Archive of Our Own

There was much to be done after the war, that was for sure.

In an effort to ensure the future of Fodlan would remain peaceful, many knew despite the fact the war was won, their life had only just begun. There was much work to be done, however there numerous celebrations to be held as well, not only for the victory they had accomplished, but a coronation, a ceremony to welcome the newest archbishop, and surprisingly…

There were an endless number of weddings to be planned.

Without the threat of their lives being at stake hanging over their heads, many knights and soldiers were coming together to devout themselves to the ones they held dear. It surprised many to hear how common it was becoming for those who fought together to become engaged, but was it really all that surprising?

They hadn’t the time to court one-another yet had done so much more. They saw each other at their worst, sacrificing their well-being for each other, doing anything to ensure the other made it home alive. Would it not make sense to have a deeper bond simply because of battling together on the field? Love worked wonders no matter the circumstance, after all.

The Army of Garrg Mach and the King were the most surprising circumstances to the public.

Many of the generals announced their future spouse, while others took a more private approach and decided to actually attempt courting, but still announced their intention to those who questioned their actions.

Some couples that sprung forth from the war shocked some, but not many.  

Many wounded soldiers had looked upon the two women who stayed by their sides in the first aid tent, the head medic with a gentle voice and kind touch who prayed to the goddess every night, and the young bubbly best friend of hers who (would trip over a box of medical supplies on occasion) would sing sweet uplifting tunes as they slept. The two young women had always looked at each other with such affection that it melted even the coldest man’s heart, their love for one another giving them hope for a better future.

The announcement of Lady Von Martritz and Lady Dominic’s future wedding was hardly a surprise to those who had the pleasure of watching their love grow. Those who dare fought against such a union had surprisingly been rivaled against by one knight’s extremely vocal support, daring all those who opposed to take their complaints to him alone. His (oddly uncharacteristic) passionate proclamations of how “His daughter’s happiness shall be protected!” had caused the poor girl to nearly faint.

A similar story had occurred between the two most common chefs and undeniably powerful forces on the battlefield. No one would have thought the kind, generous young man who assisted in the dining hall could wield a bow just as efficiently as a kitchen knife. The opposite went towards the terrifying tall man from Duscur, where no one believed it when they saw him tending to flowers or aiding the other in the kitchen instead of sharpening his axe for future battles.

There had been a little bit of shock when Sir Duren and the King’s Vassal, Dedue, proclaimed their intentions to wed. Despite the backlash that had sprung from a small group of individuals, it never dared reach far due to the King’s immediate approval and blessings overshadowing such negativity. His dear friends’ happiness was absolute, and he would not hesitate to defend it with his life.

Not only this, but if they had any issues with this marriage, they would have to bring it up to the one who planned to officiate that very wedding and all those amongst the army. The new archbishop was not one to be trifled with, what with her having been the leading general in the war, and also with her right and left hands backing up her every word.

The archbishop was feared and yet adored by all, but the adoration from the people fell short at the devotion the king held for her. No one questioned it, not with the way the two would sneak away from war meetings to share hushed conversations, believing none had seen them when they spent peaceful nights looking at the stars together.

It was said when the king announced his engagement to the archbishop, she had run off to tell her father figure, a loud and oddly charming man who knew too many puns than any human being should, her right hand, a sophisticated man with an overprotective streak regarding his sister, and her left hand, the right hand’s sister who had only taken the position because of her close friendship with the archbishop.

Needless to say, the reactions were quite varied. Disregarding the king’s royal title and power, both men had given an interrogating and lecture so loud one would say it echoed throughout the halls of the church. Yet, the young woman had softened the blow, and simply requested the king give the archbishop a happy life.

Now who would officiate that wedding was a question that could only be answered when they set the date in the future.

It was almost exhausting with how all these proposals and intentions had sprung up in quick succession. The proposals had happened the very next day after the war had been won, backlash and approval being announced within only a few days, and now plans were being thrown around left and right.

It was happening so quickly it was giving Sylvain a headache.

He knew almost everyone else was planning to get married, what with the professor having accepted roughly 90% of the academy into her classroom within the short timeframe she had been given as a newly appointed professor. How she kept track of all of them, he’d never know.

He hadn’t thought to hunt down rumors or tales of his other ex-classmates turned soldier/general getting together with each other. Honestly, he’ll probably get an invitation at some point regardless of if he heard about it or not. Knowing his luck, he’d at least be close with one of the two in the relationship.

The only close friend he had asked around about and hadn’t been told to his face by one of the future grooms/brides, was Ingrid. He wouldn’t be surprised if she wanted to remain single and live her life as a knight at Dimitri’s side. He had already heard Dimitri offer the position to her anyway. It’d probably make her happy, although he could’ve sworn there was something about the way she looked at Dorothea…

Sylvain sighed, leaning back on his chair at the desk in his room at Garreg Mach. It hadn’t even been an entire week since the war ended, so many hadn’t taken the time to leave the monastery yet. His nerves were all over the place. There was an unopened letter from his father on the floor by his feet, purposely dropped roughly twenty minutes ago.

The letter itself should be the reason his left leg was shaking, bouncing up and down without end. It should be the reason why his eyes were closed in concentration, desperately trying to think of anything that would help him. It should be the reason why his hands were sweating, fiddling with a small velvety box in his hand.

His father trying to contact should be the reason for any panic, since it was probably to discuss his future position as Margrave Gautier and other nit-picky obligations he was supposed to be given soon.

But no.

That wasn’t the reason.

Out of all the rumors he had hunted down about his closest friends, he had heard absolutely nothing about Felix.

The only thing he was able to find was how Felix was now named Duke Fraldarius and how his sword skills hadn’t dulled at all despite the fact the war had ended. He stuck around Garreg Mach just to stay around them (even if he didn’t want to admit it) once the war was won, but instead of making grand proposals or whatever, he had decided to throw himself into future paperwork and discussions with the king and archbishop.

Knowing Felix, he would try to ride out the second he no longer had a believable excuse as to why he should stick around.

So yeah, the only things Sylvain could find out, without straight up questioning the guy, was that Felix accepted his title and the man was still a workaholic.

Which meant there was a chance Felix was single, or at least had rejected any who had proposed a courtship or marriage to him.

Sylvain’s leg bounced faster, squeezing the box even tighter as his mind kept spiraling into madness.

There was no denying the feeling that choked him every time he looked at his best friend. He knew the feeling all too well, never having experienced it himself (genuinely at least), but had seen it through his friends’ relationships and the romantic novels Ashe gave him in hopes of jarring him out of his philander phase when they were still just students.

Sylvain knew what he wanted to do, and he’d have to do it soon.

How many people had their eye on Felix? The exact moment he was given the title Duke Fradarius was probably the same moment in which people finally realized just how much of a catch he was. His best friend was gorgeous, his body absolutely sinful in the best way possible, never being able to notice how often bystanders would just stop and stare when he trained or let loose in battle. Sylvain lost count of the number of times he almost confessed in the training grounds when Felix knocked him on his ass during a spar.

Felix was brilliant too, surprisingly strategic, and analytical when it came to battle planning and possible scenarios on the battlefield. Even with how often he chided Ashe with reading, the man kept up to date with his studies and rarely failed a test. He even remembered how easily Felix had taken to Reason magic and had caused Lysithea of all people to stop and stare slack-jawed at the way his thoron absolutely decimated a training dummy.

Felix would deny it, but he was also incredibly kind and caring as a person. He hid it underneath a hard exterior, but no cold-hearted individual would smile secretly when noticing Annette singing to plants or Flayn gasping in awe whenever he had sliced through whatever she wanted to throw at him that given day. He even saw the oh-so-stoic-swordmaster beckon a kitten over to feed it some scraps from the dining hall, the expression so soft and vulnerable Sylvain just wanted to…

Sylvain placed the box down on the desk, his head dropping to the wood before groaning at the butterflies making a mess of his stomach.

Goddess, what in Fodlan’s name was he going to do?!

He knew what he had to ask. It was only a four-word sentence, no biggie, right?

He could do this no problem.

How would he do this though?

There was an endless list of methods to propose. Would Felix prefer a simple proposal? An over-the-top proposal? No, Felix would sooner kill him than say yes to something like that.

This wasn’t getting him anywhere…

Sylvain forced himself away from his desk, steadying his heart as he placed the ring in one of the desk drawers. He made a decision right then and there.

He was going to go get some advice.

When the four of them were kids, Sylvain remembered having to play babysitter a lot. He was never great at it, always more likely to encourage something exciting as opposed to something guaranteed to be safe. However, out of all the activities they had done together as children, one they never took the time to go through with was Fishing.

Which was why when Sylvain went to look for the newly crowned king and his closest (strictly platonic) female friend, he had paused in mild shock and amusement at seeing the two sitting at the edge of the small fishing pier Garreg Mach had.

The two were dressed lightly to accommodate the warm afternoon, a feeling of relief and gratitude filling Sylvain’s chest at seeing them so relaxed without even the smallest hint of armor on their shoulders. He snorted as he stepped closer to the two, noticing how poor Dimitri had begun to doze off.

“Careful, your majesty,” Sylvain called out playfully, “You’ll drop your pole if you slouch much more.”

Dimitri pouted as Ingrid covered her laugh with a fake cough, both turning their head to greet him.

“Ah, you are quite right,” Dimitri grumbled, “It appears that I lack the skills to fish properly.”

“You’ll get the hang of it, I promise,” Ingrid assured, allowing herself to be improper around her dear friend despite the weight that now laid on his shoulder as king, “Come to join us, Sylvain?”

“Nah, I just came to find you guys.” He walked closer to the edge of the peers, his nerves unwilling to allow him to relax and take a seat next to them.

“Is something wrong?” Ingrid questioned, her tone softening in concern.

“I guess you could say that,” Sylvain admitted, watching the boppers in the water wobble steadily. “I need some advice, probably more so from Dimitri.”

“Me?” Dimitri blinked, adjusting his grip on the pole with one hand to lean further back on the pier to properly face him, “I am not sure if I would be much help, but I will certainly try. What would you like to know?”

“How did you…” Sylvain trailed off, rubbing the back of his neck, “How did you uh…” He cleared his throat, lowering his voice to a barely audible whisper, “How’d you propose to the professor?”

Dimitri lost his grip on his fishing pole, his visible eye blown open as he stared at his friend. Ingrid lurched forward, managing to catch the pole before it fell into the water.

“I beg your pardon?” Dimitri finally said.

“I’m just wondering how you did it,” Sylvain tried to explain, “I know it wasn’t out in the open, we would’ve heard about it much faster if you did, but did you do it while having tea with her? Did you plan it out? Did you have to plan it? Or-”

“Slow down, Sylvain,” Ingrid suddenly interrupted, holding her free hand up, “I think his highness needs a moment.” She shook her head with an amused smile before looking back towards Sylvain, “This is quite a surprise though. I can scarcely believe you, of all people, would want to settle down.” She paused, her expression darkening, “This isn’t because of a request from your father, is it?”

“If it was, do you really think I’d want advice?” Sylvain laughed airlessly, “Don’t worry, it’s not. I just…” His heart tightened as he willed himself to speak, “I need to get this right.”

Ingrid’s expression softened, a proud smile forming on her face. She took a quick glance in Dimitri’s direction, noticing how their poor friend was still in mild shock. She laid the pole beside her before standing.

“You’ve found someone?” Ingrid whispered in awe, “Truly?”

“Yes, I have.” Sylvain nodded, knowing his face was probably reddening with every passing moment.

“Do I know her?” Ingrid questioned, her voice peeking with excitement. Despite her attempts at hiding it, she’d always been a hopeless romantic.

Sylvain had to restrain himself from grinning at the comment. No one except maybe Flayn (Who thought he went for anything and anyone regardless of whether it be a chicken or a person) had an idea about his sexuality.

“It’s a surprise,” He winked playfully, “You’ll find out soon enough, don’t you worry.”

“Oh, is that so?” She said, crossing her arms, “By the sounds of it, you don’t even know how you’re going to propose.” She grinned smugly as Sylvain immediately looked away, “It’d be easier for you to just admit who it is. How are we to be any help if you don’t tell us?”

“To be clear I was asking Dimitri.”

“Right, you were…” The king finally spoke, blinking for the first time in five minutes, “You were asking me, about proposals…” He paused again, “I admit, I’m at a loss. That’s not to say I never thought you would. It gladdens me to hear you are thinking of such things. I just simply-”

“No, I get it, trust me,” Sylvain couldn’t even get mad at the reaction, especially since it was little funny, “I don’t have the best reputation after all.”

“I hope whoever this is won’t mind that.”

Oh, Felix minded plenty.

Ingrid would lecture him the most, sure, but Felix would do it when they were in the training grounds together and he used the irritation towards Sylvain’s womanizing against him or as ammunition for when he wanted to be left alone or they got into an argument.

“Well, come on then, your majesty,” Sylvain urged, “Share with the class how you managed to get Professor to say ‘yes’.”

“I’m sorry to say I’ll have to disappoint you,” Dimitri said, blushing lightly, “We had simply met at the Goddess Tower and I proposed, or I guess we both proposed.”

“Huh?”

“If it means anything, I did ask first,” Dimitri added, “She just had a ring too.”

Sylvain shifted himself on his feet, leaning a little to the left to try to catch a glimpse of Dimitri’s hand, searching for a special looking piece of jewelry. Sure enough, there was a beautiful lavender colored ring with numerous gemstones in an elegant pattern.

“Oh wow,” Sylvain tilted his head to the other side, noting how it shined in the sun’s gleam, “That’s quite the piece there.”

“It is, isn’t it?” Dimitri regarded it with a look Sylvain could only describe as ‘smitten’, “I will forever treasure it.”

“I agree,” Ingrid leaned over Dimitri’s shoulder to better look at it, “It’s beautiful.” She stood up straight before addressing Sylvain, “Have you bought one for her yet?”

“What?”

“A ring?”

“Of course, I have!” Sylvain huffed. He had spent a whole two days trying to decide on what would be the perfect ring for Felix, not wanting something too gaudy, but not wanting something that looked cheap. He needed a ring that completed Felix. He knew Felix probably wouldn’t wear it. He’d probably wear it as a necklace or at least keep it hidden so it wouldn’t be hurt in combat. Not that they’d needed to fight anymore, but he couldn’t imagine Felix wanting to stop training. He’d probably claim the misuse would make his sword rust.

“Just making sure,” Ingrid shrugged, crossing her arms, “So did Dimitri help at all?”

“Honestly?” Sylvain glanced between his two dear, beloved, amazing childhood friends who meant the world to him, “Not really.”

“I apologize,” Dimitri bowed his head, pained at being unable to aid his friend’s situation.

“What works for Dimitri might not work for who you’re asking,” Ingrid propped her face on her fist in thought, “How are you wanting to do this exactly?”

“I don’t know,” Sylvain groaned, running a hand through his hair, “A part of me wanted to just propose at the Goddess Tower, you know for the whole ‘pledging’ legend behind it, but that won’t work. He doesn’t believe in that kind of thing. He told me himself he thinks the whole Goddess Tower thing is childish.”

Dimitri’s expression shifted back into his previous one, unblinking and staring widely at Sylvain. Ingrid shifted her weight between her feet, eyebrows shooting up before collecting herself and steeling her expression.

“Is that so?”

“I need something that will thrill him, you know?” Sylvain continued unknowingly, “I want to, goddess I don’t know, blow his mind in a way that won’t make him immediately turn me down. I just don’t know how to do it.” He stopped, breathing in before narrowing his eyes at Dimitri. “Something wrong?”

“Nothing!” Ingrid interjected, placing herself in front of Dimitri to block Sylvain, “It’s nothing! Maybe Ashe could help? He does read a lot of novels, so there’s probably a chance he’s read a romantic one.”

That wasn’t a terrible idea.

Ashe had given him romance novels in the past, so it’d only make sense he’d possibly had read plenty different ways to propose marriage.

That and the sniper himself had gotten engaged too. He never did find out who proposed to who in that regard either…

“That doesn’t sound like a bad idea,” Sylvain mused, his foot beginning to tap, his nerves crawling back up to the surface, “Any idea where he’d be?”

“I believe I saw him with Dedue in the dining hall.”

“Great! Thanks, Ingrid.” He gave a small salute with a wink before turning on his heel and definitely not running towards the dining hall.

Ingrid watched him leave, lifting her hand in a small wave before glancing behind herself towards Dimitri.

Dimitri blinked up at her.

“Do you think he’s going to ask…?” Dimitri trailed off, gesturing towards Sylvain’s retreating form with a nod.

“Goddess help him if he is,” Ingrid responded, lowering her hand. She turned back to the pier, reaching down to grab hold of the fishing pole before handing it back to Dimitri.

She let out a disbelieving laugh, smiling.

“He knows Felix hates surprises.”

With the war being over, people were able to leisurely enjoy their meals and have slightly bigger portions. Many even decided to simply use the dining hall as a place of relaxation instead of just for eating a meal. Not that it was much different from when they were younger, he could remember seeing Annette and Lysithea eat while studying. Not to mention how many times students would fall asleep at the table during exam week. It was surprising how much could change in just a few days.

Dedue and Ashe usually spent more time in the kitchen than sitting down enjoying the meals they helped create. Today however, they were seated near the back of the dining hall, wrapped up in their own little world as they talked over their meal.

Sylvain spotted them almost instantly, what with Dedue’s physique being the largest out of anyone he’s ever met. His heart melted as Dedue reached over with a napkin to Ashe’s cheek, causing the younger to blush under the gentle care.

Sylvain couldn’t imagine Felix letting him do such a gesture. He’d done it against the other’s will when they were kids, sometimes being allowed to stay for dinner when he went to visit the Fraldarius household. It was a simpler time, blissfully unaware of how warm he felt in Felix’s presence.

“Careful there,” Sylvain said as he approached their table, “Might make all of us single people jealous if you keep that up.”

“Sylvain!” Ashe exclaimed, cheeks reddening, “I’m sorry, I didn’t-”

“Oh, come on, I’m kidding,” Sylvain sat across from the two, crossing his arms over the table, “I’m glad to see you two happy. Really, you deserve it.”

“Thank you,” Dedue smiled, it was a good look on him, before regarding Sylvain with a curious glance, “Is there something wrong?”

“What? I can’t just come by and say hi to my friends?”

“You normally do not seek me out unless you are in need of something.”

“Well, that’s not very nice.”

“You two,” Ashe sighed fondly, shaking his head, “I am curious though. You look, forgive me for saying so, a bit frazzled.”

“That’s one way of putting it.” Ashe was book smart, sure, but he knew how to read a person well too. Not to mention, his street smarts were almost on par with Yuri’s too. Sylvain remembered the strategies discussed between the two, always lingering between the lines of being in awe or terrified of one day angering one of them. “Yeah, you’re right. I was wondering if you two could give me some advice on something.”

“What is it?” Dedue pushed his stew to the side, giving his full attention to him.

“It’s, goddess this is awkward,” Sylvain ran his hand down his face, already feeling the anxiety and panic swirl in his gut again, before gesturing between them, “Can I ask who proposed between you two?”

“I did,” Dedue stated as Ashe’s face flared once again, “I proposed at the goddess tower.”

“Of course, it was at the goddess tower,” Sylvain mumbled.

“Is there a problem?”

“No, no. It’s just,” Sylvain sighed deeply, “The goddess tower won’t work.”

“Work for what?” Ashe asked, before his eyes suddenly widened, glimmering in excitement, “Wait, Sylvain, are you-?!”

“Shh!” Sylvain shushed through gritted teeth, taking a quick look around the dining hall. He knew Felix wasn’t in there at that moment, but he didn’t want people to start more rumors if they heard Sylvain was planning to propose to someone. He already had a bad enough reputation to begin with.  

Ashe shut his mouth instantly, joining Sylvain in looking around the room to ensure no one was listening too closely. “Sorry,” He whispered before bringing his voice back up to normal volume, “I’m just so proud of you, Sylvain.”

“Proud?”

“You know, for wanting to…” Ashe gestured with his left hand, showing off a modest, but beautifully crafted ring, “It makes me happy to know you’ve finally found someone you cherish.”

“I agree,” Dedue gently took hold of Ashe’s hand, his voice dripping with undeniable love and adoration, “Did you come to ask for proposal advice?”

“Yup, you got it,” Sylvain responded, “The goddess tower is fine and all, but it won’t work in my case.”

Ashe dropped his voice back to a whisper, “Well, who is it?”

“It’s a surprise,” Sylvain whispered back.

“If you say so,” Ashe pouted, “Do you know what you’re going to say? The location is important, sure, but the words are what matter.”

“Uh.” Sylvain hadn’t gotten that far yet. He knew roughly what he wanted to say, but he was trying to take it a few steps at a time before jumping to that. Goddess knows he’d probably have to practice it a few times. He’d asked women out on dates, but he’d never proposed marriage before.

Dedue chuckled, “Perhaps it would be wise for you to decide on your wording first.”

“Okay…” Sylvain tapped a hand absentmindedly on the table, knee bouncing anxiously, “Do I just say it? Or do I add something to it? Like…” He forced himself to stop tapping, “How did you do it?”

“I had requested Ashe join me at the goddess tower and said,” Dedue met Ashe’s eye with an almost sly smile, “I have come to ask for your hand in marriage. I adore you,” He continued on, rubbing his thumb over Ashe’s knuckles, “I understand that, due to being the head of House Gaspard, you cannot take marriage lightly. But even in the face of rejection, I cannot leave these words unspoken.” He leaned closer towards Ashe, voice lowering, “May I have your answer?”

Ashe couldn’t have gotten any redder, turning his head to the side shyly, “I uh…” He laughed nervously, “I wasn’t expecting to um…”

“You’re gonna leave a man hanging like that, Ashe?” Sylvain teased, ignoring the small tinge of envy in his heart. Dedue made it look so easy.

“What? No! I-!” He sighed, hesitantly turning back towards Dedue, “I…I accept.”

Dedue pressed a kiss on his fiance’s cheek, “Thank you.”

“That’s not what you said,” Ashe said lightly.

“You want me to continue?”

“No need. I got the answer I wanted,” Sylvain interrupted, not wanting to intrude on them any longer, “That actually helped a little.” Or more so reminded him that he needed to say the right words and hopefully make Felix look just as flustered, if not more.

“I’m glad,” Ashe breathed out, his blush from earlier slowly fading, “But what Dedue said is how he felt. You should make it your own, make it something unique that only you can say.”

“I know, I know,” Sylvain propped his elbow up, lowering his chin in his palm, “I need to say something that guarantees I’m the one he chooses, no matter what.” He closed his eyes in thought, unable to witness Ashe’s eyes widen and Dedue’s small knowing smile. “If the words I say don’t sweep him off his feet, it won’t mean anything.”

“You’re going to have to try hard,” Ashe managed out, attempting to be rid of his shocked expression, “You’ve got quite the reputation to go against, after all.”

“You’re right,” Sylvain opened his eyes, “I’m just…” His knee started moving finally, reminding himself to breathe, “I want…no, I need to give him what he deserves, and he deserves a serious proposal. I can’t mess this up.”

“Perhaps it would be wise to ask another person,” Dedue suggested, “I heard Mercedes proposed to Annette. She may be of assistance to you.”

“They did get engaged, didn’t they?” Ashe said, “I’m so glad. I bet that wasn’t a surprise to anyone.”

Mercedes, huh?

She did treat Felix like a little brother and there was no denying the two formed a deep connection. If Sylvain went to find her, he might have some luck in finding Annette too. Annette was arguably one of the few bubbly girls he knew that was able to see past Felix’s rough exterior. He could remember how grateful he had been when she had sung to Felix as he slept in the infirmary after a battle.

“Oh, but Sylvain-” Ashe tried, his words dying as the lancer stood up, giving them a silent wave in thanks before rushing out of the dining hall. He sighed, looking down to his (probably cold) stew, “I just wanted to tell him that all he needed to do was be honest.”

“Yes,” Dedue grabbed for his own food that he had pushed away, “Felix would prefer an honest proposal over a surprising one.”

Ashe couldn’t help chuckling to himself, leaning over to lay his head on Dedue’s shoulder. “I think it’ll be okay. No matter how hard he tries to deny it, Felix always had a soft spot for him.”

Sylvain first checked the library, remembering how much Annette liked to read and since they had the time, it wouldn’t surprise him to find her there. Sadly, she wasn’t there and so he had run to the infirmary, only able to see a few soldiers who were still recovering from the final battle. Even if it was over, it was still a fight that would probably haunt many people’s nights for years to come, himself included.

The last place he checked honestly should’ve been the first place. Of course, the two girls would be at the cathedral, both aiding in continuing to clear rubble and dust off the stone floors and directing where others should go. It looked better than it had when they first took back Garreg Mach. He had been assigned to help occasionally by the professor, but he was usually put on stable duty.

Mercedes had taken a broom in hand, brushing small shards or pebbles into a pile while Annette was helping lift larger pieces of rubble and take them outside. It had surprised him at first how easily Annette could lift certain objects because of how small she seemed, but then he had remembered his first impression of Hilda. He quickly learned not to judge strength on a person’s appearance.

He had seen both Annette and Hilda wield large, deadly heroes’ relics and he’d rather not be on the receiving end of them.

Sylvain approached them, waving to other helpers. The moment Mercedes spotted him, her eyes brightened happily, and a sweet smile blossomed. Between the two, he was arguably closer to Mercedes than Anette and for good reason. She was always a shoulder to lean on and he knew he could trust her.

“Good afternoon, Sylvain,” She greeted, pausing in sweeping and leaning the broom against a rather tall pile of rubble to give him her undivided attention.

“Hey Mercedes, you look lovely as ever,” He winked, even going as far as to reach for her hand to place a kiss on the back of it in a mockingly formal greeting.

She giggled, shaking her head fondly as he released her hand. “Have you come to pray?”

“Actually, that doesn’t sound like a bad idea,” Sylvain mused, “But I’m afraid not. I’ve come to ask you a question.”

“Oh? Well, whatever it is, I would be more than happy to answer you.”

“It’s about…” He looked left and right before whispering, “Do you mind telling me about how you proposed to Annette?”

“I don’t mind at all,” Mercedes responded without missing a beat, “What would you like to know?”

“Where did you ask her?” He started, listing each question rapidly, “How did you ask her? Were you nervous? Were you ever doubtful of her feelings?”

“Goodness, you really have a lot on your mind right now, don’t you, Sylvain?” She said, genuinely surprised, “To answer your questions. I proposed to her at the goddess tower,” Sylvain restrained an eyeroll, “I asked her if she would accompany me to see my father, because I realized she was the one I loved and wanted her by my side for the rest of my life,” Sylvain nodded, it was simple, but not too much. “Whether or not I was nervous…” She trailed off with a sigh. “Of course, I was. I’ve known Annie for such a long time, but I never knew if she felt the same towards me. I never doubted she loved me; I simply hadn’t realized what type of love it was.” She paused, letting her answers sink in, “Do you have any other questions?”

Sylvain stood still, one last question rolling around in his head for her. She said it all so easily, as if it didn’t take much effort at all. No, that wasn’t right. She just said she had been nervous, but she hadn’t doubted her. At least platonically.

Felix was his best friend, so yeah, he’d hope he liked him enough. Would Felix say he loved him though? That was the real question. They’d known each other since they were kids, if anyone else looked at them back then, they might say they were like brothers.

Oh goddess, he hoped Felix didn’t think of him as some sort of big brother figure.

Friend zoned, he heard of, but he only heard horror stories of people who had been rejected because they were seen ‘as-a-sibling’.

If that was the case, Sylvain supposed he could just try to change how Felix saw him? But did he see him like that?

“Sylvain?” A gentle hand touched his arm, luring him out of his thoughts, “Are you alright?”

“Oh,” Sylvain blinked at her, smiling sheepishly, “Sorry about that. Yeah, I have one more question. What-”

“Sylvain!”

Both him and Mercedes turned to the voice, both watching as Annette’s face brightened at seeing him, waving happily before running over to them. She was only a couple feet away as her foot caught on a piece of rubble, letting out a yelp as she began to fall over. She closed her eyes and focused on her body to make it float before hitting the ground, giggling when she managed to right herself without help.

“Whew! That was close.” She dusted off her dress, blushing lightly when Mercedes stepped away from Sylvain to double check over her, fussing over her fiancé before leaning to place a kiss on her forehead.

Sylvain had forgotten she could do that. He never wanted to admit it, but he was always a little envious of the fact those who focused on reason learned how to float. They couldn’t fly per se, and he had learned a little bit of magic himself, but he hadn’t thought to fully focus on it. He felt more comfortable with a lance than a book in his hands.

Felix focused on reason a little too…

Could he float?

Annette skipped over to him, grinning ear to ear. “What’re you doing here?”

“I just wanted to have a short talk with Mercedes,” He answered, “I had a few questions, that’s all.”

“About what?”

“About…” He trailed off, slapping on a flirtatious smirk, “…How much of a tragedy it is we were robbed of two beauties at the same time. But I suppose I can’t be too upset, of course it’s only right two lovely ladies would be perfect for each other.”

“Oh, hush you!” Annette blushed, smacking him lightly on the arm. “But seriously, what’s up?”

“He was asking about my proposal, Annie,” Mercedes said, “He just wanted to know a few things about it.” She turned back to Sylvain, hands folding in front of her, “However, I am a little curious as to why you would ask about such a thing.”

Annette’s eyebrows furrowed. “Sylvain asked about how you proposed to me? That’s strange. I didn’t think he-” She suddenly broke out in an exaggerated gasp, “Wait! ARE YOU PROPOSING TO SOMEONE?!”

“Quiet down!” Sylvain shushed hurriedly, looking around the chapel in a panic.

Annette slapped her hands over her mouth, nodding quickly. She waited a few seconds before lowering her hands, the grin from earlier paling in comparison to this one.

“Are you though?” She whispered excitedly.

Sylvain looked to Mercedes for help.

She giggled and gestured to Annette.

“Yes.” He whispered.

Annette squealed, loudly, the sound bouncing off the slightly destroyed walls and alerting everyone who had been working around them to their spot, some jumping in shock, others dropping what they were holding at the shrill noise.

“Oh oops.” She covered her mouth again, ears turning red. Her next words coming out as a muffled ‘Mmfh Soweh.’

“You’re fine, Annie,” Mercedes shook her head fondly, before looking at Sylvain with an expression a person could only describe as motherly, “Do you know how you’re going to ask?”

“I don’t even know where yet,” Sylvain groaned, scratching the back of his head, his left foot tapping nervously, “You proposed at the goddess tower, but that just won’t work for me. I need a place that sets up just the right mood, you know.”

He needed to say the perfect words at the perfect place with the perfect method. If he could get this right, maybe he’d finally make Felix swoon over him. Or at least show him one of his genuine smiles that were rarer and just as, if not more, beautiful than the finest cut gemstones in all of Fodlan.

“Oh, I got an idea!” Annette bounced excitedly on the balls of her feet, “How about you write a poem to them? Ooo, ooo! Or you could play an instrument for them while singing words of affection to them. That’d work, right?”

Sylvain rolled his eyes as Mercedes began to laugh once more.

“I haven’t sung to him since we were kids,” He could remember singing lullabies to Felix to help him sleep when he came over, when nightmares shook him out of his sleep and sent jitters down his spine. Sylvain would do the same, crawling into Felix’s bed when he stayed over and claimed he was just staying for Felix’s sake. All he wanted was to stay by Felix’s side, no matter what. “Besides he likes your voice better.”

“I’msorrywhat?” Annette’s words came out in a jumble, face blanking as she processed what he said in response.

Mercedes’ eyes shined knowingly, placing a hand over her mouth in false shock. “Oh my.”

“The poem idea doesn’t sound too bad, but I don’t think he’d be into that,” Sylvain couldn’t even remember the last time Felix read poetry. He knew he read books, if not only for the fact Ashe would give book recommendations to everybody.

“Sylvain,” Annette started, blinking out of her shock, “Are you talking about-”

“There you are.”

The three turned their attention by instinct to the voice that always called forth attention, the one who they would never hesitate to answer to, and at times feared depending on the tone used as both instructor and general.

“Hey there, professor,” Sylvain greeted first, “You look lovely as ever.” He wasn’t trying to flirt, she genuinely looked stunning. She had been forced into Rhea’s old church garb, the white dress and navy shawl looking more alluring on her than the old archbishop. Her mint green hair shined in the light of the cathedral’s natural light (More from the giant hole in the ceiling if anything), giving her the appearance of possibly the goddess herself.

Their king was a lucky man.

“Charming as always,” Byleth acknowledged before waving at Mercedes and Annette, an emerald and silver ring glimmering as she did so, “I hope you do not mind if I steal Sylvain for a while.”

“We don’t mind at all,” Mercedes said, “In fact, I believe we just finished talking. Right, Annie?”

“Huh?” Annette paused before her mouth formed a small ‘O’, “O-Oh! Yup! We were! He’s all yours, professor!”

“Wanting me all to yourself?” Sylvain teased half-heartedly, “Now what would his majesty say?”

“You know that is not what I meant,” Byleth turned on her heel, gesturing with a hand to follow her, “Come along. I want to speak with you over tea.”

Sylvain wanted to both groan and cheer at the same time. Professor’s tea was always to die for, her brewing being far superior to any other he’d tasted before, but he really didn’t have time for this. He still had to-

She stopped a few feet away, gesturing once again. Her words came out slowly, “That was not a suggestion, Sylvain.”

Oh.

Uh oh.

It was a nostalgic feeling having tea with the professor in the gardens of Garreg Mach, the temperature outside being the perfect balance of comfortable warmth and a soothing chill. There were other pairs or small groups gathered as well amongst them, chatting happily without a care with sparkles in their eyes.

Sylvain was always more than happy to have tea with her. Really, he was! The spread of desserts she gathered were always splendid, always perplexing him on how she was able to obtain so many delicacies and his favorite tea in such a short time frame. He once asked her, and she had said with a blank expression that she just carried tea leaves with her no matter what.

He had thought it was a joke before she had conquered up a pouch out of nowhere and showcased an impressive array of tea leaves, each labeled and stored in a smaller container within.

Sylvain lifted his teacup, blowing lightly before taking a sip. He willed himself to calm as he tasted the pleasing flavor of bergamot. Felix hated this flavor. He liked his tea to taste earthy or with a varied intense flavor of spices. Sylvain preferred citrus or simpler flavors. He wondered if Felix would be okay with keeping different flavors of tea if he stayed with him. Would he think it’d be a waste of money? Money shouldn’t be an issue, he knew. Felix would probably want to keep track of it between them.

Goddess, wasn’t that a thought?

Would Felix be okay with being the one to track their finances? Sylvain could do it just as well if Felix wanted him to-

“Sylvain, the cup is empty.”

He brought himself back to the present, realizing he had completely drained the tea within seconds. “Oh.” He lowered the cup onto its saucer, clearing his throat awkwardly.

The corner of Byleth’s lips curved, an eyebrow raising, “Thirsty, are we?”

“I haven’t had much to drink today,” Sylvain answered with a half-hearted chuckle, “Is there something you wanted to talk about, professor? I can’t remember the last time you forced me to have tea with you.” He rested an elbow onto the table, resting his chin on his fist as he leaned forward with a smirk, “Did you want to hear dirt on his majesty? I got tons of stories from when he was a kid.”

“I’m sure if I ask him, he will tell me himself,” Byleth took a sip from her teacup, “I’ve come to ask you about a rumor I’ve heard recently.”

“A rumor?” Sylvain said, his body tensing.

“That’s right,” She placed her cup down, reaching for a small blueberry scone, “Rumor has it you’ve been asking others for advice.”

He lifted his other hand in a dismissive gesture. “Come on, professor. People ask for advice all the time.”

“Advice for proposing marriage.”

Sylvain’s lips thinned, turning his head to focus on a particularly pretty flower in the bushes around them. The red one was nice. There was a blue flower too. Very pretty. Felix probably didn’t like flowers. Plenty girls did, but that was beside the point. There were other colors too. Yeah, the flowers were pretty. Oh, there was a small pink one-

“Sylvain.”

“Is that such a bad thing?” He said, voice barely louder than a whisper, “I get it. I don’t exactly have the best reputation…” He lifted his chin off his fist, hand landing heavily on the table, “But is it so hard to believe that I-”

“Sylvain, you’re misunderstanding.” Byleth lifted her hand when he tried to open his mouth, “I was just wondering why you hadn’t come to me for advice.”

“Excuse me?” Sylvain’s body chilled, the building anger inside of him extinguishing within seconds.

Byleth’s cheeks pinkened, shocking the poor man as she began to pout. He could hardly believe what he was seeing. He’d seen her smile, beautiful as the goddess’ truth to be told, but that was rare. It was even more rare than when Felix would smile, and he only cracked if he really really liked you.

“I may have been your professor and general, but I am your friend as well,” She picked at the scone, tearing off a small piece, “Why haven’t you come to me for advice? I’ve proposed marriage too.”

“I heard, but-”

“You went to Dimitri.” She tossed the piece into her mouth, mumbling her next words as she chewed, “So you could have asked me as well.”

“Professor, I’ve known Dimitri since I was eight,” Sylvain couldn’t believe this was happening, “But okay, okay. Since you insist,” It was cute how she perked up, eyes brightening the smallest amount.

Sylvain supposed he had already gotten plenty advice, although he was still as clueless as he had been from the beginning. He already knew how Byleth had proposed to Dimitri, where and when she did it, since it was the exact same way as Dimitri based on what he said.

 His fingers pressed into his palms tightly, aching at the feeling.

“What gave you the courage to propose?” He asked, meeting her eyes, his body tense as the words left him.  

“I suppose you could say I didn’t want to lose him again,” Byleth responded, tone softening, “I had thought I lost him, when we found him again,” She reached for her cup, warming her hands on the porcelain, “I’m sure you must have thought the same thing at some point. We all saw him.”

Sylvain would never forget how his friend acted that promised day. The way his eyes were darkened, filled with hate and unfathomable rage. He thought of nothing but slaughter, revenge for the ones he had lost.

It was terrifying.

“But when he finally pulled through and we managed to win,” She breathed in shakily, “I realized how much I cared for him and how much it would hurt to be without him.”

“He’s lucky to have you, professor.” Sylvain said, meaning it with all his heart, “Seriously, I’m glad you have each other.”

“But this is not about me,” Byleth reminded, “Sylvain, you have the courage to propose. You’ve already thought long about this, haven’t you?”

He couldn’t really deny that…

“Yeah, but…” He shook his head, “I don’t know what I’m doing. What if he doesn’t want to?” He argued, “What if he doesn’t think I’m serious? I’ve never…”

I’ve never been in love before.

“Marriage isn’t about fancy rings or dramatic proposals, Sylvain,” Byleth began, “Marriage is an oath. An oath a person makes to the one they love, to be by their side through the brightest of days and darkest of nights.” She gazed down lovingly at her ring, “It can begin with a ring, a song, a letter, or even a whispered promise on a lonely night.”

“Do you remember the promise we made when we were kids? About sticking together until we die together?”

“I remember.”

“As long as your love is true, whatever you may say will be more than enough to convey how you feel,” Byleth folded her hands together, thumb caressing her ring, “Do you understand, Sylvain?”

“Professor…” Sylvain tried, words failing him as his eyes began to water, “I just want to do this right. He deserves so much.” Felix had been through too much. Life was never kind to anyone, and yet all Sylvain wanted to do was curse the goddess for the pain she brought to the ones he cared deeply for and praise her for giving them to him in the first place.

“And you do too,” Byleth reached over, placing a hand over his, “I didn’t mean to make you cry. Would you like some more tea?”

“No, no I’m fine, I just,” He cleared his throat, wiping his eyes with his other hand, “You really think I can do this?”

“Sylvain, I have no doubt in my mind,” She assured, squeezing his hand, “Now stop agonizing over this and go ask him. I don’t doubt many of us will be leaving Garreg Mach soon. Our new lives are waiting for us after all.”

“You’re right,” Sylvain coaxed his hand away from her, breathing in and out steadily as he stood from his seat, “I need to find him, right now.” He made his way around the tea table, ignoring the way others around them began to stare in his direction, some no doubt hearing what had just been discussed.

It didn’t matter what they said.

It didn’t matter if they spread rumors.

It didn’t matter if they knew exactly who he was thinking about.

All that mattered was-!

“Oh, one more thing.”

Sylvain stopped.

Byleth chuckled, grinning knowingly, “You will find Felix in the training grounds.”

“Of course he is,” Sylvain couldn’t keep from his own grin from growing, unsurprised from the way she knew who he loved. Even if the war was over, Felix would rather die than lay down his weapon. “Thank you, Professor!”

Sylvain would look like a mad man for sure with how he began to sprint around the monastery, but he could care less, the previous anxiety leaving him as he ran.

They swore they wouldn’t die before the other, and what was that if not a promise to be together for the rest of their lives?

If Felix didn’t believe him, well…

Sylvain would just have to keep repeating it until he did.

The training grounds, Sylvain realized mid-sprint through the monastery, had to be the perfect place to propose to Felix.

Nowhere else in Garreg Mach mattered more to him than there. He spent full days and entire nights training for hours on end just to hone his skills with the blade to become stronger. Sylvain both admired and feared him for this, wondering how he could do so without becoming tired within a few minutes.

Training increased everyone’s stamina though and with how much Felix trained…

Sylvain had to avoid thinking too hard about it, lest he have a different problem on his hands. He could think about bedroom activities after Felix gave him his answer.

He steeled himself as he reached the door to the training grounds, replaying the professor’s words repeatedly in his head. As long as his feelings were true, Felix would believe him, and like he thought earlier, if Felix didn’t believe him, he’d repeat it every day until it finally got through to him.

There was nothing he wanted more than to have Felix by his side.

He knew he’d have to fight a couple side battles along the way, mainly with his father, but for Felix he was willing to do anything.

Sylvain loved Felix and he wanted the world to know.

He took a deep breath, holding it as he pushed open the doors to walk inside. He wasn’t surprised to find only one person inside. What he was surprised about was what said person was actually doing.

Felix leaned against one of the pillars aligning the training grounds, his arms crossed as furrowed eyebrows and narrowed eyes glared down at something in one of his hands, the item hidden from Sylvain’s sight. His fist closed over it, head shooting up at hearing the door open.

Sylvain could barely contain himself when his heart skipped a beat at meeting Felix’s amber stare, a tingling warmth filling him instantly. His lips stretched out, lifting a hand in a wave before making his way over to his best friend.

"Felix!"

Felix uncrossed his arms, pushing himself off the pillar. He nodded in greeting, "Sylvain."

"I'm surprised you aren't training." Sylvain took in his surroundings, noting how empty the area was. There weren’t even any training dummies set up or targets for archery. He didn’t even see any weaponry.

"I would if I could,” Felix groaned, shaking his head, “The professor locked up all the weaponry and training gear to ensure we take a break,” His words lowered in a grumble, "She wouldn't even let me leave my room until I left my sword behind."

Sylvain could only imagine how well that went. He was surprised he hadn’t heard anything about Felix and the Professor having an argument. There was no way Felix accepted that willingly. His weapons were precious to him.

He chuckled lightheartedly, "You probably hated that, didn't you?"

"Obviously." Felix rolled his eyes before sighing, "We fought to bring peace to Fodlan, but peace is so boring. No more chances to swing my sword at enemies. No more life-threatening battles…” He glanced around the room somberly before focusing on a spot on the floor beside his feet, “I know these are positive developments, but I’m still a warrior at heart.” He slowly rose his head back up, “Here I am, watching sadly as my blade grows dull…”

"Yeah, I get it,” Sylvain said, “For the past five years we’ve been fighting and fighting, but now the war’s over and it’s time for a new way of life.”

“You’re right,” Felix’s hand curled further, fingers pressing into his palm, “Damn, I can be a fool sometimes.”

“You and me both, Felix.”

Felix shook his head with a scoff before looking over Sylvain curiously, “I’m surprised to see you here actually. Like you said, the war’s over and word has it you’re supposed to be preparing for a wedding.”

Sylvain paled. He knew word was spreading, but Felix had been cooped up inside the training grounds for most of the day, hadn’t he? No, there wasn’t any training equipment. Felix had to have been other places. What were people saying? Oh, goddess, he hoped no one was already spreading who they thought he had gotten engaged to.

He hadn’t even gotten the chance to ask yet!

"Don't look at me like that,” Felix’s lips curved in an almost smile, “I know better than to believe some baseless rumor. Rumors about your love life is hardly anything new.”

"Hey, that’s not nice!” Sylvain complained, feigning hurt as his chest lightened in relief, “I’ve changed!”

"I know, I know." Felix’s expression shifted, lips thinning and ears pinkening, "I'm actually glad you're here. I have something to tell you.”

“Okay but,” Sylvain scratched the back of his head. He didn’t really want to delay proposing any longer though. “Felix, I need-”

“Don’t interrupt me,” Felix snapped, jaw tightening as the red spread to his cheeks, “This is really important.”

What Sylvain wanted to say was important too. Then again, Felix looked like he was ready to sprint out of the building if he didn’t have a chance to speak. Sylvain could honestly count the number of times he’d seen Felix blush this hard on his hand.

He had waited years to figure his own feelings out, he could wait a couple more minutes to propose.

Sylvain nodded mutely.

“We’ve known each since we were kids and you’re always so irresponsible, yet…” Felix groaned lightly, “You’re always fooling around, but you’re always there when someone needs you. It’s irritating. I always feel like I have to be watching out for what you’re going to do and I just…” His teeth grinded, the shade of red brightening to the point Sylvain was almost worried he had a fever, “I want to be there for you.” He stepped closer to Sylvain, lifting the hand curled into a fist. “Take this.”

Sylvain’s heart nearly stopped when a silver band with an amber colored garnet was pressed into his palm. It was a modestly sized gem in comparison to some of the grander ones he’d seen when he went shopping earlier that week. It was bigger than the cut than the sapphire gem on Sylvain’s ring, that was for sure.

“Felix...?” Sylvain breathed, his mouth drying as he tried to process what was happening. There was no way-

“Without you by my side, I can’t be sure you’ll stay true to our promise,” Felix tried to explain hurriedly, “I had to think of a way to make sure you’d always be with me. This is what I came up with, and…” He paused, his voice wavering and hands shaking as he avoided Sylvain’s eye.

Sylvain felt blood rushing to his head, his thoughts spiraling at the fact Felix, the infamously known stone-faced general, was standing right before him, blushing and (almost) stuttering like a lovestruck teenager.

If this was a dream, Sylvain prayed he’d never wake up.

He lifted the ring in his hand, admiring how beautiful the gem was and how it looked like it would fit him perfectly. He’d have to ask how Felix got his ring size.

Sylvain felt adrenaline go through him like fire, burning to sweep Felix into his arms and scream his devotion to all of Fodlan. He wanted to press his lips to his face, eyes, nose, cheeks, anywhere and everywhere to shower him in affection. He wanted to bury him in gifts and the finest silks gold could buy.

He was going to be an absolutely infuriating husband.

But he still wanted to propose, and Felix hadn’t exactly asked him yet, so…

“And what, Felix?” Sylvain said, forcing his words to remain steady and to keep his hands to himself.

“You’re pretty slow on the uptake,” Felix grumbled, glaring, “Don’t you know what this ring means?”

“I’m the biggest fool in all of Fodlan,” Sylvain grinned, waving the ring at him, “I need to hear you say it, Felix.”

Sylvain really didn’t think Felix’s face could get any redder, the swordsman fuming in a mixture of restrained aggravation and embarrassment. “If you keep messing around, I’ll…I’ll!” His hands balled into fits, shaking his head, ponytail waving, “Fine! Listen carefully. I’m not going to say this more than once,” He met Sylvain’s eye, the expression nearly making him swoon on the spot. “I want you to be my husband. Please say yes. Let’s get married and stay together until we die together.”

Felix took another step closer, grabbing the hand holding the ring. His voice softened, “I love you, Sylvain.”

If Sylvain died right now, (Felix would be pissed) but he’d die a happy man.

He pushed himself away, missing when Sylvain slid the ring on his finger, and turned on his heel as he crossed his arms, “That’s all.”

“Wait, Felix!” Sylvain grabbed for his arm, hanging on as he tried to tug himself out of his grip.

“What? You have something to complain about?” Felix glared at a spot behind Sylvain, too flustered to look him in the eye.

“I will if you don’t let me answer properly!” Sylvain’s face ached, unable to restrain a smile any longer as he used his superior strength to force him to face him. He felt Felix’s muscles tense, struggling to get his hands off him. “You’re really gonna propose and leave?”

“It’s not like you’re going to say yes,” Felix tried taking a step backwards, planting his heel heavily onto the rough terrain beneath their feet, “Just let me go, Sylvain.”

“You really think I’m just going to let you go after saying that?!” Sylvain snapped, his voice growing louder as he pulled harder to keep him close, “At least hear me out!”

“No,” Felix glared, “I don’t need an explanation for why you’re rejecting me.”

“Felix, I am not rejecting you!”

“What?”

Sylvain felt him stagger, taking the opportunity to spin Felix around to press his back against the nearest pillar, towering over him as Sylvain placed his free hand on the pillar to cage Felix in. He squeezed the arm held in his hand, dragging it down to circle around his wrist, feeling a drumming pulse under his fingers.

“The war’s over, just like you said,” Sylvain started, confidant Felix wouldn’t look away from him in this position, “We’ve been fighting for so long, and it's only right we finally get to live. I can only guess you think I’d reject you because, what, my father? My crest? Who cares about that, Felix?”

Felix’s gaze faltered, trying to shrink in on himself, “Sylvain-”

“Don’t interrupt,” Sylvain grinned at the way Felix snapped back to attention, “I don’t want to marry someone who wants to use me for my crest or some girl my father chose for me. I want to marry someone I care about,” Sylvain chanced releasing Felix’s wrist, pressing his palm against Felix’s cheek, relishing in the way his eyes widened and breath hitched, “Even if you don’t believe me, I’d like to try. I’ll propose to you over and over again until you know I’m serious.” He pressed closer, crowding even more so into Felix’s space. “I’m done lying. Marry me, Felix. I’d do anything for you.”

“You…” Felix attempted to back away, unable to do so due to the pillar at his back, “You are so infuriating.”

“Felix, if we’re together, I don’t even care if I stay locked up inside for the rest of my life,” His words came out in a rush, panicked at the response, “If you told me you didn’t want me to look at anyone else, I’d go blind for you.”

“Sylvain.”

“Sorry, I just…” Sylvain shook his head, “It’s a bit hard to rein it in. We’ve fought hard for peace, and I’m beyond happy just to be alive. And now,” He lowered his forehead against Felix’s, lowering his words to a whisper, “I’m engaged to the perfect man.”

“I haven’t said anything,” Felix argued half-heartedly.

“You proposed to me,” Sylvain said, “and I proposed to you. Sounds to me like we’re engaged.”

“Sylvain, I…” Felix’s throat bobbed, tempting Sylvain to press his lips against it to feel the motion, “I don’t know what to do with you.”

“Say yes,” Sylvain encouraged, “I want to spend the rest of our lives together trying to make you happy.”

“You…” Felix cleared his throat, allowing himself to lean into the palm on his cheek, “You’re doing fine so far.”

“You mean that?” Sylvain lifted his head away from him for a moment, “Which means you’re saying yes? You’ll marry me?”

“Obviously,” Felix looked to the side, the lovely blush from earlier not even close to fading, “I told you once, I’m not saying it again.”

Sylvain couldn’t restrain himself any longer.

He removed his hand from Felix and the pillar, immediately wrapping his arms around his waist to lift him into the air, spinning them in circles with a loud laugh, cheering as the other man began to yell in protest.

“Sylvain, let me go!”

“No!” He shouted back, as he brought them to a stop, grinning ear to ear as he placed Felix down, “I love you, Felix. I’m never letting you go for the rest of our lives.” He lifted his left hand, wiggling his fingers, “And this is proof of that.”

“When did you-?!” Felix gaped, eyes flickering between the ring and Sylvain. He attempted to pull away, letting out an uncharacteristically loud yelp as he was yanked back towards his betrothed. He stood frozen as Sylvain leaned down towards him, his intent clear to anyone who would dare enter the training grounds at that moment.

Felix closed his eyes as Sylvain came closer, lips brushing against his, only to pause.

“Wait,” Sylvain’s eyes widened in horror, “I forgot your ring.”

“What?”

“I bought you a ring!” Sylvain exclaimed, slapping a hand over his eyes. He had one chance to propose and although it turned out great, he had to mess it up in some way, didn’t he? “Goddess, I have it in my room. Why didn’t I bring it?”

“Sylvain.”

“Hold on, Felix,” He released Felix, already turning away, “Let me go get it. I really want you to wear it. I promise you’ll like it, and if you don’t, we can always go get you a different one. I’ll be right-”

“For the love of…”

Sylvain’s only warning was an exasperated sigh before he was suddenly jerked back around, hands curling in the collar of his shirt before being yanked down. He let out a muffled grunt of surprise as lips pressed against his, surprisingly avoiding smashing their teeth together at the force he was dragged. He breathed in through his noise, sighing contently as he kissed Felix back, arms wrapping around his middle to bring him closer.

Felix’s hands released his collar, wrapping around his neck to drag him down more, pressing intently with a pleased groan. Felix pulled away first, letting out a rare chuckle when Sylvain sought his lips out again.

He pressed a hand against his lips with a teasing smirk, “You’re insatiable.”

“And you’re no fair,” Sylvain pouted, lifting a hand to press the palm against his lips for a light kiss before lowering it, “You can’t just kiss me and expect me to stop.”

Felix rose an eyebrow, smirking, “And here I thought you wanted to give me a ring.”

Sylvain’s face was going to be sore with how much he was smiling, unable to hide his giddiness at the thought of Felix wearing his engagement ring as he tightened his grip on his hand to drag him towards the training grounds exit.

It was going to be hard; Sylvain knew. He was the future Margrave Gautier and Felix was the newly appointed Duke Fraldarius. There was no way there wouldn’t be issues with what they were about to do, but there were ways around it. Hardships were a part of life, and both of them were more than aware of that fact.

All that mattered to Sylvain was their future together,

And he would protect it until death parted them.