#g'raha out here like “?????? did. did i somehow miss something” | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

nearlyjaye · 1 year

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through the dark

Sidurgu/WoL/G'raha | 1.3k | Mature

Sidurgu and G'raha reminisce on their relationship with the Warrior of Light.

CW for NSFW text and references to sexual content.

“Are you sure you’re doing alright, my love?”

He asks it with the utmost gentleness, sliding his head down on the pillow so he’s closer to Zala’s level. She hums sleepily into the mattress from her position on her belly, only turning her head when G’raha carefully nudges her cheek to catch her attention again. Though he’s already checked in while he took the warm, damp cloth between her legs and brought her a glass of water, he needs to hear her say it one more time.

“Mmhmm, Raha. I’m more than alright—there’s no need to fret about me.”

A smile breaks across his face at her words and the way her bangs cascade into her fluttering lashes. He brushes them away and sighs in small relief, biting back the urge to praise her again for how well she did tonight—his cock is already exhausted inside the shorts he pulled on, but even if it wasn’t, he doesn’t want to risk disturbing Zala’s much-needed doze beside him.

Instead, he merely cards his fingers through her tangled curls to settle on her bare shoulders, mapping the distance between old and new scars alike as he listens to her breaths even out. His heart is so full with her that it takes him a moment to register the door to their bedroom sliding open and the tall figure entering.

“Ahem—” Sidurgu’s voice clears lowly, eyes tearing away when they land on the bed in front of him. He’s cleaned and re-dressed himself in an undershirt and shorts, scratching at his neck while he gestures towards the direction of the living room outside. “...I’ll just be out here, if you still don’t mind.”

But G’raha frowns as Sidurgu turns to go retire to the couch they’d offered him to crash on before things had, well… Escalated.

“We don’t mind, but—” he whispers loudly, catching Sidurgu in the doorframe. “Y-you could also sleep here, if you’d like. With us. That sofa will not be kind to your spine, and our bed is large enough for three, anyways.”

He’s not sure what compels him to say it—Zala’s nearly completely asleep, and he’s only met this old friend of hers a few bells ago. Perhaps it’s the lingering taste of Sidurgu’s tongue on his lips, or the imprints of his nails on Zala’s waist, but somehow it just feels wrong to send him away for the remainder of the night.

Sidurgu hesitates, shifting awkwardly. “If it would not be intruding…”

“Oh, not at all!” G’raha encourages, reaching over Zala’s form to pull back the edge of their quilt. “Please. And I know for certain she’d say the same as well.”

The bed creaks after Sidurgu treads over to recline on the very edge, one leg attached to the floor as if he’s still contemplating fleeing. He glances over at the both of them from the corner of his eye, and G’raha gives him a reassuring smile. The air is different now that the intense fog of desire has settled and Zala is no longer facilitating conversation between them like she had at their impromptu meeting in Gridania, but something about the man’s steady gaze keeps him at ease.

Still, he’s surprised when Sidurgu’s the first to speak. “...She’s already asleep,” he notes as G’raha continues stroking her hair and shoulder blades.

It brings a wash of bittersweetness over him, memories of night after night of waking up to Zala reading or pacing or fiddling with her sword in an attempt to tire herself out. She’d had trouble sleeping since Silvertear—when he’d force himself to stay awake so she wouldn’t have to feel alone, pinching himself to keep his eyes open and keep researching with her. Moments he’d soon wish he’d tried harder at, wondering what tiny details he hadn’t been able to etch into his mind to pull out on the darkest, loneliest of nights.

But every aching second of missing her was worth the gift of soothing away her worries now, trailing his fingers down the curve of her back like he knows she loves so much. “I suppose much has changed since you two last spent time with one another,” he muses, a twinge of guilt forming in his chest at the way Sidurgu slowly nods. G’raha knows a summable portion of her pain and sleepless nights back then stemmed from his own actions, and though time and forgiveness has healed them both, he doesn’t think the reminder will ever not sting.

“I thought myself to be… different, especially over the last few years,” Sidurgu murmurs, “But…”

He rolls to his side, guardedness slightly slipping as he rests his head on a palm. “I’ve never seen her like this.”

It makes G’raha chuckle, cheeks feeling warm. “That is… in a positive way, I hope?”

Sidurgu’s lips quirk. “I’d say so. You have something very special with her.”

G’raha’s blush flares, and he ducks his head sheepishly at the implication. Even after all they’ve been through, the acknowledgement that what they have is real, that they’re together… it still feels like a dream.

But he doesn’t miss the cloud that deepens seafoam eyes, the lower lip swollen and marked by multiple pairs of teeth curling into an expression G’raha can only place as wistful. Mayhap he’d feel a hint of jealousy if they were in any other scenario—but after witnessing the regard and trust Zala and Sidurgu hold with one another, watching the tension melt from their bodies as they whispered into horn and ear…

He can’t help but slowly slide his hand across the bed until it meets Sidurgu’s. Feeling the callouses, the scars, the worn skin of his knuckles, quelling a thumb over his scales until the larger hand relaxes into his. It’s only then that he guides them both to Zala’s back, hovering for a long beat before tenderly resting them on her. She sighs contently in her sleep, letting out a quiet purr as two hands splay across her, covering her, shielding her. As they’ve always wanted to do, even when they were apart.

“Thank you, Sidurgu. For taking care of her when I could not.”

There’s a wave of unexpected emotion that forms a lump in his throat at the words, and he has to cut himself off before it overtakes him. He could go on all night about how much it means to him that he’d watched over her, made sure she wasn’t alone, comforted her in whatever way she needed. But for now, all he can do is smile as Sidurgu’s hand engulfs his, squeezing in recognition as his longer legs finally rise to the bed to tuck himself in next to them.

An incantation ghosts over G’raha’s lips as he dims the lights of the room, and oh, how the meaning of darkness has changed for each of them over the years. It’s something he now holds close to his heart, the same as every new memory he gets to make. With her. With the people he read and re-read about until the pages were worn and his fingers were trembling, never daring to believe he could mean something to them.

But G’raha’s growing drowsy as well, snuggling closer to his moon, his Zala, draping his tail over her for more coverage as he buries his face into her scent. The fluttering affection swells between his ribs as he feels Sidurgu shift to mirror him, fully sinking into her other side and holding onto him and Zala both.

He’ll find a way to properly thank Sidurgu later. For now, he’s content to merely soak in the shared intimacy of the dark.

#Sidurgu/WoL/G'raha #I don't know how to tag here yet i'm sorry #jaye drabbles #soft sidurgu orl #post-EW #this will probably turn into a full-length fic because i have no control when it comes to these three

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potassium-pilot · 8 months

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FFXIVWrite 2023 Prompt 5: Barbarous

(cw: gore)

On occasion, Lyna would climb the Crystal Tower to inspect the Ocular. Especially as one Warrior of Light liked to return things that the former Exarch and the wayward Scions of the Seventh Dawn may have forgotten and want back, Lyna made it a point to ensure there was nothing that remained to return to the Source. Today, she asked a soldier named Loi-Rost if he could locate a specific tome that G'raha wanted returned to him as he could not find it in his current residence. Upon entering the study, he searched about the place looking for the missing book. His search was apparently the last straw for a shelf that had one foot into its grave as a screw gave in and dropped every book on top. The soldier managed to avoid collision with all except one book that dropped on his head when he least expected it.

He picked up the book and read the title.

The Angel of the Seventh Hell by Quintus van Cinna.

"Hm. Interesting title. Was this it?" the soldier asked.

He opened the tome and read through the introduction.

"Were I the one who attempted to coin the name, I would have chosen something less reminiscent of the savage gods of Eorzea, but considering who wrought this creature upon us, I daresay nothing could fit better. She rained down fire and blew winds of destruction. Covered head to toe in a blue shield made of aether, extending aetheric wings from her shoulders, and uttering only vile screeches to her enemies, there's not a unit left that has not heard her coming in a storm of desolation. Our soldiers lamented in salvation for moons on end. She thirsts only for blood, seeks only pain, and leaves naught in her wake. None know of her origins. But I do. I, Quintus van Cinna, Legatus of the former Ist Legion, hereby chronicle this testimony of who the Angel of the Seventh Hell is and why she inflicted such torment upon Garlemald's finest.

"Hm...I don't think this was it", remarked Loi-Rost.

Regardless of whether he wanted to hear this tale or not, his newly gained Echo forced him into a vision. His head throbbed and he knelt to the ground.

---------

Loi-Rost did not recognize this land. Black clouds hanged over the sky, wreckage of strange ships were strewn about, fire raged throughout it, a strange blue liquid puddled throughout. Not a trace of green could be found here. He found an older man with a big beard and a strange stone on his forehead overseeing the battlefield as a war raged on. He could feel Quintus' emotions, and read that the war has raged on for a long time and fortune favored his enemies, but he also seemed to know that soon the tides would turn somehow. He was also tired. Very, very tired.

He had finished off a kill when he looked over to a soldier that Quintus seemed to regard highly as he fought off an Elf man with wavy black hair, blue armor with gold adornments, and a large azure sword. Behind him was a Hume woman with short blonde hair, silver armor, and the same stone in her head, fighting with a more standard sword against another with the forehead gemstone, yet another that Quintus seemed to recognize.

Who was the enemy, Loi-Rost thought.

They fought on, Quintus overseeing before he would step in. He turned his head to the left and noticed someone he recognized well running into the scene, and knew better than to engage her unless it was absolutely necessary. The soldiers, however, seemed to recognize them as one screamed, "The Warrior of Light!"

Loi-Rost knew who she was- the Warrior of Darkness. He proudly fought alongside Dia before. She restored the night to Norvrandt. She was a hero.

Quintus seemed to believe otherwise. He turned his head back to the soldiers fighting off their targets. He saw hands move towards pouches and pull out strange devices of some sort.

Quintus called it, "Black Rose."

The soldiers threw these devices at their targets and they became enshrouded by a black cloud of sorts.

Loi-Rost watched the light leave the eyes of both of them. The Elf man crumpled to his knees and fell over to his side, limp as a rag-doll. The Hume woman fell straight backwards. Quintus recognized this man as an important target- the Lord Commander of the Ishgardian Temple Knights. According to him, that was the first of any command to fall. Black Rose seemed to work perfectly.

For the efforts of those soldiers, they each earned a spell to the chest to knock them out. Dia ran to the Elf man and held him in her arms. She called out to her fairy companion, Eos. As her futile attempts at healing ultimately failed her, she called upon something even more powerful. A bigger fairy with larger feathered wings that she called Seraph appeared in Eos' place.

He laid still, not an ilm moving, not a breath taken, beyond the touch of any helping hand.

That soldier she knocked out before tried to creep up and gain an advantage on her, but he didn't stand a chance.

Seraph placed a hand against Dia's heart and phased into her. Even Loi-Rost could see the effect this made on her- her veins were glowing blue with aether, she was trembling, her skin and hair were lightening.

When the soldier lifted his sword to end her, he and his cohort were blasted away by a force of aether as giant wings extended rapidly from her shoulder blades. The soldiers stared up at her in horror as she reached for the azure blade by the Elf man's corpse, gripped it by the hilt, and made a supernatural leap towards his killer.

She stabbed him through the heart at first, and found no peace with simply that. She sliced through him, mutilating him as bone cracked and muscle flew in different directions. As she annihilated him, a blue protective aetheric shield slowly crept over her body, forming a new armor that fit directly to her skin. All that remained of the soldier when she was finished with him was mangled flesh and bone. The killer of the blonde Hume woman was next as she made one more leap and gave her murderer much the same treatment.

Quintus didn't seem to feel much of anything at this point. He reached for his gun holster and fired at her head. When they bounced off of her head, no matter how many bullets he shot, he quickly recognized that firepower would do no good. Soldiers attempted to restrain her and kill her once and for all, but for all the numbers they had, she had fire. There was not a soldier left that was not incinerated by her as she unleashed a massive flood of fire on all fronts in a great sphere around her. Slowly, her magic levitated her off of the ground and the sphere of fire became an all-encompassing presence, her angelic shields protecting her from burning with it.

He gave the order. "Retreat!" The unit fell back before they too would succumb to flame. As Quintus retreated, he watched his back to see what the creature would do. The fire grew bigger and bigger, making his decision quickly become the wiser to maintain. Manpower was sparse in such times after all.

Once he was far enough away, he watched as this supposed angel descended unto the unholy ground beneath her feet. She dropped to her knees, faced towards the Elf man, and dropped her head into his chest. With that, a horrid screech like a thousand voidsent echoed through the battlefield, its force rattling even the heavy machina that laid about the place. She could have moved mountains if she wished with that.

The memory cut to writing in a notebook.

We had slowly picked off each of these "Scions", and even managed to take down a powerful ally of theirs, the former Azure Dragoon. None remained to aid her in battle, and she relied solely on her wits and prowess in battle. Our researchers knew enough about aether manipulation to know that one normally cannot draw on their life force for very long. The Angel of the Seventh Hell, however, was not a normal woman. She remained in this inhuman state for nigh on a moon. Just as I watched her rise, however, I watched her fall. She destroyed most of the forces of the Ist legion, but I had an idea to remove her from the battlefield. There was one last place that was an important beacon for the traitor Garlond's research- the Crystal Tower of Mor Dhona. If we attacked that, it would most certainly gain the attentions of the once-Warrior of Light. The last of my legion gathered outside the gates that were opened by the Sons of Saint Coinach not long ago. We had every intention of destroying it to gain her attentions, and such it did, for who appeared but the Angel herself, swooping in to destroy our hard work. They tried and failed to take her down with their own weapons, but their efforts managed to bring her close enough that the explosives could be detonated on top of her. Not even the all-powerful Angel of the Seventh Hell could withstand the might of Garlean technology. Her shields had broken and her fire had dimmed. The Warrior of Light had finally returned, and my legion extinguished her flames forevermore. With that victory, however, was a terrible price paid. Most of my men were killed by the explosion. I gave up my legion that my country would live on, free of the terror this savage wrought. What a pathetic creature, really; a horror driven purely by sentiment. How many of my countrymen feared her, when in truth, hers was a campaign of weakness. She fought for no country, no city-state, her loyalty extending only towards friends and loved ones. There is no glory in her victories- only hollow ideals that she soon ground into a fine powder beneath her feet. To the best of my ability have I written my full account. Once the shelters are safe for the emperor to leave, I intend to deliver this account to him.

Quintus placed down his quill and looked to the mirror on the side of his desk. His face was sunken and pale, his hair thin and mostly gone and his chin trembling. The man hadn't had a meal in a long time. Loi-Rost could feel the gnawing hunger in his stomach. To him, however, starvation would be better than allowing Garlemald to fall.

--------

Loi-Rost returned from the Echo vision. His ears fell flat against his head, his tail grew bushy, and he shivered in fear at the idea of what Dia became. He stared down at the book, wide-eyed. What should I do, he thought, other than burn it?

"Oh, hello there!"

He yelped and jolted upward before he snapped his attentions at the source of the greeting.

"Sorry! Didn't mean to startle you", Dia apologized before putting on a reassuring smile. "If you're not supposed to be in here, don't worry. Neither am I."

Loi-Rost gave a nervous laugh.

"Anyways, I think you might be holding what I'm looking for. Can I see it?"

The Mystel handed the book to the Elezen and she looked to the cover.

"Yup! This is the one. G'raha wanted to talk with me about this, so he asked me to grab it for him. I haven't read it myself though."

"No?"

Dia shook her head and said, "Mm-mm. I haven't read a lot of what happened in the 8th Umbral Calamity, to be perfectly honest. I read one thing, though."

"Wh-what was that?"

Her face became more solemn. "There's a version of my journal that has my end of the events of the Calamity. G'raha let me take it at first, but after reading through it...it's better off staying in here. The whole of it."

"Y-you think so?"

Dia nodded. "It's hundreds of years old, so not all of it survived, but from what I read...that was a different woman. A very different woman. She should be at rest here. She deserves that much, at least."

Loi-Rost blinked.

"Ah, don't mean to bore you with everything. Thanks for finding it!" Dia waved and added, "Take care!" She then walked to the portal and returned to her world.

The Mystel left the Ocular to climb back downstairs and report what happened to Captain Lyna. He kept shaking as he climbed. The vision seared an important lesson into him; do not cross the Warrior of Darkness.

#ffxiv #ffxivwrite #ffxivwrite2023 #quintus van cinna #f elezen wol #aymeric de borel #lucia goe junius #sometimes a girl just needs to turn her character into a final boss in a fit of madness #for fun #i also like thinking about 'what's she up to in the 8UC timeline?'#answer is this

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hopeful-hugz · 9 months

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❛ it wouldn’t be the same without you. we’d really miss you ! ❜ - Hope/G'raha

𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐁𝐈𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐒𝐖𝐀𝐍 𝐋𝐀𝐊𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐒. || Accepting

"I know, I'm gonna miss you lot too. But with the way that ascian was looking in me when he sauntered into the Chrystarium..." She hated saying this during the one time he was taking a break from making the vessels. Hope could feel his urgency, his exhaustion. She hated seeing him like this, hated knowing why he'd made that extra vessel and used himself for testing. She knew what was coming on that front and wanted to be here for it.

But the way that disguised ascian had looked at her, during that first simulated starshower. How he very clearly didn't approve of her presence here...

"G'raha, I think he knows what I am. I don't want him to somehow use that against you and the Warrior. You're all so close to going home, I-"

All she remembered next was chaos, the tower being broken into and it's invader gaining control. Her telling her friend and his faefolk ally to flee and that she'd cause a diversion and buy as much time as she could. It wasn't the farewell she wanted to give but it was how it had to be in order for the threat to be as contained as it could be.

The words said to her during her stand still rang in her head clear as day. Words she would never dare repeat; imprinted and rooted deep in her psyche. The last thing she heard before everything went black.

She didn't know how long she was out, but she had woken up in the space between words, disoriented and wing feeling bruised. Upon closer inspection, a dark purple mark was present under her feathers, not unlike a severe and deep bruise. Corruption wouldn't have hurt, just felt like static, this was something that left part of her tender to the touch, but was near unseen under all the colorful feathers.

It made her feel sick.

The aetherling can't stay focused on that, however. Shaking her head as she orients herself in the zero gravity, using her wings to get upright. She had to get back to the First. She had to make sure G'raha was still alive-

Teleportation would be too obvious, she needed to take the long way. So with a beat of her wings, she was off.

Little did she know she would find no sign of him, having to get a recap from those still in the First. Then her search led her to the place that everyone had called The Source, following any and every lead she could for everyone. Going from place to place, until she'd landed at a seaside town (city?) for academics, having to use a hood to hide her ears and elaborately colored hair for once. In this place called Sharlayan and she had a sinking feeling that if she mentioned anything, she'd be a subject for study (gotta love the lab trauma surfacing).

It was here that she learned just how much she missed and eventually was pointed in the direction of an Annex. It was a little bit of a walk, so it let her update her map. Which led to her bumping directly into someone due to not paying attention.

Looking up, she couldn't help a weird sense of deja vu.

"Ah, my apologies. I wasn't looking where I was going. Are you alright?"

#diverse-hearts #Multiversal MD || Hope #Star Callings || Asks #:)))))

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yezielmoore · 3 years

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Day 28: Bow

Me: i have a scene! Also me: meanders through paths unknown before reaching the scene. Also also me: wait. that's a different scene. Just writer's things, i guess, lol.

This is set during the Crystal Tower questline, no spoilers.

~.~.~

n. A weapon consisting of a curved, flexible strip of material, especially wood, strung taut from end to end and used to launch arrows.

Another day, another adventure.

Or, well, the same adventure, if he wanted to be pedantic about it.

Kaito bade Chompy to a slow trot as he arrived at Saint Coinach’s Find, looking around for the imposing rogaedin in charge of the place. Once he spotted Rammbroes stationed in his usual spot, he waved and turned his chocobo in that direction.

"Good morning, Kaito," the man greeted solemnly, as was his wont.

Kaito nodded and inquired. "How's everything around here?"

"Quiet, thankfully. G'raha has finally resigned himself to waiting for you and yours to push the vanguard, something for which I'm infinitely grateful," he shook his head in apparent disapproval but his eyes betrayed the fondness he felt for the eccentric Alagan scholar.

Kaito smiled but still felt the need to defend his friend.

"It is his life's passion, you know."

"Aye," Rambroes agreed, more than well aware of that fact, "and I'd like that he lived long enough to get sick of it, should that day ever dawn."

At that Kaito could do nothing but nod in agreement. Much as he regretted G'raha's disappointment he much preferred that his often distracted friend stayed well behind the line of fire. It's not like the tower was going anywhere.

And speaking of friend… He looked around but didn't spot that distinctive red hair anywhere.

"He's down by the lake," Rambroes informed him and handed him a wrapped parcel. "Lunch," he clarified at his inquisitive look.

Ah. Of course G'raha would forgo food in favor of sulking. He thanked the man and directed Chompy towards a little hidden outcrop G'raha had shown him. He had a feeling that's where he would find the absent miqo'te and, lo and behold, there he was, sitting crossed legged a hair's breadth (or a slight push) away from taking a tumble into the water. Kaito shook his head fondly.

For a prankster that was a terrible mistake to make and, were G'raha in a better mood, he would not hesitate. Today, though, it just felt mean.

"Good morning to you too," Kaito said, noting the way the miqo'te's ears had perked up long before he would have heard a thing.

G'raha sighed with gravitas, like he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.

"It's midday," G'raha pointed out petulantly.

"So?"

"Incorregible,” he grumbled without real heat, just venting his frustrations. “And Rambroes trusts you more than me to go to the tower."

Was he…? Yes, yes he was. He was pouting like a kid who didn't get a cookie before dinner. Kaito laughed and sat down next to the redhead, noting with interest that he had been in the process of stringing his bow.

"He trusts in my strength of arm, not my willingness to be up at the ass crack of dawn," he deadpanned. He poked at G’raha who startled and gave him the stink eye. “You any good with that bow.”

“Am I any good, he asks! Ha! I would be even more of a shame to my tribe if I wasn't at least passable with the bow! And you? Have you ever tried it, oh mighty warrior?”

Whatever G’raha had expected as a reaction to his teasing it hadn’t been a furrowed brow and a puzzled look.

“I… don't… I-” Kaito stuttered, trying to catch the fleeting feeling of familiarity that, as always, moved right out of his metaphorical fingers. “I-I know a little… I-I think… I’m not- not… I… I d-don’t…”

“Hey! Hey Kaito, breathe! Breathe with me!”

Somehow, G’raha’s voice seemed to penetrate the haze of light and screeching sound that was crushing his thoughts into a disorderly mess, so Kaito did as was bid. He breathed. He latched onto G’raha and just breathed for the next while, until his head stopped swimming. He opened his eyes to G’raha worried face barely an inch away from his own.

“How are you?”

Kaito took stock of himself. He was strangely tired right now, but otherwise he felt fine.

“I’m… I’m fine,” he assured. “Just a bit tired is all. What were we talking about?”

A strange expression crossed G’raha’s face, too fast for him to decipher. Not fast enough for him to miss the way G'raha’s La Noscean orange flavor went sour at that. Well, sourer. So something had happened, but for the life of him he couldn’t think of what.

“We were discussing the expedition,” the redhead said smoothly, “but you seemed to be feeling a bit under the weather and had a dizzy spell. Maybe we should take a break, even though you seem to have recovered now, my friend.”

It… resonated strangely with him, that reason, but nothing else came to mind and it made sense, as much as his foggy recollection of the past minutes made any sense.

He shook his head again to clear it and his eyes landed on the lunchbox Rammbroes had given him for G’raha.

“Well, in that case maybe we should have lunch,” he said, dangling the offering in front of the miqo’te. “What do you say?”

Finally, like the sun coming from behind the clouds, Raha smiled.

“I’d love to.”

#ffxivwrite2021 #ffxivwrite #ffxiv #kaito seaborn #g'raha tia #yeziel writes #my writing

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neko-shinigxmi · 4 years

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'Don't allow the world to take your kindness' for your ship with the Cat Man, G'raha. ❤️

“You seem stressed,” he purrs, causing the very healer he was talking to jolting forward in shock, tail bristling in alarm. G’raha laughed at the response, at the blown wide pupils of the Keeper he had startled.

“G’raha!” Rhela scolded, tail flicking behind them. “Don’t scare me like that!!”

“Why not~? It’s fun to scare you.” And you’re cute when you’re scared, he thinks, though decidedly keeps the thought to himself. It’s one thing to pester the person he’s growing to admire, but it’s another thing entirely to try and flirt with them.

...At least for now. There’s far more pressing matters at hand than attempting to woo their healer-warrior.

“And impolite,” they shoot back, their tail hitting his calf in agitation, hands going up to soothe their hair...or maybe just brush it down? Did they not bring a brush with them? One would think they would’ve... “What do you want, G’raha?”

“Nothing really. Just to see how you’re doing.” He stepped closer, about to sit next to them, and... “May I join you?”

A sigh. “Go ahead...” It was a defeated tone that Rhela gave him, but G’raha was more than happy with the result, taking his seat nearby- but not entirely next to- the other Miqo’te with a content sigh.

“...Anyways, you didn’t answer my question. How’re you doing? I heard the last fight was pretty tough...” Rhela went quiet, seeming to think over his words. Their hands slow down on their hair, messing with the edges of a braid thoughtfully. Perhaps it might’ve been....odd, to stare at someone so intently, but G’raha couldn’t help but take in and enjoy the view.

“Okay, I think. It’s...tough. And I think...without the connections I have, things would be infinitely tougher.” It’s more musing than anything, but it’s enough to give G’raha some idea of what’s going on in their head. Missing, however, on thoughts unsaid...like a certain, small, adventuring party who’s healer went off the rails.

“You do amazingly with what you’ve got,” he assures with a nod, a small smile on his face. “We’ll be here to support you, so... Don’t stress about it.”

“I guess...?” Rhela huffed a laugh, hands dropping in favor of sitting forward and resting their elbows on their legs. “I... I’m very much frail, I think. Just enough strength to help people, to inspire them. I don’t know...how equipped I am to save them. To help anyone. I...” They hung their head, frowning deeply as their hands moved up, fingers slipping into their hair. It...brought a bit of pain to his heart, honestly.

Rhela- in the short few months he’d known them- was just the kind of hero he dreamed about, if more magical than the warrior-type he wished to be in his fantasies. Someone kind and soothing, while also a force to be reckoned with when it came to the fighting, balancing the healing forces of nature they had honed in their time in Gridania while equally throwing out damage when needed. A crucial force in any fight, for sure.

They were admirable and quickly won over G’raha without much effort; a combination of said friendly personality, their fighting spirit, and determination to see things through. All traits that caught his eye, made him want to emulate them, and.....perhaps even find himself budding up a crush, despite everything.

Yes, yes, the Crystal Tower was very important, stopping it was very important, but... He could have a crush, couldn’t he? Natural as that sort of thing is... Agh, anyways! Far more importantly, for the moment--

“Hey, now. You’re doing your best, Rhela...” A breath in, mostly in preparation for saying something pretty cheesy. “Don’t allow the world to take your kindness. You do so much good in this world. Keep fighting for it. I... No, everyone who has ever met you will support you in those efforts.

“I’ve seen it firsthand,” he says, laughing softly. “You’ve inspired plenty here, already.” For a moment, he considers....touching them somehow. A hand on the shoulder? Would taking their hand be too forward? Though when they turn to look at him, a sad look still in their eyes- doubting him, if only a little- he instead gave them a bright smile.

“Rhela....you’ll be okay.” Combined with his words and smile, it seemed to throw them off a bit. Noting their own eyes going wide, pouting frown disappearing as their lips parted slightly. It took them a moment, features softening...before that smile came back, brilliant and heartachingly kind, all at once. G’raha feeling his heart stutter behind his ribs in wake of it, quietly wishing he had the bravery of taking their hand earlier.

How soft and gentle would they have been...?

“Thank you, G’raha. That...is incredibly kind of you.” A pause, their dark green eyes seeming to take him in a moment, before turning their head to the sky above, missing the flush that heated his cheeks. “...I promise you, then. That I’ll always keep doing my best. So keep supporting me, okay?”

“...Always,” he responded, breathlessly.

#robotarmjokes #Aki answers #otp; seek her to keep her #Aki Stories #THANK U SM FOR THE INSPO AAAAA #writing this was HEALING FOR THE SOUL #and I'm glad to finally have some content I've made #for Raha ;; w ;;#so again thank u sm for the ask!!!!!

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shardweavers · 4 years

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Chapter Four - Pray Return to the First

"I implore you: allow me to join you beyond the rift!"

"G'raha," came the response; hesitant and caring, "It's very dangerous. We can't promise you'll be safe. Why would you risk such a journey with us?"

"I have something I wish to find. An answer," he trailed off as he reached up to his right eye; its ruby color perfectly matched his hair. "Truthfully... the more I learn of the Crystal Tower, the less I am myself. I feel consumed with remembering... something. Something ancient, but ever so important. A-And I know... somehow... my answers will be in there; with Unei and Doga."

"We'll certainly rescue them, along with Nero."

"I know you will," the Sharlayan Miqo'te smiled, then flicked his tail. "I've only known you all a short time, but you've inspired a great change in me. I've seen it in others too," he fidgeted slightly, then crossed his arms over his chest. "I just want to finish what's been started. I must learn the truth that history hides from me. I would see this journey--our journey--through to the very end with mine own two eyes. I shan't cause you any worry in the World of Darkness."

"We'll protect you, G'raha," the response was warm, and caring, "We'll make sure you find whatever it is that you need to find, and make it home with us."

He smiled at their words, then wiggled his ears and flicked his tail as he put a hand on his hip triumphantly; as confident and prideful as he was, their words always managed to stir something within him. He believed everything they said to him, and knew he could entrust them with just about anything.

THUD!

The Crystal Exarch jumped, his ears perked straight up and his tail fluffed beneath his robes. His ruby eyes opened wide, then looked around for the source of the sudden noise.

"Ah! My Lord, I'm terribly sorry," Lyna jumped, her long ears twitched slightly as she quickly saluted.

"L-Lyna, what are," the Exarch trailed off, then shook his head. He saw the pile of books that had fallen over from his desk; the Viis must have bumped them when she leaned over to check on him.

"I came to check on you, and saw you were asleep at your desk. It's nearly mid-day," she explained, but got no further. The Exarch stood up swiftly at her last words, then spoke quickly.

"Mid-day?! I slept too long, I still have preparations to make," the Miqo'te turned to grab his staff from its resting place against the wall. "Lyna, notify the Master of Suites that our Warriors of Darkness will be staying with us again," he put his staff on his back, then paused. "Where is Beq Lugg? They were reading with me when I fell asleep," his expression was slightly embarrassed, but he looked to the Viis Captain expectantly.

She had saluted at his order, then paused to think, "I didn't see them when I came in, perhaps they went to market for something?" She tilted her head slightly. He looked thoughtful at her suggestion. After a moment of silence, she spoke up once more, "My Lord, is there aught else?"

"Do you think they would prefer sandwiches or pastries with tea this afternoon...?" The Exarch stared off to the side, at the few tomes still on his desk. Lyna blinked, then chuckled. He blushed slightly, then stepped around the desk, "Forgive me, Lyna, I'd like to ask you to pick up the tomes a bit. I must gather what I can for our meeting once they've arrived," he smiled at the Viis.

She nodded to his request, then smiled back, "Go, My Lord, make ready for their arrival. I will pick up the books I knocked over, then relay your message to the Manager."

"Ah, thank you, Lyna," his ears perked straight up, then he turned to hurry off to the Markets. She was left alone quickly, and sighed towards the door.

"You don't hide your excitement very well," she smiled as she knelt down to pick up the books, "I've been rather happy seeing you like this, though." She placed some of the books on the desk, then reached for the last few. One was open beside the desk. It looked to be fresh ink on the page, as some of it had been smudged in the fall to the floor. The Viis recognized the Exarch's handwriting, and realized that she could read the strange script it was written in. He'd taught her how to read through his books; most of which were written in various scripts; this looked like what he had called 'Eorzean', the most common script in his books. Lyna picked up the book carefully, then began to read before she had a thought that perhaps she shouldn't.

Observer's Log

The Scions of the Seventh Dawn remain trapped here on the First. Despite my best efforts, I have hit another wall. The Warriors have once more returned to the Source. Beq Lugg and I have been scouring through Allagan history and research in the Tower Library. There have been some promising discoveries.

I would be lying if I said I wasn't enjoying this just a little, despite the reason for it. It has been quite a long time since I have done this sort of research. Not since I was granted the title of Archon have I felt so involved in my work. I can recall the first days I had access to the forbidden tomes. I got lost reading as much as I could. I wonder if I feared losing access as I spent days alone in there, and had to be dragged back to my room. When I awoke, I was quite harshly scolded by Krile.

Enough of the past. What Beq Lugg and I have come to agree upon is that my Allagan heritage may be the key to returning the Scions home safely. We believe if we can successfully infuse the white auracite vessels with my blood, it may allow the safe transference of soul and mind back to their bodies on the Source.

I am happy we prevented the 8th Umbral Calamity that claimed the lives of the Warriors of Light, and necessitated my awakening to undo... but I would also be lying if I said I did not wish to go with them at all. Ever since I once more laid my eyes upon them, my heart has ached to pass through the portal beside them whenever they leave.

Perhaps, when the time comes, I might infuse a 6th vessel. I worry, though, is it okay for me to feel this selfish...? It's almost as if my very soul aches to return home, in a way I have never felt before. I must think on this, for the only way to do so would be to entrust everything to the Warriors my friends once again.

There was an ink smudge at the bottom, perhaps from where he'd fallen asleep while writing. Lyna felt sad as she realized what this said. She flipped only a single page back to find his notes on seeking out Beq Lugg in the Grand Cosmos, and how he was "nervous, but excited to join them in their adventures again, even for a brief time". He never spoke of his own thoughts and desires, but he had been writing them down. She carefully put this book back on the desk, then saluted the empty chair.

"Perhaps it may be best if I pull back from you, My Lord. This means enough to you to be selfish for even a moment." She smiled sadly, then turned away from the desk, "Though I would miss you terribly if you were to leave. It... is not my place... to ask you to stay."

* * * 'Ah, Beq Lugg was right, I may have been overdoing it lately.' It had been days since he last left the Tower, and he felt it in his back as he paused on the stairs from the Quadrivium. He composed himself, and looked over to the nearby stalls thoughtfully. It gave him a moment's rest, but he realized he still hadn't decided which sort of treat to serve with tea. He enjoyed sweets, as did his friends, but perhaps a sandwich with tea would be a nice lunch.

"My Lord?"

"Ah! Yes, Bragi?" He turned to the Ronso that stood beside him. He'd been slightly startled by the sudden voice, but usually managed to keep himself fairly well-composed outside of the Tower.

Bragi gestured welcomingly, "You seemed lost in thought this afternoon. Is there aught I might assist with?" The Exarch looked a bit more thoughtful at that. The Ronso tilted his head a little.

"Actually, perhaps you could," he flicked his ears slightly, then explained, "Our Warriors of Darkness will be returning this afternoon. I was of a mind to discuss things over tea when they did, but I have been stuck on sweets or sandwiches as the proper accompaniment." He put his crystal hand to his chin; his expression gave a weight to such a trivial decision that Bragi felt unsure how to immediately respond. He did, however, come up with a suggestion, as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Perhaps a basket of various baked goods might be a good compromise...?"

"A basket," the Miqo'te trailed off, then looked up at the Ronso. His gaze drifted off to the side, to Hanji-Fae's bakery stall. His expression lightened, and he gave Bragi a thankful smile. "Ah! Of course! Thank you, Bragi." He fidgeted slightly, "Perhaps it was a bit silly of me to get stuck on such a decision."

"Nonsense, My Lord," the Ronso interrupted, "We, all of us, are grateful to them for the return of the night sky." He looked up to the blue crystal canopy, the clear blue sky was visible around the edges of it, but most of the city was protected from weather. "Even now, many of us worry over what we can offer them while they are here, and if it will be good enough." Bragi smiled reassuringly to the worried Exarch, "We were also extremely grateful to see you return safely with them."

A pang of guilt tightened his chest, "I was... grateful to return... with them."

"I admit, I hadn't expected a Mystel under that hood," Bragi took a breath to continue, but was interrupted by an Elven female's voice.

"Aha~! I've finally found you!"

The Exarch stiffened slightly, his ears stood up straight at the sudden voice from behind. He turned quickly, and barely suppressed a wince at the sudden movement.

"Katliss, why were you looking for me...?"

"Have you an answer for me yet, Lord?"

"Pray forgive me," the Exarch smiled apologetically, "I have been quite busy lately." Katliss sighed with a half smile, then shook her head.

"The Artisans of the Mean have completed some designs for the commemoration of the night sky's return, but you haven't given us an answer." The Elf smirked, then put a hand out to the side as if holding something, "Would you prefer to be on coin," she put her other hand out to the other side, "or an automaton?"

The Exarch sighed, then frowned a little, "It would hardly be fair to take that sort of credit for such a feat. I sincerely appreciate your intentions, but I would prefer neither option." He smiled reassuringly, "Perhaps you should prepare to help the Warriors of Darkness this evening. They shall be returning anon, and I really must gather something for them to eat when they arrive."

"They're coming back so soon? Of course we'll prepare anything they should require," Katliss smiled, despite being sad at the repeated rejection from the Exarch. "That's only the third time you've said no, though. I'm certain one of the designs will change your mind, My Lord." She gave a small wave, then hurried off to head back to the Crystalline Mean.

Bragi nodded after she left, "I'll spread the word through the Markets for you as well. Let them know if they need anything at all, they can browse and stock up here whenever they are able," he crossed his arms, "After all, it seems like you'll be speaking with them for a while if you're buying food for their return."

"A-Ah," the red-eyed Miqo'te nodded, then gave as reassuring a smile as he could after Katliss' fluster. He hurried off towards the Culinarian's shop, his back feeling slightly better than when he left. "My desk is not the most comfortable place for a nap... which just means I need to finish my research that much faster." He mumbled to himself, then smiled as he stopped in front of the counter. He decided on half and half, as per Bragi's suggestion, and added a box of tea he could brew back at the Tower. He had just the kettle for the perfect brew, one which he often used.

* * * Ice was the first to arrive through the portal in the Ocular; immediately behind him was his husband, Angel. The Warrior looked around at the empty room, noting how brilliantly the crystal walls shone. He smiled, then turned to make sure his husband had made it through okay. Angel had stepped through, then immediately moved aside to clear the way. The White Mage curled his tail a bit, happy at the thought of seeing their friend G'raha again after their time away from the First. He did frown a little at the empty Ocular, then turned his ears a bit to listen for a voice or familiar sound.

"Ah, we seem to be the first to arrive, he looked around the room a little, "Do you think we're a bit too early?" The tip of his tail flicked back and forth, thoughtfully, "Or did we miss them at Mor Dhona?"

Ice looked thoughtful in response, but didn't get a chance to respond, as Shoto stepped through the portal a moment later. Angel's ears perked, and he smiled at her arrival. Yuki, then Sumire, followed immediately after her; the three of them took in the surroundings of the Ocular for a moment. The female Miqo'te's eyes fell upon the two Keepers nearby. She immediately waved with so much energy that it brought her on her the tips of her toes; a moment later, she bounded over to them in excitement.

"Angel! Ice! I'm glad to see you both!" The female Seeker jumped and threw her arms around the dark-haired Keeper's shoulders. Angel's ears briefly pinned back in surprise, but he smiled and returned Shoto's hug a moment later. Ice just shook his head, "I see how it is. No love for me." He chuckled to himself as his tail wagged playfully behind him, "I'm just glad to see you are doing well."

"I am too, Shoto," Angel added. "We've been worried about you, but you seem to be feeling a bit better now."

Yuki couldn't hold back a smirk while she shook her head at the sight of their leader bounding off in such a way. "Well, it seems like she is in bright spirits at least," she said to Sumire, who was still at her side.

The purple-haired Miqo'te grinned at the Viera in response, "What's this? You showing concern over another person's well being in front of other people?" He teased, his tail flicked slightly.

"Come now!" Yuki immediately crossed her arms defensively in a pout, "I'm not that heartless. Is it so hard to believe that I would show concern for our friend?" Sumire just smiled, then patted her gently on the arm, "I jest! Mostly. C'mon, let's join the others." The two made their way over to the group as they all awaited the Exarch's arrival to the Ocular.

They would only wait another few moments before the doors to the Ocular swung open. The Exarch returned with Lyna. She carefully guided a small cart into the room with her. The red-haired Miqo'te smiled at his friends, though he said nothing just yet. Lyna stopped in the middle of the group, then made sure the cart was settled. On the top was the basket of half and half baked goods. The scent of sweets immediately drew Angel's attention to the basket. Lyna saluted, as the Exarch raised a hand.

"Thank you for the help, Lyna, I may have overdone it a little..."

"Nonsense, My Lord, it is my pleasure to assist. Though... the wonderful smell has made me want to go pick up something as well after my shift," she smiled to the Warriors, then saluted them as well. "Welcome back. We've missed you all. Pray call on me should you need anything." The Viis turned to hurry out. The Exarch watched as she closed the doors behind her. He didn't turn around immediately.

"I most certainly did overdo it," he glanced back over his shoulder, "I got delayed several times in the course of the day. I sincerely apologize that I was not here to greet you all." His ears flicked, and his guard relaxed slightly. A smile crossed his face as he turned further to gesture to the cart, "I wanted to make sure there was something to eat when you arrived. I wasn't... sure what might be best, but I thought the cart could serve as a table while we spoke." He stood, then fidgeted slightly, his tail fluffed a bit more than usual... though, that was really only noticeable to him against his own leg. It wasn't that he didn't have a topic to discuss; after all, he had asked Feo Ul to contact them about returning; it was more that there were a few topics to discuss, and he was trying to sort out a good starting point.

Ice simply smiled at the Exarch in response. It felt like it hadn't been that long ago when they ventured to the Grand Cosmos to meet Beq Lugg. There had been nothing much for it but to leave the Nu Mou and the Miqo'te to research on the soul; ways of preserving and transporting it, along with their memories.

"It's quite alright," the Warrior spoke to break the thoughtful silence that had fallen over the room. "I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we appreciate it." The Exarch blinked; the words helped to reset his train of thought, as well as relax him a little. He smiled back, then put a finger to his chin.

"First, I believe tea and snacks are in order. Please, take what you would like," he gestured to the cart. Yuki nodded to the suggestion, then tugged at Sumire's sleeve. The Seeker stood from his seat on the steps that he had just taken, and reluctantly followed the Viera over to the cart.

The Exarch pulled cups from the shelf below, and handed her one at a time as she poured tea for whoever would like some. She handed the filled cups to Sumire so she didn't have to turn around. Shoto happily accepted one, along with a danish, then moved back to be beside Angel. The White Mage sniffed at the sweet smell of her treat, then flicked his ears thoughtfully. Ice reached up to pat his husband's head, then headed over to the cart to pick something for them both.

Though everyone anticipated the Exarch's words, Yuki spoke first, "Any updates on our friends' return?"

Shoto paused, then looked up from her tea cup to hear the response. She had recently checked in with Tataru and Krile, and learned their bodies were still stable; for the moment; but the link between their souls and bodies was beginning to grow notably weaker.

"Yes," the Exarch nodded, "Beq Lugg and I are presently studying the principles underpinning memory transference and, I believe, nearing the requisite level of understanding, thanks to the Tower Library. Urianger and Y'shtola have also given input and clarity when the words began to blur from staring bells too long at the same pages," he flicked an ear, then tilted his head a bit. "It will definitely require my Allagan heritage if this is to stand a chance of being successful. The result will be a crystal vessel imbued with my essence."

"That sounds complicated," Sumire frowned as he held a second cup of tea for Ice to take. The Exarch nodded in response.

"It has proven... frustrating, to put it mildly. Practical trials of transference methods suited for use with the vessel," he thought for a moment, then finished his sentence, "have yet to yield... satisfactory results..." He found himself forcefully handed a cup of tea from Yuki. He blinked again, then gratefully took the tea, and smiled, "Though it may take some time yet, we are well on our way to a solution," he looked down to the tea in his cup, "And I swear that I shall not rest until one is found."

* * * Elsewhere in the Crystarium, far from this happy scene, a weakened shoebill flapped its wings as it came to a rest atop a high railing on the outer walls, its chest heaving for breath… An all-too-familiar shoebill, whose avian form was but a mask.

Hades felt like he was growing weaker by the second, but, at least in this smaller, bestial form, he could still fly. Though it was exhausting. By Zodiark, he hoped he was right, that they weren't already gone somehow, returned to the Source and lost to him forever. No, no, they were a sentimental lot, they must still be hanging around...

He mustered all the strength left in his wings for a short upward flight, and this time came to rest much closer to the Crystal Tower itself... good, a perfect vantage point, one which let him see most of the Crystarium without much effort.

A pity that, unless his vision were failing him (how weak would he become, severed from his wholeness as he was?!), he could spy neither hide nor hair of them in the city's wide expanse. Cursing mentally, the bird then turned his attention towards the Tower itself, towards some method of egress... squinting, he spied one of many small air shafts higher up on the tower. And here was one he could easily get through…! Perfect.

The bird's eyes narrowed as he opened his wings once more, rising into the air, then once he was in position, angled himself for a slow dive, and drifted almost indolently downward towards and into the air shaft, emerging inside the tower proper, into the presence of the blue and gold spiral staircase that snaked its way through the entire tower.

It felt like forever since he had visited here, but still, the layout was familiar enough. He spotted another ventilation shaft as he flew over the stairs. If he remembered everything correctly, it should lead to the Ocular.

Yes. Perhaps if he spied on the Exarch, he could find the adventurers he sought.

The Shoebill flapped hard and dove into this second shaft, but fumbled on his landing near the end of it, wobbling as he came to a full rest and ruffling his feathers. He waddled slowly towards the sharp drop off that led into the Ocular. Stopping at the edge, he looked down through the beams of the chandelier, taking in the sight of several familiar figures gathered below...

They were all standing near each other, save for the red and white-haired Miqo'te in his ridiculous robes, still wearing that great, ornamented staff. The Allagan-blooded fool they called the Crystal Exarch; "G'raha Tia", the adventurers had named him...? Oh, he recalled that one well enough...his power over the Crystal Tower and his enigmatic nature had been the most vexing mystery the former Ascian had had for a time.

Now the shoebill turned his attention to the others standing around the Exarch. His eyes moved over to the two near the cart. A white haired Viera and a purple haired Miqo'te; if he recalled correctly, they went by the names Yuki and Sumire. He recognized the two male Miqo'te Keepers as well; he watched as Ice walked over to Angel with tea cups. They had all been present towards the journey to slay the Lightwardens. However, it was the one enjoying her tea beside Angel that had the most familiar presence; the one who'd bedeviled him from the beginning. The one who'd always made him feel at odds with himself, always made him question the works of his own hands.

The one who had dealt the final blow, pierced through his heart and struck him down amidst the ruins of Amaurot.

The one that had ended his... suffering.

Shoto.

She was the one whose shard was so damnably close to...

The shoebill, knowing the darkness of the ceiling and its shadows would hide him, remained silent, watching them all.

Waiting...

* * * 'What was that...?'

Before the conversation could continue, the Exarch paused, then looked to the door. He could tell someone or something had entered the Ocular, as he and Beq Lugg had made a Ward to protect their research, and the vessels, within the Umbilicus. His ruby eyes focused, then quickly scanned the room; he could find nothing amiss. He put his finger to his chin and sat his half-drank cup of tea down on the cart.

'That's odd... I was certain...'

"G'raha?" Angel's worried voice broke the silence. He had noticed the Exarch's distraction, "Is everything okay?"

The distracted Miqo'te's ear flicked at his name, spoken by his friend. He nodded as he quickly turned his attention back to the group.

"Everything's fine," he smiled to reassure them; in fact, to make a point of it being fine, he picked his cup up again, then drank a bit more. Once he placed the cup back on the saucer he gestured slightly, "In fact, I would ask a favor of you. There is still much to be done here on the First since the return of the night sky. This world still needs help to get back on track."

Ice beamed as he refilled Angel's cup; he made sure to stir in extra sugar, then took it and a glazed donut back to his husband. Angel nodded happily, as he took the refilled tea and the donut. Ice looked back to the Exarch.

"You know you can count us in!" Angel simply nodded along with a soft smile as he agreed, then nipped some of his donut.

Sumire chimed in as well, "You have my lance too, G'raha!" He smiled as he sat his empty cup down. Yuki immediately tugged his ear at his informal tone. "Er. Right, I forgot," he rubbed his ear, blushed, then looked to the Viera, apologetically. The Exarch blinked, confused; he didn't mind so much when they were alone here, but also didn't want to be too picky with what his friends could call him. Unlike the others, however, Sumire tended to forget where he was, and had confused quite a few people along the way by referring to the Exarch by his name. He had agreed to try to stay consistent with 'Exarch' so he wouldn't confuse anyone... of course, that was mainly between himself and Yuki for now.

"What he means is that you have our support as well." Yuki nodded, then crossed her arms over her chest; one hand still holding her tea cup. The Exarch brought up a hand to conceal a chuckle at the interaction between the two.

He smiled, then nodded, "I appreciate the gesture." "I see I'm the last to get a say in," Shoto folded her arms, then smiled at the Exarch, "but you know that I am also in full support wherever I'm needed."

"Despite knowing that you would help, it nevertheless heartens me to hear your reassurances," the Exarch smiled, a bit of relief crossed his face. "Thank you, my friends. Let us begin, then." He looked to each of them and took a breath to settle his thoughts. "As you are all aware, the Scions have not been idle either. Alphinaud has been helping Chai-Nuzz in Eulmore. Urianger and Y'shtola have been off doing some research of their own and sending me reports on what they've found interesting. Thancred and Ryne have mostly been helping to monitor and maintain Eden since you restored the elements to The Empty." He looked to the Miqo'te couple, "Angel, Ice, I'd like you two to travel to Amh Araeng." The two nodded in response. The Exarch continued his assignment, "First, check-in with our contact in Mord Souq to see if there are any new developments. Thancred, Ryne, and Gaia may also be around if there have been. If they aren't there, then rendezvous with Alisaie at Journey's End to see how things are progressing. Alisaie has been working with Beq Lugg to administer treatments to those affected by the Sin Eaters," he blinked and stopped, then flicked his ears back slightly as he realized what he'd just said, "Ah! That's right. They were going to check in on Alisaie's progress today. That must be where they went..."

There was a brief moment of silence before Shoto spoke, "Exarch?"

"Ah! Right," he looked over to the female Miqo'te after she drew his attention, "Shoto, I would like for you, Yuki, and Sumire to travel to Eulmore and rendezvous with Alphinaud. Once you've checked in with him, I'd like for you to head onward to the Tempest and check in with our Ondo friends regarding Emet-Selch's recreation of Amaurot."

"Is something happening to it?" Yuki asked, as she put aside her empty cup. The red-haired Miqo'te shook his head slightly, a concerned look crossed his face.

"No, and that's what concerns me."

"I don't get it," Sumire tilted his head.

The Exarch crossed his arms, "With Emet-Selch's defeat, we assumed that the magicks used to keep it around would begin to fade. Yet, upon a recent scrying, I noticed there was no sign of change. The area shows no sign of weakening as expected, though, for a blessing, it does not seem to be gaining in aetheric density nor expanding. I'd like you to see if the Ondo have noticed anything strange in the area as of late."

Yuki nodded, "Understood," the Viera shifted her weight from one foot to the other. Shoto's hands curled tighter around her teacup as she continued to listen to the discussion and began to think on the Exarch's words. That strange ache in her chest returned at the mention of Emet-Selch. Her eyes focused on the swirl of liquid in her tea cup. Things had been different, ever since Ardbert's soul had rejoined with her. She'd noticed strange things... yet she hadn't wanted to tell anyone else; it felt silly. They reminded her of things they had learned about in Amaurot from the shades; Creation Magic.

Angel seemed similarly focused on the remaining part of his donut; almost to the exclusion of all else. Ice and Sumire both seemed equally thoughtful, yet not as intensely so as Shoto and Angel were. Yuki looked around to the others as she thought about everything so far. She turned back to the Exarch and broke the thoughtful silence first.

"Have you asked Urianger or Y'shtola their opinions?"

"I have," he nodded, "I contacted Y'shtola to ask for her advice on the matter, and she believes she may have new information from some recently rediscovered Ronkan ruins, but would like a bit more time to speak with Urianger and interpret what she and the Viis of Rak'tika found." He looked to the mirror on the back wall, "While she was here, she mentioned that she could see another presence of Amaurotine ruins; they were similar to the ruins that make up the Ondo Cups. It was farther into the depths; farther even than recreation of Amaurot." He fidgeted slightly, then flicked one ear, "While I am able to see a general view of the area, I have yet to be able to focus under the water, and I'm afraid that it's too far from the Tower for me to investigate. It was only due to Y'shtola's vision that we found it at all."

"New ruins...?" Ice's eyes went wide at the mention of more ruins, farther out than Amaurot. He shifted to step forward excitedly, and broke Angel's focus on his donut, "Do you think they might lead to more information on the Ancients like the shades and what we learned in Akadaemia Anyder?"

Angel looked up to his husband with a confused blink. Ice's question snapped Shoto's attention back from her thoughts; perhaps, this would be a good chance to learn more? Maybe she could even find some answers to her own questions.

The Exarch nodded to Ice in return, "It's distinctly possible. Y'shtola has plans to arrive in Eulmore as well, as she is quite interested in these new ruins herself. Once there, you can all journey forth together." He paused, then looked among the group a bit sadly, "Would that I could join you in exploring, alas, I must continue my trials here if we are to send everyone home safely."

* * * The shoebill had been straining to listen to the group below, moving from foot to foot impatiently. Yes, yes, all kinds of assignments and adventures for the intrepid Warriors of Light and Darkness, and their companions. This shard dearly needed "repairs", perhaps more than most others; none of this was new or particularly interesting, and none of it provided a moment he might dramatically emerge and demand information in.

Though... Amaurot. That mention struck a chord, all too sharply, and kept his gaze focused on Shoto. Kept it so focused on Shoto that he almost didn't notice that the image of her blurred with his waning consciousness. Damn it all. Even though he had taken on this smaller form, his strength continued to leave him; the injuries he'd sustained now caused him pain even as a bird. He struggled to remain standing... and he definitely wasn't going to keep his balance on this ledge.

Not now, he thought, but it was no use--he teetered over as he made a small squawk! noise. A rush of wind moved against his feathers. He was falling... falling down to the floor below.

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