Anyway, before I start with this story, I've already come up with something GOOD for the next chapter of A Stray Ashigaru, so watch out for the end of February. Also, please check the chapter named "Extras" I modified it to fit Mikah's character development story.
Also, don't take the Latin and French phrases here seriously, I just took them from Google Translate.
And by the way, I'm planning to bump up the rating from T to M, my upcoming plans for these story might be too horrific for a teen audience.
BTW, Chrom is 18 years old in this story since I followed the information provided by the art book of FE Awakening
Disclaimer: I do not own Fire Emblem, all characters and franchises depicted in this story belong to their respective owners.
Mikah sat by Marcus' bed. That afternoon brawl had drawn a lot of commotion, so they were forced to enter the castle with all the knocked out fighters. Mikah volunteered to watch over Marcus as he slept peacefully in the infirmary. She slowly stroked her auburn braid as her deep blue eyes watched Marcus with much attention. She was wondering what was going through his mind. She begins to become drowsy as she leaned on the table to take a short nap.
"Mama! Mama!" a little girl called out to a blonde woman sitting on a chair. The woman had rich, golden hair with a hair tie to organize it. The woman's eyes were deep blue, but strangely did not contain the life of normal eyes, as if they had stopped working a long time ago.
"Yes, my little precious Marie?" the blonde woman calls out. "Where are you?"
"Heeheehee! I'm here mama!" Marie shouted while waving her hands.
"Oh! There you are my little angel!" the mother expressed happily as she tickled the little girl, prompting a giggle from the child. "Looks like my searching skills have not failed me."
The mother then hugs her precious child as she stroked her hair.
"Mama! I have a question."
"Yes sweetheart?"
"How did you find someone like papa? If you can't see, how did you know that he was handsome? Won't it be hard?"
The mother giggled at this while cradling her precious child. She lets her child sit on her lap and says.
"Actually, being blind was what helped me find your father in the first place!"
"How mama?"
"You will not understand it now my sweet child, but being blind helped me see beyond physical beauty. When I was born, everyone thought me to be cursed, that God wanted my family punished, so everyone had avoided me."
"B-but that's mean! Why would they do that?"
"It was reasonable of them to think so. But your father came like a miracle. He saw beyond my supposed curse and wished to marry me. Your father fought those who opposed his decision and won them all for my sake. When you are blind like I am, little Marie, you will see a man's true colors and who he really is."
"Mama, will I ever find a man like papa?"
"You will sweetheart, just take my advice. Look beyond a man's looks and see the beauty of his soul."
"But mama, what if I forget your advice?"
The mother takes off her hairpiece, a hair band that had a flower on the side.
"Wear this when you grow older, as long as you wear it, you will never forget my words."
Marie looked under the hairpiece. Below it laid these words.
"Regardez au-delà du visage d'un homme et voyez la beauté de son âme"
Mikah wakes up in a start, surprised that she had such a vivid dream of her childhood. She takes off her hairpiece and the words were still etched at the bottom.
"See the beauty of his soul…." Mikah muttered while examining the little headband. "It's been eleven years since I lost her…"
Mikah looks at Marcus, who slept a bit noisily with some mumbling. Mikah had never bothered with how Marcus looked. She didn't notice the scars that blemished his face. His slightly yellow teeth from lack of hygiene. His very shaggy and messy hair.
She looks at his face and remembers all that he has done. She remembered him saving her from her rapist. She remembered him carrying her drunken body to her bedroom. She remembers him taking her home from the bar when she was drunk. She could remember him saving many of his comrades in battle, being courteous and generous to his brothers-in-arms.
"No… It can't be. Do I really…?"
She then remembers Marcus' smile and his laugh. How it melted her heart to hear and see him happy. How his face lighted up when he found out he wasn't alone in this world.
"Is it possible?"
She remembered how she felt burning jealousy when she saw Marcus getting close with other girls. How she didn't like him getting close to a woman. She then finally remembered the first time she saw Marcus in Ylisse. How she could easily make out his face in the busy crowd of Ylisstol. How she smiled at the thought of seeing him after so long.
"Have I truly fallen for Marcus?"
Mikah was left alone to her thoughts as she tries to come up with other ideas.
"It could just be infatuation." Mikah thought in denial.
"Oh please, not even you could be so untruthful!"
"Who's that!?"
"It's me, your subconscious! I'm here to put your fears to rest!"
"What fears could you possibly be referring to?" Mikah asked in an unconvincing manner.
"Pfft, don't play dumb with me! It's no wonder you've been keeping your feelings for Marcus off for this long."
"Assuming I even have feelings for him?"
"Okay then! Exhibit A, why would you offer him lodging of all people? Not even Khalid got this kind of special treatment."
"All the things I did for Marcus was because I owe him a lot for his suffering!"
"That may be true, but why were you burning with jealousy whenever Marcus got near another girl?"
"Umm…"
"How about when he was talking with that dancer in Ferox, why did you feel sad when you saw him talk with Olivia?"
"Ummm…"
"Why would you even go this far for him? Even if you owe him a lot, you still feel the need the subconscious desire to care for him. You liked talking with him and being with him before he even told you his story. Face it. You have feelings for him.
"N-No I don't! It isn't possible!" Mikah blushed while shaking her head in denial.
Mikah closes her eyes in hopes to drown out her subconscious. But she opens them to see Marcus right in her face. Marcus stared at her with a gaze that warmed her heart. She withdrew from her hands as she looked in wonder. The apparition of Marcus embraces her, leaving her heart racing, causing Mikah to smile as she thought to herself.
"I love him…"
She returns to reality, her train of thought finally bringing her to a conclusion. She sat down next to his bed and then says.
"Marcus… I'm sorry, I really am. You are truly an amazing man and I feel complete regret for having you go through all this. " Mikah said, with her face beginning to flush. "I even wonder what would happen if I hadn't run away, but now, I really wish I hadn't…"
Mikah then leans in closer and strokes his face.
"I think I've realized… No… I know I've realized my feelings for you, but you don't deserve someone like me, or all of this. I just hope that you'll wake up soon, so that I can tell you the truth and finally bring you peace."
Mikah leans in to give Marcus a kiss on the cheek. But Marcus suddenly opens his eyes, to see Mikah leaning over to him and puckering up her pink lips. Marcus seemed confused at this and asked out loud.
"Uh… Mikah, what are you doing?"
Mikah regains her senses and immediately recoils in shock at Marcus' awakening. She flushes red while backing up frantically to a wall as she felt her heart leap at Marcus' sudden consciousness.
"M-M-Marcus! H-How long have you been awake?"
"I just woke up now, what were you doing?"
"N-Nothing! Y-You didn't hear any of what I said, right?"
"Hmm? What did you say?"
"Err, nothing!" Mikah said while laughing nervously while slowly backing up to the door. "Oh, I forgot! I have attend the meeting with the Europeans, see ya!"
Mikah immediately excuses herself, leaving a very confused Marcus in his bed. She immediately runs away, hiding her blushing face. She then mutters to herself as she rested.
"Marie, you stupid woman… Stupid. Stupid."
She takes her hands off her blushing face as she thought to herself.
"Looks like I have many things to confess."
Marcus stretched up and down as he searched the room for his armor. He finds it on a nearby armor stand. He puts everything on except for the helmet as he donned his gambesson, then his chainmail, then the plate. He tightens each strap and finally tests if the armor is correctly worn by doing some movements. He walks out to the castle and tries to search for the meeting room where Mikah was. He stops a passing servant and asks.
"Do you know where the conference room is?"
"Oh! The Exalt requires your presence in the conference room! Chief Hagen and the prince are also there to discuss the plan for war!"
Marcus immediately follows the servant to the council room. The same council room where Marcus had done the miracle of turning water into wine. The room where Marcus had found that he was no longer in Europe. Marcus finally reaches the door and slowly opens it, to see the council members quietly discussing among themselves, completely different from when Marcus had first entered the room. Emmeryn notices him and smiles. She gestures to a seat and says.
"Come, take a seat, we have much to discuss."
Marcus sits beside Chief Hagen, who stood taller than most other members, making him stand out. Robin sat at Marcus' right while Chrom sat on Frederick's left. Robin and Chrom were also briefly conversing with each other.
"Where are the other Danes?" Marcus asked quietly.
"I had sent some of them to town, they deserved a break after a long day of fighting." Hagen replied. "Rune is the only one staying behind and is sparring with the rest of the Shepherds in the training grounds."
"The council is now in session!" a man shouts, interrupting Marcus' conversation.
Marcus and Hagen then sit still as the man read the agenda for the meeting.
"For our first task, have we all agreed on our strategy against Plegia? We will be hiring dedicated mercenaries to reinforce our military while we send numerous smaller armies to contain the assaults made by the Plegians. Does anyone have any suggestions to improve this plan?"
"I have a suggestion."
"Yes, Sir Robin?"
"Should we not ask aid from Regna Ferox, that they may send a small fraction of their army to aid us in any future fight?"
"That's an excellent idea Robin, we must not waste our aid from the Feroxi, but how will we inform them on such short notice?"
Chrom raised his hand.
"The Shepherds and I will make haste to Ferox to ask for aid."
"And what of the Danes?" asked one of the council members.
"They will be staying in the city, my sister trusts them as they risked their lives for our cause. We will be entrusting them to help defend the city should we be attacked."
"Does anyone have any objections to this plan?"
Frederick raises his hand.
"Yes?"
"Are these truly the forces we can muster on such short notice?" Frederick asked. "For all we know, Plegia could conquer us long before the Feroxi aid arrives!"
"That be true!" the knight-commander added. How will we Ylisseans be ready?"
All eyes were set on the logistician, who nervously readjusted his glasses and read his booklet.
"Not really… There are only two possible ways we can boost our strength on such short notice. We either bring back conscription."
"The people will rebel!" one member shouted. "We must not consider such an act!"
"I'm sorry." Emmeryn said sincerely. "But we must not make the same mistakes of our predecessors."
"I understand Your Highness." the logistician humbly replied. "I myself do not want this, but the second method may be just as horrible."
"What could it be?"
"We conscript the students from the military academies. All senior students must participate in the defense of Ylisse. There is no other method than this and conscription."
The council immediately went into uproar.
"Are you crazy!? Sending off children to die fighting?"
"It's the only way! Unless you have a better idea?"
Phila brought down the mallet repeatedly while shouting.
"There will be order!"
But no one heeded her words, arguments fly before a huge bang of metal is sounded.
With a huge CLANG, Chief Hagen had silenced the whole group. He raised his axe and briefly takes a look around before saying.
"When I was but a wee lad, I learned to use the legendary Great Dane Axe. My father had taught me everyday to swing and master the weapon, as he feared that the English would come for our people. My mother would often ask my father why would he train me to fight, I was merely a child. He said, "If the fight is truly inevitable, then our son cannot avoid it. He can only learn to survive it."
"Granted, that quote has an element of truth in it. Ylisseans, if you truly believe that Plegia will be invading your city, then your precious students will still end up fighting either way. You cannot make them sit out on this fight, especially when it comes to defending their homeland. If kept unorganized, these students will definitely die, but organized under the military and their odds of survival increase ten-fold."
Robin stroked his chin at this and said.
"So you suggest that we gather these students and organize them, but not immediately use them in an invasion, to keep them as reserves for a defense?"
"That is correct. That way, we still have time to train them for real battle while the Shepherds call for aid."
"But who will lead these students to battle should the need arise?" one council member asked.
"I suggest that we send their teachers to lead them to battle, we need all the help we can get, so we might as well use the teachers."
"Objections?"
"Aye, I do." Marcus said, raising his hand.
Everyone then turns to Marcus. Emmeryn frowns at this and says.
"Marcus… I know you wish to return to Europe, but we need your help in this war. We do not require your loyalty, we need to save as many of our people as possible."
Marcus then leans forward, having enough of their pleadings.
"I have already told yo—"
A strong wind filled in the room, even with the closed doors. The wind blew at Marcus, who tried to shield himself from the wind.
Aiden flinched as he felt a mysterious presence around him. He listens to the breeze, he feels the air. He breathes in and out and quietly mutters.
"The Lord is here…"
Marcus could hear gentle words from the wind. The wind blew strongly as it carried him from his seat, terrifying the council. Marcus could see a bright light
"Marcus…"
"Lord… Is that you?"
Everyone looked at Marcus, confused as it looked like that he was talking to himself.
"Marcus… Why do you insist on leaving these people in their time of need?"
"But Lord! I am merely doing Your will! You wanted the slaughter of infidels! I wanted forgiveness!"
"My will does not come through the words of one man, let alone the Pope. I am the Alpha and the Omega, no man should claim to know my will! And my forgiveness knows no bounds,!"
"But must I stay!? Must I really align myself with these people, these pagans!?"
"Marcus… Look at the Exalt and what she has done for her people. She has succeeded where all your priests have failed."
"Lord!? How could she have pleased more than all your servants!?"
"DO YOU NOT REMEMBER THE WORDS OF MY SON!?
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God."
THE EXALT HAS PLEASED ME THROUGH HER ENDLESS STRUGGLE FOR PEACE. FOR I AM THE LORD GOD, I AM A GIVER OF PEACE, AND ALL WHO SACRIFICE THEMSELVES FOR PEACE ARE WORTHY TO BE MY CHILDREN!"
Marcus stayed silent, the Lord Himself had expressed his disapproval for the Crusade. Marcus' fighting had been all for naught. He then asks.
"Then what do I do now Lord? How will I find redemption and forgiveness?"
"All this will be revealed in due time my son, as long as you stay, you will find what you are looking for. I have forgiven you a long time ago. Now you must forgive yourself."
Marcus finally rose back down to his seat, his armor had changed. The tabard that bore the Templar Cross had one added detail, a dove in the middle, holding an olive leaf in its beak. As Marcus bent over, everyone looked at him with much curiosity. He looks up, with with wonder and awe in his eyes.
"I had a vision."
The Shepherds were standing around and training. War was coming and they had to get ready. Sparring sessions have been arranged between Europeans and Shepherds. The spectators stood at the sidelines as they watched the duels go on.
Donnel thrusts forward his spear at Rune, Rune dodges and hooks down his hatchets on Donnel's spear. Rune then kicks him back and says.
"Work on your thrust! You need to hit the enemy as soon as possible!"
"Whew! Thanks fer the advice, Rune! Couldn't have become much better without yer help!"
"Less talking, more fighting." Rune replied.
Donnel tries to thrust again, but Rune dodges and puts an axe near Donnel's throat.
"I win."
Donnel sighed in relief as Rune withdrew his axes from Donnel's neck. Sumia smiles and writes on the paper. They were tallying the duel scores to rank who was the best
"Okay! Rune has won against Donnel! That means Donnel will be facing Stahl, and Rune will be facing Sully!"
"Hell yeah! I've been waiting for this damned rematch for a long time!"
While Rune and Sully got to their duels, Angus simply sat down while Aiden conversed with the other Shepherds. Angus could notice that some of the girls couldn't stop staring at Aiden. He chuckled at it, he couldn't blame them for admiring Father Aiden's looks. His intense stare can melt the toughest girl's heart.
Aiden struggles to keep the Bible out of Miriel's hands. He tries to keep his hands to himself as he hugged his Bible. Miriel seemed to incessantly beg for it. Well, more of patient and persistent pleading to be honest.
"May request to hold your book, I wish to make a disquisition on your fascinating book."
"No! Only men of God may hold the Holy Book."
"But I have a multitude of inquiries regarding your fascinating spellbook!"
"Do not call the Holy Book a mere spellbook!" Aiden chided.
"It is for the sake of knowledge. You men of faith simply do not understand the importance of."
Angus heard that and inwardly sighed. This woman has clearly not met a Catholic priest. Aiden smirked and held up another book.
"Wrong, I myself am a pursuer of rational thought." he said while waving a book in the air. "In fact, some churchmen are in fact, scientists."
Miriel grabs the book and reads it.
"Season of Abundant Salmon. What sort of study is this?" Miriel asked, her eyes sparkling at the knowledge.
"This is a book I have written while observing the salmon of a nearby river. After months of observation, I successfully predicted when and where the salmon would appear in huge numbers. With this knowledge, the village was never hungry."
(FUN FACT: Some priests during the Middle Ages were also scientists and even published their own studies)
Miriel smiled as she held up the book as if it were a holy item.
"Such practical and enthralling information! Where did you learn such scholarly thought?"
"I am a graduate of Oxford University Seminary, from the House of the Franciscan Order." Aiden said humbly.
"Do you mind if I add this to my collection of studies? This study seems to be very thorough."
"I'd rather you not. That is my only copy of my study and the others have already been sent to other villages."
"Could you perhaps contribute some of your scholarly thought to my studies then? I do wish to hear some insight from an accomplished academic."
"Of course, could I see your work?" Aiden asked while Miriel brought out some of her books
Angus looked amused at the display. This is what happens when two scholars meet, just an exchange of complicated ideas. But he gets surprised as he sees the blond Vaike sit next to him, glaring at the scene.
"Teach ain't likin' this." Vaike said.
"What?"
"That tall priest over there's gettin' too close to Miriel."
"Is there a problem with that?"
"I don't know… Usually Miriel's the oddball in the group. With all her math mumbo jumbo and those things that need a lot of noggin work. It just doesn't seem right havin' someone who actually relates with her on that."
"Ah… So you're jealous?" Angus said while smirking.
"The Vaike doesn't get jealous!"
"Isn't Miriel rather pretty?" Angus teased.
"Heck yeah, if you looked above her smarts an' stuff. She's got a rockin' chest!" Vaike said a bit quietly, making sure none of the others heard him.
"So you don't like the fact that Aiden is getting close to her?"
"Teach ain't likin' that this priest is gettin' her all interested in him."
"Sounds like something a jealous person would say."
Vaike lost his temper at that.
"You wanna go at it?" Vaike taunted while drawing his axe. "The Vaike is ready to whip ya into nothin' but cream skirty!"
"Bring it!" Angus taunted back while drawing his sword. "I'll make you take back that skirt comment!"
The commotion briefly catches the attention of Lissa and Maribelle, who were also watching the spectacle between Miriel and Aiden. Maribelle sighed while massaging her forehead.
"That buffoon will never learn to win over Miriel if he's just going to keep using brute force."
"Cut him some slack Maribelle, we're not all born prim and proper."
"Except for the priest, Aiden." Maribelle added. "His mannerism and speech clearly set an example for all nobles out there."
"*sigh* I know right…" Lissa said while resting her head on her hands.
"Don't tell me that you find Aiden attractive!"
"He's just so… dreamy. His hazel eyes give one of the most intense stares I have ever seen. He's nice, polite and caring. He is also patient and very cool-minded."
"Like your sister." Maribelle added.
Lissa seemed shocked to hear this but then nodded in agreement. She wore a sad smile as she began to ramble.
"Yeah… He's like a guy version of Emmeryn. I guess my admiration for Emm is showing again…"
"Oh dear Lissa. There's no need for you to change yourself. You are perfect just the way you are!"
Lissa then returns to her cheery self and says.
"Heehee! Thanks Maribelle!"
Lissa remembers her other interest and then takes a moment to look at Lon'qu, who was already approaching Khalid. Khalid simply chose to stick around to see the Ylissean military in action. He was allowed to stay, under Mikah's recommendation. He will be working with these people soon, so might as well get a bit closer to them. Lon'qu then approaches Khalid, who was leaning on a nearby pillar.
"I've heard of you, Khalid al-Mulawwith."
"From where?"
"Basilio had talked about a group of mercenaries stopping by West Ferox, how they easily wiped the floor with his greatest champions. He spoke very highly of your speed and skill with your scimitars."
"He must know what he's talking about if you're mentioning him." Khalid answered with a smirk.
"That does not matter, duel me now."
Khalid was considering to duel with him. He looks out the window to see that it was already dark. He realized that he had forgotten to pray his evening prayer. If he went to pray now, then he wouldn't miss his chance.
"No." Khalid answered flatly.
"Too cowardly?" Lon'qu asked, trying to taunt the Muslim.
"No, I have to pray Salat al-'isha." Khalid answered dismissively. "Our duel can wait after I pray."
Khalid walks away from Lon'qu, but nor before giving Aiden a glare, showing his distrust towards the Catholic practitioner. Lon'qu never felt so insulted that this man would rather indulge in his religion than face him in battle.
"Hmph, so be it."
Lon'qu walks away, dissatisfied with his attempt to get a spar. As he got caught in his dissatisfaction, he accidentally bumps into someone.
"Hey, watch where you're—"
Lon'qu sees to his horror that it is Mikah whom he bumps into. Mikah smirks and says.
"Don't have a sparring partner Lon'qu?"
"I-I can manage." Lon'qu shakily replied, his gynophobia kicking in.
"Well okay then." Mikah said before swiping a rapier at Lon'qu.
"What are you—" Lon'qu said before ducking.
"Still as fast as ever Lon'qu!" Mikah teased.
Lon'qu drew his Killing Edge and slashes at Mikah. Mikah parries the blow and does a few more swipes. Lon'qu barely dodges them and kicks her back before trying a thrust at her bottom. Mikah dodges his thrust and points the blade to his neck.
"Heeheehee, looks like I still reign supreme in our duel!"
"Mark my words Mikah, I-I will be conquering my fear of women." Lon'qu cursed while sheathing his blade. "And I will win in a fair fight!"
Lon'qu walked away, wearing a scowl from his loss.
Mikah triumphantly walks away and sits down somewhere else.
Angus was taking a breather on the other side, his little duel with Vaike had left him winded. Aiden had finished his conversation and sat next to Angus.
"What happened to you?" Aiden asked.
"I had a disagreement with someone." Angus replied while panting.
"And you drew your sword and threatened him?" Aiden deadpanned.
"Surprisingly no, that guy Vaike was the first to draw his weapon."
"Well it's nice to know that you have someone who thinks like you." Aiden replied rather smugly.
Angus gave Aiden a glare, which Aiden promptly ignored. Aiden then sees Mikah exit the training grounds and nudges Angus with his elbow.
"You might want to apologize to the lass. You did knock out her beloved."
"How was I supposed to know that he was from the past?" Angus complained.
"Well, it was not THAT obvious. But you didn't have to run at him like an idiot."
"But what she did was rather uncouth of her." Maribelle said, joining in, coming from a recent conversation with Lissa. "I expected more from a woman of her looks."
"She is just a mere saleswoman, so I wouldn't blame her for such a rash attack."
"The lass has earned my respect with that blow. My jaw still feels the sting of her fist." Angus added.
Maribelle couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"Are you sure that you are a noble?" Maribelle asked with a mix of shock and disgust. "Since when did nobility promote such barbaric actions?"
"Which is why I left in the FIRST place." Angus pointed out. "Being a noble is like wrapping your neck in a silk cloth. It may feel comfortable but you're essentially choking yourself."
"How dare you speak of nobility like that!" Maribelle expressed in rage. "Commoners would do anything to be in your place!"
"Bah! They know nothing of which they speak!" Angus dismissively said. "Where I come from, nobility endured the slander and prejudice of higher nobles. We had to kiss asses just to stay where we were!"
"Those are merely the repercussions of being a noble!" Maribelle pointed out. "I seriously doubt that you're a noble with your skirt and your unkempt, long hair!"
"It's a KILT! A proud clothing of Scottish nobles!" Angus shouted back. "You know nothing of the Scots and how no self-respecting proud Scottish would subject himself to such humiliation! Especially when your "lords" call your mother a wench and take away what's rightfully yours."
Maribelle had to stay silent at that. She knew her father had been subject to those kinds of conspiracies, but Angus simply had enough of the humiliation and broke his bonds. Angus sighed and said.
"I have to go."
Maribelle seemed pretty dejected to leave that conversation on such a low note. Aiden puts a hand on her shoulder.
"Don't worry, Angus has been through a lot. He'll explain himself soon enough." Aiden said while smiling reassuringly as they walked away from Maribelle. "Just give him some time."
Marcus stands up, the meeting was over. Chrom and the Shepherds would visit the Feroxi to bring aid for Ylisse. Marcus and Hagen would stay in the capital and oversee preparations for defense. Chrom had slight objections to leaving Emmeryn alone, but he had to trust Marcus and Hagen to that task. Marcus exits the room and tries to look for Mikah. He stops a servant and says.
"Have you seen an auburn-haired woman walking around?"
"Well, there was a drunk-looking woman shambling around the stables." the servant replied.
"Oh God, don't tell me…"
Marcus immediately runs to the stables and shouts.
"Mikah! Mikah! Where are you?"
Marcus sees Mikah come out from hiding, the blush on her face indicating her drunken state as she struggled to even walk properly. Marcus could curse fate, but then he would be cursing it too many times."
"No. NO. NO!" Marcus cursed. "How could you get drunk again, Mikah?!"
"I'm not *hic* drunk!" Mikah screamed while raising a bottle. "I'm just a little *hic* tired…"
Marcus immediately catches her as she falls into his arms.
"Have much mead did you drink?"
"Mead? Ha! *hic*" Mikah scoffed. "For your love *hic* I would never *hic* do something like that!"
"Let's get you to bed." Marcus said while sighing exasperatedly.
Marcus carried her bridal-style as she did not even resist him.
"My *hic* name is Marie Charlotte Guines!" Mikah declared. "And I would like *hic* to announce my intention of marrying Marcus *hic* of Canterbury.
"Come on Mikah, you can't be that drunk!" Marcus chided while climbing the stairs.
"I am *hic* very serious…" Mikah added before stroking his face. "I am in *hic* love with you Marcus."
Marcus could have sworn that Mikah sounded serious there, but dismissed it through Mikah's constant hiccups.
"Marcus *hic* why can't you stay?" Mikah asked while stroking his face.
"I thought you knew." Marcus replied.
"*hic* But I need you here with me…" Mikah said while affectionately nuzzling Marcus.
Marcus was too bashful to say anything. If Sir Julian could see him now, he would laugh endlessly.
Chrom stood at the castle courtyard, staring at the full moon in sorrow. There were so many things in his mind that he couldn't think properly. Chrom sighed as Robin came to him.
"Chrom? What are you doing out so late?"
"Oh, hi, Robin. Just... dueling with some unpleasant thoughts…" Chrom dejectedly replied. "Tomorrow we march to Regna Ferox to request additional soldiers. But there's something you should know first…"
Robin listened closely to what Chrom had to say.
"Not everything Gangrel said was a lie. The last exalt, my father, waged war on Plegia for many years. The violence... It was a brutal campaign, ending only with his death 15 years ago. Plegia rightfully remembers their suffering, but his war was no kinder to his own people. As the fighting dragged on, out army became more and more diminished. Farmers who could barely wield a pitchfork were conscripted and sent to their deaths. Soon there was no food at all, and the kingdom began to collapse. I was young, but I remember those dark times. ...I know how they affected Emmeryn."
"That sort of experience can change anyone…"
"But your sister stayed strong." a gruff voice said in the background.
Chrom and Robin turn to see Hagen come in. Chrom could only nod.
"While our people mocked and vilified her, she reached out and healed them. She brought soldiers home to their families. She ended the war. And when Ylisse's spirit was mended and the people "forgave" her?"
"You speak as if you question the forgiveness part." Robin added.
"He does." Hagen pointed out. "There was not really anything to "forgive" in the first place. The people merely placed the sins of her father upon her shoulders."
"That's… actually correct Hagen. How did you come to learn something like that?"
"My people were only remembered as barbarians, pagans who raided the holy sites for money and chaos." Hagen grimly stated. "Even after our alliances, people still unfairly associated us with our barbarian ancestors. I had long believed that the sins of your forefathers do not belong to you. Your sister will always be her own person and not her father."
Hagen gave Chrom a pat on the back.
"I know right? How could she be anything like father? She represents the best part of the halidom—the part most worth protecting. She IS peace." Chrom clarified before showing a grimace.
"But some men would take advantage of that. Men like King Gangrel. The day he understands peace will be the day death gives it to him."
"Aye, that man will never know the suffering he has caused." Hagen added. "That man has to die."
"So perhaps I must be death's agent." Chrom thought out loud. "Emmeryn would never order him killed, nor would I wish her to."
"Chrom, your sister is strong. She has led a nation of weak-hearted men into peace. She has injured insults from both sides and still come out on top. She is better than any king of the past." Hagen added in. "But war is coming, and your sister may not be prepared for when Plegia strikes."
"Thank you Hagen, but I really wish we acted earlier." Chrom cursed. "Think of the lives we could have saved."
"Chrom, I know it's hard for you and Lissa." Robin said. "To bear the burdens and sufferings of your people as a whole. But now, we must face the present situation and defend whatever we have left."
"You're right." Chrom said. "We must work to save Ylisse from Plegia."
"And as your tactician, I will make sure that it doesn't come down to any of that." Robin declared.
"Hopefully it doesn't involve any of your crazy Roman plans that came from those weird books." Chrom joked, punching Robin's shoulder.
"Hey! Those books from Marcus were good, okay?" Robin rebuked while rubbing his shoulder. "They were legitimate but questionable."
Chrom then turns to Hagen.
"Are you sure that you will be okay in Ylisstol?"
"My men and I have faced worse, Prince Chrom." Hagen said confidently. "We will ensure our place in Valhalla and Heaven."
"Well said, Chief Hagen." an unknown voice called.
The trio turned to see a blue-haired woman. The same blue-haired woman from the Feroxi tournament. While her hair was already flowing, she wore a mask to conceal her eyes for no specified reason
"You again… How did you get here?"
"The cleft in the castle wall, behind the maple grove."
"How did you—" Chrom said before stuttering. "Ugh…"
"Anything special about that place Chrom?" Robin asked.
"Yes. I bashed in part of the wall while training the Shepherds. It's only a small hole, and I'd thought it well concealed, but…"
"Hahahaha!" Hagen said with thunderous laughter. "Training does often end with something breaking!"
Robin could tell that Marth was trying to conceal a smile at Hagen's loud and bellowing laugh.
"Your secret's safe with me, I only came to warn you."
"Warn us?" Chrom asked with much confusion. "About what?"
Marcus finally reaches the infirmary and tries to set Mikah on her bed, but her grip is too strong and Marcus struggles to get her off him.
"Can't *hic* we just keep it like *hic* this for a few minutes?" Mikah pleaded.
"Come on Mikah." Marcus said softly. "You need to rest."
"*hic* Fine…" Mikah said dejectedly as Marcus set her down.
Marcus puts Mikah down on the infirmary bed carefully. But as soon as Mikah lies on the bed, she pulls Marcus closer to her body, with Marcus nearly falling over her, if it weren't for his hands stopping him. Mikah flushed even harder as she wrapped her arms around Marcus. While Marcus tried his best not to show emotion, it was embarrassing to look at Mikah from this angle.
"Come closer…"
Marcus immediately escapes her grasp and takes a breather. His face grew red at Mikah's even more suggestive advances. Oh how the Lord tested his integrity.
"I can't tie her again… People will misinterpret my intentions…"
"Come on Marcus~" Mikah said while using her finger in a coercing manner.
Marcus sighs and places his hand on Mikah's neck and applies a bit of pressure.
"I'm sorry Mikah, this for your sake and mine."
Mikah loses consciousness and immediately goes to sleep.
"Good thing I learned of pressure points from the library."
Marcus sits down and watches her. This was the second time that Mikah had completely gotten drunk and fawned over him.
"Jesus, how many bottles did you drink?" Marcus muttered while composing himself from the potentially scandalous experience. While they have grown close as friends, Marcus couldn't believe that she would be in love with him. She had been here for two years, she surely must have found someone by then. They had only been friends for a few weeks at best. It was quick and easy for Marcus to dismiss Mikah's attraction as a thing that drunken people always do.
Marcus sees the bottle that Mikah had been drinking. He sees a small, blue flask, with tall and narrow bottleneck. He notices a note at the back and decides to read it.
TRUTH SERUM, gather the courage to say whatever you need to say! This patented blend of fast-acting herbs relieves the body and mind of tension, allowing users to speak their minds more frankly than they ever thought possible!
Do not take in overdose, as effects may include drowsiness and severe honesty. We're not joking.
"Wait, did she really drink this potion?" Marcus wondered. "But that would mean that what she said was—"
Marcus is interrupted by a sound of an explosion as he felt the ground rumble.
"What the hell was that!?"
Chrom and his companions rush to Emmeryn's bedchambers, to see Emmeryn relatively unharmed but startled by the explosion. Chrom saw the other Shepherds rush in. Lon'qu, Frederick and Lissa were already at one entrance. Vaike, Miriel, Donnel, Stahl, Maribelle and Sumia were at the other side. While Khalid and Aiden were at the front door, with Angus and Rune holding back the door from breaking. Chrom shouted as he ran to embrace the Exalt.
"Emm!"
"Chrom! Take Lissa and flee while you still have time!"
"No! We're not leaving you!" Chrom said indignantly. "Just stay where it's safe!"
Chrom immediately goes outside to see the assassins begin to climb the stairs to their location. Aiden and Khalid got into stance, coolly showing their readiness to face the onslaught. Khalid was already Rune and Angus on the other hand, were pumped up to fight. They shouted with high morale as they anticipated their enemies.
"For honor!" Angus shouted while banging his sword.
"Ready!" Rune yelled while clanging his two axes together.
The Shepherds felt inspired by their enthusiasm as they got into stance and ready. Robin looks over to the bottom and sees a dark skinned man in dark robes, he assumes him to be the leader as he hears the man bark orders.
"The assassins should disperse if we defeat their leader."
"Easier said than done." Chrom said grimly while surveying the area. "This man has the whole castle running with assassins. His target is the Fire Emblem and Emmeryn, both in this very room, we cannot let them win."
"Then let us get to it then!" Hagen roared as he smacked down his axe with a huge clang.
Chrom looks down to see the enemy commander looking at him. Chrom could tell from the look on his face that he was not happy to see him alive.
Marcus immediately suits up in his armor, hurriedly tightening the straps. He gets his weapon and attempts to rush out the door, but he sees two brigands already.
"Oh, what do we got 'ere?"
Marcus draws his sword and shield, his helmet hiding his emotion as he backed up to Mikah's bed.
"So, a lone knight eh? What's someone like you doin' in a place like this?"
The two brigands then spot Mikah. One of them licked his lips as he admired the unconscious woman's body.
"Is tha' yer girl? How about we cut ya a deal?" he said with a very despicable tone. "Give us the pretty lass, and we'll let ya go scot-free."
Marcus got into battle stance and banged his sword against his shield.
"I won't let you lay a single hand on her."
The brigands then wore a monstrous grin as they stepped forward to fight Marcus. Marcus swipes at one brigand before blocking another strike from another brigand. Marcus then tries to strike the brigand, but he dodges in time as he backs up. But Marcus presses his attack, he moves forward and bashes his shield at the brigand before switching his attention to the other brigand. He slices the bandit's neck and then ducks and slices the other bandit's leg clean off. The bandit in shock, he desperately tries to crawl out of the infirmary as Marcus slowly approached him. Before the man could scream, Marcus plunges a sword into his neck, silencing the brigand once and for all. Marcus looked up to see more assassins come his way through a blasted hole in the wall.
"Kill that knight!"
Marcus got into defensive stance and prepared to guard the infirmary with his life.
Rune furiously wrestled with an axeman before Angus came in to save him. Aiden and Robin where bringing down pressure on the incoming assassins. Lon'qu and Frederick were facing some spearmen coming from the flanks. Chrom fought off some more swordsmen coming in their way as the rest of the Shepherds. Marth on the other hand, stuck close to the Exalt, carefully watching for any threat.
"Shepherds!" Robin yelled. "Form a protective wall around the openings! We can't let any more of them pour in!"
The Shepherds immediately obeyed and kept a steady line to push back the Plegians. Hagen was seen finishing off any stragglers as his bulking size made the assassins keep their distance. The first wave was over and the Shepherds were bracing themselves for the next one. They had already killed most of the thieves and mages lurking about, and were expecting more.
"Wait! There's another assassin over there!" Lissa pointed as they saw an orange-haired man approach them.
"Wait! I'm not your—" the orange haired man said before being tackled to the ground by a large rabbit-like creature. He breathed out, while he felt the air knocked out of him. "Enemy…"
The creature then growled at the man.
"Silence man-spawn." the rabbit said coldly.
Chrom tried to draw Falchion again but Marth promptly stopped him.
"Hold! Panne and Gaius are not your enemies!"
The rabbit and the orange-haired man looked up in confusion.
"How did you know my name man-spawn?" the rabbit said while transforming into a human with bunny ears.
"Yeah, Whiskers is right. How do you know us?"
Marth briefly stayed silent.
"I knew that you both would come tonight."
"Quite the prophet, aren't you?" Chrom asked before sighing. "Good enough, Shepherds we will leave these two characters be!"
"Is that wise, milord?" Frederick questioned.
"Marth has earned our trust. She enjoys her secrets, I know. ...Like her gender, for one. But she's also saved our lives. Twice. And that's enough for me."
"Thank you Chrom."
Chrom gives Marth a nod and then goes ahead to pull up Gaius.
"Thanks blue-blood. Now I kinda feel bad for running with these assassins now." Gaius said before clarifying. "I am just trying to make a living. I'm a thief you know. They said they were busting open a vault, nobody said anything about murder.
"Then perhaps you'd be willing to prove your good intentions?" Chrom asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Beg pardon?
"We need all the help we can get to save the exalt's life. You appear capable, and we could use any information you have about our foes."
"Oh, right—those good intentions. Fine then, I'll prove my sincerity... if you sweeten the deal."
"Really? After trying to prove your good intentions you just—" Chrom said before accidentally knocking a satchel off his side while trying to prove a point.
"Hey, you dropped a satchel there Blue. What's in it?"
"Candies for Lissa."
Gaius' eyes immediately sparkled.
"It's a deal!" Gaius said enthusiastically.
"You'd risk your life for candies?" Chrom asked while tilting his head in confusion.
"Well I did say sweeten the deal didn't I? I'll take gold of course, unless you have more of these." Gaius then grabbed Chrom by the collar. "DO YOU!?"
"Uh, I'll ask Lissa. For now, you stand next to Hagen." Chrom said while dusting himself.
"Who's that?"
"The really tall one." Chrom said flatly.
Gaius approached the scary, large man and weakly said.
"Uhhh… I hope you don't break me in half there Muscles… " Gaius said rather fearfully, which Hagen chose to ignore.
Chrom approached Panne, but Panne snarled at him.
"I will not allow man-spawn like you to command me!" Panne said indignantly.
"I will not command you, I just wish to know your intentions." Chrom said rather nicely.
"I am merely repaying a debt to the Exalt."
"So be it, thank you for your assistance." Chrom thanked.
Before Chrom could rejoin the lines, Panne stopped him.
"Wait, before you go. I also have something alarming to tell you."
"I'm listening." Chrom said while turning around.
Marcus fought off more assassins. One man tries to throw a knife at him. Marcus' armor protects him from the light attacks while faced off with a myrmidon. A mage tries to throw a spell at him but he instead swats it aside, redirecting the fireball to the myrmidon. The myrmidon gets stunned by the sudden spell. Using the short window of time, Marcus rushes in to bash his shield at the myrmidon's face, and then proceeds to stab the swordsman's stomach, finally ending him. Marcus taunts the other two warriors facing him as he began to tire quickly. He needed breathing space and the heat of the battle was already getting to him.
"Marcus is alone!?" Chrom asked in shock. "Why is he in the infirmary!?"
"I do know that there is one more person in the infirmary, a female man-spawn."
Khalid overheard this and suddenly wondered where Mikah was. He realized that Mikah was also in the infirmary and if Marcus were to fail, Mikah could get captured or worse. Khalid rushes off to the infirmary with Marth in tow.
"Why are you following me?" Khalid asked while they ran.
"Same reason you are." Marth replied. "To save someone important to us."
Khalid and Marth make haste to the infirmary to see Marcus desperately fighting for his life as he stood his ground in front of the infirmary. Marth quickly runs in to assist Marcus while Khalid runs into the infirmary. He grabs Mikah and immediately runs back to Chrom and the others.
"At least we do not have to worry about Mikah…" Marcus breathed with a sigh as he got ready to follow Khalid and Marth. But he freezes in his tracks, something was wrong, he could feel something was wrong. He looks behind him to see Risen rise from the ground. He could hear the leader shout.
"Some of these actors don't belong on stage! We lost too many men! I didn't want to waste this on a mere assassination, but it's completely necessary! Revenants! Rise from your graves!"
Marcus bears witness to the Scarecrow Risen that he had fought before. Numerous Risen rose from the ground and began shambling to Marcus' direction. Marcus fails to notice that one Revenant rose up behind him.
"Marcus! Look out!" Marth screamed while running.
Marcus blocks the strike with his shield, leaving an ear-piercing scratch. Marcus counterattacks and slices the Revenant's leg clean off. But he then sees a mage charging up an attack. He tries to block, but is too late. The mage summons a Elthunder spell that knocks Marcus even further back down the stairs, leaving him to fend for himself against the numerous Risen. Marth looked back and forth, unsure of where to go. Marth hesitantly joins Marcus as Marcus desperately fought for his life.
Robin notices the assassins slowly decreasing in number. He also sees Khalid return with an unconscious Mikah in his arms. He bumps Chrom and says.
"Chrom! This is our chance! We can push back the assassins!"
"You heard Robin! Let's push forward!"
Robin then points to Frederick.
"Frederick, lead Stahl and Sully through the flanks, we need someone to watch our backs and to deal any damage to the backs of the enemy lines!"
Robin then looks at Sumia and the missile group.
"Aiden and Miriel, since you're our only ranged units for now, keep your distance and do your job. Sumia and I will hang back and provide any support should you get close to any melee fighters."
"Chrom, Vaike, Panne and Hagen will lead the charge on one staircase. Khalid, Rune, Gaius and Donnel will lead the charge on the other staircase."
"Lissa! You and Maribelle stay close to Emmeryn's room, take care of Mikah. I'll have some men protect you."
Robin then examines the battlefield for any suitable fighters. But he then feels a hand on his shoulder, he turns to see Lon'qu.
"But what about me?" Lon'qu asked. "Shouldn't I be fighting also?"
Robin smirked at this and saw this as a perfect opportunity for his little… experiment. He's seen the way Lissa's been looking at him.
"Actually, you'll be hanging back to protect Lissa and the other healers. We need our best warriors at the back to protect any vulnerable units."
"Fine. Just put me away from any woman."
"I think that's too late for now…" Robin said while smirking. He turns to Lissa and shouts. "Hey Lissa!"
Lissa, who was tending to Mikah's body perked up at this.
"You're getting Lon'qu!" Robin said with a wink.
Lissa briefly blushed and before Lon'qu could protest, Robin goes his own way. But he is also stopped by Angus.
"Don't forget about me you snowy-haired lad! Where will I stay?"
"You'll be with Maribelle for now. The frontlines are already packed as it is with the confined space of this castle."
Angus dejectedly goes to Maribelle's area and gets into stance, watching for any approaching enemies. Lon'qu stuck close to Lissa, with Lissa looking embarrassed and flustered for some reason.
Robin felt confident in the safety of the Exalt and the other vulnerable members. He hangs back while giving Chrom the signal to charge. Chrom then raises his sword, shouting.
"Everyone! CHARGE!"
The frontlines began to do their work, with Chrom and his companions easily downing the unaware warriors. Hagen smashes and knocks away any who dare get in his way. Vaike was hooting in excitement while hacking away at his enemies. One Revenant tries and slash at Vaike's exposed chest, but Vaike ducked and said.
"Not this time ugly!"
He proceeds to chops the Risen as they pushed forward. Panne went ahead and kicked away any Risen that got close. Her advanced senses helped her detect any sneak attack made by the Plegians.
The other line was also doing fine. Rune was very masterful with his hatchets as he threw one at a Risen Mage and then runs while picking it along the way, just to plunge it into a Revenant's head. Donnel was doing well for his first time, piercing one Risen thief before kicking back another Risen and finishing it off.
The mages were doing their work, striking down on approaching forces. One archer nearly shoots Miriel, causing her to fall over. Aiden then shouts.
"LUX!"
The light strikes down the archer, Robin looks in awe at Aiden as he thought.
"How does a mere priest hold that much power?"
Aiden walks over to pull Miriel up, who seemed amazed by the display
"How do you do that?" Miriel asked in awe. "Your skills with spells clearly trumps mine."
Aiden smiled and said.
"The demands of being a Catholic priest are plenty. Now let's get back to fighting shall we?"
Aiden gives a nod at Robin as they continued their assault. Khalid was skillful also, using his scimitars equally for both offense and defense. His quick maneuvering helped him fight the clawed Risen with ease.
Robin notices the number of Risen preventing them from reaching the leader. Not even Frederick and the other cavalry could get past it. He sees Marcus and Marth fight back to back as they get surrounded from all angles.
"I hope we reach them in time."
Marcus blocks a sword strike and bashes the swordsman with his shield, he then proceeds to stab his opponent. He notices the mage charging an attack on Marth. He rushes to shield her as he barely blocked on time. He taunts at the mage to strike him again, the mage sends another Elthunder strike at him. Marcus blocks with his sword and absorbs the lightning. He then plunges the ground with the lightning sword, causing an area of electricity that stunned his foes. He and Marth take advantage of this and quickly finish all the stunned Risen.
But Marcus then felt something ram him against the wall.
"Marcus!" Marth screamed, before blocking an attack from an armored man. She was kept busy while Marcus was left to face his adversary.
In his hazy vision, he could see his adversary before him as he slowly got up. It was a heavily armored Risen, the first he had ever seen. Its cauldrons and upper body were ridiculously large. The man wielded a spear and shield, seemingly taunting Marcus to get up. Marcus gets up slowly and assesses the situation, he was outmatched, his opponent had better protection and far better reach. He gets into stance as he prepared for the armored man to charge.
The armored man tries a thrust but Marcus parries the strike, intending to bash his enemy. The armored man was stunned but then kicks Marcus, causing him to stagger. Marcus didn't have time to recover as the man proceeds to ram his against the wall and knee his face. Marcus could only hear ringing as the enemy kept pummeling his helmet. But Marcus gains enough consciousness to push back the man. He then drops his shield, putting it on his back and holding his sword with two hands. He then proceeds to half-sword against the armored man. The armored man tries another thrust but Marcus stops it and cuts the lance with his sword. He then proceeds to kick the stunned Risen, leaving his opponent vulnerable. Marcus then rams the Risen, forcefully making him remove his large ornament piece, leaving the Risen's head exposed. Marcus then repeatedly hits the head of his opponent with a mordhau strike, constantly smashing his sword's guard on the Risen's helmet. But before Marcus could finish him, the Risen then grabs Marcus' head and throw him off. The Risen then pins Marcus down, with Marcus helpless to his next move.
The armored man removes Marcus' helmet and repeatedly punches his face, with Marcus beginning to bleed. Marcus couldn't react as he felt crushing blows take away his vision.
Before the Risen could do another strike however, Marcus saw a sword go through its neck, leaving a thick, black liquid that dripped on Marcus. Marcus realized that Marth had saved him from the Risen. Marth pushes the body aside and pulls up Marcus with him saying.
"Thank you…"
"Do not worry about it, we still have a fight ahead of us." Marth said while looking at the opening.
Marcus looked up to see that more reinforcements have arrived, a group of axemen have come in together with some horsemen. Marcus saw behind him that the Shepherds were still being kept busy. He just readied his bastard sword, Alexander, as he held it with two hands, tired of his shield.
Robin slashes another Risen with his bronze sword, he then uses his Elthunder tome to strike down a Risen myrmidon keeping Chrom busy. Chrom then switches his attention to a Revenant who nearly slashed Vaike. Chrom saves him by stabbing the Risen's back and kicking away the body.
"That's a point for me." Chrom said with a smirk.
"Don't get cocky!" Vaike replied with a grin.
Chrom then turns and sees Hagen skillfully take on the Risen. Hagen hits one Risen with the blunt end of his axe, before spinning to hit the other one with the hammer. He then raises his giant axe and then plunges it into his vulnerable but still alive opponent. Hagen then rams another Risen against a wall, kneeing him in the face and then snapping his neck. Hagen then headbutts another Risen and chops his neck. Chrom shuddered at the thought of facing Hagen in serious combat, seeing how brutal the Dane was in combat. Panne followed close behind, fighting nearly as ferocious as Hagen. She grows jealous at Hagen's combat skills.
"I will not allow man-spawn like you to overtake me in combat!"
"Then keep up rabbit!"
Chrom then looks to see the Khalid also doing very well, keeping up with the nimble thieves as they fought in a battle of speed and swiftness. Khalid ducks under one Risen and stabs him before spinning to slice another. Donnel and Rune were doing well. Donnel gets overwhelmed by a Risen axeman but a thrown axe downs the undead man. Donnel then runs and stabs the Risen about to sneak up on Rune from behind. Khalid nearly gets stabbed by a thief, but Gaius comes out of nowhere and stabs the thief. He smirks and says
"Your welcome, Sneaks!"
"Sneaks?" Khalid questioned.
"Y'know, since you're an assassin… You're all sly and sneaky."
"How did you know that!?"
"I know the word on the street, about some foreigner silencing both Plegian and Ylissean targets for a sum."
"Well you better keep silent about that." Khalid growled. "I'm not choosy with my targets."
"Whoah, it's all good Sneaks." Gaius conceded while raising both hands. "I won't tell a soul."
"Come on, we must do Allah's work." Khalid said while charging at more Risen.
"What the heck is an allah?" Gaius wondered while following Khalid.
Marcus ducks under an axe swing and stabs his opponent's gut. He then kicks the body away and blocks another swipe from an axeman and slit the neck of his other opponent. Marth stabs one axeman and then quickly turns to slice the stomach of another approaching enemy. The horsemen proceed to charge as Marcus drew his shield for protection. Marth was quick enough to dodge the attack but Marcus took the collision head-on, knocking him back even further. Marcus struggled to get up, he then remembers one of Sir Julian's lectures.
Marcus and Sir Julian stood outside with a large horse close to them. Sir Julian points to an area below the neck of the horse.
"Remember Marcus, if you encounter any cavalry, you must hit this exposed area. Cutting this will kill the horse quickly and render its rider useless."
"But sire, won't the horses be armored?"
"These Arabic infidels lack any proper protection for their horses, Marcus. Use that to your advantage."
Marcus exits his thought as he examined the horseman. His prayers were answered as he saw no protection on the horse's neck area. Marcus bangs his sword on his shield, taunting the horseman to charge at him. The horseman sets down his spear for another charge. Marcus blocks the spear with his shield and tries a swipe at the horse's jugular. Marcus briefly staggers but returns to stance as he saw the horseman circle him.
Marth was using her acrobatics to avoid the horseman, she successfully jumps away from another charge before jumping at the vulnerable horseman and stabbing him. She then wipes her sweat as she saw Marcus fight his opponent.
Marcus tries again, blocking the spear with his shield and then trying to slice the horse's jugular. The blood rained on Marcus, leaving his armor drenched in blood. The horseman couldn't even react as Marcus immediately plunged his sword into him. Marth briefly stared at Marcus before averting her gaze. Both notice that two more horsemen enter, with some mages, more axemen and the leader himself.
Chrom and the party had finally broken through, Chrom and his companions hurry to Marcus' position, where he was fighting off many warriors together with Marth. Chrom immediately stabs one soldier, while Hagen comes and takes on the horsemen, using his long ranged weapon to keep them at a distance. Rune and the others follow close behind as Chrom and the reinforcements begin to take care of the enemies.
Chrom was dueling with a Risen Knight, he slashes down but his opponent parries. He tries a thrust but the Risen blocks the attack and kicks Chrom back. Marcus rushes in, with his two hands in his sword blade, he strikes the knight with a mordhau strike, causing the knight to stagger. Chrom watched in awe at Marcus' creative use of the sword.
But Chrom failed to even notice the fact that a Plegian mage was aiming for him. Marth notices this and says.
"CHROM! WATCH OUT!"
Marth immediately gets in the way and blocks the spell, before stabbing the mage. But they then see the leader charge an attack at Chrom.
"If I can't kill the Exalt… Then I'll just take the princeling instead!"
Chrom couldn't dodge as the dark flame nearly engulfed him. But much to everyone's shock, Robin counters the attack with a Thoron spell.
"Not so fast! I won't let you hurt anyone!"
"Emmeryn was supposed to be an easy target! Submit to me and slaughter these bastards, then perhaps I may reward you with the truth!"
"A man like you has nothing for me!" Robin defiantly declared, before increasing his attack. "As long as you live, my allies will forever be in danger!"
The thunder quickly overwhelms the leader, slowly engulfing the leader as he screamed.
"How could you have known… The plan…"
He drops dead as the Shepherds finally had a breather. They looked around to see the corpses of their many enemies. Chrom could see Emmeryn rush out. He runs to her and embraces her.
"Thank the gods you're safe!"
"It is you I have to thank Chrom…" Emmeryn said while hugging Chrom.
"Milady! Milord!" a feminine voice called out.
Chrom saw Phila run up to them and kneel with her hand on her chest.
"I beg your forgiveness, milord! I failed in my duty—they should never have made it into the castle in the first place."
"Peace, Phila. Only Marth could have…" he paused before looking around.
"Marth?" Emmeryn questioned.
"Er, yes. I would speak more with…" he paused again before turning to Robin. "Um… Robin, where's Marth?
Robin glances around in confusion.
"Hmm... An excellent question. She was here a moment ago…"
"If yer lookin' for the blue-haired lass, she hoofed outta here not too long ago." Angus added in.
"Not again!" Chrom cursed while running off.
Marcus noticed this and also followed, ignoring Lissa's attempts to heal him.
"Marcus, wait! I haven't healed you yet!"
"That can wait!"
Marth slowly walked away from the castle. She turns back once, before going her way.
"Going somewhere? You know, you have a bad habit of leaving without saying goodbye."
Marth turns to see Chrom, clearly huffing from the run.
"I'm afraid I have a few bad habits."
"Well, don't leave without me saying my thanks." Chrom replied. "Is there some way I can repay you for saving both my sisters?"
"Hearing your offer is enough for me." Marth returned with a smile. "And besides, the future has been averted?"
"What future?"
"After the exalt's untimely assassination, the Fire Emblem would be stolen. This, in turn, would lead to a great war, and soon to the end of mankind itself. ...But I'm sure that sounds like madness to you."
"Strangely, it doesn't. Somehow, I feel that you are worthy of my trust. And someday, I hope to repay you."
"Perhaps one day you shall… But until then… I'll be off." Marth said while walking away.
Chrom stayed quiet before returning to the castle. Marth keeps walking until she reached the maple grove.
"You know, I haven't quite thanked you for saving my life."
Marth turns to see Marcus leaning on a nearby tree, holding his helmet and showing his face.
"Think nothing of it, I must be off."
"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Wait, I did not come here just to see you off. I want answers."
"I will not answer any of your questions."
"Then please just answer this, why did you decide to come back for me? Why didn't you just rejoin Chrom and the others?"
"…I had to keep you alive. Your impact on the future is just as great as that of Chrom and the Exalt. I had to ensure your safety."
"But what happens to me in the future?" Marcus asked. "Why are you so intent on saving the future."
"In the world I've lived in, you died in a brutal fight against a great army. I had to watch everyone I loved die one by one. All those whom I called allies slain on the battlefield."
"So did I. To increase morale, we had a saying among the soldiers." Marcus added with a smile. "We all die. Some live forever."
"If only it were so easy." Marth said while turning her back on Marcus.
As soon as Marth had gotten far enough from Marcus, tears began to stream down her face.
"Yes Marcus. I remember that quote of yours, but even now I still don't get it."
An older Marcus, and Lucina hid behind a pillar as Marcus pushed her to the portal saying.
"Go on without me!"
"No, Sir Marcus, you can't leave me and the others like this, we still need you!"
"I'm confident that you will succeed, you are Chrom's daughter!"
"But I am NOT Chrom!" Lucina harshly protested "I'm nowhere near as powerful as he is!"
Marcus then puts his hand on Lucina's cheek.
"If your father could see you here right now, he would be so proud of you."
"Marcus…"
"COME OUT MAGGOTS!" a thunderous voice commanded.
Marcus peeked out the pillar, before coming up with a plan.
"Okay Lucina, make a run for the portal, I will distract Grima."
"But Sir Marcus! You'll die!" Lucina cried while grabbing Marcus.
Marcus smirked at Lucina.
"We all die. Some live forever."
Marcus then runs out and draws his shield. H bangs it with his sword.
"Robin! I'm over here!"
The giant dragon switches its attention to him."
"YOU HAVE INTERFERED WITH MY PLANS FOR TOO LONG. BUT I WILL STILL GRANT YOU MERCY. JOIN MY LEGIONS OF RISEN AND I WILL GUARANTEE YOU MORE POWER THAN YOUR PATHETIC GOD!"
"As much as it is tempting, my heart still lies with humanity."
Lucina didn't know what to do, Marcus already had Grima distracted. There was no going back now. She makes a run for the portal with Grima immediately noticing her.
"SO, DISTRACTING ME TO SAVE THE EXALT'S WELP? PATHETIC. YOU COULDN'T EVEN SAVE YOUR OWN."
Grima spits a fire ball, but Marcus immediately deflects it.
"Not this time."
In his anger, Grima screams.
"FINE THEN, IF YOU WILL NOT JOIN ME, THEN DIE!"
Grima breathed a huge, purple flame that engulfed everything in its path. As Lucina ran for the portal, she looked back to see Marcus smiling at her. It wasn't a nervous smile or a happy smile. It was a smile of reassurance, telling her that everything was okay even though it was clearly not. Lucina could see him wave her goodbye, before he becomes swallowed by the flame.
Marth could remember those events like they were yesterday. She could remember the acceptance in Marcus' eyes before he was engulfed by the flame. That he knew that he was going to die. Marcus' smile only reminded her of that smile. She held tightly onto her Falchion as she thought.
"I promise, I will change the future Marcus. For my father."
There we go! Finally! Another chapter out! It took me quite a while to finish this one, but I'm already brainstorming for the next A Stray Ashigaru chapter. Here's a sample!
Corrin walked through the corridors, slightly shivering from the cold of the outside storm.
"Brr… It's getting cold, I wonder if the hot water's ready for a bath!"
Corrin passes by the garden, to only see a man sitting in the mud. He was shirtless and clearly not planning to move from his spot. Corrin sees to her shock that the man is Takayama.
"Takayama! What are you doing out there!? You'll catch a cold!"
Takayama kept his eyes closed but replied.
"Leave me be! I am training!"
"What kind of training makes you get sick!?" Corrin questioned in shock and worry. "I thought training was meant to make you stronger!"
"See, that's where our similarities end, Princess." Takayama said. "You find no strength in suffering and only topple before any trauma."
"But why would you do this to yourself!?"
"I find strength in suffering. People who suffer find the greatest strength. The ability to endure and bear pain. The ability to still walk or move after something so painful."
"But… what happens to those who couldn't bear the pain?" Corrin asked.
"They die."
Corrin looked out worriedly at Takayama, who still hadn't moved from his spot. Takayama noticed this and said.
"The fine line between you and me is that, you have lived under a roof, I haven't. You were protected, I wasn't. You have family, I don't."
Corrin stayed silent at this.
"See you in the arena." Takayama replied coldly. "Don't hold back."
Juliette immediately started walking around the castle, looking for a room. She then asks a servant.
"Where is Prince Ryoma's room?"
"Oh, it is over there." the servant replied.
Juliette walked over and stood outside the door.
"Okay… I just need to apologize…"
"My name is Rurik Daalgard and I am retainer to Sir Marek who is the Grandmaster of the Templar Order and the general of the Nascentian Legion."
"You didn't have to add the thing at the end..." Marek added with sweat dropping at the back of his head. "And you are not my retainer, you are my second-in-command. I do not have any retainers."
"Sir Rurik! What brings you here to Hoshido?" Mikoto asked.
"I came to deliver Sir Marek a message that is important to Hoshido as well."
"What is it?" Mikoto asked with much curiosity.
"The one that goes by the name of Corrin will be arriving at the border within a few days."
And that's it for the teasers/samples! I hope you enjoy and see you next chapter.
And I found a neat little trick! Look at this! 🌸