My Dream? To Be A True Knight!

Nice to meet you! I’m Ashe, a student of the Blue Lions. (Affiliated with TOA)

[lunaestice]

For Justice!

Ashe Durand from Fire Emblem: Three Houses. Ultimately adored muse of Queen (She/Her)

Mobile Links:

About Ashe / Mun / Stats (TBA)

Portrayal notes:

Ashe is, of course, from his pre-timeskip portrayal. Eternally earnest and kindhearted, he dreams of making Lonato proud and becoming a true knight. Just like the heroes in the books he so adores.

Related to that, since TOA is a canon divergence I’m writing under the assumption (for now) that Lonato’s rebellion has not happened and that he’s still alive and sponsoring Ashe’s education.

Silly, but I’ll be using his Japanese surname Durand over the localization’s Ubert. This is purely a personal preference as I’m not fond of how Ubert sounds. I’d appreciate others (if his last name is ever brought up) to refer to him as such as well!

While I plan to develop his reason skill rank I flavor it not as him actually learning offensive magic, but rather learning elemental infusions like how in three hopes he can fire off wind arrows.

[contempenitent]

sainthood made of sand

mauvier & ashe - home sweet holy land

[lunaestice]

“W-Wow, really?” Ashe listened to Mauvier with great interest. He’d heard a few stories about this divine dragon queen already from a few of the monks, who described her like a goddess. Knowing her blessing went into the peaches he was currently holding filled him with an odd sense of reverence and respect. “I guess I’ll have to really give this dessert my all, then. I wouldn’t want to disappoint her.”

The boy briefly wondered if there was any way to bring these fruits- or perhaps their seeds- back home with him. Or would that be heresy, bringing a blessing from another deity into the domain of the goddess? …also, with how infertile Faerghus’ fields tend to be, it would be a monumental task to get them to grow in the first place.

Having arrived in the kitchen, Ashe decided to put that aside for now. Despite having seen it earlier, it was still impressive how well stocked it was. Having prepared a basin of water earlier, he proceeded to gently place the peaches into the basin, watching as they bobbed on the surface. “Sir Mauvier, could I ask you to wash and cut the peaches? I’ll get started on the batter then.”

Cutting the peaches was a relatively simple task- which is why Ashe asked Mauvier to take over that part. It would’ve taken a lot more time for him to do it on his own, if afterwards he also had to get the batter ready. “They don’t need to be cut super small- bite sized chunks are perfect.” He explained with a smile. “And if you need help, don’t hesitate to ask.”

[contempenitent]

Mauvier has offered his help, and he is nothing if not a man of his word. And obviously, helping to cook peach tarts means handling the peaches -- washing them, cutting them, and the like.

A horrible dread snakes up his spine as he stares into the basin of fruit. As if touching one will cause lightning to rain from the sky, and strike him dead. It's an absolutely ridiculous thought, but it won't leave him.

Queen Lumera had been anything but a vengeful deity. Sir Vander had told him as much, and accounts from all others who had met her regarded her as gentle and loving. Mauvier hadn't had a direct hand in her death, and Lady Veyle had not been in her right mind when she landed the killing blow -- so why does he still feel responsible?

"Of course," Mauvier answers, hovering over the basin. He takes a moment to silently pray over the peaches -- for guidance, for forgiveness. For more than he deserves.

At last, Mauvier gingerly grabs a peach, finding that it no holy fire consumes him. "Apologies," he stammers as he wipes it off, setting it on the counter, hoping Ashe hasn't noticed his hesitation. "I won't burden you with the details, but...the Divine Dragon Queen and I once fought on opposing sides. I saw the error of my ways long ago, but...I suppose I still worry she disfavors me."

[lunaestice]

Admittedly he didn’t expect that from a man as serene and chivalrous looking as him.. Then again, not many expect him to have a sordid history either. Everyone had their own skeletons, their own chip on their shoulder.

Mauvier’s look particularly heavy though. Ashe had noticed the man’s hesitation before, but at first decided not to comment too much on it. He seemed to have trouble with handling the peaches, and briefly the boy wondered if he should offer to switch.

This short explanation gave a bit more context, though. And Ashe genuinely could empathize. After all, he’s made his own share of mistakes too. It’s easy to get stuck in that feeling of unworthiness in times like those.

“I can’t claim to know the thoughts of a divine dragon, but..” Briefly putting down the spatula on the table, he turns to look at the man with a sympathizing smile. “The way the monks spoke of her, she sounded like a very kind and graceful lady.” Definitely not the vengeful type. Or at least that’s not the vibe Ashe got from the stories.

“I don’t know what you were like before, but to me you’ve been nothing but helpful and kind! Your assistance really made my day.” He doesn’t know how deep this lies within the knight, but he hopes a kind word will at least soothe his worries a little bit.

[surebow]

noble expectations

TOA Ball 2026

[lunaestice]

Ashe had decided, this would be the song where’d he’d put himself out there. It would’ve just been sad if he put in so much effort to attend the a ball just to stand on the sidelines the whole time, after all.

Only problem was that anyone he knew and could see was already accounted for at the moment. Thankfully that problem wouldn’t last for long as, much to his surprise, someone else approached him first. “..with me?” He pointed towards himself, blinking a few times. “If you don’t mind then.. I’d be glad to, thank you!”

Like he’d been practicing, as was proper for this type of song, he put one hand on the other person’s shoulder, while his other hand held onto the man’s. “Like this.. right? Sorry, um.. I’m still a bit of a novice when it comes to dancing, haha.”

[surebow]

"So long as you don't stamp on my feet, you being a novice is no bother to me." It's not like he could expect a commoner to have the same grace as a noble. A noble had different education to commoners, after all.

"I am happy to teach you." Innes frowned. "Your stance is all wrong, however. Stand a little straighter - if you have no pride, fake it. How can you be taken seriously if you shrink in on yourself?"

As Innes spoke, he also took hold of Ashe's hands and changed his placement. "There. Not only is that more comfortable, I'm sure, but it is also more proper." He released the boy's hands, before holding him properly once more. "Thankfully, I am a man of many talents. Dancing, archery, history, there is little I cannot do."

[lunaestice]

“I.. I’ll do my best sir.” Boy he sure hoped the man didn’t hear the way he swallowed his nerves just now! And upon hearing his first mistake, Ashe straightened his back tensely until it was as straight as an arrow. As straight as he wasn’t.

Next were his hands, which apparently were also wrong. Wow, it’s kind of sad at that point how wrong he’s been getting it. At least this guy had enough confidence for the both of them, judging from the way he shamelessly boasted about his talents. Ashe wasn’t sure if that confidence was kind of cool… or kind of annoying.

“Oh, you’re an archer too, sir? I am as well! Or at least, that’s what I’m trying to be…” nice they had at least something in common, even if Ashe was still a newcomer at it. Finally the dance began as the music swelled. Despite his best efforts to look proper, he couldn’t help but keep looking down to make sure he wasn’t stepping on any noble piggies.

[lunaestice]

“Thank you! I promise, I won’t get in the way!” The boy smiled gratefully as he got to work setting up the glasses. This felt like a much more familiar sort of motion, more than dancing ever did anyway. And while Ashe worked on setting the table, he listened to the older man’s musings.

He was a frank sort of guy, huh? Ashe couldn’t find himself disagreeing with anything he said, but speaking your mind like that was pretty brave.. Then again, it made for a comfortable conversation. He much preferred people who were honest over those who lied with honeyed words anyway.

“Rigid is a pretty apt way of putting it.” Ashe laughed lightly at the comment, covering his mouth with one gloved hand as he did. “Not that I can blame them.. if their lessons had been anything like mine, they’ve been taught to follow a script.”

It was more about making a good impression than to have fun, which Ashe had a feeling Ronan understood.

“As for me, um…” He looked slightly shocked, eyes widening at how close the older man got to his situation. “I wouldn’t say I’m inheriting a title, exactly.” He knew that was a possibility, somewhere in the back of his mind.. but it was never his position to take. It was Christophe’s. And he knew how much Lonato suffered after losing his only true son.. so Ashe never wanted to hurt him by bringing up the topic of inheritance. Because of this, what would happen to House Gaspard after Lonato stepped down.. was uncertain to Ashe. “I was adopted by a very kind nobleman a few years back, though. It’s also because of him that I’m able to attend this school at all, despite just being a commoner.”

Gratitude, admiration and love all shone through in the way Ashe described his adoptive father. He always looked up to Lonato, ever since he extended his hand and saved him and his siblings.

“But I’m still his adopted son. If I didn’t know how to dance, even a little… I was worried it would make him look bad. Though, I guess being a wall-flower probably also doesn’t do that any favors, ahaha….” He laughed, in a slightly self deprecating tone. “What about you? Am I right to assume you’ve only gotten involved with the nobility pretty recently yourself?”

[seawardoath]

Ronan smiles. It's crooked and doesn't quite reach his eyes, but he's glad he'd gotten something right about this boy, and amused by the way he put his question. 'Involved with' wasn't wrong, he supposes, but he'd always felt more like he was on the outside watching. He shakes his head and turns to gather a few more glasses to add to the table.

"I'm nobody special. The name's Ronan, by the way. I came to this monastery to make some money, but usually I'm out in the mud and dirt." Raising one hand, he wiggles his fingers and laughs. "It took some scrubbing, but the guys in charge let me in here after I proved I'd washed under all my fingernails. To be honest, this is my first time being near so many noble men and women at one time. And, if I can keep being honest, it's a relief to run into someone else like me."

He glances sidelong at his new helper, his crooked smile still tucked into the corner of his cheek. "Well, a commoner, is what I mean. Our similarities stop at adoption. Maybe the part about not knowing how to dance, too."

Ronan glances out at the dance floor, watching the beautiful couples in their expensive gowns and suits parading in a circle like the point of the dance is less about the footwork and more about displaying themselves to those who look on from the sidelines.

"You just mean ballroom dances, right?" he asks, looking back curiously. "You had to have gone to a fair or a festival once or twice before this nobleman took you in."

[lunaestice]

Ah, that made sense. A man from humble origins too, now it clicked why Ashe felt a little more at ease. “Nice to meet you, Ronan. I’m Ashe, a student of the Blue Lions.” He introduced himself back with a light smile. Ronan seemed like a nice and respectable guy, someone Ashe could see himself getting along with.

The boy couldn’t help but laugh lightly at the way Ronan spoke of himself, wriggling fingers and all. It was a slightly more natural and comfortable laugh, too. “I know what you mean. Outside of my classmates, who thankfully are very kind, it’s sort of nerve wracking interacting with nobles. I keep feeling like a bumpkin, or like I’m walking on thin ice.” Of course, none of this was said with ill intent.

Then the topic of festivals came up. He briefly thought about it, raising a finger to his cheek and lightly poking at it. “Hm, I’m… not sure, actually.” It’s been so long ago now that his memory was a bit fuzzy. His birth parents died when he was 7, and after that he’d have no opportunity to join any festivals. “I can’t really remember attending anything like that. That’s probably not a very interesting answer though, haha.”

[lunaestice]

[ MOVIE - TRAGEDY? ] - Sara's first Ethereal Ball is twice removed from this lifetime, a memory that few speak of and fewer seem to remember. By her fifth or six, even she can't recall how many of these she has attended anymore, but no effort has been spared to find new, innovative ways to enterain guests from near and far.

Elegant, high-backed chairs line the unlit rooms which had been previously closed-off to the general public. Her gaze pulls toward the front, or perhaps the back technically, that every seat faces, positioned in view of… nothing of interest. A blank wall, if she were to be more generous, though the man outside insisted there would a show.

She squints at the playbill again to the best her ability, reading the fine print and impatiently turning to the boy in the next seat, "Excuse me, how much longer do we—"

Her head whips around at alarming speed.

The powerful, deafening voice of a man fills the once silent space as a burning sun emerges on the horizon, painting bare walls in bright colors and critters.

Rendered speechless, her eyes become transfixed to the scene, bewildered when a cartoonish monkey carrying a pathetic staff climbs atop a rock and hugs a lion with strangely chiseled features. The only tragedy here is that it appears Sara will be forced to sit for the whole thing. She hopes the person responsible for the ridiculous mix-up won't soon be rehired.

It really was amazing how far Magic had advanced. Being able to produce sound and moving images like these? Being told to take a seat in front of a blank wall had him questioning what would happen at first, and judging from the murmurs around him he wasn’t the only person confused.

But then the moo-vee or whatever the mage outside called it started, and Ashe was transported to a world of color and sound like he’d never seen before. Not realizing this was a screening labeled as a tragedy, he felt his heart swell with warmth as the oddly handsome Lion taught his cub.. only for it to be ripped away when they were betrayed by the lion’s own brother. (Ashe had to hold himself back from crying at that point. He’s not ashamed to admit it!)

Thankfully the little cub was rescued and raised by a gay lemur and warthog (odd combination, but who was he to judge). What followed was a tale of self discovery, justice and heroism.

…didn’t he read a chivalric tale before with a very similar plot?

When the moo-vee ended, Ashe suddenly felt thankful for the tissues he brought in so he could wipe away the forming tears before the lights turned back on. “Wow… that was amazing….!” He turned to the girl sitting next to him, voice still a little choked up. “Can you believe magic just let us watch that? That was amazing..! I can’t believe they turned that novel into a story about animals, but it fit so well…!”

Excitedly he kept chattering on for a little bit about all the similarities between the novel and this film. It wasn’t until he hit the five minute mark that he realized he was just geeking out about a book to a total stranger. “Ack! Sorry, that was kind of boring wasn’t it? Ahaha..” A little embarrassed, a hand went to the back of his neck. “Here, as a thank you for listening to me.” Trying to salvage things a little, he handed her one of his flowers.

[lunaestice]

[ GODDESS TOWER ] - No effort has been spared in surveillance or suspicion this year, and you know as much now that you find yourself alongside another answering to an ornery guard the moment you entered its vicinity.

Taking a break before re-entering the bustling of the ball was much obliged for Minerva who finally managed to slip away from the large ballroom just to ended up into something she wasn’t sure how to put it: a young student (a very familiar face, indeed) apparently being harassed by a guard, or what it seemed like a guard patrolling the main area of the ball, since no other knights were put on surveillance, as far as Minerva knew.

As she walked closer, trying to understand the reason behind the turmoil of the guard, she noticed the boy's bright bouquet of flowers, completely similar to hers and obviously a wise choice, since it perfectly matched the outfit of the young student.

“What’s the problem here?” she directly addressed the guard, then giving a reassuring look at the young boy, “Don’t worry, I’m sure it’s a mistake”

It really was an accident that he ended up in a restricted area. Taking a break in the outside gardens, he spotted a small kitten pulling a sausage off of a plate one of the ball attendees had left behind. Usually when a kitten is the one hunting for food, it means the mother isn’t well.. or worse. Ashe couldn’t let it be so he followed the poor thing.. not realizing he followed it into the Goddess tower.

Naturally one of the guards spotted him, but the man began to berate him before giving him even a chance to explain! “As I said before, I-“ he tried again, only to get cut off. Again. “You think I’m born yesterday kid? I’ve heard it all at this point! I should report you for misconduct!”

He was about to panic, but thankfully before it could get to that point another knight stepped in. She managed to cool things off before the knight could really blow his top, and as he left Ashe let out a sigh of relief.

“Thank you so much, ma’am!” He smiled gratefully at her, giving a bow of respect. “I really didn’t mean to come here, but… I think a cat might’ve nested around here somewhere. I just wanted to make sure it’s safe.”

“I know I shouldn’t be here, but..” He really shouldn’t stay here any longer, but he knew he wouldn’t be able to think about anything else if he didn’t make sure the kitten was safe.. “Would it be a problem if we looked around together? I’ll happily give you one of my flowers, so.. please.”

As he said that, he held out one of the blue flowers from his bouquet.

[surebow]

noble expectations

TOA Ball 2026

[surebow]

Innes was always on his best behaviour for such events. He was polite, courteous, and even charming when he wanted to be - bar the obvious exceptions, of course.

He made himself available to everyone; commoners and nobles alike. It didn't matter in an event like this, not when most were dressed to the nines. He moved from person to person, offering each a turn. Some names he knew, a surprising amount of names he did not.

He would have to change that - starting with the boy in front of him.

If Innes had to guess, he'd say the boy was about fifteen years old. Regardless, Innes extended a hand out to him. "Would you care for a dance?"

It couldn't be so bad. If the boy couldn't dance, Innes could teach him - so long as his toes remained unbroken for the rest of the night.

@lunaestice

[lunaestice]

Ashe had decided, this would be the song where’d he’d put himself out there. It would’ve just been sad if he put in so much effort to attend the a ball just to stand on the sidelines the whole time, after all.

Only problem was that anyone he knew and could see was already accounted for at the moment. Thankfully that problem wouldn’t last for long as, much to his surprise, someone else approached him first. “..with me?” He pointed towards himself, blinking a few times. “If you don’t mind then.. I’d be glad to, thank you!”

Like he’d been practicing, as was proper for this type of song, he put one hand on the other person’s shoulder, while his other hand held onto the man’s. “Like this.. right? Sorry, um.. I’m still a bit of a novice when it comes to dancing, haha.”

[lunaestice]

Clair de Lune is composed by de-who now?

TOA ball 2026, cont from here

[lunaestice]

A part of him briefly wondered if he was seeing things. Was it just him or did something about Sylvain seem… off, just now? Without meaning to, the boy’s brows furrow slightly. “I already said I’m not looking for anyone. And If I do, I…” Something about Sylvain’s words made his chest tighten uncomfortably. “I want to be with someone I love. Things like crests or status… they don’t matter to me.”

To dehumanize people like that felt wrong. Treating love like it’s just another choice to make, as if you’re deciding what food you want to eat, felt wrong. To tie your life to someone else is supposed to be a wonderful, happy thing. Many stories end with its protagonist finding love, and with it finding new happiness. A part of him wanted to feel angry, to scold Sylvain for even saying such a thing. But then a different realization hit him.

What a lonely way to view the world that must be.

“Are those really things you have to think about, Sylvain?” That anger subsided just as quickly as it came, but replacing it was a feeling that wasn’t much better. Despite being adopted by a nobleman, Lonato never put any of those expectations on him. If anything, his adoptive father always encouraged him to seek his own path in life, to do what he believed was right. As a result he never really knew what life really was like for a real noble heir.

His eyes wander to the taller boy standing next to him. “I’m sorry. It was probably a little insensitive of me then to say something like that.”

[ruinedskys]

Admittedly, Sylvain doesn’t spend much time around Ashe. A bow specialty versus Sylvain’s lance - and even then, he made appearances to practice only as much as strictly necessary. Unless it was Ingrid’s disapproval or Felix’s disdain or even Dimitri who he felt compelled to trail behind on any given day. 

So the other’s whirlwind of emotion catches him off guard, the poisonous response like acid on his tongue where he holds it and waits. 

A lot of people have Ashe’s ideals. Find love and hold onto it at all costs. It’s the sweetest sort of daydream, but Sylvain knows that what lays on the other side of that dream isn’t the starry eyed ideal. It’s heartbreak. It’s pain and betrayal and the ultimate realization that they are the same as the Hero’s Relics they wield. Expensive trinkets and nothing more. 

Through it all, Sylvain hears himself laugh. Lighthearded if a little confused, tongue still stinging with what he wants to say. “Who, me? Nah, I’m not worried about any of that.” He’s really not, because Sylvain will never be taken a fool by someone pretending to love him. Ashe, though? He braces a hand on his shoulder, stone-faced and serious as any battle they’ve ever had. “You though. You’re an easy target for anyone who wants to wedge their way into a noble family. Sure, you don’t have a crest but - I bet there are a lot of people who’d be grateful for the step up.” And then they’d discard Ashe as a token whose value is no longer the accepted currency.

Sylvain was willing to bet that none of that was in those books Ashe liked to bring to class.

[lunaestice]

“So I’m supposed to treat everyone I meet with suspicion?” Ashe crossed his arms with a slightly displeased expression. “I know there are bad people out there… trust me, I know.” The boy’s tone of voice suggested he really did understand. “But if I refuse to open up how am I supposed to find that one person? Or.. anyone, really.” While it’s true that he preferred believing in the best of people, that didn’t make him as naive as Sylvain seemed to think he was. Because it was conviction that gave him the ability to believe.

Once he was a knight, how could he inspire trust in others if he wasn’t willing to trust them in return? And if someday his trust would end up hurting him.. he’d prefer that to the alternative. He’d rather trust and get hurt than to push people away and lose someone he could have bonded with. Or worse than that, risk failing someone who genuinely needed help.

“I appreciate your concern, don’t get me wrong, but I’ll be okay.” The people he’s chosen to trust have gotten him this far, after all.

[lunaestice]

Clair de Lune is composed by de-who now?

TOA ball 2026, cont from here

[lunaestice]

At the other boy’s words, Ashe couldn’t help but laugh lightly, bringing a hand to his lips as he did. “I’m just being honest, Sylvain. I only had a few lessons before the ball, but none of them were as enjoyable.” It also meant his first real dance wasn’t a total failure. Though he was only adopted, he was still Lonato’s son. And making a poor impression here would probably reflect badly. That’s the last thing he’d want!

As Sylvain moves to the side of the floor, Ashe walks along with him. And then he asks that question. The question that, when asked, caused Ashe to blush a deep red. “What?! No, it.. it’s nothing like that! I don’t have anyone in mind..” Suddenly everything else seemed a lot more interesting, as he tried to look everywhere except at Sylvain directly. Just thinking about romance kind of made his head spin. Sure, he’d love to one day have the kind of romance they write novels about, the kinds heroes of old had. But he was just 16 and had so many other things to focus on first!

Also.. there’s one difference between him and a majority of the heroes he’s read about.

“B-Besides, I, um…” His voice lowers in volume slightly. It’s not that this was something he felt embarrassed about to say, just.. the topic in general left him a bit flustered. “I.. I don’t really have an interest in girls in that way…”

[ruinedskys]

It’s rare that someone wears their heart on their sleeve like this.

Sylvain almost feels bad for him, but it’s tells like these that remind him that Ashe is a commoner at heart. Having been adopted, there isn’t the same kind of weight hanging on his slim shoulders…so maybe he can just afford to tell Sylvain all of his secrets. 

Not that he doesn’t like secrets! He’s just caught a little off guard by it, is all, which is how he excuses the way the hand he’d placed at his hip ruffles through his carefully styled hair. The other gets shoved in his pockets in attempt to keep his gestures to a minimum. “No?” He’s hit with a wave of bitterness that he expects. It doesn’t make it any easier to swallow. “Hey, that’s no problem. There are plenty of guys out there too.”

A beat passes, Sylvain can’t help himself. “Just can’t pick any heirs. Definitely no one with a crest can look twice at you -” All of the above were off-limits one way or the other. They had to produce heirs. It was their only function. “Probably a commoner…but that wouldn’t help Gaspard in any way. So…your options aren’t all that great, but if you point out some people you’re attracted to, we can start narrowing it down.”

[lunaestice]

A part of him briefly wondered if he was seeing things. Was it just him or did something about Sylvain seem… off, just now? Without meaning to, the boy’s brows furrow slightly. “I already said I’m not looking for anyone. And If I do, I…” Something about Sylvain’s words made his chest tighten uncomfortably. “I want to be with someone I love. Things like crests or status… they don’t matter to me.”

To dehumanize people like that felt wrong. Treating love like it’s just another choice to make, as if you’re deciding what food you want to eat, felt wrong. To tie your life to someone else is supposed to be a wonderful, happy thing. Many stories end with its protagonist finding love, and with it finding new happiness. A part of him wanted to feel angry, to scold Sylvain for even saying such a thing. But then a different realization hit him.

What a lonely way to view the world that must be.

“Are those really things you have to think about, Sylvain?” That anger subsided just as quickly as it came, but replacing it was a feeling that wasn’t much better. Despite being adopted by a nobleman, Lonato never put any of those expectations on him. If anything, his adoptive father always encouraged him to seek his own path in life, to do what he believed was right. As a result he never really knew what life really was like for a real noble heir.

His eyes wander to the taller boy standing next to him. “I’m sorry. It was probably a little insensitive of me then to say something like that.”

[seawardoath]

@lunaestice: cont

Standing on the side, watching as pairs of students danced to the music like it was the most natural thing in the world, Ashe only became more keenly aware just how different of a world they lived in. It wasn’t that he envied them or resented them. Nobody asks to be born the way they are, after all. It was just a fact that they were different, just like it’s a fact that the sky is blue. It being a fact didn’t make the difference any less intimidating at times though. The cup in his hand made what, the third chilled beverage he had? All in the name of trying to cool off his nerves. When one of the people setting the tables appeared to get closer to him, briefly the boy wondered if he was in trouble somehow for drinking too much. Thankfully for him (and his poor heart) the man seemed to only be here for conversation. “What? Oh, no!” Was he eyeing one person for too long? Was his infatuation too obvious? (Not that he was actually interested in someone right now… of course.) The boy laughed softly, a slight flush to his freckled cheeks. “I was just.. thinking about joining the others on the dance floor. But I keep psyching myself out, ahaha….” “It really is so different, when you’ve been taught to dance since you were young. I only just recently started learning myself.” Green eyes then flit towards the man, watching him work. “Would you.. perhaps like some help? I’d rather be of use to someone than just stand around all night.”

Ronan has never been one for words of comfort, his mother being a woman hard enough to make up for the father he never knew, so instead he just nods his head sympathetically and slides a new - the fourth - glass out from his arrangement over toward the other boy. He thinks at first to tell him that he doesn't really need the help - that the work isn't that demanding and he's been rationing it to keep himself busy anyway - but if he were in his place, he might long for something to do with his hands, too.

"Sure. I don't think anyone will mind." He nods to a box sitting on a chair nearby. It's full of champagne glasses filled with ciders and punch from the ice box in the kitchen. "And if they do, you can just say you're really thirsty."

He takes two more from the box and adds them to the arrangement, which is beginning to look like a triangle.

"I know what you mean, though. These nobles look like they were born knowing all the steps to every ballroom dance, but don't you think it looks sort of rigid?"

He nods to the floor now, where the couples in the middle are engaged in a box step of some kind.

"Elegant, I guess. But not fun at all. You're only learning now because--" Ronan trails off with a hum, turning to look his temporary help over from head to toe, thinking, considering his attire but mostly the freckles across his cheeks. He thinks that maybe this was someone who had spent more time outside than any privileged lifestyle would demand; if he could see his hands he'd know for sure, but the gloves tell him little. Still, Ronan finds him easy to talk to - forthright and unassuming, nothing like what he'd come to expect from noblemen.

"--you never expected you'd inherit a title until recently. Am I right?"

[lunaestice]

“Thank you! I promise, I won’t get in the way!” The boy smiled gratefully as he got to work setting up the glasses. This felt like a much more familiar sort of motion, more than dancing ever did anyway. And while Ashe worked on setting the table, he listened to the older man’s musings.

He was a frank sort of guy, huh? Ashe couldn’t find himself disagreeing with anything he said, but speaking your mind like that was pretty brave.. Then again, it made for a comfortable conversation. He much preferred people who were honest over those who lied with honeyed words anyway.

“Rigid is a pretty apt way of putting it.” Ashe laughed lightly at the comment, covering his mouth with one gloved hand as he did. “Not that I can blame them.. if their lessons had been anything like mine, they’ve been taught to follow a script.”

It was more about making a good impression than to have fun, which Ashe had a feeling Ronan understood.

“As for me, um…” He looked slightly shocked, eyes widening at how close the older man got to his situation. “I wouldn’t say I’m inheriting a title, exactly.” He knew that was a possibility, somewhere in the back of his mind.. but it was never his position to take. It was Christophe’s. And he knew how much Lonato suffered after losing his only true son.. so Ashe never wanted to hurt him by bringing up the topic of inheritance. Because of this, what would happen to House Gaspard after Lonato stepped down.. was uncertain to Ashe. “I was adopted by a very kind nobleman a few years back, though. It’s also because of him that I’m able to attend this school at all, despite just being a commoner.”

Gratitude, admiration and love all shone through in the way Ashe described his adoptive father. He always looked up to Lonato, ever since he extended his hand and saved him and his siblings.

“But I’m still his adopted son. If I didn’t know how to dance, even a little… I was worried it would make him look bad. Though, I guess being a wall-flower probably also doesn’t do that any favors, ahaha….” He laughed, in a slightly self deprecating tone. “What about you? Am I right to assume you’ve only gotten involved with the nobility pretty recently yourself?”

[lunaestice]

Clair de Lune is composed by de-who now?

TOA ball 2026, cont from here

[lunaestice]

“Handsome? Me? R-Really??” Ashe practically squeaked out, as freckled cheeks redden into a deep pinkish red color. “I.. I don’t really think I’m anything special, you cut a much more gallant figure than me!” The knight aspirant always thought that, if Sylvain applied himself a little more, he could become a truly admirable knight. He’s got charm and strength in spades, after all! And he’s only ever been kind to him. Sure, there are unsavory rumors but.. Ashe always had his doubts about them.

As if to prove Ashe’s thoughts further, Sylvain accepts his offer. He guides them into the correct starting position and, when the taller boy puts his hand on his hip, Ashe tries to follow by copying what he remembered from his few lessons, putting his free hand on Sylvain’s shoulder.

“Wait. L-Lovers?” Green doe eyes widen, like that of a deer caught in front of a carriage. He’d been so focused on proper form, it wasn’t until just now that he finally processed Sylvain’s words. A part of him internally begins to freak out. Not helped by the eyes he feels boring into his back.

But then the music picks up again and before he can change his mind the dance begins proper, Ashe constantly looking down- both to coordinate the way his feet are moving, but also to try and keep himself calm.

And then it starts to feel kind of fun. The other boy is obviously the more experienced one, but the steps were easy enough to follow along, only further encouraged by Sylvain’s praise. Stares began to matter less, as his focus shifted on just.. having fun with a friend.

When they finally part as the music stops, Ashe felt notably calmer than before. A part of him thinks he usually wouldn’t. “That.. was really fun! You’re a great teacher Sylvain, thank you.” He said, gratitude clear from the way his lips curled up into a smile and his eyes sparkled.

@ruinedskys

[ruinedskys]

Some people are that easy to please. 

Now that his hands are free, he puts them behind his head, careful not to ruffle the style of his hair as he does. “You think so?” He’s already shaking his head, in no small part to the clear joy in Ashe’s expression. It makes laughing easy, hand sliding from the back of his head to pull over his heart. “Ah, you really know how to complement a guy. My heart can’t take it.”

Nevermind that it’d take a lot more practice for Ashe to do it on his own. To lead a partner rather than follow, but that was normal. By next year who knew? He’d be a proper Kingdom noble dancer. 

“So,” He steps to the side of the floor to make room for the other dancers encroaching on their space. “Has anyone here caught your eye? Who’s the lucky girl?” Sylvain thinks he knows the answer to both…but would it be as fun if he didn’t ask anyway? The flash of panic he’d leveled him with just learning that the dance was for couples was all the answer he really needed.

[lunaestice]

At the other boy’s words, Ashe couldn’t help but laugh lightly, bringing a hand to his lips as he did. “I’m just being honest, Sylvain. I only had a few lessons before the ball, but none of them were as enjoyable.” It also meant his first real dance wasn’t a total failure. Though he was only adopted, he was still Lonato’s son. And making a poor impression here would probably reflect badly. That’s the last thing he’d want!

As Sylvain moves to the side of the floor, Ashe walks along with him. And then he asks that question. The question that, when asked, caused Ashe to blush a deep red. “What?! No, it.. it’s nothing like that! I don’t have anyone in mind..” Suddenly everything else seemed a lot more interesting, as he tried to look everywhere except at Sylvain directly. Just thinking about romance kind of made his head spin. Sure, he’d love to one day have the kind of romance they write novels about, the kinds heroes of old had. But he was just 16 and had so many other things to focus on first!

Also.. there’s one difference between him and a majority of the heroes he’s read about.

“B-Besides, I, um…” His voice lowers in volume slightly. It’s not that this was something he felt embarrassed about to say, just.. the topic in general left him a bit flustered. “I.. I don’t really have an interest in girls in that way…”

[lunaestice]

Red and Blue, I love you!

(Deirdre and Ashe, making chocolates)

[lunaestice]

Dessert making was something Ashe had always enjoyed, just as much as making savory foods. So upon learning there was a chocolatier offering lessons on making your own chocolates naturally the boy was quick to sign up, the decadent sweet being one he never quite had the opportunity to master.

As his own chocolates finished chilling, the boy steadily pushed each one out of the mould. The treats were shaped like little hearts, filled with a jam on the inside. They were supposed to be friendship chocolates, something to show his classmates his appreciation for having gotten the chance to learn with them.

However, as the topic of love kept being brought up by both the chocolatier as well as his fellow students naturally his mind began to wander. To a certain person he found himself admiring more and more..

His initial decision to make regular squares changed into hearts. A commonly liked caramel filling became a more specific flavor of Albinean berry jam.

“I wonder if he’d like these….” The boy found himself wondering, before promptly shaking his head to get rid of the thoughts- as well as the slight reddish tint that threatened to blossom on his cheeks.

@nagaficat

[nagaficat]

"Do you mind if I join you?" Deirdre asks Ashe as she approaches the empty spot at his work station. There are other places she could work in the seminar but Ashe seems to be the only participant without anyone else near him. It is the season for the Day of Devotion and it does make her a bit sad to think that someone might be alone during a time of year dedicated towards spending time with others.

And this does make a lovely excuse to get to know him. He may not be one of her own Black Eagles students but that hardly matters.

"I have never made anything like this before. Everything I learned to make growing up had to be created with ingredients I grew or foraged myself. It will be exciting to try something new."

She leans in, a sly but knowing smile sliding across her lips. "And I am sure he will be overjoyed just to know you created something just for him."

[lunaestice]

“Oh! Yes, of course!” Ashe said with a smile, carefully moving his belongings to one end of the bench so that the unfamiliar lady could put her stuff on the other side. Working alone was fine, but it was always more fun to cook with someone else after all. “I just finished my first batch, but there’s enough ingredients left to make more.”

Ashe then carefully listened to her speak as she explained her unfamiliarity with the lesson’s topic. “You grew your own food? That’s amazing!” The boy replied delightedly. “My parents used to do the same thing. You can taste the love if you grow em yourself, they always said.” He thought back to those times fondly. Times spent digging in their yard for fresh ingredients.

“But I’d be happy to help with the chocolates! I’m not exactly a master, but I know my way around a kitchen.” None of the equipment given to them had been unfamiliar. At most, their application took some getting used to, here and there.

But then she brought up him, and suddenly that red tint he’d been trying so hard to hide came back in full force. “Huh?! N-No, these are… ahem, I made them for all my friends! Not just… one guy in particular….” At least that was the initial idea. But looking at the chocolate hearts staring back at him… yeah. Flustered his fingers went to the strings of his hoodie, lightly tugging on them as suddenly the room around them got a lot more interesting, eyes flitting about.

[nagaficat]

Deirdre is glad she chose this spot to work. This student seems sweet and she feels already as though they both must have at least some things in common. As she begins to examine the ingredients in front of her, she hopes even more opportunities will present themselves.

"Let us help each other then, hm?" The heart shapes he has chosen for his chocolates do not escape her. There were other molds available. Circles, squares, shapes more suited to all of his friends. But she does not judge and she does not tease. "I am hoping to make mine for someone special, too."

She realizes that she does not yet know this young man's name and quickly holds out her hand in greeting. He does not know hers either. "Oh but my manners! I am Deirdre, a professor with the Black Eagles."

[lunaestice]

“I-It’s a pleasure, Professor Deirdre!” The boy sweetly smiled, taking her hand and giving it a polite shake. “My name is Ashe. I’m a student of the Blue Lions.” Something about her made Ashe feel at ease. Perhaps it was her kindly mannerisms, or the way she spoke. Either way, the boy was more than happy to work with her.

“If the chocolates are for someone special, then.. do you have an idea for what kind of flavor you want to give them?” He asked with a slight tilt of his head. Briefly, he wondered who this special person could be. Surely a lady like her would have a husband or wife, right? ….would that be rude to ask?

“There’s plenty of fruit available for us to use. There’s also flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon.. oh! And if your gift is for an adult, there’s even flavored liquors you can use. Though I’m not allowed to handle those ingredients, ahaha…” The boy listed off the ingredients he recalled seeing, hoping that would be helpful in choosing a flavor.

[inserviceto]

All Men Are Not Created Equal

Epidemic +1 Bow

[lunaestice]

Despite the dangerous situation, the boy couldn’t help but be slightly awestruck. The man’s words were familiar to him, of course. So many nights he’s spent reading tales of heroic figures following a similar creed. Seeing those words applied in reality was inspiring. “Leave it to us, sir! I’ll do my best!” He said proudly, inspired by the man’s display of courage and valor.

Green eyes, usually wide and innocent, narrowed in a look of intense focus as Ashe drew an arrow and pulled back his bowstring in a familiar motion. Around them, other archers had already begun their attack with arrows flying towards the beast.

But the demonic beast flapped its massive wings, screeching as powerful gusts knocked most arrows off course. Those that manage to strike true only scathing its off-putting leathery skin.

“Ugh… it’s really disturbing….” The monster’s pulsating veins and unnatural looking beak could make most people feel queasy. Ashe tried his best to suppress the way the bird both intimidated and disgusted him though; He had a mission, and he would fulfill it with courage.

He waited until the monster would pull back its wings again in preparation for another massive gust. Then, the boy took a deep breath and…. “Now!”

Slender fingers let go of the arrow, and it sailed through the air at incredible speed until lodging itself into the joint of the monster’s left wing. In response, the gigantic bird let out a pained screech, struggling to keep its wing flapping.

[inserviceto]

Though they were primarily armed with bows and had a fair amount of manpower to face these massive creatures, that didn't mean they would go down without a fight. There's the rapid-fire sound of multiple arrows being loosed at their target, but hardly any make their mark as the beast rears back to thrust a terrific whirlwind at them with a mighty beat of its wings.

What few arrows did make it through the blast of wind scrape harmless over its leathery hide.

But then, as the creature eases off to recover from the effort of flapping its wings hard enough to create such forces, it reels back with a pained scream. One of the arrows had made a decisive hit, robbing the creature of easily using one of its wings -- and Harken is impressed to see that it had been Ashe to do it. Not only was it a less than ideal shot to take, but he'd had the wherewithal to hold off until the beast had tired itself out and was left open.

"A fine shot!" Harken remarks, glancing over his shoulder just long enough to make eye contact with the student. "Now that it cannot flee to the skies so easily, all we must do is end it swiftly."

Malformed as it was, it did not deserve to suffer in light of the sacrifice it was going to make for them.

"It will get desperate now that it cannot escape us, though, so do not let down your guard." With it more or less grounded, this gave Harken the chance to more effectively carry out his own role and draw as much of its aggression away from the archers as he could. The flat of his sword cracks against his shield -- once, twice, three times -- drawing the maddened gaze of the creature and its ire along with it.

Grounded as it was, it still had brute strength and size to contend with -- and that meant a devastating reach.

Its sharp beak digs into the earth with little resistance as Harken barely manages to avoid it, dirt and rock spraying as the beast shakes its head free and shrieks in rage. The beast's attention, however, does not stay on the knight as he wishes it to, and Harken scrambles to reassert himself between it and several of their bowmen.

[lunaestice]

Watching sir Harken rush into the fray was both awe inspiring and a little nerve wracking simultaneously. To be a knight was to have courage and risk your wellbeing for the sake of others, that much he knew. Being on the receiving end of that protection however, knowing he was doing it to give them a safe chance to attack.. definitely made Ashe appreciate that courage even more.

With the beast’s focus being on Harken, Ashe took the opening the knight created to draw another arrow, looking for an opening to shut down both of its wings. But with it moving so erratically, finding a clean shot was difficult.

To make matters worse it seemed to have become wise to Harken’s attempt to distract it, its unnerving eyes locking on to the boy that had injured its wing. Despite being grounded it could still rush forward with surprising speed, and like it tried to do with the knight before, the beast plunged its beak towards where Ashe was standing.

Just barely, the archer was able to roll out of the way, narrowly avoiding a grievous injury. But the sheer impact of the beast hitting the ground caused a tremor. As a result Ashe lost his balance, falling to the ground painfully.

In the time it took for him to regain his bearings, the beast had already lifted up its head again and prepared for a second strike now that the boy was downed.

[lunaestice]

Clair de Lune is composed by de-who now?

TOA ball 2026, cont from here

[lunaestice]

“Handsome? Me? R-Really??” Ashe practically squeaked out, as freckled cheeks redden into a deep pinkish red color. “I.. I don’t really think I’m anything special, you cut a much more gallant figure than me!” The knight aspirant always thought that, if Sylvain applied himself a little more, he could become a truly admirable knight. He’s got charm and strength in spades, after all! And he’s only ever been kind to him. Sure, there are unsavory rumors but.. Ashe always had his doubts about them.

As if to prove Ashe’s thoughts further, Sylvain accepts his offer. He guides them into the correct starting position and, when the taller boy puts his hand on his hip, Ashe tries to follow by copying what he remembered from his few lessons, putting his free hand on Sylvain’s shoulder.

“Wait. L-Lovers?” Green doe eyes widen, like that of a deer caught in front of a carriage. He’d been so focused on proper form, it wasn’t until just now that he finally processed Sylvain’s words. A part of him internally begins to freak out. Not helped by the eyes he feels boring into his back.

But then the music picks up again and before he can change his mind the dance begins proper, Ashe constantly looking down- both to coordinate the way his feet are moving, but also to try and keep himself calm.

And then it starts to feel kind of fun. The other boy is obviously the more experienced one, but the steps were easy enough to follow along, only further encouraged by Sylvain’s praise. Stares began to matter less, as his focus shifted on just.. having fun with a friend.

When they finally part as the music stops, Ashe felt notably calmer than before. A part of him thinks he usually wouldn’t. “That.. was really fun! You’re a great teacher Sylvain, thank you.” He said, gratitude clear from the way his lips curled up into a smile and his eyes sparkled.

@ruinedskys

[lunaestice]

[ GOSSIP ] A uniform wasn't enough to fit in. Usually there was something else that would give you away as not being "one of them." The boy who hovers nervously near the wall not too far from where Ronan rearranges the unclaimed glasses has that "something" about him despite his expensive attire. It's his face, maybe, familiar in ways Ronan can't quite name but can nevertheless feel. He sidles close enough for conversation as he continues setting the refreshment table.

"Nobody's caught your eye yet?"

Standing on the side, watching as pairs of students danced to the music like it was the most natural thing in the world, Ashe only became more keenly aware just how different of a world they lived in. It wasn’t that he envied them or resented them. Nobody asks to be born the way they are, after all. It was just a fact that they were different, just like it’s a fact that the sky is blue.

It being a fact didn’t make the difference any less intimidating at times though. The cup in his hand made what, the third chilled beverage he had? All in the name of trying to cool off his nerves. When one of the people setting the tables appeared to get closer to him, briefly the boy wondered if he was in trouble somehow for drinking too much. Thankfully for him (and his poor heart) the man seemed to only be here for conversation.

“What? Oh, no!” Was he eyeing one person for too long? Was his infatuation too obvious? (Not that he was actually interested in someone right now… of course.) The boy laughed softly, a slight flush to his freckled cheeks. “I was just.. thinking about joining the others on the dance floor. But I keep psyching myself out, ahaha….”

“It really is so different, when you’ve been taught to dance since you were young. I only just recently started learning myself.” Green eyes then flit towards the man, watching him work. “Would you.. perhaps like some help? I’d rather be of use to someone than just stand around all night.”

[lunaestice]

A knight must always strive for excellence, no matter where he applies himself. Many stories feature chapters as well where brave heroes find themselves attending lavish events amongst nobility.

But Ashe was not quite yet a full fledged knight. Green eyes flitted about, as a gloved hand adjusted his collar for what felt like the millionth time that night. On a normal day he already wondered if he truly belonged here- but with everyone around him dressed up in their best finery? That feeling increased a thousandfold.

In preparation for the event he had requested his adoptive father to send something suitable- just enough for him to fit in. Nothing too lavish. Somewhere that request seemed to have gotten off track (most likely due to his siblings’ influence, he imagined), as what he received was striking, in a way that made him feel handsome and mortified all at once.

Deep breaths. Be brave. Be confident! Go for it!

-

Ashe has Hyacinths!

Tracker

Roses: Mauvier

Orchids: Panette

Lilies: Sara

Hyacinths: Minerva

Tulips: Camilla

Outfit under cut:

[lunaestice]

[ TXT ]: Ashe! I haven't been able to see you in a while!

[ TXT ]: I heard you were hard at work, top student as you are. What were you thinking of doing after you graduated?

[ TXT ] : Hi Ferdinand! Sorry I haven’t been to the extracurricular classes recently 🥺

[ TXT ] : Coworker got really sick so I’ve been covering her shifts. Hoping to come back soon though! 😊

[ TXT ] : So while I’ve been working it’s not quite what you might think ahaha 😅 I dunno if I’m exactly top student material either

[ TXT ] : But! I’m not actually sure yet what’s next for me. I’m thinking about going into either Law or Culinary school… much to think about 🤔

[ TXT ] : Is this because of the upcoming career orientation?

[ TXT ] : I’m sure whatever you decide on doing, you’ll be amazing! 😄