Epilogue

Two weeks after the fall of Meridia's capital, a conference was held to discuss an official peace treaty. Trine was chosen to host the meeting. Your entire group was in attendance - the arrival of Cynbel and Harrow was a pleasant surprise.

Unused to the battlefield of politics, you spent most of your time observing from the background. You could sense there were a lot of subtle undercurrents you were missing, lots of careful maneuvering and discussions about specific terms. You tried your best to keep up, but the constant stream of unnecessarily long words wore you down. Despite your best efforts, you ended up dozing off more often than not.

During the negotiations, Paen brought up the establishment of a laguz sanctuary in Sefa forest. The motion was passed with little opposition, with Valeria and Meridia recognizing its establisment. Valeria requested the right to build a fort on the forest's north border, but Paen refused. In exchange, he offered to let a small garrison remain in fort Gagar, as well as offering a slight lowering of import tariffs against Valerian silver, so long as some minimum amount was met.

By the time negotiations were done, everyone seemed to be in a foul mood. Paen and Saul still closed the final meeting with a handshake. In the end, Meridia was allowed to remain as an independent nation, though Carcina and Valeria would have the right to observe their future council meetings. Valeria and Carcina agreed to stronger economic ties and looser border restrictions.

You were glad to see everything go well, but you were also more than a bit sad. This could be the last time you see everyone in one place - or at all. And there's also the question of where you're going from here... But, for now, you should bid everyone farewell.

Rowan: Impaled by a Risen in chapter 4x: Into Light

Rain: Nurturing Knight
"Be well, June, and make sure you take care of that hatchet! Oh... And good luck with Paen. You're going to need it!"

Holland: Beard of Justice
"Next time you're in Antea, make sure you stop by the training grounds! I'm sure you could show our recruits a thing or two!"

Rain was reassigned to Antea, and was placed in charge of training the new pegasus knights. She was beloved as a tough but caring mentor. Praven decided it was time to return the Fire Emblem to its rightful heir, and left it in her care. Holland returned to his duties as the head of training infantry. He was always known for two things: his jovial nature and his massive beard. Together, the pair raised new generation of Holy Knights as if they were their own children.

Bud: Gentle Giant
"Ya'll aren't coming back to Hearthstone with us? Well... Good luck, wherever you end up! You're always welcome to visit!"

Wendy: Friend to Animals
"You did really well, for a farm girl... Make sure you take care of Marth, alright? He's earned a good rest, too."

Haley: Winged Blur
"June! This isn't the last time we'll see each other, right? Promise to come visit soon!"

Ferris: Weary Watcher
"Man, I'm exhausted. Let's enjoy a nice break, yeah?"

Bud returned to Hearthstone. The money June gave him went a long way to creating a small but bustling village. Wendy stayed at his side, leaving her position as a Holy Knight. Instead, she supported them by raising and training both horses and pegasi for their use. Haley kept her promise and joined Wendy, taking on a new life as a farmer. She helped anywhere she could, but found her calling making deliveries and negotiating with merchants. Ferris spent his days napping in the fields, watching the grass grow, and loving his wife. He decided the farm life suited him much better than mercenary work.

Lane: Fell from her mount in chapter 6: Invasion

Alyssa: Shade of Voluth
"They didn't make things easy on us, but it looks like things can finally start getting back to normal."

Jessup: Anxious Healer
"It's over... right? We don't have to fight any more?"

Syrene: Shy Survivor
"I'm... sure our path will to- cross again."

Agni: Flame in the Darkness
"I must thank you again for putting up with us. I am very grateful. Be well."

Alyssa, Jessup, Syrene, and Agni eventually managed to scrape together enough money to start an orphanage. After the Risen disaster, they found dozens of children in need of a home. Their halls were always alive with the sounds of children. Alyssa made sure no bandits ever came close, while Jessup took care of comforting the children in their times of need. Syrene slowly managed to work through her stammer and became a mother figure to many. Agni ensured all the children received a strong education. Every year, Jessup, Syrene, and Alyssa would journey to the ruins of Voluth.

Dan: Loyal Traitor
"Well... I guess we're done here. I'm heading back to Tartan, but I suspect I'll see you again soon."

Claudia: Pale Shadow
"I know we didn't always get along, but I'm glad you were around."

Dan was promoted to the king's personal guard. With Claudia's tutelage, he slowly adapted to court life. He took Shard out to fly whenever he could. Claudia continued to protect Paen with her life, but learned to rely on the rest of his guard and enjoy her time off.

Walt: Zealous Klutz
"We won in the end, but we lost some good people along the way. We must never forget their sacrifice."

Taika: Archsage-in-Training
"As much as I enjoy travelling, I can't wait to get back to Terranus. If you're ever around, stop by, alright?"

Walt was preparing to resign as a knight, but was assigned to escort Taika and Praven back to Terranus. He was told to remain until he received further orders. Eventually, he worked up the courage to propose to Taika; his carefully planned proposal was ruined by a sudden sandstorm. Taika eventually took up the mantle of Archsage and oversaw the training of several young mages, including her daughter.

Jayce: Easygoing Sentinel
"Well, I guess this is it. I'm off to explore the world. Maybe I'll see you if I ever visit home again?"

Jayce left the Holy Knights. He spent his savings to purchase his horse, Joker, and the pair of them disappeared over the horizon. He wandered the world, taking odd jobs to keep himself fed, before finally settling down in a small village in Regna Ferox.

John: Sheltered Monk
"The monsters have been purged, and our countrymen are safe. I'd say we've earned some relaxation."

Mary: Guardian of Sefa
"It's so nice to be rid of that accursed book! I feel so much... lighter. Well... I guess it's time to head back to the forest. Goodbye, June!"

Mary took up the mantle of Guardian of the Forest. Slowly, laguz began to make their homes their. Mary proved herself capable of dealing with both the monsters of the forest and the beorc outside, creating a true sanctuary. John visited as often as he could, eventually choosing to remain in the growing village to spread the word of Naga.

Vine: Overwhelmed by Risen in chapter 12: Dead of Night

Fumiko: Spirit of the Forest
"My, that was tough. We all lost so much, but don't forget all the things we gained, as well. New experiences, new friendships..."

Doran: Haphazard Tactician
"You did well, June. Best mercenary I've ever hired. It's a shame to lose you, but you've got your own life to live."

Doran was offered Horatio's former position as advisor to the the archbishop, but he declined, choosing to remain as the commander of the Trine garrison. He organized raid after raid against bandit camps, keeping the destruction in the wake of the Risen disaster at a minimum. Fumiko made a new home in Trine. She spent her time hunting and teaching others the way of the forest. She visited Sefa often - she always considered Mary her eldest child.

Charon: Brazen Dancer
"Over already? It's for the best, I know, but I am going to miss travelling with all these beautiful ladies!"

Charon returned to his life as a travelling dancer, eventually forming his own troupe. He gained fame and infamy in equal measures, breaking hearts around the world.

Cynbel: Homebound Warrior
"Er... I was expecting that last goodbye to be... well... goodbye. So, goodbye. Again."

Harrow: Forsaken Priestess
"It's nice to see everyone one last time. Know that, though we part ways here, we always have a bond."

Cynbel was considered a traitor by some and a hero by others. He slowly rose through the ranks to gain command of a small fort on the coast. Though it was clear the higher-ups were just trying to get him out of the way, he was happy. He had his beautiful countryside, and his beautiful wife. Harrow remained by Cynbel's side, eventually becoming a healer in Meridia's army.

Charlotte: Miraculous Survivor
"June... You made... the r-right decision..."

Saul: Beloved Bishop
"Goodbye, June, and thank you for everything. You'll always have a home here in Valeria, no matter where you choose to go from here."

Saul oversaw the reconstruction of Antea; in the aftermath of the devastation from the Risen, his gentle nature stood as a beacon to his people. Charlotte slowly recovered, eventually regaining stern composure she was known for and reclaiming her position as the head of the Holy Knights. The pair turned out to compliment each other perfectly, and Valeria recovered quickly under their guidance. When they declared their intention to step down and marry, public outcry forced the council to allow their union.

Rosalin: Reformed Pirate
"Har! I've spent enough time on this dirtball island. It's time to get me sea legs back! Good luck to ya, lass!"

Cecil: Wizened Mercenary
"So, what next? I think I'll see where the wind takes me from here... And yourself?"

Rosalin returned to the seas, putting her pirate days behind to make a legitimate living as a trader. Cecil, with his mercenary group disbanded, decided he may as well join her. The two led a simple, but happy, life. They feared neither rouch waters nor pirate attacks, gaining a reputation as the most dangerous ship on the sea.

Praven: Venerable Teacher
"I'm so tired... All I want is to go home and see my children one last time. Goodbye, June, and farewell."

Praven returned to Terranus with a small treasure trove of ancient and valuable weapons, restoring them to his order's vaults. In addition to the Fire Emblem, he left the second copy of the Goetia behind. Of all the mages Praven had sent out on their journeys, only half returned alive. Though Praven was overjoyed at their survival, his heart was heavy for those who had not. After promoting the survivors to sages and naming his successor, Praven passed away in his sleep.

Zephyr: Energetic Lagomorph
"So, where are you going now? If you're going to wander around, I'm definitely up for a bit more wandering!"

Sherry: Ambitious Rookie
"So? How'd I do? It's a good thing you had me, right?"

Sherry returned to her position in the town guard, eventually working her way up the ranks to captain. Most of her subordinates came to fear her quick temper, but those close to her knew it hid a softer side. Zephyr became the first laguz to enlist in the Carcinan army, though his lack of discipline was always a problem. The pair saw each other frequently, and eventually had a child.

Drake: Free Flame
"I guess I should thank you again. If it weren't for you, I'd be... Well. You know."

Drake began to search for his tribe. After two years, he finally gave up and retired to Sefa. A few years later, a small group of manakete arrived searching for a fire dragon rumored to be living in Sefa forest.

Paen: Dark King
"So, where will you go from here? You did promise to spend some time with me after all was said and done..."

June: Daughter of Spring

After saying her farewells, June returned to Tartan with Paen. She stayed in the castle as a special guest, spending her free time helping to repair the damage the city received in the fighting, helping the city guard deal with bandits, and studying politics. Paen returned to court and began the painful process of rebuilding a wounded country. He made sure to spend as much of his free time as he could with June, whether hunting, sparring, or just wandering the city. Eventually, the nobles began whispering about all the attention he was giving a "low-born Valerian," but Paen paid them no mind, shielding June from the worst of their complaints.

8 months later

You stand outside the throne room, and Claudia helps you check your dress one final time. You take a deep breath. Through the doors, you can hear the fanfare begin. A pair of decorated knights push the grand doors open wide, and you stride forward. You clutch the bouquet in your hands and try to appear much more confident than you feel. If you can deal with an army of undead monstrosities trying to cut you down, how could the stares of a few snooty nobles harm you?

You scan the room quickly, looking for anyone you know. For the most part, it's a sea of unfamiliar faces. You manage to pick a few people out of the crowd. Rain and Holland managed to take a week's leave to come. Doran as well, though you notice Fumiko's abscence - she's probably helping Mary. Sherry and Zephyr managed to find seats near the back, and you notice the lords and ladies giving Zephyr a wide berth. Dan stands guard along the aisle, along with several other members of the king's guard. Haley waves enthusiastically as you pass by, while Ferris gives you a smile. You're a bit disappointed Bud couldn't come, but he - and several others - were too busy starting their new lives. He did send you a hearty congratulations, as well as a black bridal veil adorned with the feathers of a dark pegasus. Your father's also not here to give you away... You thought you'd made peace with his death, but you still feel a tinge of sadness.

Your eyes lock on the two figures standing before the throne. Paen is wearing a set of ornamental black armor, adorned with the face of an obsidian dragon with ruby eyes anywhere one could fit, complete with a crimson trim. A small, black crown is seated on his head. The second man is some minister or adviser - you never fully understood his title. You only met him a few days ago when he began drilling you on the wedding ceremony. You focus only on Paen, and ignore the whispers running through the crowd. He gives you a confident smile as you approach.

You reach the makeshift altar and stand opposite Paen. He gives you a subtle nod, and the two of you turn to face the minister. He confidently addresses the crowd. "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to bear witness to the union of King Paen of Tartan to Lady June of Hearthstone. If anyone present has any objections to this ceremony..."

From the corner of your eye, you see a handful of the more vocal nobles rise angrily, clearly prepared to make one final protest to the king's choice.

"Then you're free to leave," the minister concludes. Looks like he made a few last-minute changes to the speech, you note. The figures stand stunned for a moment. Most of them quietly return to their seat, but one makes a show of storming into the aisle indignantly. You and Paen half-turn to watch. The man - a minor duke - looks like he's about to make a statement when Claudia's hand grips his shoulder. With a smile, she forcefully spins him around and begins to parade him out the door. You stare in stunned silence, but Paen gives a slight chuckle and turns back to the minister.

The minister clears his throat. "Erm... Right, then. Where were we...? Ah, yes. King Paen. Do you take this woman to be your wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"

"I do," Paen answers without hesitation.

"And you, Lady June. Do you take this man to be your husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, until death do you part?"

"I do," you answer, trying to stop your voice from shaking.

"Do you vow to serve and lead the people of Carcina to the best of your abilities?"

"I do."

"And, to that end, will you renounce all titles granted by foreign powers and swear to live as a citizen of Carcina?"

"I will."

"Then, I now pronounce you man and wife! You may kiss the bride," the minister concludes.

You turn to Paen, and he takes a step closer. You answer his approach, leaning forward and embracing him lightly. He lifts your veil without hesitation, leaning down slightly to kiss you. You feel yourself blushing - this isn't the first time, but with so many people watching... When his lips meet yours, all your worries fade into the background, and you simply enjoy the moment.

When the world starts coming back into focus, you're aware of the crowd once again. Paen takes your hand, and you both turn to face the audience. Paen smiles wide as the onlookers cheer. You try to keep your composure, but you realize you're grinning like a fool. The minister steps forward, his hands raised to call for silence. He takes you and Paen by the shoulders, and leads you towards the balcony. The minister steps out ahead of you, addressing the crowd of people below. As he waits for the cheers to subside, he pulls a small crown from his robe, made to match Paen's but fitted for your head. "Ladies and gentlemen," he begins, "I present to you King Paen and his wife, Queen June of Carcina!" He steps behind you, removing your veil and replacing it with the crown. Disorganized cheers erupt from the crowd.

Paen continues to smile broadly, not saying a word as he waves triumphantly to the crowd. You raise your hand hesitantly, still clutching your bouquet, unused to this sort of adoration. "You'll get used to it," Paen assures you quietly.

You smile and nod. "I hope so. This is completely overwhelming," you admit. With that, you throw the bundle of black roses over the railing into the gathering below. Surprised, no one moves at first, then a group of young women rush to catch the falling flowers.

"You realize you were supposed to throw that at the reception later?" Paen asks. "Your first day on the job, and already making an enemy of the upper class."

"Oh... Whoops..."

"Don't sweat the ceremony," Paen tells you. "I never have!" With that, he suddenly scoops you up and gives you another kiss. The crowd below erupts into another cheer.

"Long live King Paen! Long live Queen June!"

End of Epilogue

?: "Hm... Horatio's death is unfortunate, but it shouldn't affect our plans in the long-run."
?: "The demon's gone, then?"
?: "Aye, but he already gave us everything we need. We now know what we must do, and the pieces are falling into place. The rest is just a matter of time..."

Afterword

It's been over a year and a half since I started SoS. I couldn't have finished it without all the voters who've been around, but there are a few I need to thank specifically.

Intelligent Systems and Nintendo, for obvious reasons.
Osranger and his story, Out of Darkness, originally inspired me to start writing.
[website blocked] for originally hosting SoS.
[website blocked] for hosting the voting after I decided to move.
Neosephiroth for creating cyoa-verse, as well as for being a long-time voter.

A sequel to SoS is in the works! It will be set 22 years after the end of SoS, and follow June's children - her son Rand and her daughter Lily. How much can the world change in a single day? I hope you'll join me in Age of Destruction. Once again, I'll run the voting on [website blocked], then make an archive of it over here on FFnet.