Cynthia peered around her hiding place. Yep, still there, and the staring was still uncomfortable as always. Gosh, it was just so uncomfortable to watch those eyes stare at others so hungrily…

"What in Naga's name are you doing, Cynthia?" The pegasus knight nearly leaped from her spot in surprise. Lucina was staring at her sister with a confused expression. Severa and Noire were in tow, holding trays of food.

"Why are you here, Lucy?" Cynthia practically shouted.

Lucina squinted. "It… is breakfast time, Cynthia; we are in the mess hall, after all."

"Oh… that's a good point…" Cynthia looked around. Lots of people were staring at her, she noticed. "Oops."

"Who are you even spying on?" Severa asked. "You're not still fawning over Inigo, are you?"

"No way!" Cynthia replied, "Sev, c'mon! I was watching over …" She pointed behind her.

Mareeta sat alone, staring at random people and muttering to herself.

Severa squinted. "You sure you weren't spying on Inigo? He's right there." She pointed to one table over, where Inigo was getting a noogie from Catherine, who was laughing as she did it. "He's been trying to woo that blonde woman, and it's not been going well."

Cynthia frowned and turned away. "W-well, I'd say justice is served then! I'm just tailing Mareeta, as is my duty!"

"Duty?" Noire asked cautiously.

"Yes! My duty as the leader of the Justice Cabal! It is my responsibility to make sure all of my wards have integrated well into the Order of Heroes!"

Lucina tilted her head. "I thought your group was the League of Justice…"

Severa muttered. "I thought it was called the Judicial Team of Justice…"

Noire whispered something, but Cynthia didn't catch it. It was likely another misinterpretation of her awesome name! She pouted. "It's not my fault if you don't pay attention…" At that, she felt her sister ruffle her hair. Lucina gave her a supportive smile.

"Well, anyways, I think that's rather kind of you, Cynthia. Father would surely be proud." Cynthia frowned.

"He'd be more proud if Mareeta actually made friends!" She exclaimed, "But she keeps scaring everyone off!"

Severa scoffed. "Of course everyone's scared of her, she keeps threatening to kill everyone."

"Well, she can't help that!" Cynthia insisted, "She's got a magical cursed sword!"

Noire pondered this for a minute. "Well, Claude did mention that… It probably functions similarly to how my amulet did, don't you think?"

"At least you could break your hex," Lucina pointed out, "She can't seem to break whatever curse she's under." She looked at Severa. "Perhaps there's someone out there who has already broken a curse in this house…" Severa rolled her eyes at the statement.

"Yeah yeah, let me go talk to Morgan," She handed Cynthia her tray of food and stormed off, "Thanks for nothing." Lucina looked at her sister apologetically.

"You know Severa," she said, "She always helps, even if she pretends not to care." Cynthia responded by giving her a big hug.

"You guys are the best!" She squealed, "I can't believe we're all gonna work together, like the old days!"

Noire smiled weakly. "I- I suppose I could go talk to mother…" She walked away quickly, eventually ending up out of earshot. When Cynthia was sure both of them were gone, she turned to her sister.

"Is Noire gonna be okay?" She asked. Cynthia understood that she wasn't always the most aware, but it was hard not to worry about one of her oldest friends. She felt her hair get ruffled again. While it was nice to be coddled by her sister, it wasn't like Cynthia was still a kid. "Come on, I'm serious!" She brushed off Lucina's hand. "Noire is delicate, she shouldn't have to deal with…" Cynthia paused. It wasn't nice to talk about someone's mother like that, even if it was true.

Lucina smiled. "Well, I wonder. We could go follow them, and check for ourselves." Cynthia grinned and, holding her sister's hand, ran for the door.

"This is why you're my favorite sister!"

"I'm your - nevermind."

Severa hid behind a bookshelf. It wasn't often that Morgan was alone in the library, and there she was, talking the ear off of one of the new heroes. Morgan was always good at making new friends, no doubt a skill she learned from dad. Both Severa and mom struggled with it a little more. Severa listened in to what her sister was saying; she was a little interested in what topics her sister pursued when they weren't talking.

"-thea, these practical applications of Anima are really clever! You don't think this is what powers some of the appliances and such around the castle, do you?"

"I'm quite positive, Morgan. It would explain the flow of-"

Ugh, nerd stuff, I should've known. Severa sighed. It wasn't like she wasn't interested in that sorta stuff. It's just that… well…

Ok, she wasn't interested. She groaned. It really showed how similar Morgan was to dad, and how similar she was to mom. Sometimes it was really annoying! Severa walked out from behind the bookshelf. Better to just interrupt, Morgan could go all night with her technical talk. "Hey, sis." She announced to her younger sibling, who turned around way too quickly to be safe. "Whoa, careful! You're going to hurt yourself just like last time!"

"Severa!" Morgan's eyes were wide in shock, "You're in the library!"

"Wow, Morgan, condescending much?" Severa shot back, "I'm not an idiot, I'm just well rounded!" She looked at the other hero. "Anyways, who's your new friend?"

"Oh! Lysithea, this is my sister, Severa! Severa, Lysithea!" Lysithea had intense pinkish eyes and silvery white hair, and looked at Severa quizzically.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Severa." The mage said shortly. Severa was taken slightly aback. This person was as far away from Morgan as you could get! After just

"So… What's up, sis?" Morgan started to bounce.

Severa looked at both the mages. "So… You've dealt with cursed objects before, right?"

Morgan's eyes widened. "Yeah! Do you have a cursed object that I can help you with?!" She shouted.

"Yeah, it's a big cursed sword, purple and evil looking."

"Wow, I bet Auntie Aversa would be interested in that!" She turned to Lysithea, "Hey, Lysithea, do you want to check it out?"

Lysithea looked concerned. "Both of you seem very familiar with items that are… cursed," she said, "I suppose I could observe…" She felt herself get pulled along by Morgan.

"Great, let's go!"

They passed through corridor to corridor, going deeper into the castle, until Lysithea was in a dark hallway that felt too familiar.

Too familiar in an awful way. She shivered; the hallway was a little cold, as well.

"Oh, Noire is already here!" Morgan shouted, "That makes this easier!"

"Morgan, please stop shouting, I have a hangover." Aversa moaned.

"Oh, stop complaining about your hangover," Tharja snapped, before looking at Lysithea eagerly, "We have a new guest!" Several shivers went down Lysithea's spine, before she heard the telltale call of a raven. The bird swooped by her, causing her to shriek. Aversa covered her ears in agony. "Henry, I thought I told you to control your gods-forsaken birds!" Tharja growled out, before turning to Lysithea. "I'm so sorry, my dear, Henry is rather careless about his creatures. I'm Tharja, and you are?"

"Hey, don't insult my corvids!" Another voice piped from the room. Henry peered out. "Oh, a new pal! Come on out, Hubert, say hel-" His voice cut out, as Tharja made a motion at him, glaring.

"Don't interrupt me, please." She said. "I'm sorry, child, Henry just has no manners."

"Um, I'm Lysithea… It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Tharja."

"Nya ha ha! 'Lady Tharja' implies some sort of politeness!" Henry noted.

Tharja sneered. "I quite like it. Miss Lysithea here actually has etiquette and manners about her."

Severa decided to pop in, "Aunt Tharja, has Noire already filled you in?"

Tharja smiled. "Yes, my daughter has told me about your cursed object. It seems like a perfect thing to study."

"Absolutely!" Henry piped in, "Absolutely in our wheelhouse!" He called back into the room. "Hubert, come say hi to our new visitors!"

Hubert peered around the door. "Von Ordelia," he stated, "I would have assumed your phasmophobia would have stopped you from visiting this section of the castle."

Lysithea huffed. "I'll have you know, Von Vestra, that I am not afraid of ghosts or anything haunted! Not… that this area is haunted anyways, correct?"

"Just us four misfits." Aversa commented. Lysithea noted her tattoos and rather… revealing choice of clothing. It screamed villainy. "Anyways, why do we have to deal with this now? My head is killing me."

Severa rolled her eyes and started rubbing her aunt's back. "I'll get you an icebag and some water if you help." She stated.

Aversa sighed in contentment. "Ah, this is why you're my favorite niece of the day, Severa." Morgan pouted.

"Darn it," she whispered, "That's two days in a row."

Tharja's face dropped in annoyance. "Noire," she stated, "How many others have you told about this?"

"Um… Cynthia was the one who told us everything, so just her and Lucina?" Noire looked a little nervous, "D-did I do something wrong?" Tharja shook her head.

"No, my sweet," she replied, "But…"

An enormous thud echoed down the hallway, causing Lysithea to jump again. Cynthia, Lucina, and 3 others were in a pile a few feet away from the mage.

"JUSTICE HAS COME TO PROTECT YOU, NOoo- Oh, it looks like everything's okay." Cynthia said, her voice decreasing in volume with each word. She looked a little disappointed. "Hey, Aunt Tharja, Uncle Henry."

"Hiya, kiddo!" Henry replied enthusiastically. Tharja and Aversa didn't share the same sentiment, muttering something under their breaths.

"Cynthia, you really need to warn us before you stop like that." Lucina admonished, "You could've hurt someone!"

"Oh yeah! Sorry everyone!" She called back. The other 3 picked themselves up.

"It's alrigh'," Nephenee assured, "No harm, no foul."

"Indeed!" Exclaimed the bright voice of L'Arachel, "Anyone on the side of justice cannot do harm to me!" Tharja groaned.

"Oh joy, now there are two of them." She muttered. She turned to the last member on the ground. "I remember you," she noted, "Henry undid your curse awhile ago, correct?"

The redhead popped up from the floor and bowed. "Indeed; I am Celica, Princess of Zofia."

Henry laughed. "Oh yeah! That was a nifty little hex! Took a lot out of me." He smiled warmly. "How are ya feeling?"

"Much better, thanks to your hard work!" Celica replied. "When I saw L'Arachel speak of a cursed blade, I knew this was likely the best chance to give my thanks and repay you for your kindness."

Henry waved his hand at Celica. "Aw, no need to be so caw-mplimentary!"

Tharja looked at Nephenee. "What? Your shadow isn't going to introduce herself?" As if commanded, another person landed next to the halberdier. Kagero frowned at the dark mage.

"Take care with your words, sorceress," she warned, "Barbs at Nephenee will not be met with kindness."

Morgan ran up to Kagero. "Hey boss! I've been practicing, just like you told me too!" The ninja gave a small smile.

"Good, as I expect from someone with your work ethic." She replied, before turning to Hubert and Lysithea. "Hubert Von Vestra, Lysithea Von Ordelia; I bid both of you welcome to Askr. I am Kagero, chief ninja of the castle."

Hubert smirked. "I assume you excel at information gathering, as well as other less savory tactics." Kagero nodded.

"Things you are well-accustomed to, I gather."

"Quite so." He shifted a look at Nephenee and back to Kagero.

"Umm, we are very honored to be here, Lady Kagero." Lysithea stated, "This seems like a large force for just one cursed object."

Henry spoke up. "You can never be too careful! There are curses that can transfer from person to person, or ones that can dissipate if you have a large group affected by it! Numbers are your friend!" Hubert pulled out a notepad and frantically scribbled notes.

"Hubert! Why are you taking notes?" Lysithea whispered.

"Furthering my education, Von Ordelia," he replied coolly, "Something you are very familiar with."

Cynthia looked around. "Alright, now that we have our team assembled, let's commence with operation 'Bane of the Cursed Blade!'"

Severa groaned. "Figures you had a name already prepared."

"So, has Kiran been resting?"

Ishtar turned to Clarisse, who was already offering the thunder mage a drink. They had decided to take a turn around a part of the castle. Well, Clarisse was rather persuasive, but it wasn't like Ishtar didn't want to talk to her.

"Yes, Maribelle and Lucius have been very effective at limiting his work time when I am unable to. Did you fill your flask for this purpose, or is this a happy accident?"

"Let's call it a coincidence and leave it at that, eh?" Clarisse handed the flask over, "Sorry if this isn't fancy enough for you, Princess, but I figured you wouldn't be too picky."

Ishtar's face flattened. "Unfortunately, you and Kiran have brought me a bit lower than my normal expectations." She took a big swig of fine Ylissean brandy. "Still, thank you for filling it with something better than cheap ale."

"We both have standards, after all." Clarisse paused, "So, how's it going between you two? You both seemed tense last night."

"It was that obvious?" Ishtar grimaced, "I hope that is not a talking point around the castle."

"Still feeling guilty, huh?"

Ishtar glared. "Would you not feel guilty?"

Clarisse shrugged. "I mean, a little," she replied, "But he said everything's fine, so everything's fine."

"It certainly is not!" Ishtar shouted. The sniper circled her, staring her down.

"This is an annoying habit or yours," Ishtar stepped back, about to speak, "No, shut up and listen. I do some research on every hero that comes through this door. It's part of my damn job. And when you came in, guess what I learned and never shared?"

Ishtar sighed in realization. "My engagement to Lord Julius."

"Correct." Clarisse frowned again. "Keep doing research and what do I find? Julius is possessed and becomes, well, a demon essentially."

Ishtar flared up. "What are you insinuating?"

"Does Kiran know about all of it?"

"He… he knows enough."

Clarisse wiped her face in frustration. "You people are so infuriating!" She kicked at the ground. "Of course there's godsdamned tension! Kiran's dense but he isn't stupid, he can tell that something's bothering you still! You still feel guilty about all that past sh-." She paused, her head snapping into attention.

Mareeta stood in front of them, breathing heavily.

"Blood… kill…"

"That's an invitation, I assume," Clarisse called out, still fuming, "Or you're a fool and just wanna die. Either or is fine by me."

"She cannot harm us, she's under contract." Ishtar said, attempting to relieve tension. She looked at the sword. "Claude was right, that is certainly dark handiwork."

"The glowing aura didn't tip you off?" came the sharp retort. "I can see why you and Kiran get along." Ishtar glared yet again. "Why don't we just back up. You aren't gonna get to me before I get you."

"She won't get to anyone!" A voice from above called out. "JUSTICCCE!" Cynthia leaped over the two, swinging her lance down on Mareeta. She blocked it, hissing at the pigtailed pegasus knight. As she pushed her off, Lucina slashed at her, then Severa and Celica, then Nephenee.

"Well, look at them go!" Ishtar felt someone snag Clarisse's flask from her hand. Aversa took a large swig of her own. "Ah, Ylissean Brandy, quite the brave choice for day drinking." Tharja and Henry both looked at Aversa, clearly a little disappointed. "You both did well as a temporary distraction, you have our thanks."

"You're welcome, I guess." Clarisse muttered. "Keep me in the loop next time, or there won't be one."

Ropes attached to arrows and daggers came from above as well, pinning Mareeta to the ground. Kagero landed in front of the possessed swordswoman. "The threat is neutralized, you can commence with the cleansing ritual."

"Wrong vernacular, but sure!" Henry replied, "L'Arachel, what can you do with this?"

L'Arachel laughed confidently. "A curse like this? Nothing a little confidence and magic cannot handle!" She pointed her staff at the sword, which began to shimmer.

Tharja studied the magic for a moment. "Yes, the seal is certainly weaker… The three of us shouldn't have any trouble now."

"Alright my little Murder," Henry called out to Hubert, Lysithea, and Morgan, "Make sure you take notes! This is the safest way to dispel a curse!"

"As you wish, Mr Henry." Hubert replied, as Lysithea and Morgan were already scribbling and mumbling.

Henry, Tharja, and Aversa began chanting, and slowly, the sword began to gleam with its normal steel color. The red drained out of Mareeta's eyes, and she began to look around wildly.

Henry smiled. "Good job everyone! We prevented caw-tastrophy!" Celica snorted and giggled at the horrible pun. She paused and looked at everyone else.

"What, it was funny!"

Clarisse looked down at Mareeta. "Hey bud," she asked Henry, "You sure you dispelled that curse? She still looks… uhhh…"

Mareeta was staring down Ishtar with a look that could easily kill. "I know you," she growled, "Friegian monster!" She began to struggle.

Ishtar didn't look upset, more resigned than anything else.

"Where is my mother?!" Mareeta screamed.

"I… I don't know." Ishtar replied, "She isn't here, as this is not Thracia or any other place you know."

Mareeta spat and struggled against the combined weight of the five vanguard members holding me down. "Release me this instant!"

"No can do, kid," Clarisse replied, "Whatever Lady Ishtar did in the past, she's been as good as can be here in Askr." She shoved an arrow into the ground next to Mareeta's head. "Not like you could do much harm if you got to her. Part of the contract."

"Clarisse!" L'Arachel called out, "No need to threaten the girl!" She shooed away the others and helped up Mareeta. "My name is L'Arachel, we all came together to break your curse!"

Mareeta squinted. "Curse? I… don't remember coming here. Just a red haze…"

"Classic enraging curse," Tharja noted, "It turned you into a mindless lunatic, with no memory of what you did during that time." She giggled. "Quite insidious…"

"This is not funny!" came the furious response, "Where is Leif? Nanna? Where is my mother?!" She finally squirmed out of the dogpile, holding her sword at Ishtar. "I will get an answer."

"Not from her, you will not," Kagero placed a hand on Mareeta's shoulder, "Come with me, and we will get you as many answers as we can." Her grip tightened slightly. "While you are here, you are beholden to Askrian rules, so coming voluntarily would be the better option for everyone here." Mareeta looked at everyone. Even though she could perhaps fight off a couple of them, it would nearly be impossible to get to that Friegian devil. She sighed, her voice breaking slightly.

"Fine." She held out her arm, expecting to be shackled.

Kagero waved it away. "No need, just follow Nephenee and myself." The three walked back into the castle, leaving the others standing in the garden.

Cynthia sucked in air between her teeth. "Ugh, of course that didn't go well," She groaned, "Come on, Cynthia." Her shoulders slumped. She felt a tap on her shoulder. Lucina gave her a friendly squeeze.

"You did a fine job, Cynthia," Lucina said, "I'm sure she'll be just fine, with time."

"Thanks, Lucy." She said sadly, "I was really hoping that everything would be okay immediately, though…"

"This is my fault," Ishtar said, "I should have been aware of Mareeta's distaste of me…"

"Well, no use crying over it," Clarisse said with some finality, "Why don't you go talk to Kiran? I'll write up an actual report." She turns to the others. "I trust that all of you will give me your full cooperation?"

Severa rolled her eyes. "Yeah yeah, let's just get this over with."

"On that, we can agree."

The report took little to no time, luckily for Severa. Now she could focus on the things that were occupying her mind.

Most notably, the opera that she had only finished writing. She still hadn't finished orchestrating it, and now Cherche and the Sewing Club were creating costumes… She rubbed her temples. They still weren't finished casting either! The King and the Princess were still up in the air, with some auditions set for tomorrow in Music Club… Severa nearly tugged on a twintail in frustration. "Seriously?" She muttered, "How could we have failed to cast one of the main characters?!"

"Ummm, Sev?" Lucina's voice echoed in the hallway behind her, causing her to freeze. "Is everything alright?"

"Hey, Lucy!" She jumped to attention, "Everything's just great! Peachy, even!"

"You and I both know that's a lie," Lucina placed her hands on her hips and gave her the classic Lucy pout. Severa grimaced. That pout was really only reserved for her in particular, and it was always when Lucina was trying to dig into Severa's psyche. "Spit it out, Sev."

Severa frowned bitterly. "Ugh, gawds! Fine." She started walking, slowing down just enough so that Lucina could catch up and keep pace. "I'm so stressed out about this opera, Lucy! I didn't realize how much of a production it would all be!"

"The term is "production", Sev, I'm rather shocked you of all people were taking unawares." Severa glared at Lucina, who was making an uncharacteristically smug face.

"Did you just make a joke?" Severa asked, rather shocked.

Lucina smiled. "It's been known to happen." Severa grumbled, but continued on.

"Soon, we'll have to rehearse, and only gawds know how bad that could go! And Aunt Cherche has already started sewing the costumes and aaagh!" Severa grabbed onto a twintail. "We just got back and everything is moving so quickly!"

Lucina gently touched Severa's hand, which made the latter jump away for a second, babbling like a fool. "Sev, I do agree that perhaps everyone is rather… eager, but this isn't war! We aren't spending every day wondering if it's our last! Isn't that worth a little stress?"

Severa looked uncomfortable. "Lucy, I'll be honest… Despite all the stuff I try to do, I'm not really used to not fighting." She hesitated. "I just pretended because I…"

"You were always trying to keep us going, I'm well aware," Lucina replied, "Honestly, Severa, do you think I'm dense?"

She twisted a little bit, remembering mom's words. That whole family is a bit dense when it comes to romance. "Not at all!" Severa replied, a little too loudly. "I just wasn't sure if my act was too good!"

Lucina leaned in. "Let me tell you a secret, Sev," she whispered right into Severa's ear, "I know what you think of me."

Severa grew pale. Had she been too forward? Did Lucina not feel the same way? If that was the case, Severa wouldn't mind being struck down by Naga right then and there. "W-what do you mean?"

"You think my fashion sense is terrible, don't you?!" Lucina turned away, pouting even more. Severa nearly collapsed right then and there.

"Seriously?" She managed to choke out, "W…Why did you feel the need to whisper that?"

Lucina smiled and winked. "Remember when we all had that wine a few weeks ago? That was payback." She ran up a flight of stairs, leaving Severa to catch up. She didn't remember anything after the 3rd drink; what had she said?

What had she done?

Before she could ask, a door opened, and Cherche stepped out, looking rather pleased with herself.

"Ah, Lucina and Severa! Your timing couldn't be any better." She gave them both a conspiratorial smile. Severa gulped on reflex. That face was never good.

Ike tapped his foot against a wooden railing, garnering the attention of the other swordsman at the training grounds. "Alright, everyone," he began, "We have two new people joining us for training, so I expect everyone to give it their all."

"We give it our all every training session, Ike." Joshua replied, "Don't you worry!"

"I seem to recall a certain someone falling asleep last time after spending all night losing all their spending money to the Commander." Came the sharp retort from Ayra. Both Joshua and Ayra glared at each other. Ike sighed in resignation.

"Exactly the kind of thing I didn't want happening." He said, clapping his hands, "Marisa will be here shortly, so let's pair up. Joshua, you go with Chrom. Laslow, train with Athena. Fir, you're with Ayra. Soleil and Mia, and… Celica and Laevatein. Is that fine with everyone?" Everyone nodded, except Laslow, who raised his hand tentatively.

"What about Lucina and Selena? They're supposed to be here as well." He noted. And what about Lady Laegjarn? I could spar with her, if need be!"

Laegjarn stood sentry over the rest of the swordsmen, eyes sharp like an eagle's. Ike shook his head. "Cherche is borrowing Lucina and Selena, Laegjarn and Marisa are taking on the new charges, and I'm advising this week. If you have a problem with Athena, speak up and we can switch you."

Athena gave Laslow a sinister grin. "Yes, little man! You are too scared to rumble?"

"No, not one bit! Not one bit…" he gave Laegjarn a longing side-eye. Soleil scrunched up her face in disgust.

"I don't look like that, right?" She asked Mia.

"Ehhh…" Mia closed an eye and shrugged, "A little bit."

"I can advise if you would prefer, Sir Ike." Laegjarn said, "I feel bad, taking up the practice you probably want."

"I appreciate the thought," Ike replied, "But we rotate here, so I won't miss too much training. And looking from outside is also beneficial, as Titania frequently reminds me."

"Sounds like a fine teacher."

"You two should meet, or perhaps you already have." Several footsteps approached the training grounds, and Marisa gave Ike a good punch on the shoulder.

"Already paired everyone up? Quick work." She said bluntly. "Alright. Catherine, you go with Laegjarn; Mareeta, you're with me."

"Not mincing words, huh?" Catherine asked, "I like it!" She approached Laegjarn confidently. "Hey! The name's Catherine!"

"Laegjarn, 1st Princess of Muspell. It's a pleasure."

Catherine covered her mouth, "Ah! My apologies, Lady Laegjarn! I'll make sure to address you properly next time!"

Laegjarn gave Catherine a blank look. "It's alright, I have never been one for titles."

Ike continued with his instruction. "These are 5 minutes rounds, focus on your footwork today!" He rang a nearby bell, and the training commenced.

Mareeta's meeting with the royalty of Askr had gone as well as expected. As much as they sympathized with her, there wasn't much they could do. She sneered. Nothing they could do, they could've just never summoned me here in the first place! She swung at Marisa, who didn't even try to block the wooden blade, just sidestepped out of the way.

"Focus, Mareeta," she heard the pink haired mercenary say, "I can't gauge your abilities if you attack like this."

Mareeta flung herself at Marisa, shouting in repressed anger. Marisa deftly parried the attack, and wrapped her arm around the younger swordswoman. "Huh?" Was all Mareeta could say before they were both thrown to the ground. The mercenary stared Mareeta down, her eyes betraying no emotion.

"If you need to let this out on the training grounds, then so be it," Marisa replied, "But I'm not going to play therapist. Focus." She helped Mareeta up, and set her feet again. "Try again."

Mareeta slashed at Marisa, who parried this time. She started to focus on her footwork. "I wake up in an unfamiliar world, with unfamiliar people. The only," Slash, "person I've met here who I know is one of my greatest enemies, and," Slash, "I'm just expected to accept it? Wouldn't you be angry?"

Marisa stepped back and switched hands, making Mareeta take a huge evasive maneuver. "I was," came the simple reply, as Marisa went on the offensive, "But I've made friends, and now I'm not upset."

"It's that simple?"

"I'm a simple person." Marisa replied again, "I can't speak for you."

Their sparring began to speed up, picking up intensity as well. Mareeta placed all of her frustration into each strike, every hit felt a little bit of the frustration shear off. She was impressed, though; Marisa had not shown any signs of feeling overwhelmed. In fact, much to Mareeta's chagrin, she was still controlling the pace at which they were sparring. And she was doing it through her subtle stance changes and switching her sword hand.

"Alright, that's 5 minutes up!" Ike called out, ringing the bell again. "Line up, and let's talk shop."

Everyone lined up in front of Ike, awaiting judgement.

"Let's start with you, Fir, since you seem the most eager." Fir nodded vigorously. "Your footwork has improved a lot, and it was already pretty good! I know in gladiatorial combat, a lot of the goal is showmanship, but you still sometimes waste your movements, keep working on making everything as efficient as possible. You have the speed to make up for that, but I think you can be even faster."

He turned to Laslow. "Laslow, I noticed your footwork is flawless, but you are still getting hung up on fighting women. Athena is not going to break in half!"

Athena patted Laslow on the back. "Yes, like I tell you! I am not weak person!"

"As for you, Athena," Ike continued, "You were impressive, as always. Remember that not every blow has to be a killing blow, even if you can get away with it."

"Yes sir! I will be trying to not hit as hard!"

Ike sighed. "Just not every attack, Athena. I still think your strength is your greatest asset." He turned to Laegjarn. "Laegjarn, your sword isn't as long as this training sword, is it?"

Laegjarn nodded. "Correct, it's a little shorter. I assume I was closing the distance between myself and Catherine quite often?"

"Yes, and if that's the case, that makes sense," Ike concluded, "You and Catherine were both fighting for distance that whole time. I would suggest getting more comfortable with weapons of various sizes. You may never utilize those skills, but it wouldn't hurt."

"I shall take that into consideration." She replied.

"As for you, Catherine; Your footwork is fantastic, and your swordsmanship is very strong."

Catherine beamed. "Thanks, teacher! I appreciate it! Anything I can improve?"

Ike tapped his chin. "I feel like you aren't used to a lighter sword, so like Laegjarn, working with variation would benefit you as well." He then turned to Joshua and Chrom. "Joshua, Chrom, both of you have the same problem. You really need to work on your speed and stamina. Both of you can finish a fight quickly, but make sure you don't rely on it; you may not end up so lucky."

"Ayra, I don't have much to say; your speed and techniques are nearly impeccable. All of us could learn from you."

Ayra bowed. "Your compliment is appreciated, Sir Ike."

Ike nodded, and turned to Laevatein and Celica. "Laevatein, I also don't have much to say to you. The sword looks like a natural extension of your body."

"As it should be." Laevatein replied coldly.

"Celica, when you fight, you're still acting like you have magic at your disposal. When you have access to a tome, that is useful, but always be aware of what you do and don't have. It will save your life." He finally turned to Soleil and Mia. "Mia, I don't have much to say that you haven't heard before. As for you, Soleil; I know you find Mia attractive, but you need to focus when you're fighting. Nobody will care if you're too busy to properly fight."

Soleil blushed fiercely. "Hey, you don't need to go that far!"

Mia patted the girl's back. "If it helps, I won't make fun of you about it… much." She gave Soleil a wink. Soleil crossed her arms angrily. "Aw, c'mon! I'll go to tea with you, will that make you feel better?"

"... Maybe." She grumbled. Ike rubbed the back of his head.

"Uhh… Sorry about that." He clapped his hands again, "Moving on, let's rotate partners."

Catherine looked at her new partner. She - Catherine thought the name was Fir - bowed to her immediately.

"It's a great honor to spar with you! I'm Fir!" She sounded super peppy, which Catherine could appreciate. And thank the goddess she got the name right!

"Catherine! It's a pleasure!" Catherine gave her a big smile. "You seem pretty happy."

"Getting to spar someone I've never met before is exciting!" Fir exclaimed, "I hope you have much to teach me!"

Catherine started to loosen up. "Likewise, Fir! You're a kid after my own heart!"

The bell rang, and they set off.

"Aunt Cherche, why do I have to sit here?"

Severa was sitting, by herself, in the sewing room. She could hear Cherche and Lucina working in the other room, talking to each other.

"Severa, you're our director and writer! You are essential in decision making here!" She could hear both of them approaching from behind a screen. "Now, tell me what you think!"

Lucina came out, in a very stately soldier's outfit. The silver and blue looked timeless, and one could have mistaken the shiny silvery silk for metal in the right light. Severa clapped. "This looks marvelous!"

Cherche smiled. "Now sit tight, I have more outfits to show you!"

Lucina turned. "But, Aunt Cherche, this is my role, shouldn't we find the other cast members for the other costumes instead?"

"Oh, no no no! What better time than the present?" Lucina slowly walked back, and after 10 minutes or so, came back out in a new outfit. This must have been the evil witch, it had reds and purples and blacks, and Cherche had applied a dark reddish eyeliner to Lucina's face.

"Ah, v-very sinister, Cherche." Severa struggled with her words. Lucina has no business looking that good in an outfit that evil looking!

Cherche tilted her head, her pink eyes seemed to glow with a mischievous light. "Not alluring whatsoever? You did mention that the evil witch has to have an attractive quality to her."

"No! No, it's plenty a-a…" Severa paused at the last word, choking on it. "Alluring!" She finally spat out. Lucina immediately blushed a little, and Cherche smiled again. Severa finally caught on, and grimaced.

"I only have one more to reveal to you, but I think it's a real showstopper!"

Lucina went behind the screen again, and Severa was left to her own thoughts. Mother, she thought. She somehow prearranged this whole thing with Cherche, the resident matchmaker! As much as she appreciated the opportunity to gush over Lucy, it was more than a little embarrassing.

"I d-don't think this fits properly…" Severa heard Lucina say.

"Hmmm, I'll just clip it together, like so." Cherche said, with that dry annoyed voice that the Shepherds had grown to fear. "Well, it wasn't designed with your dimensions in mind, so I shouldn't be too upset…"

Lucina came out, dressed in what Severa could only describe as-

"You look beautiful…" Severa's mouth was agape. Lucy was wearing a blue dress that seemed to flow like the ocean. It sparkled and accentuated her hair perfectly. "I mean- It looks beautiful, Aunt Cherche!"

Lucina looked a little relieved, and Cherche just smiled that trademark smile. "I'm so glad you approve! We haven't quite finished it, as we aren't sure who will be in it."

"Ah, this is the princess's dress." Severa commented. Cherche nodded. "It really does suit a princess." She couldn't stop staring at Lucina… she had a scar on her shoulder, when had she gotten that?

"Come, Lucina, let's get you back into your clothes," Cherche commented, "I think Severa and I need to have a talk afterwards."

Lucina quickly changed back, but before she ran off, she turned to Severa and Cherche.

"Um, uh… Thank you for your hard work, Aunt Cherche! And I will do my best to be worthy of your part, Sev!" She was blushing furiously.

"Thank you for the kind words, Lucina." Cherche replied, tapping Severa's shoulder when she didn't reply for a moment.

"Oh! Uh, yeah!" Severa stammered, "I know you can do it!" Lucina closed the door behind them, and Severa immediately jumped to her feet.

"Goodness, you're just like your father." Cherche remarked, amusement layering her voice. "Lost for words at the sight of a pretty girl."

"Please, Aunt Cherche, you sound like Aversa when you talk like that." She hugged the wyvern knight. "But, thank you."

"No need to thank me, Severa. It was all your mother's idea."

"I already kinda figured."

"She has no patience; her and Sumia both," Cherche said, "But I must admit, that was more entertaining than I thought it would be."

"I assume you're going to tell them everything?"

"Yes, I'm sure Cordelia will find it amusing how much like your father you are."

Severa paused. She was rarely ever compared to dad. "Usually people compare me to mother." Severa admitted.

Cherche smiled. "You and Morgan share traits with both of your parents, yes. You work harder than Morgan, much like Cordelia, but you're patient and observant, like your father. Morgan might be more tactical and you more blunt,"

"Gee, thanks."

"But, your sister would never have the vision to create what you're creating now. She's very creative, yes, but in a very different way."

"I bet Morgan could write an opera, probably better than mine!"

"Spoken like a good older sister," Cherche noted, "But Cordelia could've never gotten as far as she did without Robin's help."

Severa looked at Cherche, confused. "What?"

Cherche looked equally confused. "Did he not tell you? He orchestrated everything. Cordelia wrote the melodies and lyrics, but Robin put together all the details. Or at least, the one from my timeline did."

Severa mumbled to herself. "Dad never told me that."

"It's not that important, I suppose he didn't feel his contributions were notable enough to take credit for. But you did all that by yourself! You gained both of their unique strengths, in this particular case!"

Severa shook her head. As much as she liked the compliments, they were getting off-topic. "So, you did this so I could stare at Lucina?"

Cherche sighed, "Well, that's certainly a cynical interpretation. You needed to come forward with your feelings, and Lucina needs to actually take them in. Her father is the Lord of Naivety."

"So I've been reminded."

"You did call her 'alluring' and 'beautiful'. If she reciprocates your feelings, you'll surely know sooner than later now." Severa put her hands over her head.

"Oh gawds, I really did that." She was both nervous and elated. "I really did that!" Severa looked around. "I need to find her!"

"I doubt you'll find her tonight." Cherche replied. "When Gaius confessed to me, Minerva and I flew to Southtown and he didn't receive an answer for a week! He was practically comatose when I came back to say yes."

Severa grimaced, "I don't know if I can handle a week." She admitted.

"You've handled years of this, you can handle a little more time."

Cherche was right, of course, but Severa still had that ugly feeling deep in her stomach.

"Well, I thought you looked beautiful."

Lucina wasn't paying attention. Grima, her… alternate mother? Enemy? Whatever - kept pestering her about the impromptu fashion show, which was embarrassing enough. But then she kept flashing back to Severa's face when she saw her in that dress, and…

"Lucina, do not ignore me!" Grima commanded, "I am complimenting my daughter!"

"You aren't my mother, but fine; thank you!"

Grima smiled. It was both parental and somehow frighteningly sinister. "And I don't think I was the only one who thought so."

"You looked at Severa with your powers?!" Lucina asked, shocked. She was, admittedly, invested in what Grima thought about it, but… "Have you no respect for privacy?!"

"No, I don't," Grima answered simply, " and I am trying to help you, so you could be a little grateful."

"I don't need to be anything."

Grima paused, and in her next words, her voice sounded much more human, "Right, I shouldn't be acting all haughty; you're Sumia's daughter, not mine."

Lucina rolled her eyes. This was the world ender? She was just as needy as everyone else! "I'll admit I'm a little interested in what Severa was thinking…"

"Ah!" Grima's face perked up, and she floated next to Lucina excitedly. "I can tell you that she was very focused on the part of the dress that didn't fit you properly…"

"Ugh!" Lucina instinctively covered herself. While flattered, she didn't need to hear that secondhand.

"Are you going to tell her how you feel?" Grima asked, "Not like I care much, mind you; but you humans certainly like to waste time."

"What if Sev doesn't feel the same way?" Lucina asked, "When we were kids, Severa kept going on and on about her 'prince'. She was going to find her prince and fall in love and then we live next door to each other and our children would play…" she choked up at that, because truth be told, she had never envisioned the future she wanted to be like that.

Grima pat her head. "Perhaps, but I get the feeling that someone who looks at you like she did doesn't have friendship in mind."

"Grima! That isn't helping!" Lucina shouted, her face bright red.

Grima cackled. "Come, Lucina, I'm sure Sumia would love to hear all about this. I think she'll come to the same conclusion." She floated out the window. "Do visit from time to time. You might not be my child, but you are my daughter."

Grima left Lucina alone with her thoughts then, and the cavalcade of conflicting emotions they brought.

In the past day or so, Seteth had taken detailed notes on the whole of Askr Castle. From the times where the mess hall was least crowded, to the location of all the unsanctioned clubs, such as this dessert eating and gossip club that Flayn had snuck into. They seemed nice enough, though the aqua haired girl with the spear did insist that he wasn't allowed in.

"Good evening, Seteth." A monotone voice greeted the man, who jumped slightly. Shamir waved. "Apologies for startling you."

"I-it's quite alright, Shamir," Seteth replied, "Are you finished with guard duty, or just starting your shift?"

"Finished up," she stretched a little, "I'm going to the mess hall, get some dinner and probably get roped into whatever Catherine's doing. What about you? Looking for Flayn?"

Seteth raised an eyebrow. "I am not always looking for Flayn, Shamir. I know where she is anyhow," he looked at his map of the castle, "I have already eaten, so I suppose I will go to the fourth floor balcony and look at the stars."

It was now Shamir's turn to raise an eyebrow. "That seems… rather romantic for you."

Seteth looked wistful. "I suppose it is," he chuckled, "I feel more relaxed than I have in years, Shamir." He turned to the archer. "How have you been holding up?"

"Surprisingly well," she admitted, "They pay just as well here, and the people are nice enough. No nobles that are in need of idle flattery."

"I'm glad the two of you are adjusting well." Seteth remarked, causing Shamir to chuckle.

"Catherine is simple, give her a sword and people to hit and she'll be happy."

"I'm well aware."

"Good night, Seteth."

"A good night to you as well, Shamir." And the archer was on her way. Seteth climbed up a set of stairs, and another set, until he reached his destination.

To his surprise, someone was already there. Her long black hair glistened in the moonlight, and her long green dress flowed in the breeze. She turned around, guarded. "Who's there?" She asked.

"My apologies for disturbing you," Seteth answered, "I shall take my leave." There were other places to stargaze, and she looked upset.

"No, I'm sorry," came the response, "I thought you were someone else. You can stay here if you want."

Seteth decided to stay. Leaning against the metal railing, he stared at the stars. "I used to do this with my younger sister, Flayn." He remarked. "She would tell me what was bothering her at the time and we'd look at the stars."

Mareeta snorted. "Sorry, but I'm not feeling open tonight."

"Fair enough." Seteth gazed into the sky. The stars and constellations were different, but the calm feeling he got remained.

"If I was feeling like talking about my problems, I certainly would want to know the name of whom I'm talking to." He heard her say.

Seteth smiled. "My apologies. I am Seteth, personal aide to Archbishop Rhea of the Church of Seiros."

"I have no clue what those things are, but I'm Mareeta! Traveling swordswoman and descendant of Od!"

"I am likewise clueless about 'Od', but it's a pleasure to meet you, Mareeta," he replied, "Do you wish to speak about your troubles?"

"Where to begin?" Mareeta started, "I suppose you arrived like I did? Summoned from your world to this one?"

"Yes, it is quite the jarring experience."

"Well, I don't exactly remember. I was cursed by a man named Raydrik, and I don't remember anything until today."

Seteth frowned. "Ah, I could see how that would be much worse than my experience."

"To top it all off, the daughter of the man who employs Raydrik is here, and likely the only person I know. Imagine if the only person you knew here was one of your greatest enemies!"

Seteth pondered this. Having Flayn, Catherine, and Shamir, as well as some students, certainly assisted with his mental well-being. "Yes, I would not be pleased, either."

"And Prince Alfonse told me that I just need to forgive and forget! Can you believe that?! Would you forgive someone who hurt you like that?"

"I certainly would not." Seteth replied darkly, before shaking his head, "And it is not my place to tell you to forgive." He turned to Mareeta. She was very much like some of the students at Garreg Mach. "But you're still very young, and perhaps communication with this enemy of yours would be valuable, while the opportunity is there."

"I'm not a kid!" Mareeta insisted, "And I know you're right, I just… I don't want to forgive them."

Seteth chuckled. "Forgive me, everyone looks young at my age."

"You don't look any older than mother."

"As for forgiveness, you don't need to forgive anyone," Seteth continued, "Talking to an enemy doesn't mean forgiving them, it means trying to find some sort of common ground. You may not always succeed, and it may end up a waste of time, but it's worth a try."

Mareeta frowned. "You're right, but I don't like it."

"Flayn rarely likes it either, so I'm used to the idea."

Mareeta paused for a moment. "Tell me about your sister." She finally requested.

Seteth gave Mareeta a parental smile. "Only if you tell me about your mother."

Thank you all for reading! As always, if you have comments, questions, requests, etc, please feel free to comment!