A/N: ooh i love this request so much!! i hope these are to your liking dearest anon ♡
𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐄𝐍 𝐖𝐘𝐑𝐌𝐁𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐃
it was in the way you sliced not only your foes but the way you sliced through the air as well when you were in battle
you may or may not worship halone but either way you were clearly bestowed the gift of combat prowess by her grace
when you’d have sparring matches together, estinien would never go easy on you as he finds that disrespectful but you knock the breath out of him physically and metaphorically whenever you win
there was a day where the practice match ended in you managing to get estinien’s back to fall atop the ground and you were pointing your weapon’s tip at him proudly from your standing position
“don’t tell me you’ve gone easy on me, wyrmblood,” you smirk
estinien stares up at you with wide eyes as he feels his heart skip a beat
but he quickly schools his elegant elezen features into his usual scowl
“of course not. who do you take me for?”
laughing, you help him up and he swears the contact between your hands ignited something within him, something different and incomparable to nidhogg’s rage that he felt all the time
he comes to find your laugh is like music to his ears
he also realizes he wants to hear more of the sound, and he uses that dry humor of his to elicit more of them from you from that day onwards which results in more small smiles from him
he’s doomed
𝐇𝐀𝐔𝐑𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐅𝐀𝐍𝐓 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐘𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐄
when he wrote and poured his heart into the missive that would later grant you and the scions access to ishgard, he stopped at one point after going on a spiel about you in ink
he had unwittingly went on to sing your highest praises and much of it read like a love letter
it was during his reminiscing of your good deeds as he wrote did he realize the pure adoration and emotion he felt for you
haurchefant gets embarrassed by himself, a blush rising to his cheeks as he sets the paper aside to start anew
he was nervous such a prodigious hero as yourself would not return his feelings
not only that but he did not want to risk his father blabbering about the contents of the missive to you
later, he sees you that day and feels his stomach doing somersaults
you were just so radiant, bringing hope and happiness wherever you tread
“be still my beating heart…” he mumbles to himself before he approaches you with a smile
as usual, he was his jovial and enthusiastic, caring self
but if one were to look closely enough, the dead giveaway of his love for you was evident within his eyes as they’d crinkle at the corners with his genuine smiles
𝐀𝐘𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐂 𝐃𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐋
he had always admired you from the moment he started following your expeditions and learning of your successes
but he never knew the extent of how deep his feelings ran for you as time had passed with working with you
it wasn’t until he invites you for a one-on-one dinner within the Borel manor
that evening he got to know you better, and the back and forth conversations you had over steak and wine did nothing but stoke the flames of his growing love
when the topic had shifted to romance, he felt heat circulating within his cheeks
the way you talked about your past lovers however, caused a different heat within him; one that bespoke of jealousy
it was an ugly feeling that twisted him on the inside, one he was not quite familiar with but nevertheless he hid it well
he had asked what you found attractive in a partner eventually totally for the sake of carrying conversation and not because he was curious to see if he was the warrior of light’s type nooooo
aymeric found himself comparing his likeness to your standards and it suddenly hit him with startling clarity mid-way through rejoicing internally that he shared your type’s physical attributes
uh oh
the concern on your face when he lets his mask slip for just a moment makes him fall even harder for you if anything
with his newfound revelation, he says nothing is amiss and diverts your attention towards sharing your experiences with beastmen
During a pleasant day spent hunting and exploring a system of canyons and caves (an original location in the game world and definitely not just the Cutter's Cry zones everyone skips), Valena discovers an oasis where she makes camp for the evening.
This lizard would like it noted in the official record that she was not sunning herself on a rock like a lizard, and certainly didn't fall asleep there.
Well, to be fair, while I might make lizard jokes and declare lizard girl supremacy, I don't believe the au ra to be reptilian in any sense. Nor are they draconic — that is reductive Ishgardian propaganda, and I would ask you not to repeat it. The Dragonsong War is over, and it's time to unlearn such things.
But no, I think the au ra make the most anatomical sense if they are scaled mammals, like pangolins.
We might pale in comparison to most other races on this front, but we still have too much booba to be lizard.
You walked into the Holy see of Ishgard with your companions taking in all the beauty around you. You had entered this city with good intentions in mind and you stood near the foundation with Alphinaud and Tataru, you inhaled the crisp cold air. You were not sure why, but you felt at home here despite knowing you were merely an outsider.
A tall Elezen man in chainmail walked up to you and greeted "Welcome to Ishgard warrior of light, Ser Aymeric summons you to the Lord commanders seat for an audience with you and your friends" he said with a low bow. You exchange glances with Alphinaud. Despite helping the Scions you were still uncomfortable with politics let alone discussing such topics in depth. You were simply doing what was right by you in the name of Hydaelyn. A part of you was glad Alphinaud was there to help out, despite the Ishgardian temperatures you were sweating at the mention of Aymeric. A tall Elezen man you had encountered before but never had a proper conversation with.
The 3 of you ran up to the Congregation of Our Knights most heavenly near The pillars and opened the gate. Ahead of you was a big wooden table on which laid a map with small soldier statues laid out, and right beside the gate was a wooden door which was guarded by an Elezen soldier. It was the gate to the seat of lord commander. Tataru and Alphinaud stood behind you allowing you to take the lead. You took a deep breath and pressed forward opening the door. Aymeric sat there on his chair. He had an upright posture with a smile on his face he said "My warmest greetings to the warrior of light and the Scions. I am tremendously happy to have you here. After all I have witnessed you defeat Shiva myself. Please take a seat..." he gestured at the chairs before his desk.
All 3 of you sat down as you smiled and spoke "Ser Aymeric..." and he immediately interjected, "Aymeric, please." You felt a bit relieved as the atmosphere softened "Aymeric, we are grateful you allowed us entry into Ishgard via Coerthas. We heard about the Nidhogg attack planned by the heretics. I believe we can help". Aymeric seemed to look at you even more intently as you caught his interest. You looked at Alphinaud for reassurance and continued "I will go hunt down the hiding location of the heretics and personally make sure that the preparations of such an attack are discontinued. Even if it means to go to Dravania" Aymeric replied with a stoic expression "I see you wish to help our front line forces. I am truly honoured but even for the warrior of light such a task seems difficult especially without the support of Midgarsommar." You smiled noticing his concern "I believe if you let me, I will." You said with a beam.
Aymeric liked the way you talked, the way you cared for Ishgard but for now, he was not ready to risk it. He knew you were powerful but now was not the right time to bust the heretics, their plans were far from concrete and there would be no solid evidence to present to Thorden Vii. Aymeric got up from his seat and said "Thank you y/n..." he stuttered and asked "May I call you that" you felt your cheeks turn hot you replied rather excitedly "Yes Aymeric...". He smiled warmly and continued "I believe you can help with the Ishgardian restoration before heading to Dravania, so please stay here with me and assist me. Not only is this a way to make you feel at home but I will rather benefit from having your opinions. Maybe you will understand more about the war as well". Upon hearing this you felt a bit speechless not only were you far from understanding politics and strategy but being invited to assist the Lord commander of Ishgard was beyond your capabilities. Even Lucia, who was standing behind Aymeric as a silent guard seemed to let slip a shocked expression.
The next day you woke up early and started getting ready. When suddenly you heard a knock on the door, it was one the housemaids. She was holding a dress in her arms. You had a confused look but without a word she left it on your dresser. You proceeded to unravel the silky cloth. It was a long beautiful traditional dress with a note that read "Dear y/n, I want you to have the best Ishgardian treatment. Please accept this dress as my gratitude. Yours, Aymeric" you held the dress close to you with a cheeky smile. Your face had already turned red at the thought of the Lord commander picking out a dress for you.
You quickly got ready and donned the dress. You met him near the Ishgardian Orthodox church he was wearing his royal blue coloured uniform that complimented his striking blue eyes. He finally caught sight of you and smiled brightly "y/n good morning, shall we proceed to the sea of clouds" you nodded and followed behind him.
Haurchefaunt was waiting near the airship landing ready to provide reports of spotted heretic activities in the area, along with minor issues that the soldiers had. Lady Marielle had complaints about how Emmanellain would not stop trying to bed her. A complaint to which your ears perked. Your brows instantly turned into a frown "Bed you? How can a soldier on duty go to bed? Shame on him trying to make you laze on a fine morning" Lady Marielle, Haurchefaunt and Aymeric looked at you with a shocked expression. You noticed and thought maybe it was due to your sudden outburst. Though you did not let this deter you, as duty completion meant a lot to you, and soldiers sleeping on duty was unacceptable.
You stepped forward and raised your voice gathering a crowd before you. "I y/n warrior of light condemn any attempts to bed the soldiers, I shall hereby remove any and all frontline soldiers who shall participate in such activities." Never had Aymeric moved so fast but with one swift grip on your arm he pulls you away taking the front stage. He instantly assumes his stoic commander role and exclaims "Apologies on the behalf of the warrior of light, The Ishgardian officials shall not control or monitor soldiers personal lives for as long as Ishgard remains safe. we shall now take your leave". Everyone scurries off as Haurchefant snickers and waves at his soldiers as he takes his leave as well.
You look at Aymeric confused and a sinking feeling in your heart not knowing why he had to cover up for you. "I'm sorry Aymeric why would you dismiss such lack of professionality just like that?", Aymeric rid his confused expression and wore his calm smile again "y/n I think you must talk with Lucia when we get back", you spat back "No Aymeric, I need you, to talk to me." Aymeric looked left and right as if trying to make sure no one was listening. He leaned in "y/n please try to understand, I can not explain this to you..." You raise your eyebrows "Aymeric please at least tell me what's wrong...". He scratches his head and stutters "Well taking someone to bed refers to the devils tango". You look at him with puppy dog eyes and tilt your head to the side "I beg your pardon?", Aymeric laughs he never thought he would see the warrior of light put in such a place.
"y/n I...I don't know a better way to put it. Maybe creating a small life together is more explanatory", You gave a relieved expression and laughed "I get it now, oh god I'm so stupid" Aymeric angrily exclaims "Absolutely not, it was a naive mistake", You blush at his words "I should have known they were just summoners, they must be learning to summon Bahamut. I genuinely feel sorry for saying those words to them." These words throw Aymeric's composure off again, he realised you genuinely had no idea what this meant. "Y/n I need to stop you again, but this phrase has nothing to do with being a summoner." He gave you a very upset look. This riles you up "Aymeric, please be clear with me. Show me what taking someone to bed means then. Take me to bed with you Aymeric" You said loudly in rage, as your voice echoed through the walls of camp cloud top. Aymeric was stunned, his cheeks flushed red but not due to the cold wind. All the Elezen soldiers turned towards both of your directions. For a moment it was so silent you could almost hear other peoples thoughts.
Everyone was mocking and laughing before resuming their activities. "y/n please...I...I do not think you should say that again" Aymeric whispered, you had tears in your eyes. Your mind was a big mess, trying to make sense of things and all your mistakes today. "Ser Aymeric. I think I will take leave for now." You used his formal name and then proceeded to teleport back to the foundation.
You ran crying towards the Pillars towards house Fortemps manor where you were. You had been made a mockery of today, and the man you had placed your faith in did not step forward to help you. Feeling embarrassed you headed towards your room and locked the door, proceeding to bury your face in the pillow.
Later in the evening, you heard a knock on the door, you opened it to find the Fortemp house steward gesturing the lord commander towards you. Aymeric was in casual wear and had a sorry look on his face, "y/n sorry for this abrupt visitation but...I think I owe you a formal apology, will you allow me?" He said while asking for permission to enter your room. Your eyes were still wet "Well of course lord commander your wish is my command after all" you said with a hint of sarcasm. Aymeric entered your room closing the door behind you both and taking a seat on the sofa next to the window. You joined him silently waiting for him to speak first.
"y/n you look beautiful with the twilight of Ishgard reflecting upon your features.", you look up at him still silent. He further adds "Today must have been hard for you, and I am sorry for being a part of the problem", he lowers his gaze apologetically "My immaturity landed you in a difficult position. I should have simply explained to you what taking someone to bed means in the moment. Instead, I left you wondering and making petty mistakes that led to an embarrassing situation for both of us." You finally break your silence "So what does it mean?".
Aymeric lifts his piercing blue eyes and looks into yours, he saw innocence within. He saw the clarity in your soul and how you wanted to help with the Ishgardian restoration because of the goodness in your heart. He has always had feelings for you, but they never manifested into something so passionate till this very moment. In a deep voice he says "If you would allow me to show you...", You maintained eye contact with him with an eager curiosity nod your head in compliance.
he stands up from the sofa and takes your hand guiding you towards your bed. He sits down and asks you to take a seat right beside him. You slowly feel him pull the knot at the back of the dress he gifted open. It slips off your skin easily, wearing nothing beneath it you can feel him set his sight upon your bareback. He starts planting kisses along your shoulder line, breathing heavy, taking in your scent. His hands were holding your waist tightly. A moan escaped your parted lips, giving Aymeric goosebumps. He gently but firmly holds you by your shoulders and shifts your body to face him.
Your face is now close to his he plants a kiss on your lips. You both were kissing passionately, with each breath only to go in deeper. His hands moved from your shoulders to your supple breasts. He squeezed and groped causing both of you to moan in between kisses. You hold his broad shoulders tightly. When the kissing ended you both slowly pull away maintaining eye contact, knowing exactly where this night was headed. He took off his tunic and opened his arms asking for an embrace and you leapt in for a hug. Both your naked chests rubbed together as he pushed you back on the bed ending up on top of you.
The creaking of the bed echoed through the fortemps manor. Lord fortemps sat on the dinner table with his 3 sons in complete silence. He felt an uncomfortable sweat roll down his cheek as a bit of rubble fell from the ceiling directly above as the squeaking of the bed got louder. Emmanellain cleared his throat loudly, exclaiming "For someone who gave a speech about not taking anyone to bed we are sure breaking rules over here".
I’ve been thinking about the way Zenos interacts with people of different genders. this led me to believing that ingame Zenos/WoL interactions are geared more towards male characters & male players. (at least in Stormblood)
with WoL, it’s a dick measuring contest, all smugness & aggression a la “Come at me, bro!”, p much how a guy would treat his rival.
then look at how he treats Yotsuyu & Fordola. I personally don’t think he would’ve been quite as merciful towards them after their failures if they’d been guys.
I don’t know how/if his behavior changed in EW, haven’t gotten there yet.
Zenos would’ve been a total momma’s boy if she’d lived, mark my words.
Shoutout to the anon who said they really love Gaius. We are in this together!
(This is definitely not self-indulgent....LMAO)
-Not a really an openly affectionate man. Maybe hand-holding but it would be brief. Or a kiss on the temple when no one is around. Despite him not expressing his affections in that manner, Gaius definitely shows his love through acts of service and words of affirmation if his partner really needs to hear it.
-Actually has doubts in his ability to make his partner happy. He constantly is fighting thoughts of "Am I worthy enough for them? Do I really deserve to be happy after everything I have done? How can they stay by my side when threat looms over me? Can I really give them the life they want?". This relationship definitely requires some patience and tons of reassurance.
-Going on a date with Gaius? Again, not really the type to go out on dates but will if it makes his partner happy. He prefers just spending time with them alone, by a warm fire, in each others arms and just talking about anything and everything.
-Very protective. Even when he is very busy Gaius will go out of his way to be with his partner when they go out. He worries for their safety and would feel incredibly guilty if something bad happened to them. Low-key is also worried about them because his enemies could target his partner to get to Gaius.
-Since Gaius is an early riser he really enjoys those precious moments where he can look down at his partner and admire their beauty. The peaceful expression they have as they sleep is something Gaius wants to protect. It motivates him everyday to fight for a better future. A peaceful future where he hopes he can experience with his partner.
-If his partner is a fighter like him, Gaius will insist he takes the lead to protect them while they keep a distance. If they happen to be a melee fighter, Gaius will keep careful eye on them throughout the fights, though he does the best he can to put his trust in them. He is just afraid they might get seriously hurt or worse. But he won't let his doubts make him become too overbearing.