2nd of September, M.E. 754
Aleya tried to return to work today. She insisted upon it, stating that I would soon tire of her if she were absent for continued bouts of illness or injury. She would hear nothing to the contrary. I took it quite easy on her, however. I was loath to put a woman to work while her arm was still nestled in a sling, and the stitches at her hairline still noticeable.
Noct has received his father's permission to find work. Noct craves a civilian's life, and it appears his father does not seem to mind him dabbling in such. He approved, but requested that Noctis always have a guard of some kind with him at all times. Noct objected, but it was a finality. His guards may be plainly clad, and act as a normal patron, but they must be present and alert at all times. Of course, this also means extensive background checks of the various businesses and owners of where he may apply. I can see long evenings in my future.
Speaking of Noct, Gladio and I had plans for special training with him today. However, he decided to skip out when other offerings were made by his young friend, Prompto. I volunteered to train with Gladio without Noct, but he informed me that the he had recently met the South District Governor's niece, and would be otherwise preoccupied.
I'm not sure what made me angrier—that he was leaving me in the lurches for a date, or the fact that it wasn't with Aleya. Were they not dating? How could he be so nonchalant about his relationship with her? He scarcely even inquired of her health after the accident. She is a woman that deserves respect, consideration, and complete devotion. I'm not sure whether I should tell her or not. If I tell her, it could harm her. On the other hand, if I don't, that could cause injury as well. Of note, this is Gladio. He's rarely serious about any woman, which is why the meet-up with Governor Incent's niece is most likely not serious. And also why he is probably not serious about Aleya, either.
Infuriating. Intolerable.
Am I the only one who has any sense of responsibility?
5th of September, M.E. 754
I have never been so incensed. I've also never in my life met a soldier with so little to do. Does this Tredd Furia take his responsibilities so lightly that he feels it acceptable to shirk them on a regular basis? I've never seen the man do battle, and neither have I seen him stand at attention for simple guard duty. But he seems to have set quite the target upon Aleya. He seems to have no end of time for her.
When we have no meetings requiring our attention, she prefers her lunch out-of-doors. She usually sets herself to a good Sania Yeagre book and a boxed lunch of some kind. It occurred to me today that she might recently have been having difficulty managing her lunch with her wrist still on the mend, and so I decided to go check on her.
I spotted him from halfway across the courtyard. She was minding her own business, trying—and failing, as I suspected—to open her lunch with one hand. As I was dwelling on my dismay upon her probably not eating lunch over the last several days due to not asking for help, he caught my eye. There he was, rounding the fountain from behind her; Lurking in on her as if her were some sort of flexitusk after unsuspecting prey.
It's my duty to look after her, so I naturally got there as fast as I could. Still, I could see that he startled her. She stood up so quickly, she tripped over the fountain step. Her lunch wound up in the water, and Furia used it as an excuse to lay his hands on her—feigning assistance. Just the thought of the scene makes my blood burn, to this very moment! Does he not understand his attentions are unwanted? He certainly has no right to touch her—especially as she was perfectly stable upon her feet and in no danger of injuring herself whatsoever.
What's worse, when she pulled away, he grabbed her injured arm. I could hear her yelp echo off the stone edifices. I can't remember exactly what I did—however, I do remember laying my hand on his shoulder and pulling him away. Keen warrior that he undoubtedly is, he almost reciprocated with equal aggression. I'm sure upon realizing who I was, he swiftly changed his mind. All the best that he thought better than to attack me. He would have regretted it.
He quickly excused himself—all bravado, all bluster—and it was left to me to look over her arm. After all the fuss of her ruined meal, I made her something quick in the kitchens, although she constantly told me I didn't have to trouble myself.
Looking back, however, if I hadn't interrupted, she may have done quite well for herself. I did not envy Furia the look of anger she cast upon him. Despicable man that he is, I'd like to see her unleash her fury on him, just once.
I'm sure it would be quite the show.
9th of September, M.E. 754
It hasn't been the most pleasant of days. In fact, it is with some difficulty that I am able to write at all. I'm afraid I've broken my wrist. Such is the price I pay for being momentarily distracted. I was sparring with the Marshal—nearly done with my lesson—when Gladio and Aleya entered, together. I'm not certain why I found myself so agitated at this. I simply feel neither of them should allow themselves to be so distracted. I find it an unwise idea that the two of them should see each other so frequently. They're bound for trouble. Aleya will eventually realize she's basically courting her brother, and will find herself repelled. Gladio will continue his flirtatious advances until he finds someone more intriguing, and both of them will be upset. Work will suffer. Everyone will be forced to console them when things go awry and become awkward.
However, that's hardly the point of this entry, and I shan't dwell on it any longer. I noticed them enter, and though I was irked by seeing the two together, I tried my best to focus on what I was doing. Then I heard her laugh. It was melodic and completely uninhibited, a laugh that declared comfort and excitement all at once. She certainly was enjoying his company. Something about that laugh irritated me so adversely that I glanced their direction to see what could possibly make them so cheerful. It was at that moment that the Marshal swung and made contact with my arm, fracturing it in two places.
Noct and Aleya have been humming about me all day, trying to care for my needs. When Noct had to leave for combat lessons, Aleya took over. I ate some sort of Galadhian stew which I must confess was so wonderful I am racking my brain on how to recreate it. It was very rustic and simply made, but fabulously tasty.
She's always worked hard. However, looking after me in addition to her other duties has tired her out. She's fallen asleep. I can hear her breathing from here.
If it's any consolation at all, my injury has taken her mind away from Gladio. It's for the best. I could never see a future for the two of them.
Perhaps I'm being spiteful. I suppose pain could cause such an effect.
Galahdian Veggie Medley Stew?
Leiden Potato Funguar Sheep Milk Various Vegetables
19th of September, M.E. 754
It feels splendid to write without difficulty again. It was a nasty break, and for a while I wondered if all those high-priced remedies and potions were working as intended. However, I'm well on the mend.
Just in time, it seems. Our Prince has taken on a job at a sushi restaurant (I'll need to practice up on how to do appropriate sashimi so I may teach him later. For that, I'll need full use of this confounded arm.)
Furthermore, the Empire is growing more restless, and the Glaive have been deployed to an area near Leide. I hear the fighting has grown quite intense.
His Majesty summoned me to a personal audience with him today. He was checking up on my progress in studying the world without our magical gates. He wishes me to make it a priority. I doubt my other duties will ease. I have already been consumed with learning about the breadth and depth of Eos.
Also, I've recently opted for an additional foreign language of sorts. I've decided to broaden my vocabulary on the ancient languages of the Astrals. So much of our history is taken from the ancient tomes, and it's always best to go directly to the source if you wish to learn of accurate history. I've a feeling the waters have become a bit murky after being translated and re-translated through each successive generation. It may be just a hobby, but I feel it will be useful. Aleya's the expert on the Ancient Tongue. I'm sure she wouldn't mind assisting. I have it on good authority that she is an excellent tutor.
It falls upon me to learn as much as possible. One day Noct shall rule the world. In which case, he should know everything about it; Or, at the very least, have an advisor who does.
20th of September, M.E. 754
I offered to go by to pick up His Highness' uniform today, but it's already been done. Furthermore, all of his shirts have been neatly pressed and all imperfections mended. Aleya certainly doesn't shy away from initiative.
21st of September, M.E. 754
Aleya told me she'd require coffee in exchange for lessons. I'm sure she meant it in jest, but I took her by a coffee shop, regardless. It was delightful. We nearly forgot to study.
On our way back, I wished to introduce her to the Galadhian gentleman who helped me find her gift only a month earlier. He recognized me immediately. He thanked me for keeping my word—apparently he's had no further incidents with the authorities. He and Aleya got along famously; they almost looked as if they had known each other their whole lives. It meant a great deal to her that I helped one of her fellow countrymen. I simply did as any man should.
She looked to be at home speaking with him. It did something for her. I can't explain it. She's always appeared to be somewhat guarded around me, but this is the first time I've ever seen her truly let that guard down. It was pleasant to watch her simply enjoy a conversation without fear of reputation, scorn, or criticism. I've never seen her smile so much.
Perhaps we should visit the café more often.
23rd of September, M.E. 754
Noctis is doing very well in his current occupation and with his studies of higher learning. Dare I dream that he's actually maturing into a future king? I suppose I always knew he would. I always had faith he would become an astonishing ruler. Now that the day is dawning, I confess it's a bit bittersweet. I honestly feel as if he's on the precipice of choice. Whether he'll leap or run—I've every confidence he'll leap. And yet I also feel he may hesitate, considering an alternate path. There are brief shining moments where I stand in awe of him. And there are others in which I am beyond my limits to deal with him.
Confusing, to say the least, and I've no notion that it will be less so in the coming days.
He still resents his position; He craves independence. However, he's never once shirked his responsibility or dared speak directly of his discontent. He's an odd mix of man and child, commoner and King.
On to less perplexing matters, though equally vexing. Aleya called in today; There was a personal emergency of some kind, though she wouldn't elaborate. I doubt she'll be any more transparent tomorrow. As I've said before, she's guarded around me.
Headache. Think I'll take something for it and turn in early.
24th of September, M.E. 754
Aleya's asked for a day off tomorrow. She says it's personal, but she looks beyond sullen. I've never seen her so dejected. If she won't tell me, perhaps I can hear the details from Gladio. The two are close, after all.
It creates a sense of irony to know that I am the one that suggested Gladio go with her to Noct's apartment on that fateful errand. I only meant to protect her. Had I only cleared my schedule and gone along with her that day, perhaps she'd be confiding in me.
Not that I am saying in any way that I am jealous of their relationship. No, that wouldn't do at all. I'm simply stating that if we are to work closely together, we must trust in each other. We should look after the other, and be their primary support. It's not jealousy. It's partnership.
However, as I've said, I still don't think fondly of them seeing each other. I can foresee the day that she runs into my office in hysterics after she finds Gladio with the Parishioner's daughter, or some such. I don't need glasses to see that one coming.
25th of September, M.E. 754
I wish I had Aleya with me today. It's been the first day I had to work alone in quite a while. The schedule is more demanding than I ever recall—perhaps I've grown too accustomed to additional support. Noct was being difficult. I went by his lodgings to deliver a report. Much to my chagrin, I realized he has done very little to care for himself as of late. The balcony door was left open—a dire security issue. Dishes were unwashed, and it looked like he had no grocery items, either, save for a few boxes of Cup Noodles.
It took me most of the night to tidy up, and when Noct arrived, he acted truly displeased to see me. It's obvious he views me as a guardian rather than a friend. We argued.
It distresses me deeply. I spent a long while in the car, alone, trying to collect my thoughts; Trying to remember to be patient. After all, I understand his feelings on the matter. He must be having a hard time accepting his responsibilities. His father's health is deteriorating, after all. He knows his ascension may be much sooner than expected. What young man desires to carry the weight that he will soon be bridled with?
I can scarcely think about the weight that I've been bridled with, and I am no king.
26th of September, M.E. 754
My assistant has applied for military training with the Crownsguard. She sprung the news on me as she walked in the door this morning. I was busy reading an article about an upsurge of violence in Insomnia—a woman was attacked a few days earlier near the apartment where Aleya resides. That was concerning enough, but for her to waltz in and announce she's volunteering to fight and sling weapons was more so. I tried my best to talk her out of it. While she may be many things, I do not see her as a warrior.
I argued that there would never be a need for her engage in combat. I warned her there would be injuries. Her body would be pushed beyond her limit. She'll be sick, and exhausted. Honestly, I'm loath to see her enlist. The thought of her being beaten, sworn at, and fatigued to the point of nausea is frightfully upsetting. Still, I can't seem to talk her out of it.
I figured this woman who got attacked—I couldn't read all the details of who she was due to the unceremonious interruption of my breakfast—might have had something to do with Aleya's insistence to learn combat. However, she assures me that her top priority is to the Crown and to me. She states she would never be able to protect Noctis in her current state, nor could she serve as a combat aide to me should I need her. She insists she's better able to serve both myself and The Prince should she enroll. Though she has always been honest, and I think she clearly sees the benefit of being able to fight should I or Noctis need her, something tells me there is more to her story. She has been quiet over the last few weeks; slightly withdrawn. I wondered I had done something to offend her (though she seems to be a bit more amiable away from Citadel grounds).
She assures me she holds me in the highest regard.
I've never been fond of ambiguity. And she may be the most ambiguous person I've ever known.