sranks | we are the cursed we came from fire and ice

Anytime. You'll have plenty of time to decide how you want to handle this, after all. Our classes will probably be enough to distract you until then, right?

[Dorothea won't press further; it isn't much of her business, but she's certainly not gonna leave him be now. He's a fellow eagle, even if he's a member of (much despised) nobility. Sure, he's possibly just a friend in a high place as it were, but...

Well, Dorothea doesn't like the idea of leaving him alone with his thoughts.]

So, what is a considerate man like you looking forward to studying here? I imagine you've got your heart set on something.

[The smalltalk comes easily, in an attempt to get his mind off of that dreadful subject for now.]

[Oh, that's an excellent topic change, and Xander is all too eager to take it.]

I have many interests that I'm sure I'll be able to throw myself into here: history, politics, and tactics are some of them, though admittedly I am very curious about combat as well. I've heard wonderful things about the training here at the Officers Academy, and while I sincerely hope I would never have to put any combat training to use, I would like to learn more.

[He manages to keep his voice controlled, but his smile is open and genuine.]

What about you? What are you looking forward to learning here?

[Oh no, that smile is precious...Dorothea finds herself smiling a little more at that, listening to him carefully.]

Oh, me? Well, I've got my own pursuits to deal with--I can't exactly let my voice go unpracticed, among other things--so I've only really decided that I want to train my magic a little more...but there really is so much to learn here, isn't there? It's as if a whole new world has opened up to you. I'm sure I'll find plenty of things to do.

[In general, of course. Xandy doesn't need to know about the amount of otome protaging she intends to do here, so she's more than content to focus on him for the moment.]

It sounds like you've got your plate full of plenty of things to keep you occupied! It's good to have a plan all ready and set for yourself, and it sounds like you and that library? Are going to be very good friends. Not that I've been up there much myself, but I do hear that they have a great selection of books there.

You're bound to find everything you need and more to do great here, Xandy.

Yes, I believe I will.

[It sounds confident, but not arrogant. The Officers Academy has been something he's looked forward to for years, so he's certain that everything this place can offer will help him. As the heir to House Krakenburg, it's his responsibility to learn all he can while he's here in preparation for taking his father's place someday.

But more importantly...]

Ah, you're from the Mittelfrank Opera Company, correct? I thought your name and voice sounded familiar...! My apologies for not recognizing you sooner, Dorothea.

[He gives her a brief but polite bow.]

My father has always been interested in the opera, and I've had the pleasure of seeing a few of the shows myself. I'm pleased to see that you're attending the Officers Academy - I'm sure you'll have no trouble learning more here.

[Oh, that's...

Dorothea has to admit, she's a little surprised, but then again, he is right. Duke Garon von Krakenburg was always a recognizable face in the crowd when he took the chance to come by, and she does remember seeing a boy in the crowd with him. That explains a lot.]

Oh, no, no! You don't need to apologize. I'm simply charmed to meet a fan!

[It's a little awkward, really, but Dorothea does everything she can not to show that on her face, hiding a giggle behind her hand.]

Duke Garon has been quite the common face in the crowd over the years, but I think I remember you...

[Dorothea has to think for a moment, remembering the times that Garon was in the crowd, and--oh, that was him!]

Oh! You were that sweet boy who sat by him in the few times you came with him, right? You always used to watch the opera with such rapt attention.

[Another free giggle as it all clicks into place. Dorothea could never forget Garon's face if she tried, really. He's definitely an imposing man, that's for sure, but he did love his opera. And sending gifts, from time to time...even if the women by now knew better than to accept an invitation to House Krakenburg.

Either way, Dorothea winks when she speaks up again.]

It was the most adorable thing.

Oh dear, I hadn't realized I'd left an impression...

[He doesn't sound upset by it or anything, a little awkward perhaps, but that's just kind of how Xander is...]

Your performances were always captivating. Father always speaks very highly of your talent. I was so thrilled the first time he took me to see you perform... Honestly, I doubt many can compare.

[...Oh, that might be a little Much, um.]

My apologies. I'm sure you hear praise like this all the time. I'm excited to get to know you better during our stay here, Dorothea.

[How is he so cute? Dorothea hasn't even done anything and yet here he is, fanboying over her like a starstruck teenager.

It's...a little overwhelming and awkward, really, but Dorothea has more than once put on her best face for potential suitors. There's something about him that's just so weirdly genuine, though; he's every bit the opposite of Duke Garon, really.

Perhaps he'll truly be able to bring his family name out of those rumors, when the time comes.]

You really do flatter me, Xandy. It never gets tiring to hear those praises. You're certainly rather adept with them.

[It means she's still relevant, and that's what matters. Dorothea will be sure to remember those words.]

Just try not to get too starstruck, okay? We're all just students at the academy, now. [Despite the words, Dorothea doesn't seem the most put off.] But I'm looking forward to getting to know you, too. Anytime you need to talk, you can always come find me, you know.

Ah, of course. I certainly didn't intend to come off as overwhelming...

[But she's just so cool??? Gosh.]

Thank you, Dorothea. I... feel a bit more at ease now that I've spoken about the situation a bit. It was very kind of you to ask, and to listen.

[It's not very often someone actually expresses concern for him?? It's weird. Nice, but weird.]

You didn't, you didn't. It just never hurts to have a reminder every now and again.

[He's adorable...what is she gonna do with this boy...]

Don't mention it. I just couldn't stand to see you brood like that. After all, what are friends for, if not lifting their own out of dark places?

[Friends... Oh no, cute...]

I appreciate it. It's... very nice to have a friend like you.

[Friends????????? And of course he says this entirely in earnest...]

[Congratulations Xander, you have obtained one (1) friend.

...Honestly, Dorothea was being a bit bold with the statement but. Oh no?? Oh no. Honestly, you know what, screw it. He's being earnest as hell about this and it lights a fire in Dorothea.

She is gonna befriend the hell out of this boy.]

Same to you, Xandy. You're such a sweet, genuine man...I'm happy to call us friends.

we are the cursed we came from fire and ice

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