Hello Everybody!

*crickets*

7: Ummmm … Where's the stage?

Lucina: *Stands up from a small fire* Oh, thank Naga you're here!

7: Lucina? What happened?!

Lucina: Since you haven't updated in over a week the Valkyria team took all the props to practice!

7: B-but, I'm not going to be writing that story until this one is done! I even told them to relax for a while!

Severa: *Enters with a deer* Hey! It's not OUR fault that you had to go on leave! We've all had to sit here and make do with what we could find!

7: I left you all 500,000 GOLD! How did you blow through that in nine days!?

Lucina: Two words: shopping and Gaius.

7:& %$ He got to the treasury, didn't he?

Lucina: Yep, and SOMEONE *glares at an innocently whistling Severa* got it into Cynthia and Kjelle's heads to go shopping for 'training gear'.

7: *sigh* I guess this is what it feels like to get left alone for a while, I can't imagine what the long hiatus fics feel like.

In any case, let's get back to where we were. We now join the Shepherds just inside the borders of Plegia, four days after leaving Ferox.

Much to the Shepherd's chagrin, Naga was not in a helping mood.

The march to the border of Plegia was easy, insofar as moving across frozen ground could be, but now they had an issue.

To put it simply, the mountain paths were in ruins. Only a few remained traversable, but it would take the Feroxi forces days to find new paths to cross.

Robin sighed, tuning out the argument Chrom was having with Flavia. Chrom was questioning how the Plegian raiders that had been attacking Ferox could cross the ruined roads while Flavia answered his every shout with one of her own.

Robin didn't see what the issue was. The Shepherds were perfectly capable of going through the remaining passes and scouting, they didn't need to be inside the Feroxi forces all the time.

"Yo, Rob, what you thinkin bout?"

Robin glanced from the ground to a grinning Vaike. "Waiting for those two to hash out their differences. You?"

Vaike puffed out his chest. "Just lookin' for my partner. You seen her recently?"

Robin's brow rose. "Oh, looking for Lady Cherche? Tell me, why the interest the last few weeks? Don't tell me the wyvern lover captured your interest."

Vaike grimaced. "Ya know, sayin' weeks when it's been a few days at most… Outrealms are weird."

Robin shrugged. "You're telling me. Anyway, she's on a scouting run right now. Should be back soon, but I suggest getting something ready for her. Say…"

Vaike turned on his heel. "Say no more! I'm coming for you boars!"

He took off running and Robin couldn't stop a smile. It was so charming to see the usual blockhead Vaike not only being considerate but also knowing someone well enough to realize their wyvern comes first.

"And there goes lover boy. Tell me, Robin, why aren't you so considerate with me?"

Lissa plopped next to him, flashing her pearly whites. Robin rolled his eyes. "Please, you don't need me doting on you. If anything, you're the one doing the doting. Speaking of, how's Donnel doing?"

Lissa huffed. "He's doing fine, I'll have you know. And I don't dote on him, I just try to make sure he's getting used to this!"

Robin merely chuckled. Lissa may say otherwise, but Donnel fell into being a fighter with almost frightening ease. In fact, he'd settled into the camp life far faster than Lissa or Maribelle could ever claim, and was teaching them how to live off the land.

Lissa growled, guessing the source of his mirth. "Stop that! He's the only guy even close to my age here not named Ricken, of course I want to spend time with him."

Robin smirked. "Oh, is that so? I guess Ricken must live with the disappointment of not being the princesses' favorite plaything."

Lissa punched his shoulder. "Please, stop. I get enough of this from Sully, I don't need it from you too."

She sighed. "Besides, it's pretty hard to even talk with him. Maribelle seems to have it in her mind that he's a scumbag that's trying to get in my shift."

Robin almost choked on his spit. "Really?!"

Lissa nodded, her face twisting in frustration. "Yeah, and I don't know why. Donnel's far too nice to even realize what a shift is let alone try to get in one. He's not Gaius, but every time I tell her that she just gets all red and angry."

Robin…didn't know what to say to that.

Lissa smirked. "Just be glad Chrom's still arguing. If he heard this little conversation of ours, he'd throw a fit."

Robin finally unwound his tongue. "Yes… that would be quite bad. Um, if you'll excuse me, I need to check up on Vaike. Never know where he's run off to."

Lissa rolled her eyes but bid him farewell. Robin noted Lissa grabbing a stick off the ground and advancing on Chrom, but he didn't stick around for the inevitable. Instead, he made his way to the corral the Shepherds set up for their mounts.

He could hear the whoosh of wings passing by overhead and the light was briefly blocked. The shadow passed and Robin watched a heavily armored wyvern land with a thud.

"Cherche! Minerva! I brought boar!"

Robin jumped away from the shouts behind him and barely avoided an enthusiastic Vaike. He was carrying a big hog over his shoulder and there was a roar of joy when Minerva spotted the fresh meat.

A flash of dark pink revealed a smiling Cherche, her cheer at odds with the heavy plate and white crest attached to her chin. Robin, curious about what was about to happen, walked forward unnoticed.

Vaike spoke first. "Don't worry, Cherche! I made sure to get this one out of the woods with permission!"

Cherche stroked Minerva, chuckling at the excited lizard. "Good, you listened. As I said earlier, the gesture's appreciated, but we don't want to get in trouble for poaching."

Vaike laughed. "Yeah, with Chrom bein' all hissy that'd be a sight. I don't see why he's worried personally, he's got the Shepherds!"

His chest puffed out. "And he's got the best pair a fighters right here! Plegians are nothin'!"

Cherche smiled. "Well, I thank you for the compliment. Vaike, I wish you a good day. Minerva is getting understandably upset with us."

Vaike blinked before finally noticing the smoky maw inching ever closer to the boar on his shoulder. He yelped and laid the boar on the ground before speaking again. "Yeah, uh, I'll see you later."

He turned around and sulked off, Cherche sighed when he was out of sight. "I don't know what to do, Minerva. He's so… obvious in his affections, but he's so charming that I can't just turn him down."

Minerva growled and grunted, obviously enjoying her meal. Cherche flushed in response. "I do not feel a fluttering when we speak. In fact, I'm insulted that you would think I search him out for minor reasons."

Minerva chuffed and Cherche groaned. "You're not helping. I understand you like him, everyone does, but to insinuate that I may feel something romantic for him is going too far."

Robin decided to leave. This was a private discussion and it was rude for him to stick around.

But, he was stopped soon after leaving the corral, a familiar shade of red walking toward him. "Hello, Cordelia, do you need something?"

Cordelia shook her head. "No, not really. I just… wanted to check in. Any new plans, are we moving soon?"

Robin sighed. "No, sadly. Chrom and Flavia are having another shouting match, so I sent the troops ahead to start repairing the roads. The Shepherds are likely to go before the Feroxi, but we'll need everyone in the air we can get. I don't fancy trying to navigate the desert on the other side."

Cordelia nodded. "Understood. So, while we're waiting, do you mind helping me?"

Robin's brow shot into his hair. "What could you need my help with? Knowing you, it must be frustrating to overcome your perfectionism."

Her cheeks tinted red. "You say it like a compliment."

Robin laughed. "Because it is! You were already so determined when we first met, but you've really stepped it up after entering the gate."

His gaze became softer, more concerned. "You… haven't been burying yourself in it, have you?"

Cordelia sighed. "No, I haven't. Ask anyone in the Shepherds and they'll tell you the same."

Her gaze became hard. "And why do you always ask? I meet with Lissa twice a week for…therapy," she ground the word, "and I've been staying with Sumia. Everything's been on your orders and I know you get reports, so why are you so set on stifling me?"

Robin pinched his nose. How should he answer this?

Cordelia was silent, waiting for his answer. She had appreciated the idea for about a week, but she wasn't that helpless.

And if she still woke up screaming from nightmares every other hour, well, a sleeping draught kept Sumia quiet.

Robin finally gave in. "It's because you're my friend. What you went through was horrifying and I want to do all I can to help. But… I will always be concerned, even after you and the others claim you're fine."

He sighed. "If you want the meetings to end, I'll tell Lissa. I'll pull the others away from you so you can have some time to yourself. Much as it hurts me to say it… I'll even give you your own tent."

Cordelia smiled as his offer took shape, but frowned when his gaze hardened. "What's the catch?"

Robin kept his eyes on hers. "You come to me, anytime something happens. I care enough to listen to your feelings, but I know you're stubborn too. Please, just let me be there and don't use this as an excuse to isolate yourself."

He put a hand on her shoulder, "Ok?"

Cordelia's face was pensive, but she took his hand off her shoulder. "…Very well. I'll come to you if anything… unfortunate occurs."

Robin frowned, not sure what her gesture meant. Cordelia took his silence as a dismissal and excused herself, brushing past him as she went.

He narrowed his eyes, but groaned when he heard Frederick calling for him. Looks like he needed to help them wrestle Chrom into submission.

Again.

-Cordelia-

Damn it all.

Cordelia sighed for the millionth time, Theresa snorting in exasperation. "I know girl, I know. Here I am, trying to be the model knight, when all I can do is rely on people. What can I do to prove I can do things on my own?"

Theresa shook her head, pawing at the earth.

"What, you think that's not the problem? Tell me then, oh wise one, what should I do?"

Theresa craned her neck towards the camp, huffing when Cordelia just stared.

"What, you want me to go to my tent? Are you willing to give up your brushing if it makes me go?"

Theresa whinnied and Cordelia shrugged. "Ok… I guess I'll go then. But, don't be surprised if I'm back shortly."

She turned and left her mount, weaving her way through the familiar twists and turns of the camp. She returned any greetings she was given, but tried to avoid the more amorous soldiers until she was safely before her own tent.

Pulling the flap aside, she blinked at the state of her personal space.

Well, the only difference was a wicker basket covered by a cloth in the center of the room, but it was a big difference.

Who could have left this here? Maybe Sumia delivered some lunch?

Shrugging, she grabbed the basket and placed it on the floor. A little card fell out, but she didn't notice it, instead removing the cloth to reveal a wonderful spread.

Oh, all my favorites. Sumia, you're a wonderful friend, but you need to stop spoiling me.

She shrugged, may as well partake in the bounty before getting back to work. It had been a few hours since she'd spoken to Robin, so who knew when they'd get to eat again? Grabbing a loaf of cheese crusted bread, she bit into the heavenly morsel before finally noticing the card on the ground.

Oh, what's this?

She reached down and grabbed the letter, pausing when she heard the tent's flap brush the ground.

"Cordelia? You in here?"

Sumia pushed the flap aside and almost laughed. Cordelia was bent over with a letter in hand, her cheeks puffed from the bite she'd taken from the loaf of bread.

Cordelia swallowed hard, trying to keep a blush from her face. "D-do you need something, Sumia?"

"Oh, nothing important." Sumia answered. "Just wanted to see if you'd found the surprise."

Cordelia's face relaxed. "Oh, so this is from you. Look, I appreciate the sentiment, but I don't n-"

"That's not from me."

Cordelia blinked at the rebuke. "Really?

Sumia rolled her eyes. "Look, just read the letter, it'll make sense."

Cordelia narrowed her eyes, but opened the letter.

Cordelia,

I know this may seem rather late, but I'd like to welcome you to the Shepherds! The basket and the food inside is the product of much work from all our current members, so we hope you enjoy. Before you ask, this is a custom of the Shepherds-we greet new members with a meal. But, due to the march, we're only able to give you this small meal. We wish you all the best and hope to have you with us for a long time.

Cordelia felt a wry smile bloom on her face. The letter had the signature of every Shepherd on it, even Chrom's.

"Geez, I told him to stop making you guys stifle me."

Sumia giggled. "Nope, it's true! Every Shepherd to join has gotten an honorary meal, but with circumstances being what they are, we had to settle for this."

Cordelia put the letter down, missing a small piece of parchment hiding behind it. "Well, I can't eat all of this on my own. Care to help?"

Sumia smiled and they dug in. True to the letter's word, there wasn't much, but it was a wonderful midday meal nonetheless after nothing but salted meat and hard bread for a week. They were even able to catch up a bit more, but the conversation stalled when the they reached the bottom of the basket.

Sumia reached into the basket and pulled out a small box. It wasn't anything special, but it was weird to find the rough wood hiding under the food.

She frowned at Cordelia. "Was there anything else in the letter? Like, an extra note or something?"

Cordelia frowned too and grabbed the letter, finally noticing the small scrap behind it. "Yes, there is. Hold on, let me read it."

The handwriting was eerily familiar, but she nearly sighed when she realized who it was.

Cordelia,

You've likely already read the big letter. I hope you enjoy the food and can relax a bit from your duties. Now, the reason for this is I have a surprise waiting for you in the bottom of the basket. It's a box I carved myself while we were in the Outrealms. I think you'll like what you find inside.

Also, in case we're on the march when you get this, happy birthday!

Your friend,

Robin

Cordelia snorted, of course he knew. "Let me guess, you told him my birthday was coming up?"

Sumia blushed. "Well, uh, he wanted to know. I always found it odd that you never told him, so…"

Cordelia shook her head. "It never came up. Besides, I didn't want to bring up his amnesia."

Sumia's eyes narrowed. "You know… he told me you two had a fight. He wouldn't tell me what happened, but whatever you said must have made him super mad. In fact, he's only been that mad when someone called him a kiss up."

Cordelia's eyes grew shamed. "I… I admit I insulted him. In my defense, however weak it may be, he was insulting the pride I hold in my duty. Unfortunately… my mouth moved faster than my brain."

Sumia nodded. "Well, then I think he's a keeper. I won't deny that he's at fault for getting that fight started, if what you say is true, but he's made up for it in every way possible."

Cordelia blushed. "That's not… we're just friends, Sumia."

Sumia rolled her eyes. "Please, stop spouting that drivel. Tell me, my old friend, when's the last time you tried to catch Chrom's attention?"

Cordelia's mouth opened, ready to put the scrutiny to bed when she froze. She couldn't remember the last time she'd done so, at least recently.

She tried anyway. "I tried shortly after I arrived in Ylisstol. He called a meeting with the Pegasus Knights and I tried to talk to him."

Sumia's gaze was smug. "Yeah, that was before we came back from Ferox the first time. I was there too, remember?"

Cordelia almost cursed. All she could do was snatch the box from Sumia's hands and point to the tent flap. When Sumia frowned, Cordelia huffed. "It's my surprise, don't ruin it. Besides, don't you need to check on Selene soon?"

Sumia yelped and fled from the tent, screaming about a brush the entire way. Cordelia just shook her head and gave the box in her hands a once over. It was rough like she thought, the obvious sign of a novice carver, but there was something charming about the ruggedness.

Maybe because it's from Robin?

She shook her head of the thought, preferring to just stare at the small latch and hinges. Again, the work was that of an amateur, but she didn't want to ruin the oddly perfect little cube.

Eventually, curiosity won out and she opened the gift.

She gasped when the present came into view.

They were a pair of hair clips, each one shaped to resemble a Pegasus wing. They were made of an odd blue-white stone that shone in the low light, with silver outlined each feather. To finish, gold capped the wing tips and the clips themselves were sturdy steel.

They were…beautiful.

Where did he find the time? These are masterfully done, better than I've seen in many stores, but they must have taken a long time to make. Even then, what's the stone? I can't place it, but it's so soothing…

She shook her head, the clips she wore making their weight known as she pulled the gift out of the box.

But… I can't just replace my current ones. Mother gave these to me when I was accepted into the knights.

She gulped and slowly pulled her current clips from her hair, looking between the two pieces in her hands. Eventually, she closed one of her hands with a sigh.

I'm sorry, Robin, but I can't just wear your gift. You're a true friend, but my family is greater to me than anything…even you.

Something in her railed against that thought, her heart pounding painfully. But she forced the sick feeling away and placed the gift back in the box and put her normal clips back on.

A horn sounded and she pushed the matter from her mind. It was time for action, not introspection.

Even if her choice broke her friend's heart.

-Robin-

It had not been a good day.

He'd had to wrestle Chrom for half an hour, insults that only they could use flying, before the original idea of the Shepherds going ahead was finally put in motion. Along with that, he'd had to organize the scattered Shepherds together and rush the packing of the camp.

Then, just to rub salt in the wound, Cordelia was actively avoiding him, his gift nowhere in sight.

He bit his tongue, not wanting his mind to wander as they trudged through the sand. That was the other thing that made the day horrid, the sand that stretched for miles. Sure, the mountains had greenery for a few miles, but it soon gave way to sand as far as the eye could see. In fact, they were currently heading for what Cherche thought was an oasis.

Having a wyvern that could navigate the mess of air currents was a godsend.

He glanced at the sky and frowned as red flashed away from the main body.

She's staying away from me, even up there? What's going on?

A grunt drew his eyes to the earth. Poor Kellam was being hauled in the only wagon they had, his massive plate suit making the wood creak. The heat was nearly unbearable for him, but he needed to be ready always now that they were in Plegian territory.

"Hey, Robin, what's up?"

He looked to see Stahl's concerned gaze. "Oh, just wondering why there's no Plegians. I know the border was in disrepair, but we should have seen the Plegian Guard by now."

Stahl hummed, eyes scanning the horizon. "Agreed. They're notorious for how ferocious they are against invaders. You don't think they could be waiting for us, do you?"

Robin nodded. "Yes, that's what I think. Where though, I can only guess. Most likely, they'll be waiting for us by the oasis and in the towns that surround the lake."

Stahl nodded. "Makes sense. Well, anything else on your mind? I can tell that's not all you're thinking about."

Robin chuckled. "You know me too well. But… this is kind of private."

Stahl's lips pulled back in a grin. "Let me guess… It has to do with the lovely Lady Cordelia."

Robin glared, his eyes leaking poison. "Damn you and your empathy."

Stahl blinked, leaning back from the venomous gaze. "Hey, what's the problem? I haven't seen you this upset since Miriel blew up the mess tent."

Robin softened his gaze. "It's… it's nothing, just thinking on how she's been doing. You already know I told everyone to give her some space, but I'm always worried. That and… I don't think she liked my present."

Stahl clicked his tongue. "Ah, we get to the heart of the matter. I don't see why she wouldn't like it, not after you went to so much trouble to get ahold of it."

Robin's voice grew melancholy. "I didn't just buy it, Stahl. I got it custom made from moonstone. The stuff's rare, but it's always been a stone of protection and I don't want her getting hurt."

Stahl's face morphed to a frown. "Oh… Well, I can be a messenger at least. I mean, if you don't know how to approach her that is."

Robin shook his head. "No…no this is something we need to figure out for ourselves. Thanks for offering Stahl, but I'll figure out what I need to say."

Stahl kept frowning. "Ok, if you're sure. Just… be careful, I guess. I mean, I don't think you two ever played while we were in the Outrealms this last time, so why not start there?"

Robin sighed. "Thanks, Stahl, but I'll do what I think is best."

He turned to leave but looked back one more time. "And don't worry, I always take advice to heart."

He looked forward and left the concerned paladin behind. He could see a cloud of sand rising on the horizon, but a quick glance to Cherche's position showed no emergency.

Hm, must be Frederick. I hope he's spotted that oasis, lest we run out of water these next few days.

The cloud soon resolved itself into Frederick's familiar silhouette, his face dusty from the sand. The frown he wore was deeper than usual, making Robin groan as Chrom stepped forward.

"What's the news? Are we near the oasis?"

Frederick nodded. "Indeed, we are but a few hours away. But…"

Robin frowned at Frederick before blinking. Why was there another man riding behind Frederick? What was that cloak doing between them? It looked crumpled up and rather bulky.

Chrom noticed it too. "And who are you, sir? Frederick must think you're important if you still have your guts."

The man shrugged. "Name Gregor, mercenary. Gregor running when big man in armor comes along. Asked if he could help Gregor get friend to safety."

Frederick sighed. "In other words, while I was scouting, I ran into Gregor here. He was fleeing from Grimleal, or at least the cloaks they wore indicated as much, with a bundle in his arms."

Chrom nodded. "And you did the chivalrous thing. Considering you're letting him here, I assume you've done the usual interrogation?"

Gregor groaned. "Big knight very thorough, Gregor assures. Grimleal originally pay Gregor, but Gregor kill them after finding out job."

Robin's brow shot up. "You killed your employers? Isn't that bad business for a mercenary?"

Gregor shrugged. "Eh, most time. But, Gregor only take good job, not kidnapping."

Chrom's eyes narrowed. "Kidnapping? Then that would make the bundle sitting between you and Frederick the target."

Gregor nodded. "Aye, on nose noble man. Gregor never steal life from someone that not deserve it, no matter the coin."

Robin nodded, he could respect that. "Hey, Chrom. Don't you think we need some more help?"

Chrom's eyes shot to Robin. "I'm not so sure. We know nothing of his skills or if he'd leave us for a better contract."

His eyes turned back to Gregor. "No offense."

Gregor shrugged. "Gregor take none. Is understandable, but so long as you pay and not hurt children, Gregor solid like rock."

Frederick spoke up. "I can vouch for his skills, milord. He slew three of his pursuers while carrying his load without so much as pausing."

Chrom was thoughtful. "Hm… Ok, Gregor, how's this? We'll pay you twenty gold as a trial run. Should you prove as good as Frederick says, we'll take you on as a full member."

Gregor laughed. "And what be pay for joining? Twenty gold good for any number of jobs, but what Gregor get for staying?"

Robin smirked, his mind thinking of their finances. "Oh, just one hundred gold a month."

Gregor's jaw met the ground. "That…Gregor accept."

Robin smirked while Gregor and Chrom shook hands, his eyes moving to the bundle of cloth that was starting to squirm on Frederick's horse.

"Ah, I see our other guest is waking up."

Frederick twisted in his saddle and pulled the cloth away, a vibrant green greeting the world. "Milady, please wake up. We've arrived."

A great yawn stretched through the air, small arms clad in pink and purple cloth stretching from the bundle. The green shook itself free of its confines to reveal itself as a mane of green hair that faded to yellow.

Finally, a face revealed itself, purple eyes shining from a youthful face and a slim circlet shining in the hot sun. "Oh, are these your friends?"

Frederick nodded. "Yes, they are. I'd like you to meet Lord Chrom and Sir Robin."

There were cries from the other Shepherds demanding they be introduced as well, but Frederick ignored them. "Milord, Robin, this is Nowi. She was the victim Gregor was originally charged to kidnap, but he helped her escape. She's incredibly important to the Grimleal, to the point I think they'll be after us before long."

Robin sighed. "Frederick, inform us of that earlier next time. Anyway, Nowi, are you ok? Do you know where your home is or where your family is?"

Nowi's cheerful visage fell away. "No… I was kidnapped soon after I hatched and I have no idea where I'm from or if my family still lives."

Chrom spotted the oddity first. "Wait, hatched?"

Nowi nodded, smiling at their confused faces. "Yep, hatched. Hold on, I'll show you why, it's pretty cool!"

She turned and hopped from Frederick's saddle, producing a simple green stone that shone when she clenched it. A great pink flower bloomed from the earth and swallowed the girl before bursting with a flash. When vision returned to the poor Shepherds, they beheld a great yellow-green dragon with short arms and legs contrasting its great webbed wings.

The dragon wore a smirk and Nowi's voice filtered through the air. "I'm a dragon! Cool huh?"

Chrom's jaw snapped back into place. "A manakete? Here I thought they'd long since died out."

A snort followed that statement. "And the taguel are supposed to be dead as well, yet here I am."

Panne stepped forward, gazing at the dragon curiously. "How odd it is to see another skin changer. But, I suppose you're the genuine article rather than the dragon tribe."

Nowi's head tilted. "Oh, another friend that can change shape. Hm… don't tell me… a bunny!"

There were chuckles from the peanut gallery, but a swift glare form Panne silenced them. "Yes, I am a taguel that wears the shape of a hare. Tell me, Nowi, how old are you? That will tell me whether you are genuine or not."

Nowi did a little loop. "Oh, I don't know the exact number, but I'm a thousand something. Gets to be kinda boring counting every year when I can have fun and explore."

Panne nodded. "Then we stand before one of the firstborn, or at least a true blooded descendent. It's an honor to meet you, Nowi."

The dragon flashed and Nowi was back in her human form. "Same! You guys look like a lot of fun too, can I come along?"

While Chrom contemplated, Robin had a question. "Excuse me, Nowi? Why are you dressed like that, aren't you afraid of burning up out here?"

Nowi looked at her clothes. She was rather exposed with strips of scale pattered cloth running from her neck down her sides and very short pants. Most of her torso was bared by the top, except the important parts after all.

She shrugged. "I'm a dragon, so it's not that bad to me. Besides, my boots are real long and the cloak I wear keeps the sun off just fine."

Robin shrugged. "Alright, if you're sure."

Chrom pointed at the cloak. "Isn't that yours, Frederick? The cloak, I mean."

Frederick wanted to answer, but Nowi beat him to the punch. "He gave it to me! He saw that I was, as you say, exposed and gave it to me. That earned him a peck on the cheek!"

Laughter abound through the peanut gallery as Frederick stared ahead stoically.

Gregor, forgotten by the others, laughed. "Ha! Gregor save you from life and death situation and all Gregor gets is kick to groin!"

Nowi smirked at him. "Oh? Would you like a peck on the cheek?"

Gregor immediately grimaced. "Gregor is thinking no. No want to be known as child molester."

Nowi pouted. "I'm not a child!"

Frederick had a sardonic quip at the ready. "You sure act as one, milady. I'm quite sure you and the others will get along just fine."

Nowi adopted a devious smirk. "Oh? Then, if I wasn't a child, I wouldn't be treated like one?"

Robin spoke this time. "That's how it normally goes. Why?"

Nowi's smirk became evil and eerily like Lissa's expression when she'd set up a prank. The stone in Nowi's hand blazed to life again, the light blinding everyone. When sight returned, even more jaws fell to the floor.

Nowi had, for lack of a better term, grown up. Where once she was barely able to reach Robin's collarbone, she now looked him in the eye. Her face had sharpened and become more mature, her originally long ears growing even longer and sharpening to points. Her body had, well, filled out well, not to the point of good old Sumia, but she put the court ladies to shame. Finally, her hair had grown to nearly brush the ground.

Nowi smirked at the jaws on the ground. "So, am I still a child?"

Her voice was more mature too, but it had a hint of childish mischief that seemed to define her. Robin and Chrom just shook their heads, deciding to drop the sight before them. After all, despite the visual spectacle, there had been the sound of marching growing closer for several minutes.

Frederick spoke. "Uh, ahem, milady. Would you be so kind as to close your cloak? I fear your current attire is… unsuited for you as you are."

Nowi frowned and glanced down, squeaking when she saw her chest straining the fabric she wore. The cloak swiftly hid the sight and she turned back to Frederick. "Thanks."

Frederick nodded. "It is no issue. Any gentleman would avert their eyes from the sight."

Nowi smirked and pulled herself back into the saddle, shooing Gregor from his seat. She settled into the saddle and wrapped her arms around Frederick's waist. "Well, I need to thank you then. But first, what are we going to do about those guys running at us?"

Every Shepherd snapped their gaze to the horizon, groaning at the wave of warriors in dark purple cloaks stampeding towards them. Robin fired off commands immediately, a ramshackle defensive line swiftly put in place. Luck would have it that they were on flat terrain, but Sumia couldn't use her ice in the intense heat while wind magic would only stir up irritants for both parties.

That left fire, lightning, and holy light-something four of them happened to specialize in.

Robin gathered his fellow spell casters, Miriel, Lissa, and Cordelia. He was thankful Cordelia was leaving whatever was causing the distance between them behind, but that didn't mean he was happy about it. "Ok, we need to remove as many of them as possible. That means Bolganones for you, Cordelia."

She nodded, tapping the burning red tome belted to her waist.

He turned to Miriel. "Miriel, we need Valflame on every heavy concentration you can find. They don't seem to have heavy units since the sand makes it hard for them to move, but target wisely. I don't want you catching one of us in the blasts."

Miriel pushed up her spectacles. "Your lack of faith disturbs me, Robin. Have I not proven my skill with this tome?"

Robin rolled his eyes. "I don't doubt your skill, I doubt your single-minded determination. Anyway, stay in the middle like planned. I'll take the left while Cordelia takes the right. Is that clear?"

They nodded and left, leaving Robin with Lissa. "Lissa, are you ok? You haven't used the Book of Naga since you came back with Donny."

Lissa looked away. "I'm fine. I just… want to do something else, is all."

Robin frowned. "Lissa, I hate to say this, but we need that magic. You and I both know every Shepherd here is worth damn near a legion, but we can't tire ourselves out here. Think of Emmeryn, think of the people, think of your friends."

He took her hand in his. "Please, do what you can."

Lissa was silent. She'd told no one of the voice that had spoken when she'd killed those bandits and saved Donnel's mom. It was… just too crazy to hear something call her an arbiter of Horakhty, the creator of light. She'd likely be locked in a room for the rest of her life if she said anything.

"Lissa," Robin tried. "Come on, talk to me. Can you, or can you not? We don't have much time."

Lissa pulled her hand away. "I… I'll do it. Where do you need me?"

Robin pointed to the middle of the line. "You and Miriel are going to work together. Whatever her blasts don't kill, you erase. I'll be handling the left with Cordelia on the right. If it looks like we're about to be overwhelmed, help the side in most dire straits."

Lissa nodded. "Got ya. Ok, talk later, bye!"

She took off running, leaving Robin steaming. She was hiding something, he knew it, but it likely wouldn't come out until Emmeryn was back on Ylissean soil.

Hs sighed and took his position, smirking as the enemy finally got close enough to make out details.

Their dark purple clothes had several purple lines racing through the cloth, some eerily like the purple marks on Robin's own clothes. That meant one thing: Grimleal.

Hm, let's see if these fanatics have a leader. Take him out and they should scatter.

"Kill the interlopers! Offer their life force to the Great One! But do not harm the scion of Naga, she is to remain alive until properly prepared!"

The insane screams from the back of the Grimleal fighters marked the leader. Robin couldn't see them, but he had to focus on the screaming lunatics that were almost on top of them.

He narrowed his eyes and let loose the first spell. "Mjolnir!"

The tome in his hand shone gold and lightning rained from the sky, tearing a hole in the earth. Any Grimleal caught in the center burned to ash while the debris from the strike downed those around it. Pillars of fire erupted from the right and a great blast sent Grimleal bodies and limbs flying.

Just when the fighters thought they had a respite, beams of rainbow light burned forth and skewered them. Some even had the lights converge and explode within them, making a gory mess of the surrounding sand.

The sheer shock of the assault threw them into confusion, blades of legend soon joining the slaughter as the Shepherds sallied forth. Gregor, able to overcome his shock just a bit faster than the Grimleal, charged in and slew three Grimleal in three strikes, blood flowing from their sundered torsos.

He laughed. "Gregor not slow down, even when faced with youngsters!"

A blast of fire interrupted his cheer. A green dragon flew by followed by a bellowing knight. Gregor just watched them go. "Ah, they get along well. Gregor know they make great friends."

-Cordelia-

She was so glad to be in the fight. Finally, after waiting for weeks, she could exact vengeance on the Plegian pigs that had taken her captain and unit from her. She reveled in every blast of liquid fire and the hot blood that ran whenever her lance met flesh, a fiendish snarl twisting her features. Even when they tried to flee, she turned her fire and javelins on them, even when they begged for their lives.

They'd given her flight sisters no quarter and they'd find none with her either.

But, in her bloodlust, she failed to notice just how far she was pushing forward until she found herself surrounded. Each of them had axes and angry eyes, more than willing to avenge their losses on the red-haired woman. She hopped down from her perch on Theresa.

"Theresa, go."

Her Pegasus whinnied, but a look from Cordelia sent the winged horse into the air. She glanced around until the Plegians decided to do something, likely thinking she was a vulnerable damsel off the Pegasus.

But she was no mere damsel. The first learned that lesson when his attempt to take her head ended with a lance in his neck. The others charged in unison, but Cordelia whirled and leapt about them like she was possessed. She'd leap over one of them and drag the blade of Gungnir through their spine before grabbing the next one's head and flash fry their brain with a quick spell.

Eventually, all that was left was a hunchback man with a white cap gazing at her in something akin to rapture.

"Yes…you are the one foretold of in the scriptures! The only human worthy to hold the heart of our master!"

He cackled and lightning gathered around him. "That fool Validar may have been killed, but Garn told us everything. I may not be able to bring the vessel, but I can bring the master's consort this day."

Cordelia barely heard him, but even then, the words did not pierce the red haze surrounding her like a bloody cloak. Blood, boiled and vaporized by the fire she'd used, curled behind her like putrid wings.

The mage cackled again and lightning shot forth, eager fingers of light reaching for the angel of blood. Cordelia growled and met the bolts with gouts of flame, sprinting forward to take the man's head. But, her rage was so complete, so encompassing, that her strikes were sloppy and unrefined enough for the mage to dodge with ease.

He took his time as she swung, waiting for the proper moment. All it would take was one opening, no matter the strength of the woman facing him, for the battle to be decided.

Eventually, Cordelia grew frustrated enough to launch Gungnir at him, not caring that the move was easily seen and evaded. She just wanted him dead, the desire pulsing in her veins right up to the moment lightning invaded her skin.

Pain replaced rage and she screamed. Screamed for all her lungs were worth as every nerve in her body fired at once and her skin began to burn. It stopped after what seemed like an eternity, Cordelia fell to the sandy earth with her lungs on fire. The grit of the sand was like needles in her fresh wounds, her mind somehow still lucid amongst the pain.

"Hmm, a bit charred, but nothing our magic can't fix. We'll have to take care of that temper of yours, but you're perfect. Now then, I think you'll be fine without that arm of yours."

The mage's voice cackled with glee as a bright spear of lightning built over his head. Cordelia was just barely able to make out the glowing shaft, her reason finally defeating her rage.

A fool am I, for thinking that simple rage could ease the ache. And a fool further still for deciding to hide it from everyone, even Robin. Now… now my foolishness shall be met appropriately.

Her eyes closed, ready for the bolt to descend. But it was only silence that met her ears, as the pain finally overwhelmed her mind and she passed out.

-Night-

It wasn't until well after the sun had set that Cordelia finally came to. Her mind returned to a body wrapped in bandages and in enough pain to make her groan. No one answered the groan and, when sight returned, she could see why.

There was only one other person with her, the lump in the cot on her left said as much. Her vision was still bleary, but she could make out what looked like gold settle on the floor next to her comrade-in-injuries.

She blinked again and her vision finally settled.

What she saw nearly made her scream.

Robin was in the cot, that purple mop of hair unmistakable. He didn't have a blanket on, displaying the stained bandages tied around his torso. The darkest splotch originated under his arm, the site of a fresh wound that had likely taken time to heal.

Normally, the sight would only make her worried, except she knew, just knew, where the wound had come from.

He'd leapt in front of her, saving her arm and life at the same time. The energy had pierced through the weakest part of his armor and straight through the crook of his arm. Overcome with dread, she forced her stiff body to roll from the cot and she barely kept a scream in when the ground rushed to meet her.

Grimacing and whimpering, she used her one good arm to drag herself to his cot and pull herself up. She panted when she finally saw him, his face peaceful and serene. She almost thought he was in a deep sleep when she noticed something.

His face was very pale… not only that, it didn't look like he was breathing!

Panic consumed her and she pressed her head to his chest, searching for the sweet lullaby she knew and loved.

There was none.

Denial swiftly joined panic. "Robin… no, Robin, no!"

She grabbed at his shoulders and shook him, tears spilling from her eyes when his head lolled to the side. She tried slapping him, pinching him, anything and everything she could to try and make him wake up.

Robin did not stir.

Realization crept into her mind like a disease, her hands falling limply at her sides. She'd killed him. In the rush to exact petty vengeance on Plegians, she'd gotten her best friend killed.

Her hands flew to her head and she screamed, screamed for what felt like an eternity until her lungs could do no more. And even then, no one came to investigate, even as her mind cried for the comfort of someone, anyone, they did not come.

She was alone.

Her psyche could take no more. She'd failed everyone, before she'd even started trying, and her mind shattered.

Her dead eyes shot to a small table next to the cot holding the body of her friend. A pair of scissors glinted in the low light, a roll of bandages sitting next to them.

"Cut out the rot."

The voice that invaded her mind was so familiar. It was his voice, but with a slight rasp she could not place.

Her eyes focused on the scissors, even as the cadaver next to her sat up.

"Cut out the rot of your failure."

It was no suggestion. An order, to clean her honor and mind with but a small price. She reached for the cold steel.

Red eyes entered her vision, six of the baleful red orbs staring from both the eye sockets and the forehead.

"Do it, my bride. Cut out the rot of your blood and be the one who stands at my side."

She smiled, that sounded wonderful…

So she pressed down on the blades and cut, and cut…

And cut.

Ch End

Well, that happened.

I'll keep this brief since I'm currently in hiding, but what do you think of that?

Now to review responses!

Sugouxxx: Thanks for the support of GeromexCynthia! I hope to do the pair justice!

Goodralisk: The Shepherds are all a bunch of matchmakers, what can you do? *shrugs* As for Chrom, he'll gladly duel you next chapter, just lay down the terms

Strider Shade: Cynthia is pretty great isn't she? Also, yeah they're ALL going to notice the change, trust me. As for Project X Zone 2…

Lucina: I will gladly test my blade against yours when the time comes, good luck sir *bows*.

Choso2223: Thanks for all the praise and I hope this chapter lives up to expectations!