Twisted Truths

Finally, they have returned to the castle. Everyone was worn from the battle. Everyone was clearly tired for the day as they began returning to the barracks or their duties. Nanami watched in confusion as she saw Leo having a conversation with Sakura. Since when have the two become so close? This was the difference after their little dream adventure. Lately, many who went have formed better relations amongst each other. She could see that between Hinoka and Nohr's crown prince. She feared what the princess's brother would think of this, but she suppose this might not be too much of a problem if the kingdoms are working together. However, with everyone forming better bonds with other, it has left her and her friends by themselves most of the time. With not much to do, she decided to go help Shukuri in the Mess Hall… If he doesn't make her sit in the corner again…

Koharu looked amongst the soldiers in confusion. With her friends of both worlds being so busy, she didn't really have much in plan while she have finished her shifts. As she passed by the statue of Hoshido's Dawn Dragon, she noticed Azama and Saizo rushing out the gates in a rush with some soldiers behind them. Amongst them was a few members of the royal families, like Hinoka and Elise. She watched in confusion when she noticed Leo and Sakura rush up to her as the mage said, "Koharu! Stay in the castle with everyone. Sakura and I will be back in a couple of days."

Koharu looked to them in confusion, "O-Okay! What's going on?"

"We're going to help Azama and Effie." Sakura replied, "It turns out that they have a child in one of the deep realms and it's being attacked by the enemies."

"What?!" Koharu gasped, "But, we just had a battle with the Invisible Soldiers."

"I don't know how." Leo grimaced, "But, they've started targeting their daughter. Honestly, I don't understand why he thinks it's okay to leave her like that."

"My sister's retainers are mostly like that usually." Sakura replied nervously, "But, they really are good retainers on the battlefield and means well."

Leo sighed, "If you say so… Let's go!"

Koharu watched the two rush through the gates where Lilith awaited them nervously.

"Be careful, Prince Leo, Princess Sakura!" She called out to them as Sakura returned her a wave, "A-And your collar's inside out again!"

"Damn it!" Leo cursed as he hurried to readjust it while they hurried along.

Having watched them leave, Koharu watched with uncertainty before looking to the statue. She wasn't sure if god ever existed, but she might as well offer a small prayer to the dragon deities here. Knowing the harsh conditions of wars, she silently prayed from their safe return and victory with the image of today's battle in mind. As she thought this, she recalled it. A hindrance… Though Laslow assured that she was no hindrance, she couldn't help but wonder if that's really true or if he's just being nice to her. Though she appreciates it, it wouldn't help in reality if she really was a hindrance to everyone. She looked to the ground and noticed the vines that had started to wrap around the statue base. If only she could speak to him again. What would he think?

It hadn't been long before she heard the sound of footsteps and horses by the gate. She looked up to see that Hinoka and her sister have returned. Following them was their retainers and a young girl she have never seen before. The woman was in a priestess outfit similar to the one Sakura had, but she have blond hair. It struck her odd as she recall that only few Hoshidans have blond hair. Curious, she timidly drew closer to the returning group. It was then that the girl saw her with a cautious frown, "Hm? Who's this?"

It was then that Koharu saw the unusual shine centered in her eyes. Effie made her way over in surprise as she smiled, "Ah. This is Koharu. She's an ally and close friends with Princess Elise."

As she petted the girl's shoulder, Effie looked to her with a nod, "Koharu, this is my daughter, Mitama."

"Daughter?" Koharu looked to her in bewilderment.

Effie blushed, "Yes, well. I had my marriage back at Azama's house. It was slightly complicated so it was a private marriage. Not many know about it because of that."

"Oh." Koharu glanced over to Mitama who looked to her with the same sparkling eyes, "Hello! M-My name is Koharu. It's nice to meet you."

"Hi! I'm Mitama." The girl smiled.

"Effie!"

The retainer looked up in surprise, "Oh! Lady Elise! Koharu, please show Mitama to a room. Mitama, get along with Koharu, alright?"

"Yes, mother." The girl sighed as she watched the retainer rush off to her liege.

Out of the blue, the girl pulled out a small notebook and an ink brush from, probably, mid-air and began to write with small mumbles.

Koharu looked to her in confusion, "Um… What are you doing?"

The girl looked up to her from her writing as Koharu noticed the brush works in the format as she wondered aloud, "Poetry? You like writing poetry?"

"It's a passion." Mitama replied with a smile, "So, uh, where's my room?"

"Oh!" Koharu hurried along to the castle, "Follow me."

As they made their way to the castle, Mitama spoke up, "How strange of a place./ Amongst many of great strength/ here stands a young girl."

Koharu looked to her in confusion, "Huh?"

Mitama smiled, "Well, there's all these strong people here, so why are you here with us? What do you do?"

Koharu looked to her nervously, "I… I help with the morning chores. I got sent here from another world. Since Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin said that they'll help us get back home, my friends and I wanted to help them for their offer."

"Another world?" Mitama wondered in question before a gasp and a lit up face followed, "Could it be-!"

Once again, she pulled out her notebook and began to write, "By the gods above!/ The stories stand before me!/ Mother did not lie!"

She looked to her with sparkling eyes, "Can it be! Are you an esper?!"

Koharu gave her a confused face, but nodded, "Y-yes? Effie told you about me?"

Mitama looked like she could barely contain her excitement as she nodded, "Yes! Mostly, to lecture me. Anyway, they told me all about the espers! Do you really have powers of great?"

Koharu stepped back in surprise from her enthusiasm, "G-great? I…"

Images of the past came to her again before she hesitantly answered, "Yes… But, I wouldn't call mine great…"

Seeing her hesitation, Mitama's eyes widen as she frowned, "Oh… Sorry. I can't believe it./ Forgotten the tales, I did!/ My apologies. Sorry, Koharu…"

"It's fine." Koharu struggled a smile, "I've just never seen someone so excited about it. So, are you here to help your parents?"

Mitama pouted, "Help, I'm afraid not./ For Father dragged me to help./ How I long for sleep."

As she wrote this down as well, Koharu struggled to piece it together as she frowned in confusion, "So, Azama brought you here against your will."

Mitama sighed, "Yes. I'd be happily snoozing at home, if not…"

"Oh." Koharu said curtly as she began to understand the situation.

As they approached the doors to the castle, Mitama looked around, "Hm? This is the castle that acts like a barrack?"

Koharu nodded, "Yeah. It's been like that since I came here."

"Really?" she noted as they made their way up the stairs.

After speaking with Jakob, Koharu led Mitama to her room. After sliding the door open, Mitama immediately walked in and placed her bag in the corner. The girl smiled, "Rather cozy for a small room. A table and my futon is here. Okay. Good night!"

Koharu watched in surprise as Mitama already had her futon out and snug in it. Koharu stood in front of the door uncertain of her next move before she head a sigh.

"I was right to come and see the situation."

She looked to her shoulder and saw Azama standing before the door with a frown. The monk saw her looking to him in surprise. He chuckled and waved, "Oh, Koharu! How about you leave this to me? You have some work to take care of, right?"

That's when she remembered.

"Oh, the Mess Hall!" Koharu gave him a curt nod, "Thank you for reminding me!"

As she made her way through the corridor, she glanced back once to see Azama enter the room with a grumble.

The next couple of days were full of movements. More soldiers had to leave or return to the castle. Without much certainty, Koharu finally made her way to the gates with Mikoto and Nanami. With everyone busy, they rarely got together for a chat like they once had before. Like today, they only made brief greetings promising to hold afternoon tea once thing have settled down again. Mitama yawned as she came up next to them. Koharu frowned with concern, "Did you stay up late again?"

Mitama nodded as she grumbled, "The poetry from Nohr was so interesting. I couldn't afford to waste time."

"Yet, you fall asleep in the morning." Mikoto sighed, "Well, we're not your parents, but just be mindful of your health, okay?"

"It's not like it'll inconvenience anyone if I fall asleep during the war council meeting." Mitama frowned, "Except for Father."

"But, it could inconvenience someone if they need your help on the battlefield." Nanami pointed out, "Be careful. The Silent Kingdom is a really unusual place."

Mitama looked to Lilith again in confusion, "I heard about Silent Kingdom from Father. Islands in the air./The land and sky flipped around./ A wonderous world!"

As she wrote it down, Koharu smiled. At least, that is rather accurate in a way. This was how she have spent most of her time on her breaks. With her friends too busy to talk with her, she spends it socializing with Mitama since she was rather close to her age. Possible around the same age as Nanami. That looks about right. In time, she was able to understand that the girl's love for poetry extends into her casual conversations. She always tries to find inspiration in their exchanges. Always keeping a brush and paper with her, Mitama jolts down poetry everyday. Koharu finds this rather interesting and enjoys watching her write them down in her little notebook. With Mitama's help, she was even able to catch on little pieces of words that was too difficult to interpret through the brushstrokes. Now, the two spends most of their time chatting as the girls learn little habits of each other. However, now Koharu worries if she would have enough energy to stay in the front lines. She prayed that nothing happens during their journey, but that's yet to be seen.

Their army have traveled for a few hours now. Finally, it wasn't long before they could go for a break. Taking a short snooze in the wagon, Koharu left the girl to her rest while she left for the others. Having returned to the group, Koharu could clearly see the distinct space that was brought between everyone and Anthony. She frowned in question, but was quiet before she felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Laslow give her a wink, "Hey. How about a cup of tea while we still have the chance?"

Behind him, Elise popped her head out and smiled, "We're going to have some tea too!"

Koharu nodded, "A-All right."

As she walked away, she looked back once to see Anthony look back to her with a glare. She shivered before suddenly feeling a hand behind her.

"May I join you, dear friends?"

It was Odin. Laslow sighed, "Well, it's not a big deal. Sure."

With this, the four made their way to a small part of the temporary camp and began preparing the tea. It was unusual to see a Princess make tea, but Elise insisted on doing so which made the retainers rather uncomfortable. Perhaps, Cassita taught her how? As Odin helped pour the tea, Laslow smiled, "Nothing like a cup of tea on a break from battle."

Koharu hummed in thought, "You always seem to have bags of tea with you. So, you really like tea?"

"No." Odin sighed, "It saddens me to say, but my archrival is on a life long quest of his own."

"Saddens?" Laslow frowned, "Shouldn't it be respect?"

"A quest?" Elise questioned with curiosity, "What kind of quest is it?"

"Uh…" Odin looked between her and Koharu, "It would be best if milady and Koharu doesn't know."

"Huh?" Elise frowned, "But, that just makes me want to know more! Can't you please tell me what it is? Maybe I can help!"

Laslow nearly choked on his tea. Finally managed his words out, he said, "It's fine, Lady Elise. A personal quest like mine would not be in your best interest, though I do appreciate your offer to help."

Muttering quietly, he continued, "And, milord would kill me if I brought his siblings into this…"

"Huh?" Koharu looked at him in confusion.

"Nothing! Nothing!" Laslow strained a chuckle.

"Laslow! Odin!"

They looked up and saw Selena rushed over to them with a scowl.

"Really?!" she scolded the men, "Now's not the time for tea! Lord Kamui and Lady Corrin needs our help!"

"Kamui and Corrin?" Elise jumped up in confusion.

"Lady Elise!" Selena gasped and quickly bowed, "I've tracked their movements. Your siblings have followed Anthony into the underground tunnels!"

Suddenly, Laslow jumped up with a grimace, "Is it that?"

Selena nodded with a grimace, "Yeah. They left a message saying that they followed the spy. If they've not yet returned, then they fell for a trap. They've been gone for a while now. Our lieges needs our help!"

The words shook Koharu as her mind tried to piece the words together. Laslow grimaced, "Damn it! I was afraid he'd try this move!"

"I'm going too!" Elise announced, "If Kamui and Corrin needs help, I'm going to help them!"

Laslow looked to the princess then to Selena in confusion before Odin said firmly, "Laslow return to your liege with Selena. I'll be there with Koharu."

The two retainers were hesitant, but Laslow nodded, "Thanks, Odin. Let's hurry."

Elise nodded and rushed after the retainers with her staff in hand. Koharu, finally pieced it all together, looked to Odin in deep confusion, "Anthony… was a spy?"

Odin looked to Koharu before he nodded and quickly dumped the content of the tea set. As he placed them in the bag with quick speed, he said, "It's the truth to be honest. I hope you weren't too disheartened over this, Koharu."

Koharu was stunned, but recovering as she frowned, "But, why?"

Odin shook his head as he took her hand and hurried through the ruins to the awaiting group, "I'm afraid I don't know the answer… But, we knew that something wasn't right the day we found him."

The response caught her off guard as she looked up to him, "Huh?"

Odin frowned, "We all know that the Silent Dragon hates humans, so why would he have a human squire under him?"

Koharu's eyes widen. He was right. All of the enemy she had seen were all invisible soldiers so why would Anthony be under the dragon if the dragon wants to destroy humanity. Seeing the things so far, it was certain that the dragon was merciless, so why is it that Anthony was able to escape after all these years under him?

"Unless," Koharu concluded hesitantly, "He's an… invisible soldier too?"

Odin smiled, "Mostly correct, Miss. A servant would be more appropriate."

"You knew this all along?" Koharu looked to him in surprise.

Odin stammered, "N-No! Haha… Of course not. Prince Leo and his siblings did."

Koharu nodded curiously, "Oh…"

"Is something the matter?" Odin frowned.

"N-Nothing…" Koharu hesitated, "It's just… this is the first time I've heard you talk so seriously before. It's a lot easier to understand what you're saying too."

Nearly tripping over his feet, the mage stammered, "R-R-Really? Well, Odin Dark can become just as serious when desperate times calls for desperate measures! Haha…"

Koharu wasn't too clear about the last part, but she nodded wishing that he had continued speaking as clearly as he had before.

"Odin!"

She looked up to see Leo rush over to them with Takumi and his retainers close behind.

"Do you know where the underground tunnel is?" Leo quickly asked.

Surprised with the sudden order, Odin nodded with a quick answer, "Y-Yes! We can go along this path, but we have to hurry!"

Huh? His words struck Koharu as slightly off. Niles frowned, "Odin… How did you know where the tunnel is?"

"Oh…" Koharu breathed in surprise.

No wonder something felt off. As Odin's eyes widen, Takumi grimaced, "Sorry. But, now's not the time to ask questions. Kamui and Corrin are in danger! Geez, those two!"

Odin looked to his liege with uncertainty.

"I know." Leo sighed, "Niles, it's fine. Also, Odin, we can talk about this later. Just watch over Koharu."

Leo jumped onto his horse as Takumi had already taken off past the ruins. Koharu hurried after the group with Odin pulling her along as support. It wasn't long before they saw Kamui and Corrin fighting against a group of Invisible soldiers with Anthony amongst them. Despite hearing the news, it was still a shock for her to see Anthony hold his spear against the twins. Already, Takumi shot an arrow at one of them coming from the rear as he shouted, "Kamui, Corrin, you should know by now that we won't leave you to fight alone!"

"Takumi!" Corrin's firm face lit up, "You follow us?!"

Just as she said this, another soldier came at them only to be struck by Leo's dark magic as the mage grumbled, "Yeesh… We told you we thought Anthony wasn't trustworthy. Though I suppose now is no time for 'I told you so'!"

Sound of hooves came from behind them as she could hear a voice.

"Koharu!"

She turned around and saw Mikoto and the others rush up behind them.

"You're safe, milord, milady!" Gunter sighed in relief, "Thank goodness. Please don't leave us behind!"

"You're all here!" Kamui breathed in relief with a smile.

Soon, a barrier was formed around her while Xander and Gunter rode past them and attacked Anthony much to her deep confusion.

"Blast it!" the boy cursed before he frowned, "Ugh… What? Wh-what's… happening?!"

His face twisted into horror as he pleaded, "King Anankos… please… Why… why are you… I… can still… defeat…"

A dark mist rose from the boy's body as he pleaded, "No… No… please… please… please don't… Not…"

He began to waver on his feet, but, before she could see what's occurring, Odin shielded her view. A scream broke out as it slowly turned into a bellow. Koharu shuddered in bewilderment uncertain of the situation and desperately tried to see what has occurred, but Odin seemed to be aware of her attempts and stopped her from doing so.

"You mustn't." he whispered.

It was unusual to hear a clear warning from the mage, which worried her more. She could hear gasps as a bellow sounded. Koharu looked around frantically. The royal family have already arrived and have jumped into the fray with their retainers as other soldiers followed suit. Without any time wasted, a battle have begun before her eyes. Seeing this, Odin quickly led her to near the wall of the tunnels. Led into the space between a wide lamp post and the wall, Odin whispered, "I'll be back! Just stay here for a bit."

Koharu hesitantly nodded as she watched him return to the battlefield. It wasn't long before she saw Sakura pushed back by a horrific monster in a mask. Seeing Leo kept busy, Koharu searched frantically for Odin before she saw the monster turn from Sakura's arrows and swept the prince into her. The two tumbled then crashed into the wall as Koharu gasped. Without waiting another moment, she jumped to her feet and rushed over to the two just as the dust began to lift. She thought she heard a shout as she reached the two, but it was muffled by the rumbling sound. She looked up just in time to see rocks crash down upon her.

When she opened her eyes again, she found herself in a familiar scene. Rocks circled around her as darkness came upon her. It reminded her much of the incident back in Cyrkensia. A groan broke her train of thought as she soon recalled what have happened. She hurried to her feet only to fit her head on the ceiling. Without much choice, she knelt down and called out to them, "Princess Sakura? Prince Leo?"

"K-Koharu? Koharu! W-We're here! We're over here!"

Hearing Sakura's frantic voice, she sighed in relief and began to crawl over to the direction of the voice with her hand against the wall.

"Princess Sakura? Koharu?"

The familiar voice caught her by surprise as she looked up just in time see notice the darker shadow moving against the darkness.

"P-P-Princess Camilla?" Sakura stammered.

As they moved towards the voice, she noticed the one shine of light from above. The canopy of… vines. She soon saw the princess frantically healing Leo who was motionless with his tome laying next to him. Sakura saw the two with teary eyes as she stammered, "H-He's breathing, but he's out cold… I'm healing him, but it's only first aid. I think he also broke some bones…"

Koharu saw Camilla nod, "I see. Are you all right, Princess Sakura?"

Sakura nodded nervously, "He helped cushion the impact…"

Camilla wore small smile, "That's good to hear. Leo wouldn't be too thrilled if he heard he failed. Still that was awfully reckless of him to attempt that."

The first princess picked up her brother's tome and opened it. Inside was full of characters Koharu was unable to decipher. Camilla scanned through it was a sigh, "Just as I thought. Only Leo would be able to use Brynhildr."

She looked up to the light and struggled to get up before falling back down with a wince.

"A-Are you all right?" Koharu gasped as she hurried to her side.

Camilla nodded, "Ah. Though I'm afraid I can't be of much help either. I think I twisted my ankle…"

Koharu frowned as she looked up to the vines. If this was his vines…

With the best of her abilities, she got up slowly and tried to push her way to the light, but the rocks surrounding them was too heavy for her and, in time, she gave up. She looked to them as Sakura whimpered, "Big Brother and Big Sister are out there fighting… I hope someone comes, but…"

They were quiet before a thought hit her. Quickly, she rummaged through her packet till she found the bundle of dry grass tied together. Seeing this, Sakura looked to her in question, "What's that?"

"Those grass!" Camilla looked to her in surprise, "Does anyone have a flint?"

The girls looked between one another before the answer was clear. Camilla frowned, "This isn't good. Those grass can give them the signal that we're here. A smoke signal."

"But, we don't have anything to light it with…" Sakura added.

There was a moment of silence as the battle roared outside. Koharu looked to the crack above them nervously as the thought lingered in her mind. Did they knew that this would happen? She hesitated in silence before she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned and saw Camilla nod, "Don't worry. We'll find a way out of this. So, you don't have to use it."

Koharu's eyes widen in surprise. Did she know about her abilities? But, Prince Xander and Prince Leo aren't the kind of people that would go around telling people of others. She looked to Sakura busy trying to heal the prince who had still not come to. Koharu looked to Camilla who was nursing her ankle quietly. Koharu looked about their little cave for another way. Minutes became an hour before she could see that there was little change to their condition. Camilla seemed to have gotten silent while Sakura looked worn out from the healing. Finally, she pulled out the grass again and looked to Camilla once more before glancing over to the younger royalties. She took a deep breath and began sorting the grass just as Hinoka had once told her.

"Koharu?" Camilla called out to her wearily.

Seeing her concentration and determination, Camilla signaled Sakura to move back. They took Leo and moved to the small corner of the cave. Koharu placed the grass under the mid-size crack and faced her palms at it with eyes tightly shut. Pink light shined around her as the orbits emerged. Before her chest, the shape of light appeared. As a small orb fluttered out and landed on the grass, their surroundings turned red as the orb shot out a small stream of flames upon the grass. Seeing this, Koharu quickly pulled back in a sigh of relief as the light and flames died away leaving a smoking blue signal smoke rising up through the crack in the ceiling.

"You're a… Pyrokinetic?" Camilla whispered with wide eyes as the thought came to her.

Her words stunned Koharu as she kept her eyes to the ground. Sakura elated upon the success held a bright smile as she shouted, "That was amazing!"

"Huh?" she looked up in surprise and saw the smiles on the women's faces.

Camilla nodded in approval as Sakura nearly gave her a hug before pulling back in embarrassment.

"Look! A blue smoke!"

"It's Koharu!"

Upon hearing a familiar voice, Sakura gasped, "Hinoka! Hinoka! We're over here!"

It took hours before Koharu and the others were dug out of the debris. Leo and Camilla was immediately taken to the other healer. Koharu was soon brought with them as well. It turns out that, during the collapse, she was hit in the head by one of the debris and had been bleeding for a while. When she came to, three days had passed and it was a surprise nobody questioned how she was able to get them out, but it was better that they never knew. It wasn't long after they returned to the camp Leo soon came to before she did that the siblings decided to hurry over to check on Kamui and Corrin.

It wasn't long after the militia was on the surface again that they continued to march forward to the castle before Corrin decided to bring everyone back to the astral realm. She didn't really know what happened after, just that three days had passed since the battle and that Toya had a lecture ready for her. But, she knew for certain was that Anthony was longer anywhere to be seen after that day, not even in the prisons.

Having gone to another realm with Azura and her family, Nanami and Shukuri had walked for a couple of days before they found themselves in a small town full of people and children running about. Taking this chance, Nanami watched the children play in the water. People greeted them group warmly with bright smiles as they passed by the farms and shops. In time, they soon found themselves before a large Hoshidan home. Nanami watched on as Kamui knocked on it. There was a moment of silence as Camilla whispered, "Hm, doesn't it feel a little quiet here?"

"Quiet?" Sakura noted softly, "I-I don't think so…"

In time, one of the double doors opened as they were greeted by a woman, "Prince Kamui! Princess Azura! You've returned!"

Quickly, both doors were opened as a child rushed out with a bright smile.

"Mother! Father! Welcome back!"

The boy had a child smile as Kamui picked up the boy and the group walked into the front garden. Kamui chuckled, "It's good to see you again, Shigure! How have you been?"

As the parents set the child down, Nanami stared as she could see the similarities. From his appearance, the most striking was his blue hair and yellow eyes. Seeing this, Nanami noted, "His hair and eyes are like his mother…"

"She is the mother." Shukuri shrugged.

Leo sighed as he took a seat on a nearby bench with Camilla, "Well, a child does take after the parent, but…"

Camilla nodded with a chuckle as she cooed, "He's so cute! I was expecting a mini Kamui, but it's like seeing a younger Azura."

As Azura blushed, the boy looked to them in confusion. Kamui chuckled, "I was hoping to be here for his previous birthdays, but, at least, we made it to his fifth. Shigure, this is our little brother, Leo, little sister, Sakura, and big sister, Camilla."

Azura petted his shoulder with a smile, "They're your uncle and aunts."

"Uncle and Aunts?" the boy repeated in awe as he stared at them before hiding behind his mother.

Azura strained an awkward smile, "He's a little shy around new people."

"O-Oh…" Sakura noted quietly, "H-Hello…"

"G-Greetings…" the boy stammered.

"Aw. There's nothing to be scared of." Camilla said with a big smile and open arms, "I don't bite. How give your aunt a hug?"

With a little coaxing and support from the parents, the boy timidly gave Camilla a hug while Camilla nearly smothered her nephew in hers. Seeing this, Corrin struggled a smile as she said, "C-Camilla? I think that's a little tight on him…"

"Oh! Sorry, sweetie." Camilla said and put the boy back down from her lap, "Happy Birthday!"

Leo sighed as he rolled his eyes, "I knew this would happen."

He then looked to the boy and smiled, "Well. Happy Birthday, Shigure."

"Th-thank you…" the boy replied before returning to his mother.

Camilla giggled, "I see he's a mommy's boy. So cute!"

Kamui chuckled, "Yes. He enjoys playing indoors more than outside too. He paints really well for his age too. Oh! I need to go speak with the caretakers too. I'll be right back."

As he hurried into the house, Nanami noticed the boy looking to her quietly. She was really nervous as he stared at them. Seeing this, Azura walked over to him with a smile, "This is our friends, Shigure. Nanami and Akito."

"Friends of Mother and Father?" Shigure looked up to Azura as she nodded.

"That's right."

There was a moment of silence as thoughts came to her. Was he scared of her? Or just that shy? She just hoped that he grows up safely. Perhaps away from her. She gave him a slight nod as Akito waved, "Hi."

Like that, their awkward greeting went on before they decided to help make the meals for his birthday. Azura decided to help as well making her son's favorites while his aunts and uncle keeps an eye on the child. However, as usual, it wasn't long before Akito told her to just wait outside after she was about to throw in some of her herbs into the pot of soup. Before this became an argument, Azura walked up to them with a smile, "Actually, can you watch over Shigure for me, Nanami? He doesn't cause any trouble, but I just worry he might need some help later."

Nanami hesitated but slowly nodded and made her way into the halls. Looking around the place as she made her way to the child's room, she could see that the building resembled much of Hoshido or old mansions of Japan. She suppose it was natural since the family did descend from a Hoshidan background in some way. After finding her way to the room, she spotted the child at the table with a brush in hand. He watched in awe as the little boy moved his hand in a steady motion. His arm shook a little, but he is still just a child. Nanami walked inside to find Camilla and Sakura watching the young boy from a distance. With the need of time to treat the injury they sustained during the battle, the siblings decided to make use of the event and visit their nephew while they still have the chance. Sakura stayed with them to help treat the injuries with her staff hoping to speed the process. As she took a seat by them, the boy got up with a smile.

"Oh, you're done?" Camilla asked with a grin.

Shigure nodded. Camilla and Sakura walked over to the table and looked at the painting. Nanami did the same. It seemed sloppy, but it was rather distinct. Sakura smiled, "Oh! The bamboos in the back!"

"Now, that you said it." Camilla smiled, "I see now. So, this is Hoshido's art. This is really good!"

Shigure smiled as Camilla petted him on the head. Seeing them together like this, Nanami looked around as she noticed the absence of the uncle. Camilla saw this and said, "I'm afraid Leo is having a private conversation with Kamui. How about you leave him to his work? Beruka"

The retainer rushed in and bowed, "Yes, milady?"

"Have the gifts been in the main room?"

"It's done, milady." Beruka replied.

Camilla smiled with a nod, "Wonderful. Now, I most join my siblings for a bit. I'll be back in a bit, okay?"

Shigure nodded, "Yes, Aunt Camilla."

Kamui was seated at large stone table with Leo. The two instructed two people to be seated across from them before Camilla soon entered the stone room and took a seat next to Leo. Finally, Kamui started, "Odin, Selena. I'm sure you understand why we called you here."

Selena was visibly nervous while Odin was uncharacteristically calm, which unsettled them, as they nodded. Kamui was quiet before he turned to his siblings, "Camilla, you said that Laslow, Selena, and Odin were assigned to you and my brothers by King Garon?"

The Princess nodded, "Yes. It was unusual during that time. All three of them just magically appeared in the throne room that day. I remember that it was probably a few years after you were adopted into our family."

Leo sighed, "They were lucky Father didn't care too much and assigned them to us. We didn't have much of a say to it back then, but it's not like it's any problem."

Kamui frowned, "I-I see. No wonder… Do you recall the mission we set out on with Nyx's and the Espers' aid?"

"Of course, milord." Odin replied.

Kamui took a deep breath before he continued, "We met a man who claimed to be the former right hand man and tactician of the invisible kingdom's king. He went by the name… Reflet?"

Selena nearly gagged and coughed for a bit while Odin's jaw nearly dropped. However, they quickly maintained themselves before he nodded. Leo sighed, "Spot on, then? So, he was the one who brought you to Nohr's castle?"

"Uh… he told you that too?" Odin winced.

"Seriously?" Selena grumbled quietly though they heard it loud and clear.

Camilla smiled, "Oh yes. He fessed up many things. Like how he brought you three from another world for the sole purpose of stopping a dragon."

Odin frowned, "That… was true. My apologies, milord. We were instructed not to tell a soul about any of this."

"Does Father know?" Camilla asked.

"No, milady." Selena replied with a grimace, "It was just dumb luck that he agreed to make us retainers."

"Really?" Odin raised a brow, "But I thought we sounded convincing."

"No…" Selena groaned, "It was really dumb luck that we were able to convince the king, Odin."

Kamui strained a smile knowing that, at least, they are honest. He continued, "We heard everything. How you came to Nohr in search of Azura, when you were suppose to be in Hoshido."

"Huh?" Odin raised a brow, "Oh, right! Y-Yeah… We came in search of the princess of the Hidden royal family, but got sent to Nohr instead. Haha…"

Leo raised a brow and nodded, "Okay… Then, you'd know where Azura's relatives are?"

The two retainers stopped their bicker and turned to them as Selena stammered, "W-Well…"

Odin grimaced, "We do, but… I'm afraid they passed away really recently…"

"What…" Kamui grimaced, "H-How?"

"The enemy got to them first." Odin answered.

"Oh no." Camilla gasped, "Then, we were too late?"

"Who is it?" Leo narrowed his eyes.

"That's…" Selena grimaced.

"Queen Arete's younger sister." Odin answered, "We were told that she traveled to Hoshido in search for aid and shelter, but, after their former king was assassinated, she could only help protect the kingdom. She was one of the few surviving relatives left."

"Do you know her name?" Kamui raised a brow, "Maybe we can pay her some respect, at least."

Odin and Selena gave subtle side glances at each other before Selena finally answered, "Well, there's really no other way to say it… Queen Arete's younger sister was… Well, Q-Queen Mikoto."

There was a couple of gasps as all eye turned to Kamui.

"What?!" Kamui's eyes widened, "Mother? But, then-! That would make me and Azura…"

"Cousins…" Camilla finished with a grimace, "Oh gods, no… Then, her aunt is dead…"

Leo frowned, "Kamui…"

The prince grimaced, "We can't tell Azura this… Maybe in the future, but…"

He looked to the house outside the window, "Not right now…"

The siblings nodded in silence. Finally, Kamui spoke, "So, you never left Nohr for Hoshido? Why?"

Odin chuckled, "Well, we just weren't certain where Princess Azura was in the castle. So… we just wanted to be sure before we think our next move. But, then our lieges joined Lord Kamui and we found Lady Azura, so…"

"It was all a big coincidence basically." Selena quickly concluded.

"Is that so?" Kamui raised a brow.

"Well." Leo sighed, "What kind of world did you actually come from?"

"Well." Odin grinned, "We came from a doomed worl- Ow!"

Selena grumbled with a frown before she answered with a sigh, "W-Well, it's really, really complicated. And, we won't make you believe us, but…"

Leo sighed, "After all this, what else can surprise us now?"

"Uh, time-travel?" Odin replied.

Leo grumbled regrettably while Camilla tries to console him with a pat on the back.

"So, you're from the future?" Kamui raised a brow.

"Our world's future, actually…" Selena said.

"We didn't say we don't believe you." Camilla replied with a nod, "I am curious why Reflet would choose you three, after all. He said that you slayed a dragon…"

"It wasn't actually us, though we did take part in the war." Selena grumbled.

"Another war." Leo frowned as he glanced over to Odin, "No wonder…"

Selena nodded, "In our world and time, the royal family of our world came from a lineage of a hero that had slayed a dragon and started our kingdom. But during the former ruler's rule, our neighboring kingdom resurrected the dragon and started another rule with an army of undead soldiers. Our parents served in the war and perished while we were young. When we served in the royal family, the kingdom have already become the size of a town and the militia was even smaller."

"So you time traveled to the past?" Leo said.

"Not until the dragon and his army destroyed the last of humanity, but us and what remains of the royal family, milord." Odin replied, "By then, there was no humans left to protect, so we went to our diety to find a way to stop the evil dragon. But she couldn't defeat the dragon either."

"Why is that?" Leo frowned, "He's a dragon and your diety is a god."

"The dragon is called the god of destruction for a reason." Selena muttered with a grimace, "He's evenly matched to our goddess in power till he destroyed everyone apparently."

"I see. So, she sent you back in time." Camilla said.

"Yes!" Odin smiled, "She sent us, warriors, into the past before the war to aid my-"

He was quickly silenced by Selena who seemed to have either kicked or hit him under the table before she continued, "That's right. We joined up with the original royal army and helped kill the dragon. But, we weren't the one who killed it. That time's ruler did."

"Great." Leo smiled, "So why did he chose you three… and not the ruler?"

Selena grimaced, "There was a reason for this. A- Reflet was in a rush and didn't have time to get them. Instead, he just started shouting over the castle wall for help and we just happened to be there. No full story or persuasion. Just to help him save his kingdom."

"So you accepted a man that cried for help?' Leo raised a brow.

"These guys did…" Selena grumbled.

"Well, why should we turn down a person in need of help?" Odin asked, "It's the right thing to do-"

"That got us into another world and lost against a dragon before being sent to another kingdom we have no idea about." Selena intercepted, "Think a little more, Odin. Anybody would've thought to turn that down at least once before accepting."

"Okay…" Kamui raised a brow.

Camilla chuckled, "So, why did you decide to go with them, Selena?"

The woman frowned, "Honestly, my best friend would be sobbing for days if something happened to her cousin and her younger brother and they always gets themselves in trouble when we were young. So, I followed them."

"Huh." Kamui said in slight surprise, "So, Laslow and Owain are cousins. Never knew that. And, you've been serving under my siblings since then?"

"Well…" Selena grumbled, "I actually never really thought about returning home. We don't really have parents or a home to return to, you know. The time-travel thing is a one time occurrence. I also would like to continue serving under Lady Camilla."

"Really?" Camilla smiled, "It'd be wonderful if you stayed as my retainer. In fact, I was about to ask you that too."

Her word caught them in surprise while Leo sighed, "This isn't an interrogation. We also don't have any intention to take your positions from you just because you kept such an important secret from us. As long as it's nothing that we should be knowing about and can know about, of course."

Odin's eyes widen, "T-Then-!"

Kamui chuckled, "You're not leaving your lieges for this. We promise. As long as my siblings still wish for you to be their retainers, you'll stay as their retainers. I certainly have no say in the matter either since you're also not my retainers. So, rest assured."

"So, how about it?" Camilla chuckled, "Did I not have the conversation with you rather recently, Selena?"

"Y-Yes, milady!" Selena grimaced but soon smiled, "I'd be happy to continue serving under you, Lady Camilla."

"I did say I'd prefer if you remain as my retainer." Leo said with a sigh, "I'm not going to repeat the rest of our conversation."

"Of course milord." Odin grinned widely.

Like this the conversation soon came to a peaceful end with no more big secrets to keep from each other. Seeing this, Kamui was finally able to take his leave as his siblings also began to prepare to return to the house where their nephew waited for them. As Kamui and his retainers left, Leo grabbed a hold of Odin's shoulder with a frown, "Odin. I know you tell the truth, but…"

As his sister and Selena watched in surprise, he continued, "That part of coming to Nohr to look for Azura… that was a lie, wasn't it?"

"W-Wha-…" the mage froze before seeing his eyes.

As Selena frowned, he grimaced as he weakly answered, "Y-yes, milord…"

Camilla's eyes widen as she heard this, "Then…"

"We actually came looking for Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin…" Selena clarified, "W-We promised Reflet that we wouldn't tell them the truth to protect them from King Garon and the situation."

Hearing this, Leo sighed, "I thought so. Why would he make you promise that when they left Nohr after that day?"

"I don't know as much, but he said that Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin are destined to stop the enemy." Selena responded.

"Well, that's interesting." Niles smirked.

"I thought the Yato was something that special." Camilla frowned, "Now, I see why."

Leo nodded, "If Father heard this, he would try more than just imprison Kamui and Corrin."

"Leo keep this a secret from them." Camilla said, "If we told then now, it might become a heavier burden on them. If they are really fated to stop the mastermind, then we shouldn't tell them."

"I know." Leo nodded, "I know."

"Still, I wonder." Camilla smirked and turned to them with a change in topic, "The world you came from… What was your kingdom like, Selena?"

Selena pondered, "Well, in the timeline we helped save, it's much like Nohr, but it's not always dark or that we had any underground cities. Our ruler also goes by the title Exalt. We don't really have a title for our queen, though. Just the Exalt's wife."

"Interesting." Camilla smiled, "Your family must be really strong too, then."

"Well, that's true…" Selena frowned, "But, I don't really take after them in their skills. My mother is a talented Pegasus knight and my father is very well-known in the castle… But, I don't really have any of their talents."

"Really?" Odin raised a brow, "I'm pretty sure you take after your father's swordplay."

"That's you, Odin. Not me." Selena replied bluntly, "And I'm certain if you weren't gifted some abilities in magic when we got here, you'd still be stuck using the Killing edge like your father."

"Huh." Leo raised a brow, "So, you didn't start out as a mage to begin with. Interesting."

Camilla giggled, "I feel like we'll get to know each other a little better after today."

Though it's a nice gesture, they couldn't help, but shiver as the words came from her lips.

The birthday party was nice. Nothing too fancy that one would expect from a royal family, but the child was born in this realm for his protection, so it'd make sense. Nanami watched from a distance with Shukuri, though the child did approach them many times. Being around the child made her feel slightly insecure at times as she worried of getting close to the child, but Shukuri didn't seem to mind. The only trouble was that Shigure seemed curious about them more than his aunt and uncle. He always watched them from a distance at times too, which made her even more nervous. To cope with this, she tries to stay close to Shukuri and Azura, though he seemed to like being with them to. After the party was over and she helped Shukuri bring out the tea and snacks. With curiosity, Leo asked, "Shigure is five now, right? Has he thought about what he wants to do in the future?"

The question caught them by surprise as Kamui looked to Azura, "You know, we haven't really talked about that, yet. I can imagine him as a Sky knight, though."

"A Sky knight?" Corrin's eyes widen in surprise, "What makes you say that, brother?"

"Ah, you see, pegasus are the ones who choose their master." Azura answered, "Hinoka met hers when she was brought to the stables once. A few months ago, Shigure also met a Pegasus and was chosen when the caretakers took him to the fields."

"That's right." A servant in a kimono nodded with a bright smile, "I heard that a foal would be born on that day and Lord Shigure really wanted to see the foal."

Kamui chuckled, "So, we gave him permission and got back a message saying that he formed a bond with the foal."

"Then, he has a Pegasus?" Camilla chuckled, "At such a young age, that's impressive."

"We're going to keep him here till the war is over, or he's old enough to leave." Kamui explained, "I don't want the children to take part in the war, after all."

Leo sighed, "Who'd have thought we'd run into this problem during a war…"

"At least, Lilith was able to help us hide the children." Corrin grinned.

"You can say that again…" Leo groaned, "I never knew that my sister's retainer was married or even had a child till now."

"Sorry, Leo." Corrin strained a smile, "We kind of forgot to tell you. But, speaking about that, that is also a problem. Now that they've found out that Mitama is a child of our militia, there's a possibility that others may come for Shigure as well."

The atmosphere soon grew tense as Camilla frowned, "You're right. It took them less than a few weeks to find Mitama."

Kamui said, "In here, everyone knows about Shigure and is kind enough to take him in and hide him. But, if they come here as well, the people will also be in danger. The problem now is that Hayato's daughter could also be in trouble."

Leo sighed, "With the children coming into our time, things have certainly gotten more difficult. Not to mention, the number of attacks on the surface have also increased dramatically since we arrived in that place. No doubt, the enemy is trying to slow us down."

As he said this, Kamui looked to Azura who nodded and began to take the young Shigure out of the room to his bed. The child is too young to worry over these matters. Seeing the teapot empty, Nanami took the pot back into the kitchen for a refill, leaving the harsh matters to the veterans. To her, it was all new as well. She had never known that Hinoka's retainer was married to Elise's retainer in the short time they were together nor that they had a child hidden away like Shigure. It was certainly a surprise to hear of this. As the water was boiling in the kettle, she began to hear a familiar voice. It was Azura's song. Alongside the words followed that of a higher voice. Nanami listened in awe as she realized that the child have certainly inherited Azura's talent for music. A small smile formed on her face as she listened. Children, huh? There was a sigh as footsteps entered the room, "You're going to boil the kettle dry, idiot."

She saw a hand reach over and took the kettle off the stove. Nanami looked up and saw Shukuri refill the pot and set the kettle back on the stove. Without a single glance to her, he walked out of the room in a hurry.

"Oh, you made it?"

"Yeah." Shukuri answered, "It's fine, right? You'd make better coffee anyway and you have to stay by Princess Corrin's side."

"That's… true." Jakob sighed, "Fine. Just this once. Also, is something wrong? You're kind of re-"

"I-I'm fine!" the other stammered before he returned to the kitchen.

Nanami could visibly see that his face was slightly red and frowned. She approached him and touched his forehead.

"Wh-What are you doing?!" Akito snapped.

"You're a little warm…" Nanami frowned, "A cold?"

"Of course not!" He turned and left the room with brisk steps.

Nanami frowned and thought of the herbs in her bag, but remembered how much he disliked them. However, it was herbs, so-

"Is he always like this?"

Nanami looked to the entrance and saw Kaze walk in with a raised brow as he looked to the back entrance with a look of concern.

Nanami nodded, "It's fine. Is Prince Kamui still speaking with his siblings?"

Kaze nodded, "Not for serious matters, though. So, Lady Azura is singing her Lord Shigure."

Nanami placed the kettle of water back on the stove, "Yes. Princess Azura really likes to sing."

"You're right." Kaze replied, "I've hardly seen her without doing so a day. According to the caretakers, Lord Shigure also does the same."

Nanami frowned at the thought of the child, "Will… will he also have to learn how to wield weapons?"

Kaze frowned as he nodded, "That's right. It's probably not common in your world, but this is the reality here. We start learning to use weapons at a young age to protect ourselves and others. It was the same for me and my brother, but younger. I believe Lord Shigure would have to learn how to wield Naginatas in time. That's what all Sky knight wield."

Nanami didn't say a word as she thought of the child holding a blade in his hands. As a child from a lineage of ninjas, it was normal for her to learn to wield the kunai and shurikens, but she knew it was different for others. Speaking of which, when did Azura learn to use the naginata? Or when Kamui and Corrin learn to use the sword? Perhaps it would do everyone good if the war ends as soon as it can. For the children's sake.

Koharu was still in the infirmary as Elise applied the bandage around her head.

"There all better!" Elise grinned.

"Th-Thank you." Koharu nodded with a smile.

"No problem. Just let me know if you start feeling dizzy again!" Elise smiled.

Koharu nodded. After they were rescued from the rubble, Koharu had passed out from blood loss. When she woke up, three days had passed and she was met with a weeping Sakura, who apologized profusely. The sight made her very, very uncomfortable as she tried to calm her down. In the end, Corrin had helped settle things out. But, not long after that, Kamui had taken Azura and their siblings to see his son in the deeprealms leaving the castle in their elder brothers' care and her condition with Elise. It had been a while since she last suffered from an injury like this. To be honest, it was all really unusual for her to stay in the infirmary for a couple days when she felt just fine. Mikoto and Mitama came to see her a few times too, though the two didn't seem to be getting along as well. At least, Azama seemed rather pleased to see his daughter put effort into seeing her. After that, she was finally allowed to help Mikoto take care of Mozu's fields, but was only given the job of moving items around and the placement of the equipments. Takumi seemed rather depressed too. She wondered if something happened while she was asleep, but Mikoto just said everything was fine. Still, it seemed that Takumi was in a meeting with his siblings and Prince Xander. For some reason, her brother specifically told her to stay in the infirmary much to the princess's dismay. As Elise tried to mimic Odin's speech, Koharu giggled. Since returning from the battle, she have gotten to know Elise and the retainers a little better. Elise seemed to really like Odin too. He really is a strange person to be around, but it wasn't a bad thing. But, after seeing the two together so often before he left, she wondered if there was more going on between the two.

Xander sighed as he leaned back against the chair. There was a moment of silence as the prince watched Laslow. For some reason, Takumi chose against speaking out during the entire conversation, but his face said it all for them. Finally, Ryoma broke the silence, "So, this was what Mother was unable to tell us."

"But, why?" Hinoka grimaced, "If Azura is really our cousin, then why didn't she tell us?"

"The curse." Takumi frowned, "It has to be that. But, that would mean that mother was the only relative Azura had too…"

Xander listened to them before he raised a brow, "You don't seem as surprised as your siblings, Prince Ryoma."

"I'm not." The prince replied, "At least not on account of Kamui's and Corrin's history. I know they're not blood related to us from the start."

"What?" Takumi's eyes widen, "Then, why didn't you tell us?"

"Because our father didn't want them to feel any less loved than the rest of his children, so he only told me, and me alone, the truth." Ryoma answered, "But, I was never told anything in regards to their lineage. Perhaps, Father also knew about their lineage."

"So, that's it." Hinoka sighed, "I see now. That is something he'd do. But, why didn't mother tell father that her sister was Former Queen Arete?"

"I don't know." Ryoma shook his head, "It's possible that Father didn't know that either when our kingdoms were trying to form a treaty."

Xander nodded, "Even in the castle, none of us know anything about her. With no background, Azura's mother wasn't well liked by the people in the castle either, though they did nothing to harm us. I don't know the situation as well. But, it's safe to say that things got worse for Azura after her mother passed. I wish I could say that things were as peaceful in the castle as it could outside of it, but that's not really the truth. We have our share of problems inside of our homes."

"Seriously?" Takumi grimaced, "It was that bad?"

Xander frowned, "Not the proudest thing to say, I understand, but it is the truth. However, our father had never said a word of her looking for help either. I wonder why is that?"

"It's a mystery, but, considering what happened to King Garon, it's possible that there was some kind of interference." Ryoma said with a frown.

Xander nodded, "Though, I'm curious why you didn't say anything till now."

"W-Well, my apologies, milord." Laslow grimaced, "I knew that Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin was on to the picture after the battle in Cyrkensia, but, Odin and I didn't want to leave our lieges in Krakenburg castle. That and we didn't know how to get back to the enemy's kingdom."

"You're kidding…" Takumi groaned, "Then, you could've helped persuade the Nohrian royal family at that battle!"

"No." Xander shook his head, "It was a good thing Laslow didn't speak up that day."

"Why is that?" Hinoka frowned.

"Not long after we returned to the castle, Leo and I learned that my father's retainers were spying on us that day. The men you fought off at the Bottomless Canyon." Xander explained, "If he had let it slip that something was going on, Hans and Iago would immediately report it to our Father. Laslow would've been taken away and imprisoned or worse. In fact, it was because of their conversation about the battle being overheard that Elise decided to come join Kamui and Corrin. All of their plans were brought to our retainers before she disappeared from the castle."

"Then, you knew that they were coming to stop them that day." Ryoma said in thoughts.

"No. We figure it out after our soldiers reported seeing them leave the castle that morning." Xander replied, "They were also after the espers as well, so we hid Koharu away from them and brought her with us. I didn't think Senri would vanish with Elise when we realized that she had gone from the castle."

"She's a straight forward and honest child." Ryoma complimented with a smile.

"Sakura left the capital as soon as she heard Kamui's and Corrin's words." Hinoka grinned, "She strongly believed in them just like the rest of us. It's a good thing that we stopped the king's retainers, though. Right now, the king is probably still fighting against Hoshido."

Xander nodded, "If we're going to stop the war, we have to do it fast and free him from the enemy's control. Laslow, do you know the way to the castle, then?"

"I know the way to their basement." Laslow responded with a smirk, "I may have stolen an old map from that place when I was escaping the castle. But, I can't guarantee if they made any changes or if it's heavily guarded now. It's been a few years since we last been there. In fact…"

He took out an old rolled up paper from his bag and set it carefully on the table with a chuckle, "I dug it out from my stuff after that battle. Thought it might come in handy one day if I lived."

Takumi's eyes widen, "How did you…!"

Laslow grinned, "My father was an impressive leader himself. He and his tactician kept drilling into my head that any clues to the enemy can be turned against them, no matter the significance of it."

"Is that so?" Xander chuckled, "This is the first time I've heard you ever speak about your past."

"I'd like to keep my secrets, milord, but this is a serious matter in the end." Laslow sighed, "And the timing was fitting, so why not?"

Takumi frowned as he opened the roll of paper, "It's blank!"

"That's because it's drawn with a special ink, Lord Takumi." Laslow answered, "It'll show itself under a heat source."

Immediately, Kagero brought a lamp over to the table. Familiar with the idea, they placed the paper over the lamp as the paper began to show them a floor map of what looked to be the castle's interior.

"It's as just like he said." Ryoma nodded, "This shows the entire layout of the castle."

"When did you find the time to get the map?" Takumi frowned in confusion, "This map has the entire layout as if it was from the people who built it!"

Laslow strained a smile, "I just found the room that looked like it could be a tactician's and grabbed the first thing I saw on the table. Selena wouldn't let me stay there long enough to look through all of it."

"Well, you were escaping, so I find it weird why you would want to stay in the place of your pursuers." Hinoka sighed, "But, thank you for turning this in to us, Laslow. I'm surprised King Garon allowed you to be retainers."

Takumi frowned, "According to what Prince Leo told me, they just appointed them on the spot. But…"

"They just suddenly appeared in the throne room of the castle by some form of strange magic and requested to by retainers to my father." Xander said with a frown, "Thinking back now, they were certainly fortunate he didn't decide to throw them into the dungeon."

"Talk about luck." Takumi grimaced.

Ryoma raised a brow before he looked to the window of the room, "Takumi… Where are your retainers?"

"Huh? They're outside in the fields." Takumi frowned, "Wait… is that smoke?"

Ryoma strained a smile, "Perhaps, you should go check on them…"

"Just leave this to us, Takumi." Hinoka grinned with a wave.

"Urgh… Sorry about this…" Takumi grumbled, "And thanks."

He soon rushed out the door as Hinoka turned to Ryoma, "Ryoma, what is it that you want to talk about?"

Xander raised a brow as he looked to Hinoka in confusion. She turned to him and explained, "Rinkah is on cooking duty today. The field is behind the Mess Hall."

Putting the two together, Xander turned to the High prince, but the prince was glancing over to his retainer. Laslow strained a smile, "P-Prince Ryoma?"

"Laslow, you said that you were sent to Nohr by mistake, but I not sure if it really was a mistake…" Ryoma frowned, "Azura's abduction wasn't the only thing that occurred that time."

Xander frowned, "Kamui and Corrin… Since their biological mother is Queen Mikoto who is also from the royal family, shouldn't they also catch the enemy's eyes?"

Hinoka's eyes widen, "Not to mention that both have the ability to use the Yato!"

Ryoma nodded, "Till now, no one has became the wielder of Yato since the war of the twelve dragons, yet why now? We all know what the Yato's purpose is too. Also, if King Garon wanted to brainwash our siblings, why didn't he do anything when Prince Xander and his siblings came to take him back?"

Xander frowned, "At that point, Father also gave a blade to Kamui that would later take Queen Mikoto's life and start the war between our kingdoms. But, he didn't care as much when we entered Hoshido. None of us told him that it was to save Kamui and Corrin. He also must've known about their lineage from the enemy… Hold on, this outlook of the events… The fact that he didn't tell us to stop them instead of fighting against Hoshido."

Hinoka frowned, "Nobody came after Azura back in the castle too. Not a single invisible soldier."

Xander sighed, "Kamui and Corrin are also safe in the castle fortress since young and I was put in charge of his training. Nothing out of the ordinary occurred during those days. Not even Father's retainers came to see them. But, with their lineage, why would he set me in charge of their training? Unless… Laslow, did the mage really sent you to Nohr by accident?"

"W-Well…" the retainer stammered slightly taken aback of the situation.

With all eyes on him, he grimaced, "No… In truth, we were there to watch over Prince Kamui and Princess Corrin. Reflet had the power to foresee the future and told us that he saw that they would stop the mastermind. So, he told us to go to Nohr and become retainers so we can ensure their safety during the ambush. We were never told that Princess Azura was Queen Arete's child when we arrived. Our main focus was to make sure that the twins were in safe hands in Nohr."

"So, that's it." Xander sighed, "You do realize that Kamui and Corrin weren't in the best of hands when our father visited them."

"My apologies, milord." Laslow winced, "We didn't know that they would be the children we were looking for. Reflet never had the chance to tell us their names. We didn't know till Lord Kamui and Lady Corrin was taken back to Hoshido."

"So, that's it." Hinoka sighed with a smile, "But, at least, that means, even if something were to happen, they were safe this whole time."

Ryoma nodded, "So, Reflet really wasn't being completely honest, but why? Was it because Azura was present?"

"I don't know." Laslow grimaced, "My apologies. When I first heard what he told you, I just decided to follow along with what he said. But, I can assure you that he is not the one we should be against."

"Was there anything else he changed, then?" Xander frowned but nodded.

"No." Laslow shook his head, "He only told us the situation, and that we can't tell anyone outside of the place."

Xander thought in silence before he turned to Ryoma, "Prince Ryoma, I believe in my retainer's words. If this is all he knows, then I trust his words."

Ryoma nodded, "I agree. I can already tell that he's devoted to what he does and his thoughts are in the right place. Let's leave this here, then. We'll inspect the map and talk with Kamui and Corrin once they're back, which probably isn't going to be long. Thinking now, we probably should've spoke about this there instead."

"This is the deeprealms we're talking about." Hinoka nodded before she frowned, "But, what do we tell Azura? Our mother was her aunt. Her only relative left from the escape and now even she's… gone…"

Ryoma shook his head, "Let's keep this a secret and talk with them after they return. I'll let Takumi know to keep these things quiet too. It might not be a good time to tell Azura the news after what happened."

After Kamui and Corrin returned from the Deeprealm, Koharu noticed something off about Leo and Odin. In a sense, Selena was looked less upset with anything she did wrong that day, Laslow was more opened to conversations with her, and Odin was… well, more puzzling than before. Nanami, however, seemed rather sullen since her return from the journey. Perhaps, it's because Akito became swamped with work in the kitchen since Rinkah nearly set fire to their food that day. Due to her worry, Koharu decided that maybe she can speak with Nanami and see if she can be of some help to her troubles, but the numbers of attacks on the surface continued to increase and, with it, they also grew increasingly active to keep up with the number of attacks. Sometimes, they snuck back into Nohr's borders to quell any attacks from bandits or invisible soldiers while others they traveled back to Hoshido. The other problem was that she also continued to see soldiers traveling through the Dragon Gates into the Deep Realm. Due to this, there was little progress in their journey and they continue to travel back and forth more often for the next few weeks. One day, while she was going over to the Dragon's Gate to see how it was that day, she saw Prince Xander and Leo left through the gates, but, in less than half an hour later, she came back with a few peaches in hand and saw that they soon returned with another young man with red hair and dressed similarly to the prince. Seeing this, she couldn't help, but stare in him curiously in confusion. There was something familiar about this person. Perhaps it was the air around him or the way he rode his horse, but he just seemed rather familiar. Leo who had gone with them saw her and smiled, "Is everything all right, Koharu?"

She slowly nodded, "Y-Yes! U-um… I was just wondering… What going on?"

Leo smiled, "Well, this…"

Seeing this, Xander made his way over to her and the three got off their horse as Xander smiled as well, "Koharu, this is my son, Seigbert. As of today, he's going to live with us and help us here with the other children. Seigbert, this is Koharu. She helps around the castle and assists Lilith with other work."

His son?! Koharu quickly gave a deep bow, "H-Hello. My name is Koharu. It's nice to meet you."

"Likewise." The young man smiled back and shook her hand.

Xander nodded, "I need to speak with Kamui and Corrin and let them know that he'll be joining us. Perhaps, you can show him around the castle?"

"O-Okay." Koharu nodded back with a timid smile.

As they left, Koharu looked to Seigbert and then to his horse, "Maybe, I should take you to the stables first…"

"That would be great. Thank you, Koharu." The man smiled in response.

Without much wait, the two made their way through the busy streets as Koharu points out part of the castle as she had done so for Mitama. As they reached the stables, she saw Senri giving the horses their meal for the day. She smiled and waved, "Ah, Senri! Good morning."

The boy jumped and turned around to see her. He heaved a sigh and muttered, "Oh, it's you. Don't scare me like that!"

"S-Sorry." Koharu frowned.

Senri shook his head, "Nevermind. It's fine. So, who is he? A Nohrian soldier?"

"Ah…" Koharu strained a smile, "This is Seigbert. He's Prince Xander's and Princess Hinoka's son."

"Seriously?!" Senri's eyes widen as he took a step back, "But, wasn't he born like what? Four weeks ago in the Deep realms? I know time in the deep realms goes faster, but this is just crazy! And, that guy's kid?!"

"Senri! That was rude!" Koharu scolded, "You shouldn't say that!"

"I-I know, b-but you can't really ask me to stop being surprised by things I'm surprised by." He grumbled and looked away, "So what is he doing out here? Does he have a horse or something too? Oh, right…"

He sighed, "Let me go look for a stall."

As he left, Seigbert raised a brow, "Um… am I bothering him? It looks like he's not too fond of my parents."

"It's not that…" Koharu smiled, "The other day, Prince Xander helped us get Senri out of the infirmary since he didn't want to go outside and work. So, he's rather intimidated by him. It's the first time I've ever heard Prince Xander raised his voice too. He's usually so calm. Well, Prince Ryoma wasn't too happy either. Also, Senri's always like this. So, please don't worry."

"Is that so…" Seigbert strained a smile.

When he returned, Senri sighed with the papers in his hand, "Okay, so just follow me. I found the place."

"Sure." Seigbert began to lead his horse through the stables after Senri.

As they walked across one of the wyverns, a very familiar wyvern began to move as a water trough was thrown before them.

"Wah!" Senri screamed and jumped once to the back of a pillar, "Please don't eat me. Please don't eat me…"

He continued repeating this like a mantra as the wyvern snorted. Koharu looked to it in surprise as she saw the equipments hanging on the wall, "Marzia? Is something the matter?"

After finally getting to see Camilla's wyvern, Koharu had gotten to know the wyvern well enough, but knew better than to enter his stall while she was gone. Instead, she spoke with him from a distance. As she looked to the water trough, she could see the water flow out to the ground.

"I think you might have to refill his water trough, Seri." She called out to him.

"Again?!" the man whined like a ten-year-old child, "But, I just did that two hours ago. I swear, if he's trying to eat me…"

Though he mumbled, his feet and hands began to move as he picked up the water trough and dragged it as close as he could to the wyvern. She watched in awe as he began to use his ability. As a small circle of light appear before his palm, water flowed out from it and onto the trough. When he was finished, the wyvern immediately stuck his head down and began lapping on the water. Senri grumbled, "Just because you don't like the water we have here doesn't mean you can use me as a water tank for your own convenience…"

As he said this, he collapsed to the ground with fatigue clear across his face.

"Senri!" Koharu gasped and hurried to help him.

"Are you all right?!" Seigbert rushed over and helped him up.

As he glanced over to the water trough, Seigbert muttered, "That was amazing… I've never heard of magic that could summon water… Could it be… Mister Senri, are you an esper?"

As Seigbert helped him onto a bench, he grimaced, "But father told me that the espers with water abilities could get tired out easily. You should conserve your energy."

"Prince Xander told you about us?" Koharu questioned as she saw Seigbert's eyes widen in surprise.

Senri frowned and grumbled, "How much did they tell you?"

"I only heard that my parents are trying to help you get back to your world." Seigbert frowned, "He also told me that using abilities could also tire you out, especially the two who can control water. But, for a wyvern…"

Senri sighed, "He always does this when I'm on the shift. It's all because that one day when one of the horses lost control and knocked over the water supply. Akito and I had to refill it all because it take all day to refill the water supply. Now he only wants water that I bring out. Not surprised since it's from the water source I know of. If it's not that, he won't take it."

"I see…" Seigbert frowned, "That is a problem. Have you thought about speaking with my aunt?"

"No. She scares me." Senri shivered, "I've never met a scarier woman till now. She's not around here, right? …Okay."

As he sighed in relief, he pulled out his paper again and looked over in the distance and pointed to the stall two stalls away from the wyverns, "That should be it."

"Thank you, Senri." Seigbert gave a curt nod.

"Senri Ichinose." He corrected before leaning against the wall of the stables.

After settling his horse down, they left Senri with Laslow before walking to the castle. She then found Seigbert an empty room and introduced him to Mitama, or at least tried to since she was on her way back to her room. Seigbert seemed like a nice and polite person. In fact, he reminded her much of his father, but more approachable. The two had a nice talk as they entered the Mess Hall.

"Oh, Koharu!"

She looked up with her wooden tray in hand and saw Toya waving at a table. She smiled and made her way to the table. As they sat down, Toya raised a brow, "Oh. You are?"

"Seigbert." He replied and shook Toya's hand.

"Seigbert." Toya smiled, "My name is Toya Masamune."

As they began to eat their fish tempura, Toya said, "I don't think I've seen you around before. Are you new here?"

"Yes, I just arrived today." Seigbert nodded, "In all honesty, this is the first time since I left my home."

"Really?" Toya raised a brow, "That's interesting. Where do you come from? I assume it's somewhere from Nohr?"

Seigbert shook his head, "No. I actually came from one of the Deeprealms."

"Huh?" Toya's eyes widen, "Then, you're…"

"My parents are part of the militia." Seigbert said with a smile.

Toya watched the man closely before he muttered, "That hair… Could you be… Prince Xander's son?"

As Seigbert nodded, Toya's eyes widen, "I see now."

"Was it really that obvious?" Seigbert raised a brow.

"Well, your hair and air kind of gave it away." Toya answered after taking another bite of his food, "Since when did you arrive?"

"This morning." Koharu answered, "I saw Prince Xander and Prince Leo leave for the Deep realms and came back with him."

Seigbert nodded with a frown, "Recently, my deeprealm was attacked by the enemy soldiers. Father and Uncle Leo helped me fight them off. When I saw this, I wanted to join them on the front lines. My father gave me permission after that and brought me here."

Toya nodded, "You too, huh? At this rate, the other children would probably start joining us as well."

"Really?" Koharu frowned, "But, this is the front lines."

Toya sighed, "I know, Koharu, but I doubt most would be children by the time they leave the deep realms. Also, this is already showing signs that the enemy has caught on to the fact that this militia has children. I have never thought that this would become a problem when I first joined the group. But, first Mitama, then Seigbert. I'm worried about the other children now. Not to mention the number of attacks that have been occurring in Nohr and Hoshido."

Koharu was silent as she heard this. She was overjoyed and excited when she had seen some of the children's first moments in life, but she had never thought of the idea that they would soon also be in danger from the enemy. Hearing this, she soon recalled the small pale red hair infant boy who came out of the Deeprealms just to enter another with Prince Leo and his new wife. Forrest, she believed his name was. The fact that that child would also be in danger terrified her thoughts as she pondered about this.

"Of course, they'd probably be nearing adulthood by the time they left their deeprealms…" Toya said with a hum, "Perhaps, they'd be able to become strong enough too. Speaking of which Shiro's here too."

"Shiro?" Koharu tilted her head.

Toya nodded, "He's Prince Ryoma's son. Looks like he left his Deeprealm to find his father due to some family dispute. I think he should also be about your age, Seigbert."

"Prince Ryoma?" Seigbert frowned in confusion.

"He's Hoshido's crown prince." Koharu explained.

"You don't know him?" Toya raised a brow, "He should be your cousin since Prince Ryoma is your mother's older brother."

"I don't think I've seen him before…" Seigbert frowned, "But I do know that, like father, mother also have a lot of siblings. I can't believe I didn't draw the connections. But, why did my cousin left his Deeprealm? Didn't uncle also put him there to protect him too?"

"That's right…" Toya frowned, "But, I don't know if he knew that before he left his house. He was fighting against bandits when we found him. I don't know why, but it's possible that there was somethings he wasn't told of while he was growing up."

"Okay?" Seigbert raised a brow as he ate the last of his fish tempura.

Hearing this, Koharu can sort of predict that the next few days would be the weirdest she has experienced apart from watching the kids grow abnormally fast.

YueTian: Hey, guys! I don't know what to put down, so I'll just put down what comes to mind. Don't ask why I'm taking too long to continue the story plot of the game and why I haven't posted anything for a long time. I got Fire Emblem Revelation and have spent time playing it only to learn that there are somethings that aren't accurate to the game. Oh well. Anyway, I was also planning to post this last night, but I needed a new editor to look through it since my editor friends are always so busy. So, I asked a Fanfic pal to help me take a look just to check if the story flowed. Problem was: I stayed up too late. Who stays up to five with me at night and type fanfic all day? Answer is no one. So, you can see my bad habit there. Anyway, I'm really grateful to my good friend, Coral the Leviathan, for looking through my draft for me despite being busy with her own schedule. Thank you, Coral! If you guys don't know, she also does some Fire Emblem fanfic stories too! My favorite being the crossover between Pokemon and Fire Emblem! But, she does have other works, such as a crossover between Rwby and Pokemon or the new Shokugeki no Soma and Restaurant to Another World cross over! Now, I know was wanted to put up some kind of alert or announcement for some changes in my story, but I can't seem to recall what it was. So, I might just have to come back to do that instead. Anyway, I hope everyone had a great new years and Christmas. Let's do our best this year too!