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.)

6. Chapter 6: Pursuit

Pursuit

It's been a few days since she last spoke with Camilla. Koharu wondered what the princess thought about her. She find the party and their conversation to be really fun. She never thought that the princess would have so many travels either. After they talked about Koharu's home and country, Camilla went about discussing a lot about wyverns and Pegasus. Mythical creatures that she only read of in fairytales turns out to be real in reality! It was all a wonder for her. She even got to share some of her experiences of her hometown and the silly things she now found really funny than embarrassing. The books she read and the animals she saw outside of her home. In exchange, the princess told her many things about her siblings and her adventure outside the capital followed by the silly things her younger siblings do sometimes, such as Leo's habit of wearing his clothes inside out whenever he was in a rush or still drowsy or how Lisa was always so bright even when the castle would be gloomy at times. It was hard to see the mage making careless mistake so often, but she did recall their last meeting and felt that it really might be just as she says. It also wasn't too hard to imagine Elise running about in the halls with flowers in her arms. Camilla also spoke of how Nohr was always known to be as dark as night and that their neighboring kingdom, Hoshido, was the one blessed with the light of the sun. To Koharu, it was amazing to hear of such places, but she couldn't help, but wonder why her friends never knew of such a place or that she never read about this kingdom before. Today would be a day like any others at least. Elise showed up at the door today and the two had a great time selling flowers to the people. Koharu was now at ease talking with the people around her more so than before. The people never avoided her nor did they speak ill of her. Some were willing to buy flowers from her though hesitant at first, and it always made her relieved and glad that they decided to do so, since it would wilt without an owner and Cassita doesn't really have much time to tend to the flowers as they would start showing signs of wilting the very next day. It was probably near the afternoon when they returned to Cassita's home. They were busy chatting over how their business went when she noticed how much quiet Elise was compared to the day before.

"Princess Elise?" Koharu said hesitantly, "Is something the matter? You seem really quiet today…"

Elise looked up in surprise before she strained a small smile, "Oh… Well, it's just… I heard that my sister is going out to battle again…"

"What?" Koharu's eyes widen in surprise, "But… Isn't your brother going to be back soon?"

Elise nodded, "Yeah. But, father said that he wanted to do something like beat Big Brother Kamui and our sister. I don't know a lot, but Camilla said that she was going to leave for battle and I think it's going to be against them. I don't want them to fight again. Lately, father has always been really scary after they left."

"That's…!" Koharu was speechless upon hearing the problem.

She had heard rumors of the king of this kingdom, but she never knew that it would be as bad as this. She wondered what could've happened to lead the family down this path.

"I'm sure that Lady Camilla will be all right."

They looked up and saw that it was Cassita looking to them with a grin, "She's always been very strong, milady. You know that too, right? Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin were also trained by one of our best knights and the crown prince, I'm sure that both sides will come up with something."

After some thoughts, Elise nodded with a bright smile again, "You're right! Nobody can beat my siblings and Kamui and Corrin don't really enjoy battling a lot either. Maybe they can come up with something and come back together!"

After hearing Cassita's words, the princess's spirits returned as they continued talking about their day and of some fond past. When she left, Koharu cleaned up the dishes before she walked out to the small living room. Cassita was dusting the fireplace as Koharu called out to her, "Um… Cassita?"

"Yes?" The woman turned around with a smile, "Is something wrong?"

"I…" She hesitated, "I was wondering why the king would want to have his children fight against each other?"

Cassita sighed and set the feather brush onto the small table as she strained a smile, "Well, Koharu, the king wasn't always like this."

As she took a seat, Koharu followed as she tilted her head, "He wasn't?"

Cassita nodded, "He was liked by the people a lot before when he was younger. A strong leader who fought on the front lines with his soldiers and cared for the people. I recall that he always doted on the children as well. Of course, Lady Elise was too young to remember, but he was also a leader to the kingdom and a father to the royal families' children."

"Really?" Koharu's eyes widen, "But, how did this happen? Did something bad occur?"

Cassita nodded, "Yes. Though young, the first queen, Queen Katerina, passed from an illness. She was the crown prince's mother. The king was so overwhelmed with grief then that he swore that he wouldn't marry again."

"Then, Elise's mother died?" Koharu questioned in surprise, "But, then…"

"No." Cassita shook her head, "Elise's mother was one of the king's mistresses. You don't hear of them now because known on them lived to this day. Jealousy and greed for power and the king's attention led to the result and Princess Elise's mother was one of them. I recall that they had other siblings beside the four of them, but they didn't live through the fight between the mistresses. It was a horrible time in the castle and was the result of the king's mistake when he was younger. So, aside from the crown prince, the other children's mother were mistresses. How they were treated I never knew the full story and I won't go into detail of Princess Elise's mother either. Fortunately, Princess Elise was only able to remember near the end of that time. Only she and her current siblings lived amongst the other children and all the mistresses."

"That's so horrible!" Koharu gasped in disbelief.

Cassita strained a smile, "Not all places are like fairytales, Koharu. Luckily, you weren't here during that time and Lady Elise is too young to remember. But, after the event, the internal battle was then known as the Concubine War. It was a tragic time in the castle. Many children were pulled into it and some never came out alive. However, during the battle, there was another turn of events. The king and the royal family has a tradition of visiting a concert hall once a month or so and, during those days, he came across a performer who has such a wonderful voice matched with beauty and a talent in dance. Her performance on stage caught the king's attention and it wasn't long before we ended up having another queen, though he swore he won't marry again."

Cassita's smile grew as she spoke, "I was one of those who used to serve under her, you know. She was stunning and had a very kind personality. Her voice was so beautiful and it would fill the entire castle. Her name was Queen Arete. And that was a lot like a fairytale ending."

"Wow…" Koharu smiled, "That's amazing!"

Cassita nodded before she sighed, "But, of course, tragedy struck again not long after. Queen Arete fell ill soon after and eventually passed. Having lost his second wife, the king seemed to have lost himself in it for a period of time. Since then, he seemed to have changed most likely to protect the kingdom and the royal family by ruling the land with a stronger iron fist."

Koharu was silent as she couldn't help but pity the man who have lost two of his wives in two different short periods of time. Koharu then asked, "But… why have them fight against his own children?"

Cassita sighed, "I don't know the entire story, but, while Princess Elise was still young, Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin came into the family. This was shortly after Queen Arete passed. The rumors were that the king hid them from the castle to protect them from the Concubine Wars, but there were others who claim that the king had, not just killed Hoshido's Former King, but even kidnapped the two children from him. It was really confusing, but, after they were kidnapped to Hoshido and were unscathed, it's believed that the king may have kidnapped them when they were younger. Oh, it must be confusing then… I mean, they lived their entire lives as the king's children and were even protected from the Concubine Wars. But, what's really confusing was after their first arrival."

"After their arrival?" Koharu questioned.

Cassita nodded, "Yes. Not long after they arrived, King Garon's stepdaughter, Princess Azura, was suddenly kidnapped by the Hoshidan spies who infiltrated the castle. The action sparked anger between the kingdoms, but the people were even more outraged when they heard that there was an offer to trade her back for the siblings, but the king refused it."

"What?" Koharu gasped, "Why?"

Cassita shook her head sadly, "Even, I don't understand. It was probably because they really was his children that he didn't want to risk losing them too, but Princess Azura is Queen Arete's daughter from her previous marriage. When her mother became Queen, Azura was accepted by the king as his daughter. It's a mystery why such a thing happened. But, nobody dare to question his motive as we all knew he was a stern ruler. Even now, Princess Azura is still in Hoshido and nobody knows of her whereabouts or condition."

"That's so sad…" Koharu frowned.

Cassita nodded, "The King's abnormal behavior is also the reason why Princess Elise and her siblings brought you here in secret. You see, foreigner isn't welcomed as much by the nobles and is held in high suspicions by many. Even the king would have to hold some for the safety of Nohr. It doesn't matter as much to many of us down here since some of us aren't even from this continent, like you. But, your appearance and name is so similar to our neighboring kingdom that we have to keep you hidden here. If you were before the king, he would have you in a cell right away. However, his children believe that there are some exceptions here and kept you a secret from him. Only the children of the royal family and their retainers know of you and they are wary of letting their father know about you. So, while you are still here in Nohr, Koharu, make sure that you continue using Lily as your name. It's for your own safety. If they ever find that out, you have to change it again until you are in a safer place. I'm sure Princess Elise and her siblings will try to lend a hand, but remember that there are times when even their persuasion won't move their father, Koharu. If that happens, do what you can to flee this place."

Hearing the words out of her mouth, Koharu trembled in fear finally knowing the weight of her presence in these land as she anxiously questioned, "But, what about you, Cassita?"

Cassita grinned, "I'll have my way out myself, you know! Don't worry about me. I have my connections and you can't live in these lands without them. I've lived here for all my life and know that since young. You just worry about yourself, Koharu. I heard that the king's retainer is a smart tactician. So far, I don't think anybody has gotten past him before. If he were to be on you, your only choice is to think of the impossible and run. We don't know if it would work since nobody returned to tell of it, but you have to be on your guard when that happens, understand?"

Koharu slowly nodded as tears begin to creep out the corner of her eyes. Cassita patted her head as she quietly scolded, "Now, wipe those tears away! Crying in Nohr won't help you survive here. Sareh once told me when she was younger that her mother always told her that, if you have time to cry, you have time to think. Of course, I don't know if that's true or not, but she's come this far on her own. You must too. You have a bright head on you, so I'm sure you'll think of something. Now, help me finish dusting the shelves over there in the corner!"

Koharu nodded again and wiped her tears away trying to feel braver as she still shivered in fear.

---

Azura and Kamui had just left the War Council meeting and was taking a stroll by the lake as Azura strained a smile, "That was quite a long meeting."

Kamui let out a sigh, "Yeah… But, thanks to Takumi, we have more ideas on how to adapt to certain situations. Huh, is that Nanami and Heishi?"

Sure enough, by the lake was Nanami on the grass as Heishi played a little tune on his flute. Impressed by the music, neither could say a word as they listen to the soothing melody. By the time it ended, Nanami looked up and saw the two. Seeing this, Azura smiled and Kamui waved as spoke, "Again, you really are talented with the flute, Heishi. It really does help after the long meeting."

"Haha! Thanks!" the man grinned.

Nanami got up and politely bowed, "Good afternoon. How was the meeting?"

"It went well." Kamui smiled, "Thanks for asking. I'll speak with your friends later, but we've talked with Takumi about your role in this war since very few of you can take part in the battles. He also agreed with us that you shouldn't be on the battlefield with your situation, regardless if that was the reason you were brought here."

Nanami frowned in confusion, "Then, what shall we do?"

Azura shook her head, "We don't know yet, but, for now, it'd be better to stay out of the enemy's sight. If Nohr's king hears word of you and your ability, he could come try take you away and use you."

Kamui nodded, "Fortunately, we are going to stay away from Nohr's territory as much as possible. At most, we'll just be in the neutral territories. But, that doesn't mean that it's completely safe in Hoshido with Nohr's soldiers invading these lands. I'd tell you what to look out for, but I'll explain that to you a little after. Just stay in the astral realm unless we bring you out, all right?"

Nanami nodded as Heishi grinned, "Yes, sir!"

Seeing the man's optimism, Kamui's face loosened with a smile, "Good. It's almost time for lunch now. How about we go to the Mess Hall and have some lunch?"

Troubled, Nanami spoke up, "W-We would, but…"

Heishi strained a weak chuckle as he finished, "Today is Miss Rinkah's shift, so… We had a bit of a barbeque..."

"Barbeque?" Kamui raised a brow, "What's that?"

Heishi smiled, "Well, you cook meet and vegetables over a large fire."

Azura nodded with a small smile, "Oh, I had that once in the castle. The ingredients are suppose to be marinated before they're cook in the fire, and it's a bit charred…"

"Is that so?" Kamui pulled a smile, "That sounds good, but why the hesitation?"

Nanami answered, "It's charred… in the pan…"

Heishi added, "You could say that today's menu is burnt…"

Kamui's eyes widen as he grimaced, "Oh… I get it now. Well, it can't be as bad as what we had before, right?"

"Perhaps…" Azura nodded hesitantly.

---

After the small growing militia left on their journey, Mikoto was left with her team consisting of Sakuya and Kagami. Her friend joined their group for the journey as did Nanami and Heishi having not seeing this world before. Along the way, she learned the existence of the Dragon Vein and the shocking power of those who are capable of shifting the land. Heishi was just as excited as she was when she could feel a bit of excitement in her as well. In the beginning, she questioned how Kamui and Azura accepted her request to join their journey outside of the astral realm, but she was thankful for it. Taking this opportunity, she observed the strange terrain of the numerous oaks and birch with pines scattered in certain places. It wasn't common in her world and it made her want to continue moving onward. Heishi was already acting quite acquainted with some of the soldiers amongst the group as he chatted on and on about the lands. As they talked, he noticed the strange unusual differences between their homes that made it rather obvious that they were from different worlds. The tales, their history, the information about the magic. There were all different and new to the two. Kamui also seemed intrigued by their world as well. The word of a higher technology, better living conditions, their government, how they maintained peace for so long all intrigued him, especially when they learned that their ship was actually a ship that sails into the sky. Of course, such tales would spark some objections of disbelief, but Heishi wasn't too worried about that and Nanami didn't want to cause a scene. When they arrived at a town, Corrin begin to assign some squad to look about for any facelesses. Nanami and Heishi stayed with Sakura as they went to go pick up some supplies for their travels. Due to Sakura's timid nature and Hana's absence, Heishi took over most of the conversation and bargaining with the clerk. It was easy to see that his presence made it easier for their conversation to flow as they quickly got what they came here for. They left the door with the clerk smile widely as he waved. Sakura was amazed at this as was Nanami. She doesn't go with Heishi during shopping, but she knew his conversation skills were good and was always amazed whenever he was able to make a long conversation short. As Heishi looked up from his watch he noticed that the sun was still up in the sky as he noted, "It's one now, but it still looks like it's morning. Why's that?"

"W-Well, I don't really know." Sakura replied with uncertainty, "It's always been like this for us. It doesn't start setting till six though."

"That's so cool!" Heishi grinned.

Subaki sighed, "Everything is new for you, Heishi. You came from another world, of course."

Sakura nodded, "I never thought that there would be other worlds besides ours. I think Yukimura would like that place a lot."

"I agree, milady." Subaki smiled.

Nanami looked to him, "Is it that man back at the wall?"

"The fort?" Subaki corrected with a nod, "Yes. He is Hoshido's tactician and the best as far. He was once a rertainer as well. I believe the former king's retainer. He has a hobby of creating gadgets and machines."

"Ah, was he the one on top of the fortress?" Nanami questioned, "I think I saw him once from afar back then. He rode on this…"

Subaki grinned and nodded, "Yes. It must be him. His choice of a steed was his own works. He was always interested in them from what I recall. Perhaps, he'd enjoy seeing your world as well."

"That does sound like a possibility." Nanami said with a small nod.

Chats like these have become rather common amongst the two groups. Though the other knew that they were espers with powers, some didn't mind the fact, but as long as there were those who accepted there was still some who had… trouble with it. Because Kamui and his sister wanted for them to stay, the other factor agreed to let them, but Nanami didn't know if that would even change their minds about them, especially with if it was her. They didn't know and she hopes they never would, but she was afraid that the day may come closer and closer. She knew her ability could cause major problems amongst them and have thought of leaving the group. However, staying with them is the only way to get back to the ship. But, there was another side to this. She would be lying if she hadn't thought of finding a way to stay in this world. Then, she would be safe from those that want her ability. Nobody would've thought that she would be from another world nor would those from her know that she would be here. The truth was unbelievable and she could use it to stay here. But, at the same time, she knew that her friends wouldn't want that and the world wouldn't want her to go missing too. They'd come searching for her and, as a result, punishment. She needs to follow the World. They were the only one who offered her a place on the ship and they can still take that away from her. Even if only one of them was in contact with the World wasn't here, that doesn't mean she won't run into them or they won't come hunting her down too. She hasn't told anyone of her thoughts and wouldn't dare to. Azura and Mikoto was a strong possibility, but she didn't want to hurt her friends or be heard. As they were on their way back, she suddenly halted in her tracks. She felt that something wasn't right. Nanami felt a sudden push to her back as she looked up to see Subaki smile, "Is something the matter, Nanami? We need to hurry back to the others."

Although he was speaking to her, she noticed the man's eyes shift to the side as if something caught his eye. She was worried, but the man gave her another small push as if urging her to keep moving. So, she kept walking. She wasn't sure if it was because the sky knight knew or if he secretly didn't trust them as well. Without much choice, she stayed close to Heishi's side. After some thoughts and quick glances to her companions, she felt that her guess was right. They were being followed, but it seems like only the knight knew that. Subaki always seem to be on the edge looking back as he kept his Pegasus and lance close by his side. Heishi was given a bronze dagger from Gunterr before they left, but she was worried that it wouldn't be of much use since Heishi have never truly fought in a battle before. Nanami, however, always kept her kunai with her at all times, even going as far as buying a spare one from the blacksmith from the previous town, but, if they were against someone with a gun, there would be very little hope for them. Regardless, it seems that neither Heishi nor Sakura knew that they were being followed and continued their chat of how to open up to others. As they walked out of the town, the air around them only got tense as she could hear the footsteps following them. It wasn't till they were at a certain distance that the sound eventually stopped at one point of time. She looked to Subaki, who looked back to her from the corner of his eye. It wasn't long before they finally saw Hana and Corrin's group that he whispered something to his charge. Sakura's eyes widen with a gasp and the two talked back and forth before he called Hana over. The other retainer was reluctant to follow along, but it soon changed when Subaki talked with her. She looked to her charge and the two of them before she nodded. Sakura spoke some words with them before she and Subaki left. Heishi raised a brow, "Huh? What's the serious face of them for?"

Nanami tugged on his plaid sleeve.

"Nanami?" Heishi looked to her in confusion.

"We'll tell you after we return." She replied.

He seemed troubled by all the serious looks, but nodded in silence. They have known each other well-enough to not question when she gets like this, and she was grateful that he respected that. Corrin didn't seem too pleased with it either and quickly called the squad out to another location before reaching out to Lilith.

---

She didn't know what happened next, but, not long after she returned, Mikoto was already waiting for her with a large bag of fertilizer in her arms. Nanami blinked once, then twice as Mikoto looked to her in confusion, "Is something the matter, Nanami? If you have time to stare, help me a little, won't you?"

Nanami nodded and rushed over lifting the bag and another by her friend's feet with both arms. Mikoto sighed in relief as she took the smaller bag, "Thank you, Nanami. I felt like the entire bag was going to bury me alive there for a minute."

"Woah! Woah! What's this?" Heishi shouted in shock, "Is Miko- K-Kuga actually lifting a bag that big? Wha-?! H-How-!"

As many ignored them and begin on their individual course, Mikoto clearly blushed as she sighed, "Otomaru, I'm merely helping out a friend with her work. Wouldn't you do the same if your friends asked you for help?"

"Well, duh! B-but-!"

Mikoto frowned irritatingly, "I may not have done as much physical work on the ship, but that was because I was managing the barrier. Now that we're all not on the ship anymore, I'm free to move about as I want. Come on, Nanami. Can you help me carry them behind the Mess Hall? Mozu said she was going to make some field so we can save up money for vegetables and fruits. I'm not going to take our shelter here for granted either. That would be imposing on them."

"Okay." Nanami nodded as she carefully followed after Mikoto behind the stack of fertilizer as her friend struggled to move about with hers leaving their gaping comrade behind.

"Is something wrong, Heishi?" Sakura questioned nervously, "You're surprised, right? We kind of felt that…"

"Huh? Oh!" Heishi drew a sheepish grin nervously as he nodded, "Y-Yeah. Sorry about that. Haha…"

"Is something wrong with Kuga's behavior?" Hana questioned after seeing the scene before them.

"It's not really that big now that I think about it." Heishi admitted, "But, you see. When we were on the ship, Kuga's role was to keep a barrier around it to protect us from harsh weather and attacks. To do that, she needs to make sure that she doesn't work too hard. So, when we split the workload amongst our teams, Miko- Kuga's team was in charge of patrol. I've rarely ever seen her do much physical work besides running about and using her powers. I mean, she seemed to live her life like a princess… Well, a wealthy family or something like that. I wonder when was she able to lift weights like that. I thought Nanami was the only one who could do that."

Sakura peeked out to the girls as she noticed the familiar one lifting another bag into her arms.

"Th-that looks really heavy…" She noted.

Heishi nodded, "Yeah. She's always been able to do that. I mean we're always there to help her if she needs, but she usually has it under control most of the time."

Sakura nodded, "Maybe she does a lot of training?"

Heishi sighed with a smile, "Yeah, well. Strengths and speed aside, you can find that she really does need a lot of help when you get to know her better."

"Really?" Sakura looked to the two girls now helping Mozu move the fertilizer about as evenly as possible as Mikoto uses the farming tools as if she's done such manual labor before.

Subaki who was silent looked to him as he hummed in thought finally he asked, "Heishi… Pardon me, but is it possible that you and Nanami are close? …Like really close. You seem to really care about her a lot. I know you were watching me when I was talking with her in town."

"Wh-Wha?" Heishi took a step back as they could feel a little jolt in them.

From the reaction, Subaki grinned, "So… I was right."

"No way!" Hana gasped, "But, you really did give yourself away there… Have you told her, yet?"

Finally, Sakura's eyes widen as she blushed, "W-wait! You like-"

"N-No, no no!" Heishi waved wildly, "It's really not like that! Really!"

Finally settling down, he sighed and continued, "I admit that I use to feel that way, but now she's more like a younger sibling than that."

"I don't buy it…" Hana responded with a sigh, "I mean, if you felt that way, would it be so easy to just become like a sibling relation?"

Heishi sighed, "Even if she knew, she was already taken when I noticed it."

"Huh?!" Hana gasped, "Really?"

Heishi nodded as he grumbled, "Yeah. He's not here right now, but we're in the same team. I don't know how since they were never on good terms before, but they are now."

"I-I'm really sorry to hear that, Heishi…" Sakura said nervously.

"Thanks, Princess Sakura, but I'm fine, really." Heishi nodded, "But, now that we're talking about him, he hasn't really been showing up at all, huh?"

"That man you spoke of?" Subaki narrowed his eyes, "Speaking of which, he would be an esper like you and you friends, correct?"

Heishi nodded, "Ah. Our team is tasked with the cleanup and cooking. Ron is part of our team too. But, Ron rarely shows up or just naps somewhere and Nanami and I are always kicked out of the kitchen, unless we're the one helping the guy instead. We don't know what's his power is, but he doesn't look like he would act up either. Honestly, he's better at house chores than the rest of us. You can even add the nagging part to it."

Sakura giggled as Hana smiled, "It sounds like you all get along well."

Heishi grinned, "You better believe it."

Suddenly, Sakura looked up in surprise, "Oh! Will he be alright, though? Will the pursuer catch him?"

Heishi raised a brow as Subaki shook his head, "Perhaps. If we hasten the pace, we might find him, unless he isn't in Hoshido. That's the troubling thought. But, perhaps, your siblings would know since they just came from Nohr?"

Seeing the confusion on Heishi's face, Subaki quickly explained, "While we were on our way back from the errand, Nanami and I noticed that we were being followed. It lasted all the way till we left town and found Lady Corrin's squad."

"What?!" Heishi's eyes widen, "We were being followed? Why didn't… Urgh… right…"

Subaki nodded, "Sorry, Heishi. If I attempt to tell you about it, the pursuer would find out and if they really possess that illegal weapon that harmed our comrade, then we would be in trouble."

Heishi grimaced, "I get it. From what Ron told me, it would be impossible to get out of it alive or safely. Thanks, Subaki."

The sky knight grinned, "You're welcome."

Sakura nodded, "Now, my siblings are going to have a meeting about this later. S-Since, there's only five of us, holding a meeting doesn't seem to be too much trouble, but I heard that if there were more it would be more difficult."

"I believe our new allies' knowledge in the weapon would prove vital in our safety." Subaki noted grimly, "Even if the man does have the weapon on hand still."

Heishi sighed, "Well, he's on our side. Mikoto was the one who convinced him after all."

Subaki struggled a smile as he muttered, "I don't believe Prince Takumi would be too pleased to hear that…"

Sakura looked up in surprise before she frowned as she tilted her head, "B-But, brother said that it wasn't like that…?"

Heishi paused before he raised a brow, "Too pleased with what?"

---

Mikoto had just finished wiping the last table in the Mess Hall as she let out a sigh of relief, "There! Finally!"

"You did a fine job, Kuga."

She looked up and saw that it was Azura smiling as Nanami stood with her. Nanami smiled, "I just finished the other tables on my side too. Do you want to go to the lake now, Mikoto?"

Mikoto smiled as she nodded, "Of course! Oh! But, what of the dishes?"

Azura smiled, "Mozu said that she would do them for you. She seemed quite impressed by your effort today and wanted to help."

"Really?" Mikoto looked in surprise, "Well, I'll have to personally give her my gratitude."

Azura nodded, "Yes. Now, let's hurry to the lake, shall we?"

Mikoto met Azura through her friend, Nanami, and, as she thought, the princess was well-mannered. If she were a daughter of a wealthy family of their world as her, the princess would most likely be the model for many other daughters or girls of wealthy families. She was also happy to see that Nanami seemed to like her as well since she worried that her friends would be anxious being by themselves as girls. They usually her around at times, but others they could stand for themselves. If she had been alone though, Mikoto would've most likely felt the same, but also be forced to pick a direction to follow by had the former Archduke not been there. Everything was all still unusual for her, though. The magic to heal and to cause harm existed aside from her powers. She wondered if such a thing would have any regulations at all, but that didn't seem as likely. It appears to her that magic is the same as any weapon to their world. She wondered if the archduke could use such spells as well. Seeing that he didn't seem as likely to wield blades, it was possible as he said that he uses it with clear proof. Her allies were a strange bunch of people consisting of knights and samurais. Out of everything, Nanami had told her that she even saw the other armies riding on dragon-like creatures called wyverns. It was the most bizarre thing in the world. She would've questioned their consciousness as well, sadly, had Natsuhiko also noted that he saw the same thing. However, this wasn't what she had dreamed of. Her dreams were of something else other than flights on a mythical beast. Speaking of him, she looked to the princess as they passed the blacksmith shop, "Is Prince Kamui still holding the meeting with Natsuhiko? If so, it must be quite important for it to be so long."

Azura strained a smile, "Yes. But, guns are foreign to all of us in this world. The demonstration he pulled for us today already proves the dangers behind these weapons. We're lucky that he's willing to teach how to survive an attack."

Mikoto nodded with a smile, "Well, I suppose it's the situation and his ideas, after all. He's also very knowledgeable with technology too."

"Well, we're lucky to come across the two of you when we did." Azura smiled as the lake soon came into view, "We weren't sure how to go about our problem with the enemy everywhere we go. Ron have also been with us behind every journey. Kamui and I was worried that it would wear him out eventually?"

Muroboshi? Mikoto looked to Nanami wno shook her head. Mikoto raised a brow, "That's strange. He doesn't seem to do his job back on the ship. Why would he change so suddenly? Perhaps a motive of some sort? But, what is it?"

Hearing this, Azura giggled, "I'm sure it's nothing that big, Kuga."

Arriving at the lake, the princess took a seat on the grass. Mikoto and Nanami did the same as they looked out to the lake only to find it bare of any lights. Mikoto looked up to see that the sky was now a purple hue. By now, she would've been able to spot the first star in the sky, but, as she had thought, different world would also mean different skies. It just wasn't the same. Azura grinned, "Are perhaps looking for some stars, Kuga?"

She nodded, "Yes. It's as I thought. The skies here aren't as similar to our worlds. I was certain that I'd be able to see the first star by now…"

Azura looked up as Nanami said disappointingly, "I don't see any either…"

"Maybe not know, but later." Azura said, "Have you heard that the kingdom of Nohr was always covered in darkness and the kingdom of Hoshido was blessed with light?"

"I think the archduke told me that once." Mikoto responded upon the familiar words, "Why?"

"Although, it's true that Nohr is covered in darkness. The stars always seem to shine brightly against the night sky. We always the moon shining too."

"Really?" Mikoto said with a grin, "It'd be great for stargazing, then…"

Azura nodded, "Not everyone is as happy in the kingdom nor as nice at times, but, when you take the chance to look at the scenery, sometimes it doesn't appear as bad as one would think. I traveled through Nohr once as a child when my mother was still with me and being outside in the dark I find that is where the stars shines the brightest like a river."

"The Former Hoshidan Queen?" Mikoto frowned in confusion.

Azura shook her head, "No. My mother was the former Nohrian Queen, Arete. There was some difficulty after my mother's death, but, in the end, I was brought to Hoshido and Queen Mikoto of Hoshido raised me as a child of their family. The Nohrian king wasn't… acting like himself after my mother's death and conflicts within the castle became worse which led me to attempt fleeing the castle numerous times before I was kidnapped. So, I was already prepared for the worst before I was taken away."

"Oh…" Mikoto frowned and grimaced, "My apologies for bring those memories back up."

The princess shook her head, "No. it doesn't bother me as much now. Aside from those, I do have fonder memories of my childhood in Nohr. Oh, look!"

Mikoto turned around and saw little flickers of light moving about on the lake.

"Fireflies…" Nanami whispered at the sight.

Mikoto looked to it with a smile, "Well, it has been a long time since I last saw them. The last time, I've seen them was in the gardens of my house."

"A journey." Nanami bluntly replied.

Mikoto sighed, "Well, if you're on a journey, I guess you'd come up across them at some point in time."

As the three admired the event with awe, there was some shadow behind the trees. Kamui chuckled as he watched, "Looks like it worked. It seems Kaze's idea worked. It was a good idea to have them look at some fireflies."

Corrin nodded with a grin, "It looks like they're finally taking it easier. I kind of wish I could join them now. Oh, but has the patrol squad returned yet?"

Kamui frowned, "I was told they had, but there was no sign of the person."

His sister frowned, "Who could they've been after? Was it Nanami and Heishi or was it Sakura?"

"Either way, we have to uncover their identity soon, if we're to keep them safe." Kamui said, "They were brought here to help us, but I think the gods didn't realize what difficulty Nanami and her friends would have to face when they got here."

Corrin sighed, "First, they get misplaced into different place by themselves and ended up having to find way to get by a world they don't even know about. It wasn't even their choice to leave either."

Kamui nodded, "Which is why I want to help them get back home. I know they came here to help, but they don't even know what it meant to be in war till they came here. I mean, what do you think would've happened if we hadn't found them when we did?"

Corrin grimaced as she hesitantly answered, "The worst. But, what would've led to bringing them here? The Bottomless Canyon?"

Kamui frowned, "I don't know. But, the Archduke said that we need to find a dragon to receive the story behind it."

Corrin shook her head, "But, where can we find a dragon?"

Kamui shook his head, "I don't know, but I think our siblings might have a clue to this. I just hope that he would listen to us."

"He will." Corrin replied, "Takumi and Sakura did. I'm sure if Ryoma and our other siblings listens to us, they'd help us too."

Kamui nodded slowly with a small smile, "Right. Thanks, Corrin."

---

It's already been nearly five days since Koharu learned the situation behind the royal family of Nohr. She followed Cassita's instruction closely as she continued her day as Lily. She sold flowers with the princess and had even played games with her sometimes as though they were still children. Her brother seemed to have returned to the castle after a while and Odin came by once to see her, though she never knew what the man said sometimes and struggled to follow what he said. However, Koharu often worried whenever she looked up to the roof of the cave. She feared that with her location, nobody would be able to find her nor would she find them. One day, Elise came by with surprising news that afternoon when they finished selling their flowers.

"I think Flora and everyone else from the ice village is joining my sister to stop my brother." Elise said with a frown.

Cassita looked up in surprise, "Oh no… Is that what the king ordered?"

"The king?" Koharu questioned worringly.

Elise nodded, "He wanted Flora and her friends to help my sister stop Kamui and Corrin…"

"But wasn't Flora their maid?" Koharu's eyes widen.

Cassita nodded with a sigh, "Well, very few could stop his majesty when he wants something done. If Flora came from the Ice Village, then its best assumed that she was brought over to become their servant by his orders."

"Which means he can still take her away if needed." Effie added, "Now that Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin is no longer present here, they would have to follow his majesty's words."

Elise sighed, "It's probably because Flora and Felicia can use their Ice abilities to help. In their village, all of the people there can use ice powers and freeze stuff! I've seen them use it once to wake up Big Brother Kamui and Big Sister Corrin. It's really effective since nothing could get them out of bed!"

Cassita laughed, "Really?"

Koharu's eyes widen, "Then, at the tower…"

Effie shook her head, "Even if she had stopped the fire, there are still soldiers that could attack. The best choice would be to run."

"I see…" Koharu replied in disappointment.

It clearly was the better choice as she thought about it. If the fire had been put out, they still would've been chased by the soldiers and Flora could only do so much, she presumed. Elise sighed, "And, lately, everything has been really weird too. There has been so many people not happy and really mad. My brothers are always out trying to stop them from attacking. It's crazy! I don't know how did things get so bad…"

Cassita sighed, "I'm afraid the surface isn't as easy to live through as we thought, remember? There's no light and the bitter cold all makes it harder to grow crops. Even if we go to war, there won't be enough food for everybody, Princess Elise. Unless they live in the capital, there won't be much food to go by and the castle is already overflowing with people. The only way for us to receive food is depending on the war against Hoshido too. Their lands are fertile and could produce lots of food that we can't."

"That's true…" Elise muttered quietly.

Sensing this, Cassita strained a smile as she spoke, "So what was it that your brother's retainer did after your brother sent him out on that mission?"

"Oh!" Elise grinned finally, "He brought back that thing that Brother wanted! But, for some reason, Brother just sent him out on another errand after. It was really strange, but it stopped after a while. Brother sometimes does things like these that I don't understand."

Cassita thought for a bit before she grinned, "Oh… Hehe. Well, I suppose everything fell through in the end. It not something you should worry over, Lady Elise. As long as the three get along fine, then it's all that matters, right?"

Elise tilted her head in confusion as Effie stifled back a chuckle, though Arthur seemed to remain oblivious as his attention was soon brought to the teacup he accidentally broke. Koharu quietly sipped the tea next to Cassita, who had taken a break from her chores as well.

That night after Princess Elise left, Cassita and Koharu had their dinner and went to bed after making sure that the house was cleaned. Her dream was a pleasant one this time as she recalled her time on the ship. However, that was soon interrupted as she was awoken by a loud crash that soon followed by a thump. Worried, she quietly slipped into her dress and put on her shoes as she tiptoed to her door. As she was about to unlock it there was a sudden loud bang as she immediately dropped to the ground and covered her head. When it was over, she saw that the lock to her room was broken she instinctively pushed the cabinet against the door just as it was about to open. Her first thought was of Cassita who was sleeping in the other room. No doubt the sound must've awoken her, but, along with it was her words. Frantically, she looked about and saw the window, she recall that all the windows of the house had a wooden board kept above it. Praying that it would do, she opened the window frame and jumped out of the window. As she feet landed on the wooden board, it nearly gave away to her feet before she jumped off and raced through the alleyways. She knew that it was a dangerous thing to do, but, with someone with a gun, she believed that it didn't matter before she rushed past the alleys and into the streets. Luckily, she didn't run into any patrols as she raced up the slope before she found the familiar looking stairs that Effie had brought her through. She thanked Cassita for always bring her by this place in her head and quickly climbed up the stairs as she heard the sounds of running footsteps behind her followed by another gun shot. The place was lit with torches as she made her way up through the dark stairs. Without much choice, she quickly knocked over each torch one by one as it rolled off the stone steps and into the growing darkness. Her worry grew as she could hear the footsteps drawing near. However, as she knocked over the next torch. The doors came to view as she could hear a loud tumble behind her. She pushed against the door as hard as she could and jumped out of it before she slammed it shut again. However, she didn't stop running as she continued hurrying through the empty street alleys and carefully slipped through the streets and roads before she found herself back in the snow-covered forest where Selena led her through. She gripped her black cloak tightly with one hand as she hurried through the forest. She wasn't certain if there were anymore knights after that day, but, as she rushed through the bushes and mud, she finally found herself around the burnt tower. She quietly located through the familiar back door that led her into the tower. She had ran far and she knew that as she already felt like she could faint at any moment now. But, just as she felt herself relax for a second there was another loud gun shot and a shout!

"Call for reinforcement! There's an intruder at the tower! He's trying to break into the tower!"

As the sound drew close, her eyes widen as she got back on her feet and hurried through the familiar halls. She recalled the tower's layout as she and Flora had been the one who cleaned the first couple floors. She rushed through the doors slamming each behind her until she could already hear shouts. They knew that she was inside already. Frantically, she looked around her surroundings before she noticed a door not far behind her. Before she could hesitate, she could already hear the shouts of guards rushing not too far from her. Without much thoughts, she opened the door and jumped in shutting it tight as she looked around and saw that she was in a familiar looking guest room. As the footsteps drew closer, she knew that it would be weird if she had locked the door. Quickly, she slid under the bed and waiting anxiously as he footsteps drew closer. Each doors were slammed open one at a time before hers was also kicked open. A soldiers shouted, "Quick! Quick! Are they here?!"

The soldiers looked about. The dressers, the cabinets, the desk. Quietly, Koharu remained still as a stone as she watched their boots made their way over to the bed. Just as they were about to investigate it, another shot rang out in the halls. The boots ran outside as the same voice shouted, "He's in the halls! Hurry!"

She waited as the sound of running footsteps followed by more rushed across the stone floor as they eventually vanished. After a few more seconds, Koharu slowly made her way out from under the bed before she accidentally kicked something. She got out and looked under the bed to find a beautiful looking wooden box. She took it out and saw that it had a small handle. As she thought of opening it, she hesitated and just threw it into her bag as she rushed to the door. She looked outside before resuming her search for the door. It wasn't long before she soon found what she was looking for. Thankfully, there was no guards at the door as she dashed out across the door to the gates. However, taking a quick glance from the shadow of the bush, she saw that it was guarded by soldiers. After some thought she then recalled a trick a friend had told her of once. She looked about before picking up a small pebble and just as she was about to throw it through as small window high on the wall, there was a scream that made the two guards jump. Quickly, she ducked between the bushes as she watched the two guards rush into the tower leaving their post. Taking this chance, she quickly darted from the door to the woods that she hid in with one of Leo's retainers. Not leaving it to chance she passed continued running through the woods before she finally found herself where the two princes once brought her to their camp. She was finally outside of the capital much to her disappointment. As she looked back, she saw that the kingdom was now behind her sticking out of the trees as she frowned. Her thoughts were of Cassita and the house before the words echoed into her head again. She have to live and, to do that, she has to keep running, but where?

She fished out her map from her bag that Cassita had gotten for her. After their talk, Cassita presented her with this bag already stocked with everything she would need if she found herself in trouble and on the run. It was apparently a common occurrence in Nohr sometimes, so Cassita had already begun assembling her one while she was helping Elise distribute flowers. Even now she couldn't thank the caretaker enough for all she had done for her as she opened the map and looked to the capital as she was taught. She then found the clearing that she was in and searched for the nearest town. After tracing the following road ahead of her, she started making her way through the woods alone. Cassita had told her before what should be done if she found herself in trouble and the answer was …

---

It was morning according to the clock by the time, the two princes arrived at the scene. Leo had already took Cassita to the side for a quick inquiry and found that the two were asleep when a man in strange clothing had snuck into her home. However, instead of going from door to door, he immediately gone for one room specifically. It was Koharu's room. The room was now empty and a complete mess of holes in the floor and walls. The bed was not kept and littered with holes. The window was open and the board below slammed shut. Inside the room, Leo frowned as he noted, "There's only one possibility in my mind right now. It seems like she was pursued by someone, but these damages… Xander? Huh?"

As he glanced over to his brother, he saw that the prince was poking at something in his palm. Leo took a glance and saw that it was a strange shaped peace of tiny metal in his hand. Leo raised a brow, "What is it?"

His brother frowned as he answered, "The 'arrow' of the weapon he used. I recall that Camilla told me the girl came from a country where there are metal weapons that shoots out pieces of small metal at a frightening speed. Leo, the attacker must be a foreigner with a small metal device. Ask around and see if there was anyone with such descriptions. Quickly!"

"R-right!" Leo jumped before rushing out the door.

He couldn't help but feel that it was strange for his brother to be this worried over something. It was unusual, but he knew that something was going to happen next. He just didn't know what. He quickly brought his retainers together and sent out a search for the man. He didn't think of returning to the house until a couple hours later where he found some rather interesting rumors. He returned to the house where Cassita was now sitting on one of the chairs with her hands together as if praying. He looked around before walking over to her wrote something on piece of paper nearby and passed it over to her. The woman picked it up and looked to him before reading it. Her eyes widen before she quickly picked up the quill set on the table and quickly scribbled on it before returning it to Leo. He picked it up and read it quietly. It said:

Since this week, I've told her repeatedly that, if anything happens, she would have to run out of the kingdom and search for Crykensia, Prince Leo. Because she's always listened to me, I'm certain that's where she must've gone, milord. Her bag was gone, so she has the map."

His eyes widened before he looked to her with a nod. It was indeed a smart choice for her to teach the girl such a strategy. Had she remained in the capital and found, there was a chance that they would want to check who she was before she would be brought back. However, knowing that she was foreigner that they snuck in, she would be brought to their father instead. By sending her to Cyrkensia, a capital of a neutral kingdom between the two warring kingdoms, she would be protected from Nohrian soldiers and Hoshidan soldiers, hence from the enemy and their father's reaches. The only problem was getting there. However, knowing how far the old caretaker had thought out, he felt that she must've already prepared her for such the experience. At least, that's what he hoped. He quickly returned to the room to find his brother now looking at a piece of paper. Leo raised a brow, "Xander, I found information regarding Koharu, but… I… couldn't find anything on that man."

Xander nodded, "That's more than I thought we would be able to gather."

He turned around and frowned, "But, I wonder why has nobody seen her pursuer… If she was spotted her pursuer would be after her as well."

"Illusion magic?" Leo thought with a frown after handing him the paper.

Xander took it with a nod as he opened the paper and narrowed his eyes, "Quite possible… Leo."

The second prince nodded, "I've already notified my retainer. He's looking into this as we speak."

Xander nodded again before he handed the papers into his hands, "I'll leave these with you, Leo. Right now, Father is busy with other matters."

He watched him leave before looking down at the paper. It was a picture of a woman with long hair in a sweater with pink flowers falling in the background. It was a surprise to see something like this. It doesn't seem to be colored onto it either and the paper was already starting to turn yellow, which shows its age. He raised a brow as he felt that something seemed off with the photo. The image was already strange enough and it was most likely dropped by either Koharu or the man. That's when he finally noticed something about her. She… seemed a bit like-

"Prince Leo."

He turned around and saw his retainers return before stuffing the two into his pocket. He nodded, "Have you found anything?"

---

Elise was pacing around her quarter. She wanted to go down to the capital to see what the commotion was all about. She recalled seeing her brother's retainer rushing to Leo's quarter and knocking on the door in a panic. It wasn't like the strange blond man to be doing that. To Elise, he was always having fun saying really fun things like darkness and stuff. It wasn't a common thing for him to act like this. Maybe something happened. Obviously, she was curious and hid behind the corner as she saw her brother open the door. She giggled. He got his clothing on right for the first time, but his hair… was a mess. Suddenly, Odin took quick glances before he whispered something. Out of the blue, her brother's eyes shot open," What?! Cassita's?!"

Elise froze. Immediately, he ordered, "See if you can get in contact with my brother."

Odin was soon off rushing about again as Elise quietly snuck out of her hiding and approached her brother, "Leo? What's going on?"

"Hm?" He looked to her in surprise, "Oh! U-Up already, Elise? It's still really early."

Elise frowned, "I couldn't sleep… But, Leo, what's going on? You said something about Cassita…"

Leo hesitated before he said with a sigh, "Elise just stay in the castle with your retainers. Don't leave the castle, got it? Xander and I will look into it."

Elise was taken aback, but nodded, "A-All right…"

The man petted her head before rushing back into his room.

"Oh!" Elise called to him, "Leo, your hair!"

As the door closed, she could already hear the groan behind the entrance as she giggled. She wondered what the issue could be as she returned to her quarter. She felt that something must've happened with Koharu and her former caretaker. Now, she waited for her brothers to return as she grumbled, "Something must've happened. Why can't I go with them? She's my friend too! Is Cassita all right?"

As she thought quietly, she thought she saw something lurking in the garden below her window. She then saw the figure of a young man with silver hair and a long black trench coat. She looked with interest before she noticed him look up. The man stopped in her tracks as Elise tilted her head. Regardless, you can only make friends if you greet them, so she waved her hand with a wide grin. However, the man only rushed into the woods without returning it. She frowned, "Huh? Why did he run? That's weird. Hm…"

"Lady Elise? Is something the matter?"

She turned around and saw that it was Arthur and Effie. Elise shook her head, "Nothing. It's just I saw someone in the gardens. Hey! Arthur! Effie! Let's go into the garden! I want to see if we can find that person!"

Her retainers looked to each other in confusion before Elise pleaded, "Please? We'll be back before my brothers find out."

Effie sighed as they both grinned telling her all she needs as she smiled, "Yay! Thank you!"

She hurried to the door as her retainers hurried after her. The princess rushed through the halls and out to the garden. Passing the roses and other pretty flowers, Elise rushed to the back of the gardens where the saw the man disappear to. She looked about as she noticed the pretty lake before her. Her eyes glittered as she saw the small rock platform and an old bench. She smiled and looked about in awe, "WOW! I've never been to this part of the gardens before! Effie! Arthur! Look! Look! We have a lake here! See!"

Arthur was a bit out of breath, but Effie nodded with a grin, "Yes, milady. It's really beautiful here."

Elise nodded eagerly, "Yeah! I wish we can go swimming here in the future. To think the garden was actually this big!"

As she looked about, she said, "Effie! Arthur! Can we go on the rocks? Please?"

Her retainers frowned as Arthur said, "I don't think the stone will hold all three of us, milady."

Effie nodded, "It seems a little dangerous, Princess Elise."

"Aw…"

She frowned before another idea came up, "Hey! How about let's have picnic here? That should be fine, right? We can come here with everyone and have a picnic!"

They smiled as Arthur said, "That sound like a wonderful idea, Princess Elise!"

---

The next day, Nanami and Mikoto followed the group on their journey. This time they were joined by some of the other Espers, Heishi and Nijou. Ron and Natsuhiko was there this time after hearing of the incident. Mikoto and Nijou didn't seem customed to walking long distances and occasionally went on the carriage they just got from the Kingdom of Izumo. Now that they were certain that there was a way to stop the war, Kamui and Corrin decided to get a carriage for the growing militia. They didn't want to stop moving, but they also didn't want to tire some of their soldiers. So, purchasing a carriage wasn't a bad idea. Now, they'd be prepared in case there was a battle rather than trying to call people from the astral realm that they needed. Nanami's only problem is who her friend continue to insist that she'd be fine when she saw that the girl was clearly tired. She persuaded him for a while before she finally followed through with it. Nanami, didn't feel the least bit tired at all as she continued walking. Heishi seemed to be the same as he continued walking beside her. Occasionally, Muroboshi came up from behind asking them some of the most obvious questions. Seeing this, Corrin smiled, "I'm glad to see that the espers are fitting in finally."

Kamui nodded, "You're right. It looks as if our soldiers are getting along fine with Natsuhiko better now."

Takumi sighed, "Well, what'd you expect when he holds such a dangerous weapon. Can't you ask him to change to bow and arrows instead? You did it for Ron."

"We tried." Corrin strained a smile, "But, it seems he's reluctant to do so. He doesn't want to be at a disadvantage against his enemy, he said."

Takumi grumbled something incoherently as Sakura spoke up, "I was really worried when everyone seemed to be staring at them a lot."

Azura smiled, "I suppose that some might have thought of their powers as magic now. For one, I know that Hayato thinks that way of them."

Kamui nodded, "He's friends with Itsuki and Sorata, after all."

Azura frowned, "Right. Kamui, about the child, what do you think we should do? Esper or not, he's still just a child."

Kamui turned to her, "I plan to leave in him Lilith's care for now. Nanami and her friends all said that his condition is special amongst them. He has no powers and isn't an esper, but claims to be from their future."

"What?" Takumi grimaced, "That's crazy!"

Kamui nodded, but sighed, "True. But, he clearly has talent with the technology of their world. Natushiko spoke for him on that. But, the matter now is that his only guardians are Ron and his friends. The only safe place he has is with Lilith in the astral realm."

"You're right about that." Corrin nodded, "I don't want to put a child on the battlefield either."

Kamui smiled, "So, we agree to just have him stay in the astral realm with Lilith, then?"

"Prince Kamui? Princess Azura?"

They turned and saw Nanami behind them.

"Nanami?" Kamui raised a brow, "What is it?"

She pointed into the distance and said, "That smoke. Can it be a message?"

"Hm?" Kamui frowned as he said smoke rising out behind the hills in the distance, "Everyone, hold up! I see something in the distance."

As they halted, Corrin frowned, "It looks like… a plume of smoke?"

"That isn't just any smoke…" Kaze spoke up, "It's my brother's smoke signal."

Nanami looked up in surprise. She didn't know that he has a brother. Then again, she isn't that close with the man to know, either. But, wait. She seemed to recall him tell her of him once.

"Saizo's there?" Kamui raised a brow, "What does the smoke signal mean?"

"He is." Kaze answered, "And it means that he's engaging a large number of enemy troops."

"Can it be the faceless?" Takumi said with suspicion.

"We need to go help him, then!" Corrin said with a grimace.

"No, Lady Corrin." The ninja replied with a frown, "If he has sent up that specific smoke signal… Well, that isn't him asking for help."

"Huh?" Nanami frowned in confusion, "But, isn't smoke signal used to call for help?"

"That signal is mean to warn allies away." Kaze shook his head, "He believes it is too dangerous there. We… should head in a different direction."

"You can't be serious…" Kamui frowned, "Kaze, that's your own brother out there. No, I've made up my mind. Everyone, get ready for battle! We're going to help Saizo!"

Takumi sighed as he shook his head.

"Lord Kamui, why?" the ninja frowned, "You'll be putting us all in danger!"

"The enemy we are facing can't be beaten if we don't gather allies." Kamui replied firmly, "And I won't sit on my hands when an ally is in need!"

Suddenly, Nanami felt a strange feeling in her gut, but, before she could turn around, there was a sudden pain in her neck nearly choking her as she went numb and crumbled to the ground.

---

Hearing her brother's words, Corrin nodded, "We have to be willing to help each other, no matter how dangerous a situation is."

Kaze only nodded, "If you insist, Lord Kamui. Thank you…"

Azura looked to Heishi, "Heishi, you and Nanami have to stay in the wagon with your friends. The battle this time will be dangerous."

Hesitantly, Heishi nodded, "All right. But, be careful... Nanami. Huh? Nanami?"

They looked around in surprise as the finally noticed that the child had disappeared into thin air. Kamui said with a grimace, "Huh? Where is she? She was just here with us a moment ago."

Azura frowned as she noticed something lying on the ground. She hurried over and picked it up as she muttered quietly, "A kunai?"

She turned to Kaze, who narrowed his eyes and shook his head, "It's not mine…"

"Then, it must be Nanami's!" Sakura gasped, "But she always keeps her weapons with her…"

Kamui frowned and looked to Corrin who nodded, "You go gather the squad and help Saizo. I'll go look for her. I doubt she'd be able to go into our ranks without any of us noticing. Azura, stay with our siblings."

The songstress nodded. Corrin turned around and hurried through the bustling soldiers preparing for the battle ahead. Kamui turns to Heishi, "Where's Ron?"

"He's went to get his bow, sir." Heishi answered, "He'll be back soon."

Takumi shook his head, "He should always have his bow with him, unless, we're in camp!"

"You can give him a lecture later." Kamui sighed in relief, "Heishi, go tell your friends what happened, but let them know not to leave the wagon. There's a battle going on and I can't promise they won't be caught by wandering enemies if they leave. My sister will look for Nanami."

Kamui could already feel the rising panic in him as he concluded that it was coming from Heishi. However, the man nodded and rushed to the back. Kamui frowned, "We have to get moving. Corrin with gather her group and look for her."

They nodded and, after the army quickly sorted themselves, hurried after the smoke.

---

After looking through the troops and a brief look at the wagon, Corrin realized that Nanami was actually no where to be seen. She was worried knowing that the girl was still new to this world and hurried to form a small group consisting of their maid and her brother's retainer, Hinata. The three left the group before seeing that Muroboshi had followed after them with Mozu close by.

"Ron? Mozu?" Corrin looked up in surprise.

"Your brother told us to help you." Ron explained with a frown, "Have you found her already, Corn?"

As usual he asks only the obvious and his memory with names made very little progress as she shook her head with a grimace, "No… We're still looking for her. We only found her kunai."

Mozu gave the man a jab with her elbow as she corrected, "Ron, she's Princess Corrin."

"Right, right." Ron said with a grin as they were uncertain if the man really got that down.

Corrin smiled, "Thank you, Mozu. But, let's hurry and look for her. She can't be far…"

As they continued forward through the woods, Felicia accidently tripped as she fell to the ground, "Eek!"

"Huh? What was that?" Ron looked around even though Felicia was right in front of him!

Corrin spun around and quickly helped the maid up, "Felicia! Are you all right?"

"Yes…" Felicia said nearly in tears, "Sorry…"

"It's fine. Um… your skirt. Huh?" Corrin looked to the bush that caught Felicia's dress and saw the pale blue cloth dangling from it.

After helping Felicia, she looked to the cloth as she muttered, "Isn't this like the kimono Nanami wore?"

Ron bent down for a closer look as he lifted his glasses, "Hm… it looks like it."

"You don't even know if this is hers?" Felicia frowned as he looked to the man, "Not even noticing me is one thing, b-but for Nanami…"

Corrin narrowed her eyes in suspicion as he placed his glasses back. Corrin shook her head, "Felicia, I'm sure there's a reason for all this. You know our militia since the beginning. There's always a reason for all of it."

"Oh…" Felicia hesitated, "All right…"

Corrin smiled, "Anyway, it seems we're on the right track. Let's keep looking."

Corrin continued her search for the girl. After some time, Ron stopped and looked to the ground. Corrin frowned in confusion and looked him, "Ron? Did you find something?"

"Footprints." Ron chuckled as he pointed a trail aside from theirs leading forward.

Corrin saw this and narrowed his eyes, "You're right!"

Hinata said with a frown, "Let's see. It looks like it leads up the hill."

Mozu nodded, "And it doesn't seem like Nanami's…"

Corrin frowned, "Looks like there was someone involved after all. But, how did they take her right before us? Never mind. Let's keep moving."

There was a loud explosion in the distant. Corrin grimaced, "It looks like the battle as escalated. Felicia gasped, "Look! Is that-?!"

"Yes!" Mozu grinned, "I think that's Mikoto's barrier!"

Corrin smiled, "I guess they should be all right, then. Hurry! We have to find her before Nanami gets taken further."

The group rushed after the trail of footprints. Just before they could go any further, there was a loud crack as a small plum of dust rose.

"Get down! Take cover!" Ron shouted.

Without much thought, everyone fell to the ground. Corrin recognized this command. As they crawled to the nearest trees. The sound continued as dust continue to rise up into the air. Suddenly, a hand grabbed her collar and pulled her forward. She found herself thrown behind a tree next to Ron as he grumbled, "This is great. Just great… Well, Corn?"

"Corrin." She corrected with a grateful nod, "Ron, can you see the perpetrator?"

"I suppose he's in the trees." He muttered.

"Can your arrows reach there?" Corrin questioned.

"Can't." Ron replied, "Not enough room. Can I use it?"

Corrin hesitated. She knew the dangers of the weapon and, according to Natsuhiko, it has replaced the common weapon of swords and arrows.

"Unless you want us filled with bullets later-!"

"Please don't joke about that." Corrin said with a frown.

She sighed and nodded as she covered her ears from the loud noise, "You have my permission after we can find the archer. I'll explain the situation to my siblings."

"Sweet." Ron grinned before he pulled out the haunting metal device.

He peered behind the tree and looked around before he finally saw it. A man with dark brown hair and green coat holding a long rifle in hand. He readied the gun with the ammunition inside and pulled the trigger. There was a loud bang and the rattling sound finally stopped. Instead the dark figure fell to the ground and exploded.

"Oh?" Ron grinned as he saw this, "This is interesting."

Corrin sighed, "Let's leave that later."

She rushed out of their hiding as others slowly followed after her. Seeing the fire, Corrin transformed into her dragon form and put out the flames with her abilities. As she looked back, Ron had pulled out the long wide chain from the strange gun and sighed, "Well, better give this to the guy later."

He handed the chain to Hinata who hesitantly took it. Ron sighed, "That won't hurt anybody. If they were together it would. That's what it shoots out. Those things. Just hold on to it, okay? I have to take care of this heavy thing."

As he pointed to the silver lines of it. Hinata nodded. Corrin frowned, "Is that?"

Ron nodded, "Yup. That's the ammunition for this thing. I'll give it to Natsuhiko later."

"What's he going to do with it?" Corrin frowned in confusion.

"Well, he said he would do something to it…" Ron said with a frown and shrugged.

Corrin strained a smile before she looked about, "But, where's Nanami?"

Her eyes soon fell upon a large lump of metal that she had put out. What seemed to be clothe was nearly burnt away as what was left of it was a bunch of machinery. Ron got swung the strap of the weapon over his shoulder and took a glance at it and whistled, "The boss might wanna see this later too. But, the kid…"

"Not here…" Mozu frowned anxiously, "I can't find her anywhere!"

Corrin looked around before she pointed, "Look! The trail continues!"

She looked between the trail and the strange device before looking to Ron, "Ron, are you sure that Natsuhiko won't want this?"

"He would." Ron replied, "But, we already have this."

Mozu frowned, "But I saw him get mad at you when you messed up before. Should we-?"

Ron yawned as she scratched the back of his head, "Look. We don't have much time. What's more important? Boss yelling at me or we lose an esper girl?"

Corrin nodded with a grimace, "Well, I guess we'll just hide this thing that and come back after we find her. Hinata, help me out!"

"Got it!" the samurai said after stuffing the ammunition into his bag.

When they finished stuffing the ammunition away, Corrin led the group through the woods as more explosions sounded off in the distance. She could already tell that some were anxious of the situation on the other side, especially Hinata who keeps looking to the distance. Finally, when they came to a stop, they found themselves before a small house. As they looked about it, they saw that the footprints led into the home. Corrin turned to her squad, "We'll split into two groups. Ron, Felicia, and Hinata go to the back of the structure. Mozu, we're going to check the interior. Let us know if you find the owners of the home."

The group nodded and left with Felicia dragging Ron with her as he yawned and was standing idly before then. Softly and stealthily as they could Mozu and Corrin snuck up to the front window as she noticed the three hurry to the back in silence. Once they made it to the sliding door, Corrin snuck over to the paper windows before she realized that this wasn't like the windows of the homes of Nohr. There was no window and instead it was paper. Suddenly, her eyes lit up as she grinned. Carefully, she poke a small hole through the window as she silently apologized to the owners in her head for the damage. As there was no sound, Corrin hesitantly peeked through the hole only to see nothing but red and a hand on the ground. The floor was also littered with holes as she grimaced. She quickly pulled back and turned to Mozu with pursed lips. The confused woman looked to her before Corrin slammed the door wide open much to their horror. Before them was a room of red and four bodies that lay on the ground motionless in damp clothing. Corrin wanted to scream at the top of her lungs, but she had seen worse thanks to her last few moments in Nohr. However, Mozu was another problem. The poor girl screamed from the top of her lungs from the sight. Immediately, the three returned only for Felicia to join in as well. Corrin turned to her brother's retainer, "Hinata! Take Felicia and Mozu out of here now! Ron, help me check that room for Nanami! Don't worry about any enemies hiding! …there probably shouldn't be any after all this bloodshed. But, let me know if you found the owners!"

She didn't know if Ron heard all she said, but shouting it out should get the idea across to him by now. She regrettably avoided the ninja corpses and went to the other room to her right. Unlike the main one, this looked more like a shed as there was farming tools and a large chest. Seeing a bunch of seeds and hay strewn about, her curiosity lies in the large chest. The chest itself was brown and looked large enough to hide a person in there. She cautiously walked closer and knocked on it, "Nanami? Nanami, are you there?"

Finally, she opened the chest and gasped in shock, "K-K-Kagero?!"

The ninja with long brown hair tied into a ponytail and brown female ninja clothing looked back to her with wide eyes of the same expression. Corrin quickly gathered herself and saw the ropes and gag on the retainer.

"Hold on!" She said as she pulled out the gag and undid the ropes, "I'm gonna let you go right now. There!"

Finally, the ropes were untied and the woman slowly got to her feet. Kagero grimaced as she brushed herself off before turning to Corrin, "Princess Corrin, what are you doing here? Last I had heard, you'd betrayed Lord Ryoma and fled the battlefield."

Corrin shook her head, "I didn't betray him, Kagero. Neither did my brother. We want to stop the fighting. The only reason why Xander was there was because of us and it was also why the fighting began. Please, Kagero, I don't want to fight any of my friends nor family, especially now either. Not you or my brother. We only wanted them to listen to both of us. But, we didn't get to tell them everything."

Hesitantly, Kagero frowned, but slowly nodded, "Then, I shall hear your explanations late. For now, thank you for saving me just now, but, if I may, why are you here?"

Corrin nodded, "One of our allies was suddenly kidnapped right under our nose when we saw Saizo's smoke signal. We've been looking for her and found footsteps leading to this place. If you can could you tell us why you're here?"

Kagero nodded, "I was traveling through these lands as Mokushu is, no, was allied with Hoshido, but I saw the smoke signal and came only to fall into their trap. Their leader, Kotaro, has allied themselves with Nohr in exchange for power. I was captured and imprisoned here. But, I heard some strange sounds while I was trapped in the chest."

Corrin frowned, "It's a good thing that you were in the chest, then."

"Huh?" Kagero looked to her in bewilderment.

Corrin grimaced, "It'll be hard to explain the complete story to you, right now. But, the kidnapper is foreign in these lands and they brought lethal weapons illegal in their lands. While you were captured, the kidnapper passed through here and annihilated your captors. It's… well, like murder, I guess."

Kagero's eyes widen before she looked to the door leading to the main room and, before Corrin could stop her, made her way there only to freeze upon the sight, "This-!"

Corrin followed her out as she looked to the blood splattered walls and the bodies.

"Littered with holes…" Kagero noted with a grimace.

"Yeah, well, that's what happens when you use a gun."

They looked up and saw Ron standing before them with Nanami now on his back sleeping peacefully while he held the long gun in hand.

"You found her!" Corrin sighed in relief, "Is she hurt anywhere?"

"That girl…" Kagero narrowed her eyes, "Could she be…?"

"Huh?" Corrin's eyes wide, "That's right! Kagero, this is Ron Muroboshi and the child is Nanami Shiranui. Actually, they're both foreigner that was brought to this continent. The explanation is also complicated, but I do believe that you and Saizo met her back in Shirasagi castle."

"I thought so." Kagero smiled, "I feared that she didn't make it through that fall. Prince Ryoma ordered for us to cease our pursuit, but she had already jumped off the wall by then. Saizo and I looked for her, but we could never find her in the end. At least, she lived, but how did she-?"

"Right." Ron frowned and took out the gun handing the handle to Corrin, "Sorry, but it's not like I can carry both of them at the same time."

"R-Right…" Corrin nodded as she hesitantly took the rifle in hand and grimaced, "To think such a weapon would create such a massacre…"

"This is a gun?" Kagero's eyes widen.

"Pretty much." Ron said with a sigh, "Took out the actual weapon from it though. Oh, but don't pull back on that trigger or you'll get burned."

"R-Right…" Corrin grimaced as she carefully held both ends, "What's Natsuhiko going to do with this, Ron? We've already made it perfectly clear that we won't allow such weapons to be spread to the people or the soldiers."

Ron shrugged, "Who knows. I never knew what boss does with these anyway. Come on, let's get going."

As if in charge, Ron led the group out to where Hinata stood patting Mozu on the head with an encouraging smile.

"Hinata?!"

The samurai looked up in surprise, "Kagero? Hey! How come you're here?"

Corrin smiled, "She was captured. We were lucky to have come across her."

"But, why are you here?" Kagero frowned, "You're supposed to be with Prince Takumi!"

Hinata nodded as he scratched the back of his head with a smile, "Yeah, well. Lord Takumi decided to join Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin's army after Archduke Izana passed. He kept telling him to join them. So, that's why we're here!"

"Archduke Izana passed away?" Kagero questioned in disbelief, "But Izumo is a neutral kingdom."

Corrin nodded, "When we got there, Nohrian soldiers had already infiltrated the castle and imprisoned him and Takumi. To help us, he sacrificed his life to speak with their god to help us stop the war. We never knew that the price was his life until after the ritual. Had we not asked him for help, he'd still be alive."

Kagero noted, "Saizo won't like hearing this…"

"My apologies, Kagero." Corrin grimaced, "Were you trying to look for him by any chance?"

Kagero shook her head, "No."

Corrin tilted her head, but nodded, "Well, I won't stop you, but I need to return to my siblings quickly. If you fell for the trap, then-"

"I know." Kagero grimaced, "If milady is here, then the army I saw was yours, wasn't it?"

Corrin nodded, "Most likely. I came to look for Nanami while Kamui and our siblings went to fight against this Kotaro you spoke about."

"I see." Kagero nodded.

"Kagero! Corrin!"

They turned around and saw Corrin's siblings rush over to them.

"Princess Sakura?" Kagero's eyes widen, "You're here too? But, didn't they betray-"

Sakura nodded, "No, that was a misunderstanding. They didn't betray anyone. If you need proof… Well, I'm traveling with them! So is Takumi!"

Seeing the two siblings before her and the words, Kagero nodded, "I see."

She turned to Kamui and Corrin, "Lord Kamui, Lady Corrin, I ask for your forgiveness. Lady Corrin told me, but-"

"No, don't worry about it, Kagero." Kamui smiled in relief, "I'm just glad you're safe."

"Kagero, are you injured?"

They looked up to see a familiar ninja in red hurrying to them.

"Saizo, you're here as well?" Kagero said in surprise, "Why is everyone in Mokushu?"

"Isn't it obvious?" the ninja replied, "We came to save you."

"Then, I am indebted to all of you." Kagero said gratefully, "The nature of my job requires that I be prepared to give my life every day. …Thank you for making sure today wasn't that day."

He turned to the Hoshidan siblings, "Now, I can pass along the message that Lord Ryoma gave me."

"So you do know where our lord is." Saizo said.

"Yes." Kagero nodded, "When I left him, Lord Ryoma was on his way to Cheve, near the Nohrian border."

"Cheve?!" Saizo said with what maybe a grimace.

"Correct." Kagero nodded, "The area is currently fighting against Nohrian forces. Apparently, the people could no longer take Nohrian oppression and have revolted. It is Lord Ryoma's objective to befriend the rebels and use them to cross into Nohr."

Her colleague crossed his arms, "Our lord has not lost his reckless habits. I see. We must locate him before anything happens."

"Kamui. Corrin." Takumi said to his siblings, "Let's head to the port. We'll need a boat in order to reach Cheve."

"All right." Kamui nodded, "We'd better hurry. We're going to need Ryoma's help. I don't know why, but I think he may know about the dragon Archduke Izana spoke of."

"The dragon?" Kagero looked to him with a frown, "Could this be…"

Corrin nodded, "A few days ago, he helped us with a ritual."

Takumi nodded with a frown, "He told my siblings to look for a dragon before he passed from performing the ritual."

"So that was it." Saizo nodded.

Kagero thought before she said, "Perhaps milord would know, but I don't know. You would have to ask him yourself."

Corrin nodded, "That's what we're planning."

Takumi sighed, "Right. Hm? Natsuhiko? What are you do-! What is that?!"

Corrin turned her head and saw the man pulling apart pieces of the metal mechanism with a tool in hand.

"It's a gun." Corrin said with a grimace, "When we went to find Nanami, we came across her kidnapper. He had used the weapon and… killed the enemies. We didn't know what to do with the weapons, so I let Ron take it once it was disarmed."

"What?" Sakura looked up in shock, "The enemies-"

Corrin shook her head as she placed a hand on her shoulder, "Sakura, we need you to focus on Nanami right now, is that all right?"

Sakura looked to her in confusion before she hesitantly nodded, "Okay…"

"The esper is on the wagon." Natsuhiko said as the pulled out the long pipe of the gun, "No injuries. But, unconscious."

"Okay. Thank you!" Sakura replied before hurrying to the wagon in the distance.

Corrin turned to Kamui with a grimace, "I believe it would be too much for her."

Kamui frowned, "Regardless, we should give them a burial."

"What?" Takumi frowned, "But-"

Corrin shook her head, "Takumi… They were in the wrong place at the wrong time and encountered a wielder of an illegal weapon. I can't show you the scene, but I want to at least give them a burial."

Takumi shook his head with a sigh, "How bad is it, then?"

"Really, really bad, Lord Takumi." Kagero said with a frown, "I can only advise you to not look at it."

Natsuhiko spoke up, "That's what happens when you abuse the power of technology."

The man with the white coat grimaced in anger. Saizo frowned, "An illegal weapon? What is this?"

"A gun." Takumi answered with a sigh, "I can't believe that I'm saying this. Apparently, it came from another… world. There, they are illegal and my siblings have also place a ban on our soldiers using it. Now, only those two are allowed to hold on to it. They're foreigner to Hoshido, Saizo."

Kamui nodded, "Something happened and the Archduke told us that their gods sent them to these lands."

Corrin strained a smile, "Which was why you found Nanami in the castle gardens…"

"So the girl lived." The ninja said.

Kagero nodded, "Lord Ryoma would be pleased to hear this. He was worried about the child, after all."

Her colleague remained silent as she continued, "But… Natsuhiko, correct? What are you doing to a weapon illegal to… your world?"

Without looking to them again, he continued to take apart the machinery, "What does it look like? I'm disassembling it. If I do that, then it would lose its purpose. You wanted me to do something to prevent use or spread of them, correct?"

Kamui nodded, "We did. If they exist here as well, then these land would be nothing but a complete warfield."

"That sounds about right." Natsuhiko noted with a sigh, "That's exactly what happened to our world years ago."

"What?!" Corrin's eyes widen.

Azura, who had been silent for a long time, finally narrowed her eyes and said, "None of your friends ever spoke of your world till now."

Natushiko sighed, "Our world has a long history, after all, and many doesn't even know the half of it. So far, I've only told Mikoto."

"Mikoto?" Saizo's eyes finally widened.

Takumi nodded, "There's a woman amongst us, who has a similar barrier power as mother. Her name is Mikoto Kuga. Many of us just call her Kuga, though."

Kamui turned to Natsuhiko, "But what do you mean when you said that they don't even know the full history of their world?"

Natsuhiko grumbled, "If you're not part of the government they call 'The World'. Then, of course, they wouldn't know the truth. In reality, our world is just nothing, but a history full of wars. They want to incorporate technology into their wars and, as a result, the entire world became a battlefield too dangerous to even safely raise a child. But, those espers live a life where those days are long gone. It's a long winding history stuck in a loop after all."

"They don't know?" Kamui frowned, "Not their own history?"

Natsuhiko nodded as he struggled with a piece of metal, "I'm only telling you this now, because I don't want you to do the same. If you're going to use technology, use it for something like improving the lives of people, not for something like killing. Why do you think I still have my gun on me and that I'm disassembling these things?"

"Then, it's still ongoing?" Takumi frowned.

Natsuhiko paused before he continued onto the ammunitions, "Of course, because there's always some dumb enough to make them and sell it."

As his face turned sour, they stopped questioning the subject. Instead, Saizo questioned in a demanding tone, "Those things. How do they work?"

"Gun powder is one of the factors to shooting these things out." Natsuhiko said with an annoyed tone.

"Gun powder as if for fireworks?" Kagero noted in surprise.

He wiped a sweat off his forehead as he replied, "It has an impact when it explodes, right? That would be enough to shoot these thing through the cylinder."

He showed them the bullet before dropping it back into the bag, "They come in different sizes too. Mine being the average."

Kamui frowned, "Great. So, there're many kinds."

"Right." Natsuhiko sighed, "I've already completely took apart the rifle."

"A rifle…"

Natsuhiko nodded, "They have a history for hunting and has a long history aside for their purpose. But, this was used for war to mow down the front line."

Corrin shuddered at the thought, "You have our gratitude for taking it apart then, Natsuhiko."

"You're welcome." Natsuhiko sighed and was about to leave before he turned to them, "That's right. Ka-… Prince Kamui, I'd like to repurpose some of these parts for personal reasons."

As they hesitated, he quickly added, "Not for war or self-defense, but for convenience."

Kamui raised a brow, "Well… All right. What are you going to do with them though?"

"To make something for an acquaintance." Natsuhiko grinned to their surprise.

They watched the man leave them after that. Corrin smiled, "I never knew that he would be really close to someone."

"Me either." Kamui nodded.

---

YueTian: Yay! Done with this chapter! I wondered if Koharu would stay there in Windshire for a while. Who'd have thought I'd come up with this (And, honestly, I have no clue what to do next, but hope she gets a safe trip there.)?! Now, on to the next chapter as school comes in to a start for me by the end of this month. Well, I may continue working on this or think of the next chapter for the others. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter! I didn't think Natsuhiko would talk so much though.