Ok, after that lovely time last chapter, let's get on with our bad selves!

Severa: Really? You're using that?

Lucina: It is a tad outdated.

7: You guys have stopped being fun, I hope you know that.

Severa: You're just mad we beat your team in Heroes.

7: No I'm not.

Lucina: 7, you had a Robin and the three versions of Cordelia. All we had to do was get green units.

7: Be quiet you. Trying to draw your Archer version was a pain and I never got it.

Lucina: It's not my fault they set the draw rates so low.

Severa: And we're off topic. Can we get to the story?

7: Fine, we'll continue this discussion later.

To the story!

Flaming Seas

Everything seemed normal when the Shepherds set out that morning.

Their supplies were intact, bodies rested, and minds preoccupied with the upcoming war. All things that had every right to be normal considering what was going on.

Except for two sisters, their morning was anything but normal.

"What happened?" Severa hissed, feeling drastically more irritable than she should've been. Hell, just trying to think was giving her a pounding headache, like she'd downed a whole barrel of swill.

Morgan grimaced back, the sisters whispering next to the supply wagon. "I don't know, but maybe it has to do with what Dad told us this morning. If Validar popped up like that, maybe he caused this."

Severa scowled as her headache worsened. "How could he make these damn things grow? I don't care if he's actually our grandfather, that shouldn't happen. Not to mention how fast it happened, the things have barely changed over years."

Morgan groaned as a headache of her own pulsed with pain. "Like I said, it was just an idea. Just be glad we were able to get the new parts covered before anyone decided to come knocking."

Severa scratched her head irritably, the sight of Lucina walking towards them lessening her headache. "Gonna have to hold off on this, Morg. By the looks of it, we'll have to spill now, so go and use your way-with-words while I take care of Lucy."

Morgan sighed but spurred Theresa towards the familiar figures of their parents. Severa took a moment to compose herself before greeting Lucina. "Lucy, what brings you back here? Thought you were getting some scouting tips from Maribelle and Gaius."

Lucina gave Severa a concerned frown. "Are you ok, Sev? You and Morgan have been… off since this morning. You've both been really irritated ever since we left, I even saw Morgan snap at Noire."

Severa pinched her nose, trying to come up with a decent cover-story. "Honestly, we're tired. I used a lot of energy throwing around all that fire and lightning, not to mention having to slice a dozen Risen to pieces. Morgan's just as bad, but adrenaline kept us up well after we should've been asleep. Give us a nap or an actual bed, should be fine after that."

Lucina hummed before nodding. "Alright, if you say so. I took down my fair share and heaven knows Cynthy and I were out like candles in the wind. In fact, why not go ahead and take a nap in the wagon? I won't tell anyone, you can switch with Morgan after a couple hours."

Severa blinked. "Wait, what? Lucy, I'm tired but not enough to do that. Don't you think I can handle a little exhaustion considering some of the muck we've had to go through?"

Lucina glanced around before reaching out to stroke Severa's cheek. "Sev, please. I know you're plenty capable of continuing the march as is, but it will ease both my heart and yours. Think of it not as a sign of weakness, simply the need to be at your best."

Severa held back a wince as her back cramped, but she took Lucina's hand and squeezed it. "Alright, sheesh. You need to stop using that against me, it's not fair."

Lucina giggled. "I have to, you're too stubborn otherwise. Now go rest, we'll need everyone ready if Valm is to be overcome."

Severa chuckled tiredly before hauling herself into the wagon, Lucina watching her go amusedly. "Silly Sev, everyone needs their rest. The only thing that should keep you up from here on is… well, me."

Lucina chuckled at her less than pure jest. She paused in confusion as the march started to slow to a halt, the Shepherds hurrying towards the front of the line.

Worried, Lucina sprinted after them, almost shoving her way to the front of the crowd as mutters reigned supreme. Once there, she found Gaius, Robin, and her father standing shoulder to shoulder with grim faces.

"We apologize for this." Chrom called over the noise, silencing everyone. "However, Gaius and Robin have come to me with… poor news. Please don't interrupt them."

Lucina frowned, not liking the stormy looks on Robin and Gaius's faces. Whatever this news was, it was bound to bring nothing but trouble.

"This has to do with our recent meeting," Robin began. "Shortly before we met King Validar, I noticed several of the attendants had markings like my own. While this would otherwise be nothing but a curiosity, Gaius noticed a few of the attendants' marks… changing."

Gaius took his turn. "I was following along in the shadows per usual when I saw it. Saw the same symbols I witnessed on the cliff face on our way here. Being my curious self, I asked Sunshine what the symbols meant."

Lucina glanced over to find Tharja scowling deeply, greatly disturbed by this news.

"To put it simply," Gaius continued, "we have a problem. Those guys have lots of dark magic flowing through them, specifically the Fell Dragon's power. Once those marks reach an end stage, they become super berserkers that can supposedly channel the Fell Dragon himself."

Everyone began to mutter, shock the most prevalent emotion, while Lucina's grip on Falchion tightened.

Robin took over. "Before anyone asks, Tharja called it 'Grima's Enlightenment'. I am in no danger of this fate, as we believe only the highest circles of the Grimleal can receive the power. My family, while Grimleal as you know, were not very high on the noble ladder. As such, you need not fear myself going the way of mad prophecy, though please inform me if you notice my mark change."

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. At least they wouldn't have to worry about Robin turning on them.

"The Grimleal we saw are still a possible threat." Robin called, grabbing their attention again. "As such, we need to find a way to neutralize if not reverse the progression of this condition. Doing so will render the future threat moot, but it needs to happen before the war ends lest someone reach the end stage. Especially King Validar."

Lucina felt a shudder pass down her spine. That wouldn't be good at all, especially if Grima's vessel was amongst those Gaius and Robin had seen. Getting to that point would spell doom all over again.

Chrom cleared his throat. "In light of this, I'm ordering anyone with arcane experience to start researching this condition effective immediately. Tharja and Henry, our newest member, are both well versed in the Grimleal culture, so please consult with them. That is all, continue the march."

He turned on his heel and started down the road, Sumia galloping up to him and starting a hurried discussion. The others descended on Tharja and Henry with rabid fury, demanding anything and everything the dark mages knew.

Lucina was more concerned about Morgan, the poor girl sitting stiffly on Theresa while Cynthia tried to comfort her. Deciding to help, Lucina walked over and patted Morgan's leg. "It's alright Morgan, we know you and Sev just have the normal marks. We went through those trust issues a long time ago."

Morgan grimaced. "Thanks for the reminder, Lucy. It's nice knowing we won't be watched at all hours lest we turn into psychopaths."

The biting comment made Lucina flinch. Those few months after they'd discovered Morgan and Severa's brands were not her proudest, even with the justification of knowing so little of Grima's abilities. It had taken a long time before Severa and Morgan were willing to trust anyone in their group after that.

Much to Lucina's eternal shame, she'd even tried to put the sisters out of their misery one night when she was at her lowest. Thank the gods for Cynthia and her eternal optimism, it had convinced the others Morgan and Severa were no threat. She'd even shielded Severa from Falchion's bite and silently dared Lucina to try again.

That was the last time Lucina ever let the idea of hurting them enter her mind.

"Sorry Lucy." Morgan sighed as Lucina got lost in her memories. "I'm just worried is all. Sure, we may not have that problem, but who's to say something else won't happen? I'm just… really uncertain."

Cynthia tried to comfort her again. "It's alright Morg, we're all worried. But, let's focus on getting back to the port first. I heard Noire has some obscure tomes that she thinks can help, and Laurent went to volunteer."

Morgan nodded meekly and spoke no more.

Lucina shook her head and bid the girls farewell, gazing back at the wagon where Severa still slept.

I hope she'll be ok with this. Her brand, Morgan's, and Uncle's may have to be used for the research… no, Lucina, you can't think like that. We'll find a way to reverse that condition, if only to lay their minds at ease.

With her mind set, Lucina set off after her parents, the Shepherds speeding their pace to make Port Halzac with all possible haste. They owed it to the Volk family to find what could only be described as a cure. Every member had done so much for each Shepherd personally and the country at large, they didn't deserve suspicion.

Least of all from her.

-Cordelia-

"Robin, talk to me, what's going on?"

Cordelia was cantering next to her husband, Robin unusually moody. If Cordelia didn't know better, she'd call him brooding and angst-ridden.

"I'm just worried." Robin sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's bad enough knowing we're heading over the sea to another continent, but now we have the threat of high-ranking Plegians going berserk because of some Grimleal voodoo. It's all a lot to process."

Cordelia knew there was more to it than that. Robin had a bad habit of telling half-truths when he was worked up, but years of marriage and living together had clued Cordelia in. Robin would always glance at what was causing him the most stress, even if his words were on something entirely different.

Following his gaze, Cordelia's eyes landed on… Morgan, who'd tried to talk with them before the announcement.

…Oh gods…

Robin sensed her realization and fixed Cordelia with a glare that silenced her disbelief before it could be voiced. "Not. One. Damn. Word. I did indeed spot those marks on the attendants, as far as the others know, that's the extent of it."

His voice fell to a whisper, Cordelia straining to hear him. "The girls though… Gaius noticed them being sneaky and went to check on them only to stumble onto the marks. Severa's… it's a year at best from end stage while Morgan's starting to enter the early stages. Best I can guess, that's the cause of their pain."

Cordelia gulped, fear making her throat thick. "You… you mean the girls…?"

"Not if we have anything to say about it." Robin said. "Just please, for the love of Naga, keep this to yourself. The girls have gone to great lengths to hide this, for good reason. Should their friends find out, especially Lucina…"

Cordelia's breath hitched, visions of Lucina and the other children descending upon Severa and Morgan with weapons drawn crossing her eyes. Then came another, Severa covered in blood and impaled upon Gungnir, the remains of dark energy seeping into the earth. Morgan laid beside her, a gaping slash wound in her back, with sickly purple miasma crawling over her body.

Bile rose up, but she forced it down with a sick gulp. "…I will never allow such a thing to pass."

"Neither will I." Robin agreed. "But let's not allow such a situation to come about in the first place. Please, just be yourself around the girls, don't make them worry. Focus on the Valmese and ending this war swiftly, then we may devote our time to helping them."

Cordelia could only nod. The idea that their girls, the strong and brave women that they were, could fall to such madness… it was just so unfair. Why did every new event, every new revelation, heap further weight upon her family? Not only did war call them away from the children, but now they had to contend with the very blood in their veins?

It just wasn't right.

Sighing, Cordelia reached down to rub Robin's shoulder. "I'm sorry, Robin, but this isn't your fault. I can see you blaming yourself right now for what the girls are going through, but please stop. Not only will it tip them off, you bear no fault in this."

Robin took her hand and squeezed it, voice still quiet. "I know that, but the thought still plagues me. The more I discover of my past and what surrounds it, the greater a curse my presence seems. Just by loving, I have possibly sentenced our daughters to madness. Just by being me and finding happiness… I may have caused untold suffering."

Cordelia couldn't stand him like this. She reached down and hauled him into the saddle with one arm, ignoring his indignant squawks until he was settled. "Robin, how many times do I have to tell you you're not a burden? I remember Chrom telling you more than once that someone's blood does not define them, and here you are using your blood to define yourself."

She kept her gaze forward, but felt Robin wrap his arms around her waist. "I know that too, yet the idea plagues me still. I do not believe it, but my mind refuses to leave it behind. I will conquer it, as I did before we wed, but this will take time."

"Yes, I'd prefer not waking up to a hurried note." Cordelia bit, Robin's grip tightening at the reminder. "But Robin, remember that we love you. My heart and soul are yours, no matter the trial, and our girls need their father. They've lost us once already, do not let fear make them lose us again."

Robin chuckled morosely, his head coming to rest on her pauldron. "You nearly lost yourself to fear when I told you this, yet here you are telling me not to fall to it. Where oh where do you find that resilience?"

"I am a duchess and a mother." Cordelia said, fear fading from her mind. "As you are a duke and a father. We have faced many obstacles in our lives and overcome them, this is no different. In the name of a future where our children and their children may live peacefully, we shall overcome this as well. Am I wrong?"

Robin was silent for a moment before kissing her cheek. "Your wisdom continues to astound me, Cordy. You're correct, we shall overcome this. Our girls will have the future they so desire, no matter what we must face. Even if it should be Naga herself."

"Let's not speak blasphemy dear." Cordelia giggled before turning and kissing him deeply. When she pulled back, she spoke again. "I shall be by your side, always. Whether in person or spirit, remember my words should doubt cloud your mind. I will tell the girls the same."

Robin sighed in amusement. "Now I see why they say a happy wife is a happy life. Thank you, Cordy, I needed that more than I can ever say."

Cordelia smirked and looked at him with a coy gaze. "Well… I like to leave you speechless. Who knows, maybe I'll do one better if you actually come back to the tent tonight."

Robin blinked as she licked her lips, the offer clear.

"…Ok."

Cordelia threw her head back and laughed, long and heartily. She needed that just as bad as Robin needed the talk, so she'd do something special for him tonight.

Time to try that idea with a thunder tome Lissa had told her about.

-Severa-

"Mom, Dad, no, don't be kinky in front of me!"

Severa woke with a jolt, the remains of an extremely embarrassing dream leaving her panting and blushing. Based on the fading light outside, she'd been asleep much longer than planned.

After getting herself in order, Severa climbed out of the wagon to find the tents set up and the Shepherds gathered around their fires. The scent of sea-breeze was on the wind, so they were close to the coast, but Severa doubted they were near the port.

"Severa!" Severa turned to find Vaike jogging up to her. "Just the gal I wanted to see. Say, you up for eating with me and Cher tonight? I already got your sis and folks to agree."

Severa tilted her head in confusion. "Us? Why?"

"We haven't gotten to sit down and chat with you guys in forever!" Vaike laughed. "Heck, tryin' to get anyone to let off steam's a whole 'nother challenge. Everyone's all strung up, for good reasons admittedly, but at least let Cher's cooking'll do you all some good."

Severa stared at him for a time before nodding. "Alright Uncle V, if that's what you want. Honestly, I've kinda missed Aunt Cherche's cooking. Mom's is still the best in my book, but it's neck-and-neck."

Vaike laughed and slapped her back, the force nearly sending Severa to the ground. "That's the spirit! Come on, she's got a roast going. Last one there gets the hind!"

Severa blinked before sprinting after him, calling him unfair and other insults that held no weight. Vaike just laughed and laughed as he led her through the camp, dodging the others with hoots and hollers.

Severa started to laugh and holler back, a rush of joy and adrenaline pumping through her veins from the merry chase. It thrilled her mind and made her blood sing at the surge, almost purging her thoughts of embarrassing dreams and worries.

Sadly, it came to an end when Vaike skidded to a stop before a fire. It held a roasting boar that was already making Severa drool, her family and Cherche seated around the flame while Minerva snored a short ways off.

"Sev, glad you could join us." Cherche greeted warmly. "It's been some time since we've been together like this."

Cordelia nodded and patted the open spot next to her. "Indeed it has. I think we last got together like this… five months ago?"

"Somethin' like that." Vaike agreed as he sat next to Cherche. "None of you wanted to spar this last month either. Y'all gotta learn when to blow off steam."

Robin chuckled. "Vaike, we've been busy. Besides, it's not like you've been free either Mr. Master-at-Arms. You've been putting recruits in the ground every day."

"They got cocky thinking a blade would win against an axe." Morgan laughed, remembering one such incident. "It's something else to see them get beat into the dirt."

Vaike flexed cockily. "They can't handle these rocks, none save Cher can. It's always fun to show them the business end of a blunt chunk o' bronze, makes 'em humble."

"Frederick greatly appreciates your assistance." Cherche stated, idly turning the roast. "Though I feel the urge to remind you to never again attempt sparring with the Exalt or Robin in public. You may hold your own, but it only emboldens the fools."

Vaike gave her an amused smirk. "I believe you like using those fools as target practice with the Knights. Same with Cordelia over there. Think of me as a supplier."

Everyone started to laugh, Severa getting in on the tease. "Uncle V, you couldn't supply dirt to a farm. It amazes me to this day your house is still standing!"

Vaike gave her a playful scowl. "Hey, don't go dissing my work! Cher and I built that with our own two hands!"

"Four hands dear." Cherche corrected with a giggle. "Unless you need to tell me something."

Vaike shrugged with a grin as everyone laughed. "Hey, I'll play the fool all day, it's just nice to hear something that isn't sullen mumbling."

That quieted the laughter, Vaike frowning as everyone started looking at the ground. "For the love of - guys, come on. Ya can't get so tied up in stuff like this, it ain't good for ya."

"We try, Vaike." Cordelia sighed, glancing to her family for a moment. "We just have so much to do, so much on our shoulders. We're determined to overcome these responsibilities, but that leaves little time for reveling."

Vaike took a breath and sighed. "That's why you hav'ta take what you can get. Bein' under stress like this for too long's going to make a dullard out of anyone. I've had to tell that to Cherche a lot when she was the palace matron, even more so after her order got started. Dear Naga, take tonight and relax, we don't know how many more we got."

Everyone stared at him, stunned by his words. Cherche chuckled and wrapped him in an embrace. "Look at you, being wise. Good thing Miriel's not here, she'd die of shock."

Vaike groaned in annoyance as the light atmosphere returned, everyone losing themselves to chatter and laughter as the roast finished cooking.

Once it was close to done, Severa grunted in curiosity as Cherche pulled out a bottle. "What's that?"

"A little oil." Cherche answered, a flick of her wrist sending a spray of light liquid over the roast, the oil swiftly catching and crisping the skin. "It's made out of olives which are common in Roseanne."

Severa nodded as Cherche began to carve the meat, Robin helping by turning the roast as directed. "Anything else out of Valm that flammable? Pretty sure only pitch lights that quick here."

Cherche hummed in thought before nodding. "There's several species of tree that are filled with sap that's prone to catching. They mostly use it in coastal towns due to the abundance of water to put it out, not to mention the sap itself is almost waterproof."

Severa nodded and took her share of the meat, an idea turning over in her head as they ate. It simmered and stewed as Vaike did a silly dance with Robin, it slowly began to boil as Morgan was utterly humiliated by Cherche in arm-wrestling, and it came to a nice finish when Cherche started to tell a story at Cordelia's insistence.

"So, girls, this is what happened when I came back to Ylisstol." Cherche began after everyone had their share of roast. "I'd been touring Ylisse for several months, but after a number of misadventures that saw me end my journey in Draconis, I was nervous."

She smiled at her audience, the girls leaning in with interest. "I'd done a lot of growth on my trip and I felt ready to come back and defend the home I'd come to know. Problem was, I didn't know if I'd be welcomed back after so long. This is after your parents got engaged, just so you girls know."

Severa and Morgan nodded, eager to hear this.

"Eventually, 'Nerva over there convinced me to buck up and return to Ylisstol." Cherche continued, unknowingly using Vaike's nickname. "Oh, you should've seen me, shaking in my boots as we flew towards the city. I was so nervous I almost dropped my peace offering."

Vaike chuckled and patted his belt, the buckle and leather shining. "It's this thing, so you know. I've taken real good care of it."

Cherche nodded and started humming. "When we got there, it was just past sunrise. I was through the gates since the guards recognized me, but I almost turned around when I reached the garrison."

"That's when you found Uncle V in the stable!" Morgan guffawed. "Tell me, is it true he was wearing nothing but his smalls?"

Cherche got a silly smile on her face. "That's true, yes. Found him lying in a stable with nothing but his shorts. Not exactly the greatest reunion, but he tried to cover himself with the straw! Screamed like a scandalized maid too."

Vaike was scowling with a luminescent blush, the others howling with laughter.

"It was good to seem him though." Cherche chuckled fondly. "He was more than welcoming after getting dressed, gladly listened to my every tale while we waited for the others to either wake or arrive. We ate, had a couple competitions at Vaike's insistence, then… we reaffirmed our roles as partners."

The way she said that caused amused smiles to rise on everyone's face, Morgan giving voice to the obvious. "That's where you… confessed? After seeing him in his smalls?"

"Smacked one right on my cheek." Vaike chuckled, rubbing his arm when Cherche punched him playfully. "Woo boy, never been that shocked in all my life. Well, twice after that, when she actually said yes to marrying me and when we found out Gerome was on the way."

Cherche took his hand tenderly. "It's still one of my fondest memories. I swore we'd be partners again when I came back, I just… stretched the definition a bit."

"Please, Cher." Vaike shot back. "You just wanted me for my muscles."

Cherche clicked her teeth at him, like she was biting something. "That's a side benefit dear, don't be too proud of yourself. I always wanted a nibble, but someone needed to keep your ego in check."

"Would you stop?" Robin groaned, Cordelia nodding in agreement. "It's bad enough when everyone's flirting as is, but you two act like you're going to do it right here."

Cherche shrugged and laughed. "Oh, you're so much fun to tease, your whole family in fact! We've never gone further than the other was comfortable with, you know that."

Cordelia sighed. "Yeah, we know, doesn't make it any less awkward. It's getting late though, we need to turn in if we'll make it to port tomorrow."

Vaike looked up to see stars twinkling overhead. "Oh no! I needed to get Maribelle a set of lavender shoots, she's gonna kill me!"

Cherche chuckled and handed him a small sack. "Here you go, best get on your way. I'll get Minerva her share and we'll get ready for bed."

She nodded to the Volk family. "Goodnight my friends, I hope you'll have pleasant dreams. Girls, remember to come and chat with us every so often ok? We like seeing our nieces too."

Severa and Morgan nodded with smiles, Vaike giving everyone quick hugs before dashing into the camp. Cherche gave her own embraces before gathering a stack of roast she'd set aside and walking over to Minerva.

With the meal over, the family started back towards their tents, idle chatter about the stories Vaike and Cherche shared filling the air. Severa, though, was almost lost in her own mind. Her idea was looking more and more viable the longer she thought on it, but she felt now wasn't the best time to bring it up.

"What's on your mind Severa?" Cordelia asked when they came up to the girls' tent. "You've been distracted ever since we left Vaike and Cherche."

Severa played with her hair, still not entirely sure she should share. "Just… thinking on what Aunt Cherche said about those trees. If they're so sappy, do they just harvest the sap and use it as a sealant?"

"That would make the most sense." Morgan said, trying to see where Severa was going with this. "Who in their right mind would use sappy wood for building?"

Robin chuckled. "Theater masters."

His family guffawed at the idea, but Severa shook her head. "No, I was just thinking that if the ships of the Valmese fleet used that sap as well, we could use that as an advantage. It'll depend on what Plegia sends us, but… I may have an idea or two based on what happens."

"Catapults and fliers raining fire." Robin muttered, catching on instantly. "Or if we have more ships than we need, fire ships."

Cordelia caught on in concert with Morgan, the pair grinning. "That means we'll be doing some firebombing then. We'll need to tell Miriel, her blasts and the rocks should be able to destroy a ship by themselves."

Morgan started to cackle. "That'll be sure to scare them straight if nothing else! We may even drive the fleet off!"

Robin brought them back to reality. "Let's see how many ships we get first, yes? Remember, we want to keep casualties to a minimum on both sides, I refuse to break more families than absolutely necessary."

He looked to Severa and Morgan, eyes soft. "We're soldiers, yes, but we are not butchers. Let us not sink to the level of these would-be conquerors until we find no other alternative."

Severa nodded, an old creed entering her thoughts. Tacticians sought victory before battle was joined, and should the battle end before it began, then they'd done their job. Only fools sought to utterly destroy the enemy.

Morgan took a deep breath to calm down. "Right, sorry, got caught up in having an idea of what we could do. I'll be ready regardless of what you guys come up with. …Unless it involves horse plop, then I do not volunteer."

Cordelia ruffled her hair. "And here I thought you liked stable duty. Looks like we'll have to see it in person when we get back."

Morgan immediately started complaining, only for Robin to pat her shoulder. "Actually, I'll need you and your mother to help me out. I want to be part of the scout runs after we're on the water, and I want Sev to join us. We'll be bringing Miriel and Basilio along too, so we'll need Cynthia and Cherche while we're at it."

Severa paled at the thought, already knowing what would happen.

"Oh no."

-One Week Later-

"Morgan, stop doing rolls, I'm gonna be sick!"

Morgan just laughed and pulled up, Theresa's hooves skimming the water as they settled into a glide. "Come on Sev, live a little! You're the one who wanted to know what it's like flying over the ocean."

"Not while you-urp-try and work on tricks!" Severa burped, face pale and clammy. "I'm having enough trouble on the ship as is."

Morgan laughed again and they pulled up from the water, the fleet they currently called home stretching out behind them.

It was quite the surprise when the Plegian ships arrived in Port Halzac, the vessels numbering over a thousand, from merchantmen to war vessels. It was a sight grand enough to make the Shepherds gape, especially when they learned the smallest vessel could hold almost two hundred men comfortably.

Even after accounting for supplies, even those the ships came with, there were at least two hundred vessels designated as 'rear support'. In other words, there was simply no other use for them besides reserves.

Robin and Chrom got a kick out of the show. It looked like Plegia was really trying to endear itself with the sheer amount of support granted, despite giving no troops for the coming battles.

It was still workable at least, considering they now had the ability to form a true presence on the sea. It would doubtlessly help keep supplies flowing to the armies that now sailed for Valm.

The Shepherds, unsurprisingly, got a ship all their own. Positioned in the center of the fleet, the ship was large enough to house the offices, stables, and laboratories that the Shepherds required to go about their tasks and manage their forces.

It also granted them privacy, where the rank-and-file wouldn't see their otherwise confident commanders getting terribly seasick.

Poor Severa had it worst of the bunch. She didn't do well with violent motions in general, such as Pegasus rolls, but she thought a ship would be ok. Then they crested their first large wave and she lost her lunch before Naga and country.

Even being below decks, where the motion of the sea was barely noticeable, Severa still felt queasy. It had taken the combined expertise of Libra and Lissa to concoct a medicine that soothed the worse of her seasickness, which in turn cured everyone else suffering from it.

Severa's troubles didn't stop there, though her most pressing issue was objectively rather silly. She and Lucina had, during the wait in Port Halzac, gone on several dates in secret. At the end of one such date, they'd come close to… consummating their desires.

Severa, though, had pulled out after going to the bathroom to cool off and discovered that her mark had grown just past the covering again. In a panic, she'd run from the room Lucina had sequestered them in and raced to find Morgan.

Hers had grown too, though not to the same extent.

They couldn't do much about it except use the rest of their sludge to cover the new growth and pray something wouldn't happen to drive the marks to full size.

Severa then had to deal with a very upset girlfriend, who only calmed down after Severa explained she'd gotten cold feet and promised to make it up to her at the first possible chance. Lucina had agreed, they'd worked out the frustration of being interrupted by sparring intensely with their friends and family, then found they'd been assigned the same room on the ship.

The look Lucina had given Severa damn near made her knees turn to jelly.

Knowing Lucina would be waiting in the room on the first night, Severa had tried to psych herself up. She'd even, at great embarrassment, asked Robin how one could prepare an intimate night for their partner.

Robin had stared at her for a long time before sighing and giving oddly detailed advice. Severa knew he had experience with Mother, but she wasn't expecting him to be so accepting of her and Lucina taking the next step.

Those plans came to an end when Severa discovered her seasickness. Lucina was perfectly understanding at first, but as the days went by now that Severa had her medicine, Lucina was getting… anxious.

"Thinking about how Lucy tried to seduce you in the galley?" Morgan asked, breaking Severa from her recollections. "You really need to be with her, Sev. I understand being nervous about the first time, but we'll be meeting the Valmese before long. Best to get rid of the jitters so the rest of the trip is enjoyable, yeah?"

Severa grunted at the reminder. Lucina had forgotten their relationship was supposed to be a secret that morning at breakfast. Basically, Severa was eating after another dose of medicine to make sure it stayed down only for Lucina to tap her shoulder. When she'd turned to look, Lucina leaned down and proceeded to make out with her.

In plain view of everyone.

Chrom dropped his fork, if memory served.

When she was done, Lucina whispered something sinful in Severa's ear before sauntering off, Cynthia screeched in laughter a moment later followed by Morgan. Everyone else just looked at each other, fished out their purses, and many dozens of coins went flowing over to a smug Cordelia and Sumia.

Severa had slinked off on this patrol to get away from it all.

"I'm sure her parents are talking to her." Severa muttered as they reached the edge of their scouting range. "As I'm sure Mother will want to talk to me. I wasn't expecting everyone to have bets on me and her, but considering their gambling issues… yeah, it's not that surprising."

Morgan chuckled, eyes scanning the blue sea for any sign of the Valmese. "Yeah, they like to make bets on anything, we learned that a while ago. I've seen Gaius and Maribelle make bets on what color someone's going to wear on a given day."

Severa groaned and looked down, nothing else to see but sea and sky. "I know, I'm just annoyed… alright, how's this? If you promise to take us down gently so we can run our hands through the water, I'll sit Lucy down and get this sorted. Sound good?"

Morgan giggled and leaned back to look Severa in the eye. "Alright, if you say so. Should I tell everyone to stay away from that deck tonight too? You're really loud."

Severa smacked Morgan, her sister yelping in complaint. "Quiet you, at least I don't have to explain how stains get on the roof."

Morgan muttered a foul curse but guided Theresa towards the water. Once they were close enough, Severa pulled off her gloves and dipped her hands into the cool sea, marveling at the feeling of seawater rushing past her fingers and spraying her face.

Morgan was doing the same on the opposite side, though with a mischievous grin.

"Ya!"

Severa lurched as Theresa picked up speed and turned upside down, Morgan whooping in joy and dragging both hands through the water while holding on with her thighs. Once she had her fun, Morgan righted Theresa with a laugh. "That was fun, right Sev?"

Silence answered her.

Frowning, Morgan noticed a distinct lack of pressure around her wait where Severa normally hung on. Then she looked back and spotted a floundering speck of purple dozens of yards away in the water.

"Oh Naga, Severa!" Morgan screamed, yanking hard on the reins and directing Theresa back. She raced over the waves before coming to a stop over her panicking sister, the weight of her armor and coat seeking to drag her under.

Morgan sent Theresa into the water, the Pegasus strong enough to keep herself and Morgan afloat. A quick paddle later brought them alongside Severa, where Morgan grabbed her sister's arm and hauled her sopping wet body into the saddle. "Gods Sev, I'm so sorry! I didn't think you'd let go!"

Severa panted and spat, seawater splashing past her lips. "Never… do that again, you understand? I'll come back and haunt you for the rest of eternity."

Morgan nodded guiltily. "I'm really sorry Sev, I'll do something to make up for it."

"Good…" Severa sighed, a shaky hand pointing to something in the distance. "You can start by taking us back, we need to let everyone know about that."

Morgan followed the hand, gaze hardening at the dots on the horizon.

"Valm."

-Robin-

The last thing he expected from Morgan and Severa's patrol was to see his eldest daughter sopping wet. Nor was he expecting them to explain she'd fallen into the sea because of a dumb idea on Morgan's part, which in turn led them past their forward scouting lines.

Where they spotted the Valmese fleet coming towards them.

Thus he found himself directing a dozen boats to and fro, carrying much of the oil Plegia had given them to ships being vacated excepting a skeleton crew. He'd come up with a perfect solution to remove the Valmese navy from play, but it would require a sacrifice.

Namely, many of the ships they'd brought, the others still capable of holding the soldiers that the ones being sacrificed were carrying. He'd have to thank Flavia and Basilio for pointing out that there simply weren't enough catapults or fliers for the original siege strategy to work.

He'd been informed a few hours later that the Valmese fleet was following the lead of a single ship, which Basilio pointed out as the coordinator vessel. If they could take it down, then most of the fleet would be stranded and open to a charge.

What better way to accomplish all this than say, by vessels filled to the brim with oil that would burn at the slightest spark?

Robin had to give the Khans credit. They'd taken Robin and Severa's explanation about the Valmese wood that was likely used by the ships and the presence of Plegian pitch to draft such a nasty plan. Now they just needed to wait for the lead ship to enter visual range and they could enact the plan.

"Something eating at you?" Donnel asked as he walked by, Sol in hand. "You've been quiet since we ordered the boys out o' the boats."

Robin sighed and scratched the scruff forming on his chin. "Just thinking is all. The Khans and Chrom helped me come up with this plan, but Severa's the one in charge of executing it. Even with Sumia assisting and the Shepherds leading the assault, she's never handled an operation of this scale before."

"Neither have you." Donnel reminded. "But we both know she's capable and Miriel's on standby if we need a trump-card, same with Olivia. You just need to focus on getting this battle over with before figuring out where everyone'll be staying on this ship."

He started to walk away. "We are going to give Lucina and Severa their space tonight, right?"

Robin shot him a rude salute but didn't answer otherwise. Once he was gone, Robin sighed and made for the lower decks, passing several soldiers and Shepherds hurrying to get the plan ready. Amongst this mess, he found Olivia directing several wyvern knights, their mounts nearby and loaded with oil barrels.

"Take those to the ship directly east, ask for the captain." Olivia said, wrapping up. "Remember, the barrels have to be somewhere they can spill the most pitch on collision, but not before. See to it!"

The knights saluted and left, Olivia turning to see Robin. "Oh, hello. Everything's going as smoothly as can be expected considering the Valmese will be on us in a few hours."

Robin nodded in thanks. "That's not what I was going to ask, but that's good to hear. Do you mind doing a scry of the lead vessel? I know it takes it out of you, but we've got a few hours, as you've said."

Olivia frowned, but sighed with a nod. Robin patted her shoulder and led her to the aft of the ship. The ones the Shepherds were on was large enough to have its own wharf on the aft that was folded up when not in use, but now it served as a staging ground for the small boats and fliers transporting pitch and soldiers.

Olivia chose a spot at the edge of the main wharf, the hustle and bustle falling away as she placed her hand in the water. A moment later, her eyes shone blue and the water swirled before stilling into a smooth surface at odds with the waves around it.

Then, it shifted once more to show the image of a sturdy vessel with red trimming, the flag of Valm raised high over the ship.

"They've spotted us." Olivia muttered, brow furrowed in concentration. "The soldiers speak of a man named Ignatius, the leader of the fleet. Apparently only him and his crew are veteran sailors, all others are green and know little of these waters."

Robin hummed in thought, playing with the information. "What can you find on Ignatius? Knowing even a small tendency is enough to tip the scales in our favor."

Olivia scowled, and the image changed, showing an older man in a suit of crimson plate. Based on the angle, she was using a washing basin. "He's… thinking that we're pups, don't know the sea as he does. Believes that we'll be crushed because he has the ships and the know-how to use them."

Robin scowled. "We'll see about that. Thank you, Olivia, go rest. We should be ready to go by the time you've recovered."

Olivia relaxed, the image fading and the water returning to normal. She staggered as she rose to her feet, but Robin steadied her and guided her inside. Once settled, Robin bid Olivia farewell and went to the top deck.

Sumia was the first one he recognized, her gaze set on the horizon while a circlet of gold marked her as the queen amongst the soldiers. It was a tad at odds with her armor and the purple-pink robes she favored, but she cut a regal figure regardless, especially with Gae-Bolg bared in her grip.

"Robin," she greeted, "what can I do for you?"

Robin took the spot next to her and followed her gaze, the horizon almost black with the clearing outlines of ships. "Just… wanting to ask that you keep an eye on Severa. I will be assaulting one of the side ships with Lucina and Cordelia as you know, and I have already asked Lissa to keep an eye on Morgan while they assault the other ship."

Sumia nodded, wind whipping her hair around them. "I will do so, my old friend, so long as you promise the same with Lucina. Cynthia shall be watched over by Cherche, so I hold no fear there, but I do wish our eldest girls to finally show their love."

She turned to Robin with a teasing smile. "I know Chrom and I always considered you family, but to think we may be in-laws one day… such a way life has of binding us together, no?"

Robin hummed in agreement, eyes tracking the crimson streak his wife made as she patrolled the skies above. "Indeed, Sumia, indeed. Let us see this business at its end first before we entertain such thoughts, for I will not rest easily until Valm's fleet rests upon the sea-floor."

Sumia sighed and fixed him with a look. "Were you not speaking of minimizing casualties this morning?"

"There's no other option." Robin countered, cold logic taking hold. "Olivia has shown me the commander to be an arrogant and dogmatic man who believes his experience alone shall win the day. I have little doubt defeating him shall send the other Valmese into a desperate panic that will claim many of our own before they are defeated."

"Sinking them is the only way to minimize casualties at this juncture."

Sumia held his gaze for several moments before looking away. "Very well, I simply wished to make sure. Be prepared my friend, for it is on Severa's word we send the ships forth. In many ways…"

"All that blood will be on her hands, and she knows it. It is your duty as a father to handle the aftermath."

Robin scowled but nodded. "I am aware, Your Highness. If I may have your leave, there are other matters I must attend to."

Sumia glared at him. "Robin, I am simply making you aware of what may happen, I wasn't insulting your ability to be a father. Even you must realize this."

Robin winced at the admonishment, his flight to Fenrir's Canyon coming to mind. "…You're right, Sumia, forgive my tone. I simply worry that Severa has inherited that same poor habit from myself and her mother. If she has, guilt will weigh heavily on her after this."

Sumia smiled in return. "The Shepherds are her family, Robin, we shall all stand beside and support her. We swore as much when little Lucy first entered the world, and it stands for all our children."

She looked to the horizon again, the lead Valmese ship nearly discernable. "We have little time left. Gather your family, Robin, hold them close. I will do the same with mine before we part."

Robin bowed and left, Sumia doing the same a moment later. Robin sent a signal skyward that was met with the sound of wingbeats as Cordelia and Morgan settled onto the deck, Severa chose that moment to come out from belowdecks with a spyglass in hand.

"Severa, come here!" Robin called, Morgan and Cordelia dismounting for what they thought was a family meeting. Severa rolled her eyes, but made her way over, arms crossed when she joined them.

Robin looked at each in turn before swooping forward and embracing them in a great hug. His girls squawked in alarm and indignation, but Robin's grip held firm. "Please, please be safe, all of you. I… I couldn't go on if I lost any of you."

Their struggles stopped, and Robin felt their arms circle him. He'd wanted to do this before the harbor had been attacked, but he'd been unable to. Now, he'd said at least a part of what he wanted to say.

"I love you all." Robin whispered, voice only for them. "I love you all so much. I am with you, no matter the trials we face in the fight ahead. Believe in those you hold dear as I believe in you, and no darkness shall harm you."

"Believe in the bonds we've made."

Robin soaked in the warmth of his family for a moment before he felt them shaking. "What's wrong?"

Snorts and giggles then met his ears, wife and daughters bursting into laughter. Robin felt his arms go limp, letting them go at the same time, while his face twisted in anger. "I just poured out my heart and soul to you! How dare you laugh at my worry!"

Severa shook her head and cleared tears from her eyes. "Daddy, we're laughing at how corny you are, not your worry. You're always such a dork, hearing something so heartfelt was just a little much… ya know?"

She hiccupped, something very unlike amusement thickening her voice. "I just, uh… don't remember ever actually believing those words. Everyone always told us to believe, but… geez, this is the first time I actually do."

Morgan wrapped an arm around her sister, a wide grin showing pearly whites. "That's what Dad's for, right? To make us believe despite being a complete ham. Why, I've never felt more inspired than I do right now!"

Her cheery words were at odds with the tears in her eyes, Robin's words rekindling her belief in coming out alive once more. That belief, that desire… Robin could tell it had been missing in them, even after years of peace.

"I do love your corny words." Cordelia laughed as she hugged Robin this time. "Though I see why you leave improvising speeches up to Chrom, you're even worse than usual thinking it up on the spot."

Robin still had his frown, making Cordelia smile helplessly. "Yet, you wear your heart on your sleeve with those words, and I love that honesty so very much. I'd have you no other way my love, and I rise each morning simply to see you smile. I will not let something like a battle stand in the way of that."

She kissed him, their daughters playfully gagging before making themselves scarce. Robin kissed her back, the tender meeting unbroken for as long as the pair wished. When they finally parted, Robin and Cordelia smiled at each other, love shining in their eyes.

"I love you," Robin said. "I'll never say it enough, my angel. Will you fight beside me in this battle?"

Cordelia stroked his cheek. "You already assigned me to your squad, but since you asked…"

She kissed him again.

"I will follow you anywhere, my brave wolf."

-Severa, Four Hours Later-

Severa looked to her compatriots for the coming battle, the deck of the ship cleared of all save her team. "Everyone ready?"

They nodded and Severa took the time to look them over. Sumia and Chrom were coming with, the Exalt pulling rank to be allowed on board, which meant Frederick and Nowi were there as well. Her friends were still 'in training' according to the Shepherds, so she was the only time-walker here.

Beyond that, she had Lon'qu, Ricken, Vaike, and Sully. A decent mix all told, but Ricken was her only other source of magic. It wouldn't be fun staying back, but she had a feeling there'd be plenty of swordplay.

"The ship draws near, milady!" The captain roared from the wheel. "Be ready!"

Severa stopped thinking and focused on her target. The ship was large and imposing, its decks teeming with soldiers seeking to end them and the hope they represented.

Severa wouldn't give them a chance to use those numbers.

"Ragnarok!"

Her tome glowed violently, a pillar of flame birthed on the Valmese deck. The sudden flare turned a dozen sailors to ash while scattering the others, a blast of crystal flame blowing a hole in the deck.

Nodding to Nowi's dragon form, Severa took her place next to the planks. "On my mark, board! Ricken, scatter them!"

Ricken raised his hand, wind flying forth to rip several Valmese Pegasus knights out of the sky as they tried to dive. The wind continued onto the Valmese ship, tossing the soldiers waiting for them like chaff, at least a dozen sent to watery graves while a few unlucky souls were torn to pieces.

"Brace!"

Severa did her best, but the groan of splintering and scraping wood still clawed at her ears as the ships collided. The force nearly wrenched her into the sea, but Chrom's firm hand kept her on deck. Nodding her thanks, Severa kicked down the plank. "Charge!"

The Shepherds did so, Sumia taking to the air where she skewered another Pegasus knight before swooping along the side of the boat, two men impaled on Gae-Bolg in one pass.

Lon'qu blurred forward, Balmung flashing in his lone hand as it sundered the chest of the first opponent he found. Nowi took to the air a moment later, jaws clamping on a cavalier. After breaking him, she sent flaming death onto a group of archers trying to shoot Sumia.

When she drew close to the deck on another pass, a knight with a wyrmslayer came riding forth, aiming to open her belly. Frederick thundered into his path and caught the man by his throat, his horse cantering past rider-less.

"Pick a god and pray." Frederick said coldly before snapping the knight's neck in his grip. Almost casually, his lance shot back to impale an ambusher before he dropped the corpse and drew a sword to block another attack. His shield slammed into his opponent, stunning them long enough for Frederick to open their throat.

Chrom was no slouch, taking down three cavaliers in two strikes. The first strike sundered one man at the waist, the follow-through burying Falchion in the next man's spine. Gradivus ended a spearman that tried to poke him to death, the legendary blade breaking the spear and man who held it.

Sully, to round out the initial charge, trampled everything in her path. Her blade hacked apart limbs and weapons alike, not one to stand before her charge escaping with their lives. It was… disturbing to see her relish so much in the fight, but she always was hot-blooded.

Severa was just glad they'd cleared the deck so quickly. Ricken had blown entire groups off the ship with Forseti, his blade sampling its fair share of blood when the Valmese tried to flank him. It was only Severa beside him that kept the Dark Knight aware of his surroundings.

A pillar of light to starboard told Severa that Lissa had unleashed Ivaldi, the other ship split in two amidships. While that wasn't part of the plan, Severa couldn't fault her aunt for wanting to end the fight quickly.

A similar wave of fire to port showed her mother getting frustrated, the ship turned to little more than flaming wreckage. Both sides showed the Shepherds abandoning ship, but Severa was more focused on the great figure of red steel that had somehow stalled Lon'qu and Sully's assault.

The man had an entire line of heavily armored knights formed around him, the sheer thickness of the metal stopping even Balmung cold. The knights were disciplined too, every strike that went against them met with a withering barrage of lance strikes and spears.

"Nowi, get behind them!" Severa shouted, tome glowing once more. "I'll blow a hole in their line!"

Chrom spotted something, but was too late to stop her spell. "Severa, wait!"

The script flowed and fire bloomed, but Severa saw the line still intact when the flames dissipated, only Chrom's speed saving her from a spear to the shoulder.

"The armor's enchanted!" Chrom shouted over the roars of battle and tide. "Magic fizzles before it even reaches them, we need to get in close!"

Severa nodded and turned to their last member, who was busy beating a man to death with another's severed arms. "Vaike, crush them! Sully, support him, the rest of us will take whatever opportunity we can find!"

Vaike roared in answer, his blood surging at the idea of more killing. With Armads whirling in his grip, Vaike leapt onto the line and smashed two knights aside, his axe crushing their armor and bodies like tin.

The opening shocked the others, but Vaike still earned several new wounds to his already scarred body as he crushed another knight into paste.

Sully took advantage of the hole and distraction to ram the general, the force sending the man back a dozen paces. Sully leapt off her horse and dropkicked him, sending him to the deck.

The action came with a price, as the general's lance impaled her through the gut.

"You've the ferocity of demons!" The general shouted as Sully stared at him blankly. "But even you cannot win against the tides that carry this fleet! It shall crush you as surely as waves upon the rocks!"

Sully tilted her head, ignoring Nowi crashing into the deck and flinging another knight into the sea. "You say that like you killed me."

The general scoffed, but noticed something sizzling. He strained his neck to look past Sully, expecting to see his lance coated with her blood.

Much to his shock and confusion, the lance wasn't there. All he could see were the remains of the once sturdy weapon, the wooden shaft aflame while the blade was pocked like it had chunks scooped out of it.

Then he craned further and watched in alarm as the blood dripping onto his armor sizzled before burning a hole through the steel. Right as he saw that, the first drops met his skin.

Pain filled his mind and he screamed, Sully smiling grimly. "My blood is magma, jackass. You've done nothing but put holes in your armor like this."

She proved it by jamming her blade through one such hole, blood cooling Sully's own. Three more stabs left the general too weak to do anything but spit at her in defiance.

Sully glared at him. "You know what, you talked an awful lot about the sea."

She stood and grabbed his arm, trailing burning blood all the way to the ship's railing. The others just watched, the rest of the Valmese on board slain.

Sully stared out at the rolling waves before glaring back at the general. "If you love the sea so much, then you can be buried in it. Drown, you bastard."

With that, Sully threw him into the drink, the general sinking like a rock. Sully in turn collapsed, the force required to throw him dislocating her shoulder while the blood loss was starting to hit her.

"No time like the present!" Severa barked when no one moved. "Grab Sully and get the hell off this ship, I'll send the signal!"

Everyone burst into motion, Frederick retrieving Sully while everyone else either galloped back onto the ship or hitched a ride on Nowi's bulk. Sumia remained with Severa, a smug smile flashing at her goddaughter. "Honey, you can't tell me what I can and cannot do, you don't have the rank. Besides, I'm your ride."

Severa groaned before conjuring a ball of lightning in hand and pitching it straight up. A moment later, it exploded into a howling wolf, but none who knew the magic missed the tinge of purple on the margins.

Thankfully those who noticed were none of the time-walkers.

With the signal given, Severa clambered into Selene's saddle and they took to the air. Not a moment too soon either as Severa watched the plan she'd helped create take shape.

The Valmese were in utter confusion after watching two ships be struck down by divine wrath and the lead ship go silent. So confused in fact, the Ylissean fire ships were able to close distance with them easily, the wedge they formed driving into the heart of the Valmese fleet.

At first only wood, bodies, and steel filled the air. Then came the pitch, coating every inch of the Valmese fleet in the tar that stuck to everything it met, not one ship spared. It turned out sailing in a block was not the best idea when it came to naval warfare.

Severa gulped as she watched the pitch blacken the sea, a pool of ruthlessness she rarely tapped bearing the brunt of the final order. "…Set it aflame."

And it was so.

Sumia tapped Severa's tome and channeled enough power for a simple ball of fire. With a flick of her wrist, Sumia sent the fire tumbling into the pitch, flame consuming all in its path as it began to devour the Valmese fleet.

It was a sight that would haunt every survivor for the rest of their days. The sea itself burning, choking black smoke rolling through the air, the screams of the Valmese burning alive.

The acrid scent of scorched flesh.

No one took the sight well, at least those with a soul that witnessed the event, but Severa took it the worst. "Aunty… I don't… feel good…"

Sumia immediately dove back to the ship and helped Severa to the railing, just barely making it in time for Severa to empty her gut. She was weeping while she vomited, the sight of so much fresh death, at her hand, driving Severa to despair.

"Honey, please, breathe." Sumia pleaded as Severa began to choke on her own tears. "You are not a monster, child, this was the only way. The Valmese would see us all sink to the sea-floor and never lose sleep."

Severa gulped in a breath, her words mixed with sobs. "But… I killed them Aunty… Naga in heaven I killed them all! How does that not make me a monster?!"

Sumia rubbed her back, doing her best to soothe the distraught girl. "Monsters do not weep for the lost, nor do they mourn those that sought to kill them. This is a sign of your compassion and kind heart."

Severa continued to sob and hiccup, Sumia eventually being replaced by Cordelia. "Severa, my love, please come inside. You need to rest."

"And let the nightmares have me?" Severa bit out, anger mixing with her despair. "No matter the time, Mother, or what happens next… I am cursed now. Cursed to forever remember this… to remember the lives I ended."

Cordelia could do nothing more than offer sweet nothings and a gentle embrace, the other worried Shepherds parting silently as she guided her daughter into the ship and back to her room.

Once inside, Cordelia laid Severa to bed, the poor girl having cried herself into an exhausted sleep upon arrival. "Sweet child, what I would do to take these feelings upon myself. What your sister and your father would do to take them too."

She took Severa's hand and sent a prayer to Naga, asking for sweet dreams this time. "I can only hope you'll remember how much you're loved, Severa. They say it takes a village to raise a child, but it takes the same to support someone too. Please, remember we're here for you."

On instinct, she hummed her favorite lullaby. The notes likely didn't register in Severa's exhausted mind, but her furrowed brow relaxed, and her breathing evened.

Seeing this, Cordelia slowly pulled away until she was by the door, a quiet wish for a restful sleep whispered before she was gone.

The room was dark and silent for a time until a shadow danced across the ceiling, dozens of baleful red eyes gazing down at the sleeping girl.

"The time comes…" one whispered, its voice eerily familiar. "And the future continues as foretold…"

The shadow and eyes vanished, none the wiser of their presence.

-Night-

Severa woke to find her room utterly dark and silent, the very nature of it disquieting enough to make her get up and flee to the hallway.

The halls were similarly quiet, but torches gave a relieving glow that guided Severa out of the bowels of the ship and into the open night air.

"I was asleep that long…" She muttered, gazing at the stars above. "Gods, I must look a mess."

Her breath stank too, but that was no surprise. Thankfully, someone had left a chest of mint on the deck, probably for seasickness. With that taken care of, Severa made for the railing and looked to the water, watching the waves pass by silently.

"…Severa?"

The voice barely registered, Severa glancing over to see Lucina walking towards her in sleepwear. "Oh, hey Lucy. Just woke up…"

Lucina frowned and walked up, taking Severa's hand gently. "Severa, do you want to talk? I'm here for you if you want."

Severa kept her eyes on the water. "Lucy… not really, no. I just… don't feel like anyone's going to want to talk to me after what I did. Even if I talk to you, who's to say you'll let me talk about it again?"

Lucina's frown deepened, and her grip tightened. "Severa, I will always listen to you. Anyone in the Shepherds would, your family especially. Do you… feel like this makes you unloved?"

"Of course, no one loves monsters." Severa answered, voice stoic. "I've put more Risen in the ground than that entire fleet probably, but those were undead, it was a mercy to end them. This though… I broke families Lucy, thousands of them. I… I can't be loved after that."

Lucina sighed and kissed Severa's cheek, long and slow. Once sure she had Severa's attention, Lucina took her other hand. "Severa… you are loved, so very much. If you want me to, I can show you just how much you are loved. It'll just be me tonight, but… I'm sure the others will show you how much they care."

Severa looked down at their hands, uncertain. "Lucy… are you sure we should do this tonight? I'm… I'm not in my best mind."

"That's fine, Sev, I'll do whatever you want." Lucina answered, drawing closer. "The moment you want none of it, I will stop. The moment something's uncomfortable, I will stop. Whatever lets me show you just how much I love you."

Severa went silent, Lucina waiting patiently for her lover to come to a decision.

"…Please."

Lucina looked from their hands to find Severa gazing at her desperately. "I need you Lucy… so badly…"

"Show me you still love me. Please."

That was all the permission Lucina could ask for, her lips going to Severa's with a deep passion. They stood there and kissed tenderly for almost ten minutes before separating, their eyes half-lidded and clouded.

"We… should take this to the room."

Severa nodded before diving in, tongues getting involved this time. How they made it back to their room without trailing clothes behind was a matter of speculation, but they did so anyway. Once the door closed, a burning desire took hold and clothes were swiftly shed.

Dreams months-old came to fruition that night as the girls consummated their love. Light touches, passionate kisses, and more visceral acts filled the room. Lucina was gentle and took great pains to make Severa comfortable, even when they lost themselves half-way and their actions became fast, hurried, and intense.

Reminiscent of rabbits, if nothing else.

Oddly, their brands didn't react to their passion. One of Lucina's fears at advancing to this stage was the burning they'd experienced during their first kiss. If a simple press of lips was enough to cause that pain, what could less innocent actions do to them?

Those thoughts didn't enter their minds in the end, the glow of finally fulfilling their desires enough for the night. As they lay to sleep, bodies pressed together, Severa forgot her earlier sorrow.

If just for the night.

Ch. End

Woo, got a little hot there at the end eh?

Severa: We won't need an M-rating now right?

Lucina: He didn't describe our intimacy in detail, I think we're fine.

7: Just glad the tension's over with, now to write Lucina as a minor nymphomaniac.

Lucina: Motion denied.

Severa: Seconded.

7: Aw, c'mon, it's hilarious!

Lucina: And utterly against who I am as a person. Don't get carried away 7.

Severa: Yeah, we need you at least somewhat grounded.

7: Alright, alright, spoilsports. I'm no good writing that kind of stuff anyway, better to let imagination do the work for me.

Anyway, hope you all enjoyed the chapter and look forward to more!

…

I... I'm sorry to say this everyone, but our beta, vaguekiwi, will be stepping away from Fanfiction for personal reasons. There's no way of know if she'll ever come back, so her role here is essentially retired. It's been three years since she joined started helping me on this story's original draft, and we've been through a lot together. While I and the cast are beyond sad to see her go, we all know life calls everyone away at some point.

Thank you for the years and laughs, Kiwi. We'll miss you deeply and wish you all the best.

On that sad note, I'll have to open a search for a new beta-reader. If anyone who reads feels up to the task, please pm me and we'll talk.

Kiwi and I want this story finished, so by heaven it's going to happen.

That's all, I'm sorry to bring the mood down.

Ciao!