[Voice]

[dynast_daughter]

[An exclamation of surprise, followed by a clatter. When Ashe speaks, she sounds angry and irritable]

Should this device see fit to shock me again, I -

...I do not need an electrocution to remind me.

((ooc: replies will be late, so apologies in advance - it's that time of year ;;))

Comments

[clean_cuffs]

Care for some company?

[dynast_daughter]

I...

You may come in, Balthier.

[clean_cuffs]

[He eases open the door, mopping a bit of graphite powder from his hands with a damp cloth. With his spectacles and shadowy stubble on his jaw, he is very much his father's son, though his eyes lack the crazed determination. Eccentricity, genius, yes. But Balthier draws the line at madness. It's bad for one's complexion.

Shutting it as softly as he opened it, the pirate leans against the frame, a small smile on his face.]

"I've always admired those able to speak their mind. You once trusted a pirate enough to confide your troubles in him. I would hope he hasn't lost such confidence."

[dynast_daughter]

[She's standing at the window, looking out over the city. She's lost weight, her clothing hangs more loosely upon her, a result of her not eating properly of late. When Ashe turns to look to Balthier, her own eyes are dull and tired.]

...He has not. I realise I have not been the best of company recently...

[She gestures for him to sit, slowly moving to do the same.]

[clean_cuffs]

[Sitting beside her, he offers a reassuring smile, though her loss of weight is a bit of a concern. Ashe is a petite woman to begin with. Much more might be a hazard to her health.]

"I can understand wanting to be alone with your troubles. I'm prone to enjoying a little alone time with my cares and woes so I have no cause to pass judgment."

[dynast_daughter]

[Eventually looking away from him, her gaze settles upon her lap, where her fingers thread together. Despite her weary appearance, her posture is flawless. Some things just don't go away that easily. Still a queen, however deposed, however disheartened. In all seriousness, Ashe looks to the pirate.]

"Balthier... what do you see, when you look upon me?"

[clean_cuffs]

[He's silent for a long time. He can't answer at first because he owes Ashe much more than a quick answer. As a person, she's far too complicated to be given the first thing that comes to mind.]

"I see someone with boundless strength and compassion, held back only by the fear of losing those things. But that's me."

[He gives her a sidelong glance and a small grin.]

"What's important is how you see yourself."

[dynast_daughter]

[Having awaited his answer with patience and appreciation for the amount of thought he's giving the matter, Ashe nods in acceptance of the reply. She's quiet, thinking over his opinion. When she does eventually speak, it's almost as if the admission causes her pain.]

"I am losing myself, Balthier... I no longer know who I am."