It's nice not to have a war to fight.

Severa: Why are we getting hitched?

Lucina: Indeed, that was most unexpected.

7: You need to relax, you're not actually getting married. It's Marth and Katarina, not Lucina and Severa.

Severa: That's splitting hairs, even if it does make me feel better.

Lucina: At least we can court properly. Though…how long is this portion going to be?

7: As long as I please, thank you very much. We'll see, I want to explore peace time more than I did in the original.

Severa: Just don't get too bogged down in fluff, we can only grow so much cotton.

7: I love my fluff and you know it! Anyway, let's get to the show!

Aftermath

It was quiet the morning after Gangrel burned.

The camp went about its business with little in the way of conversation, everyone suffused with a fog of exhaustion that had rolled in overnight. They had been going full-tilt, doing everything they could, for months on end. Now, with the crisis averted and the land at peace, their tired souls demanded rest.

Chrom may have been more than willing to grant that rest, but they needed to get home and hammer out the next few years.

The prince snorted as the realization passed through him. It would take that long to get everything back to the way it was, let alone beyond that.

"What's on your mind?" Lissa asked as they walked towards a wagon. "You've been quiet all morning."

Chrom smiled at his sister, placing the box of vulneraries she'd asked him to carry into the wagon. "Just thinking on how much work's still left to do. I hope Sumia's ready for that. Hell, I hope I'm ready for that."

Lissa sighed and patted his arm. "You and me both. I'll be doing anything you're not and I'll be dealing with all the noble ladies and their rumors. Well, the ones that weren't part of the rebels."

Chrom hummed and caught sight of Donnel hauling supplies to another wagon with Kellam and Gregor. "Those rumors wouldn't happen to be because of that thing you wanted to tell me, would it?"

Lissa sighed and hopped into the wagon bed, eyes flicking around. "Look, you can't say what I'm about to say to anyone, especially Maribelle. I want to let her get lost in some things before I break the news."

Chrom crossed his arms and nodded. "Please, go on. It's not every day you choose to share a secret with me."

Lissa sighed and put on her sternest face. "Ok, so, I know I've been harping on about your love life and the other Shepherds for a while."

Chrom gave her a flat stare. "Indeed. Robin informed me you apparently had some elaborate plan to get me and Sumia to confess to each other."

Lissa muttered an oath before continuing. "That aside, I've… kind of put myself in the same position. Not oblivious like you, but more what Vaike and Cherche are getting at."

"So, getting ready to date, but not quite." Chrom mumbled, internally laughing. "Who's the guy? I need to make sure he understands his position."

Lissa glared at him. "Oh no you don't. He's nervous enough as is, and I refuse to let you play the overprotective card. 'Sides, I'm pretty sure he's already proven himself."

"I think he has too." Chrom chuckled. "Mind lettin' me guess? I think I know who it is."

Lissa tilted her head, curiosity clear, until Chrom whistled at Stahl. "Hey Stahl, mind if I borrow Donnel?"

Stahl looked between Chrom, Lissa, Donnel, and the wagon he'd just finished filling before shrugging. "Go ahead, I want no part in this. You'll find me with Sully if all goes well."

He left and Chrom walked over to guide Donnel to them. Both Lissa and Donnel glanced at each other nervously while Chrom looked between them. "…So, to state the obvious, you were talking about Donnel."

The pair blushed and looked away. When neither spoke, Chrom sighed. "I admit, had you told me this before we first went to Ferox, I would've been completely against it."

He smiled at them. "However, I've seen Donnel's bravery personally and I've seen him defend you many times. He has a lot to learn if this is to work, as you likely know, but at the very least I'm glad you've been able to follow your heart."

Donnel and Lissa were shocked into silence, neither willing to believe Chrom would give his blessing so readily. Chrom decided he'd said enough. "Now then, I'll leave getting the ground rules set up to you. Just make sure you're not too public just yet, I believe everyone would like to get home and rest."

Chrom turned and strode away, ignoring the excited squeals of his sister as he went. There wasn't much left to do outside of pack the tents, so Chrom found his and began to work. A flash of light interrupted him, but he continued to pack his things. "What can I do for you, Emm?"

Emmeryn smiled from her seat on his cot. "I'm so proud of you, Chrom. You may not have been able to save Gangrel, but that was a beautiful thing you did. Also, thank you for letting Lissa live her life, even if it doesn't end up working out."

Chrom shrugged and closed his pack. "It's the least I can do. Lissa is her own woman, she can take care of herself, and I'm no animal. If I'm to learn from the past, and keep it from repeating, I must learn to leave it where it belongs."

Emmeryn stood and embraced him. "My little hero's all grown up. Engaged, soon to lead Ylisse, and letting reason speak with emotion on equal footing."

Chrom's hand gripped her arm, taking solace from Emmeryn's presence rather than the fake limb. "I still believe that you were a better leader than I can ever hope to be. I will try my best, but I'll need all the help I can get."

"And I will do all in my power to do so." Emmeryn whispered. "So will your friends and your love. Seek them out and you will find all you need to lead our home into the future."

Chrom sighed and freed himself from Emmeryn's embrace. "I will be sure to share the work, though leadership is my burden to bear. Thank you, Emm, it's all I can do not to run home this minute."

Emmeryn chuckled and began to fade. "Finish the rest of today's tasks and everyone can go home. I'll speak to you again after we are home."

Chrom nodded and she disappeared. Alone again, Chrom sighed and started working on his tent at large.

He needed to speak with Robin about a very important job.

-Robin-

Robin finished the last of his thoughts and closed the journal. He'd started recording the goings on of his mind soon after going to Ferox when he found his brain too disordered to focus on anything, even playing his trumpet.

Now though, he was wondering what he was going to do next. Yes, he wanted to court Cordelia to the best of his limited romantic ability, but he didn't have anything outside of the Shepherds that…paid. He also didn't have a house, many personal belongings, or even a history to claim as his.

Sighing, he stood from his desk and went back to his packing. It was obvious that everyone wanted to leave as soon as possible, so the delay to write likely wasn't appreciated.

"Robin?"

Robin looked to the flap of his tent and smiled as Miriel entered. "Miriel, to what do I owe the pleasure?"

Miriel hummed as she looked around. "I see you're still not ready to depart. You really should follow your paramour's example; such a mess reflects poorly on her."

Robin rolled his eyes. "Says the perennial mistress of superfluity. What do you need?"

Miriel huffed and adjusted her glasses. "I was able to find another cropping of explosive rock in the surrounding woods yesterday. Now that I have done a more complete analysis, it should be possible to find other deposits across Ylisse."

"But what use could we have for rocks that blow up when burned?" Robin queried. "I don't see a use for them aside from war."

Miriel shook her head and held up a pebble. "Not quite. The rock does explode when subjected to a sudden invasion of heat, such as a blast of fire. However, observe what happens when I slowly add lightning."

Robin blanched, but couldn't stop Miriel from activating her thunder tome. He expected a blast to burst his ears and scorch his tent, but that didn't happen. Instead, the pebble began to…glow, for lack of a better word.

Miriel nodded at Robin's hanging jaw. "As you can see, when subjected to a steady electrical current, the stone lights up. The more power I channel into the stone, the brighter it glows, but should I try and increase the power too quickly…"

Robin felt her magic surge and the rock burst.

"It breaks." Miriel finished. "I feel there's a way to harness this, but I require Chrom's permission to pursue this endeavor. Can I trust that you'll speak to him about it after we return?"

Robin hummed and cupped his chin. "I agree, it does warrant further study. But…why come to me? Surely you could have asked Chrom yourself."

Miriel adjusted her glasses and Robin felt her usual intensity relaxing a little. "The prince will be greatly preoccupied when we return, as will many of us. You are the most likely to see him while this goes on and thus the most likely to deliver the message in the near-future."

"I see," Robin sighed. "Thank you for bringing this up, I'm sure Chrom will be thrilled. I'll get my stuff together now, you can go."

Miriel sniffed, but left without another word. Robin shook his head and set about packing everything away until all his things were ready to move and the tent was rolled up.

"Finished at last." Panne noted as she walked by. "Your mate has been waiting for you to check in."

Robin rolled his eyes at the taguel. "Would you stop calling people each other's mates? None of this lot are married yet, unless Libra's been doing his duties behind my back."

Panne smirked at his considering face. "Pairs of taguels were always considered mates. We never had any of this…courting nonsense."

Robin raised a brow at her. "Our first conversation in a while, and this is what we're talking about? I assumed you'd be asking about safe places you could go now that the war's over."

Panne frowned, arms crossed over her armor. "I already have a place in mind. Prince Chrom informed me of a region in Surperius that's sparsely populated, close enough that he could still contact me. It will be a nice place to settle, if only for a time."

"You mean to live with Virion." Robin realized. "He was boasting about a lovely plot of land in a sparsely populated region of Surperius, but still close enough to reach a large town within a day. …Why?"

Panne sighed, her nose pinched in a futile attempt to ward off a headache. "Virion is… something else. Most of the others approached me out of curiosity, as I am a taguel and the first any of them had seen. It wasn't until later that they saw me simply as Panne rather than a taguel."

Robin nodded, internally ruing he'd tried to learn about the taguel before the woman. Being alone in the world when he first woke up, he should've been more sympathetic. "I do thank you for being willing to share. I know it wasn't easy being among us when humans have done such evil to you."

"No, it wasn't." Panne sighed. "It still isn't, to an extent. Virion though, was unique. He approached me because I was a woman that appeared lonely. I did not appreciate the chauvinism, but he made the distinction that I was a person before a taguel. I wish to see if that ability to see all as people remains, even in private."

Robin smiled at her. "I see. Well, he may be dramatic, but I think you'll see that he's a good man. Though, I do expect that you'll come visit Ylisstol from time to time, right? It's always a great time when you spar with us."

Panne smirked and waved her hand vaguely. "We'll see. I've liked my time with the Shepherds, I'd even say that you've become friends at that. I never thought it was possible, but here we are."

She turned and strode away. "I suggest you get moving. Your mate is likely impatient."

Robin scowled at her back. "For the last time, she is not my mate!"

Panne waved back the shout and Robin was left to stew for a moment. Panne was right though, so Robin grabbed his things and made for the gathering of wagons that would take them home.

-Cordelia-

"Is that everything?" Cherche asked as she placed her tent into a wagon.

Cordelia hummed as she looked over her list. All but one of the tents was accounted for and most of the supplies had been loaded. "We're still missing a few ration crates and Robin hasn't stored his tent yet. I sent Panne to go get Robin and Vaike went to grab the crates. We'll be ready to leave soon."

Cherche nodded and looked to the gathering of wagons. "If I may ask, what are you going to be doing now that the war is over? I'm sure your talents will be in great demand."

Cordelia sighed and placed her list on the wagon behind her. "I'll be going around and gathering the Pegasus Knights that remain. Our Order is in shambles, but it's not yet dead. After that, I'll be recruiting, training, and altogether rebuilding the Order."

She smiled shyly. "I'll also be seeing plenty of Robin. We've already made plans to visit the restaurant where we became friends for our first date."

Cherche chuckled. "That's very nice, though I hope duties won't keep the two of you apart too long. Heaven knows how busy we'll be and I know I'm not the only one without permanent living arrangements out of this lot."

Cordelia pursed her lips. "Now that you mention it, I don't own a home myself. I've lived in the Pegasus Knight barracks for several years now, but the thought never crossed my mind."

Cherche shrugged. "It's just a thought. Personally, I want to travel around Ylisse a little bit, see the sights. Do that for about, oh, six months before I try and find a home of my own."

Cordelia nodded, she could respect that. "Have you talked about it with Chrom or Vaike yet? You are part of the Shepherds, so the prince needs to give you leave. As for Vaike, well, you've worked with him long enough it'd be rude not to tell him."

Cherche bit her lip, not sure how to answer that. "I'll be sure to inform both Prince Chrom and Virion about my plans, but Vaike… I'm not sure how I could break it to him."

Cordelia crossed her arms. "How so? Yes, he's going to remain with the Shepherds, but that doesn't mean you can't just tell him. In fact, I'm sure he'll be more than happy to hear you've decided to travel since he'll get to run into you at some point."

Cherche sighed, pushing past Cordelia to take a seat on the wagon bed. "Cordelia… you know he has feelings for me, right?"

Cordelia took a seat next to Cherche, willing to let work go for now. "Of course, he's not subtle about it. Seeking you out at every opportunity, buttering up Minerva, he even got Frederick to teach him to waltz. Though… why do you ask?"

Cherche fidgeted. "Cordelia… I don't know how I really feel about him. There's so much potential in him, even if he doesn't show it, and I feel like we can grow to become great partners. I just… I just don't think he should choose me."

Cordelia stared at her friend, not seeing the problem. "Why? You're smart, you're kind, if scary at times, and you're one of the few that can calm Vaike down. Why wouldn't he fall for you?"

Her eyes narrowed. "Do you think he's not good enough?"

Cherche openly snarled at Cordelia. "Never say that again! He is a wonderful man, none here can deny that. He may not be the smartest, but he understands what it means to be considered worthless!"

Cordelia flinched back, not expecting the shout. Neither was Cherche, if her embarrassed face meant anything. Looking around, Cordelia called out to the startled Shepherds. "Don't worry, just some disbelief at what Cherche needs to do when we get back."

That mollified most of them, but a few kept curious eyes on Cherche nonetheless, especially Vaike. He couldn't speak to Cherche or Cordelia right then, but Cordelia could see him considering just dropping the barrel he was holding.

"Look, Cherche," Cordelia whispered. "I'm not going to pry into why you feel worthless, which is further from the truth than I could ever begin to imagine, but if it's true, then Vaike is a kindred spirit. You two may not necessarily be destined for each other, but you're close friends. At the very least, he deserves to know what you'll be doing."

Cherche stared at Cordelia with something akin to wonder. "Your words… you don't want Vaike and I to lose the chance. Like what almost happened with you and Robin in the desert."

Cordelia nodded, her hand rubbing the scar on her arm absently. "Exactly. Robin and I were lucky and we took the plunge even though we were unsure. By all rights, we have a bright future ahead of us, and I want that for you too. I want that for everyone."

Her other hand came to rest on Cherche's shoulder. "That's why you just have to try. Again, it can just be telling him what you're doing, but don't let fear leave you with regrets. Alright?"

Cherche smiled and pulled Cordelia into a hug. "Thank you, Cordelia. I'll be sure to talk with him later, but I need permission from Prince Chrom first. Also, your boyfriend's coming this way."

She broke the hug and hopped out of the wagon with a wave. Cordelia returned the wave before retrieving her list and looking to a sheepish Robin. "Took you long enough. Put the tent here, we just need to get the last of the rations put away and we'll be going."

Robin laughed nervously and placed the rolled-up canvas next to Cordelia. "Sorry about that, I was catching up on my thoughts. You ready to head back?"

"More than ready." Cordelia said. "But, you know me. Already thinking on things that need doing like finding the Pegasus Knight survivors, recruiting new members, and so on. I also need to get myself a proper house, can't just live in the barracks all my life."

Robin took her hand and squeezed gently. "Well, don't run yourself ragged. I want to make sure we have plenty of nights to enjoy together, especially over a good meal."

Cordelia leaned forward and rested her head on his hand. "You and food. I swear, you like eating almost as much as Stahl does."

Robin laughed and kissed her cheek. "Try eating roasted bear meat like your life depends on it, you get an appreciation for well-cooked food after something like that."

Cordelia kissed him, on the lips this time. "Rations are no fun either, may I remind. I hope we'll have a good time after we get back, but first things first."

She hopped from the wagon, hand still in Robin's. "Let's get everyone together and set out. I want to see how Sumia and Nowi are doing before we dive into the nitty-gritty."

Robin nodded and followed her, silently glowing at how comfortable Cordelia was with her affections. It was truly wonderful to see her so happy, especially after they walked by Chrom and a very small voice in the back of his head was silenced.

Cordelia never once glanced at the prince. Her every word had been truth and whatever doubts his own mind may have engendered withered.

Her heart was his and his hers, as they'd promised.

Now it was time to go and build the life they wanted.

-Sumia, Ylisstol-

"So…I bow first?"

Duchess Miranda sighed at Sumia, the poor girl mixing up the lesson once again. "No dear, that's not it. You'll be Queen of Ylisse soon, everyone bows to you, not the other way around. The only time you bow is in another royal's court. Now, try again."

Sumia sighed, but dutifully started the greetings again. It annoyed her that she hadn't actually learned anything to do with ruling yet, but she at least understood the importance of the etiquette she was going through. The last thing they needed was to insult any of the loyalists with Sumia's clumsy manners.

She cursed as she flubbed a greeting. "Duchess, can we move on to something else? I understand that manners are important, but we've been at this for hours."

Miranda sighed through her nose. "I suppose so. You've improved, but be sure to practice your greetings for foreign guests."

She placed the list she'd been reading from on a side table. "Now then, as you've told me you wish to be a more hands-on ruler when the time comes, I need to teach you about three things. Trade, logistics, and accounting."

Sumia was obviously confused so Miranda continued. "Trade is important for obvious reasons, it's the life-blood of the Halidom. Knowing how it functions and what goods go where is always important if you want to have a healthy economy. Logistics helps you understand both your own army and that of your enemies. If you know what it takes to field one, then you can track both your own army's progress and that of your enemies without over-extending."

Sumia was nodding along, so Miranda knew she was interested. "Accounting is, objectively, the most boring of the three, but it's also the most vital. It will allow you to better understand loans, funding, and other matters of finance. It's usually better to leave the busy work to a royal accountant, but knowing what's going on can help you spot flaws and negotiate with merchants."

Sumia nodded. "I see… when can we begin?"

"How about right now?" Frederick asked as he entered the room. "Forgive the interruption, Duchess, but I took it upon myself to borrow some simple documents pertaining to the topics you mentioned. They should serve as a good starting point."

Miranda stared at the knight before clearing her throat. "Well, I'm not the best teacher when it comes to these subjects, even if I'm versed them. I'll go find the head accountant and have them teach you, but I will be checking in from time to time."

Sumia smiled and bowed to Miranda. "Thank you, Your Grace. I know it's not easy to teach me so much."

Miranda rolled her eyes. "You're doing it again. Remember, I bow to you, not the other way around. If you wish to thank me, an appropriate spot at the celebratory feast would be quite enough."

She winked and left the room, Frederick took the vacant seat with a sigh. "She's very direct."

"She is," Sumia agreed. "But she's a great teacher, too. I didn't know half the things she told me, and we're still on the basics! It'll be a while before I can even remotely call myself a queen."

Frederick smiled at her. "Yet a queen you shall be. I always wondered if the day would come when milord would take the crown with you at his side, but I never imagined it would happen like this."

Sumia grew solemn. "Yes… I always hoped my mother and I could come to terms with each other, but now I'll never have the chance. I can only hope she's proud of me, wherever she is."

Grim air settled between them and Sumia tried to dispel it. "How's Nowi doing? Has she been taking well to her lessons?"

Frederick nodded, gaze tired for the first time Sumia could remember. "As well as she can. The healers have told her that she should stick to one form when not a dragon since the difference is so great between a child and an adult. Aside from that, she's making progress with a cane, but writing and eating by herself are still some ways off."

Sumia held back another sigh. "I see. I'm glad to hear she's at least making progress, it'll help put the others at ease too. My next question is, what are you going to be doing? Obviously, you'll still be serving Chrom, and myself, after our wedding-which is very weird-but what beyond that?"

Frederick smiled at Sumia. "Mostly, I will be training new recruits and coordinating with whoever milord designates the Shepherds' field commander. I will also fulfill my promise to Nowi and help her until she can be completely independent, though that will likely require me to be her live-in caretaker for a time."

Sumia smirked this time. "Really? Well, looks like you and Nowi are going to be a couple and housemates. Try not to make us host a wedding at sword-point, ok?"

Frederick glowered at her, though there was no heat in it. "I will always be a perfect gentleman with her. Nowi's sight was given in exchange for my life, it is only right I dedicate myself to her as best I can."

Sumia giggled at his answer. "That's just like you Frederick. Chrom is lucky to have you as his protector, and Nowi even more so to have you as a boyfriend. I hope your time together is as lovely as can be."

Frederick allowed a glimmer of a smile to cross his face. "As do I. In any case, I should return to organizing the castle guard. Nowi has been…insistent that I take her into town."

Sumia tilted her head. "What for?"

Frederick grimaced, next words the most unsure Sumia had ever heard from him.

"She wants to practice moving in public…as a couple."

Sumia couldn't stop herself. There was simply no way anyone would after discovering that Frederick got nervous with public affection.

For the first time in days, Sumia laughed without restraint.

-Nowi-

It sucked being blind.

Well, she shouldn't say that considering she was blind now, but it really put her day to day routine into perspective. Getting dressed was a chore of epic proportions, then she had to figure out where the door was, navigate the halls, and find a chair. Then came an entirely separate set of steps just to eat!

It was hard and Nowi found herself yearning for the ability to see normally regularly. She was able to steel her resolve with the reminder that Frederick lived because of her sacrifice and Frederick had done everything and more to help her.

"Milady?"

Nowi snapped back to reality, the voice of her personal healer breaking through the fog of her mind. "Sorry Natalie, where were we?"

A voice slightly older than hers sighed. "Milady, have you finally decided which form you're willing to take on permanently? We cannot proceed much further until you choose."

Nowi hummed and retreated to her thoughts again. She'd still turn into her dragon form, that odd sight she gained when touching Frederick followed her there, even though it was blurry, but she was stuck between the other two.

On one hand, she'd been in the shape of a child for centuries. It allowed her to play, wander, and altogether act as only a child can. It also made her far more approachable and people were always kinder to her as a child, not to mention she could fool around.

On the other hand, her adult form afforded her a great deal more respect and she could go and have fun with the adults. While it brought more danger with the mature body, it also let her be around people that were mature enough to understand her feelings and comfort her.

In the end, it came down to a simple question. If she was going to seriously pursue a relationship for the first time in her entire millennium spanning life, what did she want to be?

…When put that way, the choice was obvious.

"I will… remain as an adult. I've traveled the earth as a child for centuries, it's time for a change of pace."

Nowi could hear Natalie mutter 'centuries' under her breath. It was tiring to hear people get awed by her age and true nature, but Natalie at least kept herself professional. "So, now that that's out of the way, what do I do?"

Natalie hummed. "Well, first you should turn into your adult form. I know being a child helps with travel, but you need to be an adult and stick as one."

Nowi sighed and carefully reached into her pocket, the familiar comfort of her dragonstone right where she left it. A moment later she felt a rush of vertigo before it settled down and she felt her adult body ease into the chair. "Ok, now what?"

Natalie mumbled something before continuing. "Now that we know what form you're in, we need to carve you a cane so you can walk. After that, we'll continue teaching you all the basics until you have a home of your own. From there, a live-in caretaker of your choice will lead you through the house and familiarize you with it until you can navigate on your own. After that, it's life as usual."

Nowi felt herself frown. "That's… vague."

Natalie's voice was apologetic. "It's only a basic outline. It'll be a few days before we can start your treatment in earnest and you'll have to choose a caretaker too. When that's done, we can start getting you right again, ok?"

Nowi's frown turned to a smile. "Thanks Nat, you've been a big help ever since I got here. Mind being my friend, even after I finish?"

The gasp that followed made Nowi's grin widen. "M-m-milady! You are of Naga's own race, how could a humble healer like me ever be worthy-!"

Nowi sighed and shook her head. "Nat, enough of that. I am no divine being and I do not wish to be treated as one. Just be my friend, they're all I've ever wanted in the world."

She felt a hand in hers and Nowi knew that another friend had been made. "Thank you, and I, uh… already know who I want my caretaker to be."

A door opened and Nowi heard the clank of metal on stone. "Nowi? What's going on?"

Nowi smiled as Frederick's voice washed over her. "Just in time, Freddy. We have some things to talk about."

-Three Days Later, Chrom-

Arriving in Ylisstol once more, the Shepherds found a city in celebration. Each Shepherd was hailed as a hero in the streets, their caravan turning into a makeshift parade as they wound through the streets and to the palace.

Chrom and Lissa in particular were given entire cheers, many of the citizens dubbing Chrom the 'Ender of Madmen' while Lissa was called 'Saint'. Both knew that the titles were unlikely to stick, but they were embarrassed by the showing nonetheless.

At the gate to the palace, the Shepherds were greeted by Duke Dunwall, Duchess Miranda, Frederick, Nowi, and Sumia. Chrom spotted Sumia first and hopped from his spot at the front of the caravan, rushing forward to envelop Sumia in a tight hug and fervent kiss.

Wolf-whistles met the action, but Robin decided that if Chrom was going to do it, he may as well follow. Hopping from his wagon, he held out his hand for Cordelia. When she took it and her feet met the ground, Robin pulled her close and leaned her back in a passionate kiss of his own.

Even more whistles and cat-calls met that action and soon Kellam and Sully outdid them all with the most dramatic pose imaginable. Shame most people couldn't see Kellam do it, but it would live in the annals of Shepherds history forever.

Cordelia gave Robin a good smack for that stunt, but he wore a silly grin the entire way into the palace.

Chrom returned to his home hand in hand with Sumia, his fiancée happily updating him on what was going on and what had been decided in his absence. While everyone was certainly ready to celebrate the day away, a few things needed to be done.

Chrom sighed as he walked into the palace's central garden, the urn holding Gangrel's ashes in hand. He'd informed Sumia, Miranda, Dunwall, and Robin of his plans, but only Robin was ok with the idea.

"I still think this is an insult." Miranda muttered. "The Mad King is responsible for your sister's death, and great suffering besides. Why would you do him the honor of nourishing the orchid your ancestors planted?"

Dunwall grunted his agreement. "And the pear tree at that. Your mother and sister's favorite fruit should have purer soil than that urn of hate."

Chrom sighed. "As I said, Gangrel is as much a victim here as anyone. I do not deny his atrocities, and I do hate him as you do, but that is what led to the Purge. If I wish to follow Emm's example and avoid the mistakes of the past, I must be willing to forgive."

He looked both nobles in the eye. "As should you."

That cowed them, but Sumia strode to his side, stopping his march once again. "Chrom, I understand you wish to forgive, but is this truly what you want? That tree will hold more than pleasant memories of your family if you do this."

Chrom patted her arm. "I need it to, my love. I must remember both the good times and the bad times if I'm to be half the ruler Emm was."

Sumia nodded and let him pass. Chrom glanced around to see if anyone would try to stop him, but found none. Satisfied, he strode to the elder tree and knelt at its base. "Hello Mother, I know I haven't visited in a while, but here I am."

The tree was silent.

"Emm's gone." Chrom whispered. "I couldn't save her. She's still with us, in spirit, but I will miss holding her when I come home. We've suffered so much loss these last few months…"

A smile came to his face. "But not all is grim. I'm engaged to a woman I've long loved and Lissa has followed her heart to a young man I'm sure you'd approve of. I've grown closer to those in my company as well as seen it grow into a family all its own. I met my best friend in a field to the south and he's dating my fiancée's best friend as well. How funny that we should both fall for Pegasus Knights."

Chrom laid his hand on the smooth bark. "I hope you can understand what I'm about to do. These ashes may represent the suffering of our people, but they also represent a lesson that I'm glad to have learned."

He placed the urn on the ground and opened the top.

"From even the most horrid of acts… can come the most beautiful of things."

With those words, he poured the ashes into the soil of the tree, mixing it thoroughly with his own two hands. Satisfied, he retrieved a cup of water from the garden's fountain and wet the soil. "Grow well, good tree. You hold the lessons of great tragedy in your wood now."

He bowed his head in a brief prayer before turning and striding toward Sumia and the nobles. "Come, we have much to do."

They nodded and followed the prince, eventually reaching a large room in which sat an equally large table. Every seat was held by either a Shepherd, commander, guild-master, or someone of similar import. The head of the table had four seats open. Robin was seated immediately to the left of the head seat, the subsequent chair on Robin's left remained empty.

Chrom's entrance quieted the chatter, no one speaking until he'd taken his place between Sumia and Robin. Dunwall sat next to Robin as Maribelle was in the next seat on the left while Miranda took the seat on Sumia's right.

"Now then," Chrom said unto the room. "Let's address the biggest concerns first. There are still rebels among the lower nobility and clergy, how are we going to go about dealing with them?"

One of the women present, dressed in cleric robes, stood. "We would like to be the ones to remove the clergy that took part in this heretical revolt. Such greed and lust has no place in the church."

"The one you elected as Head Cleric was part of it." Libra noted. "We already have some names from the Bishop of Gariel, leave the matter of the traitorous clergy to the crown."

The woman stared at Libra before sitting. "Very well, if the bishop gave you the names. I simply wish the church to retain its good standing."

"Its standing is the least of your concern, madam." Chrom said. "The revolt's involvement went all the way to the top of the church. If we do a truly thorough house cleaning, your influence and very existence will be at stake. Considering the circumstances, I'll be installing Libra and the Bishop of Gariel as temporary heads of the church until you can review your practices and see to it this doesn't happen again."

The woman didn't look pleased, but she bowed her head. "As you wish, Exalt."

Chrom grimaced at the title, but moved on. "Then I leave the clergy in capable hands. Now, as for the nobles, we can again thank the Bishop of Gariel for the names of all the noble conspirators. In accordance with Ylissean law, their lands and titles are to be seized and distributed at my discretion. Question is, who's going to evict them?"

"I would like that honor, milord." One of the commanders volunteered. "My men and I have been eager to get back at the dastards for thinking Ylisse their oyster."

Sumia looked to him. "You're one of Duchess Catarnia's correct? Where is the good lady, we were expecting her?"

The man appeared sheepish. "She sent me as her representative, Your Highness. I was eager to run the rebels from the city, but I was ordered to remain in Grevis until we knew more."

Sumia hummed, but allowed Chrom to take over. "Would you mind if I assigned Duke Dunwall and his forces to assist you? I don't doubt your loyalty, but the sooner it's dealt with, the better."

The man bowed. "I'd be honored to have the duke with us."

Chrom nodded and looked to Robin. "Do you have the reports on Gariel?"

Robin sighed and gestured to the parchment on the table. "It's in there somewhere. To summarize, there's a lot of structural damage and casualties from Nowi's rampage. Part of the Grand Cathedral collapsed after she wrecked the arch and we were able to confirm that the corpse in the duke's estate was Carlan. Thankfully, the troops courtesy of Duchess Miranda were able to get this information with little trouble."

Miranda cleared her throat. "Yes, it seems almost all of the fanatics were brought here to Ylisstol. The more sensible commanders were left in charge and they swiftly agreed to cooperate. Mind, they've given the condition that Lady Nowi and Sir Frederick never step foot into Draconis ever again."

Every eye turned to Frederick and Nowi, the knight stoic answering for both of them. "I see no issue with such a condition. I do not wish to enter Draconis for the rest of my life after what occurred."

Nowi nodded. "Same, I don't want to be anywhere near that place. It'd be too painful for me and the people I hurt…"

Chrom plowed on to the next issue before anyone could start demanding Nowi pay for causing the damage. "As recompense, we'll use the jewels and gold that line the Grand Cathedral as collateral to repair the damage. I can't give lives back, but the church is known for their generosity in times of need. Now then, how are we looking in terms of trade and logistics?"

One of the guild-masters stood. "I represent my fellows, milord. Due to the short nature of the rebellion, trade wasn't disrupted to any significant degree. We may have lost a few hundred gold overall, but the loss can be made up with a temporary tax decrease."

"We'll discuss that in more detail later." Sumia said. "This is a general meeting, not a negotiation table. Now, the logistics please?"

Cordelia raised her hand, taking a parchment from Miriel. "We're still counting casualties, but it numbers somewhere in the thousands. Ylisstol may not have seen much conflict until the siege, but the Plegian invasion nearly wiped out the Pegasus Knights and greatly diminished our standing forces. At this point, Ylisse has three professional armies numbering two-thousand each, the militias barely double that."

One of the other commanders stood. "To add to that, we still don't have all of our supply lines put together. Sir Robin's work may have the merchants on board, but we have no way of distributing the supplies effectively at this time."

Chrom sighed and rubbed his neck. "Doesn't surprise me. Anything else?"

The room was silent as everyone looked through the parchment before them, but no one spoke after that. Seeing the meeting at its end, Chrom stood. "Alright, so our biggest issues as it stands are removal of the remaining rebels and restoring our armies and supply lines. I'd like everyone with more detailed requests to meet with me over the coming weeks, make an appointment with Miriel. For now, you're dismissed to your duties."

Chairs scraped on stone and chatter filled the air again as the attendees began to file out of the room. Chrom watched them go with a thoughtful frown, but pinned Robin in his chair with a look. Once everyone save Sumia, Robin, and Cordelia were gone, Chrom spoke. "Robin, I'd like to offer you something."

Robin blinked at his friend. "Offer what? You don't mean to make me your paper-jockey again, do you?"

Chrom cracked a smirk and Sumia giggled. "No, not that, I'll get actual clerks to do that this time. Instead, I'd like to offer you one of the titles that are up for grabs."

Robin's eyes widened in direct proportion to Cordelia's. "You… mean to make me nobility?"

Chrom nodded. "I do. You've done enough for even the lowest commoner to have been granted the title, why shouldn't I?"

Robin felt his head bow automatically. "Thank you… Chrom. I, uh…don't know what to say!"

Chrom smirked at him. "Don't get too excited. I'm giving you a small Barony in Felds to start with. You'll need to learn to manage that land before I can reasonably give you the title I wish to grant."

Sumia looked to Cordelia, who was silent. "Don't think you're being left out of this, Cordelia. It is tradition for the Pegasus Knights' Commander to hold a noble title, and you shall be no exception. Your lands are, conveniently, located right next to the ones Robin will be overseeing. Don't be surprised if you see them little though, you'll be spending a lot of time in Ylisstol."

Cordelia's jaw dropped for a moment before her mind caught up. "Then I give stewardship to Robin. My work will require me here at almost all times, I will be unable to effectively oversee the lands."

Chrom and Sumia smiled at their friends. All according to plan.

"Anyway," Chrom coughed. "We don't require either of you for the rest of today. I suggest taking this evening to relax and unwind. We'll have plenty to keep us busy in the future."

Everyone laughed in both amusement and nervousness. It may not have looked it on the surface, but there were many sleepless nights and headaches ahead of them. Robin and Cordelia excused themselves from the room, leaving only Chrom and Sumia.

A comfortable silence stretched between them, both glad for the quiet after the past weeks, but Chrom broke it. "Sumia… I'd like to fulfill my promise now, if you don't mind."

Sumia titled her head. "What promise? Far as I'm aware, you've done everything for me and more. Especially with my bald and scarred head getting all the looks."

Chrom was grateful she was taking the situation so well. "I told you when we got back, we'd finally get your boots fitted right. It's time to make it happen, and with boots fit for a queen."

Sumia's eyes lit up and she hopped over to Chrom and embraced him. "Thank you-thank you-thank you! Maybe now I won't trip in the damn things!"

Chrom chuckled and rubbed her back. "Let's go see the cobbler. You'll need a whole new set of shoes if we're to do anything remotely correct."

Sumia squealed in delight and dragged Chrom from his seat.

"What are we waiting for?"

-Robin-

It wasn't every day you were given a Barony and stewardship of another Barony within minutes of each other.

Robin sighed as he walked down a hall of the palace, Cordelia at his side. "That was a surprise. I may have been the unofficial secretary of the royals before the war started, but who says I can rule anything?"

Cordelia smiled at him. "You help keep the Shepherds in order, a task I doubt even a competent count could pull off, let alone a baron. You'll be fine, just make sure to ask if you ever need help with something. Most of the Feldian nobles are pretty genial, with some notable exceptions, so you should be fine."

Robin glowered at her. "Says the one that pushed her lands on to me. I know you'll be busy, but if you're just going to hand them over we may as well merge them."

Cordelia laughed. "That is an entire process you do not want to go through right now. My family was part of a land merger once and it took months to get everything in order."

Her hand found Robin's. "Besides, we're supposed to relax, right? We're in Ylisstol, there's celebrations going on everywhere, it's a perfect night."

Robin's hand squeezed hers. "Then how about we meet in the main square at sundown? We'll go get a nice meal, wander the celebrations…"

Cordelia pulled him into her, chin resting on his shoulder. "And we can play the night away."

Robin wrapped his arms around her, glad to know no danger hung over them now. It may come in the future, as all things may, but this was just him and her.

Cordelia pulled away first. "Well, I need to go get my things put away before getting ready. See you in a few hours?"

Robin pecked her nose. "I'll see you then."

Cordelia smirked at him before leaving. Robin remained in his spot until long after she was gone before letting a horrified grimace cross his face. "Shit, I don't have anything nice! The cloak, yes, but nothing else!"

His conundrum was likely blown out of proportion. He was planning to take her back to The Melting Pot as agreed and it wasn't exactly a formal establishment. Even still, it would be his first actual date and he wanted to do his best!

Decided, he ran to the Shepherds' barracks, avoiding well-wishers all the while. Once there, he rushed to his room and dug through his things before finding his purse. "Alright, I know my sizes, so let's see if a tailor's open."

Robin ran out into town, not knowing that Cordelia was… similarly worried.

-Cordelia-

"Where is it?! I know I left it here, there's no way it could've been found by the rebels or the Plegians!"

Cordelia was amid a mild panic. While she did have a few hours to get ready, she knew from experience that taming her hair would take up a good chunk of that time. Instead, she was trying to hunt down a gift her parents had sent her shortly before meeting Robin.

Throwing a spare set of pauldrons across the room, Cordelia groaned. "Why isn't it here?!"

She turned back to her mess of a room and began to dig again. She may not have her original idea, but at least she still had her casual dress. Taking out the simple white dress, she stripped off her armor and made for the baths.

It was always best to be fresh, and she hadn't bathed in days with all their travel.

-Robin-

"Thank you!"

Robin jogged out of the tailor with a relieved grin. He hadn't been able to procure something he felt appropriate, but the shopkeeper had been able to get him a nice shirt and pants. He'd be wearing his normal boots and cloak though, so he needed to get back and polish everything!

Ignoring anyone that called to him, Robin made the barracks in record time. After placing his purchases in his room, he set to polishing and oiling his cloak and boots. That took him a good half-hour before he was satisfied.

After that, he bathed, shaved the small stubble that had begun to grow on his chin, and patted on some lavender oil. It was good for both scent and burn from what Libra had told him, so all the better!

It never once crossed his mind that he was going to great lengths for something so simple, but he still dressed carefully and made sure everything was in order before sitting down and looking out the window.

"Wow, I have another hour at least."

Realization crept in that the time would be spent fidgeting and if he tried to read he'd likely forget what time it was. Thus, in interest of not angering Cordelia, he took his time walking to the main square.

"Yo, Rob!" A voice he recognized as Gaius called. "What's with the new duds?"

Robin glanced down at the simple white shirt and blue vest he was wearing under his cloak, the pants a dark navy. "Well, I'm going out. Cordelia and I wanted to have a fun night before we got buried in work."

Gaius clicked his tongue. "Ah, well just so you know, you may run into some of the other couples while you're out there. Nowi in particular was very interested in getting out with Frederick."

Robin hummed. "Well I hope they have a good time. I should be going though, I promised to meet Cordelia at the main square soon."

Gaius waved and left, Robin caught a wink thrown his way before the assassin was out of sight. Robin decided it wasn't worth it and made his way to the main square. As expected, the entire square was a big party and everyone was taking part with unimpeded joy.

Robin took a seat in a quiet corner and kept his eyes peeled. It was almost the meeting time so Cordelia should arrive soon.

After a few minutes, the voice he was waiting on met his ears. "Robin?"

Robin glanced up and felt his jaw drop. "Cordy…?"

Cordelia smiled at him, eyes sparkling. "The one and only. New clothes though? You shouldn't have, it's just a night out."

Robin felt his tongue refuse to move. Cordelia was dressed in the white gown he'd seen her in when they'd played in Ferox, though a lavender ribbon was tied around her stomach this time. Equally white shoes were strapped to her legs, skin allowed to breathe after being confined in riding boots for weeks. Finally, her hair had been miraculously tamed, the crimson locks pulled back into a low ponytail.

"Wow," Robin uttered, slack-jawed. "I knew you were beautiful, but damn. I feel like a troll next to you."

Cordelia giggled. "That's kind of you, but I'm not the only one to work hard, am I?"

Her hand came to his cheek. "You're very handsome, and thank you for putting in all the work. It's not the most formal occasion, but I love it."

Robin's hand came up and stroked her hand. "Shall we go? I think tonight's going to be great."

Cordelia nodded and looped her arm around his when Robin stood. "I think it'll be a great night too."

They strode into the city, making their way to The Melting Pot and the fun to come. When looking back, years later, they would always agree on what that night was.

One of the best of their lives.

-Severa-

"I am amazed at how little this all went to plan."

Nods were her answer, the group of time travelers cantering down a road in Felds. How'd they get here from that night in Surperius, you may ask?

Well, the idea for the marriage went just fine, Lucina had the certificate sitting in her pack at that moment. It wasn't much of a ceremony, to put it lightly, but Marth and Katarina were officially husband and wife.

Problem was, they found out that the land they were going to construct the cabin on was not only owned, but its owners had returned while the group was at the church. With that avenue closed off, they'd attempted to leave, only for one of the guards escorting the landowners to recognize them.

That had led them on a merry chase that forced them into Felds. Severa and Morgan were happy to be back in their home state, but they needed to find a place where Robin and the Shepherds were unlikely to find them.

"You know," Morgan muttered. "It wasn't my fault they got so pissed about the logs. Lucy was too caught up in her little fantasy."

Lucina sighed from behind Cynthia. "I already apologized for that. I didn't think I'd get the idea of building a home on that specific spot so dug into my head. Besides, we were all belligerent with how condescending they were."

Cynthia grunted her agreement. "Aye to that. Jerks wouldn't even let us rent. Though…"

She glared at Severa. "Did you have to set the forest ablaze to prove your point? That's not something easily forgiven or forgotten."

Severa pouted. "I got mad, ok? Why do you think we left in such a hurry, just because the guard recognized us? Anyway, where are we again?"

Lucina pulled out a map. "We are… right next to the Lightwing Barony. I believe Commander Phila was the baroness of this one, so its headless right now."

Severa smirked. "Then they won't mind some new residents. I know for fact no one really lives here since the Barony's small, we should be just fine."

"It also happens to be right next to what will be the Volk Barony." Lucina noted. "We'll need to choose somewhere well away from your old house."

Severa shrugged. "Not a problem. Daddy didn't get the dukedom until shortly after I was born, so we should be fine. Let's just be subtle and they'll leave us alone."

"Subtlety is far from our strong suit." Morgan snorted. "If anything proves it, it's that blaze."

Severa rolled her eyes. "Yeah-yeah, rub it in. Anyway, let's turn north at the next crossroads. That'll take us into Lightwing and we can get to work."

"It'll be a change, for sure." Lucina chuckled. "Mysterious saviors against the Risen, and we've already saved our parents a few times at that. Maybe they'll start writing songs, right dear?"

Severa blushed. "Please don't call me that when we're not using our fake names. You can call me your girlfriend, but we're not actually married."

Lucina smiled at her. "I know, but seeing you get flustered for anything that doesn't make you angry is a rare treat. I plan to milk it for a while."

"Sweet Naga, would you two stop flirting? It was one thing with your heads in the dirt, now it's just sickening!" Cynthia gagged.

Lucina started pinching her sister's cheeks so Severa spoke to Morgan. "You still have the hatchets?"

Morgan patted her saddlebags. "Yep, all ready to make our new home. Though, uh… would it be ok if we dropped in on the old house from time to time?"

Severa sighed. "I don't think so. Let our parents live their lives while we live ours. We'll see them on a more permanent basis after Valm comes, but who knows when that'll be? Just give them time, we'll see the house eventually."

Morgan nodded. "Alright… is your back still ok?"

Severa sighed and absently rubbed the spot. "It is, so far. I still don't know if what Tharja said was meant to help, but I don't have the time or the ability to go find Mr. Henry. I'll live, just like always."

Morgan frowned, but didn't press. "Alright… by the way, you'll actually help build this thing, right? You won't pretend to have other things to do just to skip out?"

Severa had the audacity to look scandalized. "Morgan! When have I ever skipped out on helping?"

Morgan glanced at her sister. "There was cleaning the living room, helping with dinner, building the tree house, passing your guard rounds on to Owain-"

Severa hushed her, glancing to Lucina desperately. When she was sure Lucina hadn't heard, Severa looked back to her smug sister. "You've made your point nose-bleeder. I'll help, and by Naga it'll be the best cabin ever made!"

Morgan laughed at the boast and they went back to their normal banter, none aware of the figure watching them from the crest of a hill.

"My daughters." The voice whispered. "Oh, how I wish to bring you into my embrace again. I have a queen beside me, but it is not complete without my princesses…"

The air rent with the crack of thunder, but the figure did not move. "You do not control me, Fenrir. I may come and check upon my progeny should I wish."

The monstrous wolf behind the figure snarled, teeth of lightning bared. "You do not get to speak of progeny, parasite! I may be unable to erase you from this world, but you are forbidden from these lands. Begone, lest the pact holding me back be breached!"

The figure shook its head. "I will be gone momentarily, wolf. I know what my role in this is, but can you not spare some sympathy as a father yourself?"

"You are no father!" The wolf howled. "Enslavement or death, that is all you offer! Begone!"

The figure huffed before taking one last look at the time travelers. "Very well. I am forever patient, and I shall have my family again."

The figure disappeared followed by the wolf, its last words carried on the breeze.

"And we will rule this world far better than so-called gods."

Ch. End

Well, that was a doozy of a chapter.

Mostly in length, admittedly. Though it's not my longest, even if not too much happened I hope it set up our sojourn into peacetime well.

Now, as I am a tired writer, I'll get straight to the review responses.

Jayzus de Omni: I'm glad you enjoyed the change with Gangrel and the chapter as a whole. While I certainly agree that I had to condense the plot for everything to fit again, that will hopefully change as I explore peace before Valm hits. Hope you enjoy this one too.

Verdin Grey: I am by no means a veteran writer, nor am I the type that tends to go into great emotional depth. I'm not a fan of such sad and depressing topics and such insights have been done both before and better. As such, I'll stick to what I have for now, but I will seek to improve as the story goes on.

Warrior of six blades: I'm glad you're all caught up and that you enjoyed how I handled Gangrel. The story is likely going to cross into the territory of 500K+ words when all is said and done, so I hope you'll stick with us all the way!

I hope you all enjoy the chapter and that you have a good rest of your day!