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synthneon2022-06-08 11:49 pm
heranswers) wrote in synthneon2022-06-08 11:49 pm
Entry tags:
echoes of truth | ❝ to all of my children to whom.... ❞
Higher, o' higher
E'er our hearts endure and remain forever strong
Standing tall through the dark do we carry on
{ homebound.
When she had finally awoken in Mor Dhona, she learned that several days had passed. Word had already been sent to Ishgard--most certainly by Alphinaud--that the Warriors of Light would be staying until they had recovered from the taxing journey. Alkaid can only imagine that the news in such a manner had caused a certain Lord Speaker to pace around his study endlessly. Krile insisted that the situation had been taken care of and that she and K'thisru were not to leave the former home of the Scions until they were ready to make a journey anywhere.
Of course, that was when she had learned the Scions of the Seventh Dawn were officially disbanding. Friends and comrades that would aid one another, however, the organization's purpose and goal had been realized. The Grand Company of Eorzea could fend for itself and handle their own affairs without the Ascians to interfere. That left each of them to their own devices and able to do as they wish. Especially the Warriors of Light.
"A path in which and the end they will find happiness."
Alkaid had burst into tears once the Scions had left her and her sister to their own and immediately leaned on her sister. While the journey and the state of it all was not something she begrudged? The idea that she might finally be able to do as she wished and not be tied to the fact the Scions could pull them away at any moment was something she had wished for but believed may never happen. No doubt the Source and its reflections would still have need of the Champions of Hydaelyn in time, but for now, she and her sister could have lives as they wished instead of ones they were obligated to have. Although, she had made certain it known that the Scions were welcome at her home in Ishgard and that they were expected at her wedding.
Before she could gently pull her sister and G'raha along with her to Ishgard? Tataru had made certain to stop her. A package was given, with the express instructions that Alkaid was to wear it and give feedback to the business minded Lalafel. "After all, how can I know what I might and might not put into your wedding gown? Surely, you would not let someone else make it!" Which, of course, sprung a slight plot to mind. she most certainly did insist G'raha and K'thisru return with her, if only for a night, before shipping off on their next grand adventure. That way--for a time--the clan shaped of their adventures might find some time as a family before the parting of the ways.
As usual, they returned to Ishgard long before Aymeric would find himself home. Alkaid nearly drops the package from Tataru as well as the smaller ones in her hold as Mélodie quite literally throws herself at her once they cross the threshold. Leon is there to greet them as well, but even Alkaid can tell he is attempting to hide his relief and joy under his usual mask of detachment. Mélodie bursts into tears that her mother, aunt and uncle have made it home, and Alkaid struggles hold all that she has while returning the hold of the young Elezen. Her free hand manages to brush down the brown hair and she glances to Leon to see if he would wish a hug as well. As to be expected, he turns the offer down, but she has the feeling he does wish one at some point. Eventually Mélodie turns to fawning over G'raha and K'thisru, telling them all that they had missed and Leon helps Alkaid with the packages. Although she is very aware Leon has noticed the limp K'thisru walks with and the unnatural way that she walks.
The steward and maid set about to make a large dinner--but nothing grand as none in Borel Manor seem to care for the extravagant. Alkaid had intended to ask Mélodie if she would like to join her and K'thisru in trying on the gown that Tataru made, but she stubbornly informs the Miqo'tes that she walks with her brother every night to escort their father home. Leon shrugs, although Alkaid can very much tell that it has become routine instead of a clever way to make certain Aymeric does not work himself into illness once more. She bids the two hurry off, and then takes to a side room with her sister to change into the new gown, while G'raha goes to offer his services to the steward.
The gown fits perfectly, despite the fact it must cover the heavy sets of bandages still on her arms and around her midsection. It is a cream white, edged with frills and a large bow where her tail rests. Alkaid blushes slightly that even Tataru has noticed her preference in design. While clearly far from a wedding dress, Alkaid can certainly tell the direction the Lalafel intends to go, and makes mental notes of what feedback to give. She is in the middle of redoing the small braids that hang off the side of her short hairstyle when the head maid enters the room with a bouquet of lilies. Alkaid pauses and looks at them. A gentle state of surprise overcomes her as she takes the flowers. It had been something Aymeric and the children arranged to give her upon her return, but the head maid believes it might be best to crown the look off with.
Which is precisely how she shuffles the two Miqo'tes out of the room. Alkaid positions herself where the entryway and the hallway meet, while the head maid insists K'thisru comes to help her finish things in the kitchen. Alkaid watches her sister and the elder Elezen disappear before turning back to the door. She nervously twists her fingers around the handful of lilies, tip of her tail curling. The ache in her arms and ribs has started to return, but, she will push through it for her beloved husband-to-be.
Her ears lift as she hears the voices of their adopted children on the other side of the door. Alkaid forces herself to stand taller despite the pain and smiles at first Mélodie, and then Leon, who both quickly enter the Manor and disappear around the corner to hide. Alkaid glances at them, not quite certain when she became their surprise for Aymeric, but flashes them a playful smile regardless. Then, she turns her two-toned eyes back to the front door.
She had intended to welcome him home in her customary way, but finds the words caught in her throat. Instead, all Alkaid can manage is a wide smile as her eyes fill with tears at the sight of Ishgard's Lord Speaker. She shifts her weight from one leg and back to the other and her ears shyly tilting down. ]
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He did his best to be present for them and with them, and in turn, the two of them helped keep his spirits from falling too low in Alkaid's absence. After all, all three of them greatly missed her, and K'thisru and G'raha as well, and they hoped and prayed that they would return home safely. Aymeric still had his responsibilities as Lord Speaker, but before he even knew what was happening, it became something of a routine that the two young Elezen would arrive at his offices to escort him home when the hour became late and they decided it was time for their father to retire for the evening.
Together, along with the ever-faithful steward and maid, their lives have fallen into a sort of routine. Following dinner, the three of them sit together by the fireplace and talk and laugh and try not to think about the fact that there ought to be others sitting with them and laughing as well. One day, their missing members will return home with new stories to tell, but Aymeric and the young Elezens all know that that isn't what they want most: they simply want Alkaid, K'thisru, and G'raha to return home. And, of course, they wish that for all the Scions as well, but especially for those three.
But as they have no way of knowing where their companions and loved ones are, and no real way of reaching them across the distance, they have no choice but to go on with their lives as best as they can. Leon and Mélodie have each other, of course, and Aymeric does his best to make himself wholly available to the two of them when he is home. A part of him wonders if he ought to put aside his work while Alkaid is away so that his children have him there should they need him. But there is another part of him that needs the distraction his work provides and the opportunity to be in another setting other than the house that is just filled with reminders both large and small of the woman he loves.
As it is, he carries with him one of her ribbons, and of course, he wears the charm that she made for him. In that way, he carries her with him even when he is not home or near her. But more than that, he worries that he is not doing the best that he can for Leon and Mélodie.
But the two of them have never told him they dislike their present situation, even though Mélodie all but clings to him the moment they walk in through the doorway at the end of the evening. And so, for the moment, he takes himself to work and back every day without fail.
That is, until one day, word reaches him that the Scions have returned, and with them, the two Miqo'te sisters that have come to mean so much to all of them, but especially a small family living in Ishgard. If it were possible, he would take Leon and Mélodie and travel to Mor Dhona to be there, but there are still matters to be seen to here, what with the unease and uncertainty brought on by the Final Days. As hard as it sometimes is, Aymeric tells himself that he must practice patience and wait just a little while longer. But included in the report are words such as recovery and rest, which implies that all may not be well with his dearest and her sister.
That the Scions are capable of healing and caring for Eorzea's champions is not something Aymeric has ever doubted, and so for now, he decides he must wait for further news that they are on their way home. Naturally, he passes along his well wishes and his hopes that they will see each other again before too long.
The days continue on, and Aymeric continues his work as normal, because he cannot be sure when the long-awaited homecoming will occur. As always, he does his best to present a strong and brave face for his youngsters, but they are perceptive enough to know that their father is waiting and longing for their mother to return home, because they too are also waiting for that day.
As fortune would have it, Aymeric is none the wiser that any surprises are being plotted, and even when the two children come to collect him as they always do, he remains unaware. It is not until they reach the manor and the children quickly disappear from view that he begins to wonder if something is afoot. He takes several more steps in, and that is when he catches his first sight of Alkaid in her new dress and holding the lilies that were meant to be a gift for her upon her return.
He freezes in place, but his eyes carefully survey her looking for any signs that she is hurt or unwell after her long journey home. How she is holding herself seems to suggest that all is not well, but for the moment, he can only guess at what hurts she might have sustained while she was gone.
Willing his voice to remain steady and not shake when he finally speaks, he merely says, with the warmest smile he can manage crossing his face: ] Welcome home, Lantaa.
[ There is much and more that he would say, but it seems of utmost importance that he welcomes her back to her home and with those two simple words, express how glad he is that she is home. He does not bother concealing the happiness he feels that she is here, nor the worry he has for her health and well-being.
Finally, still retaining the knowledge that she may be hurt and physical contact will further cause discomfort, he simply holds out his hands to her, as if inviting her to either take them or slip into his embrace, whichever she feels capable of doing. ]
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Home.
Alkaid moves forward to join him, hand leaving the bouquet to reach for his. Her fingers curl around his with a slight tremor from both pain and pure emotions. She bites her lip before tilting her head down and pressing her face into his familiar armor. It takes some work, and a bit of strain, but she manages to wrap her other arm around his back. All of her weight for a brief moment falls against him. Her ears tilt down slightly as she shakes her head side to side. ]
I'm supposed to be the one to welcome my knight home.
[ She closes her eyes and no doubt he can feel the bandages around her body once he embraces her. She intends to tell him all that transpired in Ultima Thule. However, she feels most of the tale is not something to speak of in front of the children. Not that they are too young, but, she imagines it could be far too distressing given their experiences at the moment. A wave of exhaustion hits her as she realizes she could very well fall asleep against him in this moment.
One ear lifts as she hears Leon and Mélodie shuffling from around the corner. A moment later, Alkaid tilts her head back enough so that her eyes can meet his. She supposes now is the time to move to another room and show him the others that have come home with her. Although she would far prefer to lean against him in his arms for a time. ]
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Even looking at her now and taking in her appearance, he feels a wave of emotion sweep over him, and while tears might not spill over from his own eyes, the warmth behind them is enough of a sign that they are as present as the ones welling in hers.
But no sooner does she step forward to join him, hands reaching for his and her face pressing into his armor, than he encircles his arms around her, intending to support her and offer all the love and comfort that he can. When she leans further against him, wrapping her arm around his back, his smile grows softer yet wider all at once. ]
After all you have been through and with how far you have come, I am convinced that it falls to me to be here to welcome you home. It is not a burden, nor a duty I take on reluctantly but wholeheartedly. [ And with what he has guessed about her health, he feels even more that it is his responsibility as her would-be husband and partner to support her and greet her with open arms every time. ] And more than that, I intend to see you rested and cared for to the very best of my ability. [ Which, he knows, pales in comparison to her own, as he is far from healer material. But that will not stop him from doing what he can for her, and he is certain the children and the household staff all have similar feelings. ]
I do not intend to keep you standing for long. [ He can indeed feel the bandages beneath her clothes, and he feels a strong wave of worry and concern rise as he holds her. ] You have earned you rest, and I mean to see that you have it in full.
[ For now, however, he knows that the children must wish to spend time with their mother, and he will not stand in the way of that. He will insist that Alkaid rest before too long, but it would be doing them a disservice if he prevented them from spending time together. With one hand, he reaches for her ear to give it a light stroke even as he turns slightly in the direction the sound came from. ]
I believe that there are others who wish to greet you and embrace you as well. [ They have waited every bit as long as he has, after all. But even as he waits for Leon and Mélodie to make their appearance, he does not loosen his hold upon her. ]
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Her eyes remained close even as he embraces her and she leans entirely into him. A deep feeling of content settles into her whole being. Finally, she can be at ease and have a life with him. Such a deep feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction that comes from her soul. So much so that she closes her eyes and presses her face further into his chest. A gentle shake overcomes her, and despite her best efforts, a small but happy sound escapes her. Has he received the news of the Scions disbanding, or does he simply believe she will be whisked away once she has recovered? Will she, or one of his extended family now, be able to give him the news themselves this time? ]
Thank you for the flowers, Aymeric. [ The use of his name, as opposed to one of her other names for him, seems far more appropriate for the moment. ] I love them.
[ Alkaid tilts her head into his hand and rubs her cheek into his chest. There is a part of her that wants nothing more than to curl into his arms and fall asleep where she is. As soon as he turns and speaks, she knows that cannot be until later in the evening. The children come first and foremost, even above her own wounds in her mind. Alkaid squares her shoulders and stands up proper once more, turning in Aymeric's arms as she hears Mélodie's footsteps come closer. ]
Momma! [ The young Elezen once again attaches to Alkaid's waist. Alkaid herself shuts her eyes for a moment to try and hide the small burst of pain, even if her tail sticks out for a brief second. ] Now that Papa is home we can have dinner, yes? I think it's ready!
Of course, I imagine you're all very hungry. [ Alkaid casts a glance to Leon who merely shrugs at the notion. A hand raises to gently brush the bangs from Mélodie's face. ] Go with your brother to collect dinner. It may take me a moment to get there.
[ Mélodie glances between Aymeric and Alkaid before slowly letting go. A moment passes before she runs off around the corner and drags Leon along. Alkaid glances up at Aymeric and give a timid smile before starting to make her way down the hall. Her hand still holds onto his, the other still holding the flowers they had given her. Her footsteps are careful and light, attempting to be as careful with her injuries as possible.
She has no doubt that G'raha and K'thisru will appear with the children to help with dinner as well. While her sister may not have a flare for showing off? She knows G'raha still has a bit of theatrics in him. ]
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[ Well, Mélodie intends to latch onto Alkaid as much as possible, and Leon seems inclined to keep a protective watch over all of them from afar. But Aymeric knows that both of the young Elezen feel much the same way as he does. ]
I suppose it is not entirely giving away the surprise, but I intend to bring you flowers as often as I am able. If they bring a smile to your face, that is reason enough for me.
[ And, truth be told, he would be quite content carrying her to their bedroom, ensuring that she is comfortable, and then spend whatever hours remain before sleep takes them both holding her. But the children have watched and waited for their mother as well, and so the last thing he intends is to stand in the way of their reunion.
No sooner does that thought enter his mind than he hears the oncoming rush of small footsteps, and quickly enough, Mélodie is all but glued to her mother's waist. Aymeric's smile remains in place, but his ever-watchful eyes note the way Alkaid's tail sticks out and the way she closes her eyes for a moment.
But rather than draw attention to it right now, he merely nods along with Alkaid's words and also somewhat playfully (for him, at least) shoos the two youngsters on their way.
And when Alkaid begins making her way down the hall to join them, he is quick to follow, hand squeezing hers in return while his other arm circles around her to offer his support. He would offer to carry her there, but such a thing might cause the children to fret. Still, he cannot stop himself from doing his own fretting and worrying, but he tries to keep that from showing on his face. ]
Would the sitting room be more comfortable than the dining room? [ He imagines so, given her still-injured state. Naturally, he would insist upon what is the more comfortable option, but he decides he should at least let her choose. He might still gently emphasize his opinion, however.
As for G'raha and K'thisru, whatever help they decide to offer is more than welcome in Aymeric's mind. But they are also guests, and he does not intend to be an ungracious host. ]
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[ As her sister is the one of the pair that is truly more like Venat: the adventurer who would see to traveling till the end of her days. Alkaid would never admit it outloud to her sister, but, she had felt out of place in Elpis. Not due to the difference in time. No, it was due to the fact that she wished to remain in one place and travel when the fancy arose. Perhaps she even imagined the look of understanding that crossed Venat's gaze without her saying a word. It makes her wonder how much of their ancient lives truly persist through many rebirth.
A certain sparkle comes to her eyes at the mention of flowers. Yes, she would very much indeed love such a notion. It is perhaps the one thing she truly does miss in Gridania. Flowers were everywhere, where fauna is far rarer in Corethas since the Seventh Umbral Calamity.
Once he slides his arm around her waist, Alkaid leans against him for the support her offers. She would truly prefer being carried, yet she silently agrees she does not wish to alarm the children. Although she is certain both of them have noticed how she is missing her usual energy and quickness in her steps. ]
I... imagine it would be. It might be for the best. [ Her voice lowers only in hopes to keep their children from hearing.
A look is spared up to him, only allowing a small amount of the discomfort to show just in case. However, Ayemric has ever been the master at reading her, and surely has noticed what remains unsaid and unseen for now.
It takes longer than she would wish to move to the living room, but they do arrive. She slowly eases herself onto the familiar couch with a small smile, placing the flowers gently in her lap. Then, she looks up with a smile at him. ]
Aymeric...
[ However, the news she is to share is interrupted by the footsteps of the children once more. Alkaid turns to look at the door with a smile as Leon and Mélodie enter in with a few trays in their hands... followed by G'raha and K'thisru.
Hopefully their presence is a surprise ad well for the Lord Speaker. ]
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It further lifts Aymeric's spirits to see the sparkle in Alkaid's eyes and how she seems to light up at the thought of it. He is further resolved then to move mountains if he has to, in order to find flowers for her.
And perhaps when it is finally time for them to retire, then he shall sweep his dearest in his arms and carry her to their bed. ]
Then that is what we shall do. [ He trusts the house staff to see what is needed and adjust their plans accordingly, and true to form, even as he is ensuring she is as comfortable as possible, he hears the sound of approaching footsteps.
Knowing that there is very little time before they are joined by the children, he turns his gaze back to her. ] What is it? Is there something that you have need of?
[ But there is no time to hear her answer, as not only the children have arrived, but also none other than K'thisru and G'raha. Aymeric's eyebrows lift and a surprised but warm smile comes to his face. ]
I certainly was not expecting to see the two of you, but rest assured that you are always welcome here. [ It pleases him greatly to have his parents' home filled with life and smiles and laughter once more. If it were up to him, he would ask that his guests never leave, but then again, he can hardly keep them here when he knows that at least one of them has a touch of wanderlust. He can hardly blame her for that, as he has a touch of that himself. But as Alkaid said, he only wishes to be home with his family. No amount of traveling could make up for what he has been gifted. ]
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Alkaid had wished us to visit before we travel back to Sharlayan for a time. [ G'raha smiles sheepishly the moment he realizes he used her adopted name. Regardless, he walks to the table to set down the first part of dinner as Mélodie places the plates down. His ruby eyes move to K'thisru, watching how she walks, ready to leap to help her at a moment's notice. ] I hope we are not intruding on your family reunion...
[ Leon rolls his eyes slightly. ] You're family too.
[ Alkaid nods in agreement before moving her bouquet to the side. She looks to her sister and smiles, silently asking if she is well or if her aches have started up again. ]
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He cannot ask these questions now, but he can give her an appraising look of his own, not even attempting to hide the concern in his gaze. And as he does so, he reaches for her hand to give it a warm but gentle squeeze even as he responds to G'raha. ]
Well, I am glad that you did. I imagine that you have just as many stories to tell as anyone in this room, and I would surely like to hear them as time allows. [ His smile widens and he inclines his head in G'raha's direction. ] As Leon has said, you are most certainly family.
[ And already he is beginning to think of the other Miqo'te as yet another brother in his life. There is much he still has to learn about him, of course, but it is not too difficult for him to welcome him into the family.
As for K'thisru, as she brings her addition to the dinner selection, she wills herself to focus not only on safely depositing the items that she carries but also on attempting to walk as smoothly as possible, not stumbling or tripping on anything. She manages well enough, but she catches herself just a fraction on the edge of a rug, causing her to have to quickly correct her misstep. She manages to cover it as best as possible, but she can't quite hold back the hiss of breath that escapes her.
Still, she smiles at her sister, not wishing to worry her or the ever-watchful G'raha who manages to not hover and yet somehow seems to be doing just that. It is a skill he seems to have mastered quite well. ]
I've told him that he is already part of the family, but I think that he needs just a little more convincing. [ If she were standing closer to him, she would nudge him in the side with her elbow, but she contents herself with a mischievous grin just for him. ]
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That alone is the reason she gives a barely noticeable tug to Aymeric's hands when the attention of the room has gone to the other Miqo'tes. A small and quiet gesture to ask that he sit beside her. She will apologize for the selfish notion later in the evening, but she truly simply wishes to lean against him for support and comfort in that moment.
G'raha's ears barely lift as he sees how K'thisru catches herself. An arm reaches out to help steady the dinner selection, while the other remaining pulled back should she need the extra assistance. Leon's gaze seems to suggest he is more than aware of the injuries plaguing both the Warriors of Light and simply chooses to remain silent. ]
Yes, well... [ G'raha attempts to clear his throat to remove the awkwardness around him. ] A youth spent in Sharlayan is far from what might be considered conventional for a Miqo'te. Let alone a family of Ishgard...
Raha is far too used to keeping up appearances. [ Alkaid sends a knowing smirk to her sister's chosen before sending another to Aymeric. ] I wonder if it is a trait all leaders share...
[ Mélodie's gaze snaps straight to G'raha with her eyes wide. She leans forward, nearly knocking the plates over. ] Uncle Raha is a leader like Papa?
[ Oh dear. Alkaid winces slightly and gives an apologetic smile towards the once Crystal Exarch, knowing she has accidentally unleashed a flurry of questions that will come from the young girl. She leans forward, trying to reach out to her adopted daughter despite how her arms visibly shake with the effort. ]
Mélodie, dear, you're going to knock the plates off... [ she attempts to get the Elezen's attention, but she has focused everything on her adopted uncle. ]
Ah, well, perhaps I shouldn't... I mean... it is quite a long story. Perhaps we should focus on what your mother and aunt were up to? [ G'raha scratches the back of his neck nervously. ] Those stories can wait surely for another time.
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As for K'thisru, she gives G'raha a grateful smile, briefly leaning into him for a moment before she completes the action of putting down the items in her hands. ]
A family of Ishgard... [ As always, Aymeric chooses his words carefully, being mindful of the children and the fact that they are listening with rapt attention. ] My good ser, I believe that if you are looking for a conventional example, you may not find one here.
[ He is uncertain how much of his history G'raha knows, and he does not wish to unpack all of that here, but he can at least state that he is not a prime example of one who had a conventional upbringing.
But then he turns his attention to Mélodie while still keeping a watchful eye on Alkaid, noting how her arms shake as she tries to move. ] Be careful with the plates, Mélodie. But come now, if there is a story or two that you would tell, be assured that you will certainly have a captive audience.
[ It is his understanding that G'raha has had quite a life... or lives. ]
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G'raha chuckles nervously. ] Ah, well, I wouldn't mean to offend...
[ He then glances between the faces in the room as Mélodie huffs and properly sets the plates down on the table between the couches. He places a hand to his chin in thought as he wonders which story he might tell. He helps Leon serve dinner and finally decides on a tale, deciding that perhaps the story of Ultima Thule is best left for the morrow. Instead, he tells the tale of how he met the famed Warriors of Light underneath the glistening Crystal Tower. How they fought creatures from another world, and made fast friends, and ultimately led to him sealing himself away within the Tower. Mélodie practically jumps up in place once he leaves the story where it is, and Leon even is on the edge of his seat wondering what might happen next. However, with dinner finished, and the hour certainly late for children, G'raha promises to continue the tale another time.
Alkaid smiles at the scene, having needed to slowly eat and move her arms in different ways due to her injuries. Leon comes to gather the plates from his adopted parents, casting a glance at Alkaid. She gently shakes her head to show that she is fine for the moment. However, before the children retire, she would like their attention. Mélodie instantly moves to sit beside her mother's legs and Leon stands beside his sister, a curious look in his gaze. G'raha brings over the packages Alkaid carried from Mor Dhona and she hands each one to them. Mélodie squeals in delight while Leon merely frowns, quietly agreeing with the sentiment that his father no doubt shares: it is simply good to have them all home again.
Inside Mélodie's package is a small box with a familiar flower and a pair of seeds. True to her promise, Alkaid has brought a flower home for her daughter, with the intention of planting it once they find a suitable place for it. Mélodie holds the flower in her hands, transfixed as the way it seems to change colors with the various moods in the room. Then, Alkaid gestures for Leon to open his. A rope necklace sits inside with a brilliant blue feather woven into it. Leon removes it carefully, glancing up at the smiling Miqo'te. Alkaid explains the feather comes from a very beautiful small bird who sings a song of hope to creation. So long as her adopted son hopes, the feather will remain a beautiful blue. G'raha glances at K'thisru in wonder of how Alkaid managed to get her hands on such things.
However, with gifts exchanged (minus the small box in Alkaid's hands), Leon picks his sister up. He insists its best if they wish their parents and extended family a good-night here, and while his sister protests, she yawns and says her good-nights. G'raha joins the steward and head maid in cleaning up dinner. Alkaid turns her attention to Aymeric, hands with the box included, moving to push herself up from the couch. However, pain shoots up her back and she lets out a muffled whine. She attempts once more to push herself up before her arms give way and she sags to the couch once more. ]
I may need a moment to get up...
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Offend? Hardly. Perhaps you and I should speak together when time allows. [ He has a feeling that he could learn much from the other man, but that aside, he intends to further extend the hand of friendship and familiarity.
But his thoughts move elsewhere as they move onward toward having dinner together and being together as a family. It is quite a good feeling to have the house full of voices and chatter once more, as it was rather quiet even with Leon and Mélodie there to fill up the emptiness.
As the dinner concludes and Alkaid begins bringing out her surprises, Aymeric eyes them and her with some measure of surprise. He certainly did not expect her to bring gifts back from her travels, as harrowing as they were by all accounts. But just as the children are transfixed by the things she brought them, so too is Aymeric. The flower is quite exquisite, and the necklace is something unique as well.
Before too long, it is time for the children to take to their beds, and so good-nights are exchanged by all. Aymeric offers to see to cleaning up, but G'raha seems to already have that task in hand. Momentarily wrestling with a feeling that he is not being a good host, he finds himself drawn back to Alkaid the very moment he sees her begin to move and hears the muffled whine that escapes her. He is back by her side in an instant, and although his actions are quick, they are also gentle. ]
If you will allow me to... [ He slides his arms around her, stopping short of lifting her from the couch. He intends to carry her, but he waits to see if she protests. If so, then he will still assist her in standing, but it seems far more prudent for him to carry her to their room. ]
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[ How Aymeric seems to be taken away by the gifts does not escape her notice. Inwardly, she winces, fearing that the gift she has for him may not be as enticing or breathtaking. She imagines he will love it regardless, but, she still worries it may not live up to an expectation set by what she has given to the children.
Her mind wanders to familiar nerves as he moves to help with the clean up. Nerves that she has not experienced since a time, oh so long ago now, on the eve of Starlight Festival. A time when her hair was much different and her concerns had not been over the cosmic state of their star. No, they were much smaller concerns, such as if the man she loved with her entire being would ever except a small gift from herself, not the Warrior of Light. They were simpler times, and times she wishes very much to return to with the Scions officially disbanded.
Alkaid turns her gaze upwards when Aymeric is at her side once more, arms moving to be around her to help lift her. While some form of pride insists that she walk, Alkaid is aware that she is in no position to do so. She has pushed herself far more than she was ready, and the part of her that is a healer scolds her for such a thing. Still, she reaches up to wrap an arm around his armor pieces at his shoulders and nods. ]
It might be for the best...
[ She glances over to see G'raha giving her an approving nod that he will see to cleaning up and aiding the household staff, as well as K'thisru's own injuries. Alkaid wishes them a goodnight herself before both of her arms wrap around her betrothed's neck.
Once they are from the view of others, she relaxes as much as she is able to in his arms. Her head tilts against his shoulder and her eyes drift shut for the briefest of moments. Her arms shake gently with the way she has pushed them, her breathing slightly hitched as well. she feels as if she might come undone in that moment, but manages to keep herself together. At least for the moment. She still needs to deliver the news herself and see that he is ready for bed.
Normally, she might say that she had missed him, but the statement seems to be lacking in any true depth that she might share. She instead falls into a comfortable silence until they enter the bedroom. True to form of the house hold staff, medical supplies and bandages have already been placed to the side for their use. Alkaid smiles gently and supposes that now is as best a time as any.
She raises a hand to gesture that he place her down to sit on the bed. With the small gift placed beside her, Alkaid takes his hands into hers and squeezes them. Should she direct he sit down or is standing alright? She supposes, ultimately, he will act in which he finds best suited. ]
Aymeric, my love. [ Alkaid forces the emotions caught in her throat down and smiles at him. She squeezes his hands once more. Nerves and excitement seem to flutter inside her. The more she delays surely the more he will worry that what she has to say will be negative. ] I had thought that the missive from Alphinaud might find its way home before I did, but...
[ It seems this one time, I will be able to tell you before the Scions. ]
He and the others have made a bold choice. O-one that I am certain the other citystates may need to speak with you of in the coming days, even if I wish nothing more for you to be home with me. [ Her smile grows wider for him as tears gather in her eyes. ] The Scions of the Seventh Dawn have formally decided to conclude their work... and disband. The protection and inner workings for Eorzea will fall to the Grand Company of Eorzea, meaning that... we... Thisru and I...
I'm...
[ Her voice falters then as the tears begin to fall. She gently curses inwardly to herself, raising their joined hands to brush her tears away. How fitting that she cannot even fully deliver the news to him now that she is able to. ]
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Still, now is hardly the time for him to lose control of himself and his composure, and so he merely makes his way down the hall to their shared room, all the while being careful to neither move too suddenly nor walk too quickly. Once they finally reach their destination and she requests that he place her down upon the bed, he does as she has asked. He settles her down slowly and carefully, his watchful gaze fixed upon her as if wondering if she will be able to sit up unaided.
For the moment, she seems stable enough, but he is quick to squeeze her hands in return. There are indeed quite a few fears running through his mind, such as a concern that she will admit her injuries are far worse than she let on, or that she must be gone as soon as she is healthy enough. When she speaks of a missive from Alphinaud, a certain stiffness takes his frame, as if he is bracing himself for less-than-desirable news.
But he does not interrupt her, as he only wishes to hear her voice and whatever it is she will tell him. What she does say is nothing he could have anticipated, and his eyes widen with surprise even as his grip goes slack beneath her own hold. ]
The Scions are- they are to disband? [ His voice is hushed and quiet, as if he can barely believe the words he is speaking. And although tears do not fall, he feels water begin to form in his eyes as all the worry and all the loneliness he tried to keep sealed away threatens to break through. If the Scions are disbanding, then does that mean that she can finally, finally have the life she wishes for?
Another thought, even more disheartening than all the rest, tries to interject. Perhaps with the disbanding of the Scions, she and K'thisru will take their leave, perhaps together with G'raha. After all, the three of them are similar where Aymeric is different, being an Elezen, not a Miqo'te. It surely is not a rational thought, because now they have children to care for and raise, but he fears that she might decide to leave, for any number of reasons.
Still, he must know what she intends to do, and he cannot hide behind his fears. ]
What do you intend to do now? [ Her reaction is setting off all manner of warning bells in his mind; perhaps she is trying to find the words to tell him that her intention is to depart. Certainly that would be equally upsetting for her, to the point of causing tears to form and fall. ]
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[ A mild look of surprise forms in her eyes. What does she intend to do? Part of her feels it ought to be obvious what she means to say, but, she has never been full well at putting her emotions into words. The look in his eyes is also a familiar one. The expression he attempts to hide from many when he fears those he cares for will be out of his reach.
Alkaid gently rests the hands that have gone lax in her lap. Then, she takes his face into her hands. There is a small strain in her sides as she makes the small notion to rest her forehead to his. Her nose gently nudges his without ever once breaking her gaze with him. The tears may still be rolling down the sides of her face, but her eyes are bright and the smile on her face gentle. ]
I'm free. N-now, I would think there is but one thing left for me to do. [ Alkaid presses her forehead to his further so he cannot look away. ] And--[ she pauses once to force the emotions down once more, ]--that would be to take the name of Lady Borel.
[ She gently presses her lips to his cheek and closes her eyes. Her hands gently trail down his face to once more take his hands, but this time, she places the small box inside his hold. Her fingers gently brush the backside of his hands before squeezing them to urge that he open the box. ]
It--it may not be as something as grand as what I brought home for the children, but, you've never been one for lavish trappings or decor. So, if it pales, please do not think it is because I thought of it less. Or, even that, you are less in my mind.
[ Alkaid looks down to their hands and blushes deeply. Her ears tilt down as they had once so long ago on Starlight Eve, and it is clear she is rather nervous over the whole affair. Inside the small wooden box sits a ring--clearly of Ishgardian metals--with engravings made to look like dragon scales in the right light. There is also engraved lines that border the ring, when moved, show a blue that is of a familiar flag. Her cheeks grow hotter as her tail begins to sway beside them. She still does not have the talent of a goldsmith, but, those that she requested the item made it to exactly what was in her mind. ]
The goldsmiths of Radz-at-Han were able to craft expertly with metals I ordered from home. [ Her head tilts down and her shoulders curl, as if she is trying to hide her embarrassment. ] It hardly seemed fair that I had a ring to show and wear, while you did not. I know that the ceremony would most likely be different with an exchange of rings, but, until then... I hope it does not bring offense...
[ And that it is something that you like. ]
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I would be honored to have you as my wife. I am honored that you still wish to be that, Lantaa.
[ She could have declined; she could have said that a life with him is not what she wants. But instead, she said none of that, accepting his proposal and agreeing to become his wife. ]
For now, the knowledge that we will one day soon be wed is enough to sustain me. [ And even as she places the box in his hand, his answer is clear. ] Oh, my dearest, you do not have to give me gifts. You are enough of a gift, the only gift I could ever ask for.
[ But he does not hesitate to open her gift, revealing the masterfully crafted ring that is, in a word, beautiful. ]
Lantaa, you have truly outdone yourself this time. The charm that you gave me so long ago now was exquisite, but this- I am... [ His voice shakes, betraying how moved he is by her gift. ] I am truly honored.
[ With one hand, he carefully slides his fingers beneath her chin, gently tilting her face up so that he can look at her properly. ] I will treasure this and wear it always.
[ And having said that, he has but one more question to pose to her. ] Would you be so kind as to... [ The words trail off before he can complete the sentence. Perhaps she did not intend for him to wear it immediately, but wait until the day of their joining together. He cannot help but feel that this is one occasion in which he would rather not stand on ceremony, but perhaps he should not be so rash.
But regardless of whether he wears it now or later, the love he has for her grows by leaps and bounds every day, and he is certain she can see it in his gaze even now. ]
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My knight. [ She places a special relevance in how she says the word. He protects and shields what none other can: her heart. No matter where she has found herself--even at the edge of creation itself--his voice and presence was there to aid and keep her going.
Alkaid then gently presses her forehead to his once more. Her eyes shut as tears of relief continue to roll down her face. They can finally plan their wedding, and be as one, and raise the children they have taken in. It seems almost impossible in her mind after so long. A gentle whine escapes her as she inhales to keep her emotions as best to herself. Even if she would much rather let her posture slip and simply express all of her emotions of relief and joy to him. ]
Of course. [ She blushes more, eyes tilted up as he lifts her face. A brilliant smile is on her face for him, despite the tears and lingering pain in her eyes.
Her fingers carefully pull the ring from its fitted box and slide it onto his ring finger. The thought then comes to her that perhaps they should have waited until his armor is removed... but they can always place it back on if needed. A kiss is then placed to the top of his head, hoping that the ring is not too heavy on his finger.
Then, her hands move to the familiar sash on his armor. The shake remains as her head tilts. ] Would you like me to help remove your armor for the night, my love?
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As always, therefore, he pushes everything down and out of sight except for his love and care for her. ]
That, my dear, is why I am determined to see you to full health once more, and I am more resolved than ever to never leave your side. [ He knows that she believes him to be her knight and her protector, but what sort of protector is he if he cannot even save her from being injured? ] I cannot help but feel that I have much ground to cover and much to make up to you, and I intend to try to the best of my ability.
[ Protecting her heart is one thing, and he will always do so, but what of protecting her person as well? ]
I love you so very, very much. [ There is no doubt of that, nor has there been, but he feels the need to state it plainly now.
He watches as she slides the ring onto his finger, and once it is settled there, his smile widens. In his eyes, it is perfect, and needs no other adjustments. But when her hands find their way to the sash that he customarily wears, his smile grows even wider, although there is a question in his eyes as well. ]
I would welcome your assistance, as always, but would not doing so further agitate your wounds? Nay, I believe we should address those first before anything else. I do not wish to overtax you so soon. [ Or at all, as the case may be. ]
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With her forehead still resting against his, she gently presses a kiss to his cheek. She has missed being affectionate with him as much as she has missed his touch and voice. So much so, that she once again nudges the side of his nose and brushes her fingers along his.
Her ears lower in a relaxed way as he continues to use his affectionate term for her and her tail sways more. Her lower lip trembles, but she forces herself to contain her emotions for just a bit longer. At least, as much as she is able. ] I have missed you so much, my knight.
[ While her eyes are already alight, they seem to have another glow about them at how he smiles. He never seems to smile enough in public and so she has made it a mission to see him smile more in their home. Alkaid tilts her head once more at his direction. Aymeric is far from wrong when it comes to her injuries, even if she wishes to just curl into his arms.
Her hands leave the sash and she pulls away in order to gesture behind her at the laces of the dress. It is not as form fitting as it could be, most certainly due to it being a design concept of her wedding dress and because of her bandages. Alkaid does her best to shift so he might tend to the back of her dress and sliding it from her shoulders.
Beneath the dress are the bandages he felt. There are ones that entirely circle her chest and back, while others that wrap around both of her lower arms. Once he had said that he does not wish to see her with as many scars as him. No doubt that once he sees the healing wounds on her arms that he will be disappointed. The bandages on her ribs at least are there to place a balm against the bruises that can be seen peeking from the edges.
As her arms slide from the sleeves, she feels a familiar warm and burning sensation. She winces slightly before lowing her arms and attempting to hide what surely has started to leak into the bandages. If only because she does not wish to get stains on the dress that she is still attempting to get out of.
How to begin to explain it all...? ]
Where do you wish to start? I can instruct you on what to do if needed...
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His smile remains but it becomes increasingly strained as he begins to take stock of her condition and what needs tending to first. As he gently slides the dress away from her shoulders and begins revealing the already bandaged areas, the smile disappears entirely, replaced by a worried frown. There are so many wounds, judging from the vast array of bandages wrapped about her person, and once again, the thought that he has failed to protect her breaks through.
An exhale of breath and a mumbled curse escapes him then as he realizes blood is seeping through the wrappings on her arms, despite her attempt to hide them. Surely her efforts with the children and also during dinner aggravated the wounds. He may not be a healer, nor a field chirurgeon, but he and others like him have carried out makeshift aid in the absence of trained healers.
This is not a battlefield, and thus supplies and warm water are not in short supply, and yet he finds a certain tension settling into his shoulders as he recounts in his mind what he ought to do. ]
Your arms should be tended to first, and then the rest can come after. [ His tone is not as soft as it was just moments ago, having been replaced by a steely sort of determination to see the bleeding stopped and bandages replaced. He does not mean to attack this as he might a threat, because he could not be so careless, but for the sake of seeing her cared for, he has to seal away his worries and fears, lest he become too distracted to be of use. ]
If you will wait here for a moment- [ He imagines she does not intend to leave, but he makes the request regardless. ] I must retrieve warm water for tending to your hurts.
[ And before he stands up to briefly depart, he leans in to place a kiss on the side of her face. He is back before too long with a basin of water that he sets next to him within easy reach. ]
Shall I begin removing the bandages? [ It is the next course of action, but perhaps she needs a moment before he starts. ]
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She nods to his instructions. She leans into the kiss on her cheek and gives him a smile. While he is seeing to the familiar basin and cloths, she finishes removing the lovely dress. It takes a bit of work before she is able to lay it on the edge of the bed and settle herself back once more for him. In fact, she is in the process of doing such a thing once he returns. Now, she simply sits in her small clothes and the bandages around her.
Alkaid offers him a smile once more before raising one arm for him to begin undoing the bandages. After a moment of silence, her gaze drops slightly. He no doubt will wish to know how she received such wounds, and why K'thisru has a limp... ]
It took a very short amount of time to reach our destination: the nest of Meteion... the one behind the Final Days. [ She knows she has spoken to him already of their time in Elpis, meeting Venat and the others, as well as how Meteion had fallen. Thus, her gaze lowers. ] Her and her sister's domain was ruled by dynamis, and thus, they controlled every aspect of it. Their memories of each star they encountered was pressed into the dynamis there... and one by one each of us had to find an answer to the despair that destroyed their stars. Each Scion took up a battle against each despair, using their aether to create a path so we all might continue forward.
[ Even Estinien. ]
By the end it was only Thisru and I that remained to find Meteion... which we did, and, by using the crystal that contained our ancient magic? We summoned Emet-Selch and Hytholodaeus to our aid with their creation magics. It was enough to free the Meteion we had met, and return all of the Scions to our side.
But... [ she winces slightly at the memory and at the wound now fresh to see. The cut was obviously deeper at one point, but, has opened slightly once more. A wound that suggests the damage of a blade and, with his keen eyes, Aymeric could easily spot the matching scar on her other forearm. ] Thisru and I knew we couldn't face the Meteia alongside them... we had to keep them safe... and sent them back to the Ragnarok.
[ Her hand flexes slightly. ] Some how, Zenos found us there. He mentioned something of absorbing what was left of the aether of the Mothercrystal to transform himself into Shinryu once more... and took us to battle against the Meteia on his back. [ Alkaid shakes her head, as if in a notion she can hardly believe it herself. ] The only Meteia to survive was the one that we had met in Elpis. We shared all the hopes and prayers of all of you here, on our star, to help her find the answers she was so desperately looking for. She said she wished to sing a song through the universe of hope before returning home.
[ Alkaid's gaze drops further and her eyes close. Her hands flex. ] We meant to follow her back to the ship and great everyone before returning home. However, Zenos stopped us... he insisted that Thisru and I face him one last time in a battle to our limits... even if we had just faced the everything that was destroying our star, and helped destroy our ancient past. Even then... we had to fight him.
I had to fight him, to come home to you, and the children...
[ Her hands clutch tightly then. ]
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Focusing upon what must be done helps ground him, but he finds his calm shaken by her words and descriptions of all that transpired at Meteion's nest. He listens, and he is about to inquire about the individual battles the Scions carried out, but the pieces fall into place when she states that it was only her and her sister left at the end of all of it. That can only mean that in some shape or form, each Scion fell to whatever threats there were that barred the way forward.
His face falls even as his hands continue moving, carefully unwinding the bandages around her arms, and then dipping one of the cloths into the water so that he might wipe away any blood that has seeped through and soothe the injured areas as well. At least, he hopes that the warm water is soothing and not uncomfortable. Although he can hardly claim to have intimate friendships with each one of the Scions, there are those that he feels closer to and cares for. Estinien being one, and Alphinaud being another. Granted, he has not had many opportunities to converse with Alphinaud of late, but he remembers in full clarity the time he spent in Ishgard.
But by some design or favor from the gods, each of the Scions is still with them, and for that, he is grateful.
But then Alkaid goes on to say that she and K'thisru sent them all back to safety, leaving them to fight alone. He can understand why they chose to do so, but it causes no small pang of emotion, imagining the two sisters far from home and facing an enemy on their own.
He has barely begun to process this when she makes mention of Zenos, and that is when he all but snaps to attention, all but forgetting that he is meant to be easing her hurts and tending to her bandages. ]
Zenos did this?
[ His tone of voice is quieter now, but there is a hard edge to it, and a cold fury is blazing in his eyes at the thought of Zenos once again appearing to be a threat to the life of the person he loves most and her sister. ]
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Her arm relaxes against the warm cloth, causing her ears to drop ever so slightly. Ishgard remains cold, and while she might adapt to it? Any warmth her betrothed might offer is something she willingly takes to. Her eyes drift shut to find a sense of calm and almost relaxation--despite the tale she says--until he speaks once more. Then, her ears stand atop of her head and her eyes open to meet his gaze.
It has been some time since she heard the icy tone and anger in his gaze. Of course, she knows it is not directed at her or her sister. In this brief moment she is reminded why it was him picked as the Lord Commander of the Temple Knights. A stoic and kind man to be certain, but one that can recognize a threat that maybe no one else can. She lifts her other hand and gently places it atop his own on the wound he is caring for. ]
... Yes, he did. [ Alkaid knows there is little reason to hide the truth from him. Her ears fold down once more. ] He is the reason why Thisru walks as she does, and why it took the extra time for us to return to you and the children despite the fact we had returned home. He would not let us leave until the battle had concluded.
A battle that meant one of the three of us would not be returning home.
[ She looks down then as her hand atop his curls and the hair on the end of her tail bristles. While she has certainly caused the deaths of others through collateral damage? It has never sat well with her--especially on the First. One might think she could of easily taken the life of Zenos after all that he had done, but, it was still a life. One that she had to take with her sister. She is not meant to take lives. She is a mender, a healer...
Her gaze drops once more to her lap as tears once more form in her eyes. ]
We left him there... even if it was not our choice in so many ways. The Scions had found a way to bring us back to the Ragnarok, or perhaps it was Meteion in some way. But, he did not return home with us... his body is still there at the edge of creation. M-mayhap his soul has found it's way back to the our aetheric sea, but... even then...
[ She presses her lips together for a moment before a few tear slip past her closed eyes. We took his life. I took his life. ]
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going to fast forward a lil bit to the bath because someone only has one thing on his mind
for once it's not just alkaid with a single thing on her mind
he intends to be one-track-mind for a little while longer
she still luffs his one track mind
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/wraps this up