Chapter Text
In the great court of Pherae Castle, the afternoon sun stretched long shadows across the cobblestone pathways and radiant greenery. The tranquility was broken only by the songs of far-off birds and the rustling of leaves. At the center of this serene scene stood Lyn and Shanna, ready for a hearty spar.
Lyn wore her usual green and white; she held her practice sword confidently. Her stance was sure, with flashing eyes that showed her excitement about this competition. Facing her off was Shanna, in a more rugged version of her Pegasus Knight uniform, expertly handling her lance. Her eyes met Lyn's just as eagerly.
Breaking the silence with a playful grin, Lyn said, "Ready for another round, Shanna? I'm starting to think that you might prove to be a greater challenge than Roy ever was."
Shanna laughed, twirling her lance with a flourish. "You're on, Lyn. Just don't complain when I outmaneuver you. I do so enjoy a good sparring match."
Lyn's grin grew even wider. "We shall see about that. I do not back from a challenge, especially not with a fellow warrior who shares my love of battle.".
And so their fight began, the slapping of their weapons at one another evidence of great skill and friendship—Lyn's striking, quick and sure; grace and dexterity in every movement, honed from her training. Shanna parried with grace and strength, keeping Lyn out of her way by every reckoned lance thrust. Their weapons clashed in rhythm through the courtyard, symphony to their fierce engagement.
From the sidelines, Roy and Eliwood watched, leaning casually against a stone wall. Roy's expression was a mix of amusement and mild concern as he watched his wife's energetic battle.
"I think I'm in trouble," Roy said with a wry smile. "Shanna and mother, both so stubborn. I can barely keep up with their enthusiasm.
Eliwood chuckled and replied with a knowing smile. "Both are formidable in their own ways. Refreshing to see them bond over their shared love of battle. Brings back memories of Lyn and I training together before we were wed."
Roy nodded, his attention back on the dueling pair. "Good thing they get along so well. Shanna's not much of a delicate flower, is she?"
Eliwood laughed. "No, she definitely isn't. But it's good that they relate and can be strong together, too. Part of what makes this family thing work"
Lyn and Shanna kept at it, their moving forms a liquid dance of grace and respect. Lyn's attacks met with an equal number of counters from Shanna's experience in her combat, showing the picture of two warriors at work.
Heavily breathing but smiling, Lyn called out, "You're as good as they say, Shanna. I have always enjoyed a challenge, and you're certainly providing one.".
Shanna laughed, her voice ringing with approval. "You're not too shabby yourself, Lyn. I've always admired your fighting spirit. It's a pleasure to spar with someone who really understands the rush of combat."
As the sun slid lower, some of the ferocity of their combat was drained from them. Their breaths came in ragged gasps, but their faces were flushed with satisfaction.
"Don't forget, you two!" Roy called after them, modulating his exasperation with a playfulness. "I need both my wife and my mother to survive this match. Try not to break anything, alright?"
Eliwood raised an eyebrow, lightly. "And remember, you both need to stay in one piece. I'm not ready for any more surprises today."
Lyn shouted back, her voice carrying over the clamor of their duel. "Don't worry, Roy. We're just having fun. Besides, what's life without a little risk?"
Shanna grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Exactly. And we'll save our best moves for the next time we face a real opponent."
Finally, as the sun's golden rays glistened over the courtyard, Lyn and Shanna slowed their pace, their duel giving way to friendly smiles and laughter.
Lyn offered a hand up to Shanna, beaming. "That was good. You've got really neat skills, and I'd love to see more of this sort of match."
Shanna took Lyn's hand warmly, her smile one of regard. "Same here. It's always a breath of fresh air to meet someone like you, with so much fire in your blood.
Roy and Eliwood, who emerged next, calling Eliwood to place a hand on Lyn's shoulder as he offered a warm smile to Shanna.
"Well done, both of you," Eliwood said, his tone full of approval. "It's good to see the family bonding so well."
Roy smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "And if either of you would care to spar with me next, possibly I shall get some practice in. However, first, I think I will just enjoy the show."
Lyn laughed, her eyes dancing mischievously. "Oh, don't you worry about that, Roy. We'll make sure you get a turn. But for now, let's take a break and enjoy the evening.