Author's Note: We've reached it! I'm so glad I was able to complete this part of the rewrite, even if it took me longer than I thought and certain things certainly changed over the course of writing. I can't wait for part two! Finishing this comes first though, so I won't get ahead of myself.

Fun fact: When I started, I truly planned this as simply a better rewrite of the original fic. The chapters focusing on Mark only sprung into being as I was writing and realized that if Will was truly going to grow and learn as a character, he needed to learn from his mistakes and understand his limits. Hopefully that made him better and more likable in the end.

Thank you all so much for reading Part One. Please review if you get the chance, and continue to read once I get the next arc going.

Chapter 32: Until We Meet Again

The morning saw their second farewell. The first was still the departure of Rath, but this time the farewell felt much larger. Hector was heading back to Ostia. Alongside him was Leila, Matthew and Serra. Erk would also be leaving, though he would be going his own way shortly into their journey.

"It's been interesting." Erk said to Will as Hector spoke to Eliwood. "I never expected to be dragged into something like this, but I won't say it wasn't a worthy cause."

"That might be the kindest thing you've said this entire trip." Will said.

Erk let out a small huff. "I'll admit I've found a lot more to study. Serra's use of healing magic is impressive, despite her personality. Mark's use of magic especially interested me."

"How so?" Will asked.

"He didn't seem restricted by type." Erk said. "Light magic, dark magic and anima magic are usually caster exclusive. I didn't see him use any light magic, but he was able to use both dark and anima fluently. Add in his abilities with a blade and you've got a frightening enemy indeed."

"So what, I should expect you to be a magic swordsmen the next time we meet?" Will asked.

"Hardly." Erk said. "Any knowledge died with him, so it'd take years for me to just develop a theory. It won't stop me from trying, though."

"Good luck." Will said.

"I'll need it." Erk agreed. The two shook.

"Now I know how sad you'll be to see me gone." Serra said, flipping her pigtail back with her usual flair. "But you mustn't get choked up."

Will tried to hide his smile as she spoke. "I promise I won't cry. Too much."

"Hmph. Well I suppose that's to be expected." Serra said, her smiling showing her pleasure with the response. "But if you need any healing you don't hesitate to trot on over to me okay? I'll make sure to fix you right up."

"I appreciate it, Serra. I'll try not to get too cut up, though, if that's alright." Will said.

"Of course! If you got injured too much, I'd have to charge you. And my personal healing doesn't come cheap." Serra said. "So I'll settle for a letter. Once a month, got it?"

Ah, so that was it. She was going to feel a bit lonely leaving them and wanted them to keep in touch. "I'll be sure to write."

"Good. Can you believe Erk? He told me he'd write if he felt like it! The answer to that should be of course, right? I mean, it's only natural to check in on friends." Serra said, huffing.

"That's Erk's way of saying yes." Will said. "You'll have to take it, I think. He'll probably write."

"Probably doesn't mean he will!" Serra grumped. "I shouldn't have let Lord Hector finish his payment until he agreed to stay in touch."

Serra seemed to grow attached to people relatively quickly, if she wanted all of them to write her. Though perhaps that would be just so she could brag about her help in the Caelin conflict to her new friends in Ostia. Whatever it was, Will was glad she had been around. When Serra offered her hand, Will politely bowed and kissed it. She withdrew it quickly, blushing.

"I didn't expect you to actually do that." She muttered.

"Have to keep the best healer on her toes somehow, right?" Will asked. It earned him a rough smack from her staff, but it had been worth the laugh.

"And so our intrepid partnership comes to a close." Matthew said. Leila gave him a look from behind that nearly made Will break out in laughter. He had to admit, Matthew's word choice was ridiculous even by his standards.

"You mean you getting to pull me around has come to an end." Will said.

"You have your version, I have mine." Matthew said. "I never did thank you, come to think of it."

"For what?" Will asked.

"For trusting me back in Araphen." Matthew said. "It's not an easy thing to do. You probably figured out I was a spy pretty quick right?"

"Something like that." Will said. "Maria did describe you to a T, if you recall."

"Hah, I guess my rugged good looks work against me." Matthew grinned.

"We'll go with that." Will said.

"Also…" Matthew said. "Thank you. For showing us the way."

"You deserve to be here even more than I." Will said. "You're her friends and family."

"Still, I know you haven't really had a chance to come to terms with anything that's happened to you this past year." Matthew said. "That must be why you can't see it, right?"

"See what?" Will asked.

"Matthew." Leila said threateningly. "That's not your place to pry into, is it?"

"Ah, you're right of course." Matthew said. "Sorry pal, my lips have been sealed."

"That's infuriating." Will said as he raised an eyebrow. "You've got to stop doing that."

"And yet that's what keeps them coming back for more." Matthew said. "Come on, shake."

Matthew offered his hand, and Will took it in spite of his halfhearted anger towards the thief. "Take care."

"I'm not saying goodbye." Matthew said. "For me it's going to be 'until we meet again.'"

"Then until next time." Will said.

"See you then." Matthew said with a grin.

"You take care of that life Maria gave you, and we won't have any problems." Hector said to Will, as his team began to depart. "Live a damn long time."

"Got it." Will said. As Hector and his group began to ride north, Lyndis' Legion turned their attention back West, where Caelin awaited.

They traveled a few days peacefully, talking and enjoying each other's company, before they reached the border of Pharae. "This is where I say farewell." Eliwood said, Lowen at his side. "It's been an honor to meet you all. I hope I get the chance to speak to you all again soon."

"That would be nice." Lyn said. "I'll be in Caelin with my Grandfather, so feel free to write."

"Of course." Eliwood said. "I'll do that then."

"I'll be going this way as well." Dorcas said. Everyone looked a little surprised except for Lucius. "My wife has been moved to a house in Pharae thanks to the pay from helping Lyndis. The doctor there specializes in treating her illness, so with any luck she'll be able to walk again. Also… we'd like to have a kid. I'll write." He said, his face becoming red as he turned away.

"It's been an honor knowing you, Dorcas." Will said. "I hope I'll see you again."

"Yes, please let us know when your child is almost born." Lyn said. "I'll be sure to come visit."

"Thank you." Dorcas said. With Dorcas in tow, the trio left into Pharae.

Their band had become considerably smaller now. Kent and Sain led the way, with Wil and Wallace following behind. Then came Lyn, Lucius, Will and Florina with Nils and Ninian bringing up the rear. This continued until they reached the border of Caelin. When they did, Nils and Ninian decided they were going to go their own way.

"Are you sure about this?" Lyn asked. "After all the things that happened…"

"We're sure." Ninian said.

"After the Taliver, the Black Fang no longer have a foothold in Lycia." Nils said. "If we use this chance to disappear into the crowd, they'll never be lucky enough to catch us again."

"I would try to stop you." Lyn said. "But you've clearly already thought about this long and hard. So just… try to write once in a while, okay? I'd like to make sure you've remained safe."

"Sure Lyn." Ninian said, gripping the young woman's hand. "Besides, you'll have to tell me when you come up with new strategies to win Will's heart, won't you?"

Lyn blushed. "Oh come on, I've tried to tell you—"She began to whisper back.

"I know." Ninian giggled. "It's about time you stopped lying to yourself though, right? It'll only make things worse the longer you drag it out."

Lyn sighed. "I'll… I'll try."

"Good." Ninian said.

"I'll miss you." Nils said, as he and Will shared a fist bump.

"Take care of yourself and your sister." Will said. "I know you can do it."

"Of course." Nils said proudly. "I've got the power of a dragon on my side."

Ninian joined them, and the three shared a hug before the two departed. The legion watched as the two disappeared from sight, hearing the sound of Nils' flute beginning to fill the air. The tune was quick and light, perhaps a traveling song he enjoyed playing when it was just him and his sister, but it gave them hope the two would be just fine.

They entered Caelin, and Lyn felt a small amount of relief to see the castle walls. The group got a chance to relax, and she took the first chance she could get to visit with her grandfather. He was excited to hear about their battle against the Taliver, and the conclusion of a long story that had finally reached its end.

As for the others, Wil and Florina went back to training the new recruits. They were busy getting caught up for the first few days, so they were afraid they would miss Will's planned departure. Will still remained however, so that fear soon began to fade.

Kent and Sain also began training the new recruits, which kept them busy throughout most of the day. This left Wallace, Lucius and Will on their own quite often.

"I was hoping I'd get a chance to talk to you, Will." Lucius said.

"About what?" Will asked.

"When you plan to travel, I was hoping I could accompany you." Lucius said. "I know this might seem strange, but I wanted a chance to teach you about light magic. I believe your block with magic may be solved after you've learned about all three."

"That's… really kind of you." Will said. "Thank you."

"It would be my pleasure." Lucius said. "After a time I will continue my search for my friend, but until then I would be honored to accompany you."

"Hah!" Wallace's gruff laugh interrupted the two. "If that's the case, I'll travel with you too."

"Well, I'm not going to stop you." Will said. "But could I ask why?"

"You need shaping up kid. This magic using and sword wielding isn't easy for you, you've made that clear. Part of it is your own attitude towards fighting, but more than that, you've never properly trained yourself!" Wallace said. "I'm amazed you survived in that Fang with those skills."

"Survive… Well only barely." Will admitted.

"So I'm going to get you physically fit enough to wield a sword without getting your sorry arse kicked." Wallace said. "If I can, I'll even get you strong enough to match that Lyn girl."

"I think that would be a pretty tall order." Will said.

"Are you going to give up before you even try?" Wallace asked.

Will thought about this for a moment. It was true. Any skill he had was mostly in assassinations. Single strikes that killed an enemy without dealing with the repercussions. The moment he had ended up on the other side of a blade, he had found fighting difficult. Lyn almost always won their sparring matches, barring a lucky hit or a well-placed use of terrain.

His use of magic had never been good either. Dark magic had been the go to since Mark taught him how to use it, and though he practiced anima magic didn't seem to come naturally to him either. With Wallace and Lucius traveling with him, he could try and improve himself while also destabilizing the Fang as he went. It was a simple case of killing two birds with one stone. To be as strong as Lyn though… That was still a tall claim to make. Wallace must've believed he could do it, or he wouldn't have offered.

"If both of you are willing to travel with me and train me…" Will said, reaching his decision at last, "I would be greatly honored."

"All you had to do was say yes kid." Wallace said. "I'll warn you now: I'm going to kick your arse to Bern and back. You'll wish you'll be dead twice over before we're done reshaping you."

"Magic training isn't easy either." Lucius said. "I'm afraid the mental challenges I'll be providing will drain you just as much as Wallace's physical ones. Prepare yourself for a difficult journey."

Will knew they were telling him out of courtesy, but he had to admit the thought was still a little scary when both basically told him they were going to tear him apart in the weeks to come. Now, with both that and the mission he wanted to accomplish in front of him, Will was beginning to feel like it was time to go.

He had helped Caelin get back on its feet with small things here and there, but there wasn't really anything else he needed to do. He had his chance to wish Lord Hausen well, show some tactics to Kent, Sain, Wil and Florina for training the recruits in maneuvers and surprising them when necessary, but he had taught Florina enough over the course of the campaign that she could probably develop strategies on her own now. The same could be said of Lyn, though she was too busy running around answering written letters from the Lords and Ladies of Lycia about Lord Hausen and Caelin's situation. After the coalition, communications seemed to be becoming more common.

That said, the longer he remained the harder it would be to leave. He knew this, in spite of how long he had remained. It had now been almost a year since he and Lyn met on the plains. It was amazing how time flew by.

It was a Hilltop just outside of Caelin. The very same hill where Lyndis' Legion stood before their assault on Caelin to save Lyndis' grandfather. Wallace and Lucius were waiting for him near the bottom. He had made sure to write a letter for everyone before leaving, but he knew it was time to go.

"Will… you're leaving, aren't you?" He heard Lyn's voice ask from behind. He turned around to meet her, the evening light illuminating her long green hair as it swayed in the wind.

"You going to ask me to stay?" Will asked. A part of him almost believing she would.

"No, I won't. I know when you've made up your mind." She said. "When I found you, unconscious on the plains… I didn't realize we would be together for so long. Not that I minded!" She quickly amended.

Will chuckled. "I didn't mind either, Lyn."

"It's just… I know I've learned a lot from you, and if traveling is what you need to learn more… I know you'll do just fine, even if you're on your own." Lyn looked away.

"For a time, I'm not sure how long, I'll be traveling with Lucius and Wallace. I know it's not the same as traveling with you, but I hope that puts your mind at ease." Will said.

"It does. They'll keep you honest in writing us." Lyn said.

"I'm not that bad." Will responded.

"Well, I have one more thing that will keep you honest." Lyn said. She hoisted a small bag off her shoulder, pulling out a bundle of clothing. She handed them to Will, who accepted them with a small amount of confusion.

"What's this?" Will asked.

"Something I've been meaning to give you." Lyn said. "Go on, open it."

Will did so. Untying the string, he pulled out a blue pair of pants and a blue shirt. The pants had a yellow sash that went with them, and the shirt had gold lining with red symbols woven into the collar. In addition, there was a blue cloak with both gold lining and several more red symbols woven onto the back. Not only must it have taken a long amount of time, it must've been made just for him. He recognized the style well, for it was similar to the outfit Lyn wore most of the time. "Lyn, this is…"

"I wanted to ask for a while." Lyn said. "The timing never seemed right, and I didn't want you to think it was out of pity if I didn't get a chance to explain. The Lorca… it's just me. I want to keep the Lorca tribe alive. Since it was once your home, and you and I share a strange fate… I wanted you to be the first new member."

"That's…" Will trailed off. He seemed to be thinking about something deeply, but didn't say.

"I know it's a lot to ask." Lyn said. "You don't even have to say yes right now, if you need time to think about it."

"No." Will said. "I'll accept."

"You will?" Lyn asked.

"Call it a feeling." Will said, smiling. "Or that I'm honored. Whichever. I'd be glad to be part of your tribe." As perhaps a way to show this determination, he took off his old worn cloak and threw the new one over his shoulder.

"Thank you." Lyn said. "This means a lot to me."

"It means quite a bit to me as well." Will said. "It's nice to have a home to come back to."

Lyn smiled warmly. "You'll become a master tactician, I have no doubt. I've seen you work, after all."

"Thanks Lyn." Will said. "Take care of yourself." After placing his new clothing into his pack, he hoisted it onto his back. With a wave to Lyn, he made his way down the hill.

"I know I'll see you again." Lyn said. "If you don't come to me… then I'll come and find you. That's a promise." She whispered to the evening air, the breeze taking her words away before they would ever reach him.

"Took you long enough, laddie." Wallace said, his large pack and weapons strapped to his back. "And here I thought you wanted to get a good distance out before nightfall."

"We can afford a leisurely pace." Will said. "I'm going to be put through the wringer, after all."

Wallace let out a laugh that filled the evening air. "True enough, laddie. Just make sure you keep up."

"Did you say goodbye?" Lucius asked, as the three began to walk.

"No, I didn't." Will said. "It's not a goodbye. It's until we meet again."

"Of course." Lucius said with a smile. "Then let our journey begin."

As they began to walk, Will opened his notebook. There was a lot he needed to record, and he didn't want to forget a single detail.

Kent, Knight of Lycia

For his bravery in fulfilling his duty to House Caelin, Kent is named Knight Commander. It is a high honor for someone so young, but no one denies his worth.

Sain, Knight of Lycia

Sain earned himself the honor of being named subcommander of the Caelin Knights. Despite his promotion, he continues to act with the maturity of one half his age, and woos all the village girls he can. He is much beloved by the citizenry.

Florina, Pegasus Knight of Caelin

Having sworn herself to Lyn's service, it feels rude to call her a Pegasus Knight of Ilia. As she trains young Pegasus Riders, she herself continues to train rigorously using all she learned from Will. One day, she hopes to impress both him and Lyn. Not that Will is aware of her true motivation.

Wil, Archer of Caelin

With his cheery outlook and happy-go-lucky demeanor, Wil quickly became invaluable to House Caelin. While he trains the new recruits in archery, Kent also takes the time to teach him manners that befit his new title. Wil isn't taking to those as well as the recruits, however.

Eliwood, Young Lord of Pharae

Upon his return home, Eliwood shares his tale with his Father. Lord Elbert, while glad his son has returned safely, is deeply troubled by the persistent problems caused by the Black Fang. He plans an expedition that will set off a month from now.

Dorcas, Fighter of Pharae

With Lyn's heritage recognized and the money required to treat his wife, Dorcas moves into Pharae to get her treatment. He continues to make good money fighting local bandits and is expecting a child next fall.

Hector, Young Lord of Ostia

His duty to his retainer complete, Hector returns to Ostia. Over the next few months, he would often take the trip to visit Maria's grave. He continues to remember his promise to Will, wondering if perhaps he came off as too harsh in his grief. Meanwhile, Lord Uther's health continues to worry him.

Serra, Cleric of Ostia

After a long detour, Serra finally arrived in Ostia. While her behavior is often irritating at best, there is no denying she is one the best healers in Ostia. Her tongue lashings quickly became legendary among the populace.

Matthew, the Enigmatic Thief

Matthew returns to service in House Ostia, Leila at his side. Shortly after, Leila is given a new mission. Though Matthew does not want her to go, Leila is determined to see her sister's journey through. Matthew can only hope her luck is better than her sister's as he watches the boat pull away.

Erk, the Wandering Mage

His contract with Serra finally complete, Erk sets off for Etruria. After returning to his mentor for a time, he receives a new contract to guard a young woman on a search. While wary at first, Erk decides to accept.

Rath, the Sacaen Nomad

Leaving on his own terms being exactly like Rath, it was difficult to discover what he had been doing. After visiting Araphen, he and his small mercenary group seemed to vanish into thin air. Despite that, hope remains that he will resurface when he is needed.

Nils, the Mysterious Musician and Ninian, the Mysterious Dancer

The two siblings left to travel the land, and write as often as they can to Lyn and the others. Nils appears to be mastering his musical talent, while Ninian continues to dance.

Lucius, the Traveling Monk

Lucius travels with Will for a time, instructing him in the magical arts, until he receives a summons from another land. After that, Will received one communication that Lucius had found the one he had been looking for. After that, one can only guess what Lucius continued to do.

Wallace, the Caelin General

For Wallace, Lyn's struggle whet his appetite to travel once more. Taking Will under his wing, Wallace beats the young man into the ground until he learns how to fight. The two stayed together even after Lucius departed, which may be a boon. Wallace as it turned out had no sense of direction, so while Will would navigate, Wallace would always try and go the wrong way.

Will, the Tactician

Will leaves to continue his training. With both magic and physical training, his tactics may not have gotten as much attention as he would like, but he knew in the long run it would be useful. As he travels Lycia, he remembers that he did not say goodbye. One day, they would meet again.

Lyn, the Swordfighter from Sacae

Lyn currently lives in Castle Caelin with her grandfather. To help with his recovery, she takes on the name of Lady Lyndis and deals with several things she otherwise would've refused. Under her care, Lord Hausen recovers, and the two go for many walks in the Caelin gardens. On clear, dry nights, Lyn can be seen high atop the hill near the castle. Whether she is remembering the plains of her youth, or searching for a friend who promised to return, none can be sure.

One year would pass in the land of Elibe before change began again.