Updated 28 January 2017
Well, I cut over 10000 words off this chapter… so… that's a thing…
Editing tunes: Basso profundo music
This is mainly a political chapter; it serves to set the stage for the next few tales. PAY ATTENTION TO THE FOREIGNERS. THEY WILL BE IMPORTANT IN LATER ARCS.
CHAPTER 10: A SACAEN NO MORE
When Yosef emerged from the side chamber, he found a woman wearing a white cloak and veil blocking his path. Apparently unbeknownst to her, Matthew was standing further down the hall, waving.
"My aunt told me you wished to speak with me," the cloaked woman said.
"Ah, yes, you must be the Ylissean Priestess. Welcome to Elibe," Yosef bowed.
"If you are as worldly as Tiki suggested, you should know why I cannot remain here for long. If you have something to say, do so now."
"On behalf of His Majesty, King Desmond of Bern, I wish to extend an olive branch toward Ylisse, and to you, Your Holiness, so as to help clear my name in the eyes of your people," Yosef pulled from his belt the silver ring he took from the mercenary in Kathelet and presented it to the Priestess, who promptly snatched it from him.
"Where did you find this?" the woman's voice was laced with a mixture of fear, wonder, anger, relief and reminiscence.
"Off the corpse of a mercenary I killed, Your Holiness. Where he received it, I cannot be certain. Lady Tiki told me how long you had been missing it, so I feel it is only appropriate that I return it to you."
"How… how can I repay you for this?"
"That is a rather simple matter," Yosef smiled, dropping the formalities.
"Oh?"
"There is a war coming to Elibe, a great one. The Ylissean tactician… the one who works with the Prince…"
"You mean Sir Robin?"
"Correct. My generals fear him, so if he or any of his companions decide to interfere with the war, it must be on behalf of Bern. I would prefer he stay away altogether."
"Your generals are right to be afraid, rumors of his record are, if you can believe it, understated. I do not believe a more intelligent man exists."
"Then you agree to my terms?"
"Yes. If Robin does interfere, it will be to assist Bern. Otherwise, I will actively prevent his involvement. It's… the least I could do for returning to me my father's ring."
"That… does bring up another point, if I may."
"Go ahead."
"I recently encountered a young dancer… and she… well, have you perchance ever had children?"
"…N-no." Yosef noticed a hint of hesitation in the Priestess' response,
"I see. I must be mistaken, then; please forget my inquiry. I beg your leave," Yosef bowed once more and the Priestess magically warped away. At that moment Matthew decided to make his approach,
"I take it that's the 'true wielder' of the ring you spoke of?"
"It was."
"And what exactly was it you two were talking about? You were speaking too softly for me to hear."
"Do you really expect me to believe that?"
"Believe what you will. I know what the truth is," Matthew winked and walked off, just as Lyn appeared,
"Where are you going?" the plainswoman asked the thief.
"To entertain myself. I'll be back when things get interesting again," Matthew shrugged.
"Don't tell me you're going to pickpocket the passing noblemen."
"I might be," the thief laughed and disappeared before Lyn could offer a retort.
"I beg your leave, m'lady; I have an important meeting in Thria with Lord Wagner, one of the Marquess' top advisers. I should be back within the next few weeks," Yosef bowed, took some powder out of his pocket and threw it at the ground, forming a cloud of smoke for him to disappear in.
Castle Caelin, 28 Sage 979 A.S.
Yosef and Matthew returned around the same time as Lyndis and the other early risers emerged from their bedchambers. The plainswoman couldn't remember much about what happened, so Tiki, who had stayed to monitor the Marquess' condition, filled her (along with Hausen and Pent) in on the events of the battle. Now that it was peacetime, and protection for the castle was temporarily being provided by the Ostian and Etruscan guards who accompanied the Mage General, everyone in the castle enjoyed a long overdue respite. That is, everyone except the Caelian nobles and soldiers, who were in a state of mourning. Sub-Commander Logan was well-respected and irreplaceable, but someone had to fill the position, as well as that of Commander, as Eagler had announced his retirement from active service. Wallace was offered the occupation, but declined in favor of his position in Ilia, Yogi and Sain had no interest and Herman was far too young. Eagler and Hausen resolved that Kent should become Knight Commander, as he was the strongest and most mature of the few remaining soldiers in the Castle Town. Wallace recommended they strong arm Sain into the position of Sub-Commander, if only because he and Kent always worked very well together. Eagler concurred and went to find his former students, who were still grieving for Logan and the other fallen warriors. The battle was hard-fought, and proved to be even more bittersweet than the Legion had initially suspected.
"Lord Hausen, are you sure the cavern you sent me to is the only one in the castle? There's no-one in there," Matthew said.
"That's… impossible! Where else could Lundgren have sent all those people?" the Marquess went pale.
"I don't think he sent them anywhere," Yosef walked in wearing a white doublet, trousers and cape, all with gold accents and lining, "those monsters… I have little doubt those originally were civilians, but were corrupted and perverted by black magic."
"What?!"
"Lundgren's magic… the tomes he carried… I know of exceedingly few sources he could have delved them from. One possibility in particular bothers me more than the rest; there is a druid who is currently a renegade from Bern. We have been hunting her since she escaped from her prison a few months ago, and I believe she may have made a stop in Caelin to corrupt your brother's mind, tempting him with the promise of power. She is heterochromic, and always wears a concealing purple cloak, though her most distinctive feature is the malicious presence she carries… it's a byproduct of the demonic magic she possesses. Have you, per chance, seen her?"
"I can't say that I have, but… why would my brother bond with such a fiend?" Hausen was in utter shock.
"He, like so many others before him, likely assumed he could harness the demonic power the druid presented him without allowing himself to be corrupted. If he were able to do so, he could have accomplished great things… avert natural disasters, stop invading armies, cure otherwise terminal illnesses, you name it. The sad truth is, there has only been one human to master black magic without being corrupted by it, but it can be argued that since she had such a wicked heart to begin with, there was nothing within her soul for the magic to corrupt." Before Hausen could ask any further questions, Yosef walked off. While the Marquess was willing to respect his privacy, his granddaughter was far more inquisitive.
"Lord Yosef, I must speak with you!" she shouted as she ran after the Thracian.
"Lady Lyndis, Now really isn't a good ti–"
"I don't care! I need to know… who is Baligant? Is she in my sword? Does she have any relation to Hanon? And… Nils… that look he gave me…" Seeing the sincere concern on the Sacaen's face and the tears welling in her eyes caused Yosef to sigh and, to a degree, indulge her.
"Baligant was a previous wielder of the Mani Katti. She was as evil as they come, killing far more innocents than anyone could dream of counting. When she was finally defeated, she managed to place a fragment of her soul inside the blade so she could remain on the mortal plane. Nils fears her because he knows what she is: the fourth demon of six prophesied by Saint Elimine to free the devil of his shackles and return him to the mortal plane. As for her relation to Hanon, I'm surprised the guardian of her seal back in Sacae did not enlighten you."
"What are you saying?"
"Baligant is around a thousand years old. She used to be Hanon, a nomad with a penchant for leaning just like you, but her lust for power drove her to darkness. She is the one who caused the Scouring. She is the one who betrayed all the people of what is now Elibe so she could acquire power for herself and her master. She is the Great Wraith."
"Do you honestly expect me to believe that? How can someone live a thousand years? And I refuse to believe that Hanon, the Divine Trooper, was ever a servant of darkness."
"I cannot control what you choose to believe, only share what it is I know. Now if you will excuse me, I have to do some research for the upcoming council meeting, which I was recently informed I have been invited to."
One week later
"Lord Hausen, a courier just arrived from Ostia; this letter is for you," Reissmann took a letter out of his jacket.
"Read it aloud," the Marquess replied.
"Very good, sir. It reads, 'Dear Marquess Caelin, my spies have been following your activities as of late, and being that the Lady Lyndis has arrived, I have decided to call a Council Meeting at Castle Caelin to determine what her status should be. I already notified the other members of the alliance, as well as some foreign leaders, and they have all agreed to send representatives. All the parties should arrive within the next few days. Attached is a guest list of who will be attending. Please make preparations for their arrival. The meeting will officially be held on 10 Archer. Sincerely, Marquess Ostia'. Dear Lord, what are we supposed to do now?"
"Make preparations, of course," a new figure appeared. His armor was about as heavy as Wallace's, but was entirely purple. He carried a tomahawk and an enchanted silver lance. By his appearance, the Marquess deduced he was from Bern.
"Murdock! You made it here quickly," Yosef smiled and the two Bernites clapped each other's shoulders.
"Ezra warped me over here. Speaking of whom, did you know Miriam's pregnant?"
"Really?! Good for her! I haven't had a chance to return to Thracia since I got caught up in this inheritance nonsense."
"I was thinking about giving them some sort of gift… any ideas?"
"Typically it's the women who give gifts in honor of a conception."
"True, but I feel I should give one anyway."
"Then ask a woman. I honestly can't think of anything for a 'baby shower', as I believe they are called."
"I suppose I could ask the Queen."
"That's not a bad idea. Speaking of the Royal Family, weren't you tasked to guard Prince Zephiel?"
"I'm right here," another new voice was heard. Its bearer was a young, blond-haired man in clothing typical of a Bernese prince – an indigo doublet, white trousers, a sky blue cape and a golden circlet.
"Prince Zephiel! Your Highness, forgive my impertinence, but what are you doing here?" Yosef exclaimed and bowed, shocked that the Prince of Bern would travel to Lycia for such a mundane afair.
"My mother thought it would be best for me to experience foreign politics at an early age," came the Prince's response.
"Her Royal Highness is ever wise," the Duke bowed his head.
"If you ask me," Murdock discreetly whispered to Yosef, "Queen Hellene is trying to separate him from Princess Guinevere. Because the Princess was begotten by a mistress, the Queen is not fond of her and even less fond of her son's relationship with her."
"You can confide such beliefs in me, but around others be careful with what you say; such talk could get you hanged," Yosef replied worriedly. The Wyvern General simply nodded.
"So, you're Wyvern General Murdock, eh?" Wallace chuckled as he walked into the room with two oakwood training lances.
"That is correct. Who would you be?" the Bernite replied, putting a hand near his axe.
"I am Marshal Wallace of Edessa. They say you're the best armor knight there is; I want to test that," Wallace smiled as he tossed Murdock one of the lances.
"Err, Marshal, you really don't want to do that," Yosef warned.
"And why not, Duke… Thracia, is it?"
"I've seen both of you in combat and I can assure you that you will be humiliated if you challenge the General."
"We'll see about that!" Wallace laughed and charged Murdock, who simply rolled his eyes, spun his lance above his head, then behind his back, and launched it at the Marshal. The lance sang as it soared like an arrow toward Wallace's midsection. Upon impact, it caused his armor to buckle and sent him flying back. He coughed up blood as he hit the wall,
"H-how…" the Marshal managed to say.
"I warned you," Yosef rolled his eyes as Lord Pent healed Wallace and repaired his armor.
Meanwhile, Ninian was pondering the letter when she realized something.
"Lord Marquess? Lord Chancellor? Isn't 10 Archer the day of the annual gala?" the blue-haired girl asked.
"By the Saint, you're right!" Hausen exclaimed.
"That's why I wasn't exactly enthusiastic about the letter, my Lord. We have to make preparations for a council meeting and a gala on the same day, which is less than a week from now," Reissmann sighed.
"Do you think we can manage it?" the Marquess scratched the back of his head.
"Duke Thracia and General Murdock will provide any assistance you require," Zephiel said proudly.
"R-really?" Eagler, who just recently entered the vicinity, replied.
"The Prince ordered it, so it shall be done," Yosef and Murdock bowed their heads, though they were perturbed by the mundane nature of the task they were assigned.
"That works for me. I want everyone, that includes you, Reissmann, to do everything possible to prepare. I don't want anyone slacking off or simply giving orders. Yes, I will be assisting as well," Hausen commanded.
"With that much manpower, I am confident you will be prepared by then," came a new voice. From the front gate, five new faces entered. Hausen recognized them as Marquess Uther Ostia, Marquess Elbert Pherae and his son Lord Eliwood, along with Sir Oswin and Sir Marcus from Ostia and Pherae, respectively.
Uther had blue hair, was wearing blued steel field armor and had a very long cape similar to a king's. He had a killing edge at his belt and a silver lance across his back. Most notable about his appearance were the scars on his face; one went across the bridge of his nose and the other went diagonally down his forehead.
Elbert had red hair and a thick moustache. He carried a rapier at his side, and was clothed in a blue, suede nobleman's coat over white robes. Over his coat was a floor-length cape which draped over his shoulders and upper arms. Eliwood was dressed no differently than he was when he first appeared before Lyndis' Legion.
Oswin was wearing dark orange full-body armor – typical of a Lycian general – and had a brave lance on his back and a killer axe at his side. Marcus had the same color scheme but was wearing Paladin's armor and had a silver lance and sword.
Uther looked around for familiar faces.
"I must say I'm surprised how few have showed up by now. I sent out couriers on Pegasi to the other cantons over a week ago and contacted foreign leaders via scrying crystal," he frowned.
"Knowing Etruscans, their representatives are probably going to warp in, in full dress, shortly after the start of the gala. That way, they skip the speeches and what they consider to be 'droll' introductions and get right into the main event. I believe they call this lifestyle 'fashionable tardiness'. As for the other Lycian leaders… well, Caelin is one of the more pragmatic cantons, so most of the Marquesses are probably waiting until the last minute to arrive so they can stay in their own luxurious environments for as long as possible. All the Bernese representatives are here, and as for anyone else you may have invited, I'd have to know who you contacted in order to make an educated assumption," Yosef shrugged. Marquess Ostia, along with Marquess Pherae, nodded in agreement.
"I am curious as to just how many people will be attending the conference. Lord Chancellor, may I see the guest list?" Murdock raised a brow.
"I don't see why not." Reissmann handed the list to the General, who gave it to Yosef as he could not read the author's handwriting.
"Well?" Murdock asked.
"From Lycia, the entire council, of course. From Bern, us. From Etruria, Counts Pent Reglay and Naimon Caerleon. No-one from the other countries in Elibe, unless you count Marshal Wallace of Ilia, who is here unofficially. In addition, it seems Lieutenant General Excellus and Brigadier General MacMillian from Valm are coming… and from Yl-"
"So this is Caelin? Can't say I'm terribly impressed," A blue-haired man appeared. He was wearing a dark blue double breasted jacket, grey trousers, steel gauntlets, pauldrons and riding boots and a knee-length white cape. One of his jacket sleeves was cut off, revealing a very muscular arm with a black mark matching the one on his belt buckle and the back of his cape. Accompanying him were two lance-bearing soldiers in comparably ornate armor, a young woman in a beautiful yellow silk dress, somewhat clashing with her shoulder-length blond hair, who was carrying a staff and some luggage, and a heavily armored, brown-haired man who bore an expression similar to Marcus'. He had a silver lance on his back and a silver sword at his belt. Nils found himself distracted by the blue-haired warrior's sword. While it lacked a guard, the blade split at the base and curved around, almost mimicking the shape of the roots of a tooth. The design was identical to the one he saw in the vision he received while fighting Lundgren; the only differences were the colors, which were silver and blue instead of black, purple and red, and the nature of the aura, which was bright and peaceful instead of dark and malevolent.
"That sword…" Nils shuddered.
"You mean Falchion? What of it?" the blue-haired man drew his sword and twirled it around for show.
"I've seen it in a vision… only… it had a black, malicious aura."
"Then it was not my sword you saw. Falchion was crafted millennia ago from the fang of Naga herself, so it would never give off a dark aura."
"Well, the original Falchion was. Yours was crafted from the fang of Nagi, Naga's mortal reincarnation, during the Schism to combat Grima. The true Falchion disappeared with the Hero-King Marth shortly after his wife died," Yosef said and bowed slightly, "forgive the interruption; I am Lord Yosef, Duke of Thracia. I am here to represent Bern's interests in the upcoming council meeting."
"Ah, so you're the asshole who shifted Bern's support to Grimleal terrorists!"
"Neither I nor any of my colleagues have any affiliation with the Grimleal. The documents I arranged on behalf of my King simply cemented an economic alliance between Bern and Plegia. And last I checked, Ylisse was fairing rather well without our support, my Prince."
"That's a prince?!" several people in the room shouted, not expecting any nobleman to wear that sort of clothing.
"Oh, right," Reissman cleared his throat and stepped forward, "everyone, this gentleman is Prince Chrom, younger brother of the Exalt of Ylisse. With him are Princess Lissa, his younger sister, and Sir Frederick, a commander of one of Ylisse's militias."
"I'm a prince in name only. In practice I'm the Captain of the Shepherds, a mercenary group in the service of Her Grace, Exalt Emmeryn. You can address me as such," Chrom said bluntly and allowed himself a confident smirk, "Yosef, I was just bustin' your chops. I don't care much for politics; I'm just here to make sure no-one takes advantage of my sister. The blond-haired woman, presumably Princess Lissa, then stepped forward and curtsied. Upon seeing that she was carrying a great deal of the luggage, Sain ran up to the group with a look of disgust.
"How could you two let this delicate young maiden carry around all the luggage by herself?!" Before he knew it, Sain was hit over the head and knocked to the floor by a staff.
"I AM NOT DELICATE!" the Princess screeched like a banshee… almost like Serra, who coincidentally just walked into the room alongside Erk.
"Oh, no, not another one!" the Etruscan rubbed his temples.
"HEY, WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?!" Serra screamed back. Erk fell to his knees with a migraine and groaned.
"I wanted to be the one," Natalie chuckled. Dorcas – of all people – let out a loud guffaw in response.
"Hey, what's with all the screaming?" A third figure entered the room. He was a rather tall man with thinning blonde hair and blue eyes. Clothed in a green wool jacket and trousers, he truly looked foreign. On his jacket were a variety of medals and patches, likely indicative of his rank and achievements. Behind him was a mostly bald fellow, who was shorter and somewhat heavier, and was wearing similar clothing, only it was grey and had even more decorations.
"Prince Chrom? What are you doing here?" the heavier man asked.
"We were told Her Highness Princess Lissa was going to be Ylisse's representative," the taller one added.
"She is; I'm just here to protect her, hence I'm carrying my sword."
"Everyone, these are the representatives from the Valmese Empire. The taller one is Brigadier General MacMillian of the Valmese Imperial Fourth Army, and the more decorated one is Lieutenant General Excellus, the Emperor's tactician," Lissa smiled and the two Valmese soldiers bowed to her.
"A tactician, eh? Explains his weight…" Wil muttered. Excellus heard the archer, ran up to him at a speed that seemed impossible for someone of his size, and roundhouse kicked him to the floor.
"Don't judge a book by its cover," the General smiled as Wil groaned and struggled to get up. Chrom and MacMillian were chuckling in the background.
"Anyway, gentlemen – and Princess Lissa – how did you get here so quickly? I understand that you could have been warped here, but how did you receive word of all this?" one of the Caelian nobles questioned. As the foreigners delivered their explanation, Zephiel pulled Murdock and Yosef aside.
"Is Princess Lissa really the one the Ylisseans sent to represent their country? She's so young!" the Prince of Bern asked his advisers.
"I highly doubt that Exalt Emmeryn takes this seriously, my Prince. In her view, what happens in a canton as minor as Caelin would have little to no effect on her country. Plus, King Gangrel's aggression has put everyone's mind on what may or may not happen between the two rival powers," Murdock responded.
"Emmeryn may be passive, but she's not dumb," Yosef furrowed his brow, "she knows that a civil war in Lycia would ripple throughout the globe, and make no mistake, whatever happens today will undoubtedly plant the seed that will sprout into the greatest war Elibe has seen in centuries."
"Are you certain of that?" Zephiel said.
"If not in the near future, than certainly within the next half century. Continental conquest requires a great deal of planning and preparation," Murdock added, much to the Prince's shock. Zephiel was well aware of his father's personal desires, but he never thought his court took them as professional.
"See those men behind Frederick?" Yosef looked toward a handful of well-dressed Ylissean nobles standing behind the Ylissean knight, but was careful not to point, "those are the real diplomats; Lissa is merely a mouthpiece. I believe Emmeryn hopes using someone so young would throw us all off-guard. We must be careful not to let that happen."
"Are you certain the Exalt is capable of that? All those reports we've received… I doubt she's that cunning," Murdock folded his arms.
"Tyron has been observing her personally, and from what he's told me, she's significantly smarter than she lets on."
In the corner of the room sat Ninian, enjoying an old book she found in the Castle Library. Lissa was too busy declaring herself to the denizens of the castle to notice, but Chrom had to stifle a gasp.
"Hey Frederick, it just me or does that girl bear a remarkable resemblance to the Priestess? Judging by her ears, she's human, but still…" Chrom asked his lieutenant.
"By the Gods you're right! How is that possible?" Frederick responded.
"…Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" the Prince smiled mischievously.
"I believe so, my Prince."
"…Hey miss, can we talk to you for a moment?" Chrom called out to Ninian and approached her.
Lyn could not help but stare at Kent as he and Sain tended to their horses. Florina could not help but notice this,
"So, Lyn, I see you've found a suitor in Sir Kent!"
"W-what?! No! H-he's my vassal and–"
"Lyn, I saw the look in your eyes."
"Florina, I'm not–"
"Don't deny your heart! I made that mistake once with Zelots, and to this day I regret never telling him how I felt! Now he's with Juno, and there's nothing I can do, or really want to do! So long as he's happy, I'm happy. Nevertheless, I still harbor feelings for him and I don't think I'll ever shake them."
"Ah, I admit I do feel a certain… kinship with him. He's… like a big brother, almost, the way he protects me and all, but… he does not have my heart. That belongs to… someone else," Lyn blushed and shifted in her place.
"Who would that be?" Florina put her hands on her hips.
"I… nevermind. Forget I said anything,"
"If this is about peerage, I don't want to hear it. Lyn, I don't care who your grandfather is! You are still a proud woman of the plains, and you can't separate yourself from your origins! Take elements from both cultures and become the best of both worlds! Reveal your feelings to Kent – or whomever it is you are attracted to – and if your grandfather truly loves you, he will give you his blessings!"
Lyn had not actually thought of peerage before, but now that Florina mentioned it, the topic did begin to concern her, "Florina, it's not about what my grandfather thinks. I doubt anyone on the council would approve, and it might cause a civil war! I've read Lycian history; quarrels between houses have never ended well!"
"Then win the council over with your honesty, determination and courage! They will soon come to see you in a positive light, and perhaps you may even help them to set aside their other quarrels!"
"I wish it were that simple…"
"It is! Just open your eyes, and you'll see!"
"She's right, you know," Eliwood said as he approached. When Florina saw it was him, she yelped and hid behind Lyn, the confidence she had previously displayed completely gone.
"How much did you hear?" Lyn asked, embarrassed by the thought that the Pheraen may have witnessed her interaction with her friend.
"Only that Dame Florina is trying to convince you to not abandon your Sacaen heritage."
"Eliwood… you know that I must. The council… I cannot rely on Sacaen values to make them see me as worthy of their respect. I… I don't want to bring my Grandfather shame."
"Hmph. Those aren't the words of the Lyndis I met in Kathelet."
"What?"
"When I first met you, I saw nothing but strength in your eyes. Your determination to do what was right overwhelmed any other desire within you. Back then you cared little about what others thought of you; if you did something you felt to be wrong, you would not be able to live with yourself."
"You… you're right… both of you are right. I swear on my honor to never doubt myself again."
"N-now t-that's more like it!" Florina said, trying to recompose herself and the three moved on to other activities.
Lissa, was walking down the corridors inspecting the artwork when suddenly, the Priestess appeared directly in front of her with an angry glare and a hand resting in the fold of her cloak, presumably on her dragonstone.
"L-Lady Priestess! W-what are you doing here?! I-I thought you hated Elibe!"
"I do, but the transgressions you've committed as of late are so terrible they require my presence here!" the blue-haired Demigoddess responded. Lissa stepped backward, not noticing the shadows of Chrom and Frederick emerging from the hallway behind her.
"Close your eyes and bow to me!" the Priestess commanded. Lissa, fearing for her life, did not object. As soon as she was bent over fully, Chrom appeared from around the corner and kicked her right in the rear, sending her flying forward and onto the floor. He and the Priestess laughed; even Frederick couldn't help but allow his lips to curl upward slightly.
"That was for all the pranks you pulled on us when we were younger!" Chrom managed to say, "alright Ninian, you can pull your hood down." The Priestess lowered her hood, revealing that she WASN'T actually the Priestess; merely a human lookalike.
"That was in terrible taste!" Lissa moaned as she slowly got up.
"And covering my bed with venomous snakes wasn't? You made me get on my hands and knees and beg you to use a restore staff!" Chrom smiled and put his hands on his hips.
"Please forgive my bluntness, Your Highness, but do I need to bring up the incident when you took one of Miriel's incomplete tomes and tried to use it on me? When I began lecturing you on what happened the last time a stunt like that was pulled, you fell asleep while leaning against a wall!" Frederick frowned, "you're quite lucky she was yet to pour any mana into it, or it might have backfired and disfigured you! Magic is not something to be taken lightly!"
Frederick was going to continue his rant, but Chrom noticed Lissa was starting to fall asleep again and in turn simply resolved to zapping her in the rear with a light, mostly harmless burst from Falchion, causing her to yelp and fall back down on the floor. Frederick rolled his eyes and walked away, leaving the princess with Chrom and Ninian, who couldn't keep themselves from laughing further.
Yosef went to the guest chamber Reissman reserved for him. The suite, while simple, was large and quite nice. The door opened to a turret-shaped foyer with a secretary desk opposite the entrance. In addition, there were a dining and two living rooms as well as a private powder room and a master bedroom with a full bathroom and walk-in closet. The master bedroom was attached to the second living room, which was separated by velvet drapes. Before walking through them, Yosef took note of the design of the main room. Circular oriental rugs were placed in rows atop hardwood floors. The plaster walls had portraits of the Eight Legends and the ceiling was painted with artwork of the Scouring. The furniture was simple – leather couches, oakwood desks and a glass coffee table. A kitchenette and servant's quarters were attached, separated by a door that had locks on both sides. After he felt he had seen enough, the Thracian walked behind the curtains into the bedroom. In it was a King-size feather bed complete with a canopy and bamboo sheets and pillowcases. The bathroom had an enchanted tub that, after reading incantations in the scroll provided, could fill itself with fresh or soapy water. There was even a spell to automatically clean a person! Yosef was not magically inclined, but he presumed the necessary mana was contained in each scroll and made a note to copy the draconic text onto clean scrolls to be installed in his personal palace in Bern. He took off his cloak and shoes and placed them in the closet, then proceeded to lie down on the surprisingly comfortable bed to meditate.
Not five minutes had past when the Duke was disrupted by someone knocking on his door. He rolled his eyes, got dressed and answered it.
"Count Reglay! I'm afraid to ask how you knew I was here," Yosef bowed his head politely.
"I… convinced… the Chancellor to tell us," an old man appeared next to Pent. He had short, balding white hair and wore a blue doublet and white trousers. He kept an Elfire tome and a decorative dagger on his belt and a multi-purpose staff in his hand.
"Duke Yosef Thracia, allow me to introduce my most trusted adviser, Lord Lewyn. He is quite the scholar, and when he received word that you would be here, he called my crystal and begged me to let him come. I saw no reason to deny him. So if it's not too much trouble, would you mind entertaining his questions?" Pent smiled.
"I have no objections. Come in, Lord Lewyn," Yosef bowed to the wizened man, recognizing him as the Grand Elder of the Nabatan Oasis of his birth.
"Thanks, Yosef. I'll see you at the gala," Pent said and walked off.
"Yes. Yes you will," Yosef chuckled under his breath. As soon as Lewyn walked in, the Thracian gestured for him to sit on a chair by the coffee table, though he himself remained standing.
"What brings you all the way out to Caelin, Lord Elder?" Yosef said when Pent was out of earshot.
"I needed to see if what I sensed was true. I need to know if the Mani Katti has indeed been found… and is in the hands of one of Hanon's folk."
"…Your senses are yet to betray you. But I have taken a personal interest in this girl… I believe she is the one I encountered fifteen years ago… the one I swore I'd help defend."
"Any word of Sable?"
"Still missing. I have developed some suspicions but I am not going to act on them until I have more proof. One of my Lopto connections is working on that case."
"Lopto? Can he be trusted?"
"He's a true believer who studied under Vladimir II himself. Thanks to Gnosis, I've known him for multiple lifetimes and I trust him with my life. He is one of two who I can say that of; the other is in a deep slumber, and will be until he is called upon."
"I didn't think there were any left who followed Loptyr's true teachings rather than the twisted, blasphemous nonsense Galle created after the Dark One deceived and corrupted him."
"There are a few, yes; I happen to know several people who are among them. I personally am a staunch Eliminean, though thanks to my experiences in the desert I can look past the more… discriminatory teachings. Now, is there anything else you need?"
"Only a question."
"Yes?"
"You do realize that if Lyndis is declared the heir to the throne of Caelin, a civil war will undoubtedly ensue."
"That is the desire of His Majesty King Desmond."
"I cannot believe you would endorse such violence. What happened to the humble scholar I once knew?"
"He is now in the service of Bern. My loyalty to my country supersedes my personal desires."
"And what of your sense of morality?"
"I no longer have that luxury. In Etruria, moral codes were regarded in the highest respect, so keeping to them in the service of King Mordred was an easy task, but in Bern… if you do not show loyalty to King Desmond, you have no place anywhere in the country."
"I still do not understand why you left Aquleia. From what you told me, you were more than happy working in the Royal Library."
"It's true that I enjoyed my work, but Queen Hellene personally requested that I join her court. I suspect it had to do with the fact that we were members of the same house."
"Yosef, I know you too well to fall for that."
"…Aquelia reminded me too much of what I lost. I think you know of what… of whom… I refer to. Now, if there is nothing else, I would like to meditate and prepare for the upcoming council meeting." Lewyn nodded and bowed out.
Wallace, enraged at how badly he lost, had decided to train in one of the practice rooms beneath the Great Hall. He had been practicing for over an hour when Frederick walked in.
"Excuse me, would you happen to be Marshal Wallace?" the Ylissean asked.
"Yes, what of it?" the Ilian responded gruffly.
"I heard you were humiliated by a Bernese general; would you happen to kno-"
"Humiliated? I'll show you what humiliation is!" Wallace roared and threw his fist out as hard as he could toward Frederick's gut. The Great Knight sighed and punched the Marshal's fist, fracturing many bones in the latter's wrist, fingers and arm and dislocating his shoulder.
"Grah! Wh-what is going on today?! How did you-" Wallace screamed.
"I'll go find a healer… then I'm going to challenge this General Murdock fellow, if you could kindly tell me where he is."
"If you can find Prince Zephiel or Lord Yosef, you'll find Murdock. They're all Bernites so naturally they'd stick together.
"Thank you; I'll go send for a healer," the Great Knight said nonchalantly as he left.
After tracking down a healer – a young, pink-haired cleric who seemed excited at the chance to help someone of Wallace's rank, Frederick started searching for Prince Zephiel, as Wallace had suggested. Due to the clothing the Bernite Prince typically wore, he wasn't hard to track; the Lieutenant of the Shepherds found him in mere moments, standing next to two knights, one wearing heavy field armor and the other Wyvern riding armor. Frederick assumed one of them was Murdock and the other Yosef.
"Forgive me, my Prince, but do you know where I can find Wyvern General Murdock?"
"That would be me," the field knight responded.
"They say you're the best Armor Knight in Elibe. Is that true?" the Ylissean Great Knight asked.
"At the risk of sounding arrogant, I'd say it is," the Wyvern General responded.
"I am Frederick, and they say I am the best Armor Knight in Ylisse. Care to see who is stronger?"
"This ought to be good," Chrom appeared with Lissa and chuckled.
As the Ylissean charged, Murdock performed the same move that he used on Wallace, only Frederick was faster than the Ilian had been and managed to completely dodge the throw. He continued to charge, but before he could hit him, the Wyvern General deflected the spear with his gauntlet, spun forward and elbowed the Ylissean in the gut. While he did drop his spear, Frederick recovered quickly and delivered a roundhouse kick to Murdock's head, sending him to the floor. Before he could retrieve his weapon, however, Frederick found himself being tripped by the Bernite, who kicked him in the shin. The two armor knights got up, retrieved their weapons and resumed combat. For what seemed like hours the two thrust and blocked each other's lances, neither one beginning to tire. Sometimes, when the spearheads collided, the ground shook. Eventually, Frederick resorted to a strategy Sir Robin taught him – he stayed on the defensive and pretended to look like he was tiring. Murdock, unaware of the bluff, thought he saw an opening and lunged with all his might. In response, Frederick dropped his spear to lose weight and increase mobility, stomped on Murdock's with his left leg and delivered the strongest kick he could to Murdock's forehead with his right, sending the Bernite flying to the ground and knocking him unconscious.
"Frederick, that was amazing!" Chrom applauded as Yosef and Zephiel attempted to wake the Wyvern General.
"You can thank Sir Robin for that victory. He was the one who taught me the art of deception," Frederick responded humbly.
"Who?" Yosef said, though his eye twitched slightly as though he already knew the answer and didn't like it.
"The latest member of the Shepherds. He's a remarkable mage, swordsman and tactician, which is surprising considering he's an amnesiac."
"An amnesiac, eh? Makes you wonder what he used to be," Yosef said, his tone betraying nothing.
"What happened? How did you-" Murdock muttered as he rose.
"You're the second knight to ask me that today, and I'd say you were lucky – the first one now has fractured bones all the way up his right arm," Frederick had to suppress a smile.
"Excuse me," Lyn said as she entered the vicinity and looked to Chrom, two practice swords in her hands.
"Hm?" Chrom smiled in anticipation.
"I am curious about how the swordsmen of Ylisse fight compared to those of Elibe. I am Lyn of the Lorca, and I challenge you to a duel."
"Lorca, you say? I've fought your fellow tribesmen in the arenas… they're formidable warriors, but none have managed to surpass me. I wonder how you'll do," Chrom's grin widened as he accepted a sword from the plainswoman. Lyn assumed a plow stance, but the prince simply let his sword hang in his right hand and folded his left arm behind his back. Growling at the arrogant display, Lyn charged, only to find her strike easily blocked and parried; she barely managed to dodge the Prince's counter strike. Lyn went in for a second attack, this time a backhand downward slice aimed at the right side of her opponent's neck. Chrom circled his sword around clockwise, batting her sword completely out of the way. He then delivered a left hook to her cheek, sending her to the floor. Lyn recovered quickly and delivered a flurry of rapid strikes, which Chrom easily blocked. It soon became apparent that the Prince was toying with the plainswoman, so Lyn decided to resort to shadow technique, a form of magic performed with ki, the source of physical strength, rather than mana. In the blink of an eye, she disappeared, reappearing in the sky on a tangent, then quickly launched herself downward toward the prince. Chrom, with his eyes closed, blocked the strike with his sword, at which point Lyn phased through him and tried the same attack from a different angle, to no avail. Again and again she flew at him without success, finally resorting to a feint. She appeared to be coming from behind, and when Chrom moved to block her strike, the plainswoman phased through to his front before making contact, then flipped around and thrust her sword at his face. When Chrom bent backward to avoid the blow, she curved her sword inward past her hip and prepared to launch a horizontal strike to his waist. The prince simply smiled and faster than Lyn could track brought his sword down on the plainswoman's hand, disarming her, then thrust the sword quite hard into her chest, sending her to the floor with two bruised, but not broken ribs. Unlike Murdock, she managed to remain conscious and slowly rose to her feet. Lissa, quite impressed, healed her on the spot with her staff.
"Still conscious after that? You're made of some stern stuff, Lyn of the Lorca," Lissa smiled.
"One thing did surprise me, though," Chrom added, "you don't fight like a Lorca; you fight like a Chon'sinian, specifically like a swordmaster from the Old Capital."
"Well, my mentor was born in a foreign land. She never told me exactly where, though. Her name is Karla; in some places she's known as the Sword Princess."
"Karla was your mentor," Chrom let out a guffaw, "and here I thought that walking block of ice was physically incapable of forming a bond remotely close to one like that!"
"Y-you know her?!" Lyn raised her brows.
"Know her? She's my rival! You see, in Regna Ferox, Arena fighting is a national event; thousands of warriors from all over the world go to compete. The top 100 are ranked and given titles. I'm 13 and she's 14, though that has switched every year for the past 5."
"You're 13th in the world?!" MacMillian's jaw dropped. He and Excellus were apparently watching the fight as well.
"Yep," Chrom's tone was so nonchalant he almost sounded bored, "anyway, I'm going for a smoke. Mac, Ex, you two are welcome to join me," Chrom said to the two Valmese, who were more than happy to do so.
10 Archer, 979 A.S.
It was time for the ball, and as always, the Etruscans were absent. The Lycian nobles had all arrived, as had some Bernese, but not a single representative from Etruria had walked through the castle gate. Prince Zephiel wore his typical regal garments, Yosef and Murdock wore more elaborate versions of the armor they typically wore, the guardsmen cleaned theirs, and the nobles put on their finest clothing. Ninian, however, was wearing a more elegant version of the blue silk dress she typically wore. In addition to being more full-fitting, it had a bright blue jewel in the center of the chest. On her waist she wore a beautiful white sash and on her arms she wore ornate, elbow-length silk gloves. The Valmese representatives both wore more elegant versions of the decorated wool jackets they had worn earlier, and Lissa walked in wearing a stunning blue dress. She treated her hair to make it wavy instead of straight and applied extensive makeup to her face. She kept her staff with her and was carrying it similarly to how King Desmond tended to carry Eckesachs. Chrom and Lyndis were nowhere to be found. After a few moments, Chrom burst into view, and to Lissa's delight, he changed his outfit.
"You see, Yosef, the difference between me and you Bernites is…" the Ylissean prince smiled and posed tauntingly, "I make this armor look good!" His armor was of the same design as Yosef's, but rather than having enchanted silver components magically colored white, he had blued steel pauldrons, gauntlets and grieves and polished steel faulds, tassets, breastplate and backplate. His turtleneck, like Yosef's, was royal blue. He tucked his magically-modified white cape under the pauldrons, making it still look like a soldier's cape in spite of its length and fabric. Also like Yosef, he kept his sword behind his waist rather than at his side.
"You couldn't pull off white armor to save your life. I, on the other hand, acknowledge that blue doesn't work for me. Even though our garments are the same shape, patterns can make or break them."
"He's got a point, brother," Lissa shrugged.
"Yeah, whatever. Anyway, where's the so-called heiress? If she's as well put-together as the other Lycian noblewomen, I think I may be able to get through today without drowning myself in liquor," Chrom yawned.
"How much did the Exalt tell you about her?"
"Nothing, surprisingly. Lady-, err, the Priestess didn't say anything either."
"Does your Priestess really have people addressing her as a noble now?" Excellus crossed his arms.
"Well she is the Queen of Shechem, technically," Lissa noted.
"Then why doesn't she have people address her as 'Your Royal Highness?'" MacMillian asked.
"Too many painful memories, I'd bet," Chrom sighed.
"From both Elibe and Ylisse, if what I've read is correct," Excellus added.
"Anyway, I strongly suggest you temper your expectations of Lyndis; she wasn't raised by nobles," Yosef cautioned.
"So that's why we're having this big meeting!" Lissa said.
"Oh, how bad can she be?" Excellus chuckled.
"Just… be prepared for anything. If you fail to become so, don't say I didn't warn you." As soon as Yosef finished his sentence, a castle maid came out from behind a door on the second floor of the ballroom and called the attention of the guests,
"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Lady Lyndis Caelin." Lyndis walked out from behind the maid looking almost unrecognizable. She wore a floor-length teal dress with gold cuffs and piping. The dress had a scoop neckline so for the first time since she was a toddler, she was publicly displaying her Odo Holy Mark, which drew much attention from the foreign ambassadors, though none of the Elibians (save Pent, Lewyn, Ninian and Nils) seemed to notice or care. She still wore her emerald Sacaen earrings and Lorca tribal necklace, and her hair was conditioned and allowed to hang free, falling all the way to her lumbar. What did seem odd was the fact that she kept the Mani Katti tied to her sash.
Upon seeing her, most of the men dropped their jaws, Kent blushed profusely and excused himself, many of the women seemed jealous and Yosef and Hausen smiled proudly.
"Striking…" Eliwood said, seemingly in a trance, causing his parents to smile and Ninian's eye to twitch.
"You're right Yosef… I really wasn't prepared for this," Excellus whispered to the Thracian and moved behind MacMillian. Chrom seemed to have the same problem and elected to move behind Frederick.
"That's not what I meant, but alright," the Bernite chuckled.
"Then what did you mean?" Frederick frowned.
"Look at her jewelry. Do you recognize the patterns?"
"Can't say that I do," Chrom shrugged.
"Well then, I suppose I'll explain once we sit down."
Before Lyn descended the staircase, she extended her arm toward a side corridor, from which emerged Florina, who was wearing an identical dress to Lyn's, only it was lavender instead of teal. Lyn took her best friend's arm in her own and the two walked slowly down the stairs, their feet moving in unison.
Hausen went to meet his granddaughter at the top of the stairs, kissed her hand, took out a scroll and prepared for his speech.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, I am proud to host the first ever council gala with representatives from overseas. Please, let us extend a warm welcome to Generals Excellus and MacMillian from Valm, and Her Royal Highness Princess Lissa of the Haildom of Ylisse, along with her companions, Captain Chrom and Lieutenant Frederick of the Ylissean Militia." The Great Hall filled with respectful applause, though none of it truly seemed sincere. When it died down, Hausen continued,
"I know many of you may have reservations about my granddaughter due to her father's lineage, but I am sure her charm, intelligence and sincerity will win you all over. As one of my teachers once told me-"
"This isn't going to end well," Yosef muttered.
"-even in the worst crops there are good seeds. As we all know, Sacae is not the most civilized of realms; they don't even have an organized government."
Chrom raised a brow in confusion, then realized the woman standing before him was the Sacaen he sparred with.
"Huh. Wasn't expecting that," Lissa shrugged. Neither she nor her brother seemed to care about Lyn's heritage.
"But Lyndis is not like the others in that nation. I have heard she frequently went to Bulgar, buying new books from the various merchants who visited from neighboring lands. She often asked questions of her tribe's seers, as she felt they had the most knowledge. She did whatever she could to do what was best. She even was granted the privilege of wielding the Mani Katti–"
"She wields the WHAT?!" Lissa's passive visage shifted to one of anger,
"That's Baligant's blade! Who gave it to her and how can she wield it?!" the Prince shouted and put a hand on Falchion; the Valmites moved to restrain him.
"My prince, please!" Excellus begged.
"That sword has the Priestess' blood all over it! What would she do in this situation?!"
"Fortunately, she's not here," MacMillian sighed.
"Can we please allow cooler heads to prevail?" Excellus threw up his arms.
"My Prince, I have been observing this girl quite closely, and I can assure you she does not share Baligant's evil. I give you my word on my honor that you have nothing to worry about from her," Yosef pleaded.
"On your honor? Very well… but if she does turn–"
"Then people far more powerful than any of us will terminate her," Excellus cut in.
"Lord Hausen, I apologize for my brother's behavior; it will not happen again. You may now continue your speech," Lissa said in the most polite tone she could muster.
"I no longer think there is a need for that. I can tell there is a lot on all of your minds, and I feel it would be best if we skip to the festivities," Hausen sighed. Moments later, Count Naimon, Countess Eliza and Lady Priscilla Caerleon, Countess Louise Reglay and a few other Etruscan noblemen and women warped in. Yosef noticed Lady Bethany of House Essex, a woman he had been considering courting, was among them.
"Ah, are we late again? Shame. Well, better late then never!" Naimon smiled.
"These Etruscans truly have no shame," Lord Erik Laus, who had accompanied his father, Marquess Darin Laus, scowled, "if a war breaks out between them and the Bernese, I know where my support lies…"
"Son, that language is inappropriate for gentlemen of our stature. Though I do agree with you, there are better times and more tactful ways to express such opinions," the Marquess responded.
With the discreet help of Excellus' magic, the noblemen eventually got over their shock at Chrom's outburst and went to their seats, where they were treated to some hors d'oeuvres and a selection of the finest wines in all Lycia (which didn't even begin to amuse the Etruscans, who were used to their own fine vineyards). At Prince Zephiel's table sat Lords Pent, Lewyn and Naimon, as well as a host of Bernese noblemen, but the Prince himself, as well as Yosef and Murdock, were conspicuously absent.
"You really look beautiful, Florina." As Lyn smiled at her friend, she saw Reissman approaching her,
"Well, don't you two look lovely," the Chancellor smiled, "you're sure to attract suitors from all over the continent!"
"We're not looking for suitors," Lyn responded, "Florina and I have decided to attend this dance together as partners."
"M'lady, what you do on your own time is your business, but in public you have to show a certain face. You cannot give off the impression that you prefer women over men," Reissman said uncomfortably.
"And why not?"
"People are already concerned about your father's heritage… and… you are the only known grandchild of the Marquess. Lycia is already on the brink of civil war, so any little thing that breaks from the status quo might just push us over the line."
"Oh, just let the girls have fun while they're young," Yosef smiled as he approached the trio.
"Of course you'd say that," Reissman frowned, "you foreigners would like nothing better than to see Lycia crumble to bits! I will not let that happen as long as I draw breath!"
"My dear chancellor, do you really believe the whole world is out to get you?"
"Don't take that tone with me, Lord Yosef. I can see through you all too easily!"
Yosef's expression then abruptly shifted from kind and warm to dark and cold,
"Paranoia is unbecoming, Lord Chancellor." The Duke then returned to Murdock and Zephiel, who were waiting in a corner.
"Lord Reissman, I am beginning to believe Lord Yosef was not incorrect," Lyn said worriedly. The Chancellor then pulled her aside and sat her down,
"Listen, in the world of politics, no one can be trusted, especially not the Bernese or Etruscans. For centuries, those two have been competing for dominance in the continent, and the only thing stopping them from going to war is a united Lycia. The Kings know that whoever attacks first will face the might of two powers, and therefore they do not risk war. But if Lycia breaks down, nothing will stop them from destroying the continent in a war of conquest!"
"I've traveled with Yosef a full month, and I cannot believe he'd be so devious!"
"Let me tell you something about Lord Yosef. He is typically assigned to deal with Etruria, but when you're suddenly discovered, Lord Tyron Fafnir – the Bernite usually responsible for Lycia – conveniently disappears to Ylisse, leaving the job of monitoring you to him. Since then, he's weaved his way into your circle. Tell me, have you noticed him trying to push his beliefs on you or your soldiers?"
"…"
"That's what I thought. He's been molding you so you can do exactly what he needs to initiate a civil war. On top of that, as you probably know, he recently paid a visit to Thria to meet with Lord Wagner. Why would a Duke meet with a mere adviser? Thria and Bern both claimed it was because Marquess Thria had fallen ill, but why wouldn't Yosef wait for his situation to improve? It's simple: Yosef knows Lord Orun would never betray Ostia, but his subordinates just might be swayed to fight for Bern. During the upcoming council meeting, watch him give you his undying support before Marquess Ostia. If you are accepted, it will unite half the cantons against Uther, and the other half will fall in line once the Bernese call in their favors. And then there's Murdock, who is also in attendance. While Yosef was pulling strings here in Lycia, he and Prince Zephiel have been attending several meetings across Etruria and its colonies. King Mordred has always refused to meet with them, but his advisers have consistently been more open. If the Bernese can create civil wars in both Etruria and Lycia, nothing will stop them from continent-wide domination."
"What… what am I supposed to do?"
"Just… be careful… that's all I can ask."
Meanwhile, Yosef, Zephiel and Murdock stood in the corner discussing recent events.
"How was your meeting in Thria?" Murdock asked Yosef.
"Productive, to say the least. As I suspected, the Marquess' counselors are not overly fond of his treatment toward them. They'll support us when the time comes. What about Etruria?"
"Better than I expected. The two noblemen who have expressed interest in supporting us seek ends that do not conflict, so we will have no trouble controlling them when the dust settles."
"Then everything is in place as my father wanted?" Zephiel asked.
"Not quite, my Prince."
"The pieces may be on the table, but developing a strategy for a war of this scale takes time," Murdock said.
"Not to mention we have to be sure that we have enough allies; not even our army can single-handedly take on an entire continent by itself."
"Perhaps we should discuss this later," Zephiel cut in, "it would seem we are drawing a fair bit of attention."
"You're very observant, my Prince. Very well, let us move on to more... immediate matters," Yosef smiled.
"Oh?"
"We are at a major political function, and you lack a partner."
"It is justifiable that you did not arrive with one, as there are no high-ranking noblewomen in Bern close to your age, but now that you're in the presence of the Princess of Ylisse, perhaps you should try making an overture?"
"What?"
"A marriage between a Bernese Prince and an Ylissean Princess would have grant a variety of political and economic privileges to our country, so it's definitely something worthy of your consideration."
"I... have very little experience in these matters," Zephiel said sheepishly.
"Then, my Prince, allow me to demonstrate how to attract a mate," Yosef's smile widened to a full grin as he walked over to Lady Bethany. Zephiel and Murdock stayed in earshot, but were careful not to get too close.
"Bethany Essex, you are ever a sight for sore eyes,"
"Yosef Eton Thracia, always a pleasure," the Etruscan noblewoman extended her hand, which the Bernite promptly kissed.
"I'm surprised to find you without an escort; you so rarely show up to parties alone!"
"Well, it's not easy to find Etruscan nobleman interested in Lycian galas. Then again, you should know that; you were a Baron of House Eton once."
"Technically I still hold that title, just as Queen Helene remains Viscountess Eton."
"I am well aware of how you were granted Lordship over the South of Bern. What does spark my curiosity is why you remain the Queen's dance partner whenever King Desmond chooses to attend parties with his mistress."
"I am the only Duke who is unattached, and forgive my immodesty, but I have some skill on the floor. I would be more than happy to demonstrate, if you would grant me the opportunity," Yosef extended his arm confidently.
"Gladly," the Etruscan lady smiled and accepted the Bernite's request. As they walked off together, Yosef cast an encouraging glace at his Prince.
Taking the cue, Zephiel approached Princess Lissa at her table. Prince Chrom shot him a suspicious glare and rested his hand on his sword, though he did not make any other movements. The Prince of Bern was frightened by this, but not deterred.
"Princess Lissa," Zephiel bowed.
"Prince Zephiel, what can I do for you?" Lissa responded with a smile.
"I was hoping you would permit me the honor of a dance," the Bernite extended his hand. Lissa looked to Chrom, who gave an approving nod before taking a sip of his drink.
"I would be delighted," the young Princess accepted the Prince's hand and the two moved to the ballroom floor. Murdock watched the pair and smiled; he remembered when he was first tasked to guard Zephiel when the young royal was not yet five. How much the Prince had grown was a testament to Murdock's skill as a mentor, which the General was very proud of.
An hour had passed since the ball began, and Lyn was growing increasingly uncomfortable. She was enjoying her time with Florina and her grandfather, but she felt completely out of place, something the Ilian was quick to notice,
"Hey, Lyn, if you're as uncomfortable as I am, how about we change out of these ridiculous clothes, find a training room and spar for a little while?"
"That sounds like a very good idea," the half-Lycian smiled and the two left to change into training gear.
Eliwood was seated with his parents Marquess Elbert and Marchioness Eleanora Pherae, Marquess Uther Ostia, Marquess Orun Thria and his family, Ninian, Nils and a few Etruscans. Elbert and Eleanora, along with many other couples, got up to dance when the castle's chamber orchestra began to play a waltz. Eliwood, seeing the opportunity was upon him, stood up and approached Ninian.
"Well, Ninian, you did say you would dance with me; is this music familiar to you?"
"Yes," the sky blue-haired dancer replied.
"Well then… would you do me the honor?" Eliwood extended his arm, which Ninian gladly took. The nobleman kissed her hand before leading her to the dance floor. Not long after they started, the only other couple that the other nobles could keep their attention on was Elbert and Eleanora. When he saw all the attention was on him and only three others, Eliwood blushed, though he didn't let it affect him. His parents and his dance partner were all too caught up in the moment to notice anything. They were moving as gracefully as deer traverse the plains, and the young nobleman was in a trance staring at Ninian's beauty. He realized he was starting to lose his balance, and quickly got himself back on track and continued to dance into the night.
"I do wonder what happened to Lady Lyndis," one of the Etruscans raised a brow, "I don't see her anywhere."
"If she's anything like my brother – which I suspect is true – she probably made a swift exit as soon as she found the opportunity," Uther shrugged.
Lyn and Florina had both discarded their dresses and make up, trading them for training gear – close-fitting tunics and short skirts made of fabrics that wick away sweat. Lyn held a training sword and Florina a wooden spear. They dueled for hours on end, with Florina trying to increase her skills at keeping foes at a distance and Lyn refining her sword techniques. Lyn won most of the rounds, but Florina, on occasion, managed to taste victory. Eventually, they grew tired and sat against a wall.
"Ah, Florina, I will always be grateful to have you by my side," Lyn sighed. Florina responded by inching closer and leaning into her, resting her head on her shoulder. The half-Lycian simply smiled and rested her head on top of Florina's. It was at that moment Sain and Kent burst into the room, completely oblivious to the fact that it was occupied by the two young women.
"Kent, it's time we settle this. If I win, you let me do as I please without complaint, and if you win, I promise to give up my womanizing ways!" Sain grinned and leveled a practice sword at his partner's head.
"Let's see if you can keep to that," Kent responded, doing the same.
"Funny, I was about to say the same." The two knights then launched themselves at each other and clashed swords with all of their might. Neither Lyn nor Florina cared, as they were too busy enjoying each other's company. Eventually, Sain and Kent struck each other's blades so hard, both practice swords broke simultaneously.
"Err, what now?" Sain chuckled nervously.
"You stand at attention and listen up," Eagler said gruffly as he and Wallace entered the room.
"Commander! Marshal! What brings you here?" Kent stood firm before them.
"You've both been promoted," Wallace said gruffly.
"Excuse me?" Sain's jaw dropped.
"I'm retiring, and I've named the two of you my replacements. Congratulations, Commander Kent and Subcommander Sain."
"My condolences," Wallace chuckled, "instead of fighting enemies on the battlefield, you'll be drowned in paperwork."
"B-but what about all the ladies I'm yet to meet?" Sain whined.
"Don't worry, boy. In your position, girls'll come running to you," the Ilian Marshal laughed and walked out before either knight could deliver a retort.
"He's right, you know. The ladies love a powerful man," Eagler sighed, "well, I'd best be off. Don't want to keep the Marquess waiting."
"Well... that happened..."
"Congratulations, gentlemen," Lyn and Florina walked over to the pair, which, in no small part due to the ladies' revealing outfits, shocked the hell out of the knights,
"GAH!"
"GRAH!"
"M'lady, what are you-"
"Why are you-"
"But..."
"Wallace was right!"
"This is so wrong..."
"I should..."
"I'd like to..."
"We have to..."
"Bye!" Sain and Kent finished together, blushing profusely, and bolted out of the training room.
After the gala ended, Uther summoned the other members of the Alliance, as well as Yosef, Murdock, Pent, Naimon, Lissa, Excellus and MacMillian to Caelin's Council Chamber. Everyone took their seats, bearing stoic expressions.
"Now that we are all here, let us begin," Marquess Ostia stated, "I will hear opening statements."
"I believe we should not label Lady Lyndis based on her birthplace," Count Caerleon began, "when I adopted Priscilla Cornwell after the fall of her house, I found that she acted like a native Etruscan before I even started teaching her. I know Lycian and Etruscan children are raised similarly in their earlier years, but as a father, you naturally notice even the most subtle of differences between children. Who's to say that Lady Lyndis isn't the same? From what I've heard, she is vastly different from her Sacaen kinsmen. I believe we should give her the benefit of the doubt, especially considering she has been traveling with Lycians for the past few months."
"I can attest to Count Caerleon's point about fatherhood," Darin Laus added. "My son Erik has always been different from his peers. Yes, he was always social, and yes, on the surface he appeared no different than the other noblemen, but as a father I could see he had his own ideas that he simply wasn't willing to express, as he feared he would be judged poorly by his peers if he had. However, I am not willing to simply give someone the benefit of the doubt. I would advise that we learn of her beliefs, then make the decision."
"I concur with Lord Darin-" Elbert Pherae started.
"That's a welcome change," Helman Santaruz sighed.
"-about both points. Though I wouldn't be sure exactly how to fairly judge her beliefs, considering she was born in Sacae, a nation vastly different-"
"And inferior," Malcolm Araphen muttered.
"-from our own," Elbert finished.
"Which is precisely why we shouldn't allow her to become a noble! It may not be her fault where she was raised, but the truth is she was born in Sacae and does not have the capacity to become a responsible leader," Tydeus Tania exclaimed.
"I still concur with the decision made at the meeting Lord Lundgren arranged last month – Lyndis should be allowed to stay in Caelin and be treated no differently than any other Lycian villager, but she should not be allowed to succeed Lord Hausen," Octavian Kathelet said.
"I feel the same," Tydeus and Helman said simultaneously.
Yosef spoke next, "as we discussed at the aforementioned meeting, since Lady Madelyn eloped, according to Lycian law she forfeited her claim and by extension the claims of her offspring; therefore Lyndis is an illegitimate heir. However, since this meeting is being held, that law is obviously being ignored. As Marquess Ostia, Lord Uther, you of course have that right.
"As for my personal feelings, Lyndis has proven to be willing to learn. We cannot fault her for the actions of her forebears, nor can we in good faith deny Lord Hausen happiness, as he has been through much over the years and deserves to live the rest of his life in peace and without regrets."
"I agree with the representative from Bern," Pent said, "whatever her mother's choices were, Lyndis should not be held accountable for them."
"To an inexperienced barterer, that was a good sales pitch, but we noblemen know better," Tydeus sneered, "the two of you simply want the girl to be accepted so we would fight amongst ourselves about her legitimacy, possibly leading to a civil war that would break Lyc–"
"We've been over this, Lord Tania. If I wanted to break Lycia, I have far more efficient and effective means of doing so," Yosef said darkly.
"Oh really? And how is that?" the Marquess responded.
"One day, you might just find out," the Bernite allowed himself a slight smile, causing a great bit of tension. Lissa tried to break it by cutting in,
"Well, I think it's great to have an outsider join your circle. Her unique perspective on life might serve to enrich the Alliance."
"The Princess makes a good point," Excellus added, "also, since Lyndis is of common blood, she might connect with the populous more than the typical noblewoman."
"Common blood is not the concern; the people of the plains are the most savage in all Elibe. We can never trust them," Malcolm spat.
"I would not say most savage, Lord Araphen," Orun Thria added, "after all, the desert rats in the Nabata have given us a great deal more trouble over the years than the plainsmen."
"Your experiences are with the nomadic marauders, not the dwellers of the Oases," Pent rebutted, "my family has a vacation home in the Nabata, and most of the people we have encountered have been quite friendly."
Yosef, a Nabatan himself, was conspicuously silent on the matter.
"Hausen, what is your stance? Please try to be as objective as you can," Uther turned to the Lord of Caelin. A few of the other Marquesses, most noticeably Darin, sighed, knowing what was about to come.
"Well, all of you know I support my granddaughter and will stand by whatever decision she makes. As such I will not offer an argument, for it will undoubtedly be subjective and unfit for this conference."
"I think most of what has already been said was subjective…" Orun muttered.
"That doesn't make it right," Hausen countered.
"I believe we should grant Lady Lyndis a few words," MacMillian cut in,
"She's not here, and even if she were, she has no say in the matter," Malcolm responded gruffly.
"I believe it is time to take a tally," Marquess Ostia rubbed his eyes, "it is getting late. Those in favor of declaring Lady Lyndis heir to the Caelin throne, raise your right hand. All the Marquesses save Araphen, Santaruz, Kathelet, Tania and Worde, raised their hands, as did the foreign representatives. Uther yawned out of exhaustion. The gala had gone on longer than he anticipated and he was more than ready to call it a night.
"Majority rules, then. Lyn of the Lorca will forevermore be known as Lady Lyndis Caelin, heir to Marquess Hausen Caelin. When the time comes, she will assume the role as Marchioness. Hausen, you, Reissmann and Eagler are tasked with preparing her."
"Understood," Hausen replied happily. The representatives all left for their assigned quarters and called it a night.
Well, that's that. Next chapter is the epilogue, then it's on to Tale 9x, where we transition to focusing on the Awakening cast!