*flashback*

FD: What are you gonna do, Cordelia, break my arms?!

*shift to scene where author is sitting in a hospital bed with casts on both arms and numerous other injuries, wearing a scowl on his face*

Deadpool: You know, you really shouldn't give her ideas.

FD: *mocking* You really shouldn't give her ideas.

*A pause of silence before FD screams in pain from DP punching one of his broken arms*

*present*

FD: Well… while I'm not particularly happy about my old injuries, I have to thank Cordelia.

Tychon: Really? What for?

FD: My health policy covered all of my injuries, surprisingly, and with some lovely donations, we've actually been able to afford a proper intro. Oh, and as usual, we don't own anything.

Lancer, cue the music!

Lancer: On it!

For more visual aid, take a look at Sengoku Musou's opening. Music: Sen Ikusa by Wagakki Band

(Instrumental) The Brand of Pandora falls down while spinning, landing on a familiar forehead with bangs. The perspective shifts back slightly to show Eric looking up ahead, while Chrom's side profile is shown facing the other direction behind the former. Their respective brands plaster the background as Chrom stands with a hand on his hip and Eric stands with arms crossed. Then Sumia crouches on one knee in front of Cordelia, an emblem of upward curving wings beside them. Next, Frederick, Raven, and Robin, each with their respective weapons of an axe, sword, and tome in hand, accompanied by a scythe and dragon emblem. Next, Walhart stands tall with Wolf Berg on his shoulder with the emblem reminiscent of his axe beside him. Then the black scene receives two slashes to reveal the black scene to show the title "Fire Emblem: Decisions

(Kataku chikatta yurenai omoi nara koko ni aru darou?) Falchion and Eternity stand in the ground in an X when suddenly, Eric and Chrom run through from each side and grab their respective weapons. With flame emitted from the blade, Eric swung a few times, a torrent of fire torching the scene

(Shinnen aru nara surechigai mo mata hitsuzen darouka kotae wa izuko da) Chrom slashes the screen accompanied by powerful gusts of wind, and a battlefield of troops are blown away with an explosion, revealing the two kings back to back grinning at one another over their shoulder. A familiar background of royal blue is displayed behind Robin as he points forward, Frederick appears on screen with an axe in hand. Raven, armed with Uramasa and a smile, each of the two on Robin's left and right sides. A red background replaces the blue, with Walhart holding his Wolf Berg. Yen'fay, Excellus and Cervantes each appear at Walhart's side before Yen'fay slashes the scene

(Iza, maichire sakura saite inochi no aru kagiri maire) A silver lance, a steel sword, and Uramasa lock with one another, the scene widens to show Frederick, Robin and Raven smiling at the sky, making a pact of sorts. Now, the Shepherds all stand in a group with Vaike pointing up at the screen, then the scene switches to a black background, with both Aversa and Validar standing parallel to each other while a pair of ominous red eyes glow on a darkened face

(Aa, mou dare ni mo inai fuwari, kaze ga naida) Chrom stands beneath a veil of sakura trees, petals dancing along the wind in the glow of the moonlight. Sumia hugs the prince from behind, bringing a warm smile to his face as he places a hand on Sumia's. Meanwhile, Eric looks out at the crescent moon over a cliff. Cordelia looks at him with worry and sadness in her eyes with a hand on her chest.

(Hanate, hanate ikusa he inotte, inotte mirai he) A bolt of Thoron is launched from Robin's hand, Frederick attacks with his lance, then Sumia and Cordelia charge through the sky with their lances in hand. A familiar blue haired swordswoman stands with her hand on Chrom's sword, surrounded by 15 silhouettes before one of them jump out to cut the scene with a purple flash

(Waratte, waratteruyouni douka, chikai no nakade chirasetekure) A young Chrom and Eric run side by side with smiles on their faces before the scene cuts to a dreary looking castle, the two now adult royals charge at Walhart with swords in hand. Chrom avoids a strike from Walhart as Eric jumps in the air and meets the Conqueror's axe, the force cracking the ground beneath them and causing it to explode

(Sono kokoro, makoto ni musou) Falchion and Eternity fall from the skies and land in an X once more. A freeze frame of Eric and Chrom both running is displayed, Cordelia and Sumia appear next near their respective love interests, then Raven appears in the middle in front with a hand on his hip and a smile. Frederick stands on Chrom's side with hands behind his back, Robin, on Eric's side with a hand on his chin in thought. Finally, a large portrait style view of Walhart towering behind them all, ending the opening.

"Raven?"

The dark-haired swordsman looked up at me as he finished up covering my duties for today. "Oh! Joy to see you here at last! You ask something of me, milord?"

I raised a brow before Raven simply began to chuckle. "What do you wish?"

I ran an awkward hand through my hair. "So, um… just to put it bluntly… turns out that I may or may not have spoke to Cordelia and-"

"The cojones finally dropped in place, no?"

My jaw dropped, not only in Raven's rare use of slang, but in the context which he used it, it told me what I needed to know. "Y-you knew?!"

"So many of the others knew, I'm surprised you didn't," he sighed. "It was the most talked about topic from the time Gangrel was defeated, and not even just from the Shepherds."

"What… I can't even…"

Just as I was groaning into the palm laid on my face, a clank of metal followed my ears, who else could it be but the great knight of Ylisse himself? I could definitely note that despite his otherwise naturally curt demeanor and poise, he had a slight scowl of disappointment and/or discomfort, if nothing else.

"Raven," Frederick bellowed, even his usual tone was tinged even the slightest bit of exasperation. "I have some business to be done with you involving the "deal"." The armour-clad man pulled out a small pouch with the distinct clink of metal that would have any merchant go insane. He dug into his pouch and ran his hand through the coin collection before pulling out a handful of gold to give my retainer. It hadn't even been before the currency reached Raven's hands that I realized that the pouch Frederick carried had been labelled in stitched lettering "pool money".

The pieces finally fell into place. "Raven… you BET on my courting Cordelia?!"

"IN FAVOUR, milord," the swordsman corrected. "I trusted that you would find the courage to court her the moment you came back."

"Indeed," Frederick added. "Likewise, many of the others thought you would confess the moment you saw her after your quest overseas. Inversely, some also bet against you, thinking you wouldn't have it in you until much later."

I could feel my eyebrow twitch. "Wait, that event happened not even an hour ago! How did everyone already know about-"

Call it a creeping feeling, but I felt like it wasn't just the three of us alone once I started to listen and think rather than speak. A vein now prominent on my forehead, I picked up a nearby rock and threw it at the open hallway that led out to the courtyard. "Don't you people have jobs?!"

And with the rock startling them, from the sides of the threshold fell Vaike, Stahl, Lissa, and Sumia on the right, and Olivia, Virion, and Donnel on the left. Each had a grin of embarrassment on their face as they took a look at my steaming face, both from slight rage and irritation, but also embarrassment of my own. "Oh, I almost forgot." I picked up and threw yet another rock, but this time, with a swing of my arm, I changed the stone's path with wind magic, pushing it upward. A loud thunk was heard behind the top of the threshold, followed by curse of pain as the sugar thief fell from above onto the solid ground with everyone else.

I sighed in disappointment. "Good grief… you all seriously couldn't find anything else better to do?"

Gaius, surprisingly with his casual trove of goodies slung over his shoulder, dusted off his garb. "Well, it isn't every day the feared Black Beast of Pandora gets his head out of his ass. Should be a phenomenon to savour."

"As… crude as he put it…" Raven began, a small smile of mirth across his face. "He does have a point, sire."

My eyes bugged out of my head as my teeth became comical serrated saws. "No one asked you!"

Laughter erupted throughout the area, hell, even Frederick let his stone face crack a grin. "And to think, such good news to take place right before milord's wedding."

"Wedding?" I tilted my head in confusion. "If I may ask, the wedding ceremony is when exactly?"

"Tomorrow."

My eyes just about popped out. "Tomorrow? He's getting married so quickly?"

"If I am correct, milord proposed weeks ago. Only a week and some odd days after you and your charge left to Chon'sin."

A hand immediately shot up to make quite the audible contact with my face. "I see. That means another trip to the tailors." The lone hand reached up and gripped tightly on many a lock of hair. "Damn it, I hate last minute occasions!"

"Wasn't that function in Themis considered to be last minute, milord?" Raven asked.

"So you see too why I hate them," I groaned out in annoyance.

Raven sweatdropped as he gave a weak laugh. "Well then, it's good that I'm always thinking ahead. I placed an order the day after leaving Chon'sin. I figured it a wise decision. Have it and not need it, no?"

I tilted my head in question. "Really? You-"

"Gave them your proper chest, sleeve, shoulder width, and length measurements, as well as your waist and leg measurements, sire," Raven noted without missing a beat. "I also asked for some modifications to be added to your robe, as you had wished for months before. Though the robe is fairly optional, I know you prefer a simpler look sometimes."

I honestly had been left in surprise. I mean, I always knew Raven was on top on things and was quite eccentric when it came to the improvement in quality to my life in particular, but I don't even remember exactly giving him my measurements. I suppose I just have a very helpful aid and friend in him. Basically my own Frederick with way more personality, if I had to say so myself.

"And to add to it…" he began, a grin of mischief dancing across his face. "It's a lovely ensemble for yet another potential time for you to experience another "date" with Lady Cordelia."

Another round of laughter erupted at my expense as I hung my head in embarrassment. Yes, Raven did indeed have more personality than Frederick. I sneered at the smiling swordsman, unable to contain my discomfort for the situation as I could feel the creeping blush on my face. Something that usually doesn't happen. All I could really do was shrug, I suppose Raven's character would live to be a double-edged sword when it wanted to be. Still, I couldn't really fault him too much. Behind the subtle and tactful jokes, I knew he really cared for my wellbeing. He was actually really happy to see that I found something to look forward to other than having a head on my sword. So all in all, I simply swallowed this particular pill of awkwardness and nodded my salutation to everyone before leaving to head home, with Raven in tow as usual.

As the now evening-lit sky began to drag the sun down beyond the horizon, my affable swordsman companion and I took our journey to the tailors, as apparently, my order as per Raven's request should have been completed over the last two days. It wouldn't take long before a wooden door was approached and opened, the metallic chime of a bell alerting the owner of the fine establishment. A stout man with an enthusiastically groomed handlebar moustache greeted the two of us with a smile oh-so-jolly, as he was usually known for.

"If it isn't my two favourite customers!" he cried jovially. "How do you fare?"

"Our day has been a swell one, Marco, thank you for asking," Raven said with a bow. "And yours?"

"Simply marvellous! My daughter has gone full throttle with her passion for art. Like an overnight sensation, her paintings are being requested and auctioned all over Ylisse! She's currently in Caldor painting a mural requested by Count Dunwald himself!" His eyes came to a close. "Yes, she has made me very proud of her."

Raven responded with a smile equally as content. "I am glad to hear that. Now then, if you wouldn't mind speaking business, I am here to make a pick for milord here."

Marco spotted me behind Raven's smaller frame. "Ah, Eric, I see you have come back from your trip. I hope you are doing okay."

The tone in his voice in that last sentence sounded to me like it was under the category of apologetic or concerned. Seemed like he knew just as easily, not that it was a hidden fact or anything of the sort. Just not something I advertised. "Yeah, it's been annoying, but I'll live." I instinctively raised my left arm to rub an itch on my forehead. Popping into mind, I dove into my pack for my wallet and grabbed a handful of gold coins.

"Why the money so soon?" Marco asked with another laugh. "Certainly unique, my customers usually like to see the work before paying for it," he joked.

"Well, knowing your taste in design and your work ethic, I'm sure your work is top quality guaranteed. Very few can match your prowess with a needle and thread." With a wave of the hand, the jolly master of sewing guided us to the back where he had kept the work of art. Nothing else could do it justice once I laid eyes on it.

The outfit was like a blend of Ylissean and Pandorian clothing, with a simple black tunic as the base of the upper body clothing, but the left side had been draped with an eye-catching collared coat from the shoulder all the way down below the knee. I say eye-catching because it has the familiar gold trimmed style of Ylisse while having the small slitted flair Pandora was known for on the hem, a lovely gradient from the noble blue colour of the former to the exalted orchid colour of my heritage. The shoulder was topped with a polished pauldron, and the opposing shoulder had a twin as well. On the legs of the model were a pair of pants that matched my usual hakama, although not nearly as wartorn and it had a thin stripe of purple run up the outer side of the leg.

"Marco… you never cease to amaze me," I gasped, eyeing the clothing with such admiration for the middle-aged man's handiwork. "How much is the apparel?"

"Twenty five gold."

I hand him the due of his work I held in my hand from before, to which his brows furrow slightly. "I'm sorry, is something the matter?"

"Not at all, milord," he responded quickly. "I simply figured you gave too much. I mean, this is forty gold…!"

I tapped my foot absently on the wooden floor. "Well… knowing Raven's enthusiasm and your tendency for surprises, I assume you have something else to show me."

Marco closed his eyes and a mirthy chuckle escaped his lips. "How apt you are, milord. I'd been getting to that, but I wasn't entirely sure if you'd be okay with it; it's not completely ready yet. My brother, the usual goldsmith wasn't able to make it due to a wrist injury, so I had to take it up myself."

"Worry not," Raven replied. "Please show us if you do not mind, we are somewhat strapped for time."

With a nod of grace and respect, Marco approached a small workbench where he kept the additional piece. A headpiece, to be specific; a simple uniform headband plated with gold all around, the only part of the band different from the rest was the upward curving anterior portion, rising up and forming a small four-pointed star at its peak.

"You made a crown to go with," I asked a little breathlessly, absolutely astonished by the beauty of the head piece. "We are aware that this isn't my wedding, right?"

The tailor laughed at my playful little quip, raising the article in his hands and making his way towards me. "May you enjoy your function tomorrow, milord. And give Lord Chrom my congratulations."

"Of course." With a nod and a smile, I placed the currency in hand in his palm in exchange for the clothes and crown, and proceeded to leave the establishment. Before I could open the door, however, a voice made its call.

I turned my head to face Marco. "Yes?"

"You gave me five gold extra."

A smile found its way onto my face. "Keep it," I replied before leaving.

"How generous of you, milord," Raven imparted as we began our way back home, closing the door behind us.

"I just thought it cost quite the pretty penny for the crown, and he really did outdo himself, so the tip was very well deserved."

Raven nodded at my words before reaching out towards me. "If you would please, milord. I would like to bring them home as quickly as possible."

"Raven," I sighed. "I am more than capable of bringing them back in one piece."

"I am well aware." The dark-haired swordsman raised a finger in surprise. "Oh, I just remembered! I believe that the prince is starting up a gathering in about an hour, inviting all of the male Shepherds. I'm sure you'd want to attend."

"You mean a bachelor party," I replied.

"I suppose you could say that," Raven said, tilting his head in acceptance over the use of a shrug.

I almost fell straight to the ground. "You mean to tell me you've never heard of the term "bachelor party"?"

"Milord, of course I have," Raven said gracefully with the slightest hint of snark in his voice. "Or do you forget that I've lived within civilization longer than you have?"

I lifted my finger and opened my mouth to retort, but not a single argument could be made. He wasn't wrong. "Fair point."

"So are you going to go to it or not?" Raven asked as he retrieved the outfit from me. "I can handle these no problem."

This could go back-and-forth on and on, but there would really be no point to continue trying to go on, so I conceded. "Fine. Where is it happening?"

"I believe it's at the castle, though I implore that you not be so lead-footed on the alcohol," Raven sighed in slight exasperation. "You've damaged your heart, guts, and arm in the past, I'd rather you not damage your liver as well."

"Thank you for your concern, Raven. But because I want to be somewhat coherent tomorrow, I was thinking of doing that anyway." I brought a hand up to my mouth and began to chew at my nail absently, as I didn't often tend to do. Wonder where that came from.

"'Twould not bode well for your fingers should you pick up that habit, milord," the swordsman chided as he turned around in the opposite direction, the clothing in his hand twirling with him. "And you better get going. The event won't last forever."

"Gotcha." It wouldn't be too long before the veil of night would soon descend and Raven disappeared from sight, leaving me alone to stroll along down to the castle. The night sky, dotted with twinkling bursts of light above, dimmed slightly by the much brighter street lights adorning the cobble roads, each lit with straw and oil reserves in the lamps to keep them going all night. The night, however, was all but quiet. Many a happy Ylissean still roamed the urban area of the capital, the night-owls and party-goers roaming the streets and doing what they do best: go out partying and doing stuff. Painting the town red as they say.

And a particular group of females were certainly doing their share of painting with a fun carriage ride, as I could take from the horse-drawn carriage out on the side of the road as they got out, and an inn they rented for the night. The first of them to leave the vehicle was the bachelorette of the party, her hair clips absent from her hair, and the last being the short, spiky and red-haired knight whose naturally tomboyish air about her was completely absent this night. It was not too long before I was noticed by the girls, Lissa waving to me with her usual cheery self, to which I waved back with a smile. Though really, my attention was drawn towards the Knight Paragon, and her violet orbs focused on my chocolate ones. It wasn't too long a glance, but it was one I would savour for as long as I could. I could honestly only imagine how happy she must be, I mean, her friend is getting married tomorrow. The two were nothing less than sisters, hell, I wouldn't be surprised if they actually were born with the same parents.

"You heading off to Chrom's party?" Lissa asked. "Why don't you join us? I'm sure Cordelia would love the company." With that last statement, Cordelia's face drew inspiration from her own hair, and it certainly didn't help her when the other girls were whistling, exclaiming and gesturing in ways that further drowned the redhead in embarrassment.

I laughed in sheer amusement as well as elation. Just seeing my girlfriend blush like a tomato was always so adorable, this figure of perfection exhibited her weakness in the form of that reddening face.

Wow. I just took it in. Cordelia is my girlfriend. This angel that the gods mistakenly sent down to this plane is now mine to love and cherish. As great as I felt at that singular thought, however, they were having their own bachelorette party, I didn't want to intrude on their fun, so I waved my farewells to the ladies before continuing on the road to the castle.

It wouldn't be before long when I reach the castle and find the male Shepherds, and it looked like the guys had their own plan in mind for fun underway. The guys were playing cards for the most part once I arrived… except for Vaike, Gregor, and funnily enough, Virion. They were on top of one of the nearby tables adjacent to the other guys committing to drunken karaoke, each with a shit-eating grin.

Well, I suppose I couldn't blame them, it is Chrom's last night of fun after all.

"Frederick, calm down!" Chrom exclaimed. "We still have time to spare!"

For the last few hours or so, Frederick had spent no less than every bit of his waking hours towards the planning of Chrom's wedding with Sumia. And ever since our victory against Plegia, the great knight had meticulously had everything down to the very last detail, to the last second. Or at least that's what he was aiming for, as if you knew anything about the lives of us Shepherds, it is that nothing ever truly went as planned. Precisely why Frederick was pacing back and forth in the small room behind his lord, who seemed to be less jittery than he, despite the prince being the one actually getting married.

Frederick's head darted up frantically, uncharacteristic for the usually concise and stoic great knight. "Milord, with all due respect, how can I calm down? There are a myriad of things that demand immediate attention! The painter is late-"

"Of course he is," Chrom interrupted.

"The banners in the hall are the wrong colour as well, it was supposed to be royal blue, instead we were given imperial blue! Not to mention-"

"Peace, Frederick," Chrom sighed as he slipped on his coat of a powerful and deep navy colour, decorated with gold trimmed epaulets. It was evident that the prince was vexed, as his most loyal and stalwart knight was pacing around like a beheaded chicken. "As long as they are hanging fine, and the hall isn't on fire, it will do."

"Wow," I snorted out a laugh. "I'm genuinely surprised, Chrom. And here I thought that men usually get cold feet about this stuff and head for the hills."

A button clicked into its place on Chrom's shirt. "Oh, don't get me wrong. If not for the need to keep Frederick in check, I'd probably be freaking out myself."

I lifted my gaze upward, focusing at a small crack lined in the ceiling of the room. "Oh, come on, she already said yes when you proposed. And she's been in love with you for YEARS. The most you need to worry about is her tripping over nothing."

"Or Stahl eating all of the food before anything even kicks off," Robin remarked as he helped Chrom out with his collar. "Should probably make a note of that."

"Just wait until you get married, Eric," Chrom huffed indignantly. "Only then will you truly understand how nerve wracking this feels. Not to mention these clothes are ridiculously uncomfortable."

"Hmm… I suppose so." I mean, I love Cordelia, I really do, but marriage? Not something I really even stopped to consider, especially when looking at the fact that she and I were a relatively new couple, officially, that is. Not more than a day's rise and fall since she and I announced our status with one another. Certainly it wouldn't bode well to rush headlong into uncharted territory so quickly.

Yet, at the same time, it didn't sound like a bad concept, nor an unrealistic one.

'Cordelia del Pandora…' I thought to myself. I really liked the sound of that name. Rolled off the tongue if I do say so myself. I suppose I liked the thought of that name slightly too much because I hadn't necessarily been residing in the same realm as the other men in the room, though, as Raven's familiar voice slowly got gradually clearer.

"Milord! Ylisse to milord!" Raven snapped his fingers in my face, his form standing right in front of my sitting form.

"Huh?" was my intelligent response.

Chrom, now finished getting dressed proper for the ceremony, patted at his hair. "I see the crimson-haired beauty of the Pegasus Knights has your focus."

"You know, Chrom," I began before getting up. "I would explain to you how much you should fuck off right now, but it not only bares repeating, it is also your wedding day, so I'm just going to let it slide."

Frederick coughed out, gathering the room's attention. "As amusing as this is, we are to reach the hall soon. We should leave soon, lest we be late, and Naga knows we can't have anything else go wrong."

Robin stifled a chuckle. "Seems like you've finally pulled yourself together, Freddy."

"Well, pardon me should I show any level of concern," Frederick retorted. "Someone must."

A short laugh was shared between the men in the room as each of us exited the room, ready to get the ceremony going. I would be the last to leave, right behind Chrom. I gave a simple nod of support, to which he responded with a nod of his own and a thankful smile.

"Here we go," I mused as I closed the door behind me.

It was only but a short walk until the party reached the cathedral. As short a travel it was, it didn't prevent the groom being spotted by the occasional civilian, which certainly raised some eyebrows and garnered the attention of many as they nearly swarmed us, though most were quickly shut down from anything too hasty with a single glare of the great knight. At least Chrom's winning smile soothed their fear of the knight. Once inside, we each took our positions at the altar, with Chrom at the head. I spotted many a person on my way up there, such as a certain bothersome noble I've had the pleasure of crossing paths with. All it took was a single glance for him to turn away, shivering in his seat.

I grinned to myself in petty pleasure. First Cordelia, then my friend getting married, and now I more or less shat on one of the most well-known nobles on this side of Ylisse? Naga is smiling down on us today.

Speaking of such, it was but a moment before the inner set of oaken doors opened, giving way to the bridal party. Many murmurs were exchanged as each bridesmaid made their way to the altar. I took one look at the redhead of my affection, and I couldn't tell whether it was the setting or whatever else, but despite seeing her choice of gown once before, and considering that each of Sumia's other bridesmaids wore the same, I felt like my connection to consciousness would give right then and there. Cordelia and I exchanged glances, a smile of wonder and a blush of embarrassment on her face.

My feeling of shock and awe soon replaced by amusement once I saw Raven's reaction. I'd later have to remind him to pick his jaw up off the ground, I figured, and with a simple trace of his sight, I knew that what got his attention was none other than Olivia. I had to admit, the gown of red she wore was simply stunning, and Raven's reaction was certainly equal to the scene given. I nudged him lightly, just so hopefully no one would catch the Commander-General of arguably the strongest realm in the world look like a slack-jawed fool.

And finally, Libra, in all of his bishop regalia, took center stage at the altar, book in hand and ready. All the preparations were complete. Now it was just for Sumia to come in.

A loud blaring sequence of notes on the organ brought everyone, especially Chrom, to attention. With the Wedding March underway, the wedding had commenced.

The creak of the outer doors revealed Sumia, the lovely bride for today. If not for my biased opinion towards my girlfriend, she was hands down the most attractive of all. She wore a lovely dress that hugged her upper body but spread out wide at her hips. The white dress had small frills of purple at the top of the skirt, and a transparent veil of the same violet hung over her visage. Not a single word in any language could describe her justly. Besides her was a man of modest height, not much taller than Sumia, and he had the integrity of fortified stone for a father giving their daughter away at a wedding. Though that all changed when he finally gave her a kiss on her forehead, as tears flowed down his face unabated, curbed only by the crescent of his smile. As he took his seat, Sumia, taking her position in front of the prince, waited for her love to lift the veil from her radiant face with nothing but love in her eyes.

"You may be seated." Libra said, granting the church permission to seat themselves once more. "We are gathered here today… to celebrate the union of Chrom Grantz de Ylisse and Sumia de Riegel. You have come here to share in this formal commitment they make to one another, to offer your love and support to this union, and to allow Chrom and Sumia to start their married life together surrounded by the people dearest and most important to them. So welcome to one and all, who have traveled from near and far. Chrom and Sumia thank you for your presence here today, and now ask for your blessing, encouragement, and lifelong support, for their decision to be married."

Libra's speech would not go on for much longer, as even he could analyze the environment and tell that the two wanted to finally seal the deal. And truth be told, had he not had the slightest pang of excitement and elation himself, he would not have abbreviated his sermon. Soon enough, the height of the ceremony was nigh.

"Do you, Chrom Grantz de Ylisse, take Sumia de Riegel, to be your lawfully wedded wife?" Libra continued, gesturing to the groom.

"I do."

"And do you, Sumia de Riegel, take Chrom Grantz de Ylisse, to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

"I do."

"You may exchange your vows."

Chrom stepped forward with a small slip of paper in hand. Unable to read the words for his attention was solely focused on the woman in front of him, however, he simply tossed the paper to the side. "You are the love of my life, Sumia. I couldn't imagine my days without you. Throughout my life, I've had many low points and events, though there was never a single one that you couldn't bring me out of. You gave me hope in my despair, whether I needed a shoulder to cry on or a "slap" to the face…" Chrom breathed out a small laugh, referring back to a certain trip to Ferox. This didn't go unnoticed by some of the Shepherds who witnessed the event unfurl, a slight murmur of laughter rose and fell in the church before the groom continued. "...you were there for me through it all. On my life, from this day forward, I will love you until the end of existence, and I will do all that I can possible to make you happy."

While Chrom stepped back, he swept away a tear threatening to spill, letting Sumia step forward and give her vows.

"I love you so much, Chrom," Sumia began, making the prince smile. "I hadn't the slightest clue what my purpose was in life, and I thought myself to be nothing short of mediocre. That all changed once you took my life-and my heart, by storm. You made me feel like a champion among men and women alike, and while I may not have been the most graceful or nimble person when we first met, but your spirit gave me the power to stand here before you, and commit to the single most happiest moment of my life. Thank you so much, Chrom. I love you."

A warm smile graces Libra's features as both parties now were crying freely, abundant with joy. "Now, who holds the rings?"

"That would be I, father." Robin presented the priest with a pair of rings, one of a thicker gold, and the other was a thinner band, each bearing the Brand of the Exalt engraved on a gem of sparkling sapphire. The bride and groom both placed a ring on the other's finger, leading the ceremony to the final question.

"Now then, finally, if anyone objects to this marriage, speak now or forever hold thy peace."

Much to everyone's expectation, not a single concern was announced. Only one thing remained, and this was the part the two had waited for.

"Beneath the ever-vigilant eye of Naga and her state, I hereby declare you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

The two took a step forward, a mere few inches distance between them. Chrom, as daring as he was, took her in his arms and dipped her before kissing passionately, which caused the audience to erupt in applause and cheers, while the whistle and hoots no doubt came from the Shepherds. They were definitely an expressive bunch, and that would never change.

The recessional now playing, bride and groom now turned husband and wife left the church arm in arm, while each of their respective parties left arm in arm as well through the path made by the civilians. My partner in particular, Cordelia, held onto my arm as we followed the wedded couple back to the castle, the roaring joy of the townspeople buzzing through the air. I'd silently thank whoever decided to have the groom's party on the left side, it wouldn't be a good look for my lovely lady to hold onto an arm that didn't exist, but that was only a trivial thought as I looked out to my friend in his happiest hour… with a genuine smile on my face.

"Yes… this is what I want."

Cordelia turned her head. "Hm? Did you say something?"

I scratched my cheek sheepishly. "Oh, nothing."

Later that night came the wedding reception, where a large feast and wide room for dancing and just overall enjoyment laid for everyone. Packed as the feast tables were, I would highly doubt that they'd last long, given the Shepherds were all present. Hell, I wager Stahl alone could finish off a good fraction all by his lonesome. After a meal meant for kings, the now married couple commenced the first dance of the night. Sumia had her head laid on Chrom's shoulder, swaying with the slow hums the musical score provided, as if they melted away along with all of their problems and concerns and responsibilities. And oh, boy, would a lot of those hit them starting tomorrow. But now wasn't the time for it. Tonight was just them, their friends and their love. All else be damned.

A little later into the night after everyone had their dance, and it would be time to cut the marvellous vanilla cake made for the wedding. I don't think I'd had ever seen Gaius so blue balled in my entire life, for a lack of a better term. Being teased with such a mouth-watering creation of empty calories and not being able to just go to town with it had the thief going insane; it took all of his willpower to keep himself in check until he could get his hands on a slice. Chrom and Sumia both cut the first slice together, and cheers erupted once the piece was freed from the rest of the structure. Those cheers changed into hearty laughs, however, once Sumia gave in to her mischievous thoughts, as she shoved a chunk of that slice in her husband's face.

"Delicious," Chrom chuckled, before giving Sumia her just desserts.

FD: *puts on sunglasses*

Deadpool: I hate you.

Her porcelain features marred with cake and frosting served to make the laughter grow even stronger, though it was probably for the best that the cake slinging didn't go any further. This was still a royal wedding, after all. Everyone had received a sliver of the wonderfully tasty cake, some more than others, as shown by copious amount of frosting that coated the thief's face. Maribelle certainly wasted no time at all chastising him about his "low-born manners", as she so delicately put it.

A smile tugged at the corners of my mouth for two reasons. One, I had Cordelia at my side as she and I spoke to a noble duo who claimed to have some sort of connection with Sumia, apparently they were old family friends or something to that effect. And two, the sheer fun my retainer was having with a certain pinkette, laughing and swapping stories amongst the other Shepherds he had yet to fully make acquaintance with. If only he hadn't been so painfully dense, I could see it coming a mile away that the rose haired dancer had feelings for him, and they would make the cutest couple. It wasn't necessarily as public as my blooming relationship with my companion, but it was alluded to by a handful of wary Shepherds.

Wary? No. Nosey was more like it.

"Ooh, this is my favourite part~" Cordelia all but sang as she sprung up out of her seat. After trailing her beeline, I now knew what made her dart away like that. It was time for the bride to throw her bouquet.

Sumia stood facing away from all of the females at the reception, the ladies waiting anxiously for the flowers to be launched. Each of them cheering and giggling, and some even pushing the other girls out of the way. Man, women can be vicious. Sumia's arm tensed before she launched the bouquet over her head, ready for the sharks to attack their prey.

"I got it!" yelled two female voices somehow. It wouldn't be until the crowd cleared that I saw who was, or rather, who were the ones who caught it, and once I saw it, my face lit up like a damn Christmas tree. The women holding the bouquet were none other than Cordelia and Olivia. This had to be some divine power at work here. A loud round of cheers and and whistles ensued, but let it be said that it did not go without punishment, as there were a few eyes trained on me, which didn't help the colour leave my face any better.

About an hour later, it finally reached the final dance before everyone would be sent home. Though unlike the dance before that, I opted for just a relaxing breath of fresh air out on the balcony. The view was marvellous, overlooking the capital with the half moon hanging in the night sky, surrounded by its usual guard of white specks of light. I leaned my left arm against the railing, using my one hand as a clutch for my head.

"Eric?" I turned around to meet the holder of the voice.

"Hey, Cherry," I answered, turning my body back towards the skyline.

"What are you doing out here?" she began. "You're not enjoying yourself?"

I shook my head. "Nah, I'm having a great time. Just needed some air. It's a tad stifling in there with everyone."

The click of heels filled my ears. "I hear you on that one." Joining my side at the railing and crossing her arms over the structure, she displayed a glowing smile. "It's beautiful, this night."

"Indeed it is." I nodded. "Reminds me of back home. The hang of the moon in the sky, the look over the city and townsfolk below. Reminds me of the moonlit walks I would take. Granted, they were with the advisor of my parents. But I still enjoyed them nonetheless."

"Your home is certainly an enigma," Cordelia replied, her eyes never wavering from the sights straight ahead. "I'd like to learn more about it, if nothing else than for curiosity's sake."

I scratched the back of my head. "Well, there's not much I really know about it, I was young at the time. And even if I did, I doubt it would make much sense to tell; it has changed drastically from my parents' time."

Cordelia hummed in understanding. "What were your parents like?" was the next question she asked. "I remember you saying you had a strong relationship with your father."

As I thought about my mother, the fires of hell crackled and popped as a laughter of pure evil rang through my ears, shuddering my very core. "My mother was scary as hell, I will make that known for sure."

Cordelia raised a brow in question. "Scary?"

"She was certainly the model warrior ruler, she could put the khans of Ferox to shame," I sweatdropped. "In fact, she even managed to defeat the East-Khan in her prime."

This caused the pegasus knight to whip her head in surprise. "Wait, seriously?! She beat Flavia?"

"With ease, might I add," I continued. "It's the only time Flavia has ever lost a duel in the 22 years she's wielded a blade. Hell, even my father was scared of her. Surprised he married her, all things considered."

"She sounds crazy…" the redhead weakly laughed.

I breathed out a good laugh, remembering back to that one time I was caught pranking one of the servants. I was in for it once I saw her flaming orbs one called eyes and her holding a belt. Scared the everliving hell out of me.

"When do you plan on going back?" Cordelia asked.

I cupped my chin in thought. "I really don't know. Perhaps I might not even go back."

"What? Why?"

"Because," I sighed. "I would miss everyone here, as weird as it sounds. Gaius, Chrom, Robin, the Shepherds as a whole."

Cordelia's gaze fell. "Oh…"

"And I would miss you most of all."

The redhead's gaze lifted back up to face me. An expression of surprise written on her face, soon replaced with a smile. "I don't see why you would miss me, Eric. You don't think you can get rid of me that easy, do you?"

"Huh?"

She shook her head. "Idiot… you wouldn't miss me because I'd be there with you."

I tilted my head. "But what about your family here? Your friends? You built your entire life here."

"Doesn't mean I can't build a new one in a different land," she answered quickly without hesitation. "And besides…" A soft, slender hand slid across my cheek. "It took me a year to finally call you mine. No way in hell I'm letting you go like that."

I couldn't retort this. I was left dumbstruck, the only thought running through my head was that this woman was godsdamned amazing. Chrom may be the one who got married, but I feel like I'm the happiest man on the face of the earth.

"I love you, Cherry," I laughed.

"I love you too," she giggled, before placing her lips against mine.

It wouldn't be until after the fact that the two of us realized that we had a little bit of an audience. INCLUDING the newly wedded couple.

FD: And Chapter 6 is complete! Apologies for the long wait. I believe it's been nearly two months since then, but rest assured, this story is not dead and hopefully neither is your interest in it!

Deadpool: Can someone say desperate?

FD: No, but we can all say "bitch-made". How's Midna doing, by the way?

Deadpool: ...Ffffffff-

*Olivia glares at the red-wearing merc, causing him to shudder and sweat profusely*

FD: Chalkboard anyone? I believe that is four points for me right now.

Lancer: Anyway, I believe that is where this chapter comes to its end.

FD: Right. School has been currently hitting me everywhere that it can, and it hurts. And the story at this point feels slow to me, but I can endure until the real interesting parts start rolling. I give my special thanks to Tychon and Lance Eterna, yes that is his name, for being my first, and most consistent readers.

Lancer/Tychon: The pleasure is ours.

FD: Fell Dragonite and dragons out.