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CloudStrifeSOLDIERX
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"I eat black wings for breakfast"
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(Oh thanks OwO)
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(You're welcome 
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A rare treat comes in the form of a calm day with crisp breezes and clear skies. Lucina lies atop the grassy terrain merely gazing up above dreamily. Blue eyes seem to travel so far away in her own thoughts. In this peace she ponders over desires and the future. Everything must come to an end. Even moments in this realm shall come to pass. It is what comes after that everything is blank. There are no paths to choose from nor people to follow upon return. She thought being accomplished brought pleasure. Sure for a while this rings true, yet this feeling is truthfully short lived. What follows is an emptiness that cannot be understood. Ironically it is comparable to being unfulfilled.
The princess utters a sigh while stretching both arms upward while on the ground. For someone contemplating something existential, especially from a supposed noble, her position is far from ladylike. It is on more par with her troubled self with wild blue locks spread about the blades of grass. Legs and arms are spread out as if she intended to make some dirt angel. What an elegant display! Lucina's brows begin to knit together the more blanks she draws. Soon she finds more frustration than any semblance of an answer. Eyes close shut hoping to dispel this foul mood. Although closed tightly as she can, light still manages to peer through trying to pry them open. Then without warning the sunlight disappears despite there not being a single cloud in the sky, well save one. Lucina curiously opens her eyes to be greeted with a familiar face. "Hello Cloud. How unexpected to see you. Er, do pardon my position. I was merely deep in thought."
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Making his casual walks like usual he adored summertime to be the best or at least, the sun being warm against his skin and the breeze calm and soothing. If people would ask, his favorite season would have to be summer. The days he were able to enjoy himself and lay back sometimes when it was that hot and play around. Remembering one time with Sephiroth and Zack when they were at a younger time was alot of fun. Except for all the dogs who were needed for a walk from Shinra. He noticed someone laying around a bit further away, thinking first it was Marth from that distance but as he got closer he realized it was Lucina. He wondered if she was okay, since she didn't seem to move all that much and her body was sprawled out so he thought first she must have passed out. Leaning over to see if she was okay he was relieved when she spoke up towards him. "I thought you fainted..that's a relief. Being deep in thought..has always made me feel uneasy sometimes. I figured today i would relax with all the other smashers. Just like those...creatures. You know..Kirby, Yoshi and Pikachu. Those..creatures wants to bathe in the ocean and have a picnic..and they invited me. I believe they invited everyone but..seeing as i only met up. I don't know.." He smiled awkwardly. "Anyway...What were you thinking about? If there is something wrong..you could always ask Chrom? Right? Or...Pikachu?" He joked then sat down with her. "I am open to listen if you want to talk."
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"Fainted? Hardly. Although I suppose my position did suggest otherwise." Lucina did not seem to budge despite what the position seems to communicate. A laziness falls over her in favor of unraveling the complicated thoughts within. Cloud's voice does not offer much help as it comes off as rather soothing alongside the embrace of warm sunlight. "I confess to feeling similar, but today is different." The term smashers did pique a curious gaze towards him as he explained what activities were going on. An image of the adorable creatures playfully having a grand time in the sea does bring a smile to her face. They always seem so expressive and happy. Even the thought invokes pleasant feelings let alone what the effect the real thing might have. "Hmm. Perhaps if I find my answer I may join them myself. I have been told that I must relax just as hard as I work." She manages to laugh somewhat at the idea. Being questioned quickly sweeps her back into the previous mental puzzle. Chrom naturally seems to be the perfect candidate being connected by blood and an unbreakable family bond. Who can possibly be better than a parent? With a simple shake of the head she shatters the expectation. "No there is nothing troubling me, but this is also something I rather not discuss with my father. As for Pikachu I do not think he would have the words I am looking for." Although her response did sound like a jape, the princess did take him seriously. Attention flees towards the skies once more in search of a possible answer. "If you do not mind. There is something I would like to ask you. "Do you have a dream, Cloud?"
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He was questioning her by thought but he wasn't sure exactly what to say to this. "Uhm..right.." He scratched his neck some, that was true. He wasn't the type to joke around. It was just merely a one time joke. "If it is not a problem then..you're free to join us whenever you feel like..doing that. I will do so too. I haven't had fun..in years." He crossed his arms at the thought of just relaxing for the day instead of non-stop fighting. However, the question of her threw him off almost instantly. "A dream? You mean..a dream to achieve or just..unreachable dreams? If so..my dream once was to become a First Class Soldier..and the unreachable dreams..was to reach First Class.." He shook his head some. "No..truly. Those were old dreams..i had to start anew..and come to think of it. I don't have any dreams ahead of me. Just..being a mercenary and selling things from Tifa's bar is everything i really do nowadays. It's a way to stay in shape. I do some missions to keep monsters away but..other than that. There is no dream to achieve.." He glanced at her. "Do you have any dreams?"
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It is strange to suddenly feel a tinge of envy in hearing his unfulfilled dreams and simple lifestyle. She did not utter a word of it to him fearing the mood will turn sour and unveil her childishness. "So you no longer have anything to achieve, but still live on? Hmm." When turning the question his way she shakes her head. A troubled look appears on her face knowing there is nothing for her to work towards. In reaching the summit there is no place higher to climb. "I did once. My dream, above all else, was to prevent my enemy from winning by changing the future. I sacrificed nearly everything for this dream." Lucina's eyes close revisiting the past when this conviction and dedication to heroism had been born. "Through sweat and blood my dream soon became realized, but as of late I fear I have nothing to pursue any longer. I am unsure what to do with myself when everything here comes to pass." Her right hand slides to rest above the sheathed Falchion resting beside her hip. Its existence serves as a reminder of her own purpose or identity, which now comes into conflict with the remaining future. "A majority of my life was spent in service to the people as their leader. Every day I fought until it began to be all I know. Even here this persists. I never once thought of what do after everything had been settled." Lucina plucks blades of grass one by one creating a bunch in her palm. She raises it high into the sky stretching the arm upwards. Some fall atop her robes while others lodge in the long blue hair. "It feels as if I have life in my hands, yet no nothing of what to do with it. Have you ever felt like this before?"Ā
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"I got a question..do you always see the past when you close your eyes..?" He asked looking her over. All the talk about the past and fighting for a better future was even more depressing than saving it from certain doom. It was true that he had to face Sephiroth once and it had to be done or else the world would have died to the Meteor. "If you keep thinking about the past..it will only come back to haunt you in your dreams. Until you lose your will." He lowered his head. "Then..you lose your friends because you push them away. Then..questions starts popping into your head. Questions like..do i have a reason? What's my future? Why am i here?" He closed his eyes. "I felt such despair so many times..where i just wanted to be killed off and left for dead..but once i was confronted by my friends. I woke up.." He reopened his eyes, staring down at her. "If you're fighting for a better future. Isn't that a good enough reason to fight?" He wasn't good trying to cheer anyone up but even he could notice Lucina was thinking too much.
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"Yes. In truth it happens more than I would like." Hearing his description resonates with her to an uncanny degree. From the sheer surprise of it Lucina suddenly props herself upright while look down at the ground. Eyes seem wide like saucers. They did not display sorrow, but a childish gleam as if seeing something for the first time. "Those words...! I have come to ask them of myself as of late." She leans in closer to Cloud. "Have you somehow found a way to read minds?" Giving him space she backs away to reflect on his word. A single hum can be heard as Lucina ponders over this newly found wisdom. Too often the princess, who speaks of a better future, often is shackled by her past. Regret, doubt, despair all of this is a plague to a scarred heart and mind. Rather than break free she often gives into the pitiful pit unable to truly forgive herself. However, with everything successfully saved she did need to stop wallowing in it. Suddenly without warning Lucina jabs herself in the cheek in a blink of an eye. Tingling sensations passes through her cheek then body awakening everything. The area quickly becomes a rosy color from the impact. Lucina looks unbothered by her own action. Instead she strangely looks enlightened.
"Yes you are correct. I mustn't live in the past and seize the future I created for myself too." In saying this she rests a palm beneath her chin. "Now the question is what shall I partake in? I suppose a mercenary may do, but work may be scarce now that the world is at peace." Cloud's words begin to echo in the back of her mind. Snapping her fingers a potential idea hits her. "You said Tifa owns a bar correct? Perhaps a bar is where I must begin. I do recall hearing stories within the palace of about how my mother used to service clients. I have also heard she was very popular with them! Thus it must be in my blood to do so as well. I could then gather funds as well. What do you think? Do I fit the image well enough for such an establishment?"
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He scratched his head some but studied Lucina up and down wondering if she would be up to par. Then again she told her so many stories about her past and the trials she went through he gave her a reassuring look. "Of course. You have gone through so much and done so much for everyone. Why wouldn't that fit your image as well? Doing what you think is right, becoming a mercenary is what i decided to be once the world was saved. I didn't aim for Soldier any longer since it proved they just wanted the entire world to suffer for money. I didn't want to be a part of that. So that is why i changed my goals. It can be little at first, but as soon as you show your potentional and people see you for you. They will admire that mercenary no matter what the goal was." He came to be flustered at the thought of Lucina working at a bar. It was something a drunk person would think about but somehow seeing Lucina in a vulgar yet cute outfit of a maid was going through his mind. The horrible memories of crossdressing came into his mind and he quickly blocked that out of his head. "You should at least check what it would be like..before you aim for it." Worrying that Lucina in the future would be going right for such jobs could prove dangerous if she was talking with the wrong people, but for some reason he believed she knew already.
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"Your words ring true. I should not act carelessly. Although the thought is intriguing. I have never been to one before although the name did pass around. Frederick, our guardian, must have made sure to have me avoid said places." Throwing herself back onto the ground she gazes up towards the skies still contemplative. Starting anew proves frightening. Thinking on it further this equivalent to being born once more. Having never gave this a single thought, blinded by one mission and vengeance, unintentionally robs herself of exploring other opportunities. Not that a hellish world on the brink of destruction can offer much in the ways of experimenting with skills not associated with a weapon and the head of an enemy. "With my skills and knowledge I may as well follow the path of a mercenary, but I do not want to stay on the path of fighting forever." Rolling over to her side she peers up at Cloud. Cheeks squish up form a brief pout in this seemingly futile potential job session. Plucking at the blades of grass her thoughts begin to bubble once more. Rather than pick randomly on her own a curious thought comes to mind.Ā "Cloud," Lucina returns to being sprawled out on her back, "what do you think might suit me? Judging by your answer I feel you may have better insight than myself." In awaiting an answer a few more ideas did pop up. All are notably related to fashion. Easily this earns an early dismissal knowing the many comments of her peculiar taste describing it as something bizarre. An audible sigh can be heard recollecting all of the mishaps involving clothing or accessories. "There must be something..."
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"I cannot say for sure on what would you suit you the best.." He admitted looking away. He felt like he was going to explode from being so flustered. The thoughts and endless ideas of what she could do was not going to work for her. It was her own choice. "Asking me about these things on what you should do, is obvious. Isn't it? You choose yourself..just like i made my decision. Just be a mercenary and do what you feel is right." It's not like he didn't try any other jobs. All of those things his friends showed him to do was embarrassing and didn't suit his style at all. "I feel i can tell you..but promise me first that you will not say anything to anyone about this. Since..you clearly already know alot about it.." He looked both ways avoiding people as much as possible since he didn't want anyone to hear it. It was enough embarrassing as it is. "I have done..everything. Including, crossdressing. I needed to save my friend but..they never let me go for that one. Just..don't do anything that would give you something to regret a long time into the future.."
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A promise sounds too intriguing to not capture Lucina's interest immediately. Believing him to be serious in sharing this information she sits upright on her knees directly gazing into his eyes. "You have my word I will not speak a single breath of it to another." Brows furrow at the bizarre reveal. Dressing as the opposite sex is not something she ever thought to share in common with another. Unable to come up with any words immediately Lucina can only stare at him blankly. "I see." She begs herself to think of something aside from imagining Cloud dressed as a fine lady. If he knew he may be appalled, but the mind cannot easily be stopped when fueled by curiosity. "You did that to save your friends correct? It is admirable if nothing else. Perhaps this is a suggestion for me to embrace manhood?" Lucina makes an attempt to joke around. However, her tone is so serious one may mistake it for a literal thought than one plainly said for humor's sake. Realizing this the princess is quick to defend herself. "Um. I jest."
Muffled laughter can be heard from the princess who shields her mouth with one hand. "Heh heh." Soon the seams holding each chuckle burst. Her hands slip away allowing the hearty laughter to pour out. "Hehehe. Heh do pardon my laughter." Due to so much amusement there is a hint of struggle to speak properly. "You see I cannot help, heh, finding our conversation to be amusing. Here we are so seriously contemplating things, yet now we talk of our own embarrassing moment. I feel," Lucina taps at the bottom of her chin,"the foreign word you used. Ah right! I suppose I feel a bit like an airhead." Tension leaves the atmosphere in favor of a lighthearted one. Concern is now fleeting in favor of indulging in this playful situation. A couple of minutes pass before no more giggles come to pass. Breathing in and out composure returns. "My sides are a bit sore after that fit. I wonder what came over me. However, I do feel I know what I must do now. Cloud I want to focus on the present and follow what my heart wants. Starting with one thing I would hope you might indulge me with. It is not something I can do on my own without potentially risking my life."
Lucina pauses before uttering the baffling sentence in a completely serious tone. "Do you know how to swim?"
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His expression slightly changed since he was relieved that she would not say anything about it, he never lived it down and people were always talking about it. Those who did witness it at least. "I.." He paused when she started laughing. He was sure she didn't laugh at him, but it couldn't help feel any less embarrassing. It was exactly that he feared. Being laughed at and remembering the embarrassing moment of having no choice but to crossdress. He didn't really laugh. More like looking gloomier than before. Maybe he was after all a sick kind of a guy who did that for the sake of saving Tifa. "It was nothing major but..i did it because they would not let me into the mansion. So i had to do it to find her..and get information at the same time." Now completely silent he seemed to understand. Looking back on it, it should be funny. Hilarious even. But he could not help being completely flustered and embarrassed at it, he felt like he was a kicked puppy when it came to it. The sudden question made him snap out of it though. "Swim? Yes, I learned in Soldier..why do you ask?" He questioned her.
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Cloud's change in demeanor is quickly noted by the princess. In his reply she wonders if he may have thought her laughter had been geared towards him. Not one to let the potential guilt consume her she defies the desire to remain quiet. Lucina rises to her feet covered in grass and specks of dirt. Gazing down at Cloud reveals an apologetic pair of eyes. "Before I elaborate know that I did not mean any harm with my laughter. IĀ merely thought to my own decisions when it came to dressing as a man and viewed it in a humorous light. My deepest apologies." To earnestly show herself committing to regret Lucina does bow slightly. In this instance a freezing sensation fills the air as awkwardness sneaks in. However, this does not last very long because the princess endeavors to achieve more lighthearted times with this new future. "Now that I have spoken my concerns please hear out my first small dream."
Picturing the sparkling large pools of water in mind she cannot help speaking with excitement. "You see I have something I must confess. I... cannot swim." Suddenly her cheeks turn pink recollecting the incident with the ships during the execution of Robin's plan. "This was reinforced long ago when I nearly drowned at my age after jumping off a ship according to a plan. Gods, it was so embarrassing. Thankfully father aided me and kept silent about it. Nevertheless, I believe its importance as a skill is immeasurable. I hoped if you knew how that you might act as my mentor and teach me." Lucina speaks earnestly about this desire of hers. Not everything, however, had been revealed. Below the surface is something that willingly is not said to save from turning more pink in the face than her mother's hair. Truthfully the princess yearned most of all to have fun with Cloud and perhaps cheer the both of them up for they often abandon themselves to gloominess.
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Somehow he understood it was not aimed towards him but it didn't change the fact that he was embarrassed about it. "I understand..it's just feels the same way anyway.." He gave her a look but it was reassuring. "I'll get over it..i have always had this in the back of my mind..and everytime i try to forget..i get reminded or being told that i did that once.." He scratched his head looking a little away from being embarrassed. However, the talk of crossdressing was substituted with swimming. So it was at least something he could think about. The sound of not being able to swim sounds frightening so he would help her in any way possible. "Of course..just keep in mind that the basics are going to be taught first before everything else. Since swimming from long distances craves that you don't use as much strength at once. Swimming is hard, and the longer the distances the stronger your body is going to be and..also get used to it." He remembered the times where he was forced to overwork himself to swim long distances in order to survive in the field of battle. "Anything can happen.." He was reassuring her about it. "You're blue from top to toe. It's in you to be able to swim. Blue is true beauty.." He noticed what he said and turned away. "Uh..just meet up when you feel like swimming and i'll teach you."
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"Naturally. Complex instruction can only come after the basics have been mastered." Lucina nods at his every word. Her heart burns with enthusiasm at the thought of gaining a new skill. With it traveling around to explore new areas will become possible. She, despite being raised on the battlefield, did not think of combative purposes. Instead she yearns the thrill of discovery it should bring. Echoing in her ears already the swishing of waves, saltiness in the air, and sparkling water reflecting her image. Cloud's comment about her attire is intriguing. Failing to see the humor, Lucina tugs gently at a strand of blue hair. True the seas or rivers normally appear blue so perhaps there can be a correlation, yet it is still difficult to believe at face value. "Huh? Is it possible I hold potential because of my appearance?" His compliment catches the princess off guard. Flowing towards her face is a rush of embarrassment. Before cheeks can turn a rosy red color she stomps on the feeling to retain composure. "I see." Lucina mutters while turning her back to him. Alas in her efforts a faint blush does manage to pull through. Closing her eyes it is swiftly buried away to continue their conversation. "Then how about now? You did receive an invitation to join fellow fighters by the ocean correct? I am certain they will welcome our company."
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"Of course..let's go and swim together. I'll show you first the most easiest basics just to keep you afloat in case you are in trouble. It's rather simple." He offered a hand looking towards the creatures that offered them to go to the beach. Both Pikachu and Kirby seemed to be very happy. "I think alot of smashers love beach days." He thought about it and for the longest of times he really didn't have one with these people. "I think we need to change our attire to swimming attire first of..and i believe they will wait for us." Looking at his own clothes he felt like it wasn't going to be alot of fun showing that amount of skin again including the scars. There was a reason why he hid them. He just hoped he wouldn't get any questions about them. He was still blushing so he remained looking slightly away from her.Ā "I'll teach you everything i have learned during swimming lessons myself. I am not perfect..but it's going to make you stay afloat..so..there is that.."
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Acknowledging him as a teacher she nods firmly at his word. Seeing his hand offered she did elegantly accept his invitation. Their intertwined palms remain together only in the instance to assist him to his feet. With Cloud on his own two legs Lucina withdrew her hand from his own. Prolonging contact of that nature fans the flames of a foreign sensation to the princess. It is a feeling that sends a rushing warmth to the heart and cheeks that is difficult to bear. She rather not appear as a blushing fool who cannot utter a single word completely without pauses or excessive stuttering. Holding in her composure at these embarrassing images of herself behaving outlandishly, Lucina follows after Cloud towards their location of the hour.
She reminisces the first time ever visiting what many call a beach. Sunshine beamed down nearly everywhere. Its light sparkled like stars against the ocean's surface. Then beneath her feet was pure white sand unlike those found in deserts. The sight was absolutely stunning; its view must have been ripped right out of a novel. Yet everything had gone to waste because battle always haunted the princess. Undead creatures struck leaving this place to become another battlefield instead of leisure. Thankfully the present proves different. Here there are no such things as Risen hidden within the corners readying themselves to plague peaceful days. No interference will be found today. A dream so close to her grasp shall not turn into bloodshed or swinging of blades. Instead there will be peace and herself a normal young woman. Determination to enjoy herself in learning a new skill blazes into a fearsome flame, who only flickers from the remnants of doubt and unwillingness to be at ease. Eagerness is met with seriousness from within that acts as a killjoy in preventing Lucina form giving all her heart into swimming without much care.
Arriving the sight is as pictured. Skies are a clear blue, vast ocean sparkling, and the cutest image of the creatures already engaging in fun by splashing one another. Had Cloud not spoken Lucina would have been mesmerized by the sight until afternoon. "Er, I do believe we may be a tad overdressed for this. I will excuse myself so I may procure what is called a swimsuit. Pardon me." Excusing herself to seek out the proper attire she moves quickly only to heel stop, causing sand to fly, when Cloud speaks up once more. "I trust that I will learn much from you. To know something is better than nothing." Nearly fifteen minutes pass without word from the princess. Unbeknownst to Cloud, Lucina had run into the other ladies and foolishly shared her endeavor to find proper swimming attire. Different opinions ensued for everyone has their own taste. So enthralled in their own ideal cloth each failed to take notice of Lucina walking away with one of her own liking.Ā
"Cloud I have returned with the proper attire. I had run into unexpected company along the way, but I feel my attire will suffice." Lucina's taste in clothing has always been unique from other ladies. Her noble disposition belies the downright bizarre or risque styles that garner her interest. There is no greater display of this fact than what she presently wears. She sports a bright red bikini with ribbons adorning the corners, which are a tad too big. It leaves little to the imagination, yet somehow seems modest thanks to Lucina's behavior. The tiara had gone and her loose, unruly hair had been tamed through being tied up into a ponytail. No shred of shame shows on the princess' face. On the contrary she gazes at Cloud starry eyed and eager to learn.
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He was already ready by the beach waiting for Lucina's return since he had kept the promise of teaching her how to swim, however the only thing he really wanted to wear was his own clothing despite what people said. But he changed into a swimsuit after a while feeling rather exposed with so much skin showing. He didn't like it and it was probably for one reason only. Ever since he had been sick with Geostigma or was penetrated with Masamune through his chest, he had always hidden his skin. He felt somewhat uneasy showing battle scars and letting people see them since they were not really too memorable. However, he did notice they were respecting his boundaries and let him go for it. Everyone had their own kind of battle scar so it was only natural to let it go. "I could never get used to this.." He said mostly to himself since his body was already heating up from the sun. The clothes at least blocked some of the bright sunlight, but he was still sweating. After a while he glanced up to see Lucina finally coming outside, it was a sight to behold. His eyes widened and if he didn't notice, became flustered by the look. How was he supposed to react? Never had he really seen such beautiful actions taken from Lucina herself. "T-that's..great. I'll show you how to swim..but first we're going to get into the water first. At stomach's length is fine." He wanted it to be a little easy for Lucina at first. If something went wrong she could just stand up again. Trying to ignore the fact that he was blushing like crazy he tried his best to explain what she was going to do. "Well..the first stage of swimming is a little bit..embarrassing to say the least..but if you learn it..you won't drown so easily.." He looked at her wondering if she was listening to what he was talking about.
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Admittedly the unsightly scarring is immediately noticed by Lucina. She is reminded of how many other soldiers also bear a marking on their body, each an unforgettable memory or in the case of some a humorous tale. Not wishing to pry, for fear of digging up buried memories, the princess remains silent. Today is far too pleasant to sully with nosy inquiries. Every bit of her mind is forced to focus on the ocean or action of swimming to back away any single shred of pessimism. "Is it? It pleases me to know my clothes are suitable for the task." Jumping on the new subject she remembers this particular swimsuit to be most efficient for their task. There is a mental leap in her logic by believing less makes swimming smoother because less cloth will weigh the swimmer down. How laughable. Lucina wholeheartedly believes this as fact. "Out of all the choices that had been offered this felt most efficient. I am certain I will learn plenty today." Her words hold strong conviction.Ā
Cloud's complexion, being comparable to a ripe apple, did earn a raised brow by the princess. Obliviousness from whence it came and its reason she gazes at the sun. Shielding her eyes with a hand thoughts of the heat come to mind. Although warm, some people did not fare well when exposed. She recalls how Laurent, and old friend, often burned up rather quickly. Unlike traveling through open fields or deserts the pair did have water moments away. It is hoped he may cool to prevent himself from become a walking lobster from head to toe. "Understood. We will not make much progress staying on land." Taking the lead she bravely walks towards the sea without hesitance. When the cool water tickles at the sole of her foot hairs stand on her arms from the shock. Instinctively the body stiffens to stone. A deep breath is needed to bear the immediate temperature shift. Gradually more distance is taken with more shivering until a majority of her lower half had been submerged. "Cold." She mutters. Fingers curl up into the palm turning into tightened fist. "I have completed the first step. What awaits me now Cloud?"Ā
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He followed shortly after since he was going to show her exactly what. "For beginners..you should try to dog paddle. If you have seen dogs swimming then it is exactly what it is..multiple people have used this method for survival when it comes to swimming." He crossed his arms enjoying the cold but he had to keep moving or his body would be frozen in the water. Turning slightly he was going to show her how. "Depending on person to person..this should be the easiest way but also the slowest. When it compares to length you would be an easy target. So..that is one method. The second method is swimming like a frog. It's far more efficient and should be used more often since it gains far more length when you swim. Rather than explaining..i'll show you then help you by supporting your stomach so you won't fall directly underwater." He didn't really like to show off, and it has been a long time since he ever did but he started with the more efficient method since he believed that was what Lucina wanted to learn in the first place. There was other methods he was going to explain but it would be used for later. Right now he was consentrated and swimming to show Lucina. After finishing his steps he swam back to Lucina. "That should do it..how about you try next. Shouldn't be too hard..but it depends on who you are." He approached her.
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Cloud's explanation may have suited another just fine given how dogs are a frequent companion throughout different realms. Even the princess knew what the animal is. What he did not foresee is Lucina's upbringing lacking exposure to large bodies of water. She forms the image of a canine and water in her head, but cannot understand what it means to dog paddle. Digging deeper into the archive of dusty old memories comes forth images of ships sailing the seas. Pictures depict men using oars to navigate through calm or rambunctious waves. The term paddle had been used in the text as a verb without any accompanying image. Lucina can only assume the motion is related to the oar, which proves inefficient through mock movements above the sea. Brows knit tightly together becoming troubled at a lack of comprehension of this material. "Um..." Before she can deliver a question he moves onto another perplexing example.
"What? Swimming like a frog?" Yet another creature the princess never saw in the midst of a swim. All that comes to mind is Owain, her cousin, often catching them in the garden or after a storm when they were most abundant. She can only remain silent to observe him in his entirety. The movements of both arms and legs are unusual. There is some doubt in whether or not they can be replicated by merely watching. Performing and imitation are separate things entirely. Soon enough the spotlight, beaming with expectation, falls upon her person. Portraying it as a simple process only adds more pressure. Lucina's heart races unable to shake the idea of possible failure. In this fear of being a disappointment the first attempt is made only for her form to sink faster than a rock from poor form. Holding her breath, rather than regulate it, her lungs begin to buck for air leading the princess to rise up to her two feet. Another attempt soon follows with more success than the last, but produces the same result. Soaked and discouraged she looks at her own reflection in the water wondering what she is doing wrong. "This is more difficult than anticipated."
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He was rather embarrassed, since he of course wasn't that good at teaching someone. In fact, he just hoped she would understand. Then again, teaching someone who has never been able to swim was hard. Approaching her he took her hands moving them in the position shown. "You stretch your arms together..while in the water..and then separated them. You do the same with your legs..that way. You move forward.." He explained of how to swim like a frog. "Do you understand?" He asked. He wanted to teach her the most necessary type of swimming so she could learn it. "I am sorry, it is not that easy to explain..but i hope you understand by the explanation i am showing you. Don't worry..it's fine since you're in shallow water. Just keep in mind, when you're in danger, such as being too far out you're going to sink." He covered his head a little feeling the mixed warmth and cold by the water was slowly giving him a headache, but he kept on pressing himself and trying to teach Lucina of what to do. "Try what i told you for now and in shallow water. If you feel you're up to challenge the deeper water out there when you're ready..you can do so." He looked around wondering if there was anyone up for lifesaving. It only seemed like Pikachu, Pichu, Yoshi and Kirby were just playing out in the water having a lot of fun. It was honestly a really cute sight.
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Ness has always wanted to interact with the Cloud. Mainly because of the other's appearance. The spikey blonde hair, the lone armored shoulder, and most importantly the big weapon being lugged around. Not knowing the swordsman personally proposed a roadblock but he decided to wing it. "Hey man, your sword is super big and cool... can I hold it?" He casually asked. The heaviest thing he's held is a bat, which is nowhere near the same weight as the Buster Sword.
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He was in his own thoughts when he heard the voice of someone snapping him immediately out of it and towards the one who spoke to him. "What?" He looked at Ness, then wondered how he was going to be able to wield that heavy thing. He himself needed time enough to be able to hold it. His expression said it all, confusion and a look of worry that he would get squished if he allowed that. "I don't..think that's such a good idea.." He didn't want to take the blame if he actually did get hurt.Ā
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Well, that's not what he wanted to hear. A look of disappointment spread across his features. "You swing your sword around like it's nothing. Come on, pleeease!" Clearly there was an absence of understanding on his end. He didn't know the amount of dedication and time it took to wield a sword seamlessly. For him, training wasn't all that necessary, not when you have arsenal of toys and skills to use at your disposal. His gifted talents left him lacking in the technique department.
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"No. You could get hurt just trying to hold it..it's heavier than it looks." He was still worrying that encouraging him to hold it would most likely break his bones. He was only a kid after all. Looking around for anyone to help him out, he figured he had to deal with this himself. "Swords like mine aren't toys.. they are heavy, dangerous weapons that can inflict pain. As long as you swing it around and hit someone with it..it will always cause injuries." He stepped back looking for any other source to talk about.
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Breaking a bone or pulling a muscle was more likely the more Ness thought about it. He huffed, gradually coming to terms with that he might never hold the cool sword. If only he were older... maybe he'd be just as strong! Or at least that's what he wants to believe. The boy can dream. "You win this time Cloud." That being said, he looked confused. Seeing the swordsman back away from him only made him curious about something else. "What's up with you sword guys anyways? You're always so serious."
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"It's complicated to explain..and i would rather spare you years of suffering from telling you that.." He looked distant then returned his eyes towards him. "I don't know what you went through..and you don't know much about what i went through..and to keep my information from being explained..so you wouldn't understand what i went through. Would make me..more relieved." Turning around he wondered if he even said that right. "Anyway if you wanted to hold a sword..you should ask Ike or Marth..they might be more accessable to you.."
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He fell silent. The honest answer caught him off guard. It would've been easier to walk away and note him off as a pushy child. Not only that but to set boundaries and acknowledge his unknown experiences? Cloud... really didn't have to go that far. The least he could do is respect the swordsman's words not pressure him any further. Ness could live with being unsatisfied. "Right... I'm uh... sorry for bothering you." He turned around himself, glancing over his shoulder hoping for some form of forgiveness to be spoken.
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He was quiet for the most part but responded almost right away. "...i am sorry..i don't know how to talk to people.." He walked away to train. He needed some time by himself. He knew all the time when he opened his mouth, he would end up hurting someone in some way or another which was why he left so things would not escalate. Wandering a little further until he was in the training room, he locked it. He just wanted to be alone and train alone. It might not have been the right decision but avoiding contact was probably the worst thing he could have done.
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Ness didn't follow, he only watched as the other walked away. He felt more dumbfounded then ever. There wasn't anything he could refute or say otherwise. It's just like Cloud said, he didn't know much about him... However he was verbally given some sort of insight. ...Perhaps he'd have the gull to speak to the swordsman again someday, nobody deserves to be alone if they're having problems. For today the boy would willingly retreat and give Cloud the alone time he wanted.
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Once he managed to calm himself down, he reopened the training area allowing people in. He sat down just trying to consentrate on something else and not letting it get to him. It was such a foolish thought. Ness was only curious obviously, yet he acted so out of place. He didn't know what to say to him in the given time but he knew it was unreasonable. The thought of apologizing came to him, but he remained where he was a little bit longer.Ā
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Around the same time Ness found himself heading for the cafeteria for a snack. He passed by the training area, giving a glance to whoever was in there. Once he realized it was Cloud he backtracked and peaked inside. "Um... hey." The boy said, his fingers anxiously toying with the door's frame. Did Cloud want to see him again so soon? He hoped so since there were things that he wanted to say too.
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He looked at Ness but he didn't know if he should respond back in fear that he would just push them away. "I am sorry..sometimes i don't know what happens to me when I don't know what to say. People expect me to be some kind of leader. I have always made some bad decisions and good decisions. Most people i have known..tend to stick with the good decisions i have made for the sake of me not feeling bad..but i always feel bad for the things i have done in the past..hurting people, or giving false hopes.." He sighed. "Talking about it never helped me either.."
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His fingers gradually rested as Cloud spoke. He didn't look upset, instead he looked sympathetic. It took him hardly any time at all to come up with a reply as if he were anticipating words like that. "Honestly I didn't expect anything from you-" Ness stepped inside the training area. "-and if you really think about it, you're the one expecting things." He sat next to Cloud. Saying that talking never helps can't be true, at least in his eyes. "It's gonna take more then some tough words to steer me away from you."
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"All i have ever done is push people away..i don't really get how any of you put yourselves up with me." He shook his head some. "Maybe i am just too hard on myself or too hard on others. But my intentions are never to be like that.." He looked down some. "I expect..people to dislike me in some way..." He was pretty much quiet since he didn't know what else to say. Maybe people were avoiding him and he didn't notice it. Perhaps he was too serious sometimes, but he didn't mean it.
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"People here have developed their own groups so I can't blame you if you think people dislike you..." All of the younger kids in smash were on good terms with each other, so Ness never had a hard time talking to others. The Fire Emblem characters had each other and the villains did their own thing. But he could understand that for someone like Cloud it was a different story. "Personally, I think you're a little rough around the edges. That's not to say you can't change that." Ness tried to put a positive spin on things.
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"I really don't mean anything bad by it.." Looking a little bit thoughtful he figured he couldn't really hide from people to make a point. That would be rude in itself. "If i keep avoiding people and avoiding to talk to them..i would just be digging my own grave." He picked himself up slightly. "I would rather be a memorable fighter just like everyone else. I just need time to know everyone..that's all." He felt a little bit conflicted, but he was going to try this. Becoming friends with them was the very first step. He just hoped they would not turn their back on him. Fearing rejection was pretty much everything. "How..could you so easily talk to people..?"
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"How do I do it? Well... people like to talk about themselves." Everybody is a little bit egotistical whether they like to admit it or not. And what better topic then the person you're talking to? The concept seemed simple enough. "So if you think an aspect about someone is interesting, go for it y'know? It gets easier to chime in the more you talk to someone." That's what Ness did after all. Cloud and his big ol' Buster Sword was the catalyst for this interaction.
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"Did i..talk too much about myself..?" He seemed discouraged. "...I am sorry." He rested his head some. "I didn't notice i was talking so much about myself..i shouldn't be pressuring others to understand me. Since..understanding me is rather complicated. It's best if you didn't try." He apologized looking like he had given up on himself. "You wanted to try to wield my Buster Sword right..?" He held it out for him. "Here..try. It would knock you back though..because it is heavy."
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"No need to apologize, I don't mind listening." Ness looked down at the ridiculously sized sword being offered to him. He happily accepted and went for the handle with both hands, that part was light enough. But when he tried to actually lift the Buster Sword it wouldn't budge. A disappointing but expected result. At times like these he wish he had telekinesis to make things float. "Would talking about myself make things equal?" A chuckle escaped him, the boy couldn't believe how puny he was in comparison to the weapon.
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