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

[hobbitholmes]

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

Comments

⚜ post 3.3 — revenge of the horde.

[shepherdtostars]

❄️ starlight celebration.

[shepherdtostars]

[thewayforpeace]

[ The Starlight Celebration has begun in full, and a celebratory mood has come upon Ishgard in full force. There has not been much to celebrate of late, but even when war was stirring and crashing upon the city and its people, they still made time for this particular tradition.

This time, Aymeric has plans of his own, and while he intends to take part in the customary traditions of the celebration, there is something else that is drawing his attention, something that he has been preparing for some time now and has been attempting to work up the bravery to do it. It seems strange that he can stare down dragons and other threats without showing too much outward fear, but now when it comes to what he wishes to do, he finds himself more than a little afraid.

Still, he cannot know what will happen if he does not act, and so, as usual, he moves forward to the designated place where he and Alkaid (K'lantaa, as he has begun to think of her) are supposed to meet.

For the occasion, he has shed his customary heavy armor, opting instead for robes accented with his usual colors and the sigils of his house. Concealed somewhere on his person are two very special gifts which he means to reveal when he feels the time is right.

For now, though, he has seeing Alkaid and participating in the celebration with her to look forward to.

... Now if only he can find her. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ The holiday, of course, is celebrated Eorzea over. However, Alkaid had no true idea of how it originated in Corethas. Indeed, she had no idea how serious the Ishgardians took it until she heard the excitement through the city. Not only was this Starlight Celebration, but it was also the first in an era of peace. Nidhogg was no more and the Dravanians tentatively placed their trust back into man.

She had already decided to make a present for the certain Lord Commander who had her heart. Yet, seeing how special this Starlight Celebration was to be... she decided to place even more care and effort into it.

Of course, getting to the designated meeting place is easier said than done when you are one of the Saviors of Ishgard. Many people step in her path and wish her the season. It would be rude to refuse them, and so she makes certain to treat each of them with respect with her sister. She finally manages to slip away and quickly head to the place she is meant to meet Aymeric.

Alkaid tugs her white skirt up gently and shifts the red over robes to look as presentable as possible. A matching red hat covers her ears from the cold. She finally moves to call out to him as she sees him, but finds herself breathless for a moment. It is the first time she has seen him in dress garb outside of his armor. Oh, she's seen him in less formal clothes of course, but this is the first time she's seen him dressed such as this.

Her tail tucks to her side as she slowly approaches him, hands slipping back into the fur warmer she has concealed his gift in. She smiles brightly at him, even if a shy expression has still taken her face. ]

I'm sorry for being late, Ser. [ As they are in public. ] Apparently all wish to see my sister and I as celebrities, and as such... well, everyone has their wishes for the season.

[thewayforpeace]

[ He might not be one of the celebrated Saviors of Ishgard, but nevertheless, people do stop him along his way to give him their well wishes and to also offer their best wishes for the season. Truthfully, he is merely relieved that peace has finally come to them, and so he chooses not to remember how many only had looks of disdain and disparaging comments for him not all that long ago. This celebration is a special time, and as far as he is concerned, any ill feelings or thoughts have no place here.

As he makes his way along, winding through the throngs of people, he looks for any sign of the person with whom he is supposed to meet. But given the sheer numbers of people who are milling about the city, he imagines that he won't see her until he reaches their agreed upon meeting point.

Upon his arrival, he casts a look around hoping to spot her, but it seems as though she has yet to arrive herself. He is in no particular hurry, so he has no issues with standing in a slightly out of the way spot to wait for her.

If she is breathless upon spotting him there waiting, then he is completely lacking in breath, because she truly looks beautiful to him. He knows she will always look that way, regardless of what she wears, but tonight she is practically glowing. A wide smile crosses his face when she makes her approach and offers an apology. ]

It is quite understandable, and I have not been waiting long. After all that you have done, I am certain that all of Ishgard wants to offer their thanks and well wishes to you and your sister this evening. And, of course, I include myself in that.

[ He would pull her in for a hug, but they are in public, as she has already clearly realized, so instead, he holds out a hand, intending to give her a formal yet no less genuine thank you by way of a handshake. It does not convey everything he wishes to say, but it is a start. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ Alkaid smiles sweetly in return, pulling one hand from the fur muff and taking his. Her hand is warm and her fingers brush on the inside of his wrist. Just as a sign to show that she wishes to say and do. Though, she has more concern for his public image than her own. He is the one who has to remain in Ishgard even once she is called off to whatever whims the Scions are in need of. ]

I do wish all of Isghard would allow me a moment or two to myself! [ Her tail bristles slightly in a playful manner. ] How do you find yourself this evening, Lord Commander?

[ Her mint eyes move to look at the sight in front of them. All sorts of manner of people mingling for the festivities in the decorated area. The hat upon her head shifts slightly as her ears twitch underneath it. ]

Even Gridania is not as decorated as Ishgard. [ The comment is soft and almost meant to be to herself. ] I have never seen a Starlight Celebration so festive...

[thewayforpeace]

[ A shiver travels up from the base of his spine when she takes hold of his hand, followed by another as her fingers brush against his wrist. Truthfully, he would cast aside his public image if it meant having moments like these with her, but then again, Lucia might very well have his head if he did do something so seemingly foolish. ]

Well, if that is what you wish, then the two of us could retreat once more to the manor, although I would hate to take you away from the celebration.

[ His smile turns into a more gentle one then, because he will always desire to meet her needs before his own. ]

Out of all of us, you and your sister deserve a moment's peace. [ More than a moment, if he could ensure that no one bothered them. ] And I am well, to answer your question. [ How could he be anything but, when all has finally been set to rights and the process of adjusting to a new era of peace can finally begin? ]

Here in Ishgard, this celebration has a very special significance, and so very little effort is spared in preparing the city for the occasion.

[shepherdtostars]

[ Lucia may very well shake her head at such antics. Although, it is fairly obvious to her and Alkaid's sister that the two are very deeply in love. Maybe a moment of shedding the mantle in front of others would be welcomed... at the right time. As it stands, she does not move to let go of his hand. ]

Something tells me that the Warrior of Light and the Lord Commander of the Temple Knights suddenly disappearing might cause a few heads to turn.

[ Which, in so many words, is to say that she would not mind it either way. ]

I doubt we will see very many of those moments. [ Something is already happening elsewhere, that much she is certain of. Something that will call her away from Ishgard and the man she cannot take her eyes off of. almost, as if, she were afraid he might disappear if she looks away. ] I am glad... and, have you heard of Estinien?

[ Small talk, chit chat, all that is to be expected in public. ]

Has it always been like this? Even during the war?

[thewayforpeace]

[ 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. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ He will never leave his mantle of Lord Commander behind. Just as she can never truly leave the mantle of helping those around her behind. It is a complicated web to weave, but she will not abandon him simply because it is complicated. Perhaps that is a part of why she remains holding his hand even though their pleasantries of formality would dictate otherwise. ]


I would say it is all the more reason to disturb me. Sometimes we have to make these moments instead of waiting for the whims of fate to grant us them. [ Her gaze shifts back to him with a small smile. She means their private moments, not the ones bound to happen due to their respected duties.

A nod is given to his report on Estinien. She doubts she may see much of the dragoon in the future, but, she would still wish him well. His life is free of bloodshed and endless war. The Azure Dragoon deserves to see as much of the new life Ishgard has as all of them. ]

The idea of a small Lord Commander looking forward to presents from the Saint is rather adorable.

[ A mischievous glint takes her eyes then. While her sister is much more obvious of troublemaking of the two? One can see how she quietly is in her own right. Once they can look past her and the mantle she wears.

Alkaid spins then. Her hand moves from his to rest on his upper arm as she comes to a stop by his side. A tilt of her head and a playful sway of her tail might give a bit of her underlying intentions away. ]

On the note of the Starlight Celebration being such a sacred notion to all Ishgardians? I believe there to be none more suited to the task of escorting a Warrior of Light through the way his people celebrate it than the Lord Commander himself.

[ And... she rather wishes to give him his present with as few eyes on them as possible. ]

[shepherdtostars]

( cont )

[ Alkaid watches his expression closely as he thinks back to the days when he was much younger. There's a desire inside her heart to help make his home as lively as it once was. Of course, it would be different, as they are not his parents. If she is to be his lady-wife? She will do her utmost to help the House that raised the man she has utterly fallen in love with.

The smile on her own face doesn't quite reach the warmth his does, despite how much she tries. Her hand slowly slips from his as the head maid arrives to escort her to the familiar bath. It isn't until she is far from ear and eye-sight that her gaze drops to the floor and her ears press to her head. Try as she might? She cannot seem to shake the pang of disappointment in her heart.

Once in the bathroom and trying to work around the prying eyes of the head maid (as she is certain the elder Elezen already knows of their engagement), she hails to her sister. A brief explanation is given that Aymeric would like the pair of them for dinner, and that once she is ready, she should make her way to the Manor Borel. She notes the tone in her sister's voice and has the feeling that perhaps not all has gone well. Alkaid shakes her head and de-dresses from her several layers and gently setting her engagement ring on top of the clothes. Then, she slides into the warm bath and sinks into the water. ]

[thewayforpeace]

[ When they part ways, even if it is only temporary, he knows he already misses her presence, although it is only walls that separates them. But there is nothing for it at the moment, and soon enough, if everything he has planned goes... well, according to plan, they shall join each other again.

In the meantime, K'thisru has a brief conversation with her sister, but even as they exchange words, her heart is not in it, and she is certain that Alkaid can tell. But perhaps a dinner with her sister and Aymeric will help bolster her spirits. So naturally, she agrees and prepares to get ready.

Back at the manor, Aymeric is taking some steps of his own, namely looking down the corridor to ensure that neither the maid nor the steward are approaching. When he determines that all is clear, he makes his way towards where he knows the maid would have brought Alkaid for her bath.

He hesitates at the door, but after a moment's pause, raises a hand to knock upon it. It may well be his house, but he has not completely lost his head or his sense of manners. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ Alkaid can certainly tell all is not well with her sister, and plans to investigate once K'thisru has joined them. Her mind goes to wondering what might be wrong--who or what might have upset her. The Starlight Celebration should be opposite of upset...

Her ears twitch at the sound of the knock. She had been wrapped up in her thoughts and hadn't noticed the footsteps. Her head raises with her ears raised again, hands moving to hold onto the edge of the tub.

Maybe the maid forgot something? ]

...Yes?

[thewayforpeace]

[ For the moment, K'thisru is still some distance away from Aymeric's home, and even as she makes her way there, part of her is thinking that she should just return to the inn, because she may not be the best company after the conversation she's just had. But she already told Alkaid she would join them, so she keeps going on her way.

Meanwhile, Aymeric hesitates at the door, wondering if he really ought to go through with this. But those few seconds of hesitation feel too long as it is, so he just decides to take the plunge.

Certain that she'll recognize his voice without introduction, he says: ] Apologies for the interruption, but I- Well, I wondered if I might... If I might sit beside you while you have your bath.

[ There is another brief pause, and then he adds: ] I will be sure to leave when you are ready to also leave.

[ She can't see him through the door, of course, but there is a tell-tale tinge of red forming at the base of his neck in response to this seemingly bold request. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ The feline ears raise from her head slightly, briefly sinking down into the water with a look of confusion crossing her eyes. Part of her nearly jumps at the idea, but she is quick to temper the surge of excitement. She need not make him feel anymore awkward than her certainly already is.

How should she say her answer while biking back her excitement? ]

Of course, i-if that is what you'd like to do.

[ She sinks slightly more in the tub, just enough so merely her eyes and up are visible over the arms resting on the side of the tub. Her cheeks are flushed red as her tail sways under the water. ]

[thewayforpeace]

[ The slight hesitation, although it is barely significant, makes him wonder if perhaps this was a wrong supposition on his part. Perhaps she does not wish for his company while she bathes, and it was too forward of him to think that she might.

If you would rather have quiet while you bathe, I shall withdraw, of course. I merely thought that I would inquire, but if you are well and have everything you need, then I will see you at dinner.

[ Once he has found a way to settle his now very unsettled nerves. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ Her ears twitch at the end at his reply, given they already stand on end. ]

N-no! Please, I don't mind. [ She can feel her cheeks flush hotter. Why does she feel so shy when she was the one that originally posed the idea? Alkaid inhales and swallows her nerves. ] After all, we had decided on it already...

[ Though, now she feels as if she has over stepped by bringing their earlier conversation up. She presses her lower face to her arms, eyes on the door as she waits. Her ears lower slightly and her tail curls under the water as she waits. ]

❄️ starlight celebration.

[crystallinedreams]

[elpides]

[ K'thisru is not one to shy away from festivities, and the Starlight Celebration is no exception. For the occasion, she has donned her best festive attire, ready for an evening that, at least for the people of Ishgard, is long deserved. They can finally have a celebration without war looming over them, and because this is such a momentous time, she means to celebrate alongside them as much as she can.

As for her sister Alkaid, she knows there is one person in particular that she wishes to celebrate with, and so it's with a fond yet knowing smile that she waves goodbye to her as they temporarily part ways. She is certain that her sister has been looking forward to meeting a certain Lord Commander all day, and now that the time is here, her excitement might as well be overflowing.

K'thisru's steps lead her all around the decorated area, stopping to say hello to Ishgard's citizens along the way. She has no clear destination in mind, just mingling with the crowd and getting swept up in the festive spirit.

It isn't hard to do, considering all of Ishgard is out in force, but as she makes her way through the crowd, she spots a flash of something almost familiar. It could be she's only seeing things, of course, because she's only met someone wearing a hood like that once, and only briefly. Tilting her head, she tries to peer into the crowd to see if she can spot them, but it seems to her that she must have been imagining it. That, or it was merely a coincidence.

She takes one step and is promptly greeted by some happy and grateful Ishgardians, and she spends a few minutes conversing with them, because, well, with her sister occupied, she has nothing else to do but mingle and talk with the locals. ]

[crystallinedreams]

[ Frustrating -- so incredibly frustrating.

The needs are becoming dire. He needs to contact the Warriors of Light. They must be made aware of what is to come and how to forestall it. He must make them see -- make them hear him. He desperately tries again to call into the void of time and space. However, it is not an exact science, and what might be for him is certainly not when for them. However, the Calling must be a last resort.

A resort he very well may need to turn to as things continue to spiral further downwards.

For now, he relies on the method of projection. It taxes him greatly and demands a stress on the Tower's systems itself. No matter. Somethings are worth the price, even if the younger of the Warriors disagrees.

He finds himself amongst the celebration and cheer. A few turns of his head and he realizes exactly what the celebration is. The Starlight Celebration. How many years has it been since he's gazed upon it? How many celebrations had he wasted away in books and studies only to realize that one day it would no longer matter? The urgency of his quest has simmered if only long enough for him to stand there -- neigh a shade -- and watch those that mingle in Isghard.

When exactly has his projection arrived?

A familiar sense falls upon him then. It takes a moment for him to realize what it is. Cold. Not the bitter biting kind. Merely, the sort that nips at ones fingers and toes to remind one that the sun has gone away. His head tilts up to stare at the sky and a hand extends out to catch what he will certainly not be able to catch.

Snow.

How ...long has it been since he has seen snow, or, felt it for that matter? So very, very long now. A younger man in another time and another place. One rushing off to be a hero as he had read in the stories of eld. Now, he is an old man, reaching desperately for those heroes to perform their miracles at his behest. ]

[elpides]

[ For her part, K'thisru remains unaware of anyone's frustration, simply because none who are in attendance at the celebration are feeling anything but sheer joy and happiness, but also relief that the long war has finally ended. She mingles with the crowd, stopping whenever she is approached, because so many hail her and Alkaid as Ishgard's saviors, although she maintains that they only did what was the right thing to do.

Finally, a reprieve comes, and K'thisru finds herself more or less free to wander about unchecked. It isn't that she is restless, exactly, but she does find herself wanting a moment to herself. Still, people will wonder if both of the Warriors of Light disappear, and so she refrains from wandering too far.

It is while her steps meander around that she chances to pass by someone standing by himself with his head tilted upwards and one hand extended as if to catch snowflakes.

She thinks nothing of it, except then she realizes the pattern of his hood is familiar. Taking a second look, followed by another, she finally recognizes who this is. Well, "recognizes" may not be the right word, as she barely knows him, but the hood and that hand of his are all too telling. ]

So, you've come again. [ She takes a few steps so that she's standing next to him, a curious look on her face. ]

[crystallinedreams]

[ He pauses as the familiar voice hits his ears. Surely, he must be losing something of his touch in his older years for not hearing her arrive sooner. That, or, the projection magicks are not doing well enough. His crystalline hand closes and he turns to look at the hero who has noticed him. It hardly is a surprise. After all, her sister would have no idea who he is.

Not that K'thisru herself knows beyond the vague details. ]

Yes, it would seem so. [ He turns his head to cast his gaze upon Ishgard once more and then down to her. Perhaps she can feel his calculating and yet gentle gaze from beneath the hood. ] Too early yet again it would seem...

You seem to be in fairer spirits than last we met, my friend. All is well in Ishgard?

[elpides]

One day, I hope to actually know what you are about and what you're trying to do. [ Because right now, she can only guess. He is looking for something, or so it seems, or someone, but he can't or won't tell her who or what. ]

Too early for what? [ She has thought about this when she has found herself with a spare moment. ] You're looking for something, but however you're doing your searching, you keep coming too soon.

[ She doesn't know what his goals are or how he's getting around, but she's trying to figure some things out. ]

Well, look around. [ She smiles widely and looks around them. ] The Starlight Celebration is going on, but more than that, the city is actually peaceful for once. The war is finally over.

[ That means more to the people of Ishgard, who have been at war for so long, but it still makes K'thisru beyond happy. ]

[crystallinedreams]

You will. I promise you that.

[ There will be the time when finally things align as they need to. She will be ready to see the daunting task he must place before her to save their star. Yet, certain things are unknown to her. People, places, deeds undone. He cannot divulge and ask of her what must be done yet. The fault lies with him. If he was more skilled at this magick than she would not need to know him so early in her point of view.

Yet, this must be the safer option than the Calling. It must be used as a last resort. ]

I am searching for you and your sister, my friend. The Warriors of Light. However, there are tales and deeds you yet must live and do. Time is a... fickle thing. Full well do I keep meaning to contact you in your future. And yet, fate has seemingly decided I must continue to find you in the wake of the Dragonsong War.

[ He pauses then at her answer. His head turns back to look the way they had come. Perhaps she can feel his gaze intently beneath his hood at the decorations and the people. It is not just the holiday they celebrate, but as she quickly says, the end of the war. So, Nidhogg is defeated then. He is not as early as he had thought, but still yet too early to divulge information to her. ]

The end of the war... peace.

[ It is a stunning sight to see. One he is certain he may never experience. ]

[elpides]

And I'll hold you to that. [ To whatever end, whether good or bad. She can't help but wonder if the knowledge that he has and must withhold from her is something less than pleasant. He's been so mysterious and vague that she has already begun to think that that must be the case.

But whatever it is, she knows she and her sister will stare it down just as they have with every other challenge that's come their way. It might test their will and their strength, but that isn't really anything they aren't used to. ]

And again, you only make me more curious. [ She tilts her head to one side, surveying him, or rather, what she can see of him, given the hood and drapery that he wears.

But it seems as though there's nothing she can do about any of this at the present, and there is even less that he is willing to tell her, so she decides to focus on the celebration and things she can control.

She doesn't even attempt to hide the happiness she feels for the Ishgardians and that she and her sister are here to see all this unfold. ]

Can you walk with me, or will that interfere with your- [ She waves a hand at his projection. ] Whatever it is you call it.