[It's almost been six months since Hubert was summoned into this world. Six months is an awfully long time to be away from home and more importantly, away from Lady Edelgard. He's been here for longer than he was at the Officers Academy, which is something Hubert really doesn't want to think about. He's been reassured that time stops in their worlds when they're here - he's had it confirmed by several people who were able to return home before being summoned back - but even so the whole thing doesn't sit well with him.
But that's to be expected; he is here without Lady Edelgard, after all. Without her, Hubert has had to find a place for himself within the ranks of Askr's army.
It wasn't easy at first. His loyalty always will belong to Lady Edelgard, but for the time being he can serve Askr. There isn't any way to return home - not willingly, at least. It seems to happen at random, and so he has no choice but to make himself useful. He certainly could be one of the layabouts who does little for the army, but Hubert has never done well being idle. So he works, and he fights, and he strategizes, all to bring a victory in a war he has no reason to care about.
Askr has been locked in a conflict with Embla for a long time now. Veronica, princess of Embla, commands troops that she summoned from other worlds as well - but unlike those summoned to Askr, the ones summoned to serve Embla are more or less forced into service. Breaking their contract is possible, but it isn't always a sure thing. Those they are able to free usually come willingly to join the Askr forces. Askr isn't much better as far as Hubert's concerned - they're still pulling people from different worlds to serve them in a war none of the summoned have any reason to care about, but they at least give their summoned the option to do nothing for the war effort. It's not much, but it is more freedom than the Embla forces allow.
That's the role Hubert has fallen into. Dark mages are surprisingly common here - it seems other worlds have quite a few of them - but strategists aren't. There are certainly a few here, and more often than not any meeting with all of them in the same room quickly leads into a fight over ethics and tactics, but it's the role he's carved out for himself here, and one he doesn't really mind all that much. It keeps him busy, it allows him to prove himself both on and off the battlefield, and he's been given a command position as a reward. It's nice to be able to put his tactical knowledge into use on the field, and his usual team works well with him.
Well, sort of. He prefers the mobility of mounted units to compliment his own rather lackluster speed, but being stuck working with Prince Berkut drives him up a wall and the dislike is entirely mutual. The two are at each others' throats more often than they really should be, but they can and often do work well together on the battlefield. At least, before Hubert gained a position of command; now Berkut seems less likely than ever to actually listen. Still, he can always count on Beruka to be nearby, and she can usually swoop in to rescue him in dire situations, although he will never, ever get on the back of a wyvern. Thankfully, she hadn't questioned him at all about his insistence on keeping his feet firmly on the ground and not on the back of an unpredictable, scaly beast likely to drop him mid-flight.
So while things aren't exactly ideal, Hubert manages to stay busy and he's dealing with the changes as well as he can. He does enjoy the battles against Embla that he gets to command and take part in, and today's was no exception.
...Mostly. It's certainly a bit different with a familiar face on the field.
In all of his time in Askr, Hubert has never seen another person from Fódlan. He'd heard of a brutally strong young man with a lance that others had fought in the Emblan forces, but he's never personally seen anyone else familiar. That's certainly changed today, however, as his forces clashed with Embla's, and more importantly Linhardt.
If he were to pick a classmate to arrive here, it would obviously be Lady Edelgard. But if she were not an option, he'd likely choose Petra or maybe Dorothea, if he was feeling particularly generous. Linhardt would not even be a consideration, for many reasons. But after so long of being alone here, he can't help but feel a spark of something that feels dangerously close to relief at seeing a familiar face, even on the wrong side of the battle.
Their forces clash, his tactics prove superior, and Embla's forces withdraw. It's not a particularly dangerous engagement, but Beruka's already retreating with their other allies to tend to their injuries. Hubert's own are exceptionally minor, and more importantly, there's a familiar face here with a severed contract to deal with.]
Linhardt. [His voice is - as always - perfectly controlled, betraying nothing. His expression does a good job of covering whatever emotion is struggling to make itself known as well.] You're no longer in service to Embla.
[He's not entirely sure how their contracts work, and he's never personally seen what happens when someone's freed from it. But Linhardt's still here, so he must be free to make his own decisions now.
Hubert holds out a hand.]
Come with me. We'll heal your injuries, and you'll have the freedom to decide what to do next. You won't be forced to fight again.
[Of all of the things that could have happened in his life, Linhardt certainly didn't expect to get dragged into a bitter war. Much less on a side of the war that was certainly grasping at straws to manage anything at all; when Veronica summoned him a month ago, he wasn't given anything in the manner of options to decline and go back home. Veronica forced him into her service, and he's essentially been dealing with the many wounded who come through the medical wing in Embla.
It's a harsh thing, really. Veronica allows him no rest, and it's only hurting her army to keep driving them to their own extinction by barely allowing them any rest. He's brought it up to her once before; that maybe if she allowed her army a moment's respite, she wouldn't lose so many of the so-called 'Heroes' that she's forced into her service.
She threatens to rip out his tongue for the slight and he thinks better of speaking up again.
And that's just been his life for the past month. Walking on eggshells, being entirely too tired of any of this bullshit, and having more bags under his eyes than he's ever had in his life. Linhardt's honestly not surprised when Veronica tells him to take the battlefield; she's got plenty of other heroes she can summon, but there's no doubt in his mind that this mission is going to end in failure.
It ends up all but confirmed when he sees Hubert among the Askran's number, and despite putting up a good fight with the staff he's been provided, their forces prove victorious and his contract is severed entirely. Linhardt's not sure what to make of it at first, really; it's strangely freeing to not be under some sort of contract, that he can finally get a goddamn nap in, but--
Oh. Hubert's speaking to him. Linhardt rubs his eyes a bit before looking up at Hubert, tilting his head briefly before getting up from the ground.]
That much feels obvious. I suppose I should thank you for getting rid of that insufferably compulsive urge to serve that princess...
[...Yeah, it's all too obvious that Linhardt does not like Veronica. Still, Hubert's next words get a bit of a headtilt from him, but...]
I suppose it's better than laying on the ground for a while. I'll go with you, then.
[He'll walk over to Hubert and start walking with him when he starts walking. Even so, Linhardt speaks up while they walk.]
I wasn't expecting to see you here, Hubert. Did they force you into their service as well?
[Good. It's important that he bring Linhardt with him to keep an eye on him. It isn't as though he believes Linhardt is really necessary, but after so long with no familiar faces around... well, maybe he's beginning to feel a bit homesick. Maybe it's only sentimentality behind his decision, but he can hardly say he regrets it. The Askr royals will appreciate another face - particularly one who isn't inherently terrible.
As Linhardt falls into step beside him, Hubert considers his words.]
No. They did summon me to this world, but it seems as though they have no control over who they summon, and they allowed me to simply remain provided for in the castle.
[He could have spent his days doing absolutely nothing, but it's probably no surprise that Hubert didn't take that route.]
I don't have a contract binding me to them. While their methods are questionable, they at least aren't forcing us into servitude.
[That would have agitated him greatly, and he finds himself once again glad that he wasn't summoned by Embla.]
Really? I wouldn't have expected them to be so generous, with this war that's being waged against them.
[...]
But I do suppose that given how incompetent Veronica is, they have plenty of resources to afford to provide for all of the people they misplace. That is a point in the Askran's favor, at least.
[JESUS, LIN. THAT WOMAN HAS A FAMILY???
Linhardt yawns a bit and rubs at his eyes, but he keeps pace with Hubert easily. Even if Hubert isn't exactly the first person he'd like to see from home, there is something strangely...homey, about having someone from the monastery here in this world. It's strange, really. Linhardt doesn't exactly like Hubert to begin with, but there's something strange and almost warm about the realization that he isn't alone.
It's strange. He'll have to research it later.]
It does seem like you've kept yourself busy while you're here, however. [y'all kinda crushed his ghb] I'm surprised that they would allow an outsider in such a position of command, but I imagine they can't argue with the results at all...how long have you been here? And who were the people you were working with?
[That gets a chuckle out of him; Veronica absolutely deserves it, as far as he's concerned. He doesn't particularly care about the people they've liberated from her control, but she put Linhardt of all damn people through this - that's reason enough to be a little annoyed with her.
Linhardt's words get him to consider for a moment before answering.]
I've been here nearly six months. In that time, I've been making myself useful; there aren't many with talents in strategy, so all of us that are skilled have been granted permission to lead our own units. The people here with me today are some of the ones who often serve with me.
[That at least makes sense; if anyone out of them all could be trusted to become a tactician, it would be Hubert or Edelgard. It sounds like they've been utilizing his talents well. Certainly better than his own were, at any rate.]
It sounds as is the Askrans know how to utilize those who are willing to work for them well, at any rate. [It looks like they're getting close to the rest of the group, at least, which is good; he doesn't want to walk another step after that beatdown.] ...I suppose I'll try to see if there may be anything I can do to assist. Once I've had the chance to get a good nap in, of course.
[Linhardt chances a look at Hubert then, looking his fellow alumni over.]
You might want to rest as well. [...] Unless you've been electing to work yourself to the point of exhaustion, again.
Considering how few healers we have, there will undoubtedly be work for you, should you choose to seek it.
[There's no reason to push Linhardt here. If he wants to nap, then he can nap. If he wants to do nothing all day long, he's free to do that. If he'd rather research crests... well, he's out of luck, but perhaps he'll find something else to focus on and study, and that's fine too.
Ultimately, Linhardt's presence here has no impact on Lady Edelgard, and that means he's free to do as he wants. Should Lady Edelgard arrive then perhaps Hubert will change his mind, but for now... Well, there isn't any reason to try to force Linhardt into being useful. Besides, he could certainly use a break after being forced to deal with Veronica.
The second part gets him to glance over and smirk.]
I can assure you that I haven't been overworking myself.
[...Okay, that might not be entirely accurate, but given his definition of "overworking", he isn't. He doesn't push himself nearly as hard here because - once again - this isn't for Lady Edelgard. There is nothing he can do to hasten his return home, otherwise he would be working to the point of exhaustion. But since there isn't any way to return, he's simply keeping busy. Very busy, but Hubert has never done well with being idle.]
Your first stop is with the healers; you're free to rest for as long as you like after that.
[C'mon, Linhardt, you're getting patched up first!!]
[...Ugh, he really is going to be needed here. Curse his halfway functioning empathy, he was genuinely tempted to slack off in the castle forever, but uuuugh, how he has to try...
Nevertheless, Linhardt nods at Hubert's assertion--and Linhardt at least believes him. This would be another story entirely if Edelgard were here, but it does at least look like Hubert has been resting as needed. Well, as much as Hubert can, anyway.]
Good. I imagine you wouldn't want to go back to Edelgard's side in a state of disarray. But yes, yes, let's visit the healers...
[They're probably going to come upon the healers soon, and...well, Linhardt actually stops and stares at the bunch of them once he catches sight of them. There's...okay, there's a woman there who looks like she just climbed out of a tree, but then there's the two gaudy disasters here...
Linhardt looks to Hubert, incredulously.]
These are your healers?
[...HE SUDDENLY SEES WHY YOU NEED HELP, BUT SHOULD HE REALLY BE TRUSTING ANY OF THEM???]
[Hubert tries very, very hard not to sigh in annoyance as they locate the healers. For once, the two fashion disasters are actually here instead of wandering off or deciding they're too important to be bothered, but instead they've gotten into some sort of... hideously one-sided shrieking match. Gangrel's just laughing evilly while Iago yells and this is absolutely the best first impression they could have made.]
As you can see, the Askr army is an absolute mess.
[He's so done. He's just. So done. He's not even going to try to figure out what those two are fighting about or try to put a stop to them, because neither of them will listen and they both get really annoying when anyone tries to boss them around. So instead, Hubert gestures to the woman first.]
This is Deirdre, the only sane person here. She's an excellent healer and usually ends up doing the majority of the work. Without her, this army would undoubtedly fall apart.
[Next up is the redhead in the wild outfit.]
Gangrel, king of a land called Plegia. He prefers fighting, but he's one of the few among us who can heal. His personality is exactly as awful as his taste in fashion.
[And finally he gestures to the masked man who is... currently hexing Gangrel to force him to stop laughing, that's fine, probably.]
Iago. He's another tactician, so he occasionally commands his own forces. He'd rather be doing that than healing. He's a dark mage from a land called Nohr.
[and he's absolutely giving us dark mages a bad rep—
Anyway, Hubert turns back to Linhardt and completely ignores Iago warping away while Gangrel... gives chase since he doesn't have the ability to warp, this is just your standard idiocy as far as he's concerned.]
Deirdre will take care of any injuries you have, and will answer what questions she can until I return. I have a few things to tend to.
[...]
And I suppose I should stop Gangrel from murdering Iago, although it is what he'd deserve.
[There is. So much to unpack here. Like Linhardt is used to very...interesting individuals from the Academy, but these two?? These two are absolutely the definition of disasters, dear gods look at them. Linhardt winds up looking over everyone as Hubert introduces them--Deirdre at least seems to perk when she's introduced and gives the two of them a tired smile while Iago and Gangrel seem to fight in the background. She looks about as tired as Linhardt feels on a daily basis...
...And then Iago warps away and Gangrel gives chase, and Linhardt is trying really hard not to sigh in kind. Still, he'll nod his head at the very least...]
It sounds as if this place needs all of the help it can get... [Linhardt shakes his head.] Go off and deal with those two, then. I'll stay in here until you return, then.
[...]
Don't get yourself too injured, now.
[And with that, he'll go over to Deirdre while Hubert likely goes off to deal with the disasters. Hubert certainly isn't wrong about her being competent; she seems to utilize staves to produce her magic, which is something Linhardt is curious about. They wind up talking while she takes care of his injuries; she doesn't apparently remember a lot about her own world, but she answers many of the questions he has about Askr easily, and she's got the bedside manner of a saint, he's certain. Working with her might not be so bad.
...It helps that he and she have a healthy interest in magic, which--once Linhardt is all healed up (though with orders not to do anything too strenuous for the next few days; something he's all too happy to oblige), Hubert will likely hear them both talking about magic nerdery. Linhardt's talking about crests, and Deirdre's talking about various light magic tomes, and it's just Nerd Central here.]
[Linhardt's words earn a smirk from Hubert before he departs to go deal with the dumbasses and whatever drama that follows from their stupid fight today.
It does take him awhile to get them to settle and to report to the Askr royals and Anna, and even when he's done with that he has several other tasks to attend to before he can return to see Linhardt. It's no more frustrating than usual - even with Gangrel and Iago being aggressively themselves - but somehow he feels impatient to return to the infirmary.
He does finally return, and Hubert pauses in the doorway for a moment to hear their discussion. He's spoken with Deirdre a few times about the magic she's familiar with, though most of the differences between their worlds goes over his head simply because he doesn't have any experience with faith magic. Linhardt can probably appreciate the differences far more than he can, and while he doesn't really wish to interrupt, Linhardt will have plenty of time to speak to Deirdre.
So he enters, nodding to both of them in greeting.]
I trust the two of you have been enjoying yourselves?
[The two of them look over at Hubert when he walks in; Deirdre smiles when she sees him (though she's definitely looking trying to see if he got injured), but even Linhardt seems to be in a good mood upon seeing Hubert.]
Indeed, we have. I must confess, I didn't expect there to be such differences in the magic wielded between different worlds...it sets my curiosity alight, I must admit.
Perhaps Askr has something here for me after all.
[Linhardt gets up, wincing a bit before Deirdre holds a hand out to steady him. He gives a small thanks, before looking to Hubert.]
I'm under strict orders from Deirdre to rest, and not strain myself for the next few days. So, I suppose I'll have some time to go over and read through whatever library this place has...
[...Deirdre is kind of giving Linhardt a Look. That's not resting!!! Even if she can't really judge, he needs to not be moving about!!]
[He notices Deirdre's glance and shakes his head; don't worry, he's perfectly fine. For as obstinate and obnoxious as those two are, they usually don't come to physical blows very often, and there's only ever been one time he was injured in the crossfire.]
You need to be careful. You're free to examine the library, but don't overdo it.
[Hubert considers for a moment before offering Linhardt his arm.]
I'll escort you back to your room and show you where the library is. Is that acceptable?
[Linhardt almost rolls his eyes at Hubert when he lectures him--really, it's just the library, it's not like he's going to die on the way there!! It'll be fine!
...But then Hubert offers Linhardt his arm and he pauses for a moment. It's strange, really, and Linhardt's expression is unreadable as he contemplates it for a moment, but...
Well, he's going to take Hubert's arm, then. He'll try to ignore the strange things taking root in his chest all at once.]
Very well, that much is acceptable. Let's be on our way, then.
[It earns a smirk from him and off we go! He's careful to move slow so Linhardt can lean on him if necessary; there's no sense in pushing Linhardt too hard.
As they walk, Hubert points out the important rooms - the dining hall, the kitchen, the training grounds - and he comes to a stop before the library.]
Garreg Mach's library is certainly impressive, but this one has the advantage of collecting tomes from many different worlds.
[There aren't many people in here now, but it is a massive library.]
The organization certainly needs some work, but I'm sure you can find all you need when it comes to magic in here.
[Linhardt...well, to his credit he tries not to lean too much, if mostly out of stubborn pride--he doesn't need to be coddled, after all. But there's something comfortable about holding onto Hubert like this, something that's...strangely like home.
Maybe he just misses the Monastery.
Linhardt nods as Hubert shows him around the castle; there's certainly quite a bit here, but predictably, Linhardt lights up when he sees the library. There's enough books in here to last him a lifetime and more, and Linhardt's eyes are as wide as saucers. There's so much to read in here, it's almost intoxicating--]
There's so many wonderful things in here...oh, I may find it in me to spend my entir--!
[--Hey!! No!! He wants to look! Of course Linhardt doesn't get the chance to properly tug back, because he's a noodle, but he is absolutely pouting.]
You're simply unfair. I wanted to peruse just a touch...
There will be plenty of time for you to read everything in the library. For now, Deirdre told you to rest.
[And rest Linhardt shall!! Hubert leads him further down the hallway and then down a corridor to a set of rooms. These seem to be only slightly larger than the monastery dorm rooms, and when Hubert finally opens one of the doors, it's rather obvious why.
Each of the commanders within the army is granted their own room, and Hubert is no exception. Sure, the accommodations aren't fantastic, but privacy is appreciated. The furniture's been moved in here to have a second bed placed in, though that one's a bit smaller. The rest of the room is exactly as pristine as one would expect of Hubert, and there's no decorations to speak of. It would almost seem empty if not for the second bed.]
You'll be staying with me for the time being. I thought this would be better than shoving you in a room full of strangers.
[Not that he thinks Linhardt would have any trouble sleeping, but they'd probably just let him sleep the whole day and that's clearly unacceptable.]
[Y'all are so rude!! It's like you're all out to ensure he can't enjoy his life to the fullest...
Still, Linhardt doesn't really respond with much more than a pout--yeah, yeah, he gets it. He certainly hopes that whatever accommodations the Askrans have seen fit to give the outsiders are at least a bed comfortable enough to take a nice, long nap in...
So needless to say, he's surprised when Hubert opens the door to a room that looks so...sparse. Is this it? Well, then again maybe it makes sense, the drama queens are probably taking up half the budget, but then Hubert speaks again and...]
...Well, I certainly won't deny that having sharing a room with someone familiar will be better than potentially sharing a room with anyone who is loud.
[This room's as empty as the grave...how is he gonna be entertained in here..........why didn't hubert let him go to the library...........................]
I'm surprised you keep this room so...empty, however. It looks as if you've only recently moved in.
[...yeah, he's gonna bring it up--]
But-- [Linhardt yawns a bit.] I suppose that isn't a problem. I think this arrangement will prove better than any alternatives. This does look like a nice, quiet place to sleep...
[And also the various drama queens are taking up half the budget...]
Focus on resting for now and we'll see about the library tomorrow.
[It isn't a long walk, but he'd still prefer to keep an eye on Linhardt anyway. It isn't as though no one would help him if he collapsed, but Hubert would rather take care of it himself.
...It's probably because he hasn't seen anyone else from home in so long.]
Perhaps you should. It must be so insufferably boring in here for you.
[...]
And it's bound to be for me as well.
[...That wasn't a slip-up at all, Linhardt has no idea what you're talking about, he's just gonna separate and go flop face first on his new bed and--oh. That's...actually comfy enough, at least. The landing was only a bit painful, but he turns himself over easily enough and lies face up on the bed and stares at Hubert a bit.]
I see...well, do try not to overwork yourself. I imagine the more dramatic members of this castle could stand to do some work...
[...says the laziest man in all of the worlds, but he digresses, you better let him sleep tomorrow, asshole--
Still, the question gets Linhardt to pause. Honestly, he could really use something to curl up with--an extra blanket, a pillow, something because he's bound to toss and turn without it, but he doesn't need Hubert knowing about his stupid habits. Or the fact that he needs a stuffed animal...
...s-shut up, okay--]
Would it be too much to ask for some light reading material?
[...Okay, that's a bit wry, at the very least.]
But...I suppose I would not mind an extra pillow. If you would be so inclined.
[The first part gets a wry smirk from him; he's entirely in agreement, although they are occasionally useful without being prodded into it. The fact that Linhardt is suggesting this isn't lost on him either.
At that, though...]
Of course. I'll be back in a moment.
[It takes him a few minutes, actually. But Hubert does return, carrying a couple of extra pillows and blankets.]
Here you are. Oh, and...
[A book! It's a relatively thin one, but it is about healing magic and staves from a place called Ylisse.]
[Linhardt is only a little surprised when it takes Hubert more than the moment he promised; Hubert likely got sucked into another task and forgot, he's sure. Just as Linhardt's about to try and make himself comfortable, though, Hubert comes back in and Linhardt perks when he sees the extra pillows and blankets. That's...more than he asked for, and he actually has to admit that's really nice?
But just as Linhardt's about to say something about that, the most important thing gets revealed and his eyes light up.]
Ah--! You truly did go out of your way for me, didn't you?
[...he actually sounds like he's having a feeling, but yes, he'll gladly take that book and nod his head.]
Yes, of course. I'll be asleep like a good infant, I promise.
[...]
Thank you, Hubert. I do appreciate this.
[...he made an attempt at sounding like a normal person who knows what emotions are instead of. you know. an alien. he's at least smiling???]
[A poor excuse, but he doubts Linhardt will call him out on it now that he has a book to entertain himself with.]
Don't mention it. As I said, I'll be back later; goodnight, Linhardt.
[And that's... sort of nice, if he allows himself to stop and think about it. It's nice to see Linhardt again. It's nice that Linhardt's here. It's nice that Linhardt's expressing thanks like a normal person.
But Hubert doesn't have time to stop and think about ridiculous things like that, so he simply doesn't.]
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But that's to be expected; he is here without Lady Edelgard, after all. Without her, Hubert has had to find a place for himself within the ranks of Askr's army.
It wasn't easy at first. His loyalty always will belong to Lady Edelgard, but for the time being he can serve Askr. There isn't any way to return home - not willingly, at least. It seems to happen at random, and so he has no choice but to make himself useful. He certainly could be one of the layabouts who does little for the army, but Hubert has never done well being idle. So he works, and he fights, and he strategizes, all to bring a victory in a war he has no reason to care about.
Askr has been locked in a conflict with Embla for a long time now. Veronica, princess of Embla, commands troops that she summoned from other worlds as well - but unlike those summoned to Askr, the ones summoned to serve Embla are more or less forced into service. Breaking their contract is possible, but it isn't always a sure thing. Those they are able to free usually come willingly to join the Askr forces. Askr isn't much better as far as Hubert's concerned - they're still pulling people from different worlds to serve them in a war none of the summoned have any reason to care about, but they at least give their summoned the option to do nothing for the war effort. It's not much, but it is more freedom than the Embla forces allow.
That's the role Hubert has fallen into. Dark mages are surprisingly common here - it seems other worlds have quite a few of them - but strategists aren't. There are certainly a few here, and more often than not any meeting with all of them in the same room quickly leads into a fight over ethics and tactics, but it's the role he's carved out for himself here, and one he doesn't really mind all that much. It keeps him busy, it allows him to prove himself both on and off the battlefield, and he's been given a command position as a reward. It's nice to be able to put his tactical knowledge into use on the field, and his usual team works well with him.
Well, sort of. He prefers the mobility of mounted units to compliment his own rather lackluster speed, but being stuck working with Prince Berkut drives him up a wall and the dislike is entirely mutual. The two are at each others' throats more often than they really should be, but they can and often do work well together on the battlefield. At least, before Hubert gained a position of command; now Berkut seems less likely than ever to actually listen. Still, he can always count on Beruka to be nearby, and she can usually swoop in to rescue him in dire situations, although he will never, ever get on the back of a wyvern. Thankfully, she hadn't questioned him at all about his insistence on keeping his feet firmly on the ground and not on the back of an unpredictable, scaly beast likely to drop him mid-flight.
So while things aren't exactly ideal, Hubert manages to stay busy and he's dealing with the changes as well as he can. He does enjoy the battles against Embla that he gets to command and take part in, and today's was no exception.
...Mostly. It's certainly a bit different with a familiar face on the field.
In all of his time in Askr, Hubert has never seen another person from Fódlan. He'd heard of a brutally strong young man with a lance that others had fought in the Emblan forces, but he's never personally seen anyone else familiar. That's certainly changed today, however, as his forces clashed with Embla's, and more importantly Linhardt.
If he were to pick a classmate to arrive here, it would obviously be Lady Edelgard. But if she were not an option, he'd likely choose Petra or maybe Dorothea, if he was feeling particularly generous. Linhardt would not even be a consideration, for many reasons. But after so long of being alone here, he can't help but feel a spark of something that feels dangerously close to relief at seeing a familiar face, even on the wrong side of the battle.
Their forces clash, his tactics prove superior, and Embla's forces withdraw. It's not a particularly dangerous engagement, but Beruka's already retreating with their other allies to tend to their injuries. Hubert's own are exceptionally minor, and more importantly, there's a familiar face here with a severed contract to deal with.]
Linhardt. [His voice is - as always - perfectly controlled, betraying nothing. His expression does a good job of covering whatever emotion is struggling to make itself known as well.] You're no longer in service to Embla.
[He's not entirely sure how their contracts work, and he's never personally seen what happens when someone's freed from it. But Linhardt's still here, so he must be free to make his own decisions now.
Hubert holds out a hand.]
Come with me. We'll heal your injuries, and you'll have the freedom to decide what to do next. You won't be forced to fight again.
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It's a harsh thing, really. Veronica allows him no rest, and it's only hurting her army to keep driving them to their own extinction by barely allowing them any rest. He's brought it up to her once before; that maybe if she allowed her army a moment's respite, she wouldn't lose so many of the so-called 'Heroes' that she's forced into her service.
She threatens to rip out his tongue for the slight and he thinks better of speaking up again.
And that's just been his life for the past month. Walking on eggshells, being entirely too tired of any of this bullshit, and having more bags under his eyes than he's ever had in his life. Linhardt's honestly not surprised when Veronica tells him to take the battlefield; she's got plenty of other heroes she can summon, but there's no doubt in his mind that this mission is going to end in failure.
It ends up all but confirmed when he sees Hubert among the Askran's number, and despite putting up a good fight with the staff he's been provided, their forces prove victorious and his contract is severed entirely. Linhardt's not sure what to make of it at first, really; it's strangely freeing to not be under some sort of contract, that he can finally get a goddamn nap in, but--
Oh. Hubert's speaking to him. Linhardt rubs his eyes a bit before looking up at Hubert, tilting his head briefly before getting up from the ground.]
That much feels obvious. I suppose I should thank you for getting rid of that insufferably compulsive urge to serve that princess...
[...Yeah, it's all too obvious that Linhardt does not like Veronica. Still, Hubert's next words get a bit of a headtilt from him, but...]
I suppose it's better than laying on the ground for a while. I'll go with you, then.
[He'll walk over to Hubert and start walking with him when he starts walking. Even so, Linhardt speaks up while they walk.]
I wasn't expecting to see you here, Hubert. Did they force you into their service as well?
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As Linhardt falls into step beside him, Hubert considers his words.]
No. They did summon me to this world, but it seems as though they have no control over who they summon, and they allowed me to simply remain provided for in the castle.
[He could have spent his days doing absolutely nothing, but it's probably no surprise that Hubert didn't take that route.]
I don't have a contract binding me to them. While their methods are questionable, they at least aren't forcing us into servitude.
[That would have agitated him greatly, and he finds himself once again glad that he wasn't summoned by Embla.]
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[...]
But I do suppose that given how incompetent Veronica is, they have plenty of resources to afford to provide for all of the people they misplace. That is a point in the Askran's favor, at least.
[JESUS, LIN. THAT WOMAN HAS A FAMILY???
Linhardt yawns a bit and rubs at his eyes, but he keeps pace with Hubert easily. Even if Hubert isn't exactly the first person he'd like to see from home, there is something strangely...homey, about having someone from the monastery here in this world. It's strange, really. Linhardt doesn't exactly like Hubert to begin with, but there's something strange and almost warm about the realization that he isn't alone.
It's strange. He'll have to research it later.]
It does seem like you've kept yourself busy while you're here, however. [y'all kinda crushed his ghb] I'm surprised that they would allow an outsider in such a position of command, but I imagine they can't argue with the results at all...how long have you been here? And who were the people you were working with?
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Linhardt's words get him to consider for a moment before answering.]
I've been here nearly six months. In that time, I've been making myself useful; there aren't many with talents in strategy, so all of us that are skilled have been granted permission to lead our own units. The people here with me today are some of the ones who often serve with me.
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[That at least makes sense; if anyone out of them all could be trusted to become a tactician, it would be Hubert or Edelgard. It sounds like they've been utilizing his talents well. Certainly better than his own were, at any rate.]
It sounds as is the Askrans know how to utilize those who are willing to work for them well, at any rate. [It looks like they're getting close to the rest of the group, at least, which is good; he doesn't want to walk another step after that beatdown.] ...I suppose I'll try to see if there may be anything I can do to assist. Once I've had the chance to get a good nap in, of course.
[Linhardt chances a look at Hubert then, looking his fellow alumni over.]
You might want to rest as well. [...] Unless you've been electing to work yourself to the point of exhaustion, again.
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[There's no reason to push Linhardt here. If he wants to nap, then he can nap. If he wants to do nothing all day long, he's free to do that. If he'd rather research crests... well, he's out of luck, but perhaps he'll find something else to focus on and study, and that's fine too.
Ultimately, Linhardt's presence here has no impact on Lady Edelgard, and that means he's free to do as he wants. Should Lady Edelgard arrive then perhaps Hubert will change his mind, but for now... Well, there isn't any reason to try to force Linhardt into being useful. Besides, he could certainly use a break after being forced to deal with Veronica.
The second part gets him to glance over and smirk.]
I can assure you that I haven't been overworking myself.
[...Okay, that might not be entirely accurate, but given his definition of "overworking", he isn't. He doesn't push himself nearly as hard here because - once again - this isn't for Lady Edelgard. There is nothing he can do to hasten his return home, otherwise he would be working to the point of exhaustion. But since there isn't any way to return, he's simply keeping busy. Very busy, but Hubert has never done well with being idle.]
Your first stop is with the healers; you're free to rest for as long as you like after that.
[C'mon, Linhardt, you're getting patched up first!!]
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[...Ugh, he really is going to be needed here. Curse his halfway functioning empathy, he was genuinely tempted to slack off in the castle forever, but uuuugh, how he has to try...
Nevertheless, Linhardt nods at Hubert's assertion--and Linhardt at least believes him. This would be another story entirely if Edelgard were here, but it does at least look like Hubert has been resting as needed. Well, as much as Hubert can, anyway.]
Good. I imagine you wouldn't want to go back to Edelgard's side in a state of disarray. But yes, yes, let's visit the healers...
[They're probably going to come upon the healers soon, and...well, Linhardt actually stops and stares at the bunch of them once he catches sight of them. There's...okay, there's a woman there who looks like she just climbed out of a tree, but then there's the two gaudy disasters here...
Linhardt looks to Hubert, incredulously.]
These are your healers?
[...HE SUDDENLY SEES WHY YOU NEED HELP, BUT SHOULD HE REALLY BE TRUSTING ANY OF THEM???]
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As you can see, the Askr army is an absolute mess.
[He's so done. He's just. So done. He's not even going to try to figure out what those two are fighting about or try to put a stop to them, because neither of them will listen and they both get really annoying when anyone tries to boss them around. So instead, Hubert gestures to the woman first.]
This is Deirdre, the only sane person here. She's an excellent healer and usually ends up doing the majority of the work. Without her, this army would undoubtedly fall apart.
[Next up is the redhead in the wild outfit.]
Gangrel, king of a land called Plegia. He prefers fighting, but he's one of the few among us who can heal. His personality is exactly as awful as his taste in fashion.
[And finally he gestures to the masked man who is... currently hexing Gangrel to force him to stop laughing, that's fine, probably.]
Iago. He's another tactician, so he occasionally commands his own forces. He'd rather be doing that than healing. He's a dark mage from a land called Nohr.
[and he's absolutely giving us dark mages a bad rep—
Anyway, Hubert turns back to Linhardt and completely ignores Iago warping away while Gangrel... gives chase since he doesn't have the ability to warp, this is just your standard idiocy as far as he's concerned.]
Deirdre will take care of any injuries you have, and will answer what questions she can until I return. I have a few things to tend to.
[...]
And I suppose I should stop Gangrel from murdering Iago, although it is what he'd deserve.
[he suffers so much, lin.]
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...And then Iago warps away and Gangrel gives chase, and Linhardt is trying really hard not to sigh in kind. Still, he'll nod his head at the very least...]
It sounds as if this place needs all of the help it can get... [Linhardt shakes his head.] Go off and deal with those two, then. I'll stay in here until you return, then.
[...]
Don't get yourself too injured, now.
[And with that, he'll go over to Deirdre while Hubert likely goes off to deal with the disasters. Hubert certainly isn't wrong about her being competent; she seems to utilize staves to produce her magic, which is something Linhardt is curious about. They wind up talking while she takes care of his injuries; she doesn't apparently remember a lot about her own world, but she answers many of the questions he has about Askr easily, and she's got the bedside manner of a saint, he's certain. Working with her might not be so bad.
...It helps that he and she have a healthy interest in magic, which--once Linhardt is all healed up (though with orders not to do anything too strenuous for the next few days; something he's all too happy to oblige), Hubert will likely hear them both talking about magic nerdery. Linhardt's talking about crests, and Deirdre's talking about various light magic tomes, and it's just Nerd Central here.]
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It does take him awhile to get them to settle and to report to the Askr royals and Anna, and even when he's done with that he has several other tasks to attend to before he can return to see Linhardt. It's no more frustrating than usual - even with Gangrel and Iago being aggressively themselves - but somehow he feels impatient to return to the infirmary.
He does finally return, and Hubert pauses in the doorway for a moment to hear their discussion. He's spoken with Deirdre a few times about the magic she's familiar with, though most of the differences between their worlds goes over his head simply because he doesn't have any experience with faith magic. Linhardt can probably appreciate the differences far more than he can, and while he doesn't really wish to interrupt, Linhardt will have plenty of time to speak to Deirdre.
So he enters, nodding to both of them in greeting.]
I trust the two of you have been enjoying yourselves?
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Indeed, we have. I must confess, I didn't expect there to be such differences in the magic wielded between different worlds...it sets my curiosity alight, I must admit.
Perhaps Askr has something here for me after all.
[Linhardt gets up, wincing a bit before Deirdre holds a hand out to steady him. He gives a small thanks, before looking to Hubert.]
I'm under strict orders from Deirdre to rest, and not strain myself for the next few days. So, I suppose I'll have some time to go over and read through whatever library this place has...
[...Deirdre is kind of giving Linhardt a Look. That's not resting!!! Even if she can't really judge, he needs to not be moving about!!]
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You need to be careful. You're free to examine the library, but don't overdo it.
[Hubert considers for a moment before offering Linhardt his arm.]
I'll escort you back to your room and show you where the library is. Is that acceptable?
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...But then Hubert offers Linhardt his arm and he pauses for a moment. It's strange, really, and Linhardt's expression is unreadable as he contemplates it for a moment, but...
Well, he's going to take Hubert's arm, then. He'll try to ignore the strange things taking root in his chest all at once.]
Very well, that much is acceptable. Let's be on our way, then.
[Tally ho, Hubie!!!]
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As they walk, Hubert points out the important rooms - the dining hall, the kitchen, the training grounds - and he comes to a stop before the library.]
Garreg Mach's library is certainly impressive, but this one has the advantage of collecting tomes from many different worlds.
[There aren't many people in here now, but it is a massive library.]
The organization certainly needs some work, but I'm sure you can find all you need when it comes to magic in here.
[...C'mon, we're still going to your room!!]
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Maybe he just misses the Monastery.
Linhardt nods as Hubert shows him around the castle; there's certainly quite a bit here, but predictably, Linhardt lights up when he sees the library. There's enough books in here to last him a lifetime and more, and Linhardt's eyes are as wide as saucers. There's so much to read in here, it's almost intoxicating--]
There's so many wonderful things in here...oh, I may find it in me to spend my entir--!
[--Hey!! No!! He wants to look! Of course Linhardt doesn't get the chance to properly tug back, because he's a noodle, but he is absolutely pouting.]
You're simply unfair. I wanted to peruse just a touch...
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There will be plenty of time for you to read everything in the library. For now, Deirdre told you to rest.
[And rest Linhardt shall!! Hubert leads him further down the hallway and then down a corridor to a set of rooms. These seem to be only slightly larger than the monastery dorm rooms, and when Hubert finally opens one of the doors, it's rather obvious why.
Each of the commanders within the army is granted their own room, and Hubert is no exception. Sure, the accommodations aren't fantastic, but privacy is appreciated. The furniture's been moved in here to have a second bed placed in, though that one's a bit smaller. The rest of the room is exactly as pristine as one would expect of Hubert, and there's no decorations to speak of. It would almost seem empty if not for the second bed.]
You'll be staying with me for the time being. I thought this would be better than shoving you in a room full of strangers.
[Not that he thinks Linhardt would have any trouble sleeping, but they'd probably just let him sleep the whole day and that's clearly unacceptable.]
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Still, Linhardt doesn't really respond with much more than a pout--yeah, yeah, he gets it. He certainly hopes that whatever accommodations the Askrans have seen fit to give the outsiders are at least a bed comfortable enough to take a nice, long nap in...
So needless to say, he's surprised when Hubert opens the door to a room that looks so...sparse. Is this it? Well, then again maybe it makes sense, the drama queens are probably taking up half the budget, but then Hubert speaks again and...]
...Well, I certainly won't deny that having sharing a room with someone familiar will be better than potentially sharing a room with anyone who is loud.
[This room's as empty as the grave...how is he gonna be entertained in here..........why didn't hubert let him go to the library...........................]
I'm surprised you keep this room so...empty, however. It looks as if you've only recently moved in.
[...yeah, he's gonna bring it up--]
But-- [Linhardt yawns a bit.] I suppose that isn't a problem. I think this arrangement will prove better than any alternatives. This does look like a nice, quiet place to sleep...
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I've never been one for decorating.
[And also the various drama queens are taking up half the budget...]
Focus on resting for now and we'll see about the library tomorrow.
[It isn't a long walk, but he'd still prefer to keep an eye on Linhardt anyway. It isn't as though no one would help him if he collapsed, but Hubert would rather take care of it himself.
...It's probably because he hasn't seen anyone else from home in so long.]
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Perhaps you should. It must be so insufferably boring in here for you.
[...]
And it's bound to be for me as well.
[...That wasn't a slip-up at all, Linhardt has no idea what you're talking about, he's just gonna separate and go flop face first on his new bed and--oh. That's...actually comfy enough, at least. The landing was only a bit painful, but he turns himself over easily enough and lies face up on the bed and stares at Hubert a bit.]
What do you intend on doing, now?
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I do have some more work to attend to before I can sleep this evening, but I should be back in a couple of hours at the most.
[It's late, but not too late. So he won't be in bed at a decent hour, but it's more sleep than he's used to getting back home, so that's something.]
Perhaps I'll be generous and allow you to sleep in tomorrow morning.
[It's dry, but obviously teasing.]
Is there anything else you need before you sleep?
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I see...well, do try not to overwork yourself. I imagine the more dramatic members of this castle could stand to do some work...
[...says the laziest man in all of the worlds, but he digresses, you better let him sleep tomorrow, asshole--
Still, the question gets Linhardt to pause. Honestly, he could really use something to curl up with--an extra blanket, a pillow, something because he's bound to toss and turn without it, but he doesn't need Hubert knowing about his stupid habits. Or the fact that he needs a stuffed animal...
...s-shut up, okay--]
Would it be too much to ask for some light reading material?
[...Okay, that's a bit wry, at the very least.]
But...I suppose I would not mind an extra pillow. If you would be so inclined.
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At that, though...]
Of course. I'll be back in a moment.
[It takes him a few minutes, actually. But Hubert does return, carrying a couple of extra pillows and blankets.]
Here you are. Oh, and...
[A book! It's a relatively thin one, but it is about healing magic and staves from a place called Ylisse.]
I trust you won't still be awake when I return?
[you've gotta rest, mister!!!]
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But just as Linhardt's about to say something about that, the most important thing gets revealed and his eyes light up.]
Ah--! You truly did go out of your way for me, didn't you?
[...he actually sounds like he's having a feeling, but yes, he'll gladly take that book and nod his head.]
Yes, of course. I'll be asleep like a good infant, I promise.
[...]
Thank you, Hubert. I do appreciate this.
[...he made an attempt at sounding like a normal person who knows what emotions are instead of. you know. an alien. he's at least smiling???]
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[A poor excuse, but he doubts Linhardt will call him out on it now that he has a book to entertain himself with.]
Don't mention it. As I said, I'll be back later; goodnight, Linhardt.
[And that's... sort of nice, if he allows himself to stop and think about it. It's nice to see Linhardt again. It's nice that Linhardt's here. It's nice that Linhardt's expressing thanks like a normal person.
But Hubert doesn't have time to stop and think about ridiculous things like that, so he simply doesn't.]
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