"Someone's approaching the castle!" the excited whisper woke Takumi from his doze by the fireplace, the scent of his morning tea hitting his nose, and he immediately felt embarrassed. Robyn had told him it would take several days or longer to recover from the severe blood loss, but he didn't realize just how frustrating it would be, especially with the weakness and shortness of breath he'd kept experiencing. And now there was a potential intruder at the castle. Eyes narrowing, he picked up his bow and moved towards the castle entrance. Weak or not he could still fire an arrow or two if need be.
"It's the old man from the village!"
The excited shout piqued his curiosity, and he hurried to the doors, just in time to see the man hand Ricken a guitar, saying
"Give this to the lovely young lady who sang for our village. Consider it a thank you for defeating Múspell."
"Y-yes sir!" Ricken responded, and with a nod, the man departed, leaving Ricken gazing in awe. "Awesome!" he gushed as he admired the instrument. "Hey, anyone know where the Summoner is?"
"Beats me. Probably holed up in some place with her books." Gaius replied, leaning against the wall with a lollipop in his mouth.
Probably in her room.. Takumi thought with a smile, stepping forward. "I know where she is. I'll take it to her."
"Nice to see you looking more lively, Pineapple Longshot." Gaius grinned slyly as Ricken handed it over. "You had us pretty worried for a bit."
Takumi felt his cheeks redden, a little surprised.
"T-thanks.." he managed to mumble, heading for the stairs.
He hadn't realized how much the army had actually valued him until he'd gotten hurt. Members he wouldn't have normally conversed with would check on him from time to time. And then there was Robyn. She had hardly left his side since it had happened. When nightmares woke him, she'd welcome him into her room with tea and mochi, and they'd sit by the warm fire reading books or just talking until the moon was high in the sky and he felt safe enough to sleep. And now he was knocking on her door, grinning ear to ear as he waited.
"Who's there?" a soft voice called.
"It's me. Can I come in?"
With her consent given, Takumi stepped into the room, closing the door behind him with a soft click. The Summoner's back was turned, her beautiful long, pink hair cascading down her back, and Takumi couldn't help but be mesmerized by it for a few moments.
"Something wrong?" she asked, stacking some papers as he slowly made his way over to her.
"No. Just brought you a little present."
"What is it?" She turned, violet eyes lighting up as they fell on the light brown instrument in his hands. "No.."
"Yep. Now you can add music with your singing whenever you want."
"Takumi, you're amazing!" she cried, tackling him into a hug. "Oh, thank you!"
"Whoa!" His heart soared as the prince caught her quickly, chuckling as he barely managed to set the guitar down in time. "Don't thank me, thank the old man from that village. He dropped it off just now as a thank you."
"I'd better not let him down then." she laughed. "I'm going to write so many songs.."
There was a dreamy look in her eyes, and Takumi was opening his mouth to say something when the breath suddenly left his lungs, and a crushing tightness gripped his chest. The Summoner was still talking, but her voice sounded far away, like she was speaking underwater.
I can't breathe..!
Panic set in as he gasped desperately in attempt to draw in air, but no matter how many times his lungs heaved, the drowning sensation persisted.
"Takumi?!"
In his haze of dizziness and terror, he felt the gentle hands on his shoulders, violet eyes staring worriedly into his own, his hand gripping his throat as she asked him if he was alright, but he was too breathless to reply.
"Sit down, Takumi."
Her voice was calm and authoritative, easing some of his panic as he shakily complied. He was faintly aware of her leaning over him and the light pressure of her pressing on his wrist, then rustling noises and the cool tip of a medicine vial being pressed against his lips.
"Drink this." Robyn whispered encouragingly.
It tasted like sweet lavender, easing some of the crushing sensation, but his throat still felt constricted, a dry sob leaving his lips.
"Shh.. it's okay."
Soft fingertips dusted across his face, drying his tears.
"It's just a panic attack, Takumi. I know it's scary but we're going to get through this together, okay?"
His chest and lungs still felt as if someone was squeezing them from the inside, but he trusted Robyn as she removed the scarf from around his neck, exposing a bit of his chest and neck to the cool air in the room as the scent of lavender hit his nose again.
"Just take a deep breath in and count to four before letting it out. I'm going to apply this to your chest and neck. Breathing it in will help too."
Takumi was dimly aware of his heart pounding in his chest as something cool touched his skin. He breathed deeply, only able to hold it for two seconds before releasing, gasping.
"Try again."
Came the calm reply, and he clung to it, able to count to four this time. The relief was immediate, and some of the powerlessness faded.
"That's it.. keep going. You're doing really well Takumi."
The Summoner finished applying the soothing aromatherapy medicine and put his scarf back on, tucking it in with care as he repeated the exercise over and over until he could breathe normally again, the terrifying tightness and rapidly beating heart dissipating. She cradled him against her, his head resting on her chest as she rubbed small circles into his back. A wave of lightheadedness flooded over him, his eyes half-lidded as his mind tried to process what just happened to him. The word "panic attack" was foreign to him, but whatever it was sounded bad.
"Are you alright now, Takumi?" Robyn asked gently.
"Wh-what's wrong with me?" he rasped. "Am.. am I sick or something?"
"Not exactly."
The Summoner sat back a bit so she could nestle him more comfortably against her. Takumi curled himself gratefully into her embrace.
"You experienced an extremely traumatic injury. One that was supposed to be fatal. While your body may be recovered, minus the anemia, your mind may need longer to recover. The severe nightmares probably aren't helping."
His mind reeled from the new information, his heart sinking. Cherche had been badly hurt, but she didn't have similar symptoms. Fjorm had lost her sister, and Robyn herself had experienced many hardships. Yet only he suffered from this ailment.
"Am I.. broken?" he whispered.
"Of course not!" the Summoner exclaimed, the shock in her voice adding to the shameful tears that burned under his eyelids. "Why would you think that?"
"Because how will anyone in the army take me seriously now? They'll be ashamed to have such a weak minded archer who they can't even rely on because he can't control his own emotions!"
The words ended in a sob, his eyes flying open with a start when Robyn shifted unexpectedly so she was now face to face with the prince. She took his face into her hands, her violet eyes burning with intensity as she seemed to he staring him down.
"..Repeat after me."
"Wh-what?"
"Just do it!"
"O-okay.."
Taken aback by the fierceness of her tone, he hastily agreed.
"You can blame me, shame me, gaslight me, and frame me."
Perplexed, he hesitantly repeated back
"Y-you can blame me, shame me, gaslight me, and frame me.."
"But I am stronger than you know!"
A faint flush covered his cheeks.
"B-but I am stronger than you know.."
Her eyes carried such conviction as she went on, like she truly believed in every word that she was saying.
"I'm just like thunder from lightning, more then what's behind me. And I will never give up to ghosts!"
Takumi felt his confidence waver a bit, but he pressed on for the Summoner's sake as he forced his voice to remain steady.
"I'm just like thunder from lightning, more than what's behind me. And I will never give up to ghosts.."
As he finished speaking, Robyn pulled him into a tight embrace, all the previous tension in his body dissolving quickly as he leaned into her touch.
"I'll remind you as many times as I have to, until you can believe it too." she vowed in a fervent whisper.
"Thank you.." he murmured gratefully.
A sudden wave of exhaustion hit him, and he sank further into her arms.
"..Tired?" He nodded. "That's perfectly normal after a panic attack, plus the meds." she said, helping the prince to his feet and slipping her arm around his shoulders.
"Come, let's get you to your room so you can rest."
They headed towards his room in an amicable silence, the lavender scent making Takumi feel at ease, a stark contrast to the horrifying panic attack that had gripped him earlier. Robyn had known just what to do, the memory of her patiently walking him through it warming his heart as he lay down in his bed, Robyn closing the door softly behind him. He was already drifting off as he felt the soft blanket covering him.
"You should be alright now, but if it happens again, come and get me okay? I won't let you feel alone in this."
Takumi nodded, a faint smile gracing his lips as he fell into a deep, peaceful slumber.
Poor Takumi.. Robyn thought as she sat down on her bed.
The troubled young man already had enough to deal with without the added stress of a health issue no one else in the army seemed to have. It was only due to the strange knowledge that she somehow retained from her past life that she had even known what to do.
This war really is taking a toll on everyone.. she mused with a frustrated sigh. How long before the entire army is plagued with mental health issues?
Moving to her favorite view by the window, she rested her chin on her arms, closing her eyes to savor the cool fall breeze that washed over her, the cool, crisp scent of fall leaves hitting her nose. It intertwined with the scent of the fire, making the Summoner feel oddly nostalgic.
"That's it!" she exclaimed out loud. "I know exactly what everyone needs!"
Throwing up her hood, Robyn shot out of her room at a speed that would make one think the Emblian army must be chasing after her.
"..You want to have a fall festival..?" Startled, Alfonse set down his papers. "While I'm not against it.. where is this coming from? You're not usually one for social events."
"I thought it may benefit the army." Robyn responded calmly. "Like the beach trip. The war has taken a massive toll on the army. And we never know what the next battles may bring. It would do well to improve everyone's morale."
"And it would be great way for the heroes to bond." Sharena exclaimed , clasping her hands together as she gave her brother a pleading look.
Alfonse looked thoughtful, but Commander Anna was frowning.
"How.. much is this going to cost?" she asked uneasily.
"We can invite the villagers and sell food at stands to cover the cost." Robyn countered, and the red head's eyes immediately lit up.
"I'm in!" she beamed, and Alfonse chuckled.
"Alright alright." he relented. "We'll have a fall festival.
"Yes!" Sharena whooped.
Robyn hurried through the castle halls, her cloak breezing out behind her. The previously quiet castle was now bustling with life as the heroes excitedly helped to set up the fall festival on the castle grounds outside. Luckily, her and Takumi's hall was still quiet so the prince wouldn't be disturbed by the noise.
Takumi's in for a wonderful surprise when he wakes up! she thought excitedly.
The wheels in the tactical Summoner's mind were now spinning full force, and she already knew what she wanted to do for the festival. The guitar was in the same spot where Takumi had set it, as if waiting for her. It felt all too natural as humming, she picked it up and turned towards the parchment and quills sitting on her desk.
"Nnn.." Takumi sat up slowly in the bed, glancing outside. It's late afternoon.. he mused with a sigh.
He was tired of sleeping, and longed to be wandering the lush archery fields training. Takumi stood up carefully, catching the sight of his face in the mirror. The color was back in his cheeks, his hazel eyes shimmering back at him in the setting sunlight. While he didn't have his full energy back, he felt more like himself than he'd ever felt since being injured.
Maybe a bit of training couldn't hurt.. Takumi thought as he picked up his Fujin Yumi.
His hands no longer shook as they gripped the heavy bow, and the calming scent of lavender that lingered on his scarf made him smile, a flush creeping up his cheeks as it reminded him of the gentle way the Summoner had cared for him. He wasn't used to being cared for like this, but it wasn't unwelcome either. The Hoshidan prince's hair swayed gently against his back as he made his way down downstairs with purpose, surprised to see how busy the castle suddenly was. Was there an invasion?
No..
The heroes were far too cheerful for that. As Takumi rounded the corner, he barely stopped in time before almost crashing into the Summoner herself. She spun around, her lips parting when she caught sight of him.
"O-oh.. Takumi.. y-you're awake already?"
"Y-yes.." he frowned. "Am I supposed to still be asleep?"
The Summoner seemed uncharacteristically nervous as she suddenly grabbed his hand and pulled him back upstairs.
"H-hey now!" he protested as he was pulled along.
"I need you to come back to your room real quick!" she fired back, only adding to his bewilderment.
"Why?" he inquired suspiciously as they halted in front of his door.
"I need you to change into something nice! Right away!"
Takumi blushed profusely at her forwardness as he stammered
"R-right here?!"
"N-no, dummy! I meant in your room! Now no more questions! Just do it!"
"Wha-"
Anymore protests he could have made were silenced immediately as he was thrust into his room, the door promptly closing behind him, Robyn's footsteps retreating down the hall as she called
"Come downstairs when you're done!"
What..
The prince stood in the middle of his room in a stunned stupor for a few moments before he turned his gaze to the wardrobe.
"I guess.. I'd better do as she says?"
She'd told him to dress in fall themed attire.. whatever that meant. Takumi wasn't even sure he had anything like that, feeling slightly homesick. In Hoshido, for special occasions, Oboro had always chosen his outfits for him, and always knew just how to make him look his best. He wished his retainers were here.
What, can't manage without your retainers? his thoughts jeered, making the Hoshidan grit his teeth. I can do it too!
He rummaged furiously through the outfits, his eyes landing on a teal kimono with shimmering gold leaves on the sleeves and bottom, and hair ties to match. He grinned.
Perfect.
He knew Oboro would approve too. It was a bit difficult to put on by himself, but the prince was determined to not have to ask for help. As he finished fastening the hair ties into place, his eyes stole to the mirror, widening slightly.
Whoa.. I actually look pretty nice! he thought.
Having dealt with too much war already in his lifetime, he rarely had the chance to dress up, and his smile only grew as he descended the stairs, Robyn doing a double take when she caught sight of his attire.
"Do.. do you like it?" he asked hesitantly as a shy blush crept up his neck.
"Y-you look nice." she murmured, then offered her hand.
"So.. what exactly are we doing?" Takumi asked, unable to contain his curiosity any longer as he accepted her hand and she led the way to the castle doors.
Robyn paused for a moment, her hand resting on the knob and a small smile on her lips as she glanced back at him.
"Just a little thank you.. for you and everyone in the Order of Heroes!"
As she finished speaking, she opened the doors, and Takumi gasped in disbelief at the sight that greeted him. The entire courtyard was lined with food stands and decorations, the sky lit by the lanterns that were strung from the tops of stands and the trees. Villagers and heroes alike frolicked amongst the stands, and the soothing music from bards filled the air. It was truly an enchanting sight, so much so that he wondered if he was dreaming.
"A.. a fall festival?"
"Isn't it great?" Sharena's excited voice sounded beside them, donning a wolf costume. "It was Robyn's idea. She said it would be good for the army's morale."
Giggling, she skipped off to greet Gaius, who was lingering one of the dessert stands.
"Wait.. you did this?" Takumi exclaimed, taking it all in.
Robyn lowered her head a bit, seeming sheepish.
"I.. I really wanted to do something nice for you. As a thank you for everything you've done for this army, and for me. Plus.. after what happened in Múspell, you deserved a chance to just relax for a night and not worry about anything. And since it's fall, I thought a fall festival would be perfect!"
All of this.. for me?!
It was almost enough to make him cry as Takumi gazed at her, speechless and touched. No one in his life had ever done something like this for him. As of on cue, before the tears could fall, Robyn excitedly grabbed his hand.
"Come on, don't just stand there! Let's seize the moment! You never know if we'll get a night like this again!"
"A-alright, alright, I'm coming!" he chuckled, letting himself be pulled along. "Where to first?"
"Fan making!" the Summoner said proudly, skidding to a halt in front of a stand. Intricate fans hung from the top, the stand covered in parchment quills, and other decorative supplies. Other heroes and villagers were gathered at the tables, decorating their fans.
"I thought you'd appreciate some Hoshidan style food and activities." she explained as they grabbed some fabric, parchment, and other materials and sat down at one of the tables.
"Th-thank you.." he managed to say, taking in the breathtaking atmosphere, then turned to study the materials in front of him. "Um..so what kind of fan are you going to make?"
"Hm.."
Robyn seemed to be considering carefully, pausing on some fabric with a sakura flower design on it.
"I think I'll make one with this. In honor of your sister Sakura."
Takumi couldn't help but smile as Robyn selected her fabric and set to work. He was close with his sister, and missed her quite a lot.
She would have loved this. he thought fondly, a sudden idea coming to mind.
"I'm.. going to make one in honor of Mother." he decided, selecting her favorite colors.
The Summoner paused for a moment, her tone soft as she murmured
"I think she would have adored that."
The Hoshidan prince had never made a fan before, but he found the activity surprisingly easy and soothing. The Summoner was faring well too, and he glanced over from them to time to see her handiwork. Without ever even meeting Sakura, she somehow managed to capture his sister's gentle personality in the lovely fabric and personal touches.
I need to introduce her to Oboro one day. he mused as he put the final finishing decorations in his fan, and held it up to the lantern lights with a satisfied hum. Robyn had finished hers as well.
"Yours is beautiful." she said admiringly as she rose to her feet. "Mikoto would be proud of that."
"Yeah.."
While the thought was bittersweet, it also brought a smile to his face. They fell into step beside each other, and once more, Takumi's hand found its way into Robyn's. She stopped for a moment to look at him, and even under her hood he could see the smile that had made its way to her lips. She ran her thumb along his hand briefly, the fleeting motion sending butterflies fluttering in his stomach as they continued on their way. When they passed Cherche and Sumia, he noticed they paused in their conversation to stare at him and Robyn as they started whispering.
Is there something on my face? Takumi frowned, looking around.
Some of the villagers milled in groups or were walking hand in hand, and when he glanced down at him and Robyn's interlocked fingers, the realization hit him like the ocean's grey waves.
We look like a couple..
His heart thudded in his chest as he could feel his face slowly turning more and more crimson-
"Robyn!!!"
Caledori's excited voice sounded behind them, nearly making Takumi jump out of his skin, coughing awkwardly to cover up his embarrassment as Robyn's friend hurried up to them, Ricken in tow. Caledori donned a witch costume while Ricken was in a more exaggerated version of his normal mage attire with a white beard attached.
"Have you two checked out the haunted house yet?" she asked excitedly. "I heard Henry's running it and it's absolutely terrifying! Ricken and I were about to check it out."
"Y..yay.. haunted house. My favorite.. heh." Ricken mumbled, looking a little pale.
Takumi was about to turn down the offer, but Robyn seemed excited.
"Let's go! Are you okay with that Takumi?"
"Y-yeah that's fine." he mumbled as he forced down his growing unease.
He wasn't very fond of "haunted" things, but he wasn't about to admit that. So reluctantly, he turned towards the haunted house.
As Caledori and Ricken fell in beside her, Robyn didn't miss the knowing smirk written all over her friend's face when she saw Takumi's hand in hers, and she knew the second the festival was over and Takumi wasn't around, the romance fan was going to be all over her, interrogating her. Even with her hood concealing her features, it was getting harder to hide her rapidly blossoming feelings towards the prince. She had a feeling he might feel the same, and wanted so desperately to tell him, but every time she tried to summon the courage, anxiety fluttered in her stomach, silencing the words she so badly wished to say. They were from different worlds after all, and Robyn's mystery origins and lack of memories only complicated things further. How could a relationship possibly work between them? The thought made her chest ache. So she swiftly pushed the thought away so she focus on tonight.
Seize the moment.. her mind reminded her as they reached the "haunted house," which was a spookily decorated section of the castle.
"Good thing admission is free for heroes." Ricken remarked. "Why would anyone want to pay to be traumatized?"
"So you are scared." Caledori concluded, and the mage blushed furiously.
"N-no I'm not!" the mage blustered. "I'm not a little kid who gets scared of dumb things!"
"Uh-huh.. sure."
They pushed the webbed curtain aside, stepping into an eerily lit hallway, the candles on the walls being the only light source other than the moon peeking from the windows.
"Whoa.. they really went all out on this!" Caledori exclaimed, and Takumi nodded in agreement, looking impressed.
The walls were covered in fake spider web, a trail of bloody looking footprints leading down the hall.
"I.. guess we go this way?" Takumi murmured.
He was starting to look uneasy, more so as a steady fog rose around them the deeper they went, and Robyn had to stifle a giggle at the revelation.
Was Takumi.. scared?
The prince's eyes were darting around anxiously, but Robyn knew if she tried to comfort him now, especially in front of the others, the proud Hoshidan prince would never live that down. The fog rose higher, until the group was forced to huddle together as they pressed on, hardly able to see each other. Takumi jumped suddenly, his head snapping around.
"W-what is it?" Ricken yelped.
"N-nothing!" Takumi stammered. "It just felt like something grabbed me, that's all."
"It diiiiiiid.."
A voice hissed creepily behind them, causing the group to whip around as a cloaked figure looked eerily over them, holding a bloodied knife.
"Askr requires sacrifices to sustaaaaaaaaain.. nehehehe.."
"D-DON'T KILL ME!" Ricken shrieked, darting behind an equally petrified Caledori.
"What are you doing?!" she exclaimed, peeling him off of her and shoving him forward. "Y-you're the man here! You're supposed to be protecting me!"
"I thought you said gender stereotypes were stupid!" Ricken fired back.
"NOT IN THIS SITUATION!"
"Come on, quick!" Takumi whispered, pulling her along. "We can escape while it's distracted!"
They made it safely out of the hallway and into the next room, where a little girl dressed in tattered clothes was sitting in a chair, her hands covering her face as she cried.
That's definitely a trap.. Robyn mused as Takumi looked conflicted, then groaned.
"I'm probably going to regret this.." he muttered, stepping forward to confront her. "Wh-what's wrong little girl?"
"Famous last words.." Robyn whispered.
The girl didn't lift her face from her hands as she whispered incoherently.
"Grandma was so nice to raise me.. But I just got so hungry.."
"You.. huh?!"
Takumi took a step back just in time as she finally raised her head, face covered in blood, a crazed look in her eyes as she hissed
"I ate her!!!!"
Takumi was frozen, hazel eyes wide with horror as he stared at the bloodied child as she got up from her chair, stumbling towards them, arms outstretched. In a moment of genius, Robyn threw herself into the prince's arms, wrapping her arms around him tightly.
"T-Takumi, she's scary! Protect me!" she wailed.
Takumi blushed furiously, his mouth opening and closing a couple times. Then he softened, embracing her protectively and holding her trembling frame close.
"I-It's okay.." he mumbled, nestling her face into his chest.
Robyn smiled triumphantly to herself when she felt him relax against her, his attention off the child completely as he herded her gently out of the room.
"I think I found the exit." she heard Takumi say.
Niles smirked as he heard his prey drawing near.
Ah yes.. Prince Takumi. One of my favorites.. this'll be just delicious..
Just as they crossed under him, Niles dropped upside down from the ceiling, donning a bat costume as he hissed eerily into the prince's ear.
"Looking to get naughty.. or bloody?" he sneered.
But to his utter astonishment, Takumi walked right past him, smiling as he said
"Look, see? It's the exit. Let's get some Hoshidan style food from the stands. That'll cheer you up!"
"Wh-what the hell?! They're IGNORING ME?!" Niles fumed as the couple departed, seeming lost in their own little heart shaped bubble.
"Daaaaaamn, that's rough Pirate Man." Gaius remarked, sucker in hand. "They were so busy flirting, they didn't even notice you. You're more of a sucker than me, and that says something."
"Shut up!" Niles seethed as he retreated back into the ceiling, still hanging upside down.
"Made it!" Takumi exclaimed, pushing open the door as the cool fall air greeted them.
Robyn was more than a little distracted with Takumi's arms still around her, the atmosphere and their closeness sending her heart fluttering, and feeling a bit disappointed when he stepped back.
"You um.. you okay?" he asked, a shy blush on his cheeks.
"Y-yeah I'm fine!"
"Shall we then?"
Robyn accepted the outstretched hand with a smile, and they were on their way. They found a stand selling rice dumplings, vegetable tempura made with fresh harvest vegetables, and simmered Kabocha squash.
"I missed these.." Takumi sighed as they shared the food between them. "You really thought of everything didn't you?"
"Yep!" Robyn beamed as she sipped some of the savory broth, closing her eyes in bliss.
She couldn't help but steal glances at the prince. He was breathtaking as ever, sitting under the glowing lanterns, his eyes reflecting the lights. Takumi was beautiful inside and out, and Robyn wished there was a way to capture this moment forever. As if on cue, Anna's voice drifted from somewhere up ahead.
"Step right up to our first ever Snapshot Tome Booth! Where you can capture your favorite moments forever!"
"A photo booth?" Takumi inquired, seeming interested as they finished their food. "Do you.. want to go?"
She nodded enthusiastically, pulling the prince behind her as they hurried over to the booth.
"Slow down!" Takumi chuckled. "It's not going anywhere!"
"You two look like you're having fun." Anna said, taking in their interlocked fingers mischievously. "Right this way. And don't worry, it's completely private. Alfonse's orders! Have fuuuun!"
The tent flap closed abruptly behind them, and Robyn gasped, taking in the beautiful lanterns that were strung around the tent, pumpkins surrounding the bench that rested in the middle.
"This is amazing!" Takumi exclaimed as they made their way over to the bench to sit down.
And romantic.. Robyn added dreamily, and Takumi turned towards her hesitantly.
"..Robyn?"
"Hm?"
"Since.. Anna said it was private.. can.. can I take off your hood?"
Robyn felt her face heat up as the question registered, but she nodded nonetheless as he gently eased her hood off, her long hair cascading down her back. The azalea flowers in her hair only looked more ethereal under the lanterns, Takumi's lips parting slightly as he caressed one of the flowers.
"Beautiful.." he breathed.
Robyn held his gaze for a long moment, happiness bubbling in her chest. The tome blinked, indicating it was about to take the shot. She turned towards it, lifting her fan so it was next to her face, the sakura design sparking under the hue of the lanterns. Takumi unfolded his teal fan as well, letting it rest under his chin so it wouldn't obscure his features. He'd managed to recreate the design of his mother's headpiece out of glittering gold fabric in the middle, so it could feel like he was carrying her with him wherever he went. The tome flashed, two copies of the photo materializing on the table beside it.
"Oh, did it take it already?" Takumi asked curiously.
"Let's go look!" Robyn exclaimed, leaping to her feet, the sight in front of her making her tear up a bit with a quiet sniffle.
"..Are you crying?" There was worry in his voice as he hurried over. "If it's bad we can just take another."
Cheeks flushed, and holding the picture to her chest where her heart beat, Robyn turned to face him as she whispered breathlessly.
"It's.. perfect."
As Takumi glanced at the photo, she saw an unknown emotion enter his gaze, intermixed with softness. "Perfect" was an absolute understatement. The glow of the lanterns captured the sparkle of their fans and reflected in both their eyes. Robyn faced the snapshot tome, smiling cheerfully. But Takumi's eyes weren't on the tome, but on her, filled with such serene tenderness as he gazed at her, his hand still outstretched towards her hair.
"You're right." Takumi stooped to pick up his own copy, tucking it into his pocket with great care. "I'll never forget this moment."
And Robyn knew that neither would she. They exited the tent hand and hand, breezing past Anna, completely oblivious to her asking if it went well or not. But she didn't need to ask. The answer was already evident in their demeanor. The lively music grew louder as they reached what seemed to be the center of the festival.
"Ah.. the music's amazing!"
Takumi nodded in agreement.
"Seems like a good place to unwind and let some stress out. I've definitely had too much of that lately".
Is that so..?
A sly smile made its way to her lips, an idea coming to mind, making her halt, causing the Hoshidan to look over curiously.
"You know Takumi, sometimes when you're stressed you've just gotta-"
Robyn struck a dramatic pose in sync with the music.
"What?!" Takumi sputtered out a laugh, which only made her grin more.
"You know! You've just gotta.."
This time she spun three times before striking another overly exaggerated pose, which only made the prince snicker harder.
"What are you doing?!"
"Letting my stress out! What else?" Robyn giggled, continuing to make silly, dramatic motions until Takumi was doubled over with laughter.
"You're such a goofball! Don't you care that people are watching?"
"Oh, are they?" Robyn asked innocently. "I'll just have to do it more then. And if they don't like it then that's fine, I probably don't like them either. In fact, they're probably a boring old hag who yells at children as a hobby. So why should I care what they think?"
"Haha, oh yeah? Hm.."
m./watch?v=4bob1KzjYQA =ygURc2h1dCB1cCBhbmQgZGFuY2U=
Takumi's eyes narrowed in mischief.
"So, like this huh?"
He spun around and struck a pose of his own.
"Not bad for a beginner."
They circled each other, bantering light heartedly back and forth.
"Who said I was a beginner? Maybe I secretly dance after training! Maybe.. I can even dance better than you!"
"Oh, is that a challenge?"
"You bet it is! I'm gonna dance circles around you!"
"Bring it on!"
The other villagers and heroes all watched in a mixture of amusement and amazement at the sight of the second prince of Hoshido and the Summoner of Heroes dancing freely without a care in the world, their laughter filling the night sky as their antics continued, only stopping when the song finally ended, and a more peaceful tune began to play. The crowd that had formed erupted into chuckles and applause as Robyn did a bow, Takumi following suit, his shoulders still shaking with amusement.
"How do you feel?" she whispered to him.
"Amazing!" he panted, hazel eyes shining.
They explored more of the stands, a pair of white azalea decorated cat ears catching her eye.
"Ah.. those are so pretty." she remarked, a trace of longing in her tone. "Looks like whoever wins the archery game gets to pick a pair."
"Ha, that'll be easy!" Takumi scoffed good naturedly. "I meant to get some training in earlier anyways!"
"You're going to play?"
Takumi's eyes gleamed competitively and he nodded. The Fujin Yumi hummed to life as the prince removed it from his back and took aim, his eyes narrowed in concentration, then he fired. The teal arrow struck true hitting the target right in the center with such force that it toppled over. The passerby's that witnessed the spectacle whooped, and the elderly woman running the stand congratulated the prince, gesturing grandly to the accessories. Takumi selected the cat ears without hesitation and strode back to Robyn, looking quite pleased with himself as he handed them to her.
"Talented as always." she chuckled, then plunked them onto his head.
"W-why are you putting them on me?" he stammered his face turning scarlet as Robyn giggled and patted his head.
"Because you looked so cute in them!"
He indulged her for a moment before taking them off and mumbling bashfully.
"Actually.. I got them for you."
"M-me..?"
"W.. we could get some chestnut cakes and mochi from the dessert stand. Then go to the gardens to you can try them on.. If- if you want."
He broke off with a startled yelp as the Summoner tackled him into an embrace.
"Takumi, you're the best!" she cried.
"O-oh yeah?" he chuckled, spinning her.
The warm scent of the chestnut cake and mochi filled their noses as they bought some, then escaped to the quiet garden where Takumi had first seen her fully for the first time. They were still close enough to enjoy the sound of the festivities but far enough from any prying eyes. Robyn was happy to let her hood down, letting her hair flow freely in the wind as Takumi placed the cat ears on top of her head, nodding approvingly.
"They look good on you."
"Thank you.."
Illuminated by the moon, the ethereal fireflies, and the soft glow of Robyn's flowers, they split the mochi and the cake between them.
"Have you heard the story of Princess Kaguya?" she asked. "I read the story last night and it was really good, but also kinda sad."
"Hm.. I don't think so." Takumi said thoughtfully. "Tell me about it?"
"Well.. One day in the bamboo forest, an old bamboo cutter called Taketori no Okina comes across a mysterious, shining stalk of bamboo. Upon cutting it open, he is surprised to find an infant the size of his thumb inside. The old man and his wife, having no children of their own, decide to raise the infant as their own daughter, and name her Nayotake-no-Kaguya-hime. From that moment on, every time the man cuts a stalk of bamboo, he finds a small nugget of gold inside. The family soon grows rich, and within just three months, Kaguya-hime grows from an infant into a woman of ordinary size and extraordinary beauty. At first, the old man tries to keep news of Kaguya-hime away from outsiders, but as word of her beauty spreads, she attracts many suitors who seek her hand in marriage."
"Among the suitors are five nobles: Prince Ishitsukuri, Prince Kuramochi, Abe no Mimuraji, Ōtomo no Miyuki, and Isonokami no Marotari. They eventually persuade the old man to have Kaguya-hime choose from among them. Uninterested, Kaguya-hime devises five impossible tasks, agreeing to marry the noble who can bring her the item specified for him: the stone begging bowl of the Budda, a jeweled branch from the mythical island of Hõrai, a robe of Chinese fire rat skins, a colored jewel from a dragon's neck, and a cowry shell born from a swallow.
Realizing the impossibility of his task, the first noble presents a fake stone bowl made from a blackened pot, but is exposed when Kaguya-hime notices that the bowl does not glow with holy light. The second noble presents a branch created by the country's finest jewelers, but is revealed when a messenger of the craftsmen arrives at Kaguya-hime's house to collect payment. The third noble is deceived by a merchant from China, who sells him a robe that burns when it is tested with fire. The fourth noble sets out to find a dragon at sea, but abandons his plans after encountering a storm. The fifth noble falls from a great height while reaching into a swallow's nest.
After this, the Emperor of Japan comes to visit Kaguya-hime and, after falling in love, asks her hand in marriage. Although he is not subjected to an impossible trial, Kaguya-hime rejects his request for marriage as well, telling him that she is not from his country and therefore cannot go to the palace with him. She remains in contact with the Emperor, but continues to rebuff his proposals. Three years pass as they continue to communicate by letter.
That summer, whenever Kaguya-hime views the full moon, her eyes fill with tears. Though her adoptive parents grow very worried and question her, she refuses to tell them what is wrong. Her behaviour becomes increasingly erratic until she reveals that she is not of the Earth and that she must return to her people on the Moon. It is said that she was sent to the Earth, where she would inevitably form material attachment as a punishment for some crime without further description. The gold was a stipend from the people of the Moon, sent to pay for Kaguya-hime's upkeep."
"As the day of her return approaches, the Emperor sends his guards to protect her from the Moon's people, but when an embassy of heavenly beings descends upon the bamboo cutter's house, the guards are blinded by a strange light. Kaguya-hime announces that, though she loves her many friends on Earth, she must return with the beings to her true home on the Moon. She writes sad notes of apology to her parents and to the Emperor, then gives her parents her own robe as a memento. She then takes a little of the elixir of immortality, attaches it to her letter to the Emperor, and gives it to the guard officer. As she hands it to him, a feather robe is placed on her shoulders, and all of her sadness and compassion for the people of the Earth are apparently forgotten. The entourage ascends into the sky, taking Kaguya-hime back to Tsuki no Miyako and leaving her earthly foster parents in tears."
"The old couple become very sad and are soon put to bed sick. The officer returns to the Emperor with the items Kaguya-hime gave him as her last mortal act, and reports what happened. The Emperor reads her letter and is overcome with sadness, and asks his servants, "Which mountain is the closest place to Heaven?"; in response, one suggests the Great Mountain of Suruga Province. The Emperor then orders his men to take the letter to the summit of the mountain and burn it, in the hope that his message would reach the distant princess. They are also ordered to burn the elixir of immortality, as the Emperor does not wish to live for eternity without being able to see her.
Legend has it that the word for immortality, fushi, became the name of the mountain, Mount Fuji. It is also said that the kanji for the mountain, which translates to "mountain abounding with warriors", are derived from the Emperor's army ascending the slopes to carry out his order. It is said that the smoke from the burning still rises to this day."
Takumi had taken in the story with rapt attention, leaning thoughtfully against the tree trunk.
"I don't think I could bear living life without the one I love." he remarked. "I'd go insane."
Robyn nodded in agreement.
"I'd much rather be here with them than in the moon."
They were quiet after that, finishing the warm cake and soft mochi. Robyn's heart began to flutter nervously as the final stage of her plan neared.
"..Takumi?"
"..Yes?"
"I.. I have a gift for you."
"F-for me? What is it?"
Gathering her courage, Robyn met his wide hazel eyes steadily.
"Can you meet me at the stage near where we danced?"
He looked perplexed, but nodded nonetheless. Robyn smiled and hurried off to get ready.
"There you are!" Sharena, who was in on the plan exclaimed, handing her the guitar. "Anna and I have already gathered the other heroes!"
Now that the moment was here, Robyn couldn't shake off her nerves.
"I..I don't know if I can do this.." she confessed quietly, earning a quiet chuckle from her friend.
"Don't be ridiculous! Yes you can. Do it for him!" she said the last part in a whisper, and Robyn felt her face heat up a bit at the knowing smile her friend gave her.
Takumi..
The memories of their shared night flooded her warmth as she lifted her chin determinedly and stepped towards the stage.
"What the.."
Takumi took in the crowded stage with wide eyes not sure what to make of this. When the Summoner said she had a gift for him, he certainly wasn't expecting this. Sharena spotted him hovering and gave him a bright smile.
"Aw, what are you doing there, silly? Your spot's over here." she exclaimed, grabbing his arm and pulling him to the front of the stage.
"W-wha..?" he stammered as he was pulled along, the crowd falling silent as the Summoner stepped out to greet them, her guitar in hand.
The air was thick with anticipation, and even Takumi was starting to feel excited, his heart thrumming steadily in his ears as he waited.
"I'm sorry.. I'm not used to addressing large crowds like this." Robyn admitted, her voice ringing out over the still air. "I don't even know where to begin. I.. I guess I'm just really grateful to have met all of you, and to serve as your Summoner and tactician. These past few months have been an unforgettable adventure. To be with all of you here now is truly an honor."
Takumi's chest swelled with warmth at her words, and the raw honesty in them. His mind flashed back to the day he saw her face for the first time, the way he held her as she cried. He knew firsthand the burdens she carried, so hearing such words from her filled him with enough happiness to make his heart burst as the Summoner went on.
"I wrote this song not just for myself, but for someone dear to me. A constant rock in my life, grounding me in my most vulnerable moments. This is my reminder to them and to everyone else here, not to Give Up to Ghosts."
Me! She's talking about me! Takumi realized with a jolt as she began to strum on her guitar, Takumi leaning in and listening with rapt attention as she began to sing in a breathy voice, different from her usual songs.
/t/ZPR7wUWro/
"Wish I could sleep, but there's a gaslight..
Inside my brain it's burning so bright
The memories inside of my mind
Making every rewind, feel like a hate crime
I can't explain why I'm not alright
I'm getting static on the phone line
Been sorting out the mess for some time
But there is no sign, of any sunrise
But when it does appear, I'll still be here.."
The Summoner's words felt as if they'd been plucked directly from his mind, out of everyone in the Order of Heroes, Robyn was the one who understood him. Accepted him. Inside and out, and Takumi felt his heart soar when she hit the chorus.
"So you can blame me, shame me
Gaslight me and frame me
But I am stronger than you know!
I'm just like thunder from lightning,
More than what's behind me
And I will never give up to ghosts!
No.."
I know these words!
He remembered so clearly, as if it was happening right now. The Summoner's hands resting gently on his shoulders, her violet eyes staring intently into his own as they repeated the words together. The crowd seemed to fade into the background as Takumi stared, spellbound. Robyn may have been singing to a crowd, but in this moment, it felt like she was singing just for him.
"The more I run they're getting heavy
The more I hide 'em more they're deadly
I pay the price, they're living rent free
Won't let it end me!
Done being friendly!
I'm sick of killing my emotions with this medication
I'm sick of doubting myself,
I need some validation
Its time that I unlearn all the indoctrination
This is my revelation
Its time for confrontation.."
Takumi closed his eyes for a bit, letting himself sway to the beat. While the hood obscured her features, he could picture it now: the flowers in her hair illuminating the stage, her hair moving with her body as she danced. Takumi's eyes snapped open again as he gazed at her longingly, not for himself, but because he longed for her to be freed fully from that hood. Free to dance, live, and move without restraint.
"So you can blame me, shame me,
Gaslight me and frame me
But I am stronger than you know!
I'm just thunder from lightning,
More than what's behind me.
And I will never give go to ghosts
No!"
The emotions in Robyn's voice rose, until she was practically shouting the lyrics at this point.
"Even if I tremble!
Even if I cry!
Its time to face my demons!
And look them in the eye!
Even if I panic!
Break down and fall apart,
I refuse to be a slave to all the scars!
They're only scary if they're kept inside the dark!"
Even shouting, the beauty in that voice was unspeakable. He wished he could stay in this moment forever and just listen to her emotions laid bare. Before, he'd been embarrassed or felt weak whenever she found him in a vulnerable state. But right here, right now, Takumi could see the brightness of it, giving the concept a whole new meaning. Vulnerability wasn't shameful no.. but a flawed perfection. The Summoner's voice lowered to a gentle murmur, and he could feel her eyes on him even with her face covered.
"You can blame me, shame me
Gaslight me and frame me
Do your worst.. I won't let go!"
Her voice turned fierce again, seeming to challenge the gods themselves with her lyrics.
"I'm just like thunder from lightning,
More than what's behind me!
And I will never give up to ghosts..
No,
I will never give up to ghosts!
No, whoa-oh!"
The powerful lyrics and swirling emotions that had gripped Takumi during the performance seemed to at last let him go. He drew in a shaky breath as his heart finally slowed, unable to take his eyes off her as the crowd roared around him. One thing was clear now, the Summoner wasn't just their tactician. She represented light and hope, and in this moment, Takumi realized he loved Robyn more than anything.
Note from le Authoress:
My new Headcanon is that Robyn and Takumi totally had a dance off to a medieval version of Shut Up and Dance. And there you have it, the spectacular, record breaking Halloween chapter! This is by far the longest chapter I have ever made, 25 pages. In addition, I've got a little surprise for you: the first ever Redemption merch! Unfortunately I only have one available, so whoever grabs it first gets it. It's nothing crazy, just the same hair ties Takumi wore in with his Halloween kimono. Shoutout to the band Citizen Soldier for making such a banger of a song.
fatesflower./listing/1585844508
So for the update schedule, the next chapter is going to be three weeks from now to give me a bit of a break since these chapters are loooooong. But there's going to be an extra special surprise for the wait, so you can look forward to that ;3 Until next time! Happy Halloween!
~Robyn
Shoutout to Kjkawesome for their review. Almost caught up to the quotev version's chapters so you can look forward to more chapters during the week.