[pfsb] practicing forms and signs

[lightamidchaos]

He has much to do, much to consider, and at times like this he finds that it can be both useful and soothing to practice sword forms. In addition, he has been working on perfecting the Igni sign, and this will be an excellent opportunity to continue his practice.

As a result, Lan Wangji can be found near the lake at present, working with Bichen and with the occasional flicker of light from his hand.

Comments

[lightamidchaos]

"Through here," Lan Wangji tells him. "Contact with the far west is extremely infrequent. We have some items in our library that were brought east by enterprising traders, but that is a great rarity. Our own writings are far more common."

[a_reckless_wind]

Laurence nods. "This matches my own experience," he observes. "Currently, there is very little relationship between Europe and the far East."

He knows Hammond hopes to invoke change in this arena, but it seems to him likely to be a slow process.

[lightamidchaos]

"Mn." He is not sure how to ask the next question, or even if he should.

"It must be very different for you. In the Emperor's court," he attempts.

[a_reckless_wind]

"Different, yes," Laurence agrees, appreciating the younger man's delicacy of wording.

"But illuminating. And Temeraire now has the opportunity to associate with members of his own family and further his own education; his happiness at our stay brings me all the satisfaction I require."

[lightamidchaos]

He thinks of Jin Guangshan; thinks of Lung Tien Xiang's mention of Prince Yongming.

"Illuminating," he agrees. "I imagine so." His expression softens a little, then. "I am glad that he is happy."

[a_reckless_wind]

"I, too."

This he can say with all the heartfelt sincerity he feels; he himself has felt somewhat lonely, with Temeraire spending so much time in the company of his mother and Mei, but he cannot begrudge his dear companion even a second of the happiness he has found.

And he may take comfort that, should the worst happen, Temeraire will be able to live, if not happily for the first while, comfortably and in all likelihood contentedly as well. "Had his egg remained in China, his life would have been... considerably different. His curiosity and interest are more than understandable; they are right and natural."

[lightamidchaos]

"Of course," he agrees, and tips his head toward the common room.

"Perhaps you may find this to be a place of respite. When needed."

[a_reckless_wind]

Laurence's rare smile touches the corners of his mouth once more, and he bows his head in acknowledgment.

"Perhaps," he says. "But my crew cannot all join me through the door. It is my duty to remain with them so long as I am Captain."

To have a place of refuge solely for his own self feels like a luxury bordering on disloyalty. Naturally there are some discrepancies between the ranks, but he is reminded sharply of long days at sea, becalmed or hungry or cold or afraid, where every man aboard could be certain at least that he was not alone, that the whole of the ship's contingent shared these basic similarities with him.

And as Captain, of course, it is even more necessary that he show himself not above the small iniquities of their life in Peking. "But I will endeavor to join Temeraire when next he travels here."

[lightamidchaos]

"Mn," he agrees, bowing his own head in return. It is understanding and approbation in one. Of course such a man as the celestial finds acceptable as companion would hold to honor and duty.

"I will be glad to see you both. As will Wei Ying."

[a_reckless_wind]

"I am certain Temeraire will feel the same," Laurence tells him. "As will I. I am only sorry not to make Wei Wuxian's acquaintance today as well; pray give him my regards."

[lightamidchaos]

"I shall. His own duty has him elsewhere at present," he says. "He will be sorry to have missed you."

[a_reckless_wind]

Laurence shakes his head. "Duty before pleasure," he says. "And I'm certain it will be a very great pleasure, both to make his acquaintance and to further yours."

So saying, however, he rises from the table, the slight reluctance he feels shouted down by the knowledge that even if time moves differently or not at all, he should not abandon his crew for an indeterminate amount of time. "Forgive me, but speaking of this reminds me that I must return. You have truly been a most gracious host, Hanguang-jun. I thank you for the refreshment and conversation."

[lightamidchaos]

He rises as well and offers a polite bow.

"I am pleased to have had the opportunity. Go well, and please give my regards to the celestial one."

[a_reckless_wind]

Laurence answers this bow with one of his own, a respectful dip of his head and shoulders, bending at the waist.

"Rest assured I shall," he tells the younger man. "Until we meet again."

So saying, he turns to the door to pass through, his hand on the pommel of his sword as he marshals both thought and emotion for the world he will once more face.