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

(Author's Note: I'm going out of town sooner than I thought so I apologize for any lingering errors or unresponded messages as I'm posting this so quickly. I'll be back come Sunday. Thanks.)

Chapter 50

It's quiet up on the interior keep's battlements. Not a soul can be see about. Perhaps what's most at fault is the activity occurring in the courtyard below where Maribelle is assembling Flavia's welcoming ceremony. I peer through the crenel and rest upon it, watching the ants busying themselves below. Figures run to and fro, a mixture of civilians and castle guards rushing to finish their work for fear of the Duchess' wrath. Though speaking of, the lack of Maribelle's signature pink is missing in the crowd. She was there a moment ago. I wonder where she's rushed off to?

A cold mountain breeze rushes up the wall and flows over me. The smell is clean and crisp, to the point of stinging the inside of my nose. It carries away the sounds of activity below leaving me momentarily suspended in the quiet solitude that haunts the space between these crags. I can see now why the wife of the very first Warden asked for the keep to be made the way it was. One can feel disjointed from all the chaos below.

"Up here, you could almost forget a war is going on," I say to no one in particular, though I'm far from alone.

Gaius rests the weight of his forearm against the wall and peers down alongside me. "It's funny. Never thought I'd see myself in a place like this."

"A fancy keep?"

Gaius shakes his head. He withdraws from the sightseeing and nestles up against the stone backdrop. He folds his arms over his chest, resting back to look up at the sky. A heavy blanket of clouds start to move in, the ones on the horizon heavy and dark with the promise of rain. "Nah, I'm talking about working for the other side of the law. Usually don't mingle with the enemy." He rolls the sucker in his mouth between his teeth, biting down with an accentuated crunch. "Now I've got a future magistrate putting gold in my pocket and Exalt herself pointing where to die. Of all the luck."

I lean out further watching a group of ten struggling to bring some sort of raised wooden platform out. A castle maid follows with nervous steps, a heavy cloth spilling out of her arms and tripping her underfoot. "Makes sense. At the beginning of the year, I was still kneading dough into bread and putting frosting to cakes."

Gaius spits the stick out of his mouth landing it at an impressive length away from us. "If there is some almighty Naga watchin' over us little folk on the ground here, she sure knows how to mess up a man's day. This divine intervention junk can count me out."

My lip quivers at the irony, my feelings mirroring his own in so many ways. "I feel the same, you have no idea."

Gaius looks at me from the corner of his eye, then turns his head to face the opposite direction. He grows pensive for a moment, eyes murky with thought. It's followed by a sharp intake of breath and a quick retreat from his spot. Gaius rubs the underside of his chin, his movements jerking with what I assume is bottled up apprehension of what's to come. My thoughts are only confirmed by the barely constrained, but surprisingly level way he jumps into the conversation.

"So, we going to make small talk as nobles do or get on with this?"

I almost laugh.

I pat my hands against the stone in no particular rhythm before pushing myself away. Right. Business. Folding my hands together, I bury them deep between my conjoined sleeves to block out the nip in the air. Whereas the caves were damp and wet, the air out here is icy and pokes like a knife at the skin. "If that's how you want it to be, I'll get to it then. I'll just point out the obvious."

I breath out. "Chalard's dead."

Unlike before, Gaius doesn't flinch. He doesn't react much at all. He moves mechanically, his hands wandering toward anything to keep busy, whether to adjust his cloak or something else. "Deader than the dead, though that's turning out to be a load of crock lately."

I don't have to say anything. This is up to him. I know the facts, but it isn't my job to defend his innocence. My silence, or perhaps my look alone, is what causes the discomfort to start forming on his face. Gaius' nerves show in just how frequently he turns to snacks and distractions to help him stay cool. His fingers immediately slip into the folds of his cloak, disappearing into one of the pouches on his belt.

"You're a smart gal, Bubbles. More observant than most. Guess that's tough luck for me. You hid it pretty well today, but you still tried too hard to look inconspicuous."

"I'm not the best liar sometimes," I admit. I can play up to a stranger just fine, but I can't seem to convince those I'm close to. Perhaps it's my own innate hesitation to fool someone I trust. I'd rather be truthful than not.

"Luckily, your job doesn't require you to be. Not all the time, anyway." Gaius turns his back to me, walking off a short distance down the battlements. His left hand retracts from his side, a single coin stuck between his thumb and forefinger. It tumbles between his fingers, a blur of metallic gold dancing about. Occasionally he catches it, flicking it up in the air before catching it entirely and starting the act all over again.

"Is that some roundabout way of admitting to it? Am I right to suspect something?" I question him, scrutinizing his every move.

He laughs dryly. "You're asking a man who makes his living off stealing from people to admit to something?" Gaius' amusement falters when faced against my own sincerity. For once, I'm not in any good humor. The fact takes us both by surprise. Unable to maintain an atmosphere he's in control of, Gaius' confidence drops. "Aw c'mon, don't look at me like that."

A part of me dislikes the severity I'm exhibiting. What I wouldn't do to try to add some levity back into the situation. I know I can trust him. I consider him a friend. But the part of me that's been conditioned these past months, the one who has become a lieutenant and tactician of the Shepherds, tells me to hold back. A man is dead, deplorable as he may have been. The situation needs to be addressed. I bite back the jokes and press him harder.

"Gaius," I chastise him sharply, the tone so alien coming from my own mouth.

He snaps his wrist through the air, catching the coin a final time. Gaius holds his palm open to look at it, before shutting it tightly. He tucks his hand in and turns away, his green cloak whirling around him. He walks a short distance to the opposing wall where the junction of the battlements meet. "I suppose since the guard hasn't hauled me away yet you don't plan on snitching." He pauses. "Not yet anyway."

I bite the corner of my lip, choosing my words carefully. "You're right. There's still something I need before I can act."

"Ah." Gaius' shoulders fall and his voice stiffens. "Thought so."

I'm left oblivious to his thoughts, my gaze one of confusion. "You thought what?"

Gaius raises both hands, shrugging off the situation in defeat. "No need to play coy. I've been around long enough to know how these things work." He continues to stare out over the edge of the wall, his fingers waving me on. "Just lay it on me. I'd rather cut to the chase and avoid all the false pleasantries."

I guess he means what he did before, to just be blunt about it. No pleasantries, all business. I rub my gloved hands over my arms, trying to built up some warmth between the friction of the material and my skin. "Fine. Why did you do it?"

Gaius' whole body shakes as if in surprise, his head quickly shooting a look over his shoulder. " 'scuse me?"

"Why did you kill Chalard?" I take a step forward, boldly staring him down despite my insides shaking. The buzz of adrenaline hums inside, the anticipation of what I may do next setting my mind alight with possibilities. "Straight up. Be real with me, Gaius. This doesn't seem like you. I know you have some sort of moral compass inside of you. Mindlessly killing a defenseless prisoner is-"

"Let's be frank," Gaius quickly cuts in, swiping his arm through the air. He evens the distance, a stark difference in the presentation of his body language. He's on the defensive now. "You know nothing about me. Don't make presumptions you can't back up."

Gaius stops shy of me, an arm's length between us. He pats his chest, pulling back his cloak to show off the array of tools on his belt."I'm a thief, remember? A gutter rat. Slippery scum. The seedy side of living is what I do."

"You aren't a murderer," I reply staunchly, aware of the irony in me defending his honor when I'm the one in the position of the accuser.

"Naga's ass, Robin." The cracks in his veneer crumble, leaving Gaius clearly troubled and uncomfortable with this whole thing. He runs his fingers through his hair, catching up a ball of strands between them. He turns halfway around, looking as if he wants to walk away. Gaius catches himself, grinding his teeth in agitation. He forces himself to stay put. "I thought I said to skip the lip service. Are we getting on with this thing or what? If you think working my sympathies is going to make things easier, save your breath. I'll do what you want. Just name it."

"What in the gods' names are you talking about? I already told you-" The true intent of his words sinks in. Slowly.

I stare at him, eyes like saucers. Wide in disbelief, my mouth opens and shuts to no words. My guts twists in a ball, constricting from the burning insult heating up my joints. In the back of my mind, I laugh bitterly as the ghost of Robin's own supports come about in an inevitable, yet altered, form once again. A reminder that I have yet to escape her role.

I slap my hand over his mouth, leaning up so he can see every last deepened crease that forms on my beet red, angered face. "You're aren't insinuating...bribery, are you?"

Gaius takes hold of my wrist and pushes it aside, shaking his head loose. He regards me cautiously now, starting to doubt my interest in the subject matter. "You can call it a gift if you're conscience is ratting on you." He mumbles the last part. "Helps sometimes."

"Blackmail!" I yell so loud it startles several birds out of a tree nearby. Gaius jerks back as well, the shrill pitch of my accusation amplified by nature's acoustics. The word bounces across stone, echoing my hurt and frustration for even Naga to hear.

"Yeah?" he stumbles, cowering back. It turns into a full backpedaling as I stalk forward, eyes blazing. I continue to press the advance until I have him backed up against the far wall. "Look, don't blame me. You said it yourself! You said you needed something before you could act on deciding what to do about Chalard."

"Your first thought is that I meant compensation?" I grab him by the collar of his cloak and shake him. "Gaius, I'm not going to blackmail you! Who do you think I am?"

"A reasonably intelligent woman with material needs like anyone else on the planet?" his voice wobbles pathetically between shakes. Gaius manages to finally catch hold of my arms and holds them tightly down despite all my efforts to continue shaking the stupid out of him. "Sorry to say, but you don't seem like the holier-than-thou priest types strutting about. And if I've learned anything over the years, I've found everyone is always in need of something. If they get a chance to have it, they'll take it. Someone's always going to hold something over you for a price."

I'd headbutt him if I could. I seriously, seriously want to. I growl out in frustration, giving up the attack. "What the hell is your problem? How could you think I'd stoop to some gods' awful low like that? I would never in my life think about doing that to someone, let alone a friend and fellow Shepherd! Where's the dignity in that?"

He freezes, a momentary lapse in surprise. Something I said triggers a brief shutdown in him, allowing me to remove myself from his grasp. I twirl around on my heel, stalking away. My retreat is a short one, Gaius quickly regaining control in order to come after me. He skirts around me, walking backwards on my left.

"Jeez, can you calm down a sec?"

I stop and look at him. I clamp my mouth shut, taking a large breath in through my nose. Gaius relaxes a bit as I let out a long, zen-like sigh. Then I open my mouth.

"The first thing that came to your mind was I intended to bribe you with this knowledge!" I resume ranting. He flinches.

"Self-defense," Gaius yells over me. I hold my next line, giving him one chance to defend himself. With precious moments to spare, Gaius presses his angle. "Look, you run in my line of work and that's the norm. It's how you get out of trouble when trouble finds you. Guards, cohorts, even a civilian in the wrong place. What was I supposed to think when you ambiguously hint you 'wanted' something?"

I...

Damn it.

He's probably right. I have to put myself in his shoes. From Gaius' point of view, I think he very well could have misinterpreted my meaning. What else would he think anyway? As much as I know nothing of him, the same can be said in his case. We've worked together, but we're still strangers. In a world where everyone is out for themselves, what would he expect? He has a right to be wary of me and my intentions.

In the background, a few notes of practice from an obscene sounding horn floats upward. The deep bellowing comes in puffs, the sound of a drum rising and falling with it. Is Maribelle really bringing in a band? Both of us find our attention momentarily lost to the bizarre noises, the blurting noise sounding more and more like a bad case of flatulence. The inevitable happens, our eyes connect. I'm holding my breath, fighting back the urge to say something. Gaius raises his eyebrows, losing them under the edge of the head wrapping. Earlier feelings disappear quickly in the wake of this strange interruption.

"What in the hells Maribelle?" I say, rubbing my thumb over the bridge of my nose.

"Girl's got an unhealthy obsession with appearances," Gaius mumbles, equally perturbed.

Having cooled down, the atmosphere shifts back to neutrality. It makes it easier to start the conversation anew, the two of us trying to ignore the accent-laced shouts of the conductor yelling below. We regroup quietly at the edge once more trying not to get further distracted by things. Maribelle really did throw this together awful quickly for a rehearsal.

Gaius takes up a familiar position of comfort standing cross-legged and huddled under his cloak. His head remains bowed.

"So, answers, huh? That's really what you really meant?"

"Yes." I feel very tired all of the sudden. "Nothing sinister about this, aside from the subject matter. I want to have faith you did this for good reason."

"Someone actually has faith in me?" Gaius laughs in self-depreciation. "Ain't that something."

"Welcome to world of honorable and law-abiding citizens." I pace back and forth up a simple line to a slow rhythm, my heel catching on the grout between the stones to send rocks sprawling. "So are you going to answer my question?"

"Which one? I forgot," he answers cheekily.

"Gaius," I exasperate. I pull off my left glove and bundle it up tightly in a ball, throwing it at him. He looks up just in time to get pelted in the middle of his face. "Maribelle already decided Chalard's fate. She wanted to put him on trial."

He rubs the tip of his nose with the back of his hand, reaching down to pick up my impromptu projectile. "Yep. Was standing in the same room when she said it."

I try to maintain an even tone. "You don't think that's her right to decide how the priest's fate should have been handled?"

"The Duchess deserves a lot of good things in life." Gaius looks over the glove before tossing it back to me. He turns away, looking out over the city below. He seems to grow smaller somehow, in these quiet moments that follow. He speaks, an unnerving remorse coming from the usually cocky rogue. "It wasn't supposed to be like this."

There's hidden layers barely concealing the past they have, one I think Maribelle doesn't even know of. At least, not yet. Out of all the Shepherds, these two have a poignant past. Aside from maybe Cherche and Lon'qu, their support could have a huge impact on each person's respective character growth. I'm glad for the meta knowledge or I might be approaching this whole thing differently.

All the same...

"I don't like orphans, Robin. Kids shouldn't be alone. When kids are alone, they have to fend for themselves. The weak die. The ones that live-" His fists clenches up beside him. "Let's just say they were better off dead. The only thing they gained is an addiction to seeing the next sunrise, more dangerous than any drug or temptation. The will to live makes the worst monsters from a young age."

"Maribelle's a grown woman by society's standards. She's no helpless child," I point out.

Gaius looks past me, through the very stone walls of the keep itself. I feel like he's talking about Maribelle, but not the present one. Gaius is remembering the past, the one where he almost caused her father's death by blaming the man in a scheme involving him and several others in a heist. He turned tail on his cohorts at last minute, ratting them out to save the former Duke from execution.

"Maribelle should have had a happy family for the rest of her life. Parents are what influence the direction you take in life. She should have her father walk her down the aisle or her mama show her how to do them fancy flower crowns noble girls like to make. I made sure that-"

Gaius abruptly stops, clearly his throat as he breaks off the end of his sentence in a mumble. "The good Duchess has a dream. A damn fine one. She deserves to see that happen."

"Then why take away her first opportunity to do so?" I ask him. What's his angle? Redemption? Sympathy?

He moves past me, tucking his hands at his hips. His view changes to the crags in the west, the only defense we have separating us from Plegia's large forces. Gaius ignores me, changing the direction of the topic entirely. He sounds tired.

"You ever spend some time in the capital of Plegia?"

"I wouldn't remember if I did," I answer honestly.

"Right." His eyes flicker to the side, his head tipping apologetically before looking away once more. "Then let me educate you a bit."

Gaius drags his fingers down into the dip of the crenel, wiping them across the stonework and staining them black with dirt. "Most of the poor there wallow in the ancient ruins the newer levels are built on. A graveyard of mistakes and dragon waste. The humans who manage to claw their way out of them dark crevices ain't right, especially if it's obvious the Grimleal got to 'em. The lower ranks are full of these folk, stained already by an unfair life. They don't follow the standards of morality me and you understand."

I've seen men possessed by the darkness of war. There's a certain fog that overtakes the clarity in their eyes when they speak, past encounters playing back in their minds like a perfect recording. There's a strain in their speech, the struggle to pull words from the air. In that same way, one that causes me no lack of alarm, Gaius exhibits a similar experience. This isn't hearsay, he's speaking from recollection.

Gaius turns his palm toward him, rubbing the dirt between his digits so the exposed skin at the tips of his fingerless gloves becomes the same color. "I didn't go in there to kill him, Robin. Make him talk? Sure. The information would do some good. Maybe get a boss or two for Maribelle's list of justice. She could play magistrate all day and night with the group of bastards who offed her folks. Make some sort of legacy and whatnot. I dunno."

"I wanted-" He forms a fist again, tighter than before. The leather squeaks and strains under the immense pressure he exudes, his whole arm beginning to shake under the stress. "The things that came out of his mouth when he started jabbering were..."

"Gaius? What is it? What did he say?"

"Crazy shit, that's what!" he exasperates, pounding his fist into the wall. Gaius turns toward me, pointing toward the prison. "Starts laughing! He says Grima came to him in the night. Visited his dreams. Said Chalard could wait for Grima's blessing to bestow on him again. A promise his power would return, but he must rest and restore his might. When he did, he'd do..."

Pure disgust. Absolute contempt. That's what I would label his expression. The same he carried the night of the assassination attempt when he killed those three Plegian soldiers for what they did to that innocent maid. Gaius' rage isn't loud or explosive. It's a deadly quiet thinly concealed between piercing eyes and sharp movements. "You don't need me to go into specifics, do you? I'd rather not-" He breathes deeply, trying to regain a sense of calm. "Please don't ask me to."

Grima coming to Chalard in his dreams? While it's more likely just his own hallucinations, I'm not taking anything for granted! Unease grips my heart, an action I mirror when I grip my shirt over it, feeling the intense beating beneath. Crap on a stick. This is not the news I wanted to hear!

"Did you feel like he was a threat?" I press him. "You think he could still do magic?"

"Hells if I know. You heard Junior was still able to melt a guy's brain with some spoken words even after they took away his tome. What's to say this guy was any different?" Gaius rubs the space of his forehead over each eye, his voice deepening with a mixture of confusion and anger. "Somethin' wasn't right about that man, if you can even call him that. It was like a shell, and not the crunchy nut-filled kind. He was empty, nothin' in him but the ambition to kill."

An empty shell? Just a device to carry out Grima's ambition. How familiar is that?

"That look in his eyes..." Gaius grimaces. "I've seen it before."

"Plegia?" I offer up in guess.

"Somethin' about him reminded me of the other Grimleal I worked with. The ones personally under that priest we fought in Ylisstol. Letum or sumthin. Y'now, the one I told you about that melted the poor bloke in front of me. That guy."

I may have suffered a mini heart attack. I gawk at my companion, attention totally consumed at the specific trigger word.

"Just like Chalard, his attendants were empty shells of humans, but they fought like the wraiths from your worst nightmares. Just mumbling orders over and over, searching for some bizarre religious absolution."

If Grima's generals are that tightly wound in the Grimleal, who knows how much the cult is aware of? Why do I have this sudden feeling of dread hanging over me? Better mention this to Lucina as soon as I can...I want to know what she thinks of that.

"I ain't gonna waste time and repeat what he said, but I hope you got the gist of it." Gaius blocks his face behind his hand, twisting away to hide his emotions from me. "You're right. I don't go around killing people for giggles, nor in some vigilante fashion. I work in a way to stay alive without compromising what little shreds of decency I still got."

"You've got to understand though. Those Grimleal are dangerous. Insane. Powerful. I wasn't going to let him get a chance to do anymore harm to her. "

"You have a history with Maribelle," I can't help pointing out.

"I've done shit in the past I ain't happy about." He looks over his shoulder at me, the light behind him casting extra shadows over his face. "I try to make it up when I can."

There's more to this story, more than the game's showed, and more than I think I'll ever know. I can read through the lines. There's a toxic cocktail here. Haunts of his own past, regrets, and other hidden things only Gaius is privy too.

"And that's all you're going to tell me," I sigh. Knowing his personality, I doubt I'll find out more beyond that.

"No offense, but I don't tell anyone about my past, let alone the escapades I'm involved in." He acknowledges me coming up beside him with a weak grin meant to be mischievous. "Not even for a pretty face. Sorry."

"I'm just happy you do have a conscience."

"Lady Luck may favor the sinners, but there's no mention of having to be a total monster to earn it." Gaius pulls something from under his cloak. It's a lopsided little pouch. He seems put off by the weight of it, turning it upside down. He shakes the open end over his palm beneath, but only a few crumbs bounce out and settle in the creases of his skin. He curses under his breath and chucks it over his shoulder, rubbing off the fragments on the back of his pants. "So there's the sob story."

Yeah, all of it. Every last ounce. The honest, naked truth in all its burning glory. Gaius explained essentially a reasoning I expected. Something purely noble behind a dirty act. A shared history, a heavy conscience, and an established motivation of disgust for the act. All in all, my mind is largely made up, very little from what I was going to do before.

I go to retrieve Gaius' litter, leaving him. As I approach the bag, I kneel down and my eyes catch a flash of color from the side. I tilt my head in the direction toward the tower's entrance but see only a few birds perched about. We're alone otherwise. Shaking my head, I pick up the trash and crumple it up in my grasp. Then, I take a long breathe and smile.

"I'm not going to do anything," I speak confidently. I feel relieved. The burden is gone.

He whips his head around. "Pardon?"

I fiddle with the pouch in my hand, feeling the rough canvas scratch the soft skin on the underside of my hand. "Chalard was a sick fuck and probably deserved it. I also get that there's a reason society has set in place rules to govern criminals or else everyone would be taking the law into account their own way."

"Most of the world would agree with you there," he remarks dryly.

"But how I see it, this is an isolated incident. You're not a bad man," I pause, taunting him a little as his attentive eyes narrow at me with impatience, "minus the stealing issues."

I tuck the pouch away in my coat pocket and twirl around on my heel. I raise both shoulders and circle away. "I don't know what happened in your past or your relationship with Maribelle, but it's clear to me that whatever you did was meant to protect her."

A few familiar faces cross my mind, causing my heart to speed up and clench in an unfamiliar way. The same sort of intense fondness I had for my mother that occurred when I saw her. It's stronger though. More intimate. "Honestly, if someone had done something like that to...to some people I know, I might have done the same."

"So, where's that leave us then?" he asks me, poised and tense like a deer about to flee. Yet, there's a single spark of hope eagerly waiting for the ability to release this held in apprehension.

I turn and smile as cheekily as I can manage. "The same place we always were. You go about doing whatever the Shepherds require of you and I have a war to plan."

Gaius looks at me, then all around him, then back to me. He runs his hand through his hair, starting and stopping in his words until he finally manages to catch some. "You'd really leave it, just like that? No favors or anything?"

I cross my arms, my hip naturally falling to the side as my foot starts to tap with agitation. "Just don't do it again. Even I have a limit as to what I consider a well-meaning act and someone going full out on a murder spree."

"You're an odd one." Gaius rests back on his heels, hands tucks at his sides. His head falls so his hair hangs, hiding his face. "Most folk would leap on a freebie, 'cept for the snitches because they get paid through their own sense of righteousness."

"I'm just doing what I can to keep you all alive. It's my job and that's all that matters to me."

He's quiet. I remain so as well, letting it sink in for him. I appreciate the lack of expression, soaking in the mountain air. In all fairness, Chalard was not getting out of this alive. If he survived imprisonment through the war, he would have been sentenced and executed. Even if Maribelle averted his fate somehow, her peers in the House of Lords would have vetoed the decision and demanded an execution anyway. The murder of a peasant is one thing. The death of a fellow Duke and his family is a personal affront to nobility's honor.

Maybe this isn't the most honorable of decisions or the most just, but it is my decision. I'll stand by it. Again, I have to appreciate this foreknowledge a bit more than usual as it's allowing me to preserve Gaius' place here and to understand his reasoning based off what was revealed in game. As I said, there's clearly many more layers to peel off this onion, but I don't believe the role of Robin has any place in that tale. DLC for another time maybe.

Gaius mumbles, scratching at the back of his neck. He looks off put by something, shuffling and twitching about. When I ask him to speak up, he chews out his words with resistance. "Look, I don't like having debts hanging over my head. There's no-"

I can feel a mental twitch somewhere deep in the emotional core of my mind. He can't let this go, can he? I cut him off. "Gaius. No."

"Not one thing you'd-?"

"N. O. No." He starts to open his mouth again when I run forward and press both hands over it. "Just do your tasks promptly. There! I'm asking you to finish your duties in a timely manner. That's what I want from you."

He ducks his head away, stepping back. "Alright, alright. I hear you. No need to shout. Can't believe it though, honestly. Never pictured this outcome today. You're an interesting one Bubbles, I'll give you that."

"For the record, thank you for looking out for Maribelle. She's going to be enduring some hard times, even more so now. It makes me feel better knowing you've got an eye on her." I step around Gaius just about to suggest a way to wrap up this conversation now that I feel good about where we're at. Except, when I get a clear view of the tower entrance, I can't help but see someone ducking behind the stacked barrels stashed to the side of it. Was that...? No. It couldn't be.

"Life ain't all gumdrops and sugar beets," Gaius continues, unaware of the activity with his back still towards the tower. He starts looking for comfort food or something, patting around his clothes. "Sometimes someone has to do the dirty work to make sure the good ones don't get dragged under as well."

I make a noise of agreement, still watching the far scene for activity. Perhaps sensing she was caught, Maribelle's head peeks out from behind the obstacles hiding her. She pushes her hair out of her eyes, holding a finger up to her lips to ask for my silence. I feel my stomach drop. How long has she been here?

"Y'now, you and I aren't so different in our roles Bubbles." Gaius offers me a stick of something, peppermint maybe. I take it blindly, tearing my gaze away from Maribelle's hiding spot. I cram the treat in my mouth, humming over the sharp sting of mint.

He tucks the remaining snacks away into one of his many hiding spots. Half of the stick hangs out of his mouth, the red ribbon on it already melting away. "We both work behind the scenes to achieve our goals. No one is supposed to see us, but the effects of our actions are felt just the same. I've worked my share of gigs. People in your role share a bunch of titles."

"Strategist. Adviser. Confidant," I ramble off.

He nods. "They've all got some role close to the one in power, calling all the shots on their boss' behalf."

"What's your point?"

"Typically, they're doin' their job because they believe in their ruler and want to see 'em live through the night to achieve whatever merry dream it is they go chasing." He pulls the peppermint out, twirling it around his fingers before pointing the faded edge at me. "That entails doing a lot things. Sometimes bad things. Things they know their lord would disapprove of. Things they should never even hear about."

He pops it back in his mouth. "Catch my drift?"

"Ah." He's alluding to the fact that I might be in a similar position as him someday. It's true, I'll be the first to know much of what's happening when it comes to our upcoming strategy. It's the scouts who will be reporting to both their superior and myself. In addition to my map during battles, most information is going to reach me before it ever hits Chrom or Emmeryn.

"I'm not telling you how to do your job. Just advising you to figure where those boundaries lie before you're put to the test. We utility roles are vital in our covert way. We do the hard stuff and someone else usually gets the glory for it."

"I don't mind. I couldn't care less about fame and fortune," I admit, trying hard not to look back at Maribelle. How long has she been eavesdropping? Oh no...

"But you care about our good little royals and all their noble goals?" Gaius asks sincerely, drawing back in my attention.

"Probably in the same way you seem to care about Maribelle's future," I respond smartly, immediately regretting the words given the audience hanging around in the back. I hope she only heard the good stuff.

"That's-" Gaius stumbles again, caught off guard with this vulnerable topic. "Look, Bubbles, hear me out. You're a rare type of gal. You see things in gray when others see black n' white. You'll be able to take action in ways others wouldn't be able to."

What he's telling me is the purest form of advice he can give, all with good intentions. This is Gaius' way of thanking me, I think. "If you reach that point, you'll have to make choices that may not sit well with others. But if the moment calls for it, you've got to do what you have to in order to survive."

I crunch down on the candy, the cool spike of mint flooding my mouth. I chew thoughtfully, unsure what to say.

"Just don't forget about yourself either. Let yourself get too charitable and you'll end up a patsy for someone else's fortunes. It's nice to trust in someone, but make sure that trust is worth the risks," Gaius finishes.

"I'm sure of it," I answer strongly. This I'm confident in, at the very least. "Are you? Do you trust us? The Shepherds?"

I want him to answer. Maribelle should hear his thoughts. Sadly, the plan backfires. Gaius doesn't seem able to answer the question. He seems pensive, laughing in a nervous fashion. The thief is gripping subconsciously at his upper arm, as if it were paining him. It's the same arm he ties a bandana around when he's isn't wearing long sleeves. The very one that hides a certain tattoo marking him a criminal.

Perhaps his reaction is enough for her because the tip-tap of Maribelle's heels stalk up loudly behind us. She wears a haughty expression, appraising us both with irritation. No sign of her earlier snooping betrayed her features.

"Of course I would find you two in the most inane of places loafing about!" she chides harshly. She waltzes right up, one hand glued to her waist and the other poking the air at us both. "I go looking for you in order to find Robin and then discover you are both missing. Now I must waste valuable time when I should be in the plaza like a good host!"

I try to say something but it fizzles out as she yanks me forward with a forceful pull. I stumble off balance, flailing forward and past her with the momentum she used on me. Gaius, meanwhile, shakes off his spooked look and plasters on his wise-guy smugness.

"Fancy seein' you up here, Twinkles," Gaius says, perfectly hiding his earlier surprise. He gestures to the bustling crowd in the courtyard below. "Sumthin' up or you just dragging Robin off for another tea time. I know how important your soirees are."

Maribelle regards him coolly, really taking him in as if memorizing every line and feature on his face. Her split second of concentration is over, also masked by indignation. "I just received word that Khan Flavia is do to reach Ironhold any moment. When trying to assemble the core of our welcoming party, I find a key lieutenant of the Shepherds is missing! Of course I need Robin in attendance if I am to show proper respects for her arrival!"

I flip my hood back which had fallen over my face. "Flavia's almost here?" I cry out in shock. "When? How?"

"A pegasus knight in the scouting group that Flavia intercepted has alerted us. Their group was spotted on the horizon." She pulls me again. "Stop dawdling and come with me at once! This is an emergency."

"Looks like you've been summoned, oh almighty tactician," Gaius smirks.

All I can do is mouth out, 'Save me.'

"Come, come. I'm sure you two can spend more time lazing about afterward."

Swift and deadly, just like a shark. I had no chance against Maribelle. The surprise of her jumping from her hiding spot earlier didn't help.

"Sorry, I wasn't even aware. I thought Flavia was due tomorrow at best," I sputter in apology, dragged along behind Maribelle as she pulls me into the keep's interior.

"No one was, to be honest," she laments, cringing in regret. "Gods, the dining room is a mess. We will not even have matching silverware to place upon the only clean tablecloth we could find."

"I doubt Flavia is going to care if the cutlery matches," I mention, remembering the way the Khan annihilated her chicken leg back at the celebration in Regna Ferox. She doesn't strike me as one who remembers her manners often.

"That is no excuse for a lack of proper decorum!" Maribelle exasperates, her pout reddening her cheeks. "Naga's grace! This is mortifying."

Maribelle sizzles quietly, stomping loudly down the hall. I trail behind her feeling too scared to say anything further. Only when she turns a more natural color do I speak to Maribelle again, this time speeding up to walk beside her.

"So can I ask how long you were spying on us?" I speak in a low voice, casting a glance to a lone guard we pass.

"Me? Spying?" Maribelle shrinks back, pressing a hand to her chest in shock. "That is absurd! How ludicrous to think I would stoop so low as to...to snoop upon your conversation! Ghastly Robin, truly."

I stare blankly at her. She can't hold my gaze, huffing loudly in defeat. "Oh, alright. I suppose I was. I merely wished to ask you to join me down in the courtyard. I was not there long."

She pauses, chewing on her lip.

"Maribelle?" I end up walking past her as she wavers, her pace slacking. She looks down at the ground, pondering something. She almost looks as though she wishes to ask me something, I can see the question ready to spill off her tongue. After second thoughts, she shakes her head and moves on.

" 'tis nothing. I would fret about it as there is nothing to be worried about."

I press her harder. "Maribelle, if you heard anything then I'll-"

"Whatever I did hear, if anything at all, is hearsay not meant for my ears," she quotes, offering me a mysterious smile. "Besides, I already had all the information I needed beforehand."

She pats my cheek in a friendly fashion before pushing me on. "I appreciate your concern for Gaius though."

"So you did hear-" Cut off again.

What does that mean? My questions are left unanswered however, all words shoved aside in order to reach the courtyard in time. Maribelle seems oddly content with everything, not even the least bit curious. Perhaps...satisfied? Even when she was hiding out, Maribelle didn't strike me as looking perturbed. Has she already assumed his involvement, or did she in fact find the evidence her father kept alluding to in Gaius' involvement in past affairs?

Well, as long as I have nothing to fear, it's all good in my book. It's not my place to pry or to interfere. Their business is their own. Without knowing their support status, I can't comment on anything else with certainty.

We emerge into daylight shortly after, this timeentering the crowded courtyard. The atmosphere is explosive, crackling with anticipation of Regna Ferox's leader touching down. Though the gates are closed to the keep, I can see throngs of soldiers waiting outside. Back on the inside, all of the relevant Feroxi lieutenants and captains are gathered behind Raimi. Ylisse's own battalion leaders are also assembled, albeit in a less orderly fashion thanks to Eldaran's orders being bumbled about. The gatehouse itself is large, a grand circle that doubles as a landing platform for the presiding Duke or Duchess on their return. I can see the most important figures lined up there.

Maribelle moves expertly through the crowd with most parting out of either confusion or reverence. We speed past her silly orchestra, a ragtag ensemble of servants and guards who had been handed random instruments of working order. The conductor attempts to wave for her attention, but Maribelle speeds past him like a rolling tomato. She hollers something about starting up, and he promptly raises his arms, conducting the confused ensemble before him. A horrendous ditty begins to play, the off rhythm melody supposed to invoke the cheesy aura of victory and celebration. Half the instruments sound broken anyway, and whoever is playing the flute keeps whistling more than harmonizing. Poor Maribelle.

The shrill cry of a wyvern cuts overhead, followed by a dark shadow blocking out the sun overhead. It leaves just as fast, soaring away and up into a spiral. The creature is preparing to land, causing cheers to start rising from the crowd outside.

"Oh, blast it all! Over there, quickly now!" Maribelle orders me, pulling me up the stairwell two steps at a time as we fly towards the gathering of officials.

"Take my arm off why don't you!" I wince in pain feeling the ligaments stretching with every tug.

Maribelle shoves me into the crowd, Frederick moving perfectly to the side and catching me by the hood to prevent me from straying further out of line. Maribelle continues her run until she skids to a halt beside Emmeryn, unfurling her parasol in front of them both to block the dust that explodes out from the wyvern's landing.

The creature's low roar lessens to a mild hiss as it rests on its haunches, wings tucking into its sides. It's head collapses gratefully to the floor, chest heaving up and down in great intervals. Flavia stands tall on the beast's back, reins held tightly in one hand. She looks fearsome with the rays of sun glowing behind her through broken holes in the cloud cover. She looks like a Viking shield maiden.

She turns and looks down at the crowd below, the group pressing to the stone walls of the private keep. Flavia's face splits into a proud, cocky grin. She thrusts an arm in the air, her personal sword raised even higher to glint in the light. The sight is oddly inspiring, one that causes her Feroxi warriors to explode with activity. After properly basking in their adoration, the eastern Khan hops off her mount with a grand leap, landing on one knee. She twirls her sword expertly, the blade sliding noiselessly into its scabbard. "Exalted Emmeryn, scion of Naga," Flavia proclaims in greeting.

Emmeryn steps forward to meet the other leader. She is dressed more formally with diplomatic robes bearing her house colors and a pearl-laden cape with Naga's likeness on the back. "Khan Flavia, your Feroxi warriors welcome you back with open arms," the Exalt proclaims, imitating her actions to words. "As do your Ylissean allies."

This time the Ylisseans join the fervor, the sight of two allies coming together inspiring the first signs of victory and hope for our forces. It's more than that. While the Plegians have caused strife for centuries, Emmeryn's grandmother, the last Exalt before her father, initiated the first peace talks with Regna Ferox. Her assassination brought a stalemate to such proceedings, but the fruits of her labor are being realized nearly four decades later.

"About damn time," Flavia responds, delivering a proper Feroxi salute of her own. "So we finally meet face to face, Exalt."

Emmeryn draws her hands together, bowing her head in acceptance of the cultural gesture. "Indeed. The honor is all mine, though I believe your people are the ones who are the most overjoyed to see you."

"This?" Flavia waves Emmeryn off and turns to the crowd below, bellowing loudly. "What a paltry display of honor for this ruling Khan, if that's the case. I didn't know my people had digressed to whimpering children. I expected a better welcome than this!"

She raises both her arms to the sky. "You call this a greeting befitting your ruling Khan?"

The wild nature of the Feroxi explodes and it's truly a sight to see. They already stand out, their uniforms colorful and a disarray of many adopted armors, clashing with the singular style that makes every Ylissean identical to their neighbor. They hoot and holler. Some raise shields and beat them with weapons or fists. Some are whistling shrilly while others chant her name. There's no denying the Ylissean people worship their Exalt. The same can be said of the Feroxi, who respect and adore their own Khan in equal fervor.

Flavia grins and laughs, clasping her hands together over her head and shaking them in victory. "Now that's more like it!"

A little behind Emmeryn and to her left is Lissa who stands a respectable distance from Lon'qu. She watches the scene with her mouth partly open in excitement at the spectacle before us. Lissa is on her tiptoes to look into the crowd below. She seems to ask him something, pointing to Flavia and then himself. He looks surprised at whatever has piqued her curiosity, then responds accordingly. Perhaps Lissa is taking an interest in his country more than he was expecting. She always did seem to like the energetic atmosphere of the Feroxi.

Satisfied, the Khan turns back to Emmeryn. "So tell me, Exalt. Have my people lived up to your expectations?"

Emmeryn draws closer to Flavia, until the two stand side to side. Flavia is taller than Emmeryn by more than a bit, but the two look to be standing on equal ground. Both women bear their own iconic strengths, a combination that makes for a deadly alliance to those they have yet to face. Emmeryn looks proudly over the crowd, then over the keep. "More than we could have hoped for."

"Khan Flavia," Raimi's husky voice rings out, daring to step up to the two leaders. She stands stiff, ready for her next order from the one she is most loyal to. "Your army welcomes you back and eagerly awaits your next commands for battle."

"Raimi!" Flavia greets happily upon seeing an old face. "I expect no less from you. Of course they're ready, as am I. I've been spoiling for a good fight since the moment I left our lands. You did too good of a job cleaning up the way to Ylisse. There wasn't a Plegian or monstrosity left for me to sink my blade into."

Raimi's face betrays a hint of amusement, the corner of her mouth raising slightly. "I apologize, my Khan. I will be less thorough next time."

"Ha! This is why I keep you around," Flavia praises her commander. "Not many have the balls to talk like that to a Khan, even when she asks."

Caught off guard by her brash language, Emmeryn flushes a tad pink. "Khan Flavia, may I offer some respite after the long journey?"

The idea of further pause leaves Flavia looking displeased. "I'd rather draw out a map and start making plans than rest. All I've been doing for the past few weeks is rest on my laurels while Raimi and her half of the army have all the fun. And with that old oaf playing pirate on the seas again, I've had little to entertain myself with."

"You have word of the west Khan? We have not heard from Basilio in many days," Emmeryn gasps.

"In due time, Exalt. I'd rather we talk politics elsewhere." Flavia's eyes gleam mischievously. "Though I suppose I could use a good drink before getting down to business."

"That I can kindly oblige, Khan Flavia. I will happily lead you to proper accommodations."

"Who am I to say no?" Flavia winks at her commander, waving over the crowd below. "Raimi, can I trust you to keep the men in order for me one more night?"

Before she can answer, a loud crashing interrupts us. The heavy clashing of metal masks everything but the lowest blurting notes of whomever is still playing down in the courtyard. A shield rolls past us, moving in a single line until it falls completely flat in front of the two leaders. All heads move in the direction it came from.

A gaggle of healers, blinding in their pristine white robes, are gathered comically around a collapsed weapon display. They seem desperate to fish out whomever had collided with it.

"Why are there a bunch of healers down here?" I ask myself out loud. Frederick's horrifying low growl of disapproval nearly causes me to leap from my skin.

"To catch an errant fool, that is why."

One of the healers kneeling down finally rises, supporting a familiar face from the rubble. She hoists Chrom up under one arm back onto his feet. He, meanwhile, gingerly rubs his head where it knocked into the corner of a crate. He looks through one eye, the other closed tightly in pain as he breaks away from her grasp. His dress ware is supposed to be formal, but he seems to be missing key parts of the accents that go with it. Overall, his presentation looks rushed, or just sloppily thrown on. The back of his shirt isn't even tucked into the hem of his pants for goodness sake!

Chrom avoids the other grasping hands of the healers and stumbles up to a proper place in the crowd. He looks pleased with himself for escaping the others, only to realize everyone is looking at him. Noticing Flavia has already landed and the introductions are well over, his bravado begins to fade. "I suppose this means I'm late?"

Flavia bellows loudly, clapping twice. "Well if it isn't the Shepherd prince! Last I heard of your brother, he was in the thick of the last battle."

Emmeryn's mild expression is one that can make flowers wither, her thinly pressed lips barely maintaining any upward curve. "He was. And if I recall, he was to be in bed now, resting."

Chrom swats away the healers now gathering at his side, hovering like mosquitoes. "You can't expect me to stay cooped up and neglect a proper greeting toward our ally, can you?" he asks, unaware of Emmeryn's horrifying passive aggression until he turns around to properly face both women. He falters, blinking faster in surprise, then mild fear of his sister.

"Hm. Very true," Emmeryn murmurs thoughtfully. An evil-like thoughtfulness to be precise.

If that wasn't bad enough, the looming shadow behind Emmeryn closes in until he towers over her. Frederick is the complete opposite of Emmeryn: stony, cold, and the promise of doom to come. He hovers imposingly, peering down his nose at Chrom and causing the younger man to swallow.

"Milord," he rumbles threateningly. Together, Emmeryn and Frederick appear as two angry parents more than Chrom's sister and retainer. Is this what he grew up with? I shudder at the thought.

Flavia chuckles, appraising Chrom from head to toe. "Consider this Khan flattered to be considered so important in the young man's eyes that he would brave injuries to see me in."

"Perhaps we may take this inside? I'm sure you would prefer more comfortable surroundings to speak in, Khan Flavia," Emmeryn speaks, returning to normal when addressing her counterpart. She makes a point by exhibiting the dark clouds on the horizon growing closer to us.

"If the Exalt wishes," the Feroxi leader sighs. She follows up by giving Chrom a hard slap on the shoulder and follows it up by a quick wink.

Chrom nods mutely as Flavia walks away, sagging forward in the grab he makes for his arm she had previously accosted. Immediately a healer is hovering, butting in with questions. The rest of the group begins to move away, Emmeryn's explanations to Flavia going with them. I lose focus of her words when Chrom does a double-take in my direction. We lock eyes and an earnest smile blossoms over his features.

A bolt of anxiousness hits my heart and makes it swell with instant glee. I've barely seen him the last few days with all the planning and meetings, my work with the Shepherds and security keeping me away from visits. I think I've gone the entirety of the last day and a half without sharing a word in person, our communication limited to a few shallow pleasantries shared between us through Frederick or Lissa.

I'm more excited to see him than I'm comfortable with.

He takes a step towards me, only for my hopes to be dashed upon the floor. For alas, the lord of killjoys, baron of spoilsports, king of all wet blankets steps in the way! Frederick blocks the path between us, allowing his stern words of concern to allow the buzzing healers to swoop in and carry Chrom away.

Frederick, sometimes you are the biggest ass on the planet without even trying.

Chrom is whisked away in a tornado of white robes, protesting drowned out by Frederick's droning reprimands. Lissa, who had watched the entire affair and was barely holding together, finally lets lose as she trails after them.

"Oooo whee. Frederick is going to knock him silly," she giggles wildly behind her hands.

Lucina and Owain, who were surprisingly absent from the ceremony, finally reveal their hiding place along with Nah. The three of their heads poke out from the entrance to the personal residence of the keep, one over the other like stacked peas in a pod. They quietly watch Emmeryn and Flavia approach, snapping to attention with a proper salute when they pass. Emmeryn shares some words with Flavia and Lucina relaxes a little. Owain, meanwhile, boldly pronounces some nonsense that causes Flavia even more mirth, much to Nah's chagrin as she looks down mortified. Flavia acknowledges the trio and then both leaders continue inside.

When the group of healers appear next, toting their reluctant quarry along, Lucina makes a clear pass to help at Chrom's request. That is...until Frederick snaps at her, stalking up the rear like a predator on the hunt. The trio all back away quickly, out of sight.

Well, if everyone else is going to run, I guess I'll have to be the one to save him. After all, I'm one of the few people in world mostly immune to Frederick's legendary temper. Though, I think even I might come away scathed after this round. The things we do to save our nobles in distress!

A/N: Oh, hell. It's chapter 50. Would you look at that! Let me light a few fireworks for this anniversary...monument...milestone thing. Whee.

Still hanging in there guys, one day at a time. This took longer than I would have liked but life doesn't stop sucking overnight :) Like the past months though, it will hopefully be a little better than the last. Peace, my peeps. Enjoy this spooky month for all those celebrating Halloween goodness, or just enjoy enjoy life if you're not.

Reviews:

Raiden312 - Very true. While I have my own ideas about Anna, I'm not going to get explicitly in-depth about their inner workings to preserve the mystery around her(or them). Suffice to say, not all Anna's are equal. Apotheosis Anna is among their more militant. Most are not aware of the extent Anna's family can go. As such, that ignorance can lead you to attempting to mess with one and not realize the can of worms you're opening.

Gaius is a perplexing guy. As Robin observed however, he has a sense of morality. As the game shows, guilt (and paranoia) are big factors of his personality. He holds past mistakes in high regard. In this instance, he made a mistake that influenced Maribelle's life and created circumstances he alludes to that he doesn't favor. Is it from personal experience? Who knows? But, he thought he corrected that mistake and could move on. Seeing misfortune befall her again stirred up guilt. He was honestly trying to get her a list of names to pursue in the name of justice, or thinly veiled revenge, to prosecute. His fear for her future and the weight if that conscience made him react.

Haven't seen Re:Creators yet. I take it they break universe laws quite a bit?

Xoroth - Thanks for pointing out the error. Found and fixed.

Who knows, maybe light magic has hope as well. Robin and the others seem to be defying all sorts of odds lately.

Guest - Robin's direct control over the world around them was always fascinating. I wanted to really push that same feeling here. Though, this Robin is more of a quiet influence than a bold instigator. Robin is the catalyst sending great things into motion, though her nature makes her direct approach subtle so far. Others are benefiting from the experiences, not her. What would happen if she pushed more? Took more credit? The temptation of power and forbidden knowledge can make men into monsters. Whose to say it could or could not happen?

EmilykaFairy – Yes, this is exactly what I needed. Thank you! It pointed out so many obvious little mishaps I should have known better. Honestly, some of those mistakes are so shameful to have forgotten.

I think my largest issue is how informal speech can be and how reliant on contemporary slang the American English language can be. Trying to convert my thoughts to a proper translation in another language ends up sounding so stiff and formal because I don't know how to equate the expression otherwise. Hence why some of the sentences seemed so oddly formatted or utilized the wrong verb. This is why I read in French much better than I do when I write. My brain can piece together and understand the words, but attempting to form them from thin air is much more difficult.

I truly appreciate the help. You were not rude at all but quite the opposite. Very helpful. I appreciate the lessons more than you know. Feel free to keep reviewing in French if you like, or keep practicing in English. If I ever get crafty again with a French response, I'll send a proper PM. I'm learning right now with my phone and a language app on my lunch breaks. I'm not sure how correct it is, but I'll pick up a book from my library soon and see how good it's turning out!

Bella Joy - Miriel intrigued me always as she was the closest we had to seeing Ylisse's intellectual sphere. Learning that this was a family legacy established a lovely "what-if" potential for filling what we don't know about her past. And while Ricken's past is more straightforward, her efforts provide plenty of potential for his present ambitions. They feed off of each other in a complimentary fashion. This discovery means much to both of their futures!

Robin's always been a tad...messy. She thrives in chaos, which is unfortunate for those like Miriel. Let's pray she never noticed...

blep - I throw in world building for more fun mostly. I love crafting those aspects in a world. It definitely helps flesh out this series though, which only ever offered small insight into the settings surrounding the various heroes in games. A magic chapter was a great way to introduce limitations and strengths in the magic system, as well as show how overall events are on the change again. With the emergence of new enemies and ancient powers, it's inevitable someone would want to explore water magic. What better than Ylisse's finest mage duo?

ArcherShirou - Robin's future is hardly set in stone. While she dreams of the simple life now, her attitude has plenty of potential, and reason, to change. Why not run a royal bakery from the castle kitchens? It's still early, but given time, I'm sure you can think of a few people who would adamantly convince her to change her mind and reconsider that future.

It's true, Anna is attached to Donnel and vice versa, though the former denies it right now. I guess we'll see where it goes.

S093 - Can you imagine Robin attempting to explain that one? You could maybe pass off a few kids but a second Taguel would be difficult to explain. I imagine Cynthia and Severa might have a hard time hiding their identities since they resemble their mothers so much.

Maronmario - I didn't know there was a movement (for or against) a new magic type, let alone ice/water specifically. Azura from Fates seemed the closest with her songs invoking a watery aura when performing. The story is about the ramifications of outside influences on the story, as well as connecting the past to future. I figured it be an interesting angle to pursue since Ricken and Miriel's stories mention impacting the world immensely in their own ways later on.

Guest - Glad you liked it. I've had fun building it up over chapters to hopefully a nice resolution to the arc. It's helped strengthen Miriel and Ricken as well as inform Robin and the readers more.

Stratoavis - Thank you! This is consuming most of my efforts now but I'm hoping this will help me get good enough to publish original material someday. Not to say I won't try other fanfics though. I've got plenty of side project ideas laying around. Just never enough time, sadly.

It's funny, but I never thought myself very interested in mystery themes. Suspense, slow build up, a lingering set of events coming together bit by bit...It's actually rather fun. I actually get tense writing bits, eagerly wondering what everyone will feel as they read sentence by sentence with the dread of not knowing what comes after each period. It's pretty cool, ha ha.

Water magic has been building up since Ylisstol so I would keep an eye out for the hard work to be rewarded soon. As you said, maybe not a full on explosion, but the start of more fun to come.

Guest – Thank you much! Hopefully the conversation didn't disappoint. I rewrote it many times trying to have some respect to each character and for both parties to get something meaningful from it. Cross my fingers it worked. Enjoy the read!

friedkimchiliver – Poor boy got a cameo at the end here. But seriously? Soon!

Only probably – Oh boy, I know the feeling. I just binge watched a series on Netflix and now I'm left hungry for more, knowing the next season is so far. I'll try to update as quick as I can so no one goes too crazy!

Much of the lore here is affiliated with the main line following Marth and his games, though there are nods to others. Other supplementary bits (such as Grima) belongs to the Fire Emblem data book known as the Knights of Iris, or The Art of Fire Emblem Awakening in the English translation. Mixed with a healthy bit of originality, I've pieced together what I could. If you have further interest in the series history for this game, give the wiki or the data book a peek. Glad you find it interesting though. I don't want to bore anyone with the history, but rather help add more weight to the characters' history and the world that helped influence that.

drmonicblood – Thanks! Glad you've enjoyed the ride so far. I love to play with foreshadowing and events that interconnect, influencing others further down the line. It's an interesting tapestry to weave, drawing aspects of characters and plot together.

Anna is a mystery. I suppose we'll find out sooner or later what's really going on. Something does seem fishy, doesn't it?

DiamondGargoyle – No worries! Life goes on. I don't expect anyone to be obligated to review every chapter, especially one this long!

There's a lot lacking in world building for the Fire Emblem series, but that's just because it's not the focus of it. It does leave plenty to the imagination for us writers and readers though, so we can happily fill in those gaps. I'll have more on the ice dragons and the other clans soon hopefully. Given the implications, is Algidus your favorite general then? Robin as a professor though? Ha, that's really interesting to think about. She'd certainly would be one of the more eccentric ones, that's for sure!

Yeah, Robin's levels of commitment and belonging to the group have been shifting at a slow pace, but Chrom's move in the last battle really advanced her feelings as a whole. People are willing to place her safety above their own. She's realized that she's actually a part of something and she enjoys it. It feels like something she never tried, or really understood, she could be a part of. Scary and exciting all at the same time. It's thanks to all the Shepherds, not just one. That's why I make it a point to have her interacting with all members in some fashion. She may be influencing their lives, but they are shaping her personality through their own actions.

Thanks, the vacation was needed. I've been going to the family cottage on weekends in the rural country out by one of the great lakes. It's peaceful there and helps me settle down after the rest of a stressful week. I've been in desperate need of a break from life. Maybe soon with the holidays starting.

xShurikenx – I'm not sure how far I'll take the water magic. The future is wide open.

Thank you. I want to show that the Shepherds have lives outside of Robin's immediate sphere. I don't want the world to revolve around her. She's a small speck in the overall world. I also like practicing with different dynamics. Showing familiar ones like Sumia and Cordelia and also mentor/student friendships like Miriel and Ricken. I'd love to show many more relationships but I'm strapped for time, sadly. Character interactions are so easy for me to write, among all things I feel.

Thanks, I am very dedicated, and stubborn. I know you recently updated too so I'll have to give that a read!

FicReader – My new job is amazing and much more comfortable. I'll have less health issues with this one, that I can assure you. I still do side jobs for extra money through decorating cakes for personal relations, so I'm always busy.

Maribelle and Virion actually married in my first file I ever played. I thought it fit at the time given how they were both nobles and very refined. Imagine my reaction when I met Brady. Certainly didn't take after either parent, ha ha.

youhavesmolpener – Yeah, unfortunately it has been. I was out of commission for six months and even though the worst has passed, I'm still dealing with the aftermath. Believe me, I want to have this done before I'm an elder getting cranky in my rocking chair. The emotional, financial, and health baggage is hopefully going to get kicked to the curb soon so I'm free to move on and focus more on my work. So sorry for the pace, it's just been a bum situation lately.

SuperSonicSmash – Nowi might actually appreciate ones with higher heels, or wedges. Whatever you call them. She can enjoy the freedom and the extra inches.

KP1234 – Wow, I remember the Wheel of Time books. I was borrowing those from a friend a long time ago with that series by Terry Pratchett. Old style classics. I should finish those...But seriously, did I write that much? That's pretty awesome, give how thick these fantasy books can be. Thank you so much for the compliments! I've always been shy about my writing skill and I'm always improving something. But I would very much like to publish original material someday and this is how I get better. So hearing such a positive reception to my style is encouraging. I appreciate all the good points you mentioned and will continue to strive in keeping them up to par! Here's hoping for more good chapters to come!