mistralxsoul

[mistralxsoul]

"You seem uncomfortable."

@mistralxsoul

"Ah-... Yeah... This sort of thing just... isn't... for me." He would go for Flynn, but... attending formal dinners really had nothing to do with him. If anything, he was going to be there for appearances for Flynn to begin with. It was tomorrow, but Yuri still had to take part in planning their day around it.

That also meant no particularly busy work. Nothing that would leave him tired or dirty. Any work he could find for the guild had to be more specific. Aside from that... they'd had to go out and get Yuri an outfit for the dinner, because he had nothing he could wear that would be "suitable". Despite Raven insisting that nobody would even notice Yuri was from the Lower Quarter when he blended in with everyone else, it still wasn't... the place... for him.

Not it was any bit more the place for Raven, who also seemed to be more or less "forced" to go. While he understood it was meant for Zaphias' higher up knights and nobles to meet more important guild members and for bridges to be built, Yuri didn't think he fit into any of those categories. Yes, he had a personalized knight outfit made for him because some people insisted he should have it... and yes, he did know people higher up in the guilds, but he himself? He wasn't one of them.

Aside those things, he was the commandant's spouse, so... he was... probably... expected to be there regardless. Sometimes Yuri wished they'd never gotten this far and were still just regular citizens with completely normal lives. Sometimes it felt like their relationship was completely on display for the rest of the world. It wasn't like they had no privacy, but anything public seemed to sometimes get more attention than Yuri would've ever wanted.

"I really don't wanna go to this, but I know they're just gonna give you a hard time if I don't." Genuinely, he wasn't likely to be the one to have to deal with it later if he didn't go. It was Flynn would be badgered about it. Plus, he didn't really want to leave Flynn to have to put up with all of it by himself, either. Even if Flynn knew how to fake it in front of nobles, specifically... Yuri knew he wouldn't be much more comfortable and would likely get exhausted from pleasantries.

"Hopefully we can leave early... I know it's a dinner thing, but there's no way I'm gonna have an appetite in such a stifling environment. I'll probably wait to eat and grab something on the way back. ...After I change." Not just because it would be uncomfortable, but there was no way he'd feel comfortable if he ate somewhere in the Lower Quarter in some suit. He'd look like some wealthy noble walking into their home and eating as if to judge the food, and... the idea itself made him start to feel a little sick.

The people themselves wouldn't be worried that he was actually trying to show off or something, and they'd understand... but it still didn't make him comfortable at the idea of being in that situation. Just the tiniest bit of potential doubt, where someone might think he was changing into something he hated, made him nearly squirm. Showing off any kind of wealth, even on accident, didn't sit right with him. Just because Flynn had moved up in the ranks, and because Yuri was there by association, didn't mean they needed to become so far removed from their home.

Of course, by "the way back", he did mean going back to the Lower Quarter and not the castle. It would feel a lot better being back in familiar territory. Still, he wasn't there, and he let out a sigh. "My bad, we're not even there yet and I'm already agonizing over it. I'll finish getting my fancy kid clothes ready and then make dinner. Karol's off with Raven doing guild stuff tonight to prepare for tomorrow, so it's just us. ...And Repede, because I see the side eye he's giving me. And Repede. Just... with his own dinner."

[mistralxsoul]

//Hi all. I just wanted to say, a quick apology for the sudden absence. A lots been going on and to be honest, it's kinda destroyed any muse/desire to write at this current point in my life. So, I guess I'm writing this to say im officially on a full hiatus until further notice. If anyone wants my discord, hit me up. I'm on there like all the time. But when it comes to writing, im struggling to form words into replies. Genuinely so sorry to everyone I owe a reply to and I think that when I do come back (whenever that might be) I might do some clearing out in my drafts. Unsure though. It really just depends on if my motivation comes back. Sorry everyone :(

[mistralxsoul]

“No, I’m okay, I just… I hit my head. Really hard. I’ll be okay, just give me a second.”

“Yeah, I can see that.” Though Flynn didn’t even need to see it to know it had happened. He had heard it happen. The thud was so loud that Flynn probably would have heard it from down the street. “You know, I’m sure Hanks appreciates that we’re helping with the renovations in the Lower Quarter and everything but I don’t think he’ll appreciate you accidentally giving yourself a concussion in the process.”

Once the half-hearted scolding was out of the way, Flynn gently moved over to wear Yuri was crouched over, holding his head with a grimace. As he knelt down next to the other, he carefully pulled Yuri’s hands away from his head. “Here, let me see it– Oh.”

Yeah, that was… a pretty large bump. Even brushing his fingers across it as softly as possible caused Yuri to wince back. Flynn sighed and carefully moved to help Yuri to his feet. “Aaaand with that, I am now officially declaring you off duty for the day. Let’s go find something to ice that down with and maybe see a medic while we’re at it. Just for my own peace of mind, hm?”

[mistralxsoul]

HURT / COMFORT : STARTERS

a collection of quotes, phrases, and sayings for when your muse needs a little TLC. change & alter as needed.

THE HURT:

“Nah, it’s not that bad. I’ve had worse.”

“I don’t think I can walk that far… or at all.”

“I’m fine. I don’t need your help.”

“Will you stay with me? Just until I fall asleep?”

“I’m sorry, I’m just—I’m just really tired.”

“I don’t need a break. I’m okay.”

“It was my fault. It was all my fault.”

“I think I need help.”

“So, I don’t think I’m dying, or anything, and it’s probably not that serious, but… I’m kinda bleeding. A lot.”

“Is the room spinning right now, or is that just me?”

“No, I’m okay, I just… I hit my head. Really hard. I’ll be okay, just give me a second.”

“I’m not sick! I’m fine!”

“No, I don’t think any of my bones are broken, or anything like that. Just bad bruises.”

“Yeah, but you should see the other guy.”

“I’m fine. This just happens sometimes. It’s normal for me.”

“I’ve got a headache.”

“Seriously, though, I’m fine! Stop making such a big deal out of it!”

“I’ve been taking care of myself for a long time. I don’t need your help, and I definitely don’t need your pity. Fuck off.”

“Please tell me I don’t look as bad as I feel.”

“I think I’m running a fever.”

“So, what’s the prognosis, Doc? Am I gonna live?”

“Stop fussing over me! I’m not a baby!”

“Can I stay with you tonight? I just… really don’t want to be alone right now.”

“No, I-I’m okay. It was just a nightmare. Go back to sleep.”

“I… can’t actually remember the last time I had something to eat.”

“You shouldn’t be here. You’ll get sick, too.”

THE COMFORT:

“Honey, have you been crying? What is it? What’s wrong?”

“I think you’d better take a break.”

“It’s not your fault, sweetheart. You did everything you could.”

“You don’t have to go through this alone. I’m right here for you if you’ll just let me in.”

“There’s nothing wrong with you. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you. Don’t ever let yourself believe that there is.”

“You really don’t realize just how many people love you, do you?”

“If you’re not going to take care of yourself, at least let me do it for you!”

“I’m sorry. I know it hurts.”

“You’re not alone, baby. You never have been.”

“Let’s get you some food.”

“You’re dead on your feet, poor thing. Come on, you need some sleep.”

“Stay where you are. I’m coming to get you.”

“Tell me where it hurts.”

“How many times have I told you to be more careful?!”

“It’s okay. It’s okay. I’m right here, okay? I’m not gonna leave you. I’m never gonna leave you.”

“Oh, honey, you’re safe now. I promise. I’m not going to let anything happen to you.”

“Go ahead and take a shower. I’ll fix you something to eat.”

“What happened to you, baby?”

“I’ll kill that bastard. I’ll kill him for what he did to you.”

“You look like shit, man.”

“Whoa, whoa, take it easy! You got pretty banged up back there, and you don’t want to go making yourself worse.”

“I’m not trying to baby you. It’s called taking care of my friends.”

“Sweetheart, you’re burning up! Why didn’t you say anything? Why didn’t you tell anyone you were sick?”

[mistralxsoul]

Flynn chuckled, reaching for a cookie as well before biting into it. It was true, Flynn was probably just as rowdy, if not rowdier, as the other boys growing up. The only difference was that he didn’t actually get caught very often. Not as much as the others. And the few times he did get caught… well, he took his scoldings and punishments with such maturity that the adults tended to go easier on him in the end. After all, if you double downed on the things that you did wrong, the scoldings usually got worse.

“How can you prove that I was the sneakiest out of everyone if there’s no one to back you up on that? I never got caught, now did I?” There’s a tiny and proud smirk on Flynn’s face, a rarity that was usually only seen by Yuri nowadays, if ever. Followed by yet another laugh, he leaned back and smiled as he finished chewing the cookie in his hand.

“Yeah, I definitely wouldn’t want to go alone either so I understand your feelings on that.” It was true, though, that both he and Yuri were definitely not ready for the outside world. But how could one truly be ready for a world filled to the brim with monsters? It was definitely something that would come with risks, something that they both learned when they were only seven years old. It would definitely have to be a step that they would have to think out thoroughly. When they were both ready for it.

“You needed time to decompress. Not so much as being alone but just having a moment to actually think for once.” Of course, it was only a guess as to how Yuri felt after a busy day like this one was. Some days would leave them so busy that they could hardly think straight so having a moment to sit down and actually process things was nice to have.

“...'I know what you mean' is basically what I’m getting at. It helps me too...” Flynn snorts, staring back up at the night sky. “... I’m just glad that I can be someone who can help you relax after a long day like this.

Well, they did have plenty of time to think about it. If Flynn had interest in it, he wouldn't dismiss it. It didn't really seem necessary to go anywhere, but Yuri did have some... general interest in the area outside the barrier when he was younger. It was forbidden. It was something he shouldn't have seen. Nowadays that had faded, but back then... he really did have an interest in what was out there.

"Yeah... Even if I wanted to, I don't think I'm ready. There's a lot out there, and when it comes to monsters and all the dangerous stuff, I need to be properly ready for that stuff. For now it's safest to stay here... and I guess yeah, I'm used to what I know. It's comfortable. I like the people here. Maybe it's just 'cause I don't wanna go anywhere alone, since I wouldn't be sharing the experience with anyone."

When Flynn started letting out that teasing side of himself, Yuri snorted at his comment. "You caused no trouble, eh? I think you were the sneakiest of us, being a troublemaker with us but quietly." While he'd say Flynn was the gentlest of all the boys, it was also perhaps a skill in itself to get into trouble with the rest of them with that quiet, polite appearance. It made him wonder how often even Jiri had fallen for it.

Even with all the other boys in mind though, yeah, Flynn was right. Nowadays he couldn't imagine Flynn not being there. Since they were kids, they had just... stuck together. It had just happened, and it had just stayed that way. It was just... natural. That had been going on so long that anything else felt like a disruption in his life. He felt a little bad about it for the other boys, because it did feel like he was playing favorites... but he really did also just see Flynn as an "always there" presence in his life.

As Yuri munched on another cookie, he pulled one out and handed it to Flynn with an almost curiously offering expression. Since Flynn had given him the bag, he assumed Flynn had taken them out here for Yuri, but... they shared everything, right? Flynn was no sweet lover, but cookies weren't particularly sweet. Still, it reminded him that if he traveled anywhere outside the barrier without Flynn, he'd have nobody to share with the way he was used to.

"Thanks for hanging out with me, by the way. It helped. I mean, I was exhausted from today, but... talking to you while it's calm out here helped. Sometimes I don't even really think about it because I'm so used to being surrounded by people, but... having time and space to myself is nice once in a while. Not that I'm completely by myself right now, but... you know what I mean, right?"

[mistralxsoul]

The first thing that Flynn felt was guilt as he watched the pained expression wash over Yuri’s face as he attempted to push himself up into a sitting position. Dammit, yeah– Getting that checked was going to be top priority before anything else. At least, that’s what Flynn wanted to insist immediately. Getting Yuri to go along with it would probably be a different story. It really just depended on how Yuri was feeling.

The feeling of guilt only got worse when he saw the black and blue coloring on his skin. It honestly made him sick. How could Flynn possibly explain that? Simply put: He couldn’t. He had gotten angry with himself and now Yuri was suffering for it. Flynn should have never… he should have never lashed out like that… If only he knew how to cast First Aid but they haven’t gotten to the point in serving the knights where they were being allowed to learn magical artes…

The sudden apology about the journal caught Flynn off guard, his eyes widening slightly as he tried to think of what Yuri could possibly be apologizing for. For a brief moment, he wondered if Yuri had accidentally done something to the journal but… Oh, he was just apologizing for not putting it back…

Flynn let out a tiny sigh, shaking his head. “That’s not… something you have to apologize for. It’s fine.” He mumbled, sparing a glance towards the book that had now been put to the side. “It’s just… a book. Nothing to stress about, really.”

He moved back a bit, giving Yuri space as he moved to sit up and for a moment, he reached out as if he were wanting to help Yuri move but… did he have the right to offer the other help? Especially since he was the one who had hurt him to begin with? Eventually, Flynn sighed and pulled his hands back to himself and moved to sit across from Yuri on his own bed, folding his hands across his lap.

They sat in an awkward silence for a moment as Flynn chewed on his lip anxiously, unsure of what to say. Unsure of how to bring up the journal. Unsure of how to apologize. When did he start having such a hard time speaking around Yuri…?

Once again, Yuri speaks up, giving something for Flynn to latch onto, something he could respond to and with a deep breath, Flynn slowly considers their options. “I… think it might be a better idea to change into something that would give the healers easier access to your shoulder. If it’s something that can be fixed with a simple First Aid spell, then you should be okay enough to come and change afterwards. If not then… I doubt you’ll be on duty today anyway.”

Flynn swallowed nervously, finally letting his eyes meet Yuri’s as the dreaded topic finally came up: The journal.

“...If… you feel like we need to talk about it, we can. That was why I let you read it. So you– I… So I could communicate what’s been going through my head lately. Even if it probably didn’t make much sense…” He ran a hand through his hair. “Talking about it is probably for the best but… maybe we should get your shoulder checked first. It doesn’t look that great, to be honest. I… Sorry…”

It hadn't been his intention to be up so late reading, and waking up was slow. Staying up so late was probably a bad idea, given that he had to be up even earlier today to have his shoulder checked and then he had to head out for guard duty. It was just guard duty... so hopefully nothing happened. If it did, he was pretty sure he would be told to stay somewhere safe, and he didn't like that... but right now he was too tired to complain about that thought.

"Ah-... Flynn..." He blinked slowly, tiredly. How long was he sitting there? Why was he waiting for him? Normally Flynn got up and just went about his morning, and if Yuri slept in, then, well, he slept in. If he was late, he'd get scolded as needed. Nowadays Yuri didn't really know why Flynn did what he did, or if he was truly worried about Yuri improving as a knight.

As he tried to sit up, he winced from the soreness in his shoulder. Instead of pushing it with Flynn right in front of him, he hesitated and held off moving for a moment, leaning against the pillow instead. Once it subsided enough, Yuri slowed his movements as he sat up, opting to check his shoulder himself first before moving around for the morning. Even if he went to the infirmary, he still had to get there.

Like the night before, Yuri fiddled with his top and slowly, carefully pulled the shirt back to check the bruising. Eyes coming into contact with the black and blue, he let out a small hiss. Less from pain and more the look of it, but there was definitely a mild almost throb. A bit of a dull pain that would remind him not to be reckless with that arm today. Slowly, he pulled his clothes back over his shoulder.

It didn't look... really bad, but it did hurt. No severe swelling that he could see or feel, so it would probably heal in a few days at least. He was no doctor, but it wasn't like he'd never been injured, especially as a knight. He'd had any degree of wounds before and in any different spot on his body. Sometimes he made more of a fuss about it, depending on how regulated his actions needed to be because of it, but he couldn't risk making Flynn feel worse about this.

Just as he was about to move again, he paused. He looked to his side, where the journal had been last night, noticing it wasn't there. His eyes drifted to Flynn's desk where it was now as his first location to look for it to make sure it was in one piece. He'd intended to put it back when he was done with it, but apparently he'd accidentally fallen asleep with it nearby... Hopefully it wasn't damaged...

"Uh... sorry about... the journal... I meant to put it back, but I guess I got too tired, and... passed out with it right there. I meant to take better of it..." The last sentence was spoken with a light sigh. Just when Flynn was ready to trust him with something important, he'd risked screwing it up.

Again he moved slowly, bringing his feet over the side of the bed. He wasn't sure if he should change his clothes right now... It might have been better to simply keep what he had on, get his shoulder checked, and decide what to do about his clothes when they got back. Given that the wound was on his shoulder, he'd probably need help with his shirt at least. Trying to switch his clothes with one hand would probably be difficult, and he was pretty sure he should be trying it without his bad arm.

He could always just grit his teeth through any pain and just do it, but if that made the pain start to really throb, it could cause him issues down the line during the day. While he could still carry a weapon because he could just use his good arm, if anything important happened, he wasn't sure that in practice he'd be able to use it, if only because any movement could sting and hold him back. Which meant... doing it the slow, gentle way that would cause the least pain to his shoulder.

Was Flynn still okay with that...? With that level of intimacy? The truth was, he really didn't know if he would need help with any, some of or all of his clothes. Of course it might be a little awkward since they were older now... That sort of thing had started getting awkward when they were teenagers. In this case though Yuri really did possibly need the help. Did they still have that sort of intimacy, where he could ask for that help?

"Not sure if I should change my clothes now or after we go to the infirmary. I guess now might make more sense, in case they gotta put something on my shoulder for padding, and I might mess it up if I have to change after that. But... are you... okay with helping me? Not sure I'll be able to move both shoulders right..."

He paused, catching himself having perhaps seemed like he was glossing over the journal, then backtracked. "And, um... if you wanna talk about the journal stuff later... ...uh... I dunno, I mean... we can... talk about it or something. But if you wanna just leave it as is, we don't have to talk about it... I just... I don't know what you... wanna do with that..."

[mistralxsoul]

Despite only hearing limited talk of Guy’s friends, it was clear that the blonde man was correct. They definitely seemed to be good people. Or at the very least, had a general understanding of human decency. Sure, the bar was low but Flynn had met plenty of people in his life that lacked even that. He was glad to hear that Guy didn’t have to deal with people like that.

“So it would see. I’m glad you have some people to help support you through that. As they say, there’s nowhere to go but up.” Flynn smiled encouragingly. And it was true, at least from what Flynn had seen.

Upon hearing that the man was willing to go and apologize and explain himself to the innkeeper, Flynn smiled, almost looking proud of the man for being willing to step up and speak up for himself. “I think that might be a good idea, actually. Now, I must warn you. The innkeeper here may seem a bit… rough around the edges. She’s pretty strict about stuff and doesn’t sugarcoat anything either. I’ve been lectured by her plenty of times growing up.”

Flynn laughed a bit at the memories. Between him and Yuri, Yuri was definitely scolded the most but that didn’t mean Flynn didn’t get in trouble for his own fair share of troubles. Honestly, Flynn probably got into trouble more than Yuri did and the only difference was that Flynn just didn’t get caught.

Upon hearing Guy’s affirmation that he was ready, Flynn nodded and opened the door for him, waiting for him to enter before following him afterwards. A few eyes were immediately on the two of them, probably for a multitude of reasons. Some looked at Guy suspiciously because of his outburst earlier, some looked Flynn with a look of excitement that he had decided to come visit and some had a look of curiosity stretching across their faces upon seeing the similarities between the two.

Flynn cleared his throat and offered some of the folks inside a small wave before leading Guy to the counter, where a woman seemed busy at work counting out some of her gald. Her eyes darted up to meet with Flynn and Guy’s and after a moment, she put the gald aside. “Ah, welcome home, Flynn. I heard you just reserved a table with some company.” Her eyes drifted fully to Guy, eyeing him up and down for a moment.

“Yes… Um… This is Guy. We just met a bit ago. He helped me catch someone who had been causing some trouble… There was a little bit of an incident and he might have spooked your daughter a little.” Flynn paused when he noticed her nodding, confirming that she had been told about it. “He just wanted to apologize for everything before we sat down to eat.”

"I appreciate it, Flynn. Seriously," he said. Of course he did. Anyone who was willing to help out that much was that little extra bit good in his books. But Flynn already was good in his books.

"Well... once I ended up uncovering what the root cause was, of course my friends stopped teasing." That kind of came with the territory. A specific fear, related to a specific trauma, wasn't exactly something funny at the best of times. But without the crucial context, he could see how the others would have been amused.

"They're good people. I know they didn't ever really mean anything by it. Still..." Ah, that was enough about that. Guy followed Flynn's lead once more to the inn, and he really got a look around at last. It wasn't the fanciest place, but that wasn't at all what Guy was interested in. He just liked getting to see these sorts of places for what they were. After all, it was where people gathered to be together and enjoy food and conversation. What wasn't to like?

"Honestly, I think I should come," Guy admitted. "Might make sense if I came over to help explain what just happened, you know? I mean, I probably don't have to... but I want to." That just was the sort of guy that Guy was. It wouldn't feel right to, even after having his phobia triggered the way it was, just sit back and do nothing.

"So, shall we?"

[mistralxsoul]

//unless things go wrong again like they like to do, i will attempt to get back to replies on monday. Sorry for lack of updates. Had gotten hit with a super bad Upper Respiratory infection and was under so much medication that I barely remember anything that happened this week LMAO

//bc life likes to hit me with everything at once, got hit with da super sickness so replies are once again on hold until I feel like I'm not gonna pass it simply from breathing lol

[mistralxsoul]

//bc life likes to hit me with everything at once, got hit with da super sickness so replies are once again on hold until I feel like I'm not gonna pass it simply from breathing lol

[mistralxsoul]

Flynn felt his cheeks warm up a bit in embarrassment. He knew he had to rely on others but it was simply something that he wasn’t used to. Whenever his father wasn’t home, Flynn always felt like he had to be someone who could be depended on. His mother was, as much as he hated to think about it, pretty frail so he needed to be someone she could depend on.

Flynn never really had someone he could rely on. He always had to be the one. Always had to do things for himself so he could prove that he was dependable and not a burden or an annoyance. He’s not sure what put him in that mindset but it was just something he made himself believe. Maybe it was because his father was always so dependable? Always someone that people could rely on?

At least… until he had–

No, he didn’t want to think about that right now.

“I know… Mother told me that last night too, after she talked to me about what had happened.” Flynn frowned, resting his free hand across his lap. He remembered that Jiri had scolded him about it as well. He wasn’t sure how he felt about his weakness being clear for all to see. “I’m going to try and be better about it…”

He… wished he could be more like Yuri. Yuri always seemed to have it together. At least for the most part. But he always seemed to be someone who could be relied on… like Flynn wanted to be. He couldn’t help but wonder if there was someone Yuri himself relied on.

“Do you also ask people for help, Yuri?” Flynn couldn’t help but ask. He had just never seen the other ask for help too often. “It’s just that… you always seem to have a good grasp on everything going on and… the times that you don’t, you still find a way to handle it anyway.”

Flynn was right - he did go through a lot. It still scared him, honestly. He just... wasn't good at handling it. Figuring out what to do with those feelings. It was easier to avoid them right now, when the memories were still so fresh. With the way Flynn was now and how he'd apparently been last night when he'd gotten home, he probably wasn't very comfortable in general either. It just... made Yuri feel like he needed to avoid it and get Flynn back on his feet.

Still, Flynn got up to... formally apologize to him, and it almost made Yuri antsy. He didn't need any sort of apology, really, as long as Flynn didn't do anything like that again. Didn't go out alone and put himself in a situation like that again. Yuri had always looked out for the other kids, but Flynn seemed to go off on his own way more than any of them ever did. It made him feel like he had to be there - to be around to make sure he was okay.

"Um... It's... I... It's okay... I just wanted to make sure you were okay going out alone, and... I hope you'll rely on us a little more." Not just him, but the adults or the other kids. For now the other kids still sort of had a ways to climb up to get Flynn's trust most likely after how they'd treated him, but Yuri was sure one day Flynn would be able to feel safe enough to rely on most of the people in the Lower Quarter.

Although, the way he awkwardly climbed back onto the bed after his grand performance was almost adorable. Yuri didn't want to fluster him more than he clearly already was, but Yuri didn't really get to see this side of Flynn often at all. Sometimes it would poke through, but it was never quite so outright. Maybe it also meant Flynn was genuinely, truly warming up to him, at least. It was a start for him to warm up to everyone.

This gave him all the more reason to want to stick around for the day, though. To be someone Flynn could lean on while he was still processing his feelings about yesterday. For Yuri it was simply easier to ignore them and distract himself. Getting involved in and focused on weapon training was pretty ideal for that. One day he really should learn more proper defensive strategies too, in case... anything like yesterday did happen again.

"Just don't go out by yourself anymore, okay? Everyone here... is understanding if you just talk to them. We all help each other. Even if you just lose something, a lot of us here... don't have much. Anything we lose can hurt. People will understand if you want to go out to find something. The few things we do have mean a lot to us, so... don't feel bad if you have to ask for help. We all have to ask each other for help to get by here. Nobody will judge you."

[mistralxsoul]

“That definitely fills me with hope.” The words leave his lips with a relieved sigh, releasing a breath that he wasn’t aware that he had been holding. Hopefully the young girl knew someone who could assist him, or at the very least, direct him down the correct path. Being so far away from his home was definitely nerve wracking.

While he was here, though, it would definitely help to get to know the surrounding area and to learn about the people and the customs here as well. If he were to find his way back home, he would definitely have to inform His Highness Ioder about the existence of this place and of the people here. Establishing a good relation with the leaders here would likely be beneficial in the long run.

But thoughts of work must wait for now. At least, until he got an understanding of what was going on and how he got here to begin with.

“I have to admit, it’s been a little while since I last ate so a delicious meal sounds great right about now.” Flynn smiled in agreement. “I definitely don’t mind small towns. In fact, they tend to make me feel a bit at home sometimes.”

Small towns usually meant delicious meals. At least, in Flynn’s eyes anyway. The less people in a village, the less rushed the cook would feel when in the kitchen. At least, that’s what he was taught growing up. From his experience, food always tasted better when the cook was able to give the food extra attention. The innkeeper back at home always said that it was called “Cooking with Love”. Flynn could definitely believe in that sentiment, if anything.

“Horse Riding was something that was taught to us when I joined the knights back at home so you don’t need to worry too much about me in that regard. Though I would have to find where to retrieve a horse. Do they sell or loan out any horses that I could use during my travels?”

"Even if no one here has heard of your home, I may know some people who most certainly have." Rose was one of them; if the mercenary-turned-merchant wasn't aware of a place, then it just simply couldn't exist. Which wasn't... entirely true, but seemed like a safe enough assumption to operate under.

And if she didn't know of Zaphias, then the Seraphim would. One of them had to. Lailah seemed to know something about everything, and Zaveid had traveled the whole world before. Certainly between the two of them they would have to know something.

Marlind was the closest inn for him to stay at for the night. The town had once been far more populated, but the plague that had recently torn through it had left it in shambles. They were doing their best to recover, but they had lost so many both from death and from people who had simply made the decision to move away. It meant that there was a heavy quiet that had stretched over the town as they entered. A few people waved, but she visited quite often; no one was surprised to see the Princess-Knight of Hyland visiting them.

Well-- no. She was the Queen-Knight now.

"The village is small, but the inn is clean and they serve some delicious food here." Alisha laughed a little, trying her best to keep the mood light between them; she wouldn't have blamed Flynn at all for feeling distraught or despondent over the fact that he was far away from a home that no one here had ever heard of before. "Oh-- do you know how to ride a horse?" It had just been an assumption of hers, and horseback was going to be the fastest way back to Hyland tomorrow.

[mistralxsoul]

Flynn could feel his cheeks burn with embarrassment as he found his mind slowly drift towards the thought of his big day with Yuri and he couldn’t help the tiny chuckle that slipped from his lips. “Oh, please don’t concern yourself with this particular job getting in the way of anything. We are more than capable of waiting it out and, truth be told, it’s more us settling into our new positions in life that’s interrupting our planning. I’m sure things will slow down sometime in the near future where we will be allowed to plan the special day.”

The thought of bringing Ludger to the wedding simply because of his job to guard him didn’t sit right with Flynn, however. No, he definitely didn’t want to bring his work to his wedding. Yuri would probably kill him. No, instead… If Ludger really was a new friend of Yuri’s and continued to be as kind as he was, Flynn wouldn’t have any objections to inviting Ludger as a guest instead. LIke… a real guest. Not just a pretend one.

“While we’re still considering the invitations to the wedding, I’m sure neither of us would mind sending you and your brother an invite to the wedding. So… there’s no need for you to act invisible if you were to come. You’ll be welcomed as much as any of our other guests.” The emperor of Zaphias, included. “...I promise you won’t be the only person there with a high title.”

As anxious as it made Flynn. Truly, who would’ve thought that two little kids from the Lower Quarter would have a wedding that had multiple people of power come to witness it.

Upon hearing that it was time for Ludger to return home, Flynn stood up straight and nodded with a smile. “I am to escort you home, this is true. And while being enticed by a meal isn’t necessary, it’s very much appreciated… But I would hate to impose so no need to feel forced to do so.”

Still, Flynn stepped to the side and gave a kind smile to the other. “Please lead the way. We were given the details of where you live as well so some of my knights are already there, patrolling the area around your residence though obviously they aren’t intruding on your actual home. We’re thorough but we’re not invasive.”

"I'm glad to hear that-- I'd hate to distrust a friend again."

If Flynn believed Yuri's integrity, Ludger didn't have reasons not to himself. It's also relieving to know his lack of Yuri knowledge is due to Yuri's smooth, disaffected attitude a la his brother than a personal failing. For Flynn's sake, hopefully Yuri confesses his secrets faster than Julius; Ludger nearly doomed the world in Julius' name and his brother still hasn't told him everything. It hurts a little, but he's used to it.

"I understand; both your jobs do require a level of confidentiality," Flynn's especially; one slip and he could unravel Terca's inner workings to all her enemies. "But I know one thing about Yuri's job that might comfort you: his contractor foots any bills he accrues while living here. He's lucky-- the usual Elympion adage is 'I only look out for number one'."

Of course there was the possibility Yuri's contractor saw the bills as investments for their job's completion, but weeks of complete food, rent, and whatever else Yuri occupies his days with? Ludger's met his share of shady tycoons as CEO; he can't picture a single one sinking this much cash for just one job. Sadly the two of them just have to speculate what their friend's up to and whomever's his boss.

--Or at least Ludger's the friend between them. Flynn on the other hand was several steps above him on the relationship hierarchy. And someday in the future, he'd move to the top floor.

"Oh, congratulations to you both! Though I'm sorry to hear work keeps pushing your big day back," Ludger laughs, knowing the feeling too well. He and Julius went on vacation 0 times during Julius' 15 years as Crown Agent. "If this affair keeps you too long, I should be fine on my own for a few days. Or I'm happy to attend while keeping myself as invisible as possible so I'm not interrupting. Wouldn't be the first party I've done that."

Flynn's confidence wavers as he worries Ludger might believe his priorities aren't straight as they should be. But contrary to Flynn's belief, Ludger's features soften as he addresses him.

"No apologies necessary-- I actually feel more at ease you have someone on the same level as your job. An old friend once told me maintaining one's compassion in a harsh world is the ultimate test of fortitude; you clearly haven't lost yours if you can think about both your job and Yuri."

Would Rowen be happy he's quoting him even now? Or would he see it as a mockery from his friend-turned-enemy? Ludger'll have to ponder that another time-- his hidden wrist watch is vibrating; it's Julius' dinner time. If he didn't hurry on home, his brother will gobble up the raw tomatoes to tide himself over. Too bad there's no big brother proof locks.

"Pardon the sudden request, but would you mind if we continued this discussion at my apartment?" Ludger asks as he returns to his desk to gather the documents he'll need for the night. "I'll have to review the specific terms Vera listed in her request, but I imagine escorting me home is one of them. There's a free home cooked meal in it for you if that's enticing."

[mistralxsoul]

As the new Commandant of Zaphias… would Flynn even be allowed to participate in the fights at Nordopolica? He didn’t see any reason why he wouldn’t. If anything, maybe it could even raise relations between the two continents. After all, it would be quite entertaining to see the Commandant of all people participating in the tournaments there. That was what the work side of his brain was saying, anyway.

In truth, Flynn loved the idea of getting to fight alongside Yuri again or even fight against Yuri again. Of course, the two of them could spar at any given moment if they so wished but Flynn couldn’t help but think back to the day that he and Yuri fought each other in the colosseum. There was something exhilarating about it that made Flynn want to experience it again.

“Nordopolica seems like a fun time. It’d be nice to visit it as just a visitor, as opposed to a knight on duty.” Flynn smiled quietly as he leaned back in the pillow beneath him. He was already feeling groggy as it was but he was sure the medicine would be trying to drag him to sleep before too long. “But yes, I’m excited to see what place comes to mind. I’m surprised you didn’t have a favorite place though… I know there were always places that I went to that were my favorite. Places that I would’ve liked to show you one day.”

Of course, any place that he would’ve liked to show Yuri, the other had already seen over the course of his journey. So, sadly, there would be no ‘showing Yuri something for the first time’ moments but Flynn could look at it in a positive light. If Yuri could think of any location that called to him specifically, they could experience their favorites together.

Or maybe that was just the fever talking.

Either way, he found himself excited for the future with his most special someone.

“But yes… first things first, let’s wait for things to calm down. Especially now, after everything that’s happened.” Flynn let out a yawn as he let his tired blue eyes dart over to meet Yuri’s. “I think I might rest for a while… What are you planning on doing now, Yuri? You can stay, if you want. Spirits know that you probably need the extra sleep too.”

"Mm-mm. Don't be sorry. You weren't doing anything wrong. I can't blame you for what wannabe assassins do." That said, he would like to do away with them permanently, but he wasn't sure Flynn would approve even that. Doing away with people trying to assassinate Flynn himself. That did... kind of concern and scare Yuri, all things considered, though. If those people somehow escaped after being jailed, wouldn't they go after him again?

Truth be told, Yuri would rather never have to think about or worry about it again. He had done away with Ragou for similar reasons. Not having been imprisoned at all no less, the guy was left to his own devices. To decide to kill under the radar again. When Yuri had found him at the bridge... he had also been plotting to get revenge on - and likely attempt to kill - Flynn. Cumore had been another one, gunning for Flynn.

Even if Flynn didn't like Yuri taking this sort of thing into his own hands... he was, at this point, truly getting tired of Flynn being in danger because of people like this. Genuinely, Flynn had done nothing wrong to anyone. All he did so far was try to aid the people who needed aid, and to make relations with the guilds better to avoid further war. To avoid more death. It wasn't like he was wiping out rich people's funds or something to truly make the wealthy despise him on a personal level.

Maybe this was because of the guilds, but... even then, Yuri couldn't wrap his head around someone wanting the empire and guilds to go to war. For their relationship to stay terrible. People who profited off death were bad enough, but... he couldn't imagine how someone would even want to. How would that make them go so far as to target an innocent young man. Flynn's calm demeanor might have been the only thing keeping Yuri from becoming enraged at the thought of it.

Hearing Flynn make a light joke did relieve him somewhat. Despite that he couldn't shake the annoyance and irritability at the whole situation happening at all, he truly didn't want to stress Flynn out about this situation, and that was doubly so with him in this condition. "To be honest... I'm not even sure I had a favorite place. Like, a number one favorite? I'd have to think on it. I did visit a lot of places. If you want, we could go to the Nordopolica coliseum as challengers. There's other stuff we could do, other places we could go... but that's the easiest one I can think of off the top of my head."

After all, Yuri didn't want to merely go where he wanted to be again. He wanted to give it thought, sure, for his own favorite place... but also for a place Flynn would be happy to see. He gave Flynn a small smile, a plan to think it over later when things settled down. "Well, I'll think of something. Something not Zopheir. We might not be able to do a whole vacation sort of thing in the super near future, but maybe once all this stuff going on now is settled... we could make plans to visit at least one place for a little while. We can do some actual long term planning for a real vacation after that."

[mistralxsoul]

//so my plan is, is to work on replies and store then for a bit in my queue to release slowly. Trying to get back into the swing of things. Thank you for your patience

[mistralxsoul]

// hi all, im hoping to get back to replies later this week. As expected, i just couldnt focus on replies while at home :(

[mistralxsoul]

out. hello this is kind of embarrassing to say, but this past week has been the worst of my fucking life. i've gotten robbed fired and in a car accident all within less than two weeks and i'm literally suffering so bad. i was already running on thin ice at my current place of employment, but everything kind of took a turn when i pulled a no call, no-show on friday because i was in a car accident and my phone had died and i was at the hospital and i had head pain, and they wanted to make sure that i did not have a concussion. i gave my job the documentation of these events, and then today i had a lady come to my job first and get me because she thought i was somebody else. mind you, i was in the hospital and i did not come to work on this past friday, but she was adamant that i was her server and that i charged her card $200 when, again, i was in the hospital. i was not at work. my manager on duty wasn't trying to fucking help me, so i yelled at her in front of everybody to get the fuck out and learn who the fuck she was talking to amongst other things because that was unacceptable my boss told me he would be doing an investigation, which i didn't understand because i physically was not at work. there's nothing to investigate. there is no way i could've charged this lady's card if i'm not at work. so we got into it about multiple things while i was still at work, and after i left, a couple hours later over the phone so she pretty much terminated me, which it's fine, but that was my primary source of income so i'm kind of screwed.

then i got robbed at gunpoint last week, and while i am physically OK, i had like all of my cash tips from the past week in my wallet, so i lost almost $400 of bill money that i can't get back because even though i filed a police report, like, the cops told me there's no way to get my money back as there's no way to track cash. my only priority at this point is just keeping my phone on because my phone is how i connect to a wifi hotspot to do stuff for university / tumblr. i know i haven't been the most active because i have a very demanding work and school schedule, but one less job means i'll have more time to write hopefully with you all. literally anything helps, even just reblogging this. i feel very bad putting all of this out there, but i'm literally at my wits end of bad event after bad event after bad event. i also apologize to the grammar for this. i'm doing voice-to-text because it's just easier for me right now. i'm thankful that i live at home and my landlord is my mother so i don't have rent to worry about, but pretty much all my other expenses and my day-to-day life do follow me besides rent. i know for that, i am a lot more privileged than other people and while i do have some savings, it's going to pretty much be used to getting me from the doctor and physical therapy appointments because i've already started legal action against the person that hit me and a hit and run, mind you.

edit: blurring license plate

[mistralxsoul]

Yuri had gotten today off from work, which meant he was home before Flynn got back from work. They were also in Aurnion today, which meant the trip home wouldn't be long. Since he'd been the one home today he'd done the shopping, and with snacks on sale... suffice to say he came home with multiple packs of pocky. Almost like a child in excitement, as soon as he heard Flynn had gotten home, Yuri began carrying out his plan, popping the end of a pocky stick in his mouth and hurrying off to greet Flynn.

Not at all what Flynn was expecting today, no doubt. But Yuri moved close to him, the plain end of the stick in Flynn's direction. Since he wasn't fond of sweets anyway, they both won. Yuri would happily take the chocolate end! He nodded forward and looked to the stick in his mouth, then back to Flynn a couple times, hoping to get the message across. This could even double over as Yuri's welcome home greeting kiss, so everything worked out!

Flynn wasn't really sure what to think upon walking in and seeing Yuri hurry over to him with clear intent shining in his dark eyes. At first, he assumed that after Yuri finished chewing on the treat he currently held between his lips, that he would simply greet Flynn the way he always did when the other would come home. With a Welcome home kiss and questions about how his day was or about what he had gotten up to today.

But instead, Yuri stood there, waiting and watching as he held the chocolate stick in his mouth and Flynn could only stare back, blank confusion written clear on his face. Yuri's eyes darted down to the stick in question and Flynn's eyes followed. Yuri peeked back up at Flynn, and Flynn did the same. This... repeated more times than Flynn would have cared to admit before it finally dawned on him on what Yuri was expecting from him.

"Oh--"

Flynn cleared his throat and felt his cheeks warm up as he stepped forward. It was a simple exchange, really. Flynn bit onto the other end of the stick, gentle enough where he didn't break through it just yet before he nibbled his way closer to Yuri. Thankfully, Yuri did the same, meaning that Flynn's assumptions were correct and that he wasn't making a complete fool of himself.

Eventually, they met in the middle, their lips brushing against each other in a simple but sweet kiss before Yuri pulled away, clearly pleased. Flynn couldn't help but chuckle as well. "Hello to you too, love. Seems like you're doing well today." Flynn greeted, stealing another kiss on the cheek before moving past him to begin their own little routine at home.