Memories of Broken Melodies

by Sakura108645

The bell ran thrice. Three individuals are suddenly thrown into a new world. One who knew of it, two who did not. The three were separated and now desperately searching for each other. Accompany them are strange rings with the spirits of people like them. But, why were they in Elyos? Why were they suddenly in a place they had absolutely no connection to? Or...was there more?

10. Chapter 10: Bloody Gears of Fate

Chapter 10: Bloody Gears of Fate

[-]

"Alright, let's see." Nanami said as she was at her house, "I'll be packing everything."

She then heard her door open and saw Timerra, Fogado, Panette, Merrin, Pandreo, and Bunet. It was safe to say the group was stunned seeing so many things laid out on the floor plus, the shoulder purse Nanami wore, she had it open. How could one tiny 5'4 human carry so much?

"You can't carry all that!" Timerra said seeing all the things Nanami had packed.

Tomes, clothing, books, food, knife, potions, poisons, the list kept going on and on. The whole bed was filled plus there was still her suitcase to fill up! Fogado picked up one of the woman's backpacks and swung it on his back only to let out a shriek as he fell back.

"This isn't even that heavy," Panette said as she also picked up the bag but Pandreo couldn't even lift it.

"You never know when you need things." Nanami said as she got up and finished packing one bag, "Besides, all this," she stretched out her hands to showcase the things she had out, "are going into my purse."

"How is all this going to fit into that?!" Everyone said as they pointed to her purse.

"Oh, that's easy." Nanami grinned, "Rumba taught me the expansion spell. He said I can use it on my purse to let me carry anything I wanted! So, I figured my purse would be perfect! Plus," she held up a wand, "I got a wand!"

It was temporary until she got a proper magic tool that was compatible with her. The expansion charm brought Nanami so much joy because she could carry everything in her house there. She had so many things and of course, spells to summon specific items from it. The nerd in her attempted the spell he who should be named out of fun at a dead tree. Nothing happened, which honestly was a pity. At least she had a wand to practice the spells Rumba had been teaching her.

"Oh! Bunet! Here!" Nanami quickly went to her shelf and picked up a small suite case, then walked up to him, "This is for you."

"Oh, what's this?" Bunet asked with a raised eyebrow and she motioned him to open it.

With a click, the suite case opened and the group was confused to see a flat silver metallic piece with a gear and numbers, as well as some magic crystal spheres.

"I think I should explain what it is." She motioned them all to the kitchen, "So this magic tool is called a portable camping stove." She said as she placed the portable stove on the table, "So you press this button here, and it turns on the flame." Before them, a small circle of flames formed under the metal where you would place a pot, "This gear here lets you adjust the heat to what you want." She demonstrated and heard a series of "Oohhhhhhh~"

"Also, it's powered by these magic crystals." Nanami picked up one of the red spheres, "Rumba told him that magic crystals have different colors that represent magic. So I used these Fire crystals as a source of energy. Each crystal will last you for six months. And, happy belated birthday!" The girl grinned and Bunet looked at her shocked before a smile formed on his face.

"Thank you, truly. You didn't have to." He said and Nanami chuckled.

"Hey, from one chef to another."

It was going to take a few days for them to reach the Northern fortress yet there was something in the air that made Nanami feel anxious.

- Brodia -

It was safe to say no one had ever seen King Morion rush to The Northern Castle with his sons like a blazing bullet. All because of the news that his wife and mother of his children had finally awakened after a five-year-long sleep from her illness. The king and his family had to come to the castle in secret to be able to see the queen. They ran to the room but Oniyuri quickly stopped them and told them to be careful and enter quietly. And so they did, and Morion froze in his steps as purple eyes turned to look his way then crinkled with a small smile as they sat on the bed.

"My love, it's been so long." Queen Opal said and then saw her sons, "Diamant? Alcryst? Is that you, my boys?" The queen said, shocked as the three slowly made their way to her.

Morion wasn't one to cry. Tears did not need to be shed in the nation of strength and might. But in the presence of his wife, Morion would show the more vulnerable side of him. Seeing this, Martha and Oniyuri excused themselves and left the room, allowing the family to speak to one another in private.

Martha smiled softly as she closed the door but then looked over to Oniyuri.

"How do you think they are going to take the news that a new crown princess is going to be born in three months?" Oniyuri said and Martha held three fingers up.

"Three, two, one." Martha's mouth and then...

"WE'RE GOING TO BE BIG BROTHERS?!"

Alcryst screeched like a banshee and the poor brownies of the castle glared at the door before they all processed what was just said. They began to chitter and chatter among themselves before all scurried to quickly clean and transform the place to squeaky clean. The news that a new family member, a little princess, was soon to be born in the future, sent the faeries of the castle to excitement.

"Morion is embarrassed along with the queen because they were getting quite busy before she fell sick. The magic spell placed on her allowed her to sleep but also slow the growth of the child. It was only this year that for some reason the spell started to become weak and the child in her belly started to grow. Even I don't understand why." Martha sighed but smiled looking at the door, "Well, Brodia is going to be happy hearing the news that the queen has partly recovered and a little princess is to be born." She giggled.

"So are you and Albert working on number seven then?" Oniyuri teased but suddenly regretted it because Martha was blushing and smiling in bliss as the older woman put her hands on her cheeks.

"We hope to have three more in the future."

Oniyuri cringed. Then again, she also wants her own family in the future. She and Eden spoke of it and hoped that in a few years, they would start their own family. Both discussed they want at least for children. But if they are blessed with more, they would be happy. But for now, they were enjoying their married life.

- 30 minutes later -

"Five years?" Opal's eyes went wide, "I have been asleep for that long?" The queen said as Morion sat by her side, nodding, "Goodness...Oh, I wish I could have been there for you all. Look at my boys," Alcryst and Diamant smiled sadly, "you both have grown so much! Diamant and Alcryst you both have your father's fire in your eyes! And so tall! I remember you both when you would both cling to me when you were children. Or when Alcryst would beg for Oniyuri to carry him." Queen Opal gushed as the two princes' ears were turning red.

"Hahaha!" King Morion let out a boisterous laugh, "I see you still love teasing them." The king smiled as he leaned on each other, "Martha. Oniyuri, thank you both. It's been...so long since I've held my wife like this."

"Oh, you should not be thanking us," Oniyuri said as the royal family looked at her confused.

"Oh! Do you mean the girl with black hair?" Queen Opal said, "Where is she? Oh, and the crimson-haired woman with green and red eyes as well." She said and the king looked at her confused.

"It was Perla who woke up my wife?" King Morion said and Martha nodded along with Oniyuri, "But who is the crimson-haired woman my wife mentioned?" The two women shrugged lying that they did not know.

"Where is Perla?" Alcryst asked and Martha let out a nervous chuckle.

"Umm...well..."

[—-]

Diamant just stared at the passed-out woman that lay on the couch. Perla had a wet folded towel over her eyes, soft snores could be heard coming from her. The prince let out a small sigh of relief and smiled softly, kneeling as he took a closer look at her.

"Thank you. You saved my mother. Truly...I am grateful." Diamant whispered and stood up, leaving the room quietly unaware that once he was gone, Perla slowly removed the water towel, her eyes wide, and feeling her face becoming hotter by the second.

"Uh oh~" Sophia's voice sang in her mind as the surgeon covered her face, "I think Diamant likes you."

"Please...Just shut up..."

- Lythos -

"And then the divine dragon attacked! Miguel right behind him, having each other's backs!"

"Oh, you two fought wonderfully together! Not to also mentioned, Alear Engaged! Oooooh! How I wish I could have seen it!"

"To Alear's victory!"

Miguel's sweat dropped seeing how Alear looked like a scared chihuahua who just got caught doing something stupid. Still, the young man was just stunned and confused using the power of an Emblem for the first time. Not that he blamed him, even Miguel was stunned by the sight of an emblem and Alear's prowess, but even more so, such power amazed him. But at the moment, it is best to allow Alear to have a break before even attempting to info dump any more stuff on him.

"Alright!" Miguel clapped loudly to get everyone's attention, "With the events that happened today, I think it's best everyone gets some rest before we go to work to help the injured and repair the castle. So, I'll make lunch today. And Lumera," the man turned to look at the queen who looked at him puzzled, "please go get some rest. I can tell you're trying to keep yourself from passing out." The queen's eyes went wide as well as everyone else.

"Vander, the twins, Alear, and I will help the people. Right now your health is important." He said as the queen became silent, "So please, go rest."

Queen Lumera let out a sigh and a bitter smile formed on her lips, nodding.

"He's just like you Maria...nothing escaped her eyes." She thought then spoke, "Very well. I will rest for a while. I am looking forward to the meal you make. I don't think I've had the opportunity to try your cooking before." Lumera said as the twins all looked excited.

"Queen Lumera, Miguel's food is the best! He made us a few dishes from his home and we've never tasted anything like it!" Clanne said, "But um...I think we gained a bit of weight because his food is so good." Framme chuckled a bit embarrassed.

"My food is alright. Once Nanami is found, you'll wish she is the one that makes all your meals." Miguel chuckled.

Lumera excused herself and Vander escorted her to her room. As for Alear, the twins, and Miguel, they headed to the Sommiel where the kitchen awaited them. It's only been a couple hours since the battle and for Alear, being able to sit down and rest for a bit helped release the tension he had in his body. He blinked when a glass cup of water was placed in front of him. The divine one looked up to him surprised and Miguel just smiled a bit. Now that he could see Miguel up close, the skin under the man's eyes was a bit dark. Had he not been sleeping?

"How are you holding up?" Miguel asked as he sat down across from it, "Still a bit tense because of the corrupted?" He asked and Alear nodded, picking up his glass cup.

He stared at the clear liquid, his reflection looking back at him.

"I apologize if I froze back there...I just...When I saw the corrupted, I just...froze. It felt like someone poured ice on me and I couldn't move." Alear said as Miguel smiled a bit sadly.

"PTSD." Miguel said and Alear looked at him confused, "Post-traumatic stress disorder. A disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear triggers many split-second changes in the body to help defend against danger or to avoid it." Miguel explained as Alear listened, "Even if you no longer have your memories of the past, your body remembers. The war from 1,000 years ago must have been...very traumatic for you." He said and Alear looked down to the ground.

"Is that...what they call my reaction where you come from?" Alear asked and Miguel nodded.

"It's nothing to be ashamed of. I have PTSD." Miguel said and Alear looked at him confused, "Ah, I have yet to tell you." The man said, "I come from another world, just like Marth." He said and Alear's eyes went wide and suddenly Marth appeared, making the two men jump.

"As I thought." Marth said, "And I apologize for scaring you both. Being able to rest after a long while has helped me recuperate. How are you doing, Alear?" The prince asked and Alear smiled a bit nervously.

"A bit better. I think you overheard the conversation just now." Alear said and the two looked at Miguel to continue.

"Thank you. As I was saying, I come from another world. I know...it's hard to believe but you can speak to Lumera after this. I have no idea how I arrived here. And when I first arrived in Lythos, I also learned that my sisters are in this world as well. Though...sigh..." Miguel sighed and glanced to the side with a bitter smile, "I've located one so far. Still haven't found the youngest. I only hope she is safe." He said.

"I hope you find them." Alear said, "Out of curiosity, what were you in your world?" He asked and Miguel chuckled nervously.

"I was a sniper in my country's military. I left it recently due to...personal reasons. Ones I will not disclose of." Miguel said, "The other reason is because I had not been with my family in a long time. My sister, her name is Perla, is also part of the military like me, but she was a doctor. As for the youngest, her name is Natalie, but we call her Nanami." He said and Alear wished at the name.

"The military..." Marth muttered and held his chin in thought, "You say this...it sounds familiar. Someone comes to mind but I can't remember who." The prince said as the two looked at him puzzled, "It's alright. No need to worry about it. But, I am glad to fight beside you both. Seeing you fight together reminded me of the past when Alear would fight beside Ermos." He said.

"I'm curious, what was I like in the past?" Alear asked and for a moment, Marth became stiff but smiled a bit, "You knew me back then. You must be able to tell me something.

"Well..." Marth was hesitant, "You were kind. Just as you are now. There is no need to remember everything at once. Take your time. Ease back into your memories. Lumera advised that to you, didn't she?" He said and noticed how Miguel's eyes narrowed just a bit.

"You're right. I'm sorry for being impatient." Alear said and Marth smiled a bit.

"It's alright. I know this is sudden but, I can tell you both have questions about the one that fought beside Alear." Marth said, "Ermos was Alear's retainer. He was an amazing mage knight, as well as a tactician. And like you both, he too was an Emblem wielder." The prince said as they listened, "As for Maria, she was originally from Solm but eventually became Lumera's right hand. She also wielded an Emblem." He said as they listened.

"I'm looking forward to hearing more stories about my great-grandparents. They never told us much about their past." Miguel thought as they chatted away.

The hours passed and what felt like a dream, it was soon time to go to sleep. The group enjoyed the meal Miguel made them and they thanked him. Each went to their room to sleep. But that night, was different. That night, Miguel had a dream.

It is said that at times, the wielder of an Emblem will dream about the life of the hero they are partners with. In those dreams, they see the highs and lows, battles that raged on, hardships that scar, and hope that is born anew.

In the dream Miguel saw, he stood before a kingdom of might. Where the lands were in the sky and the oceans in the ground. People dressed in white and sang songs. There is a throne room of pure white stone and fluttering songs, stood a man dressed in gold and white robes. Beside him was a woman also dressed in similar clothing but her hair was black as stone. Her gentle eyes and a warm smile touched his heart.

Then he noticed, in her arms she held a young girl with silver hair and red eyes, and the man held another young girl. But the girl had aquamarine hair and golden-red eyes. Yet, both girls had identical faces. The one with golden-red eyes had a blank expression but her eyes sparkled seeing her twin, the woman, and the man laugh.

And then the scene cracked.

The glass shattered on the impact on the marble floor that was now destroyed. People screaming running for their lives as they were cut down by forces that could not be seen. The black-haired woman ran and ran for her life as she carried the two girls. The hooded man behind her, commanded his soldiers to protect them.

Beside the woman ran another woman with aquamarine-colored hair and in her arms, she carried a girl with the same color hair as hers. Miguel watched as the two stopped and dodge left and right to avoid the enemy.

And then... they plunged into a pool of water. They plunged deeper and deeper till suddenly instead of falling, they were going up. They ended at a weathered bridge before they quickly hugged their girls tightly, holding back their tears.

And then the dream ended abruptly.

BOOM!

Miguel abruptly shot awake and rolled off his bed, quickly scrambling to the door. He slammed it open and looks like he wasn't the only one. Alear and Vander as well, soon followed by the twins. Miguel knew the tremors better than anyone else.

"Everyone get ready! We're under attack!" Miguel yelled and he didn't care if he was in a damn t-shirt and shorts, everyone scrambled to grab their weapons and put on their armor.

After that was done, they ran towards the warping tile and quickly made it to the garden of the castle, shocked seeing soldiers fighting but most of all the soldiers wore dark green armor with a crest symbol that the Lythos trio instantly recognized. Marth appears beside them, shocked by the scene. It was an enemy raid. Why was such a thing happening? Those with ill and hostile intentions should not be able to enter the castle because of the barrier Lumera had. It would cause them to lose their will to fight but...

"That armor...Those are soldiers from The kingdom of Elusia!" Vander yelled and Alear along with Miguel looked at him.

"Elusia?!" Alear said and Framme nodded, her expression grave, "From the outset, Brodia, who has had worries about the threats of Elusia's belief in the Fell Dragon, they threw their military weight around, and war has continued between the two nations for years." Vander explained as the two gulped.

"If the corrupted have appeared...They are said to be soldiers of Sombron." Clanne said and then it clicked to Miguel.

Miguel suddenly remembered the bloody history between Elusia and Brodia. Brodia is known as a warmongering nation, constantly trying to conquer lands. The only reason Brodia had not invaded Firene and Solm was because of the peace talks and a non-aggression pact. At some point in time, Brodia and Elusia nearly formed a non-aggression pact but then the crown princess of Brodia, the Queen Mother of Elusia along with the crown princess, passed away, causing tensions to rise,

"In desperate times..." Miguel muttered as the group turned to look at him, "People will resort to anything to stop fighting. Elusia worships the fell dragon. That means if Alear has now awakened...the corrupted appearing..." he slowly looked up to them, his expression pale and grave, "That means the Fell Dragon has been resurrected!" He yelled.

Alear froze, his blood turned cold as fear filled his body, and the gravity of the situation fell on all. If this was true then-

"It turns out Lythos doesn't only have five rings."

A cold, smoky, and female voice was suddenly in Alear's ears. Nothing but hate and malice the young man felt behind him.

"I'll take that ring too." The female voice said and Alear instantly summoned his sword and swung behind him.

Quickly flying back, a female floating, surrounded by dark magic, and wearing a black cloak covering her whole body, clicked her teeth. The group quickly was on guard, weapons ready.

"Who the fuck are you?!" Miguel yelled, raising his lance and pointing it at her.

"I hear battle! If they are attacking here..." Marth's eyes suddenly went wide, "I can hear my companions calling out for help!" He yelled.

"They're after the ring chamber!" Framme yelled and the cloaked woman cackled as a tome glowing with black magic appeared in her hands.

Alear wanted to run away. The fear in his body screamed for it but he knew it was wrong. He gritted his teeth and got into battle position, ready to fight.

"Marth! Everyone! Lend me your strength!" Alear yelled and pointed his sword at the woman, "I won't hand over the rings to someone like you!" He roared, Marth, appearing beside him.

"Hooo? The Emblem of Beginnings...So that's your Emblem ring? Sighhh..." the woman sighed but suddenly began chewing her nails, her eyes wide with insanity and lust as she looked at Marth, "I want it. I want it. I want it...I want to make it mine...right now!" And she charged, laughing madly as she glowed brightly.

"Everyone, follow me!" Alear yelled and hell ensued.

- At the same time in Solm -

Many stories were born in the desert over the years but they were not as terrifying as the stories that came about of the northern fortress. The fortress was constructed 1,000 years ago during the fell war to lock away criminals and eventually was abandoned. Now it was just an empty place, where none would even dare enter. Stories that vestal witches and souls of the damn made the northern fortress their home. But it was also at some point in time a military base for Solm's army when 400 years ago it was in a war with Brodia to keep the warmonger nation away from its lands.

Now, the old fortress was used for hiding Solm's second Emblem, The Ring of The Crux of Fate. It was hidden deep within the northern fortress in a room with a barrier that protected it from dark forces. And because of all the rumors, no one dared to enter the fortress. But with the sudden rise of monsters, and Solm's spies reporting about resurrection spells being performed in Elusia in attempting to revive the fell dragon, it was natural for the queen and her court to be on guard.

Arriving at the top of the dune hills, The Sentinels looked down at the northern fortress slowly being illuminated but the first rays of dawn. Timerra was rarely serious but today there was a heavy atmosphere. The Northern Fortress was built in a similar structure to The Silver Maiden in Three Houses. Tall, giant, thick stone walls, impossible to break through unless you unleashed a nuclear bomb on it. Its walls were of black stone, and there was an eerie air surrounding it. But most of all, they spotted the ghostly apparitions floating around the place.

"There it is, the Northern Fortress." Fogado said as they looked down, "This place gives me the creeps. Why did great-grandmother number 7 have to build a place like this?" He whined but Nanami just kept her eyes on the fortress.

"Too early. Way too early." Nanami thought as the group looked down at the fortress from one of the higher dunes, "Sigh, we're not supposed to be here but the locals reported that lately Corrupted have been seen heading towards it. So, we've come to clean them up." Timerra said with a serious expression.

"Boss, didn't they recently also say that they have been hearing the voice of a woman cry out during the night? As well as the man was seen going in? He hasn't come out in two weeks." The only thing that went through Nanami's head was that it better not be Seadall and if it is, he better be alive.

"We'll have to see for now." Fogado said, "Pandreo and Nanami. Make sure to have the—Nanami are you alright?" The prince said and everyone looked over to the woman who had not said a word.

A bead of sweat ran down her cheek, jaw clenched, biting her lip, eyes slightly wide, and her forehead creased, it was an expression of fear and worry. Nanami sensed something was wrong. Like something was going to happen. There is a saying that those of her culture who come from a background of being able to connect to the spiritual realm, have much sharper intuitions than a normal human. That they can sense things better and are told things through dreams. Her grandmother was fully connected. Her mother was only half because she didn't want to go too deep. But Nanami was only partial.

Or so she believed.

Nanami felt something was going to happen and it wasn't going to be good.

"Nanami!"

Nanami jumped and let out a shuttered breath, and looked at the group, who had worried expressions.

"Are you alright?" Bunet asked, "You look quite pale." He said and Nanami shook her head.

"Sorry...Just...this place is making my senses haywire. There's so much negative spiritual energy that it's making me feel sick." She said and subconsciously touched the necklace Rumba had given her.

It was created to hide her scent, so she would not be detected by any dragons or the supernatural. They were especially attracted to the smell of the stars and the unknown. She needed to be careful.

"I remember Rumba mentioning that some people are more sensitive to spiritual energy. Try to stay close to us. We got your back." Pandreo said, "Would you like me to cast a prayer on you?"

"Yes please."

[—-]

Inside the northern fortress reeked of so much negative spiritual energy that it sent Pandreo and Nanami nearly passing out on the floor. Pannette was on the verge of panicking had it not been for Fogado casting a barrier around them. It allowed the two mages to breathe and cough.

"T-Too much! I think I may have to perform an exorcism!" Pandreo wheezed as he took out his light tome and began chanting a white magic prayer.

Nanami joined in and began to envision the barrier encasing each individually so they would be able to move easily if they need to battle. Finally after what felt like hours but was only minutes, the two mages could breathe properly again.

"Sorry about that." Pandreo said as his sister looked at him worried, "I'm alright. Phew!" The man shook his head, "I don't want to go through that again."

Arisa appeared and looked up ahead, eyes narrowed as she floated in front of them protectively.

"Arisa, do you sense anything?" Fogado asked and the woman remained silent before she glanced at them.

"We should get moving. Looks like Corrin is in trouble along with someone else." She said and the group bolted in the direction Arisa pointed.

It was going to be Nanami's first official battle and she was terrified. She had never fought someone before and let alone an actual fight. She doubt street fights counted. The woman gulped as they kept running and soon arrived.

"What the fuck?!" Nanami yelled out seeing the amount of...corrupted that swarmed the place.

But it was the sight that the vestal witches-Oh, my god, she spotted Faceless! Were fighting against the corrupted.

"Yeah, this place is swarming with corruption! It's definitely haunted!" Timerra said and gasped, "Wait, there's someone over there!" She pointed and everyone looked towards the metal fenced walls that allowed them to see to the other side.

There, in the open area, was a man with long raven hair, wearing a crop top black shirt, a red cape with orange Solm patterns, baggy purple pants with gold, and black dancer sandals, and he had crimson eyes.

"That's Seadall...What is he doing here? My fear came true." Nanami thought as a bead of sweat ran down her cheek.

"RAAAHHH!"

Corrupted suddenly surrounded the group as they charged in and Nanami felt her blood run cold. The corrupted in the game were 3D models of humans wearing black masks with horrific red pushing veins, but now seeing them in real life, it was like every ounce of strength left her body. She wasn't used to fighting. She never once had been in an actual life-or-death fight with her siblings. The corrupted in real life were the most sickening and grotesque thing she had ever seen. Nanami's body began trembling with the scent of rotten flesh and the pale skin of a corpse, and she was frozen in place. A corrupted berserker roared and charged at her, yet she couldn't move. The axe raised, people calling out her name that sounded all muffled, the blade...closer...closer...

CLANK!

In a blink of an eye, green flames exploded around Nanami, warm ghostly hands hugged her from behind, and when she blinked, right in front of her, holding the legendary holy sword, The Sword of The Creator, Arisa stood. The woman's face was cold as well as her eyes as she swung her sword to block the axe that came her way.

"Are you alright?!" Arisa looked back at her as the fighting continued and Nanami's nodded her head frantically, "Good." And looked back at the corrupted who all were now turning towards her, "Shit. Looks like my appearance set them off. Corrin! Can you hear me!" Arisa yelled out.

"We're over here!"

A female voice yelled out but Nanami saw that only she, Seadall, and Arisa reacted to it.

"That guy is not here to steal the ring. I think he's trying to protect it!" Timerra said, "Nanami, are you alright?" She yelled.

"I'm fine!" She wasn't, "But we need to get to that man! The Corrupted are after him and the ring! Let's give him a hand! Looks like he could use one!" Nanami yelled.

"Alright, Sentinels! You know what to do!" Fogado yelled, "Merrin aim for the archers! Pannette, watch her back! Create an opening for us to break through!" he ordered and Merrin let out a howl along with her wolf, throwing a dagger at a corrupted archer.

Pannette charged, axe in hand, swung it, unleashing the combat arts, Monster Breaker in one swing, "I'll beat you to a pulp! HYAAA!" And the woman jumped in the air, axe raised and came down, creating a giant crater and obliterating the corrupted.

"Pandreo! Use Fracture to disarm the corrupted! Burnet, you know what to do! I got you both covered!" Fogado yelled and summoned his bow.

Three arrows he took out, ready them, pulled the string, muttered a spell to set the arrowheads on fire, and unleashed. Everyone was fighting, and Nanami was still frozen in place but the ghost hands that hugged her whispered.

"It's okay...You can do this..." Arisa had a faint smile, knowing who was guiding Nanami, "Close your eyes. Deep breaths." They said.

Nanami closed her eyes, took deep breaths, and held out her hands.

"Now imagine the weapon you want. Imagine, feel, what do you want to do now?" The voice whispered and Nanami gritted her teeth.

"I want to fight. I want to...fight beside them and protect them!" She said and finally, she saw what she wanted.

Bright magic glowed in her hands and she felt something solid. Taking form, she opened her eyes, they glowed mint green, and The Sword of The Creator in the form of a rapier, formed in her hands. Arisa smirked and now was beside Nanami, the ghost owner of the voice smiled and disappeared.

"Thank you, Sothis." Arisa thought and summoned her sword, the two back to back, "Ready?" Nanami nodded firmly, "Let's go!" And Nanami charged.

It was as if she had been using a rapier all her life. The movements, the steps, poise, graceful yet aggressive as cut down corrupted after corrupted. The two move swiftly, quickly making their way to where they need to. Nanami saw Seadall surrounded, on the verge of being attacked from behind when she cut the corrupt. The dancer was stunned, seeing who had come to rescue him.

"Are you alright?" Nanami said and Seadall snapped out of it.

"Who are you?!" Seadall said, glaring, "I'm not your enemy. My name is Nanami, Apprentice of Solm's court mage." Nanami said and Seadall looked at her stunned.

"Court mage, you say? Huh...This is slightly different from what my cards told me. But, unexpected sources indeed. Thank you. I am Seadall, a traveling dancer." Seadall introduced himself, "I was out here rehearsing as well as investigating the recent rise of monsters when those creatures appeared. A talking ring called me to safety." The dancer said and pulled out the ring.

Corrin's ring was a silver ring with a diamond, it's beautiful shine glistened in the dawn light.

"That's an Emblem," Nanami said and Arisa quickly appeared, making the dancer jump.

"Corrin! Are you alright?!" Arisa said and the diamond on the ring glowed a bit.

"I'm alright!" Corrin said, "As much as I wish to introduce myself, behind you!" The woman screamed and Nanami pushed Seadall behind her, spun her body, and jumped, "HYYAA!" And threw a fly kick at the corrupted mage that charged at them.

"Incredible..." Seadall gasped, "To think I would be witnessing one of the godlike figures of legend..." the dancer said.

"Seadall, I know this sudden," Nanami quickly turned to him, "But can you h—?!"

Ruuuummbbblllleeee...

"What is going on?!" Timerra yelled as the entire place started trembling and even the monsters came to a halt, frantically looking around.

Suddenly an ear-piercing inhumane roar blasted all around them. Everyone screamed, trying to cover their ears to protect themselves when suddenly the stone roof began to crumble. Monsters ran for their lives and then...

BOOM!

"AHHHHHHH!" Everyone screamed and was sent flying back by a powerful force that collided with the ground.

Pandreo was barely able to stop his, Fogado's, and Bunet's impact with a stone wall and get out of the way of the falling stone rooftop. Panntte managed to swing Timerra over her shoulder and Merrin and her wolf jumped out of the way. But Nanami and Seadall were a different story.

"ACK!" Nanami's and Seadall's backs collided with the stone wall, opposite sides of each other, the impact completely knocking the air out of them.

Nanami towards a stone pillar and Seadall to a stone wall. The impact unfortunately knocked out the dancer and the one that was in his hand flew away, rolling towards a puddle. A piece of stone was on the verge of falling on him when Merrin managed to grab him in time. Nanami fell to the ground, coughing violently, her entire body burning as the hero relic dissolved from her hands.

"Cough! Cough! Blrugh!" Nanami coughed and gagged, her vision spinning and hazed as she struggled to sit up on her knees.

"Gggrrrr..."

The woman froze, her body became still as stone. Her body, instincts, everything told her to run for her life but she couldn't. She couldn't move. She heard the low growl again and looked up, even if she didn't want to. The dust and smoke began to clear, and her brown eyes...

Met hectorcromia ones.

- Lythos -

"Argh!"

Miguel was thrown back and rolled, coughing and trying to catch his breath. But he smirked, making sure to send the bitch of a witch flying back. The cloaked growled and suddenly paused. She then raised her hand to create a portal behind them.

"Hehehehe...How unfortunate that our time is up. I really wanted to keep playing with you, Outworlder." The cloaked woman giggled, "Just what exactly did the defect see in you? No matter." Her smile turned to a scowl, "Looks like I'll just have to help myself to Sitonia and Marth next time." And she disappeared into the black vortex.

"Wait!" Alear yelled but they were gone, "Damn! Their target is the Emblem rings!" he turned to them.

"We must make haste! Queen Lumera must be defending The Ring Vault!" Vander yelled and they nodded.

Right when Miguel was about to run, something crunched under his foot. He paused for a moment as the others went on ahead. He picked it up. It was crimson-blue crystal with an hourglass carving on its surface, as well as a red tassel so it could be tied on a belt.

"What on earth?" Miguel mutter, "The bitch dropped this." He thought and cursed seeing everyone was ahead of him.

He shoved the crystal into his pocket and ran after them. He prayed Lumera was okay.

The five ran and ran through the castle and soon arrived at the hall that led to the ring vault. Elusian soldiers on the ground and sky. Miguel gritted his teeth as blood splattered on his face after ramming his sword into the stomach of an enemy soldier. Alear was beside him in Enage form, and he could tell Framme and Clanne were starting to get tired from casting so many spells. Vander as well. There were too many soldiers and at the rate, it was going…

"Too many of them. We'll never make it to the ring vault." Alear hissed and wiped his brow, "I don't have much time left in this form."

"Through this door right?"

"Yes, this is it."

"Let's go."

Voices.

Miguel and Alear suddenly heard voices. Suddenly, three arrows shot through the giant door and struck down three Elusian Pegasus knights. The group was stunned and a few seconds later, a young man blonde man with green eyes and a flower circlet, dressed in blue and gold, riding a white horse, charged into the room. Beside him an orange-haired woman and a man with brown hair.

"Rah!" The blonde-haired one rammed his lance right into an Elusian knight and sent them falling off the edge of the hall.

"Made it, not a moment too soon!" the young man said as he jumped off his horse and two others joined him, "Crown Prince of Firene Alfred is here to help!" He yelled.

"Prince Alfred...of Firene?" Alear said, stunned and confused as the prince nodded, his retainers beside him.

"Could it be? Are you the Divine Dragon Alear?" Alfred asked and Alear nodded, "You finally woke up!"

"I did. Yes." Alear said, "That's a—" Another explosion was heard and this time it shook the castle.

"I hate to interrupt but we got soldiers coming our way!" Miguel yelled and everyone quickly got ready, "Alear, do you mind if I take command?" He asked and Alear nodded, approving, "Thanks!"

Miguel quickly scanned their surroundings. The hall to the ring vault was large and wide but because of the battle, there were several giant stone debris. Three pegasus knights were shot down earlier leaving two on the left and one on the right. There were two swordsmen in the front, two mages in the back, and an armored knight, most likely the leader, near the entrance of the ring vault.

"I got it." Miguel thought, "You with the bow!" He said and the orange-haired girl with ribbons narrowed her eyes, "Two in the sky on the left and one on the right. See that stone debris?" He pointed at it and she nodded, "There's your cover. Shoot those bastards down. Clanne, watch her back and take down the mage that is a few feet from us." He said.

The woman looked and blinked a few times, surprised because the directions he just said would not only allow her to shoot down the first two pegasus knights, she'll be protected if the third one tried to come in.

"Got it." The archer said, "And my name is Eite!" She said and went to do as instructed, Clanne behind her.

"You with the axe!" He said, "My name is Boucheron. At your disposal." Boucheron said and Miguel nodded before turning to Alfred, "Alfred, think you and your friend and take care of those" he pointed to the berserker and two other swordsmen that were blocking their way, "punks over there?"

"No need to say anything." Alfred said as he got back on his horse and spun his lance, "Let me at them!" Alfred yelled and charged forward with Boucheron, "Framme, back them up!" The girl nodded and followed.

"Vander, you and I will create an opening for Alear to get through. We need to get to Lumera." Miguel said and the older knight nodded along with Alear.

The group charged, swords, axes, lances, and magic clashing as they fought their way through. Blood spilled and soon they arrived at the enemy general. A blonde woman dressed in heavy armor, eyes cold as ice, a shield and axe ready to fight.

"Out of loyalty to my master, you shall not pass!" The woman yelled.

"Why are you doing this?!" Alear yelled but the woman only prepared to fight.

"I have no words for you. My purpose right now is to defend this hallway with my life." The woman said and another explosion was heard, the force causing the place to shake again.

They needed to get to Lumera!

In the ring vault, Lumera held a smile that was anything but kind as her sword, Libération, in her hands glowed with intense divine power. Sigurd was beside her, eyes cold, as the cloaked woman gritted her teeth. She didn't expect the Divine Dragon Queen to land a blow on her. Still, seeing Lumera, the queen that was said to be all loving-kindness, with slit blue eyes that screamed that she was ready to rip her to pieces with a sweet smile... Something within her body screamed to get away from the Dragon Queen. The cloaked woman twitched, feeling the barrier around the castle waver again. Her lips curled into a smile as Lumara raised her hand, ready to Engage with Sigurd when...

"G...!"

Seeing Lumera suddenly slap her hands over her mouth, vomiting blood. Even more, joy filled the cloaked woman when she felt the barrier crack. A chuckle left her lips as her tome glowed again. It was so beautiful seeing the Divine Dragon Queen struggle and desperately pleading Sigurd to Engage but the knight refused.

"Absolutely not! Not when you're in this state!" Sigurd said as Lumera shook her head, struggling now to stay standing and wheezing as blood dripped from her lips.

"I'm...okay. I can still fight..." Lumera croaked, looking out to the knight.

"Don't be absurd! You'll die!" Sigurd said but Lumera didn't care as she forced herself to stand up.

There it was...despite being bloody, weak, and wounded, Lumera's slit eyes glared furiously at the cloaked woman who grinned. Even if blood poured from her lips, even if her bones were broken, she would fight.

"I am...The Divine Dragon Queen!" Lumera yelled, raising Libération, "UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES I WILL HAND OVER THE RINGS!" The woman roared and lunged, scales forming on her cheeks, showing her draconic origin.

"Alear...Ermos...Maria..." Lumera said as she slashed and jumped at the cloaked woman, "Ruby, Alma, Oscar, Francis...My husband..." she growled, "They all risked their lives 1,000 years ago to save this world! I won't give them up!" She yelled and spun her body to throw a kick but the cloaked woman suddenly disappeared.

"What?" Lumera gasped but...

"Too slow." The cloaked woman suddenly said in her ear.

Time seemed to slow down for Lumera as she turned, her eyes widening as a blast of black fire...hit her and sent her flying back. An explosion took place, once again shaking the entire castle. Lumera fell to the ground, voices muffled as Sigurd called out her name. She didn't even have time to react when black chains suddenly wrapped around her arms and suspended her in the air. Sigurd's attacks were met with a smirk by the enemy when his attack went through her.

"Emblems are projections. If the ring has no owner, they have no impact on the material world." The cloaked woman said as she walked up, "He can't help you anymore." She smiled, and grabbed Lumera by the chin, forcing her to look up.

"But..." Lumera narrowed her eyes, "I can spare you, in exchange for Sigurd's ring and the Outwolder." The Queen froze, her eyes widening, "It's so rare to find a human who can withstand our draconic auras. Especially that of a Fell Dragon. Only someone from the Lycinth clan who has gone on the path of vengeance is capable of such a thing." She chuckled as Lumera began trembling.

"Never!" Lumera yelled, "I'll never hand either of them to you!" She roared and the cloaked woman sighed.

"Suite yourself." The cloaked woman said and black flames surrounded Lumera.

"LUMERA!" Sigurd yelled.

"Die!"

BOOOM!

"GhA!" The cloaked woman screamed as she was sent flying back and barely managed to move out of the way on time, only to see the body of the Elusian woman that was ordered to guard the vault crash onto the floor.

A hole through her chest, the cloaked woman growled furiously as now standing in front of Lumera was Alear in Engage form and Miguel beside him.

"Whoever it is you are, the rest of your forces have all been defeated. So surrender now. If you refuse, We will stop you." Alear said coldly, his sword drawn.

"You two...came..." Lumera said, a weak yet warm smile on her face as the chains that bound her broke and she fell.

"Queen Lumera!" Vander caught her on time, "Rest easy, you are now safe." He said and the queen nodded and was helped to stand up.

"How cute." The cloaked woman scoffed and then once more disappeared again into a black portal, then suddenly appearing behind them.

"But how?!" Alear said suddenly a fist covered in darkness met his and Miguel's stomach, sending them crashing into a wall.

"That was fear in your voice." The cloaked woman said as she flew towards Alear and Miguel coughed violently as he lay on the ground on his stomach, wheezing, and blood pouring from his lips, "Time to die." The woman laughed and a circle of black flames surrounded Alear.

Miguel tried to crawl, his hand reaching out towards the prince when white and gold zoomed past him.

"NO!" Lumera screamed and lunged, pushing Alear out of the way.

The black flames explode and rose.

"AHHHHHHHHHH!" Lumera screamed and the woman laughed but all Miguel could do was scream, his hand reaching out as he saw Lumera smile, the life leaving her eyes, her final words...

"Live..."

"LUMERA!" Miguel screamed and watched as the woman fell to the ground, her body covered in burns and life gone from her eyes, "No...No...No..." Miguel croaked, again trying to crawl towards the queen.

His heart began pounding, his breath becoming rapid, and images of blood and the body of someone close to him flashed before his eyes. It was happening again. He failed again. He failed to protect someone he cared for. All he could hear was cackling the voice of the one who killed the one he was close to and the cloaked woman's cackle, merging. His vision was starting to go black when the world around him suddenly turned black and white. Darkness began to surround him and the sound of heels clinking was heard.

"How pitiful..."

A distorted female voice, alluring, and emotionless spoke in the darkness. It sounded as if she was underwater. The voice let out a sigh and spoke once more.

"Queen Lumera sacrificed her life to save her child. Just as fate has written." They said, "The queen is dead. What will you do now?" She asked.

"I failed...I failed again..." Miguel croaked in the darkness, "Why? Why does this always happen when I care about someone? Why...Why dammit?!" He wept and the voice let out another sigh.

"Why do you even care about these people?" The female voice said and Miguel froze, "What?" He said coldly as rage suddenly bubbled in his chest.

"This world...this war...these people..." the female voice said in the darkness that Miguel lay in, "They have no business with you. You shouldn't even be involved. You have no business with them either." She said coldly.

"Why should you even care about them? Why should you even help them? You're not part of their world even if your family came from here." She said and scoffed.

"Lumera is supposed to die. It's all written. Why are you involved in her problems? Or is there something else?" The voice scoffed again, "Nations fighting again..."

The was anger, and rage, but sorrow in that voice. Miguel gritted his teeth, hands balling to fists as the man tried to get up.

"So?" He said and the voice remained silent, "Even if I am not part of this world, they showed me one thing." He growled, "Kindness. The first person I met in this world showed me kindness. They listened to my story. The queen had patience with me. The twins showed me what it was like to care about myself again. Vander showed me there was more to being a soldier. Alear I'm getting to know him but he's kind and gentle." He said and the voice seemed to smile.

"Ah, but you...You're vengeful aren't you?" Miguel froze, "Not just you. Your sisters as well. Vengeance...that's what you want against the one you saw kill Lumera." The voice giggled.

"But vengeance's scars remain in your heart. You took revenge on someone who you once considered a friend because of what they did to your other friend. You destroyed their lives. You're not proud but you feel no remorse." The voice as Miguel remained silent and suddenly before him was a ghostly apparition.

It knelt and placed a hand over his eyes.

"Tell me, if you could save Lumera, would you do it?" The voice said and Miguel gritted his teeth, starting to force himself to get up, even if his body was in agony.

He was unaware that the stone he had found earlier began to crack.

"If I could go back...If I could go back...At least...I don't want to lose someone I care about again!" He yelled and the world around them started to crack, "I don't care if I'm not from this world! I've lost so much already! My great-grandparents, grandparents, my parents, the woman I once loved, my friends...My sisters...I WON'T ALLOW ANYONE TO SUFFER AGAIN!" He roared and the ghostly apparition smiled, "Fuck whatever story was written! I won't allow Lumera to die! Not her! Not Alear! NOT ANYONE!" He yelled and the voice smiled.

"Tell me, why should I, Queen of Valla, lend you my strength? Why should I help a mere human like you save the Divine Dragon of this world?" The distorted female voice said in the darkness as Miguel clutched the strange-colored stone to his chest.

His eyes stung, he wanted to cry but after so much he had been through, the tears wouldn't come out. The hooded woman killed Lumera before his eyes. He couldn't do anything. He was a soldier, he was supposed to protect her!

"Please...I know damn well I'm powerless in this damn world!" He yelled, "But she was kind to me! She, Alear, Vander, the twins, Marth, Sigurd, Veyle! This world may not be mine but I for sure am not going to stand back and watch it damn those who were kind!" He roared and the voice was silent.

"Sigh..." the voice sighed, "You're just like me..." they said, "I was once someone bounded by duty, to uphold honor and hope. But I gladly chose to rewrite the story." They said and then smirked.

"Alright. I grant you your wish." The apparition said and held out their hands to him, "Curse your fate. Rewrite your fate. Curse the written destiny. Shatter it. Rewrite it. Cut your own path. DAMN, ALL FATE AND TAKE THE REINS!" They screamed and Miguel took their hands, "LET NO ONE COMMAND YOU HOW YOUR STORY IS WRITTEN!" And the world shattered.

Water began to surround his body, the seal on Emblem Sitonia cracked and magic poured out of it and into his body. It began to take shape as time rewind itself before his eyes. The scene replayed once more, but this time, it would be different. He will not allow anyone to suffer ever again. His eyes snapped open and they were gold-red slits.

"RAAAHHH!"

The hooded woman gritted her teeth and was forced to jump back as multiple blades of water rained down on her, stopping her from activating the spell that was about to kill Alear. They turned and their eyes went wide, seeing Miguel struggling to get up as water wrapped around his arms and he raised his head, their eyes turning to slits of gold-red as a bow formed in his hands and aimed at them.

"GET AWAY FROM THEM!" Miguel roared, charging with purple, blue, gold, and red lighting and magic.

The cloaked woman's entire body screamed to run but it was too late.

BAM!

The arrow released, unleashing a sound so loud that the castle shook and the stained glass windows of the hallways nearby shattered. The hooded woman unleashed a piercing and agonizing scream as she barely managed to dodge the arrow that went right through her shoulder. They panted and gasped for air, as she place her hand on her shoulder, trembling as she looked up at the man. His hair flickering between brown and a pale blue, his nostrils flared and his eyes cold.

"Heheh...hhahahahah!" The woman burst out laughing and then vomited blood, "Oh! Oh, you truly are Ermos's Blood! Yes! Truly fitting of the Lycinth Clan!" She cackled and pointed a bloody finger at him, "I'll never let you...I will make sure to break you and make you mine." And she warped away, unbestowed to her that a ring dropped on the ground.

Silence fell like a plague. Everyone was stunned but most of all Lumera. For a moment, she thought she was looking at Ermos. Miguel's hair flickered between his original color and aquamarine. His eyes had turned to gold-crimson slits, he had shoulder armor but it was the bow in his hands that she recognized. No one dared move till the weapon in Miguel's hand dissolved and he dropped to the ground, cold. The power that surrounded him returned to his ring.

"Queen Lumera! Prince Alear!" Vander's voice cried out, and along with the twins Lumera snapped out of it and runs to her son but is ordered by the others to attend to Miguel.

"Alear! Alear! Can you hear me?!" Lumera cried out as his son coughed and nodded, "Oh, thank the stars!" The queen wept and embraced her son tightly.

As Framme was about to attend to Miguel, she noticed something glint from where the cloaked woman once was. The girl ran to the area and gasped when she saw a thin gold ring with a pale stone with a strange brand on it. She picked it up and realized what it was.

"Queen Lumera! Divine one!" Framme yelled and turned to them, showing the ring, "It's an Emblem!"

"The enemy must have dropped it after Miguel's attack." Alfred said then turned to his retainers, "Check for any survivors and attend to the wounded!" He ordained the two nodded, leaving.

Framme and Clanne summoned their healing staff and used them on the injured three. Miguel was rolled over onto his back, and it was there when the stone fell out of his pocket. Lumera gasped and picked up the stone.

"A Draconic time crystal...But..." she looked back to Miguel as now Framme was finished healing Alear and now was tending to the soldier, "Miguel...what did you do?" The queen whispered.

- At the same time in Solm -

Nanami jumped barely in time with The Sword of The Creator in her hands as the dragon swung its talons at her again. The dragon before her had purple and black scales that were in the shapes of leaves and petals, as well as a dark blue underbelly. Its forward limbs were wings. The dragon's head had two thin crests of bone, frills that opened when it roared, the right purple, and the other side red. Lastly, its tail had spiky spines and the end opened like a claw.

"Why is it after me?!" Nanami screamed as she again dodged another swipe and managed to get to where Corrin's ring rolled.

"Aahh!" Nanami screamed and jumped and rolled, grabbing Corrin's ring just in time before the swipe got her.

"Hyaaa!"

Timerra came flying out of nowhere and fly-kicked the dragon on its side, sending the creature into a painful roar. The dragon growled and raised its head, black and blue energy began to gather in its jaw and then unleashed.

"Timerra!" Nanami screamed and jumped in front of her, The Sword of The Creator glowed brightly, helping block the energy blast, "Gggrrrr!" Nanami growled, the impact of the force was so much, her arms were shaking but she wasn't going to let them be killed.

But no one was aware of the snake that slithered in the shadows. As Nanami was protecting Timerra, it took the opportunity when the attack ended and lunged. The young woman didn't even have a chance. Before she knew it, she froze, feeling somewhat had sunk its teeth into her neck.

"Nanami!" Timerra screamed and Nanami unleashed an ear-piercing scream, black veins spread all over her body, her eyes rolling back as her body went into shock. But before she felt her body go weak, she grabbed the snake and ripped it off, throwing it away. It hissed and twitched, turning to dust. The woman fell back and Timerra caught her in her arms.

"Nanami! Nanami!" The snake dissolved to dust, "Nanami!" She cried out, the veins on her friend pulsing red and purple, her skin becoming paler by the second, and she was twitching as foam came out of her mouth.

"No..."

Timerra froze and looked up at the dragon, its right eye red and the other purple, but she noticed it had a lotus-shaped gem on its forehead. But...the dragon spoke. She heard it talk! The dragon let out a hiss and then raised its head once more. Nothing but fear filled her body as magic began to gather in its jaw.

"She has become the vessel! SHE MUST DIE!" And the dragon unleashed.

"TIMERRA! NANAMI!" Merrin, Fogado, Panette, Pandreo, Bunet screamed and lunged toward their friends.

Time felt like it slowed down to all, as Timerra hugged tightly her friend and the others joined in as well. At that moment, Arisa's and Corrin's rings unleashed a burst of magic that engulfed the entire place. The group all passed out.

[—-]

"Ti..."

"Time..."

Who?

"Timerra!"

"Boss!"

Timerra's eyes snapped open and she abruptly sat up, frantically looking around. Palm trees, a clear pond of fresh water, camels, horses, and other animals drinking from it as well as fruit trees and a few tents, they were in an oasis in the desert.

"What?" Timerra croaked and saw that Fogado and Panette looked at her relief.

"Thank the divine you're alive!" Fogado cried out and hugged her tightly, Timerra quickly hugged him back and then brought in Panette.

"I'm so happy you're both alive!" The girl said and then gasped, "Wait! The others!" She said and frantically got up.

"We found everyone but..." Pannette bit her lip and closed her eyes painfully, "I'm sorry but Nanami is gone! We can't find her" she said and bowed, "I'm so sorry!"

Timerra prayed, prayed! That her friend was safe.

Meanwhile, in another part of the desert, the dragon let out a mournful roar before its body glowed and turned to dust. In its place was now a woman dressed in gold, purple, and black, with long platinum blonde straight mid-waist hair with streaks of purple, gritting her teeth. But what was most noticeable were her eyes, the right red and the other purple, tears streamed down her cheeks.

"I failed...I failed...Now I have to kill her! Now I have to kill her...Ulp!" The woman wept and stood up even if she was stumbling.

In her hands was a giant axe in the colors of black and gold.

"Don't worry, Sister. I'll find you and release you from your pain." The woman gritted her teeth, "But I promise once we find your brother and sister, we'll make sure to send them back to your home. I promise...I'll kill you and free you." She croaked.

"Oh, gods...Mother, Ermos, and Maria...Please forgive me..."

- ? -

The last thing Nanami remembered was that she was in the middle of a battle. They managed to rescue Seadall on time. She was in the desert with Fogado, Timerra, and the rest of the gang. They were suddenly attacked by a fucken dragon. A black, purple, and red cobra-type dragon with frills and feathered wings. They attacked the corrupted but the second they got their sights on her...

"The dragon...looked like Nel..or was it Nil..." Nanami muttered as she looked up to...the gray cloudy sky.

But then again...anything was possible. Nanami never had the chance to play the DLC of Engage, she only knew snippets of it thanks to the trailer videos. A cough and the taste of iron, that was all she could feel, her body sting. Her neck...stung. She felt...cold. The snake came out of nowhere. It bit her. Her body stung, yet even if she was in the middle of the battle she ripped the thing off her neck. It was as if a rush of adrenaline and madness went into the body but now

"Are you okay?!" Arisa appeared and placed her hand on her chest, quickly activating purify, "Hold on, I'm casting purify."

"Where...are we? I...see snow?" Nanami croaked as Arisa looked at her worried.

"I'm so sorry! Unfortunately one of my skills is Extreme Warp! In a panic, we warp to a random location for safety thanks to Corrin's help." Arisa said and at that moment, Nanami was thankful she had everything she owned in her magic purse.

"T-Ti..merra...Fogado...Seadall...Merrin...Pannette...Bunet...Pandreo...a-are..they safe?" Nanami whispered and Arisa nodded, "Good..." Nanami smiled softly, closing her eyes a bit, "I...feel...so...tried."

"Nanami, don't you dare close your eyes!" Arisa screamed as the tears started to form, "Nanami! NANAMI!" She yelled, "Please! Please! Wake up!" She cried and from the ring, Corrin covered her mouth, trying not to burst into tears.

"In time flows~ See the glow~ of flames ever burning bright~" Arisa began singing once she managed to calm herself enough, "On the wind~ Rivers drift~ broken memories aligned." She kept singing and soon specks of green light began to gather around them and enter Nanami's body, purifying the poison from the snake and healing her bruises.

[—-]

"Ugh...I hate patrolling this place."

"Hortensia, I know this is bad but we have to check on your siblings."

A young girl with bright pink hair with white streaks tied in two knots let out a grunt, and then a whine when she almost tripped because of the deep snow. She had bright pink eyes. She wore a dark blue dress with ruffles, puffy sleeves, and a fur cloak to keep her warm. This is Princess Hortensia, the third princess of Elusia. Beside her was a young man with long silver-purple hair that curled, and he had two pointy buns on his head along with a pink bow. He wore a black shirt, silver armor, and a purple skirt with cute tights and boots. He too wore a fur cape but it was color purple. He had silver-purple eyes. This was Rosado, Princess Hortensia's retainer and friend.

"I know that." Hortensia said, "With the sudden eruption of corrupted and...those weird one-eyes monsters, we have to meet them in secret. Plus, the snow has never been this deep. Sigh...I miss the academy!" The girl whined and a soft chuckle made her pout.

"Now, now, Hortensia," a woman with brown hair tried in a braid spoke with a smile, "Things have just been hectic. I'll be sure to cook us all a nice warm meal once we get to the northern castle." She wore a bright yellow coat and skirt, had green eyes, and also wore a fur cape.

This was Goldmarry, Hortensia's second retainer.

"You're the best, Goldmarry!" Hortensia cheered, "When we get there, we should—"

"In time flows~ See the glow~"

The three came to a halt and looked at each other. They shushed each other and took out their weapons. Carefully they walked through the show, hearing the singing yet mournful voice become louder as they got closer to the area.

"Of flames ever burning bright~ on the wind~ Rivers drift~ broken memories align~ "

"A banshee?" Goldmary whispered and they saw the green light, "No. banshees wail when someone passes. Could it be...an Echoe?" She said and the group looked at each other, gulping.

They hid behind some trees and looked out. All three gasped, seeing before them what they believe to be a goddess on her knees in the snow, her hair glowing mint green as she sang a song. Soon, her body turned to dust, disappearing into the wind. The trio was just stunned as they walked out of the tree but then...

"Wait, someone is lying in the snow!" Goldmary yelled and they ran to where Goddess was and gasped in horror seeing a woman, covered in blood, laying in the snow.

"Who is that?" Hortensia said and they quickly checked for a pulse because of the black veins on her skin, "She's alive!"

"Her clothing...She looks like she's from Solm." Rosado said and then the woman's eyelids twitched.

Her eyes opened just a tad bit, and she turned her head slightly towards Hortensia.

"She's alive!" Hortensia said, "Hey! Come on, stay with us! What happened?" the princess said.

"...Per...la?" The woman croaked, "Sis...You're...Okay..." she whispered and then looked at Rosado, "Miguel...Are..we...home?"

"She's hallucinating." Rosado said gravely and then the woman's eyes were starting to close again, "Come on! Stay with us!" And she was out.

"The castle shouldn't be too far! Goldmarry, can you carry her?" Hortensia said and the woman nodded, carefully picking the unknown woman up.

The group quickly went to their flying mounts and took off towards Elusia's north.

- Firene -

The cloaked woman gasped and panted for air, wheezing as she desperately tried to heal the wound on her shoulder. By now, she would be completely healed but she realized it was the magic of The First Dragons that was used against her by the Outworlder. She gritted her teeth, tears streamed down her cheeks as she cried out in anguish. She had warped into a cave deep in the forest. She must stay alone. Thankfully she sent a message butterfly to Zephia and she was on her way.

"Damn! That man! He...He truly is worthy...Arrghhh!" She whimpered, her hood falling off revealing her black and white hair.

"Lady Veyle! Who did this to you?!"

Zephia appeared and quickly knelt, for a moment, her blood ran cold seeing Veyle's blood spilled before she snapped out of it. She began to cast heal, gritting her teeth and using more of her energy. The wound was not healing normally.

"I'm...Going to have to sleep for quite a while." Veyle grunted, looking up at her with her crimson eyes, "You need to make sure not a scar remains! My defect half will begin to suspect us and she'll be able to null Father's spell! Don't..." she grabbed Zephia's shoulders tightly, "Don't leave any evidence!" And she fell back, her strength leaving her.

"Lady Veyle, who did to you?!" Zephia said and Veyle whispered before her world went dark.

"Si...to...nia's...wilder...The...Outworlder."

The gears of fate...have finally turned.