FORGING BONDS

Chrom and Frederick met up with Robin and Lissa at the Shepherd's Garrison. Seeing most of the Shepherds, especially who are close acquaintances, are present, Chrom told them of Ylisse's problem: Reports reveal that more bandit raids are happening and Chrom decided to travel within their realm and stop these raids.

Robin then suggests to Chrom that everyone must prepare tonight so that in the morning, they are set to travel. Chrom agreed and commanded the present Shepherds to do as what the tactician said. He even said to tell the other Shepherds who are not present today. Everyone never questioned the captain's decision and went on their way. Maribelle, on the other hand, could not come for she has important things to do. Since Robin does not have most of her personal items, Chrom will provide her the things she need. By Robin's request, Chrom accompany Robin to the library where she can check the maps for routes and read books.

It is late at night when Chrom went to the library. He learned from one of the maids that Robin is not in her assigned room yet. Chrom then concludes that Robin is still in the library, either working up late or has fallen asleep.

As Chrom opened the library door quietly, he found Robin sitting on a stuffed chair and a table full of books and maps in front of her. She never sensed Chrom's entrance; her focus is on the book she is reading. Chrom could not see her expression for she is wearing her hood. He approaches until he came beside her.

"In the middle of the night, you're still wearing your hood, Robin." Chrom said gamely.

Robin was startled and looked at the person who called her name. "Oh, it's you, Chrom. What can I do for you?" she said as she closed the book and pulled down her hood.

Chrom looked at her for a while, which made Robin uneasy. "If you're here to look at the routes, I've finished them. How about I'll show it to you in the morning?"

"You were crying." Chrom commented.

This startled Robin then she sighed and looked away. "… I was thinking about my mother again." she showed him the book she is holding. It is a fairly thick, blue book. "I happen to be wearing her robe, and in one of the pockets, I found this." she caressed the book lovingly. "It is a treatise on tactics. Sometimes I found her writing it when she thought I wasn't looking. When I approach to look at her work, she would quickly hide it and tell me she'll let me read it once it's finished." she closed her eyes and kept silent for a while before she opened her eyes and faced Chrom, this time a small smile appeared. "But I'm all right now. I need to do some reflection and I figured that Mother doesn't want me to worry. Rather, she would want me to look ahead. And that's what I'm going to do… Sorry if I worried you."

Chrom nods, still smiling. "That's good to hear. It's very late. I suggest we head to our own bed. Goodnight, Robin." he turned to leave.

"Chrom?" Robin called out and Chrom turned to face her. "I've been wondering lately. When you found me on that field, did you ever stop and consider that it might be a trap?"

"Well, that's what I had Frederick for."

"But why did—"

"Robin, if I see someone hurt or in need, I'm going to help them. That's just who I am and there's no changing it. Or would you rather I left you there, facedown in the muck?"

"No, of course not. I'm thankful for what you did, truly, I am. It's just that…" she trailed off, a worry on her brow. She sighed. "Nevermind… You know, I think I'm tired. Guess it's time to sleep."

In the morning, the Shepherds met outside the gates and waited for the late comers.

"Robin, you're carrying those books by yourself. You can't even see where you're going! Here, let me take some of those." Chrom said and took half of the books that Robin has been carrying. "Oomph! These are really heavy."

"Hoo! Thanks Chrom." Said Robin just as Chrom lightened her burden. "Just follow me to the supply cart. That's where I put all my things."

As they started walking, Chrom spoke. "Wait. Are these books from the palace library? Are you planning to bring these?"

" 'Yes' to all your questions."

"But why? I understand maps are very important but these?"

"THESE books are all about tactical warfare. It's important that I study and form new strategies if we are to win battles." Robin replied. "Like my mother said, 'Strategy and tactics is part of learning: it is a never ending quest.'"

"So you're saying that you have to continue to read books regarding warcraft despite what you have learned from your mother?" asked Chrom as they reached the cart.

"Precisely." said Robin as they unloaded the books in a chest. "It's also like training. You keep on practicing how to properly brandish that sword of yours so that you'll become stronger, skillful—"

Chrom laughed. "I get it, Robin. You've proven your point"

After the books are secured, Chrom commented. "In my opinion, what you said makes you sound so bookish like Miriel. Yet it's admirable. I'm glad we had this conversation. Yet for me, the most important of all is to form bonds. I better go ahead and check on the others. We'll talk later, Robin." and Chrom left.

Robin watched him go, wearing a perplexed expression. "Bonds?"

By Robin's suggestion, the Shepherds journeyed south-east. They occasionally encounter small bands of brigands during their journey. To kill some time, Robin talks to the other Shepherds, just like what Chrom has been doing.

Yet she is still puzzled. To her, being sociable is part of life and strategy. Yet when Chrom does it, she could see that there is more to it. As days goes by, Robin could not stand it anymore and told Chrom about her concerns.

"I am willing to make a risk in order to connect with people. People like you, me, others, villagers, strangers… such bonds are the true strength of this army." Chrom then showed Robin how the others interact with each other and some greeted Chrom like a friend. "Without them, we're lost." he faced Robin. "Others may disagree but that's one benefit of leadership."

"Oh… It's like what my mother said to me about the benefits of standing side by side with a comrade. Just like how close I am with my mother…" said Robin as she comprehends the meaning of 'bonds'. A pause then she smiled at Chrom, a determined look on her face. "Chrom, I want to help you make this army strong. I want to help you form new bonds."

"Heh. To make that happen, don't stray from my side." said a smiling Chrom.

Thus a budding friendship developed between the lord and his tactician.

AUTHOR'S NOTE/S:

1.) In case you wonder, Reader, why some of the dialogue seems familiar. It's because some of it I took from the support conversation between (M) Robin X Chrom (one of the best support conversations, imo).

2.) Expect some delays cos I want to make a story not related to Fire Emblem. *siiiigh* I wish there's a way to use another pen name.

3.) Hope you enjoyed the story so far, Reader. Many thanks again to those who post reviews and liked this.