Chapter Twenty-Seven

The alter was easy to spot: grey stone pillars that were uncannily similar to Stonehenge, if that structure didn't erode. In the middle was a small white marble floor surrounded by several steps. We stood back as Chrom trudged up and unsheathed his sword with one hand and held the Emblem in the other.

"Be careful, Chrom." Lissa waved at her brother. Lucina patted her on the shoulder.

"We must believe in him, Aunt Lissa."

Chrom lifted his arms and spoke out loud to begin the process, "Hear me, Naga! I bear proof of our sacred covenant! In the name of the exalted blood, I ask for the divine dragon's power! Baptize me in fire, so that I may become your true son!"

Nothing happened for a minute. We looked around at each other and began to think this wouldn't work. Hopelessness was creeping in and I called for the brethren to link arms. I asked Libra for a few words of prayer and he did so. Not long after, a gush of wind came from the west. He turned to Chrom, who appeared on fire. He laid on the ground, clinching the shield with the Falchion besides him. The translucent flames danced on his body, but didn't consume him. It was quite a spectacle, but nevertheless bothered Lucina.

"Father!"

Chrom got up and inspected his body for any injuries, "I'm…I'm alright!" A blinding, white flash appeared. Out stepped a figure in a glorious aura of radiance. It had to be her.

Naga.

We bowed at her awesome presence. She smiled and lifted up Chrom, "Be welcome, Awakener. Your heart has been tested and deemed worthy. Cleansed in my fire, your desire has proven to burn the stronger."

Chrom tilted his head in anticipation. "Then you will grant me the power to defeat Grima, the power of a god?"

"Yes. But know this: I am no god."

The respond confused Lucina, "But milady, you are the divine dragon!"

The god figure smiled, "So do sons of man name me. But I am no creator. I possess not the powers of making or unmaking. And neither does Grima. Neither of us bears the power to destroy the other utterly."

Then what makes a god supreme being? Chrom was losing patience. "Then what power can you grant me?"

"With my blessing, thou may draw forth Falchion's true might. The blade of the exalts shall again strike like the dragon's fang. Your strength will then be my equal."

"But not strong enough to destroy Grima?"

"Alas, Grima cannot be slain. Sleep alone can be your victory, just as your ancestor put the fell dragon to sleep a millennium ago. But you must weaken him first."

Sleep? Putting the fell dragon just sleep was not a good enough answer; he needed to destroy it. Lissa cried out, "Isn't there any way to destroy him for good?"

Naga pondered for a moment then came up with an answer, "There is, perchance, a power that could end Grima. However, that be his own."

Frederick spoke stoically, "He has to kill himself?"

Naga spoke frantically, "Yes. And never would he do so of his own volition. He seeks only to add to his power, and set ruin upon the world. Now come, there is little time."

"Where is Grima now?" Chrom asked.

Naga pointed in the general direction, "To the west lies a volcano known as Origin Peak. You shall find the fell dragon there."

"Looks like Origin Peak it is. Let's hurry! The travel will be long and we don't have much time!" I yelled. We packed our belongings and started the path into hell. Naga's physical manifestation disappear, but her soul lingered around with an indescribable sensation. I ran toward the Shepherd leader.

"Chrom, if I may have a word before we leave."

"Sure, Phil. What is it you have to say?"

I sighed and connected my thoughts. I wanted to be as coherent as possible. "I want to make sure you feel ok…and I'm not talking about physically. You already know the stakes at hand. We are going to march possibly to our deaths. But I swear, I refuse to let that happen."

"That is encouraging. Is that all you had to say?"

"No, actually. You know how that sword of yours has only prevented that monster from destruction every so often? Well, I believe I know of a way to break that unholy cycle."

Chrom's eyebrows lifted. "You do? Please share."

"Well, you aren't going to like it…so please gather everyone here."

Chrom signaled for Frederick to corral the Shepherds. High energy and determination filled their hearts after seeing the divine dragon herself granted their fearless leader with great power. I made the assumption now was a good time for a revelation. I took a moment to look into each pair of eyes that focused on me.

"Everyone, I have something I want to share. But first, I want to apologize again for any and all mistakes I've been along the way. I especially am sorry for insulting each of you and then being a coward by deserting you when the world needed as much help as possible. You don't have to tell me that I'm a horrible person; I am my own worse enemy. And knowing that, I have to tell you this: you've heard by my other 'me' that we are connected and one of the same essence. I don't want to believe it, but it might be true. I have a theory. If I strike the final blow, he'd be killed by his own hand, and therefore…"

"We will win the day! Hurray!" Vaike interrupted and lead a chant of victorious roars among the camp. If Chrom asked anyone to run up and challenge Grima alone, they would do so without a second thought. My intent wasn't to rattle the group in such high spirits. I only wanted to warn them of dire consequences.

I pulled Chrom aside from the mini-celebration. "Chrom, that is not what I was going to say. There's something more, something…"

Chrom hushed me by raising his hand. "Peace, friend. I know of the stakes, we all do. We all have loved ones we care for and the future at stake. It would do you well to get extra sleep tonight."

"But you don't understand!"

"Peace, Phil. Let them have their moment of fun. Didn't you see the look on all their faces? Would you want to ruin their enjoyment?"

It was true, most of the Shepherds celebrated. One stood out that wasn't as riled up: Lucina. She knew better and it was possible she had foresight in what I was going to reveal to everyone. I opened my mouth and lifted a finger, but thought better. "No."

"Good. Let's head out and find a safe place to settle camp."

We walked together, about forty yards behind the group. Before catching up to them, I turned my head up to Chrom. "Hey buddy, do us a favor, please."

"Anything."

I smiled and patted his shoulder. "Make sure when we settle down, set up half of the tents. Let each couple share a place to sleep together. They deserve it and need as much alone-time as possible before the final battle. And so do you. Cordelia would be pleased, I'm sure of it. Treat her well."

The blue haired man stopped dead in his tracks. The wheels began to turn in his mind as he knew what my offer meant for the morale of the unit. He must have had ideas for the nights ahead because his face turned a cherry red. I almost felt sorry for him to suggest such a predicament. "I dare say, you sly dastard, that is a great idea…consider it done."

Origin Peak was over the horizon, which meant we were only several miles away. The orange hue in the sky with purplish clouds covering some of the mountain were a sight to be seen. If the situation wasn't as urgent, a painting would be in session. But not today, not now with the world at stake. We settled at the end of a forest for the afternoon and progressed the necessary preparations for the following day. The War Council voted to leave at dawn and proceed the final attack. I retired to my quarters alone wanting to do last minute pleasure reading. I assumed this would be the last time for myself, but I was interrupted by someone at the entrance.

"Come in."

Sumia came in backwards dragging in a sack while trying not to trip. I offered a helping hand but she waved me off. I wondered what could be in the belongs.

"So, what brings you here?" I put my novel to the side to give her full attention.

She dumped the belongs near my feet and fidgeted with her hands. "Well, since we are going into our last battle soon, some of the women and I made special equipment for us after Mount Prism and you see…actually, just open the bag. Those are for you."

I was really curious now. I stared at the beige fabric for too long. Sumia coughed, snapping me out of a daze. I untied the string and reached into the sack. I pulled out armor and clothing. I took out a silver pauldron for my left shoulder, engraved with flowers and the Naga symbol. The rest of the armor matched the metal and provided cover from feet to thigh. The cuisse didn't fully protect the legs, but that was not a problem. Given the preference of agility or defense, I'd always go with better movement. The last items were the real treats: a royal blue shirt with the Brand of the Exalt stitched as a sky-blue color, pants that resembled jeans in tri-color; black and the two shades of blue in the shirt, and my favorite article which happened to be a black leather coat with symbolic references to dragons. Fangs ran down horizontal were buttons would normally be. A draconic head patch was sown on in the back. It was as if they knew what I liked and made a style to fit my taste.

I opened my mouth as wide as my eyes. "Jeez, I don't know what to say! This is all really nice. You and the girls outdid yourselves."

The brunette giggled and blushed at the compliment. "Hey, you aren't done yet! What is a warrior without a fancy weapon?" She presented me with a sword, but not any blade. It was a special metal hallowed out with blue diagonal pieces in the fuller. It was a Brave sword. Welded properly, one could swing faster, allowing for multiple attacks on an opponent.

"You really shouldn't have, Sumia. This is wonderful."

She stood proud with her hands at her hips. "I'm glad. You need to look the part of a hero if you want to be one."

"Thanks…um, did the others get new armor and weapons as well?"

The pegasus knight answered happily, "Yes, of course! But you have wait until tomorrow. I was given orders to deliver the goods, but no one is to wear their gifts until the morning when we make that last push."

I knew in an instant who that person was. "I see. Go tell Freddy the suspense is killing me…and thanks again, Sumia." I chuckled to myself as Sumia exited with a small grin.

"I guess I can wait," I whispered to myself as I lifted my book from the table and continued to read for the rest of the evening.

The sunlight broke through the tent and hit my eyes. I squinted while rubbing them. I turned over and put my feet to the ground. Going through the usual routine, I almost forgot the new items. I threw on the clothes and fastened the armor. The sword stood vertical in the corner, gleaming as if calling for me as its rightful owner. I took a few practice swings and was pleased. I never felt more ready for battle. The eagerness clearly showed with step taken while meeting up in the center of camp.

The Shepherds traded glances with one another in their new outfits. Gasps and jubilant shouts ringed in the air. The styles reflected their own personalities while the overall color coordination were shades of gold, white and either black or blue, depending on the class the person held. The last to arrive were the Exalt and Queen. Chrom wore a cape over his armor and clothing. The white and gold stood out with linings of baby-blue. Cordelia continued to wear her red dress, but her gold-and-white armor overshadowed it. Her sleeves were white with gold trimmings, matching her stockings in similar fashion. She sported a new white scarf as well. Her pauldron was gold-plated and had pegasus feathers sprouting on the bottom. Finally, her wings in her hair were traded out for golden ones.

Only one word could describe the couple: resplendent.

"Wow, guys…you two look like harbingers of hope and salvation for humanity," I stood in awe of their presence as I spoke what was on everyone else's minds. I faced Cordelia specifically and stared into her eyes. "And you, Cordelia…you look amazing, like a real queen." I tried and failed to not let my jaw drop.

She placed her hands at her hips and smirked. "Oh really? Are you suggesting that I never looked like a queen before?" Cordelia turned to her husband, "Dear, have I always looked dreadful before I wore…this?" She showed off moving in a 360-degree spin for all to see. He stood silent enjoy the view.

I tapped on Chrom, startling him. "Hmm? Oh, no! You've always been beautiful, Cordelia."

That response didn't fly well with the Queen. "Oh really? Then how come you've never stared at me like that since our wedding day?"

Chrom was caught red-handed and stalled for a good excuse. "I can explain…you see, well what about that time when we…umm, did that thing?"

"Enough of this." Frederick inserted himself. "Now is not the time for gawking. The stakes have never been higher; Chrom, they need your leadership."

Chrom coughed into his hand. "Right. Everyone, I don't need to remind you what is ahead of us. You can already see the mountain top. We will face against our biggest and deadliest foe, but there will be no greater glory to be obtain and future of promise. I know what each of you are capable of and together, we will defeat that monster. You have my word I will fight to my last breath. Now, are we all ready?"

A roar of agreement echoed.

"Ok, my Shepherds, let's move."

We reached the base of the grassless, red mountain with an unholy welcome. Aversa waited for the Shepherds with the patience of a lurking predator. Coming down from a rocky top, she held out her arms in greetings. Silence from the Ylisseans as they stopped the march forty yards away.

Clearly upset, she pulled back her hands and frowned when there wasn't a proper response. "Really, now…still at your little schemes?" The dark mage's tone deepened. "Butchering Validar wasn't enough? Do you see what your great struggle has won you? Nothing! Master Grima has returned; the world's fate is sealed!"

Chrom and his comrades remained still. Aversa grinded her teeth but then cackled and made her usual obscene gesture with her chest involved.

"Or perhaps you simply seek a tender embrace here at the end, hmm? I'm not completely cruel, you know. Come, I have a kiss for everyone…especially for you." Her long finger pointed at the Great Knight General. Frederick glared back and spat in the ground. He wanted to say something as he moved forward in the ranks, but Chrom put a hand on his breastplate.

"Easy, Frederick. I promise you'll have her head by the end of the day." At those words, the general relented. "Shepherds, save Aversa for last." Everyone nodded and I patted Frederick on the back. Our friend had gone through unimaginable torment for almost two years. This was his time to shine and obtain his revenge, he thought. The Exalt pulled out the Falchion and walked straight. "Charge!"

Aversa gave her signal as numerous Plegians and Grimleal followers sprinted into the battlefield. From brigands to mages to wyvern riders, the enemy was filled with almost every class and rank. Knowing the biggest threat was from above, Virion readied his silver-and-blue bow. Cordelia and Cherche took to the air, trailed by Nowi and Tiki in dragon form. They fought head-on with wyverns and griffons and held them at bay. On the ground, Lissa and Libra provided primary and secondary healing along with Sumia as tertiary support. Chrom, Lucina, Vaike, Sully and Say'ri broke off and traded blows on the mages with the help of a hex from Tharja. She and the remaining group attacked the non-magic users. Despite being outnumbered ten to one, Grima's allies had no chance. Seeing Cordelia, Cherche and Nowi gaining edge in the sky, Tiki dipped downward and cleared a fiery path with her tremendous breath. The corpses melted in an instant in the consuming blaze. With the odds evening out, I ordered for a trio to advance onto the wicked witch.

"Murderers! You'll pay for taking Master Validar from me!" Aversa sent black magic our way, affecting the progress of pursuit. Henry chanted a protection spell to counter any sneak attacks. After throwing an axe that hit its target, Frederick had a clearing. But Aversa would not go down easy. Throwing everything but a kitchen sink, she was able land a few dark bolts. Henry groaned in pain, but continued to hold his goofy smile. Frederick got knocked off his horse and held his right knee in agony. Aversa swayed her hips walking over to the injured men.

"You just had to make it difficult. This wasn't necessary. Contrary to belief, I am a forgiving woman." She stepped on Henry's stomach, making her way toward the wary man. She picked up his scuffed chin and whispered, "Surrender now, and not only will I spare your life, but I will fulfill your wildest dreams."

Frederick grunted and reached for his lance. Aversa looked down and kicked it away. She laughed manically and took out a dagger from her left boot. What should have been the screams of a dying man were substituted for the shriek of a woman.

"Not today! Your end has come!" Kellam jerked back his bloody spear and mounted it in the dirt. Aversa cried out again with hands on her lower torso. She backed away and fell on her knees. Kellam went over and lifted his friend to his feet. Feeling an object in his hand, Frederick knew what to do. There would be no more taunts and no more reminders of his depressed state over the loss of loved ones. His revenge came not soon enough.

"You picked the wrong god…now starting praying!"

The blade of his sword swooped down. The head rolled downhill. Aversa was no more. Frederick closed his eyes and sighed. He looked back at a red soaked landscape with small embers burning. It was over and Chrom and his people gathered around the general. Sympathies, smiles and comfort in a form of a tidal wave overwhelmed Frederick. The group hug was welcomed and wetness developed on his face.

"Thank you, everyone."

The cheery moment would have to wait. The air thickened and thunder roared. But the noise was overtaken by a rumbling and then a screech.

"Yikes! What was that?!" Lissa was visibly shaken.

Only one thing could have made that call…

"Grima." Lucina winced.

"We can defeat him!" yelled Chrom.

The certainty of victory was not shared by all. Even Frederick was frightened. "Milord, how does a man challenge a mountain? Where would one even strike?!"

We zipped glances at each other, hoping someone had an answer. A glowing figure appeared in splendor.

Naga.

"The fell dragon has a weakness on the nape of his neck. But that weakness will be guarded by his servants. I can send you onto the dragon's back, but the rest is in your hands."

Everyone bowed respectfully and Chrom rose first. "Then please, milady, and make it quick. We would ask no more of you." The rest got up. Given the circumstances, we prepared mentally the best we could. How would one pursue to kill a god? But with Chrom as our fearless leader, we claimed we would go into hell with him. The time for words was over; action was required. Our faith in Naga and Chrom would be put to the test.

"Everyone, arm yourselves! One way or another this ends here!"