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

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

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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[ His mind has already bookmarked the notion that she enjoys having her tail touched and stroked, and now that he knows this, he is resolved to be less hesitant the next time the opportunity presents itself.

For the moment, however, his thoughts turn to finishing undressing and stepping into the tub in response to her urging. ]

Very well, I shall. [ And he steps inside without hesitation, settling in and allowing her to guide him to rest against the tub's back.

A sigh escapes him the moment she begins massaging the places where he is most often tense. She is so very capable of bringing relaxation with just a touch and a little pressure too.

He dimly registers her asking a question, and he has to force his eyes which have begun growing heavy to remain open so that he might properly answer and remain attentive as well. ]

I find that your fingers, and by extension, you, are quite skilled with knowing just where to place themselves in order to achieve the desired goal. If- If you do not mind, a few more moments of this would be quite welcome.

[ And in case she needs further clarification on what he means, he rises up just a fraction so as to press himself gently against her hands that rest on his neck. ]

[ A gentle smile takes her face at the sigh that leaves him. Her ears fold and her tail sways happily. The smile remains on his face even as his eyes move to meet hers. A nod is given to the direction and she then places a kiss on his forehead. ]

Rest all you might need to, Aymeric. [ Alkaid shifts just a bit in order to cradle the back of his head. ] Tilt your head forward for me and I will get to work.

[ Once he complies, her fingers do indeed begin to move. The familiar green and white light takes to the fingertips and moves down the back of his neck. She directs the tension to travel down his back. Her head tilts as she then directs his aether to where the tension sat. His muscles must ache and be tired. She would see that his body feel relaxed and eased at it all.

Alkaid's eyes fall shut as she listens to his aether move once more. ]

It's all gathered here... knotting and twisting. [ Her ears twitch with a gentle frown on her face. The knotting is not the same as when his side acts up. This tension is stress, yes, but so much of it seems to be of emotions and not just his body aching. ] So much is on your shoulders... the pain Ishgard and her people are in? Struggling to find the way to bring them all together for a single cause? Or...

[ Alkaid leans forward just enough to press a kiss to his shoulder. Her fingers trail down his muscles besides his spine. Eyebrows come together as she nudges her nose against his skin and continues to listen to the twists and turns his aether moves around her fingers. ]

... has the feelings of longing and missing gone this deep?

[ She knows, of course, that he feels just as incomplete as she does when they are apart. However, having him speak of it will help release the tension in his body. Her heart gives a painful beat. Her poor knight. He might never see it this way, but, she has done this to him. Hasn't she? With how often she leaves him when he needs her there as Ishgard struggles with her future after King Thordan had returned...

Alkaid shuts her eyes further and presses a kiss to his shoulder once more. Her fingers then move from the base of his spine to around his waist to hold him for just a moment. The green and white glow remains at her fingertips. ]

Tell me all of it, Aymeric. Every hurt that weighs on your shoulders and your heart. Even if you worry it may hurt me, voice it so that it might not weigh you down anymore. Let it all wash away.

[ Alkaid nudges his shoulder once more before returning her fingers to the base of his neck and trailing them down once more. She encourages his aether to move to the spots that must certainly be sore now that the tension has gone away. ]

Tell me so I might heal what hurt has been done to make it right to you.

[ He is tired; he has no problems admitting that much. But even as he relaxes in the tub and lets her go about her work, he finds himself worrying about her more. ]

When you have finished, I mean for you to have your turn. You have cared for me more than once, and I feel as though I have yet to repay the favor, even though I am certain you will disagree.

[ His lips turn up into a wry sort of smile at that. It seems to him that she is far too good to him and too good in general, not to mention far too selfless.

But he does as she has asked, tilting his head forward so as to make her work easier. As before, he tenses just a fraction as she begins to detect and deduce things about his aether and the way it moves, or doesn't. ]

Are you going to echo the words of the head maid, now? She believes that I work much too hard and do not rest nearly enough. And what is more, she believes that I worry more than is healthy. And yet I cannot help it.

[ His smile fades as his thoughts turn to Ishgard and the people that he loves so much. ]

There are times when it seems as though the way forward is hidden from me. I cannot see what direction I ought to lead Ishgard and the people, and then I wonder if I should not be the one doing the leading. Can I unite the people and bring them together so that we might approach our future as one?

[ He shakes his head once, being careful not to disrupt her work. ]

And, of course, there is no hiding things from you. You know by now just how much I miss you when your responsibilities and your path take you far from here.

[ He moves his arms then, folding them in front of him even as he soaks in the warm water. He imagines that his aether continues to twist and turn as the depths of his longing for her and the loneliness he feels once again rise to the surface. ]

I recognize that it is strange to still hold such feelings when you are here and when we are together like this, but... [ Those feelings have been his constant companions, so in a way, it does make sense that they do not fade entirely away when she is home.

Even so, he feels no small amount of guilt for that, because he ought to only feel relief and happiness that she is here and well. ]

I must ask again: what of yourself? It is hardly right that I place all of what troubles me upon you, when you hold your own worries and concerns. I do not wish to only cause you trouble, Lantaa.

[ As she has surmised, there certainly are sore spots on his person, but he is not thinking about them now. ]

[ Perhaps she is far too selfless to the point of it being damaging. There is always a need or a want to put before her own; some far away place that struggles and calls upon the Warriors of Light to aid and fix their woes. However, as she stands and listens to what he says, it is apparent he is in need of her now. Not just as a Savior of Ishgard or Champion of Eorzea, Hydaelyn's Chosen. As his wife and lady, Lantaa.

His request does not go unheard. She merely chooses to address it next. Perhaps this bath ought to be less of one by traditional standards and more as a soak that they have in onsens in the Far East. There are no injuries to heal by her white magic, but his heart to calm. She directs his aether once more to the places of contention in his back and neck before guiding him to once again lean against the porcelain and her chest. ]

People must wish to be united in order for you to do so, Aymeric. All you can do is offer them the path you believe in your heart is the right one. Not all will agree with you, and not all will enjoy their world changing. However, things must change, as I know you know. [ Her hand, now wet, lifts and rests over his heart. She leans against the bath in order to rest her chin on his shoulder so he might see her from the corner of his eye. ] You have allies not only in the Alliance, but the dragons as well. Perhaps you ought to seek the council of Vidnofir? I will gladly travel with you if you find that a plausible path.

As for what troubles me...

[ She gently slips away from him in order to stand beside the bath. Her fingers raise behind her to undo the ties of her small clothes at the top, then slides the ones at the bottom off. Then, her hands quickly raise to her longer hair still in a braid to place it into an odd bun at the top of her head. Alkaid slips into the bath as if it was the most natural thing in the world and an experience they have shared once before. She gives him a playful smirk before turning to face him. With one fluid motion she sets herself in the water to sit in front of him. Her hands move to rest on either side of his waist. There, she stops, waiting to gauge his reaction. ]

There were things that happened on the First, yes. Things that answered many questions that I had regarding the Ascians and the world before it was sundered. Even things about Hydaelyn, and so much more. But... those things can wait until the morning. I would have you rested and a mind not burdened by exhaustion and loneliness. I... I do not wish to pile so much on top of you once again. [ With a frown on her face, it is evident there is still guilt for explaining the things of the First the way she had before. Part of her worries still that it might be too much to come to terms with. ] I...

[ Alkaid's gaze drops for a moment. ] I worry that I'm the one that is still burdened by things we truly cannot remember in whole. W-what if I'm the only one that feels what I do so deep that it seems to come from my soul? [ Then, she sits between his legs, ears lowering ever so slightly. Why she feels what she does certainly makes sense now. It is her charge, her duty, the one she shares with her sister. Alkaid takes his folded hands into hers and raises them to rest against her heart. ] I worry that by attempting to explain how I feel, and the source of it all, that I've only caused you more hurt and confusion on top of all else that you are burdened with.

I know you hurt, Aymeric. There is no doubt in my mind of what you say or how you express it. A look overcomes your eyes and your posture. Perhaps none others can notice, but I do. What I wish is that you do not so much describe it to me ... but share that feeling of pain with me. Let me see it so I might help you push through it and try to heal what causes it. [ She raises her eyes to his finally with a timid smile. Ultimately, she knows that leaving again and again has caused him a great deal of hurt. If nothing else, she wishes to heal what she has done to him, even if the nature of her calling demands she be away. ] And, I will do the same, for I believe that there are no amount of words that can truly describe everything I feel for you. B-but... if you would rather not... then I will find different ways to tell you...

Edited 2022-05-18 05:56 (UTC)

[ There is a part of him that desires to see her put herself first, to think about herself and her needs, and what is more, to allow him to offer her the same amount of care and comfort that she has given him. Oh, she has not rebuffed him, but he feels that he owes her a great debt. It is not a race nor a competition, and yet he feels as though he is quite a bit far behind her in terms of the care they give each other being even. ]

Of course. And I cannot help but feel that not all who call Ishgard home are inclined to reach a state of that unity. Some are, of course, but there are others who do not wish for that. All I intend to do is extend the hand of welcome to them and offer my proposal; the choice to accept or reject it is theirs. The world is changing, and I speak not only of the affairs in Ishgard. Pieces seem to be moving, and I believe once they have begun, there is no calling them back.

[ His eyes do travel sideways so that he might see what he can of her from his vantage point. ] Perhaps another conference with Vidofnir is indeed in order. She may well have suggestions that I have not thought of.

[ But then she begins to speak of herself, and his attentions immediately shift away from his musings about Ishgard and their next steps so that he might properly focus upon her.

He notes the way she quickly styles her hair before slipping into the bath. His eyes widen when she does, and his mouth drops open just slightly as she positions her hands about his waist. He is surprised, yes, but he finds that he likes very much the notion of sharing a bath with her. ]

Lantaa, however tired I might be, I will always have time for you and for whatever you wish to tell me. You needed to tell me about the Ascians and that ancient world, and I am glad that you did. I must admit that it took me several moments to process all that you shared with me, as it was quite the weighty subject, but I am glad that you told me what was on your mind and your heart as well. And lest you wonder, I am wholly in agreement with you concerning what I suppose we can call our past lives.

Rest assured that you are not alone in what you feel. [ He would pull her in closer so that they are pressed together, but she has already begun to move, eventually positioning herself between his legs. ]

You told me once that I did not have to retain the mask of Lord Commander as I once was in your presence. I do not intend to wear any masks at all when I am with you, and yet- You surmise correctly, as you always do, but I am loathe to place my burdens on top of yours. You have aided me with them; you do not need to fear about that.

But I believe that I have placed enough weight upon you already, and if you are willing- I would play the role of healer for once, knowing that I take such things with the utmost seriousness. [ It is no game, not to him. Healing is what she does best, and he would not dare presume that he could measure up to her, but it is only fair that he at least try. ]

Do not take this as a rejection, as that is not my intent. I only say this because the scales are tipped unevenly, and I would see the balance restored, at least somewhat.

[ He hopes and prays she understands why he is saying this. He would show her all that she has asked for and more, but to him, it is high time that he care for her as a husband cares for his wife. ]

Yes, I agree. So much has changed just in the last few years since the Calamity. Power has shifted, wars ended, and alliances restored. Even the Ascians are gone; no longer to whisper in the ears of leaders to manipulate the way the world is.

[ She imagines that the last bit of her statement will resonate with him. While the relationship with his birth father is always complicated, Alkaid knows Aymeric still feels something for him. He must.

Alkaid freezes when his mouth drops open. Her tail stands on end with her ears drop to the sides of her head. Had she moved not only inappropriately, but in a way he does not approve of? She had intended such a thing when she said "shared bath", but perhaps that was not what he had thought. Her hands curl at the bottom of the bath. For a moment she debates apologizing and moving to climb out of the water all together.

Yet, he does not move to ask her to leave, nor does he demand an explanation. Her tail lowers back into the water. The ears atop her head remain folded down even once she begins to run her fingers along his. She listens to every word he says. While she does not feel rebuked, she cannot help but wonder if she once again has been too forward and should remove herself from the tub because of it.

Alkaid feels her heart quicken. He agrees to the notion of lives before--together. Of course, he had stated it before as well, but part of her still fears a rejection of sorts. The same part that fears he might find one better suited for him in this life than she can be. They have sworn a hundred thousand times to one another that such will not be the case. That does not mean the fear of continual failings in her mind do not press on. What would ever happen if she fails him too many times?

She raises her gaze to him once more. A kiss is pressed to his hands before she lowers them into the water. Her hands leave his in order to twist her fingers together. She exhales and looks to him. ]

Then, who am I refuse what my love would wish to do? [ A gentle and sweet smile takes to her face. ] If you desire to care for me in such a way... please, do as your heart wishes to do.

[ She will do anything he asks her so he might tend to her. Taking herself from the bath, turning away so her back might face him. She had intended to bring things to an intimate point. Although that may not be what he wishes or truly needs. So, as she had with the notion of playful games, she puts those plans to the side.]

I am, as always, yours. Do as you wish to and the things you would desire to do for me.

[ He hears her words, and he does not intend to leave them uncommented upon, but the moment he sees her move, even pulling her hands from his, he knows he has misspoken. ]

Lantaa.

[ She has already moved, taking herself from the bath, but he leans forward just enough so that he might try and grasp her hand or her arm. If he has to, he will stand, but he does not intend for her to leave the bath. ]

What I wish to do is to continue sharing this moment with you. [ He knows he reacted with surprise when she so suddenly joined him in the bath, but he also cannot help his reactions. Everything they are doing, even though they have been intimate in various ways before now, is still a relatively new experience to him. If his body reacts in ways that suggest surprise, he imagines that is only to be expected as they continue to move forward and explore each other in new and different ways.

His expression smoothes out into a smile even as he continues reaching for her. ]

Please, return to the bath. [ It is not a command, as she is free to do as she will, but the note of request with a side of longing is clear in his voice. He means for her to join him once again so that he can treat her as he feels he should.

It is difficult for him to explain, and so for the moment, he leaves it unsaid, but he cannot shake the recollection that once, she tended to him in a bath. At least, he remembers the feel of fingers in his hair and warm water upon his back, but more than that, he cannot recall. No one else would have done such a thing, so he is certain that it must have been her.

And if that is the case, then it is high time that he repay the favor. ]

[ His surprise has not upset her. She worries, instead, that she has upset him. Alkaid has always been aware she is very forward and upfront on wishing to be intimate with him. In her mind it remains a clash of cultures; a clash she desperately does not want to happen. She would much rather fix any sort of mistake and act as is comfortable for him than have him struggle more with desires and propriety. Hopefully it is the worry of upset that truly comes through her expression when her gaze moves back to his once his hand touches her arm.

Alkaid does as he requests the moment she hears the tone in his voice. This time she lowers herself slowly into the water, sitting in front of him, hands at her legs. Her fingers begin to twist one another in their usual way when she is uncertain or nervous. ]

I did not mean to cause alarm or any sort of upset. I should have been clearer with what I meant... [ Her eyes close and her ears fold to her head once more. Their ideas of sharing a bath had clearly been different. In truth, it is a simple misunderstanding. She simply is sensitive to anything that may cause him further upset in this moment. He may not verbalize how deep his longing must be, but she does not wish to add any other negative emotions to that this night--or any night. ] I did not mean to offend, I'm sorry.

[ Still, he has a desire of her, and Alkaid would see that his desires in all forms are met. She swallows the emotions of fear and worry before raising her eyes to him. The timid smile returns once more, not wishing to act in a way that is sudden or jarring for him. ]

How would you have me sit so you might care for me? Do you need me to turn around, sit closer or further away?

Edited 2022-05-20 00:51 (UTC)

[ He continues to watch her while still holding out a hand for her, feeling as though his heart has lodged itself firmly in his throat. The part of him that feels like an inadequate partner chastises him again, saying that he has once more managed to disappoint her, most likely because he did not make himself plain in what he intended or in what he desired.

He does not see their differences as clashes but rather, shortcomings on his part. They are no fault of hers; he claims the fault as entirely his. ]

You have not. If anything, the way this evening has gone is my fault entirely. You had intentions in mind and I appear to have disrupted all of them. [ A kind of darkness shades his eyes as he feels regret fall upon him once more, but it is gone as quickly as he can push it away.

This ought to be a happy occasion, not one turned dark by his own internal doubts and fears. And so he puts on the widest smile that he can, reaching out to place both hands lightly upon her shoulders. ]

I would have you however you wish to be, but for now, I would have you turn around so that I might tend to your hair and your back as well. If... If that pleases you.

[ Her hand reaches up to trail over his once his hands are on her shoulders. She does not wish him to think she has not noticed his attempts to reach out. No disappointment resides in her gaze, only a gentle understanding.

A note is made of the darkness that comes over his countenance before he pushes it away. He wishes to focus on her, and thus, she will address it once they have settled for the night. Instead, she raises her hand to brush along his cheek and her timid smile becomes a kind one filled with love. ]

Intentions can fall to the wayside for needs, Aymeric. There is nothing wrong with something else being a need.

[ Her fingertips brush his bangs from his gaze before turning so her back is to him. She moves back by only a fraction, figuring it would be better to be closer. He may be able to reach further with his longer arms, but, the idea to be as intimate as he is comfortable with. She drapes her tail over one of his legs and looks over her shoulder at him with a sly smile. If he finds it unwanted or uncomfortable she will move it. A hand then rests on his opposite knee, and a nod is given for him to go about as he'd like. ]

[ The fingers on both of hands curl lightly around her shoulders as he does his best to bring his swirling emotions back under control. As always, her touch and her smile does much to settle him down and bring some measure of calm back to him, and he finally is able to relax himself just enough to properly attend to her. ]

Even so, I feel as though I must make it up to you at another time.

[ But now is the time for caring for her, and he puts his thoughts and regrets to one side. There is soap and other items needed for bathing present, and he reaches for the soap first and a cloth which he soaks in the warm water before adding the soap to it.

With the gentlest motions that he can manage, he rubs the cloth on her back, first in up and down motions and then changing them to circular ones. As he does, he thinks of something he could say to fill up the silence. It is not even that he minds the silence, but he wishes to ask her things he has not had the time to. ]

Tell me something. [ He continues washing her back as he lets his mind wander to things he has always wanted to know about her. ] Do you have a favorite food that you enjoy?

There's no need to, although, I imagine you will find a way to regardless. You're very stubborn when your mind is set on something. [ A teasing smile is given to him.

Then, she glances down at her tail once he has reached for the desired items for a bath. He does not seem to mind where it sits, so she turns to look back at the water in front of her with a hint of blush rising to her cheeks. Perhaps she is overly aware or worried of their racial differences. Aymeric has never once seemed to think twice of it at all. Alkaid was never one to find herself a very insecure person, thus leaving her to wonder if it is insecurity or a fear of loss over any small detail.

Her ears perk at the touch of the cloth on her back. There's a certain spark of electricity that moves up her spine. Most certainly it is because of who it is touching her in such a way. Alkaid closes her eyes and focuses herself not to think much on his hands moving over the tightness in between her shoulders, up her neck, and down her back.

A hand raises to her chin in playful thought at his question. Have they truly never asked what food the other enjoys? She learned through asking the staff, but, had she never told Aymeric? Possibly not as life always seems so busy. The other hand rests on his knee still with the finger tips drawing random patterns on his skin. ]

Sweets. [ A very broad category. K'thisru and Alkaid have always had a weakness towards them. ] There is a Honey Muffin that they make in the South Shroud of Gridania that I had often in my studies as a conjurer. Bubble Chocolate that they use to make very rich tasting cakes. Hot Chocolate that they make here in Ishgard...

[ Alkaid tilts her head as she continues to think of the sweets she has had in various different places. ] Rolanberry Shaved Ice is one they serve in Limsa Lominsa despite the fact that Rolanberries come from Corethas. Oh! And, the Starlight Log that they make most in the Black Shroud for Starlight Festival. I had it every year when I was there... and it's paired perfectly with Eggnog here in Ishgard. And, even though it's not a sweet, Shepherd's Pie is always filling when K'thisru and I have to travel long distances. There's also an apple pie that can only be made on the First because of the fruits that grow there...

[ She comes to a stop then, realizing how long she has rambled on. Thank the Gods he cannot see the blush that has taken her cheeks. She tilts her head down, shoulders curling in embarrassment. There has been a reason why she had wished to share the food of different places when they do travel together finally. She would not call herself a culinarian by any standards, but, it helps one understand the cultures and way people live in those far away places. Which, of course, brings forward memories of how they should have been able to enjoy their first time together in a different city-state and the food there.

Alkaid pulls her hands back to twist her fingers as her cheeks run hotter but also a sense of sadness takes her eyes. She thanks the gods once again that Aymeric cannot see her face. ]

Despite all that... I still have yet to have the Crowned Pie that is so loved here in Ishgard. I always seem to miss festivities since the Dragonsong War ended...

[ If his attentions were not as thoroughly focused as they are upon washing her back, he would have placed a hand upon her tail as it rests upon his leg. But he is more than determined to care for her now and all his thoughts are directed there. Perhaps later he will give in to that strange fondness for petting her tail.

Eventually, he determines that he is satisfied with washing her back and begins preparing to tend to her hair. But all the while, he is listening to her talk, and when she announces that sweets are her favorite, a smile breaks out on his face. From time to time, the head maid tries tempting him with a sweet or a pastry, and now that he knows this about Alkaid, he makes a mental note to ask her if she wouldn't mind making some kind of treat for Alkaid. ]

Of course I am familiar with Ishgardian staples, but I must admit that I can hardly speak with any authority on most of the things you have named.

[ A part of him does feel some small amount of regret that he is not as well traveled as she is, and he certainly is not acquainted with the foods from other cities. Still, he wonders if he might find a way to obtain the recipes and see if he and the household staff might be able to recreate them there in their own kitchens. ]

As soon as I can, I will ask the head maid if she can prepare a crowned pie for you.

[ He realizes now that before he can begin tending to her hair, he needs to set it free from how she has it styled. His fingers have already begun reaching for her locks, but he hesitates at the last moment, feeling uncertain where to begin. ]

[ Alkaid tilts her head from side to side as she attempts to loosen her neck once he has finished with her back. Then, she tilts her head back far enough to look upwards to him. A wide smile is on her face with almost a childlike joy to her eyes. If she was not determined to catch him off guard again, she might even allow her tail to sway happily. ]

That is why I'll be taking you to any place you wish to go and try any food you wish to. [ The look in her eyes becomes gentle. She does her best not to think of what transpired in Limsa. While she does not try to hide anything from him--per his own request--she does not want his fragile mood to shift again. ] I have just the place I wish to take you on our honeymoon... but, you should be the one to pick which foods we eat while we're there.

[ She blushes again. ] You--they don't need to go to the trouble for it. I'm certain I could wait until the next holiday and make certain I am here for it...

[ And, Alkaid has already decided she is to make him a Starlight Log when the season comes around next. Though, she feels the ends of his fingers towards her hair and sits up straight for him and facing forward once more. She glances up at the ceiling with the smile becoming playful on her face. ]

Start where you wish. I'll be certain to be as still as possible.

[ Just the sight of her smiling helps ease some of the weight that has settled upon him. He is resolved to not pay it any mind, because at the moment, his priority is her, and he would not have himself be distracted, not even by the thornier parts of his own mind. It is not a forced joy nor a false one, but a response to seeing the woman he loves looking at him with such happiness that he cannot help but genuinely feel happy along with her. ]

Knowing that such things lie ahead for us both, I cannot help but look forward to them with the utmost excitement. To have the opportunity to share in a honeymoon with you and to see other cities outside of the borders I have known my whole life- it will be a wondrous thing indeed.

[ He knows he does not need to express the worry that some other occurrence will arise to forestall their wedding and their honeymoon; such is the way of the lives both of them lead. All he can do is hope that the opportunity finally presents itself and that they grasp it wholeheartedly when it does. ]

I am certain it will be no trouble. Ah, you may not know, but the head maid often prepares pastries and the like for me to try, and she is rather good at it. So I imagine when she learns that you wish to try crowned pie, she will be happy to make one for you.

[ Now that his attentions are turning towards her hair, he finds himself strangely hesitant. ]

I will do my best to not pull on your hair. [ And so, having said that, he sets to carefully working. ]

[ She tilts her head back into his hands. There is ever war with the Empire, and she has begun to think that perhaps they should not wait until the war comes to an end. Although, she doubts he would wish to escape away on a honeymoon if the Temple Knights are needed on the frontlines. The wedding can be a topic saved for the morrow as well. She intends for him to stay with her all of the day--a bit of a forced break from all the duties that she knows still weigh him down even now. ]

Traveling to places outside of the errand or duties of the Lord Speaker, or even Lord Commander. [ She lifts her hand and angles it backwards to gently tap his nose. The other experimentally moves from his knee to his thigh. ] I intend for there to be no business for either of us on our honeymoon. The world ought to save itself once and a while.

I never thought my lord was one for sweets. [ Her nose scrunches up with her cheeks puffing out for his amusement. ] I may have to keep this in mind...

[ Which, of course, would explain why the head maid was so willing to learn how to make the dango. It is most definitely better saved for the afternoon with some tea. Alkaid smirks at his hesitations and gently moves her head in a way to rest it differently in his hands. ]

I trust you implicitly with my hair. You're rather fond of playing with it after all.

[ The part of him that he thinks of as entirely too naive and hopeful still longs to see a day when there are no more wars and no more strife between people, beasts, and nations. It seems to him that that day is still very far off, and he is certain he will not see it in his lifetime. But to voice such a thought aloud would most certainly bring about upset, and so he keeps it to himself. ]

I cannot pretend that I am not excited by such prospects. [ His smile widens when she taps his nose and grows only wider as her other hand moves to his thigh. She could let her hands wander anywhere and everywhere upon his person and he would not pull away. ] That might prove to be somewhat of a tall order, and yet I hope that at least for that period of time, our friends and acquaintances can manage the world's needs. One would hope, at any rate. Never mind that such a hope is most likely a foolish one.

As for sweets, I never thought of it either, but with the various items the maid creates and presents to me, it is difficult to refuse.

[ At her words stating his fondness for playing with his hair, he startles just a bit, and this time, a blush of red forms not just on his neck but upon his cheeks as well. ]

Ah- Perhaps I am a bit too fond of it. [ His gaze travels down to where his hands are somewhat clumsily attempting to navigate the bun she has placed her hair in before he tends to the braid, and he pauses, once again hesitating. ]

Is this not to your liking?

[ The reality may not be a true peace in terms of no conflicts at all. They can eat least make things as peaceful as they can be. Such an outlook is understandable of one who has grown up in nothing but war and very little time to be free of it. Alkaid realizes shes has had a life of freedom and choice compared to Aymeric. If only she could give him such a life as his wife. ]

I would think that the strides in the Eorzean Alliance and Doma, that we could be afford some time for us. [ Her smile falls just a moment. The hope is indeed a tall order, but one she hopes for nonetheless. How can she not be owed some time for what she desires after all she and her sister have done? ] I asked you, so long ago now, to make a list of places you would wish to see. Did you ever make one?

[ As she intends fully to show him every place he would wish to see.

A gentle laugh comes from her at his statement. He may be fond of them, but he might find the sweet tooth that she and her sister share can be rather hard to quell at times. ] I will need to conspire with her then next time you see to work yourself so hard.

[ She glances back at his hands and smiles. Alkaid tilts her head back entirely into his hands, letting her braided hair dip into the water. Her gaze softens as a look of content comes to her face. Yes, she very much enjoys him playing with her hair. She would even ask him to do it more often if she felt it may be asking for too much attention.

Her hand stays on his thigh given the smile he gave her. She shifts so she can rest it on the inner part, but does not move it further. He may not wish to have such an intimate encounter tonight, given all that upsets him. He does not speak of it, but she knows there is much that is lurking beneath the surface. The expression he wore on his face when he saw her for the first time that night spoke more to her than he might think.

Now, if only she can have him give voice to it so that the weight will not press down on him further. ]

I am rather fond of it myself.

[ Her eyes drift closed as her head further leans into his hands to demonstrate her point. ]

[ It might seem strange that someone who so desperately longed for and fought for peace is also resigned to it never truly being obtained. There will always be wars and conflicts, and to hope for a time in which no one has to fight or die for any cause would be truly naive. Perhaps the kind of peace that Aymeric longs for is only a dream, something that will never truly be reached. After all, he can hardly imagine living in a world that is not touched in some way by war and strife. Although it is all he knows, his expression falls slightly at the thought of it. ]

Well, I would certainly hope so, as there are very few names that spring to mind that deserve a rest and a reprive as much as you. And that applies to your sister as well, naturally. [ Again, he believes that whatever burdens he carries pale considerably in comparison to the ones that rest upon the shoulders of the Warriors of Light. And with that in mind, he yet again pushes aside the weight that is still threatening to pull him down. ]

Ah, yes. The list. [ He did create such a list, although he supposes she hoped for a far longer one, but at least he managed to put a few locations upon it. ] I suppose it is still somewhat of a work in progress, but it is a start.

[ Lest he allow his inner struggles to take control and bring the mood down once again, he forces his churning emotions away from him so that he might appear relaxed and happy... for her benefit, yes, but also for his own. ]

Ah... Well. [ He knows that he is too prone to working harder than he should, and yet he finds it a difficult habit to break. There will certainly be many more times that he does just that. ] I would not ask either of you to trouble yourself on my account.

[ Feeling contented and also emboldened by the way she rests her head in his hands, he finally begins to carefully work on undoing her braid. It feels like a shame to undo such a pretty style, but he would see her with her hair moving freely and not held back by anything.

As he works, he feels the way her hand rests upon his thigh, and when she moves it to the inner side, a shiver creeps up his spine and a quiet sigh escapes him before he can hold it back. Of course he knew he could not hide what weighs him down from her, but when he speaks again, there is no sign of it in his voice. ]

Then of course, I shall continue. [ And before too long, the braid is loosened and he lightly rubs his fingers against the surface of her head, hoping that the motion and the feeling both is comforting. If she gives any sign of discomfort or displeasure, he will stop, of course. But his only aim is to please her and to give her even half of the comfort that she has gifted him with. ]

I will be certain to make others see that. Otherwise, we will never know a quiet moment on our honeymoon. [ The hand at his nose gently trails down his cheek once more before finally resting on his arm. ] A work in progress is far better than nothing, my love. Even if only one or two places exist on the list? I would see you see those two places.

[ For as optimistic as Aymeric is? He is a realist to some degree. Perhaps not the same as Estinien or even Lucia. There is just a touch of it to anchor him so he does not spin so far away as Ysayle once had. His dream will inspire others to reach for the same goal and make it as much of a reality as they can make it. ]

Tending to you is never a trouble or a bother, Aymeric.

[ Her smile remains gentle even at his reflexive sigh. There was not a worry she could not please him or bring him to a state of arousal. She is simply happy to see that his desire did not wash away the moment he entered the bath. If she will move further will depend on the way their conversation moves. She intends not to steer things in that direction unless it is made clear it is what he wishes.

That is, until she feels his fingers loosening her braid and moving across the top of her head. Her eyes flutter shut as a long pleased sigh comes from her. Her shoulders drop and her head moves entirely into his hands so he might direct it as needed. A shiver runs from the tip of her ears and down to her toes, causing the edge of her tail to flick. Without meaning to, Alkaid leans her whole body backwards to press her back to his chest. Normally, she might make a playful note or gesture to their now rather intimate positioning, but her eyes are still closed as she feels his hands through her hair. She shifts against his person without realization and a pleased sound escapes her. ]

Excellent. And if there is anything that I might do on my side of things, rest assured that I shall. [ He has, of course, heard reports of his fellow Ishgardians requesting assistance from the Warriors of Light, and while he will not begrudge them the opportunity to ask, at least while they are away on their honeymoon, he will ask for a pause in those requests. ] I must admit that the places that have made their way to that list are there because you have mentioned them, so I suppose in that way, they do not truly count. Kugane is one of them, and the other- well, it is difficult for me to imagine a place with near constant sun that is surrounded by beaches.

[ Ishgard has times where there is sunlight, but more often than note, as Alkaid well knows, the climate is cold and often snowy. ]

Oh, I imagine that it is at some times. Which is why I feel as though I must repay your kindness by caring for you whenever the chance presents itself.

[ And certainly, his desires have not been washed away by anything, least of all entering the bath. Truthfully, he would allow his passions to take him if not for the almost single-minded focus that he has on caring for her now.

The moment that she leans against him in full, his eyes widen with surprise but also pleasure at having her so close to him, and while one hand remains tending to her hair, the other circles around her waist and rests there lightly. ]

We may have quite the list of things piled up once we return... but, I cannot see why they would be unable to handle it in our absence. [ She pauses for a moment and smiles. Kugane is where she intends to take them on their honeymoon. Not that she will ruin the surprise at the moment. No, that is something she wishes to see unspoiled. ] Do you mean Costa del Sol? That should most definitely not wait until our honeymoon.

[ Then, her ears perk up as an idea strikes her. ] Oh! Once the restoration of the residential district is complete, we should take a vacation there. I am certain no one would begrudge the Lord Speaker leaving after such a feat is completed...

[ The tip of her tail flicks against his leg as if she has already made up her mind. Yes, they must go. It is in La Noscea, as Limsa Lominsa quite obviously is, without the emotional weight that pulls down in their minds. A climate that he is most certainly not familiar with or used to. He might finally unwind some and simply relax...

The thoughts continue in that manner even as her head tilts more into the hand that combs through her hair. They only stop the moment she feels his other arm encircle around her waist. Her body gives a pleased shudder even though she is able to keep the sound to herself this time. It is so very tempting to guide the hand at her waist to a more intimate area to touch... but, no, he wishes to tend to her. She will not derail the moment simply because she has missed him in all manners of ways.

Alkaid's eyes half open to look up at Aymeric. She smiles, ears drooping in a relaxed way, very clearly enjoying his hand in her hair. She presses backwards against him once more to encourage him to continue. Hopefully, if it does stir passions, it is not unwanted. Still, she is determined not to pull his attention away from what he wishes to do. ]

Well, then allow me to extend my offer of assistance to anything that you might require upon our return. Even if all I might do is carry messages or reports or even various items or other objects, consider me at your disposal. [ All he has ever wanted is to be near her, and to assist her with anything she might need, and that includes being her errand-runner if he must. ] I do indeed. I have heard of it, yes, but I imagine that hearing of it and experiencing it are two entirely different things.

[ At the prospect of visiting Costa del Sol upon the completion of the restoration project, Aymeric cannot help but break into a wide smile. ] Yes, of course! That would be a most fitting way to celebrate the completion of the restoration. We must do this, if the chance presents itself.

[ Little does he know that she has already resolved to do just that; there is no "might" about it.

As for the stirring up of passions, well, his passions have already been quite stirred and continue to be stirred as this moment goes on. Eventually, he finds himself satisfied with the attention he has given to her hair, and deciding to give himself a moment of gratification and, he hopes, further enjoyment for her, he begins to stroke first one ear, then the other, and switching back once more. ]

I was about to offer my services to you. They never gave the Warriors of Light desks to sit behind. Instead, we are the errand girls. [ A sad smile touches her face then. While she does not necessarily mind aiding the world and others? The expectation that she and her sister will jump to any bar to see it done is tiresome. ] They are very different things! Thisru has had more chances to visit than I have, but, I can most certainly arrange things...

[ She smiles widely at him with the tip of her tail moving side to side. She will need to speak with the Foretemps to help her with anything that could arise to stop Aymeric from going. Artoriel certainly would not mind, and his father can still have leverage despite his retirement...

Her thoughts are interrupted by the feel his fingers across her ear. The edge of the ear twitches and a shiver runs down her back. Her eyelids flutter at the attention with her head tilting into his touch and against his chest. A gentle "Oh..." escapes her and she seemingly melts against his frame.

The fingers at his thigh move to draw nonsensical patterns. The one on his arm gently moves back and forth against the skin. As always, if he had asked her to do anything for him, she would, but perhaps moreso in this moment. The temptation to swing her legs on either side of his hips and press hers to his rises once more. It causes her to give a breathless sigh and pleased sound. No, she will wait until she knows what he wishes to do...

Her ears twitch once more under his touch. ]

Ah, but I believe that it is time someone offers their services to you, and that is precisely what I mean to do, if you will accept them. Too often have you and your sister been treated as errand runners, and I think that ought to change, even if it is only this one time. [ But privately, he means to take steps to see that it stops, at least as far as his people and his city are concerned. He does not offer a comment inquiring about how she intends to see such a thing arranged, but it ought to be clear from how his eyes light up and a small smile takes his face that he is excited by these prospects.

Leisure time is somewhat of a rarity in Ishgard, even now that the war has ended. And while the war was raging, it was not even a thought on anyone's minds. So in a way, it is quite the foreign notion to Aymeric but one he looks forward to regardless.

With how close she is to him right now, the urge to touch something other than her hair and her ears grows, and he decides to listen to that urge. His fingers move from her ears to lightly ghost along her neck and further down until they reach her collarbone, pausing there briefly to gauge her reaction. ]

BOOK 3: TWO-TONED ECHOES

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