Alright, finally getting to one of the royals. It's not Ryoma (yet) but hopefully, it will suffice for now.

C

Takumi: Scarlet, do you have a moment? I want to ask you something.

Scarlet: Of course, Lord Takumi. What can I help you with?

Takumi: I would like to spar with you if you have the time.

Scarlet: Sure, I'm game. Mind if I asked what brought this on though? You've barely spoken to words to me before now.

Takumi: I just thought you might be a tough opponent. If I was wrong, I can ask someone else.

Scarlet: Hey, now I was just asking. No need to be rude.

Takumi: So, it's a yes then?

Scarlet: Sure. Name the time and place.

Takumi: Here and now. I have two training swords right here.

Scarlet: Certainly don't waste any time do you? Alright, Lord Takumi, ready when you are.

Takumi: Good. Don't hold back, Scarlet. I want to see what your full strength is like.

Scarlet: Careful what you wish for.

(Later)

Takumi: *huff* *pant* I . . . I lost.

Scarlet: *huff* Looks like it. You put up a good fight though. Haven't had a duel that intense since I challenged Ryoma.

Takumi: Did you win?

Scarlet: You kidding? He beat me without breaking a sweat it seemed.

Takumi: After dueling you myself, I doubt it was that easy for him. I see how you earned his respect though.

Scarlet: Is that what this was all about?

Takumi: Yes, I wanted to see what kind of warrior could earn my brother's loyalty. Now I know. Thank you, Scarlet.

Scarlet: Sure, but it wasn't just my . . .

Takumi: Sorry, but can this wait? I need to go see a healer. I think you bruised a muscle.

Scarlet: Sure. Until next time, Lord Takumi.

B

Scarlet: Hey, Lord Takumi?

Takumi: Scarlet.

Scarlet: Can we talk about that last mission?

Takumi: I'd rather not. I've never been so humiliated.

Scarlet: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to embarrass you.

Takumi: No, I'm embarrassed at myself. I led the troops poorly. If you hadn't taken charge like you did, things may have turned out much worse.

Scarlet: That's what I want to talk about though. Why weren't you leading? You just charged in like a madman.

Takumi: I've never aspired to be a leader. I've only wanted to prove myself as a warrior. Someone strong like my brother.

Scarlet: Got a bad case of hero worship there.

Takumi: I don't know if it's quite that. Everyone respects Ryoma. They rely on him and feel safe when he's around. I want to be the same.

Scarlet: Can I let you in on a secret?

Takumi: Um, sure.

Scarlet: It isn't just his strength as a warrior that makes everyone respect him, and that isn't what earned me his respect either.

Takumi: Then what was?

Scarlet: It was my ability to lead. I met Ryoma as he was about to be captured by a large contingent of Nohrian troops. My men were easily outnumbered. However, I coordinated them to hit the leaders and any soldier that looked important. Soon, the troops were disorganized and retreated. Ryoma was so impressed, he asked to join me almost immediately.

Takumi: That was it? Then when did you fight him?

Scarlet: Oh, not for a while, and it was only for fun really. The point is, Ryoma earned people's respect by showing them that he could lead them not just that he could fight well. Although, for the record, he's probably the best warrior I've ever met.

Takumi: I suppose you have a point. Thank you, Scarlet. You've given me a lot to think about.

Scarlet: Anytime, milord.

A

Scarlet: Lord Takumi, how did your mission go?

Takumi: Well. We managed to complete it without any incident. Ryoma even he was proud of how well I led it.

Scarlet: I knew you had it in you. You just needed to get those priorities straight.

Takumi: I did. I should thank you for your advice, Scarlet. I wouldn't have changed anything if you hadn't set me straight.

Scarlet: You'd have gotten there eventually. I just helped make it sooner rather than later.

Takumi: Still, I would like to repay you for your help. If there's anything you need, just let me know.

Scarlet: Actually, if you have the time, I'd like to duel with you again.

Takumi: You would?

Scarlet: Sure. You've matured quite a bit since our last duel. I would like to see how that plays into the way you fight.

Takumi: Alright. Truth be told, I've been itching for a rematch myself.

Scarlet: Great! Don't expect me to let you get even though.

Takumi: I'd be insulted if you did.

S

Takumi: Scarlet, may I speak with you a moment?

Scarlet: Sure, milord. How can I be of service?

Takumi: Please, call me Takumi. I don't want things to feel so formal between us anymore.

Scarlet: Alright then, Takumi. What's up?

Takumi: I've been doing some thinking lately about what it takes to be a good leader. Particularly what makes my brother such a capable one.

Scarlet: I wouldn't get so caught up in comparing yourself to him. You're growing to be a good leader in your own right.

Takumi: That's just it though. I'm still learning, and I've noticed that Ryoma and Corrin both have people supporting them. Pushing them forward.

Scarlet: So do you. You've got some good retainers and friends. Plus, I'm always here to back you up.

Takumi: I know. Actually, it's your support in particular I've come to value. I want you to be by my side from now on to help me.

Scarlet: Oh. We talking like a commander or something?

Takumi: Actually, I was thinking something outside of just battle. You help me put things in perspective and help me see myself as more than just Ryoma or Corrin's little brother. I need someone like that in every part of my life.

Scarlet: Takumi, are you saying what I think you are?

Takumi: I hope so. I want you to be my wife, Scarlet. For more than just your advice and guidance though. I've grown to love you dearly and I can't picture my future without you in it.

Scarlet: Wow. Heavy stuff. I'm almost at a loss for words.

Takumi: If I'm being too forward, I apologize. I just needed to at least say it.

Scarlet: Hang on, let me finish. I said I "almost" didn't know what to say. My answer is, yes. I accept your proposal, Takumi.

Takumi: Y-You do?! Ha! Thank you, Scarlet. I promise to never make you regret it.

Scarlet: You goof, I already know I won't. Just promise you'll be backing me up as much as I'm backing you.

Takumi: Absolutely.

Scarlet: Then we're good to go!

I actually think this might be my best one so far. I' really pleased with how well it turned out. Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoyed!

Next time: Kaden