Alright people, let's get to it!

Severa: Is the secret going to come out now?

Lucina: Are we going to Carrion Isle?

7: Will I ever buck-up and write another lemon?

Girls: …

7: What? We were doing chain questions.

Severa: Ugh, dork. Anyway, what's happening today?

7: A couple things, actually! Here's the script, please hand it out.

*Girls read the script*

Lucina: Oh, that's what we're doing. Ok.

Severa: Quick question, where do we get all the crows and cream?

7: Go talk to Lilith, she should have the delivery.

Kiwi: Please tell me I'm not on cleanup this time …

7: I don't think so, I believe Maribelle lost the bet this time.

Now to the show!

Rewards

Robin arrived with the rest of Ylisse's military the day after the vanguard's defeat.

The town around the port was partly ransacked and the bay was still full of wrecked hulls, prisoners gathered in the center of town. His escorts said little of the battle, but he could infer plenty just by looking around.

All in all, a good first engagement.

Robin's thoughts were confirmed when he met up with the Shepherds, everyone who participated giving him a brief overview as he walked to the command center. Opening the doors, he strode inside to find Chrom and Sumia poring over maps. Morgan and Cynthia stood to the side.

"Are you sure those reports are accurate?" Chrom asked Morgan, not noticing Robin enter. "Gaius's sources put the fleet at much larger than that."

Morgan nodded, smiling when she noticed her father. "They are, milord. The storm that formed over the sea looks to have sunk several of their vessels and damaged many more. My scouts have them holding three days flight from Origin Peak, so we have some time."

Sumia glanced up and grinned in relief. "Well, look who showed up. Chrom, Robin's here."

"About time." Chrom laughed tiredly as he found his friend, moving around the table to trade grips with Robin. "Your ideas paid dividends friend, our casualties would have been far worse without them."

Robin shook his head and gestured to the room around him. "I left these people in the care of those that can lead, that's what made the difference. The others briefed me on the way here, what are we looking at now?"

Chrom looked to Sumia, who signaled they were clear. "Well, our daughters here got word back from their squads. The Valmese fleet has stalled its journey due to a great storm and are making repairs as we speak. Your… idea will need to be put into action."

Robin crossed his arms and raised a brow, the girls snickering at his incredulous look. "You're telling me it took an invasion and an act of nature to convince you diplomacy with Plegia needed to happen?"

Chrom scowled at him. "You and I both know the country was in a state of near anarchy while the ruling class sorted itself out. We didn't hear about the new king until three months ago, not exactly the best window to request a summit."

Robin rolled his eyes. "Then send the messenger. We'll need every ship Plegia can give us if we're to meet the Valmese at sea."

That was the crux of the next stage in Robin's grand plan. On land, the Valmese could simply drown them in bodies, which meant they had to neutralize that advantage. The only way, frankly, was to meet them ship-to-ship.

Problem was, Ylisse and Ferox alone could not supply the ships needed to follow this plan on short notice. Warships took a long time to make, and they'd only constructed enough ships between the two nations to transport a third of their armies.

Plegia, on the other hand, had a massive maritime economy. Their fleets were thrice the combined Ylisse-Ferox ships and, so long as talks were accepted and went well, they'd be able to spare more than enough to see the plan through.

"I'll get on it." Sumia said, waving for Cynthia to follow. "In the meantime, why don't you and Morgan go check in on the rest of your family? These maps will be waiting for us when we come back, and I recall Chrom promised Lucy a sparring match."

Robin laughed as Chrom slumped in defeat. It was always amusing to see the pair act in concert publicly, only for all the power to swing back to Sumia when they were amongst friends. "That sounds like a great idea. Morgan, do you know where they are?"

Morgan giggled and skipped over to him, waving to the royals as they left. "Yep! Last I saw, they were heading to the staging grounds to look over the new supplies."

Robin felt a thrill of alarm run through him, Morgan noticed immediately. "What, did something happen?"

Robin scratched his head, dodging a hurried Olivia as he pondered what to say. "Well… it's more like I have a surprise waiting in those supplies, and I didn't want anyone to see them until I could give them out."

Morgan tilted her head, very curious, but they were interrupted before she could ask.

"Robin, glad to see you." Nowi said as she was carried past them on Frederick's back. "You wouldn't happen to have seen a girl resembling my child form wandering around, have you?"

Robin blinked a couple times before shaking his head. "Uh… no. I just got into town about an hour ago, haven't seen much of the camp. Why do you ask?"

"One of the regiment commanders notified her of such an individual." Frederick said, not a mote of exhaustion from the march in his face. "Nowi insisted we start searching the moment I got into camp."

Robin glanced around, but none of the other Shepherds were in ear-shot. "You don't think… it's another child, do you?"

Nowi pursed her lips, expression mirrored on her husband. "We… we just don't know. Could be a coincidence, just a local kid that wandered in, but… it could be Nah too."

Robin sucked in a breath. He could sympathize with them, especially since Severa and Lucina had mentioned 'Cousin Nah' several times in their stories. It was only natural Nowi and Frederick would worry if their daughter were here. "I wish you luck on your search. If you do find her, and it's who you think… we'll be glad to welcome her back."

Nowi and Frederick gave him grateful smiles before excusing themselves. Robin and Morgan continued on their way, silent at the thought of the other Shepherd children out there.

"We ran into Kjelle, actually." Morgan muttered as they exited the Shepherd's section of town, path taking them to the outskirts where the city of tents awaited. "She tried to demand command of a regiment, but Uncle Ricken knocked her to the dirt. Aunt Sully's been… taking care of her, but she doesn't know it's Kjelle yet."

Robin shuddered, already knowing what that entailed. "Have you guys decided it's time?"

Morgan nodded, a clenched jaw the sign of her unease. "Mostly… we thought it would be best to explain over dinner, but then the vanguard landed and we didn't get the chance. I was thinking we could try again tonight, or maybe after the messenger gets back from Plegia."

Robin shook his head, morose. "It will happen when it happens, just know that we'll be beside you no matter what. Now, to happier things, did anything good happen while I was away?"

Morgan grinned widely. "You bet! So, you know how you always asked about Sev being real nervous around Lucy?"

Robin nodded, ruing how he stumbled upon that bit of knowledge. The one time she forgot to lock her room and it ended with poor Robin having to explain he was just fine with his daughter loving another woman. She just had to spit it out and remember to lock the door if she wanted private time.

"Well they finally pulled their heads out of the sand!" Morgan almost cheered, making Robin sigh with relief. "It's weird, they said 'I love you' almost four years ago, but they never really got together after that. Maybe they were just awkward, but something changed, and here we are."

Robin was glad to hear it. After he'd found out about Severa's preferences, it was painfully obvious that she was deeply in love with Lucina. He'd dare call her actions around Lucina similar to his around Cordelia before they'd started dating.

"We also got to try a bunch of new strategies." Morgan continued unabated. "Sev already fixed most of the flaws, but she wants to go over them with you to be sure."

Robin chuckled and mussed her hair, ignoring the protests that arose. "I'm proud of you, Cherry Head. Keep it up and I'll let you take me on one of those stunt shows you love doing with Cynthia."

Morgan's mismatched eyes lit up like fire. "I'm holding you to that! Oh, maybe we can get Mom to do it with Sev too!"

Robin silently hoped that wouldn't happen. He could at least keep his lunch down during maneuvers like what Morgan was envisioning, but he knew for fact Severa wouldn't make it past the third spin.

"Oh, we're here!"

Robin blinked and glanced around. Indeed, they'd made great time through the rest of the town and maze of tents. Before them stood great stacks of equipment, soldiers going from the newly arrived wagons to the piles before more soldiers retrieved the supplies and took them away.

Next to one pile of supplies sat a figure in a large cloak with a head of purple, parchment in head. A figure with blazing red hair stood beside them.

"Cordelia, Kat!" Morgan called, remembering to use her sister's alias with the other soldiers around. "Guess who's here!"

Cordelia turned around, face blooming with joy at the sight of Robin. She dropped her own parchment, which Severa scrambled to catch, and jogged to them, enveloping Robin in a warm embrace.

"It's good to see you." She whispered, kissing his cheek. "I needed to see you… so badly."

Robin kissed her deeply, pouring his love into the contact. Once she was satisfied, he pulled away. "And I you. Worry does not describe how I felt when news reached us of the attack."

Cordelia kissed him back, the sappy sight making their daughters gag. Once they were done, Robin pulled back to grin at Severa. "Hey, I heard your ideas for the defense unfolded beautifully. Trying to one up me, are ya?"

Severa smirked and shrugged, delight twinkling in her mismatched eyes. "Well of course the defenses worked, the best minds in the world worked on them. Well, the best mind and her assistant."

Robin glared at her, playing along. "I believe it is you who's the tactician's assistant young lady. You still haven't beaten me in best of three chess yet."

Severa glowered at him, the staring contest continuing until they burst into giggles. Once her mirth was expended, Severa glided forth and hugged her father, her voice a whisper. "I missed you, Daddy."

Robin patted her back, eyes warm. "You too, pup. Come on, let's get this pile sorted. I have a surprise for you at dinner."

Severa looked at him curiously, but Morgan dragged her away to the pile. Robin and Cordelia stood alone for a time, watching their daughters work, hand entwined.

"So they finished on time." Cordelia whispered, leaning into Robin's shoulder. "I guess that means I need to steal her coat."

Robin nuzzled her hair, reveling in the red silk. "I'll see to that. In the meantime, we'll need to keep the girls away from their mounts, it'll ruin the surprise otherwise."

Cordelia nodded and started to pull him towards the pile. "Let's join them for now, such things can come later."

Robin shook his head and took her hand. "Would the work ever be finished, but you're right. Hopefully, everything will work out."

Cordelia kissed him again and they joined their daughters, the day wiled away sorting the many supplies Robin had brought with the bulk of their forces.

Eventually, when the girls went back to their tents, Robin enacted the first part of his surprise. He knew Severa almost never let her coat out of sight, but today was one of the few exceptions where she hid it in her tent while bathing.

Robin, channeling his inner thief, snuck into the tent and grabbed the coat before fleeing the area with all possible haste. Once he'd given the coat to Cordelia, he returned to the supply wagons and gathered four crates with the help of a few off-duty soldiers. The crates were left with Kellam and Stahl, who were more than happy to prepare the surprise.

Next, he snuck into Lucina's tent and took her cape. Then he led Cynthia's Selene and Morgan's Theresa out of the corral and to a forge where an eager set of armorers and a few in-the-know Shepherds set about getting the mounts ready.

Once he'd delivered the cape to Sumia, who started squealing when he told her what this was about, his next set of steps centered around getting the mess hall ready for the night and finishing his debriefs on the tactics the Valmese had used in the battle.

Essentially, he was killing time.

It was during this time, where he almost couldn't sit still, that Miriel came to visit. "Robin, I have something I must discuss with you."

Robin glanced up from the map he'd been marking with the assistance of a few soldiers that had been in the battle. "What about?"

Miriel dismissed the soldiers, Robin not willing to counteract the order with the look Miriel was giving him. Once they were gone, Miriel made damn sure they were alone before taking a seat across from Robin. "I wish to discuss your children."

Robin felt a thrill of alarm run through him, but suppressed it. There was no way she meant the time-walkers. "What about them? They're back in Grevis with their grandparents, I fail to see what anything here has to do with them."

"Playing dumb are we?" Miriel muttered before looking Robin in the eye. "I mean the ones who walk amongst us at this moment, preparing for a war they walked through time in hopes to prevent. The ones that, despite being almost the same age as us, are perfect matches for the little ones we left behind."

She leaned forward, eyes set in a glare. "Ring any bells?"

Robin gulped and looked away. There was no reason not to spill to Miriel, considering she'd figured it out on her own, and the secret was going to come out that night anyway…

"…How'd you figure it out?"

Miriel relaxed and opened the journal she'd brought. "I have been observing them for the last four years, but the idea came to me when I saw Severa for the first time. Holding that babe made me recall Katarina, and less than a year after the time-walkers joined us, I found the same brand on Katarina that marked Severa as your kin."

Robin was nodding, but that didn't explain it. "Let me guess, you read about the Rite of Time? Then all the otherwise coincidental matches lined up."

Miriel scanned through her journal as she talked. "Indeed, I found the Rite. It was the only explanation for the identical features on the elder and younger girls. Add on the royals, you, and your wife welcoming these girls like family and it sealed the deal."

Robin sighed and cradled his head in his hands. "…I really shouldn't have doubted anyone from figuring it out, least of all someone of your intellect. Still, what brought this on? The girls were going to inform the Shepherds of their true identities tonight."

Miriel stopped on a page in her journal and showed it to Robin, the page holding a sketch of a young girl with pointed ears. "There have been sightings in the army of… unique individuals. This girl is but one of several I've recorded, and… I heard of a young mage that greatly resembles Laurent."

Robin hummed as the answer came forth. "I see… what would you like me to do?"

"Call them to the Shepherd compound for this announcement." Miriel said after composing herself, several names getting scribbled on Robin's map. "They answered the call to arms when it was given, so I know who their squad leaders are. On your word, these individuals will be brought forth, and… hopefully we can sort it out from there."

Robin was surprised at the laissez-faire answer. Miriel wasn't one for leaving things up to fate or the whims of the chance, but… this was her child they were talking about. And she'd likely realized why he was here in the first place.

"…Very well, I'll see it done. Looks like more than just my surprise will be revealed tonight."

Miriel smiled and bowed. "Thank you, my friend. If it's any consolation, I believe the messenger to Plegia set out not ten minutes ago. Should all go well, we'll have a place and time within a few days."

Robin chuckled, but grabbed her arm as she made to leave. "I can't speak for Laurent, but please, don't assume he hates you. If anything, apologies will not be appreciated… so just be welcoming."

Miriel showed no outward reaction, but she reached around and squeezed Robin's hand. "I know… but it's still something I must own up to. We may not be our future selves, but I still feel that whatever suffering led them here must be repaid. I will welcome him, should he wish it… but I simply don't know what to do beyond that."

"I didn't know either." Robin agreed. "But that will come with time. Just go to Gregor and discuss this with him, I'll make sure they're there."

Miriel nodded and left, Robin gathering his maps and leaving the tent he'd commandeered. "Soldier, come here!"

A swordswoman ran up to him, expression stoic. "What can I do for you, Lord Robin?"

Robin opened his map and looked at the names Miriel had left him. "I need you to inform the commanders of the first, third, and eighth regiments along with the third mage company to send me these people. Instruct them to meet at the Shepherd compound at sundown."

The swordswoman saluted and set off after receiving the names, Robin looked to the sky. "I… need to go blow off some steam."

He hummed a tune and made for the training fields where, for the next few hours, he rained destruction upon hapless training dummies while awing the regular soldiers.

By the time he was done, Cordelia was waiting for him at the edge of the fields with an exasperated smile. "I knew not being here was frustrating, but sheesh. What, did someone make a crack about your coat?"

Robin shrugged as he took the waterskin she offered. "Nah, just killing time. Everything's still a mess and we can't make any decisions until Plegia gets back to us, so I must do something. Would've asked for a duet, but you were busy."

"Speaking of, it's done." Cordelia whispered, a grin bursting to life. "It's all waiting in the dining hall, just out of sight. I wanted you to look before everyone arrived."

Robin grinned back, and they hurried away, dodging through the ruckus of soldiers with practiced ease. They arrived at the Shepherd's section of the town to find no one else had arrived quite yet, but they didn't stop to look.

Instead, Robin ran into the dining hall and peeked behind the curtain that had been drawn across the stage. What he saw made him grin excitedly. "Great, it's just like I hoped! Let's get this place ready!"

Cordelia was way ahead of him, organizing the tables and utensils with all the speed she could muster. Robin dived in with similar energy, the pair getting the hall presentable in barely thirty minutes.

"Mom, Dad… are you in?"

They finished just in time as Severa pushed the door in with an uneasy look around. It was odd to see her bare of the tactician's cloak, but Robin always thought she looked fine without it. Even in the tan work shirt she'd taken to wearing.

"What's up, Sev?" Cordelia asked, though she already knew the answer. "Where's your coat?"

Severa looked around wearily, rubbing her bare shoulders like she was freezing. "That's just it, I don't know. I've been all over this place and haven't seen it, it's… really not good."

Robin could only hope the surprise would make up for the brief turmoil this was inflicting on her. "Well maybe your sister sent it to the laundry, you know how she is."

"I asked her," Severa said, shivering. "Lucy's cape is gone too, and so are Theresa and Selene. We've been going mad trying to find them."

Robin shared a concerned frown with Cordelia before taking off his coat and wrapping Severa in it. "Here, use mine. We'll find yours after we get everyone together, they'll be sure to help."

Severa relaxed immediately, only furthering Robin's concern. "Thanks… um, where is everyone?"

"Soon to arrive." Cordelia said as she glanced out the window. "And they have tonight's meal too."

The family was inundated with the chatter of the Shepherds shortly thereafter, food and drink distributed amongst the tables. Worries were, for a time, lost to the revelry of friends coming together once more. Everyone that had arrived with Robin was caught up on the various happenings of the port attack. The harmless chatter stalled as a knock sounded on the dining hall door.

Robin, who was closest to the door, was expecting the knock. "Who is it?"

"My name is Laurent, good sir. Myself and my compatriots were instructed to arrive here at dusk."

Robin took a deep breath and opened the door, a tall young man with auburn hair and a set of spectacles stood on the other side. "Then come in. Go to the stage, I'll be making an announcement shortly."

Laurent, for this had to be him, nodded and strode into the hall. Behind him followed a woman in heavy plate with dark hair that Robin recognized as Kjelle, who was in turn closely followed by a trembling young woman in green clothes with blonde hair and a strange charm clasped in her hands.

Behind them came a short girl in a white dress and red cape. Her hair was tied into a bob with twin braids, a male taguel with a tuft of blue hair entered only a step behind her.

A quick glance to Robin's daughters showed their jaws slamming into the floor, Lucina and Cynthia in a similar state. Before anything could be said, Robin bounded to the stage and gave his best call to arms. "Atten-hut!"

The room went silent, everyone staring at him in confusion.

"Thank you for your attention." Robin drawled. "My Frederick impersonation aside, there's an important announcement we need to make. Katarina, Marth, if you would join me."

Severa and Lucina stood with grimaces, refusing to meet the gazes of their shocked comrades. Once they were on the stage, Robin heard Lucina whisper something to the others. "I'm sorry, they already know."

The other children looked alarmed, but Robin cleared his throat and gestured to them. "Tell me, how many of you suspect that Marth, Katarina, Caeda, and Tethys are more than they appear?"

Every hand went up.

"Who here noticed they look eerily similar to four little girls we all know and love?"

Every hand remained up.

Robin heaved a sigh of exasperation. "How many of you already know what I'm about to say?"

Every hand was up… except for Vaike's.

"What?" Vaike demanded when everyone turned to glare at him. "I don't read that magic mumbo-jumbo stuff all that often, give me a break!"

Robin chuckled as he shook his head. "Well, for the sake of formality, here goes. Marth and Caeda are little Lucina and Cynthia, all grown up."

Lucina bowed and Cynthia waved nervously, no one looked all that impressed.

Robin scratched the back of his head, disappointed by the lack of reaction. "Katarina and Tethys are Severa and Morgan all grown up, so congratulations, you've all been hanging out with them the last four years."

Sully connected the dots first. "Holy shit! That means… Kjelle, you got your ass whooped by Ricken!"

She leapt out of her seat and jumped onto the stage, scooping the sputtering Kjelle into her arms and lifting her off the ground. "Geez, what the hell girl? Didn't anyone teach you ramming things doesn't always work?"

Sully was laughing and crying as she said that, Kjelle trying to free herself when a heavy hand landed on her arm. "Kjelle… thank you for answering the call. We're proud of you, my girl."

Kjelle continued to sputter, mind in such a scramble she couldn't speak. Having her parents so welcoming, even after she'd flat out demanded to take her mother's job, was just too much.

The girl that was hiding behind her tried to take shelter behind Kellam's great form, but she squeaked as hands closed over hers. "Oh, Noire… I'm so happy to see you."

Noire turned her eyes to the ground, but she could still see the boots Libra wore. "…Hi, D-daddy…"

Libra wore the gentlest smile anyone had ever seen as he pulled Noire into his arms, humming a lullaby he knew she knew. "Sweet child, I know not what brought you here, but I know this. You are home, and that is all that matters."

Noire choked on something thick, tears gathering in her eyes, when she felt another pair of arms encircle her, the rasp of Tharja's voice setting her on edge. "I should've expected as much when someone mentioned the charm… it's good work, I like it…"

"…It kept you safe, where I could not."

Noire clearly couldn't believe her ears. The other Shepherds though, knew that Tharja loved her daughter beyond most anything, so the otherwise strange tone she took was expected Noire only remembered the mother whom had drowned in grief though, her mind scrambling to make sense of this warmth.

The taguel jumped as Panne appeared before him, her arms crossed and eyes scanning him. "Uh, hello, mother…"

Panne shook her head and patted his shoulder. "I pushed the last of our kind talk too hard, didn't I?"

"Why, that's no fault of yours!" Virion said as he joined his wife, hand clapping his son's shoulder. "Yarne needed to know his heritage, and it kept him alive to come see us. Though I do admit, he jumps at his own shadow, but was he not brave enough to journey to this place?"

Panne hummed before reaching out and pinching the tuft of blue fur on Yarne's head, the boy flinching. "I guess… we'll just need to get him into shape and all will be well."

"Your warren welcomes you, Yarne de Roseanne. Just know we'll be putting you through your paces with everyone else… and we're glad to see you."

Virion gave Yarne a hand, his son shaking it strongly despite his apparent nerves. "Overjoyed in fact. I'm beyond proud to know my son could make it where no one else could. That's a badge of pride I shall wear unto my last day."

Yarne sniffed and rubbed his eyes, the family exiting the stage with Noire and Kjelle's family.

Laurent stood tall as Miriel picked her way to the stage, an emotional Gregor next to her. "Mother, Father, it's… good to see you."

"My boy!" Gregor cried, rushing forward and crushing Laurent in a hug. "Gregor thought day he see son as grown man far in future. Yet here he stand, making Gregor proud with just presence! Oh, Gregor must make schnitzel to celebrate!

Miriel cleared her throat and Gregor let go of Laurent sheepishly. "It's good to see you well, Laurent. Finding an assistant amongst this sea of buffoons is no longer necessary."

Laurent coughed as he caught his breath, but he was smiling. "Straight to the point as ever, both of you. I would love to be your assistant, Mother. And Father, I have several techniques I've wished to test out with you… and now I have the chance."

Miriel chuckled and embraced him. "Later, Laurent. Tonight, simply be our son, that is all we ask."

Laurent nodded and returned the hug, Gregor picking them both up in a bear hug and carrying them off the stage to much laughter.

All that was left on the stage was the short girl, her eyes on the ground as the tap of a cane filled the air.

The rest of the Shepherds had been quiet after Robin's announcement, waiting to see what transpired. All of them held their breath as Frederick guided Nowi to the stage. "Nah… is that you?"

The girl looked up, purple eyes confirming her identity. Nowi though, saw something different. A doll of obsidian stone with veins of gems running against her body like rivers. The source of her aura was a shining heart of diamond, gleaming like dragon-fire.

"Hello, Mother." The girl said, the picture of politeness. "I… was not expecting to run into you or Father when I came here."

Frederick smiled gently as they made the stage, towering over the girl. "Nor did we ever expect to see you. It is… heartening, to know you are ok."

Nowi kneeled and held open her arms, almost begging for a hug. "Sweet girl, I don't think Freddy can put that into the right words. We are beyond happy to see you, to know you're ok."

"Really?" Nah asked, the skepticism making Frederick and Nowi frown. "Because I was never under the impression you cared that much when you left me with one of Father's military friends."

Nowi and Frederick shared a wide-eyed look, the others muttering in concern. "Nah, what do you mean? We left you in the care of your aunt, and your grandparents were to take you in should Catherine no longer be able to. Why were you given to another family?"

Nah shook her head, reliving something bitter. "I was never told. It was all I could do to be a dutiful foster child, but no one in that family liked me. I was bitter about it, but I've let it go as I got older."

It sure didn't sound like it to anyone else.

"I've moved past it," Nah continued, still as polite as if she were addressing a stranger. "And so should you. I don't want the sappy stuff like what the others got, so just let me live my life and live yours. Really, that's all I want… oh, and for the little me not to be called Nah."

She laughed a bitter laugh as Nowi began to sniffle and Frederick's face hardened. "You have no idea how much grief such a strange name gives. Who in their right mind names a kid 'Nah' anyway?"

All was silent for a moment before Frederick spoke. "Your name's not Nah."

Everyone save Miriel and Lissa blinked at that. Nah gave voice to her doubt. "Of course it is, everyone calls me that, so it must be my name."

"It isn't…" Nowi whispered, tears streaming down her scars. "Why would we do that? Nah's a nickname, something we started to call you after you used it as your first word. It was only a joke between us, but… I guess no one ever got to tell you your actual name."

Nah heaved in a deep breath, voice raised in desperation. "Then what is it, damn it?! I thought I was cursed with a strange name that would always haunt me as surely as my heritage, but now you're telling me I'm mistaken?!"

"I have been called a mongrel and a monster, a mistake, and that name has been used as proof that I was unwanted! Yet here I stand being told that all of that is because you never bothered to tell me my real name?!"

"What is it?!"

All were silent as Nah panted, cheeks red from yelling. Nowi in turn was sobbing at hearing her daughter use such words against herself. Frederick internally vowed to find out who this 'friend' was and teach him a lesson.

"…Natalie."

Nah gasped at the name, eyes going to Frederick. "…What?"

"Natalie." Nowi repeated, her sobs slowing to hiccups. "Your name… is Natalie Caomhnóir das Felds, known affectionately as Nah, or Nana, if it's your aunt. We… we named you after an old friend of mine from early in my life, the first person to have ever shown me kindness."

Frederick strode forward and placed a hand on Nah – Natalie's – head. "Your name and nicknames all come from love, my daughter. You may not know this, but when you were born, I retired as head of the royal guard. I'd worked to be worthy of the post almost all my life, yet as I held you in my arms, I found a greater purpose. Were it not for your mother's inability to hold down a job, I'd have stayed home full time."

That got laughs out of the anxious crowd, but Nowi was able to calm down with the levity and inch towards her daughter. "If you wish, we'll all call you Natalie from here on. I don't want the brave woman that came through time to have to suffer any further."

Nah… shook her head. "No… it's fine. I've been Nah for so long, being called Natalie would just be weird."

She giggled, but Nowi could see sparkling gems stream down her eyes. "And a woman? I… I don't know how you became blind, Mother, but I'm no woman. I look like a child, no two-ways about it."

Nowi thought otherwise. With a nod to Frederick, she guided herself to Nah and leaned down to look her in the eye, pristine and milky purple shades meeting in the middle. "I see more than you think, my dear girl, and you are a woman."

"I just need to show you."

Before Nah could say anything, Nowi reached out and tapped her chest, just above her heart. In Nowi's sight, emerald lines bloomed from where she'd touched and merged with the lines in Nah's body, the energy racing for her heart. A moment later, the energy met the heart and light erupted.

The same occurred outside, the Shepherds covering their eyes as Nah was engulfed in energy. When it was gone, Frederick had already thrown a cloak over Nah.

Before their eyes, Nah had grown a foot and a half. With all the features of a woman in her early twenties.

Nah blinked rapidly before looking at herself, gob smacked. "…How…?"

"You are my daughter." Nowi said, Frederick making sure Nah was alright. "I had the ability to switch between a child and adult form, but I chose to remain an adult after I fell for your father. After much practice with the sight I have, I was able to recognize the signs and energies that allowed me to take those forms."

"You inherited them. Just needed a little push to get you there."

Nah was too shocked to speak, but her new legs gave out and Frederick had to catch her. "Come along, it's best we get you situated. Knowing what just happened, I bet your clothes don't fit anymore."

Nah nodded, cheeks red, but there were happy tears in her eyes. "I… think I need a haircut too."

Frederick chuckled and picked her up, careful of the brown hair that now scraped the ground. "Indeed. Forgive us, Robin, that took some time, but I'm glad the truth is out now."

Robin nodded and bowed. "I am as well. Please, go be with your daughter, we're almost done."

The Shepherds cheered as the last family left the stage, excited chatter filling the air again as they finished off the last of the food and drink.

Robin, though, had one more thing. "Thank you all for listening to our big reveal, such as it was. While I appreciate no one confronting us about this earlier, please for heaven's sake do so next time. Save us the grief."

The Shepherds laughed and cheered, the newest additions still not entirely sure what to do, though they were beginning to relax.

"Now I have a surprise to present to our first four time-travelers." Robin continued, waving for the younger siblings to join him on stage with their sisters. "After much deliberation, work, and negotiating, we've decided it's time for these girls to take the next step."

He grabbed the curtain and gestured to Cynthia. "Cynthia Falk, in recognition of your service to Ylisse in the past, present, and future, I'm proud to announce that you have been chosen as the first Pegasus Knight of the revived Order to become a Falcon Knight. Step forth and receive the seal of your station."

Cynthia beamed with pride as she stepped forth, but couldn't stop a squeal of excitement as Robin pulled the curtain back to show a pristine set of golden armor, the uniform of a Falcon Knight.

"Your mother provided the measurements, so we're sure it fits." Robin continued as he let Cynthia gush over her new armor. "We've also gotten Selene outfitted in her new armor as well. I look forward to seeing you make your first report in it."

Cynthia whipped around and hugged him before jumping off the stage and flying into the laughing arms of her parents, thanks filling the air as she almost cried in joy.

"Morgan Volk," Robin continued, pride radiating from both him and his daughter. "In recognition of your service to Ylisse in the past, present, and future, I'm proud to announce you are the first Pegasus Knight of the new Order to become a Dark Flier. Step forth and receive the seal of your station."

Morgan was almost bouncing out of her boots as Robin moved the curtain back again. She squealed in glee as the uniform of dark leather and steel came into the light, Morgan immediately began to gush over the pauldrons and leg shields.

"We've had Theresa outfitted for the task as well." Robin said, Morgan turning around and leaping into his arms. "Your mother and I designed this set too, so we know you'll love it. Go thank her, and I'll see you doing it proud tomorrow."

Morgan nodded against his chest and kissed his cheek before flying off the stage and into Cordelia's waiting arms. Mother and daughter laughed and cheered alongside the others, Robin watching the scene warmly.

But he didn't want to keep the elder daughters waiting. "Lucina Falk."

Lucina strode forward, her family cheering loudly at her proud stance.

"In recognition of your service to Ylisse in the past, present, and future…" Robin continued, voice loud enough to be heard over the excitement. "I'm proud to announce that you have earned the title of Morningstar, a title that has stood empty for centuries in respect to the brave princess that saved Ylisse from its greatest war following the fall of Grima. Step forth and claim that which was made for you."

Lucina strode forth with all the professional grace she held, but even she could not help the smile that broke through when Robin pulled the curtain back further still. The armor that awaited her was dark blue edged in gold, from the breastplate to her gauntlets, greaves, and boots. A new cape had been sewn using her old one as a base and a shield that resembled the mask she once wore hung next to the armor.

Lucina turned and bowed, no words able to express her gratitude.

"May it serve you well on the battlefield." Robin said with a smile. "Your father and mother designed it, but the shield was a true strike of inspiration from your aunt. You'll have to thank her later."

Lucina knew what he meant and smiled before returning to her family where she was enveloped in a proud embrace.

Finally, there was only Severa, and the crowd hushed as they awaited what Robin had in store for her. This was his eldest daughter after all, and everyone knew that Robin cared deeply for his daughters, so what special surprise had he saved for last?

"Severa Volk," Robin said, silencing the last whispers. "In recognition of your service to Ylisse in the past, present, and future I'm proud to announce that you have been granted the title Grandmaster. Only two have held this post before today, and now you join the ranks of the esteemed. Step forth and claim that which you have earned."

Severa strode up to the curtain as Robin pulled it back the rest of the way, tears gathering in her eyes. "So… that's where my coat went."

Robin almost laughed. The others had been too excited to make a quip, but that was Severa for ya. "Yeah, sorry about that. Had to steal it so your mother could make the changes."

Severa shook her head and inspected the armor. It was bright gold, just like Dad's but made for a woman. The workmanship was excellent though and she silently thrilled at the cowl that had been added and the new designs that her mother had sewn in. It was everything she could've asked for.

And it was all on her own merit.

Robin grunted as Severa sprinted into him, nose digging into his chest as she started to cry. "Thank you… thank you… you have no idea… how much this means to me… to us…"

Robin embraced his daughter tenderly, cheers roaring around them. It was a good night, a time where rewards could be meted out to the worthy and families could be reunited. Now they had a few days to let the new situation sink in before going back to work.

Which likely involved a trip to the Isle of Crows.

-Plegia, Xaldornos-

Within the Plegian capital, the county's new king pondered the message he'd been given.

"Ylisse finally wants to meet. Master's plan is proceeding as expected."

Validar tapped the armrest of his throne, gazing around in thought. Obviously, they'd agree to give Ylisse the ships needed to fight Valm, let their enemies destroy themselves before getting crushed under the might of Grima. The question was if they should go ahead with the ambush on Carrion Isle.

"You might as well." A voice spoke from the doorway and a hooded figure entered the room. "It will test the meddlers and see if the Shepherds have the power to match the Valmese. The Old Gods have chosen them as their champions, but if they cannot stand before the newest batch, then everything is lost."

Validar waved his hand, a purple miasma raising a simple Risen. "I have a feeling they'll be just fine. I have already sent the time and place, they'll come to us, my master. All shall happen as foretold."

The hooded figure chuckled and looked up, six glowing red eyes shining from the shadows. "Indeed, it shall. I will take my leave… oh, before I go."

The figure snapped its fingers and Validar stiffened, his red eyes changing to familiar planes of frozen color. "What… is going on…?"

"Congratulations, Validar." The demon laughed, looking the stunned man in the eye. "You're a grandfather twice over! None alive can claim that now, can they?"

Validar blinked rapidly and snarled. "You… you bastard-!"

The figure snapped his fingers and Validar stiffened again, red returning to his eyes. "…Forgive me, master. That was unbecoming."

"That's quite alright." The demon chuckled, turning and leaving the room.

"I'd be concerned if you weren't shocked, Father."

Ch. End

I was originally going to head off to Carrion Isle after this, but I didn't want too much happening in one chapter. I hope you all enjoy this offering and look forward to next time!

Severa: We got the order in! We'll be ready for next time.

Lucina: I want to know how they keep all those crows calm. It's… kind of amazing.

7: Never doubt professionals, my friends.

Now then, reviews!

Suzaku Mizutani: I explained your question already, so I hope you enjoyed this!

EpitaphEater: Here they are!

Warrior of Six Blades: It's not easy to mobilize after long periods of peace, there's no infrastructure in place to do it efficiently. As for the Valmese, they've had lots of experience, but never dealt with such a well-supplied force before. To put it simply, they got cocky. As for Severa and Lucina, they've confessed prior, but it never went anywhere. That's what Lucina was asking about when she pressed Severa for an answer, because their actions weren't backing up the words.

Anyway, as I said, hope everyone enjoys. See you next time!