Shout Outs...
AccessBlade: Thank you. I had that one written up for a while, truth be told. I just haven't found a spot for it until now.
Cloud Link Zero (AKA CLZ): Interesting idea, but rather than disarm how about throw? As in judo throw; minimal damage, but disables for a turn?
patattack: Thanks.
kenegi: Haven't played FE9, so can't comment.
chm01: War Master? That sounds like an awesome class name. And while he does use weapons, note he says 'when on the battlefield come ready for a battle.'
GreatLight432: Hadn't noticed until now... Have to change that someday. The thing with Valter was planned out for awhile, although it came out a bit different. As for items like the Hoplon Guard (The Crit stopping item) and Fili Shield I'll write them in when it makes sense to do so, but otherwise I won't. It's like how I ignore the Knight's Crest and other class upgrade items. Instead of a big power up in the middle of battle they're depicted as getting new armour, equipment, weapons and training.
Infinite Freedom: And how'd I toss you for a loop?
Bound for Insanity: Sorry, this one is an Interlude too...
X00001: Thanks.
AquaticSilver: Is this considered soon?
xxAkuxx: Well then, here's more.
GreyDarveloCrestwell: Thanks man. It's still kinda chilly though...
Dieuwtjin: I admit, I do copy it, but it's often changed anytime Tyr gets involved in the conversation. I guess I use it as a jumping off point to note the differences between this story and how Sacred Stones usually go.
Gunlord500: Thanks dude. Sorry I fell from ye olde circle for a bit. And yeah, it could always be worse, LOL.
To Everyone: The next chapter will be an actual chapter. This is to wrap up everything from the end of Chapter XV.
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Interlude: Day of Confession
I once was told 'love is not a war of attrition, but first come first serve. And if you're never brave enough to ask, you are never served.' I listened to it, but I never understood it until the night my heart broke. It was on our second journey to the Dragon's Gate, and I had sought out Lyn's company. I found her speaking with Hector, near the bow of the ship, laughing at the man who smiled, leaning in to taste her lips. The woman I had loved had returned it with greater force. Now I understood what was said, and I feel quite the fool. My heart shall mend, but never forget that sensual Saracen I could have had at my side if only I had not been such a coward.
Tyr: The Fall of Nergal
Despite what you may think by now, I neither hate nor dislike Serra. I find her annoying, yes, but she is a friend and giving when she's in the mood. It was her infatuation with me that troubled me. I have stated I've no desire to romance her and she'd still chase me around allowing me to 'gaze from afar the object of my desires'. She soon dropped it for an infatuation with Oswin, and last I heard they are set to be wed. How this happened is beyond me. I pray any children they have takes after their father in discipline and hair colour.
Tyr: The Fall of Nergal
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"That's it. That's how it's done." Sain said, clapping a bit as the young blonde girl struck a practice dummy with her lance, riding past it on the horse she was on, a brown stallion. "Enough of that, pretty warrior Amelia; I think it's time you've learn the sword too."
"You still can't help yourself huh, My Love?" He heard, Florina walking over, a sword at her hip and smiling widely.
"Ah, it's my curse." Sain admitted, chuckling. "But do know, oh lovely flower, I sometimes have to remind myself flirting takes effort when I'm not with you."
Florina blushed lightly, lowering her eyes. "I know. I'm working on curing that curse." She replied, moving to kiss his cheek. "We will speak later. Go and train the girl."
0-0
Innes watched on as Ross pulled back on the bowstring before letting the next arrow fly, hitting a hand's width from the bull's-eye. "You're aim is improving, but you need to account for the wind more. It's not a heavy hand axe, it's an arrow. The wind affects it more."
"Yes Your Highness." Ross replied, notching another arrow and pulling it back. Adjusting his aim he sent it flying, the arrow hitting two fingers left of the target.
"Much better." Innes said before turning on his heel, to leave.
"Eh? That's it? You're going?" Ross asked.
"You asked me to help you learn the bow." Innes replied, pausing to speak. "I did. For now your best teachers will be practice and experience. My supervision would be pointless."
"Huh." Ross let off as Innes carried on, leaving. "Kinda nice and kind of a jerk at the same time."
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Eirika looked about a bit, smiling at her army as night began to fall. Despite the hardships both before and behind them they looked as ready as ever. Some were getting new weapons and training, others taking the time to relax.
Tana and Cormag had started to learn the sword under Joshua, Natasha watching him nearby with worry. Kyle and Forde had found newer and better armour. Kyle was riding about to get used to it while Forde sat under a tree, putting ink to a page, not writing but drawing.
Rennac had taken Colm aside to give him pointers on picking locks, although the student seemed annoyed at the master. Marisa was sparring with Gerik, she with a pair short, curved swords and he with an axe and shield.
Wallace and Gilliam were chatting loudly, laughing. Dolza and Garcia were also laughing about something she couldn't hear. Neimi and Artur were washing the horses down with water and a brush, Lute hiding nearby for a reason she couldn't guess, writing down notes.
Ephraim was talking with Tana over something before becoming confused as the princess stormed off. Her brother chased after her, oblivious to what she was trying to get across. Ewan was up to some form of mischief and had Tethys chasing after him. All in all they looked productive, peaceful, and even happy.
How long until they rode back to the horror of war?
She sighed and looked about before frowning. Everyone was returning from the town or elsewhere, yet she couldn't find Tyr anywhere. Where could he have gone off to?
She sighed again. "He's probably working himself to death." She concluded before walking to his wagon.
He needed to get out of that wagon more.
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She knocked twice on the wagon's door, knowing the response wouldn't be long.
"Enter." She heard, opening the door.
"And here I thought you were overworking yourself again." She said, smiling as Tyr turned her head to face her, lying on the bed. "Is something the matter? You seem... unwell."
"I am not sick, My Princess." He replied, sighing. "I just spoke with Florina some time ago. It brought up old... thoughts that I'm musing over."
"If it eases you, I would hear it." She said moving to sit by his legs. "I told you once that if you were doubtful or worried to speak with me so I may ease your mind. That still holds, and isn't limited to doubts or worries."
"I'm sorry, My Princess, it's just..." He sighed a bit, closing his eyes. "They are both good memories and sad."
"...Tyrland. You are not telling me everything." Eirika began. "You are not working or overseeing everyone as your usual. You are pushing my worries aside rather than easing them. That is not like you."
"...I apologise, but..." He let off a sigh, biting back old feeling, some that threatened to bring his eyes to tears.
"...Tyrland..." Eirika let off, moving to cup his cheek. "These are not troubling thoughts. They are painful, are they not? Tell me. I will not turn you away. I will ease your hurt. I will dry your tears. If you cry, I have a shoulder to loan. If you weep, I shall hold you. If you speak, I shall listen. Please... I... I only... I just want to help you..."
One tear began to fall.
Then he began to speak; of Lyndis, of his feelings for her, of her wedding to Hector. His told her of his meeting with Florina her confession to him.
All the while she sat, stroking his hair, wiping away any more tears that came.
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It was some time later that Tyr spoke again, sighing before opening his mouth.
"Sorry, I... That is not how I wanted to end up tonight."
"It's alright, Tyrland." Eirika replied as he sat up, moving his legs over the side of the bed. "I am here for you as you have been for me. If anything I should thank you. Those were... those were very deep feelings you shared with me. I am glad you can trust me with them."
"And I suppose I should be glad you're willing to pester them out of me." Tyr replied, smiling back. "In all seriousness though, thank you."
"...If I may ask..." Eirika began softly, looking out the small window of the wagon. "Has another taken you heart since Lyn married?"
"...Um, well-" Anything further was interrupted as the door burst open, Tana rushing in and grabbing Eirika hands.
"Eirika, you have got to come and try this!" She let off before dragging her friend out the door. It took almost half a minute for Tyr to realize what had just happened.
"...Oh, by Elimine's Grace..." Tyr groaned burying his face into his hands. "For once I feel backed into admitting I love someone and this of all things happens!" Sighing once again he stood up and left the wagon, if only to see what all the fuss was about.
During his talk with Eirika night had fallen, the stars and moon out and bright. A large campfire was out in front of the outpost. The men were gathered about, looking at something. As he approached he saw Tethys pointing and speaking with the lined up girls and women in the troupe before starting a slow dance. He heard her describe how to step, swing her hips and move. At last she clapped once before all the girls, including Eirika and Tana, began to dance. Spotting Sain he walked up to his old comrade.
"What in the blazes is going on?" Sain turned his head, smiling lightly before turning back to watch Florina.
"Amelia was asking Tethys where she learned to dance. Then Lute overheard it and joined the conversation. And then Natasha asked another question... Before anyone knew it, all of the beauteous women on our little troop agreed to be taught to dance... with Tana agreeing for Eirika."
"Well... That's... Different." He said before turning to watch.
Eirika and Tana were laughing but seemed to get the hang of things. Natasha seemed to be a natural and was quickly moving to a good beat. Vanessa, Florina and Neimi weren't dancing as well, but were having fun. Amelia, as Tyr expected, was half tripping over her own feet and stumbling more than dancing.
Surprisingly it was Marisa that was actually tripping over her own feet. She would dance a bit, stumbling through the moves, tangle her feet, trip to the sand and get up. Then the she would dance, stumble, tangle, trip and rise again. And then she would repeat the cycle.
"I've seen that woman fight with enough grace to make Karla gawk, how can she not be able to dance?" Tyr groaned.
"I've not a clue." Sain replied, grinning. Tyr snorted a bit before seeing the red haired prince of Jehanna sitting aside. Although he was watching Natasha he seemed more preoccupied than anything else.
"Maybe. Pardon, I need to check on something." Tyr said before moving away and towards Joshua. He walked to the log Joshua was sitting on, moving to sit next to the prince. "Your Highness, may I bother you for a moment?"
"Mmm..." Joshua replied before looking back at him and sighing. "Yes, of course... Pardon, I'm just... If it's about my mother then don't worry, I'll be able to perform."
"I've no doubt." Tyr replied. "I've seen men with reason to grieve rise above the occasion. Lord Eliwood lost his father in the Black Fang War. He was affected but never slowed down. But it still affected him. There were times he seemed reckless in combat, like he was either seeking death or a release of anger. Your people need you. I don't want you rushing off into a suicidal charge."
"..."
"Wouldn't your mother wish for you to be happy?" Tyr continued before standing. "To find love and be a fair ruler?" With that he left, moving aside to watch Eirika as she continued to dance.
Joshua sighed, shaking his head before fixating his eyes on a blonde.
0-0
The mood was much lighter in the morning as breakfast was served, Ephraim and Eirika separated from the group, speaking to each other in hushed tones. Tyr fluttered about, speaking to the men and women under his command, offering reassurance and advice before moving to the stairs of the outpost, ascending to the top. He took in a breath of the morning air before moving to the edge, leaning on the battlements and looking out to the desert. He lowered his hood letting his hair blow about in the wind. He spent some time there, contemplating and watching the dunes.
"Commander." He heard, during his head to see Gerik walk up to him. "Fancy seeing you here."
"Fancy indeed." Tyr replied as Gerik moved beside him. "I have to admit, watching Marisa try and dance was amusing. She's so graceful in battle, but..."
"That's how it is with her." Gerik said, shrugging as he rubbed his head. "Put a sword in her hand she dances like the wind. Tell her to cook, sew or even bandage and she'll fumble. I haven't figured out why."
"Pity the man who weds her." Gerik chuckled nervously at that.
"Yeah... Hey, look, I've been meaning to ask a quick question." Gerik began. "What are you planning on doing after this war is over? Ya know when we win and all."
"...I will need to return to Elibe sooner or later, just to visit old friends." He admitted. "But I think I'll settle down somewhere. I don't know where just... somewhere." He sighed, shaking his head. "I am now twenty four Gerik. I've been travelling since I was eighteen, and from one battle to the next one, never stopping for longer than a week at best. I am... I am weary of war and battle. To be honest I thought, once, that I could achieve glory and renown with my skills, that I could use it that to bring peace. Instead I always find battles. Kings chase me for my skills. Elibe itself seems destined for another was so long as King Desmond sits on the throne of Bern. I will hope this is my last war."
"...But if something big comes up again?"
"I suppose I will return and loan my skills again." Tyr said, shrugging. "But that is for later. I'd advise you enjoy the day, Gerik. We're off to war again tomorrow." He said, raising his hood back up before turning about to leave.
"...Figures..." Gerik sighed. "Probably won't want a job offer. Ah well, what can ya do?"
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After speaking with Gerik, Tyr decided to return to his wagon. Between Florina's confessions and his aborted declaration he never mustered up the focus to review his maps of Renais. He decided that putting his mind to focus on a task would be better than worrying about his future and sat at his desk, looking over the area for the best paths to get to the castle with minimum resistance. He would make sure to speak with Seth and Ephraim about it later, but decided he had his route.
Groaning he leaned back in his chair, letting his mind cease worrying about battles, which only served to remind him of Tana's interruption and Florina's advice.
'Love is not a war of attrition...' He repeated to himself. He set his arms on the desk, leaning forwards, frowning in thought. 'I love her. I love Eirika. Elimine, I didn't realize it until we left Frelia the second time. She said she would be my peerless warrior. I... I couldn't admit it, but that's the moment I fell. Blast and damnation, it seems so long ago now. And what have I done? Nothing! Which is how I lost Lyn, I did nothing! I should know better. And yet, if she doesn't feel as I do... She would not dismiss them out of hand, but she would still hurt me... And yet if I would see her with another man it would hurt all the same. I... I need to tell her. Before we go to Renais... Even if my heart breaks... we may as well let the hurt happen now and get it over with... But if she feels as I do... I... I do not know either.
'I am the Son of a Duke, so nobility isn't a question, but beyond my skills what have I to offer? I have no title, no land, and no income. I am likely considered persona non grata in Bern at best. It wouldn't be hard for me to sell my skills here, but I do not want to be in another conflict, not if I can avoid it... Gah, I am over thinking this... I should act soon and plan later.
'Plan later... Yeah, great tactical advise there...'
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After some hours of thinking Tyr stepped from his wagon, heading back to the outpost.
"Oh, there you are." He heard, turning his head to see Ewan, a Luna tome in one hand and an Elfire in the other.
"...Dare I ask why you have a tome of elder magic?"
"Oh, this?" Ewan said, holding up the dark tome. "I found it in the desert after the fight. But since I started using it my Anima magic hasn't been as strong. So I've been training to be able to use both. I think I got it down pat now." He said, grinning widely. "But that's not why I'm here. Eirika set me to tell you lunch was about to be served; said she didn't want you overworking or something."
"Ah, I see." Tyr said, nodding once. "I was getting peckish, come to think of it. Okay lad, lead on."
"You know it!" Ewan said before the pair walked to the outpost.
'On one hand having another user of dark magic can be handy.' Tyr thought to himself. 'On the other hand... Yeah, me and elder spells do not get along. At all.'
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Lunch was a quiet affair. Tana and Florina had made lunch, fish from the local market with spices and rice. Everyone was pleased and sang the praises of the cooks, Sain and L'Arachel being the most vocal. Spotting Eirika moving to the fireplace Tyr sighed.
It was now or never.
He stood up, walking over to her, experience letting him keep his emotions in check as he reached the princess.
"Eirika, have you a moment?" He asked as she turned to look at him.
"For you, Tyrland, I always do." Eirika replied, smiling widely. "What is it?"
"May we take this to the battlements?" He asked softly. "I'd rather not have prying eyes and ears."
"Ah, of course."
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"We did get interrupted last night, didn't we?" Eirika began as they walked out to the edge of the tower, the wind blowing sand across the dunes in the distance. "I should apologize... Tana dragged me away before I could get a word in, and I couldn't really refuse her."
"I understand. You're old friends; I won't take that from you." Tyr replied, smoothing out his hair, his hood down. "I just hope I, um, wasn't intruding on anything."
"Nothing at all to be honest." Eirika replied, waving a hand as Tyr looked about. "Ah, if it's about last night, I am sorry if I... made you uncomfortable."
"That... It's fine, My Princess." Tyr replied. "It's just... I felt a need to answer what you asked before Tana accosted you."
"My last question?" Eirika began, thinking. "Ah, yes." She said, nodding once. "I asked if another took your heart after Lyn."
"Yes, you did."
"You may tell me." Eirika began, smiling softly. "I... I won't get upset you know. I... Never mind, I'm being silly." She said flushing. "I'm sure if someone has... she would be lucky to have your heart."
"Eirika..."
"You're a wonderful person, Tyrland." Eirika began, looking down at the floor. "If you are... in love... I am... I would help you win her over."
"That... isn't exactly my worry..."
"You know I would help you."
"She is... You are not in that position..."
"...Tyrland... Who is she...?"
Tyrland took in a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves before his shoulders slumped. One word was spoken then. "...You."
"I... Me?" Eirika let off, blushing deeper. "You... love me?"
"...I do." Tyr replied, nodding once. "I... felt... I had to tell you. Even if my feelings were to become unrequited I... you should know. Before anything else I felt I needed to... tell you. Otherwise I would worry about how you felt. At least now, better or worse... I spoke up..."
"Tyrland... You would choose... me?" Eirika began, closing her eyes and setting her hands before her chest. "The little princess who didn't know what a war was like a few short months ago... I am... Tyrland... I have..."
"I will... I will not press you to answer." Tyr replied softly. "I have not title, land or income. As a... possible husband all I can offer is my skill and my service, but you have both already."
"I do not care for what titles or lands or coins you have or have not..." Eirika replied before stepping towards him, setting her hands on his shoulders before looking up at him, eyes shining. "Your skills and service are wonderful to have... But it is not them I want. It is... It is you. You took my heart."
"I-"
"For me you have risked life, followed a fool's errand and stood up to a king. You stood with me through the worst of the storms and darkest of nights. You are my teacher. You are my guide. You are... you are my love." She moved a hand to cup his cheek as his lips turned into a wide smile, eyes softening. "All I ask of you... All I ever wanted of you... is your companionship. You need not worry for title, or land or income. My brother has spoken with me this morning at length of how he hopes you will stay with us, to help rebuild our land. He wants you as general and advisor. And I... I want you as husband. When we free Renais, when we free Magvel... I want us to wed."
"Eirika... To have you as a bride..." Tyr began, wrapping his arms about her shoulders, pulling her closer. "To be your groom... It would make all I've seen and done worthwhile. I love you."
"As I love you..." Eirika whispered before leaning her head up, Tyr leaning his down. Their lips met in a simple but loving kiss, a shiver sent down their spines.
At the door to the top of the outpost Florina let off a soft smile, one tear falling before silently sneaking away.
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Promotions...
Kyle and Forde from Cavalier to Paladin
Amelia from Recruit to Cavalier
Ross from Pirate to Warrior (Like his dad)
Ewan from Shaman to Druid (Fast, I know, but I didn't want him to lose his anima magic. So sue me)
Marisa from Myrmidon to Assassin
Gerik from Mercenary to Hero
Tana from Pegasus Knight to Falcoknight
Cormag from Wyvern Rider to Wyvern Lord
Colm from Thief to Rogue
Tethys from Dancer to Dance Instructor (And yes, that is a joke)