[ His answer isn't what she'd expected. She falls quiet for a bit, stunned by his words, and her expression – the way she looks at him, with her eyes wide and mouth open – says it all. ]
[Said without an ounce of hesitation. There are few who see the world as they do, so if Diluc can do nothing else for Lucia, he can confirm that they view it through the same lens.]
And it's a welcome relief to hear that you see it as I do. I wasn't wrong about you.
[I knew you were a good person from the moment I met you.]
[ She would argue with him if he ever said that to her, but for now, she's just...grateful for his understanding. She thinks he's the good person, between the two of them. She doesn't even want to think about all the trouble she's caused people in the past. ]
I...yes. I'm one of those who...who didn't end up being able to gain any abilities. It's uncommon, but we're out there. And because of that...
[Uncommon, is it? Where Diluc comes from, the opposite is true: only a blessed few arbitrarily gain the favor of the Archons and are granted a Vision in return. Given his perspective, it's only natural that he'd sympathize with Lucia's plight, but he goes a step beyond that.]
You're much too quick to dismiss yourself as 'nothing,' and for what? A lack of magical prowess doesn't make you more or less of a human being. People ought to be judged based on their own merits, not powers granted to them by the gods or whomever else.
[Lucia is much more than she gives herself credit for: kind, a hard worker, and someone willing to adapt in the face of upheaval. It's a genuine shame she can't see that... but then again, can't Diluc relate?]
...I know. I know that – I've been trying. I've tried so hard to prove myself, but...
[ People are narrow-minded. They're stuck in their ways. She's nothing but a curse to her family as far as she's concerned, and that's why being here feels more like home than her actual world ever has. She's not entirely blameless, though. ]
I...I wasn't the best child, either. And before being brought here, it was all coming back to bite me... That's why...I'm grateful to be here, in Crescentview.
[ She's getting choked up. Out of all the people to cry in front of, she was hoping she wouldn't have to in front of Diluc. ]
People actually like me. People...they want to meet me, be friends with me...
[Ah, but maybe there's a reason why she's lapsed into tears before Diluc. He can't fight his impulses and he wouldn't if he could, stopping in his tracks to bring her close, lend her a warm shoulder to cry on. It's never easy seeing someone cry, much less a person who is clearly making efforts to reform themselves and live a new life according to their own whims. He can't fault Lucia for that at all.]
...Come here.
[Of course they like you, Diluc thinks, but saying so won't be enough to reform her thought process. It's much more involved than that. He hugs her tightly.]
You have much more to offer than those back home seem to realize. Perhaps a fresh start is what you needed. Here, you can be judged on your own merits... just as it should be.
[Lucia's making him realize that maybe this place isn't all bad after all. What an odd feeling.]
[ Her tears are bittersweet. The pain that's settled in her chest is now boiling to the surface; all the years of hating herself, hating her world, hating her relatives and most of the people around her are on display now for Diluc to see. He doesn't know how deeply it runs, of course, but forgiveness is difficult. Forgiving herself has been the hardest part. For what, exactly, remains to be discussed, but perhaps that'll come out in time.
The sweeter part of this is that people like Diluc have made her feel something she hasn't felt in a very, very long time. For each time someone's complimented her cooking, extended a helping hand, or simply validated her merit as a human being, she's felt a little more like herself again. What that entails is something even she's not sure of, but whatever it means to her now is better than what it meant before.
It's why it's scarily easy to return the embrace. It's her first hug from someone other than her best friend in years. She didn't realize how much she needed it until now.
She doesn't say anything as she cries. This is, hopefully, good enough. ]
[She ceded easily enough to his embrace because she needed it, right? Perhaps he does as well, looking back on the years and realizing he hasn't embraced someone properly in far, far too long... not since Father died. As a matter of fact, Father was the last person he held in his arms, cradling him until he drew his last breath.
So it's bittersweet on both ends, if for different reasons, and he thumbs along Lucia's chin to guide her up into a kiss. Chaste, lingering and sweet, he— means nothing by it, so he'd say, but just like this hug, perhaps he needed it. Still, he's quick to apologize after the fact.]
[ When she feels his thumb graze over her chin, she looks up instinctually, not knowing what's coming next – ...a kiss?
She's so stunned that she misses her chance to reciprocate. After all, nobody's ever expressed any sort of interest or attraction to her until now. The idea that anyone could be might've been laughable before now, but it's hard to think otherwise, with his lips pressed warmly against hers.
He pulls away, and she's still staring at him, eyes wide, even though they're also puffy. She sniffles, trying to find the words to say. He...apologizes, and while she could be upset, she truly isn't. ]
...No, it's...it's okay. I. I didn't even do that right, though.
[A redo... He's at a loss for a moment before he realizes what she's asking for: another kiss, right? There's nothing to point to the contrary, but he still flounders in silence before acknowledging that he's heard her correctly and acquiescing.]
...Of course.
[As you wish. Tipping his face to one side, he presses his lips to hers again, but he isn't as quick to withdraw. He allows her a moment to respond... no, to reciprocate.]
[ Diluc, you're a real one. She's surprised at her own boldness, but she deeply appreciates the opportunity to reciprocate. She feels incredibly nervous, doing so, because she's never kissed anyone before. Unsurprisingly.
She lets it linger a bit, though, because she's going to let Diluc decide when he wants to draw back. She has no idea what sort of rhythm goes into this, and she's cautious, not wanting to make things unpleasant. ]
[Diluc hasn't either, so at least the playing field is level here. Sure, he's had urges to follow his instincts just like any other person, but he was much too focused on knighthood as a youth and much too focused on vengeance in adulthood.
Only now has he been forced to slow down and consider the human side of himself, and perhaps that's why the Goddess brought him here, but he doesn't stop to consider that now. This isn't about that woman and her whims.
This is about... them now, he supposes, because it really has been years since Diluc indulged himself for his own sake. He's similarly uncertain when a kiss should begin or end, but he kisses her once, twice, thrice before he eases back. That's... good, isn't it? No, he ought to ask her.]
[ That's more than she was expecting, and based on that alone: ]
It was nice.
[ She's blushing more than she thinks she can handle, and while this certainly wasn't how she was expecting her first kiss to go, she's not complaining, either. There's something about Diluc that makes her feel heard and understood. He was probably one of the best candidates for this – though she's shocked she had any to begin with. ]
I...I'm sorry if it wasn't good on my part? It was my first.
[...That was her first, eh? Well then, he doesn't feel so bad making this admittance:]
It was mine too. If you ask me, you were perfect.
[His first kiss. He never imagined it'd be something so memorable or meaningful. That goes to show just how out of touch with his own emotions he truly is. He's always enjoyed other people, engaging with them and spending quality time with them, but it look kissing Lucia to remind him of that fact.]
So please, don't apologize. Kissing you was a privilege.
[ Despite how puffy her eyes are still, a smile manages to form on her lips. Lucia's not quite sure how she feels about Diluc, other than this was a pleasant experience, and that he's certainly someone she fully intends on sticking with for the foreseeable future. ]
Likewise, I...I'm really honored that I could be your first. Really.
[Honored... That makes him smile. Though Diluc's smiles are small and thin, this one is genuine. He really did have an enjoyable time with Lucia... more than he could have imagined he would.]
You're very kind, Lucia. If you wish to spend more time together in the future, please let me know, alright?
[ She gives him a final grin before she slowly, gently pulls away. She's still smiling, even though she's not as up close and personal. She's pretty happy, despite crying earlier. ]
[He lets her go without much fuss, though he can easily say he's much more invested in punching off this square than he was before. Perhaps it isn't too much to ask that they hold hands while they continue...? He'll understand if she'd rather not, but his offer stands, holding out his hand to her.]
Of course. It's been a long time since I've skated properly, but I'm enjoying myself more than I expected I would.
[ Oh? He's...holding his hand out? That's cute??? Goodness. She looks surprised for a split second, but they did kiss, so it only makes sense.
She carefully places her hand in his. This is fine, right? Too bad they can't knock off multiple squares in one go. Either way, she's not going to say no. Diluc is such a sweet person. ]
I'm glad... It's been a fun time. Thank you, for letting me, um...cry, a little. I appreciate it.
[This is more than fine. He takes Lucia's hand and holds it in his own— not not too firmly, but not too gently either. His genuine smiles are rather thin, but it's a smile nonetheless.]
There's no need to thank me. It's better to express your feelings than to bottle them up.
[ How sweet. She's absolutely charmed, and she doesn't even look all that nervous (even though she is, admittedly) as they skate around. She may have slowed down a little bit. May as well make this last for as long as it can. ]
You're right about that. The last person who told me that was my best friend, so I'd like to extend the same sentiment to you. If that's okay, I mean.
[He doesn't mind it at all when their pace slows. He's often in such a rush that he doesn't stop to consider taking it slow and actually enjoying himself very often, but... this feels nice. Far nicer than he could have imagined it would. Truth be told, he's missed life's simpler pleasures.]
Of course. At the same time, I can't imagine many of my own problems will come into play on this island. I'd hate to trouble you with them regardless.
[But he can easily imagine a girl like Lucia insisting. She's already done well to lift his spirits from the funk he's been in ever since arriving here.]
[ She gives him a confused look. He won't take her up on her offer? She gets it, but also, she wants him to be able to rely on her. She has to be good for something in this relationship, so... ]
Well...I don't think I should force you, but please know that the offer is there. Anytime. And I would like to help...
[ Which is kind of a shitty attempt at persuading him, but that's that. ]
[Lucia is much too kind for her own good. His troubles are nothing he should concern anyone with, considering his... everything...... but she's not going to settle for him trying to work his way out of this conversation, is she?]
Alright, then. But I can't promise you you'll enjoy listening to my woes. I have no shortage of them.
[And he really will tell her! Just. None of his vigilante shit. Maybe he's selfish, but he'd rather Lucia's impression of him remain good.]
[ The list goes on and on, though Diluc's list is probably longer. She has some things she's not ready to discuss with anyone, but he'll hear it eventually. ]
Regardless, I'm very glad to have you on my side. It helps to know that you like talking to me.
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...You...you understand.
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[Said without an ounce of hesitation. There are few who see the world as they do, so if Diluc can do nothing else for Lucia, he can confirm that they view it through the same lens.]
And it's a welcome relief to hear that you see it as I do. I wasn't wrong about you.
[I knew you were a good person from the moment I met you.]
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I...yes. I'm one of those who...who didn't end up being able to gain any abilities. It's uncommon, but we're out there. And because of that...
[ She exhales deeply. ]
...I'm...nobody, I guess.
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You're much too quick to dismiss yourself as 'nothing,' and for what? A lack of magical prowess doesn't make you more or less of a human being. People ought to be judged based on their own merits, not powers granted to them by the gods or whomever else.
[Lucia is much more than she gives herself credit for: kind, a hard worker, and someone willing to adapt in the face of upheaval. It's a genuine shame she can't see that... but then again, can't Diluc relate?]
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[ People are narrow-minded. They're stuck in their ways. She's nothing but a curse to her family as far as she's concerned, and that's why being here feels more like home than her actual world ever has. She's not entirely blameless, though. ]
I...I wasn't the best child, either. And before being brought here, it was all coming back to bite me... That's why...I'm grateful to be here, in Crescentview.
[ She's getting choked up. Out of all the people to cry in front of, she was hoping she wouldn't have to in front of Diluc. ]
People actually like me. People...they want to meet me, be friends with me...
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...Come here.
[Of course they like you, Diluc thinks, but saying so won't be enough to reform her thought process. It's much more involved than that. He hugs her tightly.]
You have much more to offer than those back home seem to realize. Perhaps a fresh start is what you needed. Here, you can be judged on your own merits... just as it should be.
[Lucia's making him realize that maybe this place isn't all bad after all. What an odd feeling.]
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The sweeter part of this is that people like Diluc have made her feel something she hasn't felt in a very, very long time. For each time someone's complimented her cooking, extended a helping hand, or simply validated her merit as a human being, she's felt a little more like herself again. What that entails is something even she's not sure of, but whatever it means to her now is better than what it meant before.
It's why it's scarily easy to return the embrace. It's her first hug from someone other than her best friend in years. She didn't realize how much she needed it until now.
She doesn't say anything as she cries. This is, hopefully, good enough. ]
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So it's bittersweet on both ends, if for different reasons, and he thumbs along Lucia's chin to guide her up into a kiss. Chaste, lingering and sweet, he— means nothing by it, so he'd say, but just like this hug, perhaps he needed it. Still, he's quick to apologize after the fact.]
I'm— sorry, Lucia. I moved without thinking.
[It felt natural. Necessary, even.]
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She's so stunned that she misses her chance to reciprocate. After all, nobody's ever expressed any sort of interest or attraction to her until now. The idea that anyone could be might've been laughable before now, but it's hard to think otherwise, with his lips pressed warmly against hers.
He pulls away, and she's still staring at him, eyes wide, even though they're also puffy. She sniffles, trying to find the words to say. He...apologizes, and while she could be upset, she truly isn't. ]
...No, it's...it's okay. I. I didn't even do that right, though.
[ Now it's her turn to ask, without thinking: ]
I'd like a redo.
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...Of course.
[As you wish. Tipping his face to one side, he presses his lips to hers again, but he isn't as quick to withdraw. He allows her a moment to respond... no, to reciprocate.]
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She lets it linger a bit, though, because she's going to let Diluc decide when he wants to draw back. She has no idea what sort of rhythm goes into this, and she's cautious, not wanting to make things unpleasant. ]
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Only now has he been forced to slow down and consider the human side of himself, and perhaps that's why the Goddess brought him here, but he doesn't stop to consider that now. This isn't about that woman and her whims.
This is about... them now, he supposes, because it really has been years since Diluc indulged himself for his own sake. He's similarly uncertain when a kiss should begin or end, but he kisses her once, twice, thrice before he eases back. That's... good, isn't it? No, he ought to ask her.]
How was that?
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It was nice.
[ She's blushing more than she thinks she can handle, and while this certainly wasn't how she was expecting her first kiss to go, she's not complaining, either. There's something about Diluc that makes her feel heard and understood. He was probably one of the best candidates for this – though she's shocked she had any to begin with. ]
I...I'm sorry if it wasn't good on my part? It was my first.
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It was mine too. If you ask me, you were perfect.
[His first kiss. He never imagined it'd be something so memorable or meaningful. That goes to show just how out of touch with his own emotions he truly is. He's always enjoyed other people, engaging with them and spending quality time with them, but it look kissing Lucia to remind him of that fact.]
So please, don't apologize. Kissing you was a privilege.
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[ Despite how puffy her eyes are still, a smile manages to form on her lips. Lucia's not quite sure how she feels about Diluc, other than this was a pleasant experience, and that he's certainly someone she fully intends on sticking with for the foreseeable future. ]
Likewise, I...I'm really honored that I could be your first. Really.
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You're very kind, Lucia. If you wish to spend more time together in the future, please let me know, alright?
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[ She gives him a final grin before she slowly, gently pulls away. She's still smiling, even though she's not as up close and personal. She's pretty happy, despite crying earlier. ]
For now, though...more skating?
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Of course. It's been a long time since I've skated properly, but I'm enjoying myself more than I expected I would.
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She carefully places her hand in his. This is fine, right? Too bad they can't knock off multiple squares in one go. Either way, she's not going to say no. Diluc is such a sweet person. ]
I'm glad... It's been a fun time. Thank you, for letting me, um...cry, a little. I appreciate it.
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There's no need to thank me. It's better to express your feelings than to bottle them up.
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You're right about that. The last person who told me that was my best friend, so I'd like to extend the same sentiment to you. If that's okay, I mean.
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Of course. At the same time, I can't imagine many of my own problems will come into play on this island. I'd hate to trouble you with them regardless.
[But he can easily imagine a girl like Lucia insisting. She's already done well to lift his spirits from the funk he's been in ever since arriving here.]
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Well...I don't think I should force you, but please know that the offer is there. Anytime. And I would like to help...
[ Which is kind of a shitty attempt at persuading him, but that's that. ]
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Alright, then. But I can't promise you you'll enjoy listening to my woes. I have no shortage of them.
[And he really will tell her! Just. None of his vigilante shit. Maybe he's selfish, but he'd rather Lucia's impression of him remain good.]
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[ The list goes on and on, though Diluc's list is probably longer. She has some things she's not ready to discuss with anyone, but he'll hear it eventually. ]
Regardless, I'm very glad to have you on my side. It helps to know that you like talking to me.
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