Awakening:

Reborn

Prologue

Everything has a purpose. A meaning for existence. And yet, fates can be challenged. One day, I challenged my fate…and now I live with no regrets.

While scrounging through my gaming collection, disappointment fell onto me. It wasn't much at all; other gamers would probably scoff or snicker at me and tell me to "diversify". Sorry that I like the sports genre? I'm short, unathletic, and no chance to play in a professional league, but that doesn't stop me from being the next greatest wide receiver or center fielder in the latest game. However, the mockers are not wrong. I've been having an itch to play something other than Madden or any EA Sports title. The adrenaline of winning and breaking impossible records wore off long ago. What else could I play? *sigh*

I guess I can try a new genre. What else do I like? I pondered to myself.

Only recently have I taken up a likening for cryptids. One stands out above them all: dragons. Wyverns, drakes, wryms, sea serpents…all kinds. Nothing compares to their majestic form, and yet so treacherous and cunning beings. My guess is that if I ever saw one, I would be in awe. Something tells me I wouldn't necessarily be terrified, but I have never meet anyone whom has seen one. Just myth and legends, so I shouldn't dwell on them too much. But hey, one can dream of meeting one.

Little did I know that they are more than a myth or legend. One day, I would meet one, but not a dragon I would ever want to meet. Ever. A nightmare I wished on no one.

Someone recommended a certain gaming title…

"Oh, you like dragons?"

"Yes. I'm aware of Spyro and Skyrim, but…I would like to ride a dragon if possible. Does such a game exist?"

Riding a dragon sounds fun. My nerves were on-edge.

"Actually yes. It is a JRPG though. Is that ok?"

"Sure."

What in the world is a JRPG?

"Cool, so the game is called – "

And that is how I got into Fire Emblem Awakening. The super short version without the unnecessary, unimportant details. As embarrassing to admit that I didn't know much of the JRPG realm, I needed to familiarize myself (and boy did I after I completed my first play-through). That is why I never identified as a gamer. I only played sports titles and occasional racing. I did play Pokémon, a long time ago. Hm, maybe I should try playing the newer ones…

Chapter One

There's no way I can just turn on a game and just play on through. I needed background noise or music while laying on my bed. Channel surfing had me stopped on Ancient Aliens (guess that seems appropriate). I also had on my headphones filled with said game's soundtrack. I think the TV said something about wormholes and time travelers? Whatever, I just ignored it. Had to since the ending was near. Just had to beat a few Grimleal and Grima himself.

After I did such, I let out a big sigh of relief. Finally, it was over, Grima was slain. I took a liking to Chrom, so I let him deal the final blow.

"Don't you see? You belong with us. We want you here to share our present…And help create our future."

As the credits rolled, I fought back the tears.

What a beautiful ending.

After too many sighs later, I looked back to the credits…

Phil: High Deliverer. 479 battles, 412 victories

The legendary exploits of Phil filled many a saga and delighted children hungry for a dashing tale of heroism. But what was the man really like? ...Few yet live who remember.

I lost it at that point. The crocodile tears shortly became streams.

I'm a mess.

It may have just been a video game, but I never accomplished anything great in life, nor any high difficulty ever in a game.

The best game. Ever.

I laid back in my bed and all I thought about were the characters.

Chrom. Lissa. Fredrick. Stahl. Lon'qu. Sully…

I saved the last memories of…

Her.

Wait, what? What was I even thinking? I almost jumped out of bed. They are just fictional characters. And yet, I felt like I knew them all on a deep level. They felt real. Defeating Grima was no short task and all of them played a vital role. I didn't let any of them die in perma-death. Not even Virion (poor guy, the archest of archers deserves more respect). I could picture each chapter from Southtown to the Dragon's Table. All vivid and I swore they felt real and could have been historical accounts. Did I read about a kingdom similar to Ylisse in one of my history classes? I didn't want to think at all about school; that was in the past.

Those were my last thoughts as I drifted away with my headphones still on my head. The modern music, ancient civilization in my head. Past meeting the present. Slowly, fading. Fading. Fading…

I dropped the 3DS on the ground when I passed out. Instead of breaking, the console did nothing but laid upside down on the cold floor. Minutes later, it shook. Shook? Violent shakes. Then a burst of blinding white light. A butterfly came out. A new, celestial light trailed said butterfly. It flew around the cluttered room, eventually finding a landing spot on my face.

And then, nothing. Nothingness. Empty. The dark void all around me. Not that I noticed at all. I was dreaming. Or so I assumed.

"Chrom, we have to do SOMETHING!"

"What do you suppose we do?"

"I dunno."

What? Those words, sounded familiar. Two people talking, I think. Loud noises ringing in my ears. Well, guess I should open my eyes to find out. I was way too comfortable anyway. Who needs comfort? I like to be rudely awakened.

Awakened. Awakening. Could it be –

"I see you are awake now," calmly said a man with funny clothes, a tattoo of some symbol, and blue hair.

Chrom!

"Hey there!" said a short blonde girl a little too excitingly.

Lissa!

"There are better places to take a nap than on the ground you know. Give me your hand."

The blue haired man offered his hand. I took it and he picked me off the grassy plains. The breezy wind felt really nice; maybe that was why it was so easy to sleep? As he pulled me up, I noticed something on my hand. A tattoo. A symbol. But not just any symbol, the symbol. Of the Grimleal, Cult worshippers of Grima.

Oh no. This is bad. Hey wait, how did I get here?

"You all right?"

No, I am not all right! I got the mark of Grima on my hand! Guess that makes me Robin. Chrom, you may as well be Batman. Nice cape, by the way dude.

"Y-yes. Thank you, Chrom"

"Ah, then you know who I am?"

Actually, I do. Wait, if I'm supposed to be 'Robin' then how come I don't have amnesia? I know you. And Lissa. I assume Fredrick is nearby. And I know Grima is going to –

I can't let Chrom know about this. I must hide the truth about me and what I know of forthcoming events. For now.

"No actually, I…it's strange. Your name, it just…came to me."

Nice acting, Phil. Certainly earned Best Actor award.

"Hmm, how curious. Tell me, what's your name? What brings you here?"

"My name is…it's…Hmm?"

"You don't know your own name?" said Chrom curiously.

"I'm not sure if…" Should I just tell him everything? I'm having doubts, "I'm sorry, but where am I, exactly?"

Lissa's turn to chime in, "Hey, I've heard of this! It's called amnesia!"

Coming up to me was a big man with brown, messy hair and wearing heavy armor. Fredrick.

Go ahead Fredrick, mock me, "It's called a load of pegasus dung. We're to believe you remember milord's name, but not your own?"

Yup. You are going to do so, Freddy.

"B-but it's the truth!"

"What if it IS true, Frederick? We can't just leave him here, alone and confused. What sort of Shepherds would we be then?" argued Chrom.

Thank you, Chrom.

"Just the same, milord, I must emphasize caution. 'Twould not do to let a wolf into our flock."

"Right then—we'll take him back to town and sort this out there."

After knowing I wasn't going to be the Shepherd's prisoner (thank you game-knowledge), I made small introductions to the group. I decided to tell them my name. Fredrick ever being so wary did not stop staring me down as if I were his mortal enemy.

Buddy, I have a feeling we will be good friends, so please stop the staring.

The smell of the burning stone and wood hit first. Then I saw the blazes coming from the town up ahead. Southtown. I tried to mentally prepare for the battle forthcoming, but the smoke nearly sheltering the sun made it difficult. And the fact I have never killed anyone nor even thought to do so.

"Remember, Phil, we face practiced thieves and murderers. They will grant us no quarter. It's kill or be killed." Said a stoic Fredrick.

He was right. I had to defend myself, and defend the townsfolk and the Shepherds (even though I'm sure they could handle this by themselves. Strength in numbers, right?)

Garrick and his minions had no chance. Not a fair fight since I knew the outcome. I mentioned to Chrom I could "see" the battlefield (better than having to explain to him I come from another world or time and knew future events). He bought in easily. Fredrick the Wary? Well, he needed more convincing, so I blasted Garrick with a Fire spell that went into his chest and out the back. That was enough to convince him.

Now that the thieves and bandits were demolished, I looked back to the town and saw the fires stopped. I was no longer stressed but a mix of relief and sadness over the loss of life, both townsfolk and the Plegians.

"Lucky for the town, we were close by. But holy wow, Phil! You were incredible! Swords, sorcery, AND tactics! Is there anything you can't do?"

Lissa, I can't drive stick shift. Not that there are any vehicles here, I am sure of that.

"You're certainly no helpless victim, that much is for sure." Said Chrom.

"Indeed. Perhaps you might even be capable of an explanation for how you came here?"

Sure, Freddy. I am not from here and I came through a video game console…

Actually, I had no idea how I even got here. Swore it was still a dream, but not with all the sensory overload.

"Easy there, Fredrick. The Shepherds could use someone with Phil's talents. We've brigands and unruly neighbors, all looking to bloody our soil. Would you really have us lose such an able tactician?"

Thank you again, Chrom.

"So how about it? Will you join us, Phil?"

"Yes, I would be honored."

The sun was setting over the horizon to the west of Southtown. We made it to the woods and thought best to set up base for the night there. Why? You can thank Chrom for that brilliant idea.

As we walked, I felt at unease. I knew what would come next…

Risen.

Chrom seemed to notice, "You doing ok, Phil? Something wrong?"

Debating to forewarn the Shepherds, I decided now wasn't a good time.

But when is a good time?

"N-not really. I'm nervous about – the darkness. The sun is settling and it'll be dark shortly."

"I told you—it's getting dark already! ...Ech! And now the bugs are out! Noisy, disgusting bugs that buzz around and crawl all over and bite you when— "

A flying insect of some kind flew into Lissa right on cue, "Agh! Won goph in mah mouph! Blech! Ptooey!"

I couldn't help but laugh. This was one of the funniest moments in the game to me. Not that I would have acted differently if a bug flew in my mouth…

Not long after the laughs and setting camp, Fredrick and I went on a hunting expedition. Despite my lack of skills, we manage the catch and kill a bear, and by we, I mean Fredrick did all the work. I didn't know bear meat could be so tasty; would have to make a mental note about that.

Even though danger approached us, I couldn't fight staying awake anymore. I really enjoyed the company of Chrom, Lissa, and Fredrick. They didn't know me at all, but I trust them and they seem to trust me, for now at least. I just hope when I drop the bombshell that I'm not from this world, they still accept me and not cast me out. Guess I will have to prove that at the next battle.

Which wasn't too far away…

The Cataclysm didn't jolt me from my deep sleep; that would be the screams from Lissa. Jeez, I can sleep through the Apocalypse I suppose. Feeling embarrassed for not even a second, I gathered my sword and tomes. Fire and smoke all around in the nearby forest. The smell was foul and I almost vomited. I was able to see where the Risen came from: the sky. The portal haunted me; still haunts me to this day. Those ugly Risen falling from it; must be hundreds at least.

After a quick examination, Lissa and Chrom were not injured thankfully.

"Are such horrific creatures commonplace in these lands?" I knew better but still had to ask.

Chrom answered after a breather, "They are not from Ylisse, I promise you that."

I noticed "Marth", whom also came from the portal, ran back into the woods.

"Marth – "

"We can worry about him later, AFTER we put these...things...to the blade. Eyes open, now. We know nothing about this enemy," said a visibly concerned Fredrick.

Time for battle.

Cue up the music!

Chapter Two

My nerves were racing madly, but somehow, I was able to keep my composure. Two abandoned forts in front of us; they were offering us some protection but not for long with the forest set ablaze from the Cataclysm. One of the Risen held a hammer, no doubt he'll be a tough cookie to break. My strategy was set in place.

"We should take shelter in the forts whenever possible. No doubt they will offer distinct advantages in battle," I told my companions.

"Captain Chrom! Wait! I'm coming!...Agh, I knew I shouldn'ta left 'em. All right, you ash-faced freaks! Which one of ya wants to try my lance on for size first? I know just the spot for it: shoved right up your -"

Sully. Tough lass and to-the-point as they come. And Virion bringing up the rear, trying to impress the lady.

"Sorry, Ruffles—no time for this. Onward!"

Agreed, we are in the middle of a battle, and all Virion can think about is flirting? I like the dude, but I'll have to talk to him later.

After small introductions and a swift kick that almost landed on Virion's jaw, we were focused. Chrom took out the first Risen with ease. Took me a while to muster the courage because these things were much uglier in person than in the game. One by one they fell. Fredrick, with the help of Lissa's healing, was able to fell the one with the hammer. The boss Risen let out a deafening roar as it was slain by Chrom. I let out a sigh of relief as I was out of breath of the fighting.

I need to get in shape.

"Marth" approached us, assuming to warn us of the trials to come.

"I'm not here to talk about me. This world teeters at the brink of a horrible calamity. What you saw tonight was but a prelude. You have been warned," as Marth warned before ghosting into the forest.

Bye, "Marth". I know who you are. I was fidgeting with my sword, trying not to draw attention to myself and it worked.

Fredrick suggested we go to the capital city and meet up with Emmeryn. When we got to Ylisstol, I had to take a moment to enjoy the sights. Was I sure I didn't time travel to the year 1399? It totally felt medieval, especially the architecture. But this wasn't my world. If I asked anyone from the common folk to Chrom, they wouldn't know anything of Europe (or any place from my world). Lissa tapped on my shoulder to make sure I was still conscience. No one seemed to mind, except for everyone on the streets giving me funny looks like I had three heads. Must be my Plegian coat, since Ylisse and Plegia were on edge for a war. I wish I had my clothes from home, but I'm sure I'd be labeled much worse than an outsider. I didn't make eye contact with anyone in the capitol; I didn't want any more attention from the Ylisseans.

One of the merchants recognized Chrom and pointed him out. I asked if it was normal for high rulers to walk among the commoners. In my world, it was very rare.

"The exalt is a symbol of peace—Ylisse's most prized quality. Long ago, at the dawn of our age, the fell dragon tried to destroy the world. But the first exalt joined forces with the divine dragon and laid the beast low. Exalt Emmeryn reminds us all of the peace we fought for then," said Fredrick, still keeping an eye on my every move.

I pretended to be surprised when Chrom revealed he and Lissa were royalty and siblings to Emmeryn. He offered to introduce me to the Exalt, and how could I refuse? Emmeryn welcomed her siblings first with big hugs then Fredrick with a greeting just barely acknowledging his existence. Phila entered the chambers and reported of the bandits from Plegia that we not long ago fought. Then I was introduced to the Exalt by Chrom.

"This is Phil. He fought bravely with us against the brigands. I've decided to make him a Shepherd."

"It sounds as though Ylisse owes you a debt of gratitude," said her Highness.

Trying to sound grateful and showing respect, I bowed, "Not at all, milady!"

"Forgive me, Your Grace, but I must speak. Phil claims to have lost his memory, but it is only that: a claim. We cannot rule out the possibility that he is a brigand himself or even a Plegian spy," butted in Fredrick.

Thanks a lot, Freddy.

Thankfully, Chrom had my back and claimed I fought well for the Shepherds and thus earned his trust. That was good enough for the Exalt and she gladly accepted me as a Shepherd. I dodged a close one there, I was sure. If not well, would she maybe cast me away or worse? I didn't want to dwell on the negative thoughts.

We were dismissed as a civil council was about to be held and that was for the high ranks (which I am not). Lissa took me by the left hand and dragged me away, "C'mon, there's a place I want to show you."

Guess I have no choice but to follow the most energetic princess ever…

Chapter Three

"Here we are! The Shepherds' garrison. Go on, make yourself at home," happily said Lissa.

I looked around the room. Pretty much empty except for few shelves with books on them and a stand with a candle and an oversized maroon chair. I hope I can find more furniture for this place and make it better. I had ideas but then I was snapped back into reality by two more blondes that couldn't be more different…

"Lissa, my treasure! Are you all right? I've been on pins and needles!"

Maribelle.

"Hey, squirt! Where's Chrom? I bet he had a rough time out there without ol' Teach and his trusty axe!" yelled too loudly Vaike.

Good old Vaike…I mean Teach.

"Oh, so you're 'Teach' now, Vaike, is that it? Hee hee! And here I thought people were just born lacking wits," remarked Lissa.

"Ha! Never doubt the Vaike!...Wait, was that an insult?"

Yeah, Vaike was never the smartest tool in any shed, but his budging muscles showed his brawn was nothing to mess with. Sumia then walked into the conversation, looking for Chrom as well.

"Beg pardon, but when might we see the captain?" said the brown-haired girl. She wore wing clips in her hair and had on her riding uniform, signaling she was a member of the Pegasus Knights. She seemed exhausted from a day of training or something.

"Poor Sumia. She's simply been beside herself with concern...her eyes were scanning the horizon all day during training. She might have earned fewer bruises fighting blindfolded," responded Maribelle.

Something else, or a certain someone, seemed to concerned the brunette.

"Worry? Well, I... He's our captain and our prince—of course I'd worry!" embarrassedly said Sumia.

The buff guy Teach finally noticed me, "So, who's the stranger?"

Lissa was first to answer Vaike, "No one's stranger than you, Vaike... But allow me to introduce Phil! He just joined the Shepherds. Chrom's made him our new tactician. You should see all the tricks he's got up his sleeve!"

Tricks? Um, I sure got some "tricks"; you should see how I make your food disappear if you place your dish near me.

"Oh yeah? Can he do this?" Vaike sucked in air and let out the loudest, most disgusting burp I had ever heard…and I was darn proud of him!

"I'm sure I have much to learn in the belching arts, 'Teach.' In any case, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintances. My name is Phil, as you all know by now."

The ladies in the room, however, were not as impressed with Vaike's antics, especially Maribelle, who scolded him (and me for "encouraging him"). I wanted to defend myself, but I didn't get a chance as she left the garrison. I was assured by the remaining women that Maribelle would warm up and that she wasn't a snob.

A voice came from outside. Chrom let himself in the room. Sumia was overjoyed to see him; so much that she tripped over herself and landed on her face. I tried hard not to laugh but I let a tiny giggle out. No one else was laughing, so I expected this to happen often.

Poor girl.

Chrom informed the Shepherds that we were to march to Regna Ferox in the morning and to prepare for the journey. He mentioned Ylisse needed their help due to the quarrel coming from Plegia which seemed logical, considering the incident in Southtown. Ylisse wanted to keep up good terms with the Plegians, but I knew war would be inevitable, and I think he knew that as well. Volunteers were needed for this expedition and Lissa, Vaike, and Kellam (yes, he was in the room the whole time without no one noticing) were eager. Sumia, being inexperienced, suggested to not fight, but Chrom (ever so charming in Sumia's eyes) suggested she stay by his side.

What lovebirds they are.

I woke up feeling groggy in the morning. I didn't think I slept well, but hey, that was not uncommon during my time before I was placed in Ylisse. Us Shepherds left at the crack of dawn and made our way north to Regna Ferox. I was introduced to Stahl, a cavalier that made the trip, but was late, and was told Miriel, a mage, would catch up later. We stopped at a creek near a wooden bridge. Chrom seemed tense. He sent out Sumia to patrol the area. She came back with news of Risen nearby, confirming the suspensions the exalt had. We had no other way around the Risen; we had to cross the bridge to get to Ferox. The second time experiencing these creatures helped me mentally prepare for battle, yet some of us didn't look ready. A certain muscular blonde man left his axe back at the garrison.

"Vaike, this is no time for jokes. If you don't have a weapon, stay to the rear," said the exalt.

Thankfully, he didn't have to stay in the back for long as Miriel arrived shortly with an axe for Vaike. After much deserved scolding, all of the Shepherds were ready for battle and easily took down the Risen by their lack of intelligence. I let Chrom finish off the Risen chief.

"Finally, and good riddance! But if they're appearing this far up the Northroad..." said with a concern on his face.

"Then no path is safe. We'll need to stay wary," said Fredrick, staying wary as always.

A lone pegasus flew into our direction and landed nearby. Chrom went to approach it, but the beast was startled and almost kicked Chrom in the chest. Luckily, Sumia was around she was able to calm the Pegasus (after tripping, naturally). All of us were flabbergasted by the sight of a gentle creature that not long ago had the look of rampage in its eyes.

"Oh, it's...it's nothing. Really. I just have a way with animals, I guess," said the brunette. She blushed when Chrom gave her praise. I think I caught the blue haired man blushing a little too. Not too often you see a high lord get defeated so easily.

Might have to make a mental note on that one to save for blackmail later.

The group moved along the road, leaving Sumia to tend to the winged beast. I took the time to converse with Fredrick as I wanted him to trust me, not that I have really earned it yet in his eyes. We found an open clearing along the path, which gave me the idea to suggest we spar. I needed the training and exercise anyways.
"Your grip, stance, and breathing are wrong. Focus, Phil...Again!" demanded the armored knight. I tried again, but still not practicing well enough. "That's enough for today. Your form has improved considerably. The pace of your progress is remarkable."

"Th-thanks...I feel like...I've got the basics down now...But...S-so tired…I think I'm dying..." Trying to catch my wind.

"Ha! You're exaggerating! Or at least I pray so. Otherwise you might as well die here—you won't last long on the battlefield," said Fredrick as he put his sword away.

"I suppose...but I'm exhausted nonetheless... But you... You've hardly broken a sweat?" I was impressed by Fredrick's stamina.

"I should certainly hope not. If a little training winded me, I would be in no shape to serve Chrom," stated the proud man.

"Well, I'm impressed. You must train hard to build such endurance."

"Well, I awaken before dawn each day to build the campfires...Then, whenever we march, I scout the trail ahead, removing rocks and such... Wouldn't do to have someone turn an ankle mid-campaign, now would it?"

Clearly, Fredrick was referring to Sumia. So that's why... I always thought it was just a fixation with pebble collecting...

"Beg pardon, did you say something, Phil?"

"Er, nothing important! But I owe you for this training session, so let me help you with tomorrow's fire. It'll be a snap with my magic. Find a tree, hit it with a lightning bolt, and presto!"

"Instant forest fire," as Fredrick corrected me.

"Oh! Well, yes, I suppose that...could happen... In any case, I do still owe you a favor. Whatever you like—name it and it's yours. You needn't decide today, of course. Think it over for the next time we meet."

"I am unaccustomed to asking favors, but if you insist, I shall find something."

With that, I continued for few more rounds with the practice dummies while Fredrick went to retire in his tent. The second wind kicked in, but not for long.

Fredrick just means well. He wants what is best for you.

"Yeah, and I want for best, too. I could go for some ice cream, if only there was any in this realm….no? Bummer."