[ In a way, there is nothing more she can do but to simply wait? She waits for the next who must be tended to, the next to one who must be healed. Surely she could travel and see the world, but with what coin? All she might do is in service to the Conjurer Guild, and thus she has little to her name. There is a part of her that yearns to see more, to do more, yet she is on the path she has chosen. Perhaps that path has lead her to him--even for a short while. ]
Then, perhaps you should leave that to us: the ones left here at home. We can take care of home and hearth so that you will have a place to return to.
[ Her ears lift at his smile, for she truly believes he does not smile enough. If the circumstances had been different? She could of melted against him...
Instead, she laughs gently. ] I have yet to eat, Ser. And neither was dinner being prepared.
[ Such a life is difficult for him to imagine. The trajectory of his own life seems clear enough to him, even though it was not always that way. Perhaps there is a part of him that wishes for a simpler life, a life in which he was not a lord but perhaps a mere soldier... or a farmer, or a horseman. Something different from what he is in reality. But such thoughts are foolishness, and he ought not give any time to them. ]
I suppose that I could do that, but home and hearth can be repaired and replaced. Friends and loved ones cannot. [ And she might note that his use of words implies that he considers her a friend already. For him, the distinction between a friend and a loved one exists, but it does not take much for him to begin to care for another, in a protective sense. He does not have many friends, but the ones that he does have, he intends to keep as long as possible. ]
Then perhaps that should be our next course of action.
[ She smiles gently at the word used to describe her: friend. It feels lacking in her heart, for she feels more and wishes to shower him in all the affection she can hold in her heart. Their small exchange has proven one thing to herself: the emotion she truly feels when he is near. ]
Yes, perhaps it should be.
[ Another moment passes before she finally removes her arms from around him. She looks down, instantly feeling the regret of the very notion itself. Her hands flex before stepping to his side once more. They encircle his arm and hand again, raising her two toned eyes to his. ]
[ In truth, he would use another word to describe her, but to do so now would feel like he is only reaching, grasping for something that is not his to take. He wishes to have more time with her, to find out her likes and dislikes, her hopes and dreams... but it seems that there is no time. And even worse, he fears that if he lets her in, when they inevitably must part, it will be even harder for them both.
When she removes her arms from around him, he realizes that he already misses her touch, and yet carrying on in such a way might be seen as inappropriate by others, should they be spotted. And even if they are not, perhaps this conduct is unbecoming on his part. So for a moment, he falls silent even as he offers her a smile and does as requested. ]
As you wish. [ He walks along in silence for another second or two before he poses a question to her. ] Do you or any of the others in your delegation want for anything? Might there be something that those of us who call Ishgard home can assist you with?
[ They are there to assist them, of course, but in his mind, they have already helped the people so much that he wishes to do something in return for them, if he is able. ]
[ Perhaps it would be harder, but, Alkaid has learned that partings are simply a part of the way her life is. Not that there are many sad things, but, she has seen many adventurers and soldiers come and go. Waiting for someone to return... while it most certainly would be difficult? The idea that someone may wish her to wait for them? No, perhaps it is better to say that, the notion of being wanted warms her heart in a certain way that nothing else yet has.
Her fingers slide between his again with her cheek gently pressing into his arm. There is a warmth in her heart that she has not experienced before. Brushing her fingers along his brings a feeling of contentment and just overall... correctness? She lacks the proper word for it, but, it feels as if it should. Perhaps he might find it improper if she shared it. ]
Some bemoan our lodgings, but we are blessed as it is to have a place within the city. Some miss home. I... find myself content here. [ She is certain it is because he is present. ] If you know of any in Ishgard that are in need of aid, they would be glad to be directed to them.
[ He wishes to ask her if she might consider waiting for him, if she does not have to leave Ishgard before he can return, and barring that, if he might send letters to her while he is away. The truth of the matter is, he wishes to continue their friendship, or relationship, such as it is, in hopes that it might grow into something more.
And as for the night ahead of them, he finds he does not wish to be alone. But to ask if she would consent to remaining with him until the hour grows late and she needs to retire feels entirely too forward and inappropriate, and so he does not speak of it. ]
If I could offer up my own home for you and yours to use, I would without a doubt. [ But he imagines such an action would also be frowned upon. ] I know of many who are troubled by the prolonged nature of this war, and some of them grow disheartened of ever seeing its resolution. [ He has those moments himself, but his concern is ever focused on others, not on himself. ] Rest assured that your very presence here is a comfort.
The offer means everything, even if it is something we could not take. [ She smiles gently to herself. Her heart flutters at the idea of sharing a home with him. Of course, they are simply friends, even if she longs for more. It is an unseemly thought by Ishgard standards. ] Then, we will continue as we have. I only hope that we do not catch the ire of the Heavens' Ward...
[ Alkaid casts a glance to the side and further leans against his arm. There is no secret that the Heavens' Ward are not keen on the outsiders that have come to Isghard. While most see their presence as aid from a citystate that wishes to build alliances? There are many, including the elite guard of the Archbishop, that see them as outsiders to meddle in affairs. They have gone this far with their astrologians, knights, and dragoons. They've no need for anything else. ]
I don't wish for us to be cast out after all we've helped you with now.
[ And, on a selfish note, she does not wish to be sent away from him. ]
Can you not? I am, of course, aware that there are those who can and will talk, but I cannot help but feel as though I ought to give you something in return for your service. Nay, I want to give you something in return for the aid you have given all of us.
[ They may be only friends, but he does feel indebted to her already. And what is more, he wishes that they could be more than merely friends. ] Should the eye of the Heavens' Ward fall upon us, rest assured that I will not allow any discomfort nor shame to fall on you.
[ His lips turn up as if he wants to smile, but his expression remains wholly serious. ]
I will not allow anyone to cast you out, not when you have done so much good already. And, I hope that you will continue to do so. [ Not for himself, of course, but for his fellow Ishgardians who may need it more. Even so, he too does not wish to see her sent away from him either. ]
...I would imagine it would cause more conflict for all of you than needed. Given we are outsiders. [ Her voice drops to a quieter tone, gaze drifting to the side. There is already contention within the city due to the outsiders. She would not wish to make more of it. Even then, her hand in his tightens it's hold. How she would love to stay close to him. ] But, I shall ask the others and see what they think of your proposal.
[ Alkaid nods gently to his statements. While her feelings for him remains at the forefront of her mind? She does wish to continue to aid his people. The Elder Seedseer hopes to bridge an alliance between the two city states, but, Alkaid does not care for the politics. She only wishes to help those in need. ]
[ He smiles once again, offering her a slightly wider one this time, even as he gently shakes his head. ] If conflict arises, we will handle it. Or I shall, as I feel inclined to extend all the invitations and hospitality to you and those who accompany you, so as to make all of you feel at home while you are here.
[ He is unsure why he feels so strongly about this, but they are here to help, and they have been nothing but kind to all of them. There is a part of him that feels compelled to offer kindness in return. ]
I realize I do not know very much about you. [ At least, not yet. ] Would you satisfy a simple soldier's curiosity and tell me something about yourself?
[ He is certain she will raise an eyebrow at how he refers to himself, but after all, he is but a mere soldier among many. He certainly does not presume to think their relationship, such as it is, will be a lasting one, what with the nature of war. But at the same time, should he survive and return home, he wishes to attempt to court her, if she is open to such a thing. ]
[ Alkaid raises her gaze to his face once more. Truly, she did not expect any in Isgard to welcome them so. While they have done good and aided several citizens and soldiers alike? She feels as if there is more to his gratitude... or perhaps she is merely wishing there would be. She smiles at him, unable to help the affection--and dare she say love--from leaking into her gaze. ]
You may need allies should it come to the Heavens' Ward, Ser Aymeric.
[ She does note how he refers to himself. A mere knight? Is he not also a lord, having inherited the title and name from his parents? He is nobility, and yet he is so humble. The urge to kiss him strikes once more, but she withholds. It surely would be unwanted. ]
I have a sister who studies in Limsa Lominsa as an archanist, but she surely has graduated from the arts now. We both left our tribes, as many young Miqo'tes do, but I am not certain either of us wishes to return home. [ What else may be appealing to him? ] She is my twin sister.
[ Though, perhaps that is not of herself as he might wish? Or perhaps not as personal as he'd like? ] I love sweets--as does my sister. Lilies are my favorite flower.
[ For his part, he is wishing for something that he feels he has no right to. It is not something he should wish for nor pursue, and yet there is a part of him that is reaching out for it, even if he is uncertain how to obtain it or ask for what he wishes.
The look in her eyes nearly undoes his resolve and determination to conduct himself as a soldier would, and as an Ishgardian would, because he very much wishes to tell her how he truly feels. And barring telling her so with words, showing her his true feelings. But alas, he finds that he cannot, as she might well find it improper and thus turn away. ]
You are right, of course, and I ought to have more sense than to speak as I have, and yet...
[ He shakes his head, clearly conflicted and pulled between his wants and more practical actions. ]
Oh, you have a sister? And she is your twin, no less. I imagine that you must miss her, and she must do the same. I suppose neither of you know when you will see the other again. [ He has no siblings, and so he cannot speak with any experience concerning the bonds between siblings, but he can imagine well enough that they look forward to seeing each other again.
His lips turn up into a smile as he makes note of the words she has said. It is a fool's hope, of course, to think that their paths might bring them back to Ishgard one day, but he know that should that happen, he would take steps to ensure that sweets of varying kinds and lilies are at hand to offer both of them. Never mind that he does not know Alkaid's sister, but if she is half as kind, he is certain he will like her just as much. ]
Is there a sort of sweet that you favor over others?
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synthneon2022-07-08 02:41 am
no subject
Then, perhaps you should leave that to us: the ones left here at home. We can take care of home and hearth so that you will have a place to return to.
[ Her ears lift at his smile, for she truly believes he does not smile enough. If the circumstances had been different? She could of melted against him...
Instead, she laughs gently. ] I have yet to eat, Ser. And neither was dinner being prepared.
no subject
I suppose that I could do that, but home and hearth can be repaired and replaced. Friends and loved ones cannot. [ And she might note that his use of words implies that he considers her a friend already. For him, the distinction between a friend and a loved one exists, but it does not take much for him to begin to care for another, in a protective sense. He does not have many friends, but the ones that he does have, he intends to keep as long as possible. ]
Then perhaps that should be our next course of action.
hold my hand played at work, alkaid said this too
Yes, perhaps it should be.
[ Another moment passes before she finally removes her arms from around him. She looks down, instantly feeling the regret of the very notion itself. Her hands flex before stepping to his side once more. They encircle his arm and hand again, raising her two toned eyes to his. ]
Lead the way.
no subject
When she removes her arms from around him, he realizes that he already misses her touch, and yet carrying on in such a way might be seen as inappropriate by others, should they be spotted. And even if they are not, perhaps this conduct is unbecoming on his part. So for a moment, he falls silent even as he offers her a smile and does as requested. ]
As you wish. [ He walks along in silence for another second or two before he poses a question to her. ] Do you or any of the others in your delegation want for anything? Might there be something that those of us who call Ishgard home can assist you with?
[ They are there to assist them, of course, but in his mind, they have already helped the people so much that he wishes to do something in return for them, if he is able. ]
no subject
Her fingers slide between his again with her cheek gently pressing into his arm. There is a warmth in her heart that she has not experienced before. Brushing her fingers along his brings a feeling of contentment and just overall... correctness? She lacks the proper word for it, but, it feels as if it should. Perhaps he might find it improper if she shared it. ]
Some bemoan our lodgings, but we are blessed as it is to have a place within the city. Some miss home. I... find myself content here. [ She is certain it is because he is present. ] If you know of any in Ishgard that are in need of aid, they would be glad to be directed to them.
no subject
And as for the night ahead of them, he finds he does not wish to be alone. But to ask if she would consent to remaining with him until the hour grows late and she needs to retire feels entirely too forward and inappropriate, and so he does not speak of it. ]
If I could offer up my own home for you and yours to use, I would without a doubt. [ But he imagines such an action would also be frowned upon. ] I know of many who are troubled by the prolonged nature of this war, and some of them grow disheartened of ever seeing its resolution. [ He has those moments himself, but his concern is ever focused on others, not on himself. ] Rest assured that your very presence here is a comfort.
no subject
[ Alkaid casts a glance to the side and further leans against his arm. There is no secret that the Heavens' Ward are not keen on the outsiders that have come to Isghard. While most see their presence as aid from a citystate that wishes to build alliances? There are many, including the elite guard of the Archbishop, that see them as outsiders to meddle in affairs. They have gone this far with their astrologians, knights, and dragoons. They've no need for anything else. ]
I don't wish for us to be cast out after all we've helped you with now.
[ And, on a selfish note, she does not wish to be sent away from him. ]
no subject
[ They may be only friends, but he does feel indebted to her already. And what is more, he wishes that they could be more than merely friends. ] Should the eye of the Heavens' Ward fall upon us, rest assured that I will not allow any discomfort nor shame to fall on you.
[ His lips turn up as if he wants to smile, but his expression remains wholly serious. ]
I will not allow anyone to cast you out, not when you have done so much good already. And, I hope that you will continue to do so. [ Not for himself, of course, but for his fellow Ishgardians who may need it more. Even so, he too does not wish to see her sent away from him either. ]
no subject
[ Alkaid nods gently to his statements. While her feelings for him remains at the forefront of her mind? She does wish to continue to aid his people. The Elder Seedseer hopes to bridge an alliance between the two city states, but, Alkaid does not care for the politics. She only wishes to help those in need. ]
no subject
[ He is unsure why he feels so strongly about this, but they are here to help, and they have been nothing but kind to all of them. There is a part of him that feels compelled to offer kindness in return. ]
I realize I do not know very much about you. [ At least, not yet. ] Would you satisfy a simple soldier's curiosity and tell me something about yourself?
[ He is certain she will raise an eyebrow at how he refers to himself, but after all, he is but a mere soldier among many. He certainly does not presume to think their relationship, such as it is, will be a lasting one, what with the nature of war. But at the same time, should he survive and return home, he wishes to attempt to court her, if she is open to such a thing. ]
no subject
You may need allies should it come to the Heavens' Ward, Ser Aymeric.
[ She does note how he refers to himself. A mere knight? Is he not also a lord, having inherited the title and name from his parents? He is nobility, and yet he is so humble. The urge to kiss him strikes once more, but she withholds. It surely would be unwanted. ]
I have a sister who studies in Limsa Lominsa as an archanist, but she surely has graduated from the arts now. We both left our tribes, as many young Miqo'tes do, but I am not certain either of us wishes to return home. [ What else may be appealing to him? ] She is my twin sister.
[ Though, perhaps that is not of herself as he might wish? Or perhaps not as personal as he'd like? ] I love sweets--as does my sister. Lilies are my favorite flower.
no subject
The look in her eyes nearly undoes his resolve and determination to conduct himself as a soldier would, and as an Ishgardian would, because he very much wishes to tell her how he truly feels. And barring telling her so with words, showing her his true feelings. But alas, he finds that he cannot, as she might well find it improper and thus turn away. ]
You are right, of course, and I ought to have more sense than to speak as I have, and yet...
[ He shakes his head, clearly conflicted and pulled between his wants and more practical actions. ]
Oh, you have a sister? And she is your twin, no less. I imagine that you must miss her, and she must do the same. I suppose neither of you know when you will see the other again. [ He has no siblings, and so he cannot speak with any experience concerning the bonds between siblings, but he can imagine well enough that they look forward to seeing each other again.
His lips turn up into a smile as he makes note of the words she has said. It is a fool's hope, of course, to think that their paths might bring them back to Ishgard one day, but he know that should that happen, he would take steps to ensure that sweets of varying kinds and lilies are at hand to offer both of them. Never mind that he does not know Alkaid's sister, but if she is half as kind, he is certain he will like her just as much. ]
Is there a sort of sweet that you favor over others?