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

Warnings for copious amounts of feels. Can you handle the fluff?!

Chapter 16

"All right troops, the time has come!"

I pace back and forth looking my soldiers in the eyes. "Each and every one of you has been handpicked for this most important mission. It is one that requires skill, precision, and determination! We will be facing down the very flames themselves today, but we cannot back down. The lives of many are counting on us today."

I stop and twist on my heel standing straighter than a pole as I face them head on. "I can't say how long this mission may take us nor how safe it may be. I'll be honest, we're facing the unknown today. With no intelligence to go on, we can only be so prepared. Our supplies may be limited but-"

"Inventory was concluded upon the last eve following our supper. The storerooms are fully stocked."

I whip my finger out and point it at the offending solider. "Did I give permission for you to speak, recruit? Do not interrupt your commanding officer! I have half a mind to make you run forty laps right here and now!"

Frederick's eyes narrow and his jaw sets hard. He looks ready to kill me.

"Aha ha ha, I'll forgive you just this once," I squeak out in horror. My voice dips as I try to get back into character. "Anyway, as I was saying..."

"Today will require you to use everything you've ever learned on the field. You'll be called upon to use your strength, your creativity, and your intuition! There's no guidebooks to hold your hand through this mission kiddies! This is real deal. So pull up your pantaloons and steel yourselves because we have a mission to complete!"

"Are you ready?" I shout as I throw my fist in the air.

A singular burst of applause and a light cheer greet my rousing speech. I look to my troops and see Sumia at the forefront clapping enthusiastically with a big smile. Her neighbor, Stahl, looks surprised at her actions and raises his hands halfway before looking around at the other occupants. Seeing their ambivalence, he is stuck between following Sumia's example and theirs.

Frederick, looking wholly unimpressed with me, stands resolute with arms behind his back. He mercifully stands between Lon'qu and Sumia, blocking him from her side. The swordsman himself doesn't look ready to bolt just yet, but he does keep throwing both Sumia and I uneasy looks every so often. Poor guy. I suppose my occasional creepy leer doesn't help the situation.

I blow a stream of air from the corner of my mouth and slouch forward. My fighting spirit floats right out the window with my seemingly empty words that went in one ear and out the other among my fellow Shepherds. I hope this isn't a sign of the day to come.

I look at the four people before me and hope that I made the right choice for helpers. Well, technically three. Frederick demanded he be here to "preserve the structural foundation of the mess kitchen and maintain sanitation amongst the consumables." Or, translated: to make sure Robin doesn't destroy the kitchen in the process of cooking. Glad to see that trust is still well placed. Nah, I kid. He'd probably say the same thing for anyone else.

It's been three days since I was finally released from the care of the healers and two more before I was finally granted access to a kitchen. Not the kitchen, just a kitchen. The one conjoined to the mess hall approximately. Anneliese's draconian sister threw a fit when word came her way of my request to borrow the kitchens for an afternoon. The old fuss-budget hissed and clawed about handing over her kitchen to an untrained nobody (excuse YOU?) and refused to serve food for the rest of the night until her way was gained. Someone managed to compromise and I ended up with the less stocked, less equipped kitchen here. Luckily, today is some sort of national holiday meaning most guards are on leave. This whole wing will be quiet and undisturbed for the day.

It's...not as grand as I was hoping. I may not remember everything yet but apparently I still retain knowledge from a college elective on medieval kitchens and culinary. And, from what I remember, the official kitchen is probably what I was expecting from my textbooks as opposed to this.

Ylisse seems to be more advanced than early medieval life because they've got fireplaces and a rudimentary plumbing system. From the looks of the mess hall kitchen, I have a prediction that this may have been the original before a newer and more advanced one was built closer to the main hall. The fireplace here looks like it was hastily assembled from whatever stone they could find around. One wall received an equal treatment, probably once an open area where they did the baking before building the proper ceiling shafts to let smoke out.

I can't complain though, it could be worse. The whole left wall is one gigantic cooking area. The major spans of it is a fireplace built back into the stone with a long metal shaft running the length of it to hold pots and whatnot. Built in next to it is an open oven resembling those you'd find in a pizzeria that baked wood-oven crusts. That's where they bake the bread. There's ample table space in the middle and back of the room with lines of neatly assembled utensils. I'll admit, some of the tools look more like torture devices than cooking implementations. Funny how even this equipment has evolved over time.

There's a set of doors on the adjacent wall, one that leads to the pantries and another that leads down to a miniature brewery. Everything I'll need will most likely be in there. Thankfully, Frederick was kind enough to bring me a list of their stock the night before so I have a good idea of what we have. Too bad I have no idea what some of this junk is. Sneedweed, Warblewax brew, Coiffish...You got some green eggs and ham to go with that Dr. Seuss? Sheesh. Luckily the amount of food I am familiar with outweighs the unknowns. Speaking of, we still need to assemble all the goods.

"Lieutenant, bring me the battle plans!"

"Right!" Sumia nods as she fishes out our food list.

The list is comprised of suggestions the Shepherds have for dinner tonight. Suffice to say, nothing was in common with the others. I have venison and chicken, pie and cake, salad and fruits...No solid theme. So I looked to my helpers and we all picked different choices to commandeer. I'm bringing forth the splendors of home by bequeathing upon this world only the most majestic dishes available: PB & Js, spinach and ricotta ravioli, and some mother-luving peanut butter brownies. I'm also tag teaming with Sumia on the dessert pies. Not too bad overall. The worst of it will be making the ravioli and peanut butter. Apparently peanuts do exist here! No body eats them though. They feed them to pigs! Blasphemy! I'll show them the proper way to treat a peanut, or Shellets as they call them here.

I quickly start delegating duties and responsibilities as decided earlier. I have the master list of dishes stuck at the head of the table with a knife for all to see so we can keep track of things. Last night I tried to make a table with estimations on prep and cook times for the different dishes so we could stay on track and cook everything without one conflicting with the other. On anything I was unsure of, I consulted with Frederick for advice. He was surprisingly impressed with my organization skills and actually dropped a wry comment about it before pointing out how several of my prep times were grossly inaccurate.

Oh Frederick, you big, loveable pain in the ass. What would I do without you?

Time burned magnificently as we chopped, washed, and seasoned the different plates as needed. It was a pleasant experience as we chatted aimlessly about things here and there. The conversation never steered toward current events, only lighter things, which I'm grateful for. I want today to be about nothing but good food and friends.

The most fun to talk about was trying to explain food from my own world. Technically they just assumed another culture and continent. Same deal I guess. Either way, it was hilarious trying to explain things like ice cream and hamburgers. I think Sumia invented a new shade of green when I tried to explain casu marzu.

Somewhere down the line we ran out of flour so I went to retrieve some from the back. Upon returning, I emerged to a much louder kitchen. Yelling isn't really Sumia or Stahl's thing and Frederick didn't look mad as he stirred his bowl of whatever. That left Lon'qu, but he had withdrawn into himself early on and all attempts at socializing were met with brief quips or silence. It couldn't be him.

I kick the door shut behind me and haul the bag the rest of the way. With a puff of white, I manage to drag the sack onto the counter. As I wave away the cloud, I notice something very odd about the scene before me.

"Sumia, why are there extra heads in my kitchen?"

The pegasus knight lets her head fall to the side and she exhales. "I'm sorry but they insisted they have some time to cook too."

What the...?

Sully, Vaike, and Chrom have usurped the far end of the center island and are a huddled around it glaring daggers as they arrange their respective tools out.

"I can't believe you'd even try to do something like this without me!" Sully seethes as she slams down a bowl.

"It's a rather impromptu challenge, Sully. We didn't really plan for it," Chrom offers in reconciliation.

Vaike is arranging a number of knives I don't feel all too safe with him having around his plate. "Eh, we'd have come got ya at some point."

"I guess I can't fault you both. You'd need a head start too knowing how bad your asses are gonna get kicked after I'm done with you."

And another argument begins. It sounds like a cooking contest. Is this some enhanced version of Vaike and Chrom's B-support? Come on guys! Save it for another day! I'm busy here!

"They're getting loud. Are you sure it's a good idea to keep them in here," Stahl says as he leans over the counter for some spice. He gazes worriedly at Sully. "I don't think it's very wise to let them near the kitchen."

"Don't worry Stahl, I'm sure it will be alright. After all, aren't you rather curious to see what our Capta- I mean comrades are going to make?" Sumia states, her eyes never leaving Chrom.

"That's exactly what I'm not curious about," he sighs. "In fact, that's what I'm afraid of."

"It is best to leave them be," Frederick throws out as he walks by with an armful of vegetables. "To interrupt that trio while in such in a state would be a grievous mistake. Simply let them be and we shall hope the competitive urge wears down."

"That's fine," I moan. "Just keep them over there. As long as there are no more interuptions then I'll-"

The main door opens and Lissa dramatically bursts in, hands waving wildly. "I'm heeeeere," she belts out in a sing-song voice. Her messy curls are hidden under a cute baker's bonnet and she's decked out in a stylish pinafore over her simple yellow dress. She looks like an adorable little chef! Too bad I don't need another.

Before I can protest her arrival, the princess bounces over and latches onto Frederick's arm. "Hey Frederick! Where do I start?"

"What." I say flatly.

Frederick bows his head in apology but looks hardly shamed as he speaks. "Beg pardon, Robin. Milady was rather upset to learn she was not part of primary baking roster. To acquiesce her tears, I promised she may become an aide of sorts while we prepared the main dishes. This was before recent developments came to light," he adds while gesturing towards the trio at the end of the table.

"Yep! I'm gonna be the best helper ever! You won't regret it!" she cheers.

God, I can't kick her out now. That'd be the equivalent to kicking a puppy. "Alright, alright. Whatever. Just stick to Frederick and - Oh hells no! Don't you dare!"

I bolt over toward the chocolate squares for my brownies which are currently being conquered by a certain blue haired prince. My wooden spoon is a blur as it comes down hard on Chrom's hand.

"Gods!" he exclaims in pain as he immediately withdraws, cradling his troublesome hand with the other. He pouts and throws me an accusing stare. "What was that for?"

I wave the utensil menacingly at him. "Do not. Touch. My Prep Food."

Vaike and Sully both burst into laughter and wound his shattered pride even deeper.

"Really? Over one chocolate?" he sulks. God, that is one magnificent sulk. I almost feel bad. There is guilt but the desire to protect my sacred ingredients is even greater.

I turn around and see Sumia and Stahl staring wide-eyed at what I just did. The gravity of the situation hits me like a brick. Oh boy. I just manhandled the crown prince of the realm. Frederick is going to kill me.

We all instantly turn with worry to the knight. To my surprise, Frederick actually smiles. Wait, is that possible? No wait, never mind. It's more like a devilish grin. It's scary.

"Well done Robin. 'tis most improper for one to snack before a meal. Especially on sweets. An aptly placed punishment."

"O-oh. Swell," I say, my voice growing small.

Frederick nods and pulls Lissa away to where they can start working on the beef stew.

"Anneliese is worse than that?" I grimace as I comment to Chrom. But when I turn to the side, I find he's already gone. So is one of my chocolate squares. The little sneak is all the way on the end again and contentedly chewing on the stolen goods. He gives a smug wave and returns to whatever it is he's working on.

"You devious kumquat!" I growl. I pick up a piece of bread next to me and roll it between my palms into a tight ball. Reeling back, I let the thing fly. It bonks into the middle of his forehead with a harmless thump. He blinks in surprise at the assault and then breaks into laughter.

"Robin, can you help me with this crust please?"

I lift my forefingers and point them first at my eyes, then to Chrom before rushing off to aid Sumia. We need to get these pies started soon. Most of the prep work is done and the dishes are soon to be ready for baking. We'll have to time cooking these little beauties in tandem with the rest of the meal so they don't sit out too long. No one wants a cold pie if they can help it.

Aside from the kitchen being a lot louder than before, things go relatively smoothly. With three quarters of the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches already primed, all I need to do is make the peanut butter itself. So, I can hold off until later on that. Same with the brownies. They just need the peanut butter mixed in and they'll be ready to bake. I hope they do well. I've never used a stone oven before. In the mean time, I focus all my effort on the pies and making the ravioli. Rolling dough and molding it as you need to is both fun and time-consuming. Having to cut in the shapes can take a long time depending on quantity and size but I don't mind shaping and laying it out.

I'm surprised at how different Sumia and I's pie crusts are. As I look at mine, I realize how rather blah and commercial it is. I've got butter, she's got lard. I use white sugar and she's got brown. I'm so busy eyeballing her own that I nearly cut my pinky off.

Apparently I'm not the only one eyeballing the pie. Stahl wanders over and casts a wanting gaze on her pan as she starts dolling in the creamy insides.

"Is that what I think it is?" Stahl practically states in awe.

Sumia smiles with pride as she works. "Mhm. I'm making a Dawnbell tart. I was hoping you'd try it and tell me what you think."

"Of course Sumia." The poor guy already looks like he's drooling at the mouth. "Sheesh, I haven't had one of these since I last saw my family at the autumn harvest last year."

"I know! That's why I thought it would be perfect to make today! Consider it a big thank you for all the help you gave me this past trip in regards to both the floral and baking tips."

Stahl's ears grow red and he lets out a bashful laugh. "Well gee, thanks Sumia. I'm looking forward to this more than ever." He offers her a shy look of questioning. "Is there anything you need help with? I'm almost done with my work so it wouldn't be a bother to offer assistance if you need it."

"That's alright, I have Robin here to hel-"

The bowl of cinnamon conveniently slips to the floor by my feet. "Oops! Silly me! Seems I dropped the cinnamon. My bad. Looks like I'll be busy getting more. I'm sorry Sumia, guess I can't help after all."

"But..."

"Yep, gonna take a long time to fill that bowl. Why don't you take my place Stahl. I'll be back soon. Hopefully, within the hour. Day. Cinnamon is crazy like that," I keep saying as I back away. "Good luck!" With a satisfied smile, I quickly bustle away.

That smile is immediately wiped away. How the-? There's even more people in the kitchen! Vaike's somehow wrangled in a very stoic looking Miriel to help with his dish, a fact that Sully is loudly protesting to. Across the way I see Virion chopping up carrots while chatting to Lissa on the barrel beside him. At this point, the only one missing is Kellam. Oh, wait.

I really look hard and stare around the room. There he is. He's hanging in the doorway. The poor guy peeking around the corner looking unsure on whether to come in or not. No point not to considering the whole brigade is now here. I holler out his name and wave him over. Kellam's face lights up when he hears me call him and he walks in with greater confidence.

"Hi Robin. I noticed everyone's gotten involved in the cooking today," he greets with a hint of strained cheer. There's a lot of emphasis on 'here' and 'everyone'. I get the picture Kellam.

I pat his arm twice in sympathy. "Don't think you weren't invited Kellam. Most of these blockheads just invited themselves in. There was no plan for anyone to be here but myself and a few helpers."

He looks a little relieved as I deliver the news. "Oh. Well, I'm sorry. Is there anything I can do to help? Or would that only make things worse."

"No! No, of course not. You can, um..." I turn my head about looking for something he could do. My eyes settle on the island in the center of the room. "Ah! You can mix my Shellet butter."

I quickly retrieve the bowl and spoon combo, thrusting it into his arms. He looks down at it with a wary expression. "So I should just stir?"

"Yes, just keep at it. I need it to have a smooth texture. It'll always be a little grainy but get it as smooth as you can. If you have the stamina for it, really dig in there and work it. It's pretty thick but it's super important I have it done."

I intentionally add that last part in and am rewarded with a beaming Kellam. Poor guy seems so elated to be doing something important for once. Cripes, that's kind of sad. Either way, he jumps right into it driving that spoon to work. I hope he doesn't break the bowl in his enthusiasm.

"Robin, can you grab Stahl's biscuits?" Sumia calls out in warning.

"Shit! Coming!" I yell as I bustle over to the oven. I pick up a rag and twist open the metal door to a face full of smoke.

I sputter out a loud "Pfffft" and I blink the haze from my eyes. Don't tell me they're burnt! Please kitchen gods! I waft away the rest of the smoke and see the buns sitting with an extra dark crust starting to form at the edges. Okay, not bad. They're a little dark but not horrible. We can save these! I reach for another rag and remove each one to cool by the open windows.

"Non, non! Sully, my dashing chef! That is not how one cooks!" Virion shouts in horror behind me. I swivel around in time to see him latch on to the cavalier's arm to prevent her from bringing down a meat tenderizer on an egg.

"Holy mother of God," I say to myself in disbelief. This is a bloody nightmare. "I think I need a minute to breathe."

I follow the wall and duck through the nearby doorway. I slam the door behind me instantly shutting out the noise. The muffled chaos grows softer and softer with each step back I take. I let out a sigh of relief as the quiet of the stony cellar envelops me. Peace at last.

Who'd have thought that such madness would have followed me today? I expected a quiet day of cooking! It was my mistake to let in anyone else. That just opened the floodgate and you know what they say about too many cooks in the kitchen.

My foot thumps into the corner of one of the crates and I drop on top of it, easing my weary muscles. I grab my left elbow and begin to stretch out the cramps that have been forming from the constant work of today. I would never have thought it to be so hard to make half this crap without the convenience of modern equipment. It's taking me double the time to make anything! I miss microwaves and blenders.

I lean back on my arms and stare around the storeroom. Most of the spices are stored in here giving it a rich, aromatic atmosphere. The smell of the cedar shelves mixes with the heavy scent of nuts and I find myself just wanting to run my hands through the different drawers. It's a weird baking kink I've picked up. There's just something about feeling the different grains slide over your fingers that makes you want to start baking. I want to grab a handful of it and throw it all wizard-like into a pot. BAM! Tasty food!

Speaking of, I forgot the cinnamon bowl. Oh well. We'll live.

My eyes roam over the labelled drawers. Again, some of them are familiar. Nutmeg, coriander, allspice, garlic cloves...I have to laugh to myself when I notice that salt it missing. Probably locked away in the royal treasury. I guess some things don't change even when in another world. If I even dared ask for any someone would probably throw me in the dungeons. What I wouldn't give for some so I could make some french fries. Mmm. Salty, salty french fries.

Speaking of which, look at that! A sack of potatoes! Actually, didn't Frederick complain about a lack of potatoes for his stew not too long ago? I thought I put Lon'qu on peeling duty? I haven't seen him in a while. Huh. Well Frederick does need those potatoes. Maybe I'll take a break from the crazyness outside and ready up some for him while I'm in here.

I push off from my spot and walk over to the bag propped up against the end of the unit. Now that I think about it, it's funny that there'd be a sack of potatoes in the spice area. Did someone leave it here. I'll have to let Frederick know so he can return it to the proper place. In the mean time, I'll just grab one of these here and-

Someone grabs the top potato at the same time as I do. I look up in surprise to find Lon'qu's equally confused face looking back at me. The second he realizes it's me, his dark almond eyes open wide. He emits a disgruntled sound of alarm and drops the potato like it's infested with maggots. I have a weak grasp of it on my end and the sudden fluctuation in weight causes me to juggle it between my hands before pulling it tightly against my chest.

Well this solves my missing potato peeler. Seeing him now, I notice that he's set up some sort of nest amidst the barrels and bags. Three bags of potatoes and a basket of discarded tomato skins are arranged around him. I'll take a stab at it and say Lon'qu snuck in here after the rest of the Shepherds came to work in peace. Smart move.

"Um...hi?" I say awkwardly in greeting.

Lon'qu tenses up and watches me warily. He manages a tiny tip of the head and mumbles, "Robin."

"I, uh, think I stole your potato," I say as I push the veggie out toward him.

His eyes flicker down toward it and his mouth presses into a firm line. There's a mild look of disgust on his face and he turns away. "Keep it."

Lon'qu proceeds to grab a new potato and picks up the peeling knife at his side to resume work again. I stand in silence and stare between him and the outstretched offering. Well this is weird.

The seconds tick by and Lon'qu briefly peeks at me from the corner of his eye. The even trail of peel that is spiraling off his potato starts to get a little larger and thicker as he digs harder into the inner meat of it. "You need something else?"

A date would be nice.

What?! No! Focus!

I bite down hard on my tongue and try to hold back the stem of untoward thoughts threatening to form. Instead, I shuffle over to a crate opposite him and plunk down on it. "I need some potatoes," I say dumbly.

"Then take some," he says while nudging a nearby basket with his boot. Inside I can see a plethora of skinned vegetables.

"Oh." I stare at it blankly realizing I have nothing to say against that. Darn. I roll my potato in my hands. "So, did you come in here to hide from the craziness too?" I throw out in an attempt for conversation.

Lon'qu finishes with his current project and lets it fall idly to the basket before extracting another. "Too loud and too little space."

"I hear that," I agree. I wait for him to continue talking but only the sound of the knife scrapping on potato skin answers me. This guy is a tough nut to crack. Not enough to stop me however!

"You're really good at that," I throw out, hoping to get his attention. I have to suppress a giggle really hard from rising up when his gorgeous eyes connect with mine. He's attractive even when he looks like he wants to stab me with that carving knife.

"What are you going on about?" he growls in exasperation.

"Peeling. You're good at peeling potatoes. It's a great skill to have, at least I think so. I'm a wreck when it comes to skinning things. I usually rip off too much losing half of the meat in the process. I can never get it close enough to the surface so I end wasting a ton. It's a killer on the coin purse in the long run cause you waste more than you eat." I'm rambling. Badly. Time to rein it in a little.

"It's a good cooking skill," I finish with.

Lon'qu's eyebrows furrow together and a corner of his mouth dips down. I think he's trying to process how insane I might be.

Okay, change of direction. "So anyway," I start anew,"how are things? Do you like Ylisse so far?" Considering I haven't seen him for a week and some days, I have no idea what it's been like for the guy.

He slides off more peel and chucks the potato for another new one. "It's too warm and there's too little wind. Your plains feel stagnant and the air smells like a sheep farm."

"Ouch, okay then buzz kill. Nevermind," I say, reeling from the sting. "How about the Shepherds though? Are you starting to feel more at ease around them? You looked rather out-of-place when we first left."

"I am as well one can be in such circumstances," he grits out. "Now is that all?"

He looks really uncomfortable right now. Ugh, wait to go Robin. You are doing exactly the opposite of what you wanted. I bet he's feeling claustrophobic with me half a foot away. I rise to my feet and take a seat halfway down the row.

"Feel better?" I'm practically shouting down the length of the room.

My response is a long, hard stare. And more silence.

Okay then. Taking surly to a whole new level aren't you Lon'qu? Eh, I can't be bitter about it. The guy has no idea who I am or who any of these people are for that matter. On top of already being quite the stoic, a hot stoic mind you, I didn't expect him to be easy to talk. The guy won't magically open up to me and pour out his heart, no matter how badly I wish I could be that special snowflake. Time to get crafty.

Watching him cutting up vegetables gave me an idea. Extracting a tiny knife still in my apron pocket, I start digging into the potato in my hands. I carve out two eyes, a hole for a nose, and a real poor excuse for a smile. There's some dark seeds next to me so I take the potato and try to get them to stick to the top of it. After rolling it around I extract it, satisfied with the makeshift hairline.

"Did you ever try whittling?" I toss out as I pluck a tiny end from a nearby broom off.

"D-don't you have food to attend to?" Lon'qu stutters back in frustration.

"No. Now answer my question."

He breathes in deeply through his nose, as if trying to contain his annoyance. "I have not."

"Well you should. I think you'd be good at it. It could stave off the boredom if you ever have nothing to do. The way I see it, how you handle that knife with cutting could come in handy with the sculpting. You've got control over your pressure and power so you could probably do very well in crafting. Maybe carve yourself a little something to remind you of home?" I clap my hands together. "Ooo! You could make a bust of Basilio's head! That way it's like he's right there with you!"

"What would that accomplish?"

"You don't sound too happy to be here so it could remind you of home?" With the straws sticking out of the sides, I finish my masterpiece by tying the blue rag in my pocket around the bottom.

Lon'qu tenses up as I walk back to where I had previously sat. Instead of reclaiming my seat, I put down the potato and then walk around the corner of the row.

"What...?"

"It's me!" I exclaim from behind the shelves. "But I'm not a woman anymore. I'm a potato! Now we can talk without you looking all pent-up and constipated."

Utter and complete silence. Well I thought it was smart...

"See how useful whittling is? And potato peeling? If I had your skills, you would probably be talking to a far better looking version of potato-me."

I hear the crate Lon'qu sits upon creak as he shifts. "Your prince spoke to me of your group's current rankings. He claims you hold the title of strategist, is that true?"

"Yeeeees?"

I'm not sure what to categorize the sound that comes out of Lon'qu after my response. A snort of disgust? Amusement? Disbelief? "A peculiar choice," he quietly muses afterward.

"I said the same thing. And yet here we are. Funny how fate works."

"It has a poor sense of humor then," he mutters dryly.

"Hey now. Keep talking like that and potato-me won't want to be friends anymore."

The conversation is interrupted when I hear the echo of the lock click as the door to the storeroom opens.

"Robin, is that you?" Sumia's voice echoes through the tiny space.

Nuts. Just when I was maybe making progress. "Over here Sumia!" I call out in response.

I hear her footsteps get closer. "Robin, where have you been? I've been looking for you forev...forev...um."

Whoops, I should probably exit potato mode. I emerge from around the corner and wave. "Hello."

"H-hi there," she stutters while eyeing the creepy voodoo version of me. "Oh, and hello to you Lon'qu," Sumia greets politely to the man sitting next to her. She timidly steps closer to me offering him as much space as possible. In response, Lon'qu eases slightly and nods in greeting.

"Sorry Sumia. I got lost looking for the cinnamon." Fantabulous lie alert! "What's up?"

She fidgets in place, playing with her fingertips as she draws into herself. "You should probably return. You see, your ravioloes...raveeohlees were done and then..."

I feel heart skip a beat. "What happened to my ravioli?" I ask, my voice low and cold.

Sumia takes a big breath and then begins to ramble. "Well, see Stahl was trying to take them out of the pot when Sully and Vaike started arguing over the apples, but they started tugging at the bowl and no one saw Kellam coming with the water barrel, and then the bowl tipped and apples spilled and Kellam tripped on one causing the barrel to fall, which then caused water to get everywhere and the fire to go out, and that caused smoke to go everywhere and-"

I jerk up and grab the pegasus knight by the shoulders. "The ravioli, Sumia! What about the ravioli?"

Sumia draws up her shoulders and looks away. In a meek voice she responds, "The pot tipped and they all fell into the soot of the fireplace."

A high-pitched pitched wail of despair emits from deep inside of me as I push her aside and run for the kitchen.

"MY BABIES!"

My cheek rests on my palm and I stare forlornly at my plate. I push around the heaping stack of mashed potatoes and twirl them into some sort of mushy mountain. The rest of the plate is bare and I let out a forlorn sigh.

My...my beautiful pasta. They're all gone.

The ravioli isn't the only thing missing. A number of other Shepherd dishes are missing as well. Chrom's goulash knocked Vaike flat on his ass and Vaike's salmon and wine sauce dish smelled so pungent that no one could get near it. As for Sully's dish...we won't speak of that. We'll just say she was clearly not the winner of the contest.

Everything else turned out for the most part. My pie was a bit of a disappointment when stacked up to Sumia's tart. That sucker was long gone before mine was even a quarter empty. I'm okay with that though. I can admit defeat when need to. I still have my cakes though! That's a bake-off for another day!

On the bright side, my peanut butter dishes were awesome! God bless, I finally managed to civilize these poor barbarians. I have brought forth the holy goodness that is peanut butter upon this world. Watching Stahl's eyes light up as he experienced the wonder of the magnificent PB & J sandwich was the greatest experience of my life. The next best experience was watching Stahl try to tell me how good it was and watching him struggle to speak with the peanut butter in his mouth glueing it shut. Utterly excellent. The brownies did just as well. I managed to get a good mixture of both the sweet chocolate and salty peanut butter creating a delicious combo. If I closed my eyes, I could almost see my bakery again.

I would call dinner a success after recovering from the few mishaps. It's what I wanted to happen. All of us together chatting and enjoying life freely from the pressing matters beginning to grow by the day, even if for a few hours.

The night turned to a bit of a surprise when half way through Chrom decided to dub this the official welcome party for Virion and Lon'qu into the Shepherds. Apparently while I was out, Chrom decided to promote Virion from "we-feel-sorry-for-you-have-some-mercenary-work" status to "hey-you're-okay-want-to-hang?" rank. And Lon'qu is just all around shiny and cool so why not.

Of course all this complimenting was too much for Virion's ego to not say something and he hijacked Chrom's speech half-way through for his own. After the first few lines I lost interest and began shoveling as much food into my stomach as I could before the rest of it was devoured. Bad decision because next thing I know, Virion is gently pulling me up by the arm while a chicken leg hangs from my mouth.

"None of this would be possible without our lovely hostess this eve! Should we not have a word from the mastermind herself," he croons. "Should we not raise our glasses and share the motivations from behind this affair amongst ourselves?"

"Whath that?" I choke out.

"Come, come Robin. You must!" Virion states as he pushes my drink into my hands. "It is only fitting that we end this most fabulous affair with words from she who imagined it." With a flamboyant twirl of his hand, he backs away and leaves me the new center of attention. All eyes are now on me and I can only gawk in horror right back. Ooooh boy. This is bad.

Lissa jumps up from her chair and launches both arms in the air. "Whoo! Go Robin! Speech!"

"Ah ha ha, yeeeah. Speech. Right." Man, this is crazy. My palms are starting to sweat!

"Ain't that hard Robin. Just say we're the best bunch of mates you could find, thank everyone, and then we drink!" Vaike throws out in support as he lifts his frothing mug.

Oh yeah, that'd be so easy if I could even find my voice. I think I swallowed it. Alright, just find your center. Say a few random things that sound good together and then hide your face behind a chicken leg for the rest of the night. Okay, deep breath. Here we go.

"Right, so..." My voice warbles from flat to a high-pitched squeak before coming down again. I clear my throat and try to ignore the few chuckles coming from around the table. I try to rack my brain for something to break the ice. A witty-one liner. A joke. An awkward story. I'm flatlinig. I can't come up with a single thing. Damn it! Time to wing it while I try to think of something.

"So this is really weird for me," I begin. "I've never really done something like this before. Well, at least that I'm aware of. I guess it's funny. Considering I'm suppose to be a strategist, you'd think I'd be the type to be charismatic and good with leadership stints like this."

I chuckle darkly at my own mistfortune. "Unfortunately, I'm not. Hells, I'm not all that great at much period. It wasn't that long ago that Frederick was helping me pitch my first tent, probably one of the simplest things to learn." My eyes meet with the knight's for a brief moment and there's a look of understanding in them. How far we've come from that moment to now. It feels like an eternity.

"I, uh, owe everyone here for something, I'm sure. Some of you sacrificed your own time to teach a poor amateur like me and was almost set on fire in return. Others simply stuck around to be nice and nearly got drowned because of it." My eyes drift over Miriel who carries the tiniest of knowing smiles, and then to Sumia and Stahl who are both clearly being reminded of that adventure we had searching for wild rosemary on the trip home.

"But most of all, I owe this lot of you my life. I can't imagine what I would have done if I hadn't been lucky enough to stumble into you all. Or over, depending on how far I was sticking out in the road." This time I look over to the royal siblings seated at the far end of the table. Lissa hangs off her brother's arm beaming with the toothiest grin I've ever seen. Chrom's smile is far gentler but no less emotive. I can tell he shares the same sentiment. He's glad I'm here.

"Incidentally, this is why I wanted to do this dinner today." I pause and collect the right words before continuing on. "This isn't just a way of me saying thank you. This also a celebration. It's a, um, celebration of you, the Shepherds." Gods, I hope this is making sense to them. "You all sacrifice so much for this country so it only makes sense that once in a while you receive some sort of appreciation back, you know," I try to smile with a tiny shrug.

"Backgrounds may clash and ideals may differ at times but you all still manage to rise above it and pull together at the end of the day." Sully and Vaike both exchange looks then share a subtle nod of acknowledgement with me. "You all know how to look beyond borders, class, and standing. You range from loud and proud to quiet and unassuming." I pan to the two beside me where Virion stands with hands on hips and chest out, while Kellam seems to waver in an out of shadows with his tiny plate of peas. "Yet when it comes to heroics and acceptance, you are all the same." If Virion were a manga character he would have erupted into shoujo sparkles with the pose of confidence he exhibits. More importantly, Kellam seems to straighten up and look more assertive when he notes I'm speaking to him. "Whether a veteran member or new recruit, we're in this together." I'm looking at you Lon'qu. Hey! Don't look away!

I reach out and fumble with my cup, holding it with both hands because I'm shaking from my nerves. "S-so the point of this horrible speech is such, today is for you guys. As thanks, as appreciation, and as a celebration. Vaike is right, the Shepherds are the best. It's a crime that it's not said more often. You're a mismatched bunch or royals, scholars, and commoners, but you're the best damn heroes Ylisse could ask for. That I could have asked for. You're an example few have been able to even wish of achieving and I hope the dream of the Shepherds never dies."

I raise the cup in a traditional toast but find my eyes stuck on the wine inside. I'm so embarrassed I can't even make eye contact. "So I...er I guess that's that? You guys rock and deserve all the best. So, cheers?" I can't help but wince, waiting for the laughter geared toward my speech. I get laughter alright, but not at me. I dare to look up and see nothing but happy faces.

"Hells yeah! That's right," Sully grins as she throws up her own cup. She's got an arm around Stahl's shoulders and the two cavaliers exchange a tap between the two vessels.

"Hear, hear," Stahl crows merrily.

"A most stunning display of eloquence, my Lady. Les mots, l'émotion...ah mon cœur! How it trembles!" Virion sighs dramatically as he drapes himself over my shoulder. "You are a poet of the highest order."

"Virion..." I groan as I try to peel him off of me. "Please."

"He's right though," Sumia chimes in sweetly. "That was lovely of you to say such things. We're very glad to have you with us too!"

Something slams into my waist nearly knocking Virion and I over. Two thin arms wrap around me and a mess of blonde curls gives way to Lissa's blushing face. "GROUP HUG!" she sings.

"What?" I exclaim, startled.

"Alright! That's somethin' I can get behind!" Vaike exclaims. He wipes his mouth with the back of his hand before thumping his mug down on the table. "The Vaike's pumped with energy and feelin' the love!" Without warning, he turns and scoops an unassuming Miriel out of her seat.

The woman's face goes white as her book and hat go flying, wildly grabbing for her glasses as they nearly slide off her nose in the process. "What madness? Vaike, cease and desist this most raucous behavior!"

Vaike just laughs louder and carries the squirming mage over. Miriel could honestly be trying harder to get away but isn't going for it. In fact, I'd dare say she looks rather comfortable in his arms, well as comfortable as the nigh emotionless looking Miriel could. Looks like somebody made up with Vaike while I was out cold last week. That's cute.

To my surprise, Sumia gets up from her chair and grabs Stahl by the hand! "Come on Stahl!" she exclaims as she pulls him up.

The cavalier looks startled and glances uncertainly back at Sully. "O-okay?"

The redhead just flits her hand at him and gives a cat-like grin as her partner is carted off to join the mess of limbs coming together. Sully doesn't have much time to gloat to herself before Chrom walks around the table and pulls her up by the shoulder of her sleeve. She lets out a heavy growl of discomfort as she's dragged into the fold.

"Frederick, you're not exempt from this either," Chrom calls out to the disturbed looking man in the corner. He sets down his tea cup and looks cooly over.

"The impropriety of the situation-"

"Stuff it and get over here Frederick!" Lissa hollers.

Frederick looks as though he's swallowed a barrel of pickle juice. Despite his sour expression, he calmly takes the napkin from his lap and places it on his plate. Rising stiffly from his chair, he stomps over to the edge of the group and merely places a hand on Virion's shoulder. Eh, good enough.

"Don't forget Lon'qu!" Lissa blushes. "He's technically a Shepherd now too!"

I turn my head and see the stoic swordsman trying to covertly sneak out the back door of the common room. An inch or so more and he would have been free. Sadly, Frederick's grip is long and he clamps down on the man, drawing him just close enough to be considered part of the group. Lon'qu delivers the man a seething look but Frederick's stare is scarier still. It practically screams 'we suffer as one.' Welcome to the Shepherds Lon'qu.

"Hey, don't forget Kella-aah!" Before I can finish, I can feel myself rise slightly off the ground. Kellam's two strong arms wrap the throng of people tightly together and up in a fitted hug. He hums happily in approval as the group's laughter fills the air and envelops us in its warmth.

Honestly, right now, there's no place here or on Earth I'd rather be. This feels right.

This feels like home.

Well I can't say I didn't try. I wanted to help with the dishes and clean up but I got booted straight out by the staff and a very disgruntled head of the kitchens. Anneliese is right, that sister of hers is a harpy. I've never heard someone squawk so loud before. I think my ears bled a little.

I gratefully slam the door shut behind me just as what sounds like a pot slams against it. Crazy witch.

The mess kitchen isn't that far from the Shepherd quarters so the walk back is fairly short. I move through the darkening corridors where a few servants scurry about lighting the hall candles. I carry on around them with relative ease, thankful all that food has started to settle. I practically clawed my way to the kitchen earlier. It felt like I had swallowed a ton of lead.

I turn a corner and enter the familiar corridor leading to the common room. Most of the Shepherds are still hanging around there last I saw. Virion got a card game going between them that was pretty heated last I saw. They were betting with whatever they could find: forks, rocks, you name it. I'm also sure Lon'qu barricaded himself in his room as soon as dinner ended. He probably thinks the Shepherds are insane. He's probably right.

I slip in quietly through the door and am greeted by a slew of foul language and bawdy jokes about Naga. Yep, still gaming. As much as I'd love to join them, I'm feeling rather tired from today's events. There was a lot of running and lifting involved so my muscles feel exhausted. I follow the wall to the opposing door trying to stay inconspicuous. As I reach for the knob, I hear a rising groan of frustration as someone wins the current hand. I look over my shoulder and see a poker-faced Miriel politely put down her cards sending the rest of the group into a fit. Not a wise thing guys. Miriel's smart. She's probably counting cards and doing some mathematical formula crap to ensure the odds end in her favor. I'll have to make a note of joining her team whenever we have a card game.

The hall goes quiet as I shut the door behind me. The sun is just at the right angle above the castle walls that it's filtering in through the windows, bathing the tight hallway in the fiery hues of the sunset. It highlights the rather eclectic assortment of decorations that signify each room's inhabitants. Sully's has armor and weapons propped day in and out next to it as attendants repair and drop off new ones as needed. Miriel's door is singed at a corner and the handle stained with ink spots. Vaike's is made of mismatched wood planks and sits at a funny angle. It's little things like this that aren't in the game that make me glad I'm experiencing now. Little tastes of who these people really are. It's fascinating.

My footsteps leave a lonely echo as I walk down to the last room on the end. I pause at the closed door and stare at the empty area around it. I wonder what I could do to add my own personal touch? That's worth pondering.

The door opens with ease seeing as it's unlocked. I really need to ask for a key so I can ensure some privacy. Tomorrow maybe. I kick the door shut behind me and let out a massive groan as I stretch. So stiff!

My tiny hovel is about as bare as it was when I first came here. Disappointing, but hopefully soon to be rectified. Sumia is really eager to go shopping for those curtains and I wouldn't mind picking up a few more personal touches along the way. And some new clothes. Please! I'm tired of wearing the same thing everyday.

I'm no aficionado on medieval home decor but I'm hoping I can find something. Maybe a painting for the wall? A new rug? Books? Definitely books. I need color though. something that could match my future curtains and the planter on the window.

Cliche as it is, I do love purple. I wouldn't mind that and some other neutral colors to accent it. Maybe some silver an-

Planter on the window?

I swivel and stare at the pot sticking out like a green sore thumb against the sun's rays. Where the hell did that come from?

Shrublock Holmes is on the case! Time to investigate the case of the mysterious plant! I walk around the end of the bed and pick up the tiny thing. I turn the pot in my hands and admire the details. Holy cow, this thing isn't the crummy clay one I had at home. This is quality porcelain! Expensive probably given it isn't as mass-produced here as it is where I live. It's painted really pretty too. Purple and blue spring flowers wrap around the length of it, entwined with little green leaves.

The budding plant inside of it is merely a few leaves sprouting from the dark dirt. I take a tiny whiff and am greeted by the thick natural scent. Aw yeah, earthy. I have to wonder what's growing though. I might not even know given the differing flora of Ylisse.

Question is, where did this little bugger come from? I glance out the window expecting to see a gardener who had just set the fellow down before planting it. No such luck though. It's just me and the swaying flowers outside.

Ah, but what's this! A piece of paper on the windowsill! A clue perhaps? Realistically though, it was probably resting by the plant. I readjust the planter in my arm and ease open the two halves of the note. Ten bucks it's a love letter from Virion.

Wow, what flourish in the handwriting! I push it into the light for better reading and squint a little to make out the few words penned on it.

A belated get-well gift. Forgive me, but it was the best I could do on short notice.

- Chrom

You know that moment when your brain explodes and you just start mashing keyboard letters to make a point at how nonsensical you are feeling at that moment? Asdfasdfas? Yeah, that's happening right now.

I lower the note and then read it again just to make sure I'm seeing this right. Did he really just do that? I want to die. I just...Really? When I said the other night that people bring flowers as a gift, I didn't say it was a necessary cultural exchange of importance. Apparently he seems to thing otherwise. Chrom's been trying real hard to make me feel more at home but this...Oh Naga, help me. I don't know what to feel.

I can just imagine that poor man running around the market trying to decide what to grab. He has all the flowers in the world to pick from and he takes a bloody shrub.

Oh gravy.

I put a hand to my cheek and feel the burn from all the blood rushing to it. I'm struggling between screaming and laughing out loud. This is utterly ridiculous and endearing.

I may not know how to feel, but I do know what to do. It's only polite to respond back, though I don't know when I'll see him next after this given the meetings start again tomorrow. I should at least leave a note for him letting him know I found it. I walk over to the desk where the extracted remains of my writing materials lie.

I've only used the ink and quill combo once so my writing is pretty abysmal. There's a few ink splots here and there and the writing is really shaky. I manage to scrawl out my message though.

It's a girl! The proud mother is happy to welcome baby Bobbette into her home!

Yes, I shall name her Bobbette. Little sister to a proud Bob back home. For added emphasis, I take the ribbon Lissa bought for me back in Regna Ferox and tie it around the base of the pot. There we are, pretty and perfect. My little Bobbette.

I suppress the urge to laugh at my own horrible humor and instead blow on the ink to dry it faster. Then I give the paper a good waft in the air before carrying it with me out the door. I heard from reliable sources that two doors down our respective captain keeps a makeshift office and bed for late night work. Counting the doors down, I reach the one I assume is his. I quickly slip the paper under the door and then scurry back to my room. I really hope that was the right room.

I scoop up my precious little bud and curl up with it on my bed with one of my strategy books. Things are going to get disgusting here real soon as I start to make kiss-y faces and coo with it. Weird, I'm fully aware of this. With a mother allergic to cats and dogs, plants and rocks were my pets. Hence the bizarre attachment. It could be worse, I could be a crazy cat lady.

The sun sets and time goes by as I read about assessing landscapes and manipulating army weak points. Riveting stuff I tell you, sarcasm hint hint. As I close the window shutter to keep out the encroaching evening cold, I hear the door at the end of the hall slam open. A plethora of voices erupt in sing-song fashions and yells as the formerly awake Shepherds begin to retire for the night. I roll my eyes and wonder how drunk some of them are. Pretty bad from the what some of them are hollering. Blessings that my next door neighbor is Kellam. I'll have peace tonight at least.

The sounds eventually cut out to more muffled ones as everyone takes their individual parties to their rooms. It's about time.

I look up in surprise when I hear a soft knock at my door. It couldn't be...

I slide off the bed and answer it, peeking through the crack. Wow, I hadn't expected my note to be found until tomorrow morning at least. Is the walk back to the royal wing that bad?

The door opens the rest of the way and reveals my gift giver standing with note in hand and a bemused expression.

"Bobbette?" Chrom inquires incredulously.

I lean against the frame and keep the door open with my opposite hand. "Well I can't go and name her Bob. That's her brother's name."

"Is that right? A girl plant."

I nod with assurance. "Absolutely. Wait here." I quickly retrieve Bobbette and present her forward, showing off her magnificent hairpiece. "See the bow? Obviously a girl."

Chrom hides a smile behind his hand and simply shakes his head in silence.

I twirl Bobbette in my hands and suddenly feel very shy about the situation. "Thanks for the plant. Reminds me of home," I say.

"Good, that's what I was hoping for. I know it's not much, even with the coat and all but..." He trails off with a glance to the side, unsure how to continue.

"Is that what this is about? You feel like you still owe me somehow?"

"No! Well, yes. Sort of," he startles. "More so a belated get-well gift. I felt rather callous when you said you traditionally receive flowers where you are from as a sign of well wishing for your health."

...

"You had mentioned having a preference for lavender once but the only ones I had been able to locate so quickly were in the garden. The gardeners would not allow me to take any in accordance with something pertaining to the beehives so..." He looks off to the side and musses the back of his hair. "I then remembered you speaking fondly of that plant of yours so I had thought, well, that is..." Chrom breaks off into a nervous chuckle. "I found you a plant," he finishes lamely.

...

That. Is. Adorable!

I quickly put down Bobbette and grab the front of his shirt with one hand. I see a brief look of confusion on his face before I catch him around the neck with my other arm and drag him into a hug. I'm glad my face is hidden cause I'm super red in embarrassment.

"You are a magnificent nerd, you know that," I sputter between light laughs. "Stupid, magnificent nerd."

Chrom initially stiffens from shock but eventually relaxes. There's a light touch on the small of my back and I can feel his breath on my ear when he snorts. "Coming from you, I'll take that as a compliment." Ha, he's smells like paprika and failed goulash.

Is it...is it weird that this feels so comfortable?

There's a loud pitched whistle that catches my attention from down the hall. I peek with one eye and see Sully leaning out of her doorway staring at the two of us. Oh damn. I throw her an unkind gesture with my hand. Alight with jittery nerves, I quickly push away and hold Chrom out at arm's length. I clear my throat and try to avoid his face. "Right, so good hug. Platonic hug. Totally awesome."

"Um, right," Chrom agrees in an off-tone as he blinks rapidly. He catches sight of the snickering redhead down the way and frowns. "Oh."

I nearly fall over in my haste to pick Bobbette off the ground. "I, erm, yeah. It was really sweet of you to do this. Thank you."

"No need to thank me," Chrom replies as he waves off Sully. She quickly disappears back into her room with the spear she had been retrieving. "Don't mind her. She's a pain some days."

"I imagine."

Chrom suddenly straightens and puts on a more serious expression. "You are aware council meetings resume tomorrow, right? I won't be readily available to meet for the next few days so if there's anything you need then pitch it to Frederick. If it's not within his authority then he can pass it on to me if need be."

"Speaking of, did you get my request for access to the library?" I inquire.

"That I did. I spoke to Miriel and she's agreed to take you there. She has some scrolls she needs to grab before her trip to Fort Balsard anyway."

That's new. "A trip? She never told me about that."

His hand retracts to Falchion's hilt, grasping it nervously as he speaks. "It's not one I'm keen on allowing but there's a necessity behind it. A border guard managed to subdue and capture two live Risen. Miriel has expressed interest in-" he chooses his next words carefully, "examining them."

He means dissecting. She going to experiment on the poor zomboids.

"That could be good. I hope she'll be alright though. The roads are starting to sound worse everyday," I worriedly point out.

"Miriel is a powerful woman. There's no doubt in my mind she can handle herself. But, for precaution, I've assigned Vaike and her apprentice to travel with them."

"Apprentice? Miriel never mentioned she had one."

Chrom offers a wan smile. "Unofficial. Ricken's a young lad but he was dead set on joining the Shepherds. He has promise so I did what I could."

Oh my God I forgot about Ricken? Where's that kid been? I suppose that's cool though. It's good he'll be backing her up with Vaike. I could wait until they get back to meet him. "How long will she be away? She's still giving me lessons you know," I ask.

"Unfortunately, not soon. She predicts a few weeks of testing. Maybe more."

Oh. Oh no. That's bad. That is very, very bad. Ricken needs to be here. Like at the capital. He's supposed to save Maribelle when Plegia appears. What if this goes down while he's away?

Before I can protest, Chrom looks over his shoulder at the darkening sky outside. "I should probably go. It's an early meeting."

"Ah, right. Probably should," I force out. I'll just worry about this tomorrow. Hopefully Lucina gets her slow tush over here so we can figure this out. "Uh, goodnight then?"

Chrom looks as if he wants to say something but changes his mind. "Good evening Robin."

Instead of immediately withdrawing, I lean against the frame and watch him disappear back into his room. He actually stops in his doorway as well and peers back. Chrom looks surprised to see me still there.

Actually, so am I. I let out a hysterical sounding chuckle and wave before ducking backward as fast as I can. I slam the door shut and lean back against it sliding down to the floor. I breathe out a huge sigh and stare down at my plant. That was odd.

I manage to get back on my feet and deposit Bobette on the stand next to the bed. It's as good a place as any for her right now. It doesn't take long to shake down and slip in for the night. I light a candle and let it burn while I try to read myself to sleep. I find it hard to do so however.

Every time I try to read a sentence, I find myself going back and having to read it again as my thoughts wander. It's not about the future or anything like that. Either my eyes drift over to Bobbette or I'm thinking about Chrom's eyes or the smell of paprika. What the hell.

What is wrong with me?

I-I'm just gonna sleep this off and feel better in the morning. That'll do it. Hopefully.

A/N: You have no idea how much research went into this chapter. So. Much. Research. I changed Robin's menu eight times at least. I wanted her to invent BBQ sauce soooo much but it would take forever! The theme of the chapter, by the way, was establishing the barracks as having a real feeling of home. All of these nerds are just one big strange family in a tiny rock box. Go team! Go food! Now excuse me as I dig a hole to bury myself in. I'm dying from fluff. Too much fluff.

Review Responses -

faolae - Moar SumiaxStahl? Wish granted! As for Plegia, there is certainly diversity. In the case of Sully and Vaike, their whole view is colored based on the very few interactions they've had with Plegia. The pre-existing hatred between the rival countries doesn't help either. Most commoners and even some of the merchant folk are decent people simply trying to make a living. On the other side of things, most Plegians are scared shitless of Ylisseans thinking they're warmongering zealots who will burn anyone who doesn't follow Naga at the stake. There's a lot of propaganda still poisoning the minds of folk and that's a hurdle everyone will have to overcome at some point.

Guest - Exactly! Why go around wearing the same uniform as your most hated enemy? Aside from friendly fire, that's just bad for morale! I sure wouldn't want to be caught dead in that thing ever again given what it stood for.

Chasticot - Well thank you! Glad you've enjoyed it so far! Your review cut off though! Is Vaike too bro? Too silly? Feel free to let me know. I take criticism very seriously, especially about characteristics. Libra and Robin was something I considered. I think he'd have a very good understanding of her struggle with her past and alleged secrets. They're a lovely pairing. Unfortunately I'm railroading myself into another pairing... Thanks again for reading!

A Shadow's Lament - Just one hug you say? Surely that can't be too difficult to add...And then one thousand words later I have a new ending to the chapter. I hope you're proud of yourself. ;) That was the most not platonic scene I've written yet. Warm regards to yourself and thank you again for your wonderful reviews!

whovian18 - Thank you! The cooking chapter was something that came about in one of the earlier chapters when Robin declared she had to invent peanut butter. Maybe she'll try macaroni and cheese next! Ha ha, and ship away! Nothing wrong with that!

timewastin - I suppose at this point it's safe to say so. Yes, Robin is going to abuse that power to an extent. Despite Lucina warning not to, Robin's the type of person who's not going to leave an advantage unused. Both her foreknowledge and what she learns as a strategist will come into play. I've rented several books from the library for study purposes so don't be surprised to see heavy artillery and seige warfare amongst the humans. Maybe some creative magic too? The question to this however is what ramifications will follow as she tampers with the plot as her alleged counterpart did? Hmmm.

Titan127 - Thanks for stopping in again! Good luck with school! As for Anneliese, yep she's a bit scary when she has to be. How else would she have raised three royals to proper adulthood without a few tricks? Poor baby Lucina. Just you wait kiddo.

Guest - Oh ho, is that a monocle? Classy indeed! I'll try to get around to the story one day. Everyone has their dirty or embarrassing secrets that have to get leaked, right? Ha ha!

Isodrink - Holy guacamole! Wow. Just wow.

Thank you. Wholeheartedly. I wish I could offer you a just as elegantly worded reply of thanks but I don't think it'd properly be conveyed through words alone. I'm always thrilled when someone can nitpick, pull apart, and analyze the deeper characters aspects occurring. I do try to make everything count, whether it be an action or conversation, in some meaningful way. My writing mantra is that even the small things count. Writing the way someone holds their drinking cup or conveys a look while speaking can tip the reader into a whole different emotional realm with the right wording. I could start a whole essay in itself on character development and adapting them to paper but that's would take all day!

In addressing your "highlights," I couldn't be happier in your choices. In terms of favorite moments, aside from the whole fight in Arena Ferox for creativity reasons, those were my favorites to write. Crafting the breakdown between Frederick and Robin required painstaking precision and buildup but was required if I wanted to honor the game's portrayal of the two. Lucina's chapter was indeed necessary primarily for her characterization because I wanted everyone to know she is not the same as the game. She's been through a hell I wouldn't want on anyone numerous times and it's sapped her. Robins' observant but not enough to convey the true tragedy underneath Lucina's psyche right now. I wish I could have had more build up for Vaike and Sully's scene as Frederick's had but much of their interactions occurred behind the scenes of the bigger events. For what I wrote though, I'm proud of it. It accomplished what I wanted in character as best I could for them.

As for everything else, I'm just as proud. I love dropping little shout outs to past games for older fans and easter eggs for the giggles. New pairings and bizarre twists to keep things fresh. I love writing and I love this game so I do what I can to make it the best it could be. Now with that long rant out of the way, I will say this once again: Thank you so much for your words. It's a pleasure writing for you all as much as it is for myself. The best of weeks yourself!

When the Moon Met the Sun - Thanks! Sully and Vaike's conversation with Robin was integral so I put a lot of effort into making it seem as genuine as it could between the three of them. A little more comical than imagined but I can't see it any other way. Chrom and Robin will talk shop later, of course! Chrom made a jab at expressing his frustration with Robin keeping a lot to herself and refusing to open up to him more. As for the new coat, glad you thought it was nifty! I love the idea myself and it's a super important symbol of trust between both Chrom and Robin. Hurrah for growth and good fashion sense!

BrowncoatJedi - Ominous foreshadowing, indeed? Perhaps an idea of how he may have perished in another time? I wonder...

I'm glad you liked the interactions. My personal headcanon is that the three of them have the most epic of bromances. There will be tales, ala Arthurian legend, about these nerds. As for Robin, she did have a subtle class change but not to Grandmaster. That's for waaaay later when she's got mad skillz. Instead, she's more like Donnel promoting up into a legitimate Fire Emblem class. She's gone from a trainee to a solider finally. Also the coat is symbolic of her becoming her own Robin. No longer is she under the shadow of someone else. She's finally come into her own and is establishing a unique presence all to herself. Yay symbolic imagery! And in honor of nineties, I wrote this entire chapter under the influence of the Spice Girls, Smashmouth, and Nirvana. Nineties forever!

Luafua - Hi there! The kind words and review are much appreciated! Robin's a blast to write. She'll certainly have a great sisterly bond with both Nowi and Cherche! As for Tharja...oh my. That'll be something, ha ha! As for pairings, all I can do is shrug and hope people like them. I thought I had them locked in for the most part but things change due to review feedback or my own brain-storming. There was a twist of Sumia and Stahl in here though so I hope you liked that!

In regards to last chapter, I'm glad it tickled your fancy. It's always a pleasure to see a chapter be able to strike a personal chord in a touching way. Star gazing is indeed a wonderful pastime and a great means of catharsis for one's mind. The name irony is funny though! It's a good thing you have a resemblance to her as opposed to someone like Excellus.

Once again, thank you for the kind words! I appreciate you taking the time to give this a try and sticking with it! It's always a pleasure to talk to new people!

NephyrisX - Greetings and thank you very much for the compliments! I did try to make this different and as real to life as possible. Hence the immediate getting trashed, suffering a blue screen of death, and then vomiting on the main character's shoes all within the first two chapters of the story. True to life. XD

I purposely avoided describing physical traits because some readers like imagining their own thing, even their own MC according to some reviewers. Which is fine since this is first person and that's maybe easier to relate with? If you'd like a description of my canon then I have no problem describing that.

On a related note, Robin looks like the original one of this world, not the poster one with white hair and pigtails. She's actually more akin to matching the Morgans and Validar since family resemblances and all. So without further ado:

From an in-game creator sense, she is body type 3 but with a much smaller chest, maybe akin to 2? Her hair is a modern short bob with bangs, imagine however you'd like, and the same dark brown/borderline black Validar and the kiddies have in the official art. She's pale and burns to a crisp in lots of sunlight, hence the need for the constant heavy coat and hood. Um, let's see...Round face, straight nose, thin lips, and wide eyes. Unlike original Robin's dark brown/greyish color, this Robin's is a very vibrant and light brown, almost amber I guess. I don't know, I'm looking at my rock collection as a reference. She's got a very expressive face that betrays all her emotions, hence why Miriel points out she's a terrible liar and Lucina notes that she's easy to read.

I have no idea for clothes. She's wearing something new with the new coat to distance herself from the old wardrobe. You can imagine for yourself there cause I'm terrible with medieval fashion.

So there you have it! Hope that filled in the gaps for you!