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Chapter Text

"This is it, our final battle!" the man said to the hooded figure, drawing his blade as the dark sorcerer began to grin wildly, "You're one of us,_____, and there's no 'destiny' that can ever change that. Now, let's kill this dastard and be done with it!" He charged with a stab but the sorcerer was faster and he dodged his blade with ease. The hooded figure shot a bolt of lightning towards the sorcerer, but that too was dodged.
"Struggle all you like!" he gloated, "You cannot change what has already been written!" he then shot a blast of dark magic towards the swordsman, who blocked it with ease, his cobalt eyes filled with determination. He charged, slashing at his chest once, twice! both times deflected by the sorcerer's dark magic. As the hooded figure charged a blast of lightning in the palm of her hand, the sorcerer seemingly vanished. "Up there!" The swordsman called out, pointing to the ceiling, the sorcerer launching a blast of dark magic towards the floor, as the two dodged the blast just before it hit the floor, the hooded figure releasing her counterattack. But the dark sorcerer had disappeared once again! She looked down to see the swordsman be blasted back by a surge of black magic into a pillar, causing him to stumble. "Chrom!" The hooded figure ran toward the warrior as he was utilizing his sword as a makeshift cane when the sorcerer then began charging a finishing attack! Just as it was launched, the hooded figure countered with a spell of their own, causing an explosion that barely missed the downed warrior. The hooded figure stood between the two, looking behind her as Chrom got to his feet, "Are you ok?"
"Nothing a vulnerary can't fix," Chrom said, smiling.
The hooded figure smirked, "And yet, if it were me, you'd be worried to no end."
Chrom chuckled, "Would you have it any other way?"
"Not on your life."

The two then charged the sorcerer together, alternating attacks that the sorcerer blocked again and again, but the onslaught began to take its toll on him, causing him to get sloppy. The hooded figure aimed a blast of lightning at his leg, causing him to stumble back. The swordsman let out a fiery roar as he slashed his blade lengthwise upon the sorcerer, causing him to stumble back and collapse as his husk of a body began to disintegrate into purple flames. Chrom looked to the hooded figure, a smile on his face, a smile that quickly faded as he heard the sorcerer speak once more: "This isn't over, damn you both!" The hooded figure saw as the sorcerer was standing tall, body still being eaten away by the flames as he let out a blast of dark magic as one last hurrah. "Chrom, look out!" The hooded figure quickly said, pushing him out of the way as she took the brunt of the blast head on, her vision going white. When it returned, she saw him running towards her. He knelt down and used his hands to prop her up, "_____! Are you ok!?"
She began laughing weakly, "S-see? here you are to make sure your fragile tactician is still in pristine condition."
Chrom scoffed, "In any case, that's the last of him." She looked over at the violet flames where the sorcerer had once been, not seeming to spread. "We can rest easy now, at long last." Suddenly, there was a dull throbbing in the head of the robbed figure, moving her hand to her forehead. The throbbing began to intensify, her vision beginning to turn red. Then, for what felt like a split second, her vision went black. Coming to, she saw a spike of lightning perturbing from the chest of Chrom, eyes widened from the pain he was feeling.
"No. No no!" Tears began forming in her eyes "What have I done? Gods what have I done!?"
Chrom stumbled back as he coughed up a crimson liquid. "Th-this isn't your...your fault."
The hooded figure looked down at her hand as it still pulsed with energy, "Chrom, oh gods! I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to! Please! Please, you can't die!!"
"Pr-promise me that...you'll escape from this place...please, go..." As the words barely escaped his lips, he fell to the floor, his life draining as he stumbled and fell to the ground. An evil laughter began to fill the now quiet room, echoing in her mind. Was it the sorcerer? no, it couldn't have been. The laugh felt more...unnerving, even for him. What produced this laugh was far more sinister...

Chapter Text

"Ugh, how much farther Chrom!?" the young lady groaned, "My legs feel like pudding from all this walking!"
The blue-haired man laughed, his blue jacket seeming to move as he did, "You spent half of our trek on the back of Frederick's horse, Lissa and besides, the exercise is good for you."
Lissa stuck her tongue at him, blonde hair in pigtails and yellow dress reflecting her maturity, "Ya know, not all of us are born with your athletic prowess, big bro!"
"No one is born with athletic prowess, milady," Frederick, the brown haired knight in blue armor, retorted, "He just rigorously trains himself to be the most capable warrior he can."
Lissa glared daggers at Frederick, "Ya know, the more you talk about Chrom like that, the more I start to think you'd like to be more than just his appointed knight."
Frederick frowned, raising an eyebrow, "I do not understand."
Lissa rolled her eyes, "It amazes me how dense you two can be..." She turned her attention towards the prairie, littered with dozens upon dozens of yellow flowers, "Ya know, it'd be nice to stop and take a break here."
Chrom nodded, "Well, we're almost to Southtown but, I see what you mean Lissa. Well, I suppose a brief respite should be fine, the town should still be there in five minutes."
Lissa cheered with joy, running towards a tree through the field, "Hey, wait up!" Chrom shouted, running to catch up with her as Frederick steered his horse in their direction, questioning his choice in career. As they ran, the two giggled like two children after getting out of a boring class. It was refreshing for the both of them, or it was until Lissa's leg caught on something causing to stumble and fall. Lissa then turned to see what she had tripped over. Was it a root? No, the tree was a bit further ahead, it couldn't have been that. She began scanning the object, looking to see what it was, seeing it was connected to a...was-was that a hand!?

Lissa's scream caught Chrom off-guard, his protective instincts kicking in as he ran to Lissa, closing the distance to protect her, "Lissa, are you alright!?"
"T-there's a hand!" Lissa said, pointing to the ground. Chrom looked in the direction of Lissa's finger, seeing what she had seen. He then looked in the opposite direction of the arm to see that, bless the gods, was still attached to its owner. It was a girl, dressed in a strange unbuttoned black robe with a wine-red interior and gold patterns on its exterior, a white shirt with small black horizontal lines, and pants and shoes matching her robe. Her white hair, tied in twin tails, seemed to glisten in the sunlight. She was quite beautiful, looking almost as if she could be some sort of noble from some far-off land, "Ch-Chrom, is she..?"
"I don't know," Chrom said, looking towards her chest, seeing it subtlety rising and falling, "I don't think she is, she's still breathing as far as I can tell." Lissa then grabbed a stick and began slowly poking her, slowly repeating "pooooke" each time she did it. As she was about to do it for a fourth time, Chrom gently slapped her hand, "Lissa, stop that!"
"Geez, sorry!" Lissa grumbled, "Just had to make sure for myself..."

A black void was all she could see. There was nothing save the horrible dream she experienced. She slowly drifted through the endlessness as she suddenly heard voices. "We have to do something!"
"What do you propose we do?"
"I...I dunno...!" Suddenly the void was covered in a wave of light, as if these voices had recovered her from the darkness. As the white cleared, she looked up to see two people staring down at her. A young blue-haired man and a younger blonde girl. They were talking amongst themselves as their attention was brought to her.
Oh! I see you're awake now." The man said, the girl seeming to retreat behind him, meekly saying "H-hey there."
"There are better places to nap than on the ground, you know." the man said, reaching toward her, "give me your hand." She gladly took it. Something about it, about him. It was warm and full of benevolence. The man helped her to her feet, "There, are you alright?"
"Y-yeah," she replied in a shaky voice, "Thank you, Chrom."
"Ah, you know who I am?"
Did she? were they companions on the road? She didn't recall anything. Well, other than his name, "N-no, I don't think so. It's just you...you look like a Chrom, if that makes sense."
Chrom seemed curious of her answer, "Well, what's your name? And why were you lying here in this field?"
"My name?" she asked. Of course I know that, it's...it's...wait, what is my name? "It's...um, uh well, you see...I-I don't know..."
"You...don't know your own name?" Chrom asked, puzzled.
She began looking around, "Sorry, weird question, but uh, wh-where exactly am I?"
"Hey, I've heard of this!" the girl blurted, almost jumping from behind the man, "It's called amnesia!"
"It's called a load of pegasus dung!" A voice called out, causing their attentions to turn toward it, seeing an intimidating man in armor, "We're expected to believe you know milord's name, but not your own?"
The girl began taking two steps back, "B-but it's the truth, sir!"
"And what if it IS true, Frederick?" Chrom asked, "Should we just abandon her then? Alone and confused? What kind of Shepherds would we be then!?"
Shepherds?
"Just the same, milord," Frederick replied, "T'would not do to let a wolf into our flock."
"Whoa whoa, wait, don't I get a say in this!?"
"Peace friend," Chrom reassured her, "I promise we'll hear all you have to say when we arrive in town, hopefully someone you know should be there."

A million thoughts began running around in her head. What's going to happen to me? Am I gonna die? More importantly, who the heck am I!? The glares from the knight atop his horse didn't exactly inspire anything positive. As the thoughts continued racing, she suddenly blurted one out: "What will you do with me? Am I to be your prisoner?"
Chrom chuckled, "You'll be free to go once we've established you're no enemy of Yilsse."
"I-is that where we are?" she asked.
"You've never heard of the halidom?" Frederick scoffed, "Someone pay this actress! She plays quite the fool! That furrowed brow is especially convincing."
"Frederick, please." Chrom said, turning his attention back to the stranger, "This land is known as the Halidom of Ylisse and our ruler, Emmeryn, is called the exalt. I do suppose proper introductions are in order...My name is Chrom—but then, you already knew that." He then patted the girl on her back, "This delicate one here is my little sister, Lissa." 
"I am NOT delicate!" Lissa huffed, "Please ignore my brother, he can be quite the bonehead."
"Hey!"
Lissa giggled, "In any case, you're very lucky the Shepherds found you before some brigands did and gave you a rude awakening."
There was that word again, but they hardly looked the part. In fact, they looked ready for some kind of tussle, "You tend sheep...in full armor?"
"It's a dangerous job," Chrom chuckled, "just ask Frederick the Wary over there."
"A title I shall wear with pride!" Frederick said, "Gods forbid at least one of us holds a necessary level caution. I wish to be able to trust you as my master does, stranger, but my position mandates otherwise."
She felt a wave of relief hit her, "I guess I can't blame you on that front, I mean I'd be skeptical too if I also found someone claiming to have no memories on the side of the road."
"Well, I guess I'll have to come up with a name for you," Lissa said, looking her up and down. "Hmmm, how about Lyn? No, you don't look like a Lyn...well, maybe Celica? Nah, too girly. Ooh, I know! how about Titania!? That's a badass name don't you think!?"
"Robin."
"Huh?"
"Robin," the stranger repeated, "I-I think that's my name, so mystery solved, I guess?"
Lissa began pouting, muttering to herself, "Titania sounds way cooler..."
"Robin? Is that foreign?" Chrom asked, "Well in any case we can discuss it once we get to-"
"Chrom, the town!"
Chrom looked up to see fire licking the surfaces of a few of the buildings' roofs, "Damn! The town's been set ablaze! The townspeople must be in trouble, Frederick, Lissa, come on!"
Frederick pointed to Robin, "What about her, sire?"
"Unless she's on fire as well, she should be fine!"
"Aptly put, milord!" The three began running into the town.
"W-wait! What about-?" Robin called out, but they had already gone. What am I doing? How can I trust their words? What if this is a trap for me? I can use this moment to flee, and hopefully find someone who knows something about me! As she turned to run, she stopped. Then again, what if it isn't a trap? What if those people really do need help? Those three may have been suspicious of me, but they were willing to take me in. If not for them I could be dead or worse...but do I even know-? The thought was cut short when Robin drew a bronze sword from its sheath on her left hip and a yellow book from inside her jacket. That'll do. Robin then turned around once more and ran into the village.

The chaos of buildings burning and townspeople running about caused by the brigands appalled the group as they entered and drew their weapons, "Frederick, you and I will take down as many as we can, hopefully this'll cause them to retreat. Lissa, find anyone who is injured and heal them, there may be few casualties since from the look of things, this only started a short while ago."
"Wait!" Chrom turned in the direction of the voice to see Robin running towards them.
"Robin? You followed us? Why?"
"I-I'm not sure myself," Robin answered, "But I'm armed and can handle myself in a fight, if you'll have me."
Chrom shrugged, "Sure, strength in numbers, just stay close. Now, let's make sure these bandits won't be terrorizing anyone else after today!" Frederick engaged first, sweeping a bandit off his feet with his lance while Chrom slashed another diagonally across the chest, causing him to fall to the ground. Another charged at him from behind, but Robin made short work of him with her blade before he could land a hit. She then drew upon the book she was carrying, surprising Chrom, "You can use magic?"
"Apparently, if that's what this book is for."
"'Apparently?'" Chrom replied with apprehension, "Th-then maybe I should keep my distance for now."
"It's fine, I can control it, just gotta remember how-" As this was happening another bandit charged her when she let out a bolt of lightning, blasting him back, "Ok, figured it out!"

Lissa led the last few villagers she found to the entrance when suddenly a bandit trapped them in an alley. He slashed at Lissa, who barely dodged his attack. While Lissa herself was fine, the same could not be said for her left sleeve. Lissa was shocked to see what had been done to her dress, and that shock quickly turned to anger as she started clubbing the thug with her staff, angrily shouting things like: "How dare you ruin my favorite dress!" and "Whose delicate now!?" as the bandit ran off crying like an infant and fled the village, impressing Frederick who was watching from afar as he skewered yet another bandit. He made sure to make a mental note not to tear any of Lissa's clothing. Lissa then marched over to Chrom, "Do you see what that monster did to my dress!?"
"Well, at least it's not your head," Chrom said.
Lissa grumbled, "It may as well have been." As the four regrouped and headed toward the church, seeing the lead bandit terrorizing a young woman with a mad grin on his face. He then felt a tap on his shoulder, turning around only for Chrom to punch him in the face. He fell to the ground, then he looked up to see the four towering above him. Chrom then pointed his sword at him, "Your friends have either been slain here or have fled for their lives. You can either leave now and never return, or I'll end you myself."
"Th-this isn't over, pretty boy," the bandit grumbled, stumbling to his feet and running to the exit. Chrom then sheathed his sword, "Well, that's the end of that."
Lucky for the town, we weren't too far away," Lissa said, "But holy wow Robin, you're something else, swords AND magic!? Is there anything you can't do?"
Frederick's eyes narrowed, "You're no helpless victim, perhaps you can even explain what you were doing in the first place."
"I understand your skepticism, Sir Frederick, but believe me when I say I've shared as much as I know currently," Robin answered.
"Besides, she's saved many lives today," Chrom said, "My heart says that's enough."
"And what of your mind?" Frederick said, "Will you not pay it counsel?"
"Robin's talents are just what the Shepherds need right now, we've got brigands and unruly neighbors to worry about, would you so readily lose us such an ally?"
Frederick sighed, "As you wish milord, but I will be keeping a close eye on her."
"Thanks, Frederick," Chrom replied, turning to Robin, "Well, how about it? Will you join us, Robin?"
"I'd be honored to," Robin said, "Thank you, Chrom."

"Not a single person here seems to recognize you, Robin," Lissa said, sighing.
Robin shrugged, "It's not like I no longer have a place to go to now, so not a total loss."
"Well, I'm sure we'll eventually find someone who does know you," Chrom said.
"Milord, I forgot to mention this earlier, but that brigand spoke with a Plegian accent, do you think it could be another attempt?"
Robin frowned, "Plegian? What's that?"
"Plegia is Ylisse's western neighbor," Chrom explained, "And lately they've been sending small groups into our kingdom in an attempt to instigate a war."
"That's terrible!"
"And the worst part is that it's the townspeople who suffer!" Lissa said angrily, "Totally innocent and helpless, just wait til I get my hands on that mad king!"
"Calm yourself, milady," Frederick said, "Anger will only cloud your judgement."
"I know, I know," Lissa sighed, "Don't worry, I'll get used to all of this."
A villager then ran up to the group, seemingly out of breath, "Milord, please stay for the night! We don't have much, but we will treat you with the utmost that we can!"
Lissa perked up, "Dark meat only for me, medium well, and no salt in the soup. I simply—"
A generous offer, sir," Frederick interrupted "But I fear we must be on our way to report in to the exalt."
"What!?" Lissa said, "W-we aren't staying!?"
"Come now, Lissa. When night falls we'll make our beds of twigs and eat off the land, besides you did say you were 'getting used to this'."
"Frederick, sometimes I hate you..."
"Quite the stern lieutenant you've got there," Robin remarked
"That's one way to put it," Lissa grumbled, "I can think of more unpleasant ways to describe it."
"Frederick only smiles when he's bringing down the axe," Chrom explained.
Robin nodded her head, "Duly noted."
Frederick cleared his throat, "You ARE aware I'm still here?"
"Oh, we know, Sir Frederick the Wary," Chrom teased, causing Robin to chuckle.
"Milord remains as amusing as ever," Frederick grumbled to himself, "Well, shall we get going?"
"Alright, Alright, ready to go Robin? We aren't too far from the capital now."

Nightfall's approach was swifter than expected. Something about the path's lack of light made it seem somewhat peaceful and just a bit ominous, which was disrupted by Lissa. "Ugh, now it's nighttime," she complained, "And now the icky bugs are out! They buzz around and crawl all around you, and some'll even bite y-" Her sentence was cut short she started coughing, "Ack! Won goph im mah mouph!"
"Aw come now, Lissa," Chrom said, "Hardship builds character, after all. Wanna help me gather firewood?"
"Ugh, I think I swallowed it," Lissa spat, exasperated, "And I think I'll pass on that offer, I've built QUITE enough character today!"
Robin's stomach growled as she quickly moved her hands down in a failed attempt to muffle it, "I-I don't know about you all but, I don't think I've eaten in days."
"Then I guess we're camping out here tonight," Chrom said, turning to Frederick, "Could you hunt for us tonight? I'll clear out a campsite."
Frederick nodded

A nice warm fire and a warm meal. It was no roof over her head, but Robin couldn't help but to dig into the meat. It was tough and gamey, but it had a decent enough flavor to be edible. "Ah, it's been a while since I've had bear meat," Chrom said, turning to see Lissa not even touching her plate, "What's wrong, Lissa? Dig in!"
Lissa pushed the plate away, "Hard pass! Couldn't Frederick have found us something normal to eat for once? Like, who the heck eats bear of all things!? This'd probably mess with the food chain, right Robin?"
Robin looked up from her plate, mouth full.
Lissa was almost impressed she'd eaten her entire meal, "I guess I'd eat anything myself if I was that hungry..."
"Every experience will make you stronger, milady," Frederick said, trying to reassure Lissa.
Lissa then glared back at him, "How come I don't see YOU eating it then!?"
Frederick stuttered, "Y-you see I had a-a large lunch, yes quite!"
"Yeah right, Frederick," Lissa said, rolling her eyes.
Robin then pointed to Lissa's plate, "You gonna eat that?"
Lissa wordlessly handed the plate to Robin, who gratefully ate it up. She may have just met these people, but she already felt as if she had known them for so long.

Chrom awoke after what felt like only a few hours. As for why he was uncertain. He sat up and surveyed the trees. "What's wrong, big bro?"
Chrom whipped his head back to see his sister, now as awake as he was, "Lissa, did I wake you? Sorry, but I feel something is...amiss..."
"Define 'something'."
"I-I don't know, I'm gonna look around."
Lissa stood up, "Not alone you aren't, I'm coming with you." and so the two departed into the forest wandering aimlessly through the night, looking for the source of Chrom's discomfort. While their eyes couldn't pinpoint what exactly was wrong, their ears could. "It's quiet," Chrom observed, "And not the reassuring kind either."
Lissa shivered, "It's like the entire forest is dead." Just then, the ground began to shake, causing the two to lose their footing "C-Chrom, what's happening!?"
"I don't know!" Chrom said, barely managing to stand upright, "Just stay close!"
The trees ahead of them began to uproot and cracks began to form in the ground, "Lissa, run!" Lissa nodded and ran back to the camp, Chrom right behind her. Chrom looked behind and saw the very earth rising to the sky as liquid fire rained down, destroying any tree that got in its way. Chrom caught up to Lissa and yanked her hand to the left just as a fireball landed right where she would have been and exploded, the shockwave knocking the two back and onto the ground. "You ok, Lissa!?"
Lissa groaned, then nodded, her attention drawn to the sky, "Chrom, what is that!?" Chrom looked up to see what looked like a giant, blue eye as something dropped appeared to drop from within it like tears. Chrom eventually got a look at what had appeared from the sky. The two things looked human, but something was...off. They wore dull red armor that covered their skin and their faces covered by silver masks, which seemed to amplify their groans as they approached. Whatever they were, they didn't seem friendly. Chrom drew his blade as he charged one. As he got close, it began to bring down its axe as Chrom parried it and slashed right through its body. Chrom looked back in shock to see the creature had barely taken any damage, its neck making a sickening crack as it turned to meet his gaze. It swung its axe again as Chrom barely blocked the blow. The two struggled for a moment before Chrom disarmed the creature, knocking it to the ground before jumping into the air and landing atop the fiend, his blade piercing what he hoped was its heart. The creature groaned as it disintegrated into a black and purple smoke. Wait, wasn't there another one!? Chrom heard a scream from behind him. He spun around to see, Lissa backed against a tree as the second creature raised its axe. Chrom ran as fast as he could be he knew he wouldn't make it in time. Lissa closed her eyes, that last thing she saw being the creature's axe plunging into her.

Clang! Lissa opened her eyes slowly, she had been expecting to hear the sicking squish of her insides being ripped apart by rusted metal. She saw someone facing her, their sword behind their back blocking the attack. The stranger had short blue hair and wore a mask of the same color in the shape of a butterfly. Along with a blue leather tunic, scarf and pants, along with a cape, the back of which was red. Lissa was shocked by their sudden appearance. Where did they come from? "H-help!" The stranger called to Chrom, who was standing there, just as shocked as Lissa. Chrom nodded and began to charge. The creature turned in his direction, giving the stranger the opportunity to push it back and preformed a slash together with Chrom, causing the creature to disintegrate like the one before. Lissa felt her knees buckle and she fell to the ground shaking. "That was some entrance," Chrom said to the stranger, "Now tell me, what is your name?" The stranger turned to him, a jaded look upon their face. "Chrom! Lissa!" Chrom turned to see Robin and Frederick running to him, "We heard shouting and the whole forest erupted into flames, are you alright!?"
"We're fine," Chrom said, turning back to the stranger to see they were gone, but an army of those things was approaching them.
"Are such creatures commonplace here?"
"Never seen em before," Chrom answered, "I can promise you they're not native to Ylisse."
Frederick let out a sigh of relief, "Thank the gods no one was hurt."
"W-Well if it wasn't for that masked man, I'd be vulture chow right about now!"
Frederick raised an eyebrow, "Masked man?"
"I'll explain everything later, right now we gotta take these things out before they have a chance to invade elsewhere!" Chrom, Frederick and Robin drew their weapons as Lissa ran behind them, ready to heal them should they get injured.

The battle raged on for what felt like an hour, each creature taking a toll on their strength. Striking at the heart was the only way to put these things down for good, and they seemed to know that as well. Chrom blocked the sword of one of the creatures when another charged him from behind. Frederick and Robin were already preoccupied with the creatures they were up against and Lissa didn't exactly have a weapon that could hurt them. Chrom knew he would suffer a massive blow from either the one charging or the one he was currently engaged with. Just as the creature would've crippled him, a horse leapt from between the bushes, its rider stabbing at the monster with the force of a hammer on an anvil. "Captain Chrom!" Chrom looked up to see the rider, a fairly tall woman with dull red hair and looks that could kill, "Dammit all, I knew I shouldn't have left you!"
"Sully, your timing is impeccable," Chrom said, smiling then slicing down the creature before him.
Sully twirled her lance menacingly, "Alright ya ash-faced freaks, which one of ya wants a taste of my lance first!? I know the perfect spot for it, right up your a-!"
"Hold, milady!" A voice called out, seemingly out of breath. A stout and frivolous looking man emerged, long cyan hair whipping about. He walked up to Sully and continued to speak, "Life may be long, but attraction is fleeting! Would you leave me in your sweet dust? Leave war to the warriors, dear bird! A beauty such as you need only wage love!"
Chrom and Sully stared at him as if fish were swimming from his ears, "...The hell are you?"
The man snickered, "Ha! Is the lady intrigued? Of course you are—it's only natural. I am myth and legend! I am he who strides large across history's greatest stage! The man who puts the 'arch' in 'archer'! My name, dear lady, is Vi—"
Sully sighed, "Yeah gonna hafta stop you right there Ruffles, I'm kinda in the middle somethin' here." Sully was just about to get back to the fight, the man called out once more, "Virion! ...Er, my name. It's Virion. W-wait! Where are you going? Pray, at least tell me your name!"
Sully sighed, "I'm Sully...I'm a shepherd..."
"'Sully'! How divine! A starkly beautiful name, as befits its owner, truly. Will you marry me, my dearest Sully?
Sully furrowed her brow, " W-Will I what now? Is this some sort of joke? Cuz if it is, my boot in your mouth is about to be the punchline!"
Virion snickered once more, "I realize my manly figure and noble bearing can be overwhelming. 'Tis common! So please, don't feel pressured to answer right a—"
"How's this for an answer!?" Sully barked, kicking Virion the the strength of a horse, knocking him to the ground. Virion lie there, face up, struggling until eventually he managed to get into an upright position, "G-goodness, but those shapely legs certainly can kick, can't they?" As Sully was about to join the fight, Virion called out once more, "Wait."
Sully groaned and turned to face him, "What is it now, twinkle toes?"
"P-please, milady! Allow me to accompany you, at least! Mine is a cold, empty world without you. I shall be your most willing servant, and you, in turn, will give my life purpose..."
Sully sighed, "Gods, fine! Anything to shut you up!" Virion smiled, jumping upon her horse, drawing his bow to take out as many targets as he possibly could.

"I think that's the last of them," Frederick said, returning his spear to his back.
Robin sat on the ground, out of breath, "Whatever the hell those things were, they're a real pain to deal with."
"Well, thankfully Sully was here to help us out," Chrom said.
"And what of me, my good sir?" Virion asked, expecting praise.
"I think I could do without you." Virion frowned as Sully, Lissa and Robin laughed at Chrom's jest. "Well, it's almost morning, we should head to Ylisstol at once." As the group was about to depart, the masked man appeared before them once again. "You again," Chrom said, "Where did you go? We could've used your help in battle."
"My apologies," the man said, "There were more heading from the opposite direction, so I thought to take care of them."
"Regardless, you saved my sister's life, and you have my thanks. My name is Chrom, may I know yours?"
"My name is-" The stranger seemed to stop himself. He looked away for a moment before turning back to face the group. Robin noticed her balling his fist, then relaxing his hand. Something about his posture, his mannerisms. Was it apprehension? Sadness? Maybe both. An awkward moment of silence would finally be broken as the stranger spoke his name. "You may call me Marth."
"Marth?" Chrom asked, "Like the hero-king of legend? Well, you certainly fight like a hero, may I ask where you learned to wield the blade?"
The stranger turn his back, "I am not here to talk about myself. This world teeters on the brink of a horrible calamity. Tonight was but a prelude. You have been warned." Marth began to walk away, leaving the group in shock. "W-wait, what's teetering where now?" Lissa asked, confused.
"Not much of a conversationalist,” Frederick observed, “Though I'm willing to wager we may see this 'Marth' again, but in any case we must make haste to the capital." The group started to walk to their destination, all except for Chrom, as he noticed Robin still standing there, a single tear rolling down her cheek. "Robin, are you ok?"
Robin then faced Chrom, wiping the tear away, "Sorry, it's just that...that Marth...he seemed so sad, I-I dunno."
"I'm sure he'll be ok, Robin," Chrom reassured her, "Now come on, let's go to Yilsstol."

Chapter Text

Ylisstol was a bright and lively town, filled with markets and children running about. It was certainly a place Robin could see herself settling down in. "It appears Ylisstol was spared from the horrors of last night," Frederick observed, "Thank the gods it seems to have been limited to the forest."
"Indeed," Chrom said, "Though I don't doubt that there have been other places that have been affected, we should inform Emmeryn."
"Hey, there she is now!" Lissa said, pointing to a tall, blonde woman in green and white robes walking through the streets while a dozen soldiers shadowed her. "Is it safe for her to be walking amongst the people like this?" Robin asked, "It seems dangerous."
"She stands as a symbol of peace," Chrom explained. "At the dawn of our age, the world was plunged into darkness by the fell dragon, Grima. It was only thanks to the efforts of the first exalt and the divine dragon, Naga that peace was restored to the realm. It is that peace that she represents."
"I see," Robin replied, "Then if that's the case, the Ylissean people are lucky to have her."
Lissa nodded, "She's also the best big sister in the whole wide world!"
Robin laughed, "I can imagine she-" Robin stopped mid sentence, the words Lissa said now registering, "W-wait, big sister!? Th-then that means!?"
"You knew milord's name but not this?" Frederick asked incredulously.
"Y-you said you were shepherds!"
Chrom laughed, "And we are, in a manner of speaking. We just have a LOT of sheep to care for, is all."
Robin immediately dropped to her hands and knees, bowing, "Ch-Chrom! uh, P-Prince Chrom! Sire! please forgive my distasteful manners, I'd no idea I was in the presence of royalty!"
"Just Chrom is fine, I never was one for formalities anyhow."
Robin slowly got up, laughing nervously, "Still, I-I guess that explains why Frederick puts up with the teasing."
"Oh, the sacrifices I must make for the good of the realm," Frederick sighed.
"It looks like she's returning to the castle," Chrom said, "Would you like to meet her, Robin?"
"I-I'd be honored to."

Ylisstol Castle was massive! It was hard to believe that people could actually live in a building of this magnitude. Robin was spinning just to be able to observe everything, from the patterns on the wall to the art upon the ceiling. How were they able to do such beautiful work on a surface so high up? Magic probably. She then walked over to what she thought was a knight in armor, only to poke it and realize it was only an armor stand. "Oh Chrom, Lissa, welcome home! Good day to you as well Frederick, how have you all fared?" A kind, but stern voice called out.
"Well, we should have less problems with bandits now, Emm," Chrom said.
"Wonderful! And our people?"
"Safe as we can possibly guarantee them, though we should be sure to increase security around the borders, Plegia seems to insist on sending instigators."
"Forgive me, milord," A white-haired woman said, kneeling before him, "I should've rounded up my pegasus knights and taken care of them."
"At ease, Phila," Chrom replied kindly, "Your place was here, keeping the Exalt safe."
"Y-You're too kind, milord."
"And besides," Lissa added, "We had some help!"
Emmeryn looked to see Robin still taking in the sight of the castle, "You speak of your companion here?"
Robin's attention was drawn to where she was mentioned as Chrom spoke, "Her name is Robin, she helped us to drive the brigands to whence they came, so I've decided to make her a Shepherd."
Emmeryn smiled, "It seems we owe you a debt, Robin."
"N-Not at all milady," Robin said nervously, "I was just...doing what was right, that's all."
Frederick then stood up, "Your Grace, forgive me if I am speaking out of turn, but Robin has claimed to have lost their memory. However, it is only that: A claim. She could very well be a brigand herself or even a Plegian spy. She is armed and quite the skilled fighter so I must ask that we exercise caution."
"Frederick!" Chrom shouted, upset that he was still hung up over the mystery of Robin's origin, especially given the events of last night. Robin was starting to clam up, sweating as if she'd been walking through a desert. She feared she might be thrown into a dungeon or something, or worse!
"And yet, Chrom has allowed her into the castle, does she have your trust then?" Emmeryn asked.
"She saved innocent lives while risking her own," Chrom said, "No brigand I've met would do something as noble as she."
"Wonderful," Emmeryn replied, turning to Robin, "It would seem you have earned Chrom's trust and mine as well."
"Th-thank you, milady," Robin said, relieved, "I promise I shall not let you down."
"Something tells me I know you will not," Emmeryn smiled, "Though I do appreciate your prudence as always, Frederick. I know I've made a fine choice in appointing you Chrom and Lissa's guardian, I hope they do sing your praises as well."
"They sometimes express something akin to praise, milady." Frederick answered, "Though I must also inform you of the strange creatures we encountered on the road."
"Some of my knights reported sightings of strange creatures as well," Phila said, "There's a chance those two things could be related."
"Then perhaps a meeting with the council is in order." Frederick, Chrom, Phila, if you please." Emmeryn and the three people she named got up and began walking off as Chrom turned to Lissa, "Be sure to show her to the Shepherd's Garrison," he said, ruffling her hair.
Lissa then ruffled it back to her usual style, blowing a raspberry at Chrom. She then cleared her throat and turned to Robin, "C'mon, you get a chance to meet the others!" Lissa began running to the entrance of the castle as Robin followed at a much slower pace. Perhaps there's a chance one of these other shepherds could know of her identity.

"Well, here we are!" Lissa said, beaming, "The Shepherd's Garrison!" Robin looked around at the seemingly shabby makeshift barn of some kind. There were a few beds and a small armory in the back, as well as a quest board near the entrance, and finally, a large, rectangular table in the middle where both Virion and Sully sat, along with some new faces: A blonde, ragged man, a silver-haired girl in some unfamiliar armor and a posh-looking blonde woman who seemed extremely out of place. She ran up to meet Lissa, her accent the first thing Robin focused on as she spoke, "Lissa, my treasure, are you alright!?"
Lissa turned to face the woman, smiling, "Oh, hey Maribelle!"
Maribelle scoffed, "Hey yourself! I've just sprouted fourteen gray hairs worrying about you! Fourteen!"
"C'mon Mari, you worry too much, I can handle myself just fine, though I could definitely do without the bugs and bear barbeque."
"Heya, squirt!" The ragged man said, looking around, "Where's Chrom? I'm sure he was in quite a pinch without ol' teach and his trusty axe!"
Lissa giggled, "Oh so you're 'Teach' now, Vaike? And here I thought one could only be born lacking wit."
"Hah, never doubt The Vaike!" he responded cheerfully, until he was almost able to put two and two together, "W-Wait, was that an insult?"
"Oh, I was wondering about Chrom as well," the other woman said meekly, "Is he fairing well?"
"Tsk tsk, poor Sumia," Maribelle said, shaking her head, "She was simply beside herself with concern. So much so that she would've been better off blindfolded whenever we'd spar, she most likely would've gotten far less bruises."
"H-Hey!" Sumia cried out, "H-He's our leader and crown prince after all! And you were worried about him too!"
"True dear, but I at least know when to focus on what's in front of me."
"So whose the stranger?" Vaike asked, sizing Robin up.
"Our newest recruit!" Lissa said excitedly, "Robin here's definitely a powerhouse, you should see all the neat tricks she's got up her sleeves!"
"Oh yeah?" Vaike asked as he stood up, "Can she do this!?" He took a deep breath in and held it for a few seconds, afterward releasing a long, obnoxious burp.
"Well, I definitely have a lot to learn in the art of belching, 'teach'" Robin said, "Though I am pleased to make all of your acquaintances."
"Vaike, that was abhorrent! Must you even pollute the very air we breathe with your buffoonery?" Maribelle scolded, then turning and pointing to Robin "And you! Don't encourage his asinine behavior! I'd hoped you'd be cut from finer cloth, considering you've become fast friends with Lissa here, though it appears I was mistaken!" She then left in a huff, with Vaike mocking her in a high pitch voice, leaving Robin feeling a little guilty. "Don't feel too bad about that, Robin," Lissa said, reassuring her, "Maribelle is slow when warming up to new people, I'm sure she'll come around. Eventually."

Robin spent the next few minutes getting acquainted with the others, unfortunately none of them seemed to know of her or her origin. It was discouraging, but at the very least, she had more companions. She also began listening to all of their strengths and weaknesses, hoping it would be key info for the next battle. Eventually, Chrom and Frederick entered, as attention was drawn to them. Sumia suddenly stood up, "C-Captain, you've returned! I was-we were so-" Sumia's sentence ended abruptly as she tripped, landing face first.
"Sumia, are you ok? Is it your boots again?"
Sumia quickly rose to her feet, "Yes-I mean n-no! I mean-," she then sighed, having already made a fool of herself.
"Alright," Chrom said, directing his words to those in the room, "Alright, everyone. We have ourselves a new mission from the Exalt herself: We're to go to Regna Ferox and seek their aid against those who threaten our homes, now I will say that this mission is strictly voluntary, so if-"
"I volunteer!" Lissa called out, raising her hand.
Vaike sneered, "You won't be leavin' ol' teach on the sidelines, cap."
"I've always wanted to visit Regna Ferox myself," Sully chimed in, "ought to be quite the experience."
"Anywhere you go, I shall follow, my dear," Virion responded with his usual over-the-top bravado as Sully used the butt of her spear to push him back.
"Regna Ferox?" Robin said, confused.
"A realm just north of Yilsse," Lissa explained, "Don't know much about it myself, but what I do know is that they're always up for a fight!"
"D-Don't forget me, sir!" an unfamiliar voice called out as Robin turned to see a tall, armored man, "I-I've been here the whole time..."
I-I'd like to go as well," Sumia said, "Though I think I'll just slow the others down if I do."
"Worry not, milady," Frederick said, "You could stay behind the main group and watch and learn. After all, there's only so much training can teach you."
"O-Ok."
Chrom smiled, "Thanks guys, I mean it. Well, those of you who are coming on this expedition, you should train up and rest early, we leave at 10 sharp."

Chrom looked out onto the field, seeing the ashen creatures from before roaming the field, "Alright, we've got a few risen up ahead, though it's only a small party of them, we should take care of them before they can get somewhere they can do damage."
"Risen?" Robin asked.
"That's what the council has elected to call them," Frederick explained.
"Now before we engage, I need to make sure everyone who has signed up is present and accounted for, so when I call on you, be sure to let me know you are here." Chrom proceeded to name everyone currently standing there as they all announced their presence to him, that is until he got to another name, "Stahl." No one said anything, "Um, Frederick, where's Stahl?"
Frederick shrugged, "I do not know, milord."
"Ok then, looks like Stahl is a no-"
"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIT!" Chrom turned to see a brown haired man with silver armor with green highlights and a woman in robes and a large pointy hat with glasses riding upon a horse, stopping just before the group, "Ah, there you are Stahl, might I ask what took you?"
"I-I was having breakfast when Miriel here informed me that you all left an hour ago! I didn't even know when you were leaving so I thought I had time! Man, there muffins, and cakes, and...well, I can tell you all about it as we march."
"That's weird," Lissa said, "Vaike told me he informed everyone that-Vaike! did you forget to tell Stahl when we were leaving?"
"The Vaike never forgets! I just...don't always remember, is all."
Lissa facepalmed, "I swear, you'd forget your own name if you weren't shouting it all the time, at least tell me you remembered your axe."
"Hey, that was one time!" Vaike rebutted, before scratching his chin, "Ok two, but training sessions don't count! Besides, I got it right-" As Vaike reached for his axe, he felt nothing there! "H-Hey, my axe is gone!"
"I was wondering what kind of ignoramus would so carelessly abandon their weapon on the side of the road, now I know such a person exists, embodying the very essence of reckless irresponsibility," Miriel said, handing an Axe to Vaike, "Perhaps I might consider employing magic to affix it firmly to the delicate surface of your hand, thereby rendering it an inseparable part of your very being."
"Thanks, Mirel," Vaike said, retrieving his trusty weapon, "Er, for finding my axe anyway."
"Alright, that's enough," Chrom said, "Now, all we need now is a plan of attack."
"Actually, I have an idea," Robin said, turning away from the battlefield and back to the others, "Last night, I was preparing some strategies and weapon advantages in case we ever were to face an enemy on the road and I have a pretty good idea for what to do here." She picked up a stick and began drawing each of the enemies as dots, "Ok so, uhh, Sully, Vaike and Virion will attack the risen on the left. He's got a sword, so Sully should have the advantage, especially if she is to attack here, I'd say she'd have an 82% chance to hit and in case the attack isn't fatal, Virion can finish him. Vaike and Sully can also cover Virion in case this lancer here attempts to attack him. Meanwhile, Stahl, Miriel, and Frederick can take care of the axe wielding risen on the right, since I see Stahl has a sword, he'll have an advantage, as well as having an 86% chance to hit and Frederick and Miriel can back him up."
"I'm curious as to what enigmatic force or undeniable evidence imbues you with such unwavering confidence in your assertions," Miriel said, "However, I shall refrain from engaging in any sort of dispute regarding the intricacies and nuances of your proposed plan."
"Uhh, thanks?" Robin then turned back to the drawing, "Chrom and I will make our way down the middle, being sure to protect Lissa, since she's our only healer and can be within close enough range to heal someone should they be injured."
"Wow, that's quite the intricate plan," Chrom said, impressed, "Ok, let's do it!"
Frederick shook his head, "Are you sure about this, milord?"
"Robin has yet to steer us wrong," Chrom answered confidently, "I've no reason to doubt her judgement now."

Robin let out a sigh of relief. No casualties. A few minor injuries here and there, but all in all, nothing Lissa couldn't handle. "In the very beginning, I must confess, a healthy dose of skepticism coursed through my veins," Miriel said, walking over to Robin, "However, it is abundantly clear that you possess an innate and extraordinary talent for strategy, an almost instinctual prowess that marks you as a true natural-born tactician."
Robin chuckled nervously, "Th-Thanks."
"I second that, Miriel," Stahl said, beaming, "I think this was one of the few times I haven't been badly hurt during one of our more longer expeditions."
"Yeah," Lissa piped up, "Just when you think swordsmanship and magic wasn't enough, boom! She's a master tactician as well!"
"Hey, that's not fair you can do all this cool crap yourself!" Vaike said, "Teach the Vaike how to shoot fire too!"
Chrom laughed, "Seems everyone here is happy you're a part of our crew now, Robin. And after seeing you guide our swords with such expertise, I'm thinking about making you our new tactician."
Wow, I'm honored," Robin answered, "Guess that means I've got some big shoes to fill now."
Frederick then stepped forward, "I cannot in good faith let you go through with this, milord. Not only has Robin only been a Shepherd for three days, but there's still a chance she could very well be conspiring with our enemies!"
Chrom frowned, "Even after our battle today, you still don't trust her?"
"If anything, today has just reinforced my concern," Frederick answered sternly, "You're telling me that she just happened to forget all about her talent for tactics only for it to surface when it's convenient? Bah, it's like I said before: It's a load of pegasus dung!"
"As I told Emm before, Robin has already won my trust," Chrom replied, his tone matching Frederick's, "I appreciate the concern Frederick, I truly do, but as it stands now, Robin is our ally. What's more, her tactics could prove to be the edge we need should Plegia get the war they want. And as it stands on that front, it could happen sooner rather than later."
Frederick huffed, "Fine, I'll be sure to drop this subject. At least, for now." He then walked over to Robin, placing a firm, unfriendly grip on her shoulder, "And as for you, milord may have put his faith in you but I have no reason to do so myself. Since I know not which head he's thinking with, allow me tell you this now: You make one slip-up, take one step out of line, give me just one reason to believe you would hurt milord or milady, and I will not hesitate to put you down." He then pushed Robin back as he began marching on. Chrom then ran to Robin, "Hey, you ok?"
"I'll live," Robin said, "Though he could stand to work on his people skills."
Chrom laughed, "That's true. But don't worry, I'm sure he'll warm up to you. Eventually." Even still, Robin was admittedly shaken up by Frederick's outburst. She somewhat understood where he was coming from, but at this point, it was like he was paranoid. Had something happened for him to be like this? She'll have to ask Chrom about it later. "In any case, we should probably catch up to him before he marches to Ferox all on his own."

With sunset fast approaching, the group began setting up camp for the night. Since the journey to Regna Ferox would take a week, both to get there and the journey home, Chrom and Frederick made sure to pack tents and rations, since Regna Ferox was known for its extreme weather conditions and lack of wild game. Camp was set up rather quickly. Hopefully camp could be set up just as quickly there as here. Chrom sat down on a log surrounding a roaring fire alone with his thoughts as Lissa sat down beside him, "Something on your mind?" she asked him.
Chrom then turned to Lissa, "What do you think about Robin?"
"You know, it's rude to answer a question with your own question, right?"
"Yeah, sorry," Chrom said, turning over to see Robin interacting with the other Shepherds, "It's just...I wanna make sure I made the right decision with making her our tactician, you know? And it doesn't help Frederick's paranoia has me second-guessing myself."
"Well, I see where you're coming from," Lissa answered, "Well, in my personal opinion, Robin is probably one the coolest people I've ever met. She may have lost her memory, but she's strong, funny, heck she's stuck her neck out for people she barely knows! I don't care what Frederick says about her, Robin is definitely cool in my book and you actually made a good decision for once by making her our official tactician."
"For once!?"
Lissa laughed, "Looks like that broke you outta your stupor." Lissa continued laughing as Chrom joined her. Moments like this were nice. Almost enough to take Chrom's mind off of an inevitable war. "Hey, Chrom!" Chrom looked back up, seeing Robin, "You might wanna check this out." Chrom and Lissa followed Robin over to a small crowd formed by the rest of the Shepherds, minus Frederick. There, in the middle of the field stood a white pegasus, wings folded and standing there, staring back at the crowd. "A pegasus, out here?" Chrom questioned, "Think there's a knight nearby?"
"If there was, I doubt they would've left their steed out for so long," Robin observed, "What's more, it's almost dark."
Chrom unsheathed his sword and planted it firmly in the ground, then began to slowly approach the animal. He held out his hands, hoping it would interpret this as a sign he wouldn't hurt it. Unfortunately, this was not the case, as it started whinnying, flapping its wings and raising its front hooves as Chrom jumped back, "Woah, there! Easy."
"Just a minute, captain," Sumia called out, running to meet him.
"Sumia, stay back!" Chrom warned, "The beast is craven, I don't want it to hurt you!"
"It looks hurt more than anything," Sumia said, "In any case, I got this!" Sumia slowly approached the pegasus, who was wary of her presence at first, but eventually was calmed by it. Sumia got close enough to pet its soft, white fur, "Shh, it's gonna be alright. We won't hurt you, I promise." Everyone else just stared in awe. "How did you do that?" Chrom asked.
"That was incredible!" Lissa shouted.
Sumia chuckled, "It-it's nothing, really, I just always had a way with animals."
"Well, in any case, Lissa can help you heal any wounds." Chrom walked back over to the crowd as Lissa ran to meet with Sumia.

"Sumia truly is something else," Robin observed as Chrom drew his blade from the earth.
"She was training to be a pegasus knight before she joined up with the Shepherds," Chrom explained, "Though from what I heard, she gave up her position to another."
Robin nodded, her remembering what had happened this morning, "Chrom, I've been meaning to ask you something. Was Frederick always this paranoid about new people?"
Chrom shook his head, "Not like he is now, though I believe you're wondering why he's so...cautious."
"Yeah, maybe knowing would make it easier to earn his trust, though I will admit I'm more curious if anything.
"I don't know a lot of the details behind a lot of it, but ten years ago, Frederick was first appointed Lissa and I's guardian, there was another knight tasked with being our guardian as well. From what I saw, they were pretty inseparable. Five years later, a small band of Plegian brigands invaded the castle. They were there to assassinate Emm. Hadn't not been for Frederick, they would've. Frederick's friend as it turns out, was bribed by the Plegians in order to get the layout of the castle and in exchange, they slaughtered him."
Robin frowned, "That's horrible! I-I can't possibly imagine how he must've felt."
"Frederick was never one for showing his emotions," Chrom said, "But back when it was both him and his friend, he managed to smile, hell even got a laugh outta him. I don't claim to speak for him, but I don't doubt he blames himself for that incident." Chrom and Robin find themselves back at the campfire, "Well, I don't think this night should end on a sour note, do you like marshmallows? I brought a whole bag of em with me."
"That sounds nice," Robin answers, "but for now, I think I'm gonna retreat to my tent for the night, I've got some studying to do as our new tactician."
Chrom seemed kinda bummed at that answer, but he nodded, "Right, well perhaps I could bring you a marshmallow then?" Robin nods as she heads for her tent.

Robin sat on the floor of her tent, setting up a small chess board and played a game with herself. She played meticulously for both sides, trying to keep the pieces from both sides from being captured by each other. She eventually reached a point where neither piece could move without capture. She then sat there contemplating the board, wondering how either side could win without sacrificing a piece. She then pushed the game aside and began reading a book. It was then that Chrom walked in, holding a marshmallow on a stick, "I uh, did promise to bring you a marshmallow."
"Oh, thanks," Robin said, taking the stick and eating the marshmallow. Chrom went to leave but noticed the chess board, "You know how to play?" Robin nodded as the two began to reset the board to its original state, Chrom playing white, playing for what felt like hours. Chrom shook his head, "Can't believe how amazing you are at this."
"I'm a bit surprised too," Robin said, "That or you're just terrible."
Chrom laughed, "Well, I was never very good at this. I learned to play for Lissa since she's pretty good at this and it's honestly kinda fun seeing her smile, but I can do without the teasing though."
"I could teach you," Robin offered.
"Thanks, but it's getting kinda late, so after we get that alliance with Regna Ferox?"
"Sure, I see no problem with that." And so, Chrom left for his tent as Robin picked up another book to read. She figured it would be best to study the land of Regna Ferox more, taking in small, finer details such as weather, terrain and even customs before eventually passing out from exhaustion.

Brrr, I'm f-freebing, F-Frebberick!" Lissa complained upon the back of Frederick's steed.
"Fear not, milady!" Frederick said, draping a blanket around, "So long as you stay upon my mount, she will protect you from this wretched winter!"
"I-it's still s-so cold! I hope th-they'll let us in t-to discuss our alliance," Lissa retorted, then she sneezed and sniffled, "Oh, I hate Ferox!"
"Maybe you should've thought to wear pants this time," Chrom retorted as Lissa then stuck her tongue at him, "Maybe my next sneeze should be directed at you face!"
Robin stared with amazement at the fortress, "So this is Regna Ferox?"
"It's only the fortress that guards their borders," Chrom explained, "I've never been to Ferox myself, but I hear it's quite massive. Let's hope I can convince them to let us in. My negotiation skills are...less than ideal."
"I'm sure you'll think of some-" Frederick stopped mid sentence as he noticed movement atop the fort, "Milord, I'm not sure but it looks like the Feroxi troops are mobilizing!"
"What? Why!?"
"Your guess is as good as mine, milord. In any case, be prepared for anything. I'd rather not bring you back missing a limb." Just then, a short haired blonde woman in metallic silver and green armor emerged atop the fort, glaring down at the group from above, "Halt! Who goes there?!"
Chrom looked back at Frederick as he shrugged, then turned back to face the stranger, "I am Prince Chrom of the halidom Yilsse, I've come here to seek audience with the Khan!" Chrom then began to walk forward, only to be pulled back by Sumia as a spear that landed mere inches from where he was, his face turning pale, “Are you alright, captain?”
“Yeah,” Chrom said, out of breath, “Thanks, Sumia.” Sumia smiled, blushing at his praise.
"Not another step!" the woman warned, "That was but a warning shot, any more funny business will turn you into the world's largest pincushion!"
"Hold milady, we are not your enemy!" Frederick called out, "Lady Emmeryn herself has sent us to discuss matters of mutual interest!"
The woman scoffed at this, "My only interest is keeping you 'Ylisseans' out of our borders! Tell me, do you think I'm some fool trying the same trick twice, brigand!?"
"B-brigand!?" Frederick said indignantly, "You would dare insult Lady Emmeryn's own flesh and blood!? I ought to have your head for such insolence!!"
"Ha! And I'm the queen of Valm!" The woman rebutted, "You should know that around these parts, it's a felony to impersonate royalty! If you truly are this prince Chrom and not some impersonator, you'll prove it on the field of battle!" The woman then retreated back to her position as several soldiers emerged from both sides of the fort, armed to the teeth.
"Well, I was hoping it wouldn't come to this," Chrom said, sighing.
"F-Forgive me, milord, I was rash and spoke out of turn."
"Well, if they've been having brigand troubles, I doubt this wouldn't be the natural outcome to this," Chrom then turned to Robin, "Any ideas?"
Robin nodded, "Ferox, despite it's frigid weather has relatively clear skies year-round, meaning Sumia could use her pegasus to fly over the fortress, but the Feroxi will no doubt have archers at the ready, so our safest bet would be to attack the fortress from both sides, that way we can overwhelm them before they box us in."
"Yeah, that makes sense," Chrom nodded, "What did you have in mind?"
"I was thinking you take Sully, Stahl, Frederick and Virion and attack the left side while I take Sumia, Lissa, Miriel and Vaike and attack the right."
"Are you sure you wanna split up for this?" Chrom asked.
"I'm sure," Robin answered, "As it stands, you and I have somewhat equal commanding skills, so it would be best if we both led separate groups."
"Well, if you're sure I won't argue."
"What about me?" Chrom let out a scream, whipping around and pointing his blade at the orange-armored man from a few days prior, "O-oh, Kellam, sorry I didn't notice you arrive."
"I've been here the whole time, sir," Kellam said, "In fact, I was just a few feet from where you guys were, shouting for you. I am still a Shepherd, aren't I?"
Chrom sighed, "Of course you are, you're just...very quiet. I'm surprised none of the Feroxi spotted you."
"No kidding, I was pretty loud, I think."
"In any case, Kellam can go with Chrom," Robin said, "I get the feeling you'll
need the extra muscle."
"Right," Chrom said, "Shepherds, to arms!" The groups then formed up and went their separate ways.

Robin parried a Feroxi soldier's axe and knocked him back as Sumia, atop her pegasus, struck another foe with the blunt end of her spear, whispering "Sorry about that". Vaike then took another soldier down by cutting his spear's tip and hitting him with the blunt end of his axe. Robin picked up a key from the soldier she had bested, realizing that she could use it to open the door at the top of the fort. If all goes to plan, both her and Chrom's groups would form up at the top to overwhelm the Feroxi there. Robin then saw Lissa healing Vaike's wounds. Seems he must've been hurt by the soldier he fought. Robin made her way over to them, "Hey Lissa, can I ask you something?"
"You just did," Lissa said, laughing to herself, "Ok, what's up?"
"Chrom and Sumia seem pretty close, and from what I've seen, the entire group seems very close-knit. Are there any instances of any of those friendships becoming...something more?"
Lissa raised an eyebrow, "Not from what I've seen, but Sumia and Chrom? puh-lease! Chrom wouldn't know the first thing about romance if it hit him in the face. Why do you ask?"
"Simply to see if there were, and since I believe pairing them would make battles a lot easier," Robin explained, "Now come on, we've got a battle to win!" Robin ran ahead while Lissa stayed behind, gears turning in her head. "Waaaaaaaaait, first Chrom asks about Robin last night and now Robin asks about relationships in the Shepherds!? Oh ho ho, I think I smell something brew-ACHOO!!" Lissa sneezed, then sniffled, "Yeah, I'll think about this later, Ugh, I hate Ferox..." Lissa then ran to catch up with the others as Robin unlocked the door. Two Feroxi soldiers charged at Robin as Miriel blasted them back with fire magic. "Thanks, Miriel," Robin said with a sigh of relief.
"Let me assure you that there exists absolutely no cause for concern or distress, for the matter at hand presents itself as an insignificantly trifling issue." Sumia and Vaike then charged two more soldiers as on the other side, Chrom and Frederick dispatched of the soldiers on their end. Chrom was then shot at by an archer, which he quickly dodged as Frederick swiftly took him down and disarmed him. Both armies reconvened and surrounded the woman as she looked from side to side realizing quickly she was outnumbered as Chrom pointed his sword at her. She then threw down her lance and raised her hands above her head, "Fine, do your worst!" She said, staring down the edge of Chrom's blade, "Just know the entirety of Regna Ferox will hunt you down for the rest of your days!"
Chrom then sheathed his sword and outstretched his hand, "I told you earlier, I'm only here to speak with the Khan, I have no desire to cause harm to our relations when we are in dire need."
The woman's eyes widened, realizing she was being spare as she quickly dropped to her knees, "So you were telling the truth. Forgive me, your highness, we've had a band of brigands pass by fairly recently claiming to be from Yilsse, I shall see to it I am punished for my transgressions against you."
"At ease," Chrom said, "I know you were just doing what you needed to in order to defend your people, so I see no reason to have you punished."
the woman rose to her feet, "You are most merciful, Prince Chrom. I am called Raimi, and I shall take you to speak with the Khan now, please follow me." The group followed Raimi down a flight of stairs that led to inside the fortress and through a door that led to the other side.

Chapter Text

The Shepherds found themselves in a small throne room, its chair missing a ruler. Raimi then turned to Chrom, "Please excuse me for a moment, I shall now inform the Khan of your arrival." She then departed, leaving the Shepherds alone in the room. "You know, I was expecting the Khan's throne to be a bit bigger," Chrom observed.
"Well, the Feroxi are known to value combat prowess," Robin said, "I did read up on this place, and apparently they even treat battle as if it were like Ylisse's politics."
"Then I guess it's safe to assume the Khan is out training then," Chrom said, "You know, I made an excellent decision in making you our tactician." Frederick rolled his eyes at this statement.
"A warrior ruler," Robin said, "Heh, I can picture him now...A giant of a man of unparalleled thew, his broad chest covered in hair, maybe an eyepatch too."
"Am I now? Please do go on!" Robin and Chrom whipped around to see a tall, tanned woman with bleached blonde hair tied back in a large, messy ponytail and wearing silver armor with red highlights.
Y-You're the-" Chrom stopped himself from saying something potentially stupid, "Th-That is to say...The Khan I assume?"
"One of them, yes." she said, "Name's Flavia, the East-Khan. I apologize for any troubles Raimi may have caused for you at the border, though she told me your troops gave her a run for her money, I must say, I'm quite impressed."
"I'm honored to hear your praise," Chrom said, "But, I couldn't have done it without my tactician here." He pointed to Robin, who was trying to slink behind him out of embarrassment, "I-I apologize if I offended you, K-Khan Flavia..." Robin said meekly.
Flavia laughed, "It's quite alright, after all it has been quite some time since a Yilssean has been inside our borders."
"Is it true that Ferox has had bandit problems recently?" Chrom asked.
"Yeah, unfortunately," Flavia answered, "In fact, they claimed to be Ylissean, but we found documents on the body of one of their captains that they were actually Plegian. From what I can gather from it, they were looking to escalate tensions between our kingdoms."
"Damn them!" Chrom blurted out, then realizing his mouth moved faster than his brain, "Uh, forgive me, Your Grace. That was...indecently put."
"Ha, damn them indeed!" Flavia replied, "And damn decency too while we're at it. Here we prefer plain speech."
Chrom smiled, "In that case, you should have a word with your damn border guards."
Flavia laughed, "Oh, I like you. You may not be one of blood, but you're definitely Feroxi in spirit! So, what can I do ya for?"
"I've come seeking aid on behalf of my sister," Chrom replied, "Plegia has been terrorizing us for quite some time, and hopefully with your help, we can quell their rowdiness."
"I would love to, Prince," Flavia said, "But unfortunately, I cannot supply you with troops at this time."
"What!? Why not!?" Lissa asked.
"I lack the authority to."
"Forgive my lack of understanding, but are you not the Khan?" Chrom asked.
"As I said before, I am ONE of the Khans," Flavia said.
"Oh, I read about this too," Robin blurted, "Every four years, The East and West Khans host a tournament, with the winner achieving total sovereignty over both kingdoms."
"Exactly," Flavia replied, "And the West-Khan won the last tournament, so as it stands, he has the final say when it comes to forging alliances."
Chrom looked down in defeat, "Does this mean we're to receive no aid?"
"I didn't say that," Flavia answered, "As it turns out, you've arrived here at the eve of the next tournament and I am in need of champions. And Raimi has told me that your Shepherds are quite capable. So if you compete for me and win, I shall grant you your alliance."
Chrom looked at her with confusion, "I don't understand, I would've thought Yilsseans would've had no place in Feroxi traditions."
"On the contrary, my friend," Flavia explained, "The Khans themselves don't fight, lest our nation be filled with blood-feuds and dead Khans! We instead select six champions each to represent us. And eventually we decided to not involve comrades or kin for the same reason. Usually the tournament is fought mostly with outsiders or champions with little to no relation to ourselves."
"Alright then," Chrom said, nodding his head, "There is no choice in the matter, my people are in desperate need of this alliance with not only Plegia's constant attacks, but also the added threat of the Risen, and if the quickest way to achieve it is to fight for you, then we shall take up our steel!"
"Well said, Prince," Flavia said, "Though I must warn you: I hear the West-Khan's champion, a very capable swordsman who I hear gave his last champion quite the beating."
"Then we shall defeat him by our nation's necessity."
"Well, here's to hoping you are as skilled with a blade as you are with words," Flavia said, "I shall now show you to your quarters for the night, it's getting late, after all."

The day of the tournament had finally arrived as the Shepherds waited in the arena tunnel. The sounds of what seemed to be hundreds, if not thousands cheering, readily awaiting for the carnage to come. "Alright everyone, listen up!" Chrom announced, "We must fight and win in order to attain our alliance with Regna Ferox. Seeing as only six of us can compete today, I figured to pass the honor of selecting our roster to Robin, since I trust her judgement."
Robin felt uneasy with all the cheering in the background as she stared at the remaining Shepherds, she then took a deep breath and began to speak, "For today, Chrom and I will be heading into battle. Frederick, since you're one of our strongest fighters, I've decided to select you." Frederick walked over to stand with both her and Chrom, "Next is Lissa, we'll most likely need a healer to keep us in the battle longer." Lissa ran over, quietly saying "yesssssssss" under her breath. "For our last two, it was a tricky decision, but I think Sumia should fight alongside us."
"R-Really?" Sumia asked, "I'm the least experienced member of the Shepherds, I'll probably make us lose..."
"All the more reason you should compete," Robin insisted, "This way, you'll get more combat experience in a somewhat controlled area."
"O-Ok!" Sumia said, a confident smile emerging upon her face, "I'll do my best!" Robin then looked over to Vaike, who had closed his eyes and crossed his fingers on both hands, as he chanted "Please pick me, please pick me!". "Alright, Vaike," Robin said, sighing, "I haven't decided who'd be our sixth member, plus you are quite skilled with your axe."
"Aw hell yeah!" Vaike said, pumping his fist, "Teach and his trusty ol' axe won't let you down!"
"Presuming, with all due consideration and an abundance of hopefulness, that you have taken the necessary steps to recall and securely transport your weapon of choice," Miriel said, rolling her eyes at Vaike's enthusiasm.
"The Vaike always has his trusty axe by his side!" Vaike retorted, pulling out his weapon and holding up with pride.
Miriel sighed, "By the Gods, you exhibit traits that could be colloquially described as those of a misguided simpleton."
"Alright, that's enough," Chrom said, "Ok, the rest of you, don't worry. We'll be sure to attain victory as you cheer us on!"
Sully crossed her arms, "Man, I wanted a part of the action myself!"
"Fret not, dear Sully," Virion said, "I assure you there'll be many a battle to come where you can shine as radiantly as the sun on a beautiful summer morn." Sully then used the butt her spear to push him back, causing him to frown like a sad puppy. As the six chosen fighters emerged onto the colosseum.

The arena's granite surroundings were set alight by a ring of large torches, their intense flames no match for the intensity of the crowd's cheering. Robin took a moment to take her new surroundings in, feeling as if she were a pig in a slaughter house as Chrom put a hand on her shoulder, "Are you alright?"
"Yeah, it's just...a lot," Robin said, searching the bleachers for the others, unable to find them in the sea of nameless faces as they began cheering even louder as the opposition emerged from the opposite side. She did see Sumia shyly waving to the crowd and Vaike just lapping it up, "Aw yeah! Let's hear it for the Vaike! I can't hear you!!"
"Well, for today, I was thinking we could fight together this time," Chrom suggested, "I mean, if that's ok with you."
"Y-yeah, I'd like that." Chrom then turned around to see Lissa giggling to herself, "Hey, what's so funny?"
"Oh, nothing," Lissa answered with a sly smirk, "Just thought of-" She stopped mid sentence and looked at the opposing side, shocked by what she saw "C-Chrom, look!" Chrom looked where Lissa was pointing. Behind the soldiers clad in heavy armor emerged Marth, still dawning his mask. Chrom stared with amazement, not expecting to reunite with the masked stranger this soon. "So we meet again. May I ask a question before we begin?"
Marth said nothing as he stared Chrom down. Chrom tried to get a read on his face, but without being able to see his eyes, he failed to discern anything from his opponent. Chrom then hmphed, "Fine then, perhaps our blades can speak for us!" Chrom then drew his blade, twirling it just before bringing it down with both hands before him, pointing toward his opponent. Marth did the same, almost mirroring Chrom's movement. Chrom's eyes widened upon seeing Marth's blade in full. When they first crossed, he had only caught glimpses of it as he was busy engaging with the Risen at the time, there were some thoughts about how strangely similar it was to his own, but he had his doubts, chalking it up to coincidence But seeing it in full now, there was no doubt in his mind. Their swords...they were one in the same! "Impossible! where did you get that!?" Chrom demanded.
No answer.
"There's no way...It can't be!" Chrom then immediately snapped out of his daze as he jumped into the air, somersaulted and struck at Marth, who elegantly parried the attack. Marth then charged and unleashed a flurry of blows Chrom struggled to parry each of them, their duel entrancing both sides. This swordsmanship, the stances he took, it was almost as if Chrom was fighting himself. Then, the two blades locked together, the warriors staring each other down after their blades' elegant dance, "Tell me," Chrom grunted, "Who taught you to fight like this!?" Marth then pushed Chrom back, the two twirling their blades in the air once more before striking at each other once more. Marth then performed the same attack Chrom began their duel with as he yelled out two words as her blade came down upon Chrom: "My father!" Chrom then jumped out of the way and rolled back to his previous position as Marth pointed his blade toward him, then quickly retreated behind the other warriors. Robin then ran up to him, "Chrom, are you alright!?"
"Y-Yeah," Chrom answered, panting, "Whoever this Marth is, his skill is quite incredible."
"Then we should mind our own distance," Robin said, "Sumia, Frederick, take care of the soldiers on the left. Vaike, you're with us as we take down the soldiers on the right. Lissa, stay out of danger and heal anyone who is injured during our battles."

Frederick's spear made contact with his foe's axe as his attack was blocked. He stabbed again, only to be parried this time, knocking the spear from his hands. As the axe's next strike was directed at Fredericks body, but Frederick smirked as he drew a sword at lightning speed and blocked the attack, smirking confidently, "Pick a god and pray!" then, disarmed and knocked him to the floor. The foe then raised his hands in surrender as Frederick sheathed his sword and picked up his spear. As he was doing this, another soldier tackled him to the ground and about to go for the kill! Just as Frederick felt his life flashing before his eyes, Sumia descended from the heavens upon her pegasus and struck his attacker down in one fell swoop. "You ok, Frederick?" She asked him.
Frederick groaned as he rose to his feet, "Thanks to you, milady. I owe you my life."
"It was nothing," Sumia said, chuckling nervously, "I-I was just doing what anyone else would do, that's all." The both then turned around as a third challenger approached them, dual wielding two hand axes. Frederick and Sumia looked at each other, nodded, then charged their new foe!

Vaike rolled to the left as his opponent's hammer left a crack in the floor where he once was, "C'mon ya overgrown tea kettle," he boasted, drawing his trusty axe, "You gotta be quicker than that if ya wanna beat the Vaike!" Vaike then charged, swinging his axe into the gut, leaving a dent in his armor as he let out a grunt. Vaike then went to pull his axe free...but it was stuck. Vaike pulled and pulled at his weapon, but it refused to budge as his opponent swung his hammer and knocked him into a wall. Vaike tried to return to his feet, but was too weak and could only manage to get into a sitting position as the behemoth approached him, dragging his hammer, "L-Listen man," Vaike began, "T-That 'overgrown tea kettle' thing? I-It's a compliment where I'm from, heheh." Before he could take another step, a bolt of lightning hit him from behind, electrocuting him and causing him to fall onto his back, twitching. Robin, Chrom and Lissa then ran over to Vaike, Lissa using her staff to heal Vaike's wounds. "You alright, Vaike?" Chrom asked, outstretching his hand.
Vaike swatted it away as he slowly got to his feet, "C'mon, Chrom, Teach totally had 'em right where he wanted 'em!"
Chrom shook his head, "Then I must've misjudged the situation then."
Vaike laughed, "But seriously, I do owe you for saving my ass there."
"Well, we took out two of them," Robin said, "And Sumia and Frederick are handling their share quite well. So that just leaves..." Robin then turned to see Marth approaching them slowly, sword in hand. Chrom nodded to Robin and the two approached similarly, drawing their own blades. The three then stopped just a few feet from each other as Chrom asked one singular question: "Tell me, who is your father?"
There was a long pause before Marth answered. "I've said too much for one day, sir..."
"Very well," Chrom said, readying his weapon, "Lissa owes you her life, and for that I am in your debt, but within these walls, I represent not just East-Khan, but the lives and interests of every last citizen of Ylisse! I cannot promise to stay my blade, but at the very least I can vow to not shame you."
A sly smile then formed on Marth's face, "I wasn't expecting such youthful arrogance. Very well, we shall see who shames who!"

Marth charged and stabbed at Chrom who deflected the blow with ease. Marth then spun and tried a vertical slash, only to be blocked by Robin this time. Marth then pushed her back as Chrom tried a thrust of his own, but was too slow as Marth swiftly jumped out of his range. "Damn, he's too fast!" Chrom said aloud.
"Then we just need to overwhelm him with sheer numbers!" Robin suggested. Chrom nodded as they charged Marth together this time. Marth dodged left, escaping Chrom's slash as she quickly moved her blade to block Robin's thrust, then dodged again, now drawing upon a rapier to pair up with her current weapon. Robin and Chrom struck over and over again, but both Marth's speed and elegance outpaced whatever they could do with sheer strength. They tried striking him at the same time, but all that accomplished was Marth pushing them both back and Robin getting disarmed, her sword clattering to the floor as she and Chrom jumped back. There was no way for her to retrieve her sword without Marth intercepting her. Even if Chrom could keep her distracted long enough for her to do so, it wouldn't change much. They'd be back at square one with Marth outpacing anything they could do. Worse, she and Chrom felt were beginning to tire as Marth seemed to have plenty of energy left, possibly being used to fighting multiple foes at once. This must be his way of fighting. Tiring his opponents by simply outmaneuvering them, and once they were tired enough, he'd go in for the kill. Marth would surely win at this rate, unless..."Chrom, I'm going to retrieve my sword. When Marth moves in to attack me, strike at his legs since he won't be able to block it!"
Chrom looked at her with confusion, "But he'll just dodge again!"
"That's what I'm counting on." Chrom didn't know what Robin meant by that but he just nodded, readying his blade. Robin then stared down Marth as her eyes darted between her sword and him, hoping he'd notice her intent. Robin then ran for her sword as Marth ran toward her to intercept. Perfect. As soon as Marth began her dash, Chrom ran at him and slashed his feet as he jumped out of the way again, "It's no use, I'm still too quick for your blade!" Marth boasted.
Robin then smirked, pulling out her tome, "Oh yeah? well how about my magic?" Marth's arrogant smile diminished into what appeared to be shock. He could maneuver past a multitude of spells, but since he was still airborne, there was no way for him to dodge the oncoming attack!
"Checkmate!" Robin then let out a blast of lightning towards him, hitting as soon as his feet touched the ground, blasting him into a wall as the crowd cheered. Marth barely returned to his feet, out of breath, “Impressive…if not surprising.” He then limped back through the tunnel. Robin then fell to her hands and knees panting, the battle taking a lot of her strength. Chrom then walked over to her, offering his hand, "Are you alright?"
"Y-Yeah, I'm fine," Robin said, taking it as he pulled her up, "Just...exhausted, is all."
"You know, we make a pretty good team, Robin," Chrom said, a smile upon his face.
"Well, I could deal with less of you charging in head first into battle with no strategy," Robin said, reciprocating Chrom's emotion, "But nevertheless, we kicked ass out there!"
Chrom laughed, "Yeah, and now, they've all seen it." He raised both of their hands to the sky causing the crowd's cheers to erupt. A team. Robin liked that idea.

"Ha HA! Well fought! I couldn't keep my eyes off of you two against that swordsman!" Flavia said as she entered the now mostly empty arena, "Not only do you have my respect, but also that alliance you needed! I shall provide you with soldiers whenever you ask of it."
"There are not enough words to express my gratitude, Khan Flavia," Chrom said, "I look forward to working with you in the future."
"Likewise! Now, how about we celebrate our newfound victory tonight, whaddya say!?"
"I would love to, but I'm afraid I must return to Ylisstol soon to report our success here, perhaps another time?"
Flavia smiled, "I'll hold you to it, prince!" She then ran off out of the colosseum. 
"Bah, any reason to celebrate and Flavia jumps on it...so unsportsmanlike."
Chrom turned to see a man taller than himself behind him, his skin a darker tan than Flavia's and almost matching Robin's description, "Uh, have we met before?"
"I'm the West-Khan you so rudely removed from power," he said, "Though you may call me Basilio. I must say, you're quite handy with a sword. I for sure thought I'd chosen the better man."
"What do you know about him?" Chrom asked, hoping for some answers to his origin.
"That 'Marth' character?" Basilio said, "Bah! If ya ask me, he's just some sellsword with delusions of grandeur. Only thing I know is that he just showed up one day and knocked my old champion flat. I will say, it was like love at first sight, though now I'm too old for such things."
"Do you know if he's staying in Ferox somewhere?"
"Doubt it, I went looking for him after the tournament, but he just up and disappeared. Quite the mysterious one, never even removed his mask."
Lissa sighed, "He's so dreamy, don't you think?"
"And YOU'RE so dreaming!" Chrom retorted, rolling his eyes.
"Come now, big brother," Lissa taunted, "Don't go getting jealous of me!"
Chrom let out an exasperated sigh as Robin began to laugh, "Well, it's nice to see Marth has at least one fan!"
Milord, milady," Frederick started, "If this riveting conversation is over, I suggest we begin our march back to the capital."
"Hold boy," Basilio called as Chrom was about to depart, "before you go, I'd like to give you a little something as a gift. Consider it West Ferox's contribution to Ylisse." He then turned to the other tunnel, "Lon'qu, get on out here!" A tall, pale man with scruffy brown hair walked out into the open, dawning a teal short-sleeved cloak with fuzzy cuffs with a black collar and yellow design. He also wore long black fingerless gloves, white pants and brown boots with cuffs similar to his top, "This here is Lon'qu! He's my champion. He's not much of a talker, but what he lacks in speech, he more than makes up for it with his skill!"
Lissa looked him up and down as he seemed to glare daggers at the group, "And Marth beat this guy!? But he looks so strong!" Lissa began to approach him when he suddenly took a step back, face beet-red and grasping his sword in its sheath, "A-Away, woman!"
Lissa yelped, then ran back, "W-What did I do?"
Basilio laughed, "Don't mind him, he's just very shy when it comes to the ladies, but I assure you, he is very capable. Has the makings of a fine Khan, this one!"
"You're certain about this?" Chrom asked.
"Certainly, he's your man now!"
"And Lon'qu? Have you no objections?"
Lon'qu shrugged, "He gives the orders, I stab people. I'm sure our roles are clear."
"Then welcome aboard," Chrom said with a smile, "I hope you'll find yourself comfortable around the others."
"So long as that one stays away from me, I shall do fine," Lon'qu replied, pointing to Lissa as she stuck her tongue at him.
"Well, until we meet again, Basilio," Chrom said as the Shepherds made their departure.
"Stay safe out there, boy! And take good care of my champion!"

"You've been staring at your sword for almost the entirety of our march," Robin observed, "Something on your mind?"
"Hm?" Chrom looked up, "Oh, it's nothing, just...Marth had the exact same weapon, down to the last detail."
"Well, a sword's a sword, right? Surely it's most likely from the same smith."
"That's the thing," Chrom answered, "That would be impossible."
"How come?"
"Because this is no ordinary blade," Chrom told her, "This is the Falchion, a sword forged by the goddess Naga herself. Legends say the blade was steeped in both her blood as well as the legendary Hero-King Marth's and used by the First Exalt to seal Grima away. Only a select few even within my family have ever been able to wield it. In the hands of anyone deemed unworthy by the blade, it's as dull as...well, Vaike. When I first struck at Marth, I thought at first it could have been just a replica. But the more we fought, the more I doubted that theory."
Robin nodded along, interested in the lore of Chrom's weapon, "I had no idea your weapon had such a colorful legacy, it's incredible! Though, why don't you think that Marth's weapon could have been just a replica?"
"Because Falchion is quite the powerful weapon. If I swing it hard enough at my opponent's sword, Falchion will crack it slightly, but enough where it's somewhat noticeable if you're looking for it. I observed Marth's weapon carefully during our second fight, and there were no cracks whatsoever! So, either Marth's replica was either forged with such extreme care that it could even rival the real deal's craftmanship or-" Chrom's sentence ended as he saw someone running towards them in the distance. Could it be a brigand? No, it couldn't be. There was only one. One who was quite short. "Could that be trouble, milord?" Frederick asked, readying his spear.
Chrom shook his head, holding his hand out to block him, "Doesn't look like it. In fact...I think it's a kid." As the figure drew closer, Chrom's assumption was correct. He was holding a boar-hunting spear, and looked he was...wearing a cooking pot as a helmet? He had light-brown curly hair, brown eyes and had a scar in the shape of an 'x' on his right cheek. He also wore blue commoner's shirt, grey pants and boots. When he saw Chrom's party, his face lit up as did his speed, "Puh..Please halp! You...you gots tuh...help us! I'm...I'm beggin' you, milords!" he was out of breath by the time he reached the party.
"Woah hey, slow down," Chrom said, putting his hand on his shoulder, "What's happened? Are you alright?" Chrom then looked up and saw another running towards them, definitely a brigand "There's the little pigle-" He started before seeing Chrom's face, "Ah, t-the Shepherds!!"
"I see what's going on here," Chrom said, readying his weapon, "You're trying to sell this poor boy into slavery! Unfortunately for you, I won't let that happen. So what'll it be? Fight and die? Or run and live?"
The bandit shook where he stood, shaking with fear, "Y-You'll regret this, rich boy!" he called out and ran back the way it came. Chrom sighed, sheathing his sword. No violence today, that's good. He then turned back to the boy, "Are you alright?"
"Y-Yeah, ya saved my life," the boy answered, "Thanks you, your Graciousness!"
"Let's hold off on the titles for now, you got a name?"
"Donny," he answered, "Er, that is, Donnel, Your Majestyful. I lives in a village just over yonder."
"Then shall we escort you home?" Chrom asked, "I would hate it if anything were to happen to you."
Donnel shook his head, "That's the problem, sir! My's village, it's been overrun with no-good, scum-sucking thugs! Er pardon mah language, Your Lordliness. Please sirs, ya gots to help us! They plan tuh ship us off tuh some bandit camp and...and my ma's one of em! S-She's all I gots in this world! Please, sirs!"
"Milord, we must make haste to Ylisstol," Frederick said, "We must report in to the Exalt immediately, I suggest sending in Phila and her pegasus knights to assist our young friend here."
Chrom looked at Donnel, a saddened look in his eyes as if he might cry. He then turned back to Frederick, "By the time Phila rounds up her knights, the village would've more than most likely been razed by those dastards! Donny came to us for help and as Shepherds, that is what we are sworn to do."
Y-Yuh mean it!?" Donnel asked, his eyes lighting up, "Aw thanks you, sir! I owes ya tons!"
"No need for thanks yet, Donny," Chrom said, "We’re just doing our duty. Now, lead the way!"
"Yessir!"

"And you're certain of this?" The lead bandit asked his subordinate.
"Swear upon my mother's grave, Roddick," he answered, "There's no mistaking them, they're the real deal Shepherds!"
Roddick chuckled, "You know, a noble like that prince would fetch us a pretty penny from House Ylisse. And I was looking to get my revenge on that brat for some time now, lost out on a major payday cuz of him!"
A woman then ran up to Roddick, a pleading look upon her face, "Please, we've got nuthin here of value to offer you, at least let our children go!"
"Shut yer mouth, pig!" Roddick barked as he backhanded the poor woman, causing her to fall to the floor as she looked up at him with contempt as Roddick's lackey looked at her intently, "Roddick, I think I recognize this one. She's the mother of the brat who managed to slip away!"
Roddick looked back at the woman, "Ah, I remember you. You're the bitch of the man who cracked my rib last time we were here."
"And you killed him for it, monster!" The woman yelled at him, "I only wish he did ya in the first time!"
Roddick laughed, "Small wonder yer brat's got more brass than brains if he really did exit yer womb. How's about we make ya watch as we gut him like the piglet he is?"
The woman's eyes widened," No, not my Donny. He's only a boy!" Tears began to well up in her eyes as the cruel bandits laughed. During their fit of depravity, another bandit walked in, "Oy, Roddick, we've got company!"
"Sounds like that prince is here," Roddick said, a wicked smile upon his face, "Listen up, I don't care what you do to the rest of them but the prince is mine to rout! If the boy is there too, I also wanna be the one who makes him squeal for his life!" The other two bandits nodded as they took up positions around the village.

The village looked as if it were abandoned, houses with broken doors and shops with smashed glass as far as they could see. The silence made the whole place seem eerie. Donnel then turned to Chrom, "This here's my village. I don't think they got around to shippin' us off yet. Least, I hope so."
Chrom nodded, "Alright then, stay close now Donny."
"Beg pardon milord?" Donnel asked, confused, "A-Are you askin me to fight? I can't fight, sir! All I'm good fer is muckin up pig stalls. "
"Oh, I apologize," Chrom said, "I saw your weapon and just assumed you could. Alright, just stay here, we'll handle this."
Donnel sighed, "I sure do wish I was half the fighter my pa was, I'd whip them pesky bandits right outta town myself, I would!"
"Then why don't you try?" Chrom suggested, "My Shepherds will give you the necessary backup."
"Milord, I told ya I ain't-"
"No man is born a warrior, Donny. Besides, some of my best soldiers started off working on farms as well. Not much separating a sickle from a sword."
"Well I-I reckon so," Donnel said, looking down at the ground, before looking to Chrom, now filled with determination, "I ain't no fighter, but I'll be darned if I don't do what it takes to protect my kin and my ma!"
Chrom smiled, "That's the spirit Donny. Alright, Kellam, Stahl, you two be sure to back up Donny here in case there are bandits still here."
"We'll take good care of him," Stahl said, patting Donnel on the back as Kellam nodded.
"Alright, everyone ready?" Chrom asked. Everyone either nodded or replied with "yessir!" as Donnel, still feeling nervous and gulped, then saluted. "U-uh, sir yes sir!" The Shepherds walked in a group as they entered the village, prepared for anything. Despite the lack of signs of life, the silence felt increasingly unnatural. Suddenly, a bandit charged Donnel, catching him off-guard as he blocked with his spear as the foe's sword cut through it like a hot knife to butter. Donnel fell to the floor as the bandit moved in to finish him, he rolled to the left and stabbed him with what was left of his weapon to his gut, causing him to stumble back. Kellam then threw his lance at him, finishing him off, "Are you alright?"
"Yup," Donnel said, panting, "much obliged. Too bad my spear's just as good as a whittled stick now..." Donnel then looked to the sword still in the bandit's hand. He walked up and pried it from him, then swung it a bit, "Ain't much difference 'tween a sword and sickle," he said, echoing Chrom's words and remembering how he would harvest wheat for some pocket change. He then returned to the group as Kellam also retrieved his spear. Then, from the opposite side, two more charged Frederick and Robin as they blocked them and engaged, separating from the group. "Looks like those brigands are still here after all," Chrom said, "Alright, everyone spread out, if we find their leader, we could run them off if we take him down!"

Donnel, Stahl and Kellam ran throughout the village, searching for the lead bandit as more of his lackeys began to attack them. Kellam and Stahl were doing their best to keep them from harming Donnel while he looked all over the village. But he wasn't looking for the leader, but rather his mother. She had to be alive still, she had to! he couldn't lose her too! Not to these fiends. While lost in thought, a bandit attempted to strike him with his lance, but Stahl managed to block their attack and pushed him back, "Go, keep looking, I'll catch up!" he yelled to his companions
"No can do!" Kellam said, busy dealing with his own enemy, "Donny, run! We'll hold these guys off!"
"But without ya, I can't take on these no-good varmints!" Donnel protested.
Kellam pushed his foe back, "Remember what Chrom said: No man is born a warrior! I was a farm boy like you once, so I know you can do it too!"
Donnel quivered, then nodded, "Alrighty, I'll give it my best shot!" He then ran off as Kellam blocked another attack. Donnel searched high and low, but there were no signs of anyone. Eventually, he made his way to the fields to the back of the village, and there she was! His mother was bound and laid on the ground. She was still conscious, thank the gods. Donnel then ran over to her as silently as he could, reaching his mother as he whispered, "Ma, you doin' okay? Them bandits didn't lay a hand on ya, did they?"
"Donny, that you?" his mother asked, relieved her child was okay before remembering what they told her, "You gots to skedaddle 'fore they put a hurtin' on ya!"
"And just up and leave ya here to these monsters?" Donnel asked, "I reckon I couldn't see my own reflection if I did that!"
She sighed, "Your sweet nature's bound to land you in a pickle one day, boy. But I'll be damned I didn’t raise ya up proper."
"Better six feet under than just thinkin' 'bout yourself," Donnel replied as he cut her ropes, freeing her, "Can ya get up?"
She nodded "Yup, reckon so, bless your heart Donny." As soon as she stood up they shared an embrace. A slow clap was heard from behind them as Donnel quickly whipped around and was face-to-face with Roddick, "I figured the little piglet would go runnin' to its mother, now I get to have a nice pig roast for my boys." Donnel's mother began to step forward as Donnel moved in front of her, a look of vitriol upon his face, "Don't ya talk about my ma like that!"
"Or what?" Roddick asked, laughing, "What're you gonna do? My memory may not be the best, but I do recall you running for your life."
Donnel started to quiver again. He was right. He did run. He left his entire village to be sold into slavery. But then he remembered something. Could he even stand a chance against this guy? He looked down to his weapon, remembering what Chrom had told him. He looked back up to face his opponent, " You ain't wrong. I took off runnin'—partly 'cause fear had me rattled, but mostly 'cause my kin needed help I couldn't rustle up alone! Now that they gots it, I reckon I can bring you down a notch!"
"Impudent whelp!" Roddick snarled, drawing his axe, "Your newly found arrogance'll be your downfall, piglet!" Roddick charged Donnel as he rolled quickly out of the way and his mother made sure to take cover. Roddick swung again as Donnel evaded once again. He then got to his feet and swung his sword vertically at Roddick, only to be blocked by his axe. Roddick was just about to swiftly move his axe and disarm Donnel, but just as he did, Donnel moved his blade back as fast as he could and stabbed Roddick in his gut, drawing blood from the wound as he staggered back. The wound wasn't lethal, but it was definitely surprising. Roddick let out a growl as Donnel looked at his wound with shock. He did that! Him! And he could barely wrestle a loose pig! With newfound determination, he charged Roddick once more, his wild swings beginning to tire him out. Eventually, Donnel found an opening as his foe's knee began to buckle, so with all his might, he let out a kick to his shin, causing him to fall over. As Roddick was about to stand once more, Donnel pointed his blade to his neck. Donnel then retracted his blade and began walking away. "Wh-Where are you going?" Roddick called after him, his voice shaking, "Ain't ya gonna avenge daddy dearest, piglet!? Huh!!? I'm not through with you, piglet!!!"
"You ain't worth the fuss, plain and simple." Donny answered with disgust, "Sides, I ain't one for bloodshed, so I'm fixin' to give ya a shot to skedaddle on outta here and not think twice 'bout lookin' back. And if I catch sight of your face 'round these parts again, I reckon I won't be as soft-hearted as I am right now, ya hear?" Those words. They were just like his! That man who ran him and his gang two days ago! No, he couldn't stand this humiliation! Not just against that hick, but now his little brat who just hours ago, ran from him like a headless chicken! Roddick's blood began to boil. He wouldn't allow this slight against his pride to go unanswered. He quickly returned to his feet and charged Donnel letting out a mighty war cry. Had he gone with a more quieter approach, maybe his attack would've succeeded. but with all that yelling, it alerted Donnel to the incoming attack, allowing him to swiftly dodge to the right as Roddick's axe was brought down where he once stood as Donnel spun around with his sword and removed his head from his shoulders. Donnel stood there, panting. The dastard that terrorized his village was no more and his father was avenged. Donnel then ran up to his mother and hugged her tightly, "Ma, didja see? I whipped that bandit real good!"
His mother smiled,  "I seen it, Donny. And I'll bet your pa's watchin' from the goddess's front porch."

The village was filled with cheer from the villagers knowing they were saved, many made small offerings to Chrom and the others, most of them turning down their polite gestures as Donnel ran up to them, a big grin on his face "We done it! we got rid a them no-good bandits good n' fer all!"
"All thanks to you and your bravery, Donny," Chrom said, "without you, I fear things would've gotten messier. But to hear you routed their leader all on your own, I dare say you've got potential to be an amazing warrior!" Donnel beamed with pride as his mother called out to him, "Donny, where's your sense of decency? Get on your knees 'fore milord and give 'im a proper thank ya, ya hear?"
"Oh, sorry ma, sorry your lordliness!" Donnel said hastily as he dropped to one knee, "Thanks ya kindly, Prince Chrom. Without ya, me and the folks round here woulda been six feet under or in a heap o' trouble, that's for sure! If there's anythin' we can do for ya, we'll certainly do our darndest."
Chrom smiled, "At ease, Donny. I wasn't ever one for formalities. And besides, you led the charge. All we did was pick off the stragglers. Hone your potential and be sure to keep this village safe, Alright? That'll be reward enough for me." And with that, The Shepherds began to depart. Donnel then looked down to the ground. If he stayed here, could he truly be able to hone his abilities? The only other warrior in this village was his father, so he'd have no one to spar with. And worse, what if he forgot all he could do!? As these questions raced through his mind, he knew what he had to do, "Wait!" Chrom halted and turned to Donnel as he ran up to him, "I-I gots a favor to ask, yer highlyness. If it ain’t too much trouble, please let me tag along! I wanna be a Shepherd too! I might not be the quickest draw, but I'm great with livestock, I am! Please sir!"
Hush up, ya fool boy!" his mother called back, "You tryin' to land yourself in a heap of trouble!?"
"But ma, I'm looking to hone my per...my puh...uhhh. Err, what he said! I reckon I gotta keep this place safe and sound! 'Fore them folks showed up, I figured all I was good fer was shovellin' dirt, but now that I see what I’m made of, I best do my part to lend a hand to others like us!"
Donnel's mother shook her head, "Ya best know ya place, Donny! Ain't no sense in you stickin' your nose in no royal army business!"
"Actually, we'd be thrilled to have him aboard," Chrom said, "And don't worry, we'll be sure to keep him out of harm's way."
"Ya really mean that!?" Donnel asked, his face beaming once again, "Well, shoot, I reckon I'm happier than a lark on a sunny day! Ya won't regret this, Your Majesticness!"
"Ya say that, Your Lordful, but..." Donnel's mother then sighed and turned to Donnel, "Well, Donny, you're of manhood now. Guess it's high time you start makin' your own choices, huh? And I reckon your pa's fightin' skills stuck' to ya like honey on a biscuit."
Donnel then ran back to his mother and hugged her again, "Aw, ma I'll be okay. You ain't gots ta worry 'bout me no more."
"Donny, I reckon I'll always fret 'bout you," His mother answered, tears forming in her eyes, "But knowin' you're under Prince Chrom's wing sure puts my mind at ease like a warm blanket on a cold night. Your pa'd be swell proud if he could see the man yer becomin'."
Oh ma, no need to cry now," Donnel said, "I'll be back home safe n' sound, come hell or high water."
"Don't ya go worryin about me now,"boy, His mother answered, wiping the tears away, "I'm just so proud to know of all the good my boy's doin for the kingdom. Well, off with ya now, boy! Glory's a-callin' for ya!"
"I ain't gonna fight for no glory," Donnel said, releasing his embrace, "Imma fightin' for you, ma! For everyone here! But if I do stumble upon some glory, you can bet yer boots I'll haul it back home with me!" And with that, Donnel ran to join the Shepherds as they returned to their original mission as he was mingling with his new comrades. As his mother sighed, "Just come home safe now, Donny, ya hear?"

Chapter Text

"So Ferox is willing to support us then?" Emmeryn asked Chrom as they sat in the castle's war room, along with Frederick and Lissa, the ladder not really paying attention to all of the boring political talk.
Chrom nodded, standing "I still don't know how I managed it, but man do those Feroxi know how to put up a fight. With them by our side, Plegia doesn't stand a chance!"
Emmeryn giggled, "I appreciate your enthusiasm, little brother but remember: We do not want to start a war with Plegia, especially considering how the last one went. Besides if we do declare war, regardless of which side is the victor, that'll just be giving them what they want."
"O-Of course," Chrom said, returning to his seat, "Forgive me, Emm. I got a bit carried away there."
"Though I will agree we're more of a force to be reckon with. Hopefully now he won't be as hasty to provoke Ylisse as he has been for some time now."
"Ugggggggh, this is sooooo boring!" Lissa complained, "Why do I have to be here when Robin doesn't!?"
"I thought you'd have liked to be treated like an adult," Chrom teased, "And this is what adults do."
"Yeah, all the boring ones," Lissa retorted, resting her head on her hand.
"In any case, we're almost finished here, Lissa," Emmeryn told her, "You are free to go now, Lissa. Frederick, you as well."
Frederick nodded, "While I appreciate your offer, I think I will continue to stay to make sure milord understands everything we discuss here."
"You say that like I'm the Exalt," Chrom muttered under his breath.
Lissa stood up, "Finally! I hope Maribelle is free now. I could really go for some of her tea right about now." As Lissa headed for the door, it suddenly flew open as Phila entered, panting, "Y-Your Grace! I...forgive my intrusion, but I bring terrible news!"
"You need not apologize, Philla," Emmeryn said, "You are one of my most trusted allies. Also, I know you're not the type to just barge in here unless it was important."
"Th-thank you, Your Grace," Phila said, then composed herself, "I bring terrible news! Plegian soldiers were spotted at the southwest border! My knights and I tried to move in to prevent any violence, but their archers kept us away. They not only razed an entire village, but have kidnapped the daughter of the Duke of Themis!"
Lissa's eyes widened, "Maribelle's in trouble? We gotta help her!!"
"And we will, Lissa," Chrom reassured her.
"Worse still, the mad king claims she is the one who invaded his borders and demands we repay him for this 'insult'!"
Chrom's eyes narrowed, "And we're supposed to believe a dastard like him!?"
"Peace, Chrom," Emmeryn said, "We must keep our wits about us, now is not the time to do anything rash."
"Rash!? I say we should just put an arrow in his heart, burn his body at the stake, and bury his ashes in dung! The mad king won't stop until he drags this whole continent to hell with him!!" Chrom's rage began to subside as he looked up at Emmeryn, her eyes showing the fear the rest of her body wouldn't, "Emm, I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-."
"I understand how you feel, Chrom," Emmeryn reassured him, "But I'd rather see this end without further bloodshed."
"Forgive me, Your Grace," Phila spoke up, "But I must agree with the prince. We've been shown time and time again that he won't act in good faith! We cannot allow him to further terrorize our people!"
Emmeryn shook her head, "I will not allow the sins of my father to be repeated. If it will prevent further conflict, I shall offer parley with the king."
"Y-Your Grace, please reconsider!" Phila said, not believing what she was hearing, "We've done nothing for him to warrant his slaughter of innocents! Surely, there is another way!"
"If there is another way, it would be too late before we find it," Emmeryn said, "I will not leave Maribelle to die nor will I let another war tear this continent apart. I know this is not what either of you want to hear, but it is my final decision."
Phila looked down in shame, "Forgive me, Your Grace. I spoke out of turn. At least allow me and my pegasus knights to accompany you. I will not allow that dastard to turn you into a sheath."
"I'm going too," Chrom spoke up, "Someone's gotta protect you from your good intentions."
"Me three!" Lissa chimed in, "I gotta be there for Mari!"
Emmeryn smiled, "Thank you all. Your strength shall be as mine. Now, we must leave immediately. Round up anyone who is willing and prepare to march to the southwest border."

Robin's organization of the Shepherd's supplies was interrupted by the sound of the garrison's door swinging wide open. She walked to see who it could be, and saw Chrom standing there with Lissa and Frederick behind him. But something about Chrom was...off. She couldn't quite place what it was, but he seemed...angry. The pure vitriol displayed by his mere presence was terrifying, despite his attempts to fool her otherwise. It was like this person was a complete and total stranger to her. "Hey Chrom, what's going on?" she asked, "we got another mission?"
"We've got trouble," Chrom said, turning his attention to the rest of the Shepherds as he explained the situation.
"Those damn Plegian dastards!" Sully said, "I say we just kill them and be done with it already! He has it coming if you ask me!"
"I know, Sully. I feel the same way," Chrom answered, "but Emm believes it's best we try to settle this peacefully."
"And she asked a militia group to join her for this?" Stahl asked, confused, "Cuz at first, I thought we were actually gonna go to war for a second."
"We're going in order to ensure Her Grace's safety," Frederick explained, "Our main concerns are of her safety and the Duke's daughter."
"I know we just got back from Ferox, but this here is of extreme importance. I'm hoping for the sake of my sister that all of this can be resolved peacefully, but I have my doubts. I'll need you all at the ready for this. Can I count on you all?" The Shepherds, either nodding their head or verbally replying, agreed. "Ooh, are you guys going on a mission?"
Chrom turned around to see a boy about Donnel's age, dawning a wizard's hat and robe with light brown hair and a face that would make a baby jealous, "Ricken? When did you get here?" Chrom asked before shaking his head, "I can't allow you to accompany us on this mission."
Ricken frowned, "Aw come on, why not!?"
"You're still young and this mission will be a dangerous one. Not something for a kid to accompany us to."
"Kid!?" Ricken echoed with disgust, "I'm fifteen! I'm practically a man now! Plus, you've seen my skill with magic, you know I can take care of myself!"
"This isn't about you being able to take care of yourself. You're still inexperienced, heck you haven't even seen real combat yet!"
Ricken rolled his eyes, then pointed to Donnel, "What about him!?"
"I hit that sweet sixteen 'bout three moons back," Donnel answered as Ricken glared at him with annoyance.
"And besides, I'd feel a lot safer knowing you're here defending the capitol with your magic," Chrom said, patting him on the soldiers, "We're heading off now, be good Ricken, okay?" And with that, he and the others departed the garrison, leaving Ricken there to simmer in his humiliation, "'Be good', huh? How old does he think I am!?" Well, I'll show him just how good I can be!"

The border between Ylisse and Plegia was quite noticeable, Ylisse's lush foliage beginning to give way to wilting away the closer to the deserts of Plegia. The hill looked quite steep with only few places to be able to move up on foot, which would put the Ylisseans at a disadvantage save for the pegasus knights and Sumia. There were a few archers, but not so many that it could overwhelm them. Robin took all of this into account as she surveyed her surroundings, just in case something did happen. Her attention was then drawn to a rock formation where a tall, pale man stood, dull red hair, beard, gold crown, and red eyes filled with pure malice being the only highlights of his face. What he wore didn't seem fit for royalty, at least from what she'd seen from Ylisse and Ferox. Had she no knowledge of who he was, she would've assumed he was some sort of impersonator, but from what Chrom told her during their march, it was practically spot on. Mad King Gangrel looked upon the approaching force with a wicked grin plastered upon his face as he began to speak, "Well well well, is that the Exalt Emmeryn I spy? Why, she's so radiant I must shield my eyes, lest I'm blinded by her light." He then dramatically covered his face as if staring at the sun as he laughed maniacally.
Emmeryn then stepped forward, far enough none of the warriors could try something rash without her knowledge, but close enough she could be protected in case he tried anything, "King Gangrel, I wish to discuss the truth of this incident."
"The truth you say?" A sly feminine voice asked from behind Gangrel, her tan in stark contrast to his skin. She had white hair and strange markings upon her face, her black dress making her look more like royalty than the king, "Or are you here to simply twist the truth?"
"I don't believe we've met before," Emmeryn said with confusion, "May I ask to know your name?"
The woman smiled, looking as if she was debating even humoring her, "You may call me Aversa."
"Very well, Aversa. What of Maribelle? Is she hurt?"
"Who?" Gangrel asked before realizing, "Ah, you mean the little birdie I caught today. Yes, yes she is unharmed. Well, for now at least." As he said this, one of his soldiers stepped forward, holding on to Maribelle's bound arms as she was marched forward, covered in blood and dirt which sullied her usual noble appearance, "Unhand me this instant, you gutter-born troglodyte!" she ordered her captor, "Have you Plegians no manners about you!?"
"Mari! Are you okay!?"
Maribelle looked up to see Lissa on the other side as she waved to her, "Lissa? Is that you darling? These brutes haven't attempted to harm you, have they!? I'll gut every last one of them if they even so much as touch a single strand of your hair!" Lissa smiled nervously as Gangrel rolled his eyes, "Right, let's get to it then. This little birdie over 'accidentally' flew on over to our borders without so much a word to either me or the men on guard. Worse still, she began pecking at us! And all we wanted to do was help the poor widdle wost canary fly home to mommy! Naturally, such a nasty little thing needed to be caged! Surely, you can understand that?"
"LIES!" Maribelle shouted, "That wicked man spouts nothing but slander! Does Plegia have no knowledge of what the word 'truth' means!?"
Aversa chuckled, "See? No manners about her whatsoever." Maribelle then turned to look at Aversa. If looks could kill, she would've died on the spot the moment Maribelle's gaze was upon her. Aversa simply turned to face her and smirked at her helplessness.
"Now, as I was saying before I was so RUDELY interrupted," Gangrel continued, "I don't know how you Ylisseans do things in your backwater nation, but around here such actions have weighty consequences! Now, I must say it'll take a great deal of your so-called 'good faith' to repair the damages after your loose parakeet shat all over our pristine marble floors."
"I've done nothing wrong!" Maribelle rebutted, "If anyone needs to show their 'good faith' it's them! They crossed our borders and attacked a village! Their plundering knew no bounds and when I tried to intervene, they dragged me across the border! Let the destruction they caused serve as proof of their misdeeds!"
"That would only prove Ylisse has a bandit problem," Aversa countered.
Gangrel nodded, "Ah yes, I've heard you've been having quite some difficulty with those. You should really do better to reign in such delinquents. But alas, I shall weep many a salty tear for the Yilssean casualties tonight!" He then began to make a mock crying gesture as he began to laugh again.
"You black-hearted devil!" Chrom barked, joining his sister's side, "I dare you to say such things closer to my blade!"
Gangrel then put his hands out as if Chrom's threat actually scared him, "Your Excellency, please get a hold of your rabid mutt! I fear he may break something within my humble abode as well!"
Chrom growled again as Emmeryn blocked him from doing something stupid, "Very well then, Gangrel. What should you propose we give you in exchange for Maribelle's safety?"
Gangrel began scratching his chin "Hmmm. Why I think I should request something of equal value as you seem quite fond of this widdle baby budgie. Oh, I think I know exactly what would be fair in this situation: The Fire Emblem, of course!"
Emmeryn's eyes widened, "You ask for Ylisse's national treasure? But why?"
"Quite simple really," Gangrel explained, "I've heard the legends! The Fire Emblem is the key to having one's own wishes realized, after all. Do you even read my birthday wish lists!? I'm sure to send one to Ylisstol every year just a week before! And every year, I get no response! It's kinda rude, you know? You could at least just write back 'no'."
"The Fire Emblem is meant to only be used in times of crisis by someone of noble heart," Emmeryn responded, "I cannot in good faith surrender it to you, is there not something else we can offer?"
"No?" Gangrel asked, seemingly upset by this, "NO!? I can assure you, Your Excellency, that there is nothing you could offer which would be of equal value to me! In fact, why should I even bother with this parley!? I'm well within my rights to euthanize this unpleasant pheasant and be home in time for tea. Besides, you remember the atrocities of twenty years ago, don't you? When dear old dad declared war upon us? Labelled us 'heathens'!? I can assure you, I remember as if it was yesterday. Countless Plegians slaughtered and for what? A pointless crusade!? What a load of horseshit!! My wish is quite noble, O’ Exalted One. In fact, it is the wish of every man, woman and child who remembers your sins: A grisly end for every last Ylissean!!!"
"I've never forgotten what my father has done to your people and for that, you have my apologies. Our realm is a peaceful one now, I can assure you. We will never allow what happened then to occur ever again."
"Bah, yours is now a land of hypocrisy!" Gangrel spat, "Now give me the fucking Emblem!"
"No Your Grace, you mustn't!" Maribelle shouted, "I won't be a bargaining chip for this man's wicked desires! I'd rather die!"
"Maribelle, please-," Emmeryn started but Gangrel interrupted her "MaRiBeLlE pLeAsE!" he said mockingly, "Ugh, taaaaalk-talk-talk-talky-talk! Is that all you Ylisseans are good for nowadays? Meaningless dribble?? Well I say it's time to speak louder than words, miss perfect! I shall have what I want even if I have to pry it from your cold, dead hands!" He snapped his fingers as three Plegian soldiers began approaching Emmeryn. Chrom's eyes then flashed as he charged the one in the center. "Chrom, no!" But it was too late. Chrom had slashed the soldier down before pointing his blade towards Gangrel, "Not another step or you'll all suffer the same fate!"
"Ooh, that looks like a declaration of war!" Gangrel said like a giddy child who noticed his favorite sweets at the shops, "What do you think, Aversa? Is it? Is it!?"
Aversa’s smirk evolved into a wicked grin, "I do believe so, my king."
Gangrel began laughing like a hyena, "Oh, this is too perfect! I got my second most wanted gift: A big messy, bloody war that'll surely drain you Ylisseans dry! Alright men, here's the deal. Kill the Exalt, kill the prince. KILL. THEM. ALL! I wanna see this hill painted blood-red next I see it!!" Gangrel then retreated up the hill, skipping like a school girl as his warriors began their approach. "Pegasus knights, protect the Exalt!" Robin ordered, "Chrom, Lissa, Frederick, Lon'qu, Donnel, Sully and Virion: Give the rest of us cover to rescue Maribelle!"

Aversa began approaching the still struggling Maribelle, who upon seeing her struggled even harder to escape, "Get back you wretched old hag! You so much as touch me, I'll see to your execution personally!"
"Oh, you are quite amusing," Aversa said, a wicked smile still upon her face, "Though are you truly worth starting a war over? Personally, I don't think so."
Maribelle stopped struggling as her words began to sink in, "N-No. Y-You're the ones who provoked us!"
Aversa simply laughed at her statement, "The victors are the ones who tell the tale, and unfortunately for you all, history won't see it the way you do. Though I will personally make sure your name will be remembered. Remembered as the one who doomed House Ylisse!"
Maribelle looked down in despair as Aversa began charging a blast of dark magic, "N-No...Oh Lissa...please forgive me..." She shut her eyes, embracing her inevitable demise at this wicked witch's hands. Suddenly, a blast of wind magic hit the soldier holding her in place, surprising both her and her would-be killer! Maribelle then took the opportunity to kick Aversa as hard as she could in the stomach, causing her to lose concentration as her dark magic faded, "Run Maribelle! You're free now!"
She looked up to see Ricken there, Wind Tome in hand, "Ricken!? What in the name of the gods are you doing here!?"
"Talk later, right now we gotta go, come on!" Maribelle nodded and ran toward him as Aversa managed to return to her feet, laughing, "Who's this? Your little boyfriend? Well isn't he precious?"
"Don't you talk down to me, witch!" Ricken yelled, letting out a blast of wind knocking her back down as took Maribelle's hand and ran. "Damn brat! I should-" Aversa then recomposed herself as she returned to her feet once more," No...Our soldiers have them outnumbered. They'll be dead before those pathetic Ylisseans can even so much as embrace them." She chuckled sinisterly as she snapped her fingers. A black armored pegasus appeared beside her as she mounted it and flew away.

Robin and her group ran to where Maribelle was being captured, expecting to be the ones to free her. However, Robin saw as she was being led by the young boy from earlier, "Oh, uh, Ricken right?"
Ricken and Maribelle came to a stop, "Y...Yes ma'am, that's me. I know I disobeyed a direct order from Chrom, but please let me fight with you! I can't stand just sitting on the sidelines doing nothing while everyone else is doing their part!"
"Alright," Robin said, "Just try to keep yourself out of trouble. If the situation gets tough, I want you to find some back up, understand?" Ricken nodded. "Alright, everyone: Protect Maribelle! We'll have to take out all the Plegian soldiers to prevent them from crossing the border, but Maribelle's safety is top priority!"
"No way I'm getting left out of this tussle because some commoner told me to!" Maribelle shouted, "And besides, you'll definitely need someone to patch you up after this!" Robin nodded as two Plegian soldiers rushed them from behind, but were completely outmatched by Stahl and Vaike, who quickly overpowered and finished them as Miriel shot a fireball at an oncoming wyvern rider, knocking him from his saddle. "Permission for your passing beyond this point is denied!" she shouted to her downed foe.
"There'll be more wyvern riders upon us soon," Roibn said, "Gods I wish I took Virion instead!"
"Wind magic is also extremely effective against fliers!" Ricken said, "And lucky for you, I'm a master of it!"
Robin nodded, "Then you Miriel and Sumia will keep us safe from oncoming wyvern attacks while Vaike, Stahl, Kellam and I will handle any ground units and archers!"

Chrom struck down his tenth soldier as Frederick threw his spear and landed a direct hit at a wyvern rider about to descend upon Chrom, "Come on Frederick, I had him!"
Frederick shook his head, "You quite clearly did not 'have it', milord."
"Was that humor Frederick?" Chrom asked with a smile.
"Perhaps, milord," Frederick answered as Sully and Virion rode up to another axe-wielding soldier en route to Frederick, hoping to bring him down as Sully attempted to strike him, only for him to use his axe to disarm her and attempted to strike her down, but was taken down by a shot from Virion's bow, "That delinquent should know never to raise his weapon to a fair maiden such as yourself, dearest Sully."
"Gods, do you ever shut up!?" Sully asked as she retrieved her weapon, "Though I guess I do owe ya for that save, Ruffles. Thanks...I guess."
"You are most welcome, my dear. Perhaps you could thank me further by meeting me for dinner?"
Sully rolled her eyes as she struck down another soldier as she struck down a soldier charging an oblivious Virion from behind, "Don't push it, Ruffles."
"O-Of course, milady," Virion said, chuckling to himself, "And I must thank you for your elegant save, milady."

Lon'qu then struck down soldier after soldier, knowing he couldn't keep this up for as long as was. Twelve. That was his count. Twelve soldiers slain by his blade as another charged him and slashed his back causing him to stagger, before turning around and striking down his attacker. Lon'qu then fell to one knee, using his sword to prop himself up. Thirteen. A new record for the amount of his usual fights before he had to rest. "Lon'qu! Y-You're hurt!"
Lon'qu looked up to see Lissa running toward him, "Get back! I'll be fine!"
"Fine!? Lon'qu, you can barely stand! I won't let you just sacrifice yourself like this! Please, let me help you!"
Lon'qu stiffened. He hated to admit it to himself, but she was right. He couldn't keep this up. He sighed, begrudgingly responding, "Fine, just don't linger for too long..." Lissa walked over and began using her healing magic. Lon'qu always being healed by magical means. It always felt weirdly uncomfortable to him, like feeling the tag on the back of your shirt on your neck. But if it kept Lissa from shouting at him, he would be willing to placate her. "There, all better now," Lissa said with a pure smile on her face, "Now go and kill!"
Lon'qu nodded, suppressing a smile as he rejoned the fray.

As Chrom managed to take down the last of the remaining soldiers, he saw a much larger wyvern than the ones used by the usual soldiers. Chrom guessed that this wyvern belonged to their general. And he was flying in the direction of...Robin! "Everyone, stick to the plan, I'll be back!"
"Wait, milord!" Frederick called out as Chrom ran off. He planned to intercept this general before he could even reach Robin. As he kept running, he then saw Robin and her army taking down the last of their portion of the soldiers as Robin looked up to see Chrom running toward her! "Chrom? What're you doing!?" Chrom didn't respond as he turned and charged towards the general and jumped up and grabbed the wyvern's neck as the general looked down at him, neat red hair and brown eyes meeting Chrom with confusion but then drawing upon his axe, "My name is Captain Orton of the Plegian Wyvern Brigade. I shall not ask for your name, but only for your life!" He drew his axe and attempted to strike Chrom's hand as he quickly moved his hand, causing the weapon to pierce his mount's neck. The beast screeched with pain as it began moving wildly as Chrom's grip loosened and he found himself freefalling as Orton also was knocked off. Just as Chrom expected to meet his grisly end as a puddle of red mush, a gust of wind caught him just before his descent completed, allowing him to return safely to the ground. He then turned to see that his opponent was not as lucky as he was, lying dead in a pool of his own blood. "Captain! Are you alright!?" Chrom then turned to Ricken as he ran over to him.
'Ricken!? I thought I told you to stay put!"
"If it wasn't for me, you'd have ended up like that guy over there!" Ricken retorted, "I think I've more than proved myself now!" Ricken then covered his mouth, but the words had already escaped his lips. He readied himself for the inevitable punishment. But instead Chrom just sighed, "You disobeyed a direct order from me, there will be consequences for this."
"Y-Yes milord."
"However, it seems I've greatly underestimated you, and for that I apologize. I suppose from this day forward, you're an offical Shepherd."
"You mean it?" Ricken asked with a big smile on his face, "Th-Thank you!"
"Though you will be cleaning horse stalls once we get back to Ylisstol."
Ricken nodded, "I'll make 'em shine like they never shone before, Chrom!" and he then ran off as Robin walked up to him, a sour expression on her face. "Uhh, hey Robin, what's up?"
"'What's up?'!?" Robin shouted, "You nearly fell to your own death and that's all you have to say for yourself!?"
Chrom was confused by her sudden outburst, "I just thought-"
"Well that's new for you, isn't it!?" Robin interrupted him, "What's the point of a plan that ensures little to no casualties if you're just gonna do what you want!? There's a reason we're born with brains in our head and not rocks!"
"I was just trying to help!" Chrom said defensively, "That guy could've killed you and everyone else with you!"
"I had it all under control! Despite what you may think of me, I'm not made of glass and I can take care of myself! Besides, my own death would not be as important as yours! If you die, this entire army falls apart, don't you see that!? You need to be more care-!"
"'More careful'," Chrom retorted, cutting her off, "Gods you sound like Frederick! We've known each other for about a month now and it's as if you don't know a damn thing about me! If someone is in trouble, Robin, I have to help them! It's who I am and who I always will be! I refuse to be idle if I know there is something I can do to help!"
"And how is starting a war 'helping us'!?" Robin asked, causing Chrom to pause. She then got closer to him and pressed her index finger into his chest, "The problem with you is that you don't stop to think about the consequences of your actions! I don't have a problem with your chivalrous nature, but your damned thickheadedness! I pray to the gods you haven't doomed us all!" She then walked off. Chrom was just about to try and get the last word but stopped himself. She was right. He really did screw up this time. What had he done?

As Robin was walking, a strange thought occurred to her: Why was she so angry? Yes, she was mostly concerned for Chrom's safety as his friend but...why was it so...explosive? Despite her lack of memories, it felt like it was definitely the first time she had ever been so angry. The more she tried to unravel it, the more it felt convoluted. As she was still thinking about it, she was then brought back to reality as she heard Lissa calling out, "Maribelle! Are you okay? They didn't hurt you, did they!?" Robin then saw as Lissa trapped her friend in a bear hug.
"N-Nothing I couldn't...return twofold, darling," Maribelle answered, "Lissa...You're crushing my lungs dear."
Lissa then quickly released her as she took a deep breath, "Sorry Mari, I'm just really glad you're ok!"
"As am I," Robin chimed, "I know that you're not too fond of me, but regardless, I'm relieved you're safe."
"Who-?" Maribelle then turned to see Robin, her face slightly dimming. Not from disappointment from what Robin could tell. It was more like guilt, "W-Well it's not a matter of fondness, really. I'm simply very protective of my dear Lissa, is all." Maribelle then scoffed, "Gods, why am I trying to justify myself to a lowly commoner!? ...Well, you did save my life, and for that you have my sincerest gratitude. And...and...I...I apologize for being rude to you back then...There I said it!"
"It was no trouble at all," Robin said with a smile on her face, "We may not be on the greatest of terms now, but I do wish to get to know you better. Perhaps we can become friends?" She then outstretched her hand for a handshake.
"Well, you have earned Lissa's trust and admiration, so perhaps...I can see us becoming acquaintances, of sorts," Maribelle answered, accepting the gesture.

"Forgive me Emm," Chrom said, a look of shame upon his face, "I acted rashly and now I fear I've doomed us all."
Emmeryn shook her head, "I fear that this war was inevitable either way and besides, you were only trying to protect me. If anything, Gangrel is to blame for all of this senseless violence."
"At any rate, I suggest we make haste for the capitol," Frederick said, "We'll need to regroup and discuss our strategy there. I fear the Mad King has already mobilized his forces."
"Quite right, Frederick," Emmeryn said, "The safety of our people is our top priority, after all. Phila and I will head to the castle now, I've much to discuss upon my return home." Emmeryn then got upon Phila's steed and they flew off as Chrom stared solemnly after them. "Frederick?"
"Yes, milord?"
"Do you think I will turn out like him one day?"
"King Gangrel?"
Chrom shook his head as Frederick understood what he meant, "I shall be honest with you, milord. When I was first assigned as your guardian, I had my...fears that would be the case. But over the years as our relationship continued to grow, I can certainly say with a thousand percent honesty, you are nothing like the tyrant he was."
Chrom smiled softly, "Thanks Frederick, sometimes you're not so bad when you want to be."
"I certainly do my best, milord."

The Shepherds' march was stopped for everyone to take a break on a nice, open field. Some of the group talked amongst themselves. Others were sparring, Donnel and Ricken being the most notable as the more they sparred, the faster they seemed to become friends, despite Ricken's earlier outburst. Robin found herself lying under a tree, its shade a nice reprieve from the glaring sun. As she was lying there, hands behind her head, she continued to wonder what caused her to go off on Chrom earlier. Not just because she was still trying to figure out why she exploded at him like that earlier, but also because she was feeling guilty about it. Gods she hoped she hadn't ruined her friendship with him. "Hey." Robin looked up to see Chrom standing next to her, smiling, "You don't mind if I sit here, do you?"
"Oh, no. Not at all," Robin answered as Chrom sat down beside her. There was an awkward silence between them that wasn't broken for quite some time, perhaps an hour? Chrom then spoke up, "Listen, I'm sorry about...ya know, earlier. I just thought you needed some help, is all. I wasn't trying to get myself killed."
"It's all fine, water under the bridge," Robin reassured him, "If anything, I should apologize for my sudden outburst like that. I guess, maybe I was just scared the greatest friend I've ever made would wind up dead, I guess."
Chrom sighed with relief, "And I guess I was also scared of losing our friendship too, after that. So, friends again?" Chrom outstretched his hand for a handshake.
"We never stopped being friends in the first place," Robin replied, returning his handshake. Something about this handshake felt different than when she shook Maribelle's. Not just physically, but something else she couldn't really describe. After the gesture, the two just returned to their original position and just talked. Not about anything in particular, but just to talk to each other. They continued talking for what felt like hours until Frederick approached them, "Milord, there you are! Vaike has requested to spar with you and unfortunately, he is quite bothersome when he is like this so I've come to fetch you so he'll finally shut up." He then grabbed Chrom by the cape and began dragging him along, "H-Hey Frederick, wait!" but Frederick would not listen, "S-Sorry about this, Robin! Another time, perhaps!?"
Robin giggled, "Looking forward to it!" She sighed, Chrom thought she was still angry with him? How could she even stay mad at him? He was kind and funny and charming and his silly face was just so- Robin stopped her thoughts just then. W-Why was she thinking like this? How could she even think these things!? As Robin continued to begin internally freaking out as her face started to turn beet-red. She then came to a horrifying conclusion. No. No no no no nononono! Oh gods, why!? Th-This isn't happening, it can't! But in fact, it was. As Robin's internal freakout began to boil over, she had finally figured out why she exploded like that. And of all the things it could've been, this was the worst possible outcome for her. "Oh gods, Robin," she said aloud to no one in particular, "You're in love with the crown prince!" She couldn't believe what she was saying! There was no way that could be true! She'd only known him for barely even a month! Besides, she was his tactician! She couldn't possibly date any of the Shepherds, least of all her general! She needed to remain impartial for the sake of the others and not just his! And the logistics behind it? Unfathomable! He was a prince for crying out loud! And she was just some weirdo he found passed out in the middle of the road! There's no way he could ever possibly reciprocate her feelings! That sort of thing only came from children's stories! She'd be ridiculed for the rest of her days if she ever confessed how she felt to him, she knew that! She took out her Thunder Tome and began hitting it against her head repeatedly. Why? Why him!? It should've been someone else! Literally, anyone else would probably make this situation somewhat better! Anyone but Chrom! Ok, calm down, all she had to do was suppress these newfound emotions and everything would be fine. How hard could that be?

It turns out her plan was not as easy as she initially thought. During the entire march back to Ylisstol, she continued talking with Chrom, where whenever he would joke, Robin had to make sure she didn't laugh too much for too long all the while trying to find the most adequate way to walk beside him. Too close and she risked turning into a tomato, but too far would allow Chrom to pick up something was wrong with her. She figured once she returned to Ylisstol, she'd go straight to the garrison and take note of their inventory. That'll take her mind off of Chrom. Well, it worked...to an extent. Any time she wasn't counting broken equipment or counting up new supplies, her mind would drift back to her prince charming. Oh gods, nothing is working! Every time she found herself with just the teensiest bit of downtime, he was all she could think about. I can't just work herself to exhaustion, the Shepherds need me! Chrom needed me! N-Not in that way of course, but as a trusted ally and friend. Besides, Chrom'd probably settle down with some other floozy anyway...Gods, I shouldn't think like that, but I guess it couldn't be helped. Especially with his build. Tall, and muscular...like damn, you could grind meat on those. I wonder if- "Hey, Robin!" Robin let out a shout as she quickly saw Chrom standing in the door, her motion so quick, she tripped and fell. Gods, when the hell did he get here? Does he have some sort of power that allows him to manifest the moment she even has a single thought of him!? Gods, Robin! Get yourself together!! Just then, Chrom burst out laughing as Robin quickly returned to her feet, her face redder than Miriel's hair, "Y-Yeah, keep laughing! I'm glad it was so funny!" she yelled, dusting herself off.
Hahah...ha s-sorry Robin," Chrom replied, wiping a tear from his eye, "I didn't mean to startle you, heh, though you-you've should've seen your face! It was priceless!"
His laughter began again as Robin felt a portion of her heart crack. His laugh may not have been because she had accidentally confessed. But still, it felt like she had as she sighed, "Is there something I can help you with?"
Chrom's laughter finally died down, "Y-Yeah, Emm's requested your presence in the war room to discuss strategy with us."
"Us!? A-As in you'll be there, too!?"
"Uhh, yeah," Chrom answered, raising an eyebrow, "Unless you're too busy, I can-"
"No! uh, no, it's fine, I-I'll come with! It's no problem at all!!"
Chrom smiled, "Alright, thanks Robin! Come on, they're waiting for us!" Robin then followed Chrom as he led the way as she felt herself internally panicking. Oh gods, why her?

Worst. Day. Ever. That was all Robin could think as she walked through the halls of the castle, searching for the library. The war room meeting was a total nightmare. Sure, she was able to offer extremely valuable insight, but she was caught off-guard more than once as her thoughts began to roam. It didn't help that she was sat next to Chrom the whole time. Those three hours felt like an eternity as she constantly fought with herself to stop thinking about Chrom. After the meeting, she figured that the best way to take her mind off of things was to settle down with a nice, long and boring history book. She could've asked Emmeryn, Lissa or heck, even Frederick! But seeing as they were extremely close to Chrom, her paranoia got the better of her, thinking they would inform Chrom about her weird behavior as of late. So, she asked Sumia, who admitted she had gotten lost in the castle an embarrassing amount of times and was often found by Frederick roaming the halls like a toddler in a hotel, but she did a rough estimation of where she thought the library was, which was good enough for her. As she opened the door and walked out into what appeared to be the castle's backyard, she saw Chrom standing out there, back towards her as he was illuminated by the pale moonlight. What is he doing there? Can't I go just five minutes without accidentally running into him!? I mean, what was he doing out here? All alone... Maybe I- No Robin! Don't! In order to beat this crush, you must stay resolute! Ignore him! You are going to the library! You. Are. Going. To. The-Robin then saw her legs moving on their own, approaching Chrom. Oh gods, I'm gonna regret this..."Chrom, what're you doing here?"
"Hmm?" Chrom looked down from the starry sky to meet her gaze, "Oh, Robin, hey! Just...Dueling with some unpleasant thoughts, is all."
"Do you wanna...talk about it?"
Chrom looked back to the sky before returning his gaze to Robin, "Alright, I might as well. Besides, I figured I'd need to tell you about this eventually." He then sat down on a bench overlooking the lush greenery. Even in the darkness, it seemed so beautiful as Robin sat beside him. Chrom then sighed, "Not everything Gangrel said was a lie, Robin. My father, the Exalt before Emm, he...he waged war on Plegia. For what reason, I'll never know. But what I do know is that it was a brutal campaign. Plegia has every right to remember their suffering at the hands of that monster, but the war wasn't kind to our people either. If you were of able body, regardless of your standing, you were sent to fight in a war with no cause. Farmers armed with nothing but pitchforks were forced against trained soldiers with swords and axes. The drafting was a death sentence for them. My father also partook in the bloodshed. He rarely ever saw the need to return home at all. When we did...We were the targets of his unyielding rage. He drove my mother to an early grave. He would often yell at Emm whenever she would make even the slightest of mistakes. I remember when I was only seven years old. That drunken bastard threw his blade at me as I was running by. It took three healers to keep me from bleeding out. One of them being Emmeryn."
Robin was horrified, "How could anyone do that to a child!?"
Chrom just shook his head, "I will never know, nor do I care. Soon after that incident, he was found dead in his room. Some say he died of some plague while more conspiratorial members of the House claimed he was poisoned, I'm just glad it even happened at all. Then just one day later, Emmeryn, a ten year old child, was in charge of our nation on the day of her birth. She was left with quite the legacy, with not only Plegia's but our own people's rage, she was a target from all sides of the conflict. Many would hurl vicious insults at her-and stones. She still bears the scar of one on the back of her shoulder. But she never condemned them. She never let them see her pain, but Lissa and I knew. We knew of her suffering. And it infuriated me."
"I mean, who wouldn't be, given the circumstances?"
"I won't claim to know how she does it, but despite what they did to her, despite all of the pain both physical and mental she endured, despite it all, she still reached out. She still helped them. Every last soldier in Plegia was returned to their homestead in just three years. And when the people finally 'forgave' her? She never held it against them. To me, if 'peace' itself had a physical form, it'd be her. I remember after the day when I first saw the scar. I remembered how I wanted to find the dastard who did it and make an example of him. But Emm stopped me. She told me he could have been grieving for a son, a brother, or even a friend that was forced to fight in a war nobody else agreed to. They were scared she would be the tyrant our father was, but she knew the murder of that man would have made things much worse. Not much frightens me, Robin. Aside from the occasional spider, there is only one thing I truly fear: If there comes a time I am to be the next Exalt. I fear I will become what my father was and plunge all of Archanea into chaos and ruin, and reigniting the war my sister attempted to end eight years ago...And I feel that today has only solidified my fears."
"Chrom, you are one of the kindest people I've met," Robin told him, "I may not know what kind of man your father was, but from what you've told me, he doesn't sound a thing like you! Sure, you can be a little impulsive and thickheaded, but you've got a big heart. Your willingness to always reach out to those in need is a far cry from what I believe your father would do were he still here."
Chrom smiled, "Thank you Robin, I needed that."

"Well put indeed, madam." Robin and Chrom immediately got off of the bench and drew upon their weapons, 'Who's there!?" Chrom called out, "Show yourself!" The intruder did as Chrom had asked and emerged from behind a tree, "Marth!?"
"Good evening to you," Marth simply replied.
"How did you get in here?" Chrom asked, sheathing his sword.
"The cleft in the castle wall, behind the maple grove."
Chrom was shocked, "How did you know about that!?"
"You know the place, Chrom?" Robin asked.
Chrom nodded, "I bashed it in a training exercise with the Shepherds. I thought I concealed it well enough. Though I guess not..."
"Your secret is safe with me, Your Highness," Marth said, "I am simply here to warn both you."
"Warn us? What for?"
"What if...what if I told you I've seen the future?" Marth asked, "A future where the Exalt is killed tonight?"
"I'd say you're absurd," Chrom answered, "Emmeryn is guarded at all times!"
"Her guards are dead," Marth explained, "The ones you see now only masquerade as your allies. They've allowed several bandits into the castle during your time away and now, tonight is when they plan to strike! I guess I shouldn't have expected you to take my word for it, so allow me to show you." Marth then drew upon her weapon and pointed it to Chrom as he reached for his own, "I'm about to save your life...from him." She then threw her weapon into the sky and jumped after it after a would-be assassin attempted to strike her down. She then caught her blade in midair and came crashing back down to the ground, slashing the bandit in the back, "Is this evidence sufficient?"
"Y-Yeah," Chrom stuttered, impressed by her performance as he caught a glimpse of another assassin in the tree behind him, "Marth, look out!" Marth turned to see another bandit emerge and attempt to strike her down. He attempted to block, but she tripped on the blade of her attacker's comrade, causing her to lose balance the sword missing her face by a hair, his mask, however, wasn't as lucky as the right half fell to the ground while the other remained upon his face as his hair came undone, now much longer than it had originally appeared as Chrom returned the favor he had provided him as he ran forth cut down Marth's attacker, accidentally crushing half of the mask underfoot. No...Not "he", as Chrom realized upon looking at Marth's face, "Wait a sec, y-you're a woman!?"
Marth looked up, realizing what had happened, "A-And quite the actress, too. I'm surprised you didn't figure that out until just now." This caused Robin to snicker. That sounded like something she would've said had she been in Marth's shoes. Just then, there was a loud boom from inside the castle, drawing the three's attention toward it, "We'd better hurry," Marth said, "They might've gotten reinforcements!" Chrom and Robin nodded as they ran into the castle.

As the three ran through the halls, they stumbled upon Lissa and Frederick frantically searching through the hallways, possibly searching for Chrom and Robin, "Frederick, Lissa, what's going on!?" Chrom asked the pair.
"Trouble, milord!" Frederick explained, "Turns out some of the guards were actually Pelgians in disguise. Do not worry, though. Her Grace is currently secure within her bedroom with the others guarding her."
Chrom then turned to Marth, "Looks like you were telling the truth after all."
"Uhh, Chrom, who is she?" Lissa asked.
"This is Marth."
"Marth's a-?" Lissa stopped herself midsentence, embarrassed and crestfallen, "Oh ok, uh yeah...I-I knew that."
Marth shook her head, "We don't have time to waste on such trivial matters, we must protect the Exalt at all costs!"
"Marth's right," Robin said, "We don't know how many Plegians are currently here. For all we know, there could be a whole army outside. Frederick, lead the way." Frederick nodded as they headed back the way both he and Lissa had come. By the time they had made it to Emmeryn's hiding spot, the whole area had looked like a storm ravaged through there. Observing the area, they saw that there were no casualties from either the Shepherds or the pegasus knights as they turned to see their comrades, "Chrom, all hell's broke loose!" Sully shouted, "We've got thugs by the mile and a few injured! Maribelle's doing the best she can, but without more healers, I think they'll eventually get the better of us!"
Chrom then turned to Robin, "You have a plan?"
"Almost," Robin answered, "Sully, who all is injured now?"
Stahl, Miriel, Vaike and that idiot, Virion. Damned fool took a sword for me when I can take care of myself!"
"Lissa, can you get them back in the action?"
"I dunno Robin," Lissa answered, "I don't know the extent of their injuries yet, so it'll be hard to tell until then."
Robin nodded, "Then assist Maribelle and hope for the best!"
"Right!" Lissa then ran off. Robin then turned to Sully, "Get Lon'qu, Donnel and Kellam and have them defend the east side while you and Marth handle the west. Frederick, find Sumia and join up with Chrom and I, we're taking the fight to them! If we find their leader, killing him should cause the others to flee."
"Wait, you wanna pair up this time?" Chrom asked.
Robin smiled confidently, "Someone's gotta keep you from getting yourself killed. Besides, we're a team, remember?"
Chrom nodded as everyone made their way to their positions.

Chrom, Robin, Sumia and Frederick headed down the next hallway as they were charged by three bandits, Robin and Frederick taking them down with ease as the third ran up to Chrom, but did not draw a weapon as Chrom drew his and pointed it at his chest, "Drop all of your weapons or die where you stand!"
Easy Blue, I ain't here to hurt anyone!" The thief answered as he raised his hands, bright orange hair in stark contrast with his black and gray outfit.
"And yet, you run with a band of assassins?" Chrom asked incredulously.
The thief nodded his head, "Fair point. But in my defense, I had no idea about the whole assassinate the Exalt thing, honest! I only heard something about breaking into a vault and decided it'd be nice to get my hands on some royal loot! I mean, from what I've seen, the Exalt's a nice lady. Sure, I'd rob her blind, but kill her? That's way above my pay grade! Had I known what these fiends were truly up to, I'd sit this out."
Chrom then had an idea, "Well...How about proving your good intentions?"
"Beg pardon?" the bandit asked.
"Milord,  Asking Robin to join the Shepherds is one thing, but this brigand is here to kill your sister! How can you trust him just at his word!?"
"Easy, Frederick, we'll need all the help we can get," Chrom said, "So whaddya say?"
The thief pondered for a moment, then gave his answer: "What the hell, I guess I'm in. So long as you...sweeten the deal, of course."
"Alright, fine," Chrom said, reaching into his pockets as a small bag fell out, "Oops."
"What's that?" the thief asked.
"Oh nothing," Chrom answered, "just some candy I bought for my sister, I kinda forgot to give it to her."
"C-Candy?"
"Uhh...yeah?"
"You give me that and you got yourself a deal, Blue!"
Chrom stared at him, dumbfounded, "You'd risk your life...for a bag of sweets?"
The thief shrugged, "I mean, I was gonna use that gold to buy some anyway. Besides, I did ask you to sweeten the deal."
"That you did, I suppose," Chrom said, shaking his head as he tossed the bag to his newfound ally, "Ok then, uhh welcome aboard..."
"Gaius, lockpick extraordinaire and sweets connoisseur, at your service!" With that, the group then made their way into one of the main halls, which was now overrun with bandits. "Huh, I forgot how many of us there were," Gaius observed, "That's my bad."
"Do you at least know who or where their leader is?" Robin asked him.
"He might still be outside, I think," Gaius answered, "I don't know his name but he looks like if Grima himself took human form. Probably should've been a dead giveaway that they were coming here to do more than just loot the place."
"Alright then, Frederick, Sumia, you take the ones on the right, Gaius, Chrom, you two handle the left. I'm going straight down the middle! Hopefully if we drop enough of these guys, we can-" Robin was interrupted as a large, rabbit-like creature jumped from where Sully and Lucina were on guard as it pounced upon one of the soldiers and turned and used its hind legs to kick down another as Marth and Sully joined the fray. "Great, more trouble!" Chrom said, charging towards the strange creature as Marth ran to stop him, "Wait! Panne is not your enemy!"
Chrom stopped in his tracks, "Do you know her?"
"I know...of her," Marth explained, "I knew she would appear here tonight and I know she is an ally!" Just then, the beast changed shape and became more humanoid with brown hair, bunny ears and long, brown hair, and wore a strange sort of armor as she looked upon Chrom with disgust in her red eyes. He then sheathed his sword, "Very well, I've yet to doubt your judgement now. I apologize for my rudeness, Panne." He then outstretched his hand.
"Keep your paws away from me, man-spawn!" Panne barked, "I'm only here because my warren owes a debt to you savages! Once I've washed my hands of it, I will be on my way." Chrom seemed taken aback by Panne's rudeness, "Alright then, for the time being, I thank you for your support."

The fight began to wear down not just the brigands, but the Shepherds as well. Robin did not take into account the many magic users they would be facing as well. Fortunately, the Shepherds appeared to have the upper hand. As the others fought off the remaining bandits, Robin moved toward the entrance the bandits used as a tall man entered the building, dark-skinned with black hair and red, rage-filled eyes that unlike Panne's, were filled with pure malice. Gaius was right. He did look like Grima in human form. Or at least, from the drawings she saw. "If you want something done right, might as well do it yourself." he muttered as his attention was then drawn to Robin as a smirk then developed upon his face, "Well, well. I know you..."
"What?" Robin was taken aback by this. Who is this man?
"Perhaps if you're willing to surrender, I might indulge your...curiosity." Robin kept slowly walking back as the man continued his equal pace towards her "Y-You're lying!" she shouted, "For all I know, you're just some brigand here on an assassination attempt!"
The man's smile widened, "Oh, but I do know a great deal about you...Robin." Robin's eyes widened as she began to hyperventilate, "Did that surprise you, my dear? I imagine that it did." What she felt in that moment was an emotion she had yet to truly feel. Something that after so many life-and-death battles, she thought she could never feel like this. But she did. An emotion that was far worse than how she felt about her feelings to Chrom. Robin, for the first time as far as she could remember, felt truly terrified. Who is he? How did he know my name!? What else could he possibly know about me!?! As all of these questions began swirling around in her head, she wasn't paying attention to the man's red tome being opened, charging a blast of fire. She suddenly snapped back to reality as she heard Chrom's voice: "Robin, look out!" As Robin saw what he had warned her about, she managed to roll out of the way, the blast of fire merely grazing the side of the head as Chrom ran to her side, striking at the villain as he effortlessly dodged out of the way. Robin slowly got to her feet, pulling out a red tome of her own she had bought back when she went to Ylisstol's market. That red-haired girl always seemed to have quite the interesting inventory. Perhaps the others could benefit from it. As Chrom began attempting to strike at the fiend repeatedly, he then kicked Chrom down and prepared to use his magic to incinerate him as he planned to do with her. Seeing this, Robin began feeling a deep-rooted anger. Something deep within her that felt...truly evil. She ignored it for now, and unleashed all of the power had built up and shouted only a single word: "ARCFIRE!!" The man looked up too late as Robin's blast of fire sent him flying into the yard as his whole body was engulfed in flames as he sputtered out his last words. "I-Impossible...How...How could you have possibly...? " His last word cut off as he disintegrated into a small, black stain. Chrom got back to his feet as Robin fell to her knees. The power she used just then, it had drained her far more quickly than how he normally felt after overuse of magic. What was that? More importantly, what about that man? Could he truly have the answers I'mseeking? These questions would have to wait as Chrom outstretched his hand to help her up, "Chrom, are you ok?" Robin asked as she took his hand.
"Me? What about you!?" Chrom asked, pulling her up, "You're bleeding!"
Robin looked at him confused, then reached where the sorcerer's blast had grazed her head, immediately retracting her hand as she winced from the pain, "I-It's nothing, the others probably have far worse injuries than me, I'll be fine once everyone else is checked up by Lissa and Maribelle."
Chrom shook his head, "B-But what if it gets infected later!? Robin, something like this will probably get worse! I say this not because I need my tactician, but also because I need my friend!"
Robin felt her face getting hotter as Chrom's concern touched her, "I-I can take care of myself, Chrom. I'm not made of glass, so please stop treating me like I am."
Chrom then scratched the back of his head, "Y-You're right. I'm sorry, Robin. It's just...knowing that I started this war...if someone were to die because of my poor decision-making, I...I couldn't ever forgive myself."
So that was why he did that stupid stunt! Robin then smiled, "I appreciate your concerns, Chrom. I really do, but if you keep trying to shelter me, the rest of the army will falter. As your friend, I appreciate all you've done for me. You helped me when I had nowhere to go, despite Frederick's concerns. You gave me a home, a family and I can never ever fully repay your kindness. I owe you my life."
Now it was Chrom's turn to feel a little embarrassed, "O-Oh, it was nothing! I was just doing what anyone would've done, that's all. You needed help and I simply reached out."
"However, at the same time, I'm now just a soldier in your army. So as your soldier, you must treat me as if I am but another pawn. Can you do this for me? Please?"
Chrom nodded, "You got it, Robin." The two then shared an embrace for what felt like forever to them. If possible, Robin wanted to remain like that for the rest of time. She then remembered their standings as she quickly released him, "W-Well, we should go check on the Exalt to see if she's ok."
"Uh, yeah," Chrom said, "Come on, let's go."

Emmeryn then emerged from her room as she looked upon the disarray of the halls. Her attention was then drawn to the soldiers who had defended her, "Is everybody alright?"
"No casualties, Your Grace," Philla reported, "A few injured, but the healers are doing the best they can tending to the injured. Forgive me for not making sure they got into the castle at all."
"Peace, Phila," Emmeryn told her, "We were all caught off-guard, all of us couldn't have predicted an attempt as elaborate as this. You did your best, and that is all I ask of you."
"You're too kind to me, Your Grace."
"Emm!" Emmeryn turned to see Chrom running towards her, hugging her tightly, "Are you alright? Were you injured!?"
"I'm alright, Chrom. All thanks to you and the others."
Chrom then let go of her sister, "We also have to thank Marth, if it wasn't for her, I could've been injured myself."
"Marth?"
"Yeah, she's-" Chrom stopped as he surveyed the soldiers who had followed him back, but there was no sign of the enigmatic figure, "Um Robin? Where's Marth?"
"I don't know," Robin said, "She must've slipped out after the battle."
"Oh gods, not again!" Chrom said as he ran out of the castle.

Marth stared up at the castle, illuminated by the light of the moon. What she had come here to do was complete. The future she had witnessed was averted. So why? Why did she feel as if something was terribly wrong? She held her necklace in her hand, fist tightening around it. She would avenge him. She would ensure that what she had seen would never come to pass. Then, she started to walk away, only to see her path blocked by Chrom, "Going somewhere?" Marth froze, she wasn't quick enough to slip away, "You know, you've got a bad habit of leaving without saying good-bye."
Marth looked down, "I have many...bad habits, I fear."
"Outweighed by the good ones," Chrom said, "You've saved the lives of both of my sisters, and for that, I am in your debt. If there is any way I can repay you, please name it. I shall do everything within my power to ensure it is granted."
Marth shook her head, "Hearing you offer is reward enough for me, I have what I came for. The rewriting of history"
"To what end?"
"After the Exalt's assassination, the Fire Emblem is stolen. And the world would end from a grizzly war. Though, this probably sounds ludicrous to you."
"Strangely, it doesn't. Somehow I know I can trust you deep down."
Marth smiled, "Well, I must be on my way now. Perhaps we may meet again someday." Marth then ran off as Chrom then heard a small clink! He then walked over to the source of the noise and saw a golden ring with a small chain around it, "H-Hey, Marth! You dropped-!" His words couldn't reach her as she had already gotten pretty far away. It was a beautiful piece of jewelry as Chrom began to observe it, holding it by its chain. He then saw something strange. The ring. In the center was the Brand of the Exalt! Chrom then felt his arm move toward his own, on his right shoulder. Why did Marth have a ring with the Brand on it? That symbol was only known to be seen upon the skin of the First Exalt's descendants! Another thing that stuck out to him. An engraving in the middle. A single word that seemed to be of great importance: 'MORGAN'. Was that Marth's real name? Was it someone she knew? Chrom then pocketed the ring, promising to return it to Marth next time they meet.

The sorcerer then awoke in a black void surrounded by purple mist. How? How could he still be alive!? The wretched child had killed him! This mattered not now, as he stayed still, "Damn it all! How did they know of my plans!? I had everything so meticulously planned out myself!"
"Quite simple really," A feminine voice answered him, "They had...some outside interference."
"Whose there!? Show yourself!!"
"Validar, you are to serve a much greater purpose than you realize. Your destiny...It is not to end here, The voice answered, as the source walked forward through the mist, a cloaked figure in black, "As for who I am? I...am the power that compels you."
Validar's eyes widened, "No...That's impossible! It can't be!!"
The figure then let out a sinister chuckle, "That's right Validar. I am the wings of despair...I am the breath of ruin...I...am the fell dragon, Grima..."

Chapter Text

As Emmeryn spoke with Robin about the current situation, she turned to look at Panne who eyed her with suspicion, "Excuse me, but are you a taguel, perhaps?"
Panne's ears perked up at the mention of the word, "So, you know of our race's true name? How peculiar."
"A taguel?" Robin asked, "What's that?"
"I am a taguel," Panne said, choking on her next words, "The...last taguel. You man-spawn used to call us names like 'beast' or 'coney' as you hunted us down to extinction! Do not think of us as friends, you and I! I was simply repaying a debt that I had owed. Now that I have, I shall take my leave."
"Wait!" Emmeryn called out to her, "Is that true? Have all the taguel been hunted down? Who would do such a terrible thing!?"
"Don't act so surprised, man-spawn," Panne spat, her back to Emmeryn, "Your kind invaded my warren. Your kind would sell us off to hunters looking for a challenge. The only reason I survived was because my mother hid me away. And now...I am all alone. Your kind will stop at nothing to destroy everything they touch, including yourselves!"
Emmeryn was shocked by the venom in Panne's words as a single tear fell from her face. Though Panne's face was away from hers, she could tell that her tears, filled with both sadness and anger, flowed as well, "I see...My mother used to read me stories of the taguel. How in your society, no matter what differences you may have had, everyone was always treated with fairness. Perhaps there is much we could have learned from you. Perhaps, in another life, our two races could coexist. My words may come too late and mean too little, but on behalf of all mankind, I am truly sorry for what we have put you through."
"Your words are nothing but wind, man-spawn!"
"I know...but they are all I can think of to offer. If there is some way I can repay you for not just your help tonight, but also to help ease the pain you feel, please do not hesitate to name it. I will personally see to it that your request is fulfilled immediately."
Panne then turned to face Emmeryn, the anger that was once upon her face somewhat dissipated, "...You have offered me a kindness that I have never once experienced in my entire life. Not only that, you seem to understand my pain. I know deep within my heart that I may never trust mankind, but for you, I shall perhaps make an exception."
Emmeryn smiled at this, "Thank you, brave taguel for this opportunity to earn your trust. I promise to do everything within my power to never break it."
"I shall hold you to your word...Emmeryn." Chrom then ran back into the room, "Emm, from what Marth told me, these guys were after the Emblem. Gangrel must've sent them here to retrieve it! It's not safe for either you or the Emblem to remain here, which is why I request you come with us to Regna Ferox! Basilio and Flavia can guarantee your safety there!"
Emmeryn shook her head, "And leave our people unguarded? I cannot do that. If they think I do not stand with them, Ylisse will devolve into chaos."
"Well, you can't stand with your people if you're dead!" Chrom argued, "I won't allow you to die at the hands of that fiend, Gangrel!"
"I must agree with the prince, Your Grace," Phila chimed in, "I'd sooner die than see your blood spilled!"
"I understand your concerns, Chrom and Phila but my decision is final: I will not leave Ylisse just to run and hide like a coward."
"I'm not asking you to be a coward!" Chrom said, "All that I ask is that you think of yourself for once! You can't rule the people if you're dead!"
Frederick then stepped forward, "If I may offer a compromise, we should move Her Grace and the Fire Emblem to the eastern palace. That way she can remain in the halidom while remaining safe from possible attacks!"
"That's brilliant, Frederick!" Chrom said, elated, "Plegia doesn't even know of the eastern palace's existence! Emm, I know how you feel about leaving, but I won't go to Ferox unless I know you are out of harm's way."
Emmeryn sighed, "Very well. If this will put you at ease, then I shall do as you ask."
"Thanks Emm, I mean that. We'll take you over before we cross the northern border."

Chrom found himself wandering the halls of the castle as he ran into Lissa, who had just managed to pack all of her supplies, "Hey Lissa, do you know where Robin is?"
"Uh yeah, she went down the hall thataway," she answered, pointing down the left corridor, "Last door to the right, can't miss it!"
"Thanks, Lissa," Chrom said as he walked in the direction Lissa had directed him. All these rooms and Chrom had only seen maybe a handful, and even then he had forgotten what most of them were for. Only Emmeryn seemed to remember what each and every room was. As Chrom approached the door, he appeared to trip on something. He looked down to see Robin's coat and boots on the floor. Odd. Chrom then shrugged and knocked on the door, "Uhh, Robin are you in there?"
No response.
"Robin? Hello!?"
Again, nothing.
Chrom then knocked harder, "Hey! I have a question about our next move!!"
"Chrom? Is that you!?" Robin asked, then hastily added, "D-Don't come in, I'll be out in a second!"
"What? 'Come in'?" Chrom answered, mishearing Robin as he tried the doorknob. It was unlocked as Chrom entered and closed it behind him. The entire room was covered in steam, "Gods, I can barely see a damn thing in here. Robin, where are you?" He then heard a loud scream from in front of him and he rushed over, "Robin, are you okay!? Are you-" Chrom then realized what this room was...And why there was so much steam! Oh gods...Chrom, you fool! There was an awkward pause before Chrom spoke up, his face bright red, "Um, is there any particular reason you're...not wearing any clothes?" Smooth, Chrom. Like sandpaper.
Robin then took a deep breath, "Chrom, perhaps rather than just standing there like a slack-jawed moron, you could kindly WAIT OUTSIDE LIKE I ASKED YOU TO!?"
"But I...you said...Oh gods, I didn't mean to-"
"GET OOOOOOOOOOOOOUT!!" Robin yelled as she started to grab whatever she could get her hands on and began hurling it at Chrom.
"Hey, stop tha-ow! ok, ok! I'm leaving, I'm leaving now! I'm so sorry!" Chrom then ran back the way he came and exited the room as quickly as possible. After what felt like hours, Robin finally emerged, fully clothed this time, her face just as red as Chrom's, "Alright you, what kind of idiot walks into a bathroom that is occupied by a lady? Have you no shame!?"
"I am so SO sorry, Robin," Chrom said, hanging his head, "I had no intention of seeing you like that, honest! All these rooms eventually start to blur together and you kinda forget what each room is, heheh."
Robin then sighed, "Fine. Apology accepted. Now what was so damned important?"
"Oh, right!" Chrom said, taking out a map from his back pocket, "Frederick and I were discussing our next move. You see, there's a village we could cross through, but there's also a mountain we can cross. It's a bit steep and will take a little bit longer to cross than the village, but we'd be able to avoid any sort of attention and possible attack from brigands. So, I was wondering which route would be the best for our expedition."
Robin then scratched her chin, "I'd say through the mountain would be our best bet, we'll draw less attention to ourselves."
"Yeah, that's what I was thinking," Chrom replied, "I just wanted to get a second opinion, that's all. Uhh, thanks Robin!"
"No problem," Robin replied as Chrom began walking away. He then paused, then turned around to face Robin again, "And Robin? There are truly no words I can use to truly convey how sorry I am for all of this."
"It's fine Chrom, water under the bridge. Let's just...forget about it."
"Y-Yeah, good idea," Chrom said, "So, I'll catch you later?" Chrom then stopped as he realized the implication, "No...I mean, I'll see you later! No I mean...goodbye..." Chrom then awkwardly speed walked away.

Robin shook her head as she put on her coat and boots. For a captain of an army, he could be quite dense sometimes. And all he wanted was her opinion on something so trivial? Gods, this whole thing felt like something out of a cheesy romance novel. Robin sighed as she walked to the guest room Emmeryn had pointed out for her. Robin sighed as she removed her coat and boots once again and flopped onto the bed. Finally, some down time. Robin then heard a knock at her door. "It's open!" Robin called out, praying that whoever it was, it wasn't Chrom. Thankfully, her prayers were answered as Lissa entered, "Heya Robin, just here to check on you. Also, I brought you some tea. Do you like tea?"
"Ooh, tea does sound good," she said, "Thanks!" Lissa set the tea tray on the nightstand and handed Robin a cup as she drank it. It was a bit hot, but good. She then began to blow on it. "I hope you like it, it's a citrus blend."
"Y-Yeah, it's good," Robin replied, "Just a bit hot, that's all."
Lissa sighed with relief, "Oh good, it took me like, three tries to get it right. Thank gods four is my lucky number!"
"Hear, hear," Robin said with a smile, taking another sip. The atmosphere was absolutely just right as Lissa had hoped for, it was now to spring her trap...As Robin took another sip of her tea, she knew now was the time to strike: "So, whaddya think about Chrom?"
The question caught Robin so off-guard, she spat out her tea in surprise, then began coughing, "Wh-What possessed you to ask such a question!?"
Lissa started giggling, "Sorry, it's just...you two seem so close now, that's all! I mean, it's only been like a month and you two are practically inseparable! Makes me wonder..."
"C-Chrom and I are just friends," Robin argued, her reddening face betraying her words, "And besides Me a-and Chrom!? That's the kinda thing only in fairy tales! And besides, he's such a moron and is terribly overbearing! W-Why would I date someone like that!?"
"Hey relax, I was just asking, that's all," Lissa said, her sickly sweet smile hiding her lies.
Robin sighed, "Sorry, Lissa. I-I don't know what possessed me there."
"It's all good, I understand. I wouldn't wanna date someone like Chrom either. The guy's as romantic as a rock and twice as dense."
Robin laughed, then changed the subject, "So how are you holding up in all of this?"
"Surprisingly well," Lissa answered, "Although, I wish Chrom and Emm were more honest about the severity of it all."
"What do you mean?"
Lissa sighed, "It's just that...They've both protected me my whole life after mom died. And they still do. I don't mind it too much, but seeing them smile when I know deep down they're hurting...I hate that! I just want them to be more honest with me about stuff like that, that's all."
Robin nodded, "Sometimes I can see it, too. It's like they have the whole world on their shoulders. Maybe it's because...they think they have to."
"But they don't! Don't they know that!?"
"It might be all they know," Robin explained, "Chrom told me about...about your father. What that man put you all through and how they shielded you from him. They're scared that you'll be hurt by the pain they're holding on to. They don't want you to suffer like they did so maybe, you can ask to help them too. Maybe then, they can learn to share the burden."
Lissa smiled, "Thanks Robin...You're a great friend."
"It's no problem," Robin answered, "I'll always be here for you. For everyone here."
"In that case, could I sleep here tonight? It'll be fun to have a mini-sleepover before our grueling march tomorrow."
Robin giggled, "I don't see why not."
"Yesssssssssssssssssssss!" Lissa said with a grin as she pulled out her sleeping bag, "This is gonna be so fun!" After she laid her bag on the ground, she rejoined Robin on the bed as the two began talking more for quite a while.

"Ugh, my legs feel like jelly," Robin complained, "Had I known how much of a trek this was, I would've suggested going through the village instead."
"No kidding," Lissa agreed, "I think I've got blisters the size of eggs by now."
"Come on, guys," Chrom said, "It's not that bad."
"Easy for you to say!" Robin retorted, "You've got the endurance of gods on your side!"
Chrom chuckled, "Then perhaps I should carry you?"
Robin's face began to flush as Lissa chimed in, "Ooh, ooh! Carry me, carry me! No seriously, I would actually be ok with it. Please carry me! Please, please!"
"You need the exercise, Lissa," Chrom said, rolling his eyes, "And besides, it was only a joke."
"You meanie!"
"I-I can walk all by myself, thank you very much!" Robin called out as she suddenly sped walked ahead of Chrom.
Chrom then let out a chuckle, "Hey, relax! I was kidding." Gods, she could be quite adorable when she got angry like that. "Hey Chrom?" Lissa said.
"Yeah?"
"Didja ask Robin out yet~?"
"No, I ha-" Chrom stopped himself as Lissa's question finally hit him. He then looked down at her, a shit-eating grin across her face, "Wh-Who just asks a question like that!?"
Lissa giggled to herself, "Relax, big brother. I was only kidding!"
Chrom's face was as red as the strawberries Maribelle sometimes brought with her when Lissa and her had tea together, "Still, y-you don't just ask something like that! Robin and I are close friends, nothing more! She's my tactician Lissa, it wouldn't be appropriate for either of us!!"
"You really ought to be less tense Chrom, it's bad for your health."
"Lissa, don't you dare say a word of this. To anyone!"
Lissa smirked, "What're ya gonna do if I did? Well, I'll be off now! Tata~" Lissa then ran off as Chrom tried to stop her. Oh gods, not this again!

"YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH, I knew it!" Lissa yelled after she managed to get far enough away from most of the others, "I knew there was something between them! Now, who to tell? Maribelle, obviously. But fiiiiiiirst..." Lissa then ran over to where the pegasus knights who were guarding her sister, jumping up and down trying to get her attention. Eventually, Emmeryn turned and saw her sister and told the knights to allow her into her circle, "Hello, Lissa. What brings you here?"
"Man, have I got the scoop for you!" Lissa said, a smug grin plastered on her face.
Emmeryn giggled, "Very well, what is this 'scoop' you have for me?"
"It's about Chrom!" Lissa said, before motioning Emmeryn to move her ear so she could whisper to her. "I think Chrom is in love with someone~"
"Oh," Emmeryn said, "Is that so?"
Lissa was surprised by her reaction, "'Oh'! That's all you have to say!? This is Chrom we're talking about! CHROM! You know, the guy who thought a 'bride' was some kind of fruit for fifteen years!?"
"I know Chrom isn't exactly the...romantic type, but he's a man now. He is allowed to love whomever he wants. And besides, it's not very nice to gossip about things like this. How would you feel if Chrom came to me to talk about a crush you have?"
"Not very good, I guess..." Lissa said, hanging her head in shame, "I'm sorry, Emm..."
Emmeryn just smiled, "Although, I am most curious, who is our lucky lady?"
Lissa's face brightened, "Well you see, dear sister..."

"Hey Robin, what's wrong?" Chrom asked, "You've been staring at the hierarch for a while now."
Robin then turned her attention from the strange old man, "I dunno, he keeps glancing up at the mountains. It's kinda odd, that's all. If I didn't know any better, I'd say he was expecting something..."
"What utter nonsense!" Frederick chimed in, "Unlike yourself, the hierarch has been a stalwart ally of House Ylisse for thirty years and has served as Her Grace's and milord's personal tutor! These are very dangerous times for us all, of course he would be worried. You'd best watch what you're insinuating!"
"Come on Frederick, I'm sure Robin didn't mean anything by it...Though now that you mention it, it is kinda odd how he keeps glancing up like that. Frederick, could you at least make sure he's alright?" Just as Frederick was about to catch up with the hierarch, the group came across a blockade of Plegian soldiers! "What the-!?" Chrom said surprised as they came into view, "How'd they know we'd be here?" Chrom's question answered itself as the hierarch ran towards the soldiers as their leader flew in on his wyvern, taking a deep breath, "You smell that, boys!? Smells like a herd of sheep led by their shepherd to the slaughter!"
"Hold General Vasto, I'm the man Gangrel informed you of! I was informed you would have orders to take me into your protection!" The hierarch said.
"You no-good two-timing scoundrel!" Frederick yelled, "How could you do this to your nation? To Her Grace!?"
"Times change, Frederick!" The hierarch answered, "I am simply ensuring my own survival and unfortunately for you, Plegia gave me an offer I cannot refuse!"
Vasto laughed, "Ah yes, I was ordered to take a man into my care...but I see no man here, only a treacherous pig! And do you know what we do with pigs, geezer?"
The hierarch's eyes widened, "I-I assume you let them...go free...right?"
"Oh, so you're a chicken now? Bawk bawk!" Vasto then started laughing again, "Oh, you are full of surprises! I wasn't expecting a whole farm now. Well, boys? Whose for fried chicken and bacon for lunch!?" The hierarch let out a scream as Vasto's axe sliced him in his torso and pushed off the mountain, then pointing his axe toward Chrom, "And you're next, pretty boy!"
"Phila, you and the pegasus knights take Emm and get behind us," Chrom ordered, "Everyone else, get ready for battle!"

Chrom found himself against three soldiers all at once as he blocked swing after swing. Chrom then charged forth, disarming the first of his opponents as the second charged from behind. Chrom quickly manuvered his sword to block the attack as he kicked the previous foe off the edge. Just then a sharp pain from his left side caused him to stagger back towards the cliff as the third soldier's blade performed a vertical slash, "Now I'm angry!" Chrom shouted, charging the two with reignited fervor and fought more ferociously than he had before, eventually taking them down as well. Frederick meanwhile, was doing his best fending off one of the wyvern riders as he couldn't land a clear hit with his spear. Just as Frederick stabilized himself, the rider's axe came right at his head as he quickly maneuvered his spear to just barely block the attack and rip the axe from its owner's grasp and quickly stabbed him in the abdomen, finishing the fight, "Milord, there are too many fliers! We need the pegasus knights, now!"
"But then there won't be anyone to protect Emm!"
"Then have just Phila and two more of them join, I'll fall back to protect Her Grace!" Chrom nodded as Frederick rode off. With Sumia as their only flier, they were at quite the disadvantage, not just because of the number of wyverns, but also due to her inexperience. If only we had another airborne unit...A sudden clang brought Chrom back to reality as Robin blocked another soldier's axe from being brought down upon his head, "This is no time to daydream, captain!"
"Right!" Chrom then swung Falchion at the foe as he maneuvered to block the attack and was quickly overwhelmed by their combined might, and was eventually slain, "I was just thinking we should recruit some more fliers, is all!" he said as Phila and two of her knights flew in, "Prince Chrom, are you alright!?"
"More or less," he said, adrenaline wearing off as the pain began to flare up, "Damn that dastard!"
"I'll go get Lissa to-"
"Prince Chrom! Captain Phila!" Robin's sentence was cut off as she saw another pegasus knight join the fray, bright red hair, silver armor and dark red tunic covered in scratches and dirt, "Damn, they're even here too!?"
"Cordelia!?" Phila gasped, "What're you doing here? Why aren't you at your post!?"
"What's wrong?' Robin asked.
"Cordelia, she's...one of my knights. She's quite young, but extremely gifted. I stationed her along with several others at the southwest border before we left...Oh gods, I hope she's just disobeying orders!" Phila then flew off on her pegasus after Cordelia as they battled the Pelgian's riders as Stahl rode up to Chrom, "Sir! The enemy forces are overwhelming us! Sully's spear shattered and I think Gaius had his arm broken! What do we do!?"
"Get the injured behind us and those who can fight to form up," Robin answered, "If we force the enemy to come to us, it'll be easier to deal with the fliers!" Stahl nodded as he departed to spread the word as she and Chrom retreated closer to where they came from as Chrom began wincing with every sudden movement, "Chrom, you're injured, you shouldn't be fighting like that!"
"I've survived Frederick's Fantastical Fitness Hour," Chrom said, smiling, "This scratch is nothing compared to those horrors."

Robin began dishing out her orders, "Ricken, Miriel, Virion. You three and myself are the only ones who can handle those fliers at a distance, so we'll move back while Lon'qu, Kellam, Stahl, Donnel, Panne, and Vaike cover us from any ground units. Phila, can I ask that your knights and Sumia try to scatter some of the fliers?"
Phila nodded, "Consider it done!"
Robin smiled, "Alright, then Maribelle, Lissa and Chrom will get behind us as they cannot fight."
"I told you, it's just a scratch," Chrom protested, "I'll be fine!"
"I won't take a gamble on your life! If you die, we lose regardless of this battle's outcome!"
Chrom was about to protest, but instead just sighed, "Fine, I trust you, Robin."
"You don't have to worry about missing all the action," Lissa told him, "I'll have you fighting fit in no time!" The fight raged on for what felt like hours, but slowly the Ylisseans began to gain the upperhand as more and more Plegians began dropping like flies. Vasto then flew in on his wyvern just as Chrom rejoined the fray, "I'll splatter your royal guts all over the canyon floor!"
"Virion, Ricken, now!" Robin barked as Virion let loose an arrow that pierced the oncoming wyvern's wing membrane. It let out a roar and knocked its rider off before retreating as Ricken blasted it with a wind spell. Vasto slowly got up and retrieved his axe, "You think grounding me is gonna make a difference!? Watch me prove you wrong!" He charged Chrom as he brought down his axe. Chrom simply deflected the blow and then pierced Vasto's heart with his sword, causing him to let out a painful exhale and then began to laugh, "You...you think killing me is gonna make a difference? I can assure you it...it won't! I...I've done my part...so go ahead, you exalted coward...keep running. Your sins will c-catch up to you...eventually..." And with that, the great Vasto was no more as Chrom pulled his sword from his corpse and pushed it off the cliff too.

"Cordelia, what are you doing here!?" Phila asked, "Tell me the border remains secure!"
"Th-That I could," Cordelia answered, averting Phila's gaze, "but that'd be false. King Gangrel, he...he led his forces against us. Everything was going fine at first, but then he...it was a slaughter, Captain Phila...everybody stationed at the border...they're...they're all gone...All they could do was buy me time as I escaped. Gods, I can still...hear their screams! Oh gods...why!?" Cordelia fell to her knees and began to sob as Phila tried to comfort her. Chrom then slammed his fist on the side of the mountain, "That damned dastard! How many more must die for the sake of his revenge!?"
"This is all my fault."
Chrom's head whipped around to see Emmeryn behind him, "Emm, what're you talking about!?"
"I should never have stepped foot outside the capital. All this pain and suffering. Their blood is on my hands...If it is discovered I am not there when this information comes to light, there will be chaos. Riots. More needless death! I will not stand for it any longer!"
"Emm, what're you saying!?" Chrom said angrily, "None of this is your fault! If anything, the fault is mine for reigniting this conflict! I will return to the capital and lead while you're safe! Please, let me do this!"
Emmeryn just shook her head, "I fear you are not yet ready for that responsibility. And besides, the people will think I am a cowardly hypocrite."
"Let them think that!" Chrom pleaded, "I...I can't let you die! Please! There has to be something else, Emm! I'm sure I can think of something!"
"I fear that would waste precious time. Time that we can no longer afford now. Chrom, you must go to Ferox now and ask for their assistance. Phila shall escort me back to the palace."
"Your grace, please reconsider!" Phila pleaded, "this decision...it's suicide!"
"I have already made up my mind, Phila. We must hurry now."
Phila hesitated, then sighed, "I know better than to try and dissuade you once you've made up your mind. I will not leave your side once we return."
"Thank you, my friend," Emmeryn said, "And Chrom, before I go. I have something for you." Emmeryn then took out a strange, golden shield with a white gem near the top and four empty slots circling the center, possibly for other similar gemstones. "Y-You're giving me the Emblem? Why?"
"It is not safe in my possession, nor at the palace," Emmeryn answered solemnly, "I hope that it finds itself in better care with you."
"Don't say things like that! It sounds like you're...you're giving up."
"I am not giving up, Chrom. Only doing what I can."
Robin then stepped forward, "Wait, Your Grace! Let me come with you! I may not be the best fighter, but I can certainly hold my own!"
"I appreciate the offer Robin," Emmeryn said, "But your place right now is to be by Chrom's side. Something tells me he needs you more than you will even know. Try to keep him out of trouble for me."
"I-I understand," Robin said, pondering the meaning of her words. What did she mean by Chrom needing her?
Just then Cordelia spoke up, "I'm coming too, I couldn't face my sisters in the afterlife if I didn't do everything I could for you and Captain Phila!"
"Cordelia, your knight-sisters did everything they could to ensure your safety. I would dishonor them by putting you back in harm's way."
"I can't just sit here and do nothing, Captain! Please, I have to do this!"
Phila took a moment before sighing, "Alright, just stay close, got it? Don't do anything foolish."
"Thank you, Captain. I only hope that they'll be watching over us."

With the necessary preparations complete, Emmeryn was just about to join Phila upon her steed when suddenly Lissa ran up to her and hugged her tightly. Emmeryn then looked down to her, "Lissa please, I must hurry now."
"NO! I won't let you go! I won't let you just march off to your death like this! Chrom needs you! I-I need you!! Emm, please, I don't want you to die! Why do you always have to put yourself in so much pain just for our sakes!? Let me help! Please, Emm!!" Lissa began to sob into Emmeryn's robes as she simply smiled and returned the gesture, "Lissa, it will all be ok now. I promise you now this will not be our last goodbye. I'll still be here when you come back from Ferox, I promise. Please let go now." Lissa reluctantly did as she asked as she boarded Phila's steed. Chrom then stepped forward, a solemn look on his face, "This is a terrible plan, just so you know."
"Chrom, the blood of the First Exalt flows strongly within us, I have no doubt in my mind that we will keep our people safe. Stay strong, Chrom and Lissa. And stay safe." And with that last goodbye, Phila, Cordelia and the rest of the pegasus knights took off. They flew in near silence towards Ylisstol as Emmeryn stared forward, seeing the castle come into view, sighing, "Phila?"
"Yes, Your Grace?"
"Do you ever regret that day? When I asked for your assistance?"
"What brought this about?"
"Just...my mind drifting, is all. I often wonder if I did the right thing all those years ago. I was blinded by my rage when I saw Chrom like that. But now I wonder if maybe I hadn't done it, this whole mess could've been avoided somehow."
"By the time you could understand what he was doing, he had already burned away and good grace we could've had with Plegia. But I think Ylisse would be a darker place with that tyrant still upon the throne."
"Perhaps there is truth to your words, my friend. But of everything I have ever done in my life, that will always be my biggest regret. I can never forgive myself for taking a life. Especially in such a cowardly way..."
"You know Emmeryn, it was my crime as well. I was the one who suggested we do it. If anyone should have to bear the weight of that sin, it should be me...and me alone."
"It is always nice to hear you use my name, Phila. In fact, I find myself preferring you use it more. We have known each other since childhood."
"But it would be inappropriate to do so...in my current position. Especially so in front of others."
"I do not believe that to be the case at all." Phila felt her face reddened as the pegasi descended from the heavens and landed at the entrance to the castle. The small group made their way to the door as Emmeryn reached for the handle. She paused for a second. Something felt...wrong. She then steeled her resolve as she opened the door and they all walked into the throne room, "Oh my, the Exalt has returned! What an excellent surprise..."

Emmeryn looked in horror as she saw Gangrel, sitting upon her throne and resting his head on his fist as he smirked while Aversa stood behind him with a similar expression. Phila then stepped in front of Emmeryn, drawing her spear, "What the hell do you think you're doing here!?" she demanded.
"Relax, guard dog. I was simply informed that the Exalt was...stepping out for a while and I figured that out of the goodness in my heart, you would've liked to have a royal seat warmer for your return."
Cordelia then stepped forward, readying her own weapon, "How can you say such a thing like that after all the lives you've taken, dastard!?"
"Well ain't you got a potty mouth? Not my fault I had to squash some annoying insects that were bothering me. You do that all the time and you don't see me judging you for it."
"Enough," Emmeryn said, "Gangrel, what is your true reasoning for being here?"
"Well lets see," Gangrel then used his free hand to scratch his chin, "I was simply told that there would be a belated birthday bash just for me at Ylisstol castle! Receiving such a generous invite like that, I just had to get ready for it. Birthdays are truly a special thing to some, aren't they? Well anyway, once I walked in, you can imagine my shock when I saw no decorations! Worse still was the lack of yummy birthday cake! But I did hear that you left my present around here somewhere, and so I looked and looked until I realized how much I've always hated scavenger hunts, so I decided to ask the event organizer if she could...give me a clue. Also this might just be the worst birthday party I've ever had! And I grew up on the harsh streets of Plegia!"
"I assume you mean the Emblem," Emmeryn responded, "Even if I wished to grant it to you, it is no longer here. It is in safer hands now."
"The fuck's that supposed to-?" Gangrel stopped midsentence as he realized what she meant, "Ohhhhhh, you gave it to the boy...Well, I guess that's score one for you since I'd have to go through Ferox to get it, which would be a pain in the ass indeed."
"Perhaps we need not seek it out," Aversa suggested, "but rather, we have it come to us."
Gangrel then laughed, "Ya know, Aversa? If I wasn't as old as I am now, I'd kiss ya! But yes, that is a fine idea!"
Phila gripped her spear tighter, "I don't like this, Your Grace..."
"I figured ya wouldn't, lap dog but since I can't have my most requested gift, I must instead insist on another, which has demoted this war's placement to third most wanted. What's the new second? It's quite simple really...Just the sound of absolute despair your people will give off as I remove that pretty little head from that body of yours!"
"You shut your mouth, you vile dog!" Phila growled.
"That's rich, given I ain't the one who's barking!" Gangrel taunted, "Of course, I doubt you can even understand what it is I'm saying, considering how puny your Ylissean brain is. Does your oh so holy Exalt drink up your brains while you sleep? It would explain quite a bit..."
"That is enough, King Gangrel," Emmeryn said in a much firmer tone, "I must ask you to leave now. I do not wish for further bloodshed of our people."
"Well that's mighty unfortunate because I want the exact opposite of that! However...I might be willing to reconsider if, say...you willingly come with me..."
"You won't lay a damn finger on her!" Phila shouted, "You WILL leave now or I will make you!"
"Again with the barking from your guard dogs, I swear it's probably the most annoying thing I've ever had to deal with! How do you make them so loyal to you? Brainwashing? Definitely brainwashing. Or maybe...you offer yourself to all who wish it. Now THAT would be quite the scandal indeed! Perhaps you'd be willing to satisfy me as well?" Gangrel's maddening laugh echoed throughout the hall as Phila began to see red. How dare he even insinuate that! This insult should not go unanswered! Phila then let out a war cry as she charged Gangrel, "Phila, wait!" but Emmeryn's words came too late as Phila had already taken off. Aversa was just about to blast her with magic but Gangrel simply raised his hand, dismissing her. He then immediately stood up, drew upon his lightning-shaped blade and cut the tip of her spear, then used his weapon to blast a bolt of electricity, knocking her to the floor. Phila tried to stand up, but the blast had rendered her fairly weak. Gangrel then walked up to her and began pressing his foot against her head, "You really ought to have better control of your mutts, O Holy One."
"Gangrel, stop this!"
Gangrel just grinned, "Well, you know what you have to do in order for me to stop, my dear. So what'll it be? Your people...or yourself? Let's see if you're truly willing to die for those you claim to care about!" Emmeryn hesitated as Cordelia and another pegasus knight crossed their spears before her. "Such a shame...it truly is, but look on the bright side: You get to see how to properly deal with unruly pets! Now, sit!" He began pressing his boot harder against Phila's head as she began to groan in pain, causing Emmeryn to wince. "Lie down!" Gangrel began pressing harder, causing Phila to release a scream of pain as Gangrel took delight in the pain he was inflicting, "And now, for one of my favorites: Play...dead!"
"Stop!"
Gangrel then relaxed his foot, "Yes, Your Majesty?"
"Gangrel...please...please spare my citizens and my knights here...and in exchange, I will comply with your demands."
"No Your Grace, you can't sacrifice yourself!" Cordelia argued, "Chrom would never forgive me if I let something happen to you!"
"I will be alright, Cordelia. I will not allow myself to continue sitting idle while my subjects die for my sake. It is one of the many sins I fear I must answer for."
"No, I can't-!"
"Cordelia, stand down. That is an order." Cordelia gritted her teeth as she and the other knight reluctantly moved their spears as Emmeryn stepped forward, outstretching her arms.
"Wise choice, O Almighty one," Gangrel said, snapping his fingers as several Plegian soldiers emerged from their hiding spots, "My apologies, Exalted One, but I fear I must ensure you hold up your end of the bargain. On the bright side, your execution will not be now, but at the end of the month, at the Dragon's Table!" Then two of the soldiers grabbed the pegasus knights that were previously guarding the Exalt and restrained them. Cordelia then kicked her attacker in the groin, causing him to let out a howl as he fell to his knees, releasing his grip upon her as she kicked him in the head and ran out the door, dodging a blast from Aversa's dark magic as she did. She then scoffed, "Shall I pursue her, my king?"
Gangrel smirked, "It's fine, let her leave. After all, snail mail won't be enough to get the princeling's attention..."

"Milord, we've successfully restocked any and all weapons. Most of our wounded are capable of fighting once more," Frederick said.
"Mhm..." was all a jaded Chrom could respond with.
"Khan Flavia is also rounding up all of her best troops as we prepare to return to Ylisstol."
"Ok..."
Lissa then sighed, "Also, they have a seventy-foot dragon that can shoot rainbows and can resurrect the First Exalt to aid us in our battle!"
"Yeah, I'll look into it..."
"Ugh, you're such a dopey sadsack! Let me know the minute you get out of your own head! Emm's gonna be just fine, I know it! She... She promised us..."
Chrom simply sighed, his sister's words barely registering to him as Sumia stepped forward, "Snap out of it, Captain!" she ordered as her hand struck Chrom's face as he staggered back, "OW! What in the hell was that for!?"
"Oops, did I do it wrong?" Sumia asked, embarrassed, "Phila said that a good slap to the face should break someone from their moodiness..."
"Uh, Sumia?" Frederick said, "When you slap someone, you do it with an open palm and not with a fist."
"What? Then what did I do?"
Lissa giggled, "You just punched the prince in the face!"
Sumia's face sank as she realized what this meant, "Oh gods, I am SO sorry, Chrom!"
"Actually, I think I needed that," Chrom replied, "You've got a good right hook...Though, I guess with all of this, I'm just scared for Emmeryn's safety. And also Robin's been acting strange lately ever since we got here..."
"Strange how, milord?" Frederick asked, furrowing his brow.
"Nothing like what you're thinking," Chrom retorted, "It's just...she's been avoiding me when I thought we were close, that's all..."
"Oooh, I think I might know why~" Lissa said, giggling to herself.
Chrom's face turned bright red, "I-It's not like that at all, Lissa!"
"But it isss~" Lissa taunted and ran away after Chrom started to chase her around the arena.
"Sometimes Lissa says such strange things," Frederick said aloud as he saw Flavia enter, "Ah, Khan Flavia, I take it preparations are in order?"
"Damn right they are!" Flavia replied, then seeing Lissa and Chrom's chase, "I take it the prince is in better spirits?"
"In a way, yes. But I too worry for Her Grace in our time away from her."
"Alright then, we'll be off as soon as possible then!"
"You're coming with us?" Frederick asked.
"A Khan must have her fun, after all. Heck, I'm even dragging my insignificant other with me!" Frederick just stared at her with confusion as she sighed, "Basilio, damn what's with you stiffs and not understanding humor? Uh, no offense."
"None taken."
"Oh yeah, speaking of which, he and Robin have summoned us for a meeting, I trust you can round 'em all up quick?"
Frederick nodded.

Chrom opened the door to the Feroxi war room to see Basilio, Robin and..."Cordelia? What're you doing here? I thought you were protecting Emmeryn?"
Cordelia just averted her gaze as Basilio spoke up, "That the thing, Chrom. Gangrel captured her and took her across their borders. She's to be executed by the end of the moon."
"What!?" Chrom's face sank. No…They were too late! Lissa was also stunned by this news and fainted, her body saved from hitting the floor by a trembling and blushing Lon'qu.
"I-I did all that I could, Chrom..." Cordelia said, tears beginning to fall from her face, "But she...she ordered me to stand down to save Phila. I-I can't save anyone!"
"Cordelia, that's not true!" Sumia said, hugging her friend, "You've saved lives so many times, mine included!"
"That dastard isn't even trying to be subtle about it anymore," Flavia observed, "As far as this goes, it's definitely a trap."
"I agree," Robin answered, "Which is why we should look at our options and see-"
Robin was interrupted when Chrom slammed his fist onto the table, causing the whole room to go silent as all eyes were focused on him, "Shepherds, we march to Plegia!"
"Well...That's certainly one option," Basilio said, "But maybe it's better that we don't have royalty marching to their own death?"
"I don't give a damn, Basilio! Gangrel's gone too far this time! I won't allow him to sentence my sister to death!"
Robin stood up, "We're not saying to do nothing, Chrom. Only that we act rationally to the situation. Knowing Gangrel, you marching up to his front door is most likely what he wants since he's after the Fire Emblem. I know I'll think of something Chrom, I promise. I will do everything in my power to save her!"
Chrom sighed, "I'm sorry, Robin."
"Don't apologize, Chrom. Believe it or not, I'm angry as well. Gangrel won't get away with this!"
Basilio laughed, "You don't hesitate or mince your words! Either that makes you a genius or a fool. I'll pray it is the former, for all our sakes."
"I'll need a rough sketch of where this execution is taking place, that way I'll be able to make a full plan. Flavia, can your spies do that?"
"Consider it done!"
"Cordelia, what of the other pegasus knights?"
"As far as I know, they're most likely being held in Ylisstol palace. They might still occupy it."
Robin nodded, "Basilio, can I ask that you and a small team go to their rescue?"
"Sounds like a party," Basilio smiled, "I think I'll crash it."
"The rest of us will march to Plegia. If we go now, we should get there a few days before the execution."

The barren desert's oppressive heat hit the Shepherds like a freight train after their departure from Ferox. But the sun's rays would not deter the army's march, for their mission was of the upmost importance. After what felt like a few hours, Robin's eyes narrowed. There seemed to be a person there...where they running from something? It looked to be a young girl not too far from Lissa's age with blonde, messy hair as the tips blended to a light green. She wore a tattered white blouse, green skirt and a dark brown cape from what Robin could tell, and it looked like she was running from something. What that something was had then just come into view; an older, muscular man with light brown hair and fitted like a hunter, "Looks like that girl's in trouble," Robin said, "Should we give her a hand?"
"I'd be delighted to," Chrom answered as the group headed towards the direction the two had ran off towards. The girl was standing for a short minute, panting with her hands on her knees, "Did...did I finally lose him?"
"Wait, I say wee lass!" The strange man called out, "You've had misunderstanding!"
"AAAUGH, get away you creep! Leave me alone!!"
The man began to sweat, "Listen, lass! Keep voice down, you give away our location! Very bad!"
"This has been the worst day EVER!" The girl harped on, "My throat's dry, my shoes are full of sand and some WEIRDO is trying to KILL ME!!"
"Oy, Gregor is no weirdo!" The man replied, hurt by the accusation, "Why you no trust me? Why you treat me like scoundrel?"
"Hey, back away from the girl, fiend!" Chrom ordered the man, pointing his sword at him.
"'Fiend'?" Gregor sighed, "You mean Gregor? No sir, I no 'fiend', Gregor is friend!"
"Yeah right, I know a creep when I see one!" Lissa chimed in.
"Gregor only wish to do right thing, but has been constant insults and kicks to groin! Surely you can tell by Gregor's innocent baby-face I mean no harm!"
Robin looked the man up and down, "Yeah, I would not describe your face like that."
"Aw, you break Gregor's heart! You must believe-!"
"There they are!" A distant voice called out, "Kill that traitor and bring back the girl!"
"You see now?" Gregor sighed, "They now be attacking us! No time for argue! Gregor must prove good intentions in battle!"
"Gods, this is making my head hurt," Chrom sighed, "Alright, uhhh, Gregor was it? We'll help you protect the girl, but don't try anything funny."
"Thank Naga, finally!" the girl sighed, her pointy ears now more noticeable to Robin. Was she human? or perhaps some other race? No matter now, as there was a battle to be fought!

As Robin fought off her third attacker, she began to realize how weirdly similar they were to the assassins that had attacked the castle two weeks prior. She pointed this out to Chrom, who nodded, "I thought so too, maybe they're a band of mercenaries? I mean, a large band of mercenaries, but still. Wouldn't be too uncommon, considering the legends of Tellius."
"Sounds interesting," Robin answered, parrying her attacker's next strike before blasting him down with fire, "I'd have to take a look for that once we get back to Ylisstol."
"I don't think...these are...mercenaries, milord!" Frederick joined in, speaking between his strikes and blocks, "They could...very well...be the Grimleal," as his sentence ended, his lance did the same with the warrior he was battling.
"Grimleal?" Robin asked.
"Worshippers of the fell dragon, Grima," Chrom said, "I'd heard tales of them, I thought they were all killed after the war..."
"Perhaps there were survivors," Frederick suggested, 'Wouldn't be the most surprising thing to happen now, after all."
"No it would not," Chrom said, not noticing the foe behind him, readying his knife to gut him like a fish when out of nowhere, there came a shout: "It's Gregor time!" Gregor stabbed Chrom's would-be attacker before he had a chance to even blink while the girl followed closely behind him, "You believe Gregor now, yes?"
"Well, considering you saved my life, I suppose I must, you have my thanks."
"Gregor just doing job...Though Gregor don't have job now," Gregor said as he charged off without further elaboration as the group continued fighting.

Gregor found himself fighting against three mages, being hit by spells as he charged and took them down one after another. Gregor began to start to pant, the pain from his wounds and his fatigue starting to take their toll as he saw a shriveled old man in black robes with purple straps approaching approaching, "Gregor, you will pay for your treachery to the God of Annihilation!"
"Gregor don't worship Fell Dragon anyway, no need to care for what he thinks." Gregor knew he couldn't keep this up for much longer. He was in no condition to continue fighting like this. But he also knew he couldn't let the girl he risked his like for die now. He knew what he had to do. Gregor then charged the man as he let out a blast of dark magic, knocking him to the ground. "Gregor!" the girl then ran up to the man has he lay there.
"Do not weep for me, lass. Gregor knew...what would happened if he stab former employers...You must run now. Live good life...stay out of trouble, yes?"
"I-I can't just leave you here!" the girl said with tears streaming down her face, "You've been one of the only people to truly show me genuine kindness and I repaid you with hurting you and calling you names! I've no right to let you die now!"
"I told you, no tears. don't make Gregor's sacrifice for naught...please, run now."
The old man began laughing, slowly approaching the two, "Ah, isn't this just precious. Perhaps if I rip out your heart right here and now, the girl will be too broken to even comply."
The girl then ran in front of Gregor and took out a green gemstone, "Get back! I won't let you hurt him!"
"And what is a child such as yourself going to do? That stone is no match for my magic, fool!"
"I said...Get...Away...FROM HIM!!" The girl was then enveloped in a golden glow as Gregor and the man looked on in astonishment.

As Robin finished off another mage, she turned to see a blinding, yellow and green light as a dragon of similar color appeared! "Holy shit, what is that!?"
"A-A dragon?" Frederick sputtered, "B-But they've all gone extinct! Unless..." The dragon then let out a blast of ice on the poor old man was enveloped by it. Then, the dragon landed on the ground and glowed a soft yellow before reverting back to the girl that they were trying to rescue.
"A Manakete!" Chrom said with amazement, "I never thought I'd ever see one with my own two eyes."
Robin still stared in shock, "You mean there are people who can just turn into dragons like that!?"
"Yeah, a few even supported the Hero-King Marth in his crusade, but almost all of them were thought to have gone extinct just before the time of the First Exalt." Chrom then walked over to the girl and saw her by the side of Gregor, "Frederick, find Lissa and Maribelle. We cannot allow this man to die!"
"Understood milord," Frederick said as he ran off.
"This has to be one of the worst days of my life!" The girl cried.
"Hey now, bad men are all dead now, yes?" Gregor said weakly.
The girl then nodded her head, "You're right about that, I guess...And I'm so very sorry about all the things I did to you earlier. I just get nervous about...you know, people out of my age group."
"Gregor probably closer to your age group than any of others here," he retorted, laughing as Frederick returned with Maribelle and Lissa.
Chrom nodded, "I almost forgot about the Manakete's incredibly long life span. If you don't mind me asking, how old are you anyway?"
The girl then hesitated, "Abouuuut...1700? I think? I kinda just stopped counting the years after a while. But hey, no wrinkles!"
Chrom was impressed by the figure the girl had given him, "Well, you both seem very capable in a fight. Gregor, was it? Are you a sellsword?"
Gregor then looked up, "Indeed, Gregor is very swell sword!"
"That's not what I...look, what would it cost me to ask for your service?"
"Considering what you do for Gregor and girl here, free of charge! I will be looking forward to assisting you greatly, yes?"
"Thank you Gregor," Chrom said, "And what about you? I know you're still quite young but we could use your power in our coming battle, miss..."
"Nowi," the girl answered, "and why the heck not? Not like I got anywhere else to go but back to the auction block..."
"Auction block? As in like...slavery!?" Lissa asked, horrified.
"It was the worst! My previous captors had me wear weird outfits and had me do tricks! I think them selling me to those cultists was the only good thing they did for me. And that's saying something!"
"That's terrible! Where are these scumbags now? I'll make em pay!"
"Any foe of yours is a foe of mine, darling!" Maribelle chimed in, "Just say the word!"
"Eh, I'm over it now," Nowi said, "Not like they can really do anything to me now. Though I'm not opposed to the idea of getting payback..."
"Alright, then it's settled," Chrom said, "Welcome to the Shepherds, you two. Maribelle, for the time being, Gregor will need to ride on your horse."
"What? Why!?"
"Well, you are a healer, so you should be able to heal him as we march."
Maribelle sighed as she and Lissa helped Gregor to her steed as the group began their march once more. Just hang in there, Emm, Chrom thought, we're on our way.

Nightfall had come quite quickly tonight as Robin studied over the rough sketch she was given just a few hours prior. Nothing she seemed to think of made sense considering the surroundings. She had received word from Basilio that the Pegasus knights were freed and on their way. They would arrive three days before the execution was to take place. Their best bet was to ground any fliers present on that day. A difficult task, considering she, Ricken, Miriel, Virion and Nowi were the only ones with the necessary range to take them out as well. Although Flavia's army did have a few archers, not a whole lot would be present with them. Their task was to stop or slow down enemy reinforcements. She then sighed and got up from her table as she exited her tent to walk around. One week. She had only one week to come up with a plan. The cold air was a nice refresher from the unbearable heat of the morning, but it was still pretty chilly. She then walked over to a small fire pit, grabbed a few logs and set them up, lighting them with a fire spell as she sat. Perhaps this break was just what she needed to clear her head. The atmosphere of that night felt so very calming, that Robin almost forgot she was at war. Hopefully when it was all over, she could perhaps just settle down. As for where, Robin had no idea. Perhaps Ylisstol. Maybe working at a library. Yeah, that would be nice. "Robin? What're you doing out here?"
Robin then turned to see Chrom standing there, "Oh, nothing...just taking a break from...everything."
"You don't mind if I sit here do you?"
"Not at all." Chrom then sat beside Robin as they both stared into the fire, the deafening silence taking over. The silence was killing her, so Robin decided to break it, "Still dueling with unpleasant thoughts?"
Chrom was quiet for a minute before answering, "I'm just...scared I guess. I don't want Emm to die, you know? She's the kindest person I've ever known. She took care of me and Lissa for so long. I barely remember my mother well. A few splotches of her here and there, but mostly...Whenever I think of her, usually I just picture Emm. This whole mess is my fault, Robin. Had I kept my temper in check, perhaps she could have settled things peacefully back then. I can't bear to see her die because of my screw-up."
Robin just stared at the fire, "You know, I still feel guilty about that day too."
"How come?"
"When I snapped at you. I fear that because of what I said, I think I caused those feelings of yours. If I could take it back, I would...Chrom, there are no words I can truly use to express how sorry I am for that."
Chrom shook his head, "It's not your fault, Robin. If anything, I think I needed that. I think I've been a lot less...reckless."
"I mean, I've certainly noticed that," Robin said, causing the two to laugh. As their eyes finally met. Both seemed slightly uncomfortable by this act, but neither seemed to want to back out, "So, do you...have anywhere to go once this is all over," Chrom asked.
"N-No, not really," Robin answered nervously, I-I mean, I kinda have an idea, but...nothing really solid when it comes to like a job...or somewhere to live."
"Well, the castle has a few spare bedrooms. You can stay in one...I mean, if you don't have anywhere to go, of course! I-If that's ok with you I mean..."
"Actually...Yeah, that-that would be nice. We could still see each other around still...That'd be nice..."
"Yeah, I-I'd like that too..." The two seemed to be inching closer. Their faces became redder the closer they got. Whatever this force connecting them was...it was terrfiying for the both of them, and yet...they didn't seem to pull away from each other. The two then held each other in an intimate embrace and they nearly connected...When Robin quickly pulled away, "I-I'm sorry, I have to go!"
"Robin, wait! I-"
"I-It's getting late, I-I'm delirious from the...lack of sleep, I should go to sleep. Now!" Robin then ran back to her tent as Chrom tried calling for her once more. She did not respond as she disappeared back into the night.

Robin crashed into her tent, and pulled its entrance shut as her heart pounded in her chest. What had happened then, it was terrifying. But it was what I wanted! Why did I run from it? Why didn't I embrace what was to happen!? Gods, why do I do this to myself!?! She then marched over to her desk and wiped everything from on top of it in a fit of frustration and repeatedly pounded her fist on it. She had luckily set her tent up a small distance away from the others, otherwise she would have most likely woken someone. She couldn't bear for someone to witness her like this. Robin looked down at her now barren desk. I hate this. I hate this war. I hate my feelings! I hate everything that has happened to me in the past few weeks! But, there was one thing she hated the most of all, right then and there as teardrops began to stain her desk. I-I hate myself... She buried her head in her arms and began to sob. What a fool I was. I hate myself so much...and Chrom probably hates me too. She then fell atop her sleeping bag, her tears continuing to flow as she slipped into a dreamless slumber.

Chapter Text

"So, not only can you not confirm the presence of Prince Chrom, but also if they possess the Fire Emblem?"
The soldier quivered as he stood before Aversa and Gangrel in the Plegian throne room, draped in purple and black carpets and gold-colored walls, "P-Please forgive me, Lady Aversa! The dreadful sandstorm last night made it hard for any of my men to see! Their number is also difficult to ascertain! I suspect at least twenty or so...At least from what I can tell!"
Aversa chuckled as she approached the soldier, "Then perhaps, you should've gotten closer...Perhaps I can give you a demonstration, captain..." As Aversa had gotten close enough, she stabbed the soldier with a knife as the dark magic she channeled into it began to melt the poor soldier as he started to panic, "N-No, please! I'm sorry! I-" The soldier's sentence was cut off as his body became a black sludge on the ground as Aversa's wicked grin spread across her face, "Apology accepted, my dear..."
"Y'know, you really should at least keep some of them alive for when the prince comes," Gangrel said, "Though I must admit, seeing someone turn into goop like that is rather entertaining. Maybe I should get you to kill the Exalt."
"Forgive me for questioning you milord, but can you be sure that the prince comes this way?"
"Two things, One: You have every right to question me, hell sometimes I even question myself sometimes! And two: Idiots like that princeling won't put rational sense over the ones they hold oh so dear to their heart. He'll come alright, dragging that Emblem that I will soon rip from his lifeless body after slaughtering everyone he holds dear as he watches before my blade takes his head! Oh, his dear old dad'll be so jealous when I'm through with him..."

Chrom took a deep breath as he stood outside Robin's tent. Originally what he planned to do was to apologize for last night and beg for Robin to remain friends, but there was something that had come up. Pull yourself together! It's Robin! She's your friend, she'll understand. "Uhh, hey Robin can I come in?"
"Chrom? Yeah, sure." Chrom then entered as he saw Robin at her desk, "Hey, I need to talk to you about something."
Robin froze for a second before responding, "What about?"
"We've got a visitor and she's asking to see you specifically."
Robin then turned to face Chrom as she avoided his eyes, "Basilio? He's here early..."
"It's...a bit more complicated, you'll wanna see for yourself. Frederick and our visitor are waiting for us."
"Ok, lead the way." Chrom led Robin, all the while the awkward silence were crushing them internally. They didn't know if they should break it, both fearing saying something wrong. As the two approached, they saw Frederick, Gaius and a black-haired woman with dark eyes, pale skin and wearing black and gold robes. The three looked up and the mysterious woman's face seemed to light up upon seeing Robin, leering as if she were a snake and Robin a helpless rat, "Hello, you...wished to see me?"
"I've heard many things about you, Robin. I was told you were quite unique, but seeing you in person...You're quite enchanting."
"Excuse me?"
"I apologize if I seem rude. I'm not exactly a...people person. I am called Tharja, it is definitely a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Robin felt uncomfortable by the whole interaction. As far as she could tell, Tharja was clearly hitting on her...despite the fact they knew each other for a total of two minutes, "Right...So Tharja, what brings you here?"
Tharja was just about to answer, but Frederick beat her to the punch, "She's a Plegian Dark Mage claiming she wishes to ally herself with us, as if we could believe a she-devil as herself!"
"Silence, man-thing!" Tharja hissed, "Perhaps I shall curse you to forever walk this earth without so much as ever feeling the touch of a woman, should you ever use such foul words to describe me again!"
"I apologize, Sunshine," Gaius chimed in, "Busybody here tends to be quite...overprotective when it comes to Blue."
"I thought I told you to stop calling me that!"
Gaius shrugged, "Look man, you just called our lovely guest here a 'she-devil', if anything I'd say that's just tit for tat."
"Were it not for milord's trust in you, I'd have your head for such an insolent statement, you hoodlum!"
"Quaking in my boots, Busybody. Just for the record, you're not the only knight whose threatened me like that. And I've always managed to outmaneuver or escape 'em all in the end. I doubt you'll fare any better."
"Perhaps I should end that streak of yours!"
Chrom sighed, "Ok everyone, that's enough. We're getting sidetracked."
"Actually, I wish for them to continue. The orange one is quite entertaining."
"Thank you, Sunshine," Gaius said.
Tharja then turned her attention to Chrom and Robin once more, "I understand your hesitance to trust me...I don't blame you in the slightest. But I do offer valuable insight on say...the positions of each and every soldier present at the execution."
Robin's eyes widened, "That would be extremely valuable!" Tharja's smile, wicked at first glance, but genuine show her appreciation of Robin's joy.
Frederick sighed, "By all means milord, let's recruit the mad king himself to our ranks..."
"I understand your hesitance on a Dark Mage joining our ranks, much less a Plegian one. Err, no offense Tharja."
"Some taken..."
"But we need all the help we can get for this mission. I'd gladly accept any Plegian into our ranks if it got us one step closer to saving Emm."
"Perhaps milord, but know one day, your kind-hearted nature will get you killed."
"That's what you're for, right?"
"Perhaps it is..."

One day. That was all that was left on Robin's deadline. She had completed her plan the previous day thanks to Tharja's intel...Though she could do without her standing ominously from a distance or watching her sleep. She looked out upon the sea of people before her. She was admittedly intimidated, but after a deep breath, and began to speak, "Alright, everyone. Tomorrow is the day of Plegia's attempt to execute the Exalt. We cannot allow this to happen. Fortunately, thanks to the information given to us by a Plegian defector, I was able to come up with what I believe to be the best course of action." Robin then placed her map on a large board for all to see as she began pointing to it, "This is the area where the execution is to take place. As you all can see, there are quite a lot of soldiers here. For this to work, I will need to divide our forces accordingly. Basilio, you and your men will be stationed around the perimeter. No one gets it, no one gets out."
"Sounds like a party," Basilio said, smirking, "And I intend to party hard!"
"Chrom, Vaike, Gaius, Frederick, Stahl, Sully, Kellam, Gregor, Lissa and a small portion of Feroxi troops will advance through the enemy forces. Once they take out the commander and all of the archers, I will signal Phila and her Pegasus knights to move in."
"I will lay down my life if it means saving Her Grace," Phila said with determination.
"Meanwhile Sumia, Cordelia, Miriel, Ricken, Virion, Nowi, Tharja, Maribelle and I will handle any of their wyvern riders. Flavia, can I trust you to take out the executioner?"
"Never missed a target throwin an axe," Flaiva replied, "Don't plan on ending that streak anytime soon!"
Robin nodded, "Whatever happens, know that it was an honor bonding with and fighting alongside you." Robin then walked off the makeshift stage as the crowd dispersed to do spend the day as they wished. Some were training, some were socializing. This would be the last day for any sort of leisure before their mission. Robin planned to spend it in her tent. Away from everyone. Away from him. After that night, they hadn't spoken to each other unless it was absolutely necessary. She sat at her desk as she just stared blankly at it. She sighed as she began to think aloud, "Of course you want to tell him how you really feel, but can you? You're his tactician! You can't let your feelings get in the way of your duties to this army. And that's also not taking into account the fact he's the prince and I'm just some girl. What could I even offer him that some fancy noble couldn't?" Robin then planted her face upon her desk, "Gods, I'm such a pathetic mess..." A sneeze startled her as she fell from her chair, ass first as she turned to see the source of the noise to see Kellam standing in the entrance to her tent, "Oh, K-Kellam, you startled me. What brings you here?"
"I uh, noticed you were being a bit weird, since the other day, so I guess I was worried."
Robin then felt a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach, "How...long have you been standing there for?"
"Long enough." Robin then buried her face in her hands in embarrassment. To be caught in a state like this was possibly one of the worst things that could've happened to her. "You...wanna talk about it?"
Robin then gained a small amount of courage to face him, "As long as you don't tell a soul."
"My lips are sealed. As they usually are..." Kellam then sat on the floor as Robin joined him. Robin took a deep breath as she started, "Well, I guess you already know that I...have feelings for Chrom. And it just...terrifies me. Can you blame me? He's the crown prince and I.. have nothing I could even offer to him if I ever did confess. I'd be laughed out of Archanea by everyone and their mothers. Worse still, I'm his tactician! I can't allow any personal feelings to get in the way of me ensuring I can protect as many lives as I can! It...would be improper of me to pursue Chrom as I am, some fool girl with delusions of grandeur."
Kellam nodded, "Honestly, I wouldn't mind. I mean, you both got lives outside of this war after all. And as for social standing stuffs, it's all a buncha baloney. The vast majority of us Shepherds are of a lower class than him and he still makes time to hang out with all of us...despite the fact he sometimes forgets I'm even there. So Chrom dating a commoner? I could definitely see that. Maybe the only one who is against it is just...yourself."
"Maybe...you're right. Thanks, Kellam."
"Always happy to listen! And sorry for barging in on you. I'm heading off now, gotta get some training in. I'll see you around." Kellam then left as Robin remained sitting there, alone with her thoughts. What did she even know about real love? She couldn't even remember anything past the months since Chrom found her. Perhaps for the first time since she could remember, she didn't know what she should do next.

Chrom found himself on the ground once more as Vaike's axe was pointed to his chest. He then removed his weapons from its position and helped Chrom back to his feet, "Well, looks like you win again, Vaike."
Vaike scoffed, "Is the Vaike a joke to you!?"
"Pardon?"
"The Vaike knows when someone's holding out on him! And that's what you've been doing for the last six matches! What's goin on, man!? Normally, Teach'd have a harder time wipin' the floor with you!!"
"It's nothing, man..."
"Nothing my ass!" Vaike retorted, "If somethin's botherin' you, I'm here to for ya, man."
Chrom sighed, "I dunno... I'm not sure if you'd understand."
"Fine, whatever man. Until you've sorted out whatever it is that's got you like this, the Vaike shall take his business elsewhere." Vaike then walked off in a huff as Chrom just stood there. He was such an idiot. Small wonder Robin seemed to hate him...Maybe that's why she ran off the other night...Chrom looked up to see the sun still in the sky. Great, it was only noon and he already wanted to sleep the rest of the day away. Chrom then returned to his tent and just sat right in the middle of it. Maybe some alone time could help him to clear his mind. He then took a deep breath and thought about his next move. He'd apologize to her and tell her how much he values their friendship and they should forget about it! Who was he kidding? He'd just make an even bigger fool of himself. Well, he'd worry about it after he saved Emm. Perhaps after that stressor, he could focus on mending his friendship then. As he was lost in thought, Lissa barged into his tent, causing him to turn and look at her, "Vaike told me you were feeling down. Still thinking about Emm?"
"Kinda," Chrom answered vaguely, "But there is something...else on my mind."
"You wanna talk about it?"
"You'd just laugh at me..."
"C'mon, it can't be that bad!"
Chrom sighed, "Alright, fine. You win, but you have to promise me what I tell you does not leave this tent, understood?"
Lissa looked at him with confusion, "Is it that embarrassing?"
"Lissa!"
"Fine, fine. I swear upon the Hero-King's honor. There, happy now?"
"Do you remember two nights ago when you saw me looking like a 'puppy denied second dinner'?"
Lissa shrugged, "Kinda? Why?"
"Well that night, Robin and I...we talked around the campfire about stuff. About life in general. Then...I dunno, we-"
"Oh my Gods, you two kissed!" Lissa interrupted, giddy like a child in a sweetshop, "Spill everything, I need the deets man!"
"H-Hey, keep it down!" Chrom said, panicking, "A-And we didn't kiss. Well, almost didn't."
"Define 'almost'."
Chrom shrugged, "Well, she..as we were...going to do that, she...I guess she got spooked ore something, I dunno but...she ran off."
"Ran off!?" Lissa said in astonishment, "Why!?"
"I-I don't know...I just...I really hope I didn't screw up our friendship. Do you...think that I did?"
Lissa pondered, "I couldn't tell you that. I guess...maybe the thought of being with you like that...maybe it scared her. She doesn't have anyone else but us. The Shepherds, I mean. She's probably just scared of losing that...I guess."
"How could she come to that conclusion?"
"Well, as far as we know, she has no noble standing. The council would surely laugh her away."
Chrom sighed, Lissa had a point about that, "But still, that would not matter to me in the slightest. She's a steadfast ally and friend. The council can keep their old ways!"
"Sounds like you see Robin as more than just a friend with a statement like that."
"Lissa, for the last time-!"
Lissa pressed her finger to his lips, "Chrom, shut your mouth and use your head for once! I'm not asking about the both of you, but you specifically. How do you truly feel about Robin? Do you love her?"
Chrom, although a bit annoyed, did as instructed. And as he thought back, he realized how he had felt about Robin. Possibly ever since the day he, Lissa and Frederick found her. To when he had charged recklessly against that wyvern general. Heck, even outside of combat, he'd find his mind drifting towards her! The more he thought, the more it frightened him. He had always enjoyed the time they spent together, both good and bad. How even when things seemed hopeless, she would be there to help him every step of the way. Her loyalty, her kindness, just...everything about her. There was no doubt in his mind what the answer to that question was: "Yes. Yes, I do..."
Lissa smiled, "Well, then I think you should just tell her that. And if she doesn't feel the same, that you would like to remain friends. I bet you'd feel a lot better."
"Yeah, I'll do that. Once we save Emm first though."
"You can't put it off forever, ya know!" Lissa said as she left Chrom to his thoughts. She was right. But he had no idea how to go about it. At least, after they saved the Exalt, it would give him some time to think of something.

Today was the day. All their training. All of their preparations. Now was the time to see the fruits of their labor. Robin placed three tomes with different colors into her cloak and sheathed her sword on her hip. She looked at her desk as she just stood there solemnly. It would be the last time to see it until after their daring rescue of Emmeryn. Basilio arranged a caravan that would pack all of their things and quickly depart just before the skirmish. Despite how nervous she was, her fears that something would go horribly wrong, she felt calm. Perhaps her overwhelming emotions were just so much that they just numbed her. She then thought of Chrom. He was an idiot, yes but...he was the kindest person she had ever met. She couldn't deny these feelings any longer. They needed to be released, whether it was through combat or...Well, this was no time to be thinking about that now. She took a deep breath. They would save Emmeryn. They would escape Plegia all before the forecasted storm later today. Robin then turned to see Lissa enter, "Are you doing alright? We're ready for you, ya know."
"Yeah, just...needed a moment," Robin answered, following Lissa as they left the tent. I will not allow anyone to die today. Not just for him, but for everyone I love. Once all is said and done, I shall serve the whims of my heart.

Chrom placed Flachion into its scabbard and equipped it to his belt, alongside the rapier upon his back. He reached into his pocket and pulled Marth's ring out, observing it by the chain. I've no clue who you may be but...I feel strangely compelled to do this for your sake as well. While you may not be here in body, please fight with me in spirit. He placed the ring back into his pocket as he picked up the Fire Emblem. It was a shield, may as well put it to use. As he lifted it, he heard a soft clink. Chrom looked down to see what had fallen. A ring. Not just any ring, Chrom realized, staring at it intently. It was tradition that when a Ylissean male was born, a ring fashioned with his birthstone was to be made so that one day, he could use it to proclaim his love to his future spouse. Why was it here? Did Emm know...about his feelings? His grip then tightened around the ring before safely storing it alongside the other. I know the battle ahead will be frightening, but the thought of that task...it scares me more. Emm did always tell me to follow my heart, so...I suppose I shall. Once this war ends, I will ask for Robin's hand. If she rejects me, I shall take it in stride. I value our bond too much to ruin it over some measly feelings. And I hope she, too, would feel the same. Chrom then equipped the Fire Emblem to his left arm as he exited his tent. Soon, Emm. I promise I will save you. Even if it costs me my life...I will ensure you are to safely return to the people of Ylisse.

Emmeryn peered down the cliff she found herself upon. From what she could tell, she was about sixty feet in the air as her executioner marched her forth with is axe. There was nothing she could do now. Her hands were bound behind her, and even though her legs were not, if she were to try something, that axe would reach her before she could take advantage of that opening. She had no choice but to wait. To wait and pray for her brother's rescue. She then looked down as she heard Gangrel's maniacal cackle as he spoke, "Ladies, gentlemen, everyone else in between, I welcome you all to a most spectacular spectacle! For those of you too young to remember this wench's crimes or have gone senile, allow me to give a quick refresher: This harlot's father is the one responsible for the slaughter of hundreds, if not thousands of Plegian lives! Men, women, children. Even horses! For ten long years we suffered at the hands of those savages and once they finally withdraw, what do they compensate us with? Fuck all, that's what! While the good people of this nation were left to wither away into nothingness, those savages got return to their cushy lives and now expect us to come together with them and sing 'Kumbaya' on the false pretense of 'wanting peace'. Well if these so-called peace lovers want it that badly, then it's time that they answer for their desecration of our home! Now, I'm not one to do something as rash as this without the input of my loyal subjects, so I ask you all now: What is our verdict!?
The people below began chanting, their screams echoing from beneath the cliff "GUILTY! GUILTY! GUILTY!"
"Ahhh, music to my ears," Gangrel said, "And now that we have our verdict, we shall now have our sentence." Her turned to face where Emmeryn was as the two made eye contact, "Exalt Emmeryn. For your nation's crimes against my own. For every last one of my comrades that were needlessly slaughtered in the name of your twisted views of 'justice'. I, King Gangrel, sentence you to death via axe to the ass! Executioner, let's give these people a show now, shall we!?" The executioner nodded as he raised his axe as Emmeryn prepared for the inevitable...when suddenly, a hand axe struck her killer, causing him to fall from the cliff. Grangrel then grinned even more, "Well, right on schedule..."

"That got his attention, but I bet it also got the attention of all the soldiers," Flavia said, pulling out another axe.
Chrom nodded, "Then let's move! Once those archers and wyvern riders are down, Phila and the knights can rescue Emm! Everyone, move out!" Chrom led his portion of the army into the desert as they fought off wave after wave of soldiers. Chrom's anger fueled each and every one of his strikes as he quickly dispatched soldier after soldier with no regard to his own body. A wyvern rider was just about to take him down from above but Frederick quicky intercepted upon his horse and struck the beast with his spear, causing it to roar in pain as it knocked its rider off. Stahl, Sully, and Lon'qu fared similarly with how quickly the archers fell to their weapons. As they neared the site of the execution, a blonde woman ran up to the group, long blonde hair and light-green robes stained with blood, wielding an axe in similar condition, "Prince Chrom, praise be to Naga I've found you!"
"A cleric?" Chrom asked confused as he kicked down another one of his foes, "What're you doing here?"
"We were dispatched by the Church of Naga to aid the Exalt and her kin."
"'We? There's more of you here?"
"There were, but I fear we were caught in an ambush. I was the only one who survived the attack."
"Well, having a cleric on our side could prove helpful, especially if you can fight. What's your name?"
"Err, Libra sire," Libra said, seemingly uncomfortable, "And...I-I'm a man...Women are clerics sire, so I'm a Priest...Well, technically a war monk, but I doubt now's the time to be splitting hairs."
"Oh! My apologies, Libra! It's just that, uhh...well, this is awkward."
"It's quite alright sire, it happens quite frequently so I'm used to it now." With Libra in tow, the group cut through as many soldiers as they could. Kellam charged a much smaller soldier with his shield and knocked him to the ground as Panne jumped from behind him, transformed and then knocked another soldier from atop his horse before charging off to take down two spellcasters, her speed enough to disorient them as she took them down as well. Gregor and Donnel teamed up to take down three soldiers together before reconvening with Chrom as they held their position. "Everyone, split up!" Chrom ordered, "We'll be less of a target for them individually!" Everyone followed his orders as they all engaged seperate troops. Chrom then found himself hacking through three more with frightening ease. Was he normally this efficient? It mattered not now as he turned to dodge an oncoming opponent's axe, kicking the weapon out of it's owner's hands then cutting him down, "Lissa, c'mon! Emm's just over there!"
"Yeah, let's go save our sister!" They ran towards the execution site as they met a heavily armored gray-haired man who looked too old to even be out of bed now, let alone in a warzone standing in their way. He then pointed his spear towards Chrom, a determined look on his face, "My name is Campari, First Lieutenant of the Plegian Guard. Your war ravaged my home and now it is your Exalt's sacrifice that will drown out my fallen comrades' screams for justice! I will not allow you to rescue her, Ylissean scum!"
Chrom drew Flachion and pointed back at him in a similar manner, "I don't give a damn who you are, get out of my way geezer or I will cut you down!"
"Quite the arrogant statement from a youngster such as yourself," Campari said, moving his spear to his side, "Perhaps I shall be the one who beats some manners into you!" Campari then charged as Chrom did the same, meeting in the middle they swung at each other as their weapons met in the center, struggling to gain dominance over the other.

"Don't let up! We've almost taken them down!" Robin shouted as she released a powerful wind spell to knock her fifth wyvern rider to the ground as two more tried to attack her from both sides, only to be met with Virion's arrows and Tharja's black magic taking them down faster than lightning. Cordelia and Sumia double-teamed one rider, slashing their spears through each of his sides, causing him to fall as the wyvern flew off into the distance. Three more planned to ambush the pair as Nowi, in dragon form swiftly took down two of them with her ice breath as Virion's arrows struck the third's wyvern in the wing membrane, causing it to fall from the sky and onto the sand as he winced, "I'm just glad she isn't here to see that."
"Who?" Ricken asked as another flyer fell to his magic.
"A dear friend of mine, she loves her wyvern to death."
"Cast aside any trivial banter," Miriel interjected, pushing her glasses up, "More wyverns are inbound to our current position!" Virion and Ricken nodded as they redoubled their efforts into holding their foes off. An arrow suddenly struck Robin in the back, causing her to turn and blast the archer that had shot her as Miriel rode up to her, "You ought to be more careful, darling," Maribelle said, quickly removing the arrow as she healed her wound, "It would do Lissa no good if you're dead."
Robin winced at the brief pain, "Thanks Maribelle, I mean that!"
"Thank me later, you've got oversized lizards to fry!" Robin then nodded as another wyvern was blasted by her fire magic. Just a few more for them to get rid of and then they could save the Exalt! A wyvern descended upon Robin, scooping her up with its talons and flew higher and higher. At the altitude they were going towards, Robin guessed their plan was to drop her. Luckily for her, she still had her wind tome as she formed a plan at lightspeed. As the wyvern dropped her, she used her wind magic to propel herself back into the air and onto the back of the beast, shocking it's owner as she blasted him with fire magic, knocking him off. She then took the reigns and descended, striking down more riders as she joined the small force in the air as their enemies began to retreat.

Chrom then jumped back as quickly returned to his position and struck again as Campari's shield repelled the attack, the opening allowing for his spear to stab Chrom in the chest, causing him to quickly withdraw back a bit. For an old man, he was quite skilled. Chrom looked down at his wound before quickly flicking his eyes back up. A flesh wound, nothing more. He'd pay for that. Chrom charged once more as Campari readied for his next attack, but instead of the same attack as before, Chrom quickly spun out of the way of the shield and struck at his armor. The blade only slightly dented it as Chrom was pushed back by his foe's spear. Chrom kept striking at any possible weak points in Campari's armor. But no matter how many times he tried, he could do no damage as Campari's strikes, albeit not at the frequency of his strikes, began to increase in number. Chrom then tried to strike his head, getting as close as he could before needing to strike, only to be repelled by his shield once more, causing him to drop Flachion as Campari threw his spear. Chrom, acting on purely instinct, dodged his weapon just barely as he drew upon the rapier on his back and stabbed at Campari as he blocked it and tackled Chrom to the ground Chrom could not keep the man off of him for much longer as they struggled on the floor as Campari's shield began crushing Chrom's head. His legs were pinned by his opponent's and his arms were too busy propping up his sword to stop the shield from crushing him. "I'll crush that worthless skull of yours!" Campari shouted as he increased the weight of his shield. Chrom then moved his head just before Campari crushed the area where it once was as he punched him in the face, causing the man to get off of him and stagger back as Chrom picked up his rapier, and rammed the hilt against his armor repeatedly, eventually crushing the area near his chest and lungs from the massive dent created. Campari then fell to his knees as his final breath was drawn, "K-Killing me...will only feed...Plegia's...rage..." His body then fell lifelessly as Chrom sheathed his rapier, "Your death will serve as a reminder to never hurt my friends or family again." As he retrieved Flachion, Lissa ran over to him, using her staff to mend his wounds, "A-Are you ok, Chrom?"
"I'll be better once we win," Chrom said coldly. Something about him in that moment terrified Lissa. That look in his eyes. Ever since Chrom had learned of Emmeryn's fate, they were filled with an unfamiliar madness like a wild animal was masquerading as her kind-hearted big brother, "Is something wrong, Lissa?"
"O-Oh nothing," Lissa lied as she put on a happy face, "Just worried about you is all."

Chrom then saw Robin jump from the back of a wyvern as the others regrouped around him, "Chrom, we've taken out all of their flyers and archers. The skies are clear!"
"Then what're you waiting for?" Chrom asked, smiling, "Give the signal!" Robin then shot a massive fireball into the sky, causing Phila and two other pegasus knights to appear just a few moments later, "Prince Chrom, Robin, Basilio's forces can't hold back the reinforcements much longer, we'll need to run immediately once we save Her Grace!"
"Thanks, Phila," Chrom said, "I knew we could count on you."
Phila simply smiled as she flew off into the air. Emmeryn would finally be safe again. Just as she promised in her vow when she was sworn in as captain of the Ylissean Pegasus Knights. And the vow she made many years prior, to remain by her side as her guardian knight after the two successfully killed Emmeryn's father. She was so close, their goal nearly attained as she reached for her beloved! Then suddenly, an arrow had lodged itself in her back, causing her to lose her grip upon her pegasus' reigns as she began to fall, the look of terror upon Emmeryn's face forever burned into her mind as she fell in what she thought was slow-motion. Why? Why had it come to this? Was it her destiny? To always come up short in her friends' time of need? None of this mattered now, not after her body hit the ground with a sickening thump. Your Grace...please...forgive me...

"PHILA!" Chrom called out in shock as several Risen appeared seemingly out of nowhere. One held a bow in a position that looked like it had only been recently fired. Chrom then charged toward it as several more then surrounded him and his allies, stopping him. No...No, this can't be happening! How did they get here!? The two other pegasus knights weren't as lucky as Chrom and the rest of his party, as though they were not encircled by the horde, they were quickly shot down by four more archers. Both riders and their pegasi were not spared from the carnage as they all stared in horror, "No, no this can't be!" Robin panicked, "W-Where did these Risen come from!?"
Chrom looked down in despair, saying what the other had already known to be true, "We...We've lost..." his attention was then drawn upwards to Gangrel as his maniacal laughter demanded his attention, "Well, well, ain't this a reversal of fates!? I knew Aversa was quite gifted, but summoning an undead horde at my command!? That's quite spectacular, don't you agree, dear prince?"
Chrom then looked up to see his sister, her form barely visible from the height she was standing at, "Emm, hold on, I'm-!"
"Not another step, prince!" Gangrel commanded, "Or else your sister gets turned into my newest quiver!"
"You dastardly coward!"
"Ooh, such an insult! What're you gonna do, kill me!? Go ahead, I welcome it! That way you'll have to live with the guilt of your big sister's bloody demise!" Gangrel scanned the crowd as silence enveloped them, "C'mon, doesn't anyone want the honor of being the one who kills the Exalt!?"
Silence.
"Bah, you lot are no fun now! Where's the merry band of brave heroes to save their dear Exalt from her darkest hour!? Hmm!? Well if you're all gonna be like that, fine. There will be no need for bloodshed today. I will return your precious Exalt in pristine condition. However, in exchange, all I ask of you is to bring me the Fire Emblem."
Chrom looked down to see the Fire Emblem just above his shaking hand. He unequipped it and held it in both hands as he turned to face his tactician, "Robin...what do I do?"
"You can't give him the Emblem, Chrom! We can't trust he'll follow through with his end of the bargain."
"I know that! Robin, if I say no, he...he'll kill her! There has to be something! Anything! Please!
"This is getting pathetic," Gangrel said as he shook his head, "I'm giving you till the count of three to make your decision, or it shall be made for you!"
"Robin, you must have something up your sleeve this time!"
"One!"
"I...I'm sorry Chrom. I've no cards left to play. If there is a solution, we have no time to find it."
"Two!"
"Then, I suppose...I have no choice then..."
"Thr-!"
"Gangrel, stop! Stop...You...You win," Chrom then threw down his swords as the others looked on in shock, "I shall personally deliver the Emblem to you in exchange for my sister. If you let us leave with our lives, we promise to never intrude upon your lands again!"
Gangrel sighed, "Y'know, I was kinda hopin you'd start lashing out but I suppose this shall suffice. Very well, I shall be down to claim my prize!"
"No!" Emmeryn called out, "Do not do this, Chrom!"
"Gods, do you ever shut up!?" Gangrel shouted, "Do you want to die!?"
"King Gangrel, is there no hope for you to listen to reason?"
"Ya mean more of your sanctimonious dribble!? No, there are only two sounds I would like to hear now: Either the SPLAT! of your corpse or the clink of the Fire Emblem against my sword! Your days of looking down upon others is over now, unless I have what I want!"
Chrom took a step forward as two Risen soldiers moved to block him while two archers readied their bows, "Emm, I know you don't agree with my call here. MAYBE there will be a day where MAYBE the Fire Emblem will be needed, but right now, Ylisse needs its Exalt. And Lissa and I...we need our sister. Should those times be upon us, I'd rather face them with you. Together. As a family."
"Thank you Chrom, I now know what I must do." What she must do? What was she talking about? "People of Plegia, please heed my words! I know full well of the atrocities of my father! What you all must have suffered through, and for that, you have my most sincere apologies and condolences. This war. It will not bring you the peace you all are deserving of! It will only bring both pain and suffering, not just outside of your borders, but inside them as well! Please, cast off your hatred and do what you must for those you love...as will I!"
Chrom's eyes widened when he realized what was about to happen, "Emm, no...NO!!" He plowed through the Risen, dropping the Fire Emblem as the others quickly dispatched of the Risen before they could retaliate.

Emmeryn looked down upon the land below her. She could barely see any sort of movement below. Save for her brother's mad dash. No reaction...Was I wrong then?
"Emm! Please! Don't do this!"
The air, admittedly a bit too dry for her tastes, was almost soothing to her as she then smiled. This is some torch I am passing to you, Chrom. But I know your friends will guide you and keep you from burning yourself upon it...
"Just hold on a little while longer!"
Emmeryn just smiled, a single tear rolling down her cheek. She had finally made her peace as she walked closer and closer to the edge. Mother, I have nearly forgotten your face after so many years. Perhaps once we are reunited, we could truly get to know each other. And watch over Chrom and Lissa's journeys together with Phila.
"EMMERYN! DON'T GO! YOU CAN'T GO NOW!! PLEASE!!!"
Emmeryn smiled for one last time and closed her eyes, "Dear Naga, please...give them all strength...Guide them all to a brighter future..." And with those final words, she fell. As she plunged to her demise, as Chrom's scream of pure agony became the last thing she would ever hear, she had her last thoughts as all she could do was smile, Chrom. Lissa. And all of my people...Know that I have always loved you...

Chapter Text

Chrom found himself beginning to speed up as he saw his dear sister falling from the sky, like an angel with broken wings. He knew he wouldn't be fast enough to save her. No man was. But he had held on to a small sliver of hope that he could. But alas, he had only made it about a quarter of the way there before his sister had disappeared from his line of sight. Upon realizing this, he began slowing down, eventually stopping as he dropped to his knees, then his hands. No, this...this couldn't be happening...Emmeryn...She...She couldn't be dead! There must've been some kind of contingency that would ensure her survival! Or at least this was a bad dream he would wake from any second now! There had to be some way Emmeryn survived! She may be injured and need his help! So why!? Why couldn't he move? He had to save her! He had to!! He couldn't just...let her die. Not like this...No matter what he told himself in his mind, Chrom knew for certain this was no nightmare. It wasn't something he could just wake from and be relieved it wasn't real. Because it was. Emmeryn was gone...and it was all his fault. So why? Why were there no tears? Was it because he didn't deserve that right? The right to grieve for her demise at his own hands?? Chrom was then snapped out of his daze as Gangrel's laugh began to echo throughout the canyon, "And so ends the reign of Emmeryn I, Ylisse's most exalted! I had always thought death to be an ugly thing, but her fall...It was oh so graceful! Perhaps I should find the corpse and hang it on display in front of my palace?"
Hearing those words, Chrom felt something deep inside of himself. A force he had been unknowingly suppressing since the early days of the war. The pain. The guilt. The grief. It had finally boiled over and was now ready to explode into a new emotion as he let out a scream. A scream filled with unyielding rage and never-ending agony, "DAMN YOU, GANGREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEL!! I'LL RIP OUT YOUR ENTRAILS AND FEED THEM TO THE VULTURES!!!" In a blind rage, Chrom began running toward the cliff as Robin appeared before him, outstretching her arms like a goalie, "Get out of my way, Robin! That bastard needs to have his eyes ripped from his sockets and then force-fed to him! His last moments upon this cruel world need to be a living hell! He must fall by my hands and my hands alone, so stand aside!!"
"Chrom, it's not safe for us to continue staying here! Basilio has informed me his forces are retreating, and so we must do the same."
"Are you saying we let this man live? After EVERYTHING he has done!? Maybe Frederick was right about you! You probably are a Plegian spy! You must've given our plans away to Gangrel! Admit it, traitor!!"
The venom spewed from Chrom's mouth had stung. Robin had never seen him react with such vitriol before...but the pain from his words was nothing in comparison to seeing Chrom like this. Seeing him devolve into a man who had nothing but hatred towards the world that took his loved ones away. But even so, his eyes continued to betray his actions, filled with an indescribable pain. Robin's vision began to blur as she began her next sentence, "Captain, the Feroxi are withdrawing as we speak. If we don't do the same, we are all going to die here. We are awaiting your orders. Please..."
The sight of Robin's tears snapped Chrom back to reality as he realized what he had done, "Robin...I-I'm so sorry, I..." It was now that his own tears began to fall, "Y-You're right, Robin...Tell the others...we're leaving this horrible place."

Rain. Chrom had always hated how dreary it made everything seem. As a child, he was terrified by thunder due to the sound reminding him of his father's harsh tones. At least in those dark times, She would be there to comfort him. But now...there was no comfort. He was barely keeping up with the rest of his troops' quick pace in the deafening downpour. The only sound that seemed to be made, aside from the clacking of shoes and hooves on the rocky terrain. The group eventually came across the Great Plegian Midmire. One of the only places in the kingdom to not be entirely dominated by sand, but rather infertile soil, small hills untraversable to anyone who couldn't fly, and the massive bones of some long dead creature. Chrom felt his pace gradually becoming slower until eventually...he just stopped and stood there. What was the point of all of this? Why did she have to die when she did not possess even a single bad bone in her body? Why couldn't it have been him instead? Robin must've noticed his absence as he saw her running towards him, "Chrom...we gotta hurry."
Chrom didn't say a word.
"Chrom!"
Chrom barely had the strength to even meet her gaze as he uttered something that shook Robin to her core, "...Just let me die, Robin."
"Don't say that! You-You can't mean that!"
"I deserve to meet my end here after everything I've done...So much needless death, and all because I couldn't control my temper."
"Chrom..." Robin then shook her head, "I won't leave you here! I'll drag you back to Ferox myself if I have to!" Robin began tugging at Chrom's arm as he begrudgingly followed. The two then noticed the rest of the party had come to a stop as she approached Basilio, "Why are we stopping?"
"That," Basilio answered, pointing at the Plegian soldiers standing before them.
"Is there any other way?"
Basilio shook his head, "I've arranged the pickup spot here. And besides, turning back now will just cause us to run right back into Gangrel's forces."
"Then we'll fight our way through!"

The weary and battered army drew their weapons as the soldiers parted, revealing their general. A tall, bald man with a scar on his left eye and a black beard, dawning light armor with skulls on his shoulder pads, revealing his muscles, "Ylisseans, hold! I do not wish to fight you! I shall grant you mercy. Surrender now and I will do all that I can to ensure your safety."
"'Surrender?'" Basilio said, scratching his chin, "Sorry pal, not familiar with that one!"
The man shook his head, "Exalt Emmeryn would not have wished for this to come to bloodshed."
Chrom then immediately shot out from behind the troops, Falchion drawn and pure rage upon his face, "How dare you speak as if you knew anything about her!? You savages have no right to speak her name!!"
"The rage you feel is justified, Prince Chrom," the general answered, retaining his calm tone, "I was there when she...delivered that moving speech. Were it not for my duties here, my men and I would personally escort you out of Plegia. But I'm afraid that all I can really do is give you my word that if you surrender then I shall protect you the best that I can!"
"Sorry, but I think we'll take our chances with weapons in hand," Frederick said, twirling his lance.
The general sighed, "So be it. I wish there was another way...but I fear that it is out of my control now. I will at least promise to give you all dignified deaths. And with that, the man walked aways as his men guarded him, they too seemed reluctant to fight. Robin then turned to the troops, "Basilio, you, Flavia and your men head down the left side. Frederick, take Miriel, Vaike, Virion, Cordelia, Stahl, Lon'qu, Sully, Lissa and Chrom and go down the right. Everyone else is with me."

Chrom's reignited anger proved to be quite potent against the soldiers as one after another fell to his sword as Frederick and Lon'qu assisted where they could. Virion and Cordelia could handle any of the fliers as Vaike, Stahl, Sully and Lissa pressed onward through the ones who sought to block their path. Chrom didn't seem to notice the others had left him behind as he continued to kill. Eventually, he found himself surrounded by the corpses of his victims as he just...stood there, looking upon the carnage he had caused. Chrom was disgusted with himself. What right did he have to take their lives when he wasn't even worthy of his own? He then looked up to the sky, hoping there'd be some answer as to what he should do now. Only finding the torrential downpour's roaring response. Chrom then looked down to see Lissa running toward him, "Chrom, c'mon! We've gotta get outta here!"
Chrom then fell to his knees, "How can you of all people want me back? I...I killed her. I killed your sister, Lissa."
"But you didn't! How could you say that? You're talking like we're complete strangers...You're my brother, Chrom!"
"I have no right to call myself that so why would you? I'm nothing more than a blood-soaked savage. When the world asks me a question, I reply with violence. I don't think I can ever truly find peace Lissa, because all I know is to take people away from this word. Fathers, brothers, husbands...what right do I have to such things? Justice? I used to think so but now...I know the only thing I truly deserve is a cruel and bitter end..."
"Stop talking like that!" Lissa shouted, "Stop making yourself sound like you're this...horrible abomination! You are my sweet, dense but caring older brother, Chrom! And...I-I need you more than ever!" Lissa then hugged him tightly, her tears soaking into his clothes, staining it alongside the blood, "C-Call me 'delicate'. Say that I'm a fool dreamer for falling for Marth. Ruffle my hair, even. Anything!...Anything that shows me that...my big brother is still in there...I can't...I can't lose you too...Please..." Lissa's sobs seemed to be the thing that broke through to Chrom as he returned her embrace, "Lissa...I..."
"Awww, ain't that just precious?"
Chrom turned to see a small army standing behind them. Gangrel's main forces! They must've caught up to them. Lissa released her grasp on her brother and stood by his side, drawing her staff. Chrom thought to himself for a moment and removed the Fire Emblem from his arm and handed it to Lissa, "You need to leave. Now."
"Like hell I'm going to leave you here! You're gonna need someone to help you here!"
"Lissa, you're not equipped for a fight like this. Take the Emblem and run...now! I'll be right behind you, I promise!"
Lissa grasped it and looked at the determination upon her brother's face, "If you die here, I won't give you any sort of funeral, understand!?" Chrom nodded as Lissa ran. Chrom looked out as he saw his sister disappear from behind the mountain walls. Chrom then returned his glare upon the army as he drew both Falchion and his rapier as he began to walk towards the army as the lead soldier started laughing, "Do you think we're intimidated by you, boy? Our king's already broken your spirit, so killing you will be a-"
The man didn't get a chance to finish his sentence as Chrom immediately stabbed him through his chest with Falchion, "You don't know when to shut up, do you!?" The strike took the others aback as their comrade slowly died upon his blade. Chrom then kicked the lifeless body off and pointed his sword at the others, "I am going to kill each and every last one of you! And once I have, I won't stop until I remove your king's head from his body and stake it in front of his burning palace!!"

Robin exited her side of the mountains as they encountered the general from before, finding him surrounded by his men as he stepped from behind them. "G-General Mustafa, sir?"
The man turned to his soldier, "What is it lad?"
"Do...Do we have to fight them? It doesn't...seem right to hunt these people down! I will accept any punishment you see fit, sir!"
Mustafa shook his head, "I see...Any one else no longer willing to fight is dismissed. I shall be the one who bears whatever punishment our king sees fit."
"But sir, I can't abandon you like this! Surely you can retreat with us as well!"
"I can't defy the king, for doing so would endanger my wife and child. Any blame that will be put upon you I shall take upon myself, now go!"
"No...I shall not fight for the kingdom, but rather for my loyalty to you!"
Mustafa smiled, "Aye, good lad."
Robin was impressed by the honorability of Mustafa as she looked to his gaze, his eyes full of regret. Gregor drew his sword and was just about to engage when Robin outstretched her hand, "General Mustafa, was it? Might I make a request?"
Mustafa chuckled, "As I've told my men, I cannot let you go without a fight, miss."
Robin then opened her cloak as she removed her tomes, dropping them onto the mud, "I challenge you to a duel until one of us surrenders. No magic, no assistance. If I win, you will let us go."
"And if I win?"
"We shall surrender. Do we have a deal?"
Mustafa nodded, 'Very well, I accept your conditions."
"You sure you can trust Plegian general?" Gregor asked.
Robin nodded, "He's not like the other generals we've fought before, he's...different than the others we've faced before."

Both armies formed a ring between the two as they drew their weapons. Mustafa possessed a hand axe, Robin had the advantage with her sword...but that was only if they were of equal skill. Considering the fact he must've been a general for several years now. Robin, on the other hand, knew she was quite skilled. But how skilled remained a mystery to her. For now, in terms of pure skill, she had to assume that she was at a disadvantage. The two walked the perimeter, not taking their eyes off of each other as they waited for the other to strike. On the third lap, Mustafa charged and struck as Robin blocked. Mustafa quickly redrew and struck again as Robin just barely dodged. His skill...it was definitely worthy of his position. "Impressive," Mustafa observed, "I see you're quite skilled with a blade."
"You're not bad yourself. I might have a hard time keeping up with you."
Mustafa smirked, "I've been swingin' my axe since before you could walk, I would hope that I could tangle with you youngsters." He then swung horozontally at Robin as she barely blocked it once more. Axes were typically more useful when against foes in heavy armor. Just one blow could easily eliminate her ability to fight. But what her sword lacked in raw power, it made up for it in maneuverability and versatility. She then quickly moved herself and her weapon out of the axe's reach as she thrusted at her opponent's open torso. Mustafa jumped back, but not before Robin's blade managed to draw blood. It was only a flesh wound, but it was enough to impress Mustafa again as they began to circle each other once more, "I've never seen such swordplay as yours, how long have you been training?"
"Dunno. A while, I'm guessing."
Mustafa chuckled, "Being a smart aleck, eh? Well, considering you managed to wound me, I'd say you've earned it."
"Believe me, I cannot remember much of my past. All I know is what to do for the future." It was Robin's turn to charge, her swing blocked by Mustafa's axe, catching her by surprise. This opening was then exploited as the axe knocked her blade from her hand as Robin moved out of the way as the axe grazed her right arm. The stinging of the metal cutting her skin hurt like hell, but it was not enough to completely take her down, "You've been disarmed, youngin. It appears I've won."
"Not quite," Robin said, smirking, "I haven't surrendered yet."
"With no weapon, you've got no chance, and you can't use any magic as per our agreement. I wish not to strike you down, but if you do not surrender I fear that I'd not have much choice." Tharja seemed to be charging a blast of dark magic, but Gaius stopped her, "Trust me Sunshine, when Bubbles' got that look on her face, she's clearly got something up her sleeve. Have a little faith, will ya?"
Tharja hesitated, but then nodded as she let go of the magic. Robin then shook her head as Mustafa sighed, "So be it then. I shall ensure you receive a proper burial." Mustafa charged as Robin readied herself. As the axe began to be brought down upon her, Robin quickly dodged to the left. She had noticed that when her opponent swung like that, all the weight was shifted to his right leg. His left however, was just weak enough to where her kick managed to cause him to stumble as she retrieved her weapon. Mustafa quickly recovered as Robin charged him once again. Robin's rapid strikes began to wear him down. His leg wasn't any help either as it began to buckle from the onslaught. Eventually, his leg finally buckled as Robin imbued all her strength into her last swing, knocking him down to the ground as he dropped his axe. He tried to get up and rearm himself as Robin's blade pointed at his neck. Mustafa didn't seem mad or upset at his loss. If anything, he was more amazed at Robin's skill and tactical mind, "Well done, kid. Y-You've bested me. Well, what're you waiting for? Go on, finish it...All I ask is that you at least spare my men." Robin noticed the men beginning to ready their weapons as he shouted, "Don't! She has bested me fair and square! You are to stand down now or I will haunt you from the grave!" The soldiers stopped as he had commanded, looking as if they might cry as Mustafa returned his attention to Robin, "Go on, finish me! That is the only way I shall surrender!" Robin then drew her blade skyward and then swung down with the force of a hurricane as Mustafa closed his eyes, embracing his bitter end...except something was...off. He opened his eyes to the blade mere inches from his head as Robin drew it back and sheathed it, reaching for his hand, "Wh-What are you doing? You want your freedom, don't you!?"
Robin then outstretched her hand, "You don't deserve to die here, General Mustafa. Seeing you inspire your troops like that...It makes me glad to realize not all Plegians are out for our heads."
"B-But if I return to the king, he'll-!"
"Kill your family, I know. But I couldn't live with myself if I took you from your wife and child, but I'd like to ask a favor of you if I may."
"That being?"
"Flee. Flee Plegia with your family and your men. From what I've seen of Gangrel, I doubt he'll be monitoring your actions at all, but rather he is celebrating his so-called victory, so you must flee now!"
Tears began to well in Mustafa's eyes, "Godspeed to you, kind stranger...Men, you heard her! We'll be leaving this godless land come dusk. So use this time to gather your things and bring any of your loved ones with us!" And with that, Mustafa and his men mobilized back the way in which Robin and her forces came. Good luck, Mustafa. I wish you, your family, and your men nothing but peace.

The rain only seemed to come down harder as Flavia and Basilio's forces joined up with Robin and the others, "Good to see you still alive," Basilio said with a smile, "Hopefully our ticket outta here wasn't spotted by those Plegians."
"Khan Basilio!" The group turned to see a pink-haired girl clad in mostly white, "W-When I didn't hear from you, I feared the worst..."
"Takes more than a few measly soldiers to keep this ol' dog down," Basilio said, laughing, "Oh, Robin, this is Olivia. She's the one who's gonna get us outta here."
"It's a pleasure to meet you," Robin said, outstretching her hand as Olivia shook it nervously.
"I-Is everyone ready?" Olivia asked nervously.
Robin shook her head, "We're still waiting on-" She stopped her sentence as Frederick's group came to meet with them as she did a head count. Strange. They were short Lissa and Chrom. Could something have happened to them? Robin then looked in the direction the group came in and saw Lissa running towards them, holding something in her hands. Upon closer inspection, Robin gasped, "Lissa, where's Chrom!?"
Lissa pointed behind her, "Th-There was another group of Plegian soldiers who had been following us. Chrom, he...he stayed behind so I could escape! We have to do something, Robin!" Robin was left stunned by this information. Gods, that idiot! He's gonna get himself killed! "We can't wait much longer if Plegian soliders are on our tail!" Flavia spoke up, "I hate to say it, but we may have to leave Chrom behind..."
"No way!" Lissa yelled, "We can't just leave him here! We have to go back! Please!!"
Robin clenched her fist, "Five minutes."
"What?" Basilio said, turning to her.
"I'm going back for him, just wait five minutes. If we're not back by then, you leave without us, got it!?"
Basilio seemed taken aback by Robin's sudden burst of conviction as he scoffed, "Fine, five minutes but that's it!"
Robin nodded, "Frederick, you're in charge!"
"Robin, wait! It's too dangerous!" Frederick called, but his words came too late as Robin had already run off. The rain didn't stop her. The mud clinging to her boots didn't stop her. She just kept running. Running to save that damned fool prince. Kellam was right, to hell with our roles! I shouldn't have abandoned him now! Damn it all, I've been such a fool! She felt her lungs beginning to give out, their pleas for her to rest ignored as she kept up her pace, determination rising with every step forward, Dammit Chrom, you idiot! You can't die now! Please! I need you! We all do! but I...I love you...I have to at least tell you that! Please! I don't want you to die...please...be alive...

The bodies littering the ground had multiplied exponentially as Chrom fell to one knee. His rapier was broken, its blade lodged in one of these corpses somewhere. Not that it mattered. His body was aching everywhere. His clothes, his hair, his face...all stained by the mixture of his and their blood. How many had he killed? Twenty? Thirty? It hardly mattered now as he looked upon the three remaining soldiers as they began to approach him, "What's the matter, prince!?" one boasted, "All tuckered out from your temper tantrum??"
"ₛₕᵤₜ...ᵤₚ..."
"I'm sorry, what was that?"
"I said...shut your damn mouth!" Chrom used what little strength he had left to charge at the lead soldier, releasing his grip on Falchion as he attempted to punch him in the face...only for the blow to do nothing...His strength...he had used it all up. He continued punching over and over again, but each blow did not build up the necessary force. The soldier then kicked him to the ground as he simply lay there, slowly trying to get up to his knees. Chrom had always wanted to find his limits. Unfortunately for him, he found them at the worst possible time. The soldier raised his blade as he and his comrades began to laugh, "And now, we bear witness to the near extinction of the Exalt's bloodline!" Chrom simply looked down to the ground, ready to accept his fate...he heard the woosh! of the blade as he braced himself for his inevitable demise...except...it didn't come. Chrom had heard the sickening sound of a blade hacking into flesh...so how was he still alive? He looked up to see the soldier looking to his left. Following his gaze, he saw someone laying in the dirt. Someone with white hair and a black cloak...Robin? "Who the hell is this wench?" the soldier asked as he moved towards her. Chrom's eyes widened. No...No, not her! She doesn't deserve to die! He tried to return to his feet, but it was no use. By the time he did, Robin would also be... "Whatever, if you wanna die for this fool, I don't see why I shouldn't deny you that-" his sentence was cut off as Robin let out a feral, inhuman cry as she jumped to her feet and stabbed the man in the chest. Her eyes. Chrom swore that they were glowing a bright red just then...Robin kicked the man's corpse from her blade as she pointed it towards the remaining two, "Leave. Now!"
The soldiers seemed to quiver at this, one of them yelling, "Run! Sh-She's not human!" as they ran for their lives. Chrom slowly returned to his feet as he moved toward Robin, her back to him, "Robin...what're you-?"
"You idiot..."
Chrom was taken aback, "Pardon?"
Robin then turned to face Chrom, her rage overshadowed by the tears flowing from her face, "How many times do I need to tell you that if you die, we lose this war!? I thought nobles of all standings were supposed to be well-educated, but it appears you're an exception! Were you even taking a moment to even think!? What if I found you dead here!? How could I face the others if I dragged your corpse back to them, huh!?! They need you, Chrom! And I-!" Robin's rant ended abruptly as the floor started to come up to meet her.
"Robin!" Chrom caught her just before her body made contact with the ground, holding her in a hug-like position. He then lowered her to examine the damage. A nasty horizontal wound that traversed the majority of her torso, spilling with crimson ichor, "Robin! Y-You're hurt!"
"It's just...a flesh wound..."
"And I'm secretly Plegian!" Chrom retorted as he tore his cape from his back. He then retrieved Robin's sword, holding the blade as he moved the hilt to Robin's face, "Bite down, this may sting a bit." Robin did as Chrom instructed as he tied his cape around her scar. Robin found herself biting down on the hilt harder the more pressure Chrom applied to the wound. Eventually, the makeshift bandage was completed, it's previous ivory tone now stained red, "We'll need Libra to look at this when we get back." Chrom quickly ran to retrieve his sword, sheathing it before returning to Robin, "Please forgive me." Chrom then lifted Robin and maneuvered her to a piggyback position, "Wh-What're you doing? I can still...walk..."
"You're barely in any condition to even stand, let alone walk!" Chrom retorted. Chrom began to slowly walk through the mountainside as Robin had lost all the strength needed to even protest.
"Chrom...please...just leave me behind..."
"You're way too stubborn for your own good," Chrom scoffed, "No way in hell am I gonna leave you behind. Not with that wound you've got..."
Robin sighed, wrapping her arms tighter around him, "Chrom?"
"...Yeah?"
"I'm sorry..."
"For what?"
"I failed you...I failed the Shepherds...and I failed Emmeryn...and Phila...They're dead...because of me..."
"...Don't apologize...You did all that you could...and for that, you have my thanks. Now, only my own shortcomings haunt me..."
"Your only shortcoming is that thick skull of yours, dummy....risking yourself for me."
Chrom snickered, "What kind of general leaves their tactician to die?"
"A stupid one, maybe..."
"Then maybe...I prefer to be stupid. Better that than to be selfish. And besides, you came running back to save me."
Now it was Robin's turn to chuckle, "Then I suppose...we're both fools..." Robin pressed more of her weight onto Chrom as she closed her eyes. Perhaps...falling for him wasn't such a bad thing after all. What he lacked in wit...He more than made up for it with sheer kindness. A kindness she could never truly repay. Perhaps, her whole life was meant to save him from falling today. That would suck...but in the end, she would've done it again a thousand times over...just so she could save him. To be there for him...but now...she unfortunately felt she could accompany him no further...

Frederick and Lissa stared in the direction Robin had left in. Their five minutes were almost up, and they were starting to lose hope, "Th-They're not coming back, are they Frederick?"
"Nonsense!" Frederick responded, "Milord and Robin are quite capable...They...They're coming back, I know it..." Frederick seemed unsure if he even believed his own words. They had to come back...right? Just as Frederick was about to give the order to depart, Lissa shouted, "Look!" Frederick did as Lissa said and saw someone. Whoever they were, they were walking quite slowly. An enemy? No, there's only one of them. If this was an enemy, there'd surely be an army behind them. As the figure drew closer, they recognized him! "M-Milord, is that you!?"
"Frederick?" The figure called out, "Oh thank gods, it's you!"
Frederick ran up to him, a tear rolling down his face, "I-I had feared the worst, milord! I-If you'd have died here...I-!"
"I'll be alright, Frederick. But thanks..." Chrom then turned his attention to Robin, "Didja hear that? We made it! Lissa, Maribelle and Libra'll tend to your wounds! You're gonna be ok, Robin!"
No response.
"Uh hey...Robin? We made it. Y-You can wake up now."
No answer, save the deafening rain.
Chrom's heart began to sink, "R-Robin, hey wake up now! Th-This isn't funny!" A muffled groan as he felt her go limp. Chrom quickly set her down and checked her pulse. She was still alive, but only barely, "Frederick, get the healers. Now!"
"M-Milord?"
Chrom started shaking, "Robin's gonna die if we don't do something now! Please!" Frederick nodded as he ran back to the caravans as Chrom stayed by Robin's side, "Robin, oh gods what have I done!? I-I'm so sorry! Please! Open your eyes! Please! I don't want you to die!!"

Another day had gone by. Chrom had been keeping count ever since they had returned from Plegia to Ferox as he simply lay there in his bed. Fourteen, including today. Fourteen days since her passing and yet...it was another bright, sunshiny day. Not a cloud in the sky. He wished it would rain like it did that day, for there to at least be a sign that the powers that be remembered what was stolen from him. But alas, it seemed as if the world moved on. Not a single pause for her death as he looked toward the ceiling. It was one thing to not pause for his grief...but not stopping for her...It didn't seem right. Worse still, Robin was still in a coma. Libra had said her condition had stabilized and she would live...but he was unable to tell when or even if she would wake. Just thinking about it intensified his guilt. He should be the one on his deathbed. Not Robin. Not her. Not anyone else...Only him. Only he should've had to suffer that day. A knock at the door roused him slightly. He turned his head to see Frederick enter, holding a tray of food, "Milord, I've...brought you some breakfast. You should at least try to eat it this time." Frederick set the tray down as he picked up the one left the other day, its contents remaining untouched and starting to spoil.
Chrom only turned to his side, facing away from him as he gave a simple melancholic answer, "...I'm not hungry."
Frederick sighed, "Milord...may I speak?"
"You've always been allowed to speak freely, Frederick."
Frederick placed the tray gently on the floor and sat on Chrom's bed, "When I had first met Robin...I treated her with such unwarranted suspicion. I feared that one day, I would find her stabbing you in your sleep, But after what she did a fortnight ago...Her courage, her determination to save you in enemy territory...It was genuinely inspiring for me. I know it now, deep in my heart, that Robin is a steadfast companion and while I may not be able to apologize to her in person as of now, I can at least apologize to you for doubting your judgement."
"That's what you're here for. To keep me from screwing up..."
"Too true milord," Frederick said, standing up, "Well...I suppose I've overstayed my welcome. I hope you'll actually get some fresh air today. You've been holed up in here since we got back...And everyone is worried about you. Especially Lissa, as she's also tending to Robin's wounds." Frederick then retook the tray of rotted food and left Chrom alone once more. He had told Frederick that he wasn't hungry, but his stomach's growling depicted a contradictory response as he slowly began eating the food. It was good. Nothing mind-blowing, but enough that he could at least somewhat enjoy it. As Chrom was eating, he began thinking. He couldn't allow for what took place that day to happen ever again. No more lives deserved to be lost to this...meaningless struggle of ego and pride. He knew what he had to do. It was the only thing he could do to save all of those he cared for. The risks were very present to him, but as far as he could tell, there was no way to peacefully end the war otherwise. Chrom would not allow any more bloodshed. No more meaningless death. All that would be left...is the peace his sister had sought after.

Chapter Text

Robin slowly opened her eyes, groaning as a bright light blinded her. Was she...dead? Was this the afterlife? She felt like she was lying down in some sort of bed, draped in its sheets. Did the afterlife even have these sorts of feelings? She outstretched her hand to the air and moved it slowly to block the light as she eventually began opening her eyes more. She saw that her arm was wrapped in bandages...and the fact that her robe was missing. Or at least, one of its sleeves. She then heard something from her left and turned to it. "_______!______ _____!__ _____ ___ ____!!"
Robin squinted, straining to hear what was being said.
"_ee___ __l __at bl___..._ __ou___...W-W_ th____t __u __re-!
Quicken footsteps. As far as Robin could tell, there was another person there. A woman most likely from what she could make out from the voice. It was familiar...But she was unable to fully make it out fully as the footsteps returned to her, Robin turned to face the figure, only seeing a splotchy shape before her.
"I__...__m _o _lad _o__r_ al__e! I wa_ _o...s_ sca___...Sc___e_ y__ __uld _ie! I __u_d'v_ _ev_r forg__en yo_, yo_ j__k!"
Robin's hearing became more clear as she was able to fully recognize the voice! She stared more at the shape that was becoming more and more detailed, "L...Lissa?"
"Were you even listening to me, Robin!?" Lissa yelled, struggling to stop her tears, "How dare you think you can leave us high and dry like this! How would you feel if I almost died, hm!? Maybe then you'd get it, you...you..." Lissa's tears won as she jumped onto the bed and hugged Robin.
A sharp pain from her torso surged through Robin's body as Lissa's weight pressed against her, "Ow! owowowowow!! L-Lissa! That...hurts!
Lissa just as quickly removed herself from Robin, "S-Sorry, I'm just...It's so good to see you back, Robin..."
Robin smiled as she sat upright, the motion taking a lot of strain to do so. She then eventually began to take in her surroundings. As far as she could tell, she was in what looked like a small room in an inn, converted into a makeshift sick room. Strange...it felt as if she had forgotten something. Something important. As she searched the room, looking for an answer, she eventually saw her shirt and robe draped over a chair in a corner opposite to the bed she was in. She then looked down in horror to see her entire chest wrapped in white bandages as the reality of what had happened hit her all at once, "Wh-what happened? Where are we!? How long was I lying here!!?"
"Whoa, hey! Calm down!" Lissa said, Robin's freak out starting to freak her out as well, "W-We're in Ferox now! Flavia had this room in the arena converted so Libra, Maribelle and I could tend to your wounds. Libra did most of the work though. Oh, and after you were stabilized, he taught Maribelle and I some more healing magic!"
Robin nodded, "And...my last question...?"
"Two weeks. Libra says you're lucky to be alive with all that blood you lost...But more importantly, you're back now."
Robin rubbed her head as it started to throb, "Gods I feel like I got hit on the head with a rock..." As she had finally gotten her bearings, she finally remembered! "Lissa, where's Chrom!?" How could she have forgotten something so important!?
"Oh, he's currently in a meeting with everyone else, I'm sure he'll be-" Robin forced herself out of bed and slowly began trying to put her shirt on, but she could barely raise her arms high enough to even put it on, so she instead equipped her robe, hoping her bandages would be enough to cover her, "H-hey, where are you going!? You're still recovering and need rest! I'll just get him when he-! Robin, hey! Wait!"
Robin wasn't even listening to her as she weakly opened the door and exited the room, fueled by determination alone.
"Oh, fine then! But if you get hurt, that'll be on you!" Lissa called back as she followed, shaking her head.

Frederick slammed his fist on the war room's table, "You cannot be serious milord! That's pure madness!"
"What other choice do I have?" Chrom said, shaking his head, "The longer this war draws out, the more it tarnishes everything she ever stood for. I won't stand for more needless bloodshed."
"Listen to your retainer, boy!" Basilio barked, "All surrenderin's gonna do is serve your princely head to Gangrel on a silver platter! Your sister did not die for you to just throw your life away!"
"Don't bring her into this! You've no right to do so!"
Flavia sighed, "I hate to admit it, but Basilio's got a point. Gangrel won't stop even if you do surrender. If you do this, all it'll accomplish is sentencing us all to death!"
"What, do you have any other ideas!?" Chrom snapped, "This war is already lost, just accept that!"
"Chrom, this war is far from over!" Flavia retorted, "I am sorry for your loss, truly I am, but you can't just throw everything away now! You're Ylisse's Exalt now! What would-?"
"What would she say if she were here now? Is that what you were gonna say!? Well she isn't! And it's all my fault! And yet everyone just keeps insisting that it isn't when the reality is that I was the one to reignite this war all because I failed to keep myself in check! I'm hardly a general, much less an Exalt! All I've done is cause suffering to those who I call my allies...and I can't save anyone...I know now that if you all continue to follow me, I will surely lead you all to an early grave..." The room had fallen to complete silence, "Let me do just this one right thing. Allow for me to atone for my sins..." Chrom then turned to face the door as he walked to it, "None of you try to stop me, or I will cut you down." Just as he was about to open the door, it suddenly flung open. Chrom's eyes widened as he saw who was standing there, "You...Has your restless spirit come to haunt me now?"
Robin just stared up at him, meeting his glazed-over gaze as she weakly moved toward him and stumbled as he caught her, "Of all the stupid things I expected you to pull..."
Chrom just left in stunned silence as he felt Robin in his arms. She was no spirit, as it turned out. She was tangible. She was real. "I...I thought that...Oh gods...I'm so sorry, Robin."
"I know words cannot describe what you must be feeling now, but what you're planning to do...That will only make things worse for all of us."
"But I'm nothing like-"
"Chrom, listen to me. Look at me. You don't have to be just like her. All you need to do is fight. Fight for a world she would love to have lived in. Fight for those who believe in you. And no matter what, I'll always be by your side. Both of us aren't nearly half the person your sister was, but together...We can be something she would be proud of."
"B-But what if I'm not worthy of her ideals? What if I just drag you down with me?"
"Then you'll keep at it until you are. And if you fall, I will willingly fall with you. We're friends, aren't we?"
"Yeah!" Nowi chimed in, "If it weren't for you, I probably would be worm food about now!"
You gave me your trust," Tharja added, "And now you have mine...for the time being, of course..."
Lon'qu then stepped forward, "Had you been unworthy, I would have left you long ago."
"It took great courage and charisma to bring us all together, I knew I had such talents. But so do you, it seems," Virion said.
"We all look up to you, Chrom!" Ricken said, "You're our hero!"
Donnel nodded, "Ya helped me wrangle up my, er...uh...pertental or whatnot!"
Chrom released Robin as he turned to his soldiers. No, his companions that had stuck by him through it all, "Y-You'd all still follow me?"
"Hell yeah!" Lissa yelled, "I'm done feeling sorry for myself, it's time to start punchin'!"
"Here, here darling!" Maribelle added, "Our people have suffered long enough from the mad king's cruelty!"
"I would gladly fight and die for House Ylisse!" Stahl said, stepping forward.
Sully joined him, punching her fist into her open palm, "And I would gladly fight and KILL those damn dastards for House Ylisse!"
Libra nodded, "Our hearts echo your desire, milord."
"I won't back down now!" Sumia said, filled with her usual optimism, "I'll stand by you no matter what!"
"I never doubted your leadership for even a second," Cordelia added, "I'd gladly give my life for you."
Vaike drew his axe, "Ol' Teach and his trusty axe are more than willing to dish out some lessons...free of charge!"
"It's abundantly clear that the probabilities do not align favorably in our direction. Logic dictates that we do surrender, but I think just this once, we forego logic," Miriel said, pressing her glasses against her face.
"What the hell," Gaius snickered, "I'm in too deep to back out now, so count me in!"
"How much you pay Gregor?" Panne then elbowed him in the rib as he let out an audible 'oof!', "G-Gregor just joke, ya? Gregor help for zero gold! Honest!"
"Your sister showed me that there are humans who are willing to put aside their differences to help those and expect little to nothing in return. She is a true champion of the taguel people. I will ensure her memory lives on."
"I-I'm here too..." Kellam said.
"You've grown into quite the capable young man, milord. Her Grace would be proud."
Chrom wiped a tear from his eye, "Everyone...Words cannot fathom how grateful I am to you. For all of your support." He then balled his fist, "I will not falter again! The Mad King will answer for this outrage! We march to Plegia once more, while the bastard continues to celebrate his hollow victory!"
Flavia smirked, "There's the Chrom I know and love! Right, let's go give Gangrel a dose of his own vulnerary! Basilio and I will take care of any enemy troops that would reinforce his current army."
Basilio nodded, "Hear that, boy? You get the fun part! You and Robin have quite the knack for kickin' ass and takin' names. I've no doubt in my mind they'll be writing epics about the two of you for ages! Don't let us down now, ya hear?"
"Thanks, Basilio."
"I-If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to come with. I can fight, though I'm not very skilled," Olivia piped up, "The Exalt gave me a kindness once. The least I could do is help wherever I can!"
"Nonsense!" Basilio chimed in, "Don't forget you're one of the finest dancers in all the land! She can inspire soldiers to work twice as hard!"
Olivia started blushing as Chrom smiled, "Well, then we'd be happy to have you! Welcome aboard, Olivia."
"Alright, enough talk! Let's go raise some hell!"

Chrom found himself staring at his ring. Tomorrow would mark the start of their march to Plegia. Chrom didn't scare easily. He had been through so many trials and tribulations that the thought of this final confrontation didn't scare him one bit. But admitting to Robin about his feelings...that was the first time since he was a child that he was truly terrified. Could he even do it? What if she rejected him? What if she already had someone else!? Chrom couldn't bear burning the bridge of their friendship. Not after all they had been through together...Chrom sighed, this was no time for such trivial matters. This whole thing could wait...after the war. "Hey Chrom?"
Chrom jumped, almost dropping his ring as he quickly snatched it and hid it behind his back as he saw Robin behind him, "R-Robin? Hey! Uh, w-what're you doing here?"
"Just wanted to check on you. I know...you're probably still thinking about Emmeryn."
"O-Oh, yeah...just uh...thinking about Emm..." Chrom answered, nervously chuckling, "Do...Do you think she would be proud like Frederick said?"
"I can't say I speak for the dead...But from the time that I knew her, I know that she would always support you no matter what path you chose."
Chrom smiled, "Thank you Robin."
Robin returned the gesture as she looked past him, "You know...I've always liked sunsets."
Chrom turned to see the fantastical display by the blazing orb in the sky, coloring the sky in soft purples and blues with warmer colors lower in the sky, "I never took you for the type to be sentimental about things like this...Not that there's anything wrong with that, I mean!"
"Fair enough, I suppose. But I think the best part is what they mean to me...at least, from what I've gathered from what I can remember."
"And what's that?"
"That no matter what happens during the day, good or bad, there will always be something to look forward to after everything is done."
Chrom nodded, "Never thought about it like that, but...I think you're right." The two just stared at the spectacle for what felt like hours. Just the two of them, not a single word spoken between them. Chrom looked down to his hand inching closer to Robin's as he managed to stop it as he quickly stowed the ring into his pocket once more, "Hey Robin?"
"Yeah?"
"I just want to say I...I'm so lucky to have met you all that time ago and...thank you...for everything."
"Well, if not for you, I'd probably be dead, so I guess that makes us even."
"Well, tomorrow we march back to Plegia. Our...final battle so...If you want to sit out, I'll understand, considering your injury."
"I'll be fine, Chrom. A little scar isn't enough to keep me down. Besides, someone needs to keep you from doing something stupid."
Chrom chuckled, "Alright. If that's the truth, then I'd like nothing more than to fight side by side with you. But...just be sure to take care of yourself as well, alright?"
"Careful now," Robin smirked, elbowing Chrom's arm, "You're talking like we're some married couple." They both laughed together as the sun finally vanished over the horizon, the glorious lightshow coming to an end as they watched. "Well, I'll be off now. So...I'll see you later."
"Y-Yeah. Goodnight, Robin." Chrom watched as Robin departed for her quarters, sighing. He then walked off in the opposite direction as he returned to his own space. I must fight. Fight for the people of all the people of Archanea. Fight for the world Emmeryn would've wanted...And fight so that Robin can see the next sunset...

"The enemy has taken the field, milord," Aversa said as Gangrel sat upon his throne.
"Already? Ha! Perhaps seeing their precious Exalt's fall from grace has finally made them see the light and now they wish to surrender!"
"Not according to our scouts," Aversa replied, shaking her head, "They seem to be in relatively good spirits."
Gangrel scoffed, "Since when do you trust scouts? And even if that is so, they're like cockroaches compared to us. Tough to kill, but totally weak and pathetic! I shall break them with the ease as if breaking wind!"
"My, now that would be a song I would love to hear bards compose."
"This will hardly be worth my time...but I suppose that it'll be somewhat amusing. Especially once I tear that prince's heart out!"
"King Gangrel!"
Gangrel looked up to see a young soldier had run into his royal throne room, panting like a dog, "Can't you see I'm in the middle of something? This had better be important, boy!"
"I-It is sire, I bring dire news! Troops are laying down weapons and deserting their posts en masse! I fear that more than half of our army is no longer willing to fight!"
"WHAT!?" Gangrel yelled out, grabbing the boy by the neck and raising him up, "EXPLAIN!!"
"I-I don't know why, sir! Honest! P-Please, I am but a messenger!"
Gangrel snarled as he threw the boy to the ground as he gasped for air like a fish on the dock, "Well there goes my good mood! If you know what's good for you, you'll leave before I strike you down myself!" The boy nodded quickly as he ran back from where he came. Gangrel sighed, "All I ask is for the slaughter we so rightfully deserve, I swear it's like trying to get an ass to actually listen to you with them..."
"Well, this is certainly a fine mess we're in," Aversa remarked, walking over to Gangrel as she started feeling him up, "But don't fret my king. I shall always be at your side."
"That so?" Gangrel asked as he let Aversa's hands traverse his body. When her hands neared his face, backhanded her, knocking her to the floor as his ring cut into her flesh. Aversa seemed genuinely shocked by the unprovoked assault as her hand moved toward her cheek. After feeling a stinging sensation, her hand recoiled, now shaking and stained red, "M-Milord?"
"You can cut the crappy act, you filthy whore!" Gangrel yelled, "Do you really think I'm some idiot who just laughs and kills all day? I guess neither you nor Validar truly knew me all that well..."
Aversa's eyes widened, "You...knew?"
"I'll give you some credit, bitch. You had me fooled for quite some time. However it doesn't take a genius to notice several...discrepancies in the tales you spun about your origins. Normally I would've dismissed such things as a mistake. But when there are far too many to keep track of, you think to yourself 'Maybe I'm not getting the full story'. So, I had one of my spies watch your every move. I must say, finding out your connections to brother dearest was quite interesting...I had thought he'd died ages ago."
"If only you had been just a bit more stupid." Gangrel turned to see Aversa glaring up at him, chuckling to herself, "Well then...I suppose my work here is finished then, O' Mad King. It's quite sad, isn't it? How your subordinates ridicule and mock you...and you have none to blame for that other than yourself. Goodbye, Gangrel. May your soul forever rot in hell..."
Aversa then left the throne room, hand clutching her cheek as Gangrel stared at her, only speaking after she had truly gone, "Good riddance to you, sewer rat. You all won't be laughing for long once I mop the floor with a new mop fashioned from that prince's very hair!"

"And you're sure of this?" Chrom asked as he stared at the Plegian Castle from a distance.
"That is what Flavia's spies have reported to us," Frederick answered, "Almost the entire Plegian army has collapsed, save a few men directly loyal to Gangrel himself."
"But why-?" Chrom stopped himself mid sentence, finding the answer almost immediately, "Emm..."
"It would seem her words affected more than just that Plegian general and his men."
"So they too, wish for peace," Chrom thought aloud, "Emm, I don't know if you're watching, but I hope you know your sacrifice was not in vain." Chrom then turned to face his army, scanning over the many faces of his comrades. He took a deep breath, "Alright everyone. This is it. Our final stand. Today is the day we see an end to Mad King Gangrel's tyranny once and for all. The coming battle will be rough and...there may be casualties. I know there are some of you among us that are quite young and have your whole lives ahead of you. So, if for any reason, you wish to back out and return home, do so now. Regardless of your decision, I shall not judge you." Chrom waited for a moment as none of his soldiers seemed to budge. Chrom then nodded, "Alright...If you all wish to fight, you have my thanks. I know not if we are to win or lose today, but regardless, it was an honor fighting with you." Chrom then faced forward, leading the Shepherds, fueled with the determination to fight for what he believed in. Eventually, they had made it to a small plateau as he looked to see what little remained of the Plegian forces. Their size however, still had to have totaled at minimum forty. At least, from what Chrom could tell. The tides weren't exactly in their favor, but it would not be impossible for their victory. "Well well, the princeling returns! It seems like only yesterday since your sister's failed flight attempt. Tell me, what's it like to be the king of a soon-to-be destroyed nation!?"
Chrom balled his fist as he felt his temper beginning to build. Only Robin's hand upon his shoulder allowed for it to dissipate as he took a deep breath and drew Falchion, pointing toward the direction of Gangrel, "The time for talk is over, Gangrel! Today, you shall die and peace shall finally be restored to not just Ylisse, but all of Archanea!"
"Oooh, I'm just quakin' in me little booties!" Gangrel mocked, "And besides Mr. Pot, the kettle here would like to remind you that you don't know a damn thing about peace!"
"I'll know more about it than you ever will."
"More than me, he says!?" Gangrel started laughing, "Fool boy, you ARE me! When life asks you a question, your first response is to spill the blood of others! You're nothing more than a sanctimonious hypocrite, just like your fool sister!"
"You know what? Maybe you're right. Perhaps we do in fact have our similarities. We fight. We kill. But if there's at least one thing that sets us apart, it's the fact that the bonds I have sown with all of my comrades here have helped to steer me from descending into a cycle of madness and destruction. A cycle you yourself have fallen victim to!"
"Are you done? Can I throw up now? Your bowels must be jealous of the shit that flows from your mouth! Men are nothing more than blood-thirsty beasts! And last I checked, beasts don't stand with beasts! They only use each other for their own selfish desires!" Gangrel's smile started to fade as Chrom started laughing. Gangrel hadn't expected this reaction as the laughter made him angrier and angrier, "This isn't in the script, boy! You're supposed to charge headlong into my forces and get torn to bits! What's so damn funny anyway!?"
Chrom then composed himself, "You know what, Gangrel? I think I finally understand you. After all these years of believing you to be this complex and unreadable villain, I understand now what you truly are. A delusional fool who refuses to see the good of this world. A man so poisoned by the atrocities that you too, have become a plague. A cancer that won't stop its spread until the world itself is dragged to hell with you. Small wonder why anyone would wish to leave you to rot."
"Insolent prince!" Gangrel roared, "Men, turn those Ylissean scum into a red mush. The prince is all mine! Any of you lay so much a finger upon him, expect to be mixed into the Ylissean blood pool!"

Gangrel's mad dash for Chrom took him off guard as he barely managed to block the attack, "Everyone, I'll hold Gangrel off, take care of his soldiers!" Everyone nodded as they began their own charge against the Plegian forces as Chrom struggled against Gangrel's might. His madness and anger made it feel as if he had the strength of three men! Just as it felt as if he would lose the struggle, a blast of wind magic hit where Gangrel once stood as he had managed to dodge it. Chrom turned to see Robin had not left and had begun to draw her own blade, "R-Robin, what're you-?"
"I told you that I'd always be by your side, didn't I?" Robin teased, "Now, let's give Gangrel a show, shall we?"
Chrom nodded as they charged and struck at Gangrel simultaneously as he barely blocked their blows, "Fine! Two or two-hundred, I'll cut down any fool who dares challenge me!" Gangrel pushed them back then swung for Chrom as Robin blocked, "Die! Die now!!" Gangrel kicked Robin in the shin, causing her to fall to one knee as his sword swung to her neck. Robin just barely managed to duck as the blade simply grazed her hair as Chrom slashed at Gangrel as he quickly jumped back as he maneuvered his sword in front of himself as Robin returned to her feet and stood by Chrom once more, "Ya know, I'm gettin' real sick and tired of your little friends constantly bailing you out!" Gangrel snarled, raising his sword to the sky, firing a bolt of lightning where the two once stood as they quickly jumped out of the way in different directions. Gangrel dashed after Robin and swung for her torso, only to be blocked by her sword, "Maybe I should just kill you first! That way I can finally get the little princeling all to myself!"
"Unfortunately for you, It'll take a lot more than that to keep me down!" Robin then shoved him back and began unleashing a volley of blows, each one harder for Gangrel to block. Eventually, Gangrel's block became too slow as Robin's blade swung for his head! When suddenly a sharp pain came from her chest, causing her to drop her weapon and fall to the floor, writhing in pain.
"Robin!" Chrom shouted, watching in horror as her agonizing screams resounded as Gangrel laughed, "What's this? Have the gods finally taken pity on little ol' me!? How infuriating! I need no damn pity! I want a real fight dammit!!" As Gangrel raised his blade to pierce the downed Robin, Chrom charged and shoved him aside, "Get the hell away from her!"
"There he is," Gangrel said, panting and smiling like a madman, "There's the prince I was hoping to face! Come then, show me just how beastly you can be!"
"C-Chrom, don't...I can still-"
"Not a chance!" Chrom argued, "Robin, you're in no condition to continue fighting! I know you dislike my protectiveness of you, but you can't keep pushing yourself! I won't let you get yourself killed for my sake!"
"And as suddenly the beast appears, he goes back into hiding!" Gangrel yelled, "Show me your damn war face, princeling!"
Chrom stared Gangrel down, drawing his blade to his side, "Oh, I'll be facing you alright. Not as this 'beast' you claim that I am, but as a man who fights for what he believes in!"

Cordelia, Sumia and Nowi descended from the sky and struck down a few of the mages while Frederick, Sully and Stahl fended off the archers who attempted to retaliate, "Blades in front, mages in back!" Frederick ordered. Lon'qu charged towards the soldier charging towards Frederick and shouted, "I'll make this quick!" as he quickly disarmed his foe and kicked him down. Two more took their downed comrades' place and attempted to overwhelm him with sheer numbers...which did nothing to deter the swordsman as he fended them off.

"Seven, Eight, Nine!" Vaike counted as he took down more and more foes with his axe, wild smile upon his face.
"Must you tally the individuals whose demises you have so unceremoniously orchestrated?" Miriel asked as she blasted another foe with her fire magic.
Vaike shrugged, "It's kinda fun! Plus it's nice to brag to the others how many more kills I got than 'em!" Vaike then returned to beating down the other soldiers as he continued counting, "Ten! Eleven!"
Miriel pondered about Vaike's strange reasoning, "Fun, he says..." Miriel then turned to another soldier charging her as she blasted him down, "Six..." Miriel smiled, "Perhaps he is right in this being rather amusing..." Miriel then smiled as she too, began counting her victories.

"Is it just me, or does this here scuffle feel a mite easier 'n I figured it would?" Donnel asked as he struck down his fifth soldier.
Ricken nodded, back to back with him while blasting another foe with his wind magic, "Gangrel's not here to tell 'em how to fight!"  Ricken then shot out a bolt of lightning towards another soldier, "Without any sort of tactics, they're just attacking at random!"
"So what yer sayin' is they's like a mess of headless chickens runnin' 'round?" Donnel asked, pushing back another foe with his shield.
Ricken nodded, "Still, best we don't get cocky now!"
"Ooh, I gots me an idea, ya have on of em fancy fire books on ya?"
Ricken drew upon a red book and opened it, "Why?"
Donnel pointed to his sword, a stupid grin upon his face, "I done always wanted to give this a whirl."
"You cannot be serious, Donny!" Ricken said exasperated as a swinging blade caused them to separate, "Oh alright...and Chrom calls me immature." Ricken then shot a fireball towards his friend as he stuck his blade through it, causing the sword to emit a flaming aura as Donnel's smile made him look like a child who had just gotten into a jar full of cookies, "Yee haw! Let's wrangle 'em dastards!" he yelled while charging his foes with his newly acquired as Ricken just shook his head, "That should not have worked the way it did."

As Sully and Stahl charged through the soldiers with Frederick, a stray arrow caused her to fall from her horse and on to the ground. Stahl noticed and tried to go back for her, only to be intercepted by a large group as they kept him at bay. Sully winced at the pain as she snapped the arrow's shaft in two as she noticed a heavily armored soldier wielding a hammer, walking right towards her. Sully drew her lance and tried to strike the knight, but her wound slowed her down as her foe swung his hammer down upon her weapon, causing it to fall out of her grasp and break. Sully drew upon her sword. She wasn't as efficient with the weapon as with a lance, but it would do just fine. She tried getting in a few nicks against the knight, but due to his hammer's range, she could only graze his armor with her admittedly pitiful blade. Worse still, she had to make sure that when she dodge, she didn't accidentally send the arrow deeper into her body. Eventually, a combination of blood loss and exhaustion caused her to collapse and drop her weapon, "Sully, no!" Stahl cried, attempting to inch closer but failing due to the soldier's weapons scaring his steed. Sully looked death right in the face, ready to see all she had worked for be crushed into nothingness when suddenly, Virion from seemingly out of nowhere, retrieved the weapon and blocked the massive weapon's destructive force, gripping the hilt with one hand and pressing the other against the blade, "Normally, I wouldn't involve myself with such unruly brutes, but for you I shall make an exception!" He then pushed the foe back as he attempted to swing once more, but Virion was too quick as he escaped the weapon's range and got as close as he could to its wielder, "One for the bards!" he shouted, shoving the blade into a crevice in the armor, causing him to fall dead. Virion then walked over Sully who was now sitting upright and gob smacked by his combat prowess as he offered his hand to her, "Quite the show, eh milady?"
Sully swatted his hand away, "Whatever, it wasn't that impressive..." As she tried to stand, the pain from the arrow caused her to fall again as Virion caught her, Sully turning away from him with embarrassment, "Milady, you're injured. We need to find you a healer!"
"Sh-Shut up," Sully said, "This is just a flesh wound, I'll be fine! I won't let myself be replaced-"
"I understand how you must feel about the injustices in this word, but not seeking help will just get you killed. You are quite skilled on the battlefield, even more skilled than me. But if you don't take care of yourself, you'll just end up dying for what the world would see as a foolhardy cause. Now come, I'm sure Libra is somewhere nearby." Sully groaned, but relented as Virion threw his arm around her and walked her in search of a healer. Stahl still struggled to keep his foes off of him as Cordelia descended and swept a few off their feet, giving him the opportunity to do away with the rest as he gave Cordelia a thumbs up and returned to the fray.

"It's Gregor time!" Gregor shouted as he struck down yet another soldier as Panne kicked two more to the ground as they tried to charge Gregor from behind as she sighed, "You really should be more mindful of your blind spots, man-spawn."
"Gregor got this, just little distracted as all!" as he returned to combat when Panne reverted to her humanoid form, shaking her head at how stupid he could be when a soldier attempted to sneak up on her and strike her down with his axe, only to be kicked square in the chest by Panne, who stared daggers at him as he was knocked to the ground. She then transformed back into a beast and joined Gregor in his one-man crusade against the Plegian forces.

As Lissa and Maribelle tended to Sully's wounds, Libra, Lon'qu, Virion, Olivia and Tharja were busy making sure none of the enemy soldiers even had a snowball's chance in hell at striking at them. They were doing a good job at it too...Until Lissa noticed a soldier had snuck up from behind and was about to stab Lon'qu in the back! Lissa was just about to warn him when Gaius appeared seemingly from nowhere and struck the would-be assassain down as Lon'qu quickly glanced at him, "Thanks."
"Anytime. We wouldn't want to lose our resident Mr. Super Swordsman now, would we?"
"Don't call me that..."
"Whatever you say, Mr. Super Sword."
Lon'qu just sighed as he continued his attacks on his foe as Gaius joined up with the group to pitch in alongside Tharja as she had a wicked grin upon her face as if she took pleasure in ending the lives of her former comrades. Gaius shook at the thought, but pushed it to the back of his mind as he charged another soldier as Frederick rode up to them, "Great work, everyone! We've nearly bested them! Just a few more!"
"Music to my ears, General Busybody."
Frederick rolled his eyes as he returned to combat, striking down several more soldiers as Sumia descended to assist him. The two nodded as they took down soldier after soldier, until eventually there was only one man left in their wake. The man, terrified at their combined efficiency threw down his weapon and fled as Frederick and Sumia decided it was best they return to aid the group tending to the wounded.

Chrom slid back after another powerful hit from Gangrel, panting as he wiped the blood from off his cheek. It was no use. No matter how he tried to approach him. Worse still, he feared Gangrel would make a move to hurt Robin, as she was slowly attempting to return to her feet, "Awww, what the matter princeling?" Gangrel taunted, "Afraid I'll gut your lovely tactician?"
Chrom face darkened as his rage began to build, "Chrom, don't!" Robin called out, "He's just trying to get under your skin."
He took a deep breath as both his face and mind cleared, "You're right...thanks Robin."
Now it was Gangrel's turn to feel his own building rage, "You stay outta this, wench!" he raised his sword to the sky as lightning struck the area just before where Robin was standing, causing her to fall to the ground as Chrom charged. Their blades met in the middle as they struggled for dominance over the other, "See? There's the princeling I was hoping for! You finally realize even if you maggots cling together, it won't save you from my falling boot!"
"You know something, Gangrel?" Chrom asked, "My sister wished for a world where we all could know peace. And I wish that you could be part of that world too. But after everything you've done...everything you'll continue to do...I see that there is no place in this world for you! For Ylisse!" Chrom pushed Gangrel back as their blades continued to clash against each other. Gangrel then managed to disarm Chrom of his weapon as he then tried to stab him when Robin, from out of nowhere blocked Gangrel's strike, "Damn it all, you fucking cockroach! I despise third wheels, ya know!"
"Look who's talking!" Robin shouted as she moved her blade up at such speed that it not only pushed Gangrel's blade out of the way, but also broke her sword. She casted it aside and quickly drew upon a wind tome and blasted Gangrel back as Chrom retrieved his weapon and charged. Gangrel, anger finally boiling over did the same, "Beg for your life, you worthless whelp!"
"Your end has come, Gangrel!" Chrom shouted as the two collided as they preformed one final stroke of their blades as they seemingly passed right through each other as not a single step was taken after, as if time itself had frozen. Chrom then clutched his side as fell to one knee. The wound was almost superficial. Gangrel however...his luck had finally run out as he collapsed to the desert sand, "F...Foolish Prince...Your people...Don't give a rat's ass...about you! Every man...Lives and dies...alone..." With his final words, Gangrel's lifeless corpse laid there, still as a board as his reign of terror had finally come to an end. Chrom, panting turned to face Robin, as she smiled. Chrom returned the gesture as he spoke, "Robin, tell everyone to cease fighting...We...We won..."

"We did it!" Lissa cheered, pumping both her fists to the sky.
"Once our messenger delivers our terms, we can finally put all this bloody business," Flavia said, grinning from ear to ear, "But hell yeah, we whooped their asses!"
"We won't have to worry about the Plegians terrorizing our people again," Frederick noted, scratching his chin, "I suppose a victory celebration is in order once we return to Ylisse."
"I didn't think you knew the meaning of that word," Lissa joked, elbowing Frederick and then rubbed her elbow after hitting his armor. Frederick rolled his eyes as everyone laughed. Robin then turned to Chrom, seeing him solemnly staring at what had once been the site of the final battle. She then walked up to him, "What's wrong? We won! We should be celebrating!"
Chrom turned to face her, "Oh, I know, it's just...I don't feel like celebrating is all."
"That's the thing about victory, boy," Basilio chimed in, patting Chrom on the back, "It can be not just sweet, but also bitter. Best you learn that now."
"I suppose it is," Chrom said as he turned to face his companions, "So Flavia, what will you do now?"
"We lost a lot of good men and women today," Flavia replied solemnly, "We'll need to attend to our fallen for the time being, then we'll need to rebuild our army."
"I'm sorry for the losses you've suffered today, Khan Flavia. I shall compensate you with whatever-"
"Well, you could give me the Fire Emblem and we can call it even."
Chrom nodded, removing it from his arm.
"H-Hey, I was joking!" Flavia quickly said, "You needn't worry about our finances, Chrom. That'll fall to Plegia. And I've seen their treasury. They can afford it and then some!"
Basilio shook his head, "Pity the man that stands between Flavia and a full coffer, boy."
"I'll be sure to keep that in mind," Chrom said, smiling, "Thank you both. I truly hope we can continue our comradery for years to come."
"You can bet on it!" Flavia said as she turned to Basilio, "C'mon, oaf! We've a treasure to collect!"
"I swear the only three things on your mind are partying, fighting and gold..."
"And is that a problem to you, cyclops?"

Soon after the departure of the Feroxi, almost all the Shepherds had begun to make their way to Ylisse. All, save for Chrom and Robin as they both stared toward an enchanting sunset. "You know...I think I could get used to not fighting for a while," Robin said.
Chrom hesitated for a second, "O-Oh, yeah uh...Robin. Thanks...for everything...and....I'm sorry that you got dragged into all of this..."
"Hey, I chose to fight it, didn't I?"
"I uh...suppose you did..."
"Are you...Okay?"
"Wh-Why wouldn't I be? I'm great! Fantastic even!" Chrom started to laugh nervously, his face turning beet red.
Robin turned to face him, sighing, "Look, we may not have been friends for long, but I can tell when something's bothering you...I-Is it me? Should-Should I leave?"
"Gods no, why would you think that!?" Chrom interrupted her, "That couldn't be further from the truth! It's...quite the opposite really..."
"Wh-What do you mean?"
Chrom took a deep breath, "Well...no turning back now. Listen, Robin...I...Ever since we first met, we've been fighting alongside each other, against Risen, against bandits, hell even against another nation! At first, I thought of you as an ally. Then a comrade. Then finally...a friend. A-And it wasn't until fairly recently...I realized that bond became even stronger..."
"Stronger?"
Chrom nodded, "I've been thinking...About everything. About...you. You're strong, smart, funny and...well...you're just..."
Now it was Robin's turn to feel her face turn red with embarrassment, "A-Are you-?"
"Wait! I-I've come this far, I just...need to see this through. Okay, you can do this, Chrom! Just remember what Frederick taught you. Deep breath, in...FHOOOOOOO!...hold...holding...and out...HAAAAAAAH!"
Robin glanced around nervously, "T-The hell're you-?"
Once more...FHOOOOOOO!...holding...holding...then out...HAAAAAAAH!" As Chrom exhaled, he then faced her once more, "Okay. I'm ready now. I will tell you exactly how I feel, even if it means your head explodes from pure embarrassment. I hope you're ready for this!"
"Just spit it out already!"
"Robin...I...I'm madly in love with you! From the moment we met, my heart had set its sights on yours...and I've only recently just realized it..."
Robin then buried her head in her hood, her emotions colliding together into a flustered mess, "S-So you have..."
Chrom sighed, "I-I know I'm coming on to you like a wyvern in heat like this but...I want you to know I value our friendship above all else. Whatever your decision is, I will respect it and...and we'll always still be friends. I-If...you're okay with that..."
"No, i-it's fine...because I...I feel the same way. The truth is I...I was terrified of ruining our friendship that...I felt as if I...needed to contain these feelings. Plus, a relationship of that magnitude between general and tactician...It wouldn't have been right to me. Now I see that...I was just a stupid fool."
"You're not! I...I understand how that must've felt for you. And if anything...it makes this next part that much easier."
"Next part?"
Chrom nodded, as he got down on one knee, "Robin, I know we met under unusual circumstances. But we've been through so much together. The good times, the bad times...I don't think my life would be quite the same without you in it and...I'd like for that to stay that way...forever. Emm had always followed her heart, so I shall do the same. So...What I want to ask now is..." Chrom then pulled his ring out and presented it, "Robin, will you...marry me?"
Robin just stood there in shocked silence, cupping her hands around her mouth as tears began to form.
"I know I'm pressing my luck here, so...if you're not ready for this yet, I can always-"
Chrom's sentence abruptly ended as Robin wrapped her arms around him and pressed her lips against his. For what was only a brief instance to the rest of the world, it was an eternity for them. An eternity filled with nothing but pure and utter bliss, as Robin only pulled away to hug him tightly, "I would follow you to the ends of the earth, you big dork."
Chrom wiped a tear from his eye as he reciprocated Robin's embrace, "Oh Robin...This might just be the happiest day of my life. Of course, I'll need some time before our wedding. I must first heal the scars of this war and assume my role for the people, but after that, we can truly begin our life together."
"Don't worry, I'll figure something out. I am a tactician after all."
"Thank you, Robin."
Robin nodded, "Still, it's strange to look back on when we first met. How the world brought us together, but honestly? I don't mind it one bit."
"I suppose it is rather strange. But life is full of uncertainties like that, after all. Although there is one thing that is truly certain now: Robin, my love, I'll be the wind at your back and the blade by your side. Together we shall build a peaceful world for all."