Phantoms of Ylisse

A fan: I get your points and they are valid. Azure Team aren't idiots. As for using bows and arrows, that was an option I also had in mind. Still thanks for your output.

Disclaimer: I do not own Ghost Recon or Fire Emblem in any way, shape, or form. So, hold off the lawsuits and torches!

V: Negotiations with the Exalt and Dealing with the Mad King


After securing the support of Regna Ferox, the Shepherds and Azure Team, accompanied by Aasimar, returned to Ylisse with promising news for the Exalt.

During their trip back, the group encountered a villager named Donnel. He earnestly implored their assistance in a daring mission: to rescue kidnapped villagers held captive by ruthless bandits who had mercilessly attacked his home. The Shepherds, led by Chrom, and the steadfast Azure, readily agreed to lend their aid. Donnel, the villager, then took the initiative to guide them to the hidden lair of the bandits.

Chrom, displaying his natural leadership, approached Donnel and made a heartfelt request for him to join the fight. Donnel, however, humbly regarded himself as nothing more than a common villager. Notably, Azure harbored reservations about involving a noncombatant in their battle. Yet, with Chrom's inspiring words and Robin's persuasive arguments, Aasimar, acquiesced and granted Donnel an opportunity to evolve and grow. Bolstered by this newfound support, Donnel gathered his resolve and found the courage to stand alongside them in the forthcoming confrontation. Guided by the well-timed precision of Azure's archery skills, due to them needing to save ammo, Donnel not only contributed to the defeat of several bandits but also experienced a profound transformation, growing both in strength and courage. As the group successfully vanquished the bandits and liberated the kidnapped villagers, Donnel expressed his heartfelt desire to join the Shepherds. Chrom, the gracious leader, extended his welcome to Donnel, accepting him into their ranks, despite lingering reservations from Aasimar, who still harbored some doubts about the decision. With that Donnel became a member of the Shepherds.

They entered the palace, where Chrom, Robin, Frederick, and Aasimar would report to Emmeryn, who had come to meet them.

Meanwhile in the Shepherds barracks a new bond was about to be made between two individuals.

Sully walked around the Shepherds barracks, her gaze searching for a particular individual who had caught her attention. It didn't take her long to spot a tall figure amidst the bustling activity. Her eyes fell upon a man, standing at an impressive 6'7" with a muscular, athletic build. His sharp face, buzzcut black hair, brown eyes, and lightly tanned skin made him easily recognizable. It was Carnage, the renowned heavy warrior of the Azure team.

Carnage sat in the camp, engrossed in his task of meticulously maintaining his arsenal. His focus was on his prized possessions: the light machine gun, grenade launcher, and pistol. With battles and firefights being a regular occurrence, the last thing he wanted was for any of his weapons to jam at a critical moment.

As the sounds of Sully's approaching footsteps reached his ears, Carnage instinctively looked up from his work. He locked eyes with the fiery-haired cavalier, recognizing her as a fellow warrior within the Shepherds' ranks. A nod of acknowledgment passed between them, silently acknowledging their shared dedication to the cause.

Sully approached Carnage with purpose, her determination evident in her expression. It was clear that she had sought him out for a reason, perhaps to discuss tactics, exchange combat stories, or simply form a connection with a fellow fighter.

"Hey, Sully. You've got quite the fighting spirit. Impressive," Carnage remarked, putting the finishing touches to his maintenance as he spoke.

Sully grinned and replied, "Hah! Thanks, big guy. I can say the same about you and your... impressive weaponry. Where'd you learn to handle all that firepower?"

Carnage paused for a moment, reflecting on his past experiences. "It's a long story, but let's just say I've had my fair share of battles. My training and experience helped me become proficient with these weapons," he explained.

Sully chuckled, clearly intrigued. "Well, you've certainly got a way with them. I've seen you mow down enemies like there's no tomorrow. We could use more fighters like you on our side."

Carnage nodded appreciatively. "Thanks for the kind words, Sully. But remember, it's not just about the weapons. It's how you use them, teamwork, and protecting our comrades that matters."

Sully shrugged playfully and said, "Yeah, yeah, I know all that. But sometimes, a good old-fashioned beatdown can do wonders too, don't you think?"

Carnage laughed heartily. "Well, I can't argue with that, and its results speak for themselves. Let's keep pushing forward together, Sully. We'll show them what we're made of."

The camaraderie between Carnage and Sully was evident, their shared appreciation for each other's skills and dedication shining through. As they continued their conversation, the bond between the heavy warrior and the cavalier began to grow.

In the palace…

"How did things go, Chrom?" Emmeryn asked.

"Things proceeded well enough," Chrom replied. "Azure team helped prevent an incident at the Longfort and secured their support."

Emmeryn was especially happy that Chrom and the Shepherds had acquired the support of Regna Ferox. She was glad that Azure team had helped in keeping things from escalating and assisting Chrom in the process. Acquiring the team's services had proven worthwhile.

"Thank you, Chrom. I knew that sending you was the right choice," she said to her brother. "The same goes for you, Aasimar. I'm glad that you and your team were able to support my brother in this task," she addressed the Azure team leader who stood with her arms behind her.

"You're welcome, ma'am," Aasimar replied.

"At ease, Aasimar. No need to be formal," Emmeryn said.

"As you wish," Aasimar said. "Like I told Chrom earlier, I'm here for further negotiations about Azure Team working for your kingdom."

"Yes, I know about that. Before we start, may I know what I can address you as instead of Aasimar?" Emmeryn asked.

Aasimar looked at Emmeryn in silence, debating whether she could trust the exalt with such information. While Emmeryn appeared to be a pure-hearted woman from what Aasimar could sense, it didn't automatically mean that she would instantly give her trust. However, she acknowledged that the woman had taken a significant risk in seeking out her and her team for negotiations. Aasimar had already granted a semblance of trust to Robin and sensed that Chrom and the wary Frederick were also trustworthy. With a sigh, the Azure Team leader put her hands on her helmet and removed it, revealing her true face to the group.

Emmeryn was stunned at the sight of such a young woman as the leader of this mercenary group (little did she know how mistaken she was). Chrom and Frederick were equally taken aback, not only by Aasimar's presence but also by her remarkable beauty. Robin had already seen her face, yet he instinctively put his hood over his head, attempting to hide the blush on his cheeks—a reaction that Aasimar couldn't help but notice.

With a steel gaze, the Azure Team leader, her brown eyes resolute, began her introduction.

"You can call me Alexa. Consider this a semblance of trust," Alexa said. "I'm taking a big leap of faith with you four, especially you, Exalt. Betray me or Azure, and believe me, I'll know... and I will hunt you to the ends of the planet and wipe you off it, no matter how powerful you are." Her eyes turned gold, and she released a fraction of her power, enough to emphasize her point without alerting everyone in Ylisse. The four looked at her with a mixture of awe and fear, their throats gulping in response. However, Emmeryn smiled gently at Alexa.

"Well then, I have nothing to worry about, and you have my word that no one here will betray you or your comrades, Alexa," Emmeryn reassured her.

Alexa met the exalt's gaze before dropping her steel gaze and returning the smile. "Glad to hear that, Exalt."

"Please call me Emmeryn," Emmeryn corrected her.

Alexa chuckled. "Okay, Emmeryn. Now, shall we get on with the negotiations?"

Aasimar's POV

Negotiations went well enough, and the terms were simple: Ylisse would have our services, and we would assist the Shepherds. In return, they would provide us with a place to stay, resources, money, and information about this world we're in. These terms were agreeable for the time being, resolving our nomadic lifestyle and resource issues.

Emmeryn had arranged for us to have a blacksmith who would supply us with metals for ammunition, in addition to the crude ammo we made using the teeth of our fallen enemies. They also provided us with melee weapons for close-quarters combat, complementing our combat knives. Personally, I was already equipped with Severance, so I was covered. Carnage acquired a steel axe, Deadeye got a longbow, and Gadget obtained a modified steel lance, which our tech genius made retractable for ease of carry.

Soon, news reached us that Maribelle, a member of the Shepherds and a Ylissean noble, had been kidnapped by Plegian soldiers and taken across the border. The batshit crazy Mad-King Gangrel, ruler of Plegia, claimed that Maribelle was invading his country, although everyone in the Shepherds, Azure, and Emmeryn's court knew it was a complete lie. That lunatic was desperate for a war with Ylisse and would resort to any means to provoke it. The problem at hand was how to rescue Maribelle from his clutches. Emmeryn insisted on parleying with the mad king, a decision I strongly recommended against. However, the Exalt was stubborn, so I played along. Emmeryn also requested Azure's assistance in the rescue mission, so it was my responsibility to inform the team that we had an escort mission with a rescue objective ahead of us.

Third Person POV

On the way to the meeting point for the parley another bond is about to form as Lissa decides to strike up a conversation with Gadget who was doing a quick check on his equipment.

"Hey there, Gadget! What's all this tinkering about?" Lissa asked, her eyes glancing over the intricate mechanisms of the shotgun.

Gadget looked up and grinned, his eyes reflecting a mischievous glint. "Ah, just giving my trusty old boom stick a little TLC. It's always good to keep your gear in top shape, you know?"

Lissa leaned closer, her eyes widening with fascination. "Wow! I've never seen a weapon like this before. Is it really powerful?"

Gadget nodded, a hint of pride in his voice. "Oh, you bet it is! This baby can pack quite a punch, especially up close and personal. With the right aim, it's a force to be reckoned with."

Lissa's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That's amazing! I wish I could be as skilled with a weapon like that."

Gadget chuckled and reassured her, "Don't worry, Lissa. Everyone has their own unique talents. You have your healing magic, which is just as important on the battlefield. We all play different roles in the fight against evil."

Lissa nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "You're right, Gadget. We each have our own strengths. But it's still fascinating to see what others can do. Maybe you can teach me a thing or two about your gadgets sometime?"

Gadget's eyes lit up with enthusiasm. "Absolutely, Lissa! I'd be happy to show you some tricks of the trade. Just be ready for some surprises!"

Lissa giggled; her curiosity piqued. "I can't wait! It'll be our own little secret alliance."

"Our secret alliance indeed." Gadget replied cheerfully.

Chrom and Emmeryn smirked at their interaction, happy to see their little sister get along with a member of Azure team. The same for Aasimar as she'd also seen the interaction and was happy to see the cheerful support have a playful banter with the princess.

Just before they arrived at the meeting point Aasimar met with the Exalt, Chrom and Robin with concern.

Aasimar spoke first, her voice filled with urgency. "Exalt, we understand the importance of diplomacy, but negotiating with Gangrel is a disaster waiting to happen. I fear this parley will only end in bloodshed."

Chrom nodded in agreement, his frustration evident. "Sister, I respect your dedication to peace, but Gangrel cannot be trusted. He only wants war with us, and I fear he will use this opportunity to gain an advantage over us."

Emmeryn listened attentively, her expression calm and wise. She understood the weight of their concerns and the danger they faced. She spoke with a soft yet resolute voice, addressing her sibling and the operative.

"I hear your worries, Aasimar and Chrom. I, too, am aware of Gangrel's ruthlessness. But as the Exalt of Ylisse, it is my duty to explore every possible avenue for peace. We cannot let fear guide our actions. Instead, let us have faith in the power of words, in the potential for understanding and reconciliation."

Aasimar sighed, her eyes searching Emmeryn's face. "I trust your wisdom, Exalt, but I can't help but worry for our safety. Azure team is prepared for battle, ready to protect you and the Shepherds. Just promise us that if things go south, you will prioritize your subordinates' lives over negotiations."

Emmeryn nodded, her gaze steady. "I promise, Aasimar. Our lives are of utmost importance. If the situation becomes dire, we will prioritize the safety of our comrades. We will not let ourselves be caught off guard."

Robin interjected, his voice calm and measured. "Emmeryn, Aasimar, Chrom, we must remember that decisions made in the heat of emotion rarely lead to the best outcomes. Let us approach this parley with caution, prepared for all possibilities, but also with a glimmer of hope. Sometimes, unexpected alliances can be forged."

"With that lunatic, not very likely. Still, thanks for the advice, Robin," Aasimar replied with a hint of skepticism in her voice. "I'll trust Exalt's decisions, but I won't let my guard down. Gangrel is unpredictable and dangerous."

Her expression then turned serious, her eyes glinting with determination. "However, if that Mad King starts a fight, Azure team won't hesitate to respond with force. I've seen enough bloodshed caused by people like him to know we'll need to be ready to unleash hell and protect our allies."

Chrom nodded in agreement, his grip tightening on his sword. "Aasimar is right. Gangrel may try to use this parley as an opportunity to strike. We'll be on high alert, ready to defend ourselves and those we hold dear."

Emmeryn's gentle voice interjected, filled with both grace and conviction. "Remember, everyone, that violence should always be a last resort. Our goal is to achieve peace, even in the face of adversity. We must hold on to our principles, but also be prepared to defend ourselves if necessary."

Aasimar took a deep breath, her resolve unwavering. "Understood, Emmeryn. We won't start a fight, but we won't back down either."

Robin, ever the strategist, chimed in once more. "Let us not underestimate the power of diplomacy but remain vigilant. Our strength lies in our unity and preparedness. We'll be there to support each other, both in negotiation and in battle."

With their determination and trust in one another reaffirmed, the group set forth on their mission, aware of the potential dangers that lay ahead. As they got closer Aasimar ordered her team to blend in with the surroundings, and scout ahead.

Five minutes later Aasimar, Chrom and Robin got contacted on their earpieces.

"Lead, Chrom, Robin, you listening?" came the voice of Deadeye, breaking the silence.

"We can hear you, Deadeye. What's going on?" Chrom responded, his tone alert and focused.

"Gangrel and his troops are up ahead." The markswoman replied,her voice laced with a hint of urgency. "We're facing a significant force consisting of barbarians, swordsmen, dark mages, and wyvern riders. Maribelle is held in a different part of the border pass, guarded by two barbarians."

Understanding the gravity of the situation, Aasimar immediately assessed the information and formulated a plan. "Carnage, Gadget, I need you to move into position for the rescue," she ordered, her voice firm and decisive.

Acknowledging the order, Carnage and Gadget sprang into action, their training and experience guiding their every move. They swiftly made their way through the dense undergrowth, utilizing their skills and equipment to maintain stealth and remain undetected by Gangrel's troops and then rappelled up towards where Maribelle was being held hostage.

The group soon arrived at the meeting point at the Border Pass, with Aasimar already using adaptive camo and staying behind Robin while Deadeye also moved into position and aimed her Barret M107 at the Mad King Gangrel who was higher up in the area with Aversa, his advisor beside him.

"We're in position ma'am." Gadget informed Aasimar.

"Good. Hold until I give the go ahead." Aasimar ordered.

"What's this, then? The exalt herself, in all her radiance?" Gangrel addressed the group, "I fear I must shield my eyes! Bwa ha ha ha!"

"Dramatic much?" Deadeye commented in sheer annoyance.

"King Gangrel, I've come for the truth of this unfortunate incident between us." Emmeryn addressed the king.

"The truth? I can give you the truth." Aversa replied.

Emmeryn inquired about who the advisor was with Aversa introducing herself. Aasimar's gaze sharpened as she fixed her eyes on Aversa, her memory quickly identifying the voice.

"Azure Team, it's Aversa who dispatched those assassins against us." She proclaimed, immediately capturing her teammates' focus.

Carnage inquired cautiously, "Are you absolutely certain, ma'am?"

"Absolutely. I'd recognize that voice anywhere. She's the one whose job offer I rejected earlier." Aasimar affirmed without hesitation.

Gadget interjected, laden with suspicion, "What's her game?"

"Clearly nothing good." Deadeye, her tone dripping with cynicism, replied.

Emmeryn then turned her attention to Maribelle, inquiring about her well-being. The resolute noble, Maribelle, passionately demanded her release from the restraints and vociferously denounced Aversa's false accusations regarding her actions at Plegia's borders.

Gangrel acknowledged that mending the relationship between their nations and averting the outbreak of war would require a substantial gesture of goodwill. The members of Azure Team struggled to contain their disbelief at the audacious claims he was making.

"Ma'am, may I kindly request permission to silence the lunatic permanently?" Deadeye inquired with a thinly veiled frustration.

Aasimar, with a touch of exasperation in her voice, responded, "As much as I'd relish having this madman silenced, permission is denied. There's no need to further heighten the tension."

Gadget chimed in, injecting a dose of practicality, "I hate to be the bearer of bad news, ma'am, but given the current state of affairs, escalation is almost inevitable, considering the nature of the bloody lunatic in question."

Emmeryn remained steadfast in her refusal to accept the false accusations against Maribelle, and she made a polite but determined request for Maribelle's release. In response, Gangrel stubbornly rejected her plea, asserting his supposed right to execute Maribelle, a move that infuriated Chrom considerably.

However, amidst the tension, Gangrel surprisingly proposed a trade. He was willing to exchange Maribelle for the Fire Emblem and the Phantoms, who were implicated in crimes against Plegia and had inflicted significant losses on their forces. This demand caught everyone by surprise, leaving them stunned, except for the unflinching members of Azure Team.

Gadget couldn't resist a dry remark, deadpanning, "Told you so, ma'am."

Meanwhile, Robin's voice came through the communication link, his tone hushed, "Aasimar, did you and your team really engage in the actions Gangrel's accusing you of?"

Aasimar, keeping her composure, responded in an equally composed manner, "All we did was protect villages from bandit attacks. We had no knowledge of their Plegian affiliations until after we had dealt with them."

"Figured as much," Chrom expressed his support for Azure Team.

Emmeryn, having no intention of conceding to Gangrel's demand, decided to playfully taunt her fellow ruler, inquiring, "Phantoms? You're asking me to trade spirits? Seriously?"

Chrom eagerly joined the jest, jesting, "I understand you have the title of the Mad King, but this request for phantoms is pushing it, even for you."

Gangrel joined in the laughter, his sinister amusement ringing through the air. "Bwa ha ha ha ha! Indeed, it's amusing... if only it were a jest," he admitted. However, his demeanor swiftly turned deadly serious. "But, unfortunately for you, I'm not joking, and I'm prepared to demonstrate that to you right now."

With that, Gangrel signaled the brigands holding Maribelle, indicating that they should execute her to prove his point. Aasimar, sharp as ever, swiftly caught onto the plan.

"Carnage, Gadget! GO! Execute now!" She ordered with urgency.

Without a moment's hesitation, Carnage and Gadget executed silent, precise headshots, taking down the executioners and swiftly securing a stunned Maribelle, their forms materializing seamlessly in the process. Regrettably, Gangrel was quick to catch on and flashed a devious smile.

"Still think I'm mad?" he taunted.

Meanwhile, brigands rushed toward Emmeryn, but their advance was abruptly halted by three loud shots to the head, putting them down for good. Aasimar materialized beside Robin, her Desert Eagle firmly gripped in her hand.

"Too slow." She coolly stated, her tone laced with a subtle warning. "I'd strongly suggest you step back if you'd like to avoid the same fate as your comrades."

Aversa shot an intense glare at Aasimar, her frustration evident as she realized the assassins had failed in their mission to eliminate Aasimar and Azure Team.

Gangrel, seething with agitation, commented, "Now that's a declaration of war if I've ever heard one. A colossal, chaotic war that will drain the Ylisseans dry! Bwa ha ha ha!"

Aasimar, with a resolute tone, ordered, "Deadeye, please silence him."

Deadeye responded eagerly, "Gladly!" She pulled the trigger, but Aversa's keen eye caught the glint from her sniper rifle just in time. She managed to push Gangrel out of the line of fire, but not before the .50 caliber shot tore off his right arm.

"Damn! I only got his arm!" Deadeye cursed in frustration.

While Gangrel writhed in agony, grappling with the shock of losing his arm, Aversa wasted no time in commanding the Plegian troops to confront Emmeryn and her entourage. Robin swiftly rallied everyone, instructing them to prepare for battle and to ensure Emmeryn's safety.

Carnage, Gadget, and a now-liberated Maribelle found themselves facing a group of approaching barbarians and swordsmen. However, before Carnage and Gadget could engage them, a sudden gust of wind swept through, sending the Plegian forces scattering. Subsequently, a mage rushed toward them, introducing himself with enthusiasm.

"Hey, I'm Ricken! I'm here to help!" he announced, raising his hands to show he meant no harm.

Gadget, taken aback, exclaimed, "What are you doing here? Aren't you a bit young for this kind of fighting?"

Carnage, focused on the bigger picture, intervened decisively, "Forget about it, Gadget! We need to regroup with the others before we're surrounded." With that, he deployed his tower shield and initiated a tactical retreat, providing mobile cover as Gadget offered suppressing fire with his sidearm. Ricken and Maribelle quickly fell into step, joining the organized withdrawal. Myrmidons and barbarians pressed on, attempting to close in on them, but they were met with effective suppressive fire from Carnage and Gadget, combined with well-aimed Wind spells from Ricken. Their combined efforts managed to keep their pursuers at bay. Fortunately, Lon'qu and Sully arrived, and together, they swiftly dispatched the remaining foes.

"Are you all unharmed?" Lon'qu inquired.

"We're alright. Thanks for the timely arrival." Gadget replied.

Carnage, though slightly grumbling, admitted, "It's about time you showed up. I was starting to think I'd have to take them on solo."

Sully, offering a playful jab, chimed in, "Oh, come on, big guy. You could've held them off a little longer."

Carnage, showing a hint of embarrassment, responded, "Yeah, thanks for the save."

Aasimar, focused on the mission, asked, "Is Maribelle secure?"

Gadget swiftly assured her, saying, "Yes, she's okay. She's a bit roughed up, but she's safe. Lon'qu and Sully have joined our ranks."

Lissa and Miriel arrived as well, and Lissa immediately set to work, employing her healing staff to tend to Maribelle's and Carnage's injuries.

Robin, looking ahead, added, "That's great news. Now we can initiate the counterattack."

Meanwhile, Deadeye and Virion remained busy, their Barret M50 and longbow expertly picking off wyvern riders and dark mages before they could close in.

"The enemy keeps coming back like breeding rabbits, and we can't sustain this all day," Deadeye commented with a hint of frustration.

Virion pointed out the reason, saying, "It's those forts. We take them over, and their reinforcements will dry up."

Acknowledging Virion's insight, Deadeye quickly relayed the information to Aasimar and Robin.

"We'll need to deal with those forts," Aasimar declared as she deftly parried an incoming barbarian's axe swing with her blade, Severance, and swiftly dispatched her foe. "Gadget, are you good? Please tell me you've got some explosives on you." She skillfully dodged a sword thrust from a myrmidon and decapitated him.

Gadget replied, "I've got C4s and Semtex, but they're in limited supply."

Aasimar made a decision, instructing Gadget, "Then gather a team and secure those forts. We'll blow them sky-high."

However, Robin chimed in with an alternative suggestion, "I believe it would be wiser for us to utilize those forts to our advantage rather than destroying them, Aasimar." Aasimar didn't seem too pleased with that idea. She planted her sword into the ground beside her and began a barrage of fire with her ACR, while Robin joined in, unleashing blasts of Light spells.

"Robin, we need to take down those forts. It's much quicker and more efficient."

"I understand your concern, Aasimar, but turning those forts against the enemy would be a game-changer for the battle."

"Now's not time for games, Robin. We need to act swiftly."

"I'm not playing games. I'm talking about using the enemy's positions against them. We can take control of those forts and create a strong defensive line."

"Robin, we don't know if we'll even hold those forts once we take them. We need to strike hard and fast."

"But think about the advantage we'd gain if we did. We can position our forces strategically, and it could turn the tide in our favor.

"I...I still think it's risky."

"Aasimar, trust me. It's a calculated risk that could benefit us greatly. We have the skill to seize those forts and use them to protect our allies."

"All right, Robin. We'll try it your way. But we better not regret this."

Upon Robin's advice, Chrom promptly issued orders to secure the three forts that were bolstering the enemy's reinforcements. He took the lead in this endeavor, joined by a team of skilled individuals: Carnage, Sumia, Sully, Stahl, and Miriel. This diverse group, combining steel, magic, and agility, cut through the opposition and successfully captured the three forts.

The enemy made swift attempts to reclaim these strategic positions, but the support of Aasimar, Robin, Deadeye, Virion, Lon'qu, and Gadget, coupled with the healing assistance provided by Lissa and Maribelle, ensured that they retained control of the forts.

As the battle raged on, the enemy's commander, Orton, a formidable wyvern rider, engaged them directly. However, his advance was abruptly halted when Deadeye expertly eliminated him with a precise shot to the head, effectively bringing an end to the conflict.

"I have to say, Aasimar, the tactic worked perfectly," Robin remarked with a hint of satisfaction.

Aasimar, though acknowledging their victory, responded modestly, "We were fortunate this time. Things could have gone south pretty quickly."

Lissa and Gadget go to check on her friend Maribelle, "Maribelle! Are you hurt?"

"Nothing I didn't return twofold, darling." Maribelle replied.

"Well, that's good to hear. Glad we could get you out of there," Gadget expressed, his relief evident.

Lissa chimed in with gratitude, saying, "Indeed. You and Carnage did an excellent job rescuing Maribelle. Thank you for that!"

Maribelle, with a degree of caution, admitted, "Yes, you two were competent at that..."

Gadget, seeking to defuse any tension, stated, "We're allies here. No need for the attitude."

Robin added his voice to the conversation, saying, "Well, I'm glad you're safe."

Maribelle, recognizing Robin, responded cautiously, "Who...? Oh. It's you."

Robin continued, "Yes, I know you're not especially fond of me, but it's a relief all the same."

Maribelle, while explaining her protective stance, eventually apologized, saying, "Oh, it's not a question of fondness. I am simply protective of Lissa. My treasure is very sensitive, and... Wait. Am I really justifying myself to a commoner? Gods... Yes, well, I do...apologize for being curt. And... And... And you have my thanks for your part in the rescue. There, I said it!" She then walked away.

Lissa, attempting to mediate, reassured them, "Don't worry about her, you two. Maribelle's just cautious. She'll grow on you."

Gadget, unusually blunt in his response, caught Lissa and Robin off guard, stating, "I won't hold my breath. I have limited patience with people like her."

"Gadget called it. It's escalated into a full-blown war," Aasimar stated, her tone tinged with a mixture of concern and grim satisfaction. "But it's nice to see that lunatic with one less arm."

Chrom agreed, "It was inevitable, considering the Mad King."

"About your earlier action, it's all right, Aasimar. King Gangrel is the one at fault here. You were only protecting me." Emmeryn reassured.

"The One-armed Mad King will be rallying his forces if they haven't mobilized already. I suggest we make haste back to Ylisstol and discuss our strategy." Frederick interjected with a hint of jest at Gangrel's newfound status.

Emmeryn, with a sense of responsibility, concurred, "Of course, Frederick. It seems war is upon us. We must protect the Ylissean people at all costs."

Back in Plegia…

"Ah, finally, the war I've been yearning for! This chaos is intoxicating." Gangrel said with glee.

"Indeed, it's a glorious sight." Aversa agreed before turning serious, "But remember, we have a new adversary in the form of Azure Team."

"Those accursed interlopers! They dared to maim me. I'll see them and their leader pay dearly for this." Gangrel yelled furiously while touching the stump of his missing arm and feeling the phantom pain.

"Fear not, Gangrel. We shall eliminate them, make no mistake. Their interference will not go unanswered." Aversa slyly placated.

Gangrel smirked in appreciation, "Good. Let them feel the wrath of Plegia's rage, and may my lost arm be avenged in their blood."


CHAPTER 5 End.

After forming an alliance with Regna Ferox, the Shepherds and Azure Team encounter and assist the villager Donnel in rescuing his fellow villagers from bandits, eventually recruiting him despite initial reluctance from Azure Team. Subsequently, a parley takes place between Emmeryn and Gangrel in an attempt to ease tensions and secure Maribelle's release. During this meeting, Aasimar confirms that Aversa was behind a prior assassination attempt on Azure Team for refusing a job offer. Tensions mount as negotiations falter when Emmeryn hesitates to trade the Fire Emblem and Azure Team for Maribelle. The situation escalates, leading to a near-execution of Maribelle, which Carnage and Gadget thwart. Aasimar intervenes to protect Emmeryn, and Deadeye inadvertently blasts off Gangrel's arm. As a result, Ylisse is now at war with Plegia, and Gangrel seeks revenge for his lost limb.

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