The General's Rose

by the Legendary Armor

A/N: For my friend, and any Oswin/Serra fan who's ready to read some much-needed material on this largely ignored pairing. Thanks for reading, and reviews are welcome!

"So who will it be, eh?"

Matthew smiled slyly, crossing his arms as he spoke again. "Well? I saw you off in the market buying something—the area where they sell things for—"

The middle-aged general glared, and cut the spy off with, "It's none of your business if I've bought someone a gift for the onset of Spring. Leave me be."

Smirking, the blond man sauntered off at a lazy pace. "Whatever you say, old man."

The Marquess of Ostia grimaced and plugged his ears as a gleeful shriek ripped through the halls. Hardly a moment later, Serra flounced up to him, smiling widely and holding a single red rose. "Ooh, Lord Hector! I just saw the messenger leave! You got a Spring gift, didn't you?! Oooh, I knew it! Who's it from?"

"None of your business." He glanced at the rose, curious. "Who was crazy enough to give you that?"

She frowned—cheerfully, somehow. "Don't be so rude, Lord Hector! And nobody has given me anything yet, though I'm sure to be showered with gifts soon. This rose is for my love!"

As she turned to skip away, Hector muttered, "Sure feel sorry for whoever that is."

Oswin's peace was interrupted the second time that day when a loud knock sounded at his door, followed by the ever-cheerful voice of Serra.

"It's me, Oswin! Open up!"

Almost reluctantly, he complied and opened the door. The pink-haired cleric stood there smiling, holding a single red rose out to him. "Happy Spring, Oswin!" Her face glowed with joy, and he flushed. "So what did you get me? I know you got me something, right? I've been praying to St. Elimine every night for it!"

"Now what have I told you about praying for selfish reasons?" he asked, turning away and walking into the room. It was a plain place, with simple furnishings and the occasional oddity, just like any loyal Ostian soldier.

Serra bounced in behind him, sticking the thornless rose behind his ear, when he said sternly, "Close your eyes, Lady Serra." She giggled and complied with his wishes, and a moment later, he announced, "All right… open them."

As she opened her eyes, she focused on the general, and it was actually far more than she expected.

He held a bouquet of roses in his hand, some red, some the same pink as her hair.

"…Happy Spring, Lady Serra."

She squealed and jumped at him, wrapping her small arms around his bulky armor, and pecked him on the lips with a light kiss. "Ooh, thank you, Oswin! Thank you!"

"You're welcome… how about a drink? To new beginnings…"

(end!)