Hello and welcome back. Boy that last chapter was explosive, right? *cricket chirps* Anyway, let's hop right back in as we got some stuff to cover. I will be attempting to play the game while typing this all up however, the plot clearly is veering away from cannon some so, eh? Obviously certain plot points will ensue and so on and so forth. Also, thank you all for continuing to read and be supportive! I really appreciate it.
Song of the Chapter: In the woods Somewhere by Hoizer
Warning: It is graphic as heck, mental shit happens, and overall tense as we finally near the start of the game's story and plot.
Chapter Sixteen: Silence and Blood
"But my peace has always depended on all the ashes in my wake" – Hoizer
[2 Weeks Later- Castle Krakenburg- Camilla]
Numb. Hollow. Bitter. Angry and raw. She walked through the halls, refusing to attend the funeral she had dressed for, unable to buy the stories and explanations, the missing pieces whispering to her that it was all lies. Two weeks ago, early in the morning, the day following Ascalon's mission that her father had forbade her from going on, only two thirds of the entirety of the Wyvern Troops returned, carrying with them the corpses of their dead comrades. Grief plagued all of them, growing worse as the princess frantically checked in on all of them, asking what happened, how, and much more. Yet there was one question no one had a clear answer too, and one body that never turned up.
Desperately holding back tears, Camilla grasped Solomon by the arms, crying and begging to know where her man was, where her sweet Draco Knight had gone too. Unable to give her that, as he didn't know, he simply shook his head and apologized, letting her know that they were able to bring George back, barely as he had been struck down while saving the last people escaping, explaining that the only thing he knew was that the man had gone to find the one that summoned the Faceless. He explained that every able body had searched the area, even outside of it, but no trace of the general had been found. As he spoke of this the indigo dragon was carefully lowered into his pen, weakly moaning and crying in concern and pain, green eyes looking for the same person as she was. Muttering 'no' to herself over and over, Camilla went to the good boy, curling up against him and mourning with him, both sobbing in minutes and giving a strangled cry of despair.
The following days Camilla flew out to the Fulgur Plains, reminding Athena to be safe and ignoring her family's orders and commands to stay home, to not go alone. Her first tries had all come up empty, the princess taking her rage out on any tree or bush nearby, screaming at the world and questioning the gods as to why they would take away Nohr's ray of light. She received no answers, as they could not reach her, could not speak due to the growing silence from the hidden kingdom. On her last search she found the area he had fought in, the bodies of Iago and Hans, the blood on their hands and weapons. Again, the dark part of her screamed in rage, fueling her actions as she used the Dragon Vein to bury them further, hiding their corpses from the world, and sank to her knees at the cliff edge, yelling until her voice quit and her throat was raw. This was the last time she let the world take anything she loved from her, let fate steal her happiness. Determined to be strong for him, she eventually returned to the castle, leading her soldiers well and coaching them through their recovery of this tragic event. All were bitter as King Garon blasted every information channel with the news of the Draco Knights death, claiming he was saddened his land lost such a fine general, and blaming the attack on Hoshidan operatives, accusing them of murdering the man that had sought after peace.
Now, as Camilla raced through her home, realizing she had been missing one important thing from her searches, she dashed into the barracks and went straight through, skidding to a halt in front of the dragon's pen where he sorrowfully rested. Green eyes opened in excitement as she came inside, hefting the flight doors open on her own despite their weight, coming back to him and taking off the restraints that kept him from moving much while healing. She smiled at him brightly, tears streaming down her face as she fed him and apple and pear.
"Georgie, my sweet boy, let's go find or man. I know now the only one that could track him is you. You know him better than any of us. Come on, I'll keep you safe." She told him, earning an excited nod, mounting his bare back as he staggered to stand and clumsily, but determinedly, ran and took flight into the morning sky.
[Hoshido- Hoshidan Siblings]
Fury. Unmatched rage. Nothing could describe how deep Ryoma's anger and disgust was as he stormed through the palace, for once forgetting what it was to be calm and collected. All of Hoshido was mourning, as they should be, as the death of the famous Draco Knight spread like exploding embers as well as who King Garon was pinning the blame on. First the death of Sumeragi plagued them, followed by the kidnapping of Prince Corrin, and now they were being blamed for the death of the man they had been supporting in his crusade for peace. Teeming with irritation and about to unleash itself upon the king without hesitation, the peaceful land rebuked the blatant lies, preparing to storm over and teach Garon a lesson in what humanity was. Their crown prince, hurting worse than everyone else, worse than many could understand, swept through the castle like a hurricane, determined to prove his past lover was not slain by his home. As he neared the doors his mother stood before them, somber but strong in her stance, making him halt his warpath and stand still for a moment.
"Mother, I need to go. Please let me through." He told her, resisting the urge to simply run past her.
Eyes stern but understanding, she replied, "No Ryoma. You are going to get yourself killed. He wouldn't want that, and you know it."
"But that devil is lying! He's slandering our name, his, his memory! That pathetic excuse for a king is ruining all we worked for! How can you tell me to stay? How?!"
"Because I love you and want you to live."
"I LOVED HIM! I LOVED HIM AND LET HIM GO JUST TO PLEASE SOME OLD JERKS THAT CAN'T UNDERSTAND WHAT LOVE IS! I LOVED HIM SO MUCH!" Ryoma bellowed, voice echoing throughout the structure, drawing everyone's attention from nearby. Finally letting himself cry his bitter tears, the proud samurai fell into his mother's arms, sobbing, "Why did I let him go? I could have saved him. I could have kept him safe, kept our hope alive. Mother, why do the gods hate me?"
Mikoto, saddened as she held her heart broken son, recalling when she had first met the young 'Nohrian' man, how much he had looked like her sisters, and how happy he had made her boy. Struggling to tell herself to remain calm and collected, she brushed her hand through Ryoma's hair and vowed to do what she could to keep her children and home safe, unable to live with grief such as this again.
[In the Woods Somewhere- Ascalon]
Pain. Blinding and hot. Freezing and deadly. On and off the Draco Knight was in the world of the living and the dead. Body begging to quit while mind rallied to move, he danced to a new tune, tumbling, crashing, sobbing in agony and fear as he was lost. Energy with no outlet shook him fiercely, rattling his frame and stopping his heart before reanimating it again. The metal that encased him burned at first, now a frozen shell creaking with each movement. Reality was an illusion to the delirious man, a flitting idea, disappearing and dropping him into a black void where his hidden memories lurked.
Frightened as to what was real, he watched as his thoughts spun out of control, distorting time and flashing between a world where he was in pain, and one where he wasn't. Chasing after a woman's voice, he tripped and landed by her vanishing feet, catching only a glimpse of the dark-haired woman, her eyes gold like his but belonging to a dragon. Fangs rose from the soil his hands clutched, threatening to consume him whole, earning a yelp as he backed away, a scared child again. As it leapt towards him, the body vanished into smoke, terrifying him as he descended into shadows again.
Awake, he blinked to see if the world would agree with him, groaning as the sky flashed to one with floating islands, laughter sounding somewhere as a man happily called to him. Heart screaming he knew them, the Draco Knight drunkenly stood, swaying and stumbling with every step, hand clutching a red lance for an unknown reason. Yet as he found the figure, reaching to touch the shoulder, his own burned painfully, seeming to heat the area and spark flames in the ground. Fire sprouted from the wound and ran down his spine racing over and consuming the man, destroying him and the chance to learn the truth. Throat raw and unwilling, the lost child yelled in protest, sobbing as his past slipped away again. He became the screams haunting the woods, as his forgotten history haunted him, dragging him back into the dark depths of his mind. The fires that he coveted so, that fueled him in life, drowned out his word and engulfed him like a pair of suffocating wings wrapped too tightly.
Crawling through alternating mud and flaming ground, Ascalon, the man unsure if his name was even his to have, grunted as his stomach ached and his damaged throat was torn, and voice gone. He clutched to his life, and wished it kept, as he knew he wasn't done yet, hoarsely coughing as the images of the faceless couple ran desperately, the woman carrying the lance and hurt child, while the father clutched a beautiful egg. A feeling of deep sorrow and heartbreak consumed him as he watched on the falling rain his life play out before him, man and woman fleeing their home and speaking in the tongue he knew first, reaching a chasm together and preparing to jump in. Through the mans chest came the blade of a translucent sword, tearing him in half vertically. Dashing to collect the egg, the woman gave that and the lance to the child, to him, before kissing his head and whispering how dear he was to her. As she spoke a veil lifted, revealing her pained and bitter sweet face, beautiful and so much like his own. With a smile so kind it could rival Arete's and Mikoto's, she shoved her precious child into oblivion, turning to fight the unseen foe, her song echoing and burning into his mind, his soul, reminding him why he knew it in the first place.
One last time he fell into the welcoming shadows of his mind, crying at the devastating pain of losing his parent all over again, understanding who he was, and that he needed to escape this dream. Pushing through the pain Ascalon remembered how to breathe again, tearing the thick webs off himself that tried to sink him into a permanent slumber, rushing towards the light that called to him, the world outside. The home he had built for himself sang encouragingly, fueling him and guiding him out of the woods. One last obstacle stood in his way, a chasm of all of his pain and suffering, showing every nightmare he had suffered through and trying to keep him there within their claws. Giggles sounded loudly as metal talons tore off the wings forming behind him, desperate to stop the determined fool. He wasn't afraid any longer, continuing forward and catching fire, tearing the rest of the wings that held him back. With a roaring yell, one full of every emotion he held in himself, he threw his weak, broken body across, hands outstretched towards the waiting world. As he sailed through the exploding bursts of light that were his new memories, he followed his heart and screamed the name of the one that was the center of it all, her violet eyes and smile being the last thing he saw.
[In the Woods Somewhere- Camilla, George]
A guttural scream drew her attention. Raw and full of so much that words couldn't describe it. While the princess had a thought of who it might be, George, energy renewed, bolted onwards regardless of his aching body. That voice, though very different from how it had been in all the time he'd lived, was one he knew as he could sense the pain, the sadness, everything the lost child had lived with. Camilla, encouraged by the dragon's reaction, leaned down close to his back for less drag and told her friend how much she believed in him, as flying was a chore but one he did to find his person. Soon they came upon a clearing in the woods, rain heavily falling down and crashing into the earth, as well as the lone figure on their side.
Camilla leapt off as soon as she could, tripping on and tearing her dark dress, not caring about the mud that soaked into the fine fabrics. Shaking with relief she called to her man, crying in joy as he opened one of his eyes groggily, watching her slide to her knees and scooping him up into her arms. Unable to stop smiling as she was just happy he was still with her, the princess held him close and tried to ignore for just a moment how terrible he looked, again, bitterly blaming all of this on her father. As unwanted ideas popped into her mind, saying her parent was too far gone to be saved and that Nohr would be better without him, a weak and shaking hand brought her back. Burnt fingers softly ran through her wet hair, tucking the stray locks behind her ear affectionately.
Violet eyes opened and gazed down, sadly met with only one golden eye, one that seemed to focus on and off, unaware of everything else in the world. His other eye, while he might be able to see out of it again, was scarred terribly just as his throat had been, possibly never recovering from damage like this. Still though, through all of the pain that was wracking him, he smiled brightly at the sight of her, apparently forgetting how close to death's door he was, or that it mattered. A choked laugh came out of his throat as he shifted his other arm, glancing down at the bracelet that still held on tightly, sputtering out one sentence to her.
"I promised…remember Milla?" Ascalon said weakly, the smile never leaving his lips, as he was too pleased to be with her in real life, not the dark velvety dreams that threatened to suffocate.
Caught between sobbing and laughing, she grinned and nodded, crying, "Yes, I remember Lon. I'll always remember you. Always."
In the heavens above the dawn and dusk dragon breathed easy as the Draco Knight had survived, grateful that one of their faithful had asked them to protect the young man in the first place. The silent dragon noiselessly hissed at them, weakening as one of their strongest servants had yet to wake, instead buried deep into the black soil of the battlefield. Beaten only in this battle, they scurried away to recover, vowing to return and devour all that had forgotten him, cursing the boy and all who loved him, the treacherous Vallite that had escaped only because of the soft hearts of others. Once gone, the pair, seeking to be in balance with each other again as light and dark should be, gave the man one last blessing before resting some. From the tear of dusk, and the breath of dawn, they created an eye, hiding this precious gift as a drop of rain, watching as it fell onto the damaged one Ascalon had, repairing it and improving his sight.
[Safe Haven- One Week Later- Siblings, Ascalon]
Camilla, upon returning to Krakenburg with her wounded man, chose to hide him away, out of fear that her father might try to kill him if he learned he was alive, selfishly protecting him and nursing him back to health on her own. Her secret began to cost her though, driving her guilt deeper down as she watched the rebellion seem to lose its fire without him, everyone believing their light had been snuffed out. Villages, towns, cities all lost vitality as the figure that stood a chance at the darkness was torn from their hearts, false stories of how he died being funneled throughout their everyday lives. Across the border, in the peaceful land of Hoshido, they unknowingly shared their pain with Nohr, weeping and mourning. None knew that hidden in a small quiet room, surrounded by comfort and calm, was the quiet flame, waiting to ignite their hopes once more. That day had not come yet, and the dragon slumbered, crawling back into the land of the living.
One night, as Camilla was sneaking out of her room, she tip-toed to the kitchens, stealing food, drink, and some pastries. It was as she pivoted to head to the hidden passages that she found her siblings. Frozen on the spot, she stared with her mouth open a gap, unsure what to say. Xander stepped forward, bags under his eyes and his features unnaturally soft, as he took some of the things from her and handed them to Leo and Elise.
Resting his hands on her shoulders, Xan told her, "Sis, you've been sneaking out every night and disappearing into the hidden halls. Please…please let us see why. We're family too and can keep a secret. You don't have to do this alone."
Instead of speaking she shamefully nodded, knowing that she had been wrong to hide this from them, and silently walked past the group, leading them through the night and passageways towards the safe room. Opening the door, the siblings found a miniature home, cleaned up and walls re-painted, furniture replaced with newer items. Items belonging to the Draco Knight were set about the space, as well as some of hers, giving a comfy atmosphere to the space. A large plush bed, fit for a king, took up residence in the back of the vast room. Huddled into the soft blankets and pillows was the one they had all hoped to find, snoring softly as his blue hair was splayed across the bed.
Leo, of all of them, shed a few silent tears and briskly walked over, sliding off his slippers and climbing onto the bed, nestling straight into his brother's side, thanking the gods he was alive. While the younger prince sobbed only a little more, before happily sinking into a deep sleep, the youngest princess set down the food and dashed over, staff ready as she went about checking his wounds, biting back a cry as she lifted the bandage over his eye and found the scar. Xan, at ease at last, hugged his dear sister and thanked her over and over, apologizing that he hadn't been bold enough to try looking again.
"How did you find him? Where?" Xan asked quietly, not wanting to disturb the others.
Taking a deep breath and releasing it, she answered in hushed tones, "I took Georgie and we flew back to where he had fought the others, following the river he might have been knocked into. We traced it to a forest and, right when we were about to quit, we heard him."
"He was awake? Gods, what is he made out of?"
"Well, knowing him he'd say scar tissue and sarcasm. Georgie and I found him in a clearing, maybe delirious and close to dying. I wanted to tell you all…truly I did. But father, Xan father hates him. He's thrilled he's dead and if he found him, he would end him. Ascalon is too weak to fight right now; he couldn't defend himself even if he tried. I hid him to keep him safe."
"I understand. Trust me, I do. But now we have bigger problems at hand. Father captured two enemies…one of them we know; Kaze. Rinkah is the second one I believe; Lon might know her. They're in the cells now, and father plans on having Corrin fight them, to prove his strength. He's going to do it in a couple of days, having us be the ones to bring him over after we visit him." Xander explained to her, catching her perplexed expression.
"We could try and set them free? Say they killed the guards and snuck out?"
"Soldiers loyal to Iago are guarding them."
"Oh dear. Well, we both know Cori won't kill them. His heart is kind and caring, not cold enough to kill yet." She told her brother, watching with growing concern as he shook his head.
"Sis, he's not as soft as we thought. Last I spoke with him, he's been planning on challenging father, to gain the truth of how Lon really died. I tried to convince him not to but he's a bit too much like our dragon man; he seeks out the truth and fights anyone that's against peace. Dad has become the epitome of that in his eyes."
"We need to tell him then. Cori will die if we don't. What do we need to do?"
Xander, tired but revitalized some at the new revelations, explained his plan to his sister, how they would sneak Corrin over tomorrow night and bring him here to see that Ascalon was indeed alive as well as explain what their father had planned. If they were to keep the Draco Knight hidden until he was well, they all had to play the parts of mournful puppets, like their father wished. Needless to say, this chore was painful however, as Ascalon had yet to wake again, it was their only hope and shot at keeping him safe. Camilla agreed to this, explaining that she would need Elise to help her get the man back up and moving as she had examined his armor and discovered what had done a majority of the damage. Nodding to that arrangement, as he wished his brother to be well also, he beckoned the youngest sibling over, allowing Leo to rest more as he had been terribly troubled by all of this.
"Lightning? Are you positive? That should have roasted him alive in his armor." Elise asked, bamboozled at the information her sister gave, checking the black and damaged armor to see if it was true.
"The Fulgur Plains are known for their lightning storms darling and the troops flew straight into one. They saved a lot of people but at a great risk. I am confused as to why he doesn't have more burns though…but I'm grateful he doesn't as well. The damage to his eye is magical however, so I don't know how much can be done. I've been making him an eyepatch in my spare time." Camilla told her sister, pointing out the note worthy details that explained his injuries.
Giving a tense nod, Elise smiled slightly and set herself to work, chowing down on the food and drinks available as healing took quiet the toll on a person. The older pair of siblings rested on some large cushions, soon falling asleep as they were exhausted and weary from life. It was only in the early hours of the morning, close to three or four, that Leo silently rose from the bed and snuck out, changing into his commoner clothes so he could make his way down into the underground. Once below and safe, he sighed in relief, easing his pace as things were turning around in life, and strolled over to the statue in the main plaza.
There, sitting somberly at the base with her hood up, was his red-haired friend from Hoshido. She had told him two years ago that her name was Akane, claiming that she was from a rural village and dreamed of being a Pegasus Knight. The pair had bonded, as he claimed he was from a similar situation and told her mostly the truth about his life, only changing the fact that he was actually the second prince of Nohr. Now, as they entered their third year of friendship, they had faced many hardships together, each devastated by the sudden news of the Draco Knight's demise. Today though, He would brighten her life, and maybe tell her the truth as he knew he couldn't hide from her anymore.
Greeting his glum friend Leo said, "Hey, I have some good news for you this morning. You have to keep it between us, okay?"
Confused she looked at him, fiery eyes lighting up some and gaining a familiar warmth. Akane tilted her head to the side, short red hair following softly, as she stated, "This is an unusual good morning, but I'll take it. What news do you have for me Leon?"
He smiled softly and leaned close, whispering, "Ascalon is alive. My big sister found him out in the forest. He's hurt but we're helping him heal up."
At this the spunky girl had no words to say, only tearing up as she thought about her heartbroken brother, how glad he'd be to hear this news, until she questioned how her dear friend knew it. Squinting at the man before her she rested her hands on his shoulders and set him with a firm gaze, asking, "Leon, you've always known so much about the Nohrian royals and Ascalon…who are you? I'm grateful for the information but, I can't believe you anymore when you say that you're a commoner. Are you a soldier?"
"I…You're right. I've been lying to you and…I did so because I didn't want to scare you away. You're a fantastic friend and someone I rely on and trust so much."
"Then trust that I won't run. I'll be honest in that I've been hiding something from you as well, out of fear too none the less. But the world is changing Leon and we don't have to be afraid anymore. I have something I want to tell you, before telling my secret. I have to because then I won't be so scared, you know?"
Heart pounding, as he gazed deep into her bright eyes, he swallowed his worries and nodded, simply happy to see her so lively again. For a while it was like her fire had been snuffed out, taking the fight out of her, and Leo had been so desperate to see her smile again, at least once. But he knew they couldn't go forwards as a duo waist deep in lies anymore. No, he would be honest with her, the reckless but caring young woman in front of him, as she was going to be with him. He put on his bravest smile, giving a nod and holding her hands in his, waiting for her to find the courage to speak clearly.
"Okay, I've got this. Leon, I want you to know that, despite us hiding things from one another, I've grown fond of you…maybe more than fond. You're smart, cunning, brave. You have an amazing heart of gold under that sass, and so, no matter what, I wanted you to know…to know…to know that I…love you. Nohrian or not, I can't help but care. You're the one that always has my back despite you being upset at my unhealthy nature and fighting style. You understand and admire that I put my best foot forward, that I'm strong. And I can only hope, regardless of our secrets, that you love me too. I've never felt like this about any man or woman." She told to him, shakily at some points but always reassured by his hands that never left hers. Nervously she let out a small huff at the end, blushing and wishing she wouldn't, only eased as he chuckled softly.
Leo, happily surprised by this part, smiled at her and looked at their hands, ready to tell her everything. He took a deep breath, releasing it, and replied, "I'm…thrilled to hear you say that as it's something that's been on my mind for some time. It's why I can't lie to you anymore, regardless of what might happen. You are my awesome fiery woman, one that I'd proudly fight with any day, and I only hope you can love me after I tell you who I am."
"I don't doubt I will. You can trust me. Please."
"Ha, I know. Well…oh gods. Fuck. I am not named Leon, and I'm the farthest thing from a commoner. I'm Prince Leo, of Nohr. I grew up with Ascalon; it's how I know him. He was like a second brother to me."
"…Hahahahaha! Oh, the gods must truly hate my brother! Oh gosh! Leo, I'm Hinoka, Princess Hinoka of Hoshido. Boy, those are some tough secrets, aren't they?"
"Holy cow! Are you kidding me? Wait…you don't hate me?"
Crying some as she laughed, Hinoka wrapped Leo in her arms and nestled her head into his neck, grinning as she told him, "No, I think I love you even more. I'm so proud of who you are that it hurts actually. You're a prince and yet day after day you're down here fighting for a better future, for everyone. Oh Leo, I don't think I could ever hate you…despite your dad being a piece of trash that stole my brother."
He paused for a moment, recalling when his father had brought Corrin home and the air of mystery about it, responding quietly with, "He did, didn't he? I always tried to think highly of my father, earn his love, and maybe in a different time I'd still be trying to. But my brother showed me who my father truly is now, the monster he's devolved into. I'm so sorry we took your brother away. I'm so sorry Hinoka."
"Shhhhh. It'll be alright. We have each other, and while it was hard to accept, I know none of the kids had anything to do with it. Lon has told us of how much you all love Corrin and care for him, even though he wasn't part of your group originally. All I can do in the end is thank you for keeping him safe and ask that you'll help me in making this world better so that we can all have our baby brother…and that you and I can be together without conflict. Deal?"
"Of course, my reckless knight! I'll cover your back until the end."
"Good! I'll need you as we need to head back to Hoshido. I need to stop my brother before he leads the country into war. Come on!" She told him, her urgency clear as day, giving him time to send a letter to his siblings to ask that they cover for him while he's away. Then, together, the new couple dashed down the streets of the hidden kingdom, hoping they'd make it in time. Little did either know that a silent being watched in growing hatred as they hurried to prevent its dreams from coming true.
[Castle Krakenburg- 5 am- Villas Courtyard- Xander]
Xander, who hadn't been able to sleep long as he was anxious, paced the courtyard, lost in his thoughts and concerns. It was only when her heard the soft footfalls from behind him in the shadows that he froze, on alert and ready to pounce. A soft hand, one familiar in touch that also carried the soothing scent of camellia flowers, gently reached over an took a hold of his own hand, rolling back his clenched fist and sliding their fingers between his. For a moment her was calm, grateful for the comforting presence that he loved so dearly. An instant later, however, he was on high alert again that she was here in the castle.
Stepping into the darkness with his love Xander tensely asked, "Why are you darling? This is far too dangerous, even for you and-"
"Prince Ryoma is going to declare war on Nohr. He's so ready and your father is not helping one bit. I wanted you see you…one last time." She explained, cutting him off as she fought to be strong.
"What do you mean one last time? What are you saying?"
"I am Ryoma's retainer. I will have to fight…even you. I don't want to, but I have a duty to my liege and country."
"And what about to your heart? Kagero I love. I'd give up the throne for you. Please, please think about us. Look, try and buy me some time; a week. I promise things will get better, but I need the time."
Stunned at the prince's sudden revealing she stood, speechless, muttering, "You'd do that for me? I'm nothing."
Xander held her tightly, head resting on hers, resisting the urge to cry himself before saying back, "You're everything. Please, just one week? I'm doing all I can, and I'll do more if it means I can keep you."
Nodding at her loves request, the ninja kissed him deeply, hoping it wouldn't be the last time, and begrudgingly snuck away to hurry back to her home and the prince. She ran through the ran and mud of the dark land, ducking away from guards and scouts, slinking into the hidden entrance of the underground where she was safe to move. Like the others on a quest that day though, she too was watched, weighed, and measured for the potential threat she might be. None knew the plans that were made in silence and written in blood, fueled by a burdened heart that now was filled with bitterness and rage.
[Safe Haven- Camilla, Ascalon, Elise]
She brushed his long hair while her sister snored away, exhausted from her hard work. Leo had gone out at some point in the morning, as well as Xander, leaving the sisters in the small safe haven. Camilla didn't mind though, as she needed time to figure out what she was going to do, how to let people know Ascalon was still alive without risking his live, without her father trying to murder him himself. Both kingdoms were balanced on the thin edge of a blade, unsure if it was worth the pain to hold themselves up and out of the pit that war is, each side distraught and angered. Later, closer to two in the afternoon, Elise woke up and, after kissing the Draco Knight's forehead, said she was going to go get food for all of them.
The quiet crackle as the flames danced upon the wicks of candles filled the room, creating an air of calm as the princess sidled next to her special person, determined to tell him how she felt once things had smoothed out some. Until then she settled for making sure he was warm and peaceful, tucking a few unruly strands of dark hair back behind his ears, humming softly to herself the song she caught him singing every so often. She didn't understand the words, nor where the tune had originated, but something about it seemed to give her a sense of foreboding, like an ominous prophecy. Halfway through a small groan drew her attention, as it came from the only other person in the room.
Excitement flooding her she leaned over him, resting a hand on his cheek so as to softly welcome him back into the world, smiling brightly as well as crying when both of his eyes opened and were able to see the world. Bleary and confused the golden orbs scanned everything, quickly settling on the beautiful face above him and fixating on it. Ascalon, sore but grateful he was alive, reached up for her, to make sure she was real and not another dream, laughing in relief when she didn't disappear into ash as so many of the visions in his mind did. Ignoring his burning shoulder and bruised self he wrapped his arms around her tightly, crying as he buried his face into her hair and neck. He was back home and that's all that mattered for the next few minutes.
"Milla, I thought I'd never see you again. What's been happening? How long has it been since I left?" He asked, voice gravely and rough as he was still recovering.
Lowering him back onto the pillows she gave a bittersweet smile and explained, "I almost thought I'd never see you again either…I actually found you on the day your funeral was being held. It's been three weeks that most everyone has believed you've been gone; I found you a week ago but…you didn't wake up once I got you here."
"My…funeral? Don't tell me everyone thinks I'm dead? What about Iago and Hans? They were responsible for the whole incident in the first place."
"I'm sorry Lon. I fought with him and went back for you so many times. Father has been all too happy to lie to Nohr and tell them Hoshidans killed you. They're furious, as they should be. I've kept you hidden because if father did find you, he'd…it wouldn't be good. As for Iago and Hans, I found them one of the times I went out. They were dead, and now even more so. I sunk them far beneath the dirt so only in a century the sun will shine on their disgusting bones. Georgie is alright; he's hurt but recovering quickly. I'm so sorry I didn't go with you. If I had known, gods, I would have torn those filth to shreds."
"Or you would have died, and I would be alone as well as your siblings. I grateful you didn't go because I wouldn't have been able to live with myself if you were hurt by them. I…it was a fight from my nightmares. I was losing and did the only thing that I could think of that would kill them."
"Lightning. I could have lost you too. You self-sacrificing asshole, do you have any idea how close to dying you were? You're very lucky that I'm here to patch you back up again, but it hurts so much to have to. To see you hurt so much just because you take everything on yourself, always fighting solo and only reaching for help when you're at death's door." She told him, caught between being angry and sad, tone conveying her confliction to him.
Ascalon, ashamed as he only now considered this, looked away for a moment and focused his eyes on her hands that clutched his so dearly, the bracelet that, while damaged, still held strong…like her. "I know Milla, and I'm a fool for doing this to someone so important to me. I wish I could promise to you that I won't do it anymore but we both know I'd be lying. I don't want to see you this heartbroken again though, so I'll try. I'm sorry." He apologized, shutting his eyes and pulling her down to rest next to him.
Her heart pounded in her chest, threatening to leap out into the world, as she opened her mouth to speak only to be cut off by Elise gasping in pleasant surprise and then running over, hurriedly setting the food down and pouncing onto the bed. Careful of his injuries the little princess hugged the Draco Knight, sobbing uncontrollably and scolding him for being so reckless, telling him she was happy he was awake. From there she went on to explain the restrictions he'd have to deal with for the next few days, telling him he was very lucky that his heart survived the lightning strike as that organ usually gave out from such a shock. Continuing on she interrogated him on his other injuries, how he received them, and pausing in utter confusion as he told what happened to his eye.
"You can see even better out of it? Out of both eyes? Let me look at them; this is bull." Elise responded, unable to buy the explanation given. Yet as she checked them, she froze as she found something was different. Bewildered and worried she slowly said, "Camilla, look at his pupils. That's not normal, anywhere."
Her sister leaned over, gently holding his chin and turning his head towards her, so she could see what was a matter, letting out a small gasp as she noticed it. No longer were his pupils black or a normal shape for that matter, now taking on a brown/golden hue and a shape similar to that of an upside-down tear, something found in reptiles and dragons. They also looked even clearer than human eyes did, a kin to perfect glass spheres that had just been polished. Camilla, more worried now than before, continued to gaze at them, even as she spoke.
"Eli, we cannot let father find him…I don't think Lon is human." Was all she could say.
[Lost in Thoughts and Time]
A slumbering heart beat as the flames of life coursed back through its veins, slowly but surely, breathing again and thanking their gods for the life it had been given back. They knew, even in their sleep, that they had altered their time and would face the repercussions of challenging Fate to such a thing, to keep a life that was meant to be gone. Even as hope was relit for many, time and destiny bellowed at the slight, distraught by the many alterations desperately made to save this pathetic world and the weak creatures in it. Yet they were incapable of changing it now, irritated by the soft hearts of the divine dragons as they had given gifts to many of their instruments they groomed for a battle they did not know of, the waters of time ran down a new uncarved path, destructively carving into the ground and wanting nothing more than to return to the original path. A need and desire to fight against the preordained plan made pushed this new stream further away, distancing it from the rest and giving this world a chance for new life, protected by fierce flames that followed along and guarded this new beginning from the clawing and tearing clutches of order. A chance to break free and save many who could not be kept in other times, including the original spark of these fire that breathed life into the darkness.
[Near the Border, Nohr- Hinoka and Leo]
Together the couple ran, both worried they'd be caught and have to fight, ready with their weapons. Hinoka had picked up her naginata from where she normally stashed it, explaining that normally she had a Pegasus to ride but left it at home as she would be underground. Leo laughed, having a similar situation except that his horse didn't fly, revealing that the book he always carried on his person was in fact his tome, one only he could wield as the magic seemed to disagree with anyone else. In an attempt to lighten the mood, they spoke of happier times, him telling her what growing up was like and how originally him and Ascalon had a rough start, explaining that the Draco Knight had a tendency to parent him at the worst times before they had a big argument. Since then, after the prince had finished shouting at the then captain, he was overjoyed that his blue-haired brother had taken a different approach to understanding him, becoming a vital part of the mage's life. Leo told her of how he became the father figure in his life, next to Xander, always setting aside time for him and reassuring him he was just as amazing as everyone else, no matter what others said.
Warmed and touched by the tender relationship, Hinoka explained her own connection to the man, retelling how they met and the promise that had been made, thus leading to a lasting friendship. She explained her own home life to her love, how she had a few relationships some with guys, some with girls, and how in every one of them there had been a lack of understanding and accepting of who she was. Her mother, ever supportive of her children, always said that the one would come out of nowhere, when you're not looking, and so she took that to heart and for years dedicated herself to training. The princess rarely took time off, as she knew that one day, she would rescue her brother and bring him home, only relaxing when she was camping with Ascalon and friends or visiting Leo. Fondly she told the prince of how much she wished her father could have met him, seen how promising the heirs of Nohr were as well as a chance for peace, giggling when the prince blushed at the high compliments.
Finishing her tangent, Hinoka looked to Leo who had slowed down and was suddenly more cautious than before. She stopped, asking, "What's wrong? Is there an enemy?"
"I don't know but, just over that ridge it the Fulgur Plains. It's where that recent battle happened, the one that almost killed Ascalon. Can't you smell that stench?" He explained to her, wrinkling his nose as the smell of burnt flesh stung his nose.
"Oh gods! Yeah, I smell it now. That's awful! What happened? Can we even go through?"
"We can; neither of us have much metal on and are small targets. As for what happened, I'm not certain. My father sent the entirety of the Wyvern Troops out save for Camilla, claiming that a rebel base was near here. From what the soldiers said though, it was a trap, one he planned and meant for all of them to die in. I mean, they're flying beasts with armor, as well as their riders; they were fricken lighting rods with wings!"
"…What ruler does that to their own men? That's just cruel and monstrous!"
"I know. Only half of the troop survived. My father loathes Ascalon, the change he's been influencing. People can be executed for even speaking his name now. Something in my father changed and I'm going to find out what. I'll bet it has to do with that dark magic Iago practices though; he could open portals, I've seen it."
"That's not good at all. That's tampering with time, destiny. He could tear apart our reality! Orochi always warned me of this." Hinoka exclaimed as they hiked over the small hill, stopping at the top to watch the butchered remains of a battle field that lay before her.
Leo, next to her and taking in the sight of dead wyverns littering the field, sickened that his own parent was responsible for this, held the princess's hand and said, "Honestly, I think our reality has already been torn. Nohr is dark but this is hell."
[Castle Krakenburg, Throne Room- The Next Day- Xander]
He was a nervous wreck on the inside. His father, out of nowhere, wished to see him immediately, saying that it was of the utmost importance. The crown prince had been ordered to appear unarmed however, which deeply concerned him and shook the man to his core. As it was, after Elise had healed Ascalon more, watching as the Draco Knight was able to get up and walk without trouble, she had vanished, as well as Leo. He left Camilla with the blue-haired man, telling her to stay safe, as he made his way, head held high, and entered the intimidating Throne Room. Sitting on the grand throne was his father, or what was left of the once great man, now a paranoid and unstable shell of who he once was. He walked to the normal spot, kneeling down and bowing, waiting for his father to speak.
"My son, do you know why I have called you here?" Garon asked, his voice dangerously calm, filled with a sense of knowing.
"No father. I am not privy to the reason of this meeting." Xan replied, keeping his voice level.
"It has been brought to my attention that you may have some information that is quite valuable, and dangerous in the wrong hands, about our recently deceased general. I've also heard tale that we may be going to war with Hoshido…and that some believe you are no longer fit for it. Well Xander…"
"Father…the only information that I know about Ascalon is that he was skilled and used and odd fighting method, as well as had the ability to speak to dragons. Camilla believes him alive, or at least until his funeral, where she I believe accepted the truth finally. As for war with Hoshido, it would happen inevitably and while I mourn the loss of my ally, I am more than capable to enter the fray."
"Good. Your brother has been missing for two days, and Elise today. What do you know of this?"
"Nothing. I was going to ask you about them, as I believed you may know. Might I ask who questioned my steel and determination to serve my country?" Xander asked, keeping his cold stoic mask on to hide the unsettling acid that crept up his throat with anxiety.
Chuckling in a deep rumbling manner, Garon gave a single small nod and turned his attention to one of the pillars behind him. From behind it came forth a person the prince was sure had died. Someone that completely turned the tables and pulled the rug out from under his feet. Only by some miracle did he not break and reveal all that he hid.
[Later that Night- Safe Haven- Siblings, Ascalon]
Corrin sat on the bed next to his brother, listening as Xander explained what had happened in the Throne Room, how the entire game had changed, and the situation all of them were in, trying to avoid what they were thinking about. He had been snuck here in the dark of the night to be shown that Ascalon was indeed alive, hearing the story his brother retold, eyes widening so much that they might fall out of their sockets. An anger rose from in him as he was appalled at what his father had done, disgusted to even be related. Yet still, his relief was enough to wash away those emotions for an instant as he was grateful the Draco Knight was made of stronger stuff. That joy was shoved aside however, as Xan now spoke as to what occurred earlier.
"Iago is alive? Milla confirmed he was dead though; buried him even! How can this be?" Ascalon said, loudly at first yet muttering in the end in disbelief.
Xander, who was the physical embodiment of a tired mess, leaned against one of the cabinets and sighed, shaking his head. "I'm not sure Lon. I wanted to kill him the second I saw him but…this is bad to say the least. We can't keep you hidden forever and if he even suspects that we know something, he'll find a way to get it out of us. He's not him anymore. The father I knew was never this cruel and twisted. He said if any of my siblings turned out to be a traitor it was my duty to execute them…you included Corrin."
Taking a shaky breath Corrin responded with, "Well, we won't let that happen. All of us will play along until Lon is back on his feet, smuggle him and Georgie out, and then…figure out something."
Camilla stepped in and said, "We could all get away. The Hoshidan royals know of us, know Ascalon. We could move there and be safe. It's not ideal but it's better than father killing all of us."
"Yes, but what if he has Elise? I haven't been able to find her, or Leo for that matter. And I can't leave behind the good men and women that rely on me." Replied a concerned Xander, guilt clear.
"We could bring them all. Then we can ally with Hoshido and fight-"
"Fight our own people? That's madness and betrayal. I could never-"
Fed up with the fighting, as it wasn't solving anything, Ascalon shouted, "ENOUGH! Both of you stop. Just…just stop." All eyes turned to the frustrated Draco Knight, waiting for him to continue as the silence settled. Sighing he said, "Look, we are all terrified, whether we'll say it or not. We can't leave our people though. And I for one will not go into hiding and cower in the shadows just because I was hurt by the abomination that is our kingdom's strategist! You all are trying to make decisions about my future without even asking me. What needs to happen is the world needs to learn that I'm not dead, and for the people to gather their strength and fight. For the first time in a long time Hoshidans and Nohrians are working side by side for the same goal, and I won't abandon them to the wrath that is the sludge Garon has become. Something is wrong with him…something I think is not from here. Iago is wicked strong and has been opening portals to other worlds, times, all to gain power and take over…but something is giving him that energy, as well as the king. I felt it when we fought, when he did this to my face."
Pausing to breathe, Ascalon continued with, "There, no doubt, is a third party at play here. That fight I went into in the Fulgur Plains was one I should have won, but something unnatural occurred. Towards the end of the fight, in an area barren of trees, a tree root came out of the ground and tripped me. The magic Iago used, the tome that burned in the lighting strike, was in a language that Camilla and I have read about in fairy tales. Your father, when he believes he is alone, talks to someone he calls the 'Silent Dragon'. None of this is just bad luck or a coincidence. Messing with time is bad and I have a sneaking suspicion that Iago and Jezebel may have screwed all of us into a fight we didn't ask for."
Stunned silent, the group pondered what he said for a long moment, comparing their own experiences as well and connecting the dots. It was a couple of minutes later that Camilla asked, "What do we do then? How can we fight what we don't know, and what won't die?"
"We play along until for a few more days; By then I should be good to move. From there, we set fire to the toxic environment Garon has made…we start the revolution. If any of you think you can't do it, it's okay to back out. In the end we will be fighting your father and whatever has turned him into what he is now, and that might be a god. It might not. If we fail, we will die, there's no way around it…this is your last chance to back out."
It was a minute or two before Camilla stuck her hand out, taking Ascalon's hand with hers. Corrin, determined to bring peace, put his in as well, pride burning brightly. They all looked to their eldest brother, the one that would lead their country once this was all over and smiled reassuringly as he at last joined in with them, accepting the fate that had fallen upon his shoulders, realizing at this moment that his duty, in the end, was to his people, not the king. His father had turned into a beast he'd never fathomed possible, but fate gave him the tools to stop his tyranny. United in their goal they all discussed their plans further, planning out what they would do with the last of their time in the castle. Afterwards, once they had all hugged each other tightly and said how much they loved one another, Corrin was taken back to the Northern Fortress by Camilla while Xander retired to his room. Ascalon, left alone until the princess returned, shut his eyes and thanked the dusk and dawn dragons for all that he had, including his life, and asked that they guide him and the others through this turbulent future they were approaching at a breakneck speed. By the time Camilla returned, he was fast asleep, leaving room for her next to him.
[Hidden Passages, Castle Krakenburg- 1am- Elise]
She wasn't sure where all of the day had gone too. Effie had snuck down to the underground with her, helping her find some healing herbs and other medicinal items so she might heal her brother faster, calming her nerves as she fretted about the magical wounds he had sustained. Only when the clock struck midnight, and every shop and stall were closed, did they return to the castle, depositing some of the items into her room. It was when she was walking through the passages, hidden in the walls, that she felt an odd tugging at her…like a magical pull. For a moment she contemplated whether or not to listen to it, as she really needed to continue healing Ascalon, but elected to check on it quickly just to be safe. Sneaking along she followed it until it led to a disguised peep hole into the Throne Room. Standing inside were three figures, two of them making her catch her breath.
Her father stood, almost like a statue, with a resurrected Iago and Hans next to him, all looking to the ceiling in a trance like gaze. Seconds later they snapped out of it, an odd nearly invisible aura around them fading away and disappearing. With a nod they spoke to one another, secret plans horrifying the young princess and making her cover her mouth to keep from revealing herself. As much as she wanted to block it out, pretend it wasn't real, she knew she had to listen, to tell her family before they were all either sent to their planned out deaths or executed on the destined days, ones her father hand picked as it would please this unknown god he spoke of, one that thirsted for blood and ruin to all.
"Why must we fall apart to understand how to fly? I will find a way even without wings!" - Evanescence
Thank you all for the support and I will update again soon. This chapter was a doozy, as it was very plot heavy, and I hope everything came across clearly. Also, Happy Holidays! Until next time!