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

[Oh, that... He certainly hadn't expected the blush or the laugh, and he's not exactly sure what his feelings are doing, but it's sort of a nice feeling. It's sort of like adrenaline, in that it's a rush and exhilarating and he doesn't want it to end.]

In a way, yes. But I think it's unfair to say that's all it is. We're here for our futures as well, and I think... I think it's easier to hope for a bright future after seeing everyone here tonight.

[And maybe seeing her smile so easily is part of that, as much as it frightens and excites him to think about it.]

I'm looking forward to the rest of our time here. I'm so pleased I've had the opportunity to meet so many people.

[He doesn't look away, though; he doesn't need to.]

I'm very pleased we've had the opportunity to get to know one another as well.

[Futures...

Dorothea's expression dampens some at that. That's right, she does need to think about her future, doesn't she? She won't be young and beautiful forever. Eventually she'll be old and gray, and by then nobody will want her, so she has to find someone quickly--]

Yeah. Yeah, I think I can agree with that. There's still so much of the school year ahead of us, but I think we've got a shot at a bright future.

[Her words are a little uncertain, but her smile isn't. She's gotten good at smiling even when uncertain, and she can't help but agree with all of that.]

And I'm...pleased that we've gotten that chance, too. I'm glad that we've gotten close, Xandy.

[Even if her heart is...definitely being weird dear gods Dorothea don't even think about it. Dorothea starts to stand a bit, though...]

I think I'm probably going to start heading back to my room. I think the chaos is getting to me a bit, too. [...] Did you wanna stay? Or do you wanna walk back with me?

[Her smile is the same, but her words... Hmm. He's not really sure what to make of it. He watches as she stands and for a brief moment his heart sinks, thinking that he's managed to upset her with something he's said. But she offers for him to accompany her and he's nodding and on his feet before he's even really aware of it.]

I'll walk you back. I could use the fresh air, I think.

[And maybe a little more space from everyone, for just a little longer. He gestures for her to lead the way.]

Such a gentleman.

[Dorothea says that happily, and she winds up just. Taking one of his hands, if he lets her, and leading him out the door without even taking stock of any others. They're probably occupied anyway, so as far as Dorothea's concerned, it's fine!

...Hopefully!

The night air is very nice, and Dorothea is more than happy to start leading the way.]

This is much better, right, Xandy?

[O-Oh, that's... kind of nice... He'll allow it, and let her lead him outside. It's fine, surely no one saw or cared about them leaving hand-in-hand??]

It is. I certainly do enjoy spending time with them, but it is rather loud in there...

[It's late now, and the night sky and cool air is a welcome relief.]

[Surely not a soul!! Not a single one!]

I get it. I'm used to all of the loud noise, but...a little peace and quiet can do wonders, when all is said and done.

[Dorothea will gladly lead him towards the dormitories, and toward her room, though. It's nice to be able to walk like this, though the longer she holds Xander's hand, the more it kind of...hits her, that she's. Well. Holding his hand. It's certainly nice, but--

They hit the door of Dorothea's room eventually, and Dorothea...isn't sure she can bring herself to let go, honestly.]

Well, here we are! You're so thoughtful, to bring me back here...I don't know if I can thank you enough.

[It's nice. The peace and quiet, the canopy of stars overhead, the feeling of her hand in his...

Oh. He's not entirely sure when he started gripping her hand in return, but he doesn't want to let go. It is nice.

They're at her door quicker than he would like, but he supposes that's natural. He smiles, easily, though he doesn't move to let go just yet.]

You don't need to thank me for it. I'm happy I could accompany you.

[Not like he needed to; her room isn't all that far away. But still... it's nice.]

[Dorothea chuckles easily at that, not letting go either even though they've both gone past the point of needing to, but her smooth hands holding onto his, and him holding onto her is...nice. It's very nice.]

Well, I'm going to anyway. I can't just not thank someone as cute as you for being such a gentleman, after all. [Wink!] I'm happy you could bring me back, too. It was a nice little walk.

[...]

Especially without any prying eyes around. We wouldn't want any of those.

Very well, you have me beat. You're welcome, then.

[That last part gets him to glance back over his shoulder in the direction of the dining hall, like he's worried they've been followed. They haven't, and there doesn't seem to be anyone around either.]

No, of course not.

[Right? They'd probably get the wrong idea...

Oh. He's still holding her hand... Right, he should probably just... let go...]

Well, ah... Thank you. For seeking me out tonight. I... It was a pleasure talking with you, Dorothea.

[It's awkward, like he really has no damn idea what to do with himself. He doesn't turn to leave just yet, however.]

[...Oh no, she actually scared him, didn't she? Shoot. Dorothea will just...let go...which is much easier said than done and getting her cheeks to go pink again but...]

It's no trouble at all. I wanted to chat with you anyway. And it was really nice to talk with you, Xandy.

[...This is awkward and she doesn't usually lose her words like this, what the fuck.]

Get some good rest, okay? It's back to normal classes tomorrow, so...we both need to be at our best, I'm sure.

[Dorothea doesn't make to go back to her room, and honestly, we're just. Both kinda dying here, aren't we.]

[We sure are.]

Ah, of course. I wouldn't dream of letting you— the Black Eagles down.

[Well that sure was a slip-up wasn't it oh god oh man, move on, quickly—]

Thank you again, and if there's anything I can do to assist you in the future, please let me know.

[The words are rushed, and probably more of a default reaction than anything else, given that he ducks into a bow immediately afterwards. And then he turns on his heel to leave, because ohhhhh man that was embarrassing.]

[Ah, of course. I wouldn't dream of letting you— the Black Eagles down.

Oh.

Oh that's a slip-up and a half, oh gods--]

Ah--right, right, of course! I will!

[Dorothea's own words are rushed, and she just kind of blurts after him--]

Have a good night!

[Aaaaand Dorothea goes into her room as fast as she can and slams the door shut, promptly inserting her face into both of her hands and lowkey screaming from embarrassment.]

we are the cursed we came from fire and ice

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