One morning in the mess hall of the castle in the Astral Plane that served as the base of operations for Corrin and his army, Takumi had gotten his plate of food to eat for breakfast and was looking for a place to sit down and eat it, when he noticed Elise sitting at a table by herself and poking at her food with her fork, so he decided to go over to her and see what was troubling her.
"Hello, Princess Elise", Takumi said.
"Oh, Takumi", Elise said, "hi there!"
"Is this seat taken", Takumi asked.
"Of course not", Elise said, "did you want to eat breakfast with me?"
"Only if you don't mind", Takumi said.
"No at all", Elise said, "please, sit."
Takumi took his seat next to Elise, and she went back to looking at her food oddly.
"Is something wrong", Takumi asked, "you don't look like you've eaten a bite of your food."
"I would, but I'm not sure what it is", Elise said, "it looks like an omelet, but it's bigger than any omelet I've ever eaten, and it's got this strange red sauce on it."
"Actually, it is a type of omelet", Takumi said, "it's a dish from Hoshido that we call omurice."
"Well that's a funny name for an omelet", Elise said, "no offense."
"None taken", Takumi said, "basically what it is is an omelet filled with fried rice and sometimes a kind of meat, which in this case, I believe is bacon."
"I guess that does sound kind of good", Elise said, "and what about this red sauce?"
"That's just a kind of tomato sauce we use in some of our meals", Takumi said, "it helps add a bit more flavor to the dish."
"Really", Elise asked, "that sounds nice."
"Go on, have a bite", Takumi said, "it's really good."
"Okay", Elise said, "here it goes."
Elise used her fork and knife to cut off a bite of her omurice and took a bite of it, and after chewing it up and swallowing it, she found that it tasted delicious.
"Wow, you were right, Takumi", Elise said, "that is good."
"I know, right", Takumi said, "I loved eating this when I was a kid."
"Nice", Elise said, "yeah, you Hoshidans sure know how to make a good breakfast."
"Thank you", Takumi said.
From another table, Xander was watching Takumi interact with his youngest sister, and as he did so, he couldn't help but do so with a disapproving look on his face, but he was soon interrupted by Camilla walking over to him.
"Hey there, Xander", Camilla said, "what you looking at?"
"Oh, hello, Camilla", Xander said, "I was just watching Elise talking with Prince Takumi over there."
"Oh, yeah", Hinoka said, "those two have really hit it off, haven't they?"
"Yes, they have", Xander said, "however, I feel that they may be hitting it too hard."
"What do you mean", Camilla asked.
"Although Hoshido is now our ally because of the war, I must admit that I am somewhat reluctant about Elise getting close to a Hoshidan prince such as Prince Takumi", Xander said, "it's too much too soon, if that makes any sense."
"Oh, lighten up, will you", Camilla said, "let the kids have their fun."
"I would", Xander said, "but I worry that those two might end up having too much fun."
"So what if they do", Camilla asked, "the Hoshidans aren't as bad as we thought they were."
"Maybe not", Xander said, "but I'd still feel more at ease if Elise didn't let herself get too close with Prince Takumi and his family."
"Oh, Xander", Camilla said.
At that moment, Ryoma walked over to Camilla.
"Excuse me, Camilla", Ryoma said, "may I talk to you in private for a moment, please?"
"Of course, Ryoma", Camilla said, "I'm sorry Xander, but it looks like Prince Ryoma wants to see me now."
"Very well", Xander said.
Camilla walked away with Ryoma, and Xander went back to looking at Takumi and Elise, who were now both playfully fork-feeding each other bites of their omurice servings, much to his annoyance.
"Who does that Prince Takumi think he is, trying to butter up my dear little sister like that", Xander said, "I know we all want peace between our nations, but I don't like how he's trying to achieve it one bit."
Later that day, Takumi was making his way down the castle halls, when he heard Elise call out to him.
"Hey, Takumi", Elise said.
"Oh, Princess Elise", Takumi said, "hello again."
"I'm having a tea party in my room", Elise said, "would you like to join me?"
"That depends", Takumi said, "is there enough room for me at your table?"
"Why, yes", Elise said, "Sir Tigerius couldn't make it to this tea party, but he encouraged me to save his seat for you in case you wanted to join us."
"In that case, I'd be happy to accept your invitation", Takumi said.
"Yay", Elise said, "come in, we're just getting started."
So, Takumi went inside Elise's room and sat down at her little tea table, which some of her stuffed animals were sitting around, and before long, the two of them were having a good time, sipping on imaginary tea and pretending to eat toy cakes and cookies laid out on the table.
"Takumi, could you pass the sugar, please", Elise said, "Mrs. Pigglesworth would like a couple more cubes in her tea."
"But of course", Takumi said, "coming right up."
Takumi passed Elise a cup of toy sugar cubes, and Elise placed two of them inside the cup belonging to Mrs. Pigglesworth, her stuffed pig.
"There you go", Elise said, "thank you, Takumi."
"My pleasure", Takumi said.
"Well, would you look at that", a familiar male voice said.
Takumi and Elise looked and saw none other than Corrin standing at the doorway.
"And to think that not too long ago, you two hated one another", Corrin said.
"Corrin", Takumi said, "what a surprise."
"Big Brother, hi", Elise said, "did you come to join us for tea?"
"Not this time, Elise", Corrin said, "I just heard you two talking and wanted to see what you were up to."
"Nothing much", Elise said, "as you can see, Takumi is joining me and my other guests for a little tea party."
"Is that right", Corrin asked, "I never took you for the kind of person who did stuff like that, Takumi."
"I don't normally", Takumi said, "but because Elise is such a good friend to me, I'm willing to make an exception for her."
Takumi's comment made Elise blush a little bit.
"I'm happy to hear that", Corrin said, "it pleases me greatly that my two families are growing closer together."
"And to think none of this would even be possible if you hadn't refused to choose between us all that time ago", Takumi said, "I guess there was a method to your madness after all."
"Yeah, I guess that's one way of looking at it", Corrin said, "well, I'd love to stay and chat, but I have to go visit the vendor about replenishing our supplies."
"Alright, then", Takumi said, "don't let us keep you."
"See you later", Elise said.
"You too", Corrin said.
Corrin went on his way, leaving Takumi and Elise to themselves once again.
"Now", Takumi said, "where were we?"
"Would you like a slice of cake", Elise asked, "it might look like chocolate, but it's actually red velvet."
"Why, thank you", Takumi said, "I'd love a slice."
Elsewhere, Corrin was making his way out the castle doors towards the vendor, when he was stopped by Xander.
"Halt, Corrin", Xander said.
"Big Brother", Corrin said, "what can I do for you?"
"I must speak to you about a matter of great importance", Xander said.
"Very well", Corrin said, "what is it?"
"It's about my siblings and the Hoshidan royal family", Xander said, "I feel that they are starting to become too intimate for my liking."
"I don't see how that's such an issue", Corrin said, "are we not trying to create peace between yours and Ryoma's kingdoms?"
"We are", Xander said, "but I believe that could be done in a more diplomatic manner."
"There's nothing wrong with a bit of friendship between your families", Corrin said, "I mean, don't you and Hinoka have a little friendship of your own that you've got going on?"
"In a way, yes", Xander said, "but..."
"Then I don't see what all the fuss is about", Corrin said, "just let your siblings make friends with Ryoma and his siblings, and try not to think too much about it, okay?"
"Alright, then", Xander said, "I suppose I can try and follow your advice."
"Wonderful", Corrin said, "now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to pay a visit to the vendor."
Corrin went back on his way, and Xander, despite being told not to worry by Corrin, still couldn't help but feel doubtful about the idea of his siblings forming close bonds with the Hoshidans.
"I'm still not sure that my siblings should be getting close with the Hoshidans when we've only been allies for only a short period of time", Xander said, "I think perhaps it's best that I keep my eyes on them, especially Prince Takumi."
A little later, Takumi was teaching Elise how to play the Hoshidan game known as Shogi, neither of them noticing Xander discreetly watching them from atop a pile of crates.
"I know you said once that Shogi was similar to Chess, but I can't help but notice one key difference between the two", Elise said, "Shogi is way more complicated."
"Just relax, alright", Takumi said, "stay calm, and try to focus on the game."
Elise closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
"Okay", Elise said, "let's do it."
"That's the spirit", Takumi said.
Takumi and Elise continued on with their game, and although Elise still struggled to grasp it, Takumi was there to give her advice when she needed it, and before long, the two of them were nearing the end of their game, with Elise making her move and taking away some of Takumi's remaining pieces, leaving only his king piece on the board, and since he couldn't see any way he could defend his king from Elise, he knew that he had lost.
"Well, I guess that's it", Takumi said, "you win."
"I do", Elise asked.
"Yes", Takumi said, "usually in Shogi, the game ends when there's no way a player can save their king, which is sadly the case for me right now."
"Wow, I can't believe it", Elise said, "I actually won!"
"Yes", Takumi said, "congratulations."
"Yay", Elise said.
The two of them got up from their seats, and Takumi held out his hand for Elise to shake, but instead found himself being hugged by her, much to his and Xander's surprise, but he soon hugged her back and smiled happily, which Xander also hadn't failed to take note of, and after a minute, the two of them separated.
"I love spending time with you, Takumi", Elise said, "you're so much more fun than I thought you were."
"Really", Takumi asked.
"Sure", Elise said, "you may come off as some grumpy, moody prince, but you're actually a really kind person."
Takumi went a little red in the face hearing that.
"R-Really", Takumi asked, "you think I'm kind?"
"Well, duh", Elise said, "why do you sound so surprised?"
"It's just that no one's ever said anything like that to me before", Takumi said.
"Maybe because they haven't gotten to know the real you like I have", Elise said, "if you acted more like you do with me when you're with other people, maybe they'd see that."
"I suppose I can see some sense in your advice", Takumi said, "I'll keep an open mind to it as best I can."
"I promise you, you won't regret it", Elise said, "if everyone knew how much of a kind heart you have underneath that moody exterior of yours, you'd be beloved by the people of not only your kingdom, but maybe mine as well."
"I-I guess that would nice", Takumi said, "it might help build healthy relations between our nations."
"Oh, yeah", Elise said, "between our nations."
As the two young royals looked at each other, they couldn't help but feel certain emotions towards one another, with Xander realizing what those emotions must be and becoming quite unhappy.
"Well, I should probably be going now", Takumi said, "maybe we can do something together again later."
"Okay", Elise said, "see you around, then."
"You too", Takumi said.
Takumi and Elise went their separate ways, and Xander watched them leave feeling more angry than ever.
"I might have been willing to consider allowing those two become friends, but it's clear that Prince Takumi isn't wanting to settle for a simple friendship with Elise", Xander said, "I think the time has come for me to intervene."
Xander began to get up from his hiding spot, but upon doing so, the pile of crates began to wobble, and then came crashing down, taking Xander with them.
"Ow", Xander said.
That evening in the mess hall, Takumi was sitting at a table with his dinner on his plate in front of him, but wasn't eating any of it, for he was too busy thinking about Elise and what she had said to him earlier.
"I always try to avoid being too cold with other people, but for someone to actually call me kind", Takumi said, "I never thought I'd hear anyone say something like that to me."
At that moment, Hinoka walked over to where he was sitting.
"Hey, little brother", Hinoka said, "you doing okay?"
"What", Takumi asked, "oh, hello Hinoka, I'm doing just fine."
"You haven't touched your food", Hinoka said, "I thought you liked what they were serving for dinner."
"It's not that", Takumi said, "I've just got a lot on my mind right now."
"Like what", Hinoka asked.
"I'd rather not say", Takumi said.
"Oh come on, you can tell me what it is", Hinoka said, "I mean, I am your older sister, after all."
Takumi still felt hesitant despite Hinoka's statement, but after contemplating to himself for a moment, he decided to open up to her.
"Okay, I'll tell you", Takumi said, "it's about this girl."
"A girl, huh", Hinoka asked, "I never thought I'd see the day you showed interest in anything involving a girl."
She then proceeded to sit down next to Takumi.
"Well, don't keep me in suspense", Hinoka said, "who's the lucky lady?"
"It's Princess Elise", Takumi said.
"Princess Elise", Hinoka asked, "as in the Princess Elise from Nohr?"
"I know, I know", Takumi said, "someone like her is probably the last person you'd expect me to be interested in."
"Well, I wouldn't say that", Hinoka said.
"It's alright, you can", Takumi said, "to tell you the truth, I find it a little hard to believe myself."
He then proceeded to go into detail about how he and Elise had managed to grow close to one another ever since he met her after she joined the army back at Port Dia, and that as of recently, he had begun to feel differently about her than he did before.
"I just feel like there's some kind of connection between me and Elise now", Takumi said, "like, something more than friends or comrades."
Hinoka couldn't help but burst into laughter at what Takumi had said.
"I should have known you'd find all this to be some big joke", Takumi said, "this is why I don't tell you guys stuff."
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to laugh", Hinoka said, "I just think it's funny that you don't see what's happening here."
"And what would that be", Takumi asked.
"You're in love", Hinoka said.
Takumi could hardly believe what he had just heard.
"I'm what", Takumi asked.
"Don't you see, you're in love with Princess Elise", Hinoka said, "it's clear as day."
"Well, love is a strong word", Takumi said, "but..."
Hinoka gave Takumi a look that said she wasn't buying what he was saying, and at last, he came clean.
"Okay, fine, I am in love with her", Takumi said, "are you happy?"
"You bet I am", Hinoka said.
"I want to tell her how I feel, but I'm just not sure if I can do it", Takumi said.
"Aw, don't worry", Hinoka said, "if you two are as close to one another as you say you are, I'm sure she'll feel the same way too."
"You think so", Takumi asked.
"Sure", Hinoka said, "I might not be the most feminine princess here, but I still know a thing or two about romance."
"Okay", Takumi said, "I guess I could give it a try."
"That's the spirit, Takumi", Hinoka said, "best of luck to you."
"Thanks", Takumi said.
Hinoka got up from her seat and went to go get some dinner, and when she got in line, she found that she was right behind none other than Xander, who had seen hers and Takumi's exchange.
"What was that all about", Xander asked.
"Takumi was just telling me that he's in love", Hinoka said.
"That's nice", Xander said, "with who?"
"Princess Elise", Hinoka said.
"Ah, Princess Elise", Xander said, "well, that's..."
He then realized whose name Hinoka had said and dropped his tray of food.
"Wait, what", Xander asked, "did you say Elise?"
"That's right", Hinoka said, "my little brother and your little sister are in love."
Xander faked his best smile as he spoke to Hinoka through his gritted teeth.
"You don't say", Xander said.
"Isn't this exciting", Hinoka asked.
"Yes", Xander said, "very."
But secretly, Xander was anything but excited about Takumi being in love with Elise, and as he looked at the Hoshidan prince, who was now happily eating his dinner, he became more determined to prevent him and Elise from getting too close.
"Okay, it's definitely time for me to intervene", Xander thought, "I'm going to make sure Prince Takumi stays away from my sister if it's the last thing I do."
The next day, Takumi was in his room reciting his confession that he had planned out for Elise.
"Princess Elise, there's something I need to tell you right now", Takumi said, "I know that we've only been allies for a somewhat short period of time, and before then, our families were pretty much at each other's throats, but in the time we've spent together, I've come to realize something: I love you, a lot."
He then took a breath.
"How was that", Takumi asked.
It was then revealed that he wasn't confessing to Elise, but rather practicing his confession with Sakura.
"Well, it was better than your last confession, but worse than your first one", Sakura said.
"Wow", Takumi said, "and people say I'm brutal."
"I'm sorry, Big Brother", Sakura said.
"No, no, it's okay", Takumi said, "I just want to make sure I do this right, is all."
"If you want to do it right, just tell her your true feelings", Sakura said, "don't worry too much about how you tell her."
"Yeah, but what if I do it wrong", Takumi asked.
"When it comes to love, there is no wrong way to express your feelings", Sakura said, "you just need to take a chance and hope it all goes well."
"And if it doesn't", Takumi asked.
"That's not going happen", Sakura said, "because if I know Elise, she'd be happy to have you as her lover."
"Thanks, Sakura", Takumi said, "hearing that does make me feel a little bit better about this."
"My pleasure", Sakura said, "now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go and attend a war meeting."
Takumi couldn't help but feel surprised hearing that.
"A war meeting", Takumi asked, "I didn't think you were interested in that kind of stuff."
"I'm not usually", Sakura said, "but as of late, I've been assisting with them because Prince Leo has found my desire to help keep everyone alive to be useful when planning out our battles."
"Prince Leo, huh", Takumi said, "looks like I'm not the only prince here who's taken a shine to someone from his opposite kingdom."
"Oh, no", Sakura said, "it's not like that."
But Takumi's comment still made her blush.
"Anywho, I must be going now", Sakura said, "I hope everything goes well between you and Elise."
"Thanks", Takumi said, "I hope so too."
Sakura walked out of Takumi's room, and Takumi stood up and made his way into the hallway full of courage.
"Alright, here we go", Takumi said, "it's time to profess my love for Princess Elise."
But little did he know that Xander had other plans.
"Oh, we'll just see about that", Xander said.
Takumi walked down the halls to Elise's bedroom and was about to knock on her door, when Xander walked over to him.
"Prince Takumi, hello", Xander said.
"Oh, Prince Xander", Takumi said, "hello there."
"Paying my dear youngest sister a visit, are you", Xander asked.
"Yes, actually", Takumi said, "I wanted to talk to her about something very important."
"But of course", Xander said, "matters of the heart do tend to have some degree of urgency."
"Well", Takumi said, "I..."
"You don't have to hide anything", Xander said, "Princess Hinoka told me everything."
"Oh", Takumi said, "she did?"
"She did", Xander said, "you wish to become lovers with Elise, do you not?"
"Yes, I do", Takumi said, "but only with your consent."
"Well, consider my consent given", Xander said.
"Really", Takumi asked.
"Yes", Xander said, "I commend you for wanting to make such a bold move."
"What do you mean by that", Takumi asked.
"Don't you realize", Xander asked, "you wish to be with a princess from a kingdom that has opposed yours for a very long time."
"I will admit, I was concerned about that prospect a little bit initially", Takumi said, "but..."
"And you had good reason to be concerned", Xander said, "there's no telling how the people of Hoshido would react to your lover being a princess of Nohr."
"I'm well aware that there will be those who disapprove of our relationship", Takumi said, "however..."
"Not just disapprove", Xander said, "after all our people have done to your country, I fear that they may do worse than that."
"Like what", Takumi said.
"They'd likely go through every length possible to show any dislike towards Elise as your partner", Xander said, "and I mean every length."
Takumi was starting to feel worried, but did his best to not let it show.
"Well, what if I choose to accompany her to Nohr", Takumi asked.
"More of the same", Xander said, "prejudices won't go away overnight, you know."
Takumi knew that there was some truth to Xander's words.
"Try to understand that I mean no ill will towards you", Xander said, "I am merely speaking from a place of concern."
"I-I understand", Takumi said.
"If you truly wish to pursue a romance with Elise, then I am in no position to get in between the two of you", Xander said, "I just wanted to make sure you knew all the risks to your love."
"Trust me, I know them very well", Takumi said.
"Right then, just wanted to be sure", Xander said, "now that that's done, I have some some pressing matters to attend to."
"Okay", Takumi said.
And with that, Xander walked away feeling confident about his scheme to stop Takumi and Elise's romance.
"That should do the trick", Xander thought, "if all of that doesn't dissuade Prince Takumi, nothing will."
Speaking of Takumi, he wasn't feeling very sure about telling Elise how he felt anymore thanks to Xander's words, and at that moment, Elise stepped out of her room and noticed Takumi standing there.
"Takumi", Elise asked.
Takumi was momentarily startled until he noticed Elise.
"Oh, Princess Elise", Takumi said, "it's you."
"I'm sorry", Elise said, "I didn't mean to startle you."
"No, it's okay", Takumi said, "you just caught me by surprise is all."
"Did you need something", Elise asked.
"No, I didn't", Takumi said, "I was just passing by."
"Oh, okay", Elise said.
"Now, if you don't mind, I need to go", Takumi said.
"Where", Elise asked.
"I have to go tighten the strings of my bow so that it's ready for when we next have to go to battle", Takumi said, "and I have to do it now, so bye."
Takumi quickly walked away, and Elise watched him leave in confusion.
"Huh", Elise said, "I wonder what that was all about."
Later that day, Takumi was at a table setting up the pieces for a game of Shogi with himself, when Elise noticed him.
"Playing some Shogi, Takumi", Elise asked, "I can be player two if you want."
Takumi didn't say anything and instead picked up the board and walked away.
"Oh", Elise said, "okay, then."
Later on, Elise was in her room having another tea party with her stuffed animals, when she noticed Takumi walking by.
"Hey, Takumi", Elise said, "we're having a tea party if you'd like to join us."
Takumi pretended he didn't hear Elise and just kept walking, leaving her disappointed once again.
"Oh, okay", Elise said, "well, more tea and cookies for the rest of us, I guess."
That night during dinner, Takumi was fixing his tray in the mess hall, when Elise walked over to him.
"Hey, Takumi", Elise said, "wanna sit and eat dinner together?"
Takumi finished fixing his tray and walked away while carrying it.
"I think I'll eat in my room tonight, if you don't mind", Takumi said.
And with that, Elise was left feeling sad and alone once again.
"Takumi", Elise said, "what's gotten into you?"
This went on for the next few days, with Elise trying to get Takumi's attention only to seemingly get the cold shoulder from him, and one night, she was with Leo in his bedroom telling him all about what was going on.
"And whenever I try to be friendly, he just acts like I don't exist and goes his merry way", Elise said, "basically, he's acting like the jerk he originally seemed to be."
"Well, that's definitely peculiar", Leo said, "Takumi does have a tendency to be a bit cold towards others, but this is strange, even for him."
"I thought we were making great progress", Elise said, "does he not like me anymore?"
"I doubt that's the case", Leo said, "I've gotten to know him well enough to know that that's not something he'd readily do."
"Then why is he ignoring me so much all of a sudden", Elise asked.
"My theory is that something's bothering him", Leo said, "something that makes him nervous about being near you."
"Like what", Elise asked.
"I'm not sure", Leo said, "but whatever it is, it must be really serious."
"Well, I'm gonna find out what it is no matter what", Elise said, "then I'll let Takumi know that he doesn't need to be afraid of it."
"How are you going to do that", Leo asked.
"I'll just go up, knock on his door, and ask him what's bothering him", Elise said, "and if he tries to ignore me like he has been, I won't take no for an answer."
"That's a bold strategy, sister", Leo said, "I hope it works out for you."
"We'll find out for sure soon enough", Elise said, "thanks for talking with me, Leo."
"You're welcome", Leo said.
Elise got up from her seat and walked out of Leo's room, and after she left, Leo got up and left the room as well.
"I wonder where Sakura could be at this time of night", Leo said.
Meanwhile, in Takumi's room, the Hoshidan prince was trying to get some sleep, but was having trouble doing so due to a nightmare he was having.
"No, no", Takumi said, "stay back."
Nightmare Sequence
Takumi and Elise were running hand-in hand as fast as their legs could carry them, both of them full of fear.
"Takumi", Elise said.
"Don't look back, Elise", Takumi said, "just keep running."
They were running from an angry mob of Hoshidan citizens, who were all angry about the very thing Xander said they'd be mad at.
"There she is", a citizen said, "that insidious Nohrian scum!"
"And with her, the traitorous prince who calls her his lover", another citizen said.
"After them", a third citizen said.
Takumi and Elise kept on running from the mob, when suddenly, Elise fell down.
"Elise", Takumi said.
One of the heels on Elise's boots had broken off, which had caused her to fall, and Takumi quickly rushed over to her side.
"Takumi", Elise said.
"Hang on, I'll get you out of here", Takumi said.
"Forget about me", Elise said, "just get out of here while you still can."
"No, I'm not leaving you", Takumi said.
Just then, he was hit by an arrow in the shoulder, causing him to fall to the ground, and he and Elise looked back in horror to see the mob closing in on them.
"Besides", Takumi said, "I might not have much of a choice."
The mob surrounded Takumi and Elise, and the two lovers held each other in fear, but were soon separated when some members of the mob grabbed Elise and pulled her away from Takumi.
"Elise", Takumi said.
Elise tried to escape from the citizens' grasp, but to no avail.
"Stop, let me go", Elise said, "Takumi!"
But her pleas fell on deaf ears as the citizens carried her away, with Takumi watching them do so with horror and sadness, and after she was out of sight, he looked to see several citizens approaching him with all kinds of weapons in their hands, and as they got closer to him, he shielded his face, preparing himself for what was to come.
End Nightmare Sequence
Fortunately though, what Takumi thought was to come never came, and he woke up with a jolt, breathing heavily.
"Thank goodness that was only a nightmare", Takumi said, "but I fear what would happen if it ever came true."
He then heard a knock on his door.
"Who is it", Takumi asked.
"It's me, Elise", Elise said.
"Elise", Takumi asked.
"Yes", Elise said, "I want to talk to you."
"Sorry", Takumi said, "I'm in the middle of something very important right now."
"Oh no, I'm not falling for that one", Elise said.
"No really, I am", Takumi said.
"Yeah right, and I'm queen of the entire continent", Elise said, "Takumi, you better let me in now, or I'm coming in there myself."
Takumi knew that he couldn't run and hide from Elise forever, so he walked up to his bedroom door and opened it, and Elise walked inside.
"Good evening, Princess Elise", Takumi said, "what can I do for you on this fine..."
"Cut the small talk, Takumi", Elise said, "I want answers."
"Answers", Takumi asked, "to what?"
"To why you've been avoiding me these past few days", Elise said.
"Avoiding you", Takumi asked, "I don't know what you're talking about."
"You're lying", Elise said, "you are avoiding me, I know it."
Takumi looked into Elise's eyes and saw that they were full of hurt and sadness, and after a moment of hesitation, he finally let out a sigh.
"Okay, you're right", Takumi said, "as of late, I have been keeping some distance from you."
"I knew it", Elise said, "but now comes my question once again: why?"
"Because we cannot be together", Takumi said, "no matter how badly I want us to."
"What's that supposed to mean", Elise asked.
Feeling like he had nothing else to lose, Takumi gathered up all his courage from before and told Elise what he had wanted to tell her then.
"Princess Elise", Takumi said, "I love you."
Elise's cheeks went red upon hearing this revelation.
"Y-You do", Elise asked.
"Yes, with every ounce of my being", Takumi said, "I wanted to tell you this before, but I feared what the repercussions of our love would be."
He then told her all about his fears that people would not take kindly to their romance and would try to harm them because of it, or worse.
"Oh, Takumi", Elise said.
"I was so afraid of what might happen to you that I tried to stay away from you for your own good", Takumi said, "but the truth is, every second that we were apart was agonizing."
"You said it", Elise said, "especially because I feel the same way you do."
"T-Truly", Takumi asked.
"Of course", Elise said, "all you had to do was tell me how you felt."
"You're right, I should have just told you how I felt when I had the chance", Takumi said, "I was just so afraid of what might become of us if we became lovers that I ended up fleeing like a coward."
"Where did you even get all those ideas, anyways", Elise asked.
"Prince Xander", Takumi said, "he came up to me and warned me about what might happen if we became lovers."
"And you actually bought that crud", Elise asked, "he was obviously trying to keep us from getting together for whatever reason."
"I realize that now", Takumi said, "and I'm not going to take any more of his nonsense."
"What are you going to do", Elise asked.
"I'm going to march up to his room, knock on his door, and I'm going to tell him face-to-face that I love you and don't care what he or anyone else thinks", Takumi said, "it's what I should have told him when he came to talk on me."
"You'd do that for me", Elise asked.
"Not just for you", Takumi said, "for us."
Takumi placed his hand on Elise's cheek, causing her to smile.
"Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to confront your brother", Takumi said, "I'll see you when I'm finished."
"Okay", Elise said.
Takumi left to go see Xander, and once he was gone, Elise swooned as she thought about what Takumi was doing for her.
"Kind and courageous", Elise said, "I couldn't ask for a better man than Takumi."
Takumi marched down the hall towards Xander's room, and once he got there, he took a deep breath.
"Okay, just relax", Takumi said, "when he opens the door, greet him, address the issue, and then chew out his dirty lying face!"
Takumi rubbed his hands together and was about to knock on the door, when he heard some kind of noise from inside the room.
"Hm", Takumi asked, "what's all that about?"
He placed his ear on the door to try and hear it better, and as he did, he began to realize that the sound was two people kissing.
"Sounds like Prince Xander's having a romantic moment of his own with someone", Takumi said, "but who?"
Takumi pressed his ear against the door harder to hear it better, but the door wasn't closed all the way, and he ended up pushing it open and falling onto the floor.
"What's going on", Xander asked, "what is the meaning of this?"
Takumi quickly stood up on his feet.
"I'm terribly sorry, Prince Xander", Takumi said, "I didn't mean to intrude like this, I just..."
But when he looked at Xander, he saw him lying on his bed with none other than his (Takumi's) own sister, Hinoka, on top of him.
"Oh", Hinoka said, "hi, Takumi."
Takumi was becoming red in the face with anger upon seeing this.
"Um, I can explain", Xander said.
"Oh yeah, sure", Takumi said, "I'm sure you've got a whopper of an explanation for this total act of hypocrisy!"
"Hypocrisy", Hinoka asked, "what's he talking about?"
"Well", Xander said, "I..."
Just then, Elise walked over.
"Hey, Takumi", Elise said, "I know you probably wanted to do this alone, but I wanted to back you up, so I came here to try and..."
She then caught sight of Xander and Hinoka and became quite shocked by them.
"What in Nohr's name is going on here", Elise said.
"I'll tell you what's going on", Takumi said, "while Prince Xander's been trying to keep us from getting together, he's been cozying up to my older sister."
"What", Elise asked.
Elise looked at Xander with an angry look on her face.
"Now, Elise", Xander said, "all of this can be explained."
"What was all that about you not letting them get together", Hinoka asked.
"I can explain that as well", Xander said.
"Save it", Takumi said, "just wait until Ryoma hears about this."
"You're going to tell him about this", Xander asked.
"Yes", Takumi said, "and I'm also telling him about yours and Hinoka's secret romance."
All of a sudden, Hinoka wasn't so curious about Xander's act of trying to keep Takumi and Elise apart anymore.
"Oh shoot", Hinoka said, "this isn't good."
Takumi turned around and began talking towards Ryoma's room.
"Wait, Takumi, come back", Hinoka said, "we can talk about this!"
"Yes", Xander said, "we're all civilized members of royalty, are we not?"
Xander and Hinoka got out of bed and ran after Takumi with Elise following him, and when Takumi reached Ryoma's room, he knocked on his door.
"Ryoma, are you there", Takumi asked, "I've got something you're definitely gonna want to hear."
He then heard the sound of not just his older brother's voice, but also a familiar, seductive female voice.
"It's Takumi", Ryoma said, "we can't let him see us like this."
"I know", the female voice said, "quickly, we have to hurry."
Takumi listened as Ryoma and the other individual scurried across the room, then after a moment, he opened the door and went inside.
"What are you doing in here", Takumi asked.
His eyes widened when he saw Ryoma trying in vain to wash several black lipstick marks off his face and Camilla trying to get her bathrobe belt tied, and upon catching sight of him, they both smiled akwardly.
"Takumi", Ryoma said, "what a surprise."
"What brings you here", Camilla asked.
Takumi was still wrapping his head around having seen Xander and Hinoka displaying their love, and now he had to deal with seeing his older brother and Elise's older sister the way they were.
"What is happening here", Takumi asked.
It was then that the others caught up to him.
"At last, I've caught you", Xander said, "now, Takumi, I know you're upset, but I'm sure there's a way we can..."
He and the others then saw Ryoma and Camilla and became as equally shocked as Takumi was.
"Prince Ryoma", Xander said, "I'm very surprised at you."
"Have you been kissing my sister", Elise asked.
"It's not what it looks like", Ryoma said, "Camilla here got a new set of lipsticks, and she wanted someone to help her test them out, so, being the noble prince that I am, I thought maybe I'd..."
"Forget it, Ryoma", Camilla said, "we're busted."
"You're right", Ryoma said, "yes, I have been kissing her."
"Though, in this particular instance, I was technically the one doing the kissing", Camilla said.
"I don't see how that's any better", Elise said.
"Well, Xander, I guess our relationship isn't as much of a big deal anymore after all", Hinoka said.
"Relationship", Ryoma asked, "what relationship?"
Hinoka quickly put her hands over her mouth.
"You mean to say that you two were in a romantic relationship behind our backs", Ryoma asked.
"You and Camilla were too", Xander said.
"Touché", Ryoma said.
"Well, at least you didn't try to stop me and Elise from pursuing our relationship", Takumi said.
"What", Ryoma asked.
"That's right", Takumi said, "Prince Xander tried to keep me and Elise from becoming a couple by telling me a bunch of nonsense."
"He did what", Ryoma asked.
"Xander, how could you", Camilla asked.
"Please, please", Xander said, "if you'd let me explain, you'd know that I had good reason for doing this."
"Oh yeah, because there's always a good reason for making sure two people who love each other never hook up", Takumi said.
Before long, the conversation escalated into a big argument between the three couples, and nearby, Leo and Sakura were walking down the hallway hand in hand when they heard the commotion.
"Do you hear that", Leo asked.
"I do", Sakura said, "it sounds like an argument."
"Between multiple parties, no doubt", Leo said, "I think we better go and investigate."
"Good idea", Sakura said.
Back with the six royal siblings, they were still arguing over what they had all done, and Leo tried to get their attention.
"Hey", Leo said, "cut it out!"
But no one heard him.
"I said cut it out", Leo said.
Still, no one heard him, and Sakura decided to try her hand at breaking up the argument.
"Everybody quiet", Sakura shouted.
Everyone stopped arguing and looked at the normally timid Sakura, who had become timid once again.
"T-Thank you", Sakura said.
"Now, would someone mind explaining what's going on here", Leo asked.
"Gladly", Takumi said, "Prince Xander here has been trying to keep me and Elise from being together as a couple while he and Hinoka have been getting intimate with one another, and all the while, Ryoma's been in a secret relationship with Princess Camilla."
Leo and Sakura looked at each other awkwardly, then looked back at the group.
"Well, I for one am ashamed of you all", Leo said.
"As am I", Sakura said, "becoming lovers behind everyone's backs."
"It's disgraceful, that's what it is", Leo said, "how can you all sleep at night knowing that you commit such deplorable, dishonorable, acts of dishonesty and..."
But Leo couldn't continue talking with the way the others were looking at him, and at last, he and Sakura gave in to them.
"Alright, you broke us down", Leo said, "Sakura and I are in love too."
"Since when", Elise asked.
"Since the last war meeting", Sakura said.
"Sakura, you fell in love with my older brother and didn't tell me about it", Elise asked.
"Well, yes", Sakura said, "but..."
"I don't believe this", Elise said, "has the whole world gone mad?"
"What's all this noise about", a male voice asked.
Everyone turned around and saw Corrin standing behind them in his pajamas.
"What are you all doing", Corrin asked, "it's past curfew, you know."
"It's a long story, Corrin", Takumi said.
"Go ahead and share it", Corrin said, "we've got all night."
So, the royal siblings all took turns explaining to Corrin what the meaning of the disturbance was, with the ones who had been lying or hiding things also coming clean with him.
"So, yeah", Takumi said, "that's pretty much it."
"I take full responsibility for this mess", Xander said, "none of this would ever have happened if I hadn't tried to get in the way of Elise and Prince Takumi's love."
It was at that moment that Corrin began to laugh, much to the surprise of everyone.
"What's so funny", Elise asked.
"I'm sorry", Corrin said, "it's just that you guys aren't seeing the bigger picture here."
"What bigger picture", Leo asked.
"This", Corrin said, "you guys haven't been allies for a very long time, but in the time you have been together, you've managed to grow close enough to the point that some of you are already in romantic relationships."
"I don't follow", Hinoka asked.
"Don't you see", Corrin asked, "this is what I was hoping for: all of you forging bonds with one another that results in more than just peace between your two kingdoms."
"Huh", Ryoma said, "I never thought of it that way."
"When I first found myself allied with Nohr, a part of me hoped that we could become more than just allies", Sakura said, "and it looks like that's just what happened."
"Yes indeed", Corrin said, "you've all become one big happy family."
"No, we haven't", Xander said.
"What do you mean", Corrin asked.
"We're not happy", Xander said, "not all of us, anyways."
He looked in the direction of Takumi and Elise with a regretful look on his face.
"And I am entirely to blame for that", Xander said.
He then made his way over to the two lovers and cleared his throat.
"Takumi, Elise", Xander said.
"What do you want", Takumi asked, "do you have another reason why we shouldn't be together?"
"Not even close", Xander said, "I wish to apologize for my earlier behavior."
"You do", Elise asked.
"Yes", Xander said, "when I saw you two interacting, I felt that romance between our families was a bit much when we haven't even won the war yet, but now I realize that I was wrong to think that."
"Are you just saying that because I caught you with Hinoka in your bedroom", Takumi asked.
"No", Xander said, "after I realized I was in love with your sister, I began to rethink my stance on this whole matter, but couldn't bring myself to admit that I was wrong."
"Oh, Xander", Elise said.
"But now I am, and I accept that I have done you wrong with my actions", Xander said, "I only ask that you two can possibly forgive me for being such a fool."
"Oh, Xander, of course we forgive you", Elise said, "right, Takumi?"
Takumi was hesitant to forgive Xander and looked at him coldly, but after seeing how truly sorry Xander looked, he finally relented.
"Okay", Takumi said, "I guess I can forgive him."
"Thank you, Takumi", Xander said, "and to show that I meant every word of what I said, I grant you my consent to be with Elise for real."
"What about the rest of us", Camilla asked.
"Hm", Xander asked, "oh, yeah, you too."
"Same with me to all my siblings as well", Ryoma said.
Everyone felt happy hearing these news, but none of them were happier than Takumi and Elise.
"This is it, Takumi", Elise said, "finally, we can be together without anyone getting in our way!"
"You're right", Takumi said, "I don't think I've ever been this happy before."
The two of them looked at each other in their eyes, then after a second, they both leaned in and kissed each other on the lips, which everyone found to be very touching, and as Xander watched them with a smile on his face, Hinoka walked up next to him.
"There's the Prince Xander I fell in love with", Hinoka said.
Xander looked at Hinoka, and after staring into each other's eyes, they too leaned in for a kiss, and Ryoma and Camilla both watched as the happy couples shared their kisses.
"So, it looks like everyone's kissing now", Ryoma said, "I don't know if that means we should be kissing too, or..."
Ryoma was interrupted when Camilla grabbed him and pulled him in for a kiss, with him happily returning it, and after watching everyone else kiss, Leo and Sakura looked at each other and shrugged, then proceeded to kiss each other on the lips as well, and once everyone separated from their kisses, they all looked at each other happily.
"Welcome to the family, all of you", Xander said.
"Likewise", Ryoma said.
"My two families together as one family", Corrin said, "I don't think I could ask for anything better than this."
"Nor could we, Corrin", Xander said, "nor could we."
"Well, as touching as all of this was, it's time we were all heading off to bed now", Corrin said, "like I said before, it is past curfew."
"Right, of course", Xander said, "we'll take our leave now."
"Yes, indeed", Ryoma said, "goodnight, Prince Xander."
"Goodnight, brother", Xander said.
Ryoma smiled at Xander and walked away, with the other royals going their separate ways as well, and as Corrin made his way back to his room, he thought about the happy scene that he had bore witness to.
"To think my families have managed to come this far in such a short time", Corrin said, "it seems that peace between them is closer than I originally thought."
The following morning, Corrin was in the mess hall looking for a place to sit and eat his breakfast, when he heard a voice call out to him.
"Big Brother, over here", Elise said.
Corrin turned around and saw the royal siblings of Nohr and Hoshido all sitting down together at one long table.
"We saved you a seat", Elise said, "right here."
"Please, join us", Sakura said.
"Oh", Corrin said, "well, if you all insist."
Corrin made his way over to the table and sat down in the empty seat.
"So, what's all this about", Corrin asked.
"We decided that since we're now essentially one big family, we should all dine together at the same table", Ryoma said, "that way, we'll be able to build more camaraderie between us all."
"Indeed", Xander said, "being allies on the battlefield is one thing, but being close as a family is another."
"And we wanted to invite you to join us because you're part of our family too", Takumi said.
"Indeed", Camilla said, "even though you're not blood related to me or my siblings."
"You guys", Corrin said, "I don't know what to say."
"You don't have to say anything", Leo said.
"Yeah", Hinoka said, "instead, let's all chow down!"
Everyone at the table began eating their food, but before Corrin could take a bite of his, he noticed Reina walk into the mess hall and thought of something.
"Just a moment, you guys", Corrin said, "do you mind if I pull up an extra seat?"
"For who", Xander asked.
"I'll tell you who", Corrin said, "my..."
Corrin got up from his seat and walked away, then returned a few seconds later with Reina.
"Fiancé", Corrin said.
"Hello, everyone", Reina said.
Everyone could hardly believe what Corrin just said.
"You two are getting married", Elise asked.
"That's right", Corrin said.
"When did that happen", Hinoka asked.
"Not too long ago, actually", Corrin said.
"Why didn't you say anything", Ryoma asked.
"It never came up", Corrin said.
"Oh", Ryoma said, "I guess that's fair."
"Corrin told me last night that you're all basically a family now", Reina said, "I'm so happy for all of you."
"Thank you, Lady Reina", Xander said, "it pleases me to hear you say that."
"The pleasure is all mine, Prince Xander", Reina said.
"So, you and Reina, huh", Takumi asked, "tell me, how did that happen?"
"Well, it all started when I noticed that Reina had dropped her apron while she was on her way to do some chores", Corrin said.
As Corrin told his newly combined family the story of how he and Reina fell in love, Azura watched from nearby with a smile on her face.
"Thanks to Corrin, it would seem that Nohr and Hoshido have exceeded all hopes of them reaching peace", Azura said, "now we're one step closer to complete victory."