Sky Colonel

[damn_juicebox]

WHO: Rukia, OTA
WHAT: After over a year of military service, Rukia is promoted to the rank of Colonel. She's super proud about it and drags along anyone who wants to attend the ceremony.
WHEN: November 19th - 21st
WHERE: Esdham
NOTES: Feel free to mingle with each other too! I'll set up some extra links for it below. In the meantime, have some prompts.


The Journey

The special airline that carried passengers to Esdham departed early in the day on the 19th. The skies were clear and the air was crisp, tinged with the scent of woodsmoke from hundreds of piping chimneys. Rukia had packed a small suitcase, staying up late the night before to iron her uniform, polish her boots, and go over everything three times to ensure that she was prepared for this trip. She'd been promoted in the military before, but to achieve a rank of this caliber was truly something special to her. It was reminiscent of the pride she'd felt when she'd been assigned to the 13th Division under Captain Ukitake. The only difference was that she'd made it here on her own merits this time, rather than being accepted simply because of her adoption into a noble family.

Both of her chocobos were neatly groomed, but left at the stables for the time being. She wasn't sure if she was supposed to bring them to Esdham with her, but if she did need either one, her Beastmaster job would allow her to summon one of them to her side.

At the docks, Rukia waited patiently as the gangplank was lowered, then climbed aboard the ship and surrendered her luggage before moving to the side and grasping the railing. She took a deep breath of the cool morning air and smiled. Once everyone was aboard, they could depart. Her heart was already pounding with excitement in her chest. She'd seen Sephiroth's ceremony previously so she knew a little about what to expect, but that did little to quiet her nervous anticipation. Once she arrived in Esdham, she'd have to pay a visit to the salon to make sure her nails and hair looked their absolute best if she was going to be any kind of representative.

* * * * *

The Ceremony

Though the other Heroes likely weren't permitted on the stage unless they were in the military themselves, they'd at least get a good seat. It was a brisk and formal affair, with a brass band to play the Esdham anthem when the ceremony began. Rukia stood off to the side with her hands clasped neatly behind her back, her posture straight, her chin held high. Though she schooled her expression to be serious, every now and then a little grin would sneak onto her face.

The promotion of the lower ranked officers took place first, and she applauded them with her gloved hands. When at least they called her name, she stepped forward, ascending the short trio of steps that led up the dais to approach the podium. She was radiating pride, her countenance aglow when they pinned the new insignia to her pristine uniform. Humbly she accepted the ceremonial sword of Durendal in both hands, bowing low to signify her gratitude.

Then she turned to bow to the stands, and her eyes briefly sought out the section where her friends were seated. Catching their gaze she smiled before she dipped forward and straightened with a salute. Once the applause started, she couldn't help herself from smiling brightly.

Turning to shake the hands of her superiors, and General Varaha's as well, she realized that the president was conspicuously absent. "He" had been there for Sephiroth's orientation, hadn't he? It was unusual, but Rukia decided to wait until after the ceremony to ask. There was likely a good reason for it. For now she accepted a scroll neatly bound with a red ribbon that assigned a ship to her name, a small contingent of soldiers, and her own private military quarters. She was simply too happy right now to be worried about much else.

* * * * *

Afterwards

Once Rukia had time to settle into her new quarters and change her clothes into something less formal, she was eager to meet with her friends. The news she'd received about the president's condition concerned her greatly, as did the refusal to allow her to visit in person. They'd said the information was confidential and only on a need-to-know basis, and she meant to uphold those orders for now.

But it still seemed as if something more should be done.

For now, she would have to push the matter aside and focus on tonight's celebrations before the airship departed on the morrow. It was much warmer in Esdham this time of year than it was in Aqures Ixen, so she might as well enjoy the good weather and better company while she could. Fretting could wait just one day.

Comments

November 19th

[damn_juicebox]

[For meeting up, traveling, getting settled in Esdham, and doing other activities for the day before the ceremony.]

actually november 18th! sorry for the lateness :C

[redigere]

[Now that she's had some time to get used to being in this new world, Naminé figures it's high time she headed back to the chocobo farm. She'd promised to visit Cloud and Zack there, after all, and she can't deny that there's a part of her that wants to be around the other chocobos in general. Not just because she's hoping to find a pair for her and Sora, though that is a big part of her visit. No, she wants to do a little personal research, too. Would she be able to handle their temperaments, is chocobo riding difficult-- that sort of thing.

Luckily she manages to avoid (read: run away from) most monsters on the way to the farm, and finally she reaches the gate, planting her hands on the wood and peering up to get a glimpse of the chocobos.

Oh, is that someone already in the pen? Naminé blinks curiously, silently watching.]

WHO'S LATE NOW? (Spoilers: It's me)

[damn_juicebox]

[The person standing in the pen is a lot shorter than most other chocobo riders. In fact, the green and black chocobos have to bend their necks to receive the attention they crave from the shorter woman, both of her hands outstretched to smooth their feathers back with open affection on her face.]

I have no need for bids of good behavior, as this will be a short trip. Mind Cloud and the others just the same. We can resume our training once I return.

[The black one, slightly smaller and presumably younger than the green, spots Naminé with a curious trill, the plumed crest on the top of its head lifting.]

Wahhhrk?

[The green one's head turns as well, though she holds her head higher out of...what, pride? Vanity? It's strange to say that a chocobo can look condescending, but if it's possible, the green one certainly has some sort of haughty air to it.]

[Rukia turns to look as well, then smiles upon seeing Naminé. She was one of the friends of that boy who so greatly resembled Vanitas, who showed up to see him face his Shadow.]

I remember seeing you before, at the labs. Greetings. I'm Rukia.

[She juts her thumb at the chocobos.]

This is Yuki, and Kokuyo.

[The black one, Kokuyo, chirps happily with a jump and flap of its wings. Yuki continues to stare at Naminé with a half-lidded look down the length of her curved beak.]

no worries! we can be on the late train together

[redigere]

Hello! I'm Naminé. It's nice to see you again.

[Especially now that they're under more pleasant circumstances. She gives a cheerful wave to the chocobos as well, even if the green one doesn't look very pleased at her. Did she interrupt their time with Rukia?]

And it's nice to meet you, Yuki, Kokuyo. I'm sorry for appearing out of nowhere. I was hoping to find a chocobo of my own today.

choo choo aw yieah

[damn_juicebox]

[It's nothing personal. Yuki doesn't look pleased to see anyone, not even Rukia's best friend or her previous boyfriend. She's more concerned with preening her emerald feathers and looking as stunning as possible.]

Oh? It's quite the expedition, but the reward are worthwhile. I've considered adopting two more myself, as the Santa Claus job requires four for a flying sleigh.

[She gives the matter some thought.]

Why don't we go together? It's certainly safer than going alone for either of us.

November 20th

[damn_juicebox]

[For the day of the ceremony -- preparing, attending, and meeting up afterward for bar fights drinks, food, or just a nice walk around town.]

Re: November 20th

[neverfirstclass]

[Rather than take the flight to Esdham, Cloud and Zack made their own way there. He'd debated traveling with the others and it would have been nice, but he didn't want his motion sickness bringing anyone down and he himself wanted to be in good condition for Rukia's promotion.

It wasn't simply because he was a Hero that he was in attendance. He was military back in his own world, and he respected the others for serving. The only reason he hadn't been at any of Sephiroth's promotions was because the Silver Elite never talked about it or openly invited anyone. He would have been there had he known.

As Rukia's promotion is made official and the sword and title handed to her he stands up, clapping for her achievement. As the salute is given, it is returned.]

[red_planet_blues]

[After the ceremony, Sparks approaches with two drinks in hand. He's all done up in his dress uniform, since it's an official occasion. He holds on of the drinks out to her.]

Congrats on the promotion. Time sure goes fast 'round here, huh.

[damn_juicebox]

I can't disagree with that.

[She chuckles, accepting the glass and lightly tapping it to his as a silent toast before taking a sip. Ordinarily she doesn't drink, but it's a special occasion, and a little harmless celebration drink isn't out of order.]

You look sharp tonight, Marshal. A shame you don't wear this uniform more often!

[red_planet_blues]

I've been at the top of the ranks here longer than it took me to get there. Meanin' it's been way too fast.


[And he'd definitely toast to the occasion too. The compliment catches him off guard, though.]

Oh, this? Um, thanks. I guess we don't get enough reasons to get all fancied up, huh. Especially lately.

[Thanks for keeping everyone so busy, Calamity.]

[damn_juicebox]

That's true. I rarely wear casual clothing save when I come here, just to signify that I'm off-duty and approachable.

[That gives her a thoughtful moment. The last time she wore something truly elegant was New Year's Eve, when she and Sparks danced together.]

You're right, though. It's hard to believe it's been a full year already. Let us hope we find a way to quiet the Calamity soon. It would be nice to have more excuses to spend moments like these with our friends.

[jadethenecromancer]

[Although Jade's still feeling a little under the weather after dealing with his Shadow, he's glad he decided to come watch the ceremony despite that. The change of scenery is a welcome diversion.

Besides, seeing Rukia positively glowing up on the stage, it's hard not to grin a bit himself. She seems to take an equal amount of pride in her military achievements as she does in her questionable artistic works. It's another trait of hers that's rather endearing to witness.

Afterwards, he waits until things settle down a bit before approaching Rukia and snapping a cheerful salute.]

Congratulations on your promotion, Colonel Kuchiki.

[damn_juicebox]

[She's still holding her sword, unsure what to do with it, when she turns and notices Jade's approach. Seeing his smile, her grin appears quickly as Rukia turns to face him, returning the salute. Were they in private, she'd probably just laugh and slap his arm away to insist there's no need for that kind of formality. But as long as she's out in a place where her words and actions can be seen by other members of her company, she appreciates the sign of respect for what it is, even if she doubts he's all that serious about it.]

Thank you, Major Curtiss.

[Just because he left the army doesn't mean he's been stripped of his rank! She lowers her arm, relaxing subtly even as she maintains her proud, straight posture.]

I'm pleased you were able to make the journey. How are you feeling?

[More specifically, how is his face? She did kind of clock him in the jaw at one point, after all. Fortunately for Jade, her regret for hitting him at least prevents her from taking hold of his chin to examine him for injuries as she might normally attempt.]

[jadethenecromancer]

[Knowing Rukia, she'd immediately notice if he tried deflecting the question. He has no choice but to opt for honesty here.]

Not so bad. Still a little raw from the whole experience, but I can manage. Although...

[A small smirk tugs at his lips as he reaches up to rub his jaw. The bruise isn't as visible as it was before, but it's definitely still there.]

I suppose I didn't escape quite unscathed, did I?

[damn_juicebox]

Hmph. It was necessary to make you understand.

[She'd fold her arms if she wasn't holding the ceremonial sword. But her chiding tone and expression soften a little.]

Nonetheless, I apologize for any lingering pain. Perhaps next time you'll notify me before you intend to do anything that foolish on your own.

[She gives his chest a light bump with the back of her hand as she turns and begins to walk.]

I don't think I need to introduce you to anyone you don't already know. Care for a walk around town?

[dammit_flynn]

[ Without having any need to be dragged, Yuri went willingly with Rukia for her big day. He spent a good amount of time teasing her and congratulating her all the same. For the special occasion, he made a small effort to dress accordingly, mostly.

At least he had clothes with buttons and didn't look like he came off the street. Today was the big day for his long time friend. He wasn't going to ruin it at the very least. All while the ceremony is happening, he watched her and grinned at her throughout the process. He had to admit, military settings and places were never really his thing but he made exceptions for his friends.

When the ceremony was over, Yuri approached her with a strong arm around her neck in a playful gesture. ]

Colonel huh?

[ Yep, he's pretty proud even if he doesn't care too much for service. Though he did admit that being in such a scenario is nostalgic. ]

[damn_juicebox]

[Caught by surprise, Rukia tips toward Yuri on one foot, nearly losing her balance. Once she's got both boots on the ground, she chuckles, grinning up at him.]

Indeed. I know you're not really the military type, though.

[So the fact that he showed up at all speaks volumes as to their friendship. Moreover he actually dressed up. She's never even seen him do that before.]

And don't you look handsome! Planning on seducing some of the soldiers on base~?

[dammit_flynn]

[ He even did the honor of pulling his hair back in a low ponytail. Yes, for someone who is usually a slob-- he's quite good at dressing himself up given the chance. It just proves how much respect he has for his friend. He definitely doesn't find the military interesting at all and he doesn't want to be involved with them anymore than he has to, but Rukia is family. He does a lot of things for the people he cares about. He just raises his brow at her chuckling and grinning. ]

You got that right. All of this brings back rather unpleasant memories if you think about it.

[ He shrugged a bit sarcastically. ]

Jealous? [ He teases. ] I can clean up pretty well if I want to you know? That comment is almost offending!

[ He replied patting her on the head. He'd ruffle her hair but they're in public and she's dressed nicely. He's being somewhat respectful. ]

I'm not interested in Soldiers so you don't have to worry about that Shorty.

[damn_juicebox]

[She chuckles. Jealous!]

Flirt all you like. After all, we slept together.

[Look at the size of that mischievous grin. AND YET, she doesn't even mention Mistletoegate from last year. Why? Because it never happened.]

I don't know why I'd be worried. I'm actually curious to see what type of people you prefer to date. I suppose there's never really been time for that sort of thing.

November 21st

[damn_juicebox]

[For wrapping up any last business in Esdham, and making the journey back home.]

Afterwards

[shinrasfinest]

He'd been at the ceremony, as was his own duty as a Colonel himself, but as called for there hadn't been much more than a dutiful twitch of a smile that had followed Rukia's ascension into the highest rank that a Hero of Light could attain. It easily drew his memories back to his own promotion and how flush with pride he'd felt back then as well. He hoped Rukia were ready for all the paperwork extra responsibility that came with her new role, and was somewhat pleased that she hadn't opted to also specialize with ground forces.

Sometime after the ceremony, as Rukia were settling into her new quarters at the barracks, there came a firm double-knock on the closed door.

[damn_juicebox]

[Rukia is staring at the wall thoughtfully, Durandal cradled in both of her hands. Should she hang it up here, or at home? It seems more appropriate to have it here, but as she spends more time in Aqures Ixen than Esdham...]

[Her debate is put on hold as she turns at the sound of the knock, surprised.]

It's open.

[She puts the sword down on her empty desk, brushing her palms against her hips before walking toward the door. The matter of the president's condition still weighs heavily upon her mind as well, as did her strict instructions to keep the matter confidential. The only person who truly needs to know is Jade, as he has some experience with treating unusual illnesses. That means she hasn't really been able to justify informing anyone else.]

[When she sees Sephiroth, the trouble clouding her thoughts dispels and she smiles.]

We meet again. I wasn't aware we were assigned our own room and office upon being promoted to Colonel, so I was ill prepared to add much in the way of decoration.

[To say the least. Other than the sword on the desk, there's absolutely nothing there in the way of personal effects.]

What brings you here?

[shinrasfinest]

[The door swings open only after Rukia's response is heard and Sephiroth takes just a couple of steps into the room. Looking around, though it's all the same as his own except this one is newly made up so really there isn't anything to see, as such. Still, it's a respectful smile that returns Rukia's own, followed by a sharp nod.]

It'll take some time to grow into, but you'll manage.

[Sephiroth tries to relax his straight posture a little bit more, a difficult feat in it's own right given his 'on duty' mannerisms whenever he's at work, and narrows his eyes for a second at Rukia; what did she think he was here for?]

I wanted to congratulate you, personally. Though the ceremonies are always something special...well, we're the only two in this position, currently.

[Should he salute now? Hold his hand out for her to shake? Sephiroth's not really sure what should be the appropriate social etiquette right in this moment and it's written all over the tension in his shoulders that he can't quite make relax away at will.]

[damn_juicebox]

[No mention of the queen... That's a pity. She was hoping he would have been told, given that he's the same rank as she is. It'll have to stay confidential, then.]

Thank you. I wish I had more to show you, but you're welcome to sit anywhere you please.

[She nods at the bed. No harm sitting there, she hasn't even had a chance to sleep in it yet. When she looks back at him, she hesitates for a moment. Is that...awkwardness? It sure is. With a little grin, Rukia steps forward, picks up his wrist, and promptly delivers a professional high five.]

Indeed! That's why I chose to be an airship colonel, so we could diversify our range. But I confess I've always had a fondness for high places, so I couldn't be more pleased.

[shinrasfinest]

[Need to know means need to know after all, so even if he might know Sephiroth would also be under orders to keep it confidential. Impossible to know for sure.

Taking his wrist is met with a fleeting second of firm hesitation before it's raised and then both eyebrows shoot up in surprise as she essentially high-fives his hand. He blinks a few times, and flicks his gaze between her face and his hand once before dropping it-

-and then all that awkward just seems to boil over into laughter. It's ridiculous how they all hold themselves to such 'etiquette' isn't it? Sephiroth's deep tones quickly quieten into a chuckle, but with an amused grin he then shakes his head at her.]

I'm happy for you, honestly. You deserve it for all of your hard work.

[Then he'll take the few strides over towards the bed and sit down on the end of it, appearing a lot more casual now that the tension has been all but chuckled away.]

I imagine you'll be taking a lot of time up in the airship, then, rather than getting too embroiled with things down here.