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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[ 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. ]

[ 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?

[ Well, he certainly has no issues with the two of them having time together that is theirs and only theirs. And so at her direction to simply have dinner with her and keep her company, he falls silent for a moment so that he might taste the dinner she and the house staff prepared and thoroughly enjoy it as well.

Because he would be lying if he said that the dinners he had had while she was away might as well have been ash in his mouth. Not that he ever told the head maid or the steward that, because he would never insult them in such a way. But his longing for her and the loneliness he felt was all-consuming and carried over to nearly every aspect of his life.

Now, however, he feels joy again, even though his loneliness has yet to fade in its entirety. He savors the taste of the food and finds that he cannot help but smile even as he eats it. And from time to time, in between bites, he glances over at her to give her a smile as well. Life is better when she is present, and even the very sight of her is enough to lift his lowered spirits.

By the time that both of them have finished their food and sat there in peaceful silence until she stands and places her hands on his shoulders and then upon his neck, he feels considerably calmer and more content than he had when he arrived home for the evening. And it does not need to be said that this is the calmest he has been since her departure.

But at her suggestion, he cannot help the look of mild displeasure at the thought of being separated from her, even for as short a time as it takes to take a bath. ]

I suppose that is the logical course of action, and yet...

[ He finds he does not wish to be logical in this moment. And while he has never been petulant, not even when he was a youth (although he did have his moments of being rather stubborn), he feels as though he might be that way now. Or at the very least, the temptation to act in such a way when no one but her can see it is present. Still, he imagines she might find a display of that nature distasteful, and so he resolves to not let that petulance show. ]

Edited 2022-05-11 06:43 (UTC)

[ While not hawkish, Alkaid does watch as he eats dinner. The smile--regardless of how small on his face--makes her eyes light up and her ears perk just slightly more. She smiles at him in return, the sparkle still in her eyes. Of course, with how well he can read her, he might still see how her own struggles linger in the back of her gaze and mind. Alkaid doubts they will ever truly fade. Sin Eaters are the light empowered just as the Void Sent are the umbral empowered. She is sensitive to aether, even if it is not as honed or at the level that Y'shtola is. Anything she can encounter like that will surely be unsettling and an issue for her in the future.

However, he helped her in her time of need, and she will most certainly not abandon him in any time of need. She would not have even without the spell of tempering, but the efforts seem doubled in a way.

Her head tilts at his words. Alkaid has already learned that when his words trail away in certain ways, he is arguing with what he wants versus how he feels he should act. Or, he worries of how she may take his suggested course of action. She shifts slightly to stand between his legs, not fully bringing them together given their respective positions, but as close as she might be able to. ]

And yet...? [ Alkaid lowers herself to press her forehead to his. ] Tell me what it is you wish to do, Aymeric. I will see it granted.

[ What he sees when he looks at her, aside from the most beautiful woman that he can recall ever laying eyes on, is someone who has taken her share of damage and yet still continues moving forward. He wonders if she is the stronger of the two of them, in light of how many trials and challenges she has seen and survived. He has had his share of trials, but in comparison to all that she has been through, his are minuscule in comparison.

That she has such strength about her is just one more thing that causes him to admire her and to love her even more. Not for the first time, he marvels that she has agreed to be with him and still remains with him even now.

Along with that marveling comes yet another argument between himself and... well, himself. He wishes to share a bath with her, casting aside propriety again, because he does not wish to be apart from her any longer than he must. But the age-old expectations for proper behavior are very well ingrained in him, and that is the part of him that argues against such a thing. ]

I know it is not the proper thing to do, and I can imagine just how many people would nearly fall over at the thought of it, but I-

[ Again, his words fail him and he shakes his head at himself. ]

I would share a bath with you and not be separated from you for even a moment. But I would understand if that is something you do not wish to do.

[ And then, an image springs to mind that he can scarcely recall, and yet he knows that it is something that occurred while he was far from himself; it is only a collection of images, including a tub and towels, and Alkaid appearing to be washing his hair. It does not take the most brilliant mind in all of Eorzea to know just what was occuring there. And yet when he attempts to take hold of that memory and bring to mind what he must have felt at the time, he finds that he cannot.

Perhaps that is one more reason why he wants to share a bath with her now, to fill in the gaps in his memory that he cannot seem to do on his own. ]

[ Her fingers move to be at the ends of his hair, gently stroking the back of his neck where the tension lines form. Her gaze softens in wait of his answer. If she were given audience to his thoughts, oh, how she would disagree. Any strength that she has to continue forward she has most certainly learned from him. Despite all that he had faced, and the seemingly impossible task that was ending the Dragonsong War? He pushed forward and he prevailed. He moved forward even after his own attacked him, even when his best friend had been taken by his enemy.

How could she not apply the lessons learned from him? How could she not push forward with her sister at her side in order to return home to him? She had once told him in the colder rooms of Monument Tower how their ancient souls were shattered to pieces and how it felt as if she had spent so very long looking for him. If that is all to be true? Then, she had to push through every trial to come home to him and to be with him once more. Ishgard may very well be his foundation, but he is her foundation. The rock that she has anchored herself by. If not for their promise to be together? She very much doubts she would have been able to push through all Emet-Selch had done to them.

Her eyes widen slightly at his suggestion. She feels her heart race and the beating in her ears again. It was something he had wished to wait until marriage for. Truly, would he wish it? He had also wanted to bridge the final step in them being separate all that time ago in Gyr Abania as well, despite the original intentions of saving such an experience for marriage. An act she is keen to repeat whenever they might find themselves alone with none others around, for being intimate with him as a wife and husband ought to be will always be what she wishes to experience with him. ]

... are you certain? [ Her tone is as it had been in Gyr Abania, clearly desiring it, yet wishing to make certain it is what he wishes. Him coming to regret any time spent with her is something she fears greatly.

Alkaid tilts her head to press her nose to the side of his, trying to calm her racing heart. Her tail sways side to side quickly, expressing the desire she does not say out loud. She briefly brushes her lips to his and instantly feels the pang of regret in not kissing him entirely. That can be saved for when they bathe with one another. ] Then, it will be done.

[ Her hands slip from his hair down to his hands. With one single fluid motion she pulls him to stand with her. The smile returns to her face as she leads him from his study to their room. As it is the master room of the home, it shares an attached bath, and she cannot help the butterflies that are in her stomach. Part of her can hardly believe it is happening, while the other part attempts to remind her that there had already been a time in which she did share an occasion to him.

Alkaid finds herself thanking Halone, Menphina, Hydaelyn, whoever might listen that Aymeric does not remember that event to any great detail. The memories are painful enough for her, and she would not have him remembering it as well. It was something meant to be shared between them, something intimate and private, and yet it was stolen by the resummoned King Thordan. The anger and pain of that moment being taken from them helped to fuel her in her fight against him and she may never admit that to Aymeric. So many precious things she wished to give him that the primal had stolen...

She stops outside the door to the bath and turns to look at him. Her eyebrows are drawn together and the familiar look of hurt is in her eyes. Not a hurt that he has inflicted or suggested to her, but one of wounds that run deeper than she wishes to share. The door opens by her other hand and she tugs him inside the room.

Alkaid finds she has no words to say at the moment. Instead, she raises their joined hands in order to rest his against her cheek. She gently brushes her cheek against his palm, eyes closing as the emotions build inside her. Excitement, nervousness, longing, love, and the residual pain taken by his time being tempered. ]

I love you, Aymeric. I'd have you know that above all else. [ Her eyes close as she wills her tears down and presses her cheek further into his hand. ] Let me help you remove your armor first.

[ No doubt he will understand her unsaid meaning. ]

Edited 2022-05-11 10:08 (UTC)

[ Perhaps he spends far too much time wool-gathering and allowing his thoughts to wander. Inevitably, said thoughts turn to more negative ones, intended to chastise and take him to task for his shortcomings. He is all too aware that he is only a man: a man who has made his share of mistakes and brought hurt to others. The added reprimands from his own mind are hardly necessary, and yet he finds it difficult to cause them to cease.

Still, in this precise moment, he makes every effort to will his thoughts to go silent, at least as far as chastising him is concerned. He wants only to think of how best he can care for Lantaa, as she has cared for him numerous times by now.

It seems clear enough to him that she would share a bath with him, and he already knows what he desires on that subject. The very least that he can do is ensure that both of their desires are fulfilled. ]

I am certain... Perhaps more certain than I have ever been about anything.

[ His gaze travels to fix on the way her tail sways, an action that does give away her thoughts and desires and never fails to bring a smile to his face. She does not have to do very much for him to smile, but certain gestures such as that swaying tail do bring about that reaction more often than not.

He is quick to follow her as she pulls at him, beckoning for him to stand and walk with her to the bath. He, too, is glad that he does not have the full recollection of everything that transpired while he was tempered, but it does trouble him to some extent that she remembers what he cannot. If he could remove those burdens from her, he would without hesitation. By rights, those should be his to carry, not hers, but he cannot remove unwanted memories through sheer force of will.

When she stops and he takes in her posture and the look in her eyes, he is quick to reach out to place a comforting hand upon her forearm before she pushes open the door and tugs him inside. ]

And you know that I love you. You are my dearest and the one with whom I wish to spend the rest of my days.

[ And at her expressed wish to help remove his armor, he cannot stop the smile that blooms upon his face. ]

If you have not become so already, you are becoming quite the expert when it comes to removing my armor.

[ And he too believes that she may well understand what he has left unsaid with that statement. ]

[ Alkaid tilts her head with her eyebrows raised playfully. ]

More certain than your decision to sleep with me?

[ It, of course, is all a jest. She is certain this decision is similar to the one he made all that time ago in Gyr Abania, and the subsequent times after. Tonight is a night she would wish to spend intimately with him as well, should that be what he desires.

Her heart beats faster at his reaffirmation with a blush taking her face. It deepens as she does indeed catch his secondary meaning. Her tail sways more. She then takes to undoing the buckles and latches on the inside of his armor, giving him the space to remove it if he so wishes. With everything loosened, she turns to setting up their bath and filling the tub.

Her hands move to the back of her dress to start undoing the laces. Then, she pauses. Alkaid turns her eyes to Aymeric, trying to see if he would wish to undress her or if she should set about it herself. ]

[ He tilts his head to one side in a somewhat exaggerated motion, but he is genuinely pondering that even if he is trying to be a little bit playful at the same time. He cannot recall the last time he even attempted something like playfulness, which is just another way that she is bringing him out of his shell. ]

I think that I am every bit as certain now as I was then. I suppose I should say that as far as those two things are concerned, I am more certain about wanting them than I have been about anything else. [ He attempts to keep a straight face, but he is unable to stop the smile that spreads, indicating how truly happy he is to have her with him by his side.

Once the latches and buckles are properly loosened, he removes the various pieces, placing them carefully to one side until they have all been discarded in the neatest pile that he can manage. With that task done, he turns his attention to her. ]

Might I assist you with your own attire? [ He is already reaching for her, but he holds back at the last moment as if waiting for her permission or lack of it. ]

[ She puffs her cheeks out ever so slightly at his playful remarks. Not that she rejects the notion. She merely means to play along with his. Then, she twitches her ears playfully as well. ]

Then, as your lady-wife to be, I will need to make sure that such certainties are addressed.

[ Alkaid notes he will need to have his undershirt and rest of his garments removed once hers are taken care of. She only places hers first as she can tell the hesitation in his hand. Her eyes drop to his hand, then after a moment, slowly raise to his again. The playful smile turns in to an alluring one and her tail begins to slowly move from side to side. In one shrugging motion, she adjusts the sleeve to slip down her shoulder and around her upper arm. ]

I was certainly hoping my lord would be able to aid me. Especially with the bow that sits above my tail... both things are rather hard to reach, you see...

[ Oh, there have been so many times now that he very nearly let his desires take the lead and do what he has wanted to do for some time, namely touch and stroke her tail along with her ears. Perhaps others would be offended by such things, but her ears are rather soft, and he can only imagine what her tail must feel like.

It seems to him that she is only encouraging him to follow along with his desires, and the temptation to do so has risen higher than ever before.

Not trusting his voice to even speak audible words, he feels his eyes widen, pupils dilating with desire and an unbridled need to just be with her as one would be with his lady-wife. The way she smiles at him is stirring up feelings deep inside, and while this is not the first time he has felt such things, it is one of the few occasions he can recall that his feelings have threatened to run away from him.

And those feelings only grow in strength the moment she slides her sleeve down, baring her shoulder and the smooth skin there. His hands begin to shake, not from fear but from sheer desire and need.

With one step, he closes what little space remains between them and one hand goes to her other arm, sliding down the other sleeve, while his other hand moves to the bow above her tail. His fingers brush against the fabric there as if he is working up the nerve to reach for her tail that is so close now. ]

[ If others are offended then that is their reaction. She finds no offense in any way he wishes to touch her. Small sparks are left along her skin whenever he touches her, but even more so in moments like this. She is usually the one quick to passions and leading him along the way. Often she feels as if it may be unwanted or unseemly.

Perhaps now might be one of the few times it is not.

She takes in his reactions and how he seems to fight to keep the composure that comes with being an Ishgardian. Her beckoning smile softens in a way that speaks of welcoming him closer. She has always desires him and will always do so. Yet, she knows he still has boundaries he would not wish to cross yet.

Alkaid tilts her head back to look at him as he closes the distance between them. Her breathing hitches the moment his hand touches her shoulder to pull her sleeve down. Then, she shivers in excitement. She can feel his fingers above her tail and it takes everything in her not to simply melt on the spot and ask him to do as he would. They still have a bath to attend...

Her eyes flutter shut with his other hand brushing the fabric down her arm. A shaking exhale leaves her. The laces were already loose on her dress, allowing it to pull slightly from her. Of course, a pair of small clothes remain underneath her dress, but he most certainly has a particular view if he looks down at her.

A hand raises to rest on his at her arm to encourage him. Her tail sways, brushing against his hand as well. ]

[ He would be the first to admit that little by little, he has begun placing those boundaries to the side. Is it improper? Perhaps. But with how often she is away and with how long she is away, there have been several times now where he let his desires take the lead, and he does not regret even a single one of them.

The view before him does not go unnoticed, and she might notice how a slight tremor takes hold of him as if his passions are rising in response to their closeness and the sight of her. Seeing her always excites him, but this is a rather different kind of seeing, at least in his mind.

He continues slowly sliding her dress down and off her with one hand, while the other hovers near her tail. Why he hesitates to complete this action that he has secretly longed to do, even he isn't certain.

But when her tail sways and brushes against his hand, he takes that as a sign that it is high time he let caution go and let his desires take over once more. His hand lightly rests on the base of her tail, nearest the part of the dress with the bow on it, fingers moving to curl equally lightly around it.

And there, he pauses, waiting to see if she pulls away or gives him permission to continue. ]

[ Her eyes flutter open as she indeed feels him tremor. They immediately go to his own where she offers a gentle smile. He has always struggled with allowing his passions to take him or not. Now, just as it has been with her, if he would rather wait then she can. Her statement seems to be answered as he guides her dress down with one hand his other to curl around the bow by her tail. Alkaid inhales sharply, visibly shivering at the feel of his fingers along her.

It truly has been far too long since she felt him.

Their time apart has numbered longer in months, but this small span of time apart has felt like an eternity. She leans back against him entirely with her fingers trailing along his clothed arm.

A new sort of thrill takes her as his fingers brush along the base of her tail. Her breathing quickens again. Butterflies feel as if they form in her stomach. The temptation to forgo the bath and simply melt into him pounds in her chest. The two-toned eyes raise to lock with his as their color darkens. She wished he might be comfortable enough to take the lead and do as he would wish. A part of her cannot help but feel her desire rise at the idea of him directing her and claiming her as his...

Once the bow is seen to on the back, she shimmies easily out of her dress when she focuses her wits. An easy kick is given to the dress to move it to the side. She still remains in her small clothes, but half turns in order to place both her hands on his chest.

She swallows the desire bubbling inside of her long enough to at least speak. Her eyes remain darkened and her tail moves to sit in his hand. She shivers again at the touch, but presses on ]

Shall I finish seeing to my lord?

Edited 2022-05-14 18:14 (UTC)

[ In his mind, the time for waiting has long since passed. With their time together having as many constraints upon it as it does, he does not wish to waste a moment of it. Perhaps one might say that it is unwise to check off milestones such as being intimate in various ways before their wedding, as what will they have to look forward to as they venture forth as a married couple? Part of Aymeric scoffs at that notion, because he is certain that the two of them will find many and more ways to excite themselves and ignite passions in each other as they go forth from here.

Now that he has crossed that proverbial bridge and his hand rests upon her tail, he slowly begins moving it downwards, intending to do so until he has reached its end. And then perhaps he may start over, if such a thing agrees with her.

Of course, he does have to move his hand for a moment while she finishes removing her dress, and once that is done, he wonders what he ought to do now. She answers that for him by placing her tail in his hand, and he once again wraps his fingers around it lightly. ]

Your... Your lord would like that very much. [ He also has to swallow what feels like a lump in his throat in order to speak, because his desire to touch her and to be touched by her is only growing with every passing minute. He had not realized just how much he wished to pace himself in her hands and let her see to him. And perhaps once that has been done, he shall see to her as well... and in a way that concerns more than simply removing her dress. ]

[ There will be plenty of things for them to share and explore after marriage. In her mind, they are already lord and lady. She does not speak of it out loud as it would be improper. However, she still wishes to see the day where they will be joined by the law and under the eyes of his patron goddesses.

She shivers one again as his hand travels down the length of her tail. A pleased sound leaves her despite her best attempts. Alkaid leans fully against him once more, feeling as if small shocks have traveled up her spine and to the tips of her ears.

Oh, she very much enjoys it.

Her hands press against his chest as she waits for his answer. Her tail in his hand gently moves in anticipation and only stops once he manages his answer. Alkaid leans against him again, pressing her nose to his chest and looking upwards with desire. One hand reaches over to turn off the nozzle of the tub.

Then, she pulls away only to set about helping him remove his undershirt and garments. Her eyes stay on his even as he slips out of the remaining clothes. Alkaid raises a hand and gestures to the bath. ]

Then, please, my lord, enter the bath and allow me to tend to you.

[ She will join once he has been seen to.

Once Aymeric is seated, Alkaid moves to stand behind him. She guides him to rest against the back of the tub, angling herself so the top of his head can rest against her chest for a moment. It does not matter that she is still in her small clothes. Those will be taken care of before she joins him.

Alkaid places her hands at the back of his neck and gently massages the places where his tension normally builds. She smiles gently at him, the corners of her lips curling and an alluring look in her eyes. ]

What would you have me see to first? This--[ She presses her fingers against his neck lightly, ]--or this? [ She nudges the top of his head with her nose to gesture to his hair. The actual part of the bath, not simply just taking care of his aches. ]

[ 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.

BOOK 3: TWO-TONED ECHOES

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mehebeh a time skip involved >>

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aw cute icon

i need to make her ew ones...

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