Cycle

by RoseWarden

Robin is a young woman who bakes cakes during the day, sleeps at night, and drinks on weekends. She does not wage wars, fight demons, or solve dating issues. Yet, somehow by divine mistake, she's found herself doing just that. Clearly, someone has her confused with another Robin...

24. Chapter 24

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

Warnings for violence and blood

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Chapter 24

Well this is off to a great start.

There are three key notes I'm seeing as we emerge on Lissa's supposed position. One. There is a gigantic magical barrier separating a good half of the entrance hall from Nethys' forces forefront. Behind it stands one seriously smug looking Grimleal priest. Two. There's already bodies lying on the floor. Great. And third-

"Lissa!"

Chrom's horrified shout rings through the air piercing each and every one of us with his own fear.

Lissa's blue eyes flash toward us. With an arm twisted around her back and an ornate dagger pressed to her neck, she can only stare pleadingly at us from under her captor's grasp.

"Nuts," I moan.

And third: Lissa's currently captured and in Validar's grasp.

Something in my stomach sinks as I stare at that man. I can't even wrap my head around the prospect of it. My, or, Robin's father. Faaaaatheeer. Huh. I never imagined actually sincerely saying the word. It's weird. Like speaking another language. My father. In a sense. This is other Robin's anyway so, by extent, mine.

Validar is every bit as accurate to life as one could imagine him from the game. Tall, haunting, sinister. A wiry and snakelike frame draped in rich robes of grand fashion. Dark oiled hair that's slicked back and sitting well against his gaunt face. He exudes villainous mastermind.

Maybe it's because of what I know but I can't help but look for similarities between us. I'm not disappointed. I can pick out little things. Frightening things. Features that could correspond with my own. His height and thinner build. The same hair color. A similar nose. I can't help but shiver. It's uncanny how some things seem so alike. It's also very unnerving. Does that mean that in my world, my dad was that world's equivalent of Validar? That would be ironic but it would certainly explain why my mom wouldn't speak of him. If I found out my significant other was as much a lunatic as this guy was, I'd take my kid and run for the hills too.

Still though. Ugh. This is just freaky. I don't want to think about this anymore. He isn't my dad and that's what matters. Also the whole holding Lissa hostage thing. That's not cool either.

"Your Grace!" Nethys startles in alarm from across the floor. Numerous bodies behind her turn in unison, faces alight in relief and then worry. "Halt your advance! Move not another step!"

Emmeryn immediately stops and holds her hand out to stop those of us behind her.

"I see, Captain."

"Gods above," I hear Frederick exhale in quiet horror. "The princess."

Lissa shouldn't be over there if she was still under guard. But she is, so that brings up the question. Where's Lon'qu?

I brush past the crowd and start to frantically look around. Please don't be dead. Don't you dare be dead. I will go to the afterlife and drag your fine self back if I have to. I swear on it!

As I look around, someone calls out my name. Lucina's familiar voice greets me as she takes a hold of my shoulder. "Robin, you made it!"

"Marth, you're alive! Naga's ass! You don't know how relieved I am to see you. I-" I pause and realize I was just about to hug her. Cause that wouldn't be weird. I quickly retract my hands and stare off and away from her confused stare. "Um. Right. You're alive. Good."

On to more pressing things. "What happened? I thought everything was suppose to be under control."

"There is too much to tell and too little time to do so with the circumstances as they are. All I can say is Validar gained the upper hand over us all thanks to an untimely appearance by an old friend of yours."

"That being?"

"The rider you claim to have met before," Lucina confesses dimly. "She is back and working with the Grimleal. Her true nature finally reveals itself, just as I said."

That's hard to hear. I'm serious. I don't want to believe it. She saved me and she's only been super sweet and helpful. But it is true that I know nothing else about her. Don't they say to always 'Beware the nice ones'? Still, something deep inside says she isn't my enemy. This is so conflicting!

"Can you explain to me what happened? Is everyone alright?"

Lucina closes her eyes and looks pained as she recounts the events. "The others are fine though we sustained some injuries."

"Your cousin?"

"No. Owain is the healthiest right now though this sudden turn of events has rattled him." She considers her next words, then speaks. "Laurent and Nah are with us as well. I presume you know of them."

The girl in the alley must have been Nah. And the fellow with the hat Laurent. Hm. The thought of him being here is strange. That means somewhere down the line Miriel is going to procreate. I find the idea both fascinating and horrifying.

"Well the rider-"

"Does she have a name?" I blurt out.

"Why do you ask?"

I honestly don't know. The sudden urge to put a name to the face became very great just now. Maybe I'm just tired of calling her "the rider." Heck, I know her mount's name, but not her's. We've got a bit of a history now and it just feels wrong not to know.

"Humor me."

Lucina makes a face but continues. "She often goes by many names, both fierce and odd. But her true title is far less fantastic."

"And that is?"

"Marc."

I quietly repeat the name. It feels strange to say.

"With a 'C'. That point is very important for some reason," Lucina says with little amusement.

"Marc," I say louder. "That's a boy's name."

"I truly could care less what kind of name it is. It belongs to the enemy and that is that. If I may continue, I believe I was saying that she and her dragon were-"

"I thought he was a wyvern."

"He is not. Wyverns have only two legs. He clearly has four."

"I could have sworn..." Wait. I grab both of her shoulders and lean in close. "He's a dragon."

"Yes. He is."

"So he's a manakete."

"I...yes. I suppose that is strange for you. They are a rare species to encounter."

"So she's a dragon rider, not a wyvern rider. Her mount is actually a manakete which meeeeeans I have no idea what's going on anymore." I draw my hand across my face and sigh. "Marc and Echo. A human riding a manakete who are both allegedly working for Grima. That is definitely not part of the story I know."

"Shall I finish the tale or not?" Lucina remarks angrily with the tap of her foot.

"Go on."

"The short version is thus: this Marc and Echo ambushed us and kept us pinned back from entering the main hall. Nah transformed to press back against the manakete and the two ended up crashing into the ceiling. When they broke through Nah was forced out of her form by the trauma. Something happened to the other as well because he could not control his transformation all that well. The blow shook him up and he took substantial damage from his fall. Both he and his rider retreated afterward allowing us to finally reach the group. Unfortunately we had been stalled for too long. Princess Lissa had already been taken."

"Which leads us to here," she concludes.

I look behind me and see the backs of my friends at the front. I can hear Emmeryn exchanging words with Valdiar though what they speak is lost in the echoes and whispers around us. Occasionally Chrom's angered voice rises up over the rest, only to drop again.

"And you, how did your endevour fare?"

The shock of earlier lays over me and my voice is lost. I stare blankly at her as everything drops out and numbs around me. How did I do? That's a loaded question.

"Robin?" She states my name with a hint of concern. "You look ill."

"Ah ha ha. Me ill? No."

"What's wrong?" she pushes.

My voice flat lines. "Nothing really. I just screwed up is all."

Her eyes widen under her mask and she looks to the crowd nearby. I can see her hop over the heads, counting as she goes. "Everyone is present," she says in confusion.

"They are. But four of the guards we saved aren't."

"Oh."

I look to the ground and my right hand suddenly feel weighty and slimy. There's a quiet rage in my heart but it's all geared at me. A self-loathing for what I had forgotten to do, what I could not save, and then what I took in a fit of blind emotion. I helped no one and only sowed more blood in response. I feel no better than the Grimleal I murdered.

"Robin," Lucina says calmly. She sounds a little like Emmeryn when she says it. She tilts her head and interrupts my line of sight. "Whatever occurred, you cannot let it destroy you so. You must be strong."

"I don't think I deserve that right after what I did," I snap back viciously. The corners of my eyes dampen and I crunch my eyes shut to try and vanquish them before they fully emerge. "I made a grave mistake, lost four good people, smashed a guy's face open in a fit of mindless rage, and then got cracked across the back of the skull like some amateur. Yeah, I should totally not let that bother me."

There is a long pause of quiet between us that feels like an eternity.

"To err is human," Lucina responds back finally in a voice fully hers. "And that is a good thing."

I let out a bitter laugh. "How so?"

"You've proved you're human." The next part is spoken with a mixture of relief and gratitude. "You are no fell dragon. You are not Grima. Just human."

"You bleed, feel, and understand. That is not something a monster like Grima could claim to."

My eyes flutter open and I stare up at her in quiet surprise.

I...I suppose that makes sense. She has a point. That's a weighty price for such a reward but still. It's no cure at all but the dab of salve does me just a tad better. The reinforcement that I'm still me, not a monster bent to destroy the world, helps. Yes, I did make a mistake. A bad one. Not intentional or malicious. Hell, even if I did know that priest was there things might not have changed.

But I can still do something to try and make up for it. The first part was making sure Emmeryn was rescued. Now, I have to bring justice to the fallen by doing in the ones who ordered these Grimleal forth.

"You're an amazing kid, you know that?" I murmur as I start to pull myself back together. "I hope my little spawns end up like you someday."

"Your children..." she whispers almost inaudibly.

The somberness of the atmosphere comes crashing down on us when an unknown body comes barreling at Lucina.

"Marth! Merric and I have relocated Tiki and he waits with her there." The cloaked male skids to a halt and stops beside us.

"So Merric has Sir Lon'qu in eyesight? That is good. We can prevent any more unfortunate events from befalling him then," Lucina nods.

That jump-starts my senses. My fears from earlier come back as butterflies start to flutter in my stomach. "Wait did you just say Lon'qu! So he's alive then? I haven't seen him at all since we came in! How is he?"

"He lives though he was roughed up quite well. He fought valiantly to protect the princess but some of the still alive Grimleal fought him off. There were too many. Fortunately Dame Nethys and her men put them down before recovering him. She has him resting in the courtyard with other injured."

"You don't know how happy that makes me feel," I sigh breathlessly. My heart beats a bit faster and I can't help but feel horrible for him. I wish there was something I could do to help. Poor guy. What a hero. I wish he had been protecting me that ferociously. I'd be- Er, why is this guy still staring at me?

I clear my throat. "Marth, why's your friend looking at me like that?"

"Oh. Right," she says dully. "This is my companion Chris."

She lowers her voice. "You may guess easily enough who he truly is though."

I'm guessing if she's being so open about his identity it is alright for me to address him by his real name. She must have fed him something about us working together in full knowledge of their true natures and purpose.

The young man in front of me stands only a few inches taller than her. His whole body is rigid and wound tightly as he stares intently at me with a half-opened mouth.

"Egads!" He murmurs in awe. "It's you!"

He suddenly springs to life and bends down on one knee. He dips his head and rests a hand on his sword as he bellows loudly. "Hail and well met Lady Robin. I am Chris, stalwart aid and ever-present protector to my companion here. It is my deepest honor to stand before a legend of my era. Your infinite sagacity and martial prowess have filled my soul and stirred my passions for many a night as I dreamed of reaching the same level of-"

That is definitely not Laurent. Only one other option.

"Easy there," I say very quietly with a small smile. "No need for the elaborate introduction. I know who you are, Owain."

The boy does a sharp intake of breath and looks over at his cousin with sheer disbelief. "She said my name!"

"Indeed, because that's what it is, isn't it?" Lucina exasperates. "And do not speak so loud. You may be heard."

"Marth and Chris huh? That's fitting. I think I heard you mention Merric and Tiki too. Is that your friends' code names as well?"

"Yes," Lucina nods.

"That's cute." They're all using names of past heroes from Marth's games.

"It was my idea," Owain boasts proudly.

"A splendid idea befitting such an intelligent and resourceful young fighter. Only someone burning with the true soul of a hero could think up such a magnificent idea."

"You think I'm...I mean you are too kind, o fabled one." Owain trumpets in a deep voice. "I merely pay homage to the great warriors of yore whose blood flows throughout my veins and spurs forth my actions toward the brighter dawn!"

"You're encouraging him," Lucina deadpans. "Please stop."

"Nah, I like it."

Owain gives another bashful smile but that quickly fades as he adapts a more serious expression. "As much as I wish to bask, I must point out. Things are not going well. One of the hallowed royals of this castle has come under duress! We must make haste to free her fair hand from the clutches of evil."

Lucina raises a hand and massages her temple. "Don't I know this. As much as this must pain you to hear, I think it best for us to wait and see how the talk goes between Validar and the Exalt at the moment."

Owain stares morosely back toward the towering barrier. "I wish I could wait so patiently but you know I must protest in worry. What if we wait too long?"

"There are many what-ifs but rushing ahead will only cause the worst outcome to become the real thing. If we are to save the princess then it will have to be done so with delicate planning."

"I hope you have one ready now then," I say in fear as things start to kick up, "cause something bad just happened."

There's an uproar of voices and I see Nethys dragging Emmeryn to the back. Leaving the two behind, I quickly make my way over to the present day Shepherds.

"What's going on?" I ask as I catch Gaius by the sleeve.

"My ex-Boss didn't like what he heard apparently. The Exalt offered him a generous chance to escape execution in exchange for information and the safe return of Exalt junior there. Unlike me, he didn't take too kindly to the offer."

"Pot stickers," I groan.

Lucina and Owain come up behind me and the look on my face tells them everything. The grip on Owain's weapon tightens and he looks more anxious than before. I feel so bad for him. He's got to be fearing for his mom. Yikes, that's too strange to imagine. Young Lissa a mother? I think she's got some years yet.

Ahead, Nethys and Emmeryn talk a midst the rest of our group in rushed voices.

"I think it's very clear what he's after your Grace," the Captain states. "But if you trade it over for the princess then we may very well be in graver straits."

"So you propose we do nothing?" Chrom angrily interrupts. "We should simply leave my sister to be slaughtered like some sacrifice at the altar?"

"No! But we all know that treacherous rat of a king has desired the-"

"Enough," Emmeryn orders, voice raising. "Speak no more. It has been made clear that peace talks are no longer an option. He will use my sister as leverage one way or another. Be it a bargaining tool or an escape route."

"Then what would you have us do?" Nethys asks. She's clearly feeling the pressure of the situation.

"A plan would be the right place to start," Lucina steps in boldly.

Her prescience causes a stir a midst the others as they recognize her.

"Marth. So it was you," Chrom states in acknowledgment. "Another fortuitous appearance. Strange as it may be, I can't help but feel grateful to have another practiced sword at hand."

"So you spoke the truth after all," Frederick states to the thief beside him. "It seems your word carries some credibility."

Gaius leans on him and pats his chest in a friendly manner. "Heh. It's got some weight to it, when I want it to."

Frederick remains unaffected by the friendly banter. He coldly removes Gaius with one hand and drops the red head's arm like it were a sack of manure. "Quite," he glares.

"So this is Marth," Emmeryn states. "I would happily offer my hospitality to one who has done such good for my family, but the current state of affairs leaves me quite lacking I'm afraid. It is still a pleasure to meet you however."

Lucina bows deeply. "My Lady."

"Odd. You smell wrong."

I eep in surprise and back away from Panne's position behind us. She stealth bombed right in.

Wow. You know, up close now, I can see why Panne draws the occasional look of distraction from those around her. Her tanned skin and dark hair make her stand out among the general populace. And with her tall and muscular athlete's build, she's definitely not the dainty maid that needs saving. I could easily see her as some elite MMA fighter or something.

Both she and Lucina remain in a deadlock, neither breaking eye contact with the other.

"I find it more odd to see a member of a presumably extinct race here within the Exalt's circle," Lucina stoically counters.

"Odder still is a girl child masquerading in the skin of a dead king."

AAAAAH! Panne, no!

Lucina frowns deeply. Surprisingly, the only one who seems to react is Chrom.

"What?" He frantically looks between everyone and seems more than concerned at the lack of response everyone else is giving. "Y-you're a woman?"

"And still quite the actor if you haven't figured me out by this point," Lucina states dryly.

"Everyone else...?"

Frederick clears his throat and looks away while Emmeryn stares politely. Gaius offers a bland "Yup" while Panne raises and eyebrow in disbelief.

"First me then Marth?" I quip mockingly. "Zero out of two. You're really bad at this gender guessing thing."

He winces and reddens.

"I really don't give three kicks to an ogre's balls about her sex. I'd rather we get back to figuring out what to do with the Princess," Nethys blurts out impatiently. "There's a blasted barrier blocking them in good with no way of letting any of my people in."

"As long as we have them surrounded, they cannot go anywhere," Emmeryn answers.

"So he sits and waits while we scurry to make a counteroffer? I refuse to bargain with him Emm. If we're making a plan, it's to end him," Chrom argues aggressively, growing serious again. His grip on Falchion is tight and his fingers shift uneasily up and down the length of it.

"How is Lissa? She's still alright?" I ask for the sake of Owain who continues to linger behind me in silence. I figured he'd be happy to join in but from the distance he's hovering, I have to wonder if he's letting Lucina be the voice in their group of misfits.

"Lissa is frightened but alive," Emmeryn explains with a mix of uneasy hope. "Despite whatever desire they might have to kill her, she is more valuable to them alive for the time being. Until this Grimleal priest gets what he wants, he will do her no serious harm. If there is ever a time he will strike, it is when he gets what he wants."

"Can we please stop talking about Lissa dying!" Chrom exasperates.

Panne's head tilts and then she looks over her shoulder. Her expression darkens. "The man is casting."

"What now?" Nethys grunts as we all turn.

An eerie glow emits from the other side as a second figure barely visible behind Validar raises his arms.

"Gaius, is that the adviser?" I ask next to him.

"Think so. Looks about right. I suppose he would be right near the head priest."

I guess he would. They did appear to be together in that one room. Well great. Now we have Validar and this toadstool.

From under the priest's sleeves comes a dark stream of black light. The magic pools together before him and splinters out like a spiderweb. The structure of his is different though. Spells as I know them are work through invoking the magic stream via a summoning circle. Unlike my world where four is the magic number (such as the classical elements, humors, etc.), Akaneia's really big on three. Aside from that numbering the anima trinity, Miriel mentioned that Ylisse's history is seeped in superstition surrounding it. She glossed over something about the original pantheon hosting three creator deities, traditional story telling featuring three heroes, blah blah. So anyway, when we summon, we conjure one for each major field then close them in with an outer ring to hold in the energy and unify the forces together.

The priest's forms a larger circle in the center with four small ones touching in the positions of compass points. Around it are strings of runes that shoot out in straight lines until they hit the large oval holding it all in together. Stepping back, it reminds me of a bloodshot eye. That's inspiring. Ew, what if it's like one of Grima's eyes. Ironic symbolism.

The four lights around the center glow, followed by the center one. Shattering outward, the rune lines fly forward toward us. The priest gestures with his hand and the barrier tears in two allowing the spell to move forward. He guides with one hand while closing the hole with the other. Ooo, he's good.

The magic hits the floor and a bubbling puddle rises up. With it comes smoke that starts to billow up and out. The noxious stench of it wafts over and causes my eyes to water.

"Captain!" Emmeryn's low voice is controlled and calm. "Arrange a counter barrier. Now."

Nethys immediately whirls around and claps. "Yves. Humphrey. Dalton. Bea. You heard her. Move!"

"Why's he attacking?" Chrom questions as he eyes the encroaching smoke. "I thought we managed to stall by expressing the need to convene."

"I'd guess he wants you to decide faster," Gaius cracks.

Four lightly armored city guards move past everyone and arrange in front of us.

"Set up a line from one edge of the hall to the other," Emmeryn instructs with a gesture of her hand.

Three of the clerics spread out with two on the ends and one in the middle. The fourth pulls something from his pocket and bends over. He bends over and places it on the ground before sidestepping with great haste over the floor. A fine white trail of chalk follows after him. Upon reaching the end the other three pull out one of two different staves attached to their backs. Placing it down, they begin to focus their energy.

While they do so, the fumes spewing forth start to curl closer and closer to us.

"Can they hasten their efforts, Dame Nethys?"

"Unfortunately not. You get what you pay me, Sir Frederick. Fresh recruits still wet behind the ears."

Lucina turns and beckons Owain forward. He slides in beside me, his eyes moving over each figure before us. I wonder how long it's been since he's seen any of these people alive. Ouch, heart-strings plucked.

"Chris, focus on me."

"I am."

"Should we have to, I want you to be prepared to help Merric move Tiki to a safe ground. Help Sir Lon'qu as well if you must. Make them your priority and entrust the princess' return with me."

Owain stares again towards his mother. The hood is masking his face well but I can tell by his body language how stressed he's becoming. "If I am to leave her fate to another, yours are the best hands I can leave her in."

"Thank you Chris."

"Did he, er, she just say Chris?"

Chrom's looking back at us, shocked at the sight of a second newcomer.

"You heard right. This is my companion."

"And yes, this one is a boy Chrom. Just figured I'd help you out there given all the trouble you've been having," I add smugly.

"I can see clear enough," he responds humorlessly.

Nethys fusses impatiently before us. "I knew I should have sent out for that pretentious windbag at the church."

"A moment more, Captain!" One cleric sputters out.

The dark stones on the ends of each staff, jet or obsidian I think, begin to glow with bright light. The pulsating halo around each continues to expand larger and larger.

"Get ready to evacuate if need be," I hear Nethys say uneasily.

"I'm going no where without Lissa."

Frederick finally breaks from his silent vigil. "You'll be no use to her dead my Lord. The princess is safer than us right now with the barrier protecting her."

"We'd be too if our own barrier were up," the guard captain grumbles.

"Rushing them will not help. Patience," Emmeryn responds though she is starting to look ill at ease.

Gaius takes a few steps back as the fog rolls ever closer. "Gettin' kind of close folks. We either back up now or risk getting caught in the thick of it while evacuating."

"Son of a griffon," Nethys spits. "Someone get the Exalt out of here."

Panne moves to personally take Emmeryn but she steps back in protest. "Hold yourself. The task is done."

And just like that, it is.

Each cleric digs their staff into the ground and backs away as a light bursts from each side. The beams cut through each other and lock together forming a glass like defense that extends all the way to the ceiling. The fourth cleric had been drawing circles around each base so when the others stepped away, the magic holds them upright.

The encroaching smoke hits the barrier seconds later and harmlessly drifts up and back in toward the center of the room. Not a speck of it leaks through.

"Well I'll be. Look at that. Good work goons," Nethys sighs.

Frederick steps closer to the glass wall."What foul magic is this?"

"Marth?" I ask, nudging her. "You know a little about dark magic, don't you? Any ideas?"

She nods. "This is Waste. It's a debilitating fog that settles over a large area and saps anyone caught in it of their energy. If you leave quick enough, it should pose no threat. But the longer you stay, the slimmer your chances of survival are."

"A tactic meant to impede progress. But why? Were they not waiting for our answer?" Frederick ponders as he watches the rolls press up against the surface.

"It's a diversionary tactic," Marth answers. "This man holding your princess hostage is using whatever tricks he can to find what he wants. He has called your bluff. He knows you will not bargain fairly for her return. Yet, you will not attack straight away while she is in direct danger. So now he will go about buying time to achieve his desire through his own capabilities. He is a magic user which means he has the ability to scry. Better yet, by having us panic in an attempt to clear this spell, he is pulling our attentions away from potentially stopping any remaining agents he may have to scour the halls for him."

"I can dispel your last worry. There are none stalking these halls. At least not of this wing," Panne responds.

"How can you tell?" I ask curiously. She stares point blank at me like I've grown another head. "Enlighten the ignorant human."

The statement causes her to regard me with an interested expression before it returns to normal. "Fine then. The hearing of a Taguel is far richer than that of a humans. I can hear well beyond these walls and past closed doors. Thus, I can confirm nothing moves beyond our room."

Enhanced hearing? That's a nice superpower. "Neat."

"It is not neat, human. It is but a normal ability all of my kind have. There is nothing fanciful about it."

"I don't care about what or who they're stalling for," Chrom states. "Lissa is the only priority we have right now. She won't stay safe forever."

"I agree. We must reach her," Frederick adds.

"How? In case you didn't notice, there's a bog of poisonous gas between us and her," I say pointing at the lovely purple smog.

Emmeryn smiles and steps into our circle. "Have faith, Robin. I have the remedy to our troubles."

"Your Grace?" Frederick inquires.

Emmeryn produces her staff before us. The decorative rings hanging around the large circle encompassing the top tinkle against each other as she lowers it. Atop is a bright crystal like the one on Lissa's staff.

"You?" Frederick's face goes ashen and he stalks forward. He grips her staff and pushes it down. "No. No, this is not an option. I will not allow it."

"Frederick," she tuts, "you are so quick to protest. I have not yet even spoken."

"Aye, and you need not utter a word. I know you well enough to guess and I refuse to even consider it."

"A shame and I apologize deeply for the distress you must be feeling. But, you forget who you speak to."

"I don't understand," I say shaking my head. "What's wrong and why don't we want to do it?"

"Emmeryn's staff can protect us from the mire," Chrom comments beside me.

"A healing staff?"

"It is not just that Robin. Observe closer." Emmeryn wrestles it from Frederick's grasp and eases it closer to me. "Each rung is but another control for me to use when invoking magic. Much like your use of tomes, each stone upon my staff can be used to channel forth a different spell."

Oh, now I get it! Emmeryn's staff is the equivalent to a Swiss-army knife! That's really cool.

Miriel explained to me briefly the extent of magic outside my anima school. Holy magic, or white magic, is theorized to exist in a different state than the elementals. While the elements draw from the more physical sources, it's been noted that the schools of both this and dark magic come from a more spiritual sense. As such, they use a different medium when invoking. This is where it gets confusing, something about using aspects that are filled with living energy to draw up power from. Staffs or wands from wood that contain natural life energies from the trees and air. Rocks molded by water and wrapped with the dust and dirt of faded bodies and plants. Minerals that are created by magma and trapped with its fiery heat. All I know is that there's a lot of memorization and pruning involved. Way more work than I do.

Staring at Emmeryn's staff, I can see she's got quite the array of different stones. Reaching forward, she twists her hand. The topmost jewel actually comes loose and drops down the side. Pushing rung after rung aside, she pulls up a deep black stone that looks exactly like the ones used by the clerics earlier and it clicks into place.

"You're going to use a barrier too Emm? Are you sure you can handle upholding a spell like that by yourself?" Chrom questions with worry. "That's rather risky."

"It will. It must."

I stare at her in shock. "You can make a barrier that will protect everyone here? That's crazy!"

Frederick glowers. "She does not intend to do so, isn't that right your Grace?"

"How astute of you! But you are right. Even I do not wield that much power. However, I can hold back the fumes for a very small number of people. Enough to face these men in combat if that is what is must come down to."

"You're serious?" I gawk. I look to her brother and steward. "She's serious?"

"Unfortunately," Frederick frowns.

"There is no time to debate otherwise," Emmeryn states firmly. "I will not allow my sister to fall further into harm."

"Agreed, loathe as I am to do so." Chrom says as he comes to her side. "I hope you aren't planning on keeping me here."

She fondly places a hand on his shoulder. "Of course not. Lissa is both our sibling. I would have it no other way."

"If we are taking volunteers then allow me to put forth myself," Lucina boldly declares.

"You would do so? For what reasons if I may inquire?" the Exalt asks with genuine interest.

"You've lost enough good people here, my Lady. Do you wish to sacrifice more familiar faces? I am an unknown and have no emotional stakes tied to you. I am expendable if worse comes to worse."

Something about what she says rubs me the wrong way. I feel a spike of anger rise. "Like hell you are! What kind of trash talk is that?"

"The truth," she replies.

"Fear not, most noble comrades! The great hero king will not venture alone. I, his...her most astute companion, will stand ready at the side. For she is justice and I am the blade that will wield it. When the darkness threatens I will be her shield. I-"

"Chris," Lucina interrupts with barely veiled impatience. "They understand."

Owain clears his throat. Looking over to the barrier ahead, he seems to somber. "O-of course. Just making sure. Not everyone seems to remember is all."

"Most scholars don't, but Marth's descendants have not forgotten the man's sacrifices to his lord," Chrom answers thoughtfully. He regards the two with a mixed expression. "I'm well aware of the lineage you two are trying to uphold and if you believe yourselves to be able to carry them, then I will not deny you your request. In fact, I would be glad to have a few legends to carry us through."

"I agree. If you extend aid with full knowing of the dangers at hand, then I can do nothing but accept with graciousness," Emmeryn nods.

These two are astounding. The bravery they're exhibiting is humbling. It shames me, honestly. I can't just sit back and let them face danger like that. I know I shouldn't be near Validar but I can at least hang back and help with his partner. I need to do this. I need to somehow right my wrong.

"I'll help out too, Marth," I say with as much confidence as I can muster. "Partners have to stick together you know."

"Robin, I do not know. These men are of a different stature." Lucina is clearly trying hard not to show how against the idea she is. And someone else is right in there with her.

"Marth's right," Chrom cuts in. "I entertained the idea of letting you come with but this is too much. Stay back with Nethys and the others."

His protest is both surprising and irritating. I move forward with voice rising as I start to argue. "No. I-"

Chrom steps right up and glares back. This is the most serious he's been with me. "Robin, I'm not giving you an option this time."

My mouth hangs open in shock.

I hear Emmeryn turn behind me. "Frederick, I would like you to stay as well."

"What?" he bellows.

"Please."

"I will not!" he protests, mirroring me.

"You will," she stubbornly chimes back.

"Your Grace." Frederick stops a hairbreadth before her. The amount of emotion in his eyes when he looks at her is startling. I've never seen him so passionate before. The most shocking thing is how personal he addresses her next. "Emmeryn. I will follow you to the ends of this plane if I must. I will set myself upon my own sword if you will it. But this? I cannot allow you to put yourself in the forefront of your most dangerous foes. To even entertain the thought of you being close enough to those foul wretches... that they could even place of finger upon you is unforgivable! You cannot ask me to do this."

"I am. And I must do so because of what you just said." I look around to see if anyone else is seeing what I'm seeing. Is this for real?

Emmeryn smiles softly and places a hand gently on his heart. "Frederick, you are my family's most loyal knight. My stalwart companion, caretaker, and friend since we were but children. I know that you would die for me. And that is something I do not want. Not after so much has already been lost. My heart grieves already for my people. Do you wish to further rob me of one of the few lives I hold dearest in this world?"

Holy crap.

Hooo-ly crap.

The look he's giving her, it's the same I saw in court that one day. It's beyond devotion and knightly duty. Naga take me.

"Please. Stay."

Frederick let's out a sigh, one that comes up from the deepest parts of his soul. He gently removes her hand and holds it in his own before bowing deeply at the waist. Though he backs away, their grasp lingers a second longer.

"With the gravest of hearts do I acquiesce to your bidding, my Lady."

The same hand he held curls tightly against her chest. "Thank you," she murmurs quietly.

Oh my God. Are Frederick and Emmeryn...? I sneak a peek at Chrom to see his reaction since he'd be the best to confirm it. He's completely neutral and got his head turned away as if to give them privacy, but I can see he's watching from the corner of his eye. No opinions or protests.

Well, there's only one proper response to this new development if it really is what I think it is.

I ship it.

Hard.

Nethys coughs loudly into her palm and shuffles in. "Only three bodies, your Grace? Surely one more can help? One of my lieutenants?"

"Screw that. You need all your men," I say. "Besides, I already said I'm going."

Chrom's irritation flares again. "Gods, Robin. Did you not hear me? Stay. Here."

"No," I whine. "I won't."

"Robin, this isn't a request," he growls. "It's an order."

Oh really. Is that what it's come to Mr. Fancy-pants? Glaring and throwing your weight around? Well then. Take this.

"I quit."

It takes a moment for him to process. "What?"

"I quit the Shepherds." I enunciate each word so he gets it. "You are no longer my boss. You can't order me around anymore. You aren't able to keep me here."

Chrom blinks. He looks like he's just been slapped across the face. Gaius elicits a loud bark of laughter from across the way in response.

"Now then," I say turning to Emmeryn. "seeing as I'm a freelance mercenary now, I'm offering my services to you my Lady. Free of charge even. Let me help you."

"Emmeryn, don't you dare," Chrom declares whirling around on her. He points straight at me. "Robin's in no condition to do this. She's been through enough."

Nethys tries to weasel in with a rebuttal but I stomp right past her and get right up in my former captain's face.

"Don't you dare decide for me what I can and can't do Chrom! You don't have that right!" My emotions are an influx of different things right now. Revenge fueling rebellion fueling sadness fueling God knows what else. I push him hard in chest and glare hotly. "You don't get it. I have to do this. I need to do this! If I don't take these bastards down then all those lives I lost will be for nothing!"

There's a brief second of silence. Something dawns on him but still he watches unsure. I take a step back and breathe in deep to prevent myself from going on an emotional roller coaster.

"I led those men and women into battle earlier to liberate you all," I explain, hands shaking. "In doing so, I made an oversight. A simple, easy to avoid mistake. And now, four people are dead. Their blood is on my hands! They were my responsibility and I failed!"

"Now it's my responsibility to make sure those deaths meant something. So don't tell me that I can't go. Don't you dare strip me of my duty to their memories."

Frederick steps up beside me and I get a strong sense of reassurance and support. "My Lord. Leave it be."

Chrom looks like he wants to protest but Frederick hushes him. "There are some things that must simply be done. This is one such time."

And to slam the final nail in the coffin, Lucina also speaks up. "I would normally be in agreeance with your line of thought, Prince Chrom. But in this instance, even I must agree. Let...let her come."

I swell with gratefulness. I don't know what I've done to deserve having people like this around me but I sure am blessed for having done so.

Feeling outnumbered, Chrom doesn't say anything else. I can't read the expression he quickly gives me as he turns away too fast to process it.

Emmeryn lightly clasps her hands together. "Then it is settled. Frederick, work with Dame Nethys on our plans. I would have you distract the priests from our departure. Spread the ranks so his attention is skewered and we can take advantage of the confusion."

"Yes, your Grace. Madame Panne, Master Gaius. I would have you aid me is you could."

The two follow after Nethys she departs. Panne walks right past us while Gaius tips his fingers off his head in a gesture of farewell and luck. Frederick, however stops before Lucina and Owain.

"Know this, you two. I am leaving their protection in your hands. Should harm fall to the Exalt or her family, there will be repercussions. Do I make myself clear?"

"Of course, sir knight."

"By Eliwood's blade, you have by promise."

Frederick's gives Owain a perturbed look but shakes it off. As he passes, I can't help but comment.

"Frederick?"

"Hm?'

"You really need to come up with a new threat. You've been using that one since we first met. Try to shake it up a little. I barely felt a thing and I'm sure they didn't either. You're losing your intimating edge." My humor is forced and barely noticeable as I try to regain a bit of lightheartedness before we enter the hurricane.

I'm rewarded with a snort and a faint smile. "As always, your immaturity is a pleasure to behold. Stay safe Robin."

"Yeah, I'll try."

No promises though.

We all wait together as the group retreats. They all huddle together and speak. Finally, Nethys gestures and her numbers begin to fan out. Lining the length of the room with archers, the guard captain hides us quite convincingly. It looks as if she is protecting the Exalt. It's a good ruse, honestly. Who would believe the meek and peace loving Exalt of Ylisse would throw herself into battle against a powerful enemy? Her image makes her unassuming and weak. A glass jaw that hides behind the power of her army. It's a misconception like that on Validar's part that will hopefully make the plan work. So far he has yet to even bother look our way as he is focusing all his attention on maintaining a grip on Lissa and watching Nethys and Frederick's movements.

Safe behind the soldiers, Emmeryn ignites her spell. She places the staff upright with one hand and waves her open palm in a gentle caress over the stone atop it. An ethereal glow begins to emanate from it, lighting her eyes and giving them a mystical glow. Her look of concentration grows stronger as the light begins to pool out and around us. A nearly clear force of circular magic pulses out. Occasionally a sheen of prismatic light glides over the top outlining the building dome. I watch in fascination as it slowly grows.

"Come in closer. The radius of the spell is small and I can maintain only so much," she orders.

I take a breath and then step forward through the growing bubble. Ooo, that tickles!

The sensation is cool and refreshing, like submerging into a mountain spring. The air I breathe in is crisp and clean. It's like my whole body has been purified. I'm grateful because it feels like a piece of that hanging cloud over my heart and mind has been lifted. I can focus much clearer now.

"We must stick to the far wall. Though it is the longest route, it will keep us hidden and almost completely out of the priest's direct line of site. Marth, I must inquire in case things go awry. How much time would one have to escape the spell should my barrier fail?"

Lucina eyes the distance. "If we make it even half way, we will survive. For the best odds, three quarters of the way and we will still emerge with most strength intact. Though if we pass that threshold, we can only go forward. Doubling back will prove disastrous."

"That sounds doable," I quip positively.

"I see," the Exalt breaths. "Alright. I advise you all to stay together. Move in coordination with one another so none leave the circle."

"Off then to save the fair maiden from the wicked dark lord! Onward, fellow heroes!" Owain's enthusiastic attempt to stir our spirits is muffled a midst our bodies as we huddle together under the umbrella of her spell.

Well this is awkward. We're literally elbow to elbow. Some more than others.

Owain's practically riding my hip. Seriously.

And he is not subtle at all about how much he's staring at me from under his hood. We make eye contact and he goes all wide-eyed. Trying to be friendly, I give an unsure half smile. He quickly covers the lower half of his face and looks away with a distracting cough. He's fidgeting real bad and looks like he can barely contain himself.

I hear a tiny 'ow' as Lucina accidentally (but not really) elbows his side. Her stern look is quickly wiped as she tries to maintain an inconspicuous demeanor.

Any day of the week I would love, and I mean love, to chat is up with the silly little nerd beside me. But somehow it doesn't seem right to do it in the middle of a rescue mission towards the very woman whose life he is dependent on.

Emmeryn's pacing is excruciatingly slow but we can't rush her. She's trying to concentrate on protecting five people while maintaining a moving speed and focusing on the enemy's line of sight. I can't imagine how much stress is on her right now. I think it's sapping her strength little by little because I feel like we're growing more cramped. Is the bubble closing in?

Oh, she looks real pale. And she starting to perspire around her brow. Can't we shuffle faster?

Someone shrieks behind us and I look to see a solider being pulled back through our barrier. Did Nethys try to send someone in? That went horribly wrong. Thank goodness we're almost there.

Oops, stepped on Chrom's foot. Hard not to as we're all practically wedged into each other. I sink into myself and mouth an apology to him. All I get back is a frigid stare. Ah, he's still sore at me about coming along. Great. I wrinkle my nose in distaste at him and focus ahead again.

Frederick, Nethys, and the others are doing a marvelous job drawing Validar's attention away because we finally get to the opposing barrier with no obstacles in our way. We're home free!

Lucina pushes ahead of us and presses against the wall. Instead of moving through as I assumed, she stays put. Pushing harder, she tries to force her way through. Nothing.

"It's solid."

My heart drops. "Are you serious? How do we get in now?"

"With talent," Emmeryn beams proudly, despite the stress she's under. "Chrom, if you would be so kind?"

"I need room," he states in a serious tone. We all move back and afford him what little we can give.

"What's he doing?" I whisper to Lucina as low as I can.

"Falchion is a direct extension of Naga, do you not remember? It's power should negate the fell force powering the barrier here."

"Oh. That's actually really awesome."

"Slaying darkness with light! The hero steps forth whit sword shining-"

I tone out Owain's self narration and watch. Chrom steps back and draws forth Falchion as he tries to avoid hitting us. He grasps the sword with both hands and holds if forward. There is a look of determination and concentration on his face as he stares at the force field wall. Closing his eyes, he takes a deep breath in. There's a familiar throb of energy starting to build around him that feels identical to Emmeryn's. But while hers was pressed out and around, Chrom's is drawing up and inward.

Falchion's silver surface rattles lightly and starts to hum. He moves quickly, snapping his eyes open and settling into his battle stance. Like Emmeryn, his eyes seem a deeper and clearer blue. I have to wonder if that's not so much a side effect of magic as it is a power special to them. Their connection to Naga and the dragon's powers.

He strikes out and Falchion pierces through the darkened barrier with a bright flash that runs up the length of the blade. There's a steaming hiss as it slides straight through. With a great heave, Chrom pulls down and cleaves the magical wall in two. The whole crack flickers and then shatters outward. The energy released scorches into me, pulling the air from my lungs just like when you go down the steep drop on a roller coaster. It's uncomfortable and feels wrong.

There's some shouts behind us but we don't stop to look. Instead, we plow forward toward the figures before us.

As we run, I feel something catch the back of my coat. The hood is pulled up and yanked over my head as Lucina runs past. She turns around and steps backward giving me a great look of warning. Ah, keep my identity hidden. Right. We are dealing with Validar here.

My heart hammers in my chest as we draw to a stop behind the two men. With their backs turned toward us, Validar beings to laugh.

"Chrom! Emmeryn!"

To our surprise, Validar extends his grip and lets Lissa loose. The princess instantly ducks under his arm and flies toward her siblings. Chrom leaps forward and grabs his baby sister in his arms, dragging her to safety.

"As you predicted. 'twas only a matter of time," Validar comments.

"Indeed. Your prey is now here. Do with them as you please," his ally replies.

The priest glides past Validar where he retreats to watch from the corner. One hand rests over a staff glowing just slightly in the wall. Oh, sick. It's jutting out of three bodies shish-ka-bobbed against it. Well there's the barriers source of power. These people are twisted.

Validar slowly meets us face to face. He's oddly calm for someone who was just ambushed. He must have a lot of confidence in his own power. I'd be running for a nearby exit myself.

"Exalt of Ylisse. A pleasure to meet you up close finally."

"I'm not sure I can readily reciprocate the feelings, Master Priest."

"A shame. And here I wished to offer you my congratulations. Well played, daughter of Naga. A well placed fit of trickery befitting the heir of the previous Exalt. His legacy lives on."

Emmeryn's eyebrows draw together and she frowns at his comment. But she isn't' the one to respond. It's her brother.

"You best curb your tongue before I relieve you of it," he threatens as he steps in front of Lissa with weapon at the ready.

"Ah, and you brought along the Lionheart's young cub. The whole family gathered as one. That's precious." His last sentence is dripping in venom.

"Dastard."

"Quell your voice, boy. Your minuscule mewling compares nothing to the mighty roar of your father."

Chrom's eye twitches in anger as he growls in new-found rage. He takes a step forward, ready to pounce. It's only by Emmeryn's outstretched arm that he refrains from charging the older man down.

"Do not give in to his taunts Chrom. Separating you from the group will only give him more opportunity to strike a devastating blow upon you."

"You're more perceptive than you give on, Exalt. I figured this to be an easy task. The stubbornness of your people is commendable. That fought well to the last breath."

Validar's playing a dangerous game. He knows he's already got his claws in Chrom and he's subtly dropping these sly remarks to continue to agitate him. If he quickens Chrom's anger to a breaking point, it will leave him reckless and narrow-minded in his attempts to strike the other man down. With the other priest hanging in the back, he could very well be the one to spring the trap when given a chance.

"What an asshole," I whisper to myself.

Owain is too busy staring at his mother to answer. His bravado is slipping and I can see the quiver in his hands. I make eyes at Lucina and she looks over. She carefully extends her palm and places it over her cousin's arm. It stops the shakes, but he's still very rigid.

The gesture is very intimate for something so simple. It's the most human response I've seen from Lucina. A firm reminder that there's still a kind young woman under her stoic swordsman persona. Honestly, it makes me feel a bit homesick. What I wouldn't give have the touch of my friends again. To hug them or hear their familiar laughter again. Anything to remind me of family and home.

"You tell me that you have attacked my people for Ylisse's most precious gift and hold my sister hostage for its random. Yet you cast the spell to keep us away and free your sole bargaining token upon meeting us."

Emmeryn continues, her voice growing stronger. "I must assume our previous conversation was simply lies meant to misguide me. So I will ask again. Who sent you? Are you under the Grimleal banner or Plegia's? Why do this? And for what?"

"Questions. So many questions. Befitting for a child who knows nothing of the world," he sneers as he paces before us. "I will forgive your ignorance but I will not cure it. I owe you no explanations Naga spawn. But I do demand reparations. And when I find it, I will take it."

I lean over to Lucina. "I thought they came with the intents to kill Emmeryn. It sounds like he's been sent for something else."

"It's the Fire Emblem, I'm sure. They would have claimed it regardless of killing the Exalt. I suppose it is of more importance tonight. Though I have no idea what prompted the change in the primary target. Regardless, the outcomes will be the same if we do not alter it."

Emmeryn stands tall and proud before the other man. She is unshaken by everything he throws at her. "I offered you a chance to surrender, Master Validar. And it still stands. Take it now and let us end this night once and for all."

Her hands move over her staff and settle in the middle of it. She's readying to fight.

"Or what, child? You will attack me? Do you have the will to bloody your hallowed hands with my blood?" he taunts.

"Emmeryn," Chrom states in warning. He's ready to defend his family and country. All she has to do is give the word.

"A final chance, Validar. Stand down or I will be forced to act on behalf of my country's safety."

"You would risk breaking the alliance between Ylisse and Plegia that you worked so tirelessly to establish?"

"We've past that point you jerk!" Lissa hops behind her brother, throwing out an accusing finger at him. "You broke it the second you started killing our people!"

Emmeryn looks so pained right now. She's watching the last decade of her life wash away. All the painstaking work she's put into repairing and healing her country is about to be shattered in an instant. The pain and suffering of war, all the treaties she's probably made to keep things civil, gone. All because of this man and his cult.

"Yes or no. What is your answer?" she calls out firmly.

"You know what his answer is! Just shank him already," I yell out in anger. I can't stand watching him taunt Emmeryn anymore.

The corner of Validar's mouth raises slightly. "Your peons have a voice after all. How amusing. Also annoying." He lifts a hand and we all shift into battle mode. "Letum, if you would be so kind as to play host to the three in the back?"

A deep rumble of laughter greets us but we have no time to prepare for him.

Validar's spell whizzes to life at impossible speed. The runes swivel and flash at a blinding speed, something I've only seen Miriel able to replicate. He points forward and a spout of flames burst forward like a blowtorch flame.

I grab a hold of both Lucina and Owain and throw all three of us out of the attack's path. We miss it so narrowly I can feel the soles of my boots start to melt.

Lucina is already up as I aid Owain to his feet.

"The others!" I shout. "Can you see them?"

Lucina peers through the raging flames. "I can't see anything."

Wonderful. I cup my hands and yell. "Emmeryn! Chrom! Lissa! Are you alright?"

A faint call from Lissa. I think it's a yes.

The sound of her voice calms Owain. He breaths out deeply. "She's alright."

I want to sigh in relief too, but I can't. Not when I see the creepy bugger in back advancing on us.

"Uh, guys. Company."

"Fell cretin!" Owain bristles as he rises.

This priest, Letum, stops before us and laughs in amusement. "Come, little flies. Entertain me."

"Owain, with me," Lucina orders. I wait for my orders but I get something else entirely. "Robin, you should stay back here."

"Really," I start, my voice rising. "I thought we went over this already."

"You misunderstand," she says as she draws out her own Falchion. "He's not Validar. Save your strength. We should have no trouble with this one."

"Be amazed, Lady Robin! Stand back in awe and wonder at the legacy that shall come forth from the loins of our forefathers and mothers!"

We both stare at him.

"Alright, perhaps that did sound a bit...off."

Lucina cringes. "Really, Owain. Stick with your sword hand nonsense."

"Yes!" He exclaims. "Demonic villain! Fear for my swordha- woah!"

Owain hops out of the way of a spell projectile that whizzes past him. He drops his stance and gawks at Letum.

"Buzz, buzz little bee. Sting before I do."

"He interrupted my monologue! Cousin, did you see that?" he exclaims in disbelief.

"Fight first, talk afterward. We'll avenge your honor later!"

Owain's sword slides from its sheathe as he readies himself. His tone is actually normal for once. "My honor means nothing. I fight with the intent on making you pay for putting your hands on my..."

His declaration tapers off. Owain can't divulge the true nature of his connection with the royal family. But that doesn't stop him from kicking ass in their name.

I watch the two set into a stance, each different from the other. I look really close at how they stand and carry their weapons. It hits me that there's something similar about each. Lucina is comfortably holding the standard Ylissean style of swordcraft. She's nearly identical to Chrom from behind, especially with her wielding Falchion.

Owain's very much like her but there's a difference. The way he settles on his feet and the angle he leans is harsher. Definitely foreign.

The two exchange nods and then shoot forward. Owain crisscrosses in front of her and moves in a long arc to come in from the side. As they move, the similarities becomes far clearer. I couldn't put my finger on it before but as I see more of their individual styles, it reminds me of something I watched on the way back from Regna Ferox.

Chrom's boundless enthusiasm for learning about his new recruits made him seek out our newest tag-along the next day of travel. He got Lon'qu to get out of his tent and have a friendly sparring match to assess his prowess.

I spent a lot of time watching Lon'qu's technique as they fought. You know, for tactical reasons. Nothing else...

Owain's footwork and overall stance are mostly Ylissean but the way he holds the sword and his speed remind me of Lon'qu's Feroxi style. He's a perfect blend of the two different disciplines. Or a perfect marriage one might say. Suspicions flair up inside of me. Could it be? Could Lissa be victorious in the future in pursuing that which I could not have.

Curse you Lissa! Curse you with your bouncing curls, big eyes, and girlish figure. I mentally bite my thumb at you!

Lucina charges in on the priest first and aims straight for him. Unlike most mages who are toast at close range, this priest has good dodging skills. He's fast enough to bend and duck under her swings. It superhuman the way he's just dancing around her. This is a disadvantage for her. Lucina and Chrom both rely on heavy jabs and swift footwork to add and extra bang to their blows. They aim to end an enemy as fast as possible.

Luckily she's consumed his attention so much that he doesn't see Owain come in from the side. Though he retains her same speed, Owain's sword play is far quicker and lethal. He strikes in a hurried succession of blows that I can see are meant to unbalance and disrupt an enemy's defenses. It's the opposite for his cousin who uses her power to plow through them.

Normally I'd think him very successful if not for the fact that his sword just clanged off the arm Letum used to protect himself. He must have armor on under the robes. The force is enough to jar Owain back a few steps. Lucina jumps to his side to help steady him.

"So much for this being easy," I mutter as I pull out my own weapon. After losing my sword in the throne room, I was given a borrow from the west armory. It feels foreign and heavy in my hands but I'll have to make do.

"Let's make the odds three on one, what do you say?" I shout.

Letum acknowledges me with barely any interest, instead focusing on Lucina. "The sword you wield. For you to be carrying that when it was clearly in the hands of another can only mean one thing. You are the tiny seed stuck between our cogs. The time traveler."

What the flaming fruitcake is this? He knows about her?

"Have we met?" she asks guardedly.

"No, not in person. But I know of you. Battlefields apart always but stories were told nevertheless. I had wondered if I would encounter you here. I'm so very glad you did. I will enjoy squashing out the last remnant of rebellion against us."

"No you don't!" I holler as I run at him. "Lucina, Owain, rush him now! He can't cast if both of his arms are occupied!"

I don't aim to get in a killing blow at first. What I want to know is how much armor he's got on so I can find the weak points and exploit them. Mages don't usually wear any because they need arm flexibility. In addition, armor blocks one's ability to feel the natural swell of magic. Clothing offers little to no resistance while full plate armor cause boat loads of mental static. So this guy can't be toting too much.

Lucina and Owain work in a deadly dance around him keeping him occupied. He's always a step out of Lucina's reach while simultaneously using his arms to block Owain's sword. Taking his blows head on means he's got some serious gauntlet power and muscle strength in his arms. Never pictured Mr. Universe taking up magic but I guess there's a first for everything. Working around them, I take advantage of their timing to rush in between with some experimentative jabs.

One to the ribs and it rebounds! So he's got a chest piece? How's that fit under his robe? Okay, let's try the upper thigh. What the heck? There too? Alright, try the middle of his upper bicep. Unless he's got a full arm piece on, I'll hit there.

He doesn't even try to stop me! And once again, I just deflect right off of him. What's going on here? I would think him in a fully body suit but he's moving too well. And there's no metallic sound when I hit. I don't- Ooph!

I hit the ground a few feet away, winded.

T-that wasn't a smart move. I hesitated too much. Ow. It feels like I took a cannonball to the chest. He kicks hard. Shoot, I need to get to my sword! Lost my grip on it when I went flying.

"I tire of this!"

I raise my head just in time to see Lucina and Owain both get shoved violently back. Like me, they hit the floor hard.

Letum walks forward and catches sight of my dropped sword beneath his feet. He bends down and a dark wave of light passes over his hand. My mouth drops as I watch the spell encase my weapon. Slowly it begins to rust and corrode. He doesn't stop until the metal is completely gone and falls apart like dust in his hand.

"Shit."

"This is the best you have to offer me? I wonder how you lasted so long in rebellion."

With both hands drawn together, he pushes them forward and I watch in horror as a sigil appears.

"Guys!" I holler in warning. "Guys, look out!"

They climb to their feet just as the runes burst. Black light streams out and starts to swirl faster and faster in a sphere. Beads of darkness begin to form off the pattern. They tug and pull away, wobbling as they become bigger and bigger. Shadows form in the dark cloud and I can hear a low droning. Sounds like flies.

With terrifying speed, the spell blasts forward straight at them.

Lucina barely reacts in time to it. She pulls Falchion in an upward chop that goes right through the middle of the cloud. It splits into two smaller ones and a slew of bulbous mutated insects fall to the floor before disappearing in a swirl of smoke. My brief feeling of triumph is quickly wiped away when the two halves start to move independently of each other. In fact, it's much worse now. Both halves rush the two cousins and engulf them completely!

I shout out in horror as I bolt toward them.

I hear Lucina grunt in pain before taking another wild swing at the swarm buzzing around her. As I get closer, I can see welts and tiny puncture marks appearing in excess over her skin. Owain fairs no better. Unlike Lucina's sword, his weapon is having no affect whatsoever on the pests. It's only agitating them more.

Curious. Both mine and Owain's weapons did nothing to this man. Yet he's avoided Falchion and his spells are harmed by it. I wonder if it's because of that holy juju the sword's packing. Gah, no more time to theorize. I have to move!

Diving forward, I reach Lucina and I punch into the cloud in hopes of knocking one out of the air.

Noxious fumes enter my nose and cause me to gag. My weak attack ends prematurely as I go to cover my nose and back away. As I look down while hacking, I find two big insectoid eyes glaring up at me.

I shriek and throw my arm out. I shake it wildly but the stupid little demon won't come off. In fact, I feel prickly hair extend through the material of my coat. A second later, searing pain as it slams its pincers down into my skin.

I let out a cry and slam the back of my arm into a stone support column nearby. The mushy body explodes under impact and spreads green slime all over the surface. I repeat the gesture twice more just to make sure it's dead. The mangled pieces burst into purple smoke and drift away, though the goop still remains.

The priest continues to have complete control over the swarm. Looking back to the two kids, I'm horrified to see he's already subdued them. Lucina is held aloft only by her sword and Owain's already on his knees. The combination of smoke and attacks are too much.

What kind of crazy priest is this? He's like end game strong. How could anyone survive this? Duh, they can't. We severely underestimated this man's capabilities.

This is seriously not happening right now. No. Not again.

I can't let this happen. Not them. Anyone but the kids. They of all people don't deserve this! Gods! I have to stop that spell! If I can disrupt his concentration for even a second then they should be freed!

Whirling around, I charge head on. Consequences be damned! My life means nothing when compared to Lucina's! To Owain's. I refuse to let them die! I refuse, damn it! So get your filthy spell off of them!

Bright, golden eyes stare down at me in a brief moment of surprise, followed by contempt. The priest reacts too late in his attempt to recover, apparently not expecting me to just barrel into him. I throw out both arms and wrap them around his waist, tackling him back several feet toward the back of the hall until we slam into the wall. He doesn't even make a sound on impact.

What is that smell? Ugh. It's like ash and rotten leaves.

The feeling of magic slips back into the void and I know I've successfully broken his hold. Doesn't mean I have to stop there though. I gather all my strength and push away, launching myself sideways in an attempt to throw him on he ground. He's bulkier than his robes account for and I only end up causing him to stumble when we separate. Trying to stay on the initiative, I curl my hand into a fist and drive it straight for his gut.

Holy Funions! That hurts!

My mouth hangs open wordlessly in pain as I grip my throbbing hand in the other. I stumble back holding it out in disbelief. This guy gives washboard abs a whole new meaning. Gods! Ow!

"Insolent pest."

The pain in my hand rotates to my neck as something clamps hard around it. Frick! Ouch! Let go!

My feet leave the ground as his iron grip drags me up. My throat begins to burn as he tightens his hold. Stars erupt before me and a strangled gasp erupts from me as my spine sparks in pain as it makes contact with the wall. The smell of musty earth and death wraps around me as the man leans in.

I...I'm starting to get dizzy. This isn't good. I try to kick him in the leg, torso, anywhere. Nothing seems to faze him. He's not wearing armor at all. It's like his very skin is rough and solid.

Through a cracked eye I get a good look at his face. Dark skin that's weathered from days in the wind. A crooked nose. Dark beard with lips so thin they seem nonexistent. And those eyes. Bright and ethereal. Almost...not human. And familiar? Why does he seem so familiar?

"Wh...o..." I strain out.

Something on his face changes. The contempt gives way to confusion. The grip slackens just enough to breath easier. Reaching back behind me, I feel him grab hold of my coat. With a firm jerk of the material my hood falls away leaving me exposed.

"Well now, what providence is this?" He remarks with a quiet laugh coupled on the end. "It seems the gambit finally paid off."

I find myself lowered back to my feet and I stumble away from him. Looking over my shoulder, I see Lucina and Owain's crumpled forms free of the spell. They're barely moving save for the rise and fall of their chests. They're alive.

I can't help but turn a burning glare of defiance on the man beside me as I massage my throat. "You-you-"

I can't even form words with how much anger and rage I'm feeling at him. This is all your fault! What do you want? Why do this?

"Why?" my voice crackles.

Those eyes of his, burning like a devil's light, ensnare me. "Why? Can you not tell me?"

There's something weird about the way he speaks. It's like when you watch a foreign movie that's been dubbed over and there's parts where the voice stops but the actor's mouth keeps moving. Letum's voice projects but sometimes he's still finishing a syllable. His actions lag behind his actual words. How is that possible? Am I seeing things?

The sounds of the royals' fight against Validar echo over the crackle of the flames. Shatters of magic, the clang of a sword, a heated exchange of words. I wonder if they're fairing any better. Save a slice for me guys, if I get out of this still standing.

"You're here to kill Emmeryn. Her family too. And Validar, he's here for the Fire Emblem, isn't he?"

The priest reclines his head back and looks down at me in thought. He looks slightly disturbed with my answer.

"A jest, I hope? You may drop your facade if that is what you are doing. There is no one here left to play service to."

"I'm not joking." Pieces click into place. Things that Marc kid said and ideas Lucina bounced around during our meetings. "You...you think I'm just playing the role of Robin. I'm just wearing her mask."

A flicker of triumph in his barely there smile. "Not think, I know. Your memories are damaged but I assure you that I am here as your most humble ally."

"You need not hide anymore. Don't you understand, Great One? The man over there is merely a cover. His petty desires and that of his king are nothing to us. Our true intentions should be clear."

I feel ill. It's obvious what his next words are.

"This was a rescue mission. Your servants have come back for you as we said we would. We lost you for a short time but we have returned." Letum extends a hand. His fingers uncurl, gnarled and pointed at the tips. This priest isn't' human. He isn't like me. I need to get away from him.

"Come. Let the humans play their silly games. It is time you return to your true kin."

The flashback thunders in, flashing like lighting. The night air cold and unwelcoming. The creak of the front door. Figures in the night. One laughing before I fade away. Two pinpricks of yellow in the night looking down on me.

"No more of your petty games. It's time to go home."

My feet take me backward, step by giant step. I backpedal as far as I can from him with face painted in fear. I can't go with him. I can't!

"You. It was you. You took me away. You took me from my home."

His eyes dim as his face falls. The priest's hand retracts into his sleeve and he watches me scurry away in disappointment.

"No, Master. We saved you."

A wild urge to run far away wells up in me. I'm a trapped animal scurrying to get out of its cage. I can't remember but I know it's true. This man is the reason I'm here! I was kidnapped. But why me? I'm nothing!

"What did you do to me?" I yell at him, my voice quaking in accusation. I lift my right hand and pull off the glove to expose my hand and the brand upon it. "Why do this to me? Am I some substitute? A convenient replacement? Why me?"

The priest sighs in defeat, his sleeves coming together as he claps his hands together. "This...is unfortunate. The things you ask of me, do you mean them?"

"Of course you contemptuous ass! You think I'm asking them just to waste my breath?"

"It seems my fears are realized. You shell has damaged you. Changed you." The sleeves part once more and he raises his hands. "I feared you accusation at first were merely from the disillusionment of your journey back. But it seems the truth is much heavier."

Red alert! Abandon ship! I start to back away in fear as the air starts to crackle with negative energy.

"Your shell is rebellious and loud. You are broken and confused. Know that it is with the gravest displeasure that I must do this Master. It is only through force that we can reclaim you now. Do not resist or it will hurt. And my deepest apologies for having to do this."

There's a weird gleam in his eye. Something in me, but isn't me, makes an accusation.

He doesn't mean it. He isn't sorry in the least. He'll relish this.

I have a split second to look down and see the dark pool spread around my feet. Tendrils shoot out and wrap around my ankles. I choke out a fearful sound of alarm as they slither up my body and constrict hard as they go.

I never understood how people could describe 'cold fire.' Not until I worked in the bakery for the first time. I went to pull a rack from the freezer that had been sitting in there overnight. It's usually at a constant of ten below. Like a moron, I grabbed the metal sides with no protective gloves. The burn on my hands after a few seconds was indescribable. It wasn't the same as when you touch a hot rack (also stupidly experienced a short time before) but it was a burning sensation nonetheless.

Whatever was working against me, it was the same feeling as that rack but amplified by one hundred. Fear takes hold and I can't help but wriggle in an attempt to free myself.

The shriek of pain that comes out of me is unlike anything I've ever made. A zap of the most intense pain I...I...I can't focus. It's not just burning, it's squeezing. My bones are starting to creak as pressure is put down on them. This pain...Good gods above! Make it stop!

Is he laughing? Maybe I'm just hearing thing- Ah God! Why? Couldn't you have picked some other spell? You bast-Ah!

There's a red haze around my sight and my brain is on overload. A weak and pitiful sob comes out as I barely have the energy to do so. I'm breathless from pain.

So much pain. Can't even...words...Someone...Stop, please!

M-make it stop! End it!

Please. Someone. Don't let him take me! Not again!

Help!

Floodgates to my senses open. A great rattling gasp of air hits my ears as I drink in oxygen. My body numbly crumples to the ground. I hurt. Everything hurts.

I weakly push away from the floor and roll on my side. My head rests limply against the tile and I can barely open my eyes. A figure stands before me. Familiar.

Shadows slither away from me like snakes and collect under the priest's clothing. The spell is broken.

"-hat insolence is-"

"-hurting her-"

"-inal warning. I will no-"

I give a pathetic attempt to sit up and only manage to prop up on an elbow. The static in my head is painful and loud. It makes it hard to concentrate. But I have to. Someone stopped the spell. There's arguing but I can't make out everything. I need to pull together.

"Try me you ugly-"

"-irst him and now yo-"

"-told you I'd interfere if you-

"-tire of this. I tire of y-"

There's a powerful surge of energy from before me.

"-ould have killed yo-"

A flash of strong light.

"Enough," Letum hisses deeply. His voice rolls like an tremor deep underground.

Stronger energy erupts and I feel the collision of it pushing up against something.

A second later, everything turns upside down.

This bizarre shock wave rips through me. My eyesight clears and the thrumming in my head is wiped clean in one cold splash of emotion. My throat closes as my very breath and heart stop. An echo of something powerful comes up through my core.

Stark cold fear.

Looking forward, the heavy weight of realization crashes down on me.

It's a girl before me. In familiar armor. She lies unmoving in a twisted heap nearby.

I don't understand these weird sensations in me but they begin to gnaw and gnaw and gnaw. Eating away at me as I suddenly taste blood in my mouth. The smell is in my nose and the stickiness on my fingertips. I know things I'm not experiencing. How? I...

I feel alarm and fear because I know her and owe her. She stopped Letum. She saved me. Again! And now. Now she's...That man...

Why are you here? Why are you doing this for me? Why do you know him? I push these mental thoughts at her as if expecting her bloodied body to answer.

What's going on? I don't understand anything. What do I do? I don't know! What can I do? Something? But I don't know what that something is! Somebody do something!

All the feeling in my muscles is gone and my legs feel like jelly. I try to stand and shuffle off kilter before falling face first again. Woman, get up right now! Don't you dare punk out now! You still have two arms and legs so use them. Help the kids. Distract the bad guy. React! Move!

My breaths are uneven and my teeth grind together as I try to push up again. I need to do something.

My situation is precarious. I need to pick the best option and roll with it. I assess what I can through a hazy field of gaze. There's no hope of getting help from the royals. I'm not even sure if they are aware of my status. The fire between us burns strong and keeps us separated. Likewise, the barrier around us still holds strong. No backup from Nethys and the others either.

"Lucina?" I croak. "Owain?"

She barely raises her head and I see her cousin stir next to her. She's struggling to stand but her movements are sluggish and slow. That dark magic screwed them up bad. I wonder if their blood makes exposure to such magic much worse. Or is the priest just that strong? Either way, it will still be a bit before either are up and stable.

And the kid in front of me. Is she even alive? She's rolled over with back facing me. I can't tell if she's breathing from this angle. Just looking at her makes my chest burn in a way I haven't felt since my mom died. Cripes. I clutch at my chest and look away. What's wrong with me?

I stagger towards her, a bizarre impulse pushing me forward. Marc. That's your name, isn't it? I finally can call you something and then this happens. This-this bites!

As I get closer, I see her foot shift a little. She's alive?

I stop in my tracks, frozen in horror as I see Letum start to advance on me. I've got only a few seconds to react. No help, no aid. Just me. God, this guy sucks. For someone so big into protecting his so-called master, he's isn't' gentle at all. Worst servant ever.

Wait, over there. Is that...? It is! I didn't even notice but Lucina's Falchion is only a good dive away. If I could get my hands on that they maybe I could protect us. I could fight!

If what I surmised earlier is true, Falchion may be the only thing that could harm him anyway. Lucina is almost on her feet again so if I can even just get one hit in that could hamper his abilities then I can help give her and Owain and edge in combat.

I mean, I know it's not supposed to work with someone whose not of the Exalt's lineage. The blade gets blunt or something. But hey, this is an emergency. Maybe Naga could intervene somehow? Regardless, it's still a weapon. Even a butter knife can kill someone if you push hard enough.

Alright, jerk face. Get ready to taste holy steel!

Throwing him one last glare of defiance, I hurl myself backwards toward the discarded weapon. My fingers slide around it and I quickly look back to see how much time I have to react.

"Ah jeez!"

I rip my hand away from the sword in my hand and start to shake it. Staring down in confusion, I note my exposed hand is rather red and feels warm. Too warm. Like it was starting to heat up. The hell is this now? Did the sword just burn me?

Great, even Falchion's attacking. The whole bleeding world's fighting me.

Letum lets out a strangled sniff and stops a short ways before me. He looks hesitant? His gaze goes right over my shoulder.

"What the-?"

I fall back in surprise. Where the hell did this guy come from? I back-peddle away, kicking the sword along with me.

A tall man kneels wordlessly beside Marc's body. She stirs and murmurs weakly as he looks over her. Then, very gently, he reaches down and picks up her broken body. She sags useless against him.

This new guy is something from nightmares. He-he sort of looks, well I don't know. Just spooky. He's got well fitted black armor etched with an intricate Grimleal design on the metal. A face covering helmet covers his head, masking his identity. When he stands and turns, I can see two blazing red coals underneath it. Eyes like a Risen but far more alive and aware.

He's packing a big spear and sword from the looks of it, the former which he's quietly extracting from his back. Oh. OH! That's bad. I should probably run, right? Those two embers settle on Letum before sweeping over to me.

A wave of extreme distress and rage washes over me, then dissipates as quick as it comes. Like a far off echo that I only catch a glimpse to. Again with this. What am I, some emotional conductor right now? Regardless, I find it hard to look away from this man.

His grip on the girl tightens as he cradles her closer. A low, menacing growl of protest emanates from deep down. I'm hit by a raw wave of power that expels off of him. I flinch away fearing for what he might do to me.

To my surprise, he throws out his spear and aims straight for the priest! Letum barely avoids the attack, dodging just in time as the point slams into and through the floor where he once stood. The point rips through part of his robes showing just how close he came to being punctured by it.

The spear comes up with a great heave of effort spreading debris around. Chains rattle as the pole arm snaps back into the hand of its owner. His weapon has some sort of retracting line attached to it that runs from a line on his back. That'd be totally wicked in my eyes if I weren't scared out of my mind.

His eyes burn into Letum. He sidesteps in a semi-circle around the priest, spear twirling upright again before sliding down into a more comfortable position in his hand.

"He's protecting Marc," I say in awe as I watch the knight make another threatening jab. "Oh, this is weird. Lucina says she's a Grimleal and Letum is a Grimleal. Yet they aren't allies? I don't get it."

Is there some animosity between the ranks? Clearly the kid didn't like how he was going about handling me. And this new guy doesn't seem too fond of Letum's treatment of Marc.

Speaking of, he's eyeing me again. He does this while guiding Letum around. It's like he trying to get my attention. But we lose sight of each other as soon as the priest's back is to me.

...

Letum's back is to me.

I have an opening.

I can stab Letum with Falchion and hopefully do some damage. But the burning thing. And just-

What is wrong with me?

I have an opening and I'm just going to sit here and over think things?

Fuck it. Fuck everything.

No more analyzing. Just action. I need to take this priest down a notch.

Fingers lock around Falchion's hilt again and I pull it off the ground. Pinpricks of pain begin to ignite on the pads of my fingers. Two steps later it starts to heat up considerably. So much so I have to stop and rip my uncovered hand away. Skin is starting to pop up white and puffy on bottom of my thumb. The material on my still gloved one is starting to grow hot now too. I can smell the material starting to fry. I can't believe it. Falchion is burning me. It's not only rejecting me, it's harming me!

But I need it. It's the only weapon I have. This blows. Do you know how much this going to hurt? Ah, fudge it. Who needs hands anyway?

Other Falchion is heavy in my hands, a weighty sword bigger than what I'm use to. It takes quite a bit of effort to hold it up proper and prevent it from dragging. And at the rate I'm going, this thing won't be in my hands for long.

I bolt as fast as I can, raising it up as I go. Every footstep is another second. Every second the burn in my hands grow. There's an ominous hiss and I see smoke starting to rise form the corner of my eye.

Oh God. Shoot. That's starting to hurt! I...Gah...Shit. Ow. OW.

"Ngh." My discomfort turns into long whine of pain as the burn in my palms starts to become unbearable. It's beyond hot! This stupid sword is burning my hands straight through! Ah, gods!

Tears are coming unbidden by the time the priest turns in shock and I bury myself into his body. Falchion shutters violently, as if repulsed by the very action of piercing through this vile man.

I withdraw my hold and stumble away, hands out and open as I fall to my knees in pain.

"Goddammit. Son of a...Shit!"

I rock on my heels, head buried in my knees as my hands lie throbbing in pain. Red and blistering in places, it's a horrific mess. I can still flex and feel but just barely. Holy hell, my left hand hurts. The right, not so much anymore. It's just kind of numb. That's bad, isn't it.

Can't believe I did that. Moron.

I can hear the priest beside me hissing in a language I'm not familiar with. It's not modern Akaneian, that's for sure. He doesn't sound too pleased either. The occasional groan of pain is evidence enough. He pulls the sword out like a toothpick and casts it aside.

My laugh is hysterical as I stare in disbelief. "You're...joking."

The priest glares down at his chest. Thick dark sludge drops out of the hole I made and onto the floor. That's normal. Totally human.

He presses a hand to it to stem the flow. He looks to know one but his words seem to be for my new friend. "You dare disobey. I warned you. The-" he winces and his hand crushes into a fist and he stagger. "You have disrupted the mission. Do you want us to lose the Great One again?"

No words. I'm beginning to wonder if this other guy speaks at all. He disregards Letum and continues to stare past him at me. It's not malicious or anything. It just is.

What do you want from me?

Footsteps, thundering and loud, interrupt the staring contest.

"Robin, move!" A flash of blue blurs past me as Lucina stumbles through a run toward Letum. She nearly drops Falchion as she scoops it up and draws it at a steep angle.

But the damage has been done. The wound in Letum drags him down and he can't move away. So even when Lucina trips, she's still able to drives the the blade through the middle of his stomach. With a roar, his hand snaps around the blade and holds it from burying into him. I can hear Lucina struggle to beat his grip. Her toes dig into the ground as she starts to slide from the pressure of trying to fight back. She needs more power.

Criminy. I gotta help.

Slipping to a stand, I summon all my willpower and strength for one final push. Don't fail me now body. I know I've crammed you with one too many cream puffs over the years but there's still some part of an Olympic runner's capability in there. Adrenaline is the only thing keeping me up and that's only giving me borrowed time. Guess I have to make the most of it. Charge!

I barrel forward and push my raw and cracked hands forward. I whine in pain as I wrap around Lucina's hands and use my forward momentum to drag both of us forward. The added surprise of weight overcomes our enemy's strength and Falchion plunges all the way into him. We don't stop there though. We push and tumble forward driving the blade straight home.

It's hard to even think anymore with how much pain I'm in. It's not my hands anymore. It's everything else. My nerves? I don't know. But I can't let go. That means death. Take the pain. Deal with it. Heaven help me though! This pain. It's excruciating.

The world goes upside down as we all trip over a raised lip on the ground. I lose my grasp on Falchion and fall over into the fountain we've tumbled into. My face goes half under before I rise out of it, a half screech and half sob of pain erupting from me as my hands hit the marble in an automatic reflex to catch myself.

My head is a mess! This goddamn pain is screwing with my perception. The weight of my soaked clothing holds me down as I try to rise from the fountain. Oh my God. My hands. I pull them up from the water. I flinch and looks away as a wave of nausea hits me.

I crack an eye open and see Letum skewered still by the sword poking from his chest. Lucina's kept her grip on her weapon as has him pinned underneath the water spout of the fountain we tripped in. In the stumble Lucina has lost her mask. Bare faced and hair around her face in tangles, she glares with a burning hatred at him.

Gods, she really does look like Chrom.

The statue of Naga stands above us, pouring down water from a jar to the lower level we sit in. It splashes into the water, mixing with the dark fluid leaking from under the priest. He's bleeding out and still moving. That priest is still alive. Why? How? Nothing makes sense.

Lucina moves her gaze from the priest to the statue's. Her voice rings out fierce in a loud plea to her protector.

"Naga, hear me. I beseech your aid is this time of need. Your enemy stands before you covered in the blood of your children and bedecked in the sigil of humanity's greatest enemy. I present him before you for justice in the name of those who fell for his wicked machinations. If you have the power, then use it forthwith! May your judgment ring swift and true in our hour of need!"

"Pray all you wish, human child. There is but one true God of this world. And when the Ascension comes, see where your Naga is then as you lie scrambling like the rodents you are!" The priest's booming bass rings out.

"That's be a cold day in the seven hells when I let that happen," I choke out in anger as I lift myself from the water and onto the edge.

The priest looks at me and then begins to laugh. Louder and louder he goes until it's nothing but a maniacal overture humming in my ears.

"We will never let that happen!" she cries, voice cracking with emotion. Lucina pushes harder into him causing him to choke off in pain. Part of his shoulder submerges under the water pouring from Naga's jar. In seconds, I note a bizarre reaction occurring. Like Falchion's earlier response to me, the water begins to smoke and hiss wherever it touches him. Looking down, I see the water pouring forth looks different from what's below me. It's crystal clear and seems to glow with a bluish hue underneath the ripples.

I let out a laugh that quickly ends in a gasp of pain. I can't believe it. It's a bloody miracle. That's some good junk I'd never be able to think up. Naga's actually helping in her own way.

Seeing the reaction, Lucina pushes all her weight into him to submerge whatever she can. The reaction is instantaneous. The calm veneer of the priest is gone. What's left is desperate flailing and hoarse cries that go in an out as he chokes on the waterfall power.

Lucina flinches and lets out a wordless cry as he pushes her violently away. She tumbles back over the fountain and slides onto the floor. Free of her weight, he reaches out and pulls against the sword. Falchion's reaction is even more violent to him. Smoke rises white and billowing as the priest lets out a large roar while pulling it from his body. With a mighty heave, he hurls it away. The water pouring over his shoulders is smoking and slowly eating away at his skin. It's like Naga's dumping a vial of holy water on his demonic ass.

"Wretches! All of you! How dare you attempt to strike down Grima's right hand!"

The priest snarls and waves out blindly, his vision cut and obscured by the now blistering skin keeping one shut. He takes a step forward, ragged robes dragging behind him.

No! He's going to escape. I...I...

God, why do I feel like this is going to hurt.

I slide my legs back over the edge and put my feet back in the water. Immediately the water begins to hiss around me. I can feel the magic boiling away at me. I ignore the damage and trudge toward him. My...damn it...so dizzy...my useless hands barely function. They can't grab, only catch loose cloth. Still, that's enough.

My control gives out and my weight drags the priest back down with me. He lands back first and his whole head goes under. I...sweet heaven I can't do this...but I need to...

Somehow I throw myself on him. I-I get my knees on to his shoulders and hold him under. The smell is terrible. The pain is...can I even feel anymore? Just keep holding him.

God! Why are you still moving! Why can't you die already?! Naga, keep me awake until he's dead. I...

I'm...I'm dizzy...everything is starting to get real far away.

I'm knocked back by a heavy eruption beneath me and slam my head into something.

I don't even feel it. Am I burning up too? Probably? Damn fell blood I bet. Bet Naga's laughing on her perfect godly arse right now. Rude.

Can't blame her though. Kill a Grimleal screwpot and Grima's only means of resurrection? I'd highly protest the last part but whatever. She still got me. Two birds and one stone.

Something hard is digging into my cheek. I feel the marble of the statue and realize I must have slipped to the side. Funny, she's not cold. In fact, very warm. There's a deep sound coming from inside. Like breathing. I'm hallucinating? Dreaming? Dying?

Somehow my eyes, glazed over as they are, look up at her face. Man, I am dying. She just blinked. And smiled. Masochist. Y-you like watching me suffer? If I had...had control of my hands I'd... smack...you stupid... Then thank you... for...Then ...then...

"-et her out!-"

Far away...Lucina?

I...tried...

Did better than my...first...lunatic...attempt...

...wish I could have...made...it...

Home.

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A/N: IT'S OVER. Over 18,000 words but it's over!

This was one heck of a finale. I wanted to do so much but still ended up cutting things! Primarily it was themed to light versus dark. Not just in the sense of the magic, which I tried to get in depth with, but also characters too. Exploring good and bad aspects of themselves. Robin's devotion making her an exceptional ally but also her demonstrating her rash and sometimes self-destructive tendencies. Emmeryn's powerful leadership but also her facing the repercussions of poor security decisions. Chrom's fiercely protective nature that can sometimes cloud his judgment when he doesn't step back to think. Stuff like that. Robin also took a backseat to things this chapter so others could stand out. Maybe it's just me but I love Emmeryn. She has all my respect and deserves some limelight. And also some answers to some questions? Or maybe not. Who know? Either way, a deeply observational and lore heavy chapter. Overall I tried some new things with this three-part event and learned a lot as a writer. Good times.

So Happy belated New Year everyone!

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Review Responses -

Titan127 - Wow, glad you liked the late night read. I, uh, hope the exams were just as easy as you thought, ha ha! I liked the flashback in regards to Robin's mother as well. Half because punky preteen Robin and the other because her mom's just a cool person. My favorite part honestly.

When the Moon Met the Sun - Ah, yes. That was a grueling chapter to write. Intense is the perfect word for it. It started off fine and the more I wrote, the more I was like, "Whoooa. Heavy." It's a relief that I managed to get some of my intent across. Phew. The emotions were hardest to envision and describe cause she's just in such a scary place to be. Definitely a new writing experience!

tsubamehayakaze- Happy to oblige the shippers when I can. I'm guilty of cheering myself for certain pairings sometimes so I understand the fuzzy feelings :) And I put a lot of effort into the characters so continually making them likeable and deep is rewarding to hear. It's funny everyone thinks Miriel is the hardest to write. I think the stoics (ala Lon'qu, Gerome, etc.) are the hardest for me! I try to write the intense stoicism and usually end up with an emotionless board!

You know, I don't remember either of those supports! I'll have to go back and reread them again!

Alucard45 - I assume by mechanic you're talking about the map? Ah, that was a tricky detail in the story that I spent quite a few nights brainstorming, for the exact reason you mentioned. Since this is a woman with no talents in war whatsoever, I had to give her some chance for survival. Warriors use a sword as their main tool, mages have tomes, healers have staves, etc. So what could an intellectual game master use? Soon after the map was born!

Well, I'm glad you felt as taxed emotionally as I felt writing it. That was the point! Fighting isn't always as glorious as movies and comics make it sometimes. It's dirty, scarring, and all together nasty. And as mediocre fighter going in strong with not enough training, Robin was bound to make rookie mistakes. I feel bad she set herself up for failure, but realistically (at least for someone such as myself) that's probably what would happen.

As for the grankiddies part, you're spot on. Robin is still clinging to the hope of returning home. She's still got a few loved ones and an empty bakery left back home she can go back to. Whether she finds a way back is something to discover further down the line!

Raiden312 - Thank you! Robin's emotional connection to the events around her is a big part of differentiating her from other Robin and the looming legacy of Grima. She's no genius puppet master nor some omnipotent god being. Just a simple being desperately grasping to her frail humanity. A big struggle last chapter for sure.

Adapting spells is actually pretty fun. Nosferatu's influence stems from the character who wields it, a reference to his name and symbolic meaning. I thought it reflected his personality as well.

Ensu - No problem! I'm just glad you're still reading and enjoying the chapters! It's always good to hear back from old faces though.

Yes, there were some hardcore feels going on here. All three chapters smacked me pretty hard in the face. The second part was definitely the hardest but this chapter was special in it's own way. It's all been draining in the best way possible!

Steve - Hey, nice to meet you! Glad to hear from one of the stealth readers now and again! And thank you! Realism is a strong pillar I try to maintain in the story. That includes the negative bits like last chapter. It's certainly a challenge and an experience to write but well worth it. I agree that details like that help make the story richer, especially when they're character driven. While there is a plot, most events ride on the emotional and social evolutions among the cast. It's important to keep them growing and expanding!

Don't worry, Gaius will be around a lot. And there's plenty of mischief for him to sow ;)

timewastin - I'll just say that Robin's mysterious nature isn't being fully ignored among the Shepherds. We'll see more of that later on.

A Shadow's Lament - I looked up what an IABP is and...well. I can see why it's rather unsettling. I give you a lot of credit for working in the medical field. I'd never survive with how squeamish I am. Scarred myself silly trying to look up references on medieval war wounds. Ugh.

Gosh, aren't you right on the omnipotent player part. I didn't think I'd be hitting up stuff this deep. It's interesting and sort of philosophical. Makes you dig in and question yourself in scenarios you'd never faced before. Wouldn't trade the experience for anything!

RoseNitemare - Alas, poor Robin indeed. This night's events won't leave her so easily. She'll definitely be dwelling on them for a while. As to whether she'll open up to the others more in depth later, most likely. She already mentioned it in this chapter and will ponder on it more in private later. That'll be...fun to write. I'm going to go stock up on Disney movies to watch in the aftermath of writing that angst fest XD

Caught some of those pesky errors. Thanks for the heads up!

The Giant Rock - First off, I hope your exams went well!

On the contrary, your post was very insightful and I'm glad you wrote it. Half of what you wrote is true. I did want to show Robin as having progressed somewhat as a fighter since she came to Ylisse. She has been training every day, if not every other. My intent in the chapter with her solo fight was to show she's developed a style of her own. Quick, observant, and one that dispatches enemies by their strategic weak points. Also, I wanted to show she can handle herself against the everyday weedy mercenary. Her victory wasn't really one at all. It just proves she's as competent as the brigands in the first chapter. Progress?

Her downing the priest so easily was actually an oversight on my part, so I thank you for bringing that up. I wasn't actually clear in what I wrote and wanted to intend. The priest essentially let her kill him which I forgot to allude to. I'm a dunce. I've tweaked the dialogue to hopefully imply more so that he just let her. Why would he do that? Lore reasons I'll explain in another chapter but in a nutshell: the Grimleal aspire to take as many down with them as possible and then themselves in order to fuel Grima's revival with their life force. So Robin did the priest a favor. He would have wiped the floor with her otherwise if he wanted to. Sort of like what happened in this chapter...Poor thing.

Regardless, I omitted some of the things that fueled your case and reworked a few paragraphs. So thank you again. Honest feedback like that helps make the story all the better! And holy cow, if you're talking about the recs page I think you are...well I'd be more honored than you could believe. Humbled. Thank you very, very much. I'll do my best to keep up the gold standard.

BrowncoatJedi - Thanks for review 250! Whoo! The honor is all yours!

Ah ha ha, I have nothing to argue with the oversight you found. It does seem redundant when I reread it. I don't even remember what I was using as my line of logic for that. I have notes somewhere but...whatever! Thanks for pointing it out. I'll comb through it and omit the what doesn't make sense.

Robin's melt down will forever be one of my least favorite and simultaneously favorite things to have ever written. It does tie her a little to close to Other Robin, doesn't it. Maybe they really aren't that different, you could be right. In that case, our Robin better watch herself!

You know, a lot of people seem to have liked the reunion scene. I wonder why? XD