Loving priestess ♡

I hope I can help! ✦ { closed RP w/ The Officers Academy | Church of Seiros Staff }

[gentlenekomata]

— rp blog for Sakura from fire emblem fates: revelation route, written by Ari (she/her, 27). Church of Seiros member, affiliated with the officers academy.

ミ☆ quick navigation; stat, thread tracker, about, mun, bonding

 A little bit of background about how I portray Sakura. Never done it, so I think it should be appropriate doing now ¯_(´・ω・｀)_/¯

❀. I follow Revelation route for inspiration and for her background, though sometimes I might change some minor events;

❀. She’s still the princess of her kingdom in Hoshido and so she does have some major responsibilities towards her people;

❀. She clearly remember the sufference from her period in prison, she’s got some marks left from that moment, but she slowly overcame it;

❀. She’s looking for her brothers and sisters (I’m waiting on you guys, you know) (｡•́︿•̀｡)

❀. Despite the ending in Revelation, she doesn’t remember much of how Anankos deceived her family, this explains the way she treats him;

❀. She’s a sweetiepie, but don’t be foolished by her charming smile – she has got a strong character and sometimes it might come out;

❀. About Engage characters: she’s connected with a bond ring, so I assume it’s alright for them to know her already, but not for her, she will have to learn everything from zero.

[gentlenekomata]

Special delivery: pigeons at your service! | Sakura+Mitama

⤷ Anniversary 2025: flying +1

[verseandrhyme]

"There was no reason in particular." Would the name somehow been better if she had held them here for hours pondering over it? Mitama has never had a pet before, she has no experience with naming things or anything like that. Hasu was simply what came to mind in the moment, and if the bird and Lady Sakura thought it fitting, then she would not argue. At this moment in time, she has no reason to think that her and this bird will ever recognize each other again, after all.

Newly named and freshly tended to, Hasu lets out one last coo before flying off her shoulder and back up to the rafters. Mitama watches it silently for a moment before turning her attention back to the princess.

"A schedule?" Ugh. The last thing she wants is to repeatedly deprive herself of rest by giving herself more labour to suffer through. The birds are not that bad, but their appeal is nothing compared to the delight of staying in bed and letting the hours roll by while doing nothing.

But, unfortunately, greater than her desire to sleep is her aversion to the idea of disappointing. So, after a moment of silence, Mitama nods and does her best to smile. "I imagine I would like that quite a bit. Thank you for making time for me."

Who knows, if she persists long enough, perhaps she might even learn how to find that bird again. Only time will tell but, for now, she is happy at least for a new memory worth revisiting. "I am grateful, Lady Sakura."

end

[gentlenekomata]

The meaning of the name was actually pretty cute in Sakura’s mind, as it reminded her of a lotus, a beautiful plant that grew even in the most difficult situation; perhaps Mitama thought of that because of the state of the hatchery, perhaps she wanted to give a powerful yet gentle name to that little bird, as a reminder and token of fortitude and fortune. Or perhaps she just liked the sound of the name –anything would be fitting for Sakura and the bird itself has approved the choice as well.

As it achieved the sound of its name, the little bird departed from Mitama’s shoulder and flew nearby its peers, happily cooing as it probably enjoyed the hard work the two girls put to clean the place and to make everything perfect and functional for them.

“I’m glad they’re enjoying the freshly clean hatchery” she giggled, before returning her attention to the pink-haired girl, listening to her brief sign of gratitude –she has always been so simple and soft in every word or that was what Sakura thought of Mitama, a girl of not too many words, but with a good heart. She smiled at her as she accepted the suggestion and thanked her for being able to do all of that together, like two friends would do, like a family would do.

“Hasu will be grateful for your help, I’m sure of it” she glanced at the rows of nestles, eyeing the bird that chose Mitama as a faithful partner. “Next time I’ll make a little décor for it, so this way we could easily recognize it among the others” she lastly added, before glancing one last smile at Mitama.

“I am the one grateful for your presence Mitama. I’ll be looking forward to our next task!” she eagerly said, hands clasping together as she drew closer to her, one last smile. “You are amazing Mitama, never forget it. What you did here, was something incredibly important, especially for them” and she turned to point the birds seemingly watching the couple from afar. “You have a good heart, like I always thought” and she let a soft giggle depart from her lips, as she lastly cupped Mitama’s hands in hers.

Azama would be proud of her.

/e n d .

[gentlenekomata]

the taste of home | Sakura+Emma

⤷ Anniversary 2025: axe +1

[shiningfalcon]

Riveted, she watches the skill with which Sakura wields the mallet. “Ohh!” she murmurs with wonder. Each swing looks so natural; if she weren’t royalty, Emma could believe Princess Sakura been born to make mochi. Then again, the life of a princess was about as distant to her as the life of anyone else here—for all she knew, being able to produce a national good so beloved as mochi was a vital part of the royal education. Or, she was just that graceful naturally.

Emma really could believe it either way.

Naturally, when the Hoshidan Princess suggests the Sky Knight in training help her with rice, the latter nods with fervor and a smile. “Yeah! Let’s get that rice cooking,” she readily agrees, head pivoting left and right searching for it. There it is—she takes a couple steps down along the counter, lifting the bowl of soaking mochigome and carefully carrying it with both hands, following Sakura’s footsteps. “And while it steams, I can practice my moves with the hammer! That way, by the time it’s done, I’ll be worthy of your trust.”

Delicately, she places the bowl of rice down on the counter in front of her so that Sakura can prepare it to be steamed. She returns to her earlier compliment, which still sticks with the girl.

“Heheh, I'd still feel weird calling myself a real Sky Knight, though. I’ve still got lots of training to do.” she says sheepishly. Even in spite of all the battles she’s faced, it feels like a shirt one size too big for her. “I still make mistakes all the time, and need people to show me how to do things right. I’m hoping that by the time I go back to Hoshido, I’ll have earned it!”

[gentlenekomata]

The enthusiasm of the young girl definitely put Sakura in an excellent mood, extremely grateful to share such intimate and wonderful moment and experience with a person that she considered part of her life and home. With a firm nod, she leaded the way and as she waited for the petite knight to come by with the bowl of rice, she eagerly approved the decision of Emma, who actually was very earnest to learn the correct usage of the mallet.

“This sounds like a good plan!” she chirped as she picked the bowl from the counter, pouring it inside the steamer and putting everything on the boiling water, mentally setting a timer as to not let the rice steam cook too much –otherwise, the consistency of the dough would be a bit too...sticky and soft. As she turned to face the petite brunette, she returned to the previous argument, the compliment didn’t go unattended by her, apparently and Sakura was absolutely pleased by her cute reaction.

“I bet that both Ryoma and Hinoka would love to see you in action!” she blurted as she happily trotted towards the counter where the mortar was placed, “Plus, Sky Knights were actually my favourite heroes, I always admire the elegance and the simplicity with which they manage to tame beautiful creatures like kinshi and then to fly among the clouds to protect our people…” she had a dreamy look while she picked up the mortar, though not losing the attention needed to place the instrument in the correct place to begin the crushing of the future dough.

“I excuse myself for my nosy attitude, but…” she paused, gaining as much respect and gentleness as possible, “Why have you chose to train as a Sky Knight, Miss Emma?” she was genuinely curious about her story and since they had to wait a little bit, she took the opportunity to learn more about what she already deemed to be a friend.

[gentlenekomata]

[ SWEET BUN TRIO ] - Three delicious, bite-sized buns from Faerghus. The first bun is filled with sweet cream and topped with icing and a candied cherry. The second is a sweet roll filled with almonds, pecans, and dried cranberries and glazed with honey. The third is a bun sliced in half, filled with almond paste and whipped cream, dusted with powdered sugar on top.

—

"Sakura-sama, is your evening going well?"

He appears as most retainers do, at the first signs of his liege's weariness. Hoshidan retainers come in various forms, of various purposes— the shadows that scout and observe, the childhood friends that nurture and support, the monks and diviners whose shrewd foresight bring forth wisdom— and he is the hawk that soars ahead in guidance. His wings his liege's, which breaks through the first wind to assure his liege's coming passage is smooth, and his eyes that serve as hers, too, which will direct themselves upon any impurity to ensure his liege's own sights remain pristine and pure. Likewise, as he is her compass, said bird understands when to obediently return, too, and perch upon his liege's welcoming hand as her confidant and friend when she needs.

"The festivities here aren't quite like the ones in Hoshido, are they?" He adds with a chuckle and he sits at her side, placing down a heated plate of Faerghus sweet buns. They are freshly warm from the oven and waft with a sweet scent. Secretly, they are glazed a tad more and honey spirals an intricate, beautiful pattern on the plate. Finally, pink tulip petals serve as a garnish in perfect presentation.

"This isn't your first Ethereal Ball," Tsubaki says. But it is mine, goes unspoken as his gaze flickers, briefly: to where his daughter stands from a distance, but just as quick as it drifts does his attention snap back towards his liege. Tsubaki smiles, "What do you like most about this event?"

His call warmed the heart of the petite priestess and despite the evening was coming to an end, she couldn’t renounce to spend some quality time with one of the most valuable and lovable retainer of all. “Now that you’re here, is getting even better” she chirpily replied as she invited him to coma by her side, a fragrant scent coming from a plate he was holding was also an optimal reason for her to spend some time with him.

As he seated, the plate with three Faerghus sweet buns peeped into his sight, making Sakura a little peckish as soon as another a waft of baking scent reached her nostrils. “I always prefer our traditions” she started, shifting her gaze on Tsubaki, “But I actually enjoy the kind of festivities here in Fódlan, they’re very lively!” she softly giggled, exchanging a smile with him. “I wish we could go back at them, sometimes” she let a little sigh as she turned her glance on the ground, nostalgia taking her back at the times where she and her siblings had fun all together. “I missed my home” she lastly added before becoming silent, though still carefully listening to what Tsubaki had to say.

“It is not my first time, you are right” she regained a bit of her glee attitude as she continued, “But what I like the most about this year, is the fact that many people from our country are finally getting back together” she genuinely smiled, then she turned to watch the buns, the petals were the delicate touch she expected from a retainer like him. “Would you like to share them?” she offered, after all he was the one who brought them, “To celebrate your first ball and to celebrate this wonderful reunion”

[peerlesssamurai]

Almost Like Home

TOA Anniversary Board 2025 — axe +1

[peerlesssamurai]

It was lovely to see Sakura take such charge, especially in commanding Ryoma. Always, he would be proud of her, but he was proud of her growth.

Yet still, she looked at him with puppy dog eyes, like she was still ten years old. Always, Ryoma would acquiesce to her requests, with or without that look in her eyes. Regardless, he hummed as if considering it, as if it wasn't an automatic yes.

"The ingredients will likely be very expensive, especially with the import fees from Hoshido," he said, rubbing his chin, considering. Of course, he'd happily spend every penny he had on this.

"I suppose I could," he said with a sigh, though his smile hadn't vanished. Anything for his siblings, he thought. "I'll be back as soon as I can with ingredients." He wanted to ruffle her hair, but perhaps that could come a bit later.

For now, Ryoma had the market to run to. The stalls were busy today, possibly because everyone had the same idea. As he looked around at each stall, it seemed things were flying off the stands. He hoped he could find something.

At each stall, Ryoma emptied more and more of his purse on overpriced ingredients. If he hadn't been homesick already, he certainly was now. He missed a time when such ingredients were readily available, without extortionate prices. He missed the easier summer days, and the carefree moments he could enjoy with his family.

This would be one of those days, even if he hadn't a penny left to his name.

With bags full, he returned to the kitchens, where he trusted Sakura to have secured what they needed

[gentlenekomata]

As soon as Ryoma departed to find the ingredients, Sakura immediately headed towards the kitchen area, where everything would be put into action: she gently asked the permission to use the space for personal reason and with their agreement, she started to put in place anything she needed for the preparations of mochis and tea. She picked a large pot and she filled it with fresh water, just to put it on the heater to boil; first thing done, then, next task –the tools needed for the making of the mochis.

She roamed and rummaged around the kitchen for about ten minutes before finding out all the utensils she needed for the preparations: firstly, the wooden mortar and the mallet, essential for mashing the dough, then few more items that the petite priestess deemed to be useful for the making of this sweet, that was, more bowls to move the rice around and some wooden ladle to make sure everything mixed properly together.

By the times she prepared all the tools on the main counter, neatly placed and ordered, the water was starting to boil and that meant that she could place the bamboo steamer with the wet rice inside, over the pot to steam cook, which was the best method to use to make the rice softer and more malleable. The first step was complete, the rice just needed ten or fifteen minutes to properly cook and as she was calculating the time to wait, a pleasant surprise appeared at the door.

“Welcome back!” she chirped as she greeted him with a smile, heading to help him over with the bags, while she already peeked inside, “You got a lot of ingredients, how nice!” she giggled, placing the bag on the counter, not so distant from the mallet. “I've put the rice to steam cook, in the meantime we can choose who’s gonna do what” she nodded as she placed herself near the wooden mortar, “You know better than  me that there are two roles and that I am happy to do whether you prefer” she lastly said, as she patiently waited from him to choose his role for now, perfectly aware of the fact that they could even change tools if they wanted.

“I can even show you how strong I’ve got!”

[gentlenekomata]

Special delivery: pigeons at your service! | Sakura+Mitama

⤷ Anniversary 2025: flying +1

[verseandrhyme]

Lady Sakura talks enough to easily fill what is left of the work. As the princess details a precious moment that Mitama had once again been absent for, she continues to work, filling bowl after bowl with water until eventually, she has made her way through more and more of the birds that fill this tiny area.

What the princess describes is not that different from the task they do now. Yet, the very thought stings in a way that she presumes neither of them would have anticipated. He enjoyed it, she claims. Her father found the idea of taking care of something enjoyable?

So was it just taking care of Mitama that was the problem?

In all honesty, she does not really feel like naming the bird that has settled on her shoulder again. She would much rather take the information she has received today and go off to ponder what she thinks about it. The only thing that stops her is that she does not want to be rude to Lady Sakura, who does not deserve it simply for being the unknowing bearer of unwelcome news.

So, instead, Mitama forces up a laugh and puts down the last set of bowls before carefully and slowly raising up a hand to gently pat the bird. "I think you would likely be able to come up with something better than anything I suggest."

After a moment of thinking, she hums thoughtfully. "Hasu."

[gentlenekomata]

As she shifted her gaze over Mitama, Sakura noticed a slight discontent in her eyes, but the laugh she did shrugged off the bad vibes: was she imagining things? She wasn’t that sure, but at least she made a very special moment and remembrance with her, in a place she never imagined and with something that she wouldn’t believe to be so similar to the experience she lived with Mitama’s father, Azama. Everything seemed so connected that it almost felt like it was predestined as a meeting and as a task –but what Sakura did not know, was that not everything was as simple and easy as she thought.

The name she suggested was actually pretty cute for a pigeon and even the little guy seemed to enjoyed it, as it chirped soon after it heard the name pronounced by the young girl. “I think that it likes it!” Sakura replied in excitement, wondering what she actually hid behind the meaning of that choice. “Is that a particular reason why you chose that name?” she was curious, but of course she didn’t want to prick too much in what it might be private for the pink-haired girl.

“And since we’re practically done here, I think that we can… perhaps schedule a routine for taking care of the hatchery, if you’d like?” she was hesitant, knowing that it might be a coincidence for the two of them to be here together, but in her heart, Sakura believed that Mitama enjoyed her time together with her and even if it wasn’t exactly an incredible task, it was easy and cozy, especially if you liked taking care of animals.

“It could be our special moment” she lastly added, proud of being able to spend some quality time with a person she considered part of her family.

[gentlenekomata]

[ SPARKLING WATER ] - Fresh spring water that has been magically carbonated. Served with a squeeze of lime or a dash of one of the many fruit syrups available at the bartender’s disposal.

The evening was almost come to an end, but among the many pretty and unfamiliar faces, one definitely stood for her beauty and delicacy.

“Miss L’Arachel!” she chirpily said as she swiftly walked her way, admiring the beautiful suite she chose for the ball, “My gosh, you look so stunning, I truly love your outfit!” she giggled as she always found herself complimenting other with a nonchalant that wasn’t accustomed to her at all. to light up the little tenson she always felt whenever she overwhelmed people with compliments that she thought it might be too much, she spotted a fresh carbonated drink finely decorated with a slice of tropical fruit.

“Here, let’s have something refreshing after this long evening!” she picked two glasses and kindly offered one of them to L’Arachel, accompanying it with a radiant smile. “Have you enjoined the ball?”

[diadic]

straddle bet

         ⤷    mission task:   pearlescent   ( reflective )

[diadic]

    Relieved to hear Sakura on the other side, calling his name at last to prove that she had heard him (he thinks?), he remains still as he maintains their conversation.

“Is everything alright??”  he asks, trying to be quiet. The way she got cut-off bothers him, but when it's her who can see his sight and not the other way around, he just has to trust on instinct and anything she's willing to relay.

“I don't know where you are now, but there was a sitting room I was in. If you didn't see it through the mirror when I entered it, it wasn't that far from where I left you. It's a dead-end room with only windows that lead out, but you're not going to use them.

“Check the plants in the room instead. There's one where when you step on the floor tile it's on, you'll get warped. That's how I got where I am now.”

Meanwhile, the sound of the door that had chased Sakura into the wardrobe stops rattling. A woman's voice can be heard on the other side, slightly muffled.

“No, not that room, dear. If you want to freshen up, then it's...”

Her voice recedes, two sets of footsteps following in her wake. Leif's voice comes through the mirror again:

“You know magic, right? You should be able to feel the room's enchanted better than me then.”

[gentlenekomata]

She could heard his voice, whispering as if he actually understood the situation she was accidentally dropped in, and with a calm tone, he explained the obvious, or rather, what it must be obvious if she actually understood how to use that mirror. Plants? I actually saw something that remind me of a plant… she thought to herself as she still felt the two presence outside the wardrobe, two women talking, possibly seeking for the bathroom as far as Sakura understood by their words. Yet, that wasn’t the point –she needed to find Leif.

Peeking from the thin closet crack, the petite priestess eventually noticed the couple leaving the room as they possibly realized it was a dead end room and as she heard the main door closing, she slowly opened a closet door to check if the outside was really free and out of danger: no sign of people, it was safe. She carefully placed a feet outside, then she left the wardrobe with a soft thud on the ground. Now that she was safely outside, she double checked the room and Leif’s voice echoed once again from the mirror in her apron.

You know magic, right?

A glimmer flashed through her mind and before she could answer him, she finally found the plants he had described earlier; they almost seemed fake, but the lush green of the leaves was deceiving. “Yes, I’ll check on them” she replied as she kept the mirror in her hands and then she walked towards the corner of the room where the plants were, already feeling a little dizzy and teased.

“I sense something…” she kept on talking, hoping to keep the connection with Leif alive this way and as she walked closer to the plants, she noticed a strange tile just beneath one of them, the very same tile Leif mentioned few moments ago. “I’ll take a look now” and saying so, the petite priestess put the mirror back in her apron and gently dragged the vase, discovering a smaller tile which unnaturally shone of a brilliant light. Curious yet careful, Sakura slowly press the tile with one of her feet and suddenly, a warp of Glitter and sparkles swirled all around her and before you know it, she found herself in another room, but finally she was no longer alone.

“Leif!!” she was so happy she couldn’t contain her voice, running towards him with open arms and joyous heart, “I’m so glad you’re okay” she chirped, bowing her head in sign of gratitude, “But…” she stopped for a moment, observing the surroundings, “Where are we now?” she looked perplexed, then returned her gaze on him. “And most importantly, have you discovered something useful here?”

Too many questions many questions were floating around in her head, but things certainly needed to be branched out one at a time.

[gentlenekomata]

♡ May activity check ♡

I have many replies to do and this month it's been terrible due to work and personal issues ｡ﾟ(｡ﾉωヽ｡)ﾟ｡ BUT I will depart for my trip to Japan on the 11, so I'll do my very very best to get as many replies in these few days since I will be wihtout laptop for about three weeks after that. I'll do my best Σd(ゝ∀･)ﾉ

Skill points

activity

Activity Check – any +1

total — [ 79 + 1 = 80 ]

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Points allocation

given to Heavy Armour [ C -> C* ]

Claims

Ethereal Ball reward -> Seaside Parasol [pending]

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

On going threads

waiting for you;

A sweeter beating - Saizo | gauntlet +1 @hoshidosflame

Valse de salon - Siegbert | Infamous @ahnenstolz

Sweet seminar – Darios |Epidemic, gauntlet +1 @grxstnnefealltoir

folded petals, tangled laundry – Hinoka | Infamous @scarletfireblossom

Sweet memories - Tine | Anniversary 2025, axe +1 @frigidsurge

nyathing to be concerned about – Tsubaki | Anniversary 2025, authority +1 @petalblight

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

have to reply;

the taste of home – Emma | Anniversary 2025, axe +1 @shiningfalcon

what lies within – Raven (ethereal ball mini thread) @peerlessscowl

Special delivery: pigeons at your service! – Mitama | Anniversary 2025, flying +1 @verseandrhyme

Straddle bet – Leif | Pearlescent @diadic

smoky reunion – Corrin M | Infamous, reason +1 @duskofendflame

Almost like home – Ryoma | axe +1 @peerlesssamurai

the stick quest: path to bravery and swordship - Panette | Anniversary 2025, sword +1 @classybrawler

Let's pound this Mochi to perfection with hammers – L’Arachel | Anniversary 2025, axe +1 @far-from-common

Where is my mantle - Ophelia | Infamous @umbralward

Sweet bonds and sticky rice – Raven | Anniversary 2025, axe +1 @ raven

+ several ball asks

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Dropped threads

Yuzu mini-thread (toaball2025)

[gentlenekomata]

my happy place | Sakura & Takumi

toaball 2026, continuing from here

[gentlenekomata]

@fujins-favored

His voice was so reassuring, she remembered it so clearly that it was impossible for the forget, not even in a million years: she was so deeply in love with him and aside the terrible happenings, she would always love her brother, no matter what.

She glanced at his suit, he was absolutely right. “We definitely matched even without knowing it beforehand!” she giggled, a soft breath of relief that everything seemed to be at their correct place: happiness, reunion, family, closeness, all words that echoed in her mind as she twirl to make him admire her dress –she was so proud of it!

Then her attention returned on the sweets. “Oh, I’d like to try the one topped with candied cherry, it seems so good!” she chirped and soon after, she found a rose in front of her nose. “It’s beautiful, but let me beutify this moment even more..” and she pulled an orchid from her bouquet, placing it in his wonderful band belt. “There, now we’re even more matchy!” she lastly giggled, ready to savour the delicious treat.

[gentlenekomata]

[ SHAVED ICE ] - Served with a wide assortment of sweet, fruity syrups. Traditionally, it is served in bowls, but some are saying it makes for quite a refreshing sip when drank from a glass.

Drinks were never enough for her, especially when it came to fruity syrups served with piece of fruit inside; she was extremely greedy of it and as she landed her hands on another bowl, she felt the soft touch of another hand. As she lifted her gaze, their eyes met and she felt a little skip to her heart.

“Camilla” she sweetly said, a gentle smile tugged her lips as she let go of the bowl, “Are you enjoining the evening as well?” she chirpily asked, then she picked one of her flower from the bouquet and gently tugged it in Camilla’s hair. “There, you look gorgeous!”

Then, she noticed the ankle, a worried expression hovered her visage. "Oh my, how did you injuried yoursefl?"

[gentlenekomata]

a glimpse of the past, a sweet memory | Sakura+Ronan

toaball 2026, continuing from here

[gentlenekomata]

@seawardoath

His gentleness was something that did not pass unobserved by Sakura, who immediately tried to help him out with the pieces of glasses, but of course the velocity and speed of reaction of the young man definitely outmatched the petite priestess, who simply put a forgiving smile as to show off how she truly felt. She was utterly used to help other and seeing how much care and attention he was putting into a mistake - that most possibly was caused by her – definitely made Sakura feel overwhelmed by emotions, positive emotions indeed.

After observing the arrival of another servant who happened to come to his aid, she noticed the hesitation of the young man, but eventually she welcomed him with a warm smile as he accepted her request and offered her a beautiful hyacinth to accompany her bouquet.

“I’ll be your lead, do not worry!” she enthusiastically replied as she took his hands with hers and began to move, slowly, following the rhythm of the melody as the music gentle caressed her memories back to when she was a little kid trying to learn each movement from her mother. It was like a lullaby, slow and sweet, taking her back to the night she heard it from the very first time.

“It is so beautiful, but what makes it like this, it’s both you and me, dancing at the same pace” she was daydreaming, remembering back the castle, the nobles, her family, her world. “Thanks for bringing me back to my past. It’s…nice, sometimes” she said it casually, almost aware of the fact he might not understand what she meant with that phrase, but a token of gratitude was an universal way to say thank you and to make it understandable for him as well.

“A token of gratitude, to thank you for the splendid dance” and she offered an orchid, taken from her bountiful bouquet. She just was so happy to be able to feel back home again, for once.

[gentlenekomata]

[ HOSHIDO ] - A synchronized dance that must be done by two people. To a slow and gentle melody, the pair moves with fluid purpose, evoking the image of a crane in flight.

"You'll have to show me the steps. I don't know this one."

Sakura smiled lightly at the sound of his request, her heart as merry as it was the first time they me -despite the terrible circumstances they had been in, of course.

“First, you have to lend me your hands” and she gently offered hers, slowly placing the bouquet aside, “Then, all you have to do is move slowly, following the melody” she lastly said as she softly pushed them forward in the centre of the ballroom, lightly trying to indicate the direction with her head as she wanted Raven to learn as much as she could from her homeland’s culture.

“By the way, your outfit is very lovely! The long jacket you put suits you so well it seems like it was sewed for you” she giggled as she observed his apparel, perfectly matching the hyacinths he was carrying along, tenderly though, the same delicacy she noticed in their little misadventure.

[gentlenekomata]

sweet reunion | Sakura+Diamant

toaball 2026, continuing from here

[gentlenekomata]

@heriteur

The pleasant feeling Sakura felt every time she met him was somewhat indescribable: he was to her eyes a sturdy knight, a brave fighter and seeing him with such elegance and refined clothes certainly made the petite priestess stare in awe, also grateful for him for having let the sweet all for herself, even though Sakura wasn’t the type of person to not share a sweet.

“Oh, for me?” she said quite incredulous, but she kindly accepted the flower, adding it to her bouquet. “And you also leave the sweet... aren’t you the brave knight everyone wished to meet?” she giggled, softly embarrassed by the phrase she just said, but perhaps the bold colour of her dress gave her the courage to say so. “But I prefer sharing sweets and in this special occasion, also sharing flowers” she lastly said as she remove one of the orchids from the bouquet and gently tucked it jacket pocket.

“Now, shall we eat the sweet bun trio together?”

[heirjinto]

@gentlenekomata / continued:

?!!??!?!!?!?

what? nooooooo. nononono no. that's NOT what he meant!!! argh!!! ahhhh!!!!!! NO!!! NO!!!!!!

try as he may to keep from squirming, there's no helping the uncomfortable grimace that pulls back his lips, or the way in which his cheeks suddenly flush with a heat that travels to the tips of his ears. "uh, that's...! ahem." shiro coughs, but it's too late. the damage has been done. there's no salvaging this. he's already feeling plenty awkward. "idon'tevenknowher!"

strange, isn't it? that he can easily stomach teasing from friends—it's different with them! they know him well enough to realize when to back off, and know which lines can and can't be crossed. but family? (one he's still getting to know?) that's a different story altogether. so here lies the uncomfortable truth to be stomached: that even after the war, they're still strangers with things to learn about the other, and woe be the smallest misstep that might lend itself to a blunder.

(not to mention, he gets the sense that his aunt might actually be serious about this.)

what else to do, then, but to deviate? parry the blow as one does in combat? harmless momentum. subtle enough not to offend. it's worked for him before—surely it'll do the trick again. "haha. maybe later? i mean, we're still hanging out!" for some reason, he hasn't got the heart to tell her that he's flat-out not interested. "...and your dress! that's a SUPER nice dress you've got on, auntie sakura. y'know what'd really go with it?"

shiro fumbles with his bouquet for a second to retrieve one of his white tulips, handing it over with an expression he's sure wouldn't be befitting of any so-called pure-bred royal who knows a thing or two about a regal composure. "this! take it! it's all yours!"

[gentlenekomata]

In her complete oblivious state, Sakura kept on smiling at Shiro, a genuine one, wondering how cute he was whenever he suddenly blush like that. It definitely reminded her of Ryoma, even though she wasn’t sure she has ever actually seen him being embarrassed by her or in general…

To be truth, it was also fair that they both didn’t know each other that much, war put them in a condition where anything that you could call ‘daily’ wasn’t actually daily anymore and despite all the good efforts she tried to put into regaining forces after all that happened, mayhap others were different from her, different from her character, different from her spirit. She was quite the type of person that ignored signals from other people, of course in a innocent way, as she actually was pretty empathic, on the other hand; yet, the relationship between she and her nephew was still on progress and who knows that her attitude was perhaps too much for a young coming from the deeprealms.

Lost in her own obliviousness and in Shiro’s chatters, Sakura suddenly felt surprised in hearing him complimenting her for an outfit she wasn’t that sure and confident about: it was a simple dress, but in some way different from her usual safe picks. And even more, he surprised her with a gift, a flower from his bouquet! A dainty smile tugged Sakura’s lips as she picked the tulip and add it to her bouquet, but after that, she immediately thought she should do the same for him, to help him getting a better chance on that girl.

“Your kindness is so precious my dear Shiro” she tilted her head in sign of gratitude, “You’ll do an even better impression on her with this” and she extracted one of her orchid to hand over to Shiro. “Here, orchids are symbol of pure love, exactly what you represent”

[hresvelged]

@gentlenekomata sent:

[ PHOTO-ARTIFEX ] - The ever-popular photo-artifex makes its annual return, allowing users to capture pictures in as little as a flash of light and a moment. Take home something to remember the event by!

Sakura was used to see many beauties among the several participants at the ball, but this year, the petite priestess found herself in awe as soon as she set her goldenish eyes on Edelgard; the gown she chose was absolutely stunning, enchanting on her silhouette and the orchids she was holding definitely complete her look in a gracious way. she couldn’t help but stare in amazement and eventually, their gaze met.

Immediately, Sakura lowered her gaze in embarrassment, but picking all the courage she had, she went straight towards the girl with her bouquet held tightly in her hands, her face still facing the ground, but she timidly rose it as she reached her figure. Their eyes met again.

“You look truly beautiful, Miss Edelgard” she blurted, her voice trembled a little, but she observed the flowers in her hands, pleased to have the same bouquet as her. “And we share the same bouquet, how lucky I am!” she giggled, stiffness slightly leaving her side, then her glance took over a familiar artifex she used to admire in the past event.

“Shall we..take a remembrance of this moment, together?” her cheeks coloured in soft red hues, while her fingers nervously wrapped around the bouquet stems.

Edelgard took great care in the way her hair draped neatly away from her eyes; in the way her dress blossomed at her feet and the flowers adorning its top opened in full bloom. When Sakura approached her in her own crimson attire, she welcomed the conversation. Surprise soon turned into gratitude.

"O-Oh? Thank you, Lady Sakura. That's very kind to say. Your own dress is quite lovely. Its reds suits you well." Looking down at their matching bouquets of orchids, the warmth of petite laughter bubbled past her lips and slipped into the air. "Orchids have a nice charm to them, wouldn't you agree? Given our flowers are the same, offering one of my own may not seem like much. Despite that, I'd still like to. After all, it's one more flower than you had before. Besides.."

Much like the images produced by the photo-artifex, they are gifts. Noticing Sakura's hesitation, Edelgard took a step forward and wore a bout of confidence— Her lips upturned into kind agreeance as she used her free hand to extend it forward in offering.

"Is it strange of me to say I find that device intriguing?" A laugh. With a physical reminder like these, she needn't worry about forgetting. All she had to do was live in the present and remember for tomorrow. "Heh. Maybe so. It makes you wonder what other advances may be waiting for us. I've often wondered." Removing herself from the long train of thought, she stated, "All that is to say I'd be happy to."

[gentlenekomata]

“Indeed! Orchids represent elegance, refined beauty, love and passion. All qualities that definitely characterised you, Miss Edelgard” she nodded, regaining some confidence in words; talking about flowers has always been a passion for her and despite she did not see the same qualities in her, she was happy to share the knowledge with her. plus, the exchange wasn’t a waste, at all.

“Even if they’re similar, each orchid is unique and giving one away is also a great meaning of beauty and compassion” she explained, trying her best to sound professional and elf-confident, despite the petite look, “That said, I would kindly accept your gift and I will offer one of mine to show you my immense gratitude” she bowed her head and as she rose, she to remove a flower from her bouquet, hand stretching out towards the beautiful girl to exchange the gifts.

“Perhaps this could be a good pose for the photo-artifex!” she pondered quickly, staring at the contraption in front of them, “While many advances await us and go further, we, on the other hand,  can still stop and enjoy this moment –together” she lingered a moment, stared into Edelgard’s gaze and eventually she turned to stare at the artifex, ready to pose.

“Whenever you want, I'm ready!”

[gentlenekomata]

[ HOSHIDO ] - A synchronized dance that must be done by two people. To a slow and gentle melody, the pair moves with fluid purpose, evoking the image of a crane in flight.

Her sister was beautiful, truly. Far more than herself, the soldier, the one out of place in a ballroom for all she might be queen now. And yet, even as she approached Sakura, Hinoka found herself reaching out and slipping one of her lilies from her bouquet into her sister’s hair. She smiled softly.

"There, a gift for you, little sister," she murmured. "Will you join me in this dance, even though we both know how bad I am at it?"

At the end of the day, she just wanted a moment with Sakura, a calm moment. A chance for sisters to dance together. Something she missed as her sister was growing up. Something Hinoka neglected in her efforts to train. Something she wanted to reclaim.

Everyone had put their best outfit for this special event, but among them all, Sakura couldn’t help but fell in love with how Hinoka decided to show up: she was wearing a dress, something unusual for her own style, but in all honesty, it suited her so much that the petite priestess wished to see her like that everyday now, even though she perfectly knew she was a warrior –dresses weren’t that practical to fight.

The moment their eyes met, she noticed her bigger sister approaching her immediately after and as she reached for one of her lilies, Sakura felt the delicate touch of her sister on her head, fingers tracing along her hair. It felt ticklish and childish, since it reminded her of their mother. How much she loved that moments!

“Thank you so much Hinoka, let me do the same for you!” she giggled in response, pulling out one of the orchids from her bouquet and as she stood on tiptoe, she set it among her well-groomed and perfumed hair. “There, we’re flowery sisters now!” and she let her arms envelope the slim silhouette of Hinoka, nodding at the request of the older Hoshidian.

“Like Mother taught us, slowly and steady” she said it like some sort of secret, whispering it to Hinoka as she drew closer to her face. “I will follow you everywhere, sister”