Never Disappear on a God-Parent

by Gallian Squad 7

Severa, Owain, and Inigo have been retainers to the Nohrian royal siblings for several weeks now. While they may not be thinking on their old home in Ylisse, their parents have most certainly noticed they're missing. When said parents are the literal successors to the gods and you add in a very upset little sister and jilted lover, you tend to have lots and lots of explosions.

8. Family

Alright, who's ready to RUUUUMMMBBLLLEEEE!

*Ahem*

Today's the day, folks, we get to that big choice on Corrin's part and get to see our Ylissean friends have some fun. We may even get to see some 'friendly' sparring between the parents and kids if you catch my meaning. ;)

In any case, the Ylisseans are there to act insane at this point, so don't expect any semi-serious parts to last very long.

Hope you enjoy!

Family

If Corrin had been asked to look back on his first time in Hoshido, he'd compare it to his time in the Northern Fortress. The good parts of course, not the prisoner of the walls part. In fact, he was quite thankful that most everyone-minus Hana and Azura-gave him all the space he needed.

Then again, who can say they've crashed the Hoshidan equivalent of a fairytale royal wedding?

Well, Corrin didn't crash it willingly. He was quite content to see Takumi, who Corrin regarded as the most sensible in his suspicion of Corrin's arrival, actually smile. Even Oboro, Takumi's fiancée, was someone that Corrin regarded highly for her-admittedly extreme-distrust of Nohr.

His regard came after he heard her story, when Mr. Robin had forced the two to sit and talk under pain of Queen Mikoto's disapproving stare.

That stare was a force all its own.

In any case, the wedding occurred about five days after Corrin's arrival. He'd seen the royal family dressed in their greatest finery alongside their retainers and Corrin had to silently admit to feeling under-dressed as he walked back to the plateau.

Then he'd run into the travelers, who'd somehow procured lovely furisode-kimonos, before getting forced into a formal kimono as well. Thankfully, he was kept out of sight between the travelers and Azura, with Sakura happily explaining the ceremony when he was forced to join the royal siblings.

Corrin found himself bored to tears soon after the ceremony began. Or should he say ceremonies. It wasn't just the actual wedding, though Corrin felt obligated to congratulate the couple, several other formalities came with a royal marrying a commoner.

After that was done, Takumi had 'begrudgingly' invited him to the reception. As it was entirely family and close friends, given the quick nature of the occasion, the atmosphere was far more relaxed than the stiff facades seen at the ceremony.

Then Ms. Cordelia and Mr. Lon'qu brought out what smelled like supremely strong liquor and Corrin's memory of that day turned hazy. Several moments stood out, like meeting Ryoma's retainer, Saizo, a beautiful duet by Ms. Olivia and Azura, and he was pretty sure Ryoma and Hinoka snuck out at one point with a different person each.

Oh, wait, that's right. Ryoma had snuck out with his other retainer, Kagero, both clearly three-sheets to the wind, while Hinoka left with Sakura's retainer, a handsome man named Subaki.

Regardless, the hangover Corrin woke to made him swear off alcohol altogether. If this is what happened when people indulged out of hand, then he never wanted it ever again.

It didn't help he woke on the floor, thankfully still clothed, with both of his arms and one of his legs asleep. One arm had Hana dreaming of something while using said arm as a sword. Azura crushed the other under her back. The singer apparently believed she was a towel which needed to dry, if her sleep-talk meant anything.

Finally, his leg was under … Kaze. Corrin hadn't properly processed the ninja's presence before he realized Kaze thought the leg was a childhood log that had saved his life. Corrin decided to take all this to his grave, if only to save them all the embarrassment.

While he didn't know what else happened, as he'd fled the room the moment he could, the palace servants whispered about the ruckus and how Mr. Robin and Ms. Olivia had scolded their spouses for bringing the 'special' drink on their journey.

Then again, they also gossiped about how Queen Mikoto had never been happier, so Corrin supposed there was a positive outcome too.

In any case, Corrin had been surprised when Queen Mikoto called for him the day after that fiasco. Yes, he'd had time to order his thoughts and come to some decisions, but Corrin was still nervous when the queen led him to a room filled with children's toys.

"This was your room." Mikoto said, voice filled with nostalgia. "You may not remember it, but we spent many fun days in here. Games, jokes, wrestling with your father… I'm pretty sure you got into a duel with Ryoma in here, now that I think about it."

Corrin looked around the room, letting his eyes linger on each object. Nothing really stood out, except for some drawings from a child's hand and a small wooden sword.

Mikoto noticed his gaze. "Those drawings are ones you did yourself. Hinoka enjoyed helping you draw, but you didn't want her help on those."

She sighed. "I truly believe she has a great taste for beauty. Were it she could see that herself."

Corrin nodded absently. Hinoka was a kind, plainspoken woman that, once she'd calmed down, was perfectly willing to help Corrin with anything he needed. Kind of like Camilla, though the two couldn't have been greater opposites in both appearance and temperament if they tried.

"This sword," Mikoto continued, unaware of Corrin's thoughts, "was your first."

She picked up the wooden blade and held it out to Corrin. "Yukimura made this as a birthday gift, carved it himself. Can't tell you how happy your father was to see it, let alone little Ryoma."

Corrin had to hold in a chuckle. Imagining the great, regal High Prince as an eager child was certainly amusing.

Mikoto seemed to remember something. "Oh, I wanted to ask, you know Hana yes?"

Corrin blinked before nodding. "Yeah, I know her. Likes to think she can win against me in races and keeps pulling me into competitions like they're going out of style. Personally, I think I'm just her way of venting when Ms. Olivia turns her down."

Mikoto giggled, eyes shining with mirth. "Well, I'm glad to hear you two started right where you left off."

Corrin blinked, not processing that statement. "Huh?"

"Hana was your first playmate." Mikoto sighed, nostalgia returning. "Ryoma and Hinoka were busy with lessons while Takumi and Sakura were with your father on a trip to the coast. I was busy and couldn't entertain you, so Nagi Kawano, your father's retainer, volunteered Hana."

Corrin bit his lip, something faint and vague clawing at the edges of his mind. "Truly? I thought she was Sakura's best friend."

"She was and is," Mikoto agreed. "But you were right there. Oh, how you two argued and competed. There were running bets on who would give in each day or who would walk away with the most bruises. Sakura cried more than once getting you two to calm down."

Corrin felt the stirring fade. "I… see. Um, do you require anything else of me?"

Mikoto's mood fell and her shoulders drooped. "I… didn't want to make the suggestion, but I think there's something else which may help."

Corrin looked intrigued so Mikoto continued. "The Hoshidan throne is also known as the Throne of Truth. It allows any who sit in it to be broken of all curses, lies, and half-truths in their mind. I didn't want to bring it up out of the blue-"

"Wait," Corrin said, "are you implying I was brainwashed?"

Mikoto shook her head, sorrow heavy on her shoulders. "I don't know, but it's for that reason I didn't bring it up earlier. If anything, I hope sitting on it might clear you mind of any falsehoods, both intentional and not, so that you can make a clear decision."

A smile made its way onto her face. "Corrin… I want you to be happy. I've wanted you to be happy since the day I first held you. If… if that means you go back to Nohr, then I'll give you my blessing."

Corrin froze. That… that was a big concession on her part! He was a visitor that had seen many parts of the palace, especially ones where few patrolled. Letting him go was like gifting Nohr with a treasure trove of information!

Yet she'd do so anyway, he could see it in her eyes.

"I…" Corrin tried. "I… I'll give it a try, if what you say is true. Just don't expect much, ok? It's not like I'll make an immediate decision, no matter what I see."

Mikoto nodded and strode to the door. "That, I can accept. Actually, if you come with me, we can get you on the throne now."

Corrin nodded and followed her through the door, only to find Ms. Cordelia scolding her husband. "Why would you spy on such a beautiful moment? We all agreed to leave them be today!"

Robin chuckled and scratched his head, ignoring the surprised royals. "Well, what can I say? I was just wandering by and I had to see what was going on. Kind of reminded me of that talk we had with Sev and Morg a few years ago."

Cordelia glared at him for a moment before groaning. "Why'd you have to bring that up? Now I'm getting emotional."

Corrin swore small spouts of flame shot from Cordelia's hair a moment later, but shook it off as a trick of the light. "Excuse me, what are you doing?"

Cordelia finally realized they had an audience. "Oh, terribly sorry, Your Majesty, Prince Corrin, I was scolding my husband."

Mikoto tilted her head before giggling. "I did that to Sumeragi more times than I care to remember. He always was a hothead in private, just like Takumi. Ryoma's lucky he picked up the calm-collected side."

She started forward again, Robin and Cordelia making way for her. "You two may wish to check on Ryoma. I heard he was in quite a conundrum, having some help might do him good."

Cordelia looked very intrigued and Robin threw Mikoto an annoyed side-eye before getting dragged away by his wife. Corrin, after they left, had to ask. "What was that about?"

"I simply wish this to be private." Mikoto answered, a small grin on her face. "Lady Cordelia has already shown herself to be quite the romantic. Considering Ryoma snuck off with Kagero two nights ago, I let her draw her own conclusions."

Corrin felt a smirk rise on his face. If that was true, the poor prince had one hell of a headache coming his way.

Mikoto didn't speak again for a time, simply guiding Corrin through the halls until they arrived at the throne room. As she had said, the room was currently empty, but he felt anxiety grip him.

Did he truly wish to see what lay in his mind? If he didn't remember, then maybe it had been traumatic. Maybe there was a good reason for forgetting.

"It's ok, Corrin." Mikoto sighed, turning to face him on a raised platform. "I'm not forcing you to do this. If you wish to not sit in the seat, then we can head into town. Remember, we planned on introducing you to quell the populace."

Corrin sighed. "Right… I still want to apologize, I didn't think that diplomat would raise such a stink."

Mikoto waved him off. "The fool was removed from his post, may I remind. I had no idea he harbored such strong anti-Nohr views, even Oboro isn't that bad."

Corrin spared a thought to the woman. Oboro did, at least, make the distinction between soldiers and civilians when it came to Nohr, even if she still made that scary face. He wondered if she was enjoying her time with Takumi now that they didn't have to be all secretive.

Mikoto waited patiently as Corrin thought on the throne before him. It didn't matter to her if he decided to sit or not. Corrin was still her baby and she'd love him regardless.

"I…I'll do it," Corrin eventually sighed. "Is there… something special I must do? Like, sit in it a certain way?"

Mikoto raised a brow. "There's… more than one way to sit in a chair? I mean, I know you can do much with your legs, but sitting itself?"

"You wouldn't believe some of the things I've seen." Corrin chirped, a happy smirk on his face. "Xander had it in his head one must lay across a chair for several years while Leo thought you had to sit on a book first. Then Elise had the idea to do a short headstand before sitting."

He shook his head with a chuckle. "We were all small then, but my way was trying to do a hand-stand for as long as possible. Boy was my world shattered when Flora told me that was silly."

Mikoto had to hold in her mirth. She'd met Prince Xander several times on diplomatic meetings in Cheve, so imagining the stoic young man so silly was a treat. "Well, amusement aside, whenever you're ready."

Corrin calmed himself before taking the stairs one at a time. The throne felt so much larger than it was, but Corrin could still appreciate the sturdy wood and resplendent colors.

It had been well taken care of.

A breath exploded from his lips and Corrin finally took a seat. Nothing happened for a moment, but then he saw something, a memory…

Garon… killing King Sumeragi… taking Corrin away…

Hana, so much younger and… smiling at him… she had sauce on her cheek…

Flora was there too… a child once more… but holding him, driving away nightmares…

Then the Nohrian siblings, smiling at him… all so genuine… welcoming of the captive…

Corrin was gasping for breath at this point, but he felt compelled to look up.

And beheld gods.

Hands landed on his shoulders and wrenched him from the throne, Mikoto's worried face and Ryoma's stoic visage meeting him. "Corrin, can you hear me? Mother, why did you place him on the throne?"

Mikoto looked ready to cry. "I simply wondered if he sat on the throne it would help him. I… I never imagined he'd react like this!"

Corrin's breathing slowed, mind catching up with the images and memories that had broken free. "R-Ryoma?"

Ryoma's face loosened in relief. "Praise be, you sound alright. Are you ok, should I get Sakura?"

Corrin shook his head. "No… I just… I remember, some things."

He patted Ryoma's shoulder. "Sorry for forgetting you, big brother. I just hope you can share the title."

Ryoma's face held naked emotion for the first time Corrin could remember. "You… remember me? What about the others, and who should I share the title with, if it brings such joy?"

Corrin nodded and pulled on one of the memories. "You… were attempting to copy one of the ninjas. Kaze's father, I think. Takumi and I got dragged into it and we tried to sneak up on father while he was in the bath."

"But the branch snapped and we landed on our sisters." Ryoma finished, a nostalgic mirth in his voice. "Hinoka screamed at us for hours."

Corrin nodded, but grew grim. "It may be fun to remember, Ryoma, but… I still consider the Nohrian royals part of my family. It may not be what you wish to hear, but they've treated me like blood from day one. I have friends that are Nohrians too, and I do not wish to cut them from my life."

Ryoma frowned, but nodded thoughtfully. "I will have to meet the royals first. Mayhaps we have misjudged them, and King Garon, if you think so fondly of them."

Corrin nodded, only to be crushed in the embrace of Mikoto. "My baby boy! Oh how I hoped you would remember, and my wish has been granted! Come, come, we must tell the kingdom of this joyous news!"

Ryoma had to stop Mikoto from dragging Corrin out of the room. Instead, he got them to agree on a public announcement a few hours later and went to inform the others. Mikoto pouted the whole way, but eventually went to find Yukimura.

Corrin was left alone in the throne room, though he sighed after the doors shut. "You can come out now."

The travelers seemed to melt out of the shadows, sheepish grins on their faces. "Uh… hi."

Corrin glared at Robin. "Why did you not say we were traveling with gods? You'd have gotten far better accommodations then meager bed-rolls."

Cordelia shrugged. "And miss your naiveté at its finest? No thanks."

"We also don't want you to rely on us." Olivia continued, interrupting Corrin's next question. "The history of this land must be written by its people, not us. All we wish is to find our children and leave."

Corrin narrowed his eyes. "That's quite callous. Are you not supposed to aid your worshippers?"

"We have none." Lon'qu drawled. "Nor are we gods quite yet. Our powers may give us equal dominion over this plane, but we hail from another time. It is not our place to intervene in your struggles."

Corrin snorted. "You sure seem to enjoy screwing around. Lady Cordelia has driven Hinoka batty with her constant refusals to train and I've seen your antics."

"Trust me dear," Cordelia sighed, "we're not the nutty ones. Also, we will have our fun, nothing can stop that, but we shall deal only in minor matters or things that affect us personally. Your personal struggles are your own."

Olivia looked a tad smug. "It will be entertaining, at least, to see how you juggle your personal life. Hana could not be more obvious if she tried."

"Nor could Azura." Lon'qu muttered. "Damn her reasons, we've dealt with far better stoics than her. Libra would have a field day."

Corrin had a feeling this conversation would get worse if he brought up his female friends in Nohr, namely Felicia and Flora. He didn't know why he felt that, but his sense of danger was tingling.

Robin cleared his throat. "Regardless, we'll be taking a back-seat. Our help will come only if the situation is desperate enough, and even then, we answer to no one on this plane. We will do as we wish, and for now, we wish to be spectators."

Corrin didn't look satisfied with that answer, but sighed. "Very well. I'd ask if you have any advice to give, but I'd like to speak with Azura. My memories are not complete, even with so much returning to me, and I hope she can fill me in on the years in Hoshido when I was gone."

Cordelia looked very excted, but Robin held out an arm to stop her. "Go ahead. We'll be in town exploring, so don't be surprised if you see us there."

Corrin nodded and left the plane-walkers behind. His mind had even more to process now that he'd discovered their true nature. Yet, for the first time in weeks, his memories were clear.

What he wouldn't give to bring his two families together in peace, especially when he knew they'd all make great friends.

Azura's voice broke through his thoughts, Corrin following the song to the lake that Azura had claimed as her own. Once again, he found himself enraptured by the beauty of the song and singer, but still he forced his words out. "Azura, have a minute?"

Azura stopped and turned to find Corrin walking towards her. "I can spare some time, yes. Though… I thought for sure you'd have gone into the city by now."

Corrin shook his head and quickly recapped the last few hours, leaving out the plane-walkers identities. Azura listened patiently before gesturing to the edge of the pier, the pair taking a seat and dipping their toes in the cool water. "You've had quite the day."

Corrin groaned and leaned back. "Yeah, it's been enough to make my head pound."

Azura smiled and patted his hand. "Well, I'll be glad to share some stories about the others. Honestly, from the sound of it, I'm glad you've come into your memories. Sitting on the Throne of Truth may have been reckless, but it appears to have paid off."

Corrin appreciated the support. "Thanks. It's just… I still think of the royal family in Nohr as my family too. They're kind people, even silly if you ask me. I think both sides would be great friends if they just listened."

Azura hummed. "If what you've told me of them the last few days is true, then I believe that as well. Perhaps it would even secure truly lasting peace."

Corrin glanced to Azura and felt himself stare. Smiles weren't rare per se with Azura, but the one she wore was so genuine, it made her even lovelier.

Azura standing broke his reverie. "We may as well start for the plaza. They were doing your announcement today, correct?"

Corrin nodded and stood, chatter and stories soon flowing between them. It was amusing and heartwarming all at once to see Azura so openly discussing the royals she'd grown up with, whether it be tales of mischief or of intimacy.

Then he got tackled by a bawling Hinoka and Sakura, ruining the atmosphere.

Azura watched the pile warmly, glad to see the sisters so relieved. In fact, seeing Corrin try to reassure them while blushing up a storm…

It made him look so cute.

Something stirred in her heart at the thought, especially when Hana came over to rescue Corrin while Subaki restrained Hinoka. This feeling grew stronger as Corrin dusted himself off and shared an easy laugh with Hana.

Am I… jealous? No, it can't be, I've only known him a few weeks.

As Azura pondered this strange emotion, Hinoka finally got herself under control. "Let go of me Subaki, I'm good!"

Subaki did so with a grin, Hinoka glared at him with a blush before looking at Corrin. "I, uh… can't tell you how happy I am to hear you remember, Corrin. It was lonely, you know?"

Corrin nodded and smiled, already braced for what was to come. "I bet. It's not like anyone else is brave enough to go on your expeditions. That ramen shop still doing well?"

Hinoka flew forward again, Corrin ready for it this time. "Hey, don't do that. We still have stuff to do before all the sappiness!"

"I kind of wish you were still naïve." Sakura muttered shyly. "I liked teaching you things."

Hana laughed and pointed at Corrin. "Are you kidding me? This guy doesn't know what sushi is! He thought it was a kind of cow!"

The group fell into laughter, chatter filling the air again. It took them some time to work their way into town, talking as they were, but more delays hit when food was offered. Corrin found himself with no less than three snacks at one point, but he shared with Azura and Hana since they hadn't gotten any.

Hinoka muttered something to Sakura that sounded like 'dense as a brick' shortly thereafter.

In spite of that, they arrived at the plaza without issue, Corrin silently marveling at the statue of the Dawn Dragon that dominated the area. Their arrival coincided with the end of a speech Mikoto was giving, the queen turning to find them. "Ah, so you've arrived."

Corrin nodded and stepped forward, mutters breaking through the crowd. Looking around, Corrin spotted the travelers, who waved, before Mikoto filled his view. "Are you ready to greet your people?"

"Wouldn't be here otherwise." Corrin tried to jest, but it came out as a nervous croak.

Mikoto smiled again before hearing more chatter from behind her. A moment later, she spotted a red smog coating Corrin's sword, the one he'd called Ganglari…

The sword flew from its sheathe, landing in the hands of a cloaked figure in the crowd. Corrin and the royals had barely a moment to gawk before the figure slammed Ganglari into the ground.

A ball of purple magic formed around the blade before expanding violently, the magic destroying all in its path whether it be stone or flesh. The people cried in shock, pain, and fear as the orb expanded.

Then the magic stilled and broke into wisps, the figure appearing again. Ganglari glowed red, a dozen cracks running down the blade, before it shattered into razor fragments. The fragments hung in the air before turning of their own accord.

They raced toward Corrin.

Corrin barely blinked before the fragments went flying, several whizzing by before a tight grouping appeared and flew straight for his chest.

But Mikoto, the mother he'd only just remembered, leapt before him. It happened in slow motion to Corrin, each impact jolting Mikoto's body in excruciating detail.

Then it was over. Mikoto let out a wheezing gasp before tumbling forward, Corrin caught her even though he was shaking. "Mother… why?"

Mikoto smiled at him as she was laid down. "You're… not hurt then? I'm… glad…"

Her eyes closed, the words hanging in the air. Corrin heard Sakura scream and the sound of Ryoma charging into the plaza with Raijinto bared.

But he focused on none of that. All he could do was stare at the body of his mother, memories of a childhood he'd only just recalled flashing before his eyes.

"Mother!"

That was his own voice, his own sobs, as a strange power gathered within him. He didn't know what that power was, or what it was doing around him, but its promise was seductive.

He could use it, destroy that which took Mother away. Destroy everything and sate the fury building in his body.

The promise to destroy his grief.

With a roar, Corrin fell to his knees and began to change. Scale replaced skin, bones cracked and muscle tore asunder while the power blazed around him like unholy light. When it was done, only a strange creature that looked part dragon and part deer stood within the ruined plaza.

A roar shattered the air and the dragon leapt about the plaza, striking at foes only it could see with a wild abandon. The wild charge leveled buildings and tore the road to pieces. Ryoma kept everyone away from the rampaging dragon, instead focusing on his search for Mikoto's killer.

A bolt of brilliant lightning snapped his attention to the edge of the plaza, where Robin had pinned a cloaked figure that, while appearing similar, was not Mikoto's killer. "Avoid Corrin, High Prince! Your quarry lies there, at the entrance to the main road!"

Ryoma followed the advice and charged for the main road, Robin's word proving true. Roaring his anger at the killer, Ryoma charged with Raijinto ablaze. The figure met the charge with a slash, Ryoma ducking aside and bringing Raijinto into a chop that cut through the cloak.

The figure laughed and swung with abandon, the wild attacks forcing Ryoma on the defensive.

While this was happening, Olivia had appeared from the rubble and rushed to Mikoto's side, orders flying from her throat. "Anyone with even an ounce of healing ability, tend to the civilians! Lon'qu will keep you safe, just hurry!"

Most of those still standing immediately began to dig through the debris, Lon'qu cutting down three more cloaked figures shortly after they moved to attack the rescuers. Sakura ran towards Olivia, but Hinoka's hand landed on her shoulder, the older princess stoic. "Help the others. There's… there's nothing we can do for Mother now."

Sakura looked ready to cry and it was only Subaki guiding her away that got Sakura moving. Hinoka sighed, ready to cry herself, when she saw Hana with her sword bared and standing behind the rampaging Corrin. "What the hell are you doing?!"

Hana held herself steady, even as a beam of wood landed next to her. "Protecting the people! I won't let that thing get anywhere near them!"

Hinoka looked forlorn, but nodded. The plaza was beginning to fill with soldiers and they'd need a commander. "I'll organize the others, keep an eye out for those cloaked bastards!"

Hana nodded and knocked another plank of wood away. While she was at it, someone showed up behind her. "You know, I'm surprised you called Corrin a thing."

Hana damn near leapt out of her skin, but she kept her focus. "Get out of here, it's dangerous!"

Cordelia shrugged and casually backhanded a boulder into a pile of rubble. "I'm fine, don't worry about that. Again, why call Corrin a thing?"

Hana felt herself stare at the feat of strength before growling. "That… whatever it is… is not Corrin. Corrin is a dense prince with no common sense and a weird sense of humor, not a… deer-lizard."

Cordelia raised a brow before deflecting a chunk of rubble. "I see… thanks for sharing. So you know, I think we're almost done here."

Hana blinked and glanced around just in time to see Ryoma score a killing blow on the thing that started all this, the cloak falling away to reveal… a fog of red-purple smoke?

Before Hana could process that, she saw a flash of blue that turned into Azura, small spheres of water floating around her as she approached the rampaging Corrin.

Ryoma saw it and tried to stop her, but a twister of water sprung to life and blew him away. Azura glanced back at him for a moment, but continued forward, her song filling the air with the glow from her pendant.

Corrin noticed the glow, if the sudden lack of roars meant anything, and lowered his body, seeming to assess whether Azura was a threat. At first, it looked like he was calming down, his motions slowing and jaws closed.

Then he roared and reared back, a clawed hand striking ragged gashes into Azura's body. Azura cried in pain, but was swiftly silenced as Corrin pounced on her and pinned her throat with his claws.

No one heard what came next, the dragon and his prisoner were too far away, but a moment passed silently. Then another…

To the relief of all, the dragon pulled away and freed Azura, a cloud of blue steam rising through the air as it shrunk into the familiar form of Corrin. The prince was sobbing, the sound clear to hear, but Azura made her way forward despite her injuries. "Are… you ok?"

Corrin looked up slowly, tears streaming down his face. "I… what have I done? I hurt you, without wanting to, and the people… ugh!"

Corrin took a look around the plaza, seeing the devastated remnants of a once thriving place and the grim faces of those digging through the rubble.

He felt his stomach lurch, his body turning away as bile burned up his throat. He vomited, Azura leaned beside him and patted his back. "It's not your fault, none of it is. Dragon blood flows through both royal families, but you're the first to have turned into one. It's only natural to lose control over something so new and powerful."

Corrin panted before pointing to the plaza. "Tell that to the people that died. Tell that to the people hurt because of me. Tell that to my siblings. Tell it to Takumi who's coming over here to make us both miserable."

Azura glanced to the right. Indeed, Takumi was stalking towards them with the kind of rage only the truly angered could muster. Thankfully, he was intercepted by Robin.

"What do you think you're doing?" Robin asked the angered prince, holding him in place when Takumi tried to barge through him. "In case you didn't realize, there's a lot of people that need help."

"Out of my way!" Takumi snapped. "It's his fault all this happened! That blade killed Mother, if he hadn't been here, she would still be alive!"

Robin's grip tightened. "What makes you think any of this is his fault? Did Ryoma say something that made it Corrin's fault? Did Corrin swing the blade and cause it to shatter?"

Takumi only growled, so Robin continued. "You are grieving and angry, as anyone would be, but this is not the place to blame someone who is innocent. Corrin is no more responsible for the queen's death than I am. As for Azura, what she done except brought Corrin back to us. Stow your juvenile beliefs on outsiders, they ill-befit your station."

Takumi looked ready to punch him, but Robin conjured lightning around his hand, just enough to excite the nerves. Takumi took the hint and left to cool off.

"A real hot-head that one." Robin sighed. "Get his head out of the propaganda and I'm sure he'll be fine. Now then, I'll let things play out with Yukimura and friends."

Whistling a tune, Robin picked his way through the rubble. It was impressive, if you asked him, to see the famous Yato fly into Corrin's hand after the prince met with the others. It was also amusing to see Takumi's face when it happened. Looked like the kid had swallowed a lemon.

In either case, he reached Olivia's side. "How's she doing?"

"About as well as I can do." Olivia sighed, gesturing to Mikoto's body. "I sealed it just before her soul left, so now I have her in a near-death state. It should hold for a few weeks, but we'd need Lissa to get her back."

Robin nodded, looking over the bubble of glowing water appreciatively. "Too bad we don't have Panne or Libra. They'd fix this in a jiffy."

"It's enough trouble keeping her blood circulating." Olivia muttered. "You have no idea how hard it is to make a self-sustaining cocoon like this. Besides, everything occurs on course like this, especially since I got to her right as she died. That was an argument I'll spare you the details of."

Robin grimaced. Mikoto's soul had originally been taken and enslaved by the mad dragon of Valla, but this intervention prevented that. Frankly, he was glad Olivia was sparing the details; an argument with a mad dragon was no fun.

Cordelia appeared behind them, Theresa already saddled next to her. "Kaze just informed the royals. They've gone off to confront Nohr."

"I'm amazed you got Theresa so fast." Robin muttered as Lon'qu joined them. "But no matter. You lot ready to see if our kids show up?"

Lon'qu nodded, handed tightening on Balmung. "Quite ready. If they're there, things will get ugly."

"Just practice." Olivia replied, levitating Mikoto's body with a wave of her hand. "Or very serious training. I want to see if they've actually learned something here."

Cordelia mounted Theresa. "We may even find Morgan and Lucina. Trouble's as sure to follow them as Severa or the boys."

Robin dusted off his sleeves and cracked his neck. "Let's get the queen somewhere comfortable first. Last thing we need is people asking questions right now."

He nodded to Lon'qu who made the strange sign again before the travelers and queen faded from view, a shocked Orochi the only witness to the disappearing act.

"What the…?"

-Border of Hoshido-

"What the…?"

Severa stared at the clear divide between the lands with sheer disbelief. All across the ground, a flawless line divided the patchy ground of Nohr from the luscious fields of Hoshido. Not one blade of grass grew over that line.

Not one.

"Quite the sight." Camilla mused next to Severa, her wyvern silently awaiting orders. "That barrier the queen set up is the cause of it. Keeps anything with a will to fight from crossing, even plants."

Severa sighed through her nose, pushing the odd sight to the back of her mind. "What are we doing here, milady? The barrier's still here, we can't cross."

She gestured behind her where the whole host of Nohr's forces waited. From knights to cavaliers and regular soldiers, the army waited in formation for some unclear signal. Severa spotted Xander at the head alongside Inigo and his other retainer, a bloodthirsty woman named Peri.

"King's orders, dear." Camilla answered, silently watching the skies. Wyverns patrolled every last air current, a silver one marking Beruka's path through the dark air.

Severa sighed and looked back again. Among the healers rode Elise, the young princess chatting with anyone willing to talk. She seemed to enjoy talking with two in particular, one a large knight in black armor while the other was a blonde woman in berserker gear.

Effie and Arthur seemed to know them, too. How curious.

Severa's thoughts came to an end as a shiver ran down her spine. The entire army seemed to straighten as well, the air in front of them shimmering to reveal a veil of gentle white dividing the lands.

Before their eyes, the barrier began to disintegrate.

"So it's done." Leo muttered, cantering up to Camilla's side with Niles and Owain close behind. "I don't know if I should be impressed or appalled."

Severa felt appalled if you asked her. While the plan, which she'd heard from Morgan, was strategically brilliant, it also called for a distressing amount of collateral damage.

Regardless, she marched forward with the army as the veil dissipated. Everyone continued to march, even as they set foot on the lush grass, so it looked like the barrier was well and truly gone.

"If anything good comes from this," Leo muttered, "it'll be the end of the Faceless."

Severa nodded absently. Camilla had long taken to the air, so she was accompanying the prince. "That's fine by me. Hate those ugly dastards."

She spotted a smirk on his face. "Agreed."

No further conversation was forthcoming, so Severa fell back until she was in line with Lucina and Morgan. Most of the soldiers had been skeptical about Theresa's inclusion in the invasion, being a Pegasus and all, but Xander endorsed horse and rider. That shut everyone up.

"I have a bad feeling about this." Lucina whispered when Severa fell in step with them. "We've been with you a couple weeks now, but what if your parents are there?"

Severa grimaced, but Morgan spoke first. "Selena here will be in for one hell of a 'training session'. Even more so if Inigo's parents or our in-laws are there."

"That's why you agreed to help." Severa reminded her. "But we don't stand a chance if it's Aunt Lissa. If it is, we may as well accept our fate."

Lucina chuckled. "That's pessimistic of you, but I can't deny it. Actually, you know what I'm wondering? Why are Felicia and Flora with us?"

"Xander, from what I heard." Morgan answered. "Wanted them to come with as extra healers or something. Personally, I think he believes Corrin'll show up and seeing those two would be a good bit better than an army."

Severa grunted. "I swear, if they pushed Flora and him together any harder, they'd fuse. I know she's Corrin's best friend, but seriously?"

"She does love him." Lucina reminded. "I didn't sit through all those therapy sessions with her for nothing. The problem is he can't take a damn hint. Kind of like Owain and Morgan."

Morgan huffed and sent a glance at Owain's back. "Don't remind me. Took years for him to notice, but I'm glad personally. Now if I could convince him to get out of those awful robes…"

"Shut up you horny minx." Severa snapped, though there was no heat in the jab. "I'm still amazed I'm not an aunt yet, with your version of stress-relief."

Morgan smirked at her. "Says the screamer. You don't think we put you two in a separate clearing for no good reason right?"

Severa's scowl deepened, but Lucina got between them. "Girls, calm down, we may be facing mutual doom in less than two days. Let's not kill each other before that happens, ok?"

The sisters pouted and looked away, Lucina smiling helplessly. She suspected it would be an interesting two days.

As it turned out, they weren't. The Hoshidan border they entered led to nothing but leagues and leagues of lush fields that the horses feasted on with relish, not another soul in sight. The camp was filled with chatter about the difference in atmosphere and how much easier it was to sleep on the Hoshidan grass compared to Nohr's bare ground.

Beyond that, the plans proceeded smoothly. It wasn't until the afternoon of the third day that they met resistance.

In the form of a truly grand Hoshidan army.

Severa let out a whistle at the sight. "That is impressive. So many in so short a time."

"Hoshido does not lack for logistics." Camilla sighed from her wyvern, taking a break from patrols for now. "Or resources. Considering it's their land, it'll be a hard fight."

Severa nodded, eyes on the sky. It looked like Theresa wasn't there, so that was good.

"Selena!" A voice called, Inigo jogging up to her. "Lord Xander wants Lucina, Morgan, and Odin to join up at the front. He has something he wants to ask."

Severa frowned before looking to Camilla. A nod gave her permission and Severa followed Inigo through the preparing troops, dodging a rushing Arthur and several knights before they arrived at the front.

Xander looked up from his maps and nodded at the pair. "Good, thank you for coming. I wanted to ask you if you'd join me and my siblings at the front of the line. I'm hoping to resolve this before blood is shed, but as you can see, that's unlikely."

"No offense, Prince Xander," Lucina began," but that time has passed. You should know they wish for Nohrian blood."

Xander sighed and pushed his hair back. "I know. Were I them, I'd wish the same. My hope is that you would… demonstrate your power, hopefully dissuade them from attacking, perhaps encourage negotiation."

Lucina and Morgan blinked and looked to their friends. Inigo and Owain were clearly uncertain, but Severa looked thoughtful. "No killing, right? Just a demonstration?"

At Xander's nod she hummed. "Well… can't hurt to try. Personally, I like this lot back here, the less that die the better. Besides, no one likes the bloodthirsty idiots, no offense to Peri, it's probably better for us to at least try."

Lucina sighed alongside Morgan. "Very well, we'll give it a shot."

"Don't be surprised if it doesn't work." Morgan added. "But we'll leave the next part to you."

Xander nodded and fixed his armor. "Good, then let's do it. Everyone's nearly in position, but better to try now before someone gets impatient."

He turned and mounted his steed, the great horse snorting. Morgan dashed off and grabbed Theresa before joining the group and setting out.

The soldiers parted before them, all professional grace and stoicism, until Xander stood at the front of the Nohrian army. Leo and Camilla joined them a moment later, just behind Xander and in line with the retainers.

"Hoshido!" Xander called, his voice booming over the field. "I do not wish to spill blood today, nor any day after this! Who speaks for you that we may parley?"

The Hoshidan army rumbled in answer, weapons appearing in soldiers' hands.

"Do not attack!" Xander called again. "We seek a peaceful resolution to this, but we will retaliate if provoked!"

Silence answered him.

"Very well," Xander scoffed. "Maybe a demonstration will cool your heads!"

He nodded and Lucina stepped forward, breath misting. Falchion came forth and entered the earth, a large portion of the field freezing instantly. The Hoshidans rumbled, soldiers backing away in alarm, before Morgan thrust Gungnir forward and a cloud of burning embers sizzled on the ice.

"Not the most impressive sight." Leo muttered. "But I think they got the message."

Then he noticed the Ylisseans had frozen. "What's gotten into you?"

"Get… the hell… back." Owain said, striding forward and placing himself before Leo. "None of you can face what's coming."

Inigo did the same for Xander while Severa placed herself before Camilla, each pale and clammy. "Damn, why are there four of them?"

Severa growled at Inigo's question. "Just thank Naga it's not Lissa. We can actually do something here."

Xander grew more confused before his gaze was drawn to something in the cloud of embers and steam.

Namely, what looked like four figures walking through it? Who in their right mind walks through steam and embers? It would scald them alive.

"You know," A voice called over the field. "This was the last place we expected to find you."

The voice carried a weight to it that thrummed through the air like a thunderstorm.

"Then again," Another called, this one promising rage like an inferno. "Trouble has always followed you."

Another rang over the air, as unyielding as the tides. "So here we are, almost two years after hearing from any of you. Do you have any idea how worried we were?"

"You will be punished." The fourth voice said, this one hiding a demon's edge. "So… at least put up a fight."

An unearthly wind howled across the plains, dispersing the cloud of steam and ash. It seemed all too innocent, four humans who stood between the armies, but those voices had to come from somewhere.

Unease began to spread soon after, the Ylisseans with Nohr stepped forward as one. Each stood in line with the other, a unified front before the four.

"Well," Severa drawled, "I didn't think we'd experience such a time difference. If it makes it easier on us, Moro matched the time streams."

Robin smirked at her. "As if. It's good news. But that doesn't excuse anything."

"Show us something new," Cordelia added, hair beginning to flicker. "Or you won't be sitting right for a couple months."

Severa sighed and looked to her friends. "They're going full bore. May as well."

Inigo looked beyond shaken, but he gulped and nodded. Owain did the same, followed by Lucina and Morgan.

"Oh, you're going to help?" Olivia asked, her eyes beginning to shine. "Well, that makes this fun. Lots of collateral though, so let's get changed and down to business."

"You make that sound so much worse than it is." Lon'qu muttered, staring a hole through Inigo.

Both armies were watching the exchange with nothing short of incredulous amazement. After all, how often do you see a great stand-off between two nations get upstaged by nine people?

The answer: only when those nine are something else. Literally.

The parents went first, if only because seniority rules. Robin dissolved to ash and formed into his wolf construct, Cordelia caught fire and grew her wings, Lon'qu added his arms and tripled in size, while Olivia brought up the rear by ripping the water out of a nearby river and using it to form the body of her eel.

Needless to say, many jaws hit the ground.

The kids were not impressed.

Morgan started them off by practically melting into Theresa, the mount and rider fusing into one behind a cloud of burning ash. This ash cleared a moment later to reveal Morgan covered in burning metal, red eyes glaring from the metal skull which had replaced her head. Wings of ash-colored bone sprouted from the sides of her head, adding to the hell-like eeriness of her figure.

"Damn that's creepy." Lucina muttered. "But no worse than my own."

To prove it, frost advanced over her body before hardening into a steel grey, encasing her in armor of jagged spike and wicked hooks. The frost and ice continued down her arms and legs, forming claws and serrated blades along her limbs. Finally, it enclosed her head, forming a faceless helm with only a single, ice-blue light shining in the middle.

"Your powers are hideous." Inigo groaned. "I'm just glad I don't have to change much."

He tossed his sword into the air, a stream of water flying towards him and condensing behind his back. The water split into four orbs that molded themselves into arms, a copy of his sword appearing in each hand while his armor shifted to white and black robes.

"I think we all look great!" Owain declared. "For legends come in all shapes and sizes! Just look at Noire!"

One of Morgan's wings reached over and slapped him upside the head. Owain grumbled and accessed his own power, his transformation very simple. Purple energy flowed around him before gathering into a glowing font, taking on the indistinct shape of a human with white eyes.

Severa looked to her friends, her parents, and the audience. Everyone was looking at her, every face expecting greatness.

She threw up her hands. "Geez, everyone wants a freak-show all of a sudden! What if I don't want to pull a magic act, huh? What are you gonna do about it?"

A bolt lanced from Robin's form and fried the ground next to her.

"Alright, you made your point! Pushy much?"

Severa scoffed before reaching behind her and tapping her back. A ripping sound filled the air and six black wings erupted from Severa's lower back, equal in size to Cordelia's. Purple and black lightning crackled around her as her body darkened, armor sinking into the inky abyss of her skin along with her clothes. A moment later, four eyes appeared above her own, each a different color, the horns of a bull bursting from her skull.

Severa gave a wicked grin, teeth turned to fangs, and she held up a hand where black energy arced between the gaps. "Well? I think I pull this off nicely."

Everyone stared at her, shocked into silence. Even Robin, who'd heard about her project, felt the need to say something. "That… is terrifying."

"Sweety, are you ok?" Cordelia asked, flames dimming in concern. "I can kind of understand Morgan over there, but this is a bit much."

Severa's grin slipped away, suddenly very self-conscious. "C-can we get on with this please? It's embarrassing getting stared at like this."

"Are you sure she's not my daughter?" Olivia asked, voice echoing from the eel. "We're certainly shy."

Lon'qu slapped all three of his foreheads. "Screw this; I'm taking us to the battlefield. The rest of you, go about your business. This is a family matter."

Two of his hands made a strange seal and the fantastical beings were gone.

All the two armies could do were blink, take deep breaths, and pretend it never happened.

Corrin, for his part, was laughing all the while. He knew the four he'd met were rather batty, but that took the cake!

The scene proceeded from there as Morgan predicted. Hoshido would not parley, someone on Nohr's side got impatient, and the battle was on. Corrin found himself backing up his siblings as Ryoma charged off to fight Xander, but soon found himself in an unenviable position.

Stuck between two impassioned families who wouldn't take no for an answer.

Something hit him then, as time slowed in his mind. This was just like those dreams he'd had, where both of his families ended up fighting and wanting him to choose one over the other. The demons and gods in the dreams were there too, though the river of light still made no sense.

His gaze went beyond the families, eyes finding three people within the chaos.

There was Flora, somehow on the battlefield supplying emergency aid.

There was Hana, dueling three men at once and winning.

The there was Azura, watching him silently from a short distance away.

Déjà vu, no?

What I wouldn't give for Lilith right now. If… if nothing else, I'd rather none suffer because of me. If that means I have to make them listen… so be it.

"I side with neither." Corrin whispered, just loud enough for the families to hear. "Xander… you helped raise me alongside Leo, Camilla, and Elise. That is something I cannot replace."

Xander appeared pleased, Ryoma began to frown.

"However," Corrin continued, "I cannot turn against my blood family, either. I've known them only a short time, compared to my time in Nohr, but they are family to me too."

He looked up, desperation clear in his eyes. "Please, just listen! Put away the swords, find a peaceful solution, I know it can happen!"

Xander appeared to contemplate the idea before his eyes hardened. "Corrin… I appreciate what you're attempting, but a neutral stance is impossible! If I must show you that truth, then I will do so on my honor as your brother!"

Ryoma growled, Raijinto crackling. "Not while I still draw breath! He's here with his family after being stolen from us! I won't let him be taken again!"

Corrin watched in despair as they began to fight again. What was he to do?

"Corrin," Azura whispered as she walked up. "We need to do something to get their attention. Any idea what might make them focus on us?"

Corrin felt his eyes drift to the Yato. "We… should take down the ones closest to us, I think. Maybe that will get their attention. If not… well, I have a Plan B."

Azura had a feeling Plan B stood for Plan Bad. "Then let us set to work. Come!"

Corrin wasn't sure where Azura had gotten the gold and white lance from, but it was beautiful to behold. In fact, he was so distracted by both the spear and his own thoughts, he didn't notice two people run up to him. "Lord Corrin!"

Corrin blinked and turned to find Flora and Felicia smiling at him, Flora looking ready to tackle him. "Felicia, Flora… what are you doing here?"

"looking for you!" Felicia cried, a big smile on her face. "Flora, uh, can't stay. She's got to stick with the healers, that whole contract thing we told you about."

Corrin blinked before the memory returned. "Oh, right. I'm glad to see you, Flora, even if you can't stay."

"I'm a far better maid than soldier anyway." Flora answered; smile smaller than her sister's. "I'm simply overjoyed to see you healthy."

Corrin glanced around, the sounds of battle making his head ring. "Healthy is relative, but I'm glad regardless. Stay safe, alright, I don't want to lose any one else to stubborn beliefs."

Flora nodded, but stepped close to him, voice a ghost. "Milord… when this is over, I'll find you again. I have something I need to say."

Corrin blinked, but felt his eyes widen as Flora pressed her lips to his cheek in a light peck. Before that could process, the maid wished him luck and sped back into the Nohrian forces, swiftly disappearing amongst black steel.

Felicia looked grandly amused, but Azura's cleared throat grabbed their attention. "While that was fascinating, can we begin? The sooner this is done, the better."

Corrin nodded before pointing to the Hoshidan side. "Azura, Felicia, can you take care of Ryoma's commander? I know how Xander's general fights, it'll be quick."

And it was. Corrin ran circles around the Nohrian general, Yato proving its legendary status by cutting through the man's armor with ease. Once he was down, the Nohrian forces pulled off their assault and waited for their next orders. In turn, Xander stopped attacking and ushered the Nohrian royals to safety.

Azura swiftly proved to be skilled with her lance. With Felicia providing support at range, Azura flowed around the Hoshidan commander's strikes and sent him to the dirt with little trouble. In fact, she caught many admiring gazes with her strikes, her movements made her appear to dance.

Sadly, even with both sides pulled back from the fighting, Xander and Ryoma were a mess of emotion and bull-headed zeal. Corrin could've strapped his words to a hammer and smacked them with it, but it would've done no good.

So, they had no choice but to flee. It was by luck the cavalry and sky knights were too busy to pursue them, but it was harrowing hearing the thunder of boots behind them for almost three leagues. It wasn't until they reached the edge of the Bottomless Canyon that Azura, and by extension Corrin and Felicia, began to relax.

"Somehow, we got away." Azura sighed, not winded in the slightest.

Felicia was panting, not used to going so far so fast. "How… are you so calm? Two armies were after us!"

"But they kept fighting each other." Corrin answered, voice heavy with sadness. "We should count ourselves fortunate, even if our homes now call us traitors."

Felicia frowned, but had no words to console him. Instead, she watched as Azura placed a hand on his shoulder and guided him to the edge of the canyon. "As you say, there is no safe place on this continent for us… so we must leave."

Corrin and Felicia stared at her. Azura sighed and moved to the very precipice of the canyon. "I know that you may believe it impossible, but there is a way to get away. There's… something, in the Bottomless Canyon. If we fall, it'll take us away from here."

Felicia clearly thought that was mad, her gaping mouth said as much, but Azura ignored her and stepped onto the rickety bridge crossing the canyon.

Corrin felt compelled to follow, if only to pull her back, so Felicia did as well. Disbelief filled them both as Azura ducked under the rope, stood at the edge of the canyon, looked back to them, and sighed. "Please… trust me."

And she fell.

Corrin ran after her immediately, both his hands and Felicia's flying out to try and catch her. Instead, they missed and lost their balance as a heavy weight rammed into their backs.

"Got you, you bastards!"

Oh, that was Hana's voice. Corrin wondered why she was here of all places, it had to be because of Sakura, but he couldn't ponder it further.

Falling to your death tended to do that.

Corrin didn't remember much from the fall, only that he and his compatriots were screaming their lungs out while Azura remained criminally calm when they caught up to her. Beyond that, he saw only blackness until he woke up.

To find one shell-shocked Azura and a devastated plain, part of which folded up into the air in direct defiance of common sense.

"What happened?" Azura whispered, eyes darting about. "T-This doesn't make sense! Valla was pristine when I was last here, what happened?!"

Felicia and Corrin had other questions. "Where are we?!"

Corrin didn't get an answer before he found himself straddled, his shoulders grabbed, and a very angry Hana appeared before him. "What the hell was that, you bastard! First you make me leave Lady Sakura behind because she demanded I chase after you and now we fall into a damn pit! What are you gonna do about it, huh? How are you going to make it up to Lady Sakura and get us out of here!?"

Corrin couldn't answer, Hana was shaking him too much, so Azura went first. "We… are in a place called Valla. It is a kingdom sealed by a curse that kills all whom speak of it beyond its territory. None, save I, knew of it before I brought you here, as the canyon is one of its entry points. As you might imagine, any who fall do not leave after they come here."

Hana stopped shaking Corrin, allowing him to breathe. "Wait, then that means we're trapped?!"

Azura shook her head. "No, I know of several exit points. The problem is the local residents, they don't like outsiders. Well, I say that, but…"

She gestured to the land, blasted and scoured like a fire had blazed across it. "I don't think we'll need to worry about them for now."

Corrin recovered himself and stood, looking around in awe. "Man… even with all the destruction, it's so beautiful. What I wouldn't give for the others to see this, especially Lilith. She always did want to see a blue sky."

"I'm glad you remembered." Lilith answered, popping into existence and scaring the life out of everyone. "But I think we should go. The intruders that did this were taken care of, they'll be on us before long."

Corrin smiled at the little dragon. "Great timing, Lilith! Though… you should probably explain things quick."

Lilith blinked before looking to see Felicia gaping at her and Hana with her blade drawn. "I suppose so…"

-A Quick Explanation Later-

"Oh you're so cute, Lilith!"

Felicia had started cuddling Lilith shortly after she finished explaining her state. Lilith tried to escape the hold, but Hana swiftly displayed a love of cute things that was very new to Corrin and joined the cuddle.

It wasn't until Lilith started to lift off the ground that they let go.

"Anyway," Lilith coughed, glad to be free. "I can take you somewhere safe. It'll take us out of Valla and let us rest. Just, uh, be aware, it's a bit of a mess."

No one got to answer before a flash of light took them away, an arrow slamming into the ground where Felecia had only just been standing a bare second later. No one knew that, thankfully, but the place they went to was, as Lilith said, a mess.

It was doubtlessly a beautiful castle, with waterways snaking through it and well cared-for grass and tall walls. The problem was the sheer amount of water lying all over the place, what looked like grand infernos burning outside, rolling thunderclouds overhead, and large chunks missing from the wall that looked like they'd been carved out by a blade. Oh, and lots of ice.

"Man was it a light show earlier today." Lilith said as they looked around. "I felt you guys pop into the canyon shortly after everything stopped exploding, so I haven't had a chance to clean up."

Corrin blinked before he spotted a familiar face. "…Mr. Robin?"

The man in question looked up, hair standing on end with lots of bandages tied around him and his clothes singed. "Hey, so we did end up here! Man, you guys missed one hell of a show! I'm so proud of my kids, they did great!"

As Robin proceeded to sing the praises of his children, Corrin felt himself sigh.

"Great, we have the nuts here too."

Ch. End

I think that's the best place to stop today. I really wanted to add the big fight between parents and kids, but it felt too tacked on whenever I tried to start it. I will show it next chapter, as they explain what happened to the MyCastle, but 10k+ words is enough for one day.

Hope everyone enjoyed the kid's transformations. I was going for a mixture of parents when thinking on the forms, so I think they went well.

Anyway, reviews next then we'll wrap this up.

SilverStorm0: I enjoy writing insane antics, they make me laugh. Hopefully there's enough humor this time, I did cover some of the serious events today.

Guest: That's very kind of you, hope you enjoy!

That's all I got. Hope everyone enjoys the chapter!