Okay, this is getting ridiculous.

I said in my last chapter that chapter 28 was probably the longest chapter I've ever written, well this chapter is over 18,000 words. Hot damn!

Now, we move onto the Valm arc. I have a bunch in store for Valm and I hope you will conitnue to support, review, follow, and favorite. Speaking of which, the Tactician magician has reached 104 favorites, 141 followers, and 54,676 views. I can't believe the numbers! That is incredible. Thank you all so much for your continued support.

Also, quick question. Is anyone annoyed by these long chapters? If so, let me know.

Shoutout goes to ArcanaHermit for his collection of one-shots titled Precious Moments.

I've been getting PM's and reviews about the constant grammar mistakes I've made in past chapters so I will be going back and fixing them. I've already edited one chapter already which is chapter 9: A Promise.

Without further ado, enjoy the 29th chapter


A week had past since the Sovereign had departed Sage's Hamlet and are on the way to Valm. Thankfully, many of the Shepherds came out with few injuries after their fight with the Revenants that were quickly treated upon boarding the ship. Chrom decided to brush up on his skills to pass the time while his wife was reading with the book club she started. A few of the male future children were training but some of the female future children were in a circle talking amongst themselves. Likely girl talk so the prince decided to continue training as Frederick's hand to hand training would start in a few hours. However, due to his position, this training was optional to him but he would attend anyway if only to monitor those and check on their progress.

Another individual whose position that would be exempt from Frederick's hand to hand training would be the none other than the Grandmaster of Ylisse who had his own training regimen and did not participate in any of Frederick's exercises unless he wanted to.

He and Chrom have sparred several times before and both have shared their wins and loses. It was no secret to any of the Shepherds that both Chrom and Robin were the strongest of the group and every time they fought, it was always a show to everyone.

Robin always welcomed any challenge from any Shepherd. He didn't spar because he wanted to prove he was superior or anything, he just wanted to see how skilled everyone is in their specific class.

But right now, he was busy reading a book to pass the time. Chrom was close to him as the table that the grandmaster was sitting at was close to the training dummy that the Prince was bashing in. He had already torn the arms off, but it appeared he wasn't done.

"HA!" Chrom went in for a clean decapitation and sliced it's head right off. He looked toward his friend who was still reading, not even fazed by the noise he was making from his training. "Is there anything else you do besides bury your nose in books all day?"

"Is there anything else you do besides destroy training dummies like a deranged psychopath?" Robin retorted, his eyes not leaving his book.

"Oh, Har Har. You know, your smart mouth doesn't do you justice." The Prince rolled his eyes at his friend's comment. "You feeling alright? That fight with Nelson a week ago was pretty tough, I know I'm still a little sore."

"I'm alright." He said, appreciating his friends concern. "Frederick's hand to hand training starts in a few hours. You attending?"

"Might as well. Need to see if our Shepherds are as good with hand to hand as they're with their weapons. What about you?" The Prince asked.

"Maybe. I might want to see the Future Warriors skill in hand to hand." He continued, turning his attention back to his book.

"Be careful, they may challenge you if you do attend." The Prince chuckled as he believed the Future Children would want to spar with the Grandmaster.

"I'll be prepared." He said as he turned a page.

The Prince left to check on other matters. While Robin continued to read, The female future warriors were in a circle talking amongst themselves. It was Severa's idea as a way of passing the time, and the others decided since they had nothing better to do, they went along with it.

"Alright Kjelle, Truth or Dare?" Nah asked.

"Truth, I guess." Kjelle shrugged, figured she'd humor the idea of playing this game.

"Okay, is it true that you polish your armor every possible chance you get?" The manakete asked.

"Absolutely, the armor needs to be just as refined as the person who wears it." The knight smiled, proud of how she treats her armor.

"LAME!" Severa scoffed at all the answers she had heard lately. "These questions are so boring. It's always truth! Take a chance in life and go for dare!"

"Calm down, it's just a game." Lucina demanded.

"Well, I guess it's my turn." Severa said proudly thinking of what to say. While she was thinking, she caught notice of Robin reading a book and grinned, already deciding on what she would ask, should someone pick dare. "Noire, Truth or Dare?"

"U-Um, I think I'll try dare." Noire said with confidence, although she hoped it wouldn't be anything serious.

"YES!" Severa cheered, grinning evil as she had hoped that's what she would pick. "I dare you to go over to Robin and tell him you think he's incredibly handsome!"

"Wh-What?!" Noire's face went completely red at what her friend had just asked her to do. There was no way she could ever do that without dying of embarrassment, not to mention they were out on the deck and that some of her friends were training right now, which meant they had the possibility of listening in.

"Severa!" Lucina yelled, appalled but what she was trying to get the Archer to do. "How could you ask her to do something like that?"

"I'm just asking her to give him a compliment. It's not like I'm asking her to jump him or something." Severa shrugged, not really seeing what the problem was.

"I-I don't know." Noire twiddled her fingers, still unsure about this.

"Hey Noire, you don't have to if you don't want to." Cynthia smiled, trying to assure her that she's not being forced. "I mean, I'll happily take your place."

"No, you won't!" Lucina exclaimed.

"Oh, that's right, if anyone should do it, it should be you Lucy. You're his partner after all." The younger princess teased her sister.

"What?!" Now it was Lucina's turn to blush but just as she was about to open her mouth for a retort, Noire stood up, clenching her fists with confidence.

"I-I can do it!" She said, as she began walking toward the Grandmaster.

"You go girl!" Nah cheered.

Noire walked towards Robin, ready to fulfill the dare. It was a little scary as she had no idea just what his reaction would be. It's not like she had a habit of going up to every guy she met and told them they were handsome. This was completely nerve wracking as she began to sweat. Once she made it over to Robin, it appeared that he hadn't noticed her as his eyes were still locked onto the book he was reading.

"Um, Robin?"

The words broke his concentration from the book as he looked up to see the Archer standing in front of him. From his point of view, she seemed incredibly nervous about something. He simply gave her a warm smile and spoke.

"Hello Noire, can I help you?" He asked.

"Um, not really. I just wanted to tell you something." She said.

"Oh? What is it?" He asked, curiously.

"I-I wanted t-to tell y-you that I-I…" She turned around to see her friends were listening in. It was too late to turn back now as she looked at the grandmaster. "I think you look really incredibly handsome."

She finally let out. The grandmaster raised an eyebrow at the unusual compliment. He didn't know what to make of it as it wasn't really what he expected to come out of her mouth. But his smile never wavered which put her at ease.

"Well, that compliment came out of nowhere." He chuckled. "But, thank you Noire. That was really sweet of you."

"I-It's just, you did so much for me and my friends. I t-thought the least you deserve is to be appreciated." Noire explained, trying to come up with a reason as to why she would say something like that. It was truthful, and it felt like it would best get her out of this situation.

"Well, thank you Noire. That really made my day." He gave a soft smile before getting back to his book.

She gave polite nod before heading back to her group of friends. She sat down and let out a sigh of relief.

"That was so embarrassing." Noire buried her face into her hands.

"I have to say, I'm impressed. I didn't think you could do it." Kjelle simply laughed at how confident the archer was.

"Alright, my turn!" Cynthia cheered but as she was about to say ask a question, Severa whispered something into her ear. She laughed along with the redhead which put everybody on edge as to what they were planning. "Okay… Nah!" She picked the manakete. "Truth or Dare?"

"Dare." She replied.

"Okay, I dare you to go sit on Robin's lap." The younger princess said causing everyone to look at her like she was insane while Severa just laughed.

"Why are we bringing Robin into this?" Lucina asked as she saw her partner was reading and didn't want to disturb him. "He's not bothering anyone, just leave him alone."

"Sit on his lap?" Nah simply shrugged and got up. "Okay, I'll do it."

"What?!" Lucina was taken aback by the manakete's not even remotely fazed by the dare.

"Look at little miss Nah. Not even a hint of hesitation." Kjelle chuckled.

"Watch and learn ladies." Nah grinned as she made her way over to the Grandmaster whose eyes were locked in his book.

He continued reading the story of the Superb Mind Mark, hoping that maybe he could learn from his strategies in preparation of the upcoming war with Valm. In a way, Mark reminded him of himself. It was said that Mark had a dark past that he had no memories of, which is not specified in this book. Whatever it was, Mark still continued to fight alongside his friends which cemented himself as a legendary hero.

He could stand to learn from his example but as he was about to turn the page, he felt a sudden weight form onto his legs. If there was anything Robin liked, it was surprises. A nice surprise and things that were unpredictable always made things more interesting to him. But this kind of surprise was not something he expected as he looked up and saw that Nah had seated herself onto his lap with a smile that let him know that she had no regrets in what she was doing.

"Nah?" He asked softly, trying to understand the ridiculousness of the situation. "What is this?"

"What is what?" She asked innocently as if she didn't know what she was doing.

"Look Nah, I understand that we're friends now and I've already said I don't mind hugs. But, this…" He pointed to what she was doing. "…this is crossing a line."

"You have to be more specific Robin." She continued to play him like a rank amateur which only seemed to irritate him more.

"Quit playing dumb, Nah. I'm talking about how you thought my lap would be a nice substitute for a chair." He exclaimed.

"Well, as your bodyguard, I feel like I could protect you more efficiently if we're close together." She came up with an excuse.

"This… is way to close for comfort." He stated in which she decided enough was enough and hopped off of him.

"Hehe, you're easy to tease you know that?" She laughed, clearly having fun."

"Be lucky we're friends Nah, or I would've taken you off with a wind spell." He warned, under the assumption that she was just playing with him and decided to get back to his book.

"Alright, alright, I'm sorry." She gave an apology but didn't mean it in the slightest before heading back to her group of friends, all of which looked at her in shock.

"I did not see that coming." Cynthia commented as she was not expecting the manakete to be so bold.

"Hey, you only live once right?" Nah smiled before sitting down. "My turn." She was about to ask a question before Severa tried to whisper into her ear. However, she was stopped by Lucina before she could do anything.

"Severa, I know what you're doing. Stop involving Robin in this." Lucina warned her.

"You're no fun." She pouted.

"Okay… Cynthia!" Nah chose the younger princess. "Truth or Dare?'

"Heroes go all out! Hit me with a dare!" She exclaimed.

"Okay." The manakete decided why the hell not and went with what Severa had told her. "I dare you to go up to Robin and start a conversation with 'Hey Sexy'"

"Again with Robin!" Lucina complained once again but gave up. "I swear, you guys are children."

"Cmon Lucy, it's as Nah said, you only live once." Cynthia said as she got up and walked over to Robin.

"You're going to pay for this, Severa." Lucina warned in which the redhead simply stuck her tongue out.

The younger princess walked over to where Robin was and readied herself. In truth, she had wanted to speak with him about a certain matter and while this dare was a less moral way of doing so, it could be seen as a great conversation opener.

"Hey sexy." Cynthia called out which fought Robin's attention who looked at her with confusion. He looked around to see if she was talking to anyone else but when he saw her eyes on his, he sighed, knowing she was referring to him.

"Was that directed at me, Cynthia?" The grandmaster asked anyway.

"Who else would I be talking to?" She giggled which caused him to shake his head and return to his book.

"So, what do you need?" He asked, ignoring her conversation opener.

"I need a favor and you're the only person who can do it." She insisted. "Will you hear me out?"

"Alright, what can I do for you?" He said as he looked at her, wondering what she could want from him.

"I wanted to know if you could teach me magic?" She said which caught his attention.

"Whatever for?" He wondered.

"So I can be just as strong as Lucy and Father. I want to be a Dark Flier!" She exclaimed.

"I appreciate you wanting to learn magic, but, why come to me? Ricken or Miriel would be more a more suitable teacher than me." He claimed.

"No, I want it to be you. You're like the strongest magic user in the Shepherds, I want to learn from you and only you!" She continued to insist and batted her eyelashes to win him over. "Pretty please?"

"*Sigh*" He let out a sigh as he thought it would be a good idea for her to learn. "Fine, I'll train you."

"Yay! Thanks Robin." She gave him a quick hug of appreciation.

"But first, I need to know if you have an aptitude for magic. Acquire yourself a Fire Tome. If you can't cast a simple Fire spell, I can't help you. Okay?" He asked.

"Yes sir!" She gave a salute before heading back to her friends.

As she sat down with her friends, Lucina forbade them from bringing Robin into their games, much to the disappointment of Severa who was having a lot of fun watching her friends go up to Robin and say embarrassing things. Even if she wanted to, the grandmaster had gotten up from his table and head in the direction of the cabins, so he was out of sight.

Little did they know that some of the men were watching the whole thing. The male Future Children, who knew about their little Truth or Dare game watched as they turned their dares onto Robin.

"Are you guys seeing this?" Inigo said in shock.

"I'm seeing it, I just don't wish to believe it." Owain simply stated before getting back to training.

"Oh dear, someone save our friends from this frivolous nonsense." Laurent grimaced.

"Man, Robin is a popular guy." Yarne commented

"And that's why he's the boss." Brady stated.

"Hmph." Gerome had looked on with disgust before getting back to training.


Cherche was getting dressed in her room, preparing herself for hand to hand drills were about to begin. However, as she readied herself, she found herself conflicted. ever since she had met her future son Gerome, she didn't know how to deal with him. He made it perfectly clear he wanted nothing to do with her or Gregor, but she felt like he wasn't being truthful to her. What could she do?

"Cherche? Are you in?"

A voice interrupted her thought. She recognized it as the Grandmaster himself. She went over to the door and opened it to see him with a pile of paperwork in his hand.

"Robin? What's all this?" She asked, wondering why he was carrying a tower of paperwork.

"These, are candidates for Minerva's mate." He went over and placed it all on her desk. "I've had my flier Einherjars fly from Ylisse to Plegia, back to Sage's Hamlet to find suitable matches for her."

"Wha?" She was shocked at how much paperwork there was. She had no idea he put so much work into finder her Wyvern a suitable match. "When did you do this?"

"When I got back from saving all the Future Warriors, I put my Einherjar to work. I told you I would do it, didn't I?" He raised an eyebrow as he wasn't expecting her to be so surprised.

"But this, this is too much." She said.

"It's alright. Minerva is my friend too, remember?" He simply gave her a soft smile.

"You have my gratitude, Robin." She thanked him. When he gave a polite nod and turned to leave, a thought came into her mind. Maybe the grandmaster could help her. "Wait. There's something I need to ask you."

"Hm?" He had reach her door but when he was about to turn the handle and leave, she asked him to wait.

"I have to ask, how do you feel about Gerome?" She asked, wondering what his opinion was on her future son.

"Gerome?" When she brought up the topic of the Wyvern Rider, he came to the conclusion that Gerome kept true to his word and have tried to stay away from his parents. It seems Cherche has noticed, so he gave his thoughts on the boy. "He's got an attitude, that's for certain. He's a great fighter and I can tell he cares for his Minerva like you do yours. But…"

"But?" She said, as it looked like he wasn't finished.

"He has stated that he doesn't wish to interact with anyone here, particularly, you and Gregor." He said which seemed to upset her.

"I know. He told me himself." Cherche shook her head. "But that's not all, is it?"

"Yes, he… well… he has made his dislike of me very clear." He had hoped he wouldn't have to talk about this but thought his she should know.

"What?" She was surprised to hear this.

"I don't know why, but every time he talks to me, I feel a certain venom in his words." He admitted. "And despite that, I don't wish to be his enemy. I care about him and want to be his friend."

"I see." She let out a sigh of relief. She had no idea that Gerome personally disliked him but it appeared that Robin did not return the same feelings. It's one of these traits that make him so admirable. "Then, could I ask for some advice?"

"If it's in my power, sure." He nodded.

"I wish to get to know him better, but every time I talk to him, he pushes me away. What should I do?" She asked. Despite the fact that he had no future child of his own, she felt like he knew of what to do.

"Well, why not ask him to train with you? You're both Wyvern Riders, if you tell him that you wish to combine your skills with his, he would have no choice but to accept." He gave the best advice he could think of.

"That's… not a bad idea at all. Thank you." She gave a soft smile before continuing. "On another matter, I don't think he's being entirely truthful with us."

"What do you mean?" He asked.

"Gerome is hiding something. I can tell. When he says he wants nothing to do with me, I think he's trying to convince himself that rather than tell me off. He's… he's scared." She looked down, feeling powerless for not being able to do something for her son.

"Scared, huh?" Robin wondered. If that was the case, it would make sense as to why he is always so distant. "You think that's why he wears that mask?"

"That's exactly why he wears it." She replied. "He's trying to hide how much pain he's feeling. Feeling like he can't connect with me and his father. It's hurting him." She told him in which he nodded in agreement.

"I thought so." He said.

"Robin, I ask you this, not as your friend, but as his mother, please don't give up on him." She said, trusting him to look after Gerome. "I believe out of all of the Shepherds, you may be the only one who can help him."

He knew this would come up at some point. It was clear that Gerome seriously needs an attitude check and while he has annoyed Robin with his views on how fighting against fate is pointless and how he has no wish to connect with anyone, he still wishes to help him and change his perspective for the better.

"The Future Warriors are my responsibility Cherche, that includes Gerome too. I swear, I'll do my best to help him." He vowed, not because it was his responsibility, but also because he wants to.

"Thank you." She gave a polite bow as the two left her room.

Robin's ideals conflicted with Gerome's ideals. Where the grandmaster aspires to fight against fate, The Wyvern Rider thinks it's pointless. Where the former thinks bonds make oneself stronger, the latter does everything he can to stay away from people. It was clear that Gerome will be difficult to deal with, but it didn't matter to him. He made it his promise to help Cherche's son see the world differently.


"Shepherds! Gather round!" Frederick commanded in which all Shepherds turned their attention to the Great Knight. "Today, we start hand to hand combat drills! Pick a partner and begin!"

Everyone nodded and picked a partner. Vaike immediately picked Chrom which prevented him from choosing Robin as a partner, wanting to see if he could add another win in his matches with the tactician. Cynthia chose her sister, hoping to see if she could best her. Following the Grandmaster's advice, Cherche made Gerome her partner, much to his annoyance.

Robin watched as the Future Warriors partnered up and prepared to fight. He then decided to continue reading where he left off, as he wasn't required be involved in any of these drills.

Before he could even read, a hand slammed onto his table. He glanced up to see just who it was only to see Severa with a grin on her face. It was quite clear to him what she wanted.

"You and me, Robin. Let's go!" She demanded, not giving him a choice.

"*Sigh*" He closed his book and placed it on the table. "Very well."

He got up and walked with Severa over to where everyone was sparring. While they fought, they all took notice of the tactician who was facing Cordelia's daughter, ready to fight her. Her parents also took notice and decided to watch.

"Don't go easy on me, I sure as hell won't." She warned.

"Hmph, fine by me." He said as he got into a stance, ready for a fight.

She made the first move, leaping into the air with a few kicks as her first attack. He blocked each of her kicks and once she hit the ground she threw a few punches. He dodged and blocked each and every one of them. It was his turn to go on the offensive and tried a few punches himself. Luckily for her, she was fast enough that she blocked and dodged each of his attacks. He then backed up and attempted to knock her out with a rolling wheel kick but she leaped backward, dodging his attack.

They kept at it, drawing the attention of other Shepherds as it appeared that the grandmaster was having trouble holding his own against the redhead.

They continued their fight until Severa elbowed him in the stomach and then turned around to roundhouse kick him straight in the face. He clenched his cheek in pain, shrugging it off and prepared to get back into it. She went for another punch only for him to swiftly dodge her attack and elbow her in that back. She was pushed by the force, but she didn't hit the ground.

"Call it a draw?" He asked.

"Not until your face hits the ground!" She said rushing at him.

She tried a few more punches which he blocked. He then decided enough was enough. When she threw her last punch, Robin grabbed her by the wrist. He then kicked her legs causing her to fall to the ground and brought her arm on her back. He placed his knee onto her legs, trapping her.

Once she tapped out, Robin let go of her. She stood up and stared at him who simply gave her a soft smile.

"You're good Severa." He said, catching his breath. "If I held back, I would've…"

The last remaining words of that sentence was cut off when she smacked him right across the face. The slap simply moved his head sightly to the right as it wasn't strong enough to push him back. Everyone gasped at what had happened as no one had any idea what warranted a slap to the face.

"Jerk." She called him.

Robin had frowned at what just happened as he rubbed his cheek in pain. Cordelia saw what had happened and became worried until the grandmaster held up a hand to let her know everything was okay. Once she had realized what she had done, she looked down in embarrassment.

"Severa?" He asked.

"S-Sorry. I got carried away. I just… don't like losing." She said even though it was a poor excuse for hitting him just now.

"It's alright. I guess we have that in common." He chuckled as losing was also something he didn't like.

"I still don't get you." She admitted. "How come you don't get mad at me or ignore me like the others do?"

"Huh? People do that to you?" He asked, wondering why anyone would do that to her.

"Not always. But whenever I contradict someone or start to get angry, they usually stop listening." She explained. "I think some people think I'm difficult. Wouldn't you get angry at me, or hate me?"

"No Severa, I could never hate you. I'm… incapable of hating anyone except… her." He spat at the object of his hatred which confused the redhead as she had no idea who he was talking about.

"Her?" She wondered who he was talking about.

"It's nothing." He thought it would be best not to tell her. "What I mean is, I'd be a terrible friend if I ignored you simply because you got angry. If you have something on your mind, speak up. I want you to voice your opinions, not bury them."

"Wow." She was taken aback by his kindness and how he was interested in whatever he had to say. "Thank you."

"Are you two done?" Their conversation was interrupted by none other than the Wyvern Rider.

"Hello Gerome." The grandmaster greeted but the Wyvern Rider simply gave him a look before turning to the redhead.

"Severa, Lucina has called for a meeting. Let's go." He ordered.

"Fine." She complained as she went with him. "Talk to you later, Robin!"

He simply waved the two goodbye, wondering why Lucina would call for a meeting. He knew it was only for the Future Warriors but it made him curious.

"Hey Robin." He heard Chrom call for him which caused him to sigh as he turned around. "Let's go a few rounds."

"It has been a while since we sparred, hasn't it?" He asked.

"Our history is 35 wins and 34 losses. Let's see if you can add another win to your record." Chrom smirked, ready to take him down.

"Really, Chrom? Really?" Robin face palmed. "You're actually counting wins? You know, I expected this kind of childishness from Vaike, but not from you."

"I heard that!" The fighter yelled.

"But, you know what? I think I might actually try and take this seriously for once." He popped his knuckles, ready to fight.

"Alright, I wonder just how good you are without your precious tome." Chrom stretched his arms.

"Don't think the Book of Naga is the only thing I have at my disposal. Besides, I know all your moves." He pointed out.

"Even if you do, will you be able to handle my strength?" The Prince smirked as he got into a battle stance.

"Hmph, tough talk for a loser." The grandmaster joked as he readied himself to fight. "Alright Chrom, let's dance!"


Lucina had gathered her friends for a secret council meeting. They met in meeting room that the War Council uses to talk strategy. Now that they were all together, it was time for them to talk about the events pertaining to the actions that led to the creation of their future.

"Okay, everyone, this meeting is now in session." Lucina stated. "We first need to discuss the Valmese war."

"What's there to discuss? We already know the Shepherds win in the end." Inigo said.

"Even so, there are some things we need to discuss." The future princess insisted.

"You're talking about Khan Basilio's fate, right?" Kjelle wondered.

"Yes." She nodded.

"Well, as the story goes, the mighty Khan falls to the Conquerer of Ruin, Walhart!" Owain said dramatically. "We should be careful and watch his actions carefully!"

"True, maybe if we told him now, he'll stay away from the fighting." Nah brought up an idea.

"You do realize that this is Basilio, West Khan of Ferox, that we're talking about?" Severa exclaimed. "Not fighting is basically cowardice in their language."

"T-True." Noire nodded. "If anything, w-we should just keep him away from Walhart."

"That and more." The Wyvern Rider said, about to change the subject. "There's also the Voice."

"Naga's daughter? Why is she important?" Brady wondered.

"No, Gerome's right." Laurent said. "If we acquire the Voice's assistance, it could turn the tides in this war."

"Yeah, no one in Valm would attack the Voice, Walhart or not." Yarne chipped in.

"It's good to see we're all on the same page." Lucina nodded at her friends initiative.

"I beg to differ." Gerome brought up. "It has come to my attention that after all this time, we're forgetting about the one person who caused Grima's resurrection and brought our world to ruin."

"You're referring to the rumored traitor?" Laurent brought up which caused the Wyvern Rider to nod in agreement.

"Meh, I don't believe it." Brady said. "I bet it was all just a tall tale to scare us."

"Exactly, for all we know, the Remnants of the Grimleal spread that around just to confuse us." Inigo brought up the possibility.

"Even so, it was all we had to go on." Lucina said, taking the rumor very seriously. "I did an investigation of my own but found nothing suspicious among the Shepherds."

"I can't believe you're all so blind." Gerome rolled his eyes, wondering why none of his friends have come to the same conclusion.

"What are you trying to say?" Cynthia wondered where he was going with this.

"I'm telling you that the traitor is right in front of us and you're all too blind to see it." He said which caught Nah's attention as to who he was referring to.

"Gerome, are you saying…" The manakete tried to say something but was interrupted.

"It was said that Prince Chrom was betrayed by his closest friend." He stood up and placed his hands on the table. "It's that damned smart mouth tactician, I know it is!"

When he made his accusation, everyone turned to him in shock. He was accusing Robin, of being the traitor that supposedly killed Chrom and caused their world to be plummeted into darkness. Needless to say, none of them liked it one bit.

"I will admit, I was suspicious of him too." The Sage admitted with regret. "But, after getting to know him, I don't believe Robin is capable of betrayal. His actions prove his innocence."

"What is that suppose to mean?" The Wyvern Rider asked, he thought Laurent, of all people, would agree with him and it surprised him when that wasn't the case.

"It means, if he were to be the traitor, don't you think he would've killed us back on that island instead of saving us?" Kjelle brought up.

"Of course, he tricks us into thinking he's on our side, and then he uses that to his advantage. A smart tactic for a tactician." The Wyvern Rider spat.

"Preposterous! The Grandmaster of Fate would never stoop to betrayal. He shares the same dream as the rest of us!" Owain exclaimed.

"That's right!" Cynthia agreed with him.

"A-And Robin hates crime." Noire chipped in, defending her friend. "There's no way a man like that would stoop to treason."

"He's fooled all of you. You underestimate how far this man is willing to go to wrap us around his little finger." He then turned his attention to the princess. "Lucina, I would have expected you, of all people, to understand."

"Gerome, I…" She felt ashamed to admit it, especially after all Robin had done for her. But she had to, if only to get her friend to let go of his suspicions. "I did suspect Robin, once. When I arrived in the past, he was my first suspect. But, after observing his actions, there's no way he would hurt my Father."

She then remembered a prior conversation she had with the grandmaster. How sick he felt when she told him about the rumored traitor and how he even suspected himself, almost on the verge of throwing up. He remembered how he had asked her, without saying it, to kill him in the event that he were to be a legitimate threat to Chrom. Someone like that… is not a traitor.

"He's does everything he can to help the shepherds, and has made me feel so welcomed here. He's not a traitor."

"He's gotten to you too? Have all of you forgotten our mission?" He exclaimed. "We don't belong here! None of us do! Once this is over, we must return to our future, where we belong. We're not suppose to make friends in this… world!"

"That's… impossible." Lucina muttered. She had forgotten to tell him.

"What? What are you talking about?" He asked, surprised by what she had said.

"Robin said that during his travels into the Outrealm gate, he had asked the Anna that manages the gate if there was a world like ours there. According to her, no such world exists." Nah explained it to him.

"What?" The Wyvern Rider muttered in shock before he clicked his tongue and remembered a conversation he had with the grandmaster back on Sage's Hamlet. This must've been what he was talking about. "Damn it. So Naga was right?"

"Yes." Severa stood up, frowning at the Wyvern Rider. "So how about you cut the crap Gerome. You don't hate Robin because you think he's a traitor, you're just mad at him because he called you out on your bullcrap at Wyvern Valley."

He slammed his hands onto the desk in anger at what she said, startling everyone.

"That is not why!" He yelled, as Severa's words brought back memories of what the grandmaster had said to him at Wyvern Valley.

I won't dismiss the importance of your mission, even if you're the very one disregarding it.

"That fool doesn't know anything! About me or any of us! He doesn't know what we had to go through just to survive!" He was practically screaming in anger, letting them know just how much he hated the tactician.

"Calm down, Gerome." Inigo said, trying to get the Wyvern Rider to stop yelling.

"What is your problem?" Nah wondered, not liking the conversation one bit. "Robin nearly risked his life for us, and for you. How can you dislike him so much?"

"It's as I said, mere trickery." The Wyvern Rider stated again.

"So what do you propose we do Gerome?" Lucina asked, trying to defuse the situation.

"Simple. We avoid all contact with him at all costs. If he talks to us, we ignore him. We remember what's at stake so none of us leaves room for hesitation. So, when the time is right…"

"No…" Nah muttered knowing exactly what he was going to say and if he were to say it, she feared she would lose it.

"Gerome…" Lucina was fearing the same. If there was one thing she didn't want to do, it was hit one of her friends and his constant insistence that Robin is her Father's future killer was making her a little angry, but did her best not to show it.

"We finally save the world…" Gerome looked at them with determination in his eyes but it made everyone feel sick for what he was about to say." …We kill him!"

A lot of things happened at once. Lucina stared at her friend with anger for what he had just insisted but it wasn't even close to how angry Nah had gotten. The manakete immediately got up from her chair, leaped over the table, and punched Gerome square in the face, knocking his mask off, and pushing him back a little. Severa and Kjelle grabbed both of her arms, trying to keep her from hitting him again.

"Are you insane!" The manakete screamed as she tried to escape her friends grasp so she could hit him again.

"What the hell." Gerome clutched his face from the punch that was just delivered.

"Back off! Robin saved all of our lives, he's a hero! Do you hear me?! A hero!" Nah yelled as tears fell from her eyes. "What gives you the right… to talk about him like that?"

"Nah, take a breather, okay?" Kjelle asked, hoping a little fresh air would calm her down.

"Tch." She clicked her tongue before pushing her and Severa off of her before leaving the room, slamming the door on her way out.

"He's already gotten to her." Gerome said as he picked up his mask.

"Just shut up already." Severa demanded. "Be lucky she threw the first punch. Because…" She clenched her fist, showing anger at the Wyvern Rider. While she didn't want to admit it, hearing him suggest murder nearly set Severa over the edge, especially after all the kindness the grandmaster had shown her. "I would've done far worse to your face for what you said about Robin."

"Not you too…"

"It's not just her." Kjelle admitted, glaring at her friend. "I refuse to let you say such horrible things about him."

"I expected more from you, Gerome." Laurent said, trying to stay calm. "Murder is crossing a line, and I won't allow it."

"Yeah!" Brady exclaimed. "If you think you're going to off the boss, you got another thing coming!"

"I second that!" Yarne said.

"Why…" The Wyvern Rider couldn't take it. He couldn't understand why everyone was against him. "How can you all trust him so easily?"

"B-Because he's a good person. If only you talked to him, you would know." Noire said.

"You should give him a chance instead of being so quick to judge." Cynthia reprimanded him.

"This meeting has already made me sick." Inigo frowned as he got up from his seat. "I'm going to bed."

"Same here! Have some time to think over what you've said!" Owain demanded.

Everyone got up in left with Gerome sitting them clenching his fists and shaking in frustration. It was clear that grandmaster's manipulations have already infected his friends. Nothing he could say would make them see that they were friends with the one person who took their families away from them. The person who will do it again and revel in their suffering.

"Gerome, what you've said today was unforgivable. I am truly ashamed at your display, and your insistence that Robin should be killed was completely uncalled for." Lucina had remained in the room to talk to him privately.

"What in the hell do you see in him?" He asked.

"Robin…" She closed her eyes and thought about the good times she's had with him. How she would always come to him to talk through her problems. How he fought alongside her against the Revenants. The moment they shared at the Inn at Sage's Hamlet. It made her smile every time she thought about it. "He's a great man with great ambitions. No matter how foolish or naive his ideals may sound, he fights for what he believes in. That's what makes him strong and that's why… I will always believe in him."

"I can't believe it," Gerome muttered as he saw Lucina's face as she recounted the times she shared with the grandmaster. "You have feelings for him, don't you?"

"It…" She blushed a little but shook it off as she turned around. "It doesn't matter. All I will say is that Robin is not who you think he is, and if you do attempt anything, then…" He gave him a quick glance. "I will fight you." She finally said as she left.

Once they were all gone and The Wyvern Rider was finally alone, he slammed his hand onto the table, angry at the meetings outcome. His friends were blind, so terribly blind. While they had fallen for it, he saw right thought the tactician's words. It didn't faze him then, it won't faze him now.

Fools, all of them. He thought to himself before leaving to go to sleep. If they won't do what's right, then I'll do it myself.


After Nah had left the meeting room, she went to the railing and began screaming her heart out. Luckily, everyone was asleep so no one heard her. She then buried her head into her hands and began screaming some more. What Gerome had said made her so angry, she feared she could've seriously hurt him had she not been stopped.

"How dare he." She muttered. "How could he say that?"

She had an inkling that Gerome had some sort of dislike towards the tactician, considering their different ideals and while she knew he thought Robin was the rumored traitor from their timeline, she had no idea he would suggest murdering him.

She still felt tears streaming down her face. Nah never once doubted Robin's loyalty and saw him as one of her best and closest friends. To hear someone say such horrible things about him made her shake in anger.

She remembered all of the times she spent with him.

Please Nah, stand by my side. Let's take on this monster together, and survive to save the world!

How he motivated her to face her fear of the Revenants and how they worked together to actually kill one.

Nah. A cute name for a cute girl.

She remembered how he said he thought her name was cute and not at all weird, even though she always thought it was.

Thank you for your help, Nah. I know I… don't deserve it.

When she comforted him after having such a terrible nightmare. Seeing him cry like that, for having a dream that his friends had died showed his love and care for everyone.

She knew what she had to do. What she wanted to do.

"Robin!"

She sprinted towards the grandmaster's cabin, not caring at all if he was asleep.


The grandmaster went to work on one of his plans. In the event that the Shepherds makes contact with the resistance, he formed a plan to where he could get support from the citizens of Valm without drawing any attention to Walmart's followers. Luckily, he had come up with an idea to spread Gaius's spies throughout each city to spread the word. Hopefully, it would work.

I need to make sure everything goes according to plan. If I make even a single mistake, someone could end up dying. Robin pushed those thoughts away as he went to work.

Just as he finished up he heard loud footsteps coming from outside his room. Who was running in the hallway at this time?

"Robin!" Just then the door to his room flew open with Nah coming in, causing the grandmaster to jump in surprise.

"AH!" He yelled, startled by Nah's sudden appearance as he fell back in his chair. He got up from the floor and gave her a glare. "Gods be damned, you scared the hell out of me!" He exclaimed before looking at her. He saw her face stained with tears as if she had been crying for a while. "Nah, what's wrong?"

She replied, not with words but with action. She ran right into the grandmaster, wrapping her arms around his neck, letting out even more tears.

"Hey, what's with you?" He was confused as to what's going on.

"I had a meeting with my friends. It was so horrible!" She cried as she tried her best to calm down. "I just need you to hug me, please?!"

"O-Okay." He returned the hug and simply allowed her to let out whatever sadness she was feeling. He wanted to know the source of this so he could cheer her up. When she finally calmed down, he spoke again. "Better?"

"Y-Yes." She wiped away her tears.

"Now, what's the problem?" He asked, rubbing her back to comfort her.

"It's Gerome. That jerk, he said…" She tried so hard not to remember what he had said, it hurt too much.

"You don't have to tell me if you don't want to." He assured her.

"No, it's just…" If she told him that Gerome suggested killing him, he could report to Chrom which could put the Wyvern Rider in serious trouble. Even after what he had said, she remembered that Gerome was still her friend. She decided not to relay that info and tell him something else. "He said that we should never speak to you. That we should ignore you."

"Really? He said that?" He was surprised. He knew that Gerome had stated he had no intention of interacting with any of the Shepherds but he had no idea he would try to convince his friends to do the same, let alone saying they should stay away from the grandmaster himself. Just what was the Wyvern Rider's problem with him?

"B-But I won't listen!" She frowned with a certain fire that showed she wasn't planning on following her friends advice. "I won't throw away my friendship with you! I won't!"

"Nah, please calm down." He asked calmly, remembering that people were asleep.

"Oh, sorry." She smiled softly, rubbing the back of her head.

"Look Nah, I don't understand what Gerome's issue with me is, and if you know what it is, you don't have to tell me. But, whatever he asks of you, you should do whatever feels right to you." He explained, trying to make her feel better. "You're your own person, you make your own decisions, don't let anyone tell you differently, okay?"

"I know." She wiped her eyes, riding herself of the tears before deciding now was the time to ask him. "Then, I need to ask something of you."

"What is it?" He asked.

"Do you remember when we went to that bookstore back on Sage's Hamlet?" She asked and he nodded, wondering where this was going. "That book I bought, History of the Divine Dragon Clan: Vol 1, described a certain ritual that the clan did with humans back then."

"What ritual?" He asked as he was curious as to what kind of ritual she talking about.

"Well, you are aware about a manakete's longevity right? Well, back then, the Divine Dragons created a ritual so that any bond they formed with a human would last eternally, even after death." She explained in great detail. "It's called the Eternal Bond."

"I see. So, why are you bringing it up?" He wondered.

"Well, it's a little embarrassing but…" Her face was red, a little shy about asking him. "I was thinking that, this could be something we could do together."

"Huh?" His eyes grew wide at what she was trying to say. She wanted to perform a ritual with him to ensure that their friendship would last for eternity. He thought it was touching, but was a little skeptical about what he had to do to make it work.

"But, if you don't want to, I understand." She looked away, fearing his answer.

"I don't see the harm in it." He said which got her attention. "What do we have to do?"

"Well, it's more of what I have to do. And… well…" She twiddled her fingers, she wasn't really expecting him to say yes. "I have to… uh… bite your neck."

"Bite my neck?" He was taken aback. Is this really what the Divine Dragons did back then to create eternal bonds with their human friends? This sounded very strange.

"In this ritual, when the Divine Dragon tastes the blood of the human they choose to bond with, it serves as a constant reminder of their friendship, even if the human were to pass on." She explained. "It's weird, I know. But…"

"So, you just have to bite my neck? That's it?" He asked.

"Y-Yes." She stated. Now that she explained how the ritual goes, she knew he was going to say no.

This whole ritual sounded like something out of a cheesy novel. Although, he saw no harm in this. All he had to do was let her bite his neck and from the tone of her voice, this would mean a lot to her. Was she doing this because of Gerome? Was she so afraid of losing her friendship with him because of what the Wyvern Rider said?

"Is this something you want to do, or something you feel obligated to do because of Gerome said?" He asked her.

"No! I…" She thought it over and made her choice. "I want to do this."

"Then… do it." He replied.

"Huh?!" Her eyes widened at his response. Did he just… agree to it?

"As weird as this sounds, I can see how much this means to you. I guess, we could consider this as ensuring your loyalty as my bodyguard." He joked, trying to elevate the awkwardness of the situation.

" Well, when you put it like that." She tapped his shoulder and laughed along with him. "Okay… hold still, Robin."

He did as she asked and stood still. She got closer to him and started rubbing two of her fingers against his neck giving it a light massage, trying to relax him as much as possible. She then grabbed onto his shoulders and leaned forward. Once she got closer to his neck, she opened her mouth and plunged her fangs into his neck.

"Ow!" He cringed. It stung, but it wasn't very painful. She then plucked her fangs from his neck and quickly wiped the blood from her teeth. Luckily, the bite wasn't very deep so whatever blood forming at his neck was little but that didn't change the fact that it still hurt.

"There." She smiled before using her handkerchief to wipe the blood of his neck. "Now we're friends forever."

"Well, I'm glad your happy, cause my neck is aching like crazy." He rubbed where she had bitten him, complaining about the pain.

"Thank you for this Robin." She hugged him tightly. "I promise to protect you for as long as you'll live."

"I'll hold you to that." He smiled at her loyalty. "Now please, go get some sleep, we'll be arriving at Valm Harbor tomorrow."

"Okay, good night." She said as she got up and left the room.

Thankfully, the bleeding had stopped and Robin placed a small bandaid onto his neck. He was glad to have lifted Nah's spirits even if performing a weird ritual like that would dry her tears and make her happy. He decided to get some fresh air, with everyone asleep, he would be the only one out on deck.

Or so he thought.

As he made his way outside the ship, he caught Lucina staring out onto the once, the wind whipped her hair in dramatic fashion. She wore a blue nightgown which went well with her blue hair. He had no idea how long she had been out here and decided to go talk to her. They haven't had much time to talk since they left Sage's Hamlet and thought now was a good time for the two to finally have some time together.

"Lucina?" He called out which got her attention.

"Oh, Robin!" She exclaimed as she had no idea he was still awake. "I thought you were asleep?"

"I was doing some last minute touches on my strategies, thought some fresh air would do me good." He noted as he stood beside her. "Are you okay? You look… upset?"

"A little. My meeting didn't go as well as I wanted it to be." She remarked. "Have you been informed?"

"Nah told me that Gerome said some pretty nasty things about me but didn't elaborate much more on that." He explained, noticing her cringe. he decided to ease her concerns. "I guess our difference in ideals are causing us to conflict, but I hope to change his mind one day."

"Huh?" That certainly got her attention.

"If there's one thing I don't want to do, it's make an enemy of the Shepherds. I know he's a good person, and I'll do whatever it takes to help him. If there's even a slim chance I could be his friend, I'll take it." He clenched his fist in determination, letting the Princess know that the Wyvern Rider's dislike toward him wasn't going to faze him.

"Hehehe." She let out a lighthearted giggle at his display. "You really are a good person."

"I'd like to think so." He commented.

"You are. I can tell by that bite wound you have on your neck." She pointed to his bandaged neck.

"Wha!" He was taken aback by her statement. "So you…"

"Nah may have told me her intentions on performing that ritual she read about with you." She told him. "So… are you two… together?"

"Together?" He raised an eyebrow at what she was implying. "No, we're not."

"Oh." She tried to hide it but she was a little happy and even excited that he and Nah weren't together. What could that mean?

"You seem happy about that?" He pointed out to her large smile that had formed when he told her.

"N-No, it's nothing!" She blushed, looking away so he couldn't see her. She immediately tried to change the topic "So, I heard you sparred with Father today."

"Huh? Oh, yeah. We did." He said.

"Who won?" She asked as she was curious as to whose stronger. Her Father or Robin.

"We sort of tied." He rubbed the back of his head. "We, uh, hit each other in the face at the same time, believe it or not."

"Really?" She couldn't hold back her laughter, visualizing the scenario in her head. He grew red with embarrassment at her laughter and looked away so she couldn't see it. "It feels good to laugh like this. I mean, we're practically heading into a war zone. Everything could change tomorrow… It's a little scary."

"I'm not worried." He said as she looked him. "In your future, we didn't have you or your friends. You guys will be the symbols of change that will bring this world to peace."

"Robin…" She smiled as she moved closer to him with their shoulders touching. "Your determination give me strength. Whatever challenge we face, we'll tackle it head on."

"Together." He said as the two continued to admire the stars in the sky.

He missed talking with her like this. It always made him happy and lifted his spirits.

If he wasn't mistaken, he felt fingers suddenly grab at his hand. When he glanced down he saw Lucina trying to entwine their fingers together. He looked at her and saw her face flushed with red. From the looks of it, she had no idea what she was doing but kept going anyway.

He hoped no one was around to watch them. Once their hands were fully intertwined, he enjoyed the warmth given off of their connection. He never held hands like this but he had to admit, it felt nice. They looked at each other, both faces flushed with red so they simply favored each other a smile instead of saying anything as they continued to watch the stars.

Little did they know that someone was watching them, and they were not happy with what they saw. Gerome had followed the Grandmaster out of his room, wondering what he was up to when he saw him talking to his leader. He overheard their conversation and it was clear to him that he had already infected Lucina and the rest of his friends with nothing more than words of manipulation. Not only that, seeing the two hold hands nearly made him lose his cool. How dare he come into their lives and easily win their trust? He had no right to do that.

For now, he would leave it alone. He remembered that he was still the Shepherds tactician and if he acted now, it wouldn't end well for him. He would follow his orders, for now, but he knew what he had to do, and when the time was right, he would act accordingly.


The next day the members of the War council met in the meeting room to discuss strategy. Only a few hours remained until they reached Valm Harbor and they knew that the moment they reached land, they would be put to work immediately. Luckily, they put Robin's dossiers to work.

"So, odds are we will face this Farber fellow once we dock?" Basilio asked.

"According to Robin's dossiers, he has control of the whole Harbor. The moment we land, we should ready ourselves for battle." Flavia stated.

"I've been meaning to ask." Frederick brought up something that was bothering him. "No offense to you Robin, but how are we sure that these dossiers are accurate? If I am correct, Nelson provided this information and I am unsure if I should rely on the info of a madman."

"He had no reason to lie to me, Frederick," Robin assured him. "His capture did not hinder his plan on taking the Fire Emblem, he had nothing to lose by telling me about his former comrades."

"Despite that, Frederick does have a point." Chrom pointed out. "What if these dossiers are false information Nelson gave you to trick us?"

"If they are, I'll start over once we make contact with the Resistance if there truly is one. But, I'm willing to bet they're legit." The grandmaster said.

"I believe him." Lucina took his side in which the Great Knight relented, deciding to believe in him as well.

"Um, one thing I wanted to bring up." Cordelia brought up to the other person who decided to attend the meeting. "No offense, but why is she here?"

They all pointed to Nah who made the decision to attend the War Council. She stood at Robin's side and was quiet throughout the meeting although once the pegasus knight brought it up, they all started to notice she was there.

"Lady Cordelia made no offense Lady Nah, but War Council meetings are for high ranking officials only." Frederick pointed out but she wasn't fazed.

"Then she has the right to attend," Robin said which confused everyone. "I've appointed her as the official bodyguard of the Grandmaster of Ylisse."

"Bodyguard?" Chrom raised an eyebrow at what he just said.

"Yep, I've vowed to protect Robin with my life." She cheerfully said.

"Makes sense if you think about it." Gaius, the royal Spymaster pointed out. He along with Cordelia, aren't obligated to attend War Council meetings but decided to anyways. "Blue's got Stick-In-The-Mud, and Bubbles's got the Little Miss. Everyone wins."

"When you say, Stick-In-The-Mud, are you referring to me?" Frederick groaned, obvious that the nickname was directed at him.

"Who else?" The Spymaster simply laughed as he placed a lollipop in his mouth. "Besides, the little squirt's a dragon. I say let her stay."

"I trust the discussion concerning Nah's presence is settled?" Robin asked, wanting to get back to important things.

"Y-Yes." Chrom decided to let the subject go as it seemed harmless. "We need to plan our approach when we arrive. I'd hate to have the citizens get caught into our fight."

"Already planned that out." Robin pulled out a well-written plan. "One group will calm the citizens while another will deal with Farber."

"In that case, I will lead the Shepherds against the General's men." Chrom volunteered, not really giving anyone a choice.

"As you wish, Me and the Future Warriors will deal with the citizens then." The grandmaster gave his plan.

"I'll assist Robin." Lucina offered which earned a smile from the grandmaster.

"Well, it seems we have our plan." Chrom smiled, knowing this would go smoothly with his best man and daughter leading one group while he lead the other.

"Also, before we close the meeting off, I have another matter to address." The grandmaster brought up another topic to discuss.

"What is it, boy?" Basilio asked.

"We're heading into foreign territory. There will be many who oppose us, but I'm willing got be not everyone is for Walhart. After all, Valm has a Resistance for a reason." He explained.

"And?" Flavia wondered.

"It wouldn't hurt to have the populace on our side. Once Valm's people find out that the Shepherds have arrived, there will be many who may support us." He said.

"That's good, the more support the better." Chrom nodded, agreeing with his statement.

"You don't get it, do you?" The grandmaster shook his head, confusing everyone. "If Walhart were to discover Valm's people supporting his enemies, he could have them all killed just to erase suspicion, even those who don't support us would be in danger."

"So what you're saying is we need the support of the people without Walhart or any of his followers having any idea?" Cordelia managed to understand what he was talking about while the others were lost.

"Good to see someone gets it." The grandmaster remarked before handing his orders to the Spymaster. "That's were you come in, Gaius."

"Ah, I get it." He laughed as he viewed the orders given to him. "You want my spies to spread the word secretly without throwing off Mr Conquerer's buddies?"

"Correct." Robin smiled. "Once we're done with Farber, spread the word that the Shepherds have arrived and that we plan to take Walhart down. I'm willing to bet we'll gain some followers."

Everyone smiled at the grandmaster's initiative. Always thinking ahead, making plans to further better the Shepherds chances of victory. This could work in their favor, having Walhart's people against him discreetly would work as the Valmese would lose their support and they would have no idea.

"Alright, this meeting is adjourned." Chrom clapped his hands, ending the meeting. "Robin, Lucina, make sure you guys ready yourselves."

"Of course, Father." She nodded.

"Don't worry." The grandmaster shrugged, not at all worried.


All Shepherds were on deck, armed and ready for what awaits them. Chrom and Robin stood at the front while the Future Warriors stood by Lucina.

As soon as the ship landed, they all departed the Sovereign and readied themselves for battle. The grandmaster surveyed the area so that he can give his orders properly and had to admit, the Valmese had the harbor well fortified. There were a few houses here which means, as the grandmaster had predicted, there may be some civilians around.

"At last, Valm Harbor." Chrom commented as he looked at the area. "It appears well fortified."

"Indeed." The grandmaster said as he looked ahead. He noticed fighting happening in the distance. "Seems like the Valmese are to preoccupied with someone that they've failed notice our arrival."

"You're right." The prince agreed, trying to get a better look at who they were fighting. "Guess you were right on the money about a Resistance here."

"Obviously." The grandmaster rolled his eyes at how Chrom had doubted him.

"Alright Shepherds, gather round!" Every soldier turned their attention to Prince Chrom and Grandmaster Robin, ready to receive their orders. "We will split into two teams, one team will deal with their General while the other rounds up civilians and ensures their safety." He turned to his friend, giving him the floor.

"You've all been informed of your objectives, so get to it!" The grandmaster said, watching as the Prince led the rest of the shepherds into the Harbor, ready for battle while the Future Warriors remained with him. "Okay guys, this is what we've been waiting for. Our objective is to help out the civilians, okay?" They each nodded. "Nah, I need you to get a better look at whose fighting over there. If it's a resistance member, we should give assistance."

"Right!" She used her dragonstone and flew into the air. Once she got a better look, she turned to the grandmaster. "It's a woman with black hair. She's fighting all by herself."

"We need to help her." Lucina stated.

"Okay guys." Robin pulled out his tome. He along with the Future Warriors charged into the Harbor, ready to fight. "Let's go!"


Say'ri was running for her life as the Valmese ran after her, trying to end her and her Resistance. Anyone that tried to end her life was swiftly cut down, as none could match her skill with a blade. As she was backed into a corner, she saw a ship dock and immediately came to the conclusion that help had finally come.

"Who is that?"

She looked on ahead and saw two figures at the front, one with blue hair and one with silver hair. The blue haired man went off in the direction of where Farber was, likely going to try and take him down while the silver haired man along with twelve individuals started to head in her direction. She sighed with relief.

"The Ylissean League?! So they finally landed! I only pray I can get in contact with Prince Chrom or Grandmaster Robin soon!" She whispered.

"Over 'ere! We have 'er cornered!" A Valmese soldier yelled, drawing a group of men who had her cornered.

"Confound these wretched imperials!" She raised her blade, ready to fight, but there were only five of them and only one of her. They had her surrounded. Was this the end?

"Got you now missy! Time to die!" One of the soliders readied their lance for a strike.

Once Say'ri prepared for a counter attack, she looked off to the side to see something leap in her direction. She squinted as it appeared to be coming very fast.

Is that… a person?! She thought to herself.

"What in the hell!" One of them yelled as he also took notice and before he knew it, the 'thing' that was headed in their direction closed in on them and kicked one of them in the face as he landed. It was a person, a man with silver hair who had magically leaped from the beach all the way to Say'ri's location. She could only stare in awe.

"Kill em!" He yelled in which they turned their attention to the man who simply smirked at their pathetic charge.

"Rexcalibur!"

With the lift of his hand, a tornado of wind captured them all and sent them straight into the sky.

"Nah, now!" He yelled.

"HYAA!"

The dragon blasted them with fire, killing them mid air. As they fell to the ground, their bodies were scorched, beyond recognition. Say'ri could only stare at amazement from the silver haired man's entrance and how he easily took out those soldiers.

The dragon had two women on her back, one with blue hair and one with red hair. Followed by a red haired Wyvern rider with an Archer and a blue haired pegasus knight. A beast like creature came sprinting around the corner with a Myrmidon and silver haired mercenary following alongside a War Monk and a Knight. From her deduction, they must be with the Ylissean League.

"Robin, that was awesome!" Cynthia cheered as she landed.

"A splendid way to move from one point to another Grandmaster! I dub thee, the ELWIND SUPER LEAP OF DEVASTATION!" Owain yelled, giving his wind jump a name.

"Uh, thanks." He nodded before turning to Say'ri. "Are you okay?" He asked causing her to stop staring to answer him.

"Y-Yes." She nodded. "You must be Grandmaster Robin of House Ylisse."

"You know me?" He raised an eyebrow at how she easily identified.

"Yes, your exploits are famously known in Valm despite Excellus's attempt to slander you." She commented.

"Oh?" He seemed interested in what she meant by that but decided to focus on the topic at hand. "Are you Resistance?"

"You've heard of us?" She seemed surprised seeing they had just arrived.

"We encountered a Valmese General named Nelson on our way here. We had a… polite conversation and he told me what I needed to know." He said

"You met that psychotic pig?" She scoffed in disgust at the name.

"Believe me, I know how you feel." Severa made a comment.

"Are the rest of you with the Ylissean League?" The woman asked to the others with him.

"Yes, it's a pleasure to meet you." Lucina bowed. "I'm Lucina, Princess of Ylisse."

"You're a Ylissean Princess? I apologize, but I've never heard of you." The woman tried her best to be polite.

"It's a long story." Robin interrupted. "May I ask your name?"

"I'm Say'ri, Princess of Chon'sin, and Leader of the Resistance." She formally introduce herself.

"A Princess?!" He had no idea he was talking to royalty and kneeled in respect. "I apologize Milady, I had no idea."

"Fie, Grandmaster, please address me casually. I prefer it that way." She said, allowing the man to regain his composure.

"As you wish. Can you fight? We could use the help." He asked.

"Aye, sir. My blade is ready to assist you." She exclaimed.

"Okay." He then turned to his comrades. "Guys, stick to the plan and check the houses. Me and Say'ri are going to check on Chrom. Lucina, until I get back, you're in charge."

"I won't let you down Robin." She nodded, letting him know she had what it takes.

"I know you won't." He smiled before turning to the others. "Let's get to work guys!" They all nodded and went about checking the nearby houses to ensure the civilians were safe. A few of the Valmese saw what they were doing and tried to attack them but they were swiftly cut down.

"Alright Say'ri, let's get over to Chrom. Hold onto me." He asked as he turend around.

Deciding to trust him, she wrapped her arms around him from behind and held on tight. He casted a wind spell into the ground which allowed the two to leap into the air, heading over to Chrom's direction.

While Lucina was busy assisting her friends in checking on the civilians, she caught sight of Say'ri wrapping her arms around Robin as they wind jumped over to her Father. When she saw another woman with her hands on him, it stirred up strange feelings inside her. She felt a large frown form on her face and her fists tighten. She didn't know how it happened, but she knew what she was feeling.

She was angry.


The rest of the Shepherds held off the Valmese while Chrom and Sumia went off to deal with Farber. Judging from the look of him, it seems that Robin's dossiers proved to be accurate as the man rode a black horse, wore the armor of a Dark Knight, and carried a Fire Tome. While he had a blank stare on his face, it carried a certain malice which could only be for those who would oppose his god.

"You must be the Exalt Chrom and Queen Sumia. You two along with the Demon of Ylisse are my master's sworn enemies." He explained to them.

"Demon of Ylisse?" The Prince wondered curiously.

"I think he means Robin." His wife commented.

"That's new." The prince said before turning to his attention back to his enemy. "Are you General Farber?"

"Aye. Do you intend to parley Ylissean Prince? Your attempts would be worthless. If you wish to live, you will kneel before your true superior." He commanded.

"We will never surrender to the likes of a tyrant." The Prince yelled. "You're close to your defeat, if you surrender, we will spare you."

"I will not bow before a mere speck like you." He prepared to cast a spell before he caught something in the sky, heading in his direction. The sun was blocking him from getting a clear view.

Just then a man with silver hair with a woman on his back landed right in front of the Prince in his wife. Farber could only stare, astounded by what just happened.

"Took you long enough." The Prince commented. "How's Lucina and the others?"

"They are currently assisting the civilians." He said as the woman on his back let go of him. "This is Say'ri, Resistance leader and Princess of Chon'sin."

"It's a pleasure to meet you Prince Chrom." She bowed.

"Likewise." He nodded. While the were introduced he noticed that Robin had taken a few steps ahead of them, ready to challenge the Valmese Harbor.

"You must be Robin, the Demon of Ylisse. It appears Excellus's description of you was false, you look mere human to me." Farber commented.

"I'm getting really irritated by this nickname nonsense." The grandmaster glared at him. "Chrom, keep his men off of me. I'm going to take him down."

"And let you play the loner card again? Like hell!" The Prince complained, not wanting his friend to fight alone.

"I shall assist." Say'ri exclaimed and stood by his side.

"Happy?" The grandmaster turned to his friend who rolled his eyes and turned to fend off the Valmese.

"Be careful, okay?" The Prince said as he and his wife went off to fight the rest of the enemy.

"You two are fools to face me! Long live the Emperor! Death to all who oppose him!"

He sent a few Fire Spells in his direction which he quickly repelled back with Fire Spell of his own. Say'ri was right behind him, trying to find a quick way to attack him without being burned.

While Farber was distracted by a torrent of wind spells the grandmaster decided to throw at him, Say'ri rushed at him, Killing Edge drawn, and went for a killing blow. He was able to avoid being killed by her blade, but unfortunately for him, the strike meant to kill him took the life of his horse. He fell off but quickly regained his composure and sent an Arcfire towards her to take her life.

Robin sent and Arcwind towards his spell, stopping it and saving Say'ri from getting scorched. She backed away and stood by the grandmaster's side once again.

"We've eliminated his horse, let's go in for the killing blow." She said.

"Okay, follow my lead." The grandmaster whispered a plan into her ear. She looked at him, wondering if he was serious but the look in his eye said he was. She decided to believe in him and stood in front of him and readied herself. He placed his hand on her back, ready to cast a spell.

"Whatever you two are planning, it is futile." He readied another spell. "You puny ants are nothing compared to the might of Emperor Walhart!"

"He must be something if he relies on the incompetent." Robin retorted a reaction of anger from Farber.

"Die!" He yelled as he charged at the duo.

"Elwind!"

He casted an Elwind spell, sending Say'ri into the General's direction. She came at him at extraordinary speed and by the time he figured out what had happened, he looked down to see blood pouring from his side. He turned around to see the Chon'sin princess behind him with her blade coated in his blood, showing that she had cut right through him.

He fell to his knees as his vision began to fade. Even on the verge of death, Farber could do nothing but laugh.

"I may fall… but we are legion…" He continued to laugh as body hit the ground. "You cannot stop… the Conqueror…"

And with that, he was dead.

"I admire your loyalty Farber." Robin went over and closed his eyes as a sign of respect. "But your Conqueror will fall."

He then went over to Say'ri to check on her and see how she was doing.

"Are you alright?" He asked.

"Aye, what an incredible plan, Grandmaster! I never dreamed of being capable of such speed." She smiled in admiration of his strategy.

"Yeah, I tried it out with a friend of mine once, thought it could prove useful." He answered with honesty. "Let's regroup with the others."

Both groups, the assault and rescue team regrouped. According to Lucina, she and her friends checked each house to make sure the citizens were alright. Apparently, once Farber took control, many of the citizens took refuge in their homes, fearing of going outside and angering the Valmese. They had plenty of food but they were running low so first order of business was supplying them with water and provisions.

The Shepherds were able to take down Farber's men with ease. Thankfully, none were injured. In the meantime, Frederick directed a few soldiers to set up sentries around the Harbor to maintain the area.

One notable thing to bring up was the large frown that formed on Lucina's face. From the look of it, she seemed to be peeved about something.

"Lucina?" He called out in which he turned to him.

"Yes, Robin?"

"Is something wrong? You seem angry?" He asked, pointing to her large frown.

"Oh, it's nothing." She passed it off and went over to her father which only left the grandmaster more confused. Her friends later regrouped with him.

"Hey guys, is Lucina angry about something?" He asked them.

"Don't know, she's been frowning like that for a while. Did you say something to piss her off?" Severa spoke up.

"I don't think so." Robin rubbed the back of his head.

"She could be mad about how the citizens were being treated, I know I would." Inigo pointed out.

"I say we give her space." Kjelle said in which everyone nodded.

"Anyway, I'm very proud of you guys. Good job on your first mission." Robin smiled, earning nods of gratitude from the others.

"Why exactly were we chosen as a rescue team, if I may ask?" Gerome asked, for the first time, in a polite manner. "We are Shepherds too, we should have every right to join the fray."

"Everyone has their missions, Gerome. Don't be impatient, we'll be doing a lot more fighting in the coming days." The grandmaster told him.

"Hmph." He simply scoffed and turned away.

"Alright guys, let's go speak with Chrom."

The grandmaster and the Future Warriors went over to Chrom who along the Khan's, and Lissa, properly introduced themselves to the Chon'sin princess.

"Mercy, friends!" She bowed in respect. "The tales of your strength were no exaggeration... I am called Say'ri, Princess of Chon'sin, and I lead the Resistance."

"So there is an organized resistance?" Chrom asked.

"Aye, of sorts. Several groups formed to seek liberty for the states of Valm." She explained.

"I'm surprised, I would've thought Walhart would stamp out any dissenters." The Prince said.

"He tries, but we Resistance are a slippery lot." She clenched her fist in determination. "We strike hard and then vanish again into the dark of night. Even now rebels ride to the banner of dynasts across the continent. United, we could pose a veritable threat to Walhart. And so, for some time I have struggled to bring us together."

"What's stopping you?" Flavia wondered

"Greed. Jealousy. Sloth. All the old weaknesses of man." Say'ri explained. "The dynasts all would have freedom, but on their own terms. Some refuse to take up arms unless their territory is threatened. Others thrive under the Conqueror's heel and will not join unless there is profit in it. Liberty is a fine word, aye, but not always enough to rouse men from foolishness."

"I take it you're looking for a more convincing argument, then?" The East Khan wondered.

"Just so, although my efforts thus far have met with meager success. I fear many distrust me." The Chon'sin Princess said somberly.

"Is it because Chon'sin's King also fights for Walhart?" Robin asked in which the princess looked at him.

"How do you know that?" She asked, wondering how the grandmaster knew of Yen'fay's allegiance to the Conquerer.

"Here." He handed her the dossiers that he wrote down from the information that Nelson had given him. Her eyes widened at the files. "So, I am to assume these are accurate?"

"I'm surprised. You said so earlier but how did you get that psycho to talk?" She wondered.

"Me and my friend Severa had a…" He hoped his knuckles to emphasize his point. "…polite conversation with him."

"Loser sang like a bird." The redhead smirked.

"I-I see." Say'ri muttered, wondering just what tactics did they use to make Nelson talk.

"Why does Chon'sin's king support the empire?" Basilio asked.

"Would that I knew, good sir. Yen'fay was a good man once, but he is my brother no more!" She yelled which caused everyone to grimace, seeing the hurt in her eyes from being betrayed by family. "If we meet on the battlefield, I would cut him down, same as any other imperial." She told them but there was a certain pain in her words. "Walhart is said to command a million men now. Perhaps more. Sooner or later he will stamp out the Resistance entirely, if we do not unite."

"Um, Chrom? Did she just say he has a MILLION soldiers?" Lissa said in shock.

"Ha! And what are one million men against the Ylissean dogs of war?! You stopped a thousand of their ships, did you not?" She looked at the grandmaster and smiled. "Your daring strategy has awoken and inspired people across all of Valm. Together I know we can yet unite the Resistance and break Walhart's grip!" She clapped her hands and bowed. "Help me, Prince Chrom! Grandmaster Robin, I beg of you!"

"This is no easy thing you ask of me." Chrom said. "I have my own causes: a halidom to save and a future to win."

Those words caused Lucina to look upon her Father but she looked a little down as she had no idea what to do in this situation. Her friends also shared the same doubts. With the amount of men in Walhart's army, the Shepherds could be picked off like flies. There is no way they could win against an army like that.

But… just when everyone was beginning to have doubts, someone spoke up.

"A successful team beats with one heart." The grandmaster said, which confused everyone as to what he meant. "It's a proverb, in case anyone was wondering. It means that if a team comes together as one, with the same goal and determination, nothing can stop them. Walhart may have his team, but so do we." He turns to the Chon'sin princess. "Regardless of how the odds look right now, I refuse to stand by and let some brutish thug, who hides behind the title of emperor, do what he wants."

"Grandmaster Robin…" She was stunned by his kind words.

"Say'ri, you have my support. Whatever I can do to help you, I'll do it!" He clenched his fist in determination, earning a smile from her.

The Future Princess watched as Robin made his declaration to help her and smiled. Always the one to help others. She would be a poor partner if she didn't take his side so she stood by him and made the same promise.

"I'm with you too, Milady." Lucina said.

The Future Warriors also agreed with Robin and mad their vows to help Say'ri in her mission to free Valm.

"Always have to one up me, huh?." The Prince smiled at his friend's determination to help the Chon'sin princess and decided to make his own vow. "I admire your courage. Perhaps your mission is the best way to achieve mine. So yes, Say'ri. I will join your cause with my own."

"Thank you! Thank you all so much!" She yelled happily, tears streaming down her face.

"First things first, we need to win the support of the people. I've already instructed our spies to spread the word that the Shepherds have arrived but we won't see results until tomorrow." The grandmaster explained and turned to Say'ri. "Do you have any suggestions?"

"Well, I do have one idea." She said. "Since ancient times, many of our people have worshipped Naga. More precisely, we worship the divine dragon's oracle, Lady Tiki. Though most know her only as the Voice. The Voice is trapped in her temple as Walhart's prisoner. But if she were freed…"

"The Resistance could unite around her." Robin finished her sentence and she nodded in agreement. "Where is this 'Voice' being held?"

"There is a shrine built in the branches of the divine Mila Tree." She pointed to the tall tree off in the distance. "She is confined there. It's about a days walk if we decide to make camp on the road."

"Then we have our plan." Chrom smiled, ready to depart. "Let's get to it!"


As the Shepherds marched for the Mila Tree, they decided to make camp on the road. Everyone was exhausted and there was a good chance they would be put to combat again if they arrived without rest.

Robin decided to work on his strategies as he wanted to make sure everything was precise. However, something was nagging at him, particularly Say'ri's words from earlier.

My efforts thus far have met with meager success. I fear many distrust me.

He did not like the sound of that at all. If Say'ri's assumptions are true and that many of the Resistance hold no trust for her, that makes them dangerous. He didn't hold any doubt or distrust for the Chon'sin Princess at all, far from it. Her skill in combat greatly impressed him and her pleas for help were very sincere. But, he couldn't push aside the possibility that the Resistance could be be a potential threat, no matter how low the chance might be.

"Excuse me?" He heard his tent bell ring which cut him from his thoughts. "Grandmaster Robin, are you awake?"

"Yes, come in." He called out which allowed whoever was calling from outside his tent. His tent flap opened and the grandmaster was met with none other than the Chon'sin Princess herself. "Good day, Say'ri. How can I help you?"

"I was hoping to catch you before I went to sleep." She commented as she entered his tent. "I was hoping to get to know you better."

"Oh?" He said, she seemed a little embarrassed about something which confused him as he had no problems telling anyone his personal life.

"Yes, you see…" She blushed a little. "I'm actually a huge fan of you. I've heard about your adventures and exploits and I've wanted to meet you for a while."

"Really? I'm honored." The grandmaster was surprised, not having any idea that the Chon'sin Princess herself admired him so much. "What do you wish to know?"

They talked for a while with Robin telling her his backstory as well as his adventures. He explained to her that he has no memory of his past from beyond two years ago and how Chrom found him.

"So, you have no memory of your childhood? Your parents?" She asked.

"None whatsoever." He shrugged.

"So, Prince Chrom found you in a field unconscious without memory. Bandits attacked one of your nearby towns, you fought against them, and Prince Chrom recruited you? Just like that?" She was trying to make sure she got the story correctly.

"That's the gist of it, yes."

"What a crazy story." She commented. "No offense, but if it were me, I would've been suspicious."

"I got that a lot from Frederick when I first met him, but considering there was no evidence that I had ill intentions toward Chrom, there was no case." He said, remembering how things were between him and the Great Knight back then.

"Wisely said. Please continue."

He told her about how the war with Mad King Gangrel and his adventures into the Outrealms. He also told her about his supposed heritage of being the son of Plegia's current king.

"So, you're the Prince of Plegia?" She asked.

"I don't go by that title, and it makes me sick just thinking about it." He scoffed. "I don't know Validar nor do I have any care for the man. He's Grimleal which makes him…"

"Your enemy?" She finished. "Seems like we're similar." She said, causing him to remember how her brother is now her enemy due to his alliance to Walhart.

"Oh… I'm sorry." He apologized, not wanting to remind her that her brother betrayed her.

"It's okay. Please continue."

He told her about how he encountered Nelson who had planned on stealing the Fire Emblem and destroying Sage's Hamlet. He also told her about how he and his friends from the future defeated him and changed Sage's Hamlet for the better.

"I can scarcely believe it!" She seemed appalled. "What made that fiend think he could get away with such monstrosity?!"

"He was Grimleal. To him, he probably thought his actions were normal." He simply shrugged.

"I'm very pleased that he has been dealt with. I lost a lot of good men to that monster." Say'ri clenched her fist in rage.

"I'm sorry." He offered.

"Fie, Grandmaster. You have nothing to apologize for. If anything, I should be praising you for stopping such evil. You're exactly as the stories say you are." She smiled.

"Thanks." He said before deciding to bring up another topic. "I've been meaning to ask, you said that Walhart's tactician has been trying to discredit me? How exactly?"

"That pig Excellus, began spreading tall tales about you around the time Walhart came into power, saying you are a ruthless, soulless, murderer, forcing people to live in fear of being killed for any perceived wrongdoing." She explained which made his raise an eyebrow on how descriptive she was. "He began calling you the Demon of Ylisse and has offered a reward to anyone who brings you in, dead or alive."

"I see." He had to admit he was insulted by what she had told him. The grandmaster never thought himself as ruthless as he does give his enemies the chance of surrendering with the promise of sparring them should they take the deal. Whoever this Excellus is, he clearly doesn't know his facts. "Tell me, Say'ri. Do you believe think I'm a demon?"

"Absolutely not. Demons have no feelings. From our fight with Farber, I could tell what kind of man you are. Evil, ruthless, and soulless, are not the words I would use to describe you." She recalled how when she asked for assistance, he immediately offered to help her and that it was likely his motivation that caused to others to offer their help. "You're a good man, Grandmaster. I hope we get along from here on out."

"Absolutely. Also, call me Robin. Like you, I'm not one for titles." He smiled.

"Of course." She nodded. "I've been meaning to ask, I've heard you are a carrier of the rare Levin Sword? May I see it?"

"My sword is currently having maintenance being done on it, but once it's done, perhaps you would fancy a duel." He offered which caught her attention.

"A duel? That would be the greatest honor." She smiled, wondering what kind of style this man uses. "I shall take my leave. Have a pleasant night, Robin."

"You too." And with that, she departed. In truth, he wanted to talk to her about her earlier comment about how some in the resistance don't trust her. It made him feel very uneasy. However, she likely would have denied whatever suspicions he had and would probably have been offended.

If anything, it's something to consider in the event that the Resistance were to fight alongside the Shepherds. He should run this by Frederick and see if he has the same concerns.

Having finished up work, he decided to take a walk around camp. He got up from his desk and left his tent.

He went for a stroll around the camp to check on how things were. Some of the Shepherds were up either telling stories or playing cards while others were asleep. He did take notice that someone was by the campfire by the themselves and wondered who it could be. The moment he saw two long strands of red hair, he knew who it was.

"Severa?" He called out in which she turned around. She simply gave him a small smile and patted the log next to her, signaling him to sit down with her. "I figured you'd be asleep."

"I would be if my parents weren't making so much noise." She complained.

"Oh?" He looked over to Ricken and Cordelia's shared tent which stood right next to Severa's and saw it rustling around. Since it was far from the campfire, he couldn't hear anything. "Should I tell them to quiet down?"

"I wouldn't go over there if I were you." She grabbed him before he could do anything. "Like I said, they're making too much noise, if you catch what I'm saying."

"If they're being loud I think I should… wait…" He looked over to the couple's tent and caught Frederick walking by. The moment the Great Knight stood close to their tent, he immediately grimaced and left in the other direction. It was quite clear what was going on in that tent. "No…"

"Yep." She rolled her eyes.

"That… is incredibly disturbing." He immediately turned around to face the campfire, wanting to erase this knowledge from his memory.

"You're telling me? I'm the one who has a tent next to them. I can't sleep like this." She complained.

He immediately reached into his coat and pulled out a spare tent model and handed it to her.

"There's some open space near my tent." He said in which she smiled and took it. "Has Nah told you how to set this up?"

"A little magic and it turns into a real tent? Yeah, I know." She said but she wasn't ready to go to bed yet. She wanted to stay here and talk with him some more. In fact, there was something bothering her and she figured he could be of some help. "Is it alright if I ask you a question?"

"I'd be insulted if you didn't" He smiled.

"I'm being serious here!" She yelled but she didn't mean to. She began after she calmed down. "How do you feel when you kill someone?"

"What?" He was taken off guard by her question and wondered just why she was thinking about something like this. He decided to answer honestly. "If you want my honest answer Severa, it makes me sick. No one should ever have to stain their hands with the blood of others whether for good or evil. But sometimes, we have no choice."

"I know." She nodded. "In the future, all of humanity came together to fight against Grima and the Risen. Every life was important, if one died, they would become Risen, and having to kill someone you knew… it… it hurts, nearly breaks your heart." She said, frustrated by this war. "But here… people are fighting each other for stupid selfish reasons. It makes me so… so angry!"

Robin could tell that she was conflicted, having grown up her whole life fighting and killing Risen, she was probably under the assumption that killing would be second nature to her. That is, until she realized she's fighting actual humans with feelings and emotions, not to mention blood.

He scooted closer to her and placed a hand on her shoulder, comforting her as she looked up at him.

"You and I… we're alike, you know." He pointed out.

"Yeah, right." She scoffed. "So your a childish, talentless, little brat who whines about having taken a life? I doubt that."

"First off, stop saying that." He glared at her, grabbing her arms forcefully and making her look at him. "You're not a brat and for the last time, you're not talentless. Quit talking about yourself like that. I know what kind of person you are Severa, because I'm your friend and I'm damn proud to be."

"R-Robin." She exclaimed, blushing on how close their face were.

"S-Sorry." He let her go and calmed down before answering her again. "We're alike, because, like you… I'm angry at times too." He said which was the complete truth. Sometimes his anger and rage got the best of him and he was glad that his friends were always at his side to calm him down. It's still there, the anger and hate he feels in his heart. It's always been there and it may never go away. But he reminds himself of Emmeryn's words from two years ago, and reminds himself that he won't let his anger and hate control him.

"Really?" She raised an eyebrow at what he could be angry about.

"Yes, and if there is one thing that makes me angry, it's listening to you put yourself down all the time." He exclaimed. "Stop thinking you don't mean anything to anyone. In case you forgot, you mean something to me."

"Robin." She moved closer and wrapped her arms around him, drawing him into an affectionate cuddle. She rested her head on his chest and the sudden closeness caught him off guard. "Thank you."

"Severa…"

"I've never really had someone care about me like that. Sure, I had my friends, but no one has ever told me I actually meant something to them." She explained.

"Well, let me be the first to say it. I care about you." He said.

"Your little outburst made that clear." She laughed while he rolled his eyes. "But thank you, Robin. If you still have time, I would like to talk to you more."

"Of course." She let go of him so they could better face themselves. "What would you like to talk about?"

"Well, my first question is, do you have a girlfriend?" She asked.

"I knew this was coming." He rolled his eyes and many have asked him this question several times and he always replies with. "No I don't."

"Oh." She simply said. "Well, have you ever considered a relationship?"

"Well…" He thought about the question and he had to admit, ever since his talk with Lucina back on Sage's Hamlet, he began to have a completely different perspective on relationships. When Robin confessed his innermost jealousy of the other shepherds to the Future Princes, he realized that in doing so, he had recanted his belief on the concept of romance and love and actually thought about the possibility. "I don't know. I guess I would be open to it."

"That's good. Besides, all work and no play makes Robin an old man." She joked.

"Haha, very funny." He rolled his eyes and the two laughed together.

For the next hour or so, Robin and Severa talked and got to know each other more on a personal level. He learned about her favorite foods, her favorite color, her likes and dislikes, her dreams, her hobbies, etc.

After which the two bid each other good night and headed back to their respective tents. Whenever Severa brought up that she considered herself talentless, he immediately though of their initial encounter back at the Mercenary Fortress. She made a very smart strategic move when he confronted Holland and he couldn't help but wonder just how strong Severa's skill with strategy is.

I think I just found my back-up.


Lucina sat with Cynthia who didn't want to sleep in her tent by herself, listening to her little sister talk about how heroic they were when saving the citizens of Valm Harbor. The Future princess looked like she was paying attention but in reality, her mind focused on other things.

"And then I said, have no fear, Cynthia, the Warrior of Light is here! That's a good one, wouldn't you say?" Her sister asked and realized she wasn't paying attention. "Lucina?!"

"Huh?" Her sister's yell broke her from her thoughts.

"Were you even paying attention?!" She exclaimed.

"S-Sorry, sis. I've just been thinking." She said.

"Clearly?!" She threw her hands up in annoyance before deciding to tease her. "Would you be thinking about our handsome, dashingly tactician."

"Actually, yes." She said which shocked her sister as she was expecting to be defensive.

"Oh? Tell me about it." Teasing aside, she wanted to know what was bothering her.

"Do you remember when Robin took Say'ri to go see Father?" She asked.

"Yeah, he wind jumped out of there with her on his back. I swear, that move of his is super cool!" She cheerfully yelled

"Well, when I saw her wrap her arms around him, when I saw how close she got to him, I don't know how but… I just got so angry. Severa even told me I was frowning the whole day and I had no idea." She explained.

"So, are you saying you got jealous?" Cynthia asked.

"I don't know. It's just… when I saw her touch him… I hated it… I didn't like it at all." She said, thinking that it was childish to be thinking about it. After all, Robin was just taking her to Chrom. There was nothing romantic about it. In fact… thinking about the grandmaster being romantic with Say'ri was bringing back the anger she was feeling earlier. "Grrr!"

"Whoa! Sis calm down!" Her younger sister exclaimed, trying to calm her down.

"Oh… oh, no." She stopped frowning, seeing the worried look on her sisters face. "I'm so sorry, Cynthia. I don't know what came over me."

"It's okay, I understand." Her sister nodded, happy that she calmed down. "If we're being truthful, I've kinda had a little crush on him since I first met him."

"Really?" Lucina said. She thought Cynthia's comments about Robin were just playful banter.

"Can you blame me. He's so awesome and so… inspirational." She said. "But, seeing as how you like him, I'll back off."

"O-Okay." She nodded.

"But sis, I thought you were planning on leaving after Grima was defeated? That is what you told me before we made the trip back in time." The younger princess remarked on the conversation they had prior to leaving their destroyed world. How when all was done, she would live her life under a new alias or travel back to her world if she could.

"I know. I kept telling myself that I don't belong here. But… I don't know anymore. Whenever I think of leaving, my heart hurts. When that happens I think about all the time Robin has spent with me. The thought of never seeing him again… it… it breaks my heart."

"Lucina, look at me." She told her sister in which she complied. "Do you like Robin? I'm not teasing, I'm asking, do you truly like him?"

Lucina thought about it. She thought about how she felt whenever she was around him, how he always eased her concerns and how he was always there for her when she needed a friend or needed advice. She thought about how he, one who doesn't take partners, decided to partner up with her at her request. She remembered when she showed him her dress, how he confessed to her the things he would likely never say to anyone. She thought about how she held him in her arms after he broke down. She thought about how he fought alongside her against the Revenants and Nelson. Also… she thought about the other day when she reached for his hand without thinking and instead of rejecting it, he accepted it.

She couldn't ignore it.

"I do." She finally admitted it. "I do like him."

What she was feeling for him was something more than friendship. It didn't matter, the feeling was confusing but she knew exactly what it was: She was falling for Robin.

"About time." Cynthia smiled at her sister finally admitting her feelings. "Now, I'm not an expert on relationships myself, but I'm certain that Robin feels the same as you."

"You think so?" She wondered but she suspected that Robin may feel something for her as she recalled the words he said to her when they talked back on Sage's Hamlet.

When I'm around you, I feel… at peace. I don't need to hold back around you. I can just let out how I truly feel and you won't judge. I've always liked that about you. And… you're really important to me.

"Just give it time sis. He'll come around." The younger princess smiled.

"Cynthia. When did you get so… inspirational?" She wondered.

"Hehehe, I guess Robin's influence is rubbing off on all of us." She laughed in which Lucina joined in as well.

The two sister talked again, speaking on happier things. Cynthia said that when the war was over, she was hoping to join the Pegasus Knights and serve under Cordelia. It's good to see that her sister had a plan to start a new life in this world. Hopefully, Lucina could think of something as well. Now that she knew she didn't want to leave her friends and family behind, she wondered what she should do after Grima was defeated and the fighting was done.

Maybe a certain tactician will help her find out.


Damn, Gerome is such a jerk! How could he say something like that about our wonderful tactician. Whatever he's planning, it can't be good.

And we introduce Say'ri. I'd say she's alright. I admire her convictions, that's for certain.

Also, I have decided with much consideration to start writing my Huniepop Harem and Fire Emblem Awakening Harem. It will not cause any delay in the Tactician Magician chapters so don't worry. I kept telling myself I should focus on one fic at a time, but I thought about it and decided to get to work on the other projects.

Til next time.