FE Fates of The World

by YueTian

Koharu and her friends are trying to get to a destination that only one knows of. Mikoto returned to them with a new friend name Natsuhiko, who agreed to follow them. Everything was going well till everybody wakes up and find themselves in a world of fantasy. Wyverns, magic, dragons. As well as the very thing they are afraid of: War. Can they return home alive? (Image not mine.)

5. Chapter 5: Mysteries

Mysteries

A small girl in a red kimono was playing with a colorful ball amongst the forest of tall green bamboos. She had long pink hair and was intently keeping the ball bouncing steadily in place. There was a feminine voice calling out as she turned and saw a bright light come at her with full speed.

"Koharu!"

Koharu suddenly sat up with her head in her hands in a panic gasping for air and sweat pouring down her cheeks.

"Are you all right, Koharu?"

She could hear the familiar voice of her friend and a hand on her back as she slowly looked up to her, "P-P-Princess Elise?"

The girl gave her a strained smile as she nodded, "Yup!"

Seeing her face and her retainers behind her looking to her anxiously with the sight of the room given to her, Koharu heaved a sigh of relief seeing the place she was in as she weakly replied with a small nod, "I-I'm all right. It was most likely a bad dream. I-I'm sorry if I worried you."

"It looks like as if it was a really bad nightmare." Elise noted worryingly, "You were tossing and turning when we came up to wake you up. Anyway, if it's all right with you, wanna go sell some flowers again? I picked a lot from the castle this morning with Arthur and Effie! I'm sure everyone will like flowers with morning dew still on them!"

"R-Really?" Koharu's eyes widen.

Elise nodded before Effie brought out the baskets of red roses. Koharu gasped in amazement, "They're beautiful! The townspeople will like them for sure!"

"See!" Elise smiled proudly, "Then, we'll wait for you outside so you can change! I'll see you at the streets later with Effie."

The girl waved her hand and quickly rushed out the door as Effie turned to her, "I'm sorry we woke you up so early, but Princess Elise couldn't contain her excitement to come to play with you. She left as soon as she could this morning. Cassita has gone to prepare breakfast."

"I see." Koharu smiled as she got out of her bed, "Thank you for letting me know, Miss Effie."

The woman gave her a small nod before hurrying after her liege. Koharu looked around her room clean and tidy from the effort she had put into clean it with Cassita's help. It's already been a week since she arrived in this country of Nohr and, thanks to the help of many kind people, she was able to find herself a place to fit in without standing out in any way. It was very unusual to suddenly make friends with a royal princess and she had the support of her friend's siblings to find her friends. Of course, she grew increasingly worried about their situation regarding their family relations. However, Elise was certain that knowing that she cared for them was enough support as it is, which she hopes is true but wasn't certain if it was that easy. She was still worried about it and the situation of their country as she began to learn of the country's situation much more. The war was a frightening thing to her and was still new, but she felt more relieved that the kingdoms still don't have the existence of dangerous weapons she had to encounter in her country. She wanted to think of a way to help her new friends in their dilemma when she heard that they were forced to part and fight against their siblings, whom they love, but she feared that her help would only be making the problem much worse than it already is. As she pondered how to go about this dilemma, she left the front door having finished dressing and her meal. She carried the basket of roses left for her in Cassita's care. She made her way through the usually busy streets trying not to get pushed around by those hurrying about with their morning errands or plans. It wasn't long before she spotted them. The princess in her usual getup and her retainers with their armors, but weapons. As usual, she met up with the three and went by calling them by their aliases. Like that, her day went by as normal as it has started the last couple of days selling flowers and seeing the sights of the capital. Unlike what she saw above the ground the world below was so full of life and filled with very kind people. She was so surprised to see the contrast of the kingdom and was ecstatic when she felt like she was fitting in quite nicely with them despite her problem. However, as the days went by she couldn't help but think of her comrades and friends back on the ship and him. She wondered where the group is and if they'll ever be able to find them, especially when she's taking shelter in the underground city. As she received the amount of money and exchanged a couple roses to the man, Elise hurried over to her in her plain dress disguise with a bright smile, "I've just finished selling all of my flowers. How about you, Lily?"

With the last two flowers gone, she displayed the empty basket to her new friend with a smile, "I'm finished too."

"That's great!" Elise grinned wider, "Then, let's go back to and see Cassita."

As they nodded and made their way back, Koharu suddenly felt a sudden push behind her and, when she looked, saw a small girl run off without looking back to them.

"Hold it, thief!"

Suddenly, a market clerk from one of the stalls rushed passed the four. Arthur's eye widen as he began, "Milady, I-!"

"Don't go!" Cassita pulled her colleague back with a grimace, "If you do, it'll blow all of our covers. Also, that child was probably starving by the looks of it…"

Elise grimaced, "Effie is right, but…"

"U-Um…" Koharu looked around anxiously, "But, is there anything we can do to help?"

Elise frowned before she turned to Effie, "Hey, Effie. You know more about the capital than we do, right? Is there something we can do to help the girl?"

"That's…" The pink retainer glanced around hesitantly before she nodded, "Then, Arthur and Koharu will go catch the clerk's attention. Milady, follow after me. The rest of you meet us back at Ms. Cassita's house."

Koharu and Elise nodded before hurrying to their group as she followed after Arthur. The two quickly made their way down the path as Arthur spoke with a grimace, "Stealing is evil, but, well…"

Koharu frowned as they ran, "Th-That's true… B-But, I don't think the girl was doing it because she wanted to… Miss. Cassita told us to catch his attention… but how are we going to do that?"

Arthur frowned, "Well… Woah!"

Suddenly, a large carriage slammed behind the retainer flinging him into the air and landing before the clerk. The man came to a halt, "What in the world?!"

Koharu gasped and rushed over to the two, "A-Are you all right?!"

Arthur quickly got to his feet with a nervous smile, "I-It's not a problem!"

"Damn it!" The other grimaced, "Maybe not for you. But you let the thief get away!"

Hearing the angry clerk shout, Koharu froze. The man was clearly upset and she wasn't sure if she could talk to him without a firm suggestion.

"Well, then. How about I compensate for what the child has stolen… sir?" Arthur said with a grin, "It would seem that she's only one of the many starving on the streets and you do have a job to do. What did the child take?"

The clerk froze before he shook his head with a sigh, "She stole about five apples and dropped one more along the way."

As the two adults negotiated the price. Koharu watched on clearly impressed by the man who spoke much about justice and evil. When the talk was over and the two helped pay for the number of goods stolen, Arthur groaned as the man walked away, "To think that I would mistaken a pack of screws for coins."

Koharu strained a smile, "W-Well, maybe if we look on the bright side, you still had some money in your purse."

"You're right." Arthur smiled, "And, thank you for helping me pay for the rest."

"Your welcome." She replied with a small smile, "But, are you sure you're all right? You just got hit by a carriage…"

Arthur nodded with a confident grin, "Oh, I'm all right, Lily. Really. This happens all the time."

"All the time?!" Koharu gasped as they made their way back to her home.

Arthur nodded with a laugh, "I'm afraid luck have never been by my side for as long as I can remember. Ah, but don't worry yourself about me! No matter the odds, a hero must stay strong in the face of evil!"

Though she wasn't too certain of the words coming from his mouth, Koharu slowly nodded her head regardless.

When they arrived at the house, they were met by the princess and one of her retainers. Elise jumped and hugged the two as soon as they closed the door behind them, "You're back!"

Arthur reported, "We finished solving the matter with the clerk, Lady Elise."

The princess smiled wider as she said with a smirk, "That's great! We helped take the little girl back home too. So, she's safe too. See? We were able to solve the problem! Thank you so much for helping us, Effie, Arthur!"

Before the retainers could respond, Cassita walked in with a smile, "Now, if the four of you are done now, I've prepared some tea for everyone."

Koharu looked up in surprise as she knew that Cassita wouldn't usually have tea as much as they wish they could. The woman grinned, "I've heard that you've all had quite an adventure today. So, I believe tea is in order today."

Koharu smiled, "Thank you, Cassita!"

It was almost two or three before Elise had left the house to return to the castle with her retainers. As she had already finished her chores and returned to her room, she noticed a voice as she closed the door behind her.

"To think that Elise's brother and sister would reach to the neutral city of Izumo. Oh dear, I do hope the two do return to Lady Elise's side soon. She just seems more lonely by the day…"

As she heard this, she slowly made her way to her bed with a troubled frown as she muttered to herself, "Elise was getting so lonely…"

Hearing this, she was suddenly reminded of her previous years living on the hill in the countryside away from civilization. How she spent all her years just tending to her chickens and the gardens, reading the books left by the traveler, and managing all her personal matters on her own. She's only known the princess for three days now and hearing that she would be lonely in a castle with five other siblings and two retainers were surprising.

"Perhaps, there is more than one form of loneliness?" She assumed to herself thoughtfully, "But, Prince Leo is on a mission and the crown prince must've been very busy too. But, what about her older sister? The first princess? Maybe, she's busy too? But then…"

As she thought about the infamous king of the kingdom, she shook her head. She knew the king would probably be too busy with his conquest. Thinking about this now, she knew that Elise must've been so lonely in the castle all on her own, especially when she heard that Elise's class is a healer, but what about the servants, like Flora? Speaking of which, she has yet to hear what has become of her new friend. As she thinks this, she notices a small piece of paper sticking out from under her pillow. Carefully, she pulls it out and reads it.

Dear Koharu,

I've heard much about you from my dear younger siblings, especially our youngest, Elise. My apologies for my absence from the North Fortress. I had some urgent matters to attend to. How about we have a little chat over some tea? As I have some time to myself tomorrow, I shall come down to the underground city tomorrow. Oh, but do keep it a secret from my dear siblings and the other townspeople. I shall send one of my retainers down by your home tomorrow afternoon. They shall escort you to the place where we shall have our tea. Please remember to hand this note to Cassita. I'd advise that she make certain this letter is burnt completely to ashes and disposed of. I truly hope to have our tea and chat with you tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Elise's big sister

Camilla

Koharu narrowed her eyes as she saw the name, "Ca…milla? That sounds very familiar…"

Her eyes widen as she gasped, "Wait! Elise's sister? Then, she must be a princess too! That's right. I recall Elise and her siblings said that one of them was unable to make it to the meeting. That must be her. The First Princess..."

Then, she frowned, "I've had tea with Mikoto and Nanami before all the time, but I wonder what will we be discussing of at the tea party?"

After some pondering, she shook her head, "Maybe I should give this to Casita now. But, I wonder how did it get under my pillow?"

---

When there was a knocking of the door the next day after seeing Elise and her retainers off again, Koharu was all ready to go with one of the red dresses with the white apron and a red hood. With it, she truly felt like the main character from the Little Red Riding Hood tale. As Cassita opened the door, they were greeted by a familiar face.

"Selena!" Koharu gasped with a bright smile.

"Shh! Quiet down!" The red hair woman whispered harshly, "This is a secret, remember? We can't always take you around on a tour, you know?"

"R-right. S-sorry…" Koharu responded.

Cassita smiled, "Well, I'll leave her to you, then. Koharu, you be careful, you hear? And, make sure you stay with her."

Koharu nodded, "Yes, ma'am!"

With that, she waved back to her as the two began to make their way to where Elise's sister would be waiting. Koharu followed Selena through the bustling streets and it wasn't long before they soon came upon a cute looking café. Upon entering, Koharu saw the natural wood walls and elegant classical lamps. The interior had cute circular white tables with cute rectangular ones along the walls divided by wooden benches. Selena spoke with one of the workers and they were soon brought to a room on the second floor. The moment she took a step inside, she saw a slightly larger table with a tall woman sitting on one of the white chairs sipping a cup of tea. She has wavy purple hair, black armor and a strange looking tiara on her head. Koharu could also see a large ax behind her. Standing off to the side was probably one of the other retainers as she heard that each of the siblings have two. She had straight blue hair in a bob cut, similar black armor, and a black headband. Behind her was a similar looking ax as her liege. As she walked in, the women looked up and saw her as Selena bowed, "I've brought her, milady."

The purple haired woman smiled and set down her cup, "Thank you, Selena."

With this, the red hair retainer moved aside as Koharu nervously took a step forward. The purple haired woman smiled and gestured to the other seat on the other side of the table, "Please have a seat."

Koharu nodded nervously then walked over and sat down on the white chair. She looked around nervously as the woman said, "Hehe. There's no need to be so nervous. Have some tea."

"Th-Thank you…" She said as she saw that a cup of warm tea had already been placed before her.

After taking a sip, the woman began, "Shall we start with a small introduction? My name is Camilla. I'm the first princess of Nohr. Oh, but you may better know me as Elise's big sister."

Koharu nodded, "M-My name is Koharu."

"Koharu." Camilla nodded with a smile, "Thank you for spending time with her these past few days. The three of us have been very busy with the war for the last few days. It's a pity, but we just don't have as much time to spend with her as before the war occurred."

"I-It's not a problem." She replied with a small smile, "Elise is a really nice and it always fun when she comes by."

Camilla chuckled, "Yes. She always loves to play games. However, please keep her presence here a secret to the castle. Nobody, but me and our retainers know that she's here in the capital and I'd hate for her to stay in the dark environment of our castle."

Koharu frowned curiously, "Is it because of the darkness?"

Camilla shook her head, "There are some that are affected, but it's mostly because our castle isn't that safe for a young girl like Elise to spend all her time in. There are also some minor issues within our home that I don't want her to be exposed to."

Uncertain of what the problem may be with the feeling that she shouldn't dig too deep into the matter, she slowly nodded. Camilla smiled, "So, I heard that you come from the kingdom called Japan?"

Koharu nodded, "Japan doesn't really have a kingdom anymore, I think. I did hear that there was in the past."

"No kingdom?" Camilla raised a brow, "Then, how does the government run?"

Koharu shook her head, "It's really complicated, but I heard that it's made up of a lot of people. So, a group of people works together to run a government? I think that's how one of my friends taught me it."

"You're not even certain of your own government?" Camilla raised a brow, "Speaking of which, I did hear that you lived independently since you were young. Was there nobody for you to socialize with, such as a local village or town?"

Koharu shook her head, "No. Before the traveler used to do that for me, but, after he left, the people from the village would send me food."

"They send you the food?" Camilla looked to her in confusion, "Why not go down in the village yourself?"

Nervously, Koharu strained a smile, "Well, I'm not really welcomed in the village…"

Slowly, Camilla's eyes began to widen. She then nodded with a smile, "I understand now… Koharu, what do you think of Nohr's capital?"

Koharu smiled, "Well, this place is very big. So much bigger than the last couple of towns I've been with my friends for the first time. There so many things that I've never seen before. The people are also very kind too! I really like it here!"

Camilla chuckled, "I'm glad you like the capital too."

"Are all capitals this big?" Koharu wondered.

The Princess nodded, "Many are. I don't know about our neighboring countries, but I believe that Nohr's capital is the largest I've been to."

"Um, then what about that capital above us?"

"That's a part of Windmire too." Camilla smiled, "However not many travel above ground. Not in the cold weather. Instead, most nobles travel the surface than the rest of the citizens here. That's why the surface isn't as full as underground. It shelters the people from the cold weather."

Koharu slowly nodded, "That's really amazing. I've never heard that such a place could exist underground…"

As they sipped their tea, Camilla spoke up, "Still, how do you know how to act and read, Koharu? You live by yourself, am I right?"

"Yes." She replied, "There were books that the traveler brought with him every time he returned from his travels. Aside from fairytales, there were some about etiquette, herbs, livestock, and encyclopedias. I was also given a dictionary for words I didn't know about."

"So, you taught yourself?" Camilla smiled, "That's very impressive."

She blushed, "I-I don't know about that. I mean, the traveler helped me at first before he left."

"This traveler," Camilla raised a brow, "Do you know who he is?"

Koharu shook her head, "No. He never told me his name, but he helped me a lot, even to giving me a name."

Selena suddenly started coughing before she quickly stopped herself with some water, "M-My apologies, milady."

Camilla nodded understanding her personal retainer's reaction and turned to Koharu, "Koharu, I don't mean to intrude into anything that's personal, but why did he give you a name? Don't you have one from your parents?"

Hesitantly, Koharu shook her head, "I-I think so, but I don't remember what it was anymore. Though the traveler gave me my name, I haven't been called it since the day he left on a long journey."

"Not called by your own name?" Camilla frowned before she slowly nodded, "I see, then did you have anything to keep you company? Like a dog or a cat?"

Koharu nodded, "I raise some chickens back home and a lot of books to read from. So, when I finish my chores, I usually go and read."

After some tense minutes, Camilla slowly nodded with a grin, "It sounds like you like books a lot."

Koharu nodded with a relieved smile, "Yes! I read a lot of the fairytales books that the traveler gave me and the encyclopedia at home!"

Camilla chuckled, "Even the encyclopedia? My, that reminds me of Leo now."

"Prince Leo likes to read too?" Koharu's eyes widen, "Is it because he's a mage?"

Camilla shook her head, "No. I think it's just that he likes magic and reading a book of battle strategies. We call battle strategies tactics. Those who excel at the subject and uses them in actual battles are called tacticians."

"Tacticians…" Koharu said thoughtfully, "I never knew that there would be a job like that. The countries I know are all kept in control by The World."

"The World?" Camilla raised a brow, "Can you tell me a bit about it? I've never heard anything called The World before."

Koharu nodded, "I only know that it's made of many people who work together and connect with each country to promote peace. They ban illegal weapons and acts as a negotiator between countries at war."

"That's an unusual organization." Camilla raised a brow, "But, they also ban illegal weapons? That's unusual. As far as I can recall, Nohr has only banned certain magic and knowledge."

"W-Well, the weapons that they banned is like a shiny metal device that shoots out these tiny shaped metal." Koharu explained nervously, "I don't know as much, but it's like… um, an arrow and a bow!"

"An arrow and a bow?" Camilla raised a brow.

Koharu nodded as she made hand gestures of the partially small device, "The device is the bow and the metal parts are the arrows, but, instead of pulling back the string, the person has to pull back this 'trigger' to let it go. But, when it does, a loud sound goes off and the metal piece goes very fast. I've seen it being used once and it almost hit my friend. But, I couldn't even see where the metal part was… a-and, well… um, I'm sorry, but this is the best that I could describe it…"

Camilla shook her head, "It's quite all right, Koharu. But, I'm curious. How could something so small become so deadly?"

Koharu shook her head, "Well, one of our friends who has one said that it has something to do with this 'gunpowder' and explosion. But, it shoots the metal part really fast and it's strong enough to kill a person in one hit if it goes into the heart or the head."

Camilla nodded with narrowed eyes, "I see. Hm… So, what are these weapons called again, Koharu? And how did this friend o got by with one?"

"They're called guns." She answered, "Our friend had one from the start. Then, when they joined us, Th World gave him permission to use it but with tight restrictions and conditions."

After a couple seconds, Camilla nodded with a smile, "I see now. Thank you, Koharu. Just for precautionary measures, do you know how far can the weapon reach?"

Koharu shook her head, "I'm not sure. The last time I saw it used, it was about… three meters away? The enemy wanted to come after us, so he tried to close in on us. It was thanks to my friends that we were able to escape, then."

"I see. That must've been a very terrifying situation for you to be in." Camilla said with a nod before she smiled, "But, you don't have to worry here since we don't have such a scary weapon like that here."

Koharu smiled and nodded, "It seems that way. Thank you, Princess Camilla."

Camilla chuckled, "You're welcome. Now, let's talk about other minor matter, shall we? Like… Oh, does your country have wyverns? I heard that only certain parts of the world have such beautiful creatures."

"Wyverns?" Koharu raised a brow, "Um… are they like magical creatures?"

Camilla's smile grew wider as she chuckled, "Something like that. Though I do think they are. Oh, where to start?"

---

It's already been a day since the invasion of the Nohrian soldiers. Since then, Mikoto has continued to keep the barrier up with her powers as she worked with Hideki to help protect the villagers from the cold and escort them with Prince Takumi's two retainers. As she carried the box of blankets and brought it over to where Hideki stood with one of the volunteers passing blankets to the townsfolk seeking refuge. Oboro left Hinata guarding the other side of the line of refugees and came over to her through the wet ground of melted snow, "Kuga, you should take a break. It's been hours since you've had your last break and you're also the only one keeping the barrier up. There might not be any attacks yet, but it could happen at any time. You need your energy before, then."

Mikoto looked between the lines of townsfolk carrying bundles of their belongings and the barrier she had put up over this part of the capital.

"You go take a break, Kuga." Hideki said with a nod, "I know that you want to help us, but you are only human. There are sometimes when we make mistake and when we need time to regain our strength."

Mikoto thought carefully before she slowly nodded, "I understand. Then, I shall go rest for a bit."

Hideki and Oboro nodded before she walked to the front door of the clinic and looked up at the barrier she created with a sigh. It's certainly been a while since she last made a barrier of this size. She was even more uncertain for how long she could maintain this barrier against the attacks of the enemy. Izana had said that she and the prince were destined to aid some chosen individual on their quest and, now, the archduke and her supposed ally have both been caught by the enemy. She wasn't certain of their fate, but, if she were to put a priority, it would have to be the lives of the townspeople before them and hope that nothing much worse has fallen upon the two. As she thought that, she noticed Hinata walking over with a stretch, "Finally, done with my shift!"

"Good work." Mikoto smiled as the man came by and leaned back against the wall of the clinic.

Hinata grinned with a thumbs up before he looked back up at the castle. Mikoto frowned, "Don't tell me you're thinking of going to rescue archduke and your charge alone when this is all over."

Hinata nodded, "Of course, I am. Lord Takumi and the duke must've been locked up somewhere. Oboro thinks that they wouldn't harm him because milord and the Archduke are royalty. That just means that we still have the chance of finding him while we still can."

"Oboro too?" Mikoto's eyes widen, "But, that's…"

"Don't worry about a thing!" Hinata said with a grin, "We'll return with Lord Takumi and the Archduke!"

---

As Nanami returned, she noticed a familiar figure making their way over to her. Her eyes widened, "Princess Azura, good morning."

The songstress smiled, "Good morning, Nanami. Are you ready for the journey to Izumo today?"

Nanami nodded her head as she recalled the conversation. Kamui and his siblings decided that it would be best for her and her friends to stay in Izumo, which is a neutral kingdom that has stayed apart from the war for many years. As it would continue to do so, the royal family thought it would be best for them to place the espers into the care of the Archduke of the kingdom. Though she was uncertain, Kamui added immediately that he also wanted Muroboshi to stay with them until the war was over. Despite Kamui being uncertain as well, Azura seemed quite confident that it would be all right in doing so. Nanami was sad to hear of their departure from the group, but, since this decision was made for their safety, she agreed to the idea as did the rest. Nanami nodded, "I've already packed my things for the move."

"That's good." Azura nodded with a small smile, "It'll be lonely without you around, but it'd be good for you and your friends to remain in a safe place while we try and end the wars outside."

"That's true." Nanami replied before looking out to the lake and the archery, "Is Muroboshi still practicing archery?"

Azura looked up with a frown, "Hm… I don't know. However, I've heard that he's been there more often Sakura has. I hope he doesn't tire himself."

"He won't." Nanami replied, "He told me that he'd take a break before the march."

"Really?" Azura looked to her in surprise.

Nanami nodded, "Um… Princess Azura, why has Izumo been able to avoid the war when the Wind Tribe and the Fire Tribe allied themselves with Hoshido?"

"I'm not too certain either, I'm afraid." Azura answered with a frown, "The Kingdom of Izumo have avoided the war ever since it had begun. They worship under a god, I heard. Not a dragon like ours. Perhaps, that's the reason why? However, with the wars intensifying, it'll be hard to continue their neutral stance if Nohr invades it, which is why we're going there to see if they are still able to hold their ground against the war while looking for some answers in regards to the Seal of Flames."

"The Seal of Flames?" Nanami raised a brow, "What's that?"

Azura shook her head, "I don't know too well, either. However, it's said to hold the key to stopping the war from continuing."

"I see."

Azura raised a brow and turned to Nanami, "Oh, Nanami?"

She looked to her as the princess continued, "Yesterday, one of your friends came by and told us somethings about tomorrow."

Nanami frowned, "Who was it?"

"It was Sakuya."

Nanami thought carefully before answering, "If it's something about danger, then you should probably be careful."

"Is he able to foretell the future, like Hoshido's onmyouji?" Azura assumed with a frown.

Nanami nodded, "I don't know as much and it seems that he doesn't know when it happens, but he can predict what would happen pretty well."

Azura frowned, "Then, it would seem that we'll have to keep our guard up tomorrow before we leave, then."

"That would be for the best." Nanami concurred.

Azura sighed before she smiled, "How about let's try and speak of something else? I'll talk to Kamui and Corrin about it and make sure that they're prepared for the worst case scenario as well."

Nanami nodded as the two continued to speak of some minor things, such as Nanami's encounter with some fruits in the garden last night and Azura's discussion with Kamui. The two chatted as much as they could knowing that this could possibly the last they would see each other before the army continues on their journey from there.

---

As Nanami took her first step on the land of Izumo, she looked up and saw the many tall hills and housing on pillars. She shuddered upon the resemblance it had to the villages back in her country. As they could see a large castle sitting on top of the tallest hill, Corrin was the first to speak up with awe, "So, that's Izumo's central palace. There's something… calming about it."

Nanami nodded in agreement as she watched the setting sun with skies of orange and purple bloom across the sky.

"Yes." Azura concurred with a smile, "Izumo has long been known as the kingdom of the gods. It only makes sense that the center of its power would radiate peace. While all the other kingdoms quarrel, it maintains a neutral stance. I'm glad we made it here safely. Let's go find the Archduke."

"All right." Kamui nodded, "He should be within the central castle, correct?"

Azura nodded, "Since we didn't notify him of our arrival beforehand, I think it'd be better to request an audience with-"

Sakura gasped, "A-Azura, he's here!"

As she said this, they stopped and turned as they saw a lone man walking to them. He had long silver hair with a gold crown that went around his head from behind, a traditional gray Japanese clothing, and a strange red mark on his forehead. The man smiled, "I am Archduke Izana, first heir to the divine bloodline, descendant of the gods, keeper of prophecies, and winner of best hair… five or six times? I forget. It's so nice to finally meet you! I imagine your journey here was quite difficult. Time to kick back and relax!"

His mannerism left many stunned as Heishi whispered to Nanami, "Hey, is this guy really royalty? He's so laidback."

"Somehow, I'm going to have to agree with you there, Hei." Kagami replied with a frown.

"Izumo is a wonderful place. You could stay here forever!" Izana smiled as he said this.

Kamui strained a smile at the overwhelming welcome, "Th-Thank you very much for such a warm greeting…"

"Oh, it's nothing! You know, I'm really glad you came! I rarely have company." Izana replied with a bright smile, "I'm so excited. I hardly feel like myself!"

"I don't understand…" Hayato grimaced in bewilderment, "Why is he being so informal? Is this how all major leaders of the world are meant to behave?"

Sakura shook her head, "No, they don't normally act this way. He's just… a special case."

Kagami petted Hayato on the shoulder, "Or you can just accept it and move on. There are many abnormal things in life, after all."

Corrin smiled, "At least, we don't have much to worry about. Izumo seems safe, at least."

Kamui nodded before turning to the archduke firmly, "Pardon me, Archduke. We actually came here to ask you some questions."

"Oh?" Izana smiled, "What about? Ask away, my friends! If you've got any good gossip to share, I'd be ever so pleased to listen!"

"We were wondering if you could share what you know about the Seal of Flames." Kamui questioned with a nod.

"Huh? The seal of Flames?" Izana frowned, "That sounds pretty boring to me. I don't bother remembering dull things."

As he said this, Nanami felt a slight tug on her shoulder as she looked up and saw that it was Muroboshi and Kagami. She turned around and saw that all of her friends have suddenly become slightly agitated and nervous, even Hayato seemed to have become concerned from their expression and taken a step back. Muroboshi muttered under his breath, "Stay behind me. Something's not right."

"You think so too, Ron?" Kagami frowned, "Sakuya told me the same thing just now. I don't know if he's right, but I'd be careful."

"So, you as well, young man?" Gunter spoke with a curt nod, "Then, I advise that you and your friends stay behind the army. Muroboshi, prepare yourself. I shall go help my lieges."

Suddenly, they notice the archduke looking to the leader nervously, "I don't bother remembering dull things."

"I… see." Kamui frowned, "Just when I thought we were going to catch a break too."

"Hey now, don't look so disappointed!" Izana grinned, "I've prepared a feast for you inside! You should eat, drink, and be happy while there is still time to do so!"

Azura frowned, "Wait. Are you sure you don't know anything about the Seal of Flames? The fate of the world may hang in the balance."

"Grr…" Izana pouted childishly, "I said I've never heard of it!"

"Of course you haven't, you imposter." Gunter spoke as he strode up to them on his war mount with a lance at his side.

"What? You're calling me an imposter?" Izana narrowed his eyes and strained a smile, "After I've prepared a feast for you all?"

"Don't be coy with me." Gunter scowled, "It's plain to see you're hiding behind a magic illusion. Reveal yourself!"

Upon the shout, Nanami was suddenly flung into Heishi as Kagami quickly retreated and Hayato stepped up. Seeing this, Izana smiled, "Ah! Gunter, you're no fun at all!"

Suddenly, smoke surrounded them as the 'Archduke' vanished behind it. Soon before them stood a man with a crooked smile in a red and gold jester-like hat, short blond hair, and attire of a red mage Nanami had seen once on the battlefield nearly a week ago.

The man laughed, "Eeheehee! It's been a while, hasn't it?"

"Zola." Gunter scowled, "I knew it was you behind that magic!"

They looked to the retainer with surprise as Azura spoke up, "Gunter, who is this?"

"This cretin is a Nohrian mage." Gunter explains, "He specializes in illusions and deception."

Corrin grimaced, "But… Then, where is the real archduke?!"

"I'm afraid it's off to jail for him," Zola smirked, "The clink, the slammer, the cooler!"

Suddenly, his grin widened as he continued, "Oooh, cooler! That reminds me…"

Out of nowhere, he pulls out a large spherical shape as he said, "It's time to make use of King Garon's ice bomb! Everyone, fire! …Hehe, fire the ice bomb…"

As he laughed upon his own pun, They could quite do the same as a mist of white suddenly appeared from the soldiers that emerged out of nowhere. When it came through, over towering piles of snow had covered their view from the field before them. Kamui grimaced, "This must be what Sakuya meant… Get ready, everyone! Heishi! Nanami! Take your friends and stay behind the army. It's not a good time to call out Lilith to bring you back right now."

Azura frowned, "It's incredible... They've done something to encase the entire town in ice. We'll have to break through. The enemy is probably using this ice as cover. Be careful!"

Hayato smirked as he saw Subaki revel the enemy with a single blow, "I'll show them what I can do."

Suzuhara sighed as he said, "Try to be careful, Hayato. It's hard to see where the enemy is, after all."

The teenager grimaced before he made his way over and summoned out two flame foxes and took out the enemy ax man. Nanami's eyes widen, "That's magic too?"

Kagami nodded with a chuckle, "Well, they said that Hayato is the prodigy in magic. It's a good thing he came here with us."

Hayato frowned as he turned to them, "Right. You mean, the village chief told you to follow me."

Before the two could continue their conversation, Corrin shouted, "Kamui! Look! What's that?"

As the prince looked up from his fallen opponent, he saw what looked like a dome consisting of pentagon shapes. Seeing this, Nanami's eyes widen, "That power…"

"Oh?" Muroboshi smirked, "Like what do you know? The barrier girl came out all right."

"Who?" Sakura tilted her head with a frown.

"Mikoto!" Nijou exclaimed with a grimace and began to rush his way into the snow before he was held back by Kagami.

The man gave him an unusual stern look that Nanami have rarely seen as he spoke, "We get that you're worried, but, if you rush out, then the little lady will be the one in tears and, personally, I don't want to see a lady cry, if that's all right with you?"

The young boy next to him nodded, "Moreover, we're in the middle of a war. You could get killed if you rush out now."

Nijou glared at Kagami before he slowly let out a sigh and nodded as other soldiers rushed past them to the next fight. Leaving the orders to his twin, Kamui hurried over with a grimace, "Mikoto? Is she the friend you spoke of with abilities similar to our mother?"

Suzuhara nodded, "Yeah. She's always used her ability to protect the ship."

Concerned, Sakura looked to her older brother who frowned, "Then, we have to go and save her."

"It's fine." Muroboshi said with a smile, "Hate to admit it, but the girl is pretty strong. If you really want to help her, then we should finish this battle as fast as we can."

"Huh?" Sakura frowned, "How is that?"

"The lady must be protecting that part of town with her life on the line again." Kagami sighed, "She is quite the stubborn one. I guess it would make sense to finish this battle first."

Nijo frowned, "I'm concerned if she plans to do something reckless in the midst of this battle. A need for such a large barrier must mean that she's protecting more than just herself."

Kamui frowned, "Then, the sooner we end this, the faster we can go save your friend. Let's hurry!"

---

Mikoto has been moving the boxes of herbs alongside with Jirou, who seemed rather silent and focused on his task for the first time. Honestly, it impressed her seeing him like this. It would seem that he does know how to get the job done when needed. It would probably be best not to tell anybody else that she was the one who erected the barrier. Remaining quiet, she looked back up to her feet as she came across what looked like a white bird.

"So, the rumors were true…"

The two turned and saw Hideki brushing against his beard as he looked up, "Word goes that Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin of Hoshido would arrive."

"Prince Kamui? Princess Corrin?" Mikoto frowned before her eyes widen, "Of Hoshido?"

Hideki nodded, "The second prince and second princess of Hoshido. It was said that they were kidnapped whilst the former king was assassinated, then raised in Nohr as their second prince and princess."

Jirou grimaced, "Weren't they exiled from Hoshido? What are they doing here?"

Hideki sighed, "In search of our duke's assistance most likely. I see… So, it's today. Regardless, they're no enemies of either kingdom. Word spreads. The royal twins have begun to move independently saving outskirt towns and villages indiscriminately. Now, Princess Sakura has been said to have joined their side."

"What?" Jirou scowled, "Just what are they trying to do?"

"To save us all from the wars, most likely." Hideki sighed, "From their movements, such a goal will be no small feat to accomplish. The risk of becoming enemies of all kingdoms are very high as well, yet they come after exiled from both kingdoms."

"Both?" Jirou raised a brow, "Nohr exiled their own royal family?"

"Did I not say that the prince and princess have been labeled as traitors to both kingdoms?" Hideki replied as it was his turn to raise a brow.

Jirou sighed and shook his head as he walked away and mumbled, "I don't get this anymore…"

However, Mikoto remained as she looked back up to what looks like a white horse with wings now. Hearing the old man walk closer, she asked, "Could they be…"

The old man sighed, "Perhaps. Perhaps not."

Eyes wide, she turned to the old man, "You knew?"

Hideki nodded, "The archduke spoke with me about the situation after I decided to hire you. I knew that it would be unusual to recommend an assistant with now knowledge of herbs and we are very close years before I retired as one of the castle's healers and still is."

He then turned to her, "If you ever feel that it is time for you to go. Do what you must, Kuga, but remember to look after yourself as well. From our short time, I learned that you certainly have a strong sense of justice and compassion that comes with it, but it won't help anyone if you don't look after yourself and have friends beside your side. Sometimes, just having your abilities just isn't enough to protect those around you. What you need then is your friends, Kuga. Remember this."

Taking in his words, she slowly nodded with a frown, "I understand sir. But, my comrades aren't beside me now. None of them are…"

"None, but me."

---

As they drew closer to the towering building that was clearly a castle, Nanami saw Kamui grimace as he called out to the army, "We're almost there now! Keep it up! Hayato! Take out the piles of snow! Hana! Rinkah! Get ready for the attack!"

Following his orders, Hayato summoned two more foxes and destroyed the pile of snow while coincidentally knocking out an enemy soldier. Revealing there to be two opposing soldiers, Kamui and Muroboshi quickly took out the enemy mage as the girls rushed in and killed the other swordsman. So far, the militia has been able to push back the enemy army led by Zola, an illusion mage. It was rather unusual to see a war fought using swords and weapon that wasn't guns, but, with her friends' help, she and the other younger espers have been able to avoid the battle to the best of their ability. Nanami has lost a couple of her kunais, but it didn't really seem to matter to her as their lives and their protector's lives were all on the line. The white snow was dyed red with blood and ground littered with the bodies of the enemy soldiers. Though it was a horrifying image, her friends helped pull her through with the others from the flashbacks. With the fighters busy with the battle, Nanami and her friends busied herself with evacuating and freeing the townsfolk from their imprisonment in their own homes. It didn't take long before she finally noticed what looked to be a tall shrine gate before them with stone a stone pathway free from the piles of snow. Kamui sighed in relief, "Finally! Hurry! We have to go save the Archduke!"

Without thinking twice, Nanami ran after the soldiers as Heishi grimaced, "You'd think that all this running would be over… by now. Phew, I wonder when the prince will need my powers again?"

Nanami frowned, "Heishi, are you sure that you're doing this because-"

"Yeah…" he replied with a firm nod, "We're all going for the same cause after all. And, I might as well do something if I'm not gonna be of much help in the out realm."

Nanami was confused, "But, we've all done the best we can and you've also helped them as well, Heishi. There's really no need to put yourself in any more danger."

Heishi grimaced, "Well, I'm not really to good with the work we've been doing so far and I can't really fight either. The only thing I'm good at is blowing my flute."

"That's-!"

"Guys, let's talk about this another time." Kagami cut in with a frown, "It seems we've arrived at our stop."

It was as he said. As she looked up, she saw that they've already arrived at the castle and was now storming through it. Nanami and Heishi took care to stick with their group in the back of the militia seeing that staying with either the town or outside the kingdom was not really a good idea. As she rushed in, she saw the fine wooden floor and elegantly designed patterns of paper on sliding doors. Large wooden pillars and some ornament in gold. It truly felt like she was in a royal castle. Probably, even more so, if she had not been running desperately after the others in a rush. Making their way up the steps, Hana and Felicia quickly swung open the large double doors to reveal a large room before them with the deceptive looking mage before them.

"We've won." Corrin announced firmly, "You can't escape now, Zola. Tell us where the archduke is!"

The mage sneered, "Ha! You really think it'd be that easy? What a naïve little boy you are. I always have an escape plan!"

Uncertain, Kamui grimaced, "What are you-?!"

Out of the blue, the mage darted across from them and snatched one of their allies before pulling them over to his side with a sly grin, "Ha! Look at me and my adorable hostage!"

"Princess Sakura!" Hana gasped with horror.

"Kamui! Corrin!" the pale-red hair princess shouted desperately.

"Sakura!" Corrin exclaimed in disbelief.

"Let her go, Zola!" Kamui shouted with a grimace, "Are you really going to stoop this low? Do the honorable thing!"

The man smirked, "Pfft to your honor! I'd rather win than be honorable! After all, the winner is the one who writes the history books!"

Saying this, the mage brought out a knife from his belt and brought it to her neck, "Now, put down your weapons! If you don't, the girl-"

Suddenly, there was a sudden loud crack in the air as something snipped past the man's face.

"Eek!" Zola jumped back startled as smoke rose from the wooden door behind them.

Doing so, he also released the princess as a familiar looking barrier formed around the princess.

"Smart choice, but I can think of a better one."

"True. He could've just run if he hid his hostages already."

Nanami's eyes widen before she turned around and gasped, "Mikoto?"

Muroboshi smirked, "So you're still alive, huh?"

"That's the Fujin Yumi!" Corrin gasped, "That means… Takumi! He's here?"

Before them stood two familiar figures. One of them being a woman slightly older than Nanami, but in the same uniform she had arrived in, long black hair, a white ribbon much like Nijou's tying back a few strands of hair, and holding a very familiar looking bow. The other was a tall man with short pale-green hair, green eyes, white trenchcoat, a grey and black suit, black tie. However, what stood out the most was the silver object smoking in his black glove hands. Corrin's eyes widen upon the familiarity of the object, "Is that… a gun?"

Kamui frowned, "Not right now, Corrin! Sakura-!"

There was a sudden bright lit behind them as they saw that the mage was somehow before them as another gunshot ran off and blood came from the enemy's shoulder suddenly. The mage screamed as both the light grew brighter and blood slowly flowed making the hole in his shoulder more visible. Finally, the man fell before them and remained motionless. Kamui muttered in disbelief, "It can't be… That magic…"

The sound of hooves over wood sounded as a blond hair teenage boy on a horse and both in black armor passed them smoothly till he stopped before the corpse and muttered bitterly under his breath, "You were the lowest of the low, Zola…"

From the sound of the familiarity the voice held against the dead body, Nanami drew closer to her comrades.

"Hiding behind hostages." The man frowned, "You disgraced the entire Nohrian army."

However, Kamui and Corrin smiled in relief.

"I knew it!" Corrin said with a wider grin, "I knew it was you, Leo!"

"Thank you for saving Sakura!" Kamui added.

Despite the words and reaction of the twins, the man remained silent. Nanami was uncertain of the situation that suddenly seemed to have gotten tense as Kamui's expression stiffened, "Leo… Will you join us? We could use your aid in the battle ahead."

Corrin nodded firmly, "We don't plan to fight with Nohr; I've learned of a dire truth…"

Finally, the man opened his mouth, "What are you talking about?"

Kamui nodded, "After we refused to side with Hoshido or Nohr, we learned that King Garon… He is being manipulated by someone."

"What?" Leo raised a brow, "How do you know this?"

"Listen carefully." Corrin said, "He didn't want to start this war with Hoshido. He's being controlled by our real enemy. Someone hiding behind the scenes."

Kamui nodded, "This invisible foe is who we should really be after."

"Invisible foe?" Nanami narrowed her eyes in confusion as she saw that her friend's was filled with confusion.

"I see." The mage said with a frown, "Well then, tell me who is pulling the strings. Name the manipulator!"

"I'm sorry, Leo…" Kamui shook his head with a grimace, "I can't say who it is."

Nanami's eyes widen as she saw that his sister nodded in agreement.

"Unsurprising." Leo sighed as he shook his head, "I don't know why I wasted time listening to your ramblings."

Corrin shot up with a frown, "Leo, please! Wait! I can't say anything now, but-"

"You're a traitor." Leo said with a nod, "I don't want to hear your excuses."

"What?" Corrin grimaced, "You still don't believe that I have the best intentions?"

"Let me make this as clear as I can…" the mage said firmly, "You have abandoned our family, and I have extended you the same courtesy. I no longer think of you as my brother. Got it? I only came here to clean up that vile mage. You and I will settle our differences some other time."

Suddenly, the man flipped open his purple tome as another barrier was formed around them just in time to block the intertwining branches coming at them.

"Kamui! Corrin!" Azura rushed over to them in a panic.

The twins slowly got up as Kamui spoke up, "Don't worry, Azura. I'm fine. I don't think he was aiming at us."

Saying this, Corrin walked over to the broken double doors as she said with a nervous frown, "The door to that banquet hall has seen better days, though…"

"Go on, Kamui. Corrin." The mage said with a sigh, "The real archduke should be inside."

"And the prince?" the gunman spoke up watching the enemy.

The mage smirked, "Along with the pathetic Hoshidan prince, Takumi."

"What?" Kamui's eyes widen, "Do you mean- Wait! Leo!"

However, the man suddenly banished before them as he had appeared.

"Leo…" Corrin frowned.

"Kamui! Corrin!" Sakura called out to them, "The banquet hall is filled with people! They've all been tied up!"

"You can't be serious!" Kamui looked up in bewilderment.

"Hinata! Oboro!" Mikoto gasped.

As she and the gunman rushed past them, she called out to her comrades, "We'll be right back!"

"Huh?" Corrin raised a brow, "But, I thought they were here for Takumi and the archduke?"

Like them, Nanami was just as confused.

---

After setting all the hostages free, Nanami saw Mikoto return with the gunman. Seeing this, Kamui looked up before walking up to them with a nervous grin, "Greetin-!"

"You're here! You're here!" A very familiar man spoke up approaching from behind the two with a big grin, "You've finally come to rescue me! Thank you so much! You really saved my life! I'm absolutely starving! My tummy has been rumbling for hours now!"

Nanami's eyes widen as Corrin asked nervously, "Are you truly the archduke of Izumo?"

"Why yes! That's me! Archduke Izana, first heir to the divine bloodline, descen-"

"Um, we already know, sir." Nanami interrupted.

Kamui nodded with a grimace, "Sorry, Archduke, but we've kind of already heard this…"

"Even the hair part?" he inquired."

Everyone nodded as Kamui answered, "Yes…"

"Awww…" the man pouted.

As Mikoto sighed, Sakura noted nervously, "H-He's even more informal than the imposter…"

Upon hearing her voice, Izana's face lit up, "Ah! The fair Princess Sakura! I believe your brother is around here somewhere. He was left in a situation similar to my own. I can only imagine how hungry he is now…"

"Takumi really is here?" Sakura's eyes widen.

Just as she said this, Takumi appeared as he approached the group with his bow back in his hands. Sakura smiled and jumped at her sibling, "Takumi! I'm so glad you're safe!"

"Sakura?" the prince's eyes widen upon seeing his sibling until he noticed his other siblings with her, "And… Kamui, Corrin, and Azura. What are you all doing here?"

"Well…" Sakura answered, "I decided that I would fight alongside Kamui and Corrin."

"What?" he narrowed his eyes in confusion, "Sakura, you've turned against Hoshido as well? Ryoma is going to be devastated…"

"No, I h-haven't!" Sakura argued, "Neither has Kamui and Corrin! No one here has, actually. None of us plan to fight against Hoshido. They said there is something much worse than Nohr's aggression going on. He can't explain, but I trust him. Takumi, p-please… trust them too!"

However, the archer remained silent with hesitation.

"Takumi…" Kamui said nervously.

Mikoto remained quietly as she heard her friend sigh and shake his head.

"Natsuki…" She scolded quietly in a whisper.

"… Fine." The gunman sighed with a small nod, "But, if he doesn't, then-"

"Hmph…" the archer said, "You'll have to excuse me if I don't find this flimsy explanation acceptable. Sakura may believe in your story. I don't."

"I see…" Kamui said with a grimace.

Mikoto grimaced as she notices her friend take a step forward.

"Nononononono!"

Mikoto was relieved upon hearing the duke's voice reject the prince's answer.

"Ahhh, this won't do! This won't do at all!" Izana announced with deep disapproval, "You've got it all wrong, Prince Takumi!"

"Huh?" Mikoto's eyes widen, "He's gotten it all wrong? What do you mean, Duke Izana?"

"Exactly." Takumi raised a brow, "What are you talking about?"

Izana grinned, "I'm not going to go into all the little details, but basically- join your siblings. That's what the gods are telling me! Just got some prophetic stuff from them!"

"Huh?" Takumi grimaced in bewilderment, "Something prophetic again?! I can't believe that important prophecies just… happen all of a sudden like that."

Mikoto sighed as she saw that it was another one of the duke's little antics again. However, the man pouted, "Hey, who's the keeper of prophecies here, you or me? They come as they come. Would you really ignore directions sent down from the gods?"

"You know, you say that but…" Takumi stared at the man in disbelief, "How can I choose to side with someone who won't side with his homeland? Of course, I grateful they saved us, but… I just can't trust Kamui and Corrin."

"Jeez, you're one tough net to crack. What am I suppose to do with you?" Izana sighed as he shook his head exasperatedly, "I don't like breaking out the big bows, but if a little extra prophesizing is needed… Well, Prince Takumi, that's just what you'll get!"

Saying this, the Duke quickly called forth his servants with directions to bring forth a certain object. As they rushed off, he turned to her, "Oh! And, Mikoto! You and your friends are leaving with Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin as well."

"Huh?!" Mikoto's eyes widen upon hearing his words, "You mean, they're the ones…? Wait, I thought you said one?"

Izana grinned, "Well, I was never told how many or who it would be. Your friends are here too, right?"

As Mikoto slowly nodded while looking at her comrades, Takumi's eyes widen, "You know these people, Kuga?"

Mikoto nodded, "Yes, they're my friends and comrades I was separated from and this is one of my friends too. His name is Natsuhiko."

Upon introducing her friend, Kamui narrowed his eyes, "I see… If you don't mind… About your weapon… Is that a-?"

"Yeah, it's a gun." Muroboshi answered with a grin, "It's fine. Lucky for the guy, he was given permission to keep his weapon on him."

Izana frowned, "He… doesn't have an ability…"

The gunman narrowed his eyes, "How do you know that I'm not an esper."

As his hand slowly moved to his gun, Mikoto grimaced as she spoke sternly, "Natsuhiko! Please don't. He most likely already knew since he brought us here?"

"Wait! It was him?!" Heishi's eyes widen upon hearing this, "No way! How did you do that light thing and brought us here? Are you a mage too?"

Izana laughed, "Oh, I'm a mage, all right! But, I didn't do that! That was the gods who did that."

"The gods?" Heishi frowned in confusion, "Uh… are you sure that you're not a mage or an esper?"

Izana shook his head, "Nah. The gods just thought that additional help was needed to save our world. So, they brought you from your world to ours!"

"Uh… What?"

Mikoto sighed, "This is going to be a long story, but please just listen to me."

Like this, Mikoto went on to explain the situation to her reunited friends as her words seem to have brought further confusion and bewilderment and she wasn't too surprised by that. When she was done, Nanami frowned with deep concern, "So, we're in another world?"

Muroboshi chuckled, "That's quite some story there."

"She's not making it up, Ron." Natsuhiko replied with a sigh, "I'm going to have to agree with her on this."

"Oh?" Muroboshi seemed to have raised a brow under his sunglasses.

"Our world doesn't have Pegasus or wyverns." Natsuhiko answered bluntly, "In our world, they don't exist. Not them. Not griffons or these large birds. Not to mention we no longer have knights or monarchy in our world. They're all from stories and history books. The beasts are also nothing but fairy tales and myths there too."

He glanced over to Subaki's Pegasus as he grumbled, "If I hadn't seen one up close, I wouldn't have believed that they were the real deal too and that includes magic. That doesn't exist in our world, but fairytales."

Takumi grumbled, "No knights? What kind of world is that? Who's going to protect the people without-"

"We no longer need them when people can just recruit others regardless of their profession and arm them with these things." He replied as he patted his gun with a sigh, "And because of that, everything, including the safety, could be thrown out of the window by abusing technology to this extent."

Mikoto nodded, "Basically, chaos. A weapon created to protect others was placed in the wrong hands and is now used for war rather than to protect. Which is why they're banned in our world."

Izana sighed, "Yes, dark matters of your world. That seems to be the exact reason why the gods want you here as well."

Kamui's eyes widen before they narrowed, "Wait. During the previous battle between Nohr and Hoshido, there were a few shots that rang out much like today."

"There was?" Takumi's eyes narrowed as he frowned, "But, I don't remember hearing that before."

"Me neither." Sakura nodded with a frown, "But, there was proof. Kaze was gravely wounded because of the attack from the fourth party."

Kamui nodded and turned to Natsuhiko, "You wouldn't-?"

"Happened to be the culprit?" Natsuhiko replied with a sigh, "No. I wasn't."

"No," Kamui shook his head "I'm meant to ask if you knew who the culprit may be. We were already notified that Nanami and her friends know someone who wields a gun and have knowledge of it. So, I thought you may know who it was since they don't."

Natsuhiko frowned, "I have an idea, but I doubt he'd be here of all places. And, if we don't get back soon, he could start a massive nuclear war while we're gone. He is a weapon dealer too and someone I must kill."

His stern sentence brought shivers to some and concern as Takumi frowned, "And, your alibi? How do we know that it's not you? You're the only one here with that… thing right now."

"Because I wasn't there." Natsuhiko replied with a sigh and turned to Kamui and Corrin, "I was where they were."

Kamui raised a brow as Corrin gasped, "You mean?!"

Natsuhiko nodded with a sigh, "I was at the bottom of a ravine for nearly three days before I saw you arrive and heard everything. To be unable to speak about it is the most nerve wrecking thing I've had to do while coming up here."

Then, he turned to Takumi and spoke coldly, "If you weren't going to go with them, then I don't really care. But, if it was really required, I'd just drag you along with them if needed."

Hearing this, Takumi scowled, "Wh-?!"

"Now, now!" Izana interrupted with a big grin, "My crystal ball is here, so if I may have your attention please?"

He turned to Mikoto and Takumi, "Now, be sure to listen well. I can only do this once."

Before either could respond, Izana placed his hands over the orb. To their surprise, the orb lit up as the unseen light began to absorb into it from their surroundings. Suddenly, Izana began to speak in an unusually calm voice, "Everything is not yet seen… The truth is far and hidden low. The one upon the water's surface, he who knows all is the true foe… and the giver of the world is his newest victim…"

Suddenly, the man let out a sigh as he grinned, "Whew. There ya go. The gods really want to speak to you, Prince Takumi. Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin are not your enemies."

"Then, who is?" Takumi frowned, "What was Sakura saying a moment ago… That they know something about our supposed enemy?"

"Yes." Kamui answered firmly, "I can't explain it all now, but what Archduke Izana says is true."

"We came to Izumo hoping to find a way to defeat our mystery enemy." Corrin added with a nod.

Izana smiled, "Oh, that's right. You were going to ask me about the Seal of Flames."

He sighed and shook his head with a frown, "I'm sorry, but I don't know a thing about it."

"How could you possibly know what we were going to ask about?!" Corrin gasped in disbelief.

"Premonitions! Prophecies! Haven't you been paying attention?" Izana laughed, "Even though I can't help you with the Seal of Flames… My family does have a saying that's been passed down for generations. 'We will show they who shuns the light and the dark another way.' So there you have it!"

"What does that mean?" Azura questioned with a frown, "Are Kamui and Corrin the ones who shun the light and the dark?"

"I think so!" Izana answered with a grin, "Thus I need to show you a new path. If you'll excuse me, I'll go hold a little ceremony and ask an ancient god for help."

"Uhhh… Right now?" Kamui asked in bewilderment.

"Yep! Fortune favors the bold! Strike while the iron's hot! Carpe whatever!" Izana replied with a grin, "I want to get this little ceremony over with, in any case."

Then, he adds with a frown, "Ancient gods aren't exactly easy on the eyes."

As he walks away, Azura spoke up, "I hope he returns with some sort of helpful clue to all this…"

"I'm sure things will work out." Kamui replied, "Let's have faith and wait here for him."

As they remained silent, Takumi noticed he's supposed comrade whispering to her friend, then rushed off after the duke. He narrowed his eyes, "Just what is she doing now?"

As he says this, he took a glance out the window and saw a large dome shape cast over the large part of the capital. The part where she worked in. Takumi's eyes widen, "Wh-what's that outside?! The snow doesn't seem to have reached there."

Kamui took a quick glance before he nodded, "Ah, that's a barrier that Mikoto created over the town. Is that correct, Nijou?"

The silver-haired man nodded, "That's right. Even back in… our world, she was tasked with creating barriers for those who sought her assistance since we were young and that includes the barrier around our ship when we traveled."

"H-How big is your ship, Nijou?" Sakura asked nervously as Corrin had the rest of the army rest just outside the castle.

"This ship we're on is about…" Sorata sighed, "Forget it. It's just much much bigger than this place. It was created for a big purpose after all. Or that's what I was told."

"What?!" Sakura gasped, "Then, is it bigger than Hoshido?"

Sorata grimaced, "I don't really think so. Just this capital."

"That's still quite big." Corrin commented with a frown.

"But, she's been holding up the barrier from day to night without end." Nijou said with a nod, "As long as she gets rest and doesn't strain herself too hard, she can hold up the barrier for a very long time."

Takumi sighed as he shook his head, "So, this is what she means, huh… So, what exactly are espers? I heard you call yourselves that."

"Well…" Kamui frowned and turned to Nanami, "They're people with abilities and, since they're from another world, I guess they're the only ones with such abilities?"

Natsuhiko nodded, "Ah, there's no such thing as magic in our world. So, they're the only ones with abilities and we call those with abilities espers."

"Kuga too?" Takumi raised a brow as Natsuhiko nodded in response, "Izana said that he prophesized that you'll be helping us in the war. How are you going to do that? With your abilities?"

"I don't see any other way." Natsuhiko replied with a sigh, "Each Esper has one certain ability after all. So, aside from Ron, everyone else here has abilities."

Subaki's eyes widen and turned to Nijou, "Could it be that you used your ability to find Nanami?"

As they looked to him, the man hesitated before he finally nodded, "I suppose it's no use hiding it now…"

He sighed and shook his head with a grimace before he continued, "My ability is to predict the future. However, unlike Kuga, I don't have complete control over it, so I could see the future from time to time, just not whenever I wish for it most of the time. Like the both of us, our abilities require stamina to be able to use it."

Kamui's eyes widen, "That's why you warned us about the battle. But, you never told us that it would be when we arrive in Izumo."

"I didn't know." Nijou shook his head, "When I look into the future, I can only pick up parts of my surroundings. There was a battle, but I couldn't tell where it was. All I knew was that we were fighting and that it was very cold. Since the word Izumo continued to appear, I knew that it'd be around this time, but I thought it'd be after you leave the kingdom."

"I see." Kamui said with a nod, "And, Heishi, your ability is telepathy, correct? Is there a reason why only you were able to tell us your ability?"

"Hey now! Some of us don't quite enjoy sharing our secrets as much as others would." Kagami spoke up with a grin and sighed, "It makes some of us uncomfortable, you see."

"Ah. I'm just used to mine." Heishi replied with a wide grin, "It's quite helpful at times though, right?"

Corrin nodded with a smile, "That's true. You really helped us spread our words to the militia, today. Thank you again, Heishi."

Azura nodded, "Then, for now, let's not talk about who has what ability, but, if you could, you can help us whenever you wish. Is that all right, Kamui, Corrin?"

"A-ah." Kamui nodded with a smile, "Seeing that you don't really have any combat skills, I'm not going to push you into helping us, especially since you don't seem familiar in war. But, if you do, I'm going to ask that you be careful on the battlefield. It's no place for those not trained in combat as we have. You too, Ron. You've gotten better with the bow, but it'd be of little use if you hurt yourself badly or worse. You're used to using guns as your weapon, correct?"

"Got it…" the man replied with a small grin.

Suddenly, Nanami noticed her friend returned and made her way to Takumi before handing him a piece of folded paper, "Prince Takumi, Izana wants to give this to you. He told us to read it after we leave Izumo."

"This?" Takumi raised a brow as he placed it into a pocket before noticing Mikoto doing the same, "You have one as well?"

Mikoto nodded, "Yes. Do you perhaps know the reason why?"

"No…" Takumi replied with a sigh, "I don't really understand him sometimes."

Mikoto frowned before looking back to the hall, "I don't know, He seemed quite sad when he left to the ritual room…"

Natsuhiko sighed before his eyes widen, "Wait. What kind of ritual is he performing?"

Mikoto shook her head, "Just one where he meets with an ancient god…"

"That's…" Natsuhiko frowned, "If we go now, maybe it'd be too late…"

"What do you mean?" Kamui said with a frown.

Natsuhiko shook his head with a sigh, "Forget it. If we go now and interrupt it, it could make things worse. If magic exists here, then I don't know what else could possibly occur in this world. Anyway, Mikoto, your barrier is still up. You don't need it anymore, right?"

She looked out before she slowly nodded, "I suppose you're right. The danger has already passed. I don't see any more reasons to keep it up now."

As she said this, the barrier slowly trickled down to the ground disappearing into bits of light as Hinata said with a grin, "Man, this still amazes me whenever I see that."

"Right…" Takumi sighed, "So, are you and Natsuhiko going to join my siblings?"

Mikoto's eyes widen, "Yes, but aren't you coming as well?"

Takumi frowned, "I don't know, but…"

Natsuhiko glared at him as the prince glared back, "And you can't make me come with you as you like, either. I get to decide what I want to do!"

Sorata sighed with a frown, "And, who's the squabbling children now?"

---

It was close to the afternoon when they were suddenly called from their rooms to the banquet hall.

"S-sorry to have… kept you waiting." Izana said with a grimace.

Mikoto's eyes widen as Corrin gasped, "Archduke, what's wrong?! You look exhausted!"

"I had a chat… with an ancient god…" Izana explained as he tried to steady himself on his feet, "But, even I don't understand it… It's so short, too… 'Go meet the dragon.'"

"A dragon?" Kamui frowned in confusion.

Mikoto grimaced, "D-Duke Izana, you should take a seat… You look like you'll collapse at any minute now!"

However, the Duke shook his head with a strained smile, "It's all right, Mikoto. Just let me finish talking to them. Prince Kamui. Princess Corrin, I'm sure you'll figure it out eventually… I really really hope you do, too. After all, I think I may- Owww, ow, ow… Yup, definitively gave my life for the message."

"What?!" Mikoto gasped.

As he collapsed, they rushed over as Kamui quickly caught the duke, "What! You're dying? How did this happen?!"

Natsuhiko grimaced, "I was afraid of this. Hey, what did you give in return for the meeting? A sacrifice or something?"

"Well, the ceremony I performed always requires something in return." Izana replied weakly, "Every message has a prince, and the cost of this one was my life. I'd really like it if a bard wrote a nice song about my noble sacrifice…"

"Your life?" Natsuhiko grimaced, "There's still such a sacrifice like that here?"

"Duke Izana!" Mikoto grimaced in disbelief, "Even now?!"

Izana chuckled before looking up to the archer, "Oh, Prince Takumi… I know I asked before, but… Make sure you help out your siblings, OK?"

Takumi grimaced, "But… I…"

"What, you're still not willing?" he pouted, "I'm dying here, and you're still unsure? Listen, if you don't… I'll come back as a ghost and haunt you. All the time. Boo."

This time, Takumi's eyes widen as he frowned, "Archduke…"

Izana nodded before turning to Mikoto and Natsuhiko, "Kuga. Listen… the ancient god told me to tell you this… 'Go with the chosen ones and find the dragon.' Perhaps… If you explain to them your situation… you'll know more about you and your friends must do…"

As Mikoto slowly nodded, Izana sighed as he slowly closed his eyes, "Well, I said what I needed to say… Bye… bye…"

It didn't take long before the once flamboyant and joking man was unusually silent and still. Mikoto's eyes widen upon seeing someone die for the first time. Noticing this, Nijou hurried up to her but was stopped by Natsuhiko, who shook his head. The silver-haired man glared at him and was about to take a step forward had Kamui not spoke up with confusion and frustration, "Why didn't he tell us this would cost him his life? Why?"

Their youngest sibling, Sakura, had already started to weep tearfully before them as Nanami could only look on with wide eyes. She couldn't tell if she was sad or not, but she already knew that she was very very afraid of the future, especially knowing that she and her comrades are being asked to fight on the frontlines. Would they end up like the Archduke as well? And what would happen to her and her comrades? No. The World is who would tell them when to fight, but, if they were in another world where the World is not in control of, who should they follow? The words of their gods? Does it even exist? This is still reality, right?

"Giving up his life for the good of everyone. He was an admirable man." Gunter noted with a frown.

Placing the body down carefully, Kamui grimaced before looking around and, upon seeing everyone and the corpse of the former archduke, he shook his head, "I'm so sorry… This is all my fault. If I hadn't picked this path, the archduke wouldn't have died like this…"

"Me either…" Corrin grimaced, "I didn't realize the cost of our goal, as right as I believe it to be…"

"You must keep believing in it." Takumi interrupted firmly, "Don't waste his sacrifice."

"Takumi…" Kamui's eyes widen.

"Listen." The archer began, "I'm going to help you accomplish your mission. I'll fight with you. After all, it was the archduke's dying wish. So, I'm coming along… Brother."

Corrin's eyes widen as Kamui slowly smiled, "Thank you, Takumi. I won't let you down!"

Upon seeing this, Natsuhiko glanced over to the retainers with a sigh, "And? What about you two?"

"Well, if Lord Takumi is going, I guess we'll have to go too!" Hinata replied with a wide grin.

"Yup!" Oboro nodded firmly, "I'd sooner die than be separated from Lord Takumi."

Kamui's eyes turned to them, "Um… And you are?"

"Huh? Oh, right! We forgot to introduce ourselves!" Hinata grinned wider, "The name's Hinata! I'm one of Lord Takumi's retainers. I'm skilled with a katana- if I do say so myself. You'll like having me in a fight!"

"My name is Oboro." His colleague answered with a grin, "My name is Oboro. Like Hinata, I am a retainer to Lord Takumi. If at all possible, I'd rather not interact with the Nohrians. But if we are to be allies, then I will do my best to cooperate…"

As they were slightly taken aback by her sudden dark and grim expression, she quickly added with a smile, "For Lord Takumi's sake."

"All right…" Kamui said with a small smile, "We're glad to have you with us."

Corrin nodded with a grin, "That's three more- I mean, five more valuable allies."

Kamui glanced over to the body of the Archduke and said, "Thank you, Archduke Izana. This is all thanks to you. We promised to never forget the sacrifice you have made for us."

---

After bidding Hideki and the townsfolk she came to know farewell, Mikoto followed her new comrades out of the capitol for the first time and into the outside world. The events that followed after the archduke's death was unusual. Hideki suddenly appeared and revealed that he was already told of what might occur with his old friend. From there, the burial and process of the next in line was made as according to the will left by his friend. It wasn't too hard to convince her friend to join them on the journey than to go out and act on his own. As they traversed the wide open plain with the red sun to their backs, they finally came to a stop at the entrance of the woods. Kamui nodded, "We'll return to the astral realm for the night, then."

"The what?" Takumi raised a brow.

"The astral realm is another dimension, much like another world where the war has no influence on." Corrin explained with a smile, "Ever since we left Nohr, we've been using it as our main base when we're not battling."

Mikoto could only raise a brow and frown when the archer looked back at them after checking with his other siblings. Kamui chuckled nervously, "Maybe, it'll be better to just show you, then. Lilith!"

A bright light suddenly appeared as the small Koi-like dragon appeared before them. Mikoto gasped as Takumi was already reaching for his bow before Corrin placed a hand on his shoulder with a grin and said to the little dragon, "Lilith, can you take us back to the castle? We also have some new additions to the army. This is our younger Hoshidan brother, Takumi, and these are his retainers."

"We also found two more of Nanami's friends." Kamui said with a smile, "We'll introduce them to you when we return. Takumi, this is Lilith. She used to be human and worked as a stable girl when we were in Nohr for a period of time. Events occurred and she became an astral dragon with the ability to travel through realms. She's also a really good friend of ours and followed after us when we were taken back to Hoshido."

Takumi slowly nodded, "I-I see…"

The dragon smiled and bowed a little on her orb as she spoke, "G-Greetings, sir! You all wish to return to the castle, right? I'll get it done immediately!"

As she said this, a bright light flashed as they were soon blinded by the light. At the same time, Mikoto felt arms wrapped around her as she braced herself against the brightness. As the light faded, she opened her eyes only to find herself within the walls of a large castle ground. Natuhiko raised a brow before letting her go, "Where is this?"

"That's what I'd like to know as well." Takumi concurred with a frown, "Kamui, is this the main base you talked about? It looks like as if we're in a castle, not a camp!"

Corrin chuckled, "But, it is the base camp, Takumi."

Kamui chuckled, "Oh, but I don't know about our tree house as a tent…"

Their words only brought more confusion as Azura sighed with a grin, "I think you're enjoying yourself a little too much here, Kamui."

"You're right." Kamui nodded with a nervous smile, "I suppose showing Sakura around just wasn't enough excitement."

"Then, while everyone is settling back down, I'll give our sibling and our allies a tour around the camp." Corrin said with a smile, "If you want, you can tell Lilith about what happened in Izumo, so she's caught up with the change in plan."

"Change in the plan?" Takumi frowned, "What do you mean?"

Kamui frowned, "Well when we heard that Izumo was a neutral kingdom that has retained their peace for a long time, we were hoping to leave the espers in the archduke's care until the war was over, but…"

Takumi's eyes widen as he slowly nodded with a grimace, "But, he's gone and the capital was attacked by Nohrians. I see now."

Corrin nodded, "That's why we're going to have them stay with us instead as the archduke told us."

Kamui grimaced, "But, I don't know about putting them on the battlefield. Aside from Ron, none of them have been trained in combat. We already said that we don't want to put those who can't defend themselves on the battlefield. That's why we're going to have to hold a private meeting about this in the war council room."

"I got it." Takumi frowned, "Then, I'll be there too. That's after you show me where the room is…"

Corrin gave a small smile as she nodded, "Right. Let's start with that, then. Mikoto and Natsuhiko, was it? You should follow us as we go on this tour. I'll show you to your room as well."

Kamui strained a small grin, "How about you ask Felicia to do that or she'll start worrying over us again."

Corrin sighed with a small nod, "Well, I suppose you're right. Then, I'll just show you around, then."

As Mikoto was about to leave, she suddenly felt a small tug on her sleeve as she turned and saw her friend, Nanami, who asked in a hush whisper, "Mikoto, have you seen Koharu since you arrived? I haven't seen her since I got here."

Mikoto's eyes widen and slowly shook her head, "N-No. I haven't seen her either. I've been cooped up in Izumo for nearly a week now. If I'd have seen her, she would have to enter Izumo first."

After some thoughts, a possibility came across her as her eyes widen, "Oh no. You don't think she'd be in Nohr, would you?"

Upon her words, Nanami's eyes widen, "I hope not. That place doesn't seem safe from the rumors…"

"Then, what about Masamune?" Mikoto brought up quickly, "He's usually around to make the decisions and what we should do."

Nanami shook her head, "I haven't seen him either. Their whole team is still missing."

"Oh, my…" Mikoto grimaced, "Koharu, I hope nothing bad comes to her…"

---

It was night when Camilla returned from examining the lake where it was secretly reported with sightings of the boy her brothers and their retainers saw. Upon knocking on the wooden door and informing who she was, the door was opened as she entered and saw their eldest sibling working on another report from his last expedition to a town on the outskirts of the borders. As he passed the paper to Laslow, the prince turned and nodded, "So, how is the situation with the boy?"

Camilla sighed, "It's the same result. We lured him out, but he dove right into the lake and hadn't appeared for hours. Now, I can see why it has gotten Leo so upset."

Xander strained a small grin, "Well, he was rather motivated into capturing him."

Camilla giggled, "Yes, he was. But, I can already see that even our little water boy has a limit to his powers. When we went in, he used his powers like Leo said, but, when Beruka went in again, he ran off and didn't attack us after he reached the waters."

"I see." Xander nodded, "Leo also spoke with her for information about him. If he's really a friend of the girl, I'd like to know what he was doing in the castle ground."

"Speaking of her." Camilla said with a frown, "I was able to get some interesting facts about our sheltered little girl."

Xander raised a brow as Camilla continued, "It would seem that the name she's using right now isn't her real name. Even more unusual, she no longer remembers her real name."

"What?" her brother narrowed his eyes in suspicion, "So, her name isn't the one we know now and she doesn't remember it? Just how is that possible?"

Camilla nodded with a grimace, "From what I was able to piece together from our little chat was that she must've been exiled or ostracized from the town she lived into the point where the people don't refer to her by name. She said that nobody has called her by name for a long time."

Xander frowned, "Adding that she had lived by herself since she was young… Yes. That does seem to make some sense now. But, how did she come across her current identity?"

Camilla frowned as she answered cautiously, "She told me that a traveler, who saved her, gave her the name and her clothing with specific instructions when she was young and disappeared after that. Considering that she was only a child then, anybody who came by to help a poor child in that situation would see them as their savior. She most likely hasn't realized how bizarre it is for help to suddenly come to her then leave her."

Xander thought to himself before he slowly nodded, "That would bring a bit light to her situation now. But, the question now is why was she pushed away from the town and what of the rest of her background?"

Camilla shook her head, "It would seem she no longer remembers anymore than that. But, Xander, if that boy has the ability to control water, wouldn't that also mean that she would also have some sort of power too? Perhaps that could explain the reason for her exile. I would like to know why the townspeople still decide to care for her by sending materials to her."

"They still took care of her?" Xander raised a brow, "Something is really unusual around her… and I believe that traveler has something to do with this."

He nodded, "Then, I shall go check on the lake myself tomorrow and see for myself who this boy is."

"You're going to the lake?" Camilla's eyes widen before she smiled, "Well, now. I hope you can come up with something in this game of cat and mouse."

---

Not long after their talk, Camilla walked out of her room as she hummed sadly to herself, "I suppose it's still not the right time to bring up word of them yet… Oh, dear Kamui and Corrin. Why did they have to leave us? Soon, it'll be time when we may have to battle against one another… But, will I have the will to kill my own siblings? If only they hadn't left the Northern Fortress…"

---

YueTian: Hey, guys! It's been a long time! I had a long hiatus and a loss of motivation for some time. Plus the study for GRE and a part-time job as a class tutor was really difficult. I'm still working on stories and I already have drafts for Blossoms, Sky's Fate, and possibly a short story of one chapter on Cardcaptor Sakura (Not Clear). It was hard getting my head back into the game with reality is just so difficult to keep up. I hope you all understand and forgive me for my long hiatus as I try to finish up my other chapters. Also, for those on Sky's Fate, I apologize for the long chapters, but it has just become a habit for me now to write so much on the story. I can promise you, for better or worse, that it won't always be sixty pages long. I do intend to continue my stories, but I'm having second thoughts on Questions and Reasons. Simply because it was just a really cringy first fanfic that I was using to try and find my way in this realm. In any case, I'm going to put this up as fast as I can and hope that my writing of this fanfic crossover has gotten better than the previous. Also, I am going to go back and fix any errors I might possibly have on my story. I hope you all enjoyed reading this chapter though! See ya!

Mikoto: Hey! What about the meeting that was scheduled in this chapter? What is going to happen to us?!

YueTian: It's 2 pm. I have an idea, but I need to sleep for now. I still have class tomorrow and more studies. Good night…

Mikoto: *Sigh* Oh well. I suppose putting it off for now due to time is a logical reasoning, b-but YueTian better put it up in the next chapter! I won't be able to sleep well without knowing what would happen to our own fates…