Tiern a vrezel

Aymeric de Borel. Independent and Private Roleplay Blog for FFXIV

[doustadig]

          ♢ " Sometimes I wonder who calls you when I find you around here again. "      In the middle of a silent forest, having ventured in so far, one would assume the other lost inside the large maze of overgrowing trees and small glades offering solace and a space to rest. But no, he was not. Every time Aymeric would make to find his partner, would wander after his energy [ known to him like nothing else ], it seemed more likely that Estinien was entranced by something, by someone, by the forest itself calling its protector? 

     ♢ " You seem to be in thought, my dear. "      He would always call out to him before truly being there. Always reach him, for their bond was strong, their thoughts intertwined, even stronger, shining bright.      " I wonder what they tell you. "      Interested, but not pressuring to get to know whatever his dearest would not want to disclose in these quiet moments when the sounds of wind and leaves rustling could fill the ears of any bystander with beautiful white noise. 

     ♢ He is near now, watching carefully for any sign he would receive to come that slightest bit closer still, that tiny bit that seperates them whole. 

    ♢ Mind is set on figuring out even the smallest details of this man that had charmed him even before he was brought to his lands by fate unforeseen. Oh, who would have thought? And who would have guessed that it was he who would become the guardian of the forest?      " Alas, I brought food and drink for us. You have been gone all evening~ "          @lazhadeg​ ♡~

[doustadig]

♢ || Umiko

CAGED BIRDS ARE WONT TO WONDER.   ofttimes she thinks that is the true purpose of a cage itself,  rather than barring all passage they instead are there to ignite further longing.  either way it is a cruel fate,  far crueller than many might ever imagine with all their gilded dreams and stone walls.  better knowing what lies beyond stagnation than to never know it at all,  alas,  even then a simple taste is never enough   by ice.  by sea.  by molten rock.  curiosity coils in the undertows of her belly even if the waters above deny her true sunlight.  the world itself was built atop ancient bones,  archaic wanting that cages those who dwell below.  not all is as it seems,  and the heart burns brighter with every passing hour.  

❛  both.  ❜  answers that carry one syllable are her favourite.  the question does not catch her off guard,  if anything she should grow accustomed to it when being nothing more than a stranger,  in an even stranger land.  surely she has several questions teetering on the very edge of her tongue. 

taking each book in hand she —  out of habit  —  traces every embossed title then follows the spine right down to the brim. ❛  thank you, ❜   gratitude blooms in the space between her words,  and while in the throes of curiosity she pries open the first tome.  ❛  in the beginning i danced for tradition,  for faith.  i still do.  it was only until later i danced to defend myself. ❜ 

          ♢ And how much would they not both want to ask, want to question, on the top of their tongues, only politeness in their quaint togetherness yet keeping it all contained - but for how long, he wonders? Little signs of acceptance. A tome offered and a query answered, Aymeric was sure as much content to enjoy this. To find a modicum of peace in this evening drawling on slowly and ever slower. Perhaps, when the time would come, they could see whatever was hidden in their minds.

     ♢ Accepting gratitude without much of a word, a smile all that would grace his features, while observing the interest in craftsmanship with mild amusement.     " I see. "     Just an acknowledgement of the moment, when he moves to sit down again, to enjoy the tea formerly brewed while listening to her intently. Of course, why would he assume anything else? There was nothing but war settled into the bones of someone sought out by all over Eorzea [ that was, very likely, the reason he would want to provide comfort to a dear friend of his--- ].

    ♢ " Tradition is what would interest me if you would have the patience to explain. "     To brush off the notion of defence, of fighting for one's survival when they were so safe in these walls.     " As Ishgard's tradition is vast and grand, I find myself sometimes caught in only this for all I know. I would like to learn more about yours. "     To learn more about someone that was so dear to him - in his heart and mind.

[doustadig]

♢ || Lady Y’shtola

   ‹  SCION’S REPRESENTATIVE / IT LEFT A BITTER TASTE AT THE TIP OF HER TONGUE; indeed, she had been labeled the most esteemed both in rank & demeanor; to accompany the WARRIOR OF LIGHT as a stand-in for the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. Never had envisioned herself to be back at the forefront but who else was available when the female members were but her, Alisaie & dearest Lyse. – perhaps a handful of hours in & one already yearned for the peace & quiet of own lair / pieces played & the buzz of a thousand conversations held in her proximity doing much to conjure a headache. – once upon a time such trivialities had been frequented alongside the rest of Louisoix’ entourage. Young had she been & usually ever attentive of YDA HEXT; the two of them had wandered elsewhere, finding far more interesting ways to pass the time. – aye, to be back in ballrooms midst the rich & sophisticated, it rested heavily on her chest for reasons too excruciating to be named. – lost in thoughts, all alone.

      ❛ Ah, Lord Aymeric. ❜  – brows furrow, casting a shadow across scorched eyes; she glares past his head / or mayhaps against his chest [why, she would not know], tracing his aether long before first words could leave his lips. – among the dull & dreary, his royal hues certainly made themselves known; shades of silver & deep blue a stark contrast against otherwise jarring white. Slender fingers tap against held crystal glass, counting the seconds ‘till his intentions procured a scoff; involuntarily so. Some biting remark lingered at the back of her throat. – to ask a BLIND WOMAN to dance; moreso in a room filled with loud noise & obnoxious, TWIRLING noble folk, making it impossible to navigate the parquet without aid. – she bites her tongue, offering a curt nod. It had been discussed beforehand; a certain ASTROLOGIAN had briefed her ever so nonchalantly & yet she could not fight the moroseness lingering in own tightening chest. 

     Remember, remember: you are SCION’S REPRESENTATIVE; why, Lyse had picked such a beauteous dress in her name for the occasion, had she not? && one had her PRIDE / nay, Seventh Dawn’s pride to defend. There, she takes a step, offers left hand. – not without some snide remark [& a sigh], however.  ❛ I do hope you are aware of my slight limitation regarding the higher arts. Why, most of them require an intact sense of sight or so I have been told. – with that being said, step on my toes and I shall react accordingly. I am rather fond of my dignity. ❜  

          ♢ Even not knowing her well, he had not expected anything else but said display of an answer to be found when only proposing a dance of sorts to whisk them both away [ alas, she could not know that yet ]. Indeed was it enough to make him smile, known to her or not, while all the while only approaching her had brought not only a few eyes to follow his step and to whisper about the intentions behind such an invitation. A lie it would be if not many would envy one or the other - or mayhap both. A thought to have later on, when all attention was on that momentary companion chosen, was on the - mayhap - obvious interlude of engagement brought upon one another, representatives engaging with one another in expected ways [ alas, it was not all as expected as one might want for him to act ].

     ♢ " I am aware, do not worry. "

    ♢ Affirmation towards the note that, indeed, she does lack sight and mayhap encounter it as a handicap - while the Commander does not and shall never do so.     " Alas, I would like to debate the idea that sight is truly necessary for art carried forth by the heart and the soul. "     Or so himself had always found it to be. The words brought forth with a simple form of a singing timbre, a jest, without a doubt, to be found when only he continues after taking her hand.     " After all, many I have danced with would lack both of such things - if I were, to be honest. "     For the lack of one sense, might not her others have heightened? His voice full of amusement, yet hushed and soft, shall he announce his thoughts out loud would it lead to gasps and erratic behaviour, words would soon fill the room exclaiming otherwise.

    ♢ " There is also a certain lack of skill when it comes to those that endeavour to show off what they can not even fathom to hold. "     How would they not boldly exclaim otherwise shall they only be allowed to listen in to a conversation between leader and representative, more esteemed than most of that would wander around them. Alas, they both are aware that his little quips of amusement are only for each other to behold in these moments [ out of some reason, he thinks that Lady Y'shtola may well be understanding towards it ].     " And I do not want to remain inside much longer than need be. "     No, the balcony was far more inviting, easier to breathe, easier to move, away from prying eyes and overly loud exclamations - he tires of them just as much as many others [ and as dear friends of his as well ].

    ♢ No denial, the Lord Commander enjoys festivities whenever he could flee the drawling jog of paperwork mounting on his desk - but enough was enough.

    ♢ "May we move then? The music has begun to pick up anew."          @metamorphoria​

[doustadig]

♢ || Umiko

WHEN A ONCE ENTOMBED CITY STANDS BEFORE YOU,  its gates open and its history so very blurred,  you cannot help but ponder over all that might dwell inside.  behind those nooks and crannies,  above those cracked pews and daunting spires.  not even the large robust walls of ul’dah or the whitestone of limsa lominsa could quite compare to this hoary steel keep.  these holy places are different.  glorified.  built.   defined by gates and statues whose eyeless gaze penetrates those who still carry flesh below.   she knows holy places beside salt,  rock,  sand and seafoam.  ancient in the way the land was ancient,  not by the width of stone.

❛  an admirable trait.  ❜  she says bringing the cup to her lips,  still tugging at the slip of satin wrapped around her shoulders.  knowledge is a prize more often than not.  one that ought to be coveted as any ornament,  for knowledge is power and power is always romanticised in ways she cannot quite understand  (  or dare to  ).  settling down once again,  shoulders ever so tight,  as though there was a great knot tied between each end.  a burning sense of exhaustion yet she cannot sleep.  ❛  if you have anything regarding ishgardian entertainment i would not be against prying.  i … am somewhat of an entertainer myself,  i wish to see every dance.  ❜  

          ♢ He still had to visit the outside. Still had to travel further than the monumental walls of Ul'dah and its fate-filled history, still had to see so much more than what others would call a normalcy, while their eyes could travel and wander, were permitted to take in all that was Ishgard's Holy See and would hold it far grander than it maybe was. So he thinks, and these ideas alone might paint him for heresy in the minds of so many others still looking upon him with contempt and anger. Not that it mattered, for Aymeric, himself, was determined to lead his nation into the best state it could ever be.

     ♢ He had joined her for long, listening to the words of small praise without so much of a reply, humming into the taste of the tea presented while she brought forth her wish and interest towards the vast collection of literature he called his own. And it does take a moment for him to let eyes travel alongside spines of books as old as time.

     ♢ Rising to a stand to follow the train of thoughts now woven into reality.     " I do indeed have a few: regarding entertainment at royal events or the ones outside of the court. "     And had not Aymeric himself always found more entertainment and interest in the festivities of the common rather than the projected and created of the novelty? Indeed. An old friend of his might agree.     " These should be to your liking then. "     Two tomes. Beautifully bound and masterfully crafted, would be presented before his esteemed guest.     " I heard about the skill of dance for entertainment and in battle. Is it a mere interest or family tradition, if you may allow me that question? "

[doustadig]

♢ || Estinien

“ You place such faith in him, yet his presence leaves me feeling wary.“ Ah, but he was still sensitive to such things, was he not ? How many times had he heard it parroted to him at this point ? He’s too young, everything will be overwhelming at this point. It’s enough for his lips to curl into a light scowl – Sensitive or no, he still didn’t trust the man. “ You’ve asked Cecil if he’s okay with this, I presume. ” Part of him prays he gave a firm no so Estinien can get himself out of this situation–

And then Aymeric speaks again and he knows it’s over.

“ Mayhap they’ll have finally– ” His brother’s name stops him short of compeleting his sentence. A mercy, perhaps. Aymeric never seemed too pleased when he made less than polite comments about his home. Shaking his head, shoulders briefly rise as he shrugs and sighs. Damn this man. Damn him from knowing him all too well. “  Tsk. ‘Tis like dangling a carrot in front of a mule. You know full well what my answer will be, Aymeric. ” Defeated through words alone. Embarrassing. But that’s all his friend ever needed, loath though he was to admit it.  “ How long is this to be for ? The shorter the stay the better, in my opinion. “

          ♢ “ I understand that, do not worry. "      And, as well because of that, he would not subject his partner to more of the half god's presence as only need be. Sensitivity was one thing, but the feeling of wariness settling in one's bones and leading to irrational behaviour another. Best to be stopped before it would even proceed.     " I did ask him, of course. "     How nearly cruel would it not be otherwise? For the security of their young client was the most important to guarantee, and for all that is worth? Cecil seemed rather enamoured with the idea, was slightly set at more ease than one would want to imagine. How adorable---

     ♢ ---just the same way as Estinien's reaction had been, enough to have a smile spread over his face, as soft and airy as it might not appear.     " Of course I do, yet it does not change the truth of the matter. "     That the brothers as well may miss one another as much as Aymeric would miss his home.     " It would not be for long. "     No, he would not have his lover stay far longer than wanted, that would be harsh and unnecessary.     " A week, maybe two. Nathaniel gave note that Valentin would like to have a bit of free time with you. Undoubtedly to go on more 'adventures'. "     Cute though as that was, it was always the best if one of the older ones was around.

[doustadig]

♢ || Estinien

@doustadig​​ - |:>

❝  You wish to return home for a while ?  ❞  He’d caught nought more than a mere glance himself whilst departing the city all those months ago, had heard only about what it hid through Aymeric’s own words. A strange place, tucked away and hidden from the rest of the world in frosty lands [ perhaps that was for the best, considering the inhabitants ].  ❝ I’m unsure if that’s a good idea.  ❞  More so due to his own reluctance than anything. There was never much joy in travelling to areas surrounded by bad memories, by war. 

Arms fold, a finger tapping the side of his head as he frowns. ❝ – And what of the child ? Surely you do not plan on leaving his case unsolved.  ❞ Seldom did others tug at his heartstrings, but he couldn’t help but feel pity towards the distraught.ghost who’d shown up in his friend’s office one evening. ❝  Or is it in the hands of the silver haired man now ? ❞ His name eluded him; Estinien never was good at recalling such things. Still, the man’s overwhelming presence was undeniable – So whilst what he was named might not be burnt to memory, everything else about him was. 

Was it a good idea to leave such a vunerable individual with him ? 

Pondering over it, the vampire sighs before finally muttering under his breath, ❝ Then again. Better than that human detective sticking his nose where it shouldn’t be, I suppose. I don’t think he’d let him within a few kilometres of this place. ❞

          ♢ Returning home was a wish he only had for a short distraction of his thoughts, rummaging around his mind that he did indeed miss some of his dear friends and family, wishing yet to head back only with his partner by his side. Undeniably, those waiting for them back in Ishgard would be surely aware of the reasons as to why and why not they had departed months prior. Some cases, as strikingly diverse and unexplainable they had been, had only been a part of the overall reason to do so.

     ♢ He huffs a small whisper of laughter following a breath later.     " Cecil, and yes, he will be fine. "     The little distraught spirit wandering in search for answers that seemed impossible to ever attain; yet the intervention of something far more divine had made it feasible, had made it comprehensible. The demi-God would serve that the little one would be fine.     " And you mean Sephiroth, no? That is the reason why I am aware that everything will be alright. "     Individuals past any expectation or explanation, yet Estinien had grown used to it all in the end - mayhap not as quickly as his younger brother---

    ♢ ---oh.     " But yes, I would like to return, at least to see what has happened in the time of our absence. "     Even though it might only appear like heartbeats, for beings like them.     " Also, would you not want to see Valentin? He, undoubtedly, misses you as well. And he is likely eager to hear about all the adventures we had. "

[doustadig]

♢ || Umiko

WHAT WAS THAT LIKE ?  to know nothing else but snow ?  how gentle,  how soft,  how tender must those days be ?  easier to romanticise these moments where nature pushes forward,  regardless of who or when,  igniting passions and stoking out selfishness.  snow is different than water.  snow is pacification,  bitterness and loneliness all concentrated together.  snow is fierce yet gentle,  fragile yet colossal.  a heaven made up only of stasis and stagnation,  knowing only a rush of movement when the winds pick up. 

❛  tea would be quite alright,  thank you.  ❜  she says,  fingers nimble all the while.   her hair is pushed back,  though never tied nor knotted or braided,  she chose to leave it as is.  against hearthfire she would appear almost ghostlike,  though comforted by the warm hues and droplets of shadows.  the outline of her scales are more evident now as shallow contours are painted.  she settles herself amongst the blankets,  posture still upright.   ❛  you are well read i take it,  lord commander ?  i haven’t had the time to pry open any ishgardian tomes yet. ❜  

          ♢ Idle chatter all the while; just for the comfort of one’s mind to settle in togetherness where neither of them had expected to find any this evening, in these few bells still left to end the day. He could grant the wish for tea easily enough, would listen to her movements still, regardless of not seeing them with own eyes, now that he was turned and preparing, would attempt to fulfil the request swiftly of a guest as honoured as this one [ might she not know about these thoughts? ].

     ♢ " I do attempt to gather as much knowledge as possible. "     For false judgments had been made before, those that would bring sorrow and pain towards his loved ones; his own behaviour a step too far, nearly destroying the lives of those closest to him. Ah, a thought that should not linger right now, so a shake of his head follows all the while. No, not now, while Aymeric smiles and brings the fine crystal cups and pot towards the nearest table, the tea could be presented in only a few more heartbeats to come.

    ♢ " If you are so inclined and in search of something specific, I might aid you in finding a tome or two in my chambers. "     After all, there was always something for the Warrior of Light to attain.

[doustadig]

★ || Umiko

SHE COUNTS HERSELF AMONGST THE BRAMBLES,   not amongst the snow.  starlight offers some wavering semblance of comfort but they are too distant,  too haunting.  when she realised all she was gazing up upon were the graveyards of other celestial bodies,  she took to the clear night sky less and less,  yet every-time she is moved all the same.  coldness bites at unwilling heels,  and one might think she,  of all folk,  should grow used to the cold when it bends and bleeds so freely. 

❛  you needn’t go through the trouble. ❜   she knows she should count herself lucky.  one life left to live.  two houses marked by pleasant hearthfire.  it was all so very homely despite the circumstances.  her hands are brought together in tender fists.   ❛   but  …  that is a tempting offer and i would be foolish to refuse.  ❜   she spoke lowly,  eyes fixated elsewhere.  ❛   the sight of snow is still strange to me  ❜

          ♢ While for him, the sight of the snow was comforting, feeling like home in a place that was bereft of summer--- he had only seen the outside a few minute times and it still felt like a world that was beyond his reach.      " It is no trouble at all. "      Affirmation given was smooth, just like the movement of his arm to redirect them somewhere more private, to a place of more comfort.

     ♢ " I can only imagine. I know nought else since I was a child. "

    ♢ They were not far off from the Lord Commander’s house, would be awaited by his manservant to inquire the need for anything.     " I can make us something to drink. Would you like something specific? "     They would enter the living room, something warm and inviting, a fire burning brightly for the servants had awaited their Lord's return [ yet not expected a guest, would it not matter to them still ]. She had never been in here, correct?

    ♢ With the rows upon rows of books. With the pleasantries of lush seats and warm blankets.     " Please take a seat, you are my guest. "

[doustadig]

♢ || Estinien

Venture outside? He’d thought his friend more sensible than this. But then how many times had he stopped him from tumbling headfirst into messy affairs? Continuing his path to the training ground, Estinien disagreement is voiced. ❝ Have you gone daft? Whilst under normal circumstances I would trust you to have my back, I fear we might well find ourselves overwhelmed if beasts set upon us. ❞ A shake of his head, followed by another wave of his hand motioning for Aymeric to keep up with him. No, they wouldn’t head outside today. Not until the two of them had some form of mastery over the lance and bow they now carried. ❝ ‘Tis a simple task to take us down with these weapons. We’re easy pickings. So nay, the training ground it will be. ❞ 

The proposition of drinks does earn the elezen a small huff of laughter. ❝ Hm. Whoever loses shall pay for them, I presume? ❞ A wager, and one he fully planned on winning. Smirk growing, Estinien glances back towards Aymeric. ❝ At the end of this, I’ll make sure you’re the one buying the ale. ❞ There’s a feeling, an inkling in the back of his mind that he’d later find himself eating those words as he had many times before. If anyone was capable of proving themselves time and time again, it was his friend.  ❝ What do you say? ❞

          ♢ " 'Tis was but a jest. I know well enough we should not head anywhere like this."     No, there were other times and more suitable ones, to find a target or two that they could slay together, brandishing new-found skills that they had not had the moment or time to acquire before. Who better to train them than a master of their own art?

     ♢ It would not take too long till they reach the training grounds, prepared and organised for a group of young dragoons to later take up their lessons, easily could it be spotted just by this or that target placed around. How suitable, but Aymeric would have no hard time to prepare all needed for Estinien's attempts.     " Whoever loses shall pay, indeed. "     There was something devilish: a grin he shows not many people if not for his dearest friend. If not in their bantering privacy they had so little possibility to share---

    ♢ ---    " We shall see who will make who pay~ "

    ♢ It is only then that he would remove the lance from his back, twirl it slowly, meticulously, in his hand, wrist bending not, the ease with which he fulfils such a little trick shall merely be a reminder of his skill with bow and sword.     " Alright then. "     He waits now, gestures for Estinien to pick up a train of thought, a target for him to attack.     " Tell me what to do, my attention is all on you. "

[doustadig]

♢ || Estinien

Astonishment lights up his face when Aymeric speaks. ❝ A bow? Surely you jest. I have no need for such a thing– ❞ Words die in his mouth and Estinien sighs softly, running a hand through his hair. The dragoon knew the man well enough at this point. Protest though he may, if he wanted his friend to learn alongside him, he’d have to try. And so the elezen picks one up from the armoury rack, holding it gingerly. This would certainly prove interesting. ❝ Very well. If only to prevent you from being killed should you choose to brandish a spear against your foes. ❞  

Estinien’s never used a bow before [ or, if he ever had, it was a long time ago ] though recalls his Father’s own resting near the front door as a child. It was to defend them from dragons, he’d said with a smile. Hands tighten around it, mouth pursing. What good had that done any of them in the end? An impulse to throw it down and walk away grows, but–

If he put it down, then his sole friend might well die when only a spear was available to him. And what had his training taught him? This pain he felt, this ache in his heart– What use was it if he wasn’t directing it towards their enemy? Directing it towards those who had robbed him of everything? 

Turning around to face Aymeric, brows furrowed and determination burning in his eyes anew, his hand waves towards the training dummies. ❝ Come, my friend. Let us see who learns faster. ❞

          ♢ It was meant as a tease. A little challenge to keep them wrapped up in their togetherness that could be quite so scarce and quick to be over as duty would demand it. Watching his friend take up the bow, holding it like it was a precious treasure, he couldn't help the small chuckle leaving his lips, hidden behind a raised hand in obvious amusement. He appeared as unknowing as Aymeric was to wield a spear, even though Ishgard's finest soldiers would call it their weapon of choice. Alas, they all were different and who would wonder? Raised uniquely, had diverse experiences, pasts---

     ♢ ---he only knew so much about Estinien just yet, eyes softened just a tad when watching his friend struggle with the item he had brought him to pick up. He could ask, yet would not let his assumptions lead him on, gaze rising from fingers wrapped tightly around carved wood, back towards those beautiful and attentive eyes of his friend.     " Alright, alright~ "     Later.

    ♢ Lance in his own grasp would be turned and shifted, securely tucked away to rest on his back.

    ♢ " Shall we leave then? We might either use the training grounds or venture outside. "     The latter might induce some protest, specifically given creasing brows and taunting words dropped before, but himself would remember back to old times, would think about a dragon slain when they had worked together.     " Or we can first do one and then the other. "     Mayhap a small way to stem displeasure before it would even arise, an arm extended for him to follow along.     " And after that, we should go for a little drink~ "      A jest, also a ways to remember back to a time that seemed far too long behind. Something lighter than whatever does swirl in his dearest dragoon’s mind.

[doustadig]

♢ || Umiko

❛  i did not mean to disturb you,  lord commander.  ❜   SHE CRADLES HERSELF,  a sum of warmth pulled out from the bitter cold outside.  before she did not know snow,  or frost,  or ice. before she only knew the syncopated beats of the red sun.  now she knows winter as one should,  she knows how hearth - fire  (  hearth or heart ?  ) must be cared for.  offering no more than a subtle nod and a glance,  she marks the solid ishgardian framework,  and the way snow dances atop glass.   ❛  sleep doesn’t come to me easily. ❜  

                                          @doustadig​ ,

          ♢ While watching attentively how she moves and protects herself, his reaction was to aid momentarily in this endeavour, for little does he care for the biting cold at this moment. So, he shrugs off his coat, handing it over to her and - if allowed - would place it upon her shoulders.     " There is no disturbance in your presence. "     How truthful it was, for as well himself had only meant to wander for a while, to look at the city's state without any voices raised and questions directed.

     ♢ " If you can not sleep. I may offer you a bit of company--- "     While bright eyes glance up at the endless, cloud-covered sky.     " ---Or mayhap a warm drink somewhere more secluded and warm. “

[lazhadeg]

@doustadig​ / nonverbal memes

❝ You look like you’re about to starve, Aymeric. ❞ Hair shoved into a messy ponytail, he peers at the elezen over the bubbling pot. It’s a cold night on the mountains, with nought but the sound of distant owls to keep them company [ he should be grateful. Better than the sound of roaring dragons ]. ❝ Not used to missing out on a few meals? Though I suppose we have nought but ourselves to blame. ❞ Despite the sharp grin on his face, the memories of them losing what food and ingredients they had certainly remained a sore spot. True, leaving it so close to roaming chocobos, even momentarily, never ended well for anyone. But for one to sneak up, snatch it, and then sprint off into the distance?  

No man or beast could hope to catch up, tried though he had to the other’s amusement. 

At least his talents as a burgeoning dragoon had served well when it came to later hunting and foraging around the area. 

Grabbing a ladle from the side he gives the stew one final stir before unceremoniously dumping some into a bowl. ❝ Here. This will fill you up. It’s a Coerthan meal; we used to eat it during the winters to keep us warm and healthy. ❞  He knows how Ishgardians perceive it, how they speak of such cooking. It’s enough to cause a frown when he hands the bowl over to Aymeric, a mutter about how they simply had no taste leaving his lips.

He doesn’t notice how his friend has moved spots and taken a place at his side until he feels a weight upon him.

Estinien freezes up for a moment, staring down at the waves of black hair resting on his shoulder. Perhaps Aymeric was less resistant to the cold air than previously thought? Was the blanket truly not helping? And though he was seldom pleased about such unexpected touch, he permits it anyway. Puts an arm around him, allowing him to seek the warmth desired [ there would be not freezing to death here ]. ❝ Go on. It’s not much, but it’ll be enough for tonight. ❞  His own stomach begins to complain a little – Why is he feeding his friend, but not himself? He too wonders about it, ponders, before shrugging it off. Once the elezen cuddled up to him had finished, Estinien would get some. No point in disturbing the other now that he’d made himself comfortable. ❝ There’s more in the pot if you want seconds. Just leave me a little, would you? ❞

[doustadig]

♢ || Haurchefant

❝ Come now. You already spend plenty of time gracing me with your undivided attention and sweet words – Allow yourself to be the centre of mine own tonight. ❞ The tug on his collar makes him meet Aymeric’s gaze, stare at those remarkable eyes that haunted him so [ they were always there in his dreams, his thoughts ]. Haurchefant allows himself to drink the sight in, then smiles. ❝ Pardon my forwardness, but I’ve always found your eyes to be terribly captivating. They hold incredible gentleness, kindness, yet also show tremendous strength. I’d be content to find myself lost in them forever. ❞

Fingers glide over the Lord Commander’s cheek, head lightly tilting as that smile begins to soften. ❝ They’re a reflection of yourself, I suppose. People oft say the eyes are the mirror to the soul – I confess, I’m rather enamoured by such concepts. ❞ By him. His whole being, everything. Eventually, the hand that readjusted his clothing is lifted to his lips and a light kiss finds itself bestowed.  ❝ But shall we not head further in? As much as I would like to keep your attention to myself, few would be pleased if their Lord Commander didn’t show his handsome face. ❞

         ♢ Charming words like a symphony would drip from partner's lips the more and more Aymeric would care for that bit of not-quite-perfect attire clinging to tall form. Oh, he could listen to these soft revelations for all eternity, yet finds himself distracted in his business when fingers touch his cheek, when head lifts as if per a silent request. His eyes? Oh, yes, many had commented on them, on their shine, their brilliance, the softness - all words that mean nothing if not spoken by a source of warmth and tenderness as this. After all? They held the same colour as his late father's---

     ♢ ---no, nothing of that thought, brushed away with a smile.     " How striking. I oft wondered what they may show to you. "     To him. Not to anybody else, few and in between those he truly trusts, after all. But that is a topic for a later time before a mere breathed laugh would leave from his throat.     " Very well. We shall go then. "     Taking hands off of him was such an elaborate endeavour when the hand kissed had found itself stroking with gentle fingertips along Haurchefant's chin, slowly, tenderly. Easing all details into his mind.     " Who do you think will be around? We did extend the invitation to all over Eorzea. "

[doustadig]

♢ || Estinien

@doustadig​​

❝ As competent as you are with a bow and sword, holding a spear like that will resort in nought else but your death, Ser Aymeric. ❞ Despite the teasing, a frown presents itself upon Estinien’s face; just where had he learnt such a thing? Surely it hadn’t come from observing the other Knight Dragoons. ❝ ‘Tis as though I’m watching a babe stumble towards battle for the first time – mayhap I should offer you my help? ❞

          ♢ It is not quite a surprise that he would appear less suited for this task than others the Dragoon had observed before; after all: it was just not his main skill, not the very thing he had worked to perfect for uncountable years. Still, the mocking and teasing tone had a frown in liking appear on Aymeric's face before he all but exhales the softest of sighs. Surely, listening to Estinien would help him improve---

     ♢ ---better than listening to anybody else.     " If you would be so kind, who am I to refuse? "     His smile that followed was still soft before a small bout of laughter leaves his lips. A little thought would settle in his mind.     " How about it? "     Just because he wanted to see.     " You show me how to use a spear, and I am to witness your skills with a bow. "

[positivesummons-deactivated2020]

are  you  looking  for  people  to  write  in  the  same  fandom  as  you  but  you’re  having  a  hard  time   to   find   them  ?      you’ve  come  to  the  right  place  !     this   blog   has   the   intention   to   create   a   masterlist,  yet  to  be  created   I    need    volunteers          to  appear  on  this  masterlist  please  reblog  this  post  with  the  tags         be  sure  to  add  the  following  to  your  tags  :  

           canon   or   original  character                 multi-muse   or     single  muse                  character  name            

[doustadig]

@lazhadeg:      ‘ i am not accustomed to love. this is a learning experience. ‘

     Love, as an idea, was such a fickle thing to understand. Stricken by grief, by anger, by pain, endlessly turning and tossing in storms that were [ and should not be? ] not theirs to fight. Yet thoughts and emotions blossom, grow stronger and become more and more, while it had festered over uncountable years, had found a root and grown into a sprout still shy and hidden in the shadows of the larger trees. Thus the words resound around him the moment his partner ushered ideas and thoughts [ he adores the fact that Estinien would not hold them back ] that set him to blink in confusion, pondering upon all the tiny little bits and pieces offered to him.

    He couldn’t help but smile about it then, a soft peal of laughter leaving his lips. How quaint.     “ I believe you learn very well. ”     Believes him to be capable. To be unneeding of these words of slight self-deriding nature, undermining all they had accomplished by now. That little sprout having grown, higher and higher, pushing itself beyond with every beam of light it would be able to catch. Slowly, ever so slowly, naturally - nothing that needed to be taught.     “ I believe you are perfect in this, the way you are. ”     How it falls so simple from his lips while he is quite so close, hearts beating in unison, and each just offering the perfect skip to keep them captivated, to keep them enraptured in their togetherness.

    He does not know why his thoughts spiral around giving reassurance as swiftly and simply as he does, barely a second passing before he raises a hand to brush over fine contours of his lover’s face. Always, always would he want to map them out and keep them in mind, would not want to lose them, would not want to forget them in only a blink of time, and all the more days they were apart.

    Sometimes, he thinks, he is quite a romantic fool: and knows well enough that, despite the faint reminders of a blush and embarrassment colouring Estinien’s cheeks, he would be chided for this thought alone.

    Cherished, wanted, enjoyed.

    With how pure and fine these instances between them were; in a world that was dark and haunting. One that hurt them both so much more than many others could imagine [ and yet? he knows well enough, Aymeric is aware that he had to fight on - for everybody ]. But still, he wanted to be selfish in these instances: weeks, sometimes months could keep them apart and always, every time, would he wait. Every waking hour [ and even in his dreams ] he knows his partner would return to him. Hearing his murmured wishes and prayers for his safety as every once in a while he should catch the Commander still up late. One would want to question his forbearance. And some had even done so with quiet whispers towards once another, never ceasing the incessant nagging that, one time after the other, the Speaker should turn and find himself someone that stayed. That remained.

    Truth be told, he could only smile about that. An adoration like his own? - with the person that had captivated heart years prior, when only a simple glance would have it beat that littlest bit faster, making the cold chill of the surrounding easily disappear - it was hard to come by, and was repaid in perfectly crafted fragility to be unfolded like the fine petals of a flower would.     ' Aymeric. '     This simple word that drawls from the Dragoon's mouth who had caught his wrist between careful fingers to guide it towards his lips to bestow the lightest of kisses against it.

    A pause. A few faint chimes of the clock behind his back, waiting and watching so attentively, not even a single sound may disturb him from current observation. He knows that Estinien wants to say something. Ask something. And waits patiently till the words are found.

    ’ But for how long will you allow me to learn? ’     Softened and lowered, as if anybody could hear them and judge him for this little bout of insecurity that was washed away by the most brilliant of smiles.

    " For all the time you need. ”

[doustadig]

♢ || Lex

That was much, much easier than Lex anticipated. It looked like all of his preparation and countermeasures worked! Asking Lucia to serve as backup was worth it. 

He clapped his hands together, walking backwards out of the office as he talked. “Well, first thing’s first. You’ve never been to Costa del Sol, right? It’s a popular tourist spot, but the couple of times I’ve escorted you to the rest of Eorzea we haven’t had time to visit.” Which brought him to his first concern. “By the way, do you own any light, cool clothing? You’re going to need it. If not…” He put a hand on his chin. “We might have to go shopping when we hit Limsa, or the beach in general but they’re wildly over priced…”

          ♢ At times he wonders about the attention some of those esteemed friends of his would offer him, and could not help but, after a moment's consideration and the desire to protest, simply let himself be for a while. Lucia had his utmost trust, so the knowledge that Ishgard would be in good hands put a well-needed feeling of calm upon his mind.

     ♢ He raises a hand in thought to his chin.     " I have not. It is quite rare for me to leave my place, after all--- "     The next few words had him halt, a light smile playing upon his lips.     " ---And no, I do not. It is not useful in this climate, as you undoubtedly know. So I would assume that we need to purchase some things. "     And he will not have Lex pay for it.     " I will take money along. It should be fine like this, no? "