intro ♚ july

[boardmaster]

WELCOME TO CAISSA

We’ve all had those dreams: you wake up on a table, to blurry, ominous images and the certainty that you are absolutely buck-naked in a room full of strangers. This is not quite it.

Instead, you come awake to the sun on your face. The soft burble of water nearby. The hustle and bustle of a busy street and the faint, fortifying smell of bread. You open your eyes and there’s no one there at your bedside, but there is what appears to be the end of the world happening just beyond your window.

There’s a crack in the world across the sky, the “sun” is the totally unnatural light spilling from that crack straight into your eyes, and someone’s left a neatly pressed and folded uniform at the foot of the bed that isn’t yours. Somewhere in the room, there’s a strange clatter like beads, the click of claws on the floor.

Something’s in here with you.

Also, you are naked.

ONE ♟ Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo

Your Carriers and the floor nannies in your rooms relay, in unison and in the curt voice of Secretary Alexandre Verdoni, a public service announcement informing all Heroes of the Delphine Grand Ball, a masquerade hosted by the Gammonian Embassy to celebrate the Heroes’ successful defeat of Noir in the Lasker Incident and the safe arrival of international foccer superstar, Ryder Wreckham. It will be held tonight at 6 PM at the White Rose Multipurpose Function Building. There will be dancing, a live orchestra, a buffet and flowing drinks, and plenty of Blanc’s finest to schmooze with, so don’t miss it! The abrupt and lavish invitation might rattle the new arrivals, but those who’ve been here longer don’t seem surprised, and many don’t look very pleased, either.

Masks and formal wear are both said to be an absolute must, but if you’re strapped for cash or festive spirit, you could get away with wearing a clean Hero uniform. But why would you when Gammon’s elites are willing to provide Heroes with complementary masks, suits and dresses precisely for the occasion? And if you need any help with your clothes, hair, makeup, or date, don’t hesitate to ask your friends or the Hall of Glory’s maids and butlers for help.

As you get ready for the ball, your floor nannies may flip through a few radio stations to set the mood; one of them just so happens to be airing Voices from the Other Tide, a popular radio show based in Lasker’s The Shield. Its target audience is comprised of international refugees and immigrant communities, so you may have caught the show before during your stay in Lasker or your visits to Sparrow Towns all over the country.

Rocco Ricci: You are listening to Voices from the Other Tide! This fine Delphine evening, the suns are shining, the moons are just about to change color, and do YOU know where your trains are? I’m your host, Rocco Ricci, coming to you live from the center of The Shield! We’ve been looking at the fallout of the latest chapter in the war with Noir, the railway attacks that happened a few weeks ago right here in the heart of our very own city. I have with me today Nokoru Nokozaki, and it’s about that time. Time to let the survivors have their say, eh? What do you say, Nokozaki?

Nokoru Nokozaki: Ah, I’d like to say thank you for inviting me, and thank you very much for doing this show. I apologize if I am not able to give many clear answers, it was a very confusing time. A very confusing trip. I still don’t know how I survived, to be honest.

Ricci: Don’t sweat it, no sweat, eh? I’ll be asking all the questions and giving you half the answers, all you need to do is work with me and give our listeners a taste of what it was like, getting trapped in the middle of all that. Explosions and magic fireworks and what was that I heard, the Blanc military running around like chickens with their heads up their—

Nokozaki: Yes, thank you very much. It was a normal trip, to visit family in the— in The Shield, I believe you call this? I am not a refugee, but I know many who tried to settle in what we call the Blackest Empire, and tried to start again in the Lawless Lands, and failed. They came here, looking for something. I came here to see how they lived.

Ricci: Right, right, that’s how it always goes, isn’t it? Better bacon, better wallpaper, it’s what we’re all here for. Why, back when I was a— [ a sudden whine of feedback ] … Thank you, thank you, I’ll have that mic back. A recap for our listeners, a train with some 800 refugees was attacked and destroyed by Noir infiltrators just a couple weeks ago! Nokozaki here is one of the very few survivors. My condolences. Condolences.

Nokozaki: Thank you… It was lucky for me, I was in the mines in Shatranj. I have endurance, you know, I can walk very long distances without food, without water. No shelter. In the mountains we passed through, there is only bad weather. And when they blew up the train cars, we had to walk home on our own. Ah, but not home, you understand.

Ricci: I sure do. What was it, there was a rumor you came back with Commander de Lisbrand of the Blanc brass? There’s a firecracker if I’ve ever seen one — not that I’ve clapped my own eyes on her yet, may I be blessed — word has it she was stranded up in the mountains all on her lonesome for a while when Noir blew the whole army off the map, and she walked her fine self back to civilization! Why, we could do a whole segment on that alone!

Nokozaki: Is that not what we are doing? I assumed… I was to talk about my experiences marching with the Lady de Lisbrand, they are calling it the Iron March, I hear? She was not alone, but trapped in the mountain with a very small number of soldiers. And us, we were in the car with them when the bomb went off, but we did not know what had happened then. Only after we returned to Lasker…

Ricci: Oh, we know all about the Iron March! Is it true you all had to survive on rock moss and wild mountain cat?! Our listeners have gone wild with speculation! [ some rustling and clearing of throat ] But of course, of course you’re quite traumatized, I’m sure. A very difficult time. This is just one of many, many stories we’ve heard coming out of the Sorokina Mountains in recent days, and many more of them feature our Lady de Lisbrand. Stay tuned for some important upcoming guests, several of whom are still searching for family members gone missing in the chaos…

Despite the flurry of preparations and rumors flying about the ball in every alleyway, not everyone is interested in Delphine’s most prestigious event. Many of Caissa’s most eligible maidens have never danced at something so public! Some otherwise upstanding citizens just can’t be bothered to go, especially since they’re not the ones getting sponsored for free clothes. What’s the point in dropping half a year’s worth in wages on a fancy suit and tie or a ball gown?

For those who don’t wish to have anything to do with Blanc’s upper echelon or its martial celebrations, Uptown Caissa is abuzz with the biggest civilian event of the month: Festivale de la Ceinturonne, named after the sparkling, silver galaxy you can see on clear, summer night skies.

How about you, Hero? Which celebration will you choose? Or perhaps you'd like to double dip?

TWO ♟ Delphine Grand Ball

As two men in dapper suits greet you with synchronized bows and throw open the doors to the grand ballroom, the mellow strains of a live orchestral waltz flow out, filling the extravagant hall with the sound of soulful strings and whimsical woodwinds. Beautifully-dressed dancers move in pairs on the marble floor, swaying and gliding under a brilliant, crystal sky of chandeliers. The large, open arches that line the west side of the hall are decorated with massive velvet curtains that billow gently in the night breeze and hide both shyer dancers and small tables of finger foods. Young, passionate couples and colleagues in cahoots alike—sometimes it’s hard to distinguish the two—throng the balconies outside, enjoying the clear starred sky and the glow of Oubliette close at hand.

The crown jewel of the evening is, of course, the exquisitely bedecked and room-length tables laden with high-class food and drink the likes of which neither you nor the vast majority of ordinary Caissans have ever seen or heard. And they keep bringing out more! No spot on the table is to be left bare for the remainder of the evening! (Gerald, Hall of Glory Head Butler, highly recommends the champagne!) Some tables, however, might hold familiar dishes from French and British—er, Blanc and Gammonian cuisine. Most eye-catching are the tiered displays of pastel marshmallow cups and the tall and ornate fondue fountains of cascading chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. They’re a homage to the mallow-colored moon of Delphine, the goddess of love, and tradition suggests you share a mallow with someone you care about.

Blanc’s richest and most influential are all present and accounted for. If they’re not waltzing or eating caviar, then they will be conversing among themselves over exquisite wine. Some try to catch the attention of Ryder, whose giant and suspiciously realistic fur coat and suit look wholly inappropriate for the weather. He smokes an expensive-looking pipe encrusted with diamonds while a small, diligent bodyguard serves as his very own footrest. Prime Minister Thierry Toussaint mingles with the noblest of families, his mask adorned with feathers that fall nearly to the floor. Both individuals are as sought after as they are difficult to approach… You’d have better luck simply mingling with other VIPs and soliciting their opinions.

Most are full of hot air and idle gossip, but some express open discontent with Ryder’s views; must be that speech he made a while ago. Others take issue with the Prime Minister’s handling of affairs; still others have whispered doubts of Secretary Verdoni’s loyalties to share with you; Commander de Lisbrand does not escape scrutiny either, despite not being present. There’s also talk of the new wave of Blanc leadership, though you can never quite get a name to go with the ambitious rumors. However, you will notice that, despite their poisonous tongues, Blanc’s best and brightest seem to be quite taken with you!

This is your chance. What you say to the VIPs can influence their opinions of Blanc’s leadership, the Lasker incident, and Blanc’s course of action from here on out, for better or for worse. (You are allowed to control the unnamed VIP NPCs. What did you tell them?)

THREE ♟ Wish Upon A Star

Maybe you looked at the people around you, the ones you’d be dancing and schmoozing and seen with in the papers the morning after, and thought, ”Not happening.” Perhaps the ballroom is too grand, the people too snazzy, or the music too classy; it makes your head spin right round. Some fresh air and eavesdropping on the veranda may just clear your head.

On the way out, you may notice a certain someone sitting at one of the veranda tables, surrounded by paperwork and a delicately stacked pile of beignets. Shouldn’t Secretary Verdoni allow himself to celebrate for once in his life? Upon closer (and discreet) inspection, it looks as if the paperwork is exclusively composed of reports on the Lasker incident. Does Verdoni look increasingly unhappy the deeper he digs into the stack? It’s also possible his face is just stuck that way.

It may be best to leave him to his work; though trying to engage him in conversation will lead to:

Verdoni Do I look like I have the time to speak with you? [ he says briskly, but relents quickly ] Perhaps just a moment. The situation in Lasker is improving, thanks to your efforts. Well done. Your work in reaching out to residents of The Shield has eased tensions, though it’s still a long ways away from what I’d consider good. Of course, our work is never done. [ his gaze flicks back to the paperwork before him; it’s clear by ‘our’ he means ‘my’ ] That’s not even getting into the reports I’ve been hearing from Petrosian. People disappearing, strange things in the river… it may be nothing, but keep your eyes open.

Should you leave the premises entirely and walk on through Uptown Caissa, you’ll find the chance to experience an entirely different aspect of Blanc culture. Around this time of the year, the week-long Festivale de la Ceinturonne is taking place in the streets and skies of the capital: the people of Caissa are heavily encouraged to write poetry about their dreams and desires so as to receive blessings from Delphine, goddess of love and the arts. These small wishes are folded and tied to trees around the Oubliette Temple Shrine.

Many commoners appear cheerful as they gather and offer their wishes to Delphine. The bright, star-shaped lanterns hanging from buildings and trees create a mellow atmosphere and attract crowds of lovey-dovey couples around who seem too happy to have wishes at all. Maybe you feel up to taking a peek at some of the local merchandise: colored cookies and good luck charms lovingly made in bird and mermaid shapes, or well-coveted couple bracelets with two parts that make one whole. But be careful! Losing your bracelet is said to bring bad luck!

The streets are also absolutely bustling with errant performers of all kinds, many of whom tell their own versions of the story of la Ceinturonne: said to be the sash of Delphine herself stretched across the sky in a river of stars, it separates the famous doomed couple of legend. The bluebird Ilatar and the mermaid weaver Geva are said to have been cursed by Delphine for their carelessness, and may only meet once a year at the mouth of the great river. Some performers may be looking for helping hands to play roles in the story! Let your inner thespian shine!

But not everyone can be happy, even once a year: the rumblings of civil unrest in Lasker have increased in volume ever since the train attacks. Many of the aforementioned street performers this year seem to have added a political or darker bend to our annual tale of great romance: in some versions, Ilatar and Geva backstab Delphine outright, while in others, the river itself turns against the lovers, and so on and so forth. A great deal of graffiti has been smeared over the pristine walls behind the temple, lambasting the Prime Minister for selling his country to the Gammonian and Noir old money.

If you wish to quell the unrest, you may put on counter performances, clean the graffiti, or invent your own, more creative means of quieting the people. Be advised, though: Blanc’s masses have had their eyes opened, and it will take some fancy footwork to close them again.

INFO ♟ Welcome!

Welcome to Crosscheck's July intro log! For any further questions, please see the FAQ or reach us at the Contact Us page. Have fun!

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[acknowledges]

I'll be at your door tonight | Sakura-Hime

[To say he feels a little nervous is an understatement. Naruto has never asked a girl- well, anywhere before. He doesn't go to fancy dinners or dances. He usually goes to festivals alone and meets up with friends for awhile once they're there. This is something else entirely.

Outside the building waiting for her, Naruto tugs anxiously at the bottom of his suit jacket and can't decide whether he should pull his mask down over his face or just leave it in his hair. What if she doesn't recognize him? He barely recognizes himself.

This place looks like a castle.
Oh man, Hime-chan's a princess, she'll probably fit right in.]

I left my heavy heart behind | Bolin

[There are a lot of things Naruto isn't good at and this event is most of them. He doesn't keep his hands to himself very well. He gets too curious and needs to explore literally everything. He can't stand still long enough and his manners aren't great. It's probably a good thing that he's been kept at arms length from the vips in attendance. He's restless, so when he makes his way through a particularly dense portion of the crowd to end up beside Bolin, there's a crinkled smile on his face. Relief, maybe. He feels relieved around Bolin a lot.]

You taking a break?

We get no time for getting old | Jae-ha

[There are piles of weird marshmallow things everywhere. At first he thought that maybe they were pastel-colored rocks meant to decorate the food fountains- but that's because he'd been distracted by food fountains. Naruto keeps circling them, largely oblivious to the world around him, because these structures are sort of bending his mind. As a result he probably looks like some poor country boy that's only just invented the wheel. This is not a new look for him.

Nor is it new for Naruto to be caught by surprise by a caterer trying valiantly to do his job. He backs up hurriedly and turns on his heel only to careen, full force, into the guy behind him. It turns the escape attempt into what is now a near-death experience, the two of them teetering dangerously close to a waterfall of chocolate and fortifying wall of mallowcups. Naruto does the only rational thing: he clings to the guy for dear life and yelps in a remarkable impression of a shiba-inu puppy.]

I was frightened but I held fast | Lux

[There are a lot of people he doesn't recognize. This isn't a wholly new experience in and of itself because Naruto is always throwing himself into the unknown. Some of the Heroes he's seen in passing, the day to day movements around the apartment building- but others he's seen much more than that. Even if he doesn't know their names.

She stands out not because they'd been side by side in a train car and fighting to get through, but because they'd been standing together when it was over. Two people at a loss. On the sidelines and recovering from a night of dancing in uncomfortable shoes, Naruto catches her gaze and smiles.]

[rememberher]

[ She could only dance so much before she grew hungry, and despite feeling generally sour about the overall tone-deafness of this shindig, Lux was at least somewhat confident that she could enjoy the food here. Maybe she would be in a better mood once she had a somewhat full stomach.

Dressed in her house's colors (something that was no easy feat, with the wardrobe choices given to them), the small blond made her way toward one of the banquet tables, surveying the lands as she walked.

Her eyes caught a what seemed like a familiar face, and brow furrowing slightly as she tried to place him—he smiled at her, so she must have known him—it finally clicked. She didn't know his name (how embarrassing!), but seeing him there, she changed her route slightly, a gentle smile on her face. ]

We meet again.

[ Under far better circumstances this time. ]

[acknowledges]

[It's just strange. Every part of it is strange.

Naruto doesn't have much experience with parties, elaborate or otherwise, and the conversations floating around somehow make it that much worse. Only a few days ago the news had been everywhere- what happened on the train. The sheer numbers are more than he can wrap his mind around, too impersonal and too close all at the same time. He remembers a girl sprawled out beneath a piece of open luggage. He remembers a young couple reaching for one another. How does he make that stretch out six hundred times? The number of families fractured. The people they might have saved if they'd made a different decision.

And now they're here, surrounded by people laughing and dancing- wearing clothes that the people outside can't afford.

She glints under the ballroom's light, the leaves on her dress a burnished gold. It couldn't be more different than the first time they met.] Hey. [One of his hands lift, scrubbing at the back of his neck. It looks a little sheepish, and that's because it is.] I'm glad to see you're okay.

[rememberher]

[ It wasn't uncommon for the upper class to miss the point. They lived in another world, detached from the harsh realities that, admittedly, Lux herself did not quite understand. Of noble birth herself, she could understand where this disconnect came from. Did she agree with their apathetic response? No. This wasn't the time for fanfare and fancy parties. It was a time to help those directly affected by this tragedy. To act.

The things that they were forced to see, thrust into a war that was not theirs. Some, like herself, were not used to these harsh realities, to seeing a world burning. She could still hear them, their screams, their pleads for help, for mercy, for death. Yes, she was a trained soldier, but not one meant for the front lines. She was not prepared.

What about the others? Those who were far less prepared for the horrors they found that day.

He was obviously uncomfortable, and tilting her head slightly, she offered him a bright, reassuring smile. If it meant making someone else feel better, she could push through her frustration. ]

Likewise.

[ On the outside. ]

Are you enjoying yourself?

[ It was a reflexive response, and one she regretted immediately. No, he probably wasn't. Were any of them really enjoying themselves at this point? Oh well, too late to take it back now. ]

I hadn't realized that they had parties like this here as well.

[acknowledges]

[The question seems to startle a laugh out of him. Naruto isn't one for self-deprecation, even if that's what it sounds like like, and his head immediately lifts to look out at the crowds. As a shinobi he'd spent the majority of his time in fights- in close quarters combat or even on reconnaissance missions. What he knows is the inverse of Lux herself. It's straight forward out there. On the front lines there's an intimacy to combat- a personal understanding of someone's beliefs and motivations. The machinations of the ruling elite and the maneuvers of politicians aren't part of a world he's ever had much experience in.]

I'm supposed to say yes, right? Or maybe no?

[It isn't sarcasm that comes out of his mouth. Instead it's just open confusion, the blurring point of conflicting emotions and what it means to house them simultaneously. The corner of his mouth pulls into a smile. It's a little resigned, but no less true.]

It feels weird to be here when I keep thinking about what happened. People who weren't there are talking about it and asking questions.

I don't know. It feels like we're celebrating but I don't think we should be celebrating.

And even so- if we weren't, I wouldn't have the chance to see the people I met on the train- like you. To know they're okay. I guess that doesn't make much sense either'attebayo.

[rememberher]

[ His sincere honesty got a surprised chuckle from her in turn. Lux knew nothing about him, outside of what little his signature shared as they sat on the edge of the wreckage, exhausted and needing to cling to something to remind them of their humanity. It was so frank, something that was much needed in a place like this, but seldom seen.

It was hard keeping that smile on her face as he reminded her of everything she felt was wrong with this gala. These people had no idea. Why should they care? Their world was left unaffected, and they had an excuse to let the wine and rumors flow freely. It wasn't much unlike home at times, but instead of being blissfully unaware of the real world, of the tragedies and injustices staring them in the face, she had to come to terms with it.

The world was cruel and unfair to everyone but the upper class.

She kept her voice low, grabbing a cream puff as an excuse to move closer. ]

It doesn't directly affect them.

[ If he could be frank, then so could she.

Turning her back and watching the party continue around them, her smile had all but faded. ]

The lives lost that day mean nothing to them. It's as if they never existed, in their eyes.

[ Taking a bite of her dessert, she frowned. ]

I used to like these kinds of parties, but now...

[ A pause. "Attebayo"? Tilting her head toward him, she manages another small smile. ]

That's sweet of you, checking in on me. I appreciate it. But I'll be all right, once this is all over. Although that reminds me, I don't believe I got the chance to introduce myself, or thank you.

[ Turning again to face him, she gives him a polite nod. ]

My name is Lux Crownguard. If there is ever anything that I can do for you, please tell me.

[acknowledges]

[He'd probably argue the point if she'd said it aloud. Naruto has never been part of the upper class as it were. He grew up as an orphan, an unruly weed tended by no one and with no expectations for his future. As a child he thought he'd been alone in his suffering, but the years have taught him that no one is- really. Every person he's met has a hurt all their own. The cruelties of the world don't discriminate- even if the people in question do.

I used to like these kinds of parties, she says. Naruto looks at her with new eyes. Sees how comfortable she seems in this setting, as people move around her with offerings of food and drink, as the music floats through the air.

He turns to face her without thinking about it- reflexively mirroring her posture. For one of the first times this evening, he's finally stopped toying with the cuff of his suit.]

I'm Uzumaki Naruto. [His head shakes, and the corner of his mouth flickers. A smile that doesn't quite make it.] And you don't gotta thank me. Back there- I think I needed it too.

[flirtations]

[ Even though Jae-ha often deserves bodily harm, this was not one of those times. He is, quite tamely, minding his own business, looking fancy, and listening to one of the guests rant about how yes, white is horrible choice in uniform for the Heroes (Jae-ha agrees).

When suddenly, he feels a formidable force push into him from behind. Who is this and what is happening?! ]

Whoa!! What is this?! [ Even a man of formidable balance and grace would be taken aback by Naruto at full force, and in his surprise, doesn't think "we should get out of the way", but instead, "get that thing out of the way".

So he holds onto Naruto with one arm, and with one sweeping motion, swings a kick to the fountain with his dragon leg.

It falls with a crash, thankfully injuring no one, but now there's a mess, people are staring at the scene, and the single moving unit known as Jaeruto still has plenty of momentum to fall right into a nice warm puddle of chocolate on the floor. ]

JAERUTO it has been one tag and you already gave us a ship name bless

[acknowledges]

[What he processes is this: the danger of colliding with a caterer and the tray of marshmallows they're carrying, the danger in colliding with another body, and then, chaos. He's not sure when his fingers clamped down on the guy's- shirt? Dress? Robe? But he did. And then they're skidding across the floor and wood is splintering and everyone in the general area is staring back at them.

It's so much chocolate.

The guy gets one arm on him and Naruto partly clings and partly climbs in response, but it isn't enough. Their feet are pulled out from under them. Naruto's shoulder slams into the ground and their combined momentum means that they don't just fall- they go sliding right across the ballroom floor to land underneath a second table. It's a miracle that they don't bring the cloth along with them.]

[flirtations]

[ Now they're definitely the center of attention, which Jae-ha usually doesn't mind, but not like this!

Once they finally come to a stop, he bleakly raises a chocolate covered arm, watching the chocolate drip onto the floor.

He looks back to Naruto, and he doesn't look angry, just... Done. so Done. ]

Who are you and what's the meaning of this? [ They're probably going to have to clean all of this, aren't they. ]

[acknowledges]

[Naruto is not thinking about the qualities that have made sure that no one around them can miss them. His legs are sticking out from underneath the table. His head is about two inches from smashing into the wall.]

What do you mean what's the meaning of this'attebayo? I didn't do it on purpose.

[His brain is catching up with his mouth. This is not an uncommon experience for Naruto but it does leave a sort of buffering moment before he pushes up onto his elbows in righteous indignation.]

And you're the one that kicked all the chocolate over!

[flirtations]

Why did you run into me like that? Did someone attack you?!

[ Honestly, given the tense atmosphere lately, he wouldn't be surprised.

Jae-ha huffs, crossing his arms. His chocolatey, chocolatey arms. ]

I kicked it over so we wouldn't run into it! We'd be in a world of hurt if if weren't for me. [ He did them a favor?? ]

Instead... we are in a world of chocolate. [ Things could be worse? ]

[acknowledges]

I was trying to get out of the way!

[The tense atmosphere hasn't gone over Naruto's head so much as there are facets to it that just aren't on his radar. He doesn't have the personality for subterfuge, and political maneuvers and the fine-tuning necessary for the exchanges flying through this party aren't skills he's cultivated. Instead he recognizes tension as that thing they're all trying to live with after what happened on the train- and around it, they have to find a way to keep going.

He tries to get a hand underneath him but his palm ends up sliding instead and Naruto goes sprawling right back down onto the (poor?) guy. It's better than smashing his face into the floor?]

D'you think we're gonna be in trouble?

[sediments]

[ Naruto's not exactly wrong; Bolin is taking something of a break, though he's not exactly sure what. Whether it's the need to have a good time and act like he's entirely bounced back from their work in Lasker, or the fact that some haughty socialite had approached him to ask about what exactly had happened, what the Heroes made of the Prime Minister's incompetence. It Bolin's pulse race, and he felt wholly unqualified to answer such questions, saying something generic about they were all horrified by the results, and that they'd work to make sure it never happened again.

He's feeling the weight of his lie when he finds Naruto next to him, and he perks up upon seeing the younger boy. ]

Yeah, I guess. Are you having a good time?

[acknowledges]

[It's a loaded question. Naruto looks out at the crowd- looks at the people dancing, telling jokes, and reuniting with friends. Conversation bubbles around them and the topics range from confusion and outrage over the attack to commentary on the music and food. He never thought this would be the kind of event he'd turn up to, let alone so soon after their mission- but being here has also meant he's seen familiar faces. He's been able to spot people he'd crossed paths with inside the trains, putting a name to them at last and being able to confirm, with his own two eyes, that they're alright.

There's something in Bolin's eyes that Naruto feels in his gut. The sensation that they're celebrating when so many people had died. It's one thing to acknowledge that life goes on- but this is something else. This is turning an enormous loss into dinner conversation.

He reaches for the other's hand instead, clasping his fingers into the warmth of his palm. When he meets Bolin's gaze he doesn't do so flippantly. Beneath the absurdity of his offer, there's something there that doesn't shy away.]

Let's go dance.

[sediments]

[ Dancing is probably something that Bolin could freely enjoy at this party if he knew the steps, glad for the opportunity to coordinate with his fellow Heroes in a way that doesn't involve risk loss of life. Once a little more loosened by alcohol, with food warm in his belly, he'd issue easy invitations at others to dance with him, despite his lack of familiarity with the types of dances here. Right now however, the only person that he's danced with has been Rin. (And there's no turning that down.)

He doesn't really feel apprehensive when Naruto takes his hand however, assured that dancing with the younger boy would be nothing but fun and easy. At least he wouldn't have to worry about Naruto assuming that he'd be awful at it, or judging him for not knowing the steps. ]

Okay, sounds fun!

[ They're both here now anyway, and if Naruto doesn't want to answer the question, it's okay because Bolin is fine with whatever. If the younger boy wanted to escape to the balcony, unsettled by the celebration, Bolin would go along. And if he preferred to start throwing back drinks, Bolin would do that do. Friendship is all about support.

But it seems like they're dancing, and Bolin grins as he walks with the blond to the floor, holding their joined hands up, and settling his other hand on Naruto's back. ]

You look pretty good all dressed up by the way.

[acknowledges]

[Naruto hasn't been to a formal party in recent memory, let alone the kind of shindig that would come with equally formal dancing. It hasn't even occurred to him that there are steps involved- he seems to have assumed that the couples moving in perfect form and unison are just happy coincidences. He has next to no idea what he's doing, and as they join hands and step onto the floor that becomes immediately apparent. His steps are a little too wide, and then they're a little too short. He doesn't step on Bolin's feet though it's anyone's guess how he manages to avoid them.

If he were with anyone else he'd feel self-conscious.
But he didn't pull Bolin out to dance because he was pumped to show off. He's had years of experience being the uncool guy anyway. This is about something else.

He's trying to look down between them and figure out where to step by literally watching Bolin's lead when the comment comes, and like so many before it startles a laugh out of him. Is he supposed to put his hand around his back too? No no- somebody's supposed to hold the back and somebody holds the shoulder- that's what everyone else is doing.]

Don't tell anybody, but it was supposed to have a tie too. I couldn't figure out how to make it go so I just threw it away. [A beat, and his chin lifts- an expression of confused appreciation.] Man your coat's really soft.

[sediments]

You threw it away?!

[ For his part, Bolin doesn't care if Naruto is good at following the steps or not. He appreciates that Naruto wouldn't judge him about his own lack of finesse, and he has no intention of not returning the favour. (Though it would be boring if Naruto was staring at their feet the whole time, Bolin would rather just be stepped on.) ]

Why didn't you just bring it along and get a pretty girl to tie it for you? [ He waggles his eyebrows here before laughing a little. ] You look good without the tie anyway. Way more rogue.

[ The kind of look he could see his brother adopting, though Mako had become considerably more clean cut the further he progressed in his career.

He takes the compliment with a happy noise as well, hands warm where they're resting on the younger boy, relaxed as they turn along with all the other couples, though a step slower. ]

Mine didn't even come with a tie, but I wanted something that reminded me a bit of home. [ He cocks his head to the side, casting a glance around them. ] Maybe I should've gotten something fancier though.

[ Frankly, he kind of looks more like Rin's butler than her date. ]

[acknowledges]

Because I'm not some big ladies man like you!

[It's said good-naturedly and punctuated by an exchange of weight as Naruto leans into him pointedly. If they weren't on a dance floor and if Naruto's hands weren't already occupied, it's the place where his elbow would find Bolin's ribs. Somehow this is a topic they always manage to come back to, though it's certainly become more lighthearted in the months they've known one another.

After a few minutes of studying, he feels like he has at least a general idea of the pattern their feet are supposed to move in. It's always been easier for him to learn through his body than through anything else, and sure enough with Bolin providing the framework for him to move in, Naruto's slow steps start to even out. They become less fumbling and more sure of themselves as they go on. Or maybe that's just because he isn't as preoccupied by the formalities anymore.]

This kind of look suits you a lot better. [There's a pause just long enough for Naruto to give him a solid once over, as if he's making sure his reply will be completely honest. It ends in a nod.] Yeah.

It'd be too stuffy with a bunch of fancy stuff on it. This feels like you.

And anyway what do you need a tie for, I bet you came with a date anyway, right?

(▰˘◡˘▰)

[passtave]

[ Sakura is nervous about this—she's nervous about nearly everything, but in this case she's very nervous. One, because she'd accepted Naruto's invitation without much thought to the fact that he was a boy asking her, a girl, to go with him to this party, and that fact is really starting to hit her now.

Two, because it's a party. These are exactly the kind of functions that she did everything she could to avoid going to back home, even though she'd usually have to anyway. Large groups of people who wanted to talk and dance with her were basically the stuff of her nightmares. Sure, it would help having Naruto there to put her a little more at ease, but... for a split second, she panics and considers calling him to cancel—only the fact that she would be letting him down after she'd already agreed to go with him keeps her from actually doing it.

Besides, the maids had already worked so hard to dress her up in a pretty kimono, with a matching mask and kanzashi—the Hoshidan style was the only kind that she felt remotely comfortable in.

Still, her heart is pounding so hard when she finds him outside the castle that she feels like it's going to vibrate out of her chest. She almost doesn't recognize him at first, as different as he looks in style here, but his hair has a way of giving him up. ]

H-Hi... [ It ends up coming out as a nervous whisper, so she reaches out and gently tugs on the corner of his sleeve. She's so self-conscious about everything that she can't stop fidgeting—wringing her hands, uselessly smoothing her kimono, reaching up to touch the dangling ends of her hair ornament. ]

scrEAMS

[acknowledges]

[Her voice is as soft as her touch, a gentle pull that brings his attention around. Naruto is too coarse by design, he doesn't whirl around gracefully or turn to look at her in one fluid motion. Instead, he almost trips on his own feet and his mouth is open the moment he sets eyes on her.] A- Ahh.

[She isn't the only one that gives herself away. One of Naruto's cuffs is a little more worn than the other- it sticks out further from his jacket and has been turned to sit at an odd angle around the button. He's not much for fidgeting ordinarily, but he's always been restless- thrumming energy barely contained by his body. He has no frame of reference for a party of this design or magnitude and his curiosity would be enough to see him through- if he was going alone. Talking about it with Hime-chan it'd been clear that she was just as interested as he was, even if she was a little more timid, and back then asking her had seemed only natural. It was only now that he'd been there, waiting to go into a castle with an actual princess that it occurred to Naruto that maybe... maybe he didn't think it through all the way.]

You- [They're still standing there. People are passing them on their way into the party, moving in groups and in couples. Naruto swallows.] You look really pretty, Hime-chan.

[passtave]

H-Huh?

[ She's taken aback by the compliment, suddenly overcome with a wave of embarrassment and... and... she looks away—down, to the side, up and around, basically anywhere that isn't his face, because she doesn't know if she can meet his eyes without exploding. He said she looked pretty... for someone as self-conscious as she is, it's enough to make her melt. ]

D-Do you think so? [ Her heart is still pounding, but it feels a little lighter now that it did a second ago. Like it's fluttering. It leaves her flustered and visibly struggling for words for a second before she finally blurts out: ] Y-You... you look really nice too.

[ She can't quite bring herself to say handsome, even though she thinks it probably applies. Maybe it's the unfamiliar style of the clothes he's wearing or... maybe she just never really noticed before... or maybe she's just on edge because everything is pointing towards this not being the friendly outing she's first assumed.

She definitely didn't think this through all the way. ]

[acknowledges]

Ano- you think so? [He's not used to being complimented. Naruto has gotten used to being the class clown and then the guy in last place and considered uncool over all. Girls never paid him much attention, and the one he'd carried a torch for had only ever had one person in her thoughts. He's not resentful of these things and even as a kid, he'd just accepted them as facts.

As a result, now that he's here- standing in unfamiliar clothes and accompanying a literal princess to a formal dance, Naruto realizes abruptly that he's completely out of his depth.

One of his hands lifts to run through the short crop of his hair. The blush makes even his ears turn pink.] I'm not really used to this kinda thing'attebayo. But I bet that's pretty obvious huh?

You must do this all the time. I'll try not to be too embarrassing.

[passtave]

[ Even though she's still so nervous she could probably collapse, she can't help but notice that he's blushing just as hard, if not harder, than she is. Even his ears are pink... it makes her feel a little better to know that she's not the only one flustered by all this. Besides, it makes him look kind of...

In any case, she looks down to hide her smile. When she folds her hands over her chest, her heart feels like it's finally starting to calm down... a little. Naruto really has a way of making her feel more at ease, doesn't he? ]

W-Well, um... yes, but I'm still not very good around people, especially when there are this m-many. [ Talking to one person she doesn't know is hard enough for her. Talking to many people she doesn't know? Impossible. This is why she and Takumi always tried to get out of going to these kinds of events, though he always did it just because he didn't like people period.

She perks up a little and adds, not without some humor: ] I-If anyone's going to embarrass me, it's myself. I'm sure you'll do great.

[ After all, he's friendly and fun to be around. She kind of envies that about him, actually. ]

[acknowledges]

[There are different ways to not be good around people, he thinks. She seems shy the way Hinata had been- the kind of person who struggled not just with their own feelings, but with saying anything at all. Naruto is precisely the opposite. He knows that he's always opening his mouth before he's thought things through and that sometimes it gets him into trouble and most of the time people think he's an idiot. He thinks that being shy is probably even harder, because then no one gets to know the real you- the person hiding underneath.

His expression wrinkles thoughtfully and then, as a group pass them bubbling with laughter, his face brightens. An idea!]

Hey hey I know! [The difference in their respective heights isn't so much that he needs to bend down to her, but Naruto closes the distance between them instead, his voice quieting- as if he's sharing a secret. In a way, maybe it is.] While we're in there, if you start to feel weird, you can just hold my hand. It'll be like a secret code! I'll just find a reason for us to have to go somewhere else. I can even be a distraction so you can sneak away!