exalted king.

"As first king of the One Kingdom of Valentia, Alm spent his life restoring the land to glory." Alm - fe2 & fe15 ; private & aff w/ toa

[ullmus]

New month? New missions. This is also my first time doing this so.

The one with the crime is lowkey interesting, what was it, BL authority +1?

I also considered having Alm partake in the silly prankfest because this literal minded dorklord would either be really good or really bad at pulling practical jokes!

If any of these plots sound interesting please hit me up in the DM!

[ullmus]

windsheedme​:

an introduction.

“Oh it can, yeah. Draw out your full potential, expand your horizons, grow rich in body and spirit alike, et cetera.” He waves his hand in an unconcerned manner, his usual smile not fading away. “Me personally, I love it, but I know it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Still, as long as one doesn’t neglect one’s duties, I’d say it’s not too much of a problem.”

(He says, as someone who spends his spare time writing theses. But anyway–)

Alm reveals that Merric’s guess about his familiarity with Celica was correct; it doesn’t escape Merric’s attention that the other did not use any kind of honorific for her, instead speaking her name in a similar manner he would speak that of Princess Elice. The Altean nods. “She’s been here longer than me, I believe. But it looks to me like she’s been having a good and valuable time! I’ve had the honor of discussing magic matters with her a few times.” His smile grows a shade brighter as a result of some fond memories. “I don’t know how valuable the stuff I’ve been able to share has been to her, but her knowledge and experience has been a great help to me.”

Alm’s thanks are met with a nod, while his question - with a light, sheepish chuckle. “Oh, it’s no problem, really! When I first came here and felt lost, there was someone who welcomed me here like this as well. I’m just paying it forward, I suppose. Perhaps someday you’ll do the same for someone else, too.” As they approach the Blue Lions classroom, the Altean turns to the other greenhead one more time. “And well, I pray this isn’t overly presumptuous of me, but I hope we can be friends.” A short burst of soft laughter escapes him. “I promise I don’t talk about only magic and studying all the time, contrary to popular belief.”

Oh, Celica has been here THAT long? Alm honestly couldn’t blame her. It’s one thing to be princess of a decaying country, but it was a whole other ballpark to be queen of an decaying nation. With rumors of this academy being incredibly tough, it seemed natural that Celica would want to come here. Alm was in the same boat, metaphorically speaking. Sir Mycen had insisted that he should do this. Clive, Lukas, even some of his Ram Village friends all thought this was for the best. Merric seems to speak fondly of the education offered here. Alm was so glad that it seemed Celica had made friends here, too. 

( Wonder how Faye’s doing right now. )

The green haired prince lets out a chuckle, placing a spare hand upon a hip, using the other to rub the back of his neck. ❝Haha. I don’t mind. Before I was a prince, I was a “farm boy”. I’m no stranger to hard labor. Hard to believe, huh? An heir apparent that knows how to tend to land? Not something you hear everyday, yeah?❞ He had sworn that if he got out of the Duma battle alive, he would stand with the people of both Rigel and Zofia and work to harvest crops for them. The country and the people he cared about came first, after all.  Among them, his dear beloved.

❝Oh? I’m glad she has someone she can talk magic with. Don’t get me wrong, Celica’s totally open with me about most things - but I can’t relate to her struggles with magic. I don’t use it. Like, at all. So it’s awesome that you guys have a common interest!❞ He had to admit, he couldn’t really grasp the concepts of shooting fire from one’s finger tips. He always fought with his own strength and a sword. There were enough magic-users in the Deliverance, anyways. He couldn’t be able to compete with them.

As they approached to where the “Blue Lions” classroom was, Merric had turned to him. The Valentian prince, worried, scrunched his eyebrows upward with concern. …And then it was revealed that Merric simply wanted to form a friendship with him. Oh phew, Alm had wondered what the sudden stop was about. He relaxed, eyebrows returning to their default position, and he offered out his left hand.

This was how Alteans made vows of friendship, wasn’t it? He... had forgotten to study foreign cultures before coming here, despite being told people from all over would be converging.  ❝Gee, that’s awfully nice of you, Merric. I’d like that too,❞ Alm replied, genuinely. He was down-to-earth and open for friendships. The same couldn’t be said about the rest of Rigelian nobility. They were, ah, intense for lack of a better word.

Alm allows silence to fall for a mere moment, before it is broken again. At Merric’s laugh, and subsequent comment, Alm raised an eyebrow in a playful manner. Teasingly. ❝Y’know, I wouldn’t mind if you talked abour magic and studying. Need I remind you who I spend most of my time with?❞

[ullmus]

As Silque had been preparing various gifts for her friends, there was still one person she had yet to send a gift to. Though she'd like to think she knew him well enough—with her traveling alongside his crew during the war—she was stumped on a gift to give. She wanted it to be special and enough to express her gratitude toward his endearing and valiant traits. If not for him, who knows where she would be today? (1/2)

(2/2) Finally, although it took a little longer than she was hoping, she appears before the saint king with a present in hand, wrapped as she had the others, polished and ornate. "Happy Day of Devotion, Alm." She waits for him to open it and reveal a painting of a cat, but not just any cat, one dressed to each of its nine lives. As if it were— "An aristocat." Barely flinching at her own pun, she smiles softly. Sometimes gifts didn't need to have a deep meaning so long as the sentiment was there.

Sometimes, Alm wondered what he did to deserve such awesome friends. Besides, you know, being a kind person and taking down a demented God and saving Valentia as a whole. Honestly, anyone else could have done that if they were born with the Brand.

Silque had appeared before him. It seems that he was popular around here. ❝ Oh hey, Silque!  ❞ Greeting was laid-back and informal, just as one would expect from “Farm Boy” Alm. He noted that she held a present, ornately decorated and polished. This earned Silque a earnest smile, ear to ear. Alm didn’t expect anything less from her.  ❝ This is for me? Thank you, Silque! It feels like I’ve been getting presents left and right today. I mean, I know it’s to be expected, considering the date, but I’m getting embarrassed! Haha...! ❞ As Alm (gently) opened the little parcel, he comes face to face with a painting of a cat.

His breath hitches, and then he’s squealing like a schoolgirl. An elegant “aristocrat” dressed up to the nines starred back at him. The young king felt like a boy again.  He stops starring for a minute to give a thankful look back up to the gift-giver. …Wait, had she seriously made a cat pun? Ah, a woman of culture. Well, two could play at that game.

Alm’s earnest grin turns sly. He’s cooking up something. ❝ Hey., this little guy’s got style. Perhaps he’d want to join the royal court? He looks pawsitively stunning.❞ Silque wasn’t the only one who could make puns that are so bad they circle around to being funny.

[ullmus]

Finding one man in this monastery was tantamount to finding a needle in a haystack. Especially today, when students and faculty alike were bustling about in a gift-giving frenzy. But Celica's search proves successful, her grip around the lunchbox tightening as she approaches. "Hello, Alm. As you might be aware, today is a very, erm, special occasion..." She pauses, considering her words, "And I thought I might gift you these meat skewers I prepared. Consider it thanks, for always supporting me."

Alm... wasn’t expecting THIS. The day of devotion had sprung up on him faster than expected and soon he found himself in a crowded hallway full of students and staff either deep in love or giving gifts for the feel of the holiday. Alm had turned around at his name, and there she stood.

The beautiful Celica. He noticed that she was carrying something. His heart races. Did she...?

She speaks. Her melodious voice always a pleasure to listen to. But TODAY, it sounded even lovelier somehow. She mentions the specialty of this fine day, and then pauses. Alm yearns for her to continue, but doesn’t want to be pushy. He waits with bated breath with Celica gathers up her thoughts. Continuing, the young queen explains herself. She had prepared meat skewers for him? How did she know? That Alm loved meat? It was like she could read minds or something-

He swears he can feel butterflies fluttering about in his stomach. 

Either that, or he had told her he fancied meat at some point and he forgot.

❝ G-Gosh, Celica...! This is - Oh Celica, thank you! You didn’t have to, but I’m so glad you did. ❞

He was blessed to have someone like Celica in his life. She was so kind and so thoughtful.  ❝ Um... I got you something too.  ❞ Had he been secretly hiding a bouquet of pretty roses behind his back all this time? Who knows.  ❞ H-Happy Day of Devotion!  ❞

[toa-advicebox]

What even is love? I've had guys say they love me, but I don't understand it. I care for my best friend a lot, but I've never understood whether it's just friendship, or something more that I feel. If there's any advice, it would be appreciated.

[ullmus]

Love is... a lot of things, really. It’s kinda hard to describe. Think of love as a range of positive emotions that you hold for another person! That make sense, right? I hope I’m not making this even more confusing for you! Anyway, let me just say, you shouldn’t rush in figuring out your feelings. Love isn’t something that comes quickly, even if marriage isn’t on your mind. 

Love doesn’t have to be strictly romantic in nature. You say you care a lot about your best friend, yeah? Y’know, you kinda remind me of one of my friends: he’s well-liked and surrounded by people, but he does not have the desire to marry anyone. That is completely fine too! You could say he feels a lot of platonic love for people. Nobody is forcing him to be romantically involved with anyone if he doesn’t want to, and he likes it that way.

You shouldn’t be forced to be romantic to show that you care for people. That’s how I see it, anyway. If you want romance, that’s fine, but non-romantic relationships are just as valid in my eyes. I give gifts to friends just ‘cause I care about them. You should be able to care about your friends openly without rumors going around, yeah? 

Only you can decide if what you feel is only friendship or something deeper. I wish you luck in your journey of self-discovery.

[ullmus]

just popping in to post January activity check !!

‎

status. ‎ ‎ ‎  ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎  ‎ ‎ ‎  ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎( ‎passed... albeit on hiatus. ‎ )

total skill points. ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ( ‎ 4 ‎ ➢ ‎ 5 ‎ )

sword rank. ‎ ‎ ‎  ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎   ‎ ‎ ( ‎ d ‎ ➢ ‎ d+ ‎ )

[ullmus]

Alm vc: So I disappeared into my room and did not come out for 2 years.

[ullmus]

i am allowed more than one more here,, right???

because...

ive been thinking....

conrad fire emblem

[ullmus]

--- * ALM’S FIRST STEPS AS RIGELIAN EMPEROR.

So, I was thinking more about Alm & what Alm does after he takes the Rigelian throne from his father. I feel like his first steps would be in eradicating the remaining ideals of the Duma Faithful’s extremists. If there are still  priests who are hell-bent on the following the philosophy of Jedah and the corrupted Duma, despite the harm that it would do the Valentian people, they would need to be stopped before everything comes to a head. Who’s to say they wouldn’t try to do something for their “god”?

Alm would to try and have them stand down. He would not hold up against his sword against people who were lead astray. Remember, Rudolf said it himself, Alm is a man of mercy - despite his willingness to fight for the better good. Just because he wields a sword doesn’t mean he’s trigger happy about it.

Then there is the issue of food. With Duma gone, he remembers Celica’s words. “Rigel’s lands will grow as barren as Zofia’s have”. Alm will not let that stand. He’ll plow the fields, too. Remember that he grew up as a farm boy in Ram? He doesn’t care what the up-tight nobles might think. He doesn’t.

There is a lot of work to be done before Rigel can unite with Zofia. But he can do it. He HAS to to it.

His father wished for a brighter future for Valentia’s people. He will make it come to pass.

[ullmus]

seraphiia​:

courtly dancing

     “Thank you for thinking about my feelings. But, really, it’s fine. I’m fine. As painful as it may be to think back on it all, I’ve made my peace with it.” …Mostly, anyway. She wouldn’t be so naïve to think that the scars of her past would just magically heal now that the sources of them were gone. Not even now, surrounded by the support of friends and loved ones, could she truly forget. 

     And she shouldn’t. If bearing the sins of the past meant that she could use those mistakes to build a better future, then bear them she would.

     The conversation turns as they do, the two of them gliding along the floor as an amusing tinge of color rises to her partner’s cheeks. Even as children, he was the easily flustered sort (mostly around her, she’s noticed), a quality Celica innocently took advantage of time and again, teasing him for a bit of harmless amusement. Never would she go too far, or prod him to the point of sheer mortification; simply put, his moments of bashfulness were far too adorable to resist.

     “Alm, I know so. I wouldn’t say such words if I didn’t have every faith that they were true.” A smile settles onto her features as he brings up his friends from the Deliverance, no doubt masking his concern for them in the form of a jest. Celica shifts the hand held in his, gently intertwining their fingers with a playful reassurance, “Hm? Oh, they’ve been models of good behavior. Dutiful, supportive… but if anything changes, I promise you’ll be the first one I call.”

     A comfortable silence settles, and she smiles. Their dance, simple as it may be, was going much more smoothly than it had in the beginning. All Alm needed was to relax, and make use of that natural charm of his, and he would be sure to impress those nobles in no time. Most of them, at least. No doubt a fair share of noblewomen…

     She feels a twinge of discomfort in her chest at the thought, but quickly shakes it off. What he chose to do with his life, and who he might choose to do it with, was none of her concern. Yet…

     “…Once things were settled in both Zofia and Rigel, I was going to pay you a visit. I’ve only been to Rigel’s capital a few times, and I was hoping you might show me around.” Celica does an admirable job of maintaining her composure, but she cannot deny the implication of what she’s about to ask, a flush of pink beginning to color her own face. “But since, we’re, well… both here instead, perhaps we could go into town, and see the sights…?”

Dancing with Celica like this... was nice.  He missed the redheaded queen so much, and it was just nice to catch up like this - even if they were supposed to be teaching Alm how to not make a utter fool infront of the noblewomen and men of Rigel. Honestly, he’s glad that they are able to weave a decent conversation into the dance. It’ll make the repetitive steps less boring. Celica seems to have such faith in him, saying she wouldn’t have said those kind things about  if they weren’t hundred percent true. Alm also gets relief knowing that the Deliverance is well and good. He found it weird, in a way, especially at the start how he was a Rigelian leading a pack of Zofian soldiers, before getting saving Zeke and Titania. He supposed that the Zofian faction of the Deliverance were now posted in Zofia - and he can’t help but wish Clair would just... come pick him up and drop in in Zofia for a little while...

…wait, huh? Oh, Alm must of spaced out. Did Celica really just say she wanted to visit Rigel’s capital? Alm’s heart swells up with pride - for no real reason why.  ❝ You were gonna visit? Oh, gosh, that’s really swell of you. I’m sorry that the impression of Rigel you got wasn’t... y’know, that great considering because of the war. I swear, it’s not that bad now! Okay, maybe it is - but I swear I’m doing something about it!  ❞ Alm’s honestly doing his best here. Trying to keep the empire from falling apart until it can be united with Zofia is really taking a toll on him. It means a lot that Celica wants to take a tour. Maybe there could be pre-unification alliances between Zofia and Rigel. If Rigel’s people could see how kind and compassionate Celica is, they may give her a chance. Sure, Rigel has always been seen as cold and brutish, but perhaps Alm can teach the Rigelians the meaning of the word “mercy”.  

Speaking of Rigel, Alm suddenly gets a devilish thought.  Alm gives Celica a sly, mischievous smile - a twinkle in the eyes that was previously unseen. ❝ You’re always welcome in Rigel, but if you decide to come when it’s cold out (like right now, perhaps...), you may wanna take a coat with you. As you may know, Rigel isn’t known for it’s WARM climate. I wouldn’t want you to freeze, or anything. ❞ He’s actually being serious here, he cares for Celica’s wellbeing - but who says he can’t poke fun at her from time to time? He seems to be playfully implying that Celica may not be used to Rigel’s climate, because of her spending most of her childhood in Ram and later, that island. Hopefully he doesn’t hurt her feelings. Alm wouldn’t want that to happen. The disagreement between the two of them in Zofia Castle was hard on them both.

Alm was considering if he should apologize for his playful remark when Celica speaks up again. Would Alm want to visit the sights with her? Alm’s devilish smile melts, and it is now more soft - fitting of the mood that Celica may have created with that implication. He flashes a big grin for her, showing how happy he was. ❝ Yeah, that sounds fair! I’d be honored to, Celica. Thank you.    ❞

[ullmus]

 seraphiia​:

courtly dancing

     His question is met with a light hum. The habits of certain Zofian nobles were, admittedly, a source of great irritation and stress for her. Remnants from her father’s rule and ideology. Taking what you want, as much as you want, whenever you want—damn the consequences. Whether it be food, money, or women… anything could be free reign.

     Not all Zofians were like this, of course. There were upstanding figures in the military and government, such as Sir Clive and Lady Mathilda. Lord Fugue and Lord Rion. Lady Clair and Sir Fernand. Conrad, and so many others she had elected into her cabinet. As Zofia’s new ruler, she would not rest until she stamped out the corruption and tired old traditions, paving the way for a brighter future.

     She gently guides Alm into a turn, smiling at him to acknowledge his awkward attempt at a joke. His way of trying to make her feel better. ( When his presence is all she needs for that, something she hoped would continue long into the future. )

     “It’s… complicated.” She says, truthfully. “Zofians are more relaxed than Rigelians, it’s true. It isn’t bad. But it’s—well, it’s not always a good thing, either.”

     The more they converse, the less Celica’s focus goes to guiding Alm in the dance, falling into a comfortable tempo with him. Despite the anxieties they shared, and the heavy topics they discussed, she felt oddly… relaxed. Happy to be in Alm’s presence, smiling with him, talking to him—being together with him, after so many years of separation and heartache.

     “Because you’re someone who instills faith and confidence in others. Many of the knights’ trust in you had been because of your father’s commands, yes…” They turn again, and Celica feels her foot nearly slip along the floorboards. Thankfully, she maintains her balance, and doesn’t trip or fall into him. “But you’re an upstanding man, Alm. I’m sure that the more they watch you, the more they’ll see your character to be honest and true, and come to support you before long.”

     Her smile grows sympathetic, “The road to acceptance won’t be an easy one… but I know you’re strong enough to weather the storm. And of course, you’ll always have my support, too.”

As Celica guides him into a turn, Alm gives her time to think. Like his set of previous questions, the answer could not be so easily given. Zofian nobles being “loose” in their traditionalism could either have great or disastrous consequences for Celica’s rule in Zofia. He begins to think maybe he shouldn’t have asked at all. It’s possible he sparked some negative connotations with her father’s “rule” of the country by asking about the current nobility. He wonders if besides the people he knows, like Sir Clive, Lady Clair, Conrad, etc are the only ones in her court who broke away from King Lima’s ideology of owning whatever you want, whenever you want, damn the consequences. He really shouldn’t have asked.  ❝ Look, Celica, I-  ❞ Before he can make his apologies, Celica answers his question.

…It’s complicated, huh? Yeah, Alm excepted as much. He smiles sadly, trying not sour the mood by bringing his guilt to the forefront. ❝ I’m sorry for bringing it up, Celica.  Are you doing okay? I didn’t wanna... you know, remind you of anything bad.  ❞ At least Alm wasn’t alone in his struggles with the nobility. If only he could be as approachable to Rigel as he was with the Deliverance.

Alm finds that, as the conversation continues, he spends less time focusing on the dance itself and more on her. Alm hasn’t stumbled yet, so that’s good enough for him. That’s good. He didn’t even know who was leading. If HE was leading, he didn’t wanna accidentally stumble and bring down Celica with him. As they turn again, Celica reacts to his offhanded comment about more and more people using “Your Excellency” in his presence.  She says it’s because of how he is, and how he can install faith into people. True, a lot of his currents knight are now on his side because of his father, but perhaps that loyalty towards his father will eventually blossom into loyalty towards him. Alm is left speechless for a spell, a faint color appearing on his cheeks.  ❝ G-Gosh, you think so? It means a lot to hear you say that. It’s a lot easier being a military leader than an heir apparent. But I know I’ve got people who I know will back me up! And hey, it’s not like I’m a complete stranger in Rigel, either. ❞ 

Massena and Sir Mycen trust him. They’re very influential in Rigel’s court. Perhaps they’ll put in a good word for the Rigelian-born-Zofian. Oh, that reminds him...! ❝ The Deliverance is doing well, I hope? Clive, Lukas, the lot of them? ❞  He’s been so busy recently. He misses them.  ❝ If they’re acting up, make sure to tell me, okay? ❞ He cracks a small smile. This was an attempt at a joke.  

 Alm thinks how fortunate he is, really. Valentia’s unification, or separate but equal ruling won’t come easily - but he’s not alone. The queen of Zofia is here with him. He’s already found a few Valentian-aligned people here. He tries not to start bawling like a baby, so overcome by love and admiration for the girl he was dancing with.

This was what his father wanted, wasn’t it?

[ullmus]

---- THE TRAINING GROUND CLEANUP. 

@futuresking, continued from here!

THE BLUEHAIRED had approached. She appeared to holding a broom, and Alm wonders if she was intent to clean up the training grounds all by herself. Why was no-one besides him around to help? Clair would certainly call the circumstances boorish. Leaving a lady to clean up everyone else’s mess while everyone else saunters off to do something else? Unspeakable. Alm felt bad to leave Lucina here to her own devices - even if she didn’t mind cleaning up the training grounds. With the mess, it’d take longer for her to do all herself. Perhaps it’d take her hours to get done. So he had asked, without hesitation, “Can I help you?”. A earnest expression blossomed. His smile held no signs of resignation, he was willing to use his strength to clean up the mess made here without strings attached. Farm work, as it turns out, made him capable of heavy lifting. 

As she gets closer, Alm notices the shades of blue in both her eyes. One seemed brighter than the other, and what was with the... brand ( that was a brand, right...? ) in her left eye? It reminded him of his brand in a way, except his was on the left hand and not in the eye. Alm wonders if she’s ever gotten comments about it and decides to not to comment on it as well. He knew all too well about being a child of fate, and how heavy his destiny is compared to everyone else’s. His Duma’s brand lead towards the merciful rest of the War Father, but it also brought up various complications in his young life. He was always destined to be the next emperor of Rigel, even if he considered himself the least fitting person to rule ever.

Celica knew, didn’t she? About what her royalty entailed for her? Alm didn’t, not until his father’s last request sprung out from his lips.

Her smile is polite, laced with warmth - much like his own. She had been nothing but civil to him, thus far, even though they were considered strangers. Alm could respect that. Alm much preferred people who well-mannered. He could deal with disrespectful people easily enough, sure, but Alm was a man of mercy. Believe or not, Alm doesn’t like using his sword to deal with problems when a respectful conversation could take place instead. He would raise his sword if nothing else could be done. It seems that Alm would not need to raise his sword against Lucina. She comments on the state of the ground, and Alm takes his eyes off of her for a moment to survey the damage done. …she really wasn’t kidding. Wooden weapons scattered the paces. Broken. Someone could easily get a splinter here if not careful. If training dummies were accessed as well, they were also scattered about. Gods, someone could trip.

 She thanks him for his help, and Alm brushes off any potential debt-owing by a wave of the left hand. He wasn’t doing this for her respect, love, money or whatever else favor. He was doing this because he feels this is the correct thing to do.  ❝ Oh, sure! I’ve got nothing else to do right now, anyway. I’d be glad to help you out. Besides, it’d be a bit unfair for you to do this all by yourself! ❞

Before any work gets done, however, she asks his name. He feels it only natural to respond after she gives hers. Lucina... what a nice name. Alm thinks it fits her. ❝ It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lucina. I’m Ablein Alm Rudolf II, of Rigel. You’re free to call me Alm, if you want! ❞ The future Valentian king extends his left hand, to meet her calloused one. ( How many fights has she been in? ) 

He worries for her.

[ullmus]

∅ (if it’s no trouble!)

alm gives opinons!

Oops, did he accidentally bump into yet another person in his endless loop around Garreg Mach’s hallways? Geez, it’s really obvious how little time he’s spent in castles, huh. Alm is quick to offer his apologies for being ignorant of Garreg Mach’s structural layout. THIS heaping building makes Zofia and Rigel’s castles look like a mere commoner’s house!

❝ Oh sorry! You must be... um, a Professor, right? You don’t appear to be wearing a student’s uniform. ❞ Not only is Alm to be Valentia’s king, he will also become the king of common sense. He’s always been perspective. …He’s not making this any better for himself, huh?  ❝ Pardon me, I’m just nervous. There’s so many people here. ❞

Breathe, Alm. Say something. ❝ …Say, you seem like a nice person - if you don’t mind me saying so. I could trust you with Rigel’s secrets! Hahahahah! Ah, I’m just kidding.  My name is Albein Alm Rudolf II, the Crown Prince of Rigel. I wonder if I’ll have a class with you? If so, you can bet I’ll give it my all, Professor!  ❞

Good GOING, Alm.

[ullmus]

[ ☄ – Long Hug ] She'd embraced Alm without a word, head resting on his shoulder. For so many others, Celica endeavored to remain strong. To be the compassionate, yet impenetrable, force that her country needed. But sometimes, even the highest walls are overwhelmed. They require nurturing and care. Support, and stability. "Alm." Her voice is low, trembling with rare fragility. "We... can stay like this for a while longer, can't we? I—I don't wish to let go. Not just yet."

✦ TYPES OF HUGS;  ☄ – long hug.

Surprised by the sudden contact, Alm turns his head to find Celica resting her head on his shoulder. The young lad is left speechless for a moment. Celica... embracing him like this? So suddenly? What was the occasion? Alm felt warm, perhaps even giddy by the contact of his best friend. He was happy to see her, and was about to happily embrace her -- but he stops. Her voice is low and trembling. The proud queen with her head held high was now clinging to the green-haired boy as if her life depended on it. If Alm could look into her eyes, he’d probably see a lingering sadness in them. He decided against teasing her, the moment was not right for it and it would probably make poor Celica feel worse. Alm doesn’t say anything for a moment, and instead wraps his arms around her instead - letting the Zofian rest against him.

She sounds... so weak. So fragile.

By the gods, hearing her voice without it’s usual brightness honestly almost brought tears to his eyes. Alm’s inner musings concerned him greatly; even merely thinking about the tones of her voice brought unpleasant possiblies to Alm’s mind.

Did someone do something to her?

❝ Celica? ❞  He starts, eyebrows furrowing in worry, his forest-colored eyes mirroring his concern. He frowns at the sight of the noble queen being so delicate, perhaps even breakable in his arms. The redhead was usually so strong, and Alm often felt like coming to her for support but this time - the young queen had approached him and just embraced him without a word spoken. Perhaps even the most mighty needed someone they could rely on. He removes one hand from her to comfortingly touch the top of her head. Alm hears her breathing. Is it troubled?

Just how much would Celica intend to bear by herself? Alm hoped she knew that she didn’t have to bear the weight of the world on her own.

❝ Oh, gods... You sound so upset. Please tell me what’s wrong, I’m right here! ❞ Alm’s voice is low and tender, soft but also pleading. He wanted to help Celica with whatever her trouble was. He knew she would do the same for him.  Problem was, he did not know what was troubling his lady fair. He doesn’t exactly get an answer to his pleads, either. Celica instead requests that they stay just like this.

On the other hand, it’s entirely  possible that Celica didn’t want a solution. Maybe she just wanted a warm heart, a warm embrace and a open ear from someone that she trusts. Luckily for her, Alm was very good at being there and being a comforting presence. Providing this was the case, Alm allows himself a small smile. If she needs a shoulder to cry on, she’s got one. 

❝ Don’t worry. I’m not going anywhere. You can hold onto me for as long as you need and you’re going to be okay.  I believe in you, Celica. ❞

You’re an inspiration, I can only hope that I’m helping in some way. ‘Cause, you deserve it.

[oopsiewoopsie123]

⨳ — TYPES OF HUGS;

send one for my muse's reaction!

♥ – A romantic hug ☺ – A friendly hug ♫ – A hug while dancing ✉ – A hug goodbye ღ – A hug in greeting ❣ –A hug after being separated ✪ –A sleepy hug ✢ – An awkward hug ♢ – A familial hug ⊗ – A quick hug ☄ – A long hug ✾ – A passionate hug ☀ – A hug from behind ▲ – A surprise hug ☑ – A polite hug ✸ – A bear hug ✚ – A hug while cuddling ‽ – A hug around the waist ♠ – A squeezing hug ❋ – A silent hug ♣ – A spinning hug

[ullmus]

seraphiia :

courtly dancing

     The steps started off slow and unsure, but they were making nice progress, and before long, she could feel Alm start to grow more comfortable with it. Still a little too focused on their feet, perhaps, but it was nothing she could fault him for. He was still just a beginner, after all, and Celica was certainly no expert herself.

     She was content to see that he was doing well, amused by how intensely he was staring at the ground. Even with something so simple, he dedicated himself to succeeding, almost as if his life depended on it. Thankfully, it seemed more borne out of determination than anxiety this time around. She smiles, reminded of the earnest, hardworking nature of his that she had deeply grown to admire and love.

     But in her swooning, Celica finds that her own thoughts had begun to drift from the dance, furthered pulled away by Alm’s subsequent questioning. “I…” She doesn’t quite expect it, and an immediate answer is difficult to come by. The reasons behind nobility and social convention wasn’t something she often put much thought into, at least not until now. “Well. That… is honestly a good question. Nobles are very traditionalist by nature, and these rituals are simply part of that. It never really occurred to me to think of why, though.”

     “As those born into a higher station, we must conduct ourselves with sophistication and grace. To set an example for those in our care…” Her smile adopts a sheepish air, and Celica lifts her shoulders in a light shrug. “I can only assume that’s why they uphold such strict customs. Zofians are a bit more… loose in their approach, but it’s much of the same.”

     “Honestly, I’d like—” She starts, head ducking a bit as she debates on whether to finish the thought or not. With anyone else, she probably wouldn’t have. But she knew she could trust Alm with this. “I’d… prefer a simpler life, actually. Like back in Ram… but this life gives us the power to protect the people we love, to make the changes we desire, and I say that alone makes everything—even dancing—worth it.” Her head tilts, and she smiles, “Don’t you agree?”

Alm honestly hadn’t expected Celica to answer. He wanted to fill the silence that had come between them during their dance, it had been a bit too awkward for his tastes. Even still, her reply doesn’t come suddenly - and Alm is suddenly wondering if he should have asked. Before he can say anything, Celica answers. Apparently nobles are very traditionalist. He gathered as much from watching the nobles in action, or at least - the ones he knew well. Like Clair, for example. Call Alm tactless for thinking this, but he honestly wondered what the whole point of these rituals were. They were JUST dances. Yet, the nobles except such traditions to happen. 

Heh. He found it funny in a ironic sort of way how he was scorned for being a farm boy, but ended up being the heir apparent of a mighty empire, yet he had no idea how emperors or queens are expected to rule. He had to appease the Rigelian nobility first ( And Zofia’s nobles, should he decide that he wants to wed his lady fair ).

❝...Zofians are... LOOSE in their approach, huh, Celica? Is that a good or bad thing? ❞  Huh, he didn’t know all of that. Zofian nobles being “loose” in their approaches?  Depending on what Celica meant by “loose”, she would either have a easy or a extremely difficult time opening up to her nobles. Alm is immediately sympathetic toward the young queen.  He attempted to make a joke - not to offend, of course. 

Alm was about to add more comments about Zofian nobility, but Celica’s next words made him shut himself up instantly. Celica saying she preferred a simpler life, but being happy with this life for being able to protect people most dear made Alm feel... oh gosh, how did it make him feel? He felt the same way. He felt like someone understood him, he supposed. He didn’t know if he should tell Celica his thoughts, but ah heck. Celica trusted him with her secrets, so surely the reverse can be said.   ❝ I do agree, Celica. Actually, that reminds me, before the battle with Duma, I had more and more people addressing me as “Your Excellency”. It was kinda embarrassing, but on the other hand... I felt like I had their trust, I guess? I just hope I can remain in their good graces, haha! ❞

What is this, a dance session or a therapy session?

[fecipherfullart]

Aritst: Ryuutetu

Source: Marker Card