#[ hey great going Alfonse ]

[crimsonretainer]

His is one of the first faces she seeks.

There is no doubt in her mind that it needs to be. Despite the abundance of calls and words to be exchanged, she makes her way where it is needed first. Widened eyes and opened lips invite concern to settle upon Edelgard's face as she approaches. It's displeasing how worn down he appears as she stands tall near the form of her retainer. "Hubert," she says. "Did something happen? What did you uncover? Tell me at once."

Whatever the case, she doesn't doubt it must have been something mighty. She looks him in the eyes, strong as ever.

As the bottom of her axe brushes the ground, her fingers trace its side. "There are people among this crowd with indiscernible intentions. I trust you've been diligent, but.. Remain cautious." As the whisper falls from her mouth, she quickly fixes herself proper. "If you need anything, you must only speak it."

HE THINKS AND THINKS OF HOW TO BROACH THE SUBJECT, to speak a name and a fact unto the world that he knows to be buried in her past. It's a vicious loop of memory now, a younger him running through the wilds outside Enbarr, following the road to Fearghus despite the relentless pursuit of his father's hounds. The first life taken with dregs of fledgling magic in his grasp. He remembers the girl returning with ashen white hair at their hands, the anger and the rage that consumed the room in a sea of flame he could barely contain. She had been barely older than Fourteen when the plans had been hatched, knifes driven into the heart of every church with Garreg Mach as it's shining jewel of crested corruption. He's seen it all in Enbarr, how nobles use their children before casting them aside, a father's mistreatment merely because his daughter was destined to be more than a trophy wife and the effects that lasted to the day. A songstress looked down upon merely due to the class she had no choice to be born in. A father so intent on his son being a weapon that he trained day and night until magic is more potent than the sharpest sword.

Still, his eyes give everything away, which is all too telling when that singular cursed name is leaving his mouth. "Cornelia." A sigh, filled with anger and hatred for the last piece of the puzzle that has finally slipped into place. "The last piece of the puzzle is Cornelia... Fearghus's court mage, Their trump card." Eight pieces that have finally clicked into place, Aegir, Gerth, Bergliez, Hevring, Varley, Vestra, Arundal and Cornelia. Names and targets each and every one, all responsible for the tragedy that had befallen her family and their great nation.

"The board is now set, Your Highness." Words like thunder and visage masked with anger, a guise long held pulled back like the curtain of a stage.

[cherry-flavoured-thot]

Acacia - a hidden relationship

Sharena knows something weird is going on between you and Alfonse, but she can’t quite put her finger on it. As she stands in Anna's office, she can't help but feel the need to voice her pondering.

“Hey Commander, have you noticed how much time Alfonse and Summoner have been spending together lately?” Of course, she could just brush it off as the two of you both throwing yourselves headfirst into work. After recent events, it wouldn’t be strange for you both to be extra diligent in both defense and offense alike. But still… there’s more to it, she just knows it. Based on how Anna’s expression turns from one of contemplation to something downright impish. It’s safe to say, she also has her own suspicions.

“You know, now that you mention it, I did ask Alfonse if there was anything he needed to tell me.” Anna had asked the question as the Commander; it shouldn’t fall to just the two of you take on the problems of several realms. She had asked the question with a great deal of concern and sincerity, only to become perplexed when Alfonse seemed to be at a loss for words. “He started to panic, and I guess at the time I didn’t really think about it, because I just thought he was really stressed.” And in fairness to Anna, he was stressed, going through event after event in his life with little reprieve is in fact quite damaging to the psyche. Alfonse, scrambled through his brain to decide on a response to her. She had followed up with expressing her concerns that he and Summoner might be overworking themselves too greatly.

“And what did he say?” Sharena is leaning forward in anticipation, goading the Commander to continue on with her retelling.

“Well, he assured me that they weren’t overworking themselves and he promised if there was anything I could do to help that he’d ask. And off he went.” In fact, he almost ran out of the room. The two women place their hands on their chins, contemplating the strange behaviour. Sharena is the first to speak, with a cheeky grin.

“Do you think they’re together?” Before Anna even has a chance to share her thoughts, there’s a knock on the door, followed by the door opening. You enter holding against your chest a bundle of papers.

“Hey Anna, hey Sharena, look I just needed-“ neither can contain their looks of suspicion as you close the door behind you. “Why are you both looking at me like that?” You’re perplexed, even more so when Sharena starts to grin.

“You know Summoner you sure have been spending a lot of time with my brother.” There’s no visible reaction from you. Your brows are still furrowed as you try to understand what you’ve wandered into.

“I value his advice and counsel.” Your answer is curt, and almost disappointing from how little it gives away. But the two press on, ever determined.

“So that’s why you spend every chance you get together?” Sharena questions.

“It’s important for us to be on the same page.”

“Even late at night when you’re sneaking into his room?” Anna thinks she’s got you there, as you visibly freeze on the spot. You are quick to rectify this momentary pause by outright brushing off heir accusations.

“Somethings can’t wait until morning. While we sleep our enemies move.” The two almost want to sigh about how little you gave them to work with.  You press the papers you were cradling onto the desk. “Speaking of our enemies, I wanted you both to just give me your opinion on this new training regimen. Alfonse and I have been in talks with some of the more knowledge heroes about…” you’ve dismissed anymore queries from either of them completely, jumping into the conversation about training.

For a moment neither of the two women are sure if it’s intentional to dodge any further questioning, or you really have thrown yourself so deep into your responsibilities that you haven’t even given it a second thought how improper things might appear to others.

Although… you do seem to be more focused more on objects in the room then the inquisitive stare from either of them. And that enough is to continue their suspicions further.

“Alright, thank you both for your time. I’ll let some of the Heroes know we are changing some of their training accordingly.” You’re about to take your leave when you notice Anna’s facial expression change to a smirk.

“And let me guess you’re going straight to Alfonse?”

“If there’s something you need to know you should just ask outright.”

“Come on Summoner are you Alfonse together? Can you please tell us?” Sharena whines, and now it’s your turn to grin at the pair.

“Oh yes, we spend a great deal of time together. It’s the best way to get work done.” The two exchange a look, you use it as an excuse to beeline straight to the door. By the time they object to your sudden exit, you’re practically out the door.

“Hey, wait that doesn’t answer the question!”

“Sorry guys but I really have to go, bye!” The door slams shut, and your footsteps quickly dart down the hall until they disappear. Sharena frowns, throwing her arms up in exasperation.

“There is no way they’re not together. They just don’t want to tell us!” Anna nods. That would explain so much about the sudden strange behaviour, not to mention the strange staring contests between you and Alfonse during the War Council meetings.

“Yeah, I agree. But why haven’t they told us?” The two make verbal noises of contemplation, trying to rack their brains about why you both would be keeping it a secret. Of course, there are very reasonable explanations, but Sharena can’t help but latch on to a particular train of thought the second it appears in her brain.

“Maybe Alfonse is waiting to propose first?” Both are visibly excited at the idea. Sharena, at the thought of you officially becoming part of her family and the never-ending jokes she can make to her brother about him scolding her about not befriending the Heroes as they’d need to go back to their own worlds. Anna can hear dollar signs in her mind as someone is going to need plan the wedding and arrange the venue. Who better than your dear Commander? For a reasonable fee of course!

Meanwhile, as you’re walking away from Anna’s office, you run into Alfonse along the way who was heading to see Anna and Sharena for a different matter. “Unless you’d like to be interrogated about our relationship status I wouldn’t go there right now.” He raises a brow, only to then follow it up with a defeated sigh.

“Are we really that bad at keeping secrets?”

“Anna made a comment about me sneaking into your room late at night.” His cheeks visibly flush at that. He brings a closed fist up to his mouth and lets out a cough to regain some composure.

“Perhaps I’ll speak with them at a later time.”

“Good idea.” You nod continuing in your direction further away from Anna’s office. It doesn’t help the rumours that he instead trails back beside you, his hand hovering over yours begging to be held.

You really are awful at keeping secrets. Given how you don’t even hesitate to take his hand in yours.

[memoria-99]

Wizardess Heart: Someone: I'd die for you

Klaus: Good. Now get out of my sight.

Azusa: Huh... thanks, you make things easier.

Zeus: Of course you would. I'm so great after all!

Elias: Well yeah...

Leslie: You would?

Hiro: Whatever... but you'd better not. There's no point in dying for me.

Lucious: Hmm, not bad. Wait you're not really going to do it, right?

Alfonse: Don't even think of it, okay?

Randy: Whoa what're you talking about! Don't!

Liz: Never!

Luca: Wow you'd really do it for me? Impressive!

Guy: Hey that's cool.

Sigurd: I'm honored.

Caesar: Haha, then I'd die for you. How does that sound?

Yukiya: No you don't have to. If someone must die I would.

Joel: Are you stupid?

Leon: Die...? Why?

Cerim: You're saying weird things.

[robynmizore]

Redemption Chapter 15:

Yours To Tame

Takumi’s reflection gazed steadily back at him as he scrutinized himself in the mirror. His hair was done up in its usual ties, so he was fully confident in that. But it was the outfit he was having doubts about. It was a black, gold, and silvery purple Hoshidan style swordsmaster outfit worn only by nobles, or princes in his case. The outfit was strongly reminiscent of his late father, King Sumeragi, and while he’d dressed in plenty of kimonos for formal occasions, he’d never worn one himself. 

I wonder if Father is watching me now.. or if he approves of my decision.

Things would be vastly different after tonight, and Takumi was determined to look the part. 

“You look beautiful, my lady.” Flora murmured as she assisted Robyn with putting on the long, silver dress, sounding a little envious. “But must you insist on wearing your cloak? I’m sure you have a lovely face that would complement such a dress.”

”I wish not to.” the Summoner replied politely. 

She had her own plans for the ball, the prospect making her heart flutter a bit. 

“Of course.” 

Flora’s hands rested gently on her shoulders as they gazed into the mirror together, an almost motherly look in her eyes. The maid hesitated before speaking. 

“..Are you meeting with Lord Takumi?” 

Robyn was relieved that her hood concealed her blush, and she forced herself not to flinch as she replied. 

“Yes.”

A small smile made its way to Flora’s lips as she turned to leave. 

“..You’ll do great.”

The flush only intensified as the door closed softly, and Robyn slowly let down her hood. The image that greeted seemed to be taken straight out of a fairytale. Her azaleas glowed gently even in the morning lights, her violet eyes bright and full of expectation.

Things will be different after tonight. But.. in a good way I hope. 

In this moment, she felt truly beautiful. But it wasn’t herself she was trying to impress. A subtle knock at her door drew her attention, and the goddess’s eyes lit up as she quickly flipped up her hood and grabbed the sheet music off her desk. Niles wore his infamous smirk as she opened the door. 

“Hey, little lady. Ready for tonight?” he drawled, and Robyn giggled softly as she handed over the papers. 

“Niles.. I’m the same height as you.”

”Not quite.” he bantered back, looking over the music. “Quite the song you’ve got there. I can already guess who this is for.”

”..You sure the musicians will be able to learn it in time and keep it a surprise?”

”I think you underestimate my craft.” the thief teased as he slipped them under his cloak. “They won’t hear a peep about it until the time is right. Especially..”

He leaned forward to whisper in her ear. 

“..Your precious Prince Takumi.”

Robyn had to fight to keep her composure as he straightened up again. While Niles had his usual “up to no good” look in his eye, there was something else there too. It reminded her of the looks Takumi gave her sometimes. 

“Anyways, I’m off.” Niles said, turning away with a casual wave, tossing the last words over his shoulder as he departed. 

“Oh.. and don’t worry about the music. Alfonse got the best of the best for Askrian musicians. They’ll learn it in time.”

Niles watched as the Summoner’s door closed behind her, then turned to give the music a once over again.

I’m yours to tame, huh? These are some pretty passionate lyrics. It wouldn’t take a detective to figure out who those are directed at.

A small sigh escaped him as he resumed walking. 

I had hoped that you would be mine, but it would seem your heart is not mine to steal. Ah well..

The Summoner may not be his to keep, but he could at least be sure she was with someone who would look after her. 

“..Are the others downstairs already?” Robyn whispered as Niles hopped down from his perch beside her. 

“..Yep. Not a soul up here. You’re good to go.”

”..Is.. is he?”

Niles peered carefully around the corner.

”Yep. He just arrived. ..You sure about this? You’re about to make quite the entrance. No taking it back later.”

”Yes.” Robyn replied with conviction.

While slightly nervous, she’d never felt more sure of anything in her life. Her white-haired, eye-patch wearing companion chuckled. 

“I’ll admit.. I was tempted to ask to sneak a peek as payment for all this, but seeing how important this is to you, I’ll restrain myself. But if you really wanna thank me.. promise you won’t back out.”

”I won’t. Thank you for everything Niles. I.. I won’t forget this.”

”Y-yeah..”

For a split second, the man Robyn had thought was unshakable actually looked.. embarrassed. She stifled a giggle as he turned to leave. 

“Alright, I’ll give the musicians the signal. Good luck out there.”

The thief vanished as quickly as he’d appeared, leaving the Summoner standing alone. Robyn took a deep breath to ease to her nerves, letting it out slowly as she let her hood fall to the floor by her feet. 

Okay.. here we go!

Where is she..? 

Takumi scanned the crowd with a frown, looking for a familiar black hooded figure. It wasn’t like Robyn to be late, and her absence only made the butterflies in his stomach flutter harder. If she didn’t show up, he didn’t know how he’d feel. 

A sudden gasp rippling through the crowd caused the Hoshidan’s head to snap up suddenly. Were they under attack? All attention seemed to be trained on the top of the stairs, and Takumi looked up to see what had succeeded in capturing the attention of the entire room, the sight that greeted him stealing his breath away. There, stood Robyn, her long flowing pink hair cascading down her body in waves, her azalea flowers more radiant than ever. Even the lights seemed dim in her presence.

She revealed her face?!

But what did this mean? Spellbound, Takumi watched as she slowly descended the stairs, her dress billowing out like a silver cloud. When her identity as Goddess of Fate had been revealed, Takumi was in disbelief, but now he could believe it. His body seemed to move on its own as he wove his way through hoards of people, the crowd seeming to fade in the background until all Takumi could see was her and those beautiful violet eyes, full of serenity, until she at last reached them. 

“Robyn.. I..”

Now that he’d reached her, the Hoshidan seemed lost for words as he reached out to caress her cheek gently. To his delight, she leaned into his touch.

”You.. you look beautiful..” he whispered. 

Robyn gazed back at him, the warmth in her eyes making his heart flutter as she traced the shoulder of his swordsmaster outfit lightly.

”And you look so handsome.” she murmured back. 

Commander Anna’s voice rang out above the startled whispers of the crowd.

”We will now begin our slow dance. Everyone partner up!”

That’s it! 

Seizing the opportunity, Takumi quickly found his voice. 

“Robyn.. Will you please accept this dance with me?”

The Summoner’s eyes lit up at his request, and Takumi was unable to keep the smile from spreading across his face as she turned and presented her bouquet of glowing azalea flowers to Elise, the Nohrian princess gasping in delight as she took them. Takumi led Robyn by the hand to the dance floor where the other heroes were gathered. 

“..Takumi?”

”Yes?”

His eyes met the familiar violet orbs, that very violet gaze the same ones he’d fallen in love with over and over again. Robyn was his guiding light, and having her here now with her hood down, gazing at him with such fondness was more than he could ever ask for.

”The song that they’re about to play is mine. I.. I wrote it for you actually.” she murmured as she stepped back to face him, eyes soft. “These are my feelings for you in song form. Please listen to them..”

Heart pounding, too stunned to speak, he simply nodded. As the sound of violins echoed through the ballroom, Takumi and the Summoner simultaneously bowed to each other. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Caledori beaming proudly as she gave him a thumbs up, and a small smile made its way on the prince’s lips. Night and day he’d trained in secret, just for this moment. Just for her. And for the first time ever, confidence instead of nerves filled him. Takumi truly believed in himself and this moment as he secured his arm around Robyn’s waist, taking her hand in his as the sound of instruments filled the air. He was moved by the intensity of her violet eyes as they gazed deeply into his own and her song filled the air. 

www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8unBXPn/

“I summoned you, please come to me

Don’t bury thoughts that you really want 

I fill you up, drink from my cup 

Within me lies what you really want 

Come.. lay me down!

Cause you know this 

Cause you know this sound!”

Takumi only had eyes for Robyn as they glided across the dance floor. There were other couples dancing as well, but none seemed to shine as brightly as the Hoshidan prince and the Summoner. 

“Is that really the Summoner?! She’s sooo pretty!” he heard Elise exclaim.

”What a lovely ball gown..” Sumia sighed dreamily, and it wouldn’t take a diviner to know she was imagining herself in the Summoner’s place, with a certain blue haired prince. 

“In the middle of the night,

In the middle of the night!

Just call my my name, I’m yours to tame

In the middle of the night,

In the middle of the night, 

I’m wide awake, I crave your taste.

All night long!

Till morning comes..

I’m getting what’s mine

You gon’ get yours, oh no-ooh

In the middle of the night,

In the middle of the night 

Oh..”

The violins blended beautifully with her voice in perfect harmony, Robyn’s emotions hitting Takumi like a wave. It left him breathlessly light, like his body was made of the shimmers that made up Robyn’s ball gown. There was a brief lull in the vocals, offering the prince a swift respite as he calmed his fluttering heart. 

“These burning flames, these crashing waves 

Wash over me like a hurricane

I’ll captivate, you’re hypnotized 

Feel powerful..

But it’s me again!

Come.. lay me down! 

‘Cause I know this

’Cause I know this sound!”

Takumi was indeed hypnotized, completely under her spell. He wished this moment would last forever, just him and her, spinning across the dance floor like it belonged to them.

”In the middle of the night,

In the middle of the night

Just call my name, I’m yours to tame! 

In the middle of the night, 

In the middle of the night 

I’m wide awake, I crave your taste

All night long!

Till morning comes..

I’m getting what’s mine,

You gon’ get yours, oh no-ooh

In the middle of the night 

In the middle of the night, oh..”

Round and round they spun to the beat of the violins, through the garden where he first heard her sing and saw her face. Robyn’s dress seemed to move with her, the glowing azaleas in her hair and dress’s waistline looking even more ethereal in the moonlight, and Takumi wondered if this was all but a blissful dream. When he first saw her face, he could have only dared to hope she’d be in his arms like this, a rush of emotions welling up in his chest. 

Robyn.. I want you to stay by my side forever..

”..Never again will you cry here alone.” he vowed fervently, and the warmth in her gaze told him more than words ever could. 

“And just call on me..

Ah.. 

Just call my name..

Like.. you.. mean.. it! 

In the middle of the night, 

In the middle of the night!”

As the song hit its peak, Takumi put both arms around the goddess’s waist, lifting her into the air and spinning her in a circle above his head. 

“Just call my name,

I’m yours to tame!”

As soon as her feet touched the ground, he lifted one arm above her head and spun her, her dress rippling gracefully as it moved with her. Takumi’s heart was singing, his cheeks flushed, and gods was her smile infectious. 

“In the middle of the night,

In the middle of the night 

I’m wide awake, I crave your taste

All night long!

Till morning comes..

I’m getting what’s mine, you gon’ get yours oh-ooh

In the middle of the night 

In the middle of the night 

Oh-oh..”

The enchanting and so beautifully intimate song at last came to an end, and they stood facing each other in the gardens. Despite the silence, Takumi felt completely at ease, not a trace of awkwardness. It was Robyn who broke the silence first. 

“..I never realized dancing with someone else could feel like that.”

Her voice was light and breathy, and when he answered, he sounded the same. 

“Yeah..”

”I didn’t even know you could dance like that. I’m impressed.”

”I had Caledori teach me.” Takumi admitted. “I.. I trained day and night.. so I could dance with you.”

”Really? That’s amazing.”

Her violet eyes lit up at the admission, and the Hoshidan actually felt proud of himself. Her eyes shifted to the window and she let out a quiet gasp. 

“Look, Takumi! They decorated the inside with lanterns!”

Curious, he turned to see the halls beautifully decorated with glowing lanterns in every shade, straight out of a fairytale. He was startled from the dreamy thoughts creeping into his mind as Robyn suddenly grabbed his hand, pulling him eagerly towards the hall. 

“Come on! Let’s walk though it!”

”Slow down! It’s not going anywhere!” he chuckled. 

He had to admit, there was something special about having her hand in his in an environment like this. The lanterns danced beautifully around them, Robyn’s silver gown glimmering under them like a sea of stars. 

“That really is a beautiful dress. Did you have Flora make it?”

”No actually.. I made it myself. I must have liked sewing in my past or something. It just came so naturally. I couldn’t believe it when it was finished.”

”Really? All by yourself?”

She nodded in confirmation, leaving the prince stunned, but impressed. The Summoner really was full of surprises. Something outside caught his eye. 

Perfect..

”Hey.. they even decorated the balcony.” he said casually. “You uh.. you want to go look?”

Robyn’s violet gaze lit up and she nodded quickly, and they walked hand in hand outside. Takumi noticed she kept rubbing the side of his hand with her thumb occasionally, making his skin tingle. The lights of the village shone in the distance, and the lanterns outside emitted small fragments of light floating around like fireflies. 

Must be magically enhanced.. Takumi mused as Robyn let go of his hand and leaned against the balcony railing with both elbows. 

“This is a truly beautiful night.. almost like a dream..” she murmured. “If so.. then may I never wake.”

The iridescent fabric of her gown glowed brightly in the moonlight, a celestial light emitting from the flowers that adorned her waist. The dragon necklace he’d given her hung from her neck like a precious jewel. He’d never seen her without it, and even now she was wearing it, and the knowledge made his chest swell with affection and his heart thudded in his chest. This was it. This was the moment. Things would never be the same after tonight. 

“Robyn I.. I need to tell you something.”

Encased in silver, shining like a moonbeam, she turned to him, her lovely pale face flushed with happiness. 

“Yes?”

Encouraged, Takumi stepped forward to caress her cheek lightly with his hand. 

“This.. may not be easy for you to hear but I..”

Just say it already!

”..When I was first summoned here, I was still struggling to accept myself. Like you I was thrown into a world where I knew no one. All I had with me was my bow, and my status as second prince of Hoshido. I was so cold and distant.. and you still accepted me. You went out of your way to make me feel at home. Like.. I belonged. From the moment I met you, you’ve been my guiding light. The star in the distance leading me home and giving me hope..”

The Summoner was listening with rapt attention, soaking in every word that tumbled from his mouth. 

“I was broken, lost, and alone.. until I met you. I know you’re the Goddess of Fate and I’m just the second prince of Hoshido.”

His hand dropped from her cheek. 

“I.. I have no right to feel this way. But I can’t deny my feelings any longer!”

His hand brushed his pocket to make sure it was still there. It was, so determinedly, he pressed on. 

“I love you Robyn. So much so that the thought of being apart from you tears me in half! Even if I must abandon my humanity and become a god, even if I have to walk to the ends of the earth and back, to the realms beyond, then so be it!”

The passion in his voice was rising steadily, and Takumi took a quick breath to compose himself, before reaching into his pocket to pull out the ring. It glowed pale in the moonlight, the crystal white azalea flower that rested upon it making the goddess gasp from the dazzling light. 

“T-Takumi that’s..”

”Yes. It’s a wedding ring. I.. had it specially made for you. Will you marry me, Robyn?”

”Will you marry me, Robyn?”

The confession was so heartfelt and so beautifully sincere, she was rendered speechless for a moment as tears welled in her eyes. She’d planned to confess to him herself, but he’d beaten her to it. And so perfectly too. Unable to resist, she reached up to caress his cheek. Hope sparked in his gaze, the hand holding the ring still extended towards her. 

“I love you too.. Takumi. So.. so much. You’re strong, brave, honest, and beautiful inside and out. With you by my side, my heart is at last at peace. I have hope for the future. So I will happily marry you and stay by your side as your wife forever. ..On one condition.”

“..Name it.”

”I.. I want you to try and accept yourself and see yourself the way that I do. As a strong, capable, and wonderful man. You are worthy Takumi. And I want you to know just how much I cherish you.”

The Hoshidan’s eyes brimmed with emotion as he gazed back at her. 

“..That’s all you ask of me? That’s all I have to do to be yours forever?” Robyn nodded, and the joy that lit his gaze was enough to melt her heart. “You’ve got it. I’ll.. I’ll try my hardest to see myself the way that you do. For your sake.. and my own. Here’s to our future!” 

With those final words, he slipped the ring onto her finger, his arms encircling her waist. Robyn knew she belonged in those arms. She was designed to be held by him. 

“I was in love with you before I even knew what you looked like..” he breathed.

A shooting star blazed across the sky, stealing her attention briefly.

Was that Mikoto? Is she watching us now, knowing that her son is happy? I’m so glad.. I could keep my promise to her.

When she turned back, Takumi was gazing at her with unwavering intensity in his reddish amber eyes. Then slowly, he leaned in. 

No interruptions this time.. Robyn’s eyes drifted closed as his lips brushed against her’s. 

Shyly at first, then deepened, his nose brushing her’s as he pulled her close. Forceful, yet gentle, her hand resting softly against his chest until at last it ended, leaving them both breathless. Takumi leaned his forehead against her’s with a quiet laugh. 

“I.. I can’t believe we just did that..”

”..Want to do it again then? So you believe it?” Robyn teased, causing the prince to flush scarlet. 

But it didn’t stop him from kissing her again, more firmly, and Robyn felt like she was losing herself in the touch of his lips. Every movement. Every breath. Every heartbeat. When he finally pulled back, he was gazing at her with such intensity as he played with a lock of her hair. 

“Robyn.. I.. I don’t want to be apart from you tonight. Or any night. Will you spend the night with me?”

”I don’t wish you be apart from you even for a moment.” she murmured, accepting his outstretched hand. 

The walk back to the prince’s room brought back a flood of heartwarming memories. The last time they’d spent the night together there, it was when he’d seen her face for the first time and had vowed to reunite her with her family and offered to take her back to Hoshido to look after her if she didn’t have a home of her own to return to. Robyn’s mind buzzed with dreamy thoughts as the door closed softly behind them. Takumi faced her solemnly, looking even more ethereal under the moonbeams that danced though his window. She was back in his arms in an instant, his vibrant hazel gaze a mix of love and something else. It was an unfamiliar emotion. One that made her want to kiss him again.

”Robyn..” he whispered, his forehead pressed again her’s, his eyes never leaving her own: “I want you. So much so my heart aches. But this isn’t just intimacy for me. This is the love I feel for you in physical form. If this is wrong.. tell me now and I won’t speak of it again. I’d never forgive myself for hurting you.”

”No.. it isn’t wrong. If anything.. this feels so right.”

Takumi’s finger traced lightly down her neck in a long, drawn out touch that made Robyn shut her eyes briefly in bliss, awakening an emotion she didn’t even know she had. She opened her eyes as he moved his hands lower, her dress and his swordsmaster outfit slipping off with ease. The longing in his gaze was clear now, and Robyn returned it, without a trace of nervousness. Lost in each other’s touch and unable to resist, the couple fell against the soft bed, Takumi hovering over her as he leaned in for another long kiss. The glowing moon bore sole witness to the soft, lingering touches, bare skin, and lovingly whispered words between gasps of passion that lasted well into the night. 

AN: Don’t worry.. we won’t get too explicit. Gotta keep that T rating after all and it wouldn’t take a detective to figure out what they were doing.  I don’t really have plans to write any explicit content of those two anyways because I feel like it would take away from the real point of this scene.. which is the portrayal of their relationship. I wanted to portray a beautiful, heathy relationship in all aspects that anyone could read. Throughout my life all my relationships have either been toxic or straight up abusive, so writing a relationship like this has been extremely validating for me. At last.. the beautiful Takubyn ship has sailed! ..In more ways than we thought 😅😂 Anyways.. stay tuned for next chapter and more artwork coming out December 31st ;3 

~Robyn 

[glamjrwi]

a really really foggy morning on the ship and gillion is excited because the air is so full of water

Thank you!! This prompt is adorable and I might have given it a little bit of the boys cursed energy lmao but I think it works hopefully. Here's the ao3 link too

Jay yawned as she slumped against the kitchen counter. It was a quiet morning. She was hiding inside because a low fog had rolled in and she did not need her hair to get any worse. She would have to go up eventually, as navigation would require her direct attention until the sky came back. Alfonse had been kind enough to drop the anchor for a little while so she could grab some breakfast first.

She could hear a familiar and loud smack through the wall and she instinctively grabbed an extra jar of juice from the pantry. The day never truly started until Gillion’s barrel lid hit the floor in the morning.

“Good morning, Jay!” Gillion greeted her enthusiastically and he marched into the kitchen. He was followed by a drowsy looking Chip.

“Hey, Gil.” She slid the jar of juice over to him with a nod. He nodded back gratefully.

“Hey, can I get one?” Chip asked.

“Get it yourself,” she said without looking at him.

“Good morning to you too,” he grumbled very loudly as he passed her, she smiled to herself.

“I’ve noticed the ship has stopped this morning,” Gil said. He stared at the deck, like he’d noticed just now. “Do you think there’s something wrong?”

“Oh no, everything’s fine, we just have to go slow today,” she let herself pause for dramatic effect, watching Gillion’s face closely as he started to take a drink. “Because . . . you know, it’s really foggy today.”

Gillion slammed his juice on the table instantly. He stared at her wide eyed and leaned in, ginning. “Is it true, Jay?”

“Very true, it’s already been fucking up my hair.” She pulled some of it up to showcase.

It was good enough for him because in a flash he was booking it for the stairs. His barely touched juice was forgotten. She heard Chip huff in amusement beside her. She chuckled to herself and followed Gillion. Chip joined her, but not before stealing Gillion’s juice.

When they reached the deck, Gillion was already standing on the handrail. His arms were outstretched to the fog, like he wanted to give it a big hug. The dampness in the air immediately clung to her baby hairs. She smudged them out of her face as well as she could. It was another day she felt just a little jealous of Gillion’s undersea hair. He’d never know the struggle.

“Isn’t it wonderful!” Gillion yelled into the white void. “It is just like if the rain was evenly spaced out but not enough that it’s just the sea all over again. Maybe instead of having to destroy the land and turning it into more sea I could just make it densely covered in fog and that’d be wet enough? I think that’s it, I found the loophole to my extremely distressing internalized moral dilemma.”

“That’s great Gil,” Chip approached him, two half drunk juices in his hands, “but have you ever thought about if you could breathe with your gills and lungs in fog at the same time?”

Gillion’s head snapped to look at him intensely. “Chip, you’re a genius. If I intake twice the oxygen that I normally do I will become unstoppable.”

And Gillion sure tried. His gills flexed open and he took a loud gasp for air. It kind of worked, as he began sputtering and coughing any air we got in his lungs out. Jay wasn’t sure what his anatomy was like, but she’d be surprised if he had more than one place his body used for breathing.

“I did it,” he gasped. “Watch out, evil. With my new and all powerful breathing technique, I will . . .” He swayed from the rail and floundered onto the deck comically.

“Holy shit, Gil!” Chip dealt down next to him. “You can’t jump in all at once buddy. Do it again, but smaller this time.”

“Right right, of course.” Gillion nodded, not moving at all. “I’ll get it this time, count me in Chip.”

Jay debated if she should interfere or not . . . no, watching was definitely funnier. They’d probably be fine.

“Captain Jay.” She turned to see Alfonse behind her. “Are we ready to raise the anchor and depart?”

Oh shit, she had forgotten about that. “Yeah, I think so.”

“Should I assist the other captains?”

She turned back. Gillion was coughing louder, Chip was yelling incomprehensible nonsense while also trying to pour juice into Gillion’s throat.

“I think they’re okay.”

[faireth-reed]

Everyone hates book 5 but I loved it?

Well, let's go by parts.

Previous things

You probably know I didn't like book 3 because we were promised so much and only got Alfonse. And book 4 was the same but even more boring, nothing was happening at all. Book 2 had lots of great characters, but their potential was a bit lost.

Reginn

I expected someone boring. But from the first moment, all the characters were suddenly so expressive?

She's a character that could tell me "hey, we're friends" and I would fucking believe it. And her conviction during the last chapter was great. I didn't expect her to have that mindset, it's not something you see in previous characters.

Fáfnir

I. Adored. Him.

Like woah, a mixture between Lyon and Caellach? He gave us so much, compared to regular possessed characters that just say "kill kill". He was menacing, he had his own agenda. He was interesting.

I think there are more people who wanted him as a protagonist, but I feel like the only one who preferred him to be a regular person instead of someone special. Would have accepted him as Eir's brother, tho.

Eitri

Wait, she surprised me so much?! I wasn't looking forward to another boring main villain, but hey. Turns out her motivations and craziness are very different. I saw Reginn receiving Nino treatment again as a flaw, but it's literally the villain's point!

I was so sick of all games being full of royalty (and nobility) but this time it's someone crazy who supports that system. And Reginn prefers her people over her legacy! Finally.

Shame she had to be a loli instead of a young adult, but the crazy face kinda compensates it.

Dágr and Nótt

Grew attached to them. They reminded me of Basilio and Flavia, one of the few good Awakening parts, but with extra traits. Liked Dágr very soon and got Nótt with a few merges on my secondary account, so I always enjoyed their scenes. Shame that one of the most important ones only happened on youtube instead of in-game.

Ótr

Expected male Laevateinn, got someone more dark that fulfilled his purpose. I was glad that he got that ending instead of being redeemed dumbly, but he still wasn't purely evil. Just very sick and scary.

So I'd say most of the flaws are the same ones as in the games. Too much royalty (even if this time it got properly treated), too little time for all those characters to have screencap... But we expected it. Don't know, I feel like most people who dislike books 2 and 5 are the ones that enjoy 3 and 4, so the opposite as me (but equally respectable).

To me, book 5 is a bit like book 2, but the latest characters have had a bit more development. But if I must be sincere, while y'all are tired of Fjorm, I am sick of Loki. Fjorm is currently everywhere in some attempt to compensate book 2's missed opportunities, but she's had some interesting supports, like with Tethys and Yuri. But Loki literally has one personality trait, mischief. There's nothing more.

[iamdarkness]

To Feed a Tiger. Forces of Will.3

Chapter 3

Alfonse x Summoner, Alfonse X Summoner X Lif

And one sided (as of now) Dimitri X Summoner X Alfonse X Lif

Triggers for talk about mental health. It is Feral Dimitri after all. Mentions of death and depressive thoughts.

Sexual Harassment and maybe more than that.

Incest. (Freyr and mentions of Freya). Rater R for a little graphic scenes of battle and character death. Nothing we have not seen in the game itself.

-Hrid…- You hear Sharena say under her breath and it feels like all the happiness has been drained from her voice. Of course she would feel sad. Her big brother meant so much to her and seeing him suffer would make her suffer as well. They were so close. He was her best friend, confidant, protector and hero. Watching him so defeated had been a shock and more so that she herself had not reacted fast enough to prevent this. In a way she felt responsible as well.

-Summoner _______. Princess Sharena. Heroes. It is a pleasure to be your guest again.- Hrid says when he is close enough to take your hand and Sharena’s. His hand lingers on yours and you take it back to take Princess Laegjan’s.

- It is indeed as King Hrid has said, a pleasure to be here again.- Laegjarn says as she takes your hand and Sharena’s, her piercing red eyes watch you searchingly.

You greet them equally and introduce your heroes by name and title. You will not have them be nameless heroes to no one. They deserve to be treated, like the heroes that they are. As if sensing your unrest and because he has dreamed of your pain Freyr comes and stand by your side . He blocks Hrid from getting too close to you. You hear young Claude snicker behind you.

-How was your trip to the beach Summoner? I would have liked to come sooner so we could meet you there, but we had a little delay.

- It was great! We even had a sand castle contest and a nice nap.

-They even got a great tan!- Said King Claude nodding to Freyr in particular and you turn to give him a fake angry look. You notice he is watching Alfonse and he winks at him. Alfonse looks like he understands something unspoken.

- I will cherish mine. It was a wonderful and invigorating nap.- Says Lord Freyr to bring attention to his chest and he “looks” sideways to smile at you.

- I can’t say the same about mine my Lord! It stings a lot!- You tell him smiling.

- Yeah we got the wrong lotion, so now we need to go to the infirmary to get fixed up.- Said Sharena sheepishly. You notice Alfonse and Hrid are looking at Freyr’s bare chest. They can clearly see the white mark of your arm on it. Hrid looked a little scandalized and Alfonse… he looked amused. He looks sideways at Hrid.

-Is that…?

-Oh it’s my hand. I kind of hugged him while I was sleeping. Now if you all don’t mind. We need to get to the infirmary. I’ll see you all at the meeting.- You say and leave with the rest of your group to the infirmary. You hear Alfonse talking to Hrid.

-Everyone loves our Summoner. Some more than others and in different ways.- And there is a hint of humor in his words. <<At least he is having fun.>>

~*~

The meeting lasted three hours. Besides the heroes Anna had asked to attend, you had asked Hero King Marth, who was the oldest of the Marths and with more experience, Micaiah, King Claude and Lord Freyr. You were sitting between the former two. They had sat themselves with you in between before Hrid had claimed the chair next to you. You had seen Claude talking to Alfonse and thought they had a plan to distract Hrid or may be just make him re think his life. There was no announcement about the engagement, but Hrid said the royal ball that was supposed to take place in two wees was pushed back for two months. This would give them all time to prepare and gather more information.

- I also hope that by then it will be two good news to announce and not just one.- He tells you and Fjorm when the meeting was over. You feel Fjorm’s cold hand take yours and give it a squeeze.- Dear summoner, would you be so kind to sit by my side at dinner? I would very much like to talk about some important things with you.

-Sure.- You agree to it because, you want him to give you a reason to tell him you are not interested. Alfonse and Fjorm did not sacrificed themselves, for this man to think you are going to fall at his feet after a dinner. Besides, you were sure Claude and Alfonse were planing something and you trusted them. You turned to Fjorm and winked to let her know you got this. She blushed at this.

Once at dinner you do sit by his side. Commander Anna is sitting at the head of the table.Alfonse is sitting about three chairs from you, between Fjorm and Sharena. The chair next to you is the other head of the table and it is still empty. Suddenly, you see F Dimitri come inside the dinning hall. He seldom comes in here and you signal for him to come and sit by your side. He complies. Claude and Freyr sit on the chairs in front of you and Hrid.

Dimitri was dressed in a dressy black suit with blue cape that Forest had designed for you to give him. His hair was up in a ponytail.

-Dimitri. You look so handsome! Did you like the clothes?

-Thank you _______. I…they feel comfortable.- He says and his face is crimson red.

All through dinner Freyr and Claude kept on talking to you and taking your attention from Hrid. Claude was blatantly flirting and Freyr...you were looking at a different side of him, to be sure. It must have been because as someone who could be in your dreams, had the ability to see things others didn’t and know things about you that no one else understood, but he got your sense of humor. Something even Alfonse had, had trouble to adjust to, not understanding your references and knowledge. You had to read his same books to be able to make new references and jokes. After years of being together he had taken your humor and understood what you meant and some of the heroes even used your slang. Freyr was different. He knew stuff and he used the obscure references to make you laugh and it gave the conversation a more intimate feel.

Still you were giving Dimitri all the attention you could because he was important to you and wanted to make him feel that he was cared for.

-We should go to the beach tomorrow and make it a drink contest.- Says Claude smiling at you.

-Oh my Lord give me patience! I am not taking you to get drunk Claude. I have never seen you drunk, but let me tell you; you do not need it.

-I can not give you patience child. Only good dreams and many children.- Lord Freyr says smiling at you. Hrid stops eating to look at him. You notice Claude and Dimitri are doing the same. You laugh at it. You keep forgetting he is the god of fertility as well. Freyr turns to them and says amused.

-I am the god of dreams and fertility. Do you want my blessing?- He turned his closed eyes at Claude who laughed out laud and bring his hands off in a guarding motion.

Everyone seemed to breath again.

-Wait have you given ______ your blessing?- Claude asks and winks at you. You feel your cheeks heat up.

-I would give her, as many children as she desires.- He answers Claude. The wording is very on purpose and it seems it is not lost on the people sitting at the table. You hear Hrid chock on his food.<< Oh God! What are these guys doing!?>> You spy a look at Alfonse and he looks amused if not a little red faced and concerned, but amused non the less. You give Hrid your glass of water to drink and wait to see if he needs you to perform the whatever maneuver. He drinks the water and start breathing right. He thanks you with a blush to his cheeks. He looks mortified about the incident.

-Yes Claude. I’ll be having thirteen children.- You say the first number that comes to your mind.

- I’m going to need a bigger table at home then.- His eyes twinkle with mischief.

-You better. My whole soccer team and I will be visiting you often.- You hear sounds of laughter coming from various sides of the table.

-Hey! I meant children with my beautiful green eyes.- He wiggles his brows.

-Well you better start looking for a wife then, because those are a lot of kids to have. You better start soon.

-That is so mean!- He says fake hurt, dramatically touching his heart.

-You gave Dimitri your blessing.- Dimitri says suddenly, breaking the conversation and looking at Claude in a cold and annoyed manner. He is asking Freyr about baby Dimitri.

-May he never lack good dreams. They are the rest of the mind and the refuge of the soul.

-God, that is so true. I’m tired of dreaming of going to battle and finding my self back in school butt naked - You hear a noise like someone almost spit their drink. Hrid by your side actually laughs.- or zombies in the battlefield eating my heroes. The living dead. - You elaborate after you see Hrid’s confused expression.

-Are you afraid of school and the risen?- Asks Hrid trying to catch your attention away from Freyr and specially Claude.

-Heck no! Zombies are rotten corpses that eat the living like wild rabid animals. I used to watch a lot of moving pictures about them before coming to live here. I’m cool with risen. I even like the red eyes. I like red eyes. They’re kind of sexy, depending of whoever has them.- Of course you are talking about Lif.- And school…I mean…the bad part is finding yourself butt naked in a public place.

-I wonder what that dream means if it is a recurring dream.

-I think it means…- You get cut short by the conversation in the table next to yours.

-Oh You heard that Lord Corrin? The summoner finds red eyes sexy!- You hear Nile’s voice loudly tell Corrin.

-What the hell Niles! Why are you listening to my conversation?- You throw him your balled up napkin. He only laughs. Corrin who is sitting by his side, hits him with his elbow. You hear an “Ouch” followed by Niles laughing.

-Summoner you were talking loud enough for the whole kingdom. This makes you laugh too.

You look sideways at Alfonse who is talking to Fjorm. She seems to disagree with something he said, sighs and nods.

After a while when some of the heroes start to get up from the tables you hear Alfonse clear his throat. Claude is looking at him and you turn just in time to see Fjorm say something to Hrid.

-_______. Would you care to sing something for us?- Asks Hrid.

-Right now?- <<Are this guys trying to kill me of embarrassment?>>

-Yes _____! Sing that song you sing with the guys on campaigns! - That was Claude.- Make it to Freya like last time! You don’t mind, do you?- He asks Freyr. Freyr shakes his dead.

<<WTH is he talking about?>> there are many songs you like singing with the heroes when in campaigns by the fire light so you are kind of confused. He makes a gesture and you get it.

-Oh…Fine.- You agree mostly because that song does not need the best of voices. You lean in to talk softly to Dimitri.- Dimitri. It is going to get loud.- He nods at you like he is ready.- You look around and catch Shigure’s eye and signal to him. He goes pink but nods.

-When a humble bard…-There was a choir of whistles, “Yeah!”s and shouts.

Graced a ride along

With Geralt of Rivia

Along came this song.

From when the White Wolf fought

A silver-tongued devil

Her army of elves

At her hooves did they revel . - Freyr does look entertained.

They came after me- Shigure stands and sings alongside you.

With masterful deceit

Broke down my lute

And they kicked in my teeth

While the devil's horns

Minced our tender meat

And so cried the Witcher

She can't be bleat

Toss a coin to your Witcher -Everyone starts singing. Hrid’s brows are knitted and he is looking around to see everyone singing. Even some of the heroes like Tibarn who had gone out had come back to sing.

O' Valley of Plenty

O' Valley of Plenty, oh

Toss a coin to your Witcher

O' Valley of Plenty

(Rest of the verses here)

Toss a coin to your Witcher

O' Valley of Plenty

O' Valley of Plenty, oh

Toss a coin to your Witcher

A friend of humanity X3 - You leave the last choir to Claude who has the perfect voice for the part. ( 1)

By the time you finish the song everyone starts screaming. You have no idea why they like that song so much but every time you all sing it; it feels like you are all pirates or something.

-Goddess! I love that song. For a minute I felt I was in a tavern somewhere in a town far away riddled with monsters and villains.- Says Claude.

-You mean Fodlan taverns anywhere?- Asks Dimitri. He sounds serious, but the gruffness of his voice is gone and it makes you happy to see him put the effort to joke around. Claude laughs out loud and can only nod to agree.

All around you could hear the heroes talking excitedly about one thing or another. Some where inviting others to the town tavern. Others like Lady Camilla is heard telling someone something like “We should dress like pirates next Pirate Festival dear!”.

-That was something, you don’t see every day.- Says Hrid smiling and he looks entertained.- You are something else summoner. Who is the Witcher?

-Freyr.- Says Claude at the same time that Freyr says your name.

- It is a story about a monster hunter called Geralt of Rivia, that is sent to fight a half goat or ram and half man who was helping some elves, who were the “terror” of the nearby towns. I changed it for Lady Freya and her dark elves, who we had to fight in our dreams some time ago, with the help of Lord Freyr. I say the Witcher would be Lord Freyr. He was the one who gave up his life to save us. I summoned him some time ago.- You raise your cup to him in a toast. He smiles at you.- Besides he has the long white hair and beautiful golden eyes.- Hrid looks at Freyr and Freyr opens his eyes to reveal his beautiful eyes. They are a liquid, luminous gold color. They glow as if with the light of liquid fire but not quite lava.

-I thought he was blind.- He says in wonder. You could understand him. Lord Freyr was a beauty to behold. Even in his animal form he was the most beautiful being you had ever seen. Even the ethereal beauty of Lady Freya was nothing compared to him. Everyone was either a little jealous of him, felt intimidated by him, or had a crush on him.

-Just sleeping. - Freyr says calmly.

-Talking about sleeping. I need to get the younglings to bed. Dimitri what are you going to do?

-Whatever you ask of me.- He says readily eyeing Hrid. He has noticed how clingy he seemed to be with you and he does not trust him.

-I would like you to come with me on my patrols tonight; if that is alright with you. -His brows furrow and he gives Alfonse a long look. Alfonse seems to be listening but avoids looking at you.

-I will come with you.

-Hey I thought I was coming with you my dear!- Says Claude.

-You can come to get the kids to bed if you want to. I am going to need a handsome prince for tonight’s fairy tale and Marth is busy.- You tell him teasingly. Hero King Marth who is walking by looks your way and blushes.

-That is so cruel.- He says and pouts.

-Summoner. I was wondering if you would like to take a walk with me in the gardens or I could take the watch with you.- Says Hrid.

-Omm, I really need to take Dimitri. There are things I would like to talk about with him, but if you do not mind you can come to story time and then take a walk. Since my prince charming is sulking right now. It looks like he does not want to cooperate.- You notice Claude is looking at Alfonse and you have this distinct feeling that surprises will keep happening before the night was out.

<<Seriously guys? Like my heroes need to be told to do weird crap.>>

Dimitri went to prepare for your watch together, but before he left, you saw him frown at Hrid who returned it with a cold look. This of course annoyed you to no end because no one treats your babies that way. You go to the living area where the children gather every night for a hero to tell them a tale. You do this twice a week, usually with Alfonse by your side. You really wanted to be petty and reenact Frozen with Hrid as the prince, but you remember Anna and Alfonse said to treat him right.

<<Fine>>

When you are done with the kids you and Hrid go take that walk in the garden and decide that if he starts coming on to you; you will have to nicely let him down. You are even waiting for the chance. You are sitting on a bench around the entrance that lead to the Eastern stables. Hrid has like the spot to take a rest and sit as close to you as possible. Lucky for you the hour was still early enough that many heroes are still around and you do not feel uncomfortable.

- The heroes are very fond of you _____. It is very impressive to see. I have been told so many things about you and I thought it would be impossible for someone to posses so many qualities like you; but I can see that not only are all of those rumors true…they do not make you justice . I can see what you do for the heroes and for the people. I was told you aided in a birthing yesterday.-You nod but say nothing when he keeps talking.- I remember the first time I saw you. You came to help heal me and ask if I needed anything. My sister Gunnthra was so fond of you. She believes you are destined to be part of our family. I can only agree with her good judgement.

- I feel very humbled by her favor towards me. I…- Just thinking about her, and her horrible demise brought tears to your eyes.- I wish I had, had more time to know her better. Sometimes… I wish I could see her in a dream and see her happy again. I also wish I could save Fjorm…from everything. -He looks moved by your statement but he has no idea that he is the one you want to save her from.

-It may do her good to spend a weekend at home. You could come and visit with her. It would bring us happiness if you did. It would make me very happy.- He says and takes your hand in his cold one.

-I think it would be good for her to do so, but I am afraid that as long as there is a war; my place is here and I can’t take more than a day off every week. You see…I…-There is a pause since you were distracted by someone walking on your far left, as if trying to not be seen.- Hey!! Valter? You are back!. What do you have there?- You get up and walk towards the tall man.

-A shake…- He says . He has heard you say that to other people jokingly. He is not turning around to face you and has something big on his shoulder.

- Valter?- He finally turns around and you see he is all bloody from a wound on his arm and leg. There are gashes as if from big paws.- Oh god Valter! You are hurt! Let me see! You’ve been gone for three days! I know you came early but look at you!

-I am fine summoner. I will go to the healers in a while. Here.- He lowers the thing he has been holding on his shoulder.- I gift you the man eater,that has been plaguing the villagers in the Western villages.- He places the mountain lion at your feet. His tall figure kneeling on one knee to better show his prey.

- A fine prey Valter. I could not have chosen a better hunter. -He smiles with pride. At first you and Valter had not see eye to eye, with his way of trying to make you be afraid of him and calling you prey.  Alter he had a lot of talking to by Alfonse and Leon/ Fomortiis, you had come to an understanding and now It was a better relationship. You may not trust him as a person but you trusted him to be himself and now you had a better understanding of his motivations and personality. You also valued and respect his skills.- I thank you for an excellent job.- You take our your handkerchief and clean his mouth. It is dripping with blood and it is not his.

-Will you partake of it Summoner?- He asks lifting it up to his shoulder again.

-Of course, but only after it is cooked if you don’t mind. Are you going to skin it in the kitchen? -He nods- I’ll go take a look during my watch. Valter don’t eat it raw! Those cats have worms in their meat. - He nods and smears your cheek with blood. - Valter…- you whine at his retreating back. He gives a loud laugh.

- Was he drinking its blood?

- Yeah, probably.- You say whipping the blood off of your face.- I’ve told him not to eat it raw. I am afraid he is going to get sick in the long run, but he told me he was not going to live that long. Now I am seriously thinking of not returning him to his world… I’m gonna have to adopt him or something. - You notice now Hrid is looking at you a little open mouthed.

<<What did I do?>>

-Summoner!- You hear the shout of a familiar voice. You see a mop of white hair shinning bright in the light of the torches. His red eyes burning with annoyance.- Naga’s brat changed his patrol to be my partner. Did you allowed this?

-No Mr. Grima. I didn’t know about this. Which of them?

-The first one…the one from the river.- <<Oh Marth>> He says it pouting. You take his hand.

- Grima, dear. You have to understand that sometimes people may want to be your friend. Has he ask you about Robin?

-No. Never.

-See? He is not interested in returning Robin like Chrom wanted to, not only because he has never been friends with Robin before, but because he knows quite well there is only you in that body. What he wants is to be your friend. You see, like you; Hero King Marth was summoned after death. He will be staying here after the war, like you. I have talked to him already Grima dear. He has no evil intention towards you. He just wants to be your friend.- He looks to his side and thinks for a moment.

-Fine worm; but if he so much as thinks about “bringing back” Robin, I’ll eat him.- He is still kind of pouting and kind of bashful about it. You ruffle his hair playfully. He growls but lowers his head to rest on your shoulder.

-Come here you grumpy dragon. -You give him a hug.- Give the man the chance you gave me and Alfonse. And if he so much as hurt a single hair of my -You whisper so only he can hear- Baby dragon ( 2 )…I will personally behead him or something.

-Don’t call me that worm!- then he adds in a softer tone-…eat him…- He sounds angry to other people but you know him well. He does not move his head. You don’t know it, but he sends Hrid a venomous look.

-I’ll eat him whole Grima. He’ll make some great tacos or burgers, sausages…Ug! I grossed my self out now.-  You say laughing. He gives you a low laugh as well.- I didn’t see you at dinner Grima.

-I was busy training.

-I know. Here if you go to the kitchen and get something to eat’ I’ll give you this candy…but don’t tell Gaius about it.- He lets go.- Oh Valter is there with this mountain lion he killed. We ate roasted beef.- He makes a face. He dislikes Valter and mountain lion.

-I don’t like mountain lion. Fine. I’ll eat him instead.- He says smirking and turning to leave.

-No Grima! You’ll get sick!- You say laughing hard. You know he is kidding.

-That…That is the Fell Dragon Grima?- Asks Hrid when Grima is gone. You nod smiling.- The terror and destroyer of the world?- He looked at your face and can almost see pride in them, like a mother showing off his child who has done something great. And of course you feel pride. Grima was loved and happy. He no longer wanted to avenge himself, he wanted to be loved and be accepted. This was a big win for you.

The rest of the walk is spend like this. You walk for a while and then a hero shows up and take your attention away from Hrid. He seems a little frustrated but at the same time, that look he gives you, like you are something precious does not fade from his eyes. It is the time for you to go and you are about to say good night when he asks something of you.

-This night has been wonderful. I have seen you work your magic and the more I see, the more I think you would be a great queen.

<<Oh crap!>>- I am just a regular person who wants what’s best for her people and home. -<<Yeah sound more patriotic why don’t you?>>

- I know. That is the reason. I - He makes along pause and seems to change his mind on what he wanted to say.- I know, I asked this of you before but, I really would like to hear you sing. Only this time. Would you sing a love song? What would you sing to the person you want to spend the rest of your life with?

-I really am not that great a singer. I just like music a lot and since I came here I lost my… music so I sing it, to not for get it… besides I…that is very personal.- You say uncomfortable. This was going sideways fast and you knew it.

-I understand. I also understand you do not know me enough to fall in love with me. You must know by now I wanted ask for your hand in marriage, but I will not push it. I just want to hear what Fjorm has heard. It would make me really happy.

You think about it and realize that how worst could it really get? It was not like you were going to accept him any way. -OK, let’s walk this way.- You tell him and start singing when you are almost under Alfonse’s balcony.

I say I'll move the mountains

And I'll move the mountains

If he wants them out of the way. -- It did feel like you had to move a mountain to reach Alfonse, when you had just met. Now

look at you now. You could barely part from each other.

Crazy he calls me

Sure, I'm crazy

Crazy in love, I say.

I say I'll go through fire

And I'll go through fire -- There are flashes of you fighting alongside Alfonse to beat Surtr.

As he wants it, so shall it be

Crazy he calls me

Sure, I'm crazy

Crazy in love, you see.

Like the wind that shakes the bough

He moves me with a smile -- Yo see him in your mind’s eye smiling that rare sweet smile he has only for a few precious people and you.

The difficult I'll do right now --Well you did gave him an army of heroes and manage it well.

The impossible will take a little while -- And you will end the war and win it for him.

I say I'll wait forever --You look up to his window. Up till now you had been looking at the starry sky but the light in his room had gone out. He was surely looking out the window.

And I mean forever-- That was your promise. You will wait for ever for him.

If I have to hold up the sky

Crazy he calls me

Sure, I'm crazy

Crazy in love am I

Crazy in love am I. ( 3)

Luckily Hrid had not been here long enough to know where your room or Alfonse’s room lay. He did not know he had witnessed your promise to him.

-That was beautiful. That song… I could imagine you fighting against Surtr…Saving my land and my people.

<< Oh Lord! You have to be kidding me. This is what he got from this?>>

-You have to remember your highness, that I was not alone and I did the least of the fighting. You have Alfonse to thank for that and The Order. -<<And your sister’s sacrifice…>>

- I was lost in the song I have to confess. You look so beautiful right now. It is easy to forget everything else.- He steps closer to you. You are hit with the urge t to step back, but you have to stand your ground.- _____ I want to get to know you better. I want to be more than just acquaintances. I want to be..

<<God I hope he says best friends! Why can’t someone just come and save me?>>

-...more than just your ally. I want to be there when you need me and be the one you can count on.

<< Sir you are describing Alfonse…>>

-Hrid. I appreciate the sentiment. It is always a good thing to get to know the people that are important in our lives. I do agree with that, yet I need to tell you; that with the war and all the work I need to do; I can not offer you more than friendship. My priorities..

-She tells us all the same thing. Can you believe that? So very cruel Summoner.- Says King Claude from behind you.- I apologize for the intrusion, but princess Sharena has need of your help. Delthea drunk a kettle of coffee and is now running around playing pranks on unsuspecting heroes. I think she hid in the tower. Also Dimitri said he will be waiting for you in the library in half an hour.

-Oh Lord! Hrid, please forgive me for leaving you. Delthea is a very powerful and very imaginative witch, I can’t have her do this at this hour.

-I understand completely ______. In fact I would like to be of assistance.-  Hrid said eyeing Claude.

-That would be amazing. I just need to warn you about the consequences; but if you are alright with cat ears, be our guest. -Claude points to his head. Sure enough there lays a set of black velvety cat ears.

-Oh for God’s sake Claude! Wait. Is there a tail to match?…Oh what am I saying. I’m sorry Hrid. You better sit this one out. There are just so many guys with cat ears and tails I can manage in one night. I will see you tomorrow. Have a good night.

-As you wish. Good night and pleasant dreams.- You thank him and go away with Claude.

- You look so cute Claude.- You say and laugh.

-Mm interested in petting my ears  _____?

When you two are far enough, Claude takes his fake cat ears off and meet up with Freyr and Delthea who is not really playing tricks on anyone.

- I almost didn’t make it. I apologize ______ . I did hear you tell him you are not interested. That is good. I don’t think it will stop him though. It feels like no matter what we do, he can’t seem to mind that the heroes flirt with you. I mean I understand. I see you do this every day. You care for everyone and they can’t help but adore you and I understand it quite well and it only makes me love you more.- He says it matter of fact like he is not baring his feelings in front of other people.

-Claude…

-I know ____. I should have considered it. He just looks so stiff, controlling, possessive and well cold, I thought he would find it uncomfortable. Make him re think his choice. I’m thinking even you telling him you are not interested in a relationship may be making him more persistent. Like whenever you tell Valter not to eat mountain lion raw…He already ate the liver by the way. I saw him a couple of minutes ago.

-What?- Face palm <<OMG Valter. I feel like I’m dealing with toddles!>>

-Well. It is done. We will see what we can do tomorrow.

-I suppose. - You start walking towards the library where Dimitri would be waiting for you, but make some space to talk to Delthea quietly. -Oh Delthea. Did you ever find out what the book was about?

-Oh…I did ask Alfonse but he could not open it. He asked me where I had found it and I showed him. He had never seen it or heard about it before. He did not tel me the exact translation, but said it was about the first King of Askr. I asked him if I could help him find out how to open it and he said it was fine by him, so as soon as the Ice King takes off we get to work. I also told him I wanted to help him with his project and I managed to convince him to let me help. Like you say: “ Two heads are better than one.” he just told me not to tell you. ______ he is very upset. I am worried about him. I mean if he asked Claude to help him it means he is very desperate. That man better leave tomorrow or I will bewitch his underpants to be itchy for a month! What?! I can guarantee you he will never know it was us. Just like the time I turned Lord Virion’s undergarments pink. -she giggles.

- Was that you? Oh my God. -Virion was still looking for the culprit.- Please don’t do that. I don’t need more trouble for the Order or Askr. We can leave it as last resort though; in case we can’t find a way to break the deal.- You tell her to settle her down. When you finally meet up with Dimitri, you notice he is talking to Freyr and offering him something. On a closer inspection you see it is one of the key pendants to the tree house.

- I can not guarantee you she will not follow in a way, but no one will be getting in there but you, _____ and I, so there will be less chance of someone spiking your drinks. I am taking dreamless sleep pills and can’t dream. She will not tempt me.

- I feel touched by your gesture. I will take you up on your offer if you are sure of it.

-I am. I thought about it. I figure it would be hard to return to your room.

-Then I will stay with you. Thank you. I will wait for you reading in the library until you are done with your patrol.

- You can join us, if that is your wish.- Says Dimitri. Freyr seems to be thinking about it.

-I thin it is better for me to wait here. There are books here I have never read before.

Claude says his goodnights and leaves. Delthea stays to tell Freyr about the awesome book she found and where she found it. You are crossing the door to the outer grounds to talk to the inner wall guards. It is half past midnight.

-Dimitri. What you did back there for Lord Freyr. I am really touched and thankful for it. I thought about changing his room, but you know how all the rooms are the same except for Alfonse’s and mine, so it would be all the same. I was thinking to take him to my room and sleeping on the study. I was sure he would not agree to that. Then I thought to let him stay in one of the rooms at the infirmary.

-I thought about it when you told me what had happened to him. I am sure it was much more serious than what you mentioned.

- It is. It is much more serious.

-He seems to feel safe around you.- <<As do I>> He thinks.

- I wish I could save him from her.- << I already watched him die once…I could not take it if he were to die again because I failed.>> You do not voice your fears with Dimitri. It is better for him not to trouble himself with your fears.- I could have offered to sleep with him, but even voicing this sounds bad. Askr is so very conservative. - <<Although…We could camp out in the tree house with Dimitri! Wait…that sounds like a threesome or better yet a “treesome”…Damn!>>- we could…- You get cut short by your messaging pendant getting too warm. Something is wrong. Then you hear someone shouting your name. It is Gordin.

-______!!! Lord Freyr told me to tell you the Elmblan Empire is crossing our borders! They are about to attack the keeps in the Northern towns. He saw it some moments ago and sent Delthea to tell Commander Anna.

-Thank you Gordin! Dimitri. I need to tell Alfonse and Sharena.

-I can tell the princess!- Says Gordin seriously.

-Thank you! Let’s go Dimitri.- You feel the pendant again. It was Anna. The message was to get ready.

You are running down the hall to Alfonse’s room when his door opens up. You see Hrid and Fjorm getting out of her room down the hall.

-Lord Freyr saw Embla crossing the Northern border and attacking the keeps.

-Let’s get ready. Inform the heroes on rotation. We will wait for you in the War room.- You nod and walk yo your room to get to the list in the study, but you get waylaid by Hrid and Fjorm who tries to persuade him to wait until they are called.

-Are we being attacked?

-Not ourselves. The keeps in the Northern border are about to be attacked. We will probably march in a while. I’ll keep you posted. I need to call my heroes on rotation.

You enter your room and then the study. You hear Dimitri say something and then shut the door.

-_______. I am not in rotation, but I want to fight. Is Lord Freyr fighting too?

-Let’s see. He is in rotation…but…

- Let him go. It will keep his mind off of his troubles. I will fight too and keep my eye on him.

-If you are sure; I’ll add you to the rooster.- You start sending the magic signals to the heroes in rotation and once you are done you take the list with you to the War Room. On your way out you see Fjorm and Hrid are meeting after preparing themselves to fight. They follow behind you to the War Room.

-Fjorm, you are not in rotation. You are part of the base defence today. You want to come with?

- Yes. I already changed my turn with Mathilda. Oh and I found Valter on the way. He said he will be ready when you are.

-He is not on rotation. In fact he was supposed to still be off today, but returned early…well I guess. He can come.

- What is this about rotation?- Asks Hrid. He is dressed in full armor and ready to go.

-It is the way to manage the heroes. One part fights, another part is left as reserves and the defence stays to defend the castle and the people of town in case there is an attack while we march off. The heroes change every battle. Right now we are about to see where we are about go and what we are about to do and decide if we need to do some changes in the groups. Just like the Royal army.

-You manage it all by yourself? Impressive.

-Well it is my job to get to know the heroes abilities and weaknesses . Then decide who works better in what situation and what they should be doing and who to send them with. You know, tactician’s planing. I make the suggestions and then Alfonse, who is the brain decides if the draft is right for what he thinks the enemy is doing and stuff. He’s a genius. Then Anna makes the final decision… but I mean I also like to have other opinions. Like Robin’s and Soren’s for example. It is all simple and regular army managing.

- Well. Not really. Remember when we fist met and you had suggested this to Commander Anna, because you were afraid someone would try attacking the castle when you were away, just like the time Embla had tried to destroy the Summoning Ruins? I also remember Anna apologized to you for not taking your suggestion of having a fire brigade before Surtr attacked into consideration. It was also your idea to make the Heroes their Order Cloaks to blend in with the surroundings and re designed the Regular Army’s new camouflage uniforms. The Royal Army even changed theirs as well! (4)

<< God Fjorm! Don’t help me look good now!>> Hrid looked impressed. Fjorm looks sorry.

-I saw the changes. I like the new uniforms and their usefulness. Amazing!

-Well none of those ideas are mine. I just took them from what the armies use in The World of Steel. I mean, sometimes Alfonse lends me his brain cells and I do come up with some good ideas, but mostly it is him doing the job. I just help along.- Fjorm laughs at this. She knows what you mean, but the two men look at you with different levels of confusion. You finally arrive to the War Room and after asking if you wanted him to wait outside, you let Dimitri stand by your side during the briefing. Fjorm had stood on your other side and signaled Alfonse to stand by her. After a moment she whispers a quiet “sorry” in your ear. She moves from between you two to go talk to Laegjarn. You can feel Alfonse’s hand lightly touch yours when she leaves. God! How you wanted to touch him. Hold his hand and disappear from the world.

Since Lord Freyr’s dream was a forewarning you had time to get to the site and wait for the enemy to attack. It would be an ambush. You fear you will have to spend the trip avoiding Hrid and stealing moments to talk to Alfonse. During the first part of the night when you were walking besides F Dimitri, you remember he had wanted to talk to you about something important.

-So Dimitri. What was it that you wanted to talk to me about?- Dimitri looked taken aback for a moment and then he looked around to see if anyone was hearing you.

- I…I have been watching Lif when he comes to watch you…- He says and suddenly you are attacked by the memories of your last encounter.- I apologize for not telling you directly…I did not know if he was real or not.

-Lif…-<< My Alfonse>> the thought passes your mind faster that lightning and you had no time to question it.- I… I can see why you would think that. He is… He looks so …-<<Beautiful>>- different. My regret. -You had know he had seen Lif. Of course you did, but you wanted to let him tell you in his own time after that one time he avoided the subject.

-I saw him go inside your window…I am sorry. I was not thinking strait. I let him in, not sure of who he was until you mentioned him. I just knew he loved you and he wanted to be near you… so I let him. I wanted to know what he would do. Understand him.

You lower your head before someone notices your watery eyes as they fill up with tears. Those words were breaking your heart… and now he was gone.

-Don’t worry about it Dimitri. I practically invited him. I also understand you… and I can see your instincts are working just fine. I trust them and I trust you. Besides. I wanted to see him so badly. I was not sure if he had survived and now I know he is…still fighting.

- You love them both…

- I… I do…Do you think me wicked?

- At first. When I did not know who he was. I understand now. Would you tell me how it went? All of it? I want to know about him.

- I don’t blame you for wanting to know. He is an interesting person. I mean, he is Alfonse but…They are the same, but different. Alfonse plays the violin you know. He plays like the angels in heaven…They are both violin music, but different pieces you see? Both highly intelligent and both seriously passionate in everything they believe and do…but like music Alfonse is intense but contained, controlled, like Vivaldi’s Winter And Lif is just as intense but unbound like Devil’s Thrill…Both beautiful to behold but …Oh crap I forgot you don’t know what I’m talking about. The music sound kind of like - You hum the music and explain the differences in rhythm and tempo. You look at him to see if he gets it and you see him smiling. You have never seen him smile.- Heh… I got a little carried away didn’t I?- He nodded.- Were you there when he left?

- Yes.

-I still have to tell Alfonse. I forgot to do so with the…arrival of our guests and everything else.-You backpedal to not tell him about the engagement.

-You will tell him? Everything?

- Of course. I don’t want to keep secrets from him. He knew what I was doing. That was the reason he was not home. We wanted to help him. We even had a plan on how to do so and…you saw. It all went sideways. Alfonse knew Lif would decline our offer, but I wanted to believe. I could not even tell him the plan… I felt so selfish asking him to stay.

- It would be painful to be around you and not be near…

- (sigh) yeah…and let’s not forget Sharena.- You start telling him how everything had started. How you all had thought he was the first king of Askr and then found out the truth. You tell him about Sharena’s flowers he had placed in that shine he had made. You tell him about your Summoner’s coat folded neatly among your favorite flowers. His parent’s crowns. How he had built the shrine because there was no bodies to bury and no tombs to take flowers to. You explained his plans and how he had changed his mind to help you. How he had been used like a marionette by Hell to kill you and how you had finished her with the his most precious possession. His Summoner’s Breidablik…you omit it was your own weapon or so you thought.

After a while there is a pause in the trek for rest and meals. By this time the sun was already coming up. While you are talking to the men,you are interrupted by Hrid who wants to be your guard during the battle.

- King Dimitri is her guard today. He is her support.- Says F Dimitri in his gruff voice. Hrid looks coldly back at him, and you sense he is about to retort. There is tension in the air and you have to intervene.

- I appreciate it and you are welcome to stay, but he is right, Dimitri is my baby sitter this time.

- I understand you already have your support, but it would ease my mind if I could stay by your side. This way I can protect you and observe the way you lead your men. If needed I will assist in battle of course and like I said before in the meeting; you can use my men as if they are your own. As I wish you will see them one day.

-I… Thank you your Highness…- Dimitri was scowling and you could tell he was beginning to get angry.

-Were we not on first name terms _____?

-I apologize for interrupting, but I was wondering if his Highness would help me out.- The voice came from behind Hrid. It was Charlotte. Her huge soulful eyes were fixed on Hrid.Her voice was all sweetness and her demeanor bashful and coy. To her side Groom Marth stood looking at Dimitri.- Your sister said you could help me.

<<Oh Thanks GOD! I could kiss Fjorm right now!>>

-Oh Hrid this is Lady Charlotte of Nohr. She is a trusted friend and ally.- It had taken a while to warm up to her after the incident with Alfonse. He had to explain to her, in the coldest of voices that he was not interested in her in any sort of way and that, what she was doing was harassment and it was punishable in Askr. Prince Xander had been called as well and he had been even less lenient. After working with her you found out she was actually pretty cool when she was not obsession with someone. You even gave her pointers on what she was doing wrong with guys. Everyone knows guys do not like desperate women and she radiated desperation.

-I would help her, but I am afraid I am not tall enough.- Says Marth. Hrid excuses himself and goes to help Charlotte. You can tell he is very annoyed by the redness on his cheeks and ears. Charlotte turns to you and winks. Marth gives you a small smirk and asks if he can talk to Dimitri. They both leave to where King Dimitri is waiting for them. As soon as they leave, you feel someone tap you in the back. You turn around and King Claude takes a finger to his closed mouth and signals for you to follow him.

- Please tell me I am not as persistent and annoying as that man!- He says in a quiet hiss. You walk a little into the wooded area by the road and see a figure dressed in white waiting for you.

-Thank you Claude. I owe you. And for the record. You are not annoying at all and I enjoy spending time with you.

-Then minutes Alfonse. Make the best of it.- Claude says and winks. You turn around and Alfonse is blushing.

He walks up to you and takes your hand. He says nothing but his eyes speak volumes. His other hand comes up to your face and caresses your cheek. You lean into his touch and close your eyes. He kisses your forehead and then embrace you. You circle his waist as he cradles your back and head.

Meanwhile King Dimitri, Savior King Dimitri and Marth are talking to Fallen Dimitri. F Dimitri had gone to ask them what was happening to you and what was the deal with the king of Nifl. K Dimitri and G Marth had weighted the options of telling F Dimitri what they knew. They decided to tell him about the treaty and that he should be patient and threat the King with respect so that Askr could gain the aid they will need if they were to be attacked by another kingdom. They will tell him about the engagement after Hrid leaves.

-Yes. Apparently he is interested in building a relationship ending in marriage with her, but we all know she is not interested in anyone but Prince Alfonse. Still, we have to be careful and polite with him.- Explains Marth.

-Fine ,but if he so much as breathes wrong, her way I will cut his head off.- He is about to go when he is stopped by his other self.

-It is not wise to project your feelings towards her. She will not return them. Better men than us have tried and failed. She wants only to help you and it will only hurt you both.- Says King Dimitri.

-I understand who her heart belongs to and I would not come between them.- He wondered if any of them had seen the way you looked at Lif, or had seen how much you love each other, or if they only knew about Alfonse. The way he saw it; he knew better than any of them who your heart belonged to. Divided as it was.

Dimitri found you talking to Alfonse just at the edge of the forest by the road you were taking; but he did not approached you. You were looking at a map, but seemed to be talking about something else. He spied Hrid talking to the blonde girl who wanted to marry a rich man. Her charms were being neglected by the prince who kept scowling and sending you furtive looks. Dimitri could hear you talking thanks to his finer sense of hearing.

-Can we talk about that after the battle?- You ask Alfonse. He scowls.

- What did he do? Did he hurt you?

-What? No! He refused our help, just like you said he would. He left…for good this time.

- There is more.

-We should focus on the battle ahead. I don’t want to mess up something important because our head is in another matter.- Alfonse closes his eyes. He is loosing his patience and probably thinking there was something worst than what actually happened. You sigh.- I wanted to wait until later to tell you. The truth is just that, he refused our help, said he could never be my friend and that even if he agreed to be helped, he doesn’t believe we can help him. He showed me his face…then kissed me. - Alfonse palled and rubbed his face. He looked annoyed but at the same time relieved.- I did not tell him about my “memories”. I don’t know what he would do, if what we think happened to me, is real.- Alfonse looked even more relieved by that. Dimitri wondered what that meant.

-We will talk about this when we get home. Hrid will be your guard today. He asked Commander Anna. -His jaw muscles were moving with tension.

- Goddammit! Well so will Dimitri. I am not changing my plan. He is lucky I did not choose Grima. I’m being nice here Alfonse…a good girl Alfonse.- You smile coyly at him and at first he is confused, but you see him redden. He has no idea of your real meaning, but just looking at you giving him that look is enough to make him melt. He knows you are flirting, but he does not know the context. He is about to say something when you both hear Anna give the command to start the march.

After a meal brake, Fjorm comes to talk to you.

-_____. I heard my brother has asked to be your body guard. You have to deny him.- You look at her confused.- _____ remember our traditions. If he saves your life or Alfonse’s; you will owe him a life debt. I…do not understand him. I would not have thought him capable of using something like this or even demanding it of you, but he seems so different. I am not sure if it is because he has been alone without mother and Gunthra to guide him or something, but he looks different. I am just doing this as a precaution. I swear to you he is a good man and a honorable one, but I also know that he is stubborn and will fight for what he wants and what he thinks is best.

-I believe you Fjorm. I actually like him as a person. I just can’t help be angry at his ideas and the outcome of his requirements for the treaty. I will appeal to his warrior pride and make him be in the battlefield, just not close to Alfonse or Sharena. Deal?- She smiles and blushes when you take her hand in yours.

That night there is no time to put tents up. You put your roll up by Sharena and Fae who sleeps between you and Grima. You have noticed Grima had given the small dragon some of the candy you had given him. Fae is slowly becoming a younger sister of sorts to him. She started following him around and he let her after he was told she was alone in the world and had been isolated for a long time. She had been well taken care of, but had no living family. Although she had people who loved her and knew some half dragons, she was immediately drawn to Grima after she had heard of how he had been treated and how he had been isolated and alone. She had told you she wanted to help him. They were both alone.

You were awaken by a soft voice.

-The family has grown.- Alfonse’s smiling face is looking down at you from his sitting position by your head. You look around to find Fae had moved to Grima’s side and some time in the night, young Tiki had laid down on his other side.

<<OMG! What do I do?!>> You did not want Grima to wake up to find her there and get angry. You look at Grima and see that his eyes are open. He moves his hand from under Tiki’s head just a bit and signals you to not make a noise. <<Oh OK then..>> He closes his eyes again.

-Care to patrol with me?- Alfonse asks and you get up to join him. Hrid had, had the last watch and was sleeping now. You would be leaving in a few hours and arrive at the keeps before twilight.

-I guess it has grown. I wonder why the dragons just leave their kids so young wander around in the world, all alone like that.

-They probably have their reasons to do it.- He says quietly. You were thinking of arguing your point but remember that he himself was not as close to his parents and had had a more or less lonely childhood. If it wasn’t for Sharena he would have been much more of a loner. You decide to change the subject.

-Free for some hours then?- You ask. He looks back to where Hrid is laying asleep by his sisters.

-At last. Care for a tea after the patrol?- He asks you smiling. You take his hand and look him in the eyes.

-I’ll be happy to.

You do the patrol and drink some hot water since you could not find the tea. You talk for a while and fall asleep together sitting by the fire. This is where F Dimitri finds you to wake you up to re start the journey.

The second day goes on just like the first. Hrid comes often to talk to you and more often than not some heroes come to take you away for one reason or another. You walked alongside K Claude mostly and Grima who was followed by young Tiki and Fae. At some point Hero King Marth came to walk alongside and carried a sleepy Tiki who had placed a flower on his tiara. Fae pouted until Grima carried her as well. You looked back one time to find Chrome watching longingly at them.

You arrived past midday to the Keeps and after you help them all to settle and then seek Hrid out. You did not notice Alfonse had followed you and stayed in the shadows to wait for you.

-Hrid. I wanted to talk to you.

-Oh?

-You see… I don’t know how to say this… It is just, I wanted to ask you something. -He he looks at you expectantly with a small smile adorning his face. You also try not to sound flirty but keep it as interested.- I was thinking back at the time we found you in Muspell and remembering how you were fighting. Well the reason I was reluctant for you to be my guard was that I was curious about your style and I wanted to see more of it.

- Oh! I see. I was desperate and not at my best.

-Being desperate to save a loved one is probably when people are at their best in my opinion. Maybe not technique wise but at least morally.- He reddens and bites his lower lip a little.

-I would love to show you my style. Where do you want me?

<<Is he…?>>

-Umm. I was thinking of placing you, if you are alright with it of course; on the right flank, by Lord Seliph. That way you are in the fray and still close enough.

-It sounds good to me.- He says.

- We can talk about it after the battle. - You say because you knew he would want to hog the time again and because now at least you had something to talk about that does not sound awkward to you.

You attended the meeting with the Royal Army Officers. Alfonse had sent a messenger before hand to warn them. They had arrived some two hours before you.The plan was laid out for the officers and and after some debate it was approved. The Royal Army was very set in their ways and your suggestion on an ambush by militia attacks was taken with skepticism. You had met this kind of drawback before and it was always smoothed over by the heroes and Alfonse. The later had avoided your gaze every time you had asked for his opinion and you notice he looked angry. He had stood as far away as possible from you. Meanwhile Hrid had stood next to Claude which was as close to you as he could get.

As soon as the meeting was over, you sent out the mages and scouts to set up confusion wards in case enemy scouts came and saw you already there. Then mines were placed by the mages for when the enemy arrived. Not explosive mines but paint. The paint was magic and it help to immobilize , by temporally blind and confuse the enemy warriors; giving you precious time to attack them or retreat as needed. They also had the side effect of giving people hives. You seek out Alfonse to talk to him. You find him in the armory.

-Alfonse. I need to talk to you.- He does not turn to you and keeps on checking his gear and weapons. He looks like he wants to ignore you.

- I have no time. We can do this after the battle…unless you have someone to talk to later instead?

<<???>>

-Yeah… I promised Hrid we would talk about his sword style and technique…and that is what I need to talk to you about.

-I need to go check on the men.

-It will be just a minute…why are you so angry any way?

-What do you mean angry? Why would I be angry? Did you do something to anger me?

-I don’t think so…Look any way; Fjorm came and told me not let Hrid be my guard…- He looked at you now.- because she did not want him to save me or something and then I would owe him a life debt.

-What? He wouldn’t dare...- Now he looks even angrier.

-Yeah she doesn’t believe that either, but she says he looked different in a way and it is a “just in case” kind of thing, so I went to talk to him and ask him to fight. I was afraid for you as well as Sharena. It is better neither of us owe him something. - He nods. He still looked annoyed but at least he did not radiated that miasma of doom he does when he is really angry.

- I.. heard you talking to him.

-Oh! So that is why…Oh Alfonse!- You look around to see if someone is watching and take his hand. He leads you a little away until he finds a small door that he opens and you find yourself in a small closet full of weapon polishing products.

-I’m sorry I should have told you I was going to do that, but I didn’t found the time with so much stuff to do.

-No…I should not be jumping to conclusions. It is just…- He suddenly hugs you and kisses you on the forehead.- I…I love you so much…- He lowers his face and is about to kiss you. You feel like the butterflies in your stomach are having a party in there.

(Knock, knock)

-You two. It’s time to go!- Alfonse jumps back at the sound of Niles’ always suggestive words. You open the door and frown at him. Niles looks around inside the closet and smirks.- So…how was the sword polishing?

<<Oh I wish Niles!>> You roll your eyes at him.- We were only talking. You look back at Alfonse but he is looking down at his feet. You have never seen him look so guilty before. <<Adorable!>>

-Just talking huh…I love “just talking” with people inside closets too.

-Oh I wish Niles, but you went ahead an ruined it by knocking at the door. Besides we were in there for only like thirty seconds! Oh wait…Is that how long you “talk to people in closets”?

-______!!- Comes Alfonse’s voice behind you.

-.…Oh you got me good Summoner!- He says and starts laughing out loud.- I forget you are not afraid to use that tongue.

<<Oh Niles if only you knew… That’s exactly what I was trying to do.>> He looks at your face sees that little smirk and he just knows and laughs harder.

-Don’t worry your Highness. I am an expert at keeping secrets. I would give you fifteen minutes but we really need to go.- Alfonse comes out after you and his face is redder than a tomato.

-Wait. Let me fix your cloak.- He stops and lets you fix his scarf part of the cloak. You linger around his neck and then pass your fingers through the locks of hair loose from his crown. He is looking at you and you see his lips part and look at your lips for a second. His tongue comes out slowly to lick at his lower lip. The moment is so intimate Niles turns around to give you privacy and for once keeps quiet.

-You look good.- You tell him and his cheeks redden a little more.- Let’s go.- You say and both of you follow Niles out of the armory to Anna who is waiting for you.

~*~

The Emblian Empire attacked at midnight. The Askrn forces had let them get close to the bait, which was the keep where the the town people were hiding. Then the militia attacks were started in the enemy rear. Your surprise attack was successful and when they tried to retreat the mines enclosed them in where the men were not stationed. The battlefield was alight with fires suddenly burning, this way you could see where the heroes were and what they were doing.

From your position on one of the highest hills outside of town you could send the signals to the men and not be reached by enemy fire. King Savior Dimitri was by your left side monitoring the danger and the rear. Waiting for the moment he had to act.

Although you had smoother over the problem with Alfonse, he seemed still to be in a bad mood. He fights with the same skill as ever, but you could see there was something else in there. The same quality to his strikes that Lif had in his…like he really wanted to hurt something.

-Beruka tell Innes there’s an enemy sniper hiding far to his right flank over the tallest tree. - You mouthed over to Beruka who could read your lips. She nodded and before taking of to warn Innes.

Once in a while you look over to Hrid to check on his team and actually evaluating him so you would have something to talk about later on.

Next is Valter whom you had told to stay and rest after being on that hunt he went on. He seemed just as efficient, but there was a slowness to his strikes that if not corrected could end in a bad situation. You touch your medallion and say his name. It would let him know you are watching him or have something to tell him. He turns to you after making sure there is no danger.

- Are we the prey or are we the hunter?- That did it for him. No one would call him prey. He seemed to regain vigor, speed and strength.- Good. That’s my hunter boy.- You could hear Azura and Shigure singing over the noise. You turn to watch the others. Michaelis, Minerva, Seliph, Olivia,Eliwood and Roy, Hector, Rath , Eirika, Lyon and Ephraim…

You take your spyglass to watch the farther part of the field and spy on Xander, who is the leader of the Emblan army. He is watching you it seems, so you wave at him. He lowers the spyglass and for a second it looks like he is about to wave back but thinks better of it. This makes you chuckle. That man is actually a good man and you could understand his position. He not only kept Veronica company and keeps the vultures that try to make her their puppet away from them, but he had smoothed out some problems that could have escalated without his help. Without him the war would be worst and who knows where Veronica would be or what she would be doing. He kept her human.

Then from the North Eastern side of the Keep the flank breaks and reinforcements pour in. You knew about them and were prepared for them, that was what the mines were for. What you were not prepare for, was one of the heroes in the enemy lines. Adrestian Emperor Edelgard, dressed in her Reds and golds armor lead the reinforcements. You hear a hiss from S K Dimitri at the same time you feel your medallion warn you. It was Alfonse. You turn to watch him but you know full well what he meant. He points to F Dimitri. He has isolated himself as he always does. His backup Marth, is blocked form getting to him by a couple of lancers. Alfonse made his way to him, but before he reached him Dimitri looked up. It seemed like he could hear orders being given and recognized the voice.

Dimitri saw Edelgard and he froze for a second. Then he started to walk her way and he looked like he was not paying attention to his surroundings. Alfonse started to make his way towards him and so did Marth. You signal King Claude who is near by covering Alfonse, but he had already seen the scene unfolding. He started felling the enemies that were about to hit Dimitri. You signal Dimitri himself. At last he seems to react, but instead of returning your call, he started to relentlessly and brutally kill the enemies on his way.

You hear SK Dimitri growl in anger. You reach for his hand and squeeze it gently.

You can see with the spyglass that Edelgard has taken notice of Dimitri. She stands for a minute watching him and you see her close her eyes. The face she makes is almost one of regret. She turns around, then signals something to her men and she starts attacking the opposite flank. On her stead another hero is sent. Death Knight.

-Oh FUCK… Death Knight.- You had seen him before. That man was insane and brutal. He did not listen to orders and actively has tried to kill your heroes any chance he has. You see him make a bee line to where F Dimitri is trying to follow Edelgard.

You see it as if in slow motion. Ferdinand came down on Dimitri even before Death Knight arrived. You had not even seen him coming. He drove his lance with enough force to behead someone and the speed to not miss. He had the advantage of surprise. Dimitri could not deflect or evade; but before Ferdinand’s lance hit its mark; a golden shield came up to protect a falling Dimitri. Alfonse had reached Dimitri just in time to jump on the way of the strike and effectively striking the blond out of the way. Alfonse almost fell down with the force of the strike and the effort not to step on the fallen blonde. He stood with his legs on either side of Dimitri’s upper body. Then the second strike came just as he was trying to gain his footing. The force of the second strike almost made him stumble and had him straddling the blonde. Alfonse could do nothing but shield himself and Dimitri. He turned to see if Dimitri was alright and his faces were inches apart.

He was about to tell him to get up when they heard a yell. Ferdinand was falling down his horse and an arrow was stuck on the horse’s flank. Claude was covering him while trying to keep from getting hit by enemy arrows. This gave Alfonse the time he needed to get up. Alfonse was standing up when Death Knight’s scythe came sideways and hit his shield on the side enough to fling it and his arm away form his body. He deflected the rest with the sword.

Sparks like fireworks flew from Folkvangr. Death Knight was poised to strike again. Watching from the ground Dimitri was struggling to get up. He was backing away so he could get up and not be on the way.

You watch it all from your post. Unable to do anything about it. You feel like the life is draining from you with every beat of the heart. Hel’s scythe; coming down slowly and yet so fast. Just like it had done for Anna and Sharena before. It strikes Alfonse to behead , but the angle and motion playing their part have another idea. The scythe misses badly. He is falling down…

-ALFONSE!!!!!

…..He is falling….he is …. outside the Order's castle in a training arena. You followed him to see him train. He is doing something you had not seen him do before. He jumps and twirls his sword to gather power and at the point of the strike there is a beam of power coming out. The attack is one of the most powerful you had ever seen. It may even rival Aether.

-Incredible…- You say behind him. He turns and smiles at you. His naked torso glistening with sweat. In another time he would he dying of shame from being found with so little clothes.

-Do you like it? I am trying to create something powerful to kill her.

-Alfonse that is amazing! How do you call it?

-I don’t know yet…I want to make a future for us with it. Maybe then we can end this absurd war and get married,- He gets close to you and touches your cheek with his fingers. - My beloved _______. He kisses you slowly on your lips and then kisses your forehead.-…I might call it…

-DOOR TO THE FUTURE!!!!- Your yell resonates over the cacophony of voices and yells of the battlefield. Breidablik lights up…

A/N

This program is messing up my grammar instead of helping, especially names. I have no idea how many times I have gone and fixed them. When I transfer it to the page it gets messed up again. I think it gets confused because I write in different languages XD

As a side note, I am trying not to make Hrid sound like he is an asshole at all. I like him a lot, but the guy is in love and is very possessive and jealous of Alfonse who he believes belongs with his sister and passes most of his time with you so…He just wants a chance for you to get to know him and fall in love maybe…and maybe…and maybe…

I have this head canon that if Valter ever hears Guren no Yumiya from Attack on Titan it would become his National Anthem XD. Bless Natewantstobattle and his covers.

Have you ever wonder why Lif’s face and original skin only covers his nose and his mouth seems to be lost and to have no bone inside?….yeah…I do.

1. The song I am referencing here is the metal cover by Dan Vasc:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bS4Q-WWyl3Q

2. It is said that Grima is 2000+ years but I seriously think that he can’t be that much older than Tiki was around the time of Shadow Dragon. So to me he is still a kid. A very neglected and abused kid who is lashing out in the worst way, because he is so powerful. I am doing this because I think that a gown up Grima would be more a love interest and I don’t want that in this story. Also I ship him with Evostrashbin’s Summoner. BTW I’m so happy Evo got Halloween Mr. Grima! I love it!

3. Crazy He Calls Me. Natalie Cole’s version. I love this song all thanks to my father. I choose it because I could see the co-relation with the story line and situation.

4. I mean. I get that the order is supposed to be the good guys but dressing in white all the time in battle? That works well in winter and Nifl, but that’s it. That Lord of the Rings cloak, the Lorien Elves gave The Fellowship would be awesome to have for the Heroes on more stealthy missions. Camo uniforms would also work wonders on the Order’s favor.

[ao3komorii]

The Last Hope of a Fallen Prince (FEH Lif/Reader)

This is the last of the Fire Emblem oneshots I’ve written, so enjoy! :) Lif is definitely my fav FEH guy for obvious reasons so I wanted to write a nice story for him! The only other Fire Emblem thing I have right now is a semi-written Sylvain oneshot, but I’m not sure when I’ll get around to finishing it.

For clarity purposes, Reader in this story is Kiran from Lif’s world, not from the main FEH world, but still no names or name blanks are used. Also, to make things easier on everyone, Lif is always referred to as Lif and Alfonse is referred to as Alfonse even if other characters address Lif by his other name. Also, there is smut at the end! ----

You had held out hope, but you felt your heart shatter as Hel’s scythe swiped across Sharena’s back. Alfonse’s cry for his sister rang out loudly in the otherwise deathly quiet battlefield in time with your gasp as Sharena’s body hit the ground. You weren’t given a moment to process the loss of your fallen friend when Alfonse screamed your name from across the battlefield at the same time as you felt a looming presence behind you as a scythe was lowered to your neck, gleaming with sinister purple energy.

“So pitiful,” Hel remarked dispassionately. “You had no chance against death.”

Alfonse was still running towards you, his sword drawn as tears streamed down his face. But Hel was death, and death did not care to give any fighting chances. Death would take lives unfairly, and one last cry of your name from Alfonse was the last thing you heard before the scythe was brought back into your neck, ending what little fight you had left as Hel let you fall limply to the ground, her job done and this world conquered of its resistance to her nature.

“We won’t be able to defeat Hel unless we can get Líf’s help,” Anna admitted reluctantly. “I wish I could think of any other way.”

“I don’t know how to get through to him,” Alfonse lamented. “I know that we’re the same person, but I couldn’t imagine serving Hel. I fear that the other me’s heart may be out of our reach.”

The group looked around, in low spirits, but nobody volunteered any ideas. At least a few minutes passed in this deep mist of looming defeat until the princess of Askr raised her head suddenly, staring ahead at the summoner and alerting Anna’s attention.

“What is it, Sharena?” Anna asked, a hand on her friend’s shoulder.

“Summoner!” Sharena exclaimed. “I have a plan that may be tricky, but it could be our last hope of reaching the Alfonse of this world.”

Sharena looked over to her brother, who looked troubled, but nodded back to her. “You have been able to summon heroes from any point in their lives, right?” she asked the summoner, and received a nod in reply.

“But we’re nowhere near the summoning stones!” Alfonse protested.

“And who could we summon that can convince Líf to help us?” Anna added.

Sharena smiled confidently at the others, but kept her focus on the summoner. “Even without the summoning stones, your Breidablik connects you to other worlds, so couldn’t it connect you to your other self?”

“You’re saying that she should try to summon the summoner from Líf’s world, when she was still alive?” Anna probed, thinking about it for a few seconds before a fire ignited in her eyes. “That could work! After all, if he’s anything like our Alfonse, Líf must care for his summoner a great deal. She might be the only one to make him see reason!”

“Anna!” Alfonse protested, face red with embarrassment.

“That’s what I was thinking!” Sharena replied excitedly. “My brother would do anything for her!”

Anna and Sharena grinned at each other, feeling hopeful for the first time in a long time, while the embarrassed prince and summoner stared anywhere but at each other, cheeks warm. While she looked at the ground, the summoner considered this idea. If she could reach her other self, just before she was killed by Hel… it could save everyone. Líf would not listen to her, but he was determined to save his own summoner. She would give it a try, she decided, raising Breidablik as the heroes around her all fell silent, hoping their summoner would be able to pull off a miracle.

Sharena was gone, taken cruelly by Hel’s scythe that had already taken so many lives. Before you could blink, she was upon you, blade poised to take your life. Alfonse could not stop this, you knew that much for sure. You closed your eyes, too scared to look at Alfonse as tears rolled down your cheeks. You opened your eyes again as the scythe advanced on your neck, Alfonse screaming your name, but then everything around you dulled slightly.

As Hel swung her scythe towards your flesh, you felt a hum from your Breidablik, hanging at your side. You quickly reached down to touch it, and as soon as you did, you felt a pull. In front of your eyes, you saw a light so bright that it made you close your eyes in fear of being blinded. And above all, you felt that someone needed your help, that they just needed you to reach back towards them with your Breidablik. Your only other option was certain death, and so you reached back, straining yourself to make the connection between you and the mysterious force absolute.

Your body felt light for a moment, and you had no idea what was happening. You opened your eyes only when the aggressive light surrounding you dimmed, and then you finally opened your eyes and realized that you were not in Hel’s clutches anymore. Your first thought was that you had died, that this was some heaven where you could be with your friends again. But then you caught sight of a familiar figure, one you had only seen before in mirrors or clear, reflective ponds.

It was you, surrounded by Anna, Alfonse, Sharena, Eir and all the other heroes you had come to know as friends and allies. Your eyes stuck on Sharena especially; you had just watched her die, she should be dead. You took a staggered step towards her, then another, and then just ran at her, wrapping your arms around her as she cried out in surprise. She raised her arms to hug you back, and allowed you to stay like that for a moment before you pulled apart. You were so happy to see all of them, but were met with sad, pitying gazes, which made you feel like you were missing some important piece of information.

“Summoner!” Anna addressed you. “There’s something we must tell you.”

You were feeling on edge, and stared at Anna warily, which she took as a sign to continue. “We’re from an alternate world to yours, and you’re the only one who can save our world.”

You reeled back in surprise, unintentionally meeting eyes with your other self, who removed her hood to let you see that she looked exactly like you. Sharena looked uncomfortable, but she stepped closer to you, and looked like she was forcing herself to speak up.

“Your world was destroyed by Hel. She left only my brother and Veronica alive, and she told them that for every person from our world they killed, one person from your world would be saved.”

“Alfonse…” You couldn’t believe it. “He serves Hel?”

Alfonse also stepped forward as his name was called. “I cannot imagine it myself, but the other me could not handle the loss of his world and is unwilling to help us fight Hel.”

“He goes by Líf now,” Anna added. “And while we do not have the power to bring your world back, we think that you are the only one who can convince Líf to help us defeat Hel once and for all.”

This was all so sudden that you were having a hard time processing everything. You couldn’t believe your sweet, kind Alfonse would serve Hel, but in your last moments in your world, you saw the devastation in his eyes. This did not seem like a nightmare of Hel’s creation, so you had no choice but to take them at their word. If Líf was the only thing standing in the way of Hel’s defeat, then you would do anything in your power to convince him. You would make him see that he was not alone.

“I’ll help you,” you agreed.

“Thank you!” Sharena cheered. “He may not be from my world, but he is still my brother, and I don’t want to see him do this to himself any longer.”

“Then we move out!” Alfonse announced. “If we venture further into Hel’s domain, Líf is sure to make an appearance.”

As everyone separated and prepared to move out, Anna approached you with Eir by her side.

“I just wanted to warn you, you may not recognize what your Alfonse has become,” she said sadly. “It has been years since his world perished, and he has grown, warped by Hel’s influence. But no matter what he looks like, you must remember that he is the same man he was when you last saw him.”

Eir bowed her head slightly to you, face full of sorrow. “I am deeply sorry for the pain my mother has caused you,” she apologized.

“It’s not your fault,” you replied. “But I’m just scared to see what is left of Alfonse. I don’t know if I can get through to him.”

“Hey, are you doubting an Anna-approved plan?” Anna joked, forcing a grin on her face. “If you can’t convince him, we’ll make another plan. But everyone here believes in you!”

You couldn’t help a small smile; Anna’s enthusiasm really was infectious. And she was right; if you gave up here, that meant that you were giving up on Alfonse too. You would save him, you would make him see reason. You were nervous to see for yourself exactly what had happened to him in the years that had been seconds for you. As gloomy as the situation seemed, the more you thought about it, the more you wanted to see him.

“We’re ready to march out,” Alfonse announced, startling you as you hadn’t even realized that he had approached your group.

“Right, I’m going to make sure we’re not low on any supplies!” Anna said, giving you a smile and a wave as she went on her way, Eir looking between you and Alfonse before hurrying after Anna.

You stared at their backs as they left, and Alfonse slowly approached you. When you finally looked over at him, he had pity in his eyes, but held your gaze. You felt mixed feelings as you stared at him; he looked like your Alfonse, at least the last time you had seen him only an hour ago, but he wasn’t of your world. You were the stranger here, and while everyone had been kind to you, you felt lonely.

“I’ve talked with him before… the other me,” Alfonse said as you both turned your heads to watch Anna conduct her final checks on the supplies. “He’s doing what he thinks is right. That is the only way he has to reconcile things in his own mind.”

“I can’t imagine how things have been for him,” you admitted. “For me, it’s been no time at all, but he’s gone years without anybody.”

“I’m sorry that we are asking so much of you,” Alfonse said. “But the way he is now, Líf will not listen to us. Someone from his world, someone important to him like you is the best hope we have.”

You were embarrassed to hear him speak so openly about your importance to Líf. The Alfonse you knew had a lot of trouble being open with his emotions, but maybe it was easier for him to talk about because he technically wasn’t speaking about himself. You were sure that both of you felt awkward; it was hard for you to see Alfonse, but know that he wasn’t the Alfonse that you knew, and he clearly didn’t know how to comfort you, likely blaming himself in some way for his other self’s actions.

Alfonse’s attention was drawn away from you when Anna signalled him forward as the army began to march out. He started forward, but then stopped, remembering that you were still there. They had a battle to fight, so you couldn’t take even more of his time.

“Go ahead, I’ll be fine,” you told him, and he looked reluctant, but nodded and headed to meet Anna at the front of the army.

You followed behind, staying in the middle of the pack. You noticed stares from the heroes around you, but nobody approached you. You knew that they were all uncertain of what to say to you. You looked exactly like their own summoner, but unlike her, your world and everyone you cared about here was dead, all but Alfonse. You didn’t blame them; you wouldn’t know what to say to you either.

“I really think you can do it.”

You hadn’t noticed Sharena approach you, but she matched your pace to walk by your side.

“I know that we’re not from your world, but we’re all by your side,” she added. “It doesn’t matter what world you’re from, you’re still my friend!”

“Thanks, Sharena,” you replied as you both began to walk up a desolate hill.

“I know the other me would want us keep your spirits up!” she said resolutely. “Just leave it to your best pal, Sharena!”

Her cheerfulness was helping you feel better. You needed to keep your morale up if you were to get through to Líf. But you worried about what he was like now; would he even listen to you, or recognize you? Your Breidablik had disappeared the moment you had been teleported here, and you didn’t know if he would take you at your word that you were you. A part of you also worried that he would just attack you upon seeing you. You had no idea at all what to expect.

“What does he look like?” you asked Sharena what you had been wondering for a while.

Sharena furrowed her eyebrows; not upset, but in a way that you felt she wasn’t sure exactly where to start. Her lack of an immediate answer made you assume the worst, your mind coming up with dozens of gruesome scenarios.

“Is he…” You almost didn’t want to say it. “A zombie?”

Sharena’s eyes widened. “Oh… no! Not in the rotting flesh way at least!”

She cleared her throat, looking you in the eyes as she answered. “Well, he’s older… he looks at least a few years older. I always thought he would look more like father when he got older, but…”

You nodded politely and Sharena sheepishly apologized for getting off track. “There is a lot that you will have to see for yourself, but just remember that he is still the same prince that hid in his room when he had to wear his hare outfit!” she giggled. “At least I assume he had one in your world too!”

“He did,” you confirmed, a smile lighting your face at the memory.

“He’s too awkward!” she teased. “I had to trick him into leaving his room!”

“His bunny ears were so cute,” you added.

“I know!” Sharena agreed. “Very worth the fight I had to put up to get him to wear them!”

As you walked along, the scenery changed even further. You supposed that maybe you would recognize this place if it looked like it did years ago, but the land was poisoned with death, warped away from familiarity. The grass was dead and grey, crumbling into dust under your feet. Hel had drained the soul from this place, and wouldn’t stop her conquest unless you stopped her. You would have to believe that there was a way to kill death. You didn’t want these heroes and their world to suffer the same fate as yours had.

The next hill opened up to a large valley, a river flowing down the middle that was bordered by trees on either side. You were observing the livelier than usual scenery when the silent march was interrupted by some cries from the back of the army.

“It’s an ambush!” you heard, and Sharena immediately drew her lance as she turned to face the group of dark mages that had gathered for a sneak attack from behind you.

“Get to the valley!” Alfonse shouted, rushing over to the back while Anna began leading the troops to a better position, all rushing down towards the valley.

The order’s mages launched a counterattack, which allowed Alfonse and Sharena to take the mages down cleanly. You followed behind Anna’s group; you figured that it would be safer for you to be with the majority of the army. In your haste, you stumbled on a dip in the hill and fell forward, tumbling down a few feet, which ended up being a good thing as a blast of dark energy sailed over your head and impacted the area where you had just been.

You looked up, startled by the sudden attempt on your life to see enemies emerging from the opposing hill that overlooked the valley. You realized immediately that you were all sitting ducks running into a trap. The rest of the army had gotten fully down the hill, and hadn’t noticed the threat yet. You had to warn them.

“They’re on the hills!” you screamed desperately. “Get to the trees!”

Anna looked back at you, nodding quickly before giving the order for the army to set up a vantage point in the large outcropping of trees in the valley. With a resounding cry, the enemy troops began to rush down the hills, and you realized that you had to move. You heard Sharena shout your name, and you stumbled to your feet as she and Alfonse ran down the hill towards you.

Sharena helped you down the hill as Alfonse rushed to meet the coming enemies with the rest of the army. You looked up at the charging troops of the dead as they approached, wanting to find Líf with your eyes, but you didn’t see anyone who looked anything like Alfonse.

You did however notice a woman with long flaxen hair who seemed to be staring directly at you, even from all the way across the valley. You wanted to point her out to Sharena, but when you looked back, the mysterious woman was gone. You turned back to Sharena as you both entered the trees to make your way to regroup with everyone, mind still on the woman. You saw a flash of green, and only heard Sharena’s cry before she tackled you to the ground, the spot where you had just been scorched and your cloak singed at the ends by sparks from the powerful magic.

Sharena was up in an instant. “Thrasir!”

Looking at the mage up close, her hands glowing with green energy, you were scared. Without even Breidablik to defend yourself, you were a clear burden on Sharena in this fight. Alfonse had gone ahead of you, so you and Sharena were alone here. Sharena pointed her lance at the impassive woman, who stared past her at you, her stare unnerving you. Why couldn’t you shake off a sense of familiarity as you looked at her?

Sharena blocked the first blast of magic, but it was clearly a losing battle. Thrasir targeted you with her magic, and it was all Sharena could do to block the spells before they got to you, not gaining any ground in the fight because she had to protect you. You tried to dodge her attacks, but it was as if Thrasir could predict your movements before you made them, getting closer to hitting you with each blast.

Sharena was having a hard time keeping up, and one well-placed feint from Thrasir finally caught Sharena in her chest, throwing her onto her back. You rushed to her, but found that she had been knocked unconscious. The woman didn’t seem to care to finish her off, her predatory eyes locked directly on you. You wanted to help Sharena, but you would have to believe that she would be okay. If you stayed here, you would die. This way, you could at least lure the mage away from Sharena and give her a fighting chance while you ran for your life.

You turned and fled, hoping that Sharena would forgive you. You didn’t hear footsteps behind you, but you knew that Thrasir was coming after you. She had easily herded you away from the rest of the army, so you would have no help unless you could get back there or someone found you. At this point, you weren’t sure which scenario was less likely to happen.

Trees around you fell to her magic as you desperately tried to dodge her attacks. You had evaded her so far, but it was at the cost of your stamina. Your chest heaved, throat burning from the effort. You were starting to slow down, and Thrasir used that to her advantage. You stumbled back, scrambling to get out of the way as Thrasir felled several trees which landed in your way, blocking your path entirely. You turned back, on your hands and knees, to watch as Thrasir approached you. You were caged in with no hope of escape. You wouldn’t even find Líf before you died. The other you’s attempt to save her world and defeat Hel had ended before you could say even one word to Líf.

You didn’t want to die here, but you couldn’t bring yourself to even look at her, burying your face in your hands as you sunk into despair for everyone who would suffer because of your death. You had let everyone down, and it was too much to take. You felt the intensity of her power as she charged it up to end your life, the wind whipping intensely around you and knocking your hood off of your head. Thrasir released the blast with a triumphant cry, and you apologized to everyone in your head for letting them down.

“You…!”

You were alive. You felt little sparks of pain, but nothing had hit you straight on. You hesitantly uncovered your eyes, immediately noticing the large figure in front of you, back turned to you and cape fluttering in the residual wind. You looked past him to see Thrasir, who looked angry.

“You’re weak!” she spat. “You know that you must kill her!”

The man did not reply, but her words made him glance back at you quickly, so quickly that you couldn’t get a good look at his face.

Thrasir glared fiercely at you, and then looked back to the man. “If you do not kill her, I will. Remember what is at stake here.”

She wasted no further time with you, moving her hand quickly and summoning a portal that she stepped into, disappearing in an instant. Your fear didn’t disappear, but you felt some tension release as there was one less imminent threat on your life. This man had saved you, but you didn’t know his motivations. You were expecting him to turn around and finish you off, so you were surprised when he conjured his own portal, all without turning to face you.

“Wait!” You didn’t know why you called out to him, but something in you drew you to him.

He finally turned, and his eyes were bright red, but you knew those eyes anywhere. You shakily stood up, body on autopilot as you moved towards him. Every step that you made towards him caused him to retreat further away from you. Was he just going to run away? He entered the portal without saying a word, and you sprinted after him, barely making it in before it closed, not knowing where it was sending you.

The feel of stale air hit you as you gasped for breath, the stress of going through the portal hitting you hard. While you were struggling, the man just ahead of you looked fine. He hadn’t turned back to look at you, but you weren’t going to let that stop you.

“I knew you would follow,” he said, and you weren’t sure what to think of his new deeper voice, tone gravelly from the weight of several hard years on his soul. “You were always too optimistic for your own good.”

He clearly assumed that you were the you from the other world, and it hurt to see him speaking about you in the past tense. You had been dead to him for years, and your heart broke for him. You didn’t know what to say, but you had to say something, had to let him know who you really were. You weren’t sure what to call him, so you decided to start out slow so that you wouldn’t throw him off the emotional deep end immediately.

“Líf…” you said, and he stopped walking away from you at the sound of your voice.

He stood still, and you took the opportunity to walk closer to him. As you did, you noticed that your surroundings seemed familiar. It was a dilapidated castle hallway, banners and portraits on the walls ripped but familiar. So this was what had become of the Askrian castle. It was broken and crumbling, much like the man who stood before you, bearing the burden of his lost world and dead loved ones. The burden of knowledge had been hard on you, but it hadn’t been years for you like it had for him.

“I should kill you,” he growled. “I need to kill you. It’s the only way.”

“You don’t understand, I’m not–”

He finally turned around, and you were shocked into silence as you finally saw the full extent of what Hel had done to him. Sharena had been accurate in her limited description, but hadn’t gone far enough in emphasizing the stark differences in the prince. His eyes glowed unnaturally red, his hair so long that it reached his neck. He was taller, broader than you remembered him being, the colors he now wore leaving no doubt as to who he served. And you couldn’t ignore the most startling part of his new appearance, his spine and ribs being visible, swathed in a ghastly blue light.

His hand was on his sword, but he seemed to be struggling to draw it as you stared each other down. You couldn’t let fear stand in your way, so you walked closer, even as he drew his sword, looking like a wounded animal. This was your only chance, and you weren’t about to let it slip away.

“Alfonse, I–”

“That is not my name anymore,” he snarled self-deprecatingly. “I threw Alfonse aside when I became this beast.”

You noticed a bright light begin to shine at his side as you approached. One step closer allowed you to discover that it was Breidablik… your Breidablik. He had kept it with him after you had died. He noticed your stare, looking down at himself to see what you were looking at. As soon as he saw the legendary weapon’s gleam, his head snapped up to look at you in confusion.

“Alfonse,” you tried again. “That’s mine. The summoner of this world brought me here right before Hel killed me. I’m–”

Your words were stifled by a loud clang as Líf’s sword slipped from his grasp and fell to the floor. You couldn’t wait any longer and rushed to him, wrapping your arms around him as he slumped to the floor.

“You… you died, so long ago…” he stammered, so quietly that you could barely hear him.

“I’m alive… they saved me,” you reassured him. “The last thing I remember was you calling my name, with Hel’s scythe at my neck, and then I was here.”

Líf did not reply, but by the shaking of his body, you could tell that he was crying. You patted his back, and gradually his arms came up to wrap around your waist, his armor cold against your body. You stayed like that for a while, arms around each other, until Líf stood up, brining you up with him.

He conjured another portal, and you quickly grabbed his hand, partly worried that he would leave you again. He didn’t resist, leading you through the portal and into a very familiar room. It had been yours, back when you had lived in this castle. Everything was where you had left it, but covered in a layer of dust from lack of use.

“I come here when I need to think,” Líf admitted quietly.

You tugged on his hand and pulled him to sit at the edge of your bed with you. You wanted to comfort him with your words, but you knew nothing you could say would erase the years of pain and loneliness he had endured. You leaned over to rest your head on his shoulder and felt him freeze up. It made sense; you had never been so touchy with him before this, and you doubted that he had any affectionate contact in the years since Hel’s conquering of your world. The thought made you want to spoil him with affection, and so you leaned further into him, placing a hand over his chest, your palm against the transparent plate that covered his abdomen.

He eventually relaxed into the contact, putting an arm around you and letting you snuggle into his side. You could feel him physically release some of the tension he had held onto for years; he had you back, at the very least. But you couldn’t forget why you were here.

“Their world needs you,” you said softly, and Líf sighed.

“I know…” he admitted. “But helping them would go against Hel. If I do that, we’ll never get our world back. I’ll never see Sharena again…”

The thought was too painful, and you felt the anguish radiating from him. All you could see were his eyes, and you longed to look at the rest of his face under his jagged mask. You pulled away from him to stare into his eyes, placing your hands on either side of his mask while asking for permission with your eyes.

He nodded ever so slightly, closing his eyes and allowing himself to be bared fully to you as your hands found the latches of his mask and gently pulled it from his face. The lower half of his face was the same pallor as the rest of his face, his lips pale and cheekbones a little more prominent than they had been when you had last seen him. His eyes opened once again as his mask was removed, but he wouldn’t look at you.

“I wanted to see you again… but I didn’t want you to see me like this,” he said, and you could hear the sadness in his voice. “What I let Hel do to me… it’s shameful.”

“Alfonse, I don’t care what you look like. I just want to be by your side,” you replied earnestly.

“I don’t deserve your kindness,” he said simply, staring at his lap.

“You do!” you protested. “You did this to yourself because you had no choice! You did this to save everyone Hel killed. All this proves to me is that your kind heart hasn’t changed.”

“I don’t have a heart anymore. It died the day I lost you, Sharena… everyone. The Heart’s Rite doomed us all.”

Your words weren’t reaching him. No matter what you said, it wasn’t enough to bring him out of his own thoughts. You desperately wanted to show him how much you cared, so you would have to be brave for him. With your heart beating rapidly in your chest, you grasped his chin, titling his head to face you. He stared at you finally, his sadness turning to a startled longing as you leaned in closer to him, so obvious about what you were intending to do that there was no room for misinterpretation. You gave him the time to reject you if he wanted to, but he didn’t, closing his eyes at the same time you did as your lips met with his.

He was cold, but the warmth of your skin slowly started to seep into him as you kissed. You were surprised that he was kissing you back considering how hard he was on himself, but it made you happy nonetheless. You had never worked up the courage to kiss him before, despite harboring a rather large crush on the prince pretty much since you had met him. Despite his current scary exterior, he was so gentle with you, as if he was afraid you would crumble under his touch.

You pulled back from him as your feelings for him overwhelmed you. He kept his eyes closed, chasing your lips until you placed a finger on his mouth, his ruby red eyes opening to look at you with silent questions evident in his expression.

“I love you,” you told him, giggling at his shock and embarrassment as he tried to hide his face from you.

“What are you doing?” you asked him, and he dropped his hands in his lap, but was still too shy to look at you.

“I… I never thought…” he stammered, and it was all you could do not to openly laugh at him. As intimidating as he tried to be, he could never fully discard the awkward nature he had always had.

You had already confessed, so you might as well go all the way in on the chance that it could help him further return to you. “Pretty much since I met you, Alfonse. You’re so handsome and kind, and you care so much for your people…”

“I’m not the same man I once was,” he answered gruffly.

“Is this your way of telling me that you don’t return my feelings?” you asked, hoping that you could trip him up and get him out of his haze of self-deprecation. You knew Alfonse, and you knew that he would never kiss anyone that he didn’t have feelings for. You desperately hoped that this part of him was still the same as it had been.

As usual, he fell right into your trap. “No, I… I do love you, but–”

“But nothing,” you interrupted coyly. “If we both like each other, then you should kiss me again.”

You successfully flustered the prince into speechlessness, the tiniest flush permeating his pale cheeks. He stared at you again, his eyes drawn to your lips, and this time he was the first one to lean over to kiss you. You knew how hard it was for him to be vulnerable, so you would make the most of this. A small part of your mind knew that your allies were waiting on you to bring them Líf’s help, but all you wanted in this moment was to comfort him. You would ask him again when romantic tensions were less high.

You let the kiss go at Líf’s pace, and he kept things slow and gentle, cradling your jaw with one hand, careful not to prick your skin with his armor. His longer hair tickled your cheeks as you pressed yourself as close to him as you could be without sitting in his lap. He leaned into you further in response, his other hand sliding into your hair. You lost track of time, and soon he began to feel tiredness creep up on you. You wanted to stay awake and keep kissing him, but Líf felt you start to droop and pulled back. He gently maneuvered your body back until you were laying down on the bed.

“Rest,” he told you softly.

“Will you–” You were too worried to voice the question out loud, scared of the answer.

He looked down at you tenderly, moving some hair from your face. “Yes, I will stay here with you.”

You smiled, crawling under the covers at last, one hand creeping out from underneath them to hold one of Líf’s hands as you relaxed enough for you to fall asleep.

Líf watched over you as you slept, keeping your hand in his as if you would disappear if he let go. No harm would likely come to you anyways; Thrasir knew that he came here occasionally, but she would not intrude on him. She wanted their world back as badly as he did, and they had come to trust each other over their years of servitude under Hel. He had to admit that he found himself wanting to do what you had been asking of him, even though it would mean going against Hel and losing his only chance to save his people. He had been a monster for so long that he hadn’t been able to see a way out, not until you came. He just didn’t know how he would explain himself to Thrasir.

He found himself staring at your lips as you slept peacefully. He still couldn’t believe you were really here, and that you could find it in your heart to love a creature like him. He had not said it out loud, but he had loved you for a long time. All these years he had spent missing you, and you were finally returned to him.

With you here, he dared to hope. He had reserved himself to being Hel’s servant in order to save his world. He had been confined to this reality for so long that he had lost sight of any other possibilities. Hel was immensely powerful, but could she really be the only being in existence that could bring a dead world back to life? Your presence had reinvigorated him, and he felt himself begin to believe that there may be other ways of accomplishing his goal.

When you woke up, he would tell you his decision. He would no longer be Hel’s puppet and damn another world to the same fate as his. Having you by his side reminded him of who he once was, and now that he had you back, he wouldn’t let you go. He would help his other self end Hel’s reign of tyranny, and free himself of his bindings to her at last.

He hadn’t seen you in so long, and you were just as beautiful as he remembered. Every time he thought of you before today, all he could see in his mind was Hel’s scythe ending your life while he was powerless to stop her. As much as he wanted to think of the good memories he had with you, the trauma of you dying before his eyes overpowered all other thoughts of you. He had always wondered what you would think of him if you saw what he had become. He had anticipated a rejection of all that he was now, but you had accepted him and his faults without batting an eye. He didn’t deserve you, but now that you were here, he would make himself someone worthy of your love.

Just staring at your sleeping face helped to stave off his more depressing thoughts. He had truly missed you; he had not been able to sleep ever since he had become like this, but just being beside you while you slept was good enough for him. He felt like he had watched your face for an eternity before you began to wake; he had been so unaware of the world around him for so long that his brain didn’t register time very well anymore. He had to assume that the Askrian army had defeated the attacking forces and would have noticed your absence by now. As soon as you were ready, he would open a portal to take you back to them so you could all join together to take Hel down once and for all.

You were so tired that you didn’t even dream. Or maybe it was an effect being in the realm of the dead. You still felt tired, but you couldn’t sleep forever, not when the Askrians of the other world needed you. You slowly opened your eyes, noting Líf’s eyes on you immediately.

“Alfonse,” you said fondly before you could stop yourself, but paused at the cloudy expression that overtook his face. “I’m sorry I keep calling you that without thinking.”

He shook his head, smiling softly at you. “I don’t mind when it’s you.”

“Okay,” you agreed happily, sitting up in the bed and leaning over to kiss him.

Líf froze up in surprise; he clearly still hadn’t gotten used to the affected from you even after all the kissing you had done earlier. You assumed he was still having trouble believing that this was real. You pulled away to look at the dazed expression on his face and giggled.

Líf cleared his throat awkwardly. “I, uh, decided. I will help the other Alfonse.”

You felt an immediate sense of relief; you weren’t sure if you could convince him, even being from his world. You would go to help them either way, but it would make you more confident to have him by your side. You would show Hel that she would not get away with destroying your world. Everyone you had lost deserved to see her fall. Even though it would not bring them back, you had a chance to save another world and change its fate.

You knew that time was of the essence now that you weren’t too exhausted to stand. You pushed the covers off of yourself, standing up and adjusting your now-dusty cloak. Líf gave you one last smile as he reached down for his mask. He easily affixed it back to his face, and you were unable to supress a bit of sadness now that his face had been hidden from you again.

You watched as Líf reached down to his side, removing your Breidablik from its place and handing it to you. “If we are to defeat Hel, you’ll need this.”

You accepted the legendary weapon, noticing its pristine condition, not seeing any new dents or scratches in its surface. Líf had taken such good care of it, you noted fondly.

“I kept it with me,” he said, and you looked up from Breidablik to him. “It’s shameful to admit, but I would talk to it as if it were you.”

You stepped forward to wrap an arm around him. “I’m here now. We’ll beat Hel together.”

“What happens then?” he asked. “If Hel is dead, will I disappear as well?”

“I…” You didn’t know the answer to his question, and knew that false promises would do him no good. “I hope not. I don’t want to lose you.”

“I will fight until Hel is no more,” he promised, offering you his hand. “And then we can truly be free.”

You took his hand as he summoned a swirling portal that was the same deep purple as the accents on his armor. This was real. You were going to fight your most important battle yet.

“They have entered Hel’s castle, but they will need us if they are to win. Veronica may cast the Heart’s Rite, but it will take your weapon and the other summoner’s together to kill Hel,” Líf explained.

You nodded, feeling worries creep up that you tried to push down. You squeezed his hand; you had Alfonse with you again. You would have to believe that you could do this. You couldn’t leave your allies waiting.

Líf stepped towards the portal, and you suddenly felt like you didn’t have enough time with him. You wanted more, you wanted to be selfish. But you had to do this.

“Alfonse, I love you.” You wouldn’t go into a battle with such an uncertain outcome without telling him one more time. You hoped that it wouldn’t be the last time.

“And I love you,” he replied, his voice sounding the tiniest bit distorted due to the mask, but the emotion in his voice was clear.

You needed to keep your nerve up, so you followed him into the vibrantly-swirling portal… and straight into an inferno.

Swords clanged and magic flew from all around you. Hel’s army of the dead was relentless in their efforts to keep the Askrian army from reaching their leader. You had appeared to the side of the battle; closest to you was Sharena, who was flanked by a few heroes as they attempted to fight their way through a squadron of armored units. They were so focussed on their goal that they didn’t see a lone dark mage sneaking up to hit the princess of Askr from behind.

You gasped, gripping Líf’s arm as he zeroed in on the same thing you were seeing. “Stay safe and find the other summoner,” he said, drawing Sökkvabekkr and dashing at the mage.

You watched as Líf easily cut down the mage, surprising Sharena, who grinned happily when she saw who had come to her aid. You had to take your eyes off of their reunion to focus on your own goal; you had to reunite with the other summoner before the Heart’s Rite was completed. You couldn’t see her in the mess of fighting, but if it were you, you would likely be at the back of the army, giving commands from a safe distance. You mentally wished Líf would stay safe as you turned and ran into the crowd of heroes.

It didn’t help that there were a lot of tall figures in the heroes’ ranks; it made finding one girl much harder when you couldn’t see past the armored ranks of your allies. It was all you could do to avoid being hit by the magic flying in either direction. You weren’t sure if the heroes around you realized you weren’t the other you or not, but they let you weave around them as you searched.

There was a commotion at the back of the throne room as the final few soldiers surrounding Hel were taken down, and you caught sight of the summoner at last as she and Veronica advanced towards Hel. You cursed internally; you had been heading in the completely wrong direction. The army began to close in on Hel, which made the crowd condense further, leaving you no room to get over there.

Hel addressed the heroes that stood just in front of her. You could see Alfonse, Sharena and Anna all with their weapons at the ready, but couldn’t hear what Hel was saying. Just at the edge of the crowd were the summoner, Veronica and Eir. You became even more frantic as Líf stepped beside Alfonse’s side, Sökkvabekkr at the ready. You noticed that he looked around for you, but didn’t see you at your counterpart’s side. You wanted to scream and tell him that you were here, but you knew that your voice wouldn’t carry over the crowd.

“Please!” you begged, shoving at the unmoving soldiers in your way. “Please let me through!”

A radiant glow began to emanate from Veronica as she began the Heart’s Rite that would allow Hel to be killed. You weren’t a warrior, didn’t have the strength to push people out of your way who were too busy watching the scene up front to notice you. You were on the brink of tears you were so frustrated; if this plan failed because of you…

Your cloak was tugged at from behind, and you turned back to see Thrasir just behind you. Your first reaction was to jerk away from her, but she raised a finger to her lips and you stilled, staring warily at her.

“Come with me,” she said, gesturing with her eyes to the portal just behind her.

You must have looked hesitant, because she glared impatiently at you. “The Heart’s Rite is almost complete. If you don’t get up there, Hel will not die.”

“But why?” You couldn’t fathom why Thrasir, who had attempted to take your life before would be helping you.

“I did not notice before, but you are our summoner, are you not?” she replied. “Hel had used everyone for too long. I lost my brother because of her. I will not let this chance escape me.”

She could be lying, but if you stayed back here, the battle was lost. You nodded at her; you would have to take the chance that she was offering you. You had no time to waste to give it any more thought. She turned, heading into the portal, and you followed right on her heels.

“Bring death to that which cannot die!” Veronica’s voice rang out loud and clear as you and Thrasir appeared next to her.

“Now!” Thrasir hissed, and you drew your Breidablik just as your counterpart drew hers.

Side by side, you aimed your divine weapons at Hel, who was locked in place by Veronica’s magic. Together, you fired true, striking Hel in the center of her ghostly chest. And then the woman who had taken everything from you was no more. Hel’s body shuddered as she fell apart into dust.

You stared at the empty space where she had been. It almost didn’t feel real that she had been defeated. Everyone was glancing around at each other, embracing each other in relief that it was finally over.

Your focus was drawn to Líf as he dropped to his knees and your mind assumed the worst. You dashed over to him, startling the heroes around him as you also dropped to your knees.

You cupped his face in your hands, forcing him to look at you. “Are you okay?” you asked him, desperately hoping that Hel wasn’t the only thing that had been keeping him alive. You couldn’t bear to lose him, not when you had only just found him again.

“I…” he panted. “It feels…”

His head dropped onto your shoulder and you realized that his forehead against you felt feverish. What was happening to him? His head felt heavy as he leaned more of his weight against you, and you sat down properly so you could support his body.

You placed a hand on his chest to keep him somewhat upright as you tried not to panic. You called his name softly, but you couldn’t see any signs that he even heard you.

“Is he…?” Sharena asked as she dropped to her knees beside you, Alfonse just behind her looking worried.

“I don’t know…” you replied shakily. You didn’t know what you could do for him, if there was anything you could even do for him right now.

He was so feverishly warm, you felt like you were burning up just from being in contact with his skin. You realized that his chest felt clammy under your hand, and you reeled back to look at him just as Eir gasped from beside you.

“Mother’s influence…” she whispered.

Your suspicions were confirmed as you realized that your hand was resting on the skin of his chest. His chest that was now fully opaque, no longer alit with a ghostly glow, his ribs no longer visible. You hastily propped his head up to take off his mask, his cheeks flushed with life again. He wasn’t dying, he was coming back to life.

“With mother gone, her power has stopped influencing him,” Eir explained. “Death taints his skin no longer.”

Líf’s eyes slowly fluttered open, and he grunted in surprise as you hugged him tightly as soon as you noticed he was awake again, feeling his once-again-human skin against yours. He realized almost immediately, looking down at his mostly-bare torso on display from his death armor, and your heartbeat rang out in your ears as you noticed that his eyes were back to their original crystal blue. He was truly free of Hel’s corruption at last.

He held you tightly against him as he sobbed into your shoulder. Everyone around you dispersed to give you space, rallying the troops to return to their own world. You pet his hair and he slowly relaxed until he was no longer shaking, but still held onto you tightly.

“Aren’t you cold?” you teased him, running a hand along his stomach, watching as he shivered under your touch.

He pulled back from you just far enough so he could see your face, a soft smile on his face. “I haven’t felt the cold in years, so it is a welcome change.”

That’s right. You had to assume he was essentially a walking corpse for years left with nothing but his pain for company. But now he didn’t even seem bothered that his entire abdomen was on display, something that was flustering you as you saw a noticeable increase in musculature from when he was younger.

He looked confused by your sudden refusal to look at him, and moved closer to you, but found that you still wouldn’t look at him. Without the distraction of defeating Hel, you had nothing to keep your embarrassment at bay. You weren’t sure how you were so confident earlier in your room; it wasn’t as if him turning fully human again changed your relationship or who he was. But right now, him cupping your jaw to make you look at him in front of the entire Askrian army was sending your embarrassment levels skyrocketing.

“Are you hurt?” he asked, his tone sincere and so full of concern for you that it made you feel guilty.

You reluctantly met his eyes, cheeks so warm you were sure that you looked like a sweaty mess. You still didn’t answer him, unsure of what to say, and he scrutinized your expression, looking for any sign that you were injured. Finding nothing but your blushing face, he leaned in, closing his eyes as he got close to your face. There were so many people around you, and it was all you could think about, and you froze in place, your eyes wide open.

“What’s wrong?” Líf asked, opening his eyes, his lips mere inches from your own.

“N-nothing…” you stuttered.

He raised an eyebrow, grinning flirtatiously with a challenge in his eyes. “Then kiss me.”

When did he get so bold? You tried to pull back to look around and see if anyone was watching you, but Líf’s hand on your cheek held your head still, staring into your eyes with a determination that unnerved you. “Kiss me.”

You knew that people had to be staring, but he wasn’t letting up, so you leaned in to give him a quick kiss. Líf predicted your plan, his hand that was on your cheek sliding into your hair to keep your mouths locked together as he slid his tongue along yours. His eyes were closed, but yours were wide open with shock. He kept the kiss going for a few more seconds before pulling away, and the air was pierced by the sound of a wolf whistle.

“I hope that you’re taking notes, Alfonse!” Anna teased the prince, who was looking anywhere but at you and Líf, who finally let you disengage yourself from him.

“Well I think it’s sweet!” Sharena added.

You and Líf finally stood up, and he leaned down ever so slightly to whisper in your ear. “I’m sorry if I embarrassed you. It’s just been so long since I was fully human.”

You couldn’t find it in yourself to be mad at him. Not after all that he had been through. You both watched as the army dispersed; the healers tending to the injured as the mages began to set about creating portals back to their Askr.

“What do we do now?” you asked quietly.

“I don’t have the answer to that either,” Líf admitted. “I still intend to save our world, but without Hel…”

“I’ll go wherever you go,” you told him resolutely. “We’ll find a way to bring everyone back.”

“I couldn’t help but overhear–” You both looked over at Anna as she approached you. “You both are more than welcome in our Order of Heroes. You too, Veronica. Er, I mean Thrasir.”

You must have looked hesitant, because Anna grinned widely. “Hey, we owe ya one, and I don’t like owing people!”

Alfonse stepped up beside the commander, his eyes on Líf. “I want to help you… Alfonse. Please come back with us. We can help you find a way to restore your world.”

Líf stared at his other self, the two having a mental conversation for their ears only. You wouldn’t mind going back with the other world’s heroes, but you would defer to Líf. You trusted him immensely, and without Hel’s influence, he was free to pick whatever path he chose. You just wanted to stay by his side.

“I will accept your offer,” Líf answered at last, his fingers seeking out your own as he took your hand in his. "But only if she agrees.”

You were startled by the attention suddenly being on you. “I… of course,” you quickly answered.

“It’s settled, then!” Anna said, clapping her hands together. “Everyone, let’s prepare to head out!”

With that, the Askrian trio began to follow the rest of the heroes to the portals, leaving you, Líf and Thrasir standing in Hel’s throne room. Líf let his hand drop from yours to approach Thrasir, who was standing off to the side of the room. She watched him, awkwardly crossing her arms over her worn tome as he stopped in front of her.

“I intend to restore our world,” he told her. “And I will keep my promise to you. We are allies in this, and I have faith that we will accomplish our goals.”

“The portals are ready!” Sharena announced as she strode up to Anna, who was overseeing the situation. “Everyone has begun to head back to Askr!”

You watched as the army began to thin out and heroes filtered out of the portals that had been set up at the doors to the throne room. Sharena and Alfonse split up to assist in herding everyone to the portals while Anna set off through a portal to oversee things from the other side. The crowd got more and more thin as everyone returned to Askr, and soon it was just you, Líf and Thrasir left.

“We’ll be back,” you said with a smile, hoping to inspire confidence in the two.

Thrasir stared at you, and you didn’t know how to feel. You had never been confident with her motives, especially since she had been at odds with Askr for so long. Having her as your ally was an awkward feeling for you, but she had the same goal that you did now. Although you couldn’t help but find her intimidating, especially because you couldn’t read anything into her stare.

Líf looked between the two of you, and then to the portal. Thrasir caught his gaze easily, humming as she waved her hand in a well-practiced motion, summoning her own portal.

“Until we meet again in Askr,” Thrasir said.

“We will see you there soon,” Líf replied, and then she departed through her own portal without another word.

After she left, Líf returned to your side, taking your hand in his again. As he leaned down to kiss you, you noticed that even his hair had returned to normal, the formerly-white fade at the ends of his hair restored to its normal golden color. He pulled back after a moment and stared at you with fondness in his eyes, a look that you had never seen in him before, even before Hel had decimated your world.

“You don’t need to worry about Thrasir,” he told you, and you realized you must have had an uncomfortable look on your face while she was there. “She won’t try to harm you anymore. She’s grown up in the past few years, something I did not miss about this world’s Veronica. I’m surprised Alfonse got her to cooperate with him.”

“Thrasir surprised me when she teleported me up here,” you commented. “I wasn’t sure what to think since last time I saw her, she wanted me dead.”

Líf smiled ruefully. “When I didn’t see you with your other self, I thought the worst. I was prepared to strike down enemy or ally to have you by my side again.”

“Líf…” You weren’t sure what to say, but leaned your head on his chest, hoping your touch would be more of a comfort to him than your words right now.

“As much as I enjoy this time, the portal may close soon, my love,” Líf said, and the pet name had you smiling without thinking.

“Right,” you agreed. “We should probably go.”

“I would take us there myself, but I have never been inclined to magic like Thrasir. Hel’s magic was the only thing that allowed a brute like me that ability.”

“You’re not a brute,” you refuted as you both began to walk around the rubble of the crumbling castle and towards the brightly-colored portals. “You’ve always been a fairy tale prince to me!”

Líf stumbled as your words hit him, and you decided to remove your hand from his so you could link your arm with his instead. He had rescued you from certain death at the very least, a base quality of the fairy tale prince, and you wouldn’t be convinced otherwise.

“I can’t say that I agree,” he said at last as he helped you over a large chunk of ceiling that had fallen in your path.

“You don’t have to,” you hummed. “You’re my prince, even if our world is in shambles.”

Líf sighed, choosing to divert the conversation instead of dignifying your statement with a response. “I’m just relieved to be free of Hel’s grasp at last. The things I did…”

You both were close enough to the portal now to just enter it, but you stopped just short, staring at the swirling blue magic. Now that you were close, you could see the barest shape of the portal’s other end. It was faded and blurry, but you could recognize the courtyard outside of the Askrian castle easily. You couldn’t remember the last time you had been in the courtyard. Even before you were brought here through time, you had been journeying to fight Hel for so long that the Askrian palace felt like an old memory from another time.

“All that matters is what we do going forward,” you said softly.

You knew that you couldn’t wrap up his pain with pretty words, but you wanted to do anything you could to comfort him right now. He allowed himself to be vulnerable with you, and it meant the world to you to see him smile at you, his grip on your hand tight as you took a step toward the portal. Neither of you looked back at the ruined castle as Líf stepped through the portal with you just behind him. You would be back here, you promised yourself, when you restored your world and brought back everyone you had lost.

It was late in the afternoon when you arrived in the alternate Askr. The castle was abuzz as festivities were prepared to celebrate the order’s victory against Hel. It was all quiet overwhelming for you and Líf, and Anna arranged for a room for both of you to allow you space away from the raucous celebrations.

“You won’t mind sharing a room, right?” Anna had asked you with a wink. “It helps the order save on funds too!”

It was weird, being in essentially a guest room in what looked just like the castle you knew so well, but having Líf by your side was a big help to you. As soon as the door closed and you were alone at last, Líf wrapped his arms around you from behind, resting his chin on top of your head.

“I was unsure if this could happen,” he admitted. “Part of me thought I would die when Hel did.”

“You scared me,” you said, voice sounding less confident than you intended.

“I don’t intend to make a habit of it, my love,” he said, and you revelled in his sweet tone. He was still wearing his open-chested outfit, and the warmth from his body easily bled into your own.

You leaned back into him, and the position shifted his arms that were around you so that they now pressed against the underside of your breasts. You immediately felt him stiffen up, so you went a little farther, hoping to get a reaction out of him.

He easily read into your intentions, uttering your name warily. You were finally alone together, and he was human again, so you didn’t want to hold back anymore. You gently unwound his arms from around you so you could face him. You could tell he looked nervous, but it seemed to be more of a nervous excitement, his blue eyes looking a shade darker than usual.

You took his hand, pulling him with you towards the bed as he followed with short, robotic steps. You were usually so in sync with him, able to read his thoughts like a book. But this time you didn’t want to rely on guesswork. You wanted to hear him tell you that he wanted you as much as you wanted him right now.

You sat on the edge of the bed, and one more tug on his hand had him leaning over you, placing his other hand flat on the bed to brace himself so he wouldn’t fall on top of you. He put up no resistance at all, the longing obvious in his eyes. Still, you had to be sure.

“Alfonse.” You waited for him to answer with a short hum before you continued. “Do you want this?”

“Yes,” he answered breathily, quickly.

You wanted to clarify further, just to be absolutely sure, but he rushed forward to kiss you and you took that as his answer. In your surprise, you lost your balance, falling onto your back on the bed. Líf eagerly followed, caging you in with his body and kissing you again, deeper this time. You were trying to lose yourself in the kiss, but Líf’s armor was starting to poke uncomfortably into your skin, and you pulled away when you couldn’t take it any longer.

“Your armor hurts,” you whined, and Líf pulled away quickly as if you had burned him.

You couldn’t even begin to tell how his armor came apart, but he did not falter, reaching up and unclasping his collar piece, dropping it to the floor without a care. The rest began to come off just as easily, as the collar was joined by his shoulder guards and bracers, his fluffy cape dropping to the floor as he took off the remainder of his chest armor, his torso and arms now completely bare.

You thought that he would stop there, but he surprised you as he bent over to unstrap his leg armor and remove his belt. His entire outfit seemed to be armored other than his cape, and you weren’t sure how he was comfortable at all wearing it. He likely hadn’t been; there was no way that much armor could be easy to wear all the time. You didn’t realize until it was too late that he was intent on following your request exactly as stated as he removed the armor from his legs, which were connected together. Removing the leg pieces brought the armor covering his pelvis with it, and your face flushed as he now stood before you fully naked.

“What–” you stammered, caught totally off guard.

“I would never want to harm you with my armor,” he replied, but the smirk on his face told you he was teasing you again.

You couldn’t even look at him; his sudden nudity was flustering you beyond belief. “…you never used to be this forward.”

He laughed, and you felt the bed dip with his added weight and closed your eyes. You felt him begin to gently push your cloak from your shoulders, and you lifted your arms to make it easier for him to take off.

As he undid your belt, you felt his lips at your ear. “I had years to regret never telling you how I felt. I don’t intend to hold back from what I want anymore.”

He tossed your belt aside, and you finally opened your eyes as you felt a hard prod against your thigh. You were once again reminded of the muscle he had put on in the years since he had seen you as his strong chest and broad shoulders engulfed your vision. You kept your eyes above the belt as he slowly unzipped your shirt, exposing the bra you wore underneath.

And then he was kissing you again and you lost track of the clothing coming off. You had never discussed romantic pursuits with him before, never knew if he had even kissed someone before, but he was surpassing all of your expectations. His tongue moved alongside yours so smoothly, like this wasn’t your first time kissing each other, and you found yourself struggling to keep up with the passion he put into the lip lock.

You didn’t know when he had done it, but as he cupped your breasts with his hands, you realized that he had removed all of your top layers. You broke away from the kiss with a moan as he squeezed your chest under his large hands. You squirmed back further onto the large bed, and Líf took the opportunity to slide your pants down, unzipping your boots and removing them as well.

Now just in your panties, you had no time to feel self-conscious as Líf climbed back on the bed as well, his eyes on your body and an ever so slight red tint to his cheeks.

“Can I…?” Líf seemed hesitant to finish his sentence as he stared at your underwear.

You smiled at him in a way that you desperately hoped was attractive, lifting your hips up as an invitation instead of words. He followed your lead, his hands drifting to your hips to slide your panties down your legs and then toss them off of the bed. He stared down at you, one hand moving from its place on your hip to gently move over your currently oversensitive nerves, the sensation making you close your eyes with a shudder.

He seemed to know exactly what made you squirm, zeroing in on the motions on your clit that made you squirm and cry out and repeating them until you couldn’t take it anymore. You opened your eyes again, hand going to brush his fingers away from your body.

“Please… I want you,” you pleaded, unable to look away from his throat as he swallowed at your words. “That means in me, Alfonse,” you teased, and he stared down at you like you were prey, which sent a shiver down your spine.

His expression turned determined as he grasped his cock, and you tried to move your legs apart as much as you could to give him room. He stared down at you for a moment before he grabbed your thighs, and you squeaked in surprise as he pulled your hips flush with his, your legs forced to bend on either side of his hips to accommodate the position. You were basically sitting in his lap, your breasts brushing against his chest with every breath.

You immediately felt the prod of his cock against your clit, and the sensation jolted you forward, your head falling onto his shoulder. His focus was on connecting the two of you, and you moaned into his neck as he began to push inside you. You gripped at his back and shoulders, and he groaned loudly as he fully sunk into your cunt.

“My love,” he whispered into your ear, and you moaned his name back.

He encouraged you to wrap your legs around his hips, and as soon as you did, he slid halfway out and then rocked back in, repeating the motion and sending waves of pleasure through you. You panted into his shoulder, your throat already feeling somewhat dry as he pounded into you. You did your best to rock your hips along with his, but you were much clumsier than he was, getting lost in the sensations and the high of having your feelings returned by the man you had loved for so long. Knowing that he wanted this as bad as you did made you feel impossibly warm in this moment.

You felt one of his hands slide into your hair, the other one on your hip steadying you against him. He pulled your head from his shoulder, gently maneuvering your face close enough to his for him to kiss you. You put your all into the kiss, wrapping your arms around his neck as his kisses got rougher.

After one well-timed thrust on both of your parts, Líf leaned his head back with a low groan of your name. “You feel so good…” he said, barely lucid in the midst of all he was feeling.

You scratched at his back as his eyes met yours, and you wondered if desire was as blatantly obvious in your eyes as it was in his. He was flushed, and looked like he was getting close already, but it wasn’t like you weren’t in the same boat. The close position meant that you could feel every shiver that went through his body, every quiet breath or groan as he brought you both closer and closer to the edge. You couldn’t hold back your own cries every time he hit in just the right spot, which was happening more and more as he attuned himself to what you seemed to like.

“You’re so cute… it’s hard to hold on when you sound like that,” Líf rasped, and you blushed brightly, suddenly aware of just how many noises you were making until he brought his hand down to rub his thumb against your clit in tight circles and you forgot all about your concerns, the only thing you could focus on was how close you were to going over the edge.

Your sounds spurned him on, as he continued to rub at you as his movements got sharper and harder, the feeling almost too much for you to take. You could do little else but hold on, reaching up to pull his face to yours so you could kiss him. You could feel him getting more and more rushed in his movements, his tongue a little slower to play with yours as he put his all into the rocking of his hips.

Líf’s aggressiveness finally abated as he held you tightly to him, stilling on his last thrust and groaning your name into your mouth. His hand never stilled, fingers bringing you to orgasm at last as he renewed his efforts into kissing you breathless. You were sure that your nails were cutting into the skin of his back, but he made no indication that he was in any pain. Rather, his closed eyes fluttered open to look at you with reverence, resting his forehead against yours.

“I love you,” he said, leaning in for a deep kiss that you happily reciprocated until he pulled back again. “It feels strange to be in Askr with no title to my name. Here, I’m just another soldier from another world.”

“We both are,” you agreed. “I’ll have to get used to not being the summoner anymore.”

“You will be when we get our world back,” Líf replied softly. “Until then, I’ll enjoy us sharing the same room.”

[silversouls]

savior of askr: alfonse

OK SO since my fallen alfonse fake quotes got a lot of likes i’d would like to say ty!! it really means a lot to me :,0) this is my way of saying thanks for the likes! also disclaimer for brave alfonse: brave alfonse is based off headcanons/au where he defeated alfaðör/became king of askr, which mean NONE OF THIS IS CANON. his bow valhalla, is not canon either! it is purely my take. anyways this doesn’t include stats! i hope you all enjoy this as much as i did writing this!

name: 

savior of askr: alfonse

rarity:

5 star, non legendary/mythic

type:

green archer armored unit

info:

the prince of askr who stopped alfaðör and took his place as king of askr. has taken a liking to the sacred bow of askr, valhalla.

being summoned:

i am king alfonse of a peaceful askr. please, allow me to grant you my strength in battle.

home:

although i’ve donned valhalla and now king of askr, i assure you i’m still the same old alfonse.

when i was battling alfaðör, i felt like i couldn’t stand up against him. but knowing i had you and all the heroes on my side is what helped me defeat him in the end.

hey (summoner), can you get my cape out from my armor? it’s stuck, thank for taking it out. guess i still have to get used to this whole “king of askr” thing...

it’s kind of nostalgic and weird seeing me from the past...but what’s to be expected being summoned?

i wonder how the order of heroes in my world are faring. i hope they aren’t too worried about me...

(greeting from friend)

hello, are you the summoner of this world?

(summoner) sent me here to send greetings to you. 

lvl 40, 5 star convo:

hey (summoner), can i have a word with you? when i was first summoned, i was afraid that this askr would fall. but i was wrong to judge so quick. you’re very much like the summoner of my askr, someone who never wavers in battle no matter who you face. i have great faith that you will help lead this askr and this order of heroes to a era of peace.

info screen:

the bow, valhalla is sacred to the people of askr.

hm? may i help you with something?

ah, summoner! a sight for sore eyes.

it’s a bit strange to think i am now the king of askr, but i’ll get used to the title in due time.

it felt like we defeated alfaðör yesterday, but it was ages ago.

i don’t mind all this armor, but i wish it wasn’t so bulky...

i sometimes miss using fólkvangr, but valhalla is a good weapon nonetheless.

map:

at your command.

your orders.

let’s go.

leveling up:

there is always room for improvement, no matter what. (4-5 stats)

not bad, but still appreciated. (3-4 stats)

i’m sorry for letting you down. (1-2 stats)

thank you. i will not let this power you’ve granted me go to waste. (new skill learned)

critical:

in the name of askr!

i will rain justice!

i will not let you go any further!

this is where you meet your end!

defeat:

i am sorry...askr....

[crystalelemental]

“homestuck-and-the-monomyth: I actually really like the conclusion of the Peony-Sharena subplot. Sure, it’s designed to change nothing, but at the same time I think the idea in and of itself is insightful (which probably exposes me as someone with no philosophical background, but hey).

“It doesn’t matter” is something of a simplification in my eyes, when the “because” following that statement is the important part. It doesn’t matter which child returned from the dream world because that’s the one that became the Sharena we know today. That child is the one who took actions, had life experiences, and grew as Sharena, so why does it matter whether she’s “real” or “fake”? She’s real almost by definition. Philosophically I find that to be a satisfying conclusion to come to.”

On the one hand, I agree.  There’s value in the sense of it not mattering who you are in that abstract sense, but what matters is who you are as a result of your experience and who you choose to be.  That’s great.  But you know how long it should’ve taken to go through an arc like that?  About five seconds in a one-off conversation, rather than having multiple scenes throughout the entire book alluding to this being some kind of huge deal.  Considering how rushed the back half of Book 4 was, and how much Freyja and the nightmare fairies suffered from lack of time to seriously develop them, having all of these scenes about who Sharena really is just to end on “It doesn’t matter!” is just a complete waste of time that accomplished nothing but hindering development of the other new characters.  And since we already know Sharena, it doesn’t really do anything for her either.  Like we get book after book trying to showcase how huge Alfonse’s dick is because he’s just sooooo cool, and all they can give for Sharena is a long-running fakeout that was nothing and meant nothing?  Philosophical implications of the conclusion aside, that’s fucking lame.

[mecharlie-fox]

Summoner OC/Quotes

If my summoners were units..... I swear I'll update this once I have every drawing available. Might even put them on layout.

Left to right

(Warning - this is gonna be long)

"The Lady in the Dream, Iris"

Summoned

"Hello there, call me Iris. I am what we call... one of the senior members within the Summoner ranks. Perhaps we have met once in your dreams, do you remember?"

Home

"Time became non-existent for me. I was mostly in slumber, looking after Summoners such as yourself through dreams."

"Oh I'm a non-combatant Summoner. Alfonse never really allows me in the front lines. It's too dangerous, even for me."

"It is strange being summoned here by another Summoner. Why am I consider a Hero in this world?"

"You have a role to play, Summoner. We are all bound by duty."

"Are you busy? Mind if you help me make some refreshments in the kitchen?"

"My name is Iris. I was sent by Friend to give this to you. Hm? I look familiar to you? Perhaps we've already met, once upon a dream." (Greeting from friend)

"Believe it or not, I'm supposed to be dead. My Askr is no more, you see. Not a single soul walks in that world and I still blame myself for it. I had the power to stop it, but I was so consumed by fear that I failed them... Anna, Sharena... Even Alfonse. I'm only alive because fate wants me alive. And I'm bound to you now, my friend. My commander. My Summoner. I will follow you until the end."" (Upon reaching level 40)

Info Screen

"Now, now... Every Summoner must know when to rest."

"You're different from the other Summoners, tell me, are you also a non-combatant?"

"When I first met Alfonse, he was already older than... Well, your Alfonse."

"I'd rather be a lost soul without a purpose than to be Hel's slave."

"Careful now, we don't want to get lost out here, now do we?"

"Oh Alfonse, why did you do it?"

"Valen, please. Learn how to rest. Sigh, this child..."

Map

"Come on."

"Lead and I'll follow."

"Hmmm."

Level Up

"I haven't felt this power in a long time." (5-6 stats up)

"Thank you for the blessing." (3-4 stats up)

"Close enough, I'll do better next time." (1-2 stats up)

"I will use your gift wisely, my friend." (New skill learned)

Critical/Skill

"Fight me!"

"Never underestimate me!"

"You face a child of Frey!"

"So be it."

Defeat

"Alfonse... Please..."

"Hel's Executioner, Ragnar"

Summoned

"Great, not again... Let's get this over with, I'm Ragnar, Hel's Grand General."

Home

"Me? A Summoner? Ah, you've been talking to Iris. Don't listen to that old woman, she's full of nonsense."

"Yes, this is Sharena's lance... I could tell by your eyes you already know what happened to her in my world."

"Just say the word and I'll do it."

"You're no Valen, but you've earned my respect. Maybe one day you and I can fight together in the front lines. You do know how to fight, right?"

"Lìf is nice, he'll get around eventually. You have my word."

"I'm Friend's Grand General, just take the gift so I can go already." (Greeting from friend)

"I'm old enough to know that a longer life isn't a better one. Believe it or not, my Askr was at peace with Embla. I had the chance to go home but I stayed, met a wonderful woman and promises that we will spend the rest of our lives together... But the other thing happened. I miss her, yes. I still love her. But if I dedicate my life on bringing her back, it'll be nothing more than a goose chase. I accepted the fact that she's gone. And we shouldn't tamper with the dead. We lose love ones, that's part of life. Sharena would want me to live, Summoner. Not waste my life on impossible dreams. I fight for her memory, that's all I could do. And maybe one day, we'll be reunited in death." (Upon reaching level 40)

Info Screen

"You're slacking around? Want me to join you?"

"This Askr mirrors my own. Will you believe me if I say that I was also a non-combatant?"

"Yes, yes, I was a Summoner. Happy?"

"It was Zacharias who taught me how to wield a lance, actually. With a little help from Sharena, of course."

"I was a singer before becoming a Summoner. Though... I've been out of practice for centuries."

"Other weapons? Yeah, the Commander made me pick up an Axe once. Broke the wall with it and Alfonse got furious."

"I have my own opinions on other Summoners. But we all have one goal, peace. Hopefully, you share the same feelings."

Map

"Let's go."

"Bring it."

"I'm following."

Level Up

"Never thought I'd learn something new, thank you." (5-6 stats up)

"This makes me feel alive again." (3-4 stats up)

"Really? Zacharias must me laughing in his grave by now." (1-2 stats up)

"I'll do my best to meet your expectations." (New skill learned)

Critical/Skill

"So uncivilized."

"GAAAH!"

"There's more to that!"

"I'm not a boy anymore!"

Defeat

"My time... Has come..."

"The Undaunted Queen, Valen"

Summoned

"I am Valen, daughter of Aric. Have the tides of destiny wash me here with you, Summoner?"

Home

"My role was to serve and support, until my brother disappeared, I suddenly found myself in center stage. It is strange, what destiny has offered me."

"When I was young, my father thought me divine and my mother thought me weak. Which am I, Summoner? Weak or divine?

"You are my general, I will follow you no matter what."

"I was once a Summoner of Askr myself. Until duty demanded my return to Vanaheim. Perhaps the tides of destiny brought me here for a purpose."

"I didn't know you were such a slacker, Summoner."

"I am Valen, daughter of Aric. I bring blessings from Friend." (Greeting from friend)

"I believed that my destiny was to simply lead soldiers into a battlefield as a general, and a general alone. I never dreamed of carrying the burden of the crown until the awful reality that... My brother will never come home finally made me realize, that destiny can be cruel. My father died bravely on the battlefield, maybe I will share the same fate as him. They're waiting for me, you know... My family. I will see them again, but not yet. Not until this war is over, and when when enough men have died, perhaps I will finally have peace upon my soul. My life is yours Summoner, from this day until my last day." (Upon reaching level 40)

Info Screen

"I am Valen... To the people of Vanir, I was named the Undaunted Queen."

"Haha! Your Alfonse mirrors my own, and yet they're two very different people. Strange isn't it? The endless possibilities of different realities."

"I always make sure that the Order's funds are sufficient for a whole year supply, even if that means tricking the commander into seeing a different number than what was actually left for the month. Don't tell her I said that."

"Oh! Summoner! You surprised me there. Say, aren't you scheduled to do your rounds? Mind if I join you?"

"Alfonse is my other half. I will do anything to make sure he's safe."

"Oh, my Sharena? She's my shopping buddy, or at least that's what she calls herself."

"What kind of a Summoner are you? I'm rather curious."

Map

"Forward."

"Yes."

"I'll take your command."

Level Up

"For Vanir." (5-6 stats up)

"Strength and honor!" (3-4 stats up)

"I'll do better next time, I promise." (1-2 stats up)

"I will not waste this knowledge you bestowed upon me." (New skill learned)

Critical/Skill

"Surrender now, or die!"

"Fool!"

"Shield up!"

"Violence it is."

Defeat

"I curse you..."

"The Worthy Prince, Ingmar."

Summoned

"I am Ingmar, Prince of Vanir. I will fight for you no matter what."

Home

"I was called Summoner Isaiah. I didn't want them to know my real name at the time. The library is a frightening place, and I did not wish anyone to know my future... Or even my past."

"As crown prince it was my duty to make sure that I was prepared to succeed my father, until I found myself summoned in Askr... Twice. Or maybe this is the third?"

"Valen was once a curious child, always smiling. Now she's well... Always frowning."

"Haha! I feel fine, Summoner, not to worry. I just always feel sleepy for some reason."

"You're curious about my clothes? Oh! Is it because it's Nifl clothing? Haha! Funny story, well not really..."

"I'm Ingmar! I bring greetings from Friend! Say, you haven't seen my sister, have you?" (Greeting from friend)

"It's odd that the next time I saw my sister she was... well, all grown up. She was nothing more than a child when I last saw her, barely even ten. I worry for her safety, but I know she could handle it. I'm also worried for you. Being a Summoner takes a lot of effort, and because of me wanting to go home, I never thought of the consequences... What would happen if I went home. I wanted to see my family again, I didn't know how it would affect Alfonse or Zacharias. But I promise you one thing, I will never leave you." (Upon reaching level 40)

Info Screen

"Don't tell the commander that my finance report is fake, the real one is with Alfonse. Don't worry! We'll survive through the month."

"Give Valen your paperwork and she'll finish it within three hours."

"I have a special talent for linguistics."

"The people chose Valen to be Queen, that alone is enough proof that Vanir is in good hands."

"You want to learn how to hold a sword? Sure! I'd be happy to help you!"

"The Commander? She's convinced that I'm an idiot... Well, my commander Anna anyway."

"I don't have the same sense of tactics as my sister. I'm more of a front liner."

Map

"Yes."

"Try me."

"Forward!"

Level Up

"All in a day's work." (5-6 stats up)

"Hey, your training helped!" (3-4 stats up)

"Father would have been disappointed." (1-2 stats up)

"I'll use it well but, are you sure it's alright?" (New skill learned)

Critical/Skill

"In the name of Vanir!"

"I dare you!"

"Challenge me!"

"Move it!"

Defeat

"No, please no!"

"The Silent Maid, Largertha"

Summoned

"... I am Largertha. Once a Summoner for Embla."

Home

"I... Have nothing to offer you."

"My eyes? Oh... Before I tell you, I hope you didn't eat anything heavy..."

"Magic helps me move around. Though, Ragnar always made sure I was accompanied by him when I'm up and about."

"Embla... was my home. And Hel took it from me."

"Oh! I'm sorry, Summoner. I thought you were Ragnar."

"I am Largertha. I come with a message from Friend." (Greeting from friend)

"My death went without apology. I hated myself for allowing it to happen, I wanted Veronica back, I wanted Bruno back. But Ragnar was with me and reminded me that they wouldn't want me to suffer so much over their deaths. Hel was my enemy and she forced me into her service. Now I serve you. I will use all of my power to make sure you don't suffer as we did." (Upon reaching level 40)

Info Screen

"My eyes? No need to worry, I am fine."

"Ragnar was useless in the battlefield. He didn't even know how to do strategy."

"Bruno always treated me with kindness. And I cherish every moment I had with him."

"Since the day I became Hel's Grand General, I refused to speak to the witch. Ragnar did most of the communicating."

"All I want is freedom. Not eternity. You cannot find peace in eternity."

"Lìf and Thrasir... This poor unfortunate souls..."

"You remind me a lot of... Ragnar."

Map

"No worries."

"I'm moving."

"Expect nothing less."

Level Up

"Bless your soul." (5-6 stats up)

"Thank you for the opportunity." (3-4 stats up)

"I'm sorry it wasn't enough." (1-2 stats up)

"I'll show you my worth. You won't regret it. (New skill learned)

Critical/Skill

"Submit!"

"I am your living nightmare."

"What is it you fear?"

"I welcome you to death!"

Defeat

"Finally..."

[thewizardessarchive]

RIDICULOUSLY FUN! Klaus & Leon Story - Chapter 1&2

CHAPTER 1 - (1/4)

 Main Character: "Leon, can you lower the hanging light a little?"

Leon: "Sure... like this?"

Main Character: "Perfect! Now, Elias, can you soften the music a tad more?"

Main Character: "And raise the mic volume slightly."

Elias: "Okay, give me a second."

We adjusted the audio and lighting on the stage amongst the bustle of students.

Elias: "It looks pretty good."

After finishing their jobs, Elias and Leon walked over to me.

Main Character: "Yes. At this rate, we'll definitely make the weekend deadline."

Leon: I'm looking forward to this school festival. It will be great if we can pull if off.

Main Character: "We'll definitely pull it off."

That weekend was the academy's school festival.

The official purpose of the festival was to give the students a chance to show of all of their hard work.

But to us, it was just a fun and festive event. Each class was divided into teams to organize special programs or small shops.

Klaus: "Working hard, I see."

Klaus suddenly showed up at the foot of the stage.

Main Character: "Klaus? What are you doing here?"

Klaus: "I had a job in Gedonelune, so I thought I would stop by."

Klaus: "You look almost done here. What are you working on?"

Main Character: "We're going to host a Heart-pounding Contest!

Klaus: "What is that?"

Main Character: "I'm glad you asked! A Heart-pounding Contest involves a group of boys from the academy."

Main Character: "They'll stand up on the stage, strike a pose, and speak sweetly to the audience."

CHAPTER 1 - (2/4)

Main Character: "The points are calculated by a magic-measuring tool based on the female audience's reactions."

Klaus: "I have never heard of a ridiculous magic tool like that."

Elias: "Actually. I invented it."

Main Character: "Isn't Elias amazing?!"

Klaus: "*Sigh* Why are you doing all this for a mere school festival?"

Main Character: "It's not a mere festival! The school festival is important to us!"

Klaus: "What happens to the student with the most points?"

Main Character: "They get two tickets to ride aboard a luxury cruise ship!"

Main Character: "Doesn't that sound fun?"

Klaus: "...No."

Main Character: "What?! I was so sure it would be entertaining!"

Klaus: "Who would ever want to be in an embarrassing contest like that?"

Main Character: "U-um, well..."

(That's the problem.)

Main Character: "Klaus, how long are you planning on staying here?"

Klaus: "Until the school festival ends."

Main Character: "That's perfect! You should be in the contest!"

Klaus: "No."

Main Character: "You could at least think about it!"

Klaus: "Why are you asking someone who has complete their studies? You should ask current students."

Main Character: "Well, we've been having trouble getting contestants."

Klaus: "I thought so."

Main Character: "Please be in our contest, or we'll have to cancel."

Klaus: "MC, don't get so depressed."

  CHAPTER 1 - (3/4)

Main Character: "Well, all our hard work will be in vain if we have no contestants."

Klaus: "*Sigh* You are so helpless."

Main Character: "So you'll join us?!"

Klaus: "Yes. On one condition, though."

Klaus: "MC, your reaction has to be measured as well."

Main Character: "What? Why?"

Leon: "Wait. If that's the case, I'll be a contestant, too."

Leon suddenly jumped into the conversation.

Main Character: "Leon, you will?!"

Leon: "As long as you cheer me on, yes."

Klaus: "I will be the one she cheers on."

(Oh no, now what...?!)

 CHOICE: "You have my blessing. Leon."

Main Character: "You have my blessing, Leon!"

Leon: "Okay, then I'll go all out."

Leon: "I'm not losing to Klaus."

All of a sudden, Leon was burning with fighting spirit.

Klaus: "You have some nerve not siding with me."

Main Character: "I feel like you could win without my blessing."

Klaus: "You bet I could. I will not lose to him."

Klaus: "Did you hear that, Leon? I will win this contest."

Klaus shot a challenging look at Leon.

I could almost see sparks fly as the two guys glared at each other.

CHOICE: "You have my blessing, Klaus."

Main Character: "You have my blessing, Klaus!"

Klaus: "Good girl. You learn fast."

Klaus: "Don't worry, I will definitely win."

(I can probably take his word for this kind of thing.)

Leon: "I-I won't lose to you!"

Leon suddenly flared up and glared at Klaus.

Klaus: "Wow, even you can get angry."

Leon: "Klaus, I'm confident that I can beat you."

Klaus: "Fine, I will accept your challenge. You better not run away at the last minute."

I could almost see sparks fly as the two guys stared each other down.

CHAPTER 1 - (4/4)

 (This contest has gotten scarier than I thought it would...)

Elias: "I'm thinking of joining the contest, too."

All of a sudden. Elias chimed in.

Main Character: "Elias, are you serious?!"

Elias: "I can't just let this opportunity pass me by?"

Klaus: "MC, there are a lot of boys at this academy who would fight over you."

Main Character: "That can't be true."

Klaus: "Well, I cannot expect someone as dense as you to realize the truth."

Main Character: "Hey! Who are you calling dense?"

Leon: "Klaus is right. There are a bunch of guys who like you."

Elias: "I agree."

Main Character: "You're all joking, right?"

Klaus: "If you think we are joking, then make the contest for your affection."

Klaus: "You'll see how many contestants will sign up."

Klaus: "If you want this school festival to be a success, use yourself as bait."

Klaus: "You must have the courage to do whatever it takes."

Main Character: "Courage?"

(Leave it to the emperor ti be the voice if experience!)

(I should take his advice.)

Main Character: "Okay, I'll give it a try!"

(I'll do whatever it takes to make this school festival a success!)

  CHAPTER 2 - (1/4)

  Main Character: "Now I need ti turn in the seating arrangement and progress report!"

With two days left until the school festival, I was overwhelmed with preparations.

I bumped into Amelia, Augustus, and Scarlett as I hurried through the courtyard.

Amelia: "You look like you're working hard!"

Main Character: "Hello, everyone! How are things doing on your end?"

Amelia: "We're almost done."

Amelia: "You seem pretty busy."

Augustus: "I've heard a lot about your Heart-pounding Contest."

Scarlett: "They save you suddenly have a lot of contestants."

Main Character: "Actually, that's why I'm so busy."

Amelia: "That's rough. Just make sure you don't push yourself too hard."

Main Character: "Thank you, Amelia. Good luck without your project, too!"

I waved and hurried off.

As I passed through the hallway, I saw Yukiya and Leon together. For some reason, Leon was kneeling on front of Yukiya.

Main Character: "What's going on?"

I quickly hid behind a nearby pillar.

Then, I peeked around at the two guys to see what was going to happen.

Leon: "...I love you for eternity."

Main Character: "What?!"

I gasped at Leon's sudden confession of love.

(What's that supposed to mean?! Wait, I better calm myself down first...!)

Once I took a deep breath and started thinking. I realized what was happening.

(They must be practicing for the contest!)

 CHAPTER 2 - (2/4)

Yukiya: "Leon, it was all right. I think you need more of a twist."

Yukiya: "How about saying it manlier?"

Leon: "Manlier? Okay, how about this?"

Leon: "Follow me to the ends of the earth. I'll definitely make you happy."

Yukiya: "What you're saying is good, but you need to have a manlier tone."

Leon: "This is hard... Okay, let me give it another try."

Leon: "Follow me to the ends of the earth! I'll definitely make you happy!"

Yukiya: "Hm... It's passionate, but something is missing."

Leon: "I don't get it. My head is spinning in circles."

Leon: "I just want to tell her how I feel..."

Leon: "But it's hard to put it into words... Nothing seems to cut it."

Yukiya: "Hmm... Putting feels into words is hard."

Yukiya: "Why don't you try using a dictionary?

Leon: "What's a dictionary?"

Yukiya: "It's a book that defines words."

Leon: "I'll give it a try."

I grinned as I observed the two guys talking.

(Good luck, Leon!)

I quietly walked away without being noticed.

 Main Character: "Phew, I'm exhausted."

Just as I put a hand on the doorknob to the Prefect office, I heard a voice from inside.

(Huh? Who could it be?)

I opened the door a crack and saw Alfonse and Klaus.

Klaus was inches away from kissing his younger brother.

/// Transcriptor Note: That's what the thing says! Sorry for the error.///

CHAPTER 2 - (3/4)

(Woah, what's going on!?)

Klaus: "I love you more than anyone in the world..."

(What is Klaus saying?)

Just as my heart started to race, I remembered Yukiya and Leon.

(Oh, maybe Klaus is practicing for the contest, too.)

Alfonse: "...Nope, my heart didn't pound at all."

Klaus: "Then, how about this?"

Klaus: "Stay with me forever. That's an order."

Alfonse: "It definitely sounds like you, but my heart isn't beating any faster."

Alfonse: "I get that your sales pitch is being the egotistical tyrant."

Klaus: "Who are you calling a tyrant?!"

Alfonse: "Ha-ha, I'm joking. My point is you should try something more unexpected."

Alfonse: "Seeing a side of you that no one usually sees might make a girl's heart skip a beat."

Klaus: "Ugh! Why do I have to practice on you, anyway?!"

Alfonse: "You're the one who picked me. You don't want anyone to know you're practicing."

Klaus: "That's right. I know I can count on you when it comes to keeping a secret."

Alfonse: "But if you want to win, you need to practice."

Alfonse: "It's fun to see you struggle for once."

Alfonse: "But what makes you so serious about this contest?"

Klaus: "It is none of your business."

Alfonse: "Hey, that's not nice. I have a pretty good idea, though."

Klaus: "Be quiet and help me practice!"

CHAPTER 2 - (4/4)

 Alfonse: "*sight* Alright, want to keep going?"

Klaus: "Yes, one more time."

(I'm surprised that Klaus is actually practicing...)

I felt bad about interrupting that I quietly closed the door and left.

Unable to go back to the office, I wandered behind the main building.

Main Character: "Everyone is working really hard."

(I didn't think there would be so much hype about the contest.

Main Character: "I wonder what kind of confession Leon and Klaus will make."

 CHOICE: "Especially Leon."

"I'm especially interested in what Leon will say."

(What will it be like?)

Leon: "I love you, MC. You're the only girl on my mind."

Leon: "...I can't imagine being without you."

Leon: "Stay with me forever, and don't leave my side."

Leon: "Promise?"

(Maybe he'll say something sweet like that!)

(That would be super cute.)

My heart started racing thinking about it.

(Now I'm even more excited!)

Two days left until the school festival.

I couldn't possibly predict the winner of the contest.

CHOICE: "Especially Klaus."

 Main Character: "I'm especially interested in what Klaus will say."

Main Character: "I wonder what kind of love confession he'll come up with."

Klaus: "You are mine, got that?"

Klaus: "I don't want you looking at any guy but me."

Klaus: "In the first place, you must be kissing yourself if you think I'm going to tell you I love you."

Klaus: "If you want me to say that. you should tell me first."

Klaus: "Come on, say it."

(I wonder if he'll be as egotistic as always.)

(If he is, I don't think I can keep a straight face.)

Just thinking about it made me blush.

Two days left until the school festival.

I couldn't possibly predict the winner of the contest.

FIN —

NAVIGATION LINKS

CHAPTER 3 - RIDICULOUSLY FUN! The Ending [Leon] -

CHAPTER 3 - RIDICULOUSLY FUN! The Ending [Klaus] -

[robynmizore]

Redemption Chapter Five

The Picnic From Hell/The Prickly Prince Has a Playful Side?!/Face Your Fears

ROBYN!!!

The Summoner let out a small yelp as Ricken crashed into her, almost knocking her off her feet. 

“What’s wrong?! Is there an invasion?!” she exclaimed. 

“No.. yes! ..Maybe?” Ricken hunched over, panting. “Commander Anna’s called an emergency meeting and she wants all heroes there!”

Frowning, Robyn hurried after him. The next battle wasn’t supposed to be for several days, so what was going on? All the other heroes were already gathered in the meeting room, including the new summons Chrom, Lissa, and Flora’s sister Felicia. Commander Anna was standing at the front, her expression grim as she addresses the army. 

“A very serious matter has come to my attention that needs to be addressed immediately.” Alfonse said somberly from where he stood next to Anna. 

The heroes exchanged uneasy looks as their commander marched over and slammed her hands into the table. 

“You’re all working way too hard! Therefore, we will be taking a trip to the beach for mandatory relaxation!” she declared. 

“Mandatory.. relaxation?”

Niles raised an eyebrow as Anna swept on. 

“We leave this afternoon! Please have your things ready by then. Dismissed!”

The quiet meeting room broke into excited bustle as everyone talked amongst themselves. Robyn found herself just standing there, stunned. She’d been expecting invasion, or a change in their plans for battle. A vacation had been the furthest thing from her mind. Since joining the Order of Heroes, she hadn’t  even taken a day off. 

Do I even know how to do that? she wondered as she listlessly made her way to her room. 

“Robyn!!!”

Felicia’s gleeful call made her turn as the maid ran towards her, carrying a black garment. But before she could reach the Summoner, Felicia tripped over the edge of the fabric and tumbled to the floor. Alarmed, Robyn hurried to help her up. 

“Are you alright?!”

”I.. I think so.. Oh, why am I such a clutz?!” the ditzy maid whimpered, hoisting herself up. She thrust the object into Robyn’s face. “Present for you from Alfonse! He said you don’t like taking that cloak off so he had Flora make a waterproof one so you can go swimming too if you want!”

”I see.. Well, thank you Felicia.” Robyn said, taking the cloak from the beaming maid. 

“Uh-huh! I’m going to go help Flora and Jakob with the cooking! Anna says we’re having a picnic. Buh-bye!”

With a wave, she was off, her pinkish auburn hair bobbing behind her, and the Summoner ducked into her room to change. 

I hope her cooking is better than her balance..

”We’re here!” Felicia sang, stumbling a bit as she helped Jakob and Flora lay out blankets on the sand. The other heroes milled around excitedly, all donning swimwear. Even Takumi, and while he’d brought his beloved Fujin Yumi, he also had an ocean colored fishie bow strapped to his back, and Robyn couldn’t help but giggle at how adorably carefree he looked. A faint flush made its way to the prince’s cheeks. 

“What’s so funny?” 

“Nothing.” she responded simply. “I’m just happy to see you smiling so much.” 

“R-really?”

The flush intensified, and he quickly cleared his throat to compose himself. A dreamy look took over his as he gazed out at the vast blue sea, the ocean breeze tugging at his long, tied up silver hair as the waves lapped gently at the shore. 

“Isn’t it great?” he said, startling her with his unexpected enthusiasm. “The sun.. the sand.. the sound of the waves.. This is paradise! I’m definitely taking a long swim before we go home!”

The glow in his eyes was infectious, and a soft chuckle escaped Robyn’s lips. 

“You’re adorable.” 

She couldn’t resist saying, and the Hoshidan was reduced to a stuttering boy. 

“H-hey now..”

”Time to eat!”

Sharena’s call interrupted them as Felicia carried over the picnic baskets, and by some miracle, managed to set them down without tripping. 

“I’m sorry you had to do all the cooking, Jakob.” Flora sighed. “I had my hands full making swimsuits for everyone.”

Jakob frowned. 

“Um.. I didn’t do the cooking. I was busy with other preparations. I thought you did the cooking.”

Flora visibly paled. 

“If.. if we didn’t do the cooking.. then that means..”

”Oh no..” Jakob groaned, and their eyes turned to Felicia. 

“Eat up everyone! I made it myself!” she said proudly, unveiling the contents of the basket. 

“What.. is it?” Frederick asked cautiously, eyeing the strange foods in front of them. 

“Oh, just some new recipes from this book I found! I followed them to the exact so they should be perfect!”

The heroes exchanged skeptical glances at the array of food in front of them. The tuna sandwiches were absolutely soaked in a red juice. The salad (?) was deep fried for some reason, and there was an odd red paste on the blueberry pie. But.. if Felicia said she’d followed a cookbook to the exact..

”Agh!” Ricken spluttered, coughing after biting into one of the sandwiches. “They’re soaked in cranberry juice!”

Similar groans sounded from the other heroes.

”This tastes like dirt!” Takumi exclaimed, then his eyes widened. “Is.. is it actually dirt?”

”I-it’s deep fried salad with dressing!” Felicia stuttered her reply. “A-and tuna sandwiches with cranberry juice! And blueberry pie with tomato sauce. I know I did it right! I followed the cookbook exactly!”

”What. Cookbook.” Jakob growled out each word as its own separate sentence. 

Looking mystified, Felicia sheepishly held up the book labeled “The Ultimate Guide to Cursed Food Combinations.”

”Felicia! Surely you couldn’t be so foolish!” Jakob scolded while Felicia looked bewildered. 

“B-but Henry said curses were good!” she protested, and all eyes turned to the white haired mage, who quickly put his hands up in surrender. 

“Not those kind!” he exclaimed. “I meant the fun stuff like hexes! And blood magic!” 

“Now what?” Jakob grumbled as the others exchanged uncertain glances. “Dinner’s ruined and we don’t have much else with us at the moment unless we plan to eat sand.”

”Yeah! Let’s make sandwiches!” Henry cackled, and Ricken rolled his eyes.

”We could hunt.”

Robyn turned to see Takumi, who had come over to stand beside her, his fish bow slung over his back. His normally sharp reddish hazel eyes had softened to a light yellow hazel, something Robyn noticed only happened when he was happy and relaxed.

”A hunt would be a good idea.” Alfonse concluded. “The ocean’s right there after all.”

”I’ll start the fire!” Ricken volunteered and Alfonse began to divide up the rest of the group and assigned everyone jobs. 

“We’ll need something like dried moss  for the fire.” Alfonse turned to Robyn. “Mind gathering some?”

”Of course.”

”I’ll tag along.” Takumi chimed in. “It’s not safe to go into the forest unarmed. I can help keep an eye out for enemies.”

Robyn just nodded, stifling a giggle as they made their way into the woods. 

Oh yes! Takumi and his rubber fishie bow would definitely terrify the enemy!

Robyn carefully tugged the dried moss gently away from the tree, then the pile next to her steadily growing. The sounds of the forest drifted around her, relaxing her. Even the most seemingly mundane tasks were enjoyable when you had a friend to share them with. Casting a mischievous glance at Takumi, who had his back turned as he gathered moss from another nearby tree, Robyn pulled some more moss from the tree and rolled it into a mini ball and hurled it at him. It landed accurately in the middle of his back, missing his silver ponytail as it disintegrated, covering his back with specks of green. Takumi jumped, then whirled around to face her.

”Hey!”

With a playful glint in his eyes, he rolled a ball of his own and flung it at her. Laughter erupted from Robyn’s chest as she quickly dodged to one side and took off into the woods with the prince hard on her heels. 

“Get back here!”

While he seemed to be trying to muster up an intimidating tone, the Summoner didn’t fail to miss the amusement they shook his voice. Now grinning, it made her run even faster until the trees were just a blur. It was strange to see the Hoshidan acting so carefree, and Robyn was determined to savor every second of it as her legs worked furiously on the leafy dirt to outpace him. Gradually, the footsteps behind her ceased, and Robyn took the chance to duck behind a tree and listen. 

I don’t hear him anymore so maybe-

Her thoughts came to an abrupt halt, and she squeaked in surprise as strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind and she was lifted in the air and pinned on the forest floor, her back pressed against the ground as Takumi hovered over her.

”Did you really think you’d get away with that?” the prince teased, waving a moss ball in an exaggerated scolding motion. “Now it’s payback time!”

”No! Get it away!” Robyn wailed, playing along as she pretended to feebly bat his hands away. 

“Nope!” he smirked, crumbling up the moss and scattering the debris all over her cloak. “This is your punishment!”

Satisfied that they were now both covered in green plant, Takumi smiled smugly down at the Summoner, who’s body quaked with giggles. There was something about them playing like children that made it impossible to stop smiling. 

“Hey Robyn? Are you guys done getting the moss yet?”

The pair started as Ricken’s voice sounded close by, and the mage stepped out of the trees.

”Alfonse and Chrom caught plenty of fish and I was thinking of grilling… them..”

The mage trailed off slowly as he gaped at the pair, his face slowly turning scarlet.

”I’M TOO YOUNG FOR THIS!!” he yelped, bolting into the trees, leaving the prince and the Summoner staring in confusion. 

“What was that about?” Takumi frowned, then glanced down at Robyn.

Their eyes met, and Takumi suddenly froze, blushing profusely as he quickly leapt off her. 

“S-sorry!” he blurted out, stopping to snatch up his moss. 

Robyn followed suit, dumbfounded. 

What the heck has gotten into him?

She glanced at him from time to time as they walked back. There was a flush on his cheeks, and he was looking anywhere but her. When they got back to the beach, Ricken was sitting stiffly with the others by a pile of wood, his face still white as a sheet. 

“Oh-ho.. What happened to you two? You’re looking a little dirty.” Niles sneered. 

“Get your mind out of the gutter.” Jakob snapped as he took the moss from them. 

The crimson on Takumi’s face had intensified as he shouldered past Niles, earning yet another snicker. Robyn sighed, then went to sit beside Lissa, Felicia, and Caledori. Everyone made small talk as Ricken used his fire magic to grill up the fish. Niles was still donning his signature devilish smirk as the group all passed around the fish. 

“Finally some good food.” Jakob grunted, the other heroes chatting amongst themselves.

Takumi was sitting by himself away from the others, and in a moment of genius, Robyn pulled some ingredients from her bag and whipped together a quick miso glaze before going and sitting next to the prince.

”Oh uh.. hey.”

He coughed awkwardly as he shuffled over to give her more room on the log. He was still avoiding eye contact, and a soft sigh escaped the Summoner’s lips as she picked up her chopsticks, plucking up a piece of fish and dipping it into the miso glaze and holding it out to him. The redness started creeping up his neck again.

”What are you-“

”Try this.” Her tone was gentle, devoid of the awkwardness from earlier. “Just trust me.”

”Um.. okay.”

Mystified, he leaned in and accepted the bite, his eyes widening in recognition. 

“Is.. that miso sauce?!”

”Mhm! I made it myself.” she responded, cheerfully placing the bowl between them. “Let’s share it.”

”Okay.”

While his face was still flushed, the smile he gave her was genuine, and it made her feel warm as they finished the fish in a pleasant silence. When everyone was done, Anna grinned and started laying out blue water tomes in front of everyone.

”What’s this?” Ricken asked, inspecting his curiously. 

“Just a fun idea Sharena and I had.”

Anna and the Askrian princess smirked.

”We’re dividing you all into groups.” Sharena said, clapping her hands together. 

“Me, Alfonse, Commander Anna, Flora, Jakob, Chrom, Cherche, and Lissa will be team one. Team two is Robyn, Takumi, Niles, Ricken, Caledori, Henry, Laslow, and Gregor. Frederick will referee.”

”Referee what?” Chrom asked, looking bewildered as Anna chuckled. 

“Our all out water battle of course! Once you’re hit you’re out! Last team standing is the winner!”

Takumi’s eyes gleamed competitively, but Jakob just scoffed. 

“Hmph. As if you’d ever succeed in making me play such a ridiculous game-“ 

He broke off as a wave of water slapped him across the face, drenching his front shirt and hair to the point where it now resembled a mop. 

Niles snickered as he donned his water tome.

”Sorry, what was that?” he taunted. “I didn’t quite catch that.” 

Jakob’s eyes narrowed dangerously as he brandished his water tome. 

“Oh it is on!”

Felicia was the first to be taken out unsurprisingly. Both teams had been narrowed down to Alfonse, Jakob, and Chrom while the second had Robyn, Takumi, Niles, and Ricken remaining. The four were expertly hidden behind a large rock, carefully planning their next assault. 

“”I’ve got a plan.” Takumi said, drawing some stick figures in the sand. “We’ll have Robyn and I attack from the sides. Ricken, you’re up front. Niles, you sneak up from behind to catch them off guard while we have them distracted.”

”I normally don’t take orders from anyone who’s not my liege. But since you asked so nicely..” Niles drawled, earning an eye roll from the prince and a shudder from Ricken. 

“Here they come.. right into our trap..” Takumi murmured, peering out from behind the rock to carefully observe the trio making their way towards them, following the footsteps they’d cleverly placed in the sand. 

“That’s my que..” Niles whispered, slipping away into the brush. 

When Takumi nodded, Ricken got into position while Robyn and the prince crept in like hunters from the side. 

“I think we’re getting close.” Chrom said. “The footprints lead over here.” 

“Finally.” Jakob grunted. “We can put a stop to this childish game.”

”I don’t know Jakob.. you seemed awfully into it.”

There was a teasing note in Alfonse’s voice, followed by a scoff. 

“Preposterous! I just want to win so we can end all of this.”

“Uh-huh, sure.”

Robyn heard Takumi mutter, then signaled with his hand. The pair burst from the bushes beside them and fired. The trio whirled in surprise as Ricken attacked from the front and managed to take out Alfonse, who threw his hands up in defeat. 

“Ah, a sneak attack! Very clever.” Chrom chuckled as he dodged.

”Clever indeed, but not enough!” Jakob chimed in, launching an attack of his own. 

Robyn and Takumi managed to dart out of the way, but the water struck Ricken in the chest. 

“Aw, damn it!” he huffed, staring in dismay at his dripping chest. “Guess I’m out.”

”And then there were two.” Jakob remarked, and Chrom took a battle stance. 

“Think you can withstand our super attack?” Chrom chimed in. 

“We won’t need to because you won’t survive ours!” Takumi countered slyly, and before they could even blink, two water balls shot out from the bushes behind them and struck the pair in their backs with deadly precision. 

“What the-?!” Chrom started, then sighed in defeat and glanced at Jakob apologetically. 

“I guess that’s what we get for being too cocky.”

”Team one has been defeated! Which means Team Two is the winner!” Sharena cheered, and Takumi pumped his fist with a cry of triumph. 

“Yes!”

Bursting with excitement, Robyn threw her arms around Takumi’s neck, almost knocking him off his feet as she tackled him into a hug.

”W-whoa!” 

He froze in surprise as he quickly caught her, and she immediately felt embarrassed. 

I hope I didn’t overstep..

But to her utter astonishment, Takumi laughed and lifted her into the air, spinning her in a circle. 

“You’re going to give me a run for my money with your tactical skills.” she said when he set her down. “Embla had better watch out!”

”Guess I’ll have to help you plan the next battle.” he responded. 

Evening fell, and the heroes were all gathered by the fire, sitting in a circle. They were chatting amicably amongst themselves as Niles stood up, his eyes dancing with mischief.

”You know what a lovely night like this calls for? Ghost stories.”

”G-ghost stories?! No way! Those are lame!” Ricken retorted. 

“Why not? You scared?” Niles shot back, and the mage blanched. 

“I-I’m not scared! Only kids get scared of dumb fictional stories!” 

“Ah, but this story isn’t fiction.. it’s fact.” Niles chuckled, and stood up and sauntered into the middle of the group, lowering his voice to a sinister murmur. 

“It all started on a calm, summer night, just like this one. There was a nasty old witch who lived in a cave isolated on this very island. She was so vain, so obsessed with beauty and youth that she resorted to.. darker methods to preserve it.”

Ricken and the others listened with baited breath as the story went on, even Takumi who was trying to maintain composure. 

“Legend has it if you go into her cave at night and your reflection in the shiny walls looks grotesque, it will come out and drag you onto the wall where you’ll be trapped forever. Meanwhile, the witch will take on your appearance, luring all of your loved ones right into the cave where..”

Niles paused dramatically for effect before snarling 

“They DIE!!!”

Startled gasps escaped the circle as Niles cackled wickedly and snuffed out the fire abruptly.

”Goodnight.. sleep tight.” he sneered as he waltzed to his tent. 

A foreboding silence hovered over the group, finally broken by Felicia’s nervous giggle.

”W-well that was fun! G-guess we should head to bed now!”

The others mumbled in agreement, hesitantly making their way to their tents. Not far off, the entrance to the cave further up the beach glowed ominously in the moonlight. Robyn sighed as she settled into her tent. She had secretly enjoyed the story, and once in awhile she got a thrill out of scaring herself with horror stories before bed. The other heroes on the other hand, were left quite jumpy. 

I have a feeling this is going to be a long night..

Strong hands on her shoulders shook her awake, and it was still dark out when she opened her eyes to see Ricken crouched over her, his pupils as wide as full moons.

”I-It’s real!” Ricken gasped out in panic. 

“What’s real?” Robyn asked, frowning as she sat up. 

“The ghost! Niles wasn’t joking!”

Robyn was instantly alert, her interest piqued. 

“You saw it?”

”W-well no, but I went into the cave and-“

”You went into the cave?!”

Now Robyn was impressed. While he’d never admit it, she knew the story had shook him to his core, and she hadn’t expected him to be so.. bold. 

“M-my reflection was glaring at me! It was horrifying! I got out of there as fast as I could b-but what if it comes after me?!”

”Hm..”

Robyn stood, smoothing out her cloak and tucking her Briedablik under her arm as she started towards the entrance of the tent. 

“W-where are you going?!” Ricken yelped. 

“To confront the ghost.” Robyn replied nonchalantly. “If there’s a threat to the army, I want to make sure it’s dealt with properly.”

Ricken followed her as she walked towards the cave, pleading. 

“D-don’t go there Robyn! She might try to get you too!”

”Get who?”

A familiar voice interrupted, and they turned to see Takumi stepping out of his tent with a yawn. For the first time, his hair wasn’t tied up in its usual style, but instead fell down his back, loose and free. Robyn gazed at it in wonder, distracted until he started to tie it up into his usual spiked style. 

“Robyn’s going to confront the witch in the cave!” Ricken informed him in a trembling voice. “Talk her out of it please!”

Takumi scrutinized her, and Robyn straightened up boldly. While he couldn’t see her eyes, she knew it was clear she wasn’t going to back down easily. 

“Nope. She’s not going to listen to me. She’s too stubborn. 

Robyn just smiled. 

“Well, if you’re all done bickering, I’ll be going now.” 

“..Wait.”

Robyn paused as Takumi fished around in his tent, pulling out his bow and a lantern. 

“I’m coming with you. If I let you go alone and something happens, I’ll never hear the end of it.”

”I-I’ll come too!” Ricken blustered, and they fell into step on either side of Takumi as he lead the way into the cave. 

Robyn stifled a giggle at how jumpy Ricken was, flinching at even the slightest sound.

”T-that’s where I saw it!” Ricken said, pointing at the glass like walls up ahead. 

Takumi rolled his eyes as they started walking by the shimmering glass like walls that seemed to give off their own eerie glow, muttering under his breath.

”I’m not afraid of the dark, or “haunted” caves, or my creepy reflection staring back at me following my every step-“

The prince broke off, his eyes widening as he leaped away from the wall shouting

”WHEN DID THAT GET HERE?! GET IT AWAY! GET IT AWAY!”

”Takumi calm down-“

Robyn tried to console him, but the prince wasn’t listening as his Fujin Yumi glowed in the dimly lit cave, firing arrow after arrow. 

“DIE ALREADY!!!”

Unsure of what else to do, Robyn grabbed the prince firmly by the shoulders and pressed him up against the wall. Takumi’s face flushed crimson as the bow fell from his hands and the Summoner leaned in until she was almost nose to nose with the Hoshidan. 

“What are you-“

”It’s. Just. Your. Reflection.”

She felt her tone soften as she looked into his wide eyes, and slowly stepped back, moving to stand next to him as one hand rested on his shoulder. 

“Look, see? It’s just distorted by the grooves in the walls.”

Hesitantly, Takumi and Ricken looked into their reflections, the realization dawning on them.

”Hey, we’re the scary monsters! There’s no witch! Robyn’s right!” Takumi exclaimed as he picked up his yumi with an embarrassed chuckle. 

Ricken looked sheepish as well, mumbling 

“I feel like a dumb kid now.”

”Can.. this just stay between us? I think I’ve humiliated myself enough.” Takumi asked, and Robyn just giggled.

”Don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me. But let’s get back to the others before we’re missed.”

”Right!” Ricken agreed a little too quickly. 

Takumi sighed, smoothing his damp hair back into place as he gazed out across the ocean. He’d just finished having a good, long swim and had already packed up his things. 

This is the life.. I’m going to miss this place.. he thought regretfully, sitting down on a large rock as the waves lapped soothingly around him. 

He wanted one last look at the ocean before they headed back, wanting to memorize every last detail. A blue glint caught his sharp, hazel gaze, stealing his eyes away from the sea of vast blue. Something was caught on the rock, glowing brighter than the sparkling seas as the prince stooped to pick it up, dangling the chain in front of him curiously. It was a beautiful, dragon shaped necklace, unscathed by the ocean, and when he touched the shimmery blue heart shaped stone in the middle, it filled his chest with a strange warmth. A smile made its way to Takumi’s lips. He had no need for such trinkets, but he liked the foreign warmth that flooded him by just touching it. 

Where did you come from..? he asked it silently. 

With great care, Takumi tucked it into his pocket. 

He had a strange feeling it would be very important later. 

[prettypinklass]

Embla Shenanigans

Genre: Crack

Art Credit: Intelligent Systems (official cipher art)

Warnings: Language, inappropriate jokes

Word count: 1056

Notes: AU where GHB/TT villain characters ditch Askr for Embla.

"Hey, Julius?" 

"Yeah?" Julius looked up from his book, "What is it?" 

"Why is there a target with the blue haired guy's face on it in your room?" 

"Which blue haired guy? Askr has at least 10," Julius scowled, rolling his eyes, "And how do you know what's in my room?" 

"A maid was expressing concern about there being a target with the face of a guy with blue hair and a ponytail being in your room," Veronica crossed her arms, scowling right back. 

"Oh, that. Because Seliph is a bitchass fucker and I want to tear his face off and make him suffer." 

"Stop swearing in front of Princess Veronica!" Xander exclaimed, shooting a glare at Julius from across the room, "You're being a bad influence!"

Veronica sighed, "Okay. I just wanted to know. If you're gonna tear it up though make it less gruesome, the maid nearly fainted." 

"Fine…" 

☆☆☆☆☆

"Alright, scouts reported Askr is sending heroes out on a mission. We're intercepting them and causing problems, what should we do?" 

"We could destroy their food supplies," Clarisse suggested, "Or hit them with poisoned arrows. 

"Murder," Julius said, examining his nails, "Did you see if Seliph was going?" 

"Nope, sorry." 

"Aww…" 

"How about we just leave Askr in peace-" Xander began. 

"We're going with murder," Veronica interrupted him.

Xander sighed. Clarisse patted him on the back.

☆☆☆☆☆

"Look at them…"

Veronica sighed, "Be careful, if you fall I'm not carrying you back." 

Julius didn't answer, glaring at the group of horses, one of which Seliph rode. He ignored the cracking of the branch he sat on.

"Tell them to eat shit for me Ronnie." 

"Do it yourself," Veronica rolled her eyes. 

Julius turned to the group, "EAT SHIT ASSHOLES! FALL OF YOUR HORSE!" 

The shout clearly startled them, and to his great amusement Seliph actually did fall off his horse. There was a yell and a thump.

Julius burst into cackles, causing him to fall off his branch. There was another yell and thump. 

"Idiot," the Emblian princess climbed down, snickering, "Get up." 

"Have some sympathy for a guy who just fell out of tree…" 

"Embla?! What are you-" 

"Nothing, fuck off!" She quickly interrupted Alfonse, glaring, "Come on Julius." 

Veronica grabbed the back of his collar and began dragging him. 

"Xander won't like that language~," Julius raised an eyebrow, his tone teasing. 

"Shut up."

"Can I kill Seliph before we go?" 

"No." 

"Aww…" 

"I'm feeling unsafe," Seliph muttered. 

"Good!" Julius called.

Veronica sighed as she dragged them off.

☆☆☆☆☆

The dining hall was quiet as everyone ate dinner.

"Hey Xander?" Veronica broke the silence, looking up at her friend. 

"Yes, Princess Veronica?" Xander responded, humming curiously. 

"What's a dick?" 

The table went silent, as Clarisse spit out her water in surprise. Julius began laughing, nearly falling off his chair. 

"W-Who taught you that word?!" Xander demanded, his shocked face quickly turning into a frown. 

"I heard Clarisse shout she was going to 'grow a dick and fuck someone' earlier. What does that mean?" 

Clarisse choked on the water left in her mouth. Julius actually fell off his chair this time, the intensity of his laughter rising. 

Xander glared at Clarisse, and she gulped. 

"I didn't even know she was there, promise!" Clarisse exclaimed quickly, raising her hands in a defensive motion.

"You should not be saying things like that in the first place!" Xander retorted, scowling, "What in the world- er, world's, could've caused you to say a thing such as that?!" 

"The guy was being an ass-" 

"Can someone just explain what that means?!" Veronica scowled, crossing her arms. 

"Well Princess Veronica, if you want I can show you-" 

"NO!" Xander and Clarisse both shouted at Julius, who began laughing again, with the former raising his sword.

"I'm kidding, put the sword down!" The redhead snickered, and then turned to Veronica, "It's something that guys put into girl's asses to impregnate them." 

Veronica blinked.

"Could you have explained that with ANY sense of decency?" Clarisse face palmed. 

"No." 

"Wait, so… It's something only girls have? Then why-" 

"It's an insult," Xander explained quickly, "Clarisse was just angry…" 

"O...Kay?" Veronica frowned, "I guess that makes sense." 

Later…

"GET LOST BEFORE I GROW A DICK AND FUCK YOU!" Veronica shouted at Alfonse and the heroes. 

Julius fell over, laughing again, "OH MY GOD!" 

Xander gasped loudly, "Princess Veronica?!" 

Clarisse's jaw dropped, her face beginning to turn red. 

"Um… Excuse me?" Alfonse frowned. 

"What? It's an insult! I'm insulting you!" Veronica frowned, "I think…" 

"This is all your fault," Xander glared at Clarisse. 

"I know…" she sighed. 

"Hey, at least it's not mine this time!" Julius exclaimed between laughter. 

"Can we fight now?" Veronica asked. 

"Yes, let's… get this over with," Xander raised his sword. 

"You had me at, fight," Julius' grin turned sadistic, as he opened his tome.

"Right," Clarisse nocked an arrow. 

"O...kay then," Alfonse raised his sword. The heroes copied. 

☆☆☆☆☆

"Do you think I can fit 15 marshmallows in my mouth?" Veronica lifted the bag of marshmallows, examining it with a frown. 

"You're a hazard to society," Clarisse muttered with a sigh, earning her a glare from the princess. 

"And a coward," Julius added, grinning, "Do 20." 

"Stop encouraging bad behavior!" Xander exclaimed, scowling.

☆☆☆☆☆

"...and so I told Julius that his ears turn pink when he's lying," Veronica leaned back in her chair, "and now I can tell if he's lying." 

"And how's that?" Clarisse raised an eyebrow. 

"Watch this. Hey, Julius!" 

She turned as he walked by, and he scowled, "What?"

"Do you love us?" Veronica asked, a stupid grin on her face. 

Julius blinked, and then covered his ears and scowled, "No, don't waste my time with your stupid questions!"

"...Wow," Clarisse watched as he walked away, "Never thought I would end up being on the loved ones list of a demonic dragon god." 

"A what?" 

"Nothing." 

☆☆☆☆☆

"Aha! Got it!" Clarisse grinned triumphantly as she trapped a wasp under her cup, and then began rummaging through her pockets for a slip of paper to slide under. 

Julius appeared suddenly, placing down two more cups. He wore a shit eating grin on his face as Clarisse paled. 

"No…" 

Julius placed the cups down, and began to shuffle.

☆☆☆☆☆

[cinnbar-bun]

New Family

A/n: okay so,,, I love the baby summoner idea a lot and I wanted to do... an interesting take. @pokemagines hope you enjoy!!! Baby Summoner is gonna be a young girl and will just have a made up name I choose, but if you choose to see them as smth else, that’s cool too!!! This is just to make it easier for me, and there is slight... Alfonse x reader??? Or Sharena x Reader, if you want it. ~Spoilers for FEH~ also, this is like a... part one? Of sorts?

Alfonse, Sharena, and the Summoner were patrolling once more. They walked in a clearing that edged between a large forest, making sure no enemies were taking refuge there.

A small rustle came from some nearby bushes and the group stopped. Alfonse drew his sword as the Summoner slowly pulled out Briedablik. The others followed suit and waited with bated breath as the rustling grew louder and closer.

Alfonse stepped forward, leaning his head over to see what was causing the noise, when a small squeak made him jolt back. A small figure jumped out the bushes before they screamed loudly.

“Get away! Get away!” They yelled, falling backwards as they sobbed in terror. Alfonse and Sharena dropped their weapons hurriedly as they went to comfort the young child.

“Hey, hey, don’t worry. We won’t hurt you!” Sharena reassuringly smiled. “Are you alright?”

The young girl sniffled before she nodded. Alfonse crouched down and did his best to smile.

“I’m Alfonse. Prince of Askr. This is my sister, Sharena, and that’s our Summoner, (Y/n).” Alfonse pointed to every person, and looked back at the child. “What’s your name?”

The child shook its head.

“Lif said I shouldn’t talk to strangers.” They quietly mumbled.

“L-Lif?” The three gasped. The child nodded before their eyes watered again.

“I-I... I went off without him and got lost. I don’t know what to do anymore. H-He’s probably very mad at me now.” The child hiccuped and did their best to rub their eyes.

You frowned as you knelt down in front of the child and held their hand gently.

“I don’t think he is. Here, come with us. We’ll keep you safe, okay? You shouldn’t be out here alone.” You knew exactly how it felt to be so lost in a strange new world. The child clung onto you and you squeezed their hand as a sign that you would protect them. They seemed to relax with you.

Alfonse and Sharena got up and looked at the young child again. With what they could see... strangely, they looked similar to you. As if they were a smaller version of you. But something felt off about them, almost familiar, that differentiated the child from you.

It wasn’t the time to think of that, as your patrolling session was coming to a close, and you wanted to make sure your new friend was safe. Sure, they may have been affiliated with Lif, but given his recent disclosure on his real identity, you knew there must be more to this. If he really was the future Alfonse, the one who carried your weapon so long even after he lost you, the one who thought of Sharena almost every waking hour, then surely, he made sure to care for this child for a reason. They didn’t even seem fearful when they talked about Lif, so you could only assume they cared as much for the undead warrior as he seemed to care for them.

The young girl beamed at a bushel of multi-colored flowers and tugged herself away from your hands and ran to them.

“So pretty!” She gasped, she reached out a hand to pick one out but she flung her arm back to her side. “S-sorry... I don’t wanna kill them... Lif said that if I pick flowers I’ll kill whatever life it had. I don’t want to do that.”

You three looked at each other in slight confusion and shock, before Sharena stepped forward. She picked a rose from the bushel and placed it in the girl’s hair.

“You’re fine. Really. These flowers are grown for everyone. Besides, we can always just plant more!” She smiled. The girl opened her mouth before she grinned and nodded.

“Thank you Miss Sharena!”

“Just Sharena is fine.”

“Okay Miss- I mean... just Sharena.” Alfonse couldn’t help but chuckle at the conversation, and he looked at you.

“Hah, it’s almost strange but... she kind of reminds me of Sharena when she was young.”

“Is that so?” You responded. “I think I see it though. She looks so happy no matter what.”

You two looked as Sharena and your new friend were happily babbling about flowers, and the previous tension faded away.

“-and this castle is for the Order of Heroes!” Sharena pointed, and the girl gawked.

“Really? There’s an Order of Heroes? Can I be a hero?” She asked, her doe eyes glimmering hopefully.

“Of course you can.” Alfonse answered.

“Yay! Lif should join too! He’s so nice! Besides, he’s so shy and needs new friends. I think he’d love these flowers!” The girl clapped her hands together.

The awkward silence that ensued went unnoticed by her. You three looked at each other once again, unsure of what to say. Despite his reasons, Lif was perhaps anything but a hero. But in a small part of your heart, perhaps even everyone else’s, the tiny, inkling feeling about how he once was, maybe even still, Alfonse.

“D-do you want to meet other heroes?” You asked, trying to break the silence. The girl held your hand and cheerfully exclaimed for you to take her.

As you two stepped into the castle, Anna came marching in, a tight frown on her face.

“Where were you guys? You had us worried half to death! Time is money and-who... who’s this?” She pointed at the young girl in confusion, and you three awkwardly laughed.

“She was a young lost girl. We can’t have her outside all alone! Especially now with...” Sharena rose her eyebrows and motioned her hands wildly.

“Alright but... what’s her name?” Anna asked.

“Uh...we don’t know...” Alfonse looked off to the side.

“You two...” Anna sighed before she looked at the child. “Sweetie, what’s your name?”

The girl hid behind the crown prince and princess, and Alfonse stroked her head lightly.

“Don’t worry. You can trust Anna, she’s our friend.”

“I-If you say so...” the girl stepped forward. “My name is Henriette.”

You all gasped, and the two siblings froze.

“S-sorry. Repeat that?” Anna asked.

“Henriette. Is my name ugly?” The girl’s lips began to quiver. “B-but... Lif said my name was special...”

“Oh uh... no it’s great it’s just... sorry for scaring you. The Queen is named Henriette too. She’s our mother!” Sharena tried to comfort Henriette.

“Really?! She’s a queen?!” Henriette exclaimed. “I wanna be a Queen too!”

“You will be. Anna, come on, I wanna show her around. I think lots of the heroes would love to meet her.” Sharena explained. Anna seemed to think about something before she shrugged and agreed, the two walking off.

You looked at Alfonse, who seemed troubled as he furrowed his brows.

“Alfonse? Are you alright?” You asked.

“Yes its just... Henriette...”

“What about her? You don’t think she’s a spy or planning something bad do you?”

“While I don’t think it’s out of the realm of possibility, I’m more curious about her... family...”

“Huh? Family?” You rose an eyebrow.

“Well... she just looks um...” his cheeks turned pink and he seemed embarrassed to speak.

“What? Alfonse what are you trying to say?”

“I think she might be...our future child. I-I mean not you and me specifically! But like... maybe? But also, possibly Sharena?” He waved his hands in front of him as his cheeks flared red. You cocked your head.

“What? What in God’s name gave you that idea?” Now that he mentioned that, you could almost piece together a somewhat coherent idea. Alfonse was always good at reading into things like this.

“I mean... she looks almost like you. But similar to us too. She acts just like Sharena. Lif has been watching over her, and he’s...” he couldn’t finish that part. “And her name is Henriette. The coincidences are too big.”

You understood now.

“But... what do we do now? Should we ask her or...?”

“I think it’s still too early to tell. We might need to get it out of her slowly. But this is just my hypothesis. I think it’s best we protect her and let her relax. If she’s been with Lif then... there’s no telling what she may have had to deal with.” He trailed off.

“I understand. I think maybe we should just... let them be? I don’t think they’ve had the chance to be a kid. But we should probably go find her before Anna tries to teach her about swindling people out of money.” You chuckled. You were about to walk away when Alfonse grabbed your hand.

“Um... (Y/n)... I know this is a lot to take in but don’t tell this to anyone else. I don’t want to make things awkward or give them hope about something that may or may not be true. I don’t think it’s fair to Sharena to tell her that Henriette may be her daughter or niece.” You nodded.

“Your secret is safe with me.” His face softened.

“Thank you, (Y/n).” He said your name breathlessly and smiled, “I know I can trust you with this.”

You two walked around the castle trying to find Sharena and Henriette, and after about an hour of searching and asking around, you found the two in the kitchen. Sharena was gushing about vanilla cakes while Henriette munched on some cookies, engrossed in every word the Princess was saying. Feh was on Henriette’s lap, the bird being stroked by the young girl.

“There you two are!” Sharena waved you over. “Come on, I want your opinion about my cakes.” She stabbed a fork into her creation and placed it to your mouth, eagerly awaiting for you to try it. You opened your mouth and ate the cake, sighing euphorically as you tasted it.

“That’s so good, Sharena. You always make the best desserts.” She blushed at your compliments and waved her hand dismissively.

“Oh you’re just exaggerating!”

“But I’m not! Seriously!” You exclaimed.

Henriette looked curiously at you two, and you looked back at her.

“Henriette? What’s up?” She pointed at the window, meekly raising her index.

“W-who is he?” She asked, pointing to a young green haired archer.

“Oh? Do you mean Rolf?” Sharena asked. Henriette nodded. “Oh I see! Do you want to be his friend? I’m sure he’d love to have someone his age as his friend!”

Henriette stood up, causing Feh to flap her wings erratically from the sudden jump.

You held out your hand and Henriette skipped over to you.

“I’m going to have a friend! That’s going to be so fun! What do I say? What do I do?” She nervously asked.

“Hey, don’t be afraid. Just act natural. Rolf is very nice, so he won’t hurt you.” You assured.

You two walked outside and you waved your arm in the air while shouting for the young boy.

“Rolf! Hey, Rolf!” You called. The archer looked up at you curiously and ran over to you.

“Summoner! Hey!” He greeted.

“Rolf, I want you to meet Henriette! She’s a new friend who’s going to be staying with us for a bit.” You placed your hands on Henriette’s shoulders as she bit her thumb.

“Really? Hi, Henriette!” Rolf extended his hand. “I’m Rolf!”

“Hi, Rolf!” She bit her lip before she gripped his hand back and shook it.

“She’s new here and since you’re about her age, I thought it’d be nice if you two got to know each other.”

“Will do, Summoner! Henriette, what do you like to do?” Rolf asked.

“Um... I don’t know? Usually I read or play hide and seek.” Henriette responsed.

“Oh okay! Do you know anything about archery?” He asked. She shook her head. “Alright! Then I’ll show ya!” He extended his hand for her to grip, and she did so without a second thought. Rolf grinned as he began to run, Henriette giggling as she ran with him.

You watched as their figures became smaller and smaller. It was a cute sight to see.

But the happiness was short-lived as you thought of what Alfonse said.

This was possibly my child.

It haunted you, honestly. It was just such a sudden notion, and one you didn’t know how to process. In a future where all hope was destroyed, you had a child... with Sharena or Alfonse. Or, this child wasn’t even yours at all. It was tough to think about. You pushed it in the back of your mind. It wasn’t something you should think of now. Besides, maybe Alfonse was wrong. Maybe Henriette really had nothing to do with any of you, and you were just overthinking.

It’s still too early to tell...

[the-gedonelune-times]

Pent Up.

So a little while back @klausygirl19 gave me the wonderful idea for a short hurt/comfort fic for Klaus and Elias. 

Honestly, I’ve had a couple of ideas like this swirling around for some time now, but I wasn’t sure how to write it. I’ve always hated the fact that Elias, especially in the earlier routes, had been constantly put down. He would be compared to his father and brother at any given moment and would be told about how he was sticking to the book too much. He’s been living in other people’s shadows without truly being able to express himself, so I wanted to try and write a couple of scenes where Elias is finally breaking away from those chains holding him back.  

Though it’s a bit delayed and a little bit on the short side, I hope you’ll enjoy!  

On the outside, Elias seems cool, calm and collected, but deep down he’s actually screaming for someone to listen to him. Pent up emotions are beginning to affect his prefect work and classes and with a sudden visit from Klaus, Elias finds himself pushed beyond the breaking point.

Hurt/comfort

Words: 1,513

Bells rang to signal the end of classes. After what seemed like an eternity, Elias and the other Day Class prefects were finally able to attend a normal class. Classes were easy and the prefect work was easier than normal, so why was it that Elias was feeling incredibly stressed at the moment? Well, the answer was simple: Klaus. Klaus had just arrived in his old office, hoping to chat with the prefects about some new information about a possible upcoming mission for them. At the moment it was just the two of them in the room. Elias was organizing some papers while Klaus sat on the sofa, quietly. 

Though Elias couldn’t confirm it, he swore he could feel Klaus’ piercing gaze on him at all times, almost as if he was judging him, making sure he was doing his job correctly. Klaus had a tendency to speak his mind about what he thought would be the most effective way of doing things, something that Elias took into consideration most of the time, but today he just wasn’t in the mood. He continued to work, getting everything in order for when the other prefects would arrive. 

“I heard from Schuyler about all the progress you’ve been making as a prefect.”

“Oh?” Elias didn’t even bat an eye as he began rummaging for some files in one of the nearby cabinets.

“Yes. He said you’ve grown as a student here at the Academy and you’ve shown a great deal of potential.”

“Potential for what exactly?”

“Well, he said he wouldn’t be surprised if you didn’t join the Ministry after you graduate.”

Elias’ hands shook as he closed the cabinet door, still refusing to lock eyes with Klaus who was beginning to notice that something was clearly going on.

“Alright Elias, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing is wrong. Why are you asking?”

“Something is clearly wrong. You’ve barely said a word and the way you’re handling everything right now just isn’t you.”

“Oh really, so then what is me then?”

“Elias?”

“Forget it. You wouldn’t understand.”

“I highly doubt that. If you just talk to-”

“I have talked to you! I’ve talked to everyone in the family about it!” 

Elias cut Klaus off with a rather large shout as he slammed a folder down on the desk.

“Why can’t you all see that this is way too much?”

“What’s too much?”

“Our name, the Goldstein family name.”

“Yes, it can be stressful, we all have to bear it. Being part of nobility has its drawbacks, you know this.”

“Yeah, I do know and it’d be nice if for one day, just one day I can forget about all of it.”

“What in the world are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about the constant pressure, the constant talks about my future which I barely even have a say in. All I ever hear about is how I would fit right in with the Ministry, how I would be the spitting image of both you and father. Even here at the Academy, I can’t be free from that! I’m always being told about how good of a wizard I am, about how my magic has grown and could continue to grow if I could just stop following the book. ‘You remind me so much or your brother when he was a student here.’”

“Elias…”

“I look up to you Klaus, but I don’t aspire to be you or father or even Alfonse. I don’t want to have my future planned out for me, I don’t want to be in your shadows, I want to be me! I want to do what I want to do, I want my magic to be recognized, even if it is ‘by the book’ I’m not you, I’m Elias Goldstein so why is it so hard for people to accept that?!”

A few tears that had been building up were finally streaming down Elias’ face but were quickly brushed away by the sleeve of his uniform. All the pent up anger that had been building up over the years had finally spilled out, leaving Klaus at a complete loss of words. All he could do was watch Elias take a seat down at the desk, steadily calming himself. Klaus heard Elias sigh and place his hands over his face, letting them drop down to his side, his face was both solemn and enervated. 

“I’m sorry, Klaus I shouldn’t have said that.”

“Stop it right there.” Klaus sighed. “I’m glad you said what you said, Elias.”

“W-What? Aren’t you mad?”

“For what? For you speaking your mind? For you to finally tell me what’s going on? For how you feel? Why would I be mad at you for that?”

“I...yelled at you.”

“You had every reason to. Look, Elias, the reason I’m so harsh on you is because I just wanted to see you succeed in life. But you’re more than capable to do that on your own. I suppose my wants for you were preventing you from moving forward in the direction you wanted to go.”

“Klaus…”

“When Alfonse left us all those years ago, the pressure was put on my shoulders, I had to follow a path that was carved out for me all for the sake of our family name. Despite knowing the feeling of practically drowning in stress, I ended up putting quite a bit on your own shoulders Only now am I seeing the true extent of it...”

“It’s not all your fault, Klaus.”

“I never said it was. But I won’t deny that I didn’t have a role in it.” Klaus shifted in his position on the sofa ever so slightly. “So, tell me, what is it that you want to do. What kind of path do you want to carve out?”

Elias pondered for a moment. “I want...I want to do something that involves magical tools.”

“I say that’s a fine goal. After all, you have a ton of expertise in that field.”

“You think so?”

“Of course. I heard from some of the others about some of the things you’ve built. For example, those magical boards of yours.” Klaus chuckled. “You’ve always been good with those kinds of things. I still remember when you were little and tried helping Alfonse and I with our own magical tools. You once picked up a toy hammer and-”

“T-That’s enough!”

Elias practically shouted with a face as red as a cherry. He groaned and leaned back deeper in his seat while Klaus began to laugh.

“Oh come on, it was cute.”

“Oh, yeah, sure, for you maybe! It’s super embarrassing for me though!”

Klaus laughed. “That’s what big brothers do.”

“Maybe Alfonse should start revealing more embarrassing stories about you then. I’m sure the others would be thrilled to hear some.”

“I beg to differ.” “What’s this about me telling stories?”

Beautiful curly locks of golden hair poked out from the doorway, outside stood Alfonse who, by chance, happened to have been passing by the prefect at a rather perfectly timed moment.

“Alfonse?!”

“Oh? Klaus is here? Did something happen?”

“No. Elias and I were discussing some pressing matters.”

“Oh? Was storytelling the pressing matter? I’d be more than happy to share some!” Alfonse happily walked into the room with a big grin on his face.

“No thank you.”

Without another word, Klaus, who seemed to have broken out in a cold sweat, got up from his seat from the sofa and was now briskly walking towards the door. Before he left, however, he turned to face Elias.

“We’ll need to talk some more later.” 

“Sure.” Elias gave a quick nod and watched as Klaus left.

“What was that all about?”

“Nothing really. We were just passing some time.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes.” Elias smiled and was about to get back to do some work when he stopped. “Hey, Alfonse?”

“Yes?”

“Do you remember those blueprints I showed you a while back? The one of the magical tool that could help increase the effectiveness of magical potions?”

“Oh, yes, I remember! Why do you ask?”

“Well...I thought about it and I was wondering if you could help me. I want to make it and present it to father.”

“Huh? Really? But when I brought that up, you said you didn’t want to do that.”

”Yes, well, I think I’m ready now. I want to show him what the youngest of the Goldstein name, can really do.”

“So, you’re doing this to impress him?”

“No, I’m doing this...for me.”

With determination in his heart, Elias was going to carve his own path to a future he would walk down. No matter what was to come, he was sure he could overcome it, after all, he was Elias Goldstein and he was going to make an impact on the world.