As Lumi prepared to return to the tributes' apartment, she meticulously arranged the freshly baked cookies in a hand woven basket, their sweet aroma filling the air with warmth and comfort.
Yet, as she caught sight of her reflection in the mirror, a wave of exhaustion washed over her.
Dark circles marred the delicate skin beneath her eyes, a stark reminder of the sleepless night she had endured.
Turning to her avox, she offered a weary smile. "Could you help me with my makeup, please? I want to look a bit more refreshed before I go."
With practiced hands, the avox set to work, expertly applying makeup to enhance Lumi's features and mask the telltale signs of weariness.
As she gazed at her reflection once more, Lumi couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the silent support of her avox, their unwavering dedication a comforting presence in her time of need.
With her appearance now restored to its usual radiance, Lumi gathered her resolve and set out for the tributes' apartment, determined to face whatever challenges awaited her with grace and composure.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
As Lumi entered the apartment, she noticed Lucian sitting in the living room engrossed in a book. With a soft smile, she set the basket of cookies on the table and removed her scarf, feeling the weight of exhaustion settling over her.
"Annora, would you like some cookies?" Lumi called out, her voice carrying a hint of warmth.
Annora walked into the living room, her eyes lit up at the offer, and she eagerly reached for a cookie, whispering a grateful "Thank you" as she took a bite.
Lumi's smile widened at Annora's appreciation, but her moment of joy was interrupted by Lucian's concerned voice.
"Are you okay?" Lucian's brow furrowed as he tapped under his eyes. "You look exhausted."
Lumi's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she realized the makeup could only do so much.
"Oh, it's nothing," she replied, trying to downplay her fatigue. "Just a long night of reading."
But Lucian's gaze remained fixed on her, his concern palpable in the air.
Lucian returned to his book, leaving Lumi to share a quiet moment with Annora. As she watched Annora enjoy the cookies, Lumi couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness thinking about how this could be the last moment of calmness they could have.
"Damian isn't here yet... he must've forgotten... but don't worry, I've arranged for the best stylist to work with you guys."
Lucian swiftly closed his book with a loud thud, leaning his head against the couch.
"Why on earth would we need that?"
"Well, today's the interview, and if you want sponsors, you both need to look your best," she explained calmly.
Lucian let out an incredulous scoff, but she chose not to engage further, silently hoping he'd cooperate, if not for his own sake, then for Annora's.
As if on cue, a gentle knock echoed through the room
As Lumi approached the door, her hand hesitated on the knob for a moment before she gently pushed it open.
To her surprise, standing on the other side was her aunt, adorned in chic attire and holding a sleek portfolio.
"Auntie!" Lumi exclaimed, her eyes widening in disbelief.
Her aunt beamed at her niece, her expression a mixture of pride and excitement. "I couldn't miss the opportunity to style your friends for such an important event."
Lumi's heart swelled with gratitude as she stepped aside to allow her aunt to enter. This unexpected turn of events filled the room with a renewed sense of anticipation.
"Guys, this is my aunt. She's here to help you look your absolute best for the interview."
"It's a pleasure to meet you all," Trigris said warmly, her gaze sweeping over the tributes.
"I'm thrilled to be here to assist you. Let's work together to ensure you make a lasting impression on the audience and potential sponsors."
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
After Trigris finished taking their measurements, she assured them that their costumes would be ready in time for the big event. With a sense of relief, the group settled down, eager to make the most of their time together.
As Trigris left to her workshop to alter the costumes she had prepared, Annora, Lumi, and Lucian found themselves gathered on the couch, discussing their upcoming interview.
Lucian, feeling a bit nervous about speaking in front of the cameras, looked to Lumi guidance.
With a reassuring smile, Lumi began to share some tips she had picked up from her own experiences. She emphasized the importance of speaking clearly and confidently, and encouraged Lucian to relax and be himself.
Lumi places her hand on Lucian's shoulder, her touch gentle yet firm, as she meets his gaze with unwavering determination.
"Those people... they'll feed on your insecurities, your worries, but... you can't let them win, Lucian"
Feeling Lucian's hand slowly arriving on top of hers, Lumi's heart skipped a beat. His reassuring squeeze was the most affectionate gesture he had ever made since they met, and it sent a wave of warmth coursing through her.
But as Lucian's touch lingered, Lumi felt her face growing hot, Lumi flinched back, withdrawing her hand as if it had been burned by his touch.
"Sorry," Lucian murmured, pulling his hand back, a hint of concern flickering in his eyes.
"I-I have to go," Lumi's voice was soft yet resolute as she began gathering her belongings, her movements swift but purposeful. Lucian and Annora exchanged puzzled glances, uncertainty clouding their expressions.
Before she reached the door, Lumi paused, her gaze lingering on her friends with a mix of urgency and determination. "I hope you guys realize how important this is," she said, her voice carrying a weight of significance.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Back at her house, Lumi took a moment to gather her thoughts as she prepared for the upcoming event. With a sense of purpose, she made her way to her dressing room, where her stylist awaited.
As she entered the room, Lumi was greeted by the sight of her stylist meticulously arranging a selection of outfits.
Dressed in a tight dark blue dress cinched at the waist with a bold belt. The puffy pink top, adorned with glittering designs, added a playful yet sophisticated flair to her ensemble.
Her hair, tied up in an elegant updo adorned with vibrant flowers, served as a reminder of the beauty and vitality she possessed. Each blossom symbolized her resilience, her ability to bloom even in the face of adversity.
As she ran her fingers over the fabric, memories of her younger days flooded her mind.
The soft pink reminded her of a time when she was more naive, more vulnerable. But now, as she stood before the mirror, Lumi knew she couldn't afford to be weak. Not when the lives of two precious souls depended on her strength and resilience.
As she gazed at her reflection, Lumi felt a surge of determination course through her veins. She may have been a different person in her younger days, but she had grown and evolved into someone stronger, someone capable of facing any challenge that came her way.
With a sense of purpose, Lumi straightened her shoulders and squared her jaw, ready to embrace whatever the future held.
Lumi's heart skipped a beat as Damian appeared behind her, his touch sending a jolt of surprise through her. His arms wrapped around her waist, and a soft kiss on her neck sent shivers down her spine.
"You weren't there, y'know," Lumi's voice wavered with emotion, her frustration bubbling to the surface.
"I needed you there... Annora needed you. Is this not important to you?"
With a trembling breath, Lumi fought to regain her composure, willing herself to push aside the torrent of emotions threatening to overwhelm her. She clenched her fists at her sides, a silent vow to remain strong in the face of adversity.
Though tears still shimmered in her eyes, Lumi refused to let them fall. She straightened her shoulders, lifted her chin, and faced the world with a steely resolve, determined to weather the storm within her without allowing a single tear to betray her.
"It's like you don't even care about her," Lumi's voice trembled with emotion as she spoke, her frustration and hurt palpable in the air.
"Lumi..." Damian's voice softened with concern as he moved to embrace her, his arms wrapping around her in a comforting gesture.
"It's just a school project," Damian continued gently, his words tinged with sympathy. "This is affecting you too much. You need a break."
"This is not just a school project!" Lumi's voice rose, a mixture of frustration and desperation lacing her words. She pushed Damian away from her.
"These are lives, Damian!" Lumi's eyes blazed with intensity, her hands trembling with emotion.
"Children are being sent to their death!"
With a deep breath, Lumi steadied herself, determined to persevere despite Damian's dismissive attitude. She refused to let his ignorance derail her mission, knowing that the lives of innocent children hung in the balance.
Turning away from Damian, Lumi took a moment to gather her thoughts. She knew that she couldn't rely on him for support, but she also couldn't let his indifference deter her from taking action.
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Sorry for taking like 20 years to update 😭I just took a break to work on a Lucy Gray costume and then I just never found the motivating to come back and write.
Also has anyone watched Tearsmith? I read the book before the film (which is so much better!!) and I haven't been able to stop thinking about the movie or Rigel (❁'◡'❁)