Work Text:
“Well, how do I look?”
Seele currently stood in front of a large mirror, turning slowly in an attempt to get a better look at herself.
“You look great!”
“Very handsome.”
Luka and Natasha were quick to offer their complements.
“Thanks you two,” Seele replied, smiling anxiously. “You know I don’t normally worry that much about this stuff…”
“Today’s a big day, it’s perfectly natural to be nervous.” Natasha’s words were warm, and out of the corner of Seele’s eyes she could see her wipe away a few tears.
“You’ve got nothing to worry about,” Luka reassured. “Bronya will be thrilled, no doubt about it.”
Seele nodded. Instead of her usual Wildfire attire, she was wearing something decidedly more formal. A black two-piece suit that she had picked out from an Overworld store, with a purple undershirt and crimson tie. Her hair, normally wild if not a little ragged, was carefully tied back into a high ponytail with a bright red ribbon. For shoes, she had ordered a custom made pair of black loafers. Comfortable and stylish.
“It’s not my usual style.” She pulled at the hem of her undershirt a little. “But way better than one of those poofy dresses.”
“I think it’s very fitting,” Natasha offered. “Though I think you would look beautiful in a nice dress too.”
“Ehh.” She wasn’t so sure. “Maybe one day. Think I’ll stick with this for now.”
“Of course.” Natasha stepped forward. “I’m happy with whatever you're comfortable in.”
Seele turned around, only to be immediately drawn into a crushing hug.
“I am so proud of how far you’ve come, and I’m glad you’ve found someone you want to share your life with.”
“Nat…” Seele felt herself choking up.
Natasha released Seele from her embrace, but held onto her shoulders for a moment as she looked her up and down.
“You’re all grown up now,” Natasha continued, her voice quivering. “Sometimes I still remember that little girl that got into way too much trouble.”
“Naaat!” Seele groaned.
“Come now, you have to let me have this at least.” Natasha chuckled, wiping away some of her tears.
“I mean yeah…” Seele mumbled. It was always harder to stand up to Natasha. “But it’s not like I’m getting married today. I still have to propose.”
“I know, I know,” Natasha replied. “But you and I both know that Bronya is going to say yes.”
Liquid fire spread across her face as Natasha stated the obvious. Seele scowled and crossed her arms.
“Come on, Nat, you’re gonna make her explode.” Luka laughed.
“What’re you laughing at, Luka?” Seele turned on him, but he raised his hands (both the mechanical one and the still fleshy one) in front of his face.
“You, obviously,” he replied, grinning. “I’ve never seen you this embarrassed before.”
“Ugh.”
“Alright, that’s enough teasing,” Natasha chided. Then, she looked towards Seele seriously. “Do you have everything you need?”
Seele placed her hand over the pocket of her suit pants, feeling a now familiar bulk within.
“Ring, ticket, and ID,” she listed them off with practiced familiarity. “No way I’d forget them."
“Good. That’s good.” Natasha sighed in relief. “Alright, you’d best be off then.”
“Right?” Luka added from the peanut gallery. “Imagine the look on everyone’s face if you came in alone after everyone else.”
“I swear I’m gonna come back and kick your ass when I’m done.” She glowered towards Luka.
“Looking forward to seeing you try.”
“You’re such a meathead.”
“And?”
She rolled her eyes. Sure, he went and did great at a big important tournament, but she could beat him any day of the week.
“Alright, I’m going to get going then. Luka’s right, I don’t want everyone watching me.”
Natasha finally released her and made her way towards the door of the clinic. The handle turned with fresh efficiency- supplies from the Overworld and beyond had started to trickle down into the Underworld. It was nice to have new, reliable things. Seele followed Natasha, and Luka followed them both. Pausing at the door, she took a deep breath and stepped over the threshold. Stepping down the stairs, she stopped and turned around to wave goodbye.
“Nat… thanks for everything. I know I was a pain growing up, but I appreciate you taking care of me.”
She noticed them both waving, but without waiting for a response, she took off towards the lift to the Overworld. The streets were fairly empty, though a few people waved to her as she passed. Tonight of all nights she didn’t have time to stop and chat with people- there was only one person on her mind.
It didn’t take long for her to arrive at the lift. A few Silvermane Guards were manning the entrance. Normally they would perform an ID check, and if you didn’t have one they would direct you to obtain one. Just another change that had come to Belobog alongside the IPC. They kind of ticked her off, but ever since Bronya had signed a treaty with the Xianzhou, they had been able to negotiate on more equal footing. At least, that was her understanding of it. Bronya usually took care of all the difficult, political details.
There was a rough groan as they began moving upwards. Other than the guards, she was alone. Not too many people were making the trip this late at night to the Overworld. The way back would probably be more packed. People commuting home after a long day. While they ascended, she listened in to the guards’ conversation.
“Must be nice to be on duty at Qlippoth Fort tonight.”
“Nah, that’d be boring. Who wants to hang around those noble stiffs for hours.”
“Yeah, sure, but I heard the food is going to be incredible. Stuff from all sorts of far-off planets.”
“Like that Xianzhou place?”
“Yeah, exactly.”
“I’ve only had the chance to try some of it, it’s still pretty expensive, but I have to admit it’s pretty good.”
“And I heard there were going to be some big names there. The Supreme Guardian of course.”
“Well, duh.”
“But also some people from the IPC. That Topaz woman, but apparently someone called Lady Bonajade too.”
“Those IPC guys are kinda scary.”
“Right?”
Their conversation continued like that for a while but she mostly tuned them out. It wasn’t just the IPC executives. The Astral Express and a few people from the Xianzhou were also going to be in attendance. And some weirdo Stelle had invited- Argenti or something like that.
Eventually they reached the top and the moment the doors open, Seele set off. It was a beautiful, clear night. Not a cloud in sight. The stars were shining brightly overhead, and the air was cool and crisp. That was something she would never get tired of.
Unlike Boulder Town, the streets of the Administrative District were much busier. People were moving in small crowds, mostly in the direction of Qlipoth Fort. Many of them were dressed in familiar Belobogian styles, though there were those dressed in distinct, exotic (in her eyes) styles of formalwear that wouldn’t provide much warmth.
“Luckily we have all these heaters…” she muttered, throwing a glance towards one of the geomarrow heaters installed on the side of the road. Hopefully in a few generations they wouldn’t be needed anymore.
Continuing along, she followed the sidewalk towards the Everwinter Monument. Since she was coming alone, she’d just slip in behind another group. Though she had to criss-cross the road a few times to avoid some of the crowds, she quickly arrived at her destination. In addition to the Silvermane Guards, there were a few dozen IPC goons patrolling the plaza. People were already ascending the long stairs towards Qlipoth Fort, in small groups of three to five.
Of these, the pair of women surrounded by a small contingent of IPC soldiers, were just beginning their ascent. The first was a white-haired woman dressed in a tight red dress. The second was an intimidating woman with wavy, pinking hair dressed in an extravagant purple sequin dress. People were staring, covering their mouths and speaking in hushed whispers. Topaz and Lady Bonajade no doubt.
“Now who am I going to tail?” she frowned. Maybe it would be easy enough to use her abilities to sneak in. Most of the time that would be her exact answer. But tonight was important, very important, and she didn’t want to do anything that would screw things up for Bronya. “Maybe I could find Stelle and the others? They’d probably let me join.”
“Excuse me, miss.” Came a dulcet voice from behind her. “Are you looking for a group to join? You can come with us, if you like?”
She turned around, finding herself face-to-face with a tall man with nearly equally as long white hair. His eyes were a glimmering gold, and he carried a soft smile on his face. He was wearing a darker tunic, with images of some strange animal embroidered in silver across it. He wore dark brown pants, with similar silver embellishments. Beside him was a woman of fairly average height with dark, somewhat tealish hair, with animalistic ears and a tail. She was dressed elegantly in a green dress with golden cloud patterns along the length. There were slits on the lower parts of the edge to give her legs some movement.
Seele studied them for a moment, before realizing that these two people were familiar.
“Wait a second, didn’t you two come to sign the treaty after the, what was it, the Wardance?” She asked.
“That’s right,” the man replied. “Lady Bronya invited us to the event and as newfound allies, we figured it would only be right to attend.”
“Well I’m glad you guys are here.” Seele grinned. “That’ll make Bronya happy.”
The man raised an eyebrow and looked at the woman beside him. She returned a knowing smile, not that Seele noticed.
“Where are my manners?” The man bowed slightly. “Jing Yuan, at your service.”
Beside him, the woman bowed. “Yukong, of the Sky-Faring Commission.”
“Oh! Right, sorry.” Seele attempted to imitate their bow, though it was more awkward then anything else. “The name’s Seele. Good to meetcha.”
“The pleasure is ours,” Yukong replied.
“So, would you care to take us up on our offer?” Jing Yuan asked, turning his gaze towards Qlipoth Fort.
“That would be great, thanks,” she replied. It was good that the problem resolved itself so easily.
“Shall we be off, then?” Yukong motioned for them to depart. They began walking and Seele fell in between the two of them.
“So how are you liking Belobog?” she began. “Finding it interesting, hopefully.”
“It is an interesting world, indeed.” Jing Yuan replied. “Though I have had plenty of time to think about it, the tenacity of the people is most impressive.”
“Despite the hardships you’ve had to face, it feels so full of life,” Yukong added.
She smiled. “I’m glad you think so. Overworlders and Underworlders, we’re all pretty resilient.”
“That you are,” Jing Yuan agreed. “Your Supreme Guardian has been doing quite well, despite the circumstances.”
“Bronya?” Seele looked towards him. “Oh she’s been working incredibly hard. I just wish she’d listen and take more breaks. She’s under enough pressure as is.”
“I can only imagine,” he nodded in response, then placed a finger and thumb on his chin. “I believe that, with time, she’ll learn to manage herself more effectively.”
“She’s still young, and was thrust into responsibility sooner than she deserved. Experience comes with age.” Yukong said, her words laced with wisdom.
“I hope so, or I’ll have to knock some sense into her.”
Beside her, both Jing Yuan and Yukong laughed. Seele looked at them, scowling in confusion.
“What, did I say something weird?”
“It’s less that you said something strange…” Jing Yuan began, bemused. “Rather, you seem quite familiar with Lady Bronya.”
“The people of Belobog usually speak about the seat of Supreme Guardian with reverence, rather than your much more casual speech.” Yukong finished,
Seele’s cheeks turned a rosy shade of pink. “Oh, yeah. Sorry.”
“No need to be sorry, I take it you’re close to her?” Jing Yuan asked.
“That’s right. I’m her right-hand woman, so to speak,” she said quietly. Normally, she sounded brash and full of confidence. But tonight was different. Tonight, things were going to change.
“Just her right hand woman?” Jing Yuan pressed, already certain of the answer.
“Ugh.” Seele looked towards the ground. “Alright, we’ve been together for a while.”
“That much was obvious.” Jing Yuan chuckled.
“Jeez. Everyone’s teasing me tonight.” Seele groaned.
“Sorry, I simply couldn’t help myself,” he replied.
Beside them, Yukong was laughing quietly into her hand. “Oh to be young and in love again.”
Seele’s already pinkish blush deepened to a bright red.
“Hey!” She pouted slightly. She’d just met these two and they were already acting like they’d know her forever.
“She’s not wrong, is she?” Jing Yuan continued the relentless assault.
“No, she’s not,” Seele mumbled. “I mean, Bronya’s just incredible. She’s strong, kind, and caring. She’s been through so much, yet despite that, she’s never misplaced her heart. Her dream of making Belobog a better place. Of uniting Overworlders and Underworlders. I want to do everything in my power to help her make it a reality.”
For a moment, Jing Yuan and Yukong fell silent in the face of Seele’s sudden and impassioned speech. By this point, they were most of the way towards Qlipoth Fort. Eventually, Jing Yuan broke the silence.
“Forgive us, we never meant to tease you so. It seems that you care very deeply about her.”
“It’s alright.” Seele shrugged. “I can take a little teasing. I know I probably sounded like a dork.”
“Not at all,” Yukong began.” You truly and utterly believe in your partner, and I think that’s wonderful.”
“Indeed. Lady Bronya is truly lucky to have you.”
“Um, thanks I guess.” Seele continued to blush deeper and deeper. She was already being put through the ringer and they hadn’t even made it inside. “By the way, not that I’m not thankful, but how come you two offered to come with me? You seem like important people; my relationship with Bronya isn’t all that widely known, so that probably wasn’t the reason.”
Jing Yuan chuckled. “Actually, we were somewhat familiar with you already.”
“Huh?
“We weren’t entirely sure when we first saw you, but then you mentioned Stelle’s name,” Yukon said.
“Wait, you two know Stelle?” Seele asked incredulously.
“We do. In fact, she’s a good friend and an important ally of ours,” Jing Yuan replied. “After the Wardance, she told us all about her friends from Belobog.”
“Including Lady Bronya and yourself,” Yukong said.
“When we spoke to her earlier she was very specific with her instructions.” Jing Yuan closed his eyes, raising a finger. Somehow, he managed to take each step without issue. “‘If you see Seele, make sure to tease her about Bronya for me. I might be busy dealing with Argenti but I can’t miss the opportunity, yah know?’”
Despite the infuriating content of the message Seele had to admit that his Stelle impression was on point.
“I swear if I see her at the ball tonight I’m going to kick her ass.”
Jing Yuan and Yukong looked at each other, then began to laugh deeply.
“I’ll make sure to pass on the message when we see her next.”
“Thanks. But I’ll do it myself.” Seele grinned, though it was far more malicious than anything else.
At last they reached the top of the stairs and found themselves at the entrance to Qlipoth Fort. The grand doors were wide open, allowing a river of guests to flow into the building. Several Silvermane Guards, including Captain Gepard, were on duty checking IDs and tickets. The three of them approached Gepard’s line, and were soon being checked in.
“Ah, General Jing Yuan, Madam Yukong,” Gepard began. “I’m glad you could make it, Luka has spoken highly of both of you.”
“He’s an impressive young man, I’m looking forward to his future accomplishments,” Jing Yuan replied. “Though I heard that you’re an even more impressive warrior.”
Gepard laughed, stamping Jing Yuan’s and Yukong’s tickets. “I don’t know about that, I simply do my duty.” He then turned to Seele.
“Let me stamp your ticket, Seele.” He held out a hand. “And your ID. I know who you are but just in case.”
“It’s fine, I get it.” Seele passed the requested items and after a moment they were returned without issue.
“Welcome to Qlipoth Fort, please, enjoy your evening.” Gepard saluted and the three of them passed into the building.
It was immediately much warmer, and the halls were abuzz with conversation. They pressed through the crowds towards a large room that once served as a barracks but had been refitted to serve as a ballroom. It was on the northern side of the fort. They had even installed several beautiful stained glass windows and made it possible to head out onto the balcony. Several chandeliers from off-world had been installed, and a live band had been brought in by the Astral Express from a place called Penacony to perform.
Inside the room were dozens of mobile carts bearing platters of food, bottles of wine and other assorted drinks, as well as plates, cutlery, and glasses. While it was all very pretty, it seemed a little extravagant. But, Broyna had said that this sort of thing was good optics for dealing with people from across the universe, so she hadn’t protested. In addition to the arrangements, there were plenty of people familiar and unfamiliar.
On the far side of the room, near one of the food carts, was the Astral Express crew. But there were more people than she remembered. Stelle was dressed in a fancy grey suit that matched her hair. Dan Heng and Welt were also similarly suited. Himeko and March were dressed to impress, but there were two others. The first was a man with silver hair, dressed in a fairly stylish white suit. There were wings coming out of his head? The second was a tall woman with lavender hair. She wore a revealing purple dress. At the moment, March appeared to be angrily shoving a piece of cake into Stelle’s mouth. Seele shook her head.
Opposite of them were the IPC executives, however, they appeared to be trapped in conversation with a man wearing a literal suit of plate armour, his long flowing hair seemingly dancing in the non-existent wind. And somehow, there was a spotlight shining on him. Seele looked around, but couldn’t identify where it was coming from.
“Is everyone outside of Belobog so weird?” She asked, though it was mostly rhetorical.
“You would be surprised,” Jing Yuan said. “But if you’re referring to Stelle, and I assume her friend, Argenti…” He trailed off. “Well, those two are especially strange.”
Before she could respond, however, she finally spied the person she was looking for.
Bronya stood near the centre of the room, speaking with a few unfamiliar figures. One of them was a robot, dressed in rather regal looking attire. The second was an incredibly short man, his skin was taut and aged. Tufts of white hair poked out the top of his head, while a long, styled beard hung from his face. And, for whatever reason, a fluffball poked out the top of his head.
As for Bronya herself, she wore a long, elegant blue dress with white ruffles, and golden jewelry. The sleeves were puffy and fell down around her wrists, while on her hands she wore white gloves. It revealed the top of her shoulders, and clung to her figure in a way that Seele could only say was incredibly flattering. Silvermane badges and medals were also attached to her dress, as befitting her role of Supreme Guardian.
“It was nice meeting you two, but if you’ll excuse me.” Seele began walking away, waving towards Jing Yuan and Yukong
“It was a pleasure to meet you,” Jing Yuan replied.
“Take care,” Yukong added.
Practically skipping across the room, Seele arrived next to Bronya beaming.
“Good evening, Supreme Guardian, I hope you’re doing well,” Seele spoke with as courtesy as she could possibly muster, though it felt so incredibly wrong to hear words like that come out of her mouth.
“Ah, good evening Seele.” Broyna turned to her, a wide smile on her face. “Allow me to introduce you to Sir Screwllum of, well, planet Screwllum and…” She looked at Screwllum.” Number 76 of the Genius Society?”
“That is correct.” The robot named Screwllum politely replied.
“And this is Oti Alfalfa, head of Penacony’s Alfalfa Family.” She motioned towards the short man with the fluffball.
“A pleasure.”
“And to introduce you,” Broyna motioned towards Seele. “Gentlemen, this is Seele, my partner.”
Seele smiled brightly at that.
“It’s nice to meet you both, I hope I’m not interrupting.”
“Not at all,” Screwllum began. “We were just finishing our conversation. Lady Bronya had some interesting ideas concerning the robots on Belobog and was seeking my expertise.”
“And with all of the different groups taking part in Belobogs development, well, we couldn’t leave The Family out, now could we?”
“Sounds like some exciting things are in the works.” Seele forced a smile. She was certain that if they started explaining all of the little details they would go right over her head.
“Absolutely,” Screwllum agreed. “But we shall leave it at that for now.”
“Please, enjoy yourselves,” Bronya said.
The two men said their farewells, quickly moving to mingle with some of the other high-profile diplomats. Once they were out of earshot, Seele turned to Bronya and said:
“How’re you doing, princess? Everything okay so far?” Seele slid closer to Bronya and wrapped an arm around her waist.
“I’m doing okay.” Bronya sighed, her voice dripping with exhaustion. “It was a long day getting ready, and it’ll be a few more hours before I get any rest.’
“I’m sorry, I should have been here to help.”
“It’s okay, Seele.” Bronya shook her head. “You already do plenty for me. You being here to support me is already the best thing I could have asked for.” She turned, placing a kiss on Seele’s cheek.
“If you’re sure, just let me know though, okay?” Seele squeezed Broyna. “Don’t be stubborn and try to do it all yourself.”
“I know, I know.” Bronya pulled away, then looked Seele up and down. “You look great. Very dashing.” Bronya reached out and tugged on her tie. There was a bit of mischievous look on her face, but it quickly passed.
“Thanks.” She tried to accept the compliment, but blushed. “I know it’s different from my usual get up, but I was hoping you would like it.”
“Oh, I definitely do.”
“Good,” Seele mumbled. She ran her eyes over Bronya again, drinking in the view and committing to memory. “You look so incredibly beautiful tonight I thought my heart was gonna stop when I saw you.”
“Flatterer,” Broyna replied, her cheeks a bright shade of pink. “Thank you. I picked it out just for you.”
Seele chuckled. “Well, princess, I guess that makes us quite the pair then.”
“That it does.” Bronya pulled Seele closer via her tie and kissed her on the lips. Seele leaned into it, satisfied.
“Not worried about any rumours?”
“No, I think everything has calmed down enough. Not that I was ever trying to hide it, really.”
“I know. Don’t worry.” Seele took Bronya’s hand. “I was glad to hear you call me your partner.”
“It’s the truth after all,” Bronya replied. “I hope you’ll do the same.”
“Of course. I wouldn’t miss an opportunity to brag about being with the Princess of Belobog.” Seele grinned. There was a light tap as Bronya karate chopped her head.
“Despite how cool you think you are, you’re kind of a dork you know.”
“No I’m not,” she denied it immediately.
Bronya sighed and shook her head, a wry smile on her face.
“Of course, dear.”
“Have you eaten already? I know things have been going for a little while already.” Seele eyed the food carts, her stomach rumbled as if on cue.
“I have not.”
“Let’s go then.”
Hand in hand the pair crossed over to where the food carts were lined up along the walls. Several waiters and waitresses were busy helping serve food, or otherwise bussing empty plates. They arrived at a cart covered in an array of exotic seafood. Strange, red-shelled creatures with succulent meat coming out of the back. Black-shelled things that, in Seele’s eyes, looked vaguely like snot. Fillets of what appeared to be fish, at least that’s what she thought fish looked like.
“According to the IPC, these are lobsters and oysters.” Bronya pointed towards the red-shelled and black-shelled things in turn. “Seafood.”
“The oysters look kinda gross.”
“I don’t disagree, but they’re certainly interesting aren’t they?”
“True,” she agreed. “Might as well try them. Who knows when our next chance will be.”
Acquiring a plate, they quickly loaded up on lobster, oysters, and some of the fish that had been put out. Seele decided to try the oysters first, that way, if they were disgusting, she had the other stuff to fall back on. Following the lead of a nearby guest, she tipped the oyster back into her mouth. It was really salty, and just a bit sweet. For her Underworlder tongue, it was intense. The smooth texture felt as if it slid down her throat. She forced herself to swallow, but coughed and sputtered,
“You okay, Seele?” Bronya placed a gentle hand on her back.
“I’m good, I’m okay,” she replied, wiping her mouth. “The taste wasn’t terrible, but that texture was something else.”
Bronya giggled. “I didn’t mind it, actually.”
“I’m glad someone enjoyed it at least.” She side-eyed the man at the table who was currently sucking the oysters back one after another. She shivered.
“Lobster next?” Bronya asked.
Seele nodded. Turning towards the red-shelled creature with mild trepidation.
“They recommend pairing it with this butter and herb mixture.” Bronya picked up the lobster tail. The meat had already been separated for easy access. With a quick flick she dunked the meat into the mixture and then held it out towards Seele.
“Really, you want to feed it to me?”
Bronya nodded, watching her expectantly. She leaned forward and gingerly took a bite of the lobster. It was rich, sweet, and a little salty. The butter and herbs were almost overwhelming to her underdeveloped palate, but it was good.
“Much better than the oysters.” Seele picked up the piece of her plate and dipped it in the butter. “Alright, your turn.”
Bronya had already positioned herself. Seele held out the lobster as Bronya closed her eyes. She took a bite… slowly, savouring the flavour and the process. Seele swallowed. Why did it seem so sultry?
“You’re right, it really is good.”
They continued to try the arranged delicacies for a while. Each presenting a new and interesting flavour. There were sweet tarts and other baked goods. Spicy Luofu dishes, and rich and creamy pastas. Food from all over the universe had been gathered in Belobog. And while Seele knew that it was all probably good, for a people who had access to minimal spices for so long, well some of it was intense.
Once they had eaten their fill, they flit about the room, mingling with some of the guests and greeting old friends. The Astral Express told some crazy stories about a world called Amphoreus, and of a puzzling mystery on the planet of Penacony. For some reason the man with the wings appeared uncomfortable at that particular retelling, but neither of them pried. The Xianzhou representatives shared interesting tales of far-flung places and battles against a group known as the Denizens of the Abundance. While the IPC executives tried to impress upon them the wonders of Pier Point and other worlds under their banner. Bronya remained unconvinced and Seele simply rolled her eyes. They were happy to have allies, but Belobog’s independence was important.
Eventually, during a moment of quiet, the tables were taken away and the floor was finally cleared. Seele continued to thumb the ring box in her pocket, absentmindedly. It wouldn’t be long before she would finally get to pop the question.
While the music had remained fairly calm and consistent for most of the evening, the band was now given centre stage as they shifted to a more energetic, jazzy style. It was smooth, cool, and quite to Seele’s taste. Maybe she and Bronya could take a trip to Penacony some time? People took to the now empty floor and began to dance. It was the outsiders that took the lead, far more familiar with the music compared to the native Belobogians.
“Come on Seele, come dance with me.” Bronya snapped Seele from her reverie.
“Yeah, sure!” Seele agreed wholeheartedly.
The two of them stepped out onto the dance floor. Both of them looked around, trying to figure out what to do, but that didn’t amount to much. A few were doing an intricate, meticulous dance, while others were just moving to the music.
“Whadda say princess?” Seele motioned towards the dancers. “You wanna try to copy them, or just do our own thing?”
“I’m afraid that’s probably too complicated for me.” Bronya giggled. “Let’s just do our own thing.”
Throwing themselves into the crowd, they danced to the rising crescendo of the music. The beat was quick, light. The sound of the saxophone was loud, but not unpleasant. They wiggled to the music, just another pair of people in the crowd.
The band played a few songs, until eventually they turned towards a much slower, intimate tune. The lead singer, a woman with ochre skin, shoulder length brown hair, and a beautiful cocktail dress, began to sing a romantic song. And not just any romantic song, but one from Belobog.
“I wonder how long she’s been practising this one?” Seele wondered aloud. “I’ve heard this play in the theatre a few times.
“According to Stelle she’s been practising for a few months,” Bronya replied. “Stelle gave her a collection of Belobog music once I agreed to bring them on.”
Seele shook her head. “She’s a weirdo, but she really goes above and beyond for us, doesn’t she?”
“If not for her, we may never have had the chance to meet one another.” Bronya held out a hand to Seele. “We should thank her again, some time.”
“Sure.” Seele grinned, taking Bronya’s hand. “Right after I kick her ass.”
Bronya raised an eyebrow but said nothing. They moved away from the crowd as a multitude of pairs formed up. From her position, Seele spied March dragging Stelle onto the dance floor.
Bronya wrapped her arms around Seele’s shoulders, while she put her hands around Bronya’s waist. In time with the music, they rocked back and forth, tuning out the world around them. Seele’s heart fluttered as she remained transfixed on Bronya’s steely grey eyes.
“You know, I’m not complaining, but you could’ve had anyone on Belobog and you chose a punk from the Underworld.”
Bronya snorted. “I think you’re a little bit more than a punk you know?”
“Not according to Nat and Oleg.
“Those two practically raised you, of course they’d see you that way.”
“Yeah, yeah. You’re right.” Seele chuckled.
“Besides, that ‘punk from the Underworld,’ has been my constant rock and companion since I became Supreme Guardian,” Bronya said, a soft, gentle smile on her face.
“I mean, someone has to keep you grounded,” Seele replied.
“Certainly, I’m just happy it’s you Seele,” Bronya continued. “I still remember that night we realized just how much in common we had, at the old orphanage.”
“Jeez, I was kind of a jerk.”
“Maybe, you weren’t wrong, though.”
They continued dancing, Bronya inching closer until she was able to rest her head against Seele, eyes closed and utterly relaxed. It had been a long, difficult road, but tonight, it finally felt like Belobog was safe- peaceful. Sure, the threat of the fragmentum was still at large, but with reinforcements from the IPC and the Xianzhou, it had become much more manageable.
“Belobog has been through so much, I’m just happy we can have a peaceful moment like this,” Seele whispered. “Even if it’s way too formal for my taste.”
Bronya giggled. “You’re right. It’s strange, but it almost feels like the beginning of something.
Seele swallowed, thoughts wandering to the ring in her pocket.
“Hah. I wonder why that is?” Seele replied, trying to hide the nervousness in her voice.
“Is something wrong, Seele?”
“It’s nothing, don’t worry about it princess.”
Somewhere nearby, Seele noticed Stelle and March had finished their dance. The red-haired man was speaking to the two of them, and suspiciously, Stelle was pointing their way.
“Actually,” Seel growled under her breath. “It looks like Stelle is plotting something.”
Bronya raised her head from Seele’s chest and looked towards Stelle and the red-haired man.
“Oh, I know him,” Bronya began, clinging to Seele as much as she could while craning her neck to look. “That’s Argenti, a wandering knight. March told me that he and Stelle get along really well.”
“That’s the worst thing I’ve heard all night.”
As if on cue, Argenti began walking towards them, a dumb smile on his face. Behind him, Stelle was snickering while March just shook her head and sighed. It was only then that Seele noticed that the other dancers had cleared the centre of the room. Only she and Bronya were still dancing.
“Shit.”
“Seele!”
“Sorry.”
“Everyone!” Argenti began, one hand on his chest and the other outstretched towards the two of them. “I have an announcement to make.”
The room became dark, and then the non-existent spotlight appeared over Bronya and Seele.
“This next and final song is dedicated to the pair of the hour, the Supreme Guardian and her partner, Seele!” he continued, rose petals falling around the two of them. “By the grace of Idrila, give them a warm round of applause. For this, this is true Beauty!”
At first, only a single pair of hands began to clap as the music changed tempo. Seele felt her face heating up again, and even Bronya seemed a little embarrassed by the sudden attention.
“You were right, we will have to kick her ass afterwards,” Bronya grumbled, quite literally thrust into the spotlight.
“I told you.” Seele groaned. “What do we do?”
“We’ll just have to have to smile and dance,” Bronya replied.
“Fine.” Seele shook her head, resigning herself to her fate. “Do you know how to dance the Waltz, Bronya?”
“Yes, of course.” It took Bronya a few moments to properly process Seele’s sentence. “Wait, you know how to Waltz?”
Seele was not amused by how surprised Bronya sounded.
“Not well, but Nat’s been drilling it into me for months now.”
Nodding to one another as the band started to play another jazzy sounding song, they quickly positioned themselves for the dance. One hand on each other’s shoulder, the other clasped tightly together. Then, they began their dance.
“One two three, one two three…” Seele muttered as they began to move back and forth, stepping in, to the side, closing, then moving out again.
“Keeping count, Seele?” Broyna giggled.
“I have to or I’m going to trip on one of us and it won’t be pretty.”
They closed in again, then Seele spun Bronya round until they were virtually embracing.
“It’s fine, we just have to make it through a song.”
They continued into the next step as Bronya twirled out, until they were only connected by their held hands. In the darkness, Seele could spy Jing Yuan whispering to Argenti.
What are they plotting now ?
They came in again, resuming their original position as they strut across the dancefloor. Trying to keep time, Seele grabbed Bronya by her waist and deftly lifted her into the air
“You’re quite good at this Seele,” Bronya whispered. “Just how much practice have you done?”
Seele balked at the memories of Natasha trying to teach her the dance. While she had always been intimidating, it was like she’d turned into a tyrant.
“Dozens of hours, at least.”
“It definitely paid off.”
“Thanks,” Seele replied, stepping away from Bronya for a moment before moving back in. “I didn’t want to disappoint you.”
“Don’t worry, you will never disappoint me.”
Despite the spotlight, the two lovebirds tuned out the world around them, lost in the intimacy of their shared dance. They stepped forward and back, hand in hand, spinning, twirling, and occasionally jumping into the air. It was breathtaking, in every sense of the word. The crowd fell silent, even Stelle’s jaunting came to an end. It was obvious, from the expressions to the way they moved, that they were deeply, madly in love. Even Idrila THEMSELF would have been satisfied by this dance dedicated by the two of them.
Eventually, just as all things must, the song, and with it, the dance, reached its climatic finish. With Broyna in her arms, Seele lowered her to the ground, as far as she could possibly go. She took a deep breath- the dance took more energy than she thought it would. Bronya’s chest rose and fell as she too sought air. Applause erupted around the room as the spotlight began to fade.
Maybe it was the heat of the moment, but Seele saw her chance and she took it. Lifting Bronya up slightly, she leaned down and kissed her deeply on the lips. Bronya wrapped her arms around Seele’s neck, returning the passionate kiss. The applause rose to a cheer, and at last the spotlight faded and the room fell into shadowy darkness.
“Come with me, quick.” Seele pulled Bronya back to her feet and took off at a run towards the balcony.
“Wait, Seele, where are we going?”
“Not far.”
By the time the lights flickered to life once more, they had already escaped the ballroom and out into the cool night air. They were alone on the balcony, overlooking the vastness of Belobog and the great snowplains beyond. Seele could hear a bit of a commotion inside- it sounded like Stelle and March had been dragged into a similar dance by Argenti.
He’s a pretty cool guy that Jing Yuan . She thought.
The stars in the sky glittered. A thousand dancing lights amongst a sea of darkness. Countless worlds, known and unknown. Belobog wasn’t alone. She wasn’t alone. Seele turned to Bronya, still holding her hand, and smiled.
“Remember when we first saw the sky together? The same sky?”
“I do.” Bronya replied, her gaze fixated on the great firmament above. “It was beautiful, but bittersweet. Mother had just passed, but I was so thankful that you were there for me.”
Bronya squeezed her hand- she squeezed it back.
“It was right then and there when I realized I wanted nothing more than to always be able to share that with you.”
“I felt the same way.” Bronya turned to look at Seele. Her face was delicate, illuminated gently by the night sky. Seele felt herself falling in love for the umpteenth time. “I never wanted to let you go.”
By this point, Seele figured she would be more nervous than anything else, but she was strangely calm. She stuck a free hand in her pocket and thumbed the ring case once more.
“I know we don’t always see eye-to-eye, but regardless, I’ll love and support you no matter what.”
“You don’t know how much I rely on that exactly, Seele.” Bronya pulled her closer and drew her in for a kiss. “I value your words- your advice, more than anyone else’s.”
“Good!” Seele managed to muster up some bravado. “A princess like you needs a street punk like me to remind you of things.”
“Of course, Seele.” Bronya giggled. “And know that I will always be there to support you as well. An equal partnership requires effort from the both of us.”
“True,” Seele smiled, grabbing the ring case. “Together we’ll build a brighter future for Belobog. One where people don’t have to go hungry. Where they don’t have to be scared about tomorrow.”
“That’s right, we will. You and me,” Bronya replied.
Seele took a step back, producing the case from within her pocket.
“Seele?” Bronya asked, though it seemed like she understood Seele’s intentions, as her hand covered her mouth.
“I’ve been thinking about this for a while, and I know you feel the same way,” she warbled. “But Bronya, I want us to build a future not just for Belobog, but for us.”
She leaned down on one knee, raised her hands, and opened the ring case. Inside was a golden ring, it was an intricately woven band of several intertwining pieces. Within the clasp was a piece of heart-shaped geomarrow that Seele had mined herself. It had taken a lot of saving and finagling, but she’d managed to get it made by an off-world jeweler.
“Bronya, please, would you marry me?”
Tears immediately sprung from Bronya’ eyes and she gasped. “Yes, of course. Absolutely I’ll marry you, Seele!”
A wide smile spread across Seele’s face. She stood up, removed Bronya’s left glove, and gingerly slid the ring onto her finger. It was a perfect fit- she had conspired with Serval to get the size several months ago.
“Bronya, I love you with all my heart.” She drew Bronya into a deep hug. “Let’s stick together until the end, okay?”
“Of course, Seele.” Bronya nuzzled into her chest, her arms wrapped tightly around Seele. “Together until the very end.”
And so the two women stood, promised to one another, illuminated by the stars streaking across the night sky.