Ok, so, who's up for more fun times? We'll be seeing some time leaps every once in a while, so everyone knows, but this next part of the story will be exploring several characters in peace time. The big ones are Robin, Cordelia, Nowi, Sumia, Chrom, Gaius, Panne, Cherche, Vaike, Severa, Frederick, Lissa, and Libra. It may seem like an odd assortment of characters, but everyone above will be interacting with everyone I didn't mention.

The big ones are there for a reason, so I hope you'll all enjoy this next part of the story! Don't worry, we won't be doing a chapter a person, we'd be here forever. We're just going to look into their lives as the years pass and events change.

First Steps

Several days after the celebrations and revelry came to an end, the Shepherds descended intothe palace dungeons. None had been to this place before, but all walked with grimaces and barely constrained anger.

The sentence of Catherine would be given today, her fate hanging on Frederick's words.

Frederick himself was still of mixed feelings on the matter. While he could commend his sister for following her oath, doing so had put both Chrom and Nowi in mortal peril. Frederick did not care for his life so long as those two were safe, but Gaius had called him to the infirmary the night before.

Standing beside the assassin's bed, Frederick listened as Gaius recounted what Catherine had told him. Frederick had no idea his parents had been so… neglectful to his sister and he cursed his own sense of decorum for driving her further away. While her actions were unforgivable, Frederick could certainly understand what drove her to them.

A squeeze on his hand pulled Frederick from his thoughts. "Yes, Nowi?"

"Shouldn't your parents be here?" Nowi whispered. "We just left them in the main hall."

Frederick shook his head, picturing the stern facades of his parents. "They want nothing to do with this. Catherine is no longer part of the family as far as they're concerned. She'll be stripped of her surname and struck from the family ledger."

Nowi hummed, her steps slow and careful. "Actually… what is your surname?"

Frederick pushed back a smile. It was nice of her to ask, especially since Frederick had insisted she be there regardless of how long they took to reach the dungeon. "Well, I was given the opportunity to take a surname after I was knighted and chosen as Chrom's personal guard. My original family name is Blackridge, but my new one is Caomhnóir."

Nowi tilted her head, curiosity shining through closed eyes. "What on earth does that mean? It sounds like a wine. A super pretentious wine."

"It means 'guardian'," Frederick sighed. "I chose it because it was the title given to the royal guard back when Ylisse was founded. It… inspired me."

He glanced at Nowi's smiling face. "Now that I think about it, can't you see while holding my hand?"

Nowi chuckled nervously. "Well… let's just say calling Lissa a bright spot is no exaggeration. Besides, I need to get used to having my eyes closed, being blind and all."

Her tone was light, but Frederick heard the small crack at the word 'blind'. It still stirred his anger that Nowi had been forced to such lengths because he hadn't been cautious, hadn't lived up to the moniker Chrom had given him. It also stirred something warm that she cared enough to give up something so precious so he could live.

"We're here." Chrom intoned. "Frederick, her cell is at the end of this hall on the right. We'll be here, as you've requested, but do not hesitate to call us."

Frederick looked away from Nowi to find every Shepherd gazing at him. "I will, milord. Thank you for allowing this."

Chrom sighed, hand finding Sumia's. "I don't like it, but you've done enough for me to grant this favor. Frankly, you deserve more."

Frederick shook his head, but Sumia interrupted any answer. "Don't try and turn such praise away, Frederick. All of us know and appreciate your duty and work, it's why we call you friend. I wouldn't have lasted in the Shepherds were it not for your patience in training."

"She's right." Sully echoed. "You made me pull my head out of my ass. Got me serious about my training and look at me now. We owe ya more than we can repay, so let us do this much."

Her sentiments were echoed by every Shepherd that Frederick had trained, even Vaike.

"Thank you," Frederick said, humbled by the support. "It has been my pleasure to serve the Shepherds and I look forward to continuing my service in the years to come. Though it may not be with you band of rowdy apes."

That received a number of low chuckles.

Frederick sighed and let go of Nowi's hand. "Now then…"

He strode forward, past the encouraging gazes of his compatriots, liege, and love. Frederick could hear low whispers as he distanced himself from the Shepherds, but he kept his eyes forward.

Frederick slowed his steps as he approached the cell Chrom spoke of, making sure his boots clanged against the stone floor. With a deep breath, he took the last step and gazed into the cell. "Sister."

Catherine's head rose, stained bandages wrapped around her shoulder and cheek. "…Frederick."

"I have been told to decide your fate." Frederick stated. "As you know, treason demands death."

Catherine scoffed, hand running through her ratty hair. "I know, it's just the manner of execution. Got something creative in mind, or are you bland as ever?"

Frederick's breath exploded from his nose. "I want to know why you never came to me with your grievances. Gaius has already shared why you chose to side with the rebels, but I want to know why you never considered asking to meet."

"Why do you think?" Catherine growled. "You were so wrapped up in caring for the royal brats any letter would've been ignored. We both hold our loyalties too sacred to let something like family get in the way of it."

Frederick shook his head. "While that may have been true when I started, I believe you should have done so anyway. But, that is in the past… tell me, have they informed you of what happened to Meredith?"

Catherine shook her head.

"She was taken by a Plegian mage." Frederick answered. "Though 'escorted' may be more appropriate. Prince Chrom discovered her attempting to break into the Royal Archives with dark magic before the Plegian arrived and took her away. She's likely dead."

He could almost hear Catherine's teeth grind. "Then I have failed in my duty. Tell me my death, Frederick, and leave so I may mourn."

Frederick took a deep breath before sighing. "Your sentence… shall not be death."

Catherine shot from her spot in the cell and banged on the bars. "What are you saying?! Treason is to be punished by death, and my failure should lead to it twice over! Is this your way of paying me back for Draconis? I never ordered you tortured!"

Frederick's brow shot up. "Truly? Well, that makes it all better, doesn't it?"

He turned around and waved his hand. "No, your sentence is something I believe to be more … fitting."

Catherine snarled at him, but held her tongue as the sound of boots grew close. A moment's silence revealed Chrom and Nowi, the prince glaring at Catherine. "Have you decided her fate?"

"I have," Frederick nodded. "She has no liege now and wishes for death. I will grant her something worse, so long as Nowi agrees."

Chrom looked to Frederick, intrigued. "Oh? Nowi, will you agree to what Frederick has in mind?"

Nowi hummed, fingers tapping on her temple. "Well… sure, why not? I'm blind because of her, so I'll let Freddy do his thing."

Catherine couldn't help a snort. "Freddy? Oh, how the mighty fall before their lovers."

Frederick ignored her and nodded at Chrom. "Fetch Tharja and see if my father will grant me the family blade. We'll be through with this before long."

Chrom narrowed his eyes, but left to retrieve Tharja. A barked order sent Stahl racing to the surface, but Frederick ignored the commotion in favor of Catherine and Nowi. "You're both no doubt curious as to what I have planned."

Nowi nodded. "Yeah, why do we need Tharja? You don't plan on using her in some kind of weird ritual, do you?"

Frederick cracked a grin. "Of course not."

"Then what?" Tharja asked as she joined them. "I fail to see what you'd need me for if not that."

Frederick shrugged and looked to the steaming Catherine. "Simple, I require that you bind her with a curse that makes it so she cannot harm another, unless her liege is in danger."

"I have no liege!" Catherine screeched. "Your prince saw to that!"

Frederick grinned. "Why, of course you do."

He gestured to Nowi. "She's right here."

Nowi gaped, struggling to process that, while Tharja started giggling wickedly. "That's brilliant. I'll throw in a few more lines to cover any loopholes, but I assume you don't want total obedience?"

Frederick nodded, keeping his eye on Catherine who was too angered and shocked to speak. "Correct."

He strode forward and looked Catherine in the eyes, cool stone against raging emotion. "If there's one thing we share, sister, it is our hatred of failure. My sorry state and failure of both Chrom and Nowi are punishment enough, but you… I feel that there's still something in you that can be saved."

Frederick leaned back as Chrom returned, a jeweled sword in hand. "Were it anyone else, I would have you beheaded. But, I will deny your wish for death and instead give you new purpose. In this, you shall be either redeemed or made to suffer beyond measure."

He took the sword from Chrom. "A most fitting punishment, Catherine."

Catherine continued to growl and snarl at him, fresh red staining her cheek, before the fire extinguished as she realized death was not her destiny. "…I am at your mercy. I have enough sense and pride left to know when I am beaten."

"Wait, can I say something?" Nowi interjected, face twisted in thought. "How would this even work? I mean, I've literally never had anyone swear an oath to me, not once!"

Frederick shrugged. "It's quite simple. Catherine shall swear her life and support to you until either the oath is released or one of you dies. As I intend to make sure you never leave this plane until you so wish, it's a lifelong pact. Tharja will place a few binding curses to make sure Catherine's not being clever."

Nowi nodded, ignoring Tharja and Chrom discussing the ingredients the dark mage needed. "Ok… so what do I do? If it involves that sword you mentioned, I may end up slicing something I shouldn't."

Frederick chuckled. "Don't worry, I'll lead you through it. Milord, are we ready?"

Chrom sighed and shrugged. "The curses will need to come later, we don't have worm hearts. You can do the oath, so long as we keep your sister under guard until Tharja does her work."

Frederick nodded and looked back to the curious congregation. "You can join us, my friends. We require witnesses."

The Shepherds rumbled down the hallway, they began muttering in disbelief when they found Catherine still breathing and Frederick guiding Nowi into what most recognized as a commendation ceremony.

"You wish to make this traitor Nowi's vassal?!" Maribelle objected. "She's responsible for both Nowi's blindness and the scars that mar your body, Frederick!"

"'Tis quite odd." Virion agreed. "What made you decide such recourse was necessary?"

Frederick smirked, though the action was tired. "She wished for death. I simply refused to grant it and will bind her in something that will keep her from seeking it. Either redemption or suffering, that is the price for her zealotry."

Sully cackled. "That's great! Oh boy, it's fun seeing that sadistic streak getting used on someone else!"

"Hear-hear." Kellam muttered. "I'll keep her under guard though, just to be safe."

Gaius chuckled, Libra supporting him alongside a crutch. "I like it, good job."

"Hush you," Maribelle scolded. "You shouldn't even be out of bed. Frederick, are you sure? What about you, Sumia?"

Sumia smiled and scratched her scalp. "I see no issue, and neither does Chrom. Go ahead."

"I'm quite sure, Maribelle." Frederick answered in turn. "Robin, Cordelia, would you be so kind as to undo the lock and Catherine's bindings? If she tries to attack, I'll slay her immediately."

"As if she'd get far." Vaike scoffed. "You got Teach and Cher here, she wouldn't make it one step."

Panne added her two cents. "Not even half a step with all of us. Though I believe we have nothing to fear, at least today."

She pointed into the cell where Catherine had already taken her place in supplication, her form oddly serene compared to the earlier rage. Robin walked up to the cell and pulled out a set of keys. "I grabbed these expecting to pull out a body. Talk about a change of plans."

He turned the lock and opened the door, Cordelia and Frederick led Nowi into the cell and before Catherine.

Nowi gulped, voice steady if unsure. "Catherine das Felds… do you, uh, swear to uphold the protection and livelihood of, uh, Lady Nowi-gods that's weird-no matter the dangers arrayed before her or her children? Do you swear to remain open and honest with her, even unto your dying breath? Do you swear to, uh, never betray or harm the lady so long as you live?"

Catherine held out her hand, voice uncolored by emotion. "I promise on my faith that I will be faithful to the lady, never cause her harm and will observe my homage to her completely against all persons in good faith and without deceit. So I swear before these witnesses, the crown, and Naga."

Nowi reached forward nervously until she held Catherine's hand between hers. "I, uh, accept your oath and… promise my protection in return?"

She turned her head, obviously searching for Frederick, but stopped herself. "Is there something else?"

Frederick strode forward, the sword he held rasping from its sheathe. "Your part is done, Nowi. Now it's my turn."

Nowi nodded and let go, stepping back so Frederick could take her place. "Catherine, you have been stripped of your family name and struck from the family's ledgers. As of today, you have no title and no family to call your own."

The sword's tip came to rest on Catherine's shoulder. "The title I now grant is no honor, but a cloak of penance. From today forward you are known to the world as Catherine die Reuige and you will hold that burden until the day you are redeemed in the eyes of those you wronged."

"I accept this burden." Catherine intoned.

The sword tip moved to her other shoulder. "Your face shall be hidden and known only to those who've born witness to this ceremony. Thy liege shall determine if and when your face is shown and when your name is spoken, none save the Exalt may overturn her. So the oath is sworn and the weight laid."

The sword was returned to its sheathe and Frederick took Nowi's hand. "We're done here. Milord, I leave the rest to you."

Chrom nodded and began his orders, Robin and Cordelia hauling Catherine to her feet. "Kellam, Stahl, I want you both to guard this new vassal at all times. Miriel, Gregor, help Tharja gather the ingredients she needs. Everyone else, return to your duties."

The Shepherds scattered, Kellam and Stahl taking charge of Catherine while Robin and Cordelia followed the rest out of the dungeon in a storm of whispers. Chrom waited a moment before looking to Sumia. "Well, time to put those decorum lessons to good use. We'll need to inform the Blackridges."

"They're not gonna like this." Sumia groaned. "Let's just hope they won't stir up trouble over it."

Chrom chuckled. "You're taking to those lessons with Miranda so well. I didn't even think on such things until Emm made sure to beat it into me."

Sumia's face twisted along with everyone that heard that. "The thought that Lady Emmeryn could hurt anyone…"

"I was definitely the exception," Chrom sighed. "I remember getting more than one welt from her training staff growing up."

Sumia shook her head, disbelief clear. "Let's… talk about that later. Come on love, we have work to do."

Chrom could have sworn someone made a whipping noise, but he brushed it off as his imagination and followed Sumia. Frederick and Nowi shared amused grins with Kellam and Stahl before they left the dungeon as well.

"So, what are we doing now?" Nowi asked once they returned to the surface. "I don't need to meet with Natalie for another hour or two."

Frederick hummed. "Well, you still need a cane… why not get that?"

Nowi started to answer before a familiar voice reached them. "Not so fast lovebirds! We got so caught up with things downstairs, Chrom forgot to give you this!"

Frederick rolled his eyes as Lissa skipped up to them, smile blinding as always. Frederick noticed Nowi's hand slip out of his again, but her eyes remained closed. Was Lissa really so bright in Nowi's sight that she had to remove it completely?

"Yo, Frederick, I'm talking to you." Lissa growled.

Frederick snapped to attention. "Forgive me, milady, I was distracted. What did you need to give me?"

Lissa narrowed her eyes before adopting a posh tone. "Ahem. Sir Frederick, for services rendered both past and present, I Lissa Spatz de Ylisse would like to present you with this deed. It confers unto you land laying just northeast of Ylisstol and rights to all that lay within its borders. No house or other buildings yet sit upon its soil, but you are free to do as you so wish with it."

She took a deep breath, her face red from holding onto the unusual formality. "In other words, you can actually build your own house rather than rent out of the palace. Believe me, I don't like being on the receiving end of those jokes anyway, so congrats!"

Frederick took the deed slowly, opening and scanning it to make sure everything was in order. "…I don't know what to say…"

Lissa winked at him. "Well, since you'll be taking care of Nowi here, why not consult with Natalie and the other healers about building a house to help her out? You don't both have to live in it, but it gives everyone somewhere to stay, right?"

Frederick was silent, staring at the deed while glancing to Nowi every so often. It wasn't a bad idea, especially since Nowi would need somewhere to learn that was normal. "…Very well, I shall bring it up when we meet with Natalie later."

Lissa giggled. "Good! I'll see you guys later, I have to make sure no one's trying to butter up Donny."

She turned and skipped away, Frederick watching her go until she was out of sight. "…You can take my hand Nowi, Lissa's gone."

Nowi did so instantly, milky purple meeting the world once again. "Sorry, she's just so bright. Feels like I'll go blind all over again if I look too long."

Frederick shook his head and started the trek to the infirmary. "In any case, we should head for the meeting. We'll have a nice chat with Gaius before Natalie arrives, alright?"

Nowi grinned and launched onto his back for the first time in weeks. "That sounds great."

Frederick grunted, but quickly adjusted his hold and continued his march.

If he were honest, this was far more ordinary than anyone looking in would know.

And that was its own comfort.

-Vaike-

"Man, talk about irony."

Cherche stared at Vaike, curious. "You know what irony is?"

Vaike gave her a sidelong glare. "Of course, that whole situation in the dungeon was ironic. I may not be the sharpest tack, but even I could see it."

"Then everyone was thinking the same thing." Cherche chuckled. "I too was expecting that woman to be killed. Being made a vassal to the one you caused to go blind though… that's a new one."

Vaike grinned. "You betcha! I know a lot of stories from word-of-mouth, but first I've ever heard of that. Frederick's got more of a sadistic streak than I thought."

Cherche nodded and they fell silent, simply enjoying each other's company. It wasn't a busy day, at least compared to their friends who oversaw putting Ylisse back together, so they were strolling through Ylisstol's main street.

Vaike did notice the Cherche was oddly nervous, catching her glance at shops advertising travel supplies more than once. He didn't want to bring up what she was thinking about, at least not where it was so crowded, so he pointed to a random shop. "I got the munchies, what about you? Fancy a snack?"

Cherche blinked, as if coming to from a daze. "Well… I don't see why not. What were you thinking of?"

Vaike shrugged. "I'll eat just about anything, so I leave it to you."

Cherche smirked, but kept her quip to herself. "Then I choose… that."

She pointed to a small stand advertising fig tarts and gingerbread stuffed with sweet almonds. Vaike grimaced at the idea of figs, he hated those things, but he liked gingerbread. "Alright, let's go."

He led them to the stand and purchased a tart for Cherche and a ginger roll for himself. They took their treats to the nearest bench and ate silently, Cherche going back to her thoughts while Vaike tried to think of a subtle way to ask her what she was thinking.

Well, he tried that anyway.

"So, what's eatin' at ya?"

Cherche sighed and cleared away the remains of her last bite. "Can I not simply be with my thoughts?"

Vaike took a bite out of his bread. "Normally, yeah, but I've caught ya looking at stores with travel gear. You wanting to take a trip or something?"

Cherche bit her lip, aware she was partly caught. "At some point, yes, but I mostly need to replace my own supplies."

"Liar," Vaike sighed. "Come on Cher, you can tell me anything. I thought we were already clear on that."

Cherche frowned, staring straight ahead. "Vaike… you're right, I'm sorry. I wish to tour Ylisse in the coming months, if only so that I may see more of the country that I've fought for. I… didn't want to distract you from your duties as a Shepherd."

Vaike frowned and leaned forward, resting is arms on his knees. "Cher, that ain't the real reason. If it was just distraction, you wouldn't try and hide it from me. Hell, Minerva doesn't know what's up with you and that's saying something!"

Cherche's frown turned to a grimace. "Vaike, it really has nothing to do with you. It's my own demons and I need to face them. I just need some time to do that, is all."

Vaike looked at her before his hand landed on her shoulder. "This have anything to do with the scar here? I remember you saying that 'Nerva gave it to you when you first found her, but nothing else."

Cherche shrugged off his hand. "Vaike, as I said, it's something I have to do alone. Just trust that I'll sort this out and come back better for it, ok?"

Vaike didn't look convinced, but he nodded. "Alright, fine. But, you have to agree to dinner with yours truly before I'll let it drop."

Cherche smiled. "Oh, coercion, is it? Very well you rapscallion, I agree."

Vaike chuckled and stood. "You gotta stop using words I don't know. Want to head back? I'm sure 'Nerva's getting upset with us gone."

Cherche held out her hand and Vaike helped her stand. She didn't let go though and reveled in the embarrassed flush of his cheeks.

I'll be back Vaike, don't you fret about it. We still have much personal growth before we can call ourselves worthy partners in battle. …Let alone anything more.

Her grip on his hand tightened, not letting go until they returned to the palace and went their separate ways.

-Robin-

"I need to do what?"

Robin stared at Duke Dunwall, mystified. He hadn't been sure what was going to happen when the duke had called for him, but the current topic was nowhere near the top of his list.

"As I said, Sir Robin," Dunwall huffed, "you must attend a formal introduction ceremony after you've taken stock of your new lands. It is an entrance to the nobility at large and allows you to start making connections."

Robin hummed. "Can't that wait? From what my reports have said, only one of the rebel barons has been caught while the others hole up in their estates. Not exactly the best time to do this."

"True," Dunwall conceded, "but it will need to happen. It's not just you either, everyone that takes over the seized titles will need to attend as well. Lady Cordelia will be having one, no doubt."

Robin pinched his nose. "Can't we just have a big one where everyone's introduced? Doing it one by one sounds like a waste of time and resources, not to mention awkward for Cordelia and myself."

He waved off the duke's response. "Don't think I don't know my position, sir. I'm in a relationship, but no one aside from the Shepherds are aware of it. Considering I'm just a baron with nothing in the way of influence aside from a close friendship to the realm's royalty, I'll be a prime target for seduction and manipulation."

Dunwall snorted, amused. "You understand the game better than most newcomers, that's for sure. If it makes you feel better, most will be too shaken by the rebellion to attempt anything. Especially should the prince and his fiancée be there to help."

Robin shook his head. "I think we should just kill two birds with one stone. Let's hold our formal introductions at the same time as Chrom and Sumia's reception, that way the new title holders can avoid any unpleasantries while everyone's focused on brown-nosing."

Dunwall smirked. "Not a bad idea, though we both know someone's going to be unhappy about it. Anyway, the other reason I'm here is to offer my official support."

Robin's brow shot up. "What's the catch? Duke's don't offer their support to just anyone without a reason."

Dunwall coughed, his embarrassment apparent. "Yes, well, I would like to know something in exchange for my support. Namely… who is that Gaius?"

Robin couldn't stop the smirk that rose on his lips. "I'd heard from Maribelle you're protective, but coming to the local amnesiac tactician to learn about a thief? Why not just ask Shade, I'm sure that would be a better source?"

Dunwall shook his head. "Shade was injured defeating the assassin Durma. As I'm sure you know, she's not in the best of shape."

"Nor that she was the one who sold me my trumpet." Robin muttered. "But if I can ease your mind, Gaius is a fine man. Yes, he has a sugar addiction, but he's stuck by us after we stood by him. So long as he has reason to trust you, there's nothing to fear."

His eyes narrowed. "He also went in and rescued the entire Draconis scouting team by himself, with no regard to reward, and he saved your life when your steward wished you dead. If he hasn't earned the right to at least try to court your daughter, then I don't know what will."

Dunwall's face grew stern. "I see they've shared the story with you. I do not fear Gaius himself, he lost part of his leg in service of this realm and saved my life. What I fear is that his past will come back to haunt him one day and put my family in danger."

Robin rubbed his forehead. "That's not something I can speak for, milord. I have no past, so I cannot understand your concerns, but if Maribelle is to grow into the duchess she will one day be, then she must be allowed to make her own decisions. Besides…"

He stood and looked out the window of the room they were in, eyes falling on the large windows of the infirmary. "She's powerful as is, and one of the greatest healers in the realm. If she cannot defeat the shadows from her place in the light, then Gaius will gladly enter the pit and slay them for her."

-Gaius-

"Come on Twinkles, I can walk."

Maribelle glared down at him, cheeks red in anger. "No, you cannot! That stunt you pulled just to speak with Robin was bad enough as was, but now you coerced Libra into dragging your sorry hide into the dungeons! If that wound got infected, I'd have to take the rest of your leg!"

Gaius smirked at her irate face. "But it didn't now, did it? Besides, the sooner I can get used to moving around again, the sooner I can go get a new foot carved. What do you think, should I go for oak or something more expensive?"

Maribelle looked ready to murder him. "You will not speak of prosthetics until your leg heals! I don't care if I have to walk you through every step of rehab myself, you will do this right!"

"Glad you care Twinkles." Gaius chuckled. "But seriously, I need to get back to work as soon as I can. With Shade out of commission, someone has to take over her network."

Maribelle glanced behind her where she spotted Anna sleeping peacefully in the cot. Durma had left quite the gash on the spymaster before getting her throat opened. "Yes, well, it need not be you. There are certainly those that can handle it while you regain your strength."

Gaius sighed. "Look, I need to earn my keep. I got lax on the last mission and I damn near lost my buds. I have to do something to help or I'm just dead weight."

"You think you're dead weight?" Maribelle scoffed. "At least you did something. I was stuck in Ferox while all this was going on making poultices. I have the power to summon twisters on command, yet I was relegated to support because I was too 'recognizable'."

Gaius frowned. "You felt useless too, huh?"

Maribelle sighed. "Of course I felt useless. My dear Lissa was making sure everything was coordinated between us and even our mystery guests did more than I. Ricken even found the sewage line that got you into Ylisstol in the first place."

Her gaze softened a touch. "But, I can at least see to it that a valued member of the Shepherds and a good friend is taken care of. I assigned Nowi to Natalie for that exact reason and it is why I take charge of your care even now. You're still a boar, but I can at least tolerate you now."

Gaius smirked. "Never thought those words would ever be said. What do I need to do to get decent food in here, lose a hand?"

Maribelle smacked him. "None of that, the last thing I need is you getting ideas. Remain here until I return, we'll start working on moving what's left of your leg later."

Gaius kept his smirk as Maribelle stood and strolled away. It wasn't every day that Twinkles was ever even remotely kind to him, but she'd lightened up since he told her the whole story.

Frankly, he was glad to help and save two innocent lives while otherwise catching a traitorous dastard.

That, and he got to spend more time with the lady than he thought he would, especially since all that riding had given her some great thighs.

So, he noticed these things, he was only human.

"Heh, perv."

Gaius rolled his eyes and looked to his neighbor. "Very original, Shade. Or should I call you Anna now that you're unmasked?"

Anna snorted. "Just call me Anna sugar, we'll get along better. Besides, pretty ballsy of you to say you'd take over my network."

"You hide behind a mask and make yourself sound like a man." Gaius drawled. "Wouldn't take much for me to slip in and take over. Wouldn't take much for anyone to do it."

Anna shrugged. "That's the point, but I've been Shade for ten years. My contacts know my mannerisms by now, so it would take more than some fake to take over. But…"

She smirked. "I wouldn't mind teaching you the ropes, if you let me make a deal."

Gaius narrowed his eyes, but another voice answered instead. "What deal are we talking about?"

Chrom strode into the infirmary with a stony face, fixing Anna with a stern glare. "Your network is obviously vast considering Lord Dunwall came to you for assistance, so what would it take to place one of my friends at the head?"

"How sneaky," Anna chuckled. "Didn't think the leader of the halidom would ever stoop to meet the criminal element, let alone control it."

Chrom's glare hardened. "Were it up to me, I'd put every murderer to the sword. But, this rebellion has shown me the need to be flexible. Your contacts will lie unprosecuted, Shade, so long as Gaius takes your position and uses it in service of the halidom. Should they turn, they'll be treated like the rest."

Anna's grin grew. "Well then, that makes my life simple. See, all I want in exchange is for the crown to show some favor to my family's business. We deal in exotic goods, but taxes are… burdensome."

"You will receive no such break," Chrom growled. "I can designate them as trusted suppliers and give a royal certification, but all shall be taxed the same regardless of status. I'm not so naïve as to believe taxmen follow those laws to the letter, but I refuse to bend the principle."

Anna scrutinized Chrom for any cracks before humming. "Well, you certainly have that backbone of steel. Alright, I can live with that. We'll make more money than we'll know what to do with if you keep your word."

She sat up and held out her hand. "We got a deal, Prince Chrom. I'll start getting sugar-boy up to speed after he can walk again."

Chrom shook the hand. "Good, but remember who you're messing with. This man's fancied by a walking tornado, and you don't want to mess with that."

Anna just grinned and Chrom left. Silence reined for a time before she spoke again.

"Shame he's taken, I like a man with spine.

-Sumia-

"What was that?"

Sumia looked up from her small mountain of documents as a shiver that had nothing to do with her perpetual feeling of cold passed down her spine. Across from her, Cordelia frowned. "Something happen?"

Sumia frowned too. "I… don't know. Just a shiver, but it felt like that time when someone tried to attack Selene."

"Your sixth sense?" Cordelia tried. "I mean, there's no way it could be Selene, not with Olivia watching the stables today. Maybe Chrom got some bad news?"

Sumia sighed. "I hope not. Also, would you mind telling Robin I'm sorry next you see him? I didn't realize all this paperwork got shunted on to him before the war started."

Cordelia giggled and passed Sumia another logistics list. "It's a lot, that's for sure. How're your lessons going?"

"About as well as expected." Sumia sighed. "Miranda does her best, but I catch myself daydreaming at times. You wouldn't believe how annoying it is hearing people whisper about this peach-fuzz called hair that's finally decided to grow back while trying to go over finance and etiquette."

Cordelia shrugged. "Just be glad your hair's coming back as is. Besides, I've got my fair share of things to learn too. I've only been able to find one other surviving Pegasus knight and she's one of the trainees that didn't see battle. No one in Ylisstol knows of anymore, so I'll have to expand the search."

Sumia shook her head and scanned the list before signing. "Well I wish you luck. Heaven knows if I'll ever get enough time to actually talk to Chrom this week."

Cordelia frowned and put down the other report she held. "Have you not been able to discuss things recently? I mean, you're going to get married."

Sumia stilled her writing with a sigh, standing from her chair and walking to the window overlooking the city. "We have talked a bit about it, but we've gotten buried in work. Chrom's trying to get the people in order along with our military and trade while I've been playing catch-up and running the logistics. I want to have a nice talk with him about it, but life just hasn't let us."

A grimace crossed Sumia's face. "Besides that, we'll have to start meeting with the loyalists soon. We received a missive saying Duchess Catarnia's going to visit next week and she'll be arriving at the same time as most of the other nobles. That's not going to be fun."

"Speaking of," Cordelia sighed, pushing a folded piece of parchment towards Sumia. "My parents want to see me. They couldn't leave Grevis with Catarnia's orders in place, but now they want to check in."

Sumia hummed before a thought came to her. "Your mother used to be a Pegasus knight, right? Why not ask her to take on an advisory role until the order gets back on its feet?"

Cordelia shook her head. "It won't happen. My mother's been out of practice for some time and the training structures changed since she was part of the order. Even then, she never wanted to be in a senior role."

Sumia frowned. "Well, if you say so. You gonna tell them about Robin, or are we going to have a scene straight out of a romance novel? You know, the one where the guy wanders in and all that?"

Cordelia rolled her eyes. "Of course I'll tell them. If anything, they're likely to be glad I stopped fawning over Chrom. Can you imagine how awkward things would be if Robin weren't here and you got engaged to Chrom?"

Sumia shivered. "Yeah… good point. Count me among the glad party then, if only so we don't have to try and sort out that mess in addition to all this."

Cordelia gave her a thumbs-up. "Aye to that. Anyway, you need any more help for now?"

Sumia glanced at her pile of parchment before shaking her head. "No, I think I got this. Go ahead and see to getting that recruitment drive started, the sooner we find new riders the better. I'll even pop in every so often to help out, if I can find the time."

"That'd be great." Cordelia said as she stood. "I'll leave you to it now. Need to make sure Dunwall hasn't tried to rope Robin into something he'll regret."

Sumia waved and picked up another sheet, a groan filling the air at what she saw.

"Why on earth are we getting marriage proposals for the first-born, we're not even wed for Naga's sake!"

-Cordelia-

Cordelia barely held in her chuckle at Sumia's frustrated shout. While it was weird to be getting such things so early, it certainly wasn't unexpected.

Now where's my dear Robin?

She chose a random direction and let her feet carry her along. She knew Dunwall had called Robin for a meeting, but where they were holding it was a mystery. Deciding to ask the first person she found, Cordelia's gaze landed on Donnel and Ricken.

What are they up to?

Striding towards them, Cordelia made sure to announce her presence. "Donnel, Ricken! What are you guys sneaking around for?"

Donnel jumped and a sack went flying into the air. Ricken attempted to catch it, but missed by a bare inch. Cordelia had to hold in her confusion and amusement as flour went everywhere. "So, uh, you two looking to bake something?"

Ricken coughed flour from his lungs and patted his robes before answering. "That was the idea, yeah. Donnel wanted to try and see if he could recreate some of his hometown recipes."

Cordelia hummed, liking the idea. "Well, who would get to partake? I assume both of you, but is there any other reason?"

Donnel puffed some flour out of his pot before setting it on his head. "Well, we were thinkin' of giving some to Lissa. She's been awful down the last couple days, least from what I've seen. Thought this could cheer her up."

Cordelia frowned. "When has Lissa been down? She's been her usual cheery self whenever I've seen her."

Donnel scratched his cheek. "See, that's the thing. She's all chipper whenever people're around, but the minute she's alone it's like she's 'bout to cry. I don' know why, but I want to help."

Cordelia cupped her chin, trying to think of a time Lissa had been sad recently. "…I still can't think of anything. But if you're right, than I leave it to you guys to figure this out. Who better to fix her mood then two of her best friends?"

Donnel blushed and Ricken chuckled, but Cordelia bid them farewell. She didn't want to stick around and clean up that mess, not when she had to clear the recruitment drive with Robin and Chrom.

After wandering through several hallways and greeting anyone she met, Cordelia finally spotted her quarry. "Robin!"

Robin perked up and turned as she jogged up to him. "Hey, what's up?"

Cordelia smiled and pulled him in for a peck on the cheek. "First, hello. Second-how did your meeting go?"

Robin scratched his head, cheeks dusted with pink. "Hello to you too. As for the meeting, well, Dunwall wanted to inform me about my formal introduction ceremony whenever I survey my new digs. That, and he wanted to ask about Gaius since he and Maribelle are starting to circle each other."

"That sounds like an overprotective dad alright," Cordelia laughed. "I've heard Maribelle complain about how overbearing he is at her tea parties."

Cordelia seemed to stiffen at the mention of fathers. "Everything okay?" Robin asked, "Something wrong with fathers."

Cordelia grimaced. "Oh… we've known each other long enough, eh?"

Robin pecked her forehead. "Of course, and I've never been happier as long as I've known you. So, what's up?"

"You don't remember much past meeting me," Cordelia muttered, embarrassed. "But, to get to the point, my parents will be coming to see me next week. It'll be happening when Duchess Catarnia visits as well, so don't be surprised if you don't see me that day."

Robin frowned. "Well… I should at least make time to meet them. I mean, they raised the most wonderful woman in the world, so they're doubtlessly great people!"

Cordelia smiled. "That's kind of you, Robin. I just need some time with them alone, ok? It's going to take a lot to get them up to speed before adding you into the mix."

"I guess," Robin sighed. "Alright, I'll leave you to it. I still wish to speak to them, if only so I can thank them."

Cordelia tilted her head. "What for?"

Robin grinned and kissed her flush on the lips.

"For giving this world an angel."

-Lissa-

"Chrom, can we talk?"

Lissa caught her brother exiting the infirmary, her resolve steady though her gut was doing backflips.

"What about?" Chrom asked. "I already know about Donnel, what else is there to say?"

Lissa gulped and grabbed his arm. "Just… comes with me. It's about what happened with Nowi, Sumia, and Lon'qu."

Chrom grew serious and allowed Lissa to guide him into the heart of the palace, they eventually stopped in the gardens. Lissa strode to the pear tree and took a seat. "Come on, this is important."

Chrom sat next to her and the siblings looked up to the tree. Lissa didn't remember her mother, only that the pear tree had been her favorite spot to relax. It was here she'd come to relax too, and she could already feel it soothing her nerves.

"So…" Chrom prodded. "What's on your mind? Did you find something that could help us figure out what happened? What made our friends transform?"

Lissa sighed, face drooping. "Not… really. See, remember when we went to Donny's village? How I was able to do those really thin beams?"

Chrom cupped his chin, thinking back to that incident. "Yeah… now that I think about it, you've never been that precise since. You don't mean doing that was something similar to what happened with the others?"

Lissa kept her eyes glued on the pear tree. "Yeah… if a lot less extreme. I didn't lose anything since there wasn't some pact or anything, but I did hear a voice that wasn't mine."

Chrom took a deep breath. "I see… so who talked to you?"

"Horakthry," Emmeryn answered as she shimmered into existence. "The Creator of Light itself. I was pulled into a meeting with the god not long ago and was told that Lissa has been chosen as an…arbiter."

Chrom's teeth ground. "It appears the gods see fit to make those around me into their playthings. At least Lissa was not bound in a contract, and I can only hope they'll stay away from the others."

Lissa sniffled, sadness and fear rolling through her mind. Of course Chrom was angry, he had every right to be. She may as well start packing…

A hand fell on her shoulder. "I do not blame you Lissa, nor am I upset with you. Something like that is scary, especially when you didn't know what was happening. While I wish you'd have come to me sooner, I appreciate that you've told me now."

His hand fell away. "As for you, Emm, I want to know why you got dragged into a meeting with this thing. Also, we need to get you ready to come on as an assistant, so you need to test how far your body can move before disappearing."

Lissa felt like crying. She'd been expecting Chrom to start ranting and raving at her, not accept it out of hand and tell her it wasn't her fault. A few tears did escape, but a gentle hand brushed them away. "Dear Lissa, there's no reason to cry. What the gods do is out of our hands, all we can do is move forward. Now, why don't you tell me about Donny? I've been eager to hear about him ever since Chrom mentioned him."

Chrom took that as his cue to leave. "I'll make sure no one interrupts you. Just remember, if someone does show up, you need to go."

Lissa heard Emmeryn agree before the construct of her sister's soul settled next to her. "Whenever you're ready."

Lissa took a deep breath and began to tell Emmeryn about Donnel. From when they first met in Ferox to her rescue, to the night she'd confessed her feelings and forced a kiss on him. All throughout, Emmeryn listened with the patience that defined her and offered Lissa a shoulder to cry on.

"Donnel sounds like a fine young man." Emmeryn whispered when Lissa ran out of words. "I hope to meet him soon and see for myself. I'm glad you've followed your heart Lissa, and know that I will be here to support you should anything go awry."

Lissa wrapped her arms around Emmeryn. "Thank you, sis… gods, why did I have to get so emotional about this? It's you guys, you'd never hate me."

Emmeryn patted Lissa's head. "We could never hate you, Lissa. All we ask is that you put your faith in us as we have done with you. Now, am I right you wish to go see your boyfriend?"

Lissa blushed, pink mixing with the red around her eyes. "Jeez, hearing it said out loud is kind of embarrassing."

Emmeryn giggled and kissed the crown of Lissa's head. "Now you know how Chrom felt all those years you've teased him. Go on, I'll talk to you and Chrom later tonight about what I found. First, enjoy today."

Lissa pulled back from Emmeryn and nodded. "Alright… I'll do just that! Thanks again Emm, I couldn't ask for a better big sis!"

Emmeryn nodded and Lissa hurried away. A moment later, Emmeryn's form began to fade. "Ah, that must be the limit. Let's pop back to the jewel and see what's going on."

Her form disappeared, soul returning to the gem. She never noticed the shell-shocked Sumia that had witnessed Lissa leave and Emmeryn fade.

"What the...?"

-Donnel-

"Alright, that's long enough."

Donnel reached into the oven with his glove and pulled out the pie crust, the smell of roasting meat and vegetables filling the air.

Ricken wiped away some drool. "I think that's a success right there. All the others smelled like feet, but this… this smells good."

"I reckon so," Donnel agreed. "Never thought we'd use that much flour or lamb though. Have to apologize to the cooks later."

Ricken grinned. "Well don't mind me, I can make another one myself now and apologize for the both of us. Just get that thing to Lissa and make her get back to her old ways! …Do you mind telling her not to target me for a prank, since I helped?"

Donnel chuckled. "I'll be sure to let her know. You take care now, ok?"

Ricken waved and Donnel stored his prize before leaving. The scent continually entered his nose and he felt his mouth water at the reminder of home, but he stayed strong. More than a few people tried to stop him and ask what was in the basket, but Donnel excused himself and got away as quick as he could.

"Donny!"

The voice was music to his ears, but Donnel had to keep a firm grip on his basket as Lissa flew into him, arms wrapping around him and cheek pressed against his. "Lissa! What's gotten into you?"

Lissa smiled at him. "I'm just glad to see you! We haven't gotten to have fun in a few days."

Donnel chuckled nervously and held out his basket. "I uh, noticed you weren't all that chipper since we haven't gotten to meet. Ricken and I made this to try and cheer you up."

Lissa took the basket and breathed in the lovely scent. "Ah, this smells great! Come on, you and me need to have a picnic this minute!"

She grabbed his arm and started dragging him away, Donnel stumbling to keep up. "Wait, right now?"

"Of course!" Lissa crowed.

"When do I need an excuse to enjoy spending time with you?"

-Chrom-

"So, your limits about the height of the palace."

Chrom was sitting across from Emmeryn in his room, the siblings hashing out where Chrom would need to be for Emmeryn to successfully enter the palace and take her place as an assistant.

"Give or take a few feet." Emmeryn confirmed. "Plenty of room altogether, especially if I'm given a room and office not far from yours."

Chrom scratched his chin, "Well, that settles it for now. When would you like to show up?"

"Preferably after you've wed." Emmeryn said. "That'll mean Miranda and Dunwall will return to their duchies and I can avoid their scrutiny."'

Chrom huffed, but had to agree. "That would make things easier. The question is whether we should let Sumia in on this or not, especially since you'll be working with both of us."

"Why not now?" A new voice asked.

Chrom nearly leapt out of his seat and Emmeryn vanished in panic. Once he caught his wits, Chrom looked to his door to find a stern Sumia glaring at him, disappointment leaking from her eyes.

"You have a lot of explaining to do."

Ch. End

Well, I believe that's a good place to leave off. Please, tell me what you think!

Now, review responses!

Warrior of six blades: I hope you enjoy this one just as much! It's actually fun to be writing this section, especially since I did all of the above in just one day.

Guest: Awaking is a word, it's the verbal form of awake.

Tychon: Well, I try my best. My writing is very much influenced by my own personality, so it can be hard to get characters correct.

The Fell Dragonite: I know what you mean, it's super easy to pound these chapters out, but it's super hard to think up things for an assignment. Oh well, once the words flow, all is good. Hope you like this chapter too!

The Freelancer Seal: I look forward to your thoughts on the rest of the story!

That's all I got people, see you next time!

*Seven turns away and Kiwi sprints by, arms lifted in the air, shouting "CAUGHT UP!"