gachabox | Where are those crest babies?

Where are those crest babies?

Linhardt has never been the sort to enjoy fancy banquets and balls hosted and populated by nobles. Certainly he has attended them before, considering the status of his own family, but he thought he would be free of this sort of thing during his time studying in Faerghus.

Apparently he underestimated his host's love of parties.

He's been staying at the Gautier estate as a guest during his studies. Naturally, he's invited to any events held there as a result.

Tonight is a fancy affair, most likely to celebrate the homecoming of their son, Sylvain, from his own studies. That's what Linhardt assumes, however... until he sees the amount of women being introduced to the poor guy throughout the evening. Yes, he seems to be handling it all very well, but there comes a point where the redhead's charm, which drew Linhardt's attention in the first place, seems to be wearing thin.

So, after thinking it over a bit, he decides to approach Sylvain and tap him on the shoulder. Maybe he can save him from all of the (apparently) unwanted attention for a bit.

"Excuse me. Do you have a moment?"

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It isn't so much that the Gautiers love parties, but that they want to schmooze. They want to lure in the best possible wife to connect their family to someone with power, money, or both. Sylvain knew this from the beginning, but that knowledge only grows worse with time and the number of these ridiculous events he has to be the center of attention for.

And center of attention he has become. To an absolutely unbearable degree. It's fun, for the first few hours, to chat and flirt, and even dance. Eventually, though, the girls get more desperate, or at least more boring, and it's very clear which ones are doing their best to gain his favor or convince him of her family's resources. It honestly makes him sick to his stomach.

This particular group has him surrounded and almost seem to be ganging up on him, forcing him to dole out compliments, or show off, or pick a favorite... He's not sure how much more he can take...

When there's a tap on his shoulder. He turns, grateful for even a second of reprieve. Ah! The traveling scholar his parents adopted. Their earlier introduction was rushed and unsatisfying, and Sylvain thinks this man would be a much more pleasant interaction than all of the squealing gold diggers. Crest diggers?

"Certainly!" He turns over his shoulder, "sorry, ladies, you'll have to excuse me for now. Don't forget, distance makes the heart grow fonder." He has one last playful wink in him, which makes several of the girls titter in a nauseating way, and he gently takes Linhardt by the elbow and marches them both out of range.

"What did you need me for?" He asks, just a little too loudly.

Sylvain's enthusiastic reaction makes him feel certain he did the right thing by interrupting.

Unfortunately, he doesn't have a ready response to that rather loud question. Linhardt falters for a moment, before spouting out the first thing that comes to mind.

"It's about, ah. Tailoring. For your engagement party."

Oh, that would get the women talking, if nothing else would. He winces a little, feeling apologetic in case that was the wrong thing to say.

"You're needed in your suite." At the very least he hopes this will give Sylvain a long enough break to recover himself. It must be tough to deal with so many suitors at once.

Well, he's heard worse excuses. Yeah, it'll start rumors but what else is new about Sylvain? He can deal with all of that later.

"Very well!" And he sweeps the two of them up the stairs. About halfway up, once the sounds of the people lower to a din and there's no longer a direct line of sight to him, Sylvain lets out a long breath, and his perfect posture sags, just for a moment.

"Thank you for that." He perks right back up, giving Linhardt a tired smile. "I thought I was going to get eaten alive."

Linhardt is taken off guard when Sylvain takes him along with him, though he has no complaints. Even if he isn't being harassed by the partygoers, he's still terribly bored of sitting around with nothing to do.

This shakes things up at least a little.

"You're welcome," he replies while glancing at Sylvain with some concern. They might have only just met briefly, but anyone with eyes can see what's happening here. Linhardt hates the way noble parents force their children into unwanted marriages. He's certainly been doing his best to avoid that outcome for himself.

"Hopefully you have some time before they start searching for you."

Sylvain may be exhausted of being hit on by greedy women and sick of being the center of attention like a piece of meat at auction, but he is still an extrovert at heart. He doesn't want to be alone. Besides, he is extremely curious about this stranger who found the intuitiveness and compassion to rescue him.

"Probably I have until one of my parents hears the reason for my absence and calls the bluff." He shrugs. "It's better than nothing, by far."

They reach the upstairs hallway, and it's a short walk to the door Sylvain opens, leading into his room.

"There may be better hiding places but I just came here on instinct, heh." Funny because he never actually felt safe here, or funny because he's escaped parties with a new friend to come up here and have... fun... before? A bit of both.

Finally stopping his movement, Sylvain takes another look at his rescuer. "It was... Linhardt, right?"

"Hopefully I haven't caused you trouble. It isn't my intention to be a rude guest."

And while Sylvain appreciates what he did, his parents most certainly will not. Hopefully they'll manage to see some sense or at least humor in the situation and not decide to kick him out. The Gautier estate is a great place to be while he's escaping from his own home and duties.

Funny how he's helping someone else run away when running away is practically a hobby of his by now.

Still, he steps into Sylvain's room behind him, taking a glance around. The manor is nothing if not gorgeously built and furnished.

"Ah, yes. That's right. Your family has given me accommodations here while I'm studying away from home." He's still a bit surprised they agreed, but grateful nonetheless. No one troubles him while he's here. He'll have to appreciate the remaining months while they last, or they'll be over before he knows it.

"Still, I know how trying these sorts of parties can be. And you seemed like you needed a break."

Sylvain shakes his head. "Very much the opposite. I think I've lost some of my political armor, being at school so long. I didn't have to deal with... all of this, so much." He gestures back and down toward the party, and sighs, rubbing at his neck.

"You're basically my favorite guest on the whole estate now, actually." Humor will ease all the tension, right? Right.

Sylvain's room is beautiful- all dark stained woods and luxuriously matching fabrics. There's a small desk and bookshelf- the most obviously loved things in the room- but it otherwise is very impersonal.

"You do? I'm sorry to hear that. There's really nothing less sexy than a woman obviously trying to flirt with you just to get her claws in your bloodline, right?" He shudders somewhat visibly.

"I knew this would be coming. Somehow that almost makes it worse." Guess it's overshare with new friend o'clock.

"Then I'm glad I can be of assistance." He looks around again, taking in the beauty and tidiness of the room. Linhardt has never been able to keep his living spaces in such good order. There always ends up being a mess of books and papers everywhere, in addition to whatever gets lost in the chaos.

"Oh," he says, shaking his head a little, "I don't handle these things with your grace. By now I have a strong reputation for being dismissive and unkind to suitors."

Which is a good thing in his opinion... until it gives his parents the idea of simply setting him up for an arranged marriage without him first meeting the woman. If that happens, he doesn't know what he'll do.

"I'm sorry. It's no way to live, being forced into an unwanted marriage just to make children with crests. It's almost animal, in a way." And he probably shouldn't be sharing his unpopular noble opinions with Sylvain right now either, but... there he goes.

It's partially so neat because nobody has been living in it for several years, really. But knowing how to clean up after himself and be a neat and well behaved child was all part of Sylvain's learned survival skills, really. He's behaved in all of those ways in order to get away with the things he does do, as much as he "gets away" with it.

Sylvain's smile grows sardonic. "I wish sometimes I was brave enough to do that. Might be pretty satisfying... boy would that throw my reputation for a loop." He laughs, but there's little humor in it.

"I mean sometimes I do really like the girls who come sniffing around me, at least at first. They can be so charming and cute..." He sighs and shakes his head. "But they all only ever want one thing."

Linhardt gets it, maybe a little too much, and Sylvain looks up at him in actual surprise. "Yeah, absolutely. It makes me feel like a stud horse." And from the way he shivers it's clear how he makes that feel. Dirty, used, unloved.

"I take it you're in a similar boat, then?"

Linhardt has long since given up on his reputation. In some ways he's purposefully tried to tarnish it, but for the most part he just tries to stay away from home when he is able. It's a good thing his father is so busy, but his mother can be just as much of a menace when it comes to issues of his future.

"Yes, I know how you feel," he says, glancing away slightly as he continues. "I hate politics, and everything that comes with it. At the same time, I would never be able to travel and study this way without my family's wealth and influence. It creates a very difficult dilemma."

A dilemma where one enjoys privilege at the cost of freedom. Ideally, Linhardt would like to find a master scholar who would take him in and allow him to become his apprentice in crest research. So far though? He hasn't produced work worthy of notice like that.

Either that, or he'd marry someone who would support his life choices. What are the odds of that happening, though?

"It doesn't help that I haven't an ounce of charm in me. Even if I found someone I liked, I wouldn't know how to show it."

Most would say that Sylvain's reputation is quite tarnished, but all of it has been very calculated and purposeful. Not that Sylvain wants anyone to know that.

He nods along, agreeing, and slowly walking over to his bed to sit on it, gesturing with his hand to indicate that Linhardt is free to sit, either with him, or at the desk chair.

"I know what you mean. We should be grateful for all the nice things we get and how spoiled we are with luxuries and privileges, but we're still caged animals, no real freedom, no choices available. We're just cogs in the constant turning machine of crest creation. Who even benefits in the end?!" He spreads his arms out in disgusted emphasis, voice having gone low into an angry growl.

He realizes he's lost control a bit and stops himself, dialing it back and turning away from Linhardt to stare at the wall. "Sorry, I got away from myself there. You didn't need to see that."

A tiny smirk twitches to life, and disappears. "I don't know about that. I'm so charmed I'm dumping all of my dirty laundry at your feet. Maybe you're just one of those people who's more charming when he isn't trying."

Without really thinking about it, he goes to sit beside Sylvain on the bed. It's just as comfortable as he imagined it would be.

But even as he sits and listens, it's difficult not to want to reach out and offer Sylvain some sort of comfort. It's horrible to feel caged in like this, but what can he do? He doesn't have any answers or solutions. He doesn't know why society is like this, or how to make it change.

"It's okay. I get angry about it too." He offers in reassurance while watching his companion recover from his little outburst.

And then arches an eyebrow at the next comment. "I don't think I've ever charmed anyone. Except maybe a man or two. I find it easier with them." Does he care about giving away that information? Not particularly.

It's kind of nice that Linhardt chooses to sit next to him. It's especially encouraging after Sylvain's little outburst, that Linhard doesn't want to stay far away from him. It makes the whole scene feel like two old friends sharing their shit, and not like two basic strangers throwing caution to the wind. It's nice. Sylvain's never had rapport like that in his life.

He sighs and rubs and his already mussed up hair. He pauses in the movement, suddenly still, and turns his eyes sideways to Linhardt in surprise. There's a beat or two while he digests that information, and how Linhardt was so forthcoming about it.

"Really? I mean I guess it'd be different for everyone, but I think men are hard nuts to crack." Shrugs, looking straight ahead again. "I find men much harder to talk to." On what level? Up for interpretation, but the way he's responding does seem to imply some things.

if Linhardt doesn't care about giving that information out, Sylvain at least feels safe enough to very vaguely hint, but that's far more than most anyone else ever gets.

At first, Linhardt isn't sure what to make of that silence. Is Sylvain disgusted with him?

...But no. If anything he seems to be implying that he himself has at least flirted with other men before. Linhardt can't help but smile a little at the realization, even if he knows better than to try anything with the Gautier heir, regardless of how handsome he is. He can't even fathom the trouble that would cause.

"Really? You're talking to me quite easily."

Without any of that fake charm. But of course this situation is very different from what was going on at the party. HE can't really compare them.

Edited 2019-09-28 22:33 (UTC)

Sylvain can see that smile from periphery of his vision. It causes a strange sort of feeling that he can't quite explain, and he feels both more at ease and suddenly tense again at the same time.

He hasn't known Linhardt long, but Sylvain can tell he's a smart man. The secret is known, or at least suspected, and Linhardt seems to have chosen to respond to that by... teasing him. Very mildly, to be sure, but still. He smiles, and there's a little shine in his eyes.

"So I am." Sylvain can absolutely fathom the trouble that would cause, and being the kind of man he is, already desires it. His new friend deserves better than that, though, so he reins it in. Somewhat.

"I guess that makes you rather special, then."

Linhardt has never been very good at practicing self-restraint. He's going to try for everyone's sake, but when Sylvain responds to his little tease with a compliment, he truly doesn't want to simply stop.

He's going to bring about his own downfall one day. Sometimes it seems like he's actively trying to make that happen.

"Does it? That's nice of you to say."

He smiles a bit wider, glancing down at his hands in his lap.

"But we came here for you to escape offering pleasantries, didn't we? I shouldn't encourage you."

These two are riding a dangerous edge against their impulsive natures, then. Many may claim Sylvain is already riding at full speed toward his own downfall, though true consequences have yet to catch up to him. If Linhardt broke that streak, would he regret it?

He shouldn't get ahead of himself. He smiles, flashing a bit of teeth this time. "Just pointing out the truth. You're easy to talk to. I'm opening up like a cracked egg, here." Hopefully it won't end up as messy.

"Ah, right, right, sometimes I can't stop myself around a pretty face." Oh, well, that came out of his mouth before he could think about it too hard.

It's not a creative compliment by any means, but Linhardt laughs softly anyway, honestly feeling flattered despite himself. Maybe it's because Sylvain has admitted to having trouble with men, but seems at ease with him despite that fact.

"Well, you should try to stop yourself nonetheless."

Still, there's definitely a hint of a challenge in his tone. He can't seem to stop himself either... or he truly doesn't want to.

Oh, temptation. Why is he so weak to it?

Being good at flirting doesn't mean reinventing the wheel. All you need to do is present the compliments in a charming way, and make sure to cater to your audience. He thinks he's done well by the way Linhardt laughs. It lifts something up in his chest that had been so heavy until that moment.

"Mm, I suppose I should, yes." But isn't 'should' such a dirty word? And if Sylvain isn't mistaken, there's a hint of a challenge in this scholar's voice.

"But I think we just established that neither of us like doing what we're supposed to, didn't we?" The thrill of danger courses through him, making any fears or insecurities be forgotten.

Linhardt bites his bottom lip while glancing at the closed door, just making sure he doesn't hear anyone approaching.

Could they really get away with this? Maybe right now... they aren't making any promises to each other or anything like that. There's no harm in indulging a bit if they're both willing and wanting.

Of course, he's just trying to convince himself now that this is harmless.

"If that's the case... then I guess you ought to kiss me." He turns back to Sylvain and leans in closer, clearly inviting him with his body language as well.

Oh, Linhardt...

Sylvain could have danced around the subject for ages, left to his own devices, just flirt himself into a sexually frustrated corner and ended up admiring Linhardt from a distance for weeks following this party, dropping daily flirtations on him but otherwise keeping a line drawn in the sand, keeping it safe.

He vastly underestimated Linhardt.

How can he say no? How does he even deal with another man so open and willing, dropping an earnest request right onto Sylvain's lap? The knight's head spins, and he feels the rhythm of his heart stutter. He's like a stupid young teenager again, lusting after the local girls and maids, sneaking kisses in not-so-safe places.

"I guess I ought to..." He agrees, voice soft, and reaches for Linhardt's face, holding his cheek gently. A beat passes, and then he's throwing caution to the wind and pulling the other in for a kiss.

Linhardt simply isn't the type to dance around like that if he has an opportunity open to him, especially one so very clear. He feels certain there isn't going to be another chance like this time, and Sylvain... well, he is charming and handsome. There's no point in denying that.

So he waits to see if the man will actually follow through.

And? He does.

Linhardt smiles a little against Sylvain's lips when he's pulled into a kiss. He rests a hand on his shoulder while pressing back against him, enjoying the softness of his lips and eagerness with which he responds. It's a bit funny to him too, to think of all of those noblewomen waiting for this man, only to find himself on the other end of his affections.

Sylvain doesn't remember the last time he knew someone so straightforward. Maybe some of his friends at school, but still there was always something to avoid talking about, something to dance around.

He chuckles, to feel that smile against his lips. And why not? This is purely for fun. Fun, and maybe a little spite. All those women throwing themselves at him and here he is, hiding in his childhood bedroom, kissing another man instead. How they would wail if they knew.

Well, there's plenty of reasons Sylvain can think of to like Linhardt better. He slides his hand around behind the other's head, holding the back of his neck as Sylvain pushes into the kiss, pressing his tongue against Linhardt's lips.

It's easier to be straightforward about these things than... well, others. Linhardt enjoys the freedom he feels when he's doing something he's 'not supposed to do'. And while his rebellious nature hasn't gotten him into any serious trouble yet, he does try not to catch too much negative attention.

Quiet rebellion is usually more his style. Behind closed doors, like now.

His lips curl upward just a tad against Sylvain's when his hand moves to cradle the back of his neck, and pretty soon he feels the press of tongue, presumably seeking entrance into his mouth.

That he can oblige.

Linhardt parts his lips and brushes his tongue against Sylvain's, his other hand moving to press softly against the side of his face. Even now he feels sparks of arousal running down his spine and has to shift a little in place.

This is absolutely something he's not supposed to be doing, on several levels. Maybe that's why it's so much fun. Sylvain feels a thrill rise up his spine and he makes a soft sound of approval into the kiss.

Linhardt kisses back, and while that shouldn't be a surprise, it's still just nice. Each person kisses in a unique way and it's always fun to discover a new partner. Sylvain revels in it.

At least until he hears footsteps right outside the door.

Faster than should be possible he's back in his own space, hands innocently braced slightly behind him on the bed so he looks like he's been comfortably leaning backwards for minutes. The door opens just a second later and the face of Lady Gautier appears, looking cross.

"Oh hey, Mother!" He starts before she can speak, and she rests hands on her hips.

"Everyone has been wondering where you are, Sylvain! Some of your guests seem to think you're already engaged and up here having a suit fitting!"

A cocky smile spreads on Sylvain's face. "Aw, yeah, sorry about that mama. I talked our new friend here into making an escape route for me, so that I could get a moment of peace. Even party animals like me need a break sometimes! Those girls are insatiable!"

She starts to turn that cross look onto Linhardt, but Sylvain cuts that up short. "Don't blame him, okay? I put him up to it, and he was a good enough guest to help me."

She gathers herself up. "Fine. But you need to come back for the final toast and bid goodnight to all our other guests. Take a moment to re-compose yourself and come be a good host." She leaves, closing the door behind her.

"Whew, that was a close one!" Wink.

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Where are those crest babies?

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