Hero: I'm on a roll, right now! I'm starting to get into this since we're now entering territory that's fleshing out and setting up very interesting events. One of the goals I believe I mentioned with this fic is also to be a retelling of events, thanks to having hindsight from future content on top of some of my own ideas to make this more fun. This is where the fun begins, here's Chapter 18.

Chapter 18

In a hidden location near the border between Ylisse and Plegia, a familiar foe was finally ready to make the trek back to the homeland. Back to continue his schemes. Approaching his Lord, he would bow to offer both the news and the arrival of a certain guest.

"My Master Grima… I believe it will soon be time for us to take back what is ours back home."

"Yes, I know." The Deity would respond bluntly, eyes lighting up as if he was merely dormant until he was called up upon. "Has our guide arrived?" The hooded figure would look towards the revived Sorcerer, possibly aware of the answer already.

"Yes. She should be entering any moment now." He would not leave his bowed stance. As if forced to show respect less he wishes for death to take him back a second time.

"You called for me, my Master?" A temptress' voice could be heard, the sound of clacking high heels then filled the room as she entered, her curved figure swaying as she made her presence known with more confidence; a stark contrast compared to the humbled Sorcerer. But of course, once she was parallel to him, she too would bow before the God, her cleavage a prominent sight from the range of the Menace.

"Aversa…. you may rise." His humanity was interfering, her sight appealing to him. Or rather, what he was before. "Now, what news from Plegia can you tell me? Speak."

"Of course, sir. The country is as you expect, in absolute turmoil. If not for the war we just had, Plegia would be in a Civil War right now. And that will just not do for your plans."

"Foolish mortals. Do they not know what good they're for? They are my cattle, for me to feast upon when the time is nigh. Why has the Grimleal not seized control?" He would demand more answers. His time babysitting this failure had kept him away from his true goal.

"That is because Validar is still here. Without him, there is none who can take to the throne under our banner without any uncertainty. You know I would prefer to stay hidden, after all."

"Of course… you work better in the shadows. And what of Excellus? That fool was our second after Validar."

"Ah, him." Oh, this should be good. "He has gone off and tried to claim it without our guidance and support. He has joined the private war between the nobles for the throne. I believe Master Validar's 'Death', the whispers caused by Gangrel's defeat at the Border Wastes, and the missing Vessel have led him to view our wonderful cause as… weak; vulnerable."

"Man's arrogance…" Grima would trail for a second before coming back to focus his gaze on the two before him. "That will not do. If we are viewed as weak, then it's my job to remind them all why I am the Incarnation of Despair. We must remind the Herd who shepherds them along to their destiny."

"As you wish, my Master… but there is one more problem. One that the nobles overlooked in their attempt to settle the debts with Ylisse."

"Is this more pressing than our current trouble?"

"...Yes. It involves the formal crown worn at the Plegian castle. It was offered to the Ylisseans as a sign to show they will change their ways. That the past shall die. Emmeryn's speech must be to blame." She would speak more slowly with this message. She knew exactly why this would be upsetting to him. Even Validar had a hint of fear of what was to come next.

"..." Grima's eyes would close shut, pressure building around him.

"...M-Master?"

"Those FOOLS! Do they have any idea what that crown had on it!?"

The usually cool Aversa was unnerved in this state. Not expecting to see her God so agitated. "Master Grima, I apologize for this failure! Allow me to-"

"Silence!" His demand felt like a rush of wind pushing through the entire room, leaving the two still like statues. "...Do the Ylisseans know what's so important placed on it?"

"I do not believe so, my Master." She would answer without full conviction. Something that would normally upset the figure, but he was considering what this might do to change the future.

"...Where I came from, Gangrel had possession of the emblem thanks to Validar until Chrom had slain him. But even after that, the foolish Exalt was unaware of the gemstones and did not take Sable. I must assume the same here." With a sigh for a pause, he would continue. "Very well. I will take it back by myself."

"But Master, if you take the fight to them on your own, your identity will cause problems. Leave this responsibility to me."

"No. You will be spotted easily due to your infamy with the Shepherds. I, on the other hand, can be more discreet. And I am not so foolish to approach the castle by myself. I'll have a distraction that requires the attention of everyone. The minute they all focus on my fodder of an army, I'll find the gemstone. I have a strong feeling I know where it hides.

"Master Grima… if I may." Now Validar would meddle in the conversation. "Why not simply take the Emblem as well? You spoke of how I took it in your world. If we have it, we can keep it secure until the time is right."

"You absolute fool. If I take the Emblem, they will realize this is no random attack, but a distraction. The Tactician is not the only sharp mind there in Ylisstol. They will realize the Grimleal took it. They witnessed Aversa summon Risen before and saw your foolish self try to steal it. They will piece it together. And then they will be at our doorstep." The agitated God would sit on his throne once more. "As much as war pleases me, this would only ruin my goal. We must let time correct itself back to its proper path. Any further deviations will lead us to a future I am not certain of. And I despise uncertainties. Am I clear?"

"Yes, sir." He would meekly reply.

"Excellent. Then we have our plan. We shall mobilize in the coming weeks. Aversa, prepare the Risen back in Plegia. My power may be vast, but at the moment, it is finite. I spent enough on this clown to deny his early death, and I must be more conservative with it until the hour of necessity comes forth. When your tools are ready, we shall strike. Am I understood?"

"It is, my Master." She would coo, ready to take her leave.

"Ah, and one more thing. About the 'Alternative'..."

"Yes…. She is still under our possession."

"Excellent. I believe her time has come. Once you notice her next move, prepare it. Allow the failed science project to escape. We do not need the Alternative ruining my plans as well if she talks too much. But she will have some use away from us. That much I can ascertain."

"If that is all, then it shall be done." With one more bow, she would rise. "By your leave…. my Master." Aversa would waste no time, leaving the room immediately as she had much to prepare for now.

"Now, as for you." He would focus his gaze on the foolish Validar. "Prepare some Risen of your own. They need not be strong but as long as they can cause fear and panic among the rabble, they will serve us well."

"As you wish." Validar would reply back, fear still clogged in his throat. Preparations to cause chaos in Ylisstol were now underway.

"Leave me, then. I must meditate. This different world has made my body weaker. I must acclimate to my new surroundings." He would shoo away the Sorcerer, who did not hesitate to leave. It was the perfect opportunity to confront the woman he held much faith in.

Once outside, he spotted her tending to her ebony pegasus; she was preparing for takeoff to follow her orders given to her just moments ago.

"Aversa! How dare you! I saved you from the gutter and you disrespect so nonchalantly? Have you no dignity?" He would accuse her, irritated by her actions during their audience with Grima; with the Sorcerer now finally being able to express it to her while their Master was outside of his vessel's hearing range.

"Ah, forgive me, my master. I was… playing to Master Grima's likings. Do not take it personally. I only wish to earn his favor and keep his thoughts away from bringing harm to you." She would reply quickly, some slight remorse in her tone, but her face remained unfazed.

"And mocking me is supposed to help with that? What kind of fool do you take me for?"

"No fool of any kind, master. It was you who taught me to please those I work under when I spy. To gain their favor and thus, their secrets. With Master Grima, it is no different. I must serve him to keep his state of mind well. We would not want to provoke his wrath. The feats you described… were very frightening." His powers at full strength were something to be feared, even for a worshiper of his own very being. "Please forgive me, my master."

"...Very well. You speak the truth. No mortal can survive even a portion of his wrath. Grima stated he is no longer at his highest strength since coming here, but he could kill the greatest warriors around with ease. Including the strongest mages and assassins of the Grimleal." His thoughts would trail, before refocusing his gaze on his oldest student. "Now, go. We have our orders."

"Then, by your leave, Master Validar." She would mount her Pegasus, taking off right away to follow her orders like a good servant would. Validar on the other hand… had Risen to prepare for the coming invasion.

Meanwhile, in a noble household in the Plegian capital:

"...so that is the status of the noble houses. Only five, including ourselves, remain."

"Excellent work, my brother. Most excellent indeed." A flamboyant laughter from a wide grinned being would emit. The taller figure with a spear in hand would nod before continuing.

"Yes, soon we may have our opportunity to claim the throne if more houses surrender. Your reputation as a Grimleal has helped you in this critical time, Lord Excellus.

"Please, brother. You can just call me by name normally when it's just us." The outspoken one would cut him off. "I would prefer that."

"Yes, Excellus. So what shall we do next?"

"Well… I was thinking we would persuade some of the defeated houses to back us instead. To give us the numbers we lack."

"Is that wise? Would they not spite us for asking?"

"Some will and that's why we'll ask those we did not deal with. If we offer higher ranks in nobility or other just rewards, they may join us. Once we have enough influence and men on our side, we can claim the throne easily."

"As you wish, Excellus. Do you have any candidates in mind?"

"Unfortunately, one person I had was actually a general. I had a feeling Gangrel would pay for his arrogance and sought to unite military leaders under my banner. It would make for an easier time to crush any opposition."

"But why not noblemen first? What general could be more influential than them?"

"I'm glad you asked, Baskara. There was a general named Mustafa who was respected by all in the army, and even by the common man given his heritage. A Hero to many, but his virtues would be a weakness. If I held his family in my 'posession', I would have easily made him serve and support my ambition until I claimed the throne for myself."

"Yes… if the nobles cannot rally commoners, their causes will look flawed and unsympathetic compared to those that do bring them under their wing."

"Now you see the bigger picture, my sharp brother! We shall manipulate and strong arm them all through blackmail, slander, and manipulation!" Excellus would giddily cackle, pleased with the scenario playing in his head as if nothing could go wrong.

"...And what of those who will still oppose us?" He would interject, to which the madman immediately had an answer for, brandishing his sword.

"Well, we just put them against this! At least the Mad King was right on that fact!"

"Very well. I shall protect you with all my power no matter what we face, Excellus. No man shall reach you."

"Of course, my dear Brother. With Validar out of the picture, and the Vessel now living ignorantly in Ylisse, I do not believe we'll ever have to fear anyone powerful for quite a long time! The Grimleal shall collapse under its own weight!" His grin would still stay as widened as ever. "Ah, but make no mistake! It's not as if I know not how to protect myself." He would create fire in his exposed hand while lifting his sword in the other. "After all, I'm a genius with tactics, magic, and even the sword thanks to your guidance! Surely we'll have nothing to truly fear!"

"Even so, you shall be safe under my protection." He would bow his head for him.

"Oh, that warms my heart, Baskara; it absolutely fills me up with joy! Now-now, we must be off. There are fools to gather underneath our wings as you said!" He would get off his chair and stand, already moving forward.

"Very well." The Older, more taller brother would follow, lance still in hand. Their business would affect the future of this country, but how much so would remain to be seen.

Late August

Summer may have been winding down, but it's temperatures hardly declined; still as hot and somewhat humid. The training of the Shepherds towards their promoted classes and learning of new techniques, abilities, and weapons was well underway. The physical attackers would be learning new weapons to call their own with the exception of Lon'qu, who had become a full fledged swordmaster; which required the mastery of Four of the Seven forms of Swordplay. Stahl and Sully became Paladins together, Vaike focused on the Warrior path; while Gregor was going for the Hero class to pick up the Axe into his arsenal. Donnel had switched from Lance to Sword with the Mercenary class, a basic class but no doubt he would catch up quickly to the others as long as he continued with his fast rate. Kellam was forgotten about in terms of his promotion to a General to most eyes. Only Sully was aware of that. Virion had long said goodbye to the Shepherds, electing to stay in Regna Ferox for reasons he chose not to share. Not that anyone wanted to even ask. As for the magical side of things, Miriel and Ricken elected to become sages, which required them to learn how to heal with a staff; but under the guidance of Healers like Libra and Maribelle, that should not be a problem at all. Speaking of, Maribell would enhance her current abilities by picking up Tomes. A quick learner to the surprise of many, she was learning how to use El-magic already. Lissa stubbornly chose to be a War Cleric, the parallel class to the War Monk. Frederick taught her to lift the axe despite his opposition at first. When the Princess makes it clear she wants that weapon, he has no choice but to budge on it and let her move along. And finally, the two fliers. Cordelia shined as a Falcon Knight, already becoming a beacon in her class to the young recruits. The stories of the Pegasus Knights who sacrificed their lives to warn Ylisse of Gangrel's approach inspired some to join the Sisterly corps.! Sumia, however… was a bit distracted with something. Technically Chrom and her were not married yet; and Chrom cannot obviously call her Queen because of that. So, a marriage is now hastily placed on the table as the nation recovered from the War. No doubt this can be another reason to further spread positivity, but it was a hassle for those in charge, considering they had to get this done with as soon as possible. Orpheus was no wedding planner, but even so he had to still deal with those frequenting the castle and Sumia asking both he and Cordelia on aesthetics for their wedding. Chrom had asked Orpheus to be his Best Man, and of course, he could not decline the opportunity. Cordelia, naturally, was to be Sumia's Maid of Honor, so that meant she would also be helping with some of the planning, hence Sumia's questions. Orpheus also was in charge of setting up security detail. While there was an army at Chrom's disposal, it would be crude of him to have them all be working to make sure the process would be peaceful. Frederick would handle invitations given how well he knows the citizens, nobles, and of course, he would arrange for the Khans to come and join them for this special occasion. The wedding was to be more grand on the outside. While only closer known people to the couple would be welcome during the main event, the two would be out for all the public to see once the knot had been tied. In the evening there would be a ballroom party where those at the reception could dine and dance with each other and honor the groom and bride before they were to be off on their own.

Orpheus was hiding off in the library, away from all that noise. It was getting to him, especially because he didn't think weddings could get this grandiose. Of course, someone had to come and get him back into this. But for the moment, he was finally alone to enjoy the temporary peace. He was studying up on more ancient history to better understand the situation of the world. With word of the civil war in Valm, he chose to base his studies on the one whose name inspired the current continent's name; Alm, the ruler of what was then the One Kingdom of Valentia. While it did last for generations; ultimately, without a true charismatic leader like the founder, it fell and broke in more pieces than the original two. But before he could read into it more, the door to the library opened. Who could it be? Likely Cordelia out to drag him back into the fray. To his surprise, he was at least right that it was a Pegasus Knight that entered, but it was not the redhead he knew well. It was the future Queen approaching!

"Sumia…!? What brings you here?" He would ask as she plopped onto the seat across from him.

"Just… trying to step away for a bit." Wow, she sounded drained by this too. Even soon to be brides can find the process stressful; especially when on such a hastily sped up process!

"I'm pretty shocked for you of all people to hear you say this. You seemed so excited for this, Sumia. What changed?"

"Oh, I am excited about marrying Chrom! I really am! I just wish this process got slowed down a bit. It's making my head spin." She would rest her head on her hand; elbow firmly on the table.

"Yeah, I feel that. I'm trying to determine who is working security. I know Chrom picked me for best man, but isn't the best man meant for the one who is best at using a sword? Wouldn't Frederick or Lon'qu be better than me? I know Lon'qu has been hitting off with guarding the Princess around the clock." He would shrug, wishing they were here so he could poke fun at them.

"I think he picked you because you're his closest friend, not just because you're great with a sword."

"Of course. I just don't like the extra work." He would give a short laugh, a stupid grin on his face which would lead to Sumia giving off a giggle of her own.

But then, the library door would open again. This time with more force. The sounds of heels quickly coming through and this time, it really was Cordelia who entered this chat. Both Orpheus and Sumia feared she came to drag them both back into this.

"So this is where you two were…" She would speak slowly with intimidation creeping into their hearts. Oh gods, they can't even have five minutes away from this.

To which Cordelia would sit next to Orpheus and immediately rest her head on his shoulder. "I'm starting to reach my limit with this." Yes, even the most diligent worker would reach her wit's end. This on top of all her other tasks led to her fleeing to the library for a temporary asylum. Too bad Chrom would eventually need help. And today was not going to get easier. Orpheus seems to have garnered attention too soon. Some nobles and a representative of the commoners have come to argue against his idea. It would be him, Chrom, and Frederick alone with them. As the three let some time pass, their minds would settle down, and finally the three would make their return to the fray. This was going to be their whole week. Peace time isn't so peaceful now.

The sun was starting to descend and those involved in the wedding would head out for the day. But now came the fun, debate time. And once everyone was seated, there was no warming up. Orpheus' opposition would immediately jump into things. "I am Baron Carr, and this is Baroness Andrews." The noble on the right would introduce himself quickly. A man clearly beyond his prime; likely in his later fifties. His tone made clear he was confident in his influence. The fellow noble, the Baroness; was likely past her thirties and into her forties. The way she dressed would have you believe she was still attractive to her peers. The commoner, left on his own, would need to speak for himself on this one.

"Please call me Quinn, I'm representing the common folk here and around the country. Shall we discuss business, Grandmaster Orpheus?" His tone was more respectful compared to the nobles around him, who clearly didn't like this upstart tactician flexing his way into their society. He looked to be about the same age as the Baroness, but with a mostly cleaned up face, save for a scar on the cheek.

"Alright, then let's begin. Who wants to speak first?" The problem here is that Orpheus couldn't be as he wanted to be; irritating to his opponents. His tongue had to move correctly. He does speak on Chrom's behalf. But with the air he was reading off these nobles, that may be easier said than done.

"Very well, I shall begin with my first questions." The Baron would force his way in. "So are you attempting to raise an even bigger army? Are you not unaware of our recent history?"

"Yes, I know. I learned it from both Stahl, a member of the Shepherds, and from Exalt Chrom himself."

"Then why do you raise it? Our recent years have been made clear to you, and yet the whispers about you grow restless."

"If I might interject…" Quinn would raise his hand. "As these two compatriots have said, along with some mentions in the streets that you planned to get more people to join the army. And you're currently testing this with the Shepherds themselves. With Lord Chrom now the Exalt, the role of Commander of this whole Halidom's army of brave men and women has fallen to you."

"Indeed!" Baroness Andrews now threw her hat into the ring. "Do you intend to start a draft? Our reputations as nobles would sink on top of your own if we let you commit to this!"

"Alright, that's plenty of questions. Let me answer them before you keep adding more to the pile." Orpheus would cut her off.

"How rude!" Both nobles spoke at the same time.

"Steady yourself." Frederick would speak slowly to them, wanting to give Orpheus his opportunity.

"So, yes; I am testing if it's possible to make the Shepherds stronger for combat. We are all training to attain new skills and techniques, but we are not seeking to grow our numbers. There is no draft. At most we will open up options for any who wish to join the army, but the goal is to-"

"Aha! So you are trying to gather numbers!" Carr would cut off Orpheus once again. "We are not fools! You intend to repeat history and doom us to our past sins! Once all the nobility hears of your arrogance, we may oust you of your role! Even if the late Exalt supposedly 'granted' you your title, it will be easily taken away!"

"I wonder how you found this out. Either way, you're still presuming too much."

"But you just said it yourself! You are willing to add more to your ranks! The amount we have is more than enough! The continent is at peace! What possible threat could arise from our neighboring nations. Regna Ferox is on excellent terms with the Exalt and now Plegia has cast its past aside! Do you wish for war that badly?"

"Oh dear gods, do you ever shut up?"

"You wot!? How dare you!" Now it was his turn. It's clear these nobles had no intention to seek the truth but only affirm their own.

"What of the Risen? None truly know their origin but they still exist and occasionally rampage cities and villages alike. Quinn, as per recent reports, there was a Risen attack near the city you live in, correct?"

"Why, yes. That is the case…"

"And then there's Valm. While it's in a civil war, there have been reports from both neighboring nations refugees and brigands have come here for either asylum or a new location to find prey to feed on. Even in peacetime, there is still conflict around us. To be apathetic and do nothing is death!"

"But these threats are few and far between." The Baroness would attempt to interject.

"Until those questions are resolved, the brigands brought to Justice, and the Risen are soundly exposed and defeated, we must always be growing. Stagnation isn't good for anyone. There could be an attack on the capital someday! These mindless beasts care not where they strike. They invade whatever and wherever they please. I seek not to force men and women into our ranks, but only to offer those who wish to uphold the peace the opportunity. And to those already here, I want them to grow stronger. One soldier will be as strong as three Feroxi! The quality of our soldiers is the goal, not the quantity. With their strength and new resolve, should anything threaten us, we can defeat it with ease, keeping the people more safe than as we are now." His sharpened tongue held nothing back. Orpheus would not allow them to cut him off this time. "I was there for Emmeryn's last words, and I took them to heart. All of us did. The Ylisseans, the Feroxi, and even the Plegians. We will uphold the peace and keep the people safe. And in order to do that, we must grow in both character and ability. You may doubt me, but do you doubt Chrom and Emmeryn's ideals? I share in their wills, alongside my own."

The room was silent. Orpheus had made his point clear. Chrom would step in to clear the silence.

"Well said, Orpheus. To you representatives of the people, I ask if you still harbor questions or concerns to speak to my Tactician? I place all my trust in his decisions, and I must ask you are all willing to do so as well."

For a moment, there was silence. Deafening silence; until one moved up their chair forward. It was Quinn who had the courage to speak.

"I am glad and grateful for your newfound patriotism for our nation, Orpheus. Rumors swell about you that you are not of Ylissean origin, but your words tell me you treat this place as if it were your birthplace. However, my only doubt is that you are wary of your actions. During the first war with Plegia. The Exalt before Lady Emmeryn and Lord Chrom, their Father… would preach how we were doing this to protect the lives of Ylisse. How we were justified and in the right as we slaughtered hundreds. I was… foolish enough to believe his words at face value. My only request is that you do not let your noble intentions cloud your head and make choices that would harm both the people, the Exalt, and yourself."

"So… you're a veteran of that first conflict? That explains why you're here."

"Yes. I do not believe my peers here were aware of that. In fact, I'd say I was brought along for this scar on my face to intimidate you." Looks like he knew they were using him. But it was the other way around. He used them for this platform. "But it takes more than an old wound to scare a fellow veteran."

"Ain't that the truth."

"I am willing to believe in you as Exalt Chrom does. And I'm certain with time, the common-folk will understand your plight. But you must be on your guard to not let your idealism consume you."

It took Orpheus a moment to respond, but when he did, his tone was as true as the one across him.

"I understand your concerns. But fear not, I'll have Chrom at my side to remind me of that possible path. I do not want to bring Ylisse back to that dark time, only to be ready if the darkness comes for us. I cannot explain why, but the possibility feels like it's always there and does not leave me. I am well aware that is not enough to justify such actions. But it's still something that is always worth preparing for. To prevent it above all else. I hope that puts your doubts at ease. Is there anything else anyone would like to add?" And after saying that, a moment of silence would happen. The nobles were defeated for today, but this is likely not over. "If you so wish, we can discuss this next time you all come by. There, you can see our improved skills firsthand."

"Well, if nothing else will be discussed, we shall adjourn for the night. We have much to attend to for the coming days." Frederick would dismiss all in attendance. Orpheus made a loud, yet clear impression. Perhaps he should steer clear from that place he took Cordelia to for a while. Just to make sure she can avoid the spite he might get his way. Probably for the best.

Moments later, once the guests had left the room.

"Orpheus. I'm glad you're supportive of Emm and her final wish, but I was hoping you'd be a bit more… polite with speaking to representatives. Now that we're here, in charge, we can't always go about conflicts the way we want to."

"But you heard those stuck up nobles, Chrom. They didn't have any intention of listening to me. They only wanted to chastise me and throw doubt on your leadership."

"Perhaps so. But if word travels, and it will, it may create more problems. And I cannot always apologize on your behalf."

"I know. I have to keep working on this so we all can prove the worth of further military investment. If the Shepherds become more efficient, they'll all have to come around."

"Yes. On that, we agree." Chrom would nod, sighing afterward.

"You're changing, Chrom. You being forced to grow up has really tempered your somewhat headstrong nature. Usually, I'm the one who needs to help you exercise restraint."

Chrom gave a light laugh. "Well… When you put on the crown, it has a way of making you see the bigger picture. And that's supposed to be your expertise, isn't it?"

"Alright, I'm gonna stop you there before you remind us about our bonds again. I've known you long enough to know where this is going. And I'm thinking we should all retire for the night before it gets even later." Orpheus would chuckle, with his exalted friend following suit. The two would soon part for the night. An early night's sleep would do them both good.

The next day, inside a lone room in Plegia.

"Hmm, so you found your target?"

"Yeah. Gaius finally tracked them and brought them up to speed. Ugh, I'm not into emotional stuff." Tharja would groan, the recalling of a crying wife irritated her more than it should have.

"You've always been one of a kind, Tharja. Do you plan to leave immediately?"

"Yeah. Sooner I can get back to Orpheus, the better. Even if he'll never remember me again…"

"Well, I… I want to go too! Your offer is still available, yes?" The person would perch up from their seat.

"Yeah. I'm still surprised you didn't want to go right away. Is Aversa gone now?"

"Yeah, she took off South to the Table. I don't think she'll be back for some time. This might be my chance! I must meet with Orpheus as soon as possible!"

"Then do you want to depart tomorrow? The sooner we leave, the better for us all."

"Hm, actually, I would like to inform someone before I go. Just as a contingency plan in case something goes awry."

"You're gonna summon the boy?"

"Yes. Henry must know. When they know I'll be missing, they may try to interrogate him or worse."

"Isn't he into that stuff? I would think he'd make for an ideal scapegoat."

"Tharja! That's not nice. He'll have a very important assignment. If I ask this of him, he'll do all he can to stay alive and accomplish it."

"Well, whatever. If you say so." As cheerful as ever, Tharja would sound. "Then we can go in two days. I can't keep the wife of that Mustafa guy here for long now that she knows he's still alive. So try to make this quick."

"I will, don't worry." And with that, Tharja would take her leave as this hidden supporter of Orpheus was left by their lonesome to prepare. The figure would have a tear roll down their cheek once alone, the feeling of nostalgia and melancholy filling their heart. Her heart.

"After so long, I will finally be by your side once more. This time, I'll keep you safe no matter what…. My young Brother."

Hero: Oh, to finally reveal this one was a woman. Though it was probably obvious, this is my big change. We're having both My Units in this one! Is it more chaotic? Absolutely. But is it not more fun because of that? You'll have to wait like everyone else for her name. But the major battle is happening next chapter! This one was a good long read but I'm thinking the next one will be a bit longer. I wanted to save the reveal of her relation to Orpheus in the next chapter, but I figured there's a lot going on there, no need to burn the readers out. I hope this keeps you interested for the next chapter! Because the totally legit invasion is commencing! Is it coincidence that this is happening when Orpheus is facing scrutiny? Find out next time. Stay safe out there.