And warmer too. Here, make yourself comfortable first, then we can worry about it. There's a stocked kitchen and I've been making my room as guest-friendly as possible.
[ In from the cold at last! She'll lead him to her room which is- surprisingly looking like an actual cute room now, flowers and fabric and blues- and even a nice little floor space to sit at with books from the library. ]
Come in any time, aye? The only others who will would be Aymeric and Estinien.
[He makes a beeline for the nearest place to sit, his wings wrapped more about him while he tries to warm up from being out in the cold.]
Can I really come here any time I like? I would be taking advantage of your hospitality far too much if I did.
[Can he just not leave? She's here and she's safe. He can figure out the rest of his worries - namely the separation from his sister - later. He wants to be with Megumi.]
You can. Only Aymeric and Estinien come in here unannounced, as I've allowed them.
[ She's made a seating area on the floor, very Hingan, though there are chairs she brought in for the desk as well.
And she has some snacks stored away, things that won't spoil like nuts and dried fruit, so she brings some over for him and settles down next to him- as well as a wrap made from some fabrics in the costume store to cover his shoulders under his wings. ]
[ Goodness, the poor thing. She moves her arm around him, so he can wrap his wing around them and she can share in her body heat. ]
Goodness, love, you're shivering. Are you feeling unwell already? I'll bring you some hot tea, right away. But we need to warm you up first.
[ She rubs his arm a bit and takes his hand in hers. ]
'twasn't like this when we arrived. Though much has happened since... that we should perhaps speak of. Some that I would rather speak of sooner than later, about Estinien and Aymeric.
Aye... I was surprised they felt such a way at all. Aymeric, especially... he courted me so gracefully, I didn't even realize...
[ Her cheeks are burning and she touches her hair absently. She's not this easily flustered, ever, so the fact that she is... ]
And Estinien, he... you know he's bad at expressing himself, and even then...
[ They've always been partners as dragoons, sharing the title of the Azure, but this is... Her ears lift as she laughs sheepishly. Even though she knows Aymeric and Estinien would harm themselves before even thinking of hurting her, she jokes- ]
They'd best dread the day they do hurt me, if they have to face you at the end of it, love.
[ She smiles fondly at him, relieved Alphinaud is taking this well. Her gaze softens as she leans in and bumps her forehead against his. ]
There's... more to it. Aside from Aymeric and Estinien having had feelings for one another, even before here... I encouraged them to speak their hearts. But- there are others here, who have also formed feelings for them in the time we've been in this place. And I would not hold them back, should they seek companionship beyond me.
They've been honest about their own wants, and full glad am I that they have. I just... didn't want to hide anything from you, Alphinaud.
I'd be lying if I said it wouldn't bother me, but... only a little, and not in a way that demands their attention. They aren't the type to dismiss someone over another, and such relationships are normal among miqo'te. We've spoken about our boundaries, so as long as everyone is honest, I will not doubt their intent.
[ Which is the best way to put things. She trusts them to be honest. But at his words, she laughs softly and purrs against him as she nuzzles his head. ]
I am happy... even if it's in a place like this. 'tis not as though we'd be able to share such feelings back home, aye?
[ Which is a little sad to admit, but not having time for their partners was why she got divorced in the first place. She wouldn't do that to anyone else again. ]
Mayhap you will find yourselves able to someday. I still haven't given up on my dream for peace, you know. There may yet come a time when you might be able to stop saving our star at every turn. You could be with your family... and with Estinien and Lord Aymeric.
[ It's a nice thought, and her ears flick as she rests her cheek against his soft hair. ]
If such a thing were to happen... who knows. I'd be happy so long as I could still see you all at peace, doing all that you love.
[ She means that. ]
Now, let's get you properly warmed up, aye? I'll be right back with your tea. And... [ She looks a little bashful. ] Thank you- Alphinaud. For hearing me out.
[ She seems a bit. Alarmed, really, and after reuniting with Estinien and Aymeric to see what they know-
Of course she's going to be racing to find Alphinaud wherever he is, now that her memories of this place are reconciling with the experience of all that happened back home.
Cue her finding him at (location of your choice) and calling his name— ]
[Well it's certainly out and about, on his way back to find her actually. He'd been exploring the library and decided to go see her before turning in. Lucky him to have her find her first, really.]
[ At least they're outdoors. She's changed into her regular clothes, but she definitely looks worn out and as soon as she sees Alphinaud, she rushes over to him and-
Scoops him into her arms, burying her face in his shoulder as she does. ]
[He makes a surprised noise when she scoops him up before answering his question. He wraps his arms around her too, his wings uncurling to envelop the both of them.
He remembers coming here, the fear of being separated so unbearable that it had only been alleviated by the sound of her voice, the sight of her smiling face. Now she can understand how close he'd come to losing her and how much it had broken his heart when he thought she might not wake up. He knows that she was okay when he left her and came here, but the memory and her words are enough to drag a broken noise from him - one of relief and the near - grief when he thought he'd lost one of his best friends.]
How? I'm- I'm so sorry I kept it from you. I didn't want you to know what Estinien and I did or how you nearly died- gods I was so afraid I couldn't heal you-!!
[He hugs her tighter, his voice shaking as he speaks.]
That kills her inside, even if she's healed now, even if she's helping out in Sharlayan again with Claudien- and Themis and Ericthonios with all the events of Pandaemonium after their adventure.
That Alphinaud had to hold it back- she finds herself kneeling and draws him in with her because having that knowledge is a weight in itself, but she doesn't let go of him, letting his wings cover them.
Even if they're out here. It doesn't matter. ]
My poor dear lad... sweet Alphinaud.
[ She shakes her head, squeezing him tight. ]
I awakened- and it was as though I'd lived that entire lifetime. Everything was... I'm still trying to reconcile it with here, but...
[ He's here. And so is she. ]
... by Menphina, forgive me. You've a lot of nerve saying that after what you and Alisaie pulled at Ultima Thule ...!
[ Punctuated with a choked laugh- indicating she's not really mad, but it did hurt her to have it happen! ]
[He lets out a weak chuckle at her chastising him.]
I knew we would need to light your path next, or I wouldn't have been willing to take the risk. That's all.
[He knows how it must have hurt her - losing all of their friends back to back like that was unbearable.]
You awakened with your memories... but that begs the question why you did not have them from the start. I suppose that's something to puzzle over for the time being while we try to sort out what we'll say to Estinien and Lord Aymeric. I don't want to keep things from them anymore.
I know... it didn't mean I didn't hate that it had to be that way.
[ The way her heart had grown heavy, the way everything had been so painful. She never wants to go through that again. Her fingers gently stroke his soft hair, thinking over his question. ]
Why I didn't have them... That's because mine own journey had yet to take me where it had taken you, by the time you arrived... when I was pulled here, anyroad.
[ She pulls back, cupping Alphinaud's cheek with a hand. ]
Estinien- and Aymeric both know. I spoke to them, and their memories align now, too. But I know they will want to speak with you... and be sure you're alright. My poor lad... you were holding all that in for so long, and wearing such a brave face. You must have been so troubled.
The only troubling thoughts I had were of how much effort I put into lying to you all.
[He's doing his best to keep his emotions in check, but the memory of her nearly dying is so fresh, even if he's moved on from that day and the Scions have gone their separate ways.]
I know I could never ask you to not put yourself in such danger again... but I want you to know, no matter what happens in this place I will always come to your aide and heal you from it.
[His voice shakes slightly and his hand captures hers against his cheek.]
You're a terrible liar if it helps any, my love. Even Estinien wondered about you hiding something.
[ She smiles warmly as she feels her heart ache- his words make her pull him back in and hold him against her shoulder once more. ]
'tis not something I'd put you and Alisaie— or any of you through again, as long as it is in my power. I can't promise, but I can always try. Especially now.
[ She hears the quiver and it just makes her hold him tighter. ]
Don't hold it back anymore, Alphinaud. Let it out... I'm here. I won't leave you.
[He's trying to convince himself, just as he tried to convince himself that lying was the right course of action. His arms wrap around her after a moment and she'll feel a wetness on her shoulder as he does indeed let the tears escape.
All of the anxiety about this place, the fact that he was lying to his best friends, and the fact that he's been separated from his sister all come flowing from him as he hugs her tighter.]
I apologize... if I might borrow your shoulder for a moment.
[He needed her, as his most important link to home, and he hoped that there might come a day when she needed him in this way too.]
[ Having cried her heart out when retelling the whole story to Aymeric, she knows how heavy and burdened he must feel— and feeling him cry not only makes her relieved, it makes her own eyes burn with the tears she still feels rising up every time she thinks of how it felt like she had lost her beloved friends.
Lost him and Alisaie. The two she loves so much and who have been with her from the beginning, even when she didn't know them.
Where for a moment, even she had no true reassurance that they would reunite.
And so her hand comes up over the back of his head, the other arm around his back to hold him as her face nestled against the side of his head. She can hear his sobs, and feel the boy's sadness as palpably as her own, and she simply lets him cry. ]
Don't... apologise at all, silly boy... I've always... told you to not hide... haven't I? You're not alone. You're not.
[ She places a kiss to his temple, though quietly sobbing herself, she doesn't let her tears flow. ]
You're so strong, so brave, my dearest Alphinaud. But you don't have to be all the time. I'm certainly not.
[ It takes a lot for her to admit that, and she squeezes him tight. ]
So be scared, and be sad. I'll catch your tears. And we'll sort our fears together.
[ Words she feels she's heard somewhere too... and she holds him protectively as she lets him cry. Whatever she has to do to bring hope back to him, she will. He's too dear to her to not. ]
I love you so much, you know that, aye? I need you just as much. Forgive me for being so selfish.
[He feels incredibly coddled by her, being allowed to cry openly like this. He can hardly complain about it, when he's doing the same for her. He takes a few moments to respond to her, instead just allowing the tears to wet his cheeks as he buries his face into her shoulder and shakes in her arms like a leaf. Eventually he pulls back to wipe his tears and then hers.]
Megumi... I love you too. So much. Estinien warned me about this place and... the more I think about it, the more I know I'm afraid of something happening to you again - something I can't fix.
[He smiles warmly, though his eyes still shine a bit with tears. One or two even break free as he tries to calm himself. He didn't want them to keep hurting over this. It was done with, wasn't it? They had made it home safely.]
If I am brave, it is only because I follow your example, my dearest friend. I know every word I wrote to Mother about you is true. You're the bravest - and occasionally most foolish - one among us. You've shouldered the star for so long... I'm glad we're friends, because I could never let you shoulder the weight alone either.
Edited (goddamn typos) Date: 2022-01-29 03:53 am (UTC)
[ She lets him pull away, but not too far, keeping her hands to the sides of his face and watching him as he talks. As strong as she knows she tries to be, Alphinaud and Alisaie are like her own brother is to her— and her own children. They're family. He is family.
And she's seen how much they've endured- how strong they've been through the worst. Alphinaud, especially, with everything he's gone through, the blows he's taken to his heart over time. Learning and growing from them and no matter how much she wishes she could shield him-
She runs her thumbs over his warm cheeks, wiping his tears gently and she gives him a weak chuckle at his words. He's not wrong- but she wouldn't have gotten so much done without being too careful. ]
I don't shoulder it alone at all. Not with all of you- you beautiful, mad, dear friends, all of you...
[ She pushes their foreheads together, closing her eyes and letting her own tears spill down her cheeks. ]
This place is like nothing we've known, and 'tis frightening... but there may be some things we may only have here that we may not back home. And I would not waste the chance to have them. So don't dread what hasn't happened...
[ She wipes his cheeks, before turning to pull out a handkerchief from her belt pouch, and wipes his cheeks for him- before she holds it to his nose- an almost playful gesture and gives him a smile. ]
... but I am glad you let it out. Don't you know I can tell when you're hiding things by now? Your ears blush, you know.
[ Just for some levity, so he can fluster over something else true or not, instead, as she lets him compose himself. ]
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timeasmymeasure
Day 16 - Estinien
Date: 2022-01-07 04:10 pm (UTC)We'll survive this place together. That at least I can promise with certainty.
Day 16 - Megumi
Date: 2022-01-07 04:15 pm (UTC)[He's too much of a rich boy to know things like sewing.]
Mayhap something simple would be a start.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-07 04:21 pm (UTC)[ In from the cold at last! She'll lead him to her room which is- surprisingly looking like an actual cute room now, flowers and fabric and blues- and even a nice little floor space to sit at with books from the library. ]
Come in any time, aye? The only others who will would be Aymeric and Estinien.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-09 07:27 am (UTC)Can I really come here any time I like? I would be taking advantage of your hospitality far too much if I did.
[Can he just not leave? She's here and she's safe. He can figure out the rest of his worries - namely the separation from his sister - later. He wants to be with Megumi.]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-09 08:05 am (UTC)[ She's made a seating area on the floor, very Hingan, though there are chairs she brought in for the desk as well.
And she has some snacks stored away, things that won't spoil like nuts and dried fruit, so she brings some over for him and settles down next to him- as well as a wrap made from some fabrics in the costume store to cover his shoulders under his wings. ]
Better?
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 12:08 am (UTC)It's not unlike Coerthas out there.
[And he'd been worse dressed at the time.]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 12:20 am (UTC)Goodness, love, you're shivering. Are you feeling unwell already? I'll bring you some hot tea, right away. But we need to warm you up first.
[ She rubs his arm a bit and takes his hand in hers. ]
'twasn't like this when we arrived. Though much has happened since... that we should perhaps speak of. Some that I would rather speak of sooner than later, about Estinien and Aymeric.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 12:27 am (UTC)[He was more worried about finding answers, wanting to find his friends too. He's found a few at least.]
There's more? [He chuckles a bit, just curling up into her warmth.]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 12:34 am (UTC)[ Why is she suddenly so nervous? It's Alphinaud. Alisaie would be the one shocked and teasing her. ]
... we're in a relationship.
[ Let's just start with that. ]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 01:06 am (UTC)[Well, he's certainly surprised! The wheels are turning in his head give him a minute.]
... And Lord Aymeric.
[Immediately looks away but it's very obvious by the light pink of his ears (or is that the cold?) he is blushing.]
I'm surprised either would be the type to want to share you.
[Looking back at her again, so as to at least show her he's not upset. Amused, he adds-]
Should I tell them that if they ever hurt you they'll have to answer to me?
[He's joking.]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 01:57 am (UTC)[ Her cheeks are burning and she touches her hair absently. She's not this easily flustered, ever, so the fact that she is... ]
And Estinien, he... you know he's bad at expressing himself, and even then...
[ They've always been partners as dragoons, sharing the title of the Azure, but this is... Her ears lift as she laughs sheepishly. Even though she knows Aymeric and Estinien would harm themselves before even thinking of hurting her, she jokes- ]
They'd best dread the day they do hurt me, if they have to face you at the end of it, love.
[ She smiles fondly at him, relieved Alphinaud is taking this well. Her gaze softens as she leans in and bumps her forehead against his. ]
There's... more to it. Aside from Aymeric and Estinien having had feelings for one another, even before here... I encouraged them to speak their hearts. But- there are others here, who have also formed feelings for them in the time we've been in this place. And I would not hold them back, should they seek companionship beyond me.
They've been honest about their own wants, and full glad am I that they have. I just... didn't want to hide anything from you, Alphinaud.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 03:49 am (UTC)It doesn't bother you if they show attention to other people?
[It only would bother him the tiniest bit should it ever make her unhappy.]
I want you to be happy first, before anyone else. Maybe even Estinien.
[He'd certainly known her longer, even if he loves them both dearly.]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 04:07 am (UTC)[ Which is the best way to put things. She trusts them to be honest. But at his words, she laughs softly and purrs against him as she nuzzles his head. ]
I am happy... even if it's in a place like this. 'tis not as though we'd be able to share such feelings back home, aye?
[ Which is a little sad to admit, but not having time for their partners was why she got divorced in the first place. She wouldn't do that to anyone else again. ]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-16 08:20 pm (UTC)Mayhap you will find yourselves able to someday. I still haven't given up on my dream for peace, you know. There may yet come a time when you might be able to stop saving our star at every turn. You could be with your family... and with Estinien and Lord Aymeric.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-16 08:48 pm (UTC)If such a thing were to happen... who knows. I'd be happy so long as I could still see you all at peace, doing all that you love.
[ She means that. ]
Now, let's get you properly warmed up, aye? I'll be right back with your tea. And... [ She looks a little bashful. ] Thank you- Alphinaud. For hearing me out.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-17 01:58 am (UTC)[He smiles softly and nods.]
You would do the same for me, so it's only right that I lend my support to you.
Day 16 - Jinx
Date: 2022-01-07 06:24 pm (UTC)Alphinaud Leveilleur. Mayhap you could offer your name as well?
Day 21, evening
Date: 2022-01-23 08:16 pm (UTC)Of course she's going to be racing to find Alphinaud wherever he is, now that her memories of this place are reconciling with the experience of all that happened back home.
Cue her finding him at (location of your choice) and calling his name— ]
Alphinaud!
Re: Day 21, evening
Date: 2022-01-23 10:19 pm (UTC)Megumi? Are you well?
no subject
Date: 2022-01-23 10:39 pm (UTC)Scoops him into her arms, burying her face in his shoulder as she does. ]
... aye. I am now. I'm back.
[ Which should be telling enough, but she adds- ]
I know now. I know everything that happened.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-23 10:55 pm (UTC)He remembers coming here, the fear of being separated so unbearable that it had only been alleviated by the sound of her voice, the sight of her smiling face. Now she can understand how close he'd come to losing her and how much it had broken his heart when he thought she might not wake up. He knows that she was okay when he left her and came here, but the memory and her words are enough to drag a broken noise from him - one of relief and the near - grief when he thought he'd lost one of his best friends.]
How? I'm- I'm so sorry I kept it from you. I didn't want you to know what Estinien and I did or how you nearly died- gods I was so afraid I couldn't heal you-!!
[He hugs her tighter, his voice shaking as he speaks.]
E n d w a l k e r SPOILERS
Date: 2022-01-23 11:41 pm (UTC)That kills her inside, even if she's healed now, even if she's helping out in Sharlayan again with Claudien- and Themis and Ericthonios with all the events of Pandaemonium after their adventure.
That Alphinaud had to hold it back- she finds herself kneeling and draws him in with her because having that knowledge is a weight in itself, but she doesn't let go of him, letting his wings cover them.
Even if they're out here. It doesn't matter. ]
My poor dear lad... sweet Alphinaud.
[ She shakes her head, squeezing him tight. ]
I awakened- and it was as though I'd lived that entire lifetime. Everything was... I'm still trying to reconcile it with here, but...
[ He's here. And so is she. ]
... by Menphina, forgive me. You've a lot of nerve saying that after what you and Alisaie pulled at Ultima Thule ...!
[ Punctuated with a choked laugh- indicating she's not really mad, but it did hurt her to have it happen! ]
I'm so... so glad you're safe. So glad.
Re: E n d w a l k e r SPOILERS
Date: 2022-01-24 04:06 am (UTC)I knew we would need to light your path next, or I wouldn't have been willing to take the risk. That's all.
[He knows how it must have hurt her - losing all of their friends back to back like that was unbearable.]
You awakened with your memories... but that begs the question why you did not have them from the start. I suppose that's something to puzzle over for the time being while we try to sort out what we'll say to Estinien and Lord Aymeric. I don't want to keep things from them anymore.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-24 04:20 am (UTC)[ The way her heart had grown heavy, the way everything had been so painful. She never wants to go through that again. Her fingers gently stroke his soft hair, thinking over his question. ]
Why I didn't have them... That's because mine own journey had yet to take me where it had taken you, by the time you arrived... when I was pulled here, anyroad.
[ She pulls back, cupping Alphinaud's cheek with a hand. ]
Estinien- and Aymeric both know. I spoke to them, and their memories align now, too. But I know they will want to speak with you... and be sure you're alright. My poor lad... you were holding all that in for so long, and wearing such a brave face. You must have been so troubled.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-29 12:59 am (UTC)[He's doing his best to keep his emotions in check, but the memory of her nearly dying is so fresh, even if he's moved on from that day and the Scions have gone their separate ways.]
I know I could never ask you to not put yourself in such danger again... but I want you to know, no matter what happens in this place I will always come to your aide and heal you from it.
[His voice shakes slightly and his hand captures hers against his cheek.]
I truly thought we had lost you.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-29 01:46 am (UTC)[ She smiles warmly as she feels her heart ache- his words make her pull him back in and hold him against her shoulder once more. ]
'tis not something I'd put you and Alisaie— or any of you through again, as long as it is in my power. I can't promise, but I can always try. Especially now.
[ She hears the quiver and it just makes her hold him tighter. ]
Don't hold it back anymore, Alphinaud. Let it out... I'm here. I won't leave you.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-29 02:45 am (UTC)[He's trying to convince himself, just as he tried to convince himself that lying was the right course of action. His arms wrap around her after a moment and she'll feel a wetness on her shoulder as he does indeed let the tears escape.
All of the anxiety about this place, the fact that he was lying to his best friends, and the fact that he's been separated from his sister all come flowing from him as he hugs her tighter.]
I apologize... if I might borrow your shoulder for a moment.
[He needed her, as his most important link to home, and he hoped that there might come a day when she needed him in this way too.]
no subject
Date: 2022-01-29 03:14 am (UTC)Lost him and Alisaie. The two she loves so much and who have been with her from the beginning, even when she didn't know them.
Where for a moment, even she had no true reassurance that they would reunite.
And so her hand comes up over the back of his head, the other arm around his back to hold him as her face nestled against the side of his head. She can hear his sobs, and feel the boy's sadness as palpably as her own, and she simply lets him cry. ]
Don't... apologise at all, silly boy... I've always... told you to not hide... haven't I? You're not alone. You're not.
[ She places a kiss to his temple, though quietly sobbing herself, she doesn't let her tears flow. ]
You're so strong, so brave, my dearest Alphinaud. But you don't have to be all the time. I'm certainly not.
[ It takes a lot for her to admit that, and she squeezes him tight. ]
So be scared, and be sad. I'll catch your tears. And we'll sort our fears together.
[ Words she feels she's heard somewhere too... and she holds him protectively as she lets him cry. Whatever she has to do to bring hope back to him, she will. He's too dear to her to not. ]
I love you so much, you know that, aye? I need you just as much. Forgive me for being so selfish.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-29 03:44 am (UTC)Megumi... I love you too. So much. Estinien warned me about this place and... the more I think about it, the more I know I'm afraid of something happening to you again - something I can't fix.
[He smiles warmly, though his eyes still shine a bit with tears. One or two even break free as he tries to calm himself. He didn't want them to keep hurting over this. It was done with, wasn't it? They had made it home safely.]
If I am brave, it is only because I follow your example, my dearest friend. I know every word I wrote to Mother about you is true. You're the bravest - and occasionally most foolish - one among us. You've shouldered the star for so long... I'm glad we're friends, because I could never let you shoulder the weight alone either.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-29 04:09 am (UTC)And she's seen how much they've endured- how strong they've been through the worst. Alphinaud, especially, with everything he's gone through, the blows he's taken to his heart over time. Learning and growing from them and no matter how much she wishes she could shield him-
She runs her thumbs over his warm cheeks, wiping his tears gently and she gives him a weak chuckle at his words. He's not wrong- but she wouldn't have gotten so much done without being too careful. ]
I don't shoulder it alone at all. Not with all of you- you beautiful, mad, dear friends, all of you...
[ She pushes their foreheads together, closing her eyes and letting her own tears spill down her cheeks. ]
This place is like nothing we've known, and 'tis frightening... but there may be some things we may only have here that we may not back home. And I would not waste the chance to have them. So don't dread what hasn't happened...
[ She wipes his cheeks, before turning to pull out a handkerchief from her belt pouch, and wipes his cheeks for him- before she holds it to his nose- an almost playful gesture and gives him a smile. ]
... but I am glad you let it out. Don't you know I can tell when you're hiding things by now? Your ears blush, you know.
[ Just for some levity, so he can fluster over something else true or not, instead, as she lets him compose himself. ]