Court of Dusk

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

Ryoma looked as if he had to think of the answer to his question. He rubbed his chin and looked to the side.

“Honestly, I am very unaware. I know that everything in here is cherished history of my ancestors. It is protected so that nothing is stolen and used against us. My guess is some of these items hold great power and value, but even I do not know what that may be. Most likely for good reasons, as I am a target in this battle right now…”

The never ending war… Ryoma almost felt the weight push back down on him, reminding him of the exhaustion from preparing for battle. He slowly let out a sigh.

“But I’m sure it’s nothing serious.”

[thornedregalia]

Xander goes quiet for a moment at that, just walking side by side with Ryoma, feeling the rest of the library much quieter than when they first entered. Of course Xander feels trapped, of course there is much weighing on his mind about his family, the future of Nohr, how his people will see him and if any of them will really be accepted back by their people... after going against the king, after siding with Hoshido, after going so far as to do battle against soldiers of Nohr.

It's easy to lose track of the fact that others are struggling too. That whether or not Ryoma approved of the idea of housing the Nohrian royal siblings right away, he still takes the duty seriously. That he still must bear the burdens that come with doing such a thing. And that, like he said... he's even more of a target now than ever before.

With all of that said, it's surprising then, that Ryoma chooses to soften the blow of that admission by trying to say it's nothing serious. Is... he trying to protect Xander?

Xander swallows around an emotion he can't name. "No. All of this is serious, and I'm sure it weighs heavily on your mind." Xander hesitates, brow furrowed, conflicted over what exactly to say.

"I know that from your perspective hosting my family like this... it's just one more thing you have to take care of. But I'll not allow myself to become a burden, Prince Ryoma. ...I understand that as crown prince, one must be the sole protector of those around you, but you don't need to number me among those who need protection. Instead, please allow me to support you as you have supported me and my family."

[thornedregalia]

Candied Catastrophe

Xander frowns at the array of pink and red packaged treats crowding the aisle in front of him. After drawing up (and then promptly scrapping) several plans of action to make... romantic advances towards a man who's caught his eye, buying the kind of lovey-dovey candies for himself that he might have bought as a gift, feels just a bit pathetic. Especially since he's doing this the day after the fact. And that all the candy is now discounted...

And yet, those pink bunny macarons with little heart shaped noses are so cute... And it's not as though anyone he knows is going to be here at the grocery store this early in the morning on a weekend. Or anyone at all really! He can even go through the self check-out and not have to so much as make eye contact with a judgmental store clerk. If he's going to do this, now's his best chance. He grabs the macrons, and a box of pretty decorated strawberries as well just because if he's going to indulge he may as well not do so halfheartedly.

He pulls back, and promptly elbows someone small right in their face. He startles, she startles, and somehow they both end up knocking over a whole display of candy hearts. Xander's brow furrows in concern, frowning as he leans over the other person, reaching out a hand to help her up. "I'm so sorry, I didn't see you. Are you quite alright?"

[fireemblem-rp]

Friends of Askr: Thread Prompts

Below are a set of starters to get some platonic– or romantic, threads started! Perfect for getting your muse in the spirit of Valentines.

Romantic

☕️ - For your muse to ask my muse on a coffee date

⛸ - To have my muse bump into your muse while ice skating

🍷 - Your muse prepares my muse dinner at home, paired with a good bottle of wine

💍 - Our muses renew their marriage vows or one muse proposes to the other in a romantic getaway

🍱 - Our muses take a scenic hike, finding a quiet spot to settle down for a picnic

✨ - For our muses to go stargazing together

Platonic

🍬 - For our muses to go and buy discounted candy together after Valentine’s Day

🎮 -For our muses to stay in and play video games together

✂️ - Our muses get crafty at a Pinterest party for two, trying out all kinds of fun crafts

🐟 - Our muses venture to a popular fishing spot for an afternoon on the water

🛏️ - PILLOW FIGHT!!

🍰 - Our muses spend the day baking together

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

Down the spiral of stairs, the path led the two princes to a library that was even more dated than where they entered upstairs. The walls were an old stone, aged sigils and pennants along the walls. Many bookshelves were dedicated to scrolls, tablets, damaged papers. Some glass displays had old relics within them. History of generations passed.

A man dressed with a cloth over his mouth and white gloves saw the two and approached them, bowing and holding out his hands for what they had.

“Oh, uh.” Ryoma looked at Xander. “Did you want to read any of that first? If not, he will put them away. They have special locations.”

[thornedregalia]

"Er. No, that's quite alright. You're through with them, yourself after all." Xander hands over the scrolls he was carrying along side Ryoma. Having grown up in a castle himself, Xander is not unused to handling objects of monetary and historical value. It's a bit different though when said objects are completely (and literally) foreign to you.

Once they're alone again, Xander can't help but have his attention drawn back to the relics, embroidered scrolls and beautiful paintings apparently depicting historical events. After a moment's hesitation, Xander speaks up.

"If you don't mind my asking, does this place serve any function besides a library? It's just that it's guarded and so active as well, even considering the late hour."

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

“Oh…” His body relaxed a little at that. Here, Ryoma was thinking it was going to be something serious, that Xander was just sweetening him up to prepare him for bad news. That was not the case.

“Well, I have to admit that I feel the same way. I am glad we talked….You even brought me a meal when you did not have to. I appreciate your kindness.” He gave a warm smile to Xander. 

“Is there any way I can repay you for these kind gestures? Just say the word…”

[thornedregalia]

'Well, I have to admit that I feel the same way.' Says Ryoma with such warmth that Xander knows it will feature in his dreams later. (Only then the feelings he'd be returning would be a bit different.. perhaps they'd be in Xander's tent rather than in the darkened training grounds... maybe Xander would be able to feel the warmth of his smile, rather than just looking.)

He swallows thickly.

"Er. No. I mean it's not- I'm not rejecting your generous offer, Prince Ryoma." He takes a breath to steady himself before- "I just... it is said that friends don't keep track. I didn't do this to gain anything from you. If there's anything I want of you, it's... to know you better." He knows asking this is so much more than asking for a favor. Still, it seems he can't help himself.

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

The last bit threw Ryoma by surprise. He let the words repeat in his mind a few times, but even then it made no sense. His head turned to look at Xander once more, letting his body face the other prince.

“What exactly do you mean by that?” He furrowed his brow slightly. “You’re glad you found me here? You mean out here training?”

Why would that be? “Why, did something happen?”

[thornedregalia]

Xander feels himself flush and he has to wonder since when his expressions became so transparent. "I er. Not exactly. It's not specifically that you were training, more that well... that I'm glad we had this talk."

I'm glad to know you better, he doesn't say. I'm glad to have kept you from training late alone, and I'm glad you had a warm meal instead.

Ryoma looks so confused and Xander doesn't know if that particular phrasing was just a bit clumsy when spoken in Common or if... Ryoma was really just so surprised to have someone interested in him rather than what he can do for them.

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

After fixing his robe, Ryoma picked up some books and scrolls and led the guest to the library. It was within a building outside of the sleeping quarters. Even late at night, guards kept watch of the important literature. They saluted the prince, but gave Xander and uneasy look.

“He is with me, let him in.” The Hoshidan prince walked past them and entered the candlelit library. Head to toe, ceiling to floor, shelves of history decorated the interior. Some people were quietly sitting and reading, whispering to one another, and searching for answers they had in mind. 

“These came from downstairs, follow me.” The staircase was in the far back, but Ryoma waited for Xander before he began to descend. 

[thornedregalia]

Following Ryoma out of his room, Xander walks with the other prince down a winding path through the darkened court gardens and into a new building Xander's never been in before. They're greeted by guards in front of the only entrance, and the look they give Xander is met with his own hard, guarded expression. He almost surprises himself with how easily he slips back into that unaffected mask when just a few minutes ago he felt as though with Ryoma…

Well. He let himself get out of hand. Those guards were a reminder that he is, in the end, unwelcomed here.

Still... he can't help but be taken aback by the sight of the library when they pass. Maps and tapestries hang over the walls in the spaces between shelves full of scrolls. And the place was surprisingly populated for this time of night. Centuries old classic Hoshidan weaponry adorns the walls and Xander can't help but admire the craftsmanship, unaware of the fact that he's stop until Ryoma turns around to call him. Embarrassed, Xander nods and hurries to meet him. "Ah, right. Lead the way."

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

Ryoma blushed too, and a tired chuckle escaping as best as it could. He shook his head and pat Xander’s shoulder.

“As much as I’d love a good night’s rest, that is in the past until this war has ended for good. Until then, I must sleep with one eye open, and always be one step ahead of the enemy.”

His hand remainder on Xander’s shoulder for a moment too long. Something about how warm it was kept him there, but he soon managed to pry the hand off, letting it fall to his side.

“I digress..Shall we go to the library?”

[thornedregalia]

In the soft lantern light of Ryoma's room, it's clear that he's blushing and the sight is so arresting Xander forgets to be embarrassed for his own flush. Then casually, Ryoma reaches out to put a warm hand on Xander's shoulder. "I understand where your dedication comes from, and if that's the case, I'll continue to do all I can to put an end to this war in a way that will allow the both of us peace afterwards. ...And allow you some rest."

Ryoma is close again, his hand warm, heavy on Xander's shoulder. Not an oppressive weight, but a grounding one. And Xander expects Ryoma to go on, the silence between them thick with meaning, like they're on the verge of something. Something Xander doesn't dare name, but foolishly hopes for nonetheless... before Ryoma lets his hand slip away. Swallowing, Xander takes a small step backwards.

"R-right." He clears his throat. "Please, lead the way."

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

He had to admit, it’s been a while since he could ‘find someone,’ let alone turn to anyone at his times of weakness. To have Xander say that to him made his heart skip a beat. Ryoma’s cheeks grew hot and he looked speechless right then and there.

“P-Prince Xander…” Now flustered, he turned his body slightly away, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well…uhm…If you have the same thing going on just look for me too…okay?”

Was this some kind of spell? Some kind of trickery? Or was this…his own feelings?

[thornedregalia]

No, this is no trick of the shadows, Ryoma is blushing, looking to Xander with this soft, unguarded expression that makes Xander's chest ache. It wasn't so long ago that Xander had to school himself out of becoming jealous of those who receive Ryoma's smiles, but this... it feels like so much more. A surge of protectiveness wells up in him, watching Ryoma's face in profile as he turns from him, moonlight spilling over the round of his cheek and down his throat to the collar of his robe.

And by virtue of who he is, Xander should never share his burdens but... maybe this much is alright. With Ryoma's voice so soft, it feels like all of this is hidden from the rest of the world.

"I will. I trust you'll be good for your word." A moment's hesitation. "I'm glad I found you here."

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

A familiar feeling loomed in Ryoma’s mind. When the war is all said and done, will he have to take his father’s place as king? Will Hoshido crumble and Nohr take all control? Will Hoshido…destroy Nohr? 

He nodded, looking Xander right in the eyes.

“You have my word. Whatever may come out of this, I hope we may remain allies, even if one of our kingdoms were to crumble in the process…” He clenched his hands into fists. “I know that sounds dark, but the thought comes to mind…I just want good to come out of this….Don’t you?”

[thornedregalia]

In any other circumstance, Xander may have taken those words to mean a threat. But looking at Ryoma... maybe it's foolish of him, but Xander can see nothing of him that isn't genuine. He resists the urge to cover one of Ryoma's clenched fists with his own hand. "Of course I do. ...After everything I've done, turning my back on father and his rule, I'm not willing to let all of that be in vain. For the sake of my family, and everyone in this army who believes in our cause, and for Nohr itself... I will do everything in my power to ensure that Nohr stands stronger than ever." He looks to Ryoma then, and though his words were determined, his voice was soft. This moment is for them alone. "I trust you feel the same way for Hoshido. Prince Ryoma... fighting together like this, allied as we are, I'll dare to tempt the fates and say we're stronger than ever. Please, banish those dark thoughts from your mind. Or if not, find me, and I'll do what I can to help." He gives him a small smile.

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

He almost forgot about that. The old Hoshidan language…How different was it from Nohrian language? Maybe one day they can compare literature and see for theirselves. The tiniest bit of excitement hit the back of his head amongst the stress and exhaustion.

“I do not mind translating some literature for you. There is a lot, but the information is very beneficial. Just let me know when you’d like for me to read any for you. As long as I am not busy…”

He paused. When will he have free time? When will this war end? He sighed a little.

“When there appears to be free time, don’t hesitate to ask.”

[thornedregalia]

Though Xander would have never brought up something so frivolous to any of the other Hoshidan royals, something about that distant spark of excitement in Ryoma's eye makes Xander feel like this might be alright. To ask for something like this even when the both of them had demanding positions. Even when Xander wanted nothing more than to prove his worth to him... Somehow asking for help now doesn't feel like admitting a weakness.

Ryoma sighs and for a moment, Xander almost thinks he didn't read him right after all, but then he speaks and- "It's generous of you to offer, Prince Ryoma. Thank you." It feels genuine in a way all their formal meetings were, to thank him now when they were alone. "Though as much as I'd like your company... I uh. Would also hope you're getting adequate rest." He clears his throat a little, feeling his cheeks warm.

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

Did he let his inner emotions come out too hard? It’s possible, but he’s too tired to care. He has to show distrust in Nohr for now, but at the same time, this prince, no matter how cold he’s been, has been so helpful and open. Must Ryoma remain distant this long? It almost felt like, dare he say…torture.

“Oh, well, if you want to read any of these you can hang onto them…Take a look for yourself.” He motioned a hand lazily to the piles of scrolls and books. “Just be careful is all….Wouldn’t want them to think poorly of you for how you treat historic literature.”

What does Xander like to read? What does he do on his free time? And why does he want to know so much?

“If you need help carrying anything just let me know…”

[thornedregalia]

Xander's mouth twitches up into a smile. 'Be careful with the books' he says, while having the books all strewn carelessly about his room for Xander himself to see. "Oh, of course. I would expect nothing less of guests in my home if our positions were reversed." Maybe that's a bit too teasing.

The offer of help though, for the second time, makes Xander pause. "I..." He hesitates for a split second there alone in Ryoma's room. But of course, he's going through with it. Ryoma asked for his help, and Xander is already humbled and at his mercy, it's prideful and immature to act as if their situation is anything different.

"I'm not sure I'd need help carrying them, but.. I cannot read in Hoshidan. I understand you're a busy man, but if you ever found the time... I'm sure I'd enjoy reading with you."

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

It’s safe to say the way Xander spoke had him blushing. The thought of the prince of Nohr risking his life to protect him when he’s outnumbered or in danger…Would he truly do that?

“Well…” He cleared his throat quietly. “Expect me to do the same in return. I will do what I can to ensure you can go home safely when this is all said and done. If not back to your home of Nohr, somewhere more peaceful and safe.” Like Hoshido? He pushed that idea aside…for now.

All came back to reality when he heard Xander, especially the concern of his father. He had his own family troubles in mind. Keeping an eye on Takumi after he was possessed, the loss of his mother…

“I understand what you mean…My family has not had a second to recover after all that’s happened. I’m sure this is all something much worse for you though…What do you think will happen once we’re all done? Where will you go?”

[thornedregalia]

Xander has seen warmth in Ryoma's expression before, when speaking to his siblings or to another Hoshidan soldier. He knows Ryoma is capable of warmth and yet... watching him flush because of something he said, has Xander near protective of such softness. The fact that this might be physical proof that Xander's overstepped his bounds doesn't seem very important in the moment, even as Ryoma clears his throat and visibly regains himself.

However, as soon as Xander mentions his own troubles, Ryoma's expression grows stormy again. Not because of Xander himself, but... for Xander's sake. It's a little difficult to wrap his mind around how.. very caring Ryoma is being towards him right now, opening up in such a way.

"There is no way to gauge one grief against another, Prince Ryoma. We have both experienced loss." His voice is quiet, soft enough that though they're alone, if there were anyone around them, his words would still only reach the other prince's ears. "As for what I'll do after this... there's no way to know the future. If the people of Nohr will accept me as their leader after having defected from the ruling king." He lets out a quiet sigh. "I don't think I need to ask this of you at this point, but please keep these words between us." A gesture of trust in return for Ryoma's.

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

“You don’t…have to go.” Ryoma rubbed the back of his neck. “At least, not yet. I still have to clean up my room.”

His bed is buried under so many papers, so many maps and books, whatever could be used to train harder so he can be prepared. To his demise, it was most of the library, and he had to return it all.

“Do you want to…help me?” He looked at Xander as he approached the bed. “I need to return all of these books. They’ve served me enough purpose, and I don’t plan on sleeping on them.”

[thornedregalia]

"Thank you." Xander is caught between being deeply touched and amused. Ryoma almost sounds like a child, making up excuses for Xander to stay longer. *But he is making up excuses for Xander to stay longer...!* it seems as though the crown prince of Hoshido doesn't have such a stony heart after all. The fact that he's willing to show this side of himself to Xander, of all people... it does strange things to his chest that Xander doesn't have a name for.

The room is messy, but not in a way Xander minds, it's a physical map of the inside of Ryoma's mind. Papers and armor littered everywhere haphazardly. Standing in the middle of the bedroom of what once was an enemy, Xander smiles. A small, careful little thing, but it's warm. "Of course I'll help. I see you take your research seriously. And ancient Hoshidan tactics? I'll have to er- I was going to say I'd give it a read but... well. Never mind. I'm sure it's enlightening."

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

Ryoma, admittedly, was surprised to hear that. However, it was a relief to know he was sincere. Most people would just say, “Oh, yeah, I’ll be trustworthy, I promise~.” In the end, he would be on the floor, with the backstabber standing over him. Xander shows promise.

“How promising. I will take your word. Just know, if you dare try to turn your back on me, I will show no mercy.” He hopes that is the only time he has to make such a cold threat. He doesn’t  want to do it again, especially to Xander. His company is nice…

“I digress. Tell me more about what is on your mind. It’s only fair we share our thoughts together.”

[thornedregalia]

"I would expect nothing less than that kind of retribution if someone were to do something so cowardly to you. We are allies, Prince Ryoma. The only way you're seeing my back is if I place myself in front of you and danger." Xander bristles at the very idea of Ryoma being in danger, and at the hands of one of his own? Xander's voice burns with sincerity as he speaks. None of those scars Ryoma carries should be caused from those he cares about. "I can promise you that."

But then Ryoma is turning the conversation to him, and Xander is a little at a loss. Ryoma wants to know what's on his mind...? Xander thinks over this for a moment, hesitating, before- "There is always a great deal on my mind. I don't believe it'd be polite to burden you with it all."

He sits back a little, the tiredness coming back to his features. "For the most part, this war occupies my mind. Nohr's future. What will be done with Valla. My siblings. ....My father."

[thorned-regalia]

Strange Sanctuary

[hoshidanbrother]

Ryoma’s own tired eyes were looking at different features of Xander that he can see through candlelight. Up close, those blonde locks are so unique and interesting, much different than the hairstyles and colors seen in Hoshido. Not to mention how curly it was. And those dark eyes…

Ryoma heard the last bits of what Xander said, ‘the map is correct,’ and snapped out of his own daze. He cleared the back of his throat quietly and looked back down at the map.

“R-right…Thank you. I think after I get some rest, I could finalize this battle plan in time for when an attack comes. Always best to be a few steps ahead, right?”

That was close.

[thornedregalia]

Ryoma's eyes are warm this close, they always are, but in firelight, they look almost gold, saturated with light. Xander breathes quietly through parted lips and tries very hard not to move at all. A stray lock of Ryoma's hair free of his ponytail crosses his face carelessly, and Xander has to curl his own fingers against the urge to reach for it and tuck it back properly.

But then Ryoma clears his throat, steps back, and the moment is broken. Xander feels somewhat dazed but already knows it doesn't show on his face. He's trained himself too well for that.

...That catch in Ryoma's voice doesn't escape Xander's notice, though. Nor does the way he seems eager to get away from that moment. Because he didn't like it, or because he saw the same danger Xander did in getting close to him. He licks his lips. "Of course. It's always best to know your enemy well, lest you grow complacent." His eyes feel heavy on Ryoma's form.

"I'll leave you to it then. Good night, Prince Ryoma. Please rest well."

[hoshidanbrother]

Train and Fight! - Ryoma + Xander

[hoshidanbrother]

Was that a blush? It almost surprised Ryoma to see such a dark, tough prince become flustered by a compliment. He had to bite back a chuckle, but deep down? He thought it was cute in its own way. Is cute a good word to use for a male prince? 

“I agree, I think it’s best to just clear ones mind and let the answers find their own path.  It’s not up to us to make the answers but to let them come our way.” Ryoma finished his meal and set everything aside. He couldn’t tell if it was the meal or the idle conversation with Xander that had him brimming with some energy once more.

“As for your little remark about seeing tournaments some day…As long as you continue aiding us in victory, I do not see the issue in allowing you into our home.” He sounded sincere, eyes on Xander’s. “But that means you have to prove to us that you can be trusted. We are very alike, you and I..But I only hope you are as honest as I am.”

[thornedregalia]

When he starts out, Xander's guard is admittedly already raised- 'As for your little remark' sounds too much like a windup for a reproach. But then Ryoma meets Xander's eyes, wholly dark in the dim light of the dying twilight, but with a light of their own all the same. Xander looks at him and wonders if that warmth is just something Ryoma carries with him wherever he goes, like some stray piece of the sun cracked loose and wandering. He swallows, remembering he must answer.

"I've come to appreciate honesty quite a lot myself. When it comes to those of our stature, I think we both know the uselessness of filling our ears with things pleasant to hear just for the sake of it. ...I'd like to think that my comportment until now lets you know the fiber of my character, but I understand if you need time. I know I can prove myself trustworthy. ...That's a venture that's worth any amount of time." That.. might be too personal, but Xander doesn't regret that, either.