SNOOOOOW!

Yeah, it's gotten really snowy where I live right now. A colleague of mine told me that our town lies at a high altitude, so heavy snowfall is common whenever the white weather passes by. Maybe not "American blizzard" level, but there's a lot of white.

Anyway, welcome, dear readers, to the latest chapter of Gamer Emblem Awakening. There were some rough patches here and there, but I finally managed to get everything I wanted done in this chapter written down. You need only read, get the BGM:s ready, and enjoy.

Before that, let's get to some reviews.

Antex-The Legendary Zoroark: Yeah, Walhart is just ridiculous on the power scale. He's my favorite antagonist in the Fire Emblem series and one of my favorite antagonists overall. I have every intention to do him justice in this fic, right up to his insane stats.

thepowerfullkira: Who knows… I'm not telling XD

Ace6151: Some of the pairings in this fic are favorites of mine from a gameplay perspective. For example, pairing Sumia with Frederick doesn't just give either character a partner that complement each other in almost every way with the support boosts, it gives Cynthia the potential to become a flying tank. However, I mainly based the pairings on how the characters interact with each other and how they'll interact with their respective children. Oftentimes this also affects how each child interacts with Jack.

warrior of six blades: I think Tiki handles her puberty just fine. She's busy sleeping most of the time, so she might actually sleep right through most of it.
Good eye on the name of Jack's weapon. Harvest Moon is indeed a reference to the famous farm game franchise.
As for Stahl, the guy has a good reason for his massive appetite, now that he's Panne's husband. All those calories that he stuffs into his mouth all month will be burned during that one week under the moon. Rabbits in heat are known to be very…active.

Hashirama 1710: Owain might do that once or twice in this fic, but with the plans I have for him, he may do it mostly for kicks.

Blazing heart frigid soul: Considering Sora's form changes in KH3, I suppose it's reasonable that the Keyblade mastery could stack with other masteries, depending on which keyblade is wielded. However, that's an avenue I'm leaving alone in this fic, as going into that topic would be way too complex for me and would require more research than I'm motivated to putting into this fic (more than I already have).

Owain: Calm your sword hand, man. I have great plans for you, but they shall only be revealed when you enter the stage. However, know this; the hand will be sated.

Copyright disclaimer: I only own the plot of this fic. For a full copyright disclaimer, please read chapter 1.

Also, a word of warning; There is a sex scene in this chapter. While I tried to keep it mild, keep in mind that it's there. I will add an AN when it comes up and when it ends.

Plebians, all of you! – Virion


Chapter 12:

Forever, my heart is yours.
Gathering the 100 allies.

I raise an eyebrow at Emmeryn. "I'm sorry, Your Grace, could you repeat that?"

"Like I said…" the exalt replies. "…I have decided to promote you to the rank of captain."

"Yeah, I understand that part. What I don't understand is why."

"I have been told of your various exploits during the war against Plegia a year ago, Jack." Emmeryn explains. "While reckless, many of your comrades told me of how they shifted the battles in their favor. In recognition of these efforts, I have decided to formally promote you."

Phila steps up at this point. "Allow me to explain what this promotion entails. As captain, you are tasked with training a group of soldiers placed under your command and lead them in battle against enemies of the halidom. The size of your company is largely up to your preference, though your rank will not allow any more than one hundred subordinates under your command at a time."

I nod as I process the information. Commanding my own unit sounds challenging, as I'm used to fighting alone or spontaneously teaming up with my fellow Shepherds. Which leads me to another important question.

"What about my allegiance with the Shepherds? I'm already a member there, which means I fight under Chrom's command."

Phila nods. "While that is true, we have already spoken with Prince Chrom on this matter. In times of peace like these, your position will have you operate independently of the Shepherds. You are free to join with them in case mission objectives between your units overlap, but that will be temporary alliances at most. Should war break out, the Shepherds will join the rest of Ylisse's standing army, as will your company."

Which means I'll only fight with Chrom and the others when Valm eventually drops in and lay claim on the continent. Well, that will probably be the only time when they'll need my help anyway. Now to figure out how to train and lead an entire unit.

I might have an idea that works – and mainly because I can abuse Shadow clones to my heart's content.

I take a knee in front of the exalt. "All right, Your Grace. I accept the promotion, and the responsibility that it entails."

Emmeryn smiles upon hearing my answer. "Wonderful." Then her face instantly gets serious. "While I would normally prefer not to appoint anyone with military command in peace times, the war against Plegia made it clear that our standing army is not properly prepared in case of another invasion. Should an enemy stronger than Plegia emerge, Ylisse, as it stands now, is ill prepared to fend them off. I'm grateful that you accept this responsibility, Jack. Truly, I am."

With a hand gesture, Emmeryn commands for a badge to be brought to her on top of a small velvet cushion. The exalt picks it up and walks down the steps towards me.

"This badge will signify your rank in the army of Ylisse. Wear it with pride as you lead the soldiers."

"I have one request, however." I interject before she can place it on me.

"What is that?"

"If I'm going to command a group of soldiers, I will need a second-in-command. One that I pick myself."

Phila nods. "As a captain, that much is expected from you. Do you have anyone in mind?"

I smirk in reply. "One of my most reliable allies among the Shepherds."


Lon'qu raises an eyebrow. "Run that by me again."

"It's simple." I explain. "As the leader of a military unit, I will need a lieutenant to help me lead the soldiers under my command. And among all the people I know who could shoulder that role, you're the one I want the most to be my second-in-command."

The Swordmaster shakes his head. "I understand that much, but why me?"

"Because, among the available Shepherds, you're the one I trust the most, Lon'qu."

"I'm not experienced in leading soldiers in battle. I prefer fighting on my own terms."

"So do I. *Sigh* Look, I'm still trying to figure out this whole captain thing, but it's something that I think I will learn in time. I think you can accomplish the same."

"I'm not even interested. Is there really no one else?"

"I've given it a lot of thought, and the answer is "no". Robin out-ranks me in war times and is too busy managing the army as a whole. Chrom already leads the Shepherds. Cordelia is busy training under Phila. Frederick refuses to leave Chrom's side. And let's be honest; can you even imagine Nowi leading soldiers on the battlefield?"

Lon'qu pauses and considers my reply before he nods. "Fair enough. I accept. However, if this hinders me from mastering the blade, I will resign immediately."

I roll my eyes at his single-minded response. "I wouldn't worry about that. Since we'll be working together, we'll have plenty of time for training and sparring together as well. If anything, you can use your training to inspire our subordinates to train harder themselves."

"That sounds acceptable." A smirk grows on Lon'qu's lips. "After all, I am still curious of how much stronger you've gotten during your journey."

I return the smirk and bump fists with him. "Same to you. I wouldn't consider our rivalry as ongoing unless you kept sharpening your skills. Here's to us leading the unit to victory, partner."

"By your command…partner. Or is it "Captain" now?"

"In public; yes."


A grand total of 99 soldiers are gathered on the training grounds outside the palace. Most of them look around curiously, with the occasional hushed conversation going on among their ranks.

I should know. I'm standing right among them as a squirrel, trying to get a feel for my future company.

"Did you hear? We're supposedly gathered here today because we're being put under the command of a captain." one of them whispers.

"Yeah. What's more, I heard he was promoted recently." another whispers back. "I wonder what he's like."

A third one scoffs. "Meh, if he's just promoted, he can't be that big of a deal."

"I wouldn't be so sure about that, Lash. Word has it, he's a member of the famous Shepherds."

"I heard that too, Sasha. I also hear he's got strange powers that allow him to fight unlike any other soldier in the world. Some say he can summon weapons out of thin air. Others say he can copy himself and be in two places at the same time."

"I wouldn't take too much stock in rumors like those, Collin. For all we know, they are just tall tales spun among soldiers."

Heh. Been awhile since I heard that kind of dismissal. Boy, are they in for the surprise of their lives once I get going.

"Hey, do you think that's him?" Collin whispers and points at Lon'qu.

Sasha nods in agreement. "He certainly has the presence of a warrior. Though his appearance does not seem to match the description I heard."

Lon'qu looks among the gathered soldiers before he sighs in exasperation. "How long do you intend to hide among your subordinates, Jack? You're supposed to face them properly as their leader."

Confused looks spread among the gathered soldiers as they hear the odd choice of words. That's when I make my entrance – by scurrying out from their ranks in squirrel form and standing beside Lon'qu.

"Sorry." I squeak. "I just wanted to listen in on their conversations to get to know them a bit better. With a company of this size, getting to know each and every soldier can be a hassle."

Lon'qu rolls his eyes. "I thought you had other ways to get to know several people at the same time. Isn't it about time they got to know you as well, Captain?"

Hah! Most of my company make a great fish impression!

"No way. Our captain is a SQUIRREL!?"

"You mean a talking squirrel! That's it! I'm swearing off drinking!"

"Hold up!" I squeak to get their attention. "Well, seeing as you're all here, allow me to introduce myself."

In a puff of smoke, I stand before my subordinates in my real form, to the continued shock of them.

"My name is Jack, and as of today, I'm the captain of this company. Nice to meet you all." I greet them with a big smile.

"No way! Those rumors were true after all?"

While my company is busy freaking out over my skills, I take the opportunity to memorize their names and faces. It certainly helps that Gamer's body lets me see every individual name hovering above their heads. Some liberal use of Observe certainly helps out.

It probably would've felt normal if it wasn't for the fact that a lot of my subordinates have the same names as characters from various video games…

"How are things going, Jack? Getting comfortable with your new soldiers?"

Our attention turns to the one who asked; Robin.

"Wow, it's Lady Robin, in the flesh!"

"I never thought I'd see the day when I see her in person!"

"I can't believe she's the chief tactician of the entire army. Take that, men! Women are on their way up the social ladder!"

"As well as things could go, I suppose." I reply.

Robin walks up to me and takes a look over the gathered soldiers.

"So, these are your subordinates?"

I nod. "Yep. Starting today, they're my responsibility."

"Hold on." one in the crowd interjects. "You know Lady Robin personally, Captain?"

I nod with a cheerful smile and hug Robin to my side with one arm. "Sure do. You may have already heard about her, everyone, but allow me to introduce Robin; head tactician of the Ylissean army, one of Prince Chrom's closest allies and, best of all, my fiancée."

"What?!"

"I had no idea!"

"Drat! And here I thought I had a chance with her!"

A sinister aura surrounds me. "Care to repeat that, Ringabel?"

"No, sir!"

"Well, I won't take any more of your time." Robin says while she slips out of my embrace. "I'm sure you'll be busy training these soldiers, so I'll leave you to it. I wish you the best of luck."

"Oh, I won't be that busy." I reply and summon a Shadow clone, further shocking my company. "I can have a small army of me taking care of training while I can take the time to do whatever else is on my list."

Robin shakes her head in good nature. "It still baffles me how you use all these outlandish methods to solve your problems. Though I won't deny the results."

I grin at her. "I'm just that awesome. Normal solutions are overrated."

Lon'qu rolls his eyes. "You're the only one who could ever say that without sounding like a madman."

I direct my grin to the Swordmaster. "I know, right? Doesn't it feel great to be under my command?"

"That's up for discussion."

"Hey, that's just rude!"

"Um… Sir?" a meek voice speaks up from among the soldiers.

I look at where it came from. "Yes?"

"I was just wondering. How exactly will you train us?"

"I'm glad you asked." I reply smiling. "What I had in mind was that this unit will focus on teamwork. The idea is that you always team up and fight as one at all times. I may be your captain, but I want to lead you as your equal right on the frontlines instead of pulling rank all the time. It's quite similar to how Prince Chrom commands the Shepherds."

My smile turns a teensy bit sadistic. "That being said, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. That means you will go through some harsh training alongside teamwork exercises before I deem you ready for battle."

Maya, the one who spoke, gulps.

"Hold on! You can't just shove some hellish training regimen on us and expect us to comply!" another in the crowd shouts. Elliot. Figures.

[Fun fact: Elliot Hooker is Wonder Blue's real name. No, his name is NOT an indication of his profession! He's a detective!]

I rub my chin in thought. "Well, you do bring up a good point. How about a demonstration, then?"

"Sure, I'm all for it." Elliot answers confidently.

I turn to Lon'qu. "Hey, Lon'qu. How about that spar we were talking about earlier? We can use that to show them what level of combat prowess I'm expecting from them."

Lon'qu nods without a word.

"Aren't you setting the bar a little high?" Robin asks with a sweatdrop. "Lon'qu was already much stronger than the average soldier before you departed for your journey, and he's only gotten better since."

"Which is why I'm using him as the benchmark." I reply. "Unless the others can keep up with him, chances are Lon'qu and I will end up pulling most of the weight, and I don't want that with these people under my command."

We're soon gathered near a sparring area, with Lon'qu and me standing in the ring with a training sword each in our hands. Robin volunteered to proctor our match.

"All right. Are both fighters ready?"

I take a basic stance. "Ready."

Lon'qu does the same and nods an affirmative.

Robin looks between us one last time before she brings down her arm in a chopping motion.

"Begin!"

*Shing!* *Plonk. Plonk.*

Blink. Blink.

I glance at my now significantly shorter training sword. Then I redirect my gaze back at my opponent.

"Lon'qu?"

"Yes?"

"What just happened to our swords?"

Lon'qu glances at his training sword and finds the exact same result as mine.

"I think they snapped."

I throw my training sword away with a shaking head. "This won't do. We'll need another pair and do this again."

Robin clears her throat. "Jack, I think that's not the prob-"

"Nonsense." I wave her off. "So what if we ended up with two faulty training swords? We'll just try again with a fresh pair."

My fiancée looks like she wants to protest, but ultimately shakes her head. "*Sigh* Oh, fine. Have it your way."

What did she mean by that?

Lon'qu and I retake our positions with new training swords in hand.

"Ready."

"Mm."

"Begin!"

*Shing!* *Plonk. Plonk.*

I look at our newest pair of shortened training swords with a twitching eyebrow.

"Oh, come on! Is there not a single pair of training swords around here that can take more than a single clash?!" I shout exasperated.

"I think you should take a closer look at the tip, Jack." Lon'qu replies while inspecting his own.

With a huff, I listen to his advice. Huh. I'm surprised it snapped so cleanly. The surface is surprisingly smooth. Almost as if-

"This is what I tried to tell you earlier." Robin tells me flatly. "As unbelievable as it might sound, you and Lon'qu managed to slice each other's training swords apart in a single clash. You won't be able to spar with training weapons."

I look at Robin incredulously. It sounds crazy, all right. Still… That would explain the smooth surface.

I shrug and extend my hand to Lon'qu. "Should we call it a tie?"

Lon'qu takes my hand and nods. A smile grows on his face. "It pleases me that you've kept up your training while traveling. While I still don't know how well you'll fare as my commander, I know that you're at least a capable warrior that I have the utmost respect for. No matter the enemy you face down, you can count on me to aid you in any way I can."

A matching smile grows on my own face. "I knew I made the right call to pick you as my second-in-command, Lon'qu. I know I'll fail along the way, and when I do, I can trust you to be the voice of reason to help me get back up and learn from those failures. You're a major reason I got this good with a blade in the first place. I'm not sure how we'll handle this whole rivalry thing at this point, but you'll always be my partner – one of my closest allies."

"Right back at you…partner."


Your relationship with Lon'qu has advanced! Your relationship with Lon'qu is now "Friends"!

The bond you've nurtured has given birth to a new ability! You can now perform the Union strike "Swords Dance" with Lon'qu!


With that out of the way, I turn to face my gathered subordinates, while paying especially close attention to Elliot.

"While it didn't go exactly as planned, I believe this shows what I'll expect from all of you in the future. Sure, you don't have to get good enough to slice a wooden training sword in half with another wooden training sword, but this should show the level of combat prowess Lon'qu and I possess. And with the training I have prepared for you, you will be able to keep up with that level in time."

I notice mixed reactions within the crowd. Some seem excited, while the majority looks nervous.

"Look, it might get easier if I explain why I plan to train you like this in the first place. What I envision with this unit is a team of fighters who are always ready to protect Ylisse from any threat, no matter how big or small. This isn't your usual military unit that I aim to train. I don't want a group of soldiers. I want to make us a team – a group where everyone has each other's backs and unite to take on threats and challenges together. No one is supposed to fight alone. We may be many, but we always fight as one. Our united strength will be greater than the sum of its parts."

At hearing my words, the gathered soldiers look at each other. Any apprehension that may have shown on their faces slowly shifts into hope and determination. This is exactly what I wanted to see. We haven't even started training yet, and they're already bonding with each other. I smile proudly at my subordinates. No, not subordinates. My team.

"Looks like you're getting the idea. I know training will be hard, but it's something that we'll go through together." The smile morphs into a grin. "As of today, we are known as…"


Frederick raises an eyebrow skeptically. "The wonderful 101?"

I nod proudly. "Exactly. 100 soldiers fighting as one, led by their captain in battle."

"While I admit that the idea has some novelty – as does the name – I fail to see how this will work." Chrom interjects. "Commanding a unit even half the number of yours in a coherent way is challenging, even for a veteran field commander. How do you intend to succeed, Jack?"

"You're right in that it won't be easy, Chrom. The first step is getting everyone used to the training regimen I have prepared for them. That includes the exercises that are specifically for the sake of building teamwork. I know that most of my teammates will work better with some in the team than others, but I want everyone to at least trust each other on the battlefield."

"You do realize that there is much that they can only learn by taking part in actual combat, do you not?" Frederick asks.

I nod. "I'm well aware. That's why I plan on taking them on some missions in about a month or so. Start small, if you will. Look, I know there's a lot of work ahead of me and my team if we want to become what I envisioned. Heck, it's only recently that they've started embracing that same vision. Even so, that will be the foundation that we'll build our teamwork on."

Chrom smiles. "Well, if nothing else, I can tell that you and your team are determined to succeed. And, no offense, but I think "The wonderful 101" doesn't exactly sound very intimidating."

I roll my eyes. "Oh, please. Like "Shepherds" is any more terrifying."

"We never meant it to frighten anyone." Frederick answers promptly. "Our primary objective has always been the protection of the people. A reputation that scares off brigands and whatever else that may threaten the realm came with time as we kept fulfilling our duty."

I point at the Great Knight. "Exactly, Frederick. That's what I intend to do with my team as well. I admit that I didn't choose a name that strikes fear in the hearts of potential enemies, but that's not my aim here. Like with the Shepherds, I want my team to build such a good rapport that their name will become famous across the lands. Heck, maybe even beyond the sea."

Chrom scratches his head. "Beyond the sea? That's sounds a bit too ambitious."

"Yeah, you may be right. My point still stands, though. We may not be famous yet, but we will be in time. Count on it."

You gained a new title! You gained "Commander of 100"!

Frederick frowns. "Speaking of which, if you are so certain that your subordinates need so much training, why are you not overseeing it?"

I wave it off. "Oh, technically, I am. You know about my ability to essentially make copies of myself, right?" When the two men nod, a grin forms on my face. "I have so much mana at my disposal at this point that I can have a copy to oversee the training for each and every one of my teammates personally."

Chrom and Frederick stare at me in shock before the prince rubs his temples. "That has to be the most blatant instance of real-life cheating that I've ever heard of."

I grin back. "You have no idea, Chrom. To tell you the truth, I'm not the real Jack."

"You're not?"

"Nope! Boss is with Robin right now. She said she wanted to show him something. Well, I think I'd better let the others know about this. Bye!"

*Poof!*


I'm right now with Robin by some water throughs close to the Shepherds' stables.

"All right, what did you want to show me, Robin?" I ask.

Robin gives me a smile and walks inside the stables. "You'll see."

She soon emerges with a bucket in hand. The wooden container is filled with water and held on top of her palm, clearly visible from above where I stand.

Wait… Is she gonna do what I think she's gonna do?

"Watch this, Jack." Robin tells me with some excitement slipping into her voice.

Her face furrows in concentration as she glares at the water in the bucket. I notice the water level slowly lowering inside. And yet, not a single drop escapes its confines. In short order, the water level is about a third of when Robin started.

"You might want to step back a bit." Robin warns me. I notice some strain in her voice and comply immediately.

*SPLASH!*

The water shoots straight into the air, high enough to easily clear the palace walls, before it falls back down and splashes everywhere on the ground.

Barely a second later, I run up to Robin, scoop her up in a hug and twirl her around.

"You did it!" I shout proudly. "You mastered the second step of the Rasengan!"

"All right, I get it!" Robin replies. "Now put me down, already!"

I comply and give her a massive grin. "You have no idea how proud I am of you right now."

My fiancée rolls her eyes. "Oh, I think I do."

"So, I guess you were hard at work mastering the second step."

Robin nods. "I've trained on compressing my mana for months now. It took a while, but I eventually realized that the trick for compressing the mana works similarly to when I concentrate mana for a lightning spell. The potency of those spells depends on how well I can concentrate the mana after I convert it into an electric charge. That's why high-level lightning spells require so much focus – without it, the spell flies out of control."

I rub my chin in thought. "Huh… I'm impressed you managed to apply another kind of spellcasting to figure out how to perform the power step." I smile at Robin. "If we were married right now, I'd hold you tight and kiss you silly to show you how proud I am."

Robin pouts. "Did you have to tell me that?! I have a hard-enough time holding myself back as is right now. I do not need that image in my head!"

"Sorry about that…" I apologize awkwardly. "So… How about we head straight for the third step?"

Robin huffs. "Anything to get my mind off that image."

"Um… Yeah… *Ahem*"

I slap a hand on the ground and transmute some of the dirt. A few seconds later, I pick up a sphere made of the material we're standing on.

"This sphere is made of tightly packed dirt. The most important part is that it's hollow."

Robin raises an eyebrow. "And how will I train the third step of the Rasengan with that?"

"You remember the shape of the Rasengan, don't you?" At Robin's nod, I smile and lift my other hand, so it is level with the hand holding the sphere. "This is what it looks like on the inside."

A Rasengan whirls to life in my palm. The size more or less matches the size of the sphere. Robin alternates between staring at my Rasengan in one hand and the sphere on the other in shock.

"Wha- How do you do that?!"

"This is the third and final step of the Rasengan: containment." I explain. "Up until now, you've trained in the aspects of the Rasengan that give it its destructive capabilities. The rotation, which chips and tears away at any defense. The power, to let that very rotation unleash its true potency. But neither of those aspects will do you any good unless you release all that mana at the exact moment of impact. That's why you need to learn how to contain the mana within the sphere."

Robin nods. "I suppose that makes sense. There's no point in learning how to cast spells unless you can channel the mana properly and unleash it when it's concentrated sufficiently."

"Exactly. And now, the time has come for you to learn how to contain the swirling mana of the Rasengan and effectively tame its destructive power."

Robin looks at my hands nervously. "What happens if I fail to contain it?"

I take a few steps back and dispel the Rasengan in one hand while I lift up the dirt sphere. "This."

The dirt sphere shakes briefly in my hand before it explodes violently in all directions. Robin yelps as some dirt flies in her direction.

"I think this shows you what happens if you can't control the Rasengan properly." I comment. "Instead of directing all that power at your opponent, it blows up in your face, kind of like a badly cast fire spell."

Robin gulps as the implications sink in. "Does that mean I'll put myself in danger every time I fail to contain the mana?"

"Nah. We'll take it easy."

I pick up the bucket and refill it with some water. Robin raises an eyebrow when I return.

"The bucket again?"

I shrug. "Hey, if it's not broken, don't fix it."

I show her the insides of the filled bucket. "The secret to containing the Rasengan is to give it a limited space where the mana is allowed to rotate. The outline of that space is marked by a thin shell made of mana. So long as you can concentrate your mana and keep up the rotation within this shell, you'll be able to contain it."

I place my free hand on the water surface and concentrate my mana. After I get the shape I want, I lift the hand back up again – with the water sticking to the palm in a bubble shape.

Robin looks at the water bubble in wonder. "Wow…"

I smile as I lift the bubble. "What you see here is how this mana shell works. First, I spread my mana until it envelops all the water. When the shell is complete, I lift up my hand, and give the shell the shape I want in the process. Once you learn how to form the shell and make it firm enough to hold the water, you can do all sorts of fun stuff with it."

I place the bucket on the ground and then start to pass the water bubble between my hands, while giving the shell various shapes. First a cube, then a cone, pyramid, prism and lastly, a cylinder.

"Jack, that's amazing…"

"And something you'll be able to do with enough practice." I assure my fiancée. "So long as you keep the shell firm, you can shape it any way you want."

I let the shell return to its spherical form. "Though your first task is mastering this shape. Once you do, you'll have all the skills needed to perform the Rasengan."

Robin looks at the bubble one more time before her face sets in the same determination that she's displayed ever since she started training in learning the Rasengan.

"I'll master this step before you know it, Jack. Count on it."

I smile. "I'm sure you will. And I look forward to that day."

"Aha! There you are!"

Robin and I turn and spot Maribelle and Lissa approach us.

"Maribelle? Lissa? How can I help you?" Robin asks.

Maribelle scowls and points her parasol at Robin's face. "You are coming with us, Robin."

"W-what?! Why?"

"You're telling me you and Jack are finally getting married, and you expect us to not get involved?" Lissa asks. "Nu-uh. We're going to help plan your wedding, and it'll be awesome!"

My mind flashes back to when the two blondes practically kidnapped Cordelia to prepare for the redhead's wedding after the war against Plegia ended.

Robin pales upon reliving similar memories. Oh, that's right. She got roped into the whole thing, because Maribelle and Lissa needed someone to organize every extravagant idea they could concoct.

"Uh… There's no way I could plan this wedding with…say, Miriel?" the Grandmaster asks while trying to back away.

The attempt is instantly foiled when Lissa grabs her around the wrist with a smile that's equal parts sweet and absolutely terrifying.

"Nope. We're in this together, and there's nothing you can do to stop us, buster."

Robin struggles to wriggle out of the War Cleric's grip, to no avail. As they near the door where Maribelle and Lissa came from, she turns to me with fear in her eyes.

"Jack! Help!"

I shrug. "I shall pray for your safe return, Robin."

"You traitor! I thought you loved me!" *Slam!*

Forgive me, Robin. I do love you, but my instincts tell me that following you now will only result in a terrible fate beyond description.


And so, the days pass. Between training my team into the ground with a regimen that Frederick would approve of, teaching the meaning of teamwork, making sure that Robin survives the wedding planning and getting dragged into the occasional playtime with Nowi, I have my hands full. As hectic as my daily life turned into, though, I felt like I could get used to it. It's hectic, but it's an established rhythm. No sudden wars, no looming threat over the horizon (yet), just a peaceful everyday life with friends, the love of my life, and tortu- I mean, healthily training my teammates while getting to know them.

A month in, I finally decided to check on their progress. The perfect opportunity presented itself in the form of news that a group of bandits were lurking in the eastern parts of Ylisse, attacking caravans that traveled those roads. I immediately jumped at the opportunity and had my team set up within half an hour.

To make a long story short, we finished the mission with passable results. The individual training showed immediate results in that everyone was more than enough conditioned to take on at least three bandits on their own. We could've easily won with just our superior numbers and training alone. As for teamwork, it was passable. It was there, but it was still rough around the edges. From that day forward, I decided to change the training schedule to emphasize teamwork more (much to the relief of many of my team members).

We've just returned to the capital from that very mission. We've assembled in the castle courtyard, where I address my team with a proud smile.

"Well done, team. The results of your hard work and training were plain to see when we took care of those bandits. While our teamwork needs more attention, that can be rectified over time. For our first mission, you met my expectations, and then some. Now, take the rest of the day off to relax and take care of whatever errand that may be waiting. Dismissed!"

My teammates groan relieved before they scatter. Yeah, letting them get a day off was definitely the right call. Well, seeing as I have the rest of the day for myself, I might check up on Robin. Maribelle and Lissa have spent an entire month effectively keeping her hostage by planning for our wedding.

Speaking of which, there she is! And, uh… Judging from her slouched posture, she seems quite tired.

"Robin? How are you feeling?" I ask concerned.

A red glow flashes from behind her bangs. She's in front of me in the blink of an eye.

"Jaaaack…" she drones in a disturbing monotone. "How long has it been?"

I take a step back. "Uh… A month, I think?"

Robin takes a step forward in perfect sync. "Yeeesss… One entire month, where I was dragged through gods-know-how-many places by Maribelle and Lissa, all in the name of wedding preparations."

I keep backing away from my (frightening) fiancée, only to freeze as I notice my back bump against a wall. "Um, wow… Well, I was just going to look for you. You know, to check up on how things have been since we last saw each other."

Robin's shoulders shake. Moments later, I realize the shaking comes from her laughter. A laughter so eerie, it feels like the air around her is turning dark.

"Uh hee hee hee hee… And I was looking for you, Jack."

Robin straightens up. My blood freezes upon seeing the crazed grin on her face.

"Because now I can drag you with me for my return to that hell!"

Before I can react, Robin grabs me by the collar, pulls me in and smashes her lips against mine. She's not letting go and TOOONguuee~~…


"Ah, finally awake, I see."

I blink my eyes as I slowly return to consciousness. Virion stands in front of me with a measuring tape in hand. I slowly look around. We're in a room with fabric in every color of the rainbow in rolls, hanging on racks along the walls. The tables are half covered on sewing implements. And, is it just me, or is the Bow Knight shorter than I remember?

Oh, wait. I'm standing on a footstool.

…Why am I standing on a footstool?

"Jack back among living, yes?" I hear Gregor ask as he rounds a corner with a wooden box. Virion opens it to reveal a sewing kit, and threads some blue string on a needle.

"Gregor?" I ask confused. "What happened?"

"Bubbles brought you here about half an hour ago." Gaius explains from behind me. "Her face was all red while you had this empty look in your eyes. Since it's been a pain getting ahold of you these past few weeks, we decided to put you up as you were and get started on your wedding garments right away."

I look down on my body. Huh. My usual attire is gone. Instead, I have navy blue fabric draped over my upper body. Ricken sits by a nearby mannequin and works on what seems to be the beginning stages of a pair of pants of the same color.

"Wedding garments?" I ask confused.

"Yep. Maribelle explicitly told me and Robin she wouldn't settle for anything less than a proper wedding garb to match Robin's wedding dress." the Dark Knight replies. "Maribelle won't let me see the design, but she's given me a rough outline for how your wedding attire should match Robin's."

Virion picks up where Ricken left off. "Of course, making such an attire requires the aid of many, and only fabric of the highest quality will suffice. Now, please stand still. The shoulder measurements are especially important."

A quick pulse with Mind's eye tells me that several more of the male Shepherds are gathered in the room. Lon'qu is busy cutting fabric as per Virion's instructions. Stahl and Vaike do the heavy lifting with all the fabric rolls. And- Is that mirror floating? Oh, wait. That's just Kellam.

"Ah' sure hope Frederick won't throw a fit when he finds out so many o' us dropped our duties ta help make this here weddin' garb." Donnel mumbles nervously while he brings in another box of thread.

"Oh, I'm sure he'll understand." Stahl replies. "Just mention that Maribelle ordered the garb be made to meet her standards, and he'll let it slide."

"What did I miss in my absence?" I ask the green Great Knight curiously.

"Long story short, Butler tried to convince Twinkles that duty goes before making your wedding clothes." Gaius explains. "It didn't end well. Last I checked, Stumbles is still busy patching him up. I never even knew you could dent armor with a parasol, of all things."

A shudder runs down my spine. Somehow, I can relate to Frederick's plight. As stalwart and strong as he may be, even he is powerless in the face of an enraged Maribelle. Naga forbid the day she discovers the power of Frying pans.

"There we go." Virion declares proudly. "These measurements should fit the garb on your body like the cape on the shoulders of our noble captain and prince." He writes something down on a note and passes it to Lon'qu. "Here are the measurements for the jacket, sir Lon'qu. Make sure to follow them to the letter. Er, number."

Lon'qu accepts the note with a stoic grunt before he gets back to cutting fabric. Man, that's some precision cutting, right there.

Gaius and Virion help me get off the experimental garb as I get off the footstool. Some assistance from Donnel lets me find my robes quick enough. I'm about to exit the room with some thanks to my fellow Shepherds when Virion steps in my way.

"Hold, my friend. Surely you did not think that we were done yet, did you?"

I raise an eyebrow. "You pretty much have all the measurements you need for my wedding clothes, right? What more do you need from me until they're finished?"

"A number of things, actually. First and foremost, however, is the concern about your hair."

I rub the top of my scalp with a confused expression. "Hey, I like my hair. What's so bad about it?"

"While I do not mind the way your hair is in normal circumstances, this is your wedding we are talking about. It is imperative that you look your best. We all know your beloved bride will do the same."

I nod sagely. "Can't argue with that."

"Splendid! Seeing as we are in agreement, let us cut to the chase immediately."

Virion walks to a crate and rummages through it before he shows me some of its contents in his hands.

"Wigs?" I ask flabbergasted.

The Bow Knight nods smiling. "Indeed, wigs. I mean no offense, Jack, but your current hairstyle is an absolute fashion disaster for weddings, more so since you are the bridegroom."

"Hey, that's just mean!"

He continues without pause. "While it is possible to simply have a few servants style your hair in preparation for the wedding, I highly doubt you would like the result beyond the ceremony. Hence, I came up with the idea to let you wear a wig, for the sole purpose of letting you find a matching hairstyle for your garb. Fear not, these accessories are designed to fit on any head and remain there, even in case of riding a mad steed. Yet, with a few deft movements, they come off as easily as removing a glove from your hand."

I take one more look at the wigs in Virion's hands. I can't decide which one looks gaudier. And I'll be damned before I'm caught wearing something that garish on my head. Following this line of reasoning, I choose the only sensible option.

"Nope!" *Whoosh! Crash!*

I jump out through the nearest window and make my escape from the palace grounds. If I can just lay low in the capital for a few days, I should be able to stay safe until that harebrained idea dies out and I can prepare for the wedding with my dignity intact. I-

*Whish!* "Yipes!"

Where in the world did this snare come from?! The gates are right there! I'm so close!

"I thought you'd try to escape through here." I hear my fiancée remark. I rotate in the trap just enough to have her right in my field of vision. "So I had Donnel prepare a few traps near the most probable points of exit to halt your escape long enough for the rest of us to catch up to you."

"Robin?"

"When I told you I would drag you through the same hell I went through, I meant every word, Jack." the Grandmaster tells me smugly while she crosses her arms. "So, you either comply and cooperate with us willingly, or you can try to fight it, only for me to foil you at every step. The choice is yours."

"I never took you for the cruel type, Robin."

"It's called "payback", my love."

"*Sigh* Can't they just let us have the final say in the wedding preparations while merely providing, oh, I don't know, suggestions?"

Robin rolls her eyes. "Yeah, try telling Maribelle that."

My mind flashes back to what Gaius told me about what happened to Frederick. A resigned groan escapes my lips. "There's no way out of this, is there?"

"Not peacefully, no."

I raise my hands in surrender. Or, do I lower them, considering my position? Whatever.

"Fine. You win. I'll play along with Maribelle's little dress up."

"WHAT did you call my careful wedding planning, Jack?!" a venomous voice hisses from my left. Well, speak of the devil. Maribelle approaches, and every step rings like a funeral bell.

I gulp and turn back to Robin with a silent plea for help in my eyes. "I just signed my own death sentence, didn't I?"

Robin pinches the bridge of her nose. "Yes, Jack, you did."


"Ow ow ow ow ow!"

Robin rolls her eyes. "Oh, quit whining. You only have yourself to blame for drawing Maribelle's ire like that."

We're currently sitting on Robin's bed, where she's wrapping bandage around my arm. If I didn't know any better, I'd think Maribelle managed to figure out the Raging Demon – parasol edition.

"Well, at least it got me down." I mutter. "Ow!"

"Only you would consider suffering an assault, that even put Frederick on medical leave, a means to escape a trap, Jack." Robin comments flatly.

"I appreciate that you take some of your time to dress my wounds, but do you have to wrap the bandages so tightly? That stings, Robin!"

"Then let the pain be a reminder of where your recklessness gets you. Don't you use a similar method to train your subordinates?"

"Teammates." I correct.

"Fine. Teammates."

"Well, you're not wrong. Frederick might've rubbed off on me more than I thought."

Robin ties the bandage a few more times around my arm before she fastens it. She nods, satisfied with her handiwork.

"There, that should do it. Make sure to take it easy for a few days, and you should be right as rain."

I move my arm a little. There's still some pain, but nothing I can't handle.

"Thank you. By the way, if you wanted to get me involved in the wedding preparations, you could've just told me instead of shoving your lips onto mine. How did you even learn that thing with the tongue?"

Robin's face turns pink as she averts her eyes. "Well, I figured that it might be a good idea to, ah, prepare for when we're married, so I borrowed one of Cordelia's books. It's named "Make him fall for you in a fortnight"."

I give my fiancée a flat stare. "Oh, sure. I'm not allowed to put any intimate images in your head before our wedding, but it's completely appropriate and fine for you to read Cordelia's adult romance books and melt my mind with a knockout kiss. Yeah, real fair, Robin."

A smug smile grows on her face, though the blush remains. "Oh, you think I'm a knockout kisser?"

I gingerly touch my lips where Robin delivered the devastating move. My face heats up until its color matches Robin's. "This isn't over Robin. When we get married, I will pay you back for this."

Robin laughs at my answer. "Are we really using intimate acts as a means to get back at each other in some petty lover's spat? We're an odd couple, aren't we?"

I smile at her. "Well, I can think of worse ways we could handle this. At least this way, our little conflict can still bring us closer." I avert my eyes while trying to find my robe. "Though we should probably go our separate ways for now. We're dangerously close to crossing the line prematurely – again."

Robin nods as her face starts glowing. "Y-yeah. I guess I'll see you later?"

Not trusting my own voice, I simply nod and cast her one last glance before I exit her room. I close the door, lean against it and let out a shuddering breath. Naga above, I want her so badly! The tight feeling in my pants tells me how close I am to my breaking point. According to what Maribelle mentioned while going berserk on me, we're approximately two months away from the wedding if everything goes smoothly. My restraints are straining even after one. The next two months will be torture! TORTURE!


Timeskip: The big day

I give my reflection a flat look. "I look ridiculous."

"Nonsense, my friend!" Virion protests form my left. "Your wedding garb is the very epitome of formal wear. Every inch of fabric, every accessory and decoration, every seam has been handpicked and applied with such mastery that the bards will sing of the marvelous execution and craftsmanship."

We're currently in a room adjacent to the main hall in the capital's cathedral. Our topic of conversation is said garb, which I'm currently wearing. It's mainly navy blue with some yellow accents at the end of the sleeves and on the collar. The shoulders are decorated with red tassels, and a gold chain runs from my left shoulder to a breast pocket, for no reason other than aesthetics. Pants of a matching shade of blue cover my legs. To top it all off, I wear shoes of polished black leather and white gloves.

I look like some military commander who wanted a civilian version of his uniform, not a man who's about to be married!

"The only reason you're singing such high praises about the work is because you orchestrated the main portion of it. I can smell the self-praise from leagues away." I tell Virion.

Said Bow Knight places a hand on his chest in mock hurt. "You wound me, good sir! I did this all for your sake! Who do you even take me for?"

"Master archer, drama queen, philanderer, snob." I answer without missing a beat.

Stahl rubs his chin. "Sounds about right."

Ricken shrugs. "Can't argue with that."

Gaius smirks. "He's got you there, Ruffles."

Virion huffs. "Plebians, all of you! Is there no one here who appreciates a work of art when they see it?"

I adjust the collar one last time. "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, Virion. Still, I have little choice but to accept this as it is. It's not like we have enough time to make another wedding suit."

Virion nods proudly. "Yes, putting everything together took much work indeed. At the very least, I should be happy that you accept the fruit of our hard work. Now, since the garb is ready, how about we try finding you a fitting wi-"

The Bow Knight stops abruptly as he finds a Traced 3rd Kitetsu against his throat.

"Put. Away. The wigs." I tell him coldly.

Virion gulps. "Ah, very well. I suppose that concludes your final wedding preparations."

I raise an eyebrow. "Speaking of which, I'm amazed you managed to have your wedding right on schedule while helping in preparing mine."

The Bow Knight waves off my concerns. "Oh, there was no reason to worry. Among my dear Olivia's many talents, careful planning and good work ethic are two of them. In fact, we more or less completed the preparations for our wedding shortly after I was involved in preparing for yours."

I smirk. "So, does that mean Olivia's the only reason anything gets done between the two of you?"

Virion looks at me in offended shock. "I beg your pardon?!"

I laugh it off. "Ah, it's just a jest, Virion. In all seriousness, though, I'm impressed with the amount of forethought you and Olivia put into your wedding preparations."

"Why, of course." the Bow Knight replies with a proud smile. "It was our big day, after all. Nothing short of a comprehensive list of arrangements, completed well before the set date, will do."

The rest of us roll our eyes.

"Sure. Whatever you say, Virion." Ricken replies in a bored tone.

Lon'qu walks in through the dressing room's door, garbed in custom tailored clothes for the event. Lissa wouldn't leave him alone until he agreed on having them made, since I decided that he'll be my best man.

"If you five are done with your banter, I suggest you head for the main hall. It's almost time."

I nod at the Swordmaster. "All right, lead the way."


Lugia's song, Pokémon the movie 2 000: the power of one OST

Breathe in, breathe out. Breathe in, breathe out. Breeeaathe…

"If I knew you'd be such a nervous wreck, I would've brought a training sword to smack you around before getting up to the altar with you." Lon'qu tells me flatly from my left.

"I can't help it, okay?!" I snap at my best man. "Yeesh. All this waiting, and now that I'm here, it feels just like before I confessed to her."

The Swordmaster rolls his eyes. "Will you quit with the drama already? Seeing you this jittery for a mere ceremony is just embarrassing, especially since I know you're made of sturdier stuff than this."

"He is right, Jack." Libra comments. "As nerve-wracking as this may be for you, remember that this is your wedding day. It is a day of celebration."

"Easy for you two to say." I mutter. "Neither of you are at the center of attention and giving marital vows here."

Libra is about to retort when the cathedral bells ring. The entire hall falls silent. I can feel my heart beat like a war drum inside my chest. She'll be here any second now. Deep breaths, Jack. Keep it cool.

The moment I hear the gates creak open, I snap my head towards the entrance.

Oh my…

Oh my…GOODNESS!

The entire wedding dress is made of white cloth with silver woven into the fabric, to the point that its color almost matches Robin's hair. Heck, with her hair falling free, I can't tell where it ends and where the dress begins! The top half fits her like a glove, while the bottom half seems to wave and billow like waves as she walks down the aisle. And despite wearing a thin veil, I can tell she's looking at me.

My word… She almost looks ethereal in that dress. This is the woman that I fell in love with? She looks out of this world! The only thing reminding me that she's still a physical being is the clicking sound of her shoes on the stone floor as Chrom leads her to the altar. We agreed that Chrom would do it, seeing as Robin has no memory of, nor any contact with, her family. Chrom was simply the next best choice we could think of.

Robin ascends the steps slowly. At the top, Chrom walks off to the side to stand beside Lon'qu as Robin comes to a stop in front of me. It's only now that I can see through her veil – and her smile melts away my nervousness.

I release the breath I didn't even know I was holding. "Wow…"

"Glad you approve." Robin whispers back.

Libra clears his throat and opens his tome.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness these two people unite in holy matrimony. Though I have only known them for a short time, I have had the honor of seeing their friendship blossom into love. A love, pure and true. There are times when life becomes difficult. Accidents occur that may rob us of what we hold dear. Disagreements lead to bickering that cause a rift between us. Sickness strikes when we least expect it. But none of that should ever make us forget the happiness that we share together. The days where we smile should give us strength for the days when those smiles vanish. Our laughter brings light when all seems dark. It is true that nothing is perfect. This world is not perfect. But it is there for us, trying its best it can. And that is what makes it so beautiful. So it is with marriage as well. The sorrowful days come with the happy ones, but it is only when we share both that the love it is built on attains its true beauty."

The War Monk turns to Robin. "So I ask you, Robin; Do you take Jack as your lawfully wedded husband? To love him in health, as in sickness? In wealth, as in poverty? Through happy times, as in sad times, until death do you apart?"

"I do."

Even though her words were quiet, I could hear them loud and clear. As could I hear the raw emotion in her voice. You might as well skip asking me Libra, because I know exactly how I'll answer!

"And I ask you, Jack; Do you take Robin as your lawfully wedded wife? To love her in health as in sickness? In wealth, as in poverty? Through happy times, as in sad times, until death do you apart?"

I reach forward and grasp Robin's hands gently. "More than anything in the world."

Libra smiles at our acceptance before he faces the audience. "If anyone objects to these two being wed, then speak now, or forever hold your peace."

You could hear a pin drop in the hall. After letting the silence hang for a few moments, Libra speaks up again.

"Then by the power vested in me, and the grace of Naga, I hereby pronounce you husband and wife!" He turns to me. "You may kiss the bride."

I slowly lift the veil in front of Robin's face. A lone tear has escaped her eye. I bring her into an embrace and place my forehead against hers.

"My heart is yours – forever." I whisper.

Our lips meet among the cheers filling the cathedral hall.

Your relationship with Robin has gained a new aspect! You and Robin are now "Husband and Wife"!

BGM ends


Quest alert
Side quest: 'Til Game Over do us apart
Not only did the woman you love return your feelings, you've taken it to the point that you've exchanged marital vows in front of the altar! Life is filled with both laughter and tears, joy and hardship. Come what may, make sure that you share those moments together. That's what marriage is about. Now, get a room! The sexual tension between you two is so thick, you could cut it with a butter knife!
Objective: Get married.
Objective cleared!
Rewards:
You gain 3 000 EXP! Happy honeymoon!


After the customary congratulations coming from every conceivable direction, we moved on to our wedding reception. Robin and I decided pretty early that we want to keep it a simple affair, with only our closest friends and comrades invited. As such, we're now gathered in front of the Shepherds' barracks, where tables have been lined up in rows for everyone to sit. For our wedding reception, we only invited the Shepherds, Emmeryn, Phila and my team. Still, that's over a hundred people gathered among those tables. Needless to say, the guys had to bring a lot of tables and chairs.

It all worked out in the end, though. There's plenty of food to go around, and everyone found a seat without any table getting cramped. Of course, Robin and I have our own table in front of everyone else.

The fact that both the table and the chairs are extra decorated hints at how detailed Lissa's and Maribelle's planning was. The attention to detail has Frederick's name written all over it.

Everyone's finally seated. That's when Virion rises up with a cup in hand.

"A toast! For our dear comrades and newlyweds, Jack and Robin!"

Cheers rise from everyone gathered in response. From that point on, toasts are proposed for all manner of reasons (most of them coming from Vaike).

Me? I'm busy sitting at my table and enjoying a delicious meal with Robin while observing the growing spectacle among the tables. The toasting has pretty much spiraled into half a drinking game between the more adventurous Shepherds and my rowdier teammates. Frederick and Phila desperately try to contain the ensuing chaos, to little effect. Stahl and Panne are attacking the food with gusto (with Panne sticking strictly to the vegetarian dishes).

Robin's laughter at watching everyone party rings in my ears through it all. This is the reason we wanted to keep things simple. It's easier to enjoy the celebration this way, rather than some stuffy banquet with dozens of snobs that neither me nor Robin know of, like how Chrom and Cordelia did for their wedding reception.

"Phew! Here at last."

Everyone stops partying as they turn to where the familiar voice came from.

Wouldn't you know it – it's Anna. That is, Anna from the capital, alongside another Anna. This particular Anna is much lighter clothed than any other Anna I've met in this world.

"Wait a minute." I say as I rise from my seat. "I remember you. You're the Anna I met when I went to the weapons capital during my travels."

Said lightly clothed Anna points at me triumphantly. "Aha! Finally found you. And in the nick of time too!"

Robin raises an eyebrow. "Jack, what's going on?"

"Well, one of the places I visited during my travels was a town that specializes in forging weapons." I explain. "That's where I had Harvest Moon made."

The Anna nods happily. "Yup. Me and my sisters have forged many weapons during our career, but yours was just insane! If it wasn't for you introducing us to those adorable little fluffy merchants, we never would've managed to figure out where to even start."

"And you practically ripped a hole in my purse in the process." I tell the Outrealm blacksmith bluntly. Seriously, the fee they charged for making Harvest Moon was astronomical! It's only because I ended up farming so much gold that I didn't end up broke by the time the payment was made.

If there's one thing I regret (aside from not realizing my love for Robin sooner), it's letting the redheaded family meet up with those blasted Moogle merchants. The two groups formed an unholy alliance that's already spreading their wicked business ways all across the universe. I have unleashed a terrible existence in the Anna-Moogle merchant union.

Ylisstol's Anna smiles cheerfully. "I certainly don't complain. Those Moogles are the best business partners us girls could ask for!"

I sigh and rub my head. "Well, you didn't travel all the way here just to congratulate me on the wedding, did you?"

Outrealm Anna snaps her fingers. "Oh, yeah, I almost forgot! I never got to thank you for what you did for my family! You were just another traveler passing through our town, but when news reached that my sisters were trapped with those red-eyed monsters, you ran straight up the mountain and saved them."

I scratch my cheek. "Yeah, I remember that incident. I just couldn't leave them hanging like that. Not when I saw how horrified you got over the thought of losing them."

The blacksmith smiles somberly. "Well, family has to stick together. If there's one thing I love more than money, it's my sisters. They mean the world to me."

She rummages in her backpack and hands me two golden pieces of paper. I raise an eyebrow.

"And those are…?"

"I never got to thank you properly for saving my sisters. So when I heard you're getting married, I knew just the thing to give you."

The Anna from Ylisstol nods. "See, one of our third-removed cousins runs a vacation resort in the Outrealms. We pulled some strings, and arranged these tickets for your honeymoon. Two weeks on the beach, with food and lodging included. You're free to visit her shop, but you'll have to pay from your own pockets if you're buying anything there."

I look at the golden tickets in a whole new light. Considering how much the Annas can charge for their business, a two-week vacation on a tropical resort makes these tickets worth their weight in gold, and then some. There might be a problem, though. I turn to Chrom.

"Hey, Chrom. You wouldn't mind if Robin and I go on leave for two weeks, would you?"

The prince scratches his head. "That…might be tough. Both of you have heavy responsibilities to fulfill."

"Oh, let them, Chrom." Emmeryn says. "I remember your and Cordelia's honeymoon effectively lasted about as long as that, and the halidom was completely fine, even in your absence."

"Actually, you might not need that much time." Outrealm Anna interjects. "See, one of the perks with that particular Outrealm is that time moves much faster there. It's so that visitors can enjoy their vacations in full without worrying about being away for too long."

Ylisstol Anna nods. "Yup. If my calculations are still up to speed, I'd say a week on that resort equals roughly…one day here."

I nod in thought before I turn back to Chrom. "All right. How about three days' leave, then?"

Chrom nods with a smile. "That sounds acceptable. We'll do our best to cover for you in the meantime."

"Great! It's settled then." Outrealm Anna declares. "I'll let our cousin by the gate know, so she can pick you two up. When do you leave?"

I turn to Robin. "What do you say? Does tomorrow sound good?"

She nods smiling. "Tomorrow sounds great. Two weeks, just the two of us. I've never been to this "beach" before, so I'm excited about what we'll find there."

"All right, it's a date." Ylisstol Anna declares. "Tomorrow it is."


Robin laughs merrily as I carry her over the threshold of our new room in a princess carry. This room could be considered our wedding gift from the royal siblings. It's basically a guest room that's been refurnished for me and Robin to take up a more permanent residence in. Most of Robin's stuff was brought here from her old room, making about half of it her personal study. The room otherwise came with plenty of comforts reserved for visiting dignitaries, including a plush four-post bed with more than enough room for the both of us, as well as its own bathroom.

I let my wife down on the floor while using some Telekinesis to close and lock the door. As the lock clicks shut, Robin brings me into an embrace. Her eyes are full of affection and longing, all directed towards me.

"I have waited for this moment for a long time, Jack." Robin tells me. "It's just the two of us now."

I return the embrace and smile back. "You have no idea how agonizing the wait was. Seeing you every day for these past three months, pining for your touch where no one has touched me before."

Robin slowly unbuttons my jacket. "Why don't you tell me all about it over at the bed? I'd be happy to hear your every thought, expressed in any way you like."

I reach behind her and search carefully until I find the buttons holding up her dress. The buttons come off one by one. "I would, but I have a feeling that you're eager to tell me something as well. I'll hear what you have to say first."

"Only two words." Robin leans in to whisper. "Take me."

Our lips crash together with desire that we've pent up for three long months. A few seconds later, we fall down on the bed. Clothes fly everywhere.


AN: The following scene may be inappropriate for anyone under the age of 18. If you've yet to reach that age, please proceed to the next AN.


"Yes! Oh~ yes! Jack! More!"

How long have we been at it? I lost track of the time way back. The only thing I can think about is that I don't. Want. This. To. END!

"If only…" I grunt. "…this moment could last…forever!"

"Yes! Oh gods, YEEESS~~!"

Robin tenses up underneath me before clinging everywhere to my body – even where we're joined by the hip. At the same time, a feeling akin to a lightning bolt pierces through my entire being, only to be replaced a few seconds later with the most intense feeling of pleasure I've ever felt.

I take a few moments to catch my breath. By the blessings of Ashera, that was crazy! Now I finally understand why people my age back home kept hyping up the whole "getting it on" thing.

By the time my heart stops beating like a subwoofer on a techno rave, I finally take the time to check how Robin is holding up.

She's gasping for air like she just finished one of Frederick's fanatical fitness hours. Her hair is matted with sweat. Her eyes show a curious mix of affection, desire, satisfaction and pride.

It's the single most beautiful sight I've ever seen in my life.

As Robin's breathing calms down, she finally loosens up on her clinging to my body. A tired, but happy sigh escapes her lips as she relaxes completely underneath me. I kiss her on the lips tenderly.

"I had no idea it felt this good." I whisper.

"Me neither." she whispers back. "No wonder Chrom and Cordelia do it so often."

"If this is what marriage is like, I look forward to every night where we'll share a bed together."

"So do I. Though I don't think I want every night to be as intense as this one."

"You need only give the word. I did promise to make you the happiest woman in the world, and this looks like one of the ways I'll fulfill that promise."

"I'm amazed at how dedicated you are at going that extra mile for me, Jack." Robin caresses my cheek gently. "Promise me you won't overdo it. I don't want you to sacrifice yourself for my happiness. If you really want to go that far, then let me walk with you."

I smile and place my forehead against hers. "I will. Thank you, Robin. For everything you've done for me, and everything you will do for me."

I get ready to pull out when I notice something strange. Little-me is still raring to go, even though I reached the peak of ecstasy less than two minutes ago. Huh. Must be one of those strange hidden perks that come with having the body of a videogame character.

Well, who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth?

I wiggle my hips, which makes the breath hitch in Robin's throat upon feeling little-me move around inside of her, still at full size.

"Wanna do it again?" I ask her with a big grin.

Robin's breathing quickly turns to hyperventilating. Her pupils shrink and start shaking.

I raise an eyebrow in concern. "Uh, are you all right, Ro- Mm-mmph!"

I'll just assume "searing lip lock" equals "yes" – in both cases.


AN: And now we return to the (relatively) more child friendly content.


You have slept in a bed. HP and MP have been fully restored. All negative status conditions have been removed.

I blink my eyes blearily as I wake up from sleeping for the first time since…

Now that I think about it, this is the first time I've truly ever slept since the day I woke up on that field in southern Ylisse and this whole crazy adventure began.

The sun shines through the windows. If I strain my ears enough, I can hear birds chirping outside. I let out a satisfied sigh. That was, by far, the most satisfying night of sleep I've ever had in my life. And the main reason rests right on my bare chest.

I slowly part the curtain of silver hair to find my wife snoring softly, naked as the day when she was born. She looks so peaceful, sleeping like a child and hugging me like I'm a body-sized pillow. In fact, I think I can spot the ghost of a satisfied smile on her lips. I should know. We both got a new skill on our wedding night and spent Naga-knows how long leveling it up before we fell asleep.


Sexual prowess, Lvl 10 [24 %], Active, Cost: 0 MP
Bumping uglies, rolling in the hay, horizontal tango, or simply making love. The most intimate pleasure known to man has many names and can be done in more ways than has ever been written in any single book. This skill represents your ability to please your beloved when the two of you decide to get up close and personal in bed, on the table, outside, or wherever the heck you think is a good spot (You horny animals…). The greater your skill level, the more satisfied your beloved will be. Remember, a healthy sex life is part of a healthy romance, but it's far from everything.


Best. Wedding night. Ever.

Robin slowly stirs awake on top of me. She raises her head and looks me in the eyes while blinking her eyes blearily. I stroke her hair softly.

"Good morning, love. Sleep well?" I ask her.

Robin smiles before she places her head back on my chest and sighs contently.

"Best night of sleep I've ever had. Last night was just… Wow."

I embrace her tenderly. "I couldn't say it better myself. And that was just our first night together."

"You don't expect us to do that every night, do you?" Robin mumbles tiredly against my chest. "As wonderful as it was, I don't think I've ever felt so exhausted as when we finally fell asleep last night."

"Fair enough." I reply. "It's only appropriate if we both want it at the same time."

I glance at my in-game clock. It's just past 10.

"We should prepare to leave." I tell Robin. "Anna mentioned that our ride to our honeymoon would arrive this morning, and we've more than overslept."

Out of nowhere, I feel Robin grasp my manhood. She raises her head back up and gives me some deep bedroom eyes.

"Oh, I think she won't mind if we make her wait a little longer, do you?"

I raise an eyebrow. "Really, Robin? I thought you said you were exhausted by the time we fell asleep."

"Yes, but now I'm all rested up. Besides, our union felt amazing, and I, for one, am up for more."

"Look, as wonderful as it was, just grabbing me down there isn't enough to change my mi-hi-HIII~~~!"

On the other hand, stimulating that part of my anatomy with lightning magic will.

Robin's smile turns smug. "You were saying?"

"Bwuh… How…"

"How did I learn to use lightning magic like this?"

Ho-ho-holy Dragonstones, that feels good!

"Well, Miriel found an interesting research project among the many letters she receives from her colleagues. It theorized about how to stimulate a man's, ah, sensitive parts with magic. She decided to try it out herself, and when we have our talks, she occasionally mentions how passionate her love life with Kellam has become. She was more than happy to teach me."

It's always the quiet ones… If I ever see Miriel, I need to thank her for redefining the phrase "magical night in bed" and teaching Robin how to make it happen.

Aaand cerebral reboot complete.

"Ah… I, uh… I suppose Anna won't mind if we keep her waiting for a few more minutes."

"I knew you'd see things my way."


Timeskip: An hour and a half later

Ah, what a wonderful day it is.

I'm walking out of the palace with a massive, goofy grin on my face. Robin is at my side, walking with a notable limp in her step, hugging my right arm, and smiling so brightly that she could put the sun to shame.

"Well, you two sure took your sweet time, didn't you?"

We turn to our left and spot Anna with a sour expression and tapping her foot on the ground impatiently.

My grin turns even bigger. "Oh, it was sweet, all right."

The redhead rolls her eyes. "Newlyweds. I swear…" She walks up to a horse drawn cart and takes the reins. "Come on. My cousin at the resort is waiting, and time's a wastin'."

I'm about to climb onto the cart when Robin tugs on the sleeve of my robe. Her expression looks apprehensive. "Jack, I… I don't think I can climb up." she tells me embarrassed and blushing.

I raise a confused eyebrow in reply. "Why not?"

The blush grows a few shades deeper. "Because I'm too sore!"

I blink before realization dawns on me. I scratch the back of my head. "Oh, uh… Sorry."

"Don't be. I wouldn't trade this feeling for anything. But I'll need help if I want to get on that cart."

I smile at her. "That won't be a problem. Hold on."

Robin yelps as I pick her up in a princess carry and jump up on the cart. Right as I land, I sit down and place her on my lap.

"See? Problem solved." I declare. I then hug her tight and snuggle into her. "And for the entire trip to the Outrealm gate, I'll make sure you're comfortable."

Robin giggles. "That's so sweet of you."

Anna facepalms. "Ugh! If I knew you two would be this bad, I would've dumped the cart ride on my baby sister. By the way, where's your luggage?"

"Coming right up." I reply and indicate the entrance to the palace.

A pair of clones walk out, each carrying a bag.

"Why does Boss always get to do the fun stuff?" one of my clones mutters.

"Tell me about it." the other replies as they dump the bags in the cart. "We're always saddled with the dirty work and grinding, while he gets to experiment on crazy stuff and cuddle with our bae-" *Poof*

I sigh as I recieve the memory feedback from the clones I just dispelled. Do they have to complain so much?

"Your copies have a surprising amount of personality." Robin muses.

"If by that you mean "whiny like spoiled brats", then, yes. They have plenty of personality."

My wife raises an eyebrow. "I thought they're essentially copies of yourself. Does that mean your personality matches theirs?"

"That's the worst part. I want to say "no", but evidence implies otherwise."

"Well, are you comfortable back there, lovebirds?" Anna asks. "We're off."

The redhead snaps the reins. The cart goes into motion. Next stop; the beach resort.


Timeskip: Two hours later

BGM: Gelato Beach, Super Mario Sunshine music

White sand under our feet, sparkling blue ocean water reaching land in small waves, the sun shining down with hardly a cloud to obscure the light, seagulls flying overhead, and just the perfect temperature to walk around topless.

I take a deep breath and enjoy the slight sea breeze coming from the ocean. We just arrived, and the beach resort already lives up to its reputation.

Robin looks around as she takes in the sights. "This place is beautiful. No wonder people come here for their vacation."

"I know, right?" Anna adds cheerfully. "Though you might want to change into thinner clothing. With how hot the weather is here almost every day, the clothes you're wearing right now will have you sweat buckets in a matter of minutes."

Robin opens up her coat a bit. "You bring up a good point, Anna. The insides of my coat feel like a furnace."

"Which is why I'll take you to the best establishment on this beach." the redhead declares.

Anna leads us to a quite sizable hut located right where the beach ends and the local tropical vegetation begins. The hut is named "The secret shack", if the sign hanging outside is anything to go by. Yeah, it has "Anna" written all over it.

Robin and I begin looking at the wares on sale as we enter. Beach balls, inflatable tubes, sun cream, towels, accessories. This place has almost everything you need for a day at the beach. Only thing missing would be the swimwear. And possibly ice cream.

"Hello! Anyone home?" Anna calls out.

Another Anna enters from behind some curtains further into the shop. Unlike other Annas I've met over the years, this one only wears a bikini. "Well, look who finally decided to drop by. Nice seeing you again, Cousin."

"Hey, Cousin." our guide greets back smiling. "Sorry about the delay. These two lovebirds decided to sleep in, so we ended up behind schedule. Well, better late than never, right?"

"Right you are." Bikini Anna replies. Then she waggles her eyebrows. "Sleeping in, or could it be something more…raunchy?"

Gate Anna rolls her eyes. "Considering how lovey-dovey these two were all the way to the gate, I'd bet on the latter."

"We're right here, you know." I tell the two redheads flatly while Robin tries to hide against my chest (D'aw, that's so adorable.).

"Oh, we know." Gate Anna replies shamelessly. Then she heads for the exit. "Well, my part's done here. I'll pick you two up in two weeks. They're all yours, Cousin. Have fun!"

With that, she's gone. Barely a second later, Bikini Anna claps her hands together.

"All right, then. First order of business will be getting you out of your stuffy clothing and into some swimsuits."

I raise an eyebrow. "About that. I haven't seen any swimwear on display ever since we entered your shop."

"Oh, that's because they have their own little section. Right this way."

Anna leads us through the curtains we saw her come out from earlier. Both Robin and I look around in awe at what we see on the other side. The walls are lined with racks upon racks holding all kinds of swimwear. And almost two thirds are distinctly of the feminine variant.

"I normally let my customers pick their own swimwear, but in your case, I've got something special prepared, free of charge." Anna tells us. She walks up and gently pries Robin off me. "Ladies first."

"H-hey! What do you think you're doing?" Robin protests.

"Taking you to the changing room, of course." Anna replies like it's obvious. "What? You want to change into your commemorative swimsuit in front of your hubby?"

Robin's face turns as red as Anna's hair at the suggestion.

"Um… Lead the way…"

The two women walk behind a curtained booth near the back. The place falls silent.

"You can't be serious!" I hear Robin shout indignant from the changing room.

"Aw, come on!" Anna replies. "Do you have any idea how much I had to work to recreate this? He'll love it. Trust me."

"B-but it's… Gods, it's almost like I'll put myself on display."

"Look, if you feel too uncomfortable, I'll help you find something to cover yourself a bit more, okay?"

"…O-okay…"

Anna walks out of the changing room soon after. "Your turn, handsome."

"What did you hand my wife?" I ask her apprehensively.

Anna waves off my concern. "Oh, don't worry about it. It's not like there's any part of her that you haven't seen already."

I narrow my eyes at the redhead. "I swear, if you make her dress like a harlot, there will be hell to pay."

"Yeesh, cool down, hotshot. I know the swimwear tends to show a lot of skin, but I made sure she won't wear anything too outlandish. Honest. Besides, if neither of you like it, I could always help her find something more conservative."

"*Sigh* All right, then. Lead the way."

Anna leads me to a dressing room beside the one Robin went in to. As I enter, I spot the swimwear she had prepared for me; a pair of black swimming trunks – with the symbol of team Dai-Gurenn embroidered on the right leg.

I give an appreciative whistle. "Nice. I like the design."

"I got this request specifically from Old man Hubba." Anna explains. "He told me that it's a well-known symbol in certain circles in your home world. At least this way, you'll wear a reminder of your home."

I give the symbol a nostalgic look. "Thanks. I appreciate the gesture. I know that my life now is by Robin's side, but this… Hopefully, this symbol will serve as a reminder of my roots for me."

"We aim to please here in the Hotrealms." Anna declares proudly. "Well, I'll leave you alone to change in peace."

Anna soon pulls the curtain shut, leaving me with the black swimming trunks.

Well, might as well get changed. It's a good thing I brought my trusty bag. Honestly, I wonder why we bothered packing bags for our honeymoon at all, since my bag can fit all of it and more without any problem. Ah, well. I can just have a pair of clones lug that stuff around again. For now, everything on my body goes into the bag. I'm about to reach for the swimming trunks when I hear Robin from the other side of the wall.

"Jack? Are you there?"

I lean against the wall between us. "I can hear you loud and clear, Robin."

I hear Robin let out a sigh. "This feels so strange. I've never worn so little clothes before. This "swimsuit" looks more like smallclothes to me. Is it…really all right if I walk around in public while wearing it?"

"While I don't know what kind of swimsuit Anna offered you, I'm pretty sure it looks a lot like the swimsuits from my home world. Would you believe me if I told you the clothes she wears is considered normal and acceptable when visiting the beaches in my home world?"

I could, of course, take a peek with Mind's eye to find out what swimsuit Anna picked for my wife, but the moment that thought entered my head, every marital instinct in my heart beat it down with extreme prejudice. I refuse to ogle my wife like a piece of meat. She deserves far better than that.

"In what world would that be normal?" Robin asks skeptically. "I'm practically naked with this thing on."

I slip on the swimming trunks. "Look, if you don't feel comfortable with it, I think it's for the best if you ask Anna for something more conservative."

"W-well… Would you mind if I wore it?"

"I honestly don't mind, Robin. I love you for you. I do mind, however, if it makes you feel uncomfortable."

"No, I… I think I do want to wear it after all. F-for your sake."

I raise an eyebrow. "For real? It's not like I'm wearing my swimwear for your sake, so I fail to see why you would do it for mine."

"You said it yourself; you love me for me. And I do the same. So I want to wear this swimsuit – to show my appreciation for you."

I smile. "This coming from the one who asked me not to sacrifice myself for your happiness? The choice is ultimately up to you, Robin. Just know that if any man looks at you with any less-than-pure intents, I will get violent."

Robin giggles. "Thank you, Jack. All right, I've made up my mind. I choose this swimsuit."

"Are you two done changing yet?" we hear Anna ask from outside the changing rooms.

"I'm done for my part." I reply while I fasten my bag around my waist. Thank goodness I got a separate belt for it during my travels, or else I wouldn't be able to carry it around in my current attire.

I exit the changing room, with most of my slim, muscular physique bared to the world. Anna whistles in appreciation.

"Hello, stud. Bet the ladies would flock to you if they saw what you're packing under that coat of yours."

I snort. "They can try. But it doesn't matter how attractive they think they are. No one can hold a candle to Robin."

The redhead bats her eyelashes and strikes a shy pose. "Not even me, handsome?"

"Not even close." I reply without hesitation.

Anna's mood deflates instantly. "Way to go, ruining a girl's mood like that. But I suppose I could let it slide, what with you being newlywed and everything."

"It's called "true love"."

"Sure. Whatever floats your boat."

"Um… I think I'm finished too." we hear Robin call from her changing room.

"Well, what are you waiting for?" Anna asks, cheerful mood back in an instant. "Come on out!"

"O-okay."

The moment Robin steps out, I feel my face heat up to the point that I swear steam pours out from my ears. By the Lunarian crystals, Robin's wearing the Bravo Bikini (minus the boots and gloves)! And it's a perfect fit!

"Bwuh… Blaa…"

"See? I told you he'll like it." Anna declares proudly.

Robin hugs herself with a blush on her face. "I think I'm fine with the upper part, but could you help me find something to cover my lower half? I'm glad Jack likes the view, but I want most of it to be for his eyes only."

"Aw, that's so sweet." Anna gushes. "I have just the thing. Wait here."

She walks through the curtains, leaving only Robin and me.

Come on, brain, work with me here. I know my wife is beautiful, and I know she looks smoking hot in the Bravo Bikini, but she's more than just her body. Get back out of the gutter already!

"Um, Jack? Are you still in there?" Robin asks.

I hold up a hand. "Give me a moment. I think my brain is still melted."

Deep breaths. Remember, you love her, no matter what she wears. She just happens to wear something so alluring, it's practically weaponized sexiness.

"Okay…" I sigh. "Okay. I'm good."

"I wonder how many heads I'll turn by wearing this." Robin muses with a small smile. "It's too revealing for my tastes, but a small part of me appreciates the thought of getting so much attention."

"Please don't entertain that thought." I mutter. "The mere thought of another man lusting after you while you wear any kind of clothing – and this one in particular – makes me feel murderous."

"Overreact much?"

"*Sigh* You might have a point. Though, how would you react if another woman tried to woo me?"

Robin bites her bottom lip. "Fair point. I'd place myself between the two of you and chase her off. And that's if she gets the hint the first time around."

"We're extremely possessive of each other, aren't we?"

"We sure are."

"Ah, here we are." Anna declares as she returns from behind the curtain. She hands Robin a pink sarong. "Try this on."

Robin raises an eyebrow as she unfolds the garment and places it around her shoulders. While it does cover her upper body, her lower half is still very much visible.

"No, not like that." Anna corrects her. "Here. Let me show you."

In short order, Robin has the sarong tied around her waist, making it look like a long skirt with a slit going all the way up her left side.

"And now, for the final touch." Anna declares. She pulls out a hair clip with a red hibiscus flower that she fastens in Robin's hair.

Robin places her hands behind her back and faces me. "Soo… How do I look?"

I bring her in close. "Like the embodiment of beauty."

Anna starts to shoo us out. "All right, lovebirds. Get out on the beach and enjoy yourselves before you start filling my shop with hearts."

Ah. The bright sunny weather and high temperature feels good on my skin. I might need a pair of sunglasses if I want to enjoy the weather to its fullest.

BGM ends

My thoughts get interrupted by panicked screams coming from the beach. The three of us direct our gazes there and see the guests leaving in a hurry. A glance further down shows the cause of the commotion; bandits.

"Oh, not again!" Anna shouts. "Those brutes come over here every once in a while and hog the entire beach all for themselves. I can't run my business while they drive away all the visiting customers. Worse yet, this is terrible for this place's reputation."


Quest alert:
Side quest: Hazardous honeymoon 2
It's a beautiful day on the beach – perfect for spending the honeymoon with your beloved. There's only one real problem; brigands have invaded the beach and want it all for themselves. Unless they leave (or, at the very least, behave), you're in for two weeks of ruined romance.
Objective: Defeat all bandits.
Rewards: 3 000 EXP, 1 000 gold
Failure: Whatever plans you had for the honeymoon go down the drain. Oh, and you face your wife's wrath, no matter how well you explain the situation.


My survival instincts flare up on my right. I turn and see Robin glare at the bandits with more anger than I've ever seen her express. The pink aura around her body indicates that she just entered a state of Female Fury.

"How dare they…" she growls dangerously. "I won't stand by idly while those bandits ruin our honeymoon!"

I place a hand on her shoulder (very gently). "Easy, Robin. We only need to teach them a lesson. Want to take them on together?"

Robin cracks her knuckles. "With pleasure."

Considering her current emotional state, I have the perfect weapon to lend her. I rummage around in my bag a bit and hand her the good old Frying Pan.

"Here."

The moment the wooden handle lands in Robin's grasp, her pink aura envelops it and brings out its true form.

Robin gives the pan a few experimental swings. "Thank you, Jack. Now, if you'll excuse us, Anna…" Robin's voice turns notably darker. "…we have some bandits to beat up."

I follow right beside her. "This might be fun." I comment grinning. Sparks travel down my right arm. "Trace On."


One epic ass kicking later

The bandits are all lined up in a neat row in front of Anna's shop, kneeling and with their hands tied behind their backs. Every single one sports bruises, swollen eyes and cheeks, busted lips, missing teeth and freshly smoking bumps on top of the freshly smoking bumps on top of the freshly smoking bumps on top of their very abused heads.

Robin and I stand behind the bandits. Robin glares at the bandits while smacking the Frying pan against her palm menacingly. Every time the metal hits her palm, the bandits flinch in fright upon remembering the extreme pain they've suffered at my wife's hand.

I stand tall with a massive spiked club over my shoulder. This baby was designed and enchanted to inflict unholy amounts of pain, but never take a life. I call it: the Bat of Punishment.

I crouch down near the leader of the bandits and pull on his left cheek.

"Ow ow ow!"

"Now, what have we learned today?" I ask the bandit leader like I'm scolding a child.

"That causing trouble on the beach and scaring everyone away is mean." the bandit leader answers with a slight slur due to his messed up face.

"And?" I press.

"And it makes it hard for the nice lady over there to run her shop."

I tap my weapon against my shoulder while Robin smacks the pan especially hard against her palm. The bandits react accordingly.

"And?"

"And the only way to make this right is by working hard to help people know that being in this place is safe again!"

I nod approvingly. "Good. Now, apologize to the nice lady."

The bandits bow in their kneeling position with notable difficulty. Another smack from pan against palm makes them forget their pain and instead makes them speed up.

"We're sorry!" they shout in perfect sync and notable terror.

Anna looks at the beaten bandits with a sweatdrop. Then she looks at us. "Wow. If I knew you two could fight this well, I'd consider hiring you as security on this resort. I almost feel sorry for them, despite all the trouble these bandits have put me through."

I poke the bandit leader in the back of his head (which sports another bump, courtesy to Robin). "See? She even cares about you. What's the proper response?"

"We are not worthy!" the bandits shout in reverence.

I get up from my crouch and dispel the Bat of Discipline with a sigh. "Well, happy we got that over with."

Robin sighs as well as she hands me back the Frying pan. "Now what? This beach is completely empty after our battle. What's more, a lot of the chairs and other stuff got destroyed in the process."

"Leave that to me." I reply. One beach-wide Transmutation later, and the beach is back in pristine condition. I love FMA-style alchemy.

Anna and the bandits gape in shock.

"I'd never believe you could do that unless I got to see it with my own eyes." the redhead comments. "And here I thought I'd be busy all week cleaning this place up." A smile lights up on her face. "It's official; you two are the best visitors ever! Any chance I could offer you something for your stay here? I'll even add a discount."

Robin shakes her head with a small smile. "I think we'll take you up on that offer later." She walks up to me and hugs my arm. "Right now, we just want to enjoy our honeymoon in peace."

Anna nods sagely. "Right, right. Can't forget about that. Well, until the customers return, you have the entire beach for yourselves. Enjoy."


Quest alert:
Side quest: Hazardous honeymoon 2
What better way to start your honeymoon than joining your beloved in beating the ever-loving tar out of a bunch of unruly bandits? With the brutes cleared off the beach, the two of you are now free to enjoy some much-needed time alone. Have fun!
Objective: Defeat all bandits.
Objective cleared!
Rewards:
You gain 3 000 EXP! You gain 1 000 gold!


And so we do. Robin and I spend the days soaking up sunlight, playing in the water or exploring the nearby tropical forest near the beach. The nights, on the other hand, we enjoy in the hut where we're staying. Some nights emphasize cuddling, while others emphasize more…steamy activities. The fact that we show a lot of skin to each other all day does little more for our restraints other than undoing them. Not that we mind. We have a hard-enough time keeping our hands to ourselves until the evening anyway.

However, all good things must come to an end. So it is also with our honeymoon. Before we knew it, the two weeks were up. A quick trip later, we're back in front of the Outrealm gate outside Ylisse in our usual attires. There's a small difference in my case, though.

Remember when I considered buying a pair of sunglasses during my stay in the Hotrealms? Strangely enough, I happened upon a pair while paying Anna's beach shop another visit. And not just any sunglasses either. I don't know how the redhead pulled it off, but there was a perfect replica of Kamina's sunglasses proudly on display. Deciding to cover my need for shades, while silently paying my respects for the inspiring (if moronic) man, I bought them. Even as we return to the capital on the same horse-drawn cart that we left it in, I wear the red, pointy sunglasses on my forehead. Maybe I should put them in my bag soon. These things can be pretty fragile.

"Thanks for the ride." I tell Anna as I have a pair of clones unload our bags and bring them to mine and Robin's room.

"Happy to be of service." the redhead replies cheerfully. "If you ever need our services again, just give the call. We'll be right where you need us, whenever you need us, for almost whatever you need us for."

I roll my eyes. "I'll consider it – when you stop charging those outrageous sums for payment."

Anna huffs. "Cheapskate. Well, I'm off. See you soon."

After the gatekeeper has left, I turn to my wife.

"So, what now?" I ask her.

Robin shrugs. "I suppose we return to our daily lives."

"Together." I add smiling.

Robin smiles back. "Together."


Timeskip: Six months later

"CHROOOM! I AM GOING TO MURDER YOU!"

Yeah, turns out Cordelia got pregnant shortly after I returned from my first trip to the Outrealms. Fast forward roughly nine months, and here we are. Cordelia's in labor, with Lissa, Sumia, Robin and Libra making sure that everything goes smoothly. And with smoothly, I mean that Cordelia concentrates on getting her baby out instead of making good on her threat and make herself a widow.

As for me, I'm outside the room she's in, alongside Frederick and the terrified prince.

I pinch the bridge of my nose as Cordelia's pained cries continue. "For crying out loud, Chrom, you can't stay outside forever. You need to be there when your child arrives."

"Try saying that while your wife threatens to kill you." Chrom replies from behind Frederick.

"*Sigh* Look, Cordelia's in there in a vulnerable state, completely unarmed and busy giving birth. No matter how you look at it, she's in no position to kill anyone. Now, are you going to be a man and be there for your wife, or will you chicken out and spend the rest of your life regretting that you missed the first moments of your child's life in the world?"

"He is right, milord." Frederick adds. "As frightening as Cordelia may be to you, your place is by her side."

Chrom grits his teeth before he sighs. "No, you're both right. I can't run away from it forever." His face sets in a determined scowl. "All right. I'm heading in. Frederick, Jack, will you join me?"

I roll my eyes. "It's not like you're marching towards a battle, or anything of the sort. But, fine. I'll humor you."

The moment we enter the room, Cordelia finds enough focus to direct a glare of pure, unbridled rage at her husband.

"YOU! YOU'RE THE ONE WHO GOT ME INTO THIS LIVING HELL IN THE FIRST PLACE! TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND GET OVER HERE, RIGHT THIS INSTANT!"

Wow. Cordelia's got a strong pair of lungs.

Chrom gulps before marching towards what looks like his execution, but really only is the start of his life as a parent.

"Now, Cordelia, I need you to focus." Libra chastises the Falcon Knight gently. "You have done well so far. The baby will come out soon."

"Can't it get out any faster?!" Cordelia shouts as sweat runs down her face in rivers due to the pain. "I can't take much more of this!"

"You're much stronger than you think, Cordelia." Sumia encourages. "You'll bring a wonderful child into this world, and it will be worth every moment. You'll see."

"Hey, I can see the head!" Lissa reports excited. "You're almost there, Cordelia! Just a little more!"

Libra nods approvingly. "Good. Remember, Cordelia; Deep breaths. And…push!"

"UAAAA!"

"AAAUUUGH!"

The first scream was from Cordelia putting all her strength into pushing out the baby. The other scream was from Chrom, because he placed his hand in Cordelia's in an effort to provide moral support. Remember, dudes: Women have insane grip strength when they give birth.

"Waah!"

There it is. The cry that signifies that a new life is born.

"It's a girl! A healthy baby girl!" Lissa exclaims happily.

"Bring the water!" Libra tells a maid. "Quickly, now!"

The newborn infant is quickly washed and wrapped in a clean cloth. Even as she gasps for breath, Cordelia reaches out to the tiny bundle with shaking arms.

"Please… I wish to hold her…" she pants.

Libra places the baby in her arms with utmost care. Cordelia hugs her newborn child to her bosom, letting the little one seek our her breast and partake her first ever meal.

"Oh, she's beautiful!" Sumia gushes. "Say, have you thought out a name for her yet?"

Chrom cradles his abused hand in the other one. "Well, we haven't put that much thought into it yet. Though there was a name that just seemed to pop up one day…"

Cordelia smiles at her husband. "I remember that day. We decided to give our baby that name if it was a girl."

Lissa practically bounces on her feet. "Well, out with it then! What's her name?"

"Lucina." Cordelia replies while smiling down on her sleeping daughter affectionally. A tear of happiness slips out of her eye. "Her name will be Lucina."

Chrom hugs Cordelia close as he smiles at his newly named child. "That's the name we thought of. She's our light – the light that will lead the next generation."

Oh, if only you two knew how on the mark that name will be. Lucina was pretty much born for greatness.

Cordelia looks up at Sumia with sudden seriousness. "Sumia. Chrom and I have something important to ask you and Frederick regarding our daughter."

Sumia blinks. "What is it?"

"Will you two become her god parents?"

Sumia gasps while Frederick goes rigid – which, I have learned, is the equivalent of the Great Knight losing his s-it.

"W-what?! Me and Frederick?"

"Cordelia and I both know about the dangers of being royalty." Chrom explains. "I won't deny that Ylisse has its fair share of subterfuge and assassination plots. While our stations aren't as high as Emmeryn's, there are those who would try to get to her by murdering us. We can't let Lucina grow up without making sure that someone will take care of her, should anything happen to us."

Cordelia nods. "You two are among our most trusted friends. If there's anyone who will take good care of Lucina in case the worst happens, we are sure it will be you two."

Frederick frowns. "Milord, I must object. While Sumia and I are honored to be offered such a great responsibility, I refuse to watch you die so long as I draw breath. You will not fall into your grave on my watch. I swear it upon my honor as a knight."

Chrom sighs. "I appreciate your loyalty, Frederick. Truly, I do. But not even you can protect my life at all times. Neither can Sumia protect Cordelia's every waking moment. This is a necessary step to ensure that Lucina will always have a family. I know Emm would be more than happy to take care of Lucina in our stead, but she's busy ruling the halidom."

Lissa pouts. "And what am I? Chopped liver?"

"Oh, we considered you too, Lissa." Chrom replies smiling. "Though we think you're not the most…reliable choice."

The princess scowls. "Oh yeah? Well, I'll show you. Just wait 'til I become a mother myself! I will raise my son so well, he'll leave Lucina in the dust!"

Chrom raises an eyebrow. "And how are you so sure you'll have a son?"

Lissa crosses her arms with a smug smile. "Motherly instinct."

"You're not even married yet, and you're already talking about parenting?"

"I'm just practicing early, is all. I will have a great son, and he will grow up to become the stuff of legends. You'll see."

I think I'm starting to see the resemblance between Lissa and Owain. No wonder the guy turned out the way he did. Not that I mind. Owain's awesome!

Frederick clears his throat. "If you two are done with your discussion about milady's potential parenting, I wish to give mine and Sumia's answer."

"Well?" Cordelia asks expectant. "What's your decision?"

Sumia smiles at her best friend. "We'd love to become Lucina's god parents. Of course, we hope it never has to come to that at all, but you can rest assured that Lucina will always have a place with me and Frederick, no matter what happens."

Cordelia's smile matches Sumia's. "Thank you, Sumia. And don't worry. Neither of us have any intention of leaving Lucina. You're more than welcome to spend time with her whenever you wish, of course."

"Oh, I can't wait to show her how wonderful pegasi are!" Sumia gushes.

"Now hold on just a minute." Cordelia interrupts smirking. "That will be my responsibility. After all, Lucina will much prefer riding with her mother over anyone else."

"Hey, no fair! You just said I could spend time with her whenever I want!"

"Yes, but there are some things only a mother is permitted to teach her daughter."

Knowing an incoming catfight when he sees one, Chrom quickly scoops up the sleeping Lucina in his arms and hightails out of the room with Frederick right behind him. After some more bickering with Sumia, Cordelia notices the distinct lack of newborn cuteness in her arms.

"My baby!"

Lissa rolls her eyes at the spectacle. "Do all women become like that after they become mothers?"

I shrug. "Who knows? I guess we'll just have to wait until the day you become a mother yourself."

"Hey, Jack, you think I'll have a son in the future, right?"

My mind flashes to Owain and his many, many moments.

A smile grows on my lips. "Yeah. I'll just go with this "motherly instinct" of yours in this case, Lissa.

The princess pumps her fist in triumph. Heh. Was there ever any doubt that Owain is her kid?


As the months passed, Lucina steadily grew more aware of the world around her. The little baby girl became an instant favorite among the palace staff, charming maids and guards alike with her wide-eyed innocence and sunny smile.

The one who was pulled in the most was, of course, Frederick. There's taking their role as god parent seriously, and then there's the Great Knight's standards. Just a few hours after Lucina's birth, Frederick took it upon himself to become the baby princess's butler in all but title. The most extreme example came about two months later when Phila commented offhandedly that Frederick couldn't cover all of her needs on his own.

Frederick spent the entire day tending to Lucina's every need, be it feeding, cradling, changing her diapers, sing lullabies from three different Ylissean traditions or refurnish the entire baby room by hand – all while fulfilling the rest of his usual duties.

And that's just because he wanted to prove a point. Phila wisely refrained from ever bringing up the subject again.

I'm currently in said room. Little Lucina is currently sleeping in Cordelia's arms after having her diapers changed.

"So, what did you want to discuss, Cordelia?" I ask curiously.

"Oh, I just wanted to have a friend to talk to, I suppose." the Falcon Knight replies tiredly. "These last few weeks have been so hectic, despite me being on leave to care for Lucina.

I raise an eyebrow. "That bad? What's been on your mind?"

"A lot of things. While I am on leave now, there's still so much that's expected of me. I'm married to Chrom, which means I have a duty as a lady of the court to fulfill. Then there's my tutelage under Captain Phila. I'm excited about carrying on the legacy of my predecessors, but I realize that that entails commanding an entire unit in the Ylissean army. And I have to juggle all of that while still caring for Lucina. I appreciate everything that Sumia and Frederick do for our family, but they have their own duties to fulfill – Frederick in particular."

"Sounds like you have a lot on your plate." I surmise.

"*Sigh* That's one way to put it. Honestly, I think I just wanted someone to talk it all out with. With everyone so busy, I guess you seemed like the best choice."

"And why me specifically? I thought you were a lot closer with Sumia."

"That may be true, but I'm afraid Sumia would take it the wrong way if I told her this. She's such a kind friend, but she tends to overdo it. If I told her of my plight, she'd probably drop everything just for my sake, and I don't want that. You, on the other hand, always seem like you have an open schedule, despite commanding an entire company and also being the husband of Ylisse's chief tactician."

I allow a smug smile. "Ah, the wonders of copying myself… Chrom was right. My ability is blatant real-life cheating. Naga knows what Frederick would do if he possessed an ability like that."

Cordelia winces. "Please don't entertain that thought. Frederick's work ethic is already hectic as it is."

A sweatdrop forms on my head. "Fair point." The drop of liquid vanishes as I shake my head. "Anyway, I take it that you just want to unwind, then?"

Cordelia nods. "You could say that. I'm happy that I'm surrounded with so many people who genuinely care for me, but you are among the few who can listen to me without overreacting."

"Oh, come now. They're not that bad."

"Yes, they are."

"Fine, so we can cross Sumia and Frederick off the list. How about Chrom? He's your husband, for goodness's sake."

"And he also tends to act rashly. There was one time when we were on a walk through the forest outside the capital, just the two of us. The moment we heard rustling in some nearby bushes, Chrom immediately drew Falchion and slashed it apart. The poor rabbit hiding within looked so frightened."

New sweatdrop. "Okay… How about Phila?"

"As much as I respect Captain Phila, I don't think she has much advice to give me, other than anything related to my duties. Honestly, I think she takes her duties even more seriously than Frederick."

"Emmeryn?"

"Too busy ruling the halidom."

"Libra?"

"He spends most of his days preaching the words of the church, healing the ill on the streets or praying. Caring as he may be, I don't think he would provide that much comfort."

"Lissa?"

"She's too busy gushing over Lucina. While it could give me some respite, Lissa can get quite loud when playing with my daughter."

"Robin, then?"

Cordelia looks at me flatly. "Really, Jack? You know full well how busy your wife is on a daily basis."

I try to come up with more people, only to sigh in defeat as I reach the end of my rope. "You really need more friends with open schedules."

"That's what I have you for." Cordelia replies smiling.

Now it's my turn to stare at Cordelia flatly. "Gee. I fell so appreciated, sitting so low on the list."

"Well, at least you're on the list. And while you're not the first person I would turn to in troubled times, I still consider you a dear friend. You've helped me through so much when I needed help the most, Jack."

I shrug with a smile. "Well, that's what friends are for."

"So I have been told. And I'm happy to have you as a friend, Jack. You always seem to provide a shoulder to lean upon."

I shake my head, fond smile still in place. "Looks like that's my lot in life while I stay with you. Ah, well. Things could be worse than that."

A small red box sitting on a dresser near Lucina's crib catches my attention.

"Hm? What's this?" I ask as I approach it.

"Oh, that? It's a device called a "music box"." Cordelia replies. "If you twist the key a few times, the box will play music."

A music box, huh. I had no idea they had those in this era. I decide to test it out and twist the wind-up key a few turns.

*Play "Smiles and tears" (music box version) from Earthbound*

My eyes widen in shock as I recognize the familiar tunes.

"Cordelia… Where did you get this music box?" I ask in a shaky voice.

"It was a gift from my mother when I was a child. She told me that a mysterious merchant offered her that box many years before I was born. There were many times when I would fall asleep in her lap by the fireplace while listening to the tunes. As it turns out, it has a similar effect on Lucina, so I keep it here in case she has trouble sleeping."

I'm at a loss for words. Here I stand, listening to one of the most iconic pieces of video game music, recorded on an old music box…

"Jack? Is something the matter?" Cordelia asks concerned.

"I just… I was reminded of my home world, is all."

Hearing those tunes makes me focus on Lucina. A tune passed down in her family, and turned into a lullaby for soothing the baby that will one day play an instrumental role in saving the world from a terrible calamity. This can't be a coincidence.

I slowly walk up to Cordelia.

"You know… I can't help but think about how Lucina will be when she grows up."

Cordelia rolls her eyes. "Everyone says that. Honestly, I don't care that much about it. I only wish that she grows up happy. That's not too much to ask, is it?"

I wish to say "yes", but considering the life her future self has led, I'd lie if that was my answer.

"Happiness can be surprisingly difficult to find in life." I reply. "Hardship can strike us when we least expect it, but that's as much part of life as are the happy moments. While I wish Lucina a happy life as much as the next person, it's not something I can guarantee."

I gently caress the sleeping baby's face with a finger. "However, I'm sure she will grow up to become both kind and strong. I think you and Chrom had the right idea when naming her. Lucina will be a guiding light for her generation. And I want to see her grow into becoming that guiding light. It may be presumptuous, but I think this child was born for greatness."

Cordelia smiles. "That's kind of you to say, Jack. But how come you have such faith in Lucina?"

My mind flashes back to the brief interactions I've had with the future version of the blue-haired princess, as well as my relationship with her.

"Call it a hunch." I answer smiling.

*Song stops playing*


"I'm gonna die…"

I roll my eyes from my current seat – which is Elliot's back as he does pushups.

"Oh, please. If you have the strength to whine, you have the strength to push. So, push!"

Around the training ground, my clones help my teammates in their exercises, be it sparring partners, instructors in various weapon forms, mana channeling or, like in Elliot's case, extra weight for physical conditioning. I may or may not apply some Telekinesis downwards to make the exercise harder.

"Excuse me. Is there anyone here who can lead me to Exalt Emmeryn?"

I turn to find the owner of the voice; Raimi.

I quickly replace myself with a clone and walk up to the Feroxi Knight.

"Raimi. Long time no see." I greet her.

The guard captain takes a moment before she recognizes me. "You! You were among the soldiers who traveled with Prince Chrom and took part in the tournament of the khans two years ago! The one who defeated one of Khan Basilio's mightiest warriors."

"That's me." I confirm. "I never got to introduce myself. Name's Jack."

Raimi nods. "Very well, Jack. As pleasant as this conversation may be, I have urgent business with Her Grace. Can you take me to her?"

Hang on a sec. It's been about two years since the war against Plegia. Now Raimi drops by out of the blue with an urgent message for Emmeryn. That can only mean one thing.

"Follow me."

To be continued


Preview of the next chapter:

Raimi: Your Grace, I bring urgent news.

Emmeryn: Exactly how urgent are we talking here?

*Camera shows a massive warship with Valmese soldiers*

Valmese: All hail the empire of Valm!

Chrom: We're being invaded AGAIN?!

Virion: If we do not stop them here, this continent will befall the same fate as my beloved Rosanne.

Next time on Gamer Emblem Awakening:

Imperials be like: We R L33T! Team, unite up!

Cherche: I suppose I should join your cause and help drive the valmese out, then. Ready, Minerva?

Minerva: *Screech!*


Omake: How to get your girl wet

Robin holds up the bucket full of water.

"Watch this, Jack."

Jack peers into the bucket and watches as the water level lowers due to Robin compressing mana in the water. He smiles at Robin's accomplishment.

"Great work, Robin. I knew you could do it."

"Oh, but I'm not done with my demonstration yet."

Jack raises an eyebrow. In response, Robin quickly angles the bucket against him and releases the mana.

*Splash!*

Water drips down Jack's entire body.

Robin laughs until she holds her sides. "Oh gods! Look at your face! Priceless!"

Jack stands completely still, slightly slumped over.

"Um, Jack? You're not upset, are you?"

Jack slowly walks towards Robin. "Me, upset? Whatever made you think that?"

The Grandmaster backs away as her fiancée closes in. "Oh, you're not? Well, you're just awfully quiet. You're not…plotting revenge on me or anything of the sort. Right?"

"Of course not, Robin." A sinister grin grows on Jack's lips. "In fact, I'll just settle for giving you a BIG hug."

Robin's eyes widen. "You wouldn't dare."

Jack straightens up, showing his eyes gleaming maniacally. "Oh yes, I would."

"Jack? No. Stay away!"

Panne and Nowi look to the side as they hear some commotion. Robin runs through the courtyard. While her eyes seem quite frightened, it clashes with her smile.

Jack is just a few paces behind her, arms wide, soaking wet and laughing like a lunatic.

Panne shakes her head. "Humans have such strange mating rituals."

Nowi rolls her eyes. "Tell me about it. There was this one time when Donnel showed me a bunch of flowers. How rude! If he wanted to show me flowers, he could've just taken me to the meadow where they grew instead of ripping them from the earth."

Panne raises an eyebrow. "I never took you for the flower loving type."

"Because I'm not." Nowi replies giggling. "I just want him to take me there so we can mate in a beautiful place with no one to interrupt us."

Panne rubs her chin smirking. "That's an interesting idea. Perhaps I should do the same with Stahl during the next cycle of the moon."

Meanwhile at the stables, Stahl and Donnel feel simultaneous shivers go down their spines.

"Did you feel that?" Stahl asks worriedly.

Donnel nods. "Yup. Ya think our wives have somethin' to do with it?"

"That's what I thought."


New skills:

Sexual prowess, Lvl 20 [64 %], Active, Cost: 0 MP
Bumping uglies, rolling in the hay, horizontal tango, or simply making love. The most intimate pleasure known to man has many names and can be done in more ways than has ever been written in any single book. This skill represents your ability to please your beloved when the two of you decide to get up close and personal in bed, on the table, outside, or wherever the heck you think is a good spot (You horny animals…). The greater your level, the more satisfied your beloved will be. Remember, a healthy sex life is part of a healthy romance, but it's far from everything.


Jack's encyclopedic corner

Bat of Discipline, Blunt weapon, Base damage: 99, Unique
A weapon of Jack's own design. This massive club is adorned with spikes to make its heavy swings deal additional pain. Yet, as deadly as it looks, it is anything but. The metal has been enchanted with the ability to pierce defense, but never end a life. No matter the strength behind the swings, they can never kill anyone. They still cause a lot of pain, though.
Ignores up to 10 % of enemy's defense when attacking with this weapon. This weapon cannot kill an enemy.

Grandmaster, Class
A seasoned Tactician who has learned to merge the theory of battlefield tactics with the hectic rage of real combat. These strategists emphasize versatility and are well versed in swordplay and magic alike. Their greatest weapon, however, is their cunning mind. Underestimating a Grandmaster is a grave mistake, as anyone foolish enough to do so often ends up falling right in their hands.
Attack power and attack speed increases by 5 % when attacking with a sword. Attack power and attack speed is reduced by 5 % when attacking with any other weapon. Magic of all elements except light and darkness deal 5 % more damage. All stats increase by 5 %.

Bravo Bikini, Clothing, Unique
A swimsuit originally crafted by the ancient Sage, Yulyana. This provocative piece of clothing is so revealing, that any woman who ever tried it on immediately and irrevocably ended up hating the old man. Legend has it that a young warrior wore it for the purpose of seducing an enemy general. The plan worked – in a matter of speaking. Wearing this swimsuit is guaranteed to turn heads of men and women alike. But are you brave enough to walk in public with this on?

Commander of 100, Title
Your feats have gained the recognition of the ones in charge. As a result, you've been put in command of 100 subordinates. While even the most seasoned military commanders would be hard-pressed to command a unit of this size, you're expected to accomplish this very task. Godspeed, Captain, and may your leadership prove successful.
Increases all stats by 5 % when leading others in battle.


And done! At long last, Jack and Robin are married, and they start it off with one crazy wedding night, followed by one (less) crazy honeymoon. With this, the interlude chapters are finally done and the Valm arc will start for real in the next chapter. A lot of the stuff I've written has been in preparation for the war against Valm. The battles will be tough. The Reaper's scythe will harvest in the thousands. And, hopefully, the writing will live up to the hype.

All while little Lucina tries to figure out what's beyond Mommy's comfy embrace.

That's all for now. VipeR out.