Well, that last chapter was something to see. In the time we've been gone, I've drawn Laegjarn, but have yet to draw Laevatein herself. Wish me luck on that!

(I'm ignoring most of the dialogue from the last story chapter, this story runs off of my headcanon anyway.)

Now then, on with the show!

Plays and Travels

For the first time on the trip, Laevatein woke up before anyone else.

Maybe it was because she took the side facing the window, or maybe it was something else, but it was across her eyes the sun's rays fell. Laevatein frowned as the light banished the dream she was having, her eyes opening to gaze blearily at the lump in front of her.

Oh… Fjorm…

She blinked a few times before noticing that her arms were wrapped around something. Her bleary vision followed the outlines of her arms to the lump, and she felt confused.

Was… Fjorm that giant snack… I was snuggling?

That was embarrassing. She never really dreamed of snacks before, but a bar made of something sweet had been wrapped in her arms throughout the dream. It was a good thing she woke up first, Fjorm wouldn't be able to speak with her normally the rest of the day otherwise.

I wonder what Alfonse thought of my… idiotic seduction last night? I… kind of hope that it'll work out like the first part of my dream.

Laevatein blinked a few times before noticing that the lump she thought was Fjorm had what looked like a hedge of dark-blue strands poking out of the top of the blanket. Unless a petty curse had occurred overnight, Laevatein knew that Fjorm was blonde.

That meant one of two things. Either those were tassels from the blanket all bunched up, or the first part of her dream wasn't a dream at all.

Deciding to test the idea, Laevatein freed one of her hands from the lump. She then carefully pulled the fabric away until she could see the identity of her erstwhile bedmate.

The back of Alfonse's head met her eyes and Laevatein felt herself gape.

By heaven… that wasn't a dream…

Did… did that mean she was… dating Alfonse… and Fjorm?

Laevatein shook her head, axing that thought. She was friends with Fjorm, and knew she was beautiful, but Laevatein was in no way attracted to her fellow lady. Why would she be when there was Alfonse to stare at all day?

Regardless, if her dream was reality, they could puzzle out how to work within this odd dynamic later. For now, Laevatein let a sneaky grin cross her face.

So cute… and so wide open…

Laevatein took her hand and started to stroke Alfonse's hair, giggling silently as she made it into more of a mess. He had pretty hair, dark like the night before lightening into blonde at the tips, almost like the promise of sunrise. Soft too, which made her wonder if he used anything to keep it that way.

If not, then life seemed to have given him the lottery when it came to his appearance. Or, the parts that she cared about at that moment anyway.

Laevatein contented herself with running her hand through his hair for several moments before squirming closer to him. She smiled at the short distance that separated them, all too glad to close the gap and have her fill.

Diving in, Laevatein pressed her lips to his, the action not disturbing Alfonse's rest. Smiling into the kiss, Laevatein started to run her hand through his hair again while kissing him softly. A brief pull away, another kiss, and repeat.

Eventually, she started whispering to him after she'd had enough. "Alfonse… how will we do this now, I wonder? We've got a rhythm going, I suppose, but… I have no idea how a courting is supposed to work, let alone with two maidens."

Laevatein leaned into the crook of his shoulder, gazing at his sleeping face with a tenderness she'd never known. "But, no matter what… I still love you, my sweet prince. I can at least know that…"

She leaned in and almost purred as she kissed Alfonse one more time before her arms wrapped around him again and she dozed off. Not a moment later, Fjorm woke up, a lazy yawn filling the quiet air.

"Ah, morning." Fjorm hummed as she snuggled into Alfonse's back. "What a day we had… and what a thing to wake up to."

Fjorm chuckled as she took her turn to run a hand through Alfonse's hair. She wanted to turn him around and kiss him, as she was now able to without remorse, but she could feel the strong arms of her friend holding him in place.

"Laev, sheesh." Fjorm laughed under her breath, settling with pecking at Alfonse's ear. "I dreamed that I'd wake like this one day… minus Laev of course, but life finds a way."

She chuckled lowly again and pressed her forehead into the crook of Alfonse's neck. "How are we going to make this work? Yes, we already spend most of the day together, but… can that be called courting? What if… something happens?"

Alfonse seemed to stir, but he only rolled over, Fjorm staring at his closed eyes. It was that face of peace, with slightly swollen lips, that made Fjorm drop her worries for now. "Laev, you sneak."

Taking her turn, Fjorm dove in to take her fill, though hers were lighter and more chaste. She snuck in a few deeper kisses as she ran a hand through his hair, but she pulled back with a smile. "We'll figure it out, I know it. We still have the rest of this trip before us, what better time and place to do it?"

She wasn't expecting Alfonse to smile and open his eyes, a tender sparkle in their depths. "I couldn't agree more. Oh, and good morning to you."

Fjorm flushed and hid her face in his shoulder. "Jerk."

Alfonse chuckled and embraced her, a chuckle rumbling in his chest. "Why would I want to interrupt either of you? I'm worried too, I said as much last night, but we can do this. Well, hopefully without any outside interference."

Fjorm didn't look up, but she knew he meant their friends in the Order. That, and her sister, who was bound to become… determined once she heard about this.

Alfonse pecked the crown of her head. "Come on, we need to get Laev up. Still have things to do before we head off to our next destination."

Fjorm nodded into his shoulder and pulled out if his embrace, her feet settling on the floor quietly. "Should I go get the bell-hop to help?"

Alfonse smiled at her. "Yes, that'd be for the best. Here's hoping Laev won't be too much trouble to get up."

Knowing her, it would be. Fjorm just chalked it up to one of her friend's quirks and got dressed. Once she was done and out the door, Alfonse rolled over to look at Laevatein, her eyes closed.

And a small smirk on her lips. "Stop pretending."

Laevatein opened one eye, smirk widening. "But it was so cute, seeing you reassure her. As for outside interference, that's not going to stop me."

She proved it by flipping Alfonse over and straddling him, a coy grin replacing her smirk. "I don't have to try and be subtle any more, and neither does Fjorm. We'll figure out what we must do in this triangle, no one else will decide it for us. After all, you're used to defying expectations compared to us, and this will be another chance to do so."

She swooped in and kissed him again before Alfonse could get a word in. He wasn't protesting the action, but as Laevatein deepened the kiss and started to run her tongue over his lips, Alfonse pulled back. "Whoa there! Laev, let's not jump the horse, I'm nowhere near comfortable going that fast!"

Laevatein stared at him with hungry eyes but got off of him. "Alright, if you say so. Just know that I'll be more than willing when you're ready to… make this a more physical engagement."

"Why are you such a flirt?" Alfonse sighed, making Laevatein giggle. "I mean, would you be ready to do something like that if I was that forceful?"

Laevatein shrugged. "I doubt we'll ever know, you're not the type. As for being a flirt, well, I've always been very straightforward with my intentions."

She winked at him and hopped onto the floor. "I won't be changing that part of me any time soon. You'll get used to it, but why not get dressed and help me start packing? Fjorm should be back soon."

Alfonse shook his head and got out of bed, the pair sorting out their souvenirs and clothes before Fjorm returned with the bell-hop. Four pairs of hands got everything put away and organized before long, and they tipped the bell-hop well before going into the inn's dining room for breakfast.

"Alright, may as well mark our next destination." Alfonse said after they got their meals. "We're going to a valley that's home to one of Askr's larger cities and a good friend of my family. They own an estate just outside the city limits where we'll be staying."

Fjorm hummed in thought. "A valley you say? What are we to do there besides meet your friend?"

"It's home to a variety of springs and entertainment venues." Alfonse answered, Laevatein and Fjorm perking at the mention of the springs. "Askr's greatest opera house lies within its walls, and we're going to be there just in time for the opening of a new opera. From what I've heard, our very own Selena from the Order composed the score with help from her sister."

Laevatein had to mention one point. "And the springs? Are they from which the city draws its water?"

Alfonse shrugged, guessing at what she wanted to know. "They get their water from a variety of the largest springs, yes, but the estate we'll be staying at has a personal spring over a vein of slow-moving magma. As they were the first settlers of the valley, it was decided they'd get to keep the hot spring for themselves so long as the ash-rich soil around their land was used for the city."

Laevatein nodded in answer, their meal at an end with no one noticing. "Then how long will we be on the road? I assume it's a journey."

"It is." Alfonse sighed. "It'll be a week's ride at a decent clip, mostly due to the rough terrain we'll encounter. The main roads are out of the question from the patrols clogging them, so I had to chose a less traveled path."

The girls frowned in answer, but Alfonse placated them by pointing to another spot on the map. "Thankfully, there's a rest point at the half-way point. It's an old stopping place for travelers ever since Askr was founded, so it's very popular for wandering plays and storytellers to settle for a night and share."

Fjorm silently wondered if they had any ink and parchment. She'd made something of a habit of recording whatever stories she'd heard back at the Order, so maybe she could indulge again.

Laevatein was more interested in the plays. "If we arrive when one such play is occurring, would it be alright to watch? I've seen much music and dance at this point, but a true play has yet to cross my eyes."

"Of course, I'm hoping for it." Alfonse said as he rolled up the map. "We'll make it a date, but there's still three days travel before us. We ready to go?"

Everyone noticed the empty plates at that point and went to the counter to pay. Giving the inn their best, the group mounted their steeds and left Limerick behind. The sound and smells of the sea slowly faded behind them as they ventured inland, only chatter and curious sights distracting them.

Alfonse found himself trading horses every few hours though. Laevatein had groused that Fjorm could hold him close and whisper private comments whenever she pleased while Laevatein couldn't so much as get close to him with her horse.

Of course, she took the chance to sneak in a butt-pinch when he acquiesced and took the reins of her horse and she settled in behind him. Played with his hair and shared a few personal jokes at Fjorm's expanse when her fellow princess got excited by a new sight too.

Then when night came, they shared a tent. Nothing scandalous, Fjorm and Alfonse were simply not ready for something like that, but Laevatein greatly enjoyed teasing the two with poorly disguised innuendo.

At least until she fell asleep and immediately wrapped Alfonse up like a blanket. That got chuckles out of her love and friend before they too fell asleep, Fjorm content to curl against Alfonse and soak in his warmth.

Alfonse was frankly just glad they slept so well. He was fine since Laevatein's heat countered Fjorm's cold, so comfort was no issue for him, but he remembered seeing them haunted by nightmares he'd dare not attempt to understand. If rest came so easily to them now that they'd agreed to his outlandish idea, then he too could rest easy.

And so he did, the routine of making breakfast and setting out in the morning repeating for the next three days. They delayed when Fjorm's horse stumbled along the path, which led them to a small cave filled with red and blue gems that set them all gaping.

They couldn't delay long though, so after filling a small sack with samples and marking the cave on their map, they continued. Again, they played out the various hijinks and shenanigans as only those in love could, the girls giving friendly jabs whenever the other dragged Alfonse into something romantic.

At least, until the time came they spotted their stop. "Is that it?"

Laevatein's confusion wasn't unfounded. The stop could only be generously called a town, with maybe twenty buildings all told surrounding a central square. It was all clean stone though, even the street, so it appeared far more affluent than the size belied.

"As I said, it's a stopover." Alfonse said as they cantered towards the square. "There's only a few permanent residents that keep the place clean and running. The story tellers and troupes that visit bring their own equipment and items while most in the audience are here only a single night."

He pointed to the largest building, a four-floor tall monolith of stone. "It's why the inn is bigger than just about anything else."

Laevatein didn't respond, so Fjorm found the next oddity. "Is that the stage over there?"

Alfonse followed her gaze to another large stone structure that took up an entire side of the square, people buzzing around it like bees in a hive. "Indeed, it is. The stage can hold all kinds of plays and performances, big and small. Not quite to the level of the opera house we'll be visiting, but grand enough."

Conversation stalled as they cantered into the square proper, people milling about as the stage was prepared for the night to come. There were several vendors getting set up along with a steady stream of visitors going to and from the inn, but it wasn't terribly crowded.

"May as well check in." Alfonse said after they had a look around. "Do either of you want to see what they're putting on tonight or are we relaxing inside?"

The girls started to make for the stables beside the inn, a brief discussion flowing between them before Fjorm gave the verdict. "Why not take in a show or two? While I'd love nothing more than to lounge with a good book after being on the road, we'd be remiss to ignore something the locals pride themselves on."

"That, and I spotted some kind of treat made from ice." Laevatein chuckled, gesturing to the vendor in question. "That's something I've never seen before, and Fjorm insists its delicious. That'd be worth being out of a room."

Alfonse shook his head ruefully. "It's always food."

"Of course," Fjorm giggled as they entered the stable and started getting the horses settled. "It draws people together and even the most stubborn of mules will leave its stable for oats. Add on a show for free and you have the perfect selling hook."

Alfonse chuckled in agreement before they got swept up in the process of grabbing their things, checking in, and getting settled in their room. Sharena had struck once more with the reservations, but no one was bothered with the accommodations now.

Especially when they found out the show and vendors wouldn't open for another several hours. With nothing but free time on their hands now, Alfonse started teaching a few games to pass the time. The one they ended up settling on was blackjack, the dealer rotating with each game and their bets made in dried fruit.

Laevateins stoicism served her well when she was playing, but blackjack ultimately came down to luck. It was certainly interesting to see her and Alfonse play poker, but Fjorm wasn't quite as good at maintaining a mask so it stopped being fun after a while.

Lunch came and went, Alfonse wandering down to learn the name of tonight's play, while Fjorm taught Laevatein how to play Cat's Cradle. "Ok, so it's basically making string figures. If you mess up the figure, then the other person wins."

She created the figure the game was named after with some extra thread they had on hand. "This is the starting figure. From here, you can go into almost a dozen others, and then another dozen from there, and so on."

She demonstrated several such figures to the curious Laevatein before unraveling the thread and handing it to her friend. "Now, give it a go. Take it slow and you should be fine."

Laevatein stared at the thread before slowly tying it around her fingers and manipulating it. As the seconds turned into minutes, Fjorm had to stop herself from giggling as Laevatein started to get frustrated.

"This is foolish." Laevatein muttered after getting her fingers knotted together. "Why would anyone attempt to play this?"

Fjorm helped her untie her fingers before answering. "The idea is to encourage creativity and nimble fingers. Or, that's what my sister and brother told me when I was taught. Dexterous hands have all sorts of uses, no?"

Laevatein felt a smile rise on her face, a few ideas passing through her mind. "Most certainly… alright, I'll keep trying."

Fjorm spotted the flash of mischief in Laevatein's eye and she silently hoped it wouldn't lead to anything too out of the ordinary.

Another hour passed as Laevatein started to get the hang of the game, Fjorm eventually joining her for the pair's version. By the time they successfully completed a complicated figure after almost a dozen alterations, Alfonse had come back.

"You two are good at that." He noted as they deliberated on the next figure, making them jump. "Not as good as Sharena or Lady Ninian when they choose to play, but good nonetheless."

Laevatein took that as a challenge. "Then we'll have to see who is truly superior upon our return. I'm sure another couple weeks of practice will see my skill eclipse that of your sister."

"Quite the boast." Alfonse chuckled as Fjorm untangled herself and walked over. "I wish you luck on that. As for the news I went to find, the show tonight is a rendition of an old tale. It's about one of my ancestors' and her journey to defeat an ogre warlord."

Fjorm had never heard of such a thing. "An ogre warlord? Was Askr truly beset by such things? I thought only Corrin's world had them."

"Nah, they existed." Laevatein said as she freed her hands, sauntered over, and threw herself into Alfonse's lap. "Muspel has all the bones to prove it. Some of the generals like to use them as decorations, for reasons I can't begin to understand."

Alfonse grunted from the impact while Fjorm shook her head. "Laev, don't do that. Anyway, do you think they'll mind if I write down the overall tale. I'd like to add it to my collection back at the castle."

Alfonse glowered at the smirking Laevatein before nodding to Fjorm. "Of course, most of the other storytellers in the crowd will be doing the same. They even offer parchment and ink downstairs if your own supplies aren't enough."

Fjorm gave off a pleased hum. "I'll be sure to take them up on it. Should we wear something nice though? I don't believe this is formal or anything."

Alfonse shook his head and started to play with Laevatein's hair, a purr rumbling in her throat. "…I won't comment on you purring, Laev. As for dress, we're fine as we are. Everyone here is a traveler and the fare is made to be eaten with your hands. Best we keep ourselves in something that won't stand out and can be washed."

Fjorm looked down to her current dress, the garment splotched with dirt and grass stains. "…True enough. We've all got spares last I checked, but I'll get changed first and go get my supplies."

She went to her stack of items and started searching, Alfonse watching her contently while continuing to stroke Laevatein's hair. Once she had her spare dress, she went into the other room for a few minutes before emerging with a grin. "Alright, good to go. How long until the play again?"

Alfonse was still… petting Laevatein like a cat. "Not for another hour when I asked. The stalls and vendors will be open in thirty minutes though, we'll have time to grab snacks."

He whispered for Laevatein to go change, the princess doing so with much overly dramatic motions and sighs. She even shot him a gaze that looked all too similar to a grouchy kitten when their owner had to leave.

Once she was tucked away in the room to change, Fjorm took a seat next to Alfonse. "I think Laev's part cat."

Alfonse guffawed at the observation. "No, really? And here I thought the stray cats we ran into yesterday were just friendly."

Fjorm gave him a playful glare. "She saw that kitten and started playing with it immediately. The mother didn't even hiss as Laev picked it up and cuddled it. If that doesn't show some feline attributes, I don't know what does."

Alfonse chuckled and pecked her cheek, Fjorm blushing in confusion. "You're both adorable when you want to be. Laev may get all mushy with cats, but I know someone who gets very excited about every new patch of trees we pass."

Fjorm pouted. "That's not… entirely true. I only get excited when I see something new, like those badgers we saw."

Alfonse kissed her cheek again and took her hand. He held it up to show a small bandage on the back. "Yes, quite cute and lovely to observe… not attempt to handle, hm?"

"You've made your point." Fjorm muttered, blush deepening. "It's not my fault the mother was so quiet."

This time Alfonse reached out to cup her cheek and pull her into an actual kiss. When he pulled back, he was smiling at her red face. "I agree that badgers are normally very loud, but you grabbed the baby. No time for warnings at that point."

Fjorm muttered something before they heard the door open and Laevatein walked out. She took one look at them and sighed. "I'm gone five minutes."

Laevatein sauntered over and pulled on Alfonse's cheek with her finger. Once he was looking at her, Laevatein leaned in and kissed him, Alfonse returning the affection before pulling back.

"Just like a cat." Fjorm laughed with a shake of her head, blush fading. "Are we spoiling you, Laev?"

Laevatein gave her a lazy smile. "Of course. Everything you've done since day one has been spoiling me, and now I have the freedom to show my feelings to the one I love."

Fjorm took the opening and wrapped her fingers around Alfonse's hand. "As do I. That doesn't mean you don't act like a cat, Laev. I've seen how you lounge and pose, just like a kitten trying to get attention."

"You're a puppy then." Laevatein countered with a smirk, no malice in the jab. "Always sticking close to our lover and constantly calling for his attention. Never have I seen you part from him for too long, unless escorting me of course."

Alfonse shook his head in amusement. "Girls, enough, I can't dodge all these arrows. I love you both, as you know, and I'll do my best to show that. No need to call each other dogs and cats."

"We're not being mean." Laevatein chuckled, throwing Fjorm a wink. "Just teasing. You are like an old- hand on a ranch, my love. Patient while trying to wrangle wildly different animals."

Alfonse sighed in exasperation. "Let's leave the animal talk for later, yes? I believe there's a play to see and snacks to sample."

Fjorm giggled and clicked her teeth at him, as if biting something. "I don't know, I feel the need to chew on something. Maybe this puppy wants a treat?"

The sheer saccharine tone made Alfonse and Laevatein gape at her.

"What, too much?"

Alfonse nodded slowly. "Yeah… I mean, if you want a snack that bad…"

Fjorm flushed and hid her face in her hand, stifling an embarrassed squeal. "Damn it… Laev, you were supposed to back me up, this is mortifying!"

Laevatein shrugged helplessly with a laugh. "Fjorm… I had no idea you were going to do that. I'm supposed to be the flirty type who uses way too much innuendo."

She smirked and twirled a finger through her hair. "Speaking of, this kitty wants her catnip. Shall we get a move on?"

"Let me change." Alfonse laughed, giving a kiss to each before entering the side room. Once he was gone, Fjorm groaned and sunk onto the couch. "Do you think he'll still respect us at the end of this?"

"I… think so." Laevatein hedged. "I mean, assuming you don't continue to think I can read minds."

Fjorm sighed and shook her head. "I thought all that talk about cats and dogs would be right up your alley, that's why I went all flirty. You know, double team him, get him off balance."

Laevatein looked confused before a smug grin came to life. "Sneaky woman, you wanted to bed him."

Fjorm almost leapt off the couch in denial. "No, I don't! I 've told you a thousand times, this relationship just started, I'm not ready for… that! I just thought it'd be fun!"

"Sure… sure." Laevatein drawled, not believing Fjorm in the slightest. "Then that mumbling I heard when you were humping his back two days ago didn't mean anything at all."

"Laev!"

Laevatein laughed as Fjorm charged her, the pair running about the room for a few minutes before Alfonse came out and stopped the pursuit. Once they were settled down and the girls claimed an arm each, it was time to get snacks and drinks.

"I should've never given you access to my books." Fjorm muttered shortly after they'd left the inn. "It's given you way too many ideas."

Laevatein shrugged. "It's not my fault you brought so many romances and adventure stories. If anything, you should question your taste in literature."

"In Fjorm's defense, you had no taste in literature to start with." Alfonse reminded gently, Laevatein looking away. "But I'm glad you've enjoyed the stories during our down time. Now, you both mentioned ice, where at?"

Laevatein was relieved he didn't think less of her for that and pointed to the stall in question. Truthfully, she did greatly enjoy Fjorm's books, but most of her innuendo came from the stash that Fjorm though she kept hidden in her rucksack.

Who knew such a kindhearted young woman would enjoy such steamy erotica? Maybe that's where Fjorm had gotten the idea of double teaming their lover.

Shaking her head of such thoughts, Laevatein felt herself stare at the stand Alfonse had led them too. There were several buckets filled with milk and ice and a bowl where the ice and milk were being mixed into some kind of concoction alongside sugar and oil. "What… is that?"

"Ice cream!" Fjorm cheered when she got a good look at it. "Even back home we didn't get this often! It's vanilla and they have a lot of fruits and nuts and sauces!"

Fjorm then happily ordered a cup with three scoops of the treat along with a sauce made from strawberries and a few of the tasty fruits on her treat. Alfonse ordered three scoops as well, but with a chocolate sauce that the vendor was offering only that day.

Laevatein… didn't know what to order beyond the three scoops. "What do you… recommend for someone who's never had this treat?"

"I'd go with chocolate sauce and cherries." Fjorm answered as she took a bite. "Mm, so good!"

Alfonse was a little more thorough. "It really depends what you'd pair with vanilla. I like the chocolate sauce since it makes the treat richer and they pair well. If you prefer a lighter touch, then just go with strawberries, or add grapes with it if you want a little bit more juice."

Laevatein had a dozen dirty comments pass through her mind, but she somehow held off the urge. "Then… I'll take strawberries and grapes, with three scoops."

The vendor gladly filled the order and gave her the treat with a little spoon sticking out of it. Laevatein stared at the spoon for a moment before pulling it out and gathering the treat and fruit into one bite.

As she bit into it, flavor blossomed on her tongue and she knew a favorite treat had been found. "Wow… you weren't kidding, this is great."

"I know!" Fjorm sighed dreamily, already half-way through her serving. "I try to savor it, but I just can't! The way it melts into sweet cream and the fresh bite of the fruit, oh I'm in heaven!"

Alfonse gave her a smug look. "Now I know why Gunnthra forbid anyone from making this back at the castle. You'd eat the whole thing if given half a chance."

Fjorm smacked him with a frown. "That is no way to talk to a lady, let alone one of your paramours."

Alfonse rubbed his sore arm with a smile. "I'm not saying no one would join you, it's just your reaction is so… you. I love seeing you get all excited, just as I love seeing Laevatein discover new things."

Fjorm and Laevatein couldn't help but smile at him, though Fjorm's was fonder than her friend's. "You must stop being so romantic, my love. Our poor hearts can only take so much on any given day."

"He's not trying if he doesn't push the boundaries." Laevatein said before pointing to the seats that were beginning to fill. "Now that we've pushed them, let us take in the play. I believe recording the story shall calm your racing heart, and I shall learn all I can from the performance."

Alfonse took a bite of his treat and nodded. "Let's go then. If either of you have any questions, feel free to ask."

Fjorm and Laevatein looked to each other and nodded.

"We will, don't worry."

-Night-

Boy did they ask questions.

The play itself was well done, the performers hitting all the high notes of the story with the appropriate skill and flair. Alfonse would even say that, for a traveling theater troupe, they were good enough to settle in just about any city in Askr.

Fjorm was enraptured by the story soon after the play began, quill almost smoking against parchment as she strove to copy every word and action. During breaks and interludes, she'd turn to Alfonse and bombard him with questions about the characters, their pasts and histories, and so on. It was kind of impressive, seeing that passion up close, but Alfonse knew it came from her love of tales and stories.

It was one thing she could always show, no matter the time or place.

Laevatein had a barrage of her own, mostly centered around the reasons for the characters' action and the history behind them. She had a few cultural questions too, but her enthusiasm was a great deal more subdued compared to Fjorm's giddiness.

She was a little too content from her icy treat and the chance to lean into Alfonse for hours on end.

The play did eventually close to resounding applause and the lovers returned to their room. Fjorm was still very much awake and was happily reciting her notes to Alfonse when they glanced over and found Laevatein splayed across the bed, dozing off.

"Tired?" Alfonse asked as he stood and walked over to her.

Laevatein mumbled something that Alfonse took as agreement. "I see, then go ahead and rest. We'll be on the road again in the morning."

Laevatein pawed for his hand and Alfonse gave it, his lover bringing it close for a light kiss. "…Goodnight."

"Goodnight."

Laevatein's breath slowed and her grip slackened as she fell to dreams, Alfonse stroking her hand until he was sure she wouldn't wake up. Once free, he went back to Fjorm, who was staring at him with an unreadable expression. "You're taking well to this."

"Is… that a bad thing?" Alfonse asked as he took a seat across from her.

Fjorm drummed her fingers on the couch, not sure how to answer. "I mean… yes and no. Yes at the fact you've been doing your best to make sure you're not playing favorites and showing affection to us like I believe courting should be…"

Alfonse didn't need to hear the other part. "Are… you concerned I'll start looking for others?"

Fjorm looked ashamed. "Honestly… a little bit, yes. You just kind of fell into this triangle, but you act so natural that I can't help but think we accidently woke up your inner Casanova. You're so sweet, but… I really would prefer it be just me and Laev at most."

Alfonse smiled at her, even as Fjorm preferred to stare at the hem of her dress. "Fjorm… I understand, thank you for being honest with me. In return, I'll be honest with you."

He stood and strode to her side, taking a seat and her hand at the same time. "Fjorm… I've had my eyes drawn to you since we've met. Beauties of legends have walked through the halls in which we live, but never once did I feel my gaze stray from you. It wasn't until I first caught sight of Laevatein did I feel my gaze turn, but even then, you eclipse even Princess Camilla and Sonya."

Fjorm blushed at the effusive praise. "T-that can't be true. Princess Camilla and Sonya are practically goddesses, not to mention the likes of Lady Cordelia and Lady Kagero. Surely you've stared after them at least once."

Alfonse leaned in and kissed her cheek. "Only before I met you. Passion and drive go a long way with me, and you have it in spades. I'd have fallen for you even were you a troll."

Fjorm pouted and glared at him. "Hmph, a troll you say? I put so much effort into looking nice, are you saying I shouldn't try?"

"That's not what I'm saying at all." Alfonse said, seeing through her bluff. "I speak only the truth, your soul is beautiful. It's simply a blessing that you can be beautiful both outside and inside, the latter of which I find far and away more important."

Fjorm kept her pout, but the glare lessened. "…Fine, you're off the hook."

Alfonse chuckled and kissed her cheek again. "I've never heard such good news. But, just to be sure, know this Fjorm."

He leaned in and rested his head against hers. "The most beautiful women in all the worlds are in this room, and I have been able to give my heart to them. I know for certain no other will stand before me and shine so brightly as you and Laev. That's… that's why I really hope this works."

Fjorm closed the distance and kissed him. After a moment, she pulled back to speak. "Me too, my love, me too. Though… I have to ask."

She leaned away and smiled at him, a spark of humor in her eyes. "How long have you been practicing those cheesy lines?"

Alfonse hugged her close with a sigh. "More than I care to admit."

The lovers held the embrace for several minutes, enjoying the presence of the other for as long as they could. Then Fjorm looked to the windows and saw the moon shining through. "It's late, we need to rest."

Alfonse nodded and stood, Fjorm going with him. "I'll take care of the lamps. You go ahead and turn in, I'll join before long."

Fjorm embraced him again before slipping into the side room to change. Alfonse extinguished the lamps and candles quickly, but even he wasn't quick enough to finish before Fjorm returned and slipped into the bed.

As fast in safety as in battle.

Alfonse shook his head ruefully and went to change. He may not have been as fast as Fjorm, but he was ready to go in short order, only to find Laevatein sitting up when he returned. "Laev, what are you doing up?"

Laevatein looked to him before patting the spot next to her. "You've had the middle every night since we started this… new step. It felt weird not having you here."

Alfonse popped his lips in realization. "Oh, you're right. I apologize, has my absence caused you any discomfort?"

Laevatein shook her head with a sigh. "No, dork. Just get over here so we can sleep."

Alfonse chuckled and went to the bed, Laevatein graciously getting out so he could slide into the middle. Once everyone was situated, Fjorm doing so unconsciously as she'd already dozed off, Alfonse felt Laevatein embrace him. "Comfortable now?"

Laevatein cupped his cheek and claimed a deep kiss. A moment later, she was done. "…Mostly."

Alfonse didn't get to reply before she wrapped her arms around him and snuggled into his shoulder.

"…Now I am."

Alfonse chuckled and wrapped an arm around her, Laevatein snuggling in further as he oyed with a strand of her hair. "…You looking forward to the next destination?"

Laevatein hummed sleepily, already dozing off again. "Certainly… I'll be there with you… and Fjorm… only having… my sister… would be better…"

Alfonse nodded silently, Laevatein's mumbles falling off as she went back to sleep. Fjorm was deep in her dreams, so Alfonse was alone with his thoughts.

Even should we work, somehow, what will we do with our families. Sharena's going to be just fine, probably Gunnthra too, but what of Laegjarn and Hrid? Or Ylgr for that matter? I'm sure they won't take this well.

He'd only met the older Nifl prince and younger princess briefly before they'd gone back to the front and went into hiding respectively. They quite obviously cared deeply for Fjorm, and Hrid was almost like Alfonse in his seriousness and determination to protect what he cared for.

Laegjarn, based on past actions, considered her sister something worth more than her life. She too would want to protect her sister at all costs.

That kind of determination and the current situation was a volatile mix, to put it lightly.

I really shouldn't think on it too much, but there's only a few more stops before we return to the castle. I… I'm going to have to sit them down after we leave the city and figure this out.

He sighed and settled back, Fjorm unconsciously taking hold of his arm. That was going to be a fun time, no doubt, but there were still a few days before that happened.

Best to rest and wake with a fresh mind.

-Three Days Later, Outside City-

The next three days passed peacefully, the lovers meandering through the mountains of Askr on their journey to the next stop. Seeing the vistas and life that sat upon the great monoliths further showed the Askr was indeed blessed with bounties beyond anything the girls had seen.

That didn't mean they didn't consider their own mountains lesser. Alfonse spent two straight nights listening to them describe how the mountains of Nifl almost glowed in the sunlight while auroras danced around them and how the Muspel mountains were always draped in a dazzling dance of embers and liquid fire.

He also witnessed Laevatein singlehandedly wrestle a bear into submission when the creature had wandered by their campsite and tried to sneak off with some of their food. For all their battlefield experience and training, it still amazed Fjorm and Alfonse that she could suplex something twice as tall as her and five times as heavy.

Fjorm did something equally impressive. They'd arrived at one of the mountain rivers in the midst of a salmon run, the normal bears gone after eating their absolute fill. They'd be back tomorrow, but Fjorm took the time to use her innate powers to freeze a portion of the river and haul the makeshift salmon trap out of the rapids.

They ate well that night.

Finally, not to be outdone, Alfonse took care of a large boulder tin their path. It was easily the size of a small house, but with a little ingenuity and liberal application of a shovel, the great rock was pushed out of the road and into a ravine.

They'd have been more hesitant to do that if the ravine in question wasn't a natural dumping site for the rockslides that occasionally rolled down the mountains.

Regardless, the city came into sight around noon, the party arriving at the gates soon after. Laevatein had only seen a city this large once, back home in Muspel's capital, so she felt the need to ask. "How many people call this place home?"

Alfonse looked at her as the gates passed by. "Almost fifty thousand last I checked. The valley's fields are rich with produce and travelers come far and wide to see the opera house. It's only natural so many would choose to settle here."

Fjorm was looking around in awe, the streets more crowded than any she'd ever seen while the buildings almost exploded with the decorations of their occupants. "Amazing that so many could call one place home. Though… I thought you said this friend lived outside the city."

Alfonse nodded, his steed acting as a guide through the crowds. "He is, but there's a place I wish to ring you before we go meet him. It's a favorite of mine and I feel we should take in a meal before heading out again."

Fjorm hummed, her arms around Alfonse's waist. "That sounds nice. What kind of food is served?"

"Steak," Alfonse answered, making Laevatein perk up. "That's their specialty, but they also do all kind s of meats and vegetables. Sharena swears by something called a veggie wrap, but I usually go for a regular steak."

Fjorm licked her lips in thought before Alfonse gestured to a building they'd cantered up to. "This is the place. They have a set of stables since so many travelers stop by, but I don't know if any will be open."

Laevatein dismounted and strode to what she thought was the stables in question. "Let's see… it looks like they've got two open."

"Then we'll need to make this a meal and run." Fjorm sighed as she dismounted, Alfonse leading his steed to one of the open stalls. "I don't want to leave these poor things crowded together for too long."

Alfonse voiced his agreement and they went into the main area of the building after stabling the horses. One of the waiters recognized Alfonse and swiftly procured a table for them, the lovers making quick decisions on their meals.

Only a short while later, the sound of sizzling meat met their ears and the waiter returned. Laevatein and Alfonse had a steak with collared greens while Fjorm had buckled and gotten the vegetable wrap Alfonse had mentioned.

They had to eat quickly, but the girls swiftly understood why Alfonse enjoyed the place. The food was fantastic and the dining room in which they sat was filled with rustic decorations that gave it a homey feel.

Very comfortable, considering the rowdy crowds outside.

They finished, paid, and were soon back in the city. Squares, streets, guards, and all the panoply of a city surrounded them for the next few hours, Fjorm and Laevatein pulling Alfonse here and there at each curiosity. They were amazed at seeing so many merchants and artisans around, but what especially impressed them were the buildings.

It was like walking among giants of stone and metal, especially the city hall and garrison that looked like a mansion and castle all their own. They even caught sight of the elegant arches and facades of the opera house they'd be visiting that night.

Alfonse eventually wrangled their curiosity and got them out of the city and towards the manor of his family's friend. They passed many farms on the way, the lovers reminiscing on their time in the field at their first stop, but eventually the manor came into view.

"It's quite the manor." Fjorm noted when she saw it. "It even has several other buildings beside the main house."

Laevatein agreed. "I've seen the rivers that feed this place, but I have to assume the hot spring you told us about is housed in one of those buildings, correct?"

"That you are." Alfonse said, pointing to a small building poking out from behind the main building. "It's behind the manor itself. If we're lucky, they won't be doing maintenance and we can use the spring."

Laevatein and Fjorm shared conspiratorial grins. Now that they were open about their relationship and feelings, repeating the stunt at the falls was bound to go over far better.

…Well, that's what Laevatein was thinking. Fjorm just wanted to do the first part where they snuck a peek on Alfonse.

They were not, however, greeted by Alfonse's friend. Instead, a group of four familiar faces came out of the manor as they cantered up to the doors.

"Sir Robin, Lady Cordelia?" Alfonse asked when he got a good look at the first two. "Lady Selena and Morgan too? What are you doing here?"

Selena flipped her hair back and stared at the trio. "We're here for the opera that's opening tonight. It'd be a little odd if the writers weren't there for the opening, don't ya think?"

"I'm so excited!" Morgan cheered, though her eyes were flitting between the three before her. "Sis and I have been working on the darn thing for months, it'll be great to see it put on!"

Cordelia decided to get the ball rolling. "I see that the mission is going well, yes? You trust her to ride alone after all."

Alfonse glanced back to Laevatein. "Indeed… she has shown no inclination as to wanting to attack us or anything like that. In fact, she's quite looking forward to the opera tonight, same as your girls."

"Truly," Robin mumbled as he noted Fjorm tighten her grip on Alfonse's waist. "Well then, I'm sure you'd enjoy joining us for the opera. We're quite proud of our daughters and the lord of this manor was so ecstatic about the show, he even let us have run of the place tonight."

Fjorm saw the chance she'd been waiting for. "Alfonse told me there's a hot spring here. Is it available for use?"

Cordelia looked to her daughter and the clearly eager Laevatein before nodding. "We were actually discussing if we should use it. If you're interested, we'll head over right at sun down. The show won't start for another few hours after that."

Fjorm nodded eagerly and Robin strode forward to take the reigns from Alfonse. "Alright, with that settled, let's get you all inside. We'll help you get moved into rooms before catching up."

As the party dismounted and started unloading their things, Selena looked ot her sister and started to whisper. "You don't think that letter on Feh was true, do you?"

Morgan shrugged, a silly grin on her face. "Who knows? Oboro was super sure about what she saw, kept saying it no matter how hysterical Gunnthra and Sharena got at the implications. At least now we can see if it's true."

Selena huffed and scowled at her sister. "If it's true, I'll eat my coat."

-Sundown, Baths-

"I'll have you know, I like how my coat tastes."

Morgan guffawed, the ladies lounging in one of the hot spring's pools. The spring had several pools of varying heat, with about half set aside for women and the other half for men. A tall wall separated the pools so no one would have any bright ideas.

The girls had barely settled into the baths and started to relax when Cordelia asked if it was true that Fjorm and Laevatein were in competition for Alfonse's affections. It shocked the two in question that Cordelia would be so blunt, but their answer that Alfonse was actually courting both of them had sent jaws into the water.

"I'm just as shocked as you." Morgan muttered, arms crossed under her breasts. "I was expecting a competition, not a literal triangle straight out of Aunt Sumi's romance novels."

Fjorm was in the next pool over, not able to handle the hotter bath the other women were in. "Well… it just kind of happened. I was tired and exhilarated after getting dragged into a performance with Lady Azura, so I up and confessed to him as we were dancing. Kissed him right there."

Laevatein only had her legs in the water, a over her lap. "I walked by, sulked for a while, and tried to seduce him that night in some misguided belief I could claim a stake. Boy were we surprised he gave us such a fun day after that."

Cordelia was leaned back in the water, staring up at the sky painted with the colors of sunset. "But how did you decide a three-way was going to work? I was curious enough to find out the customs of all your lands and courting more than one person is heavily frowned on."

"We'll spare you the details." Fjorm sighed. "Just know that Alfonse asked us if we'd be ok trying this kind of relationship after a lot of thought. We agreed so long as there would be no hard feelings if it doesn't work, and here we are."

Selena scoffed and stood, water flowing over her body. "That guy would get a piece of my mind if you weren't vouching for him. Personally, I don't like the idea, but you do what you want. I'm more concerned about getting this opera on the road."

Cordelia rolled her eyes at her eldest. "Come now, there's no need to be rude. I know you and Lucina are bound at the hip, but some people just have other ways of doing things. Why, now that I know the truth, it reminds me of an old joke in the Shepherds before Emmeryn died."

Everyone looked to her, Morgan paddling over to give her mother puppy eyes. "What is it?! You almost never share what it was like back then!"

Selena tried to look disinterested, but she sunk back into the water regardless.

Cordelia smirked at them before turning her gaze back to the sky. "While I was dating my husband, it was well known amongst the Shepherds that Exalt Emmeryn enjoyed teasing him. Robin did his best to get used to it, but you should've heard how she'd flirt with him. Always got a laugh out of everyone."

Selena and Morgan exchanged glances, both crossing their arms and frowning.

"Ah, they've figured it out." Cordelia laughed as her glowering daughter, their naked state destroying any sense of anger they were trying to project. "But to continue, it was a joke that Robin would one day marry me because I was his first love while Emmeryn would marry him just to keep teasing him. I even had a dream a few weeks before I had a fight with Robin."

She looked over to Fjorm and Laevatein who were staring at her in disbelief. "In it, I thought I'd woken up to see Robin lying beside me, as I've done many times since we've wed. I knew it was a dream at that point and was just playing along until… well, I saw someone else sit up next to him."

"You dreamed that father and you slept with Emmeryn!" Morgan exclaimed, Cordelia dunking her head into the water to shush her.

Selena was aghast. "Mother, you can't be serious!"

Cordelia shrugged and let Morgan up for air. "Oh, that's not the worst of it. As the dream went on, I noticed that we each had wedding bands. They were different designs, obviously, but Robin had two on his ring finger to prove it. Emmeryn even… called me lover."

Cordelia shuddered in time with her audience. "I woke up at that point since I was just beyond embarrassed. Lady Emmeryn was beautiful, but I only ever had eyes for the guys, so that really freaked me out."

Fjorm chuckled after a moment and nodded to Selena. "Maybe that's where her lesbian streak came from. Tell me, did the idea of Exalt Emmeryn holding a place in Robin's heart like that truly disgust you?"

Cordelia looked at Fjorm curiously, ignoring her duaghter's indignant 'hey!'. "Well… I'd never share him now, I've had him to myself for far too long to ever be agreeable to that idea. The dream followed me until I went on that last patrol though, and…"

"Well, I wasn't all that against the idea."

Selena and Morgan started groaning in disgust, complaining about the very idea of calling Emmeryn mother. They'd grown up with her as an idol to aspire to and respect, they simply couldn't reconcile the idea of her being blood.

Or the idea of having even more siblings, the two of them had a hard enough time with each other as was.

Laevatein watched the family bicker quietly, curious as to how they could be so acerbic yet hold no venom. Fjorm, seeing this curiosity, got out of the bath and walked over to her. "What's up?"

Laevatein looked to her friend before pointing to the others, Selena and Morgan tackling their mother. "Is… this how normal families act? They're so sharp with their words and will even wrestle with one another, yet…"

She paused as the others came up for air, laughter coming from all of them despite Cordelia having Morgan in a headlock while Selena gave her a literal titty twister.

"They can laugh like that."

Fjorm chuckled as Cordelia delivered retricution for Selena's attack in the form of a drop kick, the other girl flying into another pool. "Honestly… I'm not sure. My older sister greatly enjoys teasing me, but my brother and younger sister are a great deal more serious and gentler. They treat me with kindness, yes, but they're not quite this… rowdy."

Morgan proved it by leaping up and wrapping her legs around Cordelia's head, blinding her. Cordelia didn't take it lying down and went into an immediate fall that ended with Morgan smacking her head against the poolside.

With Selena groaning in the next pool over and Morgan nursing a major headache, Cordelia roared her victory.

Laevatein blinked slowly.

"…I can only hope that, should this work out, our family isn't like that."

Fjorm shook her head with a smile and went to help Morgan. "Let's not count our chickens before they hatch."

"We have an opera to watch first."

-Alfonse-

"Lord Robin… are your girls always like this?"

Alfonse and Robin were in one of the pools near the wall. They'd thought it'd be a good place to keep talking to them over the barrier, but now they were just listening as Robin's family wrestled.

"Not always, but often enough." Robin sighed, ruing their antics. "Honestly, I'm just glad they're not pulling me into it. Morgan doesn't understand that leg swipes on me won't work and her sister always goes for the jaw."

Alfonse grunted in response and they were quiet for a time. Then, he had to ask. "Tell me, Lord Robin, was what your wife said about Exalt Emmeryn true?"

Robin eyed him warily. "What part? If you're asking if she liked to flirt to get a rise out of me, you'd be correct. I didn't remember my past when I first met her and my flustered reactions to her flirtations were enough to keep her entertained."

Alfonse worked his jaw before sighing. "I meant if it's true what the others of your company were saying. Did you ever… feel attracted to the Exalt? Even when you started dating Cordelia?"

"I wasn't really dating her at the time." Robin grumbled. "Though looking back on it, we certainly were. To be honest with you, Alfonse, every single man in the kingdom was attracted to her. You've seen the portraits, but they do her no justice. Were it not for Cordelia speaking to me and catching my attention so early… who knows."

He sighed and leaned back. "Of course, all that speculation means nothing. Emmeryn died, no two ways about it. I never knew Cordy had a dream like that, but even if my wife and Emmeryn had been ok with what's happening with you, Chrom and Lissa would've had my neck."

Alfonse chuckled at the idea of the bubbly cleric and her brother bearing down on a cowering Robin with flames in their eyes. "Well, I fear such a thing may just happen to me. Can I count on your support should such an event come to pass?"

Robin laughed and shook Alfonse's hand. "Sure, and I'm certain you'll have Corrin's as well. Tell me, did he tell you he was in the same situation as you, but with three women? And it worked out?"

Alfonse stared at Robin before a memory came to him. "So… that's why Hana and Flora were so happy to see him."

Robin only laughed and stood. "Come on, we need to get changed. Knowing how my girls are, someone's going to need an icepack and a round with the healing staff."

Alfonse chuckled and followed, an easy grin on his face when he met up with Fjorm and Laevatein after changing. "You two ready to get this show on the road?"

Fjorm and Laevatein looked to each other and nodded before taking an arm each, their worries soothed.

"Of course," Fjorm started.

"We're always looking forward to a new show, so long as you're with us." Laevatein finished, Alfonse laughing as they dragged him along.

"You guys need to stop reading those romance novels, they're making you just as cheesy as I am."

The girls laughed and kissed his cheeks before dragging him to their rooms so they could model and force him to model. It was bound to be a fun couple hours before heading to the opera house.

-Meanwhile, Manor Balcony-

Two figures watched the lovers leave the manor with the others silently, neither speaking until they were out of sight.

"So, it's true." One of them muttered as they stepped into the light to reveal Gunnthra. "But I certainly never thought my little Fjorm would confess after being with Alfonse only a week and a half. Nor did I ever expect her to… share."

Her gaze went to her companion, the figure stepping into the light to show Princess Laegjarn. "I didn't believe damn word after Father was defeated, yet here I stand, with Laevatein hooked around a man's arm and laughing. Were I not already aware of his skills, I'd have attacked him the moment they entered."

Gunnthra sighed and shook her head. "I'm surprised she appears to have agreed to share too. From what I've gleaned in our talks these last few days, Laevatein never sounded like someone who'd ever be selfish in the first place. Yet, after confessing, she's somehow been able to be selfish and selfless at the same time."

Laegjarn grunted. "It is certainly strange, but… she looks happy. I haven't seen her like this since we were smaller than Ylgr, and it's… strange but heartening at the same time."

Gunntrha chuckled and looked to the city, eyes warm. "Indeed… I don't know if this relationship they find themselves in will bear fruit, but I do wish them the best. It will certainly be entertaining to hear their stories upon their return."

"Right, Queen Laegjarn?"

Laegjarn remained stoic and sighed. "That it will be, but know that if either of them hurt my sister, there will be consequences."

Gunnthra's eyes sharpened. "The same goes for her, as I'm sure you know. Now then, let us turn to other matters while they take in the opera. We were just about to agree on my brother taking up the mantle of ambassador yes?"

Gunnthra turned away as Laegjarn answered. "Of course, Queen Gunnthra. I do believe such a choice is in the best interests of our kingdoms."

Gunnthra didn't need to hide her smile this time. Hrid and Laegjarn were such similar personalities and they already got along well in the short time since the war had ended.

And Gunnthra wasn't blind, not when she saw Laegjarn's cheeks color whenever Hrid joined a meeting.

…

She needed to find a paramour of her own, being third or fourth out of her siblings to find one would just be depressing.

But for now, matchmaker!

Ch. End

I cannot begin to apologize for how long this took, I have been utterly swamped with school to the point I haven't been able to work on much of anything.

To make up for it, if only a bit, I present this massive new chapter. I do hope you all enjoy as there's only two more chapters and the epilogue to go and we'll be finished.

Thank you for your patience and I'll see you next time.

Ciao!