Deliverer of Birthright

by romeoraiden

My First Story. Two Nations. One desperate enough to bring a terrible war, the other more concern for themselves, and at the center, a sheltered Princess is forced to make difficult choices for the good of all. In her quest to do what's right many will stand with her and many more will oppose, throwing her in a state of despair. And from the chaos a Fallen Hero will rise again.

30. Chapter 30: Untold Tales

Chapter 30: Untold Tales

"So, this is Notre Sagesse." Robin said looking ahead at his surroundings. He finally made it to the famed island where the legendary Rainbow Sage resides, he searched everywhere he could and now he hopes that his efforts will finally bear fruit by coming to this place. This island has always held a reputation for being a home for Sages and scholars of the likes as well as a peaceful grounds where Nohrians and Hoshidans can live in neutrality when wanting no part in the inevitable skirmishes between the two nations and going elsewhere is for whatever reason not possible. The main appeal of this island is who founded the settlement, the alleged holy and immortal man who lives in the Sevenfold Sanctuary on the top of the mountain. It's never made clear if the man is actually immortal, some claim that the title of the Rainbow Sage is actually a mantle passed down from apprentice to apprentice through a secret occult following not known to even the people who live on the island are sworn to guard the Sacred Treasures left behind by their creator in return for being bestowed with tremendous powers.

Too many rumors, too many speculations over the centuries, the only thing people can agree on is that those who enter the Sanctuary have to go through Death itself for the sake of achieving the great power of the holy weapons. And in the short span of a decade, the cycle of repeated failures over the millennia came to an end by Corrin's older brother, the current Crown Prince came here and pass the now nigh-impossible trials of the Sage, followed by the High Prince of Hoshido who many believe came here out of jealousy over Xander's achievement to claim his own Holy Sword and succeeded as well. Not long after Corrin's younger brother too desired a Sacred Treasure and also passed the trial. Both Siegfried and Brynhildr are powerful weapons more akin to tools of Darkness than Holiness but Robin can feel the greatness and authority they radiate that has brought great pride to the Royal Family of the Dusk Dragon. Corrin is convinced that it's only natural for her half-brothers to have succeeded since they are the pinnacle of Nohrian strength and wisdom, however Robin strongly disagrees, though he'd never voice his opinion when he suspects that the trials were rigged. Nearly two thousand years of warriors from all around the globe failing to reach the Sage's favor and only recently has the trial proven to be no longer impossible. Something is up but that matters not to Robin.

"Time to get a move on." Robin said as he walks into the town proper, ahead of him are rows of narrow thatch roofed houses with small inlets of water weaving through. He is instantly reminded of Nohr's own coastal town of Dia, though there aren't that many people on about, from what he's heard, there's hardly a dull day on this island, the people here are lively and yet for a mere moment he might've mistaken this place for a newly ghost town if he hadn't caught a glimpse of a person in the second floor of the house on his right in a window who quickly shut it close, removing her from view. It was quick but he noticed know panic, nor the slightest hint of fear, maybe a bit of anxiousness. He's seen behavior like this before, many villages would resort to remain indoors when a passing group of soldiers passes by and would remain out of sight until the army leaves to avoid getting in their way and starting trouble all together. Has another contender arrived to challenge the Sanctuary? He did notice a hoshidan style ship as he flew by the port but it doesn't look like any he would presume belong to a Hoshidan of the upper echelon. Sturdy enough to handle the violent waves of the ocean but nothing prep for war, curious since it wasn't that long ago that the Nohrians began sending their Sea-Grimm to scour the seas, to the horrors and protests of practically everyone not from Nohr.

Now that he thinks about it, Robin's not sure if Corrin knows about the monsters her parents have let loose in Horus, her siblings talk about them often but never in her presence. How curious but that's a matter for another time.

The wondering Tactician turns to focus on a lone figure who was casually walking down a side street, an old woman, withered and aged, carrying a small basket of bread in arms. Finally, someone to get information from.

"Greetings! Pardon me for the intrusion, ma'am but may I speak with you." Robin greeted as he walks to the old lady, getting her attention.

"Oh, are you speaking to me?" The Old Lady asked.

"I am. Forgive me if I am bothering your schedule or whatnot but you are the first person I laid eyes on the island. I'm new here." Robin spoke with her politely.

"Truly, I would've noticed the arrival of another boat arriving." She said curious, as far as she knows, only a band of Hoshidans arrived today and despite the seclusion, everyone in town or at least a large portion would've noticed another arriving. Now that she has a better look at the White Mage, he seems Nohrian enough by his uniform alone, though she seldom has ever met a Nohrian wearing white. A common reaction to the White Veil of Trust as it is a rare topic of discussion.

"Don't worry about that, is the Hoshidan ship the reason why the town is so quiet. All the rumors claim that you people were of the lively sort?" Robin asked wanting outside conformation.

"Yes, normally we're a very welcoming party to outsiders coming to explore or settle down but ever since the Crown Prince of Nohr passed the trial of the Sanctuary, too many unsavory fellows have been coming in for a chance at glory." The Old Lady frowned. "Sure, people preferably come and go to meet with the Rainbow Sage and claim a Sacred Treasure but those were actually a rarity as either they believed the legends enough or thought wisely not to test their luck but then that sweet young lad, Xander became the center of attention and inspired foolishness in others. The High Prince Ryoma was lovely enough, can't say the same for his Retainer but everyone else couldn't have left sooner and like with the Nohrian Royals, Prince Ryoma also returned and he brought his siblings for more power. Kids these days, I swear, they have no real value for their own lives, testing the patience of someone who's practically a god on this island." She shook her head in disapproval. "I take it you're another foolhardy lad?"

"In many aspects, yes, but what I want from the Sage is not power." Robin said, turning his gaze over to the fortress.

"Oh, so it's knowledge then? If so then you're in luck. Young minds looking for enlightenment get a free pass." The Old Lady said more softly. "Though, I suggest you wait it out until tomorrow because when it comes to pure-bred Hoshidans and Nohrians, the best solution is to stay out of their way, hence why everyone is staying indoors. They marched into Mount Sagesse an hour ago and they should be at the top pretty soon at their paste."

"I see. Thank you for your time, ma'am. I'll trouble you no longer." Robin gave a bow of respect as he takes his leave, choosing to go forth into the Sevenfold Sanctuary regardless. Once he is sure he's far enough away from prying eyes he goes to the Sevenfold Sanctuary via flight just as he arrived on the island without the need of a ship. Flying always brings too much unwanted attention so he prefers to take flight when not within view of others. He makes it to the top of the mountain in no time and lands right at the door step.

No sign of the Hoshidans yet, maybe they're already inside or they still haven't reach the top. Hopefully the latter. He really should've asked the lady how many Hoshidans set out on this journey, that's what he gets for being in a rush but he's already here so he might as well get this over with. He pushes the large doors to the Sanctuary open and proceeds inside and already he is impress by what he finds. The architecture of this fortress is a perfect hybrid of Nohr and Hoshido, instantly he can tell that Corrin would love this place. Her opinion of the White Night Kingdom is not of high regard due to all the negative things her siblings have said about the East of Horus but she's shown interest in wanting to know more about the more peaceful nation and she would much prefer peace between the Kingdoms instead of them going to war. She may enjoy a good fight but only when its meant for sports and nothing as intense.

While he is caught in the moment of such an impressive hall, his gaze turn to a portrait on his left that is most peculiar, the drawing depict several floating islands with towns built not so different from the buildings in Nohr but with unique changes here and there and the sky is rend in pieces, giving it an otherworldly look that makes it all the more fascinating.

'This has nothing to do with either nation and definitely feels out of place.' Robin noted, most curious by this portrait. 'Not really my place to judge once choice in architecture since I never held high standards for such things. Still, something about it seems familiar. No, that can't be right. Can it?' He pondered really hard about this as the portrait really has him lost in thought.

"You there!" Robin is forced out of his stupor as he turns to the Sanctury's entrance and sees five Hoshidans standing there, three of them being Ryoma, Hinoka and Takumi.

"Is that a Nohrian?" Hinoka asked apprehensively, the hold on her Naginata too tight for Robin's comfort. "I've never seen a uniform like that before."

"I have. That's a White Veil of Trust. A uniform given to a select few nobles or common soldiers in Nohr who have been given the ''honor'' of having the attention and favor of the Royal Family." Saizo, who's next to Ryoma explained while narrowing his one good eye, more ready than anyone about attacking the stranger. Judging by the look in Ryoma, he already knows about the White Veil himself. "It's been some time since I've seen one, they usually stay to live in the Dark Capital because of their privileges."

"He's on Garon's buddy list!" Takumi snapped with rage, more than happy to shoot his silver yumi right at Robin, who easily catches the arrow with just two of his fingers, to then snap it in two, to the young prince's shock. "Damn, I thought only ninjas could do that."

Robin knew having this armor would eventually be more trouble than it was worth outside of Nohrian soil but Corrin insisted he have one before he set out to ''find his way home''. Too bad he lost it after he made the mistake of taking Corrin to Windmire to celebrate Halloween. He still doesn't know how he ended up with those hobos but he's lucky that he was able to get it back quickly enough when he returned to the Capital. That's a story that will never be revealed. He would rather have an awkward drink with Vaike after almost killing the moron for stealing his ring than let anyone know about that.

"How did he even get here before we did, there were no nohrian ships when we landed?" Hinoka protested.

"Doesn't matter, he's here, where weapons of ultimate power lie dormant. Let's just kill him already!" Oboro suggested demonically, holding her weapon way more tightly than Hinoka while she is trembling from suppress rage.

"Okay, so maybe Leo was on to something." Robin muttered, very disturbed by Oboro.

"What if he's not alone, there could be more Nohrians all over the place infesting these hallow grounds." Takumi said.

"I'm alone and no, I don't care if you believe me or not, that's more your problem." Robin said dismissively, hoping to avoid conflict. "I am not here for the Sage's toys. Just stay out of my way, there's no need for senseless bloodshed."

"A very likely story." Ryoma scoffed with clear disbelief as he draws his sacred sword, ready for a fight, to Robin's mild irritation but he doesn't show it. Still, he has to admit that is one impressive sword the red armored samurai has, Robin can feel the power surging through it, at first glance it looks like a unique, hoshidan-style Levin Sword but it's so much more than anything a magical blade of lightning could ever hope to be.

"Milord, do not waste your efforts on this swine. We'll handle this." Saizo offered.

"If he really holds ties with the Royal Family, then he's worth more to us alive." Hinoka suggested. "We must gain all we can to get Corrin back."

"Corrin…" Robin repeated in a whisper, gravely confuse by what she could mean but brushes it off as he just knows that things will turn ugly one way or another with this group who are really hostile.

"Ryoma, what's going on. Has the trial started already?" Asked a newcomer, reaching the five Hoshidans, now catching her breath as she is within Robin's view.

Robin is once again caught off as the girl he sees is the spitting image of Corrin's stepmother, only clearly younger and with way longer hair and a truly remarkable white dress that gives off a vibe that she is a dancer of some kind. Could she be…

"Stay back Azura and return to Sakura! There's a slight delay on our task." Ryoma instructed her, his eye growing more narrow once Robin turn his gaze to Azura.

"I really should've listen to that old lady." Robin muttered, regretting coming here now far too late and he really doesn't like the intensified glare Ryoma is giving him, like he's accusing him of being enamored at first sight enough to take Azura.

"What a mess." He muttered, deciding that he best go and reach the Rainbow Sage first. The bitter conflict between Nohr and Hoshido makes it difficult for anyone perceived to be of one side to avoid a fight with the other, this is especially apparent in lands not dominated by either of them where people ''rationalize'' that one of them will spread their ''corruption'' wherever they go.

"This bickering will get us nowhere." Robin hissed in irritation. "This place has a very long history of fallen warriors from all nations. Fights are unavoidable but those searching for the Old One shouldn't be pointing their blades at each other."

"Shut up! Like we would ever heed the words of the likes of you." Takumi snapped in defiance. "Nohr has already gotten their hands on two of the Sacred Treasures, I'll be damn if they get anymore to fuel their thirst for destruction."

"As I said, I'm alone and if getting some fancy, ancient magical weapon for the sake of more power was my objective, I would've brought a battalion of elites like the Nohrian Princes did and as I assume you have yourselves, otherwise I'm just marching to my death." Robin try to summarize to the Hoshidans. "Whatever beef you have with Nohr, leave me out of it." Robin warned as he attempts to leave without starting a fight.

"How dare you speak to the Royal Family like that, scum!" Saizo seethed with rage as he and Oboro charge in to execute the White Mage for his disrespect.

"No, wait!" Ryoma warned. But it is too late as bolts of lightning are fired from the ceiling of the main hall but they were not casted by Robin and these lightning spell stop the two retainers from advancing further against Robin and from the very same spot where the lightnings stroke, four people stood in their place. Three men and one woman, two of which are dressed as Soldiers of Nohr, A Ranger and Adventurer and the other two are Hoshidan, a Swordmaster and female Onmyoji,

"It has begun." Ryoma narrowed his eyes as he steps forward, walking pass Oboro and Saizo to face the four individuals and as he does so, the Ranger speaks.

"High Prince of Hoshido, you have some nerve coming back here. You've already received your blessing and the honor of wielding the Sword of the Thunder God, and now you come lusting for more power." The Ranger lectured with a very commanding and crude voice that if it was an actual Nohrian, Ryoma's devoted allies would strike him down before anyone could blink but they know these aren't Nohrians, much less Hoshidans and wisely restraint themselves before they do anything that would embarrass or endanger the Royals.

"I beg you to forgive my impudence, it was not my intention to defy the wise old sage of this holy place like the Nohrian Royals have." Ryoma spoke with the upmost respect, and even makes a vow of respect to them. "However, I fear I must commit what the residents of Notre Sagesse would view as a Cardinal Sin. The Third Twilight War is inevitable, the signs are all over the air, Nohr will find a way to break through my mother's barrier one way or another. It's not a matter of if but when, as such I must have more power, not for my sake, for my family."

"If you will not relent, then you must once again stand before the Trial of Strength, and the Master hopes that you've learned your lesson and brought in more powerful soldiers than last time." The Swordmaster spoke next, raising his sword for combat, and just then, Takumi, Hinoka, Azura and the rest of their party as well as Sakura show up and join the fray.

"However, also like Crown Prince Xander before you, if you wish to assist your siblings in achieving success, you will momentarily relinquish your sword." The Onmyoji decreed. "Those who desire power beyond human comprehension must earn it with their own strength and not with strength given to them."

"I accept these terms." Ryoma replied and as a jester of good will, tosses Raijinto to the Swordmaster who grabs it and just then a bolt of lightning strikes once again at the blade, teleporting it away and replacing it with a different Katana.

"You can have your blessing back once you succeed or fail." He said as he tosses the sword to give to the Prince. "If you survive this time."

"Finally, a chance to rise to the occasion." Takumi said with high enthusiasm, craving for this opportunity.

"Just try and not slow me down." Hinoka said humorously.

"And as for you, Lost Hero, if you have not come lusting for more power than you already wield then step aside and do not interfere in this battle." The Adventurer spoke to Robin. "If what you truly desire is wisdom and the answers to questions that elude you, you must wait your turn. The Master will see you when this is over."

"Fine." Robin sighed, relief that the Hoshidans won't harass him and walks back outside. Ignoring the glares and suspicious glances they give him as none of them bother to make another scene, likely due to him obeying the rules of the Sanctuary, he spares a quick glance at Azura, now certain that she is Queen Arete's stolen daughter but also gave a glance at the Rainbow Sage's soldiers and notices the fainted glimpse of them being transparent for a brief second.

'Phantoms.' He thought, concluding that these four aren't really people but specters of a sort. He doubts they're spirits raised from the dead. He would've noticed the slightest hint of Necromancy due to his immense experience with the power of Death. They must be powerful illusions with physical forms that possess the skills of real warriors created by the Rainbow Sage's immense magic power. Incredible. And there are probably more of them all over the Sanctuary.

Hoshido focuses on infantry with spears and swords, with a heavy reliance on archers, while Nohr focuses more on their cavalry with entire platoons of magic users as back up. Hoshido's flying units specialize in long distance combat, Nohr's are more built for direct assaults. Hoshido prefers lighter armor for mobility and speedy first strikes, Nohr prefers bulkier armor to tank hits before counterattacking. If these two forces could work together in perfect synchronization, one would have the greatest human army of all time that Robin has ever seen, and based on what he's seen, Chrom and Walhart's armies on their own wouldn't be able to compete with just Nohr's might and with the phantoms all linked to the Rainbow Sage there's perfect harmony amongst them. Which explains why passing this Trial of Strength is so difficult, especially with the Nohrians and Hoshidans who have tried it, the Sage keeps exploiting their weaknesses while compensating his own with the strength of the other country's soldiers he's mimicking.

Xander's an amazing warrior and Leo is quite brilliant but he doubts that they could've overcome such odds, especially when considering the latter's infuriating ego. This honestly strengthens the theory that their trials were rigged. The question is, can the same apply to the Hoshidans? Guess he's about to find out, Ryoma has already been through this before so he must have an idea on how to handle this. Even if he's not a Tactician he surely has a keen mind to adapt to situations enough to give his allies a better idea on how to handle this, of course the real question is can they actually pull this off? If these really are the Hoshidan Royal Family and their Retainers, then the hotheaded archer must be Prince Takumi. There's a lot to say about him, mainly that he's more likable than Leo but still as infuriating.

This will not end well for them.

And Robin was right, as impressive as the Hoshidans are, especially Ryoma who has experience in this sort of fight, they're overreliance on their usual skillset to overcome the false Hoshidans ''tainted'' with Nohrian power, as some of them put it proved insufficient as Robin predicted were just superior, especially as more of them arrived to even their numbers. The fight is infinitely worse for Takumi, who's impulsiveness put him under the clutches of a female Adventurer who's own skills with a bow and hand to hand combat left him with two arrows on both his shoulders and getting pin to a wall with a single kick, effectively already down for the count with his two retainers stepping in to defend him but it only serve to ensure the demise of the three with the others on able to help and at best just watch. However, judging by the ferocity the Phantoms are displaying to the Retainers more so than the Royals, Robin gets the feeling that they are trying to avoid killing the more important members of Hoshido society on purpose, this seems to be especially the case with Azura but their Royal Guard not so much and must be seen as fair game. Xander did lose his first set of Retainers when he underwent the Trial the first time.

Judging by how Leo described the event to Robin, it seems that Xander hasn't fully recovered from the loss of those who sacrificed themselves for him, and if what he's also heard about Ryoma is true, he might feel the same way if any of his comrades died in his pursuit of more power.

'Just like Chrom…' Robin mused internally, his thoughts returning to repressed memories he's tried to seal away permanently. That's settles it!

Against all common sense, Robin marches into battle, saving Takumi, Oboro and Hinata by ramming himself into the Adventurer, knocking her away and she crashes into a Ninja that managed to sneak behind Kaze unsuspectedly to kill him while he is occupied helping Hana fight off a Blacksmith.

"What the!" Takumi uttered in shock to see Robin come to their aid. The White Mage then turns to the other Phantoms, raising his left hand upward to release a stream of lightning that hits nearly all of them, reducing them to dusts, to the shock of the Hoshidans.

"Incredible…" Azura muttered in shock of the display of power.

"What the hell are you doing?" Takumi demanded, flabbergasted.

"Helping you, apparently." Robin shrugged.

"Help! From a Nohrian!" Takumi shouted as if that's the most offensive thing ever committed upon him.

"I would rather die!" Oboro snapped and in a fit of rage raises her naginata to attack Robin but a wind blast from the only Phantom to survive the lightning strike, a female Dark Knight hits her in the face and knocks her out cold.

"Oboro!" Takumi cried.

The Dark Knight rushes towards Robin with her Silver Sword, that the Tactician blocks by cladding his left hand with Magic to harden his forearm, followed by him catching her sword arm before she could make a second swing. Robin prepares to shoot a fireball at pointblank but a second sword manifest into the Dark Knight's left hand to make a third, faster swing but Robin leaps out of the way in time with the Dark Knight following after him with a higher leap. When Robin lands back down, the Knight swings both her blades down on him that Robin repels by forming a magical shield that releases a shockwave as soon as she hits it that blasts her away. It does little harm to her as she easily backflips and lands on her feet, seemingly unharmed. This one is stronger than the others, no doubt empowered by the Sage the moment Robin displayed his might.

Silence engulfs the main hall with the Hoshidans watching intently at the Nohrian that aids them against the Phantom

"Robin of Titan." The Dark Knight spoke up with the authority of someone ancient and wise. There's also a sensation to her presence that is pleasantly familiar to the Tactician as well. "How predictable."

"Predictable? You know of me?" Robin questioned the specter.

"It is the business of my Master to know all in Horus, you are no omission." She declared, getting Robin's eyes to twitch.

"Then you know why I'm here." He deduced.

"We might." She replied now with a smug. "By all means, go see him if you're so impatient. Only those who seek the Sacred Treasures must reach him the hard way, those who desire wisdom and truth get a free passage."

"Most tempting, however raising arms so ferociously and possibly killing Hoshidans these prestigious will not bold well if word gets out. At least with the Nohrians this violence makes sense, so how about I do your master a favor and spare him the antipathy." Robin declined, choosing to aid them.

"He's what?" Hinoka muttered.

"As I said, predictable. The inability to ignore the helpless has always been your greatest weakness, for you have no hubris to exploit." The Dark Knight taunted as both her swords fade away and in their place the Raijinto is summoned for her to wield.

"My sword!" Ryoma gasped.

"What the hell, are we supposed to fight spirits wielding Sacred Treasures?" Hana protested at the unfairness.

Robin gets the feeling that he is a special case. Suddenly, out from the ground on his left, a golden sword bursts out, the deadliest of all in this world.

"It can't be!" Ryoma mumbled, recognizing the design of the blade from old scrolls he read.

"Is that the Yato?" Kaze uttered at the sight of the blade.

"Yato?" Robin repeated, not yet familiar with the legend of this sword.

"The Masterpiece of destruction built by the Lord of this Mountain. It's been a while since she has tasted the thrill of combat." The Dark Knight offered him.

"And your boss wants me to give it a test drive to see if it hasn't rotted?" Robin mused not as impress as the Hoshidans by the sword.

"No… why him?" Takumi growled furiously, attempting to get in the fight with the aim to have the sword but the Phantom fires a warning shot from Raijinto that narrowly hits his neck, keeping him petrified. Afterwards, the Dark Knight attacks Robin with blinding speed, forcing the Tactician to pick up Yato and use it to defend himself, the moment the two blades clashed, Robin found himself outside of the sanctuary with her.

"Consider it a test of the soul, since you're so reluctant to wield the sword of your lost legacy." The Dark Knight offered.

"Reficul is not my legacy!" Robin snapped with bitterness over the mention of the dark sword he keeps buried within his own soul and pushes the knight off him and luckily, they are far enough that the Hoshidans can barely hear them.

"But it is. It is proof of your benevolence that can overcome all Corruption in the Universe but the shame that should not exist stains your chance at rebirth." She countered.

"You don't know ME! And being aware of all that I overcame is not the same as experiencing it!" Robin's anger rises as he points the Yato at her. "So don't speak as if you understand what my Fate is."

"Then the time for words is put on hold. Such is the nature of humans for the sword to be mightier than the pen." The Dark Knight lectured. With no more words to say, the two begin their fight, the knight clad in the holy lightning of Raijinto moves with incredible speed but none that Robin isn't prepared for as he successfully perries the lightning strike about to hit him from above but the moment he did, she vanish from sight. Fortunately, Robin is accustom to such a speedy attack and correctly deduced that she would strike next from behind and again perries her.

'Is she even trying? No way she's this incompetent. She must be toying with me.' Robin thought, knowing it couldn't possibly be this easy. 'This must be a part of the Trial. Guess, in the Sage's eyes, I've officially joined the Hoshidans and wants to see if I'm really good enough for one of his toys.'

He heard the green ninja call the sword he is wielding Yato. He's sure he's heard that name somewhere in Corrin's library regarding the legend of the War the Dragon Gods of this world started. The Hoshidans seem pretty awestruck to see him be granted this blade, but also gravely upset and dare he even consider it, frightened. He can already tell that this thing will bring more trouble that he can bear anymore.

The Dark Knight makes another move, running circles around him, literally at lightning speed, planning to strike him in many ways that Robin could only guess and didn't have time to plan for as the Dark Knight stops running and stands right in front of him but the lightning she left behind while running continues to circle around him and keeping him trap with no way to escape and as the lightning glows brighter, Robin knows he's stuck right at the heart of a magical blast. As it explodes, a blinding light engulfs the main hall, forcing all, even the Phantom to shield their eyes from the blast, and as the light fades, Robin lies there standing on a crater but now completely in case in ice, or more accurately, a perfect icy sculpture of himself lies there in his place.

"What the hell happened to him?" Hinata protested in confusion over this development.

"Is this the Yato's power?" Ryoma wondered.

"The sword has already accepted him as his new master this early and the Alpha eagerly awakened by itself. Incredible." The Dark Knight whispered as the outcome of this fight exceeded expectations.

Right behind her, a twister of icy wind forms and from it comes out Robin who swiftly attacks her as she narrowly parries in time but unfortunately for her, Robin has had enough of this fight and delivers brutal but swift swings with Yato that she can hardly keep up, even with Raijinto, and with one last swing, Robin slashes the Dark Knight, opening up a large gash on her chest but no blood comes out, unsurprising since she's not real and immediately she is in case in ice, the shape of a raven's right wing.

With the battle won Robin takes a moment to catch his breath, dropping to his knees, staring intently at his new sword which has changed, and he didn't even notice until now. The blade radiates a silver colored aura, the crossguard slightly widen, having a more ornate look and it also has a knuckleguard. The magic power it possesses is incredible, the fact that it enables him the ability to warp on its own speaks values of what makes it so legendary but it also feels suppressed, like the scope of its power is incapable of awakening on its own.

Just like Falchion.

The changes don't last as the blade reverts back to its original and more dormant form. "Fickle little thing." He mused as he gets back on his feet and back inside the Main Hall with the Hoshidans who already regroup and start to recover from the difficult battle, the one who remains down for the count but still alive is Oboro so far and soon all eyes turn to Robin, all of them weary of what comes next after witnessing this stranger harness the power of the Sword of Salvation, or rather the Sword of Demolition.

"So, it looks like we're stuck together, the question is are you that desperate to see this through or should I go at it alone. I've already been given a free passage." Robin asked the Hoshidans, though it could've been seen as another form of disrespect for all he cared at this point. Silence once again consumes the hall before a respond could be made and it came from the High Prince.

"And pray tell, what is it you have in mind if you're so willing to throw yourself into Holy Fire for us?" He asked though it's as easy as feeling the breeze to tell how reluctant he is to even consider this, however he will at least hear him out. Though, the only one who has yet to still grasps the real meaning behind his words is his stubborn brother.

"Ryoma! You can't seriously be considering this! Accepting help from him! This NOHRIAN!" Takumi protested in defiance.

"I am considering nothing, Takumi. Guard your tongue before you say anything you may possibly regret." Ryoma warned him. "I share your fears on this new predicament, the threat of the Sword of Demolition is likely to be a gruesome fate to fall upon us, so it be wise not to earn an ire that can be avoided."

His words seem to have done the trick in calming the great archer down but only enough to agree to let his wiser brother do the talking.

'Sword of Demolition?' Robin repeated in his thoughts and already proven right that this new sword is going to bring him nothing but trouble and he has a lot of reading after this is over. That is if the Rainbow Sage really can offer him what he most desires.

After many protests, a small discussion about trust that turned into a moral debate between nations too quickly, to Robin's chagrin, angry glares and frighten squeals from Sakura, Robin ended up leading these morally challenged who almost pass off as hooligans when Takumi speaks as they fight more of the Phantoms together and they seem to come back stronger than the last but against all odds, they succeed and reach the doors to the Rainbow Sage.

"Please tell me that's the last of them?" Hinoka pleaded while breathing heavily, almost on her last knees with Sakura frantically healing her as she has been doing constantly as these fights are too brutal that even the ever competent Subaki and headstrong Saizo are almost at their wits end. The only one who isn't out of breath is Robin who was forced to use more of his power which did wonders in getting through some of the more tougher foes, though besides himself, Ryoma and Azura are the other ones with the least injuries.

"Yes… we made it. Once the doors to the inner chamber have been reached, we pass the trial." Ryoma sighed in relief. "This second trial was much harder than the previous one."

"You don't say." Azura mumbled by how intense this was. And to think the reason they made this journey was due to her birthday coming up, granted she agreed to do this knowing the dangers because she wanted to help those who have made her feel less of a prisoner and more a friend. At least the ride at seas getting here was wonderful, but she just knew that the destination would be less than generous.

She turns her attention to the stranger who aided them coming this far, Robin, she believes is what he named himself, she honestly couldn't hear him straight with how obnoxious Takumi was being. He really can go overboard when it comes to outsiders of the West. She could never forget how he was like with her at first even though things are better between them but it still stung to be at the receiving end of it, yet the newcomer proved completely indifferent to the hostility, quite annoyed to be sure but to be so tolerant and still want to help those who oppress him, even taking blows for them, including herself when he held on to her to protect from a surprise attack by a Phantom Berserker is what truly comes off as foreign to her. How she wishes everyone from Nohr was like that, perhaps then she'd still be with her true family. What's more, his strength is almost godlike, to confront such odds and still appear invincible. If the blade he wields truly is the Yato, then she really does understand why her hoshidan allies are so wary. If he truly is their enemy then Hoshido might as well surrender before they do end up fighting.

"Just who are you…"

"So, now what, do we wait for the Sage to come in or do we open the doors ourselves?" Takumi asked.

"Not to come up as rude but the former is preferable." Ryoma said, and at the nick of time, the doors do open up by themselves, revealing the master of this Sanctuary, the Rainbow Sage, holding on to Raijinto like a cane as he stands before his new contenders.

"Great Sage!" Ryoma spoke highly as he attempts to stand tall before him in spite of his injuries.

"Ryoma. You surprise me, not for displaying the same boldness as Xander by coming here again after enduring my Trial once already. That petty likeminded attitude is predictable for royalty but that in spite of your… ''better'' judgement, if that is how you really see it, you chose to accept the aid of someone you foresee as a threat. It takes a true leader to swallow their pride to make unlikely alliances to achieve a common purpose." Hydra praised. "Most impressive."

"You honor me with your praises, Rainbow Sage but I confess that what I did was more of a means to an end than making an ally we wish to hold on to for the foreseeable future." Ryoma professed, not exactly surprising anyone as they didn't bat much as an eye when allowing Robin to take most of the blows for them, making the Tactician roll his eyes but not that much offended.

"Perhaps. Even still, you have more potential than you yourself realize outside of combat. In time you will understand and hopefully, you may become a fine King when the Throne of Light is yours to sit." Hydra said, having high hopes for Ryoma despite his issues with his father. "Regardless of the circumstances, you once again pass my trial."

That sent a ray of hope to the Hoshidans who are more than relief that this journey was fulfilled with no loss of life to themselves, like the first time when Ryoma came here, he was fortunate to have lost no one in his self-imposed mission as well.

"Before we talk about my treasures, however, I would have words with you." Hydra said directing his unseen gaze at Robin. "You say you come here seeking knowledge, not power?" As he asked, Robin nods in confirmation. "Then you may enter my sanctum first. The rest of you remain here and recover, my magic will mend your wounds."

As he said so, the floor below them starts glowing green as if a healing spring from a Dragon Vein was activated, already they feel the magic healing them faster than Sakura or Azama ever could, allowing the Diligent Princes to rest.

"A Dragon Vein… but we didn't sense anything." Azura muttered as she and the Royal Siblings should've been able to sense the ancient power to harness due to their Dragon Blood.

"Wait a min-" Takumi was about to voice his objection to Robin going first before Ryoma gave him a look that wordlessly send the message; ''Say NOTHING that would come off as disrespectful'', to the stubborn Prince's chagrin but obeys nonetheless.

Without batting another eye at his ''allies'', Robin follows the Sage into his sanctum, as the doors close, people outside suddenly feel a world away from them, as if he did more than enter a large room, though Robin chose to ignore the issue and focus on his main objective. Hydra walks away from him a bit to spare a glance at the large portrait of the Precursors before speaking.

"I expected you to come here sooner, finally leaving the sanctity of Corrin's protection in search of answers to your latest plight. Robin of Titan."

"So you do know who I am?" Robin said for verification.

"Like my Phantom told you, it's my business to know all in Horus, I couldn't live with myself more than I already do if by some chance someone like you were to slip from my sight." Hydra said with some amusement. "I could've never seen it coming, to think that I would have a chance to meet the Savior of Midgard and Slayer of Grima."

"Midgard?"

"Earth is a common name given to a world that houses humans, some prefer to give these infinite Earths numbers, others like the Dragon Clans find it more fitting to give them more refine names. The Divine Dragon Naga herself deemed that the world that birthed you be called Midgard, like how the Divine Dragons of this world dubbed it Asgard." Hydra explained. "And on the topic of the Fell Dragon. I owe you a great debt, as does all of Asgard."

"In what regard?" Robin questioned.

"Prior to the Old War, I prophesied the coming of the Wings of Despair, my visions assured me that Grima would grow to be the most powerful Dark God in the entire history of Divinity itself and that he would bring about a true Apocalypse upon not just Midgard but many more human worlds, Asgard included." Hydra revealed but that did not surprised Robin in the slightest. "But you knew that already."

"None know his obsessive hatred for humanity more than I." Robin affirmed.

"Indeed, however, in my visions it would appear I miscalculated because I thought for sure that Grima would've prevailed no matter what you and the noble Shepherds did and one way or another humanity would meet its end with no other god able to stop him."

"Then you saw the wrong timeline." Robin concluded.

"Yes, what a fickle period that was for me." Hydra bemused. "Princess Lucina and other children from the Future Past performed an incomplete version of the Awakening Ritual to finally challenge Grima but instead opened a rift in Time through the Outrealm Gate to travel to the Past in the hopes to prevent Grima's revival. The resulting Paradox created approximately 14,980,766 new timelines where the Shepherds of the Past and Future fought together to defeat the monster, unfortunately, only 666 timelines resulted in Grima's defeat while the rest ended once again with Grima victorious. I never dared hope that my Asgard was among the lucky few."

"You're welcome." Robin replied nonchalantly. "Though I must say, for someone who wants to give his toys away, you sure prefer to make it hard for those who seek you out."

"Oh? So you've noticed?" Hydra said amused.

"Those Phantoms of yours fight with the ferocious might of the weakest Risen Chiefs of Grima's Army of the dead and the wisdom of warriors as cunning as Chrom. After two thousand years of fools struggling to reach you and make the weapons of this place theirs, now all the sudden three Princes come and succeed against such powerful soldiers. It is a fairytale one would make up for aspiring children to become knights in shining armor than a fact." Robin accused and he speaks up what he has already deduced. "Sure, Xander lost two of his finest warriors when he came here but only two, according to Leo and when that annoying brat came in, they came back also victorious and the worst case scenario was that all their men were critically injured but nothing else and Ryoma was even luckier if the rumors hold truth and now the Hoshidans came back here just as I arrive and not one of the Phantoms we encountered fought with their full might. Not even close. You let us win! Just like you did for Xander and Leo."

"Impressive observation." Hydra actually smirked at the truth being discovered. "What a tragedy that only you figured it out when the Royals could not, however it is no surprise given who I am speaking with."

"I won't ask why as it's none of my concern. This sort of deception is one I would expect of a dragon." Robin said knowing the moment he laid eyes on Hydra of what he really is.

'So he realized my true nature as well but not Lilith's. Well she is an Astral Dragon and those of her species are always so hard to uncover so that is no surprise.' Hydra thought.

"Most impressive indeed. I would expect nothing less of one such as yourself. As usual, Naga choses her champions wisely." Hydra praised.

"Naga has nothing to do with this." Robin replied with half a scoff.

"Your apprehension towards your past is understandable, I can only imagine what it felt to overcome such evil." Hydra noted.

"Knowing isn't the same as experiencing it." Robin replied with a sharp tongue, clearly not wanting to talk about it but knows deep down that the subject must be addressed.

"I cannot help you without disclosing what came before, young one." Hydra insisted. "Your despair. Your self-hatred. You cannot keep them buried for long, otherwise they will ultimately consume you."

"I'VE ALREADY BEEN CONSUMED!" Robin snapped in outraged, finally letting out the bitterness and wrath he kept bottled up inside and as he did so, all the veins in his face start to glow in a dark purple color, his eyes become black and his body starts to tremble so uncontrollably that he almost falls to his knees but he is able to regain his focus and reversing his body to normal. "I… I never asked for this. We both know that I'm not suppose to be here."

"You wish for death, again?" Hydra surmised while noting that he is still in so much pain and aids him by placing his hand on his shoulder, helping to mend his pain. While he was at it he took the time to examine his body.

'I see now, an amount of Grima's magic power was absorbed into his soul which enabled this resurrection but his new body is not as strong as the previous one and can barely contain this much Dark Aether due to his still damaged soul. Humans are extremely dependent on the soul to properly wield their magic, without it, the body will succumb to Corruption and eventually death but that's not the case with him.' Hydra surmised. 'But this still doesn't make any sense, a disembodied human soul shouldn't be capable of bringing itself back from the dead, especially when the consciousness has resigned itself to enter the Beyond. Out of all the things in the universe that can be brushed off as an accident, bringing oneself back to life could never be one of them. The Afterlife would never allow such a thing to ever happen. Someone brought him back and it was without his consent. And he clearly has no idea who.'

"Out of all the things that make up your being, your Soul is the most determine to live again, even acting independently against your will, forcing your new body to evolve rapidly until it is strong enough for you to once again house the power of Grima." Hydra said. "But because of the internal disagreement the process is also tearing you apart just as quickly as it rebuilds itself."

"Again I am damned to a fate worse than Death." Robin growled bitterly, though the pain has passed, he knows it will return.

"You continue to impress. To be able to hide this kind of excruciating pain daily from those around you through sheer willpower alone. Pain that comes from the soul is ten times worse than anything that can be done to the flesh." Hydra commented.

"It's not a daily condition. Not anymore. Over the months I've been able to endure this unorthodox trauma and go about my days with some sort of peace of mind but even though they don't happen frequently, doesn't mean I'm content." Robin explained.

"Clearly, and if you would just accept the fact that you live again, this pain would've ended all the sooner and your rebirth completed." Hydra lectured.

"To live again would mean accepting him back into my life." Robin came close to yelling but restraint himself this time. "I didn't ask to be given another chance to live again, ending Grima's reign to save my world was my most important desire at the time but it wasn't my only one."

"If death is what you truly desired you would've killed yourself the moment you realized you survived, or at the very least not put as much effort as you did to avoid Camilla's assassins." Hydra pointed out, making Robin cringe at the mention of the eldest dark princess and her obsessive attitude with Corrin. "I am an observer, not a judge. I may not have the same experience as you but I know enough to give you my empathy. I know why you don't want to go back to Midgard, to your friends, your family. To your little girl. You're afraid. the greatest Fear of all has taken you. The Fear of Living."

Hydra's words really struck Robin to his very core but instead of feeling more hostile, he instead feels a sense of calmness in his heart spurring.

"I am not… I'm not Morgan's father, the Robin of that timeline is gone. There is only me, the Fellblood Vessel." Robin wallowed in sorrow. "I can still see them, my world, reduced into a gigantic cemetery, lands burned and raised asunder without sense nor purpose, thousands upon thousands of people hunted down like animals and torn to pieces, men, women and child alike denied even a shred of mercy and killed unjustly. All of it committed under my watchful eyes, forced to see it all as my body was no longer my own. For over a decade, day by day, I can never forget. I'm afraid of the night! That's why I always force myself to stay awake."

"Chrom and Naga already told you, Grima's sins are not yours to bear. And you more than made up for it, giving those children a chance to live the life that all humans who serve the Light deserve." Hydra assured him with compassion. "What you desire is new purpose, a new reason for living, something worth fighting for, someone worth dying for but most of all, someone worth living for, and a brand new place to call home."

"I cannot think of such things while his accursed power lingers inside me." Robin argued. "I have nothing against the Dark Arts, it's been my hidden passion for years but the Aether Grima commanded is the one Darkness I cannot accept, nor will I accept it as my one chance to live. I must be rid of this Dark Aether, I don't care if my life expires because of it."

"Any human can force the darkness out of their bodies through sheer willpower and enough Anima Magic but fewer humans can swear off the temptation. The desire to truly reject the power and more so the chance to wield it for true justice are the true challenges. Concerning the former, it is a challenge you will certainly fail but never with the latter. You know better than I that Grima could've been a force for good, he was meant to walk the path of the angels but fell to corruption, a malicious hatred not truly his own. His inner light and his redemption live on in you." Hydra said, wanting to reassure him that what is growing inside him is not really evil. Not anymore. "But if you are not convinced, then at the very least I will ensure you keep yourself away from the path of self-destruction, again. And you will find a new hope with this."

Hydra came to a decision as he conjures what at first glance looks like a portal of sorts but is really a projection, showing Robin a very impressive staff. "This is the Bifröst, the most powerful Healing Staff in Asgard. A counterpart to Midgard's Goddess Staff but far stronger, additionally bearing the ability to strip one of their magic powers. It is the only thing I can think of that can perfect your new body but in doing so, it will purge you of all darkness that is not originally human."

"Really?" Robin asked, his eyes lighting with hope of this revelation.

"Indeed. And you will find it in Mount Garou, below the village of the Wolfskins. Once you set foot there, you should be able to sense it's power and I need not tell you that you will have to fight once you enter that place." Hydra warned.

"Taguel lifeforms will not pose a problem to me, though I would prefer to avoid fighting all together." Robin said.

"That, I'm afraid will be unavoidable. This world forever lies ever close to the precipice of annihilation and luckily, you are no stranger to War." Hydra said.

"Doesn't mean I enjoy it." Robin countered.

"And it's because you feel no pride in your achievements, your golden status as someone who just might be the greatest battle commander in human history that I believe that you will continue to fight on, light the fire that burns the brightest in keeping hope alive, that one way or another, you will choose to find it in you to carry on and built for yourself a shining future." Hydra declared.

"I'm not one to stand idly by and have people sing praises to me." Robin rudely commented.

"Yes, you never could stand to be in a large crowd, hence why you prefer to hide under a hood. Odd how you stop wearing your cloak, though." Hydra mused.

"That's not important. Thank you for sparing me your time and more so your aid, great Sage." Robin said with a respectful bow. "It's been so long since I've felt a sense of relief for myself."

"Think nothing of it, however, before you leave I have requests of my own." Hydra said.

"What would you have me do?" Robin replied with intrigue.

"As you know, Nohr and Hoshido are locked in a bitter stalemate and it's only a matter of time before they both go to war once again, rather you choose to participate in the senseless violence for whatever reason or make the wise choice and leave them be to their shared damnation is entirely up to you but before you make your choice, I ask that when you come face to face with Royals of both nations on the Day of Reckoning, you will present this to the one who needs it." Hydra requested as he presents to Robin a very valuable stone.

"A Dragonstone!" Robin gasped, recognizing the relic in question and the power it wields all too well. "You're saying that one of the Royals has the potential to turn into a dragon?"

"Yes, and who that is should be obvious and once that is done you are free to do as you choose." Hydra said, leaving Robin in deep contemplation.

"Anything else?" The White Mage asked.

"Yes, I would also like you to take that sword with you." Hydra said turning to Yato that is still in Robin's hand. "It is my masterpiece of destruction, Caelum but many in Horus have taken to call it Yato."

"This is it? But why me, I do not desire ultimate power, It's a cancer." Robin muttered.

"Indeed. However, it is often that those who desire power are the ones who don't deserve it and those who don't want power are the ones who deserve it the most, such is the case with you." Hydra countered. "And even if I wanted to, I cannot separate the blade from you. During the Precursor War, Caelum's power had increased beyond the limits I placed on it and developed a will of its own, in some sense, enough that it will only allow its power to be used by those it deems worthy and not those who seek it. I had nothing to do with Caelum coming to you when you chose to protect the Hoshidans, it did so on its own. It awoke by itself for the first time in centuries, felt your presence the moment you set foot on this island and quickly grew enamored with you and deemed you it's chosen master." Hydra revealed. "Kind of like that Sorceress who stalked you."

"Don't say it like that." Robin muttered with huge embarrassment bursting into his face but also a hint of sadness at the mention of Tharja.

"She's yours now, do with her what you will and if you don't want it, you can give it to your daughter if you do decide to return to her as an apology gift for leaving her. I imagine that these two will get along greatly as well." Hydra said. "Just remember to deliver the Dragonstone."

"I will. I am in your debt after all." Robin complied as he places both Yato and the Dragonstone inside Morgenstern. "If I find a way home, I may come visit to give a proper farewell."

"I wouldn't recommend it, I'm not one for goodbyes, much less being formal about it." Hydra replied with a half chuckle.

"Same…" Robin sighed with half amusement as he takes his leave. "Same…"

"One final thing." Hydra said.

"What is it?" Robin asked, stopping to listen.

"Do not tell anyone from Nohr that you found Azura, nor bother to bring her back to her mother. The changes to her life are too significant and rather she returns to Nohr or stays with Hoshido is entirely her choice to make." Hydra instructed. "Her Destiny is all her own now."

"But is that really a good thing?" Robin questioned, harboring doubts on this request but ultimately complies and with no more words to speak up, the doors to Hydra's sanctum open, Robin gazes at the fully recovered Hoshidans, patiently waiting for their turn to meet the Sage, and while they aren't too happy to see him, the fact that Robin came back empty handed and without Yato is a breath of fresh air to the more stuck-up among them.

"Well, as standoffish and unpleasant as your company was, I must say that fighting alongside you all was an eventful experience, and hopefully, if we do cross paths again it will be more as actual allies." Robin said politely and leaves the Sanctuary.

"Until we meet again, then." Azura replied, almost sounding like she's looking forward to it.

"What a weirdo." Hinata noted.

"What kind of Nohrian comes here seeking knowledge and not power?" Subaki wondered.

"That you would ask that despite the answer being so obvious proves your fallibility." Hydra said as he steps forward to face the Hoshidans again and give them what they want, well to one of them actually.

"Wait, what?" The Pegasus Knight uttered, caught off by the Sage's sudden insult.

---

After the misadventure in Notre Sagesse, Robin returns to Nohr flying at top speed and is now back in the Northern Fortress. It's sure been a couple of months since he was last here, and despite the gloomy nature of this place and Nohr as a whole, he is happy to be back, having been a fine settlement for him to find comfort and level of peace and the new friends he made are a nice addition, those number of friends are a handful, while that one other resident, Jakob is like a repulsive version of the Cold Lieutenant of the Exalt. Sure, Frederick was difficult to work with but his acts of mistrust were the result of his unshakable loyalty to Chrom's family, and loyalty breeds forgivable paranoia and the two eventually became friends, Jakob, however, comes off as too petty and obsessive that it's so difficult to be around him and the reason why he didn't come back sooner was because a whole month away from the butler proved insufficient and Robin wanted more time away, and now that he's back? He still wants more time away from the disrespectful and paranoid man who constantly butts heads with the former Tactician for the attention of the young Princess who lives here.

On the subject of Corrin, Robin does feel at ease with the young woman and in many ways is glad that he met her. He doesn't see going from a War Hero to a ''somewhat competent butler'', as Jakob put it, as much of a downgrade as this may seem, he never once cared about the popularity he got as one of Chrom's Shepherds and Supreme Commander of Ylisse's Army, in fact it's a breath of fresh air that no one knows who he is. He hates lying to Corrin about his amnesia but what choice did he really have, in spite of the fact that Nohr and practically everywhere else in Horus are magic ruled societies, people still believed in logical answers and facts to accept something as truth and as open minded as Corrin seemed, he could hardly fathom that she would believe his tale right off the bat, and he doesn't know where to even begin with her overbearing family. For the most parts, he hit it off well with Corrin's brothers, Leo respects his swordplay and ''entertaining'' keen eye for tactics, same with Xander who trusts him as a guard-watch for the fort alongside Gunter, and he even forgave him for setting his hair ablaze. It was easy enough to get on Elise's good side, and while Camilla seems apprehensive, she stopped being more open about it after his first month here. Though despite visiting the Capital of Nohr many times, he seldom laid eyes on Queen Arete and he only knows about King Garon through rumors and tales of his children.

So many complications going on but he be lying if he said he wasn't happy to see her again and hopes to one day tell her the truth of who he is as he owes her so much before he leaves.

Speaking of her, Robin contemplates on what to do with the Dragonstone Hydra gave him as his thoughts focus on Corrin. From the moment he laid eyes on her, he knew she was extremely special, while definitely human, pointy ears notwithstanding, Robin knows there is more to her than she herself and probably her family realize. He can't put his finger on it but perhaps, could she be the one with the power to become a Dragon, the Nohrian Royal Family are the descendants of a Divine Dragon, via magical blood transfer to the first King of Nohr so maybe Corrin's dragon blood is uniquely high enough to access the true power of her godly ancestor but Corrin certainly doesn't strike him as someone with talent for dark magic despite her passionate devotion to the Dusk Dragon that is almost identical to Libra's devotion to Naga. He needs to think on it some more before doing anything about it.

Robin summons Morgenstern to pull out the legendary sword revered by all of Horus, something that really has him puzzled on what to do about it as he really doesn't want this sword in his life. He's seen enough of holier than that weapons to last him one lifetime and he definitely wants none of it. Still, he can't deny that if War does break out with Hoshido that things will go really south for everyone, if Hoshido does manage to hold off against Nohr's Army of Grimm, the royals will be forced to be more active in the frontline and despite training all her life for the Twilight War, Robin is not sure that Corrin should participate. She is a pure soul yet unspoiled by the ugliness of the world, he can't bear to see her fall to corruption and hatred like he did so long ago but maybe if she had a powerful weapon, she could hold her own in the onslaught but as Hydra said, Caelum has bound itself to him and the tremendous power within that rivals and perhaps surpasses the Exalted Falchion, Ragnell and Alondite and will only respond to his will as with a thought, the sword transforms into the icy form it briefly took when he defeated the Dark Knight Phantom.

'It's a longshot but maybe I can forge a connection with Corrin that will allow me to share the sword with her and eventually transfer all custody to her.' Robin deduced as he does possess a spell that he's never had the chance to use before and perhaps now is a good time as any to use it as he REALLY wants to get rid of this sword. But should he give her the sword? After all, if the legends surrounding this blade are true than Corrin's life may change for the absolute worse. Even still, he can't help but go through with this as he can't fall prey to the Chains of Fate. Not again.

Before he could step inside the fortress, Robin sees Corrin coming out from the large front doors and heading towards him, of which he initially thought to greet him personally but this is soon dashed away when he notices how fast she is running towards him with a freaked out look in her face, worrying him greatly.

"ROBIN RUN! RUN!" The White Princess cried out to him, signaling that he is in some kind of danger.

"What-" Robin barely muttered before he does senses the danger she's referring to and without looking up he leaps out of the way to dodge an attack from above as the large wyvern of Camilla, with the Princess in question came falling down hard where he previously stood.

"… the hell!" Robin muttered in complete shock by what just happened.

"So… you actually had the nerve to return. You disgusting piece of garbage." Camilla said with ''uncharacteristic'' venom in her voice and while she has a smile on her face, it is one of pure malice but surprisingly not one he is familiar with, and he has seen a lot of hate filled glares in his life, the ones that haunt him to this day are among the first he ever received…

"But it's good that you did come back." The harshness of Camilla forced him out of his short trance. "Because now I can personally KILL-ARGH!" Camilla is then attacked by none other than Corrin who kicks her right in the face, forcing her off Escanor.

"Huh…" Robin uttered, unable to process everything going on.

"Don't just stand there! RUN!" Corrin cried again in desperation, grabbing Robin to lift him up on her shoulders and she begins to run in his stead, growing more clueless by the second.

"Dammit! CORRIN GET BACK HERE! HE HAS TO PAY!" Camilla howled, her façade completely gone as she goes chasing after them and is able to keep up with her usually faster younger sister.

"How are you able to run so well while wearing heels of all things?!" Corrin cried.

"Give me that pig, Corrin! This is for your own good!" Camilla demanded.

"NNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Corrin cried louder in defiance that her screaming hurt Robin's, Camilla's and Escanor's ears.

"Just what is going on…?" Robin mumbled in absolute confusion.

Hours later until nightfall, Robin is back in his old room in the fortress, under house arrest of all things, lying down on the door to said room with a baffled expression.

"They think I raped you?!" Robin uttered, trying to clarify the situation he's been going through all day, that only now did Corrin, who is outside of the room, also sitting behind the door, the white pair back to back with her in the hall, only now properly clarified as no one was making sense under all the promises of a fitting punishment. "Is that what Elise meant about naming a kid Kana?"

"Yes, and again, I am so sorry, you were right, going to celebrate Halloween in Windmire was a stupid idea, everyone completely overreacted." Corrin practically sobbed as she apologizes. She still has nightmares from the horror she went through after waking up naked and only a bed sheet to cover herself.

"Overreacted is not a strong enough tone to sugarcoat my situation." Robin protested, understandably upset by how bad this whole thing is. "I mean, I get why they're like this. You're like a delicate flower to them, I mean, Elise is something special but at least she's not stuck in a fortress doing whatnot so I can't really fault them for being so volatile but for Ike's sake, you'd think that after months of me being gone they've concluded that perhaps you're just as much to blame, or better yet themselves for not realizing why you wanting to leave and do something stupid makes total sense."

"I know, right? They're crazy, and I think mother is the only one who's thinking logically about this, hence why she decreed you be under house arrest instead of being executed, and when you really think about it, this is more of a way to protect you from everyone else." Corrin suggested.

"I figured that out a lot sooner, after all not even for you would Jakob want to set foot in my room and risk falling ill upon catching my scent." Robin mused.

"See! Now you're getting it." Corrin cheered half-heartedly in a desperate attempt to lighten the mood but it falls short. "So… how was the trip?"

"I don't want to talk about it right now." He shrugged, not in the mood to tell any stories.

"Okay…" Corrin uttered in disappointment. An awkward silence fills the room and hall, a monsoon of emotions being locked away inside the very core of their hearts, more so Corrin since she's the only one of the two who actually remembers what really went down on Halloween but can't bring herself to say to him, the guilt inside keeping her mute over what he's going through but that's only half the reason for her guilt, the worst part is that she wouldn't have undone what'd happened. No matter how short lived it was, she can't bring herself to completely regret it, except that the man she's hopelessly fallen for is taking all the blows.

Desperately, she tries to escape the silence as she turns to her right towards the sword Robin gave her. "This is a very pretty blade. Never seen one made of gold before."

"It's made of a more valuable mineral than gold. Can't explain with certainty but whatever it is, it's practically indestructible and never needs to be sharpened." Robin said, not sure how much to explain on what he knows about Yato's power, it was a spur of the moment because of everything else going on that he brought off the name Yato when he initially wanted to call it by it's true name, Caelum. Hydra didn't seem too enthusiastic about calling it Yato when he explained it to him.

"And you're sure you want to entrust it to me?" She asked.

"Why not? Any blade will do for me, but you. As someone of royalty, you need a sword that'll never let you down. It's no Siegfried but I guarantee that it'll serve you well, if not indefinitely then eventually. Which is more than I can really offer." Robin said.

"Then I'll treasure it always." Corrin smiled, holding on to Yato firmly. She can already feel glee from its touch. "You must've had all kinds of adventures exploring Horus and likely beyond."

"I have, in fact. People speak ill of Almyra but I like it, when you're finally given the chance, you should try and go there. They have much in common with Nohr and attempts for a treaty are under way. It would boaster alliances to have a chance to learn their culture." Robin advised.

"I'd liked that very much. After tensions ease up and you're allowed to stand by me in my inevitable travels that is." Corrin smiled with hopeful glee.

"We'll see." He replied while he pulls the Dragonstone from Morgenstern. "Someday, I'll tell you everything, until there are no more secrets left to tell."

(Fast Forward: The Day after the Battle in Kurosaki)

"Still nothing?" Asked a concern Ryoma as he sees his stepmother exit Corrin's room as he came to check up on her, along with his siblings and Azura.

"Not yet." Mikoto shook her head in bitter sadness as Corrin is still unconscious as a result of the beginning of the Twilight War. "I pour as much magic as I could to heal her but nothing seems to wake her up. I suspect that her coma is the result of her transforming into a dragon for the first time which proved too great for her body and mind and needs time to recover on her own pace."

"But she will recover, right?" Hinoka asked with desperation.

"On that, there is no doubt but how long is completely unpredictable, for me at least." Mikoto said clinging too much on to hope.

"I'd give her two more days." Robin suggested as he arrives before the Royals, standing a fair distance from them.

"Robin, you're finally up." Mikoto said a bit surprised to see him as when she went to check up on Corrin yesterday, she found Robin lying on the floor just as out cold as Corrin and just as unresponsive and had him escorted into a different room to rest. If he had only just woken up now than he's been out for at least twenty hours.

"Overuse of my magic in the battles yesterday have really worn me out but my wounds are unimportant." Robin shrugged any concerns they might possibly have for him. "Regarding her there should be no worries so long as she remains undisturbed. I don't know a whole lot about her situation and tremendous power but I can venture a good guess when it comes to matters of magic."

"You know more than that." Ryoma said in a way that sounded accusatory but definitely wants answers.

"You must clarify if I am to answer." Robin replied to what he's referring to.

"Right before the fight truly began and Corrin transformed, you were just as shocked as the rest of us but what you said made it clear that you knew a Dragon would pass judgement on the War, didn't you?" Ryoma said as he heard Robin clearly when he called Corrin a ''Manakete'' and mentioned the Sage, who he can only assume is the Rainbow Sage. "And then there's this."

The High Prince then presents Yato that he's been holding on to ever since the battle, the sight of it still catches him and his family off guard, especially his siblings after seeing the blade in action not that long ago when they first met Robin and seeing it in Corrin's possession was baffling to say the least, as though it wasn't enough that Robin and Corrin knew each other all along.

"With Corrin finally back and so much to say and do, the chance to ask regarding this sword, you and the Rainbow Sage couldn't come any sooner. And we all know that Corrin's never been to Notre Sagesse." Ryoma said. "With the way things are now, this would be a good chance to finally get some answers, don't you agree."

"It is as you see it." Robin shrugged again. "The sword many in Horus revere as a blade of legends is right there in your possession and under my watch."

"But how? Why do you have the Sword of Salvation?" Takumi questioned, largely troubled by this for reasons Robin partially understands, though said reasons could be obsolete since Robin now has no choice but to stand with them given that Nohr will be coming after him, however he can also understand why that won't be seen by many as a good enough reason to trust him, and having ties with Yato may not improve things for him especially since he doesn't want it, just as much as he wants no part of this war but he can't bring himself to leave Corrin behind, just as he can't use the Bifröst now, loathe as he is to admit it, Grima's strength may prove essential against King Garon, he may be every bit the behemoth Walhart was, and he is not looking forward to go through that again, the best way to deal with a great dragon is with another, otherwise whole continents will pay the prize. Scratch that, that's a horrible strategy but he will need to use Grima one last time to protect Corrin.

"That Sage can be a very vague individual as you should know yourselves, even though I did not desire any of the Sacred Treasures I still partook and pass the Trial and he gave me the blade as my reward." Robin lied, not wanting to take his chances with the fact that the blade itself chose him. "However the sword is not meant for me."

"So Corrin then? Is that why she wields it? But she didn't even pass the trial." Ryoma asked.

"As i said, he was very vague in his instructions but I suspect it's because as a true child of the Dragon Gods, Corrin is more than capable of harnessing the sword's power as well but it won't come to her as easy as the two of you should know how complicated these weapons can be. Either way, I consider myself fortunate since I want nothing to do with them." Robin flat out confessed.

"You… don't want the legendary… what bullshit are you playing at here, Robin!" Takumi demanded over this lunacy. "The Sword's power resonated with you, didn't it?"

"I don't play games, Takumi! I have enough dirt on my hands as it is, especially since Xander and the rest of Nohr's hierarch want me dead and Corrin in chains, the last thing I need is a relic of your past haunting me." Robin spoke up louder, finally fed off with Takumi's outburst and it actually startled him to hear him talk back to him. "Besides, that ice trick was my own magic, not the blade." He lied again.

"And leaving such a dangerous relic in the hands of my sister is better?" Ryoma questioned.

"She has all of you and your whole army to back her, I'm on my own." Robin shrugged, with his frustrations turning into bitterness. "I don't expect any of you to understand."

"Yet in spite of that you're still here, wanting to help Corrin." Azura pointed out.

"I owe a debt to her is all. She saved my life when the other royals would've preferred to leave me to die on those plains where she found me within an inch of my life most likely about to die. As if nursing me back to health wasn't enough, she let me stay in her personal fortress regardless of the potential risks of me being a danger. That's just how she is but as safe as she is now, the dangers might be greater than any of us could ever prepare for when she wakes up." Robin explained.

"Well, you're not wrong there." Hinoka said largely worried for when a swarm of Grimm might come forcing their way inside the Capital.

"I know you people don't fully trust me yet. I get it, and you may never will, that honestly doesn't bother me but you know what awaits me when I leave your borders, that's not your problem. But I can protect her in your stead when you can't be by her side. Like it or not, she'll want to be a part of this war, be it for revenge or closure, she has the heart of a warrior, she will want to fight." Robin is practically pleading with them. "Besides, isn't it better for Yato being in her possession instead of the actual outsider?"

He leaves the Royals in a brief contemplation on how to respond but thankfully it's a short one.

"Corrin's faith in you is clearly unshakable and for her sake, having someone who can give her a sense of familiarity will help ease her nerves when she awakens." Mikoto suggested.

"I got no objections. Not yet." Hinoka added.

"M-Me nei… ther. He's actually p-pretty n-nice." Sakura nervously complied, all the while Takumi remained silent, practically abstaining his vote.

"Very well, as I said before, we owe you a great deal for all the aid you gave us, no matter your reason, the least we can do is guarantee your safety." Ryoma concluded. "Plus, your power may serve us well."

"I'm glad we have an understanding of sorts." Robin said while folding his arms, at the very least Corrin comes first. "Whatever you want, I'll try to fulfill it to the best of my abilities."

"I'm counting on it." Ryoma nodded in affirmation before turning to Mikoto. "Forgive me mother, I know you want nothing more than to remain by Corrin's side, we all do but Yukimura needs your help at the moment, the Capital remains in disaster."

"I know, I'm well prepared for my duties." Mikoto nodded. "Azura, you mind staying watching over Corrin until I return."

"Of course." Azura nodded as the Royals leave as there so much that needs to be done to linger with Corrin, to their dismay, except Takumi at the moment, leaving the Songstress with Robin as they both enter Corrin's room and see that she remains comatose.

"You sure she won't stay like this for long?" Azura asked him.

"I'm sure. Corrin's more powerful than any of us realize, this is just the result of her not yet getting the hang of her potential." Robin assured her.

"You know a lot more than you're letting on." Azura said suspiciously but cleverly doesn't show it, not really wanting to say anything that'll start an argument, in spite of the answers she seeks.

"There's a lot I know and a lot more that eludes me. And no, the Sage didn't reveal to me my past, only that I'll find what I desire in Mount Garou." Robin largely lied this time.

"Even though he seemed to know you well enough. His Phantom called you Robin of Titan. That's not a word familiar to Hoshido." Azura said.

"Nor anywhere in Horus but that's irrelevant right now. I've waited three years for my revelation, I can wait a little longer." Robin said.

(Present Time: Back at the Sevenfold Sanctuary)

After the disastrous events that took place in Mount Garou, Corrin, Robin, Selena, Odin and Laslow return to the Sanctuary with the Bifröst for Arete, Hydra already waiting for them, quickly placing his hand on her shoulder upon noticing the bitter look on her face.

"Their deaths are not on you, dear child." Hydra said solemnly to her.

"I wish that were true." Corrin uttered with bitter regret.

"That you would be willing to bear the burden of so much sorrow proves your innocence. One of the architects is gone. Let that be enough, for now." Hydra insisted.

"That means nothing if she can't be saved." Corrin shrugged as he presents to him the legendary staff.

"The Bifröst. At last." Hydra gazed at the staff's radiance before claiming it. "Your mother from Nohr's life is assured now, child." He turns to Arete who remains in her stasis, as he extends the powerful staff to her, it glows with a light that starts off white before it shines with all the colors of a rainbow that spread like tendrils from the Bifröst to Arete, penetrating the Chrono Stasis, covering the Shadow Queen in an aura of the same light as the magic begins to fuel her body and truly restore her to life. After almost a minute of anxious anticipation from those watching, Hydra ceases using the staff's power.

"It's done." He said with confidence, and the second he said those words, Corrin immediately rush towards Arete to embrace her as soon as she is released from the Chrono Stasis. The Princess sheds tears of joy but doesn't cry out as loud as Robin thought, especially as she hears Arete's steady heartbeat and she opens her eyes.

"I'm sorry… I'm so, so sorry." Corrin sobbed.

"Corrin…" Arete uttered not knowing what to say after experiencing her own death and being locked in a state between being alive and dead. She felt nothing but at the same time there was an aching sensation that she couldn't react and she could still hear everything going on around her and she knew that Corrin went to find the instrument of her salvation. Even without that knowledge, she would return the embrace.

"Oh, prays the Gods for at least this part turning out alright." Laslow sighed in relief, as the other three as they see Corrin happily reunite with her stepmother.

"Is it selfish to feel that this might be worth it." Selena questioned

"I don't know. That's never been an easy question to answer. What is really worth doing in war when innocence are involved?" Robin said somberly.

"That is a question that should always go unanswered." Hydra replied. "There will always be risks to every life one seeks to save, they just aren't always noticeable."

"Truer words, great one." Odin said just as somber as Robin and then turns to see that Elise and his other comrades are still trapped in time. "Hey, you mind letting everyone free now. Our beloved queen is alright."

"Of course." Hydra complied as he releases the other Nohrians.

"MOTHER!" Elise cried out in anguish as she rushes to her stepmother and former sister, getting in the embrace where she is more than welcomed.

"GODS! FINALLY! That was a terrible experience I don't ever want to go through." Charlotte screamed, full of rage and fear over being put in such as stasis, something all her comrades share.

"LASLOW! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Peri screamed even louder and enraged as she goes to attacked her startled partner in retribution for leaving her frozen in time, however Hydra saves Laslow by casting a spell that forces the berserk dame to fall to the floor, fast asleep, already snoring.

"Her medication will wear off soon, you best give her more when she awakens." He said to the Retainer.

"Yes, thank you." Laslow muttered while dropping a sweat at the close call he just had.

"I have done all I could for you, young ones, now it's time to go." Hydra said as two portals open up behind him, one that shows the image of Castle Krakenburg and the other a snowy region that must be Niflheim for Robin and Corrin to take. Once that is done, the Rainbow Sage departs from the room. "This is the last time I want to partake in the affairs of Nohr and Hoshido."

"Hydra. Hold on a minute." Corrin pleaded as she releases herself from Arete and Elise and walks to Hydra as they face each other on what may probably be the last time. "Thank you. I… this means more to me than you know."

"But I do know, sweet child. And I did say that I would help you when you are in dire need of it." Hydra smiled compassionately. "Though, I must confess that I'm a little disappointed that you didn't call for me sooner, given all your short comings."

"Would you be a little more disappointed if I said I forgot about your offer?" Corrin asked innocently, as if she was concern about being scolded by her dad.

"A little." Hydra mused uncharacteristically with humor. He then gives her back the Bifröst. "You may need it again but use it wisely and whatever happens, do not allow yourself to fall to its Lust. Human Hearts are easily swayed."

"I know." Corrin replied as she accepts the staff. "I swear in the names of the Precursors that I'll bring it back to you when this all finally ends. And this time it'll be held where no one will ever use it again."

"I know you will. Farewell for now, Corrin." He said as he again leaves and this time with no more words left to say and Corrin turns to face the Nohrians as Robin returns to her side.

"Quite the late birthday present you've given me." Arete was the first to speak with light humor before there was ice to break.

"Not like you would allow there to be time to celebrate with all this going on. But one should always make time for presents, like you once said." Corrin replied as Arete's birthday was last week and no one really celebrated it because all focus was on the Twilight War. "Everyone, I…"

"Corrin, enough. You don't have to waste your breath on trying to explain yourself when you need not explain what's already clear." Arete raised her hand to her but it was said without a hint of a lecture, much less any level of antipathy, only her typical compassion. "I already know why and I don't blame you."

"Not even a tiny bit?" Corrin muttered.

"Not even a tiny bit." She affirmed while holding on to Elise tightly who can't bring herself to look at Corrin in the eye. "This outcome was predictable from the start, as I'm sure Xander at one point expressed in his own way."

"You know how he is better than anyone." Corrin said with a sense of bliss to be given the chance to speak to her like this again, no matter how short lived this is.

"I don't blame you for walking this path, after all, how could you even consider to stand with us still after learning the truth? It would've been something if you had but honestly it would've been preferable for both sides if you'd stayed out of the fighting altogether." Arete said, again opening up to Corrin that the possibility that Robin's previous choice for her might've been for the best. "Not that it matters now. It's far too late to undo all that's been done. It was all inevitable, I suppose."

"Maybe." Corrin sighed, briefly looking away from her. "So what happens now?"

"Now?" Arete sighed herself as she stares at Elise, then the portal Hydra left clearly for them and the Retainers. "It's time to go back home and help to evacuate the Capital for the off chance that Garon and the others couldn't stop the Hoshidans in Niflheim."

'GARON'S IN-' It took what remained of her willpower for Corrin not to scream from the shock upon hearing this new information, as well as notice the fact that Arete's finally giving up on bringing her back.

"Already calling it quits?" She asked.

"Nonsense, I'm just being overly cautious is all." Arete brushed off. "Fair warning though, you reunite with your other family, you may not like what you find."

"You may be right, your Majesty, but that'll hardly be an obstacle for us." Robin finally spoke up.

"Your funerals." Arete mused. "Let's go everyone, Elise is safe now." She commanded to the Retainers who obey and wordlessly enter the portal back to Nohr, Selena, Odin, Laslow and Peri being the last to enter Though before he went in, Benny spared an ominous glance at Corrin, it was hard to tell if it was a glare or anything condescending, she really couldn't tell before he went in, leaving her hopelessly confused.

"Well, there will be a lot of explaining to do once we get back." Laslow sighed as he picks up his sleeping partner, carrying her on his shoulder. "Even still, our Queen and Princess are alright so if nothing else, we can go back with some sense of accomplishment."

"Naturally, after all, we are supreme warriors of darkness, as such living with regrets and more burdens to carry on our mighty shoulders is inevitable." Odin said doing his best to remain strong after such a horrendous ordeal.

"I hate it when your stupidity makes sense." Selena hissed before turning to Robin. "So what, this is where we part ways, again?"

"Yes and hopefully it will be shorter than the last time." Robin replied. "Our paths remain as such. You do what you must for those you're sworn to protect, while I tend to my wards."

"I wish I could wish you both luck but you will be facing off against our masters and I dare not WISH for them to fall." Odin muttered, as if the conflict he's enduring wasn't apparent enough.

"Then don't wish such a thing, except trust that you'll see Xander, Camilla and Leo again." Robin assured them.

"We're counting on it." Selena snapped sharply before growing soft. "It's good to see you, and actually talk to you again, Uncle."

"Likewise Severa." Robin smiled passionately to the trio as they take their leave until Arete and Elise are the only ones left.

"Mother! One last thing. I need to know." Corrin spoke up quickly before she entered the portal. "Even if it's true that Garon didn't kill Sumeragi, and I have been considering that to be the truth, that still doesn't explain how I was brought into Nohr if none of you are responsible."

"I'm afraid you have it all wrong, Little Princess. No one brought you to Nohr, you came to us all on your own." Arete revealed, which greatly caught the White duo and Elise off guard.

"I don't understand."

"The first time I ever laid eyes on you was in your true Dragon Form, rampaging across Windmire until you forced your way into Krakenburg, craving bloodshed." She explained.

"What…" Corrin uttered, unable to comprehend what she's saying.

"Wait, you're saying that the White Behemoth was Corrin?" Robin asked, thinking he understands.

"The White Behemoth? The monster that rampaged across Nohr thirteen years ago and appeared sometime after… Sumeragi's death…" With that, the pieces of the puzzles were finally gathering together after all this time and the truth finally sinking in. "I… I was… was never your hostage, a prisoner of war, was I?"

"No, you were a convicted criminal for the murder of hundreds of Nohrian citizens in your blind rampage and attempted murder of the Royal Family." Arete revealed, now sadder that instead of parting on a happier note it had to be like this. "Farewell Corrin. Thank you for saving my life. Both of you." With that, the former mother and sister enter the portal and vanish, along with said portal, leaving only the one meant for Corrin and Robin, the two left alone in bitter silence.

"I did transformed for the first time after witnessing my stepfather's murder. Watching him die triggered my dragonic instincts to take over and the sight of the killers dressed as Nohrians…" She began.

"Corrin, don't." Robin pleaded for her not to overthink this revelation.

"I couldn't control myself. I was just a child! Even still, I… Xander said that the White Behemoth was just some freak of nature that Gunter and Elise's Retainer Arthur slew. He never said that he, Elise, Leo, Camilla, father and mother were almost killed by it… by…"

"Corrin, enough!" Robin said louder as he grabs on to her to again set her at ease, like he usually could but it may not cut it this time and to his surprise, Corrin doesn't shed a single tear and just remains quiet.

"I'm tired. So, so very tired." Corrin spoke softly with no emotion, she again feels empty inside.

"I know. Come, it's time to reunite with the others, we've left everyone with our fakes long enough." Robin said as he helps her move to the portal.

"Didn't you hear Arete, Garon's in Niflheim. That's the last place for me to have a vacation." Corrin mused.

"I'll handle him while Lilith takes you to the Astral Plane. I told you before already, I'm getting you through this no matter what." He assured her.

"I know. You and the others might as well remind me every day with how constant you're watching out for me."

"You may not believe it now, nor ever but you're worth it, Cor. You can't convince me to the contrary." Robin smiled with assurance. On that Corrin makes no reply and just changes the subject.

"Can you at least tell me one thing." She asked.

"What is it?"

"What is it you need the Bifröst for, exactly?"

"To cure my body, of course. The pain we talked about way back may be under control but it's still happening, sleeping is difficult because of it. I never complained because I'm used to being in pain. This life, war. It's a part of me. Believe me I hate how much I'm good at this but I always was a necessity for others, nothing more." Robin revealed.

"Then why not come and get it sooner then?"

"Because if I were to use the staff, I'd risk losing all of my dark magic powers. Which personally isn't too much of a hassle for me. I'll miss using the dark arts but this Dark Aether inside me, I loathe it to no end and I want it- I NEED it out of me. But it's because of it that I'm a Demigod, if what Lilith said is to be taken lightly and I made my choice, I'm sticking by you and so I choose to keep it with me a while longer and when I'm no longer needed, I can be normal again. Most importantly, I can rest." Robin sighed with longing in his voice and heart.

"You're an idiot." She mocked him. "There's nothing normal about either of us, and I reckon there never was so spare me your bullshit."

"It's easy to say that when you don't know my whole story." Robin said more amused than insulted by her cold reply.

"Then when the time comes, tell me everything and then I might consent to this mundane nonsense."

"Whatever you say, you're Highness." Robin half-chuckled as they enter the portal to reunite with their friends and pray to the Gods that nothing too deep or too serious happened with her Replica that would make her look really awful if anyone knew it wasn't really her.

Unfortunately for them, their return to Niflheim and the United Army against Nohr is far more than an unpleasant and gruesome showdown with King Garon, as they are greeted with the entire village of the Ice Tribe in flames, and to Robin's eyes, it is the grounds of a one sided massacre.

"Dammit! This is worse than I feared." Robin cursed at the disaster before them.

"Garon did this all on his own? How could he have this much power to best everyone?" Corrin uttered.

"Unfortunately, Elise gave us a prelude to such destruction." Robin has a pretty good idea.

"Ryoma… Azura, everyone. Please be alive." Corrin prayed.

"How intriguing. You're both still alive." The familiar, yet distorted voice of the King of Nohr can be heard coming from the fires that are burning the Ice Tribe and as they look up in front of them, they gaze upon the tyrant responsible for this as he comes out, but he is no longer as Corrin remembers him.

"Oh gods…" Corrin muttered in horror as right before them is the last thing she expected to face. A dragon many times bigger than her dragonic self, matching the Blight Dragon in size. Unlike Corrin, its appearance is a more faithful traditional Western Dragon with a body completely crimson and it seems to draw in surrounding light. The wings have frayed membranes and dotted with multiple holes in them, and the horns on its heard are ornately spiraled horns. The overall body is skeletal, with a face like a skull with empty eye sockets, and a row of bone-like spines that run the length of his body, giving it the impression that it's some kind of Necrodragon.

"King Garon." Robin said defiantly as they both quickly stand their ground against their long awaited adversary.

'Still alive? Did he manage to defeat our Replicas and killed them? If so the others are in for a relief when they see Corrin again.' Robin thought.

"All this struggle, all this suffering and wasted lives. All for nothing. This war is over!" Garon declared as he roars with the mighty scream of a true dragon that may possibly be heard from across all of Niflheim. Afterwards, he reveals to them that he is carrying a hostage that he is holding in his left hand.

"Azura!" Robin shouted, seeing the Songstress alright but in extreme turmoil by her predicament that seemed to have calmed down once she sees the whiteheads again.

"Corrin! Robin!" She cried out to them.

"Now then…" As Garon began to speak, at the nick of time, three of his children, Xander, Leo and Camilla arrive at the scene. The two sons, riding on Sabyrs almost larger than horses that lack visible spines on their backs, making them comfortable to ride on and not as big and Camilla ridding on a Teryx, a rare sight to see her riding a mount that isn't Escanor. The three Royals surround the White Duo, leaving them more corner than Corrin has ever felt thus far. "How are you going to find a way out this time?"

"That's… a good question. Robin, any new ideas right about now." Corrin pleaded.

"We're gonna need to find Yato." Was his only response.

---

Finally, I honestly never thought I would get this one done. I mean I actually had fun writing this but with a few lazy moments here and there this month, coupled with helping the family with whatever we need to get more comfortable with the current state of the world, plus the huricane yesterday, things got hectic but hopefully the majority of us are still alright. With that out of the way, I have an announcement.

After much consideration, I've decided that I will be making another story to begin working on right now. A prequel to this story, my own take on Awakening to be precise and no, this will not hold me back from finishing Deliverer of Birthright, believe me, this story will be done before this awful year ends, my imagination has been running wild and I couldn't hold myself back from writing it anymore. After all when I decided that I wanted to write Fanfictions, Awakening was first on my list and hopefully all this time making this story will improve myself for this one but bear in mind that I'll spend less time on that one. I already have a name for it: A Reluctant Hero's Awakening. And of course, as I mentioned before, there will be MASSIVE changes to the story, especially Robin's origin, starting with the first chapter. Till next time and as always, leave reviews.