*Major Spoiler Alert*

To see the full true plot of this, either go play FE Fates' DLC Hidden Truths or watch it on youtube!

*Major Spoiler Alert*

The Painful Truth

Once everything as finally starting to settle and organized, Chrom immediately sent his soldiers to certain rooms. Having finished the work themselves, Kamui took a seat on the bed of the room designated for his daughter and his nieces. He had been told that the room belonged to none other than Kinomoto's mother when she was a child, hence the toys, children drawing, and small dresses. Corrin was on the veranda as she looked out to the sky in a daze before Kamui finally looked up from his hand, "What do you think that Mark really could've been our biological father, Corrin?"

"The eyes…" Corrin answered hesitantly before she strained a smile, "You can find surprising things answered by the Voice when you ask her during her naps…"

"And she said that it was the red eyes?" Kamui said with a grimace, "But how could she have known our father?"

"I didn't…" Corrin said with a grimace, "I asked what made her mistaken you for the Silent Dragon and she answered crimson eyes… Thinking back, maybe it should've been better if I had kept my mouth shut…"

"No…" Kamui shook his head, "You were curious about Lady Tiki's mistake. I was too. If you hadn't asked, I would've done so already. But, from what you say, it can't be that our biological father-"

"Kamui. Corrin."

The two looked to the entrance and was surprised to see their eldest brothers at the door. Xander was the first to speak with a strained smile, "If you wish to have a private talk, it's best to always close the door and lock it before you do."

Kamui's eyes widen before he looked to his sister and back to them. This time, Xander said solemnly, "We've decided that it was probably best to tell you everything by now…"

Ryoma nodded, "It's about your father. Your biological father."

As he closed the door, Kamui's eyes widen as Corrin turned to them in surprise, "You knew?"

"Not at first." Ryoma said with a frown, "Father and Queen Mikoto never wanted you to know the truth of your heritage. All I knew was that you were not biologically related to us, but I was the only one who knew. Hinoka, Takumi, and Sakura never knew that you weren't blood related to us. I believe that, at that time, Father never wanted for the two of you to feel left out being from a different man, so he made sure to keep quiet of the truth as did I. For Queen Mikoto, I chose not to question her about your biological father, since it always seems as if she wanted to avoid the subject."

Xander nodded, "I felt that something wasn't right when I realized the unusual difference in the amount of dragon blood within you two in comparison to the Former King Sumeragi and your siblings. So, I questioned King Ryoma while we were still in Valm."

Kamui nodded, "I heard it all from… Mark. He said that we were born in Valla. The day Azura and we were born into the kingdom. Even, if King Sumeragi wasn't our biological father, he cared for us and protected us with his life. To Corrin and I, he is our father. But… Mark said… that we were children of a soldier of Valla. Why did he grinned when Corrin called him Father? And the things about red eyes. It was of why the Silent Dragon and I look like to be mistakened."

There was some silence as Ryoma finally spoke, "Kamui, Corrin. There's something I want to give you two."

"Okay?" Kamui raised a brow and walked over to them as Corrin quickly followed.

Ryoma pulled out an orb from a leather bag and carefully placed it in their hands. Suddenly, the orb shined a bright light engulfing the two as Ryoma said, "This should answer some of your questions…"

"What?!" Kamui grimaced as he shielded himself from the light while holding onto the ball.

Finally, when it died down, they found themselves in none other than Mila's Tree as a familiar looking man stood upon one of the roots with them followed by three other familiar figures. It was Mark and the three retainers still in their younger forms. Mark said to them, "Owain, Inigo, Severa. Are you ready for this?"

"Yes." Owain replied with a firm smile, "My fell hand and I are ready."

"Naturally." Inigo said with a familiar smirk on his face.

Severa sighed as she pushed aside some strand of her silver hair over her shoulder, "Let's get this over with."

Mark smiled, "Then, let us begin."

He opened his mouth as a familiar sound of a dragon rang through the air. Suddenly, a bright light wrapped around the three. When it vanished, Owain's brown hair as blond like his mother's and Severa's hair was a fiery red much like Cordelia's. Inigo's hair however was that of a greyish silver color. Corrin gasped, "The retainers? Could this be when they first like their world?"

Kamui nodded, "It must be. Why else would their appearances change?"

Severa's eyes widen as she grimaced, "Wh-what just happened?! Why did you change the color of my hair?!"

Owain immediately pulled up his sleeve as he shouted, "Huh?! My Brand is gone!"

Being the only seemingly composed guy, Inigo strained a grin as he said, "You've got some powerful magic up your sleeves, Mr. Anankos."

The man nodded, "I thought it wise to alter your appearances before we depart for our destination. Any characteristics that could hint at your true lineages must be kept hidden. The least I can do is lessen the brden you three shall endure for taking on this task."

"Drat…" Severa sighed I disappointment, "I really like the color of my hair."

"Don't worry, Severa. That new color is rather fetching on you!" Inigo said with a chuckle.

Owain grinned, "Heh. You're still as much as a flirt as you ever were. I guess even Anankos doesn't have the power to change that. At least you're consistent. That's one thing that even the war ending didn't affect."

"Anankos…" Kamui's eyes slowly widen before his muttered in disbelief, "Mark was Anankos?! But that can't be?! Did we killed our own father then?"

Corrin placed a hand on his shoulder, "Kamui, let's keep watching for now. I don't think they can hear us."

Kamui shook his head in attempts to clear it as he said, "R-Right… Sorry about that."

"Now that I have altered your appearances, you'll need new clothes and powers." Anankos continued with a small nod, "Finally, the last step will be to create new names for the three of you."

"New names?! You're joking!" Owain's eyes widen in utter shock.

"I am not." Anankos frowned, "I'm afraid abandoning your real names is a necessary precaution."

"So basically we mst hide our true identities in case the worst happens…" Owain thought to himself with a growing smile, "A shadowy warrior of darkness living under false identity- I could get used to that!"

Inigo walked up to Anankos, "Um, Mr. Anankos, since you're having us change our name and appearances… that means this task you're asking of us is incredibly difficult and dangerous. Correct?"

"You are correct." Anankos frowned, "I need you three to travel to another place and time to fight for me. It is a world where fates intertwine. A world of choices and consequences. I truly hope the fates are kind to you there, because if they are not… Then death awaits you all."

"Death?!" Inigo took a step back in surprise.

"But we finally achieved peace here! I can't go dying before I've had time to enjoy it!" Severa argued with a frown.

"She's got a point!" Owain said with a grimace, "Dark missions are my specialty, but risking my life again…"

"I see." Anankos said with a grimace, "I cannot say your reluctance is unexpected. I will not force any of you to go. You have every right to refuse my request."

"So it was optional." Corrin said with a nod.

"Wait! Who said anything about refusing?" Inigo said with a grin.

"Inigo?" Kamui raised a brow.

"Yeah, I never said I wouldn't go." Severa cut in with a nod, "It's just a shame, is all."

"Though I doubt there's much reward in it for us. I will lend you my unholy strength!" Owain added with a smirk on his face.

To their surprise, the man was taken aback, "You agree to my request? I must ask… Why?"

"Well, it's clear you're in a real mess." Owain answered as he shook his head and shrugged his shoulder, "You need us."

Anankos looked to them as he hummed with uncertainty.

"Look. We may be young, but we have tons of experience on the battlefield." Severa reasoned, "And we've all been through a lot. We can tell hen someone really needs help."

Inigo nodded, "It's true. And when someone truly need our help, it's not in our nature to refuse. The stakes are high- that much is clear. We want to help in any way we can. Even if it all turns out to be a lie, We're choosing to believe in you."

Anankos thought to himself carefully before he nodded, "Thank you, young heroes."

Severa sighed, "You sure looked suspicious when we first met, though, covering your face like that. I never thought someone like you would come calling for us at the inn in Chon'sin!"

Owain put on a serious face as he nodded, "And the first thing out of your mouth was, 'Please, save my kingdom!' Even though you wouldn't tell us more, that certainly got our attention."

"Yeah." Inigo strained a smile, "The most we could get out of you was hen and where to meet you. 'If you trust me, follow this map and meet with me on the night of he next full moon.' It was all kinds of mysterious! How could we refuse?"

"I am sorry for keeping you in the dark." The man replied with a small smile.

"Meh, no worries." Severa said with a shrug, "But there's one thing I still don't understand… Why did we have to all this way to another kingdom to get more info?! You realize most people wouln't be able to manage that, right?"

Anankos gave a small laugh, "I am sorry about that too. Still, you all came, nonetheless."

"I suppose being heroes is our birthright." Owain grinned, "Ow maybe we crave the thrill of conquest… the seduction of revelation. No, I think it's just that we can't bear o abandon someone in need. But if we find out you're taking advantage of our heroic nature… I hope you're prepared to face the consequences."

"I understand." Anankos replied solemnly, "I have no intention of deceiving you or taking advantage off your generosity. As heroes who defeated the Fell dragon Grimace, you deserve far better."

"Um, did we tell you about that?" Inigo raised a brow with a nervous grin, "I don't recall telling you about that…"

Anakos grimaced troubled, "Again, I must apologize. Knowing you three come from a desolute future… It pains me to involve you in another war."

"You even know we're from the future?!" Inigo shouted in disbelief, "Just who are you, Mr. Anankos?"

"I…" Anankos bit his lip in hesitation.

Kamui grimaced, "He messed up, didn't he?"

Now, on the edge, Severa grimaced, "Go on! Spit it our already!"

"Sever, get down!" He abruptly shouted.

"Huh?!" The woman quickly ducked just in time to dodge the sword that flew over her head.

The three jumped back as Severa shouted in surprise, "Wh-who is that creep?!"

The familiar transparent figure caused the twins to gasp as Corrin shouted, "What? But, that's…"

"Father." Kamui said with a grimace, "He must've been under the Silent Dragon's control the whole time, but why…"

"No! This cannot be!" Anankos shouted in disbelief, "They must have caught wind of my plans…"

"What are those things?!" Owain shouted in shock, "Zombies? Risen?!"

"No, I don't think so." Inigo shook his head as he drew his blade, "We can sense them, but we can't see them. They clearly intend to kill us. But why?"

Anankos sighed as he said, "I'm afraid the fault is mine."

"What do you mean?" Inigo raised a brow.

"Listen carefully." Anankos said, "Those are warriors from another world. They followed me here. I didn't ant to affect this world anymore than necessary, but-"

"What kind of a world do you live in if there are creepy jerks like those around?!" Severa cut in with a grimace as transparent warriors surrounds them from the other roots.

Anankos struggled his words before he spoke, "I… can't tell you that. Not yet."

"Even if you could, we don't have the time." Owain shouted as he drew his two blades, "We need to defend ourselves! I don't care who they are- we can't let them harm our world!"

"He's right! We can discuss this over a nice cup of tea later." Inigo said with a genuine grin, "And besides, we already said we believe in you. We meant it."

Strangely, the man froze as Severa cuts in with a sigh, "That's sweet and all, but can we start fighting already?! We said we'd take on the job, so let's get to it!"

She turned to Anankos with a stern stare, "But, after this is over, you better answer all of our questions. And I mean all!"

"Yes, of course." Anankos vowed, "You have my word."

Seeing the three rush off to battle, Corrin shook her head, "Anankos… he came to this world to find help? And he's fighting off the Invisible soldiers? I don't get this. Did Mother know?"

Kamui nodded, "There must've been a reason for this. He couldn't tell them the situation or anything else because of the curse. He also didn't want to involve others constantly because he knew of the risks and the dangers that comes with it. But, if he's Anankos, who did we fight against? I just hope the magic continues from here."

Though agreed, Corrin frowned, "But, why didn't the retainers tell us? They usually don't hide things from us for no reason."

Despite this, they knew that the answer wouldn't come to them as quickly. Knowing that this was just an image of the past, they watched the battle as the enemies run past them. However, as they waited the scenery around them begin to shift. This time they were at the base of the tree and the soldiers were all gone. Kamui's eye widen in confusion, "What's going on?"

"All right, mister. A deal's deal." Severa said as she turned to him with a suspicious glare, "Start talking! Who were those freaks anyway? And who, may I ask, are you?!"

"Those freaks?" Corrin frowned in confusion, "Could they have defeated them already?"

"I will tell you all you wish to know, Severa. However…" Anankos said with frown, "I cannot answer your questions until we reach my kingdom."

"Huh?" Severa grimaced, "Why?"

"If I tell you all I know here, I shall vanish from this world." He replied, "There is a curse that protects the information you seek."

"A curse?!" Inigo's eyes widen.

Kamui grimaced, "If it was so simple to speak of the curse, I would've done so from the beginning."

Corrin nodded, "But, why is it that the curse also affects the one who placed it?"

"Yes, I'm afraid so." Anakos confirmed with a grimace as if answering their question.

"…Fine." Owain said with unusual seriousness, "If that's how it is, then let's get moving. We won't know what we're dealing with until we have all the details."

"I am sorry for the secrecy." Anankos apologized, "As an apology, allow me to reward you three in advance. What sorts of things do humans like… Longevity? Eternal beauty? Incomparable wealth?"

Upon the future retainers' surprise as he listed off the possibilities, Corrin said with a sigh, "This does sound like something someone with great powers can grant."

Kamui nodded, "He's given himself away with this, but they don't know about him."

As Inigo and Owain fooled around with that thought like bickering children, Severa snapped at them, "You two are totally missing the point! Those 'rewards' are impossible! Longevity? Incomparable wealth? Who do you think you are- some kind of god or something?"

Anankos strained a faint smiled as he said hesitantly, "Well… I have been called one in the past."

"Huh?!" Inigo's eyes widen, "I… see. But if you have that kind of power, why do you need our help?"

The man grimaced, "That's…"

Upon his silence, Severa hummed to herself, "He probably can't say because of that weird curse he mentioned. All right. Give us the goods, and let's get out of here."

Inigo scratched the back on his neck nervously as he muttered, "I can't rap my head around all this. Longevity sounds nice, but it'll be a long time until we can appreciate it."

"If there's something else you desire, you have only to name it." Anankos explained.

"Actually…"

Before they could reply, Owain spoke up, "Just out of curiosity… Can you brig people back to life? Or is that too much to ask for?"

As he said this, the thought came to the twins of the timeline's past.

"Are you crazy, Owain?!" Severa shouted with a grimace.

"You're not going to like this, Severa." Inigo replied with a frown, "But, I was thinking the same thing. I'm sorry, but I want to know too."

"N-No need to apologize." Severa said with an awkward sigh as she looked away, "I mean, I've thought about it countless times too. If only I could have my real parents back again. Not the ones helped save, but the ones I grew up with…"

Owain nodded firmly and turned to Anankos, "So, Anankos? Can you bring back our loved ones?"

"I am truly sorry. It is not possible to bring the dead back to life." Anankos apologized with a frown, "Such a thing is beyond even my power."

Owain sighed as he took a step back in disappointment, "That's what I thought you'd say."

"Then…" Inigo said in wonder, "What abut restoring a world that's been decimated?"

"What do you mean?" Anankos asked in confusion.

"There's a place we couldn't protect. Our original timeline, to be precise." Inigo explained, "But if it was filled with flowers and plants again… Well, then at least it would look as nice as it did when it was at peace. It may seem small, but it would bring hope. That's not nothing."

"That's not a bad idea." Severa noted with a small nod as she recalls their time, "And I want gravestones too. Gravestones for every person that died in that world. Nice ones."

"Yes." Owain nodded, "It would mean so much to me to make that world beautiful again… and create a proper memorial for all those who were lost. Even if we could never see it with our own eyes… at least we'd know we did something to improve the world we came from."

"Is that really all you want?" Anankos asked with a troubled look, "That means you'll be risking your lives for a reward you may never see. You'll have no way of knowing I even did what you asked."

"That's true. But it's what I want." Inigo agreed as the others nodded.

Seeing this, the hooded man slowly nodded, "Very well. I shall restore the earth of your hopeless future. And I shall create gravestones for all who died there. And I shall create gravestones for all who died there. As the keeper of ancient knowledge… As ruler of the world when it began… With my power, pure and righteous, I bless the world of these warriors…"

Suddenly, a bright light flashed from the man before he nodded, "It is done. The land is blossoming once more. I have granted your request."

"Thank you. It feels as though a great burden has been lifed." Severa said with a nod.

"It does." Inigo said with a grin, "Thank you, ."

"Sorry for saying you didn't look like you could reward us with much." Owain apologized awkwardly.

Anankos smile, "Haha, do not worry about- Huh?"

"What's wrong?" Owain said.

"I… heard voices." Anankos replied in bewilderment.

"Voices?" Severa said in confusion.

"When I blessed your world… I sensed the prersence of a certain tactician." Anankos said, "I st up a grave for that person those they were closest to. Though their bodies are long gone, I felt it was the right thing to do. And just now… I heard their voices."

Severa's eyes widen as she grimaced, "That could only be…!"

"Yes, it is mot certainly the ones you are thinking of." Anankos replied with a smile.

"So, um… What did they say?" Inigo questioned.

Anankos's grinned slightly wider, "'Thank you.' Over and over again. With joy and with laughter. They also said, 'safe travels.' And one more thing… 'We're alays watching over you, no matter where you are."

As the three muttered quietly to themselves, Anankos then spoke, "Before we journey to my kingdom, I wish to give you something."

He then hands the three each a small orb. Kamui gasped, "That's-!"

"A tiny crystal ball?" Owain raised a brow.

"Listen well." Anankos said, "When you work is done, f you wish to return to your true home… use this, and you may do so."

"What?!" Inigo's eyes widen.

"That crystal has the power to transport you through space and time." Anankos said, "After you complete your mission, you can use it to return here. Or, if you truly desire it, you can return to your own time and world. However, know that it can only be used once."

Severa nodded, "So, if we decide to return to the future, we can never come back here again?"

"Yes." Anankos nodded, "It is taboo for humans to travel through time as it is. "Even I do not have the power to break this rule anymore than I already have. That the god of this world had the power to transport so many of you… leaves me in awe."

However, the moment Owain opened his mouth another topic came flowing through, "I never thought we'd ever be able to go back. But…"

"That would mean leaving everyone here. I couldn't go back without them." Inigo agreed with a grimace.

"But we could visit our parents' graves…" Severa added on the otherside of the conversation, "Leave flowers for them…"

"You need not mke your decision now. Consider your options carefully." Anankos advised, "You may wait to decide until after you complete your mission in my world."

As the three remained silent in thought, Owain finally broke it as he answered, " Yes, let's save the world. Again. As many times as it takes!"

The two looked to him shocked as Inigo called to his friend, "Um, Owain?"

"What are you saying, Owain?!" Severa snapped, "This is no time for theatrics!"

"You're wrong." Owain replied with a smirk, "All we need to think about right now is helping our friend here. There's no point thinking or worrying about the future just yet, right? We have a mission to complete first. Then we can decide what to do. After all, the three of us are going together. We're a team. We'll have plenty of time to think it through and talk things over."

"Owain…" Inigo chuckled as he shook his head, "You are fascinating. You're right, too. Now is not the time to pine over our old world, or to miss our current one. We've already received a better reward than we could have hoped for. So, right now, for Mr. Anankos… Let's join together and focus on the task on hand!"

"Yeah!" Severa finally grinned, "Our parents even gave us their blessing and their thanks. I'll… always cherish that thought. Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go, Anankos! We're counting on you!"

The man smiled under his gray hood, "Thank you, young arrior. I am counting on all of you as well. I shall begin the process of transportation us to my world. Please have patience. It may take some time."

"Ok! I'm ready when you are!" Owain grinned, "Alrighty! We'll be waiting over there."

"Just call us when you're ready!" Severa smiled.

"Understood." Anankos nodded before he suddenly took something out from his pocket, ",,,What's this? Was it… somehow given to me by that tactician?"

"Then I shall accept it with gratitude. This gift will surely come in handy." Anankos nodded, "Yes, it most certainly will."

"What is it?" Corrin frowned as they moved in closer for a look of curiosity only for them to come face to face with Anankos.

The siblings quickly pulled back as Anankos stretched out a hand to where their faces were. Under the hood, though obscure, the glowing red eyes stood out amongst all the other features staring at them. The two held their breath as Anankos frowned in confusion and touched the air till Inigo called out to him, "Is something the matter, Mr. Anankos?"

The man froze and looked to him before shaking his head, "It's nothing."

As the turned around, Anankos muttered, "It must've just been my imagination…"

As he walked off, Corrin whispered breathlessly in shock, "I thought… I thought that he must've spotted us just now. But, did you see that, Brother? His face…"

Kamui grimaced as he slowly nodded, "Ah. He really does look at lot like me. And, his red eyes… Then, we're really related? But, to be related to him… The Silent Dragon…"

Corrin nodded as she looked back to the man called their biological father with worry, "Just what was he doing when mother and our aunt fled Valla? I remember that our brother said ,when their retainers were appointed to them, we were still children, but Mar-… Anankos said that, when mother fled, we were still infants."

Kamui shook his head, "I wish that there was someway for us to get in touch with one another… Then, we'd get our answers."

"Why didn't he fight against himself before the war started?" Corrin nodded, "Was he that tactician that worked alongside with Azura's father?"

"More importantly, why wasn't he there to protect mother?" Kamui said with a grimace, "I know that we can't rewind time and thinking of what the past would've been, but had he been there that day, she probably would've lived…"

His younger twin shook her head, "Maybe, but I heard that mother had known about her death beforehand. Yes, she still came, if it hadn't been her to use her life to save us, it would've been him. But, why wasn't he there that day?"

As the wind blew brushing up leaves from the ground, they soon notice the change of scenery as they looked around in surprise. Corrin gasped, "This is…!"

"Valla." Kamui nodded with a grimace, "At least before we freed it."

There was shouts and remarks coming from behind then as a voice chuckled, "I am not surprised you find my home to be a bit strange."

They turned around and saw Anankos speaking with the three as he smiled.

"Why is it so quiet? Do people really live here?" Severa noted suspiciously.

"No, they do not." Anankos frowned, "Hardly anything dwelling here is alive anymore. Vallite soldiers are the only ones that roam around outdoors."

"Oh, I see." Owain frowned, "Is that what those things were that followed you into our world?"

"Yes." He nodded, "All of the soldiers in this kingdom are reranimated puppets of the dead."

"So they are zombies!" Owain exclaimed before he suddenly grimaced, "I mean… I'm sorry, that was tactless."

Anankos shook his head, "No need to apologize. I'm afraid that's not far from the truth. This was once a prosperous kingdom… Now, it's nothing more than a wasteland."

Inigo nodded, "Mr. Anankos, if I may be so bold… You're essentially a god, correct? Then, why would you bother yourself with saving this dying kingdom? Did you come to us for help because you love this place? If so, I can definitely understand that."

His words brought their attention as the twins looked to the man as well. Anankos answered, "What you say is partially true… and partially untrue."

"What do you mean?" Kamui said only to be jinxed with the silver hair retainer.

Anankos sighed, "To properly answer your question, I must first tell you a story about a dragon."

"A dragon?" Severa said in question.

The twins looked to one another before Anankos answered with a nod, "Yes. It's the tale of the dragon that helped to build this kingdom. This dragon loved humans with all of his heart. So, he gave them knowledge and longevity. He even chose to live among them. He was especially close with a line of great kings whom he spent much time with. But hundreds of years ago, the dragon realized something terrible. His ancient animal instincts were beginning to invade his thoughts. Though he adored this kingdom, he also felt an intense desire to destroy it. Each day, those feelings grew stronger, and his control over them began to wane."

"The Degeneration…" Kamui grimaced, "So, we were right…"

"That sounds familiar." Severa noted, "A friend of ours can turn into a dragon as well. She said sometimes she gets an incredible urge to rampage a bit. Is that what you mean?"

Anankos frowned in thought, "Hmm, perhaps it was something very similar to that. But as the dragon had tremendous power, those urges were also tremendous. He knew someday those urges wold drive him mad, and the thought terrorized him. That is why he lefet an ancient and powerful song with the Vallite king of the time."

"A song?" Inigo's eyes looked to him with great interest, "Interesting. What happened when someone sang the song?"

Narrowing his eyes, Kamui frowned, "Could that be…?"

"Singing this song weakened the power and destructive urges off the dragon." Anankos answered, "However… only those with his same ancient blood could unlock the song's power. That alone was not enough, as a fragment of his Dragonstone was also required. To ensure this world's safety, the dragon increased his blessings of power over time. He bestowed this gift upon each generation of the royal family, and them alone. He did so hoping one day, when the time came, they might be able to stop him. Sadly, the final king in that royal lie was killed before he could sing the song."

Corrin frowned, "This is going along with everything Azura said to us that day…"

"Does that mean…" Owain frowned, "Did the dragon…?"

"Yes." Anankos nodded, "It all started with a single act of rage. The dragon could not contain himself and obliterated an entire forest. Fortunately, no one was killed, but humans still cursed the dragon for the destruction. Believing he had grown dangerous and murderous, they tried to kill him. And that is when the dragon lost himself to a most unfortunate thought… That humans were loathsome things. It was he who had blessed them with such power and prosperity. To turn on their benefactor, their god, and try to destroy the hand that fed… He felt it could only mean one thing."

"This…" Corrin gasped, "Is that what happened?!"

"Gods…" Owain frowned.

"The dragon went into isolation, locking himself away in a remote mountain cave." Aankos continued, "He spent his days detesting mankind and cursing their very existence."

"The poor thig. What an awful situation." Severa pitied as she casted her eyes down, "I feel sorry for him."

"Yes, it's easy to see why the dragon would feel that way." Owain nodded.

"True." Inigo agreed, "After all, the people he tried to help ended up trying to kill him. It's sad."

Anankos struggled a smile as he said, "You are all kind souls. In truth, there were people that said those very things to the dragon."

"Really?" Kamui said with wide eyes.

"The king and his family…" Anankos said, "They along continued to believe in the dragon. They visited him in his isolation countless times and tried to salvage his mind. They tried explaining things to the people as well, but it was no use. The dragon simply wasn't strong enough to believe in humans anymore. In a moment of weakness and madness, he attacked his one true friend."

"No…" Inigo's vovice was the only one audible as the other grimaced.

"Azura's father…" Corrin frowned.

"Killing his friend, the king, was the last straw. Madness overcame him." Anankos grimaced, "Now alone in his insanity, he began to destroy the kingdom he once loved. But before this, in a final moment of clarity and desperation, he tore out his soul. That soul took on the form of a human and began to think and act on its own. That soul… stands before you now."

"What?!" Severa exclaimed.

"Are you serious?!" Owain said.

"So that means you're the dragon who made this land flourish…" Inigo clarified in shock, "And also the one who destroyed it."

"It is so." Anankos nodded with a frown, "The desolation you see is my fault for not being able to suppress my rage. I grew to detest even the people who I cared for the most and who cared for me. I could not believe the king when he said he trusted me still. Everything that happened is because I was weak. And now my entire kingdom is…"

As his voice faltered, Inigo grimaced, "Mr. Anankos…"

"I am sorry." Anankos gritted his teeth, "Please give me a moment to compose myself. Now is not the time for sorrow. I must finish telling you my story."

After a moment of pause, he spoke again, "After breaking free from my former body, I lost all of my memories. I wandered aimlessly for an indeterminable amount of time, lost in shadows. The one who saved me was the Vallite Queen's younger sister, Mikoto."

"Mother?!" Corrin gasped in disbelief.

"That's right…" Kamui said with a grimace, "He did say that mother and Queen Arete fled from Valla together…"

"Over time, she and I fell in love, Eventually, she gave birth to our children." He continued.

"Whoa! Back up!" Owain exclaimed, "You have kids?!"

The man grinned, "I do. They have never known me, nor called me their father though."

Kamui grimaced, "So, he really is…"

"Just before Valla fell to ruin, I finally regained my memories." Anakos continued suddenly, "I told Mikoto everything and did all I could to help her escape this kingdom. She took our children and left, along with her sister, Arete, and her sister's little girl. That was the last time I saw them… Still tiny, helpless babes. They can't possibly remember me."

"But wouldn't Mikoto have told her about you?" Severa said.

"No." Anankos shook his head, "I asked Mikoto to never speak of me to them."

"What?" Corrin grimaced.

"Why?" Severa asked.

"Consider what knowledge like that would do to a child's mind." Anankos said with a grimace, "Knowing your father is to blame for destroying an entire kingdom… I did not wish to burden them with the sins of my past."

"Do you ever regret your decision?" Inigo asked looking to the man, "Wouldn't you like to hear them call you Father one day?"

After a pause, Anankos nodded, "I'd be lying if I said I did not wish for it every day. But in this world, just as in any world, some truths are better left unspoken."

"Oh…" Inigo frowned.

"I fear we have strayed off topic again." Anankos shook his head.

"No!" Corrin shouted.

The man froze as the wind halted. He turned around with jaw agape the two knew that this was no longer a flashback. This time, he really did see them.

"K-Kamui… Corrin…" the man muttered in disbelief, "How did you-?"

Kamui held up the orb that still laid in his palm, "Ryoma sent us here."

The man didn't respond as he saw the orb that the Hoshidan king had given his step-siblings. As he was silent, Kamui spoke, "Even after your dragon body was gone, why didn't you choose to tell us the truth? You had weeks during our journey in Valm."

Anankos pursed his lips before he finally spoke, "Would you be able to get by knowing that not only did you destroyed the dragon form of your father, but also that the one who destroyed the kingdom was your own father?"

Corrin frowned, "That body wasn't you. You're not the one who laid the full destruction on Valla. You have no control over yourself, but you did everything in your power to stop it. That's what matters to us."

Kamui nodded with a smile, "You did try to take responsibility for your actions by correcting it. That's all that matters to us. You are who the real Anankos is. The body isn't you. It only acted upon pure impulse, but you didn't let it take over you. That's why you separated yourself from your body, right? As a last effort to try and save the kingdom that you love. You said it yourself. Before you let rage take over you, you tore yourself from the body that was affected by the Degeneration. You may not be fully responsible for what happened later, but you took your responsibility as far as to go to Chrom's time and find help. Isn't that enough to prove that you really cared about the kingdom. You even said that it was hard to bring so many people to another time, but you still did it."

Corrin grinned, "If mother was here, she'd probably tell you the same. She made sure to keep her promise till the very end too. Never told a soul of you or what really happened that led you to this situation. Even after your body brought her back as a puppet. Not to us, not to our step-siblings, nor Ryoma. I don't believe that Former King Sumeragi knew either."

"Mikoto…" Anankos slowly struggled a smile and nodded, "I know. King Ryoma told me when he was here. Curious. He also said those same words and even lectured me as well in the same matter. Your siblings were no exceptions, hehe… I'm glad to see that your families cared for you as much regardless of seeing the truth…"

"Wait, what?" Corrin's eyes widen, "So, it wasn't just us here?"

Anankos chuckled as he answered, "The current Nohrian King. The first Nohrian princess and the second Nohrian prince. Even Prince Takumi was here as well. He was a strict young man for his age. But, each and everyone all said the same thing when they got here."

As he said this, he finally sighed and waved a hand as the background and the three young retainers vanished. Now, they were standing on a lake in Valla. Looking around, Kamui recognized the place rather well, "The castle of Valla…"

Anankos grinned, "I believed that after our encounter at Naga's altar, it would be the final time I would see you again. I should've known that they would go and send you to me through my message."

As he took his hood down, they could not only see the long blue hair, but the crimson red eyes, pointy ears of a manakete, and a face much like the Vallite King. They were taken aback at first before Kamui chuckled, "So, it really was you who saved Ahna that day."

The man grinned, "Yes. But, it wasn't just myself. The uncorrupted King Garon and Former King Sumeragi was there as well. Basilio too."

"Basilio?!" Corrin's eyes widen, "Then, he-!"

"Don't put blame on him, please." Anankos strained a smile, "I requested him to keep the truth a secret."

Kamui nodded with a grin, "Neither do we intend to, Father."

The man froze in silence before a small smile formed on his lips and his struggled a laugh, "It's hard to believe that, after all that's happened, I'd still get the chance to hear you call me that."

Corrin giggled, "After being raised by a king and eight siblings from two different families but still learn that you aren't blood related to neither, I wonder which is stranger?"

From her words, laughter came as they thought of their current situation within their family relations. Anankos sighed before turning to them and said after clearing his throat nervously, "My apologies… for forbidding you two from ever knowing the truth of your heritage, Kamui, Corrin. And, to put you in such dangers throughout your childhood. After I leave this world, I still have to apologize to your mother as well… for forcing her to keep everything a secret. It must've been very hard on her."

Kamui smiled, "We already forgive you after hearing the truth, Father, and, knowing mother, she would forgive you without a second thought."

Anankos nodded with a chuckle, "She would, wouldn't she? She's always been trusting and straightforward for as long as I remember."

After a couple seconds, Corrin slowly spoke, "Did… How did Fa- King Sumeragi react when he saw you? Did he know?"

Anankos nodded solemnly, "He knew… And, he forgave me for everything surprisingly. The three of us had a lot to negotiate over when we were in Valm. As part of a powerful dragon, the poison didn't have much affect on me, Though I bled, the kings found me a healer and healed me before I awoken two days later. It gave us time to speak of matters personal and general."

After a pause, he continued, "After I heard what happened the day you two were kidnapped to Nohr, I was shocked to hear that… I thought that Hoshido would be the safest place for the two of you knowing that the kingdom was not affected by my body, but I never thought that possibility that you would be kidnapped to Nohr. King Sumeragi filled me in on everything that happened on that day. I'm glad to hear that you were taken in and cared for as the man's children, regardless of your hidden heritage. But, had I known that my body would plot such a plan before we separated completely, I'd have stepped in and tried to stop it from occurring."

"That's what I wanted to know about just now." Corrin nodded, "What happened? Knowing who you are now, it's strange how you weren't there before nor after. You really do care about us to even keep all of this silent for our safety."

Anankos nodded with a grimace, "The day I discovered this was when I had gone in search of your siblings' retainers and returned. He knew of your heritage, which was why he chose to kidnap the two of you that day when he heard that my children would be the one to stop him."

"Us?" Kamui's eyes widen, "How could you have known?"

"I have the power to foresee events, Kamui." Anankos answered with a grin, "I saw the two of you bring him down with your own hands. I wasn't certain if it had been the two of you, but red eyes and pointy ears… I could only suspect that it would be you two. However, what I didn't know was that, even though I planned all my movements, my body was still connected to me, so he knew what I was planning. Thus, he kidnapped the two of you and planned to turn you into his puppets."

"But, he failed." Corrin said, "That day at the Bottomless Canyon, we were separated from everyone when his underling attempted to kill us. We survived that attack unscathed by help from a friend and Kaze and Rinkah found us shortly after. We were brought back to Hoshido afterwards and told the truth."

Kamui nodded, "However, we didn't believe it at first because we were brainwashed by the former Nohrian king into thinking that we were his children. We were locked away in a tower for years believing that this was due to poor health and for us to grow stronger. But, the truth was rather shocking when we heard of it. Our memories didn't return until the moment mother jumped in to save us from the Silent Dragon's attack at a public announcement. But, by then, mother was already dying. Even, Sakura was unable to heal her at the time."

"I see." Anankos said with a grimace.

"Still." Kamui shook his head, "I don't understand why was Laslow and his friends in Nohr? We were in Hoshido, right?"

"When I heard that you were kidnapped to Nohr," Anankos began, "We were ambushed by someone manipulated under my dragon form's power. To save them, I gave them their final order and teleported them to Nohr. After that, the ambush claimed my life."

Kamui's eyes widen, "That's right! Laslow told us that before… You told them to become Nohrian retainers."

Anankos nodded, "All so, they could ensure your safety."

Corrin struggled a smile as she said, "I suppose there wasn't enough time to give them our names was there? They spent years in Nohr as retainers before we left Nohr. They only knew that it was us after we left, but stayed in Nohr because they knew that we were safe in Hoshido."

Anankos smiled, "That's good news. I regret for the difficulty, but, at the very least, they found the two of you."

Kamui nodded before he said sternly, "Father, about Grima…"

The man nodded with a grimace, "I never thought he would escape death and take my body and powers. The only thing that can fight back against the powers he stole is the Fire Emblem and the song I created."

"That song." Kamui said with a frown, "Could it be…"

"I believe that Queen Arete and her child would know it." Anankos answered, "Arete was the last to know of the lyrics to the song."

"And now, so does two more." Kamui said with a grimace.

"Two?" Anankos said with a frown, "Was it not just Azura?"

Kamui shook his head, "Azura and I have another child, Father. The elder one."

His eyes widen as he recalled his meeting with his granddaughter, "Shigure."

Corrin nodded, "He's inherited his mother's talent for singing and has been able to sing the song with no errors according to Azura."

"What of my dragonstone?" Anankos questioned.

"Well…" Kamui frowned, "What does your stone look like?"

The older dragon frowned, "A tear drop shaped stone protected in a decorative gold. On the surface, it's seen as any regular pendant, but, in truth, it's a dragon stone with my powers incased in it."

"What?!" Kamui's eyes widen, "Father, that's Azura's pendant you're describing!"

Corrin nodded quickly, "After Queen Arete's death, Azura inherited her pendant and she's had that with her ever since. Father, Azura is thinking of using the power in it to stop your powers from being used by Grima, but she told us that it could cost her her life."

"That's not good." Anankos grimaced, "I had hoped it wasn't true. Though only Valla's royal family can use it and sing the song, overusing the power can cause an unspeakable outcome. She must not use the pendant, no matter what! Queen Arete has done a lot for me while I had lost my memories. I can't just let her daughter leave this world as well."

"But, what should we do?" Corrin questioned, "We've done whatever research we could and our friends have searched through many books in their time as well. All we know was that she disposed of the pendant four years after the war. There wasn't much else."

"I should be able to figure out something…" Anankos muttered with a frown, "I was the one who created the pendant and the song. I know their nature, so there must be a way to either go around this or avoid using the pendant at all."

Corrin grimaced, "Can't you come to the world we're currently in and help us stop Grima?"

Kamui nodded, "When you came to save me and Kinomoto, you attacked Grima and the damage that dealt him was more effective than our weapons."

Anankos shook his head, "That's not possible, because I was also brought back by Grima. When this is over, I will also disappear. If not for the fact that I was also from the divine dragon tribe, I would've been fighting against you and your friends by now."

"You're a Divine Dragon, Father?!" Kamui's eyes widen, "That'd explain why Tiki knew of you so well."

Corrin nodded, "She did say that you were her tutor for a while."

Anankos strained a smile, "True. But, fighting against Grima won't be easy for Lady Tiki either. She can't do it by herself nor can she kill it."

Kamui grimaced, "This… This is going to be a difficult problem to solve, then…"

With a irritated frown, Anankos nodded solemnly, "Yes, my son. Yes, it is…"

It was dark in her dream. As she looked around, she saw that she was no longer in her dream realm, but in a dream she often experience in the past that is defined as a prophetic dream. Though she could see her magic circle under her feet, she could also see that she was still in the white dress and gold decorations. She looked around only to find herself in her home. Her true home. Tomoeda town. She as she looked out the window from afar, she could see the afternoon sun peeping out from the houses away from hers. She knew that she was in a dream despite the vivid details of her room. As she walked out and explored her home calling out for anyone that would be there, she found that her home was terrifyingly silent and unusual. Nobody was home and there was dust collecting in the was unusual considering that she's in her home and her father should be here, but when she checked on the calendar of everyone's schedule, she could still see her handwriting and her father's stating that he would be going to work that evening. However, the date was about a week or to ago from what she could remember from her diary. It wasn't hard to recall the day she disappeared from her world as it was also the day they had a festival at school. How did she knew that it's been nearly over a week since she vanished? Her electric alarm clock gave her all the information she needed to know and she knew it's been more than over two weeks since she vanished without a trace. Her father wasn't home and she found that to be very strange. As she made her way to the front door, something pull on one of her sashes as she turned around and saw someone very familiar, "Hope?"

The girl nodded as she carefully spoke, "Mistress, it's too dangerous for you to be outside. The darkness will get you. You have to stay indoors."

As she said this, cards came flying through the house and appeared before her. Kinomoto's eyes widen, "The cards…"

Suddenly, everything came back to her. Kinomoto had been waiting outside of the Dragon's Table with Forrest and the others in the wagon. That was till her brother appeared outside of the wagon and said, "Tomoyo. Forrest. The healers are asking for assistance in the clinic tent. Somebody twisted an ankle really badly in the previous battle, but doesn't want to get treatment. Maribelle and Brady are having a hard time getting him down for healing."

"Oh!" Tomoyo nodded in surprise, "All right! We'll be right there!"

As the girl quickly rushed out of the wagon, Forrest's eyes widen as he reached out to her, "Tomoyo, no!"

"Huh?"

Suddenly, a hand grabbed the girls hand as what was the figure of her brother suddenly turned into that of her friend. However, without much thought, Kinomoto jumped out of the wagon as soon as she heard her best friend's scream. However, the moment she was out of the wagon, the figure tossed Tomoyo into the sand and grabbed Kinomoto's arm. She was spun around before she felt a sharp pain in the back of her neck. From there, everything went black as an incoherent voice shouted in her ears.

She had been knocked out. Kinomoto knew that quite well, and the only person that would want her now would be the Fell Dragon. Knowing that she was the strongest magician, he had come for her and succeeded in getting her. But, where was she now? This certainly isn't where Plegia is. It as clearly her own home. The beige walls and white rail stairs. Smooth wooden floors and the furnishing. Everything was as she remembered. Kinomoto frowned, "Where am I?"

"Between dreams and reality." Hope answered.

"Between dreams and reality?" Kinomoto repeated as Hope confirmed her question with a nod.

"After Grima took you, we took your body and sealed it in a place with the most sacred pure energy in this place, then we transferred your mind to where you are the most comfortable at." Hope explained with a small smile, "We didn't want mistress to be harmed by the monster and so we did everythin in our power to protect you. He still has a hold of you in the real world through a string, but we've already hide you and your powers."

Hearing this, Kinomoto carefully pieced everything together before she had a small smile of her lips as well and bowed gratefully, "I understand the situation now. Thank you, everyone! It mustn't have been easy for you to go so far in protecting me. So, I really am grateful for everything you've done for me!"

Flustered, Hope shook her head as the cards spun about them, "No! No! You are our mistress and, to all of us, you mean a lot to everyone. We should be the ones grateful for having you as our mistress."

"That's right."

"Eh?" Kinomoto looked up and saw Light and her sister, Dark, before her.

The pale woman continued, "You have done well as our mistress, Sakura Kinomoto. So, from here, let us protect you."

Dark spoke, "Your allies are here in this realm as well. We shall guide them to free you, young mistress."

"Huh?! Chrom and the royal siblings are all here too?!" Kinomoto's eyes widen upon disbelief but it was all confirmed once more as Light nodded.

"That's right, mistress." Light answered, "But stay here for now, Shield has created a barrier around your home. Sadly, we've used your magic to enact this, young mistress, but we believe that they should come and save you soon."

Kinomoto nodded, "I understand. Thank you very much!"

As she looked around the living room, Light chuckled softly, "There's no need for physical meals, young mistress. We do appreciate your kind thoughts, though."

Hope nodded, "It would probably be better if you have rested enough or our friends and I will fear that you should collapse in the near future from fatigue."

Kinomoto then recalled Kero's lesson from when she started becoming the real owners of the cards. Her cards feeds on her magic to remain alive. Without her powers, each one of them can slowly disappear and become normal cards. Without warmth or life in them. She nodded with a smile, "I understand. I know you probably got things under control and I might not be as knowledgeable as Kero, but please let me know when you need help for something. I promise that I'll do everything I can to help you too!"

Hearing this, the card spirits smiled softly before a thought suddenly came to her, "Speaking of Kero… Is he all right? He's still in camp when I last saw him…"

In the elegant children's room, a ball of light suddenly appeared in thin air as Ryoma looked up from his seat by a small table and said firmly, "They're back…"

Xander nodded as he walked back inside from the veranda with Hinoka as he spoke, "Now, the question is did the man finally tell them everything..."

Elise looked down to the ground in worry, "You don't think that… they'll feel really terrible knowing what we all did, right?"

Camilla patted her sister's shoulders with a forced smile, "Let's see. Knowing them though, they'll pull through…"

Hinoka grimaced, "I still think it was a horrible idea to keep it all from them though… Even if it was because he cared…"

Takumi pursed his teeth in anger before he turned his head away, "He could've just told us while we were in Valm…"

Finally, two familiar figures appeared around the orb as the drifted to the ground. The two figures landed on their feet as the orb's light slowly faded. The twins scanned their surroundings before Corrin struggled a smile, "We're… back?"

Suddenly, Elise and Sakura dove in and tackle hugged the two to the ground much to their surprise as Kamui gasped, "Wha-?! You as well, Sakura? You've gotten a lot stronger."

Corrin giggled, "Just what have you been teaching our sister, Elise?"

However, the pale red hair girl looked to the two in tears, "Y-You're not… mad?"

"About what?" Corrin said curiously.

"That we knew the truth before you did!" Elise said with tears streaming down her cheeks, "We're really sorry! We heard everything while our Big brothers were having a meeting and… and…"

Kamui strained a smile, "We're not mad. Seriously, Elise. We're not."

As they got to their feet, he continued, "But, it certainly was quite an unexpected shock."

"Not a really good one either." Corrin nodded with a strained look on her face.

"So… have you spoke with him?" Azura questioned as she walked over before them from the bed, "With your biological father?"

After a moment of silence, they nodded.

"We did." Kamui nodded with a small smile.

"Oh, what was your dad like?" Elise asked with curiously.

"Elise!" Leo quietly scolded, "You shouldn't be-"

"It's fine, Leo." Kamui grinned wider, "He was a very kind man, who cares a lot for the land and the people who lives on it."

Corrin gave a weak chuckle as she finished, "But, I think he ponders on things a little too much and worries a lot. I can see how he and mother got along in the past."

Ryoma nodded, "When I saw everything, I realized it as well. He was just like a normal man with flaws like any other people."

Xander agreed solemnly, "He has his worries, but is too hesitant to decide on take which course of action. His last course of action in our time was one of his best as well. To put his children's safety before himself."

Camilla nodded firmly, "It's a good thing he did. Nohr back during King Garon's rule was no longer a safe place for children such as you. Sending you to the Northern Fort and keeping you there was better than putting you two into the battle field with us. If our retainers was first brought here for your safety, then that makes me feel better knowing that you were under safe hands regardless if we were there or not."

Leo sighed, "Still, thinking too much really is the problem. It's good to be cautious, but being too cautious can be a big set back when you're in his shoes…"

Takumi grumbled, "He knew all along that we would defeat him, but can't he have at least told us his side of the situation while we were at Valm?"

"You're still going on about that, Takumi?" Hinoka strained a smile as she looks to her little brother.

"Kamui. Corrin." Ryoma said, "After seeing all that, what do you think of the man?"

Kamui nodded, "Even despite his mistakes and his flaws, he was still a man doing his duty as a ruler who loved the people and as a parent who loves his children. It's unusual to see that we would have another parent who left the world protecting us and I can't say that it was right to have defeated him without knowing his side of the situation. However, that wasn't a possibility and all that was left of him was nothing but a shell. Defeating his body may have been the only right choice we've ever had back then and I still think so now."

Corrin added, "A ruler trying to correct his mistakes and make up for his shortcomings, as well as a father doing everything he can with only his family in mind."

Xander slowly nodded, "It's difficult balancing everything you are responsible for and everything that you love. Anankos, however, was at his end trying to balance both at once."

Kamui said solemnly, "I think he knew that as well, which was why he had such a hard time. He really did care for the people and his family, but, because he couldn't trust the people anymore, he was already falling apart."

Corrin nodded, "It's a sad tale with a sad ending, but I believe this was what he wanted in the end. To be free from his suffering. I just wish that he was here to help us fight against Grima."

"True." Ryoma concurred, "But, he's bound to our world just as our father. What we can do now is stop the Fell Dragon and free them."

"As for that matter." Xander spoke up, "Have you found anything that would help Azura? If what Anankos said was true in the past, he was the creator of the song Azura sings today, correct?"

"What?!" Kamui's eyes widen before looking to his twin and back, "How did you…?"

"They knew because King Ryoma caught Chrom and our friends helping you." Leo groaned, "Then, when Xander told me, I had to confess to knowing it as well. Sorry, Kamui."

Azura strained a smile, "It's not what we hoped, but it had the best formation in the end."

Kamui let out a deep breath and slowly nodded, "You're right. It was rather cruel of us to keep it a secret from our siblings. My apologies."

Elise jumped with cheer, "Hey! At least, we all get to pitch into help now!"

Hinoka grinned, "It's all right. You and Azura are our siblings, regardless of blood. It's only natural that we help one another!"

"Well said, Hinoka." Camilla grinned, "It was cruel to leave your sister out of such a dire problem. If you had just told me, I'd be happy to go out and find everything I can about it until we have a solution, dears. Just please, don't leave you loving sister out of it again."

The two, and Azura, nearly jumped when their sister suddenly dove in for another overbearing bear hug in her tight arms. Still, the three could only chuckle and giggle during it all. When she finally let go, Kamui spoke up with a strained smile, "Well, I can't say that there was a solution, but it's safe to say that we know a little more about the pendant now."

Corrin nodded, "Our biological father told us that he was also the one who created the pendant Azura has around her neck. The stone came from a part of his dragonstone, which is why it's so powerful. Only those descended from Valla's royal bloodline can tap into its powers."

Azura's eyes widen, "So, that's it."

"Yes. You were also right when you said that overusing the power can result badly in the end." Kamui frowned, "When using the abilities, the pendant requires the life force of the wielder who sings the song he created. It was used to prevent him from going mad, but, in the end, that wasn't enough. However, anymore would only endanger the singer. Your energy can be restored through rest, but you can't overdo it or the consequences are as we know."

Ryoma nodded, "Does he know anyway to save Azura and stop Grima from using anymore of his powers?"

They grimaced as Corrin shook her head, "No. He's thinking of one as we speak. He said that, because he created them and knows their nature, he should be able to come up with something. That's why…"

Kamui lifted the orb in his palm as they gasped.

"It's black!" Leo grimaced.

"What's going on?" Takumi turned to them, "Why is it like this?"

"Though we can still use it," Kamui said with a grimace, "he'll keep himself in the orb until he can come up with something. Until then, he placed a barrier in the orb to keep Grima from trying to reach his mind through his powers just as the Silent Dragon had in the past."

Hinoka sighed, "Why can't we just work together to think of an answer? He doesn't have to shut himself from us to think of one."

"You don't think that he's still suspicious of humans, is he?" Sakura spoke up timidly.

Kamui shook his head, "I don't know. But, I believe that he's trying his best to come up with something. I just hope he doesn't try to sacrifice himself again without asking us for help."

"He does have a lot of trouble on his mind." Corrin nodded, "Still, he is driven to solve this before the time is up."

Kamui turned to Azura, "Azura, Anankos asked that you cease any use of the pendant till he comes up with something."

"Really?" Camilla raised a brow, "At least he cares for his daughter-in-law."

Corrin strained a smile, "It seems he really want to help, not just because that she's part of his family, but also because he really respects Queen Arete for aiding him while he lost his memories."

"He knew my mother?" Azura questioned, "That's right. He was with Former Queen Mikoto, so he must've met my mother in the past while she stilled ruled over Valla."

"That's right." Kamui nodded, "As for the current situation, he said something surprising…"

"What is it?" Takumi raised a brow.

Kamui frowned before he asked, "Xander, Takumi… Did Anankos ever told you anything during his confession to his actions before he vanished? Anything about our family?"

As they raised a brow, Corrin answered, "You see… He said that when the Silent Dragon took over, he created a child of his own through the powers to do his work. Anankos said that the child should've left to find us after he died because she chose to stop working under the Silent Dragon, but for our biological father. He said that he took her under his wing the last moment as his child due to the circumstances. So, we have an elder sibling before us."

Amongst the shocked looks, their eyes widen as Xander thought carefully before he answered, "He did. Before he vanished, he told us that you have a big sister. We were asked to keep it a secret due to her circumstances, most likely, after he passed."

"There is more?" Corrin's eyes widen, "But, then we have a sister?!"

"He told us that we should look for her for help if we are in need of a place to set camp." Kamui explained.

Takumi groaned as he muttered, "Which we already did… Geez, I can't believe that we forgot to tell you this!"

Upon looks of confusion, Xander explained, "I'm afraid that I'll first have to explain a little about her, since I saw everything to his final moments. Kamui, Corrin, your sister was the one who chased after your father and our retainers throughout Valla back then. She was also the one who set the last ambush against Anankos, but she wasn't the one who dealt the last blow. That was the silent dragon who did that. She didn't have the heart to do that because he accepted her as one of his own child before he died. Kamui, Corrin, listen. She choose to pay the price to be given the power to protect you two."

"A price?" Leo narrowed his eyes.

Xander nodded, "In order to be granted the power to protect you, she would give up her right to tell you that she is your sister herself for the power the Astral Dragon, Moro, would give her."

"Moro!" Kamui's eyes widen, "But that's-!"

"Lilith!" Corrin gasped in surprise, "She's the only one who can contact him! Can it really be her all this time?"

Leo's eyes widen, "I can't believe it! And, all this time, I thought it was suspicious who she suddenly appeared like that. To think it was like this…"

Xander nodded, "She stayed with them to protect them, but never told anyone that she was their elder sister."

Hinoka frowned, "Well, the problem is where is she now? We've searched all over the future and didn't even come across her once. She's still a dragon, right? But, we haven't come across any that isn't just a manakete."

"No." Kamui shook his head, "We didn't find her there, but what about here? It's unlikely, but it's still a possibility. We've done this before and it worked."

Corrin nodded, "It's a long shot, but we should be able to come across her here. We just got to hope that she either finds her way to us or we find her."

As they nodded, Elise spoke up, "Then, umm… does that mean we get another sister?"

"Elise!" Leo scolded louder this time with blushed cheeks.

"Actually…" Sakura spoke up timidly, "I-I-I-I was thinking the same thing, b-but I don't really know if that's how things work. S-so…"

As Leo's ears were now red and Takumi could only cover his eyes with a sigh, the elder siblings, including Kamui and Corrin, burst into laughter. Camilla placed a hand on the confused Elise's shoulder as she spoke gently, "It's not that simple, but, if you wish so, you could ask her when we find her again. I'm sure that she wouldn't mind, but remember not to overwhelm her, all right?"

Elise's eyes glittered before grabbing Sakura's hands and spinning around chanting, "We're going to have another sibling! Yay! I really hope she says yes!"

The Hoshidan princess was barely hanging on as Leo called out to his sister with worry, "Elise! Let Princess Sakura go! You're going to make her trip soon if you don't!"

"Aw…" she whined, "Can't we play for a bit? She's always been with you all the time, Leo."

"Wha-?!"

As Leo sighed and plopped down on the edge of the bed, Takumi groaned, "And here we go again…"

Seeing the long-lost antics of the younger siblings, Kamui could only chuckle as herestrain further laughter. He finally looked out the veranda entrance to see that the sun was already setting across the small mountain peaks as the thought of Lilith being his actual sister played in his mind as did the same occur with his twin while watching the four argue about.

Outside of the room, Chrom and his tacticians smiled as Chrom whispered, "I'm glad that everything worked out in the end. I was worried that something had happened ever since we arrived in this world. Thank you, Kaze and Saizo, for letting us through."

Though one was silent, the green ninja just smiled quietly before they were soon led away from the door guarded by the tactician's time-traveling daughter and Lissa's time-traveling son.

After borrowing the kitchen and Toya back on his feet, the man showed them how to operate their world's technology with the stove and the oven. Since it had been a while, they were able to use their own resources to make their meal for the night consisting of freshly baked bread and bear stew. Though insisted by Chrom, Toya refused to bother his relative any further feeling the awkward air between the two relatives. Tomoyo's mother had gone to talk with her daughter knowing the close relationship she has with Kinomoto and wanted to comfort her as she stayed in her mother's room. Masaki offered his dining room and the garden for them to settle down with their meal. By the end of it all, the garden, kitchen and dining hall was cleaned and dusted thoroughly by their only maids, butler, and Frederick, of course. As Chrom and the leader planned their next course of action with Masaki's granddaughter, everyone had began to check up on their supplies and equipments once more. Doing their utmost to be prepared for any situations and changes that could occur tomorrow. There was many thing to take into account that night. Kinomoto's safety, finding a way to wake up Syaoran, and to put an end to the fell dragon so they could all return to their respective homes.

Chrom walked through the halls as he made his way back to his room after the meeting and helping Keaton return to his family's room. There was also some incidents with one of Elise's retainers, but it seems his son, Percy, have gotten the handle of things for them. It was a relief that there was enough space for all of them that night. Though they would have to worry about where to camp in the future, they would have to rest for now and think of that another day.

"Are you sure that it's safe for Chrom to keep it with him then, Lady Tiki?"

Chrom looked up in surprise as he saw the hall turn to a corner to the left.

"There is no need for further worries." Tiki's voice answered, "I plan to speak with him tomorrow at morn. For his safety and Mar-Mar's future descendants. I want him to know."

Chrom raised a brow as he made his way over and turn to the corner, "Lady Tiki? Prince Leo? Is something the matter?"

The two jumped in surprise as Tiki turned around and nodded, "Chrom, you came at the right time. May I speak with you tomorrow of something about the Fire Emblem? It'd be best for you to know before more occurs in the future."

Chrom raised a brow, but nodded, "Okay? I don't know what's going on. But, I'm always ready if you ever wish to speak with me, Leo, Lady Tiki."

"Thank you, Chrom." The Voice smiled as she then began to leave.

Chrom looked to Leo with a sigh before he said, "I don't know what's going on with your conversation about me Prince Leo. However, I won't ask what it is any further. But, just let me know if you wish to speak with me. Perhaps, I can be of some help if you need it."

Leo thought for a bit before he slowly nodded with a strained smile, "Thank you, Chrom. My apologies for speaking about you behind your back…"

Chrom smiled, "It's all right, Prince Leo. It's getting late and we need the energy before our travels into this new world. You should get some sleep. We can think of something regarding the wyverns tomorrow."

"I understand." Leo nodded before he turned around, "Then, I shall see you tomorrow."

As he left, Chrom looked to their direction curiously as he wondered, "Hm… Just what could they've been talking about me for?"

Regardless, he turned around and made his way back to his room that he is currently sharing with his family. Luckily, Inigo would be unable to sneak out at this time of night and place, so all would be well. As he opened the door, he was met with Lucina rushing out of the door and his wife's worrying look giving him all that he needs to know as he muttered with a strained smile, "Let me guess… Our son has gone missing again."

YueTian: Hey, guys! I know this isn't fair, but I'll have to make this author's note rather short and I do know that some don't really read it to begin with. I'll edit this the coming afternoon around three or three thirty as it's late. I'm tired, but I really want you all to get the next chapter I spent all my study breaks working on. Now, I know how some of you know that what happened above came from FE Fates' DLC Hidden Truths where it tells of how Inigo, Severa, and Owain got dragged into Fates and what I have up there isn't entirely correct. That's because it isn't. it was edited to fit in with the plot. Truthfully, the three weren't led to another country, but another continent because Anankos went to Ylisstol castle to find them before bringing them to Mila's tree. As for Grima's background, I don't think that it's entirely true as the tales here goes. It's believed that Robin's ancestor made him in Valm during FE Echoes, but it's not entirely supported and I'm just saying this from what I can recall and I don't have the best memory in the world, sadly. As for what goes on here, it is the major spoiler of the Hidden Truths that I've been revealing for the last couple of chapters while forgetting to put the spoiler alert sign, which I promise to do tomorrow as it's currently past three. Okay. That's all for now. I'll do some editing in the author's notes by tomorrow and upload it soon for you all to see. Good night, everyone!