18 ◦ [VIDEO]

[akingmuststand]

It may be unwise of us to use what stocks we have rashly, or to any excess, but Myhrta and Thereth both made prudent suggestions. Now that the housing is notably more secure, thanks to the efforts of the community, we may serve newcomers better by ensuring they are provided with basic supplies and a more composed welcome. Some arriving here quickly

Comments

[ofrebelling]

I was starting to think that you had forgotten about our little game.

[A sickness rushes over the young emperor's body upon seeing the prince's face, the subtle change in his expression from addressing the populous of Demeleier to addressing his younger brother. He dislikes the way he addressed the others, with a pleasant smile on his face, always his duty to please those around him. The warmth of Schneizel's pleasant smile is smothered by a sudden coldness in his eyes, the change insignificant to most... but not to Lelouch.

He carefully selects the mask he wishes to wear during their conversation, surveying his options as if they were displayed before him.

A small smile, his eyes sparkle with a bit of sarcasm.]

I've nothing on my schedule for tonight, but are you sure you can set aside time for your younger brother? It seems your plate is quite full at the moment.

[akingmuststand]

[His own expression turns almost fond at the simple hostility that ebbs so inexorably from his little brother. Over the feed, he meets his eyes, his voice still quite warm, with a note of teasing (mockery, perhaps?) that suggests challenge.]

Lelouch, you should know that I am always willing to make time. Especially for something long overdue.

[His smile grows a little more mirthful, his eyes holding some languid humour, as if for a private joke. He sets the king back down, and the tap of the piece onto the board itself is another little challenge.]

Is the inn acceptable?

[ofrebelling]

The inn? A neutral playing field is a splendid idea... I do enjoy the possibility of a live audience, it seems to make the game that much more challenging.

[The small smile remained, his mask still hiding the ever present animosity]

What time would be best for you? I don't want to interfere in your responsibilities and other engagements you may already have planned.

[akingmuststand]

[That and your penchant for theatrics, of course.

Knowing that in at least one future he loses to this brother, this boy, he cannot help but admire the speed and knowledge such a thing would have required. These smiles are a little show of it, hiding so much so well, as they do, but they are very much for other eyes.

Schneizel isn't fooled, naturally. But he is as indulgent as ever.]

Does seven suit your schedule?

[ofrebelling]

[His penchant for theatrics may play a small part in it, but the satisfaction that would come with defeating his brother in front of a crowd is the main draw when it comes to playing in front of an audience.]

Seven would be wonderful, Schneizel. I trust you'll be as prompt as ever?

[akingmuststand]

I hope you'd expect no less of me - especially when I'm so looking forward to it.

[ofrebelling]

As am I.

[A brief pause]

Excuse me for now, though, as I do have a few things I must attend to before we meet.

[akingmuststand]

[He smiles the older brother smile, the one Lelouch might remember from chess games in imperial gardens, torn apart and fastidiously pieced back together into something almost entirely different.

Almost, but not quite.]

Until then, Lelouch.

[And the commication is cut.]