I've searched the internet for clues of what Maribelle refers to whenever she calls someone "troglodyte". The closest answers I found are either a term derived from ancient Greek, which basically translates into "caveman", or "Pan troglodytes", which is the Latin name for the common chimpanzee. Either way I look at it, my conclusion is that Maribelle uses that term as a way to tell her enemy that they're less sophisticated than her, or possibly some kind of evolutionist insult. Girl knows how to throw a burn on her enemies.
Now, onto some reviews:
Firem78910: Honestly, I'm not putting that much effort into the ID:s. The most I have planned is basically making gauntlets of enemies from BotW. Simplistic? Yep. But that's what I've decided. As for weapons, I've already mentioned this before: no guns. I want to generally avoid high-tech weaponry, which is where I place guns as a whole. The only exception to this rule would be if a magical equivalent is brought up. This brings me to the Red queen from DMC4. It's…a borderline case. Yes, the Red queen is a sword, but it has so many mechanical parts that it can also count as a machine. Jack could, in theory, trace one that's powered by mana, but that's as far as I would go with that idea. Also, tracing that sword when Miriel is nearby is almost guaranteed to have the Mage go crazy over it. Miriel in science mode can be…scary.
dcoon: I plan on doing every paralogue except number 3 (a strangled peace), 12 (disowned by time) and the spotpass chapters. The spotpass chapters are skipped because I have already planned the outcome for the characters you recruit there. As things are now, Priam will, sadly, have to sit this one out, since I haven't thought of a way where he can integrate into the story.
I'm placing paralogue 12 at a time that happens "off-screen". Jack will be busy being somewhere else when it happens.
I'm skipping paralogue 3 for the simple reason that I can't find any story relevance for this fic in that chapter. That, and I HATE it! Seriously, protecting those three Villagers from the Risen is the worst bonus objective ever! It'd be much easier if they stayed put in the forest where they start out and get some cover. But, no, they run out from the natural cover and straight out in the open where Pegasus Knights can OTK them!
You could probably tell from my rant how much I dislike it. So I'll just skip it.
Dragon of the Blazeing stars: Huh. KH itself being the driving force behind the keyblade's choice of wielder sounds very sensible. Nice thought. Also, no, Jack's main weapon won't be any keyblade. However, the Shepherds will get a resident keyblade wielder in the future, with their very own keyblade. As for who it is… That's a secret. :P
As for the zanpakutō rule, that one is Mimicry proof. Zanpakutō are manifestations of their wielder's soul. If Jack wants to Trace one, he needs to replicate a soul, not just mannerisms or traits, but the very core of a soul reaper's being. That's beyond the scope of Mimicry. And I also made this restriction because adding zanpakutō to the mix could make me go down a rabbit hole I prefer to stay out of! I can't state this enough, since this topic has popped up even after I've openly stated that zanpakutō won't be a thing in this fic.
Ruberforumfree: Honestly, the only excuse I have is that I haven't thought up on ways for Jack to use those skills that much yet. That changes in this chapter. And to be fair, he did apply some of those skills when fighting Lon'qu.
Anonymous reviewer, Sep 5th: I know, right! In fact, I'd say Red like Roses part 2 could potentially fit any of the children, but it fits Lucina especially well for two reasons.
1: Her birth is the only on that's canon.
2: Being Chrom's eldest child, or only child if you go that route, Lucina is also Chrom's heir. Chrom's untimely demise resulted in Lucina having to pick up the mantle early on when fighting Grima and the Risen. That mantle was a heavy burden to pick up, especially for a child.
I also watched the video you recommended. Oliver going to town on Lekain with a staff was just…beautiful. Simply magnificent.
A fan: I'm trying to keep things a bit low-tech in this fic, mostly because the other Shepherds seeing Jack trace futuristic stuff like that would lead to some conversations that I honestly don't want to write (yeah, I'm that lazy – kind of). And it would probably be too OP. Heck, some of the stuff I have planned for this story could already be considered OP in the right situations!
Obsessive reader: Why, thank you. I've put much consideration in what BGM:s to include for this fic. The best part? I won't use the same BGM twice in this story – ever!
warrior of six blades: Uh, wow… I see you've been busy catching up on this fic ever since you read the first chapter. Thanks for the positive response in every review.
Regarding Jack's description of the KH story: That depends on who you ask. If you're a fan who's kept track of the events of KH since the beginning, it'd be pretty easy to know how the story goes. For the uninitiated or newbies, on the other hand? There's a lot to take in since the games sometimes don't even come in the correct chronological order. Guess that's why there are entire Youtube videos explaining the KH timeline.
So, I heard you like Cordelia. Well, here she is (in the chapter, that is)!
Copyright disclaimer: I only own the plot of this fic. For a full copyright disclaimer, please read chapter 1.
Sometimes fleeing takes the most courage. – Phila
Chapter 7: Exalts die when they are killed! Treachery at every step!
The march back towards the capital is filled with mixed feelings. On one hand, everyone's happy that Maribelle is alive and well. On the other hand, the approaching war against Plegia weighs heavily on everyone's minds, Emmeryn's especially. The fact that Chrom and Lissa walk a lot closer to her than before meeting with Gangrel is not missed on any of us. Not that I blame her. Emmeryn's been trying to keep the peace for as long as she could. Having the Mad King shatter that fragile peace like glass must've been a heavy blow for her.
We've made good time on our return trip and now make camp for the night. With how antsy some of the Shepherds are, we're having double night watch to help the others sleep easier. I have the first shift together with Ricken.
I could, of course, keep watch all night long. Combining no need for sleep with Shadow clones would let me make a whole ring of sentries that could go 'til the break of dawn. I appreciate these double shifts, though. Night watch can get pretty lonely when you're on your own.
While sitting on a tree branch and Meditating, I notice Ricken petting some forest critters. That's when an idea occurs to me.
"Hey, Ricken. Do you think your animal friends can help us keep watch around the camp?"
The Mage looks up at my position. "Maybe. It's up to them, really. Let me check."
Seeing the little guy communicate with animals looks pretty weird. It's a lot of chittering and squeaking. Nevertheless, he seems to get through to the animals. Ricken soon looks back up to me smiling.
"The squirrels agree – on one condition."
I raise an eyebrow. "Oh? What?"
"They want to bond with you. Something about proving how great they are."
That…sounds interesting. I accept.
As our shift ends, we pass the night watch over to Sully and Vaike. This is normally when I would head straight back to my tent, but I follow Ricken to keep my end of the deal with the squirrels.
We soon reach a clearing some distance away from the campsite. Ricken looks around in the treetops before he gives a sharp whistle. A branch among the foliage rustles before a squirrel jumps down. What looks weird is that this squirrel has seven twigs strapped to its back with plied leaves.
"This is Base, the squirrel who suggested the bonding." Ricken tells me. Then he hands me a nut.
I look at the Mage with a raised eyebrow.
"Come on, give him the nut!"
I shrug and bend down to offer the nut to the squirrel. The little critter sniffs my hand a little before it picks up the nut and eats it. After finishing the treat, Base reaches a clenched paw forward.
"Uh… What am I supposed to do now?" I ask.
"Bump your fist against his paw." Ricken explains.
I'm bumping fists/paws with a squirrel who has seven twigs strapped to his back. This looks oddly familiar.
The squirrel raises its paw into the air.
"Wheee!"
A new skill has been created through a special action! You gained "Animal tongue!"
What the heck?!
"Yo! Bonding with you was the greatest move! I could feel through your fist that you have the groove!"
I understand what that squirrel is saying – and he talks by rapping!
"What in the world is happening?!" I shout as I throw my hands up in the air.
"You did it!" Ricken exclaims happily. "You managed to bond with him."
I turn to the Mage. "Wait, this is the bonding you talked about?"
Ricken nods. "Yep. Well, Base is a bit special, but in a good way. You'll get used to it eventually."
I turn back to the rapping squirrel, who's added dancing into the mix. This is just…weird.
"BAAASE!"
*Thump*
The three of us turn to where we heard the sound to find a squirrel with a seemingly permanent scowl etched on its face. Or at least, it looks like a scowl. In addition, this new squirrel has a lot more muscle mass than the average squirrel as well as a coat made of bark and leaves.
"Brutha'!" Base exclaims. "This dude's groove is real! We've sealed a great deal! He'll bond with our clan, no sweat. Of that-
"Iron paw!"
*Squueeaak!*
"You fool! What have I told you about leaving the canopies on your own?!"
I turn to Ricken with a vague hope to find an explanation.
"Oh, that's Ace, Base's brother. They butt heads often, though it's mostly Ace strong-arming Base because Base keeps disobeying the rules of their clan. Ace is the leader of the clan, so he's very strict with the rules."
The more I look at these two squirrels, the more it feels like I'm looking at a different series.
"Out of curiosity, does their clan have a name?"
"Yep. The pack hidden in the trees."
"We're heading back to the canopies. And this time, I'm putting you under watch!" Ace squeaks at his brother.
"Brutha', so cruel! You should ease up on the rule!"
"Shut up, Base!"
The big squirrel pulls his brother along by the grip on his head. They soon vanish among the treetops.
I give up. If someone were to throw around ninjutsu right now, the Naruto level would be over 9 000. Oh, wait. I can do Shadow clones and the Rasengan. Never mind!
Timeskip: morning
Due to continuous strenuous activity, STR increases by 2!
Due to prolonged exhausting activity, VIT increases by 2!
Due to plenty of quick maneuvering, DEX increases by 3!
Due to diligent studying, INT increases by 1!
You have leveled up! You have leveled up!
I get back from my ID training right as the sun pokes over the horizon. Fighting against those Bokoblins was overall productive. Surprisingly, the boss battle involved two Silver Bokoblins this time instead of one. It took a while to take them down, especially since one of them grabbed Erza's lightning spear. Liberal use of dual-wielding and Telekinesis allowed me to overwhelm the two monsters with superior numbers in weapons.
As I exit the tent, I see Stahl sitting in the middle of the camp, tending to a fire.
"Good morning, Stahl. Up early?" I greet the green Cavalier.
"Oh, good morning, Jack." Stahl greets back. "I'm just making a fire to make a snack."
"Snack?"
Stahl reaches beside him and pulls out a pair of rabbits.
"Caught them just as my shift ended." he states proudly.
Isn't there a proverb that advises against chasing two rabbits at the same time? Sounds like Stahl disregarded that and pulled it off anyway.
"Huh. Nicely done. Well, enjoy your meal. Just remember to show up at breakfast."
"Wouldn't miss it for the world!"
I get on my way and keep walking through the camp. I notice Sully walking out of her tent with a towel around her neck.
"Morning, Sully." I greet the female Shepherd.
"Mornin'." Sully greets back.
"What's up?"
"Just goin' for a morning dip. Helps gettin' my body going after a good night's sleep."
"Well, enjoy your soak."
We part ways, Sully heading for a nearby stream that we found before we made camp yesterday.
I soon reach my destination: a small training area.
"Humph! Yah!"
And just as I expected, Lon'qu's up and honing his skills.
I grab a training sword and walk to the temporary sparring ring.
"Good morning, Lon'qu." I greet the Myrmidon.
Lon'qu turns in my direction and nods back in greeting. He walks to the other side of the ring without a word.
"I see you are ready for morning practice." he says and gets in a stance. "Do not go easy just because I've already spent some time training."
"Wouldn't dream of it." I reply as I get into my own stance.
At an unspoken signal, we rush each other and meet in the middle of the ring.
"Guh…"
I rub my aching side where Lon'qu just gave me my latest bruise. I still have a hard time keeping up with him. Though I wouldn't say I don't stand a chance.
"Better." Lon'qu says while rubbing his right arm. I managed to score a hit there during our spar. It's not much, but I'm catching up the Myrmidon – slowly.
"Still need more training." I reply. "Well, thanks for a good spar. You up for breakfast?"
Lon'qu nods before leaving the sparring area with me.
"Hold the staff steady, Sumia. Good. Keep the form. Now, strike!"
"Hyah!"
*Thwack!*
"Excellent."
Lon'qu and I return to the camp to see Frederick instructing Sumia in lance wielding.
"Remember, the form used for mounted combat is very different from when you fight on foot. Make sure to master both forms." the Great Knight tells her as he parries staff blows left and right.
Sumia backs off and smiles. "I will. Thank you so much, Frederick."
The Great Knight smiles back before steeling himself. "Now, again!"
"Hyah!"
Seems like the Pegasus Knight is doing well.
Virion sits at a desk writing on a piece of paper. He looks up to the sky while tapping the top of his quill against his chin in contemplation before he nods with a smile and proceeding with the writing. Maribelle's seated by a conveniently placed stump and serving Ricken some tea. Judging by their smiles, I'd say they're having a good time together.
"AAAAHH!"
"Why meee?!"
Everyone's attention shifts to something happening near the edge of the camp. That's when we notice Vaike and Robin running for dear life – with Sully's horse hot on their heels. Guess the blond Fighter had the terrible idea of peeping on Sully during her morning dip. Remember, kids; peeping on bathing people is a bad idea. You could get an angry horse after you.
Breakfast turns out well enough. One of the great advantages of having Miriel on mess duty is that she follows the instructions to the letter, be it conducting an experiment or cooking according to a recipe. We hear that she had some help in cooking the breakfast, but I can't put my finger on who it was…
Why is there a tray with bowls of porridge floating among the seated Shepherds?
Oh, wait! She had help from Kellam!
Sully sends Vaike some dirty looks. Seems like she heard about the blond guy getting caught peeping by her horse. The Fighter tries to look innocent, not that it looks convincing with Robin sending glares his way as well.
The royal siblings eat their meals in silence, while seated at a separate table (that Fredrick cobbled together somewhere between preparing tea and planning meals for the day). The situation looks even tenser by the fact that both Phila and Frederick stand guard near them. Yeesh. Overkill much?
In fact, now that I listen carefully, the most noise at the table is Stahl tearing through his breakfast. And I think even that pace is somewhat subdued compared to when he typically eats a meal. The incoming war must weigh heavier on everyone's minds than I thought.
The silence continues as we pack up and continue our trip back to the capital. With nothing better to do, I start grinding some subtle skills.
Timeskip
It's been about a week since we returned to the capital. Right as we returned to the palace, everyone went on some kind of task. Frederick roped every Shepherd into joining in on his fanatical fitness hour. I've even noticed some recruits from the standing army of the halidom joining in, like it or not. Miriel spent much of her free time conducting her research. No one's managed to figure out what it is she's researching, though rumors about a living suit of armor in her room have sprouted here and there. Virion and Ricken were at the archery range for target practice. Sully took extra training sessions aside from Frederick's, to the point that we once saw her stumble back into the barracks exhausted (remember, this is Sully we're talking about here). Stahl's appetite increased after Sully dragged him into joining in on that extra training. Sumia split her free time between running in nearby forests to get out of her tripping, and riding practice together with Phila in order to get more used to fighting while riding a pegasus. Vaike kept harping on Chrom that they need to spar more. They often returned in the evenings with bruises all over their bodies. The silver lining in that was that Lissa and Maribelle got more practice at healing spells. Maribelle also got her horse L'Arachel transported to the barracks. Lon'qu trained even harder than usual. I've seen him beat on training dummies before, and I can tell that he's upped the pace recently. He also occasionally mumbled something about getting a technique down.
Kellam…seemed to be working hard as well. His training sessions can get a bit loud sometimes. As in, we occasionally heard some sounds that seemingly had no real cause other than the Knight being in full swing with training. Process of elimination, really.
Robin's had the hardest training regimen of all, by far. Not only did she split her training between magic and swordplay, in which she discussed the respective matters with Ricken and Chrom respectively, she also juggled all that while studying tactics. During one evening, she was missing from the table as supper was served (and not by Sully). Everyone was naturally concerned for the Tactician, so I went to go check on her. I eventually found her in her room, slumped over her desk and snoring peacefully over a book about different battlefield formations. Poor girl. Splitting your time between at least three different disciplines at the same time is tiring on its own. Trying to the extent that Robin does it means it was only a matter of time before she collapsed. Moving as quietly as I could, I picked up the Tactician and carried her to her bed where I tucked her in as she was, minus the boots. She was bound to be hungry when she'd wake up, so I made a quick trip to the palace kitchens to get some bread and other stuff that would taste fine even several hours later. As I left the plate with food on her nightstand, I got a good look on Robin's sleeping face for the first time. She looked so…peaceful. It was hard to believe that she's pushing herself so hard just to get ready for an imminent war.
I smiled and brushed away a lock of hair that fell over her face before I snuck out of her room and closed the door silently. It was only after the door closed that it hit me what I just did. Tuck her into bed, bring her food for when she wakes up. Heck, who admires the sleeping face of someone else and brushes a lock of hair out of her face? I mean, I guess what I did was sensible, but why in the world did I put so much care into doing it? It's not like I'm her mother, for Naga's sake!
Well, I decided not to dwell on that matter for too long. Instead, I used that moment as an inspiration to work even harder myself. The nights I've spent training inside UBW has allowed me to get at least a basic feel for every weapon I Traced in there. I'm a bit of a Jack of all trades (pun intended), but I'm also a master of none. With the war being so close, it's high time I started specializing myself and try to form a battle style of my own. Out of all weapon types I've trained myself in, I felt the most comfortable with swords and polearms. Actually, it would be cool if I could get my hands on a weapon that let me switch between both forms at any time, but I digress.
Next would be integrating other skills into that fighting style. Aside from increasing my overall battle performance with Reinforcement and Mind's eye, I needed to add my other active skills as well. Telekinesis was probably the easiest one. Since it's a skill that no one can see, I could use it for all kinds of effects in combat without anyone being the wiser. Redirect arrows? Piece of cake. Push back against enemy attacks? Already did that against Lon'qu. Manipulate my enemy's position while fighting? A bit tricky, but it should be doable with more practice. That would be one of the more useful applications. Push the enemy back when they attack, and pull them towards me when they retreat.
This brings me to the last skill that I had to get combat ready: Rasengan. Its damage output is crazy high, but I'd yet to feel confident enough to use it in battle. That had to change. One clone grinding that skill wouldn't do it anymore. I'd need at least ten.
I'm currently in my room grinding Meditation while pushing Mind's eye as far as I can, together with some clones. While my training's coming along fine, there's still something missing in making my own fighting style. I've had the skill Elemental mana manipulation on me even before I arrived in Ylisstol, but I've yet to apply it to anything. There's a lot of options in that skill, each with great potential. But if I want to use it, I think I need to gain access to an element first. And, going by my decision to specialize myself, I'd better stick to one element only. This begs the question: which element should I settle for? Considering I made the Rasengan skill for the purpose of making a stepping stone towards something grander, the answer seems pretty obvious. That being said, basing my decision on the Rasengan alone could potentially shut me out from other viable options. Hmm… What to do?
*Boom!*
What the heck?! What was that?
Quest alert:
Main quest: Foreseer
Castle Ylisstol is under attack, and the assailants only want two things: the exalt's life and the Fire Emblem! Protect the exalt, and drive those intruders out of the castle, pronto! This will be more than a simple protection mission, though. The enemy is led by a sinister figure, and he's set his eyes on Robin. There's more to this assassination than meets the eye.
Objectives: Defeat all mysterious assailants. Don't let Emmeryn die.
Rewards: Increased standing with Ylisse, 6 000 EXP, 6 000 gold
Bonus objective: Don't let "Marth" die.
Bonus rewards: ?, Increased standing with Ylisse, 1 000 EXP, 1 000 gold
Failure: Emmeryn's death sets off a chain of events that leads the world to its doom. In other words; don't let it happen! Capiche?
The moment I finish reading the quest alert, I activate Reinforcement and head outside as fast as I can. I see smoke rising from the west wing of the castle. Drat! I knew it was only a matter of time before Validar's attack, but I had hoped it would happen while I'm at the castle itself, not the barracks beside it! Throwing caution to the wind, I tense my Reinforced body and parkour my way to the nearest open window.
As I climb my way inside, I scan my surroundings with Mind's eye. Castle guards are running about wherever I see while trying to bring the maids and other staff to a safe place. You're kinda prioritizing wrong, guys! I notice a few other presences running around the halls, either dodging the guards or outright fighting them. It's a good thing the guards have such strict training regimens, 'cause those fights look brutal. Wait, there's one of those presences heading my way! I hide behind a corner where that person will run. Steady… Slow your breathing… Now!
Gaius Lvl 16
"Whoa! Stay your blade, Buttercup!"
I manage to stop my Bronze Sword a hair's breadth away from slicing Gaius's neck open.
Boy, am I glad I ran into this guy. His skills will be indispensable for the Shepherds in the future. Still, I need to put up a convincing act first.
I narrow my eyes at the Thief. "You don't look like you belong here. And who're you calling "Buttercup"?"
Gaius takes a step backwards while holding his hands up in a placating gesture. "Easy there. I don't want to harm you, honest."
"Then why in the world are you running around in the castle corridors dressed like that?" I ask while indicating Gauis's clothing. "For that matter, why shouldn't I consider you an intruder that I'd be better off throwing out of the castle?"
"'Cause Blue hired me."
I raise my eyebrow. "Who?"
"Royal blood, blue hair, swings his sword with the strength of an ox."
"So…" I reply tentatively. "You've met Chrom, huh? So where does that put you?"
Gaius sighs. "Alright, I admit I really shouldn't be here, but hear me out. I originally came here with some other people because I thought I'd steal some gold or other valuable stuff before hightailing it outta here. Just as we're about to begin, the guy who hired me tells us that we're supposed to kill the exalt. I just met up with Blue, I learn he's the exalt's brother, and I agreed to join your side. See, murder's not my cup of chocolate, and Blue had these really tasty sweets on him. By the way, I'm not sharing."
"Uh huh…" I reply with a deadpan look. "And what can you do to prove I can trust you?"
Gaius shifts the lollipop in his mouth (I think it's a lollipop, at least). "Tough customer, ain't ya? Though I'd ask the same if I were you, to be fair."
The Thief quickly draws a knife from within his cloak before he throws it past my head – and hits someone behind me with a clean headshot.
I noticed that one approaching me while I talked to Gaius and planned to take care of them myself, but it looks like the ginger head beat me to it. I settle for turning around and finally getting a good look at my would-be assailant.
Yiga foot soldier Lvl 17
A member of the Yiga clan, traitors to the royal family of Hyrule and loyal of an evil entity. They serve as assassins, hiding in more places than one could imagine and striking without mercy at anyone they consider a target or hindrance. The Yiga are capable of many dangerous techniques, such as teleporting above their unsuspecting victims for devastating sneak attacks. Letting your guard down against these assassins could very well be the last thing you do. Oh, and they LOVE bananas.
Wait a minute… How the heck did Validar manage to get in contact with a ninja clan from another world, let alone hire them for assassinating Emmeryn?!
More importantly, these guys mean trouble! If there's anyone who knows how to take a life, it's the Yiga. I gotta find the others fast and make sure we find a way to stop them before they reach Emmeryn's chamber!
"That good enough for ya, Buttercup?" Gaius asks me.
I nod slowly. "Yeah… Yeah, it is. My name is Jack, by the way."
The Thief shrugs in reply. "Yeah, whatever, Buttercup. Name's Gaius."
My eyebrow twitches at his casual dismissal before I shake my head. "Come on, we need to find the others. If there are more assassins like that one in the castle, the others are in trouble."
As we run through the corridors, Gaius glances at me. "Sounds like you know them."
I shake my head. "No, but I'm familiar with their ways. How did you end up with those guys if you don't like murder?"
Gaius shrugs. "A guy needs gold to get food. I sneak into places and help myself with what I can find for a living. Some shady guy said we'll raid the castle tonight and, well, castles are known to be loaded with valuable stuff, right?"
"In other words, you're a thief." I deadpan.
"I prefer the term "treasure hunter", thank you very much!" Gaius replies defensively. "Sure, I occasionally take stuff that's not mine to begin with, but I'd never rob someone who's already poor or anything."
"That doesn't change my opinion of you." I fire back.
Any further conversation stops as we run into another pair of Yiga foot soldiers.
BGM: Critical deep drive, Kingdom Hearts 2 music
I glance at Gaius. "Team up?"
The Thief nods. "Team up."
We draw our swords and engage the Yigas.
Both red-clad ninjas jump back while flipping their sickles into reverse grips and get in low stances. Gaius responds by getting into a low stance himself while I settle in my own stance and have Reinforcement at the ready while Mind's eye is pretty much on auto-pilot. Rule number one when fighting assassins: the only time you can relax is when you're absolutely sure they're dead and haven't boobytrapped the place.
Gaius makes the first move and dashes in with his sword in a similar reverse grip. One of the Yiga meets him head-on. Their weapons clash numerous times, but neither can get the advantage. Good thing Gaius is handy with a sword despite preferring no fighting at all.
The second Yiga rushes in to attack Gaius's exposed flank. Before the ninja can reach the Thief, I'm there to intercept him. The foot soldier bends backwards as he dodges my swing and keeps flipping back as I give chase. Alright, time to see if the strategy I cooked up back in my room works. I stretch my free hand towards the flick-flacking ninja and use Telekinesis. The moment I feel a connection, I pull back my arm and yank the ninja towards me. I get a surprised yelp for my efforts. Just as I get ready to stab the surprised assassin, however, he turns his forward motion into a somersault and brings down his sickle against me.
*Clang!*
I'm forced to shift my stab into a block in response. Drat! Thought I had him there! He's better than expected. The Yiga only pushes for a small window of time before breaking off. We circle each other a little before I take the initiative and rush in. The ninja makes a quick maneuver to the left and jumps against the wall to attack my side. I back off and use the extra distance to get a better swing in. Just as we're about to clash, the Yiga jumps above my swing and attacks from above. I jump to the side and quickly get on the defense as my enemy attacks me ruthlessly. As wild as the slashes are, they have one thing in common; they're all lethal blows.
I notice that Gaius fortunately keeps up with his enemy, but we're pressed for time. We need to settle this quickly and reunite with the others, not stall for time against our current adversaries!
I jump back from the barrage of sickle slashes. Just as the Yiga lunges for my throat, I hold my left arm up. As the sickle comes back down, I release a pulse of Telekinesis. The brief pulse slows the swinging arm down enough for me to catch it with ease. I use the opening to stab at the ninja, only for him to dodge at the last second. Before I can pull the arm back, he grabs me by the arm, effectively putting me in the same position as him. We try to get out of each other's grip, yet neither of us let go. Okay, if trying to shake off the grip won't work, I'll have to improvise.
*Crack!*
Like headbutting, for example. The ninja gets dazed by my sudden move, giving me the perfect opportunity to kick him into the wall.
"Switch!" I shout to Gaius before I run in his direction.
The Thief responds quickly, abandoning his fight against the other Yiga ninja and running towards where I came from. His opponent gives chase, only to get intercepted by me. Our weapons clash a few times before the ninja jumps back. He circles me slowly. I walk in the same direction to stop him from reversing our positions. He eventually stops and tries dashing in instead. I crouch into a low stance myself and get ready for when he gets close. As we're only a few paces apart, I use Telekinesis to lift him up by his feet. The sudden force sends the ninja flying slightly. I grab him out of the air and wind up for a throw.
"Coming your way, Gaius!" I shout to the Thief and throw my opponent.
Gaius responds perfectly and grabs his opponent by the arm before he gets the ninja in position and kicks him into towards his flying buddy. The two Yiga crash into each other. Gaius and I rush in to finish them off. Unfortunately, the ninjas regain their bearings quickly and each make a handsign before they vanish in twin puffs of red smoke. They reappear side by side further down the corridor, crouching and a bit dazed, but still capable of fighting.
The Yigas stand tall and wave their arms in a circular motion. Red runes appear in the air where their arms pass, forming a pair of circles of ancient Shiekah writing. The circles last for less than a second before they vanish once more in twin puffs of smoke.
"Get back!" I shout as I jump back a bit right as the smoke clouds disperse. Gaius heeds my warning and jumps back with me just as the Yigas crash down on where we stood half a second ago. Sorry, chumps, but I've fought enough of your buddies through Link's perspective to know just about every trick your clan pulls off when trying to kill the hero.
Gaius and I rush the ninjas and slash, but they pull their sickles out of the ground and jump away in the nick of time. One of the Yiga dash towards us with his sickle at the ready. I meet him with a slash of my own.
*Clang!*
Our weapons lock together. I have the advantage in strength, but I'm aware that won't matter unless I get a good hit in. The Yiga slips out from the blade lock and closes in for my neck. I duck under the swing and deliver a sweep kick, only to miss as the ninja jumps over my leg. I smirk as I keep spinning and put my weight on my free hand and leg. My low position allows me to direct a snap kick at my airborne adversary, sending him into the wall.
Before the Yiga can get up, I dash in and ram my sword into his heart.
*Shink!*
The ninja shudders before it goes still. That's one down. Now to help Gai-
*Whoosh!*
I fall on my butt as I dodge a blade made of air by a hair's breadth. I look at where the attack came from and pale at seeing my attacker; a Yiga Blademaster. Ah cr-p!
"You just killed one of my clan brothers. I'll take yours in return." The big ninja says in a cold voice. Double cr-p! Yiga prioritize their clan very high.
The Blademaster rolls his neck once before settling in a stance. I get up as fast as I can and rip my Bronze Sword out of the fallen foot soldier. The dead ninja slumps forward before he falls in an unceremonious heap on the floor. Uh… Maybe doing that in front of his beefy buddy was a bad idea.
My thought gets confirmed as the Blademaster fires blade after blade made of air at me. I dodge the best I can, but those things fly fast! I'm forced to back away while keeping an eye on both the Blademaster and those air blades. Just as I think I'm at a safe distance to think of a counter strategy, the big guy vanishes in a puff of red smoke. I go with my instincts and duck-
*Shing!*
-right as the Blademaster appears behind me and slashes where my neck was a moment ago. A massive slash mark appears across the nearby wall along with some destroyed property, telling me how sharp that slash was. That painting looked expensive! I turn around and go for a stab, only to get blocked by my enemy. We push against each other, neither gaining any ground. Alright, Telekinesis it is.
I slowly manage to overpower the Yiga. He obviously doesn't approve and shifts his position in a way that makes our swords slide out of the blade lock. Before I can retaliate, the Yiga teleports again and appears a fair bit of distance from me. He slaps his hand on the ground, producing a wave of hissing, displaced earth that races towards me. That looks bad!
*Boom!*
Son of a- This guy knows earth-style ninjutsu?! And of the explosive variant to boot! I got away in time, but I realize I'm in a pickle here. That Yiga has better long-range options than I have and enough speed to keep me from Tracing any weapons. And he's using those advantages to pin me down.
The Yiga fires a few more air blades at me. I manage to dodge, but my dodging gives him the opening to teleport into close-range with his palm glowing red.
*Boom!*
A quick redirection of the palm with Telekinesis saved me from getting blasted by the explosive technique. I roll backwards through the dust and debris from the destroyed wall and find myself in the castle kitchen. Fighting that Blademaster head-on might be beyond my ability, so I run and hide behind some benches while the dust is still up.
The Yiga swipes the dust cloud away before walking into the kitchen. He slowly looks around, trying to find me.
Okay, calm down. He doesn't know where I am, so I can still get the jump on him. I could probably nail him with a good hit, but I need a distraction first.
A little probing with Mind's eye helps me find something that could work. Thank Naga I ended up in the kitchen, of all places. Here's to hoping the Yiga have the same fatal weakness that they have in BoTW.
The big Yiga ninja stalks the kitchen hall slowly while looking left and right. He stops when he notices something on the ground; a cluster of fresh bananas.
"Oh, bananas!" he exclaims happily.
Just as he picks up the tasty fruit, I rush in with mana swirling in my palm.
"Rasengan!"
*Sshr-BOOM!*
The Yiga ninja flies straight into the wall from the impact of my technique. He still has HP left, so I draw my sword and plunge it through his heart.
"Word of advice: you're only allowed to eat dessert after the main course."
As the big ninja goes still, I take note of the sword that slipped out of his lifeless fingers. I gently pick it up and give it a good look.
You got a Windcleaver!
Windcleaver, Sword, Base damage: 70, Rare
A sword wielded by elite members of the Yiga clan. The blade is not only razor sharp, but also enchanted with wind magic. This gives the blade its glowing wavy pattern along the side. Channeling mana through this weapon allows the wielder to launch blades of highly compressed air as they swing. The greater the skill of the wielder, the sharper the blade.
Available skill when wielded: Windblade
Yeah, this weapon is definitely what I need. After I wipe my Bronze Sword clean of blood on the Yiga's clothes and put the weapon away in my bag, I untie the Windcleaver's sheath from his hip. I then pick up the single-edged sword and replace it in its sheath before I sling the whole thing across my back. I try drawing the blade a few times and nod in satisfaction at my draw speed. You, my new weapon, are going to fit right in.
I run through the castle halls after making sure the coast is clear. Fighting that Yiga Blademaster separated me from Gaius. I hope he and the other Shepherds are okay.
I notice something at the edge of Mind's eye's range; "Marth" is fighting against another one of those Blademasters. I also notice that her mask is missing, meaning it must've been sliced in half.
AN: Did any of you guys notice that it's only NOW that I address "Marth" by her gender? Yep, that was deliberate – and insanely hard to write while making the text flow well. Totally worth it, though!
She's holding up well against her opponent, but they're in a stalemate. Better help her. I run into the corridor where they're fighting to see the two sword wielders break apart from a blade lock and getting ready to clash again. I reach into my bag to retrieve a little something that I brought from the kitchen for situations like these.
"Hey, big guy! Catch!" I shout as I throw the object.
The Yiga ninja looks in my direction – and notices a cluster of bananas flying through the air.
"Oh, bana- Guk!"
The big assassin is permanently silenced as "Marth" capitalizes on the opening and stabs him in the chest. The Yiga Blademaster goes still for a moment before he slumps down on the floor.
A quick application of Telekinesis allows me to catch the bananas before they hit the floor. These fruits aren't just tasty, they're prime Yiga bait too.
"Marth" sighs as she wipes the blood from Parallel Falchion. "You have my gratitude."
"You're welcome." I reply. "I figured you're on our side when I noticed you fighting the big guy, so I did what allies always do; help each other."
"Marth" smiles at my reply. "I'm happy to hear that." Then her face gets serious. "Listen, this assassin did not come here alone. There is a large group of them in the castle, and they are all after the exalt's life. We must stop them at all costs."
"Yeah, I noticed." I indicate the Windcleaver at my back. "I've already fought some of those guys, one of which was like the big guy on the floor. I decided to take his sword after the battle."
"You defeated one of those big ones on your own?"
I show "Marth" the banana cluster. "Believe it or not, these assassins are completely obsessed with bananas. Throw one into their line of sight, and they forget everything else happening around them. Kinda like how you killed this one here." I rip one from the cluster and hand it to her. "Keep one, just in case more of them show up here."
"But, what about you?" the blue-haired sword wielder asks as she accepts the banana.
"I need to look for my friends. I'm worried about them."
"Marth" nods and points towards a corridor. "I believe some of them are over there."
"Thanks!" I shout over my shoulder as I dash in that direction. Eh, she'll be fine.
I'm forced to stop in my tracks as I notice the telltale spell circles of when Yigas are about to appear from their teleportation techniques. Cr-p! There's two of them armed with bows! Gotta move fast!
"One for the bards!" *Thunk, thunk!*
Before either ninja can even nock an arrow on their bows, they both fall face first on the floor with an arrow each sticking out of the back of their heads. As I look down the corridor, I notice Virion smiling while lowering a- …When did he get his hands on a Duplex Bow?
"Virion? Boy, am I glad to see you alive and well."
The Archer nods back. "I could say the same to you, Jack. Since we could not find you when the other Shepherds reported in, dear Robin almost feared the worst and had us search the castle halls for you while fighting off the intruders."
I wince at hearing the news. Hope the Tactician's not too upset about me running into the castle on my own. "Uh… Good to hear, I guess. By the way, where'd you get that bow? I don't remember you using one like that."
Virion lifts up the bow with a serene smile.
"Ah, yes. During my search through the castle halls, I ran into one of those intruders garbed in red. He wielded this very bow. Imagine my surprise when two arrows were fired from it even though I clearly saw that he only nocked one. I was naturally intrigued. So, after felling my foe with a masterful shot, I decided to inspect his bow. While a tad vicious in design for my tastes, the craftsmanship is exquisite. And what's more, every time I let loose an arrow from it, it mysteriously turns into two."
I nod. "Huh. Sounds useful."
"Indeed it does. With some practice, this bow may turn into a marvelous boon for the archest of archers. And my arrows should last twice as long while I use it."
I'll say. The Duplex Bow can do some serious damage when used correctly in BotW. Considering Virion's skill level, he's not far off.
"I'm going to find Robin, then, at least to put her mind at ease." I tell the Archer. "Can you handle things here?"
Virion nods. "Holding this corridor should be an easy task…"
A Yiga pops up behind Virion and tries to sneak attack the Archer. Just as the ninja is about to strike, however, he seemingly flies into the wall with enough force to dent the stone.
"… After all, sir Kellam is here to assist me, along with the lovely Miriel. Though it is mostly her who keeps track of our stalwart knight."
I look at where the Yiga lies motionless on the ground. I managed to out-ninja a ninja by playing on his weakness, but Kellam does it without even trying. For crying out loud, the guy should stick out like a tree on an open savanna! How can I not see him?! How can almost no one see him?!
Bah, I'll leave that for another time! I've got a Tactician to report to.
"All right. Just, be careful." With that, I continue my trip down the castle corridors, throwing a quick greeting to Miriel and Kellam while I'm at it.
I eventually find Robin and Chrom fighting off a small group of Yiga ninja. While they're fully capable of handling that on their own with their teamwork, they also have assistance from…a giant rabbit? Huh. Looks like Panne joined the fray.
"Robin!" I shout while I launch a wind blade from my new sword and slice up a Yiga foot soldier.
Robin turns in the direction of my attack and spots me.
"Jack!" she exclaims relieved. "Thank goodness you're alive. I was worried when you didn't show up among the others."
"I'll explain what happened later." I tell the Tactician as I stand back-to-back with her. "Let's handle these assassins first."
"My sentiments exactly." Robin replies. Hey, is that a new tome? Elthunder, by the looks of it.
Warning! Warning! Boss-level enemy detected!
Validar's here already? He must've noticed how long the Yiga are taking in their attempts to kill Emmeryn.
BGM ends
Some of the ninja in the corridor step aside. I find myself shivering as the air seems to turn sinister with dark magic. That's when he rounds the corner.
Validar Lvl 30 Class: Sorcerer
A sinister man with a dark complexion and even darker ambitions. Calculating and ruthless, Validar will use anything and everything for the sake of fulfilling his goals. This single-minded devotion lends him greater resilience than his thin physique would suggest, making him more dangerous to face the further he is cornered. Candidate for worst father in Fire Emblem history.
Titles:
Grimleal high priest (+ 10 % MP)
Fell blood descendant (+ 10 % damage for dark element magic, - 10 % damage for light element magic)
HP: 4 000 / 4 000
MP: 3 245 / 3 245 (2 950*1.1)
STR: 16
VIT: 20
DEX: 15
INT: 58
WIS: 34
LUCK: 10
CHAR: 25
Items:
Elfire (equipped)
The Sorcerer directs his gaze towards Robin. A malicious grin spreads across his lips.
"Well, well… Ha ha ha! Oh, I know you… Submit to me, and perhaps I might honor you with the truth!"
I move in front of Robin and point my Windcleaver at Validar.
"I don't know what you're playing at, you old creep, and frankly, I don't care. Get out of this castle and take your red buddies with you. Or else!"
The Sorcerer's grin is quickly replaced with a scowl.
"Step aside, boy, or you will pay for interfering with my designs!"
BGM: Dark impetus, Kingdom Hearts: Birth by sleep music
I narrow my eyes and get in a battle stance. "Make me."
"Fine, then!" Validar replies and literally opens fire. We're forced to scatter to dodge the blazing spell. As I regain my bearings, I notice Validar right in front of me with another Elfire spell at the ready. Cr-p! How did he move so fast?!
*Fwoom!*
"Yikes! Hot, hot, hot!"
I barely managed to roll out of the way. Man, that was way too close for comfort!
Validar laughs cruelly as he keeps launching spells. Rgh! I can't keep dodging forever! That's when I notice a Yiga foot soldier trying to sneak up on me. You're just what I need!
Just as the ninja closes in, I use Telekinesis to pull him off-balance. I grab his arm at that moment and put him between me and Validar. The Yiga actually screams in pain as he's burnt to a crisp.
The opening allows me to rush in. Taste enchanted steel!
*Clang!*
Drat! Another Yiga intercepted my blow. Validar launches another spell at the both of us while keeping up his sinister laughter. It's only thanks to Reinforcement that I have enough physical strength to break off in time to dodge the spell. The Yiga, however, takes the full brunt.
My word… He sacrificed his own underling just to get a hit in? Observe wasn't kidding when it said Validar will use anything to achieve his goals.
Can't stay on that! Okay, so he'll use the Yiga as sacrificial pawns if it means he can line up a shot. That means I have to separate him from the ninjas so he won't have any meat shields. Well, Chrom and the others should handle the Yigas just fine. Time for some Joestar-style tactics; run away!
"Catch me if you can!"
"There is no escape!" Validar shouts as he chases me through the castle corridors, all while launching more Elfire spells.
After rounding a few corners, I stop and turn around to face the Sorcerer.
"So, are you ready to accept your fate?" the Sorcerer asks grinning.
I grin back. "In your dreams, Pops. I had to get you away from your underlings first. Now you don't have anyone shielding you." I raise my sword at him. "It's you and me."
Validar's grin turns even darker. "Very well. I will enjoy turning you to ashes, boy."
Validar takes the initiative and casts fire spells in a wider spread this time. I respond by jumping away and running close to the walls. Any time a spell closes in, I jump up and off the wall for some quick side-to-side maneuvering. I manage to find a gap between the fireballs and rush in with my sword.
*Whoosh!*
What the- Where'd he go?!
Behind me?!
"Ha ha ha ha ha!" *Fwoom!*
You've got to be kidding me! He can teleport?! No wonder he moved so fast!
So he can both cast dangerous magic and teleport… I need to distract him somehow.
Validar suddenly teleports in close to me. Wait, his right hand is humming and glowing purple!
Roll!
I look up from my roll and notice he accidently hit some flowers instead of me. The frightening part is that all flowers in the vase wilted on the spot. If that's what Nosferatu does to its victims, I never want to be on the receiving end of it.
"You move well, boy, I'll give you that much. But, is running away all you can do?" the Sorcerer taunts me.
I scowl as I get back in a stance. Looks like I can't rely on my eyes against an enemy like this. So I close them and let Mind's eye take over.
Validar tries his teleporting trick again and appears behind me again. I'm prepared, however, and slash quickly as I pivot. Mind's eye is so detailed, I can see the look of surprise as he backs off and touches his chest where I slashed him. It's only a flesh wound, but I've finally managed to score a hit!
And my moment of triumph ends instantly as Validar scowls and concentrates a dangerous amount of mana in his right hand. That can't be good!
Dark magic concentrated in orbs the size of basketballs fly at me at a rapid pace. I'm more than capable of dodging the spheres, but I have trouble closing in. I respond with a few windblades, but Validar reacts fast enough to teleport out of the way before they can connect.
Wait… That might work.
Right as I spot a gap between the orbs, I get into the gap and fire two windblades in quick succession. Validar teleports again, but I'm ready for the teleport. I notice a slight spark that tells me where he's about to appear and dash forward with my Windcleaver at the ready. Right as the Sorcerer reappears, I'm already in range and swinging my sword.
*Shing!*
The slash mark I placed on him earlier gets a companion as another bloodied line appears across his torso. This time, the wound is deeper.
"Enough!" the Sorcerer snarls and puts his teleporting into overdrive. He's popping up all over the place, hardly giving me any time to react. Cr-p! Gotta focus…
Left!
*Fwoom!*
Managed to dodge that Elfire spell.
*Fwoom!*
The next one flew just a hair's breadth from me. Right as I duck to the side, however, Validar teleports in right in front of me with his right palm glowing red.
Well, s-it.
*Boom!*
Ow, ow, ow! What's with me getting blasted through walls tonight? Repairing castle walls is costly, for crying out loud!
I tumble end over end from the blast against the wall, only to stop as I hit the opposite wall and end up seated against it.
Validar walks through the dust cloud at a casual pace with an orb of fire magic floating above his hand.
"As much as I enjoy this game of cat and mouse, I tire of you." the Sorcerer says disinterested. "I have important business to attend to in this place tonight, and you are interfering. But I am willing to overlook this slight and spare your life, should you obey me."
I look up from my position against the wall. "Really? You'd spare me?"
"Yes." Validar replies grinning. "You need only lead me to the exalt, and I will pretend you never crossed me at all."
BGM interrupted
My face grows more angular as the colors of the world seemingly shift.
"I refuse." I answer.
Validar looks at me in shock. "What?"
"One of the things I like to do is to say "No" to an enemy who thinks he has the advantage."
Validar's face turns calm – deathly calm. "Very well. Then die."
Worth it.
The blazing spell hits its mark, only for it to vanish with a pop and a puff of smoke.
BGM continues
"What in-" *Shing!* "Guah!"
Ha! I finally managed to score a clean blow across his back. Judging from his scream, he definitely felt that one.
Oh, did I mention I made a Shadow clone right as I rolled to a stop against the wall and had it take my place while I hid right beside the new hole in the wall before Validar walked through the dust cloud? 'Cause that's totally what I did!
As Validar stumbles from the back slash, he's completely open as a Thunder spell slams into his side.
"Jack!" I hear Robin shout as I see her approach us down the corridor.
"Perfect timing, Robin!" I grin in her direction. "Let's take this guy down. If he falls, the assassins should retreat soon afterwards."
"Then let's do it." the Tactician replies as she reaches me.
Validar shakes off the residual charges from Robin's Thunder spell and regards the both of us. The hall falls eerily silent as we each wait for some unspoken signal to begin.
A twitch from Robin's right hand shatters the momentary lull. The Tactician begins with a Thunder spell cast straight ahead. I dash right behind the sparking orb, Windcleaver at the ready.
Validar bats the Thunder spell aside. As he sees me right behind it, he vanishes. Where'd he- Robin!
"Watch out! He can move around in an instant!" I shout at her.
The Sorcerer reappears behind Robin with his palm glowing red.
"Get down!" I shout and send a windblade her way. Robin heeds my warning, making Validar stand in the line of fire instead. The Sorcerer teleports again. Where this time?
…
Above me!
*Fwoom!*
I jump back just in time as an Elfire spell crashes down where I stood a moment ago. Validar vanishes from my line of sight before I can home in on him.
The Sorcerer reappears further down the corridor. This time, the fire spell in his hand is much bigger than any spell he's cast during the battle. He's done playing around.
I respond by channeling lots of mana though my Windcleaver. As the Sorcerer launches his spell, I bring down my sword hard and launch a massive windblade. The blade of compressed air struggles a bit before it finally slices the fire spell in two and still goes strong towards Validar. He teleports again. I can finally tell where he's going and turn back to Robin.
"To your left!"
Robin's been preparing on her own. While Validar and I sent our long-range attacks against each other, the Tactician charged mana into her hand in preparation for a powerful lightning spell. Just as Validar reappears where I knew he would, Robin lets the spell fly.
"Elthunder!"
Caught off-guard at the accurate attack, Validar is forced to block it with his right hand. The difference in magical prowess becomes evident as the Sorcerer manages to get a good grasp on the spell and slowly gains ground against Robin.
That's when I rush in with the Windcleaver in my right hand and bring it down with a shout.
Validar responds by finally dropping his tome and coating his left hand in dark magic. The enchanted limb catches my blade with no signs of bleeding. Huh. Neat application of magic. The Sorcerer now visibly strains as he tries to hold back attacks coming from two directions at once. That's when my left hand comes into his view, along with the spiraling sphere of mana held within.
It was at that moment that Validar knew; he f-cked up.
"Rasengan!"
*Shrr-BOOM!*
BGM ends
The force of my technique sends the Sorcerer flying into the other end of the corridor at break-neck speed. The impact is powerful enough to leave spiderweb cracks.
"No…" Validar groans as he falls out of the wall. "This is…all wrong… How could…you have known the plan…"
Just as he collapses, two Yiga foot soldiers teleport to his sides and pick him up before they vanish without a trace.
You defeated Validar! You gain 2 000 EXP! You gain 2 000 gold!
Due to continuous strenuous activity, STR increases by 1!
Due to prolonged exhausting activity, VIT increases by 3!
Due to plenty of quick maneuvering, DEX increases by 4!
Due to carefully studying your enemy's movements and finding a weakness, INT goes up by 2!
Quest alert:
Main quest: Foreseer
It was a difficult battle, but you managed to protect the exalt from the assassins and drive the intruders from the castle. But with your knowledge, you're well aware this isn't the last you've seen of Validar. What's even more concerning is the fact that he had Yigas by his side. How in the world this those Hyrulean ninjas make it here?
On a side note, turns out "Marth" was a woman all along – but you already knew that!
Objectives: Defeat all mysterious assailants. Don't let Emmeryn die.
All objectives cleared!
Rewards: Your standing with Ylisse has improved! You gain 6 000 EXP! You gain 6 000 gold!
Bonus objective: Don't let "Marth" die.
Bonus objective cleared!
Bonus rewards: ?, Your standing with Ylisse has improved! You gain 1 000 EXP! You gain 1 000 gold!
You have leveled up!
I slump back against the nearest wall.
"I think it's over." I huff.
Robin listens closely for any sounds of battle. Hearing none, she decides to follow my lead and slumps down right beside me.
"Yeah…"
I look at the Tactician with a smile. "You really came through for me there. Had you not shown up, I don't think I would've defeated him."
Robin smiles back. "Well, it's just like you said back when we were just recruited in the Shepherds."
I raise an eyebrow.
"We're a team. We stand together in battle and help each other." Robin elaborates.
I allow a small chuckle to escape my lips. "Wow. Never expected my own lesson to be thrown back at me. Well played, Robin. Well played."
Huh… I haven't thought about those particular words for a long time, even if I try to put them into practice. Did those words mean that much to her?
"By the way, what was that earlier? The thing you used to defeat the leader of the assassins?" the Tactician asks curiously.
I look at the ceiling in contemplation. "Remember when I explained how my mana is at its easiest to channel when I imagine a shape?"
At Robin nodding, I continue. "Well, there was a point where I got curious about which shape that I can make with my mana is the most complex, so I tried to experiment a little. Turns out, the most complex shape I could come make is actually the simplest."
Robin raises an eyebrow at my answer. "That doesn't sound like it makes a lot of sense."
I shake my head with a fond smile. "That's what I thought too, until I managed to figure out why." I spin up a Rasengan in my right hand. "Take a look at this. What can you tell me about my mana, Robin?"
Robin looks at the sphere for a moment. "It looks like a completely still sphere on the outside, but there's mana inside that's constantly spinning."
I nod smiling. "Correct. Therein lies the complexity. Try counting the number of ways my mana is spinning."
Robin frowns as she starts counting. "Four. No, wait. Eight. No, twenty. Ugh, I can't count them all."
"That's the point." I reply. "This sphere is actually made of hundreds of tiny strands of mana, each one of them rotating around a focal point and independently of each other. It's almost like how a ball of yarn is actually a very long string. Each strand of mana holds a tiny amount of force. If all of them unleash that force at once… Well, you've already seen what this technique can do. What's more, the spinning motion allows for this sphere to tear through even solid rock without problem." The sphere dissipates in my hand. "I call it: the Rasengan."
Robin looks at me in shock. "Really?! No wonder it packs so much power." Her face then scrunches up in thought. "Jack, why didn't you use this technique earlier? It could have helped immensely in the battles we have fought in."
"Honestly, I didn't feel that it was ready to be used in a fight. Heck, this was originally an experiment I did partially for fun. It was only after I discovered how powerful the Rasengan is that I started practicing with it, and that was somewhere after we arrived in Ylisstol for the first time. Between Frederick's inhumane training exercises and helping out the Shepherds, I've had a lot on my plate. Practicing this technique simply had to wait."
Robin nods as she processes my words. Then she looks at me…hopefully?
"Say… Could you…teach me how to perform that technique? The Rasen-whatever-you-called-it?"
I mull the question over in my head. It might be a good idea. Robin has already shown aptitude in shaping mana outside of her body by performing the Mana soles skill. Sure, Rasengan is many times more complicated than that, but she's demonstrated good control of her mana. Heck, if Naruto could do it, what's to say she can't? No offense to Naruto (he's awesome, hands down), but Robin has him beat in terms of intelligence. She'll probably figure a lot of the details out. And if she gets stuck, I'll be there for her.
I nod. "It's worth a try. I know how the Rasengan works both in theory and practice. Now I only need to figure out the best way of teaching you."
Robin smiles. "Thank you, Jack. I won't let you down."
I smile back. "I already look forward to teaching you. This might be fun."
Your relationship with Robin has improved!
I get back up from my seated position.
"Well, as great as relaxing right after a hectic battle is, I think we should report back to Chrom." I stretch out my hand to the Tactician. "What do you say?"
Robin accepts my hand with a smile.
As we return, we see Chrom embracing Emmeryn with a relieved smile.
"Thank the gods you're safe!"
"It is you I have to thank, Chrom." the exalt replies.
Phila bows with a look of shame on her face. "I beg your forgiveness, milord! I failed in my duty – they should have never made it into the castle in the first place."
"Peace, Phila." Chrom reassures the Falcon Knight. "You couldn't have known what was coming. Only Marth could-"
Emmeryn tilts her head to the side curiously. "…Marth?"
"Yes, I would speak more with… Um…"
Chrom looks around for the sword wielder, only to come up short.
"Robin? Where's Marth?"
The Tactician follows the prince's lead, only to receive the same result. "Hmm… An excellent question. She was here a moment ago."
Chrom scowls. "… Not again!" He dashes off in search of "Marth". Well, hope they'll have a fruitful conversation.
In the meantime, Emmeryn approaches Panne.
"Brave taguel, there are not words to express my gratitude."
"So you know our true name?" Panne responds. Judging by the tense muscles, she's ready to fight at a moment's notice. Yeah, good luck earning her trust if you're a human…
"Sorry, what's a taguel?" Robin asks.
"I am a taguel." Panne replies. "The… The last taguel. We are shape-shifters." She narrows her eyes. "Most of your kind called us "beast" or "coney" in the midst of their hunt. I only helped you because my warren owes Ylisse a debt. Do not think us friends, you and I!"
"I don't understand…"
"Yes, it's precious little your kind seem to understand." Panne grits her teeth. "It was man-spawn like you that invaded our warren and slaughtered my people."
Emmeryn recoils in shock. "What?! Is this true? Who would do such a thing?"
"Ha! Do not act so shocked. You are all the same." Panne snarls. "Right down to your base desire to ruin and destroy all you touch – even each other."
"…There is truth to your words, perhaps." Emmeryn muses. "I'm told that, in taguel society, everyone is treated as an equal. Mankind could have learned much from your warren. The words may come too late and mean too little, but I am deeply sorry." Her features turn sad. "We have stolen your friends and family and made the world a lesser place."
"Your Grace! You had no fault in this!" Phila interjects.
"You claim to be blameless, and yet you would apologize?" the taguel snarls. I notice her hackles rising. Better get ready for action, just in case. "Pah! Your words are but wind."
"I know…" Emmeryn admits. "But they are all I have."
Panne's features remain aggressive for a short moment longer before she calms down. "…You seem sincere, man-spawn. You feel my pain as your own. …I've never felt that before." The taguel opens her arms as if to show herself to the world. "Look at me. …See what I am. I will never trust mankind." Then her features soften into a smile. "But you… Perhaps you truly are not like the others."
Phew. Looks like I can relax.
Emmeryn answers in kind with a smile of her own. "All I ask is a chance to earn your trust."
Chrom returns shortly after Panne retired for the night. Surprisingly, or maybe not that surprisingly, the taguel decides to sleep outside, away from the rest of us. Not that I blame her. Sleeping among the kind who slaughtered her whole family is an idea that would've appalled me too. Hopefully the Shepherds can help her find a new home, maybe even among us.
Right as I return to the barracks and head for my room myself, Chrom enters and has all the Shepherds gathered.
"Shepherds, we have urgent orders. We're to escort Emmeryn to the eastern palace before returning to Ferox and have Kahn Flavia rally her troops. We set out in the morning."
I raise an eyebrow at the sudden message. "Is this about the sudden attack tonight?"
The prince nods. "I can't have Emm stay here and in harm's way while we head for Ferox. At the very least, she'll be safe there."
We all agree upon hearing the orders and start preparing for marching. No one seems to mind that we'll get less sleep tonight.
I'm about to ascend the stairs to the floor where my room is when I'm approached by Frederick.
"Jack, I wish to discuss something with you." the Great Knight tells me.
I nod in response. "Sounds important. So, what is it?"
"I heard from Robin that you used some strange ability when fighting the leader of the assassins tonight."
I spin up a Rasengan in my hand. "Oh, you mean this?"
Frederick looks at the spinning mana sphere before nodding. "That matches her description. Anyway, what I wish to discuss was the agreement we had before setting out for Regna Ferox."
Oh, yeah. I agreed to let Frederick watch me to decide whether I'm trustworthy in his eyes.
"You have displayed several strange abilities since we talked then, and none of them are skills that I have heard of before. Nonetheless, all you have done in this span of time has aided the royal family and Ylisse as a whole."
I raise an eyebrow. "Sooo…what's your point?"
The Great Knight smiles. "Strange as your abilities may seem, you have proven yourself a trustworthy ally in my eyes. I hereby consider you a Shepherd, through and through."
I smile back at hearing his decision. "Thanks, Frederick. Hearing that from you means a lot." I stretch out my hand for a shake. "Here's to hoping that we'll work well together in the future."
Fredrick accepts the handshake. "The feeling is mutual."
Your relationship with Fredrick has advanced! Your relationship with Frederick is now "Trusted"!
As I return to my room, I make a clone for a special task this night, alongside the bed clone. Better get some extra Rasengan training done tonight, as well as some practice to get used to my new Windcleaver.
Timeskip
Everyone was up and ready to go at sunrise, though Lissa looked rather sleepy when she and her siblings joined us outside the castle. It was only during the gathering that the other Shepherds took note of my new sword. Lon'qu in particular looked interested when he heard the news. Guess he's getting competitive again.
Something else happened during the night. I received the memories from the special clone I made after we finished fighting Validar and the Yiga ninjas.
Clone's memories
Lucina walked the streets of the capital towards parts unknown. As she neared the edge of the capital, she turned around and threw one last glance towards the castle.
"Pst! Hey, you." A voice spoke up from the bushes. Lucina looked towards the foliage to notice a squirrel walk out from them. The disguised sword wielder blinked at the little critter.
"Did that squirrel just talk, or am I just hearing things?" she mused out loud.
"Nope, you heard right." the small critter answered, much to Lucina's shock.
"Wha- How in the world is this possible?"
"If you want to know, follow me." The squirrel looked around a bit before returning his attention to his conversation partner. "Can't exactly talk with you here. It'd be troublesome if we drew a crowd, and believe me, a talking squirrel will draw a crowd."
Lucina contemplated it for a moment before she nodded. "All right. Lead the way."
The squirrel led her into a forest a few minutes from the capital. It stopped when it reached a clearing before looking around.
The critter nodded in satisfaction. "This should be good enough."
It then turned towards Lucina. "Well, I have quite a few things to tell you, so you might want to settle down somewhere comfortable."
Lucina shook her head. "I'm fine. Just tell me what it is you want."
The squirrel scratched its head. "Well, first off, I'm not a real squirrel."
Lucina looked at the animal in shock. "You're not?"
The animal deadpanned. "Squirrels don't speak Human. That's common sense, Lucina."
Lucina narrowed her eyes while slowly reaching for Parallel Falchion. "What are you, then? And how did you learn who I am?"
"That's the second thing." the squirrel answered before vanishing in a puff of smoke. It soon revealed the form of Jack. "I'm actually a copy of the Boss that he made by shaping his mana into the shape of a body. Oh, and I can transform, too. As for how I learned your real name, well, Boss has his ways."
Lucina relaxed before smiling at my clone. "I should have known it was you. You always had a way to accomplish the strangest feats, Master Jack."
That threw my clone for a loop. "Hold on! "Master"?"
Lucina looked a bit pensive before answering. "Yes. Since you already know my true name, I assume you also know that I am actually from the future."
My clone nodded. "Yep. That's what allowed us to know about those assassins before it was too late for the exalt. Thanks for the heads up, by the way."
Lucina nodded in agreement. "You're welcome. However, what I did not mention was that I learned to fight from two persons. The first was my father. The second was you."
"Me? Or rather, Boss? What did he teach you?"
"He taught me ways to move while fighting that I never knew was possible. I assume you know what I'm talking about, since you already saw me fight during the tournament in Regna Ferox."
"Wait, Boss taught you that? He didn't even know those moves were possible before then."
"He will in the future, though he only demonstrated the basics. I managed to figure out the rest after more training on my own."
My clone nodded as he processed the information. "Huh. Boss'll have a real headscratcher when he finds out about this. Well, on to the next point. On the night when we first met you, you warned us about a horrible calamity. Care to elaborate on that one?
Lucina nods. "I'm not entirely sure about the details myself, but I know that the exalt was originally killed tonight by those very assassins. Her death would set off a chain of events that will eventually unleash a great evil and bring ruin to the whole world. The reason why I came here in the first place was to prevent that from happening.
My clone scratched his head. "That sounds good and all, but why would you leave right after the fight? I think you could help out a lot more if you stayed with us."
"Perhaps, but I am only here to prevent anything directly related to the advent of the calamity. I cannot afford the risk of altering the course of history too much."
My clone looked at the princess with a deadpan expression. "Yeah, no. I don't buy it. You'd still be better off by staying with us."
"What? Why?"
"Think about it. There are more people who want Emmeryn dead than just those assassins. Heck, as far as I know, they acted independently of Gangrel, and he's dead set on killing Emmeryn too."
Lucina bit her bottom lip. "What would you have me do, then?"
My clone shrugged. "Well, if you don't want to help us directly, we should at least keep in touch."
"How?"
My clone faced a tree and whistled. Shortly afterwards, a squirrel – a real one – appeared. My clone pulled a satchel from his bag and opened it to pick up a nut from within. Then he gave the nut to the squirrel.
"Alright, Itachi. Make sure to remember the woman here. We'll exchange messages between each other in the future, so make sure your clan keeps an eye on both of us."
My clone then gave the satchel to Lucina. The princess raised an eyebrow while accepting it.
"Master, you talk to squirrels?"
"Yeah, I had a hard time wrapping my head around that too at first, but they're surprisingly helpful. If you want to tell me something, just write a message on something small and whistle to call a squirrel to you. And make sure you have some nuts prepared. That's the payment they want before offering help. In fact, you should give one to Itachi here right now."
The princess looked at the squirrel in disbelief before she nodded and offered him a nut. Itachi sniffed her hand a little before he accepted the nut.
"Well, that will be all. See you around, Itachi."
The squirrel nodded before he vanished among the treetops.
"Well, like I said, Lucina, there will most likely be more attempts on Emmeryn's life in the future. Send me a message if you catch wind of something interesting."
Lucina nodded with a smile. "I will. Thank you, Master."
My clone gave a mock salute. "Well, I'm off. Good luck on your mission."
*Poof!*
Sooo… Future-me apparently trained Lucina in the art of movement tech? That's…not something that I saw coming. More importantly, was she the only student I took under my wing? If the answer is "no", I think I'll have a lot of explaining to do in the future in case their parents get upset. Future-me, you may sound awesome, but curse you for putting this burden on me! Not cool!
Our march led us to a mountain range known as Breakneck pass. We started climbing somewhere close to noon. That was roughly an hour ago.
Due to marching for a long period of time, VIT increases by 1!
"Ugh, my poor feet. I've got blisters the size of eggs!" Lissa complains.
"Oh, it's not so bad, Lissa." Chrom replies from the front of our group. "Just a healthy little stroll! How are you holding up, Robin?"
The Tactician huffs and wipes the sweat from her brow. "My legs feel like pudding… Your endurance astounds me, Chrom."
Chrom smiles at seeing her struggle. "Hah! Should I carry you?"
Faster than the eye can blink, Lissa's at his side. "You can carry me!" Goodness, what's with this girl and her inconsistent physical prowess? "…No, seriously. I would really be okay with you carrying me."
"Hmm…"
Ah, yes. Then there's this old guy; the hierarch.
…This guy… THIS! GUY!
He's the only ylissean on my top ten list of people I want to punch in the face, and that's the child friendly variant! By Naga, I want this guy exposed for the treasonous jerk he is! Preferably before the plegians arrive.
"Is something troubling you, Hierarch?" Frederick asks politely. "You keep glancing up at the peaks."
The old man glances briefly at the Great Knight before resuming his peak watching. "Hmm? Oh, I'm just a b-bit nervous, I'm afraid. Gh-ghastly times, these!"
"Chrom, who is that?" Robin asks curiously.
"The hierarch? He's been a friend of House Ylisse for many years." the prince explains. "He guided Emmeryn during the early years of her rule. Why do you ask?"
Well, if the guy plans to abandon said friendship, I may as well make some fun out of it while I have the chance. I walk up behind the old man and sling my arm over his shoulders, making him tense.
"Why, these are ghastly times indeed, esteemed Elder!" I say in a louder-than-necessary voice and a massive grin. "In fact, it would be most terrible if a squad of Plegian Wyvern Riders swooped down from out of the blue and pinned us against the mountainside while their allies trapped us in a pincer strike, all because someone sold out our position to the enemy! Yes, we would be fighting for our lives with our backs literally against the mountainous wall and surrounded by enemies. Simply DREADFUL, wouldn't you say?"
The old man swallows nervously upon hearing my words. He struggles out from underneath me and backs away shaking. "Y-yes, dreadful, indeed. And…t-that's quite the imagination you have there, young man."
I scratch my nose while trying to look aloof. "Oh, so that's what ylisseans call it? Where I come from, we call it "foreboding feeling"."
I manage to pick up a shudder from the hierarch as he addresses Chrom.
"M-milord, I was not aware you brought a court jester with you. And with, ah, such a m-morbid sense of humor at that."
The prince sighs exasperatedly. "My apologies, Hierarch. Jack's…an odd one. But I can assure you, he is reliable in battle." Then he turns to me. "Jack, please stop harassing the hierarch! Such morbid thoughts are bad for his health."
I give Chrom an I-don't-give-a-s-it expression. "Ah. My bad."
At that moment, Mind's eye picks up on what I was expecting: Plegian soldiers running in our direction. And Wyvern Riders either cresting the peaks or flying in from below.
"Grah ha hah! Time to die, princey!" a Barbarian shouts confidently while brandishing his axe.
"Called it!" I shout cheerily.
"Gods d-mn it! Not now, Jack!" Chrom shouts. "How did they even know we were here?" The prince draws Falchion and gets in a battle stance. "Everyone! Prepare for battle!"
Everyone thankfully responds quickly and get in formation. Frederick, Stahl and Sully bring up the front. Chrom, Robin, Vaike, Lon'qu and me are right behind them. Miriel, Virion and Ricken provide cover fire. Lissa and Maribelle provide medical aid if someone gets injured. Panne, Gaius and Kellam take the rear guard. And Sumia is right above our heads, ready to provide support from the skies. In the middle of our formation, Phila takes up guard by Emmeryn's side, while also keeping an eye on the hierarch. This is the formation Robin came up with on the off-chance we would get attacked during our march.
Just as we get ready for the incoming battle, we hear Phila shout to the hierarch. Mind's eye lets me see the old guy running between the rest of us and straight towards the battlefield. Right as he passes me, I grab his shoulder and stop him cold.
"Whoa, there! And where do you think you're going, esteemed Elder?"
"Let go of me!" the hierarch shouts while struggling in my grip. "Do you not know who I am?!"
"You're an old man running straight towards enemy lines." I reply in a deadpan voice. "That either makes you suicidal…" My grip on his shoulder tightens as I narrow my eyes. "…or a traitor!"
The hierarch starts to sweat before he points a hand against my face. "Hah!"
*Flash!*
"Gah!"
My eyes! Son of a- The old fart blinded me with light magic!
I blink as my vision gradually returns. By the time it's decent, the hierarch is already right in front of the plegians.
"Hold, sir!" the old man shouts to what appears to be their leader. "I am the man King Gangrel told you about! Did you not receive orders to take me into your protection?"
What follows is basically the plegians mocking the old guy for betraying his own ruler and ending with him being brutally cut down by one of the Barbarians in the front.
The leader spares the dead man an uncaring glance before he directs his gaze towards Chrom.
"Right! Now for the main event." he says with a cocky grin. "By moon's end, they'll be erecting statues of me in the capital! Ho there! Ylisseans! Give me the Fire Emblem and your wench of a ruler, and spare yourselves a gory end!"
Chrom grits his teeth. "Phila, take Emmeryn to the rear of the column. We'll fend off these blackguards!"
Quest alert:
Main quest: Incursion
While trying to relocate the exalt for safety reasons, you're ambushed by plegians in the middle of the mountains! Since everything was supposed to happen in secrecy, you obviously had a traitor in your midst. You can sort that out after putting the plegians down, however. And watch your back. Reinforcements are on their way – for both sides.
Objectives: Defeat all plegians.
Rewards: Increased standing with Ylisse, 7 000 EXP, 7 000 gold
Bonus objective: ?
Bonus rewards: ?, 500 EXP, 500 gold
Failure: Gangrel gets his hands on the Fire Emblem and has Emmeryn executed at the first possible moment. Oh, and Vasto finally gets laid after becoming a war hero in Plegia (not that anyone cares).
Nothing more needs to be said as both sides charge each other.
BGM: Meta Knight's revenge, Super Smash Bros. Brawl music (Originally from the Kirby series)
*Boom!*
Frederick opens hostilities with a merciless charge, leaving the Plegian ranks open for the rest of us to get up close and personal for some mayhem. My Windcleaver is already drawn and swinging as I slash at any plegian in range. I'm forced to constantly stay on my toes, as the enemy quickly regroups and try to box us in. I notice Stahl having trouble fending off a couple of Soldiers while a Myrmidon tries to sneak up on him. We can't have that! I charge in with mana spiraling in my hand.
"Rasengan!" *Shrr-BOOM!*
The sword wielder is sent flying and crashes into the mountainside with enough force to leave a human shaped dent in the bedrock. Yeah, he's dead.
The plegians that saw me send their buddy into the mountainside approach me with much more caution now. That gives me the opening to run up to Stahl and help him get some breathing room by cutting down one of the Soldiers.
"How are you holding up?" I ask as we double team the other Soldier.
"Good enough." the Cavalier replies as we finish off the plegian with a synchronized cross slash.
I quickly jump up behind Stahl on his horse. "Mind if I hitch a ride?"
Stahl smirks in return. "Hang on!"
As we ride through the plegians, I launch wind blades every which way to get some pressure off of Stahl's back.
*Screech!*
I look up into the sky to see Wyvern Riders descending on us. I learned something important last time I fought plegians; I HATE fighting Wyvern Riders!
Okay, so I'm basing this opinion after fighting one particular Wyvern Rider, but that guy and his wyvern were jerks! Maybe I can change my opinion after I'm done smacking these guys around.
I tense my legs before I jump off Stahl's horse. That brings me close to the height of the approaching Wyvern Riders.
"Eat windblades, suckers!"
I slash my Windcleaver furiously, sending several windblades towards the flying plegians. One of them reacts too slowly and takes the full brunt of my attack. Wyvern and rider fall to the ground with bleeding slash marks covering their bodies.
The other one, however, dove to the side and got away unscathed. He circles me as I reach the apex of my jump and begin falling down. At that moment, the wyvern screeches as it charges towards me, the rider raising his axe with a bloodthirsty look in his eyes.
I'm not about to become a sitting duck just because I'm free falling! I charge a Rasengan in my free hand. Just as the plegian closes in, I launch another windblade against the wyvern's wing. The wyvern dives to the side and dodges the windblade while keeping the charge. That's what I want, however. Just as the rider is about to bring down his axe, I thrust my left hand forward.
"Rasengan!" *Boom!*
Unleashing the spiraling sphere into the air like this normally does very little, but with the Wyvern Rider so close, I still manage to clip him with some of the rotational force while getting some precious distance from him. The backwards thrust allows me to flip backwards in mid-air, put my feet against the mountainside and slide down to the ground to safety.
The Wyvern Rider quickly recovers from the surprise attack and resumes his diving attack against me. I make a mad dash through the frontlines towards my allies. Gotta time this right. Where is he?
There! I see Ricken fending off an Archer. The little guy's having trouble keeping up with the unnervingly accurate arrows. I ready my Windcleaver as I run up behind the plegian Archer.
"Ricken! Switch!"
I deliver a fatal backslash across the Archer's back and then continue running towards Ricken. The Mage looks behind me. Catching on to my plan, he charges mana for a powerful wind spell.
Just as I'm a few paces from Ricken, I shout.
"Now!"
"Take this!"
I get down in a slide right as Ricken lets the Elwind spell fly. The Wyvern Rider was so focused on me that he completely missed the Mage fire wind magic at him from pretty much point-blank range.
*Fshoom!*
As the Wyvern Rider flies off his mount and down the mountainside, I get back up and high-five Ricken.
"We have got to do that again sometime!" I shout grinning.
"Yeah!" the Mage shouts back with a matching grin.
We face the incoming plegians again and get ready to fight – only to get some unexpected help.
"Clear a path!"
Vaike comes in axe swinging, cutting down a Myrmidon in a surprisingly sneaky maneuver. Before the other plegians can react to the Fighter's entrance, I'm already at his side.
"Need any help?" I ask.
Vaike grins back. "Don't need it. Watch and learn!"
Holy cr-p, Vaike's on a roll! He tears through the plegians like they're amateurs! Except there's a massive flaw in all that.
"Wait, you can't fight them all on your own!" I shout as I run after him, slashing around me before the plegians can close the path that Vaike's hewn out with his axe. By the time I catch up, Vaike takes a double-handed grab on his axe.
"That's enough back talk!"
The Fighter jumps into the air before he brings his axe down with a war cry.
*Boom!*
Plegians are sent flying in all directions from the violent impact. Vaike totally got that move from Chrom.
As the Fighter gets back up from his landing, he smirks proudly. Then he shoulders his axe – except it's gone.
"Vaike? Where's your axe?" I ask alarmed.
The Fighter flexes his fingers, only to grab air.
"Oh, come on! I just had it in my hand!" Vaike shouts indignantly.
I duck a Barbarian's axe swing and retaliate as I facepalm.
"For crying out loud, Vaike! How do you keep doing this?!"
"It's not my fault, I swear!" Vaike answers while he gets a Soldier in a headlock and punches the poor guy repeatedly in the face with his free hand. "I know I had the axe in my hand when I swung. Just as I get back up, the blasted thing is gone!"
"Behind you!" I shout as I kick the Barbarian from earlier away from me.
Vaike looks behind to see a Dark Mage charging up a fire spell with an evil grin. Just as he's about to launch it, he's tackled to the ground by a big brown blur.
"No! Stop! Augh!" the plegain shouts before going still.
Said blur turns out to be Panne.
"I suppose you tried." the taguel muses as she gets off the now mangled Dark Mage. Daaaaa-n, she's savage!
A Myrmidon tries to attack her side, only for Stahl to ride in and block the blow.
"Made it!"
Taguel and Cavalier quickly team up and make quick work of the sword wielding plegian.
"Well done." Panne comments after the Myrmidon falls.
"Thanks!" Stahl replies.
Huh. Maybe Panne's fitting in better with the rest of us than I thought.
Oh yeah, I still need to take care of that Barbarian from earlier. He's charging me with his Steel Axe raised high and bellowing a war cry. Just because I'm facing away from him doesn't mean I can't see him, though. I flip my Windcleaver in a reverse grip and sidestep the swing at the last moment before I stab backwards. I love Mind's eye.
*Shink!*
The Barbarian gasps as the blade slides into his stomach. I smirk before I pull the Windcleaver out, turn around and slash him from shoulder to hip.
"Not good enough." I mutter as my enemy dies.
Wait a second. He won't need that axe anymore. I grin as I pick up the fallen weapon and turn to Vaike.
"Vaike, catch!"
The Fighter sees the axe flying through the air and grins. He throws the dazed Soldier to the ground and catches the axe before he brings it down on the plegian.
*Shink!*
"Class dismissed!" the Fighter declares confidently.
I shake my head in exasperation. Really, Vaike?
We're slowly gaining ground on the plegians. Things are looking up.
"Prince Chrom! Captain Phila! Beware! Enemy reinforcements to the rear! They'll be upon us soon!"
Huh? Who's- Hey, it's Cordelia! Looking good – except she looks wounded. And tired. How long has she been riding in order to catch up to us?
"Is that… Gods, Cordelia?!" Phila shouts in surprise.
Robin turns in the direction of the red-headed Pegasus Knight. "Cordelia?"
"She's one of my knights. Young yet, but quite gifted." Phila replies. "But she was stationed on the border… Why-" Phila pales upon realizing what happened. "Oh, gods! Could it mean…?"
We're about to regroup with our newly arrived ally when an alert pops up in my field of vision.
Warning! Warning! Boss-level enemy detected!
BGM ends
I turn back to the Plegian lines to see a particularly strong-looking Wyvern Rider approach.
Vasto Lvl 25 Class: Wyvern Rider
Oh yeah, this guy. Didn't the quest alert mention something about this guy finally getting laid if we lose? Weird…
"I'll splatter you across the canyon floor!" the Plegian boss yells as he brings down his axe. I grab hold of Vaike and apply some Telekinesis on top of Reinforcement to get the both of us out of harm's way.
"Get back and help the others handle the enemy's reinforcements. I've got this one." I tell the nearby Shepherds.
"You sure you can take him, Jack?" Vaike asks, suddenly being all serious.
I nod. "Trust me. I've handled tougher foes than this one. Besides, we don't know how great the reinforcements are. Chrom and the others could need all the help they can get."
The others look at me skeptically before they nod and head back to where Cordelia's met up with the rest of our buddies. Now it's just me and Vasto.
"So…" I drawl. "You're the one who ordered the hierarch killed?"
Vasto smirks. "I may have ordered my men to kill some swine. What of it? Here to avenge your compatriot?"
I shake my head. "No. Rather, I'd like to thank you." At Vasto's raised eyebrow, I continue. "See, I figured pretty quickly that it was the old fart who sold out our location. Had he not been killed before the battle, we would've hunted him down and executed him for high treason. You just spared us the trouble of finding him and even killed him for us. So, thanks." I shrug. "The only thing I could complain about is that we won't be able to make an example out of him by executing him in public after this whole mess is over, but beggars can't be choosers."
Vasto chuckles upon hearing my explanation. "Hah! I like your style, boy! Had things been different, we might've gotten along, you and I." The plegain brandishes his Steel Axe with a bloodthirsty grin. "Too bad we're on opposite sides in this war. That means you have to die."
I smirk back as I raise my Windcleaver. "Funny. I was thinking about saying the same thing to you."
Vasto scowls. "You think you can kill me? I'll put you in your place, pup."
BGM: Die, RWBY OST
Vasto's wyvern screeches before diving at me. I jump back as Vasto strikes down and then rush in for a horizontal swing, only to miss as the wyvern ascends to the air quickly. The wyvern spins in mid-air with its tail stretched out. I duck underneath with a grin. No way am I falling for that move again! I jump from my low position and deliver a rising slash that has Vasto maneuver his wyvern quickly to the right. Before I reach the ground again, I launch a windblade from point-blank range. Vasto's wyvern gives a mighty flap and speeds off to the left.
"Get back here!" I shout as I concentrate mana in my Windcleaver and launch windblades at an increasingly rapid pace against the Plegian Wyvern Rider.
Said Wyvern Rider flies along the mountainside and dodges the windblades, making them hit the mountain instead. Then Vasto takes a sharp turn for a new attack run on me. As they close in, I unleash another barrage of windblades.
"Do a barrel roll!" Vasto shouts.
The wyvern obeys and spins out of the way of my projectiles before resuming its dive.
"What the-" *Smack!*
Ow! Freakin' wyvern slammed right into me! Right as I recover, I'm quickly forced to guard as Vasto comes in for a merciless axe swing. Good thing I can stack Telekinesis on top of Reinforcement.
That's when I notice the wyvern open its maw and see a fire breath building down the throat.
"Roast him!" Vasto shouts.
No, you're not! I break off from the weapon lock and send a kick straight into the wyvern's jaw. The blow stuns the flying mount and stops the fire breath abruptly. With the opening given, I jump over the wyvern and bring down my Windcleaver on Vasto.
*Clang!*
Our weapons lock again, but not for long. I only swung with my right hand to leave my left free to form a Rasengan. Right as I'm about to bring it down, Vasto manages to make his wyvern fly backwards, making me thrust the spiraling sphere into the ground instead.
The wyvern swoops back in with a tail swing. I jump over it before clashing with Vasto again. I kick off the wyvern's head and launch a few windblades as I land. Vasto quickly maneuvers the wyvern to the side before coming in for another axe swing. I'm ready this time and answer with full Reinforcement as I bring down the Windcleaver hard.
Sparks fly as our weapons clash, but not for long. I'm quickly forced to break off from the clash as the wyvern starts to snap at me, probably to get revenge for that kick earlier.
Now I have to keep up with an irate wyvern right alongside its axe happy master. I'm forced on the defensive as I alternate between dodging snapping jaws and blocking axe swings. I gotta think of something!
I manage to find an opening to break off. That lets me run back in, but just as Vasto tries to slice me in two with his axe, I slide along the ground, putting me underneath the wyvern. While I'm out of sight, I make a Shadow clone that continues the slide behind the Plegian boss while I stop in place. Vasto naturally takes the bait and cuts down my clone, only for it to go up in smoke. Before he realizes he's been duped, I manage to land a clean slash across his back.
*Shing!* "Augh!"
The wyvern retaliates with a fast tail swipe, knocking me back and giving its master some breathing room after the sneak attack.
I need to end this now! As I get back up, I spin another Rasengan in my left hand. Vasto eyes the mana sphere momentarily before smirking.
"Heh. I saw you use that strange technique against my men earlier. You have to get close in order to use it properly, don't ya? You'll never reach me from here!"
I smirk back. "Then I guess I have to improvise." I rear back my arm and prepare Telekinesis for my next move.
Then I throw my Rasengan like a baseball. "Catch!"
*Boom!*
Vasto's caught off-guard as the Rasengan flies into his chest. The explosion blows him off his wyvern. As he falls to the ground, I rush in and land a flying kick right in his chest, sending him tumbling into the mountainside.
I approach Vasto as he looks up at me weakly.
"You doves think…killing me will change anything?" Vasto asks smirking. "Heh… Even now, my brothers storm across your precious border… Go on, dear exalted coward! Run! Flee while they slaughter your subjects! Save yourself… Let their faith in you…bleed away…with the rest…"
"Tell that to someone who cares." I reply impassively.
*Shing!*
Vasto's head rolls off his shoulders after a clean cut.
I flick the blood off my Windcleaver, twirl it once and sheath it behind my back with a click.
BGM ends
You killed Vasto! You gain 1 000 EXP! You gain 1 000 gold!
Due to continuous strenuous activity, STR increases by 3!
Due to prolonged exhausting activity, VIT increases by 2!
Due to plenty of quick maneuvering, DEX increases by 2!
A new skill has been created due to a special action! You gained "Rasengan fastball"!
I return to the others and note that they're done with their part too. Well, glad that's over. And I finally got back at the Wyvern Riders, even though they were two different ones.
"…They're gone." Chrom notes relieved.
"Your Grace! My prince! Run! As far and fast as you can!" Cordelia implores the royal siblings. "More plegians are coming, not a half day's march behind you!"
"Cordelia, what are you doing here?" Phila asks concerned. "…Tell me the border remains secure."
Cordelia averts her eyes with a pained look. "That I could, milady! But it would be false… Gangrel himself led his might against us! The end was upon us when my knight-sisters begged me fly and warn the exalt…"
Cordelia falls down on her knees as tears stream down her eyes, with no signs of stopping anytime soon. "I should have stayed… I should have stayed! Ah, gods, I can still hear the screams…"
Phila places a comforting hand on the crying Pegasus Knight. "Peace, Cordelia. You did your duty. The sisters rightly prized your youth. You've many years yet to keep their legacy alive."
"But I abandoned them!" Cordelia shouts with a cracking voice. "I'm weak… Their legacy deserves better."
Phila steels herself. "Sometimes fleeing takes the most courage. They knew that. Now pull yourself together. Let the faith they showed in you give you strength."
Cordelia looks up to her captain imploringly. "Captain Phila, I… How can I go on like this? They were my…my family…" The dam finally bursts. "Gods… Oh, gods…"
I can't just leave her sobbing like this with no support! I walk up to her and crouch down before embracing her gently.
"You're not alone…" I say in (hopefully) my most comforting voice. Being the only physical anchor available, Cordelia clings to me as her tears flow freely and her pained cries echo across the mountains. Hearing her cry like this makes a tear slide down my own face. I can't even imagine the agony she's feeling right now.
Chrom grits his teeth and slams his fist against the mountainside. "Damn those monsters!"
"I must return to the capital." Emmeryn declares resolutely.
Phila looks at her in shock. "Your Grace, I cannot advise-"
"I should never have left." Emmeryn continues unimpeded. "If it's discovered I'm away when this news comes to light, the people could panic. Riot. More ylisseans could needlessly die."
The exalt turns to Chrom. "Here, Chrom. I entrust this to you."
Emmeryn reaches into her robe and pulls out a golden object that looks like a shield. Is that what I think it is?
Fire Emblem, Accessory, Divine
The royal treasure of Ylisse and a sacred artifact that has been passed down through generations in the exalted bloodline. When the five sacred gemstones are mounted in its openings, the bearer can perform the Awakening ritual in order to unlock Falchion's true power once more. Bear in mind, however, that anyone attempting this puts their life at risk. Furthermore, only one who can wield Falchion may attempt the Awakening. Anyone else will be reduced to ashes in the sacred flames of Naga.
Current gemstones: Argent.
"The Fire Emblem?" Chrom asks surprised.
"Take it to Ferox – to safety." Emmeryn commands.
Chrom's eyes widen at the implications. "And leave you? No, Emm."
Emmeryn shakes her head. "No part of House Ylisse matters more than the Fire Emblem. It possesses tremendous power. But too much blood has been shed over it already. I hope it finds a better guardian in you than it did me."
"Emm, come on." Chrom pleads. "You can't… Don't talk like that! You sound like you're ready to give up…"
"I am not giving up, Chrom. I am only giving what I can."
"Emm, please! This is madness!"
"Sis, wait!" Lissa shouts. "Let me go with you!"
Emmeryn turns to Lissa. "Stay with Chrom, Lissa. I command it." The tone in her voice leaves no room for argument.
The Cleric clenches her hands around her staff as a tear slides down her cheek. "This isn't fair! It's not fair! I know our people need you, but we need you, too!"
Emmeryn smiles and pulls Lissa into a comforting embrace. "Dry your tears, love. This is not good-bye."
At this moment, Phila returns with her pegasus in tow. "Your Grace, the pegasus knights will accompany you to Ylisstol."
Emmeryn nods. "Very well, Phila. Thank you."
"I will keep the prince and princess safe, Your Grace. You have my word." Frederick declares.
The exalt turns to the Great Knight. "I know you will, Frederick. Thank you."
Frederick steels himself and slams a fist against his armored chest. "It is my honor."
And lastly, Emmeryn turns to me. "Jack."
I look up from my attempts to comfort Cordelia.
"Please help Frederick in protecting Chrom and Lissa. They mean more to me than I could ever express with words."
Despite her reassurances that it's not good-bye, the tone in her voice feels like it's carrying the underlying message of "…should anything happen to me…"
As much as I want to join in on protesting, I find myself bowing my head as much as I can with a Pegasus Knight clinging to me.
"I… I'll protect them to the best of my abilities, Your Grace." I answer through grit teeth. Curses! Of all the times for that 200 + CHAR stat to kick in!
"Cordelia."
Upon hearing Phila address her, Cordelia leaves my embrace and stands up to face her captain.
"You will stay here with Chrom." the Falcon Knight commands.
Cordelia looks at Phila in shock. "But, Captain-"
"I know your heart is heavy, but this is how it must be." Phila interrupts. Then she smiles comfortingly. "Your knight-sisters will be with you in spirit, wherever you go."
Cordelia looks like she's about to argue, but quickly steels her features. "…May they give me strength. As you command, Captain. I will pray for your safety."
"Come Phila. We must go." Emmeryn interjects as she turns to leave.
"No! You don't have to go! This is absurd!" Chrom roars.
Emmeryn turns back with a frown. "Chrom, you don't-"
"Walking to your own death will not bring peace to anyone! Ylisse needs you. WE need you! Be selfish for once in your life!" Chrom begs.
Emmeryn remains silent for a while before she gives the prince an affectionate smile. "I love you, Chrom. Both you and Lissa are my everything. As for the peace I seek…" Emmeryn shakes her head. "You cannot see who it is for."
The exalt steels her features as she mounts Phila's pegasus. "I have to go. I'm sorry – I truly am. Let us embrace again in Ylisstol when you arrive with Feroxi reinforcements. I know you will come."
Chrom shakes his head in desperation. "…This is a terrible plan."
"The blood of the first exalt flows strong in us." Emmeryn replies smiling. "You and I will keep Ylisse safe. I believe it with all my heart. Safe journey, Chrom. Safe journey, Lissa."
As Phila and her Pegasus Knights take off with Emmeryn, Chrom reaches for her one final time.
"Emm… Emm?! Ah…" The prince falls to his knees and slams a fist into the ground in resignation.
Quest alert:
Main quest: Incursion
The terrifying news that Cordelia brought at the cost of her knight-sisters has forced Emmeryn's hand. You may have won this battle, but protecting the exalt just became much harder as she returns to the capital to defend her people. Get to Ferox and have Flavia assemble her troops ASAP!
Objective: Defeat all plegians.
All objectives cleared!
Rewards: Your standing with Ylisse has improved! You gain 7 000 EXP! You gain 7 000 gold!
Bonus objective: Don't let Cordelia die
Bonus objective cleared!
Bonus rewards: Your relationship with Cordelia has improved! You gain 500 EXP! You gain 500 gold!
You have leveled up!
Your standing with Ylisse is now "Ally"!
Robin narrows her eyes as she absorbs all the information.
"Chrom, we should hurry to Regna Ferox."
Chrom looks up from his position on the ground.
"The exalt won't last long against Gangrel with most of the pegasus knights wiped out. If we even want to stand a chance at protecting her, we'll need Khan Flavia's aid." the Tactician elaborates. "That means we have to reach Ferox – now!"
Chrom gets up and steels his features. "I- You're right, Robin. Gangrel will pay for what he's done to Ylisse. Shepherds! We head for Ferox immediately!"
As everyone gets ready to march, Chrom approaches Cordelia. Girl's barely holding it together, after everything that's happened.
"Let's go, Cordelia. We'll avenge your knight-sisters, I swear."
Cordelia lets out a shaky breath before steeling herself. "I- Yes, my prince."
Chrom smiles at her. "You're one of us, now. I can't promise that we'll be a family for you, but by the gods, we'll try."
Cordelia closes her eyes as one last tear slides down her cheek.
"I- Thank you… Thank you so much…"
To be continued
Preview of the next chapter:
*The sun shines brightly over the Plegian desert*
Jack: Ugh… So hot…
Robin: This is the fastest way to reach the capital of Plegia undetected. Please try to hold out, Jack.
Maribelle: And this is why you never mock the parasol.
*Nowi runs over the dunes with Gregor hot on her heels*
Nowi: I said: leave me alone!
Gregor: Why little one make rescuing so difficult? Gregor only want to help!
Grimleal: There they are! Get the girl, now!
Gregor: Timing only get worse, no? This is becoming tiring day for Gregor.
Chrom: Halt, fiend! Leave that little girl alone!
Gregor: *Sigh* Very tiring day. Why everyone bully Gregor?!
Next time on Gamer Emblem Awakening:
Must…protecc…loli dragon… Dark dunes in the blazing hot desert!
Jack: Sora really should've taken Genie up on the offer to make a highway through the dessert. It would've made traveling through here so much easier.
Omake: Deleted scenes
Validar approaches Robin with a sinister grin.
"Become my apprentice. Learn to use the dark side of the Force."
Robin scowls. "Naga d-mn it, Father! This isn't Star Wars!"
Validar looks at the Tactician in shock before he pulls out the script and reads it carefully.
"What?! Who changed my script?"
"Bwa ha ha ha!"
Validar grits his teeth. "Gangrel…"
"Catch me if you can~." the Mad King taunts as he expertly dodges Ruin spells.
As Lucina offers the nut to Itachi, the squirrel stares into her eyes. Itachi's eyes suddenly turn red with a curious design in the middle.
"Tsukiyomi."
Next thing she knows, Lucina finds herself bound to a tree with dozens of identical squirrels surrounding her.
"This is the world of Tsukiyomi." Itachi's voice squeaks out from seemingly everywhere. "For the next 72 hours, I shall teach you about the glory that are hazelnuts."
*Smack!*
Jack hits the squirrel over the head, breaking the illusion and allowing Lucina to wake up in a daze.
"How many times do I have to tell you?!" Jack shouts at Itachi. "No putting honorary members of the clan in your Sharingan induced illusions! Heck, did we even have a Tsukiyomi scene planned, for that matter?"
"Sorry." the squirrel squeaks.
As Vasto closes in on Jack, the Traveler responds by launching several more windblades.
"Do a barrel roll!"
During the maneuver, Vasto's grip on the saddle slips, throwing him off the wyvern and down the valley below.
*Insert falling Goofy scream*
Jack and the wyvern look where the plegian fell before looking towards each other.
"Uh… That was the stuntman, right?" Jack asks the Wyvern uncertainly.
The wyvern does the equivalent of a shrug.
Jack shrugs back. "Oh, well. Wonder if Orton's up for another fight scene."
New skills:
Animal tongue, Lvl MAX, Passive
Communicating with animals has been a vital part of developing human civilization. Few humans, however, truly understand what an animal says unless they share a deep bond. Your bond, however, is on a whole other level, allowing you to understand what an animal says, word for word. All those lessons with Chopper finally payed off.
Allows the user to communicate with animals as though they were speaking with a human. Current languages: Squirrel.
Rasengan fastball, Lvl 1 [0.0 %], Active, Cost: 200 MP
A skill originally created by Boruto Uzumaki, the son of the seventh Hokage. Whereas a normal Rasengan only works at close range, this version of the spiraling sphere can be thrown to hit enemies at range. Bear in mind, however, that it loses power as it travels.
Base damage: 500 % of the caster's INT stat. Element: None. Maximum range: 5 meters.
Jack's encyclopedic corner
Mad King, Title
You're known for being an oddball, the personification of the chaotic alignment. You could laugh for seemingly no reason at all. And, most importantly, people have a hard time getting a read on you because you're so unpredictable. People tend to regard you with mistrust due to your crazy behavior. The most grating part? Your face practically screams "U mad?", even when you don't mean it. You're not necessarily evil – you're just an expert at getting under everyone's skin.
Passively increases INT by 10 % and reduces CHAR by 10 %.
Sorcerer, Class
A master of the dark arts and an overall accomplished spellcaster. Having studied so many facets of the arcane disciplines grants these mages the ability to both cast magic with frightening efficiency, as well as counter incoming spells. They can cast magic of any element just fine, but they are always at home when it comes to the dark element. While often associated with evil, this is not always the case. Eccentric, on the other hand? That would be a more fitting description.
Damage dealt with melee weapons of any kind is reduced by 10 %. Damage dealt with dark-element magic is increased by 15 %. Damage dealt with magic of any other element except for light is increased by 10 %. Damage taken from light magic is increased by 10 %.
Concoction, Consumable, Uncommon
By using the recipe for Vulneraries as the base, herbs with stronger medicinal properties were added to make a more potent medicine. Most of these herbs are difficult to find and cultivate, which also results in a steeper price. It may well be worth it, as some of these herbs naturally gather ambient mana as they grow. Consuming this medicine therefore restores some of your mana along with healing your wounds.
Restores up to 20 % of your maximum HP and MP. Each flask holds three rations.
Silver Lance, Polearm, Base damage: 100, Very uncommon
A lance typically reserved for elite cavalry and guards stationed at keeps with key strategical value. While not as durable or hefty as iron or steel, silver has the rare property of being especially easy to enchant. These enchantments grant this weapon greater striking power than traditionally forged weapons. However, the enchantments require a high level of skill and the qualified mages are few and far in-between. This, along with how expensive silver is, makes this weapon much more expensive to go along with its tremendous damage output.
Phew. Cramming two whole in-game chapters into this one took more space than I anticipated. But I'm finally done with it.
Chapter 6 is one of my favorite chapters in the entire game.
Gameplay wise, you have the option of trying numerous strategies to stop the assassins from reaching Emmeryn. You can either play defensively and gather everyone near the chamber, or you can go offensive by establishing dominance in the pillar hall further south. Or you could do like me: split everyone into three groups to block the hallways, while praying that Lissa and Maribelle can move fast enough to heal anyone that gets injured. Not the most optimal, but it looks awesome.
Story wise, this is the chapter where Chrom reveals some of his and his sisters' past. It's at this point that it becomes clear that the royal siblings are anything but a pair of Mary Sues and a Gary Stu. These three had it rough growing up! The reason why they sometimes don't seem to need much character development (although Chrom still gets plenty of it in the game) is because they've already spent 15 years with that kind of stuff before they even meet Robin. That's the main reason why I love the royal siblings as characters. They know hardship, and they've grown both individually and as a family by enduring them.
This is also the chapter where we're introduced to one of the major villains of Awakening: Validar. Speaking of Validar, I've chosen to mention the father aspect as a statement of my own opinion. Seriously, raising your child to become the vessel for an apocalyptic dragon because you were never worthy yourself is NOT okay! That being said, Validar is far from the only terrible father in the Fire Emblem franchise. Two that immediately come to mind are Ashnard in PoR and Desmond (Zephiel's father) from FE7.
Be warned, as the following paragraphs may contain spoilers for those games, as well as chronologically related games.
Ashnard deserves mentioning due to some lore in RD. Here it's revealed that he had a relationship with a dragon laguz, though they never got together out of love. As unromantic as it was, they actually conceived a baby boy together in a moment of mutual attraction (mother's words, not mine). Ashnard was ecstatic at first, since the boy was half dragon, but eventually gave up upon discovering that the boy didn't possess any of the talents that the king of Daein had hoped for. As a result, Ashnard abandoned his son. During the events of RD, it's revealed that that boy was Soren. The irony lies in the fact that Soren had a hand in defeating the king of Daein years later as a member of the Greil mercenaries.
And then there's Desmond. Ho boy… This guy is just messed up. A little backstory is needed to illustrate my point. Desmond married two women – one for political reasons, but never out of love, and one purely out of love, but with no political influence – and had a child each with those women. The elder child, Zephiel, was born from his political marriage. Being the son of a woman that he didn't even love, Desmond had no love for Zephiel either. His half-sister Guinivere, however, was born from the woman that Desmond loved, and Desmond loved her deeply as well. All right, that's the backstory.
Growing up, Zephiel excelled at just about everything he tried, from combat prowess to politics, while Desmond himself only reaped average results at the same age. The young prince grew popular, even gaining the adoration from his half-sister. The young boy's rise to fame left Desmond jealous, to the point that he hired assassins to kill the prince. The plot failed, but Desmond's resentment remained. The irony of this family story is that Zephiel didn't excel purely due to some unprecedented talent; he pushed himself relentlessly in the hopes of gaining his father's approval. Yet the more he excelled, the more his father resented him. Zephiel's past in FE 7 paints him in a very different light compared to his portrayal in BB. He may be a nihilistic war monger, but that's rooted in some deep family issues. Seriously, the events of BB could've potentially been prevented if Desmond stopped feeling sorry for himself and actually tried to see his son for who he was and what he tried to do. Resenting your son just because he excels at stuff more than you do is NOT okay, man!
Okay, those were the spoilers.
Yeah, I decided to give the squirrels names. As for the two squirrels Jack met in the beginning of the chapter, you probably know who they're based off. As an added bonus; try putting their names together. What do you get?
The Yiga's reaction to the bananas are a reference to the Donkey Kong 64 community. If you want to learn more, just watch the DK 64 run during SGDQ 2017 and pay attention to the crowd whenever the runner obtains a golden banana.
Jack's finally started to integrate more stuff into his battle style. It's a work in progress, but he's building to make that style a reality. He even got a new go-to weapon, one of the coolest looking weapons in BotW IMO; the Windcleaver. Seriously, just look at the thing! It's a katana (or nodachi, if you're splitting hairs) that can launch windblades! It's awesome!
And for those who waited for Jack to solo a boss: you got your wish fulfilled.
A quick shout out to warrior of six blades: Sorry to disappoint you if you expected some Cordelia action. She needs to recover from that emotional blow first. Rest assured, I've got stuff planned for her in the future. She needs to get back on her feet first.
That's all for now. Please rate and review.
VipeR out.
