Emblems and Heroes

by Neutral Samurai Hunter

Upon seemingly being erased by Gullveig, Kiran Pathfinder is spirited away from Zenith to Elyos. Stranded in Elyos for the time being, Kiran must assist Alear in her quest to save Elyos from the dark forces that threaten to destroy it, using both the power of the 12 Emblems and the Breidablik's ability to summon Heroes.

14. Interlude - Elyos-Zenith Juxtaposition

Welcome to the latest chapter of Emblems and Heroes!

The Fire Emblem franchise belongs to Intelligent Systems. I only write this crossover for the readers' fun, entertainment, and enjoyment.

Now, let us begin this chapter...

---

Inside Askr Castle, Veronica, Embla's Princess Rising, addressed Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna, with her voice filled with urgency. "I have received word from my soldiers. They believe they have located a possible encampment of the Curse Directive forces. It lies between the borders of the Kingdom of Askr and the Emblian Empire."

Always vigilant and quick to assess the situation, Commander Anna responded promptly. "If your sources are accurate, Princess Veronica, we should waste no time. We can deploy the Order of Heroes to that area immediately."

Veronica nodded, with her expression a mix of concern and determination. "Indeed, Commander Anna. However, we must be cautious. There is a chance that Ebony, the Shadow Director of the Curse Directive, may be preparing to evacuate that area. We cannot let them slip away."

Alfonse turned to Veronica, his voice filled with conviction. "Princess Veronica, I believe Kiran himself will be pivotal in this mission. His strategic mind and combat prowess are unmatched."

Sharena, ever eager to contribute, interjected. "Yeah, Alfonse! Kiran has faced the Curse Directive forces at Elyos before. She knows their tactics and weaknesses."

Veronica nodded in acknowledgment, her gaze focused. "You're right, Sharena. We will indeed need Kiran's help if we are to successfully attack the Curse Directive encampment."

Commander Anna, always pragmatic, spoke up. "That's why we must go to Elyos and inform Kiran about this news. He needs to be prepared and join us in this crucial mission."

The commanders exchanged determined glances, their resolve firm. They knew that the fate of their realms depended on their actions, and they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited them on their journey to Elyos. Together, they would bring the news to Kiran and unite their forces against the Curse Directive.

---

Emblems And Heroes

A Fire Emblem Heroes x Fire Emblem Engage Crossover

Chapter 14: Interlude - Elyos-Zenith Juxtaposition

---

Back in Elyos, specifically in Somniel, Alear, Kiran, and their allies found a moment of respite after the intense battle at the Brodia-Elusia border yesterday. The warriors lounged around, finding solace in the calm surroundings. As Kiran walked in a corridor in Somniel, he noticed Alear talking with Princess Ivy of Elusia, with Ivy's expression filled with uncertainty.

"Oh, good morning, Kiran!" Alear greeted him. "Did you sleep well?"

"Good morning to you as well, Alear," Kiran replied. "I slept well last night."

Turning his attention towards Ivy, Kiran approached her. "Princess Ivy, are you alright?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine care.

Ivy looked up at Kiran, a faint smile forming on her lips. "Thank you for asking, Kiran. I was talking with Alear about my first day here in Somniel. It'll take me some time to get used to all of this," she replied, her voice tinged with exhaustion and gratitude.

Alear, noticing the interaction, joined in the conversation. "Ivy, why don't we both go to Café Terrace and have breakfast together?" she suggested, extending a friendly invitation.

Ivy's eyes brightened, appreciating the gesture. "That is a fine idea, Divine One... I mean, Alear. I would be delighted to join you," she replied, her voice reflecting a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos surrounding them.

With a plan in place, Kiran, Alear, and Ivy rose from their lounging spots, ready to enjoy a moment of respite and camaraderie amidst the ongoing battles. As they made their way towards Café Terrace, they knew that their bonds of friendship would be a source of strength in the challenging times that lay ahead.

---

As Alear escorted Ivy to Café Terrace, Kiran quietly followed behind them, intrigued by the lively atmosphere of the place. Stepping inside, Kiran's gaze swept across the room until he spotted a familiar sight. At a table, he saw the Nifl siblings - Fjorm, Hrid, Gunnthra, and Ylgr - conversing with the Firene siblings, Alfred and Celine.

Fjorm, catching sight of Kiran approaching, greeted him with a warm smile. "Kiran! Join us, won't you?" she exclaimed, extending an invitation to the summoner.

Kiran's face lit up with delight, appreciating the camaraderie. "Thank you, Fjorm. I'd be delighted to eat with all of you," he replied, his voice reflecting genuine excitement.

Alfred, the crown prince of Firene, chimed in, his tone friendly. "Indeed, Kiran! We have plenty of food and drinks for you to enjoy. Please, make yourself at home."

With a grateful nod, Kiran took a seat at the table, feeling a sense of belonging among this group of heroes. They were united not just by their shared battles, but also by the bonds they had formed along the way. As they sat together, sharing stories and laughter, the weight of their responsibilities momentarily lifted, replaced by the warmth of friendship and the simple joy of enjoying a meal together.

As Kiran settled at the table, Celine, the princess of Firene, leaned in and spoke with a cheerful tone. "Kiran, you've arrived just in time! We're about to have lunch and enjoy some tea. Join us!"

Hrid, sitting nearby, turned to Kiran with a smile. "I must say, Kiran, I always enjoy the company of Alfred and Celine. The Firene siblings are great to be around."

Celine, curious about the past encounters between Kiran and the Nifl siblings, turned her attention to Gunnthra. "Gunnthra, do you remember when you and your siblings first met Kiran? It feels like such a long time ago."

Gunnthra, a serene expression on her face, nodded and replied, "Indeed, Celine. We first encountered Kiran in our dreams. It was through those ethereal connections that our paths intertwined, leading us to become allies and friends."

As the group gathered around the table, their plates filled with breakfast delights, Celine couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. She leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. "I'm eager to know what happened in those dreams. How did they bring you all together?"

Fjorm, her brow furrowed slightly, took a sip of her tea before responding. "Well, Celine, it's a bit hazy for Hrid, Ylgr, and myself. For some reason, we could barely remember those dreams when we first met Kiran. It's as if they were just fleeting glimpses."

Ylgr, her voice filled with cheerfulness, chimed in. "But don't worry, Celine! Peony and Mirabilis came to our aid. They helped us recall those dreams and understand their significance. Without them, we might have never fully connected the pieces."

Alfred nodded, his memory serving him well. "I remember Peony and Mirabilis being summoned alongside Triandra and Plumeria by Kiran several days ago. It was back when I first met Alear and Kiran at Lythos when the Ring Vault was attacked. The four of them helped during the ensuing battle."

As they continued their meal, the group exchanged knowing glances, grateful for the intervention of Peony, Mirabilis, and the summoner Kiran. Their shared dreams had transcended boundaries, forging a path toward unity and understanding—a bond that would prove invaluable in the battles to come.

---

As Kiran listened to the conversation with the Nifl and Firene siblings, Alear and Ivy found themselves seated at a nearby table, their plates filled and drinks ready to be enjoyed. As they began to eat their breakfast, Alear turned to Ivy, her voice filled with curiosity. "Ivy, you seem to have a lot on your mind. Is everything alright?"

Ivy paused, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, Alear, you're right. I do have a lot on my mind," she admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of unease. "It's just that... I can't help but feel a bit uncomfortable about something."

Alear listened attentively, her eyes filled with understanding. "What's bothering you, Ivy? You can share with me."

Ivy took a deep breath, her words filled with honesty. "Well, you see, the Kingdom of Elusia openly worships the Fell Dragon Sombron. It's a deeply ingrained tradition and belief in our kingdom, but sometimes it makes me feel uneasy. I question the consequences and the true intentions behind it all."

Alear nodded sympathetically, her voice gentle. "I can understand why that would make you uncomfortable, Ivy. It's important to question and reflect on our beliefs. Just know that you have friends here who support you, no matter what you decide."

Ivy smiled gratefully, feeling a sense of reassurance. With Alear by her side and the newfound camaraderie among their allies, she knew she wasn't alone in her doubts. Together, they continued their breakfast, savoring the moments of respite and finding solace in each other's company.

Alear nodded in understanding, her voice filled with sincerity. "You're right, Ivy. We do need time to get to know each other, to become acquaintances, and hopefully, allies. Building trust and understanding is crucial."

"I agree with that, Divine One," Ivy replied, a hint of playfulness in her voice as she muttered, "Well, for now, I'll continue worshipping you from afar."

Alear, catching Ivy's words, leaned in slightly. "What was that, Ivy? I didn't quite catch what you just said."

Ivy stammered, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Oh, it was nothing. Just a passing thought."

Quick to change the topic, Ivy redirected the conversation. "So, Alear, what do you think of Kiran Pathfinder? His ability to summon Heroes from other worlds, is quite remarkable, isn't it? It reminds me a bit of the Emblems here in Elyos."

Alear nodded in agreement, acknowledging the remarkable nature of Kiran's ability. "Yes, Kiran's ability to summon Heroes is truly remarkable. Unlike the Emblems, which are incorporeal spirits, these Heroes are flesh-and-blood beings. They are empowered by the summoning process, entering into a contract with Kiran."

Curiosity piqued, Ivy turned to Alear, her eyes wide with surprise. "How do you know that detail so well, Alear?"

Alear took a deep breath, her voice steady as she revealed a shocking truth. "That's because I am also a Hero, Ivy. I willingly allowed Kiran to summon me and entered into a contract with him."

Ivy's jaw dropped in astonishment, her mind racing to process this revelation. As she listened intently, Alear continued to speak, explaining her choice.

"At first, I was hesitant. but I felt a calling, Princess Ivy. A desire to join the fight, to stand alongside Kiran and the others," Alear explained to Ivy. "So, when I finally convinced myself to be summoned by Kiran, I realized being summoned as a Hero has allowed me to make a difference, to protect those in need. It's a responsibility I willingly took on."

Ivy's initial surprise gave way to admiration and understanding. She realized the depth of Alear's commitment and the bravery it took to become a summoned Hero. In that moment, their bond as acquaintances grew stronger, as they shared a mutual understanding of the sacrifices and choices that came with their newfound roles.

Ivy turned to Alear, her curiosity evident in her voice. "Alear, were there any other people here in Elyos aside from you, Diamant, and Alcryst who were summoned by Kiran as Heroes?"

Alear nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, Ivy. Alongside myself, Alfred and Celine were also summoned by Kiran as Heroes."

"So, Prince Alfred and Princess Celine were also summoned as Heroes?" Ivy remarked as she closed her eyes to remember yesterday's events. "I still remember during that intense battle against Ebony, the Shadow Director of the Curse Directive, Kiran summoned Diamant and Alcryst as Heroes to help him turn the fight around. It was an incredible sight."

Alear looked at Ivy, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Ivy, do you desire for Kiran himself to summon you as a Hero?"

Ivy considered Alear's words and shook her head slightly. "I don't think I'm ready to be willingly summoned by Kiran just yet. It's a big decision, and I want to make sure I'm fully prepared."

Alear nodded understandingly, respecting Ivy's choice. "I completely understand, Ivy. It's important to feel ready and confident before taking such a significant step."

Ivy looked determined as she spoke. "I'll approach Kiran when I feel the time is right. I'll ask him to summon me as a Hero when I'm prepared to take on that responsibility."

Alear smiled, acknowledging Ivy's decision. "That's a good idea, Ivy. According to Kiran, being summoned and contracted under him needs to be mutual consent between both sides. Take your time, and when you're ready, I'm sure Kiran will be there to guide you."

Their conversation carried a sense of support and encouragement. Ivy knew that when the time came, she would have the opportunity to join the ranks of the summoned Heroes.

---

As Alear and Ivy were conversing at a separate table, back at the table where Kiran, the Nifl siblings, and the Firene siblings were, Kiran's attention was drawn to the Nifl siblings, who were recounting their harrowing tale to Alfred and Celine. Kiran listened intently, his focus on their words.

Gunnthra spoke, her voice filled with a mix of sadness and determination. "During the conflict between Nifl and Muspell, I played a crucial role. I gave Fjorm and Kiran the key to remove Surtr's Múspellflame. However, in the process, I was killed by Surtr himself."

Celine's eyes widened in shock, her voice filled with disbelief. "I can't believe it, Gunnthra! "Wait... but you're here. Does that mean you're a ghost or something?"

Gunnthra nodded solemnly, her expression serene. "Not exactly, Princess Celine. The summoning ritual has the power to bring those who have perished by giving them a second chance. But, speaking from my experience, being summoned by Kiran has given me a second chance, a chance to spend more time with my siblings and fight for a better future."

Alfred turned to Gunnthra, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I must admit, Gunnthra, Celine and I had a discussion with Kiran a few days ago regarding what state a Hero is in when summoned. This is the truly first time I've had the opportunity to meet a Hero like yourself, summoned after your passing."

Gunnthra nodded, understanding the significance of Alfred's words. "I see. There are other Heroes that have similar circumstances as mine, and I'm certain you'll also enjoy their company."

As Kiran acknowledged Alfred's remark with a nod, his gaze shifted to Alear and Ivy, engrossed in their conversation at a nearby table.

Fjorm, noticing Kiran's attention, spoke up. "Why don't you go and join Alear and Ivy? I can hold the discussion here."

"Thank you, Fjorm," Kiran smiled gratefully at Fjorm. "I'll excuse myself to join them."

With a nod to Alfred, Celine, Hrid, Gunnthra, and Ylgr, Kiran made his way over to Alear and Ivy's table, ready to join in their conversation and offer his guidance and support.

---

As Kiran settled at the table, Alear greeted him warmly, her curiosity evident in her voice. "Hello, Kiran. What were the Nifl and Firene siblings discussing?"

Kiran offered a thoughtful smile as he replied to Alear's question. "They were recounting when the Kingdoms of Nifl and Muspell were locked in conflict, sharing their experiences and the challenges they faced."

Ivy, intrigued by the mention of other worlds, directed her question to Kiran. "I find the talk of other worlds fascinating. What is your homeworld like?"

Kiran met Ivy's gaze, his expression reflective as he shared a glimpse of his origins. "My homeworld is on a different world from Zenith. It's known as the World of Steel."

Alear turned to Kiran, her curiosity piqued. "I must admit, I am also curious about what the World of Steel is like."

Kiran offered a warm smile as he began to explain. "The World of Steel is a place where buildings aren't made of stone, but of metal. There are metal carriages as opposed to wooden ones, and the entire landscape is shaped by the presence of steel in various forms."

Intrigued by Kiran's description, Alear couldn't help but express her fascination. "Your homeworld sounds truly remarkable, Kiran. Buildings that are made of metal and horseless carriages? The contrast with our Elyos and even Zenith is quite striking."

As they continued their conversation, the atmosphere in the café shifted as Diamant and Alcryst entered, each carrying their trays of food. Kiran and Alear greeted them with warm smiles, acknowledging the presence of the two princes of Brodia.

"Good morning, Diamant, Alcryst," Kiran greeted them warmly, acknowledging their arrival.

Alear echoed his sentiment, adding her cheerful greeting. "Good morning to both of you. It's always a pleasure to see you both."

"Good morning to you, Divine One," Diamant replied. "And to you as well, Kiran..."

After Diamant greeted Alear and Kiran with a warm smile, he and Alcryst noted Ivy's presence at the table. Alcryst's gaze lingered on Ivy, prompting her to address him directly.

"Do you need something?" Ivy inquired, her tone polite yet curious.

Sensing the tension, Alear swiftly intervened, extending an invitation to Diamant and Alcryst. "Why don't you both join us for a meal?" she suggested, hoping to diffuse the unease.

Diamant agreed with a nod, showing a willingness to sit at the table. "I think that's a good idea, Divine One," he responded, acknowledging Alear's gesture.

However, Alcryst seemed hesitant to sit close to Ivy, expressing his reluctance. "Uh... I'll sit at the corner, further away from Princess Ivy," he stated, his discomfort evident in his words.

As each of them settled at the table and began to eat breakfast, Alear took the initiative to address the underlying tension. "As the Divine Dragon of Elyos, I'm here to hear out any problems. I'm willing to listen to both of you," she expressed, her tone calm and empathetic.

Kiran, recognizing the importance of the moment, added his perspective. "Now is the time to mend the tension between Brodia and Elusia," he urged, emphasizing the need for reconciliation.

Ivy, after listening to Alear and Kiran, nodded in agreement. "Both of you are right," she acknowledged, her expression reflecting a mix of resolution and remorse.

Turning her gaze to Diamant and Alcryst, Ivy's tone grew somber as she addressed them directly. "I want to apologize for my part in King Morion being taken away by my father, King Hyacinth," she confessed, with her words carrying the weight of regret and responsibility.

Alcryst stammered upon hearing Ivy's apology, his emotions evident in his response. "You... You do?" he managed to say, his voice reflecting uncertainty and gratitude.

Diamant, his expression somber, acknowledged Ivy's words with a sense of introspection. "While I could not forget the memory of my father being taken away, I'm glad that you apologized, Princess Ivy," he stated with his words carrying the weight of their shared history.

In response to both Alcryst and Diamant, Ivy expressed her understanding. "While my apology can't heal your wounds, we are allies, or at least aren't enemies anymore. I think it's important that we all find whatever common ground we can and start from there," she emphasized, her words carrying a sense of hope for reconciliation and understanding.

Alear, acknowledging the significance of Ivy's words, offered her support. "Hm, I like your speech, Princess Ivy. I think it's the first step in mending the relations between Brodia and Elusia," she remarked, her tone reflecting a sense of optimism and solidarity.

Alcryst, addressing Princess Ivy directly, shared his reflections. "Um... I used to fear your family and your country. I never dreamed we'd end up on the same side," he admitted, with his words carrying a mix of vulnerability and realization.

Ivy, understanding Alcryst's sentiments, responded with empathy. "Prince Alcryst, I can say the same," she acknowledged, her tone carrying the weight of their shared journey.

"Uh, you can just call me Alcryst, if that's okay," Alcryst shuffled as he replied. "As I was saying, life is so unpredictable, it pushes all of us forward, ready or not."

As he let out a sigh, Alcryst continued, emphasizing the need to let go of past prejudices. "Holding on to past prejudices will only hinder us all," he concluded, his tone conveying determination and understanding.

Then, Alcryst fixed his gaze on Ivy with determination, expressing his resolve. "From now on, I promise to do my best to find that common ground, as you mentioned," he declared, his tone reflecting a sense of commitment and understanding.

Ivy, appreciating the willingness of Diamant and Alcryst to listen, extended her gratitude. "Thank you for listening to my apology. I also want to thank Alear and Kiran for being here to help me do this," she expressed, her words carrying a mix of sincerity and appreciation.

As the group contemplated the significance of their exchange, Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna entered Café Terrace, their presence marking a new chapter in the unfolding story.

"Hi everyone!" Sharena greeted. "The Order of Heroes has arrived!"

Everyone turned their attention towards Alfonse, Sharena, and Anna as they made their way towards Kiran, their arrival adding a new dimension to the evolving dynamics among the group.

"Kiran, who are these three?" Alcryst inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna are the leaders of the Order of Heroes," Kiran explained, clarifying their identities. "You and Diamant need to undergo orientation to officially induct you into the Order of Heroes."

Turning to Alfonse, Sharena, and Anna, Kiran expressed his surprise. "I didn't expect the three of you to come to Somniel during breakfast," he remarked, acknowledging their unexpected arrival.

"Kiran, the Order of Heroes needs you back at Zenith to oversee one mission," Alfonse informed him, his tone carrying a sense of urgency and importance.

"Princess Veronica's forces managed to locate one of the possible encampments of Ebony and her Curse Directive," Commander Anna added with her words underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Alear, showing her willingness to assist, stood up from her table and addressed Kiran. "Sounds interesting. Can I come along?" she asked, her expression reflecting determination and readiness.

"You can come along with me, Alear," Kiran replied, affirming Alear's request and acknowledging her resolve to join the mission.

Diamant and Alcryst exchanged a nod, silently expressing their mutual understanding. Diamant then addressed Kiran with a request, "Since both of us are Heroes, I wonder if Alcryst and I can come along as well?"

"Sure," Kiran replied, "You and Alcryst can come along."

"Thank you, Kiran," Diamant replied.

"Y-yeah," Alcryst added. "Thanks for letting me and my brother come along with you."

As she stared at Diamant and Alcryst, Sharena, intrigued by this revelation, inquired further, "When did you summon Diamant and Alcryst as Heroes?"

"Ah... About that, Sharena," Kiran explained, "I summoned Diamant and Alcryst in the heat of battle against Ebony and her Curse Directive forces."

"I see..." Alfonse extended a warm welcome to Diamant and Alcryst."Prince Diamant and Prince Alcryst, I welcome both of you to the Order of Heroes."

"Oh, the honor is ours," Diamant replied. "And you don't need to address Alcryst and me as princes. Just our names are alright."

"In any case, it's nice to meet you two!" Sharena followed Alfonse's gesture, adding, "You'll have plenty of time to meet with other Heroes in Zenith once your current mission is complete!"

Meanwhile, Commander Anna addressed Kiran, stating, "Once the Curse Directive encampment has been dismantled, Diamant and Alcryst need to undergo orientation to properly induct them into the Order of Heroes."

As she listened to the conversation, Ivy stood up, she approached Kiran with a request, "Kiran, I'm wondering if my retainers and I could travel to Zenith?"

Alear responded to Ivy's inquiry, "Ivy wants to go with us. What do you think, Kiran?" and turned to Kiran, asking for his opinion.

"Well, to be fair," Kiran considered Ivy's request and remarked, "Princess Ivy did express interest in going to other worlds."

Diamant, seizing the opportunity, asked Kiran, "Can Alcryst and I bring our retainers along as well?"

"Alright," Kiran granted their request, affirming, "Ivy, Diamant, and Alcryst can bring their retainers along."

As Alfred and Celine walked up to the group, Alfred spoke up, "Ooh! Kiran, could Celine, our retainers and I come along?"

"In that case," Fjorm, the second princess of Nifl, said as she approached Kiran and Alear, "Could my siblings and I stay in Somniel for the time being?"

"Of course, Princess Fjorm," Alear nodded. "You and your siblings are welcome to stay."

"If everything's settled," Alfonse added, "We'll wait for the retainers at the Somniel's Outrealm Gate."

As everyone managed to finish their breakfast, Alear, Kiran, and the rest of their allies went back to pick up the aforementioned retainers while Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna went to the Outrealm Gate in the middle of Somniel Plaza.

---

As their allies split up to find the retainers, Alear and Kiran ventured into the Grotto, a secluded area nestled deep within Somniel. The air was thick with an otherworldly calm, and the gentle glow of luminescent flora cast an ethereal light on the surroundings. It was in this mystical setting that they stumbled upon a strange blue-and-white furred creature.

Kiran's curiosity got the better of him as he turned to Alear, "What kind of creature is this?"

Alear shrugged, her eyes fixed on the enigmatic being, "I have no idea, but everyone in Somniel seems to call it Sommie."

Sommie, the peculiar creature, strode over to Kiran, and without hesitation, he scooped it up. To their surprise, Sommie nuzzled against Kiran, radiating an unexpected warmth.

Alear's laughter echoed through the Grotto as she saw Sommie nuzzling Kiran affectionately, "Ha... Sommie seems to like you, Kiran."

"Yeah, Sommie is indeed adorable," Kiran replied as he gently set Sommie down, and then he turned to Alear, "Sommie reminds me of Feh, the messenger owl for the Order of Heroes."

"I remember seeing a sleeping owl when I first visited Zenith," Alear's eyes widened, a spark of recognition in her gaze. "That's Feh, right? How I wish I could adopt that owl."

"Uh... I doubt Alfonse, Sharena, or even Commander Anna would allow you to do that, Alear," Kiran chuckled. "I wonder if Feh and Sommie would ever meet? I think it'll be interesting..."

Just then, Vander, one of Alear's Three Stewards, strode into the Grotto. He addressed Alear and Kiran, "Divine One, our allies and retainers have gathered in the Outrealm Gate along with Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna."

Alear turned to Vander and expressed her gratitude, "Thank you for informing us, Vander. By the way, do you happen to know what kind of creature Sommie is?"

As Kiran amused himself with Sommie, Vander replied, "Ah, you mean Sommie? Divine One, Sommie is a spirit that has been guarding Somniel since time immemorial. It takes the form of a small dog-like creature and even acts like one too."

"Thank you for the explanation, Vander," Alear nodded. "Kiran, we need to head to Somniel's Outrealm Gate."

"Alright, Alear," Kiran replied. "We'll see you later, Vander."

After tidying themselves up, Alear and Kiran quickly left the Grotto for the Outrealm Gate in Somniel's Plaza. But, as Alear and Kiran departed from the Grotto, Sommie decided to tag along, following the duo to the Outrealm Gate.

"So, Sommie decided to follow the Divine One and Kiran," Vander mused as he saw Sommie follow Alear and Kiran. "Not even I could fully understand Sommie."

---

As Alear and Kiran arrived at Somniel's Plaza, the site of the Outrealm Gate, they found their allies already gathered in the bustling area. From what Alear and Kiran could discern, it seemed that their allies had gathered their respective retainers. Even Ivy's retainers, Zelkov and Kagetsu, were present in the area, standing alongside Ivy herself.

Amidst the crowd, Alfonse spoke up, "Hmm... Is everyone here and accounted for?"

"Yeah, Alfonse," Kiran replied. "Alear and I have arrived here in time."

"Prince Alfonse," Alear replied. "I see that everyone I can recognize as being from Elyos has gathered here."

Jade, one of Diamant's retainers, added, "Visiting another world may help write better comedies."

Amber, another one of Diamant's retainers, chimed in, "I'm so excited to not only go to another world but also to meet other Heroes!"

Then, Amber approached Kiran and shook his hand. "Um... Thank you, Kiran, for making this possible."

Kiran replied to Amber, a hint of amusement in his voice, "It seems like you're the most excited of all the retainers gathered here."

"Hmm, well-spoken, Kiran," Diamant, the crown prince of Brodia, turned to Kiran and remarked, "Amber has been like that ever since he saw me being summoned as a Hero by you, Kiran."

"That's good to hear," Alear replied.

Sharena chimed in, "Is that so?" Then she turned to Amber, "I know of another Hero who is very similar to you. Her name is Cynthia. Um, I think she's from Ylisse."

"Alright!" Amber's eyes lit up, "I'm even more excited now, especially knowing there's a Hero like Cynthia that I can relate to."

As Sharena and Amber happily converse, Commander Anna approaches Kiran and asks, "Are you ready to activate the Outrealm Gate?"

"Hmm..." Kiran muttered as readied his Breidablik. "I'm curious as to why I need to activate the Outrealm Gate."

Alfonse then speaks to Kiran, explaining, "While Heroes can freely travel through the Outrealm Gate, people like Princess Ivy and her retainers aren't Heroes. They can only use the Outrealm Gate when you're present, Kiran."

"Hmm," Kiran mused. "That makes sense as to why I'm needed to activate the Outrealm Gate."

Kiran readied his Breidablik, with his mind contemplating the significance of his role in activating the Outrealm Gate. With purposeful determination, he aimed his Breidablik at the gate and released a beam of radiant light. The air crackled with energy as the Outrealm Gate hummed and then opened before them.

"Everyone..." Turning to his allies, Kiran declared, "Let's go to Zenith, shall we?"

"Yeah, Kiran," Alear replied. "Let's go."

Without hesitation, Alear, Kiran, and their allies stepped through the gateway, vanishing into the unknown realm. However, just as the portal began to close, Sommie, the mystical creature from Somniel, dashed towards the diminishing opening and leaped through at the last moment, disappearing into Zenith with them.

---

In a dazzling burst of light, Alear, Kiran, and their companions emerged from the mystical Outrealm Gate into the enchanting expanse of the World of Zenith. Alear, the Divine Dragon of Lythos, her eyes still adjusting to the new surroundings, took a moment to glance around before addressing the group.

"Is everyone alright?" Alear inquired, concern etched across her face.

"We're all fine," Celine, the princess of Firene, replied as she stood with her retainers, Louis and Chloe. "No issues on our end."

"Uh, I'm okay," Alfred replied. "Etie and Boucheron are doing okay."

Diamant, Brodia's crown prince, chimed in, "Likewise. My retainers and I emerged unscathed."

Alcryst, his gaze sweeping the unfamiliar landscape, offered his report. "All accounted for on our side. We're okay."

Ivy, Elusia's crown princess, spoke up with a hint of wry amusement. "Well, aside from feeling a bit disoriented from traveling from one world to another, my retainers and I are intact."

Alear sighed with relief, a smile playing on her lips. "Good to hear. We've got a world to explore and challenges to face. Let's stick together, everyone."

"Good to hear," Kiran responded with a nod, a sense of determination in his gaze. He then turned to Alfonse, with a question in mind.

"Alfonse, where will we be meeting Princess Veronica?" Kiran inquired, his eyes searching for a strategic point to gather.

Alfonse considered for a moment before answering, "Princess Veronica should be meeting us at the Elyos Outrealm Gate. Let's head there and await her arrival."

Sharena, always curious and observant, scanned the surroundings. Her keen eyes soon caught sight of a distant figure on horseback, rapidly approaching their location.

"Look over there!" Sharena exclaimed, pointing in the direction of the approaching figure. "Someone's coming!"

Commander Anna narrowed her eyes as she followed Sharena's gesture. With a hint of authority in her voice, she declared, "That horsebacked figure— that's Princess Veronica. Get ready, everyone."

As the mysterious horseback rider drew near, the group readied themselves for the impending meeting with the enigmatic princess, the air thick with anticipation and uncertainty.

Veronica gracefully approached the waiting group on horseback, her regal presence evident as she acknowledged them. "Hmm..." She stoically remarked with a glint of appreciation in her eyes. "It seems you all arrived just in time."

Alfonse, ever composed, responded with a slight smile. "Impeccable timing is a trait of our group in such matters," he remarked with a hint of pride in his voice.

Veronica nodded in agreement, her gaze shifting toward the forest on the border between Askr and Embla. "The Curse Directive encampment is in that forest. We should be able to reach it within an hour or two," she informed, her tone businesslike.

Kiran wasted no time in emphasizing the urgency of the situation. "Then, it's settled. We must make haste to that encampment," he declared, his eyes focused on the looming mission ahead.

Alear, standing beside Kiran, chimed in with a determined nod. "Agreed. Let's move quickly," she affirmed, a sense of shared purpose uniting the group as they prepared to venture into the heart of the forest and confront the challenges that awaited them.

As the group left the Elyos Outrealm Gate for the forest situated on the border between Askr and Embla, Sommie jumped out of the portal. As it landed in Zenith, Sommie looked around and saw a large castle in the distance. With its curiously peaked, Sommie walked towards Askr Castle.

---

Around an hour later, the group emerged from the dense forest at the border between Askr and Embla, the atmosphere shifted ominously. The once clear skies above them began to darken, casting an unnatural shadow over the landscape. Sensing the change, Sharena turned to Kiran with a quizzical expression.

"Kiran, why didn't you use the Breidablik to open a portal to this area?" Sharena inquired, her curiosity evident in her voice.

Kiran explained as he twirled the Breidablik in his right hand, "I've never been to this part of Zenith before. The Breidablik can only open portals to places I've visited previously."

Sharena, realizing the limitations, responded sheepishly, "Oh, I see. That's good to hear, Kiran."

The group pressed forward, navigating the unfamiliar terrain with a newfound understanding of the challenges that lay ahead. The darkened skies served as a grim backdrop to their journey, and as they moved deeper into the unknown, the air became charged with an unsettling energy.

Veronica, her eyes fixed on the ominous sky, began to explain the dire situation. "The dark miasma above the encampment is a potent curse, conjured by the Curse Directive," she revealed, her voice tinged with gravity as she conveyed the severity of the threat.

Alfonse, always focused on gathering crucial information, directed his inquiry to Veronica. "Can you provide more details on the curse?" he asked, his brow furrowed in concern.

Veronica, taking a moment to gather her thoughts, briefly closed her eyes. When she opened them again, a somber expression adorned her features. "Because of this curse, Curse Directive soldiers will spawn periodically in this area," she disclosed, the weight of the revelation settling upon the group.

Commander Anna, ever pragmatic and quick to strategize, interjected with a stern tone. "We need to be on guard. The enemy could strike at any moment," she declared, her eyes scanning the surroundings for potential threats.

Amidst the darkened forest, an Emblian soldier, a male Infantry Mage under Princess Veronica's command, rushed toward her with urgency etched on his face. "Princess Veronica!" he exclaimed, catching his breath, "Emblian forces are currently engaged in battles against Curse Directive forces all across the forest!"

Alear, ever perceptive, noted the unfolding events. "Hmm, it seems the battle has just started," she remarked, her gaze assessing the escalating situation as she readied her sword, Libération. "Get ready, everyone!"

Not long afterward, multiple Curse Directive soldiers started to emerge from the ground, with their weapons ready against the group. Upon seeing enemy soldiers spawned out from the ground, Veronica wasted no time.

Addressing the male Infantry Mage, Veronica issued a swift command, "Return to Embla as quickly as you can. Inform our forces of the situation."

"As you command, Princess Veronica!" The male Infantry Mage saluted at Veronica, acknowledging the urgency of her order, and promptly turned on his heel, sprinting back through the forest in the direction of Embla.

Left behind, Alear, Kiran, and their allies found themselves surrounded by the encroaching Curse Directive soldiers, the air thick with tension as they readied themselves for the ensuing battle.

---

And so, the Curse Directive soldiers, their movements fueled by malevolence, launched an aggressive assault against Alear, Kiran, and their allies. As she saw the group was being fought by the enemy forces at all sides, Alear quickly activated the Ring of the Hero-King and muttered the incantation.

"Emblem, Engage!" Alear chanted. But, her Emblem Ring did not activate, catching Alear off guard. "It didn't work?!"

As Alear was distraught, one of the Curse Directive soldiers, an Infantry Mage, conjured a bolt of lightning from their Elthunder tome that was aimed at Alear. Sensing that Alear was distracted, Kiran quickly fired a bolt of magic from his Breidablik at the enemy Infantry Mage, blasting them away.

"Alear, we can worry about the Emblem Rings later!" Kiran exclaimed. "We have a battle to deal with!"

"Right, I understand," Alear replied as she nodded to Kiran, regaining her composure. "Even though Emblem Rings are unusable right now, I'm still a Hero contracted under you, Kiran."

As Alear regained her focus, an Axe Fighter, bearing a menacing Steel Axe, lunged at Alear with formidable strength, the weapon poised to strike.

However, Alear, with a grace befitting her status as a Divine Dragon of Elyos, anticipated the impending attack. With swift precision, she readied her sword, Libération, and expertly parried the swinging steel axe. Seizing the moment, Alear countered with a riposte slash, her blade slicing through the Axe Fighter's defenses. The cursed soldier staggered backward, defeated.

"I am the Divine Dragon!" Alear declared, her voice echoing through the battlefield, a testament to her prowess and unwavering resolve. The group, inspired by Alear's skillful defense and powerful counterattack, rallied to face the ongoing onslaught of Curse Directive soldiers, determined to overcome the dark forces threatening their mission.

Amid the chaotic battlefield, an Axe Cavalier thundered forward on horseback, their formidable Steel Axe poised to strike at Alfonse. Swift to react, Alfonse gripped his sword, Fólkvangr, ready for the oncoming assault. The clash between the Axe Cavalier and Alfonse erupted, the clash of steel against steel resonating through the air.

As the intense duel unfolded, an Infantry Archer took advantage of the distraction, aiming their bow at Alfonse. Recognizing the imminent threat, Kiran, unwilling to stand idly by, swiftly readied his Breidablik. With precision, he fired a magic bolt at the Infantry Archer, their form dissolving as they succumbed to the attack.

With the immediate threat neutralized, Alfonse seized the opportunity. With a deft maneuver, he used Fólkvangr to slash at the Axe Cavalier, the powerful blow defeating the mounted adversary. As the Axe Cavalier fell, Alfonse uttered, "Above all, the mission!"

---

Within the chaotic melee, two menacing Curse Directive soldiers, a Sword Cavalier, and an Axe Cavalier, targeted Sharena with determined intent. Undeterred, Sharena, ever valiant, readied her lance, Fensalir, preparing for the impending clash.

Just as the Axe Cavalier closed in, a sudden burst of flame erupted, and the soldier was forcefully blasted away. Sharena, momentarily relieved, turned to find Ivy, Elusia's crown princess, her Elfire tome still aglow with residual energy.

Ivy, with a nonchalant demeanor, addressed Sharena, "As an ally, Princess Sharena, I'm obliged to help."

Sharena, a bright smile breaking across her face, expressed her gratitude, "Thanks for the opening, Princess Ivy."

"You're welcome, but it's not over yet," Ivy, with a decisive tone, replies as she turns to her trusted retainers.

"Zelkov, weaken the Sword Cavalier with your daggers," Ivy ordered, with her instructions clear and to the point. "Kagetsu, finish off that Axe Cavalier."

Without hesitation, Kagetsu charged at the Axe Cavalier with his Killing Edge at the ready. In a swift slash, Kagetsu finished off the Axe Cavalier.

"One less foe," Kagetsu muttered as the Axe Cavalier fell off from their horse and slumped into the ground.

At the same time, as he took Ivy's command to heart, Zelkov swiftly readied his daggers. With precision, he launched the blades at the Sword Cavalier, the sharp implements finding their mark. As the daggers struck.

"Beneath *contempt*," Zelkov muttered under his breath, expressing his disdain for the enemy.

Sensing the opportune moment, Sharena, ever vigilant, seized the opening created by Zelkov's attack. With Fensalir at the ready, she leaped towards the now-weakened Sword Cavalier, her lance striking true.

As the decisive blow defeated the Sword Cavalier, Sharena, triumphant, exclaimed, "That's my opening!"

---

It took some time, but the first wave of Curse Directive soldiers was defeated by the group. After the initial onslaught of Curse Directive soldiers was defeated by Alear, Kiran, and their allies, Veronica spoke up, her voice cutting through the chaos.

"Hmm..." Veronica muttered with a somber undertone in her words. "More of these Curse Directive soldiers will keep spawning due to the curse on this area."

"And we can't even use our Emblem Rings while in Zenith," Alear said as she looked at the Ring of the Hero-King on her left hand. "Any ideas, Kiran?"

Baldraz, the enigmatic spirit residing within the Breidablik, addressed Kiran with a momentous revelation. "The Breidablik has gathered enough energy to make Emblem Rings usable in Zenith," he declared, his words carrying a weight of significance.

Upon hearing this, Kiran took swift action. "Hmm... Alear, gather your Emblem Rings," he instructed, a sense of urgency in his voice as he turned to the Divine Dragon.

Alear, ready to follow Kiran's lead, replied, "Sure, Kiran. What's your plan involving the Emblem Rings?" she inquired, her eyes reflecting a readiness for whatever strategy Kiran had in mind.

Kiran responded to Alear's inquiry, his tone focused and determined. "While in Elyos, the Breidablik has gathered enough energy to empower the Emblem Rings, making them usable in Zenith as well," he explained, a spark of excitement in his eyes.

Alear's eyes widened at the revelation, a mix of surprise and anticipation coloring her expression. "That's great to hear," she exclaimed, nodding in agreement. "Let's go with your plan, Kiran."

With a swift motion, Alear presented the six Emblem Rings in her possession to Kiran. As the Ring of the Hero-King, the Ring of the Caring Princess, the Ring of the Holy Knight, the Ring of the Sage Lord, the Ring of the Young Lion, and the Ring of the Dawn Maiden were presented to Kiran, the rest of the group watched with curiosity and anticipation, recognizing the significance of this moment. Kiran, holding the Emblem Rings, focused his attention on the Breidablik.

In a mesmerizing display, Kiran unleashed a pulse of divine magic from the Breidablik. The energy flowed into the Emblem Rings, weaving a connection between the powerful artifacts and the magic-infused atmosphere of Zenith. The air crackled with energy as the group witnessed the transformation, eager to see the newfound potential these empowered Emblem Rings would bring to their fight against the Curse Directive soldiers.

The six Emblem Rings emitted a soft, ethereal glow as the empowering magic from the Breidablik coursed through each of them. From the Ring of the Hero-King, Emblem Marth materialized, a manifestation of legendary proportions. With a dignified presence, he turned to Kiran, gratitude evident in his expression.

"I thank you, Kiran, for allowing us, the Emblems, to properly manifest in Zenith," Emblem Marth conveyed, his voice carrying a sense of noble appreciation.

"This is my first time seeing an Emblem," Alfonse, wide-eyed at the sight of the Emblem, addressed Alear with a hint of awe. "It's an incredible sight."

"I could say the same!" Commander Anna agreed. "I can see the resemblance between Emblems and their Hero counterparts."

"Me too!" Sharena chimed. "Having Emblems and Heroes side by side is incredible!"

Alear, sharing Alfonse's sentiment, replied. "Indeed, the Emblems are truly a sight to behold."

Kiran, the orchestrator of this transformative event, expressed his satisfaction. "I'm glad the attempt worked out. Now, Emblem Rings can be used in Zenith," he remarked, with a sense of accomplishment and relief evident in his words.

"I can understand you didn't do that earlier because of the heat of the battle, Kiran," Alear remarked. "Now that the Emblem Rings can be used in Zenith, we can go on to our mission."

"Agreed," Veronica stoically replied. "We need to make haste into the Curse Directive encampment and dispel this curse before it's too late."

With the Emblem Rings empowered to make them usable in Zenith, the group traveled further into the forest, hoping to reach the Curse Directive encampment and dispel the curse before more enemy soldiers manifest from the shadows.

---

As Alear, Kiran, and their allies were fighting Curse Directive forces in the forest, Sommie, the ethereal embodiment of Somniel, gracefully advanced toward Askr Castle. As it moved, Sommie's attention was drawn upward, and it beheld a vision of a young woman, draped in yellow attire and adorned with butterfly wings of the same hue. This vibrant figure was Peony, a ljosalfr and one of the Heroes from Alfheimr under contract with Kiran.

Peony, her presence exuding warmth and kindness, addressed Sommie. "You must be lost," she gently remarked, her voice carrying a soothing tone.

Sommie, responding to Peony's words, nuzzled against her, a silent acknowledgment. Without hesitation, Peony scooped up Sommie, cradling the creature in her arms.

Overcome with adoration, Peony couldn't help but gush, "Oh, you're just too cute! I think Commander Anna wouldn't mind bringing this creature to the castle grounds!"

With Sommie nestled in her arms, Peony gracefully ascended into the air, her butterfly wings carrying them back toward Askr Castle. The picturesque scene of the ljosalfr and the enigmatic creature, bathed in the soft glow of Alfheimr's light, added a touch of whimsy to the grounds of Askr Castle as they made their way home.

As Peony gracefully descended, her butterfly wings carrying her back to Askr Castle, she landed in one of the courtyards. Nearby, Ash, the retainer of the Askr, the God of Openness, observed the return. Intrigued, Ash addressed Peony.

"Oh! It is you, Peony, the ljosalfr from Alfheimr!"Ash inquired with her tone a mix of curiosity and caution. "What is that creature you brought back to the castle? That creature is unlike I have ever seen!"

Peony, gently placing Sommie on the ground, replied with a warm smile, "I don't know its name, but isn't it just adorable?"

"On it being adorable, I can certainly agree," Ash, her gaze fixed on Sommie, responded, "We do not know where this creature came from. So, you better keep an eye on it until Commander Anna returns to Askr."

Peony, sharing a moment of agreement, nodded. "Of course, Ash! I'll make sure it's safe," she affirmed, her smile reflecting the sincerity of her promise.

The enchanting courtyard of Askr Castle became the backdrop to this unexpected encounter, as Peony and Ash prepared to keep watch over the mysterious creature named Sommie.

---

In the dense forest, Alear, Kiran, and their allies were walking through the forest. Along the way, Alear gave three of the Emblem Rings, the Ring of the Caring Princess, the Ring of the Holy Knight, and the Ring of the Young Lion, to Alfred, Celine, and Diamant.

"I'm glad that the Emblem Rings can now function outside of Elyos," Celine said as she held the Ring of the Caring Princess in her left hand.

"I agree," Alfred replied. "And we owe that to Kiran for making this possible."

As Alear glanced back at her allies, she let out a small smile as Alfred, Celine, and Diamant wielded the Emblem Rings with pride. Then, Alear glanced at Ivy, who was looking at the ground.

"Hmm... I remember you using the Ring of the Sage Lord in our first encounter," Alear said as she approached Ivy. "I can lend that very ring to you if you want to."

"There's no need for that, Alear," Ivy replied. "I just have a lot of things in mind."

"Hmm, I think we can all relate to that," Alear acknowledged. "We're allies now, Princess Ivy. If you have something to talk about, I'll be willing to listen."

"Thank you," Ivy replied as she let out a smile. "I'll keep that in mind..."

Eventually, the group reached an open clearing. Veronica, the astute princess, spoke up, addressing the group with a sense of urgency.

"We've made it to the Curse Directive encampment," she announced, her gaze scanning the surroundings.

Alfonse, ever observant, voiced his concern. "One of your Emblian soldiers mentioned that Curse Directive forces were in combat against the Emblian army. Why does the encampment look deserted?" he inquired, a hint of skepticism in his tone.

Suddenly, a male Curse Directive Thief emerged from one of the tents, catching everyone off guard. With an air of mischief, he explained, "The Emblian army that Princess Veronica deployed suffered heavy casualties. They couldn't withstand our forces and had to retreat from the area."

The revelation hung in the air, explaining the seemingly abandoned state of the encampment. The group now faced the challenge of navigating through this eerie landscape, knowing that the Curse Directive forces had not only anticipated their arrival but also repelled the previous Emblian assault with considerable force.

Veronica, ever assertive, turned her attention to the male Curse Directive Thief, Shade, seeking information. "Who are you?" she inquired, her tone edged with authority.

Shade, undeterred, introduced himself in response. "I am Shade, one of the commanders of the Curse Directive," he declared, his voice carrying a sinister resonance.

Veronica, pressing for more details, asked about the whereabouts of Shadow Director Ebony, Shade's superior. "Where is Ebony?" she demanded, her gaze piercing.

Shade, with a touch of dark amusement, responded, "Shadow Director Ebony has fled the area. I was waiting for you and your group to arrive."

As tension hung in the air, Shade wielded his daggers with practiced precision, cutting open one of the nearby tents. The fabric fell away, revealing a startling sight—a huge black gem pulsating with an ominous glow, surrounded by a dark miasma.

Kiran, ever inquisitive, directed his question to Veronica. "What is this black gem?" he asked, his gaze fixed on the ominous artifact.

Veronica, the font of knowledge at this moment, responded with a hint of gravity in her voice. "This black gem is the source of the dark miasma that permeates the forest. It allows Curse Directive soldiers to spawn in the area," she explained, her words carrying the weight of revelation.

Sharena, curious and insightful, jumped in with another question. "Did you learn this from Letizia, the previous leader of the Curse Directive?" she inquired, her eyes narrowing in thought.

Veronica nodded in affirmation. "Yes, Sissy—Letizia," she corrected with a touch of nostalgia, "She left a lot of notes for me when we were still on amicable terms. This information was among them."

The air grew heavy with the implications of this newfound knowledge. Veronica's connection to the Curse Directive's inner workings, forged through a once-affectionate relationship with Letizia, now became a crucial piece in understanding and confronting the dark forces that loomed over the cursed encampment.

The moment Letizia's name was mentioned, Shade's expression darkened, and he glared at Veronica with a venomous intensity. "You would dare sully Letizia's name in vain?" he calmly stated as his voice was seething with anger and resentment.

As the tension between Shade and Veronica reached its peak, the black gem at the heart of the encampment reacted. Emitting an eerie dark light, it forged an impenetrable barrier that enclosed the Curse Directive encampment. A sinister aura enveloped the area, casting an ominous shadow over Alear, Kiran, and their allies.

The ground beneath them stirred, and multiple Curse Directive soldiers emerged, spawning from the very earth itself. The group found themselves encircled, trapped within the confines of the cursed encampment. Alfonse, realizing the gravity of the situation, voiced the truth that had become painfully apparent.

"This was a trap from the start," Alfonse declared with his tone a mix of frustration and concern.

Shade, confirming Alfonse's suspicion, admitted, "Indeed, it was a trap. Ebony has long fled." He then directed his menacing gaze toward Veronica, pointing his dagger at her with a declaration that sent shivers through the air.

"Neither Princess Veronica, Kiran, nor all of your allies will leave this encampment alive," Shade proclaimed, the gravity of his words amplifying the dire nature of the predicament they now found themselves in.

---

At Somniel's Training Yard, Yunaka and Ylgr engaged in a rigorous practice session, throwing daggers at training dummies. The air crackled with the sound of blades hitting their mark. Yunaka, observing the effects of Ylgr's Sylgr dagger, noticed a layer of frost coating the struck training dummy. Intrigued, she turned to Ylgr with a question.

"Wowzers!" Yunaka inquired, her curiosity piqued. "What's the deal with your dagger?"

Ylgr, focused and determined, replied, "According to Kiran, Sylgr emits a freezing aura when it's thrown at the enemy. Handy, right?"

As the two continued their practice, the tranquil atmosphere of the Training Yard was disrupted by the arrival of Fjorm. Fjorm, Nifl's second princess, questioned Yunaka's absence from the group heading to Zenith.

"You must be Yunaka, right?" Fjorm asked, her gaze questioning. "I'm wondering why didn't you join the rest of the group in Zenith?"

Yunaka, casual in her demeanor, shrugged in response to Fjorm's question. "It's just personal preference, you know? I have this feeling that I need to stick around Elyos in case something comes up," she explained, her tone reflecting a mix of practicality and intuition.

Fjorm, appreciating Yunaka's perspective, nodded in agreement. "You have a point. It's important to follow your instincts," she acknowledged, with a hint of understanding in her gaze.

Yunaka, eager to shift the conversation, offered a smile. "Let's talk about something else. Your lance, for example. Where was it forged?" she inquired, her curiosity now focused on the weapons of the Nifl royalty.

Fjorm, proud of her heritage, began to share the story. "Leiptr, Gjoll, Sylgr, and the Blizzard tome—all of our weapons were created at the highest point in the Kingdom of Nifl."

"Yeah!" Ylgr chimed in. "Um... Each of our weapons was blessed by Nifl herself! Isn't that cool?"

"It sure is, little snow cutie!" Yunaka cheerfully replied. "I can teach you a thing or two about dagger throwing! What do you say."

As Ylgr's face lit up when Yunaka offered pointers, Fjorm observed nearby, but Fjorm couldn't help but wonder what Kiran and Alear were doing back in Zenith.

'Kiran, I hope you're doing well in your mission,' Fjorm thought as she kept watching Ylgr and Yunaka practicing in the training dummies.

---

Amid the escalating conflict, Curse Directive forces launched a relentless assault on the group. Shade, harboring a deep-seated animosity, wasted no time and hurled several daggers toward Veronica with swift and calculated precision. However, before the deadly projectiles could reach their target, Alfonse, swift and vigilant, intercepted the attack, parrying the daggers with his formidable sword, Fólkvangr.

Alfonse, as he deflected the daggers, spoke to Veronica with a sense of concern and observation. "Shade seems to have a lot of enmity towards you," he remarked, his eyes never leaving the relentless assailant.

Veronica, undeterred by the danger, replied with a shrewd observation. "He's either a former Emblian noble or someone related to one, throwing his lot with the Curse Directive," she remarked, her words revealing a familiarity with the intricacies of her adversaries.

Then, Veronica conjured a shadow orb from her tome, Enclosing Dark, that was aimed at Shade. Shade, unaffected by Veronica's counterattack, responded by deflecting Veronica's attacks by throwing one of his daggers.

"You made a pretty good guess, Princess Veronica," Shade admitted. "But, your remarks won't save you from my attacks."

The battlefield echoed with tension as Shade, fueled by his motives and alliances, prepared for the next onslaught against Veronica and her allies.

---

The battlefield resonated with the clash of weapons and the roar of magic as the group confronted Curse Directive soldiers on multiple fronts. Kiran, amidst the chaos, skillfully fended off Curse Directive soldiers one after another. His Breidablik glowed with a radiant white light, a testament to the formidable power it held against the encroaching enemy forces.

Amidst the tumult, Kiran's attention was drawn to Alcryst and his retainers, Lapis and Citrinne, who found themselves surrounded by a relentless battalion of Curse Directive soldiers. The gravity of the situation became apparent, and Kiran, with a sense of urgency, shouted their names in a desperate attempt to cut through the cacophony of battle.

"Um, we're surrounded," Alcryst grimaced. "This is not good at all..."

"We're not going to let you get hurt, Prince Alcryst," Lapis replied as she readied her Iron Sword.

"We'll defend you with everything we have!" Citrinne replied as she readied her Elwind tome.

'Alcryst, Lapis, Citrinne...' Kiran's thoughts resonated across the battlefield, a reminder that, despite Alcryst's status as a Hero and the support of his dedicated retainers, the sheer numbers of the Curse Directive soldiers posed a formidable challenge.

In the face of overwhelming odds, Kiran grappled with the harsh reality that even the might of a Hero could be overshadowed by the sheer force of an organized enemy battalion. The battle raged on, with Kiran determined to find a way to tip the scales in their favor.

Amid the chaotic battlefield, Kiran, having successfully defeated a Curse Directive Mage that sought to assail him, found a moment of respite. It was during this moment that Baldraz, the spirit residing within the Breidablik, spoke to Kiran with a suggestion.

"I suggest you summon Lapis and Citrinne as Heroes to help even the odds," Baldraz suggested, his ethereal voice carrying a sense of strategic insight.

Kiran, recognizing the merit in Baldraz's suggestion, replied with determination, "It's worth the attempt."

Ready to shift the tide of battle, Kiran loaded two Golden Summon Orbs into his Breidablik. With precision and focus, he aimed the divine artifact at the crucial gap between Alcryst, Lapis, and Citrinne, and the encroaching Curse Directive battalion.

The air crackled with anticipation as the Breidablik discharged its summoning magic, weaving a connection between Kiran and the Golden Summon Orbs.

With a resolute chant, Kiran invoked the power of the Breidablik, his voice carrying a magical resonance. "Gathering stars to call upon the two retainers to Brodia's Tender Archer! Become the path its light shines upon!" The incantation echoed through the battlefield, a lyrical command to summon aid.

As the words left Kiran's lips, he surged forward, running with determined purpose toward the beleaguered trio of Alcryst, Lapis, and Citrinne. In a seamless motion, Kiran pulled the trigger on the Breidablik, unleashing two streams of magic energy, each charged with the radiant power of a Golden Summon Orb. The ethereal projectiles found their mark, hitting Lapis and Citrinne with pinpoint accuracy.

The impact of the Golden Summon Orbs triggered a dazzling display of energy. A radiant wave surged forth from Lapis and Citrinne, a manifestation of their summoned power. The unleashed energy acted as a formidable force, sweeping through the Curse Directive battalion with a force that sent them staggering backward.

Having reunited with Alcryst, Kiran took a moment to channel the power of the Breidablik once again. His voice, resonating with magical authority, intoned, "Hero Summon! Be inducted as Heroes, Lapis, the Mighty Flower, and Citrinne, the Caring Noble!"

Alcryst, observing the unfolding mystical spectacle, questioned Kiran with a raised eyebrow. "Uh, Kiran! Is that what I think it is?" he inquired, seeking confirmation.

Kiran, a glint of determination in his eyes, affirmed Alcryst's suspicion. "Alcryst, I have summoned your retainers as Heroes to help us even the odds," he explained, his words carrying the weight of strategic intent.

"How do you do? I'm Citrinne, a royal soldier of Brodia. It's an honor to be summoned by you, Kiran," Citrinne, touched by the gesture, directed her gratitude towards Kiran. "Thank you for summoning me as a Hero," she expressed, her tone sincere and appreciative.

"I'm Lapis, a royal soldier of Brodia," Lapis, ever straightforward, chimed in, "So, this is what being a Hero feels like," her words resonating with a sense of duty and readiness for the challenges that lay ahead.

Suddenly, the Iron Sword and the Elwind tome that Lapis and Citrinne had in their hands were transformed into new weapons as a tangible aura of power surrounded the two retainers. Baldraz, the knowledgeable spirit within the Breidablik, spoke to Kiran, offering insights into the newly transformed weapons.

"Citrinne's new weapon is called the Tome of Luxuries," Baldraz explained, his ethereal voice carrying a sense of reverence for the tome. "It embodies Citrinne's full potential, a powerful tome that allows her to share her energies with nearby allies."

Continuing the informative narration, Baldraz turned his attention to Lapis. "Lapis' new sword is called Defier's Sword," he announced. "This weapon gains strength when the enemy reinforces their defenses, making it a formidable choice in battle."

Citrinne, marveling at the newfound power within her hands, spoke with a hint of astonishment. "This tome is incredible!" she remarked, a sense of gratitude evident in her voice. "I wonder what is the name of this tome?"

"Citrinne, your new tome is called the Tome of Luxuries which allows you to share a part of your power with allies," Kiran answered, then he turned his attention to Lapis. "And Lapis, your new sword is called the Defier's Sword, an unbreakable sword that becomes more powerful when the enemy reinforces their defenses."

"So, my new tome is called the Tome of Luxuries," Citrinne remarked as she readied her new tome. "I like it! It's as if this tome embodies me."

Lapis, pragmatic and to the point, chimed in as she twirled her new sword. "Defier's Sword, huh? At least my new sword won't lose durability," she stated, highlighting a practical advantage in the face of prolonged battles.

With the Curse Directive battalion beginning to recover from the knockback, Alcryst took charge of the situation. "Um... Leave the enemy battalion to me and my retainers," he declared to Kiran, determination etched on his face. "You should go aid our other allies, Kiran."

Nodding in acknowledgment, Kiran replied, "Be careful, all of you." With those parting words, Kiran hastened to join the fray elsewhere, leaving Alcryst, Citrinne, and Lapis to face the looming threat.

The trio, undeterred and resolute, readied themselves against the very enemy battalion that had surrounded them moments before. Alcryst, a master archer, swiftly fired several arrows into the ranks of the Curse Directive soldiers, while Citrinne and Lapis provided formidable support, each wielding their newly manifested weapons.

"For the pride of Brodia!" Alcryst exclaimed, his voice cutting through the chaos of battle. The rallying cry echoed as the three Heroes stood united against the renewed assault, ready to defend and triumph in the face of adversity.

---

As Kiran swiftly made his way towards Commander Anna, Alear, Alfred, Celine, Diamant, and their retainers, Alear couldn't help but voice the curiosity that had sparked in her. "We saw a flash of light in your direction earlier," she remarked, her tone indicating a blend of concern and intrigue.

Kiran, catching his breath but determined to explain, replied, "Alcryst and his retainers were under attack. I summoned them as Heroes to even the odds." His words carried the weight of strategic decisions made in the heat of battle.

Diamant, grateful for Kiran's intervention on behalf of his brother, Alcryst, stepped forward to express his gratitude. "Thanks for helping out Alcryst in the middle of the battle, Kiran," he acknowledged, his appreciation evident in his tone.

Amber, one of Diamant's retainers, spoke to Kiran about his aspiration to become a Hero. "Aw, I always want to be a Hero," he declared, his voice carrying determination and ambition.

Kiran, acknowledging the earnest request, took a moment to explain the complexities involved. "Becoming a Hero under my contract isn't something to be taken lightly," he cautioned. "Summoning a Hero requires a special resource, and the Hero-Summoner contract must be mutually beneficial."

Commander Anna, always astute, interjected with a question. "Kiran, are you referring to the Summon Orbs as that special resource?" she inquired, seeking clarification.

Kiran, affirming Anna's insight, nodded. "Exactly. Summon Orbs are a crucial part of the process, and ensuring a mutual benefit is key to the contract," he explained. The conversation delved into the intricacies of Hero summoning, highlighting the rarity and significance of the resources involved. "But, be patient Amber. You'll realize it when the time comes when you get to be summoned."

As Amber nodded in understanding, the group, now strengthened by their combined efforts, stood prepared for the challenges that continued to unfold in the cursed encampment. Alear, acknowledging the impact of Kiran's summoning, expressed her gratitude.

"Either way, summoning Citrinne and Lapis as Heroes did help even the odds," Alear remarked, a sense of appreciation in her tone.

"Hmm, in that, I agree, Alear," Kiran, seeking more information, turned to Alear with a question. "And now, I'm curious as to why are all of you here?" he inquired, curious about their collective purpose.

Alear, with a determined resolve, explained her objective. "I want to destroy the large black gem that's spawning the Curse Directive soldiers around the encampment," she declared as she pointed at the black gem in the distance, her words carrying a sense of urgency and purpose.

Commander Anna, joining the conversation, added a crucial detail. "While Alfonse and Veronica are currently fighting Shade, the black gem has been spawning Curse Directive soldiers by the minute," she explained, emphasizing the critical nature of the ongoing battles within the cursed encampment.

The group now faced a dual challenge—confronting Shade while aiming to destroy the source of the curse that fueled the enemy forces.

Celine, recognizing the challenges ahead, voiced her concern. "Breaking through several enemy lines to destroy the black gem won't be easy, even with our Emblem Rings," she stated, her assessment reflecting the formidable nature of their task.

Alfred, grateful for Kiran's timely arrival, expressed his relief. "I'm glad you arrived just in time, Kiran. So, any ideas?" he remarked, acknowledging the pivotal role Kiran played in their current situation.

With a keen awareness, Kiran surveyed the Curse Directive battalions using the Breidablik. A realization dawned upon him as he observed the enemy forces.

"Um... Many of the soldiers are armored units," Kiran noted, his voice tinged with realization. "They'll intercept both melees and ranged attacks, making our approach more challenging."

"Near Save and Far Save," Baldraz noted. "Ebony must have prepared these battalions well."

The group now faced the daunting task of navigating through heavily fortified enemy lines, requiring careful strategy and coordination to reach and destroy the ominous black gem that loomed as the source of the Curse Directive soldiers.

Baldraz, the insightful spirit residing within the Breidablik, suggested Kiran in their dire situation. "The Elyos Heroes should activate their Emblem Rings and fight off each Curse Directive battalion," he proposed, his spectral voice resonating with a strategic solution.

Kiran, considering the suggestion, acknowledged the necessity for a more forceful approach. "In the end, brute force is needed to break through each enemy battalion to destroy that black gem," he remarked, recognizing the challenges ahead.

Baldraz, confirming Kiran's assessment, concurred. "Indeed, that would be the case for this battle," he agreed, aligning with the strategy of confronting the Curse Directive forces head-on.

"Hmm... Kiran?" Alear, seeking guidance, turned her gaze toward Kiran. "Do you have any ideas that will help in our situation?" she inquired, her question reflecting a trust in Kiran's strategic acumen.

The group stood at a pivotal moment, poised to implement a plan that combined the strength of the Emblem Rings with the might of their summoned Heroes to confront and overcome the armored Curse Directive battalions.

Kiran, echoing the sentiment of necessity, replied to Alear's inquiry. "Sometimes, overwhelming force is needed to achieve victory," he stated, emphasizing the pragmatic approach required in their current predicament.

"Hmm... I agree with that, Kiran," Alear affirmed as she aligned with Kiran's perspective. "It's time we use our Emblem Rings!"

She, along with Alfred, Celine, and Diamant, had their Emblem Rings at the ready. Each of them wielded a specific Emblem Ring—Alear with the Ring of the Hero-King, Alfred with the Ring of the Holy Knight, Celine with the Ring of the Caring Princess, and Diamant with the Ring of the Young Lion.

In a synchronized display of determination, Alear, Alfred, Celine, and Diamant simultaneously chanted, "Emblem Engage!"

The air shimmered with energy as they transformed into their formidable Engage forms, ready to unleash the power of their Emblem Rings against the encroaching Curse Directive battalions. The battlefield now bore witness to the convergence of strength and strategy as the Elyos Heroes prepared to engage the enemy with overwhelming force.

As Alear, Alfred, Celine, and Diamant assumed their powerful Engage forms, the battlefield erupted into a flurry of action. As the group briefly split into two parties, each party fought its way into the Curse Directive battalions. Thus, the two parties swiftly defeated several enemies, showcasing the might of their Emblem Rings and their prowess as Heroes, with Kiran, Commander Anna, and the retainers finishing off any enemy stragglers.

However, amidst the clashes and triumphs, a sudden shift in the atmosphere signaled a foreboding turn of events. As the two parties approached closer with every Curse Directive battalion they managed to defeat, the black gem, the source of the Curse Directive soldiers, began to emit a dark miasma, and new enemies spawned near its ominous location.

"They're relentless!" Alfred declared as he took down a recently spawned Curse Directive soldier with his Arcane Qiang. "Each time we defeat one enemy, another takes their place!"

"I agree, brother!" Celine replied as she used her Joyous Tome to blast away a Curse Directive Mage that was attacking her. "We need to hurry and destroy that black gem!"

As he overheard Alfred and Celine through their contract with Kiran, Baldraz, the perceptive spirit within the Breidablik, warned Kiran. "Even with Alear, Alfred, Celine, and Diamant fighting in their Engage forms, they'll all be worn down as new enemies replace the ones they had defeated," he cautioned, highlighting the relentless nature of the Curse Directive forces and the challenge the group faced in overcoming the ceaseless onslaught.

The battle continued to unfold with escalating intensity, testing the resilience and strategic prowess of the Elyos Heroes and their allies. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Kiran grimaced at the relentless onslaught of Curse Directive forces. Seeking a solution, he turned to Baldraz, the insightful spirit within the Breidablik.

"Hmm... Baldraz, any ideas?" Kiran muttered with a sense of urgency in his voice.

Baldraz, surveying the battlefield, spotted Etie and Chloe fighting alongside the other retainers, two valiant retainers in the chaos. Both were fiercely combating Curse Directive soldiers side by side as both retainers provided support for Alfred and Celine.

Recognizing their potential, Baldraz conveyed his suggestion to Kiran. "Retainers like Etie and Chloe have good potential to be summoned as Heroes," he observed, recognizing the strength and resilience displayed by the two retainers.

As Alfred and Celine easily fought off Curse Directive soldiers in their Engage forms, their retainers, Boucheron, Etie, Louis, and Chloe, provide support and covering fire. As he looked at the other party in the distance, Kiran looked at the Breidablik and recalled that he had summoned Alcryst's retainers, Lapis and Citrinne, as Heroes. As more Curse Directive soldiers were spawned by the black gem, Kiran knew that he mustn't hesitate for too long.

With a sense of urgency, Baldraz urged Kiran to take swift action. "You need to summon both of them as Heroes before it's too late," he advised, recognizing the need for reinforcements in the face of the unrelenting enemy forces. The fate of the battle now hinged on Kiran's ability to summon these promising allies to turn the tide in their favor.

Feeling the urgency of the situation, Kiran swiftly took charge of the battlefield. Turning to Alear, he conveyed his plan. "Hmm... Alear, Diamant, Commander Anna... We need to regroup with Alfred and Celine. I'm going to summon Etie and Chloe as Heroes," he declared, the weight of responsibility evident in his voice.

Alear's eyes widened at the realization of the task at hand. "Understood, Kiran. I'll cover your back," she affirmed, ready to defend Kiran as he focused on summoning reinforcements.

"Ha, it seems you have something in mind, Kiran!" Commander Anna declared. "I know that tactical look in your eye when I see it!"

"If it helps us win this battle, then I've got your back, Kiran!" Diamant declared as he said to his two retainers. "Amber, Jade, with me!"

"Awesome!" Amber exclaimed. "I get to see Kiran summon more people as Heroes once again!"

"It'll be a sight to see alright," Jade replied. "Maybe I can write a scene like this in one of my books?"

Together, Alear, Kiran, Commander Anna, Diamant, and his retainers took down the Curse Directive soldiers who stood in their path. As they fought side by side, their determination clear, they eventually joined Alfred, Celine, and their retainers, forming into a single group once again. Alfred and Celine expressed surprise at Kiran's unexpected move.

"Hey there!" Alfred exclaimed. "You all just came in just in time!"

"Thank you for arriving in time," Celine said. "I didn't realize we split up into two groups in the heat of battle!"

Without wasting time, Kiran explained the urgency of the situation. "Alfred and Celine, time is not on our side. I need to summon two of your retainers, Etie and Chloe, as Heroes to help increase our winning chances," he clarified, emphasizing the critical nature of the impending confrontation with the Curse Directive forces.

Alfred, acknowledging the urgency of the situation, swiftly responded to Kiran's explanation. "You have my approval. Summon Etie as a Hero," he affirmed, trusting Kiran's judgment in the critical decision.

Celine, while giving her approval for Chloe to be summoned, voiced her curiosity. "I approve, but why Etie and Chloe?" she inquired, seeking clarification from Kiran on the strategic choice.

"Well, it's because the Breidablik sensed that both of them have the potential to be summoned as Heroes," Kiran explained. "But, it's up to those two if they want to be summoned and contracted to me."

Louis, one of Celine's retainers, commented that he was surprised by Celine's reaction during battle. "I agree with Kiran, Princess Celine. We'll need every advantage to prevail in this battle," Louis replied, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Boucheron, one of Alfred's retainers, interjected with a pragmatic perspective. "Princess Celine, I also stand with what Prince Alfred said. We'll need everything we have to push through enemy lines, even if that means summoning Etie and Chloe as Heroes," he stated, recognizing the necessity of leveraging every resource available to them on the challenging battlefield.

Etie, displaying her unwavering loyalty to Prince Alfred, voiced her willingness to be summoned as a Hero. "I wouldn't mind being summoned as a Hero, as long as it helps Prince Alfred," she declared, showcasing her dedication to the prince's cause.

Chloe, on the other hand, saw the opportunity not just as a way to aid Princess Celine but also as a chance to fulfill her dreams. "Oh... Being summoned as a Hero will not only help me aid Princess Celine, but it will also make my fairy tales come true," Chloe expressed, adding a touch of personal aspiration to her commitment.

As the determination of Etie and Chloe shone through, the battlefield intensified with more Curse Directive soldiers charging at the group. In response to the escalating threat, Alear addressed Kiran with firm assurance.

"Hmm... Kiran, it seems Etie and Chloe approve of being summoned as Heroes," Alear declared, underscoring their commitment to creating a protective shield around Kiran during the summoning ritual. "In that case, we'll provide cover for you as you summon both of them."

The group prepared to stand their ground and defend against the incoming enemy forces to ensure the success of this crucial endeavor.

Amid the chaotic battlefield, Kiran, with a determined expression, aimed his Breidablik. Chanting an incantation, he invoked the power of the stars to call upon the two retainers to Alfred and Celine, the royal siblings of the Kingdom of Firene.

"Gathering stars to call upon the two retainers of Firene's Floral Protector and Joyous Royal! Become the path its light shines upon!" Kiran's words resonated with the magical energy surrounding him.

Simultaneously, the group fervently fought off every Curse Directive battalion that charged at them, showcasing their resilience against the relentless assault. Undeterred, Kiran, with unwavering focus, pulled the trigger on the Breidablik. Two streams of magic energy, imbued with the radiant power of two Golden Summon Orbs, surged forth from the divine artifact. The magical energy homed in on Etie and Chloe, enveloping them in a luminous aura as they were summoned as Heroes to join the battle.

The Golden Summon Orbs struck Etie and Chloe, unleashing a dazzling flash of light that disoriented the Curse Directive battalion. The sudden illumination caught the enemy off guard, making them easy targets for the rest of the group. Exploiting this momentary advantage, the group pressed forward, capitalizing on the confusion within the Curse Directive ranks.

As the battlefield settled into a brief respite, Kiran completed the summoning process with a triumphant chant. "Hero Summon! Be inaugurated as Heroes, Etie, the Fitness Fighter, and Chloe, the Fairy-Tale Flier!" The newly summoned Heroes, Etie and Chloe, stood ready to join the fight.

"I'm Etie, a royal knight of Firene and Prince Alfred's retainer," Etie expressed her gratitude to Kiran, acknowledging his role in her transformation into a Hero. "Thank you for summoning me as a Hero," she conveyed, displaying her appreciation for the opportunity to fight alongside the group.

"I am Chloe, a royal knight of Firene, and a retainer to Princess Celine," Chloe, with a smile on her face, expressed her delight at being summoned by Kiran. "I'm glad I was summoned by such a charming person," she remarked, adding a touch of whimsy to her gratitude.

The camaraderie between Kiran and the newly summoned Heroes set a positive tone as they prepared to face the ongoing challenges presented by the Curse Directive forces.

As Etie and Chloe were empowered as Heroes under Kiran's contract, their weapons underwent a profound transformation. What was once their Iron Bow and Javelin were transformed into powerful weapons upon being summoned as Heroes.

"Whoa!" Etie exclaimed as she held her newly transformed bow. "My bow transformed!"

"How dreamy," Chloe, holding her newly transformed Javelin, echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the change in her weapon. "My Javelin transformed as well."

Observing the transformations, Baldraz, the spirit within the Breidablik, provided Kiran with insights into the new capabilities of the weapons. "Etie's Iron Bow has transformed into the Protection Bow," Baldraz elucidated. "Protection Bow enhances Etie's offenses and defenses when she stands near an ally, providing an additional layer of protection for herself and her comrades."

Baldraz then turned his attention to Chloe's newly acquired weapon, the Dreaming Spear. "Kiran, Chloe's new weapon is called the Dreaming Spear," he disclosed. "The Dreaming Spear bestows unique effects on Chloe when she's near two other allies that are in a support-partner pair."

"Kiran, it seems you have an idea of what the new weapons of Etie and Chloe are," Commander Anna spoke as she noticed Kiran was spacing out. "Wanna explain what their new weapons are?"

"Oh yeah... Um, thanks for snapping me out of my trance, Commander Anna," Kiran replied, and then he explained to Etie and Chloe. "Etie, your new bow is called the Protection Bow, which enhances your combat potential as long as an ally is nearby. And Chloe, your new lance is called the Dreaming Spear, which grants empowers you when you're near a support-partner pair."

"Well, at least my new Bow compliments me somehow," Eite remarked as she held her Protection Bow. "I like it!"

"Dreaming Spear," Chloe said as she examined her new weapon. "It's a dreamy weapon fit for a Fairy-Tail Flier like me."

The group, now bolstered by the presence of Etie and Chloe as Heroes, pressed forward, overcoming the relentless Curse Directive battalions. As the group pressed forward, one of the Curse Directive soldiers, a Mage Flyer, flew towards them, with their tome emitting dark energies. Etie, now empowered as a Hero, quickly aimed her Protection Bow and fired an arrow, knocking down the Mage Flyer in a single shot.

"Heavy draw!" Etie declared as her arrow hit its mark on the Mage Flyer.

As the black gem began to spawn more enemy soldiers, Chloe flew upwards on her pegasus and lunged toward one of the enemy soldiers, a Sword Flyer. Sensing they were going to be attacked, the Sword Flyer turned their attention towards Chloe, but as a Hero, Chloe flew faster than the Sword Flyer and struck the enemy down with her new weapon.

"How picturesque!" Chloe declared as she took down a Curse Directive Sword Flyer with her Dreaming Spear.

As Alear, Kiran, and their allies marched on, defeating any enemy that spawned to stall them, their relentless advance led them to the source of their troubles—the ominous black gem. As the gem continued to spawn more enemies, Alear, radiant in her Engage form, turned to Kiran and voiced a proposal.

"Kiran!" Alear spoke, her voice cutting through the chaos of battle, "Alfred, Celine, Diamant, and I—all in our Engage forms—can unleash our Engage Attacks on the black gem. Do you think that will be enough to destroy it?"

Kiran met Alear's gaze and nodded in agreement. "Yes," he affirmed, "All of you should use your strongest attacks. Let's shatter that gem and put an end to this." The group, fueled by determination and a shared goal, prepared to unleash a coordinated assault, their combined power focused on the destruction of the menacing black gem.

Diamant, the resolute wielder of the Fair-Fight Blade, surged forward with unwavering determination. His Engage attack, Blazing Lion, erupted in a blaze of fire, engulfing the area around the black gem.

With a fierce declaration, Diamant exclaimed, "I will win!"

The searing flames damaged both the malevolent gem and immolated the Curse Directive soldiers it had conjured. Cracks and fractures began to appear in the black gem as the flames produced by Diamant's attack began to damage its structure.

As the black gem retaliated by spawning more enemies, Alfred, equipped with the Arcane Qiang, prepared for his assault. The radiant blue glow of his Engage attack, Override, illuminated the battlefield.

"Here I come!" Alfred declared as he channeled Emblem Sigurd's energies into his Arcane Qiang.

With a confident proclamation, Alfred charged forward, crashing through the gem and dispersing the newly spawned soldiers in his wake. The combined might of Diamant and Alfred's Engage attacks brought them one step closer to their goal of destroying the ominous black gem.

Following up on her brother's attack, Celine, with agility and purpose, swiftly closed the distance to the ominous black gem. In a display of her mastery over magic, she initiated her Engage Attack, Warp Ragnarok. The air crackled with energy as Celine vanished from her original position and reappeared right beside the black gem.

"Not about to stop here!" Celine declared as she channeled magical energy into her hands.

Then, a blazing fireball erupted from her hands, engulfing the black gem. The intense heat weakened the gem further, causing visible cracks to mar its dark surface.

Following Celine's assault, Alear, adorned in her Engage form, charged towards the black gem. Activating her Engage Attack, Lodestar Rush, she rapidly flurried seven strikes upon the gem.

"We fight together!" Alear declared as each of her strikes managed to hit their mark on the black gem.

Alear's relentless assault proved effective, causing the black gem to emit dark energies and begin to crumble. Then, the black gem began to quickly build up dark energies as the fractures on its surface began to spread.

Realizing the impending danger, Commander Anna urgently conveyed the imminent threat to Kiran. "Kiran! The black gem will explode, and its jagged pieces will fly all over the area!" she warned, her tone laced with concern.

"Damn it!" Kiran's face tightened in response as he comprehended the severity of the situation. "If the black gem were to detonate violently, its shards could potentially main or even kill everyone in the vicinity!"

Baldraz, the guiding spirit within the Breidablik, seized the moment to offer a solution. Urging Kiran to take action, he spoke with urgency, "Kiran! You must use the Breidablik to limit the explosion radius of the black gem. Hurry!"

As the black gem began to leak out more dark energies, Kiran recognized the necessity of deploying it in this critical moment to avert a catastrophe. In response to the imminent danger, Kiran swiftly took action. He aimed the Breidablik at the unstable black gem and released a focused beam of magic. The beam struck the gem, creating a protective barrier of light around it. The black gem, contained within the barrier, succumbed to its volatile energies, exploding with force.

The barrier held, containing the explosion within its confines, and the shards of the black gem began to ricochet harmlessly against the barrier's surface. As the barrier gradually faded and the remnants of the shattered gem fell to the ground, Alear, Alfred, Celine, and Diamant reverted to their normal forms.

"Kiran, is it done?" Alear asked as she approached the Summoner with a mix of concern and anticipation in her eyes. "Is the black gem destroyed?"

"Alear, it is done," Kiran replied as he met Alear's gaze and nodded reassuringly. "The black gem has been destroyed."

Relief washed over the group as the threat posed by the cursed gem was successfully averted. The remaining Curse Directive soldiers that the black gem spawned collapsed into the ground and faded away into darkness, signifying that the battle had concluded.

---

The battlefield fell into a momentary stillness as the distant clash between Alfonse, Veronica, and Shade paused. As Shade threw his daggers while Alfonse blocked most of the dagger attacks with his Fólkvangr and Veronica retaliated by casting multiple shadow bolts from her Enclosing Dark tome, the destruction of the black gem had drawn the attention of all three combatants.

"Hm... I have bought enough time for Shadow Director Ebony," Shade declared, undeterred by the turn of events as he saw the shards of the black gem falling into the ground. "The destruction of the black gem matters little in the long run."

"What do you mean?" Alfonse glared at Shade.

"It will all be revealed in due time, Prince Alfonse," Shade replied as he aimed his daggers at Alfonse and Veronica. "I shall retreat for now, but you all haven't seen the last of the Curse Directive. We shall meet again in another battlefield."

"Is that so? Then, my allies and I will look forward to it," Veronica, remaining composed, replied confidently, expressing anticipation for their future encounters.

Frustrated by the situation, Shade took decisive action. He threw a smoke bomb to the ground, the ensuing explosion serving as his cover to vanish from the area. The thick smoke obscured his retreat, leaving Alfonse, Veronica, and their allies to regroup and assess the aftermath of the intense battle.

---

The battlefield lay strewn with debris, and the air was thick with the scent of lingering magic leaking from the shards of the destroyed black gem. Alear and Kiran, their clothes battered and faces smudged with dirt, gathered their weary allies in the shadow of the Curse Directive encampment. Kiran's voice cut through the solemn aftermath.

"Is everyone all right?" Kiran inquired, his eyes scanning the faces of those assembled around him. Sharena, the Princess of Askr, stepped forward, her armor gleaming despite the scratches it bore.

"I'm okay," Sharena assured, a faint smile playing on her lips. "We held our ground."

Ivy, the crown princess of Elusia, approached Sharena, her expression a mix of relief and weariness. "We fought alongside Princess Sharena," she reported, her voice carrying the weight of the recent battle. "My retainers and I stood by her side."

Alear, standing tall despite the fatigue evident in her every movement, joined the conversation. "I'm grateful to each of you," she admitted, her gaze sweeping over the group. "We're all exhausted, but we made it through without any serious injuries. That's a victory in itself."

Veronica, her gaze fixed on the glinting shards of the shattered black gem, strode purposefully toward the fragments scattered across the ground. She bent down, slender fingers carefully picking up one of the shards, its surface reflecting the remnants of dark magic. Alfonse, watching her with a furrowed brow, couldn't contain his curiosity.

"What are you doing, Veronica?" Alfonse inquired, stepping closer. His eyes remained locked on the shard in her hand.

Veronica turned to face him, her expression unreadable. "The black gem is destroyed," she stated, her voice steady and devoid of emotion. "Its shards no longer pose any harm."

Commander Anna, standing a few paces away, chimed in with a raised eyebrow. "And what do you plan to do with that shard?" she questioned, her tone measured.

Veronica met Anna's gaze with calm resolve. "I need to study it," she explained, her grip tightening on the shard. "There might be clues within it regarding the current location of Curse Directive."

With the black gem shattered and its shards in Veronica's possession, the quest for answers continued, leading the group into uncharted territory fraught with mysteries yet to be unveiled.

Alfonse, standing amidst the remnants of the Curse Directive encampment, addressed the weary group. "In that case," he declared, his voice carrying a note of relief, "All of us should be able to return to Askr Castle."

Sharena, her armor bearing the signs of the recent battles, chimed in with a tired smile. "I'm a bit exhausted from all the fighting in the Curse Directive encampment," she admitted, her shoulders slumping slightly.

Commander Anna turned her attention to Kiran, her gaze keen. "In that case, Kiran," she suggested, "you should use the Breidablik to open a portal back to Askr."

Kiran, nodding in agreement, readied his Breidablik. "I'm glad that the battle is over," he remarked, his eyes reflecting a mix of weariness and satisfaction. With a determined expression, he pulled the trigger on the Breidablik, and a shimmering portal materialized in front of them.

"Hmm, I agree with you, Kiran," Alear replied as she stretched her arms. "I guess we should relax for the rest of the day."

As the group gathered around the glowing gateway, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. They exchanged glances, acknowledging the trials they had faced together. Without hesitation, they stepped into the portal, leaving the remnants of the Curse Directive encampment behind, and returned to the familiar halls of Askr Castle. The weight of the battles lingered, but a collective sigh of relief echoed as they embraced the respite that awaited within the castle walls.

---

The portal hummed softly as the group emerged into the familiar surroundings of Askr Castle. Alear, taking in the sights, remarked, "It's been some time since I visited Askr Castle."

Diamant, the crown prince of Brodia, glanced around with a sense of admiration. "Impressive," he commented, his eyes tracing the architecture of the castle. "Askr Castle looks just as magnificent as Brodia Castle back at Elyos."

"I just hope we don't stay here for too long," Alcryst remarked. "I-I don't do well with crowded places."

As the group exchanged observations, a gentle fluttering sound caught their attention. Peony, a ljósálfar and one of the Heroes from Alfheimr under contract with Kiran, descended gracefully, her wings shimmering in the ambient light. "I'm glad you all made it through the mission safe and sound," she greeted with a warm smile.

Commander Anna, ever alert to the happenings around, turned her attention to Peony. "Peony, what's with the gathering of the huge crowd of Heroes not far from our position?" she inquired, her gaze fixed on the bustling activity beyond.

Peony, with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, responded to Anna's question. "You see, I found the most adorable blue and white creature on the outskirts of Askr Castle, and I just couldn't resist bringing it along with me." Her voice held a hint of delight as she continued, "Then, one thing led to another, and that's why there's a crowd of Heroes surrounding it now due to how cute the creature is."

As Peony explained, Alear's eyes widened in recognition. "I know that creature," she exclaimed, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Its name is Sommie."

Peony grinned at Alear's revelation. "Sommie, huh? What a cute name for such a creature," she remarked, her gaze following Alear as she walked into the bustling crowd, undoubtedly on a mission to retrieve the blue and white friend.

The crowd of Heroes parted as Alear approached, and soon, she emerged from the midst of the gathering, cradling the small creature in her arms. Sommie, seemingly content in Alear's embrace, blinked its large, innocent eyes up at her.

Peony approached with a smile, her eyes filled with admiration. "Sommie is indeed a fitting name for such a charming creature," she said, appreciating the newfound connection between the enigmatic blue and white companion and the Heroes of Askr Castle.

As Alear returned to the group, cradling the small and adorable Sommie in her arms, Kiran took a moment to address the weary but victorious assembly.

"We should be able to relax for the rest of the day," he declared with a hint of satisfaction in his tone. "Maybe we can even eat lunch together."

Sharena, her energy rebounding, enthusiastically replied, "My stomach is practically growling after that battle in the Curse Directive encampment. I'm all in for a good meal!"

Veronica, ever composed, calmly interjected, "Hmm... I need to eat my lunch before returning to the Emblian Empire."

Alfonse nodded in agreement. "I second that. We can have lunch at the Aether Resort," he suggested, considering the prospect of a brief respite.

Alear, still cradling Sommie in her arms, added her voice to the discussion. "Let's all enjoy our well-deserved lunches together," she proposed, her eyes reflecting a mix of camaraderie and relief.

The group, having faced the trials of battle together, now looked forward to a moment of reprieve, sharing a meal in the halls of Askr Castle, where the bonds of friendship and unity were as resilient as the warriors who forged them.

---

And there you have it! This is the latest chapter of Emblems and Heroes!

To all the people who offered advice in brainstorming this story, I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

And here is a Stinger this time...

---

In the eerie silence that settled over the new Curse Directive encampment, nestled on the border between the Kingdoms of Nifl and Muspell, Shade knelt before Ebony. His voice, a low murmur, cut through the stillness.

"The distraction was mostly a success," Shade informed Ebony, his eyes meeting hers with an intensity that belied the gravity of their endeavors.

"So, it seems," Ebony, a formidable figure with narrowed eyes, questioned him, her tone sharp. "Was the black gem destroyed during the battle?"

Shade nodded with a somber acknowledgment of the outcome. "Kiran Pathfinder was the one who destroyed the black gem," he revealed, a tinge of respect in his voice for the formidable adversary.

Ebony's expression darkened as she furrowed her eyes. "I sacrificed hundreds of bandits from various worlds to create that black gem," she declared, her words echoing with a weight of both power and regret. "And it had to be Kiran Pathfinder, of all people, that destroyed it. Damn that Summoner! He and his Heroes have been a thorn at my side for far too many!"

In the shadowy realm where the Curse Directive sought to shape its destiny, the consequences of their actions were etched in the sacrifices made, and Ebony's gaze bore the burden of a leader who had gambled with lives to forge a weapon that now lay shattered in the wake of battle.

In the shadowy aftermath of the Curse Directive's setback, Shade, with a cautious yet determined demeanor, spoke to Ebony, "You should lay low for the time being."

Ebony, frustration etching her features, sighed and admitted, "You're right, Shade. It'll take some time to rebuild our Curse Directive forces."

As the encampment echoed with the lingering tension, an ominous female voice resonated through the air. "Fear not, Ebony," the voice offered, a haunting promise of aid in the face of adversity. "Perhaps I can aid you in your plight."

Ebony's eyes darted around the encampment, and she demanded, "Who are you? Show yourself!"

The shadows seemed to dance in response to her command, and gradually, a figure materialized before Ebony and Shade. A commanding presence, cloaked in darkness, revealed itself, and the entity spoke to Ebony and Shade. The female entity was clad in white and purple, with her skin resembling the night sky. Her torso vaguely resembled that of a humanoid female, but a mass of tentacles was prevalent below the torso.

"I am Ginnungagap, the Ruler of Nothingness, the destroyer of all dreams, the ruin of hope..." The entity introduced herself. "I have been awakened the moment you mortals built your encampment at this location."

"Ginnungagap," Ebony, eyeing the enigmatic figure warily, questioned. "What do you want?"

"Hmm... Despite being a mortal, you seem to have a lot of potential for nothingness," Ginnungagap, her voice carrying an otherworldly weight, remarked. "Which is why I'm offering a rare deal to you, Ebony."

The words hung in the air, laden with an ominous significance that left Ebony and Shade contemplating the mysterious alliance that fate had presented to them.

---

In the next chapter:

Emblems And Heroes

A Fire Emblem Heroes x Fire Emblem Engage Crossover

Chapter 15: A Father's Legacy

See you fellas next time!