fic: A Winter Reunion
Aug. 12th, 2022 02:51 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
bonnefoisTitle: A Winter Reunion
Fandom: Fire Emblem Heroes
Character/Pairing: Reinhardt/Ishtar, mentions of Tine, Arthur, Azelle/Tailtiu
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Ishtar reunites with Reinhardt and Tine reunites with her family during the snowy season of Askr.
Word count: 4,686
Author's note:
This Ishtar is from an AU timeline in that she broke it off with Julius after Julius forced her to dismiss Reinhardt, also she and Reinhardt lived. (Ishtore lived too, though he's not here. Just assume he and Liza are decorating somewhere.)
This was supposed to actually arrive with the other ones around the Winter banner, but I kept editing it over and over. Then I told myself I would finish it for sure by January and...kept editing it.
Some inspiration taken retroactively from this art.
Picked up a fun headcanon that Ishtar is a flirty drunk. She doesn't drink a lot but when she does, phew. I think I just got really inspired by this art and the threads.
She was summoned to cold and ice as brilliant and harsh as the land of Silesse. She pulled her cloak tighter about her, only to realize the dress she had come to those world in was markedly different than her own.
Her new outfit mixed both the fashions of Friege and the current festival. The mid-length ruby colored dress had a slit for easier mobility, and had fancy white brocade sewn to the edges. She wore white leggings which came to about her knees to help beat back the cold. Her boots were quite thick, and tall. Certainly able to handle the snow drifts.
Her hair was pulled back with a ribbon, and she had pulled on a curious hat, like a stocking cap with a little fluffy white ball.
A long cloak fluttered behind her, trimmed with fur.
"Ah, as chilly as Silesse," she said softly.
Before her, she recognized a familiar figure.
Tine hadn't seen much happiness in her young life. She was so often stoop-shouldered and frightened by the sound of chains, or dark places.
She had on a puffy outfit of a short red dress over leggings of the same red, warm earmuffs and little candy-cane decorations in her hair. Her light lavender pigtails were wrapped in ribbons that were tied in bows.
"Tine? You're here as well?"
Tine turned back towards her. Her pigtails bogged as she did.
"Princess Ishtar?"
From behind a tree covered in decorations came another. He resembled Tine, she thought.
Even more, she had the thought he reminded her of Tailtiu.
"Stay close. I'll keep you safe should any enemies come," Ishtar said.
She reached out to touch Tine's shoulder.
"Don't you dare touch her," he said.
And she felt it, the impending storm of thunder magic to be summoned. It always left the air pressure different, and made the hairs at the back of her neck stand up.
"Arthur, it's okay," Tine said.
Tine reached out to grip Arthur's sleeves. He'd put on a festive suit for the cold night, too. Thick red coat came down to his knees, trimmed with tufts of white. His long purple hair, so like Tailtiu's own was caught by the wind.
"This is Askr, not Friege. I hope to heal any fractures which the war has made between my family," Ishtar said.
"Please, brother?"
Tine looked up at her brother with the biggest, pleading eyes. It made Ishtar want to hold Tine close to her, until she could comfort every tear away.
Tine just inspired that kind of reaction in people.
"Here in Askr, it's a season of joy and spending time with family. The heroes spend all night giving out presents to bring happiness to all the children. I would hope to share that happiness with Tine, too."
"Fine. But if anybody tries to hurt Tine, they'll regret it," Arthur said.
He still looked suspicious, and kept near to Tine, but he didn't reach for his tome.
"What exactly is this mission? They pass out presents for children?"
"Yes. It's a tradition in these parts."
The voice was deep, refined, elegant, and deeply familiar.
She looked up, and there he was. Her erstwhile bodyguard.
He'd changed so little in looks. He still was the tall, stately, and dark knight she had known for most of her life.
Except, his attire was certainly different.
Reinhardt had on a pair of festive antlers, and a closely fitted red suit trimmed with fur, and thick black boots. Even his horse's reins and saddle had been similar decorated with twinkling lights, and a matching set of antlers. The sheer fact that he kept his composure in a completely ridiculous festive gear which made her smile even more.
It shouldn't be such a surprise. Any hero could be within the land of Askr. She look over his largely unchanged features over and over.
She'd missed him. It'd been since a long and cold time since she'd been forced to dismiss him. And now, he was here before her again.
He dismounted, and bowed.
"My liege."
"Forgive me, I simply did not expect to see you," she said.
For a moment, she thought she saw a flicker of something. But he instantly kept back whatever emotion she had seen. And he once again
"...If it is a problem, I will keep my distance. I could ask Kiran to keep us deployed to separate units."
"No! No....I don't wish that at all."
He cleared his throat. "I see."
Was there a greater distance now between them?
Of course, this was the consequences, now wasn't it?
She'd never forget the momentary look of pure betrayal and hurt in his eyes before he regained his composure back then. Until her dying day, she would remember that expression and be haunted by it, by him.
Forcing her to dismiss Reinhardt had been one of the last breaking points between her and Julius, but Reinhardt wouldn't know that. All he would remember was the lady he had served so faithfully for so long dismissing him as if he were worthless refuse.
Sending away her most loyal guard, who had been her right hand man for years, simply because Julius did not like him was unforgivable, yet not the worst thing she did in the name of Julius.
"We should join the rest of the heroes summoned," Reinhardt said.
He looked on ahead. She followed.
He was too stoic to read, though she knew he was not so heartless as to be unaffected by her actions.
She followed him through the snowy path. Tree boughs glittering with decorations and frost were on the every side of the road.
Before she could speak the apologies which built up in her, none which were remotely adequate, she recognized Tailtiu and Azelle just ahead.
Azelle's clothes actually hadn't changed much, considering how much red he wore. His tunic was red and trimmed with much fur. He wore an almost comically large red hat, that looked like half a jester's do.
Tailtiu had a big bow in her long ponytail, and had on what must have been Azelle's trimmed red cape. It was draped over her long red dress, full of frills as she was wont to love.
Tine paused as she caught sight of them.
"M-Mother...F-Father...Is it truly you? ...How? I saw you..."
Tailtiu bent down to Tine's level. "Aww! How cute! Are you lost, little girl?"
Tine had such a hurt look on her face. Ishtar could barely stand to look at her without feeling completely heartbroken.
"You don't recognize me....?"
"She must have been summoned from before she had her daughter," Reinhardt said softly.
Tine pulled her cloak close. Her head was bowed. She sniffed, though no tears came.
"I-I see...I was mistaken," Tine said.
"You smile far too much to be my mother."
"Let's go, Tine," Arthur said sharply. His look was full of deep recrimination.
"Allow me to explain. I've been here some time and have become adjusted to the certain aspects of summoning," Reinhardt said.
He took Azelle and Tailtiu aside and spoke softly. Tailtiu's ponytail bobbed as she listened.
"So that's how it is," Azelle said.
Tailtiu came closer to Tine, who had never looked more lost than at that moment.
"You'll be my daughter one day?"
Tailtiu smiled.
"I'm lucky to have such a sweet girl as a daughter. You want to hand out presents together?"
Tine choked back a sob. "...Nothing would make me happier."
"Stay close so you don't get lost, now~ Hold on tight to my hand~" Tailtiu said.
Arthur held back, grumpy and suspicious until the end. But Tine gladly took her mother's hand. They went on ahead with many, many gifts to give.
It was a happy ending, or a beginning. She couldn't tell which. Both, perhaps.
Even if it wasn't her Tailtiu, Tine gladly bonded with this version from her mother from an earlier time. One who still smiled.
"I'm leaving with the rest of the group. There's many presents still to be delivered," Reinhardt said.
Reinhardt was faster than most here, as his horsemanship was peerless. And many others were bogged down with the weight of the heavy coats, and traversing the drifts of snow.
"Let me come with you. It's been far too long since I've seen you. We have much to catch up on."
He inclined his head.
"I would be honored to share your company, my lady."
He didn't completely hate her, at least. She had that comfort and relief.
It didn't lessen the pain of the guilt she bore, but there would be time to say those words. For now, there was a holiday to save.
*
The night was as cold as it was beautiful. The stars shone above, as bright as the little twinkling lights all over the trees. Everyone had donned warm and festive outfits to celebrate this one day full of gifts and happy children.
And that was what warmed her heart the most. These protected, loved children who heroes from many lands worked together to protect and pass out gifts to.
The parents were so relieved as they knocked came to the lit doors. Ahead of them, Tine held tight to her mother's hand as Azelle handed out presents. Even Arthur cracked a smile.
"It's comforting to know that these children will be safe. They won't be subject to the child hunts," she said softly.
"The forces of Askr work tirelessly to keep the lands safe from harm. There are many from all different lands and times, and all impart different powers and wisdom to this land," Reinhardt said.
"Good."
She couldn't stop stealing glances at him. She had dismissed Reinhardt and sent him away. Now, he was here by her side again.
Had he always been this striking? She saw him with new eyes as she noticed his broad shoulders, and the elegant lines of his strong body.
"Friege never had such customs. It's...quaint," she said.
"Would you bring them back?"
"The decorations and traditions, surely. And the antlers of course. For all the knights of Friege to wear."
"If it pleases you, my lady," Reinhardt said.
She chuckled. "It does."
Reinhardt mentioned his sister often, and always with an obvious fondness. Now, Ishtar caught sight of her ahead.
Olwen wore a long tunic of brilliant red, matching antlers as Reinhardt. Her leggings and long boots helped her keep warm in the bitter cold.
"We're running out of time. Onwards!"
Behind her was a not-so-little second in command. Was he supposed to be some kind of helper elf costume?
She sure riled up the troops, as her little battalion charged forward with huge bags full of gifts.
Unlike Reinhardt, Olwen was fiery. They were quite a contrast, especially to see them this close. Her green eyes burned with determination as she pushed her horse, and her brigand on further with their bags of gifts.
She caught Reinhardt smiling ever so slightly at such a display.
"She's become a commander in her own right. I knew it was only a matter of time," Reinhardt said proudly.
A gust cut through, sending snow flying. Coldness stung her Her cloak fluttered in the wind as the wind found its way to her skin.
His gloved hands were at his neck to undo his robes instantly.
"Quick, wrap yourself in this before you catch a chill."
"I don't wish for you to be cold," she said.
"I will be fine. If need be, draw back and take shelter at the castle."
He was at her side again. She wouldn't let him go away so easily.
For years he had been her right hand man. Reinhardt had ensured her utter safety. With him there was a calm, for no one could simply face Reinhardt of Friege in combat and live to tell about it.
Then, in one day, he was gone from her side. She had not fully realized until his absence just how much his quiet presence was to her.
She'd taken for granted that he would always be there with her. And how she bitterly regretted that loss. And clung to this new hope in the wintry air.
"No. I will go on. It is only one night. I will not leave any children unhappy. I've seen far too many suffering children. If I can achieve this, then...maybe in some world, that the children can be saved, too."
"Very well, then. Stay close."
She no longer felt the sting of the wind, but she certainly felt far more... distracted than she had earlier. Even with the task at hand, her mind went back to him, over and over.
*
It was well past midnight when the last of the bags were delivered. It brought great comfort to see these children sleeping so soundly, and to know the happiness the holidays brought them.
With so many heroes, the gifts were swiftly delivered to every corner of the land. Now, Ishtar warmed herself with the lovely drink called 'Eggnog." A strange name for a delightful drink she couldn't help but indulge in.
It had been a long day, and the taste was so nice. A few more drinks, then a few more drinks, then more.
It was very cold, and the sweetness helped warm her up. And by the fire, it was easy to drink the night away.
(Perhaps five large cups were a bit much, but she was quite famished after delivering all those toys, and it was so very good.)
Olwen and Reinhardt helped secure a wreath on the other side of the wall. Both had matching antlers. When he finished, he helped hand more decorations near where she sat by the hearth.
Ishtar smiled mischievously. "Tell me, Reinhardt. Was it Olwen who made your costume?"
"It's traditional garb," he said dryly.
"...The antlers, too?"
"Those were Olwen's doing. She has a matching pair. I cannot tell if this is her revenge, her attempt at mending our differences, or both at once."
He was flushed faced, though she couldn't tell if it was because of the cold or if the Reinhardt of Friege was truly blushing.
No, it must be the cold. It was Reinhardt, after all. Little could ever defeat or faze him.
She rose up from her chair, and suddenly felt dizzy. The sweet drinks went to her head. Perhaps she shouldn't have drank quite so much of it, but it had been so delicious.
Strong arms steadied her before she ever even faltered.
She looked up to see her very own knight held her close to his chest. It was as tender as one would hold their dearest lover. He looked so solemn, and that was no good. Tonight was one of merriment. Even little Tine was smiling again. And Arthur, too. Though his was begrudging.
"Brother, you're under the mistletoe," said Olwen behind them.
Reinhardt glanced up. "So I am," he said solemnly.
She hiccuped as she looked up. There seemed so many plants above them, why remark on just one?
"Mystletainn? The sword that Eldigan wielded? And Ares after him?"
She was against his chest, with her hands against him to steady herself, and she found through the sudden dizzying haze that she liked the feel right here. Very much, in fact.
She shouldn't be surprised. He was the finest knight in the land. Truly peerless in every way. Of course he would be strong.
She had never thought of him in such terms. He was her ally, her protector, and the man she relied on daily.
But after so much time apart, she could not help but admit that her protector was quite appealing in many ways. Distracting and dashing in a way that left her heart aflutter. Dark haired and tall, with intense dark eyes and an almost haunting handsomeness. He was as elegant and graceful as he was powerful.
These were thoughts and feelings she was not accustomed to feeling around Reinhardt.
Reinhardt was careful to keep his distance. Especially since she had been betrothed to Julius. Even with all that care, Julius had despised him so to force her to send him away.
"I'll go hang the rest of the wreaths. It looks like you need some privacy," Olwen said.
"That isn't necessary," Reinhardt said quickly.
Olwen gave him a look, one entirely skeptical, and gave her last goodbye for the night. Her second in command, that knight dressed like a little helper elf awaited her.
"It is better not to say what this is about."
"Do tell me. Please, Reinhardt. What could it possibly be about this plant that is so special?"
He let out a soft sigh.
"...I could never deny you anything, even this," Reinhardt said.
And he explained of this strange tradition. A plant that people kissed beneath. How curious! And how captivating a thought.
"Yes. Well, it is not a tradition of Friege, and thus binds neither of us. If you will excuse me, I have more decorations to hang. Perhaps you should turn in, if you have drank enough Eggnog to be decidedly unsteady."
People kissed beneath mistletoe. What an interesting custom. And now, it was as if she and Reinhardt were fated to kiss.
A thought which was more and more appealing, now that she thought of it.
Would he kiss as well as he fought? Such thoughts of her protector had never come to her mind before, not even once.
Because someone else had always been there. But now, that betrothal was over. She was in a new country, a new land. And reunited with Reinhardt, she found herself wondering such things.
And it felt very good to have strong arms about her. Would his lips feel as good as well?
Bolstered by drink or something else, some sudden and wild idea that came with the sweetness, she rose up from where she had been, comfy against his chest. He was taller than her, so it took going on tiptoe to reach him. His expression held faint surprise.
And what surprise he would get as she cupped his jaw and brought his lips to hers.
He was completely still a moment. His lips were soft, and warm, yet slightly chapped. His arms tightened about her, and to her surprise, he deepened the kiss quite suddenly.
He took control quite firmly, but gently as he kissed her. She found herself pressed tight against his solid, strong body body, her hand against his chest. The flutter in her heart was like a bolt of lightning coursing through her.
Reinhardt was a very good kisser. Dizzyingly so. Her knees felt like water, and only his hands kept her up.
He pulled away suddenly, as if he'd touched flames.
"Ahem."
"I should truly guide you to your chambers before you fall again."
"Oh? Will you keep me warm there? It is quite cold tonight."
He took a very sharp intake of breath. "My lady."
"Oh, I need another drink. My glass is empty...who do I call to refill my cups?"
"You are already well within your cups; that is the last thing you need," Reinhardt said.
She nearly fell again, but Reinhardt kept her quite steady. His grip on her arm was distracting.
"Sleepy."
Even her speech had started to become slurred.
"I should expect so, after so many drinks."
"T'was good."
"You'll regret it tomorrow...Still, let me take care of you," he said softly.
He lifted her up in a bridal carry, and quite effortlessly too. She rested her head against him as he carried her back through the halls. She was a bit dizzy, but even more so, she was aware of him. The strong arms that held her close.
"I'm lucky to have such a knight as you as mine," she said.
"...I am lucky to have ever served someone such as yourself," Reinhardt said softly.
"It has been the greatest honor of my life to keep you safe."
She was half asleep when he opened the door and laid her gently upon the bed.
"Goodnight, my lady. I was....grateful to be able to meet you again, even if it was not within our time and our lands."
But she had already drifted off to sleep, the words still on her lips.
*
It felt as if lightning itself had struck her brain. She had a horrid headache, her mouth was dry, and she felt distinctly nauseous.
A knock at the door felt like a hammer to the head.
She heard Reinhardt's refined voice at the door, slightly muffled.
"My lady? Are you well....Are you decent?"
She let out a groan. "Decent? I am not sure I am still alive at this point."
"Not surprising, after that many drinks," Reinhardt said.
"I have not readied yet. My head is killing me."
It started to come back to her. The kiss. And bolstered by drinks she'd even made such suggestions that she never would've dreamed to have said within a more sober state. Not to anyone, even her formerly betrothed.
The drink had some magic ability to make her decidedly...flirty. And now she had more apologies, when she she hadn't even found a way to voice her earlier ones.
Just the mere thought made her feel exhausted.
Still, she was Ishtar, Goddess of Thunder. She had to rise up, even though she felt half alive, and face the day...and her guard.
Who for a moment last night had been more than a guard. Last night had to be somewhat filtered through the lens of the drink, yes? Surely kissing her Reinhardt couldn't have been as potent and intense as she remembered.
"Allow me a moment. I will get changed."
Through a haze she pulled on the same dress she had worn before. It smelled faintly of pine. She took unsteady steps to the door. A lady did not keep one waiting, let alone her very own, most devoted vassal and bodyguard.
Before he even said a greeting, Reinhardt handed her some kind of drink. It had the scent of herbs.
"Drink this, and you'll feel better. I rose early to ensure I got some from the apothecary."
"Thank you," she said.
It was bitter and cold, but she instantly started to feel the pain begin to fade.
"Ahem. It seems the lovely drink I kept enjoying was alcoholic in nature, and caused me to do some...imprudent things. I was unfamiliar with the drink, or I would've been more...restrained."
"You would not be the first to do things they regret due to drink, and hardly the last. Though next time, I will remind you not to drink quite so much, if you desire."
He smiled, a bit grimly at that.
Except when it came to regrets, she had many. The effects of the war, the loss of much of Friege, her inability to save more children from the child hunts.
"If I may? It would be best to forget last night ever happened. Julius would be...displeased."
To put it mildly. Julius would burn down the entirety of Askr and then every other realms if he knew. But that was hardly an issue now.
"Julius and I are no more. After he forced me to dismiss you, I broke it off sometime after."
She sighed. "I did not recognize him as the man I loved any longer. No matter what I did, I could not return to what we had been. And the things he did...I could not accept them."
Julius had become the vessel for the dragon Loptous. The dragon had devoured everything she had loved and left nothing but a monstrous shell wearing the face of the man she had once loved so. And he had done horrific things, such as order the slaughter of children.
Even if she'd loved a gentle Julius, he was no longer that man, and now ruled Jugdral with the grip of a tyrant.
"Then let last night be considered an...effect of the drink, and nothing more," Reinhardt said.
"I must...apologize for my behavior."
He smiled wryly. "An excess of drink defeats even the best of us, it seems."
"Not simply that."
She looked down to her hands. The hands which had helped fight the Liberation Army, even as they sought to free the children from the Child Hunts. Even as they should have been on the same side.
"I begged him not to kill you and simply to let you be dismissed. And then, I had to send you back in disgrace. I didn't wish to, but that is no excuse. I still am making amends for the choices I made then, and the path I took."
"I hurt you, I hurt Tine, and I took the wrong path. I hated the child hunts, the wars. And yet, I stayed on the side that would keep them. Even when I fought back, and began to save the children, it wasn't enough to stop all the suffering around me."
"I wanted to find a way to bring it back to how it was. And in that, I was on the wrong side. I know that now."
"My lady, I have never, even for a moment hated you. Not even then. I, too, was forced upon a narrow path. Even to fight Olwen. But here, we've begun to slowly fix things."
"But...if I could go back. Would I change it? I do not know. I tried, truly. I could not turn my back on my countrymen, my family, on Julius. Even if it hurt those around me."
"Askr is a world of opening and possibilities. Even for us," Reinhardt said.
"May you find your way to happiness. I am...glad to be reunited, even like this."
She smiled. "I suppose when I pictured us ever meeting again, I didn't think you'd be wearing antlers."
He smiled ruefully at that. "Me neither."
"Breakfast will be soon, and after that I need to patrol the parameters. If you still need to rest, I will inform Kiran that you are feeling poorly."
"No, the potion you ordered made worked wonders. Thank you again."
"Reinhardt, I..."
What could she say? That the imprudent kiss lingered in her mind. Even if amends were made, last night's impulses could not be so easily swept aside.
"Yes, my lady?"
Her face flushed faintly. She bowed her head.
"Reinhardt, I would like to find this mistletoe again. Fetch me some when you are no longer on duty."
"To bring back as a tradition, should we ever return to Friege?"
She couldn't help but blush as she spoke. "To kiss you again."
He remained silent at that.
"Am I too bold? Something has gotten into me, as of late. Perhaps is this new land and all these new beginnings."
"You need not mistletoe to kiss me, my lady. I am eternally yours in every way," he said softly, even solemnly.
"Good. We have much catching up to do."
Not simply as guard and lady, this time. As Reinhardt had said, Askr was full of possibilities.
Fandom: Fire Emblem Heroes
Character/Pairing: Reinhardt/Ishtar, mentions of Tine, Arthur, Azelle/Tailtiu
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Ishtar reunites with Reinhardt and Tine reunites with her family during the snowy season of Askr.
Word count: 4,686
Author's note:
This Ishtar is from an AU timeline in that she broke it off with Julius after Julius forced her to dismiss Reinhardt, also she and Reinhardt lived. (Ishtore lived too, though he's not here. Just assume he and Liza are decorating somewhere.)
This was supposed to actually arrive with the other ones around the Winter banner, but I kept editing it over and over. Then I told myself I would finish it for sure by January and...kept editing it.
Some inspiration taken retroactively from this art.
Picked up a fun headcanon that Ishtar is a flirty drunk. She doesn't drink a lot but when she does, phew. I think I just got really inspired by this art and the threads.
She was summoned to cold and ice as brilliant and harsh as the land of Silesse. She pulled her cloak tighter about her, only to realize the dress she had come to those world in was markedly different than her own.
Her new outfit mixed both the fashions of Friege and the current festival. The mid-length ruby colored dress had a slit for easier mobility, and had fancy white brocade sewn to the edges. She wore white leggings which came to about her knees to help beat back the cold. Her boots were quite thick, and tall. Certainly able to handle the snow drifts.
Her hair was pulled back with a ribbon, and she had pulled on a curious hat, like a stocking cap with a little fluffy white ball.
A long cloak fluttered behind her, trimmed with fur.
"Ah, as chilly as Silesse," she said softly.
Before her, she recognized a familiar figure.
Tine hadn't seen much happiness in her young life. She was so often stoop-shouldered and frightened by the sound of chains, or dark places.
She had on a puffy outfit of a short red dress over leggings of the same red, warm earmuffs and little candy-cane decorations in her hair. Her light lavender pigtails were wrapped in ribbons that were tied in bows.
"Tine? You're here as well?"
Tine turned back towards her. Her pigtails bogged as she did.
"Princess Ishtar?"
From behind a tree covered in decorations came another. He resembled Tine, she thought.
Even more, she had the thought he reminded her of Tailtiu.
"Stay close. I'll keep you safe should any enemies come," Ishtar said.
She reached out to touch Tine's shoulder.
"Don't you dare touch her," he said.
And she felt it, the impending storm of thunder magic to be summoned. It always left the air pressure different, and made the hairs at the back of her neck stand up.
"Arthur, it's okay," Tine said.
Tine reached out to grip Arthur's sleeves. He'd put on a festive suit for the cold night, too. Thick red coat came down to his knees, trimmed with tufts of white. His long purple hair, so like Tailtiu's own was caught by the wind.
"This is Askr, not Friege. I hope to heal any fractures which the war has made between my family," Ishtar said.
"Please, brother?"
Tine looked up at her brother with the biggest, pleading eyes. It made Ishtar want to hold Tine close to her, until she could comfort every tear away.
Tine just inspired that kind of reaction in people.
"Here in Askr, it's a season of joy and spending time with family. The heroes spend all night giving out presents to bring happiness to all the children. I would hope to share that happiness with Tine, too."
"Fine. But if anybody tries to hurt Tine, they'll regret it," Arthur said.
He still looked suspicious, and kept near to Tine, but he didn't reach for his tome.
"What exactly is this mission? They pass out presents for children?"
"Yes. It's a tradition in these parts."
The voice was deep, refined, elegant, and deeply familiar.
She looked up, and there he was. Her erstwhile bodyguard.
He'd changed so little in looks. He still was the tall, stately, and dark knight she had known for most of her life.
Except, his attire was certainly different.
Reinhardt had on a pair of festive antlers, and a closely fitted red suit trimmed with fur, and thick black boots. Even his horse's reins and saddle had been similar decorated with twinkling lights, and a matching set of antlers. The sheer fact that he kept his composure in a completely ridiculous festive gear which made her smile even more.
It shouldn't be such a surprise. Any hero could be within the land of Askr. She look over his largely unchanged features over and over.
She'd missed him. It'd been since a long and cold time since she'd been forced to dismiss him. And now, he was here before her again.
He dismounted, and bowed.
"My liege."
"Forgive me, I simply did not expect to see you," she said.
For a moment, she thought she saw a flicker of something. But he instantly kept back whatever emotion she had seen. And he once again
"...If it is a problem, I will keep my distance. I could ask Kiran to keep us deployed to separate units."
"No! No....I don't wish that at all."
He cleared his throat. "I see."
Was there a greater distance now between them?
Of course, this was the consequences, now wasn't it?
She'd never forget the momentary look of pure betrayal and hurt in his eyes before he regained his composure back then. Until her dying day, she would remember that expression and be haunted by it, by him.
Forcing her to dismiss Reinhardt had been one of the last breaking points between her and Julius, but Reinhardt wouldn't know that. All he would remember was the lady he had served so faithfully for so long dismissing him as if he were worthless refuse.
Sending away her most loyal guard, who had been her right hand man for years, simply because Julius did not like him was unforgivable, yet not the worst thing she did in the name of Julius.
"We should join the rest of the heroes summoned," Reinhardt said.
He looked on ahead. She followed.
He was too stoic to read, though she knew he was not so heartless as to be unaffected by her actions.
She followed him through the snowy path. Tree boughs glittering with decorations and frost were on the every side of the road.
Before she could speak the apologies which built up in her, none which were remotely adequate, she recognized Tailtiu and Azelle just ahead.
Azelle's clothes actually hadn't changed much, considering how much red he wore. His tunic was red and trimmed with much fur. He wore an almost comically large red hat, that looked like half a jester's do.
Tailtiu had a big bow in her long ponytail, and had on what must have been Azelle's trimmed red cape. It was draped over her long red dress, full of frills as she was wont to love.
Tine paused as she caught sight of them.
"M-Mother...F-Father...Is it truly you? ...How? I saw you..."
Tailtiu bent down to Tine's level. "Aww! How cute! Are you lost, little girl?"
Tine had such a hurt look on her face. Ishtar could barely stand to look at her without feeling completely heartbroken.
"You don't recognize me....?"
"She must have been summoned from before she had her daughter," Reinhardt said softly.
Tine pulled her cloak close. Her head was bowed. She sniffed, though no tears came.
"I-I see...I was mistaken," Tine said.
"You smile far too much to be my mother."
"Let's go, Tine," Arthur said sharply. His look was full of deep recrimination.
"Allow me to explain. I've been here some time and have become adjusted to the certain aspects of summoning," Reinhardt said.
He took Azelle and Tailtiu aside and spoke softly. Tailtiu's ponytail bobbed as she listened.
"So that's how it is," Azelle said.
Tailtiu came closer to Tine, who had never looked more lost than at that moment.
"You'll be my daughter one day?"
Tailtiu smiled.
"I'm lucky to have such a sweet girl as a daughter. You want to hand out presents together?"
Tine choked back a sob. "...Nothing would make me happier."
"Stay close so you don't get lost, now~ Hold on tight to my hand~" Tailtiu said.
Arthur held back, grumpy and suspicious until the end. But Tine gladly took her mother's hand. They went on ahead with many, many gifts to give.
It was a happy ending, or a beginning. She couldn't tell which. Both, perhaps.
Even if it wasn't her Tailtiu, Tine gladly bonded with this version from her mother from an earlier time. One who still smiled.
"I'm leaving with the rest of the group. There's many presents still to be delivered," Reinhardt said.
Reinhardt was faster than most here, as his horsemanship was peerless. And many others were bogged down with the weight of the heavy coats, and traversing the drifts of snow.
"Let me come with you. It's been far too long since I've seen you. We have much to catch up on."
He inclined his head.
"I would be honored to share your company, my lady."
He didn't completely hate her, at least. She had that comfort and relief.
It didn't lessen the pain of the guilt she bore, but there would be time to say those words. For now, there was a holiday to save.
*
The night was as cold as it was beautiful. The stars shone above, as bright as the little twinkling lights all over the trees. Everyone had donned warm and festive outfits to celebrate this one day full of gifts and happy children.
And that was what warmed her heart the most. These protected, loved children who heroes from many lands worked together to protect and pass out gifts to.
The parents were so relieved as they knocked came to the lit doors. Ahead of them, Tine held tight to her mother's hand as Azelle handed out presents. Even Arthur cracked a smile.
"It's comforting to know that these children will be safe. They won't be subject to the child hunts," she said softly.
"The forces of Askr work tirelessly to keep the lands safe from harm. There are many from all different lands and times, and all impart different powers and wisdom to this land," Reinhardt said.
"Good."
She couldn't stop stealing glances at him. She had dismissed Reinhardt and sent him away. Now, he was here by her side again.
Had he always been this striking? She saw him with new eyes as she noticed his broad shoulders, and the elegant lines of his strong body.
"Friege never had such customs. It's...quaint," she said.
"Would you bring them back?"
"The decorations and traditions, surely. And the antlers of course. For all the knights of Friege to wear."
"If it pleases you, my lady," Reinhardt said.
She chuckled. "It does."
Reinhardt mentioned his sister often, and always with an obvious fondness. Now, Ishtar caught sight of her ahead.
Olwen wore a long tunic of brilliant red, matching antlers as Reinhardt. Her leggings and long boots helped her keep warm in the bitter cold.
"We're running out of time. Onwards!"
Behind her was a not-so-little second in command. Was he supposed to be some kind of helper elf costume?
She sure riled up the troops, as her little battalion charged forward with huge bags full of gifts.
Unlike Reinhardt, Olwen was fiery. They were quite a contrast, especially to see them this close. Her green eyes burned with determination as she pushed her horse, and her brigand on further with their bags of gifts.
She caught Reinhardt smiling ever so slightly at such a display.
"She's become a commander in her own right. I knew it was only a matter of time," Reinhardt said proudly.
A gust cut through, sending snow flying. Coldness stung her Her cloak fluttered in the wind as the wind found its way to her skin.
His gloved hands were at his neck to undo his robes instantly.
"Quick, wrap yourself in this before you catch a chill."
"I don't wish for you to be cold," she said.
"I will be fine. If need be, draw back and take shelter at the castle."
He was at her side again. She wouldn't let him go away so easily.
For years he had been her right hand man. Reinhardt had ensured her utter safety. With him there was a calm, for no one could simply face Reinhardt of Friege in combat and live to tell about it.
Then, in one day, he was gone from her side. She had not fully realized until his absence just how much his quiet presence was to her.
She'd taken for granted that he would always be there with her. And how she bitterly regretted that loss. And clung to this new hope in the wintry air.
"No. I will go on. It is only one night. I will not leave any children unhappy. I've seen far too many suffering children. If I can achieve this, then...maybe in some world, that the children can be saved, too."
"Very well, then. Stay close."
She no longer felt the sting of the wind, but she certainly felt far more... distracted than she had earlier. Even with the task at hand, her mind went back to him, over and over.
*
It was well past midnight when the last of the bags were delivered. It brought great comfort to see these children sleeping so soundly, and to know the happiness the holidays brought them.
With so many heroes, the gifts were swiftly delivered to every corner of the land. Now, Ishtar warmed herself with the lovely drink called 'Eggnog." A strange name for a delightful drink she couldn't help but indulge in.
It had been a long day, and the taste was so nice. A few more drinks, then a few more drinks, then more.
It was very cold, and the sweetness helped warm her up. And by the fire, it was easy to drink the night away.
(Perhaps five large cups were a bit much, but she was quite famished after delivering all those toys, and it was so very good.)
Olwen and Reinhardt helped secure a wreath on the other side of the wall. Both had matching antlers. When he finished, he helped hand more decorations near where she sat by the hearth.
Ishtar smiled mischievously. "Tell me, Reinhardt. Was it Olwen who made your costume?"
"It's traditional garb," he said dryly.
"...The antlers, too?"
"Those were Olwen's doing. She has a matching pair. I cannot tell if this is her revenge, her attempt at mending our differences, or both at once."
He was flushed faced, though she couldn't tell if it was because of the cold or if the Reinhardt of Friege was truly blushing.
No, it must be the cold. It was Reinhardt, after all. Little could ever defeat or faze him.
She rose up from her chair, and suddenly felt dizzy. The sweet drinks went to her head. Perhaps she shouldn't have drank quite so much of it, but it had been so delicious.
Strong arms steadied her before she ever even faltered.
She looked up to see her very own knight held her close to his chest. It was as tender as one would hold their dearest lover. He looked so solemn, and that was no good. Tonight was one of merriment. Even little Tine was smiling again. And Arthur, too. Though his was begrudging.
"Brother, you're under the mistletoe," said Olwen behind them.
Reinhardt glanced up. "So I am," he said solemnly.
She hiccuped as she looked up. There seemed so many plants above them, why remark on just one?
"Mystletainn? The sword that Eldigan wielded? And Ares after him?"
She was against his chest, with her hands against him to steady herself, and she found through the sudden dizzying haze that she liked the feel right here. Very much, in fact.
She shouldn't be surprised. He was the finest knight in the land. Truly peerless in every way. Of course he would be strong.
She had never thought of him in such terms. He was her ally, her protector, and the man she relied on daily.
But after so much time apart, she could not help but admit that her protector was quite appealing in many ways. Distracting and dashing in a way that left her heart aflutter. Dark haired and tall, with intense dark eyes and an almost haunting handsomeness. He was as elegant and graceful as he was powerful.
These were thoughts and feelings she was not accustomed to feeling around Reinhardt.
Reinhardt was careful to keep his distance. Especially since she had been betrothed to Julius. Even with all that care, Julius had despised him so to force her to send him away.
"I'll go hang the rest of the wreaths. It looks like you need some privacy," Olwen said.
"That isn't necessary," Reinhardt said quickly.
Olwen gave him a look, one entirely skeptical, and gave her last goodbye for the night. Her second in command, that knight dressed like a little helper elf awaited her.
"It is better not to say what this is about."
"Do tell me. Please, Reinhardt. What could it possibly be about this plant that is so special?"
He let out a soft sigh.
"...I could never deny you anything, even this," Reinhardt said.
And he explained of this strange tradition. A plant that people kissed beneath. How curious! And how captivating a thought.
"Yes. Well, it is not a tradition of Friege, and thus binds neither of us. If you will excuse me, I have more decorations to hang. Perhaps you should turn in, if you have drank enough Eggnog to be decidedly unsteady."
People kissed beneath mistletoe. What an interesting custom. And now, it was as if she and Reinhardt were fated to kiss.
A thought which was more and more appealing, now that she thought of it.
Would he kiss as well as he fought? Such thoughts of her protector had never come to her mind before, not even once.
Because someone else had always been there. But now, that betrothal was over. She was in a new country, a new land. And reunited with Reinhardt, she found herself wondering such things.
And it felt very good to have strong arms about her. Would his lips feel as good as well?
Bolstered by drink or something else, some sudden and wild idea that came with the sweetness, she rose up from where she had been, comfy against his chest. He was taller than her, so it took going on tiptoe to reach him. His expression held faint surprise.
And what surprise he would get as she cupped his jaw and brought his lips to hers.
He was completely still a moment. His lips were soft, and warm, yet slightly chapped. His arms tightened about her, and to her surprise, he deepened the kiss quite suddenly.
He took control quite firmly, but gently as he kissed her. She found herself pressed tight against his solid, strong body body, her hand against his chest. The flutter in her heart was like a bolt of lightning coursing through her.
Reinhardt was a very good kisser. Dizzyingly so. Her knees felt like water, and only his hands kept her up.
He pulled away suddenly, as if he'd touched flames.
"Ahem."
"I should truly guide you to your chambers before you fall again."
"Oh? Will you keep me warm there? It is quite cold tonight."
He took a very sharp intake of breath. "My lady."
"Oh, I need another drink. My glass is empty...who do I call to refill my cups?"
"You are already well within your cups; that is the last thing you need," Reinhardt said.
She nearly fell again, but Reinhardt kept her quite steady. His grip on her arm was distracting.
"Sleepy."
Even her speech had started to become slurred.
"I should expect so, after so many drinks."
"T'was good."
"You'll regret it tomorrow...Still, let me take care of you," he said softly.
He lifted her up in a bridal carry, and quite effortlessly too. She rested her head against him as he carried her back through the halls. She was a bit dizzy, but even more so, she was aware of him. The strong arms that held her close.
"I'm lucky to have such a knight as you as mine," she said.
"...I am lucky to have ever served someone such as yourself," Reinhardt said softly.
"It has been the greatest honor of my life to keep you safe."
She was half asleep when he opened the door and laid her gently upon the bed.
"Goodnight, my lady. I was....grateful to be able to meet you again, even if it was not within our time and our lands."
But she had already drifted off to sleep, the words still on her lips.
*
It felt as if lightning itself had struck her brain. She had a horrid headache, her mouth was dry, and she felt distinctly nauseous.
A knock at the door felt like a hammer to the head.
She heard Reinhardt's refined voice at the door, slightly muffled.
"My lady? Are you well....Are you decent?"
She let out a groan. "Decent? I am not sure I am still alive at this point."
"Not surprising, after that many drinks," Reinhardt said.
"I have not readied yet. My head is killing me."
It started to come back to her. The kiss. And bolstered by drinks she'd even made such suggestions that she never would've dreamed to have said within a more sober state. Not to anyone, even her formerly betrothed.
The drink had some magic ability to make her decidedly...flirty. And now she had more apologies, when she she hadn't even found a way to voice her earlier ones.
Just the mere thought made her feel exhausted.
Still, she was Ishtar, Goddess of Thunder. She had to rise up, even though she felt half alive, and face the day...and her guard.
Who for a moment last night had been more than a guard. Last night had to be somewhat filtered through the lens of the drink, yes? Surely kissing her Reinhardt couldn't have been as potent and intense as she remembered.
"Allow me a moment. I will get changed."
Through a haze she pulled on the same dress she had worn before. It smelled faintly of pine. She took unsteady steps to the door. A lady did not keep one waiting, let alone her very own, most devoted vassal and bodyguard.
Before he even said a greeting, Reinhardt handed her some kind of drink. It had the scent of herbs.
"Drink this, and you'll feel better. I rose early to ensure I got some from the apothecary."
"Thank you," she said.
It was bitter and cold, but she instantly started to feel the pain begin to fade.
"Ahem. It seems the lovely drink I kept enjoying was alcoholic in nature, and caused me to do some...imprudent things. I was unfamiliar with the drink, or I would've been more...restrained."
"You would not be the first to do things they regret due to drink, and hardly the last. Though next time, I will remind you not to drink quite so much, if you desire."
He smiled, a bit grimly at that.
Except when it came to regrets, she had many. The effects of the war, the loss of much of Friege, her inability to save more children from the child hunts.
"If I may? It would be best to forget last night ever happened. Julius would be...displeased."
To put it mildly. Julius would burn down the entirety of Askr and then every other realms if he knew. But that was hardly an issue now.
"Julius and I are no more. After he forced me to dismiss you, I broke it off sometime after."
She sighed. "I did not recognize him as the man I loved any longer. No matter what I did, I could not return to what we had been. And the things he did...I could not accept them."
Julius had become the vessel for the dragon Loptous. The dragon had devoured everything she had loved and left nothing but a monstrous shell wearing the face of the man she had once loved so. And he had done horrific things, such as order the slaughter of children.
Even if she'd loved a gentle Julius, he was no longer that man, and now ruled Jugdral with the grip of a tyrant.
"Then let last night be considered an...effect of the drink, and nothing more," Reinhardt said.
"I must...apologize for my behavior."
He smiled wryly. "An excess of drink defeats even the best of us, it seems."
"Not simply that."
She looked down to her hands. The hands which had helped fight the Liberation Army, even as they sought to free the children from the Child Hunts. Even as they should have been on the same side.
"I begged him not to kill you and simply to let you be dismissed. And then, I had to send you back in disgrace. I didn't wish to, but that is no excuse. I still am making amends for the choices I made then, and the path I took."
"I hurt you, I hurt Tine, and I took the wrong path. I hated the child hunts, the wars. And yet, I stayed on the side that would keep them. Even when I fought back, and began to save the children, it wasn't enough to stop all the suffering around me."
"I wanted to find a way to bring it back to how it was. And in that, I was on the wrong side. I know that now."
"My lady, I have never, even for a moment hated you. Not even then. I, too, was forced upon a narrow path. Even to fight Olwen. But here, we've begun to slowly fix things."
"But...if I could go back. Would I change it? I do not know. I tried, truly. I could not turn my back on my countrymen, my family, on Julius. Even if it hurt those around me."
"Askr is a world of opening and possibilities. Even for us," Reinhardt said.
"May you find your way to happiness. I am...glad to be reunited, even like this."
She smiled. "I suppose when I pictured us ever meeting again, I didn't think you'd be wearing antlers."
He smiled ruefully at that. "Me neither."
"Breakfast will be soon, and after that I need to patrol the parameters. If you still need to rest, I will inform Kiran that you are feeling poorly."
"No, the potion you ordered made worked wonders. Thank you again."
"Reinhardt, I..."
What could she say? That the imprudent kiss lingered in her mind. Even if amends were made, last night's impulses could not be so easily swept aside.
"Yes, my lady?"
Her face flushed faintly. She bowed her head.
"Reinhardt, I would like to find this mistletoe again. Fetch me some when you are no longer on duty."
"To bring back as a tradition, should we ever return to Friege?"
She couldn't help but blush as she spoke. "To kiss you again."
He remained silent at that.
"Am I too bold? Something has gotten into me, as of late. Perhaps is this new land and all these new beginnings."
"You need not mistletoe to kiss me, my lady. I am eternally yours in every way," he said softly, even solemnly.
"Good. We have much catching up to do."
Not simply as guard and lady, this time. As Reinhardt had said, Askr was full of possibilities.
