Hand in Hand (Story)

Story Event: Valentine's Confections

Episode 3

Hand in Hand

Previous Quest

Painful Memories

Summary

Hildegarde has repaired her relationships with Ezelith and the others. While she's shy about it, she finally shows herself off in a Valentine's dress, which inspires the group to throw an impromptu dance party.

Dialogue

Get out here, Hildegarde! Oh! Uh, sorry about that, Prince. Guess I was kinda yelling there. But Hildegarde won't leave her room! ...Huh? You want to know if the two of us mended our fences? Yeah, we're better. She even apologized! I was pretty surprised about that. But there was something that was even MORE surprising... She wants to know how to enjoy special events like Valentine's! I had to think about that a little. I mean, Valentine's is all about sharing feelings with people, right? Anyway, I figured the important thing was for her to get amped-up about it. And the quickest way to do that is a little style shift, right! Boy, I really am a genius. Anyway, we went shopping and found a dress that should look REALLY nice on her. But when I told her to try it on and let me see it, she locked herself in her room. Rrrr! Come ON, Hildegarde! I-it's impossible. I can't... Why?! You're wearing the dress, right?! Y-yes, I have it on—which is EXACTLY why I cannot come out! GET OUT HERE ALREADY! N-no! Stop yanking on the door! Aaagh! Um... Hello, Euden. I... I... AAAUUUGH! Hildegarde, wait! Hildegaaarde! After her, Euden! Hildegarde, stop! Why are you running?! I can't let anyone see me dressed like this! But it looks so good on you! Will you please STOP already! *huff* *puff* There! Caught you! Guh... What is your problem? I just... That dress is so hot on you it's practically a fire hazard! Isn't that right, Euden? Euden... I'm...so embarrassed. Okay, what's all the hubbub over he— FLYIN' CHICKENS IN THE BARNYARD! Ohmigosh, Hildegarde, that dress! You look sooo pretty! I wondered if that could be you! You are always beautiful, but today you take it to rarefied air indeed! Tell me, for what reason are you clad so? Is there perchance a dance party afoot? Er...well...no. Diiiiid somebody say DANCE PARTY?! Heck yeah! Just lemme limber up... A dance party actually sounds like fun. C'mon, gramps! Let's do this thing! Teach me how to do the Halidom Trot or whatever old-man dance you know! I heard ya, kid, I heard ya! Now stop yankin' me around the floor! Cleo? Elisanne? I would be honored if you permitted me to serve as your escort. You want to escort both of us to the dance at the same time? Indeed. As you can see, the number of men here is insufficient otherwise. However, the thought of making a lady wait for an escort is absurd! The only one here with the moxey to escort two women at the same time...is moi. Now then, if I might have your acquiescence in this matter? ...Well, I suppose it's fine. Wait, it is?! HOWEVER! I will not dance with you. You may escort me, but nothing more. Well, if that is all we will be doing, I suppose I can go along as well. I am honored. Come then, ladies. C'mon, Notte! Let's cut some rug! Round and round I go! Wheeee! How have things come to this...? Dancing... I could never... ...Prince? Why do you ask for my hand? Wait. You wish to dance...with ME?! ...N-no! It's not that I don't WANT to dance. I see the others having fun and think that might be something I would enjoy also. But I am all left feet, as one says. Are you sure you wish to risk it? ...Then in that case, I would love to have this dance with you. Goodness me! It is clear you are royalty from the grace of your movements. Your adept lead is a boon to me. ...Yes, I am enjoying myself. But not just because of the dancing. For I am only here now as I am because of your guidance. You have my thanks for this. ...Hmm? You seem surprised. Valentine's is a time for sharing feelings with people important to you, is it not? I must put that teaching into practice. You've made me realize that wise words can be handed down through more than just the goddess or scripture... I'm quite sure you will teach me a great many other things in the future—and for this, I am forever grateful.