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Chapter Text

How ?

Why ?

How did this happen ? Why are you here ?

At first glance you seem to be calm but deep inside you're panicking, trying to find any kind of logical explanations to what is happening to you. Once again and despite everything that happened, you still try convincing yourself that it is merely an extremely realistic dream.

But the sharp pain in your face is proof it is reality. It is, but you can't accept it. Because if you do, then the only explanation left to what is happening will be the craziest and most unrealistic one of them all.

But at this point, you have no choice but to accept this truth. Leaving you now with only two questions in mind.

Just how and why did you get transported into your favorite game's world ?

"C'mon, [Name] ! Let me play, it's my turn, that's what mom said !"

"Yeah, yeah. Just a few more minutes."

"You said that an hour ago !"

You sigh, but finally decide to hand over your little brother the gamepad. Not that you want to, but knowing how petty he can get, you prefer not taking any risk.

You don't want any problem with your mother after all.

Your GameCube is pretty old, but is still working. Thanks to that, you both can play your favorite old games even though the game you're playing right now is a single-player one. Not that any of you mind it, it's just the moment to switch turns that causes problems. 

Your brother is smirking, moving one of his character in front of an enemy to defeat. You almost feel bad for the poor mob who easily gets itself killed with a fantastic move from the character, a boy with messy, short navy blue hair and blue eyes. 

"Ike sure is the coolest mc of them all, right ?"

"You bet he is."

You ruffle his hair with a huge smile on your face. Regardless of how many things you might disagree about, you guys would always agree on one thing : Ike is the coolest mc of all Fire emblems. You love the whole Fire Emblem serie, but Path of Radiance and Radiant Dawn have special places in your heart.

Fire Emblem, a fantasy tactical role playing game franchise published by Nintendo. It isn't as popular as Mario or Zelda, but their games are still pretty good and their stories fascinating. Path of Radiance and Radiant Dawn are both pretty old compared to the most recent games, but they would always be your favorites. 

This is mainly because of their characters, mostly the main one : Ike, the first main character of Fire Emblem who isn't a noble. A stoic and blunt yet kind young man, a bit naive and pretty stupid, but so endearable. 

Your brother often jokes about how infatuated you are with him. However you aren't infatued just with Ike : you're fangirling over many characters, it's just that Ike is the one that appears the most in the two games. A shame he isn't real...

With that kind of standards, no wonder you've never fell in love and are still single. 

You're [Name] [Last Name] by the way. An [y/a] years old girl fan of animes and video games. You're currently living with your family consisting of your mother, father and younger brother. Basically you're a nobody who's got nothing special about her aside from being able to remember with precision her favorite games' lore. 

"[Name] ! Come here !"

"Mom's calling you."

"You think I didn't hear ? After that, you better let me have my turn."

He chuckles before turning his gaze once again toward the screen and moving on to the next enemy. You wish you could watch him play, but your mother calls you once again and you know you better leave and find her.

Thankfully, she's not too hard to find since she's in the kitchen right next to your room. She's carrying old boxes filled with stuffs that definitely existed before your birth.

"What... is this all ?"

"Your Grandma's stuff. Y'know, she accumulated a lot of things in her life. And... Yeah, the attic is full of it and it's bringing insects. I'm thinking of selling them."

"... Are you sure about that ?"

Your mother nods, but you know she's just acting strong. Your grandma had passed away a year ago. Your mom, her only child, inherited all of her belongings and had since then refused to let go of them. Of course, no one in your family protested, because it was her right to mourn your grandmother the way she wished.

"It's fine. It's not like I'll sell them all. I'm bringing all of them out so we can choose which ones we're selling and the ones we're keeping. I need you to help me."

"Alright, but why are you not calling [B/N] too ?"

"[Name], your brother has as much strength as a 3 years old and I don't want him to break something."

"HEY !!!"

Both you and your mother laugh hearing your little brother's scream of protest. She puts the box on the table before heading toward the attic. You're about to follow her until something catch your attention. It's a old photo album, which is even older than most of your grandma's belonging. You did remember she also kept things from her parents and grandparents. Family tradition, you guess.

Your mother isn't calling you yet, so you guess you have some time to get a glimpse of it. You decide to open it, and the first thing that greets you is the dust.

Well damn, that must be a really old album.

Wiping out all the dust present, you watch the photos one by one. You somehow recognize your grandmother as a child, and your great grandparents as well in some of them, but most are so old you can't recognize who they are or if you've ever seen them in your life (and you probably did not).

And then, one photo in black and white catches your attention. You glance at it, then widen your eyes, and...

"WAAAAAAH, WHAT THE HELL ?!!!!"

Of course, your shrill scream is heard by the whole house. Your mother rushes out from the attic, while your oh so caring, oh so loving brother decides not to give a shit about it since he stays in the room.

You would've done the same though.

"Oh my god [Name], what is wrong with you ?!!"

"M-Mo-Mom, l-look..."

You point at the photo that made you react this way. In it are three people : a man around the age of your father and a little girl who's most likely his daughter. But they're not the reason for your scream.

The reason is the mother, sitting in the middle while holding the little girl's shoulders and smiling kindly. A beautiful woman in her middle twenties, with [h/l] hair, bright and gentle eyes. You can't tell much about her hair, eyes and skin colors, but you're pretty sure it's the same as yours.

Because she looks absolutely identical to you.

"She looks like my hidden twin but older !!"

"Ah, that's why..."

Your mom doesn't look much surprised. She's staring at it like she would at any photo, which is kind of annoying you. Then she smiles and pat your shoulder to reassure you.

"Don't worry, you don't have any past lives or something. That's your great grandmother's great grandma. I remember mom and grandma said you looked a lot like her, so we decided to give you her name as your second one. And we realized growing up, you were her identical twin, even mom and grandma were shocked."

This information somehow calms you down from this panic, and you stare at your mother dead-panning.

"So it's to her I owe that weirdass second name ?"

"C'mon [Name], it's not weird. It's unique and unheard of."

"Mom. Nobody knows it and nobody got that name today."

Your mom giggles and you sigh. Most of your friends either told you the same as your mom or thought the same as you did. Regardless, you preferred omitting your second name when presenting yourself. 

"Anyway, help me instead of admiring at yourself in the future."

"Mom."

"Let's all be honest, she's a beauty. I bet you'll become like her and all the boys will be after you."

"Mom !"

"I know, I know, you're all about your video games and animes' boys, I was like you before but then I met your dad and-"

"MOM !!!"

"Fine, fine, let's go to the attic now, you'll watch the photos later."

You want to protest, but you guess that staring at that photo will just freak you out more than it already does. So you nod and accompany your mother in the attic to help. Not that you will hear of her ever again. 

"NOOOOOOOOOO !!!!!!!!!"

You hear your brother screams in utter defeat and you realize that he got Ike killed, meaning Game Over. Because of course, if the main character gets killed, the rest of the story will never happen and all hope will be lost as the world fall into darkness...

But well at least now that he's lost, you get to play next !

You remember helping your mother bringing out all the boxes out from the attic. You remember eating dinner with your family. You remember your brother complaining about the light of the screen being too bright as he tries to fall asleep.

You remember ending up turning off the GameCube, not without saving your game first, and then laying on your bed, and falling asleep.

And you remember the voice in your head as you fall in Morpheus's arms.

A voice you can't recognize, yet seems to know you too well. 

"You're here... After all this time... You've finally returned."

"..."

"You must come... This land needs you."

"..."

"You must keep your promise to me... There's no more time left. You are needed. I need you."

"... What ?"

"Please, come. Before it's too late."

*GASP !!*

You wake up with a start, huffing and puffing as you're holding your chest to make sure you're not having a heart attack. You turn your head around, expecting to see your brother awake and mumble a shut up or something like this.

But he's not here. And you're not in your room either.

It takes you a few moments to realize you're not even in your house anymore. You're... You're laying on the sand. The sand of a shore. You see the sea in front of you, and a forest right behind. The sun is high up in the sky and shining brightly, while you're pretty sure it was night just a few moments ago. 

"... Well shit. That's some weird dream."

It's the only thing that makes sense after all. You don't live next to the sea, and you hardly doubt you got kidnapped just to be left on a shore.

And of course, you're definitely not going to do what every clichés isekai anime MC does and immediately believe you got transported into another world or something. Meaning all of this can only be a dream, and once you wake up you'll forget all about it.

Yup, everything's fine and you'll wake up soon.

Not wishing to lay on the ground any longer you get up, wiping away all the sand on your body. Which makes you realize that you're not in your pyjamas anymore. Instead you're wearing a white dress with red ruffles, looking like the ones female villagers in games would wear. 

You frown, feeling like you can't move much in this dress and asking yourself why you're wearing it. Are you having some sort of Alice in Wonderland's dream ? You don't remember seeing any rabbit or falling into a hole though. 

You decide to ignore it and leave the shore. Since it's a dream you guess staying where you arrived would be boring. It's the first time you have such a realistic one, so at least you want to see what's around before your mother or your brother wakes you up. 

Unless it's a nightmare where you get pursued by some monster or psychopath that is.

The forest is surprisingly deep- and pretty boring. Seriously, it's just trees, and sometimes birds and some other animals like rabbits. For a realistic dream, you expected way better, but at least it really feels like you're walking in a forest and you're being surrounded by trees and animals.

"Ah..."

'Huh ?'

"Ah..."

Wait, what the hell was that ?! 

You're pretty sure you heard something. It was high pitched and quite pretty, like the sound of a bell. It was brief and weak, but you definitely heard it.

Now that's not normal at all. Maybe it's finally the beginning of the interesting part of this dream.

You try following the sound, doing your best not to get lost in this forest (which is easier said than done with your catastrophic sense of direction). It gets stronger as you get deeper into the forest, and you realize you're very close from its source. 

You hope it's not some sort of eldritch abomination or else you might need to pinch your hand real hard.

And then, you finally find it. 

Or rather should you say 'him'.

Your eyes are wide open as you stare at a boy with long, golden locks flowing like liquid gold that reaches his waist, a skin so pale it looked transulcent and dressed in white clothes stained by dirt and, most importantly, blood, laying face down on the ground.

But the most striking, most important detail about him... Are his grand, white wings.

'So I'm dreaming about an angel ? And he's hurt with that...'

You soon notice there's something akin to an arrow that had hit one of them. He probably got shot while flying and that's why he's here seemingly unconscious. You don't really know why you're having a dream about a wounded angel, but you'd definitely feel bad if you leave him here even if it's not real.

And then you're pretty sure that once you help him, he will thank you, and tell you how grateful he is and how beautiful you are and bla bla bla...

Gosh, why do you need to be such a simp for men that don't even exist ? 

So you rush toward him and crush down, trying to wake him up while you take out the arrow in his right wing. 

"Are you alright ? Do you hear me ? I'm here to help you !"

"Ah..."

You hear him groan, meaning at least he's conscious. As you struggle to take off the arrow stuck on his wing due to your lack of strength, you feel him move, probably to face the person helping him. 

"You..."

And this is where everything goes wrong. 

You thought you had expected all possible answers, from a simple 'who are you ?' to 'I knew you'd would come' or some other sentences you'd likely hear from an angel in a dream.

Yup, you thought you had expected any kind of answer he might give...

"DON'T TOUCH ME, HUMAN !!!"

"OUCH !!"

You definitely did not expect him to scratch your face with his nails.

Immediately, you feel the painful sensation of your skin getting cut by something sharp, and you're pretty sure you're bleeding. You touch the cut with your hand and feel something warm and liquid coming out of it.

Blood.

You're bleeding.

You're hurt.

It's real.

And yet you're still here, in this 'dream'.

You soon realize the 'angel' responsible for your wound is now fully facing you. You gasp the moment your eyes meet, and you go silent.

You recognize him.

You know him.

His eyes, shining like pale emeralds, are burning with wrath and hatred. His face, as beautiful and flawless as that of a statue, is marked with absolute disgust. Not only for you, but for all those like you.

And this, since the fateful moment his homeland and people were burnt to death for a crime they hadn't commited. A massacre only he and his father had supposedly survived from.

"Remember the genocide. Twenty years have passed, but I will never forgive what you did !"

He's no angel. 

He's the third prince of the fallen heron kingdom of Serenes, Reyson. One of the most important characters of the Tellius serie of Fire Emblem.

You slowly process in your mind what is happening, what all of this means. Yet, despite how confused, how utterly panicked you are deep inside, you still keep focusing on taking off the arrow of Reyson's wings. 

And so, despite the latter's protests.

"I said don't touch-!!"

"Scream and hate me all you want, you have all the rights to do so. But I'm not letting you die, regardless of what you do or say."

"You- Ugh !!!"

You finally succeed with much efforts. Reyson barely holds back his scream, holding the side of his back where his wounded wing is. You take his free arm and place it on your shoulders so you can lift him with you. Despite being much taller than you (you literally feel like a tiny child next to him), you thankfully don't struggle. He doesn't resist much either (due to the fact he's hurt) but he does give you a scornful gaze.

"Where... Are you taking me ?"

"You got attacked. That means you were spotted and the ones who did this to you are still nearby. We need to get away from here, and preferrably find a water source."

"Ah... Ah ah... Since when do humans lower themselves to help some 'sub-humans' ? Won't you bring me to your chief so you can sell me like some object ?"

"I don't have any chief and I'm not going you to anyone who might sell you. I don't even why I am here or how I ended up in this place to begin with. And if I see someone hurt I will help them, beorc and laguz alike."

He stares at you for a moment then goes silent. You do remember that heron laguz have the power to read others' emotions and tell if they're trustworthy or not. You're not telling any lies and you do want to help him, so you guess that's why he hasn't tried hitting you again.

On the other hand, you do hear him mumble something in what you suppose is ancient language, and you're pretty sure it's some curse or insult. 

You pretend you don't notice. In any way, you're way too focused on your own turmoil going on in your head right now to consider making a remark.

How ?

Why ?

How did this happen ? Why are you here ?

At first glance you seem to be calm but deep inside you're panicking, trying to find any kind of logical explanations to what is happening to you. Once again and despite everything that happened, you still try convincing yourself that it is merely an extremely realistic dream.

But the sharp pain in your face is proof it is reality. It is, but you can't accept it. Because if you do, then the only explanation left to what is happening will be the craziest and most unrealistic one of them all.

But at this point, you have no choice but to accept this truth. Leaving you now with only two questions in mind.

Just how and why did you get transported into your favorite game's world ? 

Normally you would be screaming, crying, and begging whichever god you've accidentally offended and who decided to punish you by sending you here for forgiveness.

That's what any normal person would probably do in your situation. Yet you don't.

And you owe that to Reyson's presence here.

You've never heard of any event where Reyson leaves Phoenicis and somehow ends up alone and wounded in-game aside from that incident with fucking Naesala (gosh you hate that asshole so badly) and that scumbag Oliver. And by then, he had been saved by Ike but since he didn't trust humans, he ran away toward the Serenes forest. 

The Greil's mercenaries followed him in order to save him and stop Oliver for good and then found Leanne, Reyson's youngest sister, alive after having been put to sleep by her sisters. Seeing humans fighting to protect him and his sister, Reyson gained a newfound respect toward them, using the word 'beorc' instead of human for the first time.

But right now, he's calling you human. The trees around you aren't burnt, and the Serenes forest is definitely not close to the sea. 

Meaning all of what is happening now is happening before the beginning of the main plot. 

When exactly though, you don't know. You can only ask Reyson, but seeing how hostile he is toward you, you hardly doubt he will answer you at all. You can always try.

"Erm... As I said before, I have no idea where we are. Do you... happen to know ?"

As you expected, he doesn't answer at first. He looks away, not wishing to meet your gaze. You sigh again. It won't be easy to gain his trust, but you can always try.

"I... I am [Name]. [Name] [Last Name]. It's quite the shame we meet under these circumstances... But I still hope we will get along."

The disgusted gaze he throws is all you need to understand he has no intention of becoming friends with you or even respect you. Well, you did guess he would be a bit hostile...

At least he's still as hot as you remember.

"I have no intention of becoming friends with the likes of you, human kid. I don't want to know your name either, and I will not tell mine."

Kid ? You know you're not very tall especially compared to him, but you're nearly an adult if not already ! Why would he call you a child ? You decide to ignore it and to insist a bit.

"I... see. At the very least, could you please tell me where we are ?"

He seems surprised by the fact you still don't react to his insult, and turns silent for a moment. 

In your defense, you come from a world where insults are much more violent, so just having someone who throws you some glare is not enough for you to actually feel insulted.

Finally, after a long moment of silence, he answers.

"... Begnion. We must not be too far from the south east coast."

Fuck.

Of course of all countries you and Reyson have to find yourselves into, it has to be the biggest and the most racist (aside from Daein you guess). You know not all of Begnion citizens hate laguz but most of them do. 

And with Reyson's wounded right wing, he can't even fly. You're in a situation where everything is against you, since none of you can defend yourself. You've done martial arts for some years but you're not stupid enough to believe you stand a chance against anyone with that. It would confuse them at the very best.

Your only option is to hide in the forest, where you might meet brigands and slave traders who will definitely recognize Reyson as a heron. But it's still the safest one, and you will be able to escape if you run fast enough. 

"... If we can advance quickly and hide long enough, we might be able to reach a laguz country. Goldoa or Gallia, whichever one is the most reachable. Or even Phoenicis or Kilvas."

"... Gallia. Goldoa's politic makes it forbidden for anyone from the outside to enter. Especially humans. Kilvas... is not an option, and Phoenicis can only be reached by flying or with a boat."

"In Goldoa's case, do you mean they might accept to let you in if I leave immediately ?"

"... Even if you do, they might still refuse to let me in. Even though Tibarn must have warned them about my disappearance..."

Ah yeah, that's right. Dheginsea. The "No war, no foreigner, none of these shit in my country" guy. Of course he would not give a damn.

Kilvas being Naesala aka lord of bastard's country, you see how it's not even an option. Phoenicis would've been the best option (especially knowing that THE Tibarn is there) if not for the facts it's the furthest from your position and that Reyson can't fly. 

Yep, it only leaves Gallia.

"Reaching Gallia might take months. It will be a long journey, and we will need to pass the mountains. Are you sure it will be alright ?"

"I have no need for your worries, human. The sooner we will reach Gallia, the less I will have to endure your presence."

You just give an awkward smile for answer. You expected this as well. 

It doesn't take long before the night finally falls. Thankfully enough, you have yet to meet any bad guys. You even succeed finding a lake and making a fire. 

Reyson being tired, you let him sit by a tree while you go searching for water to wip the blood and food. And that's when you realize, when looking at yourself on the water.

Your body has regressed. 

You barely hold back a scream. Now you know why Reyson called you a 'child' : it was not a lack of respect but a fact. You're back to how you were in your early-middle teens. You're definitely older than 12 but younger than 15.

So you're 13-14 years old physically. That still means you're no child ! Anyway...

You guess the god who punished you decided to make the task even harder. And it's not the only thing that is wrong.

You tried remembering the whole plot of Fire Emblem Path of Radiance and Radiant Dawn. You were easily able to remember the whole plot of the first thanks to all the times you completed the whole game, as well as all the important information and secrets and playable characters you get to see in it.

But when you try to remember Radiant Dawn, nothing comes in your mind. You do remember which characters reappear in it and when it happens in regard to Path of Radiance timeline. But the new characters and the plot as well...

You don't remember a single thing. 

You've completed the game multiple times as well, there's no way you'd have forgotten so easily. You knew the plot so well your mother often complained about the fact that if you knew your history lessons like this, you'd have better grades.

Meaning your memory of Radiant Dawn got erased. Lovely.

Well, you guess you don't need to have your memories of Radiant Dawn anyway. You have no intention of getting involved in the plot. The two games already have happy endings, and the few important deaths that happen in Path of Radiance can't be prevented with just your intervention. 

Misaha's death already happened in 626, twenty years before Path of Radiance's events. Elena's death happened a few years before the Mad King's War as well, when both Ike and Mist were children. It might've already happened by now. As for Greil's death, you have no way of preventing it. 

Because how in the world are you supposed to stand up against and stop the Black Knight, aka overpowered cheated Dark Vader with both a sword and an armor blessed by the Goddess Ashera herself ? By kicking his knees until he loses his balance and hope he doesn't get up immediately because of his armor's weight ?

And of course you don't remember his real identity because it's revealed in Radiant Dawn. So no, you don't even have an ounce of a chance.

You won't get involved in the plot. You will bring Reyson to safety and then search for a way to go back in your world. You have no lead yet, but you will search for it. 

You can't stay here forever, not when your family must be dead worried over you being missing. 

You sigh, tear a bit of your dress and put it in the water, and catch with your hands the last fish you need. You and Reyson got to eat after all. You will think about what you will do next later. You need to protect him first and foremost.

When you come back, you find Reyson asleep where you left him. He didn't try to run away unlike what you might've thought. Then again, with his right wing unusable, he can't go too far without someone's help. 

You hesitate to touch his face. He's so pale, almost sickly, but you know he will hit you again if you try doing so. So you decide to keep your distance while waking him up. 

"I... I'm back. I brought some fish for dinner. And I can take the blood off your wing now. If you don't mind."

His eyes slowly open, and he stares at you with the same disdain as before. But at least, he doesn't attack you this time.

"You... Are back. Alone."

"I told you I will help you. I have no intention of abandoning you. Can I... Can you turn around ? I'd like to take off the blood. I'll be gentle. I promise."

He doesn't answer at first, and you fear he might refuse. But instead he turns around obediently. You're actually surprised he doesn't protest more, but you won't say it doesn't make you happy.

You slowly wipe his wing. You see Reyson grits his teeths, but he doesn't say anything. The blood slowly starts going off. There's no word spoken, no sound aside from the crackling fire. It is an heavy, uncomfortable silence. But you don't dare say a thing. 

His hatred is more than justified. His, and that of most of the laguz who hate beorcs. You're technically no beorc since you're not from this world to begin with, but it's very unlikely he would believe you. He hardly trusts you now anyway. You can't blame him. Because you know what he went through. 

He saw it, this nightmarish tragedy. 

He saw his homeland destroyed, turned into ashes. He saw his people get killed, his family disappear. And he saw them. He saw the citizens of Begnion, ridden with despair, grief and hatred for the herons that had supposedly killed their beloved apostle destroy and kill everything and everyone in their way, for 3 nights. 

This sight is forever etched in Reyson's memories. It must haunt his memories, haunt his nights. It has left a scar that will never fade and will haunt him for the rest of his life. He lost everything at this moment, his home, his family, his people. 

Only him and his ailing father had supposedly survived from the massacre. They don't know yet about Leanne, and they have no way to know. At this moment, Reyson is carrying the weight of his deceased people and siblings. 

With such trauma, you have no right to say something. You would be the worst hypocrite on earth if you tell him it's easy to forget about his grief and hatred, to forgive the beorc race and live on. You have no right to tell him that. 

"You... How did you find me ?"

You're so taken in your thoughts you nearly jump hearing Reyson's voice. He's still turned around, and you almost think you've misheard for a moment. Realizing you didn't, you answer.

"I... I woke up next to a shore. I didn't know where I was, so I went into the forest. And then... I heard a sound. And I followed it, and I found you."

"... I see."

"You... You haven't told me yet. The reason why you ended up here."

"... I wanted to see it. My home. Even after 13 years, I can never forget."

13 years ? In Path of Radiance, it's said that the massacre happened 20 years before the Mad King's War, in 646. Meaning...

You're in 639 ?! Ike is 10 ?! That means you're currently physically older than him from at least 3 years !! You can't simp for him anymore now... 

You're soon brought back to reality upon seeing Reyson's fists clenched. He's being remembered of the Serenes Massacre because of you.

"I... can't ever forget. I can't ever forget those screams. The smell of burnt trees and flesh. I can't... ever forget how the likes of you laughed. Mocked our sufferings. They kept pursuing us, even though we couldn't defend ourselves. They destroyed everything, killed everyone. And for what ?! For a crime we couldn't have commited even if we had wanted to !!"

"..."

This time he does turn around and you can see it. His eyes, shining with the flames of rage and hatred. Those eyes aren't meant just for you, but for all the beorc race.

"Don't you want to say something ? Don't you want to defend your fellows ?! Don't you want try and give apologies to justify what you've done ?!!"

"No, I won't. I never will."

You face him, staring in his eyes without an ounce of doubt. And for a moment, he wavers, taken apart by such a answer.

"I won't ask you to forgive us. You have all the rights to hate us all, to curse our existences. You can take your hatred on me, I will perfectly understand, and I won't try defending a sin that cannot be justified by any reasons or words."

He doesn't say a word, you don't let him the time to answer anyway. 

"But I won't let you die. I won't let you choose hatred over your own life. You've said it yourself : the sooner we reach Gallia, the sooner you won't have to see my face anymore. That's exacty what I will do. I will protect you and bring you to Gallia. And once it's done, I will never show my face in front of you again if that's what you wish for. But don't expect me to let you die because you refuse my help." 

Once again, he doesn't say a word. He merely stares back, trying to find in your eyes the lies he expects from a beorc. And you see his shock when he doesn't. 

Because there's no lies : you will help him. Not just because he's essential to the plot and you love him as a character. But because he's a person in needs of help, and your mom having raised you well, you can't leave someone in distress when you can do something about it, especially someone who's suffered already enough.

"... Reyson."

"What ?"

You blink. Did he... Did he really tell you his name ? To you, a beorc ? But when he repeats it, you realize he's indeed presenting himself. 

"You've told me your name. It would be quite rude of me not to give mine as well. I am Reyson, third prince of the Serenes Kingdom."

You can't even fight back the smile showing up itself on your face. You don't even care upon noticing the prince staring at you with a frown.

"Don't look so happy. We herons merely hold courtesy in high regards, that is the only reason why. Do not expect anything else."

"I understand ! Once again, let me introduce myself. I am [Name] [Last Name]. I promise to bring you to safety, prince Reyson."

"... Reyson will do."

Your smile grows bigger to a point you didn't imagine possible until now. Maybe things will be alright after all.

You have no idea how wrong you are.

And you have no idea that it is only the beginning of a long tale.

Chapter Text

After a few weeks spent together, Reyson slowly started warming up to you.

Of course, you guys aren't the best friends in the world yet, but at least now he is either calling you 'beorc girl' or simply by your name (which you prefer but happens rarely) instead of human and does accept your help when he needs it (relucantly though).

Which is a huge progress, considering he absolutely hates beorcs.

You won't say that you don't need him either though. Actually you feel like you need him more than he does sometimes, and that for a simple, basic reason : you don't know the way to Gallia. Which is pretty normal since you're not from Tellius.

Well you're pretty sure that even if you were from here, you wouldn't know for shit how to get to Gallia.

Of course, your lack of knowledges in geography often earns you some remarks from an annoyed Reyson, who's starting to think the same as you.

"I'm wondering if you're not the one who needs me more than I do."

"Ahahah... I'm sorry. In my defense, I never went to Gallia..."

'I never went to Tellius at all until now actually, so technically I'm not responsible.'

But that's a detail you'll keep for yourself.

Reyson sighs, but does accept doing the guide. In any way, he does need you as well since his wing has yet to heal and he needs you in case he's spotted. You're both relying on each other for good reasons, and despite your differences you have to team up and cooperate.

And that's how you spent the following weeks. You advance, and when night falls you stop. You hide when you hear noises of footsteps or see people. Thankfully enough, most of these people are just harmless villagers, who are wondering why a young girl like you is travelling alone. Some of them warn you about the bandits and 'sub-humans' (racism at its finest...) roaming in the dark, even going as far as to offer you a night in their home in case you feel too scared.

You refuse, saying you can't stop as your family is waiting for you. They buy your excuse quite easily and even give you some food. You feel pretty bad for lying to them, but you know it's for the best.

"They were surprisingly nice. I thought they might find me suspicious."

"Tsk... It's only because you're one of them. Had it been me or any other laguz, they'd have attacked right away without any warning."

"... Yes, you're right."

You know he is. There have been multiple times where the villagers' racism has been pointed out in the two games. And that, regardless of the countries : you still remember that chapter where Crimean villagers had discovered Ranulf was a laguz and immediately attacked him despite the latter having done nothing to threaten them.

Ranulf is one of the kindest laguz of the game in regards to beorc, as well as one of your favorite character. When you saw how he was unfairly attacked and treated as a monster, you felt nothing but rage and hatred for these villagers, who even ended up selling their own princess to the enemy and were punished by the latter (one of the few times you actually felt respect for Daein soldiers).

"At least, they gave us some provisions. I know it's not too much, but it'll help us. By the way, they told me their village is the closest to the Ribahn river. That means we're halfway there, that's some good news."

"... Indeed. Let's hurry. And keep those provisions for yourself, I want nothing they gave us. I won't accept anything from these murderers. Actually, wouldn't it be great if you stayed with them ? You seem to appreciate being with these murderers !"

"No, that's not what I-"

'Oh no, he's upset.'

You understand why though. These same 'kind and welcoming villagers' are the monsters who burnt the Serenes forest to the ground. So to hear you call them anything else than monsters must sound like some sort of bad, cruel jokes and lies to him.

You know that most of the citizens who participated in the massacre immediately regretted their crime upon discovering that the herons couldn't fight even if their lives were in danger, and thus couldn't have killed Misaha.

Most of them considered their act a cardinal sin against the Goddess and the innocent herons, and every night they prayed for forgiveness. But you know that if Reyson ever heard of that, he would call it bullshit.

That's what you would do, and that's exacty what you did when you first heard of it.

The citizens' crime, even if they were manipulated and blinded by pain and hatred, is unforgivable. In Path of Radiance, Sanaki asked the last two remaining royals of the herons for forgiveness on their behalf, but to you she shouldn't have been the one apologizing but the citizens themselves. 

You're not saying she was not sincere, you know she was, but to you she has nothing to do with this. Rather, you can even say she is a collateral victim as her grandmother was unfairly taken away and she had no choice but to become Begnion's Apostle despite being a literal child at the time.

She had to carry the weight of a whole nation from a young age, and aside from Sephiran, Sigrun and Tanith, she has no one she can possibly count on (because it's definitely not these bastard senators who would ever help her with all the lies and fake smiles they give her). 

And even despite all of this, Reyson still refused forgiving them at first, even at the sight of Begnion's Apostle herself on her knees in front of him. It was only thanks to Leanne (most beautiful angel of the game along with Elincia) that he eventually accepted Sanaki's apologies. 

So it's definitely not you, an outsider whom he knows nothing of, who will ever convince him of doing that.

Right now, he's walking ahead of you while you're desperately trying to catch up. He's obviously furious at you for trusting the same people who destroyed his whole life.

"Reyson please, wait for me !!"

"Shouldn't you go back to that village with those oh so nice humans ? You didn't seem to mind being with them !"

"You know that's not what I meant, what they did is unforgivable but we need to survive first !"

"I refuse to survive from receiving anything from those who took my people away !"

"Reyson please, listen to me-"

"I've heard enough, I won't listen to any more words !!"

"Reyson-"

"You humans are all the same anyway, behind all your pretty words and smiles, you're nothing but liars and monsters !!"

"Reyson-"

"And you're no better after al-"

"Reyson, by the Goddess, shut it... !!!"

He doesn't realize what's happening at first. You don't leave him the time anyway. You grab Reyson, making sure to put both your hands on his mouth to silence him while you hide along with him behind the nearest tree. 

"Hey, I've heard voices."

Two men. There are two men here. And everything, from their looks and faces covered of scars to their clothes they're wearing and the axes they're carrying are screaming one thing. 

They're brigands.

'Shit.'

You knew from the very beginning this would happen. You knew you wouldn't be lucky enough to reach Gallia without having to face any of them, but you had hoped you wouldn't have to right away.

Well, now you've got to think of something. Maybe staying silent and keeping hiding will be enough.

"Think it were sub-humans ?"

"That'd be great. Better to catch some of 'em to make money. The Ribahn river's close, got to be a cat or a tiger."

"What about birds ?"

"Better not be 'em. Hawks and crows are the worst 'cause you've got to have wind mages and archers to deal with 'em."

"And herons ? They don't know how to fight ! And you can make lots of gold with 'em !"

You feel Reyson tenses up in your arms.

"Pah ! No way, you idiot. They're all dead. Those stupid peasents have burnt down the Serenes forest 13 years ago and killed 'em all 'cause they thought they had killed the Apostle. These morons ! Herons can't kill ! Pretty sure they're all gone now, and all the gold with 'em. But nobles think they're still some left."

"Maybe they're right. I bet if we found one, we'd be rich !"

"You bet. But we've got more chances of finding a dead, roasted one. Maybe we'll still get somethin' of it ! Bah ah ah !"

At this point, you're fighting against the supposedly last heron left to hold him back from coming out of your hideout. Of course, the noises he makes are loud enough for the two brigands to hear them, and you see them lift their axes to attack.

"I heard it again !"

"Looks like it's close. Get your axe."

"Alright."

'Shit, shit, shit...!!'

If you get find out, it's over. You can't run away, not in those conditions. And you can't even fight when those two are much taller than you and have weapons. 

Reyson. You got to get Reyson out of there. He's the priority.

He must survive.

No matter what.

"... I'm sorry, Reyson. I can't keep my promise. Stay safe and run as fast as you can once they're gone."

"KYAAAH !!!"

"WAAAAAGH ?!!"

Thankfully enough, they don't attack you right away once you come out of the trees. You see them tense up, then calm down and drop down their weapons once they see it's just a harmless and scared young girl all alone. At least, that's what you want them to believe.

This way, they won't be wary of you as you try to take them far away from Reyson.

"Ah, it's just a girl. And a real pretty one at that."

"W-Who are you ?"

"We should be the ones asking that. What's a pretty little missy doin' here all alone ?"

"I-I was searching for food for my family, but I heard frightening noises. I got scared... And lost myself in this forest."

"Is that so ? What a shame..."

Oh no, you don't like this. You absolutely don't like the malicious glimmer in their eyes. They might be selling laguz to nobles... But you wouldn't be surprised if their clients were also asking for young girls to buy as well. 

"You know what ? We'll help you. Can't leave a pretty lady on her own with all these sub-humans roaming around..."

"I-I... No need to worry for me, I can find my way home on my own..."

"Nah, I've got a better idea. You're comin' with us !"

"AAAAAAAH !!"

You don't even have the time to get back as one of them catches your arm and forces you next to him to prevent you from trying to run away. Your fears are proved to be justified when he grabs your face, staring at you with a disgusting smile.

"With such a cute face, you'll be easy to sell. I know some real perverted nobles who'd love to buy you at the best price."

"L-Let me go !!"

"What are goin' to do ? Call for help ? You're all alone with us, kid. No one's goin' to help ya."

You know he's saying the truth : they're definitely going to sell you to some perverted old man if you don't escape.

But you can't. Not yet at least. Because if you do, you would put Reyson in danger. 

However, running away while being held prisoner with nothing to defend yourself would be near impossible. No, it is impossible. You hardly doubt you would find a way out of this or a helping hand to save you if they take you. You try finding a solution, you think hard, but nothing comes to your mind.

You're terrified.

You don't want to be sold like a product to someone who will do unspeakable atrocities to you. You'd prefer death over that. But you can't let them see Reyson, or he'll end up in a mansion as a trophy for some crazy nobles. Even Oliver's actions don't seem so bad in comparison to what other senators might do to him.

Or what they might do to you.

You want to cry, to scream, to call anyone for help. But no one will come, you know that. It is probably the end.

But at least let it be only for you, not for him.

*CRACK !*

'No.'

"Huh ?! What was that ?!"

'No.'

"It came from the bushes... You lied, huh ? You're not alone !"

'No no no no no-'

"Who's that ? Your sibling ? Or a friend ? That's even better ! You won't be alone, we will sell you both together !"

Why ? Why did he do that ?

You know Reyson's not stupid. He did it on purpose. He did it because he was scared for you. Because he understood what would happen to you if you got taken as well.

Why didn't he just listen to you ? Why didn't he let you, the stupid human, on her own ?

Why would he throw away all his chances of escaping with his life for you ?

Now it's too late. They've heard him, and now the other one is approaching the tree he's hiding behind of. And whatever he's planning to do next will not end well for him.

It might not even end well for you. 

You've got find something. And real quick.

Right now, the brigand holding you is focused on what his companion might found. He's not looking at you at all, and that gives you some seconds left. Yet those seconds feel like nothing but torture when you can't think of anything that might save you.

'Think, dammit, think !! Don't let Reyson's efforts go to waste !! Don't let him sacrifice himself for nothing !! THINK !!!'

Then it appears right in front of your eyes.

A knife. A small knife, attached to the man's belt. He's not looking at it. He's not look at you. And it's within your reach.

The solution that comes to your mind is the most terrifying one.

You don't have the choice. You know that. Just threatening them with it will only amuse them as they will disarm you with ease. They're much stronger, much more experienced than you are after all.

Your only hope is to take them by surprise. You can do this only once, you won't have any other chance afterward. 

This goes against all your principles. Against all of which you've been taught your whole life. But you don't have any other choice.

You can only pray you'll be forgiven.

"Hey, what's going on ? You found somethin' ?"

"I'm looking !"

"C'mon now, hurr-"

What are mere seconds feel like an eternity.

You guess it must be the effects of adrenaline on your brain. You take the knife, as fast as possible for you.

You aim for his heart.

And you stab his chest with all your strength. 

Strangely, you don't meet any resistance. Blood fall from the corner of his mouth, then onto your face. His whole body tenses up, before losing all its strength as he let go of his one last breath. 

"W-What...?"

He falls on his back, his eyes wide open, devoid of any light. 

He's dead.

You killed him.

"Y-You !! You little wench !!! HOW DARE YOU !!"

His partner immediately forgets about finding Reyson the moment he gazes upon the corpse of his dead friend. You see his face disfigured by murderous rage as he reaches his hand for his axe.

You don't leave him the time. You might be weaker, but you're faster. You rush toward him, knife in hands.

And you slash his throat.

"G-Gaah... Y-You..."

Once again, blood spurts from the wound. He tries to keep his balance, but fails miserably. He falls soon enough, blood still coming out of his limp body. You follow next.

You fall on your knees, breathing heavily, your heart pounding against your chest loudly enough for you to hear it pound in your ears and head as well.

You stare at your hands. You stare at the blood on them. Your breath quickens. 

It's red.

It's warm.

And it's someone else's.

And then, it finally hits you. You finally realize. You've just murdered two people. You just killed someone.

You killed someone, you killed someone, you killed someone, you-

"[NAME], WAKE UP !!!"

Reyson's slap hits you harder. Hard enough to bring you back to reality. You didn't think a heron's slap would hurt so bad. You just hope he didn't break his hand doing it.

It takes your brain a few moments to process everything that happened. And the first reaction you have is the most normal and natural one for someone like you. 

"B-BLEEEEEEEEERGH !!! *COUGH* !!!"

You're quite surprised. You hardly ate anything this morning, so you didn't think you would still be able throw up. You turn your head around, not wanting Reyson to see you like that. You must be pitiful to look at. 

He doesn't say anything and merely watches you with a worried gaze, perhaps fearing you might pass out. And you're grateful to him just for that, just for the fact he's present here. At least you're not alone.

"[Name]... We have to go. They might be more of them around here. Can you walk on your own ?"

You don't answer. You don't even have enough strength left to mutter a word. He takes your silence for a no, and he helps you getting up as he leads you elsewhere. You're still holding the bloodied knife that killed two people.

"[Name], enough. There's no more blood left on your hands."

You know, but you can't stop yourself.

Thankfully, there were no other brigands and you were able to leave without anyone else spotting you. You were even able to find a place where to spend the night next to a lake.

Since then, you kept washing your hands and even after all the blood is gone, you still can't take your hands off of the water. You just can't. Because you still feel it.

You still feel the sensation of these men's blood on your hands.

"I know... I know. But I can't. I-I have- I have to-"

"... [Name]. You didn't have the choice."

You stay silent. You know what he means.

And you know he's right.

"These humans... No, I can't even call them that. These monsters were about to kidnapp you and enslave you. And you would've been sold to an even worse monster. Yet, you... You only tried killing them when they heard me. When I was the one in danger."

You don't know what to say. Everything he says is the truth. 

"You would've let them take you to let me run away. You killed them... To protect me."

"... I know. I know all that. I know I had to kill them. They're monsters who don't deserve any pity... I know that. But..."

It's stupid, when you think about it. Why feeling guilty over killing people that wouldn't have hesitated to kill you ? Why feeling guilty for monsters that have murdered a hundred of laguz and beorcs alike without an ounce of regret or remorse ?

And it was self defense. It was either you and Reyson or them.

You know. You do know.

"... But I didn't want to become a murderer. I didn't want to become the same as them."

Maybe you were just being too naive. You should've expected you wouldn't be able to live in this world without having to get your hands dirty. This is a world which, despite having been blessed by a goddess, is still filled with wars, pain and misery. Hoping that this would never happen was foolish.

But you're not from Tellius. You come from a world where killing is a crime punishable by death. Where normal people don't kill and don't get killed, at least most of the time. You were raised in such a world where killing is defined as an unforgivable crime, as an unforgivable sin. 

And you commited such atrocity in a world where such things most likely happen daily.

Of course you can't be okay after that.

"... You would've let them."

"What ?"

"If I hadn't given my position, you would've them take you. All so I could escape. That was your plan ?"

"... I... Yes. That was my plan. This way, you would escape while I distract them. And once it was done, I would've escaped as well."

"Lies. You know you wouldn't have been able to escape."

You lower your face not to meet his gaze. You feel like a child too shameful to meet the gaze of the adult scolding you. But you know it's no childish matter. And Reyson as well. He sighs, and plunges his hands in the cold water to take yours off of it.

"... I feel no pity for these people. And you have nothing in common with them, you never will. You have nothing to feel guilty for. You're no monster. However... Shall what you consider a crime come to haunt you, I shall take my part of guilt as well and carry it along with you. That's the least I can do."

"What do you..."

"You were the one holding the knife. I was the one reason behind your gesture, the responsible for it. We're both guilty. We're both sinners. I will not leave you alone."

You don't know what to say. You just raise your head and look at him. He's smiling. It's a true, genuine smile. You might be wrong, but you think it's the first time you've seen him smile. And it makes you realize how handsome he is.

He looks a bit younger than in Path of Radiance, but you guess that even for a heron laguz, 7 years is a lot. In the game, he physically looked like a young man in late teens, around Ike's age. Right now, he looks like a teenager in his middle teens, a year or two older than your physical age. Well, you do know he's actually much older than he seems, but you as well so there's nothing wrong with admiring him.

You and your simping ass... You hope herons don't read minds or else Reyson might hear your internal fangirl screams and become deaf. 

"However, do not expect seeing me having nightmares about them, [Name]. I've long since forgotten their faces. In the worst case, I will sing you a lullaby to make you sleep if you can't."

You nearly smile upon hearing what you guess must be a joke. Coming from someone like Reyson, a joke is really rare thing to hear. You know he's doing this to cheer you up. After all, to him you're not just some stupid human.

"Eh eh eh... I've never heard you say my name so many times. It makes me quite happy..."

"To keep calling you beorc while you use my name would be weird, and human is an insult I don't wish to use with you. That's why I shall keep calling you by your name from now on."

"So I'm really no stupid human..."

"You will never be a human. Well, the stupid part might happen to be true..."

"... The worst is that you're most likely right."

"Ah ah ah !"

And he's laughing, and that makes him look even more handsome. Oh god, you're simping so hard. At least it makes you less guilty for a moment.

"So that's the Ribahn river..."

"Yes. We are approaching our final destination."

A few days later, you finally reach the Ribahn river without much difficulties. If you do remember correctly, it's a natural border between Begnion and both Gallia and Goldoa, and ahead of it is a chain of mountains, then Gallia's forest. It might take a few more weeks especially to pass the mountains, but once it's done it'll be all over and you'll be in security. 

"It... wasn't always easy, but it looks like we succeeded."

"Indeed. My wing is nearly completely healed. Once we reach the mountains, I'll transform and carry you so we can cross them. It'll be easier this way."

"You're taking me with you ? I mean, once you cross these mountains you'll be in Gallia, and you won't need me anymore... And I'm a beorc. They probably won't trust me enough to let me in with you."

"You might be a beorc, but you've proved you were a good and honest person. You told me you did not know how you arrived in this shore in Begnion. And you seem not to know where to go afterward. I wish to help you back for everything you did to protect me."

Well damn, you didn't expect Reyson to be such a good observer. But you have to admit it, he's right : you have nowhere to go, for you belong nowhere. You are a singularity in a world where power and relations are necessary to survive. For you, who possess neither of them, surviving on your own is impossible. But still...

"You... Are you sure ? I mean, you did say you were eager to no longer see my face anymore..."

"I'm used to you now, and I don't dislike seeing your face. I know Tibarn and the others will be... quite wary of you at first, but I know that they will warm up to you once they see what kind of person you are."

"... So you finally consider me like friend ?"

Oh, you're on the verge of tears. Reyson, the number one beorc hater, considers you a friend. If anyone had told you before this would one day happen, you would've called them crazy and a liar. He frowns and look away from you, but you're pretty sure he's blushing a bit.

"Hmph... Well... I guess you do deserve my friendship."

"Can I hug you ?"

"Excuse me ?"

He stares dumbfounded as you open wide your arms with a huge smile on your face. You must look extremely weird to him, but you don't care. To you, the first hug is the sign of the beginning of a great friendship. 

"Can I ? Can I ? Please ? Pretty please ?" 

Reyson looks extremely confused (and somewhat flustered), but you keep silently begging him by staring at him with your puppy eyes. After a few moments of silence, he finally gives in and open his arms as well.

"V-Very... Well. Go ahead- Ugh !!"

You nearly make Reyson fall rushing toward him and taking him in your arms with a huge smile on your face. You guess your excitement is mostly due to your lack of human contact lately. You miss your mother, father and brother's embraces, you miss your friends' as well.

But now, you have a friend. You have someone who will help you and support. You're not alone anymore. 

You're so happy.

So happy you nearly don't hear the sound of the flying arrow.

"REYSON, GET DOWN !!"

"WHAT-?!!"

You both dodge the arrow from a millimeter. Reyson looks as shocked as you are, and you both glance at your assailant. 

"Chief, found 'em ! Ah, I knew it ! It's a royal heron !"

'Fuck, not again !!!'

Why ?! You're so close to the goal !! Why are you getting attacked again ?! 

"I knew these white feathers around those two's bodies were a heron's ! We're gonna be rich once we sell it ! We even have a pretty girl to add in bonus !"

The archer smirks as he keeps calling for his comrades and aim another arrow at you while approaching. His clothes are similar to the ones the two other brigands were wearing. It means he and those who are coming are all brigands as well. 

Lovely.

"Reyson... Prepare yourself to run. Or to fly, whichever one is the best. As long as you escape alive."

"I know."

"Aaaaaaaah ? What are you talking about, you littl' girl ? Think you can-"

No more words leave his mouth as you slash his throat with the knife you had kept hidden. He walks back staggering before falling on the ground. You feel absolutely disgusted and horrified by your actions, but you know there aren't any other way.

You can't keep bothering yourself over feeling guilty for people who clearly don't deserve it. You don't think you'll be able to eat meat afterward though.

"Reyson, run !!!"

"[Name], brace yourself !"

"What do you- WAAAAAAAGH ?!!!"

Well, you definitely did not expect him to carry you by your dress and starts flying. Shouldn't you be a bit too heavy for him- No, there's something much more important. 

"Reyson, be careful !! There might be more archers !!"

Of course there are. There's no way these kind of people would let a royal heron laguz escape their grasp when he's so close and clearly defenseless. The chief of the brigands soon arrives, accompanied by a bunch of other men, some of them carrying bows. You even see some of them having tomes.

If these guys are wind mages, you're definitely screwed.

"Don't let it escape !! Capture that heron !! Don't kill it, no noble wants a dead one !! Screw the girl, she can die for all I care !"

And they want you dead, that's even better. 

If things are the same than in the games, then bows and wind magic are extremely effective against flying units and bird laguz. With the herons' near non-existent defense and resistance, a single attack might kill Reyson on the spot. At this point, you don't think the situation can get worse.

"Reyson, get down or you'll get shot !!"

"I can't, they'll catch us up if I stop flying !!"

"Then let me go so I can at least slow them down !!"

"And let yourself get killed ?! That's out of question, I'm not letting you go !!"

"Reyson, I'm telling you to let me go !!!"

"And I'm telling you I won't !!"

"Reyson-"

"I'M NOT LOSING SOMEONE I CARE FOR AGAIN !!!"

Once again, you're left speechless. You raise your head and see him biting his lips while staring ahead, toward the chain of mountains that separates you from Gallia. 

"I've watched my family get assassinated, burnt to death ! And I could do nothing to help them, to save them !!! I couldn't even save my sister Leanne... I am not letting you get killed either !! I am not going to let my friend sacrifices herself for me, not again !! Not when they found us twice because of me !!!"

He looks on the verge of tears. As if witnessing with his very eyes the Serenes Massacre once again. As if he was back once again within this burning forest, watching his people die, powerless and unable to do anything.

It's said in the game that he tries to be more like Tibarn... And you now better understand why. Because Tibarn is strong, strong enough to fight assailants. Strong enough to protect his people. Unlike Reyson back then. 

You won't say you're not touched. And you won't say it's stupid or that you can't understand. You yourself wish you were stronger, especially lately. And you definitely don't want to abandon your friend, your first friend in this world.

But now, the situation is pretty much hopeless. It's not like last time : they're not only 2 brigands, but at least 10 of them. You already got spotted and you're not close enough to the forest to possibly hide. And now that you've killed one of them, they know you have a weapon : you can't take them by surprise anymore. 

You don't have any solution to escape together anymore. 

It's a shame, really. It's sad, truly. 

And yet, somehow you still smile.

"... It made me really happy to hear you call me your friend. I know it was never easy, and that we had some bad moments... But I don't regret it. I don't regret saving you that day. All these moments,  I'll cherish them. And I will always cherish my friendship with you. I..."

You get out of his grasp.

"I just regret I can't stay with you more. Please, stay alive."

"[NAME] !!!!!"

You realize Reyson wasn't flying too far from the ground. But while the fall isn't bad enough to kill you, it's still high enough to hurt : you're pretty sure your arm is broken, or at least it hurts so much you feel like it's broken.

"Fuck..."

"CHIEF, FOUND HER !!!"

And once again and even more, fuck.

Of course, you can't even get up and try to run. The first thing that greets you is the brigands' chief grabbing your collar and punching you. His men are right behind, laughing at you. They're waiting for you to give them some show, to cry and scream for mercy.

You don't do any of it. You don't let a sound leave your mouth, even if it hurts a lot, and you face the brigand chief who's staring down at you with disdain and disgust. And this time, without an ounce of fear.

"Tsk... You're the wench who killed three of my men. Eh, looks like luck's not on your side today. That sub-human left you to die here. That's what you get for trusting a half-breed."

"... Sub-human ? Half-breed ? You better shut it, you scum. He has much more worth than you all will ever have, you bunch of stupid monkeys !!!"

"Wants to die real bad, I see. Don't worry, I will kill you. I thought of selling you at first but you're gettin' on my nerves, so I'll end it now. My dead men will make you pay in hell !"

Even as he takes his axe and aims it at you, you don't feel scared. It's not like with the other two brigands, who were about to sell you and capture Reyson. This kind of death might be painful, but it will be quick. Reyson is already way ahead of them, out of danger. They won't catch him.

You've done your best. You just hope your family will forgive you for leaving them. You hope Reyson will forgive you as well.

You close your eyes, accepting your tragic end.

"STOP THAT !!!!!"

Your eyes open once again and you turn your head around. You weren't scared facing a certain death, but now you don't think you've ever been this terrified of your entire life.

Reyson is standing behind, breathing heavily. The brigand chief is smirking. You look like you've just seen a ghost. 

"REYSON, WHY ARE YOU HERE ?!!! I TOLD YOU TO GET AWAY !!!!"

"Bahahah !! I knew herons were weak, but not stupid !!! Bahahahahahahahah !!!"

"... Release her. I'll follow you if you do."

"Aaaaaaah ? Think you can threaten us ? I've got archers and mages. You can't run now, you dumb sub-human."

"I have wings. And in case this is not enough..."

He shows the dagger. You didn't even realize he took it. And points it at his throat.

"I can use this on myself. I do not believe I'll be worth much dead, will I ?"

Oh god. He's dead serious.

"REYSON, STOP THAT !!! LEAVE ME THERE, DON'T THROW AWAY YOUR LIFE !!!"

"Release her. If you do, I will come with you. If you don't, you will lose the opportunity to capture the last heron alive."

"Tsk. A sub-human tryin' to help a beorc, I've seen everythin'... Fine then. Drop that knife."

"Release [Name]."

"... Bet you're happy, wench. Your half-breed lover is tryin' to save ya."

You're not happy at all.

You're feeling like you're on the verge of tears or passing out, or maybe both. Reyson is throwing away his life to save you, and you're there like a stupid damsel-in-distress that can't do a single thing except watch and cry. And of course, you know that man will definitely not keep his part of the deal.

The brigand chief forces you to get up, holding you by your arm and approaches Reyson who's standing still. He extends his arm, asking for Reyson to give him the knife.

"Give the knife."

"Release [Name] first."

After what feels like an eternity, the brigand gives in and throws you away as you fall. Reyson lets go of the knife and approaches the man.

"I have kept my part of the bargain. Let [Name] leave this place."

"I've got a better idea. Oi, you all."

He calls for his men still behind. They understand what he wants. You understand soon enough as well. And you're not even surprised when you hear the words coming out of his mouth.

"Kill her."

"NO !!!"

"I kept my words. You told me to release her, not to let her leave. That's what you get for tryin' to play with beorcs, you stupid sub-human."

The archers aim their arrow at you. Reyson realizes in horror what is going to happen and screams.

The words never reach your ears.

Everything is your fault. 

Reyson is going to be sold and perhaps never see his family or his friends. He'll be transformed in a trophy for a senator, never see the light of the sun or feel the sensation of the wind upon his skin again. 

He'll never meet Ike, never be saved, never reunite with his sister.

And it is all your fault.

Had you not tried playing the hero, maybe you'd have both escaped. 

Had you let those two brigands take you back then, maybe this brigands group wouldn't have found him and pursued him.

Had you not come into this world, none of this would've happened. Reyson would probably have been saved by Tibarn, Janaff and Ulki. They would've protected him against brigands and slave traders. They would've brought him to safety.

They wouldn't have failed like you did. 

Your mere presence brought Reyson nothing but misery. Why are you in Tellius to begin with ?

Did whoever brought you here did so just to ruin Reyson's life and take yours ? Just to have history change and have him never know happiness again ? To have him tortured by guilt as he watches you die after trying to save you ?

No.

That's not it.

That voice you've heard already told you why you were here. 

A promise. A promise you must keep. A promise you know nothing about. 

How ironic. You've been brought here for a promise you've never made and now, you will die without ever being able to keep it or even learning the nature of it.

But if that person that talked to you really do want you to keep that promise, then they better hear you now. 

Because right here, right now, you need a true miracle. 

'Hey, do you hear me ?!!'

'...'

'I know you can hear me !!! You said I had to keep a promise ! Guess what, I'm going to die without keeping it !! And Reyson is in danger because of me !! Help us !!"

"..."

"I won't go home and I'll stay here, I'll do whatever you want !! I'll keep that stupid promise if that's you want so bad !! So please... Please, I beg you... SAVE MY FRIEND !!!!!'

'        My blessing. My blessing will always protect you. You cannot die. I must protect you. I've promised.'

'What do you-'

You hear an indescribable noise.

You had long since kept your eyes closed, and now you hide your ears. You don't know what is going on, what the brigands are doing, what Reyson is doing. You don't dare open them, fearing to watch and hear the archers knock their arrows at you. 

Yet you feel only the cold wind. You finally dare opening your eyes.

You hoped for a miracle. You did however not expect this.

Ice. An enormous, gigantic wall of ice, the size of a mountain that continues past the forest and the mountains. And in it, you see them : you see the brigands who attacked you, prisoner of the ice, their faces disfigured by horror. Reyson thankfully isn't within it. 

"[Name]..."

Again, you feel like crying but this time of joy. 

You turn your head to see Reyson, not so far from you. The ice only imprisoned your assailants, and the shock probably pushed him away. 

"Reyson ! Oh thank the Goddess, you're alive...!"

He doesn't answer. He doesn't seem to be hurt, and yet... And yet he stares at you with such horror that it looks like he's seen death right in front of him. Did something happen when your eyes were closed- Well aside from the ice coming out of nowhere ? 

And then you feel it. Something liquid and warm falling from your nose. You touch it.

Blood.

Blood falling from your nose. Your ears. Your eyes. Your mouth. 

And only when you see it do you feel the excrutiating pain. The sensation of your insides burning and your organs being shredded to pieces.

Oh.

It looks like you're dying. 

"Ah... At least you're fine..."

"[NAME] !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Chapter Text

You can't remember properly what happened after you pass out.

You remember Reyson's screams of despair and pleas, begging you not to die, not to leave him. It somehow warms your heart to hear the once so untrusting and aggressive prince says such things, to hear him cry for your sake, for the sake of his friend.

It is however not enough to erase the excrutiating pain that has invaded your entire body, threatening at any moment to take the life you fought for. But at least, Reyson is alive. Now Tibarn and the hawks will keep on protecting him, the rest of the plot will go smoothly and everything will end well.

You wish you could've done more. You wish you could've helped Reyson more. You wish that voice told you about that promise. You wish you had told your family and your friends you loved them.

And so, you die full of regrets but knowing you succeeded in your duty.

Or so you thought. Because apparently, the Goddess has yet to let you rest in peace.

Or rest at all actually.

"Ow..."

"You're awake ! Praise be to the Goddess, you're still alive !"

Alright, this is definitely not Reyson's voice and this is definitely not what an angel would tell you to welcome you in the afterlife if you were dead. That, and you're laying on a bed and your body hurts like hell.

Well that's great you guess, you're not dead yet. You turn your head with difficulty and glance at the boy standing next to you, smiling kindly. You widen your eyes.

"Prince Reyson was so worried he refused to leave your sides. King Tibarn had to ask his men to take him away by force... He'll be overjoyed to hear you're awake. It's been a week since you've been here..."

You recognize him. Just like with Reyson, you recognize him the moment your eyes meet with his ruby red ones. A seemingly young man with short green hair, a tanned skin, and a mark upon his forehead. A character that appears only twice in Path of Radiance, but becomes much more important in Radiant Dawn.

The Black Dragon Prince of Goldoa, Kurthnaga.

Wait. Does that mean you're in Goldoa ? And Reyson is here with Tibarn and the others ? And you've been in this bed for a week ? You try getting up to know what exactly is going on, making Kurthnaga panic as he tries to stop you.

"W-What is going on- W-Where am I ? R-Reyson-"

"No, don't move or you will-"

"GUH !!!"

You should've definitely listened to his warning. You feel the sensation of your organs burning and something coming out of your mouth. You cough violently holding yourself before taking a glance at what you've thrown up. It's blood.

"What..."

"Prince Reyson told us everything. Trying to protect him from a group of bandits, you've created a mountain of ice and killed them. However, the use of this power... left you greatly wounded. Our healers did their best to treat you. According to them, your power caused multiple small bleedings within your body. You also have a broken arm. It truly is a miracle you're alive... Goddess Ashera protected you."

Hang on. 

You're the one who did that ? You're the one who created that ice mountain ? Not the owner of the voice- Well you do remember they said that your 'blessing' would protect you. You guess that it is that ability to create ice.

So basically you're Elsa from Frozen but instead existential crisis, you get internal bleedings. Freaking lovely. Can't you trade it for something that might actually not kill you every time you use it ?

"Yeepee..."

"Did you say something ? Oh, y-you're still bleeding..."

Kurthnaga looks so pale you're starting to think he's going to pass out. He's looking away from you, and you can see beads of sweat falling from his forehead and his cheeks.

Oh shoot. You forgot, he's hemophobic ! No wonder that to him you look terrifying with all the blood coming out of your mouth (well, you kind of understand why).

He would've definitely fainted if he had been there when you created that wall of ice. 

"I-I'm sorry, I know I must look scary-"

"N-No... Forgive me. I... I do not support well the sight of blood."

"I understand... I myself felt sick and scared the first time I've seen someone else's blood."

And truth to be told, you still feel sick at the mere memory of these bandits' blood on your hands. You can't ever forget this sight and sensation, and you may never forget knowing you will probably have to kill once again. 

"Hmm, I, erm, I see... It... is something that greatly scares me..."

"I-I understand..."

"My prince."

Thank goodness, it was starting to feel awkward...

The man who interrupted the conversation enters the room and places himself next to Kurthnaga. Once again, it is someone you recognize. A tall, bulky man with fiery red hair and eyes and a tanned skin. He's Kurthnaga's bodyguard and Dheginsea's faithful retainer, Gareth.

"Ah, Gareth. You've come. As you can see, Lady [Name] has woken up."

"Oh, erm, [Name] will do. B-But how do you..."

"Oh, I apology. Prince Reyson told us your name, but I I have yet to introduce myself. I am Kurthnaga, Prince of Goldoa, and here is Gareth, a trusted companion of mine."

The said man is staring at you with a stern gaze that makes you feel even more uncomfortable than before. Then again, you don't remember him as one of the most expressive character of the game. But there's something in his gaze you don't like. As if he's hiding something related to you. Kurthnaga notices as well, but unlike you he does seem to know what Gareth is thinking of.

"Gareth... Did something happen ? Have they found a middle ground yet ?"

"... The situation hasn't changed. They have yet to find an agreement on the matter."

"I see..."

"May- May I know what you are talking about ?"

You absolutely don't like it either when they don't answer you. Kurthnaga turns silent, his face marked with guilt and sadness and his gaze avoiding yours. Gareth closes his eyes and lowers his head, as if wondering if he should tell you what is happening. 

Whatever it is, it's bad news for you. Finally, Gareth dares to tell you everything. 

"Young beorc... Do you know what occured before passing out ?"

You frown. Why is he asking that ? Didn't Reyson tell them everything that happened ?

"I... I remember the group of brigands. They were about to shoot arrows at me... And take Reyson with them. I-I... prayed for a miracle, anything that could save us. And then, that ice wall appeared. And I... I started bleeding and passed out."

"That 'miracle'... was your power manifesting itself. You were not aware of its existence and had never used it prior to this... It makes sense now. The reason why you couldn't control it."

"W-What did happened ?"

He stops and his gaze meets with his prince's. Kurthnaga hesitates for a few moments before nodding, giving him permission to continue. 

"Tell her, Gareth. We cannot hide her the truth any longer."

"The ice... Is enormous to say the least. It has gone past the mountains... And covered a part of Goldoa's region bordering Begnion. The King..."

He takes a deep breath before finishing his sentence.

"The King has ordered your execution."

Oh no.

No no no no no no-

"Oh no- D-Don't tell me... Did... Did somebody die... Because of me...? D-Did... Did I kill someone...?"

These bandits were about to kill you and you had no other choice. But if someone, someone who knew nothing of what was happening, someone that had done nothing wrong and only had the misfortune of being in the wrong place at the wrong time died because of you...

You would never, ever forgive yourself. You would gladly let Dheginsea take your life.

"No. None died. The Goddess blessed us, none were there when the ice appeared. However... The ice isn't melting. And it took several dragon laguz to damage it. It is no normal ice at all. King Dheginsea fears that this power might become a great threat... And wishes to eliminate it. To eliminate you. King Tibarn, Prince Reyson and King Caineghis however oppose his decision. The laguz kings have gathered in Goldoa in order to find a solution."

"I... see."

'Well shit.'

You still sigh in relief. At least, no innocent died because of you.

You might end up being the one dying though if you don't convince Dheginsea you're not the Dark God in disguise here to bring doom upon Tellius and who needs to be eliminated quickly to save the world. Thankfully you have Reyson, Tibarn and Caineghis on your side, and since you're pretty sure Naesala will not give a single shit about the whole thing, you only need to change Dheginsea's mind.

Dheginsea, aka most headstrong and obstinate dude of the whole game. You need to convince that Dheginsea. 

... Maybe you should prepare your funerals just in case. 

You sigh again, wiping the blood from your mouth. You notice at that moment you're no longer wearing your white and red villager dress, but a simple white one. Yours must have had been covered of blood and reek of sweat, that's probably why they took it off and changed it. Not that you mind...

"Lady [Name], I told you that-"

"My apologies, Prince Kurthnaga, but... I wish to join this meeting. And please call me [Name], I insist."

Kurthnaga looks relucant upon hearing your request. He must be worried you will pass out again meeting with the laguz kings and especially his father who happens to want you dead. Well, you might faint upon meeting with Tibarn, but you're pretty sure you won't pass out (yet) since your life is on the line. You'll have all the time to simp for Tibarn later. Hopefully.

"La- I-I mean [Name]... I don't believe it is-"

"Prince Kurthnaga... I believe it might be for the best."

Kurthnaga stares at Gareth for a long moment before closing his eyes and nodding, giving in to your request. You silently thank the latter, who nods in response. Kurthnaga sighs before getting up and helping you stand as well.

"I will accompany you. I... don't wish for you to die. I don't believe you deserve this fate for helping Prince Reyson. I will try my best convincing my father to reconsider his decision. Hopefully, King Tibarn and King Caineghis's support will help us doing so."

"Thank you... Thank you very much, Prince Kurthnaga."

The bright smile he gives in response makes your heart flutter. You sure are surrounded by wonderful men in this world.

"Please, call me Kurthnaga. I shall do my upmost to help you."

'Kyaaaaaah, he's so damn cute~~~~~~'

At least nearly dying didn't make you lose your simping habits.

"My decision is final."

"IF YOU DARE LAY A SINGLE FINGER ON HER, I SWEAR I WILL-"

"Prince Reyson, please calm down !!"

"Phoenicis will not allow this execution !"

"King Dheginsea, you must reconsider. This young beorc does not deserve death for her actions ! "

"Can I leave this meeting ? I don't care about what happens to that human- Nealuchi, stop that !!"

It is exactly how you expected things to be.

The place of the meeting is thankfully not too far from the place where you were resting, you guess so that Dheginsea can quickly execute you the moment he gets rid of those who opposes your death. It is also the same as the one used during the laguz kings' meeting in Path of Radiance.

However, this meeting's atmosphere is... much more different than the one that happens in the game. It is heavy, uncomfortable and filled with tensions. Even if you and Kurthnaga have yet to reveal your presences to the kings, you can still feel it : a single wrong word and it's off with your head. It'll be over for you, and this time no miracle will save you.

You gulp, then take a deep breath. You must not forget that you're not alone and that there are people who will help you. You can see them from where you stand.

Reyson is there, safe and sound. You may be about to get executed, but the mere fact of seeing him in perfect shape is enough not to make you regret anything. Though you will definitely call him an idiot and perhaps punch him for having been so reckless.

On the other hand, you're quite worried about what he might do next. Because Reyson is... upset, to say the least. He's being held back by a dirty blond haired hawk laguz whose childish appearances would fool anyone. You know because that, you still remember how shocked you were when you learned about his age. He, along with the tall stern looking, brown haired man besides Tibarn are the latter's right hands.

Janaff and Ulki, Tibarn's 'eyes' and 'ears'.

And of course, there's... The Hawk King of Phoenicis, Tibarn. 

'Oh my God, it's him... Calm down, [Name], now's not the time for simping...'

You know now's not the time to, but you still can't help but admire him in his absolute glory and beauty. Ike is your favorite of course, but Tibarn is... very close second. And can anyone blame you for that ? This man is the definition of handsome and sexy. Actually the only reason why he's second and Ike first is because Ike appears much more in Path of Radiance. And also because Tibarn's much older than you are. But age is just a number and it won't stop you from admiring the magnificent abs of the husbando of hundreds of thousands of fans. It would be a sin not to.

He seems as upset as Reyson despite not knowing you. You're much more scared of what he would do if he loses his temper though : you absolutely don't want to be the reason behind a fight between the Hawk King and the Dragon King. Especially knowing that this fight could degenerate and eventually cause a war between Phoenicis and Goldoa. You can literally imagine Ashnard come and thank you for doing the job in his stead.

But fortunately, there's someone here you can count on to calm the hostilities. A tall man with fiery red hair, piercing amber eyes and an impressive physic.

The Beast King of Gallia, Caineghis.

And unlike the last two who look extremely eager to punch Dheginsea's face, he's calmer and is trying his best to keep everyone in check to prevent a fight. You feel bad for him knowing how sensible the situation is, and you will definitely have to thank him later.

Still, there's one person you wish wasn't there. He's resting his face on his hand, the only thing holding him back from falling asleep being the numerous hit the poor old man next to him gives him with his cane. You've got to admit that he's quite good looking with his well brushed blue hair tied in a ponytail, his piercing gaze and well built body. But it'll never be enough for you to forget how much of a fucking asshole he is. 

The Raven King of Kilvas, Naesala. 

You so want to punch him. For all the things he will do in the future, for all the people he'll betray. But you can't. You can't have him take Dheginsea's side, you need to maintain him neutral. You want to keep your head on your shoulders after all.

Naesala as well isn't alone. He's accompanied by his loyal servant who's trying his best to preserve Kilvas's dignity by keeping its king awake. Nealuchi, Naesala's advisor. While you don't hate him quite as much as his king, you don't really like Nealuchi much. But the fact he hits Naesala does improve your opinion on him.

And finally, standing alone in the center... There's him. A tall, eldery bald and bearded man seemingly in his fifties, sharing a great ressemblance with Kurthnaga. Despite the hostile gazes thrown at him, he doesn't waver and maintain an impassive composure. He doesn't, for he knows he's strong enough to defeat them all.

The Black Dragon King of Goldoa and one of Ashera's Three Heroes, Dheginsea. 

"King of lions Caineghis. While I do understand your position, I must remind you this beorc has trespassed our frontiers using a never-seen before ability. Many could've lost their lives."

"WHICH PART OF THE STORY DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND ?! [NAME] WAS PROTECTING ME, SHE NEARLY LOST HER LIFE DOING SO !!! AND YOU WANT TO KILL HER FOR THAT ?!!"

"Prince Reyson, I'll ask of you to calm yourself down. Your position on the matter is understandable as well, however I will not tolerate your lack of manners any longer."

"YOU-"

You can tell Janaff is struggling to hold him back despite him being stronger than Reyson. And Ulki might start struggling as well to hold back Tibarn seeing the face he's making.

"Lack of manners ? Reyson's rage is more than justified. You want to kill that beorc girl who's protected him with her life when we couldn't and when YOU decided not to do a single thing to help Reyson even if you knew his life was in danger. And now, you're telling us you will execute her for accidentally trespassing your borders ?! For protecting Reyson from these human scums who wanted to enslave him ?! I think he's got more than enough reasons to be upset. And I feel the same as well."

"I would've never expected hearing you of all people defend a beorc, King of Hawks Tibarn."

"She has more than enough proved she's different from all these humans. She has protected Reyson this whole time, Phoenicis will be eternally grateful. We should be thanking her instead of discussing whether or not she should die. So the least I can do is stopping you from killing her for no actual reasons !!"

Right now, you're falling even more for this man. Naesala yawns, clearly bored by all these talks. He raises his hand, earning him everyone's attention. It can't be anything good, you know that.

"If it can speed up this oh so boring discussion about that puny human... I vote for her execution. Can I leave now ?"

... Nevermind holding back, you will definitely punch this bastard's face once you have the occasion. You might get beaten by both Reyson and Tibarn though. 

"Naesala, you-!!!"

"Naesala, you better keep your beak shut unless you want me to break your arms so you won't raise them anymore !"

"Since when do we care about the fate of just a human ? Why not just let King Dheginsea kill her so we can all finally go home and forget about this whole thing ?"

Nealuchi looks so pale you're pretty sure he's going to pass out, but it certainly won't be enough to stop a fight from occuring. Caineghis notices as well and tries to calm everyone down.

"King of Ravens Naesala. You might not feel concerned by this matter, but you must not forget the courage she showed. She protected Prince Reyson's life for nearly 3 months by endangering hers. Don't you think this deserve at least your respect ?"

"I think I don't care the least. King Dheginsea might not even need to kill her since she's on her deathbed. Humans are so frail and weak after all."

"That's it, I'm going to-"

"I beg your pardon, but I wish to take part in this discussion as well."

Everyone turns their heads around, Dheginsea included. Kurthnaga is looking at you like you've just lost your mind. And maybe you did, but you don't care. You can't just stay there watching them discuss whether or not you should live. It's your life, and you certainly won't let them decide in your stead. 

You walk in the center to face Dheginsea. You see Reyson send you a gaze which meaning you understand very well : 'I'm so sorry, it wasn't supposed to go like this'. You smile to reassure him, though you're not very sure things will go smoothly. 

He's not the only one silently apologizing : both Tibarn and Caineghis are watching you both with a mix of respect and pity for your situation. Janaff, Ulki and Nealuchi are staring at you with the same kind of gaze. Naesala just straight up laughs out loud. 

"B-BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH !!! T-THAT'S HER ?! THAT'S THE HUMAN WHO PROTECTED YOU, REYSON ?!! AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH !!!"

You decide to ignore him. You're not the only one who does. Dheginsea is focused on you and on his son standing right behind you. You can't tell what he's thinking since he's as expressive as a wall, but he does seem somewhat surprised. 

"Kurthnaga. What is the meaning of this ?"

You fear at first he might not answer but to your surprise, he easily and quickly gets himself back together and faces his father while staying calm and courteous. 

"[Name] has woken up a few moments ago. I've told her about the situation... And she insisted on coming. I couldn't refuse. Father... Please let her live. Does she truly deserve death ? For something that was not done on purpose ? For protecting someone ? Furthermore, none were hurt in this incident. Forbids her from ever coming back to Goldoa, but I beg of you do not execute her."

Oh you so want to hug him. Kurthnaga is such a cinnamon roll, he just became one of your favorite with a few words. But this wonderful speech is still not nearly enough to change his father's mind. Of course it's not, since it's Dheginsea. 

"Kurthnaga, I've already said it : the issue isn't the incident itself but rather the danger she represents. The mere fact there were no casualities is a miracle we owe to the Goddess. We might not be so lucky next time."

"Your own son is telling you to let her live yet you still persist ?!"

"King Dheginsea, Prince Kurthnaga is right. Is an execution truly necessary ? This is much too cruel and unfair."

"King Dheginsea... I understand your point of view."

Tibarn turns his head toward you throwing you a dumbfounded gaze. Reyson would've probably hit his face with his hand with how utterly done with you he looks if not for the hawk laguz holding him back.  Naesala is laughing even louder, while Caineghis is frowning asking himself what you have in mind. You don't care, because the only thing that matters is the man standing in front of you.

"However... I do not regret what I've done."

"... What ?"

"Upon meeting with Prince Reyson, I've promised I would protect him and bring him to safety. That day, those bandits were about to take him, and I could do nothing but pray for a miracle. That power of mine... I didn't know about its existence and what would happen next after using it. But even if I knew, I would've still done it. Because all that mattered was to protect Prince Reyson."

"Many could've died because of you and your actions."

"I know. And had it happened, I would've gladly let you take my life. However, no innocent died, and Prince Reyson is safe. And I have no intention of using this power ever again, I promise you that."

"You cannot however exclude the possibility of a situation like this happening again. Your intentions are noble, I give you that... But your lack of control over your abilities is a danger to all those around you. Prince Reyson included. That day, you could've killed him along those brigands."

"That-"

"You're wrong about that !!!"

This time, you're the one who looks completely shocked by Reyson's sudden intervention. He's stopped getting out of Janaff's grasp (much to the latter's relief), glaring at Dheginsea.

"I remember clearly what happened that day. That human scum was holding my arm while his men were about to shoot [Name] down. Yet I was not imprisoned in the ice, I was pushed away while the one holding me was killed. This is no coincidences, her power manifested only to protect my life."

"You have no evidences of you what you claim. Moreover the ice has reached Goldoa's borders, and its resilience is unnatural. It can resist even us dragons' attacks. Should a beorc nation learn such a thing... I have no need to tell you what would be the consequences."

In a way, he... is right. Your power is unnatural : there are no ice magic in the game since technically Blizzard and Rexcalibur are wind magic, and normally mages need tomes to use magic. Yet you needed none of them. And if even dragon laguz known for being the strongest of their kind struggle to break your ice... You can see some influent people wishing for such power to be used for their own sake. However...

"I've nearly died using it only once, I do not believe I'll be one day able to use it to this extent. And more importantly, I have no intention of serving people who wish to bring harm to others."

"Believing so prove that you're much too naive. You are a child that knows not how the world functions, and a dangerous one at that."

You grit your teeths. You know you need to keep your calm, but dammit that guy is more obstinate than you are ! You get he doesn't like his borders being entered by strangers and that he just doesn't want any war to start but you're just a girl who wants to go home !!

"And I'm starting to believe you're just being paranoid !! I am no walking disaster and I have no intention of harming anyone !! In terms of potential danger for others, you're much worse than I am !!!"

"Indeed, but I have control over my powers."

"Powers you never use to protect anyone, not even your own people !!! How many died because of your obsession with isolating yourself and your country ?!!"

Dheginsea remains silent. Maybe you nailed it by saying he's paranoid and obsessed with remaining neutral... Maybe you just succeeded angering the one person that must never be angered. He merely stares at you intensly, which only makes you feel even more panicked. 

The other people also feel the sudden change of mood. Reyson seems to be preparing himself to catch you and fly away shall Dheginsea attack you. Kurthnaga, Caineghis, Tibarn and his men are also getting ready to stop him if things start getting heated. Naesala is just waiting eagerly for Dheginsea to transform and turn you into ashes.

This is the heaviest, most frightening silence you've ever heard. Your legs are trembling, and you feel like crying and passing out. And yet you stand still. You won't run away, because everything you said is the truth. And if Dheginsea deems it enough a reason to kill you... Well damn he's petty.

"Child. What is your name ?"

The question comforts you in the idea that you'll be soon enough roasted like a chicken by a black dragon's blast. You guess he wants to write your name on your grave next to the words 'that's what you get for telling me I'm wrong'.

Seems like this world really wants you dead. First the brigands, now Dheginsea... Maybe you should just accept your fate. But if you're going to die here, then at least you want others to remember you as someone who dared to stand up against the most powerful laguz on Tellius. 

"[Name]."

You take a deep breath and give your full name. The one your mother, grandmother and great grandmother insisted on giving you and the one you want written on your grave. Because it's the one you want to be remembered by even if you dislike it so bad.

"[Name] Makirié [Last Name]."

For a moment, a mere second, you notice something you thought you'd never see on Dheginsea's face.

Shock.

He must've thought you wouldn't even be able to talk in front of him, that you would faint upon being asked your name. Yes, it must be something like that. Because almost immediately, he recovers his composure and remains stoic as ever as he closes his eyes.

"... I see. Kurthnaga."

"... Yes Father ?"

"... Let us leave."

He blinks, completely confused. And he's not the only one : you're still asking yourself why you've still not been turned into dust yet.

"W-Wait, what about me...?"

"You're forbidden from entering Goldoa again. Do not use your power when close to our country unless you know you can control its range of action. What you do next doesn't concern me as long as Goldoa isn't involved."

"... You won't execute me then ?"

"I won't. Now leave. This meeting is over. King of Hawks Tibarn, King of lions Caineghis, Prince Reyson of Serenes. She's now under your care."

He then walks away without giving a glance at you. Kurthnaga soon follows, not before bidding you farewell with a smile. You don't move a single inch of your body until Dheginsea is out of your sight. When he is, you fall on your knees.

"Gaaah ! I-I'm alive, right ? I'm not dreaming right ?!"

"[Name] !!!"

Reyson rushes toward you, crushing down as well and holding your shoulders. He looks upset and relieved at the same time. Well, more upset than relieved.

"Y-You... You're fine, it's over. By the Goddess, you... You're so stupid !!!"

Yeah you should've expected that. But that also remember you something : you're upset at him as well for what happened with those brigands. And now that you're sure Dheginsea won't suddenly transform and roast you, you can scream all you want.

"I'm stupid ?! You're the most stupid one !! Who in their right mind would threaten bandits to kill themselves with a dagger ?!!"

"Who in their right mind would face the strongest man on Tellius ?!!"

"Guess what, I'm no royal who needs to stay alive !! I've told you to run away and yet you still disobeyed !!"

"Because I didn't want you to die, is it so hard for you to get that ?!!"

"Ahem."

You both glance at Tibarn, who along with Janaff and Ulki are observing you. The three hawk laguz are waiting for you to stop what they must think looks like some sort of lovers' quarrel. Tibarn smirks, staring at you with interest.

"That... was impressive. I didn't think any hu- beorc I mean, would be able to stand up against the Black Dragon King. Reyson didn't exaggerate when he said you're either brave or extremely stupid. You've got some guts girl, I like that."

He likes your guts. Oh god, he said he likes something about you.

You're pretty much sure your face is starting to look like a tomato. Now that you know you won't die today you can finally simp for the living fantasm the Hawk King is. You get up and face him and Caineghis who's not too far, trying not to stutter (easier said than done). 

"I-I... I wish to thank you, King Tibarn, King Caineghis. I... Without you, I would not be standing there. I can never thank you enough for helping me. I-I think I should introduce myself again. I am [Name], it is an honor to meet you."

"No need to thank us, it's the least I could do to thank you for saving Reyson. He didn't stop worrying over you, you know ?"

"You've accomplished a great feat by facing King Dheginsea. We promise we will help you like you've helped Prince Reyson. He himself asked us to."

You can see the said heron prince's ears reddening. As if trying to get his revenge for earlier, Janaff decides to add more embarrassing details with a sly smile on his face. 

"Really, Prince Reyson couldn't stop talking about you. '[Name] this', '[Name] that'... You must be some real special beorc. I mean, he didn't call you even once 'human', it's to say how much he must like you. I'm Janaff by the way and this is Ulki, nice to meet you tiny beorc."

"Thank you for protecting Prince Reyson. He didn't lie when he said you were a brave person."

"He said that...?"

At this point, you're pretty sure Reyson must feel like hiding in a hole and never coming out of it. On the other hand, you're happy to hear how great he thinks you are. You would hug him right here, right now... If not for him being still there.

"Aren't you happy, Reyson ? Your puny human is still alive. A shame we didn't get to see the Black Dragon King in his dragon form..."

And there goes Tellius's biggest douchebag. Naesala seems awfully disappointed you're not dust yet. He's looking down at you with nothing but disdain with a nasty smile that only makes you more eager to hit his face.

"You should be happy as well, puny human. The mere fact you're alive after going against the Black Dragon King is a miracle. Had it been me, your head would've long since been on the ground."

You slowly clench your fist, holding yourself back from attacking that stupid crow. Reyson places his hand on your shoulder fearing that you might do something stupid again (and he's right about it) and glares at Naesala. 

"What was the meaning of this, Naesala ?"

"I know you've asked me to help her for protecting you... But you see I had some doubts about your story. Not that I don't trust you Reyson, I know you would never lie especially not to protect humans. But I happen not to trust them. So I thought it would not be so bad if she died, especially since she could've killed you."

"Naesala...!!"

"King Naesala. With all the respect I have for you..."

'Which means none.'

"If you weren't Reyson's friend, I would punch you."

'And much more.'

His smile only gets wider, taunting you to dare try punching him. He doesn't take you seriously at all, and if you didn't know it could potentially kill you, you would freeze his balls.

"You better be careful, human. King Dheginsea may have decided to let you live, but I am not as kind. You won't be so lucky next time someone wants your head. Alright, now I'm leaving ! It was nice seeing you all, but I have some business elsewhere."

And on those words, he transforms and flies away. Nealuchi is still there, looking done with Naesala's bullshit. He bows to you and Reyson (well mostly Reyson), apologizing on behalf of his king.

"I apologize, Prince Reyson... Nestling's behavior brings me great shame. I am relieved you are safe and sound after all this time missing. We owe this to this young beorc right here. I do hope you will never have to face such great danger again. May the Goddess protect you."

"Thank you Nealuchi."

Sadly for Reyson, Nealuchi is wrong. He will have to face great danger again and that, all because of Naesala being a treacherous bastard. The old man bows his head to both Tibarn and Caineghis as well and soon follows Naesala.

"Naesala... That sly crow is meddling with humans again. I don't like this."

Tibarn is frowning, watching the flying ravens leave Goldoa. Caineghis seems less upset and merely decides to change the subject. 

"It matters not now. What matters is healing Lady [Name]'s ailment."

"Ailment ? I thought Goldoa's healers had healed me."

"It... is not exactly the case. The healers succeeded somehow saving your life, but they could not completely heal you... due to the fact they are not used to heal beorc. It seems your body still remains affected and extremely weak."

"Oh. Well that explains why I'm going to pass out again..."

They all watch you as you touch the blood falling from your nose and collapse. You're starting to get tired of having such a shitty luck.

Chapter Text

You expected you would not get better right away, that it would take some time to recover. You did not expect your state wouldn't show any sign of improvement. 

"Please tell me it's not been a week again..."

Nobody answers you, since there's no one with you. You're in what you suppose is an infirmary, and probably in Phoenicis rather than Gallia since the colors of the room fits the ones seen in the game in Phoenicis's castle. Your body still hurts like hell and your arm is still broken, and you growl.

"Blessing, my ass..."

"Oh, you're awake !"

You don't recognize this voice. And since you've met all the playable characters that live in Phoenicis, it is someone you've never or only once seen in game. It turns out to be a young hawk laguz definitely younger than Tibarn, Janaff and Ulki, with neck length green hair and emerald eyes. 

"Where am I...? Who...?"

You swear you've seen him before and that you know his name, but you can't tell where or when. He approaches you, carrying with him documents which you suppose are meant for Tibarn. He seems to be feeling awkward, surely because he's not used to talk with a beorc. Which is normal since beorc are supposed to be laguz's worst enemies. 

"Erm, you-you're in a room in Phoenicis's castle ! His Majesty told us to take care of a certain guest, imagine our surprise when we learned it was a hum- A beorc I mean ! At first we were a bit suspi- erm confused, but Prince Reyson insisted and told us about you ! I would have never thought a hum- BEORC would help a laguz... I'm sorry... I'm really not used to, erm, talking with a... Beorc."

You're actually smiling fondly, because you find him endearing. You don't expect laguz to welcome you with open arms : you might've saved Reyson, but you still belong to the race that has enslaved them for centuries in their eyes. Even if it's not actually the case and you're not a beorc, it doesn't change the fact that you are identical to one. 

And then Reyson himself was calling you human at first. While he did start calling you beorc then by your name soon enough and warming up to you, he didn't do so until getting to know you better and realizing you're trustworthy.

The boy in front of you, while being a bit clumsy, is trying to be friendly despite not knowing you. Something you thought you'd only see with Tibarn, Caineghis, Janaff, Ulki and Kurthnaga. So you are quite happy. 

"It is fine. I know it's not easy to trust someone like me since beorc can be... Absolute bastards. Especially after what they did to the herons... I don't expect you all to trust me. The fact you're helping me is already a lot, and I'm very thankful."

He scratches the back of his head, a bit embarrassed and trying to find something to say. 

"I-It's nothing... And it's true that beorc can be, well... humans. But you are not a human ! I mean, you fought against slave traders to protect Prince Reyson ! And you even faced the Black Dragon King of Goldoa ! If it was me, I would've passed out..."

"... Actually I thought he was going to kill me."

"But you still had enough courage to go against him ! And it's pretty impressive, especially for a hum- beorc !!"

"I think it would be easier if we call each other by our names."

"Y-Yes, you're right..."

"I am [Name] [Last Name]. It's nice meeting you, and thank you again for welcoming me here."

"You don't have to thank me, you should tell this to his Majesty and Prince Reyson. My name is Lotz, King Tibarn's newest and youngest attendant ! Maybe that's why I was the one tasked with taking care of you..."

Lotz ? Lotz... Gosh, you can't remember where you've heard it before... He must have appeared only once and his importance to the plot must have been close to none. But in any way he's nice, so at least he's definitely not an antagonist !

"Ah good, it looks like you've already met Lotz."

This time, you do recognize who it is and you feel your face heat up. It's none other than Tibarn, as hot as ever, showing up in the room. Lotz bows his head and you try as well but fail miserably. Being this handsome should be a crime.

"Your Majesty, you came ! Miss [Name] has just woken up, we were discussing."

"G-Goo-Good morning, your Majesty..."

He blinks, seemingly surprised by your shaky welcome. In your defense, if his abs weren't these magnificent and exposed in front of your eyes, maybe you'd be able to think properly !

"You're okay ? You look a bit red... Don't tell me you're still feeling sick ?"

"N-N-No no, I-I'm f-fine ! I-It's just very warm here !"

"Is that so... I actually need to discuss with you of something. I will bring Reyson here, wait a moment."

At least he accepts your excuse easily... Sadly for you, Lotz doesn't. The moment Tibarn leaves the room, he approaches you and whispers in your ear something that makes your face even redder. 

"So you find his Majesty attractive ?"

"What- N-No !! It's just that I'm embarrassed !! I'm not used to talk with people whose torso is fully exposed after all !!"

"You sure are a bad lia- OUCH !!!"

You hit the back of his head with the palm of your head to silence him. You don't want him to tell everyone you have a crush on Tibarn. You know it is and will always a remain one-sided attraction, because he will never take you seriously. 

You are much younger than he is, even if you take into account the fact you are older than you seem to be. And then, in comparison to the numerous divine beauties of the game you look like some random NPC, and personality wise you're boring, stupid and you can be a little shit.

Nor Tibarn, nor any male characters or even female characters will ever get romantically interested in you. You're not that stupid to believe any of them would ever fall for a normal and pathetic girl like you... You're no Mary Sue meant to become the center of attention and be loved by everyone after all.

And most importantly, you don't plan on staying in Tellius for the rest of your life, so a romantic relationship is a huge no. It would be only a source of pain and misery. Thus, your numerous crushes on Tellius's men will remain one-sided for eternity.

"Oh, Reyson's friend woke up ! Hi, miss beorc !"

You cease thinking of unrealistic and unreachable love stories upon seeing Janaff and Ulki coming in. While Ulki merely greets you with a nod, Janaff throws at the whining Lotz a glance before approaching you with a smirk. Oh, you have a bad feeling about this. 

"Good morning, little miss beorc. So you think his Majesty is handsome ? No wonder your face becomes so red everytime you talk with him, Ulki told me your heartbeat went crazy when you first met him. Also he heard everything Lotz said, so it confirms my guess. So cute~"

"T-THIS IS NOT WHAT YOU THINK !!! I'M JUST AN INNOCENT GIRL !!!"

'... Okay, that's kind of a lie.'

"There there, little beorc. It happens to every little girl, beorc and laguz alike, to be in love with adults."

"I AM NOT LITTLE AND I AM NOT IN LOVE !!! MISTER ULKI, PLEASE DO SOMETHING !!!"

Ulki looks a bit guilty for telling everything to Janaff and does try to stop his partner from embarrassing you even further. But Janaff being Janaff, he continues teasing you with that huge smile of his.

"Janaff, don't be mean. She's our guest... And Prince Reyson's friend and savior."

"I know, but her face is funny when she gets flustered. And she's so tiny with that, so it's even funnier !"

"I AM NOT TINY !!! I'M 13 YEARS OLD !!!"

This sounds like one of the sentences you'd tell your mother to let you go outside at night, so it's kind of embarrassing. But at least it works, though a bit too well since Janaff goes completely silent watching you with shocked eyes. Did you say something wrong-

Oh shoot. You forgot his support with Oscar. Oscar is 24 in Path of Radiance, and Janaff still called him a baby. So if to him a 24 years old beorc is a toddler, a 13 years old one... is a newborn baby.

"PRINCE REYSON, HOW COULD YOU ?!!!!"

The first thing that greets Reyson upon entering the room you're resting in is Janaff's scream. He sees the hawk laguz holding you protectively like a mother hen all the while Ulki is facepalming and Tibarn's newest attendant (Lotz if he remembers correctly) is as puzzled as he and Tibarn are.

"Ulki... What's the meaning of this ?'

It's you, who's still trying to get out of Janaff's arms who answers them looking extremely annoyed by this situation.

"Well, I told him I was 13 years old and- Mister Janaff, let me go !!- Since beorc and laguz don't age the same way, he thinks of me as a baby now !"

"AND THAT'S WHAT YOU ARE !! YOU SHOULD BE PLAYING WITH YOUR TOYS, NOT FIGHTING TO DEATH WITH HUMANS !!! PRINCE REYSON YOU'RE THE OLDER ONE, HOW CAN YOU LET A CHILD PROTECT YOU ?!!!!"

He sighs, but in a way Reyson does agree with Janaff's statement. You protected him more than he protected you despite being much younger than him and seemingly as weak as he is. It is your abnormale maturity, quick thinking and later desperate moves that saved them multiple times during your journey. Most of the time nearly at the cost of your life. 

And for that, he can't help but feel guilty.

"Janaff, beorc don't age the same as we do so [Name] isn't a child like you think. But... You're right on the fact I should've done more..."

"Reyson, you better not !"

You somehow escape Janaff's grasp thanks to Ulki's sudden help and goes to face him before pinching his cheeks. He winces at the sudden move and growls.

"OUCH !!! What is that for, [Name] ?!!"

"Stop saying you didn't protect me, you saved my life twice by putting yourself in danger !!"

"I- OUCH !! I appreciate the feeling, but could you stop this ?!"

"I will stop when you admit when you- OUCH !!"

He starts pinching your cheeks as well. You whine, but you still don't let go of his. He knows you're trying to prove he's not weak or useless but his cheeks are hurting and he wants you to stop it. But you're as stubborn as he is, and it ends up becoming a competition to see who can last longer while having their cheeks pulled.

"Let me go !!"

"Not until you do !!"

It's very childish and somewhat embarrassing knowing people are watching, yet none of you give up until Tibarn stops your fight. He grabs you by the collar and lifts you in the air like you weight nothing (well you're not very heavy, even Reyson can easily carry you).

"Alright it's very nice to see you get along so well but now's not the time to fight. Reyson, a heron shouldn't be so quick to violence you know that. And you little missy I get you don't want him to feel guilty or anything, but you need to rest."

He reluctantly accepts while you just nod, staring at Tibarn mouth agape and blushing. It is so obvious you are enamored with the hawk King it's almost annoying to Reyson. Because he doesn't get why you fell for him at first sight. He scratches his cheeks before changing the subject. 

"I apologize, Tibarn. More importantly... We need to discuss with you, [Name]."

Tibarn lets go of you and you frown seeing the look on their faces. Reyson glances at Lotz, silently asking him to leave and the young man obeys immediately. Janaff takes this chance to get you back in his arms, much to your regrets.

"You can call me Uncle Janny, miss Beorc."

"Mister Janaff, I already told you I'm not a baby..."

"You are 13. I'm nearly a century older than you, so you are a baby."

"Erm, anyway... What is going on ? Don't tell me King Dheginsea changed his mind ?"

The prince of Serenes shakes his head, but he can't help but frown at the memory of the Black Dragon King ordering your execution. The man, on top of not doing anything to help his fellow laguz for centuries, had deemed you deserved death for an accident that hurt no innocents, and so despite his, Tibarn and Caineghis's protests.

He wishes to forget it quickly.

"No... Actually, the ice has finally started melting and the dragons no longer struggle to break it. It seems its resilience is influenced by your presence. Now that you are in Phoenicis, I don't think King Dheginsea will complain about you any longer. It's... regarding your health."

"So I'm going to die, after all ?"

Your lack of hesitation saying those words is... almost terrifying to Reyson. It never fails to shock him how little you seem to care for yourself.

Twice, you faced death. Twice, you didn't try to resist. Only when he intervened, only he was the one in danger did you finally act. As if your life meant nothing to you...

But his meant the world to you.

And so since the moment you promised him to protect him with your life and thus, despite every insults and even hurting you. Your heart didn't lie, it never did.

That's why Reyson wants to return the favor. That's why he wants you to understand his life shouldn't come before yours. And if the need rises, he will prioritize your life above his.

"You won't die, we will save you."

Tibarn throws him a glance he can't quite decipher, a mix of surprise and something else. He remains silent for a moment then goes on.

"The main problem lies in the fact you are... a beorc. You see, our healers don't mind healing you but..."

"But they don't know how to because they've never healed beorc, right ?"

"That's right. Unlike beorc, we don't have magic or staves that can heal. Our treatments are efficient as well, but they're primarily made for laguz and don't have the same effect on a beorc."

You nod, still trying to get out of Janaff's arms with Ulki's help. You really seem not to care one bit about your own health.

"Well- Mister Janaff, that's enough !!- I guess it makes sense. Then... what is exactly going to happen ?"

Tibarn gives Reyson another glance, as if trying to finally get his approval. Approval Reyson won't give : he refuses that option above all else.

"Back at Goldoa... King Caineghis had already guessed treatments meant for laguz wouldn't suffice. For years, he and the king of the neighboring country of Gallia, Crimea, have been trying to create a bond of trust between beorc and laguz."

Nearly three months ago, Reyson would've laughed at this. Laguz and beorc becoming friends... An impossible, unreachable utopia possible only in fairy tales.

Or so he thought until meeting a certain beorc with eyes much too wise for her age and the uncanny gift to often get herself nearly killed who became his first beorc friend.

"He said that he has a "trusted friend" that could treat you. But the problem is, since that said friend cannot leave Gallia... Caineghis hopes we can send you there instead."

"And I completely disagree with this."

The moment Caineghis proposed this idea, he immediately refused. The heron prince does trust him, just like he trusts you... Those he doesn't trust are humans. Especially not after a bunch of them tried to shoot you to death. Entrusting your fate to one of them even if they are Caineghis's friend and having you live among them is out of question.

"So as you see, Reyson is against it. Normally I would be of the same opinion, especially since it concerns beorc... But in this case, I believe it might be the best option for you, miss."

You don't answer at first and instead stare at him as if trying to guess what the heron prince is thinking. Janaff is first to give his opinion on the matter, siding with Reyson. Ulki soon follows, but he takes neither.

"I agree with Prince Reyson. King Caineghis is someone I would trust with my life, but beorc are too... unpredictable- Don't take it wrong missy. And then I don't want to leave such a young child on her own, imagine something wrong happens and we're not here !"

"Janaff, she's not an infant and King Caineghis will protect her... And, most importantly I believe that what matters is her opinion on the matter. It is her life, regardless of her decision we must respect it."

You still don't say a single word. Reyson can feel your indecisiveness but mostly your worry. One would've believed this worry is meant for you... But he knows it's meant for him. 

"... Can I talk with Reyson alone please ?"

Tibarn nods and complies to your request, taking his leave along with Janaff and Ulki (not before Ulki forces the former to let you go). The king pats Reyson's shoulder and whispers a few words. 

"I know you care for her, so you'll definitely take the right decision."

You sit on the infirmary's bed and pat the space next to you, inviting Reyson to sit as well. He sighs but still does so.

"... What do you think I should do ?"

"Stay in Phoenicis. It's much safer to stay here."

"Even though there's no way to heal me there ? His Majesty himself said it would be for the best to leave for Gallia."

"We haven't tried everything, seid magic might-"

"Reyson, galdrar as treatments are out of question."

You look upset, which is rare when Reyson thinks about it. Actually it is the second time, the first being when you faced Dheginsea and lost your temper. 

"A galdr might help, but it will only be momentary since I don't know if I will have to use that... stupid power of mine again."

"[Name] at least let me try-"

"No, it won't work. And most importantly, it will be much too exhausting for you. I don't want to get better at the cost of your health."

"This is precisely because of that you need to heal, because you prioritized me over your own life !!"

His scream takes you apart. It is not the first time Reyson's angry reactions shocks people : it actually saddened many to see a heron, an embodiment of order loose control of himself and act in a crude manner. But this time it's for a good reason. And you know as well, since you lower your head and avoid his gaze.

"That's... Because I've promised that I would protect you."

"And you've kept your promise : I'm alive and safe. But now you're the one who might dies and yet it feels like..."

He takes a deep breath. 

"It feels like you care for all lives but yours. You still care for my life more than yours. And it's... worrying me."

He instantly feels your shock, then on your sadness and guilt for worrying him. Even if he wasn't an heron, he would still be able to see it because it's written on your face you feel terribly sorry.

"... I didn't know... I'm sorry. It's just..."

"Do you hate yourself so badly ?"

"No ! No no, it's not that, it's just... I... I'm not important. And useless."

He doesn't understand when you say, and almost misinterpret them : do you ignore he cares for you ? Or do you feel this way because your family wasn't loving one and deemed you worthless ? Before he can ask any of this, you continue. 

"It's not that I have a death wish. It's not that I don't care for myself, it's just... I didn't want you to suffer more than you already did. I'm a... beorc. I belong to the race that assassinated your entire clan and destroyed your home. You had already suffered so much... And I wanted to avoid you more sufferings. You are someone who will be able to do so many amazing things and meet so many incredible people... I want to protect that bright, radiant future. I can't do a single thing to change things, and I don't have anything that might help or save others. I'm pretty much... useless. The best I can do is try to live a normal life and not get killed everytime I take a step outside."

You giggle saying this, but at this point you're no longer watching Reyson. Instead your gaze is fixed on something he can't see, something far beyond his or anyone else's understanding. A future, the radiant future he belongs to, a future where you're nowhere to be seen. And it's...

"It's stupid. You're stupid."

"Eh ?"

"I will never forgive those who killed my clan. But I don't remember you taking part in the massacre, you probably weren't even born at that moment. You kept your promise despite being 'not important and useless' as you say. So far for a beorc, I believe you've done far more than most of those of your kind will ever be able to do. As for my future... I have no idea what you are talking about. But I do not wish for a future where I've forgotten you, if that's what you believe."

"N-No I didn't mean that, it's just that there are many beorc-"

"I think you're one of a kind, I hardly believe there exists beorc like you. Stupid like you, I don't believe it is possible. But perhaps it's what makes your charm."

You blush furiously, moving your hands around all the while trying to answer something. But all you can do is hide your face within your hands and mumble something like 'thanks'. He smiles, finding the way you fail to hide your embarrassement cute.

"But... I still believe it's better to go to Gallia."

"[Name]..."

"And you can always visit me, can't you ? Phoenicis and Gallia aren't so far from each other, you can go there now that you can fly properly in case you're worried for me."

"You'll be on your own."

"There's King Caineghis, I know he'll make sure things will be okay. And then, if that healer became his friend, they must a good person. And if they're not I'll just complain to you and you can bring me back to Phoenicis by force."

He sighs, not very amused by your weird sense of humor. But deep down he knows that once you make your mind you won't change it, regardless of what he says or does. On that point you and him are the same.

"... Promise you will be careful."

"I promise ! I mean what can go wrong there, it's not like I'll disappear or something !"

"This isn't the time to joke..."

You laugh again, and he can't help but smile as well.

"Looks like she convinced the prince."

"They really are close... Aren't they a bit too close though ?"

"They are !! They're way too close and she's too young !!"

The both of you suddenly turn your heards toward the entry. Tibarn, Janaff and Ulki are there listening to what you both are saying. Janaff is practically throwing Reyson murderous glares for a reason he doesn't really understand, and you don't seem to know either as Tibarn goes and pats your head.

"You've been listening this whole time ?"

"Prince Reyson, you can't she's too young !!!"

"What ?"

"Missy, what Janaff is trying to say is that you need to remember that men are wolves."

"What is this supposed to-"

"Just remember men are wolves. You'll understand when you get older."

Reyson merely decides to ignore what they are trying to say. Ulki is silenting judging his king and friend, and Janaff is still trying to convince you to stay here repeating that you're much too young to leave on your own. And yet he still smiles. Surely, things would be alright. Even if you leave, he would surely get to see you often.

He would soon come to regret his choice. 

"So you're going to leave ?"

"Yes, but hopefully I'll come back once I've recovered."

It's been a week it has been decided you'd take your leave for Gallia. Lotz is helping you with your stuff, which isn't a difficult task since you've got little to no belongings. Reyson finally accepted that you wouldn't change your mind and made you promise to be careful and take care of yourself. Though you don't think you'll need to worry much.

Truth to be told you're excited to go to Gallia. Because then, you might be able to travel to Crimea and possibly meet him : Ike. You know he's 10 by now but you so want to see how cute he was as a child. He must've probably already left Gallia for Crimea along with Mist and Greil after his mother's death, but who knows maybe with a bit chance...

Yeah no, it's probably not going to happen. But most importantly, you might be able to find a clue in Gallia and Crimea on how to return to your world. Of course you don't plan on leaving without saying goodbye... However you will have to leave one day, you have to. But for now, you just happily discuss with Lotz.

"It might've been very long, but it was really nice having you here ! I've never seen Prince Reyson have this much fun !"

You can't help but smile at this happy boy. You don't understand why he doesn't appear more in Path of Radiance, he would've been such a great playable character. You still spent funny days in Phoenicis despite them being so short.

Janaff still treats you like a toddler and has been trying to convince you to stay. Thankfully Ulki is there to bring him back to his sense and helps you when you need it, being nice and polite to you. Tibarn has been particularly nice to you, going as far as to bring you on a flight around Phoenicis to see the whole country.

You still remember Reyson being somewhat upset after hearing this. Strangely enough, he also questions you as to why you seem to like Tibarn so much. After that, you hit both Janaff and Lotz's heads thinking they were the ones who revealed your crush to him. 

Finally, Lotz has been there assisting you the best he can during your stay in Phoenicis. He discusses with you mostly about his country's exploit in wars against beorc mostly from Begnion, as well as Tibarn's acts of bravery on the battlefield or even in everday's life. It's so obvious he admires his king you still can't understand why he doesn't appear much.

You really need to remember because it is definitely important.

You didn't meet anyone else but Lotz during your stay. Probably due to the fact that most don't want to have anything to do with a beorc. You did notice some of those passing in front of your room throwing you suspicious or even hateful gazes. You didn't expect them to be as friendly as Lotz anyway. 

"It's going to be a bit weird not to see you every morning any longer, Lotz. You should come visit as well if you can."

"I should ! I've never seen Gallia before, I'll take the opportunity to visit. Ah, do you want me to this in the bag as well ?"

'DO YOU WANT ME... TO PUT THIS... IN THAT BAG ?'

And finally, you remember. 

"Miss [Name] ? You're okay ? You look very pale. Don't tell me you're bleeding again, do I need to call the healer ?!"

Fuck, how could you forget ?! Lotz, he's that Lotz !! The guy who'll get backstabbed by the Black Knight, who had infiltrated Phoenicis to kidnapp Leanne while Tibarn was away !! He was an innocent boy, and your only reaction to his death was horrible.

'Ouch, R.I.P poor dude.'

Now, you feel like crying. 

"Miss [Name] ? Miss [Name] ?!"

It's not like with Elena or Misaha. You know they were both already dead far before you arrived, and while they were good people you've never seen them much meaning you couldn't get attached to them like with other characters.

But you met Lotz and became friends with him. And now you remember his terrible fate, and you know you can't change a single thing. You can't just tell him that he'll get killed 7 years later by a black armored overpowered general from Daein who will come to kidnapp a heron princess thought to be dead.

But you don't want to let him die like that. You can't let him die this way, not after he's been so nice to you, not after seeing how much of an adorable guy he is. God, what are you supposed to-

"Lotz."

The boy gets startled upon hearing your voice after so many minutes of utter silence. He was probably about to leave and fetch both Reyson and Tibarn.

"Miss [Name], are you okay ?"

"... Please be careful. Always look behind you, okay ? Don't- Don't forget to protect your backs, alright ?"

"Eh ?"

He looks absolutely confused by your words, and you understand why since they come out of nowhere. But this is the only warning you can give as you cannot tell him that he has only 7 years left to live. 

"Miss [Name], are you really sure you okay ?"

"I... I just got remembered of my time in Begnion with Reyson. I nearly got myself and Reyson killed because I wasn't careful enough... I-I hope nothing will happen to you... Or to anyone here."

He falls for your lie easily and smiles carelessly, unaware of the true meaning of this warning.

"Don't worry for us, Miss [Name]. Nothing can go wrong as long as his Majesty's there !"

And it is precisely the moment Tibarn will leave that Lotz will die. You know this, but you can't say a thing. You know you can't change his fate regardless of what you say or do, you can't save him from the Black Knight. Your heart is being torn apart realizing this sad, cruel truth. You cannot change the plot. You can't change the fate of those destined to die.

"[Name], are you ready ?"

Reyson has come to fetch you for your departure. He frowns upon seeing your face, probably feeling your inner distress. 

"[Name] ?"

You glance at him. He too will have to face danger in 7 years, but unlike Lotz he will survive. Or will he ? You don't know. But surely as long as Ike will be there, Reyson will be fine.

"Yes... I'm coming. See you soon, Lotz."

"See you, Miss [Name]- WAAH !!!"

Lotz nearly falls back you literally jump on him to give him a hug. You don't know if it will be the last time you see him... But if it is, you don't want to regret a single thing. 

"Please be careful, Lotz... Really be careful..."

The two men watch you with puzzled expressions, but you don't care. Lotz awkwardly returns your hugs, patting your back.

"Erm, o-okay... Be careful as well !"

You truly feel like crying seeing his smile.  You leave along Reyson sparing one last glance to Lotz. 

"Are you truly alright ? Could it be that you're worried about leaving for Gallia after all ?"

In a way Reyson's assumption is correct but not for the reasons he might've guessed. But once again, you cannot bluntly tell him the truth.

"I-It's not that... I'm just worried about you all. About the future."

"[Name], if you are too scared we can always-"

"No. No it's fine. I just hope you all will be okay."

"Don't worry for us, we will be okay. You should focus on yourself and your recovery."

You know he's right about him, Tibarn, Janaff and Ulki. They will be alright, whether or not you do something. But Lotz... You are powerless regarding his fate. Because unlike those around you, you're no hero meant to save the world. 

"I hope you're not too scared of the height, Missy."

"N-No, I-I'm okay..."

"You look a bit worried. You don't have to hide you're scared, you're a kid after all."

"I-I promise I'm okay, your Majesty..."

This is half a lie you have to admit it. However the height at which Tibarn is flying while carrying you and the sharp rocks beneath aren't the causes of your worries... Actually being carried by your living fantasm feels amazing.

You can't take off of your mind that Lotz will die. And this fact remembers you he won't be the only one. Greil, Shiharam, Rajaion... And so many people whose names you don't know about. And you can't help but feel guilty about it, because you know when it will happen.

But nor you nor anyone can't prevent it because that's how things are supposed to go. A war will start, people will die and the bad guys will be killed at the price of many innocents' lives.

You should really hurry up and find a way to leave Tellius before guilt devour you and you make a stupid decision that gets you or someone else killed. You must not get involved in the plot more than you might've already done. You know you'd only become another victim in a war which ending is already decided.

You all land on Gallia capital Zarzi's grounds, the four laguz turning back to their human form. You watch in awe the castle which, even if surrounded by dense vegetation is still well visible and immense. 

"You have arrived."

"WAAAAH ?!!"

You're caught by Ulki before you fall, startled by the unknown voice. You're the only one who seems to be surprised, the man holding you apologizing.

"I apologize... I should've warned you he was coming. He's especially discreet so it's easy to get surprised."

You don't understand what he means until you see who's the mysterious intruder. One would nearly mistake him for King Caineghis. For he is the black lion who's the most trusted man and friend of the king. 

King Caineghis's shadow, Giffca. 

Just like with Gareth, he shows little to no emotions on his face. He bows his head respectfully to both Tibarn and Reyson, addressing himself to the former.

"It is a relief to see your travel was a safe one, King Tibarn, Prince Reyson. King Caineghis is waiting the throne, he wishes to discuss with you."

"It has been a while, Giffca. Just like King Caineghis has offered, we've brought [Name]. I hope we can trust you to help her recover."

His gaze falls on you, and you gulp. You know Giffca is not a bad guy, but he's quite intimidating especially since he's almost twice your size and is as powerful as a royal laguz.

"You must be Lady [Name]. I am Giffca, his Majesty's shadow. Your healer has yet to come, but she should arrive soon."

'She' ? So your healer is a woman ? You guess the King must've thought you'd feel more at ease with someone of the same gender. You do wonder who it might be though as there's no female healers other than Mist, who's 8 by now. Surely someone you've never seen in game. 

"I-It is a pleasure to meet you, Sir. As you must know already I am [Name] [Last Name]. I... If possible, I wish to wait for her outside. This way King Caineghis and King Tibarn will be able to discuss of other matters than myself. Also I would like to see the castle."

Reyson doesn't look very eager to let you on your own, but doesn't say anything since you both know this is a safe place and no one will attack you here. And then in the worst case you will just have to scream and Ulki will hear you.

Giffca doesn't seem to be against it, though even if he is you can't tell since his expression doesn't change.

"Very well then. I will send you someone once the healer has come. This way, please."

He guides you through the insides of the castle, which corridors are open on the outside. You see multiple people in there, some too busy with their tasks and others throwing you curious gazes. You do guess it must be weird to see three hawks, a heron and a beorc on their way to meet the King of beasts.

You on the other hand are focused on the vegetation and the multiple flowers growing. It looks like a nice place to rest in... You stop yourself in the middle of the corridor earning you a frown from Reyson.

"[Name] ? Is something the matter ?"

"If you don't mind, I will wait you there."

"I will wait outside with you then."

"No, it's fine. You should go with the others, this way you can discuss with King Caineghis about my stay here."

"You should be the one having this conversation... But fine. If you-"

"If I need help, I'll scream on top of my lungs so that Ulki can hear me."

"Just screaming a bit will be enough. Don't go destroying everyone's ears."

Reyson's joke brings on your face the first true smile you had since a while. You rush toward him and hug him which surprises him. 

"W-What is that for ? You hug people a lot recently."

"I just loving my friends. Especially my first friend here."

"... You're quite childish."

He says that but you just know he's actually smiling fondly, perhaps being remembered of Leanne by your gesture. You might be completely useless but you made an edgy laguz who hates humans actually like one of them despite not being a protagonist.

If that's not an incredible fit, then you don't know what it is.

You wave goodbye as you run away toward the outside of the castle. Now that you're no longer among your weird group less people mind your presence, making you much more at ease. You keep walking away until you're finally out of curious sights.

You sit on the fresh grass and fall on your back before letting out a long, long sigh.

"Aaaaaaah... Feels nice..."

Finally you're at peace, laying among flowers and without anyone threatening your life or any sudden bleedings slowly taking away your forces. Finally you can remind yourself of everything you've had to put in the back of your mind lately.

It's been three months by now. Three months since you've arrived here without knowing how or why in the middle of Begnion and meeting with Reyson. Three months since you've been away from your world.

At this point you're pretty sure your family is thinking the worst has happened to you, searching everywhere to find you dead or alive. You're making them live a real nightmare while you're actually alive and well surrounded. 

You want to go home. You want to apologize for worrying them over your disappearance. They would probably not believe what is happening to you and would instead think you ran away from home or got kidnapped and somehow escaped. Regardless of what, you wouldn't care. You just want to see them.

You can't stay here forever. You cannot remain in a world you don't belong to. To hell that promise, so far it only brought you trouble and you still have no idea of the meaning of this voice's words or its goals regarding you. This world will soon be engulfed by the flames of wars and hundreds of thousands will be consumed by those flames and perish.

And only you are aware of this. And this knowledge is tormenting you. You wish you could reveal everything, warn everyone and prevent this. But who would believe you, a girl coming out of nowhere claiming that Daein's King will invade Crimea, take the capital in a few days and then on declare war to the entire world ?

In the best case, you'll be mocked and treated as a mad woman. In the worst Ashnard will get rid of you in case he fears you know too much, which is indeed the case. 

You don't belong here. You miss your world and your loved ones.

You can't do anything. You know too much yet can say nothing.

You fear killing and getting killed. You fear coming to care and love people who will themselves be killed.

So you want to leave Tellius. To disappear from this world the same way you've appeared. 

Before you're broken beyond repair.

"Are you okay...?"

"... Huh ?"

You didn't even notice you had closed your eyes and dozed off. You probably are much more tired than you appear to be. Your sight is blurry upon opening your eyes, and you can only see the tiny silhouette of a child crushed down and standing above you. You cannot tell whether they are beorc or laguz.

You don't quite understand why but instinctively you reach your hand for their cheek. Perhaps are you reminded of your younger sibling. The child does not budge at the gesture, and you press your lips into a small but genuine smile.

"Ah, good morning... Thank you for waking me..."

The child still gives no answer yet their gaze never stray away from you, as if they couldn't bring themselves to look away. Your gaze doesn't leave them either as if deep within you, you knew this meeting would mark you for the rest of your existence. 

"Ah, there you are !"

This new voice, even more high pitched than the child's finish to wake you up entirely. Your sight is now clear and finally, finally you see this child. And forever this sight will remain engraved within your memory and your heart.

You see him.

Your eyes meet with his blue ones. Those blue eyes so innocent and ignorant, ignorant of the horrors of this world. Those tenders blue eyes that will come to witness so many things, beautiful and terrible alike and be changed by them. He will become brave, braver than anyone. He will become strong, stronger than anyone. 

Yet the warmth of this child's eyes will never fade. 

'I don't want any of you dying on me ! Remember- You only have one life ! At a time like this, it doesn't matter what our blood ties are. We are family. That's what my father always used to say. And today...for the first time... I understand why he said it... Because we are a family.'

This child is the son of a mercenary who will follow in his father's steps. Slowly but surely, he will advance. Losing so much, yet gaining so much as well.

'So if you don't want to cause your family any grief, then live ! Don't drop your guard ! Don't turn your back ! Use every drop of your strength ! Our road has been long, but it ends today !'

He will come to face many obstacles, many battles seemingly so hopeless and yet will never give up. Not even in the face of enemies seemingly invincible will he lose.

'Let's liberate Crimea and free our friends...and our families...from Daein's tyranny ! Men of Crimea...Laguz of Tellius...Greil Mercenaries...MOVE OUT !!'

This child will become a hero. He will become the leader of the Greil mercenaries. He will unite the beorc and laguz races and reconciliate them. He will become a hero, the greatest hero of this world and of all times.

The protagonist of Path of Radiance, Ike.

Chapter Text

You can barely believe what is in front of your eyes. You can't take away your eyes of him, and neither does he look away from you. It looks like a dream, and yet... You know it is reality.

In front of you is Ike, Path of Radiance's lord and protagonist.

He is so... tiny and cute, and he's watching with such large and innocent eyes. You want to engulf him in a bear hug and cover his face with kisses, but you'd definitely freak him out. He must be 9-10 years old since you're probably still in 639, so a stranger trying to do something like this would definitely traumatize him.

You let your hand fall from his cheek and lift your upper body. Ike also moves to give you some space, still staring at you probably asking himself why a teenage girl he has never seen before and laying asleep in the middle of a flower field is touching his cheek out of nowhere. 

"Ah... I'm sorry, I was still half asleep... It's inappropriate of me to touch your face..."

"N-No, it's fine !"

He shakes his head vigorously, and you can't help but coo and smile fondly. It's asking you all your strength not to just scream like the fangirl you are and cuddle him to death. 

"I'm glad you're okay ! I saw you laying there and I thought you were sick and you fainted !"

"I see, so you came to help me... Thank you so very much. You are a very kind and brave boy."

Ike's expression brightens and he shows you the most adorable smile you've seen in your life. At this rate you're going to die from a heart attack from how cute he is before your blessing can even kill you.

"Ike~~~~~~~~~~~"

Your gaze leaves Ike for the first time and falls on the tiny little girl running among the flowers and screaming her brother's name. A young child with short hazel hair inherited from her father, and beautiful sky blue eyes inherited from her mother, wearing a pretty yellow and green dress. 

You recognize this child as the youngest child of Elena and Greil. A kindhearted and cheerful girl with a heart so pure she can even touch Lehran's medallion and not be affected by its power. Something only her, her mother and the herons can do. 

Ike's younger sister, Mist.

"Ike, you big dummy ! I've been looking for you and screaming and you didn't answer me !!"

"OUCH !"

She runs toward her brother and starts hitting him with her tiny fists. Ike whines and apologizes, trying to explain the situation while protecting himself from his sister's punches.

"I'm sorry Mist- Ouch !! I saw her laying on the ground and I thought she was hurt- Ouch, stop it !! But look, she's okay !"

Mist ceases her ruthless attacks on her older sibling and lays her eyes upon you. You sweatdropp, not knowing what to do aside from awkwardly waving your hand.

"G-Good morning... I'm sorry, it's my fault your brother didn't answer you, he was trying to help me."

"O-Oh... Good morning..."

She's watching you with marvelled eyes as if you are some sort of magical being she's only seen in fairy tales. You're a bit embarrassed especially that now those two adorable children are staring at you with the same intensity. Welp, what are you supposed to do, start the conversation and explain everything that has happened to you so far to end up in the middle of this flower field in Gallia ? Oh wait that remembers you-

"I'm sorry, I have to go ! Goodbye, it was nice meeting you both !"

"Eh ??? Ah, wait !"

The siblings jump as you suddenly get up and start running away from them. As much as you'd love to discuss with them a bit more, you cannot. First because Reyson and everyone are waiting for you in Gallia's castle...

And second and most importantly, you mustn't change history in any ways. Of course they're just children for now and whatever you might say probably won't have any impact on the future, but you can never be too careful. You've already had your wish granted and met Ike as a child and even Mist. You shouldn't be too greedy and ask for more.

"She left so suddenly... She looked like she was in a hurry... She didn't even tell us her name. What has gotten into her, Ike ?" 

"..."

"Ike ?"

Mist blinks at the sight of her silent brother staring at the direction you took to leave. A sly smile reaches her lips as she teases her brother. 

"Looks like Ike got a crush~~~"

"Wha- No !!"

"Come on, Ike ! She was pretty like a fairy, as pretty as Mom ! I'll tell everyone about it !"

"Mist, stop it !! I swear it's not like that, it's just..."

"What ?"

"... I feel like she already knew me."

Fortunately for you, neither Ike nor Mist decided to pursue you. You guess that your leave was so sudden they didn't have the time to react.

Well more importantly, you need to focus on other matters. It's very likely your healer has already arrived or that at least Caineghis and Tibarn and Reyson are done chatting. So you'd better hurry and go back to the castle... Which reminds you that you don't know the way back to the castle. 

"... I really need to fix my shitty sense of direction."

"Ah, there you are !"

You frown hearing an unknown voice call for you. Oh, that's right. Giffca did tell you he would order someone to fetch you once your healer would be here. Your gaze moves in direction to the voice, expecting to see some random laguz you've never seen before in game- 

Your heart skips a beat.

"You are... Lady [Name], correct ? I am..."

You don't need him to introduce himself. You already know who he is. You don't know if it's because you've rescued Reyson or just because of the numerous times you've narrowly escaped death, but it seems the God of Simps has finally rewarded you for your actions by spoiling you rotten today.

First, tiny and cute little Ike and Mist and now... him.

A young cat laguz, much younger than he will be at the time the game's plot starts, with short messy blue hair, heterochromatic eyes and adorable cat ears and tail. A commander of Gallia's army and great ally to the Greil mercenaries. 

King Caineghis's trusted vassal, Ranulf. 

That's it. This is the best day of your life, nothing can go wrong today. You're meeting every single one of your favorite characters on the same day and you didn't bleed or pass out yet. It would almost make you forget the fact you need to hurry and leave Tellius before the plot begins.

"Erm... You're okay ?"

"I've never been feeling better than today."

Wait, you said that out loud ? You sadly realize you did because Ranulf is staring at you with confused eyes. Oh great, now he's going to think you're mad- Hang on, you are mad !! Who in their right mind would go and face death multiple times all the while knowing about the dark future that awaits this world and somehow acts like nothing is wrong ?! 

"I-I mean, I didn't bleed once today ! I-I'm sorry I sounded so weird... I-I'm [Name], no need for honorifics ! It's nice to meet you, I'll be in your care from now on !"

He doesn't seem very convinced by your excuse, but not upset either. Actually he looks quite pleased, perhaps because he's not used to a beorc being polite to a laguz. Even if there are beorc living in Gallia, you hardly doubt there are a lot of interactions between the beorc and laguz populations, and so despite Caineghis and Ramon's efforts.

"You are a lot more timid than I thought. To believe you've actually faced the Black Dragon King himself... I'm starting to believe King Caineghis exaggerated quite a bit."

Did the news a 'beorc' was suicidal enough to tell the strongest laguz warrior of all times he was wrong and had the nerve to survive somehow spread through all laguz nations of Tellius ? No because at this rate, every laguz will think you are either really dumb or have a death wish. 

"Erm... L-Let's not talk about that, please..."

"My bad, I guess it must be an experience you don't want to remember. Once again, I'm Ranulf, I hope we'll get along."

You feel your face heat up and you don't even understand why, he's just being polite like anyone would. But you are a huge simp and the bare minimun is enough for you to feel flustered like a young maiden. Fortunately for the remaining pride you have, Ranulf doesn't question you about your weird reaction and instead focus on his task.

"But now is not the time to get to know each other better, the King wishes to meet you. He's still with the Hawk King and the White Prince, they're in the throne room. The healer has arrived." 

"Alright then, I shouldn't make them wait any longer. Please lead me there, Ranulf."

He nods and indicates you the way, all the while smiling and chatting. You're on cloud nine : you've met most of your favorite characters and might get to meet more of them soon enough since you will stay in Gallia for quite a while. And there's no one here who wants you dead. Nothing can make this day better or ruin it.

Like really, what could go wrong today ?

"Your Majesty, I've brought Lady [Name] just as you ordered."

You can't help but feel out of place being present in the same room than two kings, their most important retainers and a prince of a fallen kingdom. You're no noble or important character, the mere facts you got to meet so many important people and be there are pure luck.

Though you guess this luck is counterbalanced by your uncanny ability to bring problems to yourself. 

Regardless, Caineghis welcomes you with a warm smile that slightly eases your mind.

"Lady [Name], it is a pleasure to see you again under... much better conditions."

You hear Reyson clicks his tongue, still having the incident with Dheginsea in his mind and definitely not ready to forgive him. Not that it surprises you much knowing his story. Caineghis does not question his reaction and instructs Ranulf to leave.

"Thank you for bringing her here, Ranulf. You may leave."

"Yes, your Majesty."

You feel a slight pinch in your heart watching him leave. You know you will get to see him again, but you didn't want Ranulf to leave after you finally got to meet him ! Anyway...

You notice the King's attention is still on Reyson, who's looking grumpier than usual. Looks like not even Caineghis is able to convince Reyson to trust any other beorc than you... Talking about another beorc, you still don't see the healer. Is she scared to meet Tibarn and Reyson ? Or perhaps Caineghis feared Reyson would show himself hostile toward her, which is the most probable reason for her absence.

"Prince Reyson... I understand your doubts regarding the situation. However, I hope you can accept it for Lady [Name]'s sake."

"... If anything happens to her here, I will hold you responsible."

"Reyson !!"

You're apparently the only one who minds his words. Caineghis doesn't answer back nor does he express any kind of anger. Giffca is Giffca. Tibarn and Ulki don't try to ease Reyson's mind and stay awfully silent. Janaff himself looks like he's agreeing with the prince. Caineghis takes a deep breath, addressing himself to Reyson. 

"I promise to ensure her safety, Prince Reyson. Nothing will happen to her."

You know Caineghis is telling the truth. First, because he's an honorable and trustworthy man. And second, Reyson's reaction tells you that Caineghis isn't lying. Tibarn has most likely noticed as well and changes the subject.

"I have no doubt you will, King Caineghis. We will come here to visit from time to time, Reyson insisted on that and I couldn't refuse. And then... If those rumors are true, then we must absolutely discuss again soon."

Rumors ? What rumors-

Then it hits you. You understand what they were discussing about when you were away. A matter that concerns every laguz of Tellius, regardless of their tribe. 

The feral ones. Laguz who've lost their minds and gained the ability to remain in their beast forms in exchange for their souls. Laguz victims of the most disgusting bastard mad scientist you've ever seen, laguz who've been fed with poison to be weaponized like mere tools.

You feel your heart sink in the bottom of your stomach. Once again, you know of it. And once again, you must remain silent. You cannot tell the truth, nor can you lie as Reyson can tell when you do. If feral ones already started appearing 7 years before the plot begins, then the number of victims will definitely increase due to Ashnard's project of using them as weapons in the war.

You want to throw up. You're disgusted, both by Daein's cruelty and absolute lack of humanity... And your utter powerlessness. Once again, you can do nothing but watch as others lose their lives.

That's why you have to leave. You must. You will never be able to stand watching the events of the game unfold themselves, watch as some die and others suffer when you knew from the beginning all of this would happen and you've done nothing to help. Even if those sufferings will all end one day, even if you know the ending will be a happy one, you can't. 

Because these victims are no longer just minor characters or mobs you never got to see or even cared for in your favorite game. They're alive. They're people. They have loved ones, feelings, dreams. And the idea of witnessing their cruel demise is unbearable to you. Even if back in your world you might not be able to forget all of this, at least you will not have to witness the horrors of war and your mind will be at ease.

Because you'll be forever gone from Tellius, forgotten by all and aware that regardless of what, things will go as planned with or without your intervention and everything will end well.

Yes. Once you'll be gone, it'll be all over. You won't bring anyone troubles anymore. You won't put anyone in danger anymore.

And you won't be tormented by the knowledge of events that are beyond you anymore.

"... Then we have an agreement. We'll be leaving now."

You blink, realizing you've been spacing out during the whole conversation. Now it's over, and Reyson, Tibarn, Janaff and Ulki are on their way to leave. Tibarn goes to pat your head, Ulki your shoulder and Janaff chokes in a hug before being dragged out of the room by the formers.

"Rest well, little [Name]. We'll be coming back soon."

"See you very soon, Miss [Name]."

"If you're scared or anything, I'll bring you back to Phoenicis okay ?!! Actually are you still sure you want to do this, maybe I should stay here-"

"Janaff, I'm okay. You don't need to worry this much, we'll be seeing each other very soon. Thank you for all your help, I'm looking forward your visits."

Only Reyson has yet to say anything. He definitely noticed your weird behavior, and you pray he believes you're just panicked about the future and not because you actually know what's happening and will happen but can't tell a word of it...

You should really stop overthinking.

"... You know you can tell me everything, right ?"

"It's okay, I'm fine. I'm just..."

"Worried about the future again ?"

You let out a chuckle, but deep down you know he's not far from the truth. You are scared, but not for yourself. Because you don't belong to the future of this world. Instead you're scared for all those who can't run away and must face it. Like Reyson, who you hug once again. Deep down, you still wish to protect him. You still see him as this wounded angel you've met upon arriving in this world and to whom you promised you would protect him.

But so, so many people will come to protect him, better than you will ever be able to. He doesn't need you anymore, and it somehow hurts to realize this.

"What is that for ? We'll be seeing each other soon."

"I just feel like I had to. See you soon, Reyson."

"Goodbye, [Name]. I'll come here as often as possible."

He awkwardly returns your hug, and you can't help but laugh again. You're going to miss him so much, your favorite fiery heron boy. After a very long moment you let go of him. Reyson almost looks disappointed when you do, but it must be you who's imagining things. 

He gives one last glance at Caineghis, a final warning to keep his promise before leaving. You send the king an apologetic gaze but he really doesn't mind Reyson's behavior.

"I apologize for this, Your Majesty. Reyson is being overprotective."

"There is no need, Prince Reyson's worries are understandable considering what you both went through. Which is why I will ensure you are safe and well cared of."

"Your Majesty... I am truly thankful."

You bow your head as low as you can. You hear Caineghis chuckle, then ask Giffca who of course has been silent the whole time to bring your healer. 

"You really are a very polite beorc. Giffca, tell her to come in. I will have to apologize for all the wait, raising children is an already difficult task yet she kindly accepted to help us."

Children ? So she is a mother ?

The more you get to learn about her, the more you ask yourself questions about this mysterious healer. To begin with, you've never heard of any beorc healer being friend with Caineghis. If she is indeed his friend, she should have had been mentioned in dialogues at least once. Yet nothing.

Not only that, but only a few beorc got to make acquaintance with and become friends with the king : King Ramon, Greil, and you guess you can count Titania as well. But Titania isn't a healer, she can't even use magic. Then who can it be ?

An idea pop in your head, but you soon shake it off. There is no way on earth it can be her. It is already too late by now. It is definitely someone you've never seen before after all.

"I've brought her, Your Majesty."

"I apologize for my lateness, your Majesty."

You hear a feminine voice along with Giffca's and you turn your gaze toward the entrance of the throne room.

For a second, your heartbeat stops.

Your heart sinks even deeper into the depths of your body. Your breathing gets quicker, more painful. Your pupils are dilated to the point it hurts. Your legs are trembling. You feel like passing out on the spot at any moment now.

You are glad Reyson isn't here to sense your terror, or else he would've immediately deemed the healer a danger for you and would've made a fuss. But she isn't a danger. She is the one in danger. And she shouldn't be here. She shouldn't be alive anymore. Not at this point.

"Not at all. I am to blame for making you wait. I hope you did not have any difficulties coming here."

"My travel was a safe one. I came along with my children, so it was like a walk in the forest. For now they are playing outside, I hope they're not causing any problem."

Why didn't you realize it sooner ?! It should've hit you the moment you met Ike and Mist. Ike had no idea he was born and lived the first years of his life in Gallia in game. He had no memories of ever coming here, but there is no way he would be there without knowing he is in Gallia. 

He has yet to forget. Because the event which caused his amnesia has yet to happen. And the woman in front of you is the key character of this event.

"So... This is the young lady you've requested me to take care of."

She smiles warmly at you, watching you with the beautiful clear blue eyes she passed down to her daughter. She slightly bows her head, some strands of her blue hair falling over her forehead. The same blue hair she passed down to her son.

"It is a pleasure to meet you. From now on, I'll be your healer. I am..." 

You already know who she is, and what her fate will be. This whole time, you believed her to be already dead... You were wrong. Here she is, right in front of you. 

The wife of Greil and mother of Ike and Mist, and a former priestress of a temple in Daein. She became friend with the late heron princess Lilia, who entrusted her with an ancient and dangerous artifact and a promise.

A promise she will never fulfill, for she will die by the hand of the man she loves after he went berserk touching the said artifact. 

She is...

"Elena."

"Lady [Name] ?!"

For once, you're grateful to your failing health for giving you an excuse as to why you look like you're on the verge of dying. You're grateful as well for Caineghis catching you before you fall. 

"My head... It hurts..."

You don't know whether it is because of the shock and panic you've felt upon seeing Elena or merely accumulated fatigue, but you're in much worse state than you thought to be. Your nose is bleeding again, and you feel beads of blood falling down your earlobes as well. Your vision is blurry and you feel dizzy, but you can still see Elena and Giffca rushing toward you. Fortunately, she's carrying a staff, so maybe you will not pass out this time.

"We have to lay her on a bed ! I also need warm water !"

"Giffca, do everything she tells you. I shall call for more healers to assist you."

"Yes, your Majesty."

You feel someone starting carrying you (most likely Giffca) and being taken away. Your headache and dizziness get even stronger than before, and you slowly but surely lose consciousness. 

You should've really shut it when you said this day could never go wrong.

"Ah, you're awake. Careful now, you need to rest so don't move too much."

It is the third time you wake up laying on a bed with someone at your bedside, who this time happens to be Elena. You didn't expect your body to feel this light, though. Healing staffs sure are great. 

"... I am... feeling much better now. Thank you..."

You can't even look at her in the eyes saying this. Just like with Lotz, you know she will soon die, and her end will come even sooner. She died when Ike and Mist were toddlers, so you hardly doubt she has more than a year left to live. You're basically discussing with a soon-to-be... dead corpse.

You feel your throat tighten thinking this.

Are you just this fucking heartless toward anyone that isn't a playable character to think this way ? To think of someone willing to help you as already dead because this is what happens in the plot ? You know the future, why can't you just change it ?

'Because it's impossible, and you know that.'

The voice in your head- the voice of your reason sounds awfully cruel, but it's not lying.

You cannot hope to fight Greil, especially in his berserk state, and survive. Your only trump card is your ability to create ice, but you don't even know how to use it and the side effects would render you useless, which could be fatal if Greil somehow escapes from the ice (very unlikely though because dragons struggle to break the ice when you're near it) or if an assassin from Daein shows up and takes advantage of the situation to take the medallion.

The medallion. It's all its fault. Stupid medallion. If not for it, there would've been no war and no one would've died. Maybe you should steal it from Elena and bring it to your world... If you somehow succeed to maintain your sanity touching it and finding a way back to your world. And Elena would probably never let go of the medallion, and would never agree to let you touch it.

It's all hopeless after all... Elena will die because you're useless and can't do a thing.

"Are you alright ? You've been awfully silent."

"I... still feel a bit dizzy. I'm sorry..."

"Why are you apologizing for ? You are like this because you fought for your friend. There's nothing you should be ashamed of."

Actually there is a lot of things you should be ashamed of, but you cannot respond seeing Elena's beautiful smile. She must see in you a child, not so different from her own children, sick and in needs of care. You must awaken in her that maternal instinct every mother has, that's why she is this kind to you.

If she knew the truth, she definitely would not smile at you this way or even want to be near you. 

"I... have brought my friend a lot of trouble though. And also worried him a lot..."

"Your situation wasn't an easy one, I've heard. Yet you didn't give up and helped a laguz you had never met before and brought him to safety. Don't be so hard on yourself, you've done great."

"Until I accidentally freeze a good part of the border between Begnion and Goldoa..."

Saying this you notice Elena's smile is replaced by a serious expression. She starts questioning you about your weird power, and you can only mutter confused answers.

"Those powers... It was the first time you've used them, wasn't it ?

"U-Um... Yes..."

"Did you feel any kind of particular sensation using them ?"

"Erm, aside from the pain...I-I did feel kind of... cold, I suppose."

"Have you used them ever since ?"

"No, I didn't... Since I don't how to control them, I thought it was way too dangerous to try."

"I see."

She nods slowly, memorizing your words. She remembers you of a doctor taking note of their patient's symptoms to deduce the sickness. Well, she is a doctor, just not the same as the ones in your world. 

"I think I know what is the problem... It is not so different from when mages or healers cast a spell for the first time."

"Eh ?"

"In order to cast a spell, we use the inner source of magic within us. However, magic is something we humans cannot use the same way than one uses strength. Which is why one needs training, and even then it is exhausting for our bodies are not naturally adapted to magic. To give you an exemple, I nearly passed out the first time I've cast a healing spell because I poured way too much magic in it."

You nod, somehow getting what she means. But since magic doesn't exist in your world, it is still a concept you've yet to totally comprehend. Your power might be categorized as magic, but it doesn't work in the same way, so it's even harder to get to learn how to use it. Elena must've felt your worries, because she continues with her explanations. 

"Your power are... unique, to say the least. Mages normally need tomes or staves to cast their spells, or at least some sort of medium in order to use magic through it. You don't need any of them... Which must explain why the burden on your body is much greater. Because there are no medium, your body takes all the damages."

"So... I must train my body... is what you mean ?"

"That's it. You're a smart girl."

She pats your head with a fond smile, stroking your hair gently. You blink, surprised by the sudden gesture and she takes off her hand, realizing what she's doing and apologizing. 

"Ah, I apologize ! It was rather rash of me..."

"N-No... No, it's okay. I... I'm fine."

You can't lie and say it didn't feel great. You're not small enough anymore to get headpats everytime you do something great... But you've always loved the gestures of affection your mother would show you.

Your mother. You miss her. Your father as well. Your shitty little brother too.

Great. You went from being ecstatic meeting some of your favorite characters to depressing about the future, about all those who will perish, and about your uselessness. As if your guilt of killing people and putting Reyson in danger multiple times wasn't enough. 

You need therapy.

"Lady [Name] ?"

"My bad, I'm dozing off..."

Reyson is right when he says you're a terrible liar. Elena watches you with worry, noticing your poor mental state. Are you really this easy to read ?

"... You miss your mother ?"

"... Yes, I do."

You see her now watches you with compassion, something you once again don't deserve. Your parents aren't deceased like she must think now, but you can't tell her they're not in Tellius so you have no choice but to hide the truth again.

"You'll be fine now. You are not alone anymore."

She's right. You're not alone, you've never been alone. Sometimes you wonder if you truly deserve this, if you truly deserve the people around you. You try smiling as genuinely as possible to reassure her, not wishing to continue this sad conversation. 

"Yes, you're right... Eheh, watching me sulking this much must be so demoralizing."

"It's fine not to be okay... You are a child that went through a lot, to feel this way is perfectly normal. This is why I will help you to the best of my abilities. Both physically and emotionally. I know ! Why not meeting with my family ?"

"Eh ? What ?"

You have yet to realize what is happening to you when Elena takes your hands in hers and helps you getting up. At that moment she looks like Mist, excited and lively and ready to do things the way she wants to make you smile. 

"You're 12 years old, aren't you ?"

"I-I'm 13..."

'Actually, I'm [y/a ] but you will probably not believe me..."

"That makes you 3 years older than Ike ! Well he's still 9, but his birthday will come in a few weeks ! You could become his and Mist's older sister !"

"W-What ? B-But I'm a stranger-"

"Don't be shy, I'm sure they will love you !"

You try protesting again but give up and accept your fate. Now you know who Ike and Mist got their stubborness from.

"It's Mom and the fairy !"

You had expected the children would've at least been a little upset at you for running away all of a sudden. But instead Mist is pointing at you with shining eyes and calling you a fairy. Elena glances at you with a mischievous smile, amused that you've hidden her your meeting with Ike and Mist and more than pleased to see she was right.

"Oh my, a fairy ? It seems you've hidden this from me~"

"I-I met them by chance... I had no idea they were your children- And I don't really understand the 'fairy' thing'."

"It's because you're pretty like one ! Right Ike ?"

The said boy, who had been silent and staring at you, blushes hearing this and glares at his sister, denying whatever she is implying.

"Stop it, Mist !! I said you're wrong !!"

"Liar~~ Mom ! Ike is- MMMGHH !!!!"

Before she finishes, Ike hides her mouth with his hands and silences her. What on earth happened between those two when you went away ? Elena does look like she has an idea unlike you, but seeing her face she will never tell you.

"Come on, Ike. Don't be mean to Mist, don't forget she is your baby sister. Your father wouldn't be happy to see you treat her like this."

Ike's face pales at the mention of his father and lets go of his sister, and you barely hold back a chuckle. You can already imagine little Ike being scolded by his father while Mist is hiding behind Greil and sticking her tongue out. Elena claps her hands before introducing you to them and once again, you end up embarrassed and not knowing what to say.

"Now that you are finished with your quarrel, I can introduce to Miss Fairy ! Her name is [Name], and from now on you'll often see her because I'll come to help her healing from her sickness."

"Erm... H-Hi..."

The angry pout on Mist's face meant for her older sibling is soon replaced by a worried gaze, a reaction shared with Ike. You feel your heart melt watching them worry over nothing, worry for you hearing you need care. 

"Miss Fairy... You are sick ?"

"So you were really not feeling good when I found you in the grass...?"

"N-No, no no ! It-It's nothing serious, thanks to your mother's help I'm already feeling better ! So don't be feeling down and show me your smiles !"

You nearly goes blind from how bright their smiles are, and Elena's own smile doesn't help. She seems so overjoyed she looks even more like her children, taking their small hands in hers.

"Eheh, [Name] will come visiting us ! She can't today, but soon you will get to play with her ! That way you can show her how great you are with a wooden sword, Ike~"

"MOM !"

This time you can't hold back and start laughing at Ike's tomato red face, followed by Mist and Elena. The three of them wave you goodbye and leave, holding each others' hands. You watch, as they walk among the bright flowers with even brighter smiles. And they look so happy.

And soon, this happiness will be unfairly taken away. 

You fall on your knees, using the closest wall as support. You don't know what to do. You shouldn't get attached, you know you shouldn't. But you just couldn't help yourself but fall for this lovely woman that is Elena. You've barely met her and yet, she has shown you nothing but kindness and compassion, despite not even knowing you. 

Despite your inability to do anything to change her fate. 

"So she's already gone ? You look less pale then before." 

You turn your head around to see Ranulf approaching and sitting down along with you with his usual friendly and easygoing smile. It would almost make you feel better...

Almost.

"Yes... She's an amazing healer. And so kind. No wonder his Majesty considers her a friend."

"I've never personally met her but... You're right. She must be an amazing beorc. Talking about beorc, this healer happens to reside in a village bordering Crimea where beorc who don't mind being among laguz live. His Majesty thinks it might be a good idea for you to go there from time to time, so you can receive treatments and meet other beorc."

"... You might be right. And this way Elena won't have to go back and forth between the castle and her home."

"I said you looked less pale then before... But you look down. Did something happen ?"

'Too many things happened.'

"... Nothing. I am only worried about the future."

"You know children shouldn't be worrying over something like that- Ouch !"

You punch his shoulder lightly and Ranulf winces, though you know it probably didn't hurt him at all. You're just done with people thinking you're a baby, mentally speaking you're an adult and you're much more mature than most of those you've met so far !

... Sometimes.

"I'm not a child. And I just have a bad feeling."

"Then try doing something about it."

"About what ?"

"About the future and whatever fate awaits you."

For a second, you turn silent. Doing something about fate- changing fate... How you wish it could be this easy to accomplish. 

"... I thought 'fate' was something only the Goddess could change."

"I don't really think so. I mean, if we don't try, of course we can't change it. If you have a bad feeling... Just do something about it. So far, you've done things many would've thought impossible."

You can't tell whether he's telling you this in an attempt to cheer you up... Or if he's being serious. You know he's not the type to tell needless things... So the second option sounds the most likely. 

"... I can't do a thing if I don't at least try, huh..."

You can't save anyone if at least, you don't try. You can't save Elena if at least, you don't try. There must be something, something even someone as powerless as you can do to help.

There might be something you can do, something to save Elena from death. There must be a way.

So you just ignore it. The voice in the back of your mind telling you that it is all useless. 

Chapter Text

"Your Majesty... Are there any place in the castle where I can find books ?"

Caineghis watches you surprised, not expecting your question when you were supposed to be here just to discuss about your visit in the beorc village. Giffca is there as well but once again, he's just being Caineghis's shadow. The King still answers you though, but questions you about your reasons.

"Hmm ? Indeed, there is a library in the castle, and I will of course give you access to it. Is there anything you wish to know about ?"

"I... would like to know if there are any case like mine."

This isn't a lie. You want to know if there existed people like you, who didn't come from Tellius. Or any information about the world outside Tellius, or about something foreign to this world that exists or has existed here. You need to get as many information as possible to go back to your world, and the only thing you can do to find them is read as many books as you can.

"I see, you wish to know if there existed any person with powers like yours... I understand. I will also request Crimea to let us have access to some of their books. But I cannot promise you will find anything."

You frown and nod, knowing that he is right and you may not find what you are looking for. But you still have to try, regardless of how thin your chances are to find any valuable information. 

"Regarding the village... I will have Ranulf and some of his soldiers accompany you there. We haven't had any attacks recently, but it takes half a day to go there and we can never be too careful. I've promised Prince Reyson to protect you after all."

"Thank you so very much, your Majesty..."

"Ahah. I don't think we've ever had a discussion without you thanking me over and over. There is no need to show this much gratitude toward me. Instead, I should be the one thanking you... For showing the bird tribes that beorc and laguz could help each other."

"Aaah... I-I don't think I deserve this much praise... I mean, Reyson and the hawks are still quite... suspicious of beorc."

"Believe me, they would've never accepted to help or even meet a beorc prior to meeting you. Myself, I couldn't trust beorc... Until meeting beorc that changed my mind. The Serenes Massacre was a terrible tragedy, and I can only understand and sympathize with Prince Reyson and the bird tribes' rage and sorrow... However, I wish from the bottom of my heart they may one day come to forgive and work alongside beorc. That is my and King Ramon's dearest wish. You have made the first step to make this wish come true, and I am grateful to you for this."

You feel flustered hearing him thanking you, but you know you don't deserve these praises. Regardless of your actions, Caineghis's wish will be soon granted : Ike will unit the laguz tribes and the beorc in the future. You are not needed in the future, no matter what others may think or say : the best thing you can do is not influencing the plot the wrong way. 

Saving Elena will indeed completely change the whole plot, but in the right way though : Greil won't scarify himself in order not to wield a sword ever again and making himself more vulnerable in case he loses control, inevitably causing his defeat against the Black Knight. Elena will be able to help as a healer, but also help regarding beorc-laguz relationships thanks to her kind heart and her friendship with Lilia.

And more importantly, Ike and Mist will still have both of their parents. If you can do that, if you can save Elena from death, then it'll be more than enough.

It'll be more than enough for you not to feel completely useless, not to let this endless guilt swallow you whole. 

"I believe... That your wish will come true in the future, your Majesty. There is no doubt it will."

"Hmm ?"

You smile, and he merely stares at you puzzled. You should learn to stop sounding so oddly mature for your supposed age. Or else people might start thinking you're older than you appear to be, or that you're some sort of prophet who can see the future. Either way, it would just bring you troubles.

"I pray the Goddess you are right... But, I digress. You should go now, this conversation can wait. Your health comes first and foremost. If you wish to stay in the village for a while, please tell me. I will have some soldiers watch over you there."

"I will. Have a good day, your Majesty."

You bow your head respectfully and leave the room. Truly, you couldn't be happier and more grateful that Caineghis is such a kind person. Now, all that is left for you is to start working, both to find a way back to your world and to save Elena.

This will be your last duty in Tellius, the last task you will accomplish before fading away like you've never existed in this world like you should always have.

"So you are ready to go ?"

"Oh, good morning Ranulf."

You raise your head to see Ranulf walking in your direction, followed by two laguz. Two laguz you recognize very well. One is a tall and bulky, pale blue haired male tiger laguz and the other a short and slim, orange haired beautiful female cat laguz. Yet both of their personalities are in stark contrast to their appearances.

The intimidating laguz is actually a kind, innocent and golden hearted man, and one of the friendliest character of the game who will come to help Ike along with his superior in his journey to defeat Ashnard. 

The gentle giant, Mordecai. 

And his superior, the beautiful female laguz is in reality one of the harshest character of the game, and one of the laguz who hates beorcs the most. But upon meeting the protagonist, she will slowly change her mind.

Gallia's valkyrie, Lethe.

You know you shouldn't smile, especially since Lethe is giving you a disgusted look akin to the ones Reyson used to give you at first. But you can't help it, especially since you love them both : Modercai is the sweetest giant you've ever seen with a teddy bear's heart, and while Lethe is harsh, she is also cool and loyal and can be a tsundere sometimes. 

So yeah, you're so happy you can't stop yourself from smiling. 

Ranulf, noticing as well Lethe's glares sends you an apologetic gaze and the woman a disapproving glare before introducing you to them.

"Good morning, Lady [Name]. As the King ordered, I will escort you along with two of my subordinates. Here is Mordecai and- Come on, she's under the King's protection, try not glaring at her- Lethe."

She merely turns her head around in disgust, not even caring about whatever expression is on your face, which is a small smile. Ranulf shoots you a surprised look when he notices you don't feel one bit hurt. Mordecai hasn't though, and reprimands his superior for her cold behavior.

"Lethe. Don't be mean. The King told us to be kind."

"Hmph. I only follow orders. I have no intention of trusting a human. Now, we have to leave for that village, don't we ? Let's hurry up already."

She turns around and walks away before anyone can stop her. Ranulf shakes his head and sighs, and you pat his back to reassure him. Being with Reyson taught you that you have to be extremely patient with unfriendly people in order to gain their trust, so you absolutely don't mind unlike the two laguz men. 

"I'm sorry... Lethe is being harsh again."

"No no, it's alright. I absolutely don't mind."

"I guess you must be really used to face animosity... Still, you shouldn't just accept it all with a smile. You don't deserve to be hated just for what you are."

"I know. But I also feel that Lethe is actually very kind. She just needs time."

"I hope you are right and she will warm up to you. Then again, Prince Reyson himself considers you a friend, so I guess it's not impossible."

'Well I nearly lost my life to gain his trust, hope I won't have to repeat this with Lethe. I wanna stay alive at least long enough to get to see adult Ike.'

You decide to change the subject and turn toward Mordecai, approaching and facing him before taking his giant hand into your much tinier one for a handshake.

"I think I need to make the introduction myself. I am [Name], a beorc. I hope we can be friends from now on, Mordecai."

"... Ranulf is right. [Name] is very nice. From now on, Mordecai and [Name] are friends."

Oh you're going to scream from how pure he is. 

Seriously, how can people hate this huge teddy bear in disguise ? Most beorc really suck, you guess. Well aside from the main characters that is. Which is why you'll kick the ass of anyone who dares insult laguz out of racism.

Except maybe Soren. He is the only one who's actually got a good reason to dislike laguz. Doesn't mean you accept it though, but it's not like you'll ever meet him and have a discussion about it. 

Right ?

"Are you okay, [Name] ?"

"I'm fine, Mordecai. Thanks for worrying."

"Do all humans have such pathetic stamina ? With our current speed, we will reach the village by tomorrow."

"Lethe, stop this ! This is bad."

You merely smile awkwardly at Lethe's insults while Mordecai keeps on repeating she needs to be polite. She doesn't seem to care one bit about her subordinate's reprimands, but she does look surprised you've not reacted once to her words.

Maybe patience and kindness are the way to win a laguz's heart. That, or complete naivety and absolute ignorance like in Ike's case.

"I'm sorry for slowing you both down... I know I'm not walking very fast. But I'll do my best."

"Your best will not help us at all. Just carry her already, Mordecai. We can get there in a few hours running in our beast forms."

Mordecai frowns but does comply, and you don't feel like saying anything either. So you just watch silently as their bodies morph into a different form. It's just like cutscenes of the game, smooth and quick. Their human features slowly fade and are replaced by animalistic ones, their hands become claws and their mouths become fangs.

In a way seeing this, you understand why some people would get scared. They are powerful, in the truest sense of the word. They do not need harsh training, tools or whatsoever for them to be strong. They are merely born naturally gifted with such strength. But that gift doesn't mean they are merely beasts. 

They are people, as much as beorc are. A shame men can be trash and start hating each other over appearances and origins, regardless of the world.

Mordecai makes a small movement of the head to tell you to get on his back. You gulp but nod, not really knowing what to expect from this ride. Reyson and co had carried you to Gallia without needing to transform, so it'll be the first you're carried by a transformed laguz. 

Well, time to be a bit brave you guess.

"That was amazing !"

"What are you talking ?"

For once Lethe's gaze is not filled with hatred or disgust, it has to be with confusion from your weird reaction. Then again, the ride was amazing : it was like a motorbike ride, but much safer. You wouldn't mind doing it again, if Mordecai is willing to let you on his back again that is.

"Ah, my bad... I just thought it was a nice ride. Erm, anyway... I hope it wasn't too bothersome for you to carry me, Mordecai."

"It's fine. [Name] is very light."

"Did you really think Mordecai would struggle to carry a tiny human such as yourself ?"

"Ah, no no... It's just that I was making sure everything was fine. It's already nice of you both to accompany me, so I don't want to be annoying you or something."

"... Hmph."

Lethe doesn't say anything else, but you can say she's not upset. Looks like your efforts are starting to bear their fruits. 

"We're merely following orders. We did not accompany you because we wanted to."

Nevermind, it will take longer for her to accept you. You decide not to continue this conversation and instead your eyes fall on a village not too far from where you are standing. The village where Ike used to live with his family in Gallia...

Until those peaceful days came to an end.

You gulp. You know this village will soon be destroyed. Not by Daein's assassins, but by one of its inhabitant. Nearly everyone will be killed... Unless you find a way to avoid it. Their lives now lie on your shoulders, and you can ask no one for help.

Except the voice, who has once again gone silent and doesn't even answer you when you call. Great, you're absolutely not feeling under pressure. You notice the two laguz with you sit down, and you frown.

"Eh ? You're not going with me ?"

"There is no need. You're a beorc in a village of beorc, no one will mind you. That, and I don't want to go there."

"If you need help, Mordecai will come. Laguz have a good hearing."

"O-Oh, I see... Do you want me to bring you anything when I come back ? Like food or water ?"

Lethe merely looks away, while her partner asks for some bread and meat, and thank you for your kindness. You wave goodbye before heading toward the village, and it takes you at least 10 minutes to reach the nearest house. You can no longer see the two laguz warrior from where you are, but thankfully Elena and Mist have been waiting for you. Upon seeing you arriving, they both smile so brightly you nearly go blind.

A shame sunglasses don't exist in this world. 

"Ah ! [Name], here you are ! We've been waiting for you !"

"Goodmorning Miss Fairy ! You're very pretty today !"

"Goodmorning Elena, Mist... Thank you very much Mist, you're very cute as well- But please call me by my name."

"Okay ! Mom, let me show [Name] our home ! Please !"

"Of course, we will show her around. Is it fine, [Name] ?"

"I'm in your care."

And this how you end up visiting the village accompanied by the two purest beorc on Tellius. The three of you happily chat together- well it's mostly Elena and Mist doing the conversation and you simply being overwhelmed by their cheerfulness- as you walk around the area. The place is small but there are quite a lot of people in the streets, too busy in their everyday activities to even mind someone they have never seen before like you. 

Something you actually like, since you want to be at peace. Thankfully they weren't told that a beorc under the protection of Gallia's King would come here, which explains why Mordecai and Lethe didn't come. The three of you would've immediately caught everyone's attention, and people would've been too curious about you. 

"Ah, now that I think about it... Where is Ike ? I thought he'd be with you."

Mother and daughter look at each other and chuckle, as if knowing something you didn't. Did Ike say something about you ? Why are they looking your grandmother and great grandmother when they saw you next to a boy ?

"He's training with his father. He looks toward seeing you very much !"

"Yes ! He's so excited he thought it would be great if he could show you his new moves !"

Ooooh, that's so sweet. He's trying to impress you, surely to cheer you up since his mother told him and his sister you were sick. That being said, at his current age and knowing how strong Greil is at the moment, he's most likely going to lose in a very embarrassing way. And you're proved right upon arriving at their home.

"Ouch !"

You arrive at the moment poor boy would've preferred being alone as he falls miserably on his butt, wooden sword dropped down on the ground. He already looks disappointed by his loss, and seeing you along with his mother and snickering sister only make things worse as he blushes.

"Waaaaaah ! Why are you here ?!"

"Ike, I told you [Name] would come."

"Poor Ike lost against Dad in front of [Name]~"

"BE QUIET MIST, I DIDN'T DO IT TO IMPRESS ANYONE ! I WANT TO BE STRONG LIKE DAD, THAT'S ALL !"

"Ike, what did I say about screaming at your little sister ?"

The poor boy merely lowers his head and pouts. You can't help but feel slightly guilty since you feel like you are the reason why he was training with Greil, so you get on your knees and cup his face in your hands and wipe the dirt on his face away all the while smiling. 

"It's fine. I'm sure you fought very well. You're already very strong and you'll get stronger. So don't give up, alright ?"

"R-Really ? You think that ?"

"I do."

You didn't know you needed to see tiny Ike's blushing face until you see it. This level of cuteness is enough to make you forget every single problem in your life, including his mother's potential death. For once, you actually feel like thanking the deity that brought you here just for this sweet little moment. 

"I don't think you should compliment him too much, or he might get too arrogant and think he can actually win."

A moment which is interrupted by the father. You let go of Ike's cheeks and get up, to face a gigantic and muscular man. A man with short, messy hazel hair just like his daughter, and sharp blue eyes like his son.

One of the strongest, if not the strongest swordman on Tellius who was once known as Gawain the Divine Knight, Rider of Daein. He abandoned his country, title and name in order to protect his beloved entrusted with a dangerous duty, and founded a group of mercenaries as he took a new name and started a new life.

But that life would come to an end, meeting tragedies upon tragedies until finally losing his life by the hand of his former disciple.

The commander of the Greil Mercenaries and father of Ike and Mist, Greil.

He's damn huge. Well, perhaps not as much as Tibarn, but still. He's impressive, but you don't feel afraid or anything despite knowing the fact he could easily kill you. You know he is a great man, a good father and husband, who definitely did not deserve anything he went through. He carried with him the guilt of his wife and friends' death by his hand, punished himself by cutting his right arm to never wield a sword again, and even hired a man for the sole purpose of killing him shall he lose control again.

You want to help him as well. You want to save him as well. And the only way you can do so is to save Elena. You will have to do anything in your power to accomplish this. You bow down, introducing yourself with a polite smile.

"I am [Name]. I am under the care of your wife by King Caineghis's request. From now on, I'll be under your care. It is nice to meet you."

"So, you are [Name]... I am Greil, a mercenary. Elena and his Majesty already informed about you. I hope we will get along."

He takes your hand in his for handshake, and you nearly lose your arm from how strong it is. Can't he just hold back a bit ? You're just a tiny girl compared to him ! But you don't dare saying something since you know he's not doing it on purpose, and also because Elena is happily smiling and you don't want her to lose that smile. 

"I'm so happy you get along with everyone, [Name] ! Now then, I think we should start with your treatment. I already see what I can do to help you."

"Then I guess you won't need me. Ike, since you lost to me you'll be helping me with getting woods."

"I would've had to do it even if I had won, though..."

"If you have enough energy left to answer back, then you have enough strength to carry with me. Elena, Mist, we'll be back in a few hours. Take good care of our guest."

Ike sighs in defeat but complies, getting up to  accompany his father. You pat his shoulder in sympathy, and he smiles a bit before leaving. Ah, poor boy. If he knew how strong he will become one day... You'll cheer him up once he comes back.

"We should go as well. We won't fix your heath issues if we don't work. Mist, care to come with us ? It is such a beautiful day today, we should go on a walk and stay in a pretty place."

"Yay~ We're going to the lake~"

'A lake ? Oh, it must be that lake.'

Path of Radiance was one of the first game with cutscenes, and in the first one in which appears Ike, Greil, Mist and Elena, there is a lake where Mist picks flowers while her older brother is passed out. So they used to go there even when Elena was still alive...

You hope they will continue to go there all together for a long time. 

"Look, look ! It's there ! It's pretty, right ?"

"Yes... It truly is beautiful, Mist."

It really is. It might look like any ordinary place, a small flower field with a view on a look, but this is something you are not used to. Because in your world where humanity chose profits over the earth they live on, this kind of view is slowly becoming rarer. So yeah, to you it is amazing.

"Let's all sit down and enjoy the view, alright ?"

Elena, staff in hands, sit down in the grass and you follow her example as Mist runs freely in the green. It is quite weird, but you feel like you've been adopted within barely a day by Elena and the children. At this rate, you wouldn't be surprised if Greil does the same.

"I thought it'd be a good idea to work here rather than in another place. I noticed you are quite prone to feel down, because of what you went through... So I wanted you to cheer up and have some fun."

You feel your heart squeeze. So she had noticed as well. You guess you really suck at acting like you are fine, but then you also know Elena is a very empathetic and caring woman. You feel like hugging her at the moment for helping you, and you want to save her even more for the kindness she shows you. 

"Thank you... I love this place."

"I'm happy to hear that. Now, it's time to get to work ! We first need you to use your magic."

"Erm... I still don't know how to do-"

"It's fine, let's just try !"

"O-Okay..."

You wish you shared her optimism. You seriously have no idea how to use your powers- Stupid voice, why is it not answering you when you need it ? So you sigh, look at your hands and close your eyes, focusing on Elena's voice. 

"Gather all your energy on your hands... This feeling of freezing cold you've felt this day, remember it. Let it spread in your body... Then let it leave your being."

"Let the cold... Leave my body..."

You suddenly feel your hands turning stone cold, and then you hear the same sound as this day, but much less terrifying. And when you open your eyes, you see a small chunk of ice in your hands. It's nothing compared to the first time but... You did it. You actually did it.

"I... I did it ! Look Elena, I did it !"

"Yes, you did ! I'm very proud !"

You feel like a small child who just succeeded their first feat in life, and it feels absolutely amazing. And you're not bleeding ! Though you do feel weird... Elena takes notice as well and hold your shoulder. 

"Are you alright ? Your whole body is ice cold..."

"I... I feel weird... I-It doesn't hurt but... My head feels dizzy..."

"As I thought... When you use your power, your entire body is affected by the cold you produce. Mainly your insides, I would say. But since a living body cannot withstand a too harsh cold, it will try warming itself up."

"... So the reason I'm bleeding is because of the sudden thermic shock ?"

"Most likely. But it seems that the gravity of the wounds depend on the amount of ice you create. Meaning that just a bit won't do much damages. Let's continue slowly. If you feel like you've reached your limits, stop at once."

"Alright... I'll try doing a bit more..."

You take another deep breath and concentrate. Now that you got the gist of it, all you need is focusing on creating a greater amount. The sensation of freezing spreads from your hands to your forearms, the dizziness becomes pain. It's nothing unbearable, but it's tiring.

"[Name], it's enough."

She doesn't even need to tell you as you let hands your hands fall on your sides. You feel a single droplet of blood roll down, but you feel happy you you did it. The flowers and grass are frozen, but thankfully it didn't go too far. 

"Eh eh... For someone who's a novice at using magic, I think I did great..."

"You did, but now you have to rest."

The smile on her lips gone, replaced by the same kind concerned expression your mother and your father would make everytime you got hurt falling as a child. The light of the staff is warm and soothing, slowly erasing the pain and the fatigue. A gentle power, just like the person using it. 

Just why is fate cruel enough to take away this angel in disguise ? To have her die by the hand of her beloved husband ? All because of a crazed man ready to destroy the world to create one fitting his own twisted wishes. And all because of a cursed medallion. 

An old looking, seemingly harmless bronze medallion hanging on her neck.

A waze of uneasiness spreads in your body upon setting your eyes on it. You don't know if it's the knowledge of the true nature of that thing, or merely the medallion's effect on people around it, but you feel unrest. There is a strange sound ringing in your ears.

A sound akin to the wind during a storm. But there is no wind at all, it's all in your head. 

You hope it is.

"[Name] ?"

Oh shoot, you spaced out again.

"Ah, my bad..."

"Maybe I pushed you far too much-"

"No no... But how am I supposed... To make the ice go ?"

"You should focus on recovering, we can care of this later."

"Yes, but... I don't want the flowers to stay frozen, if only I could just crush the ice-"

The both of you definitely did not expect that upon squeezing your fist to image your wish, the ice would disappear. You're bewildered. Elena is amazed. And you don't feel one bit worse than before.

Is it you or your blessing is starting to actually look like one ?

"You did it !!"

"I did ?! And I'm not bleeding more ?!"

"Yes you did !!"

Just like two old friends, both of you join your hands to celebrate your success. You may feel not so good physically right now, but mentally you didn't feel this great since a while. If you keep on working this way, then using your powers may no longer be a double-edged sword that may get you or anyone hurt.

And stopping Greil in his berserk state and saving Elena may become possible. 

It can work. You can do it. You will need to work until you pass out everyday to fully control your powers since you have no idea when exactly will Elena die, but it's nothing compared to the lives you will save if you succeed. 

It will work. It has to. 

"Mom~~~~~~~ [Name]~~~~~!"

Upon hearing Mist's excited voice, you and Elena raise your heads to see her rushing in your direction, holding something in her small hands. She's huffing and puffing so much she can't even talk properly when she arrives in front of you.

"Look...! L-Look... What I...!"

"Mist darling, breath ! Take your time, alright ?"

"Calm down and tell us what you have in your hands."

She takes a deep breath before showing with a joyful smile flower crowns she has been working on while you and Elena were working, putting one of them over her head while handing you the two left.

"I saw pretty flowers so I made flower crowns out of it ! You looked like you were working really hard so I made these for you !"

She places one of the flower crown on her mother's head and the other on yours. Her smile grows bigger and she claps her hands, proud of the results of her work. And she can be proud : the crown is beautifully made, and you're not saying that just because you love Mist, or because you can't make one like hers even if you tried your hardest. 

"It's so pretty... Thank you, Mist. I love this gift."

"Mom and [Name] look so pretty~ You both look like fairies !"

"Eheheh, thank you Mist. But I think [Name] is much prettier than I am !"

"T-That is not true ! You are much more beautiful, Elena !"

"Teehee, so you think I'm beautiful ?"

"O-Of course I do !"

"Awwww, you are such a sweet child, [Name]. Thank you~"

You feel like digging your head in a hole to hide your flushed face. Is it a universal fact that all mothers have this ability to embarrass people so easily ? You hide your face in your hands, and you hear both Elena and her daughter laughing.

Oh, you're falling for them even more.

After sweet moments spent with Elena and Mist, you finally go back to the formers' home to tell Ike and Greil goodbye before returning to Gallia's castle. The two are already there when you arrive, carrying the wood and cutting it.

While Greil is doing his work with incredible ease expected from someone as strong as him, his son is struggling with his axe despite only taking care of the small wooden logs. And yet he doesn't give up and perserves. Even small, Ike is still Ike. 

The father is the first to notice you arriving, stopping himself as he puts down his axe and smiles. Elena approaches him, flower crown still on her head as she smiles back. 

"Ah, you're back. It looks like you were having a good time."

"We were ! [Name] was able to use her ice magic and Mist made us those beautiful flower crowns ! I am beautiful, right ?"

"You are always beautiful, Elena."

You hear the siblings let out a small 'beurk !' and turning their heads around upon seeing their parents kiss and being lovey-dovey. You on the other hand feel touched by this moment of pure love and feel like crying a bit. They truly love each other more than anything else in this world. That's why Greil could never forgive himself for killing his beloved. 

That's why he carried alone for years the responsibility of Elena's death. That's why he could never love another woman like he loves his wife, something Titania understood very well. And something that now, you understand as well. You want to protect them. You will protect them. So they may be able to enjoy their happiness for a long time,  along with their children. 

Talking about the children, you finally notice that your favorite blue head is staring at you. Ike blushes and turns around upon noticing you stare back, and you chuckle before approaching him, pointing at the flowers on your hair.

"Is anything the matter, Ike ? Is it because of the flower crown ?"

"Ah, no- I... I think it really suits you..."

"Hih hih, you're very kind, Ike. Since the day we met, you've always been kind to me. It makes me very happy."

"You're always happy though... You know, I felt like you already knew me when you looked at me."

"Eh ?"

'Oh shit ! He noticed !!!'

Isn't he supposed to be awfully oblivious like any children his age ?!! Well, it's definitely your fault since you had just woken up and couldn't hide properly your shock upon seeing him. Now what are you supposed to tell him ?! Wait, you can just tell him something like that.

"Ah... I see. I couldn't help but be remembered of my younger brother when I first saw you. Actually at first, I even thought I was dreaming. But it turns out none of this was a dream."

Yes. None of this is a dream.

Ike thankfully believes your words, but he seems to be puzzled by something. Regardless of what it is he doesn't tell you, and instead changes the subject.

"... Are you going to leave already ?"

"Yes, I'm going back to where I'm staying. But I'll be back soon, don't worry."

"That's great ! By the way..."

"Ike's birthday is coming soon, so why not spend it all together ?"

"MIST !!!!!"

You jump upon suddenly hearing Mist and see her older brother go from excited to furious as he goes and starts pursuing his sister. Leaving you on your own to fully understand what is going on.

A birthday. It's soon going to be Ike's birthday. 

Oh no. You're going to have a huge problem. 

"Ah, here she is- Why is she running this fast ?"

It had barely been a day since you left Phoenicis for Gallia, but Reyson felt like he had to go visit you. Strangely enough, Tibarn, Janaff and Ulki felt the same way. Instinct, he guesses. And that instinct definitely did not fool them seeing you rushing toward him as if your life was on the line.

"Reysoooooooooon !!! Reyson, I need your heeeeeelp !!!"

Is the situation really this serious ? He doesn't even have the time to ask or utter a word that you catch his shoulders and ask the most unexpected question he could've thought of.

"What kind of birthday gift should I offer to a 10 years old boy ?!!"

Ah, he nearly forgot. You're a stupid beorc.

Chapter Text

"So does any of you know what kind of gift I can give to a 10 years old boy ?!"

The silence of your friends is enough of an answer for you, and you burry your face in your hands to muffle your sobs. Reyson looks so done with you he must want to leave already, but you seriously need help. Ike's birthday is coming soon, and you have absolutely no damn idea what to offer.

If you were in your world, you wouldn't have had any problems : you're used to find gift for your brother's birthday, buying someting that will please a 10 years old boy shouldn't be an issue. But you're not in your world. You've got no money (well you can always ask Tibarn or Caineghis but you'd feel kinda bad about it), and you're pretty sure your average toy wouldn't make Ike happy. Not only that, but toys in this era must be awfully expensive.

So yeah, you've got a huge problem.

"I can't believe you're panicking over something like this..."

"Reyson, you know how I am, get over it and help me !!!"

"Why is it so important anyway ? You've met this boy just a day ago. And he is a kid, you don't need to bother yourself about a gift."

"Yes, but he's so kind and sweet to me, and he's adorable ! And you're not 10 years old everyday, I want him to enjoy this day to the fullest !"

The heron prince lets out the longest sigh you've ever heard from him (which says a lot about how done he is with your bullshit), but doesn't add anything else. Either he somehow understands how you feel being a big brother himself, either he's way too exasperated to say anything anymore. Tibarn doesn't look annoyed, sitting on the grass and simply bored by the situation as he suggests the first thing that comes to his mind.

"Why not giving him food ? There's no way he will dislike it."

"Food doesn't count as a gift..."

"I think it counts as one. Other than that, I don't have any idea I can give you."

You glance at Janaff and Ulki, hoping that they might have any genious idea but sadly for you, they just shake their heads, as clueless as their king. You dramatically fall on your knees, feeling like crying on the spot, earning you yet another exasperated sigh from Reyson who looks like he wants to repeatidly slam his head against the nearest tree. At this rate, not only will you not find any birthday gift for Ike, but you'll also lose one of your friends.

"Why do you even ask us to begin with ? We don't even know this child, how are we supposed to know what he will like ? Don't you think asking his family and friends would be a much wiser choice ?"

"... Oh. Y-You're right..."

"... You didn't think about it at all, did you ?"

"I panicked !!!"

"AHAHAHAHAH !"

Normally, you'd feel like dying at the moment from how loud Tibarn is laughing at you, but because it's Tibarn, you feel more flustered than embarrassed. Regardless your face is heating up like it never did before, and him raising his hand and patting your hair with fondness just makes things worse.

"My bad, little miss, I couldn't help it ! For once you act like a child your age ! You really are a cute one aren't you ?"

Nevermind, you do feel like dying. Your face has become redder than a tomato and you're pretty sure steam is coming out of your ears. The Hawk King's laugh gets louder and Janaff joins in as well as a result, and you can only let out a pitiful groan. Thankfully, Ulki being the kind laguz he is, simply pats your shoulder in attempt to ease your mind.

It doesn't work, but you still appreciate the thought.

It's finally Reyson, who seems to be pondering why the Goddess burdened him with such a stupid beorc like you, who saves you from completely embarrassing yourself by grabbing your hand and taking you away from the Hawk King. You're facing his back, but you can still tell he is awfully annoyed from the growls and the tone of his voice.

"Let us go already, this pointless discussion has lasted long enough. Didn't you tell King Caineghis you wanted to see the library ? This seems like a much more important matter."

"Alright..."

He really is done with your bullshit, isn't he ? You'll have to apologize with some food or something nice later.

Just as you can expect from a royal library, it is huge. The room is vast and full of shelves filled with hundreds of thousands of books. You just stare agape. You hope that in this sea of books, you'll find something that might actually help you. 

"So, why did you wish to come here ?"

"I'm searching whether there were any people like me that existed in Tellius. It might help me understand why I'm like this..."

'And how I can go back to my world.'

"... I see."

Reyson hums and closes his eyes, giving his thoughts on what the results of your researchs will be. And he's brutally honest with it.

"You will probably find nothing. Most documents here are records of our history- Of Laguz's history, as well as records on Tellius's origins. So if another beorc with your power existed, if there was ever one, you probably won't find any traces of them here."

That was actually exactly your thoughts, but hearing them voiced out by someone else still kinda hurts. But what else are you supposed to do ? Wait until the voice finally wakes up and tells you whatever the fuck you promised to do for it before you can go back to your world ? 

It's better to search for something that might not even exist than just wait that the Goddess gets tired of your presence here and sends you back home. 

"... Still, no matter how small the chances are, I want to try. I'll search on my own-"

"You think I've come just to watch you struggle ? I will help as well. I fear you might miss something important with how much of an airhead you can be."

"You're really the worst."

He turns around right after hearing this but you're still able to tell he's smirking, and you stick your tongue like the brat you are in answer. You love Reyson regardless of how much of a brat he can be himself.

The two of you split up to search on the two sides of the royal library. Just like the heron prince told you, most of the documents here are records of the end of slavery and the creation of the laguz kingdoms. Nothing you didn't know thanks to the information given in the artbook and the supports in game. 

And just as you feared and Reyson warned you of, there's absolutely nothing that can help you. There are records regarding beorc history, mainly about the creation of Crimea which aimed to improve beorc-laguz relationships and the creation of Daein right after, in response from those who wished to perpetuate the infinite circle of hatred.

Beorc can really be such bastards sometimes. 

But aside from this, nothing. There's nothing about any person, beorc or laguz or even branded alike, having ice powers or coming from another world like you. It's only things you already knew from the beginning.

Heck, the only thing you didn't expect was to find a fairytale hidden in the library. Why in the name of the Goddess is it here, you don't know, but it's definitely not a story for children that will help you. 

After a few hours of fruitless researchs, you finally give up. You'd almost feel disappointed if you didn't expect this to begin with. You let out a long sigh before turning toward Reyson, sitting on a chair and reading something. 

"Let's stop already... We won't find anything."

He doesn't answer, his gaze fixed to the book he's reading. At first you think he actually found something important, but you soon realize he wouldn't have had this reaction if it was that. The only thing you know that can make him react this way is...

"... Is this the Serenes forest ?"

"... It was."

It was.

Those words are filled with pain and bitterness. The Serenes forest used to be a beautiful and peaceful place, inhabited by even more beautiful and peaceful people, just as depicted in this drawing. But it is all memories of a distant, lost past. Now all that is left of the herons' home are black woods, forever proofs of the horrors the forest has witnessed. 

Forever proofs of what the herons endured, of what Reyson went through. But you know the forest and the herons will be reborn once again : all thanks to Ike's efforts. It will not happen yet, but you know the wounds on Reyson's heart will heal one day. And even if you can't say it, even if you can't do anything about it, you want to give him hope.

"It'll be alright. I'm sure... I know you'll get to see your home again."

To him, those words are just a vain attempt to bring him comfort. But he still accepts them, perhaps because he appreciates your gesture. Or perhaps because he can feel how convinced you seem to be. 

"... I hope so as well."

You put your head on his shoulder, and he places his head on top of yours in response. You breath out, relishing in the calmness of this moment. You know these moments won't last for long, so you want to enjoy them as much as you can.

A few days pass afterward. 

You decide to give up on searching in the royal library of Gallia's castle for now, since the researchs turned out to be fruitless. Maybe looking into Crimea's archives would give you something, but honestly you don't expect much.

Reyson respects your decision, deciding to stay a few more days to watch over you. Tibarn accepts although reluctantly, and has Janaff stay in Gallia for protection (and Janaff gladly accepts in order to watch over you and Reyson since you are in his words 'way too young for those kind of things'. You still don't get what he meant by that).

Moreover, you don't have the time : you must focus on Ike's incoming birthday, on your training and most importantly, on Elena's survival. You thank Caineghis once again for having given you access to the library, and he apologizes that it doesn't have what you need.

"Please do not apologize, your Majesty. I am more than grateful you let me have access to it. I shall wait for now and fully focus on my recovery."

"I understand your decision. If you wish to keep searching, I will ask for access to Crimea's royal library."

"Thank you very much. I will take my leave now. Oh, may... may I ask you a question ?"

"Yes, of course."

"Do you... Do you know what Greil's son would like as a birthday gift ?"

He blinks, and you feel your face heat up. At the very least he neither looks exasperated like Reyson nor does he dismiss your question. Instead, once his confusion passed, he answers your question genuinely and without pointing out how out of context it is.

"Hmm... Greil's eldest child, it is. I believe he dreams of becoming a man comparable to his father. Maybe something to remember him of his father's strength would make him happy."

"I- Thank you very much, your Majesty. I apologize for... asking you all of a sudden."

"Ahah, no need. I myself have a nephew, and a birthday is always an important event. You seem to have come to cherish Greil and Elena's children. It is a good thing, you won't feel too lonely. They are good children."

You can't help but smile fondly at the thought of Ike and Mist. Just as Caineghis said, they are wonderful children, and they will become people able to move the hearts and change the world. And hopefully... Hopefully their parents will be there to watch them.

"They are truly lovely children, indeed. I hope I will have the honor of meeting your nephew, King Caineghis."

"For now, he is training in the countriside... Moreover, he is still immature and much too stubborn. Hopefully, he will grow and become a proper king. I know he can."

Wait, hang on. King ?! Caineghis's nephew is the heir to the throne ?! Well it makes sense since Caineghis has no children on his own, but why the hell was he not mentioned in game-

"Ow..."

"Lady [Name], are you alright ?"

"I-It is fine your Majesty... My head hurts a bit, that is all."

"You should hurry and go to Elena before it worsens. We can continue this conversation later."

You hold your head, trying to hide your pensive face.

No. Caineghis's nephew is mentioned in game, he does appear. You know he does, just not in Path of Radiance. But your memories are being blocked by something, by someone, and your brain just cannot work properly. Your memories were changed, altered to fit someone else's agenda, to make you do what they want you to do, and that no one else but you can do. 

Just what is your role in this whole thing, what are you supposed to do ? Just what is the meaning of your presence in this world ? Of course, no one answers you.

After all, there's no need to tell a puppet the reasons of their actions.

"Be grateful to his Majesty, human. If not for his pity, you would be on your own."

"Lethe ! Don't be mean to [Name], she did nothing to you !"

"It's fine, it's fine. I know perfectly how lucky I am that his Majesty is so kind to me, Lethe. And I'll be eternally grateful to him and everyone."

"... Hmph. At least you're realistic."

Lethe merely turns her head around, and Mordecai sighs. Honestly, you could get used to this : Lethe still being cold toward you, Mordecai scolding her and you just vibing along the whole thing. And then, you just know she will warm up to you : if she warmed up to Ike, she will do the same for you.

... Hopefully. 

"Oh ! I hope you liked the food I brought ! It must've been long waiting for me, I'm happy you're willing to keep accompanying me."

"We follow orders, otherwise we wouldn't be here."

"Thank you for the food, [Name]. Mordecai is happy going along with you."

"The pleasure is all mine."

You're looking at Mordecai, but you can easily tell that Lethe is rolling her eyes, disgusted by the mere sight of a beorc and a laguz befriending each other. A good thing you didn't have her meet Reyson, otherwise he would've requested Caineghis not to let her approach you again.

Even if he knows Lethe's anger is justified and even shares similar feelings toward most beorc, he's still quite overprotective of you.

"It looks like we arrived already. I'll be taking my leave, I promise I'll be quick and bring food with me !"

You run away while waving your hand like a child, with Mordecai answering with a kind smile and his superior with a small wave of the hand, still not looking at you but you can't help but smile happily. Oh, she's already starting to like you ! Well, it would be more accurate to say she hates you less than before, but that's a start !

Elena and Mist no longer need to come find you at the entrance of the village since you now know the way to their home. The villagers have gotten used to your visits as well, some of them calling you 'Greil family's friend'. You can't help but feel happy to be recognized as someone they know instead of a stranger who came out of nowhere and will soon disappear never to be seen again. It makes you feel a little less out of place than usual.

When you arrive, you notice something different from usual. Ike isn't next to his father, probably training with a wood sword on a tree of the forest, and Elena and Mist aren't outside either, probably inside the house to prepare something. And then there's Greil,  standing in front of his house and discussing with someone you haven't met yet.

But the mere sight of those familiar, bright and resplendent crimson hair are enough for you to recognize her immediately. Greil notices you, and she turns around to face you. You're pretty sure your face is heating up.

She's as beautiful as in game, but younger and seemingly still wearing the crimean knights's armor meaning she has yet to join the Greil Mercenaries. Regardless of the years, she still has those gorgeous, long flowing red hair tied in a lose braid, and bright emerald eyes. She's beautiful, and incredibly strong. That is without a doubt, since she will soon become the Greil Mercenaries' second in command.

The deputy chief of the Greil Mercenaries and close companions of Ike, Titania. 

Oh by the Goddess, what are you supposed to do ? You don't know what to say, you've always been weak to cute, beautiful and powerful girls. Well, Lethe and Elena are beautiful as well, but Elena gives off a motherly aura, and Lethe is still hostile toward you. 

Her on the other has no reason to dislike you. You don't want to embarrass yourself in front of Titania, you've already lost more than enough of your pride for the rest of your life since you've arrived here. 

"Excuse me, are you alright ?"

"WAAAAH !!!"

You gasp and nearly fall on your butt, only to be caught by Greil right before it can happen. For not embarrassing yourself, it's screwed. Titania looks more guilty than amused for what happened though, and Greil isn't the kind of man to mock others, so you can salvage some of the pride you have left.

"Oh, I'm sorry ! I didn't mean to frighten you. You seemed lost in your thoughts, so I thought maybe something was wrong... I am Titania, I believe you are Lady [Name], right ?"

"N-No, it's not your fault ! I'm often like that actually... It's a bad habit of mine... And please, call me [Name] !"

"You do need to fix that habit of yours. I cannot recall how many times Elena worried over you spacing out so many times."

"You're making me sound like an airhead."

"Isn't it the case ?"

"Pfff- M-My apologies..."

Titania turns her head around to silence her giggles, and you throw at Greil a glare which he easily ignores. It's not like you can tell him the reason why you're spacing out so many times is because you've been trying to think of a way to avoid his and his wife's death and return home. 

"Ah ! [Name], you're back !"

Thankfully, Ike comes back from the forest at the right moment. He rushes toward you with a bright smile that makes you forget every single problem as well as that embarrassing moment you just had.

"Goodmorning Ike. You're still training as much as ever."

"Of course ! I have to if I want to become stronger than Father, one day !"

"You still have a long road ahead then." 

The blue haired boy pouts at his father's remark but doesn't deny it, knowing that what Greil is saying is true. You pat his shoulder with a reassuring smile to let him know that you believe in him.

Well, you know Ike will become the strongest hero of Tellius thanks to the game, so of course you have no doubt on it.

"It's okay, Ike. I know you will succeed one day. There's nobody as determined as you after all."

"You really believe it...?"

That cute blush on Ike's face is worth every single sufferings you went through so far. You smile genuinely, and it takes you your whole strength not to hug him when his face gets even redder.

"I'm sure of it."

"Don't go praising him too much, or else he might think he can defeat me. He can barely last five minutes for now."

"Father, you're the worst !!"

"Ahahahah !"

This time, Titania can't even hide her laughes, holding her stomach and wiping away some tears. At the very least, now you have Ike with you not to be the only one feeling embarrassed, since Greil simply rolls his eyes playfully. 

"O-Oh, you were here, Titania... I didn't notice you... Are you here for work ?"

"Indeed, it's been a long time Ike. You've grown a lot since last time. And I'm not surprised you didn't notice me, since you're in such a good company."

You swear you hear Ike choke on his spit. You give him a worried look, while the two adults with you simply chuckle. Titania soon calm down and answers Ike's question.

"But just as you said, I'm here for work. I'll soon join your father's company. I just came to discuss the last details."

So she's leaving Crimea's royal army to join the Greil Mercenaries now ? Well, it's just like in canon then : since you've only met Titania today it's normal nothing changed because of your presence here. You can't say you're not happy about it. And so is Ike, but for different reasons. 

"Really ?! That means you'll get to work alongside Father ! One day, I'll join the mercenaries too, you'll see !"

"I believe you need to grow up a little more."

"Titania is right. Ike, you're too young to join the company yet. You'll have to wait a few more years."

"Yes sir..."

While he seems disappointed, he doesn't argue much and simply lower his head. He too knows his father is right and that he needs a few more years to get ready. Especially knowing that when he'll start, he'll have to face a war and deadly enemies. But it'll be just fine, you know that. 

He won't need you, and nobody will once you're gone.

"[Name], do you want to come with me ? You're always with Mother and Mist so-"

"[Name]~~~"

"Ah, Titania is here as well ! Good morning Titania !"

Elena and Mist wave their hands, and you can see Ike drop his head once more. He really wants to spend time with you, doesn't he ? He's the one who met you first, yet his mother and his sister spend more time with you than he does. Since there's not a lot of children in the village, especially around his age, you guess he really wants to be friends with you.

That's honestly so cute.

"Don't worry, I promise I'll spend the whole day with you next time."

He goes from a disappointed to a blushing face. You love this baby boy.

You glance at Titania who's watching Elena and Mist approach them. You don't see an ounce of resentment, jealousy or envy in her gaze, you even notice fondness. Either she's not in love yet with Greil, either she considers Elena her friend rather than a rival, and simply wants her and Greil's happiness over her own. 

That's just how cool of a woman she is.

"Elena, Mist, it's good to see you. Greil and I were telling Ike he's too young to join the company yet."

"I can see him being a bit too excited about it... He takes after his father when it comes to stubborness and his love for action, doesn't he Greil ?"

"You are much worse than I am on that point, Elena..."

"Nonsense ! I am a healer, you are a knight ! I've never been into fights. Don't you agree, [Name] ?"

"I do agree on the fighting part... But when it comes to being stubborn, I believe you are equals."

Elena widens her eyes and holds her chest as if you had just betrayed her, while Greil chuckles a bit and Titania can't even breath with how much she is laughing. 

"I thought you were on my side ! You traitor !"

"But Mom, [Name] is right !"

"Not you too, Mist ! Ike, help me !"

"I think I shouldn't get involved..."

"I can't believe it, everyone is so mean... Especially you both, Greil, Titania !!"

"I-I'm not laughing at you... It's just that this whole situation is... quite special..."

"Ahahahahah !"

You can't fight back the huge smile creeping on your face.

For a second, just for a tiny second, you feel like you belong here.

"A birthday gift for Ike ? Mist and I have been working on a hairband to offer him, and Greil plans on giving him a dagger."

"I see..."

While Greil and Titania stays at the village to discuss and Ike went back to training, you are back in the flower field along with Elena and Mist. You're sitting along with the first while the child is happily playing, practicing your abilities while chatting about Ike's incoming birthday.

His mother is smiling at you mischievously, and you can already guess the incoming snickers.

"Awww, it's so cute how dedicated you are on finding the perfect gift. You truly love Ike, don't you~? Fufu, he also reciprocates the feeling, how eager I am to see you both grow together~~"

You know this is meant to be a joke, but it's like the universe is taunting you and reminding you that Elena doesn't get to see her children grow in the future in the original plot. You smile awkwardly, and try to hid your fears behind a smile the best you can.

"Ike has always been kind to me, so I feel like I need to repay his kindness. But I really don't know what I should give him... I can't make clothes like you, and I can't buy something since I'm not sure of his tastes. What to do..."

"Well, I believe you have a great instinct when it comes to other. You need to use that cute head of yours and give him something you know he'll love. Whether it's something you buy or you create, though I see you as someone who creates."

Create something for Ike. Create something based on what you know of him, on your abilities.

Your ice... Your ability to create... And maybe shape it.

You can always try, there's probably no risk as long as you make something small. You need something small but elaborate and that you easily remember. And so the first thing that comes to your mind is Mist's flower crown. You clearly remember the flowers she used to make it, the size and the exact appearance of it. 

You try gathering the cold in your hands just like you learned while imagining the flower crown and trying to shape it in your hands. Elena watches you, ready to stop shall the task be too exhausting for you. When you open your eyes, you watch in awe in the results of your work : an exact copycat of Mist's flower crown, but made in ice.

"Ooh ! [Name], it's so very pretty !"

"It truly is... Oh, there you go, Elena !"

You carefully place the crown on top of her head and watch the result. It is honestly pretty, but since Elena is a beautiful woman hardly anything looks bad on her. You just hope it doesn't feel too cold or anything. 

"You are so very pretty... Is it cold ?"

"Hihi, it's a bit cold but it does feel nice on hot days. Moreover it doesn't melt or break, it is a very beautiful gift. Thank you, [Name]."

She places her hand over your head and strokes your hair. It is a bit shameful, but you feel like a huge cat with how bad you enjoy those pats. Everything is perfect.

Until your eyes fall on the medallion. 

Your heartbeat quickens. Everytime you look upon this harbinger of disaster, you have cold sweats. And the distant sound of a storm in your ears, a sound of something you shouldn't even be supposed and able to hear, only worsen these feelings. 

That thing scares you. It shouldn't be here, shouldn't be around Elena's neck like some harmless accessory. It should be with the herons who can deal with its destructive powers. Maybe if you tell Elena about Reyson, maybe if you tell her to give it to him then-

Then he'll become Ashnard's target as well.

The realization terrifies you. If you give the medallion to Reyson, he'll be targeted along Phoenicis and the other laguz countries the moment Ashnard realizes he has the medallion. A war would then break out. Every citizen of Daein will rejoice in attacking the laguz, and Begnion would then join in because of the threat an alliance between laguz countries would represent. It'll be just like in canon, but much faster and worse, and Reyson will be even more in danger than in the original plot.

And it wouldn't do anything about the assassins. Even if Elena gives the medallion, her and Greil are still traitors. You highly doubt Ashnard would give up on eliminating them, especially since they ruined his plans, and things might end as bad as in canon. Thus, giving the medallion to Reyson is absolutely not an option. Destroying it is impossible, hiding it wouldn't be enough.

And you can't even touch it to take with you to begin with. You would go mad and freeze the whole area, killing everyone. 

"[Name] ? [Name], are you alright ? You're trembling !!"

That thing scares you. You want that medallion of disaster far, far away from here, far away from her, never to be seen again. But it's not possible, not now. Maybe if you tell her, if you tell her about what you know, maybe then-

"[Name]-!!"

"Mom~~~ [Name]~~~"

It's not Elena, but Mist's voice that brings you back to reality. You don't even notice the mother's lingering gaze on you as her daughter stares marvelled at your ice crown on top of Elena's head and then looks at you with pleading eyes. 

"Mom, that crown is so pretty~~~ It's all white and shiny ! [Name], you're the one who made it, right ? Can you make one for me please ? Please please please !"

"A-Ah, of course Mist ! I planned on making you one anyway."

"Yay~"

She happily jumps as you recreate another crown, still feeling Elena's gaze on you. You know she will want answer, but honestly you don't know what to say. The medallion simply terrifies you too much to hide those feelings of fear. At the very least, the young child's bright smile brings you confort.

"Waaaaaah, so pretty~~~ Thank you so much, [Name] ! You are amazing !"

"It's a gift for the crown you've made me. I'll make you as many of them as you like." 

"Let's make flower crowns for Dad and Ike too !"

"I'd love too."

Mist runs away to gather the flowers she needs, leaving you alone with her mother. You don't know what to say, and you don't want to stay close to the medallion. So you desperately try to change the subject so you can escape the confrontation.

"I-I think I'll try doing more things with my power, it might help me get better-"

"[Name]."

Yeah, you expected this. 

You gulp and your fearful eyes meet with Elena's calm blue ones. There's no suspicion in her eyes, instead it seems she has already understood everything. You can't say if it reassures or scares you.

"The medallion... You are scared of it. You... You are aware of its nature."

You widen your eyes upon hearing this.

If she's telling you this it means she trusts you, even though your actions are suspicious. It makes you happy, but at the same time you feel guilty about it. You can't be fully honest with her. But at the very least, you don't want to lie right now.

"It... Scares me. That thing, it's... It's dangerous. It's chaos and disaster itself."

"... Yes. You are right. That medallion is dangerous. Which is why I was entrusted with it."

She brushes the bronze medallion with the tip of her fingers, her gaze lost in the horizon. Her mind must be filled with thoughts of her dead friend Lilia, of the innocent heron princess who protected the medallion's secrets with her life and entrusted Elena with the artifact on her deathbed. Which is why even if she knows it is dangerous, she wants to keep her promise. 

No matter what.

"I have to keep it away from those who would use it for their own selfish and self-destructive goals until I bring it back to its rightful place. This is the promise I have made."

"Elena..."

"[Name]. There is something I would like you to do."

You nearly gasp upon seeing her taking off her necklace and holding the cursed medallion in her hands, handing it to you.

"Please, try to touch it."

"No !!!"

Your response is so immediate it shocks you. Elena is unwavering, still showing you the medallion like it is absolutely not inhabiting the spirit of a dark god that corrupts the very souls of men. 

"[Name]. It will be fine."

"No no no, please no Elena, I can't ! I-It scares me !! W-What if something happens ?! I'm scared !"

"It will be fine. I promise."

This conversation remembers you of the times when your mother brought you to the doctor as a toddler to get your vaccine. She kept repeating it would be just fine while you were just wailing like the child you were. But this time, it’s not a needle : this thing can drive mad nearly everyone and transform them into monsters.

You don't know why Elena seems so sure it will be fine, but you absolutely don't want to risk proving her wrong by killing her.

"I can't, I just can't..."

"[Name], do you trust me ?"

"Y-Yes of course, but-"

"Then trust me once more."

She gives you a warm smile, and you are left speechless. You feel like trusting her, even if your whole being is screaming at you to run away. Gathering your courage, you take a deep breath, shut your eyes and reach for the medallion with your bare hands. 

The first thing you feel is the sensation of frost spreading in your body.

The sound of raging winds gets louder, as if you're no longer in that peaceful place but in the middle of a snow storm. You feel your entire body trembles, and you can't tell whether it is because of the cold, or because of the fear of opening your eyes and seeing everyone frozen. 

And then, you open your eyes and...

"As I thought. You too can safely touch it."

"... Huh ?"

You blink. Once, then twice. Elena is still there. Mist is still there. Everything is still there, unchanged. Your gaze fall on the hands holding the medallion, your hands.

"How..."

"There can be multiple explanations but... The one that makes the most sense to me would be that you have some sort of link to the medallion. Maybe..."

She looks up to you with eyes full of hope, as if she has finally found what she has been searching for this whole time.

"Maybe you were the one person Lilia wanted me to bring the medallion to."

"... I... I don't think so."

You know you are not the person Elena is searching for : the one Lilia wanted Elena to give the medallion to is Altina, and you are definitely not Altina. 

Moreover, a link with the medallion might not be the only plausible explanation : you are a being from outside of Tellius. According to Volke in his dialogue with Ike, beorc and laguz alike are made of two energies : order and chaos. And as you are neither of them, you possess neither of the two forces within you. The medallion must have no effect because it cannot affect someone deprived of chaos energy.

"I see... You may be right. Even so, I still believe there's a reason why you are here."

She still stares at you as if you had answered every single question she has been asking herself so far, as if she had finally understood her role. You can't help but feel guilty, because you know all you are giving her is false hope. You lower your head to glance at the medallion. 

You don't know why, but you can swear you heard a voice coming out of it.

It happens several weeks after discovering your immunity to the medallion's power.

It's been a few months since you've arrived in Gallia. Everything went relatively well : you continued getting better at using your powers by making ice flower crowns for Mist. Elena chose not to speak further about the artifact, letting you some time before you are ready to discuss the matter again.

Honestly, you don't feel you will ever be ready to talk about it. Even though you now know the medallion doesn't have any effect on you, it remains the catalyst of all the incoming tragedies. And then, hearing a voice from that medallion knowing an evil god is sealed inside is pretty creepy. But at the very least, you might be able to convince Elena to give you the medallion and run away with it once the assassins are gotten rid of so you can protect her, Greil, Ike and Mist. 

If you are very, very convincing about it. 

"Recently I've seen some children wearing ice flower crowns. You are the one who made them for the children, aren't you ?"

"They looked very curious but didn't dare approach, so I left some on the grass. I didn't think they would like it this much."

"[Name] likes children a lot."

"Hmph."

Lethe hasn't opened herself much to you. You did make progress, but they're so small it's difficult for you to notice them. But at least she stopped glaring at you nonstop. Mordecai does notice the changes as well and cheers on you to keep up. 

"Ah ! Maybe I should make one for you !"

"I am no child, I don't want your crow- What are you doing ?!"

You decide not to listen to her. You create the crown right away in your hand (you've gotten used to it by now) and place it on her head. You can't hold back from smiling at the result of your work, and so does Mordecai who's making sure his superior will not try tearing you apart.

"It suits you, Lethe~~~ I've always thought you are beautiful, so I had no doubt it would be great on you !"

"Hmm, Mordecai thinks the same."

"You idiot beorc !!"

"Eheh, sorry I got excit- Wait. You said beorc instead of human..."

She called you beorc. Not human. She called you without any insult. Does it mean that now...

"You don't hate me anymore ? Lethe, I'm so happy !"

"Grrr, just leave already !!"

"Lethe, don't scream, you're scaring her !"

She yells at you nonetheless with a furious blush on her face, and you run away before she decides to kill you. It's feels like you're a child escaping her parents after she did something stupid, and it feels great.

A shame the sight of the village takes away the smile on your face.

Something has happened. It's definitely not Daein's assassins, which slightly reassures you, but there's something wrong with the whole atmosphere, and there are rocks all over the ground. Rock stained with blood. People are mumbling, looking left and right with dissatisfied expressions on their faces. 

"W-What is going on...?"

"Oh ! If it isn't the pretty girl who visits Greil's children !"

A eldery man you don't recognize approaches you. From the way he talks he must've seen you coming to see Elena and knows you from face. 

"Uhm... D-Did something happen ? They all seem so... upset..."

"Ah, you weren't there... A halfblood came here. Awful, isn't it ?"

You feel bile rising up in your throat.

You know who he is talking about. 

"They chased it away, but some are worried it might be a bad omen... The Goddess herself forbade the birth of these creatures after all. But the woods are vast, and it will probably die quickly, eaten by wild animals or something."

You bite your lip until you draw blood not to fucking kill the man. 'It', not 'him'. He's not even a person to them. He's not even a child to them. Just because of a few words. 

He misinterprets your horror and 'reassures' you with a kind smile that completely contrasts with the cruelty of the situation. 

"You need not to worry, I'm sure it'll be fine. It won't come near the village again. Greet Greil and Elena for me."

"... Yes. I will. Thank you."

Every word that comes out feels like acid. Had you let your rage take the better of yourself, you would've insulted everyone here. A good thing the man quickly leaves, and no one notices you running to the house. 

"Eh ? You cannot stay ? You need food ? Of course, here you go- Ah, [Name] wait !"

"I'll tell you later, thank you Elena !"

You skip your usual lesson with Elena and run away with the provisions in the forest discretly. You have no idea where he can be, but you refuse to stay put and your legs carry you in whatever spot he can be. You never expected to get to hear of him and even get to meet him, but you guess fate has yet again to prove you otherwise. 

You always knew he would be around since it's around this time he met Ike. But you couldn't have expected to hear of him before that meeting. Helping him might change the whole plot, but right now you don't give a shit.

It's not about the plot. It's about a persecuted child needing help.

You don't know how, but you succeed finding him, nestled against the trunk of a tree and trembling, eyes closed. He's so small, so thin you would've nearly missed him.

He's a squeleton. 

It takes you a lot not to burst into tears. You always thought his story was tragic. But sometimes, you couldn't help but dislike how harsh and cruel he could be towards others. While it was most of the time only him telling the truth, both you and brother were annoyed by his coldness.

Now you can't blame him anymore. You can't blame that child, that poor child whose only mistake was to be born from a laguz and a beorc. From the very moment he was born, his existence was deemed a sin.

You cannot blame him for loathing the laguz who refused to acknowledge his existence. For loathing the beorc who chased him away and persecuted him. For loathing his parents for giving birth to him then abandoning him. For loathing the Goddess who deemed his existence a sin in the first place. For loathing the entire world for his unfair sufferings. 

He didn't deserve any of that. No one deserves that. So even if that meeting changes the plot, you want at least to give him some happy memories in his sorrowful childhood. 

"... Good morning."

He jumps awake and presses himself against the tree, his red eyes staring at you fearfully. His face is covered of hematomes, blood and dirt, but the red mark on his forehead is still visible. All his sufferings were caused by that mark. Because that mark is proof of what he is.

A branded. People in which the blood of both beorc and laguz run through. People who are both, yet neither, and forever condemned to be hated and rejected. 

He is the first branded introduced in game, though at first it was unknown. But throughout the story and dialogues, the truth was soon found out. He lived in fear for most of his life, but chose to fight for the one person who helped him, for the one person who saved him. He became Ike's right arm and best friend, and an ally who would accompany him to the end of the world.

The Greil Mercenaries' strategist, Soren. 

"... I'm sorry. I have scared you, haven't I ?"

He's completely different from the rude person you saw in game. At the moment, Soren looks like a mouse desperately trying to escape a predator. He must want nothing more but to run away, but you doubt he has the strength to do so. His legs are so thin you're shocked he was even able to run away this far from the village. 

"It's... It's okay. I know. It's scary and it hurts... You are both. And I am neither."

He blinks upon hearing you, but still doesn't lower his guard. You touch the ground and create small ice flowers, and he widens his eyes. You want him to understand that you are no danger to him. That you are someone he can trust.

That you're not so different from him. 

"I can use magic to create ice without any tomes. I only discovered this ability recently after arriving here... You see, I am from a faraway land. Very, very, very far away. From outside of Tellius, from a place where there's no such thing like beorc and laguz. I look like a beorc, but I'm not one. I don't have the blood of laguz running in my veins. And I am not like you, who has both their blood running in your veins. I'm none of them. And no one knows. It's scary, isn't it ? To be the only one like that. To feel like..."

You take a deep breath. 

"Like you don't belong anywhere."

Soren still watches you with a mix of fear and confusion, but he no longer looks as eager to get away from you as before. He seems to believe your words despite how crazy they sound, and you're grateful for that. 

"But you see... I met people here. People I came to love, and who came to love me. Beorc and laguz alike. At first, it was difficult but... We ended up understanding each other. Even if I know I'm different from them, even if I know... I shouldn't be with them to begin with, I still love them. And... And I know they will love me no matter what."

'And will miss me when I'm gone, even though I have to.'

"In truth, beorc and laguz are not so different. Just like there are good and bad beorc, there are good and bad laguz. The world is not completely white or black, it's different shades of grey. Just like you will meet people who will refuse to recognize your existence, just like there will be people who will hate you for what you are..."

You give him a bright smile, probably the first genuine smile he has ever seen in his life.

"There will be people who won't care about any of this. People who will accept you and love you for who you are. Maybe it sounds unreal and impossible, but such people do exist. You will meet them one day, for sure, and I will be that first person. So don't give up, don't believe you were born only to suffer. It will be alright. I'll help you the best I can, I promise."

The boy in front of you no longer looks scared. He opens his mouth, perhaps to try saying something (though you know he cannot talk), but instead of words you hear the sound of a growl coming from his stomach.

"Ah, I'm sorry !! I should've given you this right away ! I know you must be starving so I took bread and cheese and some meat as well..."

You hand him the bread Elena gave you, and he snatches it immediately. He devours the food you gave him so quickly you're scared he might start choking, and the sound he makes next doesn't reassure you.

"B-Be careful, don't eat too fast or else you'll choke-"

The next thing you know, Soren is hugging you and sobbing. He cannot speak any words, just cry loudly, but you know what those tears mean.

Thank you. 

You suddenly feel like crying as well, but you hold back. You hold him in your arms and let him cry as much as he needs to.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry you've been alone for so long... I'm sorry no one helped you... I promise you won't be alone again... I promise I'll help you, I promise..."

You cradle him in your arms and repeat soothing words.

As much as you hate to, you're forced to leave Soren.

You want to take him with you, but you can't : if you bring him to Greil's house, some villagers might recognize him. And bringing him to Gallia's capital isn't an option either, because you know laguz will most likely spot him right away, and you highly doubt they will accept Soren like they accepted you. And of course, you cannot stay with him to watch over him, or else everyone will think you got lost or kidnapped and they will panick and start looking for you.

You leave with him a part of Lethe and Mordecai's food since he devoured all the provisions you brought him and you promise you will come tomorrow. You fear at first Soren might think you lied to him, but he remains calm. He must understand you're short in options and that leaving him in the forest is the best option to keep him safe. You give the little boy one last hug before departing and meet with Lethe and Mordecai. 

The female laguz frowns upon seeing you, as if noticing something is wrong with you. There's no animosity, but you still feel like she already guessed what happened. 

"You took longer than usual. You never did that before, did something happen ?"

"Actually, I wasn't feeling well today, so the healer to keep me a little longer. Also, I got a little hungry, so I ate some of your food... I'm very sorry..."

The two of them blink, then they look at each other as if suddenly thinking the same thing. And then, Mordecai chuckles.

"Ahah..."

"W-What is it ?"

"[Name] is very bad liar."

"Eh ?"

"Ahahah ! I didn't know someone could be such a bad liar, especially a beorc. But well, I do not mind, it's quite endearing. Let's go."

"Eh ??"

Lethe smirks and starts walking along Mordecai, and you have to run to catch up with them.

"Y-You're not upset ? Even though I ate your food ?!"

"We know you did not, and I don't care much about what happened to it."

"I-Is that so ? Thank you..."

"Just hurry so we can go back to Gallia quickly."

"Y-Yes !"

Lethe really is starting to take a liking to you, isn't she ?

Chapter Text

It's been more than a year since you've arrived in Tellius. You found no clue on your situation and how to go back to your world yet, but for now you try focusing on other matters. 

Your training and Elena's healings paid : you're now able to use your powers for a longer time without facing side effects right away. You can't say you're strong enough to beat Ashnard or the Black Knight but hey, now you can fight someone and win without needing to end up half dead. Which is a huge progress, and at least Reyson won't have to worry about you nearly dying every time. 

And of course, you keep spending time with everyone : you try assisting more often to Ike's training, you keep playing along Mist and Elena, and you help Greil when he needs a few more hands. And when you are not in the village, you stay in Zarzi and keep on entertaining the children, who are no longer as suspicious of you as they were before.

"I don't think I've ever seen a beorc so loved by laguz, especially children."

"I believe that what they love are the crowns I make. But I think they're starting to trust me a little bit more than before."

"They definitely are. By the way... Can you make one for me ?"

"Eh ?"

You frown, surprised by Ranulf's request. He's currently sitting with you on the grass, Lethe and Mordecai being elsewhere, and Reyson and Janaff discussing with Caineghis about the feral ones (or at least that's what sounds the most likely to you).

You didn't really mind being on your own, but Ranulf insisted to stay with you, saying he didn't have anything else to do anyway. And since you're a huge simp, you didn't find in yourself the will to say anything else. 

"Well, of course I can ! But it might be a bit cold on your ears, will it be alright ?"

You create almost immediately the crown and hand it to Ranulf. He raises it in the air and examine it in before letting out a whistle.

"No wonder the children love it. It really does look exactly like a flower crown. Actually if not for the overall white color, I'd think it is a real one. Your power really is versatile."

"Eheh, thank you. If you ignore the fact it can kill me if used too much, it's a pretty great power."

You said those words without trying to be sarcastic, but now that you are hearing them, it sounds hella so. You immediately shake your hands upon seeing Ranulf's guilty face, now feeling bad for even saying this in the first place.

"A-Ah, I didn't mean it in a bad way !! I-I mean, it's true that it's a pretty dangerous power, but now it's all fine, I can use it really well ! Look."

You gather the frost within your body in your hands before creating something much more different from a simple flower crown. You've been training for weeks to be ready for the d-day, and you can proudly say you did well.

"Wait... Is that...?"

"This is the gift I plan on giving to someone for his birthday. My ice is unique, it doesn't melt or break as long as I am close to it. I'm sure he'll love it."

"You sure work hard when it comes to your friends... That's a good thing. You're a good person."

You blink, seeing his expression gets serious all of a sudden despite the smile on it. This kind of face reminds you of the ones characters would make when saying important things in game. As if you were slowly but surely becoming part of it.

"Hmm ? What... do you mean ?"

"Good people, as sad as it is, are rare. Greed, selfishness, hatred... Such are the ugly emotions present in our hearts, beorc and laguz alike. We are all creations of the Goddess Ashera, and yet war and racism have persisted for centuries. Selfless kindness is a treasure... I hope you'll remain that way."

You'd normally blush at those words, and yet you don't react at all. You can't help but ponder those words. 

Kindness... Can you really call yourself kind ? Can you really call yourself a good person ? You, who hide so many secrets ? You, who no one truly knows or understand ? You know you are not a bad person. You don't wish for anyone's sufferings- You did kill people, but only in self-defense- and simply want others to be happy. 

But for all the terrible truths you hide, no, you cannot call yourself a 'good person'. You're morally grey approaching white, at best. Moreover, in such a world where every single decision taken can cause ruin to someone somewhere, kindness will be seen as cruelty or hypocrisis by those same people. Something you've seen much too often in the Tellius serie.

"Not everyone... might think that. The way someone is seen vary from one person to another. The hero of a country will be the villain of its enemy, a saint for some will be a witch for others. Regardless of how righteous our actions are, we will always be blamed by someone for it. In the end, all we can do is continue on the path we deem right."

Ranulf chuckles, but you can see he seems a bit worried by how dark the conversation has turned out to be, and how serious you suddenly are. 

"You're young, but talk like an old person. You should take it easy."

"I've been under stress for quite a while so..."

"Yes, I did realize that. Which is why-"

You gasp as he takes suddenly your face in his hands and pinches your cheeks to put a smile on your face. This time, you do blush from the physical contact, and the laguz is sadly not oblivious enough not to notice it.

"You should smile more. See ? You are smiling now, and blushing as well. You look more like someone your age, and very cute at that."

Now, this is just unfair. He's using his charms on purpose to make you feel flustered, how dare he uses your weakness to handsome men to transform you into a blushing mess. And because of your weakness, you can't talk back to him. 

"Ahem."

On the other hand Reyson and Janaff, who are standing right behind you, are not so weak to Ranulf's face as you are. Reyson has this frown on his face that he always has when he's annoyed, and Janaff looks like your father when he sees you too close to a boy for his standards. 

"You two seem to... get along very well. But may I know why you're so close all of a sudden ?"

"Ranulf, not you as well !! She's a child !!! A child !!!"

Ranulf throws you a puzzled gaze, to which you answer with a shrug. Honestly, now you're so used to Janaff being your overprotective new mama you're not surprised by his reactions anymore. But for Reyson, you didn't think he would react this way. You guess it's his big brother instinct kicking in. Ranulf seems not to think the same, though.

"What is the problem ? We were only discussing. She seemed to be feeling down, so I tried to make her smile."

"You didn't need touching her face to do that."

"You're being awfully protective of her, Prince Reyson."

"She bleeds and vomits blood, her health is fragile. Of course, we need to watch over her."

You can't help but playfully roll your eyes. Reyson has never been fine with you using more and more your powers, saying that it is way too dangerous and that your health matters most. What he doesn't seem to want to understand is that using them is the only way to ensure you'll survive long enough to get to meet more characters in the future. 

"There's no need to worry so badly for me, Reyson. I'm doing perfectly now."

"I'll stop worrying for you when you'll do it yourself."

"Ugh..."

Ouch. You can't say his reasoning doesn't make sense. Your carelessness, especially now that you are in Tellius, might one day kill you. You're no longer powerless, but that doesn't mean you're invincible either, and with your uncanny ability to get into life threatening situation, the day you die might get a bit too close to your liking.

"I'll do my best..."

"[Name]..."

"Now, Reyson. You know that stubborness and carelessness of hers is part of [Name]'s charm."

"Huh- WAAAAAAAH ?!"

Your surprised face turns into an embarrassed and bright red one upon being feeling yourself being carried and lifted in the air with ease. All form of composure you had is lost, and you turn your gaze toward the grinning man responsible for this, accompanied by Ulki.

"K-King Tibarn ?! Ulki ?! W-What are you doing here ?!"

"Ahahah ! It has been a while, [Name]. You seem to be in better shape, although you're still very frail. Do you eat properly ?"

"I-I'm still young, of course I look frail to you !"

"I can't help but worry since you're still young. It is not that I don't trust King Caineghis with your protection, but you're quite reckless. Then again, I am myself like that so I find that quite likeable !"

"T-T-This is not a good thing ! A-And you still didn't tell me why you were here ?! Also please let me down !"

He does listen to you this time and puts you down, patting your head with a carefree face and further destroying your remaining pride.

"King Caineghis and I needed to have a conversation. I thought about visiting our cute little beorc."

"I am neither little or cute !"

"Ahahahah !"

Just how long will he keep on making you lose all your composure ? And while you desperately try not to look like the young maiden in love with Tibarn you are in front of everyone, Ranulf approaches Reyson and whispers in his ears.

"You should rather worry about their relationship..."

"... Tibarn sees [Name] as a child. I think he has adopted her like Janaff did..."

"This is even more worrying for everyone else then..."

Reyson still doesn't get what he meant.

"Finally... Today is the day..."

"You're making it sounds like a life-or-death matter. You realize it is a child's birthday, do you ?"

"[Name] has been waiting for the birthday for a long time... She is very excited."

You bet you are excited : getting to spend with your cute little Ike his birthday is like a dream come true. Not every fangirl gets the occasion to meet the object of their affection, even less interact with them. So you know you're being very lucky.

But honestly that's well deserved for all the pain and stress you've been enduring this whole time. 

"I will probably stay in the village for the night... I'm very sorry to make you come here tomorrow again."

You bow to Lethe and Mordecai, apologizing for all the trouble you bring them. You get how much of a hassle for them it must be to act like a babysitter for someone they barely know. Well mainly for Lethe, you highly doubt Mordecai would ever be able to think badly of someone.

"It's fine. We simply follow the orders we've been given. Now go... And be careful."

You raise your head immediately after hearing the female laguz say this. She's looking away from you, probably because she doesn't want to see your eyes filled with happiness and expectations. 

"You really love me now, Lethe...!!"

"Ugh, just leave already !"

You nod and turn around to leave, but stop yourself and rush toward the two of them to give them a hug. And while Mordecai reacts pretty well to it and even hugs you back, Lethe... not so much.

"What are you-?!"

"I'm on my way !"

You start running away before she can try murdering you. What can you say, you love hugs.

"Ugh, this girl is such a...!!"

"Lethe shouldn't lie. You've come to like [Name] ?"

"Mordecai, be quiet !!"

The cat laguz looks away and growls, trying to hide her flushed face. Despite the threats Mordecai is smiling, used to his superior's personality. She stays silent for a few moments, before mumbling something. 

"........ She's naive."

"Huh ?"

"She's naive. She's aware of the hostility others feel toward her, and yet she stays friendly no matter what others tell her."

"[Name] is a very kind girl."

"She's too kind, and that is not a good thing. She's a rare case among her rotten kind, who wouldn't hesitate to use people this innocent..."

"So Lethe is simply worried for [Name]."

"I am not !! It's just..."

She turns her head around and whispers something that barely reaches Mordecai's ears. 

"I just hope nothing bad happens to her..."

After the incident with Soren, you can't quitely see the villagers the same way.

You mean by that you now think of them as no better than the people of that Crimean town (Toha if you remember correctly). All the joy you felt after leaving Lethe and Mordecai is now replaced by a feeling of nausea upon seeing them act like they did not chase and pretty much try to kill a kid a few months ago.

You could tell yourself that they didn't all take part in this, that they're not such bad people. But everytime you try thinking that, Soren comes to your mind.

Soren, too small and weak to hurt anyone. Soren, who has only known pain and misery since his birth. Soren, who only meant to ask for help and was attacked instead. Soren, covered in wounds and dirt, who sobbed for hours in your arms.

You cannot and will not forgive them for this. Ever. 

"Oh ! It's you ! [Name], isn't it ? How are you ? Are you here to celebrate the birthday Greil's son ?"

"Hello, I'm fine thank you. Yes, I've been told it was his birthday today."

"He's a good child, I wish for him a happy birthday."

"I will tell him."

You answer with a smile surprisingly realistic. You've realized that while you suck at lying to the people you care for, you actually have no qualms lying to strangers, and the fact you now hate most of the people in this village does help a lot making you lie without much remorse. Just like they attacked Soren and let him to die in the forest without any remorse.

And yet, you cannot bring yourself to let them die when that day will come. Because even if they did something unforgivable, you don't have the right to decide whether or not they deserve to live. No one has this right, especially not an outsider like you.

"[Name] !"

"Here you are !"

Your bad mood immediately fades away upon seeing Elena and Mist approaching you with bright smiles that can easily replace any kind of therapy. It feels suddenly much easier for you to breath and ignore the people around you as you only focus on following them.

"Elena, Mist ! I hope I'm not late !"

"Not at all, you've actually come early."

"Dad and Brother are in the forest right now, so we're getting everything ready ! I can't wait for him to see what we made for him !"

"Eheh, I'm sure he'll be very happy."

"By the way, are you ready for his gift ?"

You nod your head and smile proudly. Ike's smile will be worth all the sweat and blood (mainly blood) you've shed to be ready. You really can't wait to see him, it's going to be amazing. 

"All this hard work will be worth it after today...!"

"Mom, don't you think [Name] is even more excited than all of us ?"

"She is." 

"I am !"

You don't even try denying the blatant truth and take both the mother and her daughter's hands and head toward their home, more than happy to get away from the town. Good thing nobody approached or else, your newfound lying abilities would've been found out real quick. 

Just as they said, neither Ike nor Greil are home yet. While Mist rushes toward the house to help with the preparations, you ask Elena about tonight.

"Are you sure it is not a problem if I stay here for tonight ? I wouldn't want to bother you further..."

"What nonsense are you saying ? We are more than happy that you spend the whole day with us. Ike would've been so sad if you couldn't have stayed. And then, you're practically the fifth member of this family at this point."

She chuckles and pats your burning and steaming head. It's true that you've been spending so much time with them it is now weird to be apart even for a day. And yet, you didn't think they'd start to see you as being a member of their family, a new constant in their daily life.

A constant that is meant to forever disappear one day, although they don't realize it yet. All you will leave behind are memories. So you want those memories to be beautiful, so that you and all your friends can treasure them when you won't be able to meet ever again.

You didn't mean for this to happen but... Perhaps it is better, less painful and heartbreaking than leaving without leaving a word or a trace.

"T-T-Th-Thank you........ IloveyoutooElena.........."

"I heard that~~"

You can never be more grateful to Ike and Greil, carrying them woods and swords, for showing up before you pass out from sheer embarrassment. The young boy's face brightens up upon seeing you, and you smile back while approaching him.

"Goodmorning, Ike ! Happy birthday !"

"[Name], you came !"

You were just going to pat his head, but instead he goes for a hug and takes you in his arms. He's still smaller than you so his head only reaches your torso, and you can't help but find it absolutely adorable. You hug him back and puts your head on top of his, knowing soon enough he'll grow taller than you and your position will be switched.

"Of course I came. I promised I would."

"You have a fragile health, so I'm always scared you might get sick..."

"Oooooh, Ike. You're such a kind boy, worrying about others so badly !"

"He only does so when it comes to her..."

You hear Greil and Elena mumble something you don't hear completely, and their blushing son throw them a glare as he let go of you. Mist soon comes out of the house, noticing both her brother and her father back. She approaches while carrying two wooden baskets filled with food, and stops right in front of Ike and smiles mischievously. 

"You're back, brother ! See ? I told you [Name] would come ! I'll let you have her all to yourself for today~"

"MIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIST !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

If not for Greil being right there, you're pretty sure Ike would've tried strangling his sister like Homer with Bart in the Simpsons. Mist knows this as well and sticks out her tongue while hiding behind her chuckling mother. The poor boy can only count on you as support in this embarrassing situation, his father clearly holding back a chuckle.

"Mist is right, today is your day. So I will be spending the whole day with you, isn't that fine ?"

".... Mmmhr... Yes..."

"Then let's go ! Mist, show us the way !"

You take Ike's flushed, tiny hand while Elena grabs the other, and Mist walks in front followed by her father. The way to the lake is filled with Mist and Elena's laughs, Greil's few chuckles, and your conversations with Ike. You still hold each other's hands, having promised you would spend this day together. 

Once you arrive at the lake, Greil puts down the baskets and sits along Elena while you run along the children in the flower field. Despite her promise, Mist still plays with you and snickering to make Ike even more upset. You can't believe she can be such a gremlin sister. 

Even so, it's incredibly fun. You haven't had played like that since your childhood, when you were a normal little girl not much older than Mist. You play cat, run in the grass until you fall and can't get up anymore, laugh until your breath gets short. You hug Ike and Mist close to you, like you're their older sister. And this whole time, the two adult with you watch over you, with happy smiles. 

And as the day passes, so does the time of gifts comes.

"Hmm, that hairband suits you well, Ike ! Don't you think so, Mist ?"

"Yes ! We did a great work !"

"Eheheh, I love it. Thank you, Mother, Mist."

It's the same hairband as the one he wears in game, and you now understand that it is because that hairband is one of the few memories of his mother. You try not to look worried, not wishing to make Ike sad when he looks so happy. He takes off the hairband of his head, the dagger his father offered him next to him.

Now comes your turn, and you can't say you're not excited to see his reaction, and it seems he's as eager to see your gift as you are. 

"Can you close your eyes, Ike ?"

"Hmm ? Okay !"

The child obeys right away, and you focus all your efforts in gathering your powers in your hands and create the gift you've been preparing for Ike. Elena and Mist watch you in awe, and even Greil seems impressed. 

"Amazing..."

"It's so pretty..."

"Wait... Is that..."

"Ike, you can open your eyes."

He does so, and his deep blue eyes widen. You smile brightly, as you hand him your gift.

An ice sword, made to resemble the legendary sword he would one day wield, Ragnell.

"It's... a sword... A white sword..."

"I wished to offer you something unique, and I thought of this. You should try it. It shouldn't be too heavy, even I can wield it normally."

He crouches down, his hands approaching the sword slowly. It's only a fake, a gift meant only for a child's birthday, but weirdly enough this moment almost feels... sacred. As if you're actually giving the real Ragnell to Ike. He stops for a moment and glances at you, and you smile and nod to let him know it's okay.

He takes the sword and raises it in the sky, and for a moment, you're hit by a feeling of nostalgia. You're seeing the man he will become. The hero he will become. 

"Brother, you look so cool !"

"Eheh, he definitely takes after his father."

"You are starting to look like a true man, Ike."

"Father... Can I fight you with this sword ?"

"Hmm ? ... Very well. Let's see if you got better since last time."

Greil blinks, surprised by his son's sudden request but soon smiles and nods. You're quite worried Ike might get hurt, but since you've made sure the sword isn't too sharp and Greil won't go too hard on his son, it should be fine.

Well, you hope it will be. 

You sit next to Elena and Mist as father and son take their stance, Ike holding the ice sword while Greil is using a simple wooden sword. Knowing that your ice is practically unbreakable, Ike has an advantage. However... It is still pretty obvious to you who will win.

"Now... Let's start !"

"HYAAAAAH !!!"

Ike rushes toward his father, swinging his sword and attacking relentlessly whereas Greil takes a defensive stand, protecting himself by blocking each of the boy's attack with his sword. You see his eyes widen slightly, and you realize he has understood his sword won't wisthand the attacks for long. 

Defence won't do any good. So he decides to attack.

Positioning himself to take advantage his towering height, his swings become more aggressive, forcing Ike in his father's former position. The wooden sword is on the verge of breaking, but Ike's grip on his weapon is weak. Using this against him, Greil puts all his strength on his last attack, the two swords' clash creating a terribly loud sound.

The force of the impact is too strong for the little boy. The ice sword falls off Ike's hands, flying and falling not too far from them. The blue haired boy falls on his knees, Greil holding his nearly broken sword in front of his face.

"... I win."

This was just supposed to be a training. But dammit.

That was intense.

"By the Goddess, I was so scared ! This is the first time I've seen you fight like that !"

"It was really incredible ! Right, [Name] ?"

You only realize now you've been holding your breath your whole time. Fights in game are turn based, which make battles sometimes look quite... bored. But this is completely different, and it opened your eyes.

Greil is... so strong. Ike had a cheat weapon, but he still managed to win. No wonder he is considered one of Tellius's strongest warrior. Thank goodness even his monstrous strength cannot break through your ice, else you'd have been done for. 

"... It was intense. Ike, are you okay ?"

He seems shaken by his father's last attack, but it doesn't seem he's hurt which is a relief. He however looks disappointed of his training battle with Greil. 

"I... am fine. It seems I still have a long way to go to defeat Father."

Said Father is staring at the ice sword on the ground. He walks past Ike and lifts the sword, taking his own, real sword out of his sheath. He then glances at you, and you immediately understand what he's planning to do.

"[Name]. May I ?"

"... Go ahead."

Next thing you know, he's hitting the ice sword with his steel one. This time Greil's weapon doesn't resist and break instantly, shards of steel falling on the ground, whereas the white sword remains unscathed. The rest of the family watches in shock, with you being the only one not surprised. 

"Y-Your sword... I-It broke so easily..."

"I did hear [Name]'s powers were strong..."

"That ice sure is sturdy !"

"... Do you know what this mean, Ike ?"

"Huh ?"

"Your weapon was much stronger than mine. The sword I was using was on the verge of breaking. In other words, you could've won this fight. You do realize what I mean, don't you ?"

Ike does get what Greil's words mean and lowers his head as his father gives him his sword back. You also understand what Greil is saying, that Ike is still not strong enough and needs more training. Which is normal, in your opinion, Ike is still a child and he was against an adult, his father at that. So you can't help but think like Greil's words are too harsh. 

"However... Your attacks are much faster than before. You've done quite well compared to last time. You're growing stronger, Ike."

Now that is something you prefer. Ike's sad expression is suddenly replaced by a cheerful one, his blue eyes shining with happiness and pride. Elena gets up and throws her husband a teasing gaze.

"You could've said this first. You don't need to be so strict."

"I am being realistic."

"Dad is always so serious !"

Mist joins in the Greil's teasing session, as you approach the young boy still sitting on the grass. He seems still a bit shaken from his fight but no longer sad, and you take his hands to make sure he's alright. 

"Ike... Does it hurt anywhere ?"

"I'm fine... My grip on the sword simply wasn't strong enough. Father is right, I still need to train a lot harder."

"Your father also said you got stronger. You shouldn't be so hard on yourself, you're still young. One day, for sure, you'll be as strong as your father... Maybe even stronger than him. I'm sure of it."

"Aren't you a bit exaggerating here ?"

"No, I don't think so. I'm saying the truth."

You expected him to be a blushing mess by now, as usual when you say those kind of things. But instead he gets up and smile brightly, raising his sword toward the sky.

"Then I promise. I'll keep training and working hard until I become the strongest swordman in Tellius. I'll show you were right believing in me !"

"Eheh, you look like a hero ! Hey, Ike... Can I ask you something ?"

"Hmm ?"

Honestly, you don't know why you're going to say this. But your instinct is telling you to do so, and it has rarely if not never failed you so far. Maybe all of this would become meaningless once you are gone. Maybe those words would be forgotten once he grows up.

But at least, before your paths diverge and never cross again... You want to leave a proof that the bond between you has existed, even if shortly.

"If I need help... Will you be my knight in shining armor ?"

"Hmm ? Of course ! I promise !"

You smile, holding back the tears threatening to roll down on your cheeks. Even though this moment might be one of fleeting happiness...

You know that this promise, no matter what, will be held. 

"They fell asleep so fast... [Name]'s lullaby works well on them."

"They played all day, they must be exhausted..."

Elena places a blanket over your and her children's sleeping forms, a tender smile gracing her lips. You're sleeping in the middle of the bed, holding on each side one of the kid. The three of you look like actual siblings. 

"Don't they look like siblings ? Aren't they cute all three together ?"

"I'm not surprised hearing you say this, you've adopted [Name] like the children did..."

"Oh please, don't tell me you haven't gotten used to her as well."

She pinches her husband's cheek, who simply sighs in answer. Still, today has been a great day. Yet another peaceful day, far, far away from the horrors and danger they had once known. 

"Eheh..."

"What is it ?"

Elena is still smiling, but he does notice the changes in her expression. 

"I hope this happiness will last."

This is a prayer. A prayer they have made this whole time, hoping the Goddess would listen to them.

"... I hope it will."

He prays it does.

"Soren, aren't you eating too fast ? I'm really scared you might choke on the food one day..."

The boy shakes his head, continuing to chew and swallow the food you brought him at a worrying speed. Then again, he spent most of his life starving, so he must be scared that in one way or another the food might disappear and is devouring it before it can happen.

"No one noticed you for now ?... I see, that’s a good thing. I always make sure no one is following me but... If someone who looks dangerous comes, run away. Your safety matters most."

You've been visiting Soren as often as you could, trying not to awaken anyone's suspicions when you went into the forest. You've been able to understand each other thanks to the fact the boy understands others and knows how to write, despite being unable to speak. That's how you were able to communicate and tell each other your names.

He hasn't moved from his spot since the day you met, probably fearing the first person to ever treat him as a human would leave and forever disappear. But you would rather die than abandon this precious boy.

"Hmm ? I look happier than before ?"

He nods, writing with a wooden stick on the sand the following words.

'You always looked worried or sick. Or both sometimes.'

"I really am an open book to everyone... I have been scared of a tragedy striking but... Well, nothing happened. Which is a good thing, of course ! But I cannot help but feel uneasy..."

There is still no sign of a potential attack on the village, nor is there any weird event that has happened that could indicate it might happen soon. Your presence certainly changed some things, but not to the point it would prevent such a major part of the plot. So what are you missing ?

You feel like you've forgotten something important. 

'You are lost in your thoughts again.'

Soren pats your arm to bring you back to reality, showing you the words he wrote down and you sweatdrop. You hope he won't take after you and zone out as well in the future...

"Waah ! Sorry... This happens way too often... I'm an airhead."

'It's fine. Even if you are one, you are you. It's fine if you stay this way.'

"Ahahah, you are such a kind boy !"

You ruffle his hair fondly in response. His expression still lacks the usual brightness you would expect from a child, but you can notice his mouth forming a small smile. 

"I hope you can become friends with that child one day."

You've also been trying to tell him about Ike. As the first person who's met and helped Soren, you fear you might've taken the protagonist's place in his heart. Ike is a lovely boy so you have no doubt things between those two will go smoothly, but you prefer playing the matchmaker to make sure it happens.

"Ah ! I've forgotten the fruits ! I knew the bag was lighter than usual. Wait for me, I won't take long."

You give Soren a last headpat, get up and get off the dirt of your dress before quickly heading back toward the town. Today is market day, meaning even if you suddenly come out of nowhere, nobody will notice it since they're too busy. Now all you need to do is spot a familiar face. Or in this case, familiar hair. 

"Ah, Elena there you are ! I was searching for you."

The woman turns her gaze away from the products on the stalls and waves her hand, the other one holding Mist's. However, you notice that her other child is nowhere near them. 

"[Name], you forgot the fruits. That's what you came back for, isn't it ?"

"Mom knew you'd come here once you notice it."

"Am I that predictable...? Hmm ? Ike isn't with you ? I thought Greil was working today."

"He is. He simply wasn't interested in going with us, so he went to play on his own around the forest. I think he might also be searching for you."

Normally the news should mean nothing, but can't help but feel something extremely important will happen. No, you know it. Today is that day. 

"I'll go searching for him... I think I have an idea where he is."

If you are right, and today is indeed that day, then you don't even need to hurry or search everywhere. You just need to go to back to where you were just a few moments ago. You walk slowly on purpose toward your destination, not wishing to ruin the precious moment you hope is currently happening. 

The small parts of a conversation reaching your ears and the sound of a childish voice confirm it all.

"You sure are eating fast ! Are you sure you don't want to go home with me ? It's not too far ! Aah, you don't want to... Then I'll come back again tomorrow."

You see Ike from afar, the boy standing in front of Soren who's yet again devouring the food brought to him. He ate not so long ago, but you guess he's trying to make up for all the years he's been starving. He doesn't seem willing to follow the blue haired boy, but he doesn't look scared either. Ooooooooooh, you can feel it ! This is the beginning of the wonderful relationship between those two !

Yes, you kinda ship those two. In your defense, Ike wasn't interested in anyone of the opposite gender in game, and those two's interactions are cute as hell ! And Soren was a simp for Ike, nobody can tell you otherwise. 

"Ike, you were there all along."

"[Name] ?! What are you doing here ?!"

Ike jumps upon seeing you arrive all of a sudden, and soon notices Soren doesn't have the same reaction and simply watches you without any fear in his eyes. Well, you don't need to hide the fact you two know each other.

"Ike, there you are. Your mother told me you went into the forest so I thought I would find you here."

"You two... You two know each other ? Is that why you asked for food all of a sudden ?"

"That's right... He needed help, and I couldn't bring him with me, so I visited him everyday and brought him some food kept him company."

Ike looks back and forth between you and Soren. You expect him to be angry at you for not telling him about Soren or jealous the boy trusts you more. But instead, he smiles genuinely, and you feel your heart about to burst.

"Really ? Then we can visit him together everyday ! I won't tell anyone, I promise ! It'll be a secret just between the two of us !"

'My heart !!!!'

Ashera blesses this wholesome baby boy. You turn toward Soren in an attempt to hold yourself back from crushing Ike in your arms, and you see no signs of him being unhappy about it at all.

"Are you fine with it, Soren ? It's okay if you feel uneasy at first... But I promise Ike is a wonderful and very kind boy !"

The boy nods without any hesitation, and you ruffle his hair once more with a smile on your face. Ike is as happy as you are, and even Soren seems to be smiling a bit. Everything is perfect and pure happiness. 

Then why...

"It is getting late. Mother and Mist must be worried... I will be waiting for you at the village, [Name] ! See you tomorrow, Soren !"

Ike waves goodbye to Soren before heading back home. The black haired looks up to you, writing down to confirm what has already been made pretty obvious by this whole conversation. 

'Is he the boy you were telling me about ?'

"Yes... What do you think of him ?"

'At first, I was scared. He proposed me to go home with him, but I thought it was a trap... But he's very kind. He's kind, just like you.'

"I see... I'm glad..."

'Are you alright ? You look very pale.'

Everything is fine. Everything should be fine. There is no sign of an approaching disasters, no change in the plot that might affect Ike's future, no voice in your head telling you to do something without giving you any details... So everything, absolutely every single thing, should be fine.

And yet there's something. Something within you. A dark, frightening voice growing stronger inside of your head. There is something you missed. Something you haven't realized yet. 

There is something wrong.

"Soren... Can I please ask you something ?"

Soren remains speechless upon seeing your somber eyes. So much he cannot even answer your request, or voices his worries.

"If anything happens to me, please protect Ike."

Just as Ike said, it was getting late. So after saying goodbye to Soren, and later on Elena and the children, you left and went back to Zarzi. You lay on the bed of your room alone, Reyson and the rest having went back to Phoenicis a few weeks ago the day after Ike's birthday.

The moon is high in the sky, and all the lively chatters of the day are now gone, replaced by the sounds of the wind and the grasshopers. There is practically no one outside aside from a few sleepy guards watching the entrance. You too are feeling sleepy.

And yet you keep watching the ceiling of your room, the same worries plaguing your mind and refusing to leave you alone. 

'What did I miss... Nobody told me anything weird, I haven't seen anything... Shit, this is driving me mad...'

You wish you had someone to talk with, perhaps it would help. But the only one who knows you're from another world is the voice, who's as silent and useless as ever. You can scream with all your might, they never answer your words or pleas.

No advice, no warnings, nothing. You're all alone in this mess, in a foreign world unable to ask anyone for help, not even the one responsible for this. You're stuck in a child's body with a power that might easily kill you if you abuse of it, and even your memories cannot be fully trusted.  

You hate it all. 

"Ah, dammit... I'm too tired for this... I'll think about it tomorrow if I don't forget   "

Forget.

Forget.

Forget.

"Waah, is it an attack-?!!! Hey !! What are you doing outside-"

"I HAVE A BAD FEELING ABOUT THIS !!!!!"

"What- WAIT !!!"

You are now too far away to hear the confused soldier's screams.

No. 

No.

No no no no no no no no no no no     

Anything but that. Anything but that.

You run, run faster than you ever did, run even when out of breath, kept standing only by the adrenaline fueling your body and the horror that has invaded your mind. This is what your brain was trying to tell you this whole time, this is what you failed to remember. 

Ike and Soren met in the past, but the former couldn't remember. He never held the promise he made to Soren to come back the next day. Because he forgot. Ike forgot everything about the day he met Soren, the day that followed, and all the days of his childhood. 

Because the day that followed their meeting was the day of the attack. The day Elena died.

'Shit shit shit shit shit shit- How could I forget something like that ?!!!!'

That detail was revealed in Radiant Dawn, in a conversation between Ike and Soren during the endgame, obtained by meeting certain conditions. But it was heavily hinted in the dialogues between them. You let your guard down, and now the worst is about to-

'No. I'll make it in time. I'll definitely make it in time !!!'

It took one hour to go from Zarzi to the village when you were with Lethe and Mordecai. With your own feets, it'll take you three. But you're still going to make in time, you're still going to-

'You won't.'

You shake your head and ignore the negative thoughts passing through your mind. You keep running, getting up immediately after falling, not even taking a second to rest. You run despite all the thoughts and memories mixing in your mind, no matter how bad your legs and lungs hurt, no matter how many times your mind keep telling you that it is useless, useless, useless  

By the time you arrive there, the moon is gone and the sun has barely started rising. For the first time in hours, you stop yourself. And you let the sight upon your eyes be forever engraved in your mind.

Blood.

Blood everywhere. 

Bodies everywhere. Laying on the floor. Eyes lifeless and expressions of terror forever engraved in their faces. Lifeless corpses laying everywhere regardless of gender and age.

They're... the villagers. They were... the villagers. They're all, they're all... 

They're all dead. 

Bile rises in the back of your throat, and you shake your head in denial. Even if they were cruel to Soren, even if you never got to know them, even if you've come to hate them... They were...

They were still people. They were still humans.

You close your eyes, holding the tears back and you start running again. You can't save them anymore. It's too late to change anything. 

But there's still someone you can save.

You can still save Elena. 

'It's useless.'

There is still time left. 

'It's useless.'

The assassins must've attacked when the night was ending. The bodies are fresh. There must be some time left.

'It's useless.'

You can save her. You must save her.

'It's useless, useless useless useless useless-'

You will save Elena. 

'It's too late.'

*SLASH !!!*

It's as if time stops. Your body freezes, not daring to move from a single centimeter. You can't move, and you can't hear anything. 

Anything but the sound of flesh being pierced by a sword. Blood droplets slowly fall to the ground from the tip of the sword. A sword held by a man with crazed eyes holding a medallion, a man you know all too well.

A man piercing with his sword a woman with blue hair reaching her hand toward the medallion you know all too well. The woman you were desperately trying to save.

Elena. 

Elena. 

"ELENA !!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Two blue pair of eyes widen and turn toward you, one filled with shock and worry, the other with nothing but madness and bloodlust. Elena's hand wavers, barely brushing with her fingers the medallion before losing strength. 

Oh no.

Greil's sword moves dangerously, threatening to come out of Elena's bleeding body at any moment. His frightening eyes fixes you... before moving to a much younger, much shorter boy standing behind him.

Ike.

No. Please. Not that. 

Elena's body is giving up on her, her hand no longer having enough strength to grab the medallion. Greil's attention is solely fixed on his son, frozen like a statue and staring at him in pure disbelief and horror. 

What have you done ?

Your scream not only prevented Elena from taking the medallion out of Greil's hand, it also woke Ike up and brought him here. At this rate... If things keep going on this way...

Both Elena and Ike will die.

You have to do something, anything.

'Sing.'

You need to do something to stop Greil and bring him back to his senses, you need to save Ike and Elena, you need to take the medallion away-

'Sing.'

Using your power might hurt Elena in the process, but from where you are, you won't reach Ike in time if his father attacks him, attracting his attention might be the best way but you're not sure you'll be able to-

'Sing.'

'BUT SHUT UP, I DON'T HAVE THE TIME TO DO WHATEVER BULLSHIT YOU WANT, AT THIS RATE-'

'Sing. It's the only way. You have promised.'

Your body goes numb.

It's as if your spirit is being forced out of your body. Your hands and legs start moving on their own and against your will, and before you can even realize it, your mouth is open and letting out words.

~ The shadow land I've stepped into isn't a paradise by any stretch ~

You can't tell where this song comes from, the words are coming out of their own. For the first time, Greil stops in his movements, no longer watching Ike and instead staring at you. You can tell : his eyes are no longer the same. He's...

He's reacting to the song.

~ And there's not even a bit of certainty in these rusty old remedies ~

His eyes waver, and so does his hands. The madness slowly fades away from his gaze.

~ But even so, I go up the river ~

~ And merely cling onto this ladder ~

Elena realized it as well. The hand that had lost its strength stops falling.

~ The flame lit even in my tears ~

Using all the forces she has left, she reaches toward the medallion. And she succeeds taking it.

~ Is my one sign, my one light ~

She falls, and so does Greil who is holding her limp body. 

"E-Elena... W-What... W-What have I..."

"It... wasn't... your fault... I... forgive you..."

He too falls, eyes closed.

You follow next.

You can only see red. Red everywhere. It's warm and wet around you, like you are in hot water. You're bathing in a huge pool of red liquid. Is this all...

Is this all your blood ?

You don't understand. Your brain has grown too weak to process what is happening to you. It's like your entire body is dying, but can't even realize it. You don't hear any voice anymore. You don't feel anything anymore. Only one thing remains important for your broken mind.

"Ele... na..."

Unable to move your legs, you can only use your right arm to slowly and painfully drag yourself on the floor. 

"Ele... na..."

Your throat is too damaged to pronounce any words but that name. The name of the person you were trying to save.

"Ele... na..."

The person you've come to cherish so dearly.

"Elena..."

After what feels like an eternity of pain, your hand finally reaches hers. You hold as strongly as you can, trying to convey what you can no longer say with words.

'Please, don't die.'

She watches your hand, slightly moving her neck to meet your gaze. She's smiling. She's smiling like she always does. She's smiling, and yet crying. Tears comes out of the kind blue eyes of this people you've come to love. 

This person you couldn't save.

"It's... okay... You've... tried... It's not... your fault..."

The light in her gaze disappears, a veil like broken glass falling upon those eyes once so bright and filled with warmth. The hand you hold is now limp and cold. 

And even your broken mind cannot deny it anymore. 

You have failed.

Chapter Text

Snow, snow, snow. The snow is engulfing you.

It's so cold. So very cold. Your body aches so badly you can no longer move. The wind of the storm feels like blades that lacerates your body, and the sound of it renders you deaf to any other noise. Your limbs are slowly going numb, unable to withstand the aching cold. You can't do anything, aside from suffering and rehash the past.

It is a proper punishment for your sin, you guess. A punishment for your stupidity and your cowardice that led to her death. It is your weakness, your failure that ultimately led to her demise.

You failed them all.

You failed her. 

You should've been the one to die instead, the one who should've sacrificed herself for her to live. Now you must pay with your life, for your sins to be forgiven. You must remain in this cold storm, let it slowly kill you. Maybe then, you'll be able to forgive yourself. 

"No. You cannot die."

"..."

"You must live. You must keep moving forward."

"... Do me a favor. Shut it. You only talk to me when it's already too late."

It turns silent for a moment, as if taken apart and hurt by your words. You almost feel guilty, but truth to be told, you no longer care. Not anymore. And yet, it keeps going, like you said nothing. Perhaps does it recognize the truth of your words, or perhaps it cares not how harsh you can be toward it. 

"You cannot die. You must live. Not only for your sake or mine. For their sake . For the sake of this world."

"I let her die. I'm useless... Had I realised sooner and tried harder, maybe then she wouldn't have died. I can't tell anyone the truth, and I can't save anyone..."

"You can... You've saved me. Your mere presence, your mere existence    "

Beyond the cold darkness, you start seeing something. A light you don't recognize, but that is calling for you. A light that may just be an illusion, just a vain hope, but is bringing your cold body warmth. The storm weakens for a moment, and the light becomes so dazzling you close your eyes.

The light of a single white star, at the end of the cruel winter storm.

"You are the only one that saved me from despair. You have to live."

"... ive..."

"..."

"Live..."

"..."

"You must live. I beg you, you must open your eyes."

Your vision is blurry. Above you, you see a figure with long hair. You cannot see their face, only hear their voice, begging you to open your eyes. You don't want to, yet you can't help but listen and obey.

The figure's face slowly becomes more visible to you. Their features are somewhat androgynous, but you are still able to tell the person is a man of pale complexion. He's as beautiful as an angel, watching you with gentle and worried green bluish eyes. His hair are long, silky and black with a greenish tint to it, and the end of it are tied by a red ribbon. His attire consists of a white robe with golden, purple and red parts to it.

You recognize him, you know well who he is. A man with great importance who, despite having first been introduced as a simple monk in the game, turned out to be one of the most powerful and influencial man of Tellius. 

The Prime Minister of Begnion and Duke of Persis, Sephiran. 

His eyes widen upon meeting yours, and you see the brightest smile you've ever seen form on his face. You almost feel bad for not even being able to move a single inch of your face to smile back.

"Aaaah... Finally. After all this time... The Goddess finally answered my prayers..."

He's not alone. Behind him you see an imposing man, perhaps the size of Tibarn with short, well brushed dark blue hair and piercing green eyes. He's clad in the crimson armor of Begnion soldiers and his sword is still attached to his waist. You don't think he appeared much in Path of Radiance, but if you remember correctly his name is... Zelgius. Begnion's greatest general, Zelgius. 

He doesn't seem to mind you much attention, keeping his head low until he hears Sephiran's voice. He doesn't seem to share the same joy as the former seeing you awake, but does look extremely shocked. He must have believed you would never wake up from your coma.

"She woke up ?"

You are as confused as he seems to be, but for different reasons. You don't understand what is happening, what you are doing here- Why are you in Begnion ?

Where is Greil, where are Ike and Mist ? Where are Tibarn and Reyson ? Janaff and Ulki and Lotz ? King Caineghis and Giffca and Ranulf and Soren ? And Mordecai and Lethe ?

Where is-

"ELE-"

"Child no !!!"

"BLEERGH !!!"

Your body makes you pay for your reckless moves. The pain is worse than when you first used your power. Worse than all the times you've woken up. The same excrutiating pain that took over your body that day. 

The amount of blood you just threw up must be important because Sephiran looks absolutely panicked. Even Zelgius seems to be ready to get a healer before even hearing his master's order. 

"Zelgius, fetch a physician now !!"

"Yes !"

"W-Wait..."

They both stop and turn toward you when you grab Sephiran's robe with your bloodied hand. You breath heavily, the words refusing to come out in fear of the answer. But you have to know.

You must.

"Ele... Elena... What happened... to Elena ?"

They both go silent.

Zelgius turns his gaze away from yours, not wishing to see your reaction. Sephiran watches you with a heartbroken expression. You wish you had enough strength to hide your ears. Because you already know what he will tell you.

"Child... If Elena... Is a woman with blue hair... Then... I am so sorry. She's dead."

You nearly want to laugh. 

You don't even know why you've asked to begin with. You knew the truth from the beginning. Yet you desperately kept trying to hold unto the vain, cruel and fake hope that maybe, just maybe, you had changed something. That your efforts amounted to something. That it had saved Elena.

Even though you saw it all. You saw Greil's sword pierce her body. You saw her bleeding out. You saw her fall on the ground, holding the bloodied medallion. And you saw it.

You saw the light in her eyes die, and the last smile she gave you. The kind and beautiful smile she always gave to everyone, meant to pass down one last message to you.

'It's ok, you've tried. It is not your fault.'

It is. It is your fault. You let Elena die. You've failed her.

You don't have the strength to scream.

You don't have the strength to cry.

You merely wish to be dead. But this world doesn't allow you to.

"... Why am I not dead yet ?"

None of the men in the room answers or tries to soothe your pain, and for that you're grateful. You know you wouldn't have been able to hold back from lashing out at them. Sephiran merely gets up from his chair, giving you one last glance before leaving along with Zelgius.

"... A physician will come soon to treat you. Take all your time to have some rest and change your clothes... Then we will discuss a bit if you don't mind."

You don't answer anything nor do you even spare them a glance. You don't have the strength nor the will to say something or even move anyway . You merely let your head fall, your gaze lost in the void, empty as your very being.

Once again, you come to wish for your death, for a way to atone for your sins, for anything that might make up for your mistake. But no, there is none. In the end, your fears came to become true.

You're now broken beyond repair.

"... Wouldn't it be better to have her memories erased ?"

The words comes out in an attempt to break the deafening silence that has settled in the corridors of the Mainal Cathedral. Sephiran stops in his steps and shoots Zelgius a glance. The man is staring at the room you're resting in with faint worry in his gaze.

"I fear she might make an attempt on her own life... The trauma of failing to save her friend and watching her die is much too great of a burden for a child like her, I believe. After all those efforts you've made to save her, erasing her memories would be the surest way to ensure they won't have been made in vain." 

"... No. Erasing her memories... wouldn't work. Her mind is too different from a child's, it would notice the inconsistencies in her memories. And more importantly... It would bring her but a momentary solace. And the instant she remembers... The same despair will take her."

He takes a deep breath, his gaze moving from the room to his friend. 

"She must mourn her friend. Only then will her wounds heal with time. If possible... I wish for the both of you to become friends. I believe it will help her. And you as well."

"Friends...? Help us both...?"

"Yes."

"... Sephiran. Who is she ?"

The man doesn't react to his friend's question, neither showing shock or anger. So Zelgius continues, trying to remain polite to his master. 

"You wouldn't have went so far as to lie to the Apostle herself and the senators if she wasn't important to you in some way. And you seem to know her. So who is she ? And why are you protecting her ?"

"... For a very simple reason."

"Huh ?"

Sephiran merely smiles, turning his gaze and watching the horizon with something in his eyes Zelgius can't truly describe. Something akin to... nostalgia, sadness and regret.

"... I happen to have made a promise."

"Prime Minister Sephiran, General Zelgius, please enter."

"..."

You don't say anything at Sephiran and Zelgius coming in the room. You don't even look at them. You feel the gaze of the healer that has just treated you on your silent, still form, and you hear him whisper something to the two men before leaving. You only grasp the words 'worrying' and 'rest'.

You don't want rest.

You want to go back to Gallia. You have to let Reyson and everyone know you're alive- even if you wish you weren't- and safe. You have to know if Greil and Ike and Mist are safe- Ike saw it all, he saw it all because of you- and you have to apologize because it's your fault, it's all your fault that Elena-

"Child. Can you hear me ?"

You don't say a word. You simply move your gaze toward Sephiran, sitting right in front of you. He's smiling kindly, despite the complete lack of reaction, of emotion or even of gratitude in your eyes.

Because deep down you wish he had come too late and failed to save you.

"I... Am Sephiran. I am the Prime Minister of Begnion, and Duke of Persis. And here is a trusted friend of mine, Zelgius. I... Wish we could've met under different circumstances. However... I hope we will be able to understand and sympathize with each others."

You don't know why he wants to have this conversation. You don't want to become friends with those two or have some nice chat- You just want to leave. But your limbs are refusing to listen to your will (they're thin, way too thin, why ?), and you're stuck in this bed like a lifeless doll with nothing left but the guilt devouring you from the inside to make you feel alive. 

And so, not to add more guilt to yourself, you finally open your mouth and give your savior your name.

"... I'm [Name]. [Name] Makirié [Last Name]. Please... I wish to leave... I must."

"... I fear I cannot let you. I'm sorry."

This time you do actually lash out at Sephiran. To hell the fact he saved your life, you didn't want it to be saved, you didn't want him to save yours. You succeed moving your aching and squeletic body enough to fully face him, glaring murderously as if he isn't able to have you executed for just looking at him wrong.

"I don't care about what you say, I'm leaving and don't even try stopping me !!"

"Please stop !!"

You don't listen as you try getting up, and you soon come to regret it.

Your body has not only completely given up on you, it has turned against you. You feel your limbs giving up on you and once again refusing to move as you fall miserably, held up only by Sephiran's arms. Your innards rise in your throat until you can't hold them back and spit them out, staining his robes. 

It's gruesome, to see how much blood is falling from your mouth. It's painful, agonizing even to feel like your insides are being torn apart, crushed and burnt to a crisp. 

And yet, even so, you're still not dying. This world still refuses to let you be at peace, as if punishing you for your mere presence, your mere existence that interferes with its fate. Even though you've never asked for any of this. Even though you've only wished to save her and then return home.

"T-The healer... just treated me... So why..."

Sephiran is more occupied trying to get you back in the bed and having Zelgius call for more healers to answer you. So you repeat yourself, this time more insistently.

"What... Is happening to me...?"

You don't like the look on Begnion Prime Minister's face, you definitely don't. For a second he looks away, focusing on having you lay on the bed, perhaps to avoid you falling again from the shock of whatever news he has to announce you, before taking a deep breath and asking one question.

"... Do you know what month it is ?"

"... What ?"

Why is he asking ? You've probably been lying in this bed for weeks.