Melodies of Life Moderators (
melodiesmods) wrote in
melodiesoflife2015-12-31 11:06 pm
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Entry tags:
- [nc] umiko (nami),
- [ou] ace (type-0),
- [ou] barkeep,
- [ou] billy lee black,
- [ou] bloom,
- [ou] johnny d'amico,
- [ou] kobato hanato,
- [ou] minako aino,
- [ou] minato arisato,
- [ou] nanami kiryuu,
- [ou] rukia kuchiki,
- [ou] saori nakagawa,
- [ou] selen,
- [ou] sephiroth,
- [ou] sonic,
- [ou] sparks nevada,
- [ou] tear grants,
- [ou] terra branford,
- [ou] yugi mutou,
- [ou] zelda (ss)
Event || The New Year
Characters: Anyone!
Where: The Enterprise.
When: The Night from December 31st to January 1st.
Summary: A Ball aboard the Enterprise, for well-dressed (mostly) Heroes of Light and their friends who want to dance and (especially) eat for free.
Warning: Nothing.
While the passing from a year to another isn't as big of an event as the Starlight Celebration, it is no reason to pass up an ocasion to celebrate and have fun. There are fireworks in all major cities and various activities to enjoy. Noticeably, there are gatherings of people in Aqures Ixen and Trano Golsaucia in particular, if only to conclude what is one of the most celebrated week in the year, and wish to each other the best possible year to come-- Though most people are worried about what's to come soon. After all, the end might be nigh with the Calamity about to take over the planet...
To celebrate this, the Heroes of Light have all been invited to stay aboard the Enterprise for a particularly prestigious and animated Ball. Indeed, the Enterprise will from Aqures Ixen and go all the way to Mysidia at midnight-- This way, New Year is going to last even longer than normal thanks to the magic of timezones.
There are tables with foods for everyone to eat and of course, music for people to dance together if they so wish. There is also a consequent number of chairs lined up, for all those who refuse to dance or are too awkward to do so.
Where: The Enterprise.
When: The Night from December 31st to January 1st.
Summary: A Ball aboard the Enterprise, for well-dressed (mostly) Heroes of Light and their friends who want to dance and (especially) eat for free.
Warning: Nothing.
While the passing from a year to another isn't as big of an event as the Starlight Celebration, it is no reason to pass up an ocasion to celebrate and have fun. There are fireworks in all major cities and various activities to enjoy. Noticeably, there are gatherings of people in Aqures Ixen and Trano Golsaucia in particular, if only to conclude what is one of the most celebrated week in the year, and wish to each other the best possible year to come-- Though most people are worried about what's to come soon. After all, the end might be nigh with the Calamity about to take over the planet...
To celebrate this, the Heroes of Light have all been invited to stay aboard the Enterprise for a particularly prestigious and animated Ball. Indeed, the Enterprise will from Aqures Ixen and go all the way to Mysidia at midnight-- This way, New Year is going to last even longer than normal thanks to the magic of timezones.
There are tables with foods for everyone to eat and of course, music for people to dance together if they so wish. There is also a consequent number of chairs lined up, for all those who refuse to dance or are too awkward to do so.
no subject
That doesn't make it right... [ An exhale. ] But you still told me of your own volition, and that counts for something.
[ It was what she'd asked him to do, and she couldn't necessarily stay angry about it for that reason. Whatever hints of the emotion there had been had dissipated quickly, leaving behind only a hollow sense of loneliness that made her shiver. ]
If anything like this ever happens again... Please, just tell me? I'd... I'd rather tell you myself, about all of that in the file, about anything that happens. I want to be the one to talk to you.
no subject
And I wouldn't want to have this any other way, either.
[ On one hand, there was his wish to give her some more space for her thoughts, and on the other, the inability to draw his gaze away, as he noted the subtle changes in her expression. ]
The past makes us who we are, but no amount of scientific data could possibly be capable of expressing that as our own words can. [ A pause. ] Besides, these are all strings of information placed in order, nothing more. There is no reason for you to feel the need to explain yourself, if I learn most simply from the moments we get to spend together.
[ He was unsure where his words might lead, but it somehow made sense that he let them be known.
A corner of his mouth twitches lightly, and interrupting the solemnity of his expression is the tiniest of smiles. ]
And you won't get rid of me that easily, but just to make things clear....
[ Just as quickly as it came to be, the amusement fades. ]
... I promise. It makes me glad to be able to say that openly.
no subject
And now she had his promise to hold on to as well, which is enough to push her to try and smile again, however wistful it may still be. ] I'm not very experienced in expressing myself with words, but would you allow me to do that, Ace? Or was just reading it enough?
[ By no means was she going to tell him the full contents of the file right then and there, but if it was just what he'd read then it was fine by her. ]
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Well... I can only resist up until a certain point.
[ Though his words had lightness to them, still, his grip on the railing momentarily tightened, but that was as far as he would let on when it came to his feelings on the matter. If she was willing to give him a second chance without even knowing the details, it counted as a reassurance that these weren't the kind of thoughts he should be having right now.
After all, the evening was still young. ]
You could always sing about it instead. [ As ridiculous as it might initially sound, he quickly decides to push it even further. ] Imagine that it's the only way to let your thoughts be known, and maybe that's where you would find your confidence.
[ Finally, he allows himself a smile in return. ]
But talking is fine, too.
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But the opportunity was gone as quickly as it had come, leaving her to just listen to what else he had to say about her request. And we he said did indeed sound ridiculous, prompting a puzzled expression from the melodist that eventually broke into a smile despite herself. ]
You want me to sing about food? [ Of all things! ] I think that would be better left to talking.
[ If he just wanted to hear her sing, however... ]
no subject
Tear, you're being awfully literal about this. [ And yet, it's unlikely for the look in his eyes to be taken for anything else than fondness he no longer even attempts to hide. ] ... Then again, I bet you would still be great at it.
[ Now, before she could potentially take on the challenge (you never know), there was one more thing he wished to add. ]
... I mostly prefer salads and spicy dishes, and there's also this one soup Mother used to make -- [ The smile on his face brightens. ] -- pumpkin with Mandragora roots. My file happened to be fairly accurate about that part.
[ She wouldn't have to be the only one to share the information, after all! ]
Oh, and... sweets, because extra sugar keeps you awake, doesn't it?
[ On a second thought, it's a good thing they didn't go down the singing route, it's awkward enough as it is. ]
no subject
Pumpkin soup... I don't think I've had it before. [ Not when most everyone among her companions had a fondness for seafood instead, much to the dismay of some. But listening to him talk about it did give her a vague idea... ]
As for extra sugar, it does give you energy but you can't overdo it either. [ Especially if Hana had any hand in preparing his meals, she could still vividly recall the cookies. ] More importantly, are you sure it's not just that you like them that much?
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Especially that particular one had something of a holy status about it. The boy's response is accompanied by a small head-tilt. ] Well, it's... more like an old memory, as it's been years since I had it last.
[ Okay, maybe he'd gotten far too comfortable leaning against that railing, but her question was enough to snap him out of it, and straighten his back as his right hand also reached up to clear the stray strands of hair off his face. Uh. ]
... I am more than certain it isn't.
[ This time, he wasn't so quick to fill the silence with another remark, or a story, simply reveling in that moment of peace. It had been a harsh decision to make, but he was glad he'd finally been able to follow it through, continue with his conscience devoid of hurtful secrets. ]
no subject
Except there was another reason for trying to get his focus entirely on her rather than the view or the festivities going on inside. Crossing her arms and tilting her head enough so she could fix both eyes on him, the girl goes as far as raising an eyebrow in scrutiny. ]
So offering apples and milk wasn't just an observation in noticing the foods I like? [ It was thoughtful nevertheless, but in terms of their relationship one could almost call it cheating and would warrant at least a scolding.
Hopefully putting him in the spotlight would suffice. ]
no subject
Ah....
[ Belatedly, he'd realized the purpose of her gesture just now, for she gave him no opportunity to look away - not that he would have, either way. The cadet breathes out, responding with an apologetic look that should be enough of an answer on its own. ]
No, I confess. [ He does try to pull himself together, though, placing his hands on his sides in a more official manner, and shaking his head. ] I can't really present you with any excuse for that kind of behaviour, either.
[ A pause. ] Forgive me.
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I appreciate it, but you don't need to depend on something like that to make me happy. [ And only after she says the statement out loud does she realise how it could possibly sound, prompting a soft blush. ]
What I mean is... Just be yourself, you've done just fine without anything in there.
[ That didn't make it sound much better, did it? Trying to find a way to phrase it was more stressful than it had any right to be. ]
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This one time, it was different, maybe because it struck him on a way more personal level than ever before. He almost caught himself wondering what it was exactly that she expected to hear, but these thoughts fade as if in line with her request.
It's just that his mind draws a blank when there's only his own response to consider, and biting his lower lip, all the boy replies with is a weak nod. Whatever implication there might have been, it had been completely lost on him. ]
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This entire time he had been apologetic and trying to fulfilling the agreement they made during Starlight, but there was something important she had yet to give him, the words perhaps necessary.
Reaching over she took his hands in hers, loosely enough for him to pull away if he wished or if it was too much for him as she searched for his eyes again. ]
And I, Mystearica Aura Fende, forgive you. [ And the smile returns, small as it was. ] So let's just keep moving forward, please?
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Although that alone would have been enough of a reassurance, hearing her take that extra step brought some colour to his skin, accompanied by an immense feeling of gratitude, and relief. ]
... After all, we're partners. [ His tone is that of a quiet realisation before it gains confidence. ] We must both stay strong if we are to support one another, don't we?
[ Maybe it was the exact moment to bid their goodbyes to what was about to pass, but with how she'd already decided to move on, any verbal mention of that would simply remain unspoken.
Except these particular two words, could not. Returning the smile, he moves slightly closer. ]
Thank you. [ He gives a little bow with his head. ] For your words and... keeping me company tonight.
[ Even if she hadn't mentioned anything yet, the winter temperatures had slowly but surely begun to take their toll, the cold air filling the cadet's lungs and nipping at his nose. The unique sights, however, made it a rather tough call to make, which is why he'd settle for Tear's opinion. ]
Would you wish to return now, or stay here a bit longer?
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His thanks were a little confusing though, even if her expression reflected it for only a split second before returning to a smile that was beginning to come more naturally. ]
But you were the one who asked me when I hadn't made up my, I should probably be the one thanking you. [ She wasn't about to argue it however, or at least seriously. Besides, there was a more important issue to address. ]
As much as I'd like to stay out here, it's probably better that we go back inside for a while, isn't it? [ With most of the stress from his confession gone, all the awareness of the frigid air had come crashing down with a series of shivers, though she resisted the urge to hug herself to try and keep warm since it would mean letting go of him a little sooner than she would have liked. ]
Starting the year with colds doesn't sound like it would be very pleasant.
no subject
The boy turned his attention towards the kingdom for one last time, his gaze hovering over the distant silhouette of the castle before addressing the melodist. ]
Yeah. We may always come back when we'll be passing over the Lost Continent, so let's not overdo it.
[ Stubborn as she was about it, all Tear had ended up doing was delay the inevitable, but the one hand that the blond freed from her grasp immediately rose to gently adjust the floral adornment in her hair that he just now realized had wandered off a bit to the side, or such was the explanation at the end of his tongue if she raised a question at the sudden gesture. ]
Do you have any idea what does?
[ Except he would listen to her answer already on their way back, not risking any more shuddering if he could help it. ]
no subject
Or more than a few moments, since they were already heading back inside before she could even think of protesting. Besides, she did have something of an answer for him. ]
Not being sick to start with, being healthy and rested. [ There she goes, creeping toward the literal route again. ] Other than that, I think... being with people you care about, like it's supposed to be, doing whatever it is that makes you happy. Some things might have to wait until it's warmer, unless you're willing to travel.
[ Except that would probably make no sense without her elaborating further, which she might be willing to do if he were to ask. There was also another idea she had in mind, one that could be more easily achieved between the two of them this very evening. ]
Though... [ The girl ducks her head, perhaps a little embarrassed to be admitting it out loud. ]
I wouldn't mind dancing again to start it off, if you wanted to.
no subject
... Oh. ]
I... wouldn't mind, either.
[ There was something overwhelming about the vicinity of the dancefloor that thwarted his attempts at coming up with a less shaky response; and to think he'd naively expected it to be easier, this time around.
At least it did seem to proceed more smoothly from the technical side of things, and it came more naturally to assume the desired stance now, as all it took him was to recall what he'd already done before. He would constantly search for the confirmation in her stare regardless, smiling lightly as it occurred to him there was still one question left unanswered. ]
So, what kind of things did you have on mind? [ Truth be told, the cadet wasn't sure for how long he'd be able to maintain the right balance between talking and dancing, not being particularly skilled in either. At that time it simply looked like an idea worth exploring if it could help both of them act more at ease. ] Tell me about them.
no subject
I'd like to go to the ocean. [ Satisified with that answer, she continues with a nod ]
There were a lot of places in my world that I had only read about in books until almost a year ago, things I had seen only through words or in a picture here and there. Yet when I finally visited properly, I found myself really liking it.
[ But if the cold air outside was too much after a while, being anywhere near the sea would be almost unbearable. ]
There's something else, and that one would take time. In my experience, I've found it worth the wait.
no subject
I see.
[ The cadet makes a small, thoughtful sound as he pulls back, so that the melodist would find herself free from his embrace, save for his leading hand still loosely linked with hers. Unwilling to force any further movements, he sends her an encouraging glance to allow her to move as she wished.
Regardless of the course of action she might take, he makes sure she's back in his hold, just as it should be, by the end of it, as he gently pulls her close. ]
I hope you didn't mind.
[ Breathing a nervous chuckle, he doesn't even appear to be fighting the blush that begins creeping up his cheeks. After a brief moment, he continues speaking through another sequence of movements. ]
It wasn't necessary for our training, so we weren't allowed outside for a long time, either. [ The way he speaks is soft, as calm as his heartbeat allows, and very matter-of-fact. ] Venturing into the field opens your eyes to many things, it's true.
Akademeia was, in fact, located on a small island, and the sun shone brightly all year long. I have a feeling you... would have liked it there.
[ The look in his eyes grows slightly wistful, but no less intrigued. Something else, still? ]
... Hm?
no subject
It was the same as when she unleashed a spell, but there was something different to it, an exhilaration that persisted as the steps led her back into his arms, billows of white still gliding in the air. Meeting his gaze again she shakes her head, and if that wasn't enough of an answer for him then hopefully the bright smile that followed would help to clear it up.
Giving herself a moment to find her voice again, she glanced to the side as she tried to imagine the place he described, preferring to dwell on that than the implications that perhaps he hadn't been allowed to explore the world to its fullest extent either. ]
I think I would have, that place sounds beautiful. [ Though she'd come to appreciate nearly all the environments she had visited, there was a comfort that only the sun could bring with its warmth, its light reflecting off the rolling waves of the ocean brilliantly.
And in the back of her mind, it sounded all the better because he would be there. ]
You... might recognise the name. [ Her expression becomes apologetic for the reminder, but it lasted only a second before she continued. ] Where I grew up there was very little life that could survive, the only flower that could was one called selenia.
I had a garden of them in the area behind my bedroom, and because they only bloom nocturnally I spent many nights taking care of them.
no subject
While Tear was right in her assumptions, a name could only gain any significance if one knew the story behind it, and it wasn't at all difficult to re-learn it all if such was her way of cluing him in, with a light smile on her lips and a voice filled with wonder. Save for the practical snippets of information he'd naturally gotten through his visits to the Chocobo ranch, there was very little Ace knew about tending to flowers, and perhaps he wouldn't be able to appreciate them the same way she did.
But if she held that particular memory so close to her heart, it made it all the more important for him to know. ]
Now I see how you adjusted to our schedule so quickly. [ He doesn't particularly mean to sound playful in his remark, simply feeling like pointing it out. ] ... You could always try growing them here. Even if they cannot be found by normal means, placing a request should work.
[ It caught him a bit off-guard how the melody suddenly drew to a close, granting them a moment of silence before another one would begin. Without a tune to follow, but with little intention to walk away, Ace found himself frozen where he stood, with Tear still in his embrace. ]
After all, you've said it, yourself... it could be worth the wait.
no subject
I think I'd make a poor soldier if I couldn't do at least that. [ And a poor friend, but she keeps quiet about that particular reasoning as he presented the option.
Having never requested anything from home before, the idea of doing so did come with a little uncertainty. Yet others had been asking and receiving their things for much longer, and a few seeds would be doable, wouldn't it? ]
Maybe, it's something to consider for the future. [ Then she could show him herself.
But with the last notes of the melody fading, she found herself at a loss for what to do. Not wanting to part ways either, she stays exactly where she is in his hold, heat slowly rising in her cheeks as she continued looking into his face. Throat going dry, she swallowed once to try and calm the anticipation gathering in her chest, not quite sure what she was expecting of him. ]
no subject
Some of those had been conscious decisions, others, not so much. It was especially the latter that he feared, slowly realising the direction in which all of it was heading might have as well been the result of his own machinations rather than what should have been something purely theirs. After all, it wasn't her sincerity that he put into question, but his own perception of the reality changed by the melodist's presence.
Kind, understanding, loving, Tear was all that to him and he could only hope he'd been able to reciprocate, except how would he ever know how to ask? It would have been so liberating to be granted that knowledge, maybe then he would be able to step forward and make things... clear.
And then, there's what he actually ends up doing, that is stare back, his lips slightly parted in a promise of words of explanation that, nonetheless, never come. Music once again begins filling the hall, except it seems to have significantly slowed down as if in line with the boy's own distorted sense of time. ]
no subject
And then, as if to answer an unspoken plea, the music's return brings with it a soothing calm. Noticing the other people in the hall begin to move with the much slower tempo, the girl reaches up to lightly place a finger against those parted lips. Words wouldn't be enough to express her what she wanted to or help her sort out those feelings more quickly tonight, but there was still the small hope that she would be able to communicate her own gratitude toward him.
For him, for his understanding and patience that went beyond that night at the party. He was still respecting her request, and right now a part of her was regretting having placed down that line when it was clear they both had things to say. But it would be for the better, because when the time came to resolve what it was she felt and give him an answer, she wanted it to be sincere and unclouded.
So following the example of others around them, she gently squeezed the hand in hers and began to lead them in swaying to the melody slowly, eyes full of encouragement despite the anxiety of their situation. If he worried over whether whether the actions of tonight had been theirs, then it was up to her to reassure him that they were. ]
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