FF PSL | ❝ two-toned echoes tumbling through time. ❞

[crystallinedreams]

song of hope

BOOK 3: TWO-TONED ECHOES

One brings shadow, one brings light
To this riddle all souls are tied
Brief our moments, brazen and bright
Forged in fury, tempered in iceCODE BY TESSISAMESS

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{ ishgard.

[shepherdtostars]

[ Alkaid had been entirely content to leave a message for K'thisru upon her return from her quick adventure with the rampaging hippogryphs. However, her own tasks with Tataru had taken a considerable more time than she expected. This time she planned to return home to Ishgard with gifts and a smile. The wounds may not have healed entirely, but as ever, Aymeric had been correct in saying they had become easier to bear.

Now, she entirely intends to help him with his own scars and wounds, as well as all of Ishgard. The talk of the restoration campaign had even reached Mor Dhona, and Alkaid leapt at the idea. Of course, she had to attend to the newly awakened G'raha Tia along side Krile first, and make certain both he and her sister would be well before making the trip back home. She had wished to make certain that both would visit her and Aymeric in Ishgard before leaving.

Unlike before, this time, she does take the aetheryte to the Holy See of Ishgard. Her hood is up once more, although she imagines many in the city would know who is underneath these certain robes. Another aether shard trip later and she is walking down the street to Manor Borel. Even though the manor is her home as well, she always knocks, finding she would rather not frighten or disturb the older staff. The steward greets her with a smile as always, and the head maid rushes forward to pull her into a hug.

Alkaid laughs and returns the smiles, and tradition, asks if Aymeric was home. They wait until she is within the threshold of the home to inform her that he is, unsurprisingly, not home. However, it is the next news that causes her heart to sink. Since she had K'thisru were once again called away to the First, Ser Aymeric had thrown himself further into his role of Lord Speaker. He is rarely home for more than the handful of hours he sleeps at night before returning once more. The maid continues on that while Ishgard has much work to do and rebuild, he is far too young to work himself into the grave. Alkaid casts a frown to the steward who merely shakes his head. It most certainly is not just the state of Ishgard that keeps Lord Borel away for so long.

She is even more resolved to do as she had decided now.

Alkaid then sets about explaining her plans to the pair of them. She wishes to help them make dinner--the Lord Speaker's favorite--as well as something else with it. The two packages in her arms are sat down in a spare room only for the smallest to make its way back with her to the kitchen. She works with the pair of them to make a stew, typically made for those within the Temple Knights, but with additional herbs and meats as the Lord Speaker is at home and not far away at war. Next, she instructs the steward in how to make the far eastern desert that will accompany it. While the tastes are certainly clashing, Alkaid would rather Aymeric taste the food of far away if they cannot visit such places themselves just yet.

The hour, of course, grows late, and the head maid shuffles Alkaid off to get ready. While far later than many of the other noble lords would return home, the maid notes that it is about the time in which the Lord Speaker finds himself home. Alkaid dresses in one of the extra rooms in a new dress Tataru has prepared for her. A cream colored dress with an underskirt of blue, sheer sleeves, and exposed collar area. She styles her hair in a braid over her shoulder and sets the other of the wrapped packages on the desk in the study. Which is where she has chosen to surprise the Lord Speaker with dinner.

Her ears perk up at the sound of the front door opening. She and the maid quickly finish assembling the bowels and drinks as needed on the smaller table. The maid then brushes Alkaid's bangs and tweaks her dress, to which the white mage attempts to shoo her away. She does not need to look perfect, as she imagines that might stand out more than anything else about her surprise. Alkaid does, however, smooth her skirt and begin to twist her fingers in excitement as she waits for the steward to escort Aymeric to the study. ]

...the hour is late, m'lord, but your visitor insisted on waiting for you to return home. I've set them to be comfortable in the study. [ Alkaid's ears twitch as she hears the familiar set of footsteps beyond the closed door. ] Shall I fetch something to drink?

[ Which, of course, Alkaid has already selected the wine best to go with dinner. She does not find herself pausing or worrying over drinks served to her as some might, despite the several questionable circumstances she has been in with them.

Once the door opens, she stands up straight with her hands folded together and a smile on her face. Her tail sways, absolutely glowing at the sight of her betrothed. Dinner is behind her on the table, to which she carefully stands in the way of in order to surprise him yet again. ]

Good evening, Ser Aymeric. [ Alkaid has to force her voice to remain steady and keep up the part. ] I hope it's not too late for me to visit...

[thewayforpeace]

[ If Aymeric had to describe how he felt his days passed while Alkaid and K'thisru were away, he would say that he felt as though he was going through each one as if he were asleep. And that is not only because he has been getting very little sleep when he finally returns home at night. Instead, it seems to him that he is counting every minute and hour that passes, waiting for some word from his betrothed that she will be coming home.

Naturally, he understands why there has been nothing but silence from her. Whatever it is that she is involved with, it must be quite important, and if his understanding is correct, the distance separating them has never been greater.

And so, in an attempt to forestall his loneliness and worry for her and her sister, he has thrown himself entirely into his work. He rises long before the sun and works long after it has set once more. And when he finally returns home, he only sleeps for the barest handful of hours before he awakens again to repeat the routine.

Of course, it has begun to wear on him despite his efforts to tell himself that he must carry on and keep their home safe and thriving, for whenever it is that Alkaid returns. The silence from her is also taking its toll, but he knows he has no room to express discontent or unhappiness with this separation. What she does is of paramount importance; what he does is important, but considerably less than the duties of the Warriors of Light.

Still, it wears on him to the point that he has begun carrying with him one of the bows that Alkaid wore on her person, and when he begins to desperately miss her, he takes it out and holds it in his hands or places it upon his lap as he works. It might seem strange and even foolish, but by doing so, he feels as though she is not so far away, and it bolsters his spirits just enough to get through the day.

Even so, the fact remains that he is not resting nearly enough, and no amount of holding onto Alkaid's bow can reenergize him. When he is at work, he manages to remain as alert as possible, because it would not do for anyone of the House of Lords or the House of Commons to see the Lord Speaker falling asleep on the job.

On this particular day, it has been one problem after another, but he has seen to each one as best as he can. He may be beyond tired, but his mind remains nearly as sharp as ever. Still, those with whom he works on a daily basis have begun noticing that something is not quite right with him. One or two of them have approached him with questions about his well-being, but he lightly rebuffed them all.

The hours seem to move at a crawl as the various lords and representatives gradually take their leave, returning to their homes and their beds. But still Aymeric continues to work until the very last person has left. It is silent in his office, and it is not until he jolts awake, pen in hand and a scribble of ink upon the report he was writing, that he concludes he will have to finish said report in the morning.

The path home is familiar, but his steps are slow and his armored boots scuff along the pavement as his exhaustion sweeps over him. Although he has long maintained that he is accustomed to the often frigid temperatures of Coerthas, and he is for the most part, there is no pretending that said temperatures do not aggravate his old wounds. As he walks, a hand presses to his side where only a healed scar remains, and yet the chill has caused it to ache once again. There is nothing he can do about it, however, and so he presses on.

Soon enough, he will be home, and he tries to think only of that and the dinner that is certain to be waiting for him. The house staff have been so faithful and helpful as always, and as he thinks about them, he feels no small amount of gratitude sweep over him. In so many ways, they support him when challenges come, and although they have their tasks and responsibilities, over the years, the line between their respective roles have become a little bit more blurred. He considers them friends and he does his best to treat them well.

Finally, he arrives at the old family home and he opens the door and steps inside. The steward is quick to approach him as he arrives, to welcome him home for the evening and apprise him of any important developments or occurrences from earlier in the day.

This time, however, he has something different to say, and as the words wash over him, it is all Aymeric can do to keep his shoulders from sinking as he feels the weight of the burdens he carries come to land on him again. ]

A visitor at this hour? They must come with dire news, or at least, important news, to have come this late in the evening. Very well, I will meet with them. A drink would be very appreciated, if it is no trouble.

[ He does not like to place undue hardship or burdens upon the faithful steward, even if one might argue that bringing the lord of the house a drink is the least of his responsibilities. True to form, the steward gives a brief bow and retreats, not to retrieve a drink because he knows full well that one has already been provided, but to give Aymeric and his visitor privacy. As always, of course, he will not be far in the event that either should need him, but he is well aware that this is one meeting that is long overdue.

Having seen the way Aymeric has pushed himself to his limits, he imagines that whatever scene is to come is certain to be fraught with emotion of all kinds.

For his part, Aymeric lets out a sigh before he steps into his study, resigned to what will certainly be a meeting that requires his full attention, and so he tries to call on what little reserves of energy he has left so as not to give a bad representation of himself and his position. ]

Good evening. What might I help you w- [ His words cut off mid-sentence as he realizes just who is standing there in his study.

For a moment, he stands there frozen, hands having dropped to his sides as astonishment sweeps over him. A moment later, he finds his voice again, but when he speaks, his tone is hushed and if she is listening, she will be able to hear how his voice shakes. ]

.... Lantaa?

[shepherdtostars]

[ Alkaid had intended to beg Feo-Ul to send dreams to Aymeric. Ones that would be messages of her time in the First, and perhaps even allow him to see things for himself. Yet, Elidibus's plans enveloped all in Norvrandt and she certainly could not pull Feo-Ul--Titania--away from their throne to send a message. It hurt deeply, but, all she could do was hope to explain it all to him in the ways that she always does. That had been a driving force for her as she and K'thisru climbed the Tower with the Crystal Exarch to finally face the Ascian wearing Ardbert's face.

However, she can see that regardless of circumstances, the forced silence between them truly has taken its toll on her beloved knight.

The head maid had gone on the entire time about the state of Ser Aymeric. It gave her an idea of how to approach the situation. Those plans are quickly pushed to the side as she takes in the sight of him. Oh, her poor knight. There is a sense of guilt that rises within her heart. Look at what her constantly having to leave is doing to him...

Alkaid's smile does not falter at the exhausted sight of him. The playful game she had intended to keep up is done away with as well. Instead, she simmers her energy and excitement and simply approaches him. Her hands immediately go to his. Her head tilts back to look up at him with her chin resting on his chest. ]

Hello, my knight. [ A almost customary greeting from her at this point. One that she intends, every time, to be private between the two of them. ] I wished to surprise you properly this time.

[ As given her last homecoming was filled with the opposite of what it should have been.

Her fingers gently brush along his. ] Come and sit with me. Dinner is made and ready for you.

[thewayforpeace]

[ Even though Alkaid had not had the opportunity to ask Feo Ul to send Aymeric dreams, he dreamt well enough on his own. More often than not, his dearest featured in his dreams, and while he was happy in the brief moments that he slept, he was less so when he awoke and realized that it was only a dream. He lost track of the times that he awoke from his slumber believing that he still held her in his arms only to find that he was holding only empty air.

But then he sees the way her countenance changes and the playful look that was in her eyes and her posture seems to fade, and he is quick to reach out for her, a sudden regret and fear taking hold that he has become far too overwrought for her, when all she wants are happy memories alongside him.

Whatever it was that she had planned, he wants to see it, but he fears that his reaction led her to change her mind. Still, when she draws nearer and rests her chin on his chest as she has begun to do, he squeezes her hands and feels the tell-tale signs of tears forming in the corners of his eyes. ]

You're... [ His voice catches and he has to try again. ] You are finally home. [ Even though his emotions are dangerously close to breaking through the mask he wears when in the public's eye, he still manages a small smile just for her. And of course, he knows that he need not wear such a mask when in her company, but he has spent so long doing his best to appear calm and collected in his day-to-day affairs that he is finding it difficult to lower his emotional shields and let his true self show once more. ]

I am very surprised, dearest. [ The name still feels odd on his tongue, but he still likes the sound of it, and what is more, he likes to call her by that name. ] I did not expect you to return so soon, but I am so very happy that you have.

[ He knows that his exhaustion is plain in his voice, but he hopes that she can hear the happiness and relief in it as well. He does as he has been asked, moving with her so that they might sit down together. And for a moment before he speaks, he takes in her appearance, noting the new dress and how beautiful she looks in it. She could wear just about anything and still look just as beautiful as ever, but this particular number flatters her in every way. ]

How long have you been home?

[shepherdtostars]

[ They were similar to the dreams that she held. She would dream of being in their bed, against his body, speaking as they often would. Not all her dreams were entirely pure hearted, in so many words, but she wishes to have all forms of intimacy with him. In her mind and heart she already sees herself as his lady-wife and strives to be all that can as it.

Even if a part of her deep down feels as if she has failed in so many ways already.

Her fingers slide between his and brush along them, her gaze softening with unbridled love and affection. Playful games can be once he has rested and is content again. She is still beyond happy to see him, her smile wide and content. She will not ask him to let down his mask and guard for now. Not when he seems to need it so. ]

Yes, I am. With no more need to travel to the First. [ Her head tilts to nudge his chest with her cheek. ] The only places I wish to travel are with you in our home or where Ishgard may need me.

[ Which, is to say in so many words, she does not plan on leaving again for some time.

Her ears stand on end at the sound of his love name for her. He so rarely uses it, but every time he does, she feels as if she may melt on the spot. Her smile widens once more and she nudges her cheek against his chest, puffing them out slightly for added humorous effect. Her tail sways happily side-to-side and she all but glides at his side until they take their seats. ]

Since the late afternoon. Although, I have spent the last few days in Mor Dhona finishing looking over someone who came with us from the First. [ She smiles again, practically beaming. It is quite the story that can be saved for later. For now, she wishes to only focus on her knight. Alkaid quickly sets dinner up to reveal the stew she's prepared along side the maid, and holds his bowl up to him. ] Tell me everything I've missed. How does home fair? What might I do for you?

[thewayforpeace]

[ There is a part of him that wonders just why he became so bereft when she left. He knows all too well that she will continue to leave as new threats and new problems arise that the Scions must handle or that she must handle alongside her sister as the Warrior of Light. But how long will this go on? Will she be the people's hero until she decides that it is time to retire due to age?

If that is the case, he will not begrudge her decision, nor will he ever complain about remaining behind and waiting for her return. Still, as she knows by now, when she leaves, part of him goes with her. ]

I see. I take that to mean that all is well on the First now? Or, at least, as well as it is possible to be. With what little I know of the First, it seems as though the people there have taken great strides forward, but there is much still to be done.

[ In a way, the situation is not unlike the one he and other Ishgardians are attempting to navigate. ]

Will you be able to remain here for a time? [ She said she has no need to travel to the First again, but that does not mean she is finished with all travel. A part of him expects word to come that she will have to depart again soon. ] As long as you are here, I would like to show you the progress that has been made in the city, and in the housing district as well.

[ Although his worries still remain, not to mention his fears that they will be parted again before too long, he manages to give her a wider smile this time. The way she puffs out her cheeks never fails to bring a smile to his face, because it is such an endearing expression that he cannot help but feel happy when he sees it. The ache in his heart because of how much he missed her remains, but it is beginning to lessen simply by being with her. ]

And is this someone all right? [ He accepts the offered bowl without hesitation, but he finds himself distracted by her words and the notion that someone returned from the First with them. He is not one to borrow trouble when he can help it, but there is a small voice interjecting that maybe this someone has caught Alkaid's eye and her heart as well. That thought only brings sadness to Aymeric's heart and mind, but he knows better than to allow it to take root so soon.

Until he knows the circumstances of this person's arrival from the First, it is better to not speculate. ]

Ah, well- The home fares as well as always, simply because the household staff are thoroughly capable of running it in... In my absence.

[ He supposes she has either already been told or has guessed that he spent long hours away from home, and so he sees no reason to conceal that. ]

Your being here is enough, I assure you. [ And yet, he knows that the loneliness will not fade until he has held Alkaid in his arms and finally relaxed with her beside him. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ No, she will not be the Warrior of Light till the end of her days. She truly wishes to place the mantle aside and live as healer and wife. Especially now that the matters of the First are taken care of. The war with the Empire must be settled, and then she plans to leave the Alliance leaders to their own wonts. Should truly dire circumstances happen, then they most certainly may call upon her, but she does not wish to be their errand girl anymore. Truthfully, she never wished it at all. The fact that Aymeric did not treat her and her sister in such ways was just another thing that attracted her to him. Although, given their first meeting, Alkaid doubts he had to do much more to have her fall entirely in love with him. She did love him at first sight after all.

Her head tilts to the side as she takes in his countenance. There is no doubt that he is happy to see her, but exhausted and perhaps even forlorn. Her fingers squeeze the bowl in her hands before he takes it. Truthfully, their parting had been as hard for him as her. Many nights were spent holding a pillow to her person in the way she would hold onto Aymeric. The events of what happened had kept her occupied enough to not let her missing him fester, but, that clearly is not the case for her beloved.

She waits until he has taken the bowl before continuing in her answers. ]

Anything that might challenge the First is now their responsibility. Any threat of rejoining or calamities has passed now that we have taken care of the last of the Ascians. [ Her head tilts to the side. ] Yes, they are well, and will be traveling with Thisru for the next foreseeable future. I imagine she won't let them out of her sight now that they are finally here.

[ She goes quiet for a moment, her tail continuing to sway as she once more takes in the sight before her. The loneliness comes off of him in waves and it tugs at her heart. The temptation to throw her arms around him and kiss him is so very strong, but they both need dinner before anything else. Still, she comes to a decision that will hopefully help lift his spirits.

Alkaid shifts to sit on her knees beside him before gathering her own dinner. Both hands raise to either side of his face, guiding him to look at her. ]

The only thing I would love more than seeing the progress of the restoration is to be in my beloved's arms. [ Alkaid, of course, is no mind reader. However, she has come to the understanding that both of them prefer to be in much physical contact as possible. Which is why she tilts her head to press her forehead to his and gently nudge his nose with hers. Her voice lowers so that only he might hear, as if she is making a promise. ] I will not be leaving for some time. My place is here, with you, in our home. It is where I wish to be the most. You have always been, and ever will be, my knight and lord. That has not changed since our first meeting, even if neither of us were entirely aware of it to start.

[ She smiles then, pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek. ] After dinner, we will have all the time in the world to ourselves. I promise.

[thewayforpeace]

[ That she undoubtedly missed him as well is yet another thing that his mind uses to chastise him. He has been acting rather selfishly, if he might say as much himself. He is not the only one who has been lonely or feeling incomplete, as he imagines she has as well, but more than that... There are those in Ishgard whose hearts are every bit as raw as his own and still have a great deal of healing and mending to do in the aftermath of the war. Perhaps he has been far too absorbed with his own selfish desires and longings to truly be the support that his people need. But perhaps he knew that on some level, which is why he threw himself as deeply into his work as he did, as a way of being that pillar for them and making amends for his self-centeredness.

Now if only he can find a way to make it up to Alkaid. Perhaps by focusing upon her and offering her the comfort that she surely needs, he can begin to do just that. Far be it for him to continue going on in this selfish manner: a manner that he finds entirely unbecoming. But he can hardly punish himself for what he feels are his shortcomings and still be present for her, and so he pushes those thoughts away for the time being. ]

Well, thank Halone for that, although with you and your sister lending your aid, I am hardly surprised that those particular threats have been addressed. And your sister- she is happy, I take it. Who is this individual that has captured her attention?

[ In a way, it relieves him to know that whoever this person may be, it is K'thisru who has been taken in by them, and not Alkaid. Now that she has returned, he means to pour in all the effort and time that he can into showing her just how devoted he is to her and how committed he is to their relationship. He still wrestles with feeling as though he is a poor partner for her, but he has resolved to channel those feelings into proving himself wrong and being the best, most attentive partner that he can be. ]

Then your wish shall be granted, for I would hope for nothing else. [ His head tips forward slightly as emotion threatens to overtake him once more; this time, however, it is a far happier emotion born from a sense of gratitude that she came home to him and is still seeking him out and desiring to be with him.

His eyes close momentarily as he takes in the feel of her lips pressing against his cheek. He has missed this so greatly, and it still feels as though this could be a dream that he will wake up from as he has done so many times before. ]

Tell me one thing, Lantaa, as I have no doubts that you have things you wish for and desire as well. What might I do for you now? [ She wishes for him to hold her, which he will gladly do without hesitation, but she must have other desires that he might fulfill for her tonight. ]

mehebeh a time skip involved >>

[shepherdtostars]

[ If she knew how his mind chastised him, his tormented thoughts, Alkaid would insist that he need not be in either state of mind. Both of them feel the pang of longing and loneliness when she is away. He feels as if a part of her leaves and she feels as if a part of her remains. Yet, it seems those displaced parts have yet to be a comfort to one another. Perhaps that is something they yet need to discover, or, simply a part that may never truly come to a conclusion.

A smile remains on her face even if it merely is one of content. The sound of his voice makes her heart flutter in ways she thought might simply ease one day. A certain thrill still finds its way up her spine whenever she hears his voice for the first time in so long. If he did not have dinner within his hands, she would forgo her ideas entirely and simply kiss him. However, she knows he has not thought to take care of himself much, and thus is determined to at least see him to a proper meal before the rest of the night. ]

That is a story better left for the morning, my love. [ She nudges his cheek once more. ] This time is for the two of us. Any questions you may have for our trip to the First can wait.

[ She is certain he would rather use their time tonight to spend between the pair of them. What does she desire? Certainly speaking with him, touching him, and finding their way to being whole once more. All of those things can wait until after dinner and their separate baths. ]

Have dinner with me and keep my company for the rest of the night. [ One final affectionate nudge is given before she reaches for her own bowl and settles in to eat beside him. There are no expectations for him to comment on dinner--simply eating will be enough for her. Her tail returns swaying at her side and her head tilts to him. ] We will see where the night carries us afterwards.

[ A spoonful is taken from the bowl and eaten. The warmth of it runs through her entire person. Gods, she has missed Ishgard so. The weather, the people, the food, her beloved knight. She inquires once more into the state of affairs that she has missed over the course of their meal. How fairs the Fortemps, the restoration efforts, their relationship with the Dravanians. Should she intervene on anything after time has been well spent with him? Is there anything that might require her attention as the Warrior of Light? Or, will she be allowed to simply be herself for the time she is determined to spend in Ishgard?

Wine is served as well and Alkaid graciously thanks the steward. Not just for his service and care for Aymeric in her absence, but for aiding her in setting the whole affair together. While she may have not seen the reaction she expected? A truer reaction to Aymeric's state of being is far more important to her. Now, she has an idea of what comfort he might need. The bows are taken away as they are finished, and Alkaid decides that perhaps desert is best left for the morrow. Simply because it is clear Aymeric is in need of her presence alone.

She moves to stand in front of him, hands resting on his shoulders before moving to encircle behind his neck. She tilts her head and lets her ears twitch. ]

Shall we take our baths and reconvene in our room?

{ continued, cause they go long threads

[shepherdtostars]

( cont from here )

Carry me, is it? [ Her cheeks are still flushed with her ears perked, but having relaxed some. The hazed look remains on her face even though her lips curl into a mischievous smile. ] My lord, would we not need to dry ourselves off first?

[ Alkaid shifts forward then, nudging her nose to his and giving a brief kiss to his lips. A pleased sound escapes her at the contact, followed by a deep sigh. If only the water had still been warm so they did not need to move. ]

But, to answer your question, I would far prefer our bed. It's far easier to tend to your side there. [ A hand leaves around his neck for only a moment in order to brush against the healed wound on his side. Her smile eases into a gentle one before kissing his cheek once more. ] And while I do so, you can tell me all that I have missed in my time away from home.

[ She notes then that the present she had brought to him from Tataru still remains in his study. Well, she will simply need to fetch it in the morning before he wakes. She hopes that she may ease him into a state of comfort to the point that he will sleep long and deeply. If that means she must scold and send the rest of the House of Lords away? Then, she will most certainly do so. Her knight has worked himself far too much in her absence.

Despite the sound of protest she makes at having to part from him, Alkaid does lift herself as needed so he can raise himself from the tub. Once they are removed from the tub, the water draining, and have dried one another? Alkaid reaches up to place her hands on his shoulders to indicate he is more than welcome to carry her to bed. Then, it is only once she is sitting on the bed that she takes his face into her hands and gently kisses his forehead. ]

I would ask to wear what my lord does tonight. [ Despite her attempts of sounding serious yet playful, her tail moves side to side to show her desire for the idea. ] And then, if you find yourself in agreement...

[ Alkaid gently pats her lap. Of course, she will move to her side of the bed. Once partially dressed she will be in a position for him to rest his head against her thighs as he has always seemed to enjoy. She will of course soothe his hair down. She would see him relaxed and his side taken care of before he returns to doting upon her. ]

[thewayforpeace]

Of course. I must admit that I have often wished for the opportunity to carry you, if only to give you a moment's rest. You deserve more than a moment, of course, and I would give that to you as well, if only I could. [ And for just a moment, a mischievous sort of look takes his face too, because a part of him would insist upon carrying her as she is, paying no heed to such things as drying off. But that is hardly practical, and so he puts that mischievous notion to the side.

And as always, her kiss sends chills up his spine and leaves him craving more. But there will be time enough for that. ]

Then the bed it is. But I must say at least one more time that you do not have to step into the role of healer tonight, unless it truly is your desire to do so. [ He has come to realize that the attention she gives him as healer is yet another expression of her love, and so he does not intend to rebuff her. He only wishes to make it plain that she does not have to do so at the cost of her own rest, and after that, her actions are hers to make. ]

As for what has transpired in your absence- so much has happened, and I wish for the time to relate all of it to you.

[ Quickly enough, they dry themselves off and make their way from the tub to the bed, with him doing as he said he would and carrying her the short distance there. Once she is seated on the bed and expresses her own wish, he looks at her with something akin to mild surprise. ]

You would? But of course. What is mine is yours, after all. [ He gestures to the nearby wardrobe, completing it with a small flourish at the end. ] Would you like to choose something, or should I do so for you?

[ But she is already beckoning to him to settle himself with his head in her lap as he has done numerous times before now, and he does not hesitate. Once he is positioned there, he cannot stop the sigh that leaves him. He has missed this more than he could put into words: just the simple act of lying there pillowed in her lap. He meant what he said earlier, that she does not have to act as healer tonight. The closeness they share is more than enough, and more than he could have hoped for.

As he lies there, he tilts his head upward slightly and his eyes search for hers. ]

I love you, and I have missed you.

[shepherdtostars]

Then I shall need to find more opportunities for you to be able to carry me.

[ His mischievous smile is met with a sweet one. She gently taps his nose once more, but ultimately sinks into his hold.

The flourish garners a laugh from her, practically beaming at him. Whenever his playful side comes forward? She knows that she had made the right deduction and actions to aid him. ]

Pick whichever you prefer me in.

[ Her smile remains and her hands grab the fabric of the chosen shirt, quickly slipping it on before he makes his way to her lap. She adjusts only slightly for him, letting him make himself comfortable. Then, she places one hand in his hair and the other at his side. Her fingers weave into his hair, gently brushing the bangs to the side and combing the damp ends. Her gaze moves to meet his eyes the moment his look for hers. She holds his gaze, feeling her shoulders curl and a wave of happiness overcome her. ]

I have missed you so very much, Aymeric.

[ Perhaps she uses her pet names for him too often. His name may truly mean more in these moments. There is another name for him in her mind, but, that will wait for the morrow. The story of her adventure and what she had learned of the ancient past would only serve to bring up emotions she feels are better left to rest for the moment. For now, he needs affection and attention.

Her fingers continue to work through his hair, while the other pair begins to gently rub the site of the wound that threatened to take him away before they could properly begin a relationship. Alkaid's two-toned eyes gently close as she once more listens to his aether. It is calmer now than it was before the bath, yet she can still feel how it is tense and tightened in the area it most usually is. ]

I would only see to this so that you might relax more and sleep tonight. [ Alkaid tilts her head ever so slightly to the side. ] If you would rather me forgo even that, then, I will.

[ But, oh, she can feel the emotional charge in his aether. She can sense how deep his emotions run if it causes his muscles to knot. The feeling is so intense, especially coupled with her own, that the fingers woven through his hair shake at the sensations. A part of her truly stays with him and a part of him leaves with her. Her eyebrows knit slightly as she continues to listen to his aether, but does not move to unwind it unless given permission. ]

My leavings have always bothered you... even if you do not share it. Yet, now, it truly hurts, doesn't it? [ Her head tilts further as she gently frowns. ] It hurts so very much... so deeply... to the point where you could not ignore it any longer... and not even sleep would help...

Aymeric, answer me truthfully. Don't give me an answer you think I wish to hear, or the answer that would be best for the countless others we tend to; only the answer that your heart gives without reservations.

[ Alkaid's eyes partly open to find his blue eyes immediately. The hand at his hair moves to brush along his cheek before resting to hold the side of his face. ]

Would you have me retire from the Scions of the Seventh Dawn?

[thewayforpeace]

Perhaps I shall surprise you one day and simply sweep you off your feet. If that is to your liking, of course.

[ Because he is resolved to never do anything that would make her uncomfortable or unhappy. Never mind that he still feels he has caused her some moments of upset before, even if she would insist that it is not his doing nor his fault. ]

Truthfully, you would look ravishing in most anything, but I believe this particular one suits you.

[ He points to a shirt hanging in the wardrobe, and he smiles when she accepts it and slides it on.

The very moment that she begins weaving her fingers into his hair is the same moment that he finds himself truly beginning to relax. Oh, he might have a long way to go before he is truly and entirely content, but she is already helping ease some of the weight that has been resting on him since her departure.

As for her use of pet names, he does enjoy it when she uses them, and so he will never begrudge her their use. In his mind, the names that they use for each other are private, something shared between them that no one else knows, and so they are even more special to him.

A sound that is equal parts a sigh and a moan in response to the way her fingers rub against the healed scar on his side escapes him, and he moves involuntarily to further nestle his head in her lap. The old wound had been aching for some time, but he did his best to ignore it and carry on with his business and his day to day affairs.

Even now, he tries to focus more on responding to her than allowing himself to be lost in the feeling of her ministrations. ]

I would only entertain such a notion in the interest of you having the rest that you need as well. I will not pretend that sleep has not been a fickle companion to me of late, but I still worry about your needs and your rest.

[ He moves involuntarily once again, legs moving slightly to curl a little at the knees: an unconscious gesture mirroring one he did so long ago now on a rain-soaked street.

The wound aches, yes, but it is nothing compared to the ache in his heart that settled there after she left and has yet to fade with her return. He hears her question and his answer springs to his lips immediately, but at the very last minute, he bites his lip in an uncharacteristic display of hesitation.

Oh, how he would love to say that yes, he wishes for her to retire and to take up her place as his wife, his dearest, and the lady of his house.

But in spite of her words telling him to answer truthfully, to speak the true desires of his heart and not what he thinks she wants to hear or what would be best for the people in their lives... No small amount of guilt causes his heart to clench inside him and he finds himself once again wrestling with the push and pull of duty and heart. ]

Lantaa, I- I... [ I wish for you to retire and remain here in Ishgard with me. ]

Would you truly retire?

[ And if you did, would you come to resent me for asking you to? ]

[shepherdtostars]

It is very much to my liking. [ And the movement of her tail should surely show that.

Her eyebrows knit further at the sound that leaves him. While not distressing, it does cause her to worry. Aymeric has always been one to compartmentalize his feelings to focus on the task at hand, and she has watched him do it time and time again since she met him. However, this time seems so very different. She guides him along his way to nestle in her lap, trying to encourage him how he might wish to move. ]

I have always rested well when I am at your side. You've no need to worry for me at the moment.

[ Her half-opened gaze moves, watching how his legs curl inward once more. He had done so the very first time she had eased his side. She had thought that perhaps it was due to the pain he was in. However, now, she wonders if the action is something more. The motion only cements in her mind that he needs his side tended to, regardless of his desire to see her tended to.

Then, her gaze moves back to his eyes once he says her name. Her head cants forwards lightly to encourage him. Instead, a question comes from him. Alkaid smiles gently at him, her shoulders lowering, while her fingers once more brush along his cheek before returning to his hair. ]

Yes, I would. [ Alkaid lets her eyes fall shut once more as her fingers begin to move along his dark locks and at his side once more. ] I had thought of it often when I returned to the First. While I owe them much, including the way of being able to find you in this life? I had never wished to be a Scion or a great figure in history. Such a thing was never my intention when I left my clan for Gridania.

[ The tips of her fingers envelop in the familiar white-green light. They glide over the visible scar, moving in circles to encourage his aether to undo its knots. ]

If you truly wish that I retire? I would. If you would ask that I marry you right in this moment and be the mother of your children? I would. Anything you would ask of me, Aymeric, I would see done and made possible.

[ Her ears give a small twitch as she listens for his response, verbally or his body moving to the beginnings of her work. There is no way to tell if they have been able to share their previous lives together in such a fashion, or if life found ways to pull them apart again and again. She means to make certain they have the rest of this life together, Ascians and Scions be damned if needed. ]

You are my one and only in this life and all lives.

[thewayforpeace]

[ Content for the moment that she likes the notion of him sweeping her off her feet and that she says to not worry about her for the present, he decides to leave those topics alone, at least for now.

It feels rather selfish on his part, but there certainly is a part of him that has longed for her ministrations and the skill with which she performs them. Discomfort has been his constant companion to varying degrees while she was away, and to have even a temporary reprieve is a more than welcome thought.

And once again, he is thankful that none who look to him to lead and make careful decisions are here to witness this. He still believes his posture in moments like these to be less than becoming and certainly unfit for the Lord Speaker. But he does not have to be in the public eye every minute of every day, and he knows full well that Alkaid wishes to be with him as him, without the mask and mantle he wears as is fitting for his position.

His voice remains lowered as she continues to tend to his side and begins to attempt to stir his aether into movement. The last time that she did this, he reacted very strongly to it, and a part of him recoils from the idea of that happening again. And yet it was a very involuntary reaction, and so he has to admit that it could very well occur once more. ]

All that I could ever ask for is your presence here in our home. I do not wish to pull you away from your responsibilities, especially if you are needed, but I-

[ A wave of emotion rises then and chokes out the rest of what he was going to say. In a way, he supposes that it is just as well that he did not finish that sentence, because she knows just how much he misses her when she is gone. He does not need to state it again, lest she think he has nothing else to say.

Instead, he opens his mouth to make some other comment, perhaps about the subject of their history and their previous lives, but once again, he finds himself interrupted, unwillingly so. The muscles in the area that she is tending contract without warning as her work to cause his aether to move begins to take effect. The knots are beginning to ease, but they will not loosen so quickly.

Aymeric's eyes slide closed for a moment, not wishing to give away his discomfort or the sudden tension that has settled on his shoulders. A part of him thinks that this is a rather sad state of affairs, to have a wound that troubles him so much even now. Perhaps if he were a stronger man, he might tolerate the aches and discomfort better than he does. And perhaps Alkaid grows weary of having to unknot his tangled aether.

Both of those thoughts do little to ease his mind, and so he tries to push them aside so that he might let her do her work and then both of them can finally rest together. ]

[shepherdtostars]

[ She waits a moment, giving him time to finish his thought. Once it is clear he will not voice the rest of his answer? She nods, the fingers in his hair curling further into his locks to untangle the strands. ]

I will write the letter in the morning. I cannot put the duties of Hydaelyn's Champion aside, but the work of a Scion I can put to rest.

[ Alkaid pauses for a brief moment as her shoulders curl. Her tail does awell, gently pressing to her leg with the tip of it near his hand. Then, she adds barely above a whisper: ]

Maybe we will be able to finally begin planning our wedding.

[ She shakes her head to rid herself of the water that gathers in her closed eyes. Now is certainly not the time for tears. Aymeric needs tending to , as well as anything else that may arise before they rest. She shifts slightly, adjusting how her legs rest underneath his head to make it give him a more comfortable place to rest.

Her fingers continue to move at the scar, frowning slightly at how the muscles pull and tug. He is one of the strongest men she knows, willing to shoulder the burden of an entire city and nation to lead them to peace. They are only mortal, only human, and while the wound certainly causes no small amount of pain? At least he is not rendered unable to do the duties he tasks himself with... and at least he still walks the star with them. ]

It's been very cold while I've been away... hasn't it? Cold and no one to seek comfort and warmth from... because I was called away to the First... [ No upset is in her tone, merely reading the aether as it unfolds; making conjectures and observations. ] So much work that must be done for the restoration... not just from the war, but from the resummoning of King Thordan... even if Ser Fancel is overseeing it all... You've worked so very hard and so long... hours upon hours... even if the rooms grow cold, making the wound hurt more ...

[ Alkaid leans forward as much as she is able to with his head in her lap. She kisses his shoulder gently. ]

Oh, Aymeric, my poor knight... look at what I've done to you. [ She nudges his shoulder affectionately in way of apology. Yes, she most certainly must retire. He does not need to be burdened so much by her leaving. Not anymore. ] What else might I do to help bring your heart ease?

[thewayforpeace]

[ Once again, he finds himself conflicted. Oh, he wishes to have her home and by his side always, or at least, as much as she is able. What he hopes for more than anything is for a day to come in which she will not have to travel so far away from him and from their home. But such a thing still feels incredibly selfish to him, and so he struggles with the notion that she would retire from the Scions because of him. ]

I would not ask you to do such a thing simply because I desire it. If you wish to continue working with the Scions, who am I to stop you?

[ His emotions threaten to choke him once more, and he knows that they are clear in his tone of voice, but try as he might to get a hold of himself, he finds he is unable to in this present moment. ]

Our wedding... [ No sooner does she say those words than the dam seems to burst, letting his emotions spill out in full, and with it bringing all the hurt and loneliness he tried so hard to keep inside while she was gone. His hands clench into fists and his shoulders shake, but lest she misunderstand, he is only reacting this way because he has missed her so much. The very thought of finally being able to plan and have their wedding brings so much happiness to him, even if that happiness might seem lost in the wave of emotions he is trying to navigate. ] I can think of nothing that I desire more than to share in planning our wedding and experiencing that happiness with you when the day finally comes.

[ But no sooner does he say those words than his power of speech temporarily flees. His hands that had clenched into fists loosen and reach for her, although he knows she is right there with him. But she is right in saying that there was no one for him to seek out for comfort. The cat that has been with him for so many years was there, of course, but he did not remain at Aymeric's side the entirety of the time. Still, some company is better than none at all, and he did have the steward and the maid as well.

But none of them were Lantaa, and at times when sleep escaped him, he would quietly walk the halls of the manor, occasionally stopping when he saw something that belonged to her or when he caught the faintest hint of lilies. And for just a moment, he would smile and think of her, even though she was far away.

His aether moves, still twisting and turning in knots even though her efforts are beginning to see them unmade, and for just a moment, the ache in his side seems to intensify, as if responding to occasions in which people sought to hurt him. The most recent one, of course, is the summoning of Thordan, and although Aymeric cannot recall every detail that transpired, he knows it has left its mark in the form of a fear of being turned once again, of being made unrecognizable.

If he could do it without dislodging her hands, he would turn onto his side and curl in on himself once more, but he has enough presence of mind to lie still even as he lightly nestles even further into her lap. He hopes that this is not an uncomfortable position for her, and so he tries not to go too far lest he make her legs ache as well.

He finally finds his voice again just in time to offer a response to her question. ]

What might you do? You have... You have already done so much. [ His eyes once again search for hers, and the look of longing and need is all too clear in them.

But as has happened before, an image... a memory springs forth unbidden, and for just a moment, Aymeric finds himself transported to a different time, and not a happy one either.

Please... Do not leave us.

The words are spoken only in his mind, but she might notice how his lips move soundlessly, echoing the words that he spoke once when he was younger than he is now. The subject of them is, of course, different, but the heartfelt yearning behind them is very much the same.

Do not leave me.

It takes another moment for the mist that seems to be swirling about and clouding his vision to fade, and when it does, he turns his head upward just slightly so that he might see her better. ]

Don't go. [ It is a foolish request to make, because whether she is a Scion or not, her duty as Hydaelyn's Champion may still take her far from him, but it slips out before he can think to recall it. ]

{ long thread of the long!

[shepherdtostars]

[ She moves her hand from his arm to his back, gently rubbing it to aid with the coughs. He intends to return to his duties despite the fever and cough? Alkaid merely gives him a look of disapproval but does not voice anything further. If he is so intent on work? She then must get him to a position where he is well enough to attend. There is not a doubt in her abilities, nor his to be well, but she suspects his illness may run deeper than he first expects. ]

Then, you can give me the brief version at breakfast, and then detail it to me in full when you are home for dinner. On time. Otherwise, the head maid may very well fret more.

[ However, Alkaid returns to luring him to sleep. She dozes off herself, upright and against the headboard. The sun is what wakes her. She opens her eyes and looks down at the resting Lord Speaker in her lap. She gently brushes his hair down once more before slipping from underneath him and guiding him to rest on the pillows. Her hand touches his forehead to find that his fever has lessened, but, it still persists. Alkaid's face scrunches before she pulls the covers over him once more and grabs the robe meant for her that rests with the rest of her clothing beside his. She slips quietly from the room and makes her way to the kitchen.

Unsurprisingly, the staff is already awake and offer her morning greetings. Alkaid smiles in return, explaining the situation that the lord of the house finds himself in. The head maid rambles on of how she knew what was wrong, where the steward sighs and directs Alkaid to the pantry. There are enough herbs to make some tonic, but not quite the kind she would make. She makes a note to visit the Jeweled Crozier later in the day.

Regardless, she gets to work alongside the head maid as she tends to breakfast. There is a certain joy that comes to her to tend to the manor and see affairs in order. The pace is different than the endless beating drum of being a Scion and Warrior of Light. It is only an hour later the steward returns as a guest has come to the manor: Lord Artoirel de Fortemps.

Alkaid rushes to the front door to greet him in the foyer. A wide smile is given to him, to which he returns, unaware that she had returned to Ishgard. The conversation does not last long. He explains that he had visited to escort Ser Aymeric in a friendly gesture, and Alkaid instantly begs that he not try make Aymeric return to his duties that morning. If need be, and it would not be trouble, she asks that Artoriel bring the paperwork to the maner and she will see certain that he attends to at least that. Artoriel seems to consider it for a long moment, but something tells her that the young Lord Foretemps had already agreed to the idea. He promises to return later that morning and sees himself out.

She breathes a small breath of relief before hearing a sound from the bedroom. Her ears lift, and Alkaid finds herself quickly rushing down the halls. Perhaps it is not that different from rushing from place to place after all.

Alkaid opens the door and looks inside. ]

Aymeric?

good long thread nodders

[thewayforpeace]

[ He moves instinctively to further rest in her comforting hold as she rubs his back. He has yet to admit it aloud, but perhaps he truly is more ill than he first thought. But he has never missed a meeting nor a gathering, and regardless of how unlike himself he feels at this present moment, he is resolved to be present as his duties demand. ]

I shall, and I assure you, I will take every effort to be home at the expected hour so as not to waste a moment of your time. [ Her time at home with him in Ishgard is limited, and he does not intend to miss a moment of it.

But no sooner does he have that thought than the need for sleep that he has tried to keep at bay reasserts itself. His eyelids suddenly feel heavy, but he knows he does not wish to drift off just yet. She succeeds in lulling him to sleep, however, and as his sleepiness begins to pull him down, he reaches out to take hold of her hand.

His sleep is finally restful, and as he slumbers, he does not dream. He remains asleep even when Alkaid awakens hours later and moves from the bed, and it is not until several more hours pass that he stirs and his eyes slowly begin to open. For a moment, he simply lies there, looking up at the ceiling of the room, when he realizes that the sun has fully risen and is shining into the room through the curtains.

With that realization comes the knowledge that he is late to joining the Houses of Lords and Commons, and he sits upright with a start. It is not too late for him to make an appearance there, although his lateness will surely garner some questions. But he must see to his duties, and so he begins trying to prepare for the long day ahead, doing his best to ignore the lingering fever and the unsteadiness in his gait as he moves around the room.

Of course, although he tries, it does not quite work as well as he hoped, and he catches himself on the edge of the bed, barely managing to right himself, avoiding a rather ungraceful tumble.

Too late to conceal the sound, he hears hurried steps approaching down the hall, and he freezes in place just as the door opens and Alkaid peers in. Unsure of how to explain himself, he simply straightens up and tries his best to appear unbothered as if he had not just tripped over his own feet. ]

how long can we go!? we're gonna find out

[shepherdtostars]

[ Alkaid steps further into the room, eyes running over him to observe how he stands and moves. She pauses and her ears tilt down towards her head. There is a worry he would have panicked at the thought that she might not be there, or that the believed she left without a word. A pause happens before she slowly makes her way over to him, hands hesitantly reaching out to his arm, but she never quite finishes the motion. ]

Are you hurt? It sounded like... [ Alkaid's voice trails off and she presses her ears to her head fully now. ] Come now, get yourself back to bed, Aymeric. Let me see to your temperature.

[ A hand lifts once more and she gestures back to the bed. ] I'll see to a fresh nightshirt and that breakfast is brought for you.

rubs hands together. challenge accepted

[thewayforpeace]

[ As she steps into the room and surveys her, his posture seems to speak volumes. He knows that he acted rashly by leaving the bed before he was ready, but his duties and responsibilities will not go away whether he is well or not. And whether or not it is grounded in reality or in his own self-reproach, he knows that he cannot let his people down by not doing his job to the best of his ability every time.

Any thoughts or fears that she might have left him without saying goodbye have not entered his mind. He knows she longs to be here with him as well, and so he refuses to think that she would do such a thing. No, what troubles him is the notion that he is continuing to fail his city and those who look to him for guidance. ]

I am unhurt, but I suppose it would have been my own fault if I had been. [ But as she continues, he shakes his head. ]

There are many things that require my attention within the Houses, and I am already late. They will be wondering where I am.

[ But returning to their bed is quite the tempting thought, one that he desperately tries to push away simply because he cannot sleep the day away no matter how he feels. ]

I suppose that I could remain to share breakfast with you, but then I must go. [ And offer many apologies for his lateness. ]

yknow, our long threads probably equal out to the word count of fics.

[shepherdtostars]

[ She watches how he moves when he speaks, the tone of his voice, the look upon his face. She would argue that he cannot serve his citystate and people in the condition he is in. However, given his emotional and mental state the night before? Alkaid does not wish to press something that instead could lead to an argument or him further feeling as if he has let Ishgard down. ]

Artoriel already came to fetch you, worried that he had not seen you this morning. [ Her voice lowers as she suddenly worries that he will be cross with her. She stands by that she has done the right thing as the healer that tends to him the most. Yet, being his healer and being his mate are very different. ] You are in no condition to leave, Aymeric. Not without aid, and I'm certain you would not wish to appear to the House of Commons and Lords with me or Artoriel helping you to your office and meetings...

[ With her ears still pressed entirely to her head, she gestures once more to the bed to make her point. ]

He will bring the paperwork you need and will most certainly will answer any questions, and take back your thoughts and feedback. I requested it of him, and he more willingly agreed. He was not angry you are not well nor did he expect you to jump to your feet to join him. So, please, Aymeric. Return to bed and I will fetch a fresh shirt for you.

[ Then, her tail curls around her as she worries that he will rebuke the idea. Less for the hurt it would bring, and more for his own sake. ]

I wouldn't be surprised in the least

[thewayforpeace]

[ Once again, his internal conflict shows itself on his face and in his stance. The situation is not made any easier by the exhaustion that is still dogging him, but now is hardly a time for hesitation and questioning himself and his duty. ]

Ah, I see. [ He tries his best to arrange his expression into an impassive one, one that does not reveal how he is already mentally chastising himself for what is, in his mind, his latest failure. That Artoirel had to come looking for him when he failed to appear is nothing short of embarrassing.

He is not cross with her at all, because as always, she only has his best interests in mind. If he is cross with anyone, it is with himself. ] Surely the situation at hand is not so dire as that. [ A fever that has slightly lessened and a cough... Surely these are things that he can weather. ] Perhaps if I made a brief appearance simply to satisfy the other attendees and myself.

[ But evidently, his body has other ideas in mind, and as if to contradict his musings, he finds his earlier unsteadiness returning and he has to reach out for the frame of the bed in order to steady himself.

His lips press together into a thin line as his annoyance and impatience with himself grows, but he knows that she is correct. He is not in any condition to leave this house, let alone this room, and that admission hardly sits well with him. ]

I will return to the bed, but do not go to any extra trouble on my account. The household staff will see to your needs and ensure that you are able to have a time of reprieve as well.

[ He knows that her role as healer and his mate is of the utmost importance to her, but he does not wish to see her use what little downtime she has on waiting on him, when his present state of being is the result of his own decisions. ]

I would be glad for your company as always, but I would rest much easier knowing that your needs are being met.

[ Especially since he is presently unable to do so himself. ]

I should go back to tallying the word count

[shepherdtostars]

[ Her posture falls ever so slightly at the reaction in his expression. It does not take a mind reader to see that he is far from pleased from the turn of events. While Artoriel would come to check on Aymeric in a friendly way--perhaps one might with family--Alkaid worries that her beloved would not see it that way. Her hands come together to begin twisting her fingers in a habit that he is most certainly used to by now.

She merely nods to his statements. Of course, breakfast will be served for the pair of them, and she is certain the head maid will bring the medicine she made as well. Alkaid decides it is best to do something, and moves to pull the covers for him. Then, she moves to the drawers and pulls a fresh nightshirt for him. She brings it back, gesturing for him to remove the one he has slept in so she might place it with the rest of the clothes to be washed.

Once he has settled in the bed, she leans forward to test his forehead. Her cheeks puff slightly at how his fever persists. She takes the bowl and cloth back into the bathroom and returns a few minutes later with fresh water and a new cloth. She wets it, wrings it, then places it to his forehead once more even if he is sitting down.

Alkaid then sits beside him on the bed once more. Her gaze moves downwards before she inhales and looks back to him. She smiles at him, hands in her lap, pushing her posture to sit properly. ]

Well, since my lord cannot attend the meetings he wishes to, I ought to hold a meeting just for you this morning. [ Her ears perk up slightly from her head, after what feels like quite a long time, and she smiles as one might expect a Warrior of Light to. ] As I'm newly returned from the First, what would the Lord Speaker wish for me to share? Something you would wish a report on?

hehe who needs novels when we can write 'em ourselves?

[thewayforpeace]

[ He is not pleased with himself, nor the choices he made that brought him to this point. But beneath the disappointment he is leveling at himself, there is a part of him that is touched that Artoirel would come to his home in search of him. Truthfully, the other Elezen has become a good friend, and perhaps like another brother.

But these musings will have to wait for another time. He finds he can no longer resist the need to lie down once more, and when Alkaid pulls the covers, that is all the invitation he needs. He also removes the shirt that he has slept in, and while his skin is bared for less than a minute, he instantly feels a chill; the room is not cold, far from it, but his internal temperature is not what it should be.

As they both have already noted, his fever lingers too, and the discomfort of the chill and the warmth causes him to frown. But he does not wish to spend what time they have together in a state of discontent, so he carefully reaches for her free hand and takes it in his. ]

If you would, there is something that I wish to know more about. You spoke of Amaurot, and the great battle between Hydaelyn and Zodiark, as well as what transpired because of that. Will you tell me more about this? About the souls that were sundered... and about our own souls.

[ He might not have been there to hear these revelations as she did, but something is telling him that he subscribes wholeheartedly that they knew each other even in those ancient times, and so he wishes to hear more of what she learned about the past. ]