After playing the game for countless hours, I need to get the desire to write at least one story for this game out of my system. This story is an adaption and expansion of the Future Past DLC (aka Future of Despair). Obviously, marriages are present and you're OTP and/or "canon" ships might not be in here. Also if you've already played the DLC, expect 50% of this story's dialogue to be Copy-Pasted from the game.

Anyway, as a little guide for what the classes and marriages are for this chapter:

Chrom (Great Lord) - Sumia (Dark Flier) - Lucina (Great Lord) - Cynthia (Falcon Knight)

Vaike (Warrior) - Sully (Paladin) - Kjelle (General)

Henry (Sorcerer) - Tharja (Sorcerer) - Noire (Sniper)

Donnel (Hero) - Nowi (Manakete) - Nah (Manakete)

Gaius (Assassin)

Anna (Trickster)

And as another note, MU/Avatar is male and I'm using his default name, Robin.


Chapter 1 - Despair

It was a mysterious yet familiar location. During their journey in the Outrealms, a powerful force had suddenly dragged the Shepherds into yet another world. They emerged in a large central chamber, probably part of an even grander temple judging by the interior design. It was reminiscent of Naga's shrine at the peak of Mount Prism. Chrom, captain of the Shepherds and Exalt of Ylisse, was the first to step forward and examine the area.

"Where are we? There's something different about this place..."

Almost immediately the Divine Dragon, Naga, appeared before him. Her radiating form was illuminating the entire chamber.

"Wait, how...?!"

"You've arrived at last," said Naga with a calm and echoing voice. "It was I who summoned you, Outrealm warriors."

"...Summoned us? Why?"

"A world stands on the brink of demise. But I have no power there to save it. Only those with the power to cross time and space can reach it in its hour of need... Only warriors such as yourselves."

"What world is this that could possibly be beyond your power?"

"A world in which the ancient fell dragon has been revived, causing untold chaos. All hope for the future rests upon the shoulders of twelve valiant children—an exalted princess and eleven others born with the power to alter their destinies. However, without intervention, these twelve children will most certainly die."

"Exalted princess and eleven others?" Lucina muttered to herself. "Could she mean-?"

The princess glanced at her other time traveling companions. All of them were having similar reactions with uneasy expressions. Even Gerome was wincing behind that mask. Thankfully neither their parents nor the other Shepherds had noticed them. The children did not speak up, but they knew nobody was going to say anything until their suspicions were confirmed. Lucina soon shuffled towards Laurent who happened to be the closest time traveler. The older mage was lowering his head as he readjusted his glasses.

"Laurent..."

"It's just a hypothesis, Lucina... One cannot prove it without substantial evidence..."

"All of them?" Chrom asked Naga. "But that's..."

"Hear me," said the Divine Dragon. "Four children obtain Gules and Azure but are annihilated ere they can bear it home. Four more obtain Argent and Sable, only to expire in sight of their country's border. Three manage to successfully deliver Vert and the Emblem to the princess... But soon after, all three of them—as well as the princess—are slain."

"Gules and Azure?!" Lucina repeated in her mind. "Argent and Sable?! Vert and the Emblem?!"

"Concrete evidence, Lucina!" whispered Laurent.

"Then who saves the world?" asked Chrom.

"None do. It sinks, unresisting, into shadow...and finally fades into oblivion. This is the world's inexorable destiny. But sometimes destinies are too cruel...and so I sought help. Warriors, I beseech you: intervene. Change what cannot be changed without you."

"We'd never turn our backs on those in need so long as the power to help them is ours. That goes for this world and any other—even if our hopes are as thin as you say."

"Thank you. But first, there is another obstacle that you must conquer, and it is among yourselves."

"I'm afraid I don't follow..."

"As I said, this is a world where the ancient fell dragon has been revived, causing untold chaos. My power and influence has been severely weakened almost to the point of nonexistence. In its current state, I am only able to guide your warriors once. And even then your time is short."

"In other words, we need to form three separate brigades."

"Correct. But if I may be so bold, I have already determined their members in order to ensure the best possible outcome. Though if your tactician disagrees..."

"No, I think we can trust the judgment of a Divine Dragon." Robin said confidently.

Naga raised her arms. "Very well. Then I shall send you now to the brink—the moment in time before the world falls. Find the children, and see them through their task."

"We will." replied Chrom.

"Here is my final counsel... The world you are about to visit bears a great resemblance to your own. You may encounter people you know or people you love... If you do, fight by their sides. It will give them great courage and strength. Now go, warriors. I know that destiny can yet be reshaped by your hands!"

In a flash of light, the Shepherds were soon engulfed by Naga's power. Just like the force that brought them here, they could feel themselves been taken to another location. However, they could also feel a strong power flowing in the opposite direction, like an evil entity trying to force them away. None of them could see each other in the blinding light, but they could sense their numbers dwindling as time progressed. Everyone hoped this was all part of the plan as the light faded and their destinations were in sight...


Chrom awoke to find himself standing in the middle of an empty field. After a quick headcount, there were roughly a third of the Shepherds with him: Sully, Vaike, Sumia, Gaius, Nowi, Tharja, Henry, Donnel, Anna, Lucina, Kjelle, Cynthia, Noire, and Nah. Unfortunately, their beloved tactician was not among them.

"Looks like Robin's not going to be with us for now..." said Chrom.

Tharja sighed. "Figures I get put on the team without him..."

Anna shrugged. "What did you expect? I'll agree Robin's a miracle worker, but he can't be in more than two places at once."

"Well, technically..." said Henry.

"Yeah, yeah, crow-for-brains," said Gaius. "No need to bring up that confusing junk."

"Well, since Robin's gone for now," said Sully, "looks like we're counting on you, Chrom!"

The captain nodded. "I'll do my best."

"Hey," said Vaike, "anyone know where we are?"

"It looks familiar," replied Sumia. "I think I remember flying over here during a scouting mission..."

"Soil says this here's Plegia," Donnel announced. He was crouched down rubbing a clump of dirt in his hand. "Which can only mean-"

"Grimleal territory..." Nowi said shivering.

"Then we have to start moving," said Chrom. "If the children carrying Gules and Azure are being chased here, then they'll surely be outnumbered. But the question is where to find them..."

"...Over there." replied Nah. "Inside that old building."

The young Manakete pointed towards a clearing just beyond a group of trees. At the summit of a small but extremely wide hill was an abandoned château. A more thorough examination of the area revealed destroyed fencing hidden within the tall grass. It appeared a wealthy noble lived here before disaster happened and nature reclaimed it.

"I don't hear anyone in there," said Nowi. "Are you sure your ears aren't playing tricks on you?"

"Trust me," Kjelle said hesitantly. "Nah's got the right idea..."

"Y-yeah..." Noire muttered. "I think they're right."

"Well...it's the best bet we've got," said Chrom. "Let's go, Shepherds!"

Chrom took the lead with Kjelle, Noire, and Nah following right behind him. The latter two had a particular air of anxiety and determination around them. Noire was still a little fidgety, but her parents still found it strange that she was walking that close to the front lines. Meanwhile, Lucina and Cynthia were walking together, bringing up the rear. Though no one paid attention, it seemed the latter was trying raise her sister's spirits.

"C'mon, Lucina! Even if it is what we think it is, we all know how it will eventually turn out!"

"But, what if...? Gods, this is so confusing!"

"Plus we have Naga's protection this time! There's no way we're gonna lose!"

"I suppose you may be right, but what about them?"


"Oh no! W-we're surrounded?! This is the end, isn't it..."

"After all we suffered to claim Gules and Azure, we'll never even get them home..."

"Noire! Nah! What are you saying?! We have to stay strong! A true hero knows it's always darkest just before the dawn! We're just building up to the big comeback, right, Kjelle?"

"I suppose it's a bit premature. Our defeat isn't inevitable yet. I can't count how many times we've faced certain death since coming to Plegia...and every time, the four of us managed to make it out alive. Surrounded or not, we can't fall here... Not to chumps like these."

"Exactly! If we all work together, these fiends won't stand a chance. Justice will not be denied!"

"Wh-what's going on?! These Risen! I've never seen them move like this..."

"Wha...?! How did they separate us so easily?! Hey! G-get back! Don't you touch my lance! That belonged to my mother! It means everything to me! Give it back, you creep! You...you have to! Please, not the lance... You can take anything, but not that!

"Damn! One of them got my dragonstone! How am I supposed to fight now? Give that back! It doesn't belong to you!

"They were lying in wait for us... They must have known we'd try to resist... They even got my talisman... Now it really is hopeless..."

"Get away, you filthy craven! You really need two of you to disarm one of me?! Of course you do! You'd never stand a chance of defeating me in a fair fight!"

"Guys, we can't fight them like this! And those flames are spreading fast! Everyone, find a way to break through and then regroup at— What...?! Barricades?! You've got to be kidding me! We'll never be able to regroup now..."

"So this is the end, then... We've no cards left to play. Very well. If you plan to kill us, please just get on with it. I made my peace with that the day we left Ylisse..."

"Nah! What are you saying?! We can't give up! What about the five Gemstones? We'll never get them all if we quit now! And if we can't perform the Awakening, the entire world is doomed!"

"Do you think I don't know that? Do you think any of us doesn't know that?! I don't WANT to die here, Cynthia, but I don't see very many other options! Do you honestly think someone's going to swoop in and rescue us? That some great warrior is going to appear and spout one of your heroic introductions?"

"I...I don't..."

"I know what you're feeling, Cynthia. When things get bad, I'm the same way. I pray that somehow Naga will hear my pleas and come to my rescue... That I'll hear her voice whispering in my ear, and then suddenly everything will be okay. But even after all we've been through, I've never heard her voice even once! I think it's time for us to face the music. There's just no such thing as miracles.

"..."

"Listen, Cynthia. I'm sorry... I don't want my last words to you be angry ones. Even after everything that's happened, I'm still so glad I met all of you. I love you guys. Every last one of you. Thank you...for everything. Maybe we'll be reborn into a kinder world. And we can all meet again one day..."

"Nah, please! Don't say good-bye! There's still a chance!"

"I, too, feel privileged to have known you all. I'd have been so lost without you... I'm sorry I was always such a pessimist. But even so, I never gave up hope... I always knew in my heart that as long as I had all of you, we'd make it through. But...I guess it just wasn't meant to be. This time we truly are finished... I suppose I'll never know what it means to lead a normal, happy teenage life... I...I'll just stop there... The more I say, the harder this all gets..."

"Come on, Noire! You know I can't stand to see you like this!"

"It's been an honor to fight beside you all. True, I was a little worried at first... But you proved stronger and braver than I ever expected. You always had my back. It got to the point that I honestly thought the four of us would never be defeated. So much for that, huh? This time I just don't see a way out... I hate to pass our duty onto the others, but...maybe they're still alive? Maybe they'll figure out some way to save the world without these two Gemstones? If I'm going to die here, I'd at least like to die with some small shred of hope... A hope that somehow, some way, the good guys can still win this..."

"Kjelle... I guess you're right... Without weapons, we have no hope of fighting through this... It kills me to say it, but...I don't think I'm gonna be able to save us after all... But that doesn't mean I'm giving up. We can't die here, not like this! We HAVE to take the Gemstones back. We HAVE to defeat Grima! We have to fulfill our dream of bringing peace back to the world... We...we have to! I want to believe there's still some way out of this... I want to believe there's still some way to get home... Maybe Nah's right, and there's no such thing as miracles... Heck, maybe the gods don't even exist at all... But I'm praying all the same. So please, gods, if you're out there... Please...send us a miracle!"


"What in the world?!"

As the Shepherds approached the château, they passed through a magical barrier. On the other side, the building's state was in an even worse state of disrepair. Smoke was escaping from various windows although there wasn't any indication that the building burning down anytime soon.

"Looks like someone cast an illusionary hex." Tharja remarked.

"Nya ha! And a pretty good one too!" Henry added. "Whoever cast it must be preeetty powerful! Even Tharja and I couldn't sense it!"

"What are you talking about? Of course I sensed it! I just...didn't want to bring it up..."

"Suuure you did~"

"Alright," said Chrom, "we know that a powerful opponent probably awaits us inside. But what about his forces?"

"Lots of them..." said Nowi. "I'm hearing a bunch of footsteps inside...and...voices...crying for help!"

"They're probably holdin' the children captive!" Donnel exclaimed.

"So what's the plan?" asked Sully. "Charge in or sneak inside?"

"Stealth really isn't an option," replied Henry. "Whoever we're facing probably knows we're here already. If it was just one of us, he would probably think it's just some random animal, but since we all crossed that barrier..."

"Wait," said Sumia. "Didn't we just pick up a bunch of Rescue Staves from the Anna in that volcano town?"

"Won't work either." Tharja replied. "There's another spell in effect, the kind that prevents any kind of magic that uses teleportation."

"Then it looks like we have no other choice," said Chrom as he unsheathed Falchion.

"No!" Lucina finally shouted. "I can't allow it!"

"What's wrong, Lucina?

"This... This is just like my future. Where I came from! It's all so similar...

"What?! Are you certain?"

"I could never forget. That enmity in the air—like the fell dragon threatens to crush us with every breath. I fear we've made a terrible error... I barely escaped that world with my life. How could I have brought you here?"

"Lucina, calm down. We chose to come here. And I think it's a good thing we did."

"But, Father, you could die!"

"I know. But I also know you survived a world of death just like this one and came to us. You braved it all so that you might change our future."

"Yes, but..."

"Put yourself in my position. In the future you came from, I was already... I couldn't protect you. But in this version of the future, if you're here...it's like getting a second chance. Even if you and her aren't the same...I need this catharsis. For once, I'll be able to say I was there to keep you safe."

"But...what's the point if you end up dead?!"

Chrom put his hand on her shoulder. "Lucina, I promise you: I won't die here. I've got two worlds to save now. I intend to get the job done."

"Father, please..."

"Lucina, sometimes you just have to have faith. Would I lie to you?"

"No... All right, Father. I believe you. I know you'll do whatever it takes to save the people of this world."

"That's more like it. Now, come on. Let's find those children!"

"Then allow us to help lead!" Kjelle said confidently with Cynthia, Noire, and Nah by her side.

"Yeah!" Cynthia added. "We know this place better than anyone!"

"Ah, so I take it these children are yourselves?" asked Anna. "Keeping secrets from us, were you?"

"Yeah, look who's talking," Gaius remarked.

"I'm sorry..." said Noire. "I was worried about how everyone would react..."

"I apologize as well," said Nah. "I just assumed the events would play out exactly like ours, but I was wrong. Like Lucina said, this is just like our future, but...it's different. One big example, there was never anyone here that night. All of us passed through this place unharmed."

"This unknown enemy must be manipulating things," said Chrom. "Come on, Shepherds! We have to hurry!"

The group proceeded through the entrance into a very long corridor. From where they stood, they could only spot two doors before the hallways shifted north. Mounted torches and burning piles of rubble were the only source of light in this place. One could say it was desolate with the complete lack of furniture aside from the long red carpet although that wouldn't best describe the amount of converging Risen.

"Gods! This is even worse than I thought," said Chrom.

"Don't let them reach those doors!" exclaimed Kjelle. "That's probably where our other selves are trapped!"

"Leave it to me!" said Vaike brandishing his axe.

The warrior charged forth towards the eastern door, easily knocking aside Risen before they could raise their weapons. Sully and Sumia quickly mounted their steeds and joined Vaike. Sumia provided covering support with her magic while the battle couple decimated the oncoming forces. Donnel, Nowi, Nah, and Kjelle soon joined the battle as well. The general and pot-headed hero protected the dark flier from flying arrows and cut down any Risen that came close to the door. Utilizing the power of their dragonstones, the manaketes transformed and laid waste to numerous Risen with their dragonbreath.

Meanwhile at the western end, Lucina and Anna were expertly slashing their way through Risen. The merchant's rapid movements easily disarmed opponents leaving them open for the princess' killing blow as well as finishing off Risen that survived Falchion's strikes. As support, the dark mage couple and their daughter were sniping at distant foes, halting their advancement.

Chrom stood at the center beside Cynthia who was mounted and ready to be a speedy transport. It felt strange not having Robin to coordinate the Shepherds' attacks or offer advice, but the captain knew he couldn't always depend on his trusted companion. As the current Exalt, he had to be capable of making his own decisions in any situation. Thankfully, the time he spent with Robin had given Chrom a much better understanding about the tactician role.

"The Risen numbers are manageable now. Get those doors open!"

"This one's locked!" exclaimed Donnel.

"This one as well!" Lucina added.

"Alright, you two go back to fighting! Anna! Gaius! You know what to do!"

"Leave it to me~" Anna said winking.

"Think you can beat me to it, Miss Sticky Fingers?" Gaius teased.

"Oh, look who's talking..." she said using her best guy voice.

The lockpickers immediately got to work. Their concentration was wavering with them being extremely vulnerable and the sounds of warfare ringing in their ears. Nevertheless, they were able to open the doors with ease although Anna was the first to succeed.

"Years of professional experience, kid~"

"Quickly!" exclaimed Chrom. "Rescue whoever's inside!"

"C'mon, Donny!" said Nowi as she transformed back to her natural self and grabbed the farm boy's hand. "I think this should be our job!"

"You've got things handled here," Tharja told her group. "I'll handle the rescue."


"Eeeek! Get away!"

The frightened alternate Nah was sitting atop a tall cabinet, just out of reach from two Revenants fiercely scratching at her only protection. By the time Gaius opened the door, the cabinet collapsed from the sustained damage.

"Hey, you varmints!" exclaimed Donnel as he raised his sword. "Leave her alone!"

The Risen charged at him, but they soon found out they were no match for the hero's hidden strength. With them gone, Nowi began clearing the rubble and helped her daughter stand up.

"Heeeey, Nah!"

"Huh? M-mother?! How can this be?"

"I don't really get it myself! All I know is that we're here from another world to save you! But we can't stay here for long, so we have to move quickly..."

"This is all a little hard to swallow...But when I saw you, I guessed it had to be something like that."

"That's my Nah—smart as ever!"

"Mother...I don't want you to save me."

"What?! C'mon, don't be a spoilsport! I'm all fired up for a rumble!"

"The Risen here are extremely powerful. I can't let you put yourself in danger."

"What? Why not?! You think I can't handle myself? Or what, was the Nowi of this world some sort of superhuman megadragon?!"

"I wouldn't know. My mother died when I was too young to remember. I only know how she looked from pictures. Did she look strong...? Maybe..."

"O-oh...I'm sorry, Nah. I...I didn't know..."

"That's why I don't want you to fight them—how could I go on if I lost you twice? So please...just leave, okay?"

Nowi shook her head. "Hmm, nope! Sorry. Nuh-uh. I'm not going anywhere."

"Huh?"

"I came here to save you, Nah. I love you! I have to protect you! And your real mother—the Nowi of this world—she wants me to save you too. I can hear her telling me so!"

"You...you can hear her...?"

She held her daughter's hands. "Yup! And with double the Nowi power, there's no way we're gonna lose! So have some faith in your mothers, okay?"

"Are you sure...?"

"Sure, I'm sure! Now relax and leave everything to us!"

Nah nodded. "Okay. I will. Thank you. Both of you. I'm sorry for what I said earlier. I'm really happy I got to see you...And that you...came to save me..."

"No problem! But uh...what else is bugging you?"

"I...lost my special stone. One of those things took it... I can't believe it's gone... Damned Risen! Now what am I supposed to do?!"

"This here stone what yer lookin' for?" asked Donnel as he approached her with a worn out the stone in his hand.

Nah awkwardly took it from him. "Oh, uh... yes. Yes, it is."

"One of them critters dropped it a bit ago. I had me a notion it might be yours, Nah."

"Thanks. It was a gift from my father, so it means a lot to me. It isn't as powerful as a dragonstone or anything, but..." She paused and looked at him strangely. "Hey, wait a minute—who are you? And how do you know my name?"

Nowi struggled to stop her giggling.

"Whoops! I plumb forgot to explain!" He reached into his pocket and pulled out his own. "Here, take a look—see at this..."

"It's another stone... Hey, it's exactly like mine!"

"Sure is. And one day, I'll give it to ya. I'm your pa."

"Father...you're so young! I didn't even recognize you!"

"Our world's just a smidge farther back in time than this one, is all. But I'm still the man who becomes yer pa."

"Father... It really is you, isn't it? I never imagined... It's a miracle!" She tackled him to the floor. "Oh, father, I'm so happy to see you!"

"Ya done good," he said patting her head, "survivin' against the Risen like this. I can't stay long, but I'll protect ya while I can. I swear it on this here stone."

"Th-thank you... And I swear on the stone too—that I'll never give up hope again!"


"Hee hee hee... Just two Risen? Please..."

Tharja walked into the room with a glowing Waste tome. She immediately set her sights on the two Barbarian Risen menacing the alternate Noire. In a few seconds, the Risen were consumed within clouds of darkness and soon perished. As their bodies disintegrated, Tharja stood above her still cowering daughter.

"I think you dropped this..."

Recognizing her voice, Noire quickly opened her eyes to see her mother holding a bow.

"M-Mother?! Y-you're here?! B-but...how? Did...did you resurrect yourself with some kind of curse?"

"Hee hee... And what if I did?"

"It wouldn't matter one bit!"

Her grimace faded. "It wouldn't?"

"Of course not! I'm used to your curses! And I don't care if you're a zombie! I'd put up with anything just to be with you again... You don't know how lonely I've been since you sacrificed yourself to save me. I don't care if you stink of death or your insides have turned to goo... I'm just happy to see you—alive, undead, or whatever else. Oh, Mother! Please don't ever leave me again!"

"Noire..." Tharja looked away. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have led you on like that. Your mother hasn't come back to life. I'm not her."

"B-but..."

"I'm a different Tharja on a brief visit here from another world. I'm not the one who raised you. Sorry for getting your hopes up."

"Oh, you... Oh. I...I suppose I should have known. Death is permanent, after all..." She quickly stood up. "But I meant what I said. I am happy to see you, even if you're not...you. Even if you are from another world... Even if you're here only briefly..."

"Good. Then I'm happy too. You were saying earlier that they took your talisman, weren't you? Let me make it up to you by helping you get it back."

"Really? You'd do that? Oh, thank you!" She began to sob. "Mother..."

"Tears? Really? What am I supposed to...? Listen, I don't have much time. But while I'm here, I'm going to make the creatures who tried to hurt you pay. Out of respect for your real mother, if nothing else."

"Thank you."

"Now, let's pick out the perfect curse for your vengeance, shall we? And let's make it a real humdinger. After all, what's the point in coming to another world if I can't let my hair down? Hee hee hee..."

"Oh, Mother... This is just like old times!"

The reunited women began discussing various kinds of dark magic. It lasted for a few minutes before someone came to check on them.

"Tharja?" said Henry as he stuck his head through the doorway. "You still in one piece? Our group's moving on now and-Oh! Hey-o, Noire! Good to see you're still alive!

"Wh-what?!"

"Don't freak out on me!" he exclaimed waving his arms. "Just listen. I'm not your enemy—I'm your dad. Sorta..."

"I...I don't think so! This is another trap, isn't it?" She began to inch away from Tharja as well. "My mother and father?! You're just some sort of illusion!"

"What? You don't believe your own flesh and blood?! Mmm, blood..."

"No, I don't believe you! My parents are dead!"

"Hmm... I guess it is a pretty tough story to swallow. And a healthy sense of skepticism is a sign of a sharp mind, after all... That's my girl!"

"It's just...how is Naga supposed to help us if we don't even have the Fire Emblem yet? That's not how it works! You must be an illusion or shape-shifters or...under some kind of resurrection hex!"

"A hex? Nya ha! You really are your mother's daughter! Fine—resurrection curse it is! I'm Henry the Risen—rawr! Nya ha ha!"

"Huh...?"

"If believing that helps move things along, then so be it. You go right ahead and think I've been all Risened up by some curse! I just wanna get past this so I can start saving you from peril!"

"..."

"As you can see," said Tharja, "I pretty much have no control over him..."

"Hey, if it helps me protect my daughter, I'll be anything she wants me to be!"

"F-Father... I'm sorry! I'm so sorry I doubted you..." She leaped out and embraced him tightly. "I believe you—really I do! I'm sorry I thought you were cursed!"

"Huh? So now you believe me? You're a strange kid..."

"It's just...no impostor could ever talk the way you do, Father... So...about that offer to protect me... Will you help me get out of here alive?"

"Of course I will!" he said petting her. "Hexed or not, I've got your back, come hell or high water! Nya ha!"


"Shepherds!" exclaimed Lucina. "Halt your advance!"

The princess was serving as the commander of the western force. Her father had entrusted her with the responsibility as he left to command the eastern division. They had agreed to advance and converge at the northern part of the château. Currently, Lucina's team had cleared the entire southwestern section and were in pursuit of a retreating squad until the princess ordered a complete stop.

"Well this is peculiar..." said a lone hooded figure.

He was a Grimleal sorceror, but he was different from the rest. He was a young male judging by his stature and warped voice, but his attire prevented anyone from identifying any distinguishing features. However, he possessed a vague yet familiar aura.

"All of my resources informed me that the princess was still in Ylisse... How is it possible that they were all wrong?"

"You speak with a tone of familiarity and...regret," said Lucina. "Have we met before?"

"It doesn't matter," he said as he drew a Goetia tome. "Whether you're here or there doesn't matter. My orders are to kill you where you stand!"

"I'd like to see you try!" exclaimed Cynthia.

"Nya ha! Plus we know all your tricks!" Henry added. "Countering them will be a breeze!"

"...You're Plegian, aren't you?" he asked. "And those two girls as well... May I ask why you've chosen to betray Master Grima?"

"Religion's not the same as nationality," replied Tharja. "And I was Grimleal in name only. It's not like I actually believed all that stuff..."

"I can respect that. I'm only half-Plegian myself. But still, my heart belongs to Grima now. You will not sway me from my master! If you insist on interfering, I swear I will destroy you!"

"Everyone get down!" exclaimed Henry.

The Shepherds followed their sorceror's command, all except Tharja who joined her husband in combining the power of their Waste tomes. They aimed their spell at the lightning-filled cloud of darkness summoned by the hooded figure. After colliding, there was just one massive cloud floating above everyone's heads. A few thunderous booms were heard before the cloud began to dissipate.

"Noire! Now!"

"R-Right!"

The sniper quickly raised her bow and fired one arrow. The boy's reaction was fast, moving his body away from the arrow's path. He also possessed sharp eyes as he noticed the peculiarity of Noire's shot. The arrowhead was glowing purple and soon released a burst of dark magic. The boy's arm was then struck with a basic Flux spell. He still stood now clutching his arm in pain. It wasn't bleeding, but it was clear he couldn't use it again until properly treated.

"Argh! What kind of technique was that?!"

"Improvisation," Tharja replied grinning. "My daughter turned out to be just as good with a bow as she is with dark magic. It was difficult to decide what role she was best suited as."

"And then I came up with the great idea of combining them into one!" Henry continued. "Magic infused arrows! Nya ha! We're still working on them, but look at how great they turned out so far! Think about that potential! It'll be like a bunch of crows swooping down and devouring our enemies!"

"Urgh...! Don't think you've won just yet!" exclaimed the boy as he raised his tome.

"Lucina, go!" Cynthia shouted as she raised a glowing Ward staff. "I've got you covered!"

The princess gripped her blade and dashed straight towards her opponent. The Grimleal smirked and fired another spell with his tome. It was a direct hit, an explosion within a burst of lightning. But like Cynthia said, her staff nullified most of the damage. Lucina soon emerged from the smoke and lunged forth. The boy stepped aside and then quickly jumped back as she went for a sideways slash.

"Did you really think that tactic would work?"

"Not really," Anna whispered in his ear.

The boy was taken by surprise. He couldn't react in time and suffered five successive slashes from Anna's blade before he could regain his footing and dodge again.

"Damn it! You merchants are always a pest!"

"Thanks for the compliment~ I'll be sure to spread word to my sisters!"

"Ugh... You're all fools if you think I'll fall for your tricks again!"

Anna chuckled and pointed at his hand. "Uh, I think YOU'RE the bigger fool if you fell for one of the oldest tricks in the book."

The boy was confused at first until finally noticing that he no longer held the Goetia tome. It was replaced with an plain journal.

"Looking for this?" Anna asked while holding the tome in her hand.

The boy tried grabbing it, but the merchant simply pulled away and tossed it towards the dark mages who stared at it with delight.

"Oh... Robin will kill me if he found out I gave those two a tome like that without his permission..."

"Wha...What did you say?" the boy asked.

"That our tactician can be stingy when it comes to our weapon supply..."

"Tactician? Robin? But it's been ages since... Who are you people?"

"We're emissaries of the Divine Dragon, Naga," said Lucina with Falchion pointed at him. "We've been sent to liberate this world from the fell dragon's carnage!"

"Then that means... No... I must warn my master... Risen!"

The boy waved his hand, dispelling the barrier placed around the château. He then summoned a wall of Risen soldiers to separate himself. Once finished with delivering his orders, the Grimleal made a hasty retreat.

"Don't let him get away!" Lucina exclaimed.

"I've got him!" Anna shouted as she slipped past the slow-moving Risen.

"Henry! Tharja! Noire! What about you?"

"There's too many Risen blocking the way!" the sniper replied. "None of us can get an accurate shot!"

"I could fly and take him down!" Cynthia suggested.

"No," her sister replied, "you'll be too vulnerable and we can't risk losing someone who can heal and protect the injured!"

"Looks like we'll have to fight our way through," said Tharja.

Henry began giggling uncontrollably as he held the Goetia tome. "Oooooh! This is gonna be FUN! Nya ha ha ha ha!"


"Damn it! The lock's busted!"

After battling hordes of Risen, Chrom's group finally found another locked door. But not even their professional thief could break inside.

"Is there anything else you can do?" asked Chrom.

"I've tried everything, Blue! I don't even know how this door got locked in the first place!"

"Move aside!" exclaimed Vaike. "Time to do this the old fashioned way!"

The warrior swung his axe with brutal force. In a few strikes, the door was already in pieces, and Vaike was stepping over the debris.

"Alright, you damned Risen! Which one of you wants to take on the Vaike?!"

There were two mercenary Risen wielding steel swords. Noticing Vaike's weapon, they ceased their assault on the alternate Kjelle and slowly approached the disadvantaged warrior. The first swung his blade, but Vaike manage to block. However, this also left him vulnerable. Knowing this, the second Risen readied his sword.

"Ugh! You idiot!" Gaius exclaimed as he drew his own blade. "Don't just rush in like that!"

The thief dashed forward. He intercepted the second Risen and parried his attack. Now exposed, Gaius quickly stabbed the undead mercenary in his weak point.

"Sweet..."

"Hey, I totally could've handled that!" Vaike exclaimed while pushing away his opponent.

The Risen lost his balance and fell on his back only to be then decapitated by Vaike's axe.

"I'm sure you would," said Gaius, "but I don't think Chrom and Robin would want any serious injuries, especially in a place like this."

He sighed. "I hate it when you're right..."

"Ugh, there you two are!" said Sully as she entered the room. "Gaius, we found the last door. The other group ran into some trouble and Anna ran after someone so we need your expertise."

"Right, I'm on it."

Gaius hurried outside, leaving Vaike and Sully with the alternate Kjelle. The general's armor was heavily damaged, no doubt a result of the two Risen pummeling at it. She had been observing the others for a while but was unsure what to say. And now her very own parents stood before her.

"Father! Mother! I thought I sensed the presence of great warriors... But I never imagined..."

"I sensed the same thing myself," said Sully. "And here you are."

"Looks like you're still in one piece!" Vaike added.

"But...how? You couldn't have survived! ...Could you?

Sully shook her head. "You're asking the wrong people, kid. We're not from this world—meaning me and your mother are two different people. Same thing with this nut. Long story short, we were summoned from a faraway place to save you.

"You're my parents from another world?"

"Yeah. And you're our daughter from another world. Crazy, isn't it?"

Her eyes began tearing up. "You're really them..."

"Uh...what's with the cryin'?" asked Vaike. "Ain't ya happy to see me? Relax, kid. Teach here's gonna protect ya, so no more waterworks, all right?"

"I...I'm sorry, Dad... It's just... I was just about to give up... The one thing you told me never to do! I was going to abandon this world... Abandon my friends! I'm so sorry!"

He nudged Kjelle's arm. "Heeey...take it easy, squirt! You're still alive, ain't ya? All ya gotta do is buck up and get those Gemstones back to Ylisse. Easy peasy!"

"You seem to be one hell of a survivor, kid." Sully added. "Couldn't have raised you better myself! Seriously, though, I'm proud of you, Kjelle."

"Proud? I've brought you nothing but shame. However hard I try, I can't seem to change the fate of this world. None of us can. We're not like you—the generation of heroes... When you all died, it fell to us to keep the peace, and we weren't strong enough. I mean, even now, in the middle of a mission to save the world...I was ready to give up. I'm pathetic!"

"That's a load of crap. You'd have to be blind not to see the fire in those eyes! You haven't given up on squat. You're still here, and you're still fighting. So stand up. Get back on your feet before I take you across my knee!"

"Y-yes, ma'am!"

"That's my girl!" exclaimed Vaike.

"And thanks, both of you. If we can just get through this fight, I know I can handle the rest by myself... Will you help me a little longer?

"You're damn right we will!" the couple said in unison.


"Please hurry, Gaius. The other Cynthia is the only person left. I hope we're not too late..."

Sumia was standing by a working Gaius. After learning that the other group lost Anna before they could rescue the last child, she grew worried for her daughter's safety. Chrom was nearby talking to Lucina about what had just occurred while the other Shepherds were dispatching the remaining Risen.

"I'm sorry, Father. I should have acted faster..."

"It's not your fault, Lucina. You had the right to be cautious."

"But I could've just unknowingly sent Anna to her death!"

"Anna's more than capable of taking care of herself. Right now, we need to focus on the children's safety."

"Hey, Blue!" Gaius called out. "I got it open! Better hurry! Your wife just charged right in!"

"What? G-Gods! Sumia!"

By the time Chrom got inside, the bodies of Risen were already lying on the floor. Sumia was also dismounted and approaching a bewildered Cynthia.

"M-Mother?! How is this possible?! What are you doing he— BWAAAH!" The young falcon knight had tripped.

"Cynthia? Are you okay? You need to watch your footing around here or you'll tri— AAARGH!" Like her daughter, Sumia followed suit. "Gods...that one hurt my knee almost as much as my pride..."

"Well, I guess that settles it. You really ARE my mother. But...what are you doing here? I thought...I thought you were dead."

"Oh, sweetheart... I'm not the Sumia you once knew. I came from another world to save you and your friends. But I can't stay."

"You came from another world? And once you're finished here, you have to go back?"

"Yes. I'm sorry."

"You don't need to apologize! I'm super grateful for any help you can give us! And once we've gotten through this, we can totally handle the rest ourselves. We made it this far without your help, after all. But I suppose I might still...miss you...a little..."

"Oh, Cynthia..." She held her arms out. "Come rest your head in my arms and forget it all, just for a moment."

"...No. Thank you, but...I can't. I'm feeling better now, so...uh... You can go."

"What...?"

"It's just...the longer you're here, the harder it'll be when you leave. I don't want to end up bawling and begging you to stay with me forever."

"Oh, Cynthia... You're such a brave girl. But bravery isn't the answer to everything. I want you to take care of yourself, okay? Know that even when I'm back in my world, I'll be thinking of you. And no matter how far away I am, a part of me will always be here with you. Don't you ever forget that."

"I won't. Thank you...Mother. I'm glad I got to see you again."

"Before I go, I think someone else wants to see you."

Sumia turned her daughter's attention to Chrom.

"...Cynthia?"

"F-Father?! Is that really you?!"

"Yes and no. Like Sumia said, I came here from another world through a place called the Outrealm Gate. The divine dragon granted us a brief visit to your world in the hope that we could help."

"Wait...You were sent by Naga?!

"Yes. Cynthia...I'm so sorry. I understand it was my death in this world that set this whole tragedy in motion..."

"Father, please...don't be sad. You were a great hero and the exalt! I can't bear to see you looking so down. I worshiped you growing up... You were—you are my hero! What do you think Lucina would say if she saw you looking this glum?"

"Lucina...? Is she still in Ylisse?"

"Yes. She's defending Ylisse by herself while we collect the Gemstones. That's why we have to win this fight! If we don't return, all hope is lost!"

"Then I swear I'll do everything in my power to see you safely home to Ylisse."

"Thank you, Father. I just need you to lend me your strength for today. If you can get us out of here, I know we can handle the rest ourselves. We won't let this happen again. We'll prove that we can protect everyone!"

"Well said, Cynthia. I'll be ready to leave this world in your capable hands."

"Thanks. I won't let you down. And I'll fight all the harder knowing I have the faith of the greatest hero of all..."

"...C'mon, Captain," Sumia said as she took her husband's hand. "Let's go..."


"Our enemy seems to be defeated. The day is won. Though...not by us. This victory was given to us by those brave warriors from afar. Perhaps Mother and Father saw our pitiful plight from up in heaven... They must have gone to Naga to appeal for her help. Mother, Father...thank you. I know you've always protected me. But you can rest your vigil now. I will never be weak like that again. Now it's my turn to protect this world you fought and died for. I'll repay this salvation by saving the world you loved so dearly. I swear it! Never again will I yield to my enemy! Never again will I let myself be cornered! So be at peace as you watch me from heaven. Heaven and...the other world."

"The Risen are all dead...? We're...saved?! And it looks like everyone made it! Oh, thank the gods! I hope the warriors from another world fared as well... Another world, huh...? I never thought I'd see either of my parents again, but...there you were. It was odd that you looked so young, but it still brought back a flood of memories... Thank you. For coming to save us. And for talking with me one last time. I know it's not the same... You came from a different world, but still... Your coming here filled me with courage. Enough to sustain me from here on out. We can handle things from here—I promise. Together, we're going to save this world!"

"It...it's over?! And I'm not dead? I'm still alive?! This is so strange... It's like my brain is wrapped in a fog. It feels like a dream... Oh, gods, wait—is that what this is? Is this all just a dream?! Hmm... Let me just give myself a little pinch and... YOW! Okay...definitely not a dream! Whew... Dear Mother and Father... I know you won't believe this, but...I actually saw you today! I mean, I know it wasn't the real you, but still. It was like you came down from heaven to save me. I was so happy! I guess this means I won't be reunited with you guys as soon as I'd thought. Not that I'm complaining. I've got a long life ahead of me now, so I'd better make the most of it. I'm pretty sure you'd want it that way, after all. Isn't that right?"

"It's over... I...I get to go home after all... I still can't believe it. Separated, trapped, disarmed... And still we walk away? After everything I said... Naga sent a miracle after all. And I got to meet my family... I never thought I'd know my mother or father. We only exchanged a few words... We touched for just a few moments... But those moments filled me with such warmth. For a moment I...had a family... Oh, gosh. My eyes are welling up again! But this is no time to cry. I need to reclaim my dragonstone and find the others. Being alive never felt better... This is a gift I mustn't waste! We can't afford to tarry. We need to get these Gemstones back to Ylisse!"


"That's the last of the Risen, Captain."

The Shepherds were gathered outside behind the château. Most were resting now, completely exhausted from eliminating the Risen.

"Excellent work, Shepherds," said Chrom. "You've done a incredible job today."

Nah sighed. "I thought my dragonstones were going to expire..."

"Maybe you shouldn't have gotten all fired up!" teased Nowi.

"Hey, those Risen were getting close to my- Er...the other me's room!"

"Speaking of alternate kids," said Sully, "any of you got to talk with them?"

"None of us did," replied Kjelle. "We weren't sure how they would react to seeing another version of themselves."

"Well technically we do," Cynthia continued, "but it wouldn't be pretty..."

"I can attest to that," said Henry. "Alternate Noire thought Tharja and I were illusions meant to deceive her at first."

"S-Sorry about that..." said Noire.

"I think it was for the best," said Chrom. "They've had enough overwhelming emotions stirred after seeing their deceased parents."

"So what now?" asked Vaike. "While we're still here, shouldn't we escort the kids back to Ylisse or as far as we can?"

"Naga told us our time here was short," said Donnel. "I reckoned she meant we'd only have enough time to help them out of this here place."

"So what then?" asked Tharja. "Just wait around like sitting ducks until Naga's power wears off?"

"Wait, Tharja," said Sumia. "Are you glowing?"

"Uh, I think we have more important things to worry about than our skin complexions..."

"No, Tharja," said Lucina. "You really AREglowing!"

"Hm? Well, so are the others..."

Bright light began radiating from each of the Shepherds' bodies. Once a person was completely consumed, as demonstrated by Donnel, he disappeared in a quick flash. There was only one concern, Lucina was the only person not experiencing this.

"Lucina!" Chrom exclaimed. "Why aren't you...!"

"I... I don't know!"

"Hurry! Take my hand!"

Lucina stood horrified as her fellow Shepherds disappeared one by one, then her mother, and finally it was only her and Chrom.

"Lucina!"

The princess grabbed her father's hand, but even then she could feel his physical body slipping away. Soon she held nothing but air, now alone in a dark hostile world.


"Guys! Thank the gods you're okay!"

The alternate children were able to reunite on an old trail nearby the château. Cynthia was the last one to arrive, riding on her pegasus.

"I had made my peace with death," said Kjelle, "but...those warriors saved us. ...Hm? Where did they go? They were just here a moment ago..."

"Huh? They're right over— Wait, what? You're right! They're gone! Every last one of them... Wow, disappeared without saying a word. Talk about your heroic departures..."

"I never even got a chance to thank them..." said Noire. "If they hadn't shown up, I'm sure we'd...we'd all be dead by now..."

"Yeah, no kidding..."

"Cynthia..." said Nah. "I owe you an apology."

"Huh? What for?"

"For insisting there was no such thing as miracles. I'd never truly believed in that sort of thing before, but... Well, how else can you describe it? That was an honest-to-gods miracle. Naga must have been touched by your unyielding faith, Cynthia."

"Nah..."

"I even heard Naga's voice this time. 'Don't give up,' she said. Just a faint whisper from far, far away, but...enough to make me believe again. The gods do exist. Miracles can happen. And even this world can be saved."

"Yes! It definitely can! Man, we're gonna do such a number on Grima! And then we can finally see what it's like to lead normal, happy lives for a change! That's what you said you wanted, right, Noire?"

"I...I guess it was!" the sniper said thankfully. "To think that day might actually come... Even I can't help but be a little optimistic after what we just witnessed."

"Hey, slow down, everyone." Kjelle told them. "Don't go getting spoiled by what happened. The gods aren't going to bail us out every time we run into trouble. So no more counting on miracles, all right? We need to get back to relying on our combat potential. And by 'we', I mean 'all of you'."

"But, Kjelle, weren't you the one just saluting our unexpected strength and bravery...?"

"What, that? That was just me blowing smoke to make you all feel better. Come on, I thought we were gonna die! You're supposed to say stuff like that."

"Ha! Well...I guess I'll just forget that ever happened, then."

"...Good."

"Back in drill-sergeant mode already, Kjelle?" asked Cynthia. "Guess that means the party's over. Onward to Ylisse! Lucina's probably scowling at her pocket watch as we speak..."

Nah nodded. "Indeed. The sooner we get back, the sooner we can perform the Awakening."

"I hope everyone else is okay..." said Noire. "Do you think they all made it back safely?

"I'm sure they're all fine," Kjelle assured her. "Although they're probably getting tired of waiting on us!"

"You think we're the last ones? Eek! We'd better get moving!"

"Huh? Noire, hang on—don't run ahead! It isn't safe! Being saved by a miracle doesn't mean you can't get your fool self killed, you know!"

Nah sighed. "Running off half-cocked again... So much for life-changing lessons. I'll switch into dragon form and go catch her."

"Yeah," said Cynthia, "that's probably for the best... Thanks, Nah."

"I'll see you in a bit!"

With her recovered dragonstone, Nah transformed and flew after the sprinting sniper. Meanwhile, Cynthia mounted her pegasus and prepared for departure.

"Well, that was one heck of a day... But we're safe now, and hopefully the rest of the crew is too. ...Thanks, brave warriors of the Outrealms. You've taught us to never give up hope!"

Before she could fly off, the falcon knight suddenly heard a rustle within the bushes. She quickly brandished her lance and shouted a warning.

"Who's there?! Show yourself!"

"Cynthia?" Lucina called out. "Is it just you now?"

The rider lowered her weapon. "L-Lucina?! But how did you...?! Is the capital still...?!"

"Calm down, Cynthia. Everything's fine. I have a lot of explaining to do though..."

"..."

"Cynthia?"

"No need," she said smiling. "You're from the other world, aren't you?"