Summary: Just some more bonding time and getting ready for the winter festival

Notes: I am sooo sorry that I hadn't updated this fic for so long. It's been hard to produce fluff with everything going on. The thing is though, I think we all could use fluff right now, and I know working on this has soothed my soul a little, so I hope it can bring some joy to your day Note: I did leave some pieces from the spice scene of the original nsfw i have on archive(lunafox90 website archive of our own), not detailed on any of the actions, but I did keep the important emotions and thoughts because of the importance of his trust in her as well. It's at the very bottom once they get back to the bedroom.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

-40-

Kisses to her neck and a touch on her shoulder made Byleth blink as she shifted. It took her a moment to realize where all the warmth was coming from. There was a weight on her leg. One of the wyverns must have decided it was a good sleeping spot. Dimitri was pressed up against her with his hands roaming softly over her back and shoulders. Guren's fur tickled.

Dimitri seemed to notice that she was awake and pressed his lips to her forehead. "Morning, beloved."

Byleth hummed as Dimitri stroked her with the backs of his fingers. "Feels nice."

It was dark inside the curtains. She could barely make out the outline of any of the shadows with her. Guren was still pressed up against her other side. Dimitri let his kisses wander over her like his hands were until he met his lips with hers. The kiss was sweet and tender, but Byleth found herself pressing herself into Dimitri to deepen it.

Dimitri broke the kiss, and she felt his fingers caress her face. "As much as I'd like to stay here and continue, I made a promise to you. Let us get ready. I need to make sure you're covered up enough to stand the cold."

Byleth snuggled further against him. "But it's so warm here with you."

Dimitri chuckled. "I know. Trust me. The view is worth it."

Byleth groaned and wrapped herself around Guren as Dimitri left through the curtain. Byleth shivered at the sudden influx of cooler air.

Guren shifted under her, and she could feel his huffs of laughter. "Get used to it, Ashen."

Byleth glared at the wolf before she nestled deeper against his fur. The curtain opened again, and Dimitri laid some clothing beside her. This time he hooked the curtain open, leaving the air drafting in.

Byleth grabbed the colder cloth and dragged it to her as she groaned. She didn't want to get up yet, and the thought of stepping outside didn't appeal to her if getting out of this bed was going to be such a temperature difference.

Dimitri was shuffling around the room. Byleth heard the clank of logs as he stoked the fire. The kettle with water was placed on its hook. He was grabbing clothing and things for himself from the sound of it.

Byelth squeaked as one of the wyverns, pressed their nose against her skin. Guren barked with laughter this time as Byleth turned to pet whichever wyvern had given her the cold touch.

Roksana put herself between Byleth and Guren. The wyvern nestled against the warm fur as Byleth was forced closer towards the opening.

Dimitri's arms wrapping around Byleth's waist made her jump, but she nestled into him as her head rested sleepily against his arm. "I was going to be nice and let you change where it was warmer, but you seem to be a little too comfortable."

Byleth recognized the tease in his voice too late. She didn't have any time to respond before Dimitri pulled her into his arms and off the bed. The indignant yelp she gave only had him chuckling as he tightened his hold on her and kissed her neck.

Byleth rolled her head back to give him more access as she let out a small sigh as his hands caressed her over the nightgown. "I could be more comfortable in that cloak of yours."

The puffs of his breath as he laughed tickled against her skin. "You have your own, but you're more than welcome to borrow it when you wish."

Dimitri sat her down on her feet, his hands lingering for a moment before he pulled away from her. Byleth grabbed the clothes he brought her before she tugged on the smallclothes and pants under her nightgown. She wasn't looking forward to taking off the nightgown and the warmth it provided for the rest, but she didn't have much choice. When Dimitri handed her the cloak he made her, she couldn't help but snuggle into it. It was so warm, Dimitri must have put it near the fire for her to heat the fabric up.

Dimitri had his own cloak on before he stood near the frosted-over balcony door, watching for the first signs of dawn. "I don't want to keep you out there longer than necessary."

Byleth nodded as she stepped over to him. When he finally opened the door, the cold burst of air that came through made Byleth shiver. Dimitri went out first, kicking away the snow to give her a place to stand and to avoid any slick patches of ice. Byleth put up the hood of her cloak and stepped outside.

Dimitri opened up his own cloak and motioned towards her. Byleth settled against his chest, and Dimitri wrapped his arms around her, surrounding her in his warmth as his cloak covered them both. She felt him move until his chin rested atop her head.

The new light of dawn was finally peeking over the mountain ridge. The way it scattered across the landscape took Byleth's breath away. The light refracted on the snow, seeming to make everything sparkle, just as he had described. She had never seen such a sight before.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" His voice resounded through her from his hold.

Byleth could only nod as the sky became an array of dazzling colors. Ignatz would have a field day with this scene. She'd need to recommend it to him the next time he was here in Fhirdiad. Her breath billowed in dense fog as the wind took it elsewhere. The sight had almost made her forget about the cold. Dimitri's warmth was also doing wonders for her. She took her gloved hand and intertwined it with his hand on her shoulder.

She felt Dimitri's lips in her hair. "It is beautiful, but I don't want you getting sick for staying out too long. Hopefully, it was worth waking up early for."

"Yes, thank you for this." A part of her wanted to continue to drink in the sight, but he was right. She was not used to cold winters, and even with his warmth, she was still shivering slightly under her cloak. The last thing she wanted was to spend half her time here sick and unable to spend time with him.

He shuffled them inside, and the temperature difference was a welcome one. Dimitri went to getting more things ready as Byleth curled up on the couch in front of the fire. "You know I almost like this arrangement better for the couch," she mused, curling up into the blanket he left.

His chuckle came from behind her as Roksana got into her lap and nestled against her. "If that is what you prefer, it can stay that way."

He was moving one of the side tables closer to her, and she noticed the box from Gaius' sweet shop that he put on top. A part of her wanted to dive straight for it and see what was left, but she could be patient. On her lap, the wyvern made something akin to a purr as Byleth stroked her head and watched as Dimitri continued to gather things like mugs and tea bags.

Guren laid himself over Byleth's feet as Maxism climbed on top and rested himself against Byleth's leg. Roksana lifted her head to glare at the other wyvern, but decided after a moment that there was no threat, so she laid her head back down.

It was good that the wyverns were getting along now. They would be spending a lot of time together, after all. Byleth hoped that Ashe, Sylvain, and Dedue would take up the offer to get their own Sreng wyverns. It would be nice for all of them to take a flight at some point with Ingrid.

Byleth leaned her head against the back of the couch as she remembered that Ingrid wanted to take her flying later in the week. It still left her with a little bit of fear, and she hated the feeling.

She heard the clink of the mugs on the table. "What's wrong?"

There were times she missed her expressionless mask. Even now, after her heart began to beat, she still felt numb sometimes. "Just thinking about Ingrid's flying lessons."

Dimitri came up behind the couch and laid his hands on her shoulders. "There's no shame if you aren't ready for it. Just know that if you ever fall again, I will be there to catch you. Ingrid asked me before she came up with the suggestion because she was worried about pushing you. It saw you with Claude and his wyvern that made me say yes. Please don't dwell on it. If you're not ready, no one will force you. Roksana isn't big enough to fly yet, and we have plenty of time."

Byleth tipped her head further so she could see him. "I need to get over this. It's irrational."

Dimitri leaned down and kissed her brow. "The last time you fell, you were hurt enough to sleep for five years. It's understandable to hold fear towards something that hurts you. You are brave and strong, Byleth, but you are not invincible. We all have vulnerabilities, but as you've shown me, we can overcome them. It will take time, and even then, there is the possibility that you aren't ready. We'll still be here for when you are."

Byleth reached up to cup his face in her hands. "Whatever it is you're doing, finish it and come cuddle with me."

Dimitri chuckled before he kissed her hand. "As you wish, beloved."

Dimitri moved to get the hot water off of its hook before he poured it out into the two mugs. "What flavor would you like?"

Byleth eyed the sweet box again. "Mint, I think would go good with those cookies."

After he put the tea bags into the cups to steep he sat down beside her. They sat in front of the fire for a while with his arm around her shoulder and Byleth leaning against his chest. "We do need to think about the Winter Festival and what we will be doing this year. It correlated with Garreg Mach's Founding Day, and Seteth told me in his letter that he has given you a request to lead a sermon while you're here."

Byleth gave him a peeved look. "And why are you reminding me of work?"

"Because it needs to be done. There are plenty of preparations that still need to be made. As much as I wish we could be leisurely like this for all the time you're here we, unfortunately, don't have that ability."

Byleth sighed. "Comes with the territory. There's always paperwork or things that need to be taken care of. Sometimes it feels like there is no time for ourselves, just the roles we fill."

Dimitri moved to grab the mug for her. "Yes… it is a heavy burden, but I at least like to know that our work benefits others."

Byleth took the mug of tea from his hands. "That part has been nice, but I also hope you haven't been overworking yourself. It's been good to have Seteth around. He's helped where he can."

Dimitri bent down to pet Guren. "He's been making sure that I don't overtax myself. Rodrigue and Gilbert have been helping where they can. I am starting to understand more tasks as I go along and things settle down. It doesn't make them any less tedious, but it does help."

Byleth nodded before she leaned over to grab the box he left on the table, trying not to disturb the wyvern. "It's been a rough couple of months, that's for sure, but also, It makes me more grateful to have this time with you." Byleth fed him one of the cookies before she grabbed one for herself. "And with this many sweets, it might be best to have a sparring session later."

"I would love to. It still feels odd to not practice after so many years of making it into a habit out of necessity, so it's still part of my routine when I'm able."

They stayed for a while longer side by side as they sipped at their tea and talked about the different things they've been doing in their respective positions and the help that the other previous members have been helping more in their respective territories. It was nice to see that every classmate was on their way to finding their place in the world. Fodlan was slowly getting back onto its feet, but it would take longer still to get everything settled down from the war finally.

Which meant more work to do. Byleth breathed Dimitri in as she wondered what they would do once they withdrew from their roles. They certainly wouldn't stay as king and queen forever.

Claude had a good analogy when he referred to Fodlan as a newborn. They could only guide it so far before they would need to let it function on its own. Feeling Dimitri's warmth beside her, she didn't regret her choice to intertwine their lives together.

Then another thought struck her. "What will we do if our children don't have our lifespans?"

The words just tumbled out of her mouth, too quickly to take them back as she felt Dimitri stiffen beside her. "I'm sorry, it just…"

She tightened her grip around the cup in her hands. Then she felt his lips against her hair as he pulled her closer to him. "It still feels strange to think about that side effect of our bond. I've avoided those thoughts for the most part. It will be one thing to lose friends over the years, but…I do not want to imagine that possibility. I hope since it is a bond of blood and magic that if we have children, they can reap the benefits of a long life as well."

"If?" Byleth echoed.

"I have not forgotten about our previous conversation. I don't care what my council says. I will not risk your life to have an heir. Since I'll be abdicating once I know things are settled, I won't need one. Now a child with the woman I love, that will depend on her and what she wants. It is not an obligation. If you fear the possibility of them aging while we do not, I will understand if you do not want to have them at all."

That explained her question as to his plans. She sipped some more tea as she settled into his embrace. "We have time to think about it, at least. I'm sorry for just blurting it out like that."

He carded his fingers through her hair. "It is something that we did need to discuss. What made you think of it?"

"Claude's words about Fodlan being a newborn and thinking of how I don't regret intertwining my life with yours. They just came together in my head, and that came gushing out."

Byleth was just glad his mug was over on the table. He probably wouldn't be too happy about spilling hot liquid all over them because he shattered his cup from her question.

Guren looked up from the floor. "I wouldn't let that fear stop you. You have the goddess on your side, and I'm certain Rhea or Seteth will divulge their secrets if it is needed."

Byleth nodded and intertwined her hand with his. "I would like to try after the wedding for one, I think. I don't know if I'll make a good mother, but I'm willing to learn."

"You? I don't even know id I'll…"

"You will both do just fine." Guren interrupted with a huff. His mouth hung open a moment before he put a paw over his face. "Sorry, I know you've talked about your fears with me, but she hasn't heard them."

Dimitri went to grab the mug and stared into the contents. "There is no need to apologize. There is still plenty of time and plenty more to talk about than something so far in the future."

Byleth nodded and finished off her tea. "It's as you say, whatever the obstacle, we will face it together."

Dimitri gave Byleth a small kiss. "That we shall."

Byleth smiled and returned it before she snuggled into the fur of his cloak while she let him finish off his cup. The rest of the time was silent as he stroked her shoulder, and they both listened to the crackling of the fire.

Byleth almost fell back asleep, but Dimitri's movements stirred her back awake. It looked like he was trying to shoulder out of the cloak. "I was going to let you sleep some more."

Byleth circled her arms around his waist and nuzzled against his chest. "No need, but thank you for the consideration. Let's go to the training grounds and then start our day."

Dimitri nodded. "One other thing, after you have tea with Mercedes, I'd like to take you somewhere."

Byleth looked up, curious. "Oh?"

Dimitri only smiled. "It's a secret, but I hope you'll like it."

Training went well, and it was nice to get to spar with Dimitri again. Felix or Seteth usually took her morning sessions. Dimitri was pulled away to take care of some of the paperwork that required the king's direct attention. Byleth wasn't sure how long that would keep him occupied. She had some of her own planning to do and a sermon to write up. She should have known that Seteth wasn't going to let her out of doing work while she was here instead.

The thoughts of where Dimitri would like to take her teased at the edge of her mind. Guren lay at her feet, wanting to spend some time with her. She could see how just his presence was helping Dimitri out. It was nice to feel that you weren't alone as you were working on a task. She noticed the pictures of her that Ignatz sketched sitting on Dimitri's desk, and it made her smile, knowing that she had a similar arrangement at Garreg Mach.

Once the task was done, she took her paperwork to the church associates that resided in the castle as liaisons to get everything ready for her. Dimitri would be dealing with something similar to get the winter festival underway. Decorations needed to get put up, events needed to be planned, food decided on, and everyone given their part to play. Byleth found her lips curving into a smile. It was similar to wedding planning without the main event.

Guren looked up from where he padded at her side. "I am glad whatever you are thinking about can make you happy."

Byleth paused long enough to crouch down and pet the wolf at her heels. "I am. It's strange how just being near him can make me feel lighter."

Guren closed his eyes as his tail wagged from side to side. "Love can do that to a person. I am glad that I got to see you like this."

Byleth rested her forehead against his as she reveled in the friendship she knew she had in him. "I am glad that you are finally free from what Cornelia did to you. You do not have to stay with us, you know. We would miss you, but if you ever want to go back to your roaming, you know you can."

Guren huffed. "And miss free meals and warm fires?"

Byleth chuckled before they moved on to meet Ingrid outside. The chill of the outside air seemed to sap even the warm feeling she had as dread crept up her spine. She felt Guren press against her leg, silent support for the fear she knew he was probably smelling. Byleth took a deep breath, the air billowing in front of her when she exhaled.

Ingrid was tending to the saddles and checking to make sure everything was ok. Byleth hesitated in her approach, wondering if she was strong enough to do this. Then Ingrid caught sight of her, and the smile that spread across her face made Byleth knew that she was at least in safe hands. Claude had given her more strength than she realized, and Dimitri's words echoed in her mind from this morning. She couldn't be afraid forever.

With that, she steeled her resolved and pushed forward. "Morning, Ingrid."

Ingrid gave her a nod. "Good to see you, Pro... ah, it seems old habits are still hard to break. Good morning Byleth."

Byleth came up to approach the pegasus beside her. Guren stayed back to make sure he didn't spook them. Byleth wished she didn't have to wear these gloves from the cold. She loved the soft texture that pegasi had in both their fur and feathers. These two were very well maintained. Their coats were shiny and healthy, and their wings were strong. "Are you the one that's been taking care of them?"

Ingrid beamed. "Yes, his majesty…. ah, Dimitri, put me in charge of both the pegasi and the knights that ride them. It's been a fun task, and I will make sure that there are no slackers. Such is my duty as a knight."

Byleth only chuckled as a blush covered Ingrid's cheeks when she felt she had to pause and say Dimitri's name after she slipped up to use his title. Byleth sometimes wondered which of the Blue Lions still had the worst time trying to abide by Dimitri's wishes. Byleth turned to where Ingrid had a covered bundle and uncovered the pegasus knight armor underneath it.

Ingrid came over to her. "Because of the cold winds, you will need some insulation. The helmet will keep it from stinging your face. There's also balm there for your lips, so they don't get chapped."

Byleth nodded as she got ready with shaky hands. Ingrid's smile turned into a grim line. "You don't have to do this."

Byleth nodded. "I know, and I don't want you to feel like you're forcing me. I need to get over this, and the further steps I can get allows me to face the fear that is threatening to stop any progress. I can't promise you that I'll be able to get into the air today, but the important thing is that I tried."

Ingrid patted her shoulder. "Just don't push yourself too much that you take too many steps backward."

Byleth nodded before she placed the helmet on her head. Then, with a calmness she didn't feel, she mounted on top of the pegasus. Ingrid was silent as she mounted on top of her own. "We can just trot around for now and take in the castle grounds."

Byleth took a breath before she gripped the reins. "I think I like that idea. Guren, find Dimitri, and I will meet up with you later. I'll be going and having tea with Mercedes once this is done."

The wolf nodded before he trotted off to follow her command. The pegasus she rode was docile enough. The wings were tucked and the feathers brushing against her leg as they moved. Byleth let Ingrid talk about her new job and how she enjoyed knighthood to help keep her nerves calm. It was a pleasant conversation, and she was also proud of the strides she and Sylvain made in trying to convince people that crests were not as important as people invested them as.

They reached a long stretch of the path, and Byleth took a deep breath as she patted the pegasus's neck. "Alright, let's try this."

Ingrid nodded as she went first, the pegasus spreading its wings and taking flight into the air. She hovered there, waiting for Byleth. Byleth gulped and gripped the reins. Terror had her shaking in her saddle. The pegasus snorted and shifted from foot to foot, reacting to her fear.

Something caught her attention on the balcony above her, and she saw Guren and Dimitri. He had the wyverns with him, and they were perched on the balcony ledge, watching the flying pegasus with interest. Byleth took a calming breath as she soaked in his presence. No matter what happens, Dimitri would be there to help her back up. She had to trust in the mount below her. She had to trust in herself and not let fear paralyze her.

Byleth felt the change in how the pegasus got calm below her as well. "Alright, no hesitation."

She snapped the reins, and the pegasus went galloping and spread its wings. She felt the rush of air as it jumped and climbed. Byleth did her best not to look down. She kept her gaze forward. She took a few laps around Ingrid before it became too much. She tilted the reins towards the balcony that Dimitri watched her from.

When the pegasus was at an even height with Dimitri, she edged it closer to them as Ingrid called out how to get the pegasus to hover. Both wyverns were flapping their wings and trying to get into the air, but it would still take some time for them to grow into them.

Dimitri reached out his hand to place it on Byleth's shaking leg. "I am proud of you, but don't push yourself. Small steps are enough."

Ingrid came over to her, and Byleth handed over the reins to her. She hated this feeling. Her entire body was shaking. The pegasus was hovering over the balcony. If she fell, she wouldn't sustain any damage, but still, the fear persisted. She was so frustrated with herself.

"I'm here to catch you. You aren't alone in this." Dimitri's voice filtered into her head. His touch soothed her. She closed her eyes and focused on that and the slight rise and fall as the pegasus beat its wings to stay aloft. She gathered her breath as she slung her leg over the side of the pegasus. She'd have to time it right so she wouldn't smack into one of its wings or hooves.

Then she took a breath and slipped off. It felt like an eternity passed. Her heart leaped in her throat. Memories washed over her, but then she felt Dimitri's arms as she fell into them. More wind rushed past her as Ingrid led the pegasus away from them. A sharp click of Ingrid's tongue had it moving back down to the ground with her own pegasus following close behind.

Dimitri pulled Byleth close as she buried her face into the fur at his shoulder. "I am such a coward."

She felt his lips in her hair. "Beloved, a coward wouldn't have even gotten onto the pegasus. They also wouldn't jump. They'd wait until they were back on solid ground. You are stronger than you know. Don't dwell on what you couldn't handle. Think about what you were able to accomplish."

Byleth couldn't help but nod. She didn't believe the words just yet, but she knew that she would probably come to rely on them in time. For the moment, she was happy to let Dimitri carry her inside while she took deep, calming breaths.

Mercedes's room held Annette and Sylvain waiting for her. Byleth almost expected Felix to be there, but she had to say she wasn't surprised to see that he wasn't. Mercedes went to making tea for everyone as Byleth told them about the brief time she had in the air on the pegasus.

Once the tea was made they caught up with each other until Sylvain turned his attention to Byleth. "So you mentioned some sort of ribbon. What did he end up doing? I know what I suggested to him, but I am curious to know exactly what he did."

Byleth shrugged and talked and answered the questions that came her way as she fondly remembered what Dimitri did to her that night. All three of them would interrupt with outbursts and sometimes the girls would giggle, but Byleth managed to get through the conversation without too many details.

Mercedes had a devious look in her eye when she shoved a few black silk ribbons towards Byleth. "I found out that the tailor that's been working here in the castle knows a reinforcement spell for fabrics. With their strength it's really easy for the royal family to rip apart their clothing. He shared the secret with me since I make things for you and Dimitri as well. I think you'll find that you might be able to repay the favor and get him a little wrapped up in you."

Byleth took the ribbons in her hand and pulled them taunt, pleasantly surprised by how well the spell seemed to work. "He had asked to be at my mercy. I'm not exactly sure what that means to be honest."

A sly grin curved on Sylvain's face. "I have a few ideas for you."

Byleth turned her attention to Sylvain as all three of the women listened and commented on his suggestions. Byleth was sure that Dimitri's ears were burning wherever he was in the castle, but the information would be well worth any embarrassment that came from this.

This would be the first time that Byleth would have been through the northern gate. The southern entrance led into the city. The snow pillowing down around them made the trees look even more majestic. Dimitri had his arms around her as he took the reins and led the horse down a path that seemed well-traveled. When the horse stopped Byleth had to take in the sight around her. It was a large pond that glimmered in the sunlight.

"How'd it get so smooth? It's like looking into a mirror with how it's reflecting the scenery."

She heard Dimitri release a sheepish chuckle. "Well, I knew that it's easier to learn when the area is smooth so I had some of the mages come out and get it ready for us."

Byleth tilted her head back so she could see him. "Learn what?"

Dimitri pressed a kiss to her forehead. "I want to teach you how to skate before you need to do it in front of an audience. It's also something that I'd like us to do for fun later on if it's agreeable to you."

This hadn't been what she expected but she had to say she was looking forward to it. "So you'll be playing professor, huh?"

A smirk bloomed on his face at her teasing tone. "Hopefully your motivation is high today."

Byleth answered by twisting around and kissing him directly. He kissed her back before letting go of the reigns and dismounted off the horse. He turned back to her and she put both legs towards him before he helped her slip off. Instead of her feet touching the ground, he held her there in his arms as he brought her into another kiss. He had a shy grin when he broke away and she couldn't help but nuzzle against his cheek and hug him.

He took a deep breath as his arms encircled around her. Then when she slipped her arms free he let her drop back to the ground. He grabbed the saddle back off the horse and handed it to her while he tied off the horse and gave it a feed bag. Byleth opened it up to find what looked like knee braces in her size and two pairs of shoes with blades on the end. They each had a wooden cap on the bottom to keep the edges covered.

"I grabbed the bracers to make sure your knee doesn't end up bothering you later."

Byleth looked up at his instructions and then looked around for a place to sit to put the skates on. There was a small covered bench next to the lake with a place that looked like you could hang fishing poles. "This is also a common spot for ice fishing. I imagine you'll want to try that at some point as well."

Byleth nodded. She had heard of the sport and was curious. She took the skates and bracers over to the bench after handing the bag with the remaining skates to Dimitri. He followed her over and knelt down in front of her as he helped her out of her boots. "You've gotten better at that you know."

Dimitri looked up, a little confused at first. Then he must have remembered when he had yanked a little too hard the first few times when he had done this for her because his face flushed. "I apologize for those earlier attempts."

Byleth only reached out to run her fingers through his hair. "If it means moments like these, then you have nothing to apologize for."

He smiled softly before he went back to his task. "Actually, ever since that binding ceremony, it might seem odd, but I feel like I've had more control over my crest. It's activated less at random."

Byleth though a moment as he traded out her boots for the skates. "Well, Sothis and the crest of flames are the origin. Perhaps before you were missing something that you possess now."

"That would make sense. Now for these make sure that your heel is all the way to the back and I'll show you how to tie these properly. Be sure that the laces are fully undone before you slip them on. You'll need to start tightening from the bottom up and make sure your heel is snug against the back. Now is this too tight?"

Byleth shook her head as he nodded and moved to help her with the other skate. With the snow falling behind him and gathering on his cloak she couldn't help but smile at the sight he made. He stayed there kneeled when he was done to lay a kiss to the knee that had the scar. "This requires bending your knees for balance so if you feel like it is about to seize up let me know immediately."

Byleth trailed the back of her fingers against his cheek. "I will, but I don't think it will be more of a strain than all of the battles we've had to face." A smile curved her lips, "or bending them in bed to wrap around you for long periods of time."

Dimitri quirked a brow as he looked up into her teasing expression. "I'll just have to be more mindful of our positioning in the future then won't I?"

Byleth only shook her head and patted the bench. As much as she was enjoying this, the wooden bench was cold and she didn't want to sit here for too long. They also still had things they needed to do in town, so these few hours were all they had before they needed to return to the hustle and bustle required of their titles. She put on the knee bracers while he changed into his skates.

The first thing he did was show her the proper way to fall so she wouldn't wind up slicing herself with the blades. She couldn't help but giggle at him covered in snow and splayed out, but she was able to understand what he meant about making sure that her legs went out away from her body if she felt she were about to fall.

When he finally took her out onto the ice she had to cling to his arms as he held her up. She was so afraid she was going to make him tumble too. Most of it was balance, posture, and the direction you tilted your feet. He started with the basics and when he showed her with examples she barely felt like she could stand still, much less skate with the effortless skill he had.

Dimitri was graceful and wonderful to watch. He had them leave the cloaks on the bench so they wouldn't tangle them up if they were to fall. His face was flush and he had a smile on his face that was wide. It wasn't often that she saw him this happy. He was thorough in teaching her as well. She was still shaky after all the instruction, but it seemed fairly easy to pick up, after several falls on her ass to teach her what not to do.

His laughter echoed around her, although he tried to not to. He would curl his lips in and try not to, but she could see how hard he was fighting it on some of her more glorious falls. She wouldn't complain. She was new at this and to hear him laugh like that she would take a few bruises. Then he reached out his hand and pulled her close, telling her which direction to swivel her feet as he led. They glided over the ice and she found herself feeling more confident as she turned to twist to be beside him and they both skate side by side.

"May I try something?" Dimitri asked after a moment.

Byleth only had a small hesitation before she answered yes. The next thing she knew she was clinging to Dimitri's shoulders as he scooped her up. He stood still a moment to adjust his hold and tell her where to keep her balance. Once that was taken care of he took off at a pace that had her frightened at first. The cold wind threatened to whip the hair out of the bun that the girls had put it in for her.

He made it look so effortless. He spun and turned with very little trouble or adjustment. He never faltered in his posture once. The fear faded and she started to enjoy it for the freedom that it was. It was almost like… Byleth blinked as she realized what he had done. She was still low to the ground, if she fell there wouldn't be any lasting damage. Even more than that, she knew that she could trust Dimitri not to drop her.

She nuzzled into his neck as her lips curled into a smile. "Thank you, there are times when I don't think I could love you any more and then you do something extremely sweet that makes my heart grow fonder of you."

He tilted his head toward her. "I was hoping that it would help, but I also thought you'd enjoy it without the added benefit. Do you think you can handle me going faster than this?"

Byleth tightened her arms around his neck and nodded. It was ethereal out here with the sights around her, and they blurred past her as he went at full speed. The rush made her heart leap into her throat, but she trusted him and took a deep breath and let herself relax in his arms.

Then he started to jump. "Ok, now you're showing off." She muttered.

He only grinned in response as he started to do a few more tricks like spinning them around. It was exhilarating and she forced herself to keep calm and focus on him. Then she felt him shift her in his arms. "Let go, and trust me. Cross your arms and keep them tight against your chest. Keep your body straight, don't curl up."

A shiver of fear went through her, not knowing what he planned. He had slowed down to a gentle pace. She took her arms away and did as he asked by crossing them over so each hand lay on one of her shoulders. He kissed her forehead before he picked up his pace again.

When he slung her up into the air for a spin the air left her lungs when she felt the momentum fade and bring her back down. Dimitri caught her by her waist and let her down slowly and she felt the skates hit the ice as he led her to spin around him before pulling her to him in a hug as he kept them both steady.

"Was that too much?"

Byleth was trying to get her breathing back under control, but what surprised her most was there was a smile on her face. "No, that was… I can't explain it."

He kissed her temple as he held her. "I have more to teach you, but I don't want you getting sick. We need to keep our intervals out here short and give our bodies time to warm up and recover."

Byleth nodded as she steadied herself against him. She pulled away and tried to move on her own. She was still shaky on her feet, but she was proud that she was able to skate on her own. Dimitri stayed close but didn't try to interfere. Soon she had enough confidence to go faster and she tried to do a lap herself. She was proud when she came back to Dimitri, her strides in her march higher as her speed increased.

"Byleth try to slow down, you're not used to this yet. Try to stop if you can, tilt your feet like I showed you."

She ended up leaning too far back and winding back up on her ass as she skidded a little bit. The scrape of his blades on the ice next to her made her envious of him again.

"Are you hurt?"

She shook her head no and got onto all fours to push herself back up. He took her hand after that and took her over to the edge before lifting her over the lip onto solid ground. She felt more embarrassed than anything. She did feel a bit sore, but it wasn't worse than her bruised ego. "I had fun."

"Good, but we'll need to teach you some more things before you're ready to start learning tricks."

She would have to agree. They returned to the bench where they slipped out of the skates back into their boots and donned their cloaks. Then it was back on horseback to the castle for some hot chocolate or tea before they needed to go out into the city. After all of the excitement, Byleth found herself nuzzling against his chest and taking a small nap. With one hand leading the reins, Dimitri let the other wrap his cloak around her and give her a place to rest.

The town was bustling with activity. The winter festival was one of the larger celebrations in Fhirdiad, but they haven't had a chance to host it in the years that Cornelia had been in power. The city was full of life and noise as the people got booths ready for selling wares. They took their experience in running the errands at the monastery and applied it here to keep everything running smoothly.

There was one task that Dimitri wasn't looking forward to. The tree that his father had placed in the center of the city all those years ago had been left to rot. It needed to be uprooted and a new one placed. It was a tradition for the townspeople to bring carved talismans to the tree on the eve of the festival. Each talisman could carry a wish for a dream to come to fruition, words of thanks, or just a simple prayer for good harvests or profits.

Byleth was at Dimitri's side when the old tree came out. His hands shook and she knew that the look on his face meant that he was fighting with his demons again. She stayed beside him, her hand tucked away in his while he fought for his composure. She had the old tree taken to the woodsmiths. Most of the wood was rotten, but there was still some wood that could be salvaged. That she would give to Dimitri to cave his own talisman out of. She also had a piece for Rodrigue and Gilbert. The larger piece she would see what Dimitri would want to do with. The tree might not stand any longer, but the symbol would remain.

It was certainly a sight to see Dimitri carrying an entire tree that was so much taller than even he was. It was difficult to try to get it through town without breaking anything. Dedue and Ingrid were directing him to where the tree would be replanted. Hopefully, this tree would be able to stand for many more generations.

Byleth showed him the wood that she was able to salvage and where it came from and she was surprised in the crushing kiss he gave her under the tree. A few of the townsfolk cheered and that made him break away with a blush on his face. Byleth's face also burned, but she decided she didn't care what others thought when she pulled him back to kiss her again.

Dimitri seemed to be in a good mood as they made their way back to the castle. Byleth was just happy to him smile. He took great pride in his city and the rebuilding efforts. The new decorations for the winter festival for booths and events were being placed all around the city. He could tell her every beam he carried and helped set up. He liked it when he could use his crest for the good of others, and he had certainly been busy today after they got back from the lake.

Byleth smiled fondly at her attempt to skate. The fact that Dimitri was always so nimble on his feet, so it hadn't surprised her that he was good at skating. She still wasn't sure if she'd be ready to skate surrounded by other people when the festival happened. She wouldn't mind dancing in a ballroom, but skating, she was afraid she was just going to fall and embarrass him; even worse, slice someone with the skate on her way down.

A gust of cold wind made her shudder. She pulled her cloak closer to her. Then she suddenly felt warm when Dimitri pressed her against his side as he put his arm and his cloak over her shoulder. Byleth enjoyed the fact that Dimitri didn't hide his affections for her. Byleth reached over and clasped her hand in his as her other arm wrapped around his waist. He had to shorten his stride and take smaller steps so he wouldn't leave her behind, but she knew he wouldn't mind. It was warm against him, the perfect bane against the winter's chill.

The moment they were through the castle gates, Dimitri lifted her into his arms to cradle her against his chest as they made their way to the royal suite. Guren lifted his head in greeting. Roksana and Maxsim were both curled up against him.

Dimitri sat Byleth down as he grabbed the key for the room. Byleth leaned down to pet Guren. "Would you mind staying out here tonight? I want some time alone with Dimitri."

Guren snorted. "You leave me babysitting the wyverns while you go out and mingle, and now you tell me I can't sleep in the bed. That's rather unfair of you, Ashen."

Byleth kissed Guren on his forehead as she held his muzzle in her hands. "Extra serving of meat in your breakfast tomorrow morning?"

Guren growled before he huffed. "I'll make sure no one disturbs you, but both of you are taking the wyverns tomorrow. I am not your wyvern sitter."

Byleth nodded and ruffled the fur on his head as she heard Dimitri unlock the door. She smiled before she slipped in ahead of him. "Give me five minutes."

Then she closed the door while Dimitri stood outside, not sure what just happened. Guren snicked before he laid his head on his paws. Dimitri seemed at a loss, his fingers running over the hilt of his dagger Byleth gave him. What in the world was she planning now? Dimitri leaned against the opposite wall while he waited on her. Then he heard a knock on the other side.

Taking it as his signal to enter, he went inside and locked the door behind him. The wyverns have already figured out that they can open the doors by hanging on the handle, and Byleth made it clear that she didn't want any unwelcome guests.

Dimitri's eyes widened, and Byleth trailed her nails across his jawline. She grabbed the blindfold off the bed next to her. "I love you, Dimitri. If anything gets too overwhelming, let me know."

He held her for a moment and let out a deep breath. "I trust you."

She decided to start with the blindfold first. He also had to spend so long without his sight in one of his eyes. The last thing she wanted was to bring up bad memories. When she had that tied off, she let her fingers linger in his hair.

She loved that such small things could have such a big effect on him. She splayed her hands as she explored the grooves of the muscles along his stomach. The stretch of skin over bone was far less noticeable now. He was filling out more from all of those years of malnutrition, and she couldn't help but be happy for him.

Byleth nuzzled against his cheek. "My handsome lion, you took such good care of me like you always do. I want to take care of you now."

He always gave so much to her. Her fingers trailed over the scars that marred him. He wouldn't be able to see the sadness in her eyes. Most of this happened when she couldn't be there for him. She went to kiss and stroke every scar as a silent apology. There was no rush tonight, and Dimitri deserved every kindness she could give him.

Byleth traced the crest of flames that appeared over his heart to signify their soul bond. It was barely visible now, just faint scrollwork of darker skin. She made sure to leave a kiss there as well. His trust, his love, there were so many things she was grateful for having him, and he had chosen to spend however long their lives would be with her. She was sure she couldn't find a better partner. Together they could overcome any obstacle.

When Byleth removed the blindfold his vision was filled by her. The firelight was gleaming off her darker hair and catching her lashes to give her an ethereal glow. His crest was just a touch darker than the rest of her skin above her heart. Dimitri wasn't sure how he had gotten so lucky to have her. He had never thought he deserved to be loved after the sins he committed in the past, but she had given her whole heart to him.

"I love you, Byleth." Those simple words were something he needed to tell her more often.

The small smile that curved her lips bloomed into one that took his breath away as she leaned forward. Her hair tickled against his chest as her hand came to caress his cheek.

"I love you too, Dimitri."

Notes: I'd like to thank every one of you. Some of you have been with me since the beginning when I didn't even know what I was doing. Your comments have fueled me over the months and I am so glad my personal project brings joy to others. Some of you even extended a hand to help me learn to do become a better writer, others giving me encouragement. I would not be at this point without your support and for that I thank you. Next chapter is going to be the winter festival.