The entire carriage ride into town Leo is sidled next to Niles, thigh to thigh. He's absently playing with Niles fingers while keeping his eyes ahead of him. Making pleasant small talk with Niles all while not giving a clue as to where they're going.
They have a couple different stops to make within the market and first up in a quaint little stitch shop that Camilla often commissions for her and Elise's gowns. He's always loved their work and if anyone is to make their wedding attire (that Niles doesn't know about yet), Leo wants it to be them.]
Niles, would you mind terribly if they took some measurements?
[ Niles... isn't sure at all what Leo's thinking. But it all seems innocent enough - and he certainly is lacking in the Clothes Truly Suited For A Royal's Retainer department. So he smiles easily at Leo, only letting go of his hand when one of the tailors step toward him with a measurer in hand. ]
Certainly not - but some parts are for your eyes only, milord. [ w i n k. He won't say anything lewder than that, to spare the poor employee who's working with him. He's trying to be a good boy, honest! But as he's staying perfectly still for them, he glances over toward Leo. ] You have something in mind for me, don't you?
[Leo only smiles, knowingly, at him in response to the innuendo and Niles' question.]
That I do. [He helps Niles take of his cape so the measurements can be more accurate and then proceeds to watch as the tailor looks over the love of his life. They're very thorough. That's why Leo likes them.] You know how father and Camilla like to throw parties on whim. It doesn't hurt to have a new piece at the ready.
But I also think you'll look especially handsome in what I have in mind. [The tailor continues with Niles' measurements until they're satisfied and then goes to Leo's for his. They have more up to date measurements for Leo but it's always good to double check. Especially when the tailors are very aware of what even they've been commissioned for. Everything has to be perfect.
Leo promises they'll just be a moment more in the stitch shop. He just want to look over some of the fabrics the tailors have pulled for him and Niles. If Niles cares to take a look, he'll find most of the fabrics are muted in color. Off white sateens or some with delicate embossed paisley. Gold trims galore. There are some other striking, darker colors in the batch, though, so Niles shouldn't get too much of a hint.]
[ Oh, Leo, you know just how to make Niles so delighted. ]
Well. I'll be honored to wear whatever you have in mind for me. I'm yours to decorate as you please.
[ Which he'll end up helping with a little, as he gravitates back to Leo's side as soon as the tailor is finished taking their measurements. Niles has never associated himself with lighter colors - they're too pure, nothing like him, and they stain far too easily, which is more than unfitting for the dirty work he does - but his eye lingers over a dusty purple and, without thinking, he reaches out to rest his hand against the fabric, feeling it beneath his fingertips. It's soft. Nice. Really nice.
Niles hums in thought, then looks to the next fabric. ]
[Niles' favoring that one fabric does not escape Leo. In fact, he was kind of hoping this would happen. He makes note of it and, as inconspicuously as possible, pulls the tailor aside to whisper to them.
When all the fabric starts blending together and looking the same, Leo takes Niles hand in his own to lead him out the shop. At the stores entranceway he bows, gives his thanks to the shopkeepers, and reminds them that he'll be back later in the week (hopefully with a more informed Niles in tow).
Outside, the market streets are bustling with people as always, forcing Leo to stick ever closer to Niles.] That's one down. [An idle comment, really.] The next stop shouldn't take as long.
[ Being around this many people makes him wary. Not for any reasons rooted in anxiety or claustrophobia, but because he's sworn to protect Leo. It's nothing personal, but he kinda has to be on high alert, even in more peaceful times like this.
He wraps his arm around Leo's shoulder, to keep him closer still. ] I'm alright, milord. [ Shoulder squeeze! ] Where are you taking me next?
[They'll be out of the crowd soon. Their next destination is only a little ways away.]
The florist. [Leo chirps. There aren't too many florists in Nohr given the state of their land and how they're still fresh out of the war. Such a luxury hadn't be necessary or feasible up until now. But with Hoshido's help restoring the earth, and a little of Leo's own magic giving life to new flora and fawna, crops and flowers are slowly becoming more abundant. They can afford to have a little florist shop in the corner of the market.
For that reason, Leo's already very familiar with the owner of the shop and is greeted as such. They, like the tailors are aware of his plans and are ready to show him their work. "Lord Leo! We've been waiting for you, we have! Come, we've put together something we think you.. and your partner... will love! Truly!"
[That will be the only hint of something going on that Niles will be getting for now!!!
The florist has a beautiful variety of arrangements set out for them. They all suit the Nohr aesthetic and lowkey match the fabrics Leo and Niles had just mulled over. Center pieces with white roses and delicate purple flowers sprinkled within. Leo is fond of the ones that incorporate vines into the pieces due to Brynhildr. But he's also very fond of some of the more earthy arrangements presented to them. Peach roses, white daffodils, and calla lilies with pine cones, of all things, and sprigs of light green ferns to break up the white. It's not what one would expect at a royal wedding, that's for sure.
Leo taps his chin thoughtfully.] What do you think, Niles? [He points to the one with the vines and then to the one with pinecones.] I personally would like a combination of these two. Perhaps if the fern was swapped for a vine? Like Clematis? Or -- ah -- silver bells!
[ Leo is such a plant nerd and Niles loves him so much?
But while he doesn't have an eye for fabrics, he definitely doesn't for flowers. Not that he doesn't appreciate plants - for being such a destructive spell, Brynhildr has its beauty - but he's never thought of them beyond they exist, and now with more abundance because of his love's tireless work.
Still. Niles takes his time to take in all their options, then gives his not really expert opinion. ] For us? I think I agree with you. [ He points to the same arrangement with the vines. ] It feels... right. As right as flowers can feel for a man like me. [ aka not... really at all, at least to himself. ]
[Niles has no idea what a silver bell is and that's okay.
Leo smiles behind his hand.] "A man like you".... There's a lot to unpack in that statement.
But thank you. [And to the florists, another thank you. Just as with the tailors, Leo promises that he will return later in the week. If they have any trouble procuring the flowers, please let him know. He'll see what he can do.
It's getting to be around lunch time by the time they exit the florist. It's perfect timing, which Leo hadn't actually planned, because their next stop is a bakery. He bumps Niles with his shoulder.]
[ it's a bell made out of silver??? what else could it be?????? why can't it just be plant #394 instead
Niles, to his credit, is doing his best to try and unravel this mystery with what little he has. He highly doubts Leo would say anything if he asks - he's always tight-lipped with his plans, telling who needs to know only what they need to know. But nothing connects cleanly. How do an outfit for a future ball and a flower arrangement even relate?
The bump jolts him out of his head quickly. ] Hm? [ Oh. Yes. Food. His stomach grumbles at the thought. ] Quite, milord.
[In other words, Leo requested the bakery to do some of the wedding dishes. They'll only be tasting appetizers today and maybe a couple desserts but it promises to be filling enough for lunch time.
The owners of the bakery (is it even a bakery) sit them down in a quiet corner and begin bringing a couple different plates around to them. A bottle of wine is brought to accompany the tasting despite the time of day. Leo doesn't even seem phased by it and gestures for a toast with his glass after they've both been poured.
Niles should be very familiar with the smile on Leo's face this time. He's very satisfied; everything's gone as planned.]
[ we're here at the combination fantasy bakery/high enough end place to cater wedding dishes for a royal
Niles picks up his wine glass with practiced (very practiced) poise and mirrors Leo's motions for the toast. ] Cheers. [ He takes that first sip of wine but before he takes a bite out of any of the appetizers he takes a moment to look at his love. ]
... I won't ask what else you have up your sleeve, Leo, [ Now that they're alone, it feels easier to drop the formalities. ] but I must say, I've quite enjoyed this adventure you've brought me along for so far. Though it is a little out of our norm.
[It's probably not even that high end, honestly, Leo just really likes the food. They make a really good stuffed tomato.
Niles is onto something but Leo's relieved he hasn't totally caught on yet. They're close to their final destination where Leo's finally going to propose.
He takes a sip from his own wine glass.] I thought it might be nice to do something a little different. Something a little more.. domestic, if I may.
[He offers his hand across the table, silently asking for Niles' own.] It's not often we can. But we deserve it. You deserve it.
[Hhh god he wants to marry this man. Leo never doubted whether this was the right choice but now he knows and its every bit of resistance in Leo's body to not pop the question right now.
He bites his lip but his smile is too strong.] I love you, too.
[They continue their sampling, Leo just a bit more antsy than he was previously, and end with a small dessert. Leo does his thing at the end where he whispers to the owner of the establishment and then bids them well.
Except this time, they're also sent off with another bottle of wine along with a pair of wine glasses tucked in whicker basket. That's uh, normal, right? Right.
Leo links his arm round Niles again. He's sure to press against him.] One last stop, I promise.
[Surprise, it's a church. A humble little building on the edge of a lake. But they aren't going in the church; the church actually has nothing to do with this - it just happens to be there. What Leo's really interested in is that lake and the open field that surrounds it.]
[ It's truly a beautiful scene - it's quiet, beautiful, given new life after so long of being dull and lifeless - and Niles feels his heart clench as he thinks, he thinks he knows what's going on, what's going to happen, but because he so desperately doesn't want to be wrong he refuses to think on it.
Besides, if he really is right, then surely he's about to hear it from the man himself, right?
He presses a light kiss against Leo's temple, then takes a moment to admire the lake. ] I never thought I'd say this, but... it's beautiful here. [ For most of Niles's life, Nohr has been a cruel place to live. Being by Leo's side made things easier, sure, but it didn't change the facts that many people suffered under previous kings and queens. A sight like this - it gives Niles hope for the future. A happy future. ]
Imagine at sundown... the reflection of the sun on the water will be breathtaking.
[Leo's chosen a spot on the lake that's removed enough away from everything that they wont be disturbed, but activity within the church can still be heard soft in the background.
It's peaceful.]
It's perfect... [Leo breathes, to himself, and bends at the knee to lower the basket down onto the floor. However, even after it's placed, he doesn't rise. He keeps on one knee and takes Niles' hand in his own.]
Niles I... I'm sure you've caught on by now, to what this is all about. And I don't have a speech for you - not when you've always understood my feelings better than anyone else. I just want to get straight to the point. [He takes out the ring, simple with a small gem in the middle, because he knows Niles would never like anything extravagant.] Niles, will you marry me?
[ Well. Looks like he was right. And though he expected it after a point, seeing Leo on one knee looking up at him with such love and adoration and the ring presented to him (god that ring. it's perfect. when did he even get it? how long and meticulously had he been planning everything up to this moment?) has his pulse racing, his face heating up slowly as reality sinks in that Leo really, truly asked for his hand in marriage.
A warm smile grows on his face and he drops down to his knees in front of Leo, to wrap his arms around him tight as he breathlessly replies ] Of course. I want to be yours forever, Leo.
[ The scene Leo described sounded truly beautiful - the orange and purple hues coloring the water as twilight creeps into the sky - but this, this is much more breathtaking. ]
Leo hadn't expected Niles to say no, that's why he went about this the way he did - essentially making some of the wedding plans as their date - but hearing Niles actually say yes (or a form of yes) and agreeing to marry him still makes Leo's heart swell. His own face blooms pink with his happiness and he throws his arms around Niles in return.
To be with Niles, his soulmate, forever... to be bound together as more than just lord and retainer. It almost feels too good to be true.]
Since the day you stepped into the castle, invited or not, you've changed my life. You've made me the happiest man in Nohr. I only want to be able to do the same for you.
[ The laugh that slips from his lips is not one of his usual sultry chuckles. He's embarrassed but fond, too emotional to think of much beyond how deeply in love he is with Leo.
He presses his face against Leo's shoulder and breathes in deeply. Squeezes him tighter. ] You already have, a million times over.
[ It's never been easy for Niles to be open with his feelings, even with Leo. But he really, truly wants to say this. Especially after all the effort Leo's gone through, for him. ] I never thought it was possible to feel as happy as I do with you.
Leo loves being held by Niles but it is by no means enough right now. He pulls away just so, so he can cup his now fiancé's (!!!!) face in his hands and bring them together to kiss.] I love you... so, so very much.
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no subject
The entire carriage ride into town Leo is sidled next to Niles, thigh to thigh. He's absently playing with Niles fingers while keeping his eyes ahead of him. Making pleasant small talk with Niles all while not giving a clue as to where they're going.
They have a couple different stops to make within the market and first up in a quaint little stitch shop that Camilla often commissions for her and Elise's gowns. He's always loved their work and if anyone is to make their wedding attire (that Niles doesn't know about yet), Leo wants it to be them.]
Niles, would you mind terribly if they took some measurements?
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Certainly not - but some parts are for your eyes only, milord. [ w i n k. He won't say anything lewder than that, to spare the poor employee who's working with him. He's trying to be a good boy, honest! But as he's staying perfectly still for them, he glances over toward Leo. ] You have something in mind for me, don't you?
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That I do. [He helps Niles take of his cape so the measurements can be more accurate and then proceeds to watch as the tailor looks over the love of his life. They're very thorough. That's why Leo likes them.] You know how father and Camilla like to throw parties on whim. It doesn't hurt to have a new piece at the ready.
But I also think you'll look especially handsome in what I have in mind. [The tailor continues with Niles' measurements until they're satisfied and then goes to Leo's for his. They have more up to date measurements for Leo but it's always good to double check. Especially when the tailors are very aware of what even they've been commissioned for. Everything has to be perfect.
Leo promises they'll just be a moment more in the stitch shop. He just want to look over some of the fabrics the tailors have pulled for him and Niles. If Niles cares to take a look, he'll find most of the fabrics are muted in color. Off white sateens or some with delicate embossed paisley. Gold trims galore. There are some other striking, darker colors in the batch, though, so Niles shouldn't get too much of a hint.]
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Well. I'll be honored to wear whatever you have in mind for me. I'm yours to decorate as you please.
[ Which he'll end up helping with a little, as he gravitates back to Leo's side as soon as the tailor is finished taking their measurements. Niles has never associated himself with lighter colors - they're too pure, nothing like him, and they stain far too easily, which is more than unfitting for the dirty work he does - but his eye lingers over a dusty purple and, without thinking, he reaches out to rest his hand against the fabric, feeling it beneath his fingertips. It's soft. Nice. Really nice.
Niles hums in thought, then looks to the next fabric. ]
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When all the fabric starts blending together and looking the same, Leo takes Niles hand in his own to lead him out the shop. At the stores entranceway he bows, gives his thanks to the shopkeepers, and reminds them that he'll be back later in the week (hopefully with a more informed Niles in tow).
Outside, the market streets are bustling with people as always, forcing Leo to stick ever closer to Niles.] That's one down. [An idle comment, really.] The next stop shouldn't take as long.
How are you feeling?
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He wraps his arm around Leo's shoulder, to keep him closer still. ] I'm alright, milord. [ Shoulder squeeze! ] Where are you taking me next?
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The florist. [Leo chirps. There aren't too many florists in Nohr given the state of their land and how they're still fresh out of the war. Such a luxury hadn't be necessary or feasible up until now. But with Hoshido's help restoring the earth, and a little of Leo's own magic giving life to new flora and fawna, crops and flowers are slowly becoming more abundant. They can afford to have a little florist shop in the corner of the market.
For that reason, Leo's already very familiar with the owner of the shop and is greeted as such. They, like the tailors are aware of his plans and are ready to show him their work. "Lord Leo! We've been waiting for you, we have! Come, we've put together something we think you.. and your partner... will love! Truly!"
Leo glances up at Niles.] Shall we?
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Niles stops himself from making any assumptions at the moment and takes the first step forward. ] Of course. [ HE'S SO CURIOUS NOW AAAAA????? ]
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The florist has a beautiful variety of arrangements set out for them. They all suit the Nohr aesthetic and lowkey match the fabrics Leo and Niles had just mulled over. Center pieces with white roses and delicate purple flowers sprinkled within. Leo is fond of the ones that incorporate vines into the pieces due to Brynhildr. But he's also very fond of some of the more earthy arrangements presented to them. Peach roses, white daffodils, and calla lilies with pine cones, of all things, and sprigs of light green ferns to break up the white. It's not what one would expect at a royal wedding, that's for sure.
Leo taps his chin thoughtfully.] What do you think, Niles? [He points to the one with the vines and then to the one with pinecones.] I personally would like a combination of these two. Perhaps if the fern was swapped for a vine? Like Clematis? Or -- ah -- silver bells!
[Leo nerding out over plants? Check.]
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But while he doesn't have an eye for fabrics, he definitely doesn't for flowers. Not that he doesn't appreciate plants - for being such a destructive spell, Brynhildr has its beauty - but he's never thought of them beyond they exist, and now with more abundance because of his love's tireless work.
Still. Niles takes his time to take in all their options, then gives his not really expert opinion. ] For us? I think I agree with you. [ He points to the same arrangement with the vines. ] It feels... right. As right as flowers can feel for a man like me. [ aka not... really at all, at least to himself. ]
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Leo smiles behind his hand.] "A man like you".... There's a lot to unpack in that statement.
But thank you. [And to the florists, another thank you. Just as with the tailors, Leo promises that he will return later in the week. If they have any trouble procuring the flowers, please let him know. He'll see what he can do.
It's getting to be around lunch time by the time they exit the florist. It's perfect timing, which Leo hadn't actually planned, because their next stop is a bakery. He bumps Niles with his shoulder.]
Hope you're hungry.
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Niles, to his credit, is doing his best to try and unravel this mystery with what little he has. He highly doubts Leo would say anything if he asks - he's always tight-lipped with his plans, telling who needs to know only what they need to know. But nothing connects cleanly. How do an outfit for a future ball and a flower arrangement even relate?
The bump jolts him out of his head quickly. ] Hm? [ Oh. Yes. Food. His stomach grumbles at the thought. ] Quite, milord.
[ So to the bakery they go...!! ]
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[In other words, Leo requested the bakery to do some of the wedding dishes. They'll only be tasting appetizers today and maybe a couple desserts but it promises to be filling enough for lunch time.
The owners of the bakery (is it even a bakery) sit them down in a quiet corner and begin bringing a couple different plates around to them. A bottle of wine is brought to accompany the tasting despite the time of day. Leo doesn't even seem phased by it and gestures for a toast with his glass after they've both been poured.
Niles should be very familiar with the smile on Leo's face this time. He's very satisfied; everything's gone as planned.]
Cheers.
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Niles picks up his wine glass with practiced (very practiced) poise and mirrors Leo's motions for the toast. ] Cheers. [ He takes that first sip of wine but before he takes a bite out of any of the appetizers he takes a moment to look at his love. ]
... I won't ask what else you have up your sleeve, Leo, [ Now that they're alone, it feels easier to drop the formalities. ] but I must say, I've quite enjoyed this adventure you've brought me along for so far. Though it is a little out of our norm.
[ HE'S ONTO SOMETHING, AT LEAST ]
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Niles is onto something but Leo's relieved he hasn't totally caught on yet. They're close to their final destination where Leo's finally going to propose.
He takes a sip from his own wine glass.] I thought it might be nice to do something a little different. Something a little more.. domestic, if I may.
[He offers his hand across the table, silently asking for Niles' own.] It's not often we can. But we deserve it. You deserve it.
[This small bliss. This happiness.]
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And here I thought I couldn't fall for you any more. [ His voice is soft, a little strained because he's happy. He's feeling the bliss. ] I love you.
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He bites his lip but his smile is too strong.] I love you, too.
[They continue their sampling, Leo just a bit more antsy than he was previously, and end with a small dessert. Leo does his thing at the end where he whispers to the owner of the establishment and then bids them well.
Except this time, they're also sent off with another bottle of wine along with a pair of wine glasses tucked in whicker basket. That's uh, normal, right? Right.
Leo links his arm round Niles again. He's sure to press against him.] One last stop, I promise.
[Surprise, it's a church. A humble little building on the edge of a lake. But they aren't going in the church; the church actually has nothing to do with this - it just happens to be there. What Leo's really interested in is that lake and the open field that surrounds it.]
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Besides, if he really is right, then surely he's about to hear it from the man himself, right?
He presses a light kiss against Leo's temple, then takes a moment to admire the lake. ] I never thought I'd say this, but... it's beautiful here. [ For most of Niles's life, Nohr has been a cruel place to live. Being by Leo's side made things easier, sure, but it didn't change the facts that many people suffered under previous kings and queens. A sight like this - it gives Niles hope for the future. A happy future. ]
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[Leo's chosen a spot on the lake that's removed enough away from everything that they wont be disturbed, but activity within the church can still be heard soft in the background.
It's peaceful.]
It's perfect... [Leo breathes, to himself, and bends at the knee to lower the basket down onto the floor. However, even after it's placed, he doesn't rise. He keeps on one knee and takes Niles' hand in his own.]
Niles I... I'm sure you've caught on by now, to what this is all about. And I don't have a speech for you - not when you've always understood my feelings better than anyone else. I just want to get straight to the point. [He takes out the ring, simple with a small gem in the middle, because he knows Niles would never like anything extravagant.] Niles, will you marry me?
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A warm smile grows on his face and he drops down to his knees in front of Leo, to wrap his arms around him tight as he breathlessly replies ] Of course. I want to be yours forever, Leo.
[ The scene Leo described sounded truly beautiful - the orange and purple hues coloring the water as twilight creeps into the sky - but this, this is much more breathtaking. ]
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Leo hadn't expected Niles to say no, that's why he went about this the way he did - essentially making some of the wedding plans as their date - but hearing Niles actually say yes (or a form of yes) and agreeing to marry him still makes Leo's heart swell. His own face blooms pink with his happiness and he throws his arms around Niles in return.
To be with Niles, his soulmate, forever... to be bound together as more than just lord and retainer. It almost feels too good to be true.]
Since the day you stepped into the castle, invited or not, you've changed my life. You've made me the happiest man in Nohr. I only want to be able to do the same for you.
[He's so in love with this man. So, so in love.]
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He presses his face against Leo's shoulder and breathes in deeply. Squeezes him tighter. ] You already have, a million times over.
[ It's never been easy for Niles to be open with his feelings, even with Leo. But he really, truly wants to say this. Especially after all the effort Leo's gone through, for him. ] I never thought it was possible to feel as happy as I do with you.
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Leo loves being held by Niles but it is by no means enough right now. He pulls away just so, so he can cup his now fiancé's (!!!!) face in his hands and bring them together to kiss.] I love you... so, so very much.