Dance Snippets (I-IV), by Old Iron

Parts I & II originally posted on January 18th, 2012

Parts III & IV originally posted on January 19th, 2012


Part I


For the past few days, Uminari High had been a flurry of activity. Through the machinations of the staff, particularly those of a certain 'Tiger', a dance had been scheduled. Not just any dance, but a Sadie Hawkins dance. Many of the boys had been doing all they could to attract the attentions of a fine young lass, any lass, that they might secure a date.

Many of the girls found it amusing, even endearing in some cases. Rin Tohsaka had played her part of the school idol and had not succumbed to the urge to Gandr her admirers. The unknowing target of her affections and preferred choice of date, one Shirou Emiya, had remained out of her grasp ever since the dance was announced.

The young man had attracted his fair share of hopeful dates, though he was far too thick to notice it. From what the rumor mill was circulating, Shirou already had a date. Since none had managed to discern the identity of the woman, many were under the assumption of him still being on the market and his supposed date was merely a fabrication.

Of the theoretical woman's identity, the girls had three primary suspects: Signum Ritter, Ayako Mitsuzuri, and, loathe as they were to consider it, the short redhead who showed up on occasion to drag Shirou away.

Signum's open familiarity with Shirou had led to near open hostilities between him and the other males, and females in more than a few cases, on campus. Though he was mostly ignorant of such sentiments. The unfairness, the injustice, of such a beauty being beyond their reach led to a black aura of malice creeping about campus whenever the two were seen interacting.

Ayako had been fortunate in that sense by being the most understandable and ...palatable of Shirou's potential dates. The two were already considered the 'Married Couple' of the archery club. Though much to Ayako's dismay, she was considered the husband in the relationship. Her denial of being Shirou's date while wearing such a fierce blush on her face did not alleviate any of the hopefuls' anxiety.

The less they considered the possibility of Shirou being a lolicon, the better. They could only hope such a thing was a product of over-imagination.

Without any confirmation or legitimate denial, the rumor mill and those hoping to snare Shirou Emiya for themselves were left to find other prospects for gossip and dates.

Upon the eve of the dance, many were struck dumb when Shirou entered the gymnasium...


Part II


The Tome

All eyes was on the duo as they entered. Shirou Emiya, to many, looked exactly as they dreamed of him. His innocent smile radiated to all, and he's in a deep red suit that went along very nicely with his hair.

His partner was no less heartbreaking. Long, silvery hair flowed out behind her, and her gown that was the colour of deep midnight blue. She appeared to maybe be a second or third year high school student, but there was no-one in this school that fit her description - someone this beautiful couldn't possibly have went unknown to everyone. Her figure wasn't the kind that can be called 'well-developed', but the curves she possessed mesmerized all who gazed upon her, regardless of male or female.

Like a knight escorting his princess, the two of them went up to the dance floor. Shirou wasn't a master in dancing, but from how graceful his partner was and how even though their skill level is vastly different, they moved together like they knew each other intimately for years.

Nearing the end of the song, the silver-haired woman whispered to Shirou about something. His eyes widened, and as the song ended with a climax she pressed her lips upon his and her body pressed tightly against his own.

The sound of hearts breaking apart is practically audible within the gymnasium.

The Knight

...It was a sight to see. The members of the archery club bit down their wails of grief and loss while others openly weeped in frustration.

Walking alongside Shirou with arms linked and a slightly embarrassed smile upon her face was Signum Ritter. She was clad in tan slacks, having adamantly refused to wear a dress or skirt. A lavender sweater completed the ensemble and more than adequately hugged her enviable curves.

"I'm still a little surprised that you wanted to come, Signum. I didn't think this would interest you," admitted Shirou as they moved towards the dance floor, the gawking students parting like the sea before them.

A slow song began to play and Signum pulled her Master close. "Under normal circumstances, I would not have considered it. However...," she trailed off as she leaned into his frame.

"However?" prompted a curious Shirou, doing his best to keep a level head with his loyal and beloved Knight pressed against him. The music did not help his efforts.

A moment of hesitation preceded her answer. "...It is rare that we have such a chance together, not to mention," Signum leaned in to whisper by Shirou's ear, a flush turning her cheeks rosy, "...I wished to make it known that you, and you alone, are mine. Now and forever."

As she leaned back after delivering her statement, she found her lips captured by Shirou in a brief, but wonderful, kiss.

The Tiger

...It was to be expected, they realized after a while. This whole dance was her idea. Upon recovering their wits, a great many of the students present saluted Shirou for his noble sacrifice.

For there on his arm was Fujimura Taiga, grinning like the cat that caught the canary and dressed for the occasion.

The Mystery

...With one arm hooked around his and a beatific smile upon her face was a woman that not a single person in the gym recognized. She was shorter than him and carried herself with an aura of maturity and power. Such a stance could only come with age and experience.

She turned her mischievous green eyes to her companion. "I must thank you for accepting my request, Shirou. I know that there were likely other girls who would suit your fancy for this," she spoke with a teasing smile. "But I don't get much of a chance to get away from my job and relax nowadays."

Shirou looked rather embarrassed by the tease. "It's alright, really. You helped us out when we were in a bind. I'm really grateful for it and this is the least I could do," admitted the redhead.

The ease of conversation between them caused the hackles to rise on many of the females in attendance, particularly one of the chaperones.

He took on a concerned look. "But... Your son seemed really unhappy about this." These words sent shockwaves through the masses.

She waved him off as she guided him to the dance floor, her blue and green dress flowing as she moved far more gracefully than many thought was possible. "Don't worry about him. He's just jealous that his mother is in the company of such a nice young man. Now stop worrying about it and dance with me."

Shirou smiled and did so. "As you wish, Mrs.-"

With a saucy grin, she placed a finger to his lips, silencing him. "Please, call me Lindy."

The King

She was gorgeous, that much was obvious. Shirou almost seemed like he had simply been brought along for the ride. Long golden hair and blood red eyes were accentuated by the stunning, golden dress she wore. A dress that hugged and accentuated ever sensual curve of her body. Her smirk was filled with more confidence than any mortal could have and her voice projected it, shaking the bones of all.

"Mongrels, rejoice! For your King has arrived!"


Part III


The Archer

...it was less the fact that they had come together, but rather the scene they painted upon entering. Certainly both were red-faced with embarrassment, but Shirou certainly wasn't protesting being dragged along by the smiling Ayako. The ease of which they carried on in each other's company gave yet more credence to the reference of being a marred couple. It was as though they truly were one.

He was dressed simply, favoring his trademark jeans and long sleeved two-tone shirt. Ayako had taken a similar route, wearing a mid-length brown skirt and a white turtleneck. They did not feel the need to dress to impress one another, they simply felt far too comfortable in one another's presence to do so.

Their smiles as they danced were radiant and merriment spread throughout those gathered. It was hard not to be pulled into their laughter and fun.

"So, going to come back to the archery club anytime soon? Or do I need to ask you out again?", inquired the husband with a grin.

Normally, the wife's standard denial would have been on the tip of his tongue. This time though, he paused. "I think I've been gone long enough. What kind of a wife would I be if I left my husband all alone?" Shirou's use of their nicknames in playful banter earned him a wide-eyed look that turned into a brilliant smile.

As the last song began winding down, Ayako melted into Shirou's arms. "Welcome home, dear."

The Healer

...She was beautiful. There were few other ways to describe the smiling woman on Shirou's arm. A simple, light green dress that matched her eyes. Short hair like spun gold and a motherly figure of soft curves.

In contrast to his serene partner, Shirou looked as though death would come for him at any moment.

"Shamal... Are you sure this is such a good idea?" he asked nervously.

"What's wrong, are you embarrassed to be out on a date with me?" Shamal asked in a sugary voice, one that hid one of the most terrifying women he knew.

He shook his head rapidly in denial, "No, of course not. I'm just worried abo-" he was cut off as an explosion rocked the building and vaporized a section of the gym wall.

A powerful and feminine voice called out from beyond the wreckage as the students ran about in terror, "Mongrel! How dare you not mention this event to me! As your King, I will not stand for such insolence."

(...Sorry, I just could not wrap my head around Shirou/Shamal. Their personalities just don't mix well in my mind. So I threw Gil-ko at them.)

The Hammer

...Their fears had been realized. For there at Shirou's side, clad in a red and black dress, was the little redheaded girl. Her long locks had been pulled from their trademark style and redone into a single braid. There was equal parts mirth and concern in her crystal blue eyes.

It did not take long for the whispers and outrageous theories to begin erupting from pockets of the student body. Not knowing the truth of the girl's situation, imaginations ran wild.

Vita gripped Shirou's hand tightly as harmful accusations reached her ears. "...I knew this was a bad idea," she growled loud enough for only Shirou to hear over the din of the music and conversation, the mirth dying away in her expression. "Why didn't you let me use an illusion or something?"

They maneuvered to a collection of chairs in the corner where they could sit down. Shirou locked eyes with Vita. "Because it was you who asked me to come, not an illusion."

Anger flashed in her eyes as she gripped the soft fabric of her dress. "But-!" Vita's words were silenced as her Master placed his hands on her small shoulders. His large hands drove home the fact that his choice would condemn him within society. She cursed the childish frame she was trapped in.

He smiled at her, his golden eyes soft and warm. "Vita, this is who you are. And no matter what anyone else says, I will never feel shame or regret for falling in love with my little Red Knight." In the background, the music changed tracks to something more slow in tempo.

Vita's eyes widened in shock before she bowed her head. A joyful and sad smile blossomed, hidden from his sight. "...idiot."


Part III


The Tome (Alternate)

...All movement ceased when they laid eyes upon them. It was supposed to be a simple dance, yet there was nothing simple about the couple who had just arrived.

Shirou Emiya was clad in a sharp black suit, complete with matching tie. It was something he'd found among his late father's possessions. The faint scent of gunpowder remained ingrained into the fabric despite his and Shamal's best efforts to remove it. But it carried a nostalgia with it that his date approved of.

At his side was a young woman that crushed the hearts of all who laid eyes upon her, male and female alike. She was majestic in a modest, deep blue gown that seemed to have been cut from the night sky itself. It carried no adornments or trim, but it did not seem to need them. Resting upon her shapely bust and connected to a silver chain was a small golden cross that glinted in the dim light.

Her long silver hair flowed freely behind her, like a curtain of silk. Many would swear that her ruby eyes glowed with happiness as she was escorted to the dance floor by Shirou. The masses parted before them, wondering just who this ethereal beauty could be.

To Shirou and Reinforce, there existed no one else in the world. None dared interrupt them as they danced. Sometimes elegantly, sometimes with fumbling steps. Neither were truly skilled at the art of dancing, but their efforts together made up for any misstep or loss of balance.

Gold and ruby stared deep into one another. As time went on, they pulled closer and closer to one another, her arms wrapped around his back and his around her slender waist, until there was nothing but fabric separating them. Reinforce broke the gaze as she rested her head in the crook of Shirou's neck.

They whispered soft nothings and stories to one another, allowing themselves to sink into the soft rhythms of the music. Book and Blade, sharing in this wonderful moment together while basking in each other's warmth and love.

When the dance began to wear down and late evening approached, they still continued their embrace.

As the last song ended, they shared a tender kiss and collectively melted whatever hearts were not shattered by then. While the students and staff filed out of the gymnasium, the couple remained.

Reinforce and Shirou enjoyed the dark silence together for a while longer until they broke apart to leave.

When Reinforce noticed that Shirou was not following her, she turned back to him with a questioning gaze. Concern grew as he seemed to be nervous about something, as if steeling himself for a great task. "Shirou, is something the matter?" she asked gently.

He responded a few moments later by going down on one knee and opening a small velvet box.

The Healer (REDUX)

...She was beautiful. There were few other ways to describe the smiling woman on Shirou's arm. A simple, light green dress that matched her eyes. Short hair like spun gold and a motherly figure of soft curves.

In contrast to her serene stature, Shirou was looking rather nervous. No one could really blame him though, not when in the company of someone like her.

"What's wrong? You seem nervous," Shamal asked the young man at her side, leaning into him with a concerned gaze and causing Shirou's cheeks to redden.

He averted his gaze and tried not to delve further into the feeling of Shamal's soft and warm body pressing against him. "Its nothing... I just...," his composure was rapidly falling in the face of her kindness.

Shamal's green hued eyes turned a little downcast as she drew her own erroneous conclusions. "Are... Are you embarrassed to be on a date with an older woman like me?" she asked softly as they slowly approached the dance floor. She had not meant for it to be heard, but he did.

"No, never," Shirou stated firmly, his wits returning. "I'm just... worried about messing things up." His admission brought a smile to Shamal's face.

"Even if you do, that's part of living, isn't it?" They took their place and began moving to a waltz. "Besides...," she tightened her embrace around him, "We've got all the time in the world to learn."

The Sister

...Many were not certain what it was that made them ignore the fact that Shirou had just arrived with a girl who looked to be no more than twelve. Some would attribute it to Shirou simply being Shirou and the strangeness that permeated his life. There were other myriad reasons, but the primary one was the absolutely radiant smile on the snow haired girl's face.

The silver dress with golden trim looked wonderful on her. A fact that Shirou had told her, much to her delight. Ilya's ruby eyes danced with mirth, merriment, and joy as they took to the dance floor, ignoring the world around them.

Shirou had not the faintest idea where she had heard about the dance, but held no complaints. A chance to spend the evening with Ilya was hardly one to be missed. They danced for hours, fast, slow, and everything in between.

When the dance finally ended and the assembled students began to file out of the gymnasium, the pair found themselves sitting on the steps outside the front doors of the large building.

"Shirou, thank you. I had a wonderful time," spoke Ilya with a tired smile on her face. She leaned against his larger frame and he wrapped an arm around her.

"I'm glad." There was a comfortable silence in the gap between words. "You know, just because the dance is over, doesn't mean we have to stop," Shirou commented with a wry grin that Ilya returned.

Under the dim lights of the empty school grounds and with no music to lead them, the couple danced the night away.

From the shadow of a tree, a dark haired man and a woman with long white locks looked on with a shared smile before fading into darkness.

The Cyborg

...She was like energy made flesh. Jeans and a simple shirt were her choice of attire as she pulled a helpless, but no less happy, Shirou around, dancing madly, talking, and having the time of her life. Were it not for the blush adorning her cheeks, one would think she was just a big kid. Though many still held that perception.

it was not until a particularly pleasant and slow song began pouring out of the speakers did she stop to catch her breath. it ended up being Shirou to drag her out onto the floor, ignoring her embarrassed protests about not being able to dance to something like this.

"Seriously, I don't know how to do this," she complained halfheartedly as her date gave her an impromptu dance lesson.

"It doesn't mean you can't learn. I know how good you are on your feet, so this should be no problem," Shirou stated with a grin, teasing her enough to prompt a pout.

She began her attempt to recreate Shriou's movements in earnest, her pride refusing to accept defeat. it was not long before she was leading and Shirou was forced to step up his game. She gave a winning smile as she claimed victory. "How's that?"

Shirou chuckled and gave her a quick peck on the cheek in response, "That was perfect, Subaru."