Oh, I do know, and I am counting on that very thing to see all of us through this. [ Because in a way, even though he is now Lord Speaker, a part of him is not even the Lord Commander but one of the rank and file, a Temple Knight himself. He has not forgotten those days and what it was like to be one.
He nods his agreement with Emmanellain and when Alkaid's fingers slide between his, he curls his own around hers without hesitation. He is not responsible for the welfare of every Ishgardian, at least not on his own, and yet when any citizen of Ishgard is hurt or worse and he learns of it, it becomes yet another burden that rests upon his shoulders. Haurchefant's loss is one he still feels keenly, because he was a good man, and he too feels as though he should have at least attempted to save him or push him out of the way.
Never mind that he was not the pinnacle of health at the time, but he feels that is no excuse even now. ]
On the contrary, I have every reason to thank you and to see about giving you and yours proper recompense. But yes, locating your father and brother both remains a priority, lest you begin to worry.
[ And as they walk, he is quick to drape an arm over Alkaid, hoping that what warmth he has will transfer over to her. She must be exhausted, not to mention cold, and the sooner they find themselves out of the elements, the better. But if it were up to him, he would see her brought to warmth and safety while he ventured out to continue the search.
At Emmanellain's question, he looks up, a little surprised, but not quite, at the same time. Their engagement truly is the worst-kept secret in all of Ishgard, after all. ]
I suppose that is only fair, as there have been quite a few rumors swirling about. What do you say to that, Alkaid?
[ He feels as though he could confirm the rumors himself, but he would rather let Alkaid make that decision, as he still believes preserving her reputation is of greater importance. ]
no subject
He nods his agreement with Emmanellain and when Alkaid's fingers slide between his, he curls his own around hers without hesitation. He is not responsible for the welfare of every Ishgardian, at least not on his own, and yet when any citizen of Ishgard is hurt or worse and he learns of it, it becomes yet another burden that rests upon his shoulders. Haurchefant's loss is one he still feels keenly, because he was a good man, and he too feels as though he should have at least attempted to save him or push him out of the way.
Never mind that he was not the pinnacle of health at the time, but he feels that is no excuse even now. ]
On the contrary, I have every reason to thank you and to see about giving you and yours proper recompense. But yes, locating your father and brother both remains a priority, lest you begin to worry.
[ And as they walk, he is quick to drape an arm over Alkaid, hoping that what warmth he has will transfer over to her. She must be exhausted, not to mention cold, and the sooner they find themselves out of the elements, the better. But if it were up to him, he would see her brought to warmth and safety while he ventured out to continue the search.
At Emmanellain's question, he looks up, a little surprised, but not quite, at the same time. Their engagement truly is the worst-kept secret in all of Ishgard, after all. ]
I suppose that is only fair, as there have been quite a few rumors swirling about. What do you say to that, Alkaid?
[ He feels as though he could confirm the rumors himself, but he would rather let Alkaid make that decision, as he still believes preserving her reputation is of greater importance. ]