mistsplitter | 🌸 seasons inbox

The Stars Know ❄️🌸 Coldreach

[ The last time the two of them set foot in the frigid terrain to the Northwest, they were hauling back fluffy clouds they've since made into the coolest of bedding in their eternal summer estate. Delving too deep only asked for danger, yet the cold also managed to bring back memories for the acerbic swordsman. A fond memory that still sits in his heart, especially with his memories completely restored. And yet...with the revelations that have since come to pass, and the memories that became entwined between himself and one little white heron, if he were to set foot back across the fields of Frostreign again... The snow would have felt even heavier than before to trudge through. Like one wrong step, lost for too long, and one would sink right through the endless snow.

Instead, having done his homework from all his time spent adventuring and getting a "lay of the land" for so long, Cloud makes sure that Ayaka's schedule is open for the next couple of days leading up to a very special occasion. The two of them would have no-doubt celebrated and reminisced in the peace and comfort of their home of Sunwaning, as they finally moved away from the Nightwake apartments that had been their early solace to a new world. There was no chance that either one of them were going to let those precious memories they made beneath a sea of stars burn into the ether.

It's just... ]

❄ ❄ ❄

Almost there.

[ This was Cloud's responsibility. To do right by her. To give them both a chance to just get away. The teahouse and estate as a whole were fulfilling accomplishments, and living under the same roof as her brother made everything just feel...whole. Even closer than what they had in their time spent in Nippon, the blond swordsman moving cities and buying his own house to make his wish come true. But after everything that's recently happened, especially as Cloud became more and more intune with the differences in Ayaka's smiles, and which ones were brave fronts or not...

They weren't running away. They weren't shying from their responsibilities.

As Cloud leads Ayaka up the pathway of a long hill, fields shimmering with patches of pure snow amongst emerald grass, they were taking a chance to reset. A chance to come back home when the two of them were ready to step forward together. Not just to be able to support one another, but for the people that matter most in their lives. And Coldreach sounded like their best chance at sinking away in reminisce as they finally reach the top of the grassy hilltop. And before their very eyes and down the other side of the slope they've hiked, cozy mountain cottages with nature abound spritzed throughout. In the distance on the other side of the town is a tall hill, where the famous observatory resides, locals and visitors alike can reach via cable car for easy access from the town.

They made it... Taking a deeper breath in through his nose before sighing gently, he makes sure he's still got Ayaka's hand as he takes the view in. The walk downhill wouldn't be steep and they can just follow the path leading into town. But they wouldn't be staying in an Inn or one of the cottages.

He had a better idea in store for her. The two of them knew they were coming to Coldreach. But where they'd be staying? That's the one surprise he managed to keep. ]

If there's a view like this back home... I ain't found it yet.

Edited 2023-06-22 08:34 (UTC)

There is nothing like this in Inazuma, either.

[ So everything that she's seen so far since they arrived in Coldreach? Absolutely amazing! The only sad thing about going here is that they missed out on the couple hours of travel, since they went here via teleporter. This is fine too, though, because they've been traveling on foot since arriving. They get to explore on their feet!

They haven't really done much exploring right now, though. They're on their way to their lodging! Which... Ayaka is curious about, because they've passed by so many places already, but haven't stopped once. ]

Cloud, my Love, [ She says his name gently, a small smile on her face. They both know why they are here. Ayaka's let Cloud take the lead for now, and it is honestly something she appreciates. She hasn't completely been herself lately, only having started to go out again the past couple of days. It's fine when she's with others, but by herself... it's honestly been a little terrifying. And it is as she's told him before— when she is with him, her troubles do not seem like troubles at all. ] Where are we going, exactly?

Beyond here... [ It's all trees, and barely any settlements... '-' ]

Yeah?

[ She squeezes his hand, and he feels a sense of warmth wash over him. She hasn't been herself, but who was going to blame her? Fault her? Tell her to move on. Nobody. Not when they weren't pressed or experiencing trying times. He was going to make sure she took every step she needed to, at the pace she needed to, to make sure she was okay. This was his responsibility. After leaning on her to guide him through his own trials and tribulations...this was his chance in turn. His chance to protect her and lift her up. ]

Wanna know now? Or wait for the surprise?

[ A beat. Two beats. The two of them continue their walk. And he can't help but give her a little half-smile...then he fesses, ]

I got us a reservation in a private treehouse.

[ Yeah he's. Not the best at keeping surprises when it comes to her. Especially not now. He wants to give her something to look forward to. ]

A private— [ She stops there for now, a little confused at first. But then she realises... Right. They're celebrating their anniversary. That's why they're here! It wasn't just a night spent in kimonos, looking up at the stars. They tried watermelon slices with salt atop a treehouse, away from the rest of the tourists who came to see the stars shower from the sky. ]

Hehe. I truly am so lucky... [ Covering her mouth with her other hand, she can't help but laugh. And now, nothing can take away her smile. She is the luckiest girl in the world. ]

I have such an amazing beau.

That's my line.

[ His thumb strums along the side of her hand in his. They wouldn't need to travel much farther to get to their destination. And any farther locales can be taken via foot or cable car also! But right now, he's going to make sure they enjoy the stroll through the nature of this world. It really does remind him of Nara in a way...except everything's not built around a massive, ancient tree. The observatory is about the tallest thing here. ]

'Cept you're my girl.

[ An amazing girl. As they walk, he points ahead. ]

See that? [ A beat. ] It's an observatory. Forecast says it's gonna be clear tonight, if you wanna go check it out later.

Yes. Let us go there tonight.

[ When he does and says things like that...

Ayaka can't help but smile, full of gratitude and admiration for Cloud. As each day passes, her feelings for him grow, as if there's no limit to just how much she looks up to him and loves him. Even though it's been a difficult past few weeks, Cloud has always been there for her. Now, perhaps when she needs that light and happiness he brings into her life most, he's there, giving it all without even asking for anything in return. ]

Perhaps they have books or brochures about the constellations here that we can use as a guide? I suppose we can look it up online, but having it on paper would be much better.

Alright. We'll settle in for a bit then head out.

[ She brings up a good point regarding the constellations as well... If they weren't hiking down the pathway leading into the forest and onward to their lodging, he'd have stopped to contemplate with her. They're making good time! ]

Oh yeah... Never thought of that before. How different the stars are here than Nippon. ...or Gaia. [ A beat. ] Or Inazuma...

Something tells me they've gotta.

[ Seeing Ayaka's spirits lift some in this atmosphere is helping keep her beau's spirits higher in turn. It hasn't been an easy past few weeks for many denizens of this world... But they continue to hold on. They continue moving forward. ]

Be on the lookout for familiar ones too.

Like your constellation.

[ The one she made up when they were looking up at the stars on his rooftop! That was such an amazing day, too. From start to finish. Cloud surprising her with presents and a letter— it was her first time celebrating her birthday as herself in such a long time. ]

Ah- what would you like to eat later? We can look for a place that you might like.

[ And she can be the one to take care of it! Cloud's done more than enough for this trip. So even just a little bit back, she'd like to offer it. ]

[ How could he forget? It was such a spontaneous end to her birthday, whisking her away to his rooftop and counting the stars... Despite the fact that their time in Nibelheim was marred with morose, there was still moments worth cherishing there too. He finally got to show her the sky he once lived under. The stars that they could reminisce over together, and see if there was a chance in connecting the dots between her world and his. And they could leave together.

Thanks to her...he feels like he can finally leave it all behind. At least, he can see everything from the rearview mirror as they move ahead. He'll always remember...

And thanks to Kamisato Ayaka, he'll remember a lot more of it for the better. For what it was. For what he had. For what he could see better upon returning. ]

Apparently the food's a bit different up here. [ He gives a half-shrug. ] Nothing too adventurous, but... [ There they go again. Little mind readers. ] How 'bout you take the lead for that? I'll follow.

[ Of course, he won't leave her overwhelmed. He'll do his part if she winds up not letting her own curiosities get the better of her. They can learn and discover together! ]

Then it may be best to take a local's advice.

[ She'd much prefer that over deciding a place after just checking online. It'll be more touristy! ]

A menu can describe the food, but it may not be able to properly convey the experience.

[ So!! They'll just ask someone later. Maybe their lodging has recommendations, even. ]

Works for me. Most of the locals have been pretty receptive to us.

[ Cloud takes the time to take the sights in as they make it towards the bottom of the slope and towards the pathed forestway. Surrounded by trees, but nothing's getting in their way at least! ]

Then again...if we're here to help save this world, it makes sense.

[ Their hike won't last for much longer! The two of them happen upon one of said locals who take notice of the two travelers dressed far more differently. Cloud takes this time to ask for directions and make sure that they're on the right path towards their special lodge. Sure enough, they are! Just take the left at the fork up ahead and it'll lead to a quaint little settlement. By the time the two of them finally arrive hand-in-hand, their first order of business is to check in at the little cabin for all guests. There was no need to drop anything off! Just claim their reservation and be on their way whilst their quarters are prepared and set.

"Welcome to Coldreach! Please enjoy your stay." ]

Thanks.

[ He nods with a little bow of his head, a force of habit in his time spent in Nippon as he takes his leave with Ayaka in tow, now that they had their key to the treehouse. Swinging the ring of the key around his finger as they set foot outside, the two are greeted to stylized homes that are situated up the thick trunks of trees, some with rope ladders, the others with a proper stairway built in spiraling up to the front door. The weather is cool without being too much, but here there's little snow... As if this place was perpetually caught between Spring and Winter. ]

S'like a...mini Nara?

[ Kind of! ... but the cat's also out of the bag as to why he specifically chose these kinds of rentable homes. The ancient tree and the city it seemed to protect...it held a special place in his heart for what that trip meant to him. What it meant to the two of them. Now they just had to go find theirs! ~~Thankfully, no climbing. Just stairs. LJKFDSA~~ ]

There is quite a lot of pressure on us, being Season Power Holders, but we must all do our best while we are here.

[ She nods with a small smile. It's been a slow start from them all, she thinks, when they haven't really been sought for their help. Most of them are settling down in this new world, Ayaka and Cloud included. And here they are, traveling Coldreach and exploring what this place has to offer.

Where Cloud takes her is definitely very new. On the way here, after she was told about the surprise, a growing sense of anticipation had begun to well up inside her. Seeing it all now, the tall trees with little rooms being held up by the branches— or they were built around the branches? They're all so amazing, either way. It's nothing glamorous like a prestigious resort or a mansion, but this is the most perfect spot for them right now. ]

This is amazing! [ She doesn't mean to, but she lets go of Cloud's hand so she could take a few steps forward to look around some more. ] I imagine it is much cooler at the top, because of all the leaves!

Where shall we go next? [ There are so many treehouses, Cloud!! LOOK!!!! ] We must look around at once and find our own tree, Cloud!

[ She'll come back for him, at least, and give his hand the tugtug it deserves. ]

[ Cloud's hands go to his hips as he watches her venture ahead with a sense of wonder. Internally, he's already satisfied with his choice in taking her here. ]

Apparently ours is supposed to have a stairw-whoa.

[ Cloud's cut off briefly by her tugtugging his hand, but he collects himself straightaway, the two of them taking their time to observe as most of the treehouses are unoccupied. Save for the occasional staff member or cleaner coming in and out of various ones to ensure they're up to standard and safe. ]

According to the pics they shared, we're supposed to get a pretty good view over the woods and at the observatory from the balcony.

It is so innovative to make something like this... I can only imagine this area would be bustling with guests during festivals in this area.

[ But right now? It seems so peaceful and quiet! And for Cloud and Ayaka, and after everything they've gone through last month, they needed something like this.

And when they pass by some people, tourists and workers alike, Ayaka gives a small bow of her head as a greeting. ]

Are there any amenities offered to us, apart from the lodgings?

Maybe we can scout this place for a future one? [ A beat. ] Like the one you and Kaveh ran.

[ "Are there any amenities offered to us, apart from the lodgings?" ]

Let's see, there was...

[ Cloud brings out his phone and brings up the filed message he received when making his initial booking. Walkin' and scrollin' ]

Private shower, free bathrobes, free transit via cable car to and from the observatory...

Maybe! Though... what should we celebrate next? Martial arts would be exciting, but I am sure there are other things we can highlight.

[ He could even make his own suggestions! ]

A cable car— like the ones in Nippon, yes? I'm sure the sights we'll see when we ride it will be absolutely magnificent.

Edited 2023-06-26 12:06 (UTC)

We'll put "Martial Arts Festival" in the maybe pile, then.

[ But suggestions would be coming. There's zero doubt about that. ]

By the looks of 'em, yeah. [ A beat. ] Think I'll pass on the hypersonic trains this time...

[ Cloud's still learning to cope with motion sickness. lksjfad ]

No, none of that here.

[ She gives Cloud's hand a squeeze as she shakes her head. She'll protect you from the bad trains, Cloud. 😡 ]

And if I may tell you a secret. . . [ She knows he won't tell, unless he absolutely has to. It's not necessarily a secret, but... an admission made especially for him. Ayaka's smile is so endearing, so sweet. . . there are no words that she could say that aren't the truth. ] I much prefer traveling the long way with you.

[ She's held his hand for so long. Squeezed it for reassurance time and time again. Yet it didn't matter how many times she would console and comfort him. Every time would leave him with a sense of wonder in those bright eyes of his. He's mentioned before just how lucky he felt to be with her. That she gave him a reason to feel normal. That everything continued to make sense when he was with her... He felt lost until she gave him a place to feel at home. He felt more confident moving forward because of her. He felt driven because of her. Like anything that would come from home can be bested if it meant she was waiting for him at the end of the journey. ]

Well, [ He squeezes her hand right back...before loosening his grip so that he can let go. ] hard to think of better company than you.

[ All so he can slip his arm around her waist, gently cradling her against his side as they come up to their lodge. ]

This is it.

[ Plenty big enough for the two of them! With a lovely view out the side, as promised. Their little getaway... ]

Our own treehouse!

[ They've already passed by a bunch, but this amazes Ayaka all the more. This is just for them!! No doubt there would be sakura floating around her and dancing, were they still in Nippon. Not that Ayaka truly needs those to properly convey her happiness, in the first place. ]

Hehe. Let us get settled, then. [ A quick and tight hug for him!! Just before she takes his hand again so they can climb up together. Cloud's got their belongings, so Ayaka leads the way up, only giving him space once they're by the door. ]

Oh, I wonder if we have something to make tea with...

[ Ayaka you're on vacation and you're still thinking about making tea???? DON'T LET HER DO IT CLOUD ADSGDH ]

Looks way better kept than the Nara ones.

[ That went without saying. Those were more or less temporary little hideaways to watch fireworks or shooting stars. But the point still stood! With their belongings in tow, he notices that there's a separate walkway up the steps...looks like it heads for the balcony! It's not the biggest space, but enough is comfortably fit inside for a couple. A cozy bathroom with a full-on glass shower, queen size bedding, a clear shot to the balcony via doorway, ]

Prolly not.

[ He hates to be the bearer of bad news, Kamisato Ayaka, but. You two? Are on VACATION. ... .... ..... be that as it may, he knows her. She was the saddest kitty when she didn't pour for him in the past. ]

If I order us some, you pour?

[ Ayaya always pour. 😤 Reaching into his pocket for the key, it's a traditional one instead of anything like a card. But at least it's not giving him any grief once he slots it in and turns it! A sense of relief washes over him knowing that they're finally here. For this particular trip, he's left the Buster Sword at home and instead traveling with Tsubaki. Easier to carry around, especially into a treehouse like this! Now they just need to put their belongings down.

There might not be a tea set waiting and ready for them, but whenever the two of them finally make their way to the bedroom up ahead? There's a gift basket waiting for them. Compliments of the staff running these treehouse lodges. Pleasantly folded up house coats, candles that have been said to be blessed by the essence of eternal Spring and cool Winter nights (certain to leave you feeling refreshed yet pleasantly cool), brochures revolving around their services and the Coldreach Observatory, among other little treats!

...

As well as...ah, something 'extra' for the young couple. ~~Shouldn't have mentioned it was an anniversary, Cloud. 💦~~ ]

It was wishful thinking.

[ Listen, if she could make tea for him while he relaxed after a long day? That would be the best. But that's okay, they can have tea later on! There's bound to be room service, or if they decide to eat out...?

Ayaka takes a look around the main space, now that they're inside. Behind the bed is a window overlooking the ground. Lots of trees and flowers, ones that can't grow in humid and hotter areas. She'll have to buy a book about the flowers, here! There are some that aren't even present in the greenhouse she worked for when she first arrived... ]

Ah, there's a note.

[ Ayaka hasn't even seen the. . . gifts yet, instead sitting by the foot of the bed, pulling the basket of goodies next to her before plucking out the card. ]

"Thank you for your patronage, Mr Strife! We hope you and your partner enjoy your stay. May the two of you make wonderful memories here."

[ That's very sweet! Now then, what tokens were they given? ]

Robes to wear, and even candles! They must truly want us to relax. And a map for when we go around... And— [ Okay, she sees it now. In fact, she has touched the box and let go of it rather quickly once she figured out what it was. She's seen it before. In Nippon... ] A- Ah... We've never used these before. . .

[ Setting Tsubaki down against the nearby wall at the front entrance, Cloud isn't far behind Ayaka as they notice the little basket of goodies on the bed. ]

Can't say they didn't go the extra mile...

[ Because this? Was not planned! More specifically, neither were the...

Ah. ]

Huh?

[ Cloud reaches out for the box she's dropped like it just bit her, and before he even reads it, visually he can already tell.

...

He's still holding the box. His face? Bright red. Lips? A nice and tight line until finally, ]

I, uh...didn't...ask for...

[ Condoms, Cloud. You can say it. ~~WERE THEY EVEN THE RIGHT SIZE?!~~ ]

[ Didn't ask for these? Then... did he not think about that here? On their anniversary trip?

Ayaka has to pause and swallow thickly, before looking up at Cloud. ]

W- We would still... [ fasdg SHE CAN'T FINISH THE SENTENCE... ] Would we?

second week of june

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

1/2

2/2

no subject