Robin groaned as he discarded yet another plan. He had been up for a long time going over one mission. It was not even that complicated of a mission. Reasonably dangerous, yes, but nothing that was too outlandish. He had definitely sent Shepherds on worse.

The problem was that she had volunteered for the two person mission.

Logically, Robin knew that Lucina was extremely well suited for a reconnaissance mission like this. Paired with Lon'qu, the two were practically guaranteed success, and for anyone else, he would have been content with that. Trust in their skills like he had for so many Shepherds before and move on to other operations.

But he could not let it go.

He was determined to make their plan so airtight that nothing could possibly go wrong and thus no harm would befall her. He tried not to dive too deep into why he was being so protective of her even if he knew the answer. For now, keeping her safe was his top priority.

Unfortunately, it was impossible for him to really feel at ease with simply a plan. Too much could happen in the field. Then he had an idea. Was he being silly? Was it an abuse of power? Perhaps, but he was already writing up the orders.


Lucina had her small pack over her shoulder which she had prepared for the mission. However, she was having trouble spotting Lon'qu which she found odd. He was usually early. Lucina did see Robin approach though.

"Ah, Robin. Have you seen Lon'qu? He is usually early for assignments."

"He's not coming on this mission anymore."

"He's not? Is he ill?"

"No, I just reassigned him. I'll be going in his stead."

"You?" Lucina eyed the tactician, "For a simple survey mission?"

"Any less strange than sending royalty?" Robin started on his way, "Well? You coming?"

"Er, right."

Several hours into their mission neither of them had said much of anything. Lucina could not bury the idea that he had done this to keep on eye on her for some reason. She thought they had come to an understanding, but she was rethinking that position.

She held her peace until they made camp, but she wanted answers.

"Do you not trust me to carry out this mission?"

"What?" Robin looked over from where he was counting provisions, "Of course I do. You're one of our most capable when it comes to guerrilla maneuvers."

"Then why would you change the roster to keep an eye on me? Do you simply not trust me in general, or are you afraid I'll work myself to exhaustion after our previous conversation?"

"Well, you do tend to work yourself hard, but I can tell you've been taking measures to look after your health. As for do I trust you, I don't think you're a spy if that's what you mean."

"Then why did you come?"

"Er, why?" Robin diverted his eyes back to the provisions, "Is it so odd?"

"Yes," Lucina pulled the lip of the satchel back down, "I think it is."

"Oh, um, I meant no disrespect."

"Alright, but you still have not answered my question."

Robin blushed as he cleared his throat while still refusing to look her in the eyes, "It's a bit embarrassing to say out loud."

"It's fine. I'm not in much of a position to judge for embarrassing acts."

Robin sighed. He knew when he was backed into a corner, "I just was worried about you."

"You care about the safety of all those under your command."

"Yes, but not like this. Not to this extent. I know you can take care of yourself, but I was desperate to make sure you were safe. I eventually decided the best way to put my mind at ease was to go with you."

"Robin, I don't know what to say."

"Sorry. This must all sound extremely creepy."

"I think it's sweet if a bit unnecessary," Now Lucina was blushing as well, "It's sweet that you're so concerned for my safety, but I promise that I can handle a mission like this."

"I know, I know. I didn't mean to insinuate that you couldn't. I'm sorry if I gave you that impression."

"You did, but now that I know why, I'm not upset. However, in the future, perhaps it would be best not to upend the mission. It's sweet to care, but let's not devolve to fretting."

"Right, sorry."

"Well, no matter now. I'm sure we can manage this on our own. I trust you have actually done reconnaissance before?"

"Of course. I made sure to familiarize myself with most types of missions at some level."

"Good," Lucina smiled, "And, um, if it makes you feel any better, your safety means a great deal to me as well."

Robin finally smiled at that, "Thanks. It does actually."

There were things left unsaid that night, but they would get their chance before long. For that night, they relished in the knowledge that the other was safe, and perhaps more importantly to them, that the other cared deeply.

A/N: What do you prefer reading? Them before they're a couple, them as a couple but not yet married, or married life?