Xehnis Creations

No no no. She shook away the thoughts with a light blush on her face, then took a large swig of her remaining coffee; much to Angel's surprise. She then sat the mug down loudly and chuckled to herself, “Ah~! At least the bitterness is helping me wake up!”

Angel blinked, blushed a little, then gave her a nod and went about finishing his breakfast. Her smile faded some as she thought about their plans for the day; they had learned that Lord Francel’s trial was upon them. She and Angel would need to act fast. They had yet to hear from Haurchefant on the rosaries they had found in the parcels just last night. He had simply told them to get some rest while he looked into it. They were both worried that they may not be able to continue waiting, despite Alphinaud's insistence that they continue to try and uphold 'diplomacy with the Isgardians'.

A loud bang from a swiftly-opened door made Angel jump and drop his remaining piece of toast. Shoto blinked and looked over to see a guard hurriedly scanning the room. He locked eyes with her and called out as he took a few steps into the hall. “My lady Takashi and my lord Lockhart, I'm glad I found you.”

Shoto stood up to acknowledge the guard as he hurried over, “What's happened?” Angel turned to silently look at the guard, then his eyes followed Shoto as she stopped in front of him, “Is there something you need us to assist with?”

The guard took a breath, then lowered his voice, as he no longer needed to yell. “Lord Haurchefant wishes to speak with you. It is a matter of great import. Something about a conclusion from last night?”

Shoto nodded firmly, “Sure thing! We'll make our way over.” The female Miqo'te looked back to Angel, “Welp, I guess breakfast is over. It seems he's got an answer for us.” The White Mage nodded, then hurriedly gathered his plate to clean up. They then hurried off to the main barracks, and into Haurchefant’s office.

* * *

The Elezen with silver-blue hair looked up at the sound of his door, and immediately beamed as he saw the two enter the room. “Ah, splendid! You both have wonderful timing."

"The guard said you found something?" Angel tilted his head curiously.

"Just so! And I would like to ask you for your assistance.”

Shoto smiled back at him, placing her hands on her hips, “Of course! You know we're more than happy to help. Especially since we know it will help out both parties.”

“Most splendid." Haurchefant chuckled, despite the serious matter. He held up a few papers, "It seems whoever is responsible has overplayed his hand while attempting to sully House Haillenarte’s reputation. Now, we will need to act quickly. I am currently preparing the formal statement to the Holy See. However...” He lowered the papers, then looked between Shoto and Angel, “I ask that you bear my words to Inquisitor Brigie.”

The Elezen stood swiftly, “Tell her that House Fortemps asks...nay, demands that Lord Francel’s trial be postponed until a full investigation has been conducted!”

Angel took a step back, as Haurchefant hit the desk to accentuate the 'demand'. His ears tipped back as he glanced over to the Miqo'te Scholar at his side. Shoto just nodded, as she looked back at Haurchefant, “We will move quickly to deliver your message!” She gave a slight bow. Angel blinked then nodded and did the same.

The Elezen laughed in response, “Must you always be so formal?”

* * *

Shoto walked out of the barracks, then looked over to Angel, “Any idea where we might find Inquisitor Brigie, Angel?”

The White Mage brought a thoughtful hand to his chin, “I think I saw her this morning... She left the dining hall... I think she was heading towards the aetheryte...?”

“Oh! We can start there then. You're the best Angel!”

The male Miqote’s ears perked and he shuffled a bit in spot as he blushed, “I-It was nothing, really. I just happened to notice her.”

Shoto giggled, “You should give yourself more credit, Angel.” With a flick of her ears, the two hurried towards the Aetheryte scanning the area.

“Ah! I see her over there,” Angel pointed up the stairs. Shoto followed where Angel was pointing, and found a tall Elezen woman with dark blue and black robes standing up by the aetheryte.

The two hurried up the stairs, then over to the Elezen. Shoto spoke first, “Inquisitor Brigie?”

The Elezen turned blinking; obviously confused, “Yes? How may I help you two?”

Angel fidgeted, “W-we're here to... deliver... a-a message,” Shoto placed a comforting hand on Angel’s arm as he trailed off a little. She knew the Miqo'te hated having to be so direct. His ears pinned back a little, and Shoto spoke up to continue.

“We're here with a report from Lord Haurchefant. New evidence has been brought to light, and House Fortemps demands that the Lord Francel’s trial be postponed until a full investigation is made.” Shoto paused to see how the Inquisitor would take her message.

Brigie simply frowned, “But that is not possible. Inquisitor Guillaime presides over Lord Francel’s trial at Witchdrop even as we speak.” She stood a little more confident, “Fear not: if Lord Francel is indeed innocent, he shall walk in Halone’s halls with the fallen heroes of Ishgard.”

Angel’s eyes went wide, he grabbed at Shoto’s sleeve before she could continue. His expression said what he was too flustered to say in a hurry, ' we need to report back to Haurchefant right now '.

A sentiment Shoto wholly agreed with, “Right. Of course. If you would excuse us.” As the two walked away, Brigie did a bit of a shrug and went back to her business.

Dread sat on the two Miqo’te’s faces as they made their way back to the barracks. What were they going to do...?

Haurchefant immediately looked up from his paperwork as they entered the barracks, confusion apparent upon his face when he saw their expressions. “Has something happened?”

Angel and Shoto stopped in front of his desk, then looked at one another. It was the female Scholar who took the step forward, “We found Inquisitor Brigie as you requested... but it seems we may be too late.”

"What do you mean?" Haurchefant quickly stood, concerned. His chair made a sudden, sharp squeak as it was pushed backward; both Miqo'te flicked their ears back at the sound.

Shoto frowned, “She said Lord Francel's trial is already taking place at Witchdrop.”

The Elezen's eyes widened with fear, “They took Lord Francel to Witchdrop !? This is madness!” The Elezen looked down towards his desk, then gestured with his hands as he tried to process what that meant for his friend. “The inquisitor does not have sufficient grounds to subject him to that manner of trial!”

Shoto just frowned, she knew the Elezen Commander would not take this lightly. Angel fidgeted behind her. Haurchefant then shook his head, “ No! I will not stand idly and allow an innocent man to die.” He pointed to the two Miqo'te before him, as he spoke pointedly. They both jumped slightly at his sudden movement. “Shoto. Angel. I would dispatch you both with one of my knights to Witchdrop.” He gestured over to one of his knights nearby, an Elezen with his reddish-brown hair pulled tightly back, who hurried over to their side and saluted to his Commander. “Hourlinet, Shoto, Angel, do whatever you must to forestall the proceedings. It is imperative that you keep Lord Francel alive!”

“Let us make haste!” Hourlinet encouraged. Shoto and Angel nodded, then hurried off with the knight towards Camp Dragonhead’s north gates.

Witchdrop wasn't that far from the encampment; it bordered the edge of the Ixal stronghold, Natalan. Hourlinet crouched down behind a rocky area as they approached. The two Miqo'te caught sight of the Inquisitor and his men, and knelt beside him. Poor Lord Francel at the edge of the canyon, facing the sheer drop that gave Witchdrop its name. One of the guards shoved him forward onto his knees as they crouched in wait. Shoto would have immediately rushed to the Elezen man’s side if it weren’t for Angel. His grip on her arm was firm, as he gave her the look of “I understand, but not yet.” She knew to trust her friend’s judgement in such matters.

“It is good to see that Lord Francel still lives.” Hourlinet glanced over to them, “We must try to reason with the Inquisitor... but, if his guards see us as a threat... Well, we must also be prepared to defend ourselves.”

Shoto knew it would more than likely be the latter option, but they had no choice if they were to save Lord Francel. They looked back to the scene before them; the young Lord had gotten back on his feet, and was now facing the Inquisitor and his men.

“Joacin Charlemend Francel de Haillenarte,” Inquisitor Guillaime clutched his book as he stared Lord Francel down. “You stand accused of heresy against the Holy See of Ishgard. Is there aught you wish to say in your defense?”

Lord Francel appeared to stand a little taller as he responded, “Hear me, brothers. These charges are false! The men and women of my line have ever opposed the Dravanians, and I am no different! Since the very birth of our nation, we have gladly shed blood in service to the Holy See! Condemn me and you will strike a blow for the enemies of Ishgard!”

A shake of his head, the dark hair of the Inquisitor swayed, “It is for Halone to judge if you speak the truth.” The man smirked a bit as he continued slightly louder, and a bit more theatrically, “ Prove your innocence in the eyes of gods and men. Leap from the cliff and entrust your fate to the Fury. The righteous shall take their place in Halone’s halls, while the wicked shall reveal their drachen forms and be put to the sword !”

Angel and Shoto knew they could wait no longer or the young Lord would more than likely jump. Having heard enough, the three gave up their hiding spot,  and hurried forward.

Hourlinet called out, “In the name of House Fortemps, I beseech you to stay your hand!”

The Inquisitor and his men turned to face the three as they came to a stop a few yalms away. His guards gripped their weapons on alert.

Hourlinet’s hands were up in an offer of peace. “Inquisitor, we have come on behalf of Lord Haurchefant. My lord has uncovered evidence which suggests that the charges against Lord Francel are without merit.” Tilting his head up, looking a little more stern, “We humbly request that these proceedings be suspended until a full reexamination of facts has been conducted.”

Looking between the three, the dark-haired Inquisitor scoffed, “Lord Haurchefant has allowed his personal relationship with the accused to cloud his judgement. He dares to interfere in legal proceedings sanctioned by the Holy See?!” His eyes narrowed. “To defy the will of an inquisitor is to commit heresy!”

The two Miqo'te frowned at the response. “Looks like we have no choice then.” Shoto responded, as she deftly unbuckled the tome at her side. Angel readied his White Mage staff just as swiftly. Inquisitor Guillaime crossed his arms without another word his guards rushed forward. An arrow shot towards them, which Angel quickly deflected with a spin of his staff. Shoto traced her finger along the rune on the page, then sent a Broiled energy blast into the chest of the archer. The surge knocked him off his feet.

Hourlinet was quick on his feet, and immediately clashed swords with the tall, dark blue-haired elezen. A Pugilist guard was coming up on Angel's flank. The mage hurriedly slid to the side to dodge. He spun in a light circle as he called Stones from the earth beneath the Pugilist's feet; the sudden upheaval sent the him flying backward. That took care of those two, as they now laid in the snow incapicated. Both Miqo'te then turned their attention to the Paladin that Hourlinet contended with. Shoto rushed towards Hourlinet, as Angel moved quickly to Francel’s side.

A piercing roar rang out through the area. Shoto fell to one knee as her hands clamped down against her ears; the sound knocked her off-balance. Her tome landed in the snow before her. Angel clutched his staff in a white knuckle grip, and winced as he pinned his ears tightly against his head; he held his ground before Francel, just barely still standing. The sudden sound had thoroughly distracted Hourlinet. The Paladin he was fighting took the opening, swung at him, and sliced his shoulder.

Shoto regained her senses as she heard the distinct sound of leathery flapping that was swiftly approaching from her left. A large wyvern had appeared over the rocky outcropping they had only recently hidden behind.

Why? Why is there suddenly a wyvern here?!

A grimace sat on the Scholar’s face as the talons closed in. There wasn't enough time to react or dodge. Her eyes squinted shut...

...but the impact and pain she had expected did not come. Her eyes opened to find Haurchefant in front of her. His shield actively blocked the talons of the beast, which held it at bay. It snarled in annoyance, then quickly circled back, away from the two.

He glanced back at Shoto with a soft smile. He offered a hand to help her up. “I can’t leave all the work to you two. Come now.”

Shoto’s ears flicked in surprise. She recovered her book, then took his hand to regain her footing as she stood once more. The Scholar nodded and turned to face the wyvern before them. Haurchefant leapt forward and struck it as Shoto cast another Broil in turn.

Over near Francel, Angel threw up a barrier to deflect arrows from the Archer. The White Mage focused to call forth more Stones from the earth to make short work of the Archer; he successfully knocked them unconscious. The male Miqo'te turned to Francel, concern written on his face, “Are you alright?” Words failed the poor Elezen lord, and he simply nodded shakily. Angel nodded in response, then moved to stand closer to Francel in a defensive stance. “Don’t worry, I’ll protect you while Hourlinet, Shoto and Lord Haurchefant take care of the others.” He spied the wound on Hourlinet's shoulder, and cast a quick Curative spell while Shoto focused on her Dravanian trouble.

The wyvern continued to bear down on Shoto and Haurchefant with one attack after another. The Scholar quickly worked to shield the knight from the Dravanian's claws. Hourlinet had continued to push back against the dark-blue haired Paladin. Angel's Cure gave him the strength back in his arm to quickly push his shield against the other Paladin. He stumbled at the move and lost his footing. Hourlinet took the opening with a forward swing. The Paladin barely managed to clumsily block, but fell flat on his arse; something fell from his grasp on impact. Hourlinet stayed his blade, hovering close to the Paladin on the ground. “It is over now, please withdraw.”

A roar once more rang out from the wyvern as it shook its head, then simply turned to retreat. Hourlinet turned to see a very confused Shoto and Haurchefant still standing there tensed, as the Dravanian simply turned, then flew away as if nothing had happened. The dark blue-haired Elezen took this chance to flee. Hourlinet turned to stop him, but he was not fast enough. “Tch...seven hells…”

Shoto and Haurchefant then made their way over to him. The tall Elezen commander put a comforting hand on the shoulder of his guard. “Do not fret. You did well.”

Angel headed over as well. The Miqo'te chanced to catch sight of a glimmer in the snow, around where the Paladin had been. The mage moved over to find a shiny rosary in the snow, which appeared to be Draconian in nature. He picked it up, then held onto it as he moved over to Shoto’s side.

Haurchefant hurriedly approached the Inquisitor as he sheathed his sword and put away his shield. “Please, if I may. It is not our intention to defy the will of the archbishop. But this trial,” he looked over to Lord Francel then back to the Inquisitor before him, “like many others, has been orchestrated by enemies of House Haillenarte." Haurchefant’s tone was serious, his hands gestured to accentuate his point. "They have used you and your fellows to sow discord, Inquisitor. To set brother against brother, that we may tear ourselves apart.”

The Inquisitor crossed his arms in a sneer, “This is a fevered imagining of a desperate man. What proof have you of this?”

Angel held out the Draconian rosary he had found. The movement drew attention to the White Mage. Haruchefant looked just as surprised as the Inquisitor did. “By the Fury...a draconian rosary! Pray, where did you find this?”

Angel pointed with his free hand to the spot the Paladin had been knocked down. “It was over there. In the spot the dark-haired knight was, before he fled.”

Haurchefant brought a hand to his chin in thought, “Then the knight who refused to yield must have been the one who summoned the wyvern.”

The Inquisitor frowned. “A heretic in the ranks of the Temple Knights. This has grave implications…” He trailed off, thoughtfully, then  let out a loud sigh, “Your claims would appear to have merit, Lord Haurchefant. I shall withdraw my charges against Lord Francel, pending further investigation.” With a motion of his hand, the remaining guards moved to return with him to the encampment.

Lord Francel moved over slowly, “Lord Haurchefant. I...I have not the words to express my gratitude." He fidgeted, confused. "But why...why would you risk your reputation to save mine?”

A hearty laugh came from Haurchefant in response; followed immediately by a big grin. “Because I know you, boy. You’re too loyal to betray Ishgard, and too devout to question your sentence. Had we been any slower, you’d have jumped of your own free will.”

Shoto blinked at the comment, Angel jumped a bit in disbelief, and the young lord's face turned a bright crimson. Joacin Charlemend Francel de Haillenarte most certainly wasn’t going to argue the truth; he had been fully prepared to jump if it would have meant clearing his house’s name.

Haurchefant spoke before anything more could be said, “Come now, let us head back to the Camp.”

The group moved to head back. Angel shivered, then hurried to keep pace with Francel and Hourlinet; both Elezen eager to return to Camp Dragonhead and calm themselves after such excitement.

Haurchefant slowed his pace to match Shoto's as they walked back. “If I may say, it was truly a pleasure to fight by your side.” Shoto looked up to him as they walked. Her head tilted to the side a bit in confusion. He smiled at her lack of reply and continued, “You are such a fearless and skillful warrior.”

Her cheeks burned with a blush as her eyes darted away from him at the flattery. Her embarrassed reaction gained a hearty laugh from him.

“Oh ho! How the lady blushes...such a lovely color! Truly splendid!”

Her blush only brightened further. Many people over time had complimented her for her performance. Even her friend, Angel, had done so. But... this seemed different, somehow...

"Lord Haurchefant, please. I'll, I'll catch a chill blushing, from all this flattery."

“Oh?” Haurchefant tilted his head a bit to get a better read on her face, and smiled warmly, “Fret not. I can make us some hot chocolate once we are back.”

Shoto looked up at the Elezen with a soft smile of her own, “That does sound lovely.”

The Miqo’te trailed off a bit as she stopped in the snow, causing the tall Elezen to pause as well. The rest of the group continued on without them, as Shoto simply stared at the snowy ground before her.

Haurchefant looked confused, then noticed a single tear slide down her cheek. Worried, he closed the gap between them and placed a hand on her shoulder as he stood beside her. His normal, playfully teasing tone was muted, "Are you alright, my dear?"

She simply nodded, and remained silent. Haurchefant frowned, then moved to stand in front of her. He used the tips of his long fingers to tip her head, which prompted her to look up to him.

“I would very much like you to talk to me if something is amiss. Large or small, please share your troubles with me...?"

The Miqo’te stared up at him, the tears falling a little more steadily at his warm smile and gentle touch. “I...You,” she squeaked, as her words seemed to fail her. She shook her head slightly, then spoke quietly, even as her tears continued. “I wasn’t able to stand alone. I messed up and you had to save me yet... yet here you are complimenting me.”

The Elezen’s eyes widened a bit in surprise. He hadn't expected that. “By the Fury, my dear, I was honored to fight at your side!” He moved his hand to her cheek, then used his thumb to wipe away some of her tears. “No battle need be fought alone. It is a knight’s honor to fight for and to protect those they love.”

“...L...Love...?" Shoto blinked, as her cheeks turned red. No, she misheard him. That has to be it.

"Yes, love." Haurchefant nodded. He didn't seem to be joking.

Shoto looked towards the Camp; Angel and the others were just passing through the gates. She knew Angel cared about her, the same way she cared about him; they were close friends. She looked back to Haurchefant, but felt a sad laugh escape her mouth before she spoke, "C-Come now, Lord Haurchefant... who would feel that strongly about me?"

Haurchefant leaned down closer to her as he stepped in front of her, “Who would not ? You are absolutely stunning, my dear. In many ways. More so than I think even you know.” He closed the distance between them. His fingers touched under her chin, then his lips caressed against hers with a soft hum. He drew it out as long as possible before they parted, then stayed close; a few ilms away from her face. “Splendid. Something I can savor, my dear Warrior of Light. I suspect we may not meet again for some time after tonight.”

Shoto remained speechless, and made no effort to pull away from him. Her face was twice as bright red as it had been, and it seemed her brain had finally caught up to his meaning after the kiss.

He stood back up tall, and extended his hand out to her, “Come now! Let’s get you out of the cold. I did promise you hot chocolate after all.” She nodded, then took his hand as they slowly made their way back to the Camp.

***

* * *

The doors into the main quarters of Camp Dragonhead swung open wide as the two adventurers stepped through first. The female Miqo’te pushed back her hood, brushing away the excess of snow off her coat. The male Miqo'te removed his fleece hat, then shook his head as his ears were freed; which also knocked some excess snow from his coat. The two guards that had gone with them stepped inside and similarly began to brush off the snow.

“Ah! Splendid! You've already arrived back!” She knew the voice before she even saw him. A joyful grin spread across his face, Lord Haurchefant looked over her with fervent approval. His light blue hair swayed as he made large strides to close the gap between him and the new arrivals. “I take it your mission was a success?” His eyes excitedly passed between each of them as he awaited an answer. 

Shoto chuckled at his enthusiasm, then responded with a soft smile on her face, “Yes. We were able to save Lord Francel and his men.”

One of the guards just shook his head still brushing the snow off himself, “Just barely in time though. There were Dravanian jaws upon him.” "But thanks to Angel and Shoto's support, we had no trouble driving them away and saving him and his men!" The other guard suddenly mimicked swinging his axe rather excitedly as he explained, which elicited a surprised squeak from Angel, just beside him. The guard’s face fell, “Ah! S-Sorry! I was just excited, and-” 

“I-It's alrrrright.” Angel purred quietly as looked down. Hauchefant brought a thoughtful hand to his chin. He could see that both Miqo’te were still visibly tense from the cold.

“I see... I will celebrate his safety for the time being. You've saved my friend, Francel's life--and in return, I have rooms readied upstairs for you and your companions to spend the night. I'm certain you'll find them comfortable. My messenger has yet to return from Ishgard with any news on your missing airship.” 

Angel’s tail twitched beneath his coat, “That is most kind. Rest sounds like a good idea... as does heat.” Angel shivered, then hurried over to the stairs, “I'm going to warm up for a bit, Shoto." His ears flicked, as he smiled at her, "If you need anything, you know where to find me.” The male Miqo’te then disappeared up to his room. 

Haurchefant looked back to the two guards in the room, “I’m sure you are both tired as well. Feel free to take the night to rest.” He smiled kindly to the guards. Their spirits were quite high as they left to head to the dining hall to relax. The female Miqo’te and male Elezen were the only two left in the room. His pale, blue eyes met hers with a soft smile as they glided over her form, “It seems we're the only ones left for this evening. Mayhap you can regale your adventure to me.”

Shoto moved to sit on a nearby bench but he gently caught her arm.

“I have somewhere else in mind that is more comfortable than these quarters.” He led her back out into the incoming blizzard's harsh winds, and she instinctively hugged herself for warmth; she visibly shivered. His arm was around her for comfort and warmth only a moment later.

“Ah, I'm sorry, the weather here takes some getting used to, but our destination is just across here.” 

They hurried forward, then stepped into a much warmer room than the entrance to the main quarters had been. There was a small fire burning in the fireplace on the other side. A plush couch was positioned in front of it, with a low table. Off to the side, there was a rather decent sized bed with a small end table. Closer to the door, on the right side, was a small kitchenette. 

Shoto stepped in closer to the fire, and rubbed at her arms to brush away any remaining feeling of cold.

The Elezen stepped around the bar of the kitchenette and grabbed two mugs, “I do hope you like hot cocoa. It is a special recipe of mine.” 

The Miqo’te nodded with a smile, before she looked back to the couch near the fireplace.

* * *

After a few minutes, Haurchefant returned to her side with two mugs of the warm liquid. “Come, let us sit!”

Shoto felt a bit less frozen, and moved away from the fire, towards the couch to sit with the Elezen. He placed the two mugs on the table before he stepped behind her to help remove her heavy coat before she could sit. The Elezen hurriedly placed it on a nearby coat rack. The Miqo’te sat on the couch, then lifted one of the mugs into her hands to warm them with it. Haurchefant made his way back over, then took a seat close beside her. 

They sat quietly staring into the dancing flames in the fireplace for a bit. Its warmth was soothing and comforting, and she wore a contented expression. The silence was then broken by the sound of Haurchefant setting his mug down.

“So tell me, However did you make it in time to save Lord Francel?” He leaned back into the couch.

Shoto smiled, "Well, with swift chocobos and the winds at our backs! I'm sure a blessing from Nymeia helped us too," Shoto continued to regale him with their mission up to Steel Vigil; how they had found the lord just in time to save him from the jaws of a Dravanian minion. How she, Angel, and the guards had split up to rescue his men without injury. She frowned a little when she got to the part where he had apologized, then told them he was trying to improve his house's reputation. 

Haurchefant leaned in, listening intently to every detail she spoke. She was quite sure he had gotten the full report well before they had arrived back. However, like always, he was on the edge of his seat as she told him her story, hanging onto her every word. Shoto also remembered that she was supposed to tell him that Francel was going to have to accept whatever judgment the inquisitors decided upon, but she didn't want to destroy the happy look on his face, and it was quite late already... she would tell him in the morning.

“How splendid indeed! Ever the hero!” His eyes moved over her form once more, drinking up every detail in the darkened lighting of the room. “You must be sore from travelling in this harsh environment. As I said on the way here, this weather takes some getting used to, especially seeing as you're from the warm region of the Black Shroud.” 

Shoto was visibly impressed that he remembered she hailed from Gridiania. She nodded as she started to move her arm. “Why yes, I am,” she continued to rotate her arm a bit to release the stiffness in her shoulder.

The Elezen’s smile widened, “Allow me?” The Miqo’te tilted her head slightly in confusion. He carefully moved closer to her, and motioned for her to turn around. The Elezen placed his hands on her shoulders, then immediately began by massaging his thumbs into the flesh at the base of her neck; his hands moving outwards over her shoulders. Gods that felt good. She felt the tension swiftly leave her shoulders.

Haurchefant moved to work further down her back. Shoto shut her eyes; she felt like she was melting at his touch. Without much thought, she leaned back against him. Her head rested against his chest as she relaxed.

Shoto’s eyes reopened a moment later. She found the Elezen looking down at her. Her cheeks flushed a bright red as she realized what she'd done. Thankfully, her blush couldn't be seen in this dim lighting. She moved to sit up, “I’m so sorry! I-I didn’t thi-” 

The Elezen’s hair swayed as he laughed. “Come now, you're quite alright. I'm humbled that you feel that comfortable in my company.” Shoto’s eyes shifted to the side in embarrassment. Haurchefant just chuckled again, “Such a splendid expression.” 

The Miqo’te looked back at him blushing brighter than before, "Wh-What's that supposed to mean?"

The Elezen laughed playfully and just smiled at her, "Ahaha, nothing bad, I assure you." Shoto pouted a bit, then sighed. She still felt chilled and a bit tired from their travels.

“You are too kind," she shook her head. "I'm sorry. I'm just still a bit cold and a little tired. I'm probably not the best company right now.” Haurchefant motioned a hand towards the side door that led to a bathroom. 

“You are most welcome to use the facilities I have here." 

Shoto’s eyes looked over in the direction of the bathroom. She then looked down at her clothes she was still wearing since the battle. She felt a bit damp from sweating and the snow that had gotten under her coat. It was quite unpleasant since attention had been brought to it. "Ah~, apologies, Lord Haurchefant. I’m certain I smell of Dravanians and stone."

He chuckled again, then shook his head. “You are fine, my dear. I just thought a warm bath may help those sore muscles of yours.” He gave her a playful grin, "I could even join you if you would like."

Shoto smiled in response. "Thank you for the offer, but I think I can handle bathing myself.” The Elezen’s face fell some as he realized by her tone that she hadn't quite picked up the intent behind his offer.

“Ah! I don't have a change of clothes with me though... They're all back in my room.” 

“I’m sure I can find something to accommodate your splendid body.” His face brightened some at the notion of her staying for longer. He hurried into the bathroom, and immediately found her a towel and a soft, grey bathrobe. It was sized for a male Elezen, but it would certainly work to cover her. He set them out for her, and turned on the hot water to let the tub fill for her.

Shoto entered the room a few moments later. It wasn’t a very large bathroom, but it was quite functional. When she thought about it, she realized that it made sense not to be extravagant at an encampment. “Thank you so much for this.” 

“It is my pleasure, my dear.” Haurchefant lingered at the door for a moment; he hoped, perhaps, she'd invite him to join her. When nothing was said after she turned the water off where she wanted it, he dismissed himself back to the couch to wait for her.

Shoto carefully lowered herself down into the warm water. A quiet groan escaped her lips as just the heat alone worked wonders on her aching muscles. She grabbed the bar of soap and the washcloth that was left for her. Shoto decided to take her time and let her body relax while she cleaned up.

* * *

It wasn’t too long before she reappeared from the bathroom in the grey robe he had set out for her. Tied neatly at the waist, it hung a little loose around the neck, but otherwise seemed to fit just fine.

Haurchefant had removed his armor, and was simply in a white shirt and brown pants that he wore underneath. The scent of fresh cocoa greeted her as she moved towards the couch once more. The Elezen's smile seemed to take over his entire face upon seeing her. He examined her from head to toe.

“Marvelous.” Shoto blushed at his comment, then sat down beside him once again. He scooted closer to her, and placed an arm along the back of the couch. His other hand reached over to twirl a finger through a damp lock of hair. “I hope you found everything you needed.” 

“Yes, thank you. It was nice to relax in a warm bath after today.” Shoto shivered a bit as she spoke; she was just in the bathrobe now. 

Haurchefant noted her shiver, then brought the arm resting on the couch down around her, and pulled her closer. It was warm and comfortable beside him. His scent reminded her of the woods of the Shroud, mixed with winter frost, with a hint of a soft musk. It blended with the cocoa in the air in a way that was oddly soothing to her. 

He looked down to her, his pale blue eyes glistened and his soft smile beamed at her. The Elezen seemed to be searching for something in her sapphire eyes. She tilted her head a bit in confusion. Haurchefant brought his free hand up again to gently run his fingers through her hair once more.

“You are absolutely stunning.” He leaned down a little closer to her, his face mere ilms away from hers.

Shoto could feel her heart hammering in her chest. This was the first time she had ever been this close to someone. “I-I…” She couldn't find any words as she felt herself drowning in those beautiful blue eyes of his; her lips slightly parted as she stared.

He took the invitation, and gently pressed his lips to hers. After a moment like that, Haurchefant exhaled a sigh upon her lips as he whispered, “You taste divine…”

He pulled her in closer for another kiss; his hand caressing the back of her head. She leaned into him, and returned the kiss; she swore even his kiss tasted of sweet cocoa. When he gently broke the kiss, she found herself awestruck.

His voice was quiet, and still playful, “My, that is a splendid blush...”

Shoto glanced to look away as he blush doubled in intensity. “Y-You are too kind, Lord Haurchefant.”

“Please," he chuckled, as he ran a finger over her cheek, "you may drop the title, my dear. Just rest for now. " His hand brushed some of her damp hair from her face, "You must be quite tired after such an intense mission.” 

Her eyelids did feel heavy, and she felt quite safe in his arms. The cocoa had gone untouched, but the scent alone seemed enough to soothe her. She smiled and settled further into his arms, “Thank you, Haurchefant.” 

The Elezen said nothing. He was quite happy to hold her and be the warmth that let her drift off to sleep. *** Dense Shoto is dense. Poor Haurchefant...will he get his feelings across to her? If you're curious what the characters look like, you can see their bios on our main series “Shard Weavers” Tumblr: https://shardweavers.tumblr.com/