Things are progressing nicely with this one. I'm really happy to see it's gone down so well. If you're new to my stories then why not check out A Night with Corrin? It's a Fates story focusing on Corrin and a Hoshidan swordsman. Before I get started, be sure to share around Songstress if you have friends who enjoy Three Houses.

Now then. Let's get started shall we?

Lipstick

At last; a chance presents itself. I may be able to stay here after all. With it however, comes a decision.

The Black Eagles are in one hand. My homeland rests in the other.

It's been a week. I can't bring myself to decide. Goddess be praised, Dorothea is happy. Heck, we met again on Saturday to talk over my concerns with Adrestia. She's becoming increasingly cheerful as time slips through the hourglass. I saw the happiness in her eyes as we parted ways before bed the other evening. There's hopefulness in each kiss we share; she's even taken to holding me by the arm when we walk the streets of Garreg Mach's township.

What to do. There's lots for for me to consider.

Do I have it in me to serve the Empire? Now that I think about it, how would my parents feel if I left for a foreign holding? I'm Alliance-born. Goneril is my homeland. Duke Holst is the firm but fair ruler of the lands my family built their bakeries upon.

And speaking of Goneril, things haven't improved between Hilda and me. She's continued keeping her distance. Sure, she'll occasionally glance my way, but she's quick to retreat when our eyes meet. She looks so unhappy; pained, even. It's as though she wants to reach out to me but won't.

Have I been selfish? Did I let my hurt get in the way?

"Rolan," Professor Byleth calls from the front of the classroom. She taps her chalk upon the board. "You missed roll call. Should I mark you as absent?"

Goddess - I'm spacing out again. "No ma'am," I shake my head. "I'm here. Just a mite distracted. Sorry 'bout that."

My response gains a few giggles from my classmates.

Professor sighs shortly, "Please pay attention. It's not like one of our best swordsman to daydream at his desk."

"Won't happen again, Professor."

Class pushes ahead well enough. Lysithea rises from her seat to answer questions about Magical Theory; she powers through about six or seven pages before anybody else gets a word in. Not that anyone matches her skills. Small she might be (and I wouldn't dare say it to her face) but she's extremely talented in her knowledge of the dark arts. They say she reduced a bandit to ash in a recent skirmish. Scary. Very scary.

"Very good, Lysithea," praises Miss Byleth. "You can sit down now. I have an announcement to make."

Once Lysithea is seated Professor stands from her desk. She grabs a fresh chalk and commands everyone's attention by sharply clearing her throat. Idle chatter falls away; the classroom is quiet enough to hear a pin drop.

"As you know, another group of brigands have occupied Zanado. The Knights of Seiros asked us help in this matter. With this in mind, we'll be travelling to the Red Canyon this Sunday to deal with them. I've already made my selections, so please listen carefully..."

There's an anxious flutter in my stomach. I've only been selected once so far - outside of The Battle of Eagle and Lion. Miss Byleth placed me in the rear-guard against those strangely dressed flame cult guys. I crossed swords with a few of them; had to take them down. Having to end another living breathing person left a heavy feeling in my stomach, but it's the reality of battle. You live or you die.

"Everyone I list needs their garrisons and equipment ready for a final check on Saturday."

Professor starts drawing up names on the chalkboard.

Claude

Leone

Lysithea

Sir Claude's a given, while Leone and Lysithea are two of our very best. I'm not surprised.

Ignatz

Hilda

My stomach dips a little. I do hope Hilda will be alright out there on the battlefield.

Rolan

Marianne

Me? I didn't see that coming. Guess I have a sword to polish in preparation for Sunday. Battle should help take my mind off things. It'll be a real test, too; a situation entirely different from the practice battle shared by the Three Houses recently. Here's hoping I'm up for the task. Scratch that - I am up for the task. Bandits cause nothing but grief for kind-hearted people. It'll be an honor to best a few in battle.

Church bells chime loudly, signalling the end of class for the day. Okay. I should begin getting ready. The day after next? Zanado.

I quickly gather up my papers and slide them into the safety of my satchel. Being at the back of the classroom makes it easy to leave without hassle. I'll stop by my dorm room to pick up my sword before heading in the direction of the training grounds. What better way to prepare for combat than through practice?

"Rolan..." I stall at Hilda's voice; my heart thumps, "Do you have a minute?" I turn back, stopping in the middle of the busy courtyard. Miss Goneril fast approaches. "Please? I won't take up too much of your time. Not if you don't want me to."

I have no right to feel angry - not when I was quick to dismiss her in favor of Dorothea. I should follow Professor's advice and be kind. "What's up, Hilda?"

"Professor put your name on the board... I wanted to be sure you're okay."

"It's a few bandits," I force a smile to calm her fears, "What's the worst that could happen?"

"I-I guess you're right... But don't go wearing yourself out fighting. It'd be waaay to much hassle."

I've no reason to feel uneasy. Even before coming to the academy I spent plenty of time honing my passion.

"No need to fret," I reassure Hilda, "I'm looking forward to sharpening all I've learned on the frontline."

Miss Goneril comes nearer, resting her hand upon my shoulder. She stares nervously, "Or you could stay at the back when the battle starts; where it's safe - beside me." Her lips rise into a glassy smile, "I'd be way less stressed if I knew you were out of harm's way. I- I could-" She pauses, blushing furiously "I guess I could watch out for you... But don't expect too much."

It's good to see Hilda pushing herself. Not for my sake; for her own.

"Sounds to me like you're enthusiastic," I tease gently, "Well... As enthusiastic as you can be."

My heart aches behind the facade. Just a few days back we were fine. Now? My childhood friend feels so far away. If I keep forcing this my composure's gonna crack. Everyone's leaving lessons at once. I can't falter in front of such a large group of people.

I ease back, "Guess I'll be off. Do enjoy the rest of-"

"Rolan, wait... I made a mistake," Hilda's grip upon my shoulder tightens the slightest bit. "I panicked the other night. I was afraid I'd only disappoint you. But that doesn't mean I don't care about what happens between us... I do, I promise."

A few of the other students are us giving strange glances. I hear whispers from some of my first-year Golden Deer classmates. Now isn't the time for a conversation like this one. The last thing we need is gossip to deal with. Goddess knows the entire monastery is full to the brim with tall tales. Very few are content to keep to their own business. "We should finish this talk later."

"Y-You're probably right. Or we could get out of here. Let's go." Hilda snags me by the wrists and leads the way out of the courtyard. She pulls me along with surprising strength. Finally, we come to a stop by the commoner dorms - out front of my room. It's quiet here. We can conduct our talk in peace and quiet.

"I'm sorry for running out the way I did." Smiling painfully, Hilda lowers her head, "I-I'm not good under pressure, you know me."

Professor Byleth's advice returns to mind. I shouldn't be arguing with friends and classmates. Seeing Hilda so damn sad brings her point hammering home with awful clarity. I'm terrible for judging her. Life is fleeting and dangerous. Even if the two of us end up walking separate paths in time, my flame won't fade.

"It's alright, Hilda." I pat her upon the head. "Stop apologizing. I couldn't lose my temper with you. I just took things a bit too personally."

Fearfully meeting her eyes with mine, Hilda presents her hand.

"What's this for?"

"Our promise," she answers me, "Even if you can't stay at the monastery... let's do our best while you're here. Shall we?"

Whatever the future brings, be it a summer in Adrestia or the toasty ovens at one of Gesalt Bakery shops, I can't bare being at odds with Hilda. I accept her hand and reaffirm our agreement with a soft touch of my lips against her skin. "Whatever happens... I'll always regard you warmly."

"Happy to hear it." Having gotten what she yearned for, Hilda's expression turns cool and serious. "Now that's outta the way... Are you free tonight, before lights out? Or are you seeing Dorothea?"

I twitch at Miss Goneril's question. How is the rumour mill spinning so quickly? I've tried with extra vigor in the passing days to keep my priviate life under wraps. "Who's twisting stories like these? The Black Eagle's songstress keeping the company of a guy like me?"

Hilda gives a wry chuckle, "I overheard Sylvain. He was grumbling about Dorothea turning him down for the ball. And I realized why when I saw her outside your dorm on Thursday. It was after sunset - on my way from the bathhouse. She kissed you."

There's no sense in denying it. Try as I might, word travels fast. Really, I'm lucky to have kept my feelings for Dorothea quiet for as long as I have. I bow my head in defeat. "Ah, you saw that? Well... It's true. I won't lie to you... I care about her, as much as I care about you."

Hilda's stony leer softens. She snorts with laughter. Stunned, I raise my head to face her.

She flashes me a mischievous wink, "I knew it. Knew it since day one. Goodness, Rolan. Playing it risky, aren't we?"

"Y-You what? Excuse me?"

"Oh c'mon now. It was so obvious. I see how she gives you googly eyes in the hallways. I noticed weeks ago."

"You already knew?" Well damn. I've been tricked. I deserve it too. "Why wait until now to say something?"

"Cuz I wanted to wait for the dust to settle after the other night. Annnd I wanted to see if you'd own up; confess your feelings like a real man. You passed my little test with flying colors, if a little late. You're still the nice little boy I remember from my childhood after all."

"A-A test?" I can hardly believe it. "You're not angry?"

"A little," Hilda admits, "But I'm a big girl. I can handle some competition - even if it's a bit of a pain. And why should I be worried?" Her expression drops a bit. "You'll be leaving-" The noble lass pauses. Her eyes widen as though she's been struck by a lightning bolt of inspiration. "N-No! I've got it... You don't need to leave. I have an amazing idea! I'll write to my brother, and I'll go see Lady Rhea."

The Archbishop? How might she help the situation?

"I'm lost as to what you're thinking, Hilda."

"I'll explain everything later. I only hope there's still enough time. Can I stop by your room later tonight?"

Whatever she has in mind, I shouldn't turn her down. I'll cut back on my swordplay. I'll make time.

"Sure. I'll be back from the training grounds before lights out."

"Fantastic." Hilda draws me into her arms, cuddling me like a teddy bear. "I'll see you later!"

With a peck on my cheek, she's off again. This is the most serious I've ever seen her.

Midnight. I can't sleep no matter how hard I try. My every attempt at relaxing is met with restless thoughts. How will Hilda support me? What will I do if Dorothea's plan falls through? I'll be left with no choice but to return home to Goneril. How am I supposed to look mother and father in the eye again? Will they see me as a failure for not finding a way to stand against the unforgiving hands of circumstance? Damn it. This is all so frustrating.

I suppose it's true what Pop said. I can be awfully negative at times. It's hard to stay hopeful when a situation's out of your control. It's why combat appeals to me. You improve so long as you're dedicated. It's a matter of skill and fortitude - not fortune.

I turn over and close my eyes. Hilda's yet to stop by again. I wonder why she needs to write home, and speak with Lady Rhea. The archbishop is a busy woman. She doesn't have the time for the plight of a commoner like me. And Duke Holst is concerned with keeping the Almyrans at bay.

"Need to sleep," I grumble, burying my face within my pillow. "I've tossed and turned long enough."

There's no way I can begin preparing for the battle at Zanado unless I'm well-rested. There's no room for sleepy mistakes.

Leaning over, I blow out the bedside candle. It's about time I-

A faint knocking upon the door flares my senses. No way is somebody wandering around this late at night. It's two hours past curfew; the knights usually patrol for the more rebellious students at this hour. It's probably just my imagination.

"Rolan," comes a whisper from beyond the door; Hilda's whisper. Okay. It's definitely not my mind playing tricks on me. She knocks again, this time harder. "Psst. Would you let me in? It's cold out here..."

If we're caught, we're in trouble. If I leave her outside to freeze, I'm equally in trouble. I need to let her in.

Quietly climbing out of bed, I slip on my short trousers and stumble toward the door. Thank goodness I'm fairly adept at getting around in the dark. Collected, I pull back the deadbolt and bring the doors open.

"About time." Hilda mumbles. There's no wonder she's cold. She's not wearing her class uniform. A short (dark pink) nightgown just barely conceals her wide hips and ample curves; while a simple pair of frilly white ankle socks cover her dainty feet. Slung over her shoulder is a small leather satchel bag.

Goodness she looks pretty; with the midnight moon beaming down upon her smoothly lotioned skin she could be mistaken for an angel. I take a deep breath, and a second. Dammit, Rolan. Keep it together.

"Are you gonna let me in? Kinda chilly out here."

"O-Of course." I snap back to the moment. What am I doing, gawking like an idiot? Taking a backward step, I welcome Hilda into my room. I'm quick to re-light my bedside candle after bolting the door shut behind us.

"Well that was tiring," Hilda exhales exhaustedly, flopping down against my untidy bed. "I've never had to sneak around like that before..." The noble lass breathes deeply; her chest rises and falls in a weighty rhythm. Collected again, she sits upright and gives a wink. "Sorry I'm a little late."

"A little late?" I bite my tongue to avoid raising my voice, "It's midnight, Hilda," I scoff, "What held you up?"

"It took way longer to write home than I planned. Then I waited for hours to see Lady Rhea; she was busy at the cathedral. I totally forgot it's choir day."

I roll my eyes. When Hilda's not brilliant she can be outright ditzy. More than that, her explanation doesn't make any darn sense. Most staff and students are fast asleep at this hour. Why's she wandering around in her nightclothes? There's no way in the name of the goddess she visited the archbishop dressed so informally. A woman as pure and regal as Lady Rhea would blush at the sight of so much bare skin.

"It's midnight - the twelfth hour," I double down, "Why come all this way?"

"I want to be extra sure everything's alright between us..." Hilda smiles weakly, lowering her head. "You deserve a real apology, for the way I ran out on you last week." Her voice is raspy; strained. She clamps her hands tightly in her lap. "I know you said it's fine, but- I-It was wrong of me... I'm so sorry. I mean it, from the bottom of my heart. Can you forgive me, Rolan?"

Her words mean a lot. I'd be lying if I said her swift departure the other day didn't sting, but she didn't need to risk being seen out so late at night. Furthermore, I should be the one apologizing. Hilda's going out of her way for me; she deserves honesty. "Only if you can forgive me... You and Dorothea- I'm selfish for-"

"Oh my, you're a precious first-year in plenty of ways. Don't be upset." Hilda covers her mouth to stifle laughter. She's grinning like I'm an innocent little kid. "We're in a monastery; we're surrounded by dozens of young nobles and rising commoners. Everyone's looking for the most handsome lord, or the perfect lover. Lemme ask a question. How many do you think bend Lady Rhea's rules on courtship?"

I haven't thought about it before, "Erm... I dunno. Maybe a few?"

"Almost everyone," Hilda sniggers. "You needn't feel bad," she assures me. "It's why there's the tradition of choosing your true love on the night of the ball."

"R-Really? Could've fooled me. You're not unhappy with me?"

"I was a little at first... but you're forgiven. I trust you've not been too naughty. You're a sweetheart."

Hilda opens her arms to me, pleading with her eyes for my embrace, "Now... How about you come over here?"

A request I cannot refuse.

At a single nod on my part Hilda rises from the bed; beyond pleased, she throws her arms around me. I breathe the sweetly honeyed scent of her shampoo, holding her with all of my heart. I thought she'd given up on me. I was wrong. Both she and Dorothea are trying in their own ways to support me, even if Hilda has yet to open up on her newfound idea.

Whatever. It doesn't matter; not right now. At this very moment I'd rather treasure this lass for all she's worth.

Yes, she's lazy at times. But I wouldn't be without her.

"I thought you'd be upset with me," Hilda confesses with quivering eyes. "Every time I get scared of disappointing people I run away."

"And this time around you didn't," I reply with warmth and gratitude, "You came back to me. I'm happy you did... Because-" I pause nervously; my whole body feels warm all of the sudden. I should tell her; Hilda deserves to know my innermost.

"Because what?" she asks with concern, "Is every-"

"It was wrong of me to doubt you, Miss Goneril; as wrong and selfish as having eyes for two women. I'll admit it here and now. You're kind; you're thoughtful. And you're supportive. A-And I know I shouldn't... but if I carry on like this I'll fall in love with you..."

Hilda blinks. Once. Twice. Thrice. The corners of her mouth rise into a wide grin. "Oh Rolan..." She grabs me, burying her face against my shirt. "Why are you so scared of how you feel? You've grown up to be such a lovely guy, but you've gotta stop overthinking everything. It's gonna make you unwell."

"Why I'm scared? You might not like the answer..."

"Try me, silly."

They say looking in the mirror is the hardest task of all. Here goes nothing.

"Ever since I was small I've had my dream; my passion to pick up a sword and fight. It drives me forward against all odds. It's shaped my outlook in everything I pursue. I wanna be someone; show the world what I can do. If I don't... I'm worthless - wasted talent."

Hilda gasps. My words wound her. She clings even tighter to my shirt, "Stop being so gloomy. You're not worthless... not to me."

I wish I could believe her, "You really think so?"

"Uh-huh. 'Course I do. You know your what your problem is? You put way too much on your shoulders. Buck up." Hilda rests her head upon my shoulder, sighing. "Learn to love yourself... You're a lovable person. I'd know... cuz I love you."

I'm stunned to silence. My eyes blur with water. "You can't mean that."

"But I do. I love you. And even if I'm afraid... I'll fight for you; for us. After all, you need me as much as I need you."

"Hilda I-"

"Don't say anything. You don't have to. My first dance is yours on the night of the ball. All I ask is you be a gentleman."

She eases my deep-rooted pain with her lips against mine.

We share tearful kisses - lost in the heat of the moment. The soft hue of orange candlelight shimmers against Hilda's perfect skin.

I wish this moment could last forever.

Hilda eventually breaks away, drying her eyes. She steps around me, picking up her discarded leather satchel. I watch with interest as she starts rooting around inside, "Where did I put it?" she hums. "Ah, there it is." From the depths of her bag she brings out a small red cylinder. Popping off the top reveals a stick of rosy pink lipstick. "Thought it was here somewhere."

She brushes it sensually across the surface of her pillowy lips, blowing a playful kiss my way. "C'mere..." She purrs lovingly, inviting me with a waggle of the finger. "I've been waiting to give this a try..."

My breaths quicken. I'm hot under the collar. "Isn't that stuff crazy expensive? Doesn't it stain?"

"All the more reason you take off your shirt for me. It's okay. I'll be careful to leave it in places the Professor can't see."

Miss Goneril casts aside the lipstick and inches nearer. She latches onto my collar. With attentive fingers she slowly brings my buttons loose one at a time. "You're sweating," she teases as my garment comes free, exposing my glistening chest. "Hmm... I'm gonna enjoy this."

"Hi-Hilda," I rasp. "We should be-"

She drops to her knees and brings her lips against my stomach. She's tender in her movements, slowly inching higher and higher until her eyes meet with mine again. A trail of lip-shaped marks cover my tummy, rising toward my neck in a smooth and even pattern. Beads of sweat inch down my glistening skin. All the while Hilda brings an arm over my shoulder and around the back of my neck.

Our lips join as one. I surrender all that I am to her, moaning in passionate submission. T-This is what heaven feels like.

Hilda shivers when we part, "W-Wonderful. She brings her hands lower; joining them with mine, she flashes a glance toward the bed. Shall we bundle up beneath the blankets? I'd love to listen to your heartbeat again. I'm sleepy..."

"Of course."

We climb into bed and cuddle beneath the sheets. I lean over to blow out the candle. Hilda coils am arm around my stomach once she's nice and comfy, laying her head of silky pink hair against my chest. She clasps my hand in hers and squeezes tightly. Comforted by her gesture, I feel my eyes gradually becoming heavier.

"Rolan," Hilda whispers, "When we head out to Zanado... stick close to me. Don't be reckless."

I chuckle in light of her consideration, "What makes you think I'd be reckless?"

"You're eager to prove yourself," she answers, planting her loving lips against the nape of my neck. "You try too hard."

"And you should try a little harder."

"Hmmm..." Hilda closes her eyes, yawning. "We're made for each-other."

I some ways, I couldn't agree more. "Yep. I'd say we are."

It's so peaceful being beside someone special like this. I wouldn't change it for the world. Slowly but surely my worries melt away, leaving me alone for a time. I bring my eyes shut too.

"I'm not worried about her," Hilda mumbles in a tired haze, "Dorothea, I mean..." She holds me tighter, "Cuz I've got you figured, Rolan. Who you are. How you feel. You're my loyal baker boy; you'd never betray me. I trust you'll stay by my side. It's why I went to Lady Rhea..." The noble lass yawns again. "...To ask if you can remain here..." Without another word, my dear lady falls into a peaceful slumber.

Now I know why Hilda hurried off earlier. And I couldn't be more thankful.

Both the women I love are fighting for me. I'll soon have to stand tall and decide where my heart belongs.

Until then? I'll get some much-needed sleep.

To be continued...

There you have it. Another chapter comes to a close! Did you enjoy it? Would you like to see more in future? Feel free to leave some feedback and share your thoughts. As always, keep on supporting Fire Emblem and I'll see you in the next chapter. Thanks again!