Disclaimer - I don't own Fire Emblem. All of its properties belong to Nintendo and Intelligent Systems.

Light warning for some mildly disturbing content

Chapter 15

Despite my newfound desire to get my strategist on, I had one big problem: I'm bedridden. Not much one can do when trapped in a small room due to the doctor's orders. So, as soon as Anneliese reappeared, I asked her to retrieve my strategy books. Boy, did she look upset when I said that. It took some negotiating but I was able to discover her weakness for big eyes and a wibbling lower lip. Soon, I had her in my palms. Guilt washed over her as I unleashed the puppy eyes. Anneliese probably huffed the whole way there and back, but she still returned. Only one book came with her though, and it had to be the one with bigger text and pictures. From how she made it sound in her ranting, having my poor feeble brain try to process smaller text would have caused it to explode. I would never have guessed such a thing could occur! Or, maybe she's suffering from an acute case of worrywart-itis. My bet's on the latter.

Time went by relatively quietly as I sat curled up with my book. Libra did return again to inform me that everyone was relieved to hear I had finally awoken. They were also eager to visit once they had a chance. Apparently all the Shepherds had, in some way or another, been extremely busy this past week. The new developments pouring in from around the country in regards to Plegia and the Risen were causing a mess. Between war councils, refugees pouring in, and reinforced patrols, everyone was getting worked into the ground. Looks like the plot is definitely starting to heat up.

Libra stuck to his guns about soft food cause when lunch came around, all I got was a bowl of porridge and some bread. Stahl was certainly right about the porridge. Without honey or anything to go with it, it tasted like I was eating one of Frederick's jokes. Heh.

You know, cause his jokes are bland. And the porridge is bland. Get it? Ha, ha?

Gods, I'm so bored it's pathetic. Shoot me.

Eventually the words on the book's pages began to blur together and I found myself nodding.I must have near drifted off into a sleep because loud knocking jolts me from my dazed state. When I peek out the window, I see the sun has dipped from its position overhead to just above the horizon. I stretch out my arms and try to limber up.

But before I can get up to open the door, it opens just a crack. Libra's golden head peeks in. He looks surprised to see me up and promptly slips in through the door frame, keeping it ajar with his hand.

"Hey Libra. How's it going?" I manage out after a long yawn.

"Greetings Robin," he states cheerfully. "I hope I did not disturb you with my knocking. Apologies if I did. You see, there are a few of your friends here to see you. I had first wished to know if you felt well enough to receive anyone. I don't want to-"

I jerk back in surprise as the door flies open with a unceremoinous BANG. Libra barely hops away as two figures walk through. Vaike is the first I recognize. I have to do a double take when I see what he's wearing. He strides in looking like he came right out of training, just washed up. What stands out is the brightly crocheted Granny poncho he's got thrown over his shoulders. It's three sizes two small and barely covers that muscular torso of his he loves to show off. Ten bucks Anneliese flipped out when he walked in shirtless and demanded he cover up for decency's sake. No shirt, no service so to say. Props to him though because he's strutting around with no shame at the thought of having to wear the fringed baby yellow poncho.

Sully's bright red hair gives her away as she walks up behind him. Like Vaike, Sully is dressed in her black training gear and riding boots. She glares hotly at him as she comes to his side and slaps him upside the head.

"Could you have thrown that any harder Vaike? You nearly ripped the door off its hinges!" she chastises.

The warrior rubs the back of his head and produces an annoyed pout aimed at his companion. "Hey! Don't hate the Vaike. It's the door's fault it can't withstand the force of my natural prowess."

Sully rolls her eyes and throws an apologetic look toward the startled healer. "Sorry about that."

Libra, who is pressed up against the wall and breathing heavy from the shock, tries to recompose himself. He produces a forced smile in response.

By this point, Vaike has finally noticed me sitting up in bed. He grows a mischievous look and elbows Sully in the side. "Check it out Sully, this fella here was right. Sleeping Manly's awoken in all her full glory."

I narrow my eyes at his comment. Say what now?

Sully crosses her arms and delivers him an incredulous look. "That's got to be a new record for you, Vaike. You're only in the room for one minute and you've managed to piss off everyone inside."

He just laughs off her words. "Naw, ain't nobody mad here. There's nothin' wrong with some friendly jokes between fellow Shepherds, right Robin?"

"What?"

Okay, now I'm really confused. Maybe I am still asleep and dreaming. Did Vaike just say what I think he said? Last I knew, he and Sully were still being incredibly distant about the whole Plegian cult thing. When did we suddenly become fellow Shepherds cause I definitely missed the memo on that one.

"Beg pardon. I don't mean to interrupt your conversation but I would kindly ask that you lower your enthusiasm a tad. I understand you are elated to see your friend again. I must remind you though that she has awoken only just today. Robin is still in a delicate state," Libra politely orders.

"Hey, she's been sleeping the whole week. I'm sure she's just fine," Vaike states confidently as he walks to the bedside. "Ain't that right Robin?" He pulls his hand up and gives me a friendly 'pat' on the back . The power behind his swing forces out of me a wheezy "Ow" that causes Libra to pale at the sight of the action.

His hand shoots out and snakes around Vaike's wrist, pulling it away from me. He puts on his usual smile but his sunny disposition is about as frosty as a winter morning. In fact, it's sort of scary.

"Please don't batter my patient like that. She is still recovering, regardless of how she may look," he orders, his voice dripping in sweetness and acid at the same time. Vaike goes to pull away but Libra holds him fast, staring him down so he gets the point.

Vaike lets out a nervous laugh as he successfully wriggles from the other man's grasp. "Yeah, sure thing Doc. Whatever you say." He throws the other man a look of annoyance before subtly shifting away from him.

"Perhaps it is best if you both simply come back tomorrow," Libra continues. "As I stated before, Robin has only been up for so long. I do not mind simple conversation, but if such actions are to be expected then I do not feel it prudent to continue the visit further."

Sully shakes her head and reaches out, boxing Vaike's ear. "That's not necessary. I promise that lughead here will keep his hands to himself from now on."

"Yeah sure, hands free," Vaike winces as he pushes her away. "Shepherd's honor."

Libra turns to me for the final consent. "It's fine," I reply.

There's no harm in having a few visitors, especially these two. The first few days of the trip back I had tried to extend the olive branch to both Sully and Vaike in an attempt to talk, much as I had with Frederick. While Vaike had been the more receptive of the two, I think his troubles with Miriel were dampening his desire to chat. Sully, on the other hand, would just walk away as soon as I tried to talk to her. So having these two voluntarily walk into my room with friendly intentions is more than I could have hoped for. No way I'm tossing them out now when we may finally have a chance to speak like real comrades!

Libra doesn't look all that convinced and gives the duo a look of warning while he speaks to me. "If that is what you wish, I will abide by it. I am merely a shout away should you need me."

"Really, Libra, it'll be alright."

"Yes, well, I only thought you should know. I will leave you to your guests then." He gives them another passive-agressive stare before leaving. Sheesh, Libra's certainly possessive about his patients.

As soon as the door closes, Vaike exhales and drops the forced look of compliance. "Criven's horn, ain't he a scary one. All them healers are the same. Sticks so far up their bums you could wave 'em around like a flag."

"I wouldn't go saying that to his face Vaike," Sully warns. "Libra's not just a healer from the church. He's also a warmonk and, from what I hear the servants say, one of the Church's finest. He's probably got some muscle behind those robes of his he wouldn't hesitate to use on you."

"He wishes! You see how Vaike Jr. and Sir Bosco are lookin' nowdays? They're in their prime!" he gloats as he flexes each muscle in tandem with the name he announces.

I can't help but stare at him in disbelief as my eyes switch between the two bulging biceps. "You named your arms?"

Vaike beams with pride and slaps his right. "Hells yeah! Rightie here is named after his proud papa. And Leftie?" I swear to God, for a second there it looks like he's going to kiss it. "Named in honor of the only bear to best me in combat. Wrestled me straight to the ground he did!"

I glance over at Sully and raise my eyebrows, begging her to tell me he's making this up.

Her face crumples into embarrassment as she presses two fingers to her forehead. I don't even...I shouldn't be surprised by this. Honestly, it's totally a Vaike-like thing to do. I mean, if I name my houseplants I guess this isn't much different. Right? Right?

"Enough with the dramatics," Sully exasperates. "Look, we just stopped in by request to see how you were. Chrom's stuck in all sorts of governmental rubbish and going right insane with worry."

"Ain't just him. When word got round the castle that you finally decided to join the living again, there was a lot of relief in the Shepherd barracks," Vaike adds.

"That's an understantement. Sumia broke down into tears," Sully scoffs. "It's about damn time too. That girl was gonna rip up the royal garden. She's been doing those damn readings of her's everyday trying to figure out when you'd wake up."

Oh man, Sumia. I know it couldn't be helped, but I just feel so bad now. I can't imagine how sick with worry she must have been. How everyone must have been. I know I shouldn't feel so guilty, but I can't help it.

"I...sorry," I mumble automatically.

Sully looks surprised by my sudden apology and then instantly looks away. She frowns and bites down on the corner of her lip. "The hells you apologizing for?" she growls hotly. "It's not your damn fault!"

Her flustered response causes Vaike to laugh. "Hey, easy there Sully. She don't mean nothin' by it." He turns to me. "Don't mind her. She's just been stewin' in her own guilt since Regna Ferox."

"Oi, shut your bleeding bunghole you bastard!" Sully blurts out. She launches a mild punch into his shoulder that he easily absorbs with a good-natured shake of the head.

I'm not sure what's going on right now and it's probably best to just wave it off. "Uh, no worries then. It's alright."

"No, it isn't alright!" Sully snaps, causing me to lean away from the force of her anger. She notices my flinch and her anger deflates. "For the love of...Hells take me. I'm no good at this sort of thing,"she mumbles as she massages her temples. "Look, enough of this small talk bullshitting. Straight up, we're not here just cause Chrom asked us to. We came to apologize."

I, er, what? That's certainly not what I was expecting to hear. I mean, why? Shit, what do I say? "Um, t-that's okay? No hard feelings?" I stutter in confusion.

"Tch, really? Gods!" Sully groans, glancing away in embarrassment. "That's not how you do things you dummy! You don't forgive us until after we deliver the apology speech!"

"Sorry, I just...I have no idea what's going on right now."

Vaike leans against the dresser, supporting his weight on bended elbow. He looks downright amused with Sully's frayed nerves. "Heh, just ignore her. Sully's not the best when it comes to expressin' anything aside from her usual surly rage."

"Ass," she hisses out with an accompanying death glare.

"What'd I say? The Vaike is never wrong." Now it's his turn to look unsure of himself. He runs a hand nervously through his hair as he searches for words. "She's right in sayin' we're here to apologize though. Fact is, that's the reason we volunteered to check in for Chrom. Felt it'd be the right time to say something 'bout our recent treatment of ya."

I blink. This is unexpected.

"Look, we...we've been treating you like the dirt under our boots," Sully grumbles with a frown. She wraps her arms around her and avoids my gaze as she forces herself to continue. "We've either given you lip or ignored you outright because of what that woman at the Wall said and it ain't right. Instead of trusting Chrom, we decided to give into our own prejudices. It's not fair to you and it sure in the hells isn't what a Shepherd does."

Vaike nods in agreement. "Right. A friend of Chrom's should be a friend of the Vaike's." He gives me a supportive look. "Especially after what happened back in that grove. The way we hear it, you pretty much saved our best friend's life by tusslelin' with that Risen. Taking a curse to the face and living ain't too shabby either. I'd say you've earned the seal of approval for that."

I feel my face starting to heat up in embarrassment. I'm not good with this sort of thing. It's not that I'm not grateful for the acknowledgement! I just tend to think such praise is unnecessary for me. I mean, I just did what anyone would do. I dunno. Maybe I just fluster easy. I certainly don't like the attention being drawn to me.

It's not like they really need to apologize either. I get it. I've come to terms with everyone's attitudes awhile ago. I used to be angry about it but, after that talk with Frederick, I see where they're coming from. Yeah, it bites when they gave me flack about "being Plegian." They technically aren't wrong and I was wandering around wearing the coat of a Grimleal priest. In hindsight, that is incredibly stupid. Why the hell would you be wearing that Robin? Back on point however. I'm glad Vaike and Sully, especially Sully, have lost their inhibitions about me. It's important that we can trust each other as a team.

I look down as I speak, hoping they don't seem the bloom of red on my cheeks. "I, um, thanks. Really, you don't have to though. I get where you're coming from. From what I've come to understand, Plegia kind of sucks. I don't blame you for being cautious, or upset, given the obvious signs surrounding me. Heck, I'm starting to wonder about my own intelligence given I was walking around in plain sight with a freaking Grimleal beacon slapped on my back. It's like I was asking for trouble."

"Eh, don't fault yourself too much Robin," Vaike says reaches over and nudges my arm in a teasing way. "You've turned out to be a pretty swell gal regardless of the circumstances. We owe ya good for keeping Chrom and the little monster alive."

"It's nothing, really. I just stumbled in and did what anyone would have. In fact, it's little compared to what I still owe you all for taking me in. And now I owe you another debt for breaking the curse on me. In all actuality, it should be me thanking you!"

Sully looks like she doesn't know whether to punch me or laugh. Maybe both given how she's staring at me. "We come here to apologize to you and you turn it around on us. Anyone else would have taken the chance to scream at us, kick, and make us grovel. You are something else entirely Robin."

"Look, Sumia told me the Shepherds have taken some personal hits from Plegia and it made me understand that there's probably some good reasons for the wariness you all have. Do I approve of how you went about displaying that wariness? No. But I do get that you're all just trying to protect what you still have. It'd be stupid to try and draw out the conflict by being petty about the past."

Both visitors quickly exchange a knowing glance. There's both pain and sadness in their eyes. I wonder how deep that loss really goes. Not just for them, but for the country as a whole.

"She's certainly right about that," Sully agrees in a low voice. There's a hard edge to her words as she speaks. "Those people just aren't right. The whole lot of 'em. It's a country full of nothing but murderers and psychopaths."

"They can't all be that bad. Not that I'm sticking up for them or anything," I add in hastily.

"Yeah, you'd think that," Vaike says. "But I've yet to meet one. Must be somethin' in the water that makes the folks crazy." He takes a moment to rub his chin in contemplation. "You don't remember much 'bout Plegia, do ya Robin?"

"Nothing at all," I lie. In truth, I know as much as the game alluded to. Plegia's comprised of what was once home to the Medeus' seat of power, Dohlr, and several of the neighboring kingdoms. Going by what the game showed, it's kind of deserty. There's also that little thing about cults, imprisoned earth dragons, sacrifices, and one heck of an inbreeding program. Sounds like a great place to vacation.

"Thought not. You seemed kinda blindsided back at the wall there. Let Teach educate ya on the topic a little then." Vaike whips out the chair nearby and spins it around so the back faces me. He slides right into it, resting his arms on the top of it.

"This ought to be good," Sully snorts. "Cause you're certainly qualified to teach a history lesson."

"I am a man of many passions Sully! History is one of them," he nods all sage-like.

"History was your worst subject when we were kids," she bluntly points out.

"Nah, that was spelling. History was my second worst. See, more than qualified."

"Vaike, you only know where Plegia is because your hometown is right on the border. You thought Valm was Regna Ferox when you first pointed to it on a map."

"To which I was promptly corrected. Problem solved."

Vaike had classes with Sully? He's a commoner according to the game. How did that happen? Time to dig a little deeper here. "You took lessons together? I didn't know you were a noble too Vaike"

Sully lets out a harsh laugh. "He wishes. Vaike just got lucky."

"Tch, please. As soon as I showed up on their doorstep they smelled greatness. And after they saw my letter of recommendation, well heck, they had to accept me."

"Yeah, if you consider a leather hide stamped with hand prints from your grubby urchin gang as recommendations. I'm sure that passed with flying colors," Sully laughs even harder.

"It got me into the castle!"

"As a stable boy."

"I was the best stable boy ya'll ever had. Never had a finer one since the Vaike left, says ol' Hess. Don't you forget it."

"So how did he end up taking classes with a bunch of nobles?" I butt in before another argument ensued.

"It's a long story," Sully waves with her hand. "Short version, it involves Chrom, kidnappers, a pitfall, and a whole lot of manure. Vaike saved Chrom and happy endings were abound. To reward him, Emmeryn upgraded Vaike's status to Chrom's whipping boy, though really he just served as a glorified playmate. Got him into all the classrooms and eventually the training field too."

"O-oh. That's impressive." I guess that's one way to make your dreams come true. And here I thought he just went and joined the army. Certainly a more colorful back story than I was expecting from Vaike.

"Heh, yeah. I rule," Vaike boasts proudly. "That fateful night set about the beginnings of greatness. The saga of two blood brothers and rivals in progress. A hero of nobility and a hero of the common people destined to be remembered for the ages! Can't be forgettin' about our dear noble lady though. The third part of our heroic trio," Vaike says with a grand gesture toward Sully.

"You mean noble knight you clod. I was always the knight, Chrom the lord, and you the lady, just like in the stories."

He looks ill at her words and seems to stress when he sneaks a peek at me. "Hold on now. I recall being the knight. The super manly knight."

Sully scoffs. "Sir Maron was a girl so regardless of what you protest, you're always going to be one. So you might as well accept the truth."

"I'm confused. Why is Vaike a girl and when did this development happen?" I ask.

Vaike cringes visibly thanks to Sully's words. "It's a game we used to play when we were little runts. Reenacted adventures of the three great heroes of the Schism. They're the ones that led the fight to take down Grima."

"Chrom's ancestor was the first Exalt so he got dibs on playing him. The Exalt's wife was a commoner, a shepherd to be exact. Her leadership abilities and combat prowess proved even the peasantry could be heroes, like Vaike here. Hence, he was stuck with the role," Sully states as she ticks off each role with another finger. "And being from a knight family, I got to be the role of the great knight who lead the queen's fabled honor guard, a group of twelve fellow shepherds who followed her to the field and fought under her banner."

"I'm going to take a stab and say this has something to do with how the Shepherds got their name."

"You got it," Sully confirms. "It's Chrom's favorite story. He would order us to play it with him once a day. You can't play it without three people so I always got saddled into it." She lets out a chuckle. "Vaike would always complain because Chrom would never relinquish the title of the Lord so he'd always be stuck being a girl."

Vaike slinks into his chair. "I got no problem being the gal once in a while but sometimes a man wants to be a man, ya know?"

"For the record, you made a really pretty lady Vaike."

"And you're going to make a real ugly lady after I give ya a black eye!"

Vaike jumps on Sully and pulls her down. He wraps an arm around her head and traps her in an armlock. She cusses loudly and begins to squirm, throwing her elbow into his ribs as they fight for dominance.

This whole scenario is ridiculous. Weren't they suppose to be educating me on Plegia or something? I think that's a thing of the past. How did this get so weird? Something tells me that when these three get together, it's a common thing to see. It's rather endearing in a warped sort of way. It sounds like these three are really tight, like the Three Amigos or the Three Musketeers.

"You guys get along real swell, don't you?" I say, voicing my suspicions.

Sully wriggles from Vaike's grip. She promptly pulls away and begins to muss with her hair. "Yeah, we do," Sully grins. "Chrom and this numskull here are as close to me as..." Her own smile falters,"...as my own brothers were."

Vaike pauses from the sneak attack he's about to unleash on her. He backs down and lowers his arms, sombering up alongside her. " 'ey Sully. You alright?"

"Tch, yeah. Listen to me get all weak there. It's just..." Sully gets real quiet for a few moments, then looks me in the eyes. "You know how those bandits attacked Southtown."

"Yes," I say.

"And you know how they weren't exactly bandits. More like Plegians posing as such to stir up shit between Ylisse and them."

"So I heard."

She takes a deep breath. "You really want to know why I came down on you so hard in Regna Ferox? Well, what happened in Southtown happened to my real brothers. A couple of scumbag 'bandits' decided to raze a town or two along with everyone in it on the border. Coincidentally, my brothers were stationed in one of them. They...they did their duty as knights and saved a lot of lives that day. 'Course what's a squadron of ill prepared knights to a horde of godless heathens."

Holy mackerel. That's not cool. "Sully, you can stop. I get it."

"No, you need to hear this. I want you to know why I was so critical of you back then. See, those Plegian sons of bitches slaughtered every last one of them and then laid their bodies to bake in the sun. Left them like dried meat for the vultures. They pushed back every set of reinforcements we had until the whole west deployment marched them out. When we got the bodies back..." she lets out a strangled laugh, "there's wasn't much left to bury."

"Fuuuuudge," I murmur in shock. That's just sick. Why the hell would anyone do that? What kind of sick freak of nature would just...God. I think I get it now.

"Now imagine that happening constantly for the past decade with rising increases in attacks every year. How many knights are dead because of these freaks? How many mothers are handed nothing but their sons' armor when the bodies are retrieved. And it's not just the knights who suffer either." She throws a solemn glance at the third person in the room. "Isn't that right Vaike?"

The warrior has been standing this whole time with his head down, staring blankly at the floor. With a sad shake, he confirms her statement. "Yeah. Ain't just the boys either. Women don't fare all that well either. A lot of them are lucky to be alive after an encounter. Even more so that they don't come out with a lasting reminder."

I feel my stomach drop. I feel sick. "A lasting reminder?"

"Let's just say I got a sister no one was expectin'," he admits with a rueful smile.

"Oh shit," I slip up with a curse. "Guys, cripes. Holy crap." I don't even know what to say, what to think. Sumia wasn't kidding. I can't help but feel for these two. I mean, seriously. What in the hell is wrong with people? To commit such atrocities seems so-so abnormal. Barbaric. Demonic! Who in their right mind would even be able to do something like that to another human being?

A heavy sorrow settles over the room, overtaking each of us. Sully and Vaike are both lost in their own stories of suffering and I can only sit here helplessly. It really is no wonder they were super concerned about my presence.

"Um..." I raise my hand slowly to get their attention. "Anyone feel like punching the alleged Plegian in the room. It may make you feel better and I won't mind at all."

The two of them stare at me for a second and then the realization of my words sink in. Sully slowly lets a smile creep on her face and Vaike breaks into a half laugh, half snuffle behind his hand.

The knight balls her fist up and leans over, giving me a light tap to the side of the head. "You're a weird kid. But a good one." She drops her hand and sighs. "Sorry for the unwarranted storytime but I wanted you to know why I'm serious when it comes to keeping the Shepherds alive. I'm not reliving the same tragedy twice. And that means I have to be extra vigilant, no matter what."

"Now that we know better, that don't mean we can keep on workin' with ya without a proper exchange of words however," Vaike adds. "You're a right fine gal and I'm happy to see ya with the Shepherds."

Vaike extends a hand in my direction. I gingerly reach out, hoping my hand doesn't get crushed in his grasp. He catches my own and gives an enthusiastic shake. "Sorry to have acted like I did. No hard feelins, right Robin?"

"Gods, of course not!" I exclaim. "I feel half bad myself for getting mad now that I know what I do. Plegia sucks ass."

"That's the right attitude," Sully cheers. "I'm, uh, sorry too," she mumbles out the last part, almost to the point of a whisper. "Right, apologies done and accepted. No more sappy crap."

"Heh, look at you Sully. Finally letting out some of girly emotions," Vaike teases.

"Says the guy who cried throughout the ending of Sir Turner and the Lost Maiden," she counters rudely.

"Watching Sir Humphrey die in his best friend's arms is the highest symbolism of brotherhood! Those were manly tears befitting the epic portrayal of manly feelings at its finest!" he growls indignantly.

"Crying is crying Vaike. The situation doesn't make it any more manly than a normal cry."

"Says you."

I can't help but burst into laughter at the two's exchange. We just went from super sorrowful to comedic banter in seconds. "You guys are the oddest friends I have ever encountered. How do you even manage?" I ask between bouts.

Sully crosses her arms and leans against the wall, giving Vaike a look both stern yet affectionate. "A miracle."

"Bah, don't listen to her. Deep down she simply can't resist the Vaike's overwhelming charm. She'll keep crawlin' back no matter what."

"You are mistaken, sir. I would much rather come back for Chrom than I would you," she smirks.

"Really, cause I seem to recall he was the one getting rejected back in the day, not I," he counters.

"Woah, wait, what?" I barge in. Did he just imply what I think he did?

Sully groans in frustration as Vaike lights up with glee. "Oh yeah, back in the day our good buddy had a thing for Surly Sully here."

"Shut up Vaike," Sully hisses.

"Are there embarrassing stories somewhere in there? Tell me there are embarrassing stories," I plead.

Vaike cracks his knuckles like he's preparing for fight. "Aw yeah. Plenty. Let me just take a seat so I can regale you a bit."

"And then I'll regale Robin about the time you decided to run around drunk with your small-clothes on your head," Sully threatens maliciously.

"Why not both?" I proclaim, practically on the edge of my seat.

I have no idea how it happened, but somehow it did. Sully, Vaike, and I managed to spend time together in one room wrapped in conversation. It was bawdy. It was bold! It was often inappropriate. But most of all, it was friendly. I peeled back more layers of the onion known as the Shepherds today and saw things I never expected before. It's both new and exciting. When Anneliese finally ushered them out hours later, I couldn't help but feel sad at their departure. But I was left with a good feeling. Things are really going to work out after all, I believe.

Hours later, I'm still up.

Ylisstol is gorgeous at night. With the sun now set and the moon rising high, the city has lit up with hundreds of tiny lights. It's really quite spectacular to see. The fires below are nothing compared to the show overhead. This world's nebulae is something ripped from a sci-fi painting.

I'd never promote this to a child to do, but I maybe might have climbed out the window to roost on the roofing for a better look. The space just outside my room is all flat allowing me plenty of room to sprawl out and admire the stars. Libra pretty much told me after Sully and Vaike left that they wouldn't be accepting visitors for the rest of the evening. And considering supper is over, they left me alone for an early night's sleep. Of course I'm not tired at all and bored out of my mind. Thus, I decided to do a little star-gazing like I did as a kid. It's oddly comforting to do something so familiar. And with the warm breeze blowing in, the night is comfortable enough to sit out.

Back home, you would have to go far out into the countryside to catch sight of something like this. Seeing the white of the Milky Way or the greens of the Northern Lights felt somehow magical. Here, in Ylisse, it's like magic is strung between the stars themselves. The dark tapestry overhead sparkles with thousands of tiny diamonds. Some burn brightly in reds or yellows and I can't help but wonder if those are undiscovered planets that neighbor this world. Whatever they call their Milky Way, it burns white and almost purple in some spots across the horizon. It's breathtaking.

I amuse myself by staring at the stars and dotting them together to form my own constellations. As I noted from my first night here, the whole sky is foreign to me. This world's astral knowledge is unknown to me so I just make up my own. I tilt my head back and trace patterns with my hand.

Hey that one kind of looks like Lucina's mask! I'll name that one in honor of her. I'll have to tell her that next time, though no doubt she'll probably just roll her eyes at me and ask why I wasn't more productive with my time.

My ears prick up to the sound of muffled voices. At first, I think they may be underneath me. I am right overhead a room of some sort based on the windows I can see on the wall beneath me. But as I draw closer to the edge, they get further away. They pick up again when I crawl back to my spot. Are they coming from my room? Oh come on! I was told they wouldn't bother me anymore tonight. This is going to end swimmingly.

I creep back over and pull the edge of the shutter open, peeking in through the side. Immediately I'm hit with Anneliese's enraged voice.

"-suggested to have a guard for the night didn't I?"

"Indeed you did. But how could such a thing have occurred? We are several flights above the ground floor. Surely she cannot have been abducted without someone seeing."

"Well she can't disappear into the air either!"

Libra and Anneliese's voices resonate through the room as they continue to bicker about my vanishing act. Oops. Why are they here though? They said we were closing up for the night. They shouldn't have been back until tomorrow morning. Ugh, I am toast.

I ease the shutter open as quietly as I can and casually pull my legs over the edge, letting them dangle as I sit on the windowsill. Trying to suppress a fiendish smile, I call out innocently. "Who are you guys looking for?"

Two heads immediately jerk in my direction, eyes wide in surprise. I smile and wave casually.

Anneliese flies into an emotional fit as she stalks over. "Naga's holy white bosom! What do you think you're doing young lady!"

"Sitting outside? What are you doing here?" I retort.

"Dealing with a persistent visitor," Libra responds.

A visitor? This late? Well, it's not super late but still.

Before I can question him further, Anneliese latches on to both my arms and slides me down to the bed. "Have you no sense Robin? Sitting out on the roof in the middle of the night? What if you fell? What if you needed aid? We would have no way of knowing where you were at!"

"It's not that big a deal Anneliese. Settle down," I say.

She goes so red her blood must be boiling. Her wrist darts out and her fingers clamp tightly on my nose, giving it a hard tweak.

"Ow!" I curse in pain. My eyes start to water as I clamp both hands on my stinging nose. "What was that for?" I whine.

"For being foolish, you silly thing!"

"Anneliese, you temper," Libra warns once again as he places both hands reassuringly on her arms. "Take a long breath and calm yourself. I needn't be healing you today as well as Robin."

Anneliese shakes him off and quickly readjusts her bonnet. "I'm fine, love." She takes a big sniff of air and exhales. "You best not have hurt yourself some how Robin," she warns as she reaches out and takes my chin.

I wrinkle my nose and make a disgruntled sound of protest like some child getting disciplined. She fusses over me looking me over for who know what. Seriously, what could I have done to myself sitting on the roof. I look to Libra for help but he stands back and lets me sit through her punishing tirade.

Thanks a lot, Libra.

I hear the door latch click and the wood scrape across the floor as it opens. Footsteps signal another person running in. My visitor? "I tried every other room! She's not- Robin?"

Anneliese may be blocking them but I easily recognize the voice. "Hi Chrom!" I wave helplessly from behind Anneliese's form.

"Where in the name of the gods did you find her?" I hear him ask as he walks over.

"Outside," Libra quietly sighs, "on the roof."

"What?"

Anneliese moves to the side, no longer obscuring my view. "She climbed through the window and fancied herself some stargazing," she exasperates.

"You're overreacting. There's plenty of space on the...the..."

Yooooooooo.

...

That's-that's...

Ha. Aha ha. I seriously lost my train of thought there.

So...so hi there Chrom. You, uh, clean up real well. Amazing what some new clothes can do for you. You, uh, really look the part today.

My princely captain is in something far more regal than what I'm use to seeing him in. Sticking with his typical color scheme of royal blue and silver, he's wearing a dark undertunic covered by a lighter surcoat. There's a simple cape draped over his shoulders at just the right angle that leaves his arm and brand exposed. Everything is really fancy pants and accented with these popping gold threads and whatnot. I feel real peasant-like all of the sudden in my super bland ensemble.

Holy crepes woman, what are you, twelve? Stop gawking you lonely Christmas cake.

"There's lots of space on the roof," I quickly finish, trying to cover up my social incompetence.

Chrom stares long and hard at me with an unreadable expression. "You...were on the roof." He says it in the same incredulous way Lucina did when she found out I was really a baker. Like father, like daughter alright.

I let out a nervous chuckle. "I got bored of reading?"

Chrom shakes his head and lets out something between a sigh of disbelief and relief. "Unbelievable."

"Unbelievable? More like unacceptable," Anneliese snorts angrily. "Here we are warning you not to push your limits and you go out to dally on the edge of a cliff-like drop. Where is your common sense Robin?"

"Hey, you all said goodnight. I didn't expect anyone to come back so I went about doing my own thing."

"That's hardly an argument for your actions Robin," Libra politely points out.

"I never admitted it was a smart argument. Just pointing out my line of reasoning."

"My dear, I have half a mind to lock both the door and the window then tie you to the bed," Anneliese warns. "You may have woken up but I think your mind is still asleep."

"Ugh," I groan as I lean back on my arms. "Sheesh. Fine. I'm sorry for making you all worry. No more adventurous shenanigans for the rest of the night."

"Forever," Anneliese corrects me with an authoritative hands-on-hips sass.

"Hmph," I respond.

"Libra, would you be so kind as to let the guards know we're calling off the search. I don't need them waking up the whole kingdom for a false alarm," Chrom asks the other man.

He did what? Aw, crap.

Libra lowers his head and bows slightly. "Of course, my Lord. I will get right to that." He throws me a sidelong glance. "Please take care to mind your actions more Robin. Such reckless behaviour can cause consequences that affect not just yourself but others as well."

Ouch. "I hear you, loud and clear," I acknowledge.

"Hm." He gives a unconnvincing smile and nods once more before dismissing himself.

"You-you called the guards for a search?" I timidly ask.

"Yes," Chrom answers, his tone filled with disapproval. "When we opened the door and found you missing, I had assumed the worst. I feared perhaps whatever had attacked us that night in the woods had come back to finish its mission. I thought..." He cuts off and frowns. "I suppose that doesn't matter anymore given the circumstances."

Crap. Crap. Crap. I goofed up. I didn't mean it of course! How was I suppose to know he was coming to visit. Still, I guess it is my fault I nearly caused the whole castle to go on lockdown. "Gaaah," I groan in disappointment, "I'm sorry. I didn't plan on causing this to happen."

Chrom exhales deeply. "It's fine. Libra will alert the guards to cancel my previous orders. What matters more is that you're safe." He glances to the woman staring disapprovingly down at me. "Anneliese, could you leave us for a while? Considering we've averted our little crisis, I'd like to speak with Robin now before it gets even later."

"You best mean you plan to discipline her right after scaring us silly like that," the older woman corrects him. "And don't you take too long either. You know I'd only change the visitation rules for you and your sisters, Chrom."

Anneliese gives me a stern rap on the noggin that causes me to bleat out in pain again. "You there, don't you be giving us anymore trouble. Hear me?"

She makes for the exit but pauses once beside Chrom. Anneliese pokes him hard in the shoulder and gives him a knowing look. "And you behave yourself young man. You be nothing but a gentleman, understand. You know my policy about leaving men alone with women. I'm only doing this because I know I raised you right."

"Anneliese, please," he counters quickly. "You have nothing to fear."

"I best not. I'm an expert when it comes to boys your age and there's only one thing usually on their mind. Make sure it doesn't happen."

Is she really implying what I think she is. Oh my God, bury me now.

"For the love of...Anneliese, out!" Chrom protests.

As soon as she saunters out, he follows after her and shuts the door with a great amount of force. "I swear, sometimes I don't know what to do with that woman," he mutters.

"She acts real familiar with you," I note based on their interactions. "Is she related at all?"

Chrom pulls over the desk chair and drops into it with a magnificent slouch before crossing one leg over the other. He lets out a great sigh. "You have no idea how much of a relief it is to be able to do this. Day in and day out has been nothing but council meetings in stiff backed chairs."

After he settles in comfortably, he continues. "To answer you question, she is. Not by blood per say. She's my old nursemaid. Lis and Em's too. She raised the whole royal family from birth until now. She's a stout woman with a good heart. Sometimes she's just a bit too bold in her advice."

"No kidding," I snicker. I raise my voice in mock warning. "You best keep your manly urges in check or I'll have to let her know you're being inappropriate for a man of your station."

"Robin," Chrom starts in warning. He stops and just leans his chin on his palm. "I suppose this whole adventure of yours answers my first question. You seem to be doing fairly well for having just awoken."

"Libra handled most of the stiffness and achy joints when I woke up so I feel fine physically, despite their protests to stay in bed a few more days. I still have a voracious appetite though. And let's not start with the boredom."

"Apparently. So much so it forced you to venture out onto the roof."

I roll my eyes. "Oh come on. I already said there's no danger out there. Look for yourself," I say as I turn around and gesture outside.

"Robin, it's the roof," he protests.

"It's hardly a roof. More like a balcony without railings. See?" I argue as I start to climb out again.

"Robin! Truly? Didn't you just tell Anneliese you wouldn't do this again?"

"I lied," I call back over my shoulder as I pull myself through the opening. I rest on my knees and stare at him back through the window. "I'm fine. There's no falling off the edge or getting attacked by Risen seagulls. It's nicer out here anyway. It doesn't smell like dust and mildew. And the sights are a lot nicer than four walls of stone."

"Wonderful, now please get back in the room," he pleads as he gets up from the chair.

"Nope," I grin. "I was perfectly fine out here. I only came in to deal with you all. Technically, you disturbed me since I was told I wasn't getting any visitors. I'm perfectly content with going back to my previous plans."

"Don't make me come out there," he warns in a way I imagine he would his sisters. Totally a bluff.

I scoot back a few inches and start to shift to the side. "Nope," I repeat. "You're welcome to join me out here though. Sounds like you can use a soothing environment to help ease off the pressure of council meetings."

I rest up against the wall in my previous spot and draw my knees up. The symphony of crickets and frogs from the great lake behind us welcomes me back. Yep, this is pretty darn blissful. From the corner of my eye I see Chrom cautiously peek out. He peers around and surveys the space around us.

"Didn't I tell you there was nothing to worry about," I say with the sweep of my hand. "Try not to stomp around though. There's a room beneath us."

"That would be a station for the guards," he says idly as he ventures out a bit further. I hear the bed creak as he pushes off of it to slide onto the windowsill. He looks wholly unsure of himself as his looks between me and the room.

"I'm not yelling over to you. Either get out here or stay in there. Your choice," I say, delivering my final ultimatum.

He ducks back in and disappears. For a second, I think him really gone, but he quickly emerges once more. Chrom scoots the rest of the way out and collapses ungracefully on the stones below. He scrambles to an upright position on one arm and slides along the wall until he reaches my side. He plunks down awkwardly into a cross-legged position. "I can't believe this is happening."

"Don't think about it. Just chill out and soak in the environment," I offer up in advice. "Now then, to what do I owe this unannounced visit?"

"I...apologize for that," he says hesitantly as he tries to get comfortable with his surroundings. "The council meetings have been from morning until after dusk, day after day. Just as one problem is pulled from the table, two more are whisked in. There's been little time to eat, let alone sleep between the debates."

"There's that much trouble in the throne room. I'd think it would be simple for Emmeryn to just decree something and be done with it."

Chrom folds his arms and stares out at the skyline. He looks thoughtful, as if really seeing it for the first time. "That would be nice, wouldn't it. In truth, we have many voices that have a stake in the final decisions when it comes to nation-wide agreements. There is the merchant guild, the hall of Magi, every branch of our military, the craftsmen ambassador...The list runs on. And each faction has their own interests in mind."

"Sounds like a lovely bunch of folks," I joke. So there's some sort of Parliament in effect below the monarchy? I suppose with all their bickering that can put a damper on things. That can't be resonating well with the growing number of concerns they must have coming in. Eh, this is why I hate politics. It's nigh impossible to get a room full of human beings to agree on anything given the multitude of different personalities. I don't have the patience nor the time to want to deal with that sort of thing.

"You need not worry about it," Chrom states. "The state of the economy is not what I wanted to visit for. I came because I wanted to see how you were."

I pull my arms behind me and pillow my head against them. "We already went over this. Libra knocked the bad juu-juu right out of me. Not much else to say."

Chrom finally tears his gaze away from the city below, his face etched with concern. "I'm not just concerned with your physical health."

"Oh? And what's that supposed to mean?" I ask curiously.

"Robin, you were cursed. And it wasn't something out of an apprentice's handbook. Libra's report stated that he hadn't seen anything like it before in our times. I don't know what happened to you that night. One minute you were standing and the next Lissa tells me you start muttering nonsensical things before fainting. I'm simply worried about what may have gone through your mind. Dark magic has all sorts of damaging effects beyond your health."

Ha. There's a ton of things I could tell you right now that are bothering me that have nothing to do with the curse. But that's a can of worms you don't want to open Chrom.

I close my eyes and let out a shaky breath. "I had some bad nightmares. Nothing to worry about."

"Robin. There's no shame in-"

"I don't want to talk about it," I find myself snapping.

Chrom watches me uneasily. "There's a lot of things you don't talk about," he says in a low voice.

I wince. His words are like a stab to the chest. I realize how hypocritical my words seem. Here I go on and on about people needing to talk out their problems and trusting one another, and then I go and say something like that.

"You shouldn't be worrying about me. I'm not the one who was almost killed by a hex," I say in an attempt to steer the conversation away from me.

"You know of that?"

"Yeah. And I'd say an attempt on your life and Lissa's is something far more worth focusing on then my state of mind."

Chrom goes to argue but his words seem to deflate with his desire to argue. Instead, he leans back against the wall and resumes watching the world below us. The sounds of the night mix with those of the castle. A laugh there. The clinking of plates here. A horse whinny from the stables. It's a rather peaceful song combining both humans and nature. A rare instance of the two coinciding in harmony together.

I hear the rustle of clothing and see Chrom reach for something from under his cloak. He pushes it over and it bumps into my hip. I look down and see a dark bundle sitting in the space between he and I. I shoot a wordless glance of question at my companion who promptly looks away in response.

"It's something I brought with today. Look, I won't bother saying anything else," he says. "I know you aren't one for recognition and you certainly don't seem to be in the mood to speak on the events of that night so..." He turns his head away and rubs his nose with the back of his hand. "Just know that, regardless of everything, I appreciate what you did. Whether you intended to or not, your actions saved my life that night. More importantly, my sister's as well. I owe you a great debt."

I gently lift a corner of the bundle, testing its weight. "What's this?"

"It's the only way I could think to thank you," Chrom admits rather shamefully.

"A gift? Chrom, really?" I say in mild annoyance. "I appreciate the gesture but this is too much! Maybe if I saved the kingdom or something but I just walked in and distracted the thing. I didn't even kill it! Honestly, a couple of get-well flowers would have been deemed acceptable."

"Is that what they do where you come from? They give flowers?"

"Yeah, and even that's pushing it in my eyes. A thank you is plenty fine for me." I try to nudge it away but he stops its advancement with his hand, pushing it back toward me.

"Robin, I respected your wishes tonight. So please respect mine and accept this. I want to repay you somehow, no matter how small."

"I...fine," I sigh. It is the proper thing to do I guess, embarrassing as it may be. I pull the thing in my lap, surprised at how heavy it actually is. While I turn it over, Chrom watches me earnestly.

To my surprise, what I had thought to be a wrapped gift is actually a folded piece of clothing. I blink in shock as it unrolls off my lap as I unfurl it. This thing is long! I ease on to my knees and hold it out at full length. I accidentally open it to the back so I flip it around for a better look at the front.

It's...it's a coat. It's MY coat!

Actually, it would be correct to say that it's a close replica of my coat. The shape and clothing cut are the same but it's been tailored with some significant differences. I can see from the light pouring from the window that the prominent purple and gold hues of my own copy have been swapped for blue and silver. The bright purple inlay is now a deep navy blue. I rub the material between my fingers and note how soft if feels. Yet, the coat is just as heavy and thick as the original making it ideal for travel. Also missing are the frayed edges and occasional patch that signified the great amount of usage the original had gone through.

What really catches my eye is the difference in design on the side of the sleeves.

"You changed it?" I find myself saying out loud as I trace the design. The golden eyes Raimi had called out as the symbol of Grima have been completely removed. Instead, a silver brand of Naga sits inlaid over the elbow crease between lines ending at the similarly colored cuffs.

"You remade my coat," I comment breathlessly.

Chrom eyes it nervously in my hands as I shift it around. "You seemed rather fond of your old one but after the incident at the wall, you discarded it wholly. It was odd to see you without it and you didn't seem the same so...Er, that is..." He takes a deep breath and recomposes himself. "I had a new one tailored, one more befitting of the Shepherd's strategist."

The words strike me. The Shepherd's strategist.

As in me. I'm important. An important part of the Shepherds.

Me.

I don't...

Gods, what do I say. I've never...this is...Woah. Just woah.

"I don't know what to say," I murmur in awe.

"I believe one would properly respond with a thank you in a situation like this," he says with a partial smile.

"Cheeky bastard," I chuckle. I can't help but keep tracing Naga's mark on the sleeve. The coat may not seem like much but it is. It's like the symbol of a new start. A new beginning. "Thank you. Really," my voice cracks. "It's wonderful."

"Truly?" he says in surprise. "You needn't say such things to protect my feelings Robin. If you don't find it fitting then I can always arrange it for something else. It was a simple idea I quickly thought up so there's no harm taken if-"

"Chrom," I cut in. "Stop. It's perfect."

"Ah, well, that's good then. I suppose I'm not half as bad a gift-giver as Lissa claims I am."

"Most certainly not. This is bombastic!"

Without a word of warning, I push off the ground and stand. I imagine with proper lighting I could see Chrom pale in fright. I ignore his protests and slide my arms through the sleeves. With a few good tugs, I'm wrapped snuggly in my new coat. And boy, do I feel grand. It fits like a glove.

"It fits better than the original," I exclaim as I pull out the sides, admiring the look.

"Lissa had some good guesses on your size based on the travel coat she purchased in Regna Ferox. The tailors estimated the rest," Chrom responds beside me.

I don't know why, but wearing this is like welcoming back an old friend. A part of me has clicked back into place and it feels right. I do a tiny twirl in place, spinning like Cinderella in a ball gown. Now I feel fancy! Hell yeah! Royal strategist coming through! That definitely has a nice ring to it. Now I really have to step up my A-game. More homework tomorrow for sure!

"I certainly look good," I boast playfully as I hold out each arm to view the pattern.

"Hm," Chrom hums lamely from behind.

His negative response lowers my enthusiasm a little. I twist around and squint. "What's wrong with it?"

He doesn't answer. In fact, he's just staring at me like a lame duck. It's kind of unflattering. "Chrom, you're making a weird face," I tell him flatly.

"What?" he startles. "I, um, right. No, you look fine. It suits you. The coat, I mean. And the colors. Right."

"You're spacing out. Maybe you should get to bed before your brain completely shuts down."

"I'm fine," Chrom protests. "I just pictured this differently in my head." I tilt my head in confusion and he bristles. "Not in a bad way! It turned out far better." His eyes widen at his last comment. "The coat I mean! It looks better and...and we should probably get back inside before Anneliese returns," he suddenly states. Chrom quickly gets up and hustles for the open window.

Okaaaaaaay?

With a resigned sigh, I follow after him. I pull my shiny new coat close to me as I exit through the window to avoid smudging it on anything around the edges. I want to keep this thing pristine for as long as I can. I bounce down on the bed and end up seated next to him. The candles in the room are burning really low. I'm either going to need a replacement or simply turn in for the night.

"That was fun," I throw out.

"Enthralling. Next time may I suggest a legitimate balcony for viewing pleasures?"

"You're no fun," I laugh as I punch him playfully in the shoulder.

"I simply prefer living over Anneliese's punishments."

"Ooo, scary. Sounds ten times worse than Frederick."

Chrom looks dead serious when he responds next. "Frederick's disciplinary methods pale in contrast to her's."

"Okay then! Locking the window shutter!" I declare as I push it shut. I already tempted fate once today. No need to do it again. Unknowingly, I close it in good timing given the visitor right outside the door.

"Chrom, darling, it's been quite awhile now. Perhaps we can call it an evening?" Anneliese shouts out as she suddenly opens the door. As soon as she enters, she pauses upon seeing us. Her eyes shift between us suspiciously before speaking again. "Your clothes are still on so I can't assume the worst yet."

Chrom promptly shoots up from my side and hops away from the bed. Oh. I suppose us sitting that close probably does look awkward. My bad.

"We were just talking," I say trying to reassure her.

"Oh course," she deadpans. She briefly glances at the window and sees it shut, causing her to relax. Hey, what she doesn't know won't hurt her. Or me. Especially me.

Anneliese does a double take when she settles on me. Her mood instantly changes and she bustles over. "Goodness, is this the coat you were telling me so much about Chrom? Stand up there Robin. Let me see!"

"Wha-!" She pulls me to my feet and holds me at arm's length, looking me up and down before turning me sideways.

"Would you look at that! How lovely! Darryn did a marvelous job, as always."

"Thaa-aaanks!" I warble out as she spins me around in admiration.

"Yes, wonderful job," Chrom responds as he comes to my rescue, gently prying her away before she twists me into a nauseous fit. "You said something about leaving?"

"Silly me, getting caught up in the moment. That I did. You have that meeting early in the morn with Lady Phila so you best be heading off. We don't need another honey related accident happening again, do we?"

"Honey? Incident?" I question.

A Cheshire grin breaks over her face. "Why yes! There was this one time when Chrom was only wee-high to a corn sprout when he-"

"Anneliese, no." Chrom commands as he starts to push her to the door. "Do not speak another word."

"I certainly won't if you leave fast enough. You're not the only one who needs good rest," she says, gesturing with her head toward me. "Be out quickly, hear me?"

"Yes! Now out with you," Chrom cries in frustration. He opens the door for her and waits patiently for her to exit. She throws me a look that clearly says 'another time.'

"As soon as he leaves, you blow those candles out and get under the covers. No more silliness, Robin."

"Yep," I wave.

"Alright then. Sleep well Robin. Libra will be staying in the healer's quarters tonight which is right down the hall. Don't hesitate to call if in need."

And with that, she's gone along with all her terrible childhood secrets.

Chrom eases the door shut before pointing rather menacingly at me. "Do not ask me about the incident."

I hold up my hands in surrender. "Got it."

He sighs and then leans on his side against the frame. "I do suppose I should leave though."

"Probably. Those council meetings aren't going to wait for a oversleeping prince."

He drops his face in his hand. "Do not remind me." Chrom briefly rubs his eyes, then straightens up. He reaches for the door handle and pauses briefly before turning back to me. "I really did mean it when I said thank you earlier. Whether you choose to accept it or not, know you have my gratitude for the lives of myself and my sister. I know the coat may seem enough for you but if there is anything I can do for you, just ask."

"What if I asked for a pony?" I throw out.

"A pony?"

"Yeah, all girls love ponies. What if I asked for one?"

Chrom regards me warily, as if waiting for a joke. "I suppose that could be arranged though I'm not sure how that would be utilized best. A pony is not ideal for travel arrangements."

"Fine. What about a dragon?"

"Find me a manakete that would gladly give you a ride and I will happily arrange it."

Dammit Nowi, where are you when I need you? "Okay, okay. Sorry, I'm just pulling your leg. Thanks though. If I ever need a favor, I'll let you know."

Something ticks in the back of my head. I had been thinking of it as an idle thought before but I wonder...It wouldn't necessarily be a stress inducing activity and it could elevate some boredom. I do feel like I still own these guys personally for taking me in so...

"Actually, I do have a real request," I quickly throw out.

"Oh?"

"I was wondering if you wouldn't mind me taking over the kitchen for an afternoon. There's this recipe I've been dying to let Stahl try..."

A/N: This chapter was difficult to write. I wanted to take Robin out of her comfort zone and force her to grow even more. As the last chapter showed, one of her flaws is her simplicity. She may not realize it, but she subconsciously avoids growth. She choses to avoid recognition and new faces, thus stagnating her life and her own abilities. Heck, her whole life revolved around four people. She grew up with her mother, only to move in with her best friend as an adult. Never once did she try to explore the horizons and see what else she could be beyond what she already knew. Ylisse is forcing her to see that. It may be jarring, but it'll be good with her in the long run. She's even learning that it's fun to discover new talents and friendships! That's how life is though, one long evolving journey. Hopefully that came across well! As always, see you next chapter!

Review Responses -

Kokyou Konran - Alas, poor Libra's curse continues on even in real life. As I wrote that, I wondered how many people would immediately think of him when he first appeared, hence the tiny clue with the shoulders, ha ha. He's a classy guy though. I really like writing him! If all turns out well, Robin should have some one-on-one with Lon'qu next chapter. Yay! Thanks again for sticking around and reviewing! Every bit helps!

A Shadow's Lament - Anneliese is one of those intended one-shot characters that accidentally grows on you and won't let go. She'll probably be back at some unfortunate point in the near future with embarrassing stories. As for the dark magic, yes it's pretty bad. I figured that while elemental magic is more physical in its damage, light and dark magic primarily assault one's mental/spiritual side. That means it can do some pretty vicious stuff beyond the normal fair. Plegia's dark mages should be feared for a reason! I hope Robin's talk with Chrom satiated your wish ;)

faolae - Goodness thank you! I always freak out when I give another piece of the puzzle hoping it's received well, so I'm glad I've got you on the edge of your seat. Prepare for more! It's going to be a grand story with plenty left to keep you guessing! Cheers!

timewastin - Indeed, poor Libra! Such is his fate. Thanks for stopping in to read again!

Guest - VODKAAAAA!

Titan127 - First off, thanks for taking time to review. I always dig a little feedback. As for your comments...yes RobinxChrom would be weird at this point. They just met not that long ago. Unless we're riding the love at first sight train, which we aren't, it's not a certain thing at this point in the story. Hence why Robin is being a nice friend and trying to help drop hints for Sumia. Robin was also joking about the B-rank thing as a reason for locking the door. As for Morgan/Marc, she is and is not what you may expect. The timeline's gone to hell so not everything is as it was in the games.

Guest - Hell yeah for Olivia love. Proudly called her wife once in my game and definitely the queen several other runs. Cordelia's pretty swank to though I like her best as my winglady, male or female avatar. Good tastes you got there.

Guest - Aw, thanks! I do my best to breathe a little life into everyone. I want to treat every character the same because they are all important to the story. That's why I love character driven stories :) Ooo, Henry. Heaven help me when he appears. That's going to be something else. I also can't wait to see how Robin handles that, ha ha. Thanks again for the kind words!

LeonPianta - But I need them! These second gen children need to be born, gosh darn it! I have this insane desire to do a one-shot for them now though. As for Libra, he is the man! I intentionally wanted to bring him in a little earlier. While he's certainly good at his healing, he'll definitely be swinging that axe around later. For sure!

When the Moon Met the Sun - What a pretty user name. Reminds me of some old myths I once read. I'm happy to hear you enjoyed it so much. It means I'm doing something right as a writer! I did try to make Robin something different from the usual fair. She's a bit older and wiser than some others of her archetype and yet also has just enough snark and humor to keep her likeable. I always admired underdogs and find their evolution into heroes by the end to be the most satisfying reads. I never expected so much interest in the "shipping" aspects of the story given its adventure roots but it's rather fun to write now. I only came in with four pairs, two of which have already been shredded and reborn into new pairings, so the rest will be a surprise to perhaps even me. Sometimes the writing just guides itself toward things :)

BrowncoatJedi - Yep, there was a smidgen of angst in there. I tried not to be too excessive on it though. Death is a natural part of life and even those her age sometimes encounter it, prematurely unfortunately. Good catch with the Risen. It is mysterious, isn't it? Why indeed kill them in such a way? And why only knock out Robin? The mystery deepens further! OooooOoooo! Thanks for the lingo flashback. I had a bad craving for the nineties and found my old CDs. I have to laugh at your PS. I'm still surprised at the following those two have. It's endearing. Continue to ship away my friend!

whovian18 - Thanks for reviewing! Yeah, those crazy anomalies are a bother aren't they. Lucky Robin has metaknowledge on her side! Hooray! Ooo, that is a weird grammar bug. Amusing though. No, she does not mean she "owns" them all. It should definitely be "owes." Looks like I have more cleanup to do, ha ha.

Guest - Ha, thank you. The reviewers help point out errors but I also go back once a week and try to clean up. It's mostly grammar errors now thank goodness XD Much as I'd love to, I'm not sure if GregorxLon'qu can be a thing. It's wholly tempting but I'm not sure I want to break canon that much. If Robin doesn't end up with one of the Shepherds then maybe it's possible? I need to do a recount of men vs women. And thanks for the error report. I'll look into it!

TheGiantRock - Thank you and nice to hear from you again! Aside from character development, originality is my number one goal for this story so I'll keep rocking it out! Robin's had her time to adjust so she's definitely pulling on her game face. War's a brewin' so she certainly needs to get smart! I hope to make her utilize her position as a strategist the best I can, since that is what she is first and foremost. Time will tell of course!