#silkyxthief

“I... hear it.”  Through the pain, Kuja managed a glare.  “It’s... it’s as irritating as ever.”  If he could just stand, he thought he might manage to stagger his way back to the inn - he might not make it up to his room, no, but he didn’t like his chances lying bruised and battered in the streets.

The rain in Lindblum was something of a spectacle, one that Zidane was enamored with as anyone might be with their home town. The thief jogged through the streets in a heavy black cloak, breath trailing behind him in white plumes. It was just barely above freezing, the rain not quite heavy but unrelenting nonetheless. He stopped in the middle of the industrial district beside the bronze sculpture of Cid Fabool VIII, eyes scanning the world above. Lindblum Grand Castle was a sight to behold, and this spot was where Zidane preferred to admire it.

In the cold weather, the mountainous castle was billowing smoke from all over; warm wisps cast across bleak, grey skies. Zidane felt compelled to stand and watch for a few moments longer in spite of the bitter sting of cold on his face, clasping his cloak harder against his chest. No matter what happened, the city of Lindblum was always running like a well oiled machine, but it was only during the cold months of winter that one could really see it, too.

Maybe, if he could get away with it, he’d go up to the castle one day and peer at the land below, witness the signs of warmth from people’s fireplaces and the trail of steam from the air cabs. For now, he let out a content sigh and resumed his hurried march through damp stone streets, rushing up the stairs to make way into Doom Pub for a comforting meal. No sooner had he stepped inside, he could hear the sound of rain picking up outside, all the more grateful for his good timing for once.

Zidane approached the bar and greeted the owner Bobo with a subtle nod. “Give me something to warm me up.” he requested and leaned against the counter, opting to stand at the bar instead of taking a seat.

“Haven’t seen you in a while, Zidane.” Bobo greeted him in a friendly tone, “Heard you came back from the dead. Glad my food didn’t kill you after all!”

The thief smiled in amusement and shook his head as he accepted the drink given to him. “Clearly I haven’t learned my lesson.” he said as he took the drink in its entirety. He could feel the warmth of it deep in his belly, sighing as he enjoyed the subtle sweetness that accompanied the comfort of a good drink.

“Sorry I haven’t visited sooner… it’s been a while since I’ve left Alexandria. I’m here to see my brothers.” he finally admitted as he was poured a bit more.

“Those troublemakers?” Bobo asked, “They let you back into Tantalus yet?”

“Actually… I’ll get back to you on that one.” Zidane replied with a flick of his tail. "For now... set me up with the Stupid Special."