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“I’m scared…” Irida admits at a whisper, cold winds buffeting her frame with cruel ferocity. “I-I took up the role of Clan Leader so young, I know I don’t know what I’m doing. I told Adaman that being leader is about embracing Hisui’s vastness without fear, but sometimes I think fear is all I feel.”
A quiet gulp echoes in her ear as a sturdy embrace wraps around her torso, rough indigo fabric pressing into her skin. She sucks in a breath ripe with the scent of Pecha Berries and morning rain, allowing the comfort imbued in the scent to waft over her. She casts a glance over her shoulder, eyes growing wide at the worry encompassing the silver irises meeting her own. She feels the caress tighten, cold fingertips pressing into her stomach as her heartbeat begins to slow, no longer hammering on her skull like a barrage of rocks.
“You’re so brave…” Dawn murmurs in her ear, shifting to rest her head under the Clan Leader’s chin, her tangled azure hair cascading over Irida’s shoulders. It makes her heart flutter, a soft blush beginning to rise to her cheeks.
A moment passes, and another, yet Dawn doesn’t let go; remaining in Irida’s space as long as she’ll allow. The Clan leader smiles, leaning into the contact, enjoying the warmth of the Warden’s skin on her own. The tickling of hair on her neck and the uniquely “Dawn” way the girl clutches her in a sturdy grip, making her smile as if it’s the easiest thing in the whole wide world.
“You know what you believe in, and you go for it, even if you’re scared of Hisui’s vastness and wherever it is time and space will lead you, you still do what you think is right. I admire you so much, my Lady.”
Irida blinks, revelling in the honesty in Dawn’s voice. Her voice is gentle, like the mountain breeze, yet undeniable like the chill of a blizzard. She purses her lips, she’ll never understand how something so wonderful, that should be able to span the vastness of the world, could only be noticed by a few.
She shudders, feeling the other girl curl into her further, planting a light kiss on her cheek, the warmth of her lips pulling away all too soon. “Irida, you’re easily one of the most impressive people I’ve ever met. You’re so full of fire and passion, it’s unforgettable, you’re unforgettable. Every moment I get to spend with you is a gift from Mighty Dialga themself, and I’m willing to bet Mighty Palkia too.”
The Warden pulls away, just far enough for Irida to see the lopsided grin gracing her features, spreading across her silky snow coloured skin and lighting up her metallic eyes. Irida sighs, the remainder of her fear sinking into the dirt. How could she possibly remain afraid when she’s seeing this? Sharing her space with something so beautiful? It just enough to chase her fear away.