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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
no subject
[ There is no doubt in his mind that Aymeric has seen his time of darker feelings as of late. It could not have been an easy decision to end the life of his father. Nor were the decisions afterwards easier. Perhaps, then, it should be no surprise that he grew closer to the Warriors of Light in that time.
Estinien watches the emotions dance around the face of his dearest--perhaps only--friend. While not clear to others who do not know him as well? He can tell how upset Aymeric is. The temporary parting between him and his betrothed must be eating at him more than he would admit to even himself.
The dragoon sits proper in case the visitor is one of state importance. The Stewart eyes them both before sighing and stepping to the side. A moment later a moogle with a carrier hat and bag arrives. ]
...a moogle?
[ The moogle turns his head and bristles his wings. ] What's that with a moogle, kupo!? We moogles at Mognet strive to be the best couriers to Eorzea and beyond!
[ Estinien turns to look at Aymeric with his eyes wide.
A moogle mail delivery service.
What is this world coming to? ]
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[ But his friend is not wrong in his suppositions either; Aymeric has had some dark days and darker nights of late, and they would have been darker still if not for a pair of sisters who brought peace and light along with them.
Perhaps that is one reason why he has thrown himself so wholeheartedly into his work once more. To have his days filled with reports and other responsibilities leaves him little time to think about how much he misses them, especially the one to whom he hopes to be married one day soon. And if, when he returns home and is completely exhausted after a long day, so much the better.
He does not wish for time to think too much, either while he is awake or when he is asleep and dreaming. ]
Have you not encountered moogles before, my friend? [ In spite of himself, he manages an amused smile, because he greatly likes the moogles, but he imagines that Estinien would be quite baffled by them. ] Friendly creatures, and useful as well.
[ He turns to give the delivery moogle a wide smile. ] I presume you come with a letter or other tidings. [ He expects it is some invitation or other missive of social importance. Of course he is obligated to come, because to do anything but would be seen as quite the social misstep. ]
no subject
Aye, I have. The moogles of Moghome were charged by Hraesvelgr. Had we not made contact with them, we would have never met with the great wrym. [ He turns his gaze back to the moogle. ] Being charged to protect the Zenith and being of a "mail network" are not the same.
Mognet has been based out of Gridania since the Seventh Umbral Calamity, kupo! We would be cousins to the moogles of Moghome. [ A paw raises in thought before the moogle's whole body sways side-to-side and a pleased sound echoes from it. Then, it glides over to the Lord Speaker and begins to ruffle around in its large bag. ] A letter for the Lord Speaker of the House of Lords, Lord Aymeric de Borel! Do all people in Ishgard have such long names, kupo?
Only those of nobility, the military, or of the Holy See. Ser Aymeric has the pleasure of listening to the other long named nobles debate about the laws of our city-state. [ He crosses his arms and smirks. ] He may yet garner more long titles.
[ The moogle spins the moment it pulls a letter from his bag, and wiggles inexcitement once more. ]
I'll make certain to remember, kupo! The other moogles implied more letters may come. [ With a nod, the Moogle extends the letter to Aymeric.
The letter itself seems as if it has certainly seen some amount of travel. While not damaged, the envelope has browned in ways. The envelope itself also does not seem to be of Eorzea. Instead of being addressed by a name, the front has a drawn image of the sigil of House Borel. On the other side, the envelope is sealed by a small amount of wax imprinted by a lily design. ]
no subject
At times, he wonders if there is more going on beneath his friend's placid expression, but he has decided that it is better for Estinien to decide on his own terms when to talk about certain subjects than if he pushed him to open up about things that might be troubling him. ]
I suppose they are not the same, but both involve no small measure of responsibility. [ At least, that is Aymeric's observation based on the brief exchange between Estinien and their moogle visitor. Truthfully, he still has a lot to learn about the doings of moogles and their history, and if he had ample time to devote to the subject, he would certainly endeavor to educate himself. ]
If it is easier for you, simply Aymeric will suffice. [ There is a time and place for the use of titles, but he sees no reason for that in this present moment. ] I certainly hope that I do not garner any further titles, or I will have to use even more ink than I already do when penning missives and signing documents.
[ The notion makes him smile and give an amused sort of laugh. ] More letters, you say?
[ He takes the offered letter, giving the envelope a careful looking over, and it is not until he sees the lil seal that he realizes just who has sent this to him. ]
I certainly hope that I shall receive more of these letters. [ But at the same time, he will not be waiting up for them, given the responsibilities of the one who sent said letter. Hoping for them, yes. Expecting their regular arrival? Not quite.
A thought occurs to him then, and he asks: ]
I imagine you must have quite the journey ahead of you, so with that in mind, do you require anything before you leave?
no subject
We intend to extend Mognet into Ishgard! Now that the city is apart of the Alliance, we have plenty of mail that we could deliver to and from! Although, the logistics are still being planned... Mognet is not just Moogles, after all! [ The postmoogle nods. ] I will make sure to keep an eye out for any letters addressed to you, kupo! The other Moogles were insistent that you were to be the recipient, even with no name or address...
I would imagine the one who sent it to him wishes it to remain anon. Or, at least, anon to those that may look upon it. Ser Aymeric handles rather covert and secret messages from time to time. [ He gives a knowing smirk. Their excursion into the Churning Mists to contact the dragons had been Aymeric's idea in the end. ] I am certain he will receive more of them.
[ The moogle nods, spinning in place as their customary movement. Then, it turns back to Aymeric. ] If you have a warm drink, that will do! I hadn't realized how cold Ishgard is...
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If that truly is your intention, then consider anything that I can do to assist at your disposal. Because I can only imagine how much of an added benefit having the post services available would be. [ With Ishgard now being open to the outside world once more, Aymeric is certain that it would be quite useful indeed to have the lines of communication open in such a way. Of course, they managed without the use of Moogles and Mognet, but then again, Ishgard was closed off for such a long time. He cannot help but feel that this is a step in the right direction for Ishgard and the people. ]
Ser Estinien would be correct in his suppositions. And I imagine that the one who sent it also is engaged in covert operations and would not have their actions compromised.
But yes, if a warm drink is what you require, then you shall have it. [ The steward is, as always, nearby and he makes his approach, sensing that Aymeric has need of him. ]
Would you see to procuring a warm drink for our friend here? He has quite a journey ahead of him.
[ The steward nods, offers a bow to the moogle, and before too many minutes have passed, returns with a hot drink in hand. He extends it to the moogle, before deciding that perhaps it might be easier if he set the drink on the nearest desk, feeling uncertain if the moogle's paws could safely hold said drink. At the very least, he thought that the moogle should decide for himself whether or not he could manage holding onto the offering. ]
no subject
The postmoogle nods. ] Once we are ready to set a permanent establishment, I will seek out your advice, kupo!
Ah, so soon, we might add "Postman" to your ever growing list of titles, Aymeric. [ A smug look passes his face at the notion. ] I am certain that some parties would find the notion quite amusing.
[ K'thisru, namely.
Estinien watches as the moogle flies over to the drink. A wiggle of his whole person is given in thanks before he lifts it to take a long drink. Estinien can do nothing but shake his head. It would seem moogles remain the same no matter where they hail from. ]
Hopefully you will here from us soon!
no subject
Well, I suppose that the more skills I have, the more useful I am. [ He offers a smile to the moogle and gives him a nod. ] I suppose that we might have some things that we can learn from each other.
[ He also finds taking lessons from a moogle amusing, but knowledge can be gained from all sorts. Having said that, he returns his attention to the letter that he received, and as he surveys it, he wonders if he ought to wait to read it. Estinien might be his old friend, but he still feels like he should continue playing the role of proper host. ]
Ah, I should have asked you as well, Estinien. Is there anything that you require as well?
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Shall I leave you to read your leter on your own--or would you prefer the company to regale the tales to?
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Oh, I most certainly would prefer to have company, even if I did not have a missive to read. You have been away from Ishgard for some time, so I am in no particular rush to end this conversation.
[ Of course, if Estinien says he has other places to be, then Aymeric will not detain him longer than necessary. ]
no subject
[ He idly wonders why their engagement has not been made public, but does not voice the question. The pair of them seem completely head over heels for one another--why would they not proclaim it loud enough to hear? Aymeric has always been one of a quiet man of personal affairs, yet, Estinien believes his best friend might burst at the seams if he does not dote on about it in some form. ]
Although, I would ask where she and her sister might yet be.
[ The letter, as Aymeric will find it, is most certainly Alkaid's penmanship. The paper has browned around the edges to merely show the fact that it has traveled quite far indeed. ]
[ The two following pages are indeed sketches that show a few places in Kugane.
However, once Aymeric shifts through the papers, he will find one more note tucked inside between the pages. It is gently places alongside the sketch of the market way. ]
[ The words are struck out several times as if Alkaid could not properly put what she wished to convey into words until the very end. The second letter is unsigned and unmarked, save for the water stains that decorate the bottom of the letter. Ones that may certainly resemble drops of tears. ]
no subject
[ And he trusts that Estinien will keep whatever he tells him to himself, not revealing the information to any who will listen.
But then he falls silent as he opens the letter and begins to read it. His expression remains as impassive as always, but as he reads, a smile slowly forms on his face, but there is a sort of longing in his expression as well. He can see the places she describes in his mind's eye, but oddly, knowing that those are places where she has walked only adds to the loneliness he feels but has yet to disclose to anyone.
But still, he smiles, even if it takes on a little sadness as he continues to read down the page until she closes the letter. And then, just as he is about to fold up the letter and turn his attentions back to Estinien, his eyes spot another smaller piece of paper tucked inside the larger pages.
His eyebrows gently lift as he pulls it out and begins to read the words written in Alkaid's neat hand. His movements are subtle, but as he reads how she spotted Ishgardians in Kugane and then goes on to say that she misses him, his shoulders drop and his head lowers, eyes momentarily sliding closed as his emotions begin to swirl.
It did not miss his notice that the page is dotted with what he is certain are teardrops. He places her letter and the shorter note down so that he does not inadvertently damage either piece as his fingers curl inward and his gaze lowers to look at his hands. He is all too aware that Estinien is still there looking on, but in this moment, he cannot hide behind the stoic mask that he so often wears.
He misses Alkaid more than he can put into words, and reading the words she wrote on the page has only amplified how keenly he feels their separation. After a moment, he raises his head once more, and he fixes Estinien with an apologetic smile. ]
My apologies. I- Well, I can hardly pretend that her words did not strike a chord. She is well, or at least she was at the time this letter was penned, and I remain grateful for that. It seems that their path has led them to Kugane, in Hingashi, across the Ruby Sea. I have heard of it, but my knowledge is superficial at best.
[ He knew of this, from the reports that they have received, but there is a difference between those dry, factual reports and Alkaid's letter, and it is no secret which one he prefers. ]
no subject
The sound of armor shifting catches his ear, and Estinien opens an eyes to gauge his friend. Ah, there it is. A sliver of what he is sure Aymeric truly feels below that stoic mask. He draws no attention to it and instead counts it as a quiet confirmation. The Lord Speaker most certainly misses the Warriors of Light--and one in particular. A shake of his head is given at the apology as well as a raised hand to brush the concern away. ]
Hm. The Far East indeed. [ The dragoon tilts his head as he ponders it over. If his mission takes him to the sisters? He will most certainly check upon them... if only for Aymeric's sake. ] 'Tis little surprise we know nothing of the state of the world far away. Ishgard has ever only been concerned of her own borders until recently.
The way of words implies that there is an Imperial force stationed within Kugane, as well as the Syndicate of Ul'dah. Therefore a city that works between the two forces as a sort of parlay. I can only imagine how well K'thisru handles the presence of the Empire.
[ A smirk touches his face then in amusement. ]
no subject
But such things cannot be, at least not at this present time, so he wills his thoughts to turn elsewhere. ]
I can hardly pretend that a part of me does not wish to travel there, even for a brief time, that I might see what they are seeing and speak with both of them again. But theirs is a covert mission, if I am understanding things correctly, and I will not jeopardize the success of said mission, no matter how much I wish to see them.
[ He knows the foolishness of such thoughts, and how he would potentially bring danger to them should he do what his heart wishes. ]
It is enough that I have this letter. I shall content myself with its contents.
[ And then he offers a smile to his friend. ] I am certain that she would charge full speed ahead to confront them if only she could. But I am also certain that her sister does much to call her back when her thoughts and desires run away from her.
[ He has seen examples of how the sisters complement each other and fit together as if they are two sides of the same coin. ]
But, my musings aside, what will you do now? [ He is sure that Estinien would rather not sit here and listen to his pensive wonderings about the two sisters. ]
no subject
Perhaps not yet.
The once-Azure Dragoon hardly knows the notion of family other than the blood oath between him and the man across from him. ]
Perhaps if you were to ask unofficially, your woman might find a way to bring you along. If you were to allow her. [ The statement is gentle and he truly means it in a kind way. ] I would imagine her thoughts go to you quite often.
[ A chuckle comes from him at the idea of K'thisru charging straight to the Empire's front door. She certainly would. ]
My trip to the Far East can be postponed till the morning. It would seem that you are in need of company more than I am in need of going to my next destination.
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As for Estinien's suggestion, Aymeric looks up with an expression suggesting surprise. ]
That she might spare some thought for me, I would not dispute, as my own travel to her just as often. But would she truly wish for me to come along? I certainly miss her presence, but perhaps if I were to join her, I would only be a distraction from her duties. Given the nature of what she does, I imagine she can ill afford to be distracted. Still, I would ask such a question of her, even if I expect to be rebuffed.
[ And, even as he says that, a fear arises that she might only say yes to his request out of obligation, and not because it is what she truly wants. ]
If you must go, I will not have it said that I detained you, Estinien.
[ He can hardly fathom the notion of being so incredibly selfish as to delay his friend, even if it is only until morning. ]
no subject
She sent a letter to you without the fanfare of being a Scion of the Seventh Dawn, Aymeric. I am certain she would wish you to accompany her. Do not tell me you are so thick skulled that you could not see that. [ He rolls his eyes slightly, looking away towards the window. ] It was clear to see even to me during our travels in the Churning Mists that her thoughts often drifted back to Ishgard. Mot certainly they drifted to you... which begs the question. When did the two of you begin your courtship?
[ Surely, despite all going on, Estinien would not have missed that.
A hand raises to dismiss the notion. ] Airships depart at all times. I can wait till the morrow.
[ He pauses as something brushes against his leg. The dragoon drops his gaze down to his legs to find the sight of a familiar feline. The old bugger still lives? What a stubborn cat. An eyebrow raises as the old Borel cat stares in return. One might think perhaps the two were having a silent conversation. However, Estinien has never truly gotten along with the family pet. ]
I would wonder if your affection for a Miqo'te is because of your feline companion, but, I rather doubt his friendliness would instill that in another.
[ The cat meows lowly as if to protest Estinien's presence all together. ]
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As for Estinien, Aymeric remains convinced that his brother is a good man and he can also uphold the hopes of people like Ysayle and the dragons just as well as he can. And of course, should he need it, he will be there to offer his support without hesitation. ]
She always intended to send letters when and if she is able, and I imagine that more may very well come should she find the opportunity. I have no doubt that she wishes I could join her, as I wish that I could as well, but we all understand our respective duties and that sometimes they must come before anything that we would wish or hope for. [ And he knows that his brother does not need to be reminded, as he is without a doubt aware of the need to do one's duty. ]
Ah, as for when our courtship began... Well... [ He cannot identify a specific point when it began, just that he knew he wished to have her in his life and to seek her hand, if she would give it. ] I imagine that the seeds were always there, beginning to take root. You will certainly think me too sentimental, but they did not truly begin to grow until the night of the Starlight Celebration, when I presented her with a ring and she consented to be my wife.
[ At Estinien's words saying that he can delay his departure, a grateful expression crosses Aymeric's face. ] Thank you, my old friend. I am, as always, grateful for your company.
[ And then his glance travels to where the old family cat brushes against Estinien's leg. He has to fight to forestall a smile, because he knows that the two have never seen eye to eye, a thing that gives him no small amount of amusement. ]
I imagine such a thought would amuse Alkaid greatly. [ He moves so that he might bend down and rub the cat between his ears as he knows he likes it. ] He might be prickly at times, but he has been a faithful companion nonetheless. I am quite fortunate to be surrounded by so many of those.
[ He inclines his head in Estinien's direction, to further underline the point that he is beyond grateful for the friendship he offers him, and the brotherly companionship that they have known over the years. ]
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Estinien holds back a roll of his eyes. A proposal at Starlight Celebration? Halone take him, for Aymeric has always been a romantic at heart. He truly proposed on that day? Perhaps the only thing more predictable would be to propose on the blasted day of love he wishes nothing to do with.
His gaze shoots back to Aymeric. ] Courtship begins before you ask her hand in marriage. Unless, that is to say, the pair of you simply dove in head first. By the Fury, Aymeric. How long did did it take you to think of proposing?
[ He expected to hear something along the lines of "I always knew I wished to, Estinien."
The old family pet mews loudly in protest at the presence of the dragoon. Estinien himself gives a shrug. He does not care ro win the favor of others. Including a bloody pet. ]
One might think you ought to find better fellows. Ones that, at least, might stand one another.
no subject
For a moment, Aymeric feels no small amount of embarrassment because of his choice to put forth a proposal. Perhaps it was not done as it should have, and Estinien's chastisement, if that is what it is, only adds to the uncertainty that he feels. He would not take it back, unless of course Alkaid expressed a desire to break their engagement, but he feels just a little bit foolish. ]
When you consider how often she is required to leave for adventures all across Eorzea, I found myself thinking that I did not wish to wait. The opportunity might not present itself again. And even if I had the opportunity to venture from Ishgard to wherever she might have gone, perhaps she would be too occupied to even speak with me.
[ His resolve remains, but still, he feels that perhaps he acted far too rashly. But he does not regret doing what he did, and if there was ever a moment for being rash, it was then. ]
Perhaps, Estinien, I ought to find you a young cat that might accompany you on your travels, one that you could raise as you see fit.
no subject
Perhaps I misunderstood how much the pair of you pined for one another before you begun your relationship. I had realized she was quite taken with you, but had not fathomed how taken by her you were. [ Perhaps the pair of them did not even need a courtship then. ] She did say yes, and thus, I would wager that your heart had picked the correct option in the moment.
[ Now, if only he had seen his own folly.
He eyes the feline as the old man settles in his owner's lap. ]
I rather doubt I am one that is well suited for any company. Let alone a traveling companion.
no subject
Still, he wishes to be clear on his understanding of his friend's thoughts and opinions. ]
That may be so, but as one who has been my friend for many long years, what do you believe? Have I acted rashly or have I made the correct choice?
[ At those next words, Aymeric huffs out a quiet laugh. ]
You may very well doubt that, but there must be a reason that the two of us have been friends for as long as we have. And I am certain that you have only to meet the right individual, whether of the feline kind or not.
[ Simply put, he would not see Estinien discount his chances so readily. Perhaps there still is someone out there who could be with the dragoon, prickly nature and all. ]
/wraps this one up!
[ His gaze drops back to the family cat. ]
Hm. Perhaps.
[ Or, perhaps, he had already missed his chance at a companion as Aymeric has found. There is no doubt he may eventually find those in which he offers his lance to and a cause to fight with. There is one person that springs to mind that could have filled that spot... but well, the time has passed for that and her soul gone to the aetheric sea.
Estinien still resolves to spend as much of the night as his friend is in need of. Aymeric fought to have him returned and he will not abandon his friend in a time of loneliness. ]