BEWITCHING FLOWER.

camilla of fire emblem affiliated with koi no yokan

[drakanthine]

tactiquess‌.

     “I understand.” She understood so well. Robin took a seat with the other woman with ease, but she too felt tugs in her heart thinking of home, missing people like Lissa and Maribelle, Chrom and Lucina. Her goodbye was… well it had seemed a little permanent too. She died, so it seemed almost ineffective to let herself feel longing, yet… here she was, and she hadn’t been dead anyway, not completely.

     “I’m happy to lend my ear, I understand how you feel. And while we are here, it seems the best thing for us all to establish bonds here, find people to love and care for.” It could be troublesome, if they ever were to return back home, but it was the only way to survive while they were there.

          “I’m glad to hear that someone else understands. I’d be interested to hear your own story, if you’re comfortable enough to tell it. I suppose that’s what the goal of this project is, isn’t it?” Camilla pressed a finger delicately to her own lips as she thought for a moment.

          “Yes, it seems their goal is to encourage bonds between us. I miss my family dearly... but I was lucky enough to have happiness with them before I arrived here. And it would be a waste to let this opportunity pass me by.” As a child, Camilla’s relationship with her family was a complicated and strained one. After fighting for the meaningful and precious bonds she shared with her siblings, she could only be grateful that things had turned out the way they did back in Nohr — but she knew this was not the case for everyone, and the princess found herself endlessly curious about this woman’s history.

[drakanthine]

cantilenas‌.

The sound of blades shaving off surrounded the pair, the sound of couples, families, friends skating around the them and on the perimeter of the rink. Though the temperature was quite cold, Dorothea always found it warming to be in enjoyable company. Not to mention, these skates were quite heavy.

❛ Is it really? I don’t think I’d mind making a habit of it. These shoes are quite stylish, don’t you think? ❜

She flashed the other her trademark smile as they made another loop around the rink. It surprised Dorothea just how quickly the lady other seem to pick up on her talents – though, to be fair, she didn’t think she hid them quite as well.

❛ Actually, I am. I’m the former Diva of my opera house back home, though you flatter me! I’m Dorothea, it’s lovely to meet you. Are you from around here? ❜

          “Well, I’d certainly say so! Just look around — plenty of people seem like beginners upon the ice, not that there’s anything wrong with that. What’s important is that everyone is having fun.” Camilla acknowledged a happiness she hadn’t expected to find here, enjoying the sense of community she felt with the others who were partaking in the festivities.

         “A former diva? I feel the role fits you quite well, Dorothea. I’m not from around here, but I’ve attended many performances back home. A sister of mine is a songstress herself. So you’ll have to tell me all about your experiences.”

           Camilla may not have lived in Koi very long, but she found it endlessly fascinating to learn about the lives of others who’d found themselves here as well. And as they continued to skate around the rink and admire the scenery, laughter echoing all around, she decided that the people she’d met made it so much more bearable to be far from home. “Are you planning to find somewhere to perform here as well?”

[drakanthine]

airabesque‌.

     “Camilla… what a beautiful name, like you.” Olivia spoke in a reverie, her words soft and warm, meant just for the woman in front of her. That is, if she wasn’t trying to contain those last two words, far too bold for Olivia to actually speak. Yet she did. “Uh, I mean, um…” she stammered for a moment, looking down at her feet, swallowing an imaginary lump in her throat, face flushed rosy with her embarrassment. She raised her gaze back up, knowing it would be impolite to carry on without doing so, but her cheeks remained dusted with that rosy hue.

     “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Camilla.” Her words were still soft and inviting, but tentative. She was still reserved, still not… good enough at this. “It’s true, I am a touch wary given the circumstances,” that was an understatement, “but I really do desire to explore. To meet kind people, just as you are.” And in contrast to that sheepish, embarrassed girl from moments ago, Olivia lit up, a glimmer shining in her eyes, mouth curved into a smile. Camilla truly was so gracious and kind, and the offering of a calm tea house sounded… perfect.

     “I would love to attend Jazzmine Societea with you. I’d read about some of the different cafes and restaurants, but I didn’t think I’d get that far yet.” A hint of that sheepishness remained, but that hint of bold struck her too. Olivia offered Camilla her hand, the tiniest cant of her head, rose locks bouncing. “Would you lead the way there? Maybe we’ll happen across other places to visit on our journey.”

          “Oh, you’re too sweet to me. But kind words mean so much coming from someone as beautiful as you.” Camilla recognized but avoided commenting on the brief stammer in the other woman’s words — as adorable as it was, Camilla wasn’t interested in saying anything that might embarrass her further. She cared far more for Olivia’s comfort than she did for the entertainment she may gain from teasing her. Although Camilla liked to get people flustered, it was important to establish a relationship first, no?

          “Well, let’s make sure to do just that, Olivia — explore this place, and perhaps even make a home out of it, if we can.” And the princess had faith that they could. She missed her family, but there existed a chance they’d appear here one day as well. With no apparent way out, she would have to accept the circumstances and make the most of them. If she continued to meet people as lovely and kind as Olivia, she knew it was more than possible. “Let’s be on our way, then.”

          She responded quickly to Olivia’s offered hand by taking it within her own, giving it a gentle but reassuring squeeze before taking the first steps to lead their way. Their walk through the Chamomile District was pleasant, the fresh air and cool breeze serving as perfect complements to the lush decorations along the streets as they admired the scenery and took note of locations they might visit in the future. It wasn’t long before they arrived at Jazzmine Societea just on the corner of the main canal, soft music from inside inviting them in. Camilla opened the front door, gesturing for Olivia to enter first. “It looks like we arrived just in time for tonight’s music. Shall we?”

[dyinglikeicarus]

Mucha-references Camilla warm up doodles

[drakanthine]

tactiquess‌.

     “Miss?” There was another woman outside the cafe Robin had just left, and she looked concerned. It wasn’t like something tragic had happened, but simply as if something was on her mind. It made Robin curious. She was not always the deftest in handling emotions, but she was certainly able. The woman was beautiful, even with hints of sorrow tugging at her features, and Robin wanted to know why such sadness even crept in. “Are you alright? I just picked up tea, and I’d be happy to sit and listen if you need someone to talk to.” // @drakanthine​

          Camilla had been caught off guard by the adorable collection of sweets in the café window. The pastries reminder her of Elise, of the fact that she’d always wanted to provide such delicacies to her youngest sibling even if war made it far from possible back home. Her heart tightened in her chest as she gazed in, but a concerned stranger’s voice called her thoughts back to the present. She hadn’t expected so much compassion as a result of her longing for home.

           “It’s so sweet of you to offer your ear.” Camilla looked to the other woman with an appreciative smile, her features softening from the concerned expression they’d previously held. 

          “I’m alright, darling. I suppose I’m just missing home — my dear little sister more specifically. But I know I’m not the only one. Won’t you take a seat?” She gestured across the small table she was seated at outside the café. Camilla didn’t mind the company of a friendly stranger — and perhaps the woman herself needed someone to talk to as well.

[drakanthine]

airabesque.

         “Oh Lady Camilla…” Olivia’s voice was quiet as a mouse, as she peered at the gift that Camilla had presented her with. She had not expected anything at all, finding herself quite content just to be graced with Camilla’s presence, but the gift was a welcome surprise. Her cheeks had flushed pink, and for a moment she thought to decline, before remembering that Camilla was someone who would put care and thought into her gifts. She would not gift something to Olivia had she not wanted to, and to deny the gift would be more of a slight or insult than to happily accept.

     She ran a finger gingerly over one of the earrings, admired the way the shone in the light. “They’re so beautiful. Thank you, Camilla, I love them. Would… you help me put them in?”

          “Of course, darling. I’d love to help you put them in.” She turned the box back towards herself, removing both earrings to place them gently within Olivia’s pierced ears, taking care not to prod or poke at her skin. They looked just as beautiful as she’d imagined, if not more, dangling beside Olivia’s face and within her pink curls. Camilla smiled warmly at the thought that Olivia truly loved her gift.

          “There you go. Ah, they’re just adorable.” Pulling out a small compact mirror she carried on her person, Camilla turned it towards the other woman, allowing her to gaze at her own reflection. “They suit your complexion so well, don’t you agree?”

[drakanthine]

sweetest sister, can you explain to me what deez nuts are?

         “A fascinating question, my dear. Before we discuss its answer, would you mind pointing me in the direction of those who introduced you to the term?”

[drakanthine]

         Having arrived to browse the clothing selection at Snapdragon Retailer, Camilla’s attention was drawn towards a young woman, looking indecisively in one of the store’s mirrors as she held a garment up in front of her. Shopping for suitable clothing could be quite difficult — Camilla was certainly no stranger to that fact. Perhaps she just needed a bit of assurance that her selection would be flattering before finding the confidence to try it on? Camilla closed the distance between them, gesturing at the other woman’s reflection in the mirror with approval. “Oh, that dress would look just darling on you, don’t you think?” 

          “It’s quite strange shopping for clothing with these modern fashion trends. They’re unlike anything I’ve seen before. But with so many people from different worlds convening here, I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s a bit overwhelmed.”

@sorcelleried​​ ♡ (sc)

[drakanthine]

what’s your social link?

the empress

“The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. Celebrate life's grandeur... its brilliance... its magnificence...” The Empress represents maternity, prosperity, creativity, sexuality, abundance, fertility and comfort which are most often observed in maintaining peace. It often belongs to people of authority or wise and motherly figures.

[nenekantoku]

it’s ya girl

[drakanthine]

having a burst of muse at the moment, so here’s another starter call! please like this post for something from camilla, i’ll cap at three to start and length will vary. ♡

[drakanthine]

cantilenas‌.

With just the tiniest bit of luck, Dorothea managed to find her footing and balance easily. Who knew that moving on ice with sharp knives would come so easily? Of course, she had her experience with the opera to thank – she wouldn’t be the diva for nothing. She started slowly at first, like a song with a leisurely tempo, only increasing in speed when she felt comfortable enough to do so. 

After settling on a comfortable pace, Dorothea only slowed down for the pretty woman who called out to her. To be completely honest, the purple hair had caught her eye some time ago.

She brought her hand up to her mouth in a giggle.

❛ Well, thank you! Actually, it’s my first time ice skating, but I’m grateful that it’s seemed like I’ve skated before. Is it your first time as well? ❜

          To skate with such skill so quickly was greatly impressive — Camilla had done so as well, but she’d had a bit of experience. She liked to think she was a graceful woman, but it was no secret that she was a bit uneasy on the ice herself. “Your very first time? That’s quite surprising. I’ve skated here and there in my past, but never made a habit of it.”

          “The way you’ve picked it up so quickly and with so much grace, you must be a performer of some sort, no? You certainly have the look for it.” Camilla’s compliment was mild, but she’d noticed the woman’s beauty from the outset. Even if this was her first time on the ice, Camilla found herself captivated. And when the princess appreciated something or someone aesthetically, she just couldn’t help herself from remarking on it. “My name is Camilla, by the way — I’d love to have yours.”

[drakanthine]

vulignis‌.

     Human. It was something she wasn’t, and she had come to accept that, at least a little. That didn’t mean she didn’t still partake in watching them, trying to understand them, to feel just a little more of what they felt. Her short time here had her witness just what this city was about… understanding relationships, emotions, just as she sought to. She wasn’t partnered with anyone, there was too much temptation for her. She’d fostered so much self control, but even a moment of weakness… no matter, that didn’t matter in the here and now. She was content, even perhaps echoing some of the exuberance she saw in the other patrons of the ice rink, as she watched them skate with grace, or with clumsy excitement.

     She wasn’t alone either. Another woman beside her broke the silence of the two of them just watching as others enjoyed the festivities. Ahri turned her gaze towards her, and stunning was she reflecting that same joyous nature, the raw emotion of it all was enticing to Ahri. Her gold gaze glimmered as she regarded the woman, her snow white tails curling and bobbing as she nodded, before speaking with soft excitement, her words spun with charm both hers, and what she felt from those skating about.

     “I’ve never been able to partake in such a sport, not with such blades in the very least… I’ve certainly glided across ice in the chill of winter, but it wasn’t for such a joyous occasion.” It was the thrill of the hunt in winter, not the spins or skates that the people before them exhibited. “But it is beautiful to watch, especially set against the backdrop of the other attractions as you’ve noted.” Ahri wasn’t sure if she wanted to learn, or if she was simply content to watch. 

     “Do you desire to get out on the ice then, if it is a fond memory of yours?” 

          “I can’t deny it — I am drawn to the ice.” What little experience Camilla had with skating upon frozen waters she’d earned with her siblings by her side, and she longed to see them again… but perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to revisit those cherished memories in Koi. And doing so with the company of a lovely stranger only served to sweeten the deal for the princess. “Although I would prefer it with my family by my side, I won’t deny myself the pleasure of partaking.”

           The same could be said for most activities Camilla had taken part in since arriving in Koi. The winter festivities and joy would surely be even more charming if her cherished siblings could be here as well — but sulking in her room awaiting their arrival would be no way to live.

          “Would you be interested in joining me? You said yourself that you’ve never set out on the ice for sport.” The princess offered a smile to the stranger along with her offer, hoping she’d be able to forge a warm connection during this joyous season. Camilla pondered the woman’s origins — she wouldn’t necessarily poke and prod for details, but she was surely curious about everyone she’d met in this world. How fortunate and fascinating it was that this experience would allow her to befriend people from near and far.

          “To feel the wind in my hair as I skate — I suppose it’s the closest I’ll get to the feeling of soaring through the air upon a wyvern’s back while I’m here. I won’t push you to join, but your company would surely be welcomed. And I’d be glad to teach you what I know.”

[drakanthine]

airabesque‌.

      Deep breaths, Olivia! She reminded herself over and over again. She had been away from home before, she knew how to do this. But it was so different here, and she didn’t know anyone. She just had to calm her nerves, look for a friendly face, then everything would be okay, right? She didn’t recognize anyone though, not the people she saw in her short trek from her home. This garden was soothing, and she didn’t want to leave it, not yet. Or maybe she’d even find an excuse to return in?

     No, that simply wouldn’t do. She had grown so much in the past few years, fostered her confidence just as Maribelle chided her to do, and worked to believe in herself. She possessed enough courage to explore, she just wanted to feel safer. Then she could venture away from the floral fragrances and shrine to natures beauty that helped her feel so at home among her internal chaos.

     There to gently drag her from her own depths was a hand laid soft upon her shoulder. She didn’t even panic, just held her guard until she raised her gaze to the woman who had approached. 

     Oh. She was beautiful. She looked calm and kind, and radiated this aura about her that Olivia found drawing herself in. She spoke softly, and her voice too… it was so melodic… like Olivia was all she was concerned with in that moment. It took her a moment to remember to respond, so stunned by the true beauty that seemed to radiate from inside and out of the other woman.

     “Oh um… yes. I am. I mean… yes, I am new here, I only arrived today, and it seems like such a beautiful place, but I am rather overwhelmed. So… I would love your company. I don’t want to just become a homebody and not experience anything.” There was a subtle resolve in her cerise gaze as she held the other woman’s. “My name is Olivia, by the way, I figure introductions might be necessary.” She laughed, and there was a hint of nerves, but it was a truly melodic little bubble of laughter beneath that.

           As the woman fumbled around with her words, it became even clearer to Camilla that these circumstances were putting her under stress. Camilla’s caring demeanor dictated that she do whatever possible to abate those feelings in the other woman, Olivia, as she’d finally managed to utter. The princess provided a warmth and comfort to many throughout her life, and that fact wouldn’t change simply because she’d been brought into this strange new environment. “You’re quite right about introductions, Olivia. Where are my manners? Please, call me Camilla.”

          “It’s only natural to worry a little bit in this situation. Sometimes in precarious circumstances it’s the very thing that keeps you safe, in fact.” She smiled softly as she spoke, hoping to reassure and calm Olivia as much as she possibly could. How very admirable it was that the woman was so determined not to lock herself indoors that she’d thrown herself headfirst into this environment while knowing so little about it. Camilla’s hand rose to gently meet her own cheek as she offered the due praise, holding Olivia’s gaze just the same to ensure it was clear she was serious. “It’s very impressive that you’ve come out here to experience this new realm despite feeling so overwhelmed.” 

           Camilla herself was a brand-new arrival as well, and despite her calm and collected composure, she too felt a bit overwhelmed. But she’d turned that energy straight into a resolve to get accustomed to Koi, starting first with the district in which she now lived. She’d been quite fortunate to encounter someone in her position — someone who seemed so kind and lovely, in fact. “Well, Olivia. I do know that the Chamomile District has quite the selection of things to do. Have you heard of Jazzmine Societea? I’m told it has delightful tea and a soothing atmosphere. It sounds just perfect for us as we settle in.”

[dorkmcgee-deactivated20200828]

Drew her for an art trade with a friend uwu

[drakanthine]

          Her royal education hadn’t focused so much on the arts, but Camilla had become quite proud of the way her simple ice sculpture had come along thus far. She’d never perfectly capture the image of Freyja, the sweet undead wyvern she’d unwillingly left back home since arriving here — but as determined a woman she was, she’d surely try.

         Around her, others fashioned their own creations, some more impressive than others, though Camilla had to admire everyone’s effort regardless of the resulting sculptures. From depictions of loved ones to winter essentials like snowflakes and holiday trees, everyone had their own idea of what a wonderland was made of. And beside her, a woman worked hard at the beginnings of her own sculpture — though it was too early to discern what she had in mind quite yet.

          “Ah, this is quite a nice change of pace. I’m glad everyone’s able to make the most of the cold together. And what is it that you’re working on?”

@lunatalon​ ♡ (sc)

[drakanthine]

          Observing those on the ice in Wisteria Square was delightful, from the couples who circled the rink casually to the younger ones who struggled to find their footing. The colorful winter lights added an additional layer of charm to the spectacle, and Camilla found herself thoroughly enjoying her environment as she herself skated slowly but gracefully around the perimeter of the ice, hands tucked comfortably into the pockets of her fluffy coat. One person in particular caught her eye — a woman who skated effortlessly across the ice, as if such an activity was commonplace in her own realm and she had carried her skill with her to Wisteria Square.

          “It’s certainly been quite some time since I’ve seen someone move so elegantly. You must have done this before, no?”

@cantilenas​ ♡ (sc)