It was at the Great Tree Moon when he became king.
The events all happened in a flash. What he anticipated to be a peaceful travel back to his lands turned out the exact opposite; common folk were running for their lives, the buildings and infrastructures crumbling to disarray. The sudden pandemonium rattled his mind and would've struck him frozen if it were not for the presence of Dedue, who assured him he had his back. He handed him a weapon, and the moment his fingers wrapped around the scabbard, whatever feelings of uncertainty were replaced with something more powerful.
Fury prickled on his insides, a familiar burning sensation. Rage seeped in intense intervals thinking of those responsible for disrupting the peace in their lands. The anger was eventually unleashed as he swung his sword at an approaching hostile force intending to go after an innocent bystander, whose eyes gleamed with several emotions—there was fear for almost being in the brink of death, the other was gratitude, which was further fortified when the civilian sputtered his thanks while grasping his hand firmly.
By then he realized that gone was his blinded, seemingly directionless pursuit for the dead. No, it didn't mean he had forgotten about them—they would forever be his reminders to continue living in the present and atone for everything he had done.
His vision was much clearer: he simply wanted nothing more than to protect the living, especially those who could not defend themselves. And he swore to do everything within his power to turn his vision to reality.
The battle carried on for another day. He already discarded two weapons that had been dulled by use, but he went on, fighting beside soldiers with the banners of Fódlan. . .until he reached Fhirdiad.
More fighting. Yet his spirit never yielded, driven to fight for his country, his people. . . until there no longer was any clashing of blades.
Savior King, it's what they had called him.
He was still unsure of the title bestowed to him in their victory, but their voices—the chants of the people, living—continued to echo through his ears. Different emotions entered him again, but instead of doubt, distress, pain, the voices brought him something else.
Relief. Hope. Delight.
But at the same time. . . Pressure. Hesitance.
His feet still stood in the shadows of the palace, refusing to bask in the light of the sunset. Beneath them, he knew the people were waiting.
Did he really have what it takes?
"Your Majesty?"
Rodrigue's voice snapped him out of his thoughts, and he looked back to see everyone who supported him.
"You got this, Dimitri." Sylvain winked, just as Ingrid elbowed him on the side. "What? I can still call him that. Our little agreement will only be voided once he steps out. Just enjoying it while it lasts."
He knew it was his friend's attempt to calm his nerves. His efforts were something he truly appreciated.
"Thank you, Sylvain."
"Well, they're waiting." He turned to Felix, whose remark lacked its usual sharpness. Beside him, Dedue, along with Gustave, gave a supporting nod.
"I really think you'd make a great king," Hilda's voice reminded him.
He shook his head, attempting to summon a smile despite the tingling of his nerves. He wouldn't really know unless he tried, right?
He took the first step, and the next, and the next . . . until he was facing his people whose cheers grew even louder when he was within their eyesight.
He was home.
It was at the Harpstring Moon when things especially became more hectic. Apart from dealing with the reconstruction efforts of the capital and other affected areas, he also started to have deliberations about reestablishing the independence of Duscur, along with making peace with the Sreng region. All the responsibilities as the head of the region came crashing onto him, and a part of him wondered if going back was indeed the right thing to do. . . What if he failed them?
All the doubts gradually went away whenever Rodrigue entered the picture, who kept on assisting him despite the injuries he sustained from the recent battle. Rodrigue, who continued to stand by him despite all his past immaturities.
After a long day with the Kingdom council, Dimitri finally summoned the courage to approach him first. To ask for forgiveness. Forgiveness for taking for granted all his efforts done for his sake.
Rodrigue simply looked at him without a word, before speaking that he'd accept only if he would also forgive him for not considering his feelings before.
After their talk, he felt the bonds of their relationship growing even stronger. Rodrigue continued to provide his wise counsel and assistance in his daily activities. Eventually, Dimitri soon realized he was also giving advice outside work-related tasks.
It happened one day when Rodrigue asked about other things he did for himself, apart from writing to his 'lady friend' from Goneril.
"H-how did you know?" Dimitri sputtered instead.
Rodrigue laughed, seemingly not offended even if he ignored his actual question. Thinking about it, bringing out the topic was likely his intention in the first place.
"I was merely speculating, Your Majesty. Sometimes I see you writing in the middle of the night, and I'm highly certain it's not related to work because one does not smile so fondly in front of paperwork. It seems now I have confirmed why."
"I could have been writing to somebody else," he said, looking away in an attempt to hide his embarrassment. He tried to be subtle in not letting anyone know of his other affairs. . . Especially since he knew he should be doing other things. "But your words are very oddly specific."
"I hope it doesn't seem like I'm prying too much with your private affairs, but various trusted sources have told me. The chambermaids also happen to whisper a lot."
He shook his head. There was no helping it; talks like that were inevitable in the palace, he figured.
"Well, she is someone precious to me."
"I'm sure she is." Rodrigue nodded with a smile. "Which is why I'm telling you that you have my support. I know your responsibilities are no joke, but please know I won't stop you in doing what your heart desires, especially those outside of being a king."
He thanked him, appreciating his words. Dimitri knew it was Rodrigue's efforts in trying to prevent his past errors from happening again.
The following week, he received an invitation from the professor for a summit at Garreg Mach. Familiar faces he encountered included Ferdinand the Prime Minister of the newly reformed Adrestian region, Lorenz the leader of the Alliance lands, Petra the Queen of Brigid, and Claude the representative of Almyra. Heads from the lands of Albinea and Morfis were likewise present.
Eventually, the deliberations started. It ended on a pleasant note that left Dimitri with high hopes for the improvement of diplomatic relations between all the lands present.
"Hey, Your Kingliness," Claude remarked when it was just the two of them left at the council room. "It's certainly great to see you again."
"Claude, I could say the same," he greeted back, though he couldn't find himself looking back with the same confidence. "As embarrassed as I am for my behavior the last time we met at Gronder, I wish to apologize for my actions."
"Ah, that's all in the past now. No use dwelling in it now, right?" Claude's gaze turned to the other people who had been speaking at the hallways outside. "It's nice, isn't it? To see everyone working with each other instead of fighting."
"It is," he agreed, watching the amicable exchanges of their former schoolmates, "This is the world you envisioned, right?"
"I'm sure this is what you wished as well."
Perhaps he did. The moment he took on the throne and assumed his responsibilities, he realized that he simply wished to rid the world of corruption and oppression against the weak. It seemed the lands had the most capable leaders at that moment—leaders who aimed to work together despite the cultural differences they may have.
"Did you know?" When Dimitri looked at Claude curiously, he seemed hesitant to speak again. "About Edelgard?"
Before, the mere mention of her name sent spikes of anger piercing his gut. Now. . . Only a dull, discomfiting tug lingered in his core.
"I have only heard brief reports, but I'm afraid I don't know everything. Not that I wished to, before."
"Well, we're talking about now. Do you want to?"
He pondered on it. He wanted to tell him that just like he said, there was no use in dwelling on the past.
But at the back of his head, he remembered the young girl who taught him how to dance. The girl whom he told to cut her own path.
The realization hit him like a dull knife gnashing at his skin. In the end, she was simply doing what he told her. Edelgard followed the justice that she believed in, no matter how twisted he thought they were.
He found himself agreeing, which prompted Claude to tell him everything he knew. Their battle at Enbarr. Their encounter with Dedue. Hubert and Edelgard's defeat. Hubert's letter. Shambhala. Up until they defeated the Fell King Nemesis.
"In the end, we all had a common enemy," Claude said, and Dimitri could sense how bothered he still was, "Sometimes I still wonder. If it was possible to just work together to defeat that force. And if perhaps we could have just settled our differences with less bloodshed right after that."
He wondered too, if a universe existed where he and Edelgard could co-exist with their ideals and reconcile.
Claude sighed, then smiling. "I guess in the end, we'll just have to prove to Edelgard that the path we're walking on is the best for everyone still present."
He nodded. Sometimes, he admitted feeling unworthy of his title, of where he currently stood. But just as Claude said, it's their responsibility to prove to everyone that what they fought for had been correct, and with the chances given to him, he was willing to give everything in his power for the sake of the people.
"Anyway, sorry for bringing up such a heavy topic after a nice deliberation."
Claude brought his arms behind his head, that very casual gesture he often did when they were students. Some things never change, he supposed.
"Just to change the topic, I'm wondering. Are you already being pressured to have heirs?"
"Claude!" he remarked with disbelief, though a part of him appreciated the other's efforts to lighten things up. That part of him didn't change too, apparently.
"What? As a king I'm sure you know what I mean. All the talks of political marriages and stuff?"
Dimitri shook his head, trying to contain a sigh about to be released from his lips. "Just to humor you, no, Claude. I have only recently ascended the throne too, after all."
"So are you saying you'll consider the marriage proposals when they come?"
With the tone Claude was using, Dimitri was starting to feel the prickles of irritation.
"What do you want me to say?"
"Just wanted to see if you're the type to get married for convenience." A pause. "Or for love."
Dimitri observed Claude closely, ignoring the rush of heat traveling to his face. He couldn't tell how much Claude knew about him and Hilda, or if he even knew anything at all.
"Don't get me wrong, Dimitri. I'm simply asking this as a concerned friend."
It annoyed him further that he also couldn't tell if Claude was doing it as a 'concerned friend' for him—if he even considered him one? Then perhaps he was really referring to his friend Hilda. Did he really know?
The rising grin at the corners of Claude's mouth was seemingly daring him to clarify who he meant.
But he wasn't simply going to let him win.
"There is someone I have in mind," Dimitri said instead, "Someone I wish to spend my life with."
"Mhmm. That's great."
"However, I'm unsure what she'd think about marriage."
Claude's eyes widened, a reaction he realized he wasn't expecting as well. The other's eyebrow then perked up.
"Why's that?"
"Politics is not her thing. She told me herself." He looked away, sensing a mild ache in his chest. "It's not something we have discussed, but by being with me, it's something she definitely has to face. I am uncertain of her feelings about it."
Claude crossed his arms. His gaze turned upwards, as if he was in deep thought. At the back of his head, Dimitri wondered if all his theatrics were also part of some sort of scheme he was brewing.
"How about you, Claude?" he asked before the other managed to say anything else. "If my assumptions are correct, you will soon rule Almyra yourself; there is a reason why the king of Almyra has chosen you to be here."
"And what of it?"
"I'm throwing the question back at you."
Claude didn't hide how amused he was with the turn of events.
"Well, allow me to humor you too. Like you, I'd prefer a union for love. In fact, I already have someone in mind too."
Dimitri eyed him curiously. Claude on the other hand, didn't seem fazed despite casually just revealing something about his private life.
"Maybe it's best if I don't reveal who it is," he remarked with a sly grin, "I mean, you didn't tell yours. It'd be awkward if we're actually talking about the same person. Wouldn't want us to wage wars again for fighting over a maiden, right?"
Dimitri stared back at Claude's eyes, wanting to tell him how ridiculous that sounded. In the end, assuming both of them really did love the same person, Dimitri thought he wouldn't go as far as to disrupt peace over such matters. Such drastic measures were unneeded when it would all depend on the decision and feelings of the person in question. If Hilda decided to choose Claude instead of him, then it simply meant he, Dimitri, already lost. After all, above all else, Hilda's happiness was what he wanted, even if that happiness wasn't with him.
But. . . that thought of himself losing, it didn't even cross his mind before. Because Dimitri was certain Hilda would choose him.
Right?
A tinge of doubt suddenly flickered within him, despite all their memories together. Then again, how could he be so confident when Hilda and Claude likely had more memories together even before the war? Wasn't Hilda also speaking fondly about someone in one of her letters to Marianne? Was that referring to Claude, after all?
He then realized that with the sudden spiral of thoughts in his head, he must've had such a dumbfounded expression. . .which surely, Claude had caught on, judging by the insufferable grin forming on his mouth. A grin that somehow seemingly lacked any malice coming from someone who was supposedly his rival in love. For a moment, Dimitri wondered if he already had fallen into one of his schemes without knowing it.
Before he managed to question him again, Lorenz had interrupted by calling Claude's name, which the other immediately responded to. Dimitri did not possess the will to stop him.
"A word of advice, though, Dimitri. If you're really certain about your feelings, go for it. Go all out. Prove your love to her." He winked. "Again, just doing this as a concerned friend."
He definitely did think about it for the days to come, and he wondered if that was actually Claude's plan in the end.
It was at the Garland Moon when he actively began to seek advice on what to do. Of course, their letter exchanges still continued, but Claude's words still echoed in his head: what more could he do in their current situation?
"Have you considered meeting her again?" asked Sylvain.
Dimitri pondered on it. He had thought about it at some point, but. . .
"A nice suggestion," Ingrid said, looking rather eager to contribute to their discussion. "Perhaps His Majesty can also invite her over to the best food places in town. Having conversations while eating is a nice way to bond!"
"Though if we're talking about food choices, I'm sure it'd be better if it was somewhere outside Faerghus. . . We're not exactly known for our food choices."
"Well, I get your point, but wouldn't it be nice if His Majesty shows her the best of our lands too? I hear Hilda is quite fond of shopping, so they could take a stroll at the capital afterwards."
"Hmm, good point. Maybe they could have lunch here at the palace, food served by the best chefs in the lands, then walk through the loveliest sights of Fhirdiad while holding hands. Definitely romantic!"
Felix made a face. "Ugh, you two are making me sick."
"Well, who invited the two of us here in the first place?" Ingrid snapped back. "Maybe you should try to contribute instead of complaining!"
"When the old man told me it was time for me to learn how to be the right hand of the King on this moon, I wasn't expecting those duties involved dealing with a lovestruck fool."
"Harsh," Sylvain commented, though chuckled afterwards, "But spoken like a guy who doesn't know a thing about love!"
Felix rolled his eyes. "Look who's talking."
"Okay, enough!" Ingrid interjected. "We're not being productive here. Sorry, Your Majesty."
"No, it's quite fine, Ingrid. If anything, I should be the one apologizing to all of you for involving you in this predicament.
"Nonsense, Your Majesty." Sylvain said, "Of course we'd be happy to help. Especially since the future of the Kingdom lies on this. Right, Felix?"
"Tch, fine, fine, I get it. Let's just get this damn thing over with." He crossed his arms stubbornly before speaking again. "Why don't you just ask her first? You're regularly sending each other letters anyway. Is meeting up even possible? It's pointless to think of all these things when both of you can't even meet in the first place."
In the end, Felix had been right, because circumstances simply didn't allow them the opportunity to see each other. . . She even declined the offer of him making adjustments, which he did not take against her. He knew she had reasons, much like how he did not want her to go out of her way just to see him with all the work that she needed to do. Perhaps they simply needed to wait for the right time.
It was at the Blue Sea Moon when Hilda sent a letter inviting him over to the opening of her academy. The event was two moons away, plenty enough time for him to make adjustments in his work so he could reserve those days just for her.
"Hmph, you finished this way earlier than I expected," Felix said one day as he browsed through the documents he finished revising.
His comment unsettled Dimitri for a moment, so he asked Felix to provide an honest feedback on the quality of his work. To his surprise, an amused sort of noise rushed out of the other's nose, and a rare smile made its way to his face.
"No, this is quite good. Keep it up."
Dimitri returned a smile, as he began to gather the rest of his belongings. Perhaps, the thought of finally getting to meet Hilda again inspired him to finish all the work needed to be done. The pace went on even until it was the Verdant Rain Moon, up until it was finally the Horsebow Moon.
The opening of the Goneril Artisan Academy had been a success. The people she invited made it, and all the presentations made by her partner teachers went on smoothly. Perhaps it had been the best choice to open it up on that particular month since it coincided with the foundation day of the Leicester Alliance, meaning festivities were all over the place too. It definitely aided in setting up such a joyous mood against the somberness of the autumn skies. It was an exhausting ordeal, but it was the good kind of exhaustion, she'd like to think.
"Hilda."
Her heart almost jumped, but she kept herself in control, calmly, carefully, placing down a prized Almyran vase made by one of the artisan's from Claude's lands. She breathed heavily, mentally preparing herself by securing a demure smile on her lips, before turning around slowly. . .
"Dimitri!" she squeaked, and she realized all her efforts were just laid down to waste by herself. That didn't matter, she thought, since she was just so happy to see him again while looking all regal and handsome and happy that she wanted nothing more than to embrace him. . . Only she stopped before she did, realizing that while most have already vacated the building, there were still a few who had been staying to check out pieces of art on display. "I'm so glad you can make it!"
Apart from the heartfelt gratitude she extended in her ending speech where she recognized all the important figures that went out of their way to visit her academy, there really had been no time for them to actually reconnect with such a busy day. That fact however, didn't seem to bother Dimitri at all; if anything he appeared to mirror the excitement that she was trying to conceal.
She ended up taking his hands and squeezing them in a giddy manner, until she felt some piercing glares jabbing at her from the sides. Judging from the blue scarf around her neck, the set of eyes belonged to one of his Kingdom knights, and Hilda wanted to smack herself for forgetting that Dimitri was already officially a king and what she was doing to him in a public place was likely an affronting act in their culture. She immediately let go, only for her hands to be captured again by Dimitri's massive ones. His firm, yet gentle gesture made her heart flutter even more.
"I kept my promise, of course." His thumb hesitantly caressed the knuckles on her hands, and she felt her face growing warmer by the second. . . It felt really nice and sweet and all but. . . they were starting to make a scene and all the unwanted attention from the people surrounding them was just ruining the moment that she wanted to hurl her prized necklaces on their faces so they could mind their own business!
Of course, Hilda had a sense of control in the end, so she ended up inviting him to the terraces where she knew they could have some semblance of privacy, only the Kingdom guard kept following them. Thankfully, with a single raise of Dimitri's hand, the guard understood the message that she need not follow them outside.
"My apologies," he said the moment they were outside the earshot of everyone else. "Perhaps I should've asked Dedue to accompany me here instead."
"Oh, it's fine. Your little lady knight is just doing her job!" She laughed awkwardly, trying to hide the fact how annoyed she actually was with the nosy guard. "I mean, who knows what sort of things I could do to the head of Faerghus, right?"
"Yes. You certainly have done plenty to me. . . or rather, for me."
His words were articulated with such a serious voice that it succeeded in taking away her prior annoyance.
"Dimitri," she began, trying to stop giggling, "Have you forgotten what I said about being too serious?"
"Of course not." The corners of his lips rose, and she felt delighted to see how seemingly effortless it took him to do so. "But as much as I want to try refining my humor, I'm afraid the Kingdom lacks such advisors."
"Haha, good one, Dimitri," she said, though she sensed there was likely some truth in what he had revealed, "By the way, thank you for sending supplies for my academy. You really didn't have to, you know."
"It's no problem. Think of it as my way of repaying you for all the bottles I've broken when I had the pleasure of being taught by you."
She giggled again, recalling those funny moments. "Oh! Before I forget!"
She pulled her sleeve to reveal a bracelet that she kept hidden not out of shame, but to keep it protected and intact for the person it really belonged to. She released it from her wrist and transferred it to Dimitri's. She thought about how adorable he looked watching her do so.
"There! Back to its owner!" she said, as she observed how he began rummaging for something inside his coat. In no time he found what he was looking for and revealed the precious bracelet that she knew he worked hard to do. She waited for him to place it on her wrist like she did with hers, but he simply let it dangle between his fingertips without saying a word. She gave him an odd look before attempting to grab it from his hand, only he swiftly pulled it away upwards before she did. A surprised look appeared on his face, as if his previous action was done by reflex. She made another pathetic attempt to grab it, even jumping in the process, only he moved his arm upwards even more.
"Dimitri?" She forced a smile, her irritation growing again by the second. "What are you doing?"
A rather unusual sheepish smile appeared on his face, and the rare sight of it almost urged her to forgive this apparent poking fun at her height.
"M, my apologies," he finally said, bringing his arm down at a level that she could finally reach, though she no longer made any attempts to get it. Instead she incredulously crossed her arms. It made him seem a little panicked, but his obvious amusement overpowered it. "I am aware that was too unbecoming, perhaps excessively even. I just find it endearing to see you act this way."
"Ha-ha," she said, trying to keep her act and not to focus on the fact that he kinda called her cute in his own Dimitri-way even if he was teasing her the same. "You know I could've totally pounced you to get it, but I wouldn't really wanna be at the receiving end of your guard's weapons!"
"That is simply unthinkable," he replied, as he reached out for her hand. He seemed to be waiting for her permission to take it, and with a sigh she finally gave in, letting him place the bracelet around her wrist. "I would never let anyone touch a single strand of your hair."
His unexpected words struck her so much that it made her heart flutter fondly. It was definitely a challenge to keep up the whole 'angry' act around him.
"Oh, here you are again being too extreme!" She tried to ignore the tingling heat enveloping her cheeks, and her belief that he had likely already reached the peak of his teasing somehow made her relieved that he would not really point out what a huge blushing mess she was.
Instead he simply smiled in response, then looking at the landscape before them. Various autumn leaves occasionally flew with the wind, and it reminded her that it was roughly a year since Dimitri literally barged into her life.
"I'm really happy to see you again, Hilda. And to witness you making it this far to attain your dreams."
A lot had changed since then, she realized, and it was a sort of change that she never really expected to happen. . .
"I could say the same to you, Dimitri," she said, returning the smile, thankful for all those changes that had occurred.
She invited him to eat out at a small restaurant in town. It caused several curious eyes watching over them, which she thought was inevitable; Dimitri had a rather commanding presence even before—what more with the position he presently had. Still, she was rather thankful for the ongoing festival since various important people were all over the place anyway, so perhaps the sight of them together wouldn't raise too many questions. All the attention was the least of her worries too, since she decided to focus on cherishing every moment they had together until it was time for him to go.
Weeks passed. They continued communicating through letters, keeping each other updated with what was happening at their side of the world. Hilda felt delighted every time she learned of Dimitri's efforts in rebuilding connections with different territories, something that the professor supported as the leader overseeing the whole of Fódlan. Meanwhile, Dimitri was also interested to read about her descriptive stories of how she was developing various art techniques with her fellow instructor Ignatz, who had been working with her to come up with a method of applying pigments to her creations. It reached a point when he was surprised to receive a sample of their joint effort in a form of a radiant blue charm which she sent together with her letter.
Looks beautiful, right? I made sure to mix the pigments correctly so it would match that big blue cape you put around your shoulders. Hope I got it right!
He treasured it, of course, and requested a trusted craftsman to add whatever trinket to transform it into a brooch. It easily became an accessory he wore around the palace often.
Since then, Hilda also began to receive various gifts, such as specialty sweets from Faerghus along with some bouquets of flowers. The latter was something she especially appreciated, and at the same time left her wondering where he had gotten them, considering the present season.
The box of sweets were rather easy to hide, but the flowers were something bigger and grandiose, and it only took a matter of time until people in her household started noticing them.
"What's this?" Holst asked her, "Does my sister already have a suitor without me knowing it?"
She made a sound feigning innocence. "Hmm? Maybe you're thinking too much, brother! Can't these flowers be something I use for my work?"
While obviously a lie, she figured adding some truth in it, anyway. Because while she often displayed the flowers in her room, staring at them lovingly from time-to-time, she also plucked some of their petals to preserve them into her accessories later on.
Those weeks turned to moons without them really realizing it, until winter began with the Red Wolf Moon. It left Dimitri busier with the foundation day of Faerghus occurring, but he did not forget to spare a moment for their letters.
In the next moon, would you like to come visit me at the palace? I am aware how the extreme cold brings you displeasure, but I was urged to have a celebration for my birthday. It would bring me great delight to have your presence in such an occasion, he wrote.
Oh, I'd love to, she eagerly replied, I hope you can also show me around the best parts of Fhirdiad too!
She didn't really care if that meant walking around outside in winter time. She was going to meet him again, and it's what really mattered.
As promised, they met again in the Ethereal Moon. Hilda had requested if she could come a day before his birthday, which Dimitri didn't mind—no, it was a suggestion he actually preferred. They learned from their prior meeting that such an occasion would likely divide Dimitri's attention, much like Hilda's during the opening of her academy. A day spent with just the two of them would really do nicely.
Eventually, it then proved to be the best decision, since a snowstorm was brewing the moment she arrived at the gates of Blaiddyd palace. The snow and winds were getting stronger as she stepped out from her carriage. Both were only thankful that she made her arrival at the perfect time, since being on the road in a blizzard was no safe venture.
When Hilda entered the palace for the first time, she was rather overwhelmed with the line of servants greeting her. Her eyes briefly scanned the high intricate ceilings and walls of the palace—there was definitely a different sort of grandness compared to the castles of Almyra and Enbarr. Nevertheless, even if it wasn't her first time to enter such majestic buildings, she was not really any less awe-stricken. Her home estate, which she thought could already be considered big, felt relatively small compared to it. Her thoughts were put to a halt when Dimitri greeted her, who then instructed some of the servants to accompany her to the guest room where she could rest.
"I'm very relieved you made it safely," he said, "The travel must have been tiring, however. Please take your time for a rest."
She smiled. From their territory, Fhirdiad was farther in distance than Garreg Mach, and traveling in the winter didn't help in making things comfortable. She knew she wanted to spend time with him as soon as she could, but physical fatigue would get her nowhere. She gladly accepted his offer, before promising she'd make herself refreshed and full of energy by the time she would see him again later.
A few hours had been enough for her to freshen up, and in no time, she met up with Dimitri again.
"I hope you rested well?"
"I did! Thank you."
She showed him a grin. If she were to be honest, she could have spared a few more hours cooped up in such comfortable mattresses, especially with such a massive bed weather, but she wasn't intending on wasting time in her room when she wanted to spend it more with him.
"How are your preparations for your birthday?" she then asked, as they passed by one of the windows at the hallways. She momentarily snuck a glance at it; the glass was pitch white, and she could hear the howling of the winds outside.
"It has been going well, I suppose," he replied, "Except for the fact that some deliveries might get delayed due to the storm."
"Aww, so if the storm doesn't stop any time, the celebration might have to be cancelled?"
"I foresee it happening. If the snow piles up too much, the roads will get blocked. For the safety of the guests, it might be for the best too."
She nodded. "I see. I understand."
"But to be honest though, I was against having a celebration, but—"
"Wait. Let me guess," she interjected, "Was it Sylvain?"
He chuckled. "Correct. He explained a celebration would be nice for me to take a break, as well as to. . ." He then paused, making her look at him questioningly.
"'To?'"
He suddenly looked shy. He shook his head.
"N-nothing!" he remarked, but she was having none of it.
"Dimitri. . ."
"Alright," he quickly said, giving in, "He said it would also be the perfect chance to invite you here and. . ."
"'And?'"
"He figured the chance of you accepting would be high, considering it's a special occasion."
She thought how cute he looked being embarrassed with such a revelation.
"Well, he is right about that, you know!" she remarked, hoping it would make him feel less awkward, "Besides, the academy is closed for the other half of this moon anyway, so I'm pretty much free until the 30th! Lucky you, huh?"
He nodded with a smile. "Indeed I am."
Since the storm wasn't subsiding yet, they mostly stayed indoors. At first, she was kind of disappointed since she really wanted to visit the shops around the capital, but it was unwise to go out with such weather, anyway. In the end, she didn't mind it since it gave Dimitri the chance to give her a personal tour of his home. At some point they encountered Felix and Dedue, who accompanied them in going through the various parts of the palace. It took longer than she expected with how enormous it was so it was a tiring ordeal; nonetheless, the experience was rather fun the same. Especially the bits when Dimitri was so embarrassed when Felix unashamedly revealed how sending her sweets and flowers had been Ingrid's and Dedue's ideas, respectively. They eventually had dinner until it was time for them to retire to their respective quarters.
The storm had stopped by the time it was midnight, just when she had woken up. Or perhaps it stopped a few hours before? Hilda wasn't really certain. She attempted to sleep again, but ultimately failed. With a sigh, she quickly fixed her hair, donned some gloves and a mantle, before proceeding to the door. She doubted staying would make her fall asleep easily, so perhaps a walk might do her good.
Opening the door quietly, she discovered a servant—likely tasked to guard and attend to her—who was already dozing off on the sides. She tried to walk away even more carefully so as not to stir him awake.
She walked through the dim halls, retracing her steps to one of the palace balconies that had a nice view of the capital during the day—or so Dimitri said. She doubted she could see it at night, but she figured she wanted to check anyway.
The chilly air pricked her skin as she pushed the heavy door going outside, but she chose to ignore it, walking carefully through the floors that had partly been cleared of snow. Maybe the storm had stopped for a while for Dimitri's men to have cleaned them already. She was rather impressed with the efficiency.
She reached the end of the balcony only to discover that as she anticipated, there was not much of a view on such a dark winter day, with only the lights from the palace illuminating some parts of the area. Still, the night sky was clear of clouds, with the moon and stars shining brightly. She figured she should enjoy it before going back to her room again.
It had been relatively quiet, until she heard the door being pushed open.
"You are still awake?"
"Oh, hi!" she said, waving a hand as Dimitri approached, still clad in the outfit he was wearing a while ago. It made her a bit conscious that she didn't bother changing back into her outdoor dress, which, if she thought about it, was a bit strange of her to think, considering it wasn't really the first time he saw her in her night clothes. "And yes. Figured a little walk could help me go back to sleep. And you? Don't tell me you were still working at this hour?"
He scratched the back of his neck looking like a child guilty of stealing some sweets.
"Well, I was just rechecking some documents to make sure everything is set for the month. . . until I saw you through the window from where I was."
"Well, it's a good thing I went here, then!" Hilda said, placing her arms on her waist, "Perhaps if you're my reminder to be productive, I should be your reminder to take a rest."
He made a sound of amusement. "That's. . .not a bad idea."
She laughed, only for her to visibly shiver when the wind rushed briefly. Dimitri shook his head with a chuckle, taking off his cloak and placing it over her shoulders. It was rather heavy—she was basically drowning on it!—but his warmth lingered and it was something she greatly appreciated. . .
"Thank you, Dimitri."
"It's my pleasure. Though I am rather disappointed to see that the person who taught me to take care of myself isn't doing a good job taking care of her own."
She blushed, and just before she could argue that she wasn't really planning on staying long outside, he remarked he was only kidding.
"You know, maybe I did this on purpose, because I just felt you'll come here just for me and keep me warm!" She beamed a smile, only for it to falter as she looked at him again. "But I sure wish you didn't have to do this though, now you don't have your cozy cloak."
He shook his head. "It's fine, I am used to this weather. You need it more than I do."
But of course he would say that, she thought, just as she remembered something and an idea entered her mind. Perhaps, this could be her way of getting back to his prior teasing!
"Nonsense, could you come a bit closer? I'll tell you a secret about another way to keep ourselves warm."
And so he did without qualms, just as she expected. As soon as he leaned his body forward, she took the chance to hold his face and plant a kiss on his lips. She couldn't help but giggle as she pulled back before he could make any sort of response.
"Happy birthday Dimitri!"
As she expected, his cheeks had grown pink. Her face was feeling a little bit warm too, but she brushed it off, trying to still be in control of the situation despite her pulse racing. He, on the other hand, only stood frozen with his mouth open.
"Um, Dimitri?"
Oh no, was that a bit too much?
"Um, okay," she remarked rather hesitantly, then extending her arms in front of her. "I'm ready to be arrested. S-surely it's such a crime to steal a kiss from the king of Faerghus!"
Her words seemed to snap him back to reality as he grasped her by her fingers.
"Okay, then. Let me arrest you myself."
Before she could fully process his words and what in the goddess' name was going on, he pulled an elegant ring from the inside of his coat.
"This has been something I've been wanting to tell you before. I would like to spend the rest of my life with you."
It was her turn to stand frozen, jaw dropped.
"You have inspired me to become the person who I am today, and with that, you will forever have a place in my heart. In my eyes, you are always my queen." He took a deep breath. "Before, in the cabin, you told me to speak out freely whatever was in my mind. Now I ask you, please tell me yours."
Her eyes blinked several times.
This was no joke, her mind concluded. This was no dream either.
"Please say something," he remarked awkwardly, "Of course, I will not pressure you into something you do not want, especially with all the responsibilities that might entail, so if you do not wish to accept, tell me, because all I ever want is your happiness—"
"Dimitri," she interjected, which made him stop talking." Since you told me to speak freely, I will. Queen, huh? I honestly think being one is too much work."
His eyes almost went downcast but she squeezed his hand, continuing to speak.
"I thought the same for building my own academy too, at some point. But because you also believed in me, it had been something I was willing to do, and still continuing to do."
She removed her glove, letting her bare hand intertwine with his.
"Anyway, that wasn't the whole point too. Regardless of what it would entail, what matters the most is the thought of being with you, who inspired me to be the best that I am. So yes, I would like to spend my life with you, too."
A spark appeared from Dimitri's eyes as he heard her words, and without warning he lifted her up causing her to yelp. She quickly recovered as he spun around once, making her laugh.
"Be careful, Dimitri! Aren't the floors slippery?"
He didn't say anything else, instead showing such a nice smile that really suited well with his handsome face.
"By the way, the whole. . . arresting and proposing thing, whose idea was that?"
"It was. . .entirely mine, spur of the moment thing," he admitted, briefly looking away with shyness. "How was it?"
"I give it a 10, mostly for the spontaneity!"
She giggled, gently holding the sides of his face. She leaned herself closer before pressing her lips against his again. He managed to return the act this time, deepening the kiss as seconds passed. Their only witnesses were the bright stars shining above them, whose radiance mirrored the emotions and love they felt for one another.
. . .
. . .
. . .
The next morning, various servants and chambermaids were panicking because His Majesty and his beloved guest were nowhere to be found in their respective quarters. The worries were eventually alleviated by Dedue, who for some reason, stood guarding one of the supposedly empty guest rooms of the palace.