Lorenz Hellman Gloucester (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
nobiliteased) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
sranks2019-11-10 10:54 pm
nobiliteased) wrote in sranks2019-11-10 10:54 pm
and if there's love in this life, there's no obstacle
[Everyone knows the story about soulmates. They say that when two people who are destined to be together meet, they exchange words that are marked on one another. Those words when spoken by your soulmate will cause the marks to tingle and you'll know. The stories have never explained how one would know, but it's the sort of fairy tale that everyone in Fódlan buys into. In fact, it's practically a requirement to spend a great deal of time talking about your soulmate and daydreaming about what they look like, act like, sound like.
Even Lorenz wasn't immune to that, though he was very young when his father started insisting he cover up the words on the inside of his left arm. He was still an idealistic child when he was told to stop dreaming about a soulmate. A noble's duty is to their house and their lands; one cannot get caught up in wild daydreams when securing an heir is far more important. What if his soulmate were to be a man, or perhaps worse, a commoner?
So Lorenz stopped dreaming. He stopped thinking about what color his soulmate's eyes would be, or what their laugh would sound like, or even the words marked on his arm.
Noble blood alone cannot help one on the field of battle.
In truth, it was a bit hard to ignore just how strange the words were. Such a thing would be unthinkable to come from the lips of a noble at all, which is perhaps why his father was so insistent that he forget all about his soulmate. Fódlan is a very large place; the odds of Lorenz actually hearing those words from his soulmate are incredibly low.
And yet.
It happened out of the blue, after the Battle of the Eagle and Lion. It was a mock battle, but one that pit the three houses against one another; one that his father had been so proud of winning and one Lorenz had done his best to succeed in. Unfortunately, the Golden Deer house wasn't the victor this time. It was not an entirely crushing defeat, but the Black Eagles house had several students still standing at the end, which was a bit embarrassing as far as Lorenz was concerned. It felt like they hadn't done enough.
But everyone had gathered together for a grand feast anyway, hosted by the house leaders. Claude didn't even cause any trouble, surprisingly, though he did insist on trying to chat with everyone and had even dragged the Imperial princess Edelgard over for a bit. Their conversation had been amicable, but ultimately nothing particularly noteworthy.
At least until those damning words left her mouth.
"Noble blood alone cannot help one on the field of battle."
He'd said something about nobility and how it tied into his desire to succeed, or something along those lines, and she'd responded immediately, with a tight expression that he couldn't quite place. He would have dismissed the conversation entirely had he not felt the sudden tingle running up his arm, as though those words were being carved into his skin anew. It wasn't painful, but his arm did twitch a bit and Claude looked at him strangely, and he had tried to hide the fact that he knew.
As it turns out, it isn't really something that can be described. You just know when you've found your soulmate. It's almost like stating a fact you've known all along; the sky is blue, water is wet, a noble's duty is to guide the commoners.
Lorenz had retired early, mostly to give himself time to think. Edelgard is his soulmate, and it seemed likely that she would recognize this as well. So where do they go from here? If he were to write his father about this, he has no doubts that his father would insist he pursue this. Marrying a commoner is out of the question, but marrying the Imperial princess? That would propel House Gloucester to heights unimaginable. Merging House Gloucester with the Empire and House Hresvelg certainly might have some downsides, but who could be more noble than a princess?
Logistically speaking, House Gloucester can only benefit. And yet he hesitated, and hadn't started writing a letter to his father about it.
He still hasn't, even though it's been a week.
In truth, Lorenz isn't entirely sure what he's been waiting for. Perhaps he's expecting Edelgard to make the first move, to seek him out and confront the inherent awkwardness that finding a new soulmate seems to bring. Does everyone find it this awkward? He can only imagine they do, especially given how little he actually knows of Edelgard as a person. But shying away from it is unbecoming of a noble, so Lorenz has decided enough is enough.
He catches Edelgard outside of the Black Eagles classroom after their lessons are over, offering her a smile.]
Edelgard, a moment, if you would?
[...And because he knows a certain shadow is always at the princess' elbow:] Alone, perhaps?
Even Lorenz wasn't immune to that, though he was very young when his father started insisting he cover up the words on the inside of his left arm. He was still an idealistic child when he was told to stop dreaming about a soulmate. A noble's duty is to their house and their lands; one cannot get caught up in wild daydreams when securing an heir is far more important. What if his soulmate were to be a man, or perhaps worse, a commoner?
So Lorenz stopped dreaming. He stopped thinking about what color his soulmate's eyes would be, or what their laugh would sound like, or even the words marked on his arm.
Noble blood alone cannot help one on the field of battle.
In truth, it was a bit hard to ignore just how strange the words were. Such a thing would be unthinkable to come from the lips of a noble at all, which is perhaps why his father was so insistent that he forget all about his soulmate. Fódlan is a very large place; the odds of Lorenz actually hearing those words from his soulmate are incredibly low.
And yet.
It happened out of the blue, after the Battle of the Eagle and Lion. It was a mock battle, but one that pit the three houses against one another; one that his father had been so proud of winning and one Lorenz had done his best to succeed in. Unfortunately, the Golden Deer house wasn't the victor this time. It was not an entirely crushing defeat, but the Black Eagles house had several students still standing at the end, which was a bit embarrassing as far as Lorenz was concerned. It felt like they hadn't done enough.
But everyone had gathered together for a grand feast anyway, hosted by the house leaders. Claude didn't even cause any trouble, surprisingly, though he did insist on trying to chat with everyone and had even dragged the Imperial princess Edelgard over for a bit. Their conversation had been amicable, but ultimately nothing particularly noteworthy.
At least until those damning words left her mouth.
"Noble blood alone cannot help one on the field of battle."
He'd said something about nobility and how it tied into his desire to succeed, or something along those lines, and she'd responded immediately, with a tight expression that he couldn't quite place. He would have dismissed the conversation entirely had he not felt the sudden tingle running up his arm, as though those words were being carved into his skin anew. It wasn't painful, but his arm did twitch a bit and Claude looked at him strangely, and he had tried to hide the fact that he knew.
As it turns out, it isn't really something that can be described. You just know when you've found your soulmate. It's almost like stating a fact you've known all along; the sky is blue, water is wet, a noble's duty is to guide the commoners.
Lorenz had retired early, mostly to give himself time to think. Edelgard is his soulmate, and it seemed likely that she would recognize this as well. So where do they go from here? If he were to write his father about this, he has no doubts that his father would insist he pursue this. Marrying a commoner is out of the question, but marrying the Imperial princess? That would propel House Gloucester to heights unimaginable. Merging House Gloucester with the Empire and House Hresvelg certainly might have some downsides, but who could be more noble than a princess?
Logistically speaking, House Gloucester can only benefit. And yet he hesitated, and hadn't started writing a letter to his father about it.
He still hasn't, even though it's been a week.
In truth, Lorenz isn't entirely sure what he's been waiting for. Perhaps he's expecting Edelgard to make the first move, to seek him out and confront the inherent awkwardness that finding a new soulmate seems to bring. Does everyone find it this awkward? He can only imagine they do, especially given how little he actually knows of Edelgard as a person. But shying away from it is unbecoming of a noble, so Lorenz has decided enough is enough.
He catches Edelgard outside of the Black Eagles classroom after their lessons are over, offering her a smile.]
Edelgard, a moment, if you would?
[...And because he knows a certain shadow is always at the princess' elbow:] Alone, perhaps?
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Edelgard hasn't looked upon those words on her wrist in years, because she can't afford the distraction. If she recalled such words at a horrible time, everything could come crashing down all at once. She can't afford to let anything distract her. More than anything, she can't afford to fall in love a second before this world is uprooted, pruned of the old ideals, and allowed to grow freely without constraints.
Maybe after that, she can focus on finding her soulmate. It would certainly be a nice thought, especially once the old nobility is thrown asunder.
Even so, Edelgard has to admit that the school year has been quite interesting; the Battle of the Eagle and Lion perhaps most so, since the Black Eagles were able to triumph over all of the other classes. She had certainly held back and ordered Hubert to do so as well, so that the Church would not be aware of their true might...but this much certainly proves that they will be ready for anything, and that the Black Eagles as a whole have become incredibly strong. And really, Edelgard did have plenty of fun there as well.
The feast was certainly interesting enough, and it allowed Edelgard to chat with some of the others. It was nice; it made her feel like a student among equals, for once. Even if she wound up scolding one particular noble about his over-reliance on his nobility; blood alone didn't help one on the field of battle. It was about one's skill, and their own training, rather than something determined by birth alone. She supposes she should have expected no less, however; he was a typical noble, from what she had gleaned of him. Nothing less, and nothing more, she was certain.
The conversation is out of her mind by the night's end, and life continues to go on. Edelgard plays her part as a student of the academy while she and Hubert put the steps of their plan into motion slow but sure, and life has gone on. There's much to so even today, and Edelgard more than intends to go off and get some studying done...
Well, until a voice calls out to her and she turns to see Lorenz walking over with a smile. She's not truly sure what he could want, but he's asking her to come with him alone...he must know that Hubert is ever her shadow. On one hand, she's not entirely certain what he could want, and she does have plenty she needs to do as well. On the other...well, maybe it wouldn't be bad to hear him out. He's certainly too weak to actually be of any sort of threat, at any rate, though she intends to keep her eyes out none the less.]
Very well, Lorenz. I can spare a moment; lead the way.
[That's more of a signal to Hubert, than anything; she's got this. She'll wait until they're where Lorenz wants to take her, though her look goes a touch curious.]
What is it that you wish to speak to me about?
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Anyway, he guides her in the direction of the gardens; they're open space, where other students can see them, and he'd be lying if he said he hadn't considered that. Given just how overprotective Hubert is, he can only imagine that Edelgard has some trust issues as well. He means her no harm, after all, so the gardens are a good place.
Besides, the flowers are simply lovely.]
I was wondering if you noticed anything... strange last week, during the gathering after the Battle of the Eagle and Lion.
[He slows his steps as they near the gazebo, glancing down at her to study her reaction.]
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Either way, the gardens are certainly nice; the flowers that bloom here are lovely, and maintained well. It allows each and every flower to be as vivid and lovely as one would hope...but Edelgard likes it for another reason; it's public, and if Lorenz did attempt something, the rest of the student body would see him do it. It at least lets her ease the slightest bit, though her posture and demeanor are the same as ever.
Of course, that question...Edelgard considers it, her hand coming up in front of her as she contemplates just what he could be talking about. What could he be getting at? Certainly he can't be speaking of anything to do with their plans, but Edelgard doesn't put the possibility out of her mind when she responds.]
I cannot say that I have noticed anything out of the ordinary, no. Everything seemed to be quite normal.
[Edelgard's eyes are as piercing as ever as she looks at him, analyzing him, wondering just what would bring him to ask that...]
You must have noticed something I did not, then. What did you find?
[Her tone's not quite demanding, though it's...hard to not sound like that when she's so used to being in command...but she is curious. He obviously asked for a reason.]
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No, that can't be right. Perhaps she doesn't want to say? They are in public, after all... Though surely she'd give some indicating of understanding if she knew what this was about. Edelgard truly doesn't look like she gets what he's talking about at all. She doesn't look confused, but given her tone and the almost authoritative way she asks that of him...
It isn't that she's daring him to speak first, she's far too serious for something like that. But if she doesn't know...
But how can she not know? He experienced it, he heard those words and he felt it and now he knows, so how could she not have? He'd always been led to believe that soulmates knew at the same time, but is that wrong? Has he not said the words she bears on her body? Is such a thing possible?
He's been quiet for too long, and he's certain his face has done something, but now he has to try to find a way to save it. How is he supposed to save this? He certainly can't tell her, not when she hasn't experienced it herself.
Or would it be better to tell her? No, likely not. She might assume that he's trying to cozy up to her to win her favor, or perhaps even her hand in marriage. How uncouth, that would be such an underhanded tactic! Still, she doesn't know that he is the sort of person to never stoop to such a level, so it's for the best that he keeps quiet for now.
Lorenz clears his throat, his right hand drifting over his left arm for a moment before he composes himself and settles back into his usual, more relaxed stance.]
I... was simply wondering if you found Claude's behavior strange.
[It's underhanded to throw his own house leader under the carriage, but it's the first thing he can think of and it will at least be somewhat plausible. It won't shine a favorable light on him - or on the Golden Deer, for that matter - but it's the only way he can think of to save this.]
I had expected him to be rather sore after losing to your tactics. He seemed incredibly upbeat, however. Ah, but perhaps that's just my imagination... My apologies, I didn't mean to waste your time.
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Well, what Lorenz does say gets something of a surprised look out of Edelgard. She's certainly not going to disagree with Lorenz, at any rate; Claude was unusually cheerful and chatty last week. But why wouldn't he just go to Claude with that, if he had concerns?
...Then again, Edelgard remembers just how difficult of a person Claude is and discards that thought easily. It's a shame that Lorenz can't even trust his own house leader, really, but it isn't so surprising; Claude is an incredibly guarded individual.
Still, Edelgard isn't naive enough to think that this is what he had in mind, but...]
...I see. I don't believe that it was simply your imagination, but I don't believe that I would know Claude as well as you. Nor the other Golden Deer.
[Which brings her to her point--]
Why exactly would you seek me out to ask about this? [Her tone isn't entirely accusatory, but it once again carries authority in it.] Surely you could speak to the other members of your house, if you had concerns. Hilda may have a far more concrete answer, for one. It makes it sound as if you don't trust the members of your house to give you an answer.
[...Maybe she could stand to be a little less blunt about such things, but as much as she'd love to drag Claude, she does have an air of professionalism to keep up.]
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And then Edelgard ruthlessly crushes it under her heel and he's back on the defensive, struggling to come up with a way to play this off. He's already dug this grave for himself, he certainly can't stop digging now.]
I do plan on going to them as well, but...
[Goddess grant him strength, there is no way he's going to be able to lie his way out of this one. He's a noble, he isn't the sort of person to rely on lies. But what other choice does he have? He can't tell her the truth. This is something she'll have to find on her own, no matter how long it might take.]
I wanted a second opinion. [There, yes; he can work with this.] Before I go to them, I wanted to hear if anyone else had noticed Claude's behavior. I thought you might, since you seem to be very perceptive.
[...It literally doesn't occur to him that that's sort of backhanded since she didn't notice anything, oops.]
I wouldn't want to worry the rest of the Golden Deer about nothing, after all.
[It's a struggle to keep his eyes on her and not to look away, but glancing away is a sure sign of lying, isn't it? He already feels as though she can see right through him, and some small part of him wishes she would, if only so he wouldn't have to actually talk about this.]
Anyway, I am sorry to have troubled you for such a trivial reason. I'm sure it isn't anything too pressing.
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...The backhanded compliment is definitely noted, but really, she can see better than anyone that he's lying; his body language is utterly betraying him, and he can't even look at her straight. He clearly has a reason to call upon her here, but he's not telling her the truth.]
Lorenz.
[Edelgard is very firm when she says his name, and she removes any trace of annoyance from her face when she speaks up. She doesn't want him fleeing on her just yet, after all.]
I would appreciate it if you didn't feel the need to lie to me. In fact, I would like it more if you spoke about what was actually on your mind, instead of avoiding the subject. If you have called me out here, then you can at least do that much.
[...Okay, that's harsh, but it is true. Edelgard's look doesn't quite soften, but it's a little more leaderly and something...well, gentle isn't a word that exists in Edelgard's dictionary, but it's something like concern.]
I imagine that you know better than to waste anyone's time with something pointless; especially the time of a noble. [...Edelgard, that was a really shitty attempt at a compliment or a reassurance--] That's why I don't believe this isn't something pressing; if there is something that truly troubles you, I would prefer to hear the actual reason. I can hardly offer any input if I don't know the reason why. Wouldn't you agree?
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Of course, there are still missions that he's said that he'll help out with, and today happens to bring upon one of them; Professor Byleth is taking the Black Eagles out to defeat some bandits that have been terrorizing a local town, and Edelgard has asked for Lorenz's assistance to help them. The more numbers they have on their side, the better; they need to remove this issue as cleanly as possible. Their tactic seems to be a pincer formation, with the intention of cornering the leader of the bandits and taking out all of the others along the way. Hubert, Lorenz, Linhardt, Caspar, and herself are composing the right flank, while Professor Byleth, Bernadetta, Dorothea, Ferdinand, and Petra take the left.
They should be able to take the bandits down cleanly, if they do it like so. Once they're in position and Edelgard has her axe at the ready, she'll look over to Lorenz.]
I trust that you're ready to proceed when the Professor gives the order? Our orders are to ensure that none of them escape, and to stay with our groups as best as we are able.
[The words are firm, but this will be the first time she's actually seen him on the field since she had been so far into the back during the battle on Gronder Field. She wants to make sure he's prepared.
(She wants him to stay close, too, but she doesn't say that.)]
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Maybe it's because of their bond as soulmates.
Joining the Black Eagles today is fairly simple; as long as the Golden Deer don't have any conflicts, he's free to do as he pleases. Claude was remarkably laid-back about the idea when first proposed, and does little more than tease him about it. It's not something he trusts, but he won't complain about it. Claude could be actively trying to keep him from helping the Black Eagles out, after all.
So here they are today, and Lorenz is prepared for battle. He hasn't fought with the Black Eagles before, but they have a formation they're to stick to, and he's here with Edelgard (which he prefers, even if Ferdinand is someone he believes he could fight alongside easier due to their similar fighting styles). Still, he's not sure how likely it is that they'll actually stick to the formation. Caspar is unpredictable and Linhardt seems to lag behind...
Not that he complains, of course. It's not his place to say anything about it.
He looks down at Edelgard from his position on horseback, nodding at her words.]
I'm prepared. I won't let you down.
[...]
I... won't let the Black Eagles down.
[R-Right, just ignore that momentary slip—]
I'm certain I will be capable of handling whatever comes my way. I won't rush ahead, of course; I'll be nearby should any of you require my assistance.
[The others are probably giving him varying degrees of weird looks, but he's only focused on Edelgard. He did mean what he said - he won't let her down.]
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Edelgard has the decency to not look too bewildered when he lets that first bit slip--she briefly blinks once, twice, even a third time and tries not to let it affect her, though her gaze briefly darts. She should be irritated, that this is just for her and not for the benefit of everyone here, and yet something about those words being just for her is...
Strangely nice. They shouldn't be; Hubert has said similar things in the past and it's never quite gotten to her like this, so why is it with him? Edelgard doesn't understand it, really. There's much that she won't admit she doesn't understand, about love and about hearts and all of that nonsense.
Still, Edelgard wipes the look off of her face once he finishes speaking, nodding her head easily and filing what that did to her malfunctioning feelings away for later. He was just being forward. He caught himself and he fixed it, and everything is fine.
She still finds herself rubbing at her wrist, where those words lay unread, on instinct.]
See to it that you don't; I will also be here if you need assistance.
[...She wants to say more, and yet the words don't leave her before the Professor gives the signal to go on the offensive--the bandits are in sight, after all.]
Simply ensure that you stay safe.
[And with that, the battle begins; the formation is easy enough to stick to, and both Edelgard and Hubert both are able to take command of their side of the formation easily. Edelgard easily brawls with the incoming bandits, her axe cleaving down anyone who attempts to even strike her down. She fights as easily as she breathes, really.
Not to say that she's not keeping her eye on Lorenz, at least somewhat; she watches him fight and she's certainly impressed with him, though she tries not to let that distract her too much. They have bandits to rout, after all, and even letting one escape would be a poor mark against them.
Which is certainly why Edelgard winds up falling back a bit--her eyes scanning to see how many are left, and she winds up bumping into Lorenz while she does so and looks to him--]
Lorenz, was this all of them? I only counted four among the ones that we've been able to defeat.
[Edelgard can't quite see as well, though she's looking out for any disturbances in the forested area--Lorenz will likely have a better opportunity to see the bandit's leader fleeing, attempting to make a break for his life.]
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They're off immediately, with Edelgard and Hubert giving orders and working together seamlessly. Linhardt and Caspar are difficult enough to work around, but Edelgard doesn't seem to have any issues adjusting to them and maneuvering on the fly. She's not only able to lead, but to fight, and as expected, she's exceptional. Her strength is amazing to behold, especially when she no longer has to hold back like she does during training. Lorenz could probably get distracted with watching her, but he doesn't allow it; he's focused on keeping himself alive and looking out for the others, at the very least.
His fighting style isn't quite as efficient as Edelgard's. He's still learning how to manage fighting on horseback and using magic, so results are a little bit less effective than he'd like. Still, he's got range that Edelgard doesn't, and maneuverability that the mages lack. Being able to hit with both lance and magic gives him a lot more options, and perhaps most importantly, the height gives him a better view of the battlefield.]
There— Look!
[He points in the direction the leader fled; he's got a good head start on them.]
Here, join me. We'll catch him in no time.
[He holds out a hand for Edelgard to help her up onto the horse. Sure, he could go after the bandit alone, but that seems like a terrible idea. He's skilled, certainly, but he isn't rash enough to put himself at risk against the bandit leader like that. It could end poorly. It'll be safer if they stick together.]
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Edelgard won't allow that. She can't--her pride absolutely won't allow it. She doesn't even hesitate to get on the horse with Lorenz, careful not to hurt the horse while she does, and she grips onto Lorenz's shoulder to help her stay on--with a hand on one of her Hand Axes, ready to strike.]
We cannot let him have even one opportunity to regroup; our mission will have been for nothing otherwise. After him!
[Edelgard's pride is on the line here, and she sounds pissed that this guy could even attempt to make an escape. She doesn't register anything else--how she's gripping Lorenz's shoulder, and how awkward that will be when the adrenaline wears off.]
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Hold on!
[The bandit chief's on foot, so there's no way he can outrun them, even so, Lorenz's handling of his horse is good enough to get them there in almost no time at all. He's already launching a Fire spell and he's certain Edelgard's going to make good use of that hand axe.]
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Maybe that's just wishful thinking, though.
Nevertheless, Lorenz and Edelgard are at the training grounds today. They could be practicing with their usual weapons, but there's something different on the agenda today. Their magic lessons have reached the point of practical study, which means putting what they know into practice. Doing that in the library is a terrible idea, so here they are.
Lorenz still has a bit more experience than Edelgard, but she's learning quickly and in no time he's certain she'll catch up with him. Some part of him wants to keep working to surpass her, but mostly he's pleased to see her progress. Admittedly he could be learning more if he insisted on focusing on reason magic exclusively, but he's currently being trained in faith magic as well. It never hurts to have an extra healer, but...
Well, he's not going to be healing the Golden Deer. In truth, Lorenz isn't certain when he made up his mind that he'd join the Black Eagles. He'd like to say it wasn't right after Edelgard proposed the idea, but he's not sure that's true. Given Claude's leadership style - and personality - it's obvious that they're going to keep clashing for the remainder of the year. It will be far easier for him to follow Edelgard. Besides, it isn't as though switching classes really means anything. It isn't as though he's turning his back on the Alliance, though it might send a strong message to Claude that he needs to get his act together or others will take their leave as well.
Not that he's told Edelgard any of this yet. There isn't really any reason to hesitate, but Lorenz finds himself doing just that anyway. It's easier to relax around Edelgard now, but even so he's never truly at ease. She's his soulmate, and someone he needs to win the approval of. He doesn't know how she feels about him. So he must continue to do his best around her, and now is certainly no exception! He'll figure out the correct way to ask to join the Black Eagles at some point; there are more important things to do right now.]
Fire isn't particularly difficult to conjure, you see. [He holds a hand out and a small flare springs to life, cupped in hand.] It can be a bit difficult to control, but with enough focus, it won't grow any more.
[He's staring very intently at the flame as he holds it there and while it occasionally flickers a bit, as if attempting to grow larger, he manages to keep it controlled.]
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Even if there's still the worry that looms overhead that this will come to an end eventually, when war rages--Edelgard does what she can to put those thoughts out of her mind when she's with him. He still hasn't officially joined their class yet, but they can still steal away moments like these, for practical studies in something she's learning because of Lorenz; reason magic.
Edelgard has always tried to focus on her physical skills first and foremost, but magic is something else entirely. It's something that can run wild if one isn't careful when using it; it's for that reason that Edelgard has avoided it. The last thing she needs is to get injured and have reason for someone to see the scars that run underneath her clothing.
It's a risk she wants to take, though. One has to take more than a few risks in order to truly succeed, and Edelgard doesn't want to let this opportunity pass her by while there's still time.
So Edelgard watches intently while they're in the training grounds, studying the flame and nodding her head as she listens to him. It makes sense, seeing it in motion; she can see how he concentrates, how that flame wants to grow bigger but cannot. How it flickers and yet stays where he needs it to, controlled perfectly.]
I see. Though it's easy to conjure, one must exhibit control and perfect concentration in order to keep it from going out of control...
[Edelgard muses, briefly, as she watches him. It's easy enough to grasp, and she wants to put it into practice herself. Edelgard holds out her own gloved hand, preparing herself as she watches what he's doing and intends to imitate it. A small flame springs to life in Edelgard's own hand easily, and she attempts to concentrate in order to keep it under control. At first, it seems like she has it under control; the flame stays flickering in her hand, her concentration keeping it under control.
And then for a brief moment, it decides it has a mind of it's own when Edelgard's mind wanders, and her eyes widen when she feels it starting to go awry.]
No--!
[The flames catch Edelgard's palm and cause her to flinch back--away from Lorenz, away from the fire, until it falls to the ground and Edelgard's clutching her hand close and stomping out the flame as if it's personally wronged her. Her hand stings, the nerves on fire even though the flame is long put out both on her hand and on the ground.
Needless to say, it's not Edelgard's finest hour. The pain isn't nearly as bad as what she's faced, but it's not that which keeps her clutching her hand close; it's the fact that she's going to need new gloves, because of what they were hiding, that she can't let him see--]
--Lorenz, I'm afraid this lesson will have to be cut short.
[Edelgard's words are rushed; very businesslike, yet very rushed.]
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Not that he would have been able to save her hand even if he'd been more focused, but he could have help her put out the flame quicker, at least.]
I— Yes, of course; that's certainly no problem, but Edelgard...
[It's taken a ridiculous amount of control to keep himself from reaching out for her, but he does take a step closer now, holding out a hand as an offering.]
Please, permit me to heal that. I'm nowhere near as skilled as Professor Manuela, or any of the other healers, but I imagine that stings quite a bit. Let me help.
[His words are careful and composed, but his expression gives away just how worried he is. Sure, with such a small flame it's unlikely that she's been seriously injured, but a burn hurts no matter how small it is. It makes sense to heal it as quickly as possible, and he doubts she wants to go deal with Professor Manuela right now, or try to find Linhardt's newest napping spot.]
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Edelgard turns away at that, as if hiding her hand from view will make it hurt any less. She doesn't want him to see what else is here--she can see just from getting a brief look at it that she needs to get it attention, but surely Hubert has something she can use.]
I appreciate your willingness to assist, but such a thing won't be necessary. I'm--fine, Lorenz.
[She's really not, and that brief hiss is absolutely telling about how much it stings, when even she can't keep her composure.]
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Please, Edelgard.
[He remains where he is, hand still outstretched. He wants to approach, but he's certain she'll back away if he does.]
It's my fault you've injured yourself, so please permit me to heal it.
[...]
An injury like that will only cause problems if it isn't tended to as soon as possible. Please.
[If it was just that she wanted to handle it herself, he can't imagine her reaction would be this severe. So perhaps she's hiding something...? No, it doesn't matter what her reasons are. He wants to help her. He just hopes she'll let him.]
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But even so, Lorenz has a point. If she doesn't get this taken care of soon, it could cause even more problems. She'd rather not deal with anymore injuries than she has to, and especially one that could impair her combat abilities.
...]
It's hardly your fault that I'm injured, Lorenz. There is no need to blame yourself.
[Edelgard turns back to Lorenz, and her expression is gravely serious.]
But very well. I shall permit you to heal it. [And then, a little quieter.] We are to find somewhere private to do so, however.
[Edelgard stares at his outstretched hand, contemplative for a moment though her expression doesn't change. As much as she wants to say this is all for avoiding a scene, the more Edelgard looks at him, the more she sees how sincere he is. It's not something she can afford to let herself linger on, and yet something in her chest seems to grow tight at seeing such a thing--something that makes her want to reach out and take his hand in hers.
It's silly. It's foolish, even after so long. She can't be falling in love this easily, can she?
Edelgard doesn't wind up taking his hand, but he does have her permission, once they find somewhere private.]
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That's not to say it's been easy - he's had some sleepless nights and he's spent a good amount of time in his room trying to imagine the exact scope of what she wants to do - but it's been easier than he would have expected. Edelgard wants to usher in a bright future, and she's willing to drag Fódlan into war to make that a reality. It's terrible that this is the only way, but this is her path forward, and it's one he still wants to walk with her.
Not that he'd have much of a choice if he changed his mind. He figures Hubert would never allow word of their plans to slip, and at least part of why he's so wary of Lorenz is precisely because of that. Hubert has no reason to trust him, after all.
Of course, that isn't the only reason why Hubert's irritating him, though Lorenz always does his best to give Edelgard no indication of that. He understands that Hubert is Edelgard's vassal - and most likely her closest friend - but that doesn't mean he should be constantly watching them. He isn't even being subtle about it anymore. If Lorenz is constantly able to catch sight of him, then it's being done on purpose. Hubert is refusing to allow them any time to themselves, which he supposes is somewhat fair given that Hubert doesn't trust him, but all he wants to do is kiss his girlfriend.
It is true that pursuing a relationship with Edelgard as openly as he'd like would draw attention to themselves, and that's something they need to avoid as Edelgard's plans keep moving forward. (He doesn't know the specifics, which is a little unnerving, but he trusts her, and he trusts that things will work out.) So Lorenz has been patient to wait, careful in his words in public so as never to be too blatant about it.
Thankfully, Edelgard agreed to spend more time with him and while it might be a little presumptuous to call this a date, it certainly is time they're spending together outside the monastery where less people will be interested in whatever they're doing. So maybe it is a date.
Lorenz is already waiting at the gate; he's arrived far earlier than necessary, but he's always one to be punctual and the nervous energy coursing through him wouldn't allow him to remain in his room for much longer. There's no reason to get worked up, and yet he finds himself doing so anyway. Hopefully he'll be alone with Edelgard today, but he doubts Hubert will give them any space at all.]
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The third time was when Edelgard finally decided to confront Hubert on it, noticing that it's become a habit. Hubert swiftly denied this, of course. His distrust of Lorenz is obvious, but his blatant disapproval of them even attempting to kiss is moreso. And to put it bluntly, it's been getting rather irritating, even despite Edelgard's orders for him to cut it out.
It's underhanded, but Edelgard does know Hubert better than most. He's someone who does need something to work on, and considering how much he's insisted on doing all of her work for her, she's given him plenty to do. That should occupy him for...well, she's not going to be utterly fantastical and say all day, but it should hold him for a few blessed hours while she and Lorenz go off by themselves for a while.
Edelgard doesn't usually like leaving things up to chance, but this is probably the first time she's going into something without any sort of plan. The only real plan she has with Lorenz is to go into town, but once they're there...well, Edelgard doesn't know. There's bound to be some shops and the like, and maybe somewhere she can kiss her boyfriend in gods damned private for once...
Either way, Edelgard is right on time when she sees Lorenz at the gate; she finds herself smiling when she sees him, even if there's plenty of nervous energy coursing through her as well. She hides it well enough, at least, as she comes up to him.]
I hope I haven't kept you waiting for too long. I had some prior business to take care of, but we should have a few hours to ourselves, at minimum. [Edelgard finds herself smiling.] Shall we be off?
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You haven't, no need to worry. [Those very reassuring words earn a pleased grin.] I'm pleased to hear it. I cherish all the time we spend together, after all!
[...laying it on a little thick already, huh...
But Hubert doesn't appear out of nowhere to make himself known, so maybe they really are on their own for a little while. Good! Whatever Edelgard's tasked him with will hopefully keep him occupied for that long!]
Well then, let us be off!
[He wants to offer her his arm, but they're supposed to be rather discreet about their courting... So instead he starts walking, in no hurry so she can keep pace easily beside him.]
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Try to save the sweet nothings for when we're in town, Lorenz. [She shakes her head a bit, but the smile on her face is at least indicative of the fact she's not really irritated by it.] But it does please me to hear that as well.
[Edelgard's certainly hoping Hubert will be occupied for the time needed, but she was certain to give him quite a bit of work...and she certainly gave no indication that she was going off of the monastery grounds today.
...Which. Could pose a problem when Hubert finally realizes she's gone, but that's a problem for future Edelgard!
Either way, Edelgard will gladly be following him and keeping pace with him all too easily--they're going to need to be discreet, but there is no harm in staying close like this at all. It's actually nice to walk with him like this...
She'll wait until they're a good ways away before starting to talk, on the off chance that somebody else hears, but--]
Tell me, do you have anything in particular you would like to do once we have arrived? It isn't often that I agree to something without planning in advance, but I can't deny that it is perhaps a touch...
Exciting, I suppose.
[...She may have inherited that from Hubert. Gotta at least be two steps ahead of everyone, after all. But Edelgard isn't lying, despite needing a moment to find the words--she never usually likes going into anything without a plan, after all.]
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I can't say I'm surprised by that. [That she plans everything in advance, that is.] It's certainly understandable; I prefer to have some plan in mind as well. But spending time with you like this is truly wonderful. Even if we have no plans or goals to accomplish here, we do get to enjoy one another's company!
[...he's just naturally Like This...]
I have heard that there's a traveling weapons merchant in town today, so we could certainly stop there.
[It could just be ornamental or decorative weapons, which he assumes Edelgard will have no interest in. But it's possible they're practical and rare weapons, and he'd certainly love to get his hands on a new lance. It isn't one of his main interests, but many of them don't really fit with the world Edelgard wants to usher in. So this is a fair compromise, he thinks. It's a direction, in case she wants one; he'll be content being by her side regardless of what they do and how much they accomplish.]
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(Just ignore that her cheeks are dusted with a bit of pink. It's fine? It's fine.)]
Well, as long as you're enjoying this and nothing goes wrong, I suppose I can agree with that much. I wouldn't mind simply enjoying your company.
[...But then he brings up weapons and Edelgard's interest is Piqued.]
Really? Well, you certainly won't find me denying a chance to look at some new weaponry--I'm afraid my own are growing quite dull. Let's see what they have in stock.
[That's good!! That should be subtle enough not to raise any alarm. It's all foolproof!!
...
Still, though...]
If I may, however... [How does she say this...] Do you know if there may be any sellers of paints and the like in this town?
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