Rukia Kuchiki (
damn_juicebox) wrote in
melodiesoflife2016-11-17 06:46 am
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Entry tags:
Sky Colonel
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.
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.
November 20th
bar fightsdrinks, food, or just a nice walk around town.]Re: November 20th
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.]
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Congrats on the promotion. Time sure goes fast 'round here, huh.
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[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!
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[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.]
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[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.
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[She bows her head in thought. She doesn't know all that much about the holiday, but she agrees, she'd like to do something nice for the people of the town, and elsewhere too.]
[She may or may not be considering how to work some sort of rabbit theme into the equation too, but as far as she knows, there are no Starlight Rabbits. Pity.]
Perhaps...caroling?
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Or maybe it'd just be better if we focused on fixin' stuff for 'em instead. They'd probably like that better, right?
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[Her gaze is somber despite the warm buzz of the alcohol. She hates what the enemies of this world have done to the people...hates it more when that wrath was directed at the Heroes. Narasimha's murders, the zombie attacks, and that's only what happened while she was here. And the reports of what took place in Downapolis are heartwrenchingly gruesome.]
Ah...I confess I don't possess any carpentry skills. But if you wouldn't mind showing me what needs to be done, I'm willing to learn.
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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.
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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.]
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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?
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[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?
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[Really, though, he did learn his lesson. No getting away with foolishness on Rukia's watch.
At her suggestion he gives a small shrug and follows her lead.]
Sure, why not? It's been a while since I last visited.
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Picturing you as a 'boy' is far beyond me.
[She sighs, rubbing the back of her head, but the jest remains light and good-natured. Wearing the formal uniform, her posture is more rigid and proud than usual, and definitely a marked contrast to those she trusts enough to expose her more casual side. As a soldier, she has a certain reputation to uphold, particularly as one who is not of this world.]
[But the farther they move away from the ceremonial grounds, the easier her stride becomes, and it isn't long before her smile follows suit.]
[Or maybe that's just due to the prolonged exposure to her current companion.]
...Thank you for coming.
[It's just a promotion, but it is kind of a big deal for her. And she knows he has his reasons to avoid this city, so she appreciates his willingness to make an appearance just the same.]
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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. ]
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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~?
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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.
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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.
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[ He ruffles his hair a bit at the comment. He didn't seem fazed by her answer either. He just gives her a brief chuckle instead. Such a mischievous little girl she was and not at the same time. Rukia definitely acted ten times older than she looked and is much older than that too. ]
I'm not interested if that helps any. Dating's a pain and people in relationships seem troublesome also.
[ He shrugs. ]
Anyway, what do you want for dinner? I'm sure you're famished.
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[She settles her hands on her hips, studying him curiously. She was in a relationship, and didn't think she'd been any more or less troublesome than usual. Maybe he's just afraid of commitment. Or rejection!]
[He's right about her being hungry, though, and the mention earns a wider grin.]
I hadn't decided. People will probably want to go out for dinner, so I suppose it depends on what kind of restaurant it is. Why, was there something in particular you wanted?
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[ As funny and silly Yuffie was, Yuri couldn't find himself being in a serious relationship with the girl. She was like a little sister, who had a lot of struggles in her life. Plus, even when they did go on that one "date," he really didn't feel it to be anymore than two friends spending time with each other or a pai of siblings spending family time with each other. ]
Nah. I can have anything. What you want is more important. This is for you after all.
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Oh?
[Rukia's head tips slightly.]
What about karaoke then?
[Because she had a lot of fun when she and Lailah went out and tried it last time. It might be fun to see if Yuri can sing.]
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Karaoke?
[ He's never heard of that before so it took him a moment to ponder. ]
That machine that people were talking about that plays songs right? You sing to it?
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