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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
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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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The fire that was welling up inside him begins to fade, leaving behind still glowing embers, but as he gazes at her, the fury in his eyes also fades and is replaced by a look of apology. ]
I am sorry, I am meant to be caring for you and giving you comfort, and here I am being distressed and more than likely causing distress in turn. You need to be resting, and I ought to be reassuring you.
[ His back stiffens slightly as a thought occurs to him then. ] Does K'thisru need tending as well? [ He very nearly drops the formality of her name but catches himself at the last minute, as she has not given him permission in so many words to do so. ] I imagine that G'raha can manage, but perhaps I should ensure that supplies and bandages are provided to him as well.
[ But his attentions are distracted once more, as Alkaid goes on to relate more about the encounter with Zenos. He cannot read her mind nor her thoughts, but he suspects that having to put an end to the man once and for all is not sitting well with his dearest. ]
If I might ask... Do you feel guilt, or blame yourself that you were not able to bring him back with you? [ It is a strange circumstance, because he cannot stop himself from feeling no small amount of anger directed at the man who is no longer living. But he is not cruel enough to believe that even a man such as Zenos deserves to be left at what might as well be the farthest away point that it is possible to be. ] Or do you regret having to be the one to give the final blow?
[ In either case, he would say that she has very little to feel guilty about, but he knows full well that such thoughts are not easily uprooted once they have formed. ]
Tell me more about what troubles you.
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Thisru would greatly appreciate the extra bandages, as would Raha. [ The gentle correction is followed by a playful smile and a nudge to his forehead. ] If we are to be married, my love, then they are family. Thisru certainly would not mind you referring to her as such. Raha... well, I think he believes himself removed from it all still. He will most certainly insist on tending to her. He has some knowledge of healing magic thanks to his long years on the First.
[ Her fingers return to brushing along the back of his hand so long that it is stilled. She smiles at him once more, nudging the top of his head this time. His question makes her pause and her eyes close. What is it that truly does bother her of it all? Zenos would not have a place to be buried in Garlemald as he is seen as a traitor and he had no love of his homeland. Perhaps where his body is would remain the best place, fallen on the spot of his glorious battle.
A sigh leaves before she rests her head against his. ]
What healer am I, if I've taken a life? It was Thisru and I, but... even then... [ Alkaid closes her eyes and nearly leans her weight into him. ] I don't recall most of what happened on our way home or even my time in Mor Dhona. Meteion's nest is ruled by dynamis, and so, things are created by emotional energy. Zenos pushed us straight to the brink. Had the transporter not arrived... all three of us may have been there... no matter how hard I pushed my body? It would not move more.
[ Her ears fold entirely to the back of her head. ] It was so much--I... [ Alkaid forces a long sigh to come forward to release the tension in her body. She is tired, yet she wishes nothing more to be in his arms and simply be as might be. ] I missed you. So very much...
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But as he has already been dispatched, there is no further need for that. He will simply have to find other ways to be the protector and defender that he feels he needs to be. For now, this is best put aside so that he can focus upon her as he ought. ]
Thisru and Raha, then: if you are certain they will not take offense. And I will pass on a request that bandages and supplies be brought to them. [ As soon as a moment presents itself, that is. He does not mean to leave her just yet. ]
Was there another way? With what little I know of this Zenos, I think that there was not. I do not think that all of you would have left in one piece, and I do not say that to cause you alarm. [ It seems clear enough to him that either the two sisters would have left alive or none of them would. But that hardly makes what they had to do any easier, and he knows that full well. ]
I am glad that fate, fortune, or the gods, or even all three, saw fit to bring you home.
[ He does not wish to imagine a world without the little family that he now considers his. And, with her added reassurance, he considers G'raha a welcome member as well, alongside the two sisters and the children that they have adopted. ]
I miss you every time your steps take you far from us. From me. [ But he is quick to lean in to give her a warm kiss, to further bring home the point that she is home. ] But you are here now, as am I, and I intend to keep it that way.
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Thisru will not, but if you worry, then perhaps you should speak to Raha himself of it. He may be embarrassed at first... but I'm certain he would warm to the idea. He rather things himself unworthy to be with us, despite reassurances from all parties. [ A small sigh leaves her. ] I admit that I am unaware of how deep the wounds for Thisru may go. I've been rather forbidden to perform any acts of healing.
[ Alkaid gently shakes her head to his question. ] I wished there was... but he would have none of it other than a fight to end all fights. He was insistent that we were the same as him: ever looking for new heights and stronger opponents to beat. I know such is not the case for myself, but he believed otherwise with every fiber of his being.
[ His next statement followed by his kiss makes the tip of her tail sway ever so happily side to side. A smile comes to her face. Her head tilts down to rest on his shoulder, raising her other arm so that he might tend to it. She has become cold to the touch due to merely the temperatures of Ishgard, and had not thought to ask the staff of the home to light the fire. If only because she is usually the one who tends to the warmth of the room when she is home.
Home.
Alkaid's eyebrows knit as the weight of it all sinks in. Home... without the worry or fear that she will soon be swept away to another errand from the Scions. She presses her lips together to keep her emotions reigned in, turning her head to press her forehead to his shoulder. She wishes to keep herself reigned in for just a bit more... perhaps she will finally allow her emotions to flow from her once he is asleep. ]
going to fast forward a lil bit to the bath because someone only has one thing on his mind
Perhaps I shall. I have not spoken with him for very long at all, but I cannot help but think that he has his own very valuable insights to give, should he be willing. And he should feel as though he belongs to this family- your family. If I might assist in making him feel welcome, then I will do my best. As for your sister, perhaps when you are settled and resting, if you will allow me a moment or two to see to it that anything she and Raha need is provided...
[ He could make further comments concerning Zenos, but he decides that they have spoken of him long enough. ]
Now, let me tend to your other arm so that we might move on to addressing your other needs. [ His fingers brush lightly against her skin and they instinctively recoil once he feels how chilly she feels. Of course she must be, as she is wearing very little at the moment, and the fire is not presently going in the fireplace. ]
Allow me to bandage your other arm, and then I shall draw a bath for you, as you seem to be chilled. It would not do for you to become ill besides everything else you are dealing with.
[ It does not take overly long for him to gently unwrap the existing bandages, cleanse the skin with the still warm water, then rewrap the hurts with new ones. With that accomplished, he gives her a questioning glance as if asking if he might lift her from the bed and carry her to what will shortly be her waiting bath.
If she gives her approval, then he will gently lift her in his arms, only setting her down long enough for him to see that her bath is prepared. Once he is satisfied that the water is just warm enough, neither too hot nor cold, he moves to help her settle inside the tub. Once she is comfortable, he means to help soothe away any other hurts or discomforts with the warm water and careful touches. ]
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