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darkseal
[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...]
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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I have no doubts that you can convince them that this is what you want. I don't wish to worry them with your well-being, that is all.
[He doesn't expect to be accepted with open arms; it's enough for him to be allowed to court Linhardt without House Hevring's interference. Not that it would matter much, of course. He could always accept Linhardt into House Vestra, considering that it only really consists of himself at the moment. Still, it would be best not to make trouble with such an influential part of the Empire.]
I appreciate it, truly. It isn't something we need to worry about right away, but knowing you will be there to assist helps ease my worries.
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[Linhardt's smile is a little lighter, though he doesn't go into another reason on his mind--he can do that when the time comes--and he lets himself ease into Hubert a little more, careful not to do anything that would agitate his injuries, of course.
Thinking about it...his mother will likely be easy to convince; she's seen all of those sappy letters that he's written to Hubert, after all, and the ones that Hubert has sent in kind. Even if she did keep her ears toward the other noblewomen, she's always been the more optimistic among herself and his father...he'd probably be the one that would need the most talking to, he surmises.
Linhardt's already setting a plan of attack in his mind, but he doesn't want to focus on that for now. Linhardt's own hand attempts to go to cup Hubert's cheek, brushing his thumb across it.]
But no, you are right--it is a bridge we can cross once we get to it. [There's a thumping in his heart, and he decides he has nothing to lose--they love each other, after all, and he quickly attempts to press a kiss to...well, the nearest place he can, which is likely attempting to be Hubert's other cheek and winds up being Hubert's jaw, but you know. Close enough.] And I will support you with all I can. I swear to you that I will.
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I wouldn't want to completely ruin my reputation, you know.
[It's teasing though; he doesn't care one way or another about his reputation. As long as he gets results for Her Majesty, that's what matters. It does help that he's seen as intimidating, but it's not as though he'd mind if Linhardt's parents were to see him differently.
The touch against his cheek gets him to turn to look at Linhardt, and the kiss pressed to his jaw causes his heart to stop. It isn't as though there's a problem - not really - but even something so small is still intensely intimate, and it sends a spike of fear through him. There are numerous reasons for it - he could hurt Linhardt again, he isn't sure he knows how to handle it, he doesn't think he can return Linhardt's affection in any meaningful way - and it takes him a moment to close his eyes and will it away.
He's afraid because he doesn't open himself up. He's afraid because he's spent so long carefully crafting these walls. He doesn't know what will happen when he lowers them, but there isn't anyone else he would want to let in like this.
It helps, and he relaxes. The hand in Linhardt's hair moves to the back of his head to gently encourage Linhardt to angle his head upwards.]
May I...?
[The question trails off, as though suddenly he's not sure he wants to ask it. Hubert's eyes dart to the side before he forces himself to look back at Linhardt and ask the damn question.]
May I kiss you?
[It's something he needs to ask after what happened last time. He understands if Linhardt can't agree to that - he certainly wouldn't blame him - but this is what he wants to do.]
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Linhardt is a little worried when he sees Hubert's eyes close, perhaps a little uncertain if he should have done that--what if he drove Hubert away again, after all? He's not sure if he could handle that--but Hubert's hand encourages him angle himself upward, likely for easier access, and he feels his heart beat out of his chest. He doesn't even hesitate with his answer. It may be a touch impulsive on his part, but he could have very easily never gotten this chance again if Hubert died.]
Yes. Yes, you certainly may.
[...No, that's not enough, and Linhardt's voice drops to a whisper when he speaks again.]
...Please do, in fact.
[Linhardt's wanted to try this again for so long, even if the fear of rejection--of getting left behind again, or worse, Hubert not wanting to speak with him again is very strong, but he wants this. He wants to make a good memory out of kissing Hubert this time.]
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So he leans in when Linhardt encourages him, and he kisses his friend - his boyfriend - like he's wanted to do countless times since his horrible mistake four years ago.
One hand remains at the back of Linhardt's head and the other holds Linhardt tightly to his side, like he can't bear to let go. He's still not experienced with this, but what he lacks in experience he makes up for in enthusiasm and... desperation, if we're honest. He came really damn close to dying, and he doesn't have the time or patience to be shy about his affections any longer.]
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thirstydesperate for that much, for Hubert's lips to meet his, to kiss his boyfriend with everything he's got because they can kiss each other again--Linhardt returns the kiss enthusiastically, his own patience going right out the window as one of Linhardt's hands threads itself into Hubert's hair, letting out a contented noise into the kiss--gods this feels like heaven, even if there's that slight bit of fear in his heart that this could go badly again, he's far too desperate to care about that. He's wanted this for so long. He's going to make the most of it.
He'll even grant that invitation to deepen the kiss again, should Hubert want it, but this...this is wonderful. Linhardt couldn't be happier, or more deeply enthusiastic.]
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Unfortunately, breathing is a necessity, and he pulls back after a moment to catch his breath. He should probably have something to say - maybe an apology for last time, or a reassurance that he won't leave this time (even if he could move), but instead he decides that words are entirely too difficult right now and he doesn't want to bother with them. Instead he tips his head a bit, pressing slow, light kisses along Linhardt's jaw. He goes back to playing with Linhardt's hair again too, and the entire thing is almost lazy in how relaxed it is. There's no rush now, he's safe and Linhardt's here, and he's certainly going to monopolize his boyfriend's attention for as long as he can.]
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I love you...I love you so much, Hubert...
[Linhardt tone comes out very airy and light, and he winds up attempting to return those kisses in kind from his position, though he doesn't move his head to aim them anywhere in particular; it results in him essentially peppering what parts of Hubert's face he can reach with feather light, quick kisses, and he feels light laughter escape him while he does.
This is what he's wanted all along, isn't it? To kiss Hubert so freely, with so much love...with passion that would have only been reserved for his crest research, if he hadn't joined with the Empire.]
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I suspect we're already managing to break every rule of courting. I'd assume kissing is off limits for quite some time and "I love you"s should be saved for... later.
[Marriage, but that sends a shiver up his spine and he's not sure if it's fear, excitement, or something else entirely. That's certainly not something he should be thinking about right now.]
Not that I mind, of course. I love you too, Linhardt.
[The words feel so right, even though they open him up like nothing else ever has. He's safe with Linhardt - he's known that for a long time now.]
I never would have imagined I'd be lucky enough to wind up with you. I wouldn't ever want anyone else to ever see you like this. You're adorable.
[It's absolutely teasing, but he means every word of it.]
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As if a few courting rules could stop us...I'd like to think that after all we've faced, we should get a pass for cheating a few of those steps.
[Hubert's being so open with him and Linhardt loves it so much. Even the teasing, that makes him flush ever so slightly, is something he adores--he's always been used to being the one to tease Hubert, even if it was mostly experimental, but this...]
You're going to make me blush if you keep calling me that...
[This comes from a place of love, and Linhardt can't help but fire back. He wants to, because he wants Hubert to know how much he loves him]
I wouldn't either, however...that I would ever end up with someone as compassionate and handsome as you pleases me ever so much...
[...That's trying to be teasing but comes off far more genuine.]
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[Another laugh, though something occurs to him then.]
...Although perhaps this has something to do with your wish at the Goddess Tower. It pains me to say it, but perhaps you were right. Maybe it wasn't sheer willpower alone that got us to where we are now.
[He doesn't believe in fate, or an outside hand that could guide them, but this... in a way, it almost feels like someone or something helped them find the right path to walk together.]
I suppose I can't be that upset about being wrong if it means I'm here with you.
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Linhardt listens to Hubert as he speaks, though, and the more he thinks about it...the more he realizes that Hubert truly may have a point. Even if it pains him to say that much, Linhardt feels his eyes light up a bit.]
So we did have something that Sylvain and that other girl was missing, all along!
[LINHARDT, OH MY GOD, IS NOW REALLY THE TIME TO DRAG THE FUCKBOY]
I won't dare say that we were destined to be together, but...even so, I do dare say we were meant for something. It was simply something we had to see through to completion. Perhaps we were blessed...
[Linhardt chuckles.]
I know I certainly feel that way, being with you...you're so wonderfully intoxicating, my love. I wouldn't dare wish to be anywhere else...
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I wouldn't have imagined it at the time, but yes. It certainly wasn't easy, but here we are.
[He moves to press a few more kisses down Linhardt's jaw, moving to his neck so Linhardt can't see just how flushed he is.]
You're welcome to stay with me as often as you can. I'll be bored here on my own, you know. I suspect Her Majesty won't allow me to work at all until I'm fully recovered.
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Here we are indeed...and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else...
[He lets out a noise of content at those kisses to his jaw, exhaling easily and letting his fingers run down Hubert's hair, trailing into his scalp.]
I'm more than content to take you up on that. Someone ought to keep you amused while you're in this dreary place, and ensure that you're healing properly...and I would be happy to do that for you.
[...]
That, and I do suspect this room will be the most comfortable place to nap...but that's only because you're here.
[lin]
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[It gets another laugh out of him though, and he stills a bit just to feel Linhardt's hand in his hair.]
I can never thank you enough for all you've done for me. At the very least I can allow you to nap in here away from everyone else. It won't be particularly hard for them to find you, however.
[He's pretty damn sure everyone's aware of what happened by now... Even if Marianne didn't say anything, Her Majesty was right there, as were Annette and Mercedes, and possibly some others he didn't notice.]
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It took Hubert a few weeks to properly heal up, but by the time a month had passed, he was finally well enough to be on the front lines. Linhardt wanted to be absolutely certain that his boyfriend was well before he went back into the fray. They always made time for each other even during the war, but now they had all the more reason to do so now that it's all but over. Taking Hubert on dates, and letting Hubert take him out...really, any date with Hubert proved to be fun, from the simple dates that Linhardt usually provided (though he made up for the simplicity with loving affection), and the more traditional dates that Hubert took him on, that Linhardt loved so much--they were all lovely. Really, Linhardt was happy as could be.
Of course, in that time, they did visit his parents; it may have taken some talking after their initial apprehension (mostly his father's, as he predicted, due to Hubert's...reputation, to say the least), but his parents did wind up approving of them being together--his mother even called them adorable, seeming all too enthusiastic about her son finding someone to love, and perhaps seeming a little too excited about their future--something that wound up embarrassing Linhardt a little bit. But even his father came around in a more genuine fashion, despite his distant demeanor, and he did seem to have hope for them both.
(If Hubert asked later, about his mother, and if she was just...like this, Linhardt would have confirmed that it was indeed the case. She was just. Like This.)
He was able to show Hubert so many things during that visit, though; that field he'd talked about, speckled with beautiful wildflowers that seemed to go on without an end...his own bedroom, if mostly to show his rather...expansive collection of animals, and all of their outfits. (And all of their names.) Really, Linhardt was so excited, and that's just been their relationship.
It's been exciting to be with Hubert, and Linhardt has fallen for the man even more, now. He wants to spend the rest of his life with him--he wants that more than anything in the world.
Linhardt had to separate from Hubert for a week or so to deal with some matters at home, or so he had said; it was mostly to ask for his parent's blessing, however. And he received it almost enthusiastically, his father granting approval and his mother practically bouncing off the walls with excitement. His father gave him a ring bearing the crest of House Hevring; his mother, a letter to give to Hubert when the time came to propose...
And well, with Her Majesty calling upon everyone to come to Garreg Mach for a celebratory ball, now seemed like the perfect time. He brought them both with him when he came back, but it turned out that there was something he'd forgotten; they were holding the White Heron cup at the same time...and someone had entered his name among the entrants.
Shoot. He'd avoided it last time because Professor Byleth had gone for a rather obvious option to win the cup, but Dorothea seemed to be the one who had encouraged many entrants in this time. He didn't even see Hubert yet, but surely he was here--Linhardt would just have to find him after he got changed.
And that's where Linhardt is now, the dancer's garb on him as he looks left and right before the cup begins to try and find Hubert. Linhardt is hoping to escape--maybe if he finds the man quickly, they can both escape off to the Goddess Tower and leave all of them none the wiser.
...Linhardt would certainly like that, if because it's very hard to hide and ring and a letter in these clothes, dear gods--]
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Of course, he wouldn't even be considering anything more without Her Majesty's blessing. He'd spoken with her not long after asking if Linhardt would date him, and she had been all too pleased to give them her blessing. (He's fairly sure he heard her mutter "Finally," but perhaps that was just his imagination.) Without any (important) family left to consult with on the matter, Hubert was all too happy to enjoy his time with Linhardt.
It hasn't always been easy - there are still plenty of things to attend to and his job remains ever the same; he is Her Majesty's right hand and he would do anything for her. With the war over, it's easier to find time to spend with Linhardt, and they've been on quite a few dates while they attempt to court properly. Okay, so they aren't really doing a good job of following the official guidelines, but it's not like they really care.
The important thing is that he loves Linhardt, and he never wants to be apart from him again.
So naturally, when Linhardt had to return for pressing family matters (he wasn't able to ascertain exactly what those were, but he's kept his prying to a minimum because he trusts Linhardt, and he wants to show his boyfriend that he does) he's found himself being more worked up than usual. Her Majesty certainly took notice, and sent him out to deal with some minor bandit attacks, probably because he was driving her crazy too.
During that time he did ask her opinion on something else, though. He plans to propose to Linhardt, and wanted to make sure she was fine with it. Of course she'd agreed, and vowed to keep it a secret until Hubert could find the time and place to propose.
The time and place is obvious - the Goddess Tower, and Her Majesty was kind enough to throw a ball there to ensure that there isn't any suspicion from anyone else. It's not that it matters what they think, but it'll keep them occupied while he finds the courage to propose to Linhardt.
(He's got the words written down, and after at least twelve edits, he's satisfied with how he'll do it. It's only a matter of remembering when the time comes.)
Unfortunately, he'd forgotten about the White Heron Cup. It's likely that Dorothea put Her Majesty up to including that, though he can't rule out Byleth. Regardless, almost everyone's names ended up in the running, and the only thing left to do now is to get dressed and head out there to dance. Hubert would greatly prefer not to, but Her Majesty had been unwilling to let him sit this one out, saying that it was all in good fun. She'd even let her hair down and dressed in her own dancer costume, so he supposed there really wasn't a choice.
The dancer attire he wears is thankfully in blacks and reds, with a hint of purple to the hem. It's still not anything he'd normally wear, but he can put up with it for one night. He'll change the moment he has the option. But for now...
Well, his feet carry him to the most important person in the room, even though he's not entirely sure he's ready to face Linhardt just yet.]
It seems the person responsible for putting us all up to this didn't forget anyone.
[He's noticed Linhardt fumbling with something, and quirks an eyebrow, but he's not trying to get a closer look. For now, he's more fascinated with Linhardt's dancer outfit. It's... really attractive...]
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...Oh, wow. Hubert's dancer outfit definitely flatters him, Linhardt notes--the black and red really suits him all too well. Linhardt's own outfit is in various shades of green and dark yellow, and while it suits him, he can't deny that Hubert pulls off the outfit that much better. He's gorgeous.]
...They certainly did not. [Linhardt finally finds a suitable way to place his things while he tries not to stare at Hubert too much, and fails, completely.] I must admit, I'm impressed with their dedication to this. I wonder why they elected to include so many this time...
[Not that he's complaining, if it lets him see Hubert like this.]
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I have to wonder if they're teasing us... I doubt many of us would wear such silly outfits normally.
[It isn't all bad, though. There are certainly worse class outfits. This one thankfully doesn't bare his chest or risk showing the massive scar that runs down it from that battle. While he isn't the sort to be easily embarrassed, he's been intentionally trying to keep that hidden. It's an ugly scar, and certainly not one he wants Linhardt to see.]
I must admit, I can't say I'm all that opposed.
[He smirks.]
After all, the outfit suits you well.
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[Linhardt would much rather go back to his priest outfit any day of the week. He's far from confident in his body, though it isn't because of scars; Linhardt has always been a rather lanky individual, almost gangling in appearance and thin in ways that made him look weird. Or so he thinks, anyway.
Hubert looks much better in the outfit, despite his scars. Really, Linhardt would like to do nothing more than to stare all day, but--
Oh.]
Ah-- [Oh, there goes his composure. Linhardt has to look away at that, shaking his head.] No, no. It suits you much better. I don't think I've ever seen a more attractive outfit on you...it's incredibly flattering.
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[The words come easy, the confidence easier, but it does nothing to hide the beginnings of a blush. He'd like to think he's gotten better at reacting to Linhardt's compliments and teasing by now, but it still isn't easy.]
Anyway, I don't really have the build for a dancer. Yours is far more suited to it - I'm sure you'll look elegant in motion.
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[Linhardt chuckles, trying not to focus so much on the compliments--all Linhardt can really see are the flaws, how the outfit emphasizes all of his imperfections, how long his arms are, how he's got skinny chicken legs, how he's not nearly as well built as Hubert is, but--]
Come now, you're perfect for such a thing. You shouldn't sell yourself so short, my love. [It's gotten so much easier to say that now that they've been together for so long, he loves it, even if he is using it to deflect the compliments aimed at him.] I'm simply going to have to ensure that I don't trip over myself, but you...you'll be perfect no matter what. That's what I think. [Beat.] I do thank you for the compliments, however; you're very kind...
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Nonsense. You always carry yourself with more grace than you give yourself credit for. I can't imagine you would have any trouble with this outfit over your others.
[...But that does get a sly smirk out of him.]
If you're so worried about tripping over yourself, perhaps you'll allow me to guide you?
[...Okay, so threading a hand through Linhardt's hair would be a bit much, but clearly dancing with him would not. Shut up.]
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No fair, hitting him with a one-two punch of embarrassment!!]
Ha...I may need your guidance, you know. Your expertise is unmatched, after all...
[He says that, but he has to hide his face with one of his hands because he's getting embarrassed.]
...But truly, I would want that. Dancing with you is such a delight, after all... [Beat.] So long as Ferdinand isn't anywhere nearby.
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It looks as though he's occupied by Dorothea. Judging from how animated she is, I assume we have quite some time before she'll let him loose.
[He reaches out for Linhardt's hand, to gently guide it away from his face.]
The blush looks good on you too, my love.
[If he's doing this great now then proposing's totally going to be a breeze. Why was he worried??]
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