and if there's love in this life, there's no obstacle

[nobiliteased]

[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?

Comments

[enbarr]

[Soulmates were something Edelgard grew out of in incredibly due time; as the imperial princess, Edelgard had many expediencies placed upon her, and the idea of following her heart had long been shut out of her by the state of the world. When she was brought back to Enbarr, the fantasies of a soulmate were pushed out of her mind as she schemed and planned to make the future better for all. Sometimes Edelgard does remember it, though; talking to Hubert about what her soulmate could possibly look like, what they would say to her, and every other little thing about them...such fantasies would only be a distraction, she was certain.

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?

[nobiliteased]

[He nods at that, then... awkwardly nods at Hubert, though whether it's "thanks for letting me drag the princess away without your ever watchful eye" or just acknowledgement is sort of up in the air.

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.]

[enbarr]

[...Hubert's absolutely not going to let either of them entirely out of sight, but he has plenty of ways to watch without being obvious. So it's fine? It's fine. For a certain value of it being fine.

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.]

[nobiliteased]

[...She doesn't know what he's talking about?

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.

[enbarr]

[Was he expecting something else? Edelgard watches Lorenz, wondering just what he's getting at. Surely, he must have something in mind. Certainly he wouldn't try to waste her time with something so inane and pointless when she could be doing so much more. Irritation slowly starts to enter her expression as time wears on--she'd like for him to just tell her, so that she doesn't have to wonder, but...

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.]

[nobiliteased]

[For a brief moment, Lorenz believes he's gotten away with his lie and will be allowed to escape with (some of) his dignity intact.

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.

[enbarr]

[Why is he being so defensive about this? Edelgard keeps her eyes on him, watching intently as she tries to puzzle just. What the hell he's trying to do here. She supposes that it makes sense that he'd seek a second opinion, but surely he doesn't think that she knows Claude any better than the Golden Deer do. He's irritating at best to the rest of the Black Eagles (at least, Edelgard thinks he is), and none of this adds up...

...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?

[nobiliteased]

[...Ah.

Honestly, Lorenz is quite certain he'd be in less pain if Edelgard had simply punched him, though such a thing would be unthinkable as she is the Imperial princess. Still, his pride has been crushed under her heel and his own stupidity, and he's not entirely sure what his face is doing, but it's certainly proved her point.

He doesn't lie well, he's never had a reason to learn how to. So it's really no wonder that she's seen right through him. Why did he think that this would work and wouldn't blow up in his face?

He stoops into a bow immediately, and it's only partially so he has a moment to avoid looking at her.]

You have my apologies, that was thoughtless of me.

[He rights himself after a moment, doing his best not to allow his gaze to wander.]

In truth, I was a bit caught off-guard when you hadn't had the same realization I have. It was unacceptable and unbecoming for me to attempt to mislead you in such a way. You have my sincere apologies for such a thing.

[There's a slight flush across his cheeks; embarrassment at his own behavior, not at being caught.]

The truth is that I... discovered my soulmate that night. [Deep breath.] The words you said to me are the ones etched on my skin; words I never thought to hear from anyone.

[There. No more lying. No more dancing around the subject, no misleading. It's out in the open and there's not a damn thing he can do to stop it now.]

I intended to seek you out to see how best to proceed, but I hadn't realized you didn't have the same experience. Once again, I must apologize for my behavior. I hope you can find it within your heart to forgive me for such a thing in the future.

[enbarr]

[Oh, good, he's actually going to get to the point. A hand settles itself on Edelgard's hip as her look neutralizes, listening intently to what he's saying. Even so it's...confusing, really. "Didn't come to the same realization he had"? Just what was he getting at here? He certainly can't be trying to say that he found out Claude was strange last night, considering how much he deals with the man on a day-to-day basis. Or maybe he's just trying to admit that he likes someone from the Black Eagles house; Edelgard has heard plenty of rumors about him seeking noblewomen to marry, but it doesn't make sense that he's trying to ask her about this--

And then he flushes, and Edelgard's wondering what that's about before he drops the meteor on her from above and...

...

Well, this is going in a direction Edelgard wasn't expecting this to, and not even she can stop herself from looking utterly godsdamned thrown by this. Edelgard certainly remembers the things she said last week, though she deemed the words unimportant, but...]

I...see.

[...Those words sound about as awkward as she looks right now, but--no. She won't allow herself to be thrown by this. Edelgard is the imperial princess, for the goddess's sake! She has a reputation to uphold, and she can only imagine that people are likely staring--she refuses to let this overwhelm her. Just as soon as the words are uttered, Edelgard's look goes back to something far more authorative.]

I appreciate your honesty. I understand that this must be an awkward subject to talk about, and knowing how to proceed even more so. I can't imagine how such a thing must feel.

[Literally! Because Edelgard hasn't looked at her wrist in years and she's certainly not going to do it now.]

Forgive my skepticism, but I would like to see where those words were written on you. Will you show them to me?

[One part of her is definitely skeptical due to the way he's interacted with women prior; this would be a new low even for Lorenz to try to lie about something like this to find a suitable wife. The other is willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, because...honestly, he puts too much value in nobility and for once, that's a good thing; he'd know better than to try something like this with her, of all people.

Certainly this will work. Hubert has already seen what's written on her own arm, so there shouldn't be any trouble in seeing what's written on Lorenz's, right?]

[nobiliteased]

[This is about what he was expecting, honestly. If his father was this strict about never considering his soulmate, he can only imagine how much worse it was for Edelgard. He's not sure if it's better or worse that she's hearing about it before experiencing it. Either way, she looks thrown, at least for a moment until she manages to get her expression under control.]

Your skepticism is understandable, of course. Here.

[Lorenz carefully rolls up his left sleeve, revealing the words neatly penned on his wrist. At least, they would look neatly penned, if Edelgard could see more than a black smudge. That's the thing about soulmates, they can't actually see the exact words written there. Anyone else can, but not your soulmate.

It's not as widely-known as everything else about soulmates. Give Lorenz a moment and maybe he'll remember, but for now... Well, for now you're stuck dealing with this. Sorry, Edelgard.]

[enbarr]

[Edelgard will gladly walk closer when he reveals his wrist to her, intending to read out those very words that he had apparently heard from her. Surely it would be easy enough to recall them, but having a wrench like this thrown into her plans would still be a problem...

...]

Lorenz, I can't read a single thing.

[Edelgard's...honestly, she's confused. She doesn't know a single thing about soulmates and really doesn't intend to, but she's not sure what's worse; the idea that he could be lying to her (which angers her), the idea that some people in this world are born without soulmates (which angers and saddens her), or the idea that there's something there, possibly, but she just can't read it. (which is frustrating)

Really, Edelgard can't hide the frustration that she feels as she looks back up to Lorenz, releasing his wrist and trying to keep herself calm. She's been in far more tense situations, she can deal with this with grace.]

I sincerely hope that you aren't lying to me. [...She doesn't let that linger for long.] But the fact that I can't see anything does not make any sense. All I can see is a black smudge, and not a single word that I may have said to you.

[Edelgard doesn't like not being in control of the situation, and it shows in how frustrated she's starting to get.]

Do you know anything about such a phenomenon?

[nobiliteased]

You can't see...?

[He glances down at his wrist, as if to make sure the words are really still there. Of course they are - they've been a constant part of his life for as long as he can remember, and it isn't as though the words simply fade. But Edelgard can't see them. She can't read what's written on his wrist. Why?]

I would never attempt to falsely claim anyone for a soulmate! I'm really not sure why you can't—

[And that's when the realization hits him, much like a blunt axe to the face. He ends up staring for a moment, as though processing it.]

...I... have heard that soulmates cannot read the words written on each other, but I didn't know...

[He trails off there, looking somewhere between baffled and mortified. This entire day is turning out to be one of the worst he's ever experienced, and he'd very much like to return to his room and bury his face in a pillow and scream, but fine. Sure. This is what's happening now. The only thing he has for her is hearsay that only makes his case look even worse. Great!]

You have my apologies, I'd completely forgotten about such a thing.

[enbarr]

[To her credit, Edelgard does actually try to listen to Lorenz when he tries to defend himself. Edelgard doesn't really know anything about him outside of what she's learned of House Gloucester through studying and the rumors of his behavior. Still, him trying to defend himself either means he was caught in a lie or that he has more standards than anyone is willing to give him credit for...]

...What?

[But then he drops that little revelation on her and she's sincerely not sure how to feel.]

That's entirely counter-productive to finding one's soul mate, and it makes no sense at all. Why exactly would such a thing be necessary? What can you tell me about--

["Lady Edelgard."

Hubert's voice cuts in from behind Edelgard, silent as the grave as ever--when did he wind up coming over? Lorenz likely saw him before she did, if he was paying attention, and her vaguely accusatory, interrogating words cease as she turns to face him, before he starts to speak again--]

Ah, Hubert, you have perfect timing. [Edelgard gestures for him to come over, though--] Lorenz, please hold still for a moment--Hubert, could I ask you to take a look at his wrist, and tell me what you see?

[...This isn't what he was expecting to carry out, but Hubert doesn't let that show on his face. "Very well, then." Hubert goes over easily, staring down at Lorenz's wrist in order to see just what he's lying about and--

...Well, his face is certainly going on a journey. He was certainly there to hear those words, and Edelgard's starting to get concerned. Lorenz clearly isn't lying at this point, but Edelgard's wondering just what damning thing she must have said at this point. Before Edelgard can ask him to clarify, Hubert speaks up.

"Noble blood alone cannot help one on the field of battle."

Hubert utters those damning words and Edelgard feels her veins run with ice. She had simply been meaning to chastise Lorenz for placing so much stock in simple nobility, but to think that something like that would be how Lorenz found out that she's his soulmate, of all things--]

...I can't say I expected something like that to be how you would find out about your soulmate.

[Edelgard's really trying hard to not be entirely thrown by this again, but she refuses to falter. Even if she's not really acknowledged that she, of all people, is Lorenz's soulmate, it's a lot to handle?

...And she can't help but be wondering why she'd get stuck with him, of all people...]

I owe you an apology, then, for accusing you of lying to me. [...] I'm certain that you can imagine that this situation is rather awkward, with our positions considered.

[...Finding the proper words to say is hard, and she's just kind of metaphorically dying? It's not showing on her face--Hubert's likely the only one who can tell that she's thrown and not sure what to do, but on the surface, at least, she seems calm and considering her actions.]

[nobiliteased]

[Oh no, she's interrogating him now... Well, he supposes that isn't all that unexpected; she likely wasn't ever told much about soulmates considering her position as the Imperial princess, and so she wouldn't have any interest in seeking out information about them. So she's curious now, because he's come to her with such an outlandish claim. Really, he can't find any fault in that, but it doesn't stop him from looking mildly alarmed.

Which only turns into openly alarmed when Hubert appears. He was a bit preoccupied with Edelgard, so he didn't notice the appearance of her vassal until Hubert's suddenly there in their business, and under most circumstances Lorenz would have found such a thing incredibly off-putting. Nobles shouldn't sneak around and they certainly shouldn't sneak up on one another! Though he supposes Hubert isn't exactly a typical noble at all, given his insistence on serving Edelgard.

Anyway, he doesn't fight it any, and permits Hubert to get a look at his wrist. This is really the only way he can think to handle it, though it does briefly occur to him that Hubert could lie. Edelgard would undoubtedly trust her retainer over him, and if that were to happen—

Well, he doesn't get time to consider it, because Hubert's doing something with his face. It's almost funny to see someone that stoic look so baffled, but Hubert speaks the words aloud and Lorenz glances back at Edelgard.

Amazingly, she doesn't seem to have much of a reaction. Oh, she's a bit taken aback, he's sure, but she's doing an admirable job of keeping it off her face. Edelgard certainly is quite skilled at dealing with being tossed into bizarre situations, it seems.]

They are some interesting words to bear.

[It's not a joke. They really are. Of all people to be branded with such a phrase, of course it's him. But maybe in time those words will mean more to him than being chastised.

Anyway, he lowers his sleeve, adjusting it a bit even once it's back in place so he has something to do with himself.]

No apology necessary, I can understand your hesitance and concern.

[She isn't just a noble, after all. She's to be the next emperor.]

I can likewise understand how awkward this is, yes. That's why I sought you out, though I didn't think things would go quite like this... Once again, you have my apologies.

[Despite the inherent awkwardness of... well, everything today has turned out to be, Edelgard seems to be taking it in stride. He imagines she'll need some time to work out how to address this.]

If you'd like we can discuss this... sometime later. It is a lot to take in, after all.

[enbarr]

[Yeah, this is...definitely going to be something that needs a lot of consideration. Something like this is going to throw a wrench in a great many plans, and the simple fact of the matter that he's her soulmate is making her wonder if the Goddess really does have it out for her at this point.]

Your apologies are accepted. I don't believe that any of us could have anticipated this situation turning out the way that it has.

[And that much is true, if nothing else. Seriously, Edelgard is still trying to process this, because she's not exactly sure what she did to deserve this?

Still, Lorenz is at least being reasonable, rather than being Ferdinand but purple, so she can at least try to be reasonable in kind.]

Yes. That would be beneficial to us both. [edelgard oh my god] Shall we meet back here this evening, then, to discuss our decisions?

[...This evening might not be enough time, but Edelgard does believe that she can be efficient enough to compartmentalize just what to do in that allotted time. That, and getting accosted randomly is something Edelgard would like to avoid; she does still have much to do. If she can manage her tasks and talk to Hubert about this, perhaps they can come to a conclusion that doesn't raise too much alarm, while at least seeing if he could prove useful.]

[nobiliteased]

[He nods at that; this is... a lot. More than a lot. If he's needed a solid week to process this, he can only imagine how long she'll require—

Oh. Apparently just the day? Huh. Well, Edelgard has undoubtedly had to deal with numerous difficult situations, so perhaps she really will be able to figure all of this out by then. She doesn't seem the sort to ignore it for any length of time, which is admittedly what he's done quite a bit since realizing...

Not that he's usually one to ignore his problems! But this is a bit... different...]

Ah, of course. Should you require more time, I will have no problems rescheduling our meeting, however.

I'll be here this evening, however. You have my word.

[He nods then, and quickly takes his leave. It's partially so he can try to process all of this, and partially so he can go scream into a pillow like he's been wanting to do this entire conversation. Why is his life like this, he didn't ask to be made a fool of in front of the Imperial princess (and his soulmate)!!!]

[enbarr]

In that case, we shall take our leave. I will meet you here this evening.

[Listen. In this house we deal with our problems efficiently and without lollygagging. Even if it's probably the worst course of action. It's fine! It's completely fine. Everything is going to go fine.

In any case, Edelgard will excuse herself easily and take both herself and Hubert out of there. Needless to say, they have...much to talk about--much about their plans and just how many wrenches this is going to throw into them. Rejecting him outright would be the safest bet, certainly, but there's certainly benefits to allowing this ball to fall into Lorenz's court. Having House Gloucester as an ally in the war that they'll wage in due time would be a boon, certainly; they're a powerful house, and having their full backing and support would grant them an edge. There's no denying that.

The risks, of course, come with whether Lorenz will truly stand by them, or if he'll only prove to be a nuisance in the end. He's certainly proven to be someone who benefits all too much from the nobility in it's current state, after all. It's rather doubtful that they could sway him on his views...

And yet...well, Edelgard does want to see if his mind could be changed. He must have had those words printed on him for a reason; perhaps they could serve as a lesson. A way to prove that the world is rotten to the core, and needs to be uprooted entirely.

...There's something selfish there as well, something that wants to see this through--something that wants him to prove her wrong, so that maybe when the war is won, such frivolity could be...

No. Edelgard won't allow herself that. She can't take her eyes off of her goal, and all that she needs to do.

She comes to an agreement with Hubert to at least attempt to take him under the Black Eagles' wing, if he is amendable to such a thing. No courting, no getting involved--a simple offer. If he refuses, then he refuses; Edelgard won't pursue this further. If he takes it...well, that's a bridge that she'll cross once she gets there, but surely taking him into the Black Eagles would be a reasonable choice.

Edelgard's decision is made by the time she comes back to that spot in the garden, early enough so that she may be able to rehearse what she'll say in her mind. It won't do her well to grow nervous--she can't afford to be, and so she won't. That's as simple as it needs to be.

All that matters now is what Lorenz decides to do.]

[nobiliteased]

[They take their leave and Lorenz takes his, returning to his room and burying his face into the pillows until he's certain he can face the world again. All of that was an absolute disaster, but she knows now. She hasn't experienced it for herself, which may prove detrimental—

Detrimental? What exactly is he hoping will happen here?

That's ultimately the question he gets stuck on. He knows his father would want him to pursue this, to marry into House Hresvelg and strengthen ties with the Empire. House Gloucester already does have some ties to the Empire, so this can only be beneficial. She would have to agree to permit him to continue governing as Count Gloucester, which would undoubtedly cause a bit of a stir within the Alliance... but all in all, it would be an exceptionally powerful family to ally themselves with.

He isn't really opposed to the idea. It isn't quite what he imagined when he pictured his future, but he didn't anticipate meeting his soulmate or her being a viable option to marry. But even so, he feels he doesn't know her well enough for that. Sure, most soulmates don't know each other very well before they realize their bond, but most of them do end up together, perhaps because of the bond. Even though he doesn't know her very well, he does feel a connection there; something tiny and fragile now, but something he desperately wants to protect and nurture.

Yet again, he finds himself hesitating to write to his father. He can always do it later, he reasons. He shouldn't risk distracting himself and running late to their meeting. It certainly isn't that he's avoiding it because he knows his father will be all too enthusiastic with the idea.

Anyway, he shows up on time, back at the gardens. Edelgard is already there, and even though they seem to be alone right now, he's certain Hubert is nearby, probably within earshot. It's unnerving knowing that they're being watched, but he does his best not to let that show as he greets her.]

Edelgard. Thank you for meeting me here.

[He expects her to get right to business, which is probably for the best. He's not really sure what to say to her, after all.]

[enbarr]

[There he is. He's punctual, if nothing else; Edelgard's lips do twitch up a bit into a smile, something at least pleased enough with him for showing up in the first place.]

Of course. I'm not in the habit of making arrangements that I cannot meet.

[Edelgard states that with pride, though it's on to business once that much is out of the way. She's nothing if not slightly predictable, at least in that regard.]

But before we both get carried away, we should discuss what we intend to do about our... [...What word do you even use to describe this hot mess...] ...situation, as it were. I have given it much due thought, and I do believe that I have come to a conclusion that might benefit us both.

[Of course...]

However, I don't intend to offer such a thing lightly. [Edelgard's tone is as serious as ever, and utterly business-like, if anything.] What would you like to come of this, if anything at all?

[It's a question that's definitely blunt, but it will give her an idea of just what she needs to do, and how she needs to word such an offer to him. This is something she feels entitled to know, so of course she's going to ask it.

...She certainly hopes that he's not going to ask outright to court her. She'd likely die on the spot.]

[nobiliteased]

[He nods at that, and then, as predicted, she moves on. Down to business. She pauses slightly, but otherwise it seems like she's figured out exactly how to address it, though she hasn't outright rejected him. He was wondering if that was what would happen, so it's good that it hasn't, he supposes...

He's ready for the question, though. He thought she might ask something like this, after all.]

I find it a bit hard to plan for anything right now, seeing as how we do not know each other very well. I believe the best course of action would be to get to know each other better.

[A safe answer, perhaps, but one he believes in. As it stands now he does feel a connection to her, but it isn't a particularly deep one. He scarcely knows anything about her, after all, and there's simply no telling if they would even be compatible - both as partners and as potential leaders. There's much to consider, and he feels it will be easier once they know each other a bit better.]

Of course, I do understand that your position is different than my own, and should you have a different solution, I am interested in hearing it.

[enbarr]

[Oh, good, they're on the same wavelength then. That actually gets something of a more genuine smile out of Edelgard; having control over the situation like this is good, and knowing that he's thinking similarly is good. It means that she can still salvage this.

...Not that she's sure why she wants to put more stock into this, but...]

I feel the same way. The future is unpredictable as it stands, and making any plans like that without properly knowing one another is ill-advised.

[It's an easy answer, though not entirely honest; the future is unpredictable because Edelgard intends to re-write it entirely, but Lorenz doesn't need to know that.]

I think that your solution would work quite well. [...] In fact, if you're so inclined, I would be willing to speak with the professors to arrange for you to work with the Black Eagles. You could transfer classes, or perhaps simply work with us on the missions that we are sent out to complete; that would surely allow us more time to get to know one another. Would either of those solutions suffice?

[This...is actually going much smoother than Edelgard was anticipating, honestly. Enough that she is putting the ball in his field; she's not sure if he would be so willing to leave the Golden Deer even on a temporary basis, but he is putting a lot of stock into this...]

[nobiliteased]

[Joining the Black Eagles... Well, such a thing isn't completely unreasonable. Several students have changed classes, and he's certainly considered leaving the Golden Deer in the past because of Claude. The rest are fine, but Claude... He doesn't like or trust Claude, and some part of him is very bitter that Claude showed up as the heir to House Riegan.

So transferring to the Black Eagles house isn't out of the question, but it isn't something he should jump into. He really should check with his father before doing something like that, though he can't imagine it'll be all that drastic of a change. He'll still see the same professors around, and it isn't as though he needs to remain with the Golden Deer.]

For now, I would like to work with your class. I'm a bit hesitant to jump into a transfer immediately, but perhaps in time I'll request one from you and our professors. I believe a transitional period will serve us both - as well as the Black Eagles - well enough, do you agree?

[There may be some problems adjusting to a new class, but Ferdinand's in the Black Eagles so surely it won't be too bad.

Besides, Edelgard wants this. She wants to get to know him better, even though he hasn't said the words hidden on her wrist. She's willing to give this a chance, even without the same feeling that tugs him toward her. He's certain she's thought this through, and she's decided it's worth seeing how things turn out at the very least, and that means more to him than he can really express. Maybe it's because of the bond, but he doesn't think that's the only reason. Soulmate or not, Edelgard is much kinder than she first seems.]

[enbarr]

[...This is going a lot more reasonably than Edelgard expected. Not that she was expecting the worst possible outcome, but she has to admit, it's actually nice that this all went so well. He'll be able to work with the class, they can see what happens, and Edelgard can keep an eye on him. It's the perfect solution.]

I certainly agree. It would be better to allow everyone--including ourselves--the time needed to adjust.

[At least for the time being. Edelgard doesn't know if this is something that will last, after all, but the thought of pursuing this even for a little while is...nice. It's frivolity that Edelgard was certain she'd never indulge in.]

Thank you for agreeing to this. I'm certain that it will prove to be beneficial, no matter the result.

[...Of course, with this much done, it begs the question of what to do now. Certainly letting him go would likely give them more time to adjust, but it still doesn't seem...right, Edelgard's sure. Her look goes briefly contemplative before going back to something more firm.]

Tell me, am I keeping you from anything?

[...Edelgard that's. The most backwards way of trying to ask if he's free or if he wants to spend more time together...]

[nobiliteased]

Yes, of course.

[It's good she's in agreement on that. They seem to be looking at it the same way, which is a bit of a relief. Not that he'd expect anything else from her, since this is the most practical way to view it. He's just glad she hasn't dismissed it outright.

It probably would be easy to pretend this never happened and to move on with their lives. He could still find a suitable wife to continue House Gloucester and she could reign as Empress. It's unlikely they'd have to see each other for very long - if at all - so perhaps it wouldn't be too bad. Still, Lorenz would be lying if he said that it sounded appealing. Knowing who his soulmate is would make it much harder to turn away from a life with her.

Not that he's blind to how many problems this could pose, of course. While it would be almost overwhelmingly beneficial for House Gloucester, the same cannot be said of House Hresvelg. She's undoubtedly considering all of that as well.

Ah, but he's getting ahead of himself. For now, they need to see if they're actually compatible as people not just as soulmates.

He figures that Edelgard will be busy, but before he can excuse himself, she asks him that and he finds his head tipping to the side just a bit as he tries to work out what she wants.]

No, you are not. I have the rest of the evening free.

[...Oh, is she asking to spend time with him...?]

If you'd like, we could take tea in the gardens. I would be pleased to share some of my favorite blend with you.

[...That isn't coming on too strong, is it...??]

[enbarr]

[Oh, that's good. Edelgard can work with that, and she's tempted to suggest something before he decides to...be rather forward...Edelgard's eyes widen briefly, before shifting to a somewhat awkward look.]

Lorenz, I think for the time being we should stick to something more platonic. [...] Or at the very least, something less likely to start rumors around the monastery...

[that is so forward, what were you, raised in a barn??? or in the same place where the king of lacking tact ferdinand came from???]

Would the library suffice instead? We could read together; I do have some studying that I need to do for tonight's homework, and perhaps we could help one another be prepared.

[...edelgard you just turned your hypothetical friendship-date into a work-date, oh my god]