Hero: Oh man, I've been wanting to get to this chapter for so long. It's one of those that I've had playing out in my mind for a long time. I hope you're all excited for it. This has everything. Fighting, some character moments, setups for future events. All that good stuff. And as well as my first addition to the cast. Technically, she's an OC, but kinda not in this game's case. You'll see what I mean. This might hold the record for longest chapter. at 11,137 words, so feel free to take breaks and such. I'll use those line things to keep things spaced so you can enjoy it just a bit easier. So, here's Chapter 19. Enjoy it.
Chapter 19
The sun was long past the horizon, yet a particular woman was determined to see this hand written book she held tightly close in her own arms like it was her own child to its destination. Later at night than she'd like, she found the person at the edge of the exit of the capital.
"Henry! It's good to see you here again."
"Heya! You look like you've been running from a ghost? Is there a ghost!?" The young man would look around eagerly.
"You know that's what this isn't about." She would remind him of the purpose of her departure in the morning. She had to be hasty, but not reckless either. "...So, can I entrust you with this?" She would hand him the tome she held close initially.
"Yeah, you got it! So… where can I put it?" He would ask, looking at all he can see around the hardcover. It was plain with no title. Clearly an indication this wasn't for combat or study, or even some bloody fairy tale like he was hoping for.
"Henry, this contains details I may need for the future. In case anything happens to me. If I die or my mind gets affected like my brother, give this back to me, or to Orpheus if you find him."
"Ohhh, so is this a time capsule or something?"
"Not quite. It's a recollection of everything I know about our family. With Validar and Mother gone, we may not need this information. Just in case, I want you to hide it someplace where it will be safe from the Grimleal. Put it somewhere you rarely even frequent!" Henry was making mental notes as he skimmed through the book. "You will likely have to hide as well. When they notice I'm gone, they'll try to use you to bring me back." She only now would realize how much danger he was in. "I'm sorry for placing this burden on you, Henry."
"Nya ha! Don't worry. I figured something like this would happen and already had an idea of what to do!" He reassured his old friend.
"You do?"
"Yeah! I'm gonna move back in with the animals! I'll head to Carrion Isle! There's not many people there and the Grimleal won't find me there that easily! All the animals will watch my back." He sounded so sure of himself. They were practically his family given his own backstory; one she was familiar with.
"I ask that you stay vigilant regardless. I don't know when I can find you again, but… I must meet my brother."
"Yeah, I getcha! I'll put this away someplace they'll never look! I just hope we'll never need to use it."
"Yes… I hope so too."
"Go on! You should head back and rest before you gotta go. I'll be safe for a while so you don't need to worry."
"Thank you, Henry. I'm grateful for your friendship." She gave him a proper bow before turning back and saying goodbye. There wasn't much time until she would set off on her own personal journey. A journey of reunion and rekindling a lost familial tie. It was best to turn in as soon as possible.
The next morning, near the front of the Capital's gates. A family of two were being instructed by two of the most unexpected of saviors alongside the woman.
"...Okay, so now that introductions are out of the way, let's get out of here. Sooner we get back, the better for all of us." Tharja clarified with clear irritation in her voice.
"Yeah, yeah, we're going, Sunshine." Gaius would assure her in his own, humorous way. To which the last second addition would giggle, seeing Tharja mocked so easily. Back in the Grimleal, none would ever want to cause strife with her. Less they end up with a hex most cruel of their own design.
"Alright, alright, that's enough from you two." She would interject. "Let's move on. We all have our reasons for needing to be in the Halidom, so shall we be off?" The group would all agree, the boy sticking close to his mother. If the state of affairs for Plegia were stable, these two would likely not leave. But the letter from the missing man from their household assured these two were not lying. It would be a long way of traveling to Ylisstol, but to everyone, it will be well worth the wait.
That state the country was in is now on the cusp of reaching its boiling point. Only a few nobles had a stake in this horse race to the throne. All sorts of fear tactics, the new forming of alliances and… "sudden" disappearances of certain Heads of various families were starting to become more commonplace. At some point, someone had to make a move for the throne. To force the others amongst the nobility to acknowledge the new ruler. A simple goal, yet there were many little things along the way that made this path rather bumpy.
Excellus however, did not care for that fact. For he saw only the glowing light at the end and would trample anything or anyone when it was his time to strike. And that time was soon coming. His brother was currently informing him of a message he had received from a former castle dweller.
"What? Aversa wishes to speak with me?" The chubby figure would shake in surprise. Was she intending to come for his head for leaving the Grimleal?
"Yes, brother. She says she has some information she would like to give us. Something to help end the conflict."
"There must be a catch to this. Or it's a trick! Where is she right now? Is she here!?" He was starting to panic. He had thought she truly went AWOL for good.
"No. She told me she had pressing matters and left once she said her piece. Her request is that as long as we don't make a push towards the throne right now… she will give us a 'tool' to secure the throne. I believe it sounds a bit too convenient. Especially since she has been gone since the war ended."
"On that, we agree, my dear brother. However, I believe biding our time may be for the best. I cannot help but be curious as to what her scheme is. And should it be threatening to our plans, you know what we must do, my dear brother."
"Of course. The Grimleal are weakened. She is their last standing figurehead and a leader, she is not. She must have some plan of preserving the Grimleal. I see no other reason for her sudden appearance otherwise."
"And that is the key. What would the dying cult stand to gain from this? Their leader with a surprise exeunt from this world so soon, the vessel still in Ylisse, safe in the new Exalt's brooding arms, and the Alternative not worthy to be His body. What could she gain?" The two would ponder, but all their guesses were not easy to validate. "Bah, we shall think of this later. Now, didn't you have news from the quiet uproar from the rivaling houses?"
"Ah, forgive me, brother. That was my original message to you. It seems time is almost up. Plegia has to honor its promise. Do you remember the secret accord with the Kingdom of Valm? With its King, Walhart?"
"Ah, I recall that meeting. It was over fifteen years ago. Before Gangrel took control when his Father was slain by Ylisseans in the war. We and the King made a secret deal away from the Grimleal's eyes and ears. Before I had joined their ranks. The King had bold plans. Plans to end the Grimleal once and for all."
"Yes. As I recall, you were supposed to be their spy. It is precisely why you joined."
"You are correct, Baskara. Those two children were trained to be quality tacticians through myself and as many methods of knowledge as possible so that when Walhart would begin his plan to overthrow and revolutionize the continent of Valm, we would offer Orpheus to them as a showing of good faith. In turn, the Vessel would be away from them as well securing Walhart's goal of conquest. The continent would then conquer ours, but we Plegians would side with him and turn on Validar and all of his fellow worshippers! It was a compelling plan. And if I had snuck some information to the Ylisseans, even they would join us to assure their absolute eradication. But the plan slowly fell apart. Do you know why?"
"If I recall, the death of the King Gangrel the First was the first problem. His son immediately went mad due to what led to this second ward's problem: the grief and hatred given to many thanks to the former Exalt's actions. Gangel was not aware of our scheme so you were left in charge of training the two until the time had come."
"Yes. I had taught them well, but the next problem was when Validar's wife grew cold feet. She snatched her boy away and took him to distances even we could not ascertain. He was missing for a few years until now, when he mysteriously appeared as Chrom's tactician. And with no memory to boot."
"Validar stated that he did not find them at all, did he not? This feels like it has him all over this."
"Yes, I thought so myself. But I saw no reason he would let him or his wife go on purpose. But we still have Her; we can offer her up to Walhart and the plan may still come to fruition. And I know how much she hates her Father for what happened. If we can just reach her, perhaps I can persuade her to do this."
"Is she not still with them? Perhaps we can arrange to meet her."
"Soon. For now, we must focus on the throne. But we shall keep all this in mind, Baskara. For now, let us bide our time and prepare for our moment." Excellus would give a wicked grin. His plans may change, yet the goal was the same. Power was his desire, and power he shall take or die trying.
Early September.
In Ylisstol, there was a routine check going around the watchtowers scattered around the capital. For today, however, the Exalt and his Tactician would personally see to their inspections. They were up on a tower nearest to the castle with a guard that would be on schedule for the day.
"So this is how alarms get sprung about? Simple watchtowers for small villages are enough but the bell is used to get messages across easier as you need much noise to reach the ears of all in a city as big as this one. And to reach the other bell towers, is that correct?" Orpheus would question, despite feeling he is correct on the matter; yet the clarification was something he often sought out for assurance.
"Yes, sir. The bell travels way better than a shout ever could around these buildings and the chatter of the common folk. And the more we ring it consecutively determines the severity. Once is for a small band of rogues, with it only needing that area's soldiers to be dispatched. Two rings are for a larger group like the size of a small battalion. We will need more groups and this is when people around the area are demanded to evacuate. This can also apply for extreme weather warnings as well so people avoid thunderstorms and such. But if three strikes are rung, then all able hands must call to arms. A full battalion or even an army is approaching and a messenger is sent immediately to the Exalt to request the army's full night. Many citizens or all shall be asked to evacuate to safe zones or into the castle itself. These precautions were made when Lady Emmeryn was the Exalt."
"Even at a young age, Emm was always thinking about the safety of the citizens" Chrom would add, praising his sister's noble intentions.
"Yeah. The country was already in a bad state, so she didn't want anyone else to suffer more than they already did." Orpheus can see how well her insight has served the nation. "So, we're doing just test rings with the bell today, right?"
"Yes, sir. Other inspectors should be at their locations. They will all hit their bells once after we hit ours to start it off."
"May I have the honors?" Chrom would step forward, looking eager to swing at it.
"Of course, Exalt! Simply get in position and swing when ready.
"Oh. Before you do, I do have one more question. What's with those flags there?" He would point to those lying by the way back down to the surface.
"Ah, we use those to pass along complex messages before or after we ring the bells; such as to give some early details of an attack and such."
"Ah, I see. Go ahead then, Chrom." The inspection would finally begin. This was the only thing planned for today; today was a day away from planning the wedding at both the bride and groom's request. Thank the gods. They were ahead of schedule; a fortunate situation that allowed this moment of reprieve. But for Orpheus, this was the first of many things to do. He had to pay a visit down below, and spend some idle time with Cordelia; since they've barely had any time with each other due to all this hectic nonsense happening. There was news to report, however. News he couldn't afford to delay any longer.
Descending down the steps to the dungeon, he would come to Mustafa's cell once more. It remained unopened, yet he respectfully stayed in, rarely leaving the area. The promise of his wife and son's safe return kept him and his few surviving men inside.
"Mustafa, I believe you know why I'm here." Orpheus would waste no time with General, cutting to the chase.
"Aye, I presume it is news of my family?
"Indeed. A messenger arrived yesterday evening that my crew had found them. They're currently on route." Orpheus' tone sounded relieved, but that was drowned by Mustafa's troop shouting in cheer as if they had won a major battle.
"Finally... some good news at last." The general kept his expression as strong as possible, though that was a challenge for him. "So, I take it they'll be here soon?"
"Yeah. In about a week I'd say. They may ride a wagon here once they reach the border. I'll know once they get there." Orpheus was relieved to see some expression off Mustafa. His stoicism rarely changed as he remained here. "Once you're together, we can try and discuss what you all wish to do and where to live. This place won't do anymore."
"And I was just just starting to get used to the bed too." Mustafa would crack a short laugh, his emotions showing. His mood has clearly improved much. After a few more minutes of exchanging words, Orpheus bid farewell to the group, as he had his own personal plans to attend to. A certain woman was kept waiting; and now, with all his tasks completed; he would head off to go see her.
When he arrived, however, he would find her not simply awaiting for his arrival in the barracks, but still working; going over paperwork and recruitment sheets. He would only sigh as he took a seat across from her.
"Cordelia… today might be our only chance away from all this and you just dove right back in. Why?" His tone sounded weary. He didn't take this opportunity for granted, yet she just went back to work.
"Because Orpheus… There is always something for us to do. You must have known this already. We're too important to simply slack off." This sudden turn into her work baffled Orpheus. Did she forget that they planned to even spend time together? "When I finish with these assignments, then we can go on our own time and relax." To which, he would sigh, head shaking afterwards.
"Well, give me something to write with. I'm not going to spin my book here waiting for you." To which she would look up a bit surprised at his sudden willingness to help. His lazy tone from before made it sound like he wanted nothing to do with this. Yet here is, trying to take a cut of her work.
"Let me do this, please. It's more efficient if I do it." She tried to stop him, yet his stubborn side would take hold.
"Then just give me a quick rundown. I catch on pretty quick as you know." With a reluctant sigh, she'd start explaining what to do with some of these recruitment papers alongside some unrelated things.
In an undisclosed location, Validar was rehabilitating his body to moving more properly before he was slain by his own kin. Using a Risen to help go through the motions, the Mad Sorcerer used the same magic used to catch Orpheus' swords, grabbing and reflecting weapon and claw alike. But soon, a guest would enter and interrupt his own brand of therapy.
"Master Validar. I take it you're ready to fight again?" She would ask the man who saved her, slowly walking closer all the while.
"Aversa. All goes well. I feel ready to make my return to the capital." Before their conversation could continue, another set of footsteps entered the chamber. A set they both knew who it belonged to.
"Aversa, report. Is your legion ready?" Grima would waste no time here. There was urgent action needed to be taken to restore the timeline on course and no one will stop him. Not even a rival god.
"Yes, master. They are approaching our hold and ready for your orders. And, I have news on the 'Alternative'. She has left the capital. And I have the necessary tome Validar informed me of to keep her in check once she's reached her dear brother."
"Excellent. Time marches back to its original path. But we are not down. Validar!" His focus would instantly turn to him. "Are you prepared with your group as well?"
"But of course, my Master. We all await your final word." He would reply with a bow.
"Good, good. Now is the time to strike; now is the time to launch our operation. Gather your legions, they shall strike together like mindless animals. My plans for the Vessel are grand, and this too shall see our Ultimate goal eventually come to fruition. Their trust in him shall be their downfall. Ahahahahaha…"
Back at the Halidom, the courting couple finished their work. Just below of what Cordelia predicted she would spend if she did this alone. The Tactician was productive, yet not entirely efficient. But regardless, he now could actually enjoy his night with her… after he asked what's going on with her.
"Cordelia; I've heard you tend to drown yourself in work when you're down. What's wrong?" Her perfectionism always seemed to come up due to her feeling down.
"Nothing is wrong, Orpheus. I'm only making the jobs for everyone easier." Her answer was blunt, with a hint of sharpness.
"I doubt that's all there is to it. You've been looking harder lately. Ever since this whole thing started-"
"Orpheus, please stop."
"Cordelia. You can talk to me about this. I think I know why. And I understand. Keeping things bottled up like this…. It's self destructive. And that self destruction will eventually hurt others whether you want it to or not." He didn't state flat out why she was taking on more tasks like this. But they both knew what it was about. The Exalted one. "There's something unrelated to ask you. Do you have any family?"
"...No. I lost them both just before I became a knight."
"So you're not like Stahl or anyone who were victimized by the war preceding this one?"
"No. I came from a small town. The town where you were found. Southtown."
"Wait, what? How long ago did this happen? When Chrom found me!?" Now Orpheus began to fear he maybe could have saved them certain death.
"No. This happened before that time. It was how I first met Chrom. I was merely an apprentice when I lost them. It was bandits. The town has had a history of them appearing but that day was far worse." She sighed heavy, her eyes looked up as she recalled the events vividly. "I'm a poor runner. And I did not have the wings of a Pegasus to call my own. I was practically a basic soldier." She revealed her own weakness. Something no one else would ever know. "I repelled them as best as I could but… it was nearly a hopeless battle. My family was killed and I didn't know till after the fact. But when I was nearly dead, that was when… he saved me."
"Chrom?"
"Yes. Chrom." A brief pause, another breath was taken before she continued. "I… couldn't help myself in that moment. I fell for him like a cliche Princess. His memory brought comfort to me after I learned my family's fate. And thanks to his mention of me, I got to continue my training here in the capital. And I became a Knight after a few years."
"Things make much more sense now." With the wedding coming closer each day, her feelings didn't return as in she still wanted his love still. But they simply caused her heart pain because she could not move on from that moment. It was hard to let go fully.
"I see…. You don't have a family anymore, yet I believe you still have someone. Someone you met after this happened. You know who, right?"
"Yes. I still have Sumia. My fellow sister."
"Not just her now. You have all of us. You have the Shepherds. You have the rest of your sisters. And you have me." When he made that clear to her. The rush of feelings would come down upon her like water freed from a flood gate's grip. "I understand. I know you can't just move on so easily he meant this much to you. I should have known better."
"Orpheus… I'm sorry."
"Don't be. I'm not trying to shame you or anything. I'm not good at this romantic stuff, so I don't think I can even try and criticize you on this, anyway. But even I can tell you have some things you must sort out. I want to tell you what you can do, but… that might be a bit selfish of me."
She was silent. The reminder of what she felt back then bogged her down to a standstill. Orpheus wanted to continue marching on, but she… refused to move alongside him.
"Look… I'm going to be upstairs. If you still want to spend some time with me, I'll be waiting for you." He would get up from his seat and move on. He didn't want to force her along. In her mind, however, she wanted him to bring her. Her legs felt weak; her heart cramped up; and her mind lost in the fog, all alone. He waited for her, for minutes, and even hours. Still, she wouldn't appear. With no other options, he would retreat to his room. His friend may not have realized it, nor actually having any actual fault in it; but, Orpheus couldn't help but be somewhat bothered by him interfering with his desires once again.
Two days later, with the two still at an awkward point in their relationship, something would soon come to shake up everything even more. Or rather, shake up the state of Ylisse entirely. In the deepest part of the forest to the northwest of the capital, Grima had gathered the Risen he had requested from his two subjects, and was ready to make his move.
"All are here, I take it? I believe you two know your roles?" He would sound like his vessel with this talk of strategy, albeit more corrupted.
"Indeed, my lord. We shall stay out of sight and orchestrate the Risen to incite fear in the common man and the attention of their military."
"Excellent. Then I shall be off-"
"Master Grima!" Aversa would reach out to stop him quickly. "I have a suggestion before you move."
"Very well. Speak it quickly then."
"Of course. Despite our precautions, there may be a possibility you will be spotted. Killing may attract more attention than it's worth, so I have come to offer you this." She would show a bright white object; a mask.
"Ah, you truly are a cut above the rest, Aversa. Such wisdom is to be remarked for even a human." He would grab it with no haste, placing it on his face. A bizarre parallel to his opposing nemesis of his time. "Then if there is nothing else. I shall take my leave. Commence the attack." He would disappear from sight as he finished his command, teleporting closer to the capital.
"You heard our master. Go! Attack the capital of Ylisse!" Validar would relay the order to the mindless abominations. "Aversa, stay with me. We must stay out of sight until our Master returns with the Gemstone."
Along the path to the capital; the city now in sight at long last, Tharja and co. were almost there.
"Oh, hey! We're almost there. I can't wait to snack on some good candies." Gaius exclaimed, his reserves of sweets now depleted; especially with Mustafa's child in tow. Even the Thief can't hoard candy in front of a kid. Tharja couldn't wait to be done with this. Her walking upped just a tad as someone reached up and grabbed hold of her wrist.
"Wait."
"What is it? We're almost there. Don't you want to see your brother?" When Tharja looked into her eyes, however; she noticed something was off. The Sister's eyes trailed to her left.
"Something is here. I'm detecting many other targets approaching the capital from the Northwest." Suddenly the group could hear rustling in the distance. "Quick! Hide!" The group would move into the thick brush and trees for cover.
"What the hell are you sensing? Bandits? They wouldn't be stupid enough to charge the capital. Not while my Orpheus is there!" Tharja would ask while Mustafa's wife finally caught up with her child close in her arms.
"Mama…. What's happening?" The boy would ask his Mother, quick unease seeping into his heart.
"Don't worry, kid. We'll keep you safe." Gaius would assure the boy. "Hey, Sister Bubbles, what do you mean 'sensing'? I don't see anything."
"Oh you don't know?" Tharja would cut him off. "She has a bit of a…. Talent for sensing things. Hostiles and Allies alike. She calls it 'Rally Heart', whatever that means."
"Yes, that's it. But quiet, all of you. I must concentrate. See what's going on. Gaius, keep an eye out while you Tharja watch our Six." The young woman would close her eyes, trying to feel out the environment. Looking further ahead, she could sense more than vague numbers. She felt their movement speed; their pace slowed and decrepit, but focused on one direction. Such a way tipped her off immediately to what they were. But how many was the next question. Their scattered numbers made it hard to count properly. She could only estimate. But when she came to a rough idea, her eyes would open quickly, her face turning to a dreadful expression. Her next breath came out heavy, giving Tharja a bad feeling.
"What do you sense?" Tharja would ask.
"There's…. At least a legion's worth. I sense at least over hundreds of Risen. But there may be more."
"What the hell? No one is paid enough to fight that many!" Gaius would nearly shout in frustration. "We're not fighting them all off, are we? In case you forgot, we got a General's Wife and Son in tow! We can't fight them off and protect these two at the same time."
"I know! I'm thinking…" She would reply with frustration. These numbers are way too much for these three. Ten Risen would push it, but it would still be possible; but not that times a Hundred. "Hold on. Gaius. Tharja. Is there an alarm system for the capital here like there is in Plegia's?"
"Well, yeah. It's pretty similar. Watchtowers and bells and all that stuff."
"Okay. I got an idea." As she said that, some Risen would start to seep out of the thicket parallel to them, the path the only thing separating them. The Boy was nearly on the verge of tears. And a crying child would easily give them away. "Tharja. Can you get some fire magic ready?
"What...? Do you seriously intend to fight them? You don't have any time to play Martyr and die for this." The Mage would inch closer to the Elder Sister.
"I'm not. None of us are." She would move closer to the Family of Two, petting the boy's head to comfort him. "I want you to fire three shots of Fire into the air above where those Risen are one after the other. It should get the attention of the guards and when they see those Risen, they can sound the alarms and at least the Ylisseans will be coming to intercept them. We'll sneak along the forest until we can enter the capital grounds. There we can hide these two much easier. After that… I'll go and help fight these monsters off." Her attention would focus on the boy and mother. "Can you two stay strong just a bit longer? We're all getting you home to Mustafa safely. I promise." The boy would nod.
"I'll trust you, Miss. Just be careful. Mustafa and myself would not like the idea of you dying to see us together again."
"Oh, I am aware. Henry told me as well."
"Henry? The Boy still lives?" She sounded a bit surprised because she and Mustafa had not seen him in years.
"Mmhmm. But we can talk about that later. Tharja, are you ready?" Her gaze would shift to the Mage, who had three fireballs around her.
"Yeah, yeah. Just tell me when." She would shrug.
"Alright. You two, get ready to run. Gaius, you stay close to them. Sneaking around is what you do best."
"You got it. C'mon, we gotta move quickly when she gives the word." He would get the two to stand up behind him.
"...Go!" As soon as the word was given, Tharja launched her fireballs one after the other to signal the eyes of those in the watchtower.
"Move!" Gaius would bring the two along while Tharja would follow after she launched the final one. Orpheus' sister would be the last to move, keeping her sense sharp in case they were to be followed by any of the Risen, who looked too focused to care for now.
At the watchtower, the guards at first saw travelers approaching; thinking it was Tharja and co., but when they hid, away from the road, the two guards were on alert until they spotted the bright fire exploding easily, but what did it mean? Now they were at full attention.
"What's that supposed to mean? Are mages attacking us?" One guard asked the other.
"Hold. It launched at the same rate as we ring our alarm bells whenever there is a threat. Maybe this is a sign. Someone must be conveying a message to us... Look below! Wait, what the…? There's Risen! Ho, look here! Do you see them?"
"Y-yeah! I count at least twenty! But in the back of them, I think there are more. This is unnatural! They're all coming in so much more aligned!" Instead of asking more questions, the guard would rush to the bell and begin ringing it. Once. Then Twice. And then finally, a third time. This was not a drill. The citizens would know. Soon, this would echo throughout the rest of the Capital. Danger was approaching. "Get the archers ready! Scramble the knights! Inform the Exalt! We need the Shepherds and the Tactician!" The bells continued to ring as they rushed to prepare for battle.
Inside the castle, Orpheus and Chrom were in the throne room discussing Mustafa and his fate, moments before the alarms would ring.
"We should let him return to the capital. It's his home and I'm certain that he would wish to go back to a more familiar environment, despite the chaos."
"Hold a moment, Chrom. I don't trust Plegia still; perhaps we should let him and his men live here, away from the conflict. I'm certain Mustafa would agree."
"Then we should ask him. I just fear how they may be treated if people discover who they are. I know not all of us have overcome the wounds of both wars-"
The sound of ringing bells could be heard, cutting off Chrom's words, who immediately rose from his throne. "What's going on?" To which Frederick would push open the large doors to the room quickly, on his own strength as Chrom's close guards entered with him.
"Milord! Risen are attacking! We believe there are many! Numbers now count a Hundred and more still come! What are your orders?" Frederick would inform on the situation; the Exalt and Tactician are now on high alert.
"We fight! Orpheus, what do you suggest?" The Exalt would turn to his right hand man.
"Alert all commands. Deploy the army and keep eyes on the other sections of the city in Defensive Formation Circle. Pegasus Knights will be our eyes in the sky. Frederick, ride on with other Cavaliers to alert the citizens of the western half of the capital to evacuate to safety. If we need to, we can shelter them in the Castle. If any Risen are sighted on the eastern portion, any soldier must alert us so we may adjust accordingly. The Shepherds will lead the defense of the city with the army." Orpheus' commands were clear and precise. "Let's move!" All men inside would rush out the door and head down the stairs. As they reached the bottom, another idea sprung in Orpheus' mind. "Chrom!" He would stop in place. "I'm going to release Mustafa and his men. They can help us repel these monsters back. I'll join up with you afterwards." He would go back and down to the dungeon, finding Mustafa and his Five men out of their cells minutes later.
"Orpheus, what is this alarm? Are we under attack?" Mustafa would ask before being given an axe.
"Risen attack. We're counting over at least a Hundred but there is likely more. I don't know the status of the rescue team or your family. But they'll be in danger if they walk in on this invasion. Come with me. We'll make a quick trip to the armory and then regroup with the main army. You're fighting for the good of the continent today, boys. Hope you're ready."
"You heard him, men! We're showing Ylisse how Plegia combats evil! Let's move out!"
The men would roar and cheer. It's been too long since they had combat worth fighting for. "Yeah!" "Let's crack some Risen skulls!" The plague was everywhere and a cause anyone could get behind. The group would hurry up to the surface to the armory room where they were given only minutes to suit up.
"Grab the weapons and armor you're most comfortable with. I need the best out of all of you. Once we leave the castle we rush west to the Western Entrance where all the fun awaits. Protect any civilians and don't let one Risen into the Inner city. Am I understood?"
"Sir, yes sir!"
Moments later, they would emerge and hurry onwards when Orpheus spotted something off the corner of his eye. A cloaked individual would move up to the second floor. The Tactician would immediately stop with Mustafa turning right after him.
"Orpheus! Why are you stopping?"
"An intruder is here. I'll check it out! Inform Chrom that I'll be there after I deal with them!" Orpheus would break apart and head up stairs. It looks like the intruder was heading to the treasury.
In the western edge of the capital. The main garrison stationed there was pushed to its limits. Barely fifty Risen were slain and yet they pushed into the city. Between protecting the citizens and the growing threat. They were pushed towards the brink. One Risen even pushed a Soldier against the wall, the woman fearing for her life as the dead one's hand was pressing into her throat before a sword pushed into its chest.
"The one you should be after… is me!" The sword would slice clean through the Risen's shoulder, causing it to immediately disintegrate.
"E-Exalt!" It was Chrom! He and his Shepherds had finally arrived, immediately engaging the Risen.
"We must defend the People at all costs. Grab a weapon and fight on!" His Rally cry would embolden his subjects as the counterattack against the Risen. "Push them back! Do not chase unless they pass our line! We must protect the citizens until they all are evacuated safely!" Chrom would look up to see Archers getting up to High ground, the loss of Virion being felt for once. The Archers would pick off those who could not fight back. While the mages were a bit further back, also striking at those they can pick off while focusing more on those in the city.
From a location more south from the fighting, Gaius would emerge with the family behind him. Knights already pointing their Spears at him with an Archer above.
"Whoa now! Put those things away. We're not with those Risen." He would stand in front of the Mother and Child. But the sound of a neigh from a Pegasus above in the sky would come down.
"Stand down!" It was Cordelia! She was encircling around the city to watch for other Risen when she quickly spotted the group at the edge of the thicket. "He may look like a criminal, but he is a Shepherd!" The men would lower their weapons. "Gaius, what are you doing here?"
"The new girl spotted the Risen so we took a detour to get these two to safety." He would reveal the two he was escorting. "Is there a shelter we can hide them in while the fighting is going on? Can someone get them there?"
"I believe we can arrange for someone to take them back to the castle." A soldier would step forward.
"You guys got an extra bow? I'll do better at range picking off those disgusting freaks." To which the Archer above would toss first his bow and then his quiver before heading back down to get another set. "We're in business. Hey Cordelia, mind giving me a lift to the fight? And by the way, I got a couple of lady friends coming out of the thicket any second so don't shoot them either." And he would quickly join up with Cordelia as the two quickly raced towards the intense battle. "So how many are we dealing with?"
"So far we've counted 400 of them. Is that how much you saw?" This was already feeling like a hard endeavor, but Gaius knew the rough estimate.
"So uh, that new girl sensed about… a thousand of them. At least."
"What!? How are there-? And Sensing!?" She was a bit confused, but the numbers were what got her shaken up. "Who is this woman you keep talking about?"
"Oh, I know her name at least."
Back in the castle, Orpheus would turn the corner to the treasury after searching around for the Intruder. When he did, he spotted him at long last. Holding a golden crown in one hand but also a guard who also must have spotted him in the other. He held him tightly by his throat, facing the wall.
"Let him go." Orpheus stepped forward, immediately pulling out his Elthunder tome and charging up his magic. The intruder would turn his head toward Orpheus, but his grip would grow stronger, the guard struggling to breathe, trying to make this fiend release him, but to no avail. "Let. Him. Go." The Masked man would offer a wide grin before pushing the guard into the wall with such strength before tossing him aside; the man passed out only rendered unconscious, thankfully.
Orpheus took a step back from the man. As for one moment, one mere second, his mind and heart sank. His body moved on its own. For in that one split second, he felt genuine fear for his life. This man was no petty thief. To play around in combat would mean death. But the Tactician would have to stand his ground. Once the thief would put the crown away in his coat, Orpheus would speak.
"I don't know why you're here, but I'm bringing you in." Orpheus would brandish his sword in his right hand while keeping that magical thunder in his left. The Masked Man would move his hand forward, the sword that was on the ground that belonged to the guard would shake before flying to his hand. Now he had a weapon. Looks like he was determined to fight his way out of this. And Orpheus was completely unaware of how significant this encounter was to be for him. All he could think was to oppose this menace. And survive. A nagging feeling in his heart opposed his actions, but he had to do his duty.
Away from the castle, the battle raged on; the Risen pushing the Ylisseans, more ground was being given up as they slashed and smashed the buildings. Their only goal was chaos. And the Ylisseans were out to restore order.
"Gods! Where is Orpheus?" Chrom shouted as he continued to slice apart more Risen. But his only reply was a loud one from a tone he almost didn't recognize.
"Head down, Exalt!" Chrom would duck as a short axe flew above him, striking down one that was adjacent to him.
"Mustafa!"
"Aye, I've come with my Men to return the favor." He would pull out his axe off the dissipating body. "Orpheus spotted an intruder in your castle. Hopefully he'll defeat him quickly and come join us for this fun."
"Gods, we need him right now. Duck, Mustafa!" As the Plegian General complied, he just dodged a Javelin that was launched to strike his skull. But after that, an Elfire flame rushed between them and exploded inside a group of Risen. Could it be? "Orpheus!?" He would turn his head to see it was actually Tharja who fired it, but another woman was beside the Sorceress. "Tharja? When did you-?"
"Pardon, but there's no time for that. I see Orpheus is not with you, so allow me to take his place as your tactician." She would start preparing an Elfire of her own.
"If you're really good at it, then we'll need all the help we can get!"
But as he said that, her ball of flame grew beyond a standard Elfire and was lobbed above the Ylisseans, crashing and burning more Risen than before.
"Ah, I should make this clear; my magical prowess is where I excel. Now, to administer commands." Her eyes closed which would confuse many considering she was in this storm of a battlefield's eye. After a few seconds, her eyes were open and she offered her tactics. "Mustafa! Stick with your men and move towards the next street which is One block south from here. Risen are starting to descend down there."
"Aye! You heard the lass. Let's move!" Clearly she knew what she was talking about. Her words were just as precise as Orpheus'. Oddly so. Even her outfit matched his. Almost eerily so. But Chrom had no time to think about this.
"Chrom! Spare some knights and send some to fill the small alleyways. The cramped environments work best with spears and they cannot be swarmed that way. Tharja and I will provide magical firepower to make up for our weakening choke point on this street." She would put away her Elfire tome and would bring out a Wind tome for some quick cuts into enemy lines. Not as powerful, but picking off weakened foes and slowing others can prove vital in what will be a long battle. But she couldn't sense her brother here. All these people and she couldn't sense him anywhere. But she had no time to search for him. Helping Chrom and his army was the priority for now. She could only pray he was safe.
A quick bolt of lightning was launched forward, the intruder merely stepped back and avoided it but the Grandmaster would follow up with a fast, hard swing against him. One blade pressed hard against another. Although, something was wrong. With a hard downward swing like what Orpheus just did, even great swordsmen would need good strength to keep it at bay. This Intruder only needed one hand to repel Orpheus and he did it like it was a child striking at him. This felt all sorts of wrong to the Tactician. His body would back up, as if giving him another warning to escape this fight. But Orpheus would go for faster strikes this time. Using them to poke and prod as his defenses to gauge for a weakness. But the masked foe would repel them from the left, the right, and the left again. Strangely, not offering a counter or party of any sort.
"What the hell is your scheme… answer me already!" Orpheus would demand and yet there was no answer. Was this one only trained in Form Three? He only defended, and his silence irritated the Tactician.
"Speak, you dastard!" Orpheus would go for another downward strike, completely open, but his swinging angle adjusted to a slight diagonal drop, but that would not fool this one. He caught it with his blade but raised his other hand, launching wind to Orpheus' chest in a blunt shape. It was not sharp like your standard wind magic, but it was like taking a jab to the chest. Orpheus' felt the wind almost get knocked out of him as he got launched back, barely catching himself from falling. It's clear now. This intruder was playing with him. Orpheus was not sure even Chrom's aid could turn the tables against this fearsome foe.
But as he stabilized his balance, a force would push him up and at the wall to his right, slamming him against his back with such a heavy impact before falling to the ground on his right shoulder. His consciousness fading in and out. Was this the end?
He would sense footsteps moving towards him. His life would end failing Chrom at the most inopportune time. When he saw the boot of his enemy, he felt this truly was the end. A pause in his steps indicated as such. But after a few seconds, he would press on, ignoring him as he walked on, not turning the corner into the main staircase and rather continuing onwards to the balcony outside. The location where Chrom greeted his people and declared himself Exalt of the land. Was he planning to go to the fight and ambush them? No, they would not stand a chance with the Risen behind their backs. Orpheus had to get up! Get up, Tactician! Orpheus could not let this man get away and cause more suffering to others. He was too much of a threat to walk away from here. To stop this man from causing more harm to his new home than what already is happening, he needed to get up!
The Tactician would have both his palms against the tiled floor beneath him, trying to push himself up. In this weakened state of his, he would not stand a chance. He needed more power. That power he drew from within when he faced Gangrel. He never could draw upon it since then, no matter how hard or frequent he would spar against Chrom. But the fact that he felt his life was truly in danger, and alongside the thoughts of everyone in the Shepherds, everyone he knew being potentially at risk for harm or worse, sparked something within his being. And once that feeling flowed through his body, he stood up at last; the newfound energy bringing back to reality. Those bright flames were now enveloping his entire being. As he stood tall, his mind and heart racing as fast as the flames that swarmed his body, he took a single step, and nearly vanished from sight; but the thief would sense his attack, yet this time, he would barely catch it, being pushed back an inch; now needing both hands to repel Orpheus. But there was no sign of worry or fear on him. Only a wider grin.
"I've had enough of you! Now we fight for real!" He was clear in his plan. He intended to turn the tide and capture or kill this intruder! The real battle begins.
Orpheus' would step back, going for a broad upper swing to bring up the thief's guard, and as his blade was caught by his opponents, his aim would change low, now he was pressing against his guard, now scouting for chinks in this metaphorical armor of his. Their blades were pushing against one another, facing downward as the two would step around to the side. Orpheus would offer a quick parry, in which it too would be blocked. His increased strength, did not even the odds, but no longer could this one toy with him like a predator toying with its prey.
Now, for the first time, the masked foe would strike; going for an upper broad stroke, the blade swinging horizontally. It was so easy for Orpheus to handle. He crouched, his right hand letting go of the sword as the left's grip tightened before going for his own swing at the torso; the thief would hop back, avoiding the slash. Orpheus felt it; he was pushing him back. The tide may be turning. Why win with raw power when now that the gap has been shortened, he can defeat this one with his knowledge of both swordplay and the environment around them. But the thief would start to step back. Now Orpheus was brought back to reality; escape was his goal here. That crown was what he wanted and now he was going to head out the balcony for an escape. Orpheus would jump towards him, swinging his blade down for a hard downward slash. His adversary would block but he was inching ever closer to the exit. With a surge of strength, the thief would push Orpheus' own blade back. Just how strong was this man? But as Orpheus caught his balance, the thief launched another gust of dulled wind. He was not pushed back to the floor like before, but it did still push him back, still standing. But once Orpheus stopped the momentum, he saw his opponent book it to the outside. Giving his foe chase, the thief stood atop the balcony's marbled railings, throwing the sword at Orpheus' direction to force him to evade. Now he had secured his objective. Orpheus was now at the doorway and would see the cloaked man, still plastered with a smirk, allow himself to fall below, surrendering to Gravity's will.
"No! Get back here!" He would give chase but once he reached the railing to look down, a familiar voice got his attention.
"Orpheus!" The voice would call from above. It was Cordelia! The knight would dive down as if in a rush to save someone's life. "What happened? I thought I saw you leap off the balcony."
"What? No, that was not me. How did you think that was me?"
"I was told that you were not at the battle." Her pegasus would stop and stand at the balcony. "And I saw someone leap off the rail and I feared it was you. The man's height and build looked like yours from afar, but as I was descending down, I saw you emerge and-" Orpheus would realize he needed to look down from the spot that Sneak had fallen. When he looked down there was nothing. No body, no sign of an impact. It was as if he never fell there. Or that he was there at all.
"He's gone! Damnit!" Orpheus was certainly bothered. His face was painted with anger, the flames around his body burning even hotter.
"Orpheus! That power is back!"
"Yeah. I was able to bring it out when he nearly killed me. His strength… was not normal. I couldn't get any hit on him. He played with me for half of the fight. This was the only reason I held my own."
"I see. Can you keep that power going on more? We may need it against these Risen." And Orpheus was brought back up to the task that mattered more overall.
"Right! I need a lift, Cordelia. We need to gather the ladies for a Birds of Prey maneuver. It's time we tip the scales on this battle."
Chrom was nearing his limit. As were some of the men around him. They had dealt with only about 500 of them. But this was starting to get out of hand. Five men are now deceased, and some are getting injured. By sheer numbers they were starting to get overwhelmed by this onslaught. The young woman had proven to turn the tides, but the fact that only half the army was fighting this made the goal of victory more out of grasp. The next wave was meters away, this one moment to catch their breath only showed how they were losing morale.
"Frederick! Are the citizens safe?" He panted, his blade planted into the ground beneath him to hold him steady.
"Yes, sir. I have already sent a man on horseback to rally them over here. But I cannot ascertain the exact time they will arrive."
"Then we make our stand. Miss Tactician, any other orders?" He would turn to her.
"We should pull back. At least a few meters back to filter the Risen and make it a bit easier for your troops." She would only think of preservation for the army. The odds were difficult. The loss of more men seemed inevitable. She was not ready for that. But something was noticed in her mind. But before she could pinpoint what exactly, something fast was approaching from the sky. Soldiers started to notice, and as both she and Chrom saw what it was, it quickly dove down to the surface and pierced two Risen, their bodies being sent back to the ground, easily dealt with. Now the woman realized who was here. A smile of relief with a sigh came from her lips. "You're still one for some theatrics, aren't you brother?" But after she said that to herself, the army realized who came to their aid first.
"Q-Queen Sumia!" It was Sumia who had come crashing down with her Pegasus. "Help has arrived!" Chrom would look further upward, relieved to see his wife but wanting to confirm if she was alone. There were more of them higher up, ready to come down and strike, but voices from behind him would soon be heard.
"Exalt!" "Lord Chrom!" The emboldened voices were fast approaching his Six. When he turned, he saw the other half of his armada come to his aide. It was way too soon. Frederick had only sent the messenger not that long ago. But the tide was turning. The spark of hope has been created. It only made sense that he would be the one to ignite it.
Up in the sky, Orpheus was riding with Cordelia. Sumia's appearance was a slight morale boost but the army they rallied before departing for the battlefield made it rise even higher.
"Please begin your descent, Cordelia. Let's win this already."
"As you command, Orpheus." She and her sisters would descend down, dive bombing to pick off Risen one by one. And yet, their descent was slower. As if Cordelia and Orpheus had other plans. And they did. Once they arrived at the appropriate altitude, Cordelia would adjust herself before the descent.
Orpheus would surprise her with a kiss on the cheek. "Don't worry. We'll get over this in time." He would assure her, on either what happened before all this or the fight itself, she shook her head, a small smile now on her lips.
"You think I'm worried? Let me show you. Get your magic ready." She would begin her descent. Orpheus had his Arcthunder tome in hand as they went downward at a less sharper angle than the others. But once he was at the right spot and his power fully charged, Orpheus would hop off and descend downward, swiping his hand down that held his Arcthunder, causing it to branch off into three large bolts and crash down on the incoming Risen as he landed. All their attention was at him. Chrom stepped forward, smiling as his closest ally had finally arrived on the battlefield. And with that power in tow as well. The whispers amongst the army noticing the flames that surrounded him.
"...Hey, you guys don't mind me getting in on the action, do you?" His Arcthunder tome would slam shut, the sound of the once exhausted army roaring and raving of his arrival filling the city streets. Chrom would immediately rush towards his Tactician.
"Orpheus, you Mad Dog! What took you so long?"
"Just a little rat hunting. You know I wouldn't miss something like this for long." The Tactician would reassure his liege. "Speaking of hunting, how's this one going?"
"There's too many of them. Thank the Gods you made it here. And you brought the rest of the army along with you. What shall we do now?" His tone shifted to one of Confidence now that his most trusted comrade in battle was here to turn the tide. The Grandmaster would turn to face the Exalt and all of his army.
"You all who fought to the point of exhaustion, who can barely lift their own blades. I ask that you stand back and watch. We and the reserve shall dispense with the remaining forces. I shall not hold it against you." He suggested, drawing out his sword. "If you still believe you can fight and protect the capital; the heart of Ylisse, then join me! Together we cannot fail. Who is with me!?" The entire army roared in support, chanting the Tactician's name as his reply was only a smirk and his body turning around to face their enemies. The flames around him started to pick up and darken to a red hue. "Then let's goooo!" His sword would raise upward as he led the charge. No soldier backed down. Their spirits were renewed with a newfound resolve thanks to his entrance and rally cry. The Risen stood no chance. Orpheus' strategy was proving to be immediately overpowering once he took full control, unaware of the aid they had before his arrival.
"Fusilade! Ready!" The Archers on the rooftops all angled their arrows upward, all facing the same direction. "Wind mages! Prepare to follow their lead!" He had a gambit for a situation like this, and he intended to use it here. To disperse with as many Risen as possible in one swift strike. All was set up, the soldiers pulled back to avoid its range. "And, Fire!" The Archers would respond on cue, a rain of arrows launched up as they reached the apex of their upward launch and began their hard descent. "Bring it down!" The signal for the mages as their wind magic targets the arrows themselves to push them down even harder and faster. The Risen would be pierced with ease, if any were armored, even they would have trouble surviving this attack. "Excellent work! Let's wrap this up! With me, everyone!" The Grandmaster with the restored army had crushed the remaining forces till all were exterminated. Even one Risen could be troublesome to a village. To none of their knowledge, Validar had seen their work. And he spotted in the back of the crowd a familiar face. The alternative was with them now. That means he needed to silence her. He would disappear from the forest's interior, heading to the rendezvous point.
Away from the battlefield, Validar would see he was last to arrive. His Master and his Apprentice were already waiting for him. His Master would not wait much longer to share his news and ask his question.
"I have it in my possession. Time can now safely revert back to its original course." Grima would immediately reveal the Crown before the two. "And now I must know, is she with those fools?"
"Yes. She is where she should be. Shall we begin with the casting?" Validar would ask, looking to Aversa, as she was the key for this to work.
"Yes. We must not risk her leaking our secrets and ruining the future. This is the last step. Her memories are a threat. Seal them. They know all that they need to know for now." Grima ordered, his arrogant tone was backed by his cunning demeanor, now removing his mask.
"Very well. Aversa. You prepared for this, I take it?" Validar would move in front of Aversa, facing his Apprentice and elevating his hands forward.
"Yes, my Master. I am prepared to overcome the risks." The Hex in question was a newly created, highly risky spell that could backfire on the user should they slip up at any point.
"Ah, to witness what prevented this body from revealing its secrets to Chrom. I'm very interested to see it in play." Grima would speak in curiosity. "Even I am unable to break it." His tone showed genuine praise for the first time he had arrived in this timeline.
The two would begin their chanting, needing absolute silence and tuning out the world around them. They would only have one chance at this. And it needed time to complete. Time they may not have had.
Back into the capital, the army would cheer for their hard earned victory as the sun was beginning to descend from the sky. The army would begin to head back deep into the city as the Shepherds would gather around the Exalt and his Tactician, the latter being pelted by questions.
"Were you waitin' to drop down from the sky like that?" Vaike would be the first Orpheus heard.
"No, I was dealing with an intruder in the castle.
"An Intruder?" Frederick interjected, wanting to know who it was. "Did you capture him? Or figure out his intention?"
"No. But I noticed he took one thing from the Vault. He took a crown. One I'm not familiar with. And he got away too. He was way stronger than I could handle." The whispers from the Shepherds and army grew from this.
"Truly? Even with your power?" Frederick found it surprising to hear Orpheus stood no chance.
"No, it only nearly evened my odds against him. He had a mask so I couldn't identify him."
"I shall do a review of everything that was placed in there and we shall determine if anything else."
"Chrom, I'm going to need to keep getting stronger to fight threats like that. I should not have been away from all this."
"I understand, my friend. We all will need to keep growing to better secure the land for everyone." Orpheus would be assured by the Exalt. But then a large presence would enter the circle.
"Ah, Orpheus. Glad to see you're in one piece."
"Mustafa! Did you and your boys get some good exercise?"
"It felt good to swing my axe after so long. My men definitely enjoyed this more than I did."
"Ah, that reminds me. Gaius!" He would search for him in the crowd. "Where is his family? I assume you tucked them away somewhere?"
"Yeah. The Western church was sheltering some people so I had them hide there."
"Where is this Church, lad?" Mustafa would cut him off immediately, his tone shifting after realizing his family might be here.
"Yeah, it's down this street we're standing on. You can't miss it." Gaius would tell him quickly to get him on his way.
"I must go, Orpheus. I must see that they are safe."
"Go ahead. We can speak later with both of them by your side." And the Plegian General would quickly run off with his men to go find his wife who had not seen for over a season's worth of time. No one could blame for hastily moving away like that.
"Excuse me." An unfamiliar voice would now interrupt after a moment of silence. Orpheus would turn to see this woman with hair that shared the color of his own, as well as a matching outfit. It made him take a step back as this was not something he was expecting. She was like a female doppelganger.
"Uh, who are you? Anyone know her?" Her only response was a giggle to his reaction. As if she saw it coming.
"We know not who she is, but she claims to know who you are. I would exercise caution." Frederick would interject, only to be called out by his Exalt.
"Frederick, please. She saved us from being overwhelmed by those numbers. She has my trust now."
"Wait, what? Is she a Tactician too?" Orpheus now really sounded surprised by this, only to get the girl to laugh once more before finally speaking.
"Oh, Orpheus. I have much I want to tell you." That line sounded bad with no context; the redhead nearby the Tactician began to feel a tightness in her chest.
"Whoa whoa, just what are you implying, lady?"
"So you really did forget about me just like Tharja said. Well, I guess I should tell you all my name and such." She took a step back, along with a deep breath before continuing. "I'm a Tactician just like you. My name is Lyra. And I am your big sister!"
A small moment of silence before a loud "What!?" could be heard from everyone around her. Things made sense, but also more confusing for them. The day was not over yet.
Hero: So here she is, Lyra, aka Female Robin! From a gameplay perspective, I get why the other Robin can't be in the game. But here? I feel it could make things more interesting! And yes, she will have her Morgan too, but he'll be named something else. Female Morgan will keep her name. I'll do trivia for her next chapter. I know this may not be as well received with everyone but I did say this was a re-imagining of the game's story. So I hope you all are willing to give her a chance. We'll learn about her more next time! Oh and there will be one more major battle in this arc. My only hint is that only one person who fought in this whole battle scene will be involved in it. No more hints though. Hope you enjoyed this chapter. Stay safe out there.
