Christmas

The Black Bulls watched in amusement as their resident playboy pace frantically across the common room. Luck laughed, adding to the chaos with random shots of lightning that the spatial mage was able to avoid with his magic despite his state.

Having only entered on the scene, Noelle and Asta felt a bit of pity for the brunet, prompting them to ask the million dollar question.

"Uh, Finral-senpai?" Asta called cautiously, the two teens backing up and shivering at the near feral state of the brunet as his head whipped to face them. Feeling Noelle prodding at his back, Asta gulped and continued, "Uh, what are you doing?"

"It's almost time and I can't find it!"

Everyone blinked, confusion clouding them.

"Do you know what he's talking about?" Magna whispered rather badly to Vanessa. The alcoholic could only shrug taking another swing of her bottle.

"Um, what are you talking about?" Noelle wondered.

Summoning a portal, Finral stuck his hand through, yanking out a calendar and shoving it in the pair's face, pointing at a circled date.

"IT'S NEARLY CHRISTMAS, I HAVEN'T BOUGHT ANY GIFTS, AND MY MONEY IS MISSING!"

"That money was yours?" Gauche spoke up lazily from his place by one of the tables. He held a carving knife as he whittled away at a piece of wood, "I used it all."

Finral gaped at the younger man as he rushed to him, slamming his hands on the mirror user's shoulders as he shook him in his frustration.

"WHY?!"

Guache scowled as he pushed the spatial user off him, turning back to work on his carving. "Marie needs more presents." He answered as if that was an acceptable answer.

Finral curled in on himself, pulling at his hair in frustration. 

"There's still time, Finral~" Vanessa assured, "There's still a week left. I'm sure there's a lot of shops having special deals if money's an issue. Plus, whoever's your taste of the week, probably won't mind if all you get them is a pretty piece of jewelry."

"This isn't just some girl!" He scowled, much to the group's surprise.

Finral was a pretty laid-back guy. It was rare for him to show his displeasure so openly. Vanessa tilted her head in thought before a sly grin graced her lips, much to the spatial user's wariness.

"Oho~ And could this girl be—" Finral was quick to summon a portal to flash to the other side of the room to slap a hand over the witch's mouth, pushing her against the sofa in his urgency.

"Would you shut up about it!"

"Am I interrupting?"

The group snapped their heads to the entrance where their vice-captain stood, taking in the scene with a raised brow.

Vanessa coughed to gain Finral's attention, realizing the compromising position she was with him. The spatial mage glared before his eyes widened. Paling rapidly, he scrambled away from the witch, stuttering an explanation to the violet-haired mage.

Delphia rose a hand, her face as blank as ever.

"What you do on your off time is of no matter to me," She ignored the way Finral sputtered as she continued, "That is unless you are causing me more work to deal with."

Her eyes roamed across the room as she nodded, noting everyone was accounted for, "With the growing amount of stars the Wizard King has been bestowing us, we've decided your hard work should be justly rewarded."

The group stared in surprise as they each caught a bag of coins and stared at their vice-captain in confusion.

She smirked, waving her hand lazily at their rewards. "A holiday bonus. With Christmas on the way, the squads are being given a rotational holiday. Usually, our squad is exempted due to the punishments given, but that's been redacted this year, so congratulations. I'll be in my office if anyone needs me."

The squad cheered already thinking of their own plans and how they'd spend their money. Vanessa grinned, throwing an arm over their spatial user's shoulders.

"Well, what are you waiting for, hotshot? Don't you have gifts to buy," She winked.

Finral's eyes widened before his eyes hardened, fist clenched in determination. "I got this!" He affirmed, summoning a portal to town as he double checked for his money.

"Good luck, Finral!" The witch cooed, waving off the brunet.

* * * * *

Finral mumbled depressingly through the town, ignorant of how citizens stared at him warily and dragged their children away, drowning in his own depression. He had spent hours going from tore to store, but he couldn't find anything that suits his violet haired friend.

"Look what the cat dragged in. Hello brother."

Finral jumped, turning around in shock. "Langris! What are you doing here?"

"What I do is no business of yours," The younger boy sniffed haughtily, smirking at the Black Bull. "Though you looking more pathetic than usual made me curious. What? Stuck on mule duty again, brother dear?"

Finral only laughed knowing this was just Langris being himself. Rather than lie, the brunet rubbed the back of his neck nervously, a light blush coating his cheeks. "Actually, I'm looking for a gift for someone," Finral sighed, "But I have no idea what to get them."

In regards to their houses, the Rotta ranked higher than the Vaude houses despite a marriage uniting the families. Delphia could get anything she desired, especially when her father loved to dote on his only child.

Langris' eyes narrowed at his half-brother. Seeing the blush on his cheeks, he scowled already knowing who Finral was planning to buy a gift for. It always grated on his nerves growing up to see him acting like such a lovesick puppy to his cousin, even following her around like one.

Though thinking about the young woman, Langris began to have conflicting opinions. He could always leave his brother to his lonesome self, but the thought of Delphia getting a terrible gift chaffed at his conscious. She was the heir to the Rotta household, and it would be terrible if someone affiliated with the Vaude family gave her anything less than perfect for the holidays.

Huffing, he strode past while Finral only watched him silently. The Black Bull could only slump his shoulders as he moved to continue his search, only to stop when Langris called back to him.

"She's a history nerd. Try an antique store."

Finral twirled around with wide eyes, having not expected any advice from his brother. As he was about to yell his thanks, he stopped himself and only smiled softly as Langris faded into the crowd.

Feeling his determination growing once more, he grinned, and with a skip to his step went on to search for the nearest antique store. He couldn't let his little brother's advice go to waste after all.

* * * * *

"Finral, hurry and come out! We can't start without you!"

"I'll be out soon!" He called, scrambling to finish tying the bow on his gift. Finral grimaced at the poorly wrapped present, but hopefully the actual contents would more than makeup for it. 

Leaving it on his desk to grab for later, he grabbed one of his thicker cloaks as he rushed out to meet with the rest of the squad. Besides their private rooms, which each had a magical item to keep them warm, the rest of the base was much colder with the season's lower temperatures.

Entering the common room, Finral took in the decorations the group had put up during their break together to celebrate the holidays. They even had a tree set up in one of the corners with presents piled beneath it.

"Finral-senpai!" Asta waved, "You're finally here!"

The brunet laughed as he plopped down on an empty space on the couch, thanking Charmy as she handed him a mug of hot chocolate. Taking a sip, he set out a satisfying sigh, feeling himself warm up. Finral joined in the festivities of the group, laughing and drinking as they enjoyed their time together.

"Presents!" Magna grinned, practically diving at the pile. It seemed everyone had the same thought as they had gotten a little something for each squad member. With the present divided, they all began to dive in, awing at their gifts.

Finral watched Delphia as she opened each gift with care, smiling and appraising each present with a gentle, fond smile. Swallowing nervously, he took a deep breath as he stood, ignoring how the group stared with him in confusion before bursting into shocked whispers as he made his way to Delphia.

"Phia... c-can you come with me for a bit?" He stuttered out, staring into her cyan eyes.

Delphia blinked. She noted the brunet's nervousness and couldn't help but feel rather proud of how he continued to make eye contact despite it. A small smile graced her lips as she rose from her seat.

"Lead the way."

* * * * *

Leading Delphia out into the hall, Finral took a few deep breaths to calm himself before turning to face her. Delphia was as composed as ever, but her eyes held a glint of interest as she stared at the fidgeting spatial mage. Summoning a portal, Finral was careful as he took out his poorly wrapped gift, holding it out to the violet-haired mage.

"I-uh... I got this for you," He smiled shakily, "I know it's not wrapped very well but I saw it in town, and I thought—"

"Thank you, Finral," Delphia cut off his rant, gently taking the gift in her hands, "Can I open it?"

The brunet blinked but nodded, hiding his fiddling hands behind his back as he watched her open the gift.

Delphia hummed as she ripped off the paper, carefully wrapping the ribbon around her wrist to keep for later. Taking the lid off the box she blinked, eyes widening as she took out a beautifully crafted, ornamental case. From the details of the design and the minute dents and ageing in the metal, she deduced that the object was quite old. There weren't many stores that still sold this style of ware anymore. 

Her fingers danced reverently over the relief forms of several constellations along the sides of the metal casing. With gentle fingers she lifted the lid, a gasp nearly escaping her as lovely melody began to ring out into the corridor.

"This is..."

"I-I know it's not much, but I remembered you loved the piano and history, so..." Finral trailed off as he felt a soft pressure against his cheek. His eyes widened as his face heated as he realized Delphia was standing mere inches from him, eyes expressing all the thanks that she would not show on her face. He gaped at her as his hand rose to touch his cheek where he could feel a lingering tingle from her touch.

"It's beautiful, thank you, Finral."

Finral smiled, his hand dropping to reach out and caress a lock of her long violet hair between his fingers.

"You're welcome."

"Yoohoo ,lovebirds~ Look up!"

The two looked over at the entrance to see the rest of squad watching in shock or grinning at them. At the witch's words the pair looked up. Delphia blinked in surprise while Finral nearly fainted from how quickly the blood rose to his cheeks once more as he realized what was hanging over their heads.

Unnoticed by the brunet, cyan eyes watched him in amusement, a knowing smile on her lips. Taking the initiative, a lithe hand reached out, grabbing the collar of his cloak to pull him closer. 

Purple eyes widened in shock, a gasp drowned out by a soft touch pressed against his own. Finral froze for a second before his eyes closed, hands moving slowly to rest on her lips.

Feeling the pressure disappear, Finral's eyes fluttered open. His shocked purple met with soft cyan as Delphia held the music box to her chest between them.

"Merry Christmas, Cucciolo."

*puppy in italian

New Years

Delphia yawned, stretched her arms above her head as she exited the Magic Knights' Headquarters. The year was coming to a close and she's already given her final reports, seeing as the Black Bulls had no missions to be assigned until the next year. A day of free paperwork was rare nowadays, less Delphia was forced to take a break by one of her colleagues, so she'd usually spend it doing some personal research or catching up on some sleep.

Today she felt unusually restless, so she took a stroll around town rather than return to the base. She hummed under her breath as she took in the busy streets, many citizens roaming around much like herself to pass the time before the countdown that would take place in the town's main square in the coming hours.

"It's rare to see you out like this."

Delphia looked over her shoulder, nodding politely at the taller mage, as he quickened his strides to walk alongside her.

"Good afternoon, Leone. Not training with Leopold or the squad?" She questioned, knowing how much a training freak the trio of Vermillions were. They really didn't know the meaning of too much less it punched them in the face *cough cough* Sister Theresa *cough*.

"With the year coming to an end, I find it only right to present the squad with a well-earned break. Many have gone off to celebrate the New Year with their families. Others chose to remain behind as there are some missions that must be done, such as patrols. They are a good squad. I will surely award them later on for doing their duty." Fuegoleon mused.

Delphia inwardly sweatdropped. It was a simple question, though she was fortunate enough that he hadn't fallen into his habitual lectures.

"Why are you out here, Leone? You don't usually come out into these parts?" Delphia tilted her head in thought. They were currently strolling through the parts of town that catered more to those of the lower-class. There would be a few nobles, but royalty very rarely came around these parts unless they were on official business.

"I was searching for you," Fuegoleon answered honestly, "I was patrolling the area and was on my way to headquarters in hopes of meeting you."

Delphia's brows furrowed. Usually, any meetings between herself and Fuegoleon was scheduled through letters as the two were quite busy being a captain and vice-captain.

"Why is that?" She asked warily.

Seeing him stop in his tracks, Delphia paused hesitantly, feeling a rare sense of trepidation as his purple eyes stared down into her.

"I apologize for my actions, Delphia, but this was the only ploy that wouldn't result in you escaping us."

Her lidded eyes narrowed as she took a step back from the Crimson Lion. "Us?"

"Hello, Delphia."

Her eyes widened as her right arm was hooked with another's pinning it to their side. Her head whipped to her left as the same was done to her other arm, keeping her firmly in place between the two men. Her cyan eyes were lidded but filled with betrayal as they stared up at Fuegoleon. The eldest of the trio only smirked, nodding at their silver-haired companion in greeting.

"You're late."

Nozel huffed, glancing at them from the corner of his eye as he took the lead, the two men practically carrying Delphia between them.

"Late? I come at the most opportune moment," He snarked.

"And where is it you two are taking me?" Delphia cut in.

"Silva Castle."

Delphia rolled her eyes, slumping in her position, resigned to her fate.

* * * * *

The violet-haired mage wasn't surprised to see the elaborate decorations awning the walls of the castle. The royal families were always excessive when it came to celebrations within the kingdom. She sighed heavily as she was dragged and left in her usual room, maids already stationed and ready to prep her for the banquet that was to be held tonight.

She took the maid's care in stride, allowing them to do as they ordered. It would be too much work to try and escape anyway and she'd rather avoid irritated glares and a lecture if she did do so.

Slipping the dress given to her, Delphia hummed, admiring the softness of the fabric against her skin. While much too revealing for her tastes, it was a gorgeous dress and comfortable. The fact that it also gave her excellent mobility was a plus as well. Delphia held back a smile. Her boys knew her well.

Delphia didn't care for appearances, but the maids pampered her with a bath and a full body massage despite her protests. The sun had already begun to set once they finished with their hair and dressing her. Grabbing a furred shawl to keep her warm, Delphia gave her thanks and dismissed the maids. With a final look in the mirror, Delphia sighed and made her way out.

She stopped in the doorway in surprise, seeing two forms already waiting for her.

The two captains stopped in their conversation as they took in the vision before them. Fuegoleon cleared his throat and smiled at their youngest member, holding a hand out in invitation.

"You look lovely, Delphia."

"It's not as if you two haven't chosen everything I'm wearing," She pointed out with a sigh as she took his hand, "But thank you, Leone. Have you two been waiting long?"

At the question, Nozel snapped out of his daze, crossing his arms with a huff, "It took you long enough to come out."

"I assure you, Delphia, we had only been waiting for a few minutes." Fuegoleon chuckled as he cut in before a fight could break out between the two.

Nozel glared but quickly brushed it off as he adjusted his cloak, and he held out an arm for Delphia to hold. The violet haired mage blinked, brows furrowing as she looked between the two.

"Are you... both escorting me?" She wondered.

The two men quirked a brow as they shared a look and nodded.

"Isn't that rather... unorthodox?"

"When have our families ever followed regular customs?" Nozel rebutted. 

Delphia fell in thought. He wasn't wrong. While the trio never went against too many traditions and rules of their status, they never truly cared for it, especially when one considers the close relationship Acier and Vale had despite not being married or having any blood relations. It wasn't very appropriate for a man and woman of their ranks to be such close friends and actively visiting each other's houses without an escort.

In the end, Delphia shrugged, agreeing to the point as she hooked her arms with theirs as they led her to the Silva's ballroom.

The trio spent the night socializing with the invited quests, ignoring their jealous suitors' snide remarks at their grouping. Delphia took turns dancing with the two, unaware of the glares the two sent to the other men who had attempted to steal a dance from her. It wasn't until the final minutes of the year that Delphia found herself escaping out onto one fo the side balconies for a break.

Allowing her posture to relax, she leant against the railing, sipping at the flute of champagne she had managed to snag before her escape. She nearly jumped as a weight was placed on her shoulders, having sensed no one approaching her.

"You shouldn't be out now. You could catch a cold," Fuegoleon scolded her.

Delphia hummed, taking in the warmth of his cloak, the cloth nearly dwarfing her in its size.

"I needed a break," She admitted, "I'm surprised you were able to escape your admirers." She smirked seeing the way the usually composed man shifted rather awkwardly at the reminder of his rather persistent... fans.

"Nozel has it handled."

Delphia's eyes widened as she turned her head away to bite back a laugh, though her shaking shoulder gave her away. She didn't expect the brave and passionate leader of the Crimson Lions to throw Nozel under the carriage like that.

"How unexpected," She mused, "You know they'll find you eventually. It's almost time for the countdown."

Fuegoleon frowned, "What are you saying?"

"Don't you know?" Delphia smirked, "They say that a couple who kisses as the year turns will be given a bond stronger than even those of soulmates. It's nonsense but romantic enough to make your more fanatic admirers to try and pursue it."

Fuegoleon paled as he glanced back to the balcony doors as if a rabid wolf was about to come through and terrorize them... which wasn't that off from the truth.

The two of them jumped as the doors crashed open, their grimoires snapping open before them as they stood ready for any attack. They paused as they took in the disarrayed state of the Silva. His usually immaculately styled hair was mused and had a few strands falling from his braid. His cloak was half hanging from his shoulders and he even had a few buttons undone.

Delphia couldn't help but snort, her shoulders shaking as she turned to the side, covering her mouth with her hand, avoiding the flare Nozel was pointing at her. Fuegoleon chuckled openly, smirking at his rival in amusement.

"You appear to have had a most enjoyable time, Nozel." Fuegoleon teased.

Nozel glared darkly as he quickly straightened his clothes, practically hissing at the two.

"Shut up!" He scowled, "Where have you two been?!"

The pair blinked, confused at the silver-haired mage's anger. It couldn't possibly be because they left him at the mercy of his admirers. After all, they've done it before, and he was nowhere near angry then as he was now.

"I needed a break and came here. Fuegoleon followed soon after to escape your fangirls," Delphia explained, "Is something wrong?"

Nozel narrowed his eyes, "It's nearly New Years! Have you two forgotten our deal?!"

Fuegoleon and Delphia shared a look though they both held confusion.

Nozel's shoulders slumped minutely as he glanced between the two. Gritting his teeth he spun on his heel, moving to stride back into the ballroom.

New Years?

Delphia's eyes widened as she reached out to grab Nozel's hand. Seeing him glare at her from over his shoulder, she tilted her head with a small smile, her eyes softening.

"To think you'd remember such a small promise," She whispered.

Fuegoleon stared at the two before his own eyes widened in remembrance.

A trio of children -more like two young teens and a girl- stood staring up at the stars as they leant against the balcony railing. They patiently waited for the fireworks to begin, carefully listening for the countdown to start inside.

"Can we do this every year?"

Fuegoleon and Nozel turned to stare down at the small girl, glancing at each other as they reached out to take one of her hands in their own. They squeezed it gently as the violet-haired child stared at their hands in wonder.

"Of course, Lupa."

"Anything for you."

Fuegoleon chuckled as he reached out, grabbing Delphia's free hand and pulling her towards the balcony, causing her to pull Nozel along as well.

They trio linked their hands, staring up at the sky in comfortable silence.

Recalling Delphia's earlier story, the Lion turned glanced over at Nozel, who had already been staring at him. Words were not needed as they both knew what the other intended as they glanced at the shorter woman between them. Vaguely acknowledging the beginning of the countdown within the ballroom, Fuegoleon reached out with his free hand to tilt Delphia's chin towards him.

10, 9,

Delphia stared at him in confusion only for her eyes to widened.

8, 7,

Fuegoleon's eyes were closed as he took in the softness against his lips, enjoying the warmth that filled him despite the cold.

6, 5,

Having watched long enough, Nozel pulled her away, curling a hand behind her neck as he swooped down, copying Fuegoleon's actions.

4, 3,

Having long since taken in the situation, Delphia fell into their actions seamlessly. It felt just as natural as breathing. Nozel smirked as he pulled away. Delphia ignored the warmth in her cheeks, her expression as composed as ever, but eyes ever meaningful.

"Stay with me?" She whispered.

2, 1!

"Of course, Lupa."

"Anything for you."

Happy New Year!

- - - - - - - - - -

Late Christmas Gift and a Happy New Year! It's 2021 y'all! I'll be posting more updates this week so watch for them! 

I honestly really suck at romantic scenes. Like it's so awks for me for some reason. Give me angst any day XD 

Question: Any resolutions for this New Year? I plan to actually get more active and to stop procrastinating or at least try lol. 

UPDATED: 01/01/21