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ricard-blythe-ffxiv · 2 years

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Meeting the Parents

A week’s worth of preparation.

A week’s worth of mentally preparing himself to have both Cress sisters and his parents in one room for an extended period of time. Ricard’s gaze narrowed at his reflection in the mirror as he adjusted his tie, his vest, and then his jacket before running a hand through his hair quickly.

He could have had a month and he still wouldn’t have felt adequately prepared.

His gaze cut to the door as there was a sharp knock and he turned from his mirror, picking up his glass as he responded. “Enter.”

“Your parents are requesting your presence in the sitting room, sir. It’s nearly time for your guests to…”

“I know what time it is, Vincent.” Ricard turned, downing what remained in his glass and heading through the open door, past the Elezen man. “The dining room is prepared?”

“To your mother’s specifications…” Vincent closed the door before hurrying to catch up to Ricard.

“And the drink cart?”

“Prepared to your specifications, sir.”

“Very good.” Ricard paused at the foot of the stairs, glancing down the entry hall towards the door of the estate. He pulled a timepiece from his vest, checking the time before offering the staff manning the door a quick nod before moving through the hall and into the sitting room where his parents, both seemingly relaxed and comfortable, were waiting.

“Good of you to join us, son.” Gerald barely glanced up from the book he was perusing, while Catherine shot her son an amused glance over the rim of her glass.

“I was merely seeing to last minute preparations…”

“Mmhm. We’re certain you were dear. Now, have a seat and wait. I sure your bride-to-be and her sister will be along shortly.”

The Blythes didn’t have to wait long as in in true Cress fashion, the company had arrived on time; ever punctual as was the way Vahalia operated and Valeria was never one to dally. Two knocks were afforded to the door leading into the parlor and the two doors swung open, the man standing to the side to introduce the trio where they were to be received. “The Lady Vahalia Cress, Lady Valeria Cress and Mr. Voss Thorne.” the manservant announced their arrival.

Voss leaned over to the man and was loud enough for at least him and the girls to hear, “That is Captain Vosseryn Thorne. Let’s try it again from the top good chap. Don’t want to be getting fired now 'cause you said the name wrong.” There was a shake in Vosseryn’s head as he looked at the man, “I’ll spare you the fancy titles because we will be standing here for an hour.” Be on his best behavior Valeria said and not even a few minutes in and he was already being his casual self. Of course, such elicited a jab to Voss’s side from Vahalia as the woman brought up alongside him to take his arm. Unannounced and quite discrete as she aimed to keep him somewhat in check; tonight was Valeria’s night, after all.

“Fancy place they got here.” Voss said towards Valeria and Vahalia in a hushed tone and he continued, “So this is what the noble life gets ya, huh.” He looked towards Vahalia and wiggled his brow, “Not to late love, we can repeat history but the right way this time.” There was that shit face smirk on his face and even a little snicker. “We can talk about it over dinner.”

“You don’t exactly make the cut.” Vahalia hushed back up to Voss and she stepped into the room with her guest and sister in tow.

Ricard had barely arrived at the drink cart, the bottle of bourbon in one hand and the cap firmly gripped by the other, when the names were announced. He whipped around, his gaze narrowing at the staff member near the doorway, his grip on the bottle tightening. “I’m sorry, I must have misheard that last name, what was it again?”

It wasn’t the staff, but his mother who answered him. “Mr. Voss Thorne. Your hearing is just fine, don’t make the poor man repeat himself, Ricard. Fix your drink and come sit.”

He turned, his jaw clenched tightly, and did fix his drink…pouring double the amount he normally would and taking a large sip before replacing the bottle and making his way back over to his parents to take his seat.

Gerald Blythe’s eyes narrowed at the man who entered with the Cress sisters. “This is the result of hard work, not just nobility, sir. And may I remind you that you are a guest within these halls. The employment status of my employees is no business of yours. He announced the title he was provided.”

Catherine reached over, setting a hand on her husband’s forearm. “At ease, dear. I’m sure the man meant no offense.”

“Lord and Lady Blythe.” Vahalia spoke aloud and took the opportunity to take control of the room, “Ricard.” She added curtly but she offered the three within their own home a small nod of her head, “Thank you for hosting this evening, Valeria is quite excited.” The woman in familiar red, usual choker, ruby earrings and swept back hair had stepped to the side and waved a hand for Valeria to come closer for the pair Lord and Lady of the house.

Tucked behind Vahalia and Voss, Valeria moved forward revealing herself with a smile. The woman wore a forest green elegant dress, a familiar choker as well as the bracelet Ricard gifted her not along ago. Her hair was kept into a high ponytail and her earrings matched the dress.

Vahalia’d be damned if she spent the evening letting Vosseryn control the room like a carnival or that it become a tasteless and bland affair by drolling on with small talk until people found themselves mentally exhausted before the night was out. Her fingers curled in along her palm and she looked back to Catherine and Gerald, “It’s been a long time coming but, this is my sister Valeria.”

A smile curled on Valeria’s face as she greeted both Catherine and Gerald in traditional fashion, “It is a pleasure to meet you both Lord and Lady Blythe, thank you for having me and hosting such an event.”

Ricard took a long sip of his drink as his gaze moved over both sisters, his mother standing and walking over to the younger women.

“We are happy to have you all here this evening and we have been quite eager to meet you, Valeria. Come, let me get a better look at you dear. We’ve heard such lovely things about you.”

Voss said nothing as he stayed at Vahalia’s side, a well mannered guest. On occasion he eyed Ricard with a death stare and then back to Valeria as if being a bit too over protective. With Vahalia on his arm she admired her sister speaking with Catherine, free hand eventually finding Voss’s forearm to give it a small pat – the little Sparrow was going to be in her element in no time.

Valeria moved closer, giving them a better look as they asked. She turned around and smiled while her cheeks turned a shade of red, “Is that so. I am curious about what was said.” She giggled before looking at Ricard with a smile, once again giving him a formal greeting as well. “Good evening, Ricard.”

Catherine hummed thoughtfully as she watched Valeria twirl before glancing back over her shoulder at Ricard with a small smile. One could almost see the plotting going on behind her eyes. Meanwhile the Blythe son paid the death stares no mind as he set his drink down gently on a near by table and stood, moving over next to his mother. “What was said? Only the truth and only positive things. Good evening to you as well, Valeria.” He offered a small bow before turning and offering her his arm. “You look lovely this evening.”

Valeria walked over and took his arm, “Thank you, you look handsome as well.” That smile continued to linger as she looked at him.

He turned his attention to Vahalia and Voss, recognition flashing across his features for a brief moment at Vahalia’s attire. “As do you, Vahalia. As my mother said, we’re happy to have you all here this evening. Please, make yourselves comfortable.” He shifted back motioning towards the available seating with his free hand. “Something to drink for the three of you? We’ll be moving to the dining hall shortly, but nothing wrong with light conversation and a decent drink.”

The Lord Blythe gave a quick hand motion and the same drink cart that Ricard had been standing at when the trio had been announced was wheeled over, one of the servants prepared to deliver drinks as they were requested.

Catherine nodded as she moved to sit down next to her husband once again. “Yes, please have a seat and have a drink. I’d love to learn a bit more about both of you…and perhaps of your escort this evening, Lady Vahalia. After all, we’re all to be family soon enough and I find myself quite curious about the woman who has managed to capture my son’s ever-elusive attention.” She turned towards Valeria with a smile, eyes sharp as she reached for her own drink, and took a sip.

Vahalia managed on her own and quietly with Voss as the pair tried not to take up too much space within the room, allowing the evening to Valeria to be the social butterfly they knew she could be. Drinks had been served up and Vahalia had made purchase from her glass in hand as she ticked a gaze to Catherine as the question was posed about their additional guest at her arm, “Mr. Thorne here is an old friend and has been a good friend to Valeria over the course of a long while. He owns his own ship, isn’t that right Voss?” Vahalia’s yellow eyes blinked up towards the man at her side.

Voss sat beside Vahalia making sure there was enough room for the both of them. His attention focused on the server for a moment, “Your best bourbon.” He smiled before his attention was then focused on Vahalia as he was addressed and looked at the couple across from them, “That’s right, I deal in transportation and trade, upon one of my many trips I stumbled upon Valeria, since then we have been close friends.” He smiled at Valeria, “She is very close to my second hand named Oricila Blythe though I doubt there is any familiarity between the two.” Voss looked at Vahalia for a moment and smiled again before taking a sip of his drink giving time for others to speak. The smile of course wasn’t lost on the woman and she merely offered a ghost of a smirk back at him, following up with nothing but a simple sip from her glass in hand.

“Oh yes, Voss is one of my closest friends along with Oricila, she is quite lovely.” Valeria said in a cheerful tone as she was handed her own drink. She looked towards Ricard and her sister with a smile before focusing on the Blythes eager to see what questions they would have for her.

Gerald hummed thoughtfully as his wife settled against him once again. Catherine settled quickly her gaze shifting between the two sisters as she turned her glass between her fingers. “Is she? Perhaps we’ll meet this young woman one day.” She lifted her glass, taking a small sip as her gaze shifted from Valeria, to Ricard, and then back. She also hummed as she lowered her glass slowly.

“So, Valeria... I notice that you and your sister are both wearing these lovely chokers. I’ve never seen anything quite like them. Surely there’s a story behind such a lovely piece. Perhaps one…or both of you, would be willing to share?”

Ricard tilted his head for a moment before glancing between the two women. “You’ve mentioned the importance of the choker before, but never the history behind it…I’d certainly be interested to hear the story if you’d be willing to tell it.”

Valeria smiled, “That would be quite lovely if you could meet her. She is truly a wonderful person. Isn’t that right, Voss?”

A simple nod came from the man who was in mid sip but then his attention turned to the choker that both Valeria and Vahalia wore, “There is history to those things?” He looked at Vahalia with a questionable look, “Please do share us the tale of the chokers. I am quite interested in it as well.” He got more comfortable in the seat as if he was waiting for the perfect story time to begin. So attentive and not acting like the usual annoying being that he could be.

Valeria turned a shade red, “My sister is probably better to tell the story as mine kind of has an added history to it.”

A soft blink was afforded by Vahalia as the questions as handed off to her and she set her glass to the side, “Throughout the generations the boys of the family would be taken out on their first hunt with their fathers. Typically the hide of the first kills are used for them to fashion their own quivers or sheaths from the materials and leathers but for the women in the family the approach is some form of jewelry and so for my sister and I, we had settled on necklaces. They’ve been with us ever since.” The woman pursed her ruby lips a moment finding a simple pause, “Some might find the task a little grotesque for young girls barely pre-teens but hunting and trophy collecting isn’t beyond the men in my family and has been done for generations.”

Listening attentively, Gerald motioned for a refill of his drink, “It doesn’t sound grotesque at all. The ability to hunt, to track, is a useful skill one that shouldn’t be restricted to one gender. It’s rare to find a family tradition that is as useful as it is sentimental.” He turned his gaze to his son and to Valeria for a moment. “Is this one that the two of you plan on continuing?”

“That would depend on Valeria, as it’s her family tradition. It would also depend on whether or not this tradition is dependent on the children having a Cress last name.” Ricard took a long sip of his drink and looked between the two sisters for a moment. “...But I see no reason why it couldn’t be continued if that is not the case…”

Valeria looked between her sister and Ricard before addressing Gerald, “I would like to keep that tradition going whether they have the Cress name or not. They are part Cress and part Blythe and our family history will be continued through them, and their children.”

The Captain shifted his attention to Catherine, “Speaking of the girls Lady Blythe, would your family share something similar. Something that shares family history, I am rather interested.”

There was a low hum before Catherine took a small sip of her drink, tilting her head from side to side. “Curious that you ask me, and not my husband as the Blythe history would technically be his. But to answer your question, dear…to the best of my knowledge there are no family traditions that would be similar to what Lady Vahalia shared. The closest thing may be the family heirloom, passed from one bride to the next. I do believe I spotted Valeria wearing it this evening.”

“Forgive me, Lady Blythe.” Voss smiled before drawing his attention to Valeria’s wrist, “That is a lovely heirloom.”

She turned, offering the younger woman a smile. “And it does look quite fetching on your wrist, dear.” The smile turned impish. “But…since this talk of your choker has brought up traditions and in turn has brought up children…what are you thoughts on children, Valeria?”

Ricard’s eyes narrowed. “Mother…”

“What? It’s just a question, dear.”

Valeria smiled, “It’s alright Ricard.”

She focused her attention towards Catherine, “I adore children and hope to one day have a few of my own. I can’t quite put my finger on an exact number if that is to be your next question. I will be grateful for whatever I am blessed with. But as I said before I would love our families traditions to be carried on to them as well. Should there ever be a concern about certain traditions then we can have a talk and hope to provide comfort in why this tradition is valued, if that is okay with everyone that is.”

“Sure, if one of you are able to hunt.” Vahalia pointedly offered, “-- or Ricard could always just hire someone to take the wee-ones out to find something that catches their eye to hunt. I see no reason not to carry on traditions if people wish. Maybe they can make their own little bracelets too.”

“I could. But what would be the point of paying someone for something I could easily take care of myself?” Slowly, Ricard shifted his glass, swirling and considering it’s contents for a moment before lifting his eyes and glancing across at Vahalia.

"Do you know how to hunt?"

“I do, in fact.”

"Of course. You should teach me sometime." Vahalia smiled across the room to the man.

“To hunt?”

“That is the topic of conversation, yes.”

“Or, perhaps we should wait to discuss the passing on of such traditions until there actually a need for such discussions, hm?” Gerald’s gaze cut to Ricard for a moment who had opened his mouth to respond and quickly shut it in favor of taking another long sip of his drink.

“...Of course. No need for such discussions at the moment. But…should you ever wish to learn to hunt, Vahalia. I’d be happy to teach you.”

“My father taught me how to hunt, I’d be more interested in learning your ways of hunting, however. One can never learn too much.” she flashed a dazzling and well-practiced smile across the room at the man and finally settled to quiet herself within her drink again. She was doing far too much talking for her liking; entertaining a room was hard work after all.

The smile did nothing but cause Ricard’s grip to tighten on his glass, his jaw clenching for a moment though he was keenly aware of his parents’ gaze on him. “Duly noted. Perhaps when the time comes and I’m to teach your niece or nephew you’d be willing to share your knowledge. As it may not hurt them to learn multiple approaches depending on their prey.”

“A concept I’d be entirely happy to assist with and teach when and if the time arises.” Vahalia nodded in Ricard’s direction.

“Another discussion that may be better suited for a later time.” Gerald glanced between his son and Vahalia for a moment before drumming his fingers against the side of his glass. He turned to his wife, offering a quick nod before his gaze shifted to Valeria. “So, since we’ve been speaking of ‘hunting’. Ricard has been reaching out to a number of tutors on your behalf in recent weeks. I understand there’s some interest in studying the magic arts, yes?”

The additional information of Ricard hiring help for things only solidified something within Vahalia and she allowed a deep smirk to show through from beyond the transparency of her glass while she drank headily. As the attention was set to Valeria when the question was posed, Vahalia did cut a sharp glance towards Ricard before blinking and following suit with her attention as others did.

Valeria had watched the back and forth between her sister and Ricard until her attention drifted elsewhere, “Oh, there is. I’ve always been quite fond of it. And as it has been pointed out it would be nice to learn from multiple approaches depending on the subject.”

Voss had also been paying attention to Vahalia and Ricard for a moment. His left brow raised as he looked at Vahalia and just simply shook his head before finishing the rest of his drink. “During our travels she actually picked up a few books. It was hard to tear her away from having too many on the ship.”

“To be fair Voss not all of them were books on magic. Others were just new reading material. I really love books, forgive me.” Valeria said with a smile before occasionally looking at Ricard and then back at his parents.

“That would also explain the sudden interest in expanding the library.” Catherine turned her gaze on her son with a quirked eyebrow for a moment before her attention shifted back towards the door to the sitting room as it opened and one of the servants walked in, offering a quick nod. “...a conversation that can be continued at another time as it would appear that dinner is served.”

Gerald stood and Catherine quickly followed suit, taking his arm when it was offered.. “If you would all follow us, the dining hall is just down this hall.”

“Shall we?” Ricard quickly finished off what remained of his drink before standing, offering Valeria a hand to help her stand and then his arm before moving to follow after his parents.

Valeria took his hand and then his arm, moving along to follow. She tugged on Ricard a bit and would talk low enough for only the two to hear, “Do you think it’s going well?”

Feeling the tug at his arm, Ricard turned his head, brow quirked in curiosity. “Hm? Oh, well, my mother seems to be in a good enough mood and my father hasn’t thrown anyone out yet…so yes, I’d say thing are going well enough.” He reached over, laying his free hand over Valeria’s as he guided her down the hall. “You’re doing fine, and the evening is going fine. Just make it through this next little bit and we’ll all home free.” He flashed her a charming smile before straightening up once more as the doors to the dining hall were opened.

Voss stood up and offered his hand to Vahalia and then his arm. He followed behind Ricard and Valeria while his attention stayed focused on Valeria. He too spoke low enough for only him and Vahalia to hear, “Well, seems like there is some tension there or maybe you just enjoy making that man suffer. How do you think the parents are taking to your sister?”

A small smirk wore to Vahalia’s face as she walked with Voss, a casual stride if only to keep the conversation low, “I like pestering people sometimes.” Her eyes followed after Valeria and her smirk softened into a bit of a smile, “I think they’re interested. Catherine seems excited which is good.”

Voss chuckled, “Poor lad, though I wonder just how far can you pester him.” He smirked, “I’m glad this is going well for her. She seems to be enjoying herself too.”

Valeria spoke loud enough for Gerald and Catherine to hear, “I am curious as to what is for dinner. I am eager to try it as well.”

The Captain waited for the others to settle before pulling out an empty chair for Vahalia, “My lady, your seat.” She happened to take the seat without so much as a quip and Voss helped himself to the space next to her. Vahalia simply leaned into Voss and the two would converse between themselves about bits and baubs but also paying mind to the conversation at hand, Vahalia making sure to be present for Valeria’s sake as she talked up the Lady of the house.

“Curiosity is a good thing to have, my dear and you’ll have your answer soon enough.” Catherine turned and motioned to the same servant who had notified them in the parlor, and the man disappeared for several moments before returning with two plates in hand, two other individuals behind him, each carrying two plates themselves. Each servant moved to a separate couple, setting down one plate in front of each individual before stepping back and offering a quick bow, the first servant standing off to the side.

“The appetizer is butternut squash ravioli in rosemary browned butter. Please enjoy.” He offered a quick bow himself before moving against the back wall.

“Well then, no need to let it get cold.” Catherine lifted her fork and beside her Gerald did the same. “But as we’re eating, Valeria - have you given any thought to what you expect life to be like once you’ve married Ricard? Now this is me simply being curious.”

Her eyes were focused on the appetizer, “Oh this looks delicious, I can’t wait to try it.” She took a bite, carefully chewing and savoring the flavors before she swallowed, “I really like the rosemary browned butter.” She said as she wiped the corners of her mouth. “To be completely honest many ideas have come to mind, I would believe it to be like any traditional noble house living though I believe Ricard would be more loving, and supportive. He has already shown interest in my own wants, things I like and has gone above and beyond for me as it was stated. He is expanding the library, finding me tutors. I believe that I would be happy and comfortable, which comfort has been something I’ve been missing for quite some time, no offense to Vosseryn.”

Vahalia looked up form her food a moment as her quiet attention shifted between both Valeria and then Vosseryn. For a brief moment, her chew slowed to nearly a halt and she reached for her glass to take a sip, attention finally resting to the Captain as he spoke. “None taken Lady Valeria. It makes me happy to know you are getting the things you desired.” He said, there was a delightful smile on his face as he went back to eating.

Voss looked over at Vahalia before leaning over to whisper in her ear, “I can share more details later on that topic since you seem interested.”

"It won't be necessary. I've learned all I need to it seems." Vahalia took a moment to respond to Voss, once more finding a silence between food and drink, taking in the conversation around her.

Valeria looked towards Ricard, even reaching for his hand with another smile. He met her halfway, taking her hand in his, drawing it over and pressing a kiss to the back of it before settling both their hands back on the table once again.

“I don’t know what is to be expected having a life with you.” Valeria began. “We may have good days, and we may have bad days. What I do know is that I won’t leave your side. I will be there on your good days and hold you longer on the bad days. The troubles that we face, we will get through them together. I do know that I am ready to take that step and to make you a happy husband.” There was a smile and a touch of rose in her cheeks as she then looked towards her future in laws, “And I am excited to make you both grandparents.”

“In time.” Ricard gently squeezed Valeria’s hand, offering a nod to the servant who was gathering up the empty plate in front of him, knowing another would be along shortly with the salad. “There’s no rush to have children…”

“There is some rush, Ricard. You are thirty and not getting any younger.” Gerald leaned back in his chair, gently setting his fork down as he glanced across the table at his son. He ignored the narrowed eyes and turned his gaze to his future daughter-in-law instead. “But the topic of children does lead to an interesting question..and you may not have an answer for it, we certainly didn’t until after Ricard was born and even then it was ever changing, but what are you thoughts on how best to raise children since you seem quite eager to have them, Valeria?”

Valeria looked towards her future father-in-law, “I don’t think there is truly a best way to raise a child. It’s not like there is a handbook on such a topic. To me however, I feel keeping the child happy, healthy and being raised by both parents is best. I would love for other family members to be just as involved. I do love children though. I’ve had a fair share of experience playing with other children.”

“How do you think they should be raised and what was the difference from what you had thought on how to raise Ricard and how it actually happened? Do you think you accomplished your expectations?”

Her plate was empty as she looked down and slightly frowned, “Oh that was so good, I can’t believe I finished it so quickly.”

She waved the servant over so they could take her plate as she looked towards her future mother-in-law, “I also have a question to ask of you. What was it like when you first found out you were going to be a mother? What part was the scariest and which was the easiest?”

There was a brief flurry of activity as three servants again entered the room, each carrying two plates. A plate was set down carefully in front of each guest, one servants remaining a moment longer than the others. “This evenings salad consists of baby kale greens, Doman pear grapes, candied walnuts, gorgonzola, and a honey vinaigrette. Please enjoy.” With a quick bow he excused himself from the table.

With a low hum Catherine watched the servants work, considering the questions for a moment before turning her gaze towards Valeria. “The honest answer is that it was terrifying and exhilarating all in the same moment. The idea that I was to be responsible for another living being? For loving, raising, nurturing this little Hyur that would be part me…part Gerald-” the man in question chuckled, while Ricard took a long swig of his drink before motioning for a refill, “- was a daunting prospect, one that I could have had years to prepare for, rather than nine months and I still don’t think I would have been adequately prepared for.”

The servant was mid-refill when Ricard felt his mother’s narrowed gaze shift towards him and he turned to glance towards her, flashing a small grin her way.

She sighed in response. “I don’t know that anyone is fully prepared to be a parent, and those who say they are, well, I’d love to know their secrets. For the rest of us, we simply do the best we can with what we have and hope that things turn out for the best and the children we raise turn out to be quality individuals…don’t we, Ricard?”

“We do the best we can with what we have. At the very least I strive to make things interesting, mother.” He raised his glass towards his mother for a moment before taking another sip of his drink.

That earned him another narrowed gaze - there would likely be words later - before Catherine’s eyes shifted back between the Cress sisters once again. “What was your mother like? We’ve asked about everything from necklaces to thoughts on children, but we haven’t asked about your parents yet.”

Vahalia hadn’t touched the second portion of food that was set down before her, instead she opted to let her stomach settle with the slow influx of food it was receiving since she wasn’t used to large meals in one sitting, “Odessa was our mother, maiden name Blackheart before she married our father. Our line originates into Dalmasca name sakes mostly but eventually we’ve happened to pepper in a few bloodlines from Ishgard and Doma into the mix. Our mother’s sister married a Doman gentleman and they had a few children. Our father, Adrian Cress first had his company kicked off in Dalmasca before my sister and I came along so he was pretty established by then. His company and interests eventually moved to Ishgard at our grandmother’s behest just as the invasion of the Empire into Dalmascan regions kicked off.” The woman in red regarded Gerald and Catherine as she spoke, allowing Valeria time to eat if she wished and from under the thumb of a barrage of questioning, “Due to our grandmother’s heritage and connections here, being part Elezen herself, they established a Household here and some few years later Valeria’s cries came into the world and then mine – thus, here we are today. I’m afraid there is little excitement in regards to our family as you can imagine every family has their own drama or troubles; ours was no exception.”

Voss had skipped the second plate much like Vahalia. He took the moment to request a refill while he listened to her. A low hum could be heard before he went back to enjoying his drink and watching the others. Mostly looking at the facial expressions and overall tone of how the evening was going.

Valeria had smiled listening to Catherine’s answer and as her sister spoke, she took that moment to relax and focus a bit on her eating. She almost looked at her sister with a “thank you” look on her face. She only took a few bites of the second plate to be polite before pushing it aside, “Thank you. I don’t think I could eat anymore. I would like to keep room for dinner.”

Seeing that most were either done with the second part of the meal or had set it aside, Gerald nodded to one of the nearby servants who moved to collect the dishes. Once those were out of the way, the same three servants returned, once again, each holding two plates. This time the servant spoke as the plates were set down in front of each guest, with one additional servant following behind to provide new cutlery.

“Balsamic glazed lamb chops with a white bean puree. Enjoy.”

The servants gave a low bow before quietly exiting and leaving the group to their dinner.

Quiet for a moment, Gerald surveyed the scene as he picked up his fork and knife. “Well, I don’t think it would be fair if Valeria were the only one to be questioned the entire evening…Valeria, Vahalia - do either of you have questions for either myself, Catherine, or Ricard while we’re all at your disposal?”

A pair of honey-colored eyes pivoted in Gerald’s direction as Vahalia busied her fork along the plate, making very small cuts here and there and slow bites of her food where it seemed appropriate, “I have none. You and I along with Catherine had some plenty already. I was hoping the lovely groom and bride-to-be would be a little more chatty. Silence on my behalf was sheerly to give Valeria the right of honor to do much of the speaking since this evening is about her. I can only assume everyone here is excited for the ceremonies? Valeria could start planning any time now too.”

Valeria’s cheeks turned a shade of red, “Forgive me, I didn’t want to be so overwhelming especially since it is the first time meeting. There are so many questions I would love to ask. How did you two meet? Was your marriage also arranged? Do you have other kids?”

“Gerald and I are quite excited, yes. And from what I’ve seen I do believe this will be quite a good match for all involved. To answer your questions, how we met is not as exciting as one might want to believe. We simply ran across one another in the Jeweled Cozier and our families agreed that it would be a good match. And to answer your other question, Ricard is an only child, dear.” Catherine smiled before taking another bite of her food and then turning her attention to Valeria once more. “So, since your sister brought it up, when do you intend to begin planning in earnest, dear?”

“I would like to get ready shortly after dinner. However, before I begin planning I was wondering Catherine if maybe you and I can one day have a day to just us. Maybe a little bit of mother-in-law and daughter bonding? Maybe could even teach me a few things that will help me with the wedding or just things in general.” She looked towards Gerald, “I also have a few questions for you and would also like to have a day where it is just us as well.”

“It would bring me much joy to better know my future in-laws and maybe I can even learn more about the Blythe family.” A smile stayed on her face as she looked between them both and then looking back at Ricard, “Would you also like to help plan the wedding? It is just as much your day as it is mine.”

Glass halfway to his lips, Ricard paused, setting his drink down glancing between his parents and Valeria with a small nod. “I believe we can probably choose a day or two to spend together, Valeria…to begin planning and for you to get to know my parents a bit better, hm? One on one time with each of them may have to wait until after the ceremony itself.” He lifted his glass again, this time managing to get the glass to his lips and taking a long sip.

Voss chuckled, bringing his glass close to his lips, “Be careful. Once she begins planning things she tends to overdo it a little.” He took a sip of his drink and winked at Valeria.

“I only do it for things I am really excited about, besides Oricila loved the surprise for her birthday!” There was a little pout and her arms crossed for a second. She composed herself remembering that she still had to be a bit more proper than playful. She started eating, taking a few bites and swallowing before speaking, “This is really good. Is there a personal chef that makes all this or do you have family recipes that are taught to the cooks?”

It was Gerald who responded. “No family recipes, I’m afraid. The kitchen staff is very well trained. We’ll be sure to let them know that you approve.” He took a moment, glancing at the others at the table before waving over one of the servants. The man nodded before beginning to pick up plates off the table. “Now, this evening was meant as an opportunity for my wife and I to get to meet you, Valeria, and also for us all to be able to sit down and have a meal together before the hectic nature of planning a wedding in a fairly short amount of time takes over. Before dessert comes out and our evening comes to a close is there anything else anyone feels like they need to say?”

An odd look was given to the room from Vahalia but she remained quiet allowing the Lord and Lady of the house to delve into their business with their son and future daughter-in-law. She seemed to be done eating for the most part and smiled across to Gerald, “It’s been a lovely evening, I’m afraid I must decline desert, And be on my way, I have an early rise in the morning for work and I believe Valeria is in good, capable hands for the evening.” She stood, excusing herself and she gave Voss’s shoulder a small pat, a nod to the couple – newer and older and she made her way to the door and foyer where one of the gentleman were happy to assist her with her coat she had brought with her for the evening.

Voss had finished his drink and looked towards Valeria with a smile, “I too must decline the dessert, I do have a ship to get back to and probably work to get done.” He stood up bowing towards Gerald and Catherine, “A pleasure to meet you both.” He simply gave Ricard a nod before taking his leave.

Certainly Vahalia had her own way of doing things. The woman was practically a ghost the entire evening and much of her presence wasn’t needed, hardly a requirement but with any luck without Vahalia there longer, Valeria was likely to be able to stand on her own two feet with the questions and chatter – she had been doing just fine as it were.

Valeria watched her sister and close friend take their leave. A smile kept on her face as she looked towards her future-in-laws, “I don’t really think I have anything else to ask. This evening has been wonderful and I am glad I got to meet you both before the big day. Dessert does sound lovely.” She even started looking around, a bit more eager to see what the staff has created. She looked towards Ricard, “How will you be spending the rest of the evening?”

“Enjoying your presence and allowing you and my parents to continue to get to know one another until you’re ready to return home for the evening, at which time myself and one of the staff will escort you home.” Ricard offered a small smile as dessert, a honey yogurt panna cotta according to the servant who set down the dish, was provided to the four remaining guests. “But there is no rush, and no need for all topics to be covered in one evening. It was just the first meeting, after all.”

And so the evening came to a close, the elder Blythes enjoying quiet conversation and dessert with their future daughter-in-law and son before retiring for the evening and leaving Ricard to escort Valeria home.

It was an uneventful walk, escorted by one of the staff members and walking along well-lit and well-patrolled streets, they eventually came to a stop at the threshold of the Cress estate.

“And here is where I leave you for the evening, Valeria. Sweet dreams. We’ll speak again soon.” He lifted one of her hands, pressing a kiss to her knuckles and giving a quick wink before stepping back, staying long enough to see her inside the building, and only once she was safely inside did he turn to walk back the way he’d come ending what had been, overall a surprisingly smooth evening.

Collaborative writing with @umbral-flare-ffxiv & @valeria-cress

#Wicked Game #Vahalia #Valeria #Ricard #the perceptive smartass #the Cress Sisters

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superthatguy62 · 2 years

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Final Fantasy II: Memory of Heroes novel differences

I’ve done I and III (though the latter may need a touch-up later). Might as well do II as well.

Compared to the other two adaptations, II sticks more closely to the actual plot. There’s still some differences, though.

- The adaptation starts with Firion being resurrected, although he has a flashback to what happened: The party flees, Leon realizes that fleeing is hopeless and turns to fight, Firion joins him while Guy protects Maria. Firion falls just as Guy has his back slashed open and the last thing he hears is Leon giving a war cry, with the implication that Maria was attacked.

- We’re given a smidge of background on the orphans in this version: Rather than in Fynn proper, their hometown is a village on the border of it, they’re explicitly mentioned to have lost their parents in a fire, their father tells Firion to take care of his siblings, and the four apparently imagined themselves as rebels, which they reflected on with shame after they were forced out of their home.

- Firion is furious and wants revenge when he asks to join the rebels.

- The task of infiltrating Fynn is recognized by Firion as a test of their self-control. Maria almost tries asking a couple in a house about the man taken to the tavern, but Firion and Guy hold her back.

- While accompanying Firion’s party, Minwu mentors them in a number of ways. When Firion brings up Gordon, Minwu states that he needs the strength to stand on his own and that Firion’s party is more likely to help with that.

- Cid is a lot more jovial and less gruff here.

- Josef is far ruder in his initial interaction with the party. He doesn’t even tell them what’s wrong directly: He covertly shoves a map of the Mythril Mines at the party before forcing them out the door. It’s only after they go there that they start figuring out what’s happening.

- Also, Minwu believes Josef strong enough to have handled the imperial forces himself (of course, then they learn Nelly was kidnapped).

- The commander is far less impressive here: The text notes that the cavern is decorated in a ‘desperate’ attempt at making the cavern luxurious and Minwu makes a plan that catches the imperials completely off-guard.

- For the plan to destroy the Dreadnaught, Minwu gives Firion the leadership role.

- Upon learning that Borghen is overseeing development of the Dreadnaught, Firion considers straight up ending him right then and there, before deciding that, with how work on the Dreadnaught’s going, he’s harmless. Then they find the Dreadnaught done ahead of schedule and Firion curses that they should’ve done it.

- Firion actually fights the Dark Knight (who roasts him for his poor on-the-fly plan) where the first clue of his true identity pops up: The Dark Knight is described as having a unique, self-taught style (which he uses to disarm Firion quickly) and that it’s one Firion recognizes Leon.

- The Sunflame quest is totally different:

-- Gordon joins the party as they leave Fynn

-- The Sunflame takes the Goddess Bell’s place at the bottom of the Snow Cavern. Gordon already has Egil’s Torch

-- Gordon is captured by Borghen towards the end of the cavern. Borghen himself makes no mention of being executed by the Empror for failing, instead focusing on his glory and legacy as well as reclaiming his status as a general.

-- On a related note: the game is a bit ambiguous regarding Borghen’s feelings towards Leon the Dark Knight. Here, he’s explicitly dismissive of him.

-- Gordon ends up throwing the torch, causing Borghen to hesitate long enough for Maria and Josef to take him out (Firion catches the torch).

-- Borghen’s trap isn’t just a boulder, but to cause the cavern to collapse. Josef holds up the roof long enough for the others to escape, but ends up crushed afterwards. Gordon naturally feels guilty, but Firion does too for not killing Borghen back in Bafsk.

-- Nelly is portrayed as mature for her age, which shows in the scene where she tells the heroes to keep fighting, hiding her sorrow until her last line of asking them to do it for Josef.

-- Also, the woman outside of Josef’s house doesn’t exist in this version of the story.

- The scene where the party rides chocobos to chase after the Dreadnaught is the only time Guy’s affinity with animals comes up, I believe. The novel also states that Chocobos have a strong homing instinct, explaining why they flee as soon as the riders get off.

- While the game glosses over the realization for simple foreshadowing, here the party actually realizes that Leon is the Dark Knight when he confronts them in the engine room. As a result, the party considers whether or not Leon is brainwashed and Firion wonders if he’ll be able to fight him.

- The Lamia sequence is heavily toned down 0/10 worst adaptation ever: Hilda’s eccentric behavior is replaced with her acting shell-shocked and the seduction sequence doesn’t happen. Instead, when Firion tries to ask her to lead again, she dismisses his concerns as trivial before telling him to come closer.

- Firion actually does almost get killed by the Lamia before Maria and Guy barge in and the former shoots it, giving Firion a chance to finish it off. Maria then chastises Firion for being so careless.

- The party fights the Behemoth, Maria using magic while Firion and Guy use physical strength. When Guy gets knocked aside, Gordon takes the opportunity to stab it in the threat, with Firion adding his own sword to the forehead.

- The Emperor has a jester in this adaptation and he’s present for the arena sequence. When the Emperor turns out to be an illusion, it’s due to the Jester’s influence. On that note, the Dark Knight is absent in this sequence; the party falls for a trap door.

- The recapture of Fynn happens offscreen. We do get Hilda give a speech to the worried populace, though.

- I neglected to mention this earlier, as you may have noticed, but Leila has the dubious honor of being the only guest party member to not appear in this adaptation 0/10 worst adaptation ever. She’s replaced in the Mysidian Tower trip by a generic male captain and she’s not present for the earlier shenanigans like the Lamia. This has the added effect of making Gordon the only guest (not counting the replacement captain whose fate after Ricard leaves is ambiguous) to survive to the end of the story.

- Ricard’s a bit more playful here, at least until he learns that the Dragoons were wiped out by the Empire from the captain. The revelation that they were all poisoned, and he was stuck in Leviathan, causing him to lose it and become desperate to escape. In the end, the group use gunpowder to cause Leviathan to spit them back out.

- The four crystals in Ultima’s chamber in the Mysidian Tower are woven into the plot: Namely, they’re II’s equivalent of the elemental crystals (which the game itself hints at) much like I and III. While they aren’t explicitly called such, the crystals stressing that darkness is spreading over the world, that the world cannot exist without Light and telling the Warriors to “bring Light to all” along with blessing them with their powers and the four feeling Light within them..., the four are made Warriors of Light in all but name.

- Deist happens off-screen. Ricard leaves the group after the Crystals’ blessing to see Deist for himself and returns with the Wyvern. He mentions Elina and Kain as he explains what he found at Deist.

- The Emperor initially uses another illusion on the throne in the Cyclone, but this time Maria grows wise and snipes the jester making the illusions. The Emperor himself then appears behind the party.

- The Emperor uses explosive and, interestingly, light magic. Firion is forced to shield Maria to give her a chance to cast Ultima, giving Ricard a chance to leap at the Emperor. Emperor parries the leap, but his scepter gets destroyed, which lets Firion and Guy end the battle.

- Also a neat little detail: The Emperor is shocked to see one of the Dragoons alive.

- Unlike the game, Firion and co. don’t forget about the Dark Knight and even note his odd absence. Then the news comes...

- Cid is never explicitly said to die, although with the shape he’s in, it’s probably pretty obvious.

- I made a post about Leon’s speech earlier. The general gist is that the speech is expanded, with Leon feeling that the only way to get out of the cycle of oppression is to stand at the apex of power. Firion notes that Leon used to believe that power should be to protect the weak and Leon claims to have discovered the limits of that approach.

- The Emperor emerges from Leon’s shadow (It’s symbolic). The novel also gives something of an explanation for Leon losing his helmet: The Emperor shatters it when he whacks him on the head. Interestingly, while the “there’s only room for one Emperor” line is there, the part about wanting to destroy everything isn’t.

- Ricard implores Leon to reconsider his path and transfers his Light over to him. The Light ends up being a factor in Leon turning face.

- The Jade Passage and most of Pandemonium is skipped: Leon aims the airship down what may as well be the passage and guns the engine. He winds up crashing the airship into Pandemonium’s top floor, with it stopping in the throne room.

- While I haven’t mentioned it until now, Hell in this adaptation is consistently referred to as “The Underworld”. Not sure why, as the characters say stuff like “Damn” elsewhere.

- The Emperor actually calls out Leon for siding with the heroes after just recently trying to kill them. Leon shoots back that he’ll do anything to protect the world from the Emperor.

- As the Emperor is on the verge of losing, he has a breakdown only to save face when he notices the Warriors’ light. The party reaffirms that they’re not just doing it because it’s their job to stop the darkness, but that they’re doing it for all those who have died and for those who are left to have a better future, etc.

- While Maria tries to stop Leon from leaving, Firion has the feeling that they’ll see him again someday. Leon himself feels a similar way, but blames it on the light Ricard passed on to him before leaving on his own adventure.

- BONUS: The ending of the FFI adaptation implies that the Warriors of Light reincarnate across all three stories. This would generally mean

Firion = Setro (is the leader, although with growing pains and self-doubt, and is very hot-blooded here. Also uses himself as a human shield at one point like Setro and Luneth)

Maria = Flora (Maria does get tutored by Minwu, which is a factor in her wielding Ultima, a spell classified as White Magic in FFII)

Guy = Teol (Arguably the weakest connection of the four; Guy uses his physical strength leaving Maria as the sole magic user, and him being good with animals is only mentioned briefly. Him being quiet and dependable is probably the only consistency between the two)

Ricard/Leon = Zauver (A bit hard to spot given that both only appear towards the end of the story, but Ricard is portrayed in a more playful nature and, like Minwu and Gordon, they both act as the number 2 to Firion. Leon also acts a bit more rational than Firion towards the end of the story (though that’s partially because he actually knows where Pandemonium is rather than being fooled by the projection) and he pilots the airship to the underworld. That said, the mention of Ricard’s Light influencing Leon makes it very obvious as well).

#Final Fantasy #Memory of Heroes #Final Fantasy II #Final Fantasy 2 #FFII #FF2 #Firion #Maria #Guy #Leon #Minwu #Gordon #Josef #Ricard #The Emperor #Emperor Mateus #Emperor Palamecia

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