synthneon | echoes of truth | ❝ to all of my children to whom.... ❞

[ Mélodie gives him another hug as he picks her up, eyes practically beaming with happiness. She turns and points behind her right as Leon and the steward turn the corner. The steward bows appropriately while Leon stands just a fraction straighter. ]

We were just leaving to get you. [ Leon's remark is said as if it were obvious. Yet, the steward shakes his head. Ishgard becomes dangerously cold at the time of year the Starlight Celebration comes since the Seventh Umbral Calamity. He would not have let the children go out unattended in such conditions. ] I guess we don't need to now.

Momma is in the sitting room! [ Mélodie turns back to Aymeric with her proud statement of fact, presuming it would be her father's next question. Then, she raises her hand and begins to count down on each finger as to give him the report of her caring of the house that day. ] We began decorating the tree after lunch. Dinner is almost done. Momma had Miss Krile visit--I think she's helping make dinner? But, the tree isn't done yet so we can finish after dinner!

[ Leon rolls his eyes at his younger sister before walking with the steward to escort the pair to the sitting room. When they arrive, they find that Alkaid is already standing to welcome her husband home. Her hand is on the arm of the couch to steady herself, but, some color has returned to her face and her smile is wide at the sight of Aymeric. She does fair better than she had in the morning, but, she still feels weak and a lingering sense of nausea. Krile hasn't seemed as worried, so it must not be terribly serious. ]

Momma, Papa is home! [ The young Elezen throws her arms up as if to make a show of her father's arrival. ] Are we going to eat dinner here? Is Miss Krile going to join us?

Well, I'm not certain... you would need to ask her. [ Alkaid shakes her head.

Then, she watches as her adopted daughter gives a firm nod and weasels out of her father's arms in order to rush down the hall. Leon sighs and walks around Aymeric to make certain his sister is not causing more trouble than she should. Once the sound of their feet echoes down the hallway, Alkaid turns her gaze properly to her lord husband. She raises her other arm out towards him to beckon he join her--cold armor and all. ]

Welcome home, my love. [ She nods towards the unfinished tree. ] I think they wished to finish the rest with you home, but didn't know how to say it.

Well, I am glad that you remained indoors. It is quite cold tonight, colder than it has been recently. [ Of course, the children would be dressed warmly, but he knows all too well that the climate of Ishgard is not particularly forgiving, and he would hate to see either the children or Alkaid catch a chill.

He offers Leon a warm smile before turning his attentions back to Mélodie. ] Good, I hope that she has been resting. [ She has not been herself, and he fears that all is not truly well with her, even though he did as she asked and did not summon a doctor to the house. ] I look forward to seeing your progress with the tree. And Miss Krile is present? Good. That's good. [ It also confirms for him that perhaps Alkaid does need care, but his opinion of Krile is that she is quite capable of handling things.

When they reach the sitting room, Aymeric is quick to survey Alkaid, looking for any signs of things that he should worry about. At least she is standing, even if she is holding onto the couch. Still, he remains worried, as he is not entirely convinced that all is well.

He remains silent long enough for Leon and Mélodie to depart the room, being careful to still wear a smile for their benefit. But once it is just the two of them, he quickly crosses over to her and places a hand at her hip as if to provide additional support. ]

It is good to be home. They did good work with the tree, unfinished as it is. Perhaps we can finish it together, if- [ His eyes focus fully upon her now. ] If you feel able to do so.

[ Well, she has been certainly resting in a manner of speaking. The nerves and fears hardly let her relax and truly rest. Instead, she has sat with Krile most of the day speaking of progress with the Students of Baldesion, what she knows of G'raha and K'thisru's current adventures, and Ishgard's affairs as well. While it has not been terribly long since they had been whisked away to face Meteion? Alkaid cannot help but feel she has much to catch up on with the state of affairs.

All those thoughts leave her mind as Aymeric joins her. Her fingers slip between his with natural motions, and she leans against his hand and himself. Not merely just for support, but out of how she greets him whenever the children have left them for a moment. She nudges her nose into the cold fabric of his armor before tilting her head back to rest her chin upon it. ]

I'll be able to. [ Even if she must force herself to be. This is an important time for their small new family: their first Starlight Celebration together. She refuses to let her illness--whatever it might be--distract from that fact. ] Krile doesn't seem terribly worried, but, she wished to wait until you were home to give her report...

[ Yet, it is clear in her eyes, that she is still worried and fears something that is not physical. Her hand clutches onto his for a brief moment as her eyes close. Ears tilt against her head as she allows herself to show him how worried she is of it all. With a shaky breath, Alkaid looks back up to him. ]

I imagine the festivities have kept you busy. It is the first Starlight Celebration for the residential district. [ She manages a smile for him. ] I hope they haven't drained you of the spirit to have at home.

[ There is a part of him that would forgo all of his responsibilities as Lord Speaker without hesitation if she told him that she would rather he remain at her side, especially now that she appears to be wrestling with some sort of illness. Even the Starlight Celebration would pale in comparison to caring for her and supporting her as best as he is able.

When her fingers slide in between his, he lightly bends his own, to further hold onto her. He would swoop her off her feet and hold her that way, but he refrains from doing so in case she would rather not be seen that way, or be carried that way. ]

If you are certain. I do not wish to tire you out or cause your condition to worsen. [ That is what he fears, given the apparent lack of information concerning her present state of being. ] The children may be disappointed, but they would understand. [ In time, anyway. But then he finds himself stiffening slightly at the news that Krile has a report to give them both.

He does his best to appear calm and collected, but she will certainly note the look of worry in his own eyes. His hand briefly tightens around hers as if to offer what reassurance he can. ]

Well, whatever news her report contains, I will be with you when she gives it. [ He knows he does not need to state as much, but he feels compelled to regardless. ]

The planning of it all has kept me busy, but the festive spirit has not left me. Far from it, in fact. The thought of experiencing it alongside you and the children gives me no small amount of excitement and anticipation.

[ Some of it is countered a bit by his fears for her, but he is doing his best to find a balance between the two things. ]

Would you like to remain here for a moment? [ Private moments are somewhat a rarity these days, but he will do whatever she asks of him. ]

[ She certainly would not mind being carried, but she imagines the children may worry more if that was the case. They have seen enough worry and horror in their short lives thus far, and she would not agitate it further if she is able to avoid it. Perhaps once it has come time to them to retire she will ask that he carry her to bed.

In the mean time, she leans further against him and nods at his wishes. She is certain that she will spend most of her time sitting, but, she still wishes to be apart of the celebrations. This is the first Starlight Celebration that they will be spending with the children, and she does not want it tainted by whatever is afflicting her. Her hand tightens in response to his with a gentle nudge of her nose to his armor along with it. ]

I am glad it is something you have looked forward to throughout the day. [ Her tail sways side to side despite her ill appearance. Then, she nods once more. ] Yes... I would. Do... do you prefer to have dinner here or in the dinning room?

[ Either location is fine with her. She simply wishes to be near him; close enough where she might have physical contact with him. Krile had already been invited to dinner, but, she is uncertain if the Lalafel will wish to stay. She is a woman of science and ever moving towards her goals after all. ]

I missed you.

[ Indeed, the last thing he intends is to cause anyone to worry, whether the children or Alkaid herself. She too has had enough to worry about, and it seems that she still is not free of that. If only he could free them all from worry and fear.

His expression momentarily turns pensive as he wonders how this Starlight will be, if she is not feeling well. Perhaps he could see about finding a chair that he could push her in, but that would also cause fretting. He would do whatever he has to in order to ensure that she can enjoy the holiday with all of them, but not at the cost of her health. Perhaps Krile will recommend that she not attend. That would be unfortunate but he would not argue.

But there is no point in borrowing trouble right now, so he focuses instead on continuing the conversation with her. ]

Perhaps we should have it here. It may be more comfortable for you if you do not have to move so far.

[ He offers her a warm smile and wraps an arm around her fondly. ] And I have missed you.

[ Her head tilts only by a fraction as the pensive expression crosses his face. Alkaid gives one gentle nudge to his chest with her nose in an attempt to bring him back to the present. She does not ask what is on his mind or what pulls his thoughts away from them at the moment. Aymeric has always been a very thoughtful man, and being a father and husband will hardly stop that. ]

I doubt you will have any that disagree. The children seem to enjoy it.

[ Her tail sways just slightly more. Then, she attempts to stand on her toes to plant a gentle kiss to his jaw. His arm wrapped around her causes her to melt comfortably against him. That, and she hopes it rather hides how her knees have begun to shake. Although she doubts he will not look past how they have finally given out from under her. ]

Mélodie will wish to tell you her day.

[ He realizes belatedly that he has allowed his thoughts to wander, and after a moment, he returns to the present and to the person he loves most. Well, she and the children are the ones he holds most dear, and he would oppose anyone who told him otherwise. ]

Where would you be most comfortable? If you would prefer to not move from here, that can be arranged.

[ Ensuring that she is comfortable and cared for remains his top priority. And with that thought in mind, he smiles and leans in just a little, reacting to her kiss. As she suspected, he has not failed to notice the shaking of her knees, and thus, without another thought, he scoops her up into his arms. He imagines he can forestall any worries by saying he simply wished to pick her up, and hopefully no one will question him further. ]

And I would love to hear of it, just as I would like to hear about yours. [ Although they most likely both know that goes without saying. ]

The bed, if I were to be honest. That is hardly an option... so I suppose here is better.

[ Alkaid leans into his hold, resting her head against what she can of his shoulder due to his armor. Her eyes drift shut and the way her tail sways ought to show how much she truly loves behind held by him. ]

Resting, mostly. The two insisted on it even once Krile arrived. I only recently moved here to the living room. I didn't want the children to worry over me when they should be enjoying the start of the holiday.

[ He is already worried about her, fearing that something truly is wrong, and while he has every confidence in the healers and chirurgeons, there are some things that cannot be healed or mended. And in this moment, he finds himself conflicted between deciding what is best for the children or what is best for her. Certainly if she returns to their bed, they will worry, but he imagines they would worry regardless.

Because an answer to his dilemma does not appear to be forthcoming, he merely pulls her even closer; quite the feat, considering they are already quite close indeed. ]

Perhaps you should rest more. I could have arrangements made for the children to be escorted to the festivities when they begin while we remain here. [ And that way, he could be present to assist her with anything that she needed. ]

[ Alkaid immediately opens her eyes at his suggestion. Her gaze snaps to his with a frown on her face. There is the briefest shake of her head then. ]

No. I'll be well enough to join them. [ She will make certain of it. A hand raises to rest on the side of his face. ] It is important to them, and I don't want them to think that I'm incapable of joining them but able to travel to the other side of creation for others.

[ She rubs her cheek into his shoulder, intending to further her point when her ear lifts. Within moments the pair of footsteps belonging to their adopted children return to the room. ]

They wish to know if we are having dinner here or in the living room, Father. [ Leon's voice catches her ear even as he comes into view, holding his sister back from the decorations. He glances at Alkaid in Aymeric's arms but decides not to comment on it. ] I believe Mistress Krile does not intend to join us...

[ Alkaid turns her head to look down at the two Elezen. ] She's not?

If you are certain. I would hate to see you become ill, more than you already are, and know that I could have done something to prevent it. [ His eyes slide closed for a moment in response to her touch, but they open again before too long. ] Should that happen, I am certain that if we explained that you are only momentarily unwell, and that they are still of utmost importance to us both, they might understand. But I will do whatever you desire and are comfortable with, my dearest.

[ He turns just slightly when he hears footsteps approaching. ]

I believe we will be dining in the living room. [ He would just as soon remain here for the sake of Alkaid's comfort, but she has already expressed her feelings on that matter. ] As for Mistress Krile, she is welcome to join us. She does not have to take her leave, unless of course she is called away by other business.

If my conditioned worsened, it would be my fault and not yours. [ Her thumb brushes along his cheek as she gives him a smile. A twitch is given by her ears folllwed by a faster sway of her tail at the sound of his name from her. ] I am certain they would understand, but it is hardly fair. Especially with the lives they have lived so far...

"I am afraid other business does call me away, Ser Aymeric. Given I am in the middle of restoring the Students."

[ Leon turns his head as Krile finally joins them. She raises her hand and gives a friendly wave, seemingly unconcerned at the state one of the Warriors of Light finds herself in. She certainly doesn't seem to mind seeing the way Aymeric carries her. ]

"However, I would be a poor friend if I did not at least give the answers to you in person. Especially with the whole family present." [ Krile smiles up at them all. ] "I can assure you, Alkaid. You are well and nothing in your aether shows a concern of being exposed to the void gate--[ Leon hushes his sister as she attempts to interrupt to ask what a void gate is, ]--"in Thavnair. Your symptoms are actually quiet common for a woman with a baby on the way."

[ Alkaid freezes, but st the same time, feels as if she has gone lax in Aymeric's arms. If she had been standing she certainly would have sunk to the couch. Her eyes widen and she truly cannot believe what she has heard. ]

...I'm sorry...?

[ Krile laughs gently in a way that reminds Alkaid of a woman with long white hair who saw herself as a mother to all. ] "You are pregnant, Alkaid."

Edited 2022-11-30 11:17 (UTC)

If your condition worsened, it would certainly be my fault, as it is my responsibility to care for you and ensure that you are healthy and well. Is that not a responsibility that we share? [ To care for the other when they need it, and perhaps even when they think they do not...

But then he turns his focus to Krile and offers her a polite nod and warm smile. ]

You are welcome here whenever you find yourself nearby, Mistress Krile. [ He would say more, but then Krile continues speaking, and of course, he falls silent so that he might listen properly. But as she goes on, he finds his eyes widening and his mouth falling open as what she says sinks in. ]

... A baby? [ His voice is hushed with surprise, as the thought that Alkaid might be expecting had not occurred to him. Until now, that is.

His gaze travels immediately to look at Alkaid, wondering if she had even the slightest suspicion. But based upon the look on her face and how she has all but frozen in his hold, he guesses she did not know before Krile delivered the news. ]

[ Her gaze softens as his logic is quite sound. Yes, that was apart of their vows. She instead offers him one more smile and brush along his cheek before her attention focuses entirely on the conversation before her.

Alkaid cannot help but stare at the woman that has become a close friend. She feels as if all the strength has left her and all she might be able to do is stare in utter shock. Mélodie's gasp rings in her ears, as does how Leon shifts from one foot to the other. Somehow she feels numb and yet her heart beating quickly all at the same time.

...A baby?

Her ears twitch at the sound of Aymeric's statement, yet her expression seems to mirror the hushed tone he has. A baby...

Krile quickly picks up on the tone of the room and shakes her head with yet another smile. ] "Did you truly believe the pair of you were incapable? While, yes, it is difficult to conceive across races, it is still possible and probable. Even more so given the age of both of you."

[ Alkaid swallows the sudden lump in her throat. Her hands curl into the fabric draped along Aymeric's armor. Krile must be joking, even if her expression shows she is not. How could she have a baby? Hadn't the adventures with her sister robbed her of such a thing? Her eyebrows knit as she expects Krile to admit to the rouse and unveil another source of her illnees. Because, surely, that is the real reason. Not that she is expecting.

The Lalafell tilts her head slightly at her friend. ] "Oh, Alkaid. I never said that it was impossible for you to bear children. Simply that it would be harder given the circumstances of injuries and the differences in race between you. After all the impossible things that you and K'thisru have achieved... did you truly believe yourself unable to?"

[ Alkaid shrinks slightly in Aymeric's hold as her ears press to her head. Tears well in her eyes. No vocal response is given, and Krile feels she needs none. Her reaction is simple enough. Krile smiles gently at the married couple before turning her gaze back to the two Elezen children. ]

"Well, Master Leon and Mistress Mélodie. I do hope you can take care of your parents and your younger sibling on the way." [ Her eyes turn back to the couple then. ] "I am no midwife, but, I would presume you are not far along into your pregnancy at all. I will put in a word with the local chirurgeons to visit you in the morning for more proper check up on you. Of course, I will be certain to be discrete so you might tell the others first as you see fit. My lips are sealed!"

[ Alkaid's gaze finally leave Krile to look at their adopted children. The apprehension is clear on Leon's face, while Mélodie's worry is as clear as day. Her gaze then reaches up to Aymeric, eyebrows drawn to gauge the reaction he has to the news. ]

[ Aymeric's own thoughts are whirling in a hundred different directions as he tries to wrap his mind around the idea that the family he shares with Alkaid is about to grow. To not only have their adopted children but a baby as well is more than he could have ever hoped for or dreamed of. ]

Truth be told, that is... Well, it certainly seemed improbable. Not that I have ever doubted Alkaid for any reason at all, mind you. [ He offers Alkaid a warm smile, hoping to convey the faith that he has in her, and the love he has for her as well. ] But from a purely practical standpoint, given who we both are, I believed the odds were not truly in our favor.

[ He allows himself to fall silent for a moment or two, but he reaches for Alkaid's hand that he might hold it and give it a comforting squeeze lest she interpret his silence as disappointment or disapproval of some kind. He feels neither of those things; he simply needs a moment to collect himself and his thoughts. ]

Thank you again for your time, Mistress Krile. I would offer to escort you, but ah... [ The journey would not be all that brief, and he feels more of a responsibility to Alkaid and the children than ever. ]

Leon, Mélodie, what do you think about all this? [ He can see the expressions on their faces, and he wonders if this is not a welcome development for either of them. ]

"If I have learned only one thing, See Aymeric, it is that these sisters find a way to achieve everything even if the odds are against their favor." [ Krile smiles at him before shaking her head. ] "I am only making one stop before seeing myself to Sharlayan. I think I will be able to make the trek even with the temperatures. I thank you for your concern regardless."

[ Alkaid turns her hand from his sash to only lightly squeeze his hand in return. As always, her true thoughts will need to be revealed when it is only the pair of them. Instead, her attention shifts to focus back on the adopted Elezen that she sees as her own children. She gives a gentle notion for Aymeric go place her back on the floor. Then, she turns to face them with her hands folded in front of her.

Before she can speak a word, Leon opens his mouth to speak. He is, however, interrupted by his sister. Mélodie lets out a small cry before immediately rushing over to the pair. Her arms drape around Alkaid's waist before clutching onto the fabric of her adopted mother's dress. ]

Don't send us back! Please, we'll be good! I'll do everything you need, Momma! [ Mélodie stiffles another cry before trying to make herself taller and more therefore more like an adult. ] I'll do whatever Papa asks--Leon will too! Don't send us back to the orphanage!

[ Alkaid feels her heart break on the spot. While the orphange Khloe runs certainly is not in dire straights now? She imagines it is more the fear of being homeless and without a family once more that has driven her daughter to tears. Alkaid slips down to her knees and places both of her hands on Mélodie's arms. ]

Mélodie, hush now. You and your brother are not going anywhere. You belong here, with us, even if we aren't your original parents. [ She gently brushes the tears away from her daughter's face. ] You are still our daughter and Leon is still our son. A baby doesn't mean you're no longer ours. It only means you will be a big sister, just as Leon is your big brother.

[ The younger Elezen stiffles her cry once more and tries to dry her face to no avail. Alkaid smiles gently before pulling her into her arms to hold her. Then, her hand lifts to motion Leon to join them. For once, he does not argue or roll his eyes. He instead joins them and looks up towards Aymeric with his
own apphrension and worry. ]

You really want us to stay? [ Leon frowns slightly. ] Even though you'll have a first born?

Leon... [ Alkaid's ears drop slightly.

She supposes succession means far more in Ishgardian society than it would in Miqo'te traditions. Leon would stand to be the next one to hold the title of Viscount, unless their first born is a boy. Alkaid makes the note to speak to Aymeric on how he would see it proceed. Although, she still believes the pair of siblings worry far more of being without family than titles and wealth. ]

Edited 2022-12-14 04:07 (UTC)

[ The words that Aymeric wanted to say to Krile, and then to Alkaid and the children formed on his tongue but disappeared in almost the same moment that he realized just what it was that Mélodie was saying. His own situation is not the same as that of Mélodie's and Leon's, and yet he still feels as though he can relate to them in some way.

To feel unwanted is a feeling he has had to confront and come to terms with, even though he knows without question that the family that took him in loved him also without question. And that completely overrules any lack of consideration from the once archbishop.

Rather than speak when his emotions are threatening to spill over, Aymeric moves closer to Mélodie and slips his arms around her and Alkaid both. No children of his will ever be turned away, or returned to the orphanage they came from, for any reason. All three of them will be considered their children, and any issues concerning parentage and inheritance may as well not exist in Aymeric's mind. The rest of the world may not see it that way, but it is not the rest of the world that concerns him. ]

Why would we not want you to stay? This is your home, and you are our children, and therefore this is where both of you belong.

[ Having said that, he extends one arm as if welcoming Leon to join his sister in what has become something of a family embrace. Of course, it will not surprise him if Leon declines, but the offer remains open should he wish to accept it. ]

[ Alkaid tilts her head up only slightly in order to catch a brief glance at Aymeric's face. She can sense the turmoil that threatens to boil over, but as always, his stoic personality of putting others first comes clear. A note is made in her head to speak to him of it when it is merely the two of them for the night. She quietly moves into his arms and makes certain to pull their daughter with her, holding her close as she can.

As for Leon, he hesitates before finally joining the family properly. He awkwardly positions himself within the family embrace. He tilts his head down to hide some form of reaction to the scene. Not out of shame or believing he must be emotionless. Instead, perhaps, it is he does not wish to show how deeply the death of their parents has affected him. He raises a hand and brushes along his face quickly before attempting to hide his own emotions.

Krile smiles gently before taking the steps backwards to leave the family to the moment. She can always attend to her business and then head back to Sharlayan on her own. This moment seems to be the one they need, and she would not interrupt it a moment more. A bow is given to the staff on her leaving and she makes her way from Borel Manor.

Alkaid gently tilts her head against Aymeric's. Mélodie's cries stiffle and Leon has returned to his stiff posture, despite the expression on his face. Her poor family. The Dragonsong War ended some time ago, and yet, she truly wonders if the scars of that war will ever heal. Her fingers brush into her daughter's hair and her other hand squeezes Leon's arm. What can she do to heal all their wounds and help them be the best that they might be? ]

I know it must be difficult... especially with all that has happened. But, as your father said, you are our children. Nothing will ever change that--unless you would wish to leave. [ She smiles down at the girl in her arms and then at Leon. ] But, I wish for the two of you to be apart of our lives and be an example to any children that may follow you: ours or adopted. You both have come so very far since the end of the War, and even further since your father first met you. I think you both would be lovely older siblings--if that is what you would like.

[ A storm of sorts is brewing, but now is hardly the time for him to let his inner thoughts and feelings take over. The focus ought to be on their children and ensuring that their concerns are put to rest.

All he truly wants is to hold both of their children and reassure them that although they will be adding one more to their number, nothing about their living arrangements will change. This is their home, and they are a family, and he means to ensure that he cares for all of them as best as he can.

He nods his agreement with Alkaid's words, and he adds: ] Is there anything that either of us might to do reassure you? [ He knows that there is a difference between saying the right words and actually demonstrating the meaning and intent behind them. Leon and Mélodie may be young, but that does not mean that they are any less perceptive. ]

[ Alkaid waits for the reaction of the two siblings. Leon simply shifts on the spot and shakes his head. Mélodie on the other hand buries her face further into Alkaid's chest. She frowns slightly at her daughter and continues to brush her hair down. It seems all the children wish to have in reassurance is to be close to their parents. A simple thing, but one that Alkaid is more than happy to attend to.

Dinner is brought to them by the staff, and Alkaid has the children sit with them on the same couch. That way they are all together and able to be close to one another. The conversation is light through the meal. However, once the attention returns to decorating the tree? The mood from earlier returns for the duration of their evening together. Alkaid then accompanies the children to their room thereafter, tucking them in alongside her husband.

Once they are settled (and several kisses to the forehead for their young daughter), Alkaid closes the door behind them. She then tilts her head back to look up at him with a tired smile. ]

[ Perhaps it is unsurprising to some, but Aymeric has just begun realizing how having a family causes one's priorities to shift. His responsibilities as Lord Speaker remain, but now he has a responsibility and an obligation that comes from love to think about. He may still need to work long hours and arrive home far later than he would like, but he has already begun to think of ways that he might avoid that. Perhaps some of the reports he needs to write can accompany him home so that he can finish them there. It certainly is something to consider.

For now, however, his focus remains with his wife and their children as they progress through dinner and seeing them settled into their beds. Once that has been accomplished and Mélodie has been reassured by both of them, he looks down to see Alkaid looking back at him with her usual smile, although he notes that it is a tired one as well. ]

Well, now, what shall we do? [ He knows what he wants to do for her, but he supposes he ought to ask first. ]

[ The idea of having her husband home more is something that truly makes Alkaid smile. While she is not one to bemoan his duties? There have been times where the late nights before their children made her feel lonely. Of course, Alkaid would never complain or voice such things. She has made him wait far longer than anyone should have ever had to wait for their partner. Knowing that, how could she ever voice the long hours he is away?

Her ear turns towards the door to make certain the children are not moving around (although they most certainly must be). Then, she leans forward and places her chin comfortably on the drapery of his armor in her familiar fashion. Her tail sways gently side to side. ]

I think it best if we retire to our room. [ Sometimes she still marvels at calling it "theirs", despite the fact they have shared a room for some time. ] Perhaps a warm bath for the pair of us and then enjoying each others company until the morning...?

[ As far as Aymeric is concerned, the separation between them was due to both of their responsibilities, not solely hers. That his work requires such long hours is something he has often railed against, if only in his mind, as he knows that what he does is important. Yet it is not the only thing that is important. Even if she expressed her unhappiness with how long he is away, he would not begrudge nor resent her for feeling that way.

He has already resolved to rectify the situation as best as he can within the boundaries of practicality. But that is something to address at a later time. ]

I believe that would be best, yes. [ His lips turn up into a smile as he glances at her. ]

I think all of that sounds quite perfect. [ Even if they skipped the first step and merely enjoyed each other's company, he would be content. But the warm bath would surely benefit both of them, and help them become more relaxed as well. ]

Shall I assist you in preparing for the bath?

[ Ishgard will always need Aymeric so long as he remains her steward. It is a position she will not ask him to step down from. She will support him if he continues to be the Lord Speaker or if he chooses to step down. He stood by and waited while she ran to the edges of the world, other worlds, and even the edge of creation. How could she not at least stand at home and wait for him to return after he has shown such faith in her?

Alkaid smiles widely at the sight of his own smile. Her hands raise to gently rest on the fabric of his armor, signifying he may carry her if he so wishes. Otherwise she most certainly does not mind walking to their room. It is not as if the path is unknown to her at all. ]

If you would like to. [ And, once they are far away enough from the children's room, she gives him a playful smile. ] Does my lord need aid in removing his armor for the evening?

BOOK 5: OUR SONG

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