Chapter Text
Growing up, Xander had always been the hero in the family, raising and looking after all of his precious siblings; but Valentine never truly knew him as a hero until now, watching Xander swoop in as he cut down anything in his path, and given his reputation amongst the Nohrians, it was natural for some to be scared, especially with Ryoma not far behind. Encouraged by his two older brothers, Valentine was able to put more effort into his magic, making sure to back up Charlotte and Subaki, leaving Takumi to watch out for Silas and Keaton. Having Niles and Odin definitely helped, as well as Peri's skills at combat and Laslow's inspiring rally; keeping everyone's spirits high with his charisma.
Being saved by Xander, especially after being apart for so long; Valentine couldn't stop the racing in his heart as the beating echoed in his ears. He knew Xander could handle himself but he couldn't resist standing beside his big brother once more, watching him on the battlefield like an army of his own...Even Leo admitted to this once, as well as his sisters.
"No, this...This can't be possible!" Iago was more afraid than he was furious, almost trembling as he stood before Valentine and his arm. Though they had vowed not to kill, Iago and Hans were people they could not allow to live, and so just like Hans before him, Iago's life was no more and Valentine's army could finally rest at least once they explained everything to their new allies.
Resting in their usual fort thanks to Lilith. Finally able to relax for a while, Valentine used this opportunity to finally catch up with Xander but before he could actually go looking for him, he wondered if maybe he should leave Xander to himself and allow him to rest...although, his big brother was never the best at resting as he was always finding ways to keep himself busy and usually that always lead to him training. Finally, he found the crowned prince, and Valentine was relieved to see that Xander had only a mere few scratches on him after the battle.
Ryoma had just left the room, assuming the two were discussing some things about forming peace between the two armies but little did Valentine know that Xander was actually beginning to critique Ryoma's leadership skills and even give him some advice.
"Xander" Valentine smiled as he finally joined his brother's side.
"Valentine, did you need something?" Xander asked but seeing the smile on his little brother's face let him know everything was fine.
"Thank you for asking, but I merely just wished to finally chat with you after being apart for so long"
"I see. I couldn't agree with you more, Valentine. I have missed you and the others despite the short time apart." And so, the two talked for hours before bedtime. Valentine had felt so relaxed and at peace after finally being able to be around Xander again, he felt like he could finally sleep for the first time in so long. Remembering the warm and gentle touch of Xander's hand, as he pat his head just before parting ways with him for bed; his cheeks flushed a rosy color as he focused on the memory and touch to fall asleep to, almost like a lullaby.
It had already been a few days since Xander had joined the army and Valentine had begun secretly training with him every night, wanting to spend almost every second beside him...however, new feelings began to brew inside of him and after just one encounter with Xander in the hot springs, it was Valentine's vow to never have that happen again, as he realized...he could no longer see Xander as just an older brother anymore. His feelings for Xander were becoming far too romantic, and this was a problem.
Both he and Xander were siblings and just that, and Xander would need a bride capable of birthing his royal child, the future heir to his throne. He frowned at the thought and even the possible rejection he would receive should Xander find out about his feelings...
"What am I even thinking? I couldn't possibly love Xander romantically...I-I must just be tired or maybe exaggerating my usual feelings for him....Right?" Although he had close friends he usually spoke to, he wasn't sure if these possibly new feelings were something he wanted anyone to know, not even his closest friend Subaki. The idea of any of his siblings finding out was worrisome and it was hard to imagine each and every one of their reactions.
During combat, he tried to avoid Xander, attempting to dismiss any further feelings for him but it seemed like no matter how hard he tried, Xander was always seemed to somehow always end up supporting him, saving him just when he thought his life might be over. Xander was truly his hero and he couldn't say it enough. He remembered all the times Xander had come to visit him when he was locked away in his fortress, all the stories he would tell him, all the nights he spent just to get him to sleep, all the days they spent training...He was always so kind to him, he was always there for him, more than Leo, Camilla, and Elise had ever been. "I guess...I really do love him"