CANDLE IN THE WIND

"I'm so sorry for all this... so sorry. And I'm sorry it's me greeting you, instead of someone better..." alcryst with the knights of seiros, toa aff.

[starrook]

"Hosting tea parties, lectures, and dancing—is there anything you can't do?" Sara laughs in his face as though telling a joke, but her smile radiates warmth found only in sincerity.

That last performance he gave during the semi-finals of the White Heron Cup had been something special even to her uninitiated eyes. Normally applause should be accompanied by a bouquet of abundant flowers, but considering the theme, one spider lilly should suffice here.

"Here, I want you to have this."

"Doing them at all doesn't mean I did it well..." Alcryst protests weakly. He already knows it's a poor argument though, especially considering his and Lapis' respectable placement in the White Heron Cup. So he swallows back his denial and tries a small, grateful smile instead. "Um, thank you, though. I appreciate that you think so highly of me."

Sara, in her usual strange way, offers Alcryst an equally strange flower. It reminds him of fireworks, an explosion of red with vibrant tendrils bursting outward. At the same time, with how numerous those thin appendages are and how they curl just slightly inward, Alcryst can't help but think of a dying spider, or maybe a particularly hairy caterpillar. "A flower?" Alcryst asks, unsure. Suddenly he wonders if there's some secret meaning behind it. Maybe this one means, I secretly hate you...

[rafent]

✦ 𝐈'𝐌 𝐌𝐑. 𝐑𝐀𝐅𝐀𝐋 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆. 𝐈'𝐌 𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐓. 𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐁𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐃. 𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐘 𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐁𝐈𝐓 ✧

Mission Board: Anniversary 2025, faith +1

[rafent]

A hop onto his arm; a skip onto his shoulder; then. . .a kiss?

"You—"

Intelligence and confusion warred at the sensation of not one, not two, but several little presses of those slimy lips upon his own cheek. Offering a wordless form of communication, a presumed answer to the uncertainties which Rafal voiced aloud, piece by piece formed the picture, scruple by scruple perfected the wary understanding; that which he did not in any thousands of years wish to believe.

"Oh, no! Do not be ridiculous. There is no magic in any world that can be dispelled by something as frivolous as a kiss. More importantly, what mage in their right mind would decide that to be the remedy?" A cruel mage, no doubt. As cruel and torturing as Rafal had so recently been whilst poking the frog.

. . .No, he thought, gazing at that frog's face. Perhaps even crueler.

At the behest of its appearance, he was cursed to indulge a far-fetched timeline. For the fraction of a second, he imagined the tearful applause and wedding bells that would magically manifest at the meet of two lips as if out of nowhere; the loving ceremony and future that would succeed them. Frog and dragon, defined by kiss, then love, then family. The strange, hybrid sort - a mix of saurian scale and smooth froggy flesh, with wide-set eyes and a long tongue, an equal distribution of genes or perhaps one unfair. A fierce contest between pale hair and some ilk nebulously darker. Greener? And, then—

He banished his cheek, and that fantastical vision, to the opposite side. "Absolutely not." Absolutely. Definitively. Categorically. Not.

[starrook]

Rafal protests the cure for this curse as if Alcryst had any say in the matter. If anyone should be complaining about having to kiss an ugly, pathetic frog, it ought to be Lapis. He leaps off of the fell dragon's shoulder when he turns his cheek away, saying Absolutely not. Absolutely not...!

Wait a minute. Surely Rafal doesn't actually think... but how else could he have possibly taken it? A horrified Alcryst lets out a shrill croak to grab Rafal's attention, then does everything he can to express a rejection of that idea too. He shakes his head. He makes gagging sounds and even pretends to vomit, as if the idea itself sickens him. I don't want to do that either!!

[starrook]

bröther, i crave Violence

+1 gauntlets

[heriteur]

Diamant bursts out of the back door, his eyes wildly scanning the area. Messily stacked crates, a scurrying rat, an incessant drip of water... his stride is rushed as he walks through the back alley, gaze going to the ground. Footprints were haphazard and layered over each other—clearly the sign of several people going to and fro. Probably the workers. But, still...

"Oi! Somethin' I can do for ya?"

He looks up to the new voice, met with the sight of a man jogging towards him from the opposite end of the alleyway. "Looks like yer lost, fella." The man, dressed in work pants and a dirty white shirt, chuckles, nodding to Diamant's own clothes. "And I dunno, you seem a bit too fancy to be wanderin' around these parts."

The Brodian pauses, gauging the man before him. His clothes looked like that of a worker, but didn't match what was worn in the restaurant. The town didn't have a dock, so he couldn't be from there... maybe he was delivering cargo, but...

"I'm fine." Diamant answers simply, "Thank you for your concern, but if you'll excuse me..."

"Whoa! Whoa, whoa, whoa," The man suddenly grips Diamant's shoulder when he tries to walk past, and though he knows he could easily shake out of it, he stops more from confusion than anything. "C'mon now, none of that tough guy act. You really do look upset about somethin'. Or drunk off your ass, maybe. There anything wrong with accepting some help?

Diamant's brow furrows. "What? No, I—" It's at this point that he does try to shrug out of the man's hold, only to be alarmed by the strength of his grip. Fingers dig almost desperately into Diamant's shoulder, and his eyes narrow. "Is there something wrong with you? Why..."

His gaze lands on the man's fingers: namely, the faintly wiped smudges of red streaked across them.

Blood.

"...You alright there?" His voice grows cold. "You've got blood on you."

The man's eyes widen, but he quickly wipes the surprise away with a laugh. "Oh, that? Just cut my hand on a crate—"

"But there are no cuts on your hand."

"...Well..."

Diamant spins out of the man's grip, grabbing him by the wrist and twisting his arm behind his back. Roughly, he's pressed against the cold wall of the restaurant, and the Brodian leans close to his ear.

"Young man. Dark hair. You wouldn't happen to have seen him?"

"H-Hey, man...! I don't know what you're on, but—"

"Where," Diamant growls, twisting his arm tighter, "is he? Where is my brother?"

The man yelps. "AH, ah, aghhhh! B-brother!? Ah, shit..."

[starrook]

Staring death in the face, the man only has mere moments to make his move. He could throw away his life in slowing this behemoth down so that his partner has more time to meet with the client. The job, they had to complete the job, because there was a massive payout at the end that would make them as rich as kings. But a dead man can't collect.

"Th-That way!" The man frantically points the way he came, towards the woods. "Big beast of a man! He's the one you want! Nearly crushed that kid's skull in, he did!"

The professor has what he wants. Now the man tries to pry those bear claws off of his arms. He looks up at Diamant with eyes wild with fear, pleading, "Please, milord, that's all I know! I didn't do nothin'! Let me go!!"

----

The pounding in Alcryst's head makes it impossible to think straight. He thinks his captor has him slung over the shoulder, like a lamb being taken to slaughter. With his mouth gagged and this hood over his head, he can't even take a proper breath. Still, every fiber of his being tells him to fight, and so he continues to writhe and struggle against his captor. The threat of having his legs broken scares him. But to be slaughtered like an animal? That terrifies him.

[ninisdance]

the power of love.

White Heron Cup / Semifinals, Match 13

[ninisdance]

After the failure of her dance medley in the second round... Ah, but calling it a failure is too harsh when they have nonetheless reached the semifinals, isn’t it...? But then again, it was a failure in that it showcased the gap in skill between herself and Silque far more than it did the latter’s talent.

Because Ninian did not assure her she has talent merely for the sake of it, or as some paltry (and needless) comfort. No, being a dancer, she would never lie about such a thing. Silque may be unrefined due to lack of practice, yet she is a natural performer still... and all the more impressive for it.

One must hone one’s technique, if not to perfection then near enough to that; learn each and every step by heart, searing the choreography into one’s mind well enough to dance it backwards or from the middle; to then, and only then, perform while one dances. Surrendering oneself seems to be no effort at all — but the effortlessness is performance, too.

Silque, though, Silque begins from the end without even realizing she’s doing it. For a beginner to receive perfect scores twice is a feat already, let alone perfect scores for style, that most challenging of aspects to many a dancer. Ninian does not think she could properly express her admiration for the cleric if she tried.

Not in words, anyway. Yet much of style is in fact emotion, and so she returns to the first round’s ballad in spirit with the waltz from Ylisse. It may be fast-paced, but the cleric has shown she can keep up and the steps are easy... ... Ah.

Perhaps Silque’s confidence has suffered a blow after all, even if she herself does not realize it. The fault for that is Ninian’s and only Ninian’s, never mind that this dear girl has said otherwise. Even if the fault were Silque’s, it would not matter when she has only ever looked on a beast with kindness.

And so the dancer grips her hands more tightly still, pulls her in closer and makes it so her missteps are incorporated into the dance even in defiance of choreography, for knowing it means she can mold it.

She earns another perfect score for style, having surrendered herself to much more than the dance without trying; her second nine for technique, for if they are going to be harsh on her partner then she is going to leave no room for criticism; and eight for choreography, because she’s pinned her hopes on the right piece at last.

Not that she would have minded if they’d given her waltz a three, seeing as —

“ I do not care what scores they give you, ” she whispers, something unyielding as ice in her voice for the first time. “ No matter what, you were radiant to me, Silque. ”

Dance your hearts out, @milafaithful, @lazulienne, @starrook!

[milafaithful]

… But is there something she is missing?

So pondered the cleric as they stand behind the curtain, waiting for their cue. She shifts from foot to foot for last-minute practice, replaying Ninian's instructions over and over in her head. The words of a teacher, a partner, a friend; and so were those of Sister Greta, all those years ago in the priory, when she had rapped a ruler disapprovingly against Silque's knuckles and said:

You cannot heal from the heart. Temper the cast with form, and then infuse form with Mila's blessing.

So for this dance, when the lilting notes of the waltz begins, Silque pays attention, notices: the velvet of Ninian's golden shawl catches the overhead lights. The extension of their joined hands echoes the sweeping waterfall of Ninian's hair. The turns with the two of them pressed together masks Silque's characteristic stumbles; the alternating twirls sets Ninian's brocade gown and her own cotton skirt in contrast.

Yet all this seeing is still no trouble at all, because to notice Ninian is still to know that she is beautiful. You are radiant to me, too, the cleric doesn't get to reply, steady and sure, before her scores are revealed:

One in technique... okay, there's really no fixing that, Eight in choreography — but she'd finally gotten the steps right, this time! And a meager four in style, the announcer's voice sounding almost disappointed — still, the cleric merely nods, eyes brightening.

"It's a tradeoff…!" she whispers as they exit the stage, finally understanding. "I must lose myself in the dance, yes? But my movements must not be lost. That's… that's so difficult!" She wraps an arm around Ninian's elbow, leaning in with a laugh. "Is that what you've been trying to do all this time?"

Her own scores are no better or worse off than before, but if it's Ninian who finally receives her due flowers, Silque could not be more pleased. Mila willing, won't they get to try one more time?

[lazulienne]

    “Oh, that's...!” Lapis gasps softly in recognition of one of their next opponents. Ninian, the woman who'd seemed so demure and uncertain when they'd first met so many moons ago, needing to be led to find a way to illuminate a road for skills like hers. “Our next foe's tough, Alcryst,” she whispers to him. “She's a dancer I've worked with before for the Church. Her moves are no joke.”

Invigorating and special just like Seadall's— truly remarkable and as such daunting to be facing off against. It's no surprise that her and her chosen companion then have made it this many rounds in. If anything, Lapis is happy and proud to know she's found a way to be recognized like this.

What Lapis is less happy and proud to discover is that she recognizes the song playing. It's the exact same one that she'd been thrust into unexpectedly earlier tonight.

The fiery and almost excited expression Lapis had adopted, inspired to give things her all after seeing the commendable rival Flayn had been in attitude last round, completely dissipates. Lapis rushes to starting position with Alcryst, roughly pulling their bodies intimately close— closer than they've done in any round prior.

“Er, don't mind me...! Ahaha...”

(Gosh, does she even remember any of the moves in the Ylissean waltz?!?? When she wasn't too busy just being EMBARRASSED during it?!?!)

Before she knows it, she has to will them to move though in time with the music, whether or not she's ready. But the thought that she looks like she's practically coming onto Alcryst in PUBLIC, ready to pounce on him and feel him up in front of EVERYONE (at least with that stranger before, she was hidden in a CROWD!) makes her steps more unsteady than she wants. With each passing second, her face only blooms a deeper flush, fetching enough to make some judges watching bashful from the heated look she unknowingly keeps focused solely on her partner.

A six for style, conjuring up a mood of a heart-thumping love at odds with the scandalous edge to the dance. A three for choreography, hard to recognize as what it's meant to be at times, made worse when their opponents perform it practically flawlessly on the other end of the floor. A five for technique, nothing particularly noteworthy about how she executes what moves are performed...

“There's a part, um, where you're supposed to lift me coming up soon,” Lapis warns.

NEXT: @starrook !!

[starrook]

To be honest, Alcryst never imagined that they would make it past round one, never mind reaching the semifinals. He wouldn’t admit that to Lapis, of course; she’s in such high spirits after their second victory, and he wouldn’t want to say anything that would put a damper on her newfound confidence.

Lapis, on the other hand, manages to do that all on her own. That confidence melts as soon as the song starts playing, confusing Alcryst. This is the Ylissean waltz, isn’t it? He doesn’t know all the steps, but he never heard of it being particularly hard. Ninian steals the show almost immediately, dancing with near-flawless precision and style that immediately impresses Lapis. Her partner also puts up a solid performance. This pair is their stiffest competition yet. Alcryst and Lapis will have to dance their hearts out if they hope to compete against that masterful dancer.

Are you okay? Alcryst expresses his concern with a silent look to Lapis. He doesn’t see anything wrong with the dance—in fact, he enjoys getting to be so close to his partner. Her unsteady steps are made up by Alcryst’s commitment to performing the intended move. They move as one, but not in the same way they did in the previous rounds.

The lift Lapis warned of finally arrives, and with a soft grunt Alcryst lifts her into the air. Though… not quite how he’s supposed to do so. Lapis’ dress is short, and so Alcryst tries to lift her in a way that doesn’t result in exposing her. It’s what a good partner would do, he thinks.

Even if the judges don’t particularly agree. 9 in style shocks Alcryst, and he doesn’t hesitate to credit Lapis for that in his mind. A 7 in technique also surprises him. Alas, the 3 in choreography is no surprise.

As the judges tally up the totals, Alcryst does so as well. With mental math he averages his and Lapis’ scores, then their opponents’…

Ah. Alcryst squeezes Lapis’ hand and kisses the crown of her head. They lost. It’s a disappointing outcome, but Alcryst finds that he’s not too saddened by it. That they got this far is impressive enough, he thinks, considering the tough competition they faced. And he had fun! Who thought Alcryst of all people would have fun at a dance contest?

The judges confirm the victor, and Alcryst joins with the crowd in applauding the two women. “Well fought! Er, I mean… well danced?”

[starrook]

pas de deux

ethereal ball - white heron cup match 10 // alcryst & lapis vs flayn

[lazulienne]

    There's no time to dally, but Alcryst and Lapis are like two peas in a pod. When he's distracted by their opponent's solitary position in relation to theirs, Lapis finds herself distracted too, looking towards the green-haired girl with clear worry. But with the music starting and the judges ushering them, Alcryst's hands getting in position, Lapis's lapse in focus is a detriment.

“Uhh...! Best of luck to you too! You've got this!” Lapis calls out to Flayn, wanting to at least encourage her, but it means she's once again a bit off-tempo at the start of the new round, hurrying to stumble her way into (trying to) successfully follow her partner's lead.

But at least this time, even if her mistakes are more obvious, her spirits are higher, riding the high from their win last round. Alcryst and her had figured something out in the end before, and it's that trust that makes her radiant with seemingly misplaced confidence now.

“She looks like an awkward duckling...” comes the commentary from the judging panel, their eyes scrutinizing the competitors even more intensely than the first round. Perhaps it's true; she's no swan, has never thought herself fit to be so, surrounded by so many fine birds...

But she somehow takes her love's reminder to heart, smiling back, and making a tender scene nonetheless. It is in her awkwardness that another judge finds her joy heartwarming, leaning against and beaming at her love even when she inevitably trips again and can't quite hide it this time.

“I always think this, but you're really dashing tonight,” Lapis whispers to her partner. “Thanks for catching me there. Phew.”

SCORE: 9, 4, 3 = 16PTS NEXT: @cotharach !!

[cotharach]

Lapis' encouragement warms her heart, but what really fills her soul is watching the two of them dance together. They are imperfect, yes, but it is clear to Flayn that they share a bond that transcends the waltz they share. It shows in their eyes, but also in the way he catches her every stumble. Flayn takes in a deep breath. How she wishes she could be caught like that! Envy cuts its gash through her chest, but her own yearning for this sort of romance to enter her life should not distract her from the competition.

She takes her position, lifts her arms, and begins to spin.

The choreography is quite different from her last piece—better suited for a solo dancer than a pair—but it is nevertheless still a challenge to execute. The judges note her wobbly knees, her stiff shoulders, and the weak steps. At some point, her heels catch on a groove in the stage, causing her to stumble. The crowd gasps, but Flayn rises to continue.

Many would call it disastrous, and indeed, were it not for the fierceness of her expression and the aesthetics of her movement, she likely would have been eliminated. She is safe... for now.

SCORE: 9, 8, 1 = 18! NEXT: @starrook

[starrook]

"Thank you, I--"

A gasp from the crowd distracts Alcryst, and he sees the girl trying to regain her bearings. Did she fall? The scorecards give some insight. The lowest possible score for technique, but that hardly negates her near-perfect scores in the other categories. Alcryst was right, she is a masterful dancer!! She doesn't need a partner at al!!!

That one blunder is the only reason why the judges decide to continue the round. Score-wise, they're neck and neck. Alcryst tries not to think about that as he brings his attention back to Lapis. Seeing her smile beautifully for him eases his worries. He even finds himself smiling in return. It'll be fine.

Alcryst leads once more, and though he simplifies the choreography for Lapis' sake, he makes sure to emphasize their technique and coordination. He extends his arm, allowing Lapis' skirts and ribbons to flutter. As he pulls her back into his arms, he whispers in her ear, "I'm going to dip you, okay? Have an arm around my shoulder." Alcryst places his own hands on Lapis' shoulder and back to prepare.

The song is reaching its end. Alcryst supports Lapis' weight as he slowly, gently, leads her into a small dip. "I won't let you fall," he promises.

9/2/7 = 18 points, @lazulienne

[starrook]

pas de deux

ethereal ball - white heron cup match 10 // alcryst & lapis vs flayn

[starrook]

"Shouldn't we wait for her partner?" Alcryst asks out of concern for his opponent, so he's shocked to be told that she is dancing alone. Surely she didn't sign up to compete on her own? Maybe she had a dance partner in the first round that couldn't make it to this one. Or she's just such an amazing dancer that a partner would only hold her back!!

No, Alcryst can't get distracted. The second round is starting. Judges call for them to get to their starting positions. One of Alcryst's hands rests on Lapis' waist. The other holds her hand. It's no different than last time. All Alcryst needs to do is focus on his partner, and dance.

"Remember to have fun, okay?" Alcryst smiles as he takes the lead once more into the second dance of the competition.

3/4/10 = 17 points, @lazulienne @cotharach

[starrook]

pas de deux

ethereal ball - white heron cup match 10 // alcryst & lapis vs flayn

[crested-flames]

to blossom in tempo

ethereal ball - white heron cup match 3 || lene & byleth v. alcryst & lapis

[dancersnewme]

Wait. Theyre still in? Oh thank goodness. That wasnt the worst thing ever. Well, at least now she can redeem herself. She turned her attention to the competition. "I think you have them riled up" Lene commented, she thought it was a little funny "do you know those people?"

Maybe they saw them as intimidating, but she wanted to lighten the mood a bit. So she turns to the couple and flashes a smile! Bright , full of hope, before she focused on her steps. Each movement was done perfectly, properly, but with her own flairs and twists. Sudden small jumps, a wink to the judges, easy things to keep everyone on their toes.

Expect... She almost forgot she had a dance partner! She slows down "sorry, again. Haha!"

@crested-flames

[crested-flames]

"Hm?" As their first heat comes to a close, he swears he heard his name. The score board was pretty even all things considered. The other pairs trust and chemistry is entirely unattainable. Just from their hold, if this competition was between who was enjoying it the most, he doubts anyone would stand a chance against them.

"I don't," he answers simply as he catches his breath and loosens up his hands. They must've heard of the Ashen Demon if anything. Byleth can't help the slight frown at that idea. Was that why they were intimidated?

The smile his partner flashes over is beaming, bright. He can't really muster the same so he gives a gentle nod instead.

Now, the heat started anew. The rhythm this time seems far more her style. His lead is a bit weaker but so long as they were making good enough steps, it was fine. Keeping up, providing a good back drop, allowing her to shine. It's best this way.

When it all comes to a close again he shakes his head. "No, I've been enjoying it." Dancing like this isn't so bad.

lene & byleth score: 18 @starrook , @lazulienne

[starrook]

Ah... that green-haired girl is so assured of her victory that she beams a consoling smile to them. It's rather understandable, to be honest... But Alcryst can't let himself dwell on it. As she spins, pink dress swirling in the air, the prince of Brodia stays focused on his partner.

Alcryst loves that intense expression on Lapis' face. It flickers only for a moment when she apologizes for her dancing. "You're doing great," he whispers, and he means it. Lapis talks about her dancing like she has two left feet, but it's clear to Alcryst that she's much better than she claims. Has she been practicing? If she has, then Alcryst wants to match her dedication.

"Stay with me." Alcryst shifts his focus to how he is dancing, taking greater care to move the way he is supposed to. He loves the chaotic freestyle way of dancing that Pandreo introduced to him, but he still has formal dance training to lean on. Where Lapis missteps, Alcryst is quick to move in a way that makes it look intentional. They've fought alongside each other on the battlefield long enough that he can anticipate her movements.

The song is almost over. Alcryst flashes his own smile to Lapis, encouraging her to do the same. Regardless of the outcome, he's glad to be here with her.

[crested-flames]

to blossom in tempo

ethereal ball - white heron cup match 3 || lene & byleth v. alcryst & lapis

[dancersnewme]

"I always dance to my fullest!" Lene responded, giving the professor a nod. "I just hope you can keep up with me-" She wanted to lighten the mood, simply following him along.

But maybe she... shouldn't have been to proud of herself just yet- Maybe she forgot to stretch or something because she was out of her game. Despite that, she did try to smile through it, even laughing! She didn't dare look at the judges, they might ruin her mood.

"Sorry," She finally spoke , loud enough for only her dance partner to hear.

@starrook , @lazulienne

[starrook]

Alcryst dips his head down to whisper something to Lapis. Those witnessing the scene might see this as loving words privately exchanged by the couple, however...

"Lapis..." They haven't even started and he's already feeling queasy. "That's Emblem Byleth..." The one Emblem known to be a dance master!!! That must make that girl he's with a dance master too! To think they'd face such strong opposition in the first round... Will they make it?

"It'll be fine," Alcryst says, as if to reassure Lapis (though it's him that needs the reassurance). He takes a deep breath to calm his nerves and squeezes Lapis' hand. It's just you and me, Alcryst tells himself. He turns away from the other couple's dancing to focus on his partner. Just you and me and no one else.

Alcryst takes the lead. The nerves are beginning to get the better of him, and he's all too aware of every little misstep that he makes, but he does his best not to dwell on it. He tries to forget the competition. He tries to ignore their talented opponents. Instead, he looks at Lapis as though she is the only other person here, dancing alone in this grand ballroom. Step by step, his confidence starts to return.

9/4/2 = 15 points, @lazulienne help

[starrook]

can we be fwiends again 🥺

grants any skill +1

[dcggersedge]

Despite how very un-Yunaka-like it is, the body can only be ignored for so long. As soon as she hits the ground, she can't really stop herself from slumping forward, head hanging down low as her body finally lets her know just how tired it is…particularly her back, which she has a feeing is going to be bruised as hell tomorrow from getting flung around by that witch. She lets her fallen hair hide her grimace.

Whatever. She just needs to sit and keep being fine and then Alcryst will tell them when they're ready to go and they'll wrap this up all nice and tidy, right.

Right?

When Alcryst speaks, she turns her head just enough to look at him from the corner of her eyes. At first, her expression doesn't change much. She stares at him blankly as she tries to make sense of his…assurances? Consoling? Her expression eventually breaks into a confused frown.

"You told me I had to."

He'd made that very clear when he'd held his life in her hands. She can't live anymore. Who Yunaka was was unacceptable, they only wanted the Yunaka they knew. The one that didn't really exist.

It's confusion, at first, but then her frown turns to anger as she lifts her head up properly. "You're the one who said that there couldn't be any Larimar left. I'm doing what you asked."

[starrook]

"W-What?!" Alcryst did not say that!!

...Wait, actually. "Is this because I said Larimar had to die?" He did say that, and no matter what people think he still believes it had to be done. Larimar is dead on paper. But Yunaka is not Larimar, and so she is allowed to go free. Larimar must die, but you don't have to. Alcryst thought he made that clear...!

He shifts to a kneeling position. Then he lowers his head to the ground, forehead touching the floor as he bows deeply in apology. "I'm so, so sorry, Yunaka. Please believe me when I say, I never intended you to feel like you couldn't be yourself! And yet, my words did exactly that..."

[starrook]

la réunion

[seadasu]

Pandreo. 

Seadall stumbles a bit. Not the usual, since he doesn’t need any kind of foresight to keep from tripping over any of the numerous debris. It’s a mental stumble. An unconscious double-take in which Seadall travels back through time to remember what Pandreo’s version of dance looked like. 

…it hadn’t been for Seadall. Not then. Now? 

He can’t be sure, other than craving the memory of pure joy. It made sense that Alcryst would be taken in by such a thing. Seadall can almost imagine it. “I didn’t know the two of you were close,” He says, studying Alcryst as they clear the winding stairwell. “Though if we were given the chance, I’d love to attend such a dance with the two of you.” He hadn’t always agreed with the haphazard, off-beat movements. Seadall is grateful enough to have grown in that regard, where his friend had taught him to look at certain things through the eyes of a friend. 

“It’d be nice to see that side of you, were you willing to share it with me.” 

The lobby looked…different. Seadall blinked, remembering more daylight and less darkness. It’s not the only thing amiss, the flooring here looking oddly newer than the rest had. “Not everyone needs to compete, as long as you enjoy yourself, hm?” Was it the air that was feeling thinner? A persistent hum in the back of his head told him to feel alarmed, so he was reaching out for Alcryst in a graceless kind of way.

Was it magic, or his imagination? “Is…is this the way we came in?”

[starrook]

"Of course! Maybe the next time we both finds ourselves in Solm, we can find a party to go to together." Alcryst likes that plan! He turns around to see if Seadall likes it as well, only to be met with something very concerning...

"...Seadall, are you well?" Stuttering's not like him. Seadall reaches a hand out to Alcryst; he quickly takes it, stepping forward to provide extra support should he need it. "Do you need to sit down? You seem unsteady."

[starrook]

cream of the crop

Back in Garreg Mach, speculation arises that faith magic will never accomplish anything with the current epidemic. [...] [Bow +1]

[heliacalrisings]

Ephraim nods in agreement with Alcryst's assessment. "Truth be told, I've fought more monsters than men, though at times they're interchangeable."

He does not elaborate on that as he looks toward the extra hunting bow. "I feel more confident when throwing a lance, but you're right. Better to take aim with what I know will take down my foe. And it would do no good to waste my opportunity to learn from someone more skilled than myself. I will keep my lance though, just in case." One might get close enough that a bow will be useless to him.

It is not as if he has no skill with a bow either. He had been dragged into archery competitions as a child and though he had not often won them, he still performed well enough. Not well enough by his own standards, but he's sure he can wield the bow Alcryst speaks of.

"Let's head out and I'll test my skill with this bow of yours." His confidence bolsters his tone. "Between the two of us we'll make short work of these beasts."

[starrook]

More monsters than men? Alcryst raises his eyebrows in surprise, though maybe he shouldn't be. Once Rosado Engaged with Emblem Eirika, he would cut through Corrupted forces like a hot knife through butter. Alcryst assumed that was a boon gifted from Eirika, but perhaps it actually came from her brother?

"The lance will be better once it's grounded," Alcryst adds. "But to ground it, the bow is better." He hands off the extra bow to Ephraim, suddenly feeling self-conscious. It's true that the bow's power will be better at piercing the hide than a thrown lance, but... ough... as if Alcryst of all people has any right contradicting THE Ephraim.

He tries to focus on the task at hand before he loses himself. "Um, so I already went through the trouble of find our target. It'll be this way." Alcryst walks due north, chin lifted so that he can watch the tree canopies above. These monsters fly close to the ground and without any regard for their surroundings. The trail of broken tree tops and fallen branches is easy to follow. "This should be a flock of three. But killing one should be enough. The important part is that you don't pierce the crop, since that's where the medicine's supposed to be." Alcryst draws a finger down his throat to the base of his neck, just above the collarbone. "Somewhere around here... I think..."

[starrook]

put a rock on her hand

continued from here

[starrook]

"So all I can do is ask… and trust Lapis to choose what is right for herself," Alcryst concludes. He looks worriedly at Fogado across the table, searching his face for a sign that he's on the right track. "You're right. I don't want to take choices away from her, whether it's marriage or anything else. And if she has reservations or doubts about anything, of course I'll take them to heart…!"

The thing is… would Lapis tell him? A nagging thought tells Alcryst she's more likely to keep it to herself if it meant keeping him happy—or worse, just to keep up appearances. It wouldn't be the first time. She is no stranger to hiding things or omitting truths about herself from others, even from Alcryst.

It's not a dealbreaker. They both have their own flaws and struggles, and in his eyes their current relationship is still a happy and healthy one. But Alcryst can't help but feel responsible for making sure she never finds cause to hide her feelings or choose his happiness at her own expense.

A few moments pass before Alcryst speaks up again. "Um, Fogado… can I ask you something? It's just that, you're so good at being… you. Easy to talk to. I feel like I can tell you anything, and you just get it without judging me or thinking less of me. How can I be that for Lapis?"

[fauxgado]

"Good at being me? Aw, I think I feel a blush coming on!" Bashfulness joking though it may be, beneath the surface there is a part of him that does preen—the kind of guy that anyone can come to is exactly the image he works for. For a friend, the effort is doubled. These kinds of interactions are the only way that he can gauge whether or not he is doing a good job.

For all that he laments, Alcryst isn't so bad at being supportive himself.

"Are you really worried about that?" He asks, letting himself seem incredulous at the thought. Because he kind of is, even if he kind of isn't. Prince Alcryst is exactly the sort of person who would worry about this, even if he is exactly the sort of person who shouldn't have to. "Honestly, Alcryst, I've met plenty of tough customers. You are not among them. A lot of people in your shoes are not nearly as kind or humble as you are, you know. Or inclined to see the good in other people."

Hearing about the life he's lived, Fogado's not certain he wouldn't have snapped under similar circumstances. Every trait and every action under scrutiny? The idea makes his skin crawl whenever he thinks about it. He's not sure what sort of person he'd be if he'd grown up a prince of Brodia, but he doubts it'd be pretty.

He pauses for effect before continuing. "...but, like, if you are worried about it, you could just tell her, couldn't you? That you want to be that for her. Who's stopping you?" He asks. "And then when she trusts you enough to do it, make sure to follow through."

[starrook]

"I... suppose I could," Alcryst admits quietly. "I'm the only one stopping myself, aren't I?" He already knows the answer to that.

"Thank you, Fogado..." He can't say his fears are completely dismissed, but he feels lighter knowing that someone else hears and understands them. "That's enough about me, I think. I'm sure you have lots of stories from Elyos to share!" Alcryst refills his and Fogado's teacups, much more eager now that he's not at the center of attention. "What's been going on with you, my friend? And don't leave anything out!"

- End

[starrook]

[ WATER ] - The liquid of life, the quencher of thirst. Served in crystalline glasses. And what’s more dramatic than throwing water at someone’s face!

"—You. Take this. Parched, are you not? You humans are ever prone to such weaknesses as exhaustion and dehydration. It will net you good to avail of a glass or two."

'You', of course, referred to none other than Alcryst of Brodia. After their initial encounter, Rafal pressed the glass of water into this hand with the same authority as he always did. Nothing of particular kindness to his demeanor though one may argue that his intentions were exactly as such: kind.

The silvery prince watched his dark-haired counterpart for a moment, saying nothing. Continuing to say nothing until after he'd taken his first sip. Then, while Alcryst was occupied, he proceeded with a quieter, softer, and not-quite-so-authoritative request:

". . .By the by." Was he avoiding Alcryst's eyes? Rafal? Surely not. "You would not happen to be willing to part with a few of your flowers, would you? Frankly, I am in need of them. As many as I can find. To say yes would be a great boon to me."

Alcryst doesn't know why a glass of water has to come with thinly veiled insults and a lamentation of the human body. Then again, it is Rafal, and perhaps that's all the reason there needs to be. "Oh, um, thank you Rafal," he says, acknowledging the kindness of the gesture if not the rebukes that came with it. Expecting Rafal to stay until his gift has been properly received, Alcryst takes a quick sip from the glass.

And yet Rafal lingers. Awkward silence settles between them. Alcryst is relieved when the Fell Dragon finally speaks, though what he asks for is... "Flowers? Ah, um, yes. I have those! I'd be happy to give you some." As many as I can find, Rafal says. Alcryst parts with all but two of his orchids. So long as a piece of the original bouquet is still in hand, more flowers will come to replace those given away.

"Can I ask what you're planning?" If Rafal is after the prize, he doesn't need to go this far.

[contempenitent]

pop makes the world go round

Mauvier & Alcryst mini - Ethereal Ball - Corn

[contempenitent]

"The popcorn is not at fault," Mauvier assures Prince Alcryst. "The fault is within myself. Strong flavors are overwhelming to me. If anything, I should acclimate myself to your creation, if I may."

They may have fought together in Jugdral, but somehow, having a simple conversation feels much harder. Mauvier is learning quickly that despite his ferocity on the battlefield, the Prince is rather meek in social situations, and Mauvier is not much better. Perhaps frequent reassurances and compliments are the way past his walls.

"However, butter sounds sufficient as well." No, that's not enough. "Splendid, even. I would love nothing more than to try buttered popcorn, Prince Alcryst. Your generosity is deeply appreciated."

@starrook

[starrook]

"Oh..." There's a nagging thought in Alcryst's mind that Mauvier isn't actually interested in Brodian flavors. He tries to dismiss it. The knight has always been gracious, even as a Hound. "Um, right! It's really no trouble, Mauvier. Here, let me show you."

The popcorn stand is as busy as ever, especially now that the staff set up a makeshift topping station. Melted butter sits in a crock, kept warm by a magical flame. Many of the students drizzle melted butter over their overflowing bucket of popcorn. Alcryst tries to be a little more strategic, layering butter and popcorn in a way so that every kernel has a chance to be coated. A dash of salt to finish, and Alcryst hands the buttery popcorn to Mauvier. "Here you are. I hope you like it..."

He needs a moment to gather up his courage for the next thing he says. "Ah, um... and if you really want to try stronger flavors, then I'd be happy to cook Brodian dishes for you. Brodian food is very flavorful... ah, but you already know that..."

[rafent]

[ NETWORK ] - One of your fellow ball-goers is being accosted, and getting into earshot, you realize it’s by someone who claims to be one of the scouts looking for talent. But they’re being a little pushy, aren’t they? And are you sure they’re really who they say they are?

("I know potential when I see it." The talent scout is doing everything he can to convince these two to sign on as models for a romantic fantasy book series, the start of what's supposed to be an incredibly lucrative modeling career. "Young brooding men are all the rage these days.")

"—As I have said time and time again to the point that my very mouth tires. I've no interest in taking part in your inane creation. Beplague some other poor fool."

"C'mon~ don't say that! You and your friend would be perfect as the love interests in our series. And that pompous speech of yours! Love it, love it—an act, right? You could have fooled me into thinking you actually talk like that."

"Why, you. . ."

Curious, was it not? How the proud Rafal might shirk the chance to monopolize a form of spotlight, to be idealized and admired, to be positioned as the object of desire within a third and promising new world never before explored - primed for his conquest. And yet, there was a sensitive distinction; a totally fixed criterion. Pride for the dragon was to be found only in worthy pursuits. There was nothing to puff one's chest about appearing in an unskilled work of fantasy. Nothing of worth at all.

Then there was Alcryst.

". . .Oi', do not hide behind me." Comparative to the openly opposed Rafal, the Brodian prince seemed much like a quivering shadow - or the dragon's own shadow, riding in the slipstream of a more domineering force like a remora with a great white shark. The great white Fell Dragon sighed. "You. Alcryst. You've no desire to partake in this either, do you not? Well? Go on, then. Roar your displeasure. Speak for your own and give him a piece of your mind!"

[starrook]

Alcryst's skin prickles in shame once Rafal drags him back into the conversation. To be honest, he did hope that the ornery dragon would be able to drive off this persistent talent scout when he couldn't. No thank you wasn't taken for an answer. And when Alcryst fell silent and tried to ignore the man, he just continued his pitch as if nothing happened.

There's a part of him that feels guilty for rejecting such an eager man just trying to do his job. At the same time... it's so.... annoying...

Rafal's goading encourages Alcryst to meet the talent scout's face once more. He takes in a deep breath. "Enough is enough. We already said no..."

The talent scout expected more of a roar than this kitten's mewl. "You two should seriously consider this opportunity before it's gone—"

"Stop. I'm getting tired of repeating myself." Annoyance slips into Alcryst's voice. He steps forward and speaks flintily to the man. "No. It's not happening."

[aliberation]

starrook asked: [ GOSSIP ] - For those who don’t want to be the center of attention, sitting on the sidelines and observing those who do is a time-honored tradition. Exchanging thoughts with another while doing so is a rite of passage for a student—it is a slightly worse look for the staff to take part. (Alcryst keeps touching his hair, letting Lapis' ring shine on his finger. He keeps using that hand for some reason. Anyways)

Something is different. Something is off, and Alear's been staring at Alcryst's side profile for what feels like an eternity as she tries her hardest to figure it out. Lapis had been so excited for tonight, and there's no doubt in her mind that he is as well... so what is it that's bothering her? And why does he keep touching his hair like that-- There's something that glints in the light, and that's what finally catches her attention. On his hand, a ring that she'd never noticed before... and her entire body stiffens before she reaches over to grab his wrist, jerking his hand down to get a good look at it. "Is this..? Is this what I think it is, Alcryst?" She mumbles, not even fully expecting an answer. As it all begins to sink in, though, she blinks up at him with wide eyes. "IS THIS AN ENGAGEMENT RING? AND YOU DIDN'T TELL ME? WH- Y-" The Divine Dragon sputters, trying to get her words together, before wild eyes dart from left to right. "WHERE'S LAPIS?"

[starrook]

Alcryst tries not to laugh, but it's no use. He can't stop himself from smiling at Alear's reaction to the news. To think he of all people would be able to surprise the Divine One!

"Should I get her?" He asks cheerfully. He lifts his hand so that Alear can get a better look at the new ring on his hand. Lapis told him that she would make him a proper engagement ring, but for tonight he wanted something on that finger that represented her love for him. The pink gemstone sparkles. "Though I could have sworn I saw you with her just now..."