A large, public gathering took place at the main courtyard of the Fire Kingdom. They chatted as they were anxiously waiting for Flame Princess to make a public announcement. Suddenly, everyone hushed as they noticed Flame Princess walk up to the podium on the stage.
She tapped the microphone a couple times before speaking, "My loyal subjects, we are gathered here today to commemorate those who have given their lives for the good of our beloved kingdom. They are to be acknowledged for answering above and beyond the call of duty in preserving our way of life."
Flame Princess looked over to one of her generals who was holding a case full of medals. The elemental nodded and stepped over to her side. When he got close, he opened the case for FP to distribute the medals.
She resumed her speech, "I hereby award the Distinguished Flame Cross, the highest honor the Fire Kingdom can bestow to the following: Finn the Human, Cinnamon Bun, and Major Hartsock." After she listed the names, she turned around and pinned the medals to each person's chest. FP then returned to the podium, "Let it be known to this day, that these brave men fought to protect the kingdom in the face of adversity... And let us not forget those who have lost their lives from battle."
FP signaled the guards to pull the curtain off the structure behind her and continued, "This large, obsidian tombstone behind me is dedicated to Captain Darius and the 80 troops who valiantly fought against the enemy in front of our kingdom's capital... Let us now take a moment of silence to honor our fallen."
Everyone solemnly bowed their heads in silence. After 5 minutes, FP looked up and concluded, "Our hearts and prayers go to those who have lost their friends and families. Let us never forget their noble sacrifice."
The procession ended moments later as 21 alchemists shot quick streams of fire into the air 3 times. Then, the crowd continued to pay their respects leaving flowers at the memorial.
Finn, FP, and CB made their way towards the palace throne room. They still needed to address political matters regarding the welfare of the kingdom. Once they assembled, the monarch took her seat at the throne while her companions stood beside her on both sides. Moments later, a messenger stepped forward and kneeled before his king.
"You may rise, fellow citizen," Flame Princess said.
The messenger rose up responding, "My liege, the last remnants of resistance have been dealt with. Flame King has been successfully transferred to the Vulcan maximum security prison by your orders."
The monarch nodded in approval, "Do we have any leads about the cause of this rebellion?"
He replied, "Given our recent reports, we know that he and Don John were freed from private mercenaries. Although, how they managed to contact them remains to be known. We have also interrogated the remaining rebels to determine their motives and they have explained that it was because of their distaste with your policy of total honesty."
"I see, I have realized the flaws in my decree recently and I hereby revoke it. Now, what is the status of our kingdom's condition?"
"The fire golems have managed to restore 70% of our local homes and workplaces. At this rate, we should be able to finish by the end of the week. Unfortunately, the rebellion has destroyed a substantial portion of our food resources that we may get a steady 20% decline rate in the population."
She frowned in response, "How long do we have?"
"We have until 2 weeks before the food shortages make a significant impact. At the moment, we are distributing rations to delay the issue. But, we need to establish trade with the neighboring kingdoms or else our people will die of starvation or be forced to relocate."
Flame Princess looked down as she tried to process the situation. Suddenly, Finn spoke up, "Your majesty, my I offer a suggestion?"
"Go on."
Finn continued, "I have spoken with Princess Bubblegum of the Candy Kingdom and she has offered her assistance with the relief effort."
She breathed deeply, "It seems I have no other choice. I must set aside my personal differences with her and accept her aid. I cannot afford to lose more people while I have an opportunity to save them." She looked at her messenger, "Go forth and inform Princess Bubblegum that I am willing to discuss terms with her."
"Yes, your excellency." He bowed and then left the throne room.
Flame Princess turned over to Finn, "You sure this is a good idea?"
"Yes, as champion of Ooo's kingdoms I vouch for Princess Bubblegum on her behalf. I understand your uncertainty with her, but all she wants is peace. I can assure you that her ambitions for science are being kept in check. Besides, if you manage to reach an agreement, then you will also make it easier for your people to open more trade routes with the other kingdoms."
She nodded, "Alright, Finn. But just so you know, if I find out that she does anything I deem suspicious, I will not hesitate to take action against her."
Finn bowed, "I understand, your majesty."
A few hours later, Princess Bubblegum and Peppermint Butler arrived at the Fire Kingdom palace. They were escorted with 10 elite banana guards as they made their way to the council room. Once they entered, Flame Princess and her companions greeted them. After the formalities, the monarchs engaged in a lengthy discussion for an agreement.
A couple hours later, the two monarchs signed a treaty and then shook hands. Princess Bubblegum was the first to speak, "Thank you, Flame King (FP). Let us now usher a new era of peace and prosperity between our kingdoms."
"Likewise," Flame Princess said as she showed a strained smile.
Bubblegum and her escort departed the room moments later. After 3 days, the Candy Kingdom began sending food and supplies to the Fire Kingdom. Bubblegum already made most of the preparations ahead of time to deploy resources in quick succession. She was anticipating that Finn would successfully persuade Flame Princess to accept her offer so that war would not distract her from her pursuit of science. She smiled to herself as she spent more time at her personal lab.
Meanwhile, Finn and Flame Princess worked together to govern the Fire Kingdom. FP handled the politics with her people, while Finn acted as her bodyguard. The day was finally coming to a close as they began to leave the throne room.
Flame Princess stretched her back a little, "Phew, what a day. The lengths I go through for my people."
Finn also stretched himself and replied, "It's a natural burden for a ruler, but at least you have me beside you this time." He smiled as he touched her shoulder with one hand.
She returned her smile, "Yes, Finn. With you here, I don't feel as weary like I used to be those past years."
"I'm glad I could help," he said sincerely.
FP nodded, "Come on, let's hang out at my room so you can tell me more about your past stories."
He shrugged, "Sure, ok. I'm right behind you."
The two made their way back to Flame Princess's chambers. Once they arrived, Finn went to the bathroom to change into a clean blue shirt and shorts while discarding his cloak and mask. He also removed his elbow and knee pads. FP on the other hand changed her armor and settled for a simple red-orange dress. After they changed, they went to the living room and sat on the couch together.
"Comfy?" Flame Princess asked.
"Yeah, I'm used to sitting on Marceline's solid couch that I feel like I'll fall asleep right now," Finn yawned.
She pouted, "Aw come on, I want to hear more about your experiences. You promised me, remember?"
"I'll do my best, Flame." He paused for a moment, "Alright, let's see here... Ok, there was actually one time Ice King lost his powers and became Simon for a short while."
"Who's Simon?"
"He's like Marceline's father figure, a human like myself. The thing about him is that he's been around for at least 1000 years since the aftermath of the Mushroom War. He has been able to live longer than the average human because of that crown he currently wears." He frowned then continued, "Although the crown granted him immortality, he lost his mind and became the Ice King we all know today."
FP nodded and kept quiet.
Finn continued his story, "Anyway, this magical monster named Bella Noche took away IK's powers and Simon returned back to normal. However, without his powers, he began to age rapidly until death. He created a time portal to the past so he could apologize to his lover Betty Grof for losing her. But at the last second, she jumped through the portal into our time to show her love for him. When she noticed his accelerated aging, she was determined to restore Simon's powers."
"But... If she does that, then-"
"Betty knew that he would change back into his alter-ego. So after she defeated Bella Noche, she left to travel alone in hopes to find a way to free Simon from the crown. I felt heartbroken when I heard about it because it reminded me of us, about my determination to defy nature for you." Finn's eyes watered.
"Oh, Finn..." Flame Princess hugged to comfort him.
He wiped his tears away, "...It's ok, Flame. I was just a little shaken up. Anyway, I tried to help her obtain a solution but we still haven't found one yet. I'm really hoping we could find one soon because I'm already fed up with IK's tendency to kidnap princesses. But most importantly, I want to find a solution for her so she can share the same happiness we do now."
"I admire that, Finn. I believe you'll find the answer someday."
"Thanks, FP." The two smiled and shared a kiss.
They spent a couple more hours as Finn told her more about his experiences such as being a military instructor for the Lemongrab Kingdom. He explained to her that he trained its people after Lemonhope decided to live on his own freedom rather than be their protector. Then he told her about his canine brother Jake marrying Lady Rainicorn and that Finn became used to living alone.
"And then after that, I went through some daily patrols throughout the Ooo's kingdom's and eventually ended up here," Finn concluded.
"Geez, Finn. You sure went through a lot those last 4 years. I wish I could offer a story just as exciting, but sadly all I've done was govern my kingdom." FP showed a sad smile.
"It's interesting, Flame. I remember long ago when I used to think I had nothing more to lose after our last encounter..." He placed his hand on her face while brushing her cheek with his thumb, "But now, I have everything to live for."
Flame Princess giggled and blushed intensely, "Oh, Finn. You sure have a way with words." They kissed a couple times before breathing for air.
"Alright, let's go to sleep. Even though this couch is comfy, there's not much room to move around." Finn yawned.
They both got up and made their way to the bed. Finn laid on his back, while FP was curled up to his left side, resting her head on his chest.
Finn smirked, "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"
FP looked up at him, "Definitely, I've been to able to sleep better now that you're here. Don't tell me YOU'RE not enjoying it!" She pointed at his face for emphasis with a mock scowl.
He chuckled, "I would be the worst liar in history if I didn't. I love you, Flame."
She rolled her eyes, "Love you too, 'hero.' Goodnight." They gave each other one more kiss before sleep took over.