Leon's destiny seemed predetermined from the moment he was born, the son of a middle-class merchant destined to inherit the family trade. His childhood was marked by journeys across the realm, where his parents introduced him to the vast world of commerce. Despite this, Leon's imagination was captivated by tales of heroes and knights, sparking a yearning within him to be more than just a merchant.
With every story book Leon read, his desire to help others and make a real difference deepened. His first taste of victory in a local competition sparked a belief that he, too, might rise to become a knight—a protector of the people. However, as he grew older and observed his peers, especially those gifted with magical abilities, ascend to knighthood and pledge their service to the crown, Leon came to recognize the limitations of his own talents. He lacked the magical prowess or noble lineage typically revered in knights.
Yet, undeterred by the realization that he might never be celebrated as a traditional hero, Leon discovered his true calling during a perilous journey along a trade route. When a band of monsters ambushed the caravan he was protecting, Leon's quick thinking and bravery saved many lives. This defining moment transformed him from a passive observer into a committed adventurer, dedicated to protecting those unable to defend themselves.
Leon established himself as an unsung hero, an adventurer whose deeds resonated more with the common folk of the frontier than in the annals of the kingdom’s celebrated histories. As the crown’s knights found themselves entangled in court politics, Leon fought valiantly in remote areas where official protection was scarce. Although crucial, his efforts often went unrecognized by the wider realm. To those he helped, Leon was a fleeting figure—a mercenary savior from the perils that plagued their lives—his presence memorable yet transient in their stories.
Leon became an independent force, an entity who operated outside the strings of political maneuvering. His commitment to directly aiding those in need allowed him to impact lives in ways that formal protectors of the realm, constrained by their duties to the crown and its politics, often could not.
Despite his earnest contributions, Leon remained humble, acutely aware of his role in the grand tapestry of the kingdom. He sought not glory or recognition but found quiet satisfaction in knowing he had made the world a marginally safer place. His belief that every small act of kindness or bravery contributed to the greater good kept him grounded and focused, even though he was aware that his name might never resonate in the halls of fame alongside those of legendary heroes. This humility not only shaped his approach to his duties but also profoundly influenced his personal relationships, helping him to preserve the camaraderie that had become his most cherished connection.
This sense of humility extended to his personal life, particularly in how he viewed the complexities of love. He had witnessed firsthand how romantic entanglements could strain or even sever the tightest bonds within his circle, including those with his closest companions like Robin, Aston, and Rosa. Fearing that his own pursuit of love might jeopardize these precious relationships, Leon chose to guard his heart carefully. He prioritized preserving the camaraderie that had become his most treasured asset, ensuring that his romantic endeavors never overshadowed the deep bonds he valued above all. In this way, Leon lived as both a hero and a common man, his legacy defined more by the lives he touched than by the tales told about him.
Yet, his perspective began to shift dramatically when Aston and Rosa, two of his dearest friends and fellow adventurers, decided to marry. Witnessing their union, Leon felt an unexpected twinge of envy—not for their romantic affection per se, but for the partnership they had cemented; a reliable, enduring presence by their side through life's tumultuous journey. This realization awakened a longing within him for a similar companionship, a partner to rely on unconditionally.
"Seems like you're lost in thoughts of love, Leon," Robin teased, nudging him playfully. "Who knew our brave fighter longed for a fairytale ending?"
Leon, a bit embarrassed, responded, "It's hard not to yearn for something more when faced with such happiness. I just wish I knew where to start."
Seizing the moment, Robin proposed an unconventional idea. "Why not turn this longing into an adventure? Let's explore the dungeons, but this time, in search of love rather than glory!"
Leon, perplexed, replied, "The dungeons? That's hardly a place for romance, Robin."
With a laugh, Robin said, "Where better to find someone who truly appreciates your bravery and strength? Trust me, it'll be an adventure like no other. And who knows, amidst the danger and shadows, love might just find its way."
When Robin playfully suggested that he embark on a series of 'practice dates' to sharpen his romantic acumen, Leon initially went along with the idea more to humor her than from any genuine interest in finding love. However, as these staged dates with Robin accumulated, what started as a light-hearted endeavor slowly kindled a deeper desire. He found himself cherishing not just the idea of love, but the person who had been by his side through countless dangers and joys.
With each pretend date they undertook, the line between acting and reality grew increasingly indistinct, compelling Leon to confront a profound truth within himself: he didn't just want a partner for the sake of companionship; he wanted Robin—truly and deeply. Not merely as a 'practice partner,' a role she had playfully created, but as a genuine life partner. Over the years, what had started as playful camaraderie had evolved into something much deeper, something that tugged at the core of his being. Leon found himself desiring a future permanently intertwined with Robin's, a future where she stood by his side not just as a friend but as the central figure in his life.
This epiphany marked a significant turning point for Leon. He transitioned from merely playing along with Robin's lighthearted dating scenarios to genuinely yearning for a life filled with shared experiences and deep, enduring love. He began to envision a future rich with the moments they had collected over more than a decade—moments of laughter, danger, and quiet support that had woven the fabric of their unique bond. The recognition of his feelings for Robin ignited a new determination within him to pursue a partnership that extended beyond the adventures and into the realm of heartfelt affection and mutual commitment.
As Leon stood alone atop the wall, his vigilant gaze sweeping the landscape for any sign of danger, his mind was elsewhere, tangled in thoughts far removed from his duties. The cool night air brushed against his skin, but the chill was barely noticeable against the warmth kindling inside him. He was preoccupied, rehearsing over and over again the words he wanted to say to Robin. Each phrase he formulated was aimed at expressing the depth of his feelings, at bridging the gap between their longstanding friendship and the potential of something more profound.
"Robin, I've been thinking..." he started, his voice a whisper lost in the wind. He paused, correcting himself with a slight shake of his head. "No, that’s too formal." He cleared his throat and tried again, his tone softer, more reflective. "You know, we've been through a lot together, haven’t we?" He nodded to himself, liking the more casual approach. "And I've started to feel like maybe there's more to this. More to us."
He winced at his words, realizing how they might sound coming out of nowhere. "Too direct, Leon, ease into it," he muttered under his breath, practicing a small smile. He leaned against the cool stone of the wall, imagining Robin's face, her curious gaze encouraging him to continue. "I mean, after all these adventures, it's you I always look forward to seeing. It's you I miss," he confessed to the night, his voice gaining confidence.
