Chapter 9: What is this?

"I see it has come to this once more. The war that started all those years ago, continues to haunt us," Mustafa mutters as his wife hands him a plate a food.

"How have the troops taken the news, General," Validar inquires.

"Aye, there's a fire been lit in those lads," Mustafa answers, "Though they were children, they've not forgotten what the Ylissean army did to their families and villages. They are eager for the chance to put Crusas in the grave for all he's done."

Validar sighs, "Temper their bloodlust. We must be better than him if we want the upper hand. We need more time to consolidate our forces with the troops we will be receiving from Khan Basilio."

"About that, Your Majesty," Mustafa interrupts, "Last I saw at the castle, droves of men and women lined up for enlistment against Crusas. Soon as word got out of a war with Ylisse, most folk didn't sit well with the idea of wait'n for Naga's Butcher to march on their homes again."

"That's a relief," Robin adds, "We have the support of our people with us. That puts us at an advantage over Crusas."

"Why's that, lad?" Mustafa asks.

"I have it on good grounds that Ylisse is having a problem with their common class rising up in rebellion," Robin says, "Though our army may be smaller, we are united in our hearts. That is something that cannot be overstated in a war like this. Most importantly, I feel Crusas knows how united we since the civil war. That's why he is dealing with his own problems first before coming to face us. Once his people are relatively unified, or at least not actively rising against him, he'll begin this war in earnest. Fortunately, we will be better prepared to face him by that time."

"And better armed, Prince Robin," Lenina says, "A good sword can make all the difference. Thousands of the finest ever forged in the hands of the best soldiers these deserts have ever produced can win this war. The craftsmen and women for the country will certainly make sure the army will have all the metal it could ever need."

"Aye, and with the Feroxi supporting us with both food and men, our odds look much better than they did years ago," Mustafa adds, "We're armed, prepared, and organized; Cursas'll be in for a surprise when we toss'em across the border and march on his land this time around."

"Yes…" Validar says as his eyes wander off.

"Father?" Robin turns to Validar.

The King shakes his head, "It's nothing, just… pondering our options. Since we have discovered that Crusas' hands are tied up with rebels, it would seem we have some time before he can launch any sort of invasion into Plegia. Though I fear he will not charge into the desert as haphazardly as he did before."

"I have some drafts back in the castle for how we might organize the ranks across the border as well as some possible invasion strategies," Robin says.

Mustafa nods, "I'll give'em a look through back at the castle. Knowing you, lad, they'll be the best I could ask for."

"Naturally," Robin gloats.

A grin cracks onto Validar's face, "Robin, Lenina… could we have some time alone. I need to discuss some confidential matters with General Mustafa."

"Of course, Your Majesty," Lenina bows, "Let me lock the place up tight for you two. Since you're planning on leaving soon, do you need a lunch for the road? I would feel terrible if you had to march on an empty stomach. Some sweets perhaps?"

"Thank you, that would be splendid," Validar compliments.

Robin rises from his seat and nods, "I shall take my leave then, father."

Robin departs the house as Lenina latches up the windows. Both Validar and Mustafa look toward the door as they are left alone, "Your Majesty, I've heard tale from the Head Sorcerers that you've sent Ardri for Abbados. Do you actually intend to put the lad on the lines of battle?"

"Whether I will it or not, destiny seems to point me to the conclusion that he may have to meet our enemy face to face. I will make certain that even without my guidance, he will be protected…"

Robin walks towards the Ranger's supply wagon. Sumia sits next to the open back, her nose in a novel. Gaius stands guard on the cart, though at the moment he's running a needle and thread through a piece of his spare clothes with a lollipop sticking out of his mouth. As Robin's footsteps grow louder Sumia pulls her eyes away from the pages and towards the prince, "Robin, you're back!"

Gaius jumps at the sudden cheer, "Hey, bubbles. How'd the meeting go?"

"Standard stuff, my father dismissed Lenina and myself early. I think she was about to start cooking something to send us off, said something about making sweets…" Robin says through a devilish grin.

Gaius chuckles, "Nice try, Bubbles, but I'm not falling for that one this time around."

"Have I ever told you that she's the one who always makes my birthday cakes?" Robin teases.

"Where is she?!" Gaius hops up.

"I think she was headed for the market. If you hurry and help her, she may give you a reward. Since you're so generously helping her out, I'd be happy to watch Sumia for you," Robin continues in a half sarcastic tone.

"Thanks Bubbles, you're the greatest," Gaius nods before taking off.

As the dust settles Robin turns back to Sumia, "Is there some kind of a story behind this cake you mentioned?"

"It's a long story that will do nothing but confuse you. I still don't quite understand it myself," Robin answers.

Sumia giggles, "So there is something in this world that stumps the great tactician prince of Plegia."

"My, my, aren't we getting awfully familiar for you to be addressing royalty like that," Robin jests.

"I'm sorry! I just thought you'd like a joke! Gaius says that you enjoy pulling pranks sometimes, so I thought…" she panics.

Robin laughs, "I'm sorry, I couldn't resist."

Sumia's face turns red as it sinks behind her book, "You don't have to laugh so hard at me. Why are you so mean?"

"If you really want an answer to that, I typically chalk it up to my Grimleal pedigree," Robin laughs it out for a few more seconds, "By the way, were you and Gaius talking about me?"

Sumia keeps remains hidden behind the book, "I just wanted to know what he thought of you and your sense of humor just kind of came up."

Robin looks at her arms, the chafed skin noticeable but the discoloration seems to have faded, "Are your arms feeling better?"

"Yeah," she squeaks, "That ointment you gave me really helped."

"I know, one time I burned myself helping Aunt Lenina at her forge. She poured that over it and I was as good as new the next day," Robin explains, "Are you enjoying the book?"

"Oh, Yes!" Sumia bounces back, "The heroine of the story is so fearsome and strong. She kind of reminds me of Captain Phila. I kind of wish I was more like her sometimes."

"The blood thirsty falcon knight from the book or your captain?" Robin asks.

"Both," she answers, "They so brave and strong, while I'm just… me."

Robin watches her expression gloom, "Being strong is a bit over rated if you ask me."

Sumia raises an eyebrow, "Really, how?"

Robin shrugs, "I'm the second strongest magic user I know, somewhere in the top 5 swordsmen I know, and easily the smartest person in the country. Not to mention that I have great wealth, reputation, and social standing as the Plegian Crown Prince."

"I'm not seeing what you mean, your life sounds much better than mine," Sumia says.

"Yet," Robin interjects, "Despite all of that, I still have the same problems as everyone else. I hate getting up in the morning, work never seems to end, and I always feel like there's not enough time in the day. Plegia is ripe with tales of men who have destroyed themselves for power. I figured out that the trick to being satisfied with your life is learning to enjoy who you are."

"Yeah, but you don't mess up all the time," Sumia says, "I'm clumsy and all I end up doing is embarrassing myself."

Robin shakes his head, "That can't be…"

"I got captured because I tripped and knocked myself out on my own lance," Sumia interrupts, "It can't possibly get more embarrassing than that."

"You're a part of The Ylissean Pegasus Knights, feared across the entire continent," Robin says, "You were a part of Exalt Crusas' vanguard and nearly took off my father's head in battle. Considering that your enemies were me and my team, who have never lost a battle, you should be proud of yourself."

Sumia smiles a bit, "Thank you… You sound just like my best friend trying to cheer me up."

"There are a number of things I still don't like about myself," Robin admits, "I can get quite obsessive and depressed over things that are not going well. However, Grima's Truth says that, 'One's strength should never be discounted, for that is the source of one's greatness.'"

Sumia shakes her head, "The Grimleal are a very strange group."

Robin laughs at her comment, "Anyway, I dismissed Gaius because I thought you might want to get out of the cart for a while and walk around the village before we leave. You'll be more restricted at the castle, so this will probably be the last chance for fresh air you'll get for a while."

"Alright," Sumia sighs, "Thanks for doing what you can."

From a distance away however, two sets of eyes look on in a mixture of confusion and concern. Bernard and Aversa do their best to stay hidden as they listen.

"I feel that I should put a stop to this. Robin's tendency to befriend strangers may finally come back to bite him with this one," Bernard comments.

"I don't think you need to worry about her too much," Aversa calms him, "She doesn't seem smart or brave enough to try something against him, and Robin knows that. Let's just make sure she doesn't try anything while he's not looking."

"She's already tried something…" a seething Tharja says.

"Ah!" both Aversa and Bernard shout.

"Shhh! They'll hear us…" Tharja whispers.

"How long have you been standing here?" Bernard asks.

"I haven't left Robin's general vicinity since he rescued me. Yet he spends so much time with the Ylissean wench then he does with his true love," she rants.

Aversa and Bernard slowly back away and leave her to her rage as Robin leads Sumia into the town.

The Rangers pack up the wagon as a few more stand ready to follow to the capital. The wagons full of men, weapons, and armor ready for war. Lenina, Gaius, and Bernard load the packed food last into the wagon. Gaius stands watch over Sumia and the tasty treats in the back of the wagon, and Bernard steps closer to his mother.

He hands her a few slips of paper from his satchel, "Here's a list of all the proper measurements, mother, along with everyone's preferred weapon and style."

Lenina looks over the paper and nods, "Such a good boy, Bernard. You do your mother proud, but don't get yourself hurt out there. Nearly gave me a heart attack when I heard you stabbed in Regna Ferox."

Bernard gives a sheepish grin, "Sorry, I was doing my best mom. I'll be more careful from now on okay."

Lanina throws her muscular arms over her son and kisses him on the cheek, "I just don't want to lose my handsome little guy. You better come right back here the minute you need me to fix your armor, I don't trust anyone else to protect my son."

Everyone around them chuckles as Bernard rolls his eyes and smiles, "Thank you mother, I will. I have to go now, I have a job to protect Robin and Aversa."

Lenina pulls away, her eyes misty, "I know, son. Those two need all the help they can get, especially that clever little Prince," she lets Bernard go, "Good bye, Grima watch over you."

"You don't have to worry about that, mother. I'll see you soon," Bernard says as he turns back, a genuine smile on his face.

Aversa passes him as he walks towards the front of the group, "Good bye Aunty. I'm sorry we could spend more time together."

"It's fine, you don't need to be spending so much time with your hardy old aunt. I'm more worried that you haven't found a boyfriend yet," Lenina says, "I would have thought you'd be married by now, maybe a grandnephew on the way."

"I-I'll manage," Aversia losing her composure of a moment, "There will be plenty of time for that once the fighting stops."

"Speaking of," Lenina pulls Aversa closer, "Keep an eye on Bernard for me. I don't want any girls chasing after him. I want you to do what you have to until he's old enough for that nonsense. Got it?"

"Y-yes, of course," Aversa answers.

"Such a good girl, thank you Aversa," Lenina squeezes her tight.

Aversa struggles to break free of her aunt's strong grasp, "Aunty, you're crushing me."

Lenina releases her, "You and your brother, the both of you have gone so soft in that lofty castle of yours. Next thing you know Bernard will be wanting a smaller axe to fight with."

They both laugh as Lenina sends her off and she rejoins Bernard, Robin and Chrom at the head of the wagon. Passing the still snickering Vaike and Henry, she finds Chrom chuckling as well.

"You know Bernard, as funny as it is to see your mom talking to you like you're a little kid, I respect you for taking it with dignity as the oldest one of the group," Chrom says.

Robin begins chuckling, "Actually, Aversa's the oldest one in the Rangers."

"Oh!" Chrom says as he turns to her, "I'm so sorry Aversa, I shouldn't have assumed, I definitely thought Bernard was older than twenty-six. I guess that makes him the second oldest then?"

"I fear not," Aversa, answers, "That's Gaius, he's twenty-four."

"Wait," Chrom's brow furrows and his expression curls, "Bernard… How old are you?"

Bernard stands still as a statue, takes a deep breath, and mutters, "…inet…n"

"What?" Chrom probes.

Another deep breath from Bernard, "I'm… nineteen years old… I'm the youngest Ranger on the team…"

Chrom's eyes widen as his jaw hangs open, "But… you're… Look at you! You're huge!"

"You've met my mom and my dad," Bernard counters, "I'm not exactly from flimsy stock. The men in my father's family begin shaving at the age of 10. I trained hard under my father and mother to become a strong warrior since I could remember. As for my personality, I hung around Sir Robin and Lady Aversa for so much of my adolescence, one of the three of us had to become the grown up out of necessity."

"But… you're really only nineteen?" Chrom reiterates.

Validar steps into their circle, "I can attest to it, Sir Chrom, Barnard is indeed the youngest of the Rangers.

"Why do you think he hates his nickname, Sir Bernard The Optimist?" Robin says.

Bernard groans at the comments, "Please stop it, being called, Sir, makes me feel old, Prince Robin."

The group laughs, "Alright, I'll stop," Robin says before turning to Chrom, "Hey Chrom, could you guard Sumia until we eat, I'm afraid Gaius might take all our cakes if I let him stay back there much longer. Tell him to drive the wagon."

"Okay," Chrom nods as he turns back.

Chrom walks to the back of the wagon and hops into the back. As he does, Gaius shuffles some of the boxes into place, "Hey, Blue, what's up?"

"Robin says I'm on guard duty and you need to drive the wagon," Chrom answers.

"What? I always drive, can't I catch a break this time around? Get Lon'qu or Cherche to do it, I never see those two since they started trying to break his fear of women," Gaius replies.

"I'm not the prince, take it up with Robin, he's the one in charge," Chrom counters.

Gaius moans as his head droops down, "Fine… Later Stumbles, have fun with Blue."

Sumia turns away as the former thief hopes through the canvas flaps, "I really wish he'd stop calling me, Stumbles."

"Robin says it's pointless," Chrom comments, "I was pegged with, Blue, he moment I met him."

"At least yours isn't so embarrassing," Sumia counters.

"You got me there…" Chrom sits down as Sumia stares off, "Hey, Sumia, you're a part of the Ylissean Pegasus Knights, right?"

She turns back to him, "Hm? Yes, I was Knighted just before I was sent off with His Grace. Why?"

Chrom's eyes shift around the wagon, "Do you know a woman named, Cordelia?"

Sumia lights up, "Cordelia! We've been best friends since forever. She's the greatest Pegasus Knight in the realm. Wait, how do you know her?"

"Chrom rubs the back of his neck, "I ran into her in Regna Ferox. She seemed like a nice girl… Never mind I was just curious."

The wagon starts moving and the two sit in silence through the trip. Lunch comes and goes and as the day fades, the find themselves in the shadow of Grima's bones. The city itself is bustling with activity the likes of which the Rangers have never seen. Every craftsman was working late, sharpening and tempering blades and armor. The Grimleal zealots have taken to the streets preaching to the crowds while worship houses and shrines are packed with people.

Arriving at the castle, legions of men in black armor await their King's arrival. They salute and cheer him as he rides through the gates and into the courtyard, "I never hoped to see our army building back up again, but it does warm my old heart a bit to see this many willing to fight for our home," Validar muses.

"It certainly helps with strategies when we have enough men for battle," Robin comments.

The servants relieve them of their horses and disassemble the wagon, one of them approaches Validar and bows, "Your Majesty, the interrogation hex has been prepared in the dungeon, for the prisoner Princess Aversa said was arriving with you."

"Thank you, that will be all," the servant rushes off as Validaer turns to Robin, "Take the prisoner to the interrogation chamber, we need to test the hex to see if we need something stronger him her."

Robin nods, "Yes, father."

Robin finds Sumia and leads her across the courtyard and around to the far side of the castle. They enter through a mighty metal door and weak through the dark, stone corridors ad up a few levels. They reach a room with a large wooden door and enter to find a table with cuffs bolted into it and a chair on each side on one end of the room. On the other end is another table with one bowl of gray dust and one with water and a cloth soaking in it.

"Apologies but I'm going to have to lock you into those," Robin says as he pulls the key out from the cuffs.

"I thought you said it would be impossible for me to get away in the desert?" Sumia counters.

"We'll when we're dealing with hexes and magic like this, the rules have to change," Robin answers, "I promise it's not going to hurt you, it's just a weaker version of the hex Tharja wanted to use in the wagon. Now please get in."

Sumia pouts but does as she's told. Robin locks her into place and then fetches the dust bowl, "So what kind of hex is this?"
"Say, aww," Robin answers.

Sumia grows confused, "What?"

Robin throws a handful of dust into her face. Sumia hands keep her from wiping her face as she gags and groans, "Just give it a minute to take effect and I'll wipe it all off," Robin says as he reaches for the water and cloth.

The dust on her face glows a faint green and then becomes white. Robin wipes her face spotless and then takes the chair across from Sumia.

"What was that?!" she fumes.

"That was to remove your ability to lie and suppress the truth," Robin says.

"I don't have anything you can really use and even if I did, I won't be tricked into giving it to you this time" Sumia probes.

"Well… what's your favorite color?" Robin continues.

"Lavender…" Sumia's eyes grow wide.

"Didn't even hesitate, did you?" Robin confirms, "Let's try one more. What do you miss most about Ylisse?"

"Picking flower fortunes," Sumia responds, "What is this?"

"The powder's effects. My last test question has to be something a bit more personal to test how much you can resist the effect of the hex," Robin grows a sinister grin, "What are your measurements?"

Sumia turns bright pink, sweats, and trembles as she fights against her quivering lips, "T-T-Thirty-…"

"It's like Phila doesn't understand what Cordelia has to deal with because she's always had Frederick. She has no experience in actually finding a man and can't give any good advice besides, 'stay strong,' or, 'you just haven't found the right guy yet,'" Sumia explains

Robin yawns and rubs his eyes, "Yeah sure, I can see how that could be setting her up for failure," he answers without much thought.

"I mean most of us are single and look up to her, so she thinks it's her responsibility to set us up, but she has no idea what to look for in a guy outside of Frederick's qualities, and he's not exactly the easiest person to love," Sumia continues.

"This is not quite what I expected when I asked about the Pegasus Knight Captain," Robin says under his breath.

Sumia continues on without noticing Robins comment, "So Cordelia is just so heartbroken about not finding someone that she thinks it's her fault because she would never question someone she admires so much. I mean Cordelia's so good at everything, except running, but don't tell her I said that, it's her second most embarrassing secret. Right behind the fact that she always wears her breast plate when she's out in public because of her small…"

"Okay, I think that's enough for today," Robin interrupts as he rises from his seat, "Your meal should arrive in your cell within the hour, and this truth hex should ware off soon. As much as I enjoy hearing about your friend's relationship troubles, I have more pressing things that demand my attention."

Robin releases Sumia from the cuffs, "I told you two weeks ago that I don't know as much as you think I do."

Robin helps her up from her seat as well, "No, you just don't think it's important or useful. Even from our conversation today, I learned that your Captain Phila and Princess Emmeryn's guard Frederick are most likely seeing each other in a romantic setting."

"How does that help you?" Sumia asks.

"I imagine having this kind of personal information on two of my biggest obstacles would be useful if I need to negotiate with them," Robin answers.

Sumia pouts, "No fair…"

"Sorry Sumia, war isn't fair, and I'll take what I can get," Robin says as he opens the interrogation room door, "By the way, how did you like the last novel I brought?"

"You mean, 'The Princess Who Fell down the Stairs?' It was fun, though I get the feeling that you picked that one out just for me," she scowls.

"I thought it might boost your confidence reading about a heroine that you could relate to. You liked it though, so no harm no foul," Robin reasons, "Would you rather I bring you another volume of Grimleal texts to read?"

"No! Not another one of those," Sumia panics, "The last one was so boring, and every other word was, 'Grima.'"

Robin chuckles, "Okay, but only because you're such a cooperative for a prisoner."

Robin leads her through the stone corridor back to her holding cell. Books are piled high in the corner and the bedding looks fresh from the wash. The floor is scrubbed clean and an extra set of simple clothes lays on a stool by the bed.

Robin opens the door and ushers her in, "Any requests from the library or do you want to chance it?"

Sumia hums it over in her head, "I would really like the next volume of Mad Tales of a Blood Thirsty Falcon Knight, if you have it."

Robin sighs, "Seriously? Alright, I'll see if I can find it."

Sumia smiles, "Thanks…" Robin closes the barred door and turns away, "Robin wait!"

He turns back to her, "What?"

"Why do the guards torment prisoners in the middle of the night?" Sumia asks.

Robin's face grows bewildered, "What?"

"Last night, and a few times before, I heard screams coming from beneath me. Sometimes I can make out a few words like, 'I can do it,' or 'I won't give in.' I was just wondering, if you have these truth hexes then why do you need physical torture?"

Robin's complexion lightens a few tones, "Must be a criminal dark mage down there. They tend to be more resistant to the hexes we use for interrogations, so we need to use more… aggressive methods with them."

"Oh… okay," Sumia responds.

"I'll get that book to you as soon as I can, see you soon, Sumia," Robin waves back to her as he paces out.

"Bye Robin," Sumia gets out just as he leaves.

Robin speeds out of the dungeon and back to the castles main floors, "Grima, damn it! I didn't think she could hear father and I training two floors down from her," he begins stroking his chin, "This is bad… or maybe not, what could she do that would turn this against me? Then again this isn't the first time it's happened. It may only be a matter of time before she gets some idea that we're not torturing prisoners below her. What if she gets this information back to someone like Crusas somehow and he pieces it together what this could mean?" Robin stops and shakes his head, "Okay, that's just paranoia…" he takes two more steps, "Then again, paranoia is just another name for extreme caution…"

He continues thinking as he walks through the palace and into the dining hall, where Validar and Chrom, looking very uncomfortable, are already sitting at the table, "Robin," Validar greets him, "Come join us, I was discussing with Sir Chrom some of the more endearing Grimleal sorcery findings."

Chrom shakes his head, "Yes… they are very… endearing, indeed," Chrom's brow rises, "You look like you're thinking hard about something what is it?"

Robin strokes his chin a few more times, "Just that we may have a problem… Sumia has been hearing our… Some strange screaming from a few floors below her," Robin corrects himself, "She said she heard it last night and this is not the first time."

Validar nods to Robin, "I see, so you are thinking of putting an end to whatever curse or magic may be causing this screaming?"

"No," robin dismisses, "I'm sure the source is of no consequence. It just caused me to wonder that maybe we could move her into a real room in the castle."

Validar grows confused, "Why is that?"

"Well…" Robin begins, "We've been picking her brain for two weeks, I think we're at the limit as to what information we can glean from her. I asked about her captain and the Pegasus Knights but all I got were more details into her friend, Cordelia's, most embarrassing secrets then I could shake a blade at…"

"Really?! Like what?!" Chrom pipes up.

Robin ponders back on the subject, "That she's an awful runner, she has trouble holding down a boyfriend, and she uses her breastplate the fact that her bus… Regardless I don't think I'll get much more out of her, and she doesn't need to be in the dungeon. Why not move her into a room near the servant quarters? It will be locked when she's alone in there and I'll have guards checking in on her at changing intervals. Even if we have more questions for her, we can easily interrogate her in there. What do you think, father?"

Validar remains silent on the matter for a few moments, "I will allow it, but you must be the one to organize it all and she will be your responsibility while she's here."

Robin bows, "Thank you, father. I will make certain this does not interrupt our activities, especially with the oncoming war."

Validar nods, "Good… now as I was saying to Sir Chrom, with the discovery of raising the dead to a state of semi-human intelligence, the ancient Grimleal had leaped into a treasure trove of researchable…"

"Father?" Aversa walks in, "The Head Sorcerers from the Dark Mage Brotherhood are here to discuss the number of troops they can supply to the army."

"Ah good, I was hoping they would arrive soon," Validar stands from his seat, "I apologize Sir Chrom, we must continue this conversation another time."

He departs with Aversa and leaves Chrom and Robin alone in the dining hall, "At first I was intimidated by him because I thought he could have me executed on a whim. Now… He just kind of creeps me out at times."

"Trust me you haven't scratched the surface of how creepy he can get," Robin sits down and grabs an untouched piece of bread, "So why did you care so much about this Cordelia's secrets?"

"N-no reason, just curious," Chrom fires off.

"Wait, is she the one you fought in Regna Ferox?" Robin probes, "Do you like her?"

"What? No…" Chrom turns red, "She's just one of the few people I know. I don't remember that many people right now and want to find out as much as I can, especially when they're attractive and single apparently," he whispers the last bit.

"I can't believe you," Robin says before taking a bite of his bread.

Sumia gazes at the room she's found herself in. A bed lined with fine material, a large window to let in the sunset, and clothes far nicer than her prison ones, hung in an open wardrobe.

"Wow! This is my new room?" Sumia asks, "Why?"

Robin smirks, "Just think of it as a release for good behavior. We may need to continue interrogations as needed but for the most part you'll be here. The best part is that you can ask a servant to get you whatever you need from the castle. You could get new books from the library whenever you want."

"Could I see the library?" Sumia asks.

"Um…" Robin is taken aback by the question, "Well, that's not exactly in the arrangements… but I guess I could show you. I have some work to do and was going down there anyway."

"Oh, that's okay. I don't want to get you in trouble," Sumia panics.

"As long as I'm there it should be fine. Just stay away from my desk and be on your best behavior," Robin replies.

Sumia nods, "I promise."

"Great, now let's go, it's no too far," he leads her out the door.

Two guards stand ready on either side as they exit, lances at the ready. Robin locks up the room and the two of them continue on. Down the lantern lit halls and to an inconspicuous door. Robin opens it reveals shelves upon shelves of books. Across the room is a large desk with stone and metal pieces resting on various maps and books laying to the side.

"I haven't seen this many books since I visited the Mages College in Ylisstol," Sumia awes.

"It's not the largest collection of books, I have little doubt the Dark Academy and the Dragon's Table have more books stowed away on their shelves than this. However, I do doubt that they have any novels worth reading," Robin jests.

Sumia giggles with him then points to his desk, "Oh are those the pieces that you use to simulate battles?"

"Yes," Robin half answers and half questions, "How did you know that?"

"You told me about them a week ago," she responds, "Oh right, you don't want me at your desk."

"I did?" Robin questions, "Hm, didn't think I would have mentioned it in casual conversation."

"so, are these all yours?" Sumia asks.

"Practically speaking, yes," Robin replies, "Whenever a traveling merchant comes around the city, I buy up all the books I've never seen. I've never been able to leave Plegia save for a few diplomatic trips to Regna Ferox, so books are my only real experience with the rest of the world."

"Awe, that's kind of sad," Sumia says.

Robin shrugs, "Books are good enough though, and I can learn at my own pace. Speaking of…" he paces across the shelves and pulls out a book the same color as the thirty around it, "I believe you were on this volume of, The Mad Tales of a Bloodthirsty Falcon Knight."

"Yes!" she says as she takes to book from him, "Thank you so much!"

"It's nothing really. Though I can't understand how you like the main character," Robin says as he steps towards his desk.

"Why not? What don't you like about her?" Sumia inquires.

Robin pauses, "It's a long explanation and I had some expectations that my sister made building up this book. I really need to get to work though."

"Oh okay, we can talk about it some other time then," Sumia replies.

Robin takes another step but then turns around, "Well, I guess the short version is…"

Robin copies the last few things down in his journal and closes it, "Finally got those terrain reports from yesterday down. Now for today's supply distribution."

He fills out some papers for a few minutes before a knock interrupts him, "Excuse me, Your Highness," a maid says peeking through the door.

"Yes," Robin sighs.

"The girl, Sumia says she wants to see you and return a book she barrowed," the maid explains.

"Oh, sure thing, send her in and keep a guard posted outside," Robin answers.

"Yes, Your Highness," she concludes.

Minutes later the door opens up again, "Hi Robin," Sumia cheers as she enters.

"Stay away from the desk," Robin reminds her.

"Right, sorry," she replies, "I finished the volume you lent me yesterday."

"Glad to hear it. Are you here for the next one?" Robin asks.

"No, I was thinking of taking a break from all that, because of what you said yesterday. It just wasn't the same after you explained what you thought of the heroine."

"My apologies then," Robin responds.

"No-no, it's not your fault," Sumia says, "Besides, I saw this one while I was here," she pulls a book from a low shelf, "This one is one of my old favorites, Ribald Tales of the Faith War."

Robin shakes his head, "Can't say I've gotten around to that one."

"Really, I thought for sure you'd have read it," Sumia awes, "It's supposed to be based on historical events, but all the characters are made up. And there's lots of… Well, ribald parts, but I suppose that's obvious."

"You don't say," Robin says as he sets down his quill and ink, "Is it one of your favorites because of the ribald parts or is there more to it than the title would suggest?"

"Well…" Sumia blushes a bit.

Robin groans in his chair as his head droops into his hand, "Robin, are you okay?" Sumia asks.

Robin shakes his head awake, "Yes, I was just up late the last few nights getting sup- stuff filled out. And last night I has some… specific training that ran pretty late so I'm not running of much sleep at the moment."

"I'm so sorry, this war must wear on you more than people think," Sumia says, "If you want, you can sleep, and I can read in my room so we can talk more tomorrow."

"No, I'm already here and I have work that needs to get done later," Robin answers, "So we were talking about…"

Sumia holds up a familiar book, "Wyvern Wars: Terror at High Noon, you said you liked it and I was wondering why you liked this plot when it's a lot like…"

"Mad Tales of a Blood Thirsty Falcon Knight, right," Robin finishes, "So it's all about set up and delivery. Wyvern Wars, flows perfectly into the climax, with the right kind of build up and…"

As the sun sets in the window, Sumia is deep into her reading and Robin has set himself at his desk, his journal open and maps spread across the table. He pours through his tactical manuals, writing down notes in his journal and looking at the maps of Plegia and Ylesse. The sunlight fades away and a servant enters to light a candle on his desk, Robin doesn't notice as he continues his work. He begins writing battle protocols for the various units and leaders with heavy eyes. Everything from formation basics, to dealing with battlefield thieves, and determining nobility from the other foot soldiers. After hours the candle flickers out and Robin is snapped out of his work by the dark.

Robin's hand glides up his brow and through his silver hair as a yawn escapes his mouth. He twists and stretches in his seat and another yawn looses from his lungs. Groggy, he lifts himself from that table and slumps towards the window. Nothing but dark skies and starlight outside. He shakes his head and rubs his eyes before making his way towards the door. However, he spies Sumia sleeping upright in a chair, the book she was reading on the floor beside her.

"Oh yeah, I forgot about her," Robin shakes his head again, "I could understand me being up this late working, but seriously. You should have been in bed long ago," he casts his eyes round the room, "Can't let her sleep here. Maybe I should…"

His words cease as Sumia begins to stir in her chair. After a moment her eyes peek open and drift towards Robin, "What… time is it?"

As she comes back to life Robin offers his left hand, "Late… Very late."

Sumia takes his hand as he lifts her up, "I'm sorry Robin. I didn't mean to fall asleep. I just wanted to finish this novel, so we could talk about it together."

"You're fine," Robin answers as he leads her towards the door, "I was planning on working late so there's nothing that you've done to keep me up. Come on, let's get you to your room."

They leave the library and walk through the corridors of the castle. Lit only be a few magic lanterns and the torches of passing guards, they travel in shadows. As they near Sumia's room she begins to slow.

"Robin…" Sumia says, "I'm sorry…"

Robin yawns again, "I told you, I was going to work late anyway…"

"No…" she interrupts, "You've been working later and later ever since you let me come to the library and read with you. I've been keeping you from working and now you aren't even sleeping because of me."

"Sumia, I would never blame you for something like that," Robin replies, "I enjoy the time that I can talk with you about novels and stories and wanting to be someone else. A few late nights aren't going to kill me. If I'm going to be a king, I have to learn to put my own needs aside for others, I like to think you're helping me become a better king."

Sumia shakes her head, "Why are you so caring and nice? I thought Plegians were supposed to like watching Ylisseans suffer."

"I would never do that to you," Robin says through a faint smile.

Sumia smiles back and they continue to her guarded door. Robin retrieves the key from his right pocket, unlocks the door and opens it for her, "Thank you, Your Highness," Sumia giggles.

Robin smirks at that, "My pleasure," he replies as he gestures her in with his right hand.

She turns a bit red as her eyes wander around, "Um… Robin… you're still holding my hand…"

Robin's eyes dart down to his left hand. He hadn't let go since lifting her from her seat at the library. He, this time, begins to turn red in the torchlight as he released his grasp. His left hand grabs hold of his right as Robin avoids looking into Sumia's eyes.

"Right… my apologies. I didn't realize… Anyways, goodnight, Sumia," Robin says in a fluster.

"Good night, Robin," she replies with a smile.

She enters her room with cheeks still red as roses. The door closes behind her and her hand jumps up to her heart. The rhythmic pounding in her chest as audible to her ear as it's feeling is to her body.

Robin locks the door and turns back down the way he came, his hands still clutching together. He finds his way to his own room and falls onto his bead, his legs refusing to walk any further. He tosses his coat away, curls up in his blankets, but his eyes refuse to keep themselves shut. As he lays in his bed he holds up his left hand and stares at it as he remembers hers. His fingers curl into a soft curve and with gentile composure, as if holding something precious.

"Her hand was so soft… and warm… and nice…" he babbles, half conscious, "Why am I so hung up on that? I'm tired, it's no wonder I forgot about holding her hand… Right?" his left hand falls onto his chest, "Then why can't I sleep? This, why am I feeling, this? What… What is this?


Alright! Finally, the longest chapter to date! It's been a long week but i was finally able to get this out, at 12 in the morning. Much more liberal with my time skips here, too much? This was a lot more Robin heavy as it gets closer to the end than I intended. Don't worry Chrom and the other Rangers will make more appearances soon. As always, thank you for reading, leave a review if you so desire, and i hope y'all have a good day.