"Checkmate!"
The room was filled with laughter as some of the Shepherds would watch how their only and possibly favorite tactician had beaten their prince in a fair game of chess. It was no surprise, and perhaps everyone expected it, but it was rather amusing to have seen the prince tried to defeat his old friend.
"Old friend…" Frederick thought, as he would watch from the near end of the tent. That is what prince Chrom would always refer to Robin now, as an old friend. Is no lie that since the first day they met, Chrom and Lissa opened up to the suspicious young woman: beyond of his sophisticated pleas of being careful around her:and his comment that it was a complete Pegasus dung; as time passed the tactician would prove again and again; that beyond not having memory, her heart was true and loyal to the new discovered royal royal house of Ylisse.
Frederick's heart sank as he once again was around his surroundings, it has not been so long since they had defeated King Gangrel, and with the tragic departure of Exalt Emmeryn,it was such a relief to see his prince and princess cutting a laugh or two.
He still remembered the downcast morning, as every Shepherd would reside outside their tents to feel the cold yet warm-feeling rain hit their bodies-as if their country would remind them that they were still alive, while others were not. One of those was sadly Exalt Emmeryn. On that foul morning, he allowed princess Lissa to sit beside him,and even cry in his arm as the teenage girl allowed herself to show her soft-core side again: after all they had gone through, it had been in vain. Frederick felt unworthy of his title since he failed as a knight, as a comrade and as friend. Chrom would sit beside him,using crates as their formal sits.
This brought memories to him, when his two most precious belongings were younger and he would attend them,take care of them, knight-wise and friend-wise.
His eyes would drift from them time to time, his long dark eyelashes filled with water as he stared at the distant. Over the canyon's end, he could see their fellow tactician. A soft dark figure was what her body entitled :Robin was not the most lady-like woman, as himself and the prince have agreed and even insulted her with without meaning to, but that did not take the grace of her. As her body let rain cleanse her, Frederick would just stare at her long-brown hair: the small knots Robin had made on her hair, were now gone since the rain and the battle made sure to get rid of them.
Frederick's rich brown eyes could only stare at her, as her face lifted to feel what looked like Emmeryn's tears, hiding perhaps her own. As the prince sat closer to Frederick, and Lissa tried to snuggle even more,he then could understand the grief and desperation Robin was feeling. His theory soon came to be as she let out a long scream. Chrom didn't hesitate to get up to see if she was alright, but his trusty knight stopped him with a gentle hand.
"Allow her…" Frederick spoke softly as he looked into the strong blue eyes of his prince. Chrom could only nod gently as he stared at Robin. The prince wondering and hoping she wouldn't believe this was her fault,but deep inside he also felt a small feeling of bittersweet, as his pain was shared with those all around him. Shared also with his best-friend.
"Frederick." Frederick finally escaped the memories in his mind, going back to the warm tent he was now present in. His prince was calling out his name.
"Hey Frederick, what are you doing over there? Come closer." Chrom motioned him with his hand, making the sturdy knight stop being in his usual position: hands on the back and chest showing out proudly. As Frederick walked closer, he couldn't help to look at Robin, who had a soft and warm smile on her face. Lissa was rubbing off the redness of her cheeks away since she had laughed so hard she even snorted, making the sweet-tooth thief snicker and the plate cleaner cavalier laugh still. Sumia would try to help Lissa calm down, but she was caught on her own giggles. Sully would only run her hand on Lissa's hair to make her feel even more loved.
They were heading back home , in a few days they would be once again in their palace,where the big wedding would take foot now: since between death and disaster, Chrom had managed to find love. Everyone knew it would happen, seems only the prince was unaware of his prince would shortly marry Sumia, as soon as they would get some rest back in Ylisstol and deal with political affairs that the aftermath of war leaves.
"How may I be in service?" Frederick asked once he was close enough to the chess game, Chrom only answered by waving his hand at him slightly and stood up.
"Calm down, Frederick the Wary." Chrom smiled softly "As you see, your beloved prince has been defeated by his tactician: once again." Chrom would toy around with the name his loyal knight has given him.
"Well…that's unfortunate…but expected." Frederick murmured the last part, but Chrom heard it as well as the others, starting another round of laughter.
"We all have agreed that maybe you could crush her winning streak!" Lissa jumped out of her circle of attention to get closer to them "You would beat me and Chrom all the time at the castle."
"Milady, as far and beyond that makes me proud: one thing about being a knight is to accept weaknesses. I'm afraid my skills in the area are not as good of those from Robin."
"Awww…" The annoyed and typical displeased look appeared on Lissa. Frederick always had to try hard not to smile or fall for her wrinkled forehead and those big baby blue eyes, as she was trying to be aggressive but ended up looking adorable.
"No fair! Someone has to beat Robin, at least once! She's always winning!" Lissa expressed. Robin's laugh escaped from her lips "Now Lissa, that's not true. Chess may have strategy but is also about luck sometimes"
"How so?" Stahl looked at the tactician confused, as he has never heard of such a thing.
"Well…" Robin took her cup of apple and cinnamon tea, and took a small drink "If my opponent is bad enough, then that's lucky." A small grin covered Robin's face now, making Sully chuckle.
"Oh yea? Well...seems you been on a lucky strike so far." Suddenly everyone went silent as they heard a big growl: someone would think it had been an animal cry,but it ended up being just a stomach growl.
"Sorry." Stahl blushed as he apologized "All this talk of strategy and whatnot has gotten me hungry." Gaius snorted as he pat Stahl's back "Don't feel so bad, you're not the only one. I heard that Vaike and Olivia have been cooking some pies and other sweet things. Lon'qu hasn't moved from the kitchen ever since."
Stahl smiled "Then let's get going!" His smile went away when he felt a hard punch on the stomach "Have some manners!" Sully had landed him a blow, before looking at the prince "Can we be dismissed?"
Chrom only gave a short smile as he began to walk out of the tent "What are you talking about? I'm looking forward for some pies."Chrom gestured his arm to Sumia, who only blushed and gave out a timid smile as she held Chrom's strong arm-marked with the seal that the Exalt once had on her forehead. "Though I doubt they best my future wife's."Sumia only hit his arm softly as they walked out,Stahl immediately following as Sully tried to calm down his ass:so he wouldn't make a fool of himself.
Gaius was already out the tent, and Lissa was going to follow but turned around to see the other two remaining people in the tent "Aren't you coming?"
Robin shook her head softly "I'm not hungry yet, but please do save me some bear biscuits if you can."Lissa only made a dreadful face, she sometimes wonders how can Robin be so pretty if she eats stuff like that. Blue eyes locked on dark chocolate one's "What about you,Frederick?"
Frederick only shook his head "Apologies, milady, but I have things to attend." Lissa sighed deeply "You will die young if you never stop to enjoy yourself: you will be a very bad husband…if you even marry!" She stormed out, after her annoyed tone had said those words. Frederick would only shake his head softly, knowing that the princess only said that to joke around…but they did have some truth in them. Lissa turned out to be quite troublesome. He would have chuckled if he hadn't remember Robin was still in the tent.
Robin finished her cup and looked at the robust man, who oddly had his eyes locked on her. She smiled and raised an eyebrow "What is it? You only stare like that when you have something in your mind."
Frederick cleared his throat and took a strong stance once again,even if the knight wasn't wearing his armor, the man did not look any different: though Robin did enjoy the thin fabric of the man's shirt, since she could see the sturdy muscles beneath the cloth.
"The vest is lucky…" Robin thought. But stopped once she noticed what she was doing, she only giggled at herself, making Frederick raise an eyebrow this time. He finally spoke:
"Well…the prince told me I had to challenge you….and he didn't dismiss the order." The serious tone of Frederick would only make this scene more enjoyable for Robin: for months their relationship had gotten better: from him being always over suspicious with her, now an aura of respect flew over them.
"Frederick,it wasn't an order…just a friendly suggestion." Robin motioned with her hand to sit where the prince once sat, Frederick felt a little uneasy about that. Since he felt he was sitting on an actual throne and not just a wooden chair. He stared at the table, where a scrambled game of chess was displayed. He blinked when Robin started to fix the board,with a small gesture from his own hand, he gave the note to Robin that he would do it. Robin could only smile, and only stare at Frederick's strong hands work on such delicate pieces.
"Do you want some tea?" Robin offered as she stood up from her seat and went to the kettle.
"If it isn't a burden." Frederick responded. Robin only nodded, not even turning back as she grabbed another cup. Frederick took this chance to look around the tent,which was Robin's: her tent was always one of the biggest, taking after Chrom's. Her tent would be filled with boards,ink,paper, but mostly with books, not only magic. His eyes could catch titles of war books, opera pieces, mystery and romantic novels and even the trending style of picture story telling books-which he moved his gaze from when he noticed that the cover had a man holding close another man.
Naga permits to love anyone and anything, but that still didn't mean he would find himself enjoying homosexual novels, though he would respect and protect anyone-not caring their sexual orientation."Love is love" he though, and kept arranging the board, thinking to himself that is normal for a woman find attractive such things…after all…the war gets lonely and…
"Frederick! For the love of Naga, do not be so obscene!" He thought to himself. To cleanse his soul from guilty, he thought he would go around camp clearing the ground from pebbles later. When he finished the board, his eyes glanced back at Robin. Who was taking some time getting the tea ready and serving it…he didn't mind much, as he could enjoy this oddly peaceful moment. He thought he was doing this because prince Chrom slightly gestured it, but deep inside he wished to have this free time with Robin. It was no lie that the Great Knight was always busy doing things for the camp, training new recruits and even himself…but he was a man nonetheless: a young man.
Between the feisty attitude of Robin with him, and his none-breaking soul,his heart had been caught up in Robin's clutches. She didn't know, thankfully:for he wouldn't know what to do with it. Himself was confused with these emotions, as he thought as the knight that he is, his heart could only have space of the royal family of Ylisse and the whole country.
But seeing Robin's delicate back, since her coat was resting on her now empty chair,he could cherish the soft curves the young woman had, with the soft-silky hair that followed her shoulders.
Around camp, men often forget to be gentlemen and would go back being cavemen as they would talk about the women around the camp. The favorites would always be Olivia and Cordelia, not too far behind Maribelle . Nobody dares to say though, about Lady Lissa, because men knew Frederick would personally cut their life one by once. Not even using a weapon. Surprisingly though. Frederick would only ignore such comments, except in occasions where he thought the conversations from being a cute set of compliments turned out in something nasty
But the ones he most hated were those that went to Robin. Is no secret the prince had seen Robin naked, and she did the same,but both of them were an accident, and their friendship only grew more because of it
For days the camp was filled with rumors until he went with the task of making them disappear, but deep inside he wanted such rumors to go away for the sake of Robin. Not the prince.
He stills feels guilty about it.
"Frederick?" His eyes locked into hers, as he was suddenly ordered to do so. Robin only smirked at him and chuckled "Hey, you alright? You been stuck in that skull of yours a lot. Don't tell me you ate bear meat without me."
"May Naga never make me do so." He looked at the cup, which Robin was offering. He grabbed it. "Apologies, I was thinking about starting a fire…er, campfires. Yes."
"With this rain?" Robin joked as she sat down in front of him, on the other side of the table. "I'm sorry, but not even the man most eager to start a campfire will manage to do so without some magic."
Frederick took a sip from the tea, and found it perfect. Like if Robin knew how much sugar he liked and even the temperature of it. He looked at Robin…and wondered what will he do now: they were going home. Even if the war has been harsh, he still enjoyed the silence and privacy this tents held for them. In the castle, he would be back being the confined knight in the castle…never going out only if his prince ordered such thing. Would Robin be in the castle with them? Or will she leave to live her own life now?
The thought terrified him.
"Is hard to forget, isn't it?"
Frederick blinked when he saw Robin's lips move. He studied her carefully as she looked at the board, imagining gears working in her head as she already tried to study the game: which even hadn't begun.
He was terrified. Terrified of perhaps seeing this woman go with another man.
A man who deserved her. A man who wasn't a coward to speak her feelings toward her.
"You mean going back home?" Frederick asked as Robin took a sip from her new tea.
"Frederick…you understand my feeling…don't you?" She looked into those deep and stern eyes, that she has noticed to be looking her way more often with each battle. At first it was amusing to her, as she would refer to her other comrades how Frederick reminded her of a big teddy bear.
She has heard bears hate foxes.
And she is quite sly and smart like a fox.
"I'm afraid I'm confused milady…but please do go on"
There was silence after Frederick spoke, and he could feel how the tent started to feel tense. Frederick looked at the board for a moment "You seem dreadfully tired, Robin." He grabbed a piece, that looked like a normal Ylissean soldier and moved it further on the board. "What's on your mind?"
Robin stared at the board, feeling deeply indebted with his genuine action. She began to play as well "You still can't forget her death, can you?"
It struck Frederick like a tome of Thunder, but he would still look at the board. Since he noticed it was easier for Robin to speak. "I doubt anyone will forget…mostly prince Chrom and lady Lissa…but surely we will move on, and we will make her legacy be outstanding. A peaceful land, like she so wished."
"That's true…" She moved another piece. "I still wonder what would had happen if I…"
"Robin,don't." Frederick tone became cold and direct, making Robin look at him…but he was surprised when he saw a small smile forming on Robin's strawberry colored lips.
" I know, Frederick…but I know you understand me…I still feel like I failed. Chrom and Lissa keep saying there was nothing I could do…but deep down I know that's a pity lie they tell themselves and to me."
"You dare to say the prince lies?"
"Yes, I do."
Frederick sighed as he rested more on his chair. Letting his body not be so alarmed, as he felt safe and in complete trust with Robin. "Well…don't take it to heart. They lie to me too." He moved a piece, removing one of Robin's. "I believe they do it to keep themselves and us sane."
"Is so hard, Frederick…" Frederick was taken aback when Robin rested her arms on the table, playing with the spoon inside her tea. " I don't remember anything at all…and all the memories I have now is the one's I have spent in this camp…with Chrom and the others…with you."
His heart felt a flutter as Robin kept going "Is hard to hear so many rumors with our men…and I ignore most of them…but they still hurt my pride, you know? Them telling me I perhaps didn't try hard enough…when you know I did."
Robin let out a deep sigh "I'm not fond of letting out my emotions, Frederick…but right now I need it…you don't mind…do you?" She looked back at him, and could only find Frederick's reassuring sight. She let her eyes fall on her tea again "Since I became a shepherd…I tried my best to go with everyone…but not everyone is as trusting as Chrom…as nice as Lissa…"
"and as protective and stern as you…" Robin thought.
"Through out these months, I think I lost the count of how many teeth I had to punch out of men who thought I was an easy-going girl just because I hang a lot with Gaius and Lon'qu; or how many times I had to beat the crap out of them in arm wrestling to show I wasn't some royal girl who couldn't do her stuff; or how many thought I was an idiot for refusing Virion's attempts of getting in my pants."
Frederick could only stare, as Robin kept out going. Her hand and arm resting more on the table as she sunk on it
"Now Chrom is getting married and…the Shepherds are going their way, right? But…Oh Frederick…I don't have a home to go back to. All of you keep saying all the things you will do…but me? I don't even know if I have a family...heck, am I even with someone? "She shrugged lightly as she drank her tea, which started to smell like it had a bit of rum. – I guess…I'm just scared…of being stranded again…I never knew I needed the Shepherds so much in my life." She finished her cup and rested on her chair again, her hand still on the table. "I suppose is the part of growing up…but it makes me feel dirty…how many lives didn't I take? I didn't care how many families I left without a son…a father…a brother…a lover."
Frederick finally allowed himself to snicker, which became to a surprise for Robin. She got on guard, making Frederick stop "Where's the axe?" Frederick only raised an eyebrow and passed his hand on his hair, making Robin raise an eyebrow now.
"I just find it amusing…Robin, we are your family. It doesn't matter what we are doing or where we are…our bonds are connected now. You're part of our Ylissean family. If you would ask any of us if you could live with us, none here would say no." He sighed "Besides…In war there is never a winner, only losers…but all those men fought because of their beliefs…I fought for my beliefs…and I'm still alive…but if I had died in one of their clutches…I wouldn't feel anger to them, only to myself for not holding to my life stronger."
Robin laughed,trying not to think of the image of Frederick no longer being around, finally moving a piece and eating a soldier from Frederick's board. "Oh please…as nice and fulfilling that sounds. Not everyone here cherish me that much. I'm too young to hang out with the big fella's, but my mind is not that youth to hang out with the most , I feel an aura of jealousy with most girls who deep down still have something for Chrom. "
"That's not true, I'm one of the oldest here…yet we are having a normal conversation."
"You're special, Frederick…"
Frederick stared at her…and he blinked when he noticed Robin's muzzle start to get pink
"I'm…I'm sorry…that sounded awful, didn't it? Did I offend…"
"No Robin, no…is just…odd for you to say that."
Robin laughed "I know, sorry…but I do mean it Frederick…behind that stern attitude…"
"and those erratic brown eyes, rippling abs and roundest ass-" Robin stopped her thoughts since her blush got bigger "I should be ashamed." She concluded in her mind.
" You're a very nice man…don't take to heart what Lissa told you…I'm sure any woman who marries you would be very happy…and your children would be a nice gift to the future society."
"Robin."
"Uh…yeah?"
"What about you?"
"Me? Well…Since I don't remember anything…I…I doubt anyone would want to be with me. I understand that men are picky with their future spouses, and most of them prefer a refined lady that knows to be lady-like…cook and sew...and mostly know their past. Besides, I don't plan to settle down as a housewife for all the hours of my life: I wish to explore my surrondings and discover new strategies."
"Not all men, Robin…some men prefer their woman to be someone with higher expectations in life than just a servant." He smiled a little, making Robin sigh.
"Robin…"
"Uh…yeah…?"
"You're a sly fox…"
"Wha…What?!"
"Alas: With no disrespect, but you're too fly for your age…but that's what makes you my Robin." He moved a piece, leaving a blushed Robin just staring at him.
"I'm a direct man, Robin…you know that." Frederick looked at her, finding adorable and highly attractive the blush that was running on her pale skin, going down on her neck and the small area her chest showed. "and I truly hope you don't find caddish my words right now…but I wish for you to become mine."
Robin would had dropped her cup of tea…if she had any.
Robin would spitted her tea…if she had any.
Robin would have felt her undergarments drop…if that were possible sitting.
"I admit…"Frederick tried to sound serious, for he feared Robin would take this as a joke. "At first it was hard for me to trust you…to the point where there were times I would follow you around camp after I had train you or when you helped me eat all kinds of meat…but when I would follow you…and see you helping others…training yourself more than you should…or simply reading under a tree…showed me what a strong, serious, intelligent and protective woman you are." Robin at this point was going crazy in her head, and she would use the board game as an excuse to not stare at him…and her insides tingled as Frederick would follow.
She was losing poorly to him, her feelings were clouding her mind. She was human, after all.
"My heart would start to race at any notice I would get of you getting injured in the battle…or when your fleet wouldn't come back to the barrack soon…the rumors of you and prince Chrom were devastating for my heart." He looked at Robin, and she caught his gaze. None of them were playing right anymore. "In my mind I highly wished the best for you and the prince, since it would be a strong bond of the Ylissean people…but my heart…oh my heart…sometimes I wished even horrific things: For a moment I thought I had chosen the wrong rank and that I had to be a dark mage."
Robin wished the table were smaller, heck, she wished the table wasn't there at all. She just wanted to throw herself to him, be a little girl in his large and strong arms. Be against that chest she was once had against her since in one battle she had to ride his horse, since she had been injured from her legs and couldn't walk: that battle Frederick protected her with his life, making her feel more special that even lady Lissa. As he would hold her close with one arm and with the other would kill any enemy that tried to harm her.
"Frederick,I…"
"No Robin,don't…" Frederick reached his hand to hers, and held it gently. Robin looked at the different size their hands had…how warm and strong his looked…compared to her smaller and colder one.
"Don't give me an answer right now…but I want you to become my wife. "Robin and Frederick shared a gaze, as he kept speaking "I don't wish to sound arrogant…but I'm quite sure there is no one better for you than me…my heart belongs to the Ylissean royal family, but if you would wish to proclaim it…I would follow you to the ends of the earth. Not as a knight…but as the man I am." He smiled softly "And I'm afraid I'm not risking into having to chase you around sea and sky, never knowing if another man might caught your big lovely eyes."
Robin couldn't help but laugh at that, slightly clearing her eyes as small tears were forming "You talk big,but what if you leave me a year later to go back into being a knight? Surely you jest!" She placed her hand on her chest when Frederick would still hold her hand, and got up to just kneel in front of her. Using both hands to now hold hers.
"Believe me when I say it."
"Oh Frederick…you big fuzzy bear…you love Lissa and Chrom too much…I wouldn't separate you from your happiness…that would be too egoistic. " Robin grinned, making Frederick's heart sunk since she loved that corky look on Robin's face. She would only have that face when she would come up with great strategy plans, or when she was about to kill a foe…ah, they share that in common.
"If you truly want me to become your wife…then…" Robin held his hands with her free one. "Let's serve the Ylissean royal family together…let's keep sharing the duty to protect Chrom and Lissa."
"I would be honored to keep you safe, having you beside me as my rightful wife for the rest of my life."
"Are you sure you haven't eaten bear meat?"
Frederick shook his head lightly as she stared into Robin's eyes, which shared his color.
"Then…why did you wait until now to proclaim such feelings?"
"I'm not letting you go out there, thinking you have no one…you have me, Robin…always…and forever."
Robin laughed again "Oh, Frederick! Stop it!" Robin glomped him, making Frederick let out a small oof sound but then followed by a small laugh. Robin embraced him,and new tears started to form as she felt Frederick embrace her back. She sniffed softly, making Frederick rise up to see her.
"Darling…what's the matter? Have I…"
"Oh Frederick, I don't know…I just…feel so…merry."
Frederick rested his head on hers, and allowed to breath in the soft essence of Robin, which smelled mostly like sweet berries. He wondered how could he go on with the twister in his mind if he let the chance escape, and see another man doing this to her. He couldn't, he wouldn't allow it.
"Let us discover these new feelings, together…"
"I wouldn't have it any other way…but don't you think…you're rushing? You barely know me…"
"Ah, nice try. But you have already have said yes. Is useless to try and escape me."
"Oh no…" Robin pretended to whine and feel full of sorrow, but she stopped when Frederick took her chin and made her look at him…she could only stare into those dark eyes…with those long eyelashes. Their bodies and faces getting closer to each other, she could already feel his breath near hers.
"You're a sly fox…and I wouldn't have it any other way…but you're mine."
"Oh yeah?" Robin smirked a little, as she could feel the eagerness in Frederick's touch-not caring if this was caddish or not. She liked this wary man since the moment she snarkily told her he would have his eyes on her. "You're my Freddy bear…"
"Don't call me that."
"Make me stop…"
Frederick didn't wait any longer, and pressed his lips against Robin's. Her arms wrapping around his neck, making Frederick moan lightly at the sensation of feeling Robin's soft and warm breast against his chest. Not meaning to be a cad, but they were there, and he didn't want to move away from their tight embrace. They longed eachother from way back: since fighting for the simplest things such as food rationing or how training should be done. Never giving their arm to twist. Robin broke the kiss though when she felt Frederick's tongue making her way to her mouth, they both blushed.
"Forgive me, milady. I did not…" Frederick was pulled back for another kiss, where Robin opened her mouth lightly so the stoic man would take the hint. Frederick took it without hesitation, and began moving his tongue inside, feeling how Robin's would twitch as it came in contact with his. Robin tasted like sweet apple and rum, while Frederick had just a spicy taste from his tea earlier.
"Frederick,wait…" Robin moved her mouth away from him, but Frederick followed kisses on her cheek and neck. Robin wouldn't break the embrace, as Frederick's hands would roam under her shirt and pass his harsh fingers,which Robin enjoyed. She loved Frederick's harsh attitude, his harsh voice and now his harsh skin. She blinked when Frederick stopped though, and she stared at him with a shyly sight but her mouth had a cocky twist to it.
"Robin, I didn't…"
Robin started to snicker and then laughed lightly on Frederick's shoulder, since now something was getting in between.
"Oh Frederick, I never knew you carried a silver lance everywhere…and it's even forged…"
Frederick wanted to die. He never expected that a few kisses and touches would throw him out like that. But Alas, it has been a long time since the knight has given affection to someone…and to himself.
"Forgive me…" Frederick's cheeks were a rich red, his pointy nose being the area where it was the reddest.
Robin held Frederick's face, and gave him a sweet smile "Oh don't be so silly…I should offend myself if I didn't cause you such thing…hm?" She gave him a small peck on the lips, making Frederick feel at ease. He was being a cad, but he felt that his body had passed the limit. He passed his hands on Robin's brown and long hair…how soft it felt between his fingers. He readjusted the hair bands that were on her face, so she could see those lovely eyes better.
"Frederick…I need you to be patient with me…unlike you…this is new to me…but I know you will take care of me, always…"
"I would never something to hurt you or make you sad…I would feel such things myself first...and…"
"FREDERICK!"
Frederick almost jumped on his seat, looking around as if he suddenly was burst of his bubble: which was true. He stared at Robin: the real one. Who looked at him worried . Frederick kept looking around…only to see that his hand was over hers. He quickly took it back.
"What a vivid illusion…what a cruel illusion." He thought as he tried to go back into what was really going. To his surprise, Robin only got up lightly to reach for his hand and hold it again.
"Hey…I'm sorry…if me talking about how useless I felt made you remember things…I truly apologize."
Oh,so that's where he began to dream.
Frederick sighed and shook his head –Nonsense, Robin. I just…got lost in thought…thinking what to say.- Oh, the real world pained him now. A few moments ago he could have sworn Robin was his already, and that he could even read Robin's thoughts. How could he let his mind play him like that? What a shame of a knight.
Frederick thought of everything in his illusion talked though, and decided to use it as an advantage to keep this conversation formal but very supportive. He held Robin's hand gently.
"Robin, just know that house Ylisse is your home now. No matter what." He stared at her "I might not offer much, but it would be an honor to protect you in battle and in the common ground as well. We both…have failed…but from now on, let's work together to reassure the future together: where no one whom we love has to perish under the hands of someone else."
Robin stared at him back, and a grin appeared in her face: making Frederick's smile show. Robin clenched Frederick's hand, and began to make a hand shake.
"Deal!" Robin relaxed a bit, and then gave him a cocky grin "Hey,Frederick…"
"Yes?"
"Guess who is winning?"
It wasn't long before they ended their chess game, only to find Robin as the victor. Frederick was content with this, as he had won more than a chess game with his fellow tactician. As they both finished the tea deposited in the kettle, he noticed how Robin's eyes would wonder on him…as he was looking for something in him. That made him blush lightly and he cleared his throat.
"Oh,sorry…" Robin cleared her throat as well, but she finally sighed "Hey, Fred…I wanted to ask you something."
xxxxx
Frederick would chop wood under the light rain now. People who glanced at him would look at him confused, as everyone knew that wet wood was practically useless. But his emotions were running wild. Truly wild: In one month, the wedding of the prince would take action, and to his surprise. He had someone to be with in that event.
Robin had asked him as a partner for the wedding.
Robin asked him out.
Robin did.
He would chop harder, as his illusion from moments ago would still stumble in his mind. How low and needy is his mind and soul to even imagine Robin's mouth and hair scent? Overwhelmingly caddish.
But he didn't care. He had the honor and pleasure to take the lady he so wished to take.
The next few days were busy for everyone, as going back home after a war was never easy. There were bodies to pick up, families to inform of a love one passing to Naga's arms and giving speeches to the people about the end of war: what brought some joy to the land was the announcement of prince Chrom's wedding, and no other than Lady Sumia: whom people had her in great esteem.
Frederick worked day and night to prepare the event, as well receiving the help from others. Maribelle and Olivia would prepare the decoratives,as Maribelle always had exceptional taste and Olivia just had the ability to charm anything…and anyone. The knights and cavaliers would attend to the hard work, while the mages would give it a special touch. Everyone was helping…except a few hands that were missing: The loner Lon'qu; The master of sweets,Gaius; and his beloved tactician, Robin.
Rumors would say that these few days they have been going from tavern to tavern: the three of them, since Lon'qu didn't mind Robin that much anymore, as she found her to be kind and not so lady-like.
"Robin is very lady-like, not just with everyone." Frederick thought as he rode his horse around the castle. He hasn't been able to talk to Robin lately, and he was still wondering if their date was…
Wait…
Frederick came to a stop by the sparing area, and decided to watch some fresh soldiers in their practice as he thought.
Was this a true date? If it is, he cannot be with Robin without offering her a small gift for the lovely night they would pass.
But still, he still doesn't know if they are still dancing partners. After all, she has been hanging out with other men, perhaps by now she prefers someone else.
Frederick sighed, something he did often. Only time would tell, he only wished the preparations were over soon, so he could have time to discuss with the tactician. His eyes met the arena though, when he started to hear loud thuds of swords…it did not sound friendly. Men began to move away as they wished to see the fight themselves,out of his normal attitude, he went to the crowd, newbies moving away as they recognized their captain immediately.
"What's going on?" He asked, looking for eyes who would meet his. A soldier locked them.
"Fellow shepherds sir! I believe is Lady Cordelia and Lady Robin."
Frederick couldn't believe what he was hearing, so he walked further into the crowd: he was the tallest men, but he wished to be in first round to confirm what he was hearing.
And perhaps know the reason of the bickering.
Is true for everyone that the two ladies never made real friendship, but there was no need to spar over idiotic concepts.
Frederick managed to be in front line, and his eyes went wide as he saw with wide eyes how the two ladies fought, as they were enemies.
"Yaaaaaaaaaaaah!"Cordelia shouted as she tried to pierce Robin's arm, but Robin was swiftly moving away from her attacks. The two misses started to have a common and friendly sparing, but it soon began to get heated up and ended it what now is.
Both women were fighting with swords,something never expected as Robin was more of a magic user, and would only use a Levin sword on rare occasions, as for Cordelia, she was often seen with a lance or magic as well: since she was now a dark flier.
"Chrom was out of your reach; Gaius is just a toy to you and now you even dare to try and make a fool out of Frederick?" Cordelia would whisper at Robin as their swords touched and they tried to win by power. Pushing each other's feet further and further in thedirt. "The rumors around you seem to be true."
Robin only chuckled at her tone of jealousy "What a poor woman you are, thinking the men of Shepherds are so easily fooled and usable: or perhaps, you have always seen them that way." Robin managed to push her back, making Cordelia take some distance.
Minutes passed, and nothing changed as the women kept trying to hurt each other. Frederick wished to step in, but he did not know the reason of their bickering: perhaps this was needed, as sometimes people only understand with force: such is the case of Ferox.
But the fight began to be dirty, as Cordelia's anger would only build up more and more, as well as Robin's. Some droplets of blood could be seen on the ground now, since they have managed to hurt each other.
"He is like a brother to me! Both of them are! I would never play with them like so!" Robin was tired, tired of being proclaim what she isn't. She believed a woman on her boots would understand, but seems she didn't.
The sparing ended when Frederick finally decided to step in, blocking both their attacks and sending them to the ground. "This is not how a shepherd acts! The prince would be ashamed to see comrades fighting with each other."
Robin held her arm, as it was hurt for the effort of moving a sword, and because she had a slight cut on her shoulder. Cordelia stood up slowly, holding her arm as well. Who had a bruise on the side of her cheek and leg.
"Never in a battlefield have I seen something so treacherous. You should go back to your places, and ask forgiveness to Naga and to yourself for this absurd behavior. Do know that prince Chrom will know about this. Alas for you two."
Robin stared at Cordelia, and she did the same. Both of them looked down, as they had to be scoulded like little children for their matters: and it was true, they deserved it. No adult would ever act so careless, nevertheless to comrades who shared tears, laughter and blood on the now gone battlefield.
"Excuse me for my disrespect…I really thought that you…"
"I apologize for my manners." Answered Robin, giving a small smile to Cordelia "You thought you were doing the right thing…" the circle around them soon began to fade as Frederick's stare and position would make anyone get the idea that the show was over.
Frederick sighed "Your wounds should get attended, I will go look for…" Frederick was cut off by Cordelia, who only waved her hand slightly "Please is not needed…besides…I wish to stay here for a little bit."
Frederick narrowed his eyes, but sighed once again "Don't get careless. Robin, let's go. I need to speak with you."
Robin only nodded as she looked at the ground, still ashamed for her teenager behavior. As she walked beside Frederick, her eyes would drift around, never looking at Frederick. She suddenly stopped though, as she noticed a soldier preparing the small equipment that would sent flying arrows to the newest recruits, as a practice session to use their shield wisely and how even to deflect it to the direction they pleased. Her eyes went wide when the machine dropped one of the gears, and in an instant she could see the machine turning wildly to where Cordelia faced back, looking at nothing.
Frederick heard how Robin's feet pressed hard on the ground, as she decided to turn around and dash. By instant Frederick tried to stop her , as he thought Robin was going back for a second riot with Cordelia, but his eyes went wide as he saw the desperation Robin had to riot, as she pulled out a small knife…but then his arms felt light: and could only stare what was left in his hands.
"CORDELIA!" Cordelia turned around, and before she could react she already saw the flying arrows toward here. Suddenly, her body felt limp as it laid on the floor, with someone on top. Her eyes began to fill with tears as she looked at her hands, filled with blood…which wasn't hers.
Frederick waited outside the room where Lissa and Maribelle were attending Robin, as she had bruises on her back and the older bruise on the shoulder. Which was only older for a few minutes. The knight had escorted Cordelia to her room, where Sumia was attending her…mostly as a friend. After clearing up the incident and fixing the machine that suspiciously got tangled with, he returned to the castle to wait outside of Robin's door.
He raised his head when he heard the door open, only to be suspiciously looked by Maribelle
"Frederick? Why are you…"
"How is Robin?"
This made Maribelle smirk lightly "Oh she is just fine" She answered, raising an eyebrow lightly "Didn't know you worried so much about her? Is this part of your steward job?"
Frederick sighed. Wishing not to throw more wood into that fire. Maribelle got the hint and chuckled "You can pass and see her, Lissa right now is just talking to her." Frederick thanked her, before stepping inside. He stared at Robin, who was now wearing a fresh pack of clothes…he raised an eyebrow though, as Lissa had some scissors on her hands "What are you doing?"
"Oh, hey Freddy!" Lissa turned around,with a quirky attitude. "I was just going to fix Robin's hair. Is a mess,see?"
"Lissa!" Robin blushed,but she didn't take her hands off her journal. She was writing something...or perhaps drawing. Who knows. Noone has ever seen that journal. Though he knows well Robin loves to mess around with it:perhaps new magic spells? tactics? Hell...could be a diary.
A diary...Frederick began to wonder. But was caught of by Lissa's voice.
"Sorry!"Lissa laughed lightly.
Frederick's heart sank, as he felt he had been the causer of Robin's…reaction. If he hasn't grabbed her by her hair accidently, none of this would had happened…now Robin wouldn't be able to do those soft pony tails she looked so adorable in.
"Lissa, milady…you have never cut hair in your life."Frederick got closer to them, and noticed how Robin wouldn't look at him in the slightest, hitting a dagger in his heart.
"Well I can learn today!"
"You shall not." He swiftly took the scissors from her, making Lissa puff and cross her arms. "Heeeeey. I know what I'm doing."
"May I remind you who did your hair when younger?"
Lissa sighed deeply. Giving up with just that remainder. "Yes, Frederick. But I think Robin here would appreciate more a feminine touch."
"Is okay,Lissa…I trust Frederick's knowledge." Alas, she had finally spoken again. Frederick's heart filled with ease once more since there was no sarcasm in her tone of voice. "Besides, I'm sure Lon'qu must be looking for you."
"Lon'qu?" Lissa blinked and a small blush appeared on her cheeks "Why…Why would he look for me?"
"Why wouldn't he look for you?"
Frederick just stared at the two ladies, whom had forgotten he was even there. Seems Kellam has passed to him his ability to be forgotten and go unnoticed. Lissa remembered first,and only giggled at Frederick's unamused face.
"Well Frederick, I warn you! She better look prettier than me! That's an order."With that, Lissa took her leave. Robin stared at her journal once again, wondering and still trying to analyze what just had happened. Her thoughts were cut off by Frederick.
"Milady…if I may…would you be so kind to sit on a chair?"
"Oh…Oh…my…yes…" She cleared her throat as she stood up from the bed and walked to the vanity Lissa had gifted her. Finally closing the journal and leaving it there.
In fact, now that she thought about it, all she had was gifted by her, and Maribelle; except for her battle clothes and journal.
Frederick didn't hesitate into looking for a comb. Robin would only look down, as she was still ashamed of what happened…and shocked how her feelings turned for her. Even going to the level of cutting her own hair for the sake of her partner's well-being.
"Robin…"
"Y..Yeah?"She blinked, as she snapped out of her thoughts. Feeling Frederick's strong hands was a torture at this moment, but because it felt incredibly nice. No one has touched her head like this since she woke from her slumber when they first met.
"How do you want your hair?" Frederick stared at her reflection, seeing how from one side it was very short and from the other remained oddly cut. He looked down on Robin as she hummed lightly, trying to think.
"I…I trust your abilities…so…do what you think looks best on me." She looked up and smiled at his reflection…she was sitting down, but even if she was standing up, seeing the size of Frederick's body was something overwhelming for her still. She always thought seeing Frederick without an armor was always a nice eye treat. She looked down to hide her blush lightly.
Frederick nodded and began to do his work, Robin closed her eyes as she enjoyed how his fingers would rumble around her skull, how swiftly and carefully he would pass the comb on her and the velocity she could hear the scissors cutting.
"Is there something this man can't do?" She thought as she smiled more.
"Robin…I want to apologize…if I hadn't grabbed you like I did…your hair wouldn't be like this."
"Oh, Frederick…is alright…is just hair. It will grow back, thankfully. Besides, I think I need a change. Right?" She snickered and then sighed. "Besides…I would have done the same…I probably looked like a maniac running to Cordelia like that."
"Still…a knight like me should know better…"
"Oh shut up,Frederick. You are a man before being a knight, remember that."
Frederick's muzzle flustered slightly, he even huffed "What kind of phrase is that? A knight is always a knight, period. Besides, if I were a man, I…" He cut his sentence by clearing his throat. Robin only giggled, trying to cover it with her hand.
When Frederick was done. He left the utensils on the vanity "Well?"
Robin opened her eyes to look at herself…she grinned when she saw what a great job Frederick did on her. Her hair was over he shoulders lightly, and some bangs follow across her forehead lightly. She loved this haircut-she looked more mature and ready to give some punches.
Perhaps she gave too many punches for today.
Maybe tomorrow.
"Oh Frederick, I love it!" She turned to see Frederick, and gave him a tight hug "Lissa will surely be pleased with this! Like I am!"
Frederick only tensed up, and he did his best job to keep a serious face as he awkwardly made Robin let go, even though deeply inside he didn't wish too. He wished to hold her tighter, but it wouldn't be appropriate inside her room.
"I'm glad I was able to be at service. Though it wasn't a challenge…you have beautiful hair."
Robin cleared her throat, trying to prevent redness to cover her face again. She has been blushing so much, she thinks a heart attack will appear soon. She was surprised it did not happen, as when she had to lower her head and Frederick moved in front of her to cut her bangs, she got to see the impressive size of Frederick's Excallibur.
She had to write notes about that in her journal.
Perhaps even a sketch.
"Naga, Oh no." She thought.
"You have my thanks,Frederick. For everything. But hey, the good part is that…we can finally talk, huh?" She crossed her arms lightly, trying to feel powerful of the situation. But now that image of Frederick's assault lance was kept well in her mind. "You're still going to the ball with me,right?"
Frederick felt relief, as finally things felt they were going back in place. Like it should always be. "Of course, I'm a man of word. Thunder or not, I will be present."
"You better, or I will be the one causing the Thunder." She smiled when she saw Frederick snort, he tends to smile and let out a few laughs when they are alone. She blinked though when she felt Frederick staring at her…intensely.
"Uh….Frederick?"
"I…I apologize…you just…look very nice with that hair cut…perhaps too well. It will be a shame when it starts growing again."
"Is that so…" Robin uncrossed her arms to place one hand on her hip. "Well…how about when it starts growing back…you cut it for me again? I'm actually enjoying this hair style myself."
"Robin…"
"Eh?"
"You're a sly fox…"
"What?!"
"First it was the private endurance test, then making me eat all those horrific pieces of meat…then me cleaning and arranging your books…and before that, it was me escorting you in missions and expeditions…then your invitation to the ball…and now this? Are you purposely trying to make me spend more time with you?"
Robin would just stare at him, as she was seeing a different Frederick. But she was loving it, she surely was.
"Oh no…seems I'm caught."She gave out a little smile, which looked even more gorgeous with how her face shaped in this new look. Frederick blinked when Robin got closer to him again.
"What are you going to do about it, Captain…because you will probably know too that Cordelia and I were fighting because of you…"
"Excuse me?" Frederick stared into those shiny eyes, and could see how Robin's iris would become slimmer as they kept staring at each other.
"Sounds like cavemen, does it not? But she thought I was playing a fool game with Gaius and you…but is now clear that Gaius is only a great friend. I even consider him almost a brother." She broke the staring contest as she preferred to see his chest, as it was easier for her to keep going. "Oh Frederick, I know I'm not lady like…but please believe I'm not playing with anyone."
"There you are wrong, milady…If I may…" He reached for Robin's hands, and held them gently with his own. "You're playing right now with my heart, and it's a raw game. I don't think I will stand it any longer if you don't end it."
"Frederick, I…" Robin looked at him again, but soon her eyes went lower as Frederick kneel down in front of her. Still holding her hands.
The atmosphere was tense, as she couldn't believe how much this conversation passed frontlines in less than seconds.
"Milady, I sense a strong bond between us…and I truly do not wish to make this bond weaker, only grow in time and with endeavor."
"Frederick, please…stand up…I…" She felt her face was going to burst. Seeing him like felt like if she was about to get proposed.
"I don't know what has gotten into me, Robin. But I cannot hold this feeling any longer…I have fallen for you, fallen deeply for you. Every moment I spent apart from you I only wonder of your well-being and imagine someone else protecting you." Frederick's eyes shined so brightly, and in the dim light of what the day had, soft orange ray lights would enter the room, making his face just look even more handsome than it is. Robin couldn't stand it either, it was eating her chest as well.
"Please Robin, I ask more than just a ball night. I wish to have all your nights and days. Allow me to serve you as a knight and... as a man. " He stressed the last word as he clenched her hands "I wish no other lady than you to become my wife."
She got on her knees, and before Frederick could react, he was embraced and taken to the ground.
Like in his illusion, he was against the ground too. But now, he knew he wasn't dreaming awake again.
"Robin, what…"
"Oh you idiot man! You don't go saying those things, without expecting this!" She laughed loudly as she would nuzzle her cheek on his chest. She could feel Frederick's heart racing, but hers was probably the same.
"Robin…then…"
"I accept! I accept! I wouldn't ask for more than to be the spouse of the most loyal knight of house Ylisse!"
Frederick couldn't help but embrace her. Feeling her every muscle and the warmth her body was giving out now, again, the feeling of her breasts being against his chest. But now it felt more vivid, it felt quite real.
"Robin…I have longed for this…" He confessed, as his fingers made way on her loose hair. Robin only responded by resting her head on his shoulder, keeping a blush on her face as he felt his breathe on her neck.
"I know, Frederick…I longed for it too…" She smiled and moved back, to hold Frederick's face. He blinked, and stared at her…and at the wicked smile she was giving.
"Woman…"
"I pick this God…"
"Oh hell no…" Frederick thought.
"and I'm going to prey." Robin finished, and laughed at Frederick's unamused face. She soon stopped her laughter when she noticed a soft smile on Frederick…and she blinked lightly.
"Freddy?"
"Your last breathe approaches…"He whispered as he got closer to Robin's face, she smiled a little and held Frederick's face a little tighter when the knight finally kissed her. It felt like an action taking on whim. But she needed it. They both needed it.
After dealing with so much pain and lost. It felt like something finally right was blooming for them. She could feel Frederick's arms going around her, his fingers pressing on her back while her own hands moved around his shoulders and arms, how firm they felt under her small hands.
"Robin…I love you…" He whispered as he parted from the kiss lightly, only to be responded by their lips getting together again.
"I love you too, Frederick…I shall pray for Naga for that to never change." She answered and got their lips locked once more, her hand going back to his shoulder and rubbing his neck slightly with her fingers. Frederick felt goosebumps when Robin started to pass her hand on his chest-how nice and relaxing felt for his worn body. Being noticed by a lady's hand and not some enemy's sword.
"Milady, have you never heard you should eat your breakfast before your dessert?" He joked as Robin touched him further, now with both hands. They still wouldn't stop kissing, though it ended when she snorted.
"Speak for yourself, big guy…seems you forgot to place your brave sword away…" Her smile grew when Frederick's face got a little redder. He cleared his throat, trying to take control of the situation.
"I apologize…is mostly the position."
"Is it? Well…since you were so kind of bringing it out. Why don't you let me forge it?"
Frederick felt he was going to die. How direct can a woman be?
Must be those homosexual romance books.
It must be that.
"Robin…I…I do not wish to…make you feel I'm pressuring you. I assure you, my feelings are pure."
" Well, I believe you, my dear…I do…but we both have gone through much…through a war…together…but at the same time alone.I know you, Frederick…always worrying for others and doing your best to attend us all…but…now…someone can finally attend you. Allow me, Frederick."
Frederick stared at her. At her stern eyes and soft skin, with those strawberry looking lips. Which tasted better than anything he has ever tasted. A dim scent of sweets coming from her skin…making a contradiction with his herbs one.
"Darling, but we still have a long way to go. I don't want this to change anything between us...I wouldn't be able to bear it."
Robin only smiled, and giggled "Things will change…but only for the better, my love…I want more private sessions…and only for me…" She got closer to his face, and give a peck to his lips "Let us treat ourselves to some pleasure after so much agony…"
That threw Frederick off the rails. And he wasn't going to go back to pick up the convoy.
Windows were closed and curtains were pulled together. Only remaining the dim light of a candle now. As the door became locked, Frederick walked back to his maiden, who was standing beside the bed, looking adorably shy. Amusingly shy, since a few moments ago she looked like she was the one making him coy.
Robin would pass her hands around Frederick's body, while he would start to undo his clothing for her. She would only stare curiously at him, and as the vest was gone and the shirt opening more, her heart flunked lightly at seeing such big scars on him.
She gently passed her fingers on them, and could feel how Frederick tensed when she passed her fingers there,with the candle lit lightly, she could only appreciate more the form of his muscles and the rich colour of his skin.
"You're so handsome…" Robin looked up with a shy look in her eyes, but the sweetest smile she could give him. "I always found you so attractive…even when you were always telling others to distrust me." Her eyes changed to a challenging stare "But now that I think about it,I believe you were using that as an excuse to follow me around."
"It was my duty." Frederick did not even flinch of the accusations he was receiving "For once I heard to reason, and decided that even I deserved to treat myself."
Robin pushed back Frederick's shirt, and kissed his lips lightly "Thank you,Frederick...Tonight, I feel I may be able to sleep without nightmares." Robin took a deep breath "And even if I do...I won't be alone."
"Milady..."
"I only beg you...to keep this a secret for now...I still don't want to share this with anyone...I wish to hide it even if my body beams my love for you...I don't wish to share this with anyone but you. Not until...I know the woman I trully am."
He wrapped her arms around her, and kissed her passionately. Robin would let out long sighs as Frederick's mouth moved down her lips and neck, his hands pushing away the robe that covered her body: letting show a light green sleep dress made of the finest materials. Odd sounds would come out of Robin's mouth, and Frederick enjoyed every moan or sigh her lovely lady would gift him. Their kisses becoming hungrier with each next.
But soft sounds wouldn't be enough for him tonight.
