eggbowl | [Dohalim/Gepard] I don't know how to feel...

[Dohalim/Gepard] I don't know how to feel...

[Dohalim wouldn't necessarily call it a chaotic disarray currently, but the sudden departure of one of his captains is, understandably, enough to shake the knights. Serval was truly one of his best, and one who upheld his ideals of coexistence to their core. so it was a surprise to receive her resignation letter, and a quick word of appreciation for the opportunity to serve under him; before he could say anything to try to convince her to change her mind, she was off. though, Dohalim is sure that anything he could have said would have been met with decline. the Landaus, for all their loyalty in serving the il Qaras family for generations (despite their own nobility), are a stubborn folk, and once they've made up their mind on anything, there would be no convincing them of otherwise.

honestly, even if the decision was abrupt, Dohalim knows that she'll be fine. that isn't what's on his mind as he heads down the ornate hallway to the barracks. perhaps a visit paid by him will lift the knights' spirits, but really, he has every intention on seeing one person. Gepard... Serval is his sister, after all. he's not sure what the man is thinking, if he knew of her resignation long before she had made it official, or if this came to just as a surprise to him as everyone else. either way, it would be nice to see Gepard and offer whatever words he can to him.

of course, as soon as he enters the barracks, he's bombarded with questions and requests by the other guards, wondering just what will happen, and how Serval's unit will be taken care of. as much as he wants to brush them aside to look for Gepard, he just can't, in good faith, so it seems like he'll be here for a while. oh well, what kind of leader would he be if he didn't listen to his people?]

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Are you saying that, if you were not one who had pledged undying loyalty to me, you would use this as blackmail against me? I'm surprised, Gepard.

[only because they're alone does Dohalim really let slip any propriety and official titles. between the two of them, no such things are needed to be upheld, and it only solidifies his trust he has in the man. even his closest advisors don't have this level of comfort, nor his closest servants. Gepard is just... special.

it is a bit of a hike up, but the makeshift trail does help with the trek somewhat. it's still a rather narrow pathway, clearly not a path well traversed, though it seems like Dohalim has been up and down enough that he's tamped down enough of the plants and earth. he clearly knows where he's going by how little he's paying attention to where he's stepping.

by the time they reach the peak of the hill, the sun is much lower, still high enough that they'll have plenty of light, but low enough to signal that it's much later in the day than when they left the palace. Dohalim himself isn't so worried about it, often finding himself up in this spot well after the sun had set. below, there's a clear view of Viscint, and Gilanne Woodland off to the side of the palace. even in the far off distance, Traslida Highway can be seen, as well as the mountain peaks separating Menancia to Cyslodia. honestly, it's no wonder Dohalim favours this spot, when he can see the splendor of his realm]

Here we are. I like to come up here when I'm... Deep in thought.

... No, I was rather implying I wouldn't come here to try and find you later. A kindness, for our past.

[Gepard clears his throat, perhaps a little embarrassed to be seen in such a way. of course, Dohalim is probably being a little facetious. they both know he'd never blackmail him, after all.

his steps are a little more careful, following in the Lord's as they make their way along. the overgrowth and greenery is beautiful on its own, but when they reach the destination... it's a whole different thing. the guard captain pauses there, just taking in the sights from this vantage. the setting sun only enhances it all, and the way it lights Dohalim's face... ah.]

... I can imagine why you would choose this place when things are... out of the norm.

[his voice is soft, gaze flicking from Dohalim back to the surroundings. a sweet breeze flows by, rustling leaves just faintly. indeed... indeed, this is a wonderful little secret spot.]

Out of the norm... That's one way of saying it.

[Dohalim huffs out a small laugh as he moves to sit down. the grass is more kempt here than it should be, now fairly obvious that he comes up here quite often. he slips off his shoes and lets his feet bury themselves in verdant blades; he feels so much more connected to the earth this way. it's almost meditative, really]

I never would have thought that I would see something so lush and beautiful living in Lenegis. Perhaps, when the Crown Contest is over, I'll stay here.

[it's no secret among the palace and his court that Dohalim has no intentions of vying for the sovereignty, and he's lucky that he hadn't been met with opposition on the topic. if only he could stop the harvest of astral energy altogether, but... that would only raise suspicion from the Empire. and the last thing he wants, despite not even wanting the lordship, is for him to be replaced with another ruthless lord, and reverse everything he'd implemented. he wants to keep this peace.

and honestly, if Gepard and Serval and Lynx were to stay here on Dahna, then... there isn't anything on Lenegis tying him down to it. especially with... no, he shouldn't be thinking about that. not when he's supposed to be here for Gepard]

Would you... Stay down here with me, if that's the case?

Perhaps it's a bit mild... but it covers most topics, I think.

[now that they're here, he can relax a little more. He never really had to raise his guard too much, to be fair, but still... the younger man is important to him. Perhaps more important than he should be, if he really thinks about it. Setting aside their food and his shield, Gepard moves to find somewhere to sit and join him.]

I never thought it was possible, even on Dahna. But... it suits you, too.

[There was always a consideration that Dohalim might choose to stay - not by nature of his prestige, but because of his personality, really. Gepard had been prepared for this from the time they'd been sent off to Viscint in the first place, but... it sparks some sense of uneasiness in him to hear it so casually. The Crown Contest may feel like a distant goal post, but it marches ever closer. As for him...]

... I... it's a difficult decision for me to make, admittedly.

[He should be comforted by the fact that he has his line, that he is... well, a Landau. His duty is to the leadership, isn't it? Of course, by the end of the Crown Contest, he'll be old enough to have a few options, but...]

I would be lying if I said there was no part of me that upholds the traditions of my family. Unlike Serval, I feel more connected to it... and I'm afraid there may be expectations that pull me away from staying. [He is their son, after all.] were it my choice alone, I would stay without a second thought.

[As his gaze turns back out to Menancia, to the verdant land and all its splendors, he looks... almost lost, in the moment. Serval's sudden departure, the idea of having to leave while Dohalim stays, to give up on this beautiful place... there's so much weighing on his mind in the wake of it. Rarely does his family name feel like a weight placed on his shoulders, but it's clear this particular circumstance causes no small amount of anguish. It's a vulnerability he rarely shows, a testament to his comfort in the other man's presence.]

I suppose... it will ultimately depend on what my sister does. Despite her... creative differences in upholding our name, she still does so. Perhaps if she decides to stay, it would open an opportunity for me, as well. [His smile is wan and wry.] Someone has to keep an eye on you both, lest you end up making very... creative messes.

Mm... That's what I thought.

[it's just so painfully Gepard to uphold those traditions, to accept whatever it is that is asked of him. it's honestly the way of Renan society. they all have their places and positions, responsibilities to tend to. he's no different. he had the expectations of becoming a lord placed on him that he'd trained every day until the time came that he had to go through his trials. if it were up to him, then things would have been different. quite possibly, both his and Gepard's lives would be different. there would be things he would act upon without hesitation, if reciprocated--

no, he really shouldn't be thinking about that.

sighing softly to himself, Dohalim glances up at the other man, the setting sun creating a halo of light around him, or so it seems. he so wants to reach up and tilt Gepard's face towards him, so he can look at those blue eyes--]

What creative messes? As far as I remember, I'm the one who gets dragged into them.

[Dohalim's argument is only half hearted, but he matches Gepard's wry smile with his own. leave it to the captain to pull him out of thoughts he shouldn't be thinking about. it would be silly of him to think that whatever deeper feelings and need for connection would be met in kind by the man; they're only friends]

I apologise that I can offer no more concrete an answer, Dohalim.

[Gepard's gaze stays on the view, lest something in him should crumble looking back at Dohalim. there have been few moments where he would consider cursing his responsibilities, but this... this is perhaps the deepest, most painful of them. to think of leaving Dohalim behind, of being unable to stop and see how he's doing, of being even nearby... would that he could escape the cycle of being a Landau.

he envies Serval in that; her nature is so headstrong that her family line can't be denied, and yet she operates with a clarity and self-assuredness that Gepard can only imagine having. to think she would leave his side in this way, too...]

... I suppose that's true. It's normally Serval and her inventions causing havoc, isn't it? But regardless, you do both always protect one another, too.

[maybe that bothers him a little, too. not that they're close - both of them are perfectly fine friends and they deserve that. it's just... there's a distance he keeps - a distance he has to keep, lest he break the tenets of professionalism with his Lord. if he could just put them aside for a short moment, maybe it would be better, but Dohalim is too important for someone like him.]

What... do you think you would do, after the Crown Contest? With the end of your Lordship, I imagine you would have quite a few options available to you.

It's fine.

[and by fine, Dohalim really means it's not fine. Serval already left and while it's true that they aren't as close as he and Gepard, she's still very dear to him. now that he has the time to slowly process her departure, it's starting to sink in that he won't be walking by her in the hallways, striking up conversation whenever they do pass by. she's always been so easy to talk to, and it's like she's the big sister he never had. and now that there's also the possibility that Gepard may have to leave his side too... it seems that everyone he cares about truly does leave him in the end. but, of course, it's not like he can voice this to the man, not when he brings up a good point. it's just the nature of who he is, and what family he's from. he'd just hoped that, considering how close their families are, how close they are that he could be the exception...]

I find Serval's inventions rather innovative. She could put some of the scientists in Lenegis to shame if she were to bring them back up there. I hope that whatever path she chooses from here out, she'll be able to create whatever it is she wants. Music included.

[he supposes that's why he likes her; their love for music did bring them close, and Dohalim has to smile warmly at the countless hours spent on their craft and sheet music with hastily written out notes stacked around them. simpler days, for sure, but fond memories nonetheless. and while she understood why Dohalim refuses to play his violin anymore, he does have to lament taking away the very thing that created that bond between them]

As for me... I'm not too sure. I suppose it depends on what my family wants of me. I do wish to stay here, but... I would have to make a compelling argument. [Dohalim's voice drops a little] I just don't... I don't want this realm to fall back on old ways. To the days where Dahnans would suffer day in and day out. I don't want to hear those screams and cries of anguish again. I want to see this realm grow and flourish, both in nature, and the people alike. If I were to stay here... Perhaps I could stay as an advisor to the next lord, and pray that they see the same views I do.

I think we've known each other long enough to know that it isn't as simple as fine.

[There's no bitterness to it, just the soft reminder that Gepard is quite aware of the heaviness of his answer. He has no intention of forcing Dohalim to confront his feelings on the matter, but perhaps he hopes it will at least remind him that he doesn't need to be alone with his thoughts. For now, at least, he is ever at his lord's side.]

Innovative, yes... but innovation should not bring with it property damage.

[sometimes, it really seems like Gepard is the elder sibling, not that he's not younger and once relied on Serval to protect him. Of course, Dohalim may have missed all of those years, but he does know their ages. And while he never had the same connections, he was often there, listening in the background. It's a shame, understandable as it is, that Dohalim has put down the violin seemingly for good.

As he speaks of his intentions, the guard looks over to him again, focusing on taking in every word. It will be difficult, he thinks, convincing his family to let him stay. They aren't without compassion, but Dahna... well, most of Lenegis' denizens pay it no mind.

For a moment, he's silent, mulling over his words. Dohalim is an idealist, but he's also a visionary and a kind, warm presence. It's what originally drew him to the man, what made him so excited to follow him to Dahna.]

... it would be a shame to see your efforts go to waste. To lose more of the people we protect... if it is something you can convince them of, then I would apply to join you without hesitation. I like to imagine Serval would stay here too... whatever path she decides to take. Knowing she would be leaving you in a bind was plainly a regret she held close.

[He should know, really. They see less dissimilar than many realise.]

I wonder, sometimes... just what is the point in the Crown Contest? Its history is long and prestigious, and yet I can't think of a single thing that the Lords' efforts ever brought to Lenegis. Perhaps it's worth reexamining whether it's the right path, when we return home. I don't mean to say that I don't trust their judgment, but... it's strange.

You do have a point about the property damage, but you do have to admit, she has some incredible ideas. She was one of the people, if not the person who spearheaded in creating the device that gives the Dahnan guardsmen transferal technology for their weaponry. I can forgive her.

[tilting himself back a little, Dohalim leans back on his arms. his nonchalant posture is so the opposite of who and what he is, and for a moment, he just looks... normal. like a normal person without the responsibilities of upholding his family name, leading a country, making sure his peoples' needs are met. truly, it's a weight he has to bear, and he has to wonder just how much longer he can carry it gracefully]

It will be a hard argument. If the Renan people can't even fathom the idea of breaking away from societal norms, then...

[Dohalim falls silent, watching Gepard as he voices his concern. that... he never really thought of that. perhaps it's because his family had produced several lords in the last three hundred years that it was something he'd just come to accept but... the captain brings up a good point]

...You best be careful with that train of thought. It might bring you more trouble than it's worth. However, now that you mention it... [Dohalim stops himself before he can finish that thought, clearing his throat softly] The sovereign rules from Rena. Lenegis is but the planet's satellite. Perhaps they perform their duties away from the public eye, to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

[he will admit that even his own reasoning sounds a little ridiculous, but what other reason does he have?]

I feel obligated to remind you that you also weren't the one helping to repair the damage and apologise to the citizens. But... you're right, of course. Her assistance can hardly be overstated.

[for him, he knows its origins. his - the Landau Family's - dedication is to the people of Lenegis, long before Rena itself. they are Renans, but the people themselves come before the planet so few of them will ever see. even so, he can't help the slightly crooked smile Dohalim's concern draws forth.]

Worry not, I have no intention of making it widely known. Likely, it's simply a flaw in my thinking, given the time we've been down here. I would be lying if I said you had no part in it. [shifting, he reaches to grasp Do's shoulder, squeezing lightly.] I know your reasons may be complicated, but... your kindness has made more of an impact than you may ever know.

[the hand on his shoulder draws the slightest dusting of pink to Dohalim's cheeks; the touch is so warm. no one else in his court would dare touch him like this, or address him without the preface of lord, so to be in Gepard's company is comforting. but at the mention of his own kindness, Dohalim pulls his gaze away, looking at anything else but the other man and the city below them]

My kindness... I am not nearly as virtuous as you believe. You should know this.

[he is, of course, speaking of the competition for the lordship. no one really knows what happened, and how it ended the way that it did, but the fact still remains. he was the one who killed Tarnigen. he'd hoped to incapacitate him, but... even he misjudged his own strength, and his fight response.

perhaps it's pointless to try to seek consolation from a soldier who's had to cut down those who've threatened the peace of the land, but it's an undeniable truth: Dohalim has blood on his hands, and there's no way he can wash it off. which is why he doesn't say anything on the matter itself, though he's sure that Gepard would pick up on it regardless]

Whether or not you're virtuous isn't my place to say... but the things you do, selfish or not, are kind. Doing them for your own reasons doesn't discount the effect they have.

[He rarely brings up the competition, aware of how deeply it had affected Dohalim. Knowing the man, he can tell there was more to it, but the fact is that Tarnigen died and that the redhead took it to guilt.

Pushing his hair back, Gepard looks out to the surroundings, breathing in to sigh deeply.]

I wish that I had something more uplifting to offer, but... it never gets easier. Especially when you feel responsible for the loss.

[Gepard doesn't talk about it much, the weight of the lost. True, he would cut down threats to his people without hesitating, but... even outside of his own regrets he thinks he can understand where his lord is coming from. What if it had been Serval, or even Dohalim, in front of him?]

I understand why you don't want to think about it, and I won't ask you to. Just know that if you want to talk to someone, you always have my ear.

[all Dohalim wants is to lean against Gepard, feel his strength and warmth, and forget both of their positions for a while. if only it were so easy to fall into those inhibitions, but would they ever be reciprocated? Dohalim thinks not. no, they're just really close friends, with a divide between them, a barrier that shouldn't be crossed, even if the captain has the same feelings. he holds a position of power over Gepard, as much as he doesn't like to think about it, and it just wouldn't be appropriate. and again, they're just friends. there's no way Gepard feels the same way.

right?

his gaze lands back onto the other man, there's a slight guilt in the smile that forms on his lips. ah... leave it to him to offer comfort when he isn't obligated to]

We were supposed to be here consoling you, not the other way around. I apologise for turning the conversation onto me. However, I appreciate the offer.

[it's a matter of Dohalim actually accepting said offer that's the real question. he's always willing to lend a helping hand, but when it comes to accepting help himself? that's a sort of weakness he doesn't like showing]

[Gepard can't help but laugh, shaking his head.]

I turned the subject... besides, you truly needn't worry about me. At worst, I'll brood for a few days over the argument, but this is how we always are.

[He doesn't miss that Dohalim doesn't seem apt to take his offer, but there's no offense in that. It was given freely and because he wanted to, not for the hope of acceptance.

If only he could actually say what he thinks, what he's felt since before Dohalim became Lord. It would have been frowned upon in Lenegis, if the redhead even felt the same way, and here... he's little more than a soldier. Dohalim may not realise it, but he truly is a kind-hearted person; it'd surely be his misunderstanding if he leaned into the feeling of appreciation too far.]

Are you hungry? I'm sure I've something that will go well with the scenery.

[so he moves on, quietly and delicately guiding the conversation too innocuous small talk. There's always a trace of his feelings on his face, though; he's never been the best at hiding them, at least not since they left Lenegis. As long as he can stay near Dohalim, it's fine, he tells himself.

Maybe that's why the idea of him staying here, of duty taking Gepard back, stings so much. He has no intention of talking about it in any case, already moving to rummage through the snacks he's brought and set up somewhere comfortable for them to sit and eat.]

[if he's honest, Dohalim isn't particularly hungry, but he also doesn't want Gepard's effort of putting a meal together and lugging it all the way up the hill to go to waste]

I suppose I could nibble on something. However, I wish I had brought a bottle of wine to go with the food.

[so typical of him to think of libations when eating. so what if he enjoys a bottle... or two to himself while he eats; a meal just isn't the same without the pairing of a nice vintage.

as Gepard gets the food settled, Dohalim watches the city down below, the sun just about to disappear completely in the horizon. he reaches over to nudge the captain gently, before gesturing to Viscint]

You may want to see this.

[as it starts to darken, the lanterns start to light up one by one, starting from the city bazaar, and spreading down the streets to the residential areas. the palace illuminates itself in the same light, warm and inviting. while watching the city come to life at night from the balcony of Autelina, to see it up here in its splendor is an entirely different experience. it only makes him more protective of the realm itself, even if it is for a completely selfish reason. to keep Menancia this beautiful... he'll find a way to keep it this way, even after his tenure]

A fair regret... though probably for the best, under the circumstances. I hope water will nonetheless suffice.

[There's just too many variables out here, and the idea of adding another is... rather unpleasant for Gepard (even if Dohalim is manageable even drunk). And the snacks, at least, are small enough to not be a problem even if the other isn't that hungry. They're mostly light little finger sandwiches and some pastries, all soft and flavorful.

When Dohalim nudges him, he turns his gaze to the man, then to Viscint. There really is something truly magical about watching it come to life, the flicker of lights as they draw over the city. It really has become something of a true home for him, and he's so comfortable even with the Dahnans... a warm smile joins the expression of splendorous awe in the sight.

Really... the idea of being anywhere else seems completely unreasonable.]

It's beautiful... I rarely get to see how it all lights up. No wonder you like it here.

[quietly, he shifts to ensure the blanket is laid out comfortably for them both. Perhaps a drink would have been nice... it certainly would have complemented the view.]

[as the blanket and snacks are laid out, Dohalim goes and makes himself comfortable. it's slowly starting to become dusky, but just light enough that he can see what little sandwiches and pastries are laid out in front of them. he definitely should eat considering that they may stay here well after nightfall, and past dinner time. at least, when they do arrive back in the city, Gepard will be with him and there won't be as many raised concerns of him being out so late. and thankfully, the other man is so high up in his rankings that no one should be questioning him, either.

and really, as much as he likes being alone, being up here with Gepard is nice, as well. he couldn't even think of another person he'd rather be up here with. there's the quickest flash of longing on his face as he looks at the captain, before turning his attention onto the food and picking up a sandwich. the food itself is so simple and modest, but even the first bite is flavourful. even the bread itself is as fluffy as it looks]

There are other vantage points I like to go up to, depending on how long of a walk I'd rather go on, and depending on my mood. But this is one of my favourites. And... I'm glad I could share it with you.

[a small admission, and one he's sure the other man won't reciprocate in the way he wants him to. perhaps, with their positions though, it's for the best]

Perhaps... sometime in the future, you can show me more of them.

[in the gentle quiet of this secluded place, Gepard can practically feel some of the rigidity he carries in his work fall away. It's hard not to, in this calm place with Dohalim by his side - close, but not close enough. Maybe, if he was a little younger, if their roles were a little different...]

It's... a little strange, really. [laughing, Gepard picks up his own snacks to nibble on, weight resting just a little closer to Dohalim. Just a little, surely not a problem.] there's so much to see from up here, yet I find myself lost for words. Maybe... it's more that the quiet is enjoyable, and the company.

[It's a lot more... stripped down and raw than his usual self is. A little closer to the young man Dohalim hasn't seen since he was very young, before the awkward, relatively introverted child became a proper guard.]

Feel free to use this spot as you wish, then. If you ever need the company as well, I am always up for a walk.

[Dohalim's voice is soft as his gaze turns to watch Gepard again. even in the dimmed light, he still looks radiant, softer now that he's a little removed from his post. despite wanting to talk about Serval and the man's feelings about her leaving, this is also an acceptable turn of events, even if the conversation pivoted onto him for a moment.

eyes trail along the side of his face, and down, noticing that he's leaning just a little closer, enough that it wouldn't be any effort enough to reach out and touch him. but it must be his imagination, a trick of his eyes in the creeping night sky. maybe it's just more comfortable for him to sit like that, or something. all Dohalim can do is deny anything, and himself, and push away any of those thoughts that there could be something more than their friendship with each other. however, it doesn't stop him as he speaks next, not being able to catch the words as they slip from his lips]

...Would you join me later for wine in my chambers?

I think I would rather prefer it with company, so perhaps I'll take you up on that.

[his expression is far too soft, too open, like this. it's something even he doesn't notice, scattered with surprise when Dohalim speaks again. the request isn't that surprising, just... he never expected it. just the idea of joining him for a drink, especially in his chambers? he can't quite help the tinge of pink it brings to his face, hoping the fading light might hide it.]

That... if you don't mind the fact that I don't drink much, I would happily join you.

[doesn't drink, can't drink... well honestly, he doesn't know which it is for sure. before now, he's only had little drinks here and there. something about always working, he supposes.]

[before he could retract the offer, Gepard had gone and accepted it, and all Dohalim can do is tell himself he's being stupid for even offering it. even if it's just to have drinks between friends, having wine in his chambers of all places is a little inappropriate, right? but... Gepard had said yes. is it because he just can't say no to him? is he just being polite?

but he said yes.

there's a warmth in Dohalim's chest that bursts, happy that Gepard had accepted his offer. but he can't help but think he needs to give him some sort of excuse as to why he invited him. or, he could keep his mouth shut, but would that come off as seeking some sort of ulterior motive if he doesn't tell him anything?]

You don't have to drink much... I am aware I can drink quite a bit so you don't have to feel obligated to drink along with me. But I figured you would like to continue this conversation somewhere a little more comfortable.

That would be more than acceptable, though I think I've been lost for much more conversation than the scenery here.

[Gepard can't help but wonder, too. if it wasn't his chambers, perhaps it would be less so, but... is there a possibility it could mean anything? and even if it did, how would they manage to get around to the confirmation of it? really, he shouldn't even be going to the Lord's own room, even for drinks. it doesn't stop him, the sense of yearning too strong.

he'll... he'll figure it out. and he's curious about how much Do really drinks anyway.]

We can go whenever you're ready. I'm quite comfortable just sitting here with you until then.

Mm, we should head back soon. The weather is mild, but the winds from Mahag Saar tends to pick up later in the evening.

[an excuse, perhaps, to get back to the city soon, now that he has something to look forward to. however, it is still early enough in the night that they both have their respective responsibilities to tie up for the day, and being up here definitely had pushed them back a little. oh well, in his eyes, this was worth it. and, at least, he knows not to worry too much over the Landau siblings. if Gepard isn't so concerned for Serval, then he shouldn't be, either. and he knows that the elder sister can handle herself.

now that he's thinking about her departure, Dohalim is sure that's what it is. perhaps he's just seeking the company of a friend. it's the reason why he'd invited Gepard up here after all, right? that has to be it. he knows he can be a bit emotional, and perhaps he's mistaking his feelings of separation as something more. and friends invite each other over for drinks. that has to be what it is.

...right?

it's what he's going to keep telling himself, ignoring all of the other lingering stares and need for the other man's warm touches and presence. a shiver pulls Dohalim out of his thoughts, a breeze passes by them]

Perhaps now would be a good time...

I'll take your word on it.

[as reluctant as he is to step away from Dohalim, there is enough for them to do that reconvening is probably the best choice. by the time a breeze passes over them, rustling his hair and plainly pulling a little shiver from the redhead, Gepard is already moving to pack everything back up.]

Indeed, it seems so.

[climbing to his feet, Gepard offers Dohalim a hand to help him do the same. after that, once he's gotten the blanket folded and put away, they can get on their way... with no particular rush, at least.]

Is there a time I should wait before joining you? I should be done with my remaining duties before too long when we return.

[Dohalim's hold on Gepard's hand lingers for a moment longer than it should, before he pulls away in favour of slipping his shoes back on. the breeze is still rather gentle, but with the thinner linens of his regalia, it does go right through it. he doesn't show just how much the chill gets to him, but he's so used to the mild warmth of Menancia that any sort of bite feels too cold.

he's lost all sense of time, as he usually does when he's walking along the hills surrounding the city, but it shouldn't be too late. he hums softly, and leads the captain down once everything is packed up again]

A couple of hours. That should be sufficient enough time to finish up any of our duties for the day, as well as have a proper dinner. And that will give me enough time to bathe and turn down for the night. Would that be alright with you?

[it's a couple hours too long, but they do have their own things to do. but it's not like it's forever, even if it might seem like it]

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