little bit stiffly. Of course he holds no ill will towards either Alkaid or her sister; although he may not have seen it before, this always was the path they were heading towards. Does he wish for one more chance to attempt reasoning with his father? Of course. Would he see these events undone if only he could manage that? Of course the answer is no.
His father made his choices and he has made his. ]
Perhaps not, but at times it is necessary. [ Who will do the work he has before him except for himself? Lucia assists when she is able, but there are certain tasks that only he can do. ] The House of Lords...
[ He frowns a little bit then, in spite of himself. Just as she does, he knows what they would say, and he doesn't wish to dwell on it overmuch. ]
I see. And how was your journey both there and back? [ In a way, part of him envies her and the relative freedom with which she moves. He can't help but latch onto her next words with no small amount of eagerness: anything that might prolong this conversation with her.
Is she teasing? He tilts his head just slightly to one side as he ponders her statement. If she is, well, he can't say he doesn't like it. ] If you are willing to do so, then I, of course, shall listen.
[ Truthfully, he would gladly listen to any word that leaves her mouth, whether of moogles and dragons or of even the smallest ant that crawls along the stones... in a warmer climate, of course. ]
rolls around till we hit our stride!
It was a safe journey; safer than dealing with the House of Lords. [ Yes, she is teasing in all good faith. Her smile remains on her face as well as the playful glint in her eyes. It might do the Lord Commander some good to smile and laugh easy. ] If you don't mind the notion that this could be seen as work... and you've just left the Congregation...
[ Regardless of what she says, Alkaid has already started taking the few steps needed to move to the Forgotten Knight. Her hand raises to tug on drapes of his armor in a way to beckon he follow her. Grabbing for his hand would seem far too familiar and, well, the Isghardians do love their formalities. She would not ruin the honor he has built with those who believe in the ideals of peace with the dragons.
She presumes he'll follow her along and practically skips a few wooden steps at time within the familiar inn. Her hand lifts slightly in a wave at the familiar innkeep who nods, but seems to be only somewhat surprised to see the Lord Commander. Alkaid pays the looks no mind as she finds a table towards the back and takes a seat. Once he joins her, she reaches up and pulls her hood down. A shake of her head to free the patted down short black hair and a twitch of her ears at the fact they're no longer restricted. ]
Moogles... [ Alkaid stretches and leans back in her chair to relax some. ] The Moogles of the Churning Mists have a long standing agreement with Hraesvelgr to protect the lands. Which, given the size of them--[ her hands raise to gesture to the dimensions of the average moogle, ]--is quite a feat in itself. They've recently reached out to artisans of Isghard in order to restore the Bahrr Lehs. It's an ancient ruins of a place where Elezen lived when there was harmony between them and dragons. The Mogmenders wish to restore the plaza to its former glory to bring your peoples together.
[ At that, she smiles in a shy yet proud manner. ] They've done good work so far.
rolls with~ we'll get there eventually
Well, I am glad to hear that. You would be correct in saying that, at times, dealing with the House of Lords is a bit of a trying affair. [ And then he looks around their surroundings, as if to ascertain that no one has overheard him state his thoughts on that score. That would hardly do. ] Any sort of meeting with the House tends to take several hours, each of them long.
[ But he shouldn't speak so, not here where anyone could be listening. ]
I hardly mind at all, Mistress. [ Any moment spent in her company is pleasing to him, and so he has no objections whatsoever when she reaches out to tug on the carefully draped cloth that he wears alongside his armor.
He might even be a bit surprised at her boldness, but he finds himself rather liking it as well. And of course, he does follow along after her until both of them have arrived at their destination.
He takes a seat as well, but unlike her, he has no articles of clothing to adjust as she did with her hood. He smiles once again when she shakes her head and her ears give a little twitch before focusing on her and the conversation at hand.
As he listens, he forms a steeple with his index fingers, mind already filing away the information she's relaying to him about the Moogles and the agreement they have with Hraesvelgr. ]
So I see. If they are as agreeable as your words make them sound, this arrangement that they wish to pursue seems also agreeable.
[ At the least, he sees no reason why such a thing should not occur. ]
I would see this for myself, if only my duties would release me long enough. [ But of course, that's also hardly possible. ] I shall have to rely on your reports as you give them. And of course, they are always more than satisfactory.
i think they on their way there already!
[ Although, she also prefers being out among people and helping them. Sometimes, though, the best way to help them is sometimes in the thralls of politics. Both are needed when it comes to dealing with the Empire and the Beastmen... now the dragons. Surely, they'll find a way to resolve that as well.
She nods. ]
The Moogles have had a long standing agreement with Hraesvelgr. I hope that if they're able to repair the plaza it will show that your people intend fully to be at peace with them. Considering that one of the most regarded artisans in Ishgard decided to help them. [ A smile spreads on her face. ] We've even found a way to make tools for them that fit their paws more.
[ Full of pride? Just a bit. It took no small amount of work to create such tools. Even more to make sure that they would inspire the moogles to continue on their path. The fact that they are tricksters who tend to laze about is no secret. ]
Well... what if the Warrior of Light personally requested that the Lord Commander accompany her to see the work? In the name of peace, of course.
[ Though, she cannot help that her eyes drift slightly to the side. If only because she is aware that many might whisper about the Lord Commander and one of the Warriors of Light conversing so plainly in the open. Rumors abound. Aymeric has many enemies and far fewer allies as things have moved to change in Ishgard. She would be amiss to make things worse... ]
You're sure it's alright to be seen in public so candidly with me? [ Her tone drops to a quieter one then. Her ears fold back against her head. Eyebrows furrow and a small frown takes her face. ] I don't wish to cause any more strife for you...
they definitely seem to be!
[ He gives her a glance then, certain that she will understand his meaning. He has considered politics and such maneuverings as a chore made necessary by his position, but he can hardly state that so plainly. Still, he imagines she will grasp what he is saying and not saying. ]
I suppose in a way, such meetings are a way to pass the time as much as they are necessary.
[ So in that sense, he also does not mind stuffy meetings. If he had a choice, he would spend more time amongst the people, but his role and standing does not permit such a thing very often. ]
For me, if you and others like you vouch for them, I am inclined to believe them. Others may require more persuasion and proof, of course, and it seems that events are already in motion that will provide those things. I imagine they could hardly work effectively if they were unable to hold onto their tools, so that is also a good thing.
[ He smiles a little when he notes the pride in her voice. But then he pauses to consider her proposition. ]
Of course, with such a request, few would think to question it, and if they did, barring a few notable exceptions, it would be rather brief. [ He knows full well that there are those who would question it for much longer than that, but on the whole, the reputation of the Warrior of Light proceeds her and her sister, and that is enough to forestall questions in most cases.
But of course, he notes the way her gaze shifts and he can only wonder if her thoughts might be echoing his, at least in this moment. His position is far more precarious than one might assume, and because of that, he has to weigh his movements and his decisions quite carefully. ]
I am very sure, yes. [ He may very well be leaving himself open to unwanted chatter or something else besides, but while he has somewhat unwisely lowered his guard in the past, he is determined to be more watchful going forward. ] Strife will come, whether I will it or not, and if it comes because I have met with you-
[ He shakes his head. ]
Whatever happens, happens. [ Those who advise him would disagree vehemently, but this meeting between them is just that: a meeting. And he sees no reason why he, as the Lord Commander, should not have meetings with one of the two Warriors of Light, regardless of what conclusions people might reach for.
And this meeting is hardly for frivolous reasons, which the two of them know full well. Others may not, of course, but he means to go forward with this regardless. ]
i feel like i should be surprised, and yet...
[ When his father...certainly did not. Not that she will be saying that out loud. She would rather not speak of what his father became. A primal, for certain, as Aymeric knows. However, the details, she feels are better left unknown. Even if he and his father were not the closest? She can only imagine what it must have been like to see the man Aymeric believed he knew fall into the trap of the Ascians. ]
Wait until you attend your first meeting with the other leaders of the city-states. They can go on for hours.
[ A smile tugs at her face. ] Then... should I formally extend the offer to the Lord Commander? I imagine it will raise spirits and inspire them as well.
[ Her gaze drops slightly as he speaks further and her ears press further against the top of her head. Of course, she still vividly remembers receiving the news of the attack on Aymeric's person. While all reacted in shock? She knows she was worried, stressed, and down right willing to argue with anyone that would not let her help in healing his wounds. Of course, they insisted otherwise, and she was asked to see to other tasks with her sister. K'thisru has been the only one to see that it is not merely admiration that she feels towards the Lord Commander.
Not that it matters regardless.
Still, she would hate to see something like that attack transpire simply because he is seen in public with one of the Warriors of Light. Alone in public with her. ]
...You're absolutely certain of that?
no subject
You are too kind and far too complimentary. It is not anything that I do or say that captures attention. After all, I would not be able to do that if the desire was not already alive in those around me.
[ He means to say that he will not claim credit for the fact that people follow him and are loyal to him.
As for his father, he is still sorting out his thoughts on that score. At the moment, however, he can hardly devote more than a passing thought here and there to that topic. His focus needs to be elsewhere, and he can hardly let his inner thoughts be known or even seen in any emotions that slip past the look of resolve that he so often wears. ]
Hours, you say. Well, I best steel myself for them now. I thank you for the warning.
[ And once more, he offers her a smile in exchange for her own. ] That is one offer that I shall gladly accept. And I imagine that its effects will be felt by many.
[ But then his smile fades just a bit as he notices the shift in her demeanor. He tries but fails to keep a look of worry from forming on his face as he watches her, posing a question of his own before he answers the question she asked of him. ]
Is something amiss? You seem- [ He pauses here, wondering what word he ought to use, and if it is overstepping somehow if he comments on her shift in expression. ] You seem worried.
[ Is there anything that I might do? He wishes that he could ask that question, because truthfully, he wishes that he could help shoulder some of the weight that she and her sister carry due to their status as the Warriors of Light. ]
But to answer your question, I am absolutely certain.
[ Perhaps it is unwise, but he believes wholeheartedly that this is one meeting that he will not regret in any shape or form.
And then an expression breaks through that is far removed from his usual mask of stoicism. ]
If I might say this... [ He begins to speak, but at the very last second, interrupts himself before he can finish. Perhaps exercising the candor that he wishes to in this moment is also unwise, and thus he hesitates. ]
no subject
The belief might be there in others, but you offer a direction for it to channel to. A way forward for those with the drive and the desire. Don't diminish your part so much when so many look up to what you, Lucia, and Hilda are achieving.
[ Aymeric may be humble, but she has seen Alphinaud deny his part out of fear that he might cause something worse than the fall out of the Crystal Braves. She would not see that happen to another she cares for. Even if that care -- or at least how deep it is -- will remain secret. Alkaid has no delusions or ideas at how it would seem if one of the Warriors of Light were impartial because of a deep affection for the head of state. Instead, she finds other, less satifisying ways to channel it into.
If she can repair Ishgard even to the smallest amount, that will be enough. Rebuilding his home and his people might be the only way to express her affection ... even if it may be entirely unseen.
A sigh comes from her then. She turns back to face him, ears still lowered, an expression mixed with worry and frustration she cannot but hope to express properly. Not simply because she is in public, but because she has been reminded time and time again it is not her place. There are other healers to care for the Lord Commander. ]
Of course I'm worried... for you. Hearing the news of the attack and... being bared from aiding... [ Alkaid frowns and merely glances to the side. She is a Warrior of Light, but she is also a conjurer with a soul crystal of a white mage. A healer--a mender. ] I don't want to cause more strife or danger than you are already in. That is all.
[ She shakes her head and tries to force her mood and posture to something more of fair spirits. ]
Please, Ser Aymeric, say what you will. The Gods know I do not hold my opinion back. Much to some distress of my fellow Scions. [ A forced smile, but smile nonetheless. ] And, do consider yourself formally invites to join me the day after tomorrow at the airship landing.
... Do I need to submit paperwork for any formal invitation?
no subject
You would be right in saying that it is not needed, because others have done far greater deeds than I, and therefore it is them who deserves such words.
But I suppose that I can grant you that, at least, even though what we are doing is done from necessity and with the well-being of the people in mind. [ At least, that is what drives him, and he knows that Lucia's thoughts often align with his because they are quite similar in some ways. Hilda has surprised him, and yet he already has begun to count her as an ally.
Alkaid is also someone whom he values very much and has become quite fond of, even though he has done his best to keep the true depths of his feelings towards her under wraps, as he feels they should be. She has earned his respect, yes, but he has also come to care about her very much.
Even so, he has already resolved that his affection should remain concealed as much as possible, because she is one who deserves better than someone whose time will always be forever divided because of his responsibilities and duties. And also, he imagines that he should not dare to hope that she might return the affection he feels for her. Surely a Warrior of Light has her eyes set elsewhere: to her duties, yes, but it is not hard for him to conceive that she might find herself captivated by another. Another fellow Scion, perhaps.
And he knows that whoever that fortunate individual may be, he will quietly resent the man she chooses because it cannot be him, and admire him if he makes her smile.
When she finally admits to being worried for him, he lets out a sigh, one hand moving of its own accord to the place where he was struck. The wound, or what is left of it, does not bother him now, but the memory of the encounter is still quite fresh in his mind, and evidently is also in hers. ]
Please, there is nothing for you to worry about. I would not have you feeling concern on my account. [ Here he puts on a smile solely for her benefit. ] I am all right, you see? I am sure that had you been present, the added benefits would have been even greater, but there is no reason for you to fret.
As for strife and danger, these are dangerous times, and we all face conflict in one form or another. [ He does not wish to think that he should be spared from strife and danger for any reason, not when threats abound and there are those who are truly vulnerable and lacking anyone to take up their cause.
If he could, he would take up that cause, because in his mind, everyone (barring the truly nefarious, of course) deserves protection and aid. ]
I only meant to say that I have come to enjoy your company very much, when our paths manage to intersect.
[ His smile widens then, and there is a palpable warmth contained in it. ]
I suppose that with respect to the proper channels, there is some paperwork involved, but that also means that there will be a delay. However, I have a solution for this, if you might find it to your liking.
no subject
[ She is full glad of the table that hides her hands. He is unable to see how her fingers curl into the cotton fabric on her legs. Should she say anything? Ishgard in no way should make way for her or her abilities. They owe her nothing, and instead, she is the one that should pave a way for them. What place is it of her to complain she was unable to heal someone? They would argue the Warrior of Light has better things to do -- more important things. Yet, there are two of them. Surely her sister could handle things while she healed someone dearly important to all of them, not just her...
Her gaze drops to the table. Part of her is already ashamed of what she will say before she even says it. ]
I was there... as was K'thisru and Alphinaud. They insisted that they did not need our aid--that we were needed elsewhere. [ Her brow furrows as the obvious frustrations start to truly show. ] Even before I received the Blessing of Light, I was a student of conjury. I took up the skill of alchemy to even improve helping those that might not respond to the magicks of healing. Still, even then...
[ Alkaid allows her shoulders to sag for bit a moment. Then, her mint green eyes open to look up at him. Her ears are still yet tucked against her head and the forced smile has once again faded.
It pained her beyond being the Warrior of Light, being an ally, or the savior of Ishgard. As a healer--as someone who cares for him deeply. He might never know her affections. Even then, if he looks closely, he might see the pain hidden behind the mantle she tucks herself away from. They all expect the Warrior of Light, after all, never the woman underneath it all. ]
I suppose there is little point in remorse of it over it if you insist all is well. [ Or, at least, showing the remorse. Her ears gently lift a bit from her head as she forces herself once again to be in a lighter mood. ] I wish there was more time for us to share company like this.
[ Perhaps she might yet say it.. in a manner of speaking. Small hidden ways. Ones that he might not pick up on. ]
What might be your solution to dreadful paperwork?
no subject
He may not be able to see her hands and what she is doing with them, but he doesn't have to in order to realize that something is troubling her. Her posture seems tense, and there is a look in her eyes that troubles him by extension. ]
You... You were? [ He had not realized that, but he was just a little distracted at the time. His expression turns into a frown and in spite of himself, his hands clench together to form fists. ] I must apologize, I- [ Something clenches in his throat, cutting off his speech. Thus far, he has done his best to keep his emotions contained, as there is far too much riding on him to allow for anything else.
That is how it has always been, and now is no exception. ]
Mistress Alkaid, I am very sorry. [ The pain that she seems to be feeling is mirrored in his own expression as he feels a sudden heaviness sweep over him. There is so much he still has yet to process, and this latest piece of news from one he has come to hold in high regard has only added to the weight that has settled on him. ]
I would not wish to add more responsibilities to the ones you already carry, not for my sake, but you should not have been prevented from assisting. [ He means to give orders on that subject as soon as he is able. ]
But yes, all things considered, I am well. [ Tired, and weighed down, but that is true for all of them. ] And I also wish for that.
[ There is something about these meetings between them that set them apart from the countless others he carries out in his day to day, and while he can't put a finger on what that something is, he knows that he values them very highly. ]
My solution is that if you were to hand your paperwork over to Lucia, she would see it delivered to me with all haste.
[ And then he smiles once more, a smile that is still slightly weighed down but no less genuine. ]
no subject
It is only a brief glance, but she does see the troubled expression on his face. The one that speaks of a weight he bares but insists it is not hard to bare on his own. A similar weight is shared between her and her sister. How he thinks he he should continue to toil on his own is something that she far from understands. Perhaps he will meet her halfway, then, in a manner of speaking. ]
Caring for one I see as a friend--nay, important to me--is far from a responsibility. [ She shakes her head. ] Isghard took us in when none would. You and Haurchefant stood by our characters when others dismissed it. You would insist on it not being a debt to be repaid. Instead, I insist that comrades should care for one another in all things. Not simply the battlefield or the floor of politics.
I'll need to find this necessary paperwork then... as Moogles aren't known for their patience. Despite the fact they laze about fairly often. Although, I do have one condition for our very formal trip.
[ Alkaid pushes herself to stand. She walks the few steps needed to come around the table in order to stand beside him. He's already insisted that he is well and needs no further aid in healing. Thus, she decides to propose something a bit closer to her heart. One that might further say what it is she aims to say without speaking the words.
She leans forward slightly, just enough so others might not hear. The black strands of her chin length hair push forward, their ends in a lovely pink. A small smile touches her face to return the one on his face. ]
If our meetings intend to be informal such as this... [ a hint of pink touches her cheeks. ] I ask that you don't use 'Mistress' or even 'Alkaid.'
Instead... K'lantaa. [ Her mint eyes dash to the side for the briefest of moments before looking back at his sky blue ones. The ping rises more in her cheeks. ] After all, it is my real name.
no subject
Combining this with the unanticipated attack and now Alkaid's- K'lantaa's clear upset, his normally clear thoughts now resemble a churning storm.
Truthfully, he sees nothing childish about what she has related to him. She is a healer, and he can only imagine the natural inclination to desire to heal when there are those in need. If it were feasible for him to do so, he would grant her the position of Ishgard's principal healer, but he knows full well that her duties as the Warrior of Light more than likely will call her away from Ishgard. At least, he sees that doing so would be of no use or good, and so he refrains.
His eyebrows lift in surprise when she states that not only does she consider him a friend, she considers him important to her. Of course, he could say the same for her, and more besides, but he never dared to think that she might view him in such a light. A friend, perhaps, but beyond welcoming her to the place he calls home and making her an honored guest, he has tried to keep himself from having any loftier thoughts than that. How well he has succeeded remains to be seen. ]
You have rendered me speechless with your words, Alkaid. I can hardly claim to speak for Haurchefant, as he would surely have words to say of his own, if he were present with us, but taking you in and standing by you was, and still remains, the right thing to do.
But I can wholeheartedly agree that friends and comrades should be ready to offer care and support, no matter the circumstance. [ His smile widens, knowing that his apologies and attempts to forestall her so as not to add more troubles to her already existing ones now seem just a little bit superfluous.
And if he could be completely forthcoming, he would state that he wishes he could be so fortunate as to be the one who cares for her and her needs, but again, that is something he can scarcely bring himself to hope for.
He watches her rise and move to stand beside him, eyes fixed on her as she makes her move. ]
Only one? [ His eyebrows raise, mostly in jest, but with a hint of seriousness as well. ] You may make as many conditions as you like, of course, and I will do my best to comply.
[ But when he hears what she has to say, this time, he truly does appear surprised by her request. He wished that they might begin to become better acquainted with each other, to move past a superficial sort of relationship, and this request that he address her by her real name both surprises and warms him all at once.
... So much for his resolve to not allow his hopes to grow. It seems that they have already begun to do so, and there is no calling them back now even if he wished to. ]
I believe, K'lantaa- [ The name feels strange on his tongue, and yet he has already decided that he likes it. He chooses to focus on that, and not on the immediate thought that perhaps she did not intend for him to use her name so soon after learning it. Perhaps she meant he should use it under other circumstances. His fingers fold together and he gives them a halfway nervous twist even as he continues: ] I believe that this request of yours is one I shall very gladly grant.
[ And where his smiles were somewhat reserved and held in check but no less genuine, now a smile breaks through that is wider than all the rest, and fonder too. ]
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Which, oddly enough, she had the intentions of staying at the Forgotten Knight to meet with her sister. Sharing an inn room is far from uncommon, and, as their duties take them across Eorzea and away from one another? It becomes a way to reconnect and share what is going on with one another. They mayhap have a tendency to share things amongst one another before the rest of the Scions... ]
Haurchefant had many words for many things; most of all for Ishgard and seeing her rise above the Dragonsong War. Regardless of it being right or not? Thisru and I both owe you and your people much. We have recently found a few of the the Scions, and without the shelter you all provided us? I doubt we would find the rest.
[ Minfilia though... that is certainly a subject to discuss with her fellow Scions before much else.
Her forced smile becomes a bit gentler at seeing his surprise. She wonders if he had always believed Alkaid to be her name. It's far from traditional Miq'toe standards, let alone ones thought even in an abstract way. In fact, outside their family home? Only her sister knows her true name. She's grown used to others referring to her as her handle. Though, she won't deny the butterflies and weightless feeling it gives her to hear her name in his voice.
Her ears perk up slightly as she fights to keep her smile from widening as she settles more on the idea of him using her name more. Her tail, however, does betray the careful mantle of Warrior of Light. It sways side to side without her notice. Yes, she decides, she'd very much like to hear him say it more. Perhaps even the most informal version of her name--although he may not wish to see her in such a close manner.
Her head tilts. ]
If the Lord Commander wishes for more conditions, I can certainly think of a few more. [ Alkaid's gaze slides to the corner of her eyes as she pretends to think. Her arms cross, her lips pressed together, putting more of the charade on. ] Hmm... what else to ask Ser Ayermic the Blue for...?
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He cannot allow that to happen. He will not. That, more than anything else, is what drives him to move forward, even to ignore wounds given to him by those with a grudge. And he can hardly blame them, for he knows how things must appear from the outside. But now is hardly the time to begin sorting through his thoughts. ]
It hardly needs to be said, but he will be missed by all. [ He may not be able to claim particular closeness to the fallen of whom they speak, but any loss at all is significant. ] As for that, it is the least that I, and all others who call Ishgard home, can do. Of course, if there is ever anything more that you or your sister need, all you have to do is ask.
[ And in that same vein: ] Is there anything that I might do for you now? How are your accommodations? Your efforts must be tiring; do you have all the sustenance that you require?
[ If not, then he shall do his best to ensure that she and K'thisru have everything they need, even if he has to dispatch his own personal staff to see to the two of them.
As for the matter of her name, he accepted the name she gave him in their initial introductions. Of course, it does not fit with the traditional names of other Miqo'te, but he never thought to question it. Still, now that he knows her true name, he finds that he likes it even more than the name she uses most often. ]
Consider me at your disposal, Mistress. K'lantaa. [ That will be a particularly difficult habit to break, but he shall manage well enough.
To punctuate his statement, he even gives her a small bow, as if to further indicate that if she has any other requests to make of him, he will happily oblige. ] Anything that you ask of me, I will do my best to fulfill.
[ He feels as though that is a very small measure of payment for everything she and her sister have done thus far, but it is a start. ]
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Her tail still sways side to side even as her jesting demeanor changes. A hand raises from being crossed to gesture shortly to the inn they sit in. ]
We decided Tataru and Alphinaud should stay with House Fortemps and we took to the inn here. We're used to staying in various inns and taverns...
[ They may have been taken in as wards of the Great House, but she would not take a room. Not when it would cause more strife at the time.
She smiles gently at his self correction of her name. Habits and manners can't be broken in an evening. And so, she leans forward and places her hand onto of his. While she may be the one of the two who is more reserved in running into battle and danger head first? She is forward in her own right.
If she cannot speak what she wishes to say, then she hopes small actions might say it instead. Now, if he can see and listen to the unsaid is something yet to be seen. ]
What if I had asked to see Ser Aymeric's favorite place in the whole of Ishgard?
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And truthfully, he wishes to ensure that both sisters are as comfortable as they can be, but he finds his thoughts traveling more often to Alkaid... K'lantaa, as he is attempting to think of her. ]
I see. From my reckoning, that was a sound decision, and yet if either you or your sister grow ill at ease with finding your repose in the inn, it will not be difficult to find rooms for you. [ He already knows that he would gladly offer up his own house for the two of them to use.
When she leans in and rests her hand against his, his eyebrows shoot up and a surprised expression crosses his face. To be this close to her, to have her hand resting atop his, is more than he could have ever hoped for. And he has hoped for such closeness, even if he knew he would never dare to ask for it.
Exactly when his affection for her became clear to him, even he is not entirely certain. What he does know is that he cares for her, and whenever she is nearby, regardless of what duties and tasks lie before him, he thinks of her more often than not.
Could it be possible that she does the same for him? He believes that he sees a look in her eyes that could be translated into a positive affirmation, but again, does he dare to hope for something that is not his right to possess?
Nevertheless, he keeps his gaze fixed on hers, not wanting to look away for even one second. ]
I should say that Ser Aymeric would be delighted to show you to his favored place within Ishgard. [ He can hardly keep the mirth out his face and voice, even as notes pointing to the love he has for Ishgard and the people make themselves known. ]
Would you be inclined to follow me? [ He wonders, not for the first time, about what, if any, repercussions she might experience as a result of being seen with him in this way.
But at this time, even though reason says he should comport himself in a way fitting for the Lord Commander, he chooses not to listen to reason. He shifts his hand so that hers is resting in his, and he carefully lifts their joined hands together so that he might plant a light kiss on the back of her hand.
There is more that he would like to do, but it seems as though he should work up to that first. ]
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Well, she will gladly meet him halfway then and pull him alongside her however far he is willing to go.
If that is what he wishes, of course. ]
I'll need to speak with K'thisru on the matter. She might tire of the inn's feather beds.
[ Which is to say -- in so many words -- that the beds in the Forgotten Knight are far from the most comfortable. The rooms also tend to be dim and cold. However, it is what they have been given, and she is not one to speak ill of that which is given freely. Nor would she expect or demand Aymeric give anything to them after all he has done for them already.
She had hoped the meaning of saying his name in a certain way would show the implications of what she meant. She wished to see more of him without his titles or duties; a place that he as himself holds dear regardless of office. Still, the gentle jest he gives is one she will take instead. She would have continued the the notion if what words might have come from her did not freeze in that moment.
Her eyes widen at his gesture, finding herself suddenly rooted to the floor. It feel as if every inch of her has frozen except the ability for her eyes to move to their hands. Hers rests in his. She does not pull away or even make a show that his gesture is unwanted. The butterflies and nerves come to a freeze as well. In that brief moment she's taken back to when they first met.
Of course, she was intent on the discussion of a potential alliance between Ishgard and Eorzea, and Alphinaud carried on his duties of attempting to sway the behemoth of a nation to their point of view. If she were to be honest? She hardly remembers the exact words or what her sister had said. She had been completely taken aback by the Lord Commander the moment he first spoke and remained such a way until the knight had interrupted due to the followers of Ysayle striking the caravan. Now, she finds herself in a similar situation. The noise of the inn has faded away and the potential prying eyes and mumbles have ceased to reach her senses. All of her attention, in every sense, is singled on the man in front of her.
Something reminds her that he will need a proper answer. Her gaze not leaving his own and her hand curling around his is hardly an answer or inclination. Alkaid swallows the sudden lump in her throat and she nods slowly. ]
... Yes, of course. [ Anywhere, she nearly says. Some part of her mind must realize that certain things must remain unsaid, for the thought never leaves her mind. ] I would be very inclined.
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Now that he has become more acquainted with her, and dare he say, even fond of her, his desire to lower even more of his walls has grown stronger, and yet he finds himself hesitating even so. His actions have always had the potential to bring harm to others, and that is the last thing that he wants.
Even so, he intends to at least attempt bridging the self-imposed gap that he has made between himself and other people. He has always had allies, of course, but in moments of reflection, it seems to him that he has always kept people at arms' length, even when he does let them into his life a little. It does make for somewhat of a lonely time, even if it still feels to him like a necessity. ]
Yes, and please let me know how she responds. It is no trouble at all to make other arrangements for you both.
[ As for her efforts to see the man beneath the titles and responsibilities, part of him did recognize the attempt for what it was and appreciates it. But for as long as he can remember, ever since he set his sights on doing what he could for his nation and his people, he has always put duty first and his personal desires second. Or fifth, depending on the need.
He would maintain that he has not lost sight of who he is, but being the Lord Commander of the Temple Knights is a major part of his identity, and he would also be the first to admit that at times, it is difficult to separate that person from the young man whose chief desire has been to serve where he can and protect those who require it. The two sides of him seem so closely intertwined that perhaps there is no separating them.
But he halts his musings because there is someone who deserves his full attention, and he means to give it to her without reservation.
He too can recall their first meeting, and how he was compelled to decline the request put before him because that was the response he was told to give by the Holy See and those in higher authority than him. It is easy for him to imagine that he did not make many friends that day, but he felt as though he had no other choice.
Now, however, he does have a choice, and at the moment, his choice is to let his heart lead. ]
If I might say this, I am glad that we have had this opportunity to meet and converse in relative private. [ Is it too soon for him to make this proclamation? His smile remains where it is, but a hint of apprehension creeps into his eyes as he considers what actions he should take. But he will never know unless he takes the chance, because who knows when they might have an opportunity such as this again?
And of course, this meeting is not wholly private given where they are, but he imagines that a place like the Forgotten Knight has enough hustle and bustle to allow for a somewhat private conversation. Still, he is not naive enough to believe that people have noticed both of their presences here. ]
But if you are ready, I know just the place that I would be honored, even delighted, to show you.
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[ She is certain that if she misses the intial meeting with her sister that Thisru will more than understand. Especially when it is mention that she spoke with the Lord Commander. Oh, she is certain a litany of questions will follow. Ah, well. Such is the way when a younger sister keeps insisting that the elder does what she can to find some form of companion outside their small working group.
While she has not served as Hydalaen's Champion as long as he as Lord Commander, Alkaid must wonder herself how much of who she is is one in the same as the Warrior of Light. Is it who she was as a natural person that grew her to the role? Or, has the role eaten more and more of the person who bears the name of K'lantaa? It feels neigh impossible to tell as they become more and more embroiled into the wars of dragons and men and then Eorzea and the Empire.
Mayhap this conversation with Aymeric might shed some needed light on her inner questions.
His statement makes a certain light come to her eyes and her tail sway more. Truly? A part of her, while perhaps childish, cannot but hope for the idea that it is more to share time with her than merely because he wishes to hear more of reports of Moogles and dragons. She is inclined to believe so as neither have taken their hand from the other...
She nods, swallowing the sudden lump of emotions caught inside her. ]
And if I am allowed to be equally as forward... I have hoped for a meeting like this for some time. [ Minus, of course, her uncharacteristic emotional moment. Not that she is nearly as guarded or stoic as he. She simply tries to project the put together perfect Warrior of Light as much as possible. ] Please, let the way.
[ She would not lie - if asked - that the prospect of going somewhere more private is exceedingly desired. Alkaid takes a step back to allow him to stand and quite literally tower over her. Her hand, however, stays in his with no intention or sign of removing it. Her other raises to readjust the hood atop her head. No doubt where they are going is outside. ]
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AYYYYY comment collapse
ayyy and our pattern of ridiculously long tags & threads continues
i am GRATEFUL FOR IT
<33
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