Robcina Fan

With a yawn, she sat up and stretched her arms over her head, eyes still closed. "Morning, love."

Turning and opened her eyes, she realized for the first time since waking that Robin wasn't in their bed. "Hm? Robin?" She called out drowsily.

She looked to the bathroom, but the door was wide open. Robin's cloak was missing from the back of the desk chair where he usually left it at the end of the day. She wasn't sure how he'd slipped away without waking her... but the past few days she'd certainly noticed him trying. "Where'd he go? What's he doing?" Worry took root in her gut as she pushed the covers down to her knees.

But before Lucina could get out of bed, she heard voices at the door.

"Okay, just like we practiced!"

"Yeah, I kick the door in and-"

"No kicking doors! We stroll in and wake her up sweetly and gently and then-"

"It's breakfast time!"

"Er, maybe we should give this a third attempt..."

"She's going to wake up soon Father, it's light out!"

"Very well, on three: One, two, three..."

Morgan kicked the door in anyways, making Lucina jump even though she'd been anticipating her daughters habit of bursting into rooms with theatrics, something she'd developed lately after spending the last few months travelling with Cynthia.

"Good morning, Mother!" She chirped when she saw Lucina sitting upright. Morgan strolled to one side of the bed with a tray in her hands. "How are you doing?"

Confused, Lucina looked over at her husband as Robin sat down with a second tray of food in his lap. "I'm okay... What is this?" She asked looking back and forth at her family.

"Breakfast in bed!" Robin replied, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. "Dig in!" There was a pause as he looked at the food and winced. "Or if you want to skip breakfast and get right to today's activities, we can do that too! We have a busy day ahead of us!"

Lucina's brow furrowed as she took in both husband and daughter. Robin appeared to have raw egg on his shirt and milk on his pants. On the tray in his lap was a plate with scrambled eggs - butchered, more accurately. One slice of bacon was charred and the other looked undercooked, a strange feat he accomplished since they should've been cooked in the same pan. Looking at Morgan's tray, a piece of toast was burnt on one side and on the other was still white. She saw crumbs at Morgan's mouth and recalled how a moment again Robin said they should try a third time. Did Morgan eat the first piece? Steam rose from a cup of water on the tray as well, and she asked, "What's that?"

"Tea!" Morgan replied with a grin.

"It's water..." Lucina pointed out. And she'd just told them yesterday that tea had to steep before being served! She was no chef, but she was definitely the one who cooked since Robin was a terror in the kitchen and Morgan seemed to have inherited that trait.

But neither had lost the big smiles they were wearing and she raised a brow. "Um, why did you make me breakfast in bed?" She asked with a nervous smile of her own.

"Because it's your birthday!" Robin answered.

"Happy birthday, Mother!" Morgan set the tray down on the nightstand and gave Lucina a tight hug. "I love you!"

Lucina blinked, then cast her eyes to the desk where a calendar was propped up against a stack of tomes. Sure enough, today was her birthday, circled in red with little hearts drawn on it.

"Oh..." She sniffled as tears came to her eyes. "I didn't even..." She rubbed her eyes with one hand and felt Robin wrap his arms gently around her shoulders. "I forgot."

"Well, don't worry. Chrom's throwing a small celebration at the castle, so we'll visit the little Lucy after you eat and get ready, then we'll head up to the lake and have a picnic, and then we're going shopping at the market, and then I made reservations for us at the new bistro that opened, and then we'll retire here! Morgan bought a fantasy novel she wants to share with us, so we'll listen to it when we get back."

A few tears fell. Today was perfect. Too perfect.

"I love you. Both of you." She gave Robin a kiss and then kissed Morgan on the cheek, then looked at the trays beside her. She blanched.

"Lucina, you know you don't have to hold onto my hand all day, right?" Robin asked, turning his head to look at the beautiful princess pressed close at his side. "I'm not going anywhere, I promise," he added, laughing softly as his wife continued to cling to his hand all the more fervently.

"Nope. I shall not," she murmured in reply, nuzzling her head against his shoulder.

"Mhmmm. Why is that?" Robin asked

"So I can ensure you're still here," Lucina answered. She lifted her head, peering up at him with glimmering azure eyes. "Now that I have you back, I don't intend to let you out of my sight."

Oh. Robin cursed himself inwardly, realizing at once just how flippant he was being. It had been only a couple of hours since Chrom had found him in the same field he'd first woken up in years before. Mere hours since the tear-filled reunions with his wife and his friends. He'd been so wrapped up in it that he'd almost forgotten. Forgotten that while for him it seemed as though no time had passed, for her, it had been two long, painful years.

"I-I'm sorry. I… I'm being inconsiderate, aren't I?" He grimaced, taking his turn to squeeze her hand back. He had to reassure her that he was there and wasn't going to leave and put her through that all over again.

"It's okay," Lucina assured him, flashing a gentle smile. She reached over, placing her free hand on his arm. "You came back to me. That's all that matters."

"I'm glad too, it's just… I should have been more considerate. Since I've been here I've barely considered what you must have gone through." He gave her hand another squeeze, his voice falling into a faint whisper. "You deserve better from me than that."

"Robin I…" she trailed off, her eyes misting up as she gazed at him. "I did miss you terribly." She squeezed his hand tighter. "I don't blame you for what happened. You were just doing what you believed was right. But I… I just don't know if I could bear to go through that again."

"Hey, Lucina, don't worry, okay? I am here now. As you said, that's what matters, right?" Robin assured her, trying his best to smile as confidently as he could.

"Yes… yes, you're right." She sniffed, bringing a smile of her own to her lips. Tilting her head, she dabbed to her face to draw away the wetness from her eyes. She rested her head back against his shoulder, murmuring, "It's just like you told me back then. That you'd be there at my side no matter-"

Lucina stopped suddenly, bolting upright. A laugh fell from her throat, and Robin was surprised to find a look of wonder on her face. "Gods, Robin, I just realized. Your promise. When we visited Bathrealm, you told me you'd stay with me no matter what. That even if you died, you'd come back. And you did. You came back."

"I-" he frowned, the realization hitting him. He had done that, just like he'd promised back then. Maybe that was how he managed to claw his way back to life. What better motivation than to keep a promise to the one you love? "Huh, I suppose I did." He said, his frown turning to a grin as it fully sunk in. "I did say that, didn't I? That it was my job to pull off the impossible. And I did, thanks to you. Because you were my motivation, Lucina. I had to keep my promise to you."

Lucina laughed too, nuzzling her head close to the crook of his neck. "Robin?" She asked at last.

"Yes?"

"I truly am blessed to have found you in my life. Thank you for being here for me, by my side.'"

Robin blinked. It seemed like it was his turn to tear up. "Lucina?"

"Yes?"

The buzzing rumble of his phone sounded as it vibrated against the table, stirring him from his slumber an instant before the shrill ringing of the alarm sounded. Dragging himself out of his futon, Robin scrambled for the device. Today was the rare occasion where he managed to seize it on his first try, swiping the screen to silence the chorus of beeps.

For a moment, he laid there, half on the floor, half still entangled in his covers. With a groan, Robin pushed himself into a sitting position before taking a look at his phone. Rubbing sensitive eyes from the brightened screen, his vision began to clear.

September 18th. Wednesday. It was time for school.

Heaving himself to his feet, Robin set about gathering his things, shoveling his books and other supplies into his bag. A quick shower later, he stopped by his room again to change into his uniform before heading downstairs. The lower level of the house was still and empty when he got there. No real surprise there. Chrom would be at work already, and Lucina got up early for kendo training before school. From the sounds of activity downstairs, he'd heard while getting ready, and the absence of Cynthia's bag now told him she must have only left a few minutes ago.

So much for waiting. Though I suppose I could still run into her or one of the others at the station, he mused. Yawning, he stopped by the fridge, picking up the boxed lunches he'd prepared the evening before, juggling his phone, schoolbag, and lunches at the same time, Robin checked the time while fumbling the slip boxes into the bag. Not much time left, gotta hurry to make the train. Toast will have to do for breakfast. Setting his phone down on the counter, he popped two slices into the toaster, managing to zip up his bag at the same time. A few moments later they popped out with a chime. He ate quickly, then hurried for the door, slamming it behind him. Then immediately ran back inside, snatching up his phone.

Okay, now I can go, Robin told himself. He paused, running through a quick mental checklist to make sure he didn't forget anything else. Satisfied, he headed back outdoors.

. . . . .

As packed as the train was, Robin saw neither Cynthia nor any of his other friends there. They must have all gotten on earlier trains. Shrugging, Robin decided he would try to continue reading the book he checked out from the library, provided he managed to find a seat.

The train arrived a few moments later, screeching as it came to a stop at the station. Robin hurried inside, managing to find an empty seat before the big rush as the other commuters jostled for places aboard. Reaching into his bag, he fished out the book: Expert Fishing. There was quite a bit left, it would probably take today and at least another train ride before he finished it. It should help make his fishing trips more effective, however. Which meant more fish he could then trade for gems with that weird cat that hangs out at the old shrine and then use those to buy-

Robin frowned. Do you ever stop and think to yourself, 'Wow, my life is weird'? Because I didn't until this year, he thought, directing the statement at no one in particular. Shaking his head, he resumed reading. Weird or not, it was a good use of his time. Maybe he'd try to finish the book that evening if he didn't find anything else to do then.

Minutes passed as he flipped through the pages

+ until at last, he arrived at his destination. Returning the book to his bag, he slung the strap over his shoulder. There was only a short wait before enough people ahead of him disembarked so that he could slip through the packed car and out onto the station. Then, he was off on the short walk to school.

. . . . .

Robin slipped his shoes into his cubby before bending down to put on his school shoes. Just as he finished he felt a buzzing of his phone in his pocket. He ignored it, continuing to do up the laces. Again his phone rumbled, signaling another notification. Then a few moments later, another rumble. Then a fourth. Sighing, Robin brought it out, opening up the screen.

Let's see… Cynthia wants to hang out after school… and so does Inigo… and Owain… and it looks like the photography club is holding an optional meeting today. He sighed and put the phone away. He could decide which to do later once school ended. So many Social Links, so little time.

Heading to the home room, he found the class already half-full, students mostly out of their seats in groups chatting with one another. Owain and Severa were already there as well, and, as was typical of them, bickering about something. He knew the pattern, Owain did something foolish or eccentric that annoyed Severa and then they'd argue about it. Had it been earlier in the day, Robin would have set in to mediate it, but it was frankly still way too early for him to care.

Taking his seat and willing himself not to register what they were going on about this time, Robin unpacked his school supplies.

Just as he finished, his phone buzzed once again. Momentarily annoyed and half considering just silencing the damn thing, Robin glanced at the screen, only to pause as he saw the sender. It was from Lucina.

"TO ROBIN. THANK YOU FOR SPEAKING TO ME YESTERDAY. I ENJOYED TALKING. LET'S DO IT AGAIN SOMETIME WHEN I AM NOT BUSY. Y/N?"

Robin found himself smiling as he always did at her odd manner of texting. It was cute. As for the message, of course, Wednesdays were one of the days Lucina was busy with Kendo practice after school, so that was a no-go. Besides, he had to still spend time with his other friends and continue to deepen those bonds.

"Sure, I'd love to. Next time you're free?", he texted back. He moved to slip his phone back into his pocket, only to stop, considering it for a moment, remembering the extra boxed lunch he'd brought today. When he'd cooked the extra meal last evening, he hadn't had anyone particular in mind for it. He figured he'd decide which of his friends to split it with later, maybe see if any of them hadn't brought anything. But now… maybe he should ask Lucina. That way they could spend some time together sooner. He certainly wanted to, but…

Would that seem too weird? He still didn't quite know how the two of them stood or how Lucina really felt about him. Was it too soon to make any move, or-

"Hey, what are you sitting there blushing about? Get a love letter from your crush or some other sappy nonsense?" Severa interjected, turning around in her chair to stare at him in almost incredulous amusement. Evidently, he had failed to notice her and Owain finishing their little morning spat.

Only then did Robin realize that he was indeed blushing. "No, it's- Just, mind your own business," he told her, his words doing nothing other than heightening her amusement. He hastily put his phone away, doing his best to brush aside her comment.

"Sure, whatever you say, Romeo," Severa grinned, rolling her eyes sarcastically at his own glare.

Mercifully it was then that their homeroom teacher entered, beginning the school day proper. It was rare that Robin was thankful to see the man, but right now he'd do anything to change the subject.

Let's just hope the rest of the day goes better. I could use it better. And normal.

. . . . .

The lunch bell rang, signaling the morning's end. Gathering things, Robin gazed at the two boxed lunches inside. He needed to decide who to have lunch with.

I could ask Lucina, but… He frowned, remembering the times they'd hung out yesterday and the day before. Things were less awkward yesterday, but… I still don't know if Lucina likes me that way or not. What if we are just friends? Would sharing a lunch be too romantic, or…

He shook his head, banishing the jumbled doubts and second guesses. He'd made lunches like this for most of his other friends before. This was no different than that. Making up his mind, he sent Lucina a text. Moments later his phone buzzed, Lucina agreeing to his offer to meet him.

Heading to the rooftop, Robin found Lucina already there. As it was a school day, not to mention the fact she tended to be a stickler for the rules, Lucina was wearing her Ylisstol High uniform in the standard, unmodified fashion. The only visible accessory was her trademark long red and blue scarf that she wore with nearly every outfit of hers.

Lucina peered around intently for several moments before her eyes laid upon him amongst the other students who'd taken their lunch there. Smiling, she headed towards him, Robin doing the same to meet her halfway.

"Robin, there you are! I wasn't certain if you were already here or not, but I suppose I was just early," Lucina said, her words sounding almost half an apology.

"It's alright," Robin assured her. He laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. "I am a bit shocked you got here so quickly. So, um… shall we?" he asked, motioning for one of the benches.

"Oh, yes," Lucina blushed, taking a seat as he did the same.

Robin handed her one of the bento boxes he'd prepared the night prior. Inside was rice, pickled daikon and cabbage, and slices of crispy fried pork chops. "I know it's not anything fancy, I am still getting the hang of cooking my own things. I hope you don't mind," he explained.

"Oh, no, I don't mind it at all Robin," Lucina said. She bowed her head in thanks. "I appreciate the thought of preparing something for the both of us." She took a few bites of the food, smiling. That seemed to be a good sign.

"Don't mention it," Robin said. He laughed nervously, again. He needed to stop doing that.

"You have cooked for others before too, have you not?" Lucina asked between mouthfuls.

"Oh, uh, yes, I have. The first few times I am not sure I did the best job, I only started cooking regularly this year," Robin explained. "I guess my practicing has paid off since you and the others seem to have enjoyed it."

"I see. I really should work on my own cooking skills. My own are quite basic, I am afraid," Lucina said. She smiled again as she finished another bite, setting the half-eaten box aside for the moment. "So, how has your day been?"

Robin smiled back. For some time the two chatted, sticking mostly to small talk for the time being.

Lucina enjoyed your lunch!

You feel that your relationship is going to become closer soon…

Just as they'd both finished, a bell rang in the distance, signaling the end of lunch break and that it was time to return to class.

"Oh, look at the time. We both must get going it seems," Lucina said. She stood in unison with him, turning to hand the empty bento box to him. He accepted it, and in doing so their hands brushed against each other. They both blushed, quickly pulling away. Lucina glanced at the floor, Robin glancing off to the side.

"I- Thank you for the lunch, Robin. I really appreciate your thoughtfulness in inviting me," she assured him. She seemed to hesitate a moment, then pulled him into a brief hug. Then, blushing all the more fiercely, she hurried away, heading down the stairs back to class.

"D-Don't mention it," Robin stammered, even though she was no longer there. He was incredibly thankful Several or any of the others weren't there to see him at that moment. They'd never let him live it down.

"Oh look, over here! Are those candied apples? We should go try some!" Lucina pointed out excitedly. She seized his hand, pulling Robin along after her and she headed through the crowded streets towards one of the stalls before he could respond to her words.

Robin laughed, finding himself grinning ear to ear even as he was forcibly dragged through the festival by his wife. He was just happy she was enjoying herself. After the past several months of near-constant fighting in this world, it was just nice to have a day to not worry about all that and simply enjoy themselves. Thus when it was asked that they attend the New Year's celebration in Hoshido's capital, how could he refuse? For now, he was glad to, for just a few hours, forget the war and all the danger still ahead of them.

Despite the widespread destruction wrought on the Hoshidan capital during the Vallite attack, not to mention the war with Nohr prior, it had amazed Robin that the New Year's celebration was being held at all. Indeed, any plans for the remaining civilians to evacuate the city had been put on hold until after the celebration. However, the explanation Hinoka and Sakura had given made a great deal of sense: as the marking of a new year was incredibly important in Hoshido culture. It was a time to celebrate endings and a new beginning, A time for rebirth and renewal of bonds with those you love. To not hold the festival at all would cause much more harm in terms of lost morale than the extra time would otherwise grant them in terms of benefits.

It's a shame that the festivities here are smaller than they would normally be, Robin thought to himself, remembering the descriptions he'd been told of past years. It would certainly be worth a trip to see it as it was in happier times.

Even in its diminished state, the festival was quite a sight to behold. The entirety of the central market of the city had been packed with colorful stalls, lit by strings of many-colored paper lanterns strung overhead to crisscross the night sky. The crowded streets were filled with people, both commoners and nobility alike, all here to temporarily forget their troubles and celebrate the birth of a new year.

At last, Lucina came to a stop, arriving at the back of the line before the stall she had spotted. Sure enough, lines of candied apples shone glossy in the lantern light. Still laughing even as Lucina allowed their entangled hands to drop back to the slides between them, Robin dusted off his kimono, taking even a moment to brush away a bit of dirt that had stuck to Lucina's.

The kimono Lucina wore was a bright sky blue with a white floral pattern and a golden obi around her waist. Her hair was pulled back into a bun of traditional Hoshidan style, held in place with butterfly-shaped pins. Meanwhile, the kimono Robin wore was silver with a white trim and a geometric pattern of a deep violet. The obi around him was the same shade of purple as the pattern. Both had been selected by the two Hoshidan princesses and tailored specifically for them, despite protests from both him and Lucina that this wasn't necessary. But, as official guests to royalty, it had ultimately seemed rude to refuse such gifts.

Hopefully, they didn't look too silly or out of place in them. Or rather, he hoped he didn't. There was no doubt that Lucina had pulled the look off without flaw. She looked truly stunning in it,

"I hope Morgan isn't getting into too much trouble tonight," Lucina said, her excited grin momentarily replaced by an anxious look. She glanced around as if searching for a glimpse of their daughter 'mid-shenanigans'.

"I'm sure she'd be fine. I don't think she, Ophelia, and Kana can get into too much trouble in such a brief period of time. Remember, she also agreed to spend the other half of the festival with Inigo," Robin assured her.

"That second part doesn't inspire as much confidence as you'd think. Though I suppose Inigo is still walking on eggshells with her, even after they reconciled. That may very well keep him from encouraging poor behavior in her," Lucina conceded.

"My thoughts exactly. Though speaking of those two… there is someone else I am far more worried about getting into trouble." Robin rubbed the back of his neck nervously, already again fearing the potential outcomes of her running amok.

"Oh, Soleil…" Lucina said. She grimaced. "We really do need to curb her behavior at some point. This is getting out of hand. And I thought Inigo's philandering ways were excessive." She trailed off, shaking her head.

"Yeah… though for now I suppose we just hope for the best," Robin said.

Soon enough they reached the front of the line, Robin purchasing each of them a candied apple. With treats now in hand, they set back off into the festival. In short order, they made several more stops, from watching a group of street performers act out a play with colorful puppets, to checking out several of the other stalls, to having to quickly rush out of the way as a parade rolled through the center of the festival to the sound of drums and other musical instruments. Eventually, the two found themselves relatively alone, standing on the bridge towards the edge of the festival. It ran over one of the many streams that flowed out from the towering spire atop which sat the royal palace, currently mostly empty with so much of the royal household present at the celebrations.

"The lights are beautiful, are they not?" Lucina asked, staring out at the strings of lanterns hovering above the sea of stalls and crowds below.

"Yes, they are." Robin agreed. "Reminds me a lot of our trip to those Hot Springs in the Outrealms. I wonder if Hoshido's culture influenced Anna's resort at all. Then again, from what I know of Chon'sin back home, it seems several broadly similar cultures are present across many worlds in the Outrealms. I wonder why that is…"

He shook his head, brushing aside his musings. "Sorry, just a bit of academic curiosity on my part. Don't want to bore you with it."

"It's alright, I don't mind," Lucina assured him. She tore in half a pastry she had bought on their way to the spot, offering one half to him. It was filled with a sweet bean paste. Accepting it, the two ate in silence for a few moments, before Lucina ventured to speak once more.

"I wonder how long it will be until we can go home," Lucina said. She leaned against him, resting her head against his shoulder. "I know we cannot, not until the threat here is dealt with and our own world is safe, but…"

"I know," Robin said. She didn't have to say it. It had been too long since they'd been away, too long separated from their new family. From Morgan and Marc, the younger infant versions they'd been forced to leave behind. They were only a few months old when they were last there. If they were still that age, he didn't know how quickly time moved here relative to their own world, or even if they could use time travel to correct any such long discrepancies.

Robin leaned over, kissing her softly on her cheek. He slipped his hand around her as he finished, holding her close. "As soon as we're done here, as soon as both this world and ours are safe, we will return. I promise."

"I know," Lucina said, her turn to affirm their shared understanding, "I know we have made many wonderful new friends here, but even then I cannot help but feel homesick." She chuckled softly, adding, "Even if it is odd, that only a few years ago I would have never considered staying in that time for good."

"I am glad you decided to stay, I'd have been lost without you," Robin said. He kissed her again. She kissed him back in return.

In the distance, a gong tolled midnight. A firework shot off into the sky, raining down a shower of sparkling embers. Another followed, then more, illuminating the night with countless new stars that were born and died in each passing instant.

Robin bolted upright from bed, arms flailing against the tangle of covers entrapping him. Beads of cold sweat drenched his face, stringing his eyes to mix with the hot tears already streaming there. His heart raced, his chest tight as he found it hard to breathe.

It had felt so real. The sensation of shoving the conjured bolt into Chrom's chest, the wet of his blood staining his hands. The accusing glance from Lucina, the pleading in her eyes even as he struck her down too. Her hot blood splattered him, staining him as she died at his feet…

Robin shuddered, squeezing his eyes shut. It was only a dream, only a dream. None of it was real, it didn't happen. Only a dream…

A hand gripped his arm, snapping him out of his stupor. For an instant, every instinct burned to jolt away, but before he could he realized it was Lucina, having sat up next to him in their shared bed. He must have awakened her.

"Bad dream?" Lucina asked.

Robin nodded. He swallowed, his throat burning as he did so. He didn't feel like speaking. Not now. Not when he could still almost feel the blood staining him.

"Was it the same dream as before? The one where you killed my father?"

Though the silence was enough of an answer, Lucina still waited patiently for Robin to answer for himself. "Yes," Robin whispered, managing to speak at last. He squeezed his eyes shut, fighting against the images burned into his mind from appearing again and again.

"It's okay, that didn't happen. You made sure of it. You resisted your father's control. And the Fell Dragon's as well," Lucina assured him. She reached up, cupping his cheek to force him to look at her. Her expression was gentle, her eyes filled with compassion and understanding. Which only added to his own feelings of disgust and self-loathing.

"This one was different. I didn't just kill Chrom. I killed you too, Lucina. I saw it. It felt so real…" he trailed off, trembling as he tried to shake off the images. He shook his head fiercely, but they still came, repeating in his mind again and again. Again he found his chest tightened, his breathing becoming ragged.

"Shhh," Lucina cooed. She took his hands in hers squeezing them. "It's okay, it wasn't real. I'm here."

For a long while Robin sat there with her in silence, unable to stop shaking. Then, slowly, soothed by her continued murmurs of reassurance and simply her presence at his side, he felt his facing heart still, finding himself again able to breathe.

"It's okay, it's okay," Lucina assured him gently. She gave his hands another squeeze.

Robin said nothing for many more long moments so that when he finally spoke, his voice came as little more than a hoarse whisper. "How can you still love me? I'm still Grima. The other me is still out there? What if I lose control? Become him? I can't let that happen, I can't let him make me hurt you…"

"Robin, look at me," Lucina said. Her hands slipped up to cup his face, making him look into her eyes. "You are not him. You're not the one who did those things, who destroyed my future. That wasn't you."

Robin shook his head, the deepest pits of his self-loathing urging him to deny her words, that wretched part of wanting to blame himself for all of it. "But-" he started to say, only for Lucina to silence him.

"No, there is not but, Robin. That wasn't you. You aren't to blame for any of it. That Robin made his choices. He did those things. But you, this Robin-" She poked a finger at his chest to emphasize her point, "the Robin here, the Robin I love, made different choices. You are better than him, and not to blame for any of it."

Fresh tears began to roll down Robin's cheeks, another sob falling from his lips. Lingering guilt now mixed with the feeling of being unworthy of the unconditional love and belief Lucina had in him. He didn't feel worth it.

Lucina wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into an embrace. She kissed him softly, her closeness at last washing away his sobs. "Just remember that, Robin. You are so much better than you give yourself credit for. You feel this way because you are truly the kindest, most selfless person I've ever met. And most of all, you are the man I love. Remember that, no matter what the future may hold."

For a long moment, Robin said nothing, clinging back to her as if she were a life-raft and he was a drowning sailor caught in a storm. Then he spoke, the voice again hoarse from all the sobs. "I don't deserve this… I don't deserve your love…"

"It's good then, that it is not your decision to make," Lucina countered.

Robin let out a choking sound somewhere between a laugh and a sob. "I guess you're right there at least." While the guilt lingered still, he felt much of the crushing weight on him lessen now, as if he wasn't the only one shouldering it. His eyelids started to droop, realizing suddenly just how tired he still was.

"Come on, let's get back to sleep," Lucina said. She loosened her embrace, leaving one arm wrapped around him. Following her lead, Robin laid back down next to her, remaining close.

"Do not let your dreams trouble you, for they are not real. I'm still here, and for as long as I can, I will remain by your side," Lucina assured him. She kissed him one more time.

Then Robin could no longer resist the call of sleep, his fears for what that might bring falling away. This time, however, perhaps thanks to Lucina's presence so close by his side, he found his rest untroubled. For once, he was not plagued by dark visions of another future or his greatest fears made manifest.

Robin paced nervously. He rechecked the buttons on his suit. He'd done this many times already, several in fact, in just the past few minutes. He knew it was stupid, but he had to do something that at least felt useful. Or else he may die of the complete collapse of his nerve.

Today was quite possibly the most terrifying day of his life. An exciting, wonderful day to be certain, but a terrifying one nonetheless. In just a few moments he would go out there and marry the most wonderful and beautiful woman he'd ever known his entire life that he could remember.

Granted, the "life he could remember" capped out at about just over three years at this point, but the sentiment was there.

Robin stopped pacing, allowing himself to slump down onto a nearby chair as he attempted to relax. He looked down at his shaking hand, felt the butterflies in his stomach, and couldn't help but laugh softly at it. In a way this still hadn't sunk in, for all his nerves it still didn't feel quite real. He was actually getting married.

There had been so many weddings following the Plegian War. Chrom's and Sumia's had been the first and by far the biggest, one which he had served as best man. Then came the following weddings, as one by one what seemed like nearly every one of his friends got married as well. Until, at last, he was one of the few left single, alone, and with no prospects for love. No, not without "love" so to speak, as he loved all of his friends dearly, but rather love in the romantic sense. In truth, he'd given up hope of ever finding someone who'd love him that way: someone with whom he could spend the rest of his life.

Then Lucina entered his life. Formally, for she'd already been briefly in and out of it a few times as "Marth". He'd already fallen for her by that point in truth, from the moment he'd seen her unmasked he'd been smitten with her. But so brief had their interactions been, and with so long passing between meetings, he hadn't really put much hope in anything coming of that initial attraction. Then he met her properly, learned who she was, and… completely wrote off any hope of them being together. How could he not? She was from another time and the daughter of his best friend. A relationship would be too complicated, too much baggage. And besides, it wasn't like there had been a chance she'd felt the same way.

Yet despite every rational part of him urging him not to, he couldn't stay away. He found himself spending more and more time with her, first as comrades, then friends, and then…

He smiled, blushing as he remembered the day in that field as he offered her the flowers he'd gathered for her. Of his confession, and against all hope those feelings are reciprocated. One moment among many that followed that he knew he'd always treasure for as long as he lived.

His initial fears hadn't been unfounded. The difficulties and complexities for them from her being Chrom's daughter and those from their differing times had certainly been hurdles to overcome. Enough that many times he'd almost questioned their relationship. Almost. For, in the end, they both knew it was worth the struggles. For there was truly no other person they'd rather spend their lives with.

Behind him the door opened, Chrom entered the room. He moved up alongside Robin, grinning as he did so. "Are you ready?" he asked, putting a hand on his shoulder.

"As ready as I'll ever be," Robin answered. Speaking of baggage, he mused, pausing a moment to consider it before asking half in jest, "How about you? Ready to be the best man at your daughter's wedding?"

Chrom opened his mouth. Then shut it again. Then opened it, and shut it again. Only on the third attempt did he finally manage to form words. "I've been trying to not think about that part, you dastard. Please don't remind me, before I decide to call this whole thing off."

"You'd never dare," Robin countered. He laughed, more to try to clear the butterflies in his belly. "Come on, let's head in"

Heading out into the courtyard, Robin blinked against the sunlight streaming in overhead. In rows of chairs sat every one of his and Lucina's friends and loved ones, all gathered there to witness the wedding. And, in the case of Morgan, who turned around in her chair to wave at him, family. It really wasn't every day that your time-traveling daughter was there to attend her parents' wedding.

Taking the stand at the end of the aisle where Libra already stood to officiate over the ceremony, Robin turned and waited. The few moments that passed dragged on for what felt like an eternity as he waited and strewed in her nerves.

Then Lucina entered and the sight of her took his breath away. It was the first time he'd seen her wearing her wedding gown, all white with a blue sash the same color of her hair and eyes. She wore a circlet of azure and white flowers, while the bouquet in her hands was of the very same type as those he had picked for her that time before. It always went back to that moment, for it was there that their lives were truly bound together. In a way, today was just a reaffirming of those bonds.

Her mother, Sumia, walked her up the aisle, taking their places across from him. Robin found himself entranced as he stared into Lucina's joy-filled eyes already wet with tears of that very emotion. So transfixed was he by her beauty that he nearly missed it when Libra began to read them their vows, causing Robin to fumble over the first few lines he was promoted to confirm.

Lucina, tears of happiness now streaming down her cheeks, smiling, affirmed her own vows. She smiled as she spoke, touching Robin's heart as he looked upon it. That smile was something he wanted to protect and preserve for as long as he lived, to grant her the joy and happiness so deprived of her in Lucina's own time.

Then, with one final "I do" from each of them, they slipped their wedding bands on each other's fingers before meeting in a long, passionate kiss

Robin wet his hair in the basin before dabbing at it, trying, yet again, in vain to keep the wild strands to lay flat and in place. He stared into the mirror, switching to the comb again. Maybe I should have cut it short and been done with it, he mused, his frown deepening. Then he sighed, setting the comb down next to the basin. It was too late for that now, at any rate, meaning he'd have to make due.

He again checked the buttons of the leather surcoat he was wearing, before moving on to the cuffs and collar of the white shirt underneath. He rubbed at a wrinkle in the sleeve with a finger, wetting it in the basin a few times to try to straighten the fabric out. Then he seized his wrist with his other hand, forcing his own arm down to his side with an effort of will.

Relax, Robin, it will be fine. You're fidgeting, this isn't helping, he told himself, trying and failing to take a few slow, steady breaths to calm his nerves. It's fine, you look fine. Lucina won't mind, you look great Stop being nervous and just relax. Relax. Breathe. Relax.

He tried again to breathe in and out slowly. Yet his heart still raced. Involuntarily, he went back to peering into the mirror and trying to straighten his hair. Only, after a moment, did he realize what he was doing and forced himself to stop.

What are you even worried about? You and Lucina have been together for months. You two are already engaged for gods' sake. It's just a date, relax. Just a nice dinner, nothing to worry about, he reminded himself as he began to pace and fidget with his cuffs. This is silly. Why, Robin? Why are you worried about messing this up?

This had all been Morgan's idea, of course, his daughter having set up the whole thing. She'd insisted that he and Lucina just couldn't get married without going on a normal date like normal people would. She'd nagged and begged for days on end to get both of them to relent and give in to going on the 'first date' she'd apparently already made reservations for. Before even suggesting it, mind you.

He reminded himself to consider punching Inigo the next time he saw him. This was his fault. It was because of Morgan and him dating that Morgan had gotten the idea in her head that this was necessary. Only, just as quickly, did Robin also remind himself not to do that. Morgan's inclination was innocent enough, even if the date was ultimately a distraction from far more pressing matters.

Sighing, Robin tried one last time to get his hair to lay in place. Then, seeing the attempt futile, tossed the comb aside. He needed to get going, the reservation was for only half an hour from now. He just hoped his appearance was presentable enough. He was certain Lucina wouldn't mind, but…

I guess I just don't want to embarrass us. I've never done this before and…

Gods, dammit, why did he care so much about doing this right? When he knew full well Lucina never concerned herself about things like this?

Just relax, Robin. It'll be fine. Just fine.

. . . . .

"Don't worry, Mother, you look great! Father will love it."

Lucina frowned as she gazed into the mirror intently.. "Are you sure? Is it not a tad, understated?"

"Do you trust Grandmother? She picked out the dress, not me," Morgan countered, stepping up and giving her several reassuring pats on the back. Through the mirror, Lucina could see her beaming smile.

"I do, but…" Lucina said hesitantly. Shouldn't I be wearing something a bit more regal for such an occasion? she wondered to herself. The dress her mother had picked out for the date was a simple white, with only a few accessories in the arm of two leather belts, one braided and clasped with gold, long enough to wrap twice around her waist, the second shorter and of a simple design with a silver clasp. The jewelry she was given to wear likewise had come from her mother, being a gold bracer and armband to adorn one arm and a silver bracelet wrought to look like a chain of flowers. Unlike the dress, however, these had not been purchased in the past few days, instead coming from her mother's own collection per her position as queen.

Lucina reached up to touch the top of her head, fingers running through her hair as she felt the absence of her tiara. Both Morgan and her mother had assured her several times that she looked fine without it and that it would not go well with the rest of the outfit, not to mention that it would draw undue attention. Perhaps they were right, it would be better that the two of them were not recognized nor stood out too much during the date, as things would certainly go much more smoothly.

Still… Lucina felt oddly naked without it, so accustomed was she to wearing it. However, perhaps the events of just two weeks prior had something to do with her reluctance to part with it. After all, it had been quite the ordeal that she and her friends had embarked on into the Outrealms to retrieve. She is still not quite sure how her replacement tiara had killed those Risen, but that was a moot point now.

Without realizing it, she began to fidget with her hands, scratching at her fingers while wringing them together.

"Nervous?" Morgan asked. She was still grinning even as her eyes looked almost thoughtful as they regarded her.

"How could you tell?" Lucina asked.

"You're fidgeting and asking way way more questions than you usually do. I mean, I'm the one who's supposed to do that. It's like my trademark! It's weird when you do it, Mother!" Morgan answered. She patted her again, this time on the shoulder. "You'll be fine, trust me. I have the whole date all planned out. You just have to go and have a good time. It should be easy. First dinner, then a nice moonlit stroll. Easypeasy!"

"I've just… never done this before," she admitted. She found herself fidgeting again, wringing her hands and staring at the floor. She had no experience with this. Sure, she and Robin had been together for a long while now, but they hadn't gone on anything so formal. How was she supposed to know how to act, how to embarrass herself or him with inexperience?

She shook her head again, failing to shake away the doubts. "How are you sure I won't-" Lucina started to ask.

"Mess up? You won't, mother, trust me. I have been on a ton of dates now and I've never messed up any of them," Morgan assured her. She gave her another slap on the back. "Just relax and remember-"

Somewhere outside, a bell chimed six times.

"Oops, no time! You need to get going now. Don't want to be late for your date!" Morgan exclaimed. She grabbed Lucina by the arm, pulling her towards the door.

"But- Morgan I-" Lucina stammered, mind a whirlwind as she found herself now abruptly thrown to the proverbial wolves.

"Not enough time! Go, go, go! You'll do fine! You don't want to be late!" Morgan exclaimed, twirling around her in a flurry of movement to begin pushing the rest of the way. In moments, Lucina was outside the door. "Have fun, Mother!" Then, with that final exclamation from Morgan, the door was slammed shut behind her.

Thrown out by my own daughter. I do not think that's usually how this is supposed to go, Lucina mused, too stunned for a moment to really know how to respond. She absently reached up to straighten her tiara, fingers passing through nothing but strands of hair. The habit was so second nature that she only now realized how often she did it. She sighed deeply, forcing her hands stiffly to her sides.

I best get going then, Lucina thought to herself at last. Morgan is right about that at least, I do not wish to be late.

. . . . .

Robin hurried through the streets of Ylisstol, occasionally stopping to check the directions Morgan had written him for getting to the restaurant she'd booked for him and Lucina. He squinted at them intently, trying to make out the barely-legible scratches that were his daughter's handwriting. She could write much clearer than this, but only when she actually slowed down and took her time. It seemed, however, that not rushing wasn't exactly in Morgan's nature.

Never mind Morgan's sloppy penmanship, I should be almost there. I can work on that with her later. Date now, don't screw this up. You got this Robin, he told himself as he tucked the slip of paper into his pocket.

Rounding the corner, Robin found the place, a bustling cafe near the heart of the city's market district. The place was already packed, with customers seated at every table outside the building and all those he could see through the circular windows that lined the wall facing him. That explains the need for reservations, Robin noted, peering around intently, searching for Lucina

"Robin, there you are!" came a voice behind him.

He turned, then froze as he caught sight of her. Lucina was always beautiful, stunningly so, but today she looked particularly gorgeous. She'd let her hair down without any tie or tiara to hold it back, allowing it to cascade around her shoulders in gentle waves. She wore a simple white dress, which somehow managed to accentuate her natural beauty than a more elaborate dress would have.

"I- Hi," Robin said lamely, his heart skipping a beat just as the words caught in his throat. He dearly hoped he wasn't staring too much and appearing as some drooling, love-drunk idiot. "You look… nice…" he managed to stammer out, his words coming in even more of an awkward jumble than his initial greeting.

Really, Robin? "You look nice"? That's the best you could do? He scolded himself, feeling his cheeks burning in embarrassment.

"Oh, so do you. Your outfit I mean, I love it," Lucina answered, her words coming haltingly. Her cheeks flushed as well, matching his. "Um, so do we…" She trailed off, hastily tucking the handwritten note away she'd been clutching. Robin caught a glimpse of Morgan's handwriting on it before it vanished from view.

I guess she needed directions as well. This calmed his nerves slightly, knowing he wasn't the only one going in blind here. "Oh, I almost forgot, here. I got you these." He thrust out his hand, producing the bouquet of white flowers he'd been holding behind his back.

"Oh, Robin. Did you get flowers for me?" Lucina asked, accepting the bouquet. She held them up to her face, taking a moment to smell their fragrance. "These are the same kind, are they not?"

"Yes, the same as when I first, you know, told you how I felt," Robin confirmed, feeling more embarrassed than he probably ought to have. "I thought it fitting, for the occasion. I hope you like them."

"Robin, of course, I love them. That was so thoughtful of you. Thank you," Lucina answered.

There was an awkward pause, neither of them making any move. Lucina opened her mouth to say something, hesitated, then shut it again.

"I…" Robin trailed off.

"So…" Lucina offered, blushing.

"Should we go inside?" Robin asked. He stiffly stuck out a hand, offering it to her.

"Yes! Shall we?" Lucina asked, seizing his hand so fiercely that Robin nearly winced.

They exchanged one last nervous glance, then went inside to make their reservation.

. . . . .

"Oh come on, that was the perfect chance to kiss, you idiots!" Morgan exclaimed from her vantage point on the rooftop overlooking the restaurant. She'd arrived there long before either of her parents, relying on the roundabout directions she'd given to buy her enough time to beat them there via a more direct route.

"Popcorn?" Cynthia asked, offering her the bowl she'd brought along.

"Not now, I need to get these dorks to stop acting dumb and do actual couple stuff!" Morgan fumed, shoving the bowl aside.

"I thought you said it was gross when your parents made out," Cynthia asked through stuffed cheeks as she munched away.

"Well yeah, normally I do. But this is different. Their wedding is in three weeks and they haven't done, like, half the normal boyfriend-girlfriend things that normal people do! This needs to go right before it's too late!"

"Well, I'm having fun either way. Let's just see how this goes and then, if it goes terribly, we step in to save the day and possibly their soon-to-be marriage," Cynthia assured her. She threw the now empty bowl behind her, not even seeming to notice as it shattered loudly against the roof tiles. "Shame Owain isn't here to help. What was so important to keep him from serious Justice Cabal business?"

"Eh, I think Severa took custody of him for the day. Something about needing someone to carry her things on her shopping trip. That poor, poor doomed fool…" Morgan shook her head sadly as she returned to spying on her parents.

. . . . .

"Oops!" Lucina exclaimed, hands shooting upward to hide her face as it turned bright red in embarrassment. She'd accidentally bumped the pitcher of water sitting at the end of the table while reaching for her own drink, spilling it directly into Robin's lap. His trousers and the entire bottom half of his shirt were now completely soaked with water, the rest dripping from him onto his chair and the floor.

"I'm- Robin, I- I'm so, so very sorry. That was dreadfully clumsy of me and- I am truly sorry for-" Lucina stammered through her fingers, feeling her face burning even hotter with every word as a part of her just wanted to curl up and die.

There was a painfully long pause before, slowly, Robin reached for his napkin, mopping up the water as best he could. "It's alright, Lucina. Accidents happen," Robin assured her, smiling gently. He chuckled then as Lucina hastily thrust her napkin into his hands as well, using it as well to dry off. He waved off the waiter who rushed over to help, quickly apologizing on Lucina's behalf. Still mortified as she was, Lucina found herself even more thankful for Robin handling it so as to not cause even more of a scene.

It was only after a few moments longer and when Robin had managed to somewhat dry himself off that Lucina finally worked up the courage to speak again. "Are you quite alright? I'm dreadfully sorry, it was an accident and very clumsy of me. I didn't mean- I hope I didn't ruin your clothes, did I?"

"Well other than the fact water is my one weakness and I am going to melt into a puddle at any moment, I'm alright," Robin answered, his jest certainly an attempt to dispel any tension from the matter. He flashed her a reassuring smile, holding out his palms in a gesture for her to relax. "It's just water, Lucina. It's no big deal, really."

"I know but… now I've gone and embarrassed both of us," Lucina told him, sheepishly, wishing she could hide from the looks the other patrons had given them during the commotion.

"I came in here certain I'd do something to completely ruin the whole date. Since that hasn't happened, I consider this a victory," Robin told her.

"Really, you do not need to jest so, Robin. I admit my mistake and ask for your forgiveness for my lack of coordination," Lucina told him. "I knew this would happen, that I'd mess this up and- make a scene or- embarrass both of us. I hope you can understand, that I am still terrible at this. I've never been on a date before and I wanted this to go well," She looked away fidgeting with her hands as her cheeks flushed again.

His response caught her completely off guard, a deep belly laugh emanating from the tactician. "No, I- I'm dead serious, Lucina. I honestly expected to somehow blow this whole thing, Truly, I've been a nervous wreck all day, terrified. It's still, I know, but…" he shook his head, the gesture carrying with it both bewilderment and bemusement in equal measure. "I am just thankful it seems like we both were driving ourselves crazy over this."

Lucina nodded. "And you are sure then that I am not embarrassing you?" she asked.

Robin reached out, taking her hand. "Of course not. And even if you did, it couldn't be any worse than I could embarrass myself."

Lucina laughed at this, finding herself at last put at ease by both his admission and jest. She smiled back.

It was about then that the waiter returned with their food. So it was that their date resumed, the incident quickly behind them and forgotten.

. . . . .

Morgan peered through the book she was holding up over her face, having ingeniously cut eye-holes to allow her to see through it. Next to her on the bench, Cynthia was doing the same, their disguises having allowed them to move to a spot with a direct view through a window to the couples' table.

"Nice recovery from father, but why are they still not making out? They started holding hands and everything!" Morgan fumed, stamping her foot in frustration.

"You are really hung up on this, huh?" Cynthia noted. She was snacking again, having slipped away to buy doughnuts from a nearby stall. She offered one to Morgan, who again shoved her hand away.

Normally, Morgan would have taken the doughnut, but this wasn't a normal situation. This was serious business after all, so serious that not even a delicious pastry could sway her focus!

"I had a plan Cynthia, and the two of them making out is part of it! This needs to be romantic! Romantic, I say!" Morgan answered, practically shouting. She threw her book up into the air to punctuate her statement, froze, and then scrambled to retrieve it before she could be spotted.

"If you say so… oooh, I wonder what they ordered," Cynthia said, peering intently through the eyeholes in her own book.

As Morgan reoriented her ingenious disguise, she was already planning their next move. Once they finished eating, she and Cynthia would need to get moving. The moonlit stroll was to be alongside the river that ran through the city, meaning before then they'd need to get to their chosen hiding spot. Luckily, there were several large trees growing by the water that would be perfectly suited for that very purpose.

. . . . .

Hand in hand, the two of them walked alongside the cobbled street that ran alongside the river, the way illuminated from the candle lamps that glowed above and the light of the full moon overhead. The air was calm and the riverside peaceful, away from the continued bustle of the market even after sunset.

"I was skeptical of her plan at first, but I think we can say Morgan's idea was a good one," Lucina noted, speaking up after a while. They'd spoken little since leaving the cafe, having been more than content to just enjoy each other's company while on the stroll

"Nerves aside, I agree. I've had a wonderful time," Robin agreed. The two came to a stop, gazing out over the water near a large oak tree. The moon shone bright overhead, its silvery disk reflected as a rippling mirror on the surface of the river. "I hope I wasn't too nervous though. As I've said before, I don't have much experience with this sort of thing and…" he trailed off, realizing he was ruining the moment.

Lucina squeezed his hand reassuringly, turning to look into his eyes. "Neither have I. But regardless, I loved this evening greatly, Robin. I hope we can continue to spend moments like these together, even after we are no longer dating and instead are properly wed."

"I'd like that," Robin agreed. He found himself entranced by her beauty there, her eyes seeming almost to shimmer where they caught the silvery moonlight and the distant flicker of the lanterns.

Slowly, the two of them began to step closer, leaning closer and closer until their lips almost met. There was a gust of wind, dry leaves swirling upon it. Amongst the soft whistle, there was something else. Almost sounding like muffled voices.

Robin stepped back, breaking from soon-to-be-kiss. "Sorry, hold on one moment," Robin apologized, holding up a hand for her to wait. He turned suddenly, sweeping a hand towards a nearby tree. "Elwind!" A vortex of air shot towards the treetops, shaking the branches and sending a flurry of leaves into the air. There were two surprised yelps, followed by the silhouettes of two figures falling from the branches into the river with two loud splashes.

"There we go," Robin said, turning back to Lucina.

"Was that…"

"Yeah…" Robin confirmed. He rubbed the back of his neck. "Morgan and Cynthia have been spying on us the whole date."

"Ah, I suppose we can scold them later then. Provided the unexpected bath isn't punishment enough." Lucina laughed, squeezing his hands tighter. "Now, where were we?"

Smiling back, and satisfied there were no more onlookers, Robin leaned in, his and Lucina's lips meeting in a long, drawn-out kiss. When they at last separated, both were blushing, yet with huge, dumb smiles on both their lips.

"This was nice. We should do it again sometime," Lucina told him.