ragnvindrdawn

[ragnvindrdawn]

openly claiming it as a special day, now that's a pleasant surprise. "so, you haven't forgotten this time. at least you're making progress." and for one, he's glad to see it in person rather than hearing it from someone else. such an opportunity hasn't been one he thought possible after all they've endured since childhood, but if there's a chance things can change, it isn't one he wants to allow pass by.

the invitation isn't something he needs to waste time thinking about, when there have been multiple occasions he already considered celebrating with his brother. "alright then, I'll buy since it is your birthday... unless you have any objections for some reason?" giving up his preferred drink for a while is a small price compared to a memorable day, maybe they could even discuss working things out between them, even if getting back on the right track might still be a long way off.

TAKING THE BOX FROM DILUC, he's a little abashed at the sudden appearance of his brother, having thought to hear something more... perhaps visceral was too harsh of a word. still, there's a happiness to a familiar face, especially noting the outfit the other has taken to wear from his own birthday gift, even if he isn't exactly one to show his heart on his sleeve. ❝ Of course. I am the birthday boy, after all! As for something better, haven't you already taken the time in getting these for me? To receive fine wines from Master Diluc of the Dawn Winery himself... why, how can anything get better than that? ❞ perhaps that last part was a little dramatic, just as he always tends to be, but there was a sincerity in it. and after a beat of silence, kaeya speaks again, albeit a little reserved given the topic.

❝ Would you care to join me tonight...? I know a quaint little tavern that serves non-alcoholic beverages alongside its other menu. My only birthday request is no grape juice. How about it? ❞

[ragnvindrdawn]

"planning an outing already? and before I've even had the chance to give you these? I'm a little disappointed." well, as long as Kaeya is happy then it's fine. he wastes little time holding the box out to his brother in offering to take off his hands. "don't expect much, it's just some fragrances and wine for now. I'll find something better when I have more time free."

❝ You know, I think tonight is a wonderful time to go out for a nice drink or two at the tavern. It's no Angel's Share, but it should do well enough to celebrate the moment, I think. ❞ now if only there were company to go along with it, it would likely make the time all the better...

[ragnvindrdawn]

who could say how long its been since Pikachu had seen him last, but from the reaction alone, he could guess quite some time has passed. "I'm here." he takes the opportunity to approach once the door is shut, carefully gathering the mouse from the stairs to tuck into his arm, gently scratching Pikachu's head with the other hand. "I hope you've been taking care of yourself in my absence." it doesn't need to be asked as a question because he knows his little friend would never make him worry.

and while that lingers in his mind... "have you eaten yet? shall I make something for us if not?" either way, he could still grab a drink for himself even if Pikachu doesn't want anything just yet. for the time being, he steps into the kitchen and sits at the table, still fussing over the companion to give that reassurance he's not going anywhere so soon after returning. not so long as he could help it. the stars may do as they please, but staying with Pikachu is the priority—as well as that annoying brother of his... troublesome or otherwise.

it may be too early to say he's home, but there is comfort in knowing those he cares for most are here, with the exception of a few who are hopefully enjoying time back in their own worlds.

@ragnvindrdawn!

even though he was used to this, it was always lonely. for whatever reason, the Stars like to take away his friends, like they were taunting him for ever getting close to humans. there was something comforting in the manor staying even though its owner was missing — it was a special home, not one that would still be here even if everyone left it. it was Diluc's home, so that meant he wasn't gone forever. Rain too. he always came back.

he had managed on his own. the bowl of candies left out for trick or treaters while he went out to take part was emptied out by the time he was home and he'd made sure not to make any messes. it was just... really quiet. and cold, in a way.

when the door opened up, his ears twitched. an eclipse had happened not long ago, but so had others and nothing changed. he was scared of getting excited, only to find out it was the same again. so it was curiosity that brought him to the staircase, looking down at who had walked in.

even though the door was open, the manor was warm again.

ϟ ...you're back. ϟ the corners of his eyes were so warm, they tickled from the damp, so a paw brushed against it, but right away afterwards, they hit the stairs like a rolling hill. ϟ Diluc! ϟ

[ragnvindrdawn]

it was obvious the latest additions wouldn't escape the animals curiosity for long. but his own? he has too much in need of sorting to join whatever is happening. "I don't, but if you want to go outside and have a look at the others, you're welcome to do so.

make sure you're careful though, alright?"

ϟ —oh... right. sorry. ϟ it was probably only because of Diluc that he hadn't managed to already.

but that wasn't the important part. ϟ i saw outside! there are lots of Pokémon i haven't seen before. or they feel like us. lots of people have them so i wanted to see if you did too. ϟ

[ragnvindrdawn]

once again, his little companion is well on the way to causing trouble, judging by how the volume of Pikachu's voice increases quickly. "what have I told you about using your abilities indoors? you might cause harm to yourself."

ϟDIIIILUUUUCϟ comes from the staircase and growing louder really, really fast. he's not using Quick Attack indoors, what do you mean?

[ragnvindrdawn]

were this any other ordinary day, he might believe it to be a casual visit rather than some sort of reminder. lucky for Kaeya then he remains unbothered. even if it is something that no longer holds any meaning. while he doesn't appear too impressed by the gesture, Diluc does in fact appreciate the effort. "worth celebrating? hardly. you and I both know it hasn't been important for a long time." still, he stands, staring at the package in thought for a while more.

their usual opposition isn't present which should be surprising but this is preferable to longstanding disagreements. he hums, quiet, an attempt to figure out what the next course of action should be. they can't continue forever as they have done, and yet, there's an uncertainty in forgiveness for the moment. trust takes time to repair, as do broken bonds and both need to find some sense of it again.

"is that all you came for, or was there some other secret purpose to this?" perhaps he doesn't really want to know. it's a miracle his brother even bothered to set foot anywhere near his home, it might be better to give the benefit of the doubt. "never mind... I guess you should come inside for now." if Kaeya wants to, that is. the door now wide open in invitation as he waits on a decision.

that may be expecting more than the captain is willing to allow, of course. whatever the choice, he'd respect it. "unless you're too busy with whatever it is you normally do."

HOW LONG HAS HE THOUGHT THIS OVER? not too long, he would say to anyone asking him, yet the truth is embedded deep in his heart. time and again, it's relayed in his mind since a year ago, when his brother had reached into that inky ichor to pull him from the jaws of death. all around his birthday, no less. maybe it was just another essence of guilt meant to pile upon the pyre, awaiting the day diluc would set it aflame by his own hands, leaving kaeya to remain adrift in their ash. but that would be just another fanciful lie, wouldn't it? a thing to let him keep hiding, something to keep himself safe, than to start piecing back together all the broken shards they'd slowly been able to pick back up over time.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀a rift needing to heal, lest it become an irreparable maw.

only thoughts as those aren't meant for days like this, not when it should be about diluc's happiness, nothing more. so, the captain stands at the open door to his brother's home, gift in hand while facing the red-head. it's the least he could do — to try.

❝ Here. Take it. ❞ kaeya holds out the small package, wrapped elegantly with a flourish, in an array of colors to thoughtfully match its recipient. and were diluc to accept, he would find a beautiful set of clothes tailored to his tastes. a dark suit, garnished with a deep red silk vest and ashen gray patterns etched upon the coat in perfect precision, lined with dashes of dark crimson to accent it. there were also a set of gloves to pair alongside it, if he chose. ❝ Days like this are worth celebrating and today is certainly no exception. ❞

@ragnvindrdawn

[ragnvindrdawn]

behind the door, he finds the home's owner looking a little more than worse for wear. understandable considering that discovery he'd make earlier. Diluc would have stopped by sooner but he hadn't wished to cause disturbance so soon. "she's gone... yes, I know. that's not the purpose of my visit. I thought you might want some company." after all, Aichi has known Misaki much longer and is undoubtedly used to seeing her every day.

steps lead him inside which he wastes no time in heading for the kitchen, a place all too familiar from many past occasions he joined them for meals, or a simple conversation. although, it does seem much emptier without her presence. a silent note to drop by more often in future so Aichi shouldn't feel as if there's no one left to turn to.

"I brought leftover pancakes from this morning if you'd like some? Pikachu wasn't able to finish them, even after reassuring me he could manage. I believe the appetite of his eyes is much larger than his stomach at times." he calls out just enough for the boy to hear until Diluc looks over as Aichi enters the doorway. "there's also something I've been working on for those who don't drink alcohol. perhaps you wouldn't mind sharing your opinion?"

he's quick to unpack the treats and place them on a plate, then seating himself at the end of the table, brief pause of silence following. "...will you be alright? it's a difficult question to face, I'm sure. I just need to be certain. Misaki wouldn't wish for her departure to spoil the rest of your time here. you know that as well as I do."

@ragnvindrdawn

Since day one, she had always been there, just a little ahead. The two of them had been through everything and managed to lean on one another when need. When Kai and Elatha weren't here, there was still each other. But then... the house fell so quiet. It was a possibility they'd both considered, even if never spoken of; anyone was subject for release from Spirale and return home — their friends, their boyfriends, even them.

Still, all the belief in the world that they would be ready couldn't truly compete with the gravity that dragged his heart down to open the door in check to find Misaki's room without her. Every decoration remained in place, like a snapshot in time, but she... wasn't anywhere to be seen.

He'd kept busy to keep the full force of such change from overwhelming him; let it come in smaller waves, like the staged filling of a cup. His greatest fear had always been isolation — to be lost in that world of utter darkness where not a soul could be found no matter in which direction he looked. Though candle-lights of others' company fizzled out across the passage of time, he was never entirely alone. Until now.

Running a palm along Wingal's mane to High-Beast's coos had been a source of comfort in knowing that he wasn't entirely by himself, but it was only a bandage. One that peeled some with the unprovoked knock of the front door, bringing the canine's head up and darting for toward the source. A little dazed, Aichi's follow was staggered, having to take a moment for slow breaths and steel himself for what might be waiting — he daren't get his hopes up, not if they were at risk of collapsing and slashing at his heart with them.

A pull ushered in sunlight and the towering stature of the visitor — a double-edged blade when the ease of his appearance came with the realisation Misaki was likely his intended receiver. "Diluc— Uhm... this might be a bad time. I— I mean—... you're welcome to come in, of course, I just mean... uh..." Sagged shoulders let clear the frustration he'd stumbled at the very first hurdle.

[ragnvindrdawn]

genesismaiden​:

She’d initially been prepared to respond with a downplayed invitation; one he could turn down should it not fit with his preference — camping wasn’t exactly everyone’s cup of tea. Though that hurdle would never need crossing as the man voiced clear his acceptance, and there, Misaki found herself somewhat stumped. He was so prepared to do what may need to ease his soul of its turmoil and ease its pain, even go out of his way without batting an eye. Going so far as to fund the trip if need be. She couldn’t take that generosity without something said in return; instinct urged her to reign him back from such an extreme, and yet silence seized her voice by a lump swollen in her throat.

For all the friends who had passed through and returned onto home, there were still those who remained. Few they might be, she was never one for large gatherings in the first place — and the two of them shared a great deal in peace. Misaki never took for granted those who passed her way, holding on their memory even once their faces became nothing more than that, like a time capsule. It instilled a reluctance to settle and feel entirely comfortable. The gaping hole within her could never close, not so long as Elatha remained absent — but that was not Diluc’s job, nor that of anyone else. She had spent the time since carrying on as best she could, and anticipated the same were true of others with similar experience.

Her lips twisted ever so, faintly smiling at the notion they could escape. Just for a while. And perhaps succeed in blocking out the noise. The familiar sights that lacked full colour. “You don’t have to go that far. We’ll split the cost — my way of saying thank you. You’re going above and beyond as it is — I couldn’t possibly let you foot the bill”. A fingertip traced circles upon the table, with purpose no more than a simple scratch without risk of chipping. “Would after the weekend be too soon? It’s going to take some preparation, so I’d rather give you the necessary time to have your ducks in a row where friends are concerned”.

“perhaps not, but you are the one in need of respite. it’s no trouble for a good friend. I’d prefer if you allow me to pay.” and if she were to continue trying to persuade otherwise, he would only insist just as stubbornly. it was his idea, after all. Diluc would not take no as an answer in this instance. should she wish to return in kind, there are plenty of things she can do so with. lending an ear to listen to his day was more than enough to suffice. no further actions are necessary when she already has enough to consider.

this weekend seemed like sensible suggestion. “that should give me enough time to sort everything.” there is another thing though. perhaps she’d like to make it a small group outing, Misaki might consider inviting another along in that case—to be around friends in a different environment than her usual visits may even help more than she believes. “why not ask Aichi if he’d like to accompany us? he’s the only one who is most familiar to you. if you’re worried about the cats, I’m sure you could find someone willing to take care of them while both of you are away.” surely there are plenty of people who’d gladly step in, even when both cats can be mischievous at times, Misaki’s terror more so than the other.

[ragnvindrdawn]

genesismaiden​:

Run so deep in her thoughts, Misaki had to repeat what he had spoken to ensure she’d heard right — always so stubborn, she had been one to go against the grain rather than fall in line, and here he was, highlighting how desperation gnawed away at that resistance so natural. Changing herself had never been a part of the equation before, so why had the prospect crossed her thoughts now? As if blame lied with her for the isolation of past months, while grief and longing swirled with suffocating potency.

She’d learned well that allowing the door to close and lock itself would do harm only unto herself — the world would continue onward without mercy for a singular occupant, it could not afford to. Had he remained confined within his own emotions, Diluc wouldn’t be the person he was today, able to make rational decisions and extending sage advice. Despite the length of her time away from home, it wasn’t just in body had she remained a teenager, her heart and spirit still battled too with the clouding of complication that adolescence ushered. Wrought with a mixture of emotions clashing, the small curve ruptured without losing its earnest shape. “Thanks. I really needed to hear that. It’s hard to talk sense into yourself when it feels like you’re just shouting into the void, the sound of your own voice matching the one that feeds your doubts”.

Fingers ran across her lashes, sweeping away the tears that swelled, coming faster and warmer with his final sentiment. Misaki had never been much of anything — just an ordinary girl with an incredible memory, but that was it. In Hitsue, she was a remarkable student who was rough around the edges. In Hive and Spirale after, she was little more than a civilian just like those native to the cities; perfectly plain and easy to ignore. She was never one for the spotlight; in fact, she took lengths to avoid it, if necessary, but she couldn’t help the sheer disheartenment to feel nothing of value to offer, watching from the shadows, from far behind the strong.

“You’ve got a point. I’ve been cooped up a lot and visiting a handful of places for some air, but not more than that. Maybe a little trip to the City of Glass — it’s been a while. Is camping your style? You’re probably busy and mean it as a retreat for some soul-searching, but if you’ve got some time spare, it might do well to have a wise friend tag along”.

his reply comes in form of a nod first. “I understand. it takes time to lessen the voices within your own mind, if at all. one cannot expect to always be the perfect picture of happiness.” this he knows to be true from many encounters with others—and from his own past. nobody can possess a life entirely free of grief when things could go wrong at any moment.

“you’d like me to go with you? it has been a while since I’ve stayed outside overnight.” Diluc thinks on it carefully though not long, he doesn’t need much time to consider an answer. if it’s company she’s after, he could oblige on this occasion and perhaps a trip may refresh his mind as well. “alright then, I’d be happy to join. if you don’t have the necessary equipment, I can purchase what we’ll need. consider it my treat.” pulling a small piece of paper and a pen from his coat pocket, he makes quick note of the requirements then tucks them away for later.

now all that’s left is to set a date and time. not too soon, but not so long that Misaki misses the chance in case she returns home. it would be a shame to let an opportunity to spend more time with a friend slip by. “do you have an idea when you want to leave? I’ll need to plan in advance and make sure everything is in order.”

[ragnvindrdawn]

it's strange, the way he misses her hand as soon as it leaves his own, how absentmindedly he then places the other hand over that lingering warmth. he's a man with a few good friends in places, but Musashi is... different; like having someone you can trust with any secret, no matter what it might be. someone who one can share silence that doesn't cause discomfort or startle nerves. perhaps what Diluc might consider to be his most closest friend. it describes her importance well.

"I know." doesn't matter though, she would have received something from him regardless of giving one or not. but somewhere in those thoughts, it's already obvious which of those is true.

whatever the meaning of those last words, Diluc will remember them, the sentiment being mutual, of course. there's something about the way she says it, but who is he to assume. a promise then, surely. "patience can be overrated at times 一 or so some say, I'm sure." do they? he isn't actually certain. words served as more of a distraction, and a diversion of sorts, away from dangerous territory. "....you're worth more than you care to realise. I hope you see it for yourself someday."

that was just like diluc and his words earn a somewhat amused smile. yes, she didn't have to but she wanted to. one thing about the swordswoman is that nobody could make her do anything that she didn't want to do and even that extended to something as simple (or catastrophic in her case) as making some sweets for a good friend. one who she takes the time to quietly admire while his gaze remains focused on their hands.

it's an indulgence of sorts. while she's always been one to admire others without any sort of shame, speaking her mind regardless of the sorts of reactions it would garner, she doesn't quite do the same when it comes to him. it was something unspoken, and had remained as so for a long time. at least until his brother had rather casually pointed things out to her. (not that she'll ever speak of that encounter. kaeya has kept her secret thus far and so musashi will do the same in kind.) it has not changed anything: she continues to treat diluc as always. after all, even if this existence ends up being like an ephemeral dream, she would rather any memories he's left with remain untainted.

an effort to spare him the pain that ritsuka and mashu had to suffer.

" If you want to, I won't stop you. But this was a gift, okay? So don't worry too much about it!" here, finally, she lets go of his hand, choosing to clasp her own together and resting them in her lap while her gaze focuses off on something in the distance. " I'm not too good at being patient sometimes but for you, I can wait."

[ragnvindrdawn]

that display only causes a brow to raise in disbelief. anyone who trusts that is surely a fool, something he will not fall for. "are you? guess we'll have to wait and see." as for the last part, Diluc chooses to ignore it on this occasion.

"not at all, I only wanted to remind you — just in case you thought to do the same in this city." however, since he's been in a particularly good mood as of late, perhaps it can be taken as a gesture of goodwill. "I might consider allowing you one drink. anything more than that, you'll have to work for it, but I doubt that would be much trouble with your talent." if the bard wanted something to do as a favour, that is. then he'd gladly supply Venti's habits.

      ❝ You wound me! I’ll have you know that I’m always on my best behavior. ❞ Venti rests his free hand over his heart with a dramatic flourish, feigning mild offence before his expression settles into that of a cheeky wink. ❝ Were the Cavalry Captain here with us, I’m almost certain he’d help vouch for my character! ❞ He most certainly would not. Probably.

     ❝ Ehhhh, really? You’re worried about my tab even when we’re both who-knows-how-many worlds away from Angel’s Share right now?! You’re quite merciless indeed… ❞ Perhaps Venti spoke too soon? Suddenly he feels anything but relief in the barkeep’s presence. ❝ I mean… I guess I could give you what little Mora I have, but it’s apparently completely useless here. Is that really something you’d want to trouble yourself with? ❞

[ragnvindrdawn]

of course she would find such a thing fun, rather than a nuisance, or a waste of her time — maybe he'd already considered that without too much thought. it is one of the many good traits he admires about her though.

when she takes his hand to place something within it, the action comes as an unexpected move. not only that, Musashi felt it necessary to retain that hold. he's not sure of her reasons, he finds no will to complain either, not when he's far too occupied staring at both their hands. "while I appreciate the sentiment, you didn't have to—" he does realise one important thing. "...I don't have anything I can offer in return. not yet, at least." tomorrow isn't an option. that's when the discount rush begins. if she's willing to wait a little longer, Diluc could make something personally.

"once the excitement settles, I should be able to purchase some ingredients. you made an effort to create your own, it's only right that I do the same." at that, he finally smiles to himself, thumb gently pressing against her finger to signal a silent thanks. he fully intends to enjoy these treats later, during the hours spent unwinding from the day's events.

" Oh please, it wasnt any trouble. It was kinda fun-- like a little treasure hunt." his frown does not go unnoticed by her but she won't draw any attentiont to it. diluc owed her no explanation for why he wasn't at his home or work and she can guess that he was looking for some peace and quiet. there's no need to apologize for that and honestly, maybe it's for the best. today would be active enough but she knows tomorrow will be just as well, if not even more.

" It went smoothly. Everyone seemed to like it but, between you and me, I kinda bought their gifts. Last thing I wanted was for them to get not-so-good chocolate when they could have the good stuff." she can still smell the scent of burnt candy and musashi would not wish that on anyone to taste. except maybe that damn alter ego. "There's still one more I have to give, though."

her expression softens somewhat as she turns, reaching out to carefully take hold of one of his hands. with her other, she sets down a red treat bag onto his palm, carefully folding his fingers around it with her own. " Here. These were the only ones I made that came out fine. I wanted you to have them. "

[ragnvindrdawn]

the words make no sense and he frowns at that, confusion only growing. she's quite obviously not joining in by lingering around here. yes, she may have already handed out plenty, but there's still the rest of the day left.

"I see." his gaze returns to tree ahead, where his falcon is currently resting alongside an unlikely friend it had made. "against my better judgement, perhaps, I decided to remain off work today and tomorrow." Diluc insisted that Pikachu visits a friend for a while, which gave him time to do some cleaning and take a walk, leading him to his current seating. "apologies for the trouble if you checked my residence as well."

but that isn't important, he'd much prefer listening to details of her little trip. "how was your gifting spree? I'm sure they must have been popular among recipients."

it's cute. there were many possible reactions he could have had, confusion being the most likely one, but she still finds it cute yet for now, the saber decides to opt out of her usual teasing. what pikachu had divulged to her still remains in her mind. he looked well enough but she knows better than anyone that troubles aren't always just physical. but today is not the day for that and she's never been one to dwell on the bad.

" Hm? Who says I'm not? If I didn't, you would get upset like last time." he had been adamant that she joined in and it was not something she forgot. and despite her rather shameful attempts at making chocolate for scratch, she salvaged some that actually came out good, but they were only for one person. I just spent half the day running around this city handing things out and the last half hour trying to find you. I'm beat!"

[ragnvindrdawn]

it was always going to be the plan, due to the nature of the occasion; making sure the next couple of days were for time to himself. a recharge of sorts, if you will. there are always those few who wait last minute to purchase gifts. it's fine, he thinks, so long as everyone has a memorable day — but the rush isn't something he wishes to get caught in the midst of.

for all his thoughts, Diluc almost misses the fact someone has spoken. until he realises who the voice belongs to, and of course, the turn of his head confirms Musashi is standing right there. he isn't quite sure what to make of it yet. "here I am."

perhaps he should have said something else instead, despite the clear confusion. "...others are celebrating, are you not joining them?"

admittedly, this was going against her original plan and something that had become a spur of the moment decision. but, in the long run, she feels this is the better option. after all, she's always given her gifts in person. and besides-- Musashi hasn't seen Diluc since coming 'back' here.

finding him was the difficult part, but after a few dedicated hours, she spots a familiar red ponytail, the other seated on a park bench, the area rather empty for obvious reasons. so she draws closer, feet coming to a pause next to the bench. then, she leans to the side, lips pulled into a smile. "There you are. "

@ragnvindrdawn

[ragnvindrdawn]

"some of you are actually proud to admit you don't pay?"

[ragnvindrdawn]

genesismaiden​:

Silence had kept her cycling around in a rut for the better part of a decade, apprehensive about making much meaningful contact with anyone. Without putting much thought into it, her current state was much a reflection of those days — with few exceptions, the majority of her friends were memories and nothing more. It might not have been a complete relapse in letting down her walls, but neither was there a tight-knit circle who were ready to storm the guard and all but drag her out. Aichi trusted her to speak when something was on her mind, and offer support where he could — they were both grappling with the absence of their partners, and disappearance of one friend after another. Neither of them had regarded the island as a curse, or anything of the sort, but it had its downsides.

From the bog of thoughts, his tapping led her back to relative safety in the present moment. Her lips curved, brandishing not mischief or wit in their shape. His invitation was sincere, and had been from the very beginning; masking her appreciation behind light-hearted jest might send the wrong message. She was thankful in way words could not communicate — he had no reason to reach out to her and coax her from a hiding place, there were many others with whom he could form attachment and share whatever memories this place had in store for him. But he had reached out with a hand nevertheless, blazing eyes radiating against the darkness not to pass her by.

Had he been on the receiving end once himself? The similarities between the manner in which they carried themselves weren’t that difficult to recognise, but he was far more mature and put together. Azure monitored his fingers, locked in debate as to what path of those laid out was best to take. The very idea of dropping everything on his doorstep immediately left some discomfort wriggling around in the pit of her stomach. They’d met for lunch, tucked beneath the awning of a Golden café with not a great deal of activity, though out in the open nevertheless, for anyone to hear if they spoke any louder than hushed. But sooner or later, it would be there, perhaps a demon festering and looking to lash out, wouldn’t it…

If there was anything Aichi and Kai’s relationship had instilled, it was that bottling things up would only lead to disaster. Doing so had almost cost each of them the other. She might have had so little left to lose, but that was precisely the temptation that whispered into one’s ear before succumbing for the final time. “I don’t know how you do it.

You’re plenty serious, but you manage it as part of a perfectly balanced act that keeps the door open for someone else. I’ve never been the greatest at practicing the same, but there were people who were there whenever I crossed through that doorway, smiling and ready for whatever the next day would bring. When they dwindled until there was pretty much no-one left, I suppose the door started creaking closed again. People here have their friends already, what would they get from an awkward girl with a reputation fit for a fun police stereotype hanging around? So I didn’t act, haven’t for a long time.

But it’s a lonely way of life. I can’t remake myself and be so outgoing, jump into any outlandish conversation or naturally pull attention my way with charismatic charm. It feels more like i’ve run into a brick wall rather than remember where the door was to begin with”.

her point is perfectly understandable, there were times when certain emotions became difficult to ignore, leaning into the feeling of a sort of loss where to go from there. he’s seen it many times so it’s nothing new to bear witness to. since Misaki is the one under such strain, it doesn’t seem quite right and leaves some uncertainty in how to approach with an answer. “I wouldn’t say so... I tend to choose very carefully who I allow a view into my life. there are some I don’t wish to have dealings with, those are people I keep at arm’s length. many would say I’m unapproachable for this reason. it’s not something that worries me — in fact, I prefer it this way.” there’s a single exception to this rule but that is a complicated matter not to be touched upon. “all the same, I know how to keep things neutral unless given good reason to bite. most of the time, the bait isn’t worth the trouble so it’s best ignored.

...people will come and go at any moment. it’s better to have known them than missed out, you’ll only be left with regrets of what could have been if you allow the door to remain permanently closed. I’m sure you understand that well. and another thing, there’s no reason for you to change who you are to fit in, the statement is unnecessary. would it not be a lie, not only to yourself, but also the person you intend to befriend? if they wish to pass narrow-minded judgement without first getting to know who you really are, I count it as their loss. there are many others who would be quick to hold a friendship such as yours.” while he cannot personally think of any aside from himself, she’d surely meet willing parties along the way; ones who’d do whatever they could to keep her by their side as long as possible. Diluc doesn’t believe anyone is truly alone in the world. others have proven as much in regards to his own lone lifestyle.

“perhaps a change of scenery is in order to clear your thoughts? some time away to camp may well be just what you need — in a safe area, of course. I’d suggest home but as we both know, there’s no reliable way to return on demand.” the absences are always random, some are even brought back not long after. if there were a way to send her where she belongs, he’d do whatever within his capabilities to see it done. unfortunately it’s never that simple. “you’d be greatly missed, however, your comfort is far more important than these islands and anything they hold.” should Misaki eventually leave, he’d be one of the first, along with Aichi, to give a farewell fitting to her value as a friend. celebrations are not something he actively seeks to be part of, though if it’s for her then Diluc could persevere.

[ragnvindrdawn]

it's an unmistakable voice that calls for him, luckily he turns in time to catch the fruit carelessly thrown his way. who knows how the archon even came to obtain an entire bag. he doesn't wish to know either. "if it isn't the bard. I hope you're behaving, though I suppose that might be asking too much."

still, perhaps he should feel grateful to be considered reliable, even if Venti's view on the world is quite optimistic — not that Diluc would think poorly of himself, it's more a matter of not believing in self-importance. there are enough people out there who think so highly of themselves.

playing with the apple for a moment, he throws it into the air, catching it again before humming. "your lucky day, not mine if you intend to run up a tab here. speaking of which... don't think this means I'll forget you still owe payment. if we ever return, that is."

       ❝   Yoo-hoo! Master Diluc, over here!   ❞

      That’s about the only warning the man gets before Venti tosses him an apple from the paper bag currently nestled against his chest. It’s filled to the brim with even more of them, their color bright enough to even rival that of Diluc’s own hair! But as to how Venti got them in the first place, well… he paid for some of them, at least, though perhaps it’s best not to linger in the markets for too long.

      ❝   Hehe, I knew that sullen look was unmistakable. Must be my lucky day!    ❞   The bard punctuates his sentence with a cheeky grin, though completely fails to notice another apple tumbling from the bag as he shifts his weight.   ❝   Perhaps saying this is in poor taste, but I’m relieved to have found someone as reliable as you in this strange place~!    ❞

𝐃𝐈𝐋𝐔𝐂 𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐑     »     @ragnvindrdawn​