"Is this all really necessary?" Robin asked, looking over Miriel's supplies she had packed for the convoy, "We're going for speed here."

The mage looked at the convoy wagon and then back at the tactician, "What appears to be the problem with my personal effects?"

"For one, these flasks could break. What do you even need them for?"

"Experimentation."

"Is a war march really the best place for such things?"

"You would have me pause the cause of science?"

"If we can't effectively transport it in the caravan, yes. It'll have to wait. Let's make sure we survive first."

"I suppose I could revise my packing list."

"Thank you," Robin sighed as he looked over the rest of the convoy. This was an admittedly last minute trip, but they needed to act quickly. Still, he had found pots of honey, copious amounts of lab equipment, and even a nest in the wagons. He wondered if some of the Shepherds really understood the gravity of the situation.

"Are we ready to go?" Chrom asked as Emmeryn and her guard detail joined them.

"More or less."

The prince laughed seeing Robin's expression, "Like herding cats, huh?"

"They do so well in combat, it's just…"

"They have strong personalities, I know. Only exasperated by our new recruits I imagine. You get used to it."

"I'll have to take your word for it. Is the Exalt's detail ready?"

"Yes. Frederick and Phila went over it meticulously. We'll also be taking a few key figures with us."

"Prudent. We need to keep the government functioning."

"Indeed. We'll leave shortly. After we drop Emm off, we're to head for Ferox. Ready or not, we need Flavia's aid here."

"What's our plan for once we have them?"

The bluenette groaned in response to the question, "The generals can't seem to agree on that front."

"That's not reassuring."

"No, but I'll step in if I must. Now is not the time for pointless squabbling."

"Agreed. I'll help where I can."

"Thank you. I'll keep that in mind. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to check in with Frederick."

"Alright. I've already dispersed the marching order for the Shepherds. Sumia was assigned to march with you when not scouting."

"Oh! I see…" Chrom's face went red and Robin pretended not to notice.

"Is something wrong with those arrangements?"

"N-no! Not at all. I'll, um, go get ready."

Once the prince was out of ear shot, Robin snickered to himself. He had to find some way to have fun, and he hoped it would be a kick in the rear that Chrom needed. Nothing was certain in this war. Best to go into battle with no regrets.

"Robin," Lucina approached, looking geared and ready to go, "Are you ready to depart?"

"Pretty much. I pack light all things considered. Frederick insisted we be up front so he can keep an eye on us. Hopefully you don't mind."

"It's no bother."

Robin had to admit to himself as they made their way to the front just behind Chrom that he was not bothered by this choice. It gave him more time to enjoy Lucina's company. Though he told himself it was in a completely platonic way. He was not sure if he believed himself though.

Clearing his throat, Robin settled in for the long march. At least he had pleasant company.

"I think this mountain is even steeper than the one at the border," Robin wheezed as they arrived at a fortunately flatter ridge of the mountain, "The royal family picked this place to build a second palace?"

"It is tactically hard to assault," Maribelle pointed out from atop her horse, "I would have expected you to appreciate as much."

"Well, yeah, but my legs are killing me. Guess I have to work on that endurance training a bit more."

"I hear Frederick holds fitness training in the mornings," Lucina noted, "Perhaps you could attend the sessions as well."

"I may have to at this rate." Robin pulled himself together a bit after that though to carry on the conversation, "Still, I'm impressed they managed to keep this place hidden."

"It is a closely guarded secret known only to the royal family, trusted advisors, and some of the old houses. It is a veritable citadel. Rumors are that it could last for a decade under siege."

"That's quite impressive. Though it would do little good if the nation fell around it."

"Naturally, but it is one of the safest places for the Exalt to stay."

"No doubt."

"Um, Lady Maribelle," Lucina spoke up, "I hope you don't mind my asking, but there's something I've been wondering about."

"What is it, dear?"

"That symbol on Prince Chrom's shoulder, what is it? I noticed Exalt Emmeryn had it as well. Is it some sort of royal tattoo?"

"Ah, no, not quite. That is the Brand of the Exalt. It serves as a proof of royal heritage. It is said to be a sign of a blood pact in fact."

"A pact," Robin muttered.

"What was that?" Lucina blinked.

"Oh, uh, forget about it."

They took a moment to rest once Chrom realized a few of them were struggling with the mountain pass. He felt fine though so he made his rounds through the column to see how his Shepherds were fairing.

Stahl, Sully, Frederick, and Sumia had the benefit of mounts so they were doing just fine. Virion was unusually quiet, but Chrom was not complaining. Vaike seemed to actually be enjoying himself, and much like the prince himself, Lucina seemed completely unfazed by the walking.

Gaius and Panne, the two newest members, trudged along with Panne smacking him on the back of the head. Seemed Chrom missed something there. Miriel was…managing. Much like Lissa actually. Robin was doing his best as well, but he was clearly having a hard time of the tough hike. He was skilled, but seemed to lack stamina.

"Hey, Chrom," Robin asked as the prince got near to where he and Lucina had taken refuge from the sun, "Who's that?"

The prince followed his tactician's gaze to find who he was talking about, "Ah, that's the hierophant. He helped Emmeryn in the early years of her reign. An old family friend and political ally." Chrom smiled fondly, "He's like an uncle though I admit he's closer to Emmeryn than me or Lissa. I can't imagine this march has been easy on him. Why do you ask?"

"Not sure, he's just been wandering around looking at the mountain since we stopped."

"Probably just dreading the rest of the voyage I imagine."

"Hmm, maybe."

"Do you suspect something, Robin?" Lucina asked inquisitively as he went into a thinking pose.

"Maybe it's just my imagination. Don't worry about it." Despite that, he kept an eye on the elderly man during their reprieve. Eventually, though, it was time to start moving again. As they continued on over the ridge, Robin kept noticing the suspicious behavior. Moving from the man to where he was looking, Robin scanned the horizon.

"Be back soon," Sumia told Chrom right in front of the tactician, "I'll scout the next bit of the path."

"Alright, just-"

"Stop!" Robin interrupted suddenly as Sumia's hands grabbed the reins of her pegasus to ascend.

"Robin?" Chrom raised a brow, "What's going on?"

"Wyverns. I think we just walked into an ambush."

Chrom's eyes went wide before his expression grew serious, "Phila! Take Emmeryn back down the trail and wait for the all clear."

The Wing Commander did not hesitate and did as commanded. That left the Shepherds to deal with the ambush. Robin could not determine their numbers, but they likely came prepared.

Before Robin could even address the hierophant's likely role in the ambush, the elderly man ran out to meet their would be ambushers and all but confirming Robin's suspicions.

Though, it appears they had no more need for the traitor either. While Robin did not make out what was said, it clearly did not go well for the traitor. Well, it at least tied up a loose end, but if he was being killed, he likely outlived his usefulness. The damage was probably done.

"Alright, everyone," Robin addressed the Shepherds, "Expect plenty of wyverns like at the border pass. That means magic is generally our best option. Though, Chrom's sword seemed to do pretty well."

"Falchion is said to be a dragon slayer," Chrom informed, "I guess wyverns count."

"Alright then, just be careful when facing them. They still have a mobility advantage. Sumia, stick with him. With just one pegasus knight, let's not try to challenge them in the air.

"Everyone else, let's form a wall. Phila and her knights will protect the Exalt. Focus on slow but sure gains and draw out their commander. Stay close with healers in the middle patching up as needed. Virion, Miriel, Ricken, I want you three making sure as few as possible get close and to protect us from above. I'll help out when I can."

With the plan set, the Shepherds got into position and met the threat in their defensive formation. They did manage to pick several off before they even reached their unit, and the ones that did were quickly dispatched by Chrom's Falchion or another skilled blade of the Shepherds.

They were making decent progress all things considered when they received an unexpected guest. Another pegasus knight arrived on the scene, one not part of Phila's regiment. The Wing Commander did seem to recognize her, however, she was too busy fending off any attempts on the Exalt's life to reign in the nearly frantic young woman.

"Sumia," Robin called from the huddle, "Do you think you can give her some cover? Preferably bring her back down."

"Is that…" Sumia covered her mouth, "Cordelia? I'll do it. She's a friend."

"Just stay safe," Robin nodded and the pegasus knight ascended to meet her friend in the air in time to take one of the riders aiming for her out. It seemed pretty clear that the redhead was suffering from some sort of trauma. Clearly not a good sign, but Sumia was able to coax her back down eventually.

While the healers tended to the knight, Chrom spotted the enemy commander. With one last look at the traumatized knight, he snarled and charged forward.

"Chrom!" Robin let his outstretched hand limply fall as he sighed, not that he could not understand the outburst. Still, he did not want to risk anyone else's life on cleanup. That did not mean he was leaving him to fend for himself though.

The prince charged through the enemy formation, and at first it seemed he might not need any help as he cut through what remained of the enemy's tattered forces. Robin only ended up covering him with a spell a couple of times which was good as he was still a bit winded from the hike. Fortunately, Chrom made short work of the commander.

"Are you alright?" Lucina stooped down as Robin sat on a rock.

"Yeah, I'm fine," He gulped down some water from his canteen.

"That was reckless," She sat down beside him.

"Someone had to cover him, and why risk someone else's life when my own will do?"

Lucina did not like how casually he talked about risking his life, "You could have taken help. I would gladly have fought with you."

"I know. All the more reason not to ask. I'd rather not order anyone to their deaths."

"And I don't want to lose a friend. We stand a much better chance if we watch each other's backs. You like having people fight in pairs. Let me watch your back."

"I suppose…if you promise you won't do anything reckless."

Lucina grinned, "No more so than yourself."

"That's…not reassuring, but fair enough. I guess it's nice that someone cares at least."

"A great many of us care, Robin, but…nevermind," Lucina smiled and they rested up while Chrom and Emmeryn discussed their next course of action. Cordelia's story was bad, but if it were his place, Robin would have objected to Emmeryn's plan. Though, Chrom seemed to be doing plenty of that. He could not condone giving Gangrel the hostage. One he was almost certain Chrom would give near anything to save.

With some effort, Robin did pull himself up as they prepared to march. He was still a bit sore, but at least he was distracted. He thanked Lucina for his company, but he excused himself to go meet their newcomer. The fact that Phila had left her with them did not speak to great confidence in the outcome of returning to Ylisstol.

"How are you holding up?" Robin asked as he fell in beside the pegasus knight who was leading her mount along quietly. Sumia had been keeping her company, but she was off scouting.

"Oh, hello, I am managing," She replied politely, "I'm sorry that you had to see my outburst earlier."

"No need to apologize. It…must have been hard to flee. I…well, I've read that it can be harder than fighting sometimes."

"Thank you. I don't think I got your name. I am familiar with most of the Shepherds, but you're unfamiliar."

"Ah, I didn't know you worked with them. My name is Robin. Somehow, I ended up as the tactician."

"So you're the famous Robin?"

"Er, famous?" Robin was not sure what to make of that.

"Yes, Sumia has kept me informed to some degree. We're old friends, you see."

"Aha, well, I hope she didn't embellish my abilities. I don't think I'm all that interesting."

"No, I'm sure you find someone else more fascinating."

"W-what's that supposed to mean?"

"Oh, nothing. Sumia might just have an active imagination."

"Gonna have to be careful what I say to her," Robin cleared his throat and adjusted his collar, but it did get a small laugh out of the redhead.

"Thank you. It was nice meeting you, and a nice distraction."

"Don't mention it. Glad I'm distracting at least."

"It does help me feel welcome at least. I'm not usually the best at fitting in."

"Well, you're in luck. With this group, fitting in would be standing out."

This earned him another laugh, "I'll keep that in mind. Thank you again."

"No problem."

The Shepherds did not waste time moving north. Chrom had to be reminded at least once that his troops did, in fact, need rest. All the same, Chrom rarely seemed to on the march. If he was not marching, he was probably training.

Fortunately, they did eventually arrive in Ferox. Many of them were exhausted and perhaps more were worried, but for the time being, they were safe. It gave most of them some time to rest and eat for what came next. Robin managed to get in some training to improve his endurance as well as working with Lucina to come up with strategies for the two fighting as a pair.

After their practice, the two tracked down Chrom to see how he was doing. Both were concerned, and he was clearly distracted on the way up. They found him in the now mostly empty arena where he had apparently spent the past several hours pacing around the perimeter.

Lissa and her bodyguard, Chrom was adamant after the attempt on his and Emmeryn's lives and Lon'qu despite his issues proved the most qualified, were there with Lissa looking worried sick. Sumia was also present no doubt stressed out over both her crush and now her traumatized friend as well. Poor girl was stretched thin. Fortunately, Stahl was distracting the latter with what Robin thought was a harp.

Whatever worked.

The ladies had at least managed to get Chrom to stop in place, but he was clearly not listening to anything much being said. Robin was not sure what to do here honestly. Waiting around was clearly not good for him in this state. If only they-

"Ow!" Chrom nursed his cheek, "What was that for?"

Robin blinked. Did…did Sumia just punch Chrom in the face?

The tactician looked to Lucina who seemed similarly shocked. Yes. That did just happen. Time seemed to freeze for a moment as everyone processed what just happened. It felt like ages before Sumia explained herself.

"Commander Phila used to say a good slap could knock someone out of their doldrums. I figured it was worth a shot."

Lucina's mouth gaped slightly, and Robin had to check and make sure he was not doing the same.

"Sumia, when you slap someone, you do it with an open palm. You just punched Chrom in the face!"

"Oh, um, it's the thought that counts?" Sumia looked like she could burrow into the ground never to be seen again.

"Love hurts, prince," Flavia joined them making no attempts to hide her mirth.

"Flavia!" Chrom snapped to attention, "Any word?"

"So far, Ylisstol is repelling the siege. It should hold out for now. Which is good as I'll need at least a week to finish rallying my troops."

"A week?"

"I'm sorry, I'm expediting things as it is. Our military tends to be decentralized so it takes awhile to rally. We'll be ready, Chrom, we just need the time."

"Ylisstol can withstand the siege," Robin pointed out, "For just a week, it should hold."

"I know that, but…" Chrom sighed, "Alright. Apologies, Flavia. You're doing what you can, and I appreciate it."

"Don't mention it, but, actually, we have been having some bandit problems around. We're busy rallying for war. I was wondering if your Shepherds could lend a hand."

"Of course. It's the least we can do. It is our specialty. We'll clean up what we can."

"Much obliged, Chrom. We'll be ready to go once you return. I promise you that."

"Very well. It beats twiddling my thumbs."

As they prepared to leave, Robin shot Flavia a knowing look before turning to leave himself.

A/N: The paralogues from part one are really kinda hard to fit into the story based on when they're available. The fourth one becomes available after chapter 9 I think. So, I have a partial solution for three of them. Donnel, well, I ended up pushing him even further back.

That said, is everyone still having fun? I know it isn't really that different yet. Logically, unfortunately, Lucina would seemingly have no reason to be in on all the important stuff without knowing who she is or her memories. That said, after the first part, it should hopefully start showing more changes. Though, they may not all be ripple effects of Lucina's amnesia.

Speaking of Awakening though, I'm in that part of the post game as of posting where I'm grinding out limit breakers. Fun times. Though, speaking of DLC, well, I have plans.

And how goes the Lucina hunts? I got one on my literal first try. Banner has been stingy since, but I at least got one and she's a fun unit to play with.