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[Linhardt doesn't like being called out so easily on lying, and winds up pulling the bear a little closer to himself, but--

Hubert isn't being snide, or derisive. As much as Linhardt wishes he'd fall for it, so that he didn't have to try and talk about what was keeping him up and impeding his sleep--even with all of the time he's been avoiding others, his naps have been fraught with sudden starts, very sudden dreams and wakings that only served to make him more tired when he tries to wake up. To say nothing of even some of the faculty around the monastery getting on his case when they can actually find him in weird places...

And also nothing to say about the weird swath of problems he has around Hubert. Already, his heart has been doing all sorts of weird things--it had abated slightly with the apology, and these sweets are doing wonders for him, and even having that bear is putting him more at ease. But...]

...I will admit, I have had some difficulty, yes.

[There's the honesty, and he looks at Hubert with a slightly dismayed expression.]

I suppose it doesn't help that my naps haven't been in my usual places, and they've proven rather uncomfortable, but...I think what has been getting to me most is the fact that even when I do sleep, it only appears to be for short amounts of time before I jolt awake.

[He doesn't want to go into the weird dreams he's been having, so he avoids Hubert's gaze again.]

Why do you ask?

[Why are you going out of the way for me? is what he wants to ask, so badly, but he can't bring himself to say the words.]

[Difficulties sleeping, just as predicted. However, Linhardt's explanation isn't quite what he was expecting, and honestly, it sounds like this isn't a problem that can be cured all that easily.

He rests his chin against his hand as he considers.]

Has anything been troubling you lately? Perhaps you're having difficulty sleeping because something's been weighing on your mind.

[Linhardt usually seems so carefree; if something is bothering him, perhaps it could be impacting his naps. It certainly wouldn't do to let this go untreated, so a solution must be found.

...And naturally, the fact that their fight might have had something to do with it goes sailing directly over his head.

Anyway, there isn't an explanation for why he's asked in there, because he's distracted focusing on a solution, but that's probably fine right??]

[Linhardt pauses at the question. It's not that he isn't sure about the answer--he's quite sure, at least in theory, that this whole mess with Hubert bothered him a lot more than he really cared to admit. That much was easy to suss out.

But...]

...Why are you going so far out of your way for me?

[That's out before he can stop it, and he just. Shovels another treat into his mouth to hide the fact that he's not necessarily lying at this point, but stalling the truth out because...

...Why? Maybe he's worried about this turning on him again? Does he actually know why?]

[The question gets him to tip his head a bit, as though he's baffled it needs to be asked in the first place.]

All I do is for Lady Edelgard.

[A practiced answer, rehearsed but no less true. Of course, it... might not actually explain everything since this one does kind of require one to tilt their head and squint to see it.]

You are a member of the Black Eagles house and one of our own. It wouldn't do to treat you poorly or turn a blind eye to your suffering. While I cannot say I approve of your constant naps, they do have their benefits and when you are at your peak, you are one of the most intelligent people in our house. Your intelligence will no doubt serve Lady Edelgard well, so it is in our best interest to allow you the freedom you require as well as the time you need.

[Easy. Simple. Nothing to it.

...He does look like that's not all he has to say, but to be perfectly honest... he doesn't really want to get into it. If it were only for Lady Edelgard's sake, he certainly wouldn't have gone this far. Linhardt surely already knows that. But if it wasn't just for Lady Edelgard, then why did he go to so much trouble? Why did he spend so long making sure everything would be perfect for this apology?

It isn't like him, and to be honest, he has no idea why.]

[...Well, that's about as practiced of an answer as he was expecting. Everything he does is for Edelgard, and really, he shouldn't have been surprised, and while his chest does...something weird in regards to that possibly being the only reason, but surely it's fine.

His gaze doesn't quickly flicker to the door for a second, that's just your imagination.]

...In that case, I suppose it would be prudent to let you know of that much.

[His tone is still rather guarded, but--]

I suppose was rather upset by what had transpired between the two of us, after that rather undignifying display. [He takes another bite of the sweet, chewing and swallowing before speaking again.] I know it's a one-sided consideration, but...I do consider your company preferable. To most within the academy, of course. And perhaps it's bold, but...I would even call you a friend.

[There's that ever forward honesty. He's not really looking at Hubert when he says that, though, and it seems more like he's wracking his brain for a proper answer than anything.]

Try as I might to avoid the problem, it decided to follow me about instead. I think I was worried about something...being lost. At least, that's my hypothesis.

[Linhardt pauses for a second, finishing his current treat, before deciding to offer one to Hubert. A peace offering, perhaps, or...just attempting to be nice. Even if it's weird.]

[It takes a moment for all of that to click into place. You can probably see the wheels turning in his head as he tries to process this and understand exactly what Linhardt is saying. Somehow, despite it being rather straightforward, it takes him a moment.]

You consider me a friend, and you were worried that what happened had destroyed that.

[It's not a question, not really, but it's still spoken aloud anyway to make sure they're on the same page. There's no feelings, no judgment.

But he'd be lying if he said that wasn't a carefully-constructed front, just as so much often is with Hubert.

In reality, it feels as though something has seized hold of his chest and won't let go. It's almost difficult to breathe. At the same time, there's a feeling of intense unease seeping through him, and something else he can't quite identify that roots him to the spot. Even if he wanted to leave (and for some reason he can't quite place, he does want to), nothing could get him to move.

All of this because Linhardt considers him a friend.

Surely something is wrong with him. Perhaps he's coming down with a cold, or maybe he's spent too long working and not enough time resting. Regardless of what it is, such feelings need to be pushed aside. He shouldn't be concerned about something so silly.

As though Linhardt would truly want to be friends with him of all people...]

...Yes. Yes, I do believe that is it.

[Having such a clear cut answer should feel wonderful. It should feel great--it should be the moment where everything finally comes together, and he can understand everything about the situation.

...

So why does it still feel off? Why does it feel like the assumed hex in his body is going haywire and making everything seem all too uncertain? Maybe he's just worried about Hubert deciding to go off on him again. That has to be it, right?

Linhardt can't be sure. And that's making him nervous, honestly, and he's not looking at Hubert to gauge his reaction. If anything, he's expecting another set of cutting remarks...]

[The cutting remarks don't come, instead replaced by a contemplative, almost uncertain look. It isn't the sort of thing he would ever want anyone to see, and were he aware of it, he would have hidden it beneath his usual calm front.

Linhardt truly does consider him a friend. What a strange, bizarre world we live in.]

...You needn't worry about that. I have no intention of reacting in such a way again. As I've said, you are important to Lady Edelgard, and to our house as a whole.

[The words come easily, carefully placed together to create the picture he's aiming for without an ounce of that hesitation still written on his face.]

It is... not often someone would call me a friend, but I can't say I'm opposed to the idea. It can only be beneficial.

[There. It's a bit blunt, perhaps, but that should be good enough. That should calm the strange feelings within him, but if anything that only seems to agitate them. He doesn't understand. He's not sure he wants to understand, but he's never been the sort of person who could look away from something that bothers him.

He gets the feeling that wherever this goes, it isn't going to end well.

That's about when he finally notices that Linhardt's offered him one of the pastries, and he holds up a hand and shakes his head.]

Ah, no, they're for you. I'm not particularly fond of sweets anyway.

[Perhaps that's a little more genuine, showing a little more of the awkwardness he's been displaying around Linhardt since... Well, since that night at the Goddess Tower.]

[Linhardt finally looks up when Hubert tells him he doesn't have to worry, and in that moment, a wave of relief washes over him. Even if it feels careful in some manner, the relief on Linhardt's face is exceedingly genuine, and he seems to let out a contented sigh when he hears that.

In some ways, it's making that strange hex act less weird too. In others...well, it still feels weird, but it's a manageable level of weird. The relief is easily overtaking the feelings that still lay there, and even if it's only a temporary relief, it's enough to see Linhardt smile--genuinely smile.]

Thank you, Hubert. Then...if it is not too forward of me, I would like to call you that much.

[Linhardt will take back the sweet at that awkward comment, but Linhardt doesn't seem too deterred as he takes a bite from it, swallowing it down before speaking again.]

In that case, you simply must tell me what I can do for you in kind, then. I would certainly like to do something to repay this much effort.

[...]

While expending as little of my own, of course.

[...That's actually somewhat wry, a little bit of an easy joke.]

[Ah, that smile... It's different from the ones he's seen Linhardt wear before. It's more honest, isn't it? Something genuine, that so few people get to see. He'd be lying if he said it didn't set those bizarre emotions off again, though he still has no clue why he's reacting in such a way. He'll have to look into that...

But for now, Linhardt's words earn a smirk before he shakes his head.]

Nonsense. There's no need for you to repay anything. I've done what I set out to do, there's no repayment necessary.

[If we're both okay (sort of) now, then the apology was a success. Who knew sweets were the way to go? He supposes he'll have to actually find Mercedes and Annette and thank them later... But that's going to be awkward...

Anyway, for now everything really does seem to be just fine.]

No, no, I insist!

[Linhardt's eyes seem to light up at that, and he actually takes a step closer to Hubert in somewhat ecstatic glee, practically a living exclamation mark in this moment--]

After all, it would be an effort put forth in my wish--to say nothing of being able to go out of my way for your sake, my friend. I would quite like to be able to do that.

[there's that forwardness again oh my god LIN]

[It's a bit hard to find such excitement annoying, even though he probably should. Instead, it gets a short, sharp laugh out of him. It's a bit overwhelming, if he's honest, but there's nothing about it he really dislikes.]

I imagine nothing will change your mind, then. Very well, I won't stop you if that's what you wish to do. There isn't anything I need your assistance in now, but I suspect you'll find some way to help when I least expect it.

[It's almost fond. Almost.]

Oh, just you wait. I will find some way to help you and repay your efforts.

[lin. lin that's gay as hell.]

For now, however...I do want to say that I forgive you for what transpired. Just so we are clear.

[It's hard not to forgive when he's snuggling a cute teddybear and eating enough sweets to kill a man, jesus christ?]

[He nods at that.]

I'm pleased to hear it. It will not happen again.

[He's not even sure he could explain what happened even if he tried... But at least things with Linhardt are settled. It almost feels like a weight has been lifted from him, though he hadn't thought it was worrying him that badly...]

You have my thanks for that, and agreeing to meet me in the first place.

It truly isn't any trouble. I hadn't known what to expect, but I am glad to have come to see you.

[He almost wants an excuse to stay longer, if he's being completely honest--but that's threatening to make those feelings start up again...]

Should I take my leave?

[He doesn't make to leave yet, but rather, he's asking. He knows Hubert will likely shoo him out, but...]

[Ah, that's... a good question, isn't it...

He doesn't have any reason for Linhardt to stay. There isn't anything else he needs to address, and he has no reason to keep Linhardt here when he could be working and Linhardt could be napping. So even though there isn't any reason for it, he hesitates.]

Feel free. I do have some work to get back to.

[The words come anyway, and he can feel something in him sink at them. They're as poised as always, no hint of this strange feeling. He should be glad about that, and yet for some reason, he isn't.

Whatever this is really must be dire.]

It goes without saying, but make sure you get some rest. Perhaps you'll be able to sleep easier now.

I'll see if I can't get some rest, then.

[He feels some sort of weird, sinking feeling at that...maybe the hex is powered by proximity to Hubert, then?

Hm. He'll have to study this. Either way, he will take a bow before making sure the rest of the sweets are secured, along with the bear that he literally has not stopped essentially cuddling with all of this time.

But before he goes, he turns back to Hubert before he opens the door--]

Let's meet up again soon, yes? Under less stressful circumstances.

[...That helps a bit, but it really depends on Hubert's answer, at this point.]

[Linhardt's words are almost comforting, in some strange way. Perhaps it's the reassurance that everything really is all right? It's not like he needed something like that, though...]

Of course. Should you need something, I'm sure I can make time for it.

[It's not quite sarcastic, but it is a wry acknowledgement of just how busy he is. The corners of his mouth twitch upward into something that might have been a smile on anyone else.]

[It's been a rather nice month since Linhardt and Hubert made up; Linhardt's gone back to a more normal level of slacking off and Hubert's still his very broody, very shady self, but things are nice, honestly. The two of them tend to have time to spend together (though it's mostly dependent on Hubert's free time, more than anything, because gods only know that Linhardt's not doing much), and it's nice; Linhardt does enjoy the man's company around the monastery, and it does at least seem to help that odd hex that's been placed on him stay at bay for a little while longer.

Even with their missions, and with things around the monastery continuing to go in some weird directions...it's nice, honestly.

...Even despite all of the weird looks Linhardt sees from time to time from the other students. Knowing glances between certain ones, chattering just barely out of earshot, he's certain he heard something about a bet from Caspar but the boy's been utterly tight lipped on it outside of that and it's confusing? It's confusing. But other than that, things are good, and Linhardt is starting to find himself getting fonder of spending time with Hubert, and he's even at least trying to put forth and effort so that he can be...well, slightly less of an active burden. Outside of focusing on his faith magic, at least.

It's actually why he decides to take up Ferdinand's invitation to a ball hosted by his family for the nobility; Linhardt certainly wouldn't have done this on his own, despite many of his classmates going, because...honestly, balls are too much work, even the school hosted one was too much work to deal with and he was simply sure he'd be bored to tears, there.

That changed when it was mentioned that Hubert was going. He's not sure why there was some sort of weirdly knowing look going on there when he changed his mind, but...he wasn't going to question it.

The ball is currently rather lovely, after all, and even if Linhardt feels out of place, he's doing his best to enjoy himself. Dance with noblewomen if they ask for it, attempt to be polite, and more or less trying not to utterly die of boredom while he adjusts his outfit and hair a bit from time to time. He's got the little ponytail styled a little different since it's grown out, tied more off into a tiny bun; it's a look that will undoubtedly look better if he grows his hair out more, and his deep green outfit compliments everything rather nicely.

He's kind of glad that he put forth the effort, even if he's had yet to see Hubert. He's sticking more toward the walls in the hopes of finding him, but he's hoping another noble doesn't come up and try to ask him to dance again...he's really not sure how much more of this he can deal with without feeling like escaping again. And this time there wasn't anywhere to escape to...]

[In some ways, it's hard to believe it's been a month since his discussion with Linhardt. Perhaps it's because he's so busy, or perhaps it's because it seems like Linhardt has become a fixture in his life.

He's still working just as hard for Lady Edelgard, but he's found spare time to spend with Linhardt multiple days a week, even when he'd usually try to spend that time on something he'd deem more "useful". His personal studies in reason magic haven't been slacking, but things he would normally do to fill the rest of his day (like listen in on almost everyone in the monastery) have fallen by the wayside in favor of spending time with Linhardt. He was a bit apprehensive about it at first, but he hasn't noticed any downsides. If anything, spending more time with Linhardt has proved useful - the man seems to be doing more now, pushing himself harder than he has in the past. It isn't much, but considering Linhardt's intellect, it certainly could prove useful.

That doesn't mean he's been blind to the others in the monastery. It almost feels like they're all in on some private joke given the way they huddle together and talk when he passes. But surely it's just his imagination, there's simply no way they could all be in on something like that.

...He does have to admit that something seems up with Lady Edelgard, though... Occasionally she gives him these looks that he can't place. They seem knowing. He'll have to ask her about it later, but he's not sure he knows how to approach it. He certainly wouldn't want to accuse her of anything.

Anyway, that's not important right now. What is important is the ball Ferdinand's father is hosting. It's the sort of grand affair that all important nobles of the empire are required to attend, and Lady Edelgard wouldn't miss it for the world.

Not that either of them want to go, of course. But it is vital for gathering more information and learning who will support Lady Edelgard when the time comes. It's absolutely vital, so neither of them can stand around and be bored like at the school ball.

In fact, he's scarcely seen Lady Edelgard since they arrived. She swept off to deal with one set of nobles while he handles the other, and they'll met once they're done to compare notes. It's all laid out, a tactical battle of wits that's far more interesting than the dancing the others are doing.

He's finished up with the nobles he was tasked with examining already, which is severely disappointing. Not a single one worthy of assisting Lady Edelgard... Unless she's had any luck, this might have been the worst outcome. He's learned something, so it certainly wasn't useless, but it's frustrating nonetheless.

Perhaps he was being too intimidating or otherwise hugging the walls too much, because much to his chagrin, Ferdinand approaches. He's unable to escape the conversation, but thankfully, Ferdinand doesn't seem inclined to hold him captive for long - instead he directs his attention to Linhardt with a bright smile.

Linhardt is here? He hadn't heard that Linhardt was planning on coming. Hmm. What on earth could Linhardt possibly want to do here? This seems like the sort of trouble Linhardt would want to avoid. Well, it would be rude not to greet him, so Hubert thanks Ferdinand (as carefully as he can without letting any sort of genuine interest in the conversation slip) and excuses himself.

Perhaps it's silly, but somehow it hadn't occurred to him that Linhardt would be dressed up for the dance. As he approaches, he's suddenly struck with that knowledge, and with the absolutely bizarre sensation of feeling as though his heart has stopped.

With his hair pulled back like that, he looks rather cute. Objectively speaking. It's no wonder he's been asked to dance tonight. The outfit compliments his unique hair color nicely, and he looks surprisingly... well, noble.

It's something Hubert sometimes forgets, that Linhardt is indeed the son of a nobleman.

Of course, Hubert has also dressed up tonight. His hair is exactly the same as always (because of course it is, do you really think he'd go to a ball and not look like an emo kid) but he's swapped out the uniform for a proper suit, though perhaps surprisingly it isn't entirely in blacks, grays, and whites. Lady Edelgard had disapproved so strongly of his first outfit that she chose this one; there's more of an emphasis on deep reds and light gold - nothing gaudy, of course, but covered in the usual dark colored suit. It's a bit much for him personally, but Lady Edelgard had insisted that he needed to look good. For the noble women, of course.

He approaches Linhardt, feeling strangely tongue-tied as he tries not to openly stare at his classmate.]

Good evening. I hadn't realized you would be attending this event.

[No judgment about Linhardt attending, and no judgment about the event either, even though he certainly has plenty of that to spare.]

[Well, if there was any way to bring him to alertness in this bore of a ball, Hubert certainly found it the very second he opened his mouth. Linhardt's gaze darts to Hubert when he hears him speak, and...

Oh.

Linhardt has never been one to really...well, realize people can look attractive with the right combination of colors, the right look, or anything like that. He usually didn't care about such things; he had things to focus on that didn't involve that, and as far as he was concerned, he couldn't care less.

Despite all of that, it takes a surprising amount of time for Linhardt to get his bearing; he would have expected Hubert to be dressed all in black like the creature of the night he attempts to emulate every day of his life, but those reds and the golds...they're doing something flattering to Hubert, and he's pretty sure that hex is going absolutely haywire right now. Where Hubert's heart has stopped, Linhardt's is picking up the slack by beating a million miles a minute as he finds himself simply staring at this surprisingly attractive ensemble on his friend. It's...lovely, really, and he's not quite sure when that word entered his vocabulary to describe Hubert.

(He's also not sure if he truly minds it being there, because it's at least truthful.)

It takes him a small while to realize he's just been staring--something he hopes Hubert doesn't call him on, or that nobody was paying attention to. Once his bearings are gathered, however, Linhardt gives Hubert an all too practiced, but rather elegant bow.]

I cannot simply shirk my noble duties forever, as much as I would truly prefer to. Perhaps embracing some of these responsibilities will ensure I can avoid some at a later date... [Linhardt seems to chuckle a bit, raising himself up and straightening himself out.] It's quite good to see you here, Hubert. Have the festivities proven entertaining for you, thus far?

[He's doing his best to keep a somewhat noble bearing, but oh my god. This is hard. Save him, Hubie.]

Edited 2019-08-11 04:01 (UTC)

[He does notice the pause, but he can't really say he minds it. It isn't as though he's waiting on Linhardt to reply with no other distractions, because Linhardt himself is certainly enough of one as is. So the pause is noticed, but not something he dwells on, and he's perfectly content to move on when Linhardt speaks.

...Well, mostly content.]

Of course. Come with me.

[He steps closer and lowers his voice.]

You sound like you're about to die. I know of somewhere you can speak freely.

[He's smirking when he pulls back, and inclines his head so Linhardt will follow him.]

[...Hubert, you are literally the only valid person in this room.

Besides himself, of course. And...maybe even Edelgard, where ever she is, she's been odd but surprisingly okay lately but that is beside the point when his voice drops to that whisper (that's...doing something he doesn't wanna think about to him)--]

Oh, thank you. You're the best.

[Those words are whispered while he follows along, absolutely unhesitating. He's at least slightly thankful nobody seems to stare or do anything, though he's not entirely sure. Did Ferdinand just catch a glimpse and smile...?

Linhardt's not sure, but either way, lead the way Hubert. He is so here to not be dying.]

[The place he leads Linhardt to is a balcony up a flight of stairs. It overlooks the ballroom where everyone is gathered, but it's tucked back far enough not to let their voices carry or risk having them stared at by everyone below. There are curtains that can be drawn as well if necessary, but that's hardly the sort of thing they'll need. There are also a couple of chairs up here and a small table between them, should they decide they don't want to stand.]

This is hardly the first time I've attended an event here. Ferdinand was kind enough to show us this spot once.

["Us" meaning himself and Lady Edelgard, of course.]

[He tries not to look too visibly relieved once they're out of the room and finally on the balcony, allowing himself to finally breathe and ease himself a bit. He does still straighten himself up a bit, but mostly so it doesn't look weird to anyone else. Linhardt's so, so glad to be out of the range of everyone else, though, the relief is almost palpable.........]

I suppose that man is useful for something other than spouting hot air...

[JESUS LIN, THAT MAN HAS A FAMILY?]

I truly don't know how you and Edelgard do this all of the time. This is a far bigger hassle than the school dance...at this point, I almost feel like I understand Bernadetta's desire to stay in one place and never leave.

[...He's a little less willing to drag poor Bernie, he sounds more understanding there but he does look up at Hubert with something of a smile.]

...It is quite nice, however, to finally spend some time in good company.

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