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[Truthfully speaking, this Ball was nothing more than a glorified dance class in Linhardt's mind. They were practically obligated to attend and partake, dancing with people and exchanging smiles and pleasantries; a ball like this was at least somewhat important to the nobility, Linhardt was sure, but as far as he was concerned? He had no business here, and the first chance he could get out, he took gladly.

He wasn't altogether sure about where to go, honestly; he could certainly just turn in for the night on his bed, or get back to his crest research, but there was another curiosity that he wanted to take a look at; the Goddess Tower. The details were a little fuzzy in Linhardt's mind, but he had heard some so-called rumors about what happened within the tower. Something interesting would happen if two people entered the tower...was it that they would be blessed by the Goddess if they shared a vow, or that they would be cursed for defiling her tower? Linhardt couldn't really recall off the top of his head, as it wasn't a topic that interested him too much, but...well, it was an interesting research opportunity and there was certainly a first time for everything.

But of course, he knew very well he wasn't exactly destined for much in the love department. As far as he was concerned, the Goddess Tower would be a once in a lifetime napping spot, and Linhardt intended to take the bait. It was surprisingly quiet, though he didn't doubt that there were people waiting to come in and try to find their 'true love', as they would likely call it. Linhardt finds his way to a nice spot within the tower, settling himself in for what's likely to be an interesting sleep, if nothing else.

Who knows, maybe he'll get to eavesdrop on some unlucky sap within the tower before he nods off, or perhaps even hear someone find the love of their life. The latter would certainly be a nice thought, for one of the others, perhaps. That would at least be interesting to hear...]

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[Six months have passed since the attack on the fort and Caspar's unfortunate (but necessary) death. Things have gone much more smoothly since then; the Empire is primarily under Lady Edelgard's control and they have expanded their sights to the kingdom to the north. Her Majesty had entrusted securing the kingdom to him, and it was through his negotiations with Cornelia that much of the kingdom is slowly bending a knee to the empire. As they should.

Of course, that doesn't mean his job is easy or safe. He's seen plenty of battles, and always come out on top. The red path he's cut through the kingdom in the name of Her Majesty's conquest is almost astounding, but considering just how many people he has at his disposal, it isn't surprising.

War is second nature to Hubert. He was never cut out to be a student at Garreg Mach, but commanding troops on a battlefield is something that comes so easily to him it's a bit frightening. Perhaps that's why Lady Edelgard allows him to work without interruption for the most part. He would prefer to be by her side and she knows it, so when she calls him back to the capital, he is all to eager to return.

Lady Edelgard isn't the only person he's missed, however. Linhardt is perpetually in his thoughts and whenever he has a spare moment to himself, he works on his letters. There isn't always important information to send, but even if the letters were nothing but updates on his battles, he would send them.

...After at least two or three revisions, of course. He cannot let any valuable information slip, but even more than that, he wouldn't wish to write anything that might upset or concern Linhardt. He misses his friend - so much it's almost painful.

But all that ends today. He's just arrived back in the capital and met with Her Majesty. Lady Edelgard had to dismiss him early, and gave him the very confusing hint that Linhardt was probably lost in the capital.

Considering how safe it is, there's no reason to worry about Linhardt being assassinated or anything of the sort, but his steps are still quick as he leaves.

He finds Linhardt near the gardens - a showy and bright display of flowers and nature fit perfectly into the front of a large stretch of shops and the like. The whole thing has never been of any interest to him, but he isn't surprised that Linhardt has found his way here. The place is always bustling and full of people, but at this time of day most of them are beginning to head home for the evening.]

Did Her Majesty direct you to the tea house? She's quite fond of it.

[He sounds faintly amused as he approaches, but his footsteps slow as he catches sight of Linhardt.

It's only been six months, and yet his friend has changed so much. The outfit is new - and it's as breathtaking on him as the one he wore to that party Ferdinand's father hosted so long ago. He looks positively scholarly, like he'd be perfectly at home in a library studying the hours away. His hair has grown out too, Hubert notes. It isn't styled the same way as it used to be, and while his old hairstyle was very cute, this one makes him look positively breathtaking.

Hubert has to remember to breathe.

Of course, Linhardt isn't the only one who has changed over the past six months. Hubert has changed his hairstyle as well - cutting it much shorter instead. He still has his bangs styled over his right eye, but they get in his way less than they used to and occasionally it's even possible to see that there's a perfectly functional eye under there, he just does it for the aesthetic. Speaking of aesthetic, he's traded out the academy uniform for something more military in design, but still taking cues from his mage classes. It isn't a uniform, but there are definitely military inspirations in the jacket's design. The cape is just to make him look more intimidating.]

...It's good to see you again, Linhardt.

[His voice thankfully does not reflect any of his inner thoughts, though the pause does last for far too long.]

[Linhardt could swear that his heart just jumped out of his chest and landed in the garden when he hears the voice he's been hoping to find.

Linhardt winds up turning almost immediately, his eyes catching sight of Hubert and he has to make sure he's not seeing things. The way his hair is cut...the outfit, that cape, all of it--it's actually gorgeous? Is that a word he could use to properly describe Hubert? Linhardt tries to think of other words, coming back to dashing and lovely, and that doesn't exactly help matters in the slightest. Linhardt finds himself staring too, so at the very least, the pause isn't so awkward because even Linhardt is struck by how he looks.

Linhardt has to try to remember to speak (and get the thoughts of Hubert as a tall, dark, mysterious vampire out of his head, because he makes the look surprisingly attractive), but he at least collects his thoughts and bows with some noble bearing and elegance to collect himself.]

So I was going in the proper direction! And here I had been worried that I was getting mindlessly lost in the Capitol...

[He picks himself up shortly after saying that, a smile coming easily onto his face.]

As it is you, my friend. It truly has been far too long since we've seen each other face to face...are you faring well?

[...They can talk about the tea house in a bit, he's gladly taking this excuse to just. Stare at Hubert gladly. He's not sure what is going on with his feelings, but he's actually enjoying it instead of being worried about it.]

You're headed the right way. Through the gardens, and take a right.

[He inclines his head a bit to indicate the general direction, but he makes no move to usher Linhardt along. They're alone here, and the sooner they start moving, the sooner he has to stop staring at Linhardt, which is clearly unacceptable.]

I am, yes. The trip back was as pleasant as any trip could be, and completely uneventful. It was almost too boring.

[It's clearly a joke, because he's pretty sure Linhardt wouldn't appreciate hearing him say he would have preferred a rebel attack or a bandit raid.]

And you? It seems you aren't very familiar with the capital.

What ever would I do without your splendid guidance?

[Linhardt absolutely makes no move to leave, however; that would involve leaving Hubert and no??? Absolutely not??? He doesn't wanna take his eyes off of Hubert, honestly. He's glad that Hubert's trip went so well, at the very least; no issues are good issues, as far as Linhardt is concerned.]

Oh, much the same for myself. I did sneak a nice nap along the way, however...really, I may need to ask Her Majesty if she would mind too terribly if I could utilize this place to nap deeply for a time. It's so wonderfully pleasant...

[Ah, but he is getting sidetracked. He looks a little sheepish when he addresses his lack of familiarity with the capital.]

That obvious? I'm afraid that I don't know my way around here very well. It's a very easy place to get lost in... [Linhardt pauses for a moment, as if considering his actions.] I'm afraid I may have to seek some help in wandering about.

[...there is a slight hint to his tone.]

[Oh don't worry, he caught it.]

Well, if you're in need of a guide, I suppose I could offer my services.

[you guys really think you're so slick, huh]

I'm sure Her Majesty wouldn't mind if you found some nice spots to nap here; your work has been incredibly important to her and I'm sure you could use a break every so often.

[Linhardt's eyes seem to sparkle, just the slightest bit. Apparently this increased his motivation gauge to 100%, good job, Hubie. But oh my god, they do seriously think they're slick.......]

Why, it would be a great honor to be guided by you. It would be simply delightful...

[He'll even offer Hubert a hand to take, to guide him around.]

Her Majesty is quite kindly, then; I should make the most of such an esteemed privilege... [Linhardt smiles, though.] But not a second before we've had the chance to catch up. Do lead the way, won't you?

[It gets a genuine smile out of him for a moment before he tempers it into the usual smirk. He'll take Linhardt's hand, of course.]

Of course. Do try not to get lost again.

[It's teasing, though... Anyway, the tea house isn't all that far away, around the back of a larger building. There's a small pond here, with a pretty little sitting area out back of the tea house.]

I'm sure Her Majesty directed you here because she thought you'd like the scenery - or at least find the area acceptable to nap in.

[it's not because it's romantic of course]

It's nice enough, though I've never been fond of tea.

I won't, I won't...

[He only complains a little bit, sounding more amused than anything as Hubert leads him to the tea house. Quite frankly, it's even more beautiful than he could have imagined; he knew the capital had incredible landscaping, but this was breathtaking...]

...Oh, it's more than acceptable.

[Linhardt seems genuinely in awe of it, really. Of course, once he properly gets his bearings, he gently pulls Hubert and gestures for him to follow.]

Well, we don't need tea to simply have a wonderful time enjoying the scenery, do we? [ah yes, Linhardt Brand Forward Invitations] Join me, won't you?

Edited (no actually this is better) 2019-08-15 06:25 (UTC)

[Maybe someday he'll get used to Linhardt being so forward, but it manages to catch him off-guard again now. He laughs, feeling himself flush a bit at that. It's not really something he can say he minds any.]

Of course I will. You don't need to ask.

[...Partially because Linhardt's tugging on his hand and partially because he wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now. He follows easily, to wherever Linhardt wishes to lead.]

The tea house should still be open, if you want some. I have no complaints with enjoying the scenery without tea, however.

[It's nice to see Linhardt practically light up on seeing the place, but honestly he's more interested in watching Linhardt than looking at the scenery.]

[Linhardt, of course, sees no problems with this. He seems pleased with the reaction, though...Hubert's honestly so precious when he's flushed, he can't help but love it...]

Perhaps in a while; I simply want to enjoy the view of this beautiful place for a time...

[He'll find a nice place to lay down, and gesture for Hubert to sit with him while he stretches out, practically sprawled right out on the ground. He doesn't expect Hubert to lay with him, but Linhardt is nothing if not dedicated to relaxation.]

Ah...this is simply paradise. Wonderful company, a beautiful view...what more could one ask for, truly?

[He'll join Linhardt on the ground, sweeping his cape out of the way so he doesn't sit on it and have to struggle when getting up. He is nothing if not determined to keep his dignity. So no, that means he won't be lying down. He'll lean back on his hands though, once again paying far more attention to Linhardt than to the scenery.]

Plenty of free time to nap, I'd imagine?

[It's light, of course.]

[Linhardt chuckles at that. Hubert's certainly not wrong, at any rate.

He finds himself missing holding onto Hubert's hand, though; when he finally gets comfortable, he lets them spread by his sides, silently hoping Hubert might grasp them again--]

I do suppose that is quite true, yes.

[Linhardt's tone is light when he says that, and his blue eyes look up at Hubert warmly.]

But I don't wish to nap quite yet. Taking in the wonderfully clean air is a blissful reward all it's own...as well as taking in such lovely sights...

[There isn't really any reason for him to take Linhardt's hand, but he finds himself considering it anyway, so who knows, maybe...]

The capital is a lovely place. I'm not surprised you find it so beautiful. I'm pleased I have the opportunity to show you around.

[And you know. To spend more time with Linhardt in general.]

If I didn't know any better, I'd say you wanted to do this all along...

[That's at least a tiny bit teasing, but Linhardt's tone is honestly very pleased with the outcome.]

Not that I mind, of course. I couldn't think of a better way to enjoy my time here.

[That earns a small laugh.]

It's good that you know better.

[That's teasing as well, of course.

He pauses for a moment before deciding that he might as well address the obvious changes.]

I hadn't realized you were growing your hair out. It looks nice.

["nice".............]

[Linhardt laughs a bit at the first remark, but the second...that actually gets him to close his eyes somewhat, in contentment.

...And totally not because that sort of praise is making his cheeks heat the slightest bit, you're imagining that--]

Ah...thank you. I must admit, I'm not used to that sort of praise...I have wanted to grow it out for quite some time now, but I could never find the right way to style it. I still don't think I have...

[Now he wishes he styled it some more, ugh!!]

[Hubert shifts a little, moving so he's looking down at Linhardt. In all honesty, he's tempted to reach out and run a hand through Linhardt's hair, but instead he focuses on Linhardt's words.]

I like it. It looks...

[He trails off there, because he's honestly not sure how to end that. "Attractive" is the first word that comes to mind, which is absolutely not what he wants to say. He hesitates for longer than is really proper or needed before finally coming up with something.]

Professional. You really do look like a scholar now.

[...]

Not that your hairstyle before was bad, however.

[hubert von vestra is fuckin smooth]

[Oh gods, what are these compliments doing to him? Is he getting...flustered? Linhardt's eyes are still closed, but he does feel Hubert shift a bit, the flush on his face darkening.

...Well, it abates a little bit at that very last comment, but that's only because Linhardt chuckles a bit, openly and freely.]

Well, aren't we being entirely honest tonight? [It's teasing, but only lightly.] You can say it looked bad if you want to, though. I can take a bit of criticism.

[There's a pause, as if he's unsure of whether to address the first part of that, and his cheeks darken again.]

...I suppose I should thank you for the compliment, however. Though, now I worry people may expect too much of me from my looks...

[His smile is fond, expression softer than it ever is around anyone else and there's something comforting in the fact that Linhardt's keeping his eyes closed. He can't see just how weak he makes Hubert, and that's precisely how it should be.

Once again, he finds himself close enough to figuring it all out.]

Let them expect what they want. Their opinions don't matter. The only reason to ever worry about what they think is if you can use them to further Her Majesty's goals.

[The words are easy, calm despite the topic. It's so ingrained in his being that he even manages to be threatening in a gentle moment like this.]

I suppose six months was quite some time. I hope you weren't too busy.

[Linhardt doesn't look like he's been pushing himself too hard, at least. Hubert's once again tempted to touch him - but just like so many times before he stops himself. He stops himself from reaching out, and he stops himself from putting that last piece into place and figuring this all out.

He knows once he does that, everything will change, and he's quite fond of how things are now.]

[Linhardt sighs a little aggressively, and sounds almost mock whining when he speaks up again.]

As true as that is, all of that attention is such a hassle outside of such affairs. I've always prided myself in being just plain enough to avoid such overt attentions...

[...That doesn't feel right to say, and he winds up opening his eyes and looking up at Hubert from below.]

...Perhaps I could get used to it, in the future. But for now, I'll simply take the negotiations and teachings to take Father's position; that's what I've been busy with.

[Linhardt winds up staring at Hubert's face with a weird expression--not quite that unreadable expression, but...]

...Hubert, could I ask something of you?

[He winds up rolling over a bit so he can stare up at Hubert from the ground, without cricking his neck from a weird angle.]

[Plain? Linhardt has always been anything but plain. He's about to say as much when Linhardt moves. He doesn't shift from his spot, though he does tip his head a bit to the side.]

Of course. What is it?

Will you hold still, for about a minute or so?

[...]

And perhaps trust me. If you're so inclined.

[...There's a bit of determination in Linhardt's tone.]

I'm sure you know by now that I do.

[Well, as much as he can trust anyone. So he'll do just that! He has no idea what exactly Linhardt wants to do, but... well...

His heart's definitely beating faster and it feels like it'll beat straight out his chest at this rate. Hopefully Linhardt can't tell.]

Then this will go quite smoothly.

[Linhardt isn't quite so nervous, by comparison. He's been curious about something for a while, and it hasn't quite hit him yet that this is highly forward, that this could be mistaken for something deeply intimate, and yet, like an idiot, Linhardt goes for it.

Linhardt's hand goes toward the side of Hubert's face, almost cupping it and seeming to go up slowly while Lin takes a close look--grazing along his face if Hubert let's him, going under his bangs and bringing them up so he can look Hubert in both of his eyes...

...

Huh.]

...How fascinating...

[He speaks as if he's finally figured something out, at any rate.]

I've always been curious about why you've hidden one of your eyes from the view of others, so I had wanted to see what you would look like without it there.

[Beat.]

It's just as charming as you normally look.

[lin says, with no regard for tact whatsoever]

[He doesn't flinch when Linhardt touches him, though it's a struggle not to. Though his expression remains exactly the same as always, internally it feels like he's on fire and nothing will ever quench the flames. He doesn't move, and he doesn't lean into Linhardt's hand, but it is only sheer willpower that keeps him from doing either.

Then Linhardt's hand moves to push his bangs aside and Hubert quickly realizes this isn't going exactly the way he thought it was. There's a moment where he just sort of stares, blinking as he attempts to process how things ended up like this.

And then suddenly he's laughing, and he's not sure when he let himself do that, but nothing has made him laugh this hard in... well, ever, probably. He raises a hand to cover the lower half of his face as he glances away; he's flushed, but he looks genuinely amused in a way that's different. It isn't tempered, it's open for once.

Of course, he's trying to get it under control, but what else would you expect.]

You could have just asked, you know.

[...Is Linhardt pulling back or is he going to remain this close...]

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