Asgard Academy
Year 2: Part III
[ Index ]
xxxxxxxxx
Complete, unadulterated perplexity.
That’s what Fenrir felt after following Artica to her house’s tiny backyard and hearing everyone yell ‘Happy birthday!’ at the top of their lungs. Confetti flew here and there while the smell of homemade venison pot roast with gravy filled the air. There was even a small pile of packages on the table. Were those gifts? For him? Now that was unheard of.
“Wh-? You didn't have to. I-”
“It is not about having to, honey, it is about wanting to,” Rúri interrupted, putting a headpiece with wolf ears on him, followed by a silly and colorful conical party hat. Everyone else was wearing bunny ears, including Artica’s parents.
“Thank you. This is my first birthday party in a very long time…”
The food was delicious, the gifts were amazing, and the company was heartwarming. It was perfect from top to bottom, and Fenrir was truly grateful for their kindness. Just after blowing out the candles, Karianne got everyone in position for a picture.
The scene immortalized in a polaroid showed Bud pushing Fenrir’s face into the homemade cake while keeping Artica away with his other hand. In the background, Syd restrained Rúri to prevent her from choking the older twin.
Truly, picture perfect.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Everyone quieted down when the co-captains cleared their throats. The girl spoke first.
“The School Board has made a decision on who will be sponsored for the Archery Tournament.”
Several eyes drifted to the only Black, who was fidgeting with one of her handmade arrows.
“Congratulations are due to Miss Reynirdóttir, who will represent the Academy in the upcoming tournament.”
There was a general agreement and a few congratulatory words, but the other co-captain sensed something was off, and couldn’t help asking. “Is there something on your mind?”
Artica had a helpless smile on her face. “I am deeply honored that the School Board selected me, but…”
The fact that there could be a ‘but’ bewildered everyone in the club.
“I signed up as an independent participant the moment the inscription was open and can no longer modify it.”
The co-captains eyed each other. Was this girl insane? Why in the Nine Realms would she be that rash, when the School Board had already given the date for their announcement? Everyone, including her, had worked hard during the examinations, so how was this possible?
“I am unable to represent the Academy, but there is no shortage of skilled archers in this club. I have no doubt the runner-up is ready for this challenge.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“You declined?”
“Go ahead, say it. P, Pa, and Bud already chewed me out for it yesterday.”
Fenrir looked at her with a confused expression. “I’m in no position to do that, but I don't get it. I thought that is what you were aiming for since the start of the school year.”
“It was, until our visit to the Viking Tiger family manor.”
“Oh?”
“Lady Tilda provided me with top-of-the-line equipment, bow included, and the Academy would do the same… yet it feels awkward. Those aren't my arrows, nor my armguard, and certainly not my bow. I realize it sounds childish, but it's just uncomfortable.”
Fenrir finished the last of his greasy burger and took a sip from his drink. “What did former tournament winner Boreal say?”
“That if he won with an armguard that fell apart mid-shot, a cracked leather chestguard, and a bow as old as balls, I’d be fine,” Artica replied with a laugh.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Sitting on the bench under the large tree in the southern gardens, the air felt heavy with tension. Malik tightened and relaxed his fists several times before finally standing up all of a sudden and facing him. It was better to settle this now, because every passing day, he felt himself falling behind more and more. After all, his latest invitations had been promptly declined.
“My lord, the truth is I find you attractive, and would like to formally ask you on a date.”
Fenrir didn’t move but blinked twice at his words. He smiled curtly. “I cannot say I understand how you find me attractive.”
Malik tightened his lips, sensing the answer already.
“I must refuse, but I thank you for your consideration. You flatter me.”
In many ways, he already knew Fenrir would say that. His curiosity, however, got the better of him. “Is it because of me, or something else?”
“Pardon?”
“Do you refuse because it is me who asks, or is there another reason?”
The golden eyes widened a bit, and there was a tiny hint of blush on Fenrir’s cheeks. “Oh. I, uh, happen to be interested in someone else… Accepting your invitation knowing I would be half-hearted about it would be disrespectful.”
“I understand, my lord. Thank you for your honesty.”
Of course. Bet it was that someone else, no doubt. Malik let out a sigh, feeling somewhat relieved despite it all. He knew he’d been a dick a few times in the past, and worried that would stir Fenrir away from him, yet it seemed it was the same old obstacle he couldn’t overcome that had finally beaten him.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Artica moved the cat toy from left to right, at the expense of an exhausted Thelonious. “I invited him to the music pub.”
Rúri started mixing more enthusiastically. “Oh? Good choice! Sweetie, did you hear that?”
“Hair down, loose skirt, and stockings (height is your choice)!” Karianne yelled from the other room, busy writing down notes for their culinary presentation. “We already discussed this back at the girls’ night. You have this one in the bag.”
The Black smiled as the memory came back to her.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“Why did you not tell him yesterday? You were alone in his room, and there was a guarantee of no interruptions.”
“The meeting. Y’know how much he overthinks everything. I was afraid he'd just fixate on that and not discuss whatever it was he needed to ask your parents."
"Very thoughtful of you, but also a waste of such ideal circumstances," Karianne said. She was wrapped like a burrito in a fluffy, green blanket.
Rúri was busy stroking Syd's beautiful white cat, Giada. She purred tenderly on the blonde's lap. "Then why did you not tell him afterwards?"
"Chickened out; don't have an excuse for that."
"If I may," Ritva politely intervened. "Based purely on the last few days, during which I’ve seen you interact, he seems to greatly enjoy your company."
Artica gave her a small smile. "We’re very good friends."
"Yes, that is clear, but when you asked if he was going to finish his chocolate mousse last night, he looked like he was going to melt."
"What? Do tell us more, honey!" Karianne requested, unrolling herself from her blanket. "I have to sit on the other side of the table, I miss all the good stuff!"
"Miss Reynirdóttir gave him these big doe eyes… asking for the rest of his dessert. To be fair, I would’ve given you mine too."
Artica let out an embarrassed, awkward laugh. "Oh… but it was so delicious! I just- and he said it was okay!"
"Of course he said that! What kind of asshole would decline? But considering his sweet tooth…"
Rúri shoved a handful of snacks in her mouth, thoughtful. "I think you should just go ahead, dear. You get along so well, it feels like a natural development… and you are his favorite, after all."
“His what?”
There was an awkward silence. Rúri went suddenly blank, but Karianne was giving her the stare which meant she had to clarify right now. “W-well, is it not the truth? He teams up with you whenever possible, you frequently share food and other items, and usually turns to you for help…”
“That’s non-specific to being romantically interested. That’s just a normal friendship.”
Karianne sat on the bed with her legs crossed, supporting her chin on her hand. “Sweetie, you are close friends with Bud too. Actually, you two are best friends, and it feels entirely different. I am confident my darling and you share at least one brain cell, but with Fenrir? No, it is not the same.”
Artica let out a sigh before gently collapsing over a pillow. “I feel so silly. You’re right. I should’ve just spilled it out and been done with it, regardless of whether I think he’s interested or not.”
“No, no, there is no rush either. Per your hobby, I believe you agree there is such a thing as ‘thrill of the hunt’, yes?”
She laughed, nodding at her words. Rúri passed the snack bowl with a smile. “It is settled, then. There is a Northern Wolf out there. Happy hunting!”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Karianne found him sitting outside one of the greenhouses. “Bud said you would like to speak to me in private?”
“Yes. I hope to not take too much of your time.”
“Do not be silly, honey, it is no trouble. How may I help you?”
Fenrir’s gaze focused on the fountain across the courtyard. “I’m going to hang out with someone I’m interested in, but I have… questions. A different perspective would be helpful.”
The girl with black curls crossed one leg over the other. “In case it gets physical? Or what exactly are we talking about?”
“Yeah… I mean, not that that’s the only thing on my mind!” he quickly clarified. “I just don’t wanna make a fool out of myself, doing something inappropriate. Bud said that, sometimes, something physical happens before you actually say the thing.”
“He is speaking from experience.”
Fenrir said nothing.
“Do you know how to kiss?”
“No.”
“Would you like me to teach you?”
Fenrir knew Karianne was just teasing him, but somehow felt a new need to clarify. “I would rather not, my lady. Should someone hear about it, I see no way to justify it to your partner, or… the person I'm interested in.”
Her magenta eyes fixed on him like a hawk on its next prey. “If I asked who this person is, would you answer me honestly?”
“Would you keep that knowledge between us?”
“Yes.”
“Then yes.”
She laid her hands on her lap in a patient gesture. “Who is it?”
Fenrir was blushing so hard, even the tips of his ears were scarlet. Karianne repressed a squeal of victory when the name she was expecting came right out of his mouth. Hearing him finally say it out loud was so satisfying.
“Well, would you look at that~! And yes, it would be difficult to explain if I gave you practical lessons… so I will try to be as clear as possible with words only.”
"Bud tried and-"
"That fool would not be able to explain the delicate art of kissing if his life depended on it."
Fenrir lowered his gaze. "Maybe I wouldn't understand either way."
"Oh, sweetie, that is not what I mean. You two are too different, just like Artica and I are also different. Kissing is not just about your mouth. It is about intimacy, closing the gap between one heart and another…"
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
They had slowly closed the gap between them with each passing song and were now right next to each other, knees touching lightly. Artica sheepishly side-eyed Fenrir, still in disbelief over how different he looked wearing a sweater over a button shirt instead of his usual hoodies. Fenrir couldn’t believe his luck either; it was uncommon for Artica to wear her hair down, but boy, it looked so good on her...!
They noticed each other’s gaze. Fenrir, trying to remember Karianne's tips, leaned a bit in her direction and for a moment, it seemed to him she was doing the same.
Artica was more than ready for this, her chest tight with anticipation. That was, until the next band started playing. The singer's voice stung her like a poisoned knife, and she immediately turned to the stage.
It was her, no doubt about it. Long, dark hair, and big, bright eyes, singing with such spark, the whole venue was hooked. Artica was too stunned to take her eyes off the singer, and for the rest of their performance, didn’t dare move. However, the song cover played by the last band kickstarted some courage back into her, and as they were exiting the pub, she turned to him.
"Hey, Fenrir, the truth is I really li-"
But then she heard it. That melodious laugh that used to be around her all day long. A few paces behind him stood a girl with glass earrings Artica would recognize anywhere. Her eyes darted from the singer to Fenrir several times, her heart broken all over again.
"Yes…?"
The last of her courage disappeared. "I, uh… I like the live music here! Very trendy, right?"
Fenrir gave her a small nod. Even if he didn’t know what she was going to say, he could tell that was not it. "Yeah, the bands that played today were neat."
It was clear something was bothering her, yet he was unable to ease the tension. In silence, they walked to the train station, and when Fenrir passed the gates, Artica did not follow.
He tilted his head. "Is something wrong?"
Artica wanted to nod but shook her head. "I just remembered I need to pick something up from a friend of Ma's."
"I understand," Fenrir said, but his tone hinted otherwise. He shuffled around his bag and pulled out a cat-shaped mint chocolate. Artica's favorite. "Here, for the walk home."
She took the treat, unsure on how to feel about it. "Thanks. I'll see you on Monday."
"Yeah, and…" he gave her a half smile. "Sorry if I… made you uncomfortable."
"What?"
Fenrir was already walking towards the platform and did not look back. She felt a sting in her chest. Now that was great; making him feel it was his fault the night ended with a low note. Artica started her way back home full of self-reproach.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“You almost had it!” Syd encouraged her with a sympathetic smile.
Rúri sipped her tea quietly. “May I ask why this girl…?”
Artica gave them a short explanation, realizing she had never really told them the whole thing.
“Dear, you are stretching yourself thin,” the blonde said after a while. “You want to reach out for Fenrir, but your other hand is still clinging to this girl. If nothing else will come of it, you must let her go.”
The other two stared at her in silence, impressed by her eloquence. Syd rubbed Artica’s arm gently. “She is right. You should move forward, even if you feel the same thing might happen.”
Rúri offered her the fruit tartlet. “No, you must trust it will be different this time. Every time.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
"I think you might be overreacting."
"No, you don't understand. I leaned in as you suggested, but she didn’t turn, or shake her head. She flinched away from me!"
Fenrir covered his face, mortified. Karianne squeezed his hand sympathetically, wishing she had talked to Artica beforehand. "Maybe she just chickened out, you know?"
"Maybe I should just drop it. I would rather let these feelings rot inside me than ruin our friendship."
"Coward."
Fenrir turned to her with a bewildered expression, but Karianne only narrowed her eyes.
"You are the one chickening out! One single negative instance, regardless of the many positive ones, has you like this? Truly, I thought better of you."
He tightened his lips, equal parts annoyed and ashamed. "It’s easy for you to say! You’re outgoing, charming, and popular! I'm not like that. I'm awkward, clueless, and hopeless. I cannot afford to lose the only friends I barely managed to make."
"Who was your first friend?"
"She was! You know that! She asked, explicitly, to be my friend! And I wouldn't have talked to you, or the others, if it wasn't for her."
Karianne let out a deep sigh. She lightly combed his hair with her fingers. "Fenrir, you are overthinking one little thing, and that will get you nowhere. Have you ever considered she might do the same? Fret over what she has said to you, or done in your presence? Worry you might think she is embarrassing?"
"She is not, it irks me when she says that."
The girl with magenta eyes smiled. "Look, let's make a deal. You already tried to approach her once, and it did not go as you expected. Try one more time, and if she explicitly does not feel the same, then that is that. You may continue with your friendship and let those feelings dry inside of you. The point here is that one attempt is not enough. Have some courage and try again."
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Vaito stared at the piece of paper, trying to understand the messy handwriting. He gave up almost immediately. ‘I can’t read this. You want Sis to do what?’
The Blue let out a sigh, aware his handwriting was not, and would probably never be, aesthetically pleasing. ‘Remember the banner she made for your first match? Something like that, but smaller.’
‘Hm… Is this aside from the one Bud requested?’
Fuck Bud, Fenrir thought. ‘Yeah, whatever he asked for, that’s got nothing to do with me. I want…’
It took a while for Vaito to write all the details down, but he nonchalantly asked for payment upfront. ‘Sis needs to buy all the materials to start working.’
Fenrir didn’t mind and added a little extra. ‘No word of this to anyone, please. Only your sister and you will know about it.’
‘Why? Is it a surprise?’ Fenrir gave Vaito a look congratulating him for stating the obvious. ‘Of course, full privacy. Promise.’
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Conversation over lunch was lively while they discussed their winter break vacations. The treasure hunt, the paintball fights, the pijama party, the ice skating over the frozen lake, and so much more. It was only when a soft thunk echoed that they suddenly went quiet. Artica had been silently sliding off to the side until she finally bumped into the wall, asleep.
“Oh… She’s been hitting extra practice sessions after school and club activities for several weeks now…” Bud explained quietly. “It seems it’s finally catching up with her.”
“What time is it?”
“13:21.”
“Good, she can still rest until the next class period,” Rúri said, gently nudging her shoulder. “Sweetie, come with me. I know where you will be more comfortable.”
Artica went along groggily, not particularly aware of what was happening. Fenrir tried to go with them, but the blonde raised her hand to stop him. “It is alright, dear. I will just drop her off. You can go get her before class.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
He walked in quietly, trying to make no noise. The Academy was known for covering students' every need, and that included a place to rest if they felt unwell, or simply tired. Fenrir noticed there was only one person there. Gently, he nudged her shoulder.
"Artica," he whispered. "Lunch time is almost over."
She stirred a bit but became fully alert after recognizing his voice. Artica desperately tried to rub the sleepiness out of her eyes. "Thanks for waking me up."
"No problem," Fenrir answered, taking a deep breath. "I have something for you."
She felt a sudden rush but did her best to ignore it. It didn’t help that they were alone, in a dimly lit room. He pulled a box out of his jacket and handed it to her. Artica opened her eyes wide after reading the brand on the lid. It contained a pair of gloves; the pair of tan-colored, three-fingered, deerskin shooting gloves they had seen that time in the Upper Market.
"Are they really for me?"
"Yes, I…" Fenrir gently squeezed her arm, not knowing how to say what he really wanted to say. "I know it’s not about the gear, but I figured it might be more comfortable for you…"
Her heart was aching terribly. Artica ended up hugging him. "Thanks, I love… them. I will treasure these gloves forever."
Just like I treasure you. Her heart ached even more, ashamed those words did not dare leave her.
Fenrir returned the hug with one arm. One phrase, that is all he had to say to free himself from that sting in his chest.
You are dear to me and I'm sorry I'm not brave enough to say it out loud yet.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
The two siblings took a deep breath.
“This brings back memories,” the young man said, looking at the competitors doing last-minute checks on their gear.
“Remind me, how old were you at that time?” the woman with cream-colored earmuffs asked. “Seventeen too?”
“Almost eighteen; that year it got delayed a few months.”
“Really? Time flies! You know, it is not fair to the other competitors, but I am hoping the cup will come home once again.”
He had to laugh. “Don’t let him hear you say that, he takes this event too seriously.”
“Yes, but he is also terribly obvious. I am hoping we can…” she was saying, but a sudden push from behind cut her off. As she turned around, an Academy student was already bowing in her direction. The woman could tell it was an Academy student because he followed etiquette without skipping a beat.
“Apologies, my lady,” he said in an eloquent tone. It caught her attention that he was wearing an awfully familiar scarf. “Have I hurt you?”
“Not at all, my lord, all is well,” she answered with a short bow.
“We need to hurry, it’s about to start!”
The student side-eyed the person who called out to him. He gave them a final nod and went off to join a group of loud teenagers in the stands.
The man sighed. “Well, I guess we should head back too.”
“Yes, let us go to our seats. I am sure we will be able to talk after the tournament is over.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“Alright. Syd you take this end, please, and I’ll get the other one,” Bud was saying, handing him one pole of the banner he had commissioned from Aalu. There was a small collective gasp as they unfurled it to reveal a stunning illustration of a dark bird with penetrating bright eyes on a light green background. Unlike the banner Aalu made for her brother, this one had no text on it.
“‘Silver-eyed Hawk’, of course,” Levina's voice said nearby. “She will be greatly pleased.”
Fenrir noticed she was right next to Vaike, Vaike's sister, and a graduate he knew by sight but not by name. Their corner was packed with other familiar faces from the Academy as well. Asgrim, Heimrik, and some junior Blacks, seniors who seemed more interested in chatting than the tournament itself, and even teachers enjoying their day off.
Bud noticed a couple waving from the other side of the field, pointing excitedly at the banner.
“Wow, Embla and Reynir got some pretty neat seats! Is it because their daughter is competing?” Fenrir asked, surprised.
“Indeed! Look, they are rather close to the area Father is sitting at!” Karianne added.
Bud side-eyed them with a smile. “Nah. They got those seats because…-”
“There she is!” Rúri interrupted, pointing towards the center of the field, where many other people were getting in line.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Artica eyed the other competitors curiously.
Several were wearing what was basically a uniform; matching gear and clothing with this or that badge. The student selected to represent the Academy, the male co-captain, was no different, a navy blue outfit with the school’s coat of arms on his back, and on his hat. It was a great look.
Artica herself was wearing a white long-sleeved blouse and jeans, both in a tight fit. Her boots reached just under her knees, and were the same worn, black leather as her chestguard and armguard. The quiver Bud gave her for her birthday hung from her belt, and Fenrir’s precious gift was already on her hands. It was not a homogeneous look, with the mismatching bits and pieces, but this was what felt more comfortable to her.
A blond tournament officer with cheerful green eyes took a step forward and reached for the microphone on the podium.
“Welcome to the annual Archery Tournament that seeks to strengthen the bonds between our Kingdom and the Asgardian Principality! We thank Crown Princess Freyja, from the Winged Crown, and Crown Prince Adalhar, from the Illustrious Fox, for joining us today!”
Both royals stood from their privileged seats and waved at the cheering crowd. Teenage Freyja looked rather short next to Adalhar, who was already past his mid-twenties.
“To all the spectators, thank you for your support, and we hope you enjoy today’s magnificent skill display!” the man continued, ecstatic. “To all the competitors, glory is within your reach! May your arrows strike true for victory!”
The crowd cheered again, and it was only then that Artica noticed the large banner on the far side of the field. She recognized those right under it and was flattered to see other familiar faces cheering when her name was mentioned. Even the former Archery Captain was there!
As everyone took their place, Artica did a few stretches.
"Nervous?"
She turned to the blond man with green eyes, smiling. "A bit, a bit, but it's nice to see a familiar face here on the field. And you?"
"I have been a tournament officer for over ten years now, so this is business as usual to me, but I am excited to finally see you in the Asgardian line-up! Do your best. Whether that results in winning the event or not, it is unimportant.”
They waved goodbye to each other as the horn for the first round blasted loudly.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Shit.
Shit. Shit. Shit. SHIT.
How could she miss that moving target? She hunted moving targets for sport, this was fucking ridiculous! Even the crowd gasped in disbelief as her arrow flew off center and hit a tree.
So far, every time an archer missed a shot that would grant them the points to move forward, they were eliminated from the board. The foreign archer that had been keeping up with her didn’t miss and was now ahead. They were the last two.
Shit.
Artica was biting her lower lip, frustrated. With only one shot left, there was no way to gain that point back. Ugh! How could she miss that moving target!
She turned around at the gentle tap on her shoulder. The foreign archer gave her a small nod. “You are skilled, Asgardian. I was hoping for someone like you to show up today.”
“Thank you. You are quite skilled yourself. I guess I will be the first to congratulate you on your victory.”
“No, I have not won anything yet, and I would like it to be more interesting than this. Would you be up for a trick shot?”
The Black raised an eyebrow. There was indeed a clause somewhere in the tournament rules that allowed deviations in shot types, and for some reason, whoever wrote that clause thought it would be entertaining to allow trick shots as well, if the finalists both agreed on it.
She knew a few trick shots; after all, that was really riled crowds up. The thing was, she didn’t know this archer’s trick shots, and that was the key to everything. As they were not required to perform the same trick, the complexity of what they chose to do was what truly defined how many points it was worth. Artica needed at least 2 to win, but she could tell this archer had some ridiculously cool trick in mind, otherwise they wouldn’t have suggested this in the first place.
Nodding to herself, she narrowed her eyes and gave them her best smile. “Let’s do this.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
She eyed the change of plans with curiosity. “Well, what an interesting development. What do you think this trick shot is even about, Crown Prince Adalhar?”
Her foreign counterpart eyed his own pamphlet, an eyebrow raised. “It is interesting indeed, Crown Princess Freyja. You Asgardians are full of surprises, I know that well, so I am eager to wait and see."
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
The tournament officer looked at the contents of the paper bag, unconvinced. “Are you sure?”
“I have no choice; it has to be that one. Don’t have the equipment for something more elaborate, and if I nail it, it would be like a 5+ point combo, right?”
“If you nail it, yes…”
“You don’t think I can?”
“It is not that. I just wish it had not come to this. Trick shots are, well, tricky! The archer from my Kingdom might have something even more extravagant up their sleeve. I cannot help thinking that after they said you could go first.”
“We’re about to find out. Put the stuff on the tray and on my signal, yeet it into the air.”
The blond man emptied the paper bag. He pushed his glasses up as he sighed. “Ready.”
“On my mark. 1… 2… 3!
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
A thousand eyes widened as the arrow pierced all the items and then lodged itself into the very center of the middle target at the back of the field.
The young man was shaking his sister in disbelief.
“No. Fucking. Way! She nailed it! SHE NAILED THE-!”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“FRUIT. SALAD. SANDWICH!” the foreign archer said, laughing out loud between every word as they twirled the arrow in their hands. It caught a piece of bread, an apple, a peach, a banana, and another piece of bread (in that order) in midair. The fletching prevented the items from sliding off, so everything arrived safely at the target destination.
“This is so ridiculous, I love it!” the archer cackled in delight.
The tournament officer politely asked him to proceed with their own trick shot, but they declined.
“No, thank you. I do not want to make a fool out of myself trying to top this fucking FRUIT SALAD SANDWICH.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“… and finally, the winner of this year’s Archery Tournament is Artica Reynirdóttir, from the Asgardian Principality!” the officer announced with a big smile, giving the participant next to him the metal cup. The locals in the crowd cheered when she held it up for all to see, but a specific corner full of teenagers went wild.
Artica came down the stage, and was surrounded at once by a reporter, two photographers, and Crown Princess Freyja, who wanted to personally congratulate her on that preposterous win. However, after a few minutes, the blond man gently touched her shoulder.
“May I have a final word?”
“Sure, Ka- Officer,” Artica replied, excusing herself and following him into the tent used by the event organizers. She almost dropped the cup in surprise. “What are you guys doing here!”
“Hey, lil’ sis!” Boreal greeted her with a tight hug, lifting her off the ground for a moment. “You’ve grown up so much, you finally made your own Sandwich! Formally graduated from Hawkling to the new Silver-eyed Hawk!”
When he let her go, Polar pinched her cheeks gleefully. “As expected, you snatched that cup right out of foreign hands! We can guard it at home once more!”
The blond man put his hand on his chest, shocked. “Darling! How can you say such a thing!”
“No, no, sweetie, do not give me that look! I know you were cheering for her too!” she said, wagging her finger.
“No point denying it, Kalervo, you’re a man that wears his heart on his sleeve, and it was truly with me,” Artica said with a big smile, squeezing his arm.
“Well, what can I say…”
Boreal then noticed what she was wearing, and quickly grabbed her hand. “Wow! Where’d you get these gloves? They’re amazing!”
His younger sister gave him an awkward smile. “Oh, they were a gift from a classmate.”
“From that one?” Polar asked, peeking out the tent and pointing at the silver-haired boy that bumped into her earlier that day.
“Y-yeah. How’d you know that, P?”
The older sister turned around with a seemingly innocent smile. “Well, he is wearing the hand-knit scarf I made you.”
That was the second time Artica almost dropped her hard-earned cup. Her face turned scarlet.
“I-I-I can explain!” she squealed, realizing it was not entirely true. She knew why he had the scarf, but not why he was wearing it.
The three adults gave her mischievous grins. “No need, lil’ sis. You are at that age, after all.”
“Oh, shut up!”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
“My older siblings, Polar and Boreal, and Polar’s husband, Lord Kalervo,” she introduced.
“Delighted to make your acquaintance, my lady, my lords” Syd replied, immediately bowing and kissing Polar’s hand. Karianne, Rúri, and Fenrir also gave them a short bow.
“A fine group of Asgard Academy students, I see,” Boreal said with an approving smile. “Except that one.”
Bud made a mocking gesture while hugging Polar. The other girls and Syd enthusiastically bombarded Kalervo with questions about the Neighboring Kingdom, which he answered at once, delighted in their interest. Artica handed Fenrir her cup and showed her where her and Boreal’s name were engraved, several years apart.
The siblings couldn’t help asking. “Are they dating?”
Bud was not surprised. “Not yet, but I’m pretty sure that’s how it’s gonna turn out.”
“No? They look pretty close to me already,” Polar said, taking note of the boy's body language.
“They’re at that awkward impasse where you sort of know it's mutual but still need to gather the courage to say it out loud. And he’s a challenge by himself."
“You’re going to have to explain that one further, because they look this close,” Boreal made a pinching gesture. “To kissing.”
“Fenrir was homeschooled until he was sixteen and struggles to understand other people’s nuances. He also seems oblivious to his own unintentional nuance.”
“Examples?”
“At the beginning of Year 1, Fenrir asked her if they could talk alone more often. He apparently meant it to avoid people from staring at a Blue and a Black mingling, but I mean, c’mon.”
Neither sibling spoke. Bud rubbed his chin, trying to remember.
“A girl from another class invited him to the Street Market; her intentions were clear. Fenrir went to that, and later that same day, invited Artica to go to the same place a week later. He apparently didn’t perceive either as a date. There was also that time he....”
“So what you’re saying is that he’s an idiot?” Boreal asked with an unimpressed look.
“No! I mean, not that kind of idiot. A little clueless, I guess. Artica seems to have a good grasp of whatever he says, though.”
“And little sis doesn’t want to expect something that might not be there,” Polar replied with a thoughtful expression.
“It is there, they’re just being really stupid about it.”
“She does like him, then?”
“Yeah, a lot.”
“Very well,” she said, and called the younger sister over. “Hey, we are going out for dinner to celebrate your victory! Why not invite your friend to join us? He is the one that comes over often, yes? Mother mentioned him.”
Artica was blushing slightly before approaching but went full scarlet at Polar’s words. She saw Kalervo enthusiastically strike up a conversation with Fenrir from the corner of her eye. “Thank you. I’ll ask him. Just…”
“Yes?”
“If he decides to come… don’t tease him, please. Fenrir’s very self-conscious, if you truly want him to have a good time, then cut him some slack and… try to smooth out any awkwardness.”
They gave her a nod as she returned to Fenrir and Kalervo. The siblings looked at Bud, who gave them a smirk. “See?”
“That was indeed very… thoughtful of her,” Boreal whispered.
Polar looked at her husband and the two teenagers beside him. “He is dear to her; I can see that. In my book, another person looking out for Artica is always welcomed.”
Bud nodded. “You know, back when she still had to wear the eyepatch, a Blue was talking shit about her in front of everyone. Fenrir called him out on it. I don’t think they were friends at the time, and Artica wasn’t even there to witness it, but I could already see there was something connecting them.”
“My heart,” she said with a hand gesture. “Do you think he can take me pinching his cheeks?”
“We already promised," Boreal reminded her with a laugh. "No teasing.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Fenrir suddenly stopped just outside the entrance. “Wait! Wait.”
Artica turned around to see him remove the hand-knitted gray scarf and neatly fold it onto her hands. “Here. I went to your house this morning to check if you needed help, and to give this back, because it was really windy, but there was no one home, and then it got chilly in the field so I kinda… Sorry. I should’ve just…”
“Thanks!” was all she said, wrapping it around her neck the second it was in her hands. “So warm! C'mon, let’s go inside.”
The boy remained frozen on the spot.
“Hm? Everything alright?”
“Is it really not a problem for me to be here?” he asked, clearly nervous. “You haven’t seen them in a while, I wouldn’t want to…”
“Not at all, and even if something does come up, I will make it my business to ensure it is not a problem for you,” she replied with a solemn face, but broke into a smile a moment later. “Fenrir, it really isn’t. Today’s a special day and I’m super happy you decided to celebrate with me!”
He looked into her eyes and calmed down a bit. Artica never offered him empty words, only honest ones. It would be disrespectful to second guess her. “Thank you… for inviting me.”
Fenrir followed her to the table. Her parents, siblings, brother-in-law, Sannfrid, and Bud had already taken their seats. The restaurant was a small, cozy place in the south part of the city, and the table was on the terrace, with a fantastic view of the clear night sky.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
The conversation had changed subjects so many times, it was starting to seem hopeless to take part in it. Fenrir’s eyes were darting back and forth, trying to keep up, when he noticed Polar was looking at him.
“Everything well, my lord?”
“Yes. I’m good. Please feel free to drop the formal language with me, my lady. I prefer it, to be honest.”
“Oh, I am aware. Mother and Father have told us a great deal about you.”
“They have?” Fenrir echoed nervously.
Her husband turned to him as well, smiling. “Certainly, my lord! One of Artica’s Blue friends at the Academy. You even gave her a hand that time with the dog, is that not so?”
“Yeah… It was a coincidence, though, I’m sure Bud would’ve gotten there before something happened.”
Kalervo smiled again. “You seem like a good lad. Your parents must be very proud!”
Fenrir didn’t reply, as Artica handed him the menu and started discussing the desserts. He couldn’t help laughing at how she insisted on getting the chocolate mousse.
“Little sis, have you decided what you would like for your eighteenth birthday?”
“Please accept our invitation! Come to my Kingdom, and I will make sure you see every corner of it!”
“Kalervo, it would be just after I start Year 3…”
The man sighed. “A few days should not be too bad? At least consider it after you graduate…!”
“And you, young man? What will you do?”
“Just receive the title at the Palace and call it a day, I guess...” Fenrir answered absently.
The awkward silence made him look up from the menu. Both Polar and Kalervo seemed deeply aggravated.
“I am… very sorry to hear that, my lord,” she said in a soft whisper. “I was not aware, my apologies…”
It took Fenrir a moment to understand Polar’s reaction, and it also became clear Artica hadn’t discussed the subject with her family. Syd (possibly Bud), Karianne, and Rúri knew likely because their parents told them about the accident, so he was grateful for Artica's discretion.
“It is what it is, my lady. No need to avoid the simple truth.”
His words made the situation even more awkward. Neither Kalervo or the sisters knew what to reply, and Fenrir himself had nothing else to say. It was the third sibling, who’d been casually eavesdropping, that saved the day.
“What do you mean, ‘wolves in Northern Asgard’? That’s bullshit, Dad.”
Reynir, vaguely aware of what Boreal was doing, cleared his throat. “Right? A fantasy, nothing more.”
Artica immediately noticed the spasm in Fenrir’s right eye as he took an angry sip from his ale. “How many times do I have to teach you this lesson, old man!”
And that was that. The conversation got lively again, and this time, everyone felt comfortable taking part in it.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
A sudden bump shook the table. Artica let out a deep sigh while rubbing her knee before noticing everyone was staring at her. “S-sorry, it caught me off guard.”
A stray dog walked out from under the table sniffing around for scraps. Even though they were all surprised, nobody said anything. Considering the mere sight of a dog used to cause her anxiety attacks, Artica's reaction was very casual.
Polar noticed the subtle, reassuring nod Fenrir gave her. Almost too subtle. It was meant only for her, about something only they shared. The conversation started up once more, and Kalervo took the opportunity to lean into his wife and whisper.
“He is holding her hand,” he said, squeezing hers.
“I know,” Polar whispered back with a big smile on her face. “I can tell.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Artica stood by the tree, annoyed from top to bottom.
Why did this douchebag start again with his note-leaving bullshit to meet after school? She was already planning her polite, dry replies, so she could hurry back home. After all, today was the day, no more excuses. They were all going to the Walpurgisnacht (1) festival and before anything else, she was going to look Fenrir straight in the eye and tell him how she felt. If he declined, then that was that, and if he accepted, it was gonna be a hell of a night!
When she heard shuffling behind her, Artica turned around with exasperation. Fenrir had a minor heart attack after seeing such a scary expression on her face but felt relieved to see it soften right away. He was already nervous; it would not end well if Artica was angry (whether at him or someone else).
“Hey…! I’m glad you could come…!”
She felt her chest tighten. This was not what she thought was going to happen. Why did he leave a note to meet here in the school gardens, of all places? Why not her house, or the place by the creek? And what was he holding behind his back? Artica couldn’t keep her mind from flooding with endless scenarios.
“H-Hey…! What a surprise! I didn’t think the note was from you.”
Fenrir suddenly realized that, unlike him, she had already experienced situations like this. Why wouldn't she, being a normal teenager who could grasp other’s feelings so naturally?
His hands started to shake at the possibility of looking like a fool and wished he’d thought about that beforehand, but he was so tired of thinking everything beforehand. He just wanted to say this one thing on his own terms and hope for the best. Fenrir pulled his hand from behind his back, carefully holding what he brought.
“Artica, I… I wanted to…”
She opened her eyes wide. “Is that… a Winter Rose?”
“Y-yeah, I brought you one from…”
“…the bush under your Lady Mother’s window?” Artica interrupted, with a shaky tone. She could not, would not, believe what was happening. “F-for me?”
“I… brought it because…” Fenrir came closer, right in front of her. He stared at the flower, shuffling words in his head. Because what? You know what, so just say it!
He knew his feelings were true; he’d definitely thought about them, and her, as often as the day allowed. He’d prepared for the worst-case scenario time and time again, considering himself unworthy of a victorious outcome. Fenrir was okay with it, or at least he thought he was, but didn’t want to keep it hidden. Just this once, he felt it needed to be said.
Artica waited in silence, awfully aware of their slight height difference. He looked nervous and mortified, like her, and it was all suddenly clear. The thing she was convinced could not be, truly was.
“Fenrir, could it be that you… like me?” she asked in a high-pitched tone, her heart beating faster every second.
He froze, anxious. This was it. Fenrir took a deep breath and prayed for Ging to give him strength. “I do like you, a lot, and I understand if you do not feel the same way.”
Artica felt like slapping him. “You don’t understand, clearly, because I do feel the same way.”
A deep shade of red took over their faces as they stared at each other in silence. Artica took his hands in hers and gave them a meaningful squeeze.
“Do you truly like the girl who looks like a scar-faced goblin?”
“I really hate that phrase. Your scar is one of my favorite things about you,” Fenrir replied, gently touching it. Self-doubt got to him too, and he avoided her gaze.
“Do you truly like… the awkward kid from up north?”
Artica cupped his cheek in a reassuring gesture and made him look into her silver eyes. There was a sparkle in them he had never seen before.
“I do. I dream of him being happy back in the mountains, not feeling awkward ever again.”
He hugged her tight and whispered. “Would you like to go out with me?”
“I would really like that, yes.”
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
Bud looked terribly disappointed. “I can’t believe you said that.”
“What! Isn’t it the mature thing to say?” he spat back, somewhat annoyed. “One can’t assume other people’s feelings!”
“Fenrir, sweetie, I know this is sort of new for you,” Karianne interrupted. “But it was obvious to everyone you had a crush on each other.”
His heart sank. “What? Truly?”
“Painfully,” Syd agreed. “Sometimes, it felt like a third person was going to have to intervene and explain it to you.”
“So, you just watched us clown around for months without saying anything? Couldn’t spare a little help?” Artica asked, outraged. There was a pale blue rose pinned to her braid.
“Bud did help me out a few times,” Fenrir thought out loud. “I didn’t always see it, though.”
The older twin felt everyone’s gaze on him and refused to acknowledge it. “I didn’t intervene.”
“You better not have, after pestering us to not do it either!” Karianne warned with her finger.
Artica grabbed him by the shoulders. “Clowning around! For months! You knew the whole time!”
He finally looked at her with a cheeky smile. “Like I said, I didn’t intervene… but I did nudge some things along. Like the Dísablót carnival.”
She let him go, her face crimson with realization. Rúri did not fail to notice this. “Oh? And what happened during the carnival, besides the general chaos caused by the thunderstorm?”
Artica covered her face. “Nothing!”
They stared at Fenrir, who could only give them a silly smile as answer.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
They’d been talking for hours; before, during, and after the festival. They laid together on the bed in the room next to Fenrir’s, on top of a million pillows, staring endlessly.
He wasn’t sure when it happened, but he knew it definitely happened. Slowly, he learned to read the expressions of her asymmetrical face, to wait for her cheerful calls, to yearn for the warmth of her touch. He couldn't claim to be as direct as Bud, or as charming as Syd, but somehow, he too learned how to love someone.
She didn’t remember thinking about it before, but she definitely thought about it now. Slowly, she noticed how gently he had always spoken to her (no matter the situation), how attentive he seemed to her voice, how caring was the warmth in his touch. She knew she wasn’t as eye-catching as Karianne, or as endearing as Rúri, but somehow, she relearned how to love someone.
Artica reached for his face with one hand, engulfed by his golden eyes. They almost seemed to shine in the dark. Fenrir grabbed her hand and pressed it gently against his cheek.
“I can’t find a way to describe it… I can only be thankful that somehow, these feelings managed to reach you.”
“I am so glad… that these feelings inside me reached you too. You are so dear to me, so precious, that being liked back is a blessing...”
“I didn’t think I would experience it at all, given… everything… but you‘re precious to me too. My precious best friend, first friend. First love.”
He moved a little closer, and his heart skipped a beat when Artica closed the gap between them. Their noses were almost touching.
“Would it be okay if I gave you a kiss?” she asked, blushing a deeper shade of red than before.
Fenrir gave her a shy smile and closed his eyes when he felt her lips on his. It was not cheeky or provocative, just a gentle kiss, connecting two souls in one gesture. He felt himself blushing too.
"Do you like cuddling?"
Fenrir was taken aback. "I don't… know…"
It suddenly occurred to Artica that, since he hadn't had a partner before, and the people he lived with were distant and cold, his parents were probably the last to cuddle him. Many, many winters ago.
She moved closer. "Cuddling is mostly holding one another close, embracing. Would you like to try it?"
At his nod, Artica gently slid her arm around him, letting him rest his head on her clavicle. "We don't have to sleep like this, just so you know. You can move whenever you want."
Fenrir didn't want to, ever. He realized how starved for touch he'd been for so long, and truly did not want to part from a gentle embrace like that ever again. His own arm wrapped around her and gave a gentle squeeze.
“Kjæreste (2),” Artica said in a sleepy tone.
“Kjæreste,” Fenrir repeated dreamily.
‘Kjæreste’, echoed in their hearts.
x+x+x+x+x+x+x
She woke up and looked out the window. It was pitch black. “Oh, shit.”
At some point, she slept face up, and Fenrir curled up next to her. Artica got off the bed and started to gather her things as quietly as possible. He still stirred after sensing the lack of warmth at his side.
“It’s a little late. I’m going home before Ma starts worrying.”
She kissed his cheek, and Fenrir immediately reached for her hand. He got up, still struggling to remember what year it was. “I’ll walk you home.”
“Don’t worry about it, go back to sleep.”
“Are you crazy? I can think of at least five people who would choke me on sight if the day we got together, I let you walk home alone while I slept. Just… gimme a moment.”
Outside of her house they shared one last embrace, and with a sheepish smile, Fenrir kissed her cheek.
“Good night, I’ll see you on Monday.”
“Oh, no, I’d like to see you tomorrow,” Artica whispered, and that’s how it started.
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
(1) Associated with the god Frey and goddess Freya. Celebration of love, fertility and the coming of Spring.
(2) “Dearest”, in Norwegian.
2 notes
·
View notes
A character interview? Is this how this called?
'Kay, a lil something before writing all the technical stuff at work tomorrow. Ugh, writing this is ways better than writing some dumb ass shit about buildings that no one properly reads, dickheads (still can’t believe there are people who are able to miss an entire chapter dedicated to calculating parking lots).
Tagged by @forevervobla
Hey, @queensforza, wanna participate?
A warm hut in a wast boreal tundra, a group of people settled in there for a rest after a long journey. The eldest of them all was napping near a fireplace, his arms crossed on his chest, his heavy armor lying under a cozy couch. A red headed girl near him, her head resting on the man's shoulder, drooling on his expensive set of clothes - the old man couldn't care more, he would forgive anything to his grandchildren. A dark skinned woman was sitting behind a kitchen counter, gulping on a bowl of meat soup; near her a white haired man was poking his stew with a fork, absorbed by a book in front of him. The other one, knife-eared, settled in a chair in a corner, away from anyone else.
Name -> "Name's Markus. Mark for short", the elf fixed the collar of his white shirt and dusted his black pants. With a look of interest in his eyes he rolled his head a bit to the right.
Are you single? -> the question made him reach out to his head, scratching the back of the head, as the thought process in his brains started running at top speed - it took longer for him to think out the answer, "Eh, yes?... I mean no", he quickly corrected himself, shaking his head in negation, pointing at something in the distance, "I'm with that guy", he blurted out awkwardly, his finger landing on a man behind a kitchen counter, "Well, it's just... I can't really tell, I didn't ask him out, neither did he. So we're just... together, I guess?" the elf raised his left brow in question as if he hoped someone would answer the question for him. His face was red, as he still wasn't used to the talks of private and intimate nature with anyone at all.
Are you happy? -> it made him move forward, his arms on his knees, "About what?" he let out a smirk, knitting his brows, "You gotta be more specific here."
Are you angry? -> "Neither. Neither angry, nor happy", Mark crossed his arms on his chest in defense, all of a sudden feeling uncomfortable from all the questions.
Are your parents still married? -> a weird question, for sure, that made the kid change his facial expression one more time, "Yeah, why shouldn't they be? The hell would sooner freeze over than those two would divorce or anything."
NINE FACTS
Birth Place? -> he wasn't as tense as before anymore, instead puzzled, trying to gather his memories together, "I... don't know", he responded, adding nonchalantly a bit later, "Well, I actually know, but it doesn't really matter, it had no affection on me if that's what you're getting at."
Hair Colour? -> "Jet black, obviously", - he answered as quickly as he could, already regretting to open up a bit.
Eye Colour? -> "Silver, I dunno."
Birthday? -> "Near the end of Evening Star."
Mood?-> "I'm deadly tired", he shifted in his chair, getting into more comfortable position by placing his leg underneath him, his entire weight put onto a table near him through his elbow, as he leaned his head against his palm, "Feels like I wanna fall into a ditch and die".
Gender? -> "Seriously?", he asked with annoyance in his voice. It should be pretty obvious, yet... "Do you see a pair of boobs on me or something? The last time I checked I had a weiner", ah, being rude felt so much better.
Summer or winter? -> "Winter I guess. No insects around this time of year."
Morning or afternoon?-> "The latter."
EIGHT THINGS ABOUT YOUR LOVE LIFE
Are you in love? -> against his will he smiled, face relaxing visibly. This couldn't've stayed for a long time, as he forced the grumpy face again on him, "Look at me and answer the damn question yourself."
Do you believe in love at first sight? -> the question made him change the facial expression one more time, as he went on full philosopher on that, "Nah. I mean, realistically speaking if you feel something of a love at first sight, it's desire that plays on you", his gaze drifted across the room, looking somewhere in the right lower corner, as the cogs in his head started turning around, "That shit is so strong it makes you mistake it for love. But the latter is kinda more subtle? " he leaned on his knees with his elbows again, gaze still drifting, "It doesn't make you want to possess or own someone, it doesn't make you feel too attached or so on in the similar key; it just...", he made a gesture with his hands, making circles in the air, straightening up his spine, "The real love doesn't make you feel all of the above, only fondness and tenderness, I guess? It also feels like you ate a shitton of chrysalides", he once again scratched the back of his head, a look of disgust appearing on his face, "and at some point they have all turned into butterflies right in your stomach and intestines... Fuck, now that's one hell of a unsettling comparison, think I'm gonna puke", he heard a snicker from the kitchen side, the woman calling him a smartass.
Who ended your last relationship?-> Mark made a loud laugh, making everyone around the hut look in his direction for a split second, "Nah, no one did. Never had any before."
Have you ever broken someone’s heart? -> "Well, I guess", he answered quietly, compared to the outburst before, "She tried to shape me into what she wanted", elf sighed, "used her magic on me, tried to manipulate me into... whatever perverted thing she meant. All she succeeded in was opening my eyes to something else entirely."
Are you afraid of commitments? -> "Well, everyone's gotta fear of it in one way or another", his voice still quiet, "I think I am, but I'm also... pretty open towards it. It just has to come from all sides involved, not from a single one, otherwise it's just... not fair."
Have you hugged someone within the last week? -> the elf smirked, smiling against his own volition one more time, gaze wondering, "No", he answered all of a sudden, voice stern, as he caught himself not being so grumpy anymore.
Have you ever had a secret admirer? -> "Isn't the whole point of secret admirer is for them to be a secret from anyone?" the elf squinted.
Have you ever broken your own heart? -> "Nah. I'm lucky I didn't have something to break my own heart over", and added silently to himself, "But boy if it's gonna happen, there will be violence."
SIX CHOICES
Love or lust? -> "Cuddles", Mark leaned against the back of the chair again, throwing one leg across the other, as if to make a point.
Lemonade or iced tea? -> "Crisp water", and then he added, excitement sparkling in his eyes, "Oh by the way, did you know that cold water tastes pointy, and the hot water tastes round?" to which the woman in the kitchen called him nerd. Oh boy, she's got a godlike hearing.
Cats or Dogs? -> "Cats, though I've a dog that certain someone", he raised his voice, looking at someone in particular, "doesn't like it as much", after getting the confirmation from the man behind the counter, elf lowered his gaze back again. The murmur could be heard, as the old man asked grumpily, awaken from his sleep, who was that asshole that didn't like dogs so much.
A few best friends or many regular friends? -> "Dunno", Mark shrugged his shoulders, "I've this bunch of dipshits, can't really tell."
Wild night out or romantic night in? -> "Whatever's most fun I guess".
Day or night? -> the question made him lean forward, his tone sarcastic, "Well, I love sleep so much, so guess it's day when I can't get shit done."
FIVE HAVE YOU EVERS
Been caught sneaking out? -> "No, I was quite good at it."
Fallen down/up the stairs? -> "Never? Not that I can remember anything, to be honest", he let his mind wander, adding after a couple of moments, "Maybe I did once or twice, but that should've happened during an emergency, so I can't remember anything."
Wanted something/someone so badly it hurt? -> "See this shiny?", he raised his left hand, pointing at the finger with a silver ring on it, filled with diamonds of various sizes. He glanced at the sleeping girl near the fireplace cautiously, "I wanted it so badly I had to get it for myself."
Wanted to disappear? -> "Yeah, well... yeah", he covered his head with hands, untangling the legs into a normal sitting position. His head then dropped loose between his knees, as he tried to hide his face this time, "I mean, there's always the time you just... want to die", his voice low and dark, "I wanted to, several times, but I'm too much of a coward to pull the stunt. But... I've something to live for now."
FOUR PREFERENCES
Smile or eyes? -> "Eyes, most definitely".
Shorter or Taller? -> Mark pointed in the general direction of kitchen, "Now look at that picky horseface behind that counter and answer the question yourself", a smug smirk on his lips.
Intelligence or Attraction? -> "What's with the weird questions? It's like "what more do you prefer: a chocolate cake or a warm bath". Anyways, I'd take a cake to a bath, hope this answers the question."
Hook-up or Relationship? -> the elf let his gaze wander once again, before settling somewhere in the left upper corner, "Well, you never know what may happen, right? Come whatever may", he let out a sigh, quickly adding, "Yeah, well, I mean... it's either the latter or none in my book", another sigh, followed by a quiet line, "It started as... the first for me, and then it turned into some sort of messed up relationship. Kind of glad it did."
FAMILY
Do you and your family get along? -> the kid snorted, "Yeah, why not? It's sometimes hard, given the amount of non related people in the family, but it's fun. Kind of fun..."
Would you say you have a “messed up life”? -> "No."
Have you ever run away from home? -> "It was impossible to run away from my grandmother, her hounds would always find me, and with my foster parents - I haven't had a need to", the elf smiled, "They're the best."
Have you ever gotten kicked out? -> "Nope".
FRIENDS
Do you secretly hate one of your friends -> Mark couldn't help but burst into laughter for a short while, "Of course! My sister's a nasty one", to which the suddenly woken up girl replied with a protesting sleepy "hey!".
Do you consider all of your friends good friends -> "Sure. They may be assholes sometimes, but they're my assholes."
Who is your best friend -> the kid looked at the kitchen counter, pointing in that direction, "Can't say I have a best friend, but she's the only one I trust the most."
Who knows everything about you -> "The old man", Mark pointed at a trying to fall asleep once again grumpy old elf, "He probably knows a lot more than I do."
3 notes
·
View notes