Fire Emblem Alternative - Dark Chronicles

Summary: We have heard the stories. Of the Great Exalt whom hailed as the reincarnation of the Hero King. Of the Shepherds, who never back down from invaders. Of the children, who crossed through time and space to save the future.

Now hear the tale, of a selfish woman and her sacrifice. If you want to make things right, do it over again at the beginning. By yourself.

Disclaimer: I don't own Fire Emblem series nor any of it creative content. This is purely made from my passion and love for the story and the characters. All music references belong to their respective performer, creator, musician & studio, I made no profit from them.

"Talking"

This for Thinking, Flashback, Transmission or Whispering"

"Summon/Mind talking, SFX"


Chapter 01 - Time Beckons

" What is the job of a strategist ? A tactician ? Many would say : to claim the victory. Even most of our practitioner said so. But that is only half true. Our goal is to win, but with the least casualty possible. For in war, it was not only soldiers that got swept in the tide of conflicts and tragedies. And not all of them desire war... - Mark, the Wise Wolf of Lorca tribe. "

Closing the book in his hand, the boy fell back, resting against the pile of luggage behind him. Locks of silver haired fell into his line of view. He blew them away before closing his eyes to rest.

His body swayed along with the cart's movement. The sky is clear, the clouds are high and the wind, perfect. The eight years old boy wouldn't mind taking a nap then...

" You're suppose to be studying, lil' brother."

He groaned and looked over to his side. He totally forgot about her. The book was too dam good, he admit.

" Sister ~ Let me rest. I've been reading that book nonstop."

In spite of his deadly puppy eyes techniques, Aversa gave him a dead panned look. The beautiful dark skinned girl crawled over, took the book and slammed it over his head.

" Ouch !"

" That is your fault. You were suppose to spend one hour reading THIS book before switching over to the arcane tome of magic. Mother said so."

" ...But it was too good. I couldn't stop."

" You lack self-control and calmness. Which was why you were still unable to cast a lightning spell correctly."

Aversa never meant to hurt her brother with that comment. But the mind of a kid could only take it as one. His body stiffened in anger before shouting at her.

" If you're so good at it, why don't you study it alone ?! I don't need magic to become a great tactician anyway !"

The boy stood up, continued to yell at his sister.

" I should have never ask mother to bring y-"

Before he could finish his line, the cart they rode in suddenly came to a stop, the horse let out a loud neigh. Both the boy and the young girl lost their balance, especially the boy, for he was standing up. He stumbled over the edge of the cart and was about to fall down.

The boy tried to regain his balance. But he couldn't. So he closed his eyes, hoping that the fall wouldn't hurt too much.

" Rowen !"

Aversa quickly tugged at his ebony shirt and pulled it with all her might. Rowen fell forward right into her body. When he opened his eyes, he expected her to be angry, to berate him for being careless. But instead, she showed him a caring smile... Like she used to before they got sent to the Temple for a one year magic study.

" ... When did she change ?" The boy wondered.

" Or it is me that was the one who change ?"

The little boy pushed himself off his sister's body, looking a tad bit guilty.

" Get down, both of you." From the front of the cart, their mother ordered.

They flinched at her stern and angry face. " Now."

Her voice left no place for argument. They both got down from their ride and lined up before Tharja. The old mistress of Dark Art gave them a hard look. What had gone wrong, she wondered. For a year she sent Rowen and Aversa to a temple in Ylisse to lean Anima Magic, so she could be free to make preparation for the inevitable future.

She expected them to depend on each other, to look out for each other. But no. Rowen turned into a jealous kid with a inferiority complex. Aversa somehow turned out as she expected. Aloof and calm. Though not all like her future self. For Tharja noticed the hurted look the girl was having.

Judging by the way she held her body with both hands, the young girl must had heard what Rowen said...

" Rowen." He looked up when she called. " Do you truly mean what you said ?"

The boy stuttered and started shaking. He was scared and angry... also feeling guilty.

" I never reject you anything, son. We. Never reject you anything. Let it be love or knowledge."

What she said was true, Rowen admitted. For as long as he could remember. Mother never refused him. Not when he desired to learn Magic, even Elder magic. When he wanted to learn warfare and strategic, she bought him the rarest book they could find. The book he was reading before was a gift from Aversa, for his birthday.

It was a very old and rare book. The diary of an ancient tactician even before the age of the Hero King, Marth. He knew it costed Aversa a fortune to buy the book for him.

Then Rowen realized the fact that he was pampered... too much.

" Walk with me, Aversa. Rowen, stay on the cart. Yell if anything happens. We won't be long."

" Yes, mother." The dark beauty obediently followed her foster mother into the woods.

Away from Rowen's sight and hearing. Setting himself on the cart once again, the boy tried to kill time by reading his book. But every thirty seconds, he would turned and looked at the direction where his mother and sister had been gone.

He was getting anxious. What if mother did follow his words and... abandoned Aversa. Thinking about it made Rowen's body shivered with fear and guilt. He did not mean what he said. He loves his sister. He loves playing casting spells with her. He loves the way she tends to him, her cooking, her nagging about his bad habits.

Rowen imagined the day he no longer have Aversa with him... He did not like it. He afraid of it. He hated being scared. In order to distract himself, the boy went back to the book in his lap... It did not turn out well.

" For a short time, I've been jealous of Rath and Lyn. For they were strong, talented... and connected. Then after awhile, I realized I was being stupid, childish. Connections were made when two people desired to be connected. For roads are made when people travelled on them. You cannot accomplish anything by just sitting around and comparing yourself to others.

I realized that strength did not come easily and without pain. Like Hector always said when he beat me to the ground during our spar: Remember the pain and measures it against your desire to be strong, to protect what's important to you.

He said before ambition and glory, there is always family and friends. That, I have to agree. Hector'll make a fine Marquis one day. - Mark, the Wise Wolf of Lorca tribe."


Away from the cart and Rowen, Tharja was having a serious conversation with Aversa. One that would decided whether she would keep the ashen skinned Plegian with them or not.

" How old are you now, child ?" The old sorceress asked.

" I'll be fifteen in three months."

" The age of delicacy and complication. The time when one's mind starting to take shape... Tell me, Aversa, do you resent Rowen for what he said. For his change in personality and action ? Be honest with me, child."

" ... His words hurt me so. We fought a lot over the year. But he never said something like that to me. I was.. appalled."

Tharja patiently waited for the girl to finish. She needed to know, if Aversa was still willing to be with Rowen and support him. If not, they would have to part in the near future. Considering what kind of person Aversa would become in the future. Tharja might be force to make her disappear... permanently.

" But I do not resent him for that. For I know Rowen did not mean it."

A weight was lifted from Tharja's heart as she heard those words.

" Why are you so sure, Aversa ? He is a child. And children tend to be honest."

" Tactless and emotional too, mother. He was confused, angry and scared. Because of the hardships we went through at the Temple. The lessons and pressure were too much for a mere seven years old child. Even I had a hard time with it... Do you know that I was bullied and harassed during our time at the Temple ?"

Tharja showed no visible reaction. Her face remained the same, impassive and cold.

" Because of my Plegian traits, my skin color and my hair. I was picked on, to the point of sexually. But because of that, I trust Rowen more than anyone else. For he has defended me."

An amused smile appeared on Aversa's face as she remembered.

" Got beaten to a bloody pulp in the process. But still trying his best to protect me. I was once a kid too, mother. I knew how he felt and why he acted like that. I will never blame him for his mistake. For I know that deep in his heart, Rowen really care about me. And I to him."

Tharja observed her pseudo daughter and liked what she was seeing. One of the thing she liked and hated about the future seductress was her undying loyalty. Even in her last moment, Aversa tried her best to kill them. In order to avenge her dead master, Validar. Perished in the flame of Grima while trying to.

And now, she was showing the same loyalty to Rowen, might be as well to Tharja, but Rowen alone is enough.

" ... Rowen has a great burden on his shoulders, Aversa. One that would decide the fate of this world. He has no control over it. That is something I am trying to fix."

Tharja's voice became sharp and hard as she continued.

" No god is allowed to reign over man's destiny. We shape our own fate and make our own decision. One day, Rowen will face his own destiny, might as well be facing against a god. For that, he needs friends, allies. Not just mere supporters.."

Stepping forward and lifted young Aversa's chin, looking straight at her golden eyes, Tharja continued.

" He needs those who he could trust and loyal to him. I admit I am trying to groom him into the best man there is, in prepare for his fight. Also grooming you to be his most trusted confidant. But only if you are willing. For I know what happens when one's faith wavered. Doubt is the seed of betrayal, child."

Aversa swallowed hard, feeling nervous as those onyx eyes peered down into her. Piercing her souls...

" Do you doubt Rowen ? Feeling doubt of what he will become in the future ?"

The young mage could feel how important the question mean to her mother. She thought about Rowen, about their relationship. Their interaction in the past three years. How the they felt about each other...


Months ago at the Temple of Naga...

" Aiiieee it's hurttttt, sister. Be gentle please."

Little Rowen wailed as she attempted to apply the vulnerary on the scratches on his body, starting with his cheek.

" Stay still, little man. If you got the gut to pick a fight with those brutes then you should prepared for the pain that came next. What made you think you could go against four older boys double your size and get out unscratched ?!"

" Because they're making you feel uncomfortable ! And I don't like seeing you being uncomfortable."

He puffed out his cheeks, trying to look angry. But only make him looked more adorable in her eyes.

" I could have taken care of myself. They would give up eventually. Now that they got a reaction out of you, they'll come back fore more. That's how bullies are."

" B-Bu-But... I..." Little Rowen tried to come up with an excuse, but failed miserably.

" ... I made it worse for you, didn't I ?"

" Yes you did... But thank you, lil' brother. For standing up against me. I'm truly grateful."

Hearing that, the boy's face brighten up immediately. A bright smile appeared on his face, directing at her. Aversa returned with her own smirk, squatting him on the back, right on his bruise. Making him let out a yelp of pain.

" Next time, think before you act. Or at least talk to me. We could have make a payback plan later. Instead of becoming a joke show for everyone at the grand hall."

Rowen sheepishly smiled. " Yeah... But no promises if you're really in danger."

" I know brother. I know..."


Smiling at the memory, Aversa steeled herself as she made her answer.

" No matter who or what he will become, I know he would never betray his family. Nor would I."

Tharja walked passed the young girl, stopping just behind her and spoke once more.

" Remember what I said, child. Fate has much in store for him, so does you. Be prepared for it... And keep this conversation a secret until you deem he is ready to know."

Aversa stood still for a second before turning and following her mother. She thought about what they talked about, Rowen's fate, mother's action, her role in all this...

" Why was mother talks like she wouldn't be there when they are ready ?"

Before she could let her question known, however, their cart came into view. They saw little Rowen sitting at the edge, swinging his legs and looking around nervously. When he saw him, his face lit up. But when he noticed the grim look on both of their face, he became nervous once more.

He jumped out of the cart, standing before them. Before they could asked him what was wrong, Rowen launched himself at Aversa and hugged her tightly.

" Please don't leave. I-I'm sorry. I never meant to say that. Please, just don't leave me. I'll do anything ! Mother, please don't make sister leave ! I don't want her to go."

The poor boy literally begged in tears, his voice broken, sobbing while hugging his sister. In the past twenty minutes, Rowen was haunted with the scenario where Aversa would be abandoned or left his family. The pain, the loneliness, the life without his dear sister. It broke him.

He was afraid that his mother would come back without his sister. So when he saw them together, Rowen was so happy that he cried.

The boy's sudden affection surprised Aversa. While she didn't blame him for his angry cursing, she totally did not expect him to care so much about her right after. Not that soon. He was so...

" You are a gullible one, aren't you lil' brother ?"

" He really is."

Tharja commented on them shifting back to her old sarcastic tone. Before returning back to her voice of steel.

" You're jealous because Aversa is more talented in magic than you. But you forget the fact she is more talented because she spent more time in magic than you. Rowen, you have your strategy study to tend to, not just your magic study."

He looked as guilty as he could be, once more pressing his face into Aversa's body. The young Plegian girl cooed and pet his hair, while giving their mother a glance. Questioning her action. Tharja only shook her head and continued.

"Son, you feel inferior to others. While the only one who look down on you is no other than yourself. To be a master of multiple arts is no small task. Don't sell yourself short, Rowen."

Tharja's voice softened at the last line. Both children could feel the gentleness and caring in her tone. Rowen, still hugging Aversa, nodded before releasing her. He muttered sorry once more while wiping his tears.

Aversa, being an understanding big sister, pet his soft and silvery hair while ensuring him it was okay. For she did not hate him for what he said. Tharja watched their interaction with a tint of jealousy and happiness. As quickly as those thought came, she shook them off and resumed her duty.

" Words are freely spoken, Rowen. But once said, cannot be returned. Do you understand what I am saying ?"

The old sorceress said in her lecture voice. Rowen nodded, realizing then how badly one can hurt others by saying the wrong things. Even if they did not really mean to.

Tharja came to the cart and took out two tomes from their luggage. She tore off a page from a tome before tugging said tome back into the bag.

" You said you became angry because you fail to cast a lightning spell properly... Then this is your test... also double as a punishment."

Giving the boy the remaining tome and the piece of paper, she continued.

" This tome carries the pages for the Lightning spell, which you need to master before you can learn to cast the spell in the piece of paper. You have two weeks before we arrive at our destination. Failing to cast the spell before then, I will sent you back to the Temple for another three months... Alone."

Rowen flipped through the tome, recognizing the diagrams and runes for the lightning spell written on them. He glanced over the piece of paper... It looked much more complicated than the Lightning spell, but carrying the same arrangements and diagrams. Rowen noticed one thing...

" There's only one page." He looked at his mother, looking for answer. But none came. Realization came to him soon.

" ... I only have one chance ?"

" Let this be a lesson for you in the future, son. I smell a rain coming. Get on the cart, we're moving."

With swiftness that seemed impossible for her age, Tharja got back on the cart and took the reign once more. Her children climbed on and settled down. The cart moved again, riding on the dirt road. The sun above already hidden behind a high column made of cloud.

" This is impossible."

Rowen muttered while reading the tome in his hand. Two weeks to learn how to cast a high grade Lightning spell. He could not even manage to cast a basic one without shocking himself. He did not want to go back to the temple. Not to mention alone.

" It's alright, lil' brother. I'll help and give you some lessons."

Aversa sat next to him, wrapping her hand around his head and pulled him closer.

" But mother said-"

" She never mentioned that you need to do it alone." Before he could finished, she pointed out.

" Don't shoulder the burden all by yourself, Rowen. Learn to share them and together, we'll find away to solve it. That's what family are for."

" ... You're right, sister. Just watch me ! I'll cast this spell perfect before we make it to the next town !"

Before the next town, he didn't. For it was only a day that they reached it. But well, Rowen managed to cast his first Thoron in the span of a week. Not a perfect one because it missed the mark, setting a corner of the forest on fire. Rowen got berated for his carelessness by both his mother and sister.

But it was still a full powered Thoron, the spell that would soon become his trademark in the world of mercenary.


Two weeks later...

The small family arrived at a cave. The cart moved slowly inside , passing through gigantic columns that support the construct. The horse's hooves clacking against the marble stone floor as they went deeper.

It was too dark for them to make out how the place looks. Their only source of light was the torch Aversa was holding. But the children weren't afraid. For they knew mother would never hurt them... badly.

After a few minute, the cart stopped. Tharja got off her seat and walked to a wall. Her hand traced against the symbol carved on it. She chanted an ancient incantation. The symbol came to life, light pulsing around it before spreading through the whole, lighting the whole place in a blueish color...

" We're here, come, children, set up camp. We'll be living here for a few years."

Both children were too shock and amazed to follow their mother's command. They were standing in the middle of a mystic temple, almost gothic, both the ground, the wall and the ceiling were lit up with a pale blue light. It felt like they were in another world.

" Close your mouth and get down."

Aversa and Rowen closed their mouth with a click sound. They looked at each other, smirking.

" My tent will be on that corner."

" No way ! I see it first ! You're suppose to dote on the younger sibling !"

" What about respect for the elder ?!"

" You're only fifteen !"

Tharja let out a tiring sigh and continued with her setup. Moving the horse to a corner where a patch of shining grass was growing, she tied it there. The horse was suspicious of the strange shining grass, it smelled the grass and nip a small bite... Deeming the grass digestible, it continued to eat in earnest.

Turning back, she took time to observe both children...

" They'll be just fine."

Thought Tharja, watching Rowen helped his sister with the luggage. The boy finally decided that a girl needed a secure corner much more than a boy his age. He was still bickering about it though. Tharja smiled in amusement.

Before her chest tightened at a sudden wave of pain that hit her body... And she collapsed.

Rowen suddenly felt unease and looked around. He noticed the lack of his mother's presence and started calling for her. Once and twice, no answer. The boy started getting worried. He moved behind the cart and, much to his relief, saw her there, resting against the wheel... She was sweating and looked much in pain.

" Mom, did something happen ? You look pale..." As soon as he asked, Aversa appeared and started wiping the old sorceress's face with a piece of clean cloth.

" Just a bit tired because of old age, son. Nothing a few minutes rest cannot fix."

Despite her reason, Rowen couldn't help but feeling something was wrong. Very wrong.

" Brother, why don't you finish with the setting up so mother can have a place to rest ? I'll watch over her while you do."

Trusting that his sister would take good care of their mother, Rowen grudgingly agreed and went back to work. All while Aversa was trying to take care of Tharja, starting with cleaning the sweat on her face. The ashen skinned girl had a pained look on her face.

" Mother... I notice the symptoms from my study at the temple." The young girl whispered. " How much time you have left ?"

" ... Enough to make sure you two will be ready. Even if I am not there to witness it."

Tharja pushed the girl's hand away and stood up on her own. Years of practicing forbidden magic, especially what she prepared to do, took tolls on her body. How old was she then ? Fifty-six ? Sixty ? She lost count. Or did not care anymore. For a practitioner of Elder Magic, she is considered to be long-lived already.

As she was about to collapse once more, Aversa appeared by her side and helped her up by the hand... She still doubt the Plegian girl, that much was true. But maybe, just maybe, Aversa would do well in her place, taking care of Rowen when her time comes...

" I might have a year or two." The old woman spoke as she moved together with her daughter.

" After that, it's up to you to guide him... Are you prepare for that, Aversa ?"

" ... You need not to ask mother. My life is to be by Rowen's side."

At that declaration, Tharja realized that Aversa might as well took her own place by Rowen's side. Even in the future. It scared her. That would not do... She knew which card to play then.

" Child, you might decided to be with Rowen on your own. But remember, Rowen also has his own decision. One day, he will choose to be with someone else. What would you do then ? Will you turn your back on him then ?"

At first, she was confused. Then Aversa realized what her mother meant. They weren't related by blood. They could be just more than brother and sister. As their body grows with time, so does their mind and affection for each other. Normally, the girl would marry off and leave the family. But Aversa already decided to be with Rowen, always.

That only mean to be with him as man and woman. Not brother and sister.

But that only apply if Rowen felt the same way... Just like their mother said, Rowen would eventually met another girl, fell in love with her and she would be cast away... Would she ? Rowen was never the type to leave others be on their own.

" I believe, when things come to be... Rowen will make the right decision." Answered the young girl with a decisive tone.

" And no matter what decision he made, I will be by his side. Tis I swear."


Like Tharja declared the moment they entered the cave, the small family spent almost two years inside the Ruin of Times. The next day after setting down, both Rowen and Aversa performed the ritual that will allow them to cast Elder magic, nor Dark magic like mundane people likes to call.

The ritual was frowned upon not only by its considered dark origins. But also because of the requirements, those who participate in the ritual must be bare of all clothing, their body painted with blood from an animal. Which is why all Dark Mage were seen wearing skimpy, almost see through clothes.

For Elder Magic is best responsive to those who were nearest to human's origin. The ritual boosted their body with energy from the earth, hardened them, making them stronger. Which was why despite being called mages, Dark Mages were always presence on the front line.

It was also the first time Aversa acted like a normal shy girl, ever since she joined the family. Little Rowen was just too young to be conscious about nakedness and other stuffs.

Their schedules during the years were similar. Woke up in the morning, practicing Anima Magic and hunt for food at the same time, rest for lunch, studying magic concept and strategic books in the afternoon and finally, Elder Magic at night. With the basic they learned from the Temple, Tharja was able to teach them higher tier of magic.

none of them could learn to use starves nor healing magic at the moment. But that would be expected. Rowen still have to learn physical combat skills in the near future.

A future without her...


Two years later...

Rowen, ten years old then, still dressed in the same dark purple pants and ebony white Plegia shirt, was riding on his family's horse on the dirt road, through the forest. Both the mount and the rider were sweating from the stress and exhaustion. The nearest village took half a day on horse back to ride forth and back.

Six hours, he had been gone for six hours. The young boy hoped he would make it in time.

The horse entered the cave, passing through the blue lit construct before came to a stop before a familiar set of tents. The horse rose up and neighed at the stop. Rowen threw himself off to the ground before the horse even landed on its front hooves.

" Mother ! Sister ! I got the medicine !"

The boy yelled as soon as he pushed the tent's flap open. Coming face to face with a beautiful ashen skinned girl, sharing the same silvery hair, Aversa. At the age of seventeen, she had grown and became a very attractive girl. With a sharp face and curvy body that defines that term femme fatale pretty well.

But at the moment, her usual aloof expression and coy smile was lost. Replacing with a grim and depression look. She heard the horse's hooves echoed the moment Rowen entered the cave. Instead of being in haste and panic, she calmly walked to the flap and waited for him.

When the boy shoved the salves of medicine in her hands, expecting her to use them... Aversa only shook her head.

" I told you, Rowen. It is no use..." The young boy's face paled, from both the exhaustion and from what he heard.

Before Rowen could react and yelled at his sister, she continued.

" Don't waste anymore time, brother. Go to her. Let her see and hear you for the last time."

The boy's face went through many emotional changes, from shock, anger, sad and finally, acceptance. Tears fell through his eyelids as Rowen held back his tears and walked pass Aversa.

On the back of the tent, lying still was their mother. No longer the strong, stoic and scary woman she used to be. Tharja looked pale then, almost white as a sheet. Her peaceful expression along with her soft breathing made it look like she had already gone to the other side.

The thought clenched Rowen's heart.

One year after they moved into the cave, Tharja's health started deteriorating at a scary pace. She collapsed more often, writed in pain during her sleep, her limbs became unresponsive.

The children did their best to take care of her while completing their studying duty. Once a week, Rowen and Aversa would take turn to ride into the village to trade the things they got from the forest for medicine. Once a week soon turned into once in three days and finally once a day.

" Rowen..."

She called his name as Rowen kneeled beside the bed, scooping her hand into his and holding tight.

" Foolish child. I already told you... It is time already... But you did not listen... You're really just like him."

Recently, she would compare him with another man, most likely his father. Mother never talked about father, not even when Rowen asked about him. She would become angry and forbid him to even ask again.

So for her to talk about him then, it scared Rowen. It showed that his mother's time was near.

" I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Please don't leave me."

The boy started sobbing, his body shook as the tried to hold back from crying out loud. Tharja was hurt too, for doing this to him. Rowen, even in her timeline, never suffered from losing a family member. If he did, he already forgot it when the amnesia strikes. The Exalt's sister was not that close to him.

But now, he was about to experience the pain of losing a family. Without being able to do anything about it. He was helpless, watching her wither away in his hands.

" I am sorry, Rowen. For making you feel like this." Tharja tried her best to smile, tightened the hand he was holding, letting him know that she means every words she said.

" Death is inevitable, son. No one can escape time. I can tell you that my time was... well spent. Especially with you two... rascals."

She tried to lighten the mood with her old sarcastic tone... that did not work. For Rowen was still sobbing.

" Rowen. Aversa. Don't mourn for me... too much. I am sorry that I have to leave you two so soon... But know that I will always be watching over you two. Especially you... mister cry baby... Here is my last order to you."

Rowen controlled himself and listened to her with his utmost attention. Aversa standing a meter behind them, but still listening intently.

" Nine years from now on, someone will attempt to throw the world into chaos... and war. The Exalt of Ylisse will be assassinated. I want you to prevent it from happening, protect the royalty line... protect the naive Exalt, make sure she will survive no matter what. Join them and make your own life in Ylisse. Promise me this, children of mine."

Aversa did not answer, only nodded. For whenever Rowen will be, she would follow him. Said boy was still shaking from his sobbing streak but managed to let out broken yet audible words of promising, that he would do as she asks. All while holding her hand to his head and crying silently.

Tharja move her hand to pet his soft and silvery hair for the last time... Before nodding towards Aversa. The young mage nodded before taking out a piece of cloth. She moved behind her little brother, hugging him before putting the cloth against his face.

Rowen did not react for he was not ready. Within a second, the boy fell limp in her hands. Aversa lifted the boy outside before coming back and did the same to her mother. She put them on the ground, right next to each other. The floor below them was painted with runes, symbols of magic, circles, triangles...

The ritual was ready.

Tharja was prepared to do the ritual alone if not for Aversa. It gave her another year to teach the girl everything she needed to know and giving her instruction for the future. Enough to make sure they would not stray too much from the original timeline and missing the important events.

Aversa never questioned her instruction nor how did she get the knowledge of the future.

Even about the ritual they were going to perform.

Aversa chanted the incantations, the marks below them glowed in red, Tharja could feel her consciousness slipping away. She smiled inwardly. Many things she was, but never a liar.

" I will always watching over you, Rowen..."


When he woke up, it was all over. She was gone, lying peacefully above the pile of hay on top the the mountain edge. Rowen and Aversa took turn carrying their mother up there. She was never a fan of burying.

Man was nothing but a pile of flesh, let it be rot within the earth or perished in the flame. Not inside a casket.

And the thought of their mother's body slowly decayed under the earth was not very welcomed.

They stood opposite to each other with their mother lying in the middle. They exchanged knowing a glance and put their hands forward. Saying the incantation, feeling the magic disappeared from a page in the tome on their body and went through their body.

Stream of fire came out of their hands, aiming at Tharja's body. Even when her body caught on fire, they did not stop. Not until everything was gone, turned to ash. They kept streaming fire for five minutes, then ten, finally fifteen.

Both the child and the young girl collapsed from overusing their magic. Beads of sweat ran through their face and body. But they got the result. Rowen was about to cast the next spell when Aversa stopped him and pointing to a shining object lying in the middle of the ashes.

... It was her ring.

Clutching the jewelry in his hand, the boy stepped back once more and casted a wind spell. A strong yet somehow gentle breeze passed by, carrying the ashes with them, to a better place.


Regna Ferox,

Inside the mess hall where soldiers were taking meals and drinks, an usual scene was occurring. With soldiers surrounding them, facing against each other with one's hand taking another's. Flavia and Basilio were having their friendly hand wrestling moment.

Two strongest soldiers of the kingdom, rivals but also best friends to each other. The soldiers did not know that it was arranged or not. But they would take turn to lose to each other, the winner never stayed to be long enough to claim the championship.

And today, it was not Basilio's turn to win.

" ARYYAAAA !" Flavia cried out as she pushed all of her strength into one strike.

CRACK!

The table below them crumbled to pieces with Flavia pressing Basilio into the ground. The soldiers shouted and howl in glee. Especially those who bet for the female warrior.

" You gotta be kidding me...!" Basilio asked in disbelief from the ground.

" Sorry oaf, but tis my win. Ha ha ha !"

" Heck no ! I demand a rematch !" The big man glared at her with his remaining right eyes.

They stood against each other, eyes flaring preparing for another brawl instead of a sportmatch. That was before a female soldier came through the crowd and separate them.

" I afraid I have to interrupt your match. You are needed at the gate, captain Basilio."

Said man blinked in surprised. Before breaking into a smile.

" Oh nice, another challenger. Gotta go whack some cocky asses now, later Flavia. Bwa ha ha ha."

He ran away before they could said anything.

" Dumb oaf, he did not even hear what it is about... So what it is about, anyway ?"

" Yes, captain. A pair of child and woman came asking to meet captain Basilio. They were carrying a badge that belongs to him."

" Hmmm interesting. That oaf claimed to lost the his badge two years ago... This, I have to see."

Flavia put her broadsword on her shoulder and walked to the direction which Basilio disappeared. Crossing through the snowy field and arrived at the gate. They were surprised to see a very calm and tamed Basilio talking with quite a beautiful ashen skinned girl.

Basilio was listening to her, nodding occasionally while holding the badge in his hand. He was wearing a look that every soldiers show when they receive the new of a friend passing away.

Flavia turned to the cart in the middle of the gate and noticed another silver haired sitting on it. A boy, a pretty young one at that. But he has a calm and sad look on his face. When he noticed her looking at him, he smiled softly and bowed to her.

" Quite a polite lad."

Then she took in their clothes. The girl was wearing a revealing dress, probably of Plegia orrigin but lacking the symbols and markings. The boy too, traditional dark purple pants and dark mage white ebony inner shirt, also lacking Grimleal's marks. They show traits of Plegian. But she got the feeling their clothing has another meaning to it...

" Oh you're here too, Flavia." Basilio noticed his rival walking to him. " Unfortunately, it's not another bunch of challengers from outside the wall."

" I can notice that you oaf... So what it is about ? I can see that your badge is back."

He smiled, a sad smile at that. " Yes, it is back. Sadly the one I gave it to did not make it... She's a friend and these, are her children."

Flavia noticed the respective tone he used. Basilio might be a crude one and a bit friendly with fellow comrades. But to be called a friend of his and gained his respect. The mother of these children must be one hell of a woman. Either a fiery warrior or a great mage.

Later Flavia would learn that she was a fiery mage.

" So ? What's her children doing here ? Don't tell me you're going to adopt them. We both know you're the last person on this planet fit to be a father."

" Oy watch it woman ! I have my soft and tender sides too, you know !"

Before the two great champions could continue with their bickering, the soldier followed Flavia coughed, reminding them that they were in front of children... and to stop acting like children. Both side glared at each other for a few secs before turning away from each other with a huff.

Rowen couldn't help but let out a short funny laugh. That caught the attention of many. For Aversa, she was glad because it was the first laugh she got from him after their mother passed away one week ago.

" Mister Basilio-"

" Just Basilio is fine, little girl. I ain't that old." He cut her off while petting her head gently.

" Yet." From beside him, Flavia chimed in.

" As I was saying." Aversa quickly conitnued before they starting fighting again.

" Our mother passed away one week ago. Before passing, she told me to go to Regna Ferox and look for you, captain Basilio. Asking for the favor several years ago."

The bald man looked at the badge in his hand, remembering the old yet fierce sorceress that saved his life from an ambush years go. He hated being in debt to others. But she did not ask for anything but a favor for the future... His badge was the proof of their encounter.

" Speak child, what do you wish of me ?"

" ... Me and my brother wish to learn to fight in the way of warriors. Regna Ferox's way. Five years, we'll stay and obey every instruction you gave us. After that, we'll be on our own way and not bothering you anymore."

" You talk about the path of mercenary, child." Flavia was the first to speak.

" Are you sure you're prepared for this. Soldiers of Regna Ferox train together and equally. Being children and woman mean nothing here. You will bleed, got injured, broken bones etc... Do you still want to learn our way ?"

" We are not mere children, madam." The child sitting on the cart answered her, much to the female champion's surprise.

" We are practitioner of Elder Magic. We know the meaning of pain clearer than anyone else. Beside, if we are weak at the moment... Then we only need to get stronger in the future."

Others would claim that he was bragging. But Flavia realized that it was not. He did not mean to be cocky when claiming to be a dark mage. He was stating a fact. The boy was just proud of his origin... Very.

" Get them inside and a room in the new recruit's quarter. I'll train them, personally."

Basilio gave the order. The female soldier saluted before signalled the brother and sister to follow them. A soldier came over and took hold of their horse's reign, leading the cart. Flavia and Basilio watched as they disappeared inside the castle.

" You did not ask if I agree or not." The woman questioned him.

" Oh please, with the line of question you just spouted at them. You might as well say I'll take them in already."

Flavia grunted but not objecting his claim.

" ... There's something special about them. About that boy."

" His name is Rowen... And yeah, I could feel it too. He's different... in a good way. I haven't seen that much determination and steel in one's eyes. Not since the day our King still leading battles against the Halidom."

" if you said so... Let's get in, you own me a drink for dragging me out here."

Basilio's eyes brows shot up at her claims. But he quickly shrugged it away and followed his fellow captain back into a mess hall. Might as well had a drink. Because starting tomorrow, he had two soldiers to train.

And once he trained someone, Basilio will make sure that they'll become the greatest of their generation.


Inside the green forest,

below the silver mountain,

deep into a blue cave.

Lies a golden ring,

rest before a gray tablet,

in the Ruin of Time.


Sharya,

passed October 11th,

A True Master of Elder Magic,

A Loving Mother,

Always Watching Over Us.


Author's Note: Hello and greetings, I officially announce that Fire Emblem Alternative - Dark Chronicles will be a series instead of one-shot. I spent about 4 days to complete writing this chapter. Not much of events in here, just character development and family interacting. Things to take note of:

_ Progatonist's name: Instead of Robin, I use the name Rowen. As in Rowen J. Ilbert from Tale of Xillia series. A respectable and great tactician of Rashugal army, later to the whole Rieze Maxia nation.

_ How to use spell: one page equals one use of magic. If no pages or diagrams were written down, incantations are required and would cost a lot of time to cast. Deeming unusable in combat.

_ Elder/Dark Magic: Dark Mage are generally used as tankers while dressing in nothing but normal(?) clothing made of cloth. Which made me came up with the theory of a dark ritual. Might as well be equal to the Shadowgift skill.

_ Mark, the protagonist from Fire Emblem game on GBA: yes I ship him with Lyn, beat it punk :V He will also become Rowen's inspiration and source of knowledge.

I guess that is enough at the moment. Tell me what do you think about Robin's childish reaction to Aversa, her devotion to him and Tharja's passing. It would help a lot with writing the story. :)

REview Answers! GO !

Xillax : Thank you, I play a year after it got released in NA. A bit late I guess, but never late to write a fanfiction XD And honestly, you're right. No one has ever write a story where a 1st gen shepherd made it back to the past. I'm doing my best ( with the grammars ) to write the best story I could. Hopefully being able to finish it :)

Guest: Right the feel right ? Another feel moment for you. I actually don't know if it was heart breaking enough though. Only readers can tell. Harem with future children ? I'll think about it. Maybe Nah or Cynthia. Because having Chrom as a father-in-law and Nowi as mother-in-law is very hillarious XD

Muggzy : :3 Dream come true isn't it ? Aversa and Robin (Mine is Rowen) got raised together ! And wreck havoc together too XD

Guest : Well every harem story has the same mistake: love at first sight. Aye you can use it once but to use it on every female character ? Please... It would soon become a bloodbath than a harem. Nice boat anyone ?

All criticism, challenges and ideas are welcomed !

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" Hmmm ~ Hm hmm ~ Hm hm hm hmm ~ " (Yosuga no Sora main song - Negai)

Up on the green hills, where the wind blows gently through the grass. One man rested his back on the ground and looking at the cloud above. While humming a melodic tune, which sounded sad and happy at the same time. His humming attracted the pair of royal siblings who was taking a ride with their trusted knight.

The girl was the first to react, dragging her brother along. There, up on the green hills, they met him.

Dressed in dark purple pants and an ebony white shirt,

silver hair reflected the sunlight with a bright smile.

" Oh hello, Chrom. We finally met."