fic: Flower Crowns
Mar. 4th, 2022 03:25 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
bonnefoisTitle: Flower Crowns
Fandom: Fire Emblem Heroes
Character/Pairing: Reinhardt/Ishtar, Deirdre/Sigurd, Midir/Edain, Tailtiu/Azelle, Lex/Ayra, Eirinys/Lewyn (others mentioned)
Rating: PG-13
Summary: On the day of devotion, heroes from a different timeline of Jugdral, one where things had a happier end spend the day with those dear to them.
Word Count: 5,012
Author's note:
Julius (and Julia) is not here because these characters are from an Arvis/Deirdre never happened and Sigurd/Deirdre got to be happy timeline. (It also extends to a lot of so and so lived, so and so had happy lives AU as well.)
Also, the Reinhardt part is because FEH thought it would be a good idea to put one of my Reinhardts in flower crowns for Forging bonds.
All of them were planned, except for Silvia/Alec and Brigid/Jamke, which just sort of happened organically. Like when you accidentally leave two units two close for too long and they get married. The FE4 (and Awakening, with Chrom at least) experience.
Thanks to Sarajaye for helping me brainstorm a bit.
I. Deirdre.
She kept close to Sigurd. She always kept close to Sigurd. Even when she'd had to leave Seliph in care of Oifey, and followed out after Sigurd to the battlefield.
White Flowers adorned her long, white hair. Sigurd had surprised her with a newly tailored white dress for the occasion. It was far more form-fitting than her loose robes, tied up at the chest and was cinched with a large golden belt. She had a basket of flowers of all colors in the crook of her arm.
Sigurd looked at her with such awe, and such a soft smile. He brought his hand to his chest, and caught his breath. Though it had been many years together, he was just as handsome, and yes, as kind as that first meeting.
He looked every bit the noble he was, a prince on a white horse come to take her away from the forest.
"Look at you. As beautiful as the day I first saw you. How many years has it been, now? Twenty? It feels like I just met you yesterday."
Sigurd shook his head. "The time's gone by so fast. Look at how Seliph has grown."
Their son led Lana through the many stalls of treats. Lana clutched to his arm, and blushed when Seliph offered her some sweets.
"That reminds me," Sigurd said.
He had stashed something within his satchel. And now she saw he had a truly remarkable amount of treats stuffed in there, so much that it was bursting at the seams.
"All for you, my love," he said softly.
Deirdre laughed. "Sigurd! I couldn't eat this in a hundred years."
"Then we'll invite the whole army and have a feast."
"Then we must call Edain at once, for she would have to heal them from such a stomach ache from so many sweets."
"What can I say? I thought they would make you smile, and I kept getting them. Before I knew it, I had quite a few."
"You have succeeded, my love. Though I daresay you have a way of finding yourself into trouble."
"And you have a way of getting me out of it," he said.
And he was so charming, so magnetic and handsome, she fell in love with him all over again.
She leaned into him as they walked towards the stalls.
"Twenty years, and to twenty years, and twenty more," Sigurd said.
What sweet years they would be, if they were spent with him.
II. Ishtar.
Today was a day to show gratitude to those dear. There also was finery and sweets to enjoy, in a festival about love, in all its forms.
Friege did not have a festival quite like this, though when they returned, she would form one very like it.
She had left little written notes for her entire family. One for Ishtore, as she thanked him for teaching her dancing and always being patient and kind and the best brother anyone could have. Another for Liza for thanking her for being such a kind sister-in-law, and making her brother so happy.
She'd written out another for Aunt Tailtiu, and Tine and Arthur, and uncle Azelle. A thanks for their joyfulness, their kindness and always brightening her days. Though they lived in Velthomer with Azelle, and she did not get to see them often. Aunt Tailtiu was always full of wit and merriment. Tine was a little shy, but Ishtar could usually manage to coax her out to spend time with the family. Arthur was a bit prickly, but he would warm up eventually.
Father and mother had not attended, or even read them. She saw the dirtied notes, trod underfoot when she went to bring them out to join the festivities.
She tried not to focus on that too much, or let it ruin the lovely day full of gratitude and love. It had always been like this. She had shed so many tears over ignored gifts and closed doors.
For once, she pushed it to the back of her mind and focused on the festivities. There was much to still be grateful for.
She wore a new dress, filmy and soft against her skin. It was far different than the cut of the Friegean royalty. The neckline was gilded, square, and lacings tied up her chest with new intricacies. Her hair was left free from its ponytail for once, with a faint veil with flowers that attached to the circlet at her head, like she was a bride.
She came up to her brother, and he smiled. Ishtore patted her head, like he had when she was little. He nearly displaced the circlet of flowers within her pale lavender hair.
Liza and Ishtore's robes subtly matched, deep purple, like the royal colors of Friege. He wore a sash, and held a bouquet of flowers, surely for Liza.
"You've gotten so big, Ishtar. My little sister's all grown up now."
She was far too old for such childish head pats, now. Her mother spoke of marriage often for her, even daily suggesting this noble or that. Nothing had come of it, however. None of them interested her in the least.
Her lingering hesitance towards marriage was little matter, given that Ishtore was the successor, and already bore an heir with his beloved Liza. A little son that they both endlessly doted upon.
She let him pat her head as if they were children playing in the gardens again, and not him married to his love, and her one of the most sought after ladies of the land for marriage.
It was her dear older brother, after all.
Liza was by his side. They rarely parted. Even in battle they stayed close.
"How sweet. I'm honored to call you my sister-in-law," Liza said.
Their little one was sleeping soundly in Liza's arms.
"Have you seen Reinhardt? I have gifts for him as well."
"He's not with you? Strange, usually he's like your shadow. Always near,"
"I believe I saw him with his sister, Olwen," Liza said.
"Oh, thank you."
She took her leave, with the security that she'd surely see her brother and Liza soon again once they returned to Askr for the night.
*
Olwen had gifts of chocolate for her brother, and her second in command, Fred. Fred hadn't dressed up at first, though certainly Olwen must had added something to his saddle and reins to garnish for the festival.
Olwen wore a long dress of white, with a deep scoop in the neck, large sleeves, and a skirt that came past her knees. Her boots were knee high and laced up all the way.
She smiled knowingly as Ishtar approached.
"There she is, your lady."
"It was good to see you at the festival, brother. You're usually so busy, we don't get to spend much time together these days."
"And you certainly will remind me to take a break at times," Reinhardt said.
"Of course!" she said.
And she left with Fred, off to see the sweets and sights.
Reinhardt turned around. A wind lifted up, and he drew his cloak nearer past the sudden drop of petals. As she found so often, Ishtar found herself captivated by her knight. Yes, he was handsome and strong, the finest knight in the land.
These were simple facts that she had always known. Except as of late, they consumed her mind. She hardly knew what to do with herself, how to keep this from her most trusted companion when she shared everything with him.
But, the words would not come.
He smiled faintly, and nodded towards her.
"They're so fleeting, yet beautiful," he said.
He looked up at the sweet-smelling white pear flowers above them. A rainy night or windy day could knock them all down. Even now, he opened up his hands to hold the faint white flowers than had fallen.
He wore new robes. Not the dark robe and breeches of a Freigean knight, but one more of Askr. White and gold, with thick brown gloves. It made him look almost groom like. What a breathless thought, that. Her mind could scarcely focus upon the thought of him a groom without a flutter in her chest that she did not know what to do with.
"I'm glad I finally found you. Reinhardt, I have something for you. Dismount, please. Then, close your eyes."
"Hmm, you will have to bow a bit. I can't quite reach you. You've grown so tall."
He'd hit a growth spurt one summer and she'd never caught up. It used to be the youngest general in the history of all of Friege was tall and lanky and she wouldn't have to go on tip-toe to reach him. Now, he'd grown into a man, broad-shouldered and strongest in the land. Her childhood friend and protector still by her side, after all this time.
She placed the flower crown upon his head, a note of his lady's favor.
"There!"
He opened his dark eyes again.
"A long time ago, I would give you these. Do you remember?"
Back when they were younger, she had woven flower crowns for him every day when he had to go to meet with the Gelben Ritter and be away from her, so he wouldn't feel lonely or forget her. She'd make him promise to always return to her side. He always wore the crown of her favor proudly, even if others might smirk and joke at his adornment.
As the youngest general in Friegean history, he bore some scorn, but it was far outweighed by the praise of him as the second coming of Thrud.
And he always kept his promises to her.
"Of course. I always dried the flowers and saved them. I pressed them into my magic books to remember the moment by," he said.
Her cheeks flushed slightly. "Did you?"
He opened his tome and showed her a token given long ago, kept flat between the gilded pages.
"Reinhardt...I must tell you something."
He inclined his head. She thought for a moment there was something in his dark eyes.
She cleared her throat and began to speak.
"Thank you for keeping me safe. You've been the most loyal knight anyone could ever ask for and um..."
She blushed even deeper. Usually she was not at a loss for words, especially with Reinhardt. He had been her guard since as long as she could remember, and she had shared every secret thought she had, for she trusted no one more.
They shared a bond of devotion so strong that words defied in.
Though she knew all too well that something had changed along the lines of their friendship, and their status of liege and knight. Something she could not quite put into words for once.
Her attempts to write his note had not gone quite so well. Because every time she tried, she realized it sounded like a love letter. She had countless drafts now. Eventually the day came and she left her letters behind and thought a simple verbal thanks would have to do.
"I... ahem, hope to spend many more Days of Devotion with you."
It was not nearly enough. But the words were not any easier to say to his face than to write in letter form. If anything, they were much more difficult. She only found more things to add to the letter of thanks.
He smiled gently.
"And I as well, my lady."
"Reinhardt, would you escort me today and...stay by my side...always?"
"Of course."
"Then it will be a day of utmost joy," she said.
Because what contentment and happiness to be in the company of her nearest and dearest, her knight, her friend, her Reinhardt.
III. Edain.
She'd decorated his horse's saddle and reins with flowers,. And even his bow was wrapped up in ribbons and blooms. He looked somewhat taken aback at the sight. His long green hair tied back in a ponytail and windswept.
He had the most steady aim of all of Yngvi, and was an excellent rider. And still after this many years of marriage, she'd catch him staring at her with complete adoration and then, pinching his cheek to make sure he wasn't dreaming.
"It is the day of Devotion. I wanted something befitting the best knight of Yngvi. And my favorite knight of all."
"Thank you, Lady Edain...my love."
No matter how many times she told him to drop the term of 'lady' he couldn't bring himself to. Even though that title had been all but stripped, he was eternally her knight and she was his lady.
And he looked just as awestruck now at the sight of her. She'd painstakingly sewn clothes for all of them in secret from the time she'd heard the festival would arrive.
Her dress was more snug than her usual flowing robes, with a thick layer of brocade sewn at each sleeve and neckline. She added a flower behind her ear, and had decorated flowers about her staff and Lana's as well.
It'd taken some skill to keep them hidden away as a surprise, for Midir was as attentive a guard as he was a husband.
"Here, let me bestow on you another gift."
She leaned up and kissed his cheek. She was quite pleased when she felt his face heat. She laughed, softly and kissed him again. This time on his eager mouth. She held his face dear and close to her.
Even after this many years, after they'd raised two lovely children to adulthood together, she could still make him as shy as when he'd first haltingly confessed his feelings for her on the battlefield.
It was cute, really.
She'd sewn him a special tunic, deep white with brocade at the collar, and etched in it was the arms of Yngvi.
"Change into this, love. Lana and Lester have already gone on ahead. I made tunics and dresses for them as well."
"Have they? Good, we must catch up to them soon."
"Seliph is escorting Lana," Edain smiled knowingly.
"Is he? It's hard to believe my little girl is all grown now, and even hoping to get herself a sweetheart. It seems like I turned away to fix my quiver and my children grew up to adults during that time."
"Yes, the time went by so fast. But, you raised them so well. You taught Lester how to wield a bow, until he rivals you for accuracy and precision."
"And you have taught Lana how to wield a staff and heal," Midir said.
"You've been the best knight--and husband--I could have ever asked for. I am so very grateful that you got up the nerve to confess to me. Because I had felt the same for so long. It was so lonely to be so close and yet so far away from you for all that time. You make me so very happy, every single day...and night."
"My lady...has it truly been over twenty years? It feels like the span of a happy dream."
She smiled. "It has. And, I know your secret, it's not well kept. Every day you pray in thanks to the gods that you married me."
"I'll admit it. The rest of my prayers are for you and the little ones' safety."
She kissed his cheek one last time.
"There. Consider it a taste of sweetness to come for when Lester and Lana are asleep. Now, let us go to the festival."
IV. Tailtiu.
"Free sweets, you say? This festival's great so far!"
"Tailtiu, don't get too far ahead that I lose you in the crowd again," Azelle said.
Tailtiu had dragged him all over the festival. First, they'd changed into their special clothes. Tailtiu had spent quite a bit on TIne and Arthur's outfits, for she endlessly spoiled them. She'd remembered to dress in something far more like the attire of a Friegean noble. A sleek sheath dress with a shawl of flowers. Ribbons woven with flowers tied her long lavender ponytail.
Azelle's fine new robes were hidden by his many satchels full of things Tailtiu had gotten for their children.
"You know, you're supposed to spend the Day of Devotion with your beloved...."
She gave him a mischievous look. "What do you think that means, huh?"
Azelle let out a long suffering sigh. "Tailtiu, we are married. We have two children. We have been married for over twenty years. I should certainly hope I'm your beloved by now," Azelle said.
"Yup! Guessed it in one. You're still my crush. And you always will be~ You're stuck with me," she said teasingly.
"Why does that sound like a threat as much as a promise?"
She laughed. "Is it?"
"The promise would be that life will certainly never be boring with you around."
"That's for sure," she said.
She caught sight of their children. Tine's pigtails were braided with flowers and ribbons. She wore a white dress which came past her knees and was cinched at the waist with a big belt.
"Our kids are so cute. When we get back to Velthomer, make sure we have some more pictures painted of them, kay?"
"Is there even anymore wall space to put up more portraits?"
"We'll make some, even if we have to put more walls on the house. Then I can show off this new portrait for the next time Lord Arvis comes over."
"You can't take up too much of Lord Arvis's time like that. Last time you spent over two hours showing him all the new portraits. He's a very busy man! He's the aide for Prince Kurth, after all!"
"Nonsense! You know he spoils Tine and Arthur all the time. Just the other day he gave them new magic books. And they weren't cheap, either. The rumor is that he might even make Arthur his heir, since he never married. Plus, I've got to keep those artists going. We always make sure they have plenty to eat."
"Make it a family portrait. So I can remember what you looked like today," Azelle said.
"I hate staying still for portraits, but I'll give it a try."
Tailtiu nibbled at the chocolate.
"I bet Tine-y would love some chocolate. Make sure to haul some extra, would you?"
"Did you marry me just to make me carry your food?"
"Not just, but it was definitely a factor," Tailtiu said.
Tailtiu laughed at her own joke the whole way back.
V. Ethlyn.
Ethlyn surveyed the stalls, one by one. She lifted up decorations for hair. Altena was tomboyish, and preferring riding to attending balls. Though she could find some pointers for her son, who was quite interested in finding gifts for Nanna.
Quan had once boughten her a pearl tiara at Miletos. Now, she looked for something to surprise him with.
She'd dressed in a shorter dress, pinkish in hue and with ribbons at the back. Her high boots came almost to her knees.
She reached out, only to find her hand met another.
One so familiar, with over twenty years. And yet he looked so princely in his suit of white and gold, the buttons all across his chest.
"Quan?"
"I was..."
She brushed her hair back.
"There's no hiding it. I was looking for something for you."
He could scarcely keep from laughing.
"I was looking for something for you."
"You were?"
"The truth is, it's quite difficult to find you something you want. I've wanted to get you something for a while," Ethlyn said.
"Something I want...Hmm."
Quan smiled.
"You gave me two wonderful children, and your love. That's the best gift I could ever receive."
"Still, I wanted to repay you."
"Share some sweets with me?"
"There's plenty to share, love."
Of course, he always made sure there was enough for Finn, Leif and Altena, too.
VI. Erinys.
Where had he gone to this time?
King Lewyn had wandered across the lands as a bard once. Even as ruler of Silesse, he could still be tricky. He had, more than once, slipped into the clothes of a bard to find out directly how the populace was faring. Given the intrigue he'd seen his mother deal with, he had an innate distrust of advisors and relied on his own views of things.
This made things quite more difficult, as she had sworn on her life to protect him. And when he slipped out of her grasp, it made keeping her promise to him difficult.
Maybe Annand had seen him. She would have to check with her sister, and see. Annand and her pegasus knights were further ahead, all decked out in finery for the festival.
She wished he'd at least give her some warning when the disappearing act would start.
Then again, this was part of the reason she fell in love with him.
Erinys and Fee had donned dresses slightly different for today. They were short and white and lacy, cinched with large belts. The pegasi had different, more elaborate saddles with ribbons all up their reins.
And her trusty spear was ringed with ribbons.
Erinys searched the crowd. For someone so distinguished and handsome, her husband sure knew how to blend in. It didn't help that there were so many heroes in this land with hair just like his. She would be sure she'd found him, only to realize she'd accidentally run into Midir again.
She heard a voice behind her.
"Erinys."
"King Lewyn!"
He had blooms in his hand. He held them out for her.
She took a breath. He looked ever the scion, his lustrous hair beneath a crown and the robes befitting a king.
He smirked. "Miss me? I was finding flowers for you. I had to get just the right ones."
"I-I didn't wish to lose you. The festival is very busy."
"Then stay close. Come with me. We'll surprise Ced and Fee."
She stayed close, and vowed to never lose him again. (Even though she knew she'd probably be searching for him before next meal.)
VII. Ayra.
She wasn't much for dressing up. Fancy clothes got in the way of her swordsmanship. She wore a slitted dress, for ease of movement and practiced her swordmanship.
He had a massive axe over his broad shoulders, and a sure grin as he approached. Somehow, he still managed to have room for a giant sack full of treats. He placed it before Ayra, like an offering.
"Here you go. I fought ten men and a woman who transformed into giant rabbit for this chocolate. And that rabbit was fierce."
"...Lex, they give it away for free. You didn't have to fight anyone for it," Ayra said.
"Oh, I knew that. I insisted."
She gave him a look, and sighed.
"Was it a good fight, at the very least?"
"The best. You want to come along and bring Larc-y and Ulster? Shannan can even come. They've got real good swordsmen out there. The best imaginable of all sorts of lands."
"Fine. I could use some practice. I wouldn't want to get rusty."
Lex chuckled. "Like I'd ever stop sparring with you long enough to let you get rusty," he said.
"Let's go for a rematch. It'll be fun watching you kick their ass," Lex said.
"We'll join the fight as a family," Ayra said.
Lex laughed. "We always make sure to have family time, when it involves swords."
"One more thing," he said.
He brushed back her dark hair and put a flower there.
And then he kissed her hard enough to make her cheeks heat.
After twenty years, a mere kiss didn't make her blush. It was what he did with his tongue, then to pull back with a wink as if he hadn't left her nearly breathless with a kiss that passionate, right in front of everyone.
"Better hurry or I'll get there before everyone else does," Lex said teasingly.
And they set off to the fights, like some childish race.
VIII. Brigid.
She put flowers in that bad at her head, only at her sister's urging. Brigid wasn't much one for dressing up. Then, before she knew it, turn around and her sister went and decorated all the bows of their family with flowers and ribbons.
At least they didn't turn the balance off. And it wasn't too dangerous a day, with tons of heroes about.
A part of the stands had been corded off, as Lex and his family each sparred with heroes from other lands.
As for Brigid? She had the blood of Ullr in her. So of course, she ended up right at the shooting game. Get a bullseye and win a prize.
She might not be a pirate anymore, but mix archery and treasure and she couldn't resist.
Febail, Lester and Midir all shot true. Jamke joined them. Edain had found time to somehow decorate his bow, too.
Brigid smirked as she lifted her bow. With her and Jamke, it was always like this. a contest of wills, and bows.
This time, she won. Though the treasure was no pot of gold.
"Here's your prize, lady," the stand keeper said.
She looked it over. What would she do with a giant stuffed owl? Febail and Patty showed no interest in stuff like that anymore.
She handed it to the nearest child she saw, and drew another arrow from her quiver.
It wasn't about winning, but the thrill of the bow in her hand.
This time, Jamke struck true, and hard enough to dent the target. He smirked, deep and intense. The same intensity and precision which had drawn her to him.
She'd have to chalk this one up as a loss.
"Is that all you've got?"
She'd take a win the next time.
"Save some of these wins for me," Lester said.
Brigid laughed. "You'll have to take it from my hands, boy."
Edain watched peacefully from the sidelines. She cheered equally for all of them, even Jamke.
(Midir didn't claim a single win, even with all that cheering on. Especially when Edain's cheers tended to go to blown kisses to her husband. Brigid thought he might be a little too distracted with her sister about.)
IX. End.
Two dancers twirled in the town square. They each wore short, pink dresses with long white ribbons at the back and a headband of flowers in their green hair. They worked together, mother and daughter on a special dance. One that would leave all the people of the festival completely refreshed.
"Good job. Looking good out there," called Alec.
Silvia giggled and tossed her hair, just for him.
The once-notorious flirt had settled down to only flirt with his wife, Silvia now.
Silvia and Lene had hardly stopped the whole time. They'd worked hard to make just the set to really light up the festival.
Silvia paused for only a moment, and let out a tired sigh.
"You'll have to rub my feet after this is all over, Alec."
"After a show like that? It'd be an honor."
Lachesis called out a greeting as she passed. She'd spent most of the entire day picking out something to show her gratitude for her older brother. She had flowers and bags of tea for him, and a bottle of wine in the crook of her arm.
Ishtore and Liza left early, as their little one needed to nap. Their baby still had flower petals crushed in his little fist.
Ishtar stayed out longer than she ever had at a festival. With Reinhardt near, she had nothing to fear. Regal and calm, his presence was ever soothing. She would have far more to put in her letters of thanks, though they sounded more like love letters than ever. (And at this rate, her letters of thanks and apprecition and yes, admiration and adoration would be the size of tome by the time she was done.)
Olwen and Fred rode home together, full of talk and plans. What a festival, to be able to spend time with her brother, and her second-in-command. And as she looked to him in side glances, maybe more.
Midir hoisted up his wife, Edain onto his horse with him. She always tired out during events. She leaned into him as they drove back, and gratefully hugged him close.
Lester stayed out late, as he always did. Lana was escorted home by Seliph before sunset came.
Lex, Ayra, and their entire family sparred until well past dark. Patty sat on the sidelines and cheered on Shannan. She was the self proclaimed number one fan of Shannan. She'd even started a fanclub and everything.
When they finally left the festival, they had forged bonds with many heroes from different worlds, and had many new sparring partners.
Brigid counted the victories and losses after the whole day. In the end, she and Jamke were exactly equal. No victor this time. She and her family slung their bows over their shoulders and headed home. She didn't have to ask where Patty was, for she already knew that she'd be cheering Shannan on, wherever he was. An utterly exasperated Shannan would eventually bring her back home. That was one thing that could be counted on.
Erinys lost sight of Lewyn, only to find him again, with a several sleepy pegasi in tow. Ced and Fee helped Erinys get the pegasi into the stable before too late. Lewyn watched on. This time, she could rest easy that her husband hadn't gone off flower picking, or taken up the work of a bard again.
Sigurd and Deirdre left the crowd behind. She stayed close, like always.
Ethlyn and Quan returned to meet with Leif and Altena. They'd picked out plenty of gifts to surprise their kids with.
Tailtiu had already begun found new artists to commission for portraits of her dear Tine and Arthur. Arthur would probably be grumpy about sitting still, as he always would, but that was nothing new.
Azelle, as always, carried all the food back.
The sun set on a day of devotion with many heroes. And these heroes from the land of Jugdral knew happiness and peace in this day.
Fandom: Fire Emblem Heroes
Character/Pairing: Reinhardt/Ishtar, Deirdre/Sigurd, Midir/Edain, Tailtiu/Azelle, Lex/Ayra, Eirinys/Lewyn (others mentioned)
Rating: PG-13
Summary: On the day of devotion, heroes from a different timeline of Jugdral, one where things had a happier end spend the day with those dear to them.
Word Count: 5,012
Author's note:
Julius (and Julia) is not here because these characters are from an Arvis/Deirdre never happened and Sigurd/Deirdre got to be happy timeline. (It also extends to a lot of so and so lived, so and so had happy lives AU as well.)
Also, the Reinhardt part is because FEH thought it would be a good idea to put one of my Reinhardts in flower crowns for Forging bonds.
All of them were planned, except for Silvia/Alec and Brigid/Jamke, which just sort of happened organically. Like when you accidentally leave two units two close for too long and they get married. The FE4 (and Awakening, with Chrom at least) experience.
Thanks to Sarajaye for helping me brainstorm a bit.
I. Deirdre.
She kept close to Sigurd. She always kept close to Sigurd. Even when she'd had to leave Seliph in care of Oifey, and followed out after Sigurd to the battlefield.
White Flowers adorned her long, white hair. Sigurd had surprised her with a newly tailored white dress for the occasion. It was far more form-fitting than her loose robes, tied up at the chest and was cinched with a large golden belt. She had a basket of flowers of all colors in the crook of her arm.
Sigurd looked at her with such awe, and such a soft smile. He brought his hand to his chest, and caught his breath. Though it had been many years together, he was just as handsome, and yes, as kind as that first meeting.
He looked every bit the noble he was, a prince on a white horse come to take her away from the forest.
"Look at you. As beautiful as the day I first saw you. How many years has it been, now? Twenty? It feels like I just met you yesterday."
Sigurd shook his head. "The time's gone by so fast. Look at how Seliph has grown."
Their son led Lana through the many stalls of treats. Lana clutched to his arm, and blushed when Seliph offered her some sweets.
"That reminds me," Sigurd said.
He had stashed something within his satchel. And now she saw he had a truly remarkable amount of treats stuffed in there, so much that it was bursting at the seams.
"All for you, my love," he said softly.
Deirdre laughed. "Sigurd! I couldn't eat this in a hundred years."
"Then we'll invite the whole army and have a feast."
"Then we must call Edain at once, for she would have to heal them from such a stomach ache from so many sweets."
"What can I say? I thought they would make you smile, and I kept getting them. Before I knew it, I had quite a few."
"You have succeeded, my love. Though I daresay you have a way of finding yourself into trouble."
"And you have a way of getting me out of it," he said.
And he was so charming, so magnetic and handsome, she fell in love with him all over again.
She leaned into him as they walked towards the stalls.
"Twenty years, and to twenty years, and twenty more," Sigurd said.
What sweet years they would be, if they were spent with him.
II. Ishtar.
Today was a day to show gratitude to those dear. There also was finery and sweets to enjoy, in a festival about love, in all its forms.
Friege did not have a festival quite like this, though when they returned, she would form one very like it.
She had left little written notes for her entire family. One for Ishtore, as she thanked him for teaching her dancing and always being patient and kind and the best brother anyone could have. Another for Liza for thanking her for being such a kind sister-in-law, and making her brother so happy.
She'd written out another for Aunt Tailtiu, and Tine and Arthur, and uncle Azelle. A thanks for their joyfulness, their kindness and always brightening her days. Though they lived in Velthomer with Azelle, and she did not get to see them often. Aunt Tailtiu was always full of wit and merriment. Tine was a little shy, but Ishtar could usually manage to coax her out to spend time with the family. Arthur was a bit prickly, but he would warm up eventually.
Father and mother had not attended, or even read them. She saw the dirtied notes, trod underfoot when she went to bring them out to join the festivities.
She tried not to focus on that too much, or let it ruin the lovely day full of gratitude and love. It had always been like this. She had shed so many tears over ignored gifts and closed doors.
For once, she pushed it to the back of her mind and focused on the festivities. There was much to still be grateful for.
She wore a new dress, filmy and soft against her skin. It was far different than the cut of the Friegean royalty. The neckline was gilded, square, and lacings tied up her chest with new intricacies. Her hair was left free from its ponytail for once, with a faint veil with flowers that attached to the circlet at her head, like she was a bride.
She came up to her brother, and he smiled. Ishtore patted her head, like he had when she was little. He nearly displaced the circlet of flowers within her pale lavender hair.
Liza and Ishtore's robes subtly matched, deep purple, like the royal colors of Friege. He wore a sash, and held a bouquet of flowers, surely for Liza.
"You've gotten so big, Ishtar. My little sister's all grown up now."
She was far too old for such childish head pats, now. Her mother spoke of marriage often for her, even daily suggesting this noble or that. Nothing had come of it, however. None of them interested her in the least.
Her lingering hesitance towards marriage was little matter, given that Ishtore was the successor, and already bore an heir with his beloved Liza. A little son that they both endlessly doted upon.
She let him pat her head as if they were children playing in the gardens again, and not him married to his love, and her one of the most sought after ladies of the land for marriage.
It was her dear older brother, after all.
Liza was by his side. They rarely parted. Even in battle they stayed close.
"How sweet. I'm honored to call you my sister-in-law," Liza said.
Their little one was sleeping soundly in Liza's arms.
"Have you seen Reinhardt? I have gifts for him as well."
"He's not with you? Strange, usually he's like your shadow. Always near,"
"I believe I saw him with his sister, Olwen," Liza said.
"Oh, thank you."
She took her leave, with the security that she'd surely see her brother and Liza soon again once they returned to Askr for the night.
*
Olwen had gifts of chocolate for her brother, and her second in command, Fred. Fred hadn't dressed up at first, though certainly Olwen must had added something to his saddle and reins to garnish for the festival.
Olwen wore a long dress of white, with a deep scoop in the neck, large sleeves, and a skirt that came past her knees. Her boots were knee high and laced up all the way.
She smiled knowingly as Ishtar approached.
"There she is, your lady."
"It was good to see you at the festival, brother. You're usually so busy, we don't get to spend much time together these days."
"And you certainly will remind me to take a break at times," Reinhardt said.
"Of course!" she said.
And she left with Fred, off to see the sweets and sights.
Reinhardt turned around. A wind lifted up, and he drew his cloak nearer past the sudden drop of petals. As she found so often, Ishtar found herself captivated by her knight. Yes, he was handsome and strong, the finest knight in the land.
These were simple facts that she had always known. Except as of late, they consumed her mind. She hardly knew what to do with herself, how to keep this from her most trusted companion when she shared everything with him.
But, the words would not come.
He smiled faintly, and nodded towards her.
"They're so fleeting, yet beautiful," he said.
He looked up at the sweet-smelling white pear flowers above them. A rainy night or windy day could knock them all down. Even now, he opened up his hands to hold the faint white flowers than had fallen.
He wore new robes. Not the dark robe and breeches of a Freigean knight, but one more of Askr. White and gold, with thick brown gloves. It made him look almost groom like. What a breathless thought, that. Her mind could scarcely focus upon the thought of him a groom without a flutter in her chest that she did not know what to do with.
"I'm glad I finally found you. Reinhardt, I have something for you. Dismount, please. Then, close your eyes."
"Hmm, you will have to bow a bit. I can't quite reach you. You've grown so tall."
He'd hit a growth spurt one summer and she'd never caught up. It used to be the youngest general in the history of all of Friege was tall and lanky and she wouldn't have to go on tip-toe to reach him. Now, he'd grown into a man, broad-shouldered and strongest in the land. Her childhood friend and protector still by her side, after all this time.
She placed the flower crown upon his head, a note of his lady's favor.
"There!"
He opened his dark eyes again.
"A long time ago, I would give you these. Do you remember?"
Back when they were younger, she had woven flower crowns for him every day when he had to go to meet with the Gelben Ritter and be away from her, so he wouldn't feel lonely or forget her. She'd make him promise to always return to her side. He always wore the crown of her favor proudly, even if others might smirk and joke at his adornment.
As the youngest general in Friegean history, he bore some scorn, but it was far outweighed by the praise of him as the second coming of Thrud.
And he always kept his promises to her.
"Of course. I always dried the flowers and saved them. I pressed them into my magic books to remember the moment by," he said.
Her cheeks flushed slightly. "Did you?"
He opened his tome and showed her a token given long ago, kept flat between the gilded pages.
"Reinhardt...I must tell you something."
He inclined his head. She thought for a moment there was something in his dark eyes.
She cleared her throat and began to speak.
"Thank you for keeping me safe. You've been the most loyal knight anyone could ever ask for and um..."
She blushed even deeper. Usually she was not at a loss for words, especially with Reinhardt. He had been her guard since as long as she could remember, and she had shared every secret thought she had, for she trusted no one more.
They shared a bond of devotion so strong that words defied in.
Though she knew all too well that something had changed along the lines of their friendship, and their status of liege and knight. Something she could not quite put into words for once.
Her attempts to write his note had not gone quite so well. Because every time she tried, she realized it sounded like a love letter. She had countless drafts now. Eventually the day came and she left her letters behind and thought a simple verbal thanks would have to do.
"I... ahem, hope to spend many more Days of Devotion with you."
It was not nearly enough. But the words were not any easier to say to his face than to write in letter form. If anything, they were much more difficult. She only found more things to add to the letter of thanks.
He smiled gently.
"And I as well, my lady."
"Reinhardt, would you escort me today and...stay by my side...always?"
"Of course."
"Then it will be a day of utmost joy," she said.
Because what contentment and happiness to be in the company of her nearest and dearest, her knight, her friend, her Reinhardt.
III. Edain.
She'd decorated his horse's saddle and reins with flowers,. And even his bow was wrapped up in ribbons and blooms. He looked somewhat taken aback at the sight. His long green hair tied back in a ponytail and windswept.
He had the most steady aim of all of Yngvi, and was an excellent rider. And still after this many years of marriage, she'd catch him staring at her with complete adoration and then, pinching his cheek to make sure he wasn't dreaming.
"It is the day of Devotion. I wanted something befitting the best knight of Yngvi. And my favorite knight of all."
"Thank you, Lady Edain...my love."
No matter how many times she told him to drop the term of 'lady' he couldn't bring himself to. Even though that title had been all but stripped, he was eternally her knight and she was his lady.
And he looked just as awestruck now at the sight of her. She'd painstakingly sewn clothes for all of them in secret from the time she'd heard the festival would arrive.
Her dress was more snug than her usual flowing robes, with a thick layer of brocade sewn at each sleeve and neckline. She added a flower behind her ear, and had decorated flowers about her staff and Lana's as well.
It'd taken some skill to keep them hidden away as a surprise, for Midir was as attentive a guard as he was a husband.
"Here, let me bestow on you another gift."
She leaned up and kissed his cheek. She was quite pleased when she felt his face heat. She laughed, softly and kissed him again. This time on his eager mouth. She held his face dear and close to her.
Even after this many years, after they'd raised two lovely children to adulthood together, she could still make him as shy as when he'd first haltingly confessed his feelings for her on the battlefield.
It was cute, really.
She'd sewn him a special tunic, deep white with brocade at the collar, and etched in it was the arms of Yngvi.
"Change into this, love. Lana and Lester have already gone on ahead. I made tunics and dresses for them as well."
"Have they? Good, we must catch up to them soon."
"Seliph is escorting Lana," Edain smiled knowingly.
"Is he? It's hard to believe my little girl is all grown now, and even hoping to get herself a sweetheart. It seems like I turned away to fix my quiver and my children grew up to adults during that time."
"Yes, the time went by so fast. But, you raised them so well. You taught Lester how to wield a bow, until he rivals you for accuracy and precision."
"And you have taught Lana how to wield a staff and heal," Midir said.
"You've been the best knight--and husband--I could have ever asked for. I am so very grateful that you got up the nerve to confess to me. Because I had felt the same for so long. It was so lonely to be so close and yet so far away from you for all that time. You make me so very happy, every single day...and night."
"My lady...has it truly been over twenty years? It feels like the span of a happy dream."
She smiled. "It has. And, I know your secret, it's not well kept. Every day you pray in thanks to the gods that you married me."
"I'll admit it. The rest of my prayers are for you and the little ones' safety."
She kissed his cheek one last time.
"There. Consider it a taste of sweetness to come for when Lester and Lana are asleep. Now, let us go to the festival."
IV. Tailtiu.
"Free sweets, you say? This festival's great so far!"
"Tailtiu, don't get too far ahead that I lose you in the crowd again," Azelle said.
Tailtiu had dragged him all over the festival. First, they'd changed into their special clothes. Tailtiu had spent quite a bit on TIne and Arthur's outfits, for she endlessly spoiled them. She'd remembered to dress in something far more like the attire of a Friegean noble. A sleek sheath dress with a shawl of flowers. Ribbons woven with flowers tied her long lavender ponytail.
Azelle's fine new robes were hidden by his many satchels full of things Tailtiu had gotten for their children.
"You know, you're supposed to spend the Day of Devotion with your beloved...."
She gave him a mischievous look. "What do you think that means, huh?"
Azelle let out a long suffering sigh. "Tailtiu, we are married. We have two children. We have been married for over twenty years. I should certainly hope I'm your beloved by now," Azelle said.
"Yup! Guessed it in one. You're still my crush. And you always will be~ You're stuck with me," she said teasingly.
"Why does that sound like a threat as much as a promise?"
She laughed. "Is it?"
"The promise would be that life will certainly never be boring with you around."
"That's for sure," she said.
She caught sight of their children. Tine's pigtails were braided with flowers and ribbons. She wore a white dress which came past her knees and was cinched at the waist with a big belt.
"Our kids are so cute. When we get back to Velthomer, make sure we have some more pictures painted of them, kay?"
"Is there even anymore wall space to put up more portraits?"
"We'll make some, even if we have to put more walls on the house. Then I can show off this new portrait for the next time Lord Arvis comes over."
"You can't take up too much of Lord Arvis's time like that. Last time you spent over two hours showing him all the new portraits. He's a very busy man! He's the aide for Prince Kurth, after all!"
"Nonsense! You know he spoils Tine and Arthur all the time. Just the other day he gave them new magic books. And they weren't cheap, either. The rumor is that he might even make Arthur his heir, since he never married. Plus, I've got to keep those artists going. We always make sure they have plenty to eat."
"Make it a family portrait. So I can remember what you looked like today," Azelle said.
"I hate staying still for portraits, but I'll give it a try."
Tailtiu nibbled at the chocolate.
"I bet Tine-y would love some chocolate. Make sure to haul some extra, would you?"
"Did you marry me just to make me carry your food?"
"Not just, but it was definitely a factor," Tailtiu said.
Tailtiu laughed at her own joke the whole way back.
V. Ethlyn.
Ethlyn surveyed the stalls, one by one. She lifted up decorations for hair. Altena was tomboyish, and preferring riding to attending balls. Though she could find some pointers for her son, who was quite interested in finding gifts for Nanna.
Quan had once boughten her a pearl tiara at Miletos. Now, she looked for something to surprise him with.
She'd dressed in a shorter dress, pinkish in hue and with ribbons at the back. Her high boots came almost to her knees.
She reached out, only to find her hand met another.
One so familiar, with over twenty years. And yet he looked so princely in his suit of white and gold, the buttons all across his chest.
"Quan?"
"I was..."
She brushed her hair back.
"There's no hiding it. I was looking for something for you."
He could scarcely keep from laughing.
"I was looking for something for you."
"You were?"
"The truth is, it's quite difficult to find you something you want. I've wanted to get you something for a while," Ethlyn said.
"Something I want...Hmm."
Quan smiled.
"You gave me two wonderful children, and your love. That's the best gift I could ever receive."
"Still, I wanted to repay you."
"Share some sweets with me?"
"There's plenty to share, love."
Of course, he always made sure there was enough for Finn, Leif and Altena, too.
VI. Erinys.
Where had he gone to this time?
King Lewyn had wandered across the lands as a bard once. Even as ruler of Silesse, he could still be tricky. He had, more than once, slipped into the clothes of a bard to find out directly how the populace was faring. Given the intrigue he'd seen his mother deal with, he had an innate distrust of advisors and relied on his own views of things.
This made things quite more difficult, as she had sworn on her life to protect him. And when he slipped out of her grasp, it made keeping her promise to him difficult.
Maybe Annand had seen him. She would have to check with her sister, and see. Annand and her pegasus knights were further ahead, all decked out in finery for the festival.
She wished he'd at least give her some warning when the disappearing act would start.
Then again, this was part of the reason she fell in love with him.
Erinys and Fee had donned dresses slightly different for today. They were short and white and lacy, cinched with large belts. The pegasi had different, more elaborate saddles with ribbons all up their reins.
And her trusty spear was ringed with ribbons.
Erinys searched the crowd. For someone so distinguished and handsome, her husband sure knew how to blend in. It didn't help that there were so many heroes in this land with hair just like his. She would be sure she'd found him, only to realize she'd accidentally run into Midir again.
She heard a voice behind her.
"Erinys."
"King Lewyn!"
He had blooms in his hand. He held them out for her.
She took a breath. He looked ever the scion, his lustrous hair beneath a crown and the robes befitting a king.
He smirked. "Miss me? I was finding flowers for you. I had to get just the right ones."
"I-I didn't wish to lose you. The festival is very busy."
"Then stay close. Come with me. We'll surprise Ced and Fee."
She stayed close, and vowed to never lose him again. (Even though she knew she'd probably be searching for him before next meal.)
VII. Ayra.
She wasn't much for dressing up. Fancy clothes got in the way of her swordsmanship. She wore a slitted dress, for ease of movement and practiced her swordmanship.
He had a massive axe over his broad shoulders, and a sure grin as he approached. Somehow, he still managed to have room for a giant sack full of treats. He placed it before Ayra, like an offering.
"Here you go. I fought ten men and a woman who transformed into giant rabbit for this chocolate. And that rabbit was fierce."
"...Lex, they give it away for free. You didn't have to fight anyone for it," Ayra said.
"Oh, I knew that. I insisted."
She gave him a look, and sighed.
"Was it a good fight, at the very least?"
"The best. You want to come along and bring Larc-y and Ulster? Shannan can even come. They've got real good swordsmen out there. The best imaginable of all sorts of lands."
"Fine. I could use some practice. I wouldn't want to get rusty."
Lex chuckled. "Like I'd ever stop sparring with you long enough to let you get rusty," he said.
"Let's go for a rematch. It'll be fun watching you kick their ass," Lex said.
"We'll join the fight as a family," Ayra said.
Lex laughed. "We always make sure to have family time, when it involves swords."
"One more thing," he said.
He brushed back her dark hair and put a flower there.
And then he kissed her hard enough to make her cheeks heat.
After twenty years, a mere kiss didn't make her blush. It was what he did with his tongue, then to pull back with a wink as if he hadn't left her nearly breathless with a kiss that passionate, right in front of everyone.
"Better hurry or I'll get there before everyone else does," Lex said teasingly.
And they set off to the fights, like some childish race.
VIII. Brigid.
She put flowers in that bad at her head, only at her sister's urging. Brigid wasn't much one for dressing up. Then, before she knew it, turn around and her sister went and decorated all the bows of their family with flowers and ribbons.
At least they didn't turn the balance off. And it wasn't too dangerous a day, with tons of heroes about.
A part of the stands had been corded off, as Lex and his family each sparred with heroes from other lands.
As for Brigid? She had the blood of Ullr in her. So of course, she ended up right at the shooting game. Get a bullseye and win a prize.
She might not be a pirate anymore, but mix archery and treasure and she couldn't resist.
Febail, Lester and Midir all shot true. Jamke joined them. Edain had found time to somehow decorate his bow, too.
Brigid smirked as she lifted her bow. With her and Jamke, it was always like this. a contest of wills, and bows.
This time, she won. Though the treasure was no pot of gold.
"Here's your prize, lady," the stand keeper said.
She looked it over. What would she do with a giant stuffed owl? Febail and Patty showed no interest in stuff like that anymore.
She handed it to the nearest child she saw, and drew another arrow from her quiver.
It wasn't about winning, but the thrill of the bow in her hand.
This time, Jamke struck true, and hard enough to dent the target. He smirked, deep and intense. The same intensity and precision which had drawn her to him.
She'd have to chalk this one up as a loss.
"Is that all you've got?"
She'd take a win the next time.
"Save some of these wins for me," Lester said.
Brigid laughed. "You'll have to take it from my hands, boy."
Edain watched peacefully from the sidelines. She cheered equally for all of them, even Jamke.
(Midir didn't claim a single win, even with all that cheering on. Especially when Edain's cheers tended to go to blown kisses to her husband. Brigid thought he might be a little too distracted with her sister about.)
IX. End.
Two dancers twirled in the town square. They each wore short, pink dresses with long white ribbons at the back and a headband of flowers in their green hair. They worked together, mother and daughter on a special dance. One that would leave all the people of the festival completely refreshed.
"Good job. Looking good out there," called Alec.
Silvia giggled and tossed her hair, just for him.
The once-notorious flirt had settled down to only flirt with his wife, Silvia now.
Silvia and Lene had hardly stopped the whole time. They'd worked hard to make just the set to really light up the festival.
Silvia paused for only a moment, and let out a tired sigh.
"You'll have to rub my feet after this is all over, Alec."
"After a show like that? It'd be an honor."
Lachesis called out a greeting as she passed. She'd spent most of the entire day picking out something to show her gratitude for her older brother. She had flowers and bags of tea for him, and a bottle of wine in the crook of her arm.
Ishtore and Liza left early, as their little one needed to nap. Their baby still had flower petals crushed in his little fist.
Ishtar stayed out longer than she ever had at a festival. With Reinhardt near, she had nothing to fear. Regal and calm, his presence was ever soothing. She would have far more to put in her letters of thanks, though they sounded more like love letters than ever. (And at this rate, her letters of thanks and apprecition and yes, admiration and adoration would be the size of tome by the time she was done.)
Olwen and Fred rode home together, full of talk and plans. What a festival, to be able to spend time with her brother, and her second-in-command. And as she looked to him in side glances, maybe more.
Midir hoisted up his wife, Edain onto his horse with him. She always tired out during events. She leaned into him as they drove back, and gratefully hugged him close.
Lester stayed out late, as he always did. Lana was escorted home by Seliph before sunset came.
Lex, Ayra, and their entire family sparred until well past dark. Patty sat on the sidelines and cheered on Shannan. She was the self proclaimed number one fan of Shannan. She'd even started a fanclub and everything.
When they finally left the festival, they had forged bonds with many heroes from different worlds, and had many new sparring partners.
Brigid counted the victories and losses after the whole day. In the end, she and Jamke were exactly equal. No victor this time. She and her family slung their bows over their shoulders and headed home. She didn't have to ask where Patty was, for she already knew that she'd be cheering Shannan on, wherever he was. An utterly exasperated Shannan would eventually bring her back home. That was one thing that could be counted on.
Erinys lost sight of Lewyn, only to find him again, with a several sleepy pegasi in tow. Ced and Fee helped Erinys get the pegasi into the stable before too late. Lewyn watched on. This time, she could rest easy that her husband hadn't gone off flower picking, or taken up the work of a bard again.
Sigurd and Deirdre left the crowd behind. She stayed close, like always.
Ethlyn and Quan returned to meet with Leif and Altena. They'd picked out plenty of gifts to surprise their kids with.
Tailtiu had already begun found new artists to commission for portraits of her dear Tine and Arthur. Arthur would probably be grumpy about sitting still, as he always would, but that was nothing new.
Azelle, as always, carried all the food back.
The sun set on a day of devotion with many heroes. And these heroes from the land of Jugdral knew happiness and peace in this day.
no subject
Date: 2022-03-04 04:44 pm (UTC)Lex: I fought ten men and a bunny for this chocolate
Ayra: it was free
Lex: Yeah and?
The Quan/Ethlyn made me happy, too, it seems lately some folks are into "Ethlyn cucks Quan with Travant" and even if it's not widespread it makes me sulk cause why ruin a perfectly cute married ship for "spicy" cucking? Also I don't care for Travant no matter how sympathetic some adaptations try to make him.
no subject
Date: 2022-03-08 06:32 am (UTC)