Alright then, off we go into the wonderful world of Valm! This chapter will start the arc off, first with the groups leaving as one before splitting up. Then, we follow one of them through the first part of their journey and learn a bit about these regiments following them.

First though, let's get the victory parade return!

Setting Out

Severa woke from the best sleep of her life to the sound of cheers.

"What's… going on?" She mumbled, a bleary look around revealing she'd fallen asleep at her desk again. "Morgan… are you there?"

A familiar snore drew Severa's gaze to the other chair in the room, Morgan's head lolled back and was set in a dopey grin. "Mm… no, I can't Owain… not another strudel… oh if you insist…"

Severa's vision cleared and she rubbed the crust from her eyes. "Geez, course it's that. Maybe he'll finally take the hint if we find him."

She rolled her shoulders and stood, surprised to find herself limber despite sleeping on the desk. "Huh, guess I found a good position. Anyway, come on Morg, we're late for the morning rounds."

Severa shook Morgan until the red-head snapped awake. She wiped the trail of drool from her cheek and grinned at Severa. "I don't know about you, but I feel great! Who knew a chair like this could be so darned comfortable?"

"Same." Severa grunted in agreement. "But that means we have energy and the day's wasting. Come on, may as well do something useful so Uncle Gaius can stop thinking we're going to run off."

Morgan stood and stretched with a content groan. "Yeah… though we are still tagging along, right?"

Severa rolled her eyes and made for the door. "Of course, but I need to bathe and change. I for one refuse to smell like sweat and old cheese."

"On that, we can agree." Morgan chuckled as she played with a ratty lock of hair. "But what's all that cheering I hear outside?"

Severa played with the edge of her coat and sighed. "We're about to find out, come on."

They trundled out of the room and down to the lobby, not a soul in sight. Curious, they pushed through the doors into the open air and covered their ears as sound roared over them.

"Hail the Khan Lioness! Hail the Khan Lioness!"

The cheer filled the air with thunderous aplomb, Severa and Morgan barely able to see over the celebrating soldiers. They could just glimpse Khan Flavia's familiar pony-tail before the tide of soldiers blocked their sight and moved away from the inn.

"She's back…" Severa sighed in relief. "That means we can get a full report. Piecemeal reports may give a lot of views but something central will be nice. Even if it's in Flavia's handwriting."

Morgan grabbed her arm and pulled. "That can wait, come on! With all the excitement, the baths should be free. We won't have to worry about anyone seeing our brands right now."

Severa scowled at the reminder but snuck away with Morgan. As her sister said, the arrival of the Khan had emptied the bathing area, letting the sisters grab what they needed and appropriate some towels for privacy.

Severa thought little of the privacy, quite pleased with the energy in her limbs. She didn't know quite why her sleep had been so restful, but they had fallen asleep much earlier than usual. Maybe getting an early rest was all she needed after the last few weeks of staying up until dawn?

… Yeah, that was it.

Severa hummed as she disrobed and looked around. No one was there to see her cheat a bit, so she called flame to her hand and held it under the basin of water until it was steaming.

Shortly thereafter she sunk into the warm water with a content sigh, letting the grime and sweat of the last few days melt away alongside her worries.

Her bliss was interrupted when Morgan screeched, throwing aside the towel and leaping at her. "Sev, I need to see your back!"

Severa yelped as Morgan dived into her, the bath tipping over and water splashing across the ground. They wrestled for several seconds before Severa overpowered Morgan and forced her off. "What's this about my back dammit?! It better be important too, you don't just charge your sister in the buff!"

"First, I would never intrude on Lucy's territory, that's just bleh." Morgan snarled before pointing to her chest. "But this is why I need to see your back! Flip over already!"

Severa held Morgan away before glancing at her chest. She gasped; breath frozen in her lungs. "…Morg… is that what I think?"

Morgan nodded and pulled back, hand tracing the new tattoo wrapped around her brand. "Yeah… looks like a seal, and a strong one at that. I can still… feel the brand, but it's more like a fading whisper than the presence it was."

Now that Severa thought about it, the dark cloud that had been hanging over her thoughts was gone. It had been with her almost as long as she could remember, weighing her down and whispering hurtful words whenever she rested.

Denial seized her and Severa called on anger, her defense's forte, only to gasp as no pain greeted the upwelling of rage. It was like a nail had finally been pulled from her flesh, so great was the relief.

"But… how?" Severa asked, mindlessly turning around to let Morgan inspect her back. "The brands… they were so extensive…"

Morgan scanned her sister's back and chuckled weakly, tears gathering in her eyes. "I… I don't know! Probably something to do with Uncle Gaius, I guess? I mean…"

"…We fell asleep after he brought us that food." Severa finished, anger returning full force and with no pain to contain it. "He knew about the brands, that's where that whole 'Enlightenment' bit came from. Everyone who's been working on that research… they must've made the seal."

Morgan was quiet for a time before adding her thoughts. "…Mom and Dad probably knew too. Uncle Gaius wouldn't have done something like that without… talking to them."

"Making decisions for us again." Severa snarled, sinking back into the bath to stew on her anger. "It's not like I'd have said no to getting these brands sealed away, but what the hell is with the secrecy? We're family and can keep secrets, that should be enough for them to trust us."

She harrumphed and scowled at the water. "Yet they still don't, even now."

Morgan sighed and patted Severa's shoulder. "Hey, that's not fair. Sure, I'm ticked at them doing this without letting us know first but think about where we are. Valm's big on Naga and the Voice herself is in our army. Revealing we're… Grimleal nobles by blood would not go over well."

"The reasons have nothing to do with this." Severa snapped, anger smoldering in her voice. "It's about trust, and the lack they've shown us. I have one bad day and suddenly nothing I say means anything."

Morgan squeezed her shoulder. "Sev, you didn't just have a bad day, you had a breakdown. We all know that the fleet's fate still weighs on you, and it's only been around two months since then. I'm not saying what they did is right, or that we shouldn't be mad, but there's still reason for this. Besides, there's a silver lining."

She smiled and poked Severa's neck. "You can make Lucy into mush on a regular basis now!"

Severa blushed and sunk further into the water. "Just… finish your bath and get ready. If they're not going to trust us with something like this, then we have no choice but to stick to them like glue."

Morgan giggled and put the towel back in place before returning to her bath. Severa, annoyed and embarrassed, took a few minutes to stew before furiously cleaning herself. Now wasn't the time to think about taking her time, she needed to give her parents a piece of her mind.

"Oh, is someone here?"

Severa blinked as she prepared to pour the last of the water over her head. That was Emmeryn's voice, what was she doing here? "Two are in here yes! Who are you?"

"It's Jennifer, Sev." Emmeryn called as she entered, Severa glancing over her protective cloth to see the former exalt in her disguise. "I just came by since there's such a spectacle dragging everyone away. Are you almost done?"

A splash was Severa's answer as she poured out the final rinse. Emmeryn waited patiently before the towels were taken down and Severa walked up to her, dressed in a fresh shirt and pants. "Just done. Anything we need to know?"

Emmeryn gave her a kind smile, smile, her eyes lingered on Severa's flushed skin a moment longer than necessary. "Just that the departure times have been decided. All representatives and their retinues are to leave tomorrow morning, no exceptions."

"That soon?" Morgan asked as she joined them, bath supplies in hand. "I thought it'd take a couple days at least to get everything organized."

Emmeryn cupped her chin, thumb digging into skin as her curse grew stronger. "Our forces are well-trained, so you have the Shepherds to thank for that. Same with yourselves, as I recall. Did you not recommend the protocols for such an eventuality, Morgan?"

Morgan laughed awkwardly. "Right… well, thanks for telling us. We need to have a chat with our parents before they go, so don't let us keep you."

They bowed to Emmeryn and left, Severa throwing on her coat after pushing her own supplies into Morgan's arms. As they bickered, they missed Emmeryn collapse to the ground, ignorant to the sheer willpower she'd displayed.

"Naga… it does get worse…" Emmeryn panted once she was sure they were gone. "I… don't think I can… do it if… all four of them were to…"

Calling that awkward would be a severe understatement. Thankfully she was to be away from the Volks for the coming mission, so she'd have time to try and figure out the true terms of the trial and its curse.

Hopefully she'd get an answer.

-Robin-

"Just... wow."

Robin was sitting in the command tent with Cordelia, the pair finishing up their explanation of the previous night's events to Chrom and Sumia. A light show like what the ritual put out was bound to be noticed, so they were nipping the rumors in the bud.

Sumia's sighed words made Cordelia look away. "We know this… isn't the best time to inform you of what's been going on, but that's the truth. Please, don't tell the others for now, there's more important things to focus on."

"I think the possibility of our nieces being enthralled by a mad dragon is quite important." Chrom snarled, glaring at them with enough heat to melt steel. "While I sympathize with your reasons and applaud taking care of it prior to us having to leave, this is a major breach in your oaths of office."

Sumia locked Robin in place with a glare of her own before glancing to Cordelia. "The same goes for you, Cordelia. Decisions like this, that can affect not only our families, but the halidom, cannot be made on your authority alone. You should've brought this to us well before we even left Port Halzac."

"And don't make the excuse about the 'Enlightenment' you told us about." Chrom grunted as Robin opened his mouth. "While I'm quite sure it's a legitimate threat, this and that are very different. How do you suppose we explain this to Lady Tiki and Lady Say'ri, let alone any of the more stubborn members of our forces?"

Robin sat back and balled his hands in his jacket, frustrated. "We didn't want to cause panic, especially since it would divide our forces. You've seen what the soldiers have been like since Lady Tiki arrived, and the rebels trickling in have treated her like a goddess. If the girls were outed, that would mean the rebels would assume I'm the same."

"Not to mention they'd get into their heads I'm tainted." Cordelia muttered. "Telling the public Severa and Morgan are Robin's relatives was convenient in peacetime, but it's driven us to this."

Sumia shook her head and sighed. "Here I thought we purged that line of thinking from the repertoire of sermons. Prosperity brings its own problems and they choose now to show themselves."

"There's little we can do about it." Chrom said. "To return to the topic at hand, you will both be punished for this breach of trust. While I can't levy it in the current situation, know that it will be severe. We can't let such actions be excused lest it set a dangerous precedent."

Robin and Cordelia bowed their heads silently, accepting the punishment, whatever it would be.

Sumia cleared her throat and tried to dispel the somber air. "If nothing else, I'm glad the burden of those brands has been lifted. With Flavia up to speed, we can proceed with the plan without delay."

Chrom agreed, tone shifting to business. "We'll be able to move out on time for certain, I've already seen as much. Frederica and her men were already packed when I inspected their quarters while Orlan popped in to relay his report. Have you two spoken to Eris and Jagen?"

"We have." Robin confirmed, still frustrated. "Eris will have her knights ready by dawn, same with Jagen. Best estimates put our arrival at two weeks, with the return trip at half that time."

Cordelia added her thoughts. "We can shave it down to four days if everyone flies, but it will exhaust the pegasi. The Silverwings are more than capable on foot, but they will be much less effective should we do that."

"We're all bound to encounter resistance on the way." Chrom grunted, hand going to Falchion's hilt. "I'd prefer the journey there take the official time while we hurry home. Just in case the Conqueror gets sick of us and marshals his whole host."

Sumia gave him an unamused stare. "Then we'll send Gaius in and end this in one shot. But such a thing is unlikely to pass until Walhart sees us as an actual threat."

Cordelia looked to her husband and nodded. "Indeed… which means this has to work if we're going to make our move."

Robin chuckled morosely and shook his head. "Fort Steiger, the jewel of the Valmese empire. Take that and we're not only legitimate, but we have the best defensive position in the known world."

"We're also hemmed in to the north and south." Sumia reminded. "Hopefully, while Walhart's rallying his forces in the north, we can remove Yen'fay from the equation. From what Say'ri's said, he's the biggest threat next to Walhart himself."

Chrom clapped his hands and brought the meeting to an end. "If he's as she says, he'll have predicted our plans. As such, we need to get back to our preparations. Be safe on the road, both of you, there's still much to see after this war is won."

Robin and Cordelia stood, bowed, and left the tent. Chrom and Sumia remained, silent for a time, before Sumia groaned. "What a mess. I can only imagine what Lucy and Cynthy would've done."

"Probably kept it secret too." Chrom muttered as he leaned back in his seat. "Searched for every possible way to remove or seal the brands. Though… if they were in as deep a hole as I think they were in their future, finding out about it then may have ended poorly."

Sumia wanted to protest the idea that their daughters would ever think of… that. Unfortunately, she couldn't rule it out, and that fact left a bitter taste in her mouth.

"I love you," Chrom comforted. "And we need not worry about that now, it's been taken care of. How's this? We'll get lunch with the girls and call off any other meetings. Then, it's just you and me the rest of the day."

Sumia smiled at him and nodded, the couple sharing a deep kiss before wandering outside and into the bustle once more.

-Lucina-

"Are you seeing what I'm seeing?"

Lucina's question went to her sister and Laurent, their task paused as they watched Severa and Morgan storm past them and accost the approaching pair of Robin and Cordelia. There was a lot of yelling coming from the girls, but what it was couldn't be heard over the regular din of the day.

"That I am." Laurent confirmed as he adjusted his spectacles. "It appears your lover and sister-in-law are having quite the fight with their parents."

Lucina groaned as Cynthia laughed at her, the younger sister sitting on a crate. "Morgan is not my sister-in-law. How many times do I have to say it before you get that through your head?"

"Many more and a complete breakdown in your relationship with Severa." Laurent answered without pause. "To be frank, it's been clear how deeply you've loved each other for many years. I'm still flabbergasted you haven't offered her a formal proposal."

Cynthia fell into a fit of giggles, recovering just long enough to rib her sister. "Yeah, Lucy! I want to call Sev my sis too, same with Morg! Just go find a jeweler in one of the towns when we're on the march and pick out a ring!"

Lucina smacked Cynthia hard enough to send her off the box. Lucina ignored the angry squawks of her sister to answer Laurent. "I don't believe my love life has any bearing on what's occurring, especially since we've had barely a moment together with how busy everything is."

"True," Laurent conceded as he watched the Volk-family-argument get heated. "But the fact remains that we still have a war to fight and Plegia to deal with afterwards. It… won't do for anyone to have regrets."

Lucina sighed. "As you've said many times, despite never broaching the topic with Nah? Did her growth spurt not give you cause perfecta?"

"I am well aware of my hypocrisy." Laurent said with a scowl. "I merely ask that you learn from my cowardice is all."

Cynthia regained her perch and poked Lucina's cheek. "He's right you know. Sure, you've both been busy, but ever since you shared a night together it's been kind of awkward. A peck here or holding hands in the command center, but nothing else. Where'd the bravery go?"

"Again, with my love life, Ms. 'Confessed to the Wyvern, not the Rider'." Lucina shot back, making Cynthia cringe. "I do love Severa, more than anything as you know, but I will ask for her hand properly. That… simply requires the war to be over."

Laurent sighed and gestured to the argument. "A grand requirement indeed. However, reprieve comes for you in the form of a family quarrel that we are bound to be sucked into."

Lucina blinked and listened, the sounds of arguing much clearer now.

"Just trust us dammit! You owe us that much after pulling that bullshit!"

That was Severa and she was pissed.

"And we won't take no for an answer now either! You lost that privilege with us, no matter what you say!"

"Morgan too?" Cynthia whispered as the Volk family came close. "Damn, what did Uncle and Auntie do?"

Lucina shrugged and approached the arguing family. "We're about to find out. Excuse me, what's going on?"

Her voice stopped the argument in its tracks, the Volk family clammed up as Lucina approached. Seeing this, Cynthia frowned and hopped from her perch. "I have a bad feeling about this."

"Indeed," Laurent agreed as they joined Lucina. "Now then, who would like to explain this scene you're all making?"

Robin caught his bearings first and attempted to explain. "We… may have moved Severa and Morgan's postings without their knowledge. They're quite upset with us, as you can tell."

A silent conversation passed between the family, communicated only in glances, before Cordelia added to the story. "Morgan's going to be joining the northern patrols for a time, so she won't be here at the base for a few weeks. Severa's going to oversee the organization of our forces to the south, and they're upset we had to decide that without them."

"It's complete bullshit." Severa seethed, anger genuine. "I need to be here or something, not off on errands. I'm a Grandmaster, but I can't do anything if I'm not trusted to do my godsdamned job!"

Morgan was equally enraged. "Same with me! My squad's better suited for forward scouting and harassment, not patrols in the woods! I can't work to my strengths running around a bunch of trees!"

"We've discussed this!" Cordelia snapped, frustration showing. "We cannot always work within our strengths and are often required where we're not perfect fits. Use this as a chance to learn."

Severa ground her teeth, fire in her eyes. "We have learned and been learning for long enough! Trust us to work and adapt here where the fight is, not where we're 'safe'! You gave us the titles and responsibilities, so either show the trust that that entails or demote us already!"

"Never!" Robin barked. "You earned those positions and you know it! Though I'm starting to question it now if you cannot see why we placed you where you are!"

All went silent, Lucina and Cynthia trading shocked glances while Laurent hid his expression behind the brim of his hat.

"Robin!" Cordelia admonished, shocked he would say such a thing. "You're being foolish!"

Robin realized his poor words and looked away. He couldn't bear to see the looks of shock and genuine hurt on his daughters' faces. "…I'm sorry, that was horrid of me."

He didn't look at them, preferring the ground. "I do trust you… we both trust you. Please, just go to the posts and you'll understand. Take Lucina or Cynthia with you, any one of your friends."

He turned and walked away; head still bowed in shame. Cordelia reached out for him, desperate to follow, before sighing and looking at her girls. "You know he doesn't mean that, we're… just worried is all. We'll always be worried, but we do trust you. I would never let you leave my side if I didn't trust you, same with your father."

She tried to smile, but it only looked forlorn. "Just give it some time, ok? All of you have the rest of today off, do what you want to relax or blow off steam. Um… if it's not too much trouble, can we have one last family dinner before this all starts?"

Her question went unanswered, neither Severa nor Morgan bending as they glared at their mother. Cordelia accepted defeat and strode away, only Cynthia able to see the sparkle of tears gathering in her eyes.

The street was quiet for a time, only the bustle of the base to distract the remaining witnesses. Eventually, Morgan stormed off, Cynthia sharing a few quick words with Laurent before running after her. He then excused himself and walked off, leaving Lucina with her seething lover.

"…Sev?" Lucina tried, laying a tender hand on her lover's shoulder. "What was that all about? I've… only seen you and Morgan blow up like that once."

Severa snarled and turned her glare to Lucina. "It's none of your business is what that was about. Now are you going to spar with me or what?"

Lucina balked at the glare but kept her gentle tone. "That's fine, if you tell me what's wrong. I wouldn't be much of a girlfriend if I didn't at least know that."

"Like you've asked much while we've been here." Severa snapped back, making Lucina frown. "But if you're that set on it, then win the information off me. You're good for that bet at least."

Lucina did not like the Severa she was talking to one bit. "…Very well, but no magic, practice swords only. If I'm to discover your troubles, there will be no trickery."

Severa grumbled something about trickery before storming towards the training grounds. Lucina followed at a more sedate pace, but always kept the bouncing purple twin-tails in view.

She's so angry… but there's no pain to accompany it, like there's been for so long. Maybe the visit to the Mila Tree was able to purge that curse? But if that's the case, then something like being assigned away from base wouldn't make her mad.

Lucina sighed as she reached the training grounds, Severa already set up in one of the numerous sparring circles. Her coat was carefully folded atop two sheathes, and Lucina was glad to see she still treasured the article.

Severa tossed one of the blunt swords to Lucina. "Can't call this a duel if there's no stakes for you. You win, I'll spill my guts. I win, you're mine the whole day and night."

There was an undercurrent to that demand that made Lucina's spine tingle in a mix of concern and excitement. "I see… very well, but know I won't go easy on you."

"When have you ever?" Severa snarked as they took their positions. "Come on, Princess, show me that time on the ships didn't dull your sword-arm."

Lucina held out her sword and started to strafe towards Severa, her opponent matching her move for move. Lucina remained patient, knowing that Severa was too riled up to be very precise or calculating. Those two virtues made her the best single-fighter back in their time, but they were nowhere to be found now.

As shown when Severa roared and leapt at Lucina, blade held high.

Lucina took in the charge calmly, noting the dozens of openings Severa would never normally show. Even in their regular spars, Lucina had never been able to claim better than an even-split, such was Severa's normal ability.

This was not that ability.

Severa grunted as Lucina drove the blunt tip of her blade into Severa's gut, sending the angered girl to the ground. Severa leapt back to her feet and charged again, scoring a hard blow to Lucina's side. The princess responded with a riposte that cracked against Severa's ribs and drove the air from her.

The pattern repeated every round. Severa would charge, land a hard hit, only to get sent to the ground by Lucina's far more precise strikes. They beat the tar out of each other for almost an hour before the end came.

Severa, bruised and wheezing, was still standing. Lucina, equally bruised and panting, stood opposite her.

"I… got you now… Princess…" Severa coughed, her breakfast staining the ground from an earlier strike. "Come and… get me…"

Lucina felt the aching bruises on her body, but stayed focused. Severa was going to aim for a head blow to end the fight, it was the only option in the other girl's tired and anger-addled mind. This would be the end.

Severa did as predicted and charged with her blade to the side, intent on sweeping the blunt edge into Lucina's temple. It was done with all the grace of a drunk though and Lucina ducked under the strike to deliver a punishing punch to Severa's battered gut.

Severa slumped over the strike and dropped her blade, arms crossed over her stomach as she collapsed to her knees. Lucina stepped back and tossed her blade aside, falling to a knee to hold Severa up. "Hey… we'll talk later, let's get you patched up."

Severa choked, a sob escaping her throat. With one came another… and another… and another.

Lucina pulled her lover close as Severa started to weep, stroking her back gently. "It's alright, Sev, it's alright. Talk to me when you're ready, ok?"

Severa wrapped shaky arms around Lucina and wept harder, venting raw frustration, anger, and sadness for the first time in years. It was too much to handle, all she could do was cry.

Lucina whispered sweet words and lifted Severa into her arms, making the slow journey to the first-aid tent with all due care. The cleric on duty gaped at the size of their bruises but treated them all the same.

Severa was still hiccupping as they left the tent, Lucina holding her hand as they walked away from the training grounds.

"Are you ready to talk?" Lucina asked after they made their return to the command center. "I'll be right here until you are."

Severa shook her head and guided Lucina to her room. Once they were inside and the door was locked, Severa pulled Lucina onto the bed and snuggled into her.

"I… I know the post is important." Severa muttered after listening to Lucina's heartbeat for a few minutes. "I know that… but… it's so frustrating. I'm a Grandmaster, I earned this burden. Why are… why are they trying to shelter me now?"

Lucina stroked Severa's hair, doing her best to soothe the frustration. "I know how you feel, Sev. It's frustrating that Father and Mother make me stay here rather than guard them or lead the Shepherds in their endeavors. Still they shelter us… yet I can't help but wonder if we've asked them to."

She put a finger on Severa's lips, sealing her rebuke. "I mean look at the last few years, or even when we first met them. In many ways, we wanted to be children again, and we have been. We've lived these years like dreams, and… perhaps we simply don't want to wake up?"

Severa moved Lucina's finger and pecked at her knuckles. "I… guess that's kind of true. Morgan and I have been really soaking in the affection, so… maybe I don't want to wake up after all."

Her tone darkened in bitterness. "But that dream's done, for now. I'm willing to let that go, to be what's asked of me, but now they need to wake up."

Lucina sighed and stroked Severa's chin. "They'll come around; I know it. They can't keep us or our skills out of the fight for long, we're too useful. For now, all we can do it be patient and do what we can to help."

She leaned in and pressed a kiss to Severa's jaw, eyes alight with passion. "Though… we do have today off, and I've been very neglectful in my duties as your lover."

Severa blinked and found herself on her back, Lucina straddling her with a sinful smile. "Shall I rectify that? All…day…long?"

Severa shivered at Lucina's words, all she could muster was:

"Have at it."

-Morgan, Evening-

"I knew this'd happen."

Morgan sighed as she helped Cynthia limp along, the pair bruised and singed from their duel. They'd been at it for hours, strikes flying both on foot and Pegasus-back until the dregs of Morgan's anger were drained.

They'd denied any help from the first-aid tent, preferring to return to the command center and rest. Morgan in particular had prep-work to complete before the delegations left in the morning, but Cynthia was her primary concern.

"You know… I always… put my everything behind… my spars…" Cynthia panted, a wince accompanying every move. "Lucy… Sev…Kjelle… no one ever held back… so why should I?"

Morgan shook her head. "You wouldn't be limping if you'd just let me vent. Going all-out like that let me get in some nasty hits."

Cynthia chuckled and scratched her cheek. "Well… what can I say? I've only… ever seen you that mad… once before."

"When Owain almost got himself killed, yeah." Morgan muttered bitterly. "Honestly, if I run into him at this point, I'm just gonna kiss him and get it over with. You should do the same with Gerome."

Cynthia blushed and stuttered. "B-b-but I can't just do that! You can, since it's my dummy of a cousin, but Gerome's different! He's…"

Morgan smirked and egged her friend on. "He's what? Dreamy? Cool? A stud you want to-"

"Morgan Arcadia Volk if you finish that sentence, I will end you!" Cynthia shouted, making everyone nearby jump in surprise. Morgan just laughed at the blush painting Cynthia's face and guided her into the command center.

Once Cynthia was relaxing in a chair, Morgan's ears perked up. "Say… Lucy went after Sev, right?"

Cynthia paused in her attempt to check her leg, only to groan. "Come on, really? How long have they been at it?"

Morgan shrugged and gestured to the second floor, where a great racket of creaking wood could be heard. "Like they're the only ones. We got a few couples splitting up so they're making the most of it."

"Wish they'd find somewhere else to do it." Sully grunted as she joined them. "Caught Gaius and Maribelle rutting in one of the supply tents, but at least they were creative. This lot, not so much."

She shrugged and took a seat next to Cynthia. "So, you guys still pissed off? Been hearing talk of a real hard spar lasting all day."

"Less than this morning." Morgan said with a shrug. "But still a bit mad. Let me drop a prank on my parents and I'll be ok. Sev's… getting taken care of."

A loud cry made Sully guffaw. "I see! Well, what kind of plan do you have? Aunt Sully here's more than willing to help!"

Morgan tapped her chin, a hammy look of thought crossing her face. "Well… you know where the Silverwings keep their gear, right?"

"I'm not gonna help you sabotage one of the honor guards." Sully deadpanned. "Something else, petty and quick."

Morgan shrugged with a smug grin. "Hey, can't blame me for trying. But no, Mom's storing her gear with them last I heard, and I really want to get her back for sticking me in the woods."

"Oh, I think I know what you have in mind." Cynthia cackled, catching on. "What color are we painting her stuff?"

Sully chuckled, a dastardly grin on her lips. "I have a feeling it'll be the one color she can't stand."

They laughed and cheered in stereo.

"Yellow!"

-Robin, Dinner-

"I have a bad feeling."

Cordelia's spoon paused as she looked to him, not sure how to feel about that. "How so?"

"I'm… not sure." Robin hedged, eyes scanning the various tables. All the Shepherds were there, one last gathering before splitting up again. What was making him uneasy were the glances Morgan and Severa kept sharing, mischief evident in their eyes.

Cordelia finished her bite and hummed. "Well, I'm just glad the girls have calmed down. Even if it took Lucina and Cynthia beating them black and blue."

"Not to mention putting roosters to shame." Robin cracked, Cordelia snorting into her bowl. "I mean sheesh, not even Sully's that bad."

Cordelia cleared her throat and glanced over to catch Severa's blush. "Yes, well, whatever's needed. We've done much ourselves to relieve stress, so let's not throw stones, hm?"

"True, we've had some electrifying times." Robin chuckled, Cordelia slapping his arm for that remark. "But that aside, I'm glad they're willing to be where they need to be. Those reports of Risen we got this morning are less than timely."

Severa and Morgan stopped their conversation to stare at them, the eldest speaking. "Wait, what? The Risen showed up? Where?!"

"To the south and north." Robin answered, making the girls' eyes widen. "The sightings just so happen to be where we're posting you."

Morgan glanced around before leaning in to whisper. "That was actually a thing? I thought it was just a clever ruse so we could keep arguing."

"It was merely convenient timing." Cordelia said smoothly. "And besides, we all know the Risen appearing is an ill omen. We can't waste troops exterminating them, but the people they threaten will be looking to either us or Valm to deal with them."

Robin smiled and crossed his arms. "Which is where you and your friends come in. Sev, someone needs to take over as commander of our forces in Roseanne, Basilio and Eve have our base and the north covered. Morg, Eve needs a fast-response unit so the Risen don't wreck her trap corridors."

Severa and Morgan shared looks before shaking their heads.

"Think of it this way." Cordelia tried when no response was forthcoming. "We're giving you both a lot of freedom now. Roseanne is in your hands, Sev, while we dedicate a great deal of our defenses to your sharp eyes, Morg. Isn't that what you wanted?"

"For us to trust you?"

The use of their own words was a hard blow for the girls, Severa almost buckling under the guilt. Morgan recovered first, voice tinged with regret. "I mean… yeah, I guess. It's just…"

She trailed off and her parents gave the most reassuring smiles they could, Robin taking the lead. "We're sorry, for everything, but this is how it has to be. We cannot hope to regain your trust so soon after what we did, but that doesn't mean you've lost ours."

"Go and be great." Cordelia added, eyes like a warm hearth. "We know, all of us here, that you and your friends can do amazing things. You crossed time to see the world saved, no one else can say that. You are far and away up to the task."

A loudly cleared throat interrupted the conversation, the family pulling away from their own world to see all the Shepherds looking at them, grins and smiles in abundance.

"Well if that's no reason to toast, I don't know what is!" Vaike crowed as he raised his mug. "That goes for all of you! We may have to split this party up, but we're still a big family of dipshits! Damn the peoples' opinions, you'll always have that!"

The Shepherds roared their support, Sully adding to the cheer. "And don't ya dare be afraid to talk to us, ya hear?! We're sure you can kick ass all day, but that don't mean we don't want a piece of the pie! Ain't that right, Kel?"

Kellam chuckled and put his arm over Kjelle's shoulder, holding her close despite a blush blazing to life on her cheeks. "Of course, we'll be here to help you always, even in spirit when we're off on patrols and the like."

"Gregor know friends in good hands!" Gregor roared, already two mugs in. "Laurent too smart for Risen and Valm, for he is son of Gregor and Miriel!"

Miriel rolled her eyes at him, though the affectionate smile on her lips said otherwise. Laurent hid a shaky smile behind his hat-brim, moved by the passion in his father's words.

Virion raised his own toast. "And may we all meet here again before the end. I do so wish to show the fruits of this land when they are ripe to my family."

Chrom and Sumia rose from their seats at that, drinks raised high. All followed suit, Lucina and Cynthia standing with backs un-bowed beside them.

"To Ylisse!" Chrom declared

"To family!" Sumia cheered.

"To peace!" All roared before guzzling, more than a few having to stop as they choked on their drinks.

Dinner turned into a party after that, the Shepherds enjoying themselves as much as they could. Petty brawls, lurid ballads, drinking contests, and more raged in the command center that night. Robin at least had the forethought to get everything important stored safely, but they wrecked the lobby.

And it only got wilder when the taguels and manaketes got into a shifting competition.

-Eris, Morning-

"Has anyone seen our illustrious leaders?"

The Silverwings' captain was ready to go, her regiment getting ready. While it was quite usual for them to be ready before any other unit in the Alliance, not seeing Cordelia or Sumia by now was… strange.

"I heard there was one of the famous 'Shepherds Brawls' last night, ma'am." One of her soldiers called out. "Only one that didn't get caught up in it all was Lady Jennifer."

Eris groaned and put on her helmet. "That's where I'll find them then. Elena, you've the regiment, take them to the edge of town and form up with the Thornshields!"

Her subordinate saluted and Eris jogged into town. The rank-and-file parted for her like waves before a ship, but it wasn't long before another fell in beside her. "Going to see our terribly hungover leaders?"

"Someone has to, Lady Jennifer." Eris answered the diplomat. "My regiment is to leave with the Commander and Grandmaster by sunrise and they're making us wait."

Jennifer chuckled and played with a strand of her dark hair. "True, but you know how they are. It's always difficult to split up the family no matter the reason."

Eris hummed in answer and kept marching. Jennifer said nothing further, following the captain to the command center and smiling as Eris's face turned sour. "That damage is quite the sight, no?"

Eris kept the sour scowl and gestured to the three dragon heads sticking out of the walls. "How in the nine hells did Lady Tiki get involved? Last I checked she wasn't even staying in the command center."

"Who knows?" Jennifer chirped. "Regardless, I will head in and wake our delegates. Please wait here while I do so."

Eris crossed her arms and watched Jennifer walk inside, curious to see how this was done. Shepherds Brawls weren't very common, but everyone knew Lady Jennifer was in charge of getting all of them awake.

A moment of silence passed. Birds chirped serenely.

"Wake up you lazy bastards!"

Eris leapt into the air as the cacophonous ring of pots slamming together accompanied the unholy roar, wood splintering as the dragons woke with confused and pained cries. Chaos reigned for several minutes as the air heaved with groans, cries, and shouts. All the while the pots banged away.

Then it was silent, the very air holding its breath. Eris found herself very still, not sure what was about to happen.

Jennifer left the command center with a smile, the world allowed to breathe again. "They'll be out in a moment, I just had to be a bit more judicious in my methods. It took two whacks each to wake them."

"You… smacked them?" Eris asked, flabbergasted. "With… pots? You hit the Exalt and Queen with pots?"

Jennifer gave a dithering laugh. "It's actually in my duties believe it or not. When one of these brawls happens, it is my appointed duty to use any means necessary to wake them all up."

On cue, the Shepherds flooded out of the command center, all of them looking far too dignified for the sorry state they'd been in not moments before.

"Eris, good to see you." Chrom greeted as the head of the make-shift procession. "How's it feel to learn Lady Jennifer is the true head of the Alliance?"

Eris saluted, used to his casual demeanor. "About as surprising as the sun rising, Your Excellency."

"Never were one for candor, were you?" Sumia chuckled as the others filed past to go about their duties. "Regardless, keep Cordelia and Robin safe, alright? If you don't, I'm not going to be the one explaining what happened to the munchkins."

Eris grimaced but kept her salute as the royals went off to prepare.

"Eris, sorry to keep you waiting." Cordelia sighed as she walked up to the captain with Robin in tow. "No need for a sit-rep right now, give it as we go. Robin, you get yourself ready and meet us on the edge of town."

Robin pecked her cheek and turned back to the ruined command center, Severa stood in the doorway waving a pauldron. Once he was gone, Cordelia waved for Eris to lead. "I assume everyone's ready by now?"

"If they're worth being in the regiment, they better be." Eris answered, falling a half-step behind Cordelia out of habit. "Beyond that, your gear is right where you left it and Theresa's more than eager to fly. Once we hear the Exalt's grand speech, we'll be on our way."

Cordelia nodded and they swept through the town, soldiers gathering towards the margins to witness the delegates' departure. Cordelia paused before the Silverwings' tent, ducked in, and found the regiment at attention.

"At ease!" She called, the riders dropping to parade rest. "Mount up and make for the outskirts. Once the Thornshields join up, fall in line and await my command!"

The riders saluted and filed out of the tent, Cordelia groaned when they were gone.

"Still hungover, ma'am?" Eris asked with a straight face. "I assume Duchess Lissa or Duchess Maribelle will see to that before we leave?"

Cordelia grunted and made for her chest of equipment. "After they finish fixing theirs, yes. And assuming Maribelle doesn't drag Gaius off for a quickie."

"Apologies, Commander, but I don't recall asking about their sex lives." Eris deadpanned. "Do you require any assistance?"

Cordelia hissed as she bent over and opened the chest, only to pause in confusion. "Eris? My flight-dress feels damp, is there anything on it?"

Eris glanced at the garment and stared. "Um… yes, Commander. It appears someone has… dyed your flight-dress. Yellow."

Cordelia snarled as she help up the bright yellow flight-dress, the one she distinctly recalled being assured was red yesterday. "Remind me…"

"To kill Captain Morgan when we return."

-Morgan-

"Cynthia, I suddenly fear for my life."

Cynthia stared at her friend in disbelief. "…Want to run that by me again?"

"Mom's going to kill me." Morgan stated, calm as a clear lake. "I… may have launched that petty scheme upon her before learning the truth of our posts."

Cynthia's expression went flat. "You didn't… the flight dress, really, I thought that was a joke!"

Morgan held up her hands, guilty as charged. "Hey, Aunt Sully helped me do it. Problem is, I did the actual dye job. Sev and I wanted to slip Dad that seaweed at dinner, but that fell through."

"Thank heaven, can you imagine seeing him this morning if you did that?" Cynthia balked, Morgan's face betraying her thoughts. "I understand the petty revenge part, but come on! At least tell me you didn't dye the dress yellow."

Morgan's head dipped and she pressed her fingers together.

"Sweet Naga, really?!" Cynthia cried, making the other spectators turn to stare. Cynthia glared back until they turned away, her voice dropping to a whisper. "She is going to whip your ass, especially if you went with that ugly yellow that looked like vomit!"

Morgan drooped further, Theresa offering no comfort. "I know… that's why I'm hoping you'll hide me until she leaves."

"So you dropped the 'tag along' plan." Lucina muttered as she joined them, Severa beside her and hands entwined. "Before you ask, your sister talked a lot during our alone time."

Severa smacked her girlfriend. "How many times do I have to tell you to keep quiet about that? And of course, it's dropped now, Morgan would be tied to Theresa as a battering ram after what she did. I'd be used as a load-jockey for the whole journey if I showed up too, so we're not going."

Lucina smirked and squeezed her hand. "Then we get more time together. I'm coming with you to Roseanne, already got the ok from Khan Basilio."

Severa blushed at that, but Cynthia shushed them. "Quiet, the delegates are arriving. Morgan, go hide for now, I'll tell you when it's over."

Morgan dismounted and hid under Theresa, watching the ceremony through the legs of the crowd.

"Gods, I feel bad for her." Lucina muttered as Cordelia rode into view, her usual red uniform stained an ugly yellow. "Having to go on parade formation looking like that cannot be relaxing."

Severa snorted, a spark of vindication in her voice. "None of them look all that noble aside from Jennifer. What a great image."

Her words were quite true. Despite hurried attempts, the delegates were just disheveled enough for it to be noticeable, with Cordelia's color change grabbing the most attention. Beyond that, seeing Flavia with her hair down was a very strange sight.

"Soldiers of the Alliance, lend me your ears." Chrom called once everyone was in position. "Our mission today is of the utmost importance."

He waved towards the horizon. "We go to seek allies who share our goals and vision, to bring the threat of Walhart to an end and return to our peaceful homes! What say you to this undertaking?"

The soldiers roared in answer.

"While we are away, do not fear the Valmese or their ways!" Chrom shouted over the roars. "You have the great West Khan of Regna Ferox beside you, and the Shepherds of Ylisse! Meet the enemy with resolve in your hearts and fire in your eyes, for we fear no darkness!"

The roars redoubled into cheers of adulation.

"Forward, soldiers of the Alliance!" Chrom cried, Falchion held high in the rising light of day. "Forever forward to peace. For Ylisse, For Ferox!"

Blades slamming against shields and armor joined the cheers, the crowd whipped into a frenzy.

"Wow, Uncle Chrom's gotten a lot better at his speeches." Severa whispered hoarsely, her voice spent on cheers and shouts of agreement. "That was… almost inspiring."

Cynthia and Lucina didn't answer, swept up in the cheer as the delegates set off. Severa smiled and shook her head, watching her parents leave once more.

This time though, she controlled her anxiety and forced herself to relax.

It's alright, Sev, it's alright. They're so much stronger than they were in the future, and so are we. They've given you Roseanne as a base. They trust you, they trust Morg, and we'll be back together and comparing sheet music before you know it.

Assuming Mom doesn't render Morgan comatose.

Severa chuckled and looked over to Morgan. "Hey, Morg, they're… what?"

Severa froze as she peered at Morgan, the younger girl caught with her eyes wide and arms wrapped around a large wolf.

"Uh… I can explain."

"Please do." Severa deadpanned before looking down to find a wolf head sticking out of her shadow. "What the-?"

"Calm yourself, child" A soothing voice whispered into her mind. "We merely believed now was the time to introduce ourselves. We are guardians, here to watch over you until we are released, or you leave this plane."

Severa blinked several times, but the voice kept going. "Your father has tasked us with your safety, and we shall stand by the oath until we are not needed. We shall not appear unless called or needed, so please be at ease."

Severa was most certainly not at ease. Robin had gone and gotten freaking shadow wolves to keep an eye on them, even after that big spiel last night about how much he trusted them!

"We are not advisors." The voice soothed, Severa's anger lessened if not quelled by the smooth words. "We are merely guards. Think of us as no different than a shadow, only watching for threats. Also, we do not report to your father."

Severa doubted that greatly, but the wolves were gone a moment later, leaving her to glare at her own shadow.

"Sev?"

Severa took a breath and looked to Lucina. "I'm fine, just thinking on what's next. Let's go talk to Aunt Eve, she can give us an overview before we see Uncle Virion and Aunt Panne."

Lucina was dragged away before she could say anything, Morgan leaving her hiding space to stare after them.

"Something happen?" Cynthia asked, the crowd dispersing as the delegates vanished over the horizon. "Sev looked steamed again."

Morgan sighed and mounted Theresa. "I'll tell you later. For now, let's go meet up with Dalila, see what we'll be dealing with up north. We wanted to bring Noire and Yarne, right?"

Cynthia nodded and mounted Selene, her mind focused on Morgan's guarded gaze.

What now?

They didn't speak as they took to the air, a lone Shepherd from the crowd watching them go.

"I can only hope they're ready." Maribelle sighed; Gaius's charm was held tight in her hand. "I can only hope we're all ready."

She looked to the road and closed her eyes. "We've been tested now, and proven worthy. They will send us no more fools, and I have no doubt their spies and agents will seek to prevent these meetings outright."

Maribelle looked to the road once more, a glare in place.

The vision of crimson banners stretching across the horizon glared back at her, the weight of their task clear.

An endless army.

An unstoppable leader.

An impregnable fortress.

Maribelle sighed and turned back to the town.

"For peace."

Ch. End

Alright, so we've set off! The question now is, who do we follow first? All the delegations have their events occurring concurrently, so it doesn't really matter who we start with. I'm willing to listen to opinions.

Also, we'll be checking in on the base and kids every so often, they have battles of their own to fight after all.

Anyway, just want to briefly explain the units I've named here. They're like Regiments of Renown from the Total War series, each based off one of the advanced classes in Awakening.

Lawbringers: Generals

Feroxi Lions: Warriors

Royal Guard: Paladins

Night-Walkers: Assassins

Reavers: Berserkers.

Hell Divers: Wyvern Lords

Black Riders: Dark Knights

Silverwings: Falcon Knights

Thornshields: Heroes

Storm-Screamers: Griffon Riders

Duskwings: Dark Fliers

The Silver Tide: Great Knights

Chosen of Naga: Sages

Arch-Lights: War Clerics/Priests

Ladies of Freyja: Valkyries

Red-Eyes: Snipers

Blood of Sacae: Bow Knights

Jesters of Ylisstol: Tricksters

Dawn and Dusk: Swordmasters

The Ruinous: Sorcerers

These are the main units that will be named and referenced throughout the conflict, as they're split between the Ylissean and Valmese sides.

Also, I'm leaving it to y'all to decide which group we follow first now that the arc's kicked off. They all occur concurrently, so there's no one way it can be constructed. Let me know what you think! You'll have time since I want to work on my other neglected projects.

Anyway, review time!

Zero8000: Glad you enjoyed, hope you like this one too!

Warrior of six blades: We'll just have to see, won't we? It'll be fun, that I can promise! Or hope to promise, who knows right?

That's all I have! See y'all next time!