Here we are, folks. All of the character development I wanted to focus on before the fight against Hans is out of the way, mostly. That said, Nohr's Light is about ready to launch her attack on Fort Dragonfall. As always, the character poll is still live on my profile page and I'd love to hear your thoughts on the story so far - especially since I've tried my best to weave a compelling dynamic between Keiji and other characters.

Let's begin shall we?

Negotiation

You've experienced enough dreams and terrors alike to discern between the mind's overactive canvas and reality, most of the time.

So why, why does the desire to act with reckless abandon claim you?

"I must release her."

Somewhere, deep down, you still feel woefully unprepared to defeat Hans.

You'll need all the help you can get, which is why you hold a set of rusted keys in your right hand.

Cheve's holding cells. A place you've little desire to visit (save a strange compulsion) given who awaits you here. A building built of especially thick white stone; its narrow windows are barred to prevent escape. Steeling yourself for what awaits, you step through the heavy iron doors. It's even gloomier within; dismal upon the eyes. Spider webs criss-cross the walls and the air is especially damp, and naught but a couple of hanging lanterns provide light

I've little choice if I intend to return alive.

Whatever the consequences for your decision, you'll face them like a man as is proper.

As you advance down the narrow corridor you're greeted by a fresh-faced young lad adorning mismatched leather armor. His cheeks are grubby and his chestnut hair is untidy as though it hasn't been combed in many days. He appears surprised to see you, but salutes you nonetheless. "Lord Keiji...? I wasn't told to expect anyone, especially you. Might I ask why you're here at this late hour?"

Your presence known to another, there's no going back now.

"Kagero's cell; take me to it." You show your set of keys to the cell block's guard, jangling them.

Apprehensive, the guardsman raises a brow. "Are you certain this is wise?"

"Honestly? No. But my options run thin if I'm going to kill that bastard."

The lad smiles knowingly, his manner becoming the slightest bit sinister. An icy wind howling through the cells and causes you a savage shiver. Bracing, you stave it off as best you're able. "I get it. You're still out to settle matters for Miss Hana, right?"

Bested by the lad's sharpness, you bow your head and hand over the cell keys. If this weren't a scene of your mind's own creation you'd be stunned that a mere stranger knows so much of your innermost. "Just open the damn door, if you you'd be so kind. I've not the freedom to dawdle."

"I'll do as you ask, but on one condition." The guard turns from you and walks on with a spring to his step.

You follow his lead, frustrated by his desire to bargain. "And what, dare I ask, do you intend to gain by bartering?"

"Nothing of value or coinage, My Lord."

"If you've a question then hurry and ask it."

The spiteful sentry tuts, shaking his head. "Impatient as always, typical. Fine then, I shall be quick. What do you hope to gain by releasing this bitter foe?"

You're stunned by the suddenness of the inquiry, panic's talons sinking into you. "Dispense with your pointless time-wasting. Lady Camilla has need of me."

"Of course you're reluctant to answer. The wound's still too large, I see - the fires too hot."

"Go to Hell..."

"It appears I've plucked a nerve. Good. You remain bound to those who endured that day, don't you? To Kagero and Miss Hana both."

"Watch your tongue." Your hand lowers to the hilt of your wraithglass blade, these assumptions like knives carving into your body and soul.

"Threats will do little good here, Lord Keiji." Unshaken, the cell guard stops before a cell halfway down the corridor. "This is the one you want."

You look beyond the solid iron bars. Sitting in the cell's gloomiest corner with her back to the mouldy wall is the woman you came here for. Ill-kempt from captivity, her clothes ripped in several places and one of her eyes is swelled closed with bruising. Her right arm is also supported in a sling; no doubt broken when Nyx threw her around as though a paperweight. Head held low and her other eye closed in contemplation, the kunoichi is perfectly calm and collected.

You step away from the bars and fold your arms. "Open it."

Obeying, the jailor puts a key into the lock. "As you wish."

Heavy with sleep, you lift your head from the pillow and open your eyes.

Yet another bizarre dream.

You turn over with groan. The bedside candle's faint orange flame invigorates your sluggish body.

Severa sits at her desk off to the side of the bed. Her back hunched and shoulders heavy, she's busy writing on a piece of parchment. The scratching of her quill against the paper provides much-needed life to the awfully quiet room.

You sit up and try and shake off your grogginess. Heavy like an anvil, you lean against the headboard and look to the ceiling.

For the longest time you focus on the scratching of Severa's quill. You're visited by a sense of bittersweet familiarity. Charlotte would often sit up in bed and read storybooks under candlelight while you slept. Not entirely the same as writing, but seeing Severa busy awakens similar feelings all the same.

So much so that a terse smile graces your lips. "And here you suggested we retire early, Severa."

The redhead's quill stalls, its scratching falling away. "I couldn't sleep, so I did something useful and returned to our battle plan."

You look to Severa, a concerned twinge gripping your chest. Her speech is slowed and tired. "Nightmares again?"

Severa returns the quill to its inkwell. Getting up from the desk, she stretches her arms with a sigh "Yeah. I'd returned home to Ylisse."

Far from fruitful news given her tragic past. "It ended same as last time I take it?"

"It did. Mother crawled out of her grave. Her skin was rotting; grayed and decaying. And her eyes; so lifeless and white..." Severa hugs her arms around her middle and whimpers, so very small and fragile compared to her usual fire and flare.

"Gods be damned." The mere retelling leaves dread hanging in your stomach. "There's little wonder you struggle to sleep."

"No kidding. But you're awake now..." The strategist scoffs most bitterly and wipes away a tear.

You're fairly sure of what the fallen princess will ask of you. "You'd like to cuddle, I take it?"

"Uh-huh. If you don't mind."

"Not at all, I'd be happy to. Anything to help you sleep."

"Thanks..." Request obliged, Severa climbs onto the bed. Sitting kneeled, she reaches behind and releases her pigtails from their twine bands. Her auburn locks freed from their confines, she shakes them loose and tosses the bands onto her bedside table. "That's better."

You're left quietly mesmerized by her stunning good looks, your heartbeat quickening the closer she comes.

Noticing your wide-eyed staring, the droopy-eyed redhead stops just out of your reach and frowns. "There you go, gawping again. There a problem?"

"Not at all." You reply swiftly, dismissing her concerns.

"Then why are you staring like some slack-jawed dog, hmm?"

"Tis nothing, good lady." It's best you don't frustrate her any further. "Forget it."

"It doesn't look like 'nothing' to me, Keiji."

You sigh in defeat. "Fine. I find you rather attractive with your hair loose, if you really must know."

Severa rasps softly, her grumpy expression softening. "Y-You'd be better not be lying."

"I'm quite serious, Severa. I only hope the men of Ylisse complimented you for it."

"Like Hell they did." Severa grumbles, her arms folded and scowling with deathly resentment. "Most were too busy ogling Mother to pay me any mind."

"Then they're fools, or simply blind," you surmise, getting to your knees and shuffling nearer to her. "Because I happen to find your hair lovely."

The redhead rolls her eyes. "Like you really mean it."

"But I do. I insist."

"Doubtful. You'd be drooling over Cordelia too if you met her. There was hardly a man alive who didn't."

"They aren't me. My praises are yours to enjoy, Miss Severa; I wouldn't have complimented you otherwise." You touch your fingers to Severa's cheek. Shivering at your contact, she drops her arms to her sides. Her cold eyes thaw; tender and alive with compassion in a way she seldom shows.

"Then I guess you can touch it... considering you like it so darn much." Offer presented, the girl buries her face against your chest.

"I would be glad to, my good lady." An arm coiling Severa's middle for support, you gently run your fingers through her deep red strands. Once. Twice. A third time. Such silky smoothness fills you with a sense of calm, your worldly worries cast aside.

Severa relaxes into your embrace with a gentle exhale, snuggling close for added comfort. "Feels nice," she utters, turning her head and pressing her ear to the middle of your chest. Eyes closed, she exhales deeply. She appears content; at deepest peace.

Her being at ease fills you with happiness beyond words. "I've satisfied your lofty standards, I hope."

A smirk from the young lady. "Almost."

"And how, pray tell, will I appease you?"

Severa inches back and opens her eyes, her two empowered rubies shining for you. "A kiss ought to do it."

"As you wish." Eager to please, you lean in.

You're barred from fulfilling the request by a finger to your lips. Severa's smirk turns cruel, her gaze pointed. "I'm in charge, got it?"

You nod, her command well and truly understood.

"Good." Retracting the digit, Severa throws her arms around your shoulders. "It's about time you work on my terms..."

"I didn't realize this was a negotiation."

"It's not. It's a battle," she corrects. "And I won't lose no matter what."

"A battle in aid of what, exactly?"

"Cracking your stubborn shell, and opening your stupid eyes." Severa pushes her chest to yours and tightens her hold. "I'm the best you'll get, you rogue - the smartest mind and loylest love two worlds can offer a scoundrel like you, and I won't quit until I've made you admit it."

You're fixated on Severa's smooth pink lips; her moody exterior proves oddly exciting. "Then perhaps you should be careful what you wish for..." You inch nearer. The girl's short, sharp breaths send tingles running down your spine. "Because you're already so close to getting what you want."

"How close?"

"So very, very close."

"Then what's stopping you, or should I say who? It's that stupid samurai, right?" Severa levels a scathing glare and tightens her grip.

A willing prisoner to her whims, you're all too happy to indulge her. "Hana? No. As much as we shared, the pain is still too great while Hans yet lives."

Severa sighs, a hint of unease spreading across her features. "It's Lady Camilla, then. It has to be."

There's little sense hiding the long-running secret any longer. "Correct. And spoken as though as you've always known."

"Because I have, deep down. I'm a tactician's daughter, you fool. Reading others is what I do. I just chose to ignore it..."

You sense the irritation to Severa's voice. You'll need to be cautious from this point onward. "But why? I wouldn't have faulted you for raising the issue."

"Because-" Severa breaks eye contact, nervously biting down on the corner of her lip. "Shuddup!" She again buries her face in your chest.

Minutes slip away as though grains of sand through your fingers.

"Severa...?"

No reply.

"Are you angry with me?"

Still no answer.

You ease back the smallest bit. Severa's eyes are closed and she's limp in your arms, fast asleep.

"Fair enough..." You laugh softly, kissing her head.

At least now she'll finally get some rest.

On your way to the negotiations between Nohr's Light and Hoshido, you've just finished telling Nyx of last night's dream.

"You shall be fine, love," Nyx reassures with a supportive pat on the back.

Rounding the corner, you release a cleansing breath. "I certainly hope so."

"Do you intend to act upon it?"

"I shall admit I'm tempted. Dreams are guides in my life, I find."

"And I will take care of you should you do so, young one." Nyx takes hold your hand to stop you. She glances back as though to check if anyone is behind you both. Clear of onlookers, she rises to her tiptoes and steals a precious peck of your lips. "You and I are joined now; two as one in body and soul."

"Indeed, and I'm eternally grateful." An arm snaking her middle, you meet the mage in a second deeper kiss. Eyes closed, you revel in her warmth.

A second. Two. Three. You swell with satisfaction.

The two of you part a short time later (a tender instant shared) and continue onward.

Dressed in your general's finery with polished boots, it is time to do your part. You've lazed about sleeping off fatigue for too long.

Well-rested and recovered all the same, you stride beyond the throne room's iron doors - Nyx remaining directly at your side in perfect step. Ever the loyal friend, she hasn't left you since stepping out of your room this morning, being nary more than an arm's length away at all times.

The royal chamber - the heart of Nohr's Light - is well guarded. Hoshidan samurai and Nohrian spearmen oversee the talks, some standing with backs straightened to the walls and others leaned against the chamber's massive support pillars. A round varnished table is positioned at the room's center. Chairs encircle it, the majority of which are taken by important figures. Queen Camilla precedes over the meeting; Severa sitting at her left and Elise at her right.

There waits two empty spaces at the table - chairs positioned between both groups. They're reserved for you and your retainer, no doubt.

Quiet chatter is being exchanged between the two parties. You hope it's the beginnings of worthwhile discussion.

Across from the Nohrian trio are Hoshido's key figures. Hana is the first, the other two being a duo you haven't seen in a very long time. First is Subaki - the ever suave and confident Sky Knight; your old comrade from days past. And Miss Sakura - the youngest of Hoshido's royal siblings. She is just as you remember her. Innocent and demure; adorned in her finest white robes. The very picture of a shrine maiden to the core.

"Vanguard General Keiji and Miss Nyx have arrived, your highness," one of the knights protecting the door announces as you venture further inside.

The chattering nobles (and their retainers) quiet down as you arrive by your chair, Nyx pulling it out from under the table for you.

"Most appreciated," you thank the mage, sitting down.

"Think nothing of it, my young lord," she answers, taking the seat beside you.

"Welcome, my dears," Camilla greets you both. "How lovely of you to join us."

The queen deserves an apology. You could've been faster getting ready this morning if you hadn't dwelled on the dream about Kagero. Annoying, when you consider just how far she went to forcefully bring you back to Ryoma. "Forgive my lateness, milady. I was distracted when I awoke."

"Think nothing of it. You're already well-acquainted with our guests, I'm sure." The royal gestures toward the Hoshidan side of the table.

"I certainly am." Shifting to address your former comrades, you bow your head. "Tis a pleasure to see you again, Lady Sakura." You spare a welcoming smile for her ever-assured male retainer. "And you too, Subaki." While only small-talk, you feel it only polite to start somewhere. "Your arm's better, I see."

"Sure is," Subaki replies warmly, flexing. "It's good to see you too, friend." Pointing to your coat, he whistles coolly. "Black suits you."

"It does, doesn't it?" Camilla agrees. "You may thank my seamstresses for the craftsmanship, Sir Subaki."

Hana jabs an elbow into Subaki's ribs, shooting him a warning stare. "Watch it," she chastises. "He doesn't need you inflating his ego."

"I was merely complimenting him, Hana," he counters, raising his hands in mocking surrender. "We've not spoken in too long. Or perhaps you're jealous?"

Hana raises a clenched, trembling fist. "Why you-"

"B-Be nice, both of you," Sakura squeaks, standing from her chair with neatly clasped hands. "We're all friends here today." Her cheeks flare an intense red with embarrassment. "Please don't bicker in front of company..."

You stifle a snicker and swallow it. Subaki and Hana still treat each other exactly the same as you recall them doing.

"Of course, Lady Sakura," Subaki complies with a wink, beyond successful in riling up his lady counterpart. "Sorry about that."

Muttering a few choice words under her breath at the Sky Knight, Hana relents.

Despite Sakura's fearful floundering, Camilla giggles at the exchange. "How alike your retainers are to mine," she teases, glancing between yourself and Severa. Practically glowing like a proud mother, she grins. "Though they squabble viciously, I am certain they wouldn't be without one another."

"L-Lady Camilla!" Severa protests, her face turning pale pink in the blink of an eye. "Please stop..."

"But you know it's true, darling."

Though better in control of your feelings than the redhead, your heart still flutters at the queen's observation.

"I suppose you're right," Sakura titters innocently, raising a hand to her mouth to conceal her laughter.

Having spared Hoshido's princess some undue distress, Camilla calms herself and clears her throat. In perfect command of her emotions once more, she reaches across the table to Sakura. "And speaking of those we care for, let's discuss our next matter of business: the protection of dearest Corrin."

"O-Of course!" Sakura sits back down and accepts Camilla's outstretched hand - her gesture of unity. You notice a hopeful glint to the young lady's gaze; the very essence of dedication. "I-I brought two hundred men with me... my personal guards. They're all kind people, loyal people. Healers and diviners mostly, but a few soldiers too. Will they suffice... as a sign of good faith?" Free hand held to her heart, Sakura awaits the verdict.

Camilla joins Sakura's fingers: a showing of solidarity. "My precious young lady, I need no gestures of good faith from you." Kind assurance delivered, she glances to Hana. Winking in approval, she looks back to the samurai's mistress. "Miss Hana has done more than enough to show the wholesome and honest nature of Hoshido's soldiers. Together with my vanguard, she fought bravely in our first encounter with Hans."

"I-I'm glad," Sakura exhales thankfully. "In that case... I'd like for us to join forces, at least until our mutual enemy is beaten. My brother Ryoma..." The good lady releases a heavy sigh. "He isn't himself, and until he comes to his senses... I must do all I can for the innocents suffering because of this awful war."

You raise a curious brow. The letter Flora showed you expressed a similar sentiment with regards to Ryoma.

"Lady Sakura," you address the shine maiden, fuelled with curiosity. Perhaps she knows more. "Is your brother in good health?"

"Sadly, no," she informs; her voice is small and disheartened. "In recent weeks he has... changed somewhat."

"Changed? How so?"

"Manners, Keiji," Camilla cautions. "We'll not pry into our allies' personal business, out of respect for her honesty."

"Of course, Your Majesty." Mindful not to push too far, you lower your head to Sakura. "I apologize for my rudeness."

"I-It's alright," she replies softly. "I appreciate your concern."

You exhale internally. I most certainly feel concerned. Relations between the two sides will remain stronger with Sakura unaware of your true knowledge, though you can't deny you've a powerful urge to find out more about happenings at Macarath.

"Very good," Issue resolved, Camilla unclasps her hands from those of her royal counterpart. "Now then, my general," she continues, her attention fixated upon you. Her voice is soft and imploring, her eyes radiating warmth. "Might I make a tiny request of you?"

"As ever, my queen," you approve with bow of the head. "I am at your disposal."

"Accommodating as ever," she praises. "Be a sweetheart and have the vanguard train with our newfound Hoshidan allies. I feel Sakura's soldiers will be at greater ease with one of their kin working alongside them for the time being. It isn't too much to ask of you, is it?"

"Not at all. It would be a distinct honor to train alongside Sumeragi's youngest."

"Perfect! Then we're agreed. My followers and I will cooperate with Lady Sakura henceforth." A promising new relationship forged between the two sides, the queen's eyes fall upon her trusted bodyguard. "Selena. Does your strategy show promise?"

"It does," the redhead replies, raising a hand to her mouth to hide a yawn. Combating her sleepiness with a quick shake of the head, Severa lowers her hand again. "The maps our scouts drew are just what I need - rich with detail." She produces a scroll of rolled up brown parchment paper with tattered edges from beside her chair, putting it down on the tabletop. Unfolding it reveals a tactical drawing of the dreaded Nohrian fortress.

"I've been working from dusk until dawn to find Dragonfall's weakness," she explains. "And I have a course of action for us... at last."

"I expected as much from one as dedicated as yourself," Camilla compliments. "Be a dear and indulge our curiosities, Selena."

"It would be my pleasure." Severa points toward Fort Dragonfall's sketched icon. "The fortress has two ways in and out, for starters. A front gate and another to the east. Our first step should be to seal the eastern gateway. This should force Hans' troops to face us from the front, and limit their escape options. To pull this off I've devised a two-step plan. We'll first have the vanguard lure out Hans' marauders and keep them distracted for a time."

"A combined vanguard," Hana suggests rather assertively. "I'll join my swordsmen with Lord Keiji's troops, just like last time."

Severa stares down the lady samurai in light of her declaration. "I'm not certain you'll still want to. Not when you've heard my whole plan."

Hana narrows her eyes in retaliation. "And why not, Miss Selena...?"

"Because the vanguard will storm the fort in search of Hans. They'll be tasked with pressing the final attack."

"All the more reason I go with Keiji then," Hana asserts, moving the hand on which she wears her bronzed betrothal brand into plain view at the table's centre for all to see. Severa's face twists with jealousy at the sight of it. "We have more reasons than most to see that monster dead."

"Maybe you do." Severa scoffs, glaring resentful daggers. "But are you sure you won't falter when face-to-face with him? I can't have you losing your nerve. You might end up putting your allies in danger, and as strategist of this coalition I can't take such a risk."

"Can't or won't? Because if you really understood the Hoshidan ways then you'd know we're made of stronger stuff, especially us women."

The air heating with hostility between the two, you're halfway tempted to intervene.

But Camilla raises a hand, quieting both ladies. "A means of payback I assume, Miss Hana - for the humiliation you suffered at Okashi?"

The swordswoman bows her head. "That's right, Your Majesty. And you swore to me upon taking Cheve that I'd be allowed to settle that score."

"You are indeed correct; which is why Selena will make adjustments to accommodate you." Camilla eyes her strategist sternly, her will iron-clad on the matter. "Surely it will not take too much effort to factor our newfound allies into this step of the plan."

Severa nods, donning a truly venom-laced smirk. A facade you've witnessed many times before when the redhead is angry. "Of course not, Lady Camilla. A single unified vanguard will work just fine, though I'll have to make fair adjustments to the second phase."

"Oh really? And why might that be?"

Looking again to her battle map, Severa shifts her finger to a position at Dragonfall's eastern side. "Because we shall need somebody with draconic blood, and I had hoped our Hoshidan allies would support us." You lean nearer the map to get a closer look. The spot at which Severa points is marked with an emblem depicting a crudely drawn dragon. "We'll need somebody who bares draconic blood to tap into the Dragon Vein by the fort's eastern entrance."

"Draconic blood, you say?"

"Yes, so we might fissure the ground and block off the eastern entranceway from being used."

"I see. We'll trap our barbarian friends, leaving the vanguard free to assail the fortress proper."

Severa winks, ever prideful in her tactical mastery. "Exactly. Checkmate, as my father used to say."

"Very clever." Humming, Camilla taps a thoughtful finger against chin. "It shall have to be one of us, Miss Sakura."

The soft-spoken healer rises to her feet. "Yes it will. While we're not blessed with Corrin's gift of transformation, the lifeblood of the olden dragons still flows through both Nohr and Hoshido's royal bloodlines, if very faintly."

"Indeed. A gift, according to the legends," Camilla adds. "And as a showing of good faith, I am willing to fulfil this role in Selena's plan."

Panic staking its claim, you rise from your seat to speak.

"You can't, milady!" Severa objects, cutting you off before you can begin.

Visibly surprised by her outburst, the queen is quick to compose herself around company. "And why not?"

"Because you're talking about riding out onto the frontline! It's much too dangerous!"

Her reservations stated clearly, you're free to support the Ylissean. "I must agree with Selena, Your Majesty. Should you come to harm then all we seek to achieve here will be for naught. You are the very heart and soul of this revolution; our guiding light to a better tomorrow. Should you die, it's over."

Elise gets up, her entry into the fray rendering everyone quiet.

"You're forgetting about me," she blonde declares, her voice colored with the smallest touch of frustration. Eyes full to the brim with eagerness and bravery, she raises an impassioned hand to her chest. "I have royal blood too, and I'm the strongest mage in all of Nohr, aside Miss Nyx. Let me do it!"

Visibly afraid of the very suggestion, Camilla shakes her head. "Absolutely not, young lady."

"But Camilla... I'm sixteen - a grown woman in all but the fancy ceremony. You said so yourself!" Her gaze hardening with extreme wilfulness, Elise grabs her elder sibling's hands in petition and holds them tightly. "Give me a chance to prove myself. Just one! I promise I'll be careful."

For the longest time Camilla remains painfully quiet. She releases Elise's hands and folds her arms, deep in contemplation.

"Please Camilla!" her sister persists.

The queen sighs, bested. "Sir Arthur, you will protect her, won't you?"

His name evoked, the tall blonde gentleman (Elise's bodyguard, if memory serves) rises on command. "You can count on me, my most just and courageous queen." He flashes the monarch a pearly grin and puffs out his muscular chest. "None shall harm your dear Elise while I bar their path."

Only twice have you heard this 'Arthur' fellow speak, and yet he sounds so very noble and forthright.

"Very well then." Camilla looks back to her enthusiastic younger sibling. "You may go. I'm counting on you, dear. Do me proud."

"Of course. I won't let you down, Sister!"

"Very good. Now, Selena..." Camilla again dedicates her attentions to her strategist. "Is there anything more you wish to share with us?"

"I'd say we've discussed everything important," the redhead informs, raising a hand to her mouth and yawning. Blinking away her tiredness, she straightens her posture. "Might I be excused, so I can get some sleep?"

Camilla appears quietly concerned by her retainer's tiredness. "You may. Though I have a question first. How much rest have you had?"

"Not enough..." A simple reply proceeded by yet another yawn.

"It would satisfy me greatly if you provided an answer, dear." Camilla looks to you. "Lord Keiji, you shared a room with her yesterday, did you not?"

"I did." You nod.

"Then I'm sure you can tell me just how much sleep our darling Selena has really had."

Likewise concerned for the redhead, you think back to the night before. "Very little. I found her at the writing desk when I awoke in the small hours."

"I thought as much." Camilla sighs as though a disappointed elder sibling.

Severa groans at your honesty, her gaze sharpening a touch. "You didn't have to tell her that, Keiji..."

"Now now, Selena," Camilla intervenes, tutting and shaking her head. "You might not realize this, but part of the reason I asked Keiji to share your chamber was to keep you from overworking yourself in my absence, and the same in reverse. The two of you are prone to burning the candle at both ends."

Severa's quiet frustration becomes surprise. "You did?"

"Indeed. Now, you may go, and I shall have one of the maids deliver a spot of lunch for you later."

"I'm grateful, milady Camilla." Severa steps away from the table and pushes in a chair. Ready to go, she bows for the queen. "Send for me if needed."

"But of course, dear."

The tactician departs.

Seating herself once again, Camilla clasps her hands together and exhales thoughtfully. "Now, my friends and comrades, there is one more important matter we must discuss - the Kunoichi who is currently locked in the town cells. More precisely, what should be done with her."

"A-About that," Sakura starts, twiddling her thumbs rather anxiously. "Kagero's continued attacks on Keiji, and Miss Kana..." Standing up and stepping out from the table, the Hoshidan princess turns to you and arches her back in an intensely submissive bow. "She's acting on my brother's orders. Please don't judge the rest of us too harshly for what she's done... I beg of you. I don't condone any of it, really I don't."

An anxious silence befalls the negotiating table - Sakura's heartfelt plea tugging at your heart.

"I'm sure Keiji understands, My Lady." Hana is the first to break the veil of stillness, likewise standing to rest a hand on Sakura's shoulder.

While an injury you incurred through Kagero ultimately played a part in Charlotte's demise, it is no fault of Sakura's. Content with that much, you smile thinly. "Hana is right. Tis nothing you need worry yourself over, Lady Sakura. Even when I served under you, you always did the right thing. I believe in you."

"...A-Alright. But I'll understand if your queen intends to punish her."

"You needn't worry, Miss Sakura," Camilla assures kindly. "It is my intention to spare her life."

"Y-You will?" Sakura asks in a terse breath, rising and straightening her posture.

"Indeed. I'm not heartless like my father. No harm will befall the ninja so long as she does not seek to endanger the lives of my men."

"Then I'll speak with her," Sakura adds. "To see if she will cooperate."

Guided by the dream you had, you think it time to state your intentions. "You needn't trouble yourself, Lady Sakura. I plan to talk with her myself."

"Y-You do?" Your straightforward admission catches the Hoshidan princess off guard.

"Indeed." The memory of Kagero hatefully twisted face as she approached you in bed sends a frozen shiver down your back. You steel yourself in spite of it and forge ahead. "I don't feel she's an evil woman at heart; merely a warrior dedicated to her master - a trait we both share."

Camilla frowns regardless of your belief. "Are you sure it's wise, Lord Keiji?"

"Tis worth a try, and if I remember rightly it was you who originally suggested we afford her compassion."

"And it was you who so boldly stated that she would not be swayed. Why the sudden change of heart?"

Explaining your dream would not be sufficient assurance for the motherly monarch. Instead you'll speak from within on the matter. "A twinge of conscience; or perhaps you could call it my inner-Hoshidan. Either way, I feel I speak a language she'll understand - one of duty and the warrior's code."

"I'll allow it, but on one condition."

"Name your terms, My Queen."

"Nyx." Camilla casts her eyes to the eternally youthful mage.

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

"As Keiji's retainer it falls upon you to ensure his safety. Go with him to the cells and oversee this discussion."

The fortune teller bows her head. "You need not worry, Lady Camilla. I had already planned to do so."

"You foresaw this, then?"

"In a manner of speaking."

Getting out from the table, you stand tall and fold your arms. "I shall be proactive and take my leave then." Nyx gets up and falls in beside you, loyal and dedicated to the core. Ready to leave, you spare a respectful bow for your comrades at the table. "It was a pleasure to see you all again. Take care."

"B-Before you go, Keiji," Sakura lets her voice be heard, stalling your departure. "Do try to avoid coming to blows with Kagero. She thought highly of you while you were still in service to Hoshido. I-In fact..." A look of hesitation overtakes the shrine maiden. "...I'm not supposed to tell you this, but it was she who recommended you be chosen as Corrin's retainer to my brother Ryoma - a recommendation he approved."

Though jarred by the news, you retain a calm exterior. "Really now?"

"Y-Yes. I was in Brother's company while they spoke about it."

Camilla hums darkly, her lips turning upward sadistically. "I wonder..."

"A problem, My Queen?" you query.

"Not exactly. But Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, my dear Keiji."

You follow Camilla's way of thinking, given your understanding of the lady ninja. "You feel I tarnished her honor by renouncing Hoshido, don't you?"

"Perhaps." The queen chuckles most wickedly, sadism shining in her eyes. "And maybe, just maybe, there is more."

"You believe she saw me as a friend?"

"In a manner of speaking..."

"Doubtful," you dismiss with a firm shake of the head. "We seldom socialized outside of battle.

"And yet she pursues you so very, very aggressively; as though an obsession."

"I don't see her reasoning. I've said little while still serving Hosido to attract her interest nor her ire."

"It doesn't matter. You hardly require mere words to win supporters; your skills as a warrior more than suffice - a trait you seem oddly oblivious to."

"Hmph." You shrug of the notion, bowing. "Whatever the case, I shall try to win her over. Nyx?" You turn to leave.

"Forever at your side, My Lord." The mage follows.

"Tread carefully," Camilla advises as you arrive before the throne room's open iron doors.

Collected and confident, you glance back. "With Nyx at my side I'm perfectly fine."

The blacksmith, any town's most humble tradesman and the heart of a bustling community.

A venue of strength and grit within which warriors are tempered and their steel is likewise shaped.

Sooty black smoke billows from the white stone building's chimney; open for business even as the sun gets low in the sky. The clank of a hammer against molten metal grants you a sense of comfort, memories of being a young man in Izami flowing back to you. Simpler times; happier times.

You remove your coat and toss it over your shoulder, ready to enter. "We're here. Let's pay them a visit, shall we?"

"The smithy?" Nyx questions, folding her arms and pondering. "Are you not satisfied with your sword of glass, young one?"

"Beyond content, my good lady," you answer, tapping the scabbard sheathed at your hip. "But I'll require an extra dagger, for our meeting with Kagero."

"I hope you've no intention of doing anything foolish, the queen's alliance with Miss Sakura depends on it." Nyx frowns, humming in great thought.

"Hardly, but reaching an understanding with my former ally will hardly be without risk."

You step closer to the smith's doorway, your cherished protector grabbing your wrist and stopping you. "Just what do you intend to do, exactly?" A heartfelt question from the mystic, one she asks with the greatest of concern. "Nothing rash, I sincerely hope."

"You've not foreseen the outcome already?"

"Not on this occasion, Keiji." The fortune teller shakes her head. "And to ensure your safety I must be forewarned, so please, talk to me."

Though stoic, you've spent enough time in Nyx's company to sense when she's discontent. There's an air about her; a subtle shift in her demeanour. Her being forthright where she is usually stoic is one such indicator; her holding your hand is the other.

You'll not deny her, especially after all you've shared. "As you wish." You join yours and Nyx's fingers, squeezing with care. "I know Kagero well enough to be certain she won't trust me outright, so it is my intent to win her over by tipping the scales in her favor; by appealing to her sense of Hoshidan duty."

"And how, my love, do you intend to do that?"

You give Nyx's hand another comforting squeeze and release, heading through the blacksmith's doors. "You'll see."

It's just as Severa said - to earn another's trust you have to be willing to place your wellbeing in their hands.

A risk you'll take if it means ensuring Hans' defeat.

To be continued...

There you have it. Another chapter comes to a close. Did you like it? Would you like to see more in future? Feel free to leave some feedback and share your thoughts. As always, keep on supporting Fire Emblem and I'll see you in the next part. Thanks again!