THIS FIC HAS OVER 300 FAVORITES AND 400 FOLLOWERS! THIS IS AWESOME! YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME!
*Ahem!* Sorry, had to get that out of my system.
Hello, dear readers. CrossVipeR316 here with the latest chapter of Gamer Emblem Awakening. And, wow. While I have seen indications of fans supporting the Chrom-delia ship before, your reviews hit it home how many have longed for this to happen, even if it's unofficial. And that's before considering all the supporters who have yet to speak up. I'm SO taking that ship to the other end of the fandom ocean.
While writing this chapter, a thought occurred to me. The chapter when the Shepherds storm Emmeryn's execution opens up for a challenge to every fanfic author who tries their hand on it. It boils down to this decision: save Emmeryn, or "kill" Emmeryn. Obviously, either option has effects that last until pretty much the end. The main part of the challenge, however, is how to integrate the decision into a cohesive narrative and make it a natural part of the story. Naturally, I'm taking this challenge myself. And boy, did I open the gates for something big (I think).
Also, some update info: I noticed I had forgotten to add "Alchemic transmutation" to the list of new skills. That has been updated as of now.
Onto some reviews.
TheOrangeLord: I beg to differ. Canonically, Lucina has five potential mothers – one of who is a simple village maiden – and she turns out the exact same way for every one of them, save for her possible skillset. I dare say adding Cordelia on the list can work just fine.
kyle77776: Not planning on taking any weapon ideas, since I already have a rough draft in my head on how the story will go all the way to the end. Though feel free to suggest weapons if you'd like to. In fact, one of the weapons Jack uses in this chapter was inspired by a review of an earlier chapter.
Rudeus: Is the new summary better?
Dragon of the Blazeing Stars: You do bring up a good point regarding Nowi. I've taken some time considering this, and I have some ideas on how to give her some more screen time. This'll be fun.
ShadowPhoenix34: Yes, the squirrels are basically a giant Naruto parody. I have way too much fun with this concept, and Jack has way too many headaches with these furry little nutcases. XD
Firem 78910: I certainly see your point regarding the two. In fact, it's only after I read your review that I even considered the pair. Spoiler alert, they both marry someone else.
As for Tharja, I highly doubt she'll try to get to Robin through Jack. Our favorite goth/yandere Dark Mage would gun for the Tactician with far more direct methods than that.
warrior of six blades & Obsessive Reader: The whole "You get in a relationship with Nowi, you go to jail" schtick is probably one of the oldest running gags in the Awakening fandom. From there, adding the FBI gag into the mix was just too perfect to ignore. Really, this kind of stuff practically writes itself.
Anonymus reviewer, October 18th: No Za Warudo, you say? *Rubs the back of my head* Funny you should mention that…
Also, love the description at the end. Pure. Genius.
Guest reviewer, October 22nd: While I can't speak for the other Gamer fanfic authors, my reason is basically because the secret weapons have the coolest effects. And in most cases, the rule of cool takes priority over some realistic stuff. I mean, that's why we have animé physics, right?
Yexius: Haven't planned on including Kakashi's unofficial ultimate technique yet. While hilarious, it would probably be a one-time thing at the most.
Copyright disclaimer: I only own the plot of this fic. For a full copyright disclaimer, please read chapter 1.
Killing, on the other hand? Now that's up my alley – Tharja
Chapter 9:
Naga save the exalt!
Stop that execution!
We're all gathered just outside camp, ready for action. All that's left is to wait for Gaius to return from his scouting and report his findings.
Chrom fidgets nervously in place. "Come on, Gaius! It's not supposed to take this long."
Frederick places a calming hand on the prince's shoulder. "Please, calm yourself, milord. While time is indeed of the essence, making hasty decisions will only lead to failure."
Chrom takes a few deep breaths before he calms down. "I… No, you're right, Frederick. Thank you. I needed that."
At that moment, Gaius crests the nearest hill and slides to a stop in front of us.
"You were right on the gold, Bubbles." the Thief reports. "They're planning on executing the exalt in just a few hours. The soldiers in the castle won't stop talking about it and there's already a crowd forming near the courtyard."
"This is it, then." Basilio declares.
"Exactly as you predicted, Robin." Chrom adds.
The Tactician nods. "So far, yes. But now will be the true test…"
Flavia delivers a hard pat on Robin's back. "Chin up, there! Show some confidence! It's your thinking that's got us this far. The plan is risky, but only as much is called for."
"She's right, Robin." I add from the side. "You've maneuvered us through the desert in ways I didn't even think possible and got us here just in time to blindside Gangrel and pull off this rescue mission. You've spent hours preparing for this one battle." I give her a confident smirk. "Now is the time for those preparations to pay off. After all, fortune smiles for those who come prepared, does it not?"
Robin smiles and nods. "That it does, Jack. Thank you."
"We'll find a way to see it through, Robin. Don't worry." Chrom assures. "When this is over, we'll be swapping stories with Emm on the road home."
Robin's nods determined. "I hope you're right."
Quest alert:
Main quest: Execution crashers
There are those who crash parties. There are those who crash weddings. Heck, you've heard stories about some dude crashing funerals! In your case, you're crashing an execution. All your preparation in Ferox has led up to this moment. You're in position to storm the courtyard in front of castle Plegia and ready to foil Gangrel's little public show at all costs. At the end of today, this clash will leave a permanent mark on history. The question remains; will Emmeryn be saved, or die?
Objective: Defeat all Plegian soldiers
Rewards: 9 000 EXP, 9 000 gold
Bonus objective: ?
Bonus rewards: 10 000 EXP, 10 000 gold, ?, ?, ?
Failure: The public execution gets extended with Gangrel having you all publicly killed one by one while Emmeryn is forced to watch. THEN he snatches the Fire Emblem from Chrom's lifeless fingers.
We've positioned ourselves behind some rock outcroppings and sand dunes northwest of the castle courtyard. Cordelia has to visibly restrain Chrom as we all see Emmeryn march towards the tip of a high cliff with her hands bound behind her back and with a Barbarian pushing her forward. At their current altitude, Emmeryn would die, even if she simply got pushed off the rock (confirmed by canon – sort of).
The courtyard is packed with plegians. Soldiers stand at attention both on the courtyard walls and outside around it. Yikes! Gangrel's not holding back with this event. He's hellbent on having Emmeryn die, and he wants it public.
The Mad King himself walks out on a balcony overlooking the courtyard.
He begins his opening speech. "Good people! Warriors of Plegia! Welcome! Welcome, one and all! Your anticipation electrifies the air!" Even so far away, we can hear his voice clearly.
The crowd cheers in response. Mad King he may be, but Gangrel's obviously popular in his home country.
"We ALL remember the crimes of Ylisse… Would you have their witch-queen answer for them? Here? Today? NOW?"
The crowd is positively zealous, alternating between screaming for Emmeryn's blood and shouting for a war to raze Ylisse to the ground.
Gangrel grins manically. "YEEEEEEEES! Finally, we will have JUSTICE!" The Mad King turns towards the Barbarian standing behind Emmeryn. "EXECUTIONER! If you would be so kind…"
Robin turns to Flavia. "Flavia!"
"I've got him!" the reigning khan replies.
*Thunk!*
Flavia just sniped a headshot on that guy with an Iron Axe – from, like, 200 paces away and with her having the lower ground! That axe throwing feat was insane! Miriel, you need to step up your game!
Robin raises her hand with lightning magic sparking in her palm and takes a deep breath. "EVERYONE: NOW!"
BGM: Dr. Wily stage 1 & 2, Super Smash Bros (Wii U) music (Originally from the Megaman series)
Cordelia and Sumia take the lead as they clash straight into the first enemy line. I'm right behind them with Gale step pumping out at max.
*Screech!*
Incoming Wyvern Rider? I don't fear your kind anymore! Just as the plegian dives for a horizontal swing, I jump over the axe and draw my Windcleaver.
*Shing!* "Next." I say impassively as the Wyvern Rider's head slides off his shoulders.
Stahl rides past me with Panne by his side. A pair of Myrmidons try to intercept them. Just as they reach striking range, Panne makes a hairpin turn, sending dust and sand into the eyes of the plegians. They hardly have time to react to the unexpected maneuver before Stahl's horse runs over one of them. The other gets mauled down by a taguel spinning all over his back like a possessed furry wheel.
Miriel casts a massive Elfire spell to clear a path for Frederick and Chrom to rush into the opening and smash the enemy ranks. A Barbarian tries to flank her, only to stop in mid-air.
"Won't get past me!"
Miriel smiles in the general direction of the stopped Barbarian. "Why, thank you, Kellam." Then she roasts the plegian alive.
*Thwip!*
An arrow lands right at my feet. Wait, that didn't come from Virion.
"They have archers on the wall! Take them out, or Sumia and Cordelia won't take flight!" I hear Robin shout behind me.
A quick glance confirms the Tactician's observation. Our Pegasus Knights are forced to fly low to avoid the many arrows coming from the wall. Now, how do we get rid of enemies stationed beyond most of our range and behind cover?
As I scan the wall for options, I notice Nowi triple-team a few Soldiers and a Fighter with Vaike and…Lissa? She doesn't just heal up the others, she even gets up close to the Plegian Fighter and swings her staff at the guy with gusto. The Fighter tries to retaliate, only for Lissa to step out of range and hook her staff behind the axeblade.
"I might surprise you!" the Cleric shouts before she yanks the axe out of his grip, catches it by the handle and swings it down on him. He manages to survive, but the shock of him getting played by a Cleric is unmistakable. Before he can even recover, Sully enters the fray and stabs her Steel Lance clean through his chest.
"Nice save!" Lissa tells the red Cavalier.
An idea pops in my head. That's it! Nowi!
I sheathe my Windcleaver and dash towards the gathered quartet with the manakete in my sights.
"Nowi! Give me a lift!" I shout to her.
The transformed manakete looks in my direction and nods as she picks up on my plan. As I close in, Nowi flips in the air and stretches out her tail. I jump onto the tail, then sync Nowi's upward swing with a Reinforced jump. The maneuver catapults me straight up into the air and over the edge of the wall within seconds, much to the shock of the Plegian Archers.
As I approach the apex of my boosted jump, sparks fly from my left hand.
"Trace on!"
Palutena's Bow appears in my hand. I quickly channel mana through the divine weapon, making a bowstring of light appear between the ends. As I grab hold and draw back, an arrow of light forms at my fingertips.
"Peekaboo!" The arrow flies and nails an Archer right in the forehead. From there, I alternate between firing more light arrows and repositioning myself in the air using Gale step. The Archers might be good, but I'm moving too fast for them to aim properly. Oh, and I have Mind's eye. Can't forget about that.
As effective as distracting these guys is, however, there are still more Archers on the wall firing at my allies down below. I need a faster method!
So I direct a Gale step to bring me to the wall itself. As I land, I split Palutena's Bow into a pair of short swords and run straight towards the Archers.
Duck, slice, pivot, slice, block, redirect arrow with Telekinesis, jump, change direction in mid-air, stab straight down.
I have my hands full handling these guys. It's either constant movement or get turned into a pincushion. The worst part is that I'm still only occupying part of the archery lineup, while the rest fire arrows at the others. I need to take them down fast!
Hm… The section of the wall where most of the Plegian Archers are stationed is pretty much a straight line. A smirk grows on my face as an idea of how I can exploit that blooms in my mind.
I dash with Gale step towards one end of said straight section while keeping as low to the ground as possible. Thanks to Mind's eye and quick reflexes (further augmented by Monkey moves), I duck, weave and slip between the Archers while occasionally bouncing between the walls for extra tight turns. I close in on the far end of the section of the wall, where I want to be. A Knight takes note of my approach and attempts to intercept me. Just as he stabs his Steel Lance forward, I jump above him, push with Gale step to get behind him faster and deliver a kick to his back. The sudden move leaves him temporarily unbalanced and stumbling. More importantly, he's now between me and the Archers, acting as a temporary shield against their arrows. That grants me the precious time to Trace another weapon.
The mana disperses to reveal Don Krieg's Super War Spear. Instead of using it the intended way, however, I nock the polearm on Palutena's Bow. As I pull the string back, the spear shrinks and transforms until it resembles an arrow with a particularly big head with a skull motif painted on it.
The Knight finally manages to right himself and turns around to attack me again. By that time, I've already pulled back the bowstring and taken aim.
"Game over, n00bs."
I let the transformed weapon fly.
*Thwip! BOOM!*
I knew shooting a Traced weapon from a bow would yield powerful results, but this might be more than I expected. The Traced weapon-turned-arrow exploded upon impact, destroying the top of a tower in the process. As in, the whole top was blown to smithereens! Everything between me and the destroyed tower was pretty much blown through like it wasn't even there. Some of the Archers are missing an arm. Some miss their heads. The Knight who stood in front of me is hardly there anymore. The arms, legs and head, along with what they were equipped with, are all that's left. The torso is just…gone.
Daaa-n! Now I understand why archer-Emiya loves using his Traced weapons this way. The Super War Spear normally explodes with every impact, making it a dangerous weapon to use unless you're heavily protected. Firing it from my bow basically turned it into a supercharged bomb arrow. I…will only use this when no allies are within the blast radius. The friendly fire could be disastrous.
The Archers that survived my shot are absolutely terrified of me now. The few who can move try to put as much distance from me as possible, not that they can get very far on a partially destroyed wall and with crippling injuries. As heartless as it may be, they have to go. I split Palutena's Bow into the dual blades again and charge in. The least I can do is make their deaths quick and painless.
I finish up the rest of the Archers within two minutes, tops. Mind's eye tells me that there are no more Plegian Archers on the wall, which is nice in the case that one was hiding. I nod in satisfaction before I walk to the railing and take a deep breath.
"Robin! The Archers are down!"
The Tactician looks in my direction and nods. Then she faces our Pegasus Knights.
"Sumia! Cordelia!"
Seeing as the skies are cleared off enemy arrows, the Pegasus Knights take flight immediately, meeting Wyvern riders on an even playing field or diving in from above to provide support.
Alright, where do they need me next? Wait… There's some fighting going on to the south. A lone figure fighting several plegains. Well, the enemy of my enemy is my friend, right? Might as well help them.
I Reinforce my legs and take a running start before I hurl myself off the wall and kick the air the best I can with Gale step to reach the lone figure as fast as possible. They have the situation handled pretty well with the two Soldiers at melee range, but the Archers and Dark Mages are a different story. Some cover fire is in order.
My pseudo flight quickly takes me above the fighting. I reform the bow and Trace another Super War Spear. I aim straight down at the plegians attacking from afar.
*BOOM!*
I doubt any of them made it out in one piece. Fortunately, that massive explosion drew the attention of the other plegians as well as the unidentified figure. I redirect myself to land right behind the Soldiers and take them down with a few quick slashes before I finally dismiss Palutena's Bow.
BGM ends
"Bless you." the figure says gratefully.
I rise from my crouch and smile at the now identified feminine person.
"You're welcome, miss-"
"I am a man." the person interrupts me abruptly.
Huh? What does she mean by-
Libra Lvl 30 Class: War Monk
No way… THAT'S Libra?! Dude, this guy could pose as a model by looks alone! I know Libra's basically an animé trap, but…sheesh. There has to be a limit for how feminine a guy can appear. Libra just looks like a woman, period. Doesn't help that his voice sounds feminine as well.
Okay, deep breaths. Reboot brain slowly. Libra simply breaks the mold with his mere existence. It's not the end of the world or anything.
"Wha- How-"
The War Monk sighs. "Yes, this happens quite often. Rest assured, I am used to it by now. The good news is that you found out before things got awkward. Very awkward."
I nod dumbly. "Uh, okay, then. So, what brings a Priest here, of all places?"
Libra blinks before an urgent look forms on his (very attractive) face. "No! I have to hurry and save Her Grace!"
"Let me help you, then." I offer. "I'm with the Shepherds, and we came here to rescue the exalt too."
Libra nods gratefully. "So Prince Chrom is here as well? Truly, the gods smile upon us today. Oh, Great ones, we give you our most humble-"
"Uh, can we save the prayers for after we've saved the exalt?" I interrupt.
Libra clears his throat with a slight blush. "*Ahem!* Yes, that would be the most appropriate course of action."
As we set off towards the courtyard, I glance at Libra.
"By the way, my name's Jack."
"Libra." the War Monk replies. "And to clarify, I am a War Monk."
I nod. "Sounds good to me."
Our run soon gets interrupted by more plegians.
"I cannot afford to lose more time fighting these soldiers! Move aside!" Libra shouts as we get closer. Some of the soldiers in front sneer at him.
"We ain't movin' aside for anybody, even if it's a hot gal!" the Myrmidon in the lead declares.
Libra growls angrily and crouches in a low stance. His Killer Axe starts glowing as I notice him channel mana through the weapon. I didn't even know you could do that unless the weapon itself is made of mana-conducting materials.
"Gods, forgive me!"
That's the only warning the plegians get before Libra attacks them head-on with a brutal downward swing.
*THOOM!*
The poor soldiers scatter from the violent blow like leaves in the wind. Some of them survive with heavy injuries, some flat-out die. Yikes! Do not piss off the feminine War Monk!
Libra's massive blow opens a hole in the Plegain ranks for us to slip through. We continue running towards the courtyard when we notice a lone Dark Mage approach us with her hand glowing purple.
Wait. Her?
Tharja Lvl 24 Class: Dark Mage
Libra is just about to clash with the Dark Mage when I dash in-between them.
"Wait!" I shout at the War Monk.
Libra stops confused. "Jack, move aside! We have to get past her."
I shake my head. "We don't need to fight her. Look closer. She's not regarding us with any real hatred, unlike the other plegains." Thank goodness I have Detect bloodlust for this. I can tell where all the bloodlust directed at me is coming from, and none of those directions originate from Tharja.
Libra regards the Dark Mage carefully. "How can you tell?"
I smile in response. "Why don't we just ask her?"
By this point, Tharja has already reached us. The dark spell still remains in her hand, but she's yet to cast it.
"Well, this is unusual." the Dark Mage drawls. "Normally, my enemy would just attack me head-on or ogle me like a piece of meat. You do neither."
"And you're not particularly interested in fighting us, are you?" I counter.
Tharja shrugs. "I don't particularly care about fighting for my home country or some other ridiculous things like that. Why bother? We'll die sooner or later anyway. Might as well be for my own cause instead of for some king that I don't even care about. Sure, long live him and all that, but it doesn't even concern me."
Ah, Tharja… The textbook definition of happy-go-lucky…not!
I raise an eyebrow. "You don't seem motivated at fighting at all."
"Not really." Then Tharja smirks and giggles with a sinister tone. "Killing, on the other hand? Now that's up my alley."
"Why not join us, then?" I ask, to Libra's shock.
Tharja raises an eyebrow. "You want me to switch sides? Granted, I've no love for this country – or anything in particular, for that matter. Why would I even want to side with you?"
"Honestly, it's mostly because I'd rather stay on your good side than on your bad. That, and I'm convinced my prince would offer you the same thing upon hearing your reasons for fighting. Or lack thereof."
Tharja scoffs. "Your prince must be hopelessly naïve, then. I mean, really. Who would offer a member of the enemy army a place in their own out of the blue? For all you know, I could just be a spy sent to worm my way into your circles to kill your precious royalty. Or, I'd just stab you in the back the first chance I get because I feel like it."
I nod sagely. "True, but do you know what Prince Chrom would say to that?" Tharja regards me with a bored expression. I'll take that as a "no". "He'd accept you anyway. Something about him already having to watch his back."
"Huh…" Tharja replies. "First time I hear an answer like that to the backstabbing part." The Dark Mage shrugs. "Sure, why not? I'll join you – for now."
Then she smirks at me. "Besides, I think this side is a little more fun. Now that I look closer, I can tell there's something…strange about you. You intrigue me. And if something intrigues me, I take very good care of it."
I can hear alarm bells going off like crazy in my head upon seeing that smirk. What's worse; becoming Miriel's latest test subject, or Tharja's?
Wait, who am I even kidding? It's becoming Tharja's subject, any day of the week.
A nearby Soldier managed to overhear our conversation and rushes towards Tharja with his lance at the ready.
"You dare betray your country? Die, you witch!"
Tharja simply sidesteps the lunge and grabs the Soldier by the face with her right hand – which still has its dark spell at the ready. That's when Tharja finally lets her spell loose. The Soldiers agonized screams indicate that's a Nosferatu spell. And judging by Tharja's sadistic smirk, she loves using it point-blank.
She lets go off the Soldier's face some time after the screams cease. All that's left of him is a shriveled body with his face set in horror and pain.
Libra looks at the fallen Soldier appalled. "By the gods, what cruelty…"
Tharja just scoffs at her former ally. "He deserved worse."
I draw my Windcleaver again and walk in front of our two newest allies. "We can discuss battle ethics after we're done here. We have to get to the courtyard and rescue the exalt, pronto." I turn to look at Tharja. "How about it? Are you in?"
Tharja shrugs. "I joined your cause, didn't I? I guess I'll just go with you."
Good enough, I suppose.
We set off without another word. We have about a dozen plegians approaching us from the front. Better step up my game.
Sparks fly from my left hand once more before they reveal Wado Ichimonji. I dash straight into enemy lines with Gale step. My sudden increase in speed takes the plegians by surprise, allowing me to zip between them while I slash every which way. The confusion-turned-panic distracts the soldiers long enough for Tharja to cast spells with murderous enthusiasm. It's a good thing I can see where she's aiming with Mind's eye, or I'd risk getting in the line of fire. Meanwhile, Libra circles the gathered soldiers and flanks them with deadly axe swings.
Things are going well, considering they outnumber us four-to-one. That is, until I notice something from outside our battle. Drat! They've already called in their extra Wyvern Riders!
"Tharja! Behind you!"
The Dark Mage turns around to see a Wyvern Rider dive at her at full speed with his axe raised high. She won't dodge in time! Gotta pull her out!
"Elthunder!"
BGM: Dialga's fight to the finish!, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time/Darkness music
A lightning spell slams into the Wyvern Rider from the side, fries him and sends him veering off into the sand instead of on Tharja.
Robin's caught up to us! And in the nick of time too!
Alright, better finish up on my part as well.
"Libra, get ready!"
I dash right back into the fray, jumping and dashing between plegians as I go while I slash at them. While they mostly suffer grave injuries, the main point is driving them towards the War Monk. Right as they line up perfectly, I jump back.
"Now!"
Libra swings his axe with a war cry and beheads the six remaining plegians with a single strike. He flicks some blood off the Killer Axe and takes a calming breath.
"In Naga's name…"
With no enemies approaching us for now, I turn to our female allies. Robin seems a bit uncomfortable around Tharja, while the Dark Mage looks at the Tactician with…is that lust? What the heck happened while I looked away?
"Oh, looks like you've already introduced each other." I comment as I approach them. Robin visibly relaxes upon seeing me, while Tharja glances in my direction and smiles slightly.
"Oh, yes." the Dark Mage purrs. "You know, Jack, had you told me you had a woman like Robin on your side, I would've joined you on the spot. E hee hee hee hee…"
Robin backs away from Tharja slowly. "Jack, I don't know what made you convince Tharja to join, but I'm not really comfortable with the idea."
I shrug. "Hey, anyone who doesn't oppose us is a potential ally, right?"
The Tactician eyes me skeptically while still making sure the Dark Mage is at a comfortable distance away from her.
"I can't argue with that logic in and of itself, but… Really?"
I nod. "Really. Trust me, I know what I'm doing."
"For your sake, I hope you're right."
"Jack! There you are!" I hear Chrom shout as he reaches us. He's got the others with him, meaning they should be done cleaning up those Wyvern Rider reinforcements further back. Good, we're all gathered.
"Hey, Chrom." I greet back. "I got us a few more allies. Meet Libra and Tharja."
Virion eyes Libra and Tharja in appreciation. "And what stunning beauties at that. I must say, my friend, you certainly know how to pick the ladies."
"I am a man." Libra replies with a twitching eyebrow.
The Archer looks like someone slapped him in the face. "W-what?! But… But how- And with that face- That melodious voice…"
I clap Virion on the shoulder and nod sagely. "It's all right, Virion. I made the same mistake too when I first met Libra. If it's any consolation, he's very understanding on the matter."
Virion accepts defeat with a bowed head and a dark cloud over his head. Eh, he'll manage.
"As pleasant as meeting new allies may be, we have to hurry!" Chrom reminds us. "Emm's still up there, and I'd sooner get her down safe and sound rather than later."
Robin nods. "He's right. That's the reason we came here. Let's go everyone!"
A chorus of "Aye!" sounds through our ranks before we resume our charge towards the courtyard. Looks like the civilians were smart enough to get away the moment the battle started, as we only see soldiers in our way. What little resistance they manage to put up is quickly crushed under the weight of our entire group-plus-two-newcomers and Robin's strategizing on the fly.
The entrance to the castle courtyard comes into view. A lone General blocks it.
"You'll never save your precious exalt, scum!" He shouts before he slams his foot on the ground and gets in a stance. "Soldiers!"
In short order, at least two dozen new Plegian soldiers of various classes rush in from the sides and put themselves between us and the General.
This isn't getting us anywhere. Alright, if we're gonna break through quickly, I guess now's the time to pull out my new trump card.
Union strike: Final gambit
"Robin!"
"Let's go."
We rush straight towards the soldiers with our swords drawn. As we're about five paces apart, I dash ahead with Gale step and start slashing. My sudden burst of speed catches the soldiers off-guard, allowing me to dash back and forth between their ranks with constant hit-and-run attacks. At the same time, Robin strikes at anyone who's busy focusing on me, allowing the both of us to strike where our enemies least expect it.
"Switch it up!" I shout and jump back from the harried plegians.
Robin swaps her sword for a wind tome in the blink of an eye and starts to cast Wind spells at a rapid pace every which way. I channel wind-element mana through my Windcleaver and dash around to where the errant spells will fly to bat them right at the soldiers. With Robin firing the Wind spells at so many angles, I can hit them back in directions she normally wouldn't reach. As we go, we force the plegians into an increasingly smaller formation. Their growing panic soon has them packed pretty much shoulder-to-shoulder.
I skid to a stop and sheathe my Windcleaver. "Ready when you are!"
Robin brings out her Elthunder tome. "Time to tip the scales!"
I tense my legs and jump high into the air above the plegians. At the same time, Robin launches a spell that forms a rune circle crackling with lightning-element mana right where I'm going. I reach the rune circle at the apex of my jump, thrust my hand into the spell and grab hold of the mana within. The moment I feel a connection, I rotate the mana every which way while compressing all of it into a sphere. I soon have a yellow orb filled to the brim with highly concentrated, barely contained lightning magic in my hand.
I begin falling down towards the still hapless plegians and accelerate that fall with a Gale step aimed upwards.
"LEEROY JENKIIINS!"
*Krzzt! Ka-BRAM!*
The lightning sphere detonates with the force of a thunderbolt, electrocuting every single plegian while tearing at them with the rotational fury of a giant Rasengan. They die within a matter of seconds.
I used another Gale step to jump out of the blast radius before our combined technique went off. That has me skid to a stop right beside Robin with a three-point landing. I stand up and point my fist at her with a grin.
"All according to plan."
"Now that's strategy." Robin replies and returns the fist-bump with a satisfied smile.
With the mooks down, all that's left is the General. Robin turns to Frederick.
"The path's clear! Frederick!"
Frederick commands his horse into a full-speed charge as he pulls out the Savage Lynel Crusher I gave him last night. The look he directs towards the General can only mean one thing: no mercy.
"Pick a god and pray."
*KA-BRAM!*
The stalwart Great Knight hits his adversary with enough force to send him flying into the courtyard. A few seconds later, we hear the sound of a heavy metallic object crash into a stone wall at very high speeds. A stone wall that's at least 200 meters away. No mercy, indeed.
Frederick has leveled up!
BGM ends
Chrom turns to Robin. "Robin! Their wyverns have fallen! The skies are clear! I'm giving the signal!"
The prince raises Falchion into the air. The divine blade gleams in the Plegian morning sun.
That gleam heralds the entrance of Phila, accompanied by twenty or so Pegasus Knights.
"Your Grace!"
Emmeryn turns to her trusted guard and smiles. "Phila! I'm so glad to see you safe! But how-"
"Khan Basilio's men freed me." the Falcon Knight explains while flying towards the exalt. "Come, we must hurry!"
"What? More pegasus knights?" Gangrel exclaims in shock. "How did they…" The Mad King slams his fists on the railing of the balcony. "That damned Ylissean tactician does NOT play fair!"
Aversa pulls out a wooden box. "Heh heh heh… Yes, well. Neither do I."
Hold on. Is that what I think it is?
Reeking box, Consumable, Uncommon
A wooden box filled with corpse parts enchanted with potent dark magic. When opened, the corpse parts fuel the spell, which summons the undead to attack any living being in sight. Strangely enough, members of the Grimleal are never considered a target.
Spawns Risen to the surrounding area when used. Doing so will automatically count as you entering a battle.
If Aversa opens that box, she'll summon an army of undead Archers. Phila and her Pegasus Knights will be killed in a matter of seconds, Robin's plans will collapse like a house of cards, and Emmeryn will sacrifice herself for the greater good. Is this… Is this how things will go down? Do I want things to go down this way?
No.
H-LL no!
We didn't drag our asses through the Plegian desert in record time, fought a bunch of evil cultists and stormed the courtyard of the enemy's stronghold, only to trip at the finish line at the hands of some sadistic woman who won't stay out of our business! We didn't put in this much effort, only to fail! Robin didn't push herself to her limit, only to fail!
You think you can get away with pulling a deus-ex-machina on us, Aversa? Well, two can play that game, b-tch!
I make a mad dash into the courtyard.
"Jack, what are you doing?!" I hear Robin shout from behind me.
Sorry, Robin! No time to explain! A wave of dark purple miasma sweeps over the ground as I run across the courtyard. That miasma soon coalesces into clusters on the ground. That's most likely where the Risen Archers will spawn. Judging by their positions, my destination is about 30 paces in front of me, a little to the right.
*Insert heartbeat sound*
The Risen start to take shape. 20 paces!
Activate Mimicry. 15 paces!
Concentrate your mana. 10 paces!
Phila and the other fliers have spotted the Risen Archers, but they'll never get behind cover in time. 5 paces!
The Risen Archers are about to take aim. Made it!
*Heartbeat sounds stops*
"ZA WARUDO!"
A dome of mana rapidly expands until it covers the whole courtyard and even a bit beyond its surrounding wall. Everything and everyone inside the dome immediately freeze in place as time itself stops flowing – save for me.
A new skill has been created through a special action! You gained "Za Warudo!"!
A quick glance at my new skill's info tells me that I can only maintain it for a little while before my MP reaches zero. I need to move fast if I want to kill all the Risen before that happens.
I concentrate and create ten Shadow clones, wincing as my MP plummets even further. No time to lose!
"Kill them all!" I shout as I draw my Windcleaver. My clones do the same before we all dash in separate directions and decapitate the Risen Archers as fast as we can. Faster. Move faster!
It probably took less than 10 seconds to accomplish my task with the aid of my clones, but it felt more like hours. Nonetheless, I manage to hold Za Warudo active until I decapitate the last undead Archer. I sheathe my Windcleaver as my clones dispel.
"And time moves once again." *Clink*
The mana dome dispels, letting time resume its march where I stopped it less than a minute ago. The heads of the Risen Archers explode in dark purple mist along with the rest of their bodies as reality catches up to my actions.
At the same time, I fall to my knees as the "Exhausted" debuff hits me full force. My MP gave out just as I sheathed my weapon. I made it – barely.
Due to continuous strenuous activity, STR increases by 2!
Due to prolonged exhausting activity, VIT increases by 2!
Due to maneuvering through narrow gaps at high speed repeatedly, DEX increases by 3!
"What in blazes- What happened?!" Gangrel shouts from the balcony.
"No… Impossible…" Aversa adds from his side.
I direct a weak glance towards where the voices came from. Both Aversa and Gangrel look around the courtyard in shock, expecting Risen Archers, but not expecting them to vanish a moment later. Then they look at me. In fact, I think everyone present is looking at me.
"Holy cr-p. Don't tell me he defeated all of them. I didn't even have time to blink!" I hear Basilio shout from outside the courtyard.
"Chrom, could he always do that?" Flavia asks.
The prince shakes his head. "No, this is the first time I see Jack do…whatever it is he did. Honestly, none of us know the full extent of his strange abilities."
Wait, I think we're getting sidetracked here. I look upwards to where Phila and her Pegasus Knights are. They're very much still alive, thanks to me stopping those Archers in time (Hah!). And why the heck are they looking at me instead of rescuing Emmeryn?!
"Phila, take Her Grace and get out of here before Gangrel can get anymore reinforcements!" I shout to the Falcon Knight.
That breaks Phila out of her stupor as she turns back to Emmeryn and helps her up on the pegasus.
"No! They're getting away!" Gangrel shouts. Ah, seeing his plans crumble before his very eyes fills me with sadistic contentment. In your face, Mad King!
Gangrel's despair at being denied his satisfaction quickly turns into fury as he redirects his gaze on me.
"You! I don't know how you did it, but I know for sure that this is all your fault! Mark my words, boy; I will have your head for this!"
I struggle to get up on my feet and point at Gangrel. "You only have…yourself to blame…for this failure…" I reply while panting. "I'll never let you…taste any of your…twisted victories…as long as I draw breath. You messed with…the wrong halidom…court jester!"
It probably would've looked much cooler if my hand would stop trembling from the exhaustion.
I fall to the side as my strength fails me. Cr-p. Looks like insulting Gangrel took more out of me than I thought.
"Don't worry. I'm here for you."
Did I mention how happy I am that we have Cordelia with us? This girl has awesome timing, catching me before I hit the ground. With some help from the Pegasus Knight, I manage to climb up on her pegasus. We're up in the air in the blink of an eye.
"Alright, we're done here!" Basilio shouts from his position on the ground. "Let's leave this Plegian hellhole for good!"
We barely make it past the wall around the courtyard before we hear Gangrel roar about mounting troops to chase us down. Sheesh, this guy doesn't know when to quit.
Quest alert:
Main quest: Execution crashers
Tensions were high, the fights were brutal, but you survived a full-scale battle at enemy turf. Now's not the time to celebrate, however. You've clearly overstayed your welcome in Plegia. It's time to book it for the first wagon back to Regna Ferox.
Objective: Defeat all Plegian soldiers
Objective cleared!
Rewards: You gain 9 000 EXP! You gain 9 000 gold!
Bonus objective: Successfully rescue Emmeryn
Bonus rewards: You gain 10 000 EXP! You gain 10 000 gold! Your relationship with Chrom has increased greatly! Your relationship with Lissa has increased greatly! Your standing with Ylisse has automatically advanced to the next level!
You have leveled up! You have leveled up!
Your relationship with Chrom has advanced! Your relationship with Chrom is now "Allies"!
Your standing with Ylisse has advanced! Your standing with Ylisse is now "Hero"!
Your actions have earned you a new title! You gained the title "Ylissean folk hero"!
Timeskip
A few minutes after we left the immediate area around castle Plegia, I felt it safe enough to take a swig from my Concoction bottle. The taste was a little bitter, but getting rid of that pesky "Exhausted" debuff was well worth it. With no enemy in sight, I could safely activate Meditation and restore some precious MP.
We've been on the run for about two hours. A rainstorm sweeps over the landscape, covering the Plegian wasteland with much-needed water.
"Hurry!" Basilio shouts from the front. "There should be carriages waiting just through the ravine!"
"You'll be safe soon, Emm. It's just a bit further." Chrom reassures Emmeryn. Or…maybe he's just reassuring himself that his elder sister is sort of safe and sound with us.
"I'm fine Chrom." Emmeryn replies in kind. "We will make it back to Regna Ferox, I am sure of it."
"Quickly, we're almost-" Basilio skids to a halt, much to everyone's confusion. "Huh? Oh, great."
I lift my eyes and spot what I should've expected for a long time – Mustafa's platoon.
Quest alert:
Main quest: Tears of war
With Gangrel's troops hot on your heels, you have every intention of leaving Plegia ASAP. There's just one problem standing between you and that goal; a problem in the form of General Mustafa. As much as you respect the guy, you realize trying to talk it out with him will only pincer you between two enemy armies. You have to break through at all costs, or you'll end up in Gangrel's clutches.
Objective: Defeat Mustafa
Rewards: 10 000 EXP, 10 000 gold
Bonus objective: ?
Bonus rewards: 5 000 EXP, 5 000 gold
Failure: You get captured as prisoners of war. Gangrel still gets his planned execution, just a few hours behind schedule.
"Ylisseans!" the Plegian general calls to us from the other side of the ravine. "I offer you mercy! Surrender to me now and live!"
"Surrender? Sorry, I'm not familiar with the word." Basilio replies.
"Do not be foolish!" Mustafa shouts back with a clear edge in his voice. "Even as we speak, King Gangrel himself leads his army towards your rear. If you do not submit peacefully, we will use force."
Chrom steps forward scowling. "You think we would surrender with Gangrel on our heels?! The dastard would kill us on the spot the moment he sees an opportunity!"
"I will not have you speak ill of my king, boy!" Mustafa growls. "If you refuse to surrender, you will have no mercy. Men! Leave no ylissean alive!"
"Enough!" Emmreyn shouts.
*FWOOM!*
Holy cr-p! Emmeryn's practically erupting with light! The shining pillar emanating from her is so big that it reaches the clouds and freakin' disperses them, clearing the sky in seconds! This is the peace-loving exalt of Ylisse?!
"Soldiers of Plegia!" Emmeryn calls as she steps to the front. "Time and again I have reached out my hands and offered peace between our countries. For years, I have pleaded that we let go of the grudges of old to prevent the tragedies of the last war from repeating themselves. Yet every time, you refuse my pleas, and instead answer by pillaging my people and razing villages to the ground! No more! I shall no longer stand by idly as innocents suffer because you refuse to have peace! Phila, my tome!"
Phila pulls a tome from…somewhere (?) and places it in Emmeryn's waiting hand. Hold on. What kind of tome is that?
Ivaldi, Tome, Legendary
One of the sacred twin weapons of the theocracy of Rausten and originally wielded by its founder, Saint Latona. The sacred writing within the pages have the power to annihilate creatures of the darkness like snow in the sunlight. Ivaldi was sealed away and guarded in Rausten in the event that the demon king Fomortiis would rise once more. Its fate, as well of the fate of its corresponding twin weapon, remains unknown beyond the era of the Sacred Stones.
All light-element spells deal 40 % more damage. If the target is an undead, the damage increases by another 250 %. All physical damage received is reduced by 10 %. The cost of all light-element spells is reduced by 12 %.
Available skills when wielded: Ivaldi
Requirement to wield: Light mastery Lvl 75
Holy- How in the world did Emmeryn get her hands on THAT?!
BGM: That person's name is…, Bravely Default music
"I am Emmeryn, 34th exalt of the halidom of Ylisse. In line of the duty that has been passed down to me by my predecessor, I shall protect the people of Ylisse with all my might until her enemies are slain or surrender. Soldiers of Plegia! I give you one last warning; let us through without bloodshed, or I shall bring down the wrath of the exalts on you all!"
The Plegian side backs off in shock at Emmeryn's sudden change in demeanor. Gone is the kind, peace loving queen, and in her place, a resolute war commander stands tall, ready to strike down anyone who opposes her.
Mustafa eventually regains his wits and settles in a battle stance. "It's regrettable, but you leave me no choice, Exalt Emmeryn. Men! Form up!"
As the Plegian soldiers get ready for battle, Emmeryn turns around to address the rest of us.
"Shepherds! Warriors of Regna Ferox! In our way stands an enemy that refuses to let us pass. Go forth, and strike them down. There will be no mercy! There will be no quarter! Our battle does not stop until our path forward is cleared. Soldiers! Move out!"
"Yes, Your Grace!" we shout as we all (minus Flavia and Basilio) kneel in sync. Dang, Emmeryn makes for one frightening field commander!
Before we can get up and prepare to charge, however, Emmeryn turns back to the frontlines and raises her hand towards the sky. Motes of light gather in her open palm as she begins chanting.
Sacred light residing in the heavens above.
Shine your brilliance onto this battlefield
and smite the wicked from beyond the horizon!
Purge!
The orb of light in her hand shoots up into the sky before it splits into dozens of streaks that rain down on the Plegian side. Flashes of light-element magic explode among their ranks and scatters or outright kills anyone unfortunate enough to be in the blast radius. That's our cue.
Chrom draws Falchion. "Charge!"
And so we do. The plegians answer in kind as they notice our approach. As we close in, I spin up a Rasengan in each hand and leap into the air. I bring down the spheres with a battle cry.
*BOOM!*
My opening blow smashes a hole in their ranks, allowing Sully and Stahl to spearhead our offensive. Panne runs into the fray shortly afterwards with Frederick on her tail. I myself draw my Windcleaver and slash at any plegian I see (except for Tharja).
Slash, duck, slash, parry, jump, block, Telekinesis, hitch a ride on Sully's horse, windblade, Rasengan!
*Boom!*
Dang, I'm on fire! I don't remember performing this well in the last battle. What happened?
Wait, when did I get a new status condition?
Rally spectrum, Status condition
Under the firm guidance of a charismatic leader, your morale skyrockets and inspires you to outperform yourself. You are many, and you are one. The force of a true army is never to be underestimated. With your comrades at your side, you find strength greater than if you fight alone. Truly, a good leader can draw strength from their followers in peculiar, but effective, ways.
All stats increase by 20 % while this status condition is active.
Did Emmeryn's rallying speech do that? Hot d-mn, she's good!
A few Plegian soldiers try to flank me in the midst of the frenzied battlefield. Their approach reaches an abrupt end as they're sent flying from a vicious blow from behind them. A familiar blue cape swishes as the blade of Parallel Falchion cuts the air.
I quickly stand back-to-back against Lucina.
"Took you long enough!"
"My apologies, Master." the Ylissean princess replies. "Traveling to Plegia was more difficult than I anticipated."
I parry an axe from a Barbarian before I kick him in the stomach and finish him off with a windblade. "Well, better late than never, I suppose. And look; Emmeryn's alive and kicking!"
Through Mind's eye, I see Lucina smile. "So I see. At long last, the course of history has been averted."
I shake my head. "Don't bet on it. We still have to survive this battle. Can I count on your support?"
Lucina nods resolutely. "Always. I came here to change the future, and I will not rest before the exalt's survival is assured!"
"Then let's go!"
We both dash back into the fray, our swords slashing through the Plegian ranks with extreme prejudice.
I notice Tharja raining down unholy vengeance on her former compatriots with a happy smile on her face. While that's nothing new per se, the fact that Gaius is in the middle of it and dodging the dark spells while slicing through plegians at his own frantic pace raises my eyebrows. I'm not sure if that counts as teamwork, but they're doing a terrific job at tearing their opponents to shreds.
Not far away, Lon'qu's teamed up with Vaike against a few Soldiers and Fighters. Between Lon'qu's blindingly fast slashes and Vaike's brutal axe swings, the two make an effective team. Something similar can be said about Gregor and Nowi tag-teaming a Dark Mage. What Nowi lacks in grace, Gregor can compensate for with unexpected moves. And what the old Mercenary lacks in raw power, Nowi covers for with dragon fire.
Some distance ahead of me and Lucina, I notice Ricken and Maribelle stuck in a circle of plegians. While this would normally be terrible odds to fight in, they're holding up astoundingly well between Ricken casting a veritable wall of spells, Maribelle's parasol-fu and…how the heck is L'Arachel this good at fighting? The horse thrashes around like crazy, sending plegians flying with precise hoof kicks. The fact that the horse does that in perfect tandem with Maribelle's martial arts paints a surreal picture. For crying out loud, Maribelle! Stop breaking the game!
*Screech!*
I look up and notice Sumia and Cordelia fighting for dominance in the sky against some Wyvern Riders. Good thing they're assisted by Phila and her unit. They have things under control, but I might be able to shift the tide in our favor.
"Sumia!"
The brunette looks in my direction and breaks off an attack charge against a Wyvern Rider. The plegian soon follows suit. As Sumia reaches ground level, I sprint towards her. We're just a few paces apart when I jump over her and set my sights on the incoming Wyvern Rider. He readies a swing, only to be forced to block as I send a windblade his way. That short moment costs him as I get close enough to drop-kick him off his wyvern. The now master-less mount flaps in confusion before I jump on its back and assume command.
Huh- Whoa! The wyvern does not approve.
"Rgh! Quit struggling, you overgrown lizard! I'm in charge here!"
I eventually make the wyvern obey me – with great reluctance. Alright, time to try my hand at some mounted aerial combat.
I turn and steer my newly acquired mount skywards into the fray between Mustafa's Wyvern Riders and Phila's Pegasus Knights. The plegians don't suspect a thing until they realize I'm not from their side. Too bad!
*Shing!* "Aauugh!"
A clean slash from my Windcleaver sends my first airborne victim plummeting to the unforgiving ground. I notice Phila fly to me while keeping a wary eye for any plegians trying their luck.
"You never told me you can fly a wyvern!" the Falcon Knight remarks.
"That's because this is my first time flying one!" I reply. "Still getting- Hey, quit squirming! Still getting used to this bad boy!"
Phila looks at me skeptically. "Be careful. Wyverns may be strong mounts, but they can be very vicious if treated poorly."
I shrug. "It's not like I'm taking up wyvern riding anytime soon. It's a temporary thing at best."
*Screech!*
More plegians coming in, and they look pissed. Must be because I snagged the wyvern of one of their buddies and used said wyvern to fly up and kill their other buddy. Tough luck, mooks! I'm not done yet!
I glance at Phila. "Shall we?"
The Falcon Knight nods. "Let's."
We join the fray in the sky, making the tumultuous battle get even crazier. Phila shows why she's the wing commander of Ylisse's Pegasus Knights as she weaves and sweeps through the Plegian ranks like a swallow, all while she impales Wyvern Riders left and right with her Silver Lance. I'm in my own little air space, flying around with awkward and erratic maneuvers while I send windblades at any plegian in range. The only reason I haven't been knocked off my own wyvern at this point is because I'm working Mind's eye at overdrive. It's chaotic enough keeping track of everything happening on a horizontal plane when fighting on the ground. In the air? I have to keep track of everything happening vertically too! Having omnidirectional sight makes this much easier.
*Schree-*
"Enough already!" I shout as I jump from my wyvern and slam a Rasengan into the chest of the rider. Both rider and mount are sent towards the ground with the force of a cannon shot.
As I Gale step back to my wyvern, I notice that the number of plegians in the sky is significantly smaller, while our side has suffered a few casualties at best.
"Jack, we can handle the rest from here!" Phila shouts to me. "Hurry to Her Grace's side! Keep her safe!"
I nod in her direction. "On it! Yah!"
I scan the battlefield while trying to at least fly in a straight line. I first thought I'd find Emmeryn somewhere close to where most of the Shepherds are, but I notice a distinct lack of light magic where I can see Robin and company clashing against Mustafa's foot soldiers. Where-
There! What the- When did Emmeryn break through to Mustafa?! Lady! Charging the enemy commander while he still has plenty of soldiers left in his command is not a good strategy! It's a good thing Chrom and Lissa joined her, or Emmeryn might've gotten captured again at this point. Gotta go fast!
Chrom's holding his own well enough against the half dozen or so plegians teaming up on him. Emmeryn's engaging Mustafa one-on-one. Every time I see the Plegian Berserker swing his war axe, my heart skips a beat while Emmeryn deflects it with a quick light spell. Neither is gaining any ground, but if Emmeryn keeps this up, she'll run out of MP!
First order of business, however, is Lissa. She's…actually holding her own, all things considered. The Barbarian trying to catch her has a hard time succeeding as the Cleric keeps dodging his swings and counters with blows against his feet and shins. Things look well until a Soldier sneaks in from behind, ready to spear her. Oh no, you don't!
"Lissa, get down!"
Lissa looks up and her eyes widen in alarm as she spots me riding towards her on top of a wyvern at breakneck speeds. The princess hits the ground as I crash the wyvern into the Barbarian and use the flying reptile as a springboard to launch myself at the surprised Soldier.
*Shink!* "Guhah!"
Bullseye!
I rip my Windcleaver from the Soldier's chest and turn to Lissa.
"You okay?"
Lissa looks at the Soldier and nods her head shakily as she realizes how close she was to getting impaled.
"Thanks for the save, Jack."
"Huryah!" *Boom!*
We turn our heads to see Chrom send his adversaries flying with a brutal downward swing. Is it just me, or is his swordplay even fiercer than usual? Oh, right. Rally spectrum.
"Chrom!"
The prince turns in my direction and spots me together with Lissa.
"Jack? Are you here to help us?"
I nod. "Phila asked me to help your sister. She may be powerful, but I doubt she can take that Plegian general on her own without suffering grave wounds."
Chrom scowls in the direction where the exalt fights against Mustafa. While neither have gotten a decisive blow in, they're both getting winded from the intense battle. Bad news: Emmeryn looks worse off.
"General Mustafa needs aid! Hurry!"
More bad news: some of the plegians have noticed the one-on-one as well and now rush in to help Mustafa.
I get between the royal siblings and the approaching soldiers and crouch into a fighting stance.
"You two help your sister. I'll hold these guys off."
Lissa looks like she's about to protest when Chrom beats her to the answer. "All right. Be careful Jack. Let's go help Emm, Lissa!"
Lissa throws a worried glance in my direction before following her brother. By now, the plegians have almost reached me. I channel mana through my Windcleaver until the air whips around me from the gusts flowing from the blade.
"YOU SHALL NOT PASS!" I scream and swing my Windcleaver with all my strength.
*SHING!*
My swing fires a massive windblade that cleaves all the plegians in half before they can respond. I release the breath I didn't know I was holding and wince upon seeing my MP nearly at zero again. That was close! Please let this battle be over soon!
I turn back towards the battle against Mustafa and marvel at the teamwork between the three royal siblings. Chrom takes the front with fierce melee combat. Emmeryn backs him up with strategic light spells. And Lissa constantly adjusts her position on the battlefield while healing any wounds her older siblings suffer with her staff. Hey, I didn't know Lissa could cast Physic yet! She must've trained hard on her own time.
Their teamwork finally pays off as Mustafa stumbles back from trying to parry a stab from Chrom. Upon seeing the opening, Chrom turns to Emmeryn.
"Emm!"
Emmeryn places her free hand right on the pages of her tome as the light around her grows brighter.
"I tried to warn you!"
The exalt thrusts her hand towards Mustafa and engulfs him in a light spell that quickly collapses on itself before it explodes in a brilliant lightshow.
*Boom!*
"Lissa!"
"You asked for it!"
The Cleric runs up to the stunned Mustafa and spins her staff. As she reaches striking distance, that spinning turns into a dizzying assault of staff blows that rain on Mustafa's head, arms and torso from all manner of directions. Just as it looks like she's done, Lissa throws her staff up into the air, grabs Mustafa's left arm, reverses their positions and slams a surprisingly hard right hook in his face. For crying out loud, Lissa! Stop breaking the game alongside Maribelle!
As Lissa catches her staff again, she turns to her brother.
"Chrom!"
The prince in question is already in a stance, with Mustafa placed at the perfect distance from him.
"Now I'm angry!"
Chrom rushes in and delivers a flurry of slashes that end with a stab that goes clean through Mustafa's heart.
BGM ends
Mustafa coughs up some blood before gazing at the royal siblings.
"Well done, ylisseans…" the Plegian general wheezes. "Hrrggh! Please…spare my men…"
Um, about that, Mustafa… We kinda killed the majority, if not all, of them during the battle…
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 1!
Chrom has leveled up!
There are times I wish this battle could be won without killing anybody. Poor guy had his hands tied in the canon story, forcing both him and his men to fight you, despite nobody actually wanting to. Come to think of it, the fact that this is the only map in the main story that has rain, as well as a unique soundtrack during the story mission, reflects on how much Mustafa stood out. It almost feels poetic. Like heaven itself weeps over the tragedy that all wars represent. There's no glory in fighting a war, only survival.
I walk up to the downed Berserker and kneel.
"For what it's worth, I'm sorry. We ended up killing your men in the process of fighting you."
I place a hand on his shoulder. "Had things been different, you could've become a trusted ally. The world's been robbed of an honorable man today. But please, don't let that burden you." I gently place a hand over his eyes and shut them. "Rest in peace, General Mustafa. You've earned it."
Lissa approaches me tentatively. "Do you really think so, Jack? Do you think we could've solved this without killing him?"
I rise back up and face the princess. "I'd like to think that, Lissa. But chances are, it's wishful thinking at best. War is a tragic thing. I doubt there's anyone who actually wants war, yet people have resorted to it time and again for all manner of reasons, simply because they refuse to look beyond their own standpoint. There are those who try to make war sound like some glorious undertaking or an honor in service of your home." I shake my head at that. "But in the end, war is nothing more than killing on an immense scale. It's a grueling clash to see who remains standing when it's all over. It's never about who is right. Only who is left."
Explaining a deep subject for another person has increased your WIS by 1!
"He's right, Lissa." Emmeryn interjects. "Take a good look on what remains of this battlefield. Remember the broken weapons, the broken armor, and the broken men. This is what war means."
Lissa's face grows in horror the more her gaze sweeps the field. By the end, she puts a hand over her mouth as tears threaten to spill from her eyes.
"This is horrible!" she exclaims. "Why would anyone want this?"
Emmeryn pulls her sister into a hug, allowing Lissa to weep in the exalt's gentle embrace.
"There are those who never realize how truly awful war is until they experience it for themselves. Or worse, there are those who relish in it." Emmeryn scowls at no one in particular. "Gangrel is one of those people. That is why we cannot allow this war to go on any longer. I will protect Ylisse from this horror – with my life, if need be."
"No, you're not." Chrom protests with a matching scowl. "If there's anyone we need to keep any semblance of peace, it's you, Emm. I refuse to let you sacrifice yourself for the sake of peace. If the opportunity comes, I'll take your place instead. Better me than you or Lissa."
"No!" Lissa shouts from her sister's arms. "Neither of you will sacrifice yourselves! We all promised that we would endure any hardship together! I'd rather… I'd rather give up my station as princess before I see either of you sacrifice your lives!" The tears flow freely from Lissas's eyes at this point. "We promised to stay together, for each other! We PROMISED!"
Emmeryn and Chrom look down in shame before looking at their younger sister again.
"And we will stay together, love." Emmeryn assures her gently.
"And there's nothing in the world that will tear us apart – ever." Chrom adds resolutely.
"Uh… Should we give you three some space, Blue?" I hear Gaius ask.
The four of us turn in the direction of the voice to see that the rest have finally caught up with us. They're a bit scruffed up, some cradle their arms gingerly, but all the Shepherds are very much alive and accounted for. Phila's unit and the feroxi, on the other hand, seem to be a bit fewer than I remember.
Drat! I know it's pretty much inevitable in a conflict of this scale, but losing allies like this feels terrible, more so for the respective units. Here's to hope that their leaders know some good ways to grieve their fallen comrades.
"Khan Basilio!"
We look in the northern direction of the valley and spot a woman running towards us.
"Olivia! I'm sorry we kept you waiting." Basilio replies.
"When I didn't hear from you, I thought…" the Dancer wrings her hands anxiously. "I assumed the worst."
The bald khan waves off her concerns with a reassuring smile before addressing our prince and Tactician, respectively.
"Chrom? Robin? Meet Olivia. She'll be smuggling us out of here."
"Only if you hurry!" Olivia adds. "Doubtless more of the Mad King's men are on their way."
Basilio nods. "Right. Pile in, you lot! And bid farewell to this Plegian hellhole."
It takes some time to get every Shepherd, every Pegasus Knight (plus Phila) and every Feroxi soldier into the wagons, but we manage to find space eventually. The fact that no wagon got cramped means Basilio must've planned for a group at least our size to make it out of Plegia before we even started marching. Dude, was this guy a Tactician back in his day?
"Ready?" Olivia asks from the lead wagon. "Hold on tight! Yah!"
With a snap of the reins, our wagon rolls off towards Ferox.
Quest alert:
Main quest: Tears of war
It was a long and arduous journey, but your first visit to Plegia has finally come to an end. It's a shame you had to kill Mustafa to get through. Judging from what you've seen in Plegia, the guy seemed a lot more honorable than his average compatriot. Yet another reason to bring this war to an end. But until then, rest and recuperate.
Objective: Defeat Mustafa.
Objective cleared!
Rewards: You gain 10 000 EXP! You gain 10 000 gold!
Bonus objective: Win without killing any of Mustafa's men.
Bonus objective failed!
Phew. Looks like we can finally relax.
I lean back against a crate in the wagon that I'm seated in. Curiously enough, I ended up in the same wagon as the royal siblings, the khans and Robin. The fact that Emmeryn, Chrom and Lissa are huddled together isn't missed by any of us. Considering how stressful this whole affair has been for them on an emotional level, the best would be to give them some space.
"Goodness, but leading an army in battle is tiring." Emmeryn sighs exhausted. "Chrom, how do you keep leading the Shepherds through one mission after another and return without looking any worse for the wear?"
Chrom shrugs. "I think it's a matter of experience. You get used to it in time. I'd say that was a good first time commanding an army in battle, especially since you yourself fought against a veteran warrior. It also helps that Frederick's training is so thorough. Without that, I would've grown exhausted even before half the battle was over."
Emmeryn places a finger on her chin in thought. "Perhaps I should join you whenever Frederick leads training, then. I could certainly use some physical exercises if I am to take the field again in the future."
Lissa blanches at the suggestion. "Uh, maybe training with Frederick might not be the best idea for you, Emm. Why not try training with, say, Phila instead?" Lissa tries with way too much enthusiasm. "Yeah, try Phila! She knows you better than Frederick! Besides, you're already familiar with how to handle a pegasus."
[Fun fact: Emmeryn can re-class into a Pegasus Knight.]
Emmeryn thinks it over before she nods. "A wonderful idea. Thank you for your advice, Lissa."
The Cleric sighs in obvious relief. "I just don't want you to die, Sis."
Emmeryn tilts her head in confusion, but decides to drop the matter.
"Right." Basilio grunts while making himself comfortable against a sack of wheat. "Now that we're out of the woods, I think it's time we addressed the ox in the room."
I suddenly feel everyone's eyes on me. I look around in confusion and point at myself.
"Yes, you." Basilio confirms. "I've seen a lot in my years, boy, but what you've pulled ever since I first laid eyes on you is unlike anything I've ever thought possible. And believe me, if you want to grow as old and handsome as me, you've gotta keep your mind open."
"It's not just Khan Basilio, Jack." Chrom adds. "You've already told us you have strange abilities, but what you did to stop those Risen back in Plegia shouldn't even be possible. What did you do?"
I scratch the back of my head. Sigh. I guess it was only a matter of time before the cat got out of the bag. Now, what's the best way to explain my Gamer powers to people who don't even know what a game console is?
"It's kind of a long story, Chrom." I eventually answer. "Honestly, I think I want all Shepherds present for when I explain this. They've all fought by my side ever since you invited me and Robin to join, so I think it's only fair that they get to know the truth as well. But I will tell the truth. You've earned that much."
Chrom looks like he's about to protest, when Robin speaks up.
"Chrom, I think we should let Jack tell us when he feels ready. Pushing him into telling us could hurt the trust we've built with him."
I smile at the Tactician. "Thank you, Robin. Thank you for believing in me."
Robin smiles back. "I think it's only fair. You told me you'll support me every step of the way. This is my way of returning the favor."
How this woman manages to put my own principles into practice in her own way is beyond my understanding, but d-mn, if it doesn't make her even more awesome than I thought she was already.
Chrom looks like he's about to protest again when he notices Lissa tug at his cape. He looks at his younger sister, only to see her shaking her head and point at Emmeryn (to the exalt's confusion). The prince sighs and turns back to me.
"All right, we'll wait with your explanation until we've returned to Ferox. You've proven yourself to be a trustworthy person, Jack, and I hope to see you continue to live up to that.
I nod in response. "I will, Chrom. That's a promise."
Your relationship with Robin has improved!
Your relationship with Chrom has improved!
Timeskip
The trip back to Regna Ferox was thankfully without any major incidents. We managed to return to the Feroxi capital, anyone injured was sent to the infirmaries at once, and everyone pretty much tried to settle down after our hectic, but successful, rescue operation.
We're currently gathered in the audience hall. Every Shepherd is here, save for one.
"Where's Libra?" Chrom asks while looking for the missing War Monk.
The effeminate man soon enters the hall, with Emmeryn in tow.
"My apologies for the delay, Prince Chrom." Libra begins. "I was busy assisting the priests and clerics in the infirmaries when I received word to come here. Her Grace was with me at the time, and decided to join me."
Chrom nods before he turns to me.
"All right, everyone's here, Jack. I think it's time you told us the truth. Is it all right for Emm to be here too?"
I nod. "Yeah. Considering she allowed me to stay in Ylisse while I was still a foreigner, I'd say she's earned my trust. Besides, it wouldn't be fair if only you and Lissa were in the know while she wasn't."
I take a deep breath as I gaze at the Shepherds. My allies, my comrades-in-arms. Some, I have known for what feels like years, while others, I've only met recently. Yet, for all intents and purposes, they're all part of a whole. If I'm going to reveal the truth of my origins to them, they all deserve to hear it, no matter how long or little we've known each other.
"If I'm going to explain my powers to you all, I think it best if I explained where I originally come from. In fact, some of you have already noticed signs that indicate that I'm not from around here, by any stretch of the word."
Panne and Tharja nod at this. Nowi looks down in contemplation before she hits her fist in her free palm.
"To put it as simply as possible, I'm an Outrealmer." I explain.
"A what?" Vaike asks confused.
Miriel, on the other hand, looks like her mind just got blown.
"AN OUTREALMER?!" the Mage shouts and shocks the rest of the Shepherds.
"Miriel, you know what those are?" Ricken asks.
Miriel adjusts her glasses (probably more out of nerves than actual positioning).
"For a long time, scholars have hypothesized about the existence of other worlds, inhabited by living creatures very much like ours, yet separate from our own world. These worlds were named "Outrealms", since they supposedly exist outside of our own realm. However, evidence that prove the existence of such worlds has always been scarce, and there has yet to be any reliable method to find whether these worlds even exist. A few accounts on people from various lands speaking with individuals claiming to be from another world have circulated among scholars for a long time, but the lack of substantiality has made these accounts deemed nothing but rumors."
I nod. "The scholars of this world are a lot closer to the truth than they might think. I myself am live proof that the Outrealms exist. I originally come from another world. One day, I found myself waking up in a field in Ylisse, with no memory of how I came here in the first place." I direct my gaze towards our Tactician. "That was the day I met Robin."
Robin looks at me surprised. "Me?"
"Yes. In fact, you were the very first person I met in this world. Completely by accident, at that."
"So, you're from another world." Flavia concludes. "How exactly does that tie in to your strange abilities?"
I scratch my head. "Well, here's where things get strange. The truth is, I'm not even sure how I got these powers to begin with. A short time after waking up, I discovered that they were just…there. I can't think of a better explanation."
"Huh? If you don't even know how you got them, how did you even know how to use them?" Lissa asks.
"Well, there's an old legend in the world I come from. It tells of a young man who one day woke up with the ability to see the world in a perspective that was fundamentally different from how normal people see it. He saw most of the world in…numbers. As time went on, he discovered that it wasn't just his eyes. His entire body, and his very existence, had changed to the point that everything he did was interpreted as part of a set of principles not unlike those in a game. A very complex game. When I discovered my powers, I quickly realized that they were very much like those spoken of in the legends."
"Hold on!" Stahl interrupts. "You can't just expect us to believe you came from another world and woke up with some kind of legendary power. That sounds more like a fairytale than a true story."
I shake my head. "Believe me, Stahl. Had I not seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it either. Yet all evidence pointed towards this very conclusion."
"So, out with it!" Maribelle exclaims impatiently. "How does that power of yours even work?"
"I think even I don't know the full extent of my own powers, Maribelle. Based on what I learned from the legend, every action I take can be turned into a skill for me to use, like how Mages learn to cast spells and perform a variety of other abilities with the assistance of mana." I answer the Troubadour.
I hold up my left hand and Trace a small buckler. "Like my ability to recreate any weapon I've seen, for example. So long as I know how a certain ability works, my powers could probably create it for me. That's how I gained this particular ability. I had already learned how to glean information from anything I see. I combined that with channeling mana through this buckler. That allowed me to understand how it was made. After that, I simply had to recreate that very object in my mind and channel my mana into its shape."
"But what about when you defeated all those Risen?" Chrom presses. "One moment you shout something strange while they were about to shoot down Phila and her pegasus knights. The next thing we know, they all disappear and you fall to your knees in exhaustion. What in the world did you do, Jack?"
"That…" I begin hesitantly. "…was me stopping the flow of time."
Everyone looks at me like I just grew a second head.
"You…can stop time…" Basilio reiterates blankly. "I don't buy it."
"No offense, Buttercup, but I think none of us would believe you unless you did something that, somehow, proves you're telling the truth."
Gaius brings up a good point. What can I do to prove I can indeed stop time?
…
I think I know.
"How about a demonstration?" I ask the Thief.
"Go on, I'm listening." Gaius replies.
"It's simple. Toss a coin and try to tell which side it will land on."
Gaius shrugs and pulls out a coin. "Heads." the Thief calls and flips the round gold piece into the air.
"Za Warudo." I mutter as the coin returns down. Time stops flowing within the audience hall. I walk up to the coin and gently place it on its side on the floor before I return to my previous position. "And time moves once again."
The Shepherds blink as they expected the sound of a coin that hit the floor, only to hear nothing.
"And there you have it." I tell everyone as I indicate the coin on the floor.
"What the h-ll?!" Sully exclaims surprised.
"The coin…landed on its side?" Vaike asks confused. "Is that even possible?"
"I think I get it." Nowi interjects. "You wanted a situation that you could only explain by stopping time. That's why you asked Gaius to flip a coin."
"Exactly." I answer Nowi. "Flipping a coin pretty much always results in it landing on either heads or tails. On the side, however? That's only possible by placing the coin on the ground directly in that very position. I assume none of you saw me do that. That's because I did it after I stopped time. Of course, I returned to where I first stood before letting time flow again, to hide the fact that I moved at all."
Instead of looking at me like I'm crazy, everyone now looks at me in awe, fear, or a combination of both. Except for Miriel and Tharja. The former looks like she wants to strap me to a metal table and conduct whatever experiment she can think of. And the latter…looks like she wants to jump me in the nearest bedchamber.
"Jack… Why didn't you tell us you had these powers all along?" Chrom asks.
"While I had yet to earn your trust?" I counter. I shake my head. "No offense, Chrom, but I'm not stupid. Even after everything we've been through, you clearly had a hard time believing me when I explained my origins and my powers. You all did. How would you have reacted if I told you on the day we met? Think me a liar? Throw me into a madhouse? I couldn't risk revealing the truth so early on. I had hoped to keep the truth hidden for a while longer, but recent events more or less forced my hand."
Chrom looks like he wants to protest, but holds his tongue. Only a few actually meet my eyes.
"Friend can stop time anytime he wishes, yes?" Gregor eventually asks.
I nod. "Yes, but halting the flow of time is a tiring ability. Just the simple act where I stopped time to place the coin in a practically impossible position drained more of my mana than almost any other skill I have gained through my powers. Using this ability thoughtlessly is a surefire way to exhaust my mana and leave me vulnerable."
"So, there you have it." I conclude. "I'm an Outrealmer with otherworldly powers."
The hall falls silent at my declaration. The Shepherds look unsure about how to respond to the proverbial bombshell I just dropped. That is, until Lon'qu walks up and places a hand on my shoulder.
"It matters little where you come from or what powers you possess. I accepted you as my rival on the grounds as a warrior, and that has not changed." the Myrmidon declares. "Just don't use your powers as an excuse to neglect your sword training."
I roll my eyes. "Would you believe me if I told you my powers affected the way I learned how to swing a sword? It's honestly ridiculous how much they influence in my life, but that's the hand I'm dealt. I just hope you don't hold it against me."
Lon'qu shakes his head. "I don't. If I did, I would've told you. This simply means I have to train harder to keep up with you." A small smile grows on his lips. "A challenge I'll gladly accept."
I match the smile. "Thank you, Lon'qu. And, for the record, I still think you're the better swordsman between the two of us."
Your relationship with Lon'qu has improved!
Our conversation seems to have broken the ice, as the other Shepherds gradually show the same amount of acceptance as before again. This was what I was the most nervous about when revealing the truth – getting ostracized. Seeing everyone truly accept me for who I am, now that everything is out in the open, is an unimaginable weight off my chest.
We're soon dismissed and free to go about as we please while Emmeryn and the khans will discuss how to proceed against Gangrel. I've just managed to leave the audience hall when I feel a hand clamp on my shoulder. I turn around and spot Flavia.
"Jack, do you have a moment?" the reigning khan asks.
I shrug. "Sure. Take your time."
We relocate to an empty room. Flavia shuts the door and, oddly enough, leans against it.
"So, what did you want to talk about, Khan Flavia?" I ask her.
"It's something that's been on my mind ever since your first visit here in Regna Ferox. It concerns you…and that silver-haired tactician of yours." Flavia explains.
I raise an eyebrow. "Robin? What does she have to do with this?"
Flavia smiles wryly. "I may not be married myself, but I can tell when two people love each other, Jack. And I've seen the looks passing between the two of you. Ever since the walk to the tournament where you made me the reigning khan, you and Robin have acted like you're a couple. Imagine my surprise when I found out you aren't."
Sigh. This again?
"Look, Khan Flavia. As much as Robin and I mean to each other, we're friends. Nothing more. Dear friends, granted, but that's as far it goes. It's mostly since Robin was the first person I met when I came to this world, and I'm the first person Robin remembers meeting after she lost her memory."
Flavia scowls at my answer. "I've met dense men before, Chrom being chief among them, but I didn't expect you to be such a bad case, Jack. Listen, I'll put this as bluntly as I can. You love Robin. She most likely loves you back. You've got it bad for her. You're just too dense to realize it. Don't let that stop you from finding happiness. A woman like Robin only appears once in a blue moon. You'd better talk it out with her before someone else snatches her away, or you'll spend the rest of your life regretting it."
Why is she so pushy on this matter? You would think I would've noticed by now whether I really love Ro-
Ace Attorney-style flashback
That's when I saw her. Lustrous, silky hair colored the purest silver with two hair clips on the sides keeping the bangs out of her eyes. A face whose beauty could never be fully captured by any picture, be it painted or photographed. A body that was mostly covered by a thick black coat with purple accents (though my more hormonal side noted that it wasn't enough to completely hide the distinctly feminine figure underneath).
Don't think about it. Don't think about it! Don't you freakin' think about it!
…
Her moan was cute…
Naga d-mn it!
Robin smiled back. "Now I'm the one who thinks you're selling yourself short, Jack. You started out as a total novice at combat when we met on that field, yet look at yourself now. You've survived two battles in a single day and emerged stronger from them, and you're even fighting alongside Chrom and the others to protect the people of Ylisse. You've already become an ally that I can rely on – both inside and outside of a battle."
She trusted me that much already? Gee… That made me feel happier than I thought…
"You think so?" I asked hesitantly.
Her smile widened. "Jack, I know so. You said that you have this feeling that you can trust me with your life. Well, I feel the same. You're the first person I can remember meeting, and the first thing you did was doing everything in your power to help me. How can I not trust someone like that?"
That brought a smile of my own to my face. "Thanks, Robin. I look forward to aiding you in any way I can in the future. Hopefully this'll be the start of a great friendship."
"My thoughts exactly, Jack."
"Yes! I finally did it!" the Tactician shouted to the world.
"Wow, Robin! That's incredible!" Lissa joined in.
"Cool! Now we can take snow walks together." I commented with a grin as I approached them.
Robin's smile turned coy. "Oh, just the two of us?"
"Er…" I don't know why, but I think my brain short-circuited.
Robin giggled. "Relax, Jack. I'm only teasing you."
"Oh…" was all I managed to say as everyone else walked past me. You know…I couldn't help but wonder what would've happened, had I said "yes".
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 was 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 woke 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!
Robin's laughter at my actions followed me as I walked through the corridors. That laughter simultaneously made me happy and made me want to crawl up in a hole somewhere and hope the ground swallowed me whole. That woman seemed to know exactly how to knock me off-kilter. Merciful Naga, what was WRONG with me?!
Your relationship with Robin has improved!
Not helping, Game!
Nowi then slipped out of my one-armed hug, much to my confusion.
"Well, wonderful as this was, I won't keep you any longer. You still want to spend time with your mate before going to sleep, right?"
I raised an eyebrow at the manakete. "Mate?"
"You know, the silver-haired woman with the big black coat."
"Oh, you mean Robin?" I waved off the thought. "Nah, she's just my friend. And a student of sorts since a while back."
Nowi tilted her head to the side in confusion. "Really? Because any time I see you look at each other, it almost looks like two mates interacting. I'm usually good at picking up on this kind of stuff, you know? Comes with living for over a thousand years."
I shook my head with a smile as I got up and looked to find Robin. Me and Robin, a couple? Sure, we're kinda close, but not that close. Right?
"I'm honored that you think of me that way, Jack. And truthfully, I feel something along those lines myself. You always seem to be there for me, no matter what happens. Even if we're not busy fighting a battle, having you nearby feels like I always have someone I can share my troubles with. I feel…safer with you around."
"And I'd be honored to keep it that way." I stretched my fist towards Robin. "I'll support you every step of the way, Robin. Not just as a fellow Shepherd, but also as your friend."
Robin accepted the fist bump. "And I'll do the same for you, Jack." Dang, I could spend all day looking at that smile.
…Where the heck did that thought come from?...
Flashback end
…Merciful mother of Mila…
SHE'S RIGHT!
Flavia smiles at me smugly. "About time you figured it out. Well, what happens from here is up to you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a campaign to plan for."
Flavia leaves the room and shuts the door after her while I still stand rooted at the spot.
Quest alert
Side quest: 'Til Game Over do us apart
You have realized you're in love (About time, you piece of osmium!). Naturally, the next step is finding out whether this is mutual with the object of your affections. And if not, maybe you can grow close to the point that she does return your feelings. Insecurities aside, you'd be better off telling her than not.
Objective: Get married
Rewards: 3 000 EXP, ?
Failure: Forever single. Forever alone.
I need to find Robin – fast!
It took some searching before I found the silver-haired Tactician. Strangely enough, I find her in the very room where I taught her the first step of the Rasengan. And like last time, she sits with a bucket filled with water and looks down in intense concentration.
*Plop*
A small mass of water barely clears the rim of the bucket before it falls back down and rejoins the rest. Robin lets out a breath as she drops her concentration.
"Looking good." I comment as I approach her.
Robin looks at me startled before she relaxes upon recognizing me.
"Oh, Jack. Did you see that?"
I nod with a smile. "Sure did. Considering how busy we've been recently, that's some impressive progress. You already have the basics down. Now it's only a matter of concentrating more mana into the burst."
Robin looks into the bucket with a frown and places it on the table before she rises up.
"That's going to be difficult, then. I concentrated as hard as I could back there, and the water hardly even splashed. Mastering this step will take a long time."
"Do you know how long it took for the Rasengan's creator to complete the technique?" I ask her.
Robin shakes her head. I hold up three fingers.
"According to the legend, it took him three years. One year for every step. Considering how far you've made it, I'm sure you'll get this down a lot faster than he did."
Robin smiles at that. "Thank you, Jack. I think I needed that bit of encouragement."
There it is. That smile reminds me of the real reason why I came to see her. All right, here goes nothing.
BGM: Gentle hands, Naruto Shippuden OST
"Actually, there's something else I want to talk to you about." I begin hesitantly.
"Oh? What's that?" Robin asks.
"It concerns…the two of us, Robin. Do you remember when I told you that you're one of my dearest friends?"
The Tactician smiles. "Yes. In Plegia, on the night before we rescued Emmeryn. Hearing you say that made me very happy. Why bring that up?"
"The thing is… Recently, I've come to understand just how much you mean to me, Robin." My cheeks turn red as I get ready to confess the feelings that I didn't even know I had until just a few minutes ago. "To put it bluntly, I think I've…fallen in love with you."
Robin's eyes grow wide. "What?! M-me? Since when?"
"I'm not sure when it started. Honestly, I think it began all the way back on the day when we met on that field in Ylisse. When I first laid eyes on you, something just seemed to…fall into place. Whatever it was, I think that's the reason why I felt I could trust you so much. As time went on, I think that feeling turned into love. I just didn't realize it until recently."
"I… Jack, I…" Robin mutters silently.
I avert my eyes in embarrassment. "*Sigh* Look, I understand if you don't feel the sammmp!"
Oh, wow… Her lips are really soft.
Wait, WHAT?! Hold the phone!
A new skill has been created through a special action! You gained "Kissing"!
Robin has the most radiant smile I've seen on her face as she steps back.
"Gods, I've wanted to hear you say that for so long."
"Wha- Bwuh…" Come on, brain, reboot!
Robin's cheeks turn a matching shade of red. "To be honest, I've felt the same for you for a long time, Jack."
"Huh?! Since when? I had no idea."
Robin averts her eyes shyly. "Like you, I felt a strong connection on the day we first met. Even when I had no memories, even when I felt completely lost, you always stayed by my side. The other Shepherds accepted me as a comrade, but you… With you, it always felt like something more – much more."
Her words overwhelm me to the point that I can hardly think straight. She returns my feelings… Is this what ecstasy feels like?
"It was only during our first trip here in Ferox that I found out why." Robin continues. "Somewhere along the road, I realized that I had fallen in love. No, more like I had become completely smitten with you. The way I see things, my life began with you. You've always been a part of my life, and I want it to stay that way."
A massive, dopey smile spreads over my lips.
"You love me back. This has to be the happiest day of my life…"
Robin takes a step forward and brings me into a hug.
"Will you share that happiness with me?" she asks with an affectionate smile.
I return the hug. "Anytime, anywhere."
Well, this wouldn't be a proper moment with Robin unless I gave a summarized confession to her. So I pull her closer into the hug and whisper the most heartfelt words I can think of.
"When I first came to this world, the last thing I expected was to find love. Yet, here you are, embracing me just as I am. Never before have I felt so happy about being proven wrong."
Your relationship with Robin has advanced! Your relationship with Robin is now "Lovers"!
BGM ends
Robin looks at me with a raised eyebrow (but with the smile still in place). "Wow. That has to be the cheesiest confession I've ever heard."
I grin back at her. "Hey, it's not cheesy if I'm honest. And believe me, I meant every word."
"I'm happy to hear that." Robin replies. Then her cheeks grow a bit redder. "Do you mind if…if we stay like this for a little longer?"
I gently place my forehead against hers. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
It's only a matter of time before our lips join in another kiss, this time full of mutual love. Again, I wouldn't have it any other way.
The two of us enter the mess hall to find the other Shepherds gathered there, save Chrom. Most of them are busy scarfing down meals. Looks like all that fighting burned a lot of calories.
"Ha! I knew you two were mates!"
Robin and I turn to the voice and find Nowi point at us triumphantly. Specifically, she's pointing at where our hands are linked together. I roll my eyes in good nature.
"Yes, yes, you were right all along, Nowi. Good on you."
The young manakete flashes a big smile before she darts off among the Feroxi soldiers in the hope of finding someone to play with. Not that she has much success.
"You two finally came around?" Sully asks. "About d-mn time!"
Robin and I look at the Cavalier with raised eyebrows.
"Wait, we were that obvious?" I ask.
"Indeed." Virion comments over a cup if tea (Where did he get that?). "Seeing you two dance around each other without recognizing your mutual feelings was simultaneously amusing and horrifically painful to watch. I could even go as far as to say, my friend, that you were the very last one to realize how much you love our brilliant tactician."
Sully nods in agreement. "Why do ya think Ruffles here never made a move on Robin? He could tell she wanted you, Jack."
I blink at that. Now that Sully mentions it, Virion did always keep a respectable measure of distance from Robin after the night when we met him. Guess I owe the Archer a lot more thanks than I first thought.
I turn to Robin. "Was I that bad?"
Robin shrugs. "In all honesty, you were, Jack. You even missed some of the signals I tried to send you." She leans in with a loving smile. "That means you owe me a lot of catch-up, mister."
I return the smile with my own. "That's a debt I'd love to pay back. Just name the place and time."
Frederick clears his throat. "*Ahem!* If you two lovebirds are done frolicking in your own little world, I would advise you save it until after you're married."
Robin leans back and shoots Frederick an annoyed glance. "Duly noted, Frederick."
The image of a pissed off tigress flashes across my vision. Weird…
"Well, the important part is that you two came around eventually." Ricken interjects happily. "Speaking of which, you're not the only couple that formed recently."
The little Mage stands up and proudly pulls Maribelle up with him.
"Everyone, Maribelle and I are getting married!"
"Really?" Stahl asks between a bowl of stew (out of ten) and a loaf of bread.
"It would seem further congratulations are in order." Miriel comments while adjusting her glasses smiling.
Lissa runs up and lifts Maribelle into the air with a hug.
"Oh, I'm so happy for you, Maribelle!" the Cleric gushes. "You and Ricken will make a wonderful couple, I just know it!"
"T-thank you…darling…" Maribelle wheezes out from within Lissa's embrace. Just how much force is Lissa putting into that hug?
It's this very festive mood that Chrom walks into together with Emmeryn, Flavia and Basilio.
"Did we miss something?" the prince asks.
"It was wonderful, Chrom!" Nowi shouts as she bounds towards him. "Ricken and Maribelle are getting married, and everyone's so happy about it. Oh, and Jack finally realized he loves Robin, so now they're a couple."
The khans grin in my direction. Flavia in particular gives me a thumbs-up, though it somehow feels more like an "I told you so."
Chrom raises an eyebrow. "Really? I had no idea they felt like that for each other."
Cordelia sighs. "Yes, Captian, they do." The Pegasus Knight looks away. "The only one here who's denser than Jack is you…" she mutters quietly.
Lissa glances between Chrom and Cordelia and shakes her head exasperated. "Gods, Chrom. Look at the pot calling the kettle black."
This only confuses the prince further. But before he can ask for details, Flavia steps forward.
"Listen, as much as I'd like to celebrate this romantic little moment, we've got some important news to share."
This puts everyone in the room on alert.
"We've decided to put an end to this d-mn war!" Flavia's smile grows savage at this point. "It's about time the Mad King had a dose of his own vulnerary."
Gaius raises an eyebrow. "By that, you mean…"
"We're bringing the fight to Gangrel." Chrom finishes with a scowl. "And this time, we end him for good!"
The morale in the room practically skyrockets. Determination lights up in the eyes of everyone present, even Nowi. Not that I'm excluding myself from the group or anything. I want that jerk dead as much as the next guy.
"Um, milord?" Olivia speaks up from somewhere close to the rear. Everyone directs their gazes towards her, which results in the shy Dancer to almost shrink in on herself.
"Yes…Olivia, was it?" Chrom replies.
Olivia walks to the front slowly. Poor girl's practically shaking like it's winter inside. Hm… What's the most effective therapy for anxiety disorders?
"I, um… I would like to join you in this battle. Her Grace did me a kindness once, and I'd like to fight for her cause as a way of saying thanks."
Emmeryn looks at the Dancer curiously before she gives her a radiant smile.
"Oh, I remember you. You are that young girl I met during one of my visits to Regna Ferox during the early years of my reign. It makes me happy to see you in good health."
Olivia's face turns beet-red as she bows at the waist.
"T-thank you, Your Grace. What you did for me all those years ago gave me the courage to become the dancer I am today." When she gets up from her bow, she pushes her index fingers together. "Not that I'm that skilled, yet."
Basilio guffaws at Olivia's answer. "Ba ha ha! Don't mind what she just said! If there's anything Olivia's better at than dancing, it's being modest. Her dancing is so mesmerizing, she's practically a national treasure here in Ferox! Her moves inspire soldiers to work twice as hard! Go on, Commander! She'll be a great asset for your troops."
Chrom looks at Basilio surprised. ""Commander"? What happened to "boy"?"
"You've earned your way up from that name, I think." the bald khan replies. "Now, where were we? Oh, yes! I was just about to start cracking skulls! Flavia will lead me and the other feroxi in a head-on assault. That should buy you enough time to take down Gangrel."
Basilio's face splits into another grin. "Hear that, boy? You get the fun part!"
Chrom raises an eyebrow. "I thought you weren't going to call me-"
"You and Robin have my every confidence." Basilio interrupts. "You're a born leader, and she has a knack for guiding troops to victory. You both have some growing to do yet, but I can already see you'll grow tall. H-ll, if all else fails, you've got Jack on your side! He's got more tricks up his sleeve than I thought possible."
"Thanks, Basilio."
The bald khan waves him off. "Alright, enough talk. It's time to raise some hell!"
Chrom nods in agreement, determined scowl on his face.
"Let's get to it then!" Basilio urges us. "Gangrel may try to exact revenge after we foiled his little execution plan."
"Let him try." Chrom responds confidently. "This time I'm ready to dethrone the Mad King, once and for all."
Then Chrom turns to the rest of us. "Shepherds, get ready to march! Equip yourselves with whatever you need and prepare for our greatest battle yet. Then meet up by the main gate. One way or another, this war ends now!"
"Yes, Captain Chrom!" is our collective response.
Before we go our separate ways, however, I'm reminded about one figure who's hardly spoken at all.
"And you, Your Grace?" I ask Emmeryn. "What about you?"
"I shall join Khan Flavia and Khan Basilio in their assault against Gangrel's main force. Phila and her pegasus knights shall accompany me in this battle." Emmeryn replies.
Lissa bites her lip upon hearing that.
"Will you be all right, Sis? It was bad enough when you fought in that last battle. The one you're going to will be much worse."
Phila steps up and slams her fist against her armored chest. "Fear not, Princess Lissa. I shall protect her Grace from any harm, even at the cost of my life."
"Let us hope it does not come to that." Emmeryn mutters tiredly.
"No plegian shall approach her so long as I draw breath." Phila continues undeterred. "You have my word, both as wing commander of the Ylissean pegasus knights and head of Her Grace's royal guard."
Lissa relaxes at the Falcon Knight's response. "Thank you, Phila. Please, stay close to Emm."
Phila nods. "Always."
It's been about half an hour since everyone went their separate ways to prepare for the incoming battle. I'm…honestly good. Aside from refilling my Concoction bottle, I already have all the weapons and gear I need before the final battle against Gangrel. I'm just wandering aimlessly through the halls at this point while trying to think up ways in how I can fight the Mad King. Hm… Since he's a Trickster, he's bound to be very mobile, not to mention unpredictable. The fact that he's crazy on top of that means aiming at him could become a headache unless I focus and match his speed.
"Ah, there you are. Just the man I was lookin' for." an elderly voice speaks.
I'm brought out of my thoughts as I notice a figure garbed in a brown cloak approach me. I raise an eyebrow.
"And you would be…?"
The figure huffs. "Hmph. Youngsters these days have no respect for their elders."
I look at the robed figure with a deadpan expression. In response, he raises his arms in a placating gesture.
"Fine, fine. If you insist."
The figure raises his cowl to reveal-
"Old man Hubba?" I ask surprised.
"I'll have ya know I'm still in my youthful 430's, sonny." the keeper of the Outrealm gate huffs.
"Why are you here?" I inquire. "I thought you were busy managing this world's Outrealm gate – wherever it's located."
Hubba shrugs. "Oh, I left Anna in charge of that for the time being. See, I was tasked with runnin' a few errands."
"Which are…?"
The old man smirks. "I don't know whatcha did before dropping into this world, sonny-boy, but you've gained some plentiful favor with the powers-that-be. See, residents of a world're normally not allowed to travel the Outrealms, what with all the hoo-ha that would result in such an event. Only a select few ever get the opportunity to travel outside their home world."
Hubba points at me. "You, Jack, have been deemed worthy of such an opportunity. Feel free to travel the many worlds existing alongside this one. I'm here to pass this message on to ya."
That throws me for a loop. "Me? How did that happen?"
"Oh, don't try to play dumb with me, boy. When waking up with powers like yours, there's bound to be some grand destiny for ya to fulfill down the road. Consider this offer as an invitation to a training trip of sorts. Trust me, you'll either learn a lot during your travels, or go insane. It's usually a combination of the two."
"You know about my powers?"
Hubba shakes his head exasperated. "You don't get to become keeper of an Outrealm gate without learnin' when stuff happens in the multiverse. The powers-that-be must've dumped almost every crazy idea they had into ya when yer new life started."
AN: Achoo!
Quest alert:
Side quest: Outrealm traveler
Hubba approaches you with the offer of a lifetime; you've been given the opportunity to travel the many worlds that exist parallel to this one. You can experience cultures very different from those of Fire Emblem, learn skills unheard of, discover places no one knew existed, and much more. Of course, whether you accept or not is up to you. Just make sure to keep your head screwed on tight. The Outrealms are a fascinating place, but there's bound to be some crazy stuff going on there too.
Objective: Travel the Outrealms
Rewards: 5 000 EXP, 1 000 gold
Well, why not?
"I think I'll take you up on that offer." I tell the elderly gatekeeper. "Though, would it be possible to postpone that trip until a later date? I'm kinda busy ending a war, and cleaning up afterwards is bound to take some time too."
Hubba smiles. "Sure thing. Take yer time. When you're ready, we'll know."
"And how do you do that?"
The old man chuckles. "That's for me to know, and you to find out."
Cheeky old man…
"Oh, by the way." Hubba continues. "That's not the only thing I came here for. I was asked to bring one of yer friends a present. Was told that she might like it. You might wanna see her."
With that, the old man puts his cowl back on and walks away. "See ya soon, sonny."
And then he just…vanishes. Not even Mind's eye can pick up on his presence. Did he just fade from existence? That was creepy.
My steps eventually take me to the armory. I quickly notice that I'm not alone.
"Cordelia?"
The red-headed Pegasus Knight turns away from sorting through some axes and faces me.
"Oh, Jack. Did you come to pick up a weapon for the upcoming battle?"
I shake my head. "No, I think I'm as ready for that as I can be. I'm mostly just wandering around and passing the time before we march. How are things on your-"
I stop cold in my tracks as I notice a weapon leaning against a few crates just beside Cordelia.
Gradivus, Polearm, Base damage: 150, Legendary
One of the three legendary regalia from the age of the Hero-King Marth. This spear is rumored to have been enchanted with the power of the divine dragons as it was forged. Those claims may be well founded, as it boasts immense striking power. What's more, the shaft continuously absorbs ambient mana that restores the lifeforce of the wielder when held, allowing them to fight far longer than they are normally capable of. Whoever wields Gradivus is said to become invincible.
Increases HPR by 250 % when wielded. Can be called back to the wielder's hand after it is thrown.
Requirement to wield: Polearm mastery Lvl 70
BGM: Armed and ready, RWBY OST
"Cordelia?" I ask breathlessly as I point at Gradivus. "How did that end up here?"
The Pegasus Knight picks up the legendary spear. "A robed figure came to me a little before you arrived and handed me this very weapon. Before I could ask any questions, he just left without a word."
Must've been Old man Hubba.
I place a hand on my chin. "If that's what I think it is, you're holding an immensely powerful weapon in your hand right now. This will be a great help in the battle against Gangrel."
Cordelia tightens her hold around the shaft. "It is indeed a powerful weapon, but am I truly worthy of wielding it?" she asks both herself and me.
A quick Observe on her shows that her polearm mastery sits at a whopping Lvl 73.
"I'd say you're skilled enough." I reply. "So, what's the issue?"
Cordelia shakes her head. "This is not a matter of skill." The Pegasus Knight begins shaking. "I ran from the battle that robbed my knight-sisters of their lives. I abandoned them in their time of need. And Captain Phila believes I am the one to continue their legacy? Some successor I am, abandoning my own family." she declares bitterly. "I've tried to make peace with the past, but just thinking of facing their murderer terrifies me."
Her head bows down in shame at her words. "I'm scared, Jack. And if I can't even muster the courage to confront Gangrel, then why should I even bother fighting?"
So that's what the issue stems from. It all comes back to that fateful day.
"Cordelia, look at me."
She eventually does – reluctantly.
I place a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Look, I understand that this is a big issue for you. I won't judge you if you want to sit this battle out. Facing your fears is never easy."
I tighten my hold on her shoulder. "That being said, you're left with a choice here. You can either sit this battle out and let the rest of us handle the Mad King. Or, you stand up, fight alongside us and stare the source of your fears right in the eyes."
I indicate Gradivus in Cordelia's hands. "I think that's why you were given Gradivus. This spear represents that very choice. You can either let it keep you alive as you stay away from battle, or you let it become the tool that pierces through anything in your path. The choice is yours. Just know that I'll support you, no matter what you choose. I know you would do the same for all of us."
At hearing my words, determination slowly lights up in Cordelia's eyes until it becomes a roaring inferno.
"You're right, Jack. I can't let my fears hold me back, nor will I run away ever again."
"Is that your decision?" I ask.
Cordelia nods. "Yes. If I run away now, I'll spend the rest of my days doing it over and over. I refuse to live like that. I'll fight, no matter who my enemy is!" The determination spreads until she's practically radiating it. The terrified girl is replaced by a scarlet-haired warrior. "This war ends now! Gangrel will pay for killing my sisters, and he will pay in blood!"
I nod back. "Alright, then. Let's do it!"
Your relationship with Cordelia has improved!
POV change: General
A sinister aura envelops Tharja's tome as she chants a spell. A training dummy in front of her rots a few seconds later. Gaius shakes his head exasperated and gives the Dark Mage a come-hither motion. Tharja smirks and charges her next spell. Gaius slips a hand into his robes – and pulls out a lollipop that promptly goes into his mouth, which only annoys Tharja.
Stahl takes one more look at the recipe book on his right before he nods and adds some chopped onions to the cauldron. While stirring in his stew, he notices Panne return from her run in the forest. Stahl sends her a smile and offers a bowl of the stew, which the taguel curiously accepts.
Sully explains to Vaike how some of her hand-to-hand combat moves work. To demonstrate, she walks up to a training dummy, grabs hold, and suplexes it. The move leaves the dummy broken in an impact crater, making Vaike whistle in appreciation. Then the blond Fighter grins and rolls his shoulder as he approaches a training dummy of his own.
Sumia flips and twists through the air before she homes in on Frederick. She pulls up in her flight path to avoid Frederick's retaliatory strike and then uses the opening to jump off her pegasus to sneak in an attack of her own. Frederick parries the blow, albeit with visible effort. As they push against each other, Fredrick smiles and nods in approval, making Sumia smile back.
Miriel closes her notebook with a snap and directs her gaze on the vials with experimental potions brewing on her desk. Meanwhile, Kellam walks in with a box of more ingredients and places it on the Mage's left. Both occupants smile at each other before Miriel instructs the Knight on the various effects of the liquids.
Sweat pours down Ricken's forehead as he charges a powerful wind spell in his palm. The spell hits the training dummy with enough force to send it crashing into the wall. Ricken pants, tired, but triumphant over his achievement. Maribelle smiles proudly at her fiancé while she twirls her parasol in an intricate kata. The plegians will feel her wrath!
Lon'qu and Gregor try to outsmart each other in a chess match. Lon'qu soon gains the upper hand, only to raise his eyebrow at Gregor's confident grin. That's when he notices the knife pointed right at his gut. A tic mark grows on the Myrmidon's head, much to Gregor's amusement.
Virion pulls out his Duplex Bow, nocks an arrow, and hits two simultaneous bullseyes in a single fluid motion. He glances to the side and notices Olivia practice some dance moves. Olivia stops upon noticing the Archer applauding her with a bright smile, which in turn causes the Dancer to blush bright red.
Libra focuses mana into his staff, making the crystal at the tip glow yellow. Lissa takes in the sight with wide eyes as the War Monk demonstrates the spell. Libra then cuts off the mana flow and motions for the young Cleric. Lissa nods and closes her eyes in concentration, making her own staff glow in the same color.
Robin demonstrates some basic battle tactics for Nowi on a map. Nowi nods in understanding and then imitates a roaring dragon. Robin smiles and rubs the manakete's head affectionally, which makes Nowi pout.
Chrom sheaths Falchion and places his cape on his shoulders. Then he marches towards the meeting place with purpose and a determined scowl.
POV change: Jack
Cordelia and I meet Chrom as we arrive in the main hall at the same time. In short order, the other Shepherds join us.
"Shepherds, get ready to march!" Chrom orders.
"AYE, CAPTAIN!" is our collective response.
The main gates of Flavia's palace open, letting the cold Feroxi air into the building. The chilling breeze causes Chrom's cape to billow majestically behind him as he leads us out in the open. We're not just ready to fight in a battle – we're gonna end a war.
Gangrel, your days are numbered! Bring as many soldiers as you can. Arm them as well as you wish. We'll grind them all to dust under our heels.
Bring it on, Mad King of Plegia!
To be continued (BGM ends)
Preview of the next chapter:
*The Shepherds charge and meet Gangrel's elite forces head-on*
Gangrel: Here to die, little prince? That can be arranged! Bwa ha ha!
Chrom: I didn't come here to fight, Gangrel. I came here to kill you!
Gangrel: Really, is that the best comeback you have? You're nowhere near my level!
Jack: He doesn't need to, not with the rest of us here.
Gangrel: You… I'll take especially great pleasure in gutting you where you stand!
Jack: Try me, court jester!
Next time on Gamer Emblem Awakening:
Shepherds! Assemble! The day our names were carved into history.
Chrom and Gangrel: Either way, this war ends now!
Omake: Why muscle is the best diplomacy
Emmeryn is about to unleash a massive light spell on the Plegian side when Frederick steps up.
"If I may, Your Grace." the Great Knight asks.
Emmeryn looks at Frederick in confusion before she nods.
Frederick calmly walks towards Mustafa, unarmed and with his hands folded behind his back. The Plegian Berserker raises an eyebrow at the unusual maneuver, and continues to raise it the closer Frederick gets. The two men stand only a few paces apart. Both sides watch curiously as the two men stare each other down.
With nary a warning, Frederick flexes his muscles so hard that the armor on his upper body flies off from the rapid expansion of rock-solid biomass. Everyone save for Mustafa look at the Great Knight in shock. Several females eye his physique with less-than-professional intent.
On a side note, Frederick is frikkin' RIPPED!
Mustafa, in turn, flexes his muscles, causing his significantly smaller armor to rip like paper. While obvious due to the revealing nature of his attire, he, too, displays a very muscular figure.
Both half-naked men hold their flexing poses for half a minute. In that time, the clouds manage to return and cover the sky once more, as Emmeryn stopped powering her light pillar.
Frederick and Mustafa suddenly release their flexing poses and clasp their hands together instead. A shaft of sunlight pierces through the clouds, illuminating where the two men stand and look at each other in admiration and respect. The very air around them seems to sparkle in kinship and comradery.
Mustafa nods. "I understand. Go. I will cover for you."
The Plegian general then turns to his soldiers.
"Men! Clear a path and let the Ylissean league through. No one is to so much as raise a weapon, much less attack anybody! Do I make myself clear?"
Mustafa's subordinates look among themselves in confusion, trying to understand why their general would order something like that.
Mustafa scowls at his unit. "I said; DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?!"
"Yes, General Mustafa!" his soldiers answer fearfully.
Not wanting to draw the ire of their (insanely ripped) commander, the Plegian soldiers scramble to clear the middle of the road as fast as possible. Not looking a gift horse in the mouth, Frederick calmly strolls through the cleared pathway. The rest of the ylisseans and the feroxi follow soon afterwards, albeit with a lot more vigilance.
As soon as the Ylissean league has cleared their last obstacle, Lissa runs up to Frederick.
"Frederick, what in the world did you do?!" the Ylissean princess asks bewildered.
Frederick places a hand on his chin while a mysterious sparkle twinkles in front of his face.
"'Tis a secret among men, milady."
Jack and Gregor nod sagely.
"Very ancient way of talking. Spans over any cultural and language. Deep instinct is making the connecting between all men from baby age. Can only say that much." Gregor explains.
"Besides, we wouldn't be able to explain it to you in a way you'd understand, even if we tried, Lissa." Jack continues. "We call this secret: Bromance."
Frederick smiles at his fellow males. "Ah, I see you two are men of culture as well. It does my heart good to be in the company of like-minded."
Lissa looks at the three nodding males and shakes her head. "Men…"
New skills:
Za Warudo!, Lvl 1 [12 %], Active, Cost: 150 MP per second
The most powerful signature ability of the undead Stand user, Dio Brando. When unleashed, the world itself bends to your will as the flow of time stops within the space of your power. Of course, you yourself are fully capable of moving within this stopped space and affect anyone frozen in time. Need a better battle position? Want to set up for a devastating ambush? Maybe you just want to punch someone really hard in their face without them seeing it coming? All of this and more is possible with Za Warudo. And when you're done, strike a cool pose as you declare time to move once again. It's not complete without a cool pose!
Stops time around the caster upon activation. All damage dealt will come into effect the moment this skill is deactivated.
Kissing, Lvl 1 [10 %], Active, Cost: 0 MP
Lip contact is one of the most intimate acts two people can share together. This skill represents how skilled you are at using your lips in these intimate moments. When sufficiently skilled, a single kiss can light a passion so hot, you won't escape the bedchamber for a long time. Or, you know, you can just use this skill as a simple sign of affection. It's not like this is a hentai or anything.
Jack's encyclopedic corner
Berserker, Class
Frontline fighters with herculean strength and unrelenting resilience. Their axe swings can penetrate almost any defense, and they move fast enough to make up for their poor technique. But all is not good with these juggernauts. They can take hits like champs, but that's because their dodging skills suck. This only gets worse by the fact that they have such huge body frames. They are also often considered to be quite stupid, as they typically rush into battle with very little armor.
Passively increases maximum HP and STR by 15 %. Damage dealt from axes and blunt weapons is increased by 10 %. Magic of any element deal 10 % less damage. Damage taken from any source is increased by 5 %.
Palutena's Bow, Bow, Base damage: 64, Divine
A sacred bow crafted through the power of the goddess of light, Palutena. The drawstring of this weapon only appears when the wielder draws an arrow. The arrows, in turn, are conjured by channeling mana through the bow. It can even split into a pair of short swords. You'll have a smash using this versatile weapon. Just make sure you don't end up in a brawl too often. Short swords aside, it's not really suited for a melee.
This weapon also counts as Dual blades.
Available skills when wielded: Light arrow, Bow split
Super War Spear, Polearm, Base damage: 110, Unique
The ultimate weapon of the foul-playing ex-marine, Don Krieg. Whenever swung, this weapon unleashes a powerful explosion at the point of impact. This makes fighting the wielder extremely difficult, as blocking the spear only results in getting blasted in the face. Breaking the tip won't really help, as it merely reduces this weapon to a bomb-on-a-stick. Make sure to keep your distance, whether you're the wielder or the opponent, or you'll get blown to smithereens.
Each explosion deals fire-elemental damage. The base damage of each explosion is 350 % of the wielder's STR.
Ylissean folk hero, Title
Your many selfless deeds in the service of the halidom have gained recognition among the people. Your reputation has grown to the point that the people of Ylisse celebrate you as you arrive. Your mark in Ylissean history is all but guaranteed. The ladies throw themselves at you (well, not really). In short, you've become a celebrity on Ylissean soil. Become the best you can be, and the halidom will grow better of it.
Increases CHAR by 15 % when interacting within the borders of Ylisse or with someone from Ylisse when outside the halidom.
Dio: Wryyy!
*Bang!*
For the love of Stand power, stay in your coffin, Dio!
All right, people. Put down your torches and Bolganone tomes and hear me out before you flame me.
My decision has been made: Emmeryn lives! This is probably the biggest divergence from canon in this fic. Naturally, this will have its consequences down the line, primarily that Chrom won't shoulder as much of the political responsibility he would have if Emmeryn sacrificed herself. Aside from that, the Shepherds can rub a sick burn into the Grimleal's face regarding the whole "you cannot change the course of history" thing. And if you think Emmeryn acted OOC against Mustafa and his men, consider this. Chrom is awesome. Lissa is awesome. Lucina is awesome. Owain is all kinds of awesome. Awesomeness practically runs in the royal family of Ylisse along with their brand. It only makes sense that Emmeryn has some awesome running through her veins as well.
And if you think Jack pulling Za Warudo out of nowhere was cheap, consider the fact that Aversa summoning all those Risen Archers falls into that category as well. It ain't unfair if both sides play huge trump cards. Besides, Jack could've achieved the exact same effect with a different method that's well within his grasp. He simply had to Trace Mickey's keyblade, Mimic the iconic mouse and cast Stopza on the whole courtyard. This method is just faster and cooler. Of course, Jack won't use Za Warudo all the time. Not only would it make most future battles boring, its cost is tremendous, making it impractical in drawn-out fights. At the moment, I plan on including Za Warudo a total of five times in this fic, including the two times in this chapter. Consider that in light of how many more battles Jack has ahead of him. Za Warudo is a trump card, not a go-to option.
As of this chapter, Jack and Robin are officially a couple! Their wedding will have to wait until a future chapter, though, as I plan a few things to happen before then. In turn, I plan for their wedding, as well as Chrom's and Cordelia's, to have its own scene. The rest will happen off-screen, since I can't plan enough wedding scenes with variety. Still, I can imagine Tharja being all "Get on with it!" on her wedding.
On a side note, osmium is the densest natural element in the world. I think you can make the connection from there.
I came to realize something after Jack revealed the truth of his origins; he has more leeway in which kinds of weapons he can Trace now, since any weapon the Shepherds aren't familiar with can be written off as "a weapon from a different world". Of course, there's a limit to how high-tech Jack can go, even with the increased leeway. I simply have some more options at my fingertips, including some weapons suggested in the reviews you have posted.
I made the omake more or less by flying by the seat of my pants. Maybe that's how omakes are supposed to be made? Eh, whatever. I had fun writing it.
That should be everything for now. Please rate and review. VipeR out.
