[ Having enough time to deliberate how he wanted to gift her, Cloud's just about made up his mind when Ayaka returns to the dining area and takes her seat next to him. But...he can tell that something's thrown a hitch into things. Nothing bad, mind, but it's like when they first started exploring their feelings together for the first time. Even before Nara... He can't place his finger on it. But, did it have something to do with her birthday? And the very same reason he was also recluse over it? ]
You okay?
[ "Um... May I hold your hand for a moment?" ]
You can have it for longer than that.
[ There's no hesitation on his part. Her present remains in his lap, whilst his hand slips into hers, the blond scooting an inch or so on his knees closer to her so they can remain idle by one another. Giving it a squeeze, he sighs through his nose, playing patiently for her. ]
Take your time.
[ Lord knows he needed it while he was settling into his own feelings for her, and how to express them. A confident smile graces his lips. And if she had to cry? Laugh? Talk everything through? Cloud's going to wait before he goes ahead with her gift. ]
I am... [ Ayaka's answer is immediate, and she nods slowly as she works in her head how to properly respond. She does not wish to worry Cloud, after all. She should not have had to make him ask if she was okay. ] I'm nervous. . .
[ She closes her eyes once his hand is in hers. Taking a deep breath, she tries to will away her shyness and anxieties so she may be calm. ]
This day is one that I have celebrated with Ayato before, and the people in the Kamisato estate and citizens of Inazuma City. It was a day filled with etiquette and poise, as we would have many visitors bearing gifts. Today, this very moment, feels so different.
[ Ayaka thought that she was done feeling overwhelmed, but with her eyes closed and thinking of how wonderfully her day has begun, a tear falls down her face, down her cheek, and onto Cloud's hand at the same time she gives it a gentle squeeze. ]
I am able to spend today as myself with Ayato. And for the first time... with someone I consider my best friend, and the very same person to whom my heart belongs. It is as if all the gods have decided to make me the happiest today. My heart has never fluttered this much before.
[ With a light cant of his head, Cloud leans back on the balls of his feet. It's less that he's worried... Because he knows about Ayaka's prior way of life, and how proverbially caged she'd been, maybe it's just like him. He didn't really celebrate his birthday in the most conventional of means. The time he spent with her and Zack, the impromptu party thrown at the Shinra estate, it all felt so...foreign to him. Cloud wasn't the only one rediscovering themselves, it seems. ]
Ayaka...
[ The tear rolls down her cheek, pattering atop his hand. Yet his gaze never falters for an instant. If only because of that gentle squeeze of his hand that she gives back nonetheless. If this is how Ayaka sorts through her heart and what this moment means to her? Then...he won't take it for granted. He won't take the chances he's been given in this world for granted. Especially what she's given him in kind. ]
Not everyday I get to celebrate a best friend's birthday, — [ As he speaks, his other hand leaves the box in his lap for now, closing both of his over hers in a bid to beckon her eyes on him. ] —let alone someone I love.
[ He smiles for her then, nodding again in affirmation. ]
I am so very fortunate to have met you. Today would likely be like any other birthday, otherwise. [ She says that as she looks at him, doing her very best not to cry anymore than she already has. The day's barely begun— they haven't even had breakfast yet!— and she already feels at her happiest. ] Thank you for celebrating my day of birth with me.
[ No more tears, now! With a deep breath, she shakes her head and bids herself to stop feeling so nervous. It likely won't go away any time soon, but... at least Cloud knows now. She doesn't think he has to do anything to make that feeling go away, but she trusts he'll catch her if she falls, as always. ]
Ah, you... you were giving me something else, weren't you?
[ Another present? Cloud didn't have to get her anything, really, but she could never refuse him and anything that he would like to do. ]
[ Any more tears, and he was going to surrender to the urge to start hugging her again. And there'd be ample time for that under other circumstances, when she was simply sorting through her feelings of happiness. ]
[ They can go through their breakfast shortly after this! Especially since she's already set and prepared it. It'd be a tease of him to tell her to wait after holding onto it for this long. And when she prompts him, despite the fact Cloud didn't need to get her anything to begin with, he almost seems too eager to meet her proposal. And so, with a final squeeze of her hand, he takes his back so he can set it on the tabletop between them.
At first, he thought to let her open it and play with it for herself, but upon further reflection as he waited for her to send his letter back to her room... ]
It's something you can wear. [ With or without the second part that'll become very clear as he looses the ribbon from the box. With a small little jostle, the lid is removed, and Ayaka would see the retconned gold armlet, along with the very familiar green orb in the center. Of which he retrieves both for her. ] I had a smith create this for you. It's meant to band around your arm.
And this...
[ The small little sphere slots in with a faint glimmer of light, as if responding to being equipped into the jewelry piece. ]
[ More materia!! Ayaka watches and listens intently, examining the armlet from where she sits. There's a look of wonder in her eyes when the orb glimmers, the idea of these things being alive occurring to her.
She does not know how to use materia, though, but... it is a good thing her beau is a powerful magic user! He can teach her. ^_^ ]
Do you think I would be capable of wielding this materia?
[ If Ayaka's arm is exposed, he'll lift the bangle up to her in one hand, his other holding out to her to ask for her own hand in kind. So he can begin to fit it on her. Thankfully, being a blend of Nipponese technology and magic with influences from his world, it'll fit her just right once it becomes accustomed to her body's Kizuna. ]
Defensive Materia like this is easier to control. That, and you've already got a Vision for offence.
It might be magic, but you don't actually need magical powers to use them.
[ Ayaka will have to roll up her sleeve to try it on, which she does when she gets the message from Cloud holding up the armlet. Right! She should try it on! 0: fortunately, her sleeve are very loose that she doesn't have to remove her top to be able to fit her present! ]
Then... what shall I do?
[ She imagines a tutorial will come once it's been fitted on her! She shall wait patiently. ]
[ Thankfully, the armlet doesn't hang obscenely loosely on her, the blond having given a general estimate of her upper arm beforehand. Better yet when it comfortably fits, it won't even be noticeable beneath her looser sleeves! Whether she was dressed in her traditional dress, or anything that left her arms exposed, it would work. All of this was rationalized in Cloud's head while they were away in Shikoku. He...may or may not have played this out in his mind a couple times. And now he's glad it's working. ]
A shock triggered by a user's mind is required. The more powerful the spell, the more taxing it is on your stamina.
[ Cloud wasn't going to have her cast the barrier magic while they were sitting at the table. But at the very least, as it responds to Ayaka and fits to her arm, he can draw it away as he inspects it. Color him impressed...the smith was able to follow his commission to a T. But even without its defensive properties and the new Materia gifted to her, it's a lightweight, pretty accessory! ]
There. How's it feel? [ A beat. ] Want me to teach you after breakfast?
[ A shock in her mind? That doesn't sound convenient. Or easy. Ayaka trusts Cloud, though... He'll surely teach her properly later. And once she knows how? She'll have to practice and work hard so that Cloud's gift doesn't go to waste.
For any questions? She'll save it after breakfast! ]
Alright. I would like it if you taught me how to use it.
[ It's rather awkward to look at the piece of jewellery from her arm, so she removes it first, gesturing at Cloud to help her so that she can look at it properly. ]
This is another way of my prince protecting and supporting me. [ But she has a part in it, too! The trust Cloud has put on her is something she won't ever take for granted. Her heart feels like it's about to burst out of her chest just thinking about how grateful she is for the present, and to the person with her now. ] When I am able to use this properly, [ She holds up the bracelet to show him what she's talking about. ] I shall be sure to protect and support you, as well.
[ It's the more technical way of describing utilizing Materia. But when the time came? His next explanation was hopefully going to be much simpler. If anything, he felt confident in giving her not only the Barrier Materia, but...even the likes of Bahamut. Of which he hoped would never need to be used. For all intents and purposes, that Summon was best kept as an heirloom now, to be safeguarded by the Kamisatos to prevent an abuse of its power. But Cloud has confidence in her, for a couple of reasons. ]
Got a feeling it'll be easy for you.
[ The band loosens itself as it makes its way down her arm, her beau easily helping it come down and off her wrist before presenting it back to her. Ayaka's remark about him being her prince again sets his cheeks a richer color of red. Ahah... There she goes, again. Setting his own heart racing when she holds her new bracer up to show him. While he hopes there won't have to be a time where she needs to use it for more dire straits, or for his sake...he also knows how strong Ayaka is. Cloud would protect her from anything and everything that dared lay a finger on her. That nightmare in Nara only anchored that guarded feeling in his heart. She would never have to be scared of anything as long as he stayed strong for her. ]
Mm. [ His hands hold hers once more, keeping her own hold upon the armlet and Materia slotted within safe and sound as he nods with confidence, the smile matching in kind. ] I'll be counting on it, - [ He's her prince? Well, ] -my lady.
[ Squeeze! And he lets go and leans back again. ]
This looks good.
[ Breakfast! They should start eating so they can kickstart their day off right. ]
[ You can call Ayaka your princess or "my lady" all you like, Cloud. She quite likes it! And flowers begin to bloom around her just from hearing it. Add the fact that Cloud thinks the breakfast spread looks good, and she could kiss him for all of it.
But she controls herself, as she always does. She must! ]
Hehe. I hope you like it.
[ It's a very simple and traditional breakfast, but she hopes she got it just right for Cloud's tastes. Now that he's ready to eat, she sets aside the armlet for now by placing it back in its box. Next, she provides a staple for any meal with Cloud— tea! Pouring it into the cup, steam rises and dissipates into the air. A light and smooth blend this morning is best. ]
I shall be staying home today. I am hoping Ayato will, too. I should like to spend the day with him before the two of us go out this evening.
[ He can't help but laugh under his breath as the sakura blossoms reappear. It's not like he wasn't going to respond in kind, even if it was just natural at this point for the sparkle of mako particles to hover and float above him. But they mustn't! Not in front of her parents adsfkjh ]
Already know I will.
[ But he would always be truthful with her! It's such a pleasant little breakfast. And of course, of course, he has to go for the salmon, breaking it apart with his chopsticks as the slice is nice and fatty. So much so that he lets out a soft exhale in excitement. Don't comment on it. He's come to really like this fish. ...and when Ayaka makes it as he takes his first bite. The tea will shortly follow as the flavors dance on his tongue. ]
Sounds like a good idea. [ It would be a different story if Cloud lived across the tracks still, but he doesn't feel bad about taking his leave anymore. Not when he's literally two blocks down. Just the thought of it nearly brings a smile to his face, but the salmon he just finished already made good work of that. ] I'll take off after we clean up. [ A beat. ] And after you learn how to use Materia.
[ She hopes he isn't thinking that she's asking him to leave! But she is very excited for tonight, because she gets to spend time with him, in the same way that she spent time with him during his birthday. ]
May I also give you something before we clean up? Hehe.
[ Dessert! Or if he is busy this morning? He can have it for dessert. ]
[ Never. Cloud's plans revolved around Ayaka today, but that also didn't mean he planned on monopolizing her time either. Especially when her brother was in this world. He's in no rush, but at the same time, he'll part when the time is right. ]
Something for me...?
[ It's not his birthday. But he's not going to complain about it either. He's learned to better fight back that kneejerk "you really don't have to" response that he was wont for in the past. That, and coming from Ayaka... ]
[ She likes Cloud's letter very much... she hopes that the letter she'd prepared for him is just as good. Something for him to read over and over, just like how she imagines she would with the letter he's written her. ]
I made some sakura mochi. I also had someone send a box to Zack and other friends.
[ And Cloud is a special friend! So he gets more OuO ]
[ What did she think he did with her letter from his birthday? That's been safely tucked away in his nightstand's drawer. And as far as he was concerned? It wasn't going anywhere else but in his two hands whenever he wanted to read it again. When she mentions sakura mochi, his eyes light up a little with a hum of approval. ]
Don't think I'll ever get enough of that. [ A beat, picking up his tea once more as he lifts it beneath his chin so the aroma can sooth his senses as he breathes in. ] Thank you.
[ After taking a drink and setting it on the table, hands still holding the cup, his smile softens as he stares into his reflection within the tea. ]
It feels nice...celebrating someone else.
[ In Cloud's case? For what feels like the first time in a very long time. ]
[ She remembers the most recent birthday celebration Ayato had. It was so very fun... While Ayaka may have spoiled the surprise, it was still a fun evening, because she was able to spend good and quality time with the people she treats as family. ]
From planning, to buying a present, crafting a letter, to the day itself... It has all been very fun. [ She means his birthday! ] Today has only just begun, though, and I feel so happy already.
[ Ayaka can't express her gratitude and her happiness enough. With a small smile, she continues with her meal, silently eating so she may finish quickly and spend a little more time with Cloud before he has to leave. ]
I hope we will be able to celebrate more things together, Cloud.
[ Because it was also the day that he finally listened to his heart, and opened it for her to see in its entirety. When he told her that he loved her, only to double down when she sought his answer again. ]
Mm. [ It wasn't just a hope, for Cloud. He doesn't understand how he's going to do it, yet. But even if he's meant to return to the Planet and go after Sephiroth, he wasn't about to forget what's happened here. Or who he wants to come back to. And if they're so fortunate... ] We're going to.
[ Come what may, whatever holidays or festivals were the norm in this world, he'll adapt and learn with her. ]
[ This shouldn't take long. Once they've quickly finished with their breakfast, the blond accompanying her to tidy up (it's her birthday. if she wants to lead? lead on,) he reassures her that the lesson on Materia will not take long. And if his hunch is correct? He believes she'll take to it like a duck to water. Free as the white heron's become in her stay in Nippon, she may never truly escape these bird analogies. The lesson he intends to teach her is hardly destructive or disruptive, but while the weather was still pleasant, he accompanies her into the courtyard along the side of her estate. ]
Before we start, I have a question. [ Something he's never really thought to ask before, but to this and her impromptu tutelage? It's more important than ever. ] How do you use your Cryo Vision?
[ Her ability to wield the frigid elements. A blessing from the gods, but to Cloud, it was like a magic in of itself as he keeps a hold of her hand for now. ]
[ That's a very good question, Cloud... One that canon does not even have an answer for! It is why Ayaka does not know how to properly respond, taking her time to think first before answering. ]
Visions manifest differently from one person to another, so I do not really know the scientific explanation to it.
[ And it can't be explained scientifically to begin with, when it is all mystical. ]
When you receive your Vision, should be fortunate enough, then you just know. The application is embedded in your mind, as if you had the Vision all along.
[ Her answer is...straightforward, and not even disappointing. The application is embedded in your mind... Well, in that case, it still didn't change how he was going to ask her to tap into the power of her Materia. But first, she'll need to reequip her armlet. Cloud, at least, doesn't seem disheartened that she couldn't go into detail of what she thinks of upon using it.
Her swimming senpai levelled up to Materia tutorial guide. ]
No need for anything scientific. [ With a squeeze of her hand, he slips away from her hold and takes a step back. Still within reach of her, to emphasize the leisure nature of this exercise. ] Let's try your bracer on. You're gonna cast a Barrier spell.
[ They've cleaned up already, so there's learning how to use Materia, and then Ayaka will give Cloud a present! There's no way she would rush this, because she really would like to learn what Cloud has to impart to her. As such, she brings out the box again from under the table, opens it and takes out the armlet.
One look, then she places it on her arm, sleeves already rolled up. She'll take a moment to see how it looks on her, because she's not really sure if there's supposed to be an effect of having it on. Is it like a Vision that you must keep close to be able to use its gift? Ayaka doesn't really know. Not yet, anyway. ]
So long as you've got Materia equipped with your weapons or accessories, it's yours to command.
[ Well? Since he couldn't relate it to her Vision, not yet, he would go the more straightforward route. The first thing he has her do? ]
Place your hand on your bracer. You won't need to next time, but just do it for now.
[ And should she do that? He patiently waits, having deliberated whether or not she should cast it on someone else, or herself... Ultimately, he decides, ]
Close your eyes and picture yourself creating a bubble. Doesn't matter what it looks like.
[ It was all about where she wished to place that bubble. Should she do so, keeping the Materia in mind for its intended purpose, the wisdom of the Planet and the power this particular stone could impart upon her would become clearer. There would be no pain, and if he's to believe in her strength? No stress upon her mind. An aura of light will begin to rise from her feet, the Materia upon her bangle answering her. ]
[ Ayaka does as she's told, her other hand on her bracer first, then she closes her eyes. Admittedly? This is a little nervewracking! But she wants to be able to do this properly. She wants to make Cloud proud, and at the core of it all? She wants to be able to support him.
Now she imagines a bubble. Her ambition to help those around her far stronger than anything else. If she has to make a barrier, it's meant to protect someone, isn't it? The bubble is just a mental image to be able to make the barrier manifest. And it does, as soon as she's able to imagine it! It surrounds not her, but the blond before her— light, almost transparent, at first, until seconds pass and the colour solidifies for a moment. ]
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no subject
You okay?
[ "Um... May I hold your hand for a moment?" ]
You can have it for longer than that.
[ There's no hesitation on his part. Her present remains in his lap, whilst his hand slips into hers, the blond scooting an inch or so on his knees closer to her so they can remain idle by one another. Giving it a squeeze, he sighs through his nose, playing patiently for her. ]
Take your time.
[ Lord knows he needed it while he was settling into his own feelings for her, and how to express them. A confident smile graces his lips. And if she had to cry? Laugh? Talk everything through? Cloud's going to wait before he goes ahead with her gift. ]
no subject
[ She closes her eyes once his hand is in hers. Taking a deep breath, she tries to will away her shyness and anxieties so she may be calm. ]
This day is one that I have celebrated with Ayato before, and the people in the Kamisato estate and citizens of Inazuma City. It was a day filled with etiquette and poise, as we would have many visitors bearing gifts. Today, this very moment, feels so different.
[ Ayaka thought that she was done feeling overwhelmed, but with her eyes closed and thinking of how wonderfully her day has begun, a tear falls down her face, down her cheek, and onto Cloud's hand at the same time she gives it a gentle squeeze. ]
I am able to spend today as myself with Ayato. And for the first time... with someone I consider my best friend, and the very same person to whom my heart belongs. It is as if all the gods have decided to make me the happiest today. My heart has never fluttered this much before.
no subject
Ayaka...
[ The tear rolls down her cheek, pattering atop his hand. Yet his gaze never falters for an instant. If only because of that gentle squeeze of his hand that she gives back nonetheless. If this is how Ayaka sorts through her heart and what this moment means to her? Then...he won't take it for granted. He won't take the chances he's been given in this world for granted. Especially what she's given him in kind. ]
Not everyday I get to celebrate a best friend's birthday, — [ As he speaks, his other hand leaves the box in his lap for now, closing both of his over hers in a bid to beckon her eyes on him. ] —let alone someone I love.
[ He smiles for her then, nodding again in affirmation. ]
I'm glad I get to be here.
no subject
[ No more tears, now! With a deep breath, she shakes her head and bids herself to stop feeling so nervous. It likely won't go away any time soon, but... at least Cloud knows now. She doesn't think he has to do anything to make that feeling go away, but she trusts he'll catch her if she falls, as always. ]
Ah, you... you were giving me something else, weren't you?
[ Another present? Cloud didn't have to get her anything, really, but she could never refuse him and anything that he would like to do. ]
no subject
[ They can go through their breakfast shortly after this! Especially since she's already set and prepared it. It'd be a tease of him to tell her to wait after holding onto it for this long. And when she prompts him, despite the fact Cloud didn't need to get her anything to begin with, he almost seems too eager to meet her proposal. And so, with a final squeeze of her hand, he takes his back so he can set it on the tabletop between them.
At first, he thought to let her open it and play with it for herself, but upon further reflection as he waited for her to send his letter back to her room... ]
It's something you can wear. [ With or without the second part that'll become very clear as he looses the ribbon from the box. With a small little jostle, the lid is removed, and Ayaka would see the
retconnedgold armlet, along with the very familiar green orb in the center. Of which he retrieves both for her. ] I had a smith create this for you. It's meant to band around your arm.And this...
[ The small little sphere slots in with a faint glimmer of light, as if responding to being equipped into the jewelry piece. ]
...is where your Barrier Materia goes.
no subject
She does not know how to use materia, though, but... it is a good thing her beau is a powerful magic user! He can teach her. ^_^ ]
Do you think I would be capable of wielding this materia?
no subject
[ If Ayaka's arm is exposed, he'll lift the bangle up to her in one hand, his other holding out to her to ask for her own hand in kind. So he can begin to fit it on her. Thankfully, being a blend of Nipponese technology and magic with influences from his world, it'll fit her just right once it becomes accustomed to her body's Kizuna. ]
Defensive Materia like this is easier to control. That, and you've already got a Vision for offence.
It might be magic, but you don't actually need magical powers to use them.
no subject
[ Ayaka will have to roll up her sleeve to try it on, which she does when she gets the message from Cloud holding up the armlet. Right! She should try it on! 0: fortunately, her sleeve are very loose that she doesn't have to remove her top to be able to fit her present! ]
Then... what shall I do?
[ She imagines a tutorial will come once it's been fitted on her! She shall wait patiently. ]
no subject
A shock triggered by a user's mind is required. The more powerful the spell, the more taxing it is on your stamina.
[ Cloud wasn't going to have her cast the barrier magic while they were sitting at the table. But at the very least, as it responds to Ayaka and fits to her arm, he can draw it away as he inspects it. Color him impressed...the smith was able to follow his commission to a T. But even without its defensive properties and the new Materia gifted to her, it's a lightweight, pretty accessory! ]
There. How's it feel? [ A beat. ] Want me to teach you after breakfast?
no subject
For any questions? She'll save it after breakfast! ]
Alright. I would like it if you taught me how to use it.
[ It's rather awkward to look at the piece of jewellery from her arm, so she removes it first, gesturing at Cloud to help her so that she can look at it properly. ]
This is another way of my prince protecting and supporting me. [ But she has a part in it, too! The trust Cloud has put on her is something she won't ever take for granted. Her heart feels like it's about to burst out of her chest just thinking about how grateful she is for the present, and to the person with her now. ] When I am able to use this properly, [ She holds up the bracelet to show him what she's talking about. ] I shall be sure to protect and support you, as well.
no subject
Got a feeling it'll be easy for you.
[ The band loosens itself as it makes its way down her arm, her beau easily helping it come down and off her wrist before presenting it back to her. Ayaka's remark about him being her prince again sets his cheeks a richer color of red. Ahah... There she goes, again. Setting his own heart racing when she holds her new bracer up to show him. While he hopes there won't have to be a time where she needs to use it for more dire straits, or for his sake...he also knows how strong Ayaka is. Cloud would protect her from anything and everything that dared lay a finger on her. That nightmare in Nara only anchored that guarded feeling in his heart. She would never have to be scared of anything as long as he stayed strong for her. ]
Mm. [ His hands hold hers once more, keeping her own hold upon the armlet and Materia slotted within safe and sound as he nods with confidence, the smile matching in kind. ] I'll be counting on it, - [ He's her prince? Well, ] -my lady.
[ Squeeze! And he lets go and leans back again. ]
This looks good.
[ Breakfast! They should start eating so they can kickstart their day off right. ]
no subject
But she controls herself, as she always does. She must! ]
Hehe. I hope you like it.
[ It's a very simple and traditional breakfast, but she hopes she got it just right for Cloud's tastes. Now that he's ready to eat, she sets aside the armlet for now by placing it back in its box. Next, she provides a staple for any meal with Cloud— tea! Pouring it into the cup, steam rises and dissipates into the air. A light and smooth blend this morning is best. ]
I shall be staying home today. I am hoping Ayato will, too. I should like to spend the day with him before the two of us go out this evening.
no subject
Not in front of her parents adsfkjh]Already know I will.
[ But he would always be truthful with her! It's such a pleasant little breakfast. And of course, of course, he has to go for the salmon, breaking it apart with his chopsticks as the slice is nice and fatty. So much so that he lets out a soft exhale in excitement. Don't comment on it. He's come to really like this fish. ...and when Ayaka makes it as he takes his first bite. The tea will shortly follow as the flavors dance on his tongue. ]
Sounds like a good idea. [ It would be a different story if Cloud lived across the tracks still, but he doesn't feel bad about taking his leave anymore. Not when he's literally two blocks down. Just the thought of it nearly brings a smile to his face, but the salmon he just finished already made good work of that. ] I'll take off after we clean up. [ A beat. ] And after you learn how to use Materia.
[ After all, he'll come back tonight! ]
no subject
May I also give you something before we clean up? Hehe.
[ Dessert! Or if he is busy this morning? He can have it for dessert. ]
I also prepared something to give you, you see.
no subject
Something for me...?
[ It's not his birthday. But he's not going to complain about it either. He's learned to better fight back that kneejerk "you really don't have to" response that he was wont for in the past. That, and coming from Ayaka... ]
What is it?
no subject
I made some sakura mochi. I also had someone send a box to Zack and other friends.
[ And Cloud is a special friend! So he gets more OuO ]
no subject
Don't think I'll ever get enough of that. [ A beat, picking up his tea once more as he lifts it beneath his chin so the aroma can sooth his senses as he breathes in. ] Thank you.
[ After taking a drink and setting it on the table, hands still holding the cup, his smile softens as he stares into his reflection within the tea. ]
It feels nice...celebrating someone else.
[ In Cloud's case? For what feels like the first time in a very long time. ]
no subject
[ She remembers the most recent birthday celebration Ayato had. It was so very fun... While Ayaka may have spoiled the surprise, it was still a fun evening, because she was able to spend good and quality time with the people she treats as family. ]
From planning, to buying a present, crafting a letter, to the day itself... It has all been very fun. [ She means his birthday! ] Today has only just begun, though, and I feel so happy already.
[ Ayaka can't express her gratitude and her happiness enough. With a small smile, she continues with her meal, silently eating so she may finish quickly and spend a little more time with Cloud before he has to leave. ]
I hope we will be able to celebrate more things together, Cloud.
1/2
[ Because it was also the day that he finally listened to his heart, and opened it for her to see in its entirety. When he told her that he loved her, only to double down when she sought his answer again. ]
Mm. [ It wasn't just a hope, for Cloud. He doesn't understand how he's going to do it, yet. But even if he's meant to return to the Planet and go after Sephiroth, he wasn't about to forget what's happened here. Or who he wants to come back to. And if they're so fortunate... ] We're going to.
[ Come what may, whatever holidays or festivals were the norm in this world, he'll adapt and learn with her. ]
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Free as the white heron's become in her stay in Nippon, she may never truly escape these bird analogies.The lesson he intends to teach her is hardly destructive or disruptive, but while the weather was still pleasant, he accompanies her into the courtyard along the side of her estate. ]Before we start, I have a question. [ Something he's never really thought to ask before, but to this and her impromptu tutelage? It's more important than ever. ] How do you use your Cryo Vision?
[ Her ability to wield the frigid elements. A blessing from the gods, but to Cloud, it was like a magic in of itself as he keeps a hold of her hand for now. ]
What do you think about when using it?
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Visions manifest differently from one person to another, so I do not really know the scientific explanation to it.
[ And it can't be explained scientifically to begin with, when it is all mystical. ]
When you receive your Vision, should be fortunate enough, then you just know. The application is embedded in your mind, as if you had the Vision all along.
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Her swimming senpai levelled up to Materia tutorial guide. ]
No need for anything scientific. [ With a squeeze of her hand, he slips away from her hold and takes a step back. Still within reach of her, to emphasize the leisure nature of this exercise. ] Let's try your bracer on. You're gonna cast a Barrier spell.
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[ They've cleaned up already, so there's learning how to use Materia, and then Ayaka will give Cloud a present! There's no way she would rush this, because she really would like to learn what Cloud has to impart to her. As such, she brings out the box again from under the table, opens it and takes out the armlet.
One look, then she places it on her arm, sleeves already rolled up. She'll take a moment to see how it looks on her, because she's not really sure if there's supposed to be an effect of having it on. Is it like a Vision that you must keep close to be able to use its gift? Ayaka doesn't really know. Not yet, anyway. ]
Alright. What must I do?
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[ Well? Since he couldn't relate it to her Vision, not yet, he would go the more straightforward route. The first thing he has her do? ]
Place your hand on your bracer. You won't need to next time, but just do it for now.
[ And should she do that? He patiently waits, having deliberated whether or not she should cast it on someone else, or herself... Ultimately, he decides, ]
Close your eyes and picture yourself creating a bubble. Doesn't matter what it looks like.
[ It was all about where she wished to place that bubble. Should she do so, keeping the Materia in mind for its intended purpose, the wisdom of the Planet and the power this particular stone could impart upon her would become clearer. There would be no pain, and if he's to believe in her strength? No stress upon her mind. An aura of light will begin to rise from her feet, the Materia upon her bangle answering her. ]
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Now she imagines a bubble. Her ambition to help those around her far stronger than anything else. If she has to make a barrier, it's meant to protect someone, isn't it? The bubble is just a mental image to be able to make the barrier manifest. And it does, as soon as she's able to imagine it! It surrounds not her, but the blond before her— light, almost transparent, at first, until seconds pass and the colour solidifies for a moment. ]
Am I doing it?
[ She still has her eyes closed!! ]
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