[Ah, there's Linhardt. It looks like he even got dressed up properly for this today, which isn't really a surprise given how everyone's been going on and on about how this is the formal event of the year but...
Somehow Hubert hadn't exactly anticipated that seeing Linhardt dressed up so nicely would leave him so tongue-tied. He manages a nod at first, then pauses, replaying Linhardt's words in his head, and tries very hard not to grimace.]
No, you did not. [What a strong start.] I... am glad you're here.
[Sure, stumbling over his words in such an ineloquent way likely would be an accurate portrayal of someone deeply in love with his boyfriend, but there's acting awestruck and whatever this is. This is just embarrassing. He can feel himself flushing.
So he forces his gaze away as he clears his throat, desperately looking for something to distract himself with.]
Shall we take a seat?
[Somewhere away from everyone else?? So maybe he can regain the slightest bit of composure??]
[Ah, and there goes Hubert. He's settled into his role quite well, if Linhardt says so himself; he seems so genuinely tongue-tied that it's hilarious, honestly. And yet, Linhardt can't bring himself to laugh. Because it goes against his role as a boyfriend, and...
Well, Linhardt can't stop smiling after seeing Hubert's reaction. And why would he stop? It's causing that strange, warm, flooding feeling again, and combined with staring at Hubert, Linhardt's gaze feels like it's gone soft.]
As am I.
[Yes, even Hubert's flush--it's...nice, really. It's nice that Hubert can play his role so well, enough that it tugs at even his own heart! There's nothing else to it, after all, right? Right.
...And yet Linhardt almost feels saddened when Hubert's gaze tears away. But ah, maybe he's just got a frog in his throat. It happens to the best of them.]
Yes, of course. Do lead the way, won't you?
[Linhardt holds out his hand practically on instinct at this point. Let's be off!!]
[O-Oh. Yes, of course it makes sense for them to hold hands - it isn't as though it's the first time. They just... usually aren't so openly in public and walking together like this, that's clearly what's causing the blush to darken and his heart to hammer like this, right? Hubert isn't one for the spotlight - so putting on a performance like this in public where anyone can see them is what's causing the sudden spike in his pulse. It must be that. What else could it be?
Still, even as he's debating on that, he wastes no time in taking Linhardt's hand. He's wearing black gloves tonight, but there's still something almost relaxing about taking Linhardt's hand like this. He leads the way easily, and by the time they reach one of the tables in the back away from the majority of the others, Hubert's calmed down significantly.]
You look nice.
[A bit simplistic, but it's best to continue playing their parts where they still have the possibility of being overheard, and no one would expect Hubert to be particularly eloquent about this sort of thing anyway, right? Right. It isn't at all because he can't come up with a better way to word it.]
Though I must admit, I wouldn't have been surprised if you simply showed up in your uniform.
[Ah, there we go, that's a little better. The teasing feels a bit more natural, anyway.]
[Hubert takes his hand easily, and it allows Linhardt to see that new set of gloves. Oh, they're...nice isn't the proper word for them, is it? Lovely? Too much. Wonderful? Hm, close enough. They really do look nice on Hubert, though, and as he leads Linhardt away he finds himself staring at them. They're strangely transfixing, and it's only by the time they've found a seat away from the majority of the crowd that Linhardt can tear his eyes away.
Hubert's...well, as awkward as ever; Linhardt still finds himself smiling at the compliment, though.]
Why, thank you.
[It's not perfect, but it's fine. It's believable and that's what matters and--hey!!! Linhardt's eyes widen slightly in surprise at the teasing, but he finds himself chuckling and only slightly pouting.]
--I'm wounded, Hubert, simply wounded. [There's almost something indignant in Linhardt's look, as he speaks up again.] You truly think that I wouldn't put a little effort in to look nice for you?
[...Sure it was Caspar's idea, but there's still people here and Caspar doesn't need an inflated ego--]
...Though, if I had known you were dressing yourself up for the occasion, perhaps I would have. [...okay he failed at that, but--] I wouldn't want to take the attention from you. Such fancy attire suits you much better, after all; you look...wonderful.
[It's only slightly teasing, but it feels...easy to fall into this. Even if it is remarkably honest, coming from Linhardt.]
[Linhardt's words earn a scoff and a roll of his eyes - primarily for the compliments, but also for the indication that dressing up was not exactly Linhardt's doing. Thanks, Caspar??]
You flatter me.
[It's become all too common of a retort over the last month, and it's so easy to fall back into it. Still, Hubert is smiling, even if the expression's a bit too sharp for the occasion. It's the closest he gets, anyway.]
You should know that my place is in the shadows; the only reason I'm not wearing black is because Lady Edelgard insisted on this one.
[So don't worry, Linhardt, you're not alone in sucking at this???]
[It's an easy retort, sure, but it almost makes Linhardt competitive. Like he wants to flatter Hubert further, and that's an unusual feeling...better write that one down too and analyze it!!]
Is that right? [Linhardt can't help but chuckle a bit at that much.] You'll have to pass along my compliments, when you next get the chance. She certainly took to the task of dressing up someone as ghoulish as you splendidly.
[It's teasing, but there is perhaps a bit of genuineness there. He's kind of glad he's not alone in sucking, and in a way, it makes Linhardt...happy. Genuinely so.]
...It truly is so nice to be away from the bulk of the hustle and bustle, however. I'm not surprised that so many people have shown up, but it truly is quite overwhelming...
[The first part gets another scoff from him, but thankfully Linhardt moves on.]
It sounds as though some of them have been eagerly awaiting this dance for months now.
[Can't relate, tbh.]
We shouldn't need to remain here for too long; I doubt most of them will notice if we vanish eventually.
[It's primarily because he doubts Linhardt wants to be here any more than he does, but also partially because sneaking off to the Goddess Tower will ensure any doubts about their "relationship" are eliminated. Caspar may be totally sold, but that doesn't mean everyone else is. And that is the point of all of this, right? To make sure everyone believes that they're dating so Linhardt could win his bet and prove Caspar wrong.
...Something about that doesn't exactly sound right, but you know what, Hubert isn't going to question it right now.]
Really...it just seems like entirely too much of a bother. I'll never understand people and their love for these events...
[same hat, man. same hat.
Linhardt's gaze does perk up when Hubert suggests ditching eventually, though. He's almost a little saddened; surely a turn around the dance floor would sell their act a lot better. But if Hubert's suggesting they go where Linhardt thinks he's suggesting...it'll be perfect. Honestly, he wants to escape now, and he's practically jittering in place and ready to go--]
Well, hopefully we don't need to remain here for much longer, then. If you're thinking of going where I believe you are, that will certainly be a far better time than this utterly crowded mess.
[Honestly, Linhardt is more than ready at Hubert's leave, but it is tempting to ask for that dance...but...maybe not here. Sure it'd be a publicity stunt that will absolutely prove Caspar wrong, and Linhardt has never really understood all of the talk about dancing being so 'precious'.
Still, Linhardt hesitates a bit. He doesn't understand why this is so hard to ask; it's just a dance. A boring little dance that they'll probably be terrible at, Hubert can laugh at, and then they can get to something actually enjoyable. What's causing this hesitation...?]
...Did you have anything else you wished to do here, before we whisk ourselves away?
[Hubert nods at that; good, Linhardt's heard the rumors as well. The Goddess Tower will be an excellent place to "sneak" off to. It won't be particularly difficult to make sure someone catches sight of them, after all.
There's no sense in rushing it, though. Looking too eager would only make people suspicious. So they should spend some more time here...
And then Linhardt asks that question and Hubert looks back at him, raising an eyebrow. His initial thought is No, of course not because he isn't one for gatherings like this in the first place, and he'd really rather be anywhere but here. But...
Well, what better to sell their act than one dance? Sure, Hubert hates dancing, but he can do it. Linhardt may be lazy, but as long as they play it off well, it'll be exactly the finishing touch they need to seal their "relationship" in the eyes of their classmates and teachers. Considering that members of the Church are here as well, that will only benefit Lady Edelgard. No one would suspect Hubert is still poking into things he shouldn't if they all think he's busy doting on his "boyfriend".
With that as the obvious conclusion, it should be an easy enough idea to propose. Linhardt may balk a bit, but it will be worth it. It's just one dance.
It's just one dance. So why exactly does the thought of it make him feel so antsy?]
Perhaps we should dance once before we leave. What do you think?
[The question is easy enough to pose, but he's gone back to staring out at the crowd as he drums the fingers of one hand on the table.]
[Linhardt's expecting to be rebuffed, if quietly; maybe some sort of falsified promise about dancing in the tower that will pique someone's interest, but nothing more than that. It's not like Linhardt actually cares or anything. It would just be...nice, to see what all of the fuss is about.
But then Hubert poses the question to Linhardt, and somehow, it briefly feels like his heart has stopped. Linhardt's expression doesn't change much, but he looks at Hubert after the other man says that, blinking once, twice, thrice even. Hubert is right, isn't he? It would be just one dance. Just one simple dance, and then they could sneak off to the tower and seal the deal on their act once and for all.
...Linhardt is going to have a lot of new observations to write down in his notes, he's realizing. Linhardt's gaze stays fixed onto Hubert's averted gaze for a little too long, but even Linhardt has to avert his own gaze eventually. It's...strange, that a feeling of abject shyness would come over him. What could possibly be the cause of that? What isn't he understanding...?
It doesn't take long for Linhardt to place his own hand near where Hubert drums his fingers, though. His palm is up in an open invitation.]
...I think that would be quite nice. I am afraid that I am not quite skilled in such things, but...perhaps if you are to lead, I can follow you.
[Linhardt's face feels...warm, for some reason, and he can't look at Hubert. It's...strangely overwhelming, but Linhardt isn't deterred.]
[Perhaps he overstepped. A dance isn't precisely necessary to seal their act - if anything, it may look too over-the-top. Neither of them are the sort to want to dance, after all. He shouldn't have asked.
Why did he, come to think of it? He knows this isn't a good idea. Drawing attention to himself - in any form - is not productive and Linhardt doesn't seem like the sort of person to enjoy something like this. This isn't the best or easiest course of action for their act. So why...?
It's as the silence spans and he can feel Linhardt staring at him that it finally occurs to Hubert that maybe he asked because he was hoping Linhardt would say yes.
What an absurd idea. He hates formal affairs like this, and dancing is a pain. It's dull and lifeless repetitive motions that he's had to memorize and takes no joy in. It's an excuse to show off wealth and power, two things Hubert would greatly prefer to avoid at all costs. Formal affairs like this are exactly the sort of nobility that he hates, so why? Why does he want to engage in something so meaningless with Linhardt of all damn people, who likely won't like it less because of any symbolic reason and more because it's too much effort?
As he's trying to work that out, Linhardt's hand moves near his, causing Hubert to startle a bit and look over. An invitation...? The words catch his chest in a vicegrip, and for a long moment it's his turn to stare.]
...I do know how to lead; that was something I was taught when I was young.
[The words are mostly to fill space as he continues to stare at Linhardt, but once that's out there and his brain catches up, he takes Linhardt's hand immediately. It occurs to him briefly that being so eager about something this stupid is just as baffling as his desire to do this in the first place, but he doesn't allow himself time to think about it. Instead, he rises. A new song is starting, after all.]
[Hubert takes his hand easily and it feels like the wind has been knocked out of Linhardt. What a strange reaction he's having to something so...utterly mundane. That's definitely getting a page dedicated to finding the cause, because it isn't making sense. It's all fake, and yet this inspires such a thing.
But Hubert taking his hand brings Linhardt back to reality, and a smile manages to form on Linhardt's face. He's not sure why, but...he has a feeling this will be quite fun.]
Yes, indeed. Let us be off.
[Linhardt will get up as well; lead the way to the dance floor, Hubert.]
[It's easy to take the lead, guiding Linhardt to the dance floor and moving his free hand to rest on Linhardt's waist. The steps and rhythm are ingrained in his head and it's natural to adjust to the song and begin; his movements are a bit mechanical and stiff in nature, but his expression is softer than it usually is. Hubert's gaze keeps darting away and he has to force himself to look back at Linhardt.
There likely should be words here, but he's not entirely sure what the appropriate ones would be. Perhaps more pressingly, he's not entirely sure he could manage to get any intelligible words out right now, because it feels like something has a stranglehold on his throat. It isn't a bad feeling, which is the most baffling part of all of this. This is... nice. It's nice, despite the fact that he hates dances like this. It's nice, despite the fact that this is all an act.
It's nice, and for some reason, he doesn't want it to end.]
[Oh. Goddess above, this feels...strangely pleasant. Linhardt places his hand on Hubert's shoulder, but even with Linhardt's lacking experience and Hubert's more...mechanical experience, it's strangely nice. Hubert isn't the only one finding it hard to keep his eyes where they should be, but...
It is nice. It's causing a strange feeling to flood him, as the music runs ever onward and their dance continues. Linhardt doesn't even know what to say or do in kind, just content to follow Hubert and the rhythm of the song until their end. Oh, what he'd give for this to be an endless song so he can relish in this moment, but...why? Is it just the dance--something that Linhardt couldn't be bothered to put effort into on a good day? Or is this just how people feel when they dance with someone they supposedly love?
...Why is that word so awkward to think of, right now, even as the song nears it's conclusion? It's an observation he'll have to write down later, all of this is, but--
The song ends, and Linhardt finds he doesn't want to leave. He doesn't want to be here either, hearing the clapping of a crowd only barely over a frantic heartbeat, but--]
...I don't believe you give yourself enough credit, Hubert. You did incredibly well.
[The words are breathless, easy, and yet--Linhardt gestures with his head. Come on, this is too much, let's get the hell out.]
[There's something charming about Linhardt's reactions - but surely that's only because he's improved his acting skills quite a bit through all of this. Linhardt was never terrible at selling their act, but these reactions seem so authentic. The inability to hold his gaze, the gentle touch, the soft smile—
But of course, he's putting on the same act, so Linhardt's clearly just improved along with him. Because it is still an act, after all.
The song comes to an end and for a brief moment, Hubert entertains the idea of asking Linhardt for another one. Sure, there's no reason for it. Sure, that's just drawing more attention to themselves that they don't need. But it would be... nice. He doesn't want to stop just yet.
But Linhardt speaks up and inclines his head, and that brings Hubert back to the reality of their situation, and undoubtedly their classmates' eyes on them. He nods and leads the way; let's head outside for a moment to collect ourselves.]
It was something I was taught to do, that's all.
[...He may be turning slightly pink at the compliment, though.]
[Yes, let's go outside and escape this situation. Linhardt follows Hubert easily, doing what he can to quell the rapid beating of his heart. It's...easing some, but not nearly as much as Linhardt would be expecting that to be. Why is that? This is all just an act, and perhaps that was too much stimulus for him, but it doesn't make sense that he's still feeling it now...
It takes Hubert's words for Linhardt to realize he's become distracted, and was practically staring off into space the entire time they walked. Oh, uh, right---]
Well, you still pulled it off quite well. I think that much is worthy of praise; you needn't be embarrassed by it.
[...It's slightly teasing, but only because they're alone and Linhardt can get away with it. Besides, there's something almost...endearing about seeing Hubert like this.]
...You certainly made it more fun than I was expecting, for the effort being put in.
[That's...a little more genuine. Hm. Not sure how he feels about that, TIME TO GO BACK TO STARING OFF INTO SPACE--]
[It earns a scoff from Hubert, but he finally stops once they're in the gardens. There aren't many people here; some are on their way out (undoubtedly to the Goddess Tower) and others are milling about near the exit but none are within range to hear them.]
I had to ensure you wouldn't fall asleep on your feet, I suppose.
[It's light teasing, though. It's cool out here; it's certainly getting cold enough to risk being too cold without proper coats, but tonight is surprisingly nice. Maybe it's just because of how warm it felt in there.
It's a little easier to think out here away from everyone else, but that also makes it clear that Linhardt still isn't looking at him. This is rather awkward now that they're done dancing, he supposes... Still, something about it is... unnerving, somehow. He's not sure what it is, but it feels like something has shifted and now he's suddenly not sure how to talk to Linhardt. Which is absolutely ridiculous; nothing has changed, and he can talk to Linhardt as he always has. Why the sudden hesitation now?]
[The gardens are quite a nice place, really. Or at least they would be at any other time, but now it's just a reminder of the fact that they're alone and it's...still rather awkward to think about looking at Hubert.
Linhardt doesn't understand it. This is just an act, isn't it? Why does it feel like there's something tight over his throat, something awkward between them when this is all just a prolonged experiment? Could it be that something has shifted between them? That maybe something has caused something else to take root?
...No, that's silly, isn't it? It's all an act. Every last bit of it is, and all of this is just a result of that. A result of what they're doing, and it's nothing more than that, isn't it? It has to be, right?
If that's so, why can't he just talk to Hubert like he normally does? Or even look at him? Why does it feel so strange?]
I don't think I could have gotten very much sleep in such a loud, noisy place like that, anyway.
[Maybe if Linhardt were better at this, he'd realize that he was in over his head. Maybe if he really knew what love was, he wouldn't be having these problems. But Linhardt forces himself to look back at Hubert after saying that much, sighing and trying to just...be casual about it, because everything is certainly fine.]
So thank you for at least keeping me entertained. I couldn't possibly imagine the reaction they'd all have if you couldn't.
[Surely whatever this bizarre feeling is will pass soon enough. They're away from everyone else with no concerns about being spied on for the moment, and yet... somehow this is still just as awkward as being surrounded by people who think they're dating. If he'd realized everything was going to be this awkward after just one dance, perhaps he never would have asked in the first place.
Still, he can't just leave Linhardt's words hanging there; for all he knows, the awkwardness is solely on his end and Linhardt may not notice anything different. It's certainly possible that this is all in his head and he's overthinking it, so perhaps he needs to stop doing that.]
I doubt they'd be all that surprised. [It's fairly light, though.] It seems we've fooled them well enough by now, at least.
[Sure, there may be some of them who don't buy it, but their little show tonight must have put those doubts to rest. And if they haven't... Well, there's still the Goddess Tower.]
No, they likely wouldn't. But really, I'd much rather avoid a lecture from Edelgard, Caspar, and...well, whoever else would have words to say about such a thing.
[Linhardt chuckles a bit after saying that much. There's still so much that he doesn't understand about any of this, and why his feelings are acting up this way. But right now, they're easing, and strangely enough, it is...nice, actually, to talk to Hubert like this.]
But you are correct, I would say. They've all fallen for it like fish to a baited hook. We're certainly better at this than I would have thought.
[Not that Linhardt understands love any better after all of this. If anything, he's starting to understand it even less.]
I wouldn't have thought they'd all be this gullible.
[Okay, that's a blatant lie, he wouldn't have agreed to this in the first place if he'd thought that no one would buy it, but it's fine, Linhardt can just think he really wanted to prove Caspar wrong.]
Though I must admit, I didn't think we'd last this long either.
[Whether it was because of their acting skills being so poor, Linhardt developing some other interest to research obsessively, or Hubert needing to turn his attention elsewhere to more pressing matters; regardless, here they are still. It's almost funny that they've made it this long.]
[Okay, that gets Linhardt to chuckle outright. He looks genuinely pleased by that--definitely assuming he wanted to prove Caspar wrong alongside him, but the second observation is what's causing the bulk of it. A month, a gods forsaken month--]
Nor did I, if you want the honest truth. It really is quite funny, when half of the relationships you see around the monastery last for a week at best. And the others are a product of Sylvain's womanizing.
[in this house we drag our schoolmates]
And yet, here we are, having lasted longer than most all of them. Next thing you know, they'll be asking us when we plan to celebrate our "month-iversary" or some nonsense like that.
[That's so stupid. Anniversaries are supposed to be for years, not short term relationships!!]
[That gets a short, evil-sounding laugh from him.]
Normally I would try to argue that, but that sounds exactly like the sort of thing Dorothea would want to plan.
[Mostly because she'd find it funny and want to fluster them, but considering how quickly most relationships tend to break up... Well, a month is perhaps something worth celebrating. It probably wouldn't be if Sylvain wasn't here dragging our statistics of relationship length down, but alas.]
[...Oh gods damn it all, Hubert's right. Linhardt really can't help but make a face and groan at that.]
Isn't that supposed to be planned by the couple themselves? Really, she'd have more luck planning for Edelgard and Lorenz's eventual anniversary...
[Linhardt's honestly just whining. Entirely because it's going to require effort on his part to show up and be schmoopy if she does, but Hubert's only laid out the possibility. It's not like it'll actually happen, right???]
...But you are correct, she would. Gods, she'd make it so incredibly loud and noisy too--deeply unsuitable for the likes of us.
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Somehow Hubert hadn't exactly anticipated that seeing Linhardt dressed up so nicely would leave him so tongue-tied. He manages a nod at first, then pauses, replaying Linhardt's words in his head, and tries very hard not to grimace.]
No, you did not. [What a strong start.] I... am glad you're here.
[Sure, stumbling over his words in such an ineloquent way likely would be an accurate portrayal of someone deeply in love with his boyfriend, but there's acting awestruck and whatever this is. This is just embarrassing. He can feel himself flushing.
So he forces his gaze away as he clears his throat, desperately looking for something to distract himself with.]
Shall we take a seat?
[Somewhere away from everyone else?? So maybe he can regain the slightest bit of composure??]
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Well, Linhardt can't stop smiling after seeing Hubert's reaction. And why would he stop? It's causing that strange, warm, flooding feeling again, and combined with staring at Hubert, Linhardt's gaze feels like it's gone soft.]
As am I.
[Yes, even Hubert's flush--it's...nice, really. It's nice that Hubert can play his role so well, enough that it tugs at even his own heart! There's nothing else to it, after all, right? Right.
...And yet Linhardt almost feels saddened when Hubert's gaze tears away. But ah, maybe he's just got a frog in his throat. It happens to the best of them.]
Yes, of course. Do lead the way, won't you?
[Linhardt holds out his hand practically on instinct at this point. Let's be off!!]
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Still, even as he's debating on that, he wastes no time in taking Linhardt's hand. He's wearing black gloves tonight, but there's still something almost relaxing about taking Linhardt's hand like this. He leads the way easily, and by the time they reach one of the tables in the back away from the majority of the others, Hubert's calmed down significantly.]
You look nice.
[A bit simplistic, but it's best to continue playing their parts where they still have the possibility of being overheard, and no one would expect Hubert to be particularly eloquent about this sort of thing anyway, right? Right. It isn't at all because he can't come up with a better way to word it.]
Though I must admit, I wouldn't have been surprised if you simply showed up in your uniform.
[Ah, there we go, that's a little better. The teasing feels a bit more natural, anyway.]
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Hubert's...well, as awkward as ever; Linhardt still finds himself smiling at the compliment, though.]
Why, thank you.
[It's not perfect, but it's fine. It's believable and that's what matters and--hey!!! Linhardt's eyes widen slightly in surprise at the teasing, but he finds himself chuckling and only slightly pouting.]
--I'm wounded, Hubert, simply wounded. [There's almost something indignant in Linhardt's look, as he speaks up again.] You truly think that I wouldn't put a little effort in to look nice for you?
[...Sure it was Caspar's idea, but there's still people here and Caspar doesn't need an inflated ego--]
...Though, if I had known you were dressing yourself up for the occasion, perhaps I would have. [...okay he failed at that, but--] I wouldn't want to take the attention from you. Such fancy attire suits you much better, after all; you look...wonderful.
[It's only slightly teasing, but it feels...easy to fall into this. Even if it is remarkably honest, coming from Linhardt.]
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You flatter me.
[It's become all too common of a retort over the last month, and it's so easy to fall back into it. Still, Hubert is smiling, even if the expression's a bit too sharp for the occasion. It's the closest he gets, anyway.]
You should know that my place is in the shadows; the only reason I'm not wearing black is because Lady Edelgard insisted on this one.
[So don't worry, Linhardt, you're not alone in sucking at this???]
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Is that right? [Linhardt can't help but chuckle a bit at that much.] You'll have to pass along my compliments, when you next get the chance. She certainly took to the task of dressing up someone as ghoulish as you splendidly.
[It's teasing, but there is perhaps a bit of genuineness there. He's kind of glad he's not alone in sucking, and in a way, it makes Linhardt...happy. Genuinely so.]
...It truly is so nice to be away from the bulk of the hustle and bustle, however. I'm not surprised that so many people have shown up, but it truly is quite overwhelming...
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It sounds as though some of them have been eagerly awaiting this dance for months now.
[Can't relate, tbh.]
We shouldn't need to remain here for too long; I doubt most of them will notice if we vanish eventually.
[It's primarily because he doubts Linhardt wants to be here any more than he does, but also partially because sneaking off to the Goddess Tower will ensure any doubts about their "relationship" are eliminated. Caspar may be totally sold, but that doesn't mean everyone else is. And that is the point of all of this, right? To make sure everyone believes that they're dating so Linhardt could win his bet and prove Caspar wrong.
...Something about that doesn't exactly sound right, but you know what, Hubert isn't going to question it right now.]
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[same hat, man. same hat.
Linhardt's gaze does perk up when Hubert suggests ditching eventually, though. He's almost a little saddened; surely a turn around the dance floor would sell their act a lot better. But if Hubert's suggesting they go where Linhardt thinks he's suggesting...it'll be perfect. Honestly, he wants to escape now, and he's practically jittering in place and ready to go--]
Well, hopefully we don't need to remain here for much longer, then. If you're thinking of going where I believe you are, that will certainly be a far better time than this utterly crowded mess.
[Honestly, Linhardt is more than ready at Hubert's leave, but it is tempting to ask for that dance...but...maybe not here. Sure it'd be a publicity stunt that will absolutely prove Caspar wrong, and Linhardt has never really understood all of the talk about dancing being so 'precious'.
Still, Linhardt hesitates a bit. He doesn't understand why this is so hard to ask; it's just a dance. A boring little dance that they'll probably be terrible at, Hubert can laugh at, and then they can get to something actually enjoyable. What's causing this hesitation...?]
...Did you have anything else you wished to do here, before we whisk ourselves away?
[that's. an attempt, sure.]
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There's no sense in rushing it, though. Looking too eager would only make people suspicious. So they should spend some more time here...
And then Linhardt asks that question and Hubert looks back at him, raising an eyebrow. His initial thought is No, of course not because he isn't one for gatherings like this in the first place, and he'd really rather be anywhere but here. But...
Well, what better to sell their act than one dance? Sure, Hubert hates dancing, but he can do it. Linhardt may be lazy, but as long as they play it off well, it'll be exactly the finishing touch they need to seal their "relationship" in the eyes of their classmates and teachers. Considering that members of the Church are here as well, that will only benefit Lady Edelgard. No one would suspect Hubert is still poking into things he shouldn't if they all think he's busy doting on his "boyfriend".
With that as the obvious conclusion, it should be an easy enough idea to propose. Linhardt may balk a bit, but it will be worth it. It's just one dance.
It's just one dance. So why exactly does the thought of it make him feel so antsy?]
Perhaps we should dance once before we leave. What do you think?
[The question is easy enough to pose, but he's gone back to staring out at the crowd as he drums the fingers of one hand on the table.]
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But then Hubert poses the question to Linhardt, and somehow, it briefly feels like his heart has stopped. Linhardt's expression doesn't change much, but he looks at Hubert after the other man says that, blinking once, twice, thrice even. Hubert is right, isn't he? It would be just one dance. Just one simple dance, and then they could sneak off to the tower and seal the deal on their act once and for all.
...Linhardt is going to have a lot of new observations to write down in his notes, he's realizing. Linhardt's gaze stays fixed onto Hubert's averted gaze for a little too long, but even Linhardt has to avert his own gaze eventually. It's...strange, that a feeling of abject shyness would come over him. What could possibly be the cause of that? What isn't he understanding...?
It doesn't take long for Linhardt to place his own hand near where Hubert drums his fingers, though. His palm is up in an open invitation.]
...I think that would be quite nice. I am afraid that I am not quite skilled in such things, but...perhaps if you are to lead, I can follow you.
[Linhardt's face feels...warm, for some reason, and he can't look at Hubert. It's...strangely overwhelming, but Linhardt isn't deterred.]
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Why did he, come to think of it? He knows this isn't a good idea. Drawing attention to himself - in any form - is not productive and Linhardt doesn't seem like the sort of person to enjoy something like this. This isn't the best or easiest course of action for their act. So why...?
It's as the silence spans and he can feel Linhardt staring at him that it finally occurs to Hubert that maybe he asked because he was hoping Linhardt would say yes.
What an absurd idea. He hates formal affairs like this, and dancing is a pain. It's dull and lifeless repetitive motions that he's had to memorize and takes no joy in. It's an excuse to show off wealth and power, two things Hubert would greatly prefer to avoid at all costs. Formal affairs like this are exactly the sort of nobility that he hates, so why? Why does he want to engage in something so meaningless with Linhardt of all damn people, who likely won't like it less because of any symbolic reason and more because it's too much effort?
As he's trying to work that out, Linhardt's hand moves near his, causing Hubert to startle a bit and look over. An invitation...? The words catch his chest in a vicegrip, and for a long moment it's his turn to stare.]
...I do know how to lead; that was something I was taught when I was young.
[The words are mostly to fill space as he continues to stare at Linhardt, but once that's out there and his brain catches up, he takes Linhardt's hand immediately. It occurs to him briefly that being so eager about something this stupid is just as baffling as his desire to do this in the first place, but he doesn't allow himself time to think about it. Instead, he rises. A new song is starting, after all.]
Shall we?
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But Hubert taking his hand brings Linhardt back to reality, and a smile manages to form on Linhardt's face. He's not sure why, but...he has a feeling this will be quite fun.]
Yes, indeed. Let us be off.
[Linhardt will get up as well; lead the way to the dance floor, Hubert.]
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There likely should be words here, but he's not entirely sure what the appropriate ones would be. Perhaps more pressingly, he's not entirely sure he could manage to get any intelligible words out right now, because it feels like something has a stranglehold on his throat. It isn't a bad feeling, which is the most baffling part of all of this. This is... nice. It's nice, despite the fact that he hates dances like this. It's nice, despite the fact that this is all an act.
It's nice, and for some reason, he doesn't want it to end.]
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It is nice. It's causing a strange feeling to flood him, as the music runs ever onward and their dance continues. Linhardt doesn't even know what to say or do in kind, just content to follow Hubert and the rhythm of the song until their end. Oh, what he'd give for this to be an endless song so he can relish in this moment, but...why? Is it just the dance--something that Linhardt couldn't be bothered to put effort into on a good day? Or is this just how people feel when they dance with someone they supposedly love?
...Why is that word so awkward to think of, right now, even as the song nears it's conclusion? It's an observation he'll have to write down later, all of this is, but--
The song ends, and Linhardt finds he doesn't want to leave. He doesn't want to be here either, hearing the clapping of a crowd only barely over a frantic heartbeat, but--]
...I don't believe you give yourself enough credit, Hubert. You did incredibly well.
[The words are breathless, easy, and yet--Linhardt gestures with his head. Come on, this is too much, let's get the hell out.]
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But of course, he's putting on the same act, so Linhardt's clearly just improved along with him. Because it is still an act, after all.
The song comes to an end and for a brief moment, Hubert entertains the idea of asking Linhardt for another one. Sure, there's no reason for it. Sure, that's just drawing more attention to themselves that they don't need. But it would be... nice. He doesn't want to stop just yet.
But Linhardt speaks up and inclines his head, and that brings Hubert back to the reality of their situation, and undoubtedly their classmates' eyes on them. He nods and leads the way; let's head outside for a moment to collect ourselves.]
It was something I was taught to do, that's all.
[...He may be turning slightly pink at the compliment, though.]
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It takes Hubert's words for Linhardt to realize he's become distracted, and was practically staring off into space the entire time they walked. Oh, uh, right---]
Well, you still pulled it off quite well. I think that much is worthy of praise; you needn't be embarrassed by it.
[...It's slightly teasing, but only because they're alone and Linhardt can get away with it. Besides, there's something almost...endearing about seeing Hubert like this.]
...You certainly made it more fun than I was expecting, for the effort being put in.
[That's...a little more genuine. Hm. Not sure how he feels about that, TIME TO GO BACK TO STARING OFF INTO SPACE--]
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I had to ensure you wouldn't fall asleep on your feet, I suppose.
[It's light teasing, though. It's cool out here; it's certainly getting cold enough to risk being too cold without proper coats, but tonight is surprisingly nice. Maybe it's just because of how warm it felt in there.
It's a little easier to think out here away from everyone else, but that also makes it clear that Linhardt still isn't looking at him. This is rather awkward now that they're done dancing, he supposes... Still, something about it is... unnerving, somehow. He's not sure what it is, but it feels like something has shifted and now he's suddenly not sure how to talk to Linhardt. Which is absolutely ridiculous; nothing has changed, and he can talk to Linhardt as he always has. Why the sudden hesitation now?]
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Linhardt doesn't understand it. This is just an act, isn't it? Why does it feel like there's something tight over his throat, something awkward between them when this is all just a prolonged experiment? Could it be that something has shifted between them? That maybe something has caused something else to take root?
...No, that's silly, isn't it? It's all an act. Every last bit of it is, and all of this is just a result of that. A result of what they're doing, and it's nothing more than that, isn't it? It has to be, right?
If that's so, why can't he just talk to Hubert like he normally does? Or even look at him? Why does it feel so strange?]
I don't think I could have gotten very much sleep in such a loud, noisy place like that, anyway.
[Maybe if Linhardt were better at this, he'd realize that he was in over his head. Maybe if he really knew what love was, he wouldn't be having these problems. But Linhardt forces himself to look back at Hubert after saying that much, sighing and trying to just...be casual about it, because everything is certainly fine.]
So thank you for at least keeping me entertained. I couldn't possibly imagine the reaction they'd all have if you couldn't.
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Still, he can't just leave Linhardt's words hanging there; for all he knows, the awkwardness is solely on his end and Linhardt may not notice anything different. It's certainly possible that this is all in his head and he's overthinking it, so perhaps he needs to stop doing that.]
I doubt they'd be all that surprised. [It's fairly light, though.] It seems we've fooled them well enough by now, at least.
[Sure, there may be some of them who don't buy it, but their little show tonight must have put those doubts to rest. And if they haven't... Well, there's still the Goddess Tower.]
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[Linhardt chuckles a bit after saying that much. There's still so much that he doesn't understand about any of this, and why his feelings are acting up this way. But right now, they're easing, and strangely enough, it is...nice, actually, to talk to Hubert like this.]
But you are correct, I would say. They've all fallen for it like fish to a baited hook. We're certainly better at this than I would have thought.
[Not that Linhardt understands love any better after all of this. If anything, he's starting to understand it even less.]
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[Okay, that's a blatant lie, he wouldn't have agreed to this in the first place if he'd thought that no one would buy it, but it's fine, Linhardt can just think he really wanted to prove Caspar wrong.]
Though I must admit, I didn't think we'd last this long either.
[Whether it was because of their acting skills being so poor, Linhardt developing some other interest to research obsessively, or Hubert needing to turn his attention elsewhere to more pressing matters; regardless, here they are still. It's almost funny that they've made it this long.]
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Nor did I, if you want the honest truth. It really is quite funny, when half of the relationships you see around the monastery last for a week at best. And the others are a product of Sylvain's womanizing.
[in this house we drag our schoolmates]
And yet, here we are, having lasted longer than most all of them. Next thing you know, they'll be asking us when we plan to celebrate our "month-iversary" or some nonsense like that.
[That's so stupid. Anniversaries are supposed to be for years, not short term relationships!!]
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Normally I would try to argue that, but that sounds exactly like the sort of thing Dorothea would want to plan.
[Mostly because she'd find it funny and want to fluster them, but considering how quickly most relationships tend to break up... Well, a month is perhaps something worth celebrating. It probably wouldn't be if Sylvain wasn't here dragging our statistics of relationship length down, but alas.]
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Isn't that supposed to be planned by the couple themselves? Really, she'd have more luck planning for Edelgard and Lorenz's eventual anniversary...
[Linhardt's honestly just whining. Entirely because it's going to require effort on his part to show up and be schmoopy if she does, but Hubert's only laid out the possibility. It's not like it'll actually happen, right???]
...But you are correct, she would. Gods, she'd make it so incredibly loud and noisy too--deeply unsuitable for the likes of us.
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[Not that it'll stop her, but then they just won't show up and that will surely work out well. No one said they had to put up with it!!]
I'm sure she can put her talents to better use irritating some other couple.
[Not Lady Edelgard though, of course!!]
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