Kidnap

It's already been a week since Kinomoto returned to the castle of Ylisstol with Chrom and the others. Having arrived, Kinomoto was swamped with work. Organizing the schedule and files, sorting out the herbs with their apothecraries, and checking on their patients. To her disappointment, their most visited patient have always been Vaike due to constantly daring Chrom and Lon'qu to spar. It was also safe to say that Syaoran have also joined their level in his head. Lissa was rarely ever in the castle anymore since she and the Hoshidan princess take turns assisting Emmeryn now. Kinomoto was uncertain of what they decided to do for the former exalt, but knowing that Chrom and the tacticians were the ones managing it, she wasn't too worried and was more relieved see that she still lives. As for Yen'fay and Priam, it's safe to say that nobody on this continent can really recognize the swordmaster as the former ruler of Chonsin and he decided to give up the sacred blade to his sister much to Say'ri's bewilderment as he rejected her offer to reclaim the blade she took from him. However, Priam was always seen moving about on his training regimen that even includes eating as one of his training, which she finds very unusual. Every now and then, Toya and Eriol would come to see her near the end of her shifts or in the Mess Hall. Kero now has decided to stay closer to her since Miriel and some of the other mages began to focus more on something else that seems to have to do with separating Grima's powers. Now, he helps her around with the equipments and the records of their patient's. Despite the peace and intense training, Kinomoto felt that something was off. There has been little to no attacks from the Risens, which was unusual considering their time to face off against the Plegian King was closing in on them any moment now. It was hard not to feel anxious over the teammates and, even more, knowing that Mark was somewhere out there and could be the cause for the decrease in Risens attacks. Ever since she overheard the leaders' conversation, she found it weird how they had yet to think of Mark's survival. With Emmeryn back with them, she knew that not all could be lost and that the man might also be alive somewhere out there too. Suddenly, there was sound of running footsteps through the hall as she looked up from her paper of her latest patient. Kinomoto took a quick peek through the gap in the door from her seat. She could barely see Spinel and Miriel rushing through the hall under the sun's bright rays. Seeing the two, Kinomoto muttered under her breath, "I wonder what could've happened?"

"I don't know." Forrest shook his head with a frown, "Lately, our mages have been moving about too. Nina, Ophelia, perhaps the two of you would know what's occurred amongst the mages lately?"

However, both girls shook their heads as Ophelia grimaced, "I'm really sorry, but my father would not tell me what has occurred amongst the other mages lately nor am I given any information regarding their movements."

Forrest shook his head again, "It's fine, Ophelia. Still, I wonder what's happened…"

Kinomoto nodded anxiously as the footsteps soon faded.

As Reflet walked into the library that morning, his eyes widen upon the sight of his best friend and Takumi sitting around one of the tables by one of the rows of book shelves.

"They're here?" Leo raised a brow before looking up, "Big Brother too?"

They looked up and saw Xander on one of the wooden ladders taking out books and putting it away after looking in the contents briefly from the ninth shelf or so. He turned to them with a small grin and got off the ladder, "Leo, Reflet, good morning."

"Good morning, Xander." Leo said with a nod before raising a brow, "What made you come to the castle's library, Brother?"

The king turned to the table, "A friend needed some help and, with his retainer gone elsewhere, I've decided to lend a hand."

"Really?" Leo smiled in amusement, "He could've asked me since I've been coming here almost daily now."

"I told him the same thing, but neither one of us could find you in the castle." Xander said.

Leo grimaced, "Oh, that's right. Sorry about that. Kamui and Azura had an incident early this morning and needed help. Then, Morgan's and Marc's experiment went off course and blew up our training grounds and…"

He sighed as he shook his head, "Let's just say I had things thrown at me one after another this morning. Had either of my retainers not offered to help step in for me, I'd still be there making sure the new recruits won't end up blowing up the castle or its walls."

"I see." Xander strained a grimace, "That'd explain where Reflet and Robin went."

Leo nodded, "Robin's gone to help them clean up the mess instead. Hopefully, that'd include banning them from anymore little traps and tricks up their sleeves."

"They're quite a handful." Xander nodded with a small chuckle, "But, I got a feeling they'll be rather powerful mages in the future, especially since Morgan is our first dark flier in the militia. Marc's skill in magic and swordsmanship seems to have earned him a place here as well."

Reflet strained a smile as he spoke, "I'm glad you think of the children so highly, but they still have a long way to go before they can start walking their own path independently, especially when both wants to become tacticians as well."

"Tacticians?" Leo grinned, "So, that's their goal. Then, they're going to have to study more if they wish to take on the job. It definitely is not an easy path for any of us to become one after all."

"Yes." Reflet nodded, "But, they're open-minded children and really optimistic despite the situations. I got the feeling that they'll pull through whatever comes at them."

Suddenly, there was a sigh as they looked over to the table where Chrom sat with furrowed brows. Reflet chuckled as he walked over to the Exalt, "I know that face… 'Dueling with unpleasant thoughts,' are we?"

Chrom looked up and chuckled, "You know me well, Reflet."

Looking around, Reflet grinned, "Hey remember when Lissa first brought me to the Shepheds' garrison? When I met all the Shepherds? And Sumia… Haha! Oh, what a day!"

After some thoughts, Reflet added, "Actually, that's my first memory, in a way."

"Heh. I suppose so." Chrom nodded as he closed his thick book, "I wish all our memories since could have been as joyful."

Reflet nodded upon remembering the past events that followed after, "I know… So much needless bloodshed. So many days of pain and doubt and fighting… We would have never made it without you there to guide us, you know. Robin thought the same this morning as well."

Chrom raised a brow, "Funny. I was going to say the same to you."

Reflet chuckled, "I guess we really are three halve of the same whole. You know, if Frederick were here, he'd have joined in on our conversation right about now."

Takumi sighed as he closed his book and placed it down on the table, "We've sent him to search for Sabel, the Final Gemstone, remember?"

Chrom nodded as he tapped a finger on the book he had been reading as well, "And I've been reading more about the Awakening ritual. Takumi and Xander have been helping me find more about it."

"And?" Leo asked recalling the vital answer it may have to their problem, "What have you learned?"

"It seems that whoever attempts the rite must brave Naga's fire." Chrom answered with narrowed eyes.

"Her fire?" the Nohrian prince raised a brow.

"Yeah." Takumi said with a sigh, "Naga is a divine dragon just like Lady Tiki, remember? Only much more powerful, I guess."

Chrom nodded, "If both body and spirit survive the agony, they are blessed with the dragon's power."

"And, if they don't they won't get the power, correct?" Xander said with a frown.

Chrom shook his head, "Yes, but worse. The candidate… dies."

"What?! No!"

Before they could say a thing, the voice had already said their part as they quickly turned to the door and saw the future-past princess already there with her head barely sticking out of the gap between the double doors. Lucina's eyes widen as she walked out before them and stammered, "…Er, that is… Father, must you attempt this?"

Chrom looked to her with a stern expression as he said, "Eavesdropping, young lady?"

"Forgive me, Father." Lucina grimaced, "I didn't intend to… I came to speak with you, but I couldn't find the right moment and-"

"It's all right, Lucina." Chrom nodded forgiving his daughter, "And yes, I'll be all right, too. I will withstand Naga's fire. I'm sure of it."

As Lucina opened her mouth, the door suddenly opened as a very familiar knight came walking in with the red samurai.

"Milord, I have returned." Frederick said with a curt bow.

"Ryoma?!" Takumi raised a brow, "You're here too?"

"Yes, Frederick? Did you find it?" Chrom asked focusing on the news of the retainer who have been absent for a couple weeks now."

"I believe so, sire." Frederick nodded, "King Validar has extended an invitation. He says Plegia has been guarding Sable, and now he wishes to return it to you."

"Validar…" Chrom narrowed his eyes in suspicions.

"How did you get this?" Leo raised a brow as the retainer's words caught everyone's attention.

"They sent word to me." Frederick answered, "They must have caught wind of my search…"

"A trap." Takumi said with a grimace.

Ryoma nodded as he said, "I agree, but let's first hear the rest of the news, Takumi."

Frederick nodded back in gratitude, "In any case, Validar asks that you visit him in person, that he might formally present it. Perhaps needless to say, milord, I agree with Prince Takumi. I don't like this one bit."

Chrom nodded with a sigh, "Neither do I, Frederick the Wary. Neither do I. At best, it's selfish political maneuvering at a time when the world can ill afford it."

"And those Risens back on Carrion Isle." Xander said with a grimace upon the memory.

Chrom nodded again in agreement, "At worst, our run-in with those Risen last visit was no accident..."

Leo frowned, "Then, we should-"

"But, we will meet with him." Chrom cut in and said to the retainer, "Send word at once."

"What?!" Takumi cried out in disbelief.

Hesitantly, Frederick frowned, "Milord, are you… certain that's wise?"

"No," Chrom agreed, "But, we haven't time to be certain… And my sister never refuse a diplomatic gesture, no matter how foul smelling."

His words brought back the memory when the Former Exalt met with the Former Plegian King. Though not all may have been there at the time, Ryoma was told of the incident that sparked war on both sides from the Shepherds themselves. None of them knew what to say as his words were true.

"If he doesn't give us the stone, he may at least reveal where it is." Chrom pointed out, "…Don't worry, Frederick, Takumi. I'm not walking into this blindly. We will make certain everyone is armed to the teeth."

Frederick nodded, "Then, the Fire Emblem, milord- You ought at least leave it behind."

Chrom said, "Unless that's what Validar expects, and he comes to steal it with my best men away…"

The Exalt shook his head, "No, it's safest with me, for now. We'll learn the truth of Validar's motive soon enough…"

The retainer bowed and walked out of the room, most likely, to prepare for the battle ahead of them. Chrom then turned to his future daughter, "Lucina, I need you to help keep watch of Kinomoto and Syaoran. I don't know why, but I'm rather concerned about their whereabouts and safety after hearing the news."

"I understand, Father." Lucina nodded, "They're in the infirmary clinic, right?"

Chrom nodded before they watched her leave the room. Then, he turned to the royalties and his tactician, "We, on the other hand, have something else to speak of."

They nodded.

It was unusual. Kinomoto and Syaoran were in the clinic tending to their patients when Lucina came in and notified them of the expedition. Then, as the others left, they were pulled to the side as Lucina quickly told them of her father's decision for an extra guard as they felt the end of their journey was coming to a close. However, she didn't stick with them till they came outside after packing their belongings. A message was sent to Flavia as they would meet up in Plegia. When Kinomoto joined some of their allies in the wagon, she soon found that Cordelia was there as well, much to her surprise. She knew the Pegasus knight was in no state to be taking part in combat, but the knight's persistence told them otherwise as she followed them. Kinomoto anxiously watched out of the little opening between the canvas cover over the tent as she could feel the butterflies in her stomach. She was anxious and she got the feeling that Tomoyo and Syaoran was probably feeling the same. Something just didn't feel right at all and she didn't know just what it was. However, it seemed as if Syaoran nor Eriol had the same exact feeling as her and they were also well verse in their world's magic and foresight. Even now, her dreams have never gone away. To make it worse, it only got clearer each time she saw it. A horrifying dark dragon before the dark thundering sky. Glowing red eyes. Purple and black scales. It towered over the Tokyo Tower of her world and her hometown. It's roar loud enough to remaining ringing in their heads for hours as if an alarm of immediate danger that could not be overcome. Perhaps not in her world. She had told this dream to her friends, Leo, Forrest and, sometimes, even the tacticians whenever they ask what had been troubling her. Each time she described it to them, they only listen to her intently before reassuring her that it should end when they prevented Grima's resurrection. However, she wondered if they were already aware of her reoccurring nightmares. Probably, Nyx had notified them of the problem before she was asked it? In response to her dreams, she trained herself with her cards daily to make sure that she would be prepared to fight against the monster when the time came and they couldn't stop his resurrection. She knew what they had told her over and over again, but she felt that something dark is starting to cover this world in a thick veil of negative, dark presence as if smothering it. Though she was told that all would go well, she feared that danger was approaching and she was terrified of it. After a half day of traveling, they finally reached the outskirts of Plegia, she suddenly felt the eyes of somebody and spun around, but the owner of it wasn't with them in the wagon.

"Kinomoto?" Nina frowned, "What is it?"

Hesitantly, the card mage looked to her with a frown, "I-I think I can sense Eriol's magic."

"Clow, right?"

They look to Syaoran as he frowned, "I think it's coming from that direction."

As he pointed West-South, he added, "It's faint and feels rather far from here. I think we should keep an eye out for anything unusual, then."

Lucina nodded before she raised a brow, "Are all mages in your world able to sense magic?"

Syaoran nodded, "Many of us can. All it needs is some concentration on our part and with experience we can do it more naturally."

"That's incredible." Lucina said with a small grin, "Then, what about those who wields weapons?"

"Well, there are tales in our world, but not many uses blades now from what I know of. Perhaps my mother would know more than I would." He said before a thought came to him, "Wait, that Keroberos and Yue might know something. They've been around our world longer than my mother have."

"However, Kero have fell asleep the last thirty years or so before I found in and the cards in our basement." Kinomoto added with a small smile.

"Speaking of which." Nina said with a sigh, "He's still sleeping in your bag too, huh?"

Kinomoto strained a small smile as Syaoran sighed and shrugged.

After three days and four nights of traveling, it was safe to say that Kinomoto was definitely utterly exhausted from her trip. However, with their meeting with Validar drawing closer, she did her best to keep up with everyone and, with Lucina and Syaoran's help, she was able to pull herself through the journey under the harsh heat of the sun. One thing she knew for certain is that she could get past winning their world's sport's festival with all this traveling and training at this rate. As she quietly giggled upon her little joke, Lucina turned to her with a raised brow, "What's so funny, Kinomoto?"

She shook her head, "Oh, I just remembered one of our school's event back in my world. Once a year, we always have this sports event, where we make up some fun activity involved with exercising and teamwork. It's a really competitive event and is really fun. If I took part in it again with Syaoran, I bet we might be a little stronger than everyone now with all this traveling and training."

Hearing this, Lucina chuckled, "I see your point now. You did say that your world doesn't have as many fighters as we do here. But, don't forget the reason why we've taken part in these intense training. Our goal has always been to protect the people and, to do that, we have to get stronger to face whatever threatens the kingdom and the people. Not for games and competitions. Though, you can take part in them at times. Just don't let that be your purpose for coming this far since it won't take you the rest of the way."

"I understand, Lucina." Kinomoto nodded before looking up, "It's hard to believe that it's been two years since we've been here already."

"Yes…" Lucina nodded.

"Shepherds! Be on your guard!" Frederick's voice called out to them, "We're about to arrive on the castle grounds!"

Hearing this, Lucina turns to Forrest, "Forrest, could you watch over Kinomoto and Syaoran for me? I need to see my Father."

"Of course." He nodded.

As they watched her leave, Syaoran whispered to her, "Sakura, you felt that strong power too, right?"

She nodded, "Me too. It's only been getting darker as time passes. Could it be the Fell Dragon?"

"Perhaps." Syaoran nodded.

Lucina ran up to her father and their allies before she came to a halt upon seeing the massive skull. Just in time, Lissa turned around and saw her niece's stride slow down to cautious steps as Lucina stares upon the massive lizard skull.

"What's wrong, Lucina?" Lissa asked in confusion as some also turns around and saw her.

"That great skull." Lucina said with a frown as she continued cautiously, "I saw it once before when Emmeryn was sentenced to die."

"That's right." Corrin nodded with a grimace, "You and my siblilngs were there when you tried to save your aunt."

Lucina nodded, "Even then it reminded me of… him…"

Her words finally caught everyone's attention as Chrom frowned, "You mean…"

"Yes." Lucina nodded with a grimace, "Grima, the fell dragon."

There was a dry silence as Lucina continued, "A cataclysmic war ushered his return… It's said he fed on the souls of the fallen before turning upon the living… Our first encounter was when he attacked Ylisstol and its castle. Everyone died that night leaving only us to come here to find a solution."

She paused before she slowly added, "Whether these are his true bones or just an effigy, I cannot say. But I know this: we cannot let that monster come back to life."

As she says this, some could already feel the reality of the situation was starting to sink in forcing them into realizing that this was no made-up fantasy story told to children. This was their past and could very well be their future.

"We'll stop him, Lucina." Chrom said solemnly as he nodded, "I promise. The future can be changed. You've proven it already."

He smiled as he continued, "And with all of us together, we can turn the course of history."

Lucina slowly brought up a small smile as she said, "I want to believe that, Father. I want to believe that, more than anything…"

As they continued forward, Reflet whispered to his archer friend, "Do you or your retainers see anything abnormal, Takumi?"

He shook his head, "Well, the only thing abnormal here is how few soldiers they have on duty here. I still think we should just pull back. And wait for Flavia's group."

Reflet shook his head, "I know that you're just being cautious, Takumi, but you know as well as I do now that Chrom wouldn't want that. For now, we need to keep Kinomoto and her friends safe. I doubt Validar wouldn't try to do anything when he learns of what her connection is to this whole situation. Even worse, what if he already knows."

"If he had, then he would've requested her presence."

They looked up and saw the Hoshidan king before them.

"We're arriving at his castle. If he wanted her, all he had to do was request her presence in his castle and kidnap her there." He continued.

"That's right." Robin said firmly, "And, if he does try to come after them, all of us will be there while you and Chrom speak with him. Not to mention, we're already prepared for the worst outcome."

"You're right." Reflet nodded, "Right now his only major concern should be the Fire Emblems."

"I doubt he'd know that we have two Fire Emblems with us right now either." Kamui said with a grin.

Kinomoto stuck close by Forrest's and Cordelia's side as they made their way to the entrance of the throne room. She watched as Chrom, Reflet and Lucina enter the room by themselves as Frerderick remained outside keeping watch of their surroundings in the seemingly empty halls. She watched as words passes along the Shepherds before Nina whispered to her, "Don't look around. Just stay where you are."

She froze before she noticed something grab her wrist. When she looked, she saw that it was Syaoran who nodded quietly. Kinomoto nodded back slowly as she remained close within the Shepherds formation. As time ticked on, she saw Leo speaking with Robin. The tactician said something in return with a strained smile and looked away as Leo raised a brow.

As the minutes ticked by, everyone was standing in wait as their leader and friends speak with the king behind the double doors. Kinomoto was already looking around the castle through the corner of her eyes. She had seen the castle from afar before, but just coming close to it was a new experience for her, even in these horrifying times. Unlike the other castle's, this one had a purple carpet laid out across the floor as yellow rims lined around it. The air was much drier here than it have been in the other castles, but the temperature wasn't as bad as it had been outside. The stone walls were definitely more brownish than the others kingdoms, but that was it. She recalled the words of how Cordelia was the one who struck Gangrel the last blow behind those wooden double doors and how Forrest's cousin snuck in through the back entrance that Henry had shown him that time. All this happened behind those doors and, now, so is their discussion. Suddenly, the doors slammed open as Chrom, Lucina, and Reflet reappeared. All with a discouraging look on their faces.

"Shepherds, pull back!" Chrom's shout brought out the needed results of their discussion as Kinomoto and Syaoran quickly followed Nina. They didn't have the time to look around as much as she held the cards and her staff close to her. Kinomoto saw with wide eyes, Plegian soldiers who suddenly appeared out of nowhere as blasts of purple magic came through the window barely missing everyone by a feet had they not kept hustling. Robin and Reflet quickly paired up some of their friends and brought them up to the front line as they cut down the enemy soldiers. As they quickly passed through the halls soon littered with the bodies of the enemy soldiers, she noticed some very familiar looking garb as they dashed through the halls. She spoke up to her friend, "Syaoran, I think these are Grimleals. They have the garbs."

Syaoran looked to her than nodded, "Got it. Come on. Let's stick close with the others first. Right now, the king's target should be Chrom and Reflet… So, maybe, Robin?"

"That'd probably be the best choice right now." Kinomoto nodded.

Suddenly sound of hooves rushed up before them as they looked up expecting to see an enemy cavalry breaking through their ranks when they noticed a familiar looking blond hair dark knight rushing over to them followed by a red-hair sky knight.

After what seemed like hours of weaving through the enemies and halls, they finally came close to the main hall where the double doors awaited them. There stood a brigand who seemed to be their general. However, despite all the laughing and cursing, he easily fell to Chrom's javelin that he kept on his back. Taking this chance, Chrom shouted, " Almost there! The exit is just-"

Suddenly, he halted in his tracks as he signaled for them to stop as well.

"Chrom?!" Takumi exclaimed in disbelief, "We're in a hurry here…"

"Wait." Chrom looked to them in suspicion, "Do you feel…"

Out of the blue, a flash of light appeared before him as a hand suddenly stuck out before the Exalt.

"Chrom!"

A hand suddenly grabbed the exalt and the Great Lord was pulled back. Suddenly, a purple haze erupted before them followed by a scream. When they all looked up, Robin was lying on the ground unconscious and Validar was before them with a crooked grin, "Run all you like- you can't escape fate. Don't you know that?"

"Robin!" Reflet gasped as he rushed over to his twin.

"Reflet! Watch out!"

Another blast came before them as the mage was pulled back by Kamui.

"But, my sister!" Reflet grimaced.

Out of nowhere, a very familiar looking dark flier appeared out of sky and picked up the younger tactician.

"Aversa!" Reflet snapped in anger.

The white hair woman turned around with a smirk, "Well, now, I'd love to chat with you, but I'm afraid our god wants something to sate his hunger and such an honorable feat can't compete with you. So, don't worry about your standing."

Validar grinned before turning to them with a sharp gaze, "The Fire Emblem. Give it freely, or it will be taken."

"Just try it!" Chrom scowled as he glared at the Plegian king.

The man chuckled, "I won't need to do anything…"

He turned to the other tactician and called to him, "Reflet!"

Suddenly, the tactician clenched his head as his face contorted with pain.

"Reflet?" Chrom looked to him in bewilderment.

"Seize the Emblem and bring it to me." The king continued with a grin.

Gritting his teeth, Reflet struggled out his words, "No… I…"

One step at a time, Reflet made his way to Chrom as Leo shouted, "Damn it! Stop him! Validar has him under his control!"

"What?!" Lucina shouted in disbelief.

It was already too late. With Reflet being the closest to the Exalt, he took the Fire Emblem off Chrom's arm. As Chrom tried to wrestle back the shield, he grimaced with wide eyes, "Reflet… What are you… doing?!"

However, the shield was torn from the exalt in incredible strength before it was thrown to the king who caught it with ease and chuckled as he slipped out a black orb out of thin air then fitted it tightly into the shield's last socket. He grinned upon the sight of the complete form of the shield, "Well done, my child. At last, the Fire Emblem belongs to me! And, with my Gemstones, it is complete! Now, to set the Table and perform the rite…"

Chrom grimaced and rushed over to the king, "Don't you-"

Suddenly, a dark orb came out of nowhere and shot at the ground before them. Chrom halted in his tracks and pulled back slightly as the ground began to move. The stone bricks soon came out of its place and built upon themselves till a human figure of stone stood before them moving. Chrom scowled as he pulled out his blade, "D-Damn you, Validar!"

With one swing of his blade, Chrom split the golem into two as it crumbled into rubbish. However, seeing that the king was gone, he quickly hurried over to Reflet, who was supported by Olivia. He shook his shoulders, "Reflet? Reflet! Snap out of it! Are you all right?"

The man grumbled in pain before he slowly looked up in a slight daze, "Ch-Chrom…?"

His eyes soon fell on the man's arm as his eyes widen in disbelief, "What have I… done?!"

Chrom shook his head with a sigh, "At least, you seem unharmed."

Suddenly, the ground shook as Chrom shouted, "Reflet! We must go!"

"Ch-Chrom, I'm sorry!" Reflet said as he got to his feet with a grimace, "I don't… know what came over me… I'm so sorry!"

"I know you are," Chrom nodded, "But, right now, we need to focus on getting out of here!"

Reflet looked around and, upon seeing the situation and regaining his senses, he nodded, "Understood."

It wasn't till they all escaped the collapsing castle Chrom finally called in an emergency summit and sending out scouts to look for any clues as to where the king and his tactician vanished to. Kinomoto and Syaoran remained close to Lucina as they meeting began with Kero and Spinel being one of the members summoned to the meeting. Reflet, who was finally coming around, said with guilt, "What I did… It's… it's unforgivable."

"Enough of that, Reflet." Chrom said, "Save your energy for helping us track him down."

Reflet only grimaced, "No, I… You must leave me behind. He could use me again… I can't be trusted!"

Kinomoto noticed Elise startled from the raise in the tactician's voice. The man also saw this and nodded apologetically as he continued shaking his head, "This cursed blood in me must somehow give… my father… dominion over me…"

From his words, Kinomoto could understand the tactician's hesitation over mentioning the presence and connection between the villain and himself as Chrom nodded, "But, he never had full control… You can fight it, Reflet. And, if he expects you to blindly obey, that might be the surprise we need."

"Chrom, you…" Reflet frowned with uncertainty, "You put too much faith in me."

"Get back on that horse, Reflet." Frederick said encouragingly, "You can't give up now!"

"But you're not listening!" he argued, "I told you, I'm not-"

"Reflet." Kamui spoke with a frown, "We all trust you and we know what you did wasn't your fault. Furthermore, just because Validar was able to take over you, doesn't mean he could read your every thoughts."

Azura nodded, "There's still a chance. To undo your mistake too."

"Azura is "right. The deed is done." Chrom said, "But you can still try undo the damage. It's not too late!"

Reflet looked between his friends before he slowly nodded, "All right. I'll… I'll try."

"Just do your best, Reflet!" Elise smiled, "I know you can do it!"

"Thank you, Elise." Reflet strained a smile across his face.

"Right." Chrom frowned, "Now, on to more pressing matters."

"Robin…" Hinoka said with a grimace.

Chrom nodded, "If we don't save her soon, I don't want to imagine what they're planning to do with her."

"It's simple." Leo said with a grimace, "Don't you remember what your sister told us, Chrom? Silver hair. Dark robe. They want her as the sacrifice. I knew this and even had my retainer stay with her, but, in the end, this happened."

"Like we said." Xander spoke with a nod, "What's done is done. Right now, we have to bring her back or she will become sacrificed to the Fell Dragon. But, of all people, why Robin?"

They looked to Leo who shook his head, "Even, I don't know."

"What I don't get about that guy is why choose your own daughter as the sacrifice like that?" Takumi said with a frown.

"The answer is to that rather easy." Camilla answered with a frown, "His loyalty and life revolves solely around the Fell Dragon. With his devotion and distance with his blood family, we can already tell his priority is his little god above everything he has."

"That's right." Reflet nodded, "Didn't she said that our mother took my sister and I away from our home and, even after all these years, she was still pursued after her death? Validar must've already planned for us to take part in bringing back the Fell Dragon from the moment we came into this world."

Ryoma frowned, "Then that could only mean you have been given a role in all this as well, Reflet."

The tactician nodded with a grimace, "Without a doubt. Aversa said it as well. How I can't be the one to play her role. But, just what is it? All he's made me done so far is making me his puppet!"

Kinomoto watched the group continue to converse into words she could no longer follow as Syaoran and Eriol easily listened and took part in it as well. However, she noticed something was off as she looked up and saw Lucina staring intently at Reflet with narrowed eyes.

"Lucina?" She whispered to the princess, "Are you all right?"

The princess's eyes open wide before seeing Kinomoto watching her as she shook her head with a smile, "It's nothing."

Despite her words, Kinomoto felt something was off as she slowly nodded in return, "A-All right…"

It was already afternoon when Forrest reported to Leo of Kinomoto's and Syaoran's conditions. With the meeting or summit over, Leo tried to focus on his book once more. However, due to the current dire situation, it was rather difficult for him to focus as he was son forced to shut it with a heavy sigh and placed it back into his bag like before. Instead, he took out his sacred and weapon and took a step outside for the training ground. As he passed the Mess Tent, he noticed Reflet leaving the tent. As he raised a brow, he soon saw Lucina leave not long after he had. Wanting to dismiss it all, he soon saw Lucina turn back causing him to sigh realizing how suspicious his descendant was acting while being relieved that, like her father, she isn't as good as acting either. Due to curiosity, he thought about he reason for the unusual behavior before his eyes widen and he shook his head. Although he knew the dangers of leaving camp alone without his retainers, he carried his tome and hurried out after the two before he suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder.

Reflet walked through the plains of Breakneck Pass. The place where they first met against Gangrel's men and where he first called war against Ylisse. He looked around before he finally found the owner of the footsteps.

"Beg pardon, Reflet." Lucina said, "Might I have a word?"

"Lucina…" he said with a nod, "What is it?"

"It's about my father."

Reflet nodded as she continued, "I have memories of him, you know. From when I was little. Before he… died."

"I see…" Reflet nodded.

"He was courageous, and king, and everyone spoke fondly of him." Lucina smiled upon the memories she must be going through, "People say he was brave right up until the very end. I always yearned to know him better. And, now that I do, I can see that the world will be robbed of a very great man. I… won't allow that to happen."

"I understand." Reflet chuckled, "You love him. We all do."

Lucina shook her head, "Reflet, I… Please, forgive me…"

Out of the blue, the swordswoman drew her sword and aimed it at the man himself. Reflet's eyes widen in surprise as he grimaced, "Lucina?!"

"Stay where you are, Reflet!" Lucina warned as she remained there with her Falchion to him, "I have no choice. I must kill you."

"What?!" Reflet exclaimed in bewilderment, "What madness is this?!"

Lucina grimaced, "In my future, you…"

"You are my father's murderer." Lucina continued as she looked to him with a stern expression.

"No! That's insane!" Reflet shook his head, "Why would I kill Chrom?"

"I was not certain myself." Lucina nodded, "Until now… I knew he had been killed by his closest friend. Having witnessed your bond with him, I doubted it could be so… But today's events make it clear. You are at Validar's mercy and Robin is taken to be a sacrifice. I suspect it's he who forces you to take my father's life, and very soon…"

Reflet nodded, "Lucina, wait."

"If my father is right, then we can change our fates." Lucina said, "If this dark future is to be averted, sacrifices must be made. I am sorry, Reflet! I know this is murder, I… I know that…"

"Lucina, you don't have to-"

"Don't make it harder!" Lucina intercepted his words, "Don't resist, and your death will be swift and painless. If you hold any love for Chrom, then let this be done…"

Reflet thought carefully before he nodded, "… Very well. I forfeit my life."

"Godspeed, Reflet." Lucina said with a shaky nod.

"Enough!"

"Lucina! Stop this!"

The two froze before turning around and saw what they didn't hope to see. Chrom and, surprisingly, Xander running over to them as Leo quickly followed after them. Lucina looked to them as she said, "Father, you don't-"

"Lucina, lower your sword…" Chrom said as he took side glances to the blade pointing at his best friend.

"But, Father-"

"Lower your sword!" Chrom ordered as he looked straight at his future daughter.

Startled, Lucina nodded, "A-All right."

She lowered her blade till it was pointing to the ground before she turned to Chrom hesitantly, "… I can explain."

"There's no need." Chrom shook his head, "You're not the only one who can eavesdrop, though I can see you're also not very good at sneaking out either. Either way, we heard every word. Lucina, I know your heart is in the right place… But, I trust Reflet. You cannot shake my faith in him or in Robin."

"This is not about trust!" Lucina argued back, "He'll be the death of you!"

"That's-!" Leo started but Xander raised a hand for him to stop.

Understanding the situation, Leo nodded as Chrom said, "The three of us have held fast through good times and ill… We swore to be three of a greater whole. You underestimate the strength of those ties, the bonds we share. I believe in them more than some foretold 'destiny.'"

"That is easier to say when you haven't seen it yourself…" Lucina said with a frown.

"Lucina," he said, "aren't out ties stronger here now than they were in your future? You said so yourself. In this flow of time, we are bound tighter than ever, you and I. Not just as father and daughter… But as friends."

Finally, a reassuring smile slowly came over his face, "We can change things- we already have… and we will again."

Hesitantly, Lucina thought for a bit before she finally nodded, "Very well, Father."

She turned to Reflet with a grimace, "I would ask for you forgiveness, Reflet, but I cannot expect it."

"I do forgive you, Lucina." Reflet responded shaking his head, "You needn't speak of it again."

"I pray… That is, I trust the both of you will prove me wrong. And that this future will fall to pieces before your bond ever would."

"It will." Chrom said with a nod, "Now, if this is finally over, let's-"

"Milord!"

The four turned and saw Frederick rushing over to them on his steed as quickly as he could before jumping down before them and bowed with sweat still pouring from his forehead, "The scouts have already found Validar's whereabouts!"

"Where is it?" Chrom said as he focused on the retainer.

"Through a ruins south, the scouts spotted him traveling through whilst carrying our other tactician." Frederick responded firmly, "They suspect that they would continue west from there."

"If that's true, he must be going to use her as a sacrifice as fast as he can and free Grima." Reflet said with a grimace, "Chrom."

The Exalt nodded, "Call the Shepherds. We have to stop him!"

"Understood." Frederick bowed before he jumped back on his steed and rushed back to camp.

Chrom turned to them, "Let's return too."

They nodded and began treading their way through the grass. As he did so, Reflet felt a tap on his shoulder as he turned and saw Leo. He raised a brow as the prince whispered to him, "Also, regarding the conversation, I recommend that you think about yourself first before you make some self-sacrificing decision again, Reflet. Or have you forgotten that you still have a pregnant wife and two children still waiting for you back in the camp. Do you truly believe, that Cordelia would manage a child all on her own during the first few years?"

Reflet grimaced as he slowly nodded, "I was naïve to believe that Cordelia would be fine without me and I could already see what kind of parent I was from Severa's description of me in the future. I understand what you're trying to tell me and I promise, to myself and them, that I won't leave them behind again as I had in Lucina's timeline."

"I see that you've finally changed your mind." Xander nodded firmly, "Had Chrom nor either of us been there, I don't think you would have the time for second thoughts as you do now."

"Right, I apologize for pulling you into our personal problems as well." Reflet said.

"It's nothing to apologize for, Reflet. We were just there at the time and followed you two." Xander replied with a small smile, "It's a good thing we did."

Leo nodded with a sigh, "Now, let's hope Big Sister Camilla nor Cordelia hadn't found out about this, or you probably won't hear the end of it till we reach Validar. Worse? If Camilla tries to make you her wyvern's lunch... Hehe... A-Anyway, don't worry. I'll think of something if the situation arises, though I'm unsure if it will work."

"Considering how close she even values her relation with her retainers for better or worse," Reflet strained a small smile, "I pray this all works out before we get to him again."

Due to the headaches she have been having, Kinomoto decided to take a breather from her shift and rest in her tent. It wasn't till around the afternoon when Morgan and Ophelia came in to wake her up. Together, they entered the wagon with Forrest and Cordelia as they brought her up to date of the news.

"We're going to a ruin again?" Kinomoto said in confusion.

Morgan nodded, "Yeah! We're going to beat up that bad guy and go home with Aunty!"

Kinomoto nodded with a small grin. Even though, the person they are speaking of is her grarndfather, Morgan seemed quite eager in stopping Validar. Suddenly, a wave of pain came through her head as she grimaced in pain and gingerly touched it.

"Kinomoto?" Ophelia called out to her in worry, "Are you all right?"

She nodded, "Yeah… I'm just a little dizzy."

"I'm not surprised."

She looked up and was surprised to see the flying figure, "E-Eriol…?"

They turned and saw Spinel before them followed by Frederick and Lucina. But, before she could say a word, Kinomoto slumped over to Morgan as the other girl struggled to keep her sitting up. Forrest rushed over to check on the mage as the three newcomers rushed in. Frederick and Lucina still doesn't seem to understand the situation as Lucina spoke, "Eriol, what's going on? First, Syaoran, then Sakura."

"The negative energy is trying to enter into their minds." Eriol's voice echoed, "Because mages of our world is sensitive to the presence of magic, negative energy can harm us just as well."

"Do you mean this gloomy and dense atmosphere we're feeling right now?" Cordelia said as her attention came upon the younger woman, "If this is negative energy, I'm worried just how painful it must be for her right now."

"But, all energy should have a source." Forrest said.

"The source can only be from the Fell Dragon." Eriol answered, "He had done the same to me for a couple days before he attacked me."

"Then, could this be a sign of his return?" Frederick questioned with furrowed brow.

"That can't be." Lucina said with a grimace, "But, if Robin is the sacrifice-"

"We should hurry." Eriol spoke urgently, "For now, bring Syaoran here and I'll create a barrier around them till Miss. Kinomoto can make her own. Till then, she must stay in here. It'll protect them from being taken over by the Fell Dragon. Right now, we have to hurry and make sure they don't release him or he could come after both worlds and time."

"I'll bring Syaoran here, then." Frederick said before he rushed out of the wagon.

"I'll go tell Reflet and my father the situation." Lucina said before she hurried after him.

Kinomoto looked around before she noticed something, "Have we stopped?"

Forrest frowned and slowly nodded, "Yes. There's a small commotion going on, but my uncles and aunts are going to check it out. Let's stay inside till it's over. Father came to tell us to stay inside."

"A-all right." Kinomoto nodded.

Cordelia smiled, "Kinomoto, you seem a little tired. You should take a break till we reach the ruins. It could be some time."

She nodded, "A-All right. Thanks!"

It hadn't even been a couple seconds before they could already hear the silent snore coming from the girl. They looked to one another worringly as Forrest grimaced, "I thought something was off with her lately. I should've known to speak with Eriol sooner."

"None of us knew." Cordelia shook her head, "What matters now is that we stop the Fell Dragon, so she won't be influenced by the enemy. I bet it's the same situation with Kero, right now. He also seem to be in a daze lately."

As she said this, there was some words spoken aloud outside incoherently as Frederick appeared with Syaoran on his back. With the help of Nina and Forrest, the three got him off and into the wagon. Cordelia spoke up, "The situation-"

Frederick shook his head, "We're getting close to the ruins, but, even milord believes that something isn't right. We're going to continue forward, but Reflet wants Eriol and these children to remain in the wagon. To make matters worse, it seems even he is demanding this rather than requesting it."

"That just means the matter isn't something small to begin with." Forrest nodded, "He said he went through the same thing, so that means he knows what could happen next."

"That's right." Frederick nodded, "For them to go through and end up like Eriol is no laughing matter as well. Even our best mages said that he was fortunate enough to be accepted into his familiar's body and survive with two souls. If these two fall as well, they'd become lost, I heard."

Cordelia nodded, "Then, I'll stay here with them, if needed. Right, Morgan?"

"Of course, mother!" Morgan grinned widely, "I'll help make sure they stay in the wagon!"

"That would be much appreciated." Frederick said with a curt nod, "Now, I must return back to Chrom's side before we reach the destination."

Saying this, Frederick hurried back to most likely the front leaving them with Eriol still outside in Spinel's body as he conjures a barrier around the wagon itself.

Despite the news, Chrom ordered for the militia to continue forth as soon as he received word that the otherworld mage had finished his barrier and have told him all that would mean that he was an exception to these dark magic drifting about in the air. However, as they finally reached what seems to be a ruin as per the description in the report with a tall tower. They soon saw the numerous amount of Plegian civilian that came with it as they slowly trickled into the direction of the tower. Chrom narrowed his eyes, "All these strange travelers… What's happening here?"

"Let's ask 'em!" Lissa suggested and rushed over to one of the civilian before any could pull her back, "Um, excuse me, sir?"

However, there was strangely no response as Lissa raised a brow and called out to him again, "Sir?"

But, the man did not respond as he muttered something incoherently. After some efforts, the villager finally said something in pieces, "…the appointed… time… to the Dragon's… Table… our prayers… Grima…"

"Riiiight…" Lissa cautiously took a step back as she continued, "I'll just be backing away slowly then…"

Kamui frowned, "Just what is going on here?"

Hinoka frowned, "You don't think they're possessed too?"

"That certainly seems to be the case, but something doesn't seem right." Camilla answered with a suspicious frown.

Leo frowned, "Wait. He said the Dragon's Table. Wasn't that where the Earth Dragons were once sealed, Chrom?"

Before the exalt could answer, Frederick rushed over to them as he shouted, "Sire!"

"Frederick!" Chrom sighed in relief, "Have the scouts returned?"

"Yes, milord, and with grim news." The retainer answered with a frown, "Validay has moved to a great altar to Grima known as the Dragon's Table. What's more, it seems all the Grimleal in Plegia are headed there as well. It's as if they're being drawn by some unseen force…"

Chrom frowned, "An idea what it all means?"

"Who can say, sire?" Frederick shook his head, "They speak only gibberish and plod on as if possessed."

"The cataclysm in Lucina's future…" Chrom muttered under his breath anxiously, "This shows all the signs leading to it."

"Including the dark sky." Elise added as she glanced around in the air to the blacken cloudy sky.

"Damn!" Chrom cursed, "This destiny is a stubborn business…"

"We cannot give up." Lucina shook her head with a frown.

"And we will not." Chrom nodded with certainty, "We make for the Dragon's Table, and quickly! Come, everyone! We must press on and get to the table before he sacrifices Robin! Hurry!"

With Chrom's orders, the group hurried through the crowds of Grimleals pushing the villagers and civilians to the side just so they wouldn't get separated. Kamui and Corrin hurried over to Chrom as the brother asked, "Chrom, what are we going to do about Grima if he does come back?"

"We won't let him." Chrom answered with a grimace, "Not with our future and the lives here at stake. Even Kinomoto and Syaoran need Grima to stay gone so they can be safe to roam about."

Corrin nodded, "Just don't try to imagine the worst coming to life…"

As she muttered this, Reflet pointed to the entrance of the growing tower, "Look! Over there!"

To where he pointed stood two figures they have already come to loathe as Chrom grimaced, "Validar and his tactician…"

YueTian: Hey, guys! Sorry for the late update! I tried really hard to get this up on time, but I was falling behind with my personal work which led me to work on this in the middle of the night and not waking up till the afternoon for three days straight. There was also some other factors to the cause, so it's not just this. By the time, you read this, it will have already been updated with a title! I'm so happy to see that this fanfic survive for a whole year unlike my previous one. Yes, I'm thinking of ending that one soon. Honestly, when I first started this, I was really nervous and had to double check to see if anyone have done this before just so I wasn't the only one with such a 'crazy' idea, but nope! I was the only one and thinking back now, it certainly wasn't as crazy as some of the other fanfics I've accidentally come across (By going all the way to the back or going through crazy pairings. Don't say a word. I was really bored those times!). However, they were still good, just some factors of it make me cringe from the thought of putting them more realistically. Right now, we're really close to the ending of the fanfic sadly, but that doesn't mean that it's over yet! What does that mean? I can't tell you, but you can already use your imagination for the answer. Also, there are some other fanfics I've been working on over the years that I've announced on this story such as "FE: Fates of The World" and "FE: Sky's Fate". Just so, everyone could come see this if they have such a thought, I've put up that some of the characters would be the children in Sky's Fate as the revolving characters while Fates of The World will have only Fe Fates Characters notified! Sadly, this chapter didn't go as long as I wished and I would certainly put more if I could, but it's almost time and I don't want to break a promise that I couldn't keep, so I'll be putting the cut scenes lines and title as soon as possible. Sadly, I wasn't able to put up a side story today, but that doesn't have to be today. So, I get this over with as quickly as I can and put this up as quickly as possible! See you all next time!

Kero: WAIT~! We still haven't had our anniversary conversations!

YueTian: (Speaking *Normally A.K.A As fast as light* with a smile) I'm sorry, Kero. I don't know what an anniversary conversation is and I need to put this up as quickly as I can. Also, just so you know, if you don't wake up soon before that time aka the possible awakening of Grima, you could probably die in the next… Oh~, I don't know~… couple of hours.

Kero: As if-!

YueTian: And that includes Sakura-

Kero: WHAT?! WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME THAT SOONER?!

YueTian: Yup! Well, bye~!