Flame Eyed Strangers in Awakening: OC x Lucina

The focus shifted to the males of the shepherds who seemed to be engaged in a rather animated discussion as they were marching towards the plegia border on the road.

"Did anyone else notice the women gathered late into the night?" Roy asked, adjusting his armor as the men prepared for their march. "They seemed rather... animated in their discussion."

Xander, the dark elven warrior, paused in sharpening his blade. "Their laughter carried across the camp," he said carefully, though his eyes flickered toward the pegasus stables where Cordelia was preparing her mount.

"Indeed," Frederick interjected, methodically checking their supplies for the twentieth time. "Though I'm certain they were merely discussing tactical matters and appropriate battlefield conduct."

Valvaderyhn's usually stoic expression cracked slightly. "Tactical matters that required quite so much giggling, Sir Frederick?"

"Speaking of tactical matters," Lon'qu muttered, "your morning tea delivery to Lady Maribelle seems to have become quite the strategic operation." His words carried a hint of amusement, unusual for the typically reserved swordsman.

The red knight straightened his already impeccable posture. "It is merely a matter of proper etiquette and maintaining morale among our noble allies."

"Ah yes, morale," Xander's deep voice carried a trace of humor. "Is that why you spent three hours yesterday ensuring the tea leaves were properly sorted?"

"Says the man who mysteriously appears whenever a certain pegasus knight needs assistance," Odyn commented drily, though his own gaze kept drifting to where Marth had been seen patrolling the perimeter.

"We all cope with grief differently," Xander responded softly. "Cordelia understands this. She... has a strength that deserves respect."

"Much like how Hailfire's strength caught your attention, Lon'qu?" Roy grinned, ducking as the swordsman shot him a warning glare.

"She is a capable warrior," Lon'qu stated flatly, though the others noticed he didn't move away from the conversation as he typically did when women were discussed.

"Capable enough to help you overcome your... hesitation around women?" Valvaderyhn inquired politely.

A ghost of a smile crossed Lon'qu's face. "She makes it... easier. There is no pretense with her. Only truth."

"Truth, is it?" Frederick raised an eyebrow. "Like the truth of how our dear Seraphina has been practicing her lance work with such dedication lately?"

It was Frederick's turn to look somewhat flustered, his usual stern demeanor cracking slightly. "Lady Seraphina shows admirable commitment to her duties."

"Particularly when you're supervising those duties, it seems," Odyn observed with a knowing smile.

"And what of you?" Frederick deflected. "The mysterious Marth seems to have caught your attention rather thoroughly."

Odyn's expression grew thoughtful. "There's something... familiar about her. Something in her eyes that speaks of burdens I wish I could understand."

"Gods, we sound like a bunch of lovestruck squires," Roy laughed, breaking the moment of solemnity.

"Better than sounding like our dear Exalt, who's probably whispering sweet nothings to Lady Sarai as we speak," Valvaderyhn said with uncharacteristic mischief.

"While we discuss matters of the heart, Emmeryn awaits rescue," Lon'qu reminded them, his tone growing serious.

"True," Xander agreed, rising to his feet. "Though perhaps it is these matters of the heart that give us the strength for what lies ahead."

Frederick nodded solemnly. "For Ylisse, for the Exalt, and for those we..." he paused, choosing his words carefully, "...those we fight alongside."

The conversation faded as they finished their preparations, each man lost in thoughts of duty, honor, and the delicate balance between their responsibilities and their growing attachments. The road to Plegia would be dangerous, but they would face it together, their bonds – both spoken and unspoken – giving them strength for the battles ahead.

"I must say," Roy continued as they marched, unable to resist the opportunity for more teasing, "watching our stern Frederick and the noble Valvaderyhn compete for the title of 'Most Attentive Knight' has been quite entertaining."

Frederick cleared his throat. "I merely ensure the army runs efficiently—"

"Oh yes," Xander interrupted with unusual humor, "I'm sure calculating the exact temperature for Seraphina's bathwater is crucial to military efficiency."

"Nearly as crucial as Valvaderyhn's precise measurement of tea leaves for Lady Maribelle's morning brew," Lon'qu added, his usual stoicism giving way to a rare smirk.

Valvaderyhn's composed facade cracked slightly. "The proper preparation of tea is a matter of—"

"Honor? Duty? Devotion?" Roy supplied helpfully, drawing chuckles from the others.

Near the supply wagons, Sully nudged her husband Kellam, who for once was visible enough to notice. "What do you suppose has gotten into them?" she wondered, watching the unusual display of male bonding.

"Hard to say," Kellam replied softly, "though it reminds me of how we started, doesn't it? All that awkward dancing around each other?"

Further along the column, Miriel adjusted her spectacles, making careful observations of both the male gathering and Stahl, who kept stealing glances her way between checking on their supplies. "Fascinating," she murmured. "The social dynamics among our forces show remarkable patterns of pair-bonding behavior."

"Ain't that just a fancy way of sayin' love's in the air?" Donnel asked cheerfully, while Panne, walking beside him, twitched her ears in silent amusement at her farmboy's insight.

Gaius, who had been suspiciously close to where Sumia was leading her pegasus, nearly choked on his latest sweet when the conversation drifted back to him. "Speaking of efficiency," he called out to Frederick and Valvaderyhn, "how many sugar cubes does it take to properly sweeten a lady's tea?"

"That would depend entirely on the lady's preferences," Valvaderyhn answered seriously, missing the joke. "Though I imagine your expertise lies more in honey than sugar, Sir Gaius."

"Got to keep my Stumbles sweet somehow," Gaius muttered, then flushed when he realized he'd said it aloud.

Near the rear of the column, young Ricken was trying very hard to maintain a professional demeanor while walking beside Saibyrh, the elegant sister of Xander and Valvaderyhn. His attempts at appearing mature were somewhat undermined by his frequent glances at her and the way his voice cracked when she spoke to him.

"Brother," Saibyrh called out to Valvaderyhn, her eyes twinkling with mischief, "perhaps you could give young Ricken here some lessons in tea preparation? He seems quite interested in learning proper etiquette."

The young mage turned as red as Valvaderyhn's armor, while the gathered men barely contained their laughter.

"Yes, do tell us more about proper etiquette," Roy pressed, grinning broadly. "Should we be taking notes on how to fold napkins into perfect swans, or is that an advanced technique?"

"I believe," Frederick interjected with dignity, though his lips twitched slightly, "that napkin-folding falls under the category of intermediate butler duties. Advanced techniques involve predicting which specific blend of tea your lady will desire before she herself knows."

"A skill you've clearly mastered with Lady Seraphina," Xander observed drily.

The conversation continued to flow, punctuated by laughter and good-natured ribbing, even as they maintained their guard. The path to Plegia was dangerous, but these moments of levity strengthened their bonds. Each couple and potential couple, from the established harmony of Sully and Kellam to the budding connections between the others, added their own notes to the symphony of relationships within the Shepherds' ranks.

Even Lon'qu, despite his usual reticence, found himself drawn into the banter. "At least Hailfire has no interest in tea ceremonies," he muttered, prompting another round of laughter from his companions.

"No," Xander agreed with a knowing smile, "she merely has you practicing dance forms disguised as sword techniques."

The resulting flush on Lon'qu's face was worth any retribution he might face during their next sparring session.

Seraphina walked alongside her mount, the rhythmic sound of hooves against earth matching her heartbeat as memories washed over her. The dark elven maiden's crimson eyes softened as she recalled how her relationship with Frederick had transformed from formal military courtesy to... whatever this warmth in her chest was now.

Flashback....

At first, he had been merely "Sir Frederick," the stern lieutenant of the Shepherds who regarded her and the other dark elven warriors with professional suspicion. Understandable, given his duty to protect the Exalt's family. She remembered their first interaction clearly – a crisp autumn morning when he had interrogated her thoroughly about dark elven military traditions, his questions precise and relentless.

*"Your combat techniques are... unusual," he had said, watching her train. "But effective. Perhaps an exchange of knowledge would benefit both our forces."*

That had been the beginning – formal training sessions that gradually became longer, more frequent. She smiled, remembering how his rigid posture would soften slightly when she demonstrated a particularly intricate maneuver, his tactical mind clearly appreciating the efficiency of dark elven combat forms.

But it was the "incident" three weeks ago that had changed everything. They had been patrolling the border when bandits ambushed their small group. Frederick had taken an arrow meant for her – not because she was a comrade, but because he had specifically placed himself in its path.

*"Sir Frederick!" she had cried out, catching him before he could fall. "That was foolish! I could have deflected it!"*

His response, through gritted teeth as she tended his wound, had struck something deep within her: "Perhaps. But I found myself... unwilling to take that risk."

It was the way he had looked at her then – pain and something else darkening his eyes, his ever-present formality cracking just enough to show the man beneath the knight's armor. His hand had caught hers as she applied the vulnerary, holding it a moment longer than necessary.

After that, things had shifted subtly. His morning reports included perfectly prepared tea – dark elven blend, her favorite from home. She found her preferred fruits appearing mysteriously in her rations. Training sessions became punctuated with conversations that stretched long into the evening, discussing everything from military strategy to childhood memories.

She caught herself watching him now, admiring how he managed to maintain perfect posture even after hours of marching. How had she never noticed before the grace in his movements, the subtle kindness in his eyes when he thought no one was looking?

Just yesterday, he had helped her polish her armor – a task she was perfectly capable of doing alone. But the quiet intimacy of the moment, the way his fingers had brushed against hers as he demonstrated "proper Ylissean maintenance techniques," had sent her heart racing in a most unmilitary fashion.

*end Flashback*

"A copper for your thoughts, Lady Seraphina?"

His voice startled her from her reverie. Frederick had fallen into step beside her, close enough that their arms nearly touched. When had that started feeling so natural?

"I was merely..." she paused, a slight flush coloring her dark skin, "reviewing patrol patterns."

"Indeed." Was that amusement in his voice? "And would these patrol patterns explain why you've been polishing the same spot on your vambrace for the past five minutes?"

Seraphina looked down, realizing she had indeed been absently rubbing the same piece of armor. "I... that is..."

"Perhaps," he said softly, his voice carrying that same tone from the day of the arrow, "you might permit me to assist? I've noted some Ylissean techniques that might interest you."

Their eyes met, and Seraphina felt that now-familiar warmth spread through her chest. "I would like that... Frederick."

His slight intake of breath at the dropped honorific was barely noticeable, but the gentle smile that followed transformed his entire face. As they continued their march toward Plegia, Seraphina realized that whatever this was between them – this delicate dance of duty and growing affection – it had become as essential to her as breathing.

*2nd Flashback begins*

The supply tent was quiet save for the scratch of Frederick's quill as he meticulously catalogued their inventory. Seraphina sat across from him, maps of Plegia spread before her, though her attention kept drifting to the way the lantern light played across his features.

They had fallen into this routine over the past weeks – working late together, sharing comfortable silences punctuated by quiet discussions of strategy and supplies. Tonight, something felt different. Perhaps it was the way his hand lingered when passing her documents, or how their eyes seemed to meet more frequently than strictly necessary.

"The terrain here will be treacherous," she noted, trying to focus on the maps. "The sand will slow our cavalry."

"Indeed," Frederick replied, looking up from his ledger. "Though your dark elven steeds seem better adapted to such conditions. Perhaps..."

He trailed off, noticing how intently she was watching him. The lantern flame flickered, casting shadows that softened his usually stern expression.

"Perhaps?" she prompted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Frederick cleared his throat. "Perhaps you might... that is... your expertise in desert warfare would be most valuable in planning our approach."

She smiled at his formality – always the proper knight, even now, alone in the quiet of night. How many moments like this had they shared? Small exchanges over weapon maintenance, lingering conversations during patrol, the way he somehow always knew when she needed a fresh cup of tea...

"Frederick," she said softly, surprising herself by using his name without title. "Do you remember the night after the arrow incident?"

He set down his quill carefully. "When you insisted on checking my wound every hour, despite the healers' assurances?"

"You didn't object."

"No," he admitted, his voice growing gentle. "I found I... rather appreciated your concern."

The air between them seemed to grow thick with unspoken words. Seraphina rose from her seat, moving around the table as if drawn by an invisible force. Frederick stood as well, ever proper, but he didn't step back as she approached.

"I've never thanked you properly," she murmured, "for taking that arrow."

"It was my duty—"

"Was it duty that made you memorize how I take my tea? That has you checking my armor before every march? That brings you to my tent each morning with fresh fruit from home?"

His breath caught. "Lady Seraphina..."

She wasn't sure who moved first – perhaps they both did – but suddenly she was close enough to feel the warmth radiating from him. Her hand found his chest, resting over his heart, feeling its rapid beat through his clothing.

"I am no lady," she whispered. "I am a warrior. Your equal. And I..."

The rest of her words were lost as she pressed her lips to his. It was a gentle kiss, tentative at first, but filled with months of unspoken feelings. For one terrifying moment, he stood frozen, and she feared she had ruined everything.

Then his arms wrapped around her, pulling her closer, and he was kissing her back with an intensity that made her head spin. All his careful control, his perfect propriety, melted away as one hand tangled in her hair while the other pressed against the small of her back.

When they finally parted, both slightly breathless, Seraphina didn't run. She didn't hide. Instead, she met his gaze steadily, even as her cheeks burned.

"I apologize for my forwardness," she said, though her voice was firm. "But I do not regret it."

Frederick's face softened into a smile she had never seen before – tender, almost vulnerable. "Nor do I," he admitted, brushing a strand of hair from her face with a gentleness that made her heart ache. "Though perhaps we should discuss proper protocol for such... situations."

A laugh bubbled up from her chest. "Always the knight," she teased, but her hand found his and squeezed gently. "Very well, Sir Frederick. Shall we establish formal guidelines for courting between a Ylissean knight and a dark elven warrior?"

"I believe," he said, pulling her close again, "some protocols may need to be... revised."

The supply ledger lay forgotten on the table as they shared another kiss, this one slower, deeper, full of promise. Outside, the camp settled into night, other couples finding their own quiet moments before the battles ahead. But in this tent, surrounded by maps and inventory lists, Seraphina and Frederick had finally found their moment of perfect clarity.

*2nd flashback ends*

Seraphina's contemplation of Frederick was abruptly shattered by the sight of her younger brother. "Alek..." she whispered, her crimson eyes widening. Frederick, noting the change in her posture, followed her gaze to the young dark elf standing protectively near the dragon girl.

"You know him?" Frederick asked softly, though the family resemblance was unmistakable.

"My youngest brother," Seraphina confirmed, her hand unconsciously tightening on her weapon. "He was supposed to be safe in our homeland. What could have brought him here, to Plegia of all places?"

The desert winds whipped around them as the Shepherds quickly formed into battle positions. Frederick remained close to Seraphina, both of them watching as Robin began deploying units according to the terrain. The tactician's voice carried across the sand as they issued orders, pairing cavalry units with mages to compensate for the difficult terrain.

"Seraphina," Frederick said, his voice carrying that particular tone she'd grown to recognize – the one that meant he was struggling between duty and personal concern. "Your brother appears capable, but he's young. Perhaps—"

"I need to reach him," she finished, already calculating the fastest path through the sandy terrain. "But I won't abandon formation to do so."

Frederick's slight smile showed his approval of her disciplined response, even as his eyes betrayed his worry. "Then we move together. The sand may slow my mount, but with your dark elven steed's superior adaptation..."

"We can support each other's advance," Seraphina completed his thought, their minds working in perfect tactical synchronization. It was moments like these that had first drawn her to him – how they could read each other's intentions in battle as easily as they now read each other's hearts.

Chrom's voice rang out across the battlefield: "Robin! What's your assessment?"

The tactician quickly outlined their strategy: "We'll need to split our forces. One group to reach Nowi and Alek, another to engage the enemy's main force. The dark elven cavalry will be crucial in this sand."

Seraphina caught Frederick's eye, an unspoken question passing between them. He nodded slightly – understanding, as always. They would fight together, pushing through to reach her brother while maintaining tactical discipline. Their recent shift in relationship hadn't changed their battlefield rapport; if anything, it had enhanced it.

"Stay close," Frederick murmured, his voice carrying that hint of personal concern that only she would recognize beneath his professional tone. "The sand will try to separate us."

"Nothing will separate us," Seraphina responded firmly, the double meaning clear in her voice. As if to emphasize her point, she reached across the small space between their mounts, briefly clasping his hand before drawing her weapon.

Around them, the other Shepherds moved into position. Ricken and Saibyrh coordinated their magic, preparing to provide covering fire. Miriel and Stahl formed up nearby, the scholar already calculating spell trajectories while her cavalier partner watched her back. Every pair, whether bound by romance or simply comradeship, moved with practiced precision.

As Chrom gave the signal to advance, Seraphina spared one last glance at her brother. Alek stood tall despite his youth, his stance showing the same martial training she had received. Whatever had brought him here, she would get answers soon enough. For now, there was a battle to win, a young manakete to protect, and a mysterious sellsword to evaluate.

"Ready?" Frederick asked, though he already knew her answer.

"Always," she replied, and together they urged their mounts forward into the swirling sands.

The desert erupted into chaos as the Shepherds engaged the enemy forces. Seraphina's mount moved gracefully through the sand, its dark elven breeding evident in how it navigated the difficult terrain. Besides her, Frederick compensated for his horse's struggles with masterful horsemanship, keeping pace through sheer skill and determination.

"Hostile mages at our four and seven!" she called out, her tactical training taking precedence even as her eyes kept tracking Alek's position. Her brother was holding his own, she noted with a mixture of pride and concern, his magic complementing the young manakete's defensive stance.

*What are you doing here, little brother?* The thought pounded in her head with each hoofbeat. *You were supposed to be safe, studying in the grand libraries of home...*

Frederick's voice cut through her thoughts: "Incoming arrows!"

They moved in perfect synchronization, their mounts crossing paths as they deflected the barrage. Seraphina's blade caught the sunlight as she cut down two arrows meant for Frederick, while he blocked three aimed at her. They had practiced this maneuver countless times during their evening training sessions, though she never imagined they'd be performing it while trying to reach her wayward brother.

"Your form is perfect as always," Frederick commented as they pressed forward, and she caught the subtle warmth in his voice that others might miss.

"I had an excellent teacher," she replied, allowing herself a small smile despite the situation. Then her expression sobered as another memory surfaced. "Frederick... Alek was always fascinated by your people's history. All those questions he asked when we were children about Ylissean culture, the books he collected..."

Understanding dawned in Frederick's eyes as they dispatched two Plegian soldiers. "You think he came seeking Ylisse?"

"It would be just like him," she confirmed, ducking under a fire spell. "Always chasing knowledge, never considering the danger—" Her words cut off as she saw Alek cast a complex defensive spell she didn't recognize. "Though perhaps I underestimate him."

They were getting closer now. She could see how Alek positioned himself to cover Nowi's blind spots, his movements showing training she hadn't known he possessed. The scholar she remembered had clearly been practicing more than just theory.

Robin's voice carried across the battlefield: "Seraphina, Frederick! Press your advantage! We'll cover your flanks!"

Sure enough, dark elven arrows from Xander's position began picking off enemies trying to circle around them, while Valvaderyhn's crimson armor flashed in the sun as he cut off a potential ambush route.

"Some family reunion," Seraphina muttered, though loud enough for Frederick to hear. "I finally see my brother after two years, and it's in the middle of a Plegian desert while rescuing a manakete."

"At least he appears to be on the right side of the conflict," Frederick offered, his practical nature somehow making her feel better. "And he seems to have inherited your protective instincts."

She shot him a look, catching the slight upturn of his lips. Even in battle, he was learning to tease her, though only she would recognize it as such. The thought warmed her heart even as she calculated their next move.

"Alek!" she called out as they drew within earshot. "Whatever possessed you to leave home, we'll discuss it later. For now, stay close to the manakete!"

Her brother's head snapped up at her voice, his eyes widening. "Sister?! What are you—" He cut himself off to cast another protective spell, deflecting an enemy attack. "Actually, never mind. That's probably my question to answer, isn't it?"

"Oh, you have no idea how many questions you'll be answering," she assured him, her tone making Frederick chuckle beside her. The sound drew Alek's attention, and Seraphina saw his eyebrows rise as he noted their proximity.

"Sir Frederick?" Alek's voice carried a note of surprise that made Seraphina suspect her brother had indeed done his research on Ylissean military hierarchy. "You're... with my sister?"

"This is hardly the time—" Seraphina began, but was interrupted by Nowi.

"Less talking, more fighting!" the manakete declared, transforming in a burst of light that made Frederick's mount rear slightly. Seraphina steadied both their horses with practiced ease, her hand lingering on Frederick's arm a moment longer than necessary.

"She has a point," Frederick said, though his eyes held a promise of supporting her through the inevitable family discussion to come. "Shall we clear a path to safety?"

Seraphina nodded, falling back into their battle rhythm. Questions could wait. Explanations could wait. Even the implications of Alek witnessing her closeness with Frederick could wait. For now, they had a manakete to protect and a battle to win.

But as they fought their way forward, she couldn't help but notice how Alek's eyes kept darting between her and Frederick, a knowing smile playing at his lips despite the chaos around them. Somehow, she suspected her brother's explanation for being here might end up being the simpler conversation compared to explaining how the stern knight of Ylisse had won her heart.

The evening sun cast long shadows across the village as the Shepherds made camp, the day's revelations weighing heavily on everyone's minds. Seraphina stood at the edge of the temporary settlement, watching as her younger brother helped Nowi get settled, the ancient manakete somehow managing to look both childish and timeless at once.

The blue dragon crest that had manifested on Alek's forehead during battle still burned in Seraphina's memory. She'd known, of course, that her brother possessed the same power as all dark elves, but seeing him wield it so proficiently – and in defense of a manakete, no less – stirred both pride and concern in her heart.

"Your brother appears to have inherited more than just your family's looks," Frederick commented, approaching with two cups of tea. The familiar gesture brought a smile to her face despite her worries.

"Indeed," she replied, accepting the offered cup. "Though I'm more interested in how he went from studying in our homeland's libraries to protecting a thousand-year-old dragon girl in Plegia."

"Perhaps you should ask him," Frederick suggested gently. "He keeps looking this way."

Sure enough, Alek was stealing glances at them between helping Nowi organize her belongings. The young manakete seemed to be teasing him about something, judging by his reddening ears – a family trait Seraphina recognized all too well.

"I suppose I should," she sighed, but made no move to leave Frederick's side. "Though I'm not sure which conversation will be more awkward – asking him about his sudden appearance in Plegia, or explaining... us."

Frederick's free hand found hers, squeezing gently. "If I may be so bold, he seems more amused than concerned about our relationship. His smile when he saw us fighting together was rather telling."

"Of course he's amused," Seraphina muttered. "He probably has a dozen historical references about Ylissean-Dark Elven relationships memorized already. I wouldn't be surprised if he quoted ancient precedents at us."

As if on cue, Alek approached, Nowi bouncing along beside him. The manakete's eyes were bright with curiosity as she looked between Seraphina and Frederick, particularly their still-joined hands.

"Sister," Alek began, his tone carrying that scholarly note she remembered so well. "I see you've been... expanding diplomatic relations with Ylisse."

Seraphina felt Frederick stiffen slightly beside her, ever proper, but she kept her grip firm on his hand. "And I see you've appointed yourself guardian to a manakete. Care to explain how that happened, little brother?"

"Oh! Oh! I can tell that story!" Nowi exclaimed before Alek could respond. "He found me when those bad men were trying to sell me again. He used that pretty blue light thing and helped me escape! Then he promised to protect me forever and ever!" She beamed up at Alek, who was now definitely blushing.

"Forever is quite a commitment when dealing with a manakete," Seraphina observed drily, though her heart warmed at seeing her brother's protective nature in action.

"Says the woman who's captured the heart of Ylisse's most dedicated knight," Alek countered smoothly, his scholarly demeanor giving way to brotherly teasing. "I've read about Sir Frederick's reputation for thoroughness. I trust he's been thoroughly devoted to courting you properly?"

Now it was Seraphina's turn to blush, though she felt Frederick's quiet chuckle beside her. "I believe," Frederick said with dignity, "that your sister has been teaching me some dark elven courting customs as well. Perhaps you could illuminate us on some of the historical precedents?"

Alek's eyes lit up at the academic invitation, but Seraphina quickly interrupted: "After you explain why you left home without word, crossed a continent, and ended up in Plegia of all places."

"Ah," Alek's enthusiasm dimmed slightly. "That's... quite a long story, actually. It involves several ancient texts I discovered about the connection between dark elven power and manaketes, and then when I heard rumors of a manakete being sold to the Grimleal..."

"Perhaps," Frederick suggested diplomatically, "we should continue this discussion over dinner? I believe Robin wished to ask about that dragon crest magic as well, and Chrom has some questions about our next moves."

"Yes!" Nowi agreed enthusiastically. "Food first, explanations later! Come on, Alek!" She grabbed the young dark elf's hand and started pulling him toward the cooking fires.

Seraphina watched them go, noting how naturally her brother moved to keep pace with the manakete, his protective stance never wavering despite her energetic tugging. "Well," she said finally, "at least he's still getting into trouble because of books and ancient knowledge. Some things never change."

Frederick's arm slipped around her waist, a gesture that still thrilled her with its casualness. "Shall we join them? I believe I saw Valvaderyhn preparing tea for Maribelle. We wouldn't want to miss their own courting dance."

Seraphina laughed, leaning into his embrace for a moment before straightening. "Lead on, Sir Frederick. Though I warn you, once Alek starts explaining ancient dark elven customs, we may be there all night."

"With you?" he replied softly. "That sounds perfect."

Later that evening, after the camp had settled and most of the Shepherds had retired to their tents, Alek sat with his sister and Frederick near one of the smaller campfires. Nowi dozed nearby, her head resting against Alek's shoulder in a gesture of trust that made his expression soften whenever he glanced at her.

"After the kingdom fell," Alek began quietly, his scholarly demeanor giving way to something more vulnerable, "Father and Mother were... concerned. Not just about the displacement of our people, but about you, sister. We'd received reports of your activities with the Shepherds, but..."

"They wanted to be sure," Seraphina finished, understanding in her voice. "So they sent their scholar son to check on their warrior daughter?"

Alek smiled faintly. "Actually, it was more than that. Mother – Queen Lailah – had been having visions. Something about the convergence of dragon power and the old magic of our people. Father – King Raptaryn – thought my research into ancient texts might be relevant."

Frederick leaned forward slightly. "These visions... did they have anything to do with the crest that appears when you use your powers?"

"Partially," Alek nodded. "Though I didn't understand the connection until..." his eyes drifted to Nowi's sleeping form. "Until I found her."

"Tell us," Seraphina encouraged gently, recognizing the look in her brother's eyes – the same one he got when discovering something in his beloved ancient texts.

"I was traveling through Plegia, following rumors about Ylissean troop movements, hoping to find you," he continued. "That's when I started hearing whispers about a 'dragon child' being sold to the highest bidder. The texts I'd studied spoke of an ancient connection between the dark elves and the manaketes, how our power was said to resonate with their dragon blood..."

He paused, unconsciously adjusting his position so Nowi could rest more comfortably. "When I found where they were keeping her, I... I'd never felt such rage. They were treating her like a circus attraction, forcing her to transform for their amusement. The crest appeared on my forehead without me even calling for it, and the power... it was like nothing I'd ever experienced."

"The dragon crest responded to your desire to protect her," Seraphina observed, exchanging a knowing look with Frederick.

"Yes," Alek admitted. "After I helped her escape, I promised I would stay with her, protect her. I didn't really think through what that meant, pledging forever to someone who measures time in centuries rather than years." He gave a self-deprecating laugh. "Though lately..."

"She's beginning to understand the implications?" Frederick suggested diplomatically.

Alek's cheeks colored slightly. "She... asked me yesterday what I meant by 'forever.' Said she'd never had anyone promise her that before, not in all her thousand years. The way she looked at me then..."

"Oh, little brother," Seraphina sighed, though her tone was fond. "Trust you to fall in love with an ancient dragon while researching family history."

"It's not... I mean, she doesn't..." Alek stammered, then collected himself. "Nowi experiences emotions purely, without artifice. She's both ancient and innocent, wise and childlike. Sometimes she'll say something that reveals her centuries of experience, and other times..." He gestured to her current peaceful sleep against his shoulder.

"And the promise?" Frederick inquired gently.

"I meant it," Alek said firmly, all trace of scholarly hesitation gone from his voice. "Whether she eventually sees me as more than a protector and friend or not, I'll keep my word. The texts speak of dark elven lifespans being longer than humans, though not as long as manaketes. However long I have, it's hers."

Nowi stirred slightly in her sleep, murmuring something that sounded like Alek's name. His expression softened immediately as he adjusted his cloak to better shield her from the evening chill.

"Mother's visions," Seraphina said thoughtfully. "Did they show you this? You and Nowi?"

"Not exactly," Alek replied. "But she did say I would find something precious in Plegia, something that would help bridge the old world and the new. Father thought she meant ancient knowledge or artifacts. But now..."

"Now you think she meant someone, not something," Frederick concluded.

"The ancient texts speak of marriages between manaketes and dark elves," Alek said, his scholar's nature emerging again despite his blush. "They say such unions strengthened both bloodlines, enhanced our natural magic. But that's not why..." he trailed off, looking down at Nowi with an expression that made further explanation unnecessary.

Seraphina reached across to squeeze her brother's hand. "Well, little brother, it seems we both found unexpected love on this journey. Though I doubt Mother and Father anticipated quite this level of diplomatic relations with other races."

"Actually," Alek's scholarly smile returned, "I found several fascinating precedents in the royal archives about Ylissean-Dark Elven relationships. Did you know that during the reign of the first exalt..."

Frederick and Seraphina exchanged fond glances as Alek launched into his historical discourse, his voice soft so as not to wake Nowi but animated with academic enthusiasm. Some things, it seemed, never changed – though the young scholar now punctuated his historical citations with gentle adjustments to ensure his manakete companion's comfort.

The mention of their parents brought another thought to Seraphina's mind. "Alek," she said, interrupting his historical discourse about manakete-dark elf relations, "have you had any word from Uncle Berethon and Aunt Hyuuan?"

Alek's expression grew thoughtful as he carefully shifted to keep Nowi comfortable. "Before I left, High King Berethon was organizing our people's settlement in the eastern territories. He spoke often of Odyn, Roy – though he still calls him Thallion – and Sarai. He worried about them, though he tried not to show it."

"That sounds like Uncle," Seraphina smiled softly. "Always trying to maintain the strong front even when his heart is concerned." She glanced across the camp where her cousins were engaged in their own evening activities – Odyn discussing patrol routes with Robin, Roy sharing tales with Lissa, and Sarai sitting close to Chrom as they planned tomorrow's march.

"Aunt Hyuuan was more direct about her concerns," Alek continued. "She made me promise to bring back word of her children's wellbeing. Though..." he smiled slightly, "I doubt she expected me to report that Sarai had captured the heart of the Ylissean Prince himself."

Frederick, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "The alliance between your people and Ylisse seems to be growing stronger in unexpected ways."

"Indeed," Alek nodded. "High King Berethon spoke of hoping for closer ties with Ylisse, though I don't think he anticipated quite so many romantic entanglements." He gave his sister a meaningful look, which she pointedly ignored.

"And how are they managing?" Seraphina asked, her voice carrying a note of concern. "The displacement of our people couldn't have been easy for them to handle."

"They're stronger together," Alek replied. "Uncle Berethon handles the practical matters of establishing new settlements and maintaining our military readiness, while Aunt Hyuuan focuses on preserving our culture and traditions in exile. She's been particularly interested in documenting our people's magic, especially after her children began displaying such strong manifestations of the dragon crest."

"Like the power Sarai showed today against Chalard," Seraphina mused. "I've noticed both Odyn and Roy showing similar increases in their abilities."

"High Queen Hyuuan believes it's connected to some greater purpose," Alek said, his scholar's enthusiasm returning. "She's been researching ancient prophecies about the convergence of dark elven and dragon power. When she heard about my studies of manakete relations, she was the one who encouraged me to expand my research."

"Which led you to Nowi," Seraphina concluded, watching as her brother unconsciously tightened his protective hold around the sleeping manakete.

"Perhaps Aunt Hyuuan's interest in these connections wasn't merely academic," Frederick suggested diplomatically.

"She always did have a touch of the sight," Seraphina agreed. "Remember how she knew Sarai would find her destiny in Ylisse long before any of us considered coming here?"

"And now look at them all," Alek gestured to their cousins. "Odyn, leading scouts and helping plan strategy. Roy, bringing laughter and light to dark times. Sarai, standing beside the Prince of Ylisse himself. Uncle Berethon and Aunt Hyuuan would be proud."

"They'd be proud of you too, little brother," Seraphina said softly. "Scholar turned protector of a manakete, wielding our people's power in defense of the innocent."

"And you," Alek countered with a slight smirk, "The warrior who caught the eye of Ylisse's most dedicated knight. I'm sure Uncle Berethon would have much to say about proper courtship protocols between our peoples."

"Gods," Seraphina groaned, "don't remind me. Between his formal traditions and Frederick's sense of propriety, we'd never make it past chaperoned tea sessions."

Frederick's quiet chuckle earned him a mock glare from Seraphina, though her hand found his under cover of darkness.

"We should send word to them," Alek said more seriously. "Let them know their children are safe and... flourishing in unexpected ways."

"Perhaps after we rescue the Exalt," Seraphina suggested. "Then we can tell them of all the ways their hopes for stronger ties with Ylisse have been exceeded."

As if sensing the conversation's shift toward future plans, Nowi stirred slightly. "Alek?" she mumbled sleepily. "You're thinking too loud again."

The young scholar's expression softened immediately. "My apologies, Lady Nowi. We were just discussing family."

"Mm," Nowi snuggled closer, still mostly asleep. "Like us? We're family now, right? You promised..."

The look of tender surprise on Alek's face made Seraphina smile. Yes, she thought, their aunt and uncle would definitely approve of how their extended family was growing in unexpected and wonderful ways.

To be continued in Chapter 9: Emmeryn