Chapter 9: Reunion

The morning of the meeting dawned bright and clear. Severa and Cynthia headed down to the stables to saddle Blizzard and Starlight, and were tightening up their saddle-girths when the Exalt arrived. Lucina's smile looked like that of an excited child: she was anxious to be able to see her friends again after all of the time they had spent apart.

"Are you two ready to go?" she said brightly.

"Yup! All ready here!" Cynthia said.

"Just about," Severa replied, just a beat behind.

"Do you mind if I ride with one of you?" said Lucina, a slightly sheepish expression on her face. "I know that we planned on flying down there together, but I'm not really the best rider."

Wait-wait-wait, ride with one of us? Severa's pulse skyrocketed. This could be my chance to—

"You can ride behind me, Lucy!" said Cynthia, beaming. "Starlight will have no problem carrying us both."

"Thank you," said Lucina. She stepped forward and petted Starlight's nose. "And thank you, too, Starlight." The pegasus snorted bashfully.

Severa's eye twitched. Too slow. She took Blizzard's reins, leading her own pegasus out of her stall. "Come on, you can pet Starlight later. If we don't leave soon, we'll be late."

"Yeah, I guess," said Cynthia, leading Starlight out as well. Lucina followed after her, humming happily to herself. Oh gods. She is an excited child.

Severa took the lead, taking off first. Once Blizzard was smoothly gliding, she glanced back over her shoulder, seeing Starlight a ways back with Cynthia and Lucina in the saddle together. Lucina had her arms wrapped around Cynthia's waist, and the pair were laughing together as the wind blew back their hair. She felt a brief pang of jealousy. It wasn't that she considered Cynthia a rival—after hearing a few of the things Cynthia had said about the male Shepherds, Severa was almost certain that her interests lay in the opposite direction—but the chance to spend time together with Lucina was something she envied.

She turned back to face the front and banished those thoughts from her mind. Better to not think of it. It's not like it'll accomplish anything.

The flight to Southtown was just over half an hour. With gentle winds and clear skies, it passed by pleasantly enough. They passed over the village and swooped down in a long, gentle arc towards the field. The meeting was to take place near a grove of trees, to provide them some shade: even though it was August, the sun was still very warm. Severa saw most of the others already gathered, but she landed near the edge of the field—partially because she didn't want to disturb the meeting by landing directly in the center, and partially because she didn't want to be the first one of the trio to show up. She dismounted and waited for Cynthia to land.

Lucina slid down from the saddle almost as soon as Starlight's hooves touched the ground. She smiled broadly, beckoning to Cynthia and Severa. "Come on, let's go!" She strode off without waiting for an answer, Cynthia directly behind her—still in the saddle, for some reason. Severa followed at a more measured pace.

Laurent was in the middle of talking as they approached. "So, is everyone here? We should get started."

"Pardon me," said Lucina, stepping forward. "Do you mind if I join you?"

There was a moment of shocked exclamations from most of the others as she stepped out from behind the tree. Severa, still out of their view as she unsaddled Blizzard, rolled her eyes. And where did Cynthia go? Did she take off again?

"Shouldn't you be in the castle?" said Brady, scratching at the back of his neck with one hand.

Lucina laughed. "Don't worry. I've left Ylisstol in the hands of capable soldiers. It'll be fine while I'm away."

Severa stifled a laugh of her own at that. Capable? Well, that's not how I'd describe most of them, but I suppose that they'll do just fine as long as we're at peace.
"We're not worried about Ylisstol. We're worried about you!" said a male voice. Severa didn't recognize the speaker at first, and did a double-take as she realized it was Gerome: without his mask, for the first time she could remember. I guess he outgrew it, huh? The wyvern rider continued on, gesturing with one hand. "As gifted as you are with a sword, the exalt shouldn't be walking around alone."
"Who said I was alone?" Lucina replied.

As Gerome blinked in confusion, Cynthia seemed to decide that was her cue. Starlight dove from the skies like a thunderbolt, landing directly in the center of the circle to complete Cynthia's grand entrance on pegasus-back."Ta-daaa! Say hello to Cynthia of the all-new Ylissean Pegasus Knights!" Ah, I see. She did take off again… she never could resist an opportunity for drama.
Even the normally unflappable Kjelle seemed stunned by the manner of Cynthia's entrance, but she was the quickest to recover. "Cynthia?! Where did you come from?"
Sumia's daughter beamed, humming happily to herself. "Great entrance, right? I always dreamed Phila's knights would one day ride again. And hey, if the Shepherds get another shot, who says the pegasus knights can't too?"
"Cynthia begged me, and I just couldn't say no," Lucina explained with a smile.
Cynthia slid down from the shoulder and threw a companionable arm around the Exalt's shoulders. "Hey, either way, you need protection, right? Win-win. Me and my sisters won't let anyone put a scratch on you!"
Noire spoke up. As usual, she spoke so softly that Severa almost had to strain to hear her. "Sisters? Who else is in the pegasus knights?"

Well, now that Blizzard is unsaddled, I guess I can't really stall much longer… Severa took a deep breath and stepped out into the open. She couldn't think of anything to say, and suddenly felt uncomfortable at the scrutiny of her friends.

"Severa?" Noire tilted her head to the side, puzzled. "I was wondering why I hadn't seen you at the Shepherds' camp. You enlisted in the pegasus knights?"
"Does it matter?" said Severa, reflexively switching back to sarcasm. At the others' looks, she crossed her arms huffily. "Yeesh, I wasn't about to say no to Cynthia. And don't get it in your head that I want to be like my mother," she added hurriedly.
Noire chuckled, obviously not buying it. "Heh. Why would I ever think that?"

Severa merely huffed again and turned away. She was quite proud of how she had phrased her excuse. Denying that I want to be like my mother will convince them that's the reason I joined the pegasus knights. She stole a glance at Lucina's back. And they won't pry into the reason why I really did…
Meanwhile, Cynthia had begun gushing to the rest of them about how the training was progressing. "Severa's amazing, you guys. She handles a lance better than anyone, and you should see her toss a javelin! I bet Cordelia herself couldn't throw half as far. The rest of us have a lot of catching up to do."
Nah grinned over at Severa. "I can see the capital is in good hands!"
"And I am too. So put your worries to rest," added Lucina, smiling at Severa as well. That smile made Severa's heart skip a beat, and she scratched at her cheek to cover her sudden blush of embarrassment.

Luckily, nobody was looking at her, as the Exalt continued on. "And really, can you blame me for coming? You gather everyone together and don't even invite me? I've missed you!"
There were a few guilty looks from the others, but it was Owain who finally spoke up to break the ice. "You take after your father, Lucina. At least from what I've heard. ...Anyway, here we all are. The Twelve Heroes!" He clapped his hands together in a brisk, businesslike manner. I guess he really is a real officer, now. "Let's get this meeting started, Laurent."
The mage straightened his glasses and pulled a few papers from his pack. "Right you are." Laurent cleared his throat. "Thank you for all coming to this regular meeting of the Shepherds. The purpose of this meeting is twofold: firstly, as a renewal of the bonds between comrades; and secondly, as a debriefing of sorts for the war against Grima." He paused for a moment. "Well, I suppose that debriefing would not be an entirely accurate term, as it would imply the war was completely over…"

"Yes, it's important not to count our victories before they are won," said Kjelle. "Grima may be gone, but our work is far from over."

"And just when I thought I was safe, too," moaned Yarne, nervously twisting his long ears between his hands.

"Hey, look on the bright side: you can deal with Risen more easily than those conservationists," said Nah encouragingly.

Both of them fell silent as Laurent directed a glare in their direction. "As I was saying. Our main objective now that Grima has been defeated is the restoration of order throughout the Ylissean continent and, eventually, the Valmese Empire as well." He nodded to Gerome. "You have been dedicating some time to that, have you not?"

"When I'm not in Wyvern Valley, yes," said Gerome, idly scratching Minerva under the chin. The wyvern let out a long, low rumble that could easily have been the purring of a massive cat. "I've been working with the noble families of the eastern lands. They neighbored Rosanne before the Conqueror decided to rearrange the map, and many were allies of my father's once upon a time. The occasional polite visit keeps them convinced that I'm the right man to replace my father as duke… and in the meantime, they've been performing admirably in leading relief efforts for the surrounding territories."

Inigo nodded approvingly. "Using the name of House Virion to your advantage. Very shrewd of you."

"I'd try to do the same for House Themis, but ya know… well, I ain't exactly the perfect nobleman," said Brady with a shrug.

Laurent gave him a sympathetic look. "Elocution isn't everything, my friend."

"Somewhere on the other side, Lady Maribelle was chilled by you saying so," said Nah, smirking.

"We're making good progress. By next spring, we should be ready to extend restoration efforts towards the Valmese capital, and perhaps to Chon'sin as well." Gerome looked over at the others. "How are things over here?"

"Our valiant efforts have seen to the safety of most of Ylisse proper," said Owain. "With the exception of a few isolated pockets, almost all of the Risen on our soil have been eradicated."

"You could have been a bit more thorough," said Severa. "We nearly got into trouble cleaning up after you." Her smile softened the blow of her words—though only slightly.

"As far as the other countries go, however, we've got a long way to go," said Kjelle. "Most of the refugees ended up in Ylisse, so it makes sense to concentrate our efforts here, but once the Shepherds and the pegasus knights have had more training, we'll have to begin focusing our efforts outward."

"Probably to Ferox, yeah?" said Brady. "Since they're our ally and all."

"I, um…" Noire spoke up diffidently. "I'm worried about Plegia, actually. I know it's not really my home, even if it was my mother's, but… well, the people there have been through so much."

"That's a good point," said Lucina, her brow furrowing. "After all, since Grima manifested there, theirs is the most devastated land. It's also possible that many civilians who are not of the Grimleal have survived, and, if so, they will need our assistance."

"Helping those in need is the heroic thing to do, after all," said Cynthia, smiling.

"Bear in mind, before we get carried away," said Laurent, "that these are longitudinal plans. We'll have nothing definite until next spring, at least: it's too late in the year to start a full military campaign of reclamation: we'd never get our supplies across the mountains in the middle of winter."

"Plus, you'd have to negotiate with whatever passes for a government in Plegia," Gerome pointed out. "I'm not sure who's in charge after the war, but that would be good to find out."

"That's not really the sort of thing that you can ask straight out, given the terms your countries are on," Nah pointed out.

Inigo raised a hand. "Brady and I could see to finding out more, if you want."

"You and Brady?" said Severa. "What exactly makes you qualified to gather intelligence?"

"We're capable enough to fend for ourselves, and I don't think that anyone will see anything amiss about a couple of traveling performers." He gave Severa one of his so-called dazzling smiles. "Plus, if we can spread a little joy to the common folk as we go, it will certainly be worth the effort."

Owain stroked his chin. "The plan has merit, to be certain." He turned to his fellow officers. "Kjelle, Laurent, what do you think?"

"As long as they're careful, I see no problem with it," said Kjelle. "I have no objections."

"Nor do I," said Laurent. "When will you be departing?"

"Uh… probably not immediately," said Inigo. "There are… things that we need to do—"

"He means that he doesn't want to miss the Ylisstol Harvest Festival," said Brady. "We've been workin' on those dances for a long time, and it'd be a shame to waste 'em, ya know?"

Laurent smiled. "Well, I suppose a small delay would be acceptable. After all, I would hate to miss out on Inigo's dancing."

"H-hey, don't smirk like that!" A blush rose in Inigo's cheeks as the rest of the group looked at him measuringly. "I get nervous, you know?"

"I'm glad that we have a plan for the Plegian situation," said Laurent. "Thank you for your assistance."

"Sure… no problem," said Inigo, rallying to regain some of his usual confidence and charm. "Any time."

Laurent shuffled around the papers once again, pulling out another report. "...And next, I have a report about the restoration of Mount Prism, which is—"
A sudden movement of Minerva's neck was the only warning that they got before the wyvern reared her head back and roared. Severa clapped her hands over her ears, wincing. Well, she's as loud as ever…

As the roar died down, Laurent pulled his own hands down and gave Minerva's rider a level glare. "...Gerome. Please keep your mount quiet during the meeting."
Gerome rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Sorry." He patted his wyvern on the snout, soothingly, but she continued to rumble. "...What is it, Minerva?" The wyvern let out another series of sounds, almost like speech. Gerome seemed to understand, for a look of concern came to his face the moment she finished. "...What?! This is bad. Minerva says she senses Risen nearby!"
Lucina gasped, looking off in the direction of the town. Severa could sense her Exalt's thought process: her first instinct was to protect the people.
Gerome continued on, gritting his teeth. "Just a few of them, but... Damn! I thought we got rid of them all!" He began climbing up into Minerva's saddle, wheeling her head about towards where she had smelled the Risen.
"I guess peace is an ongoing project," said Yarne dolefully. He stretched, limbering up.
"We'll finish them off. These things take time," Inigo supplied cheerfully.
Owain was significantly more dramatic as he unsheathed his sword and gave it a jaunty twirl. "And so the mighty heroes fought on, uncertain as to when their tale would end..."
"Hmph. Let the Risen come! We'll knock 'em into next week," Brady muttered as he followed after them.
Nah bounced her dragonstone in her palm, grinning at Kjelle. "It has been a while since we've really flexed our muscles, hasn't it?"
The Shepherds' co-commander chuckled, gripping her lance. "I know. I'm going to enjoy scattering these scoundrels."
"I'm glad I brought my bow," added Noire with a high, nervous giggle.

Laurent adjusted his glasses, frowning. "Now hold on just a moment! You're not all marching out there, are you? It's just a handful of Risen."
"Hey, ya never can be too sure!" said Brady.
Yarne nodded in agreement. "We shouldn't spare any resources when it comes to keeping the locals safe."
"Better too many of us than too few," Gerome added.
"Yes, Laurent." Inigo turned back and took the Shepherds' new tactician by the arm. "So stop complaining and get your equipment!"
Laurent's tone was indignant. "What? I didn't volunteer!" At the looks the others were directing at him, however, he sighed and threw up his hands in defeat. "Oh, all right..."
As the group marched off, Owain crowed out in triumph. "Look out, vile Risen! Chrom's New Shepherds are about to ruin your day!"
The Exalt and her bodyguards watched them go: Lucina in bemusement, Severa in confusion, and Cynthia in disappointment. They had barely gotten out of sight when she spoke up. "Um, Lucina..."
"What's wrong, Cynthia?" the Exalt replied.
"Do you think they'll be all right?"
Severa snorted at the question. "Against a handful of Risen? I think they can handle things. Come on. They haven't even been gone that long." She paused for a moment. Cynthia really wants to go out there. She misses being out in action. And… Severa came to a sudden realization. If she leaves, that will leave me and Lucina by ourselves…

This is my chance. Severa smirked knowingly at Cynthia and continued on. "...Or wait, let me guess. You want an excuse to try out your new battle cries?"
"Th-that is not true," said Cynthia poutily. "I'm just worried. That's all."
Lucina exchanged a knowing glance with Severa before turning back to her knight-commander. "It's all right, Cynthia. I understand. Go check on our friends. Consider that an order from your exalt."
Cynthia's face lit up. "You mean it? Thanks, Lucina!" She dashed over to Starlight and, within moments, had launched off into the sky to catch up with the others.
Severa and Lucina stood side by side, watching her go. After a moment, Severa turned to her princess. "You sure you should be sending one of your guards away?"
The Exalt smiled at her. "I still have you, Severa. And let's not forget I have myself. I've smashed apart my share of Risen." She patted Falchion's worn hilt meaningfully.
Severa chuckled. "Ha! If they think the exalt's an easy target, they're in for a nasty surprise." She's so strong, even on her own… Even alone, I know she would have found a way to win. "You don't even need pegasus knights, do you? Not really." Too late she realized that she had spoken the last sentences, voicing aloud her own insecurities.
Lucina gave her a disbelieving look. "Of course I need you. You're the source of my strength."
"Mm-hmm." Severa looked away. She's just saying that to make me feel better.
She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Lucina standing alongside her. The princess gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "I mean it."
"...If you say so." Severa began twisting a few strands of hair around her finger, nervous. Don't just stand there, you idiot! Say something! Anything! She tugged at the strands, feeling the light pull against her scalp. I…

Kjelle's voice echoed through her head. "Grima may be defeated, but our work is far from over." Severa gritted her teeth. Gods… nothing can be simple, can it? Lucina has her purpose, and I have mine.

She drew away, injecting false cheer into her voice. "Well, Cynthia's got her orders, so why don't you and I wait for her at the castle? I'll give you a ride. Let me just get saddled up, and I'll be right back."

The Exalt smiled. "Thank you, Severa."

It took her longer than it usually would to saddle Blizzard: her hands seemed clumsier than usual, as if numbed by the cold. At last, though, she managed to do it. She turned, seeing Lucina staring up at the sky as if in a trance, and shouted, "Lucina! All ready!"

Lucina turned to her with a smile and called back. "I'll be right there!"

Moments later, with Lucina's arms wrapped around her waist, Severa spurred Blizzard into the sky.

"This was nice," said Lucina, once they'd leveled out. "It was good to see everyone again, even if the meeting did get cut short."

"We'll have more time to catch up with them at the festival, hopefully," said Severa. Lucina was warm against her back, and she determinedly squashed the thoughts she was having.

"I hope so." Lucina leaned her head against Severa's shoulder, the last word extended by a long yawn.

"Sleepy already?" said Severa incredulously. "It's barely past noon!"

"I couldn't… sleep much last night," said Lucina. "Too excited…"

"Well, make sure that you get some sleep when we get back to the castle, all right?"

"All right," Lucina said. "Though I might just… right now…" Her head sagged against Severa's back again.

Severa put a hand to Lucina's arm wrapped around her stomach, smiling. "Don't worry, Lucina. I won't let you fall."

"Appreciate it," the Exalt murmured. Within a few moments, her steady breathing let Severa know that she was dozing.

Lucina… Even if I can never truly be your equal, perhaps this will be enough. The warmth on her back, Lucina's steady breathing, the soft wind of Blizzard's passage through the skies: it was a truly idyllic moment, one that Severa almost wished would never come to an end.

As long as I can continue to be by your side…