I am on an absolute kick with this idea right now! So much so, that I want to get right into the chapter!

Hope you enjoy!

The Falls

This time, when Alfonse woke up, it was to a decidedly more pleasant vision. No one was sprawled across him, his arms were free, and the sun shined through the tent canvas accompanied by the chirps of birds.

It didn't mean he was free from his companions, not completely. On his left lay Fjorm, her sleeping face relaxed, with strands of mussed hair falling over her eyes. Alfonse didn't know what possessed him to reach over and move the strands, but the disturbance was enough to rouse the sleeping beauty.

While she slowly woke, Alfonse looked to his right and chuckled at Laevatein. She was snoring softly, a string of hair between her lips. Alfonse had to wonder how she was unbothered by this, but he cleared the hair away, the action rousing her too.

"Come now, my friends." Alfonse said as they became more aware. "We need to pack up if we're to make the falls in time. I believe everyone would appreciate the chance to bathe and take in the sights."

Fjorm yawned and sat up, blinking in surprise when she saw Laevatein. "Um… did I miss something?"

"Here… for the same reason as you…" Laevatein mumbled as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes. "Couldn't… get to sleep alone."

Fjorm was clearly confused, but Alfonse gestured to the tent flap. "I don't mean to be rude, but we should set to work. Questions can be answered over breakfast and I'm sure we'd all like to make sure nothing got into our things."

Fjorm almost flew out of the tent at the reminder, shouting about 'racoons' and 'never again'. Laevatein was bewildered, but Alfonse merely laughed. "Her first night with us was camping like this, but she didn't secure her rations. Racoons got into them and made a right mess."

Laevatein frowned, remembering those furry pests. "They're… not a big deal back home. Mostly… we just eat them."

Alfonse blinked, but paused to think. If Muspel was as bad as Laev had described it, then no wonder they'd turn to other sources of meat. "Maybe you can show us how to cook it sometime? Heaven knows Commander Anna's been trying to find a way to get rid of them."

"Don't you have an owl?" Laevatein asked as she stood and stretched, silently pleased when she caught Alfonse stare just a little too long. "Shouldn't that help?"

Alfonse shook his head and started to gather his things. "Who, Feh? No, that ball of fluff either sleeps or eats sweets when not out delivering messages. She finds the oddest things too, no one knows where she gets everything she brings back."

Laevatein hummed before grabbing her roll and pillow, a small smile on her lips. "Well… regardless, thank you for indulging us last night. Your kindness continues to astound me."

Alfonse chuckled and folded his roll. "It's no issue, I did the same with my sister from time to time. Admittedly, I never expected to do it with friends, but it's as I said last night."

His smile grew and Laevatein felt her heart pause. "I'll do what I can to help."

Laevatein gulped and her heart started beating again. "Again… thank you. I'll leave you to it."

Alfonse nodded and Laevatein left, the prince swiftly packing his things. He'd camped more than either of the princesses, no matter Laevatein's military background, so he had everything ready to go before the others had taken down their tents.

So, Alfonse took over as chef once more, starting a new fire with simple dough going into a pan. After that, he took some jerky, dried fruit, and a few edible plants he recognized and prepared them once the dough was fried.

The girls took their seats, finishing their packing the moment their breakfast was done. Conversation mostly centered around what the next leg of the trip would entail, but laughter flowed when Fjorm was asked about her first encounter with racoons.

She decided to ham it up. "So, there I was, fresh out of the bath and deep in my thoughts. I'd only just escaped to the border and was freezing when I'd been rescued by the Order. It never occurred to me that I'd entered a new land, being unconscious when we went through the portal and all."

Laevatein nodded along, recalling her own experience with the portals. Alfonse was already chuckling, knowing what came next.

Fjorm threw out her hands. "Then there's this huge shadow that leaps out at me, teeth bared in challenge! I was unprepared and let out my most appropriate battle cry, but the beast was undeterred! It lunged forth like lightning and stole the apple I was munching on, hissing with glee!"

Laevatein smirked as Fjorm made a fool of herself. "I assume you gave chase?"

"Of course!" Fjorm scoffed, theatrical haughtiness in place. "How dare the thing take my apple! But I'd gone not five paces when I heard a great scuffle, like children fleeing before a strict matron. I turned and there were dozens of the foul creatures, each making off with the supplies I'd so carefully guarded!"

Alfonse chose then to interject. "You mean thrown all over your tent?"

"Hush you," Fjorm scolded, playfully slapping his shoulder. "You had your laugh. Anyway, I called for help to catch the thieves, but they were clearly experienced. Try to catch one and three got away. I was only able to retrieve a pack of flour before the rest were gone. I was more than miffed, as you might imagine."

Laevatein was giggling, a look to Alfonse getting the truth. "She actually screamed bloody murder and sent the camp into a panic. We all had a laugh afterwards and got her new things."

Fjorm rolled her eyes and waved at him. "Do you see what I have to deal with? No one can tell stories around him, he always gives the truth."

"How do you think I keep Sharena from getting a big head?" Alfonse cracked, sending the group into a fit of giggles. Once they recovered and cleaned the remnants of their meal, it was time to go.

"If I may ask," Laevatein said as they set off, "what were some of those songs we heard at the festival?"

Fjorm hummed as she thought on the tunes she'd learned. "Most of them are folk songs, pretty easy to remember. Why, want to learn them to pass the time?"

"I think that's a great idea." Alfonse said. "The more we learn upon these travels, the more enjoyable they become. Would you like to learn, Laevatein? I'm sure I could teach something too, or you could offer if there's something you'd like to share."

Laevatein smiled and shook her head. "I've nothing to share, but I would like to learn if Fjorm is willing. I was… enraptured by your performance… almost fell asleep in Alfonse's arms."

Fjorm had a spark of jealousy dance across her eyes, but it was gone just as quick. "Then we'll start right away. Alfonse, can you play and walk at the same time? I'll need proper scales so she can learn how her voice resonates."

Alfonse worked his jaw, brow creased in thought. "I… don't know. A violin needs two hands, but I can't lead my horse without one of them. Any ideas?"

They thought on the issue for a moment before Alfonse smacked his forehead. "Wait a minute, what are we doing? I can just tie my horse to one of yours, that'll get me free and us to the falls much faster."

The girls were equally sheepish, everyone wondering how they hadn't thought up that idea. It solved the problem of Alfonse not having enough hands, but now they had to decide if he would take the reins of he remaining horses and have someone ride with him or vice versa.

That problem lasted barely a moment before Fjorm solved it. "He'll need to ride with me. I'll be teaching you the scales, so he'll need his hands free, and you need to hear how you harmonize with us. Sound good, Laev?"

"Don't I get a say in this?" Alfonse asked with a laugh as Laevatein nodded. "But she's right, this is for the best. Let me get saddled and we'll start."

Alfonse grabbed his instrument and pulled himself into Fjorm's saddle, only to jump a bit as he felt a pinch on his rear. "Did I sit on something?"

As he looked back to find the offending spike, Fjorm gave Laevatein a smug grin while holding her hand up in a pinching motion. Laevatein silently vowed to one up the sneaky woman when Alfonse gave up the search. "Well, whatever it was, doesn't matter. Ready to begin?"

Laevatein chuckled and they began. Fjorm would sing a note while Alfonse tuned his violin to it, then Laevatein would take a shot at the note. She was off-key, as were all beginners, but she showed once again she had a talent for the arts that was lost in her military upbringing.

If you asked Alfonse how to describe the voices of his friends, he'd place them in two camps. Fjorm was a light, smooth voice that drifted through the air like a cool breeze, but roused the spirit by the power she could put in it. Laevatein had a richer, slightly deeper voice that sank into the senses and warmed the mind.

It was a fun time singing and playing along the road, not another living soul in sight. Hours were passed in their song, laughter, and talk, each appearing as ordinary as anyone. None would think they'd stood on opposite sides of battle bare weeks prior, but such was the course of life.

By midday, the rush of water met their ears and Alfonse took a deep breath of moist air. "We've nearly arrived. Take a right at the next hill and we'll see the falls."

Laevatein grinned and sped forward, the others giving chase. Once they were atop the hill, Fjorm beheld the falls while Laevatein whistled in awe. "Wow…"

As Alfonse had said, the falls were made up of three rivers converging into one, but each river split into a dozen falls of varying heights that filled the air with mist and rainbows. Birds flitted about the banks while thick tree cover and brush filled the cliffs and ground around the massive lagoon the falls formed before the water flowed out as the Ptolemy.

"The fall we want to use is that way." Alfonse said, pointing to a crevice in the rightmost cliff-face. "I wish we'd thought to pack swimsuits, it's quite fun to swim in the lagoon. Good fishing where it flows into the Ptolemy too."

Laevatein gave Fjorm a knowing grin, the other princess flushing red. "I think we'll be just fine, Alfonse. Oh, off-topic, but I'm curious."

"Do you prefer chocolate or vanilla?"

Fjorm choked on a squeal, her glare enough to freeze hellfire. Alfonse, ignorant of the context, gave his best answer. "I quite enjoy both, actually. They're both comforting and I won't turn down a share of those candies if offered. I may not look it, but I have quite the sweet-tooth when the mood strikes me."

Poor Fjorm could've passed for an apple while Laevatein felt her cheeks darken. Who knew the prince was so… broad minded?

Alfonse of course didn't think it had anything to do with less than pure thoughts. Instead, he dismounted and started for the falls. "Follow me, but be careful. The path can be uneven in spots and the last thing we need is to have someone fall and send all our things into the river."

He didn't get any verbal acknowledgment, but he could hear the horses following behind. Knowing they were there, he began to pick his way down the path, finding the easiest routes down the hill and past the slick rocks of the lagoon until they were in the crevice.

"Tight squeeze." Fjorm noted as they moved slowly through the corridor. "We're almost scraping both sides."

Alfonse nodded as he spotted the end. "It's why only locals know about it. Regular travelers wouldn't even glance at this crevice, let alone try and traverse it."

"Well, at least we're not losing supplies." Laevatein sighed.

Alfonse didn't answer. He'd exited the corridor and was taking in the sights. Once the girls were out as well, they got their first look at this 'hidden gem' as Alfonse called it.

It was an odd formation where a single waterfall emptied into what looked like a smooth bowl, the tributary it formed coiling around the ball and off to the side, likely to rejoin the Ptolemy. Thick vegetation and a cornucopia of fruits and flowers surrounded the water, forming a picturesque grotto where the walls of the bowl turned the mist into a rainbow all its own.

"Wow…" Fjorm breathed, awed once again. "This… this is amazing. Tell me, Alfonse, how did you learn about this?"

Alfonse scratched his head and laughed. "I heard about it from Commander Anna, believe or not. I got to visit a couple years ago with my family, and I was so impressed I memorized how to get here. Do you like it?"

"I love it!" Fjorm gushed, cantering over to a tree and picking a ripe orange from its branches. "I mean look at this bounty! And all this color as well! Why, I never knew such vibrancy could exist!"

Alfonse was tickled by Fjorm's glee, but he looked to Laevatein next. "And you? What do you think of this place?"

Laevatein was… stunned. She'd heard tales of Muspel before it was engulfed in never-ending flame, when only a single volcano gave the land its name. It was a time described as golden, where flowers and fruits of every color filled the earth and people were happy. Friends and family living good lives…

This… this was like looking into a fairytale. One she'd long stopped believing in.

"Laev, come here!" Fjorm called, snapping Laevatein from her reverie. "There's cherry trees and peach trees! I've only seen these in the castle gardens, what luck!"

Laevatein blinked a few times before dismounting and handing her reins to Alfonse. "It's… like a fairytale. I almost don't believe anyone would ever use such a place just to bathe."

Alfonse scratched his head, cheeks pink with embarrassment. "Well… there's another reason people use this place. It's a popular place to propose, but only at night when the moon's full. Some superstition or something, but that's the other reason."

Laevatein looked very amused, but she dropped the subject. "Well, let's get these beasts tied and fed. Then I want to see where this bathing happens."

Alfonse agreed and, after retrieving a giddy Fjorm who'd already collected lots of fruit, they got the horses tied and resting. Once done, Alfonse instructed them to grab towels and whatever they used to bathe and follow him.

He was more than a little amused that the girls had such varying brush sizes, with Laevatein having a much longer brush compared to Fjorm's. They all brought various soaps, towels, and other bathing necessities as well, enough to fill their arms.

The walk to the bowl was just as uneven as the crevice they'd entered, but it was much shorter and led to the center of the bowl where the waterfall fell over a sharp rise of smooth rock that split the stream into two distinct pools that in turn merged outside the bowl to form the tributary.

When they ventured into the bowl, Fjorm noted how high the rock wall was. "You know, this place looked… smaller when we first arrived."

"It tends to." Alfonse laughed, having to raise his voice over the roar of the water. "Remember, we entered on level with the fall, so the bowl didn't look that big. Now that we're here, you see each pool can hold almost ten people, but we're in luck with no one here. Do you prefer a pool?"

"Whichever one you're in," Fjorm muttered, the words lost to the falls.

Laevatein heard it though, which made her burst into giggles. She calmed down quickly when Alfonse looked at her, but a knowing smile was plastered on her face. "We'll take the left pool, Alfonse. Feel free to call over the wall if you want to chat."

She made for the pool but brushed up next to him, a tease in her voice. "We'll come join you too… if you want."

Alfonse damn near leapt into the pool he'd been given, Laevatein's laughter filling the air. Fjorm didn't hear the tease, but she looked away as she passed Alfonse. "I uh… would love to hear more about this place. I think I have a story to tell about something like this, if uh… you want to hear it."

Alfonse gulped and nodded. "That would be… nice. Um, let's go ahead and wash up, I want to make something nice out of all this fruit."

Fjorm grinned at him and hurried after Laevatein, who was already getting an area set up. Alfonse didn't overstay his welcome and disappeared behind the wall, his preparations soon done. A quick glance around showed no animals considering joining him, so he stripped and slid into the sun-warmed water with a sigh of relief.

He never noticed the two pairs of eyes peeking over the edge of the rock wall, red and blue taking in the sight before them with varying reactions.

"He does train," Laevatein almost purred. "I'd like to get a feel for those shoulders, they look nice and solid, same for that back. Got a cute little butt too, I'm jealous you got to cop a feel."

Fjorm was almost steaming, her face was so red. While she was nearly drooling at the sight of the wet Alfonse before her, an ingrained sense of propriety was doing its damndest to make her heart explode out of her chest.

…Even if he was sculpted… and had a cute butt…

Oh damn it, she was turning into Gunnthra!

A splash made them duck down, but Alfonse was just stretching under the fall. And… showing off everything in the front…

…At least his waist was still below water.

Laevatein felt something wet trail down her lip and she dabbed at it to find she had a nosebleed. Add on the flush in her cheeks and the heat that suffused her skin, she needed to duck down, or this would end poorly.

Fjorm was letting out strangled squeals at the sight, sounding like a tortured monkey. She was even losing control of her innate powers like Laevatein, the steam her fiery counterpart created condensing and freezing on her skin.

Alfonse apparently heard one of the monkey growls and, in a dazzling display of speed and accuracy, sent two small rocks flying straight into the peepers' foreheads. He didn't see what he'd hit, but the noises stopped, so he was relieved. "Sorry if any rocks landed on you girls! One of those thieving capuchins showed up but I took care of it."

He received calls of thanks and went back to his bath.

Laevatein and Fjorm, meanwhile, were nursing their sore heads. They hadn't even disrobed yet, so strong was their desire to see Alfonse in the buff. Considering they were still blushing and more than a little worked up, the pain was worth it.

Laevatein was the first to recover, disrobe, and dive into the pool, steam rising from her body as she cooled off. Fjorm was swift to follow, letting the water wash away her thoughts and uncomfortable urges.

The pair swam around on their own for a few minutes as they got their heads on straight, knowing that they were safe from Alfonse returning the favor. It was likely bad that they were taking advantage of his kindness, but they'd gotten a show for it at least…

Well… that just wasn't fair was it?

Laevatein came up for air and swam to the shore, pulling herself onto the bank she'd placed her towel. With most of her body soaked, she grabbed her soap and a small towel with scouring powder. Then she cleaned herself thoroughly as Fjorm came up next to her and began to do the same.

"So," Alfonse called over the wall. "What was that story you had Fjorm?"

Fjorm jumped, but calmed down and leaned back, gazing at the waterfall. "Well… there's a legend in Nifl about a cave that holds a place of infinite food and drink, free from the cold. It's said that spirits would lead the worthy to this cave on their quests and allow them to rest, only to find themselves back amongst the snow the moment they awoke."

She chuckled and leaned forward to hug her leg. "I just thought this place resembled how the legend described the cave. Truly, it's a beautiful place, and I can already feel my skin growing softer and stronger."

Laevatein glanced over and poked Fjorm's arm. Ignoring her startled yelp, Laevatein then pinched her own arm. "You know… you're right. I never really cared all that much previously, but it appears to be working. Also, Fjorm, you're cold to the touch, you know that?"

Fjorm shrugged and poked Laevatein. "And you're hot to the touch, so I guess something came from our kingdoms. What, did you think I'd freeze you if you touched me?"

Laevatein shrugged and started brushing her hair. "Not really… just wondering if you knew. Um… do you want to embarrass Alfonse now? We uh… kind of owe it to him now, but at least we'll get a laugh."

Fjorm glared at her. "It was your idea to do that in the first place, and I'm ashamed I followed. But… I can stand the embarrassment so long as he doesn't see too much."

Laevatein chuckled and stood, almost taunting Fjorm with her smooth chocolate skin. "Well, as I said yesterday, we'll see if he likes chocolate or vanilla. There won't be a cop out answer this time."

Fjorm stood and stepped forward, almost nose to nose with Laevatein. She smirked as she realized that she had superior assets in one place at least. "Then we'll do it, but at least I know I'll win if he's more for the cups and thighs then the ass."

What Gunnthra would pay to hear that said again.

"Is the Ice Princess telling me I have the better butt?" Laevatein teased back. "Besides, we're both attractive, we know it. All that training just made it more so. I'm more interested in seeing how far his jaw drops personally, knowing his preference would just be a bonus."

Fjorm growled, but it was too hammy to be serious. "I don't know what it is about you that makes me willing to act like this, but…"

She smiled and laughed heartily. "I admit, it's refreshing."

Laevatein started to laugh too and they had to hold each other up as their mirth filled the air. Once they were through, Laevatein guided Fjorm back to their towels and strategically placed the extra cloth for maximum sex appeal.

She knew that at least, just never expected to use it for pranking and seduction at the same time.

Once she was sure they were in the perfect risqué positions, Laevatein nodded to Fjorm. Fjorm in turn let out an impressive scream. "Get back here you thieves, how dare you make off with our things!"

Judging by the splash that followed, Alfonse almost leapt out of the pool. He then proceeded to vault over the rock wall, which meant he ran up the thing in bare feet, and looked around wildly. "Where'd they go, that capuchin must've gotten his friends!"

His mind caught up a moment later, first noticing that the girls' items were right where they belonged. Then he found the girl's themselves, Fjorm with a cloth positioned to cover the important areas while showing off her stomach, thighs, and size if not shape of her bust. Laevatein was similar, but her entire back was being showcased in addition to her thighs and butt.

Alfonse couldn't help but stare for a moment before he turned on his heel, ran back up the wall, and dove straight into the pool, the girls laughing heartily at the explosion of red they'd seen bloom across his face.

"Sorry, Alfonse!" Fjorm called over to him. "We couldn't pass up the opportunity! We'll make it up to you somehow!"

No response came over the wall, which made Fjorm a little nervous. "Um… you don't think he's too upset, do you?"

"I don't think so," Laevatein said as she tossed aside the cloth and walked into the pool again. "But I want one more swim before I get dressed. We'll worry about it after we're done."

She looked back and smirked. "Besides, it looks like he does like chocolate and vanilla. We'll have to figure out something else to win him over, because we're at a tie with our bodies."

Fjorm hid her face in her hands, almost crying again as embarrassment set in. She really needed to stop letting Laev drag her into these hairbrained schemes, no matter that it was just Alfonse.

If anything, that just made it worse.

Regardless, they finished bathing and went back to the horses. A clearing in the trees marked a campsite, likely made by the locals that came to the grotto, but the girls didn't see Alfonse. Even after they'd set up a small fire and gathered a selection of fresh fruit, the prince was nowhere to be seen.

Worried, they searched the area until they found him sitting atop a ridge overlooking the grotto. Alfonse was silent as he stared off into the sky, apparently not noticing the sun slowly descending, and he didn't react when Fjorm put a hand on his shoulder. "Alfonse, are you ok?"

Alfonse gestured to the ground next to him, the girls taking a spot on each side. Alfonse remained silent for a time before he sighed. "Fjorm, have you ever wondered why, with all the mischief the Order gets up to, something like today hasn't happened?"

Fjorm blinked, not ready to hear that. "Um… no? I just assumed no one found that humorous."

Alfonse shook his head, suspecting as much. "In truth, it's because we had an incident before you joined that rendered the very idea taboo. As you know, we have a wide variety of personalities and that includes those that take action where otherwise thought is preferred."

Fjorm had to agree with that. There were those in the Order that thought with their swords first.

"The thing is, about a month before you joined, Princess Camilla wanted to embarrass her brothers." Alfonse continued. "She wanted to do something grander than her usual teases, so she convinced Nowi and Fae to switch the bathing times after some of the women had gone in. Even paid Commander Anna to keep quiet."

Fjorm and Laevatein did not like the sound of this.

"Thing is, the women that had gone in were the likes of Minerva, Sully, Serra, and so on. The ones that are prone to jumping to conclusions. So, when some of the guys saw that the baths were open earlier than usual, they went in."

Fjorm started fidgeting and Laevatein sighed. This wasn't going to end well.

"I witnessed it as I was with that initial group. At first, it was just a lot of yelling, then objects started getting thrown. It didn't matter what it was, we got pelted with it, but I fell unconscious after taking a stool to my head. According to Corrin, the women proceeded to get their weapons and chase the unfortunate men throughout the castle threatening grievous harm if caught."

Alfonse leaned forward and sighed again. "They went through with it too. Leo and Gaius were so bruised they couldn't sit up and Ike needed a cane for a week. Those were the worst, but everyone that went in was injured in some way, and it set off a witch hunt for anyone that would dare 'trick' the women."

The roll of his eyes said it all. "The actual tricksters found it hilarious at first, but then accusations against people like Robin and Marth were getting taken seriously. Add on the so-called convicts getting used as training dummies and Fae couldn't confess fast enough. Problem was, no one took her seriously, believing she just wanted all the yelling to stop, and even Nowi adding her confession didn't help."

Alfonse pinched his nose. "Anna had enough when Frederick was brought into it, and Camilla couldn't stand it further when accusations turned to outright slander. The problem with the stubborn determination of the Order is we get an idea in our heads and refuse to let it go, even when the wiser heads on both sides tried to stop the idiocy. The truth was finally realized after that, but when the ones that had jumped to the conclusions offered no apologies, they were shunned, and no one spoke to them. Xander screamed at Camilla with more anger than I've ever seen and my father personally revoked Anna's salary for an entire year for letting such a debacle occur. Fae and Nowi were banned from all fun activities and made to do every chore, more being added if they complained."

Alfonse looked back to the sky as he finished the story. "From then on, the men and women got to use the baths in the morning and at night only, women in the morning, men at night. That's how it's been since, and it only took a week of being shut out from the Order for the stubborn women to realize they'd been… complete bitches to put it bluntly. You've never seen people that proud grovel for forgiveness, but it took them having a turn as training dummies to be forgiven."

Fjorm and Laevatein were quiet, the fire princess the first to speak. "We're… sorry, about that. I didn't… think something like that had happened."

"Same," Fjorm muttered. "We just wanted to do something fun, embarrass you a bit. I didn't think a similar event had led to… that."

Alfonse leaned back on his hands and shrugged. "Well, so long as you're sorry, I can live with it. Also, considering I didn't find any trace of our local monkey friends, I think the headaches I gave you both are punishment enough. Honestly, I just came here to think."

The girls darkened in embarrassment, knowing they were caught. Then Laevatein picked up on something. "Wait… then why did you do that stretch if you were just expecting monkeys?"

Alfonse shrugged with a small grin. "I felt eyes on me, all curious, so I thought to show something so long as I stayed half in the water. Did you like what you saw?"

Fjorm steamed next to him, a nod the only way to convey what she wanted to say. Laevatein was far… smoother. "Quite, Prince Alfonse. The results of your training and exploits in battle speak for themselves."

She gestured to Fjorm and herself. "And us? Did you like what you saw too?"

Alfonse's cheeks flushed, but he nodded. "I mean, what sane person wouldn't? I don't know if I've said this before, but you're both lovely. Beautiful in fact. I just, uh… don't feel seeing either of you in such a state is respectful."

The girls silently wondered how no one had already tried to claim the prince as theirs. He was handsome, sculpted by dedicated training, talented in the arts, and a kind soul that would do anything for those close to him.

Fjorm took the next step and leaned in to peck his cheek. When Alfonse looked to her in shock, Fjorm giggled, pink still dusting her cheeks. "That's very kind of you after we pulled that stunt. I think that kindness deserves something."

"I agree," Laevatein said as she pecked his other cheek. "In fact, why not let us try and make lunch today? Think of it as our apology, and I think I'm ready to try that song Fjorm sang at the festival, the one she did with the other woman."

Alfonse didn't know who to look at, so he gave up. "Alright… if you're sure. I look forward to seeing what you put together, and I'll play the tune as we ride. Sound good?"

The girls nodded and they left the ridge, chatter filling the air once again. Unfortunately, when they returned, they watched as a monkey made off with the last of the fruit they'd gathered.

"You know… I thought you were joking about the monkeys."

Alfonse shook his head at Laevatein's question, Fjorm slumping in defeat. "No, they're quite a problem. Come on, let's get more fruit."

They set off once more into the trees, an hour passing as they gathered another bounty. Once together again, Fjorm set to chopping the fruits while Laevatein restarted the fire. After another ten minutes of preparations, they began to cook several cakes in the pan while several of the chopped fruits were sprinkled with sugar and wrapped.

The fruit was left to roast over the flame while the cakes cooked, Laevatein watching them carefully before pulling them from the fire. The fruit was soon done, and the wraps were removed to reveal the soft flesh of the fruit boiled in their own juices. A little more sugar was added to the soft fruit before it was mashed into chutney and rolled into the cakes and served.

They partook merrily, the sweet fruit and sugar a delight to eat after the day's activities. Jokes and friendly ribbing were had as well, each memorizing the scenery as best they could before returning to the road.

Each princess silently hoped they'd return one day for a more… private stay.

Regardless, they were back on the road in short order and Alfonse had his violin ready to go. "I believe I know the song you've chosen, so I'll do my best to keep up. Whenever you're ready."

Laevatein and Fjorm did a few warm-ups before they began the song, the lyrics drifting through the air mournfully.

Siúil, siúil, siúil a rúin

Siúil go sochair agus siúil go ciúin

Siúil go doras agus éalaigh liom

Fjorm took the first solo, eyes going to the horizon as she pictured home.

I wish I were on yonder hill

'Tis there I'd sit and cry my fill

Until every tear would turn a mill

Is go dté tú mo mhúirnín slán

Laevatein returned as they sang the chorus, each lost in an old memory that leant its grief to their voices.

Siúil, siúil, siúil a rúin

Siúil go sochair agus siúil go ciúin

Siúil go doras agus éalaigh liom

Fjorm almost sighed her part, leaning back into Alfonse to reassure herself he was there.

Is go dté tú mo mhúirnín slán

Laevatein took the next part, leveraging her slightly deeper voice to add warmth into the somber song.

I'll sell my rod, I'll sell my reel

I'll sell my only spinning wheel

To buy my love a sword of steel

Is go dté tú mo mhúirnín slán

Again they came together, Alfonse deciding to lend his own quiet voice to the duet in addition to the harmony of his violin.

Siúil, siúil, siúil a rúin

Siúil go sochair agus siúil go ciúin

Siúil go doras agus éalaigh liom

Laevatein glanced over at Alfonse and sighed, ruing that she did not have him on her horse.

Is go dté tú mo mhúirnín slán

Alfonse played his solo with all the respect due a somber song, but he was curious who would take the last part in this. It was, after all, traditionally done as a trio.

He was answered when Fjorm nodded to Laevatein, a lighter tone filling the air this time.

I wish, I wish, I wish in vain

I wish I had my heart again

And if anything could not complain

She paused and took a breath, whatever she was recalling stalling her voice. Then, with an encouraging nod from her friends, she continued.

Is go dté tú mo mhúirnín slán

The chorus returned, all lending their spirit and tones to the last part of the song.

Siúil, siúil, siúil a rúin

Siúil go sochair agus siúil go ciúin

Siúil go doras agus éalaigh liom

A pause, all too brief, filled the air. Then, the girls laid the song to rest.

Is go dté tú mo mhúirnín… slán (1)

The air was still and quiet for a moment before Laevatein began to cry, the party coming to an immediate halt.

Alfonse dismounted and ran to her side, beyond worried to see such a break in her demeanor. "Laev, talk to me, what is it?"

Laevatein can't stop the tears, for she knows not where they come from. She didn't even know it was possible to cry, for tears had long dried in the heat of her country and the life she had led.

So… why now? What had brought this surge of heartache?

"Let's call it a day." Fjorm said as she joined Alfonse in trying to comfort their weeping friend. "We've made enough progress, even with our detour. I think it best we make camp and let Laev calm down."

Alfonse agreed and they found a place to rest near the road, Laevatein doing her best to help despite her swirling emotions. Alfonse and Fjorm though were adamant she rest and sort through this upwelling of grief, at least until they were ready for the night.

Then the camp was silent for a time, the sun half-way below the horizon when Laevatein finally gave voice to her thoughts. "That song… I didn't think much of it when I heard it, but as I sang… I remembered my mother, and my family when I was small."

Laevatein looked to the ground, hair hiding her face. "My home was… so different back then. Father was more interested in botany and architecture than war and conquest. My sister was learning to be a lady and heir to the realm and my mother… she sang and cared for all of us like a gentle flame."

Laevatein heaved a deep sigh. "She was frail though… always frail. Sick in bed more often than not, she'd still attempt to play with me whenever I visited after lessons. Father tried his hardest to see her healthy, ever more exotic brews and poultices made in his apothecary's office. Then, she took ill with the fever that would be her undoing…"

She wiped her eyes, silently thankful when Alfonse and Fjorm took a seat next to her. "She begged Father to be kind to us, to raise us as examples that our culture of martial strength was not the only way. Yet, in the grief that followed her death, Father lost his way and discovered the rage that slept in his blood."

She tried to hide the tears that fell at her next confession, even as the weight on her mind eased with each word. "Sister tried to reason with him, but… we swiftly learned that his word was law. Any disobedience, no matter how slight, was punished severely. I forgot my mother in those years, forgot the warmth with which she filled that place. I'm… I'm ashamed to have forgotten the one I so aspired to be…"

Alfonse and Fjorm embraced her, that same warmth Laevatein so missed making her tears pour forth as rivers. "I… I have been a weapon to a lost soul… but I still love my sister and the father I once had… is that wrong of me? To still care for those that have committed such crimes? Is it wrong for me to feel any remorse now that I realize how I have betrayed my mother?"

"Not in the least." Alfonse whispered as he stroked her back. "We all have regrets, it just depends how we deal with them. I have more than a few myself, but I work to rectify them as best I can."

Fjorm stroked Laevatein's hair, heart going out to this girl she'd once called an enemy. "You have done nothing worse than I have, Laev. I wish retribution upon the monster that slew my mother, but that is not your father. Hold onto that image, the one where your family is happy. I fight for something much like that, and I know that you've been searching for the same."

"No, I wasn't." Laevatein hiccupped. "I was too afraid, too numb to the harsh world I'd seen since that day. I didn't care that Loki showed up and started fanning Father's fanatic flames into egomania, didn't care when we started invading lands that had done nothing to us and burning everything in our path. I… I didn't even care that my sister would stare at me so sadly… heartbroken…"

Laevatein sobbed, but she felt… free. Confessing such feelings, long buried and forgotten, was an act of liberation and rebellion she never thought she'd be capable of without her mother. It was… amazing.

"Take all the time you need," Alfonse whispered. "We have many days ahead of us where you can process this and come to your own conclusions. If you need help, feel free to ask either of us, we'll do all we can."

Fjorm leaned down to look Laevatein in the eye, a gentle smile on her lips. "As he says, give the word, and all we know will be there to help."

Laevatein swallowed thickly and looked up, voice shaky. "…Please… teach me…"

"Teach me how to live… so that I may rebuild what I lost…"

"Please…stay with me…"

And they did. Even as Laevatein wept herself to sleep, Alfonse and Fjorm remained beside her, offering all the comfort and understanding they could. Though, when it was clear they'd have to repeat the previous night's sleeping arrangements, Alfonse couldn't help a joke.

"Why'd we even pack three tents in the first place?"

Fjorm chuckled as they lay to sleep, Laevatein snuggling close to Alfonse while Fjorm took his other side. "I don't think any of us could have dreamed this would happen. Two weeks, at most, and you've somehow turned a stoic commander into one seeking redemption. Truly, your kindness is a power all its own."

Alfonse chuckled and stroked Laevatein's ear, gaze tender.

"Did… you mean what you said, at the grotto?" Fjorm asked after a comfortable silence. "When you said we're… beautiful?"

Alfonse blinked and looked to her, rendered silent by the hope shining in her eyes. After a moment to collect his thoughts, Alfonse nodded. "I meant every word. You may not see it, Fjorm, but in my opinion, you outshine everyone I've met. Only Laevatein matches how beautiful you are, and that's not just my tired mind speaking."

Fjorm's smile held an emotion he could not describe, even as her cheeks flushed red. "Oh, Alfonse… there are days I wonder if you realize the impact your words have."

She leaned in close and nuzzled his neck, her cool skin combining with Laevatein's warmth to make Alfonse drowsy. "I said kindness deserves a reward… and you've shown enough today to get another one."

Alfonse barely felt the kiss she pressed to his cheek, already drifting off. "You… don't have to do that…"

Fjorm giggled, not speaking until she was sure he was asleep. "Alfonse… I wish to give you so much more. Not just these little pecks and compliments…"

"I would give you all of me."

Fjorm sighed and returned to nuzzling his neck, content for tonight.

All ignorant to the pleased owl that departed soon after, her mission complete. Now it was time to report to Gunnthra and see where to go from here.

They had to choose some time to break the news after all.

Ch. End

That's all she wrote folks! For those of you curious of the song at (1), it's called 'Siúil A Rún', an Irish folk song. This version can be found in the 'Destiny' album of the artist group 'Celtic Woman'. Also, for anyone who's wondering at the OOC nature of this fic, FE:Heroes gives little in the way of overall world-building and backstory, so I'm making up things as I go in regards to pasts and legends. I also placed Nifl, Askr, and Muspel on the same planet, just different continents, which is solved by the whole portal creation powers.

That and we're here for fluff and laughs, cohesive background narrative isn't as important.

Regardless, review time!

Sothe17: If anything, I'm the one who feels honored! I do hope you like this chapter, and feel free to point out anything outstanding you liked, I always love to discuss!

G: I don't do OT3s most of the time either, but I simply cannot choose. Thanks for the compliment too! As for my personal Summoner/Kiran ships, I go with either Gunnthra or Sharena, though I'm not quite sure why. Maybe I just prefer the gentle/peppy attitudes they have? Who knows.

I will see you all next time, wish me luck on my summer final!