-Chapter 6: Revelations-
Chrom, Robin, Frederick, Corrin, Rex, Pyra, Mythra, Nia and Dromarch walk down the halls of Castle Plegia. Eventually, meeting them partway is a face familiar to Chrom: Aversa.
"Greetings, Prince Chrom. Plegia welcomes you." says Aversa politely.
"Aversa!" says Chrom.
"What can I say?" says Aversa smugly. "It seems fate has designs for me yet."
"So THAT'S Aversa." says Corrin. "She definitely LOOKS like a femme fatale."
"Yeah, no kidding." says Nia. "She's got bad news written all over her."
"Indeed." says Dromarch.
"Yeah, I don't trust her one bit." says Robin.
"You serve the new king, then? This... Validar?" asks Chrom.
"I do." says Aversa proudly.
"They say he worships Grima..." says Frederick.
"Why yes, of course he is Grimleal. We are both believers." says Aversa again. "My liege often says it was his faith that got him through, after Gangrel's passing. It was a difficult time... But he kept order where there might have been chaos. We had meant to arrange an official visit to Ylisstol, but- Ah, here is my lord now."
Validar then approaches.
"An honor to finally meet you, sire. I am Validar, king regnant of Plegia." says Validar.
"The honor is mine, good king. ...Is it possible we've met before some..." says Chrom before the realization hits him harder than a boulder rolling down a mountain. "Gods! It can't be."
"Oh ho, I'm quite certain I would remember any encounter with Ylissean royalty." says Validar.
Chrom whispers to Robin, "(Psst! Robin!)"
"(I know! He looks just like the assassin that came after Emmeryn...)", Robin whispers back.
"And you must be Lady Robin." says Validar eyeing Robin with much interest.
"You know of me, sire?" asks Robin.
"The whole world knows of Ylisse's master tactician! And indeed, I see the sparkle of wisdom in your eyes." says Validar. "And I've heard of some new warriors that have come to this land. Corrin, Rex, Pyra, Mythra, Nia and Dromarch."
"You've heard of us?" asks Corrin. "How? We never introduced ourselves."
"I know all who steps foot into Plegia." says Validar.
"Sounds pretty suspicious, if you ask me." says Rex.
"I must agree with Rex." says Dromarch getting into a stance. "This sounds a little too convenient when we we're all rather new to this world."
"Call it what you will, the fact is that I know, and thus, we can skip the formalities." says Validar.
"...Let's get straight to business, then." Mythra says, seemingly uneasy although it doesn't seem to be because of Validar.
"(But we killed him, Robin!)" whispers Chrom. "(And how would he know of Corrin and the others?)"
"(I know but... The resemblance... it's uncanny...)" Robin whispers back. "(And I have no idea how he would have known that.)"
"(How could he possibly-)" Chrom whispers.
Validar clears his throat and says, "My, the negotiations haven't even begun and already so much whispering..."
"...My apologies, King Validar. We meant no disrespect." says Chrom.
"(Chrom? What should we do?)" whispers Robin.
"(Nothing for now. But stay close, and be ready for anything...)" Chrom whispers back.
"Then let us get to it." says Validar.
"Plegia can offer no soldiers, but will provide 800 warships and 200 transports." says Aversa. "In addition, we would be pleased to fully fund the campaign against Valm."
"That is... surprisingly generous of you, milord." says Frederick. "We could not ask for more, quite literally. You offer most all your assets..."
"I would give troops as well, but our army remains in shambles from the last war." says Validar. "I trust the gold and ships will suffice as a sign of our commitment to the cause?"
"Of course it will. Thank you, King Validar" says Chrom.
"The honor is ours, my prince." says Validar. "I look forward to building a strong bond between our two nations."
"As do I." says Chrom. "Then, if there's nothing else? My men and I must hurry back to Port Ferox."
"Oh, so soon? But I have one more introduction to make." says Aversa.
Chrom raises an eyebrow as he says, "...Yes? And who would that be?"
"A hierophant, the highest of her order in Plegia." says Validar.
Suddenly, a mysterious person walks in wearing similar garb to what Robin wore for her old tactician garb. None of Chrom's group notice at first, but this person has a wicked-looking sword on their back.
The person looks at the group though seems to be mostly focused on Robin.
"...So you lead the people in worship? We were just discussing religion earlier..." says Robin.
The person remains quiet.
"...I'm sorry, have I said something to offend you?" asks Robin.
"She certainly doesn't talk much." says Pyra.
"Uh, hello?" asks Corrin.
"...The heart still sleeps, but the blood flows through it. And the blood is strong..." says the person focused on Robin.
"...Huh? Beg pardon, were you talking to me?" asks Robin.
"Good hierophant, I would ask you to lower your cowl." says Frederick. "In Ylisse, it is a courtesy expected of one in the presence of royalty."
"... ...You are a long way from Ylisse, sir." says the hierophant. "...But very well..."
The person lowers their hood, shocking all of Chrom's group.
"Is that better?" asks the hierophant.
"What!?" asks Robin.
"By the gods!" says Chrom.
"What matter of sorcery-" says Frederick.
"She looks just like Robin!" says Corrin.
"Titan's foot!" says Rex.
"Uh... Robin, were you ever planning on telling us you had a twin?" Mythra says. "Like... You two look exactly the same!"
"My name is Robin." says the hierophant. "Oh, and that was YOUR name as well, wasn't it? What a strange coincidence..."
"Why that IS rather curious, now that you mention it... What are the odds?" asks Validar.
"I would say they are quite low." a voice says.
"That voice...!" Mythra says. "No... No no no, it can't be..."
Walking into view is a tall figure clad in black, cybernetic armor. On his knees, elbows, the backs of his shoulder blades, and just below his neck are green glowing crystals. From the back of his head comes a long chord with dull green sides, which seems to serve as his hair, and on the front of his helmet are 3 glowing green slits. The sight of him causes Mythra to step back, a look of horror on her face.
"I see you have not forgotten me, Mythra, even after 500 years." the figure says. "Ah, where are my... Manners? I am Muramasa."
The now named Blade comes to a stop next to the hierophant and gives a bow.
"Oh yes, I forgot to mention him. What an idiot I am." says Validar. "Completely slipped my mind."
"This is Muramasa, my Blade." says the hierophant. "He's been with me for a while, taking good care of things for us here in Plegia. Haven't you, Muramasa?"
"The hierophant has her own Blade?" asks Chrom.
Rex notices Mythra in shock, and asks, "Mythra, what's wrong? You know of him?"
"Aye, that I have." Muramasa says.
"Why are you here?" Mythra says. "HOW are you here, monster!?"
"The same way the other Core Crystals got here, my prison was brought as well." Muramasa says. "As for why... For the sake of my Driver. I am a changed man, gone are the days of ruthless slaughter!"
"You expect me to believe that?" Mythra says. "After what you did to Raijin, Fujin, and Suijin!?"
"Ah yes... Them." Muramasa says. "Tragic victims of my madness. I truly regret what I did to them, and while I know nothing can truly redeem me for it, I will still do my best to make up for the past. You may not believe me, but I speak true."
"I doubt that." Mythra says.
"Believe what you will." Muramasa says. "I live for my Driver now, and she and I have similar goals. I seek redemption, she seeks a future for Plegia. You can at least respect that, yes?"
Mythra says nothing, simply looking at Muramasa with a wary look, causing the other Blade to simply shrug.
"Seems this has been a day for a reunion, I see." says Validar. "In any case, I believe we are finished here. We will let you be on your w-"
"Hold just one moment!" says Chrom.
"Milord?" asks Aversa.
"What is the meaning of this?" asks Chrom. "Why do your hierophant and Robin-"
"I'm afraid we've no time for such trivial matters now, Your Highness." says Aversa. "We have aid preparations to attend to, and you have a long, hard journey ahead. Oh, and do be careful on your way back to Port Ferox. This time of year the highroads of Plegia can be quite treacherous..."
Later that day, Chrom's forces have set up camp on the high roads of Carrion Isle.
Meanwhile, Mythra looks at the fire that Pyra started, and Pyra sits next to her with a sorrowful look.
"Those memories returned, didn't they?" asks Pyra. "I know, because I felt them as well - you and I are still connected, after all."
"Yeah... Seeing him brought so many memories back." Mythra says. "...Both good and bad. I can't believe he's HERE..."
"I know." says Pyra. "And I'm just as worried."
Rex approaches with a worried expression.
"Pyra. Mythra. You two okay?" asks Rex.
"Hey, Rex." says Pyra. "We're fine, more or less."
"I thought you both could use some comfort." says Rex. "The sight of that Blade really spooked Mythra. If there's any way I can help, let me know."
"At the moment, only way you could help is to get rid of him." Mythra says. "...Which is FAR easier said than done. Me, Addam, Lora, Hugo, and the others couldn't even take him down back then... And then there's the many Drivers who sacrificed their lives to lure him into that trap... I guess I should tell you about him, huh?"
Rex sits next to Mythra and says, "It would give me a good idea of who or what I'm dealing with."
"As you heard, his name is Muramasa." Mythra says. "He's a special type of Blade like Malos and I, but his is known as a 'Saber'. Powerful, they don't need Drivers, and they draw power from their 'Knights', a type of Blade that comes in trios. I... Knew Muramasa's Knights well. Suijin, Fujin, and Raijin."
"So, what happened in the end with them?" asks Rex.
"...It was later into the Aegis War." Mythra says. "We had made camp when one of the Ardainian soldiers came running up to tell Hugo about a sighting of a Blade. Said those three had went to the Blade's location too the moment they heard. We went that way too, I was expecting to find them and their Saber and finally get to meet him, but... When we got there..."
Mythra closes her eyes, and tears can be seen dripping from them.
"...The brothers were gone." Mythra said. "Not even their Core Crystals remained... Save for one. One that I watched Muramasa EAT. That bastard... He killed them all and ate their Core Crystals! All because he wanted the power without the need for them! Some of my friends, just gone like that!"
"He ATE their Core Crystals!?" asks Rex. "Like Amalthus?"
"Pretty much." Mythra says. "They had similar goals too. Except Muramasa just wanted to slaughter everything for the hell of it. Maybe there was more to it, but I don't care. All I know is he killed my friends and then wanted to do the same to everyone else across Alrest. We attacked him, but... He was stronger than us. And he was even fast enough to keep up with Jin!"
"Titan's foot, this guy is sounding more and more like bad news from everything you're telling me." says Rex. "And if he's here in this world, then-"
"He may try to do what he wanted to do to Alrest to this world." says Pyra. "And to think, he decided to have a Driver. But why? What about that doppelganger of Robin would want him to make her his Driver when he never cared for such a thing in the past?"
"Whatever the reason, it can't be good." Mythra says. "That stuff about him regretting it and wanting redemption? All bullshit. That form you saw him in isn't his true one. Chances are he knew if he used his true form he wouldn't be able to fully back up his lie, but I could still tell. I know the vibe he gives off well enough, he was still radiating as much bloodlust as ever. You two probably couldn't tell, but I remember that feeling well."
"Don't worry, Mythra." says Rex. "I believe you. And whatever that blighter has planned, we'll stop it. Besides, he hasn't seen your and Pyra's true form, so that ought to help us surprise him in a way we catch him with his pants down."
"I can only hope it does catch him off guard enough." Mythra says. "Because this time, there's no imprisoning him. He won't fall into a trap again, we'll HAVE to kill him. And... I'm not even fully sure if we CAN..."
"Well, if he's in this world, he won't give us much choice." says Pyra. "And I can only hope by then, you and I, along with Nia and Dromarch, will be at full power. By that time, we'll need to do what we can to destroy him."
"Let's not give into despair." says Rex. "'The minute you let your fears conquer you is the minute you've already lost.' That's the 9th rule of the Salvagers' Code. We WILL defeat him, even if we need to risk our lives to do it. I know we can."
"...Well, you've never given me reason not to, so I'll have faith." Mythra says. "All I can say is we'd need to be ready for anything. For all the ass kickings he dealt out 500 years ago... I don't think he was going all out. Just a gut feeling I have."
"Then we'll just have to show him how powerful you've become ever since we defeated Malos, and saved Alrest!" says Rex. "And just sitting here worrying isn't going to kick that guy's arse any faster!"
"I couldn't agree more." says Chrom's voice.
All three see Chrom approaching.
"Sorry, I tend to have a bad habit of eavesdropping on certain individuals." says Chrom. "I wonder if it'll pass on to Lucina. I get the feeling it already has."
"So, you heard everything, Prince Chrom?" asks Pyra.
"I heard enough." says Chrom. "Especially of your history with him, Mythra. Rex is right, we can't let what could happen be the thing that defeats us, and fight our hardest. I know my abilities may not compare to you Blades, but I'll provide as much support as I can. Besides, the Shepherds have been up against impossible odds, but things tend to work out in the end - though I think that's mainly because of having Robin as our tactician. Either way, I refuse to sit on my laurels when such dangers are present, be this invasion from Valm or this Blade you have bad memories of."
"...You're right." Mythra says. "We'll fight against Valm and win, and when Muramasa reveals his hand, we'll fight HIM and win too! We HAVE to. For the good of everyone."
"Anyway, we can worry about that later." says Chrom. "Right now, since Rex talks about her cooking a lot, I was wondering if Pyra could lend her talents in the mess tent."
"Oh, I sure can." says Pyra. "Last thing you want is Mythra cooking."
Mythra just eyes Pyra with a smirk.
"Can't be any worse than Sully's cooking." says Chrom.
"Just how bad could that be?" asks Pyra.
"Let's just say the last time she fixed dinner, the whole company had diarrhea for three days straight." says Chrom.
"Oh dear." says Pyra.
"Anyway, while you're helping with dinner, I thought Rex and Mythra could spar with me." says Chrom.
"Sure thing!" says Rex.
"Oh, and do be careful." says Chrom.
"Why is that?" asks Rex.
"Well, when I practice... a good number of things tend to end up broken." says Chrom.
"Titan's foot." says Rex. "Well, we'll be happy to spar with you. Right, Mythra?"
"Uh, yeah." says Mythra. "Rex, you go on ahead with Chrom. I'll catch up."
"Something wrong?" asks Rex.
"No, nothing major." says Mythra. "I'll be there soon. I just want to talk to Pyra about something."
"Well, okay... don't be long." says Rex.
Rex and Chrom go off together.
Mythra stands up and Pyra says, "I know what you want to say."
"I know you do, Pyra, but... we have to tell Rex who he really is one day." says Mythra.
"I know, Mythra, but... I'd rather not burden him with that while he's still enjoying life." says Pyra. "He doesn't need that kind of responsibility."
"Like it really matters." says Mythra. "It's not like it'll ever return anyway."
"But still..." says Pyra.
"He deserves to know." Mythra says. "What comes after... We'll figure that out as we go."
Pyra sighs and says, "Alright. Anyway, you have a good spar. And try to go gentle on Chrom; he's not a Driver after all."
"I know." Mythra says. "I know how to hold back, don't worry."
Mythra heads off to join Rex and Chrom.
Later that night, Corrin is sitting by the fire, thinking to herself.
"Can't sleep?" asks Rex.
Corrin sees Rex, Pyra and Mythra appear from behind her.
"No, I can't." says Corrin. "Doesn't seem like you guys can, either."
"Would you like some company?" asks Pyra.
"I'd definitely appreciate it." says Corrin.
Afterwards, Rex, Pyra and Mythra are all sitting across from Corrin.
"What's on your mind, Corrin?" Mythra says. "You can talk to us about it."
"Just my siblings, again." says Corrin. "The fact I was supposed to be at a banquet that was partially held in honor for me, and forewent it trying to find Odin, Laslow and Selena. I have a feeling my siblings will understand, but I also know they'll worry. Ryoma, Takumi and Leo would have their best soldiers out on a hunt for me, Hinoka would search the whole continent from her pegasus, Camilla would be unable to sleep worrying about me, Sakura would worry herself into depression, Elise would cry her adorable little eyes out... and then... there's Xander. I'm so sorry to worry him like this. He must be miserable not being there for his 'little princess'."
"Is that what he calls you?" asks Rex.
"Mm-hmm." says Corrin with a nod. "He and I grew so close, and he regrets calling me a traitor that time I chose not to side with either Nohr or Hoshido when they were fighting each other. In fact, he said calling me that hurt him so much, especially when he came to learn I was really doing what I was doing for the right reason."
"Sometimes, taking the road less traveled is not without its bumps." says Pyra.
"You can say that again." says Corrin. "And even when both Nohr and Hoshido started working together, things still didn't get any easier. But... I don't regret any of it, and it all worked out for the better."
"And I'm sure this all will, too." says Rex. "Besides, you have to imagine this must be tough on Robin, her knowing some lookalike is acting as a religious leader and seems to say only cryptic things."
"Yeah, we saw Robin walk out of her tent a while ago." says Pyra. "I can only hope she's doing okay."
"Yeah, hopefully this isn't weighing too heavily on her." Mythra says. "...Think we should go check on her?"
"Nah, let's leave her be." says Rex. "I wouldn't know how to console her about something like that."
"Me neither." says Pyra.
Just then, Frederick runs to the group and says, "Everyone! Prepare for battle! We're under attack! It's the Risen!"
"You're kidding!" says Corrin. "But we all posted sentries!"
"I know, but these Risen are behaving differently from normal Risen; they made a stealthy approach!" says Frederick.
"But how!?" asks Pyra.
"It's gotta' be that Validar bastard!" says Rex. "I know it has to be!"
"Considering his parting words to us, this CAN'T be a coincidence!" Mythra says. "Damn him!"
"Let's get out there and help everyone!" says Corrin.
"Right!" says Rex.
As everyone is out and ready to fight, they all see they're surrounded.
"Oh no, they're everywhere!" says Corrin.
"Titan's foot, this place is crawling with these Architect-damned freaks!" says Rex.
"All right, everyone! Get ready too-" Chrom starts to say.
A storm of crows immediately appears.
"Wh-what's that? A storm of... crows?! Gods, it's upon us!" says Chrom.
"Damn it, why this all of a sudden!?" asks Rex.
"Shoo! Get out of here!" says Mythra.
"CAW! CAW! Are you folks lost? Or perhaps a lost CAWs? Heh ha!" says a voice coming from the crows.
"Who's there?! Show yourself!" says Chrom. "Gods' breath, I can't see anything through all these damned birds! Shoo! Scat! Away with you!"
The crows all disperse to reveal Henry standing there.
"Hi there! My name is Henry!" says Henry. "What's wrong? CAW-strophobic? Nya ha ha! Oh, I slay me!"
"What the bloody hell?" asks Rex.
"Not if these Risen do it first!" says Chrom. "This is no time for japes! Hide yourself, boy!"
"You know, I thought you were all right... Turns out you're all FRIGHT! Nya ha ha!" says Henry. "I'd wish you good luck killing these monsters, buuuuuut... They're ALREADY DEAD!"
"Thank you, Captain Obvious." says Nia.
"We are well aware!" says Chrom getting annoyed.
"The ravens wanted me to give you a message. "Caaw... C-caw-caw." Roughly translated, it means... Hmm, now what was the human word for that again? ...Traipse? ...Tripe? Oh, TRAPPED! Right! ...They say you're trapped." says Henry.
"Wait, you can actually speak bird?" asks Corrin.
"That's aptly put, my lady! Nya ha ha ha!" says Henry.
"We know, damn it!" says Chrom getting extremely irritated. "Gods... Where did they all come from?"
"Well, see, when a mommy zombie and a daddy zombie love each other very much... Nya ha ha!" says Henry feeling proud about his jokes.
"...I already don't like this guy." Mythra says. "You have terrible taste in jokes."
"Perhaps I should save the Risen the trouble and silence you myself." Chrom threatens Henry.
"Hey, wait! I want to join your CAWs- I mean, I can help you!" says Henry. "I know magic! What do you say... Birds of a feather and all that?"
"Those robes... A Plegian dark mage?" asks Chrom. "...Why would you help us?"
"Oh, don't let all the joking around fool ya-I've got kind of a thing for killing. Most funny people do, you know. The two things must be linked somehow." says Henry. "Ever talk to a jester when he's off duty? Those guys are some sick dastards! Oh! Those ravens also said to keep an eye on those fortresses. If you're nearby when more monsters emerge, it could CAWs quite a stir!"
"Shut up, already, ya' Ardun's arse!" says Nia.
"Yeah, if you want to help us then shut up and do some fighting!" Mythra says. "The sooner I get far away from him the better..."
"Alright, everyone, stay close together!" says Robin. "Once I find a good place to flank them, I'll let you all know!"
"I know, Robin." says Chrom. "Shepherds! Attack!"
Meanwhile, Zeke and Xander's groups continue to travel together, unbeknownst they're getting close to where Rex and the others are.
"I wonder if they all really went this way." says Morag.
"That's what the local village said." says Brighid. "Curious how they were eager for us to leave so soon, though, don't you think?"
"Quite so." says Morag.
"Still, we have no idea if they could be this way." says Hinoka.
"I choose to believe it." says Camilla. "I do so hope precious Corrin ended up with this Rex and his friends."
"Tora hope Rex-Rex and others okay." says Tora.
"I have faith in our friends!" Zeke says. "Rex and Nia are too strong to fall to any fiend, even with their Blades not at full power."
"While I have no such faith in your friends, I do in my lady." Jakob says. "As her retainer, I must always believe in her."
"Insulting our allies' friends, and kissing Sister's ass in the same sentence." Takumi says. "I'd expect no different from you."
"And what is THAT supposed to mean?" Jakob says.
"That you're an ass, but a loyal one." Takumi says.
"...I'll let that slide this time since you are dear to Lady Corrin." Jakob says.
"Poppi sense Blade signatures!" says Poppi.
"What!?" asks Morag.
"Blade signatures come from up ahead!" says Poppi pointing in the direction she's facing.
"Poppi can get Blade readings!" says Tora. "How many Blade signatures does Poppi sense?"
"About four of them." says Poppi. "Two of them being similar to one another."
"That must be Pyra and Mythra." says Morag. "Which means-"
"Rex is there!" Zeke says. "And if there are two others, they must be Dromarch and Nia. Hah, we've found them!"
"Hopefully Sister is with them then." Takumi says. "Otherwise we've no idea WHERE she could be."
"I will find my lady no matter how long the search takes." Jakob says. "As her butler and retainer, I MUST return to her side."
"Poppi sense other type of energy." says Poppi. "Similar to ether, but different at the same time. It feel like dark ether, but more vile."
"Then that can only mean they're in danger!" says Ryoma.
"I'm coming, Corrin!" says Xander as he charges off.
"Wait, brother!" says Leo.
"Don't worry, Corrin!" says Camilla as she flies off. "Camilla is on her way!"
"Ugh, I get the feeling things are getting bad out there." says Leo. "Oh well, nothing but to charge ahead!"
"Let's get out there, then!" says Hinoka.
"Right behind you!" says Morag. "Brighid!"
"Yes, Lady Morag!" says Brighid.
"Tora and Poppi hurry to Rex-Rex's side!" says Tora. "Poppi, get Poppibuster to charge in!"
"Roger, Masterpon!" says Poppi.
"C'mon Pandy, our friends need our help!" Zeke says.
"Hold on Lady Corrin, your retainer is on the way!" Jakob says.
"Whatever is attacking Sister is going to regret it!" Takumi says.
Meanwhile, Chrom's forces are in the thick of the fighting, battling for their lives.
"Damn these Risen to the hells! There's so many of them!" says Chrom cutting down some mercenary Risen.
"They're everywhere!" says Rex cutting down as many as he can with Mythra's Aegis Sword. "We'll be here all night doing this guff!"
"Hold fast, Rex!" shouts Gregor. "Gregor not be giving up so easy, so Gregor expect you to not give up so easy, as well!"
"I know that!" says Rex. "But they just keep crawling out of the woodwork like roaches! I don't know how long Pyra and Mythra can last before their energy runs out!"
"I don't think for long enough!" Mythra says. "If we were at full power we'd last a lot longer, but I'm not sure with us as we are!"
"These Risen are really straining us!" says Pyra.
"Arrgh, there's got to be a way to win this bloody fight!" says Rex.
Nia yells as she slashes down some fighter Risen while riding Dromarch.
"I'm not sure how long we can keep this up, my lady!" says Dromarch.
"I know, but I refuse to leave you, Dromarch!" says Nia. "We have to keep fighting!"
"I know, and fight we shall!" says Dromarch.
"Damned sacks of fertilizer!" shouts Sully as she impales a cavalier Risen.
"Even when we're against the wall, you're still as ferocious as ever, Sully!" says Stahl.
"Would you expect any less!?" asks Sully with a smirk.
Suddenly, a sniper Risen targets Stahl and Sully sees this as she jumps in front saying, "No, Stahl!"
The Risen fires the arrow, hitting Sully in her stomach, causing her to fall off her horse.
"Sully, no!" says Stahl.
"Don't... take that... tone with me." says Sully. "I'll keep fighting... even if I have to... impale their kneecaps... from here."
Robin sees the sniper Risen, and blasts him to death with Thoron.
"Stahl, get Sully to safety!" says Robin.
"On it!" says Stahl as he picks up Sully.
"Put me down, damn it! I can still fight!" says Sully.
Lon'qu and Maribelle and back to back.
"To think such lowly creatures would dare to pin us in a corner." says Maribelle. "How truly uncouth."
"I don't think they care about being uncouth." says Lon'qu. "They just want to kill us."
Corrin comes face to face with some myrmidon Risen, and one disarms Corrin of her Yato, sending it flying. Corrin then takes out her dragonstone and assumes dragon form, smacking the Risen with both claws, wings and water attacks. However, she's still taken damage.
"Corrin, are you okay?" asks Nowi.
"I'm fine." says Corrin in her dragon form. "Just took a little-"
"Bwaaargh!" goes a berserker Risen.
"Corrin, look out!" says Nowi.
However, as Corrin turns, then berserker Risen strikes her, making her scream in pain. As Corrin hits the ground, she reverts back to human form, and is severely weak.
"You big bully!" says Nowi as she uses her dragonstone to assume her own dragon form and blasts the Risen with fire.
"I... I have to... keep going." says Corrin as she struggles to get up, only to see some Risen slowly encroaching in on her.
"Corrin, no!" shouts Rex as he tries to rush to Corrin, only to be blocked by more Risen. "Get out of my way!"
"Crap, there's no way we'll make it to her in time!" Mythra says.
"My lady!" a voice shouts out right as one of the Risen around Corrin finds a dagger suddenly lodged firmly in its head.
"That dagger... that's-" says Corrin.
"Haaaaa!" shouts Xander as he charges in, slashing down the Risen with Siegfied, the others of Corrin's siblings and Jakob coming up from behind.
"You... you all... came..." says Corrin.
Xander gets off his horse and says as he lifts Corrin up, "Corrin, thank the First Dragons I found you."
"I'm so... so glad." says Corrin.
"Take it easy, Corrin." says Xander. "You're hurt pretty bad."
"Oh dear gods! Who did this to you, Corrin!?" asks Xander. "I'll have their heads on a spit!"
"A friend of mine... kind of beat you to that." says Corrin with a painful giggle.
More Risen charge at the newcomers until a voice stops them, shouting, "ULTIMATE LIGHTNING FURY SLASH MAX!"
The Risen are blown away by Zeke as he slams his sword, creating an explosion of electricity from a symbol on the ground.
"Zeke!" shouts Rex.
"That's our Shellhead for you." says Nia. "Always got to make a dramatic appearance."
"Yeah, that's just what Zeke does." Mythra says.
"Don't worry chums, the cavalry is here!" Zeke says. "Zeke von Genbu, Bringer of Chaos, has arrived to smite the unjust!"
"Along with that." Mythra says shaking her head.
The Risen get back up to try and attack Zeke, but a trail of blue fire quickly comes and burns them.
"You're just reckless as Rex, Zeke." says Morag as her and Brighid approach.
"Morag! Brighid!" says Rex.
"Looks like we arrived just in time." says Brighid.
Poppi flies in while carrying Tora, and Poppibuster comes in from behind.
Poppi then sets Tora down before landing, and the Nopon inventor rushes up to Rex saying, "Rex-Rex!"
"Good to see you guys all came here!" says Rex.
"Yeah, and we made some new friends." says Pandoria. "We'll introduce you all later."
"Same on our end." Mythra says. "We've got a LOT of people to introduce you to after this!"
"First, let's get rid of these... things!" says Morag.
"Right!" says Ryoma unsheathing Raijinto. "You're all going to pay for hurting my sister!"
"No one hurts my dear Corrin and gets away with it!" says Camilla arming her axe. "I'll have all your heads!"
"You tell 'em, Camilla!" says Hinoka.
"Seems these monsters pine for oblivion." says Leo getting Brynhildr ready. "Let's give them the pleasure of helping them on their way."
"I could use a little target practice." Takumi says. "And those who'd attack my family must be punished - With an arrow from my Fujin Yumi to their hearts! ...Or perhaps skulls in this case. These things don't look very alive."
"Wonder about that later, right now these miscreants must ALL die for harming Lady Corrin." Jakob says. "I do not care if they are alive or undead, I will simply kill them AGAIN."
"Sakura, Elise, stay here and heal Corrin." says Xander.
"Right." says Sakura. "Hang on, big sister."
"Let me help you, both!" says Lissa.
"Poppi! Ready full combat prowess! Destroy mean monsters!" says Tora.
"Roger, Masterpon!" says Poppi as she assumes QT mode.
"Attack!" shouts Xander as he readies Siegfried.
The newcomers all charge in, taking the fight to the Risen, Camilla and Hinoka using their expert flying skills to destroy the more airborne ones, Xander and Ryoma brandishing their blades, Jakob using his expert dagger skills, Leo using his magic, and Takumi using his archery skills.
Morag uses Brighid's Whipswords to burn several Risen while Zeke unleashes the power of Pandoria's Big Bang Edge. Poppi QT uses her Mech Arms to fire missiles at oncoming Risen. And Poppibuster uses both its Shield Hammer and light attacks to destroy more Risen.
"Alright, time to counterattack!" says Rex.
"Yeah, let's do it!" says Nia.
Rex and Nia charge back in.
As Poppi switches to QT Pi mode to slash down some monsters, she scans the area to find a way to end the fighting and says, "Masterpon! Poppi find source to stop oncoming monsters! Monster on top of dam! If Poppi and friends destroy him, all monsters will cease!"
"Rex-Rex!" says Tora.
"Heard her loud and clear!" says Rex. "Pyra, your sword!"
"On it!" says Pyra as she changes her sword.
"Robin, I think I have a strategy." says Rex.
"And I think I know what it is." says Robin.
"Nia! With Pyra and me!" says Rex.
"On it!" says Nia as she hops off Dromarch and assumes Blade form and producing her Catalyst Scimitar.
"Xander, let's cut a path through these creatures for them!" says Ryoma.
"Right!" says Xander.
Ryoma and Xander charge ahead to slaughter the Risen in their path. Rex, Pyra, Nia and Robin follow after.
"Grrr...kill...prince... Bwaaarg!" says the warrior Risen, readying his bow.
As the Risen fires an arrow, Poppi shoots it out of the air with her Variable Saber.
As Ryoma and him kill enough Risen in the way, Xander says, "Whatever you all are planning, do it now!"
"Here we go!" shouts Rex as he, Pyra and Nia zoom past the two kings.
Rex stops with Pyra being on his right side and Nia being on his left, the two holding their respective swords along with Rex as he crosses them in front of him.
"UNION SWORD!" shout Rex and the two Blades as they launch an X-shaped attack of both fire and water ether at the Risen, damaging and stunning him.
"Now, Robin!" shouts Rex.
"Checkmate!" says Robin as she fires a blast of Thoron magic at the Risen, destroying him completely.
"Kill...priiii...agh..." says the Risen as he dies.
Like a domino effect, the other Risen start to fade away into purple dust.
Seeing this, Chrom wipes his brow and says, "It's finally over."
"Not a moment too soon." says Rex.
"Yeah... Sheesh, that was WAY too close." Mythra says. "We're lucky Zeke and the others got here when they did."
"Thank goodness for that." says Pyra.
"Milord." says Frederick as he approaches Chrom. "You rest right now. I'll get to assessing the injured, and seeing who needs healing."
"You do that, Frederick." says Chrom.
A little while later, Chrom, Robin, Rex, Pyra, Mythra, Nia, Dromarch and the newcomers are on the dam.
"I want to thank you all for coming to our aid." says Chrom. "Any later, and we-"
"Think nothing of it." says Ryoma. "You looked after our sister, so that's thanks enough."
"Yes, we're all indebted to you." says Xander.
"Guys! You all did it!" says Corrin as her, Lissa, Elise and Sakura approach.
"Corrin! You okay!?" asks Rex.
"Yeah, thanks to these three." says Corrin.
"Too bad MY healing was nerfed." says Nia. "You would have been right as rain after I fixed you up."
"I don't doubt it." says Corrin. "In any case, it's all over."
"Gods, I thought it might nev-"
"Chrom, look out!" Robin interrupts him as she sees an assassin Risen teleport in.
"Huh?! Ah!" panics Chrom.
"Father, no!" shouts Lucina's voice.
As the Risen tries to do Chrom in, Lucina rushes in and blocks the Risen's attack with her Falchion.
The Risen escapes before anyone can kill him.
"Thank the gods you're safe!" says Lucina as she looks at Chrom with a smile.
"...You called me 'Father'." says Chrom looking weirded out.
"Did I? I... ...Perhaps we might speak privately?" asks Lucina.
"Perhaps we should, yes." says Chrom as he and Lucina walk off.
"What on Alrest was that all about?" asks Rex.
"I really don't know." says Pyra.
"Me neither." Mythra says. "All I know is it sounded weird."
"Just as weird as that woman." says Lissa. "So, Corrin, I take it these eight here are your siblings."
"Yes, and my butler, Jakob." says Corrin.
"A pleasure to meet you all." says Xander.
"And Rex, I take it these ones over here are your friends." says Robin.
"Yeah, that's Morag and her blade, Brighid, Zeke and his Blade, Pandoria, Tora and his Blade, Poppi, and the big silver guy is the Poppibuster." says Rex.
"It is an honor to meet you all." says Morag.
"So, how did you all meet each other?" asks Pyra.
"Eh, Tora and friends rather not say." says Tora.
"...You figured each other to be enemies, didn't you?" asks Nia.
"Ah, Titan's foot! You got to be kidding me!" says Rex.
"And after it all, I wish I could take it all back." says Brighid.
"Xander, Ryoma, all of you." says Corrin looking disappointed. "I figured you'd all be over doing hasty accusations."
"We're so sorry, little princess." says Xander.
"Well to be fair, it was technically Zeke's fault." says Takumi.
"Yes, I take all the blame for this one." says Zeke. "I saw Takumi touch a Core Crystal, and assumed he had bad intentions with it."
"There you go thinking with your muscles again, Shellhead." says Nia.
"So, you all found a Core Crystal!" says Pyra.
"That we did." says Morag. "And if there are more, then I say we should all join forces to find the others."
"But still, we have no idea where to start looking." says Dromarch.
"Meh meh, Tora just have brilliant idea!" says Tora. "If Tora find good components, Tora could install Poppi with new system to find Core Crystals around this world!"
"Poppi have to admit it, Masterpon DO have brilliant idea." says Poppi.
"But could such a thing be done?" asks Leo.
"Oh yes, no problem for Tora." says Tora. "Tora install Poppi with new program, and use that to scan energy signature of Core Crystal. Then Poppi use that signature to find other Core Crystals."
"When you think about it, it's not a bad plan." says Zeke. "And Tora is an amazing inventor when it comes to Poppi."
"And perhaps, we could use that to find the other Blades that were brought here." says Morag.
Just then, everyone hears Lucina cry.
"Is a girl crying?" asks Rex.
"Sounds like Marth." says Robin. "Let's go check it out."
Eventually, Robin and the others see Chrom holding Lucina as she cries.
"What the-" says Rex.
Robin just glares.
As Chrom and Lucina let go of each other, Robin clears her throat.
"I'm sorry—Chrom?" asks Robin.
"Hrmm." says Chrom as he notices Robin and the others. "Oh, Robin, everyone. What is it?"
"Well, Chrom you two are out here alone, and that girl is crying." says Corrin. "This is how ill rumors are born."
Robin sighs and says, "I trust you, Chrom, but is there a reason you and Marth need to be alone?"
"Can we tell her, Lucina?" asks Chrom.
"Of course." says Lucina.
"Lucina!?" asks Robin.
"Robin, this is going to come as a shock, but... I'll just say it: This is our daughter." says Chrom.
Everyone goes wide-eyed.
"...What?! Have you gone mad?!" asks Robin out of disbelief.
"It's true, Robin." says Lucina. "Please, look closely. Prove it with your own eyes by looking into mine."
Lucina approaches the group and stands still so they can look at her eyes. Just then, they notice the brand on Lucina's left eye.
"Ah! You have the Brand!" says Robin out of shock.
"Just like that baby!" says Rex.
"O-Oh wow, she does!" Mythra says. "Same exact place too!"
"The same Brand carried by all House Ylisse's bloodline." says Chrom.
"I'm sorry, but what is this about a baby and a brand?" asks Brighid.
"Sorry, but we'll tell you all some other time." says Pyra.
"Do you all see now?" asks Chrom.
"...No, no I can't say that I do. If this is Lucina, what has befallen our baby back at the palace?" ask Robin.
"Your baby is right where you left her, and perfectly safe." says Lucina. "I am her from another time. A time that has yet to be."
"You mean... the future?" asks Robin out of shock.
"Yes, more than 10 years hence. After history takes a dark and most destructive turn..." says Lucina.
Lucina thinks back to her time when the Risen are ravaging and destroying all of Ylisse, killing soldiers left and right.
One Risen pins a female soldier against the wall, threatening to kill her until it feels a something sharp stab it, looking down to see it's the point of a sword.
"I believe the woman you want... is ME!" says Lucina as she kills the Risen. She then says to the female soldier, "We can't these things win. Now grab a sword... and FIGHT!"
Back to the present time, Robin asks, "But why? What happens in the future?!"
"The fell dragon, Grima, is resurrected. His roar is a death knell for man, a scream that silences all hope... Death everywhere..." says Lucina grimly.
"Chrom? ...Our whole company? All of us? Dead?!" asks Robin looking shocked again.
"...Yes." says Lucina solemnly.
"That's horrible!" says Corrin.
"Wow, and I thought the whole thing with Malos was bad." says Rex.
"This all sounds like a true nightmare." says Pyra.
"Maybe even more of a nightmare than Muramasa." Mythra says. "Jeez... You experienced hell."
"...I...I don't know what to say." stammers Robin.
"A tale that beggars belief, and yet the truth of it stands before us." says Chrom. "She carries Falchion, my same sword. And the same sword the first exalt used to defeat Grima long ago."
"Your blade and mine are one, Father." says Lucina. "It was... It was all I had left of you."
"There is only one Falchion, Robin. I believe her." says Chrom.
"Yeah, and so do I!" says Lissa. "Heck, I saw her COME from the future! She fell right out of the sky! I've never seen anything like it..."
"Thank you, Aunt Lissa." says Lucina. "Naga, the divine dragon, feared mankind would face Grima again. In preparation for that day, she devised a ritual. It allows one to return to the past and alter events already written. I made the journey with others, but... we became separated."
"Don't worry, Lucina. If they're out there, we'll find 'em!" says Lissa.
"Xander... everyone... I know this might sound sudden, but-" Corrin starts to say.
"Say no more, Corrin." says Ryoma. "We'll help you."
"Really!?" asks Corrin.
"Yes, you've always followed your heart, and we have no reason to turn that down." says Xander. "We can have our banquet again another day; this is more important."
"I will follow you to the ends of our world, this one or any other, my lady." says Jakob.
"If my cute little Corrin wants to help her new friends, why should I refuse?" asks Camilla.
"Thank you, all of you." says Corrin.
"Zeke, guys, what do you all think?" asks Rex.
"Can't just turn our backs on them, now can we?" Zeke says. "That wouldn't be very heroic, now would it?"
"Yeah, I'm not just gonna turn away now either." Mythra says. "If this world's at risk, I'll do my best to help too."
"Same here." says Pyra. "Our world was on the verge of destruction, and if we can save that one, then we can save this one, too."
"I suppose I could chalk this up as another of my duties as Special Inquisitor." says Morag.
"I think it might be for more than that, Lady Morag." says Brighid.
"Hrmph, am I that predictable?" asks Morag.
"Tora feel up and ready for new adventure with friends!" says Tora.
"Poppi feel same way in circuits." says Poppi.
Robin approaches Lucina and says, "... My daughter..."
"Yes Robin. Your daughter." says Lucina.
"You have grown into such a strong and beautiful woman..." says Robin with a warm smile. "Chrom and I are truly blessed."
"Thank you... milady." says Lucina.
"Will you not call me Mother?" asks Robin.
"I... thought you might mind." says Lucina.
"Of course not! I love you with all my heart!" says Robin.
"Oh, Mother..." says Lucina on the verge of crying.
Robin and Lucina approach and embrace one another as mother and daughter.
"You are the finest daughter a woman could hope for, Lucina." says Robin.
"Mother... Oh, I've missed you more than you'll ever know..." says Lucina with tears in her eyes.
Mythra starts to cry herself and Rex hands her a handkerchief.
"Thank you, Rex." says Mythra as she wipes her eyes.
"Anytime." says Rex.
"Ugh, what's with this mushy shit?" a voice says.
Atop a distant cliff are three figures mostly shrouded by the night, though one has sparking coil-like parts on his legs and arms, which crackle with electricity, another is large and imposing, and the third's armor glints even in the darkness. They each hold a large Ether Cannon, Shield Hammer, and Megalance-type weapons respectively. The first of them is eyeing the heroes through a scope over his eye, which soon folded back into the side of his helmet.
"Gross. I don't get why people do that." the first says. "Heh... But they HAVE made themselves sitting ducks. Let's take care of these rodents right here and now."
As the first Blade begins to charge energy into his Ether Cannon, he's suddenly thrown against a nearby rock, and then rammed before finding the Megalance Blade's lance pressed against his neck, the telltale whirring sound and growing heat under telling him what his cohort intends to do.
"You will... Stop NOW." the third says, as if struggling.
"Alright, alright already!" the first says. "Jeez, you can get off me now! I'm amazed you've still got enough strength in ya to keep this struggle up..."
As the two Blades break apart and the Ether Cannon Blade stands up, he then looks around.
"...Where's the boss?" the first says. "He was here a minute ago."
"There." the second says in a deep, baritone voice as he points a large finger out into the distance.
"...Going to meet them halfway on their journey, eh?" the first says. "I wonder what for... Eh, I'll tell Muramasa anyways - And before you think about blasting my head off, Argent, he'd find out anyways! So put that damn gunlance of yours AWAY from my head."
"Watch... Yourself." Argent says. "Our loyalty... Is to him."
"Feh, who needs loyalty?" the first says. "You know the plan, right?"
"I got it." the second says. "I'll catch a boat to Valm come morning, and follow them."
"Great." the first says. "C'mon Argent, back to the castle for us. Oh! And if you see him with that ragtag bunch of 'heroes'... You know what to do."
As the first Blade and Argent begin to make their way down the cliff, the second looks out at the horizon.
"...That I do." he says. "If he shows weakness, he will be purged - Leader or not."
To Be Continued in Chapter 7.
