Beneath the Milky Twilight

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A/N: I don't know any dance terms, and I'm not too sure of the time accuracies Oo Let's just assume this all works out… Hopefully. Please leave a review! So I know how much I'm loved… jkjkjk! But if y'all review more I'll get them chapters done faster… hint hint

Disclaimer: I don't own nothing from Suikoden 3. Just this fluffy plot and the title.

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Chapter 4 Arrival

"Nothing has really changed since the last time we were here, has it?" Chris said, as she observed the mild bustle of villagers moving about. "Oh!" She stopped as a couple of clucking chickens rushed past her, herded by a small child wielding a stick. "Lively as ever!" She chuckled.

Percival smiled. "I agree. A very good image to keep." Chris nodded at his statement, and then they continued to the center of the village.

There was the expected set up for such a festive occasion. Streamers, tables of Iksay specialty dishes, and music with people dancing about. Chris secretly smiled upon the memories; this festival might not be as large as the last one she attended a year ago, but certainly didn't look any less fun. Before she knew it, she was caught up in all the excitement, going about tasting delicious homemade apple pies and fresh baked rye breads.

"Try some of this wine, dear." A kindly villager by the wine barrels said as she poured Chris a mug full. "It's very good."

"Thank you." Chris took a sip, and then sighed, savouring the exquisite taste as the tang of the wine flooded her senses. "This really is divine!" She breathed, turning to Percival, who was beside, her holding a small plate of fried rice. "Try this wine, Percival!" And without thinking gave her mug to him, which he took a good swig out of and heartily agreed with her.

Then, as Chris laughed and was enjoying all different foods, she forgot all about earlier frustrations. Her uplifting mood made her smile, and she felt more relaxed than ever. So much that, when Percival suddenly tapped her on the shoulder and bowed, she allowed herself to be swept away to relive the horrors of Iksay dancing once more.

"Do you really have to torture me like this, Percy?" Chris asked as Percival led her out onto the dance grounds.

"I thought last time you said dancing was good for you once in awhile, milady?" Percival grinned as he linked his arm with hers, together circling to the beat of the music.

"Yes well, twice in one year is a bit much for me." Chris joked as she swung around, keeping an eye out for people's feet. "You know, Percy? Dancing is just, not my thing." She said as she accidentally bumped into him.

"Don't worry, milady. You just need some more practice." Percival chuckled, and then Chris had to smile because dancing really was fun and despite her lack of gracefulness, she was starting to get the hang of it.

The dance lasted for a couple more minutes, after they had switched partners a few times. When the dance ended and the crowd dispersed, Chris wasn't surprised to see Percival being quickly surrounded by a quick appearing mob of admirers. Laughing silently to herself, Chris smiled and then slipped off to explore before Percival could catch sight of her.

Leaving the main attraction at the village square, Chris wandered towards the windmills at the top of the hill. Upon arriving at the familiar viewpoint overlooking the farming fields, Chris gazed out into the glorious sight. It was early evening, and the sun was just beginning to set; the day was about to come to an end. She closed her eyes and felt a gentle breeze blow, ruffling through her silver hair. The fading glow of the warm sun settled over her like a blanket, giving her an unknowing sense of comfort.

"That was the most shocking thing, to leave without telling me, my dearest lady!"

Chris smiled, and without opening her eyes, replied in a placate tone. "I saw you were busy and didn't want to interrupt you."

"You should know that I'm never too busy when it comes to keeping an eye out for you, beautiful goddess."

Chris opened her eyes slowly, and turned her head back to look at Percival, who had his hand at his chin with a thoughtful expression on his face. "Oh, some off that nonsense, Percival." She said, although not at all angrily.

Percival spread his arms wide and shook his head. "Borus will definitely savage me, should he found out I had let you out of sight. An extra duty on my hands I suppose, but I really don't mind." He grinned at her, radiating charm through his dark eyes and swaying smile. Chris tried to conjure up some dignifying comeback to Percival's jesting, but then found herself too light-hearted to bother.

"It's fine Percival. There are no dangers here at this village." She said as she turned her attention back to the sunset. "Except for you and your un-daunting wit." She added with a vestige of humour as he came to stand beside her.

"Glad to be of service, milady."

There was a short silence, as they both watched the sun set over the horizon. The glow of the sun diminishing as it sunk behind the rolling hills of young and tender grain plants. Chris felt mysteriously content and satisfied, as a witness to the setting of a forlorn day. Already, things were changing, as was her spirit and heart.

"Beautiful sunset, isn't it milady?"

"Yes. I have yet to experience anything more magnificent. This is quite the scenery."

"Well, there is one other sight… that I believe can rival the sunset."

Chris turned, suspicious at Percival's secretive tone of voice. "And what could that be?" She asked, her eyes scanning Percival's face for an answer.

Percival simply grinned and winked at her. "It's going to be a surprise." Chris opened her mouth to speak, but he held up a hand to stall her, and continued. "But right now, why don't we go and affix our accommodations for the next few days, milady? I must inform my family of our arrival so that rooms can be prepared."

"Oh…" Chris felt guilt press heavy on her spirit. "I thought… you didn't get time. I apologize, Percival." She sighed. "I should of known better. If there is too much inconvenience, I'll just rent a room at the inn."

"Please, don't be so humble, Lady Chris!" Percival smiled as he caught her hand and lead her back down the hill into the main village. "It's not a problem at all. So don't fret yourself." Chris blinked a couple of times, then, feeling reassured, she finally nodded.

"Alright. Thank you, Percival."

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A/N: This was suppose to be a longer chapter, but meh, I'm lazy. Please review, I lost quite a few readers after around chapter 2, and I feel depressed about that. Anyways, from here on out it is all Percy and Chris, so for all you Percy and Chris fans out there, this is not one of them mushy fics, I am trying to actually take time to develop the relationships, and hopefully, keep everyone in character. For those of you curious about the title, don't worry, be patient, it'll come into play in later chapters. I serious live off comments people give, so, if you want me to continue, please please please review! I take one word review or flames too, just tell me what you think! Oh, and I've devised Chapter titles now. I hope you enjoyed so far! Thanks for reading!