Riding a horse was not as difficult as some would think. Sure, you were essentially placing your life in the hooves of a giant animal whose only real worry in the world is when it'll get its next sugar cube, but the risk was worth it. I didn't have to march on foot anymore. Well, most of the time. Either way, my legs thanked me for it. Marching for hours in full plate armor could do a number on them, after all.

If I had to equate it to something, it'd be like riding a bike. Except the bike was alive and wants to eat shit and then actually shit. That was my least favorite part.

It saves you the marching, boy scout. Quit complaining.

We set off the afternoon we received the news that Valm had invaded. Port Ferox was attacked by a fleet, and that was all the news that had come from the seaside settlement. It was a good thing most of the army was nearby, and the Shepherds had just gotten done with their routine patrols of the country, because I had a feeling we would need all of them. The size of our caravan, which basically only consisted of the Shepherds and a contingent of soldiers, was already massive. I wouldn't say it was bigger than the one that assaulted Dolorous Guard, but still sizeable in its own right.

I had to stop myself from sighing every so often. I'd known Valm was coming. Always known. I just wished it didn't happen then, so soon after proposing.

Looking down, I could see the golden band adorning my left hand, the brilliant red gemstone shining in the Ylissean summer sun. And just like that, I was smiling again. Cordelia was leading the scouting expedition, since pegasi could travel farther and faster than any man or horse. We'd rendezvous with her group in Bellator.

"You look like you're about to fall over dead," A familiar, deep, feminine voice said brusquely. "And here I am, not having kicked your ass today. What gives?"

I found myself chuckling, looking up to see Sully riding up to me. "I dunno. Maybe I just find myself weak at the knees in your presence."

Sully snorted. "Here's I was thinkin' only Cordy could do that to you. Nice to know I got my own womanly charms, then. Har! Maybe Vaike'll finally notice."

My brows furrowed. "He still hasn't proposed. Jesus, both of you have the largest amount of sexual tension I've ever seen, and you still haven't… Gods, I thought for sure after Khadein that he'd-!"

"Yeah, yeah, preachin' to the choir, here," Sully interrupted, making a talking gesture with her hand. "It's gods' damn maddening, but who gives a rat's ass? 'Sides, now ain't exactly the time to start proposin' and shit. We got a war on our hands again." Sully looked at my left hand, and smirked. "Hasn't stopped you, though, huh?"

"I thought we'd have more time," I said quietly, looking down at the beast below me. It occurred to me that I had no idea what its name was. I'd need to change that soon. Petting its sorrel mane, I turned back to Sully. "Was just a few days ago, actually. Happiest day of my goddamn life. Now, this," I continued, bitterly. "I've got a feeling things'll get a whole lot more complicated from here on out."

"Shit, I ain't good at these feelings and shit, but," Sully said awkwardly, looking off to the side before turning her attention back to me. "Just use that in your favor. Make those dastards pay for ruinin' your crap."

I barked a laugh. "That's the plan, Sully! I'm gonna end this fucking war, and when we get back, I'm going to marry the fuck outta Cordy."

"See? That's the spirit!" Sully chuckled, slapping me on the back. "Maybe you can help Vaike do the same when we get back. Little musclebound dastard just can't take a damn hint for the life of him. Maybe I'll just do it myself."

I thought for a second. "Might have to get Gaius's help for that. He's more of a people person than I am. Ah, what the hell, when this war's over, there's gonna be a lot of kids, huh?"

Sully raised a brow. "Most of us still haven't gotten married and we're already parents. Or did ya just forget about that little tidbit? Where the hell are they, anyway? All the future kids?"

I nodded my head forward. "Up towards the front of the formation. Don't ask me why; ask Robin."

"Ain't you his knight?"

"Shut up."

We stopped at Auraegis, the old fortress city. Missed the place, in a strange way. Almost nostalgic, even. I hadn't been there since- well, I thought it was during our march up to Bellator the first time. My memory was shit, though, so I might've been there after that. That was back when things were relatively simple, when we only had to worry about bandit incursions. Although, back then, if my memory was correct, I was a real piece of work.

I didn't hate my past self; I realized I wouldn't be the person I was or in the position I was in without him.

You're still not at your best. But you're not at your worst. Not anymore.

Taking some solace in that, I decided to head into town with a friend.

"I'm telling you, Vaike," I said, going down some steps with the blond-haired fighter at my side, his usual goofy grin on his face. "She's ready. She's beyond ready. I know we're heading out to go fight foreign invaders and shit, but in my opinion, this isn't something you should wait on."

"Damn, don't I know it!" Vaike hooted, conspicuously. "Let the Vaike tell ya somethin', Alex: he ain't no coward. He ain't never run from a fight, and damn him to hell if he ever does."

I looked at him like a sane man might look at an asylum patient. "Alright. Not sure what that has to do with anything."

"Ain't you been there the whole time?" Vaike replied. "The Vaike ain't the sharpest sword in the armory, but he knows love when he feels it! Heh."

"Well damn, you actually admitted it," I remarked mildly.

"Teach ain't scared to admit his faults!" Vaike proclaimed boldly. "It's just that he don't got many of 'em!"

I waved my hand nonchalantly. "Sure, sure," I drawled. "Alright, think this is the place…"

We looked up at the unassuming shop, a sign I didn't bother reading above the wooden door. I saw a few people leave with filled totes, which just confirmed it in my mind.

"Not sure if they'll have a ring or anything in here, but if you wanna come, be my guest," I said.

"Vaike's goin' where you're goin'."

"Why? Scared of being alone?"

"Nah, gotta watch yer back," Vaike said, cockily crossing his arms. "We've been through too much; can't let ya die just 'cause ya got blindsided, yeah?"

"Get in the damn door before I shove you through it."

We entered the establishment with heads held high and nothing on our minds but having a quick shopping trip before we went marching towards Bellator, and the battle that would come after it. I, however, nearly faceplanted when I heard a disturbingly familiar voice come from the counter at the other end of the shop.

"Hi!" The cheerful, light voice chirped. "Come on in! Feel free to take a look around. If you find anything you'd like, just gimme a holler!"

I looked to the shopkeeper to see a slightly taller than average woman with a fair complexion and dark red hair tied in a ponytail. Somewhat baggy clothes covered her frame. A cheery smile was plastered on her pretty face.

Anna.

Even after years of being cut off from anything Fire Emblem related, I'd be hard pressed to forget her. Being real notwithstanding. I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me for a moment. I could remember myself playing something, but I couldn't remember the name of it. It was called Fire Emblem Awakening, obviously, but beyond that…

I decided to shuffle those thoughts for later. Or never. Never sounded better, in all honesty. I had a fiancée, a child, friends. I had no use for information that didn't involve them. Everything else could be forgotten for all I cared.

Never forget where you come from, but embrace the new world.

"Hey, Alex, ya good?" Vaike asked, grabbing me by the shoulder and giving me a shake. "Ah damn, ya turned into a spacecase after all. Shame, that. Shouldn't of hit ya so hard on the head that one time, I guess."

I shook my head, coming back to my senses. "Oh shut the fuck up, Vaike. We both know I've done plenty of damage to you too. Maybe that's why you haven't proposed to Sully yet?"

"Oh yeah? Ya think that's why?" Vaike challenged. "Aight then, I'll go buy a ring! You, missus, uh…"

"Just call me Anna!" The merchant woman perked up, suddenly very interested in our conversation. "Tell me if I'm wrong, but, you said you're planning on proposing, aren't you?"

"That I am, and don't listen to this bag o' rocks back here; the rocks are all in his head, yeah?" Vaike said smarmily, causing me to scoff. "Anyway, yeah, I'm in the market for a, er, pricey possession."

"A ring, you mean? Oh, I do love bringing couples together!" Anna squealed, either showing genuine enthusiasm, or actually being just that interested. "Wait right here; I'll check the back."

Anna trekked towards the back of the store, leaving Vaike and I alone.

"Heh, see? She was charmed right silly! Maybe she'll even give Teach a discount!" Vaike smiled smugly.

"Or," I began, holding my iron hand up. "Or, she's buttering you up so you'll be willing to spend more."

"Now you're just bein' jealous, heh." Vaike chuckled. "Just you watch, the Vaike'll run outta here with two rings and plenty o' gold to spare!"

"Whatever you say, 'Teach'," I said, shrugging and trying to stifle laughter. "I'll just sit here and watch you fail at bartering."

That was exactly what I proceeded to do; I watched Vaike probably pay more than was necessary for a simple pair of gold bands, all because he couldn't keep the lid on that ungodly passion of his. Even then, I couldn't help but smile at the sight of it. It was normal. Normal. Just two friends talking and teasing each other for a good hour and a half. I'd grown drunk on those sorts of experiences both back where I came from and in Ylisse, over the past few years. Besides the monstrous bump that was Khadein, and the smaller bump that was Dolorous Guard, I'd found myself strangely at peace. Most of the time.

I knew that would end soon. Valm had made landfall.

Darkly, I wondered if I'd have to say goodbye to any of my friends.

The horse I was given, and which I'd been riding on the way to Auraegis, had sorrel colored fur and small, white markings at his hooves and forehead, with beady brown eyes. Well, not beady. They were actually kind of nice. Hell, he was really well-tempered, as far as I could tell. I remembered his breed being called an 'Ylissean Warmblood'. Whatever that meant.

We had a group who handled the horses while we weren't using them, giving us the free time we usually needed. Still, I was going to get to know my horse. As much as I could get to know a giant animal. Still had to come up with a name, too, but that was a bust.

"Hey boy!" I said, coming up to the makeshift stables. My horse trotted up to me, whinnying softly. "Yeah, it's me. How's it going?"

I knew it couldn't understand me, but talking to animals was always fun. Especially with dogs.

…I need to get a dog at some point. Hope Cordy's not allergic.

"Guess what I got you?" The horse tilted its head, looking down at the pack on my hip. "Yeah, it's in there. Get your face away from it. Heh."

Didn't know what kind of treat to get him, so I just decided to go for two: An apple and a sugar cube. The whinnying grew a little louder once I showed him the apple.

"Alright, guess I know what you like, huh? Here ya go, you giant bastard." Gently, I handed my horse the fruit, watching as he ate with what I assumed to be gusto. I'd need to study up on horse body language or something, because I couldn't read him at all. "I really need to come up with a name for you. Hang on…"

Name's were not my specialty, and they never would be. I wasn't like Owain; I couldn't come up with a million different names for the steel sword strapped to my hip, or the armor I wore into battle. However, those were all inanimate objects. Tools. The horse in front of me was alive and breathing. It felt wrong to just leave him without a name.

Well, he probably had a name, but they didn't bother to tell you when you got him from the castle's stables.

I thought for a good minute, at least, before settling on something. "How about Pippin?" I wondered aloud, feeling the name out. I nodded, smiling. "Yeah, sounds good to me. Pippin. Do you like that name?"

Pippin didn't seem to care. If anything, he looked curious about the sugar cube I held in my hand.

I laughed. "Alright, alright, here ya go you greedy ponce. Enjoy it. We might not have a lot of that where we're going."

"Ah, interesting to find you here, Sir Alexander!" An accented voice spoke up, causing me to jump slightly. Pippin merely turned his head to look at the newcomer. "Checking on your horse, I see? How thoughtful of you! We may have a contingent of wonderful stable hands to take care of them for us, but that does not mean we cannot spend the time to get to know our noble steeds more, hmm?"

Virion. Archest of Archers, and father to Grima's children.

"Lord Virion," I said, regarding the light blue-haired duke as he walked up beside me. "I didn't know you had a horse."

"Oh, but I don't, my good sir," Virion clarified, adjusting his cravat. "I do, however, like to admire them. They work so much and ask for so little in return."

"Maybe it's because they can't speak."

"Ah, perhaps so!" Virion chuckled. "It has been some time since we have conversed, hasn't it?"

"Give or take a few years," I replied, focusing more on petting Pippin's head rather than the archer beside me. "You beat me in a game."

"So I did. That really was some time ago, then," Virion continued. "I apologize that we have not had the chance to speak more often. I never had the chance to ask you about your homeland, although Lady Maribelle was forthcoming. It would seem that that no longer matters to you, either way."

I stopped suddenly, turning my head slowly to meet Virion's blue gaze. "What do you mean?"

"Perhaps it is a raw subject? Hmm, I suspected as much," Virion said, holding a hand to his chin. "I merely wanted to remark that you seem to have assimilated quite well. Why, you fight as any other Ylissean knight I have ever seen! Perhaps not as graceful as the Chevaliers of my homeland, but I know that I am biased in that regard. Were I to have met you now rather than earlier, I would have assumed you to have been Ylissean by birth."

"Gee. Thanks."

"Please, Sir knight, that was not meant in mockery or jest. In fact, I find it quite admirable!" Virion backtracked. "It is good to know of your skills and such in battle; I have an inkling that the Hero of Khadein and the Archest of Archers will be fighting side by side again before too long."

Everyone in the Halidom knew we were going to Valm. I'd almost completely forgotten about Virion, though, and that he was from the western continent. If I remembered correctly, he was the Duke of Rosanne or something similar. He also ran when his country needed him the most, when they were going to fight Walhart with everything they had as long as he was at the helm.

He's a coward.

Rationally, I knew that he made the best decision given the circumstances. Even then, in my opinion, it would have been better to die fighting for a better future rather than running away so that your people submit willingly to a rampaging tyrant. What kind of a life were his people living, under the Conqueror's thumb? Would that be a life worth living?

That way of thinking was stupid and dangerous, but I couldn't help but feel it.

"Yeah, maybe," I said quietly, giving Pippin one last pat on the head. "I think I'm going to go to sleep. We have to get up early tomorrow."

"I… Of course, Sir Alexander," Virion replied. "Pleasant dreams."

I left the stables quickly, not wanting to spend another minute in there. I was being irrational, of course, but my rational moments were few and far between, and by God, was that not one of them. Opening the flaps to my tent, I haphazardly threw my things to the side and climbed into my bedroll.

…I know you miss her warmth, but with luck, you'll meet up with her in just a week.

Wasn't some lovesick puppy or anything. Cordelia was my fiancée for God's sake. And I knew she could take care of herself. Maybe I'd just grown used to sleeping with her by my side.

Uneasily, with lingering thoughts, I fell asleep.

Bellator was quiet.

That was the first thing that hit me. It'd been years since I'd even thought of the place, but even then, I could tell something was wrong. A certain tension hung in the air, thicker than butter. The typical Feroxi architecture seemed more run-down than I remembered. Even through all that, somehow, I felt a pang of nostalgia.

Didn't make sense why I felt that; last time I was in Bellator, Robin and I almost got into a fist fight. Those were times I didn't like to think about. It all seemed like a blur in my head, that time, like I was seeing it from someone else's eyes, and not my own.

Whatever. We have a war to start.

The fortress of the city sat on a hill, with several walls. Just like I remembered. We ascended the long ramp, and when we arrived attendants took our wagons and horses. I said bye to Pippin before we entered.

We were shown to a somewhat large room with a big round table in the middle, and several chairs.

The first war council was about to begin.

"Is she held up or...?" Chrom said, squinting at the door as if it'd make Flavia appear.

"Perhaps she had other business to finish, milord," Frederick spoke up with a slight wheeze. He demanded he be brought along, despite his state. His wound was still affecting him, but he could move around, at least. "She is the reigning Khan after all. 'Twould be expected."

Myself, Chrom, Robin, Frederick, and Phila were in the room, just waiting around for when the Khans would show themselves.

"This may seem a breach of etiquette, milord," Phila began. "But I do have some news I was unable to share with you this morning."

Chrom stared longingly at the door before sighing. "Go ahead, Phila."

The white-haired falcon knight nodded. "I have received a message from Cordelia. She should rendezvous with us soon, along with-"

The doors burst open. "Gods' damn these dastards-! Got my advisors all freaking out," A deep, but distinctly feminine voice boisterously growled, before looking at all of us gathered around the table. "Ah, damn, almost forgot you all were here. Sorry about that. Having the western harbor taken makes people jittery, though. Sure you understand; couldn't just leave them alone without some reassurance."

"I understand completely, Khan Flavia," Chrom said. "There's-"

"Oh, please, Chrom, I appreciate the title but you of all people should know that we're basically at war right now; leave the titles at the door, we're all brothers and sisters-in-arms from this point forward, ya hear me?"

Chrom blinked before chuckling. "That's, ha, that's reassuring. Anyway, I've brought all the men I could with me. Do we know anything about what's happening to the west?"

"What's happening, he asks!" Flavia laughed. "I'll tell you what's happening: everything that daughter of yours from the future said is gods' damned true. Speaking of, where's the lass, by the by? And that clumsy Queen of yours?"

"Well, I tried to keep her from coming, but..." Chrom said, looking to the table awkwardly.

"She demanded to come, in simple terms." Robin finished for him, his arms folded on the table. "As I understand it, she would not take no for an answer. She's with the others as we speak; she'd rather focus on keeping morale up for our troops."

"Ha!" Flavia barked another laugh. "That's the spirit! Sometimes I wonder if you're part Feroxi, Prince. Ya sure got the same taste in women as one!"

"I believe it would be prudent to get to the matter at hand," Frederick rumbled. "If we dawdle too long, the Valmese will overrun us, no matter how much we have prepared."

"I concur with Sir Frederick," Phila said. "The longer we are in the dark, the more time they have to march into our lands."

"Bunch of sticklers, huh?" Flavia raised a brow, sitting at the head of the table. "Fine, then. 'Spose we better start someplace." Flavia coughed. "Around two weeks ago, I got reports from my men stationed at Port Ferox that a ship had come in. Turns out, it's the first ship from Valm in over a damned year."

Embargoes are fucked.

"They had a woman on board," Flavia continued, crossing her arms. "Said she had more info on the Valmese and how they were gonna invade. Course, we already knew that from you, so that didn't surprise me. What surprised me was that the damned Valmese were right on her coattails. Several ships, so it's said. A vanguard. The real invasion fleet is still away."

"How many? How many ships? Men?" Robin asked.

"A dozen ships, at least." Flavia reported. "Filled to bursting with cavalry. Even with the men I had stationed there, they were overrun within a few days."

"I should have asked to station troops there," Robin said quietly, his eyes not meeting anyone else's. "If I had I could have-"

"No use crying over it now. Besides, think of it this way: it'll be easier fighting 'em for the first time on our own soil rather than that foreign slog-pit they call a continent." Flavia shrugged. "Besides, you're here now. All that matters to me. Nice to know you Ylisseans keep your promises."

"I'll never turn away a friend in need," Chrom added adamantly.

"Is that you see us as? Friends?" Flavia asked. "Hmm. In any case, they're here now, and we better show 'em what we're made of. As far as I know, they haven't left the port. It's almost like they're waiting for something."

"Perhaps waiting for the winter. Hmm," Robin said, curiously. "Yes. Attempting to establish a foothold and beachhead, rally their troops during the winter, then running over all of Ferox once next spring arrives. Tell me, Khan Flavia, is this woman who stowed away on that ship you spoke of earlier here? What can you tell me about her?"

"Her name's Cherche. Gorgeous lass from Roseanne," Flavia said. "She was able to escape the harbor on her wyvern before it was completely conquered."

"A Wwvern?" Chrom echoed.

"And mean as hell too. Har! It snapped at Basilio when he tried to ask the lass some questions. The big oaf squealed like a girl!"

"I will be back," Robin said suddenly, standing up. "I want to speak with this woman before I devise a strategy. Alex, with me."

"Ah, I was wondering why the blond was with you," Flavia said quietly. "Retainer or something?"

"Yeah," I spoke up. First word I said throughout that entire meeting. "Robin keeps me around. Kinda like a stray dog."

"A stray wouldn't attack at my command," Robin commented.

Flavia held a hand to her chin, chuckling. "Heh, so just a dog then? Interesting." Flavia waved her hand. "Go ahead and talk to her. She's down in the aerie with her Wyvern. Just be careful, alright? Still need your head for when we take back my harbor."

"Alex."

"Yeah?"

"Just wanted to clarify, I don't actually think of you as dog or anything degrading like that."

I chortled. "Don't worry about it, man. That kinda joking around is good for the soul." I shrugged. "Anyway, this Cherche character…"

"Do you know anything about her, perchance?" Robin asked, brow raised.

"She's Virion's retainer," I said, taking a breath as we walked down the hall. "Virion is a real noble, you know; he ain't just putting on airs. Even if he is a coward."

"Hmm," Robin hummed, staring down the hall to the door to the aerie. "Well, then. Let us see for ourselves."

The big wooden doors opened to reveal a large stone room. It only had three walls; where the fourth would be was a gaping hole to the outside world. The sun hung low in the sky, the orange light filtering through thin curtains of mist. A squawk to my left as we entered alerted me to the presence of a griffon. It held its beaked head high and spread its feathery wings. I felt a chill down my spine looking at it, like I did with pegasi. At least I was used to them; Griffons were almost completely alien to me still.

What really got to me was that there were no restraints to keep them in the aerie. They just sort of lazed about. Although there was one place they were all seemingly avoiding. A little corner to our left. The griffon's eyed that area with piercing eyes, and I could hear voices coming from it.

Robin and I exchanged glances, and moved forward.

"Virion, were you to worry over me much more, Minerva would be jealous." I heard a giggle. "And we both know how she can be. I find it cute, but others find it less so."

"Ah, but you know me, Cherche. I cannot help it when my beloved retainer so brazenly risks her life for my sake…"

"Loathe as I am to say it, I did not risk my life just for you, my lord," The woman was quick to rebuke. "I did it for the duchy. For all of Rosanne."

"So you did. And I could not be happier with that fact," The accented male voice replied.

Robin decided then was the time to make ourselves known. "I hope I am not interrupting something?"

The long-haired noble spun around, a friendly smile on his face. "Ah, Grandmaster Tactician! A surprise to see you here, to be sure, but a welcome one. I assume you came here to check on my retainer?"

Robin nodded. "Yes. Although I'd prefer if you'd just call me Robin, Virion."

Virion blinked. "Of course. My apologies. What is a title among friends, hmm? Not that I would ever desire to lose my own. The Archest of Archers is a title worthy to be whispered around the campfires of our enemies-!"

"Please ignore my lord, sirs, for he knows not that what he says is embarrassing to all associated with him," Cherche said, a dangerous edge in her voice.

The Rosannean woman stood up, impressing me already with how tall she was. Certainly stood taller than Robin, for sure. Long hair trailed down her back that fluttered in the wind slightly as she walked towards us.

"I take it you are the Grandmaster Tactician of Ylisse? Robin, was it?" She asked, smiling. "A pleasure to meet you, sir. My name is Cherche de La Trémoïlle, retainer in service to Duke Virion of the Duchy of Rosanne."

She curtsied then. In full armor, so it looked more like a fancy bow, but the effort was appreciated. In fact, now that I got a good look at her, she looked exhausted. There was a strange sound between a gurgle and a yip behind her, and I saw the massive reptile Minerva in the flesh, slitted eyes staring at us wearily.

"Ah, but how could I forget?" Cherche continued. "The cute darling behind me is Minerva, the best companion a girl could ask for."

"Indeed," Robin said slowly. I looked to him, seeing the most confused expression on his face I think I'd ever seen. "Well, you already know me as Robin. The man to my right is my knight."

"Alexander Jameson Wright," I intoned, nodding my head slightly. "Nice to meet you too."

"I am glad to see that you both have found each other again, it would seem," Robin said, putting his hands behind his back. "However, and please tell me if another time would be better, but I have a few questions regarding the Valmese, as well as the ships that followed yours."

Virion's expression grew sour as he looked from Cherche to Robin. "I do not think that would be wise, Robin. My Cherche has been through a great deal already-"

"Please, Virion," Cherche interrupted him. "I am not so weak that I cannot answer a few questions." She fixed Robin with a stare. "Ask what you will."

Robin nodded gratefully. "Thank you. It will not take long, I assure you." He coughed into a gloved fist before continuing. "You know more about this invasion fleet than anyone else. Tell me, how many ships are there in waiting? How many are yet to come?"

"Dozens," Cherche said, her tone low. "Dozens in the vanguard and well over a hundred in their main force." Cherche's gaze did not break. "Naval combat is not their specialty, however. A large force of experienced sailors could break through their fleet with ease. If those are in short supply, then it is a numbers game."

Robin frowned. "We do not have many ships."

A sad truth, really. We could certainly buy off a few ship captains in Warreth and Tathis, but that wouldn't nearly be enough, I would think, especially considering the fact that Ylisse had a serious lack of experienced sailors. Isolationist policies would do that to a nation. We had the men, but we didn't have the means.

With the lack of shipyards, building them during the two years we were given wasn't really probable, especially when we were paying for and training an army.

Looks like a trip to Plegia is in our future.

"Then I should hope you are prepared," Cherche replied, sitting down next to Minerva. "The Valmese will not wait. Is there anything else you wish to ask?"

"Only one more question," Robin murmured. "This Walhart, I've heard him called. The Conqueror. Who is he?"

"He is a monster," Cherche said simply, as Minerva growled. "Plain and simple. He takes and conquers what he wishes. He absorbs those who submit, and burns those who retaliate. He is neither worthy of pity nor mercy. If, and when, the time comes, I suggest we remove his head from his shoulders and feed it to Minerva. Oh, but that won't do. It might make her sick. Best to toss it into the ocean."

The sheer tranquil fury etched into those words nearly made me take a step back. I heard Robin's coat ruffle slightly as he shivered.

Let's not get on this woman's bad side.

"That is enough," Virion stated adamantly. "I trust this questioning is over, Robin?"

"Of course," Robin replied slowly, bowing. "I apologize. You have been incredibly helpful."

"Anything to tear the Conqueror from his throne," Cherche said, looking off to the side as she kept a hand on Minerva's head.

"Er, quite." I could almost hear Robin gulp. "I shall leave you both alone. Thank you once again."

Robin turned and walked past me.

I watched as he walked before turning around and nodding. "Miss Cherche. Duke Virion," I said succinctly, before following Robin out the door. The griffons watched us as we left.

"Well, that got unnecessarily tense." I summed up, crossing my arms as Robin leaned against the stone wall in front of me. We hadn't gone far from the doors to the aerie; we were just in front of them, in fact.

"Had we a medal in Ylisse for the most obvious thing to say," Robin growled. "Hundreds of ships, Alex. Dozens in this vanguard alone. They conquered an entire harbor in naught but a few days. We have trained this army since the end of the last war, and yet it still feels as if it isn't enough! If only Emmeryn hadn't closed the shipyards! If only the captains that could commandeer said ships were around! And what with Grima's return on the horizon as well… Gods!"

"Woah, hey, hey!" I said suddenly, stepping forward. I put a hand on Robin's shoulder and gently shook it, bringing him back to reality. "Look at me, Robin. Everything is going to be fine! We've gotten this far! It's no use to just give up before shit's even started!"

"That is easy for you to say," Robin muttered.

"Maybe because it's true," I retaliated.

"I would not be so sure." Robin shook his head. "But, you are right that it isn't good for me to so easily break down at the first sign of a bump. Forgive my outburst."

"Nothing to forgive, man," I replied, shrugging. "Just, uh, keep yourself together. We need you."

"Hah. So you do." Robin breathed out. He took a deep breath, pulling his coat closer to himself. "I suppose we had better return to the war council-"

The doors burst open from the other side then, almost crushing both of us. I heard the light clanking of armor as female voices talked amongst themselves. Once I moved past the door, I recognized the distinctive armor of pegasus knights. They marched down the hall after they briefly apologized, two bodies held between them all.

I watched them as they went, turning to look at into the aerie again.

"Matilda, inform Commander Phila that we've arrived," A familiar, lovely voice ordered. "Tell them of what we've found. In the meantime, I'll-!"

"C-Cordy!?" I nearly squeaked.

I could see her, standing in the middle of a group of pegasus knights. I hadn't seen her in weeks, so, well, I liked to think my reaction was understandable. It wasn't everyday that you're called to war the day after you propose to someone after all.

Cordelia wore different armor than I remembered. This one was streaked with gold at the edges, with a grey under armor beneath the steel plates. A winged helmet sat atop her head, which she took off once she saw me.

"Oh Gods," I heard Robin groan, faintly. "Are you two about to-?"

She reached me before I could her. She giggled as she wrapped her arms around my neck, and I returned the favor.

"Gods, Alex!" She laughed openly. "Had I known you would be here to greet me, I wouldn't have tried to move everything along so quickly!"

"Well, guess I thought I'd surprise you," I chuckled, looking into her red eyes, a goofy grin on my face. "I knew you'd get here eventually. Still, I missed you."

"Oh, really?" She smirked, bringing a gauntleted hand up to cup my cheek. "Just how much have you missed me, I wonder?'

I leaned my head down and pressed my lips against hers. She squeaked slightly before responding in kind.

It's almost like the world doesn't exist outside of you two.

"Ahem." Robin coughed awkwardly. "I hope you two realize where you are. And who you are giving a show to."

I blinked, looking to my left and my right, seeing Robin looking unamused at us on one side and a small group of pegasus knights blushing and giggling amongst themselves like school girls. Cordelia must've realized it too, because we both jumped away from each other like the other was radioactive.

I coughed into my iron fist. "Er, well, yes. Nice to see you again. Knight-Captain."

"And you, Sir Alexander," Cordelia replied, her face trying its best to maintain its stony expression. "…and you as well, Grandmaster Tactician."

"Likewise," Robin said, walking up to us. "Now that the impromptu tryst is over with, I find myself curious." Robin looked behind him down the hallway, where a few Pegasus Knights were dragged two bodies just a moment before. "What was that about?"

"We found two Valmese cavalrymen on patrol. It seems as if they have been sending out scouts to map out the surrounding terrain. We spotted them on our way here and subsequently captured them," Cordelia reported clinically, giving her subordinates the eye. "I was hoping we could learn something of the Valmese incursion were we to bring them here."

"That was very prudent of you. You have my thanks." Robin nodded. "Taken to the dungeons, I assume? Phila will doubtless be there in a few moments. Hmm." Robin raised a hand to his chin, his red eyes focusing on something that wasn't there.

Cordelia looked at me like I was supposed to know what was going through his head. I merely shrugged.

"I may have a plan on how to defeat the Valmese at Port Ferox," Robin said after a moment. "But that would require me to see these prisoners. Alex? With me."

"You don't need to keep saying that," I groaned quietly. "I'd've followed you anyway."

It didn't take us long to get to the dungeons. Cordelia stayed behind to speak with her subordinates, although she assured us that the ones she sent with the prisoners would inform those still in the war council about what happened. Either way, we descended into the depths of Bellator's fortress, the only sound being the crackling of torches and our footsteps.

"Guess we're just gonna give free reign to you guys, huh?" A deep voice stated, before laughing. "Har! Not that that's an issue. Long as you Ylissean's keep your end of the bargain, you can keep going. Just don't forget 'em down here, alright?"

Robin looked up to see a massive brute of a man talking to the group from earlier, his arms crossed but a jovial smile on his chiseled face. Once he saw Robin, however, he laughed again and pushed past them. "Well, I'll be damned! If it ain't Robin! You old skinny dastard!"

I watched with mirth as who I assumed to be Basilio slapped Robin's back, guffawing all the while. Robin sputtered, stumbling slightly before standing straight again.

"K-khan Basilio," Robin greeted, catching his breath. "It's a pleasure to see you again too. I was wondering why you weren't at the war council."

"Ah, it's all hogwash; I don't have any power, what would be the point of me being there?" Basilio shrugged. "'Sides, never been comfortable during those damned things. Fighting's one thing. But a war with a giant empire? That right there's another thing entirely. But anyways, who's that next to you?"

"Hmm? Oh, this is Alex, my sworn knight." Robin replied nonchalantly.

I titled my head. "Nice to meet you, Khan Basilio."

Basilio stared at me then, unblinking. One eye against two. I felt like I was being analyzed, scrutinized, like he was trying to discern whether I was an Ylissean noble pansy or a warrior made of sterner stuff.

My gaze didn't falter for a second.

Basilio smirked. "Heh, likewise, kid. If you're the one guarding this albino dastard here, I'm sure you can hold your own. Anways." Basilio looked to the two cells in the wall. "Guess I'll leave this sorry lot to their fates. Ain't like they're going anywhere. Gotta go rally the men to march anyway. Make sure you don't break them or anything, yeah? May have something useful to say.

Robin nodded. "Would never dream of it."

"Ha!" Basilio barked one last laugh. "If the new Ylissean army is anything like the Shepherds, we might not have anything to worry about! Have fun."

And with that, he was gone. The group of pegasus knights bowed to us, and scarpered off.

I stepped forward and peered into the side-by-side cells, seeing the unconscious forms of the two Valmese cavalrymen. Well, one was clearly a cavalrywoman, but semantics. One was much larger than the other, actually, which was strange.

Nice to know Walhart's Empire is all-inclusive, at least.

"Alright," I rasped. "Here they are. Don't think we'll be able to get anything out of them for a good long while, though; they're out cold."

"Whatever information they could have provided pales compared to what we know," Robin stated, looking at the two prisoners with half-lidded eyes. "I wanted to gauge their sizes. I'll need their armor for the plan, after all."

I stopped and turned around, staring at the robed tactician. "What?"

Robin waved his hand. "You will know in a few moments, Alex. The others will probably be here in just a few moments. We can discuss it then."

"Uh, dad."

"Yes, Sev?" I asked, strapping Pippin's armor on and hoisting our 'cargo' right next to the saddle on his back. "C'mon, don't leave me hanging. You're scaring Pippin with that grumpy face."

"He's a horse! How the hell am I scaring him!? Granted, I'm amazing in combat- You know what, nevermind." Severa threw her arms in the air. "Just, what's going on? Why're we both riding out on our own?"

A muffled grumble from the 'cargo' next to my saddle was her answer.

"And why is Gaius bound and gagged on your horse-!?"

I shushed her. "All in due time, young one." I sighed to myself, messaging my temples.

Robin, this is crazy. You're crazy. I'm crazy. WE'RE ALL CRAZY-!

"All in due time." I repeated.

And that's a wrap. Hope you guys enjoyed the Chapter! Not a lot to say this time, so I'll just end the AN here.

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Edited on 3/14/21. Good chapter all around. Alex and Cordelia are cute.