Hey Everyone, I'm back.
First I need to clarify as to why I have been away for so long and haven't been uploading as much as I wish. I explained in earlier chapters that I was going through some family issues, I'm not going into extreme detail but my sister had gotten involved with some drugs and I've been taking care of her while she gets clean. It's been hard on my family especially since my summer vacation is coming to a close in a few weeks. That and this chapter was a little hard to write.
I would like to give shoutouts to Bantz and Mlpfan11, fellow reviewers who have shown their concern for my current issues and support for the Tactician Magician and I am very thankful.
Also, if anyone has time, make sure to check out defog2000's latest fic, The love of the silent fool, a YuXNaoto love story. Give it a read, it's really good.
Without further ado, here's the 25th chapter.
As the sun set, Robin quickly got out of his cot and dressed himself. As he stretched his arms he went to his desk and pulled out his Book of Naga and went back to studying his spells. With the three ancient tomes now in his tome, he was stronger than ever before. He watched as he felt the power of his new spells in his hand and he smiled at it's potency. After he finds the remaining future warriors, he would have to pay Jorge a visit and thank him for his help. Were it not for the former Southtown citizen, he would never have been able to have acquire such incurable magic tomes.
Not only that, but I never would've been able to have acquired this power were it not for my new friends of the future. From how things are going, I just know we're going to change things for the better.
He smiled with optimism in his thoughts. Robin and his team have managed to accomplish every objective so far without fail. The Stonewall Knights have been very helpful during the grandmaster's mission and can't think of a way to repay them.
But even with all that we're doing on this island, I know it's only temporary. That's the way of the world. Crime will return, it's inevitable. I need to think of creating a permanent system before we leave for Valm.
Just then, he heard his tent bell ring.
"Grandmaster? May I come in?" A voice was heard from outside.
"You may enter." Robin granted the voice outside entry. As he looked up towards the entrance he saw Miriel's son enter the tent with a new outfit. "Good day Laurent, I see you got yourself a new change of clothes."
"Yes, Sir Gyral was kind enough to accommodate me some better clothes."
"Well from the outfit, and your weapons, you have the makings of a Sage. We could use another healer in the group and once we're back with the Shepherds, I'm sure the others will welcome you with open arms." He smiled.
"Thank you Grandmaster, your kindness is appreciated." The sage gave a nod. "Although I am actually here to file a complaint."
"A complaint?" The grandmaster wondered what the Sage had to complain about. "What's the problem?"
"Well you see, back in the future, I made sure to monitor everyone's status and ensure that they were fit for battle. You have to understand Grandmaster, the lands were very dangerous and many were sick so I took it upon myself to carefully watch each and every soldier to make sure they were fit for combat." He explained.
"So in other words, you would monitor the personal health of your comrades?"
"Precisely." The Sage nodded. "As you are the Shepherd's tactician and the leader of our small group, you are without a doubt one of the most if not THE most important member of our team. Therefore, I have taken upon myself to monitor and maintain the physical and mental state of our comrades so you wouldn't have to trouble yourself."
"Wow." The grandmaster smiled at the Sage's initiative and is grateful that Laurent cares so much for everyone. "I appreciate it Laurent, but you said you had a complaint earlier?"
"Well… it appears that Nah has misinterpreted my intentions. She believes that I am a and I quote 'lecherous lout' and claims that I am and I quote 'completely taken in by her adorable veneer' even though I have stated to her that my intentions are purely professional."
"Have you tried explaining to her that it was a misunderstanding?" He asked.
"Yes! Several times, and she continues to insist that I have untoward inclinations toward her!" He began to lose his patience. "Just this morning, she yelled for help that I was planning on kidnapping her and Sir Gyral's men have begun harassing me!"
"Laurent calm down. You're losing your cool." The grandmaster asked as he was taken aback by the the Sage's outburst.
"Ah, of course, forgive me." The Sage began to calm down. "Anyway, I've notice that Nah is particularly fond of you so I was hoping that you could talk some sense into her, it's affecting my duty."
"I'll have a word with her." He told the Sage. "In the meantime, inform the others our next destination is the Mercenary fortress."
"At once Grandmaster!" Laurent said as he turned to leave.
"Oh and Laurent." The grandmaster called out, halting the Sage in his tracks. "No titles between friends, I prefer Robin."
"Of course, Robin." The Sage said as he left the tent. "My initial suspicions were inaccurate. A man such as him could never be the rumored 'traitor' we've heard about in the future. My friends placed their trust in him, and so shall I."
"I expected more professionalism from you Nah. You can't just jump to conclusions without substantial evidence." The grandmaster lectured.
"Robin, he's always looking at me and the others. Plus he's got this twisted glare that makes you shiver just by looking at him. He has the look of a creeper!" She exclaimed.
"That's just a lens glare. His mother has one too. He explained that he was just looking out for your personal health Nah, so please apologize to him and clear this up." He demanded as he fears that the manakete's accusation will make Laurent into a pariah.
"Alright. I'll apologize." Even thought she said she would, she still pouted.
"And besides, if he does try anything, I'll protect you." The grandmaster smiled as he gave her a pat on the shoulder.
"Oh, th-thank you." She blushed and giggled.
Robin then ended his talk with Nah and focused on the road ahead. It took a few hours before they finally arrived at the Mercenary Fortress. True to it's name, it was a real fortress, almost as big as Castle Ylisse. True to Jorge's information, this place is the perfect home for any sellsword. However, it is unknown if any of these mercenaries have any sort of moral code like Gregor as this place was recently taken over by Nelson, a former Valmese General turned thief. This may be one of Robin's most dangerous missions yet.
"The Mercenary Fortress." Gyral admired it's beauty. "You know I've been here a few times myself."
"How is it?" The grandmaster asked.
"It's a beauty Grandmaster. It's like an Inn for sellswords. However, me and my men haven't been here since this Nelson fellow took over."
"I see." The grandmaster looked on as there were only two people standing out front guarding the door. "The place doesn't seem heavily secure. Looks like no one is expecting trouble."
"So, what's the plan boss?" Brady asked.
"Hmm." The grandmaster, thought through his head for a plan to accomplish this difficult task. "This will probably be our most difficult task yet. Gyral, are the Stonewall Knights welcomed here?"
"I would say so Grandmaster. We're mercenaries after all."
"Good." He then turned to address his team. "This is a very risky mission so you must listen very carefully. Even the slightest mistake could cost us our lives. Are we clear?" Each member of his team nodded. "Okay, here's the plan. We enter the Fortress as members of the Stonewall Knights. They should welcome us with open arms. Once we get in, blend with the crowd and see where Nelson is hiding out. Once we do that, we find him and capture him. I want him alive, not dead. He has information that could greatly help us in the upcoming conflict against Valm. Any questions?"
"Grandmaster." The Sage raised his hand.
"Go ahead Laurent."
"Not to question your plan, but I highly doubt any visiting mercenaries will tolerate this place's owner being kidnapped. If they were to attack, should we fight back?"
"Hmm." The grandmaster thought it over before coming up with a response. "If they attack you, incapacitate them. These men and women are simple sellswords trying to make a living so there's no need to kill. Once we explain Nelson's crimes, I think it'll go much more smoothly."
"Whenever you're ready Grandmaster." Gyral told him.
"Remember, if things go wrong, pair up and regroup, I will not allow any of you to die. That's my promise as your leader, tactician, and friend."
Each member smiled at his promise as they knew they could trust his plan as they knew the risks of following him instead of reuniting with their parents. They didn't care because they trusted him enough to follow him. In their minds, they wished that he was with them in their future.
They accompanied Gyral to the Mercenary Fortress. As soon as they reached the front the guards didn't stop them or hold them up for being suspicious at all. They just gave a simple nod and as they walked in.
"Hey Robin." Kjelle whisperred in his ear.
"What?"
"Is it just me or was it too easy to get in?"
"It was. Far too easy. Keep your guard up. I wonder if Nelson is expecting us."
As they made their way into the fortress, it seemed nothing to shady at all. In fact, it is as Gyral said it was, a beauty. Mercenaries from all over the world were here, talking and drinking like they were best buds.
I'm starting to wish I had invited Gregor to come with me. He'd have a field day here.
"This place hasn't changed in the slightest!" Gyral laughed.
"Geez, what a bunch of pigs." Nah scoffed at the many mercenaries who were getting drunk and falling all over the place.
"Stick to plan everyone. Try and converse with the more sober ones though." Robin remarked and everyone spread out to gather information.
I'll separate myself away from everyone. If Nelson see's his new visitor alone that might drive him out of hiding. Robin thought. Hmm, I wonder if they have a library? He thought to himself as he looked around to see if this place has a study.
"He finally showed up." Nelson grinned as he saw his target enter his fortress alongside a group of Stonewall Knight mercenaries. "I knew sending my associates out to do my work would eventually draw you to me, Grandmaster of Ylisse. Your hatred of crime knows no bounds."
He was wondering when he would show up. And as he saw the Grandmaster separate himself from the others and headed to the libary, he knew it was time.
"Holland!" He called out.
"Y-Yes sir." A weekly man walked up to Nelson at the call of his name, clutching the pot helmet he was wearing out to help calm his nerves.
"The Grandmaster of Ylisse has finally arrived. Capture him and bring him to me." He commanded.
"But S-Sir, I-I'm not sure I can…"
"Are you questioning my orders fool!" He growled.
"N-No Sir, it's just, when you hired me, you said I would be doing decent work, not kidnapping." He stepped back wondering what Nelson would so next.
"How dare you!" He yelled. "That man is my one chance to take the Fire Emblem!" He turned and looked at the Grandmaster from his window. "Once he's in my grasp, That fool Prince Chrom will have to exchange the Fire Emblem for him, after all, they're best friends." He laughed. "And once I have that, I've practically claimed the throne!"
"S-Sir, it's just-"
"I don't want to hear another word out of you! Unless you want that wife and unborn child of yours to be sacrifices for Lord Grima?!"
"N-No Sir!" He begged. "I-I'll do as you ask."
"Good! Now get to it!" He demanded as Holland left the room. He looked back to the window, overseeing all the mercenaries who came here. He spat in disgust. "This island sickens me to the very core! Look at all these fools!" He looked at each of them as they chatted and drank more. "Everything will go according to plan. Once I have the Fire Emblem, I'll have to make sure my Revenant pets tear this island asunder. Praise be to Lord Grima for creating such useful tools!" He clutched his staff and grinned before laughing hysterically.
"Gawds!" entered a woman which soured Nelson's mood. "Could you be any more creepy?"
"Oh, you." He spat as he did not want to look at her. "What do you want dog?"
"I'm not your dog scum!" She snapped at him.
"No, only a stray mutt that refuses to stop yapping." He rolled his eyes before thinking of how he could put his minion to use. "How about you make yourself useful and help Holland capture our new visitor."
"Why should I? Who is he?"
"None of your business mutt. All you need to do is hurt em enough so I can capture him. Now shut your mouth and do as I say if you ever want-"
"Yes, yes, if I ever want to see it again. I'm well aware. Gawds, you're so annoying!" The woman said as she left his presence. She took a good look at the man she was ordered to capture and wondered why Nelson would want him. "That coat is… familiar… who is he?"
Robin was directed to the library by one of the more sober visiting mercenaries. As he entered, he was astounded by how big it was. As the mercenaries likely came her just to chill an drink, it would be no surprise that the study would be empty. He walked to the middle of the room and looked at the books around him and smiled.
Incredible. I could spend days reading everything in here.
Just then, the door to the main room shut by itself which startled the grandmaster.
Seems like Nelson took the bait.
He chuckled as he simply waited for the scumbag to show himself, already having multiple plans in his head. If he were to attack the grandmaster himself, he would simply incapacitate him then and there. However, there was a strong possibility that he had help, in which case he would utilize the Einherjar and break the door open to warn his comrades. Either way, Robin was sure he would be okay.
Robin then went to the nearby table and picked up a book that caught his eye. It was a book on the War of Heroes, which tells the story of Prince Marth and his trusted companions as they fought against the Prince's former friend Hardin who was corrupted by the Dark Pontifex Gharnef and how he became the new King of Archanea after slaying the Shadow Dragon Medeus and the Earth Dragons for the final time.
I wonder if Grima has any ties to the Earth Dragon clan? It would explain how he was killed by the First Exalt using the Fire Emblem and Falchion. He thought to himself. Or maybe he's a new type of dragon. But, if that was the case, then he must have descended from one of the major Dragon Clans in the past.
Robin's ear twitched as he heard footsteps from behind him approaching his direction. From the way he was standing, whoever was behind him is probably thinking that he was distracted by reading the book. what they didn't know is that the grandmaster had his hand on his Levin Sword the moment the sound of footsteps entered his ear. As they got closer and closer, Robin pulled out his Levin Sword and pointed at whoever was behind him.
"AHHHHH!"
The strange man yelled as he was startled by the grandmaster's Levin Sword so much that he fell backward. As he fell on the ground, Robin took one good look at the man, he wore simple green tunic, typical outfit for the average villager, with a pot on his head in the form of a helmet much like Donnel. He appeared to have been carrying a Silver Lance which he dropped when the grandmaster startled him. Judging by from how frightened he look and by how he was dressed, it was clear this guy had little if not any combat experience.
"You shouldn't sneak up on people like that good sir, that's a sure way to get yourself killed." The grandmaster sheathed his weapon and held out his hand for the man to take. The man hesitated but grabbed his hand to get back on his feet.
"Umm…" Once he got back on his feet, he wondered what the grandmaster was going to do.
"So." Robin smiled as he went back to the table, picked up the book he was reading and continued where he left off. "You working for this Nelson guy, or are you just a visiting mercenary?"
The man took one look at his sword and saw that he wasn't holding onto it. He picked up his Silver Lance and nervously approached the grandmaster.
Is this guy for real? Robin though as the man approached him from behind with his lance in hand. He's planning on attacking me? Guess he does work for Nelson. Although I wonder why he would send an amateur after me.
"Silent type huh?" Robin asked trying to break the silence which halted the man in his tracks but after a second or two, he continued moving in his direction. "That's a little… irritating."
It was that last remark that the man stopped, he gripped his lance with shaky hands, knowing that he could be making a mistake, but as he pushed those thoughts aside, he thrusted his lance into the grandmaster's direction, attacking him.
However, at that moment, Robin turned around and caught the blade of the lance with the book that he was previously reading, shocking his attacker.
"So much for conversation." Robin gave a little shrug, a little disappointed that the man thought he catch him off guard so easily.
The man pulled back and went for another attack but Robin dodged that one as well and sent a swift kick into the man's chest, sending him backward.
"ARG!"
The man dropped his lance as he fell back onto the ground. He reached for his lance but the weapon was kicked away by the grandmaster. Robin looked into the man's eyes who appeared to be frightened, thinking that he was going to die.
"I'm to guess you're working for Nelson, that's the only reason you would attack me like that, which also allowed me to confirm that he is here, he knows I'm here and that my actions on this island have caught his attention." He spoke firmly. "Which also proves that he has engaged in criminal activity and that his suspected petty thievery may not be the worst crime he's committed. That's the only reason he would want to attack someone such as myself. I used your actions to be able to deduce that much, thanks for informing me."
"P-Please, don't k-kill m-me." He begged for his life.
"I have no wish to spill blood of those who don't deserve it, but you did attempt to kill me, that can't go unpunished, especially if you're allied with a criminal." He informed him.
"N-No Sir, I beg of you! I wasn't going to kill you, only capture you!" He let out which made him only more frightened than he already was, telling him that probably made him a target by Nelson.
"Capture me? Interesting." The grandmaster was a little surprised. It was time to get the full story as to what this Nelson guy is planning. "Talk."
"But if I d-do, he'll k-kill me."
"If you don't…" Robin pulled out his tome and in a split second, his hand was engulfed in electricity. He brought it to the mans face which scared him deeply. "…I'll kill you."
"Okay! Okay!" He screamed, hoping the grandmaster will cease his threat as the sparks of electricity emitting from his hand were stinging his face. Once he did, he calmed himself down before speaking. "Nelson's plan was to capture you and arrange a hostage exchange with Prince Chrom for the Fire Emblem! He was going to use the Emblem to take over Ylisse, I swear that's all I know!"
"Is that so?" Robin scoffed at what he had just learned. The plan in itself is ridiculous, as the Ylissean people would ever except a pile of garbage like Nelson as their new Exalt. Just imagining it made him ill. "So how do you factor in his grand plan?"
"I was just trying to find decent work. Nelson said he would reward me but I wanted out ever since I found out what he does for a living. Now he said he'll kill me and my family If I try to leave him." He began to cry as he pulled out a locket. He opened it and showed it to the grandmaster. "Please understand sir, my wife… she's pregnant."
The moment those last two words hit the grandmaster's ears, he immediately felt his stomach wretch for threatening this man. He wasn't a criminal or some criminal lackey. If anything, he was a victim.
"What's your name?" The grandmaster asked.
"I-It's Holland s-sir." He told him.
"That's a good name. My name is Robin, although I'm sure you already knew that." He stood up and took a few steps back away from Holland. "Listen Holland, I understand that you love your family and that you have a heart. I saw how you hesitated to attack me earlier and even though you did, you kept thinking that you were about to make a great mistake."
"How did you…" He was stunned, it's almost as if the grandmaster knew his very thoughts.
"However, aligning yourself with a criminal makes you his accomplice and that cannot go unpunished." He said as Holland tucked his head in between his legs, believing that he was in serious trouble. "However, given the circumstances, I'm prepared to make a deal with you."
"A deal? what kind of….AH!" He yelled as he looked over the grandmasters shoulder.
When Holland let out that little yell, the grandmaster turned around and felt a sharp blade inches away from his throat. It appears Nelson sent in another one of his henchmen after Robin in the event that Holland had failed. He took one good look at the person holding a blade close to his neck. She was a woman, appeared to be slightly younger than him wearing what appeared to be the typical armor of a mere mercenary as the broad shield on her left shoulder made it obvious. She had her red hair in pigtails and gave her opponent a nasty scowl, almost ready to kill him in an instant.
"Get away from him, or I'll slit your throat." She warned him.
"Tch." He scoffed. "Nelson sends another one of his lackey's after me? Too much of a coward to face me himself?"
"Shut up!" She yelled. "I'm no lackey of that idiot!"
"I don't really care." He shrugged before swift moving his neck away from her blade and grabbed her wrist to keep her from using her sword arm. He then tried to kick her but blocked it with her broad shield. It protected her from being hurt, but the force of his kick pushed her back away from him.
"Damn you." She then got into her stance as if she was preparing for a fight
"I've no interest in fighting you. Get lost." He warned her as he pulled out his Levin Sword and Tome.
"Then get interested!" She yelled as she leaped into the air, went into a spin and came crashing down onto his blade.
Robin then strike her a few times with his blade but she was able to successfully block each and everyone of his attacks. Whoever this woman was, it was obvious that unlike Holland, she had experience in combat. The grandmaster sent lightning bolts from his sword in her direction only for her to dodge each one.
She's good.
He then sheathed his blade and prepared for magic spells. He sent his strongest basic thunder spell, Arcthunder, her way but she leaped into the air as the ball of electricity went right pass her. He then sent a couple of Thoron spells in her direction and she deflected them with her sword.
"HA! Is that the best you've got!" She laughed as she leaped into the air once again and prepared to crash down into him.
Damn it!
He pulled out his Levin Sword at the last minute and while he was able to deflect her attack, the strength of her strike knocked the Levin Sword out of his hand. She then lunged her sword at the grandmaster, preparing to stab him.
I have to stop her!
Before the woman's blade could pierce through him, Robin poured Katarina's Bolt into his hand and grabbed her blade before it could hit him. Due to the power of the electricity pouring through his hand, there were no cuts on his hand as he grabbed her sword. He took one look at his opponent who still had that scowl on her face.
"You're no ordinary mercenary." He remarked.
"Duh! And you're not so much of a loser as I thought."
"Hmm." He then took one good look at her before as he was too fighting her to get a good look at her features. "That hair color. Are you…?"
"Severa stop!" Holland, was was scared of getting caught in the fight yelled as the battle came to a stand still, wanting it to end.
"Severa?" As soon as he learned the name of the woman he had been fighting, he released his blade and took a few steps away from her. "Your Cordelia and Ricken's daughter."
"What! How do you know that?!" She demanded an explanation. "Who the hell are you?!"
"Well my name …"
"He's Robin, the Grandmaster of Ylisse, the Tactician of the Shepherds, the Hero of Southtown." Holland introduced him to Severa took a few steps toward the grandmaster to get a better look at his face.
"Oh gawds! It is you!" She screamed as she face palmed, realizing she had been fighting her mother's friend this whole time.
"It's good to finally meet another of you future warriors, although I wish we could've met under better circumstances." He chucked but the red head only pouted.
"You could've told me it was you from the start you moron!" She yelled. "You look so different, I didn't even know it was you!"
"You've met my future self?"
"Only once when I was a kid, if it really matters to you." She replied.
"Well either way it's good to meet you, I plan to help you and your friends create a better future for everyone." He smiled and held out his hand for a handshake but she simply scoffed and crossed her arms.
"What? You expect a friendly greeting after that little fiasco? Dream on!"
Robin was taken aback by her attitude but she was exactly as Lucina described her. Still, he wasn't going to let her words faze him.
"So tell me, what are you doing working for someone like Nelson?" He asked.
"Hmph! You interrogating me now?!"
"I'm asking a question. You said it yourself that you're no lackey of his which means like Holland, he's forcing you to work for him. What does he have on you? A keepsake from your future I presume?" Her reaction answered his question. "Let me guess: He has your mother's ring."
"Wha… how did you…"
"Your friends have their mother's rings with them as well and I noticed that you don't seem to be wearing a ring." He pointed out. "I'm on your side Severa, let me help."
"Why should I let you help me! You were planning on murdering Holland just now so why should I trust you?!" She asked.
"U-Umm. Actually Severa, he was going to make a deal with me before you showed up." Holland corrected her.
"W-What?" Her eye widened as she heard Holland's remark to her question for the grandmaster.
"I'm not going to kill Holland. I was trying to make a deal with him until you came and threatened me." He said which only seemed to have angered her.
"Well excuse me for being so stupid for thinking that you were hurting him, you jerk!" She yelled.
"That insult was uncalled for. I wasn't questioning your intelligence Severa. In fact, I would've done the exact same thing." He said which only confused her. "From your standpoint, it did look like I posed a threat to Holland's life and instead of just attacking me like a foolish idiot, you simply threatened me with your blade and attempted to assess the situation. It was a sound strategy, one I think you performed very well."
"Really?" She was shocked at hearing his words. First she thought this man was insinuating that she made a really stupid decision and here he was complimenting her. It made her blush a little as she wasn't use to praise. "Well thanks, I guess."
"However." He added. "I would advise to place your blade so close to your opponent as they could attempt to disarm you like I did."
"Whatever." She crossed her arms and looked away so the grandmaster couldn't see her smile she had at finally being praised by her mother's friend.
"Anyway…" Robin said, changing the subject, he turned to Holland. "Back to our deal, have you witnessed any of Nelson's activities?"
"Y-Yes sir, I've been with him longer than Severa. I know his plans and I know what he's capable of." He admitted.
"Alright then, it's settled." Robin then handed him a piece of paper. "Once I get the information I need from Nelson, I'm handing him over to the people of Sage's Hamlet. I would like you to write a statement as a witness to his actions."
"O-Okay." Holland took the piece of paper and began to write a statement.
"Really? You're going to turn him in? Why not just kill him?" Severa wondered.
"Because, Nelson's arrest will be the start of a new day for Sage's Hamlet." He said which only confused her. "I'll explain later, after we capture him. Can I count on you for support."
"If I have to, I guess I'll help you." She crossed her arms and looked away.
"Thanks." He said. She is exactly how Lucina described her. Other than her attitude, she does have a kindness to her but the grandmaster feared if he said that out loud, he'd never hear the end from her.
"H-Here you go, sir." Holland handed back his statement.
"Thank you, now let's see." The grandmaster took a gander at the statement Holland wrote. It was as he expected, petty theft hasn't been the worst of his crimes. He's also blackmailed and extorted several people in order to acquire the Mercenary Fortress.
So he didn't officially buy this place legally? Robin thought as he placed the statement in his coat pocket. Someone will have to take over, and I think I know of who should.
"Alright. Severa, Holland, let's go."
The two followed the grandmaster out of the library to head back to the main hall. Luckily whoever shut the door wasn't wise enough to lock it as they took their exit. Of course, Robin took note to come back here later as he still wanted to read some of those books.
As they entered the main hall, many of Robin's companions took notice of him walking out with a stranger and one of their friends. They all ran up to them ran up to them with Noire jumping Severa into a hug.
"Severa! I-I missed you." She began to cry
"Alright, I missed you too! Please stop crying Noire, damn." She demanded.
"Still hard headed as always, aren't you Sev?" Kjelle remarked.
"You too? Is everyone here." She asked.
"Only Lucina, Cynthia, Owain, and Inigo are absent from our group. Gerome however, has yet to be found." Laurent answered her.
"Where are they?"
"Back in the town square with their ma's and pa's. We followed the Boss to find you and the others?" Brady interjected.
"Uh, Boss?" She was wondering who she was referring to
"He means Robin." Nah corrected.
"What?!" Severa exclaimed. "You mean that jerk brought you all together?!" She said pointing to the grandmaster.
I'm going to be the mature one and choose to ignore that. Robin thought to himself, wondering why she would use the word "jerk" to describe him.
"Robin's not a jerk!" Yarne yelled. "He's helped all of us while the other Shepherds are off on vacation!"
"V-Vacation?!" She yelled.
"Yeah, the Shepherds came to this island for shore leave, right before they head off to Valm." Nah explained. "They first found Cynthia and Robin concluded that we were all here on this island as well. It's because of him that we're all here together."
"What!" She yelled again.
I swear, all this yelling is drawing unnecessary attention. He looked around and saw many visiting mercenaries staring in his direction.
"So…" She turned to the grandmaster, glaring with her hands on her hips. "You think you're some hotshot huh? Some hero trying to bring us Future Children together?"
"I think Future Warriors is more appropriate, you guys are adults not children." He corrected her but that only seem to agitate her even more.
"Don't make fun of me!" She yelled.
"Did I upset you? I apologize." He tried to calm her down but she got in his face which only made him very uncomfortable.
"The others may be impressed with you, but I'm not. Don't get so full of yourself Mr Tactician." She warned.
"I prefer Robin. No titles amongst comrades and friends." He stated. Once she got out of his face, Severa turned her back to him and crossed her arms.
"Hmph! Who said I wanted to be friends with you?!" She exclaimed.
"Well…" He so wanted this conversation to end and decided to end it now. "Do as you wish. I plan to get by, with or without your approval." He walked away from the group to go talk to Gyral.
Many of the others who heard the conversation were a little surprised as it seemed like Robin wasn't at all fazed by Severa's attitude and wondered why she was acting like this toward him.
"S-Severa. Why are you being so mean to him?" Noire wondered.
"Yeah, that was uncalled for Sev. He even apologized when he thought he offended you." Kjelle reminded her.
"Tch, whatever." She huffed. To be honest, deep down, she was impressed with him even though she wouldn't admit it. All those harsh words were just a test to see just how cool this man supposedly was. None of her words even remotely fazed him and he kept a straight face throughout the entire conversation. Judging from his answers and the tone of his voice, he was simply speaking with honesty, not smugly.
I'll apologize to him later. She reminded herself.
As Robin spoke to Gyral about the situation involving Severa and Holland, he handed the mercenary general the statement Holland wrote down.
"I knew Nelson was shady, but I had no idea he would go so far as to try and capture you Grandmaster." He said.
"Yeah, but I don't blame Holland for following orders. Besides…" He pointed to the man. "…his wife has a baby on the way."
"Gods." The mercenary looked at the man, feeling sorry for the situation he's been put in. "Then Nelson must be stopped."
"Right." He agreed.
"Stopped?! Hahahahaha! I don't believe that's necessary gentlemen!"
A voice broke their conversation. Robin, Gyral, the others, as well as the visiting mercenaries look towards the voice that yelled out to the grandmaster. A strange man in robes, normally one a typical Sage would wear, gained the grandmaster's attention. He had a thunder tome at his side and was carrying a walking stick. While many of the mercenaries took a few steps away from him, Robin separated himself from Gyral who seemed a little frightened by the man's appearance. The Sage's eyes never left the grandmaster's as he moved a little closer to him.
"Former General Nelson of the Valmese army I presume?" Robin asked even though it was clear that this man was him.
"You know who I am? I'm honored." He gave a small bow. "And you are Grandmaster Robin, your actions on this island do not go unnoticed."
"You don't sound so surprised that I'm here. Almost as if you knew I was coming." He wondered.
"But of course." He laughed. "Ever since you killed Dalton at Port Ferox, I knew you and your little merry band would visit this island. When I arrived and took this amazing fortress as my own, I had my associates go out and do various deeds to get your attention."
"Associates?" He wondered who he was referring too until a realization hit him. "No, you mean…?"
"Figured it out yet?" He smirked.
"The Chrom impersonator who had been attacking the town square, the slavers at Kidnappers Keep, and every bandit or criminal I've encountered since I've been here… all of them… worked for you?" The grandmaster took a few steps back as his eyes widened.
"Correct my boy!" Nelson laughed. "Rugar, Ezra, Cassius, Nombry, and those swiveling Riders of Dawn. All of them… under orders to cause havoc in Sage's Hamlet. Specifically… to bring you here."
"You!" Gyral yelled. "It was you who brought the Riders of Dawn here?!"
"Ah General Gyral of the Stonewall Knights!" The Sage greeted. "I almost forgot you were there. The answer is yes, I brought them here. However, their grudge against you and your company was not my doing, so I don't see what has you all riled up."
"Riled up?! That scumbag Dalen killed many of my comrades!" He screamed in anger, now realizing that Dalen was nothing more than a pawn and that this man was the ringleader.
"A small price to pay for the good that will come." He simply shrugged his complaint off.
"Wait a damn second!" The grandmaster turned to hear Kjelle yell in Nelson's direction. "So that monster Cassius worked for you?! You dastard! He murdered my master and left his wife a widow!"
"And? What does that have to do with me?" Nelson asked.
"You... You dastard!" Before she could move Robin held out his hand telling her to stop.
"Seems like you're more than just a petty thief. You're a criminal mastermind." He exclaimed which only made him laugh.
"Please you flatter me Grandmaster."
"I suggest you shut the hell up!" Robin yelled. "I have a statement given to me by a witness describing every single crime you've committed since you came to this island. Your time has come to an end Nelson!"
"A witness huh?" He then glared at Holland who was hiding behind Severa. "I see you were able to sway my dogs into joining you. Traitorous mutts!"
"Idiot!" Severa yelled. "I'm not a…"
"Don't you dare call Severa a dog!" The grandmaster pointed a finger in Nelson's direction which surprised Severa as she did not expect Robin to come to her defense. "The only reason she worked for you is because you took something valuable from her, something she holds dear. She protected Holland when she thought he was in danger even though she had every reason not to. Why? Because unlike you, she does not see other people as pawns or dogs. She has real strength, she has a heart!"
"What?" Severa had no idea that he could be so… inspiring. With Robin's words in mind she walked over and took her place at his side. "Plus, you have to be loyal to be considered a traitor you ugly loser."
"What? So I have to deal with you as well." He groaned.
"Here's what's going to happen Nelson." Robin explained. "You're going to give me detailed dossiers on your comrades in the Valmese Army. All of Walharts Lieutenants, Generals, his tactician, everything. Then I'm taking you back to the town square where you will answer to the people who you've wronged."
"You sound so sure of yourself." He laughed before he slammed his walking stick onto the ground, creating a barrier of dark magic, trapping Robin and Severa inside with Nelson.
"What the hell!" She yelled before pulling out her sword and slashed at the barrier with no success.
"Robin, Severa, we can't get through!" Nah said as she slammed her fists onto the barrier. The others seemed to be attacking it with their weapons but it was useless.
"Dark Magic that's emitted from a staff?" Severa took notice. "The only type of people who can do that are…"
"Grimleal." Robin finished her sentence. "You're Grimleal, Nelson?
"I'm surprised it took you this long to notice." She shook his head. "Lord Grima gives me power, and I use that power to my benefit."
"Hmph. I don't really care what power you use. You're a criminal and you will lose." He pulled out his weapons. "Ready Severa?"
"Just say when!" She pulled out her blade and prepared for battle.
"Come fools!" Nelson pulled out a thunder tome and casted a thoron bolt in his hand, holding it like a blade. "Show me what you got!"
Robin casted a few thoron bolts himself at Nelson but eh Sage managed to deflect them with ease. However, these were a distraction as Severa had leaped into the air at the same time and came crashing down onto Nelson. He was able to block her attack but it destroyed his thoron bolt. He casted another one intending to stab her with it but Robin came at the last possible minute and grabbed onto his thoron bolt. Because his hand was emitting electricity thanks to Katarina's bolt, it didn't affect him.
With the bolt in hand, Robin smashed it which surprised Nelson as to how he was able to smash a bolt of thunder. As he dashed backward, Severa took the opportunity to kick Nelson square in the face in which he fell back onto the had floor. As he reach for his tome which he dropped when he was kicked, Severa stomped on his hand, breaking his fingers.
"ARG!"
He clutched his hand in pain as Severa placed her foot on Nelson's chest, preventing him from moving. Robin then went over to his staff and snapped it in half, breaking the barrier which allowed the team to regroup with him.
"I'm taking this back!" Severa reached into his pocket and took back her mother's ring.
"Damn it!" Nelson spat in defeat. "Well go ahead, kill me."
"I already told you, I'm taking you in." Robin stated. "You're going to tell me what you know, do you understand me?"
"And if I don't?" He asked.
"Well the question is, do you want to deal with me… or her?" He pointed to Severa who looked ready to kill him at anytime. "Plus, it will look better for you if you cooperate."
"Hmph." Nelson laid back onto the ground in defeat. "Fine, I'll talk."
With that the visiting mercenaries cheered for Robin and Severa for their victory against Nelson, picking the duo and holding them up in the air as they celebrated their defeat.
"AH! What the hell!" Severa exclaimed.
Robin simply chucked and while he too was not overly fond of crowd surfing which he has had prior experience of, he laid back and smiled, for his mission was about to come to an end soon.
It took a while for Gyral to explain the situation to many of the visiting mercenaries who were a little confused by the fight that was going on with Robin, Severa, and Nelson. Once they explained Nelson's crimes and who the new owner of the Mercenary Fortress will be, many of them just shrugged and went back to their business but gave polite bows to Robin in respect for bringing justice.
Meanwhile, Robin who stood by Severa were talking with Holland about the deal he mentioned before.
"If it were anyone else, you'd be thrown in jail for being an accomplice." He reminded Holland who looked down in shame. "However, I'm willing to look away this time because of your cooperation, and with your statement, Nelson's criminal activity is as good as over." He explained which made him happy. "Also, don't forget that it was also Severa's appeals that helped as well."
"I know that parents will do anything for their children." Severa interjected. "But I also know how it feels when a child loses her parents. This world's got far too many kids who've gone through that, and your child deserves better than that."
"I… I understand. I deeply apologize for my actions and I appreciate the chance you've given me." He said, twiddling his fingers. "Of course, with Nelson out of the picture, I'm fresh out of a job."
"I wouldn't say that." Robin chuckled which confused him as well as his red haired companion. "I've talked with Gyral as well as the bartenders and guards who work here officially and, it seems like the Mercenary Fortress is in need of a new owner."
"What does that have to…" Holland took a few steps back before realizing where he was going with this. "….wait. You mean…?"
"That's right Holland." He smiled before holding out his hand. "It is within my right as Grandmaster of Ylisse to pronounce you the new owner of the Mercenary Fortress."
"Show off." Severa muttered.
"I… I… I don't know what to say!" Holland shook the grandmasters hand violently, crying tears of joy. "Thank you! Thank you so much!"
"Of course Holland. Just make sure you do right by your family and live a long and happy life. Make their futures full of hope." Robin told him.
"I promise!" He smiled and bowed.
"Talk with Gyral to get the details of your new job. We'll be staying the night to rest but we're heading out tomorrow."
"I understand! Thank you once again." Holland gave another bow before going to talk to Gyral.
"That was awfully nice of you." Severa said.
"I think he'll do a better job than Nelson at least." The grandmaster shrugged.
"Also, um… I want to apologize for snapping at you earlier. I didn't mean what I said." She forced out. Severa wasn't really one for apologies.
"It's alright. I wasn't really bothered by it." The grandmaster gave her a soft smile but she looked away.
"Hmph! Quit acting so cool!" She huffed before crossing her arms again. "But, I suppose I see why my friends follow you so, I'll follow you if that's alright."
"Sounds good to me. Welcome to the team Sev." He smiled.
"Wha!" She was taken aback but the nickname. "What did you call me?!"
"What's wrong? Kjelle called you that earlier. I thought it was cute."
"C-Cute?!" She blushed and got into his face, glaring daggers into his eyes. "Are you making fun of me again?"
"Did I offend you? I guess I'll just call you Severa."
"Damn right you will!" She backed away, crossing her arms. "Only my friends call me Sev."
"I see." The grandmaster seemed hurt but kept a straight face. "So you really have no wish to be friends then?"
"Well…" She then thought of the prospect of being friends with her mother's closest friend as she turned around and grinned at him as a thought came into her mind. "If you want to be my friend that bad, you have to take me shopping."
"Shopping?" Robin thought about it and decided that there was no harm in it. "Very well, once we get back to town, we'll go shopping."
"Really?! Thanks!" Severa gave the first genuine smile he'd ever seen from her. "Also… could we talk later, in the morning?"
"As you wish." He said as the team regrouped to talk about their next mission.
"Hey guys." Nah greeted the two. "The Stonewall Knights locked Nelson up in the wine cellar. They'll monitor him so he doesn't cause any trouble."
"Sounds good." Robin smiled as he'll have a few words with the Sage in the morning.
"Only one more destination before our journey comes to an end." Laurent brought up.
"Man, feels like yesterday that we started this crazy adventure, damn shame to see it end." Brady added.
"A-Apart from all the fighting and killing, I had a lot of fun." Noire smiled.
"Gee guys, you're gonna make me cry a little." Yarne said as tears started to break through.
"Cmon, you guys cheer up!" Kjelle demanded. "We should be proud of ourselves for coming so far."
"Indeed." Robin interjected. "Make no mistake, what we have faced so far is only a trial compared to what we may face in Valm. But, seeing with how well you guys work together, how you trust each other, I have no doubt that we'll be able to face anything the world throws at us."
"And it's thanks to you Boss." The war monk smiled.
"That's right, we wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. We owe you our lives." Nah smiled.
"Guys." Robin smiled as they all believed that it was he who brought them this far. He was very thankful for their praise and trust. "Everyone, bring your hands together." He put his hand in the middle and each joining their hands together but saw that Severa didn't join in. "Cmon, you're part of this too."
"Fine, whatever." She rolled her eyes before happily joining in.
"I want you to remember that no matter what anyone says in the future, we brought down a criminal mastermind and made Sage's Hamlet a better place for the citizens who live here. I know that I would say that what I do isn't really heroic as I believe any good natured person would do the same. But what we're doing here… bringing hope to this island… that makes each and everyone of you heroes." He said as each of them smiled. "Tomorrow we head to Wyvern Valley and finish our mission once and for all. This could not have been possible without you guys. So… who's with me?!"
"WE ARE!"
They each threw their hands up in a cheer as they celebrated Nelson's defeat. Only one more of the future warriors left. Gerome, son of Cherche and Gregor. Once he's been found, the warriors of the doomed future will finally be reunited, fighting for a future of hope.
As Nelson laid on the bed provided for him by the Stonewall Knights while he was imprisoned in the wine cellar, he thought over how his defeat was not exactly what he had planned, but felt like it was a plan that could be adjusted.
So, the grandmaster just wants what I know about Walharts Army huh? He thought to himself. I'll tell him what I know, but it won't do him any good. I'll make sure won't leave this island alive. He chuckled before the Stonewall Knight watching him slammed his blade onto the ground to shut him up.
"Quiet trash!" He demanded.
Nelson simply laid his head back as he thought over his new course of action.
The Fire Emblem will be mine! Those idiots have no idea what I have in store for them!
Nelson. That guy really gives me the creeps.
If you don't know, Nelson is the main boss in Severa's paralogue and the Mercenary Fortress is the settings. It's never stated in game that Nelson is part of the Grimleal but when I looked him up on the wiki, it said he was Grimleal so I'm just going with it.
This was not easy to write but I'm glad with what came out. Only a few more chapters before we get to Valm.
Til next time.