Well, we all had a fun time last chapter, didn't we?

For those of you curious as to what Robin and Cordelia are up to, we'll be seeing them today. Going to Cheve and meeting the Sage is going to take them through a warzone, after all. Besides that, Corrin will be meeting the Hoshidan siblings as well while Lon'qu and Olivia get their first look at him.

Hope you enjoy!

Hoshidan Hospitality

"Ugh…my head…"

Corrin opened his eyes blearily, a dull throb in his skull. Whatever had hit him must've been real upset if it gave this bad a lump.

"Look who's up." A woman's voice quipped. "Sorry about the goose egg, think I got a little frustrated trying to find you."

Corrin's vision cleared enough for him to make out a tanned form. "Are you… that Fire Tribe woman?"

The form stood and loomed over him. "That I am, name's Rinkah. The only reason you're not bound is because I owe you my life."

Corrin's vision cleared further, finally allowing him to make out his surroundings. "Yeah… I guess I should thank you for that. May I ask why you attacked me though, especially since it was my friend's power and my good will that saved you?"

Rinkah smirked. "Well, let's just say I recognized your name. Anyway, I'll be handing you over to the Hoshidan authorities, it's why I brought you to this particular village."

Corrin sighed and sat up. "Makes sense. Getting an enemy royal nets you goodwill and an execution. Especially after an unprovoked attack"

Rinkah's smirk became smug. "Well, maybe. Let's see what they have to say first, eh?"

"Gods," Corrin groaned. "They're already here, aren't they?"

Another familiar face entered the room. "That we are. It's good to see you again, Prince Corrin."

Corrin sighed and looked to the man, his green hair and ninja robes placing him as the other released prisoner. "You are…?"

The ninja bowed. "I am Kaze, milord. I have come to escort you to Shirasagi."

Corrin shook his head and stood, but stumbled. "Mind waiting a bit? I can't walk straight."

"As you wish, milord." Kaze agreed. "In the meantime, you can meet my friend, she is a retainer in Hoshido and will be accompanying us."

Corrin nodded and sat back down, letting the world settle into place. "Quick question, why call me 'milord'? I'm an enemy, aren't I?"

Kaze took a seat across from him. "All will be explained when we reach Shirasagi. Now then, Rinkah, would you mind getting Hana out of the cold? Heaven knows she's dying to get ahold of that hotpot of yours."

Rinkah snorted, but left the room. Now that Corrin wasn't focused on his captors, he noticed they were in an open room. Mats lined the floor and a couple windows revealed the mountains outside. The door was more of a wall which could slide back. "This is Hoshidan architecture? It's…roomy."

Kaze remained stoic. "It helps keep the rooms aerated and steady against earthquakes and storms. Trying to build solid stone structures like in Nohr doesn't work here."

Corrin frowned. "So, my readings were right. You suffer typhoons and earthquakes regularly, but why aerate in cold regions? Doesn't that make the room chill as well?"

"No, it doesn't." Another voice answered. "The walls are made of rice paper that keeps the chill out, but keeps the room from being stuffy. Have to say, you really sound like a Nohrian, not knowing that."

Corrin glanced to the entrance and felt himself stare. The speaker was a woman that looked about his age with white armor over pink and purple robes. She had a long sword sheathed at her side, a katana if Corrin's memory served, and stood with the certainty of a warrior.

What most drew his attention were her eyes and hair. Her eyes were light brown and sparkled from her pretty face while her hair ran down her back in waves of light chestnut.

The woman caught him staring. "Oh, sorry, my name's Hana. I'll be taking you back to Shirasagi with these guys. Have to say, you don't look like much, especially with the commotion you caused back home."

Corrin took offense to that, but Kaze frowned at Hana. "That's rude, Hana. You'd look no better after a whack to the head, especially from one of Rinkah's strength."

Hana shrugged. "Just saying what I see. If we can test him out, maybe I'll change my mind."

"Let's not think that far ahead." Rinkah laughed as she joined them. "Come on, let's get eating. I made sure to make this hotpot with the good stuff."

Corrin's stomach chose then to growl, which made the others either laugh or smile. Corrin kept himself stoic, well aware that he was likely only alive to be questioned.

Then he'd be killed.

I never did figure out what Elise got so upset for. Corrin thought as he was handed a warm bowl. I mean, she talked to Flora before we left, but what about? She called me dense, too…

He sighed and sipped at the bowl, a grunt of approval coming out unprovoked. "This is good."

"Glad it stacks up to the fancy stuff," Rinkah drawled. "In either case, we will be leaving after this. The sooner we're on the road, the less likely it is we have the High Prince himself come after us."

Kaze chuckled. "And with his brother not far behind. Tell me, Rinkah, has word reached this far that Prince Takumi is going to be a father?"

Rinkah choked on the bite she'd taken, Hana hammering on her back until Rinkah could breathe again. "Say what?! What poor bitch did he knock up?"

Hana glared at her. "Don't call Oboro a bitch! Besides, do you have any idea how freaking elated the palace was? If it wasn't for us having to pick up this guy, we'd be helping organize a feast!"

"And the prince was planning on proposing to Oboro anyway." Kaze continued at Rinkah's incredulous face. "Reina and Hinata told me that there was going to be an entire process to it, since Oboro's a commoner and all, but they got drunk at a weaver's festival. Moved up the timetable and I heard Takumi proposed with Queen Mikoto as witness while explaining that he'd planned to do so anyway. Awkward few days."

Rinkah scoffed. "I can imagine. What about you, Prince, got any fun tales of romance to share?"

Corrin froze as their gazes turned to him. "Uh…"

Kaze sighed. "Leave him be, Rinkah. It's hard enough wrapping one's head around his situation, let alone being asked to share scandalous happenings of the Nohrian royals. Let's finish up and be on our way."

He got unenthusiastic agreements as they fell silent until the end of the meal. Once they were done, Kaze helped Corrin to his feet. "Better now?"

Corrin nodded, though his voice retained its reluctance. "I am. Let's… just get this over with."

Kaze nodded and gestured to the wall. "Then we shall leave immediately. Hana, stay by Prince Corrin's side as we go. Rinkah, keep an eye on our rear. I'll scout ahead."

He blurred away and Rinkah sighed. "There he goes again. Never stops to smell the bonfire if you ask me, but whatever."

She guided them outside and pulled a large club of steel from beside the entrance. "This is my little friend, it's what gave you that lump."

Rinkah hefted it onto her shoulder like the metal was nothing. "Shall we?"

Corrin and Hana nodded, the party leaving the nearly deserted village for the road. They'd gone for barely thirty minutes before Corrin felt Hana poke his head. "What?"

Hana grinned. "You really do have a welt here. Didn't notice with all the hair, but that looks painful."

"Yes, it is." Corrin hissed as Hana poked it again. "Please stop poking it."

Hana kept her grin, this time looking to his feet. "Aren't you cold? Walking through the snow in bare feet is bound to make you lose them."

Corrin shook his head. "Never bothered me before, and this place is nowhere near as cold as where I grew up."

"What's got you all curious?" Rinkah asked. "You never played twenty questions with me when we first met."

Hana shrugged and hopped over a large rock in the road. "Well, I need to be able to tell Princess Sakura everything about this guy. She's super curious, so as her retainer, it's my job to find out what I can."

Corrin zipped around the same rock and started to speed his steps. "Oh, you want to know for your liege? Care to learn something interesting?"

Hana sped to keep up with him. "What's that?"

Corrin smirked and took off, Hana just behind him. "I'm faster than any of you!"

Rinkah sighed as the prince and Hana ran off, both trying to outdo the other and avoid the obstacles before them. "Jeez, it's almost like they're flirting. Guess we can tell the queen her son has a competitive streak."

"That we can," Kaze agreed as he appeared next to her. "Though I wonder. When Hana walked in, I noticed Prince Corrin stare at her. It wasn't the stare of someone meeting for the first time, it was like he recognized her."

Rinkah frowned. "Not possible. Unless… do you know who King Sumeragi had for his retainers?"

"I only know of one," Kaze whispered. "Hana's father was part of his retinue, like my own before his death. That's how Princess Sakura met her, so perhaps Prince Corrin and Hana were introduced when they were toddlers?"

Rinkah shook her head. "Who knows? You can ask the queen about it when we arrive. For now, let's go check on those two competitive hardheads."

Kaze smirked at her. "Like you're any better."

"I'm no sprinter, ninja." Rinkah growled. "I'm a marathon runner, all stamina."

Kaze's smirk only grew before he disappeared again. Rinkah rolled her eyes before trudging down the path again. Eventually, she found Corrin and Hana on their backs beside a tree, Kaze lounging on a branch above them. "Ran themselves ragged?"

"He's fast!" Hana gasped. "Haven't had that good a foot race in forever!"

Corrin coughed a laugh, voice hoarse from panting. "Same. No one could ever keep up back home, so that was fun! I prove myself yet?"

Hana laughed, but went into a coughing fit right after. Once she calmed down, a smile was plastered on her face. "Not quite, still need to see if you can use that weird blade. You got spunk though, I'll give you that!"

Rinkah noted Corrin looked very proud of himself.

"He thinks he's going to an execution." She muttered. "But here he is, making friends. That's some charisma, especially since Hana was spouting suspicions the whole time he was out."

Corrin's voice caught her attention. "Say, Kaze, can I ask you something?"

Kaze looked down at the prince, usual stoicism in place. "What is it, milord?"

Corrin smiled at him. "Well, it was something Rinkah said earlier when we were eating."

"What does 'knock-up' mean?"

-Robin-

"Who's that friend you mentioned?"

Robin hummed at his wife's question, eyes scanning the world below. "Well, part of the story talks about the Rainbow Sage. Prince Corrin went to him to learn about Yato's power, but he died after that. I'm hoping we can get some info about finding the others."

Cordelia nodded and they fell silent for a bit. Until Cordelia spotted something, of course. "Say, we passed into Hoshido, right?"

Robin clicked his tongue. "See something that needs our attention?"

"Yes and no." Cordelia hedged. "I see some Faceless heading for a village that we'll need to wipe out, but we're close to the Bottomless Canyon. Do you want to peek and see if something's there?"

Robin mulled over the idea for a moment before shrugging. "Sure. I'll take care of the Faceless this time and you can check the canyon. Should probably hurry, it looks like there's some travelers about to run into the beasts."

Cordelia laughed. "Don't scare them, alright? Fuga told us how superstitious these people are."

Robin pecked her cheek. "I'll be careful. Let's just get this done and meet up with everyone as soon as we can."

Cordelia patted his leg and Robin loosened his legs from the saddle. "What's the war-cry again?

Robin smirked.

"Ricola!"

Cordelia rolled her eyes as Robin slid out of the saddle and began to dive. "I swear, I wish I knew where you learned such a word."

Robin was currently indisposed, so she turned Theresa around and headed for the canyon. "Let's go girl, we've seen the fireworks enough to know how this ends."

Robin, meanwhile, was howling to the wind. He always enjoyed flying with Cordelia, but there was something exhilarating about free falling through the air. Well, now that he could control himself, the first few times hadn't been pleasant.

Ok, he thought as the ground grew closer. Let's take care of these things as fast as we can. Cordelia may have destroyed that last pack with Salamandra, but I want to try my own thing.

Flipping himself feet first, Robin started to draw on friction and his own power. Lightning gathered around him as the ground rushed to meet him, a wicked grin plastered on his face as he spotted his landing site.

The back of a Faceless.

The lightning around him gathered at his feet and Robin couldn't help the roar that ripped out of his throat.

"Fangfeld!"

He hit the Faceless and lightning raced through its dead flesh, ripping and tearing until it hit the ground. The energy coalesced into snarling wolf heads, streaking through the air and meeting any Faceless they could find before exploding. The murderous electricity flowed through the mindless monsters with ease, the iron of their masks conducting the energy until Robin cut off the spell.

Looking around, Robin nodded. "Alright, I didn't break my legs and all of the monsters are dead. Chalk that up as a success."

The sound of a falling tree made Robin glance to his right, a scorched Faceless lumbering through the snow laden trees. "Now how did I miss you? Must not have gathered enough energy on the way down, I'll have to correct that next time."

Shrugging, Robin began to follow the beast. It was heading in the direction of the travelers he'd seen while flying, so may as well use it as an excuse to meet them.

Did using the mindless creature as an avenue of introduction make him a bad person?

…Nah, he had to do worse during Valm just to get simple matters done. Besides, it's not like the dang thing could hurt anyone with Robin barely ten yards behind it.

He hadn't made the mistake of being further than that in a long time.

-Corrin-

"Does anyone else hear something?"

The group was moving through a thick section of woods now, Kaze and Rinkah promising they'd be out of the snow by nightfall. While Corrin was still unbothered by the cold, Hana was starting to shiver despite her winter cloak.

Kaze glanced around. "True, it does sound like something's coming this way. Just in case, ready your weapons. Prince Corrin, please stay back until we ascertain the threat."

Corrin sighed, but did as told. While the group had made him relax immensely, they were still his captors. Weapons were drawn and stances taken as the noise drew ever closer.

Kaze's eyes widened a moment later. "Faceless!"

The iron-masked monster burst through the trees with a hideous groan, shuriken burying into its flesh immediately. Hana and Rinkah charged, ready to end the beast, when it stiffened.

With a groan, it fell forward and thudded against the ground, a strange sword sticking from its back. Hana and Rinkah halted their charge, flabbergasted, when a new voice called to them. "Hello! This beast giving you trouble?"

Corrin blinked as the Faceless slayer came into view. The only person he'd ever met with purple hair was Camilla, but this man not only had purple hair – his eyes were iridescent, never settling on any one color. He wore a grand cloak decorated with gold and purple markings, underneath golden armor was strapped against his torso. Corrin decided he must be very important.

The man walked over to the Faceless corpse and yanked out the blade, cleaning it on the snow before sheathing it. "Glad to see I caught it in time. You must inform the local authorities to be more vigilant, there was a horde of these things heading for a village just west of here."

"Who are you?" Rinkah demanded, club brandished. "What are you doing in the forest?"

The man shrugged. "I am but a traveler. I was making my way to the coast with my wife when we happened upon the horde. They didn't put up too much of a fight, but villagers are less prepared than I."

Kaze sheathed his blades. "You took down the entire horde yourself? A Faceless horde usually has at least fifteen beasts, more than any one man could handle."

The man shrugged. "I did say my wife was with me, didn't I? Anyway, forgive my rudeness. I'm Robin Marcellus Volk, a traveler. My wife is off seeing if any more of those creatures still walk this land, so I'll be speaking for both of us."

Corrin tilted his head. "Three names? Are you a noble of some sort?"

"That I am." Robin confirmed. "But, not from a land you'd know. I seek the coast so that I may find my friends and return home."

Corrin's frown deepened, but Hana spoke next. "Well, you did remove the Faceless. If you'd like, we can take you with us to Shirasagi and then have someone take you and your wife to the coast."

Robin smiled and bowed. "That would be lovely, thank you. May I have the pleasure of knowing your names?"

Introductions were exchanged, but Corrin just had to know something. "Excuse me for asking, but what is your rank? I know it sounds like prying, but I need to confirm something."

Robin frowned at the prince, but held up his hand. "A moment please. Cordelia, love, come down and join us earth dwellers if you don't mind!"

The call caused some confusion right up until a Pegasus covered in steel and cloth screeched out of the sky and alighted on the ground. A woman with blazing red hair and matching eyes dismounted from the steed and adjusted the golden armor she wore over her red riding tunic. "There's no need to be so formal, you sound like a dandy."

"Only for you," Robin chuckled. "Anyway, these are the travelers we spotted from on high. Going in order we have Kaze, Hana, Rinkah, and a Prince Corrin."

Cordelia blinked, recognition crossing her face, before she schooled her features into a polite mask. "A pleasure to meet you all. My name is Cordelia Tenera Volk."

She bowed, and they greeted her in turn. Once that was done, Robin returned his gaze to Corrin. "Now, to answer your question, we are the ruling couple of a duchy called Felds in the country of Ylisse. As I said, you've likely never heard of either."

"No, I haven't." Corrin agreed. "But I believe I know your daughters."

Robin and Cordelia stared at him before looking to each other and back. "You… do?"

Corrin nodded. "I believe. They have red hair? One rides a black Pegasus?"

"Yes, on one of them," Robin sighed, ruing how their youngest apparently ended up in Nohr. "But not the other. Our eldest daughter has hair like mine and her eyes have separate colors."

"I could've sworn they said she was Morgan's sister." Corrin muttered. "Then I know one of your daughters. I'd tell you more, but I believe Kaze and Hana grow impatient."

Robin glanced to the two in question and noticed their minute fidgeting. "Well I guess we have dallied enough. We'll take you up on your offer, just know my wife and I aren't always… there, if you catch my meaning."

"Give us an example," Rinkah drawled, bouncing her club on her shoulder. "So we know what we're dealing with and all that."

"I tend to organize things," Cordelia laughed, rubbing Theresa's snout. "Unless you put it away, I will put it somewhere. I remember one time I was in a rush and ended up putting flour in the sugar bag. Gave my friend a heart attack when she tried to make a loaf of bread."

Robin smiled sheepishly. "I have a bad habit of running my mouth. Our friends know more about our marital mishaps than Cordelia and I would ever want."

Cordelia smacked him, proving his point. The others were nonplussed about this odd pair, but they'd slain an entire horde of Faceless. At this point, the more the merrier.

"Let's keep going." Kaze sighed. "I will need to report the Faceless attack, but we'll worry about that later."

He turned and started down the path again, Rinkah shrugging and following while Hana sidled up beside Corrin. "Wanna hear something funny?"

Corrin tilted his head. "What?"

"There's two more at Shirasagi that are that strong." Hana said. "Three, if Prince Ryoma's there. They're a couple that're looking for their son, but they've volunteered to serve Hoshido until he's found. Maybe those are their friends?"

Corrin scoffed. "That sounds like a coincidence. I haven't trusted coincidence since Xander started going to one particular fort every month."

"Oh do tell," Cordelia interjected, making the two leap apart. "I love me a saucy tale, if you're willing to share with your friend present that is."

Robin sighed and grabbed Cordelia's collar before dragging her away. "I forgot to say, don't mention anything that could be construed as romantic around my wife. She will go full on matchmaker before you can say first date."

Corrin and Hana looked to each other for a moment, dumbfounded, before they started laughing. Cordelia, freed from Robin's grip, smiled at the sound. "I wonder if she knows it yet?"

Robin glanced back at the laughing pair. "You mean that she already knows him?"

"No," Cordelia sighed.

"I wonder if she knows his heart can't decide."

-Morgan-

Coming back had been awful.

Poor Felicia had to explain to the royals that Corrin had been, quite literally, yanked into the canyon by the very sword he wielded. If it wasn't for Lucina and Morgan intercepting the siblings' weapons, Felicia would've been spaghetti.

After very sternly telling the royals to leave Felicia alone, they reiterated the tale while adding what they'd seen. Lucina was very clear that Corrin was likely unharmed, but also likely to have been found by Hoshido after he'd been taken to safety.

That had incensed the royals, but Xander had fumed further when the one and only Iago arrived with Garon's newest orders.

They were to gather forces at the southwest border to prepare to invade the Plains of Hoshido.

Iago was purposefully vague about the reasons for this invasion and left, saying the siblings must follow Garon's word. While Xander steamed over it and Leo tried to find a reasoning for it, Camilla was still interrogating Felicia.

"How will you explain this to your sister!" She hissed. "I've half a mind to try for your neck again, and I'm more worried than mad. If Flora finds out about this…"

Felicia was sobbing, unable to speak.

Elise stepped in. "Camillia, that's enough. I'm worried too, but taking it out on Felicia won't do any good. She's miserable enough as is."

Camilla kept her glare for a moment before letting it go. "You're right Elise, it's not Felicia's fault. I apologize for being so violent, there was no excuse for me to do that."

Felicia shook her head, but couldn't answer over her hiccups. Instead, Morgan took over as advocate. "You should focus on trying to sort out what's going to happen next. You've been ordered to invade, but that barrier Gunter told us about still stands. How does King Garon plan to remove it?"

"Were that I knew." Xander growled, nose pinched. "This just doesn't make any sense."

Leo sighed, voice melancholy as he laid a hand on Xander's shoulder. "I think I know what's going on. That sword, Ganglari, and the dragon saving Corrin… I think it's all a set up."

He looked to the horrified Camilla and Elise. "I believe Ganglari was enchanted to throw Corrin into the canyon. From there, he'd be saved by a dragon that had hidden itself at his side, then he was left for the Hoshidans to capture. Then, once he's in the presence of the queen while being questioned…"

Leo sighed and bit the arrow. "Ganglari will likely be detonated. This entire series of events, from testing him to giving such a light sentence, was all to kill Queen Mikoto. Corrin making it back alive would just be a pleasant bonus."

Camilla gaped in horror while Elise began to cry. Off to the side, Lucina and Morgan watched, unable to help.

"What will we do?" Lucina asked. "I pity their situation, but a war is the last thing we should allow."

Morgan nodded. "Yeah, I wish Sev wasn't hungover. She'd be able to figure out what to do, even how to tell Felicia's sister what happened."

"Tell me what?" Someone asked, the one and only Flora walking through the entrance to the hall. "Wait… Felicia, what's wrong?!"

Flora ran to her sister's side, Felicia's tears redoubling at the sight of her. The royal siblings had gone silent at the cry as well, shocked she was there and unwilling to break her heart.

"Can someone explain what's going on?!" Flora demanded. "Why's my sister crying, where on earth are Gunter and Prince Corrin? Where's Lilith for snow's sake!"

Elise, being the most empathetic of her siblings, took the plunge. "Flora… Lilith's gone, we don't know where she is. Gunter's…dead and we think…we think Corrin's been captured."

Flora's eyes steadily widened as Elise explained, a chill wind shooting through the room followed by an ever-increasing rain of snow. The royal siblings bore the brunt of the cold stoically, knowing Flora was doing her best not to explode.

"Lucy, take care of her." Morgan sighed. "I'll make sure you know about anything that happens."

Lucina nodded and strode to Flora's side, her hand going to the devastated girl's shoulder. "Come with me, you both need time to think about this."

Flora nodded mutely, allowing Lucina to help her and Felicia stand before being guided away. Morgan took a deep breath before muttering a spell under her breath, a pulse of heat dispelling the cold. "Alright, here's how we're going to work."

She pointed to the dour royals. "Nothing can be done about Corrin right now, so don't grieve until we have a body. You can't go against the king's orders, but Lucy and I will be going with you. As Prince Leo said, something's fishy about this whole mess. We can't make your decisions for you, but we'll offer an ear at least."

Xander snorted. "You sure take charge when the going gets tough. Are you experienced enough in war and intrigue to speak with such confidence?"

"More or less." Morgan shrugged. "You don't get to be a duke's daughter without learning…speaking of, where are your retainers?"

Camilla brightened. "I was proud to discover that both of my surly retainers are very happy drunks. They were dancing and making merry last night after Selena dragged Beruka into her drinking contest. They emptied three casks all by themselves while singing off key."

Morgan flushed, embarrassed for her sister by proxy. Leo decided to add to it. "Odin and Niles decided it would be fun to throw on an impromptu play as well. Odin was doing all the acting while Niles egged him on. Needless to say, I've banned Odin from all forms of alcohol."

Morgan flushed further, hands going to hide her face. "That's… my husband all right… why did I marry him again?"

"That's not all." Xander drawled, glad to turn the tables on her. "Laslow was part of that drinking contest alongside Peri and Effie. Effie drank them all under the table, but the best part is that Laslow proceeded to drag Peri into one of the strangest dances I've ever witnessed. It was like watching a pair of limp noodles try to untie themselves."

Morgan squatted down, trying to shrink into the floor. "I will hold that as blackmail, forever… but man, they really did all that?"

"Hey Morg! You got any of that…uh, fire brandy or somet'in?"

Morgan glanced through her fingers to see Severa stumbling her way, hand on her head and dressed like she'd been hit by a twister. "Oh Naga."

Camilla giggled as Elise ran to help the hung-over woman. "Well, that was some much-needed levity. Xander, Leo, shall we go prepare while Morgan sorts out her sister?"

Xander smiled, clearly amused. "That would be best. I fear she'll burst into flame should we stay."

"And us with her." Leo muttered. "I'll start organizing logistics. Camilla, I trust you'll be checking on the flier divisions?"

Camilla nodded, and they left. Xander took the time to muse on the situation before him, where Selena and Morgan were having a one-sided argument while Elise tried to calm Selena down. "I guess that's what a semi-normal family looks like. …Wish that could be us."

He shook his head and left too. He needed to go over whatever intelligence they had on the Plains of Hoshido to come up with something resembling a strategy. Not to mention puzzle out why Flora was there in the first place.

Morgan watched him go before feeling a tug on her sleeve. "What is it?"

Severa put her mouth next to Morgan's ear, thinking she was whispering. "Lucy and I… we beat your record while you were chasing Owain."

Morgan looked at her, aghast.

"How the hell did you ride cowgirl while balancing more than two plates?! We didn't even bring our private things since we were expecting a war!"

Elise gaped at them, not sure if she should be embarrassed, impressed, or horrified.

Or all three!

-Corrin-

Arriving in Shirasagi was quite the experience for Corrin.

He'd never seen such a bright sky or so lively a city before, though Windmire was the only one he'd ever seen until then. The colors jumped out at him as well, the hues almost violent as they jumped off the walls.

The people were lively too, though he heard mutters whenever someone got a good look at his armor. While he was sure no one would attack him, it was marvelous to see Robin and Cordelia weave through the crowd with ease, even though most parted to allow the Pegasus rider through.

They stopped before a long series of stairs, Kaze turning to address the group. "Alright, this is where we'll have to start splitting up. Rinkah, you know where to go?"

Rinkah shrugged. "I get to have some bonfire ramen for the first time in months, do you really think I'm gonna stick with you shmucks?"

Kaze rolled his eyes. "Of course not. Anyway, everyone else, follow me. Fair warning, it's a long climb."

Hana smirked at Corrin. "Bet you can't climb it in one go. I've been doing this for years!"

Corrin raised a brow. "Truly? What are you willing to bet?"

"Only the best dumplings ever." Hana laughed, taking an arrogant pose. "I'll pay for them if you win. If I win, you have to pay."

Corrin's other brow rose. "I don't have any money, least of all Hoshidan money. How on earth is that fair?"

Hana's arrogant posture dropped, her face twisted in thought. Off to the side, Cordelia watched with unabashed interest. "This is adorable."

"They act like old friends," Robin conceded. "But let's not ring the chapel bells yet, shall we? The boy thinks he's going to be executed up there, let them have their fun."

Cordelia pouted, but Robin ignored her in favor of Kaze. "Would you like a ride up? Theresa can fit three people and we can keep an eye on these two while we're at it. Or would you prefer to go ahead so we don't get shot down?"

Kaze shook his head. "I'll go ahead and inform Queen Mikoto of our arrival. I believe the entire royal family is here as well, so don't be surprised if you get quite the welcome."

He blurred away, leaving Robin and Cordelia with the still-thinking Hana and waiting Corrin. Rinkah had long since wandered off, the promise of food taking her away, so Robin and Cordelia went back to their conversation.

"It's strange to see all this," Robin mused as he gazed back at the city. "Ylisstol isn't this lively."

Cordelia nodded, her hand snaking around his. "Yeah… the stories didn't do this place justice."

Robin leaned into her. "Nor did they do Corrin justice. He's kind, for sure, but I never would've guessed he was so competitive."

"Hana's far nicer than the stories say, too." Cordelia noted. "More than one version told of how much she disliked Corrin and treated him poorly until either Sakura confronted her or Corrin won her respect."

Robin frowned. "We both know just how inaccurate those accounts are. Need I remind what Cynthia told Sumia?"

Cordelia cringed, the image of a horrified Sumia passing through her mind. "Quite… anyway, it looks like they've decided on something. Better saddle up before we lose them."

Robin chuckled and helped Cordelia into the saddle before pulling himself up. "May we know the terms?"

Corrin answered the call. "First to the top wins, loser has to proclaim the victor's greatness as loud as possible!"

Robin guffawed. "Geez, that sounds like one of the girls' competitions. Alright, ready when you lot are!"

On an unheard signal, the prince and samurai took off, their strides carrying them up the stairs with all possible haste. Cordelia whipped the reins and they were soaring through the air a moment later, sure to keep the racers in sight.

"They're doing quite well." Cordelia noted. "We're almost at the cloud layer and they haven't slowed down."

Robin licked his lips. "True… I wonder what happens if they tie?"

Cordelia pressed against Theresa's side and they glided to a position directly over the top of the stairs, a colorful congregation gesturing at them. Cordelia and Robin ignored them in favor of the runners that were still neck and neck.

"And…goal!"

The runners collapsed at the top of the stairs, panting heavily and sweat rolling down their skin. Cordelia lowered Theresa to the ground and hopped from the saddle with Robin. "That was a tie."

"No…way…" Hana panted. "I so… put my foot… on the step…first."

Cordelia shook her head. "Nope. You two hit the top at the exact same time. Looks like you'll have to work something out, but after our observers speak their piece."

Hana shot up and bent into a perfect right angle. "Forgive my unseemly appearance, I didn't believe you would all come out to meet us!"

Corrin remained panting on the ground, but tilted his head back to find a man with red armor hovering over him. "…And… you are?"

The man smirked and held out his hand. "I'm High Prince Ryoma of Hoshido. You're Prince Corrin, correct?"

Corrin nodded and took the hand. "That I am. I suppose you'd like to hear about that attack on the border before executing me?"

"Execution?" Ryoma asked, clearly confused. "I do want to know about that attack, but why would I execute my brother?"

Corrin's face went flat. "Say what?"

Hana agreed. "Wait, he's a Hoshidan royal?! Oh geez, I made such a fool of myself!"

"I'm telling the truth," Ryoma assured. "Though it doesn't surprise me that you're skeptical. Mother will explain later, but I believe we have introductions in order."

He waved to the congregation and they came forward. One woman was shaking, her red hair brighter even than Cordelia's.

"In order," Ryoma began, pointing to each in turn. "This is Hinoka, Takumi, Sakura, and Queen Mikoto, our mother. The ones behind them are our retainers and some very important guests."

Corrin blinked as he looked to each person, putting the names to faces. When his gaze landed on the queen, his eyes narrowed. "I… don't know any of you."

The queen's face drooped. "Oh, my child… it's so wonderful to see you again, though you don't know my face. It's been so long…"

Robin sidled up to Corrin's side, voice a whisper. "I'm not the most observant of people, but I think you'd make her day if you offered a hug. You may not know if she's your mother for true, but what if she is?"

Corrin gulped. "I…I don't know…"

He sighed and looked to Mikoto. "I don't know if what you say is true. My family is Xander, Camilla, Leo, Elise…they've taken care of me. Yet…"

A frown marred Corrin's face. "I do feel like there's something there. With all of you. It's faint, nearly non-existent, but it is something…"

Mikoto's face brightened, a great smile blooming on her face. "My child… come here you!"

She strode forward and wrapped Corrin in a strong hug, breath exploding from Corrin's lungs. A moment later, Hinoka leapt forward and joined in, crushing Corrin further.

"Mother, sister, stop! You'll kill him!"

Sakura ran forward to try and pry the two ecstatic women off, Ryoma laughing heartily before assisting. Everyone else had a good laugh as well.

Until they couldn't pry the two off.

As the rest panicked about saving Corrin from two overly affectionate family members, Robin and Cordelia skirted around the edge to meet the guests. "Lon'qu, Olivia! So, this is where you two ended up."

Olivia smiled and hugged Cordelia, Lon'qu and Robin trading grips. "Yep, landed right in the middle of Prince Ryoma's camp. Where'd you two go, we saw a light show out east?"

"Desert." Robin answered. "Got to meet the Wind Tribe. Ricken's gonna be upset when he hears about this."

Lon'qu smirked. "Well at least you haven't been fighting off disciple requests. Hana over there was ordered to accompany the ninja so Olivia could have some peace."

Cordelia chuckled. "I see. Well, have you enjoyed being here? I assume you've met Azura by now."

"I have," Olivia gushed. "The stories do her work no justice! Her voice is beyond heavenly and she's able to pick up on dances faster than anyone save Inigo! It's been an absolute joy and here's the best part… Takumi's already engaged!"

Robin and Cordelia blinked. "Really? I thought he didn't marry until after the war?"

"Apparently not." Lon'qu grunted. "The prince and his retainer imbibed too much at a weaver's festival. They came back with news that Oboro is pregnant with Prince Takumi's child."

Cordelia looked over to the gathering which was now panicking over Corrin's unconscious form. "That must've been…interesting."

Olivia shrugged. "There was a big feast and everything. Oboro's not here, obviously, but Queen Mikoto's been going over expectations now that she'll be joining the family."

"How odd," Robin mused. "Oh, before I forget, we know that Morgan landed in Nohr and considering everyone appears to be in pairs, Lucina's likely with her. Corrin believed that Severa was in Nohr too, but his description didn't match."

"Too bad," Olivia sighed. "Oh and… we need to find Donnel and Lissa at some point. They have the amulet."

Cordelia groaned. "I was hoping you had it. Alright, if Corrin's here now then we should only be a few days from the confrontation."

"True," Lon'qu grunted. "But we're not gonna let them fight, right?"

Robin smirked and looked to the Hoshidans again, his eyes finding long light blue hair. Intense eyes of gold turned to meet his and Robin's smirk widened.

"Of course not. The question's whether they'll listen."

Ch. End

Another fun chapter that was still something of a fight. Sorry for the wait, I had a lot of things to do the last few weeks that have pulled me away from this story.

Now, review responses!

Artyom-Dreizehn: Hope you like this one too! As I've said, Corrin's lack of common knowledge and sense makes it very easy to write comedy with him. The hard part's doing it with the others since they're not naturally silly people unless I make them OOC.

Brackentheinvisible101: Happy to hear you like this story too! I don't know yet if they'll stop the war at large, it's kind of important to Corrin actually making a decision, but they won't let the royals fight without at least talking. How they deal with the stubbornness, well… they may need to show the mortals their place.

SilverStorm0: He's a strong man and Kagero doesn't drink aside from social occasions. He'll cave eventually, but it'll be fun seeing how he holds up with two voracious matchmakers nearby.

RedNephilim: Hope you keep enjoying it!

xGlacies: As requested, here they are! Hope you enjoy their brand of silliness.

That's all I have! Hope everyone enjoys and I'll see you next time!