Chapter Text
Alear readies himself and goes to check on everyone else as well. Noticing people gathering together and sharing words of hope and encouragement with one another. New and old friends share words, promising to look out for one another and hoping for a good ending. Alear vowed to do everything in his power to lead and protect everyone into a bright future.
Their goal was to take down the three Fell Dragon Shards, then go straight for Sombron. Easier said than done. Their first fight against Griss and Zephia was already challenging enough; however, their next fights were emotionally and physically horrible. First, they went up against Alear's past self. How Sombron managed to do that was almost impossible to explain, but then they had to face off against the Corrupted Queen Lumera. Seeing his mother in such a state was heart-wrenching. Vander, Clanne, and Framme hated raising their hands against their beloved Queen, but they finally were able to defeat her, and her usual self came back.
Alear was able to give his mother a better farewell. Knowing that somehow they will meet again someday. All were concerned for Alear in his fight with his mother, but he was surprisingly at peace with it. The fight with his past self was the shocker for him; seeing himself like that was like a bad dream. Something he needed to come to terms with, but seeing the emptiness within his own self and just how much he had changed in becoming Queen Lumera’s child.
With the barrier completely gone, they could finally begin ascending the Somniel towards Sombron. As they waited, Marth confessed to Alear that after the battle and the portal closes, all the Emblems, excluding Alear, will cease to exist. Realizing that this might be the last time he has a chance to talk with Marth, it filled Alear with so much sorrow. He wanted to say so much; they had been through so much, but the words were hard to express. Luckily, Marth understood Alear’s all too well. Reassuring that they will be together until the very end, and their bond will live on, even if they are separated.
The final fight against Sombron was a true test of the trust they had in all their bonds, their resilience, and their resolve to protect their world and its people. Engaging with all the Emblems, fighting against past foes, and finally taking the final strikes against Sombron. Alcryst engaged with Alear, and they were able to deliver the final against the Fell Dragin with their Dragon Bond Blast. Piecing Sombron and finally defeating him for good. All was silent for a moment before the realization that the war was finally over! The whole Divine Army cheered in victory and happiness. They all survived, and it was finally time for them to return to Elyos.
Unfortunately, with the defeat of Sombron and the portal closing, it also meant it was time to say their final good-byes to the Emblems. Words could not describe the heartwarming words exchanged between them. Words of gratitude, grief, happiness, ambition, and fondness, they each built on their bonds with one another. They may be able to meet again in another world or in the future. Only time could tell, but the hope was there. Alear had to remind himself that their bonds would remain even apart, but it did not stop the pain of seeing Marth and the other disappear before his eyes.
When they returned the Somniel to its original spot, the whole Divine Army were able to rest, knowing there was still so much to do. However, right now they all fought so hard that rest and recovery were much needed. Alcryst guided Alear back to the Divine Dragon’s room, where he knew Alear could finally have a moment to cry and express his heartache of saying goodbye to the Emblems, especially to Marth. The two had a partially stronger bond than anybody else had in the whole army. Alcryst stayed beside Alear, comforting him and discussing their recent battles to see how they may have affected them.
A couple of days passed, and once everyone was recovered and healthy, they all celebrated at the Somniel with a victory party. Friends, allies, and loved ones were safe, and the land could start rebuilding. It was Pandreo who organized this party, of course; there was music and dancing to the full extent.
The whole Somniel could feel the celebration of victory and the joys of being alive. Surviving a war that almost destroyed all. People dancing, including Alcryst, dancing with an infectious new glow around him. Even people like Vander, who have absolutely no love for parties, join in the celebration—dancing with his honorated son and daughter: Clanne and Framme.
Alear joins the rest of his friends and his beloved for a time, but remembers he and Alcryst need to talk with Diamant soon. Now is just a good time to talk to the new King of Brodia. They easily found the crowned prince and asked to have a moment alone with him.
“Ah, Alcryst, Divine One, how are you doing? Have you both recovered nicely?” Diamant asked with his usual well-mannered and gentle self.
“I’m fine, Diamant,” Alcryst reassured with a smile.
“All good here, and you look all healed up yourself,” Alear stated, grateful that his friend was alright from the battle.
“Yes, though, I must say, I’m not used to Pandreo’s kind of parties, but it brightens everyone’s spirits. Truly celebrating the victory of war and the hope for a bright future. I’m happy to see you were having fun there, Alcryst. Being so lively and free on the dance floor.” Diamant chuckled.
“Honestly, I’m just so relieved we all made it back safe and sound. I couldn’t stop myself from all the excitement.” Alcryst blushes, grateful to be complimented by his brother.
Alear peered at many of their friends dancing in glee and celebrating. Ready and excited to build a brighter future. Many others were mingling and chatting with one another, with some of the food Bunet had prepared just for this occasion. The future is shining, and Alear is ready to share it with his own partner in peace.
Returning his gaze to Diamant. “You probably already know what we wanted to discuss with you, Diamant.” Alear takes Alcryst’s hand, “As his older brother, may I have your blessing to marry Alcryst?” Diamant went silent for a moment, but to Alear it felt like it was stretching out forever. Alcryst seemed to be holding his breath, anticipating something.
After what seemed to be forever, Diamant smiled, “Of course, I would give you and Alcryst my blessing. Calling you my brother would be an absolute honour, Divine One.”
“Likewise.” Alear breathed out in relief. Both Alear and Alcryst laughed, knowing the anticipation was heavy on both og them, but this was Diamant. He was such a wonderful older brother; there is no way he would deny Alcryst happiness.
“However, I do ask that you two wait.” Diamant suddenly added.
“What?! Why?” Alcryst questioned, shocked by Diamant’s condition.
“Alcryst, you are still young; you are not at the marrying age quite yet. You two can be engaged and be promised to one another, but I think you should wait for another two years or so to be formally married, which is what I’m asking.” Diamant stood firm but benevolent.
“Two years?” Alear muttered. Diamant nodded at the Divine Dragon with sympathy.
Alear and Alcryst stayed silent, listening to everything Diamant had to say. “Now that the war is over, all countries will be rebuilding and starting a fresh start. Brodia especially needs to rebuild the relationship with Elusia. I plan to maintain peace and prevent any wars or conflicts during my time as king. To achieve that, I need all the help I can get, which includes Alcryst’s skills.”
Alcryst’s eyes went wide. What his brother was saying was true; he still had responsibilities as a prince of Brodia.
“Alcryst, I will need your help. Truly, I need all the help to change Brodia for the better. Through this war, I learned and witnessed many things that I had never experienced before—sorrow, grief, happiness, and hope. I realized how much I still need to learn and grow, especially now that I am king. I just hope Father would be proud.”
“I know he would be, Diamant,” Alcryst stated in confidence.
Diamant could sense that the Divine One and Alcryst probably wanted to get married right away, but with so much to do, there was no time for it. Additionally, he wanted to keep his brother close to help him transition into the role of king. It was selfish, but he knew it would be a rough path ahead.
“I don’t want to seem as if I’m trying to keep you two apart,” Diamant reassured as he turned to the Divine Dragon.
“I have seen just how much my little brother has grown and how happy he is with you. At the castle, I have never seen my brother smile as much as he has here. Citrinne has actually informed me how the nobles treat Alcryst. I am ashamed to admit that I had no idea. I was stuck in my own training and duties to see what was happening. That will change, I promise.” Diamant placed his hand on top of Alcryst’s shoulder, comforting his younger brother.
“Diamant…” Alcryst is grateful to have such a reliable older brother.
“Yes, that is reassuring to hear. I don’t really appreciate the way he has been treated in Brodia.” Alear nodded, “Then how about this, once things are rebuilt at Lythos Castle and you take up your duties as king, I will create a portal from Brodia Castle to Lythos, so that Alcryst can visit at any time he wishes.” Alear squeezes Alcryst’s hand tightly.
“Anytime I want? Really?” Alcryst wondered if it was appropriate to drop in on the Divine One at any moment he pleases.
“Of course, you are welcome anytime you wish. I want to make Lythos Castle your home. Whenever you are free from your duties in Brodia, the portal will be open for you to come anytime.” Alear lovingly smiled at his love.
“...” Alcryst seriously wanted to cry in glee, but he held off and just hugged Alear in gratitude and affection.
“Yes, I think that will be a good idea. I’m happy for you both. Then, is it agreed that you two wait to be married once Alcryst is of age and the relations with Elusia are established?”
Alear and Alcryst nodded, “Thank you, Diamant.” Alcryst smiled up at Diamant
“Of course; however, when you are staying at the Lythos Castle, I have another request.” Diamant nodded.
“What’s that?” Alcryst wondered.
Diamant coughed in awkwardness, “No…… uhhhh… ‘lover activity’.” Diamant's whole face blushed red.
“Wha-What!? Diamant!” Alcryst covered his face with his hands in extreme embarrassment. Why is his brother bringing up this subject!!??
“!” Alear was stunned by the sudden subject “Uhhh… wait…. That’s…” Alear coughed in embarrassment. “Where did that come from?”
“Vander has informed me that you are requesting Alcryst more often on wake-up duties. Also… uhh… I am well aware of the desires of being… a young adult and… touching the one you love.” Diamant’s usually confident and solid self turned into a blushing fool. “So no… You know, until you are married. As your older brother, I put my foot down there.”
“Seriously?! W-Why do we need to talk about this, Diamant?” Alcryst's whole body shook and turned as red as a tomato.
At first, Alear is stunned by the sudden talk about no sex until marriage, but then he admires Diamant’s overprotectiveness for his younger sibling. He peered back at his little sister, Veyle. Understanding that if she suddenly brought a lover in front of him, he would be strongly overprotective of her, too.
He smiled and nodded. “Alright, alright. You have my word, I will only engage in appropriate physical touching until marriage. Just kissing and holding hands, that’s fair, I think.”
“A-Alear!” Alcryst squeaks in frustration. Alear rubs his head in embarrassment and understanding. They could at least kiss. If they could not do anything for two years, he thinks that would be just torture.
“.... Alright, I can agree with that. I’ll at least have Vander keep an eye on you two.” Diamant stood firm on his conditions.
Alcryst was about to say something, but Alear tugged on his hand, leading him out of the party, toward the garden, “Alright then, now there is something vital that I need to ask Alcryst formally. Alone.” Alear gave a little wink to Diamant before heading off.
As the Divien Dragon and his brother went out of sight, Diamant chuckled at the adorableness of the loving relationship those two had formed. The Divine Dragon chose his little brother, a fortune many only dreamed about. He will not only be taken care of and loved, but he will be protected. That’s all that matters. Looking around the party, they were not the only ones. He took notice of other couples forming within their group.
Chloe and Merrin were already developing a very fairy-tale-like love story when they first met. However, now they are really holding each other very passionately on the dance floor. Jade and Louis already seemed to have a married couple's air about them as they ate together in peace. Boucheron and Etie were dancing hand in hand, and something was forming between Alfred and Refel. Even already formed couples like Zelkov and Kagetsu were sharing sweet kisses openly, thankful that they both came out unscathed.
Diamant watches people with glee, but a slight pang of envy stirs inside his heart. He thought to himself that it must be nice to have someone by your side. Sharing affectionate kisses and your deepest desires and secrets with and trusting them with your whole being, faults and all.
“You look to be very entranced by our group’s love stories, Prince Diamant, or should I call you King now?” Princess Ivy strolled up towards the man.
“Haha.. Technically, I am not officially king until my coronation, but I guess it’s a title I should get used to. What about you? Should I call you Queen?” Diamant smirks.
“Technically speaking, I, too, am not official until my own ceremony. So today, I just want to be myself. Just Ivy. No titles or responsibilities.” Ivy stood beside Diamant.
“Good, then right now, I’ll follow your lead and just be Diamant today.” He smiled, looking down as Ivy touched the necklace around her neck.
The one she had made with the jewel he had given her. It was an honor to see that she was still wearing it. The jewel’s beauty matched the beauty of the woman beside him, and it shone like her with the strength and resilience of her people and country.
Diamant always found Princess Ivy to be a courageous and wonderful woman. They started on opposite sides, but her beauty did not go unnoticed by the Brodian prince. The princess sacrificed everything to save her people from Sombron, ready to be called a traitor, and to defy everything, all to create a better world for them.
“Well then, Diamant.” Ivy’s gentle voice felt like it creased Diamant’s skin, “May I just say that the colour green does not suit you at all.” Ivy teased.
The comment took Diamant by surprise, “Haha… Was it that obvious?” Diamant may have kept his tone light and amused, but deep down, he was incredibly jealous. Not only his younger brother, who won the heart of their deity, but also all their comrades who were able to open up to their feelings.
“Very. So let us change your mood. Dance with me.” Ivy reached out her hand.
“....” Diamant was silent. Ivy was truly a strong person, possessing the strength to take risks and the initiative to act upon them.
“We are not the future kings and queens at the time, Diamant. We unfortunately will return to our responsibilities and duties, but that will be tomorrow. Today is a celebration of surviving the war of a millennium, and hope for a peaceful and bright future. One that people can express their love and happiness to all without prejudice or regret.” Ivy spoke with confidence and sympathy.
“Ivy...” Diamant whispered, peering down at her hand.
She understood more than anyone why Diamant was hesitant, but this is the present. Not the past or the multiple possibilities of the future. At the moment, this was a chance to express their genuine feelings of admiration and affection for each other. An opportunity to form something right now that they could build and work towards together, so their countries could create a better relationship and let them have a chance to be together. Not just allies, but as their own partners in peace
He wanted to be open to his feelings and get to know Princess Ivy better. To express his relief when he saw the woman standing safe and sound after the battle had finished. However, he could not express anything. He was about to be King of Brodia, and she would be crowned Queen of Elusia. Currently, there are allies, but tomorrow, when they return have to their kingdoms, they must confront the political issues and troubled history of their countries. He could be just Diamant right now, not a prince or a future king, but he was too scared of what tomorrow could bring.
“Thank you for the kind invitation, Princess Ivy, but I should decline. I know you and I will build a stronger relationship and bring prosperity to our two countries.” Diamant bowed and began to walk away.
“I’m surprised at you, Prince Diamant. “ Ivy’s hurt tone was loud and clear. “You choose to deny your own feelings. I honestly did not think you would be a coward. It’s disappointing.”
Yes, he was indeed a coward. He was too scared of the backlash from his country's nobles or the multiple other possible issues they could face if he acknowledged his feelings. He was not sure if he could handle the risks.
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Alear led Alcryst into the garden, where they were fortunate to be the only people around. Everyone else was likely enjoying themselves at the party, just as Alear had hoped. A quiet moment, just the two of them, standing on top of the bridge that went across the small river of the Somniel. Enjoy the beauty of the wisteria tree and the flowing sounds of the water.
The sky was clear of clouds, and a light breeze enhanced the beauty of the weather on Somniel. As the wind blows, it causes the wisteria’s petals to fall all around them. Making this the perfect place for Alear to fulfill his promise. Additionally, they could discuss their plans in more detail in private.
“Alear,” Alcryst called out beside him.
“Hmm?” Alear turned to face his beloved.
“I’m sorry…” Alcryst looked disappointed.
Alear knows where Alcryst was in his thoughts and sympathises with it. Knowing things had to be rebuilt, and many changes were on the way. However, Alear took notice that Alcryst did not bow or look away from him; he looked at him straight in the eyes in confidence.
“I thought you weren’t going to apologize anymore.” Alear places his hand on Alcryst's cheek, smiling in comfort. “I understand where Diamant is coming from. Technically speaking, I am thousands of years older, and things will be busy for a while with rebuilding.”
Alcryst chuckles at his bad habit, “I know, but I honestly was so thrilled that this war is finally done and we won. After our… ‘talk’ in your room, I couldn’t stop imagining us being married afterwards.” Alcryst leaned into the hand, placing his own hand on top, and his other hand rested on Alear’s shoulder. “We agreed to wait… but I really don’t want to.”
Alear pulled Alcryst up to meet him in a tender kiss, “I know exactly how you feel.” Alear whispered as he leaned closer against Alcryst. “Two years… Sounds so short, but still seems so far away.”
They stay in silence for a moment, just staying in the moment with just the two of them. The beautiful sensory surrounds them in this romantic and quiet moment.
“Remember, you will be able to visit me in Lythos whenever you wish to, and I’ll make sure to come to Brodia when things aren’t busy as well, okay?” Alear kisses Alcryst’s forehead.
“Yes, thank you, Alear. I’ll visit so much that you’ll probably get sick of me.” Alcryst playfully said as he chuckled.
Alear laughed, “Never.” He responded directly, bringing Alcryst in for another sweet kiss. “Even though we’re waiting, just calling you my fiancé feels just as wonderful.”
Prince Alcryst of Brodia, the fiancé of the Divine Dragon Alear, just saying that in his head makes Alcryst’s face heat up and smile in absolute joy.
“Yes, it does,” Alcryst whispers.
“So with that,” Alear takes out the jewel Alcryst gave him. With Ivy's help, Alear was about to transform it into a beautiful necklace for him to wear the gemstone. Keeping it with him always, “Help me put this on?”
Alcryst takes the necklace and looks at the gemstone in awe. Alear made sure not to change a thing about the small gem, just placing it into a pendant to keep it safe at all times so that he could wear it around his neck. Keeping Alcryst with him always.
He then held Alcryst’s left hand and adjusted the Pact Ring’s size to place it onto Alcryst’s ring finger. “Will you marry me, Alcryst?”
Alcryst bursts into a joyful laugh, “Seriously? Do you really have to ask after we just got my brother’s blessing, and talking about being called fiancés?” His face flushed with happiness, and his eyes shone brightly.
“Yes, I wanted a proper answer, remember? It was my vow to you.” Alear giggled. Was this cheesy? Super cheesy, but he wanted this to be a moment of happiness, not disappointment. They both hated the idea of waiting, but that was not going to ruin this.
Alcryst could feel his heart leaping for joy; he had never been this delighted in his whole life. “Yes, of course I will.”
Alcryst encircles Alear’s neck with his arms, placing the necklace around it. Keeping his arms around Alear's neck, Alcryst pulls the Divine Dragon closer to whisper in his ear. “Thank you, Alear, for everything. For waking up and coming into my life, for saving our world, keeping everyone safe, and choosing me as your partner.”
Alear’s breath hitched. Alcryst was always so sweet and earnest, “I should be thanking you for all your support and your thoughtful kindness. Being around you always makes me feel warm and safe. I know you’re always protecting me, both on the battlefield and in everyday life. Let’s create a future where we can live together in peace.”
Alcryst nodded against Alear’s shoulder. Pushing his head up so his lips could meet Alear’s. Their arms wrapped around each other’s bodies, exchanging loving, passionate kisses. They held each other for a while longer before it was time to rejoin the party.
There, they announced their engagement, and Alear was so proud that Alcryst stood tall as people cheered and congratulated them. Many of their friends and allies spoke to them personally about their plans, with Citrinne and Alfred being especially enthusiastic and wanting all the details.
As the day came to an end, it became clear that tomorrow would be the start of things moving and rebuilding. The royals and retailers begin to leave, promising to make strong and lasting allies in each Kingdom and Queedom. Alear makes arrangements for the rooms to be prepared for Veyle, Refal, Nel, and the Four Winds, who will have residents in Lythos, just as his stewards do.
It was bittersweet. The once lively and full Somniel was now quiet and empty. With the newfound peace, it was time for everyone to return home and resume their old lives.
A week goes by, and the Divine Dragon coronation has arrived. Becoming the Divine Dragon Monarch, protecting the rings as his mother wished. Everyone was here together again to celebrate the crowning of their friend and leader. Glowing with a future they can all see as bright. There will be bumps and issues that will need to be handled, but there is hope ahead.
Alear wishes to share this time with Marth and the other Emblems, but after closing the portal and saying their goodbyes, he was unable to summon the Emblems again. However, he will try again and again, because it may work someday. One day, he may be able to talk with all of them again in the future.
After the ceremony, Alear greets and thanks everyone for coming. When he finds Alcryst, they slip away as things start to slow down. Two years... seems like a short time, but it will feel like an eternity. However, they will keep their promise and be patient. With the land being rebuilt and alliances forming in all four Kingdoms and Queendom. They were going to be busy, but just taking this one little moment of peace with his beloved would be worth it, even for only a second.