My Dear General Alphinaud,

As we’ve entered the Seventh Astral Era, I’ve watched you.

Charging ahead, demanding Eoreza acknowledge you,
Commanding Crystal Braves to follow you,
The Scions moving along with you,
You’re so busy, and troubled,
Yet the weight hasn’t burdened you.

Brave in battle I may be, but you?
A leader, full and true.

I’ve watched you. And I’ve wondered too.
Would I, if I could,
Dip my arms under yours,
And embrace you.

Would I feel warmth escape you?
Or would the cold finally leave you?

Would stiff joints and bone jab out from you?
Or lean and soft muscle define you?

Were I to lift you up, I doubt I’d find you light and frail...
And yet, I also doubt density describes you.

Could I tell if you remained pure in soul and body...
Or has the long fight sullied and battered you?

If I kissed the crown of your soft white hair…
And felt the give of your heavy blue uniform….
Well… Have you been taking care of you?
Or would it be my turn to scold you?

The more I stand beside you,
Fight with you,
Heal you,
Wonder about you...
The more I wish to know about you.
And the closer I wish to be with you.

So... Dinner sometime?
(If not, for the love of Hydaelyn, I made way too much ratatouille. Please take some.)

Your dear Warrior of Light,
Sumiko Sakuragi

(Gilgamesh, Noble Barding)