Posts by marte

❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

tracking xx

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

caprisun. I LOVE THOSE DRAWINGS SM THEY'RE SO CUTE ! you really captured yōko's unmotivated essence lmaooo

toucant yeah haha yōko is a butt :") i was thinking what if cassie confronted her about it and it caused some tension :0 what do u think ?

.smokey also i was wondering if maybe sophie and yōko could've been friends when they were younger and drifted apart when they got older but met back up again in the team and now its tense ? would u be down for that ? ^^;;;

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^{— A lonesome life was something outside of the sixteen year old's vocabulary. Growing up and living a life full of color, relationships, and support, Kanna found joy and comfort in the presence of others. Having been so used to such an active life, the idea of it crumbling down with one person disliking her was surely a crippling thought that lingered in the far outskirts of her mind. In order to prevent that from ever happening, she'll pull on her sweet smile and shine her endearing eyes and speak nothing but praise to others. It might not always come off as sincere, but she had to do what she must in order to maintain her reputation. She had to be adored, she had to be loved; if she wasn't there to support others and be liked, then what was the point in her existing? Humans by nature are very social creatures— she's only following her instinct, after all.}

^{Her attempts of being praised were anything but futile and it was clearly proven as so the moment she stepped into her new classroom. It was very nerve-wracking— one wrong move and you'll be shunned for the rest of your years. But the young girl made due, immediately shining a cutesy, closed-mouth smile as her arms were folded behind her back the moment she stood before the classroom. She can recall feeling the eyes bore into her like knives, knowing each and every student was evaluating what kind of person she'd be before she spoke. Placing their bets in their head; would she be sweet? Or maybe a secret delinquent? Would she even know how to speak Japanese? Her eyes had drifted over the classroom, assuming everyone was looking at her. Almost everyone. She could only begin to assume what they conjured up in their heads as she stood before them, the teacher announcing where she came from and the like.}

^{She practically jolted as her new teacher motioned for her to introduce herself, resulting in scattered giggles throughout the classroom. She prayed they were of good-intention and not mockery. She was born to make good first impressions; she wasn't going to lack in her expertise now. "Hello..! My name is Kanna Rousseau! I appreciate you all welcoming me into your class, I hope we can get along well!" She finished with a smile, bowing her head forward as her bangs draped over her face. If she had to give herself a rating, it'd be about a 8/10. There was always room for improvement, especially after her hesitant greeting. But, hopefully, it would be enough for the class.}

^{And she was right; she was welcomed with open arms the moment lunchtime began. She was immediately pulled back and forth between peers, questioned about if she was Japanese, if she could teach them English, if that was her natural hair color; things of the like. And, as simple as that, she was in. She captivated the hearts of her peers already; it wouldn't be too long until the teachers took a liking to her as well. She was in bliss knowing that she had made an even smoother transition than she hoped. It was the beginning of her smooth sailing through her school years here in Class 2-B.}

^{However, one thing still pestered from the back of her mind. She thought she captivated all her classmates, but she knew she hadn't. She just didn't want to admit it, but she could tell from her first time stepping in. There was a boy at the back of the class who's head was down her first day here; not looking at her. Did he have something against her already? Or was he already a closed-off character by default, even before she arrived? No matter what it was, she couldn't be completely satisfied. However, she'd rather keep her distance from him. If he did hate her, it'd be better for her to not say a thing to him so he couldn't use it against her. And if he didn't hate her, then surely he'd come up to her in due time. Either way, it wasn't something Kanna wanted to settle with, but she was too occupied pleasing her other new friends to be bothered to make any further attempts.}

^{Luckily for Kanna, she boasted more luck than she'd like to admit. The cards she was dealt were the kind to win you a poker game with ease. She was pulled aside by her homeroom teacher on a fateful day not too long after her worries began to accumulate in her mind. Greeted with the kind of endearment she was used to by now, her teacher asked her of a simple request. A request she was overjoyed to hear, but would have never imagined would shape her future the moment she came to execute it. It was a simple request that he asked of her; one that wasn't even mandatory and she could even turn down. It was to engage with a boy in her homeroom named Hoga Toju. At first, she was rather confused, having never heard the name before besides when attendance was called, but the further her teacher elaborated, the more set she was on the idea. She accepted his request without a second thought. Maybe now, she can ensure a good reputation throughout the entire classroom.}

^{Today was a simple day for her as school was never dull when she was around her friends. However, today might as well be different, as today she was going to talk to that boy. Of course, she had asked her friends about him before when it came to deciphering the proper time to approach him, but all their responses were tinted with malice and disinterest. Wanting to both preserve her status but still talk to him, she decided it'd be best to make her attempt during their cleaning hours after school. She memorized who was assigned where for today and was well aware that her peers would up and leave the classroom they were assigned. That left Hoga alone in that classroom, and that was her chance to strike.}

^{She leaned over the top of her broom, resting her chin atop her hands that were folded over the handle. She let out a sigh, blowing her bangs out of her face as her friends continued their conversation about what she could only assume was meaningless. She was counting down the time on the clock that hung at the end of the hallway. A few more minutes, and more of their friends will come by and veer them away somewhere else. All she had to do now was wait. With a few more ticks from the clock and the dissipating chatter, right on time came their other ground of classmates running down the hallway, their boisterous voices filling it up. They immediately pulled her and her other two friends away, announcing today's plan to be visiting a nearby ice cream shop. Kanna had already planned out how to evade them.}

<sup>She skidded to a stop, pulling away gently from their grasp as she pulled on a dumbfounded look. "Ah, I think I left my bracelet back in the classroom..! I'm sorry guys! I'll go find it, you go on ahead and I'll catch up to you!" She gave an apologetic smile, rubbing the back of her head as she held onto the handle of her broom with her spare hand. Her friends let out a sigh before going on their way, urging her to be quick. She could only reassure them even though she knew she wasn't going to be quick at all. She had other matters to attend to. Once they turned the corner and walked off, she immediately tucked her broom away into the storage locker, brushing her hands against one another. She took in a deep breath before making her way towards her homeroom classroom, slowly sliding the door open with a creak. She poked her head inside, looking around with wide eyes as the room was practically dead silent. Did she just nearly miss him?

Her worries were plundered as her gaze landed on the frail boy who seemed to freeze mid-cleaning. She slowly stepped inside, shutting the door behind her as she made her way towards her desk, she kept her gaze on him, but not for too long in fear of startling him. She leaned over, pulling out the small bracelet she planted and wrapping it around her wrist. It was now or never.</sup>

^{She slowly walked over to him, holding out a small rag of her own to catch his sights. She gave a small smile as she hoped for him to look up at her, attempting to reassure him with her kind demeanor that she meant no ill-will. "Need some help there?" She questioned, motioning towards his desk and the rest of the room that she assumed had yet to be cleaned. She tilted her head as she looked him over. He was rather... fragile. She felt as if one wrong move and he might accidentally snap in half. Hopefully that wouldn't be the case.}

^{She let her question linger in the air before leaning back on her heels, flicking her hair out of her face with a swift motion of her head. "I don't think we've ever really talked before, have we? It's kinda funny, since we're in the same homeroom and all..." Her voice trailed off, rather anxious as she felt like her words might not get through. For some reason, she was nervous. She hadn't faced anyone as mysterious as this boy before. She couldn't even begin to wonder what he was thinking with just a mere look. "It's never too late for introductions right? I'm Kanna Rousseau! And you are?"}

^{She kept her sight on him as she gauged his response, hoping that she pulled together the right kind of actions that wouldn't scare him away. She desperately wanted to make a good impression on him. At first, it bloomed from her fear of being rejected, but now that she stood before him and got a good look at him, she couldn't help but be curious. What was he like? Was there a reason she had yet to hear a peep from him until now? It all floated through her head. Something compelled her to befriend him more than just a simple teacher's request now.}

^{(( hi hi! hope this is alright for you! i really liked the plot and i couldn't resist :) i hope the length is ok ;;}

❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

.smokey awesome!! i was thinking maybe they were really good friends in middle school but once they reached high school, they both had separate goals and had a clash and parted ways but ended up on the same team ironically and have yet to talk. and then they could either continue to like barely talk to each other and pretend they were never friends before this until now or one of them actually confronts the other (probably not yōko ;;) how does that sound ?

saena. that sounds rlly interesting ! i can already imagine yōko not caring until she gets annoyed that they have to end up practicing more bc the rest of them want to prove them wrong when she doesn’t ;;

also on the crushes stuff, it sure sounds interesting but i’d doubt seeing my girl develop any :”) however... i do see her leading someone on but not on purpose... :^)

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

i was thinking the same as capri w the school rivalry for it to be val’s old teammate’s team tbh but i was thinking maybe her team was one that they encounter at a later time? like at a reallyyy important match that determines if they continue in the brackets or not kind of intense, like a bigger threat than their current rival team yknow ? it’s all up to feeless tho ;

and yess i was thinking about jersey numbers too! i think yōko’s is probably one of the first few numbers like 1-4 ? since she’s an upperclassman and all

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

since we’re claiming i’ll shoot for 2 for yōko then ! i’d assume nia would be 1 as captain ?

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

.smokey yeah you got it right lol ! and for a shot in the dark that's pretty accurate loll i like that idea though, i was thinking they'd both just have different ideas for their path in lives when they reach high school that they can't even see a common ground like they used to leading to their argument and falling out

i feel as if the argument would be very intense too; maybe even possibly the reason why yōko doesn't like getting close to people anymore

saena. as for yōko and her nickname for niana, she'll probably call her nia or greyson

and i'd put up yōko to witness that bc i think it'd be interesting, but i feel like she tolerates her more than dislikes her so idk if it'd work as well ;;

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

tracking xx i adore the concept ! would it be alright if i could reserve the angel ? x

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

hi there ! is this still open by chance ? i’d love to do this thread if so !

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❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

that's alright ! i'm in the same boat, it's no worries :) i'll get my form and a starter up in a bit

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^{— The soft hum of a piano filled up the hall, the chatter, clinks of glasses, and laughs of aristocrats filling up the rest of it. The plucks of string instruments to accompany the chords of the grand piano filled the young noble's ears in an attempt to block out the pointless conversations taking place around him. He sat atop a small staircase on a large throne-like chair accented with the most complex of designs, practically screaming out that both him and his family were of wealth. Personally, he despised the outlandish furniture, but he had to make due. He had already made his round about the hall at the beginning of the night, giving warm welcomes and thanks to his guests for hours. With simply that, the blooded already had his fill of conversation that he deemed worthwhile, so he would only sit back and observe.}

^{He enjoyed playing a small game with himself; guessing what each group of guests were talking about and how pointless it was. It was, at least, something to occupy his time with as he couldn't run off to his books or something more fitting for him. His eyes turned to fall on his father, spying his arm wrapped tenderly around Antoine's step-mother as he conversed with a noble from a different region. The sight appalled him. He knew his father used to discuss meaningful manners with others; foreign affairs, military updates, the like. However, now that his birth mother was out of the picture and a new, younger and human lady was by his side, he had let himself go far too much. The duke could only shake his head with a chuckle, knowing that despite his disapproval, he still begged for his father's appraisal.}

^{He bore no luck with the addition of another family as well, his step-sister the epitome of a child fed a silver spoon. She brought trouble for him and his sister, believing she was on par with them despite her wretched personality and human ancestry. Yet, somehow, she managed to blend in better with the crowd than him, talking up others with ease and fitting right in as if she was blooded herself. He wasn't jealous, but more so disappointed to know that those of his race would take in such a nasty girl as one of their own. He bore no hatred towards humans, but he surely made an exception for his step-family that didn't even have to try to prove him otherwise.}

^{The more he looked the hall, the more sick he felt. It was all pointless, meaningless and anything except worth his time. He found no peace of mind standing amongst these people, even if they were of similar or higher ranking. It was boisterous and a poor excuse to "let loose"; even though more than half of those standing or dancing here 'let loose' every other day. He felt anything but at ease here even if the ball was for him. He wasn't even on board with the idea at all⁠— it was forced onto him without a chance for him to refute it.}

^{Antoine had enough of the scene, drained of will to sit there for a minute longer. He slowly rose from his chair, his gloved fingers gripping onto the arm rests as he pushed himself up. He glanced around, tugging his sleeves to fix them before stepping down the stairs. His boots clicked against the marble, but the music and voices of those around him drowned it out like it was nothing. He looked around the room once more, now at the same ground level as the rest of the invited, yet still towering over them at his height. His eyes landed on his sister, his face lightly softening at the sight of her. He gave her a firm nod, knowing his gesture would get through to her and she'd cover for his absence. With that settled with, he slipped past the crowd, giving the occasional wave or smile before reaching the furthest hallway. He looked behind him, making sure he wasn't followed before pushing against the large doors.}

^{The young man stepped outside into the garden, immediately met with the cool, December air that contrasted the humidity produced from the hundreds of bodies inside the hall. His shoulders relaxed as he shut the door behind him, folding his hands in front of him as he stepped forward. The night sky was clear; not a single cloud in the sky obstructing the stars above. The hum of the music could still be heard from beyond the wall, but it was much more muffled.}

^{Marble pillars lined the very ends of the garden, multiple statues of the same material adorning the place. An assortment of flowers, shrubbery, and stones filled up the rest of the garden, showcasing its beauty. In the center stood a small gazebo that had a view of the entire grounds, and further beyond that sat a small, man-made waterfall that filled up a large pond and flowed out towards the rest of the waterways throughout the plot. He made his way towards the pond, crouching down to take a look at the koi fish that swam about.}

^{He was almost jealous of the fish; being able to swim about in a well-kept environment with no worries was surely a life many would like to lead. It was a nice thing to imagine, surely, but Antoine knew that his duties were far more important than a life of nothingness. If he wanted to live like the fish he watched, he'd simple settle down like every other noble inside that place. He didn't want that for himself, not at all.}

^{He pulled himself up, straightening his posture as he walked towards the gazebo. He took a seat on a bench, leaning back ever so slightly as he threw his head back to look up at the intricately cut stone ceiling. He caught sight of the stars in his peripherals and the sound of rushing water behind him further calmed his nerves. For the first time tonight, he felt at ease, the worries that plagued his mind dwindling into nothing. Had it not been for the presence of this garden, he surely would have lost himself long ago, but at least, for now, he can relax. He only hoped that nothing and no one would interrupt his peace, but, as things go, a ball was still going on, and it surely wouldn't be long until someone else stepped in.}

^{(( aa hope this is alright :")}

^{— Antoine’s head remained tossed back, practically lost in a trance as he eyed each detail etched into the ceiling with intensity. Something as simple as this was enough to occupy his time, and it felt much better than spending another second in that environment that laid beyond the metal doors. He was lost in his own daze as he thought about things that genuinely mattered to him. How he wished his real mother was present, how he’d go about with new responsibilities now that he was of age; things that he wouldn’t normally think about on an everyday basis were the topics that filled his mind. It was a good feeling, to be able to let his mind wander without worry for once. For a busy fellow like him, opportunities like this came across once in a blue moon after all.}

^{So encapsulated by the thoughts that surfaced, Antoine hadn’t even noticed the arrival of someone else in the garden at first until they had approached closer from the east side of it. At first, he payed no mind to them, cherishing his last moments of solitude as he assumed they’d notice him in due time, but their lack of sound or even mention of him was off putting. They were clearly close by, so why was it that they chose to not address him? He was offended at the mere thought, hoping that wasn’t the case.}

^{Too curious for his own good, he couldn’t help but sit up, his head straightening out to face the garden once more. The lack of even a greeting irked him. Of course, no one needed to address him if they didn’t want to, but the absence of even a question as to why he’s out here unsettled him. His pride couldn’t help but get to his head a bit— was it purposeful ignorance?}

^{His eyes were drawn to a red that contrasted against the entire garden, the color standing out like a sore thumb. As he focused his eyes more, he took notice that it was indeed another person. Confirming that fact only further begs the question as to why they didn’t address him or notice him at all. He was seated in the smack middle of the garden; it would be hard to miss him even if they wanted to.}

^{It wasn’t a lady in waiting or a butler or anyone of the sort either; the cloth and design of the person’s fabric made it clear that they came from nobility. He stood up and walked over to the edge of the gazebo closest to the east side, attempting to get a better look at the stranger. He was able to decipher them being another male— around his age, as well. Certainly, there had to be good reason as to why he didn’t take notice of him at all instead of just blatantly ignoring him. However, Antoine couldn’t confidently say that this was first time he had ever been ignored. With his cold face, it was a more frequent occurrence than he’d like to admit.}

^{He could have just let it be at that— let the other young man mind his own business and him his own, but the way he presented himself as he wandered about only further piqued his interest. Although the young man didn’t lack confidence in his step, he still proceeded with hesitancy, maybe even worry, and looked as if he was ready to draw his blade if something were to suddenly approach him. Antoine watched as he almost fell into the pond, a mere second away from dashing over before the young man caught himself mid step. It practically gave him a heart attack, but he couldn’t help and question how he didn’t see the pond at all. It was right in front of him, and yet he proceeded as if nothing was there. It struck him as odd.}

^{Antoine kept his sights on the young man discreetly, playing it off as if he was minding his own business whilst he observed out of the corner of his eyes. His brows arched up as the young man suddenly took off, heading straight towards the gazebo. Antoine’s head immediately snapped to watch him, unable to keep his gaze away for long. The more this young man proceeded, the more questions popped up in his head. He’d cross him off as just a paranoid individual, but from what he’s seen, he knew the other noble was surely more than that.}

^{The duke’s head suddenly went blank as he watched the red clad male’s foot clip the end of the gazebo, his figure falling forward. Without a second though, Antoine immediately sprinted forward, skidding over to Amasa and catching him in his arms. He looked down, coming back to his senses to realize he had stopped his fall in a catch that resembled a hug. He felt his mind go blank once more, any coherent thoughts sizzling away with embarrassment. He cleared his throat, slowly lowering himself to help the stranger stand back up before pulling his arms away and folding them behind his back.}

^{It all struck him odd— the standoffish movements of the stranger, the fact he almost fell in a pond, his mad dash towards the gazebo that almost resulted in him eating the ground, but most of all, the fact that Antoine sprinted to help him without second thought. He had many questions to ask, much to say that was on his mind since the moment he took note of the other’s presence, but something in him told him now wasn’t a time to bombard the male with questions.}

^{”Are you alright, sir? You seemed to be.. running from something? Is everything ok?” His baritone voice was smooth as he sincerely questioned him, an underlying husk to his tone as a result of having already worn his voice out at the beginning of the night. He started with a simple question, one any decent person would ask after helping someone from almost taking a tumble.}

^{As he awaited a response, Antoine surveyed the stranger closer, taking note of what he hadn’t noticed before. As his gaze trailed up to his face and met his eyes, that’s when it all seemed to click. His sharp grey eyes met the glossed over eyes of Amasa as it all finally pieced together in his head. His behavior, his lack of spatial awareness, and now the eyes; it all became quite clear to Antoine now that the prince standing before him was blind. It was a relief to finally get a solid answer to his minute inquiries, but now, only a bigger question arose; who was this young man?}

^{He always did research on his guests before, but he never really managed to remember well until engaging in proper conversation. He might as well begin now then if he wanted to learn more about this sightless stranger.}

^{”My apologies, it’d be rather rude of me to not introduce myself. I am Antoine Ferreira, pleasure to make your acquaintance. I apologize for reiterating myself with this question but, are you alright?”}

^{— His gaze rested on the male, watching him fidget about over the simplest of things. Did he present himself wrong? Antoine didn't think he did anything to put off the stranger, but then again, going about life with a lack of sight surely had to be much more troubling. He watched him back up into the railing of the gazebo whilst he stayed put in his position. There was no reason to close the gap, and if the other person wanted to distance themselves further from him, then so be it. His brow raised at the bow. He had to admit, he was caught rather off guard at the gesture. Although he was more than used to others bowing before him, someone of similar age doing the same always had a different feel to it. His shoulders relaxed as he heard the words of reassurance, pulling his arms back out in front of him to tug at his sleeves.}

^{Antoine couldn't help but be intrigued at the individual, never having met someone with a disposition such as his. The person standing before him wasn't someone he recognized either— even after taking a better look at him. Could he be from a farther region? Or perhaps he was someone his step-mother recommended inviting? He tilted his head at the small laugh and repetition of his name, feeling blood rush to his cheeks despite it being something so simple. Why was this other person's simple chuckle something that rendered him weak? Was it a hex, perhaps? He couldn't register it.}

^{However, his rushing thoughts over something so minimal came to a halt as the noble before him spoke up, giving his well-mannered comment about the ball. He couldn't help but chuckle as well now, shaking his head ever so slightly. Whether it was genuine or simple out of being polite, he couldn't help but disagree with it himself. The male would never be fond of events like these— always praying for them to end the moment they began. It was a waste of precious time and he would repeat it to himself as much as he needed to. The only good thing that arose from these types of events were possible connections with other officials or people of the like, but even then, those as poised as them ended up abandoning those duties for a drink as the night would go on. He only gave a nod in return to the comment, hoping it was at least felt since it clearly would not be seen. He couldn't find himself to conjure up a verbal response due to his own nature. It wasn't necessary, anyways, and he could only hope it didn't come across as too pompous.}

^{The more the other spoke, the more peculiar he became to Antoine. Why was he apologizing? Especially if he believed such a thing was happening to him. He could only assume that others felt the innate need to apologize for minuscule more than he ever could. "It's no problem, truly. I'd rather assist than watch you fall, after all." His mind was too engulfed in the oddities of the person rather than who they were that the idea of figuring him out slipped his mind for a second; a second that allowed Amasa to cover his crest without Antoine taking notice at all. He glanced around the garden, making sure that the two truly were alone. It'd only be more of a hassle if someone else were to creep up on them. Averting his attention away from this individual was the one thing he wasn't really keen on having at this moment— a thought that even he himself found odd, knowing that he normally tried to end conversations as quickly as possible. But yet, the more he talked to him, the more he wanted to know. The lack of knowing his identity was something he didn't know he needed. For once, he was talking to someone else as they were; no titles involved. Although it could be a simple ruse for someone to get information out of Antoine, he knew better than to let that happen if it was the case.}

^{He tilted his head to hear the worry shifted onto him, taken aback. Someone asking how he was? That was new. He opened his mouth to speak, practically at a loss for words. His mouth moved without a peep being spoken, making him look like a completely speechless fool. He had to admit, he was rather glad the person in front of him couldn't see him right now— it was an expression he didn't even know he could make. He cleared his throat, his gloved hand reaching up to brush the tassels on his shoulder as a means of distraction. He couldn't help but return the chuckle once again, it coming out as a natural response. "I'm quite alright, it was no trouble, really."}

^{Despite his previous pleas to have some alone time, Antoine couldn't help but stay drawn to the person, wanting him to stay more than leave. It was a first, honestly. Did he believe this man could actually become a friend? Or even...- No. Getting close to people was the beginning of someone's end— he knew that like the back of his hand. Getting into any relationship or friendship would only lead to your downfall; it was a motto that he etched into his head himself long ago. He followed it faithfully, never thinking against his own word. But right now, he couldn't help but bend the rules he set for himself just a little. He wasn't getting close to anyone.. it was just simple conversation he wanted to prolong. Nothing wrong with taking part in some chatter he was actually fine with, right? Besides, surely nothing more would come out of this.}

^{"I hope you don't mind my asking, but what brings you out here rather than staying in there? Did something not meet your standards? I can get it fixed immediately." His second question was a measly attempt of a joke on his part. It felt unnatural to attempt to be lighthearted, but he'd rather deal with that than continue to stand in silence.}

^{— He watched the other fidget about with the structure of the gazebo, assuming he was trying to get a better sense of his surroundings. His eyes were hesitantly peeled off the male as he looked around the garden, taking in the beauty he originally intended to admire before the arrival of another. With each passing moment, he couldn’t but try to jog his memory further of who exactly this individual could be. He wasn’t able to grasp a full understanding of who was invited due to the fact that his father wanted to take the burden off of his hands, knowing he’d study each individual relentlessly. What was done in an attempt to lift some weight off of Antoine’s shoulders had only set more of a burden on top of them. He brought his hands in front of him to fold them over his chest, lightly shaking his head the more he dwelled on the topic. It was truly a shame, considering his growing curiosity for the individual.}

^{He immediately lifted his head at the sound of Amasa’s voice responding to his question, his attention pinpointing on him yet again. He let him finish his thought before giving a small chuckle, unable to contain the fact that the slight comment humored him a bit. “I see. I can’t necessarily do much about that in particular, but I know the feeling all too well; they become more of a burden than a help at times.” He let another bit of laughter escape his lips before shaking his head once more. The dislike of the crowd and now such a comment about pesky guards only further interested Antoine about him. It was more so becoming a refreshing feeling now; having lighthearted conversation with someone his age who understands. He couldn’t recall the last time he genuinely enjoyed a conversation like this even if he tried. It was certainly a nice feeling, although he was well aware it would all be fleeting. Once the night would come to an end, who knows when the next time he’ll talk to this noble or another similar person would be. However, there was no harm in enjoying what he can cherish now, he supposed.}

^{A small ‘Hm?’ was emitted from his closed mouth as Amasa began to speak with him once more, his attention yet again completely on him. He tilted his head at the question, wondering if it was really that odd of him to talk to others in such a way that it brings the person to inquire about it. “Ah, as for myself, I simply came out here for a better peace of mind. It’s hard to think in there amongst such loud individuals. And as for conversing with you, I believe there’s no harm in familiarizing myself with-“}

^{His rather formal response was cut short by Amasa’s sudden movement followed up with another voice filling the air. Even a fool could piece together what was beginning to happen. Antoine could only assume it was the guard Amasa had mentioned earlier, but the use of ‘your highness’ threw him for a loop. He shifted his gaze back to see the look on the other’s face, his discomfort by the guards presence very much evident. His eyes couldn’t help but be drawn to the loosening of his cloak, watching it fall back only to catch sight of the crest. Followed up with the yell of the guard, his identity was finally confirmed to Antoine.}

^{So this was who the mystery stranger was— Prince Amasa. He couldn’t forgot such a name, his mind drifting back to what he had heard about him years prior. He never really cared for such pointless conversations, but as he further recalled the bits and pieces he managed to pick up from listening, he could only begin to see even more similarities between them. He had so many questions now that he is well aware, but as he further gauged the situation, it was clear that this wasn’t the place nor time. Right now, all he knew that Amasa was uncomfortable, and the displeasure of others always reflected onto him.}

^{He expected Amasa to sigh and give a farewell or simply walk right off, but the shift in his expression threw the duke off completely. The gleam in his eyes accompanied by the smirk wasn’t what he expected, and the extension of his hand towards him only further puzzled the noble. His determination was admirable, but he wasn’t so sure if it was really appropriate.}

^{“Run?” The simple question echoed through his head. His first thought was an immediate no; it was childish and poorly mannered as well as nothing but troubling. If they were to go, it would be nothing but troublesome. However, he couldn’t help but feel something rise up from behind the automated responses in his head. Was it the thrill? The idea of spiting the entire occasion and going off to who knows where? He’d rather spend more time alone elsewhere in the company of Amasa rather than sit back in his lonesome in the garden until another, much more annoying individual came along. He couldn’t help but selfishly wanted to continue their conversation as well, feeling a natural draw to him since the beginning of their interaction. Despite the thoughts in his head that were planted to force him to say no, he simply couldn’t pass up this opportunity. It was his birthday after all, he might as well enjoy it.}

^{Antoine gave his answer as he reached a gloved hand out to take a firm hold of Amasa’s, giving a simple nod before turning to glance around the garden. He eyed the guard and their distance away from him, thinking up the best possible way to escape from here. He knew the grounds like the back of his hand, so it didn’t take very long to think something up. He looked over his shoulder and reached his spare hand forward, snapping his fingers. The flowers and shrubbery immediately erupted up from their pots and the ground, extending upwards to block the guard’s view and path.}

^{Although he bought much more time with that gesture, it wouldn’t be long until the flora would return back to their proper places. He gently tugged Amasa closer to him, his free hand extending his own cloak out to wrap it around the male. “Hold on if you don’t want to repeat another fall,” he commented with a chuckle before pushing his feet off the ground, bursting out into a swift run towards the west side of the garden. He made sure Amasa stayed close to prevent him from falling over or straggling behind and that he could keep up with him, a firm hold helping him ensure that. As they traversed through the other side of the garden, he finally skidded to a halt by the metal doors that led back into hall. He kept the prince concealed with his cloak before pushing the doors open with a creak.}

^{Stepping inside, he turned around and closed the door behind them, locking it before looking down the empty hallway. His room was too risky as well as any other area pertaining inside the castle. It wouldn’t be long before one guard tells another and a background game of hide and seek begins. He motioned towards the stairwell that sat in the shadows towards the left, it leading both upstairs and downstairs. He glanced over his shoulder once more, making sure no one would catch sight of either of them before guiding Amasa as they descended. The click of his boots echoed throughout the stairwell even louder the farther they descended, the noises of the event becoming muffled once more.}

^{He finally came to a halt at the bottom of the stairs, looking around. Their environment, simply put, was one of many entrances to the tunnel system beneath the property used for emergency purposes. Personally, Antoine never found himself in these parts unless he was going to one certain place, which was where he was going to lead his companion tonight. “This way,” he murmured quietly, directing Amasa to the left as he took hold of his hand. After some silent walking, Antoine came to a halt once more, looking up at a small ladder hidden far away from the main tunnels. He let the prince ascend first, assuring him that he followed right behind before doing just that.}

^{He peeped his head up to look at the surface once more, pulling himself up onto the grass before looking around at the clearing. The air was certainly much chillier than it was in the garden, but it had much more of a free feel to it rather than confined. The noises of the hall were now only a distant echo beyond a few trees that sat behind them. He looked around, spying the bench he was all too familiar with facing towards the castle as well as a refurbished playhouse standing not too far behind it. “I used to come here during my youth; I doubt your guard or even any of mine would be able to find us here anytime soon. I hope this will suffice.” He stepped back a bit, letting the other collect his thoughts after such an escape. Antoine could only help it satisfied his mischievous desires.}

^{(( aa sorry i hope leading amasa over to the place is alright w u ;; i wouldn’t wanna accidentally powerplay it}

❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

i'd love to still be a part of it too !

❌❌

❝whether we die or not isn't really that big a deal.❞

track xx im bringing back yōko for sure !

❌❌

^{— tracking xx}

^{yōko is up for plotting! i'll probably do some new char opinions in some time like last plotting thread}

^{+ i'd love for anything w her honestly, she's really stone-cold tho lmao}

^{—  Casandra-Brando honestly yeah i can see that happening !}

^{akashi's like 'yōko u see this shit?' and yōko's like 'they're too pathetic for a glance', just a straight up nasty duo to see on the court at the same time}