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...
It was already nightfall in Somniel when Alear, Kiran, and Fjorm, weary from their day in Zenith, finally reached the Grotto in Somniel, with Alear carrying Sommie with her. Alear carefully lowered Sommie to the ground beside a weathered pedestal.
"Stay close, Sommie," Alear advised with a note of sternness in her tone. "Don't wander off without my permission, okay?"
Sommie, the enigmatic creature tied to the very essence of Somniel, responded with a passive roll on the ground, its eyes fixed on Alear with a derpy smile on its face.
Observing the exchange, Kiran said, "You know, Alear, Sommie understands in its peculiar way." His words carried a sense of admiration for the mystical being.
"Hmm, I agree," Fjorm replied. "Although, I admit I'm still perplexed about what kind of creature Sommie is."
Alear, still standing beside Sommie, chuckled softly. "You might be onto something there," she conceded to Kiran. "Sommie has its way of comprehending things."
Sommie, sensing the peace of the Grotto, crawled onto the pedestal and nestled in for a well-deserved rest. Kiran turned to Alear and Fjorm, a weariness etched on his features.
"After battling the Curse Directive and trudging through Zenith all day, I'm utterly exhausted," Kiran yawned as he stretched his arms. "I think it's high time I catch some sleep. Tomorrow, we're venturing deeper into Elusia."
"Not a bad idea, Kiran," Fjorm replied. "We must prepare ourselves for tomorrow. My siblings even returned to Askr in case you need to summon them again, Kiran."
Alear, understanding the gravity of their mission, nodded in agreement. "You're right, Kiran. Tomorrow is crucial. We need to press on and retrieve King Morion's body. It won't be an easy task, but it's essential."
Kiran nodded in understanding with his expression reflecting a solemn acknowledgment of the situation. "Yeah, I'm also concerned about Diamant and Alcryst. Even as we spent the rest of the day in Askr, those two seemed quite agitated when we got back to Elyos."
Alear's demeanor turned crestfallen, and a shadow of concern lingered in her eyes. "I understand what they're going through," she murmured, her voice tinged with empathy. "Retrieving King Morion's body won't be easy for all of us."
Kiran, sharing the weight of the moment, added, "And it's not just them. Ivy, the crown princess of Elusia, will have to stay hidden here in Somniel for a while. King Hyacinth presumes Ivy is dead, and for her safety, she can't reveal herself just yet."
"Um, I admit I'm just as weary for tomorrow as you two," Fjorm added. "But, I'm sure we'll figure each of these problems out."
As the trio looked at the night sky above Somniel, the gravity of their predicament settled in the air, a silent understanding passing between Alear, Kiran, and Fjorm as they contemplated the challenges awaiting them in the unfolding chapters of their journey, especially on what tomorrow would bring.
Emblems And Heroes
A Fire Emblem Heroes x Fire Emblem Engage Crossover
Chapter 15: A Father's Legacy
A day after, they visited Zenith and fought off the Curse Directive forces, the group emerged from the luminous portal onto the snowy expanse within the Kingdom of Elusia. As the portal closed behind them, Alear, Kiran, Alfred, Diamant, and Fjorm stood amid the wintry landscape, their breath visible in the cold air.
Kiran, surveying the familiar but now eerily quiet battlefield, broke the silence. "This is it. The very ground where we clashed with both Elusian and Curse Directive forces just two days ago."
Alear, her gaze scanning the horizon, added, "The further we go into Elusia, the more intense the snowstorm becomes. It's like the land itself is resisting our presence." Her words carried a note of concern as she observed the worsening conditions.
Fjorm, seemingly unaffected by the biting cold, spoke up. "Elusia's snowstorm rivals that of the Kingdom of Nifl. It's relentless, much like the challenges we face. But we'll press on."
Alear squinted, attempting to discern the obscured landscape beneath the relentless snowfall that blanketed the skies of Elusia. Her gaze searched for any sign of Destinea Cathedral, their destination shrouded in the wintry haze. "I can't get a clear view of anything," she muttered, frustration evident in her voice.
Alfred, standing nearby, commiserated, "The snowstorm is making it impossible to get our bearings. I can't even tell which way we're heading."
Diamant, driven by urgency to retrieve his father's body, shook his head impatiently. "We can't afford to be lost in this storm. Time is of the essence." His frustration echoed in his voice as he sighed, grappling with the challenge presented by the unforgiving weather.
As Diamant sighed, his eyes caught a glimpse of movement through the swirling snow. "Hold on," he said, his tone shifting from frustration to curiosity. "Someone is approaching our group."
The figure drew closer, emerging from the white curtain of the storm, and Diamant's words hung in the air, leaving the group on edge, uncertain of the stranger's intent during Elusia's relentless snowstorm.
The figure emerged from the swirling snow, and as Alear and Kiran strained their eyes to see, a realization dawned on them. Their eyes widened as the figure drew nearer, revealing a familiar face. It was Veyle, the girl they had encountered in Flora Mill Town just a few days ago, dressed in an elegant black and white gown.
Veyle broke into a warm smile. "It's good to see both of you again," she greeted Alear and Kiran with genuine enthusiasm.
Alear, still processing the unexpected reunion, returned the greeting. "Veyle! What brings you to Elusia?"
Perplexed by the unexpected arrival of a new face, Diamant turned to Alear with a question. "Do you and Kiran know her?" he asked.
Kiran nodded in affirmation. "Yeah, Veyle is a friend. Alear and I met her back in Flora Mill Town a few days ago. What brings you to Elusia, Veyle?" he inquired, curiosity etched in his expression.
The group now faced a convergence of paths, their journey intertwined with the unexpected appearance of Veyle amid the relentless snowstorm of Elusia.
Veyle shook her head in response to Kiran's inquiry. "Hm... I have no idea why I'm here," she admitted, her expression mirroring a mix of confusion and surprise. Alear, captivated by the mystery, posed her question. "How did you end up crossing the border to another nation without knowing?"
Veyle, still grappling with the unexplained circumstances, replied, "Um... I don't know. It's as if I just woke up here." Her gaze shifted between Alear and Kiran, noting the worry etched on their faces.
Kiran, eager to solve the puzzle of their current predicament, explained, "We're trying to reach Destinea Cathedral, but the snowstorm has thrown us off course."
Veyle crossed her arms and closed her eyes as she thought of a solution to help Alear and Kiran's group. Then, Veyle opened her eyes and offered a solution.
"If Destinea Cathedral is your destination, head northeast from here," Veyle advised with her words carrying a sense of assurance amidst the uncertainty of their surroundings. "There should be a tall tree that can be used as a landmark. That should bring you closer."
As they listened to what Veyle revealed, the group found a glimmer of direction in Veyle's guidance, marking a turning point in their quest within the relentless snowstorm of Elusia.
Alear expressed her gratitude to Veyle with a warm smile. "Thank you for the help, Veyle."
Veyle's response carried a sense of indebtedness. "I owe you both for patching me up. You two are so kind," she remarked, sincerity evident in her words as she remembered the care Alear and Kiran had shown her back in Flora Mill Town.
Kiran, ever modest, waved off the appreciation. "It's not a big deal. We're always ready to help anyone in need."
As the conversation flowed, Veyle's eyes caught the glint of the Emblem Ring, the Ring of the Hero-King, adorning Alear's left hand. Intrigued, she inquired, "Have you always worn that ring, Alear?" Alear nodded, her gaze briefly shifting to the cherished piece of jewelry. "Yes, it's very important to me."
Veyle, who had just noticed the ring, couldn't help but express admiration. "I didn't notice it until now. Your ring is pretty," she remarked as her gaze was fixated on Alear's Emblem Ring.
As Veyle momentarily became lost in her thoughts, Alear, attuned to the subtle change, called out to her. "Veyle, snap out of it."
Upon hearing Alear's voice, Veyle widened her eyes as her trance was broken, and then she apologized, "Huh... Sorry, I zoned out! I need to be on my way. We'll meet again someday, Alear and Kiran!"
With that, she started to run off, leaving Alear concerned about her safety. "Veyle, wait! Elusia is dangerous. You shouldn't run off alone!"
But Veyle, determined to go her way, continued her sprint through the snowy landscape. Alear's words lingered in the air, a note of worry woven into the cold wind.
"Um... Veyle seemed to be staring blankly at Alear for some reason,' Fjorm remarked. "I wonder why?"
Alfred, watching Veyle disappear into the distance, voiced a sentiment shared by the group. "I wonder if we'll meet her again someday?"
Diamant, focused on their urgent mission, shook his head. "There's no time to search for her. We must retrieve my father's body."
With the echoes of Veyle's departure still in the air, the group pressed forward, navigating the challenges of Elusia with a sense of purpose that overshadowed the mysteries left behind in the snowy wake.
Alear's gaze lingered in the direction where Veyle had disappeared, lost in contemplation. Breaking the silence, Kiran spoke, his voice carrying a note of optimism, "We might meet Veyle again someday. We've encountered her twice already, after all."
Alear's lips curled into a small smile as she considered Kiran's words. "You're right," She agreed, finding comfort in the possibility of future encounters. "And according to Veyle, Destinea Cathedral is close."
With their destination in sight, Alear and Kiran's group pressed on through the relentless snowstorm. The icy winds howled around them, but their determination and the shared purpose of retrieving King Morion's body fueled their steps. The journey through Elusia continued, each step bringing them closer to the elusive Destinea Cathedral, and perhaps, to more unexpected encounters on the frosty path they tread.
Emerging from the forest, Alear, Kiran, and their allies were met with the sight of a chapel perched on a foothill. The chapel was still a couple of miles away from their position, but it was visible, even through the snowstorm.
Alear, squinting against the icy winds, remarked, "I believe that building on the foothill is Destinea Cathedral."
Kiran, following Alear's gaze, pondered aloud, "Could that be the Destinea Cathedral?"
In response to Kiran's inquiry, Emblem Marth materialized from Alear's Emblem Ring, a source of guidance and knowledge. With a regal air, he confirmed, "Indeed, that building is Destinea Cathedral."
His voice, resonating with authority, carried a sense of certainty, settling any doubts that lingered. The group, now with a clear view of their destination, approached the chapel on the foothill, the culmination of their journey through Elusia drawing near.
As Destinea Cathedral loomed before them, Emblem Marth addressed Alear and Kiran with a sense of purpose. "Desinea Cathedral can be seen from the distance. Are you two ready?" he inquired.
"I am," Alear replied resolutely. "What about you, Kiran?"
"Alear, I'm ready when you are," Kiran replied as his grip on the Breidabik tightened.
"Hmm... Kiran, have your Breidablik ready," Alear said to Kiran as she saw him gripping the Breidablik tightly. "We might need our allies and additional Heroes in there."
Kiran nodded, his grip tightening on the Breidablik at his side. "I'll call our allies and summon additional Heroes as needed," he assured, understanding the weight of the potential challenges awaiting them inside Destinea Cathedral.
Diamant, a mix of determination and concern etched on his face, sighed audibly as the group crossed the threshold into the cathedral. "I hope we can retrieve my father's body intact," he murmured, the gravity of their mission settling heavily upon them.
The echoes of his words hung in the air, a solemn reminder of the stakes they needed to face as their group walked ever closer to the Destinea Cathedral.
Within the hallowed halls of Destinea Cathedral, Hortensia's gaze was drawn to one of the cathedral's windows, her contemplative expression accentuated by the flickering candlelight.
"The snowstorm outside intensified all of a sudden," Hortensia observed, her voice carrying a note of concern.
Rosaldo, a refined Wyvern Knight and one of Hortensia's retainers, gracefully approached her. "The cathedral tends to get hit by snowstorms more than anywhere else in Elusia," he remarked, a touch of sympathy in his voice.
Worry etched across her features, Hortensia crossed her arms as if seeking comfort from the chill that seemed to seep into the very stones of the cathedral. "My sister Ivy is rather late," she admitted with a hint of anxiety in her tone.
Hortensia's thoughts took a darker turn as she voiced her concerns. "Maybe something went awry at the battle in Brodia Castle. Perhaps Ivy didn't survive." The weight of uncertainty hung in the air, casting a shadow over the sacred space as the snowstorm raged outside, echoing the tumult within Hortensia's heart.
Rosaldo, always the epitome of flamboyance, performed a grandiose gesture and offered reassurance to Hortensia. "Princess Ivy is still out there, and I'm certain she can handle herself," he declared with confidence, his voice carrying a comforting tone.
Touched by Rosaldo's support, Hortensia couldn't help but smile as a sense of calm settled over her. "Thank you, Rosaldo. Your words mean a lot," she expressed her gratitude, appreciating the flamboyant Wyvern Knight's ability to lift her spirits.
As the moment of solace lingered, Hortensia's demeanor shifted, and she sighed. "Ever since Lord Sombron was released, my father has been acting weird—especially since that group of people came into the picture."
Intrigued, Rosaldo inquired, "Is that the same group of people who showed up in Elusia Castle with Lord Sombron?" The mention of the mysterious group added a layer of complexity to the unfolding events, and the cathedral's solemn atmosphere became charged with a sense of unease.
Hortensia nodded in confirmation of Rosaldo's question, her eyes reflecting a mixture of concern and uncertainty. "Yes, it's the same group. There are five of them, comprised of a young girl in a hood leading the way, followed by four others."
Rosaldo, intrigued by the revelation, questioned, "Why would your father keep such a group around?"
Hortensia, her mind contemplating the complexities of her father's actions, speculated, "I think he kept them because they brought Emblem Rings with them."
Recalling the moment when the group had presented their Emblem Rings to her father, Hortensia's expression shifted. "When I saw them, I thought if I could do the same, I could regain my father's favor. But it didn't go as planned," she admitted, a tinge of regret evident in her voice. The intricacies of relationships and power dynamics within the cathedral added a layer of intrigue, and the weight of her unfulfilled intentions lingered in the air.
Rosaldo's gaze fell to the ground as he processed the information. "You're referring to the battle at the Grand Crossing," he deduced with a somber note in his voice.
Hortensia nodded with a mixture of remorse and acknowledgment on her face. "Yes, that battle was my fault. I underestimated Alear and Kiran Pathfinder," she admitted with her words carrying the weight of responsibility.
Rosaldo, recalling the events at the Grand Crossing, replied, "I witnessed what Kiran did during that battle, summoning those Heroes. Quite impressive, I should say." His acknowledgment hinted at the formidable power Kiran and the summoned Heroes wielded.
Hortensia, however, remained in the dark about her father's current plans. "Aside from that, I don't have any clue as to what my father is up to right now," she confessed.
Intrigued, Rosaldo inquired, "How so?"
The air within Destinea Cathedral became charged with uncertainty as the mysteries surrounding Lord Sombron's actions and the enigmatic group unfolded, leaving both Hortensia and Rosaldo to navigate the intricate web of events.
"I don't know why my father wants the Emblem Rings or what the ritual being conducted here at Destinea Cathedral is all about," Hortensia confessed, her uncertainty casting a shadow over her words.
Rosaldo, noting her lack of information, remarked, "Hortensia, you're being left out in the dark."
Just as the weight of the conversation settled, Goldmary, another of Hortensia's retainers, entered the room. She presented an Emblem Ring to Hortensia with a sense of urgency. "King Hyacinth has asked you to join him at the altar," Goldmary informed, the gravity of the summons evident in her voice.
The sudden turn of events added a layer of urgency and mystery to the atmosphere within the cathedral, leaving Hortensia and her companions to navigate the unfolding situation.
Hortensia examined the Emblem Ring in her right hand, the metallic gleam reflecting in her eyes. Rosaldo, always quick to comment, offered a compliment, "Ooh! Seems you obtained another Emblem Ring from your father, Hortensia!"
Goldmary, practical and to the point, urged Hortensia to prepare for what lay ahead. "Please wear the Emblem Ring and be ready for battle," she advised.
Following Goldmary's suggestion, Hortensia slid the Emblem Ring onto her finger, a determined expression on her face. "This means the Divine Dragon and Kiran are coming," she noted. Her voice held a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. "Maybe I'll finally get some answers about what happened at Brodia Castle."
The air in Destinea Cathedral crackled with tension as preparations for an imminent encounter took place, each Emblem Ring symbolized power and mystery in the unfolding narrative.
Back in the World of Zenith, in one of the vacant rooms of Askr Castle, Veronica, Embla's Princess Rising, sat in contemplation, inspecting one of the black shards salvaged from the destroyed black gem. The air in the room held a weight of uncertainty and curiosity. Alfonse and Sharena entered, the door creaking softly behind them.
Sharena, with her characteristic enthusiasm, greeted Veronica, "Hi, Veronica! Have you found anything about the black shards?"
"Alfonse and Sharena..." Veronica, stoic and focused on her examination, met Sharena's inquiry with a solemn response. "Hmm... I will tell you what I found out, but I think neither of you will like the answer," she warned, her words laden with a sense of foreboding.
Alfonse, recognizing the gravity of the situation, spoke up, "We all need to know what the answer is, regardless of the implications." The room's atmosphere tightened as the trio prepared to confront the revelations held within the enigmatic black shards and the potential consequences they might unveil for the Kingdom of Askr and the Emblian Empire.
Veronica, having gleaned unsettling knowledge from her analysis of the black shards, addressed Alfonse and Sharena. "From what I could analyze, the black jewels were once ordinary gemstones. The Curse Directive bound countless mortal souls from various worlds into these gemstones, corrupting them," she revealed, her tone carrying the weight of a disturbing truth.
Alfonse and Sharena, their eyes widening in shock, absorbed the gravity of Veronica's revelation. Sharena, expressing her dismay, remarked, "The cruelty that the Curse Directive is willing to delve into is unfathomable."
Alfonse, his mind processing the implications, assumed a grim realization. "I know. Curse Directive has killed countless people just to create these black gems. It's unacceptable," he concluded, the harsh truth hanging heavily in the air.
The room, which was once filled with curiosity, now resonated with the somber acknowledgment of the depths of darkness that the Curse Directive was willing to plunge into for its sinister objectives.
Veronica, providing her insights to Alfonse and Sharena, theorized about the Curse Directive's reliance on black jewels. "Ever since the previous director, my 'Sissy,' Letizia, died, they weren't as numerous as they were in the past," she surmised, her words hinting at a strategic shift in the Curse Directive's tactics.
"I can still remember the day when Letizia took her own life in front of us," Alfonse, affected by the memories of that fateful day, admitted to Veronica. "A twisted desire to be the one to kill you alone."
Veronica, stoically acknowledging the painful memory shared between them, spoke gently to Alfonse, "I remember that day as vividly as you do, Alfonse."
Both Alfonse and Veronica vividly remember the very moment when Letizia showed her way of defying Embla - by taking her own life in front of them.
"Veronica... I will not allow...someone else the privilege of killing you. I cannot..."
To Alfonse, Veronica's words held a solemn comfort, a recognition of the shared burdens carried by those who witnessed the tragic events orchestrated by the Curse Directive. The room held a melancholy air as the trio grappled with the echoes of the past and the implications of the Curse Directive's desperate measures.
Sharena, with her characteristic optimism, attempted to shift the heavy atmosphere in the room. "Maybe we can get some help from the Order of Heroes. We have members well-versed in curses and dark magic," she suggested, her cheerful demeanor contrasting the somber revelations.
Veronica, considering the suggestion, responded, "You have a point, Sharena. It would be interesting to have the black shards examined by individuals from different worlds."
Drawing on his knowledge of the diverse array of Heroes, Alfonse said, "We have Heroes from Elibe and Ylisse, like Canas and Tharja, who dabble in dark magic. They might be able to examine the black shards and offer their perspectives."
"I agree," Veronica, nodding in agreement, concluded, "Let's allow those Heroes to examine the black shards."
The room, which was once shrouded in the weight of dark revelations, now held a glimmer of hope as the trio considered the potential assistance from Heroes with expertise in dealing with curses and dark magic within the Order of Heroes.
Just outside the Destinea Cathedral, Alear, Kiran, Fjorm, Alfred, and Diamant gazed up at the imposing cathedral as they readied themselves. As Kiran surveyed the building, the aesthetics of Destinea Cathedral reminded him of various cathedrals that he had seen back in his original world.
"Hmm..." Alear, taking in the grandeur of the cathedral, muttered. "Destinea Cathedral sure looks imposing."
Kiran, reflecting on Veyle's guidance, replied, "Veyle's directions did help us after all. We made it here."
"I understand," Alear acknowledged. "In that case, it's time to call the rest of our allies back at Somniel, Kiran."
"I concur," Kiran replied as he readied his Breidablik. "It'll just take a moment."
Kiran gripped his Breidablik tightly, focusing his energy on opening a portal to Somniel. With a surge of power, a shimmering gateway materialized before them. And out of that gateway, Alcryst, and Celine exited the gateway. As the gateway was about to close, the retainers of Alfred, Celine, Diamant, and Alcryst all came out of the gateway.
"Hmm... Celine, Alcryst, and most of the retainers," Alear asked. "Is that everyone?"
"Y-yeah, we did sense that Kiran was calling us," Alcryst replied. "T-That's why we're here now."
"I see," Alear replied. "And what about Princess Ivy?"
"She's recuperating back in Somniel," Celine answered. "Yesterday's battle against the Curse Directive did tire her out."
"It may be for the best that Ivy has to remain back at Somniel for the time being," Alear replied. "After all, it's likely that her father assumes her dead."
As the group prepared to enter the cathedral, Emblem Marth materialized from Alear's Emblem Ring. His regal presence added a sense of gravity to the moment.
"I sense the presence of Fell Dragon Sombron within the cathedral. He's waiting for us to go inside," Emblem Marth informed them, his words echoing with the weight of the imminent confrontation with an ancient and formidable foe.
The group exchanged glances, the cathedral looming before them as a silent testament to the challenges awaiting within its halls.
Emblem Marth, a voice of caution, issued a warning to Alear and Kiran. "Our group isn't ready to fight Fell Dragon Sombron," he cautioned, his words carrying the weight of experience and foresight.
"Emblem Marth has a point," Kiran responded as he acknowledged the concern. "But, our goal was never to fight Sombron. It's to retrieve King Morion's body and then retreat."
Diamant, resolute in his quest to retrieve his father's body, added his agreement. "I agree with Kiran. Retrieving my father's body is our priority."
Emblem Marth, conceding to the group's decision, advised, "Alright, but once we retrieve King Morion's body, we must avoid a confrontation with Fell Dragon Sombron."
The strategic shift in their approach added a layer of tension to the mission, as the group prepared to navigate the delicate balance between achieving their goal and evading the formidable presence of Fell Dragon Sombron within Destinea Cathedral.
Alear, considering the precarious situation, addressed Emblem Marth, "Even with the Emblem Rings in our possession and Kiran's ability to summon additional Heroes, we're at a disadvantage due to Elusia being enemy territory."
Kiran, displaying a steadfast resolve, responded, "No plan survives first contact. We'll adapt and overcome whatever hurdles come our way."
"I'm sure we'll pull through this once and many more," Alfred offered encouragement.
Fjorm, the Princess of Nifl, interjected with a note of admiration, "Well said, you two. Your choice of words reflects the determination we need in times like these."
Her compliment resonated within the group, a testament to the camaraderie and shared purpose that bound them together as they prepared to face the challenges within Destinea Cathedral. The weight of their words hung in the air, a rallying cry for unity and resilience in the face of an uncertain and dangerous journey.
Emblem Marth shifted his attention toward Kiran, revealing a piece of his past. "During the first time, Alear and I visited Zenith, I was observing you, even though I couldn't manifest myself there at the time," he disclosed, his words carrying a sense of history and connection.
Kiran, absorbing the revelation, nodded in understanding. "That does make some sense. It seems Emblems can observe events within their Emblem Rings," he remarked, acknowledging the intricacies of their shared experiences.
Emblem Marth, with a solemn tone, spoke directly to Kiran, "You must make a promise, Kiran Pathfinder. In case something happens to me and the other Emblems, you will be the one to help Alear in my stead."
Kiran, recognizing the gravity of the request, replied with unwavering determination, "I promise, Emblem Marth. If the need arises, I'll be there for Alear."
"Thank you, Kiran," Alear replied as she addressed everyone in the group. "Now, is everyone ready? It's time for us to stop the ritual and bring King Morion's body home."
As the group readied their weapons, Alear and Kiran stared at the entrance of the Destinea Cathedral, ready to face of any unforeseen challenges within the perilous journey they were about to undertake.
Within the eerie confines of Destinea Cathedral, Alear, and Kiran along with the rest of their group found themselves face to face with King Hyacinth and Hortensia and her two retainers, Rosaldor and Goldmary. The air in the cathedral held a tense stillness as the two parties met.
"Ah, you must be the loathsome Divine One... and Kiran Pathfinder, the Summoner whom I've been hearing about," King Hyacinth, his tone dripping with sarcasm, addressed Alear and Kiran, "I bid you all welcome to Destinea Cathedral."
"Hm..." Alear, sensing an underlying threat, spoke quietly to Kiran, "I have a bad feeling about this, Kiran."
"I agree with you, Alear," Kiran muttered in agreement, sharing her concern. "I don't like the way Hyacinth looks at both of us..."
As the uneasy exchange continued, Alear and Kiran cast accusing glares at King Hyacinth. He, unfazed by their scrutiny, assumed a cynical demeanor and remarked, "I assume my daughter, Ivy, was defeated in battle, as expected. Since your group didn't take her captive, I assume that her body was left for the birds."
The cathedral's atmosphere became tense, setting the stage for a confrontation within the hallowed halls as Hortensia gazed at Alear and Kiran the moment Hyacinth spoke those words.
"You mean my sister... is dead?!" Hortensia uttered as she glared at Alear and Kiran.
Before Alear and Kiran could reply to Hortensia, Diamant scowled at King Hyacinth, demanding, "Where is my Father's body?"
Hyacinth, unfazed by Diamant's demands, smirked and cryptically replied. "All will be known in due time."
Alear, losing patience, glared at Hyacinth, demanding. "Stop stalling and tell us... Now!"
Amidst the charged atmosphere, Alfred, keenly observant, noticed a familiar figure a few feet away from Hyacinth and Hortensia. He exclaimed, "There's someone by the altar."
Alcryst, catching sight of the figure, couldn't contain his emotions and exclaimed to Diamant, "T-that figure... Diamant, look! That's Father!"
The revelation added a layer of urgency and anticipation, as the group confronted King Hyacinth, demanding answers about the whereabouts of King Morion's body within the darkened halls of Destinea Cathedral.
The group was met with disbelief when witnessing the ghastly sight of Diamant and Alcryst's father, Morion, swaying unnaturally. The moment Alear, Kiran, and their group saw King Morion's eyes glowing unnaturally red, they both knew exactly what happened to King Morion after he fell in battle.
Diamant, shaken by the apparent contradiction, uttered. "This can't be. I saw my father die in battle with my very eyes."
As Morion turned around, emitting inhuman growls and with his eyes glowing an ominous red, the reality of the situation became horrifyingly apparent.
"No..." Celine muttered as she covered her hands. "It can't be..."
"By the gods," Kiran grimaced. "Hyacinth... What have you done?!"
Alear, grimacing at the grotesque transformation, confirmed. "King Morion is indeed dead. His body was raised as a Corrupted soldier."
Reveling in the group's shock, Hyacinth chuckled darkly and admitted, "I have indeed killed King Morion in battle and raised him back as a loyal Corrupted. As you can see, you were too late. The ritual has been carried out."
The revelation cast a somber shadow over the group, as the true extent of the tragedy unfolded within the profane confines of Destinea Cathedral.
Fury ignited within Diamant as Hyacinth callously admitted to desecrating King Morion's body. Diamant, mustering the strongest glare he could, confronted Hyacinth.
"Hyacinth... You bastard!" Diamant exclaimed. "How dare you desecrate my Father's body!"
Emblem Marth materialized from Alear's Emblem Ring, his regal presence commanding attention. He advised Alear and Kiran, "Now that we know what happened to King Morion, we must retreat from the cathedral at once."
"I... I refuse!" Alcryst, fueled by determination, responded to Emblem Marth. "Neither Diamant nor I would leave our father behind."
Diamant, fueled by grief and resolve, declared, "We have to fight Hyacinth and put our father to rest."
The air in the cathedral crackled with tension as the group faced the grim reality of their situation, torn between the need to retreat and the overwhelming desire to confront the source of their anguish within the sacred halls of Destinea Cathedral.
"Diamant and Alcryst..." Hyacinth, reveling in his machinations, remarked, "It seems Morion's children are indeed foolish enough to stay."
With a snap of his fingers, the chapel doors were magically sealed shut behind Alear, Kiran, and the rest of the group. The ominous sound of marching echoed within the cathedral as battalions of Elusian and Corrupted soldiers filled the unholy space.
Emblem Marth, recognizing the peril they were now trapped in, remarked. "The trap has been sprung."
Hyacinth, his laughter echoing ominously, declared with a sinister satisfaction, "This grand cathedral will be your graves. You brought your Emblem Rings and Kiran Pathfinder here, after all. Lord Sombron will be most pleased to have the Emblem Rings and Kiran Pathfinder in our possession!"
The realization of their dire predicament settled upon the group, a sense of foreboding permeating the air within the hallowed halls of Destinea Cathedral.
Amidst the tension within Destinea Cathedral, Kiran, a beacon of defiance, fired a shot from his Breidablik, reverberating through the sacred space and capturing everyone's attention.
"Kiran Pathfinder!" Hyacinth exclaimed as he glared at Kiran, irritated by the interruption. "You would dare interrupt, even in the face of your certain capture?!"
"King Hyacinth, what I did was..." Kiran shook his head and retorted. "I'm expressing my disapproval of your dialogue."
Surveying the Elusian and Corrupted soldiers surrounding them, Kiran continued, "And you claim that we're trapped, but are you sure that's the case?"
The rhetorical question lingered in the air, challenging the perception of their predicament and setting the stage for a potential reversal within the intricate web of schemes and traps set within the grand cathedral.
"How... How dare you!" Hyacinth replied, incensed by Kiran's audacity. "How dare you to speak to me in such a manner!"
Kiran, undeterred by the outburst, glanced at Diamant and Alcryst, his resolve unwavering.
"For Diamant and Alcryst's sake," Kiran declared at Hyacinth. "We will defy you and put Morion to rest."
"Hyacinth..." Alcryst said as contempt filled him as he readied his Arcane Darkbow. "You're a monster after what you did to Father."
"Hyacinth!" Diamant declared, seething with anger as he readied his Fair-Fight Blade. "You're going to pay for your actions here and now!"
"If you want a fight, Hyacinth..." Alear, sensing the gravity of the situation, readied her Libération sword and declared with determination. "You'll get one!"
The cathedral, once a place of solemnity, now echoed with the tension of an impending confrontation, as the group prepared to defy the traps set by Hyacinth and confront the monstrous desecration of their father's body.
Kiran's sharp gaze lingered on Hyacinth and Hortensia, and a keen observation revealed that both of them were adorned with Emblem Rings. The spirit within the Breidablik, Baldraz, communicated with Kiran, revealing his insights.
'Kiran, I can sense familiar energies coming from those corrupted Emblem Rings,' Baldraz conveyed. 'I can sense Elibe energies coming from Hyacinth's Emblem Ring while Fodlan energies are emanating from Hortensia's Emblem Ring.'
The revelation sparked recognition in Kiran's eyes, and his grip on the Breidablik tightened as he steeled himself. Even though Baldraz was not certain what Emblems resided in Hyacinth and Hortensia's Emblem Rings, Kiran had an inkling of what Heroes he needed to summon.
'Baldraz, thank you for that insight,' Kiran thought. 'Now, I have an idea of what Heroes I can summon for this battle.'
A plan began to form in Kiran's mind, utilizing the diverse energies from different worlds to summon Heroes strategically for the impending confrontation within the grand halls of Destinea Cathedral.
Hyacinth, his eyes filled with malice, issued a commanding decree to the Elusian and Corrupted soldiers. The aforementioned soldiers readied their weapons and Alear, Kiran, and the rest of their group readied their weapons in response.
"Kill the Divine One and her allies! Retrieve their Emblem Rings!" Hyacinth declared. "And capture Kiran Pathfinder at all costs!"
The soldiers, driven by Hyacinth's orders, charged relentlessly at the group. Everyone in the group, from Alear, Alfred, Celine, Diamant, and Alcryst to their retainers fought off droves of Elusian and Corrupted soldiers. Still, more enemies began to arrive in Destinea Cathedral to replace their defeated counterparts.
Alear, quick to strategize in the face of danger, spoke urgently to Kiran. "Kiran! Hurry and summon additional Heroes!" she directed as she took down one of the Corrupted with her Libération. "We'll handle these soldiers!"
The group's resolve strengthened as they prepared to fend off the approaching onslaught. One of the enemy soldiers, an Elusian Mage Infary, conjured a fireball from their Elfire Tome aimed at Fjorm. Then, an icy barrier formed around Fjorm, which intercepted the fireball, nullifying it. This was Fjorm's signature ability, Ice Mirror. As the Ice Mirror shattered, Fjorm wasted no time and leaped at the Elusian Mage, striking them down with her Leiptr.
"Leiptr!" Fjorm declared as she struck down the Elusian Mage with her eponymous lance. "Lance of Ice!"
Fjorm, brandishing her lance Leiptr, stood ready as she regrouped with Kiran. "We'll buy enough time for you to summon," she assured Kiran, reinforcing their determination to withstand the onslaught of Elusian and Corrupted soldiers and secure the safety of their mission.
As the battle raged on, Alear, Fjorm, and their valiant allies engaged in fierce combat against the relentless Elusian and Corrupted forces. Meanwhile, Kiran, positioned strategically, summoned the power of the Breidablik. Eleven orbs emerged from the mystical relic—six red, four green, and one blue. The orbs ascended gracefully toward the cathedral's ceiling.
With a determined voice, Kiran chanted, "Gathering stars to call upon certain Heroes from Elibe, Fodlan, and Zenith! Heed my call and become the path its light shines upon!" The cathedral fell into an anticipatory hush as all eyes focused on the seven orbs suspended in mid-air. The orbs began to radiate a brilliant white light, casting a glow that held the promise of reinforcements from different worlds.
As the brilliant light of the summoning faded away, Kiran's voice echoed in the cathedral. "Hero Summon! I call forth Male and Female Byleth, Male and Female Shez, Lyn, Hector, Eliwood, Alfonse, Sharena, Commander Anna, and Fallen Gustav into the battlefield!"
The eleven orbs, now transformed into mystical portals, shimmered with otherworldly energy. From these portals emerged ten Heroes, ready for battle. Seven stood firm as infantry, one donned the heavy armor of an armored unit, and two, mounted on swift steeds, represented the cavalry.
"I'm Byleth, the Tested Professor," Male Byleth declared, readying his Creator Sword. "I used to be a mercenary, but now I'm a professor. I will help your cause however I can."
"My name is Byleth, the... Proven Professor," Female Byleth hesitated for a bit upon introducing herself. "Formerly a mercenary, but now a professor. I'll help your cause however I can."
"I'm Shez, Rising Mercenary," Male Shez declared as he readied his Crimson Blades. "Now that you've summoned me, Kiran, I'll do the task I'm summoned for. So, who are we fighting?"
"I'm also Shez, Keen Mercenary, similar to my counterpart," Female Shez introduced herself as she readied her Crimson War-Axe. "Kiran, since you've called upon me, I'll win no matter who I'm up against."
"I'm Lyndis, Lady of the Plains... Just call me Lyn," Lyn declared as she readied her Sol Katti. "Since you summoned me, I'm glad I'm here to help."
"My name is Eliwood, Knight of Lycia," Eliwood introduced himself with Durandal in his right hand as he steadied his horse. "Since you called me here to battle, I hope I'll be of use to you."
"Oho! I'm Hector, General of Ostia," Hector bombastically declared. "Armads and I both are in your service!"
"I am Gustav. Once I was king, but no more," Fallen Gustav declared as he reared up his horse. "I am but a rotting husk, but I shall wield my weapon in service to Kiran Pathfinder and to the Kingdom of Askr once more."
"Kiran! We all answered your summons as fast as we could!" Commander Anna answered as she readied her Nóatún. "We'll back you and Alear up for this battle!"
"Don't worry, Kiran! We just finished with our duties when you called me, Alfonse, and Commander Anna here!" Sharena declared as she swung her Fensalir. "I'm here now, and I'll defend you with everything I have!"
"The three of us have heard your summons, and we've arrived to fight alongside you," Alfonse acknowledged as he readied his Fólkvangr. "I'll make sure no harm befalls upon you, Kiran!"
Upon Kiran summoning his Heroes, Hyacinth and Hortensia could only look in disbelief as the summoned Heroes glared at them. In the case of Hortensia, she looked at her Emblem Ring, the Ring of the Instructor, and stared at Male Byleth. It was then that she silently realized that Kiran had summoned the real versions of the Emblems in Destinea Cathedral.
"Kiran Pathfinder..." Hyacinth gritted his teeth. "You dare make a mockery of me and Lord Sombron with all of your paltry Heroes?!"
"Hyacinth..." Alear declared as she pointed her Libération at him. "You dare claim that when you and Sombron not only desecrate King Morion but also corrupt Emblem Rings to suit your purposes?!"
"Neither you nor Sombron can see what both your atrocities have done to people around you," Kiran declared as he pointed out Hyacinth's hypocrisy. "Let's see if your declaration for this cathedral to be our graves has any merit, King Hyacinth."
With weapons drawn, the newly summoned Heroes radiated determination to defend Kiran against the impending threat of Hyacinth and his Elusian and Corrupted forces. The stage was set for a clash of powers within the grand halls of Destinea Cathedral.
Within the grand halls of Destinea Cathedral, the clash intensified as Elusian and Corrupted soldiers relentlessly attacked Alear and Kiran's group. Side by side, Alear and Kiran fought back, skillfully taking down one enemy soldier after another.
As the battle unfolded, Kiran noticed Hyacinth strategically retreating further into the cathedral. As Hyacinth and some of his soldiers retreated, the Corrupted form of King Morion and several Corrupted soldiers took Hyacinth's place as the door closed behind them.
"There goes King Hyacinth," With a wry observation, Kiran remarked as he saw Hyacinth retreating. "Schemers like him tend to hide in the backlines while his army does most of the fighting."
"I agree," Alear replied as she shared Kiran's sentiment. "To reach Hyacinth, we not only have to deal with Hortensia and her retainers, but we also need to confront the Corrupted form of the late King Morion."
"Dealing with both Hortensia and King Morion will be daunting tasks indeed," Kiran acknowledged, understanding that the road to Hyacinth would be paved with formidable adversaries.
Then, Alear and Kiran saw Diamant, Alcryst, and their retainers charged forth to confront Morion, taking down any Elusian and Corrupted soldiers that stood in their path. From what Kiran could see on the brothers' faces, he knew that Diamant and Alcryst needed help to mercifully kill their father.
The air in the war room hung heavy with tension as Sharena, her blue eyes reflecting determination, turned her attention to Kiran after taking down one Elusian Sword Fighter. "Kiran, what's your plan for the battle ahead?" she inquired, her voice echoing through the room.
Kiran, standing tall with a stoic expression, took a moment before responding. "First of all," he began, his gaze steady, "We need to help Diamant and Alcryst put down their father, Morion. He's been corrupted, and it's tearing them apart."
Alfonse, the ever-calculating strategist, nodded in agreement. "I agree with Kiran. Taking care of Morion is our priority."
"Yeah, that's a tactic that I approve of," Commander Anna remarked. "This reminds me of the time we had to take down Gustav himself, who was raised back to unlife by Hel back then."
Fallen Gustav, the sturdy and weathered former king, furrowed his brow and directed a question at Kiran. "I remember that time... Is that the reason why you summoned me alongside my son and daughter for this battle?" he asked, his deep voice resonating in the room.
Kiran met Fallen Gustav's gaze, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "Yes, that was the intention. Morion poses a significant threat, and we need all the help we can get."
Fallen Gustav leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "And what comes after we deal with Morion?"
Kiran's expression darkened slightly. "Hortensia and her retainers. They've aligned themselves with the Corrupted forces. We need to somehow convince Hortensia and her retainers to stand down. It won't be an easy battle, but it's one we can't avoid."
Alfonse tightened his grip on his weapon, a stubborn look on his face. "We'll handle it. One step at a time, starting with Morion."
The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of their impending challenges settling on each group member. They knew the road ahead would be perilous, but with a plan in place, they were ready to face whatever darkness awaited them.
Alear and Kiran, amidst the chaotic battlefield, found themselves flanked by the male and female versions of Byleth and Shez, the aftermath of their combined effort evident in the fallen enemy soldiers around them.
Female Byleth, her expression determined, took the initiative to speak, addressing Alear and Kiran, "We can assist in the fight against Hortensia. We've got her covered."
"I agree," Beside him, Male Byleth replied as he nodded in agreement, her gaze focused and unwavering. "I felt something familiar with Princess Hortensia."
Male Shez, with a sly grin, chimed in, "And we'll handle Hortensia's retainers. No one stands a chance against both versions of Shez."
His female counterpart, standing tall and ready for action, gave a confident nod, reinforcing their shared commitment to the cause.
Amidst the exchange, Celine, her movements swift and precise, dispatched an Elusian soldier alongside her retainers, Louis and Chloe, before turning to join the conversation.
"Watch out, more enemy reinforcements are incoming," Celine warned, her voice urgent. "Corrupted forces are even emerging from the ground as we speak."
Alfred, her steadfast brother, stepped forward, determination etched on his face alongside his retainers, Boucheron and Etie. "I'll stick with Celine. We'll hold off the Elusian and Corrupted reinforcements entering the cathedral."
The air buzzed with tension and anticipation as the group dispersed to tackle their assigned tasks. The impending clash with Hortensia and her forces loomed large, but with each member focused on their role, they were determined to face the challenges head-on.
Eliwood, clad in his shining armor, raised the legendary sword Durandal skyward, catching the glint of sunlight on its gleaming blade.
Then, Eliwood turned to Kiran, his eyes glanced at Alfred and Celine, and declared, "Kiran, Lyn, Hector, and I will stand guard with these two against the enemy reinforcements. We won't let them breach the cathedral."
Kiran, the tactician, nodded in acknowledgment. "I'll call upon you three when the time is right. Stay vigilant."
As Kiran led the charge with the rest of the group to engage the oncoming waves of enemy soldiers, Lyn drew her iconic sword, Sol Katti, with a swift, practiced motion. She observed the eerie movements of the Corrupted with a furrowed brow.
"Hm... These Corrupted soldiers move strangely," Lyn remarked, her voice carrying a hint of unease. "Reminds me of the Morphs back in Elibe. It's unnerving."
Hector, the towering warrior, hefted his colossal axe, Armads, onto his shoulder with a confident grin. "Corrupted, Morphs, it doesn't matter to me," he declared. "My Armads is always ready for a good fight. Let them come."
The battlefield was a chaotic symphony of clashing steel and magical bursts as Alfonse, Sharena, Commander Anna, and Fallen Gustav, alongside Diamant, Alcryst, and their retainers, engaged in fierce combat. Simultaneously, Eliwood, Lyn, and Hector fought valiantly alongside Alfred, Celine, and their loyal retainers against the relentless onslaught of enemy forces.
The atmosphere within the cathedral grew tense as Corrupted Morion snarled, summoning a legion of Corrupted soldiers from various entrances. Just in the nick of time, Alfonse, Sharena, Commander Anna, and Fallen Gustav arrived to join the fray, standing alongside Diamant, Alcryst, and their retainers. Sharena, readying her lance, Fensalir, addressed the dire situation.
"Looks like we made it just in time," Sharena remarked. "And it could've been no sooner!"
"Prince Diamant, Prince Alcryst..." Alfonse declared, his voice resolute. "We're here to help you take down your father, Morion."
Diamant, gripping his Fair-Fight Blade with determination, nodded appreciatively. "Glad you're here. We'll need all the help we can get against these Corrupted that are blocking the path to Father."
As Alcryst readied his Arcane Darkbow, he chimed in with a hint of concern, "Um... And there's a horde of them. This won't be an easy fight."
"Worry not..." Fallen Gustav, his gaze unwavering, explained their timely presence. "Kiran summoned us... We're here to assist you in this battle."
The group exchanged determined glances, ready to face the impending onslaught of Corrupted forces and bring an end to the dark influence that gripped Morion.
Then, Morion's thunderous roar echoed through the cathedral, signaling the onslaught of the Corrupted soldiers charging at the group. Alfonse, gripping his sword, Fólkvangr, took a decisive stance, rallying his allies.
"Get ready, everyone! We can't let Morion overwhelm us," Alfonse declared, urgency in his voice.
Fallen Gustav, the stalwart figure among them, took a step forward, addressing Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna with a determined expression.
"Alfonse, Sharena, Commander Anna... Open a way for me," Fallen Gustav instructed, his tone carrying the weight of strategy. "I'll clash weapons with Morion to weaken him so that... Diamant and Alcryst can finish the job."
Alfonse and Commander Anna nodded in agreement, their determination mirrored in their eyes. Sharena, wearing a resolute smile, chimed in with enthusiasm.
"We've got this! We'll open a way for Diamant and Alcryst to put an end to this," she affirmed.
Commander Anna, axe at the ready, added her assurance to the plan. "We have the opening we need. Let's do it!"
The group, unified in purpose, prepared to face Morion and the horde of Corrupted soldiers, each member poised to play a crucial role in the unfolding battle.
As the group chaotically clashed with the multitude of Corrupted soldiers, Gustav, Diamant, and Alcryst surged forward, determined to confront the twisted form of Morion. The corrupted former King of Brodia whose mind was lost to being turned into a Corrupted soldier, unleashed a primal roar as he charged at Gustav, wielding his Silver Sword with menacing intent.
Anticipating the attack, Gustav stood firm, meeting Morion's assault head-on with his formidable axe, Headsman Glitnir. The clash of the weapons echoed through the cathedral, the sheer force threatening to shatter the silence that lingered in the chaotic battleground.
With a swift and practiced movement, Gustav retaliated. His axe, now briefly enveloped in the fiery aura of the Bonfire technique, descended upon Morion. The flames danced along the weapon as it struck, sending Morion sprawling several feet away.
"Not good enough, I'm afraid," Gustav declared, his voice steady and resolute.
The flames of his retaliation flickered and subsided, leaving Morion momentarily incapacitated on the cold cathedral floor. The trio stood firm, ready to press on in their quest to end the corruption that had consumed Morion. With Morion knocked back, Gustav seized the moment, addressing Diamant and Alcryst with urgency.
"Now's our chance! Put him down!" Gustav declared with a steely determination in his eyes.
Diamant and Alcryst, though bearing the heavy weight of confronting their corrupted father, steeled themselves for the task ahead. Alcryst, readying his Arcane Darkbow, directed his words to the staggering Morion.
"If you have to die, let it be by my hand," Alcryst proclaimed, his voice tinged with a mix of determination and sorrow.
As Morion struggled to regain his footing after Gustav's powerful counterattack, Alcryst, fighting back tears, spoke with a heavy heart, acknowledging the burden that would fall upon Diamant.
"This will be unbearable for Diamant, but if you're still somewhere there, Father... Thank you for everything," Alcryst confessed, his voice wavering with emotion as he readied to fire an arrow from his Arcane Darkbow. "I hope it's enough!"
Summoning his resolve, Alcryst unleashed an arrow, the shot hitting Morion squarely in the chest. The former monarch staggered, propelled a few feet away by the impact, but stubbornly refused to be taken down. The trio faced the daunting task of bringing an end to the corrupted patriarch, knowing that their journey was far from over.
As Alcryst took his shot, Diamant, resolute and wielding his Fair-Fight Blade, stepped forward to face the corrupted manifestation of Morion, his father. Despite the gravity of the situation, Diamant fought to contain his emotions, struggling to hold back tears that threatened to betray the inner turmoil.
"This is going to be our last sparring match, Father," Diamant declared, his voice wavering with a mix of sorrow and determination.
Morion, consumed by corruption, lunged at Diamant with his Silver Sword. The clash of blades echoed through the cathedral as Diamant skillfully blocked the attack, maintaining his composure. With Morion momentarily pushed back, Diamant seized the moment to speak.
"When I was a boy, you were preparing me to fight my own battles," Diamant reminisced, his words carrying a poignant weight. "Today's the day, Father. I've been taught well."
Morion, now reduced to mindless roars, offered no coherent response as Diamant, fueled by a mix of sorrow and resolve, knocked him several feet away. The battleground bore witness to the culmination of a lifetime of training, now twisted by corruption and the painful necessity of ending a father's corrupted existence.
Amidst the echoing roars of the corrupted Morion, Diamant, wielding his Fair-Fight Blade, approached his father with a mix of sorrow and determination. As Morion stood before him, a twisted version of the father who had once instilled pride and strength into his son, Diamant found the strength to speak.
"You instilled pride and strength in me, Father. But most importantly, you loved my brother and me from the bottom of your heart," Diamant voiced his acknowledgment, his words a tribute to the man Morion once was.
Diamant's Fair-Fight Blade began to radiate a yellow glow, the manifestation of the potent Bonfire technique. Charging forward with a resolute determination, Diamant declared, "I'll prove my worth! For the pride of Brodia!"
The Bonfire-enhanced attack sliced through Morion, the energy enveloping the corrupted former monarch. Morion staggered and then finally collapsed to the ground.
In his last breaths, Morion uttered, "Arrgh... Strong of body... Strong of mind..."
As if acknowledging the essence of his former self, Morion's body began to dissipate into particles of darkness. The once-corrupted patriarch vanished, leaving behind a bittersweet closure and the lingering echo of familial love that had endured despite the corruption that had gripped him.
Upon Morion's body dissipating into darkness, the group, now united, gathered as Alfonse, Sharena, and Commander Anna joined Diamant, Alcryst, and their retainers. Alfonse, the commander among them, wasted no time in addressing the pressing matter.
"Is it done? Has Morion been put to rest?" Alfonse inquired, his gaze fixed on Diamant and Alcryst.
Diamant, nodding solemnly, confirmed, "It's done. My father has been put to rest."
"Indeed..." Fallen Gustav explained. "His sons... finished him off..."
However, the fleeting relief was interrupted by the emergence of another battalion of Corrupted, rising from the ground and charging menacingly.
Commander Anna, ever vigilant, declared, "It's not over yet!"
The group braced themselves for yet another round of battle, facing the relentless onslaught of the Corrupted soldiers. Amidst the clash of weapons and magic, Sharena voiced her concern, a hint of worry in her voice.
"I wonder how Alear and Kiran are doing?" she pondered aloud, a brief pause during the chaos, as the group fought side by side against the encroaching darkness. "I hope they're doing their part!"
On another side of Destinea Cathedral, Alear, Kiran, and the Male and Female versions of Byleth and Shez confronted the formidable trio of Hortensia, Rosaldo, and Goldmary. The two versions of Shez engaged in a fast-paced duel against Rosaldo and Goldmary, exchanging blows with skill and precision.
"How dare you make Hortensia sad!" Rosaldo declared atop his wyvern as he lunged at Male Shez.
"What does that even mean?" Male Shez was confused at that claim as he parried Rosaldo's attack. "It doesn't matter because I'm not gonna die here!"
"I must insist now - please die," Goldmary declared as she attacked Female Shez with her Steel Blade.
"Oh, no..." Female Shez replied as she parried Goldmary's attack with her Crimson War-Axe. "Not me!"
Meanwhile, Alear stepped forward, her eyes fixed on Hortensia, who was riding on her wyvern. "Princess Hortensia, we don't have to resort to violence. There's another way," she pleaded, attempting to diffuse the tension.
Hortensia, her eyes blazing with anger, snapped back at Alear. "You and Kiran took away my sister. I will never forgive you!" she spat, her words laced with bitterness and resentment.
Consumed by rage, Hortensia channeled her corrupted energy to reshape the Ring of the Instructor into a deadly lance named Lúin. With a furious cry, she lunged her wyvern at Alear, the lethal weapon aimed at her opponent. Then, the two versions of Byleth, quick on their feet, raised their Creator Swords together to meet the incoming attack, the clash of weapons ringing through the air. As the blades collided, both Male and Female Byleth strained against the force of Hortensia's assault.
"No hesitation," Male and Female Byleth uttered simultaneously as both of them clashed weapons against Hortensia.
"Princess Hortensia, you never gave us a chance to explain," Alear spoke, her eyes locked onto Hortensia's determined gaze.
Hortensia, her glare unyielding, retorted sharply, "What could the Divine One and Kiran possibly say to change my mind?"
Kiran, standing beside Alear, seized the opportunity to interject. "We can say this: Princess Ivy of Elusia is alive," he revealed, his voice steady.
Hortensia's eyes widened in disbelief, the revelation hitting her like a bolt of lightning. The momentum of her attack faltered for a moment as the weight of Kiran's words sank in. A hushed tension enveloped the battlefield, the clash of weapons momentarily replaced by an unsettling stillness. The truth about Ivy's fate had the power to reshape the course of the battle and, perhaps, the destinies of those involved.
Hortensia, propelled back by the force of her attack, found herself a few feet away from Alear. Hesitation mingled with hope in her eyes as she directed a question to Kiran. "Is it true? Is my sister alive?"
Kiran met her gaze with a nod, confirming, "Yes, she's alive."
Alear, seizing the opportunity to elaborate, spoke with a measured tone. "When we faced Ivy in battle, we made a conscious choice. We didn't take her life; instead, we spared her."
Hortensia's eyes flickered with a mix of disbelief and longing. "Spared?" she repeated, the weight of the revelation settling in.
Kiran stepped forward, offering further explanation. "Ivy sought asylum in Somniel with her retainers. She's currently with us."
For a moment, a heavy silence hung in the air as Hortensia processed the information. Then, in a burst of emotion, she exclaimed, "No! I refuse to believe it! My sister cannot be alive!"
Alear, her expression sympathetic, understood the tumultuous emotions raging within Hortensia. The complexities of their shared history and the newfound revelation about Ivy's fate intertwined, creating a moment of profound uncertainty on the battlefield. The truth, though delivered with sincerity, presented a challenge for acceptance.
Amid her emotional turmoil, tears streaming down her face, Hortensia, unable to accept the truth of her sister's survival, launched herself at Alear and Kiran in a desperate attempt to deny the reality unfolding before her. Alear, her expression a mix of sadness and urgency, shook her head, pleading with Hortensia to halt her assault.
"Hortensia, please! You have to believe us! Ivy is alive!" Alear implored, the sincerity in her voice cutting through the chaos of the battlefield.
"It's no use. Princess Hortensia is too agitated to listen," Kiran, recognizing the futility of words alone, took decisive action. "Male and Female Byleth, intercept her!" he commanded.
Without hesitation, the male and female versions of Byleth moved with precision, intercepting Hortensia's attack. The clash of weapons echoed through the air as the Byleths skillfully parried Hortensia's assault.
Locking eyes with her, the two Byelths uttered in unison, "Allow us to demonstrate."
With a synchronized effort, the Byleths unleashed a powerful counterattack, their Creator Swords glowed red upon activating Ruptured Sky, forcing Hortensia and her wyvern back several feet. The sheer force of their strike served as a stark visual reminder, a testament to the strength and truth behind Alear and Kiran's claims. The battlefield, already charged with tension, now held a momentary pause as Hortensia grappled with the undeniable evidence before her.
As Hortensia staggered back from the force of the Byleths' counterattack, her gaze swept across the battlefield. Her retainers, Rosaldo and Goldmary, found themselves overpowered by the relentless assault of the male and female versions of Shez.
A sense of defeat crept into Hortensia's expression as she sulked, muttering to herself, "Why do I always lose to the Divine One and Kiran?"
With a determined glint in her eyes, she declared, "I won't let them kill me. Rosaldo, Goldmary, retreat with me!"
As Hortensia and her retainers departed from Destinea Cathedral, Alear observed their departure. "Hortensia took the Ring of the Instructor with her," she remarked, her tone carrying a note of concern.
"Princess Hortensia is indeed, a stubborn and strong-willed girl," Kiran, focused on the larger picture, replied. "We can worry about Hortensia and her Emblem Ring later. Right now, we have more important matters at hand, like facing King Hyacinth."
The urgency of the situation pressed upon them, overshadowing the immediate concern of the Emblem Ring. The battle was far from over, and with Hortensia's departure, a new phase of challenges awaited Alear, Kiran, and their allies in the ongoing struggle against the forces of corruption as the door that was blocking the way toward King Hyacinth slowly creaked open...
The creaking door announced the arrival of Alear and Kiran, accompanied by the male and female versions of Byleth and Shez, as they regrouped with Fjorm, Eliwood, Lyn, and Hector. Fjorm, visibly relieved, directed her words to Kiran.
"Kiran!" Fjorm expressed, a genuine warmth in her voice. "I'm glad to see you're alright."
Kiran, brushing off the intensity of the situation, replied, "Could've gone better, but I'm okay."
Hector, always one for grand gestures, interjected with a booming applause. "Well done, Kiran! Your tenacity is truly commendable!"
However, Lyn's keen eyes caught sight of several Corrupted soldiers emerging from the cathedral's staircases. Observing the situation, she remarked, "We've taken down many, but more are coming."
Eliwood urged the group into action. "We need to fight our way through them and regroup with Alfonse, Diamant, and the others," he stated, his voice carrying a sense of urgency as they prepared to face the incoming onslaught of Corrupted soldiers.
Male Byleth, stepping into a tactical role, voiced his agreement with the plan to brute force their way through the incoming squadron of Corrupted. "Let's push through them," he declared, his tone determined.
"My thoughts are the same," Female Byleth concurred. "Sometimes, brute force may be the straightforward option when it comes to fighting such enemies."
Male Shez, concurring with Male Byleth, referred to him with a title that hinted at a shared history. "I agree, Ashen Demon. Brute force is the way," he asserted, a sense of camaraderie evident in his words.
"We'll mow these Corrupted down," Female Shez boasted as she readied her Crimson War-Axe.
Alear, taking charge and drawing her Libération sword, emphasized the urgency of their mission. "We need to rendezvous with Alfonse and Diamant quickly. No delays," she insisted, her sword gleaming in readiness.
With purpose, Alear and Kiran's group moved swiftly, determined to rejoin Alfonse and Diamant's group. They engaged any Corrupted enemy that dared to stand in their path, their weapons clashing against the encroaching darkness as they pressed forward with a singular focus on reaching their allies.
Amid the aftermath of the intense battle, Alear and Kiran's group successfully reunited with Alfonse and Diamant's group. Alfonse, expressing genuine relief, directed his words to Kiran.
"I'm glad to see you're alright," Alfonse stated, a sense of camaraderie evident in his voice.
Kiran, reciprocating the sentiment, replied, "We held our ground well so far. Good to see both groups together."
Their unity, however, was short-lived as King Hyacinth, a foreboding figure, addressed the assembled warriors. More Corrupted reinforced his position, and he callously explained the horrifying truth behind Morion's corruption.
"Tell me. How do you all feel about King Morion?" Hyacinth declared. "There was no more use for him once Lord Sombron drank his blood. So, Lord Sombron and I did you all a favor by turning Morion into a Corrupted!"
Diamant, seething with rage, could not contain his fury. "How dare you desecrate my Father!" he exclaimed, his voice echoing with the depth of his anger.
The united group now faced not only the physical threat of the Corrupted soldiers but also the unsettling revelation of the manipulation that had led to Morion's corruption.
Hyacinth, with a twisted sense of generosity, replied to Diamant's accusation with a rhetorical question, "Am I not generous?" His maniacal grin added a sinister edge to his words as he proposed that Diamant could show gratitude by meeting his demise.
Sporting that unsettling grin, Hyacinth tapped into the power of the Ring of the Lady of the Plains, summoning a short bow with several arrows into his hands. In a vicious display, he unleashed a barrage of arrows aimed at Diamant. However, Kiran swiftly intervened, firing shots from his Breidablik to intercept and cancel out the incoming attack.
Hyacinth's sneer deepened as he turned his scornful gaze towards Kiran. "Your summoned Heroes are no match against the Emblems that Lord Sombron has corrupted," he declared with a chilling confidence.
"King Hyacinth," Alear, undeterred, retorted in Kiran's stead. "Is that what you tell yourself to delude your conscience?"
In a defiant declaration, Kiran addressed Hyacinth directly, "We, along with the Emblems and Heroes fighting by our side, are about to defy you, King Hyacinth."
The battlefield became a stage for a clash of ideals and powers, with Kiran leading the charge against the tyrant king's malevolence.
As the relentless onslaught of Corrupted assailants closed in on Alear and Kiran's group, Hyacinth's voice cut through the chaos with chilling intent. "You will pay for insulting me and Lord Sombron," he declared, his words laced with a dark determination.
With a swift and ominous gesture, Hyacinth activated another enigmatic ability of the Ring of the Lady of the Plains. A surge of dark energy radiated from the ring, giving birth to four illusory images of his likeness, each mirroring his malevolent presence.
Alear's expression darkened into a scowl as she observed the unsettling display. "I didn't anticipate the Ring of the Lady of the Plains to possess such an ability," she remarked, her voice a mixture of surprise and concern.
Emblem Marth, offering insight, explained, "His Emblem Ring allows him to create up to four illusory copies of himself. It makes it challenging to discern the real Hyacinth from the illusions." The battlefield now posed an additional layer of complexity, with illusions and reality intertwining as Hyacinth employed the deceptive power of the Emblem Ring.
Baldraz, the enigmatic spirit residing within Kiran's Breidablik, conveyed crucial information to Kiran amidst the chaotic battlefield. "The real Hyacinth is amongst the illusory copies, positioned at the center of the group," he revealed, his voice echoing with an ethereal resonance.
Taking charge of the situation, Kiran swiftly addressed the rest of the group with a firm resolve. "Everyone, we need to take down the illusions quickly," he urged, his eyes scanning the battlefield. Turning to Lyn, he added, "Lyn, support Alear with me. We must dismantle these illusions together."
Lyn, brandishing her Sol Katti with unwavering determination, nodded in agreement. "I sense a familiar power emanating from Hyacinth's Emblem Ring," she remarked, her voice resonating with confidence. "We'll take down these illusions swiftly."
As the group engaged in a fierce battle against the Corrupted soldiers and Hyacinth's deceptive illusions, Alear expressed her gratitude to Kiran and Lyn for their steadfast support amidst the chaos.
With a resolute declaration, Alear activated the Ring of the Hero-King, her voice ringing out with unwavering determination. "Emblem Engage!" she proclaimed, invoking the transformative power of the ring and assuming her Engage form, radiating with newfound strength and purpose.
With those words, she activated the Ring of the Hero-King, transforming into her Engage form. The battlefield witnessed a surge in power as Alear prepared to face the corrupted king in her enhanced state, united with the support of her allies.
Amidst the chaotic clash against the Corrupted soldiers and Hyacinth's deceptive illusions, Alear, Kiran, and Lyn found themselves facing off against the formidable King Hyacinth, the mastermind behind King Morion's death and subsequent transformation into a Corrupted.
Hyacinth, exuding a mix of arrogance and frustration, scoffed at their ability to discern him amidst the illusions he had conjured with his Emblem Ring. "How were you able to find me among the illusions I summoned with my Emblem Ring?" he demanded, his voice carrying a hint of disbelief.
Kiran fixed a steely glare upon Hyacinth, his voice cutting through the tension with unwavering resolve. "Your foul energy stands out among the illusions you conjured," he explained, his words laced with a determination that echoed through the tumultuous battlefield.
In a fit of seething rage, Hyacinth transformed his Emblem Ring into a malevolent sword named Mani Katti, the dark energy that radiated from the blade pulsating with sinister intent. With a menacing determination, he charged at Kiran, his movements fueled by a maelstrom of dark emotions.
In a split second, Lyn surged forward, intercepting Hyacinth's ferocious assault with her own Sol Katti, the clash of their weapons resounding through the battlefield like a thunderous symphony of steel and dark energy.
Lyn's eyes blazed with a fierce determination as she locked gazes with Hyacinth, her voice ringing out with unwavering conviction. "You have no right to wield the Mani Katti as your own," she declared, her tone laced with righteous indignation.
Driven by his malevolence, Hyacinth snapped back at Lyn with a vicious retort. "You are an Emblem, and you will do as I say!" he exclaimed, his voice reverberating with a chilling authority.
"I am not an Emblem; I am a Hero summoned by Kiran!" Lyn retorted defiantly, her Sol Katti glowing green with determination. Then, the Sol Katti in Lyn's grasp began to glow with a vibrant green light as she channeled her indomitable spirit.
"By my sword!" Lyn declared, unleashing the full force of her Astra skill. In a blur of swift movements, Lyn unleashed a flurry of five rapid slashes, each strike finding its mark with unerring precision and staggering Hyacinth in the process.
Alear, seizing the opportunity, followed up with her declaration, "This ends now!"
Activating her Lodestar Rush engage attack, she unleashed a relentless assault, slashing Hyacinth seven times in quick succession. The combined onslaught proved overwhelming, knocking Hyacinth back against the cathedral wall, defeated. As Hyacinth was knocked away to the cathedral's walls, his grip on the Mani Katti loosened, and the transfigured sword dropped to the ground and reverted to the Ring of the Lady of the Plains, which Alear picked up as she reverted to her original form.
The cathedral bore witness to the triumphant clash of heroes against corruption, as Lyn and Alear's coordinated efforts brought an end to Hyacinth's malevolence. The echoes of their victory lingered in the air, and the battlefield fell momentarily silent, marking the conclusion of a decisive battle.
As Hyacinth lay defeated, the remnants of his Corrupted soldiers scattered across the cathedral, Alfonse, his voice tinged with relief, turned to Alear and Kiran.
"Is the battle over?" Alfonse inquired, his eyes seeking confirmation amid the aftermath of the tumultuous conflict.
Kiran, his gaze steady and unwavering, nodded in response to Alfonse's question. "This battle is indeed over," he affirmed, his voice carrying a sense of finality as the weight of their hard-won victory settled upon the battlefield.
Turning to the Heroes he had summoned to aid them in the harrowing conflict, Kiran addressed them with a solemn command. "Return to Zenith and document this battle," he instructed with his words carrying the weight of their collective triumph. "We must ensure that this chapter is recorded for posterity."
Male Byleth, his expression resolute, stepped forward to offer his assistance. "The Female Byleth and I can help write a report about the battle," he offered with his voice a reassuring presence amid the fading echoes of conflict.
As two versions of Byleth and Shez, along with Eliwood, Hector, Lyn, and Fallen Gustav began to fade away from Elyos, Lyn approached Kiran with a heartfelt expression.
"You'd best be careful out there," Lyn cautioned, her voice carrying a note of concern for the trials that lay ahead. Her words resonated with a deep sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, a testament to the bonds forged amidst the crucible of battle.
As the summoned Heroes gradually faded away from Elyos, Kiran turned his attention to Alfonse, Sharena, Fjorm, and Commander Anna, expressing gratitude for their continued presence.
"You four stayed because of me," Kiran remarked, a sense of appreciation in his tone.
Alfonse, smiling warmly, responded, "You know us well, Kiran. We stick together."
Sharena, with her usual cheerfulness, chimed in, "Yeah, we don't want you to be left on your own in Elyos!"
"True," Fjorm glanced sideways as she replied to Kiran. "I owe my continued strength to you, Kiran."
"As Heroes, we all owe our prowess to Kiran himself, Princess Fjorm," Commander Anna, ever vigilant, added her perspective.
"I couldn't agree more!" Alfred bombastically replied as he drew out his Arcane Qiang. "I felt great when Kiran summoned me as a Hero!"
"I could say the same, brother," Celine replied as she held her Joyous Tome in her hands. "Being a Hero feels like being an Emblem."
"Becoming a Hero has granted me strength that I otherwise wouldn't be able to do," Diamant spoke. "And I owe Kiran Pathfinder for that."
"S-same here," Alcryst stammered. "I admit being a Hero is growing on me..."
"We owe all our growth not just to the Emblems," Alear declared. "But also to Kiran for us to be summoned under him as Heroes."
Just as their conversation unfolded, a shuffling noise drew their attention. To their surprise, Hyacinth, though grievously wounded, was still alive. Struggling to stand, the defeated king exhibited a tenacity that hinted at an unforeseen twist in the unfolding events. The group now faced the lingering threat of Hyacinth's resilience, leaving them with uncertain prospects for the battles yet to come.
"And he's still standing?" Commander Anna remarked at Hyacinth. "I've got a bad feeling about this..."
As the defeated Hyacinth struggled to stand, Alear, Diamant, and Kiran approached him with resolute determination. "It's over," Alear declared, her voice carrying a note of finality as she addressed the vanquished king.
Despite his weakened state, Hyacinth huffed defiantly, warning them not to come closer as he struggled against the weight of his defeat. Diamant, fueled by a fierce determination to avenge his father, readied his Fair-Fight Blade with steely resolve. "It's time to avenge my father," he declared, his voice echoing with a solemn resolve.
However, their confrontation was abruptly halted as a mysterious figure cloaked in purple cast a formidable fireball spell, the flames erupting across the cathedral floor with an ominous intensity, halting Diamant's advance.
Kiran, recognizing the cloaked girl from a previous encounter, spoke with a sense of grim recognition. "I remember seeing her back at the Ring Vault raid of Lythos Castle," he recalled with his words carrying a weight of foreboding as he pieced together the enigmatic figure's presence amidst the turmoil.
Alear, her voice tinged with a mix of concern and determination, echoed Kiran's sentiments. "That cloaked figure is the very same one who fought my mother, Lumera," she affirmed, her words carrying the weight of familiarity against this adversary.
"Thank you!" Hyacinth said to the cloaked girl. "I thought I was finished here!"
The cloaked girl fixed a smug gaze upon Hyacinth, her voice laced with a calculated assurance. "I only saved you out of sheer pragmatism," she declared, her words carrying an air of certainty. "Fell Dragon Sombron will be here at any moment."
As if on cue, an imposing, draconic figure materialized within the cathedral, casting a foreboding shadow that heralded the arrival of Fell Dragon Sombron, a presence that sent shivers through the assembled group.
Alear's expression twisted into a grimace as the weight of Commander Anna's hunch unfolded before them. "Commander Anna's hunch was right," she remarked, her voice tinged with a mix of apprehension and resolve.
Commander Anna, her gaze unwavering as she beheld the awe-inspiring presence of Fell Dragon Sombron, affirmed her intuition with a sense of quiet determination. "My battle intuition was on the spot all along," she declared, her words resonating with a deep sense of confidence amidst the gathering storm.
Kiran, recognizing the gravity of the situation, remarked, "Now is the time to retreat from Destinea Cathedral."
The unexpected appearance of the Fell Dragon heightened the urgency of their circumstances, prompting the group to consider a strategic withdrawal from the unfolding confrontation.
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 outskirts of Elusia a few miles away from Destinea Cathedral, Ivy, Elusia's crown princess, mounted on her wyvern, surveyed the surroundings while her retainers, Zelkov and Kagetsu, trailed her on the ground. In the distance, she spotted her younger sister, Hortensia, making her escape from the cathedral along with her retainers.
Upon spotting her younger sister Hortensia fleeing the cathedral with her retinue, Kagetsu turned to Ivy with a question, his voice carrying a note of cautious inquiry. "Princess Ivy, would you like to meet with your younger sister?" he asked, his words laced with a sense of consideration for Ivy's emotions amid the tumultuous events unfolding.
Ivy, however, shook her head with a resolute determination. "Hm... I'll meet up with Hortensia some other time," she declared, her voice carrying the weight of unspoken responsibilities and pressing concerns. "My sister and her retainers can take care of themselves."
Turning her attention to Zelkov, Ivy issued a directive with a sense of urgency. "Have you retrieved a certain Emblem Ring?" she inquired, her words laden with a sense of purpose as she sought to secure a crucial artifact in the face of looming adversity.
Zelkov, huffing with the weight of his recent endeavors, presented the Ring of the Princess Exalt, its once-gleaming surface was still tainted with a foreboding red hue that bore the mark of the Fell Dragon's corruption.
"I have *infiltrated* Elusia Castle to retrieve *this* Emblem Ring," Zelkov reported with his words carrying a sense of quiet accomplishment amid the treacherous mission.
Ivy nodded with a firm resolve, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "Alear and Kiran will certainly need help at this point," she affirmed, her voice carrying a note of unwavering commitment to their allies in the face of an impending crisis. "I hope we'll arrive in time."
The retrieved Emblem Ring hinted at a strategic advantage that could aid their allies in the impending battle against the Fell Dragon Sombron. Ivy and her retainers resumed their trek toward Destinea Cathedral, in hopes of assisting Alear and Kiran before all was lost.
In the next chapter:
Emblems And Heroes
A Fire Emblem Heroes x Fire Emblem Engage Crossover
Chapter 16: Revelations Amid Retreat!
See you fellas next time!