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Chapter Text

"When I saw your father’s axe, I was convinced that I had to take it to you. I felt that’s what your father would have wanted,"

Ike mulled over the Lion King's words as he strode alongside the camp. The bitter memories of his father's death washed over him at the moment but were quick to vanish as hope and resolve surfaced to spin the wheels of his vigor as he brandished the mighty black and gold axe Greil once wielded.

Urvan.

It was indeed a sight to behold. A simple brown hilt placed itself below as intricately designed gold pieces decorated the striking, massive black blade that shone under the sunlight.

Ike had only recently learned to wield axes, courtesy of Titania and Boyd teaching him. But he still couldn't consider himself an expert, and definitely not worthy of his father's weapon yet.

So he decided to bestow it to someone else.

Haar popped into his mind at first. The Dracoknight had been a massive boon in their campaign against Begnion. A lazy man he also was, always taking opportunities to nap in places he deemed fit for napping, he even saw his wyvern recently adapting to his master's habits as well, which brought an amusing incident that one time where Mia and Mist complained about the two of them napping, unknowingly blocking pathways inside the camp. They didn't wake up for some reason, despite the multiple bonks Mia did with her sword's hilt, so It took the hefty force of him, Gatrie, Boyd, Titania, Oscar, Brom, Nephenee, and a few Tiger Laguz around to lift his wyvern, Cormag, to the side While Shinon and Rolf dragged Haar to a pole and had Aimee splash some water on his face.

Though his shortcomings were apparent, all was forgiven the moment he was deployed to battle.

No one was exempt from his wrath. Not a single Begnion soldier walked out alive the moment they faced him. Haar would swoop down and cleave a well-guarded soldier effortlessly. He was that good. Ike would sometimes see the eye-patched man willingly throw himself at battalions of Begnion Dracoknights. If he didn't know any better, he'd assume he had a grudge against them or something, which would make sense given his background.

But he held off from that decision, as while he was a close friend, Haar would definitely deny the proposition and recommend it to someone closer to him, which he subconsciously agreed upon.

Next was Titania. He had brought up the question during the Mad King's war, and as he quoted, "Titania, if you were given the chance to wield Urvan, would you?"

Titania gave a hearty laugh before denying the offer. She said along the lines of the weapon being too heavy for her and would impede her movement with her horse. And while she could fight without her mount, she'd perform way worse and told him to give it to someone else.

Knowing how she had racked up the highest kill count in the army three years ago, it was better to heed the words of the Paladin herself.

Ike then considered that Nolan guy from Micaiah's team, but the sight of the massive, golden axe that potentially rivaled Urvan on his hand dissuaded him from the thought, and also the fact that he was a stranger to him.

Welp, there was only one person left, and in hindsight, even Greil would consider him worthy of his weapon.

"Boyd!"

"Yes, Ike?"

"Here,"

Ike settled Urvan on the ground with a crash, prompting Boyd to yelp out of shock.

"By the goddess Ike! Couldn't you have at least warmed up to that?" Boyd exclaimed.

"Sorry, I was lost in my thoughts, but never mind that," Ike apologized.

"Hm, ok," Boyd said as he readjusted his seat on the crate he sat on, "So what's this about?"

"It's yours,"

Boyd blinked, "...What?!"

"Urvan, take it,"

"Why?

"Because I said so,"

"But it's Greil's weapon! It's effectively yours as far as I'm concerned, heck, why not Titania?" Boyd scratched his head.

"Yes, but I also know my father would consider you worthy of Urvan," Ike reassured.

"What makes you say that?!" Boyd retorted.

"First, I'm your boss. Second, Titania is your second boss. Third, Soren is your third boss, and fourth, I know my father would be proud and glad his bloodline would continue in another path," Ike explained, smiling at the last statement.

"Huh?! That's unfair! And what do you mean by continuing his bloodline?!" Boyd stood up fuming.

Ike raised a brow, grinning, "Hm, hey Boyd. What do bees make when they get enough nectar from flowers?"

"..."

"..."

"..."

"...Honey?"

Mist shouted from afar, "Yes, Boyd?"

Boyd's eyes widened as Ike started to leave, "What the- hey get back here, Ike!"

Mist strode into the scene, puzzled about her mentioned name, her brother walking away, and the hulking Reaver covering his face in shame.

"Boyd, what was that about?"

!Acquired Urvan!

Chapter Text

The scent of steel and idle chatter filled the camp as the army bustled about. Despite the comforting noise, an eerie aura rode along with it. To know that it was you and only you making that noise was a terrifying thought, not helped by the petrified citizens of Begnion surrounding their camp. But that one thing that bothered everyone was that incomprehensible waft of holy power penetrating their souls. It might have been an effect of being so close to the Tower of Guidance, but that didn't deter everyone from preparing their assault on the massive construct to save the entire content from Judgement.

Sothe strolled along the tents, crates of weapons, and the sight of Marcia and Calil berating Makalov for what he assumed was another gambling problem.

He was greeted by Elincia and an unknown man he had never met before as he turned to his right. A vivid memory played in his head as he remembered guarding the once-Princess now-Queen below the deck from an attack against pirating ravens. He remembered prodding some questions toward her, revealing an uncle who died from Ashnard.

Sothe looked at the man again and silently clicked the connections in his head. He waved back and resumed his stroll, hoping to find a place for some peace, and mind.

After another set of amusing sceneries played as he walked, with Zihark patting a cheery Ilyana on the head after giving her food, and the group of Skrimir, Lyre, Lethe, and Ranulf cowered back in their laguz forms as Heather presented a toy mouse in front of them.

Sothe would eventually find the place he was looking for, a back alley on a random street filled with the petrified people of Begnion.

It was better than nothing, he suppose.

Small, scurrying footsteps rang past Sothe, alerting him. He grabbed his Baselard and assumed a stance.

"Whoever is there, show yourself,"

A shadow blinked beside him, prompting Sothe to whiff a stab.

Sothe warily looked around before closing his eyes and taking a calm breath.

A shuffle of the wind and Sothe immediately executed a backflip, a leg extended enough to kick a man on his wrist as he dropped down from a roof. A blade clanged on the ground, rendering his pursuer's weapon null.

"Impressive. No one has ever done that to me," The man said as he grasped his wrist.

Sothe's eyes widened at the familiar voice, "V-Volke?! Goddess, don't sneak up on me like that!"

"Fair enough, but I wanted to see if you haven't lost your edge," Volke exclaimed as he picked up the Stilleto on the pavement.

"I've always been at edge, being Micaiah's right hand isn't an easy job you know?"

Volke chuckled, "How admirable,"

Sothe ignored the comment, "Anyways, how've you been?"

"Good enough..."

"Good enough?" Sothe asked, raising a brow.

"Yeah, been working under Count Fayre for the past year or so. He promised me a hefty sum for my efforts," The assassin said, leaning on a wall.

Sothe did the same, "Same old, same old then?"

Volke nodded, "Pretty much. You?"

"After the war, I set off for Daein to find Micaiah. We then met in the same alley where she found me years ago. From then on we swore to never leave each other,"

Volke raised an amusing eyebrow.

"Then a year after that, the Begnion soldiers posted in Daein began abusing their power against the citizens. With no king in charge, who was to stop them?"

Volke resumed listening.

"Micaiah and I took up arms and started fighting back. We then found Nolan and his group doing the same and asked us to join their cause, forming the Dawn Brigade. We fought for another year or so till it got especially worse when their General brought heat on us, forcing us to flee in the desert,"

"We then found the supposed lost child of Ashnard and Almedha, Pelleas, and a few others like Jill, Zihark, and Tauroneo fighting for the prince. Also, did you know Almedha was a Black Dragon?"

"Yes, keep going,"

Sothe narrowed his eyes out of suspicion,"...Alright then. To get back on track, we started a campaign to take back Daein, led by our ever-so-brilliant tactician...Izuka,"

"Pah, spare me from hearing that name. I can't stand looking at his huge forehead," Volke reeled in disgust.

"Ditto," Sothe shook his head, "Anyway, we were successful in taking back Nevassa, killed their General, and crowned Pelleas as king,"

"We thought we could recover and rebuild Daein, but life had a way of kicking you down as you go up. We were met with the news that we were allied with Begnion and took up arms against the Laguz Army. I voiced out my concerns, but where Micaiah goes, I go, so I had no choice,"

"Do you know how horrifying fighting actual trained Laguz soldiers is? I thought the Feral Ones was a taste of how to fight laguz, but by Ashera, those ones were a different beast!"

Volke then grabbed a random barrel and sat down.

"But we pushed through, eventually meeting Ike and the Greil Mercenaries. I couldn't bring myself to fight them, but I had to. We were pushed back as the tides shifted in their favor, cornering us into a fortress with the last remnants of the Daein army. Did you know Tibarn dropped me off a cliff to prove a point? Good thing Ulki was there to save me,"

"We eventually had to pull back again. The Goldoan prince and Queen Elincia had to get involved, but we continued the war because of that stupid Blood Pact Pelleas signed up for with Lekain.

Sothe closed his eyes and balled up his fists, "If I get my hands on him, I swear. The things I'd do to mutilate his body,"

The boy coughed, continuing his story, "Eventually, the fighting went bad to the point where Lehran's medallion was close to unsealing Yune. I was there when the Galdr of Release was sung, awakening Yune and Ashera, who turned everyone in Tellius to stone except for us special individuals,"

"Yune asked us to split in three to get here to Sienne, fought some piss-colored Begnion soldiers who might be zombies at this point? Leading us to where we currently stand,"

Volke smiled, "You know I didn't really ask for your life story, kid. But thanks for sharing regardless,"

"Tch, what do you want anyway," Sothe said, crossing his arms.

"To teach you,"

"You want to kill that bastard Lekain, right? I could teach you how," Volke's eyes suddenly darkened, "The right way,"

Sothe felt chills on his spine, almost as if he was on the other end of being one stab away from assassination.

Ah, so this was how it felt.

"What do you mean?"

"The right way of killing people," Volke said as he stood up.

"But I already do? I've got plenty of blood on my hands already,"

Volke shook his head "Not like that, everyone can do that. What I meant is killing people,"

To further explain what he meant, Volke grabbed a sack from his pocket and threw it in the air. Not even a second passed, and the empty bag was sliced in half, leaving Sothe flabbergasted and open for Volke to rush behind him, grab his neck, and point his Stilleto at his throat.

"That's how. One shot, one kill,"

Sothe eyed the dagger, "Sheesh, and I thought I was fast,"

The two broke off, Sothe grasping a wall as he rubbed his neck.

"You know, when we were in the war, I was never really a killer. I took some lives, but I was never really the one to go out there and earn a kill myself, you know? But I had to survive if I wanted to see Micaiah again, so I kind of watched how you fight and tried copying your moves when I was alone," Sothe exclaimed.

"I noticed,"

Sothe huffed, "Of course you were. Anyway, when I was seriously fighting in Daein. I had to incorporate a more defensive style coming from what I copied from you. But when I really got to it, when the killing intent really came in. I tried doing what you did, but I was always one step short of truly eliminating someone in one strike. Heh, in hindsight, I should have asked you to train me, huh?

Volke crossed his arms, "I would have asked you for some money if you did,"

"...Nevermind,"

Volke spun his Stiletto, "So, do you really want to know how? Its free of charge,"

Sothe grasped the Baselard in his hand, gazing at the dagger as flashing images of Micaiah, Nolan, Edward, Leonardo, and everyone filled his mind. Renewed vigor and resolve filled his heart.

He spun the knife the same way Volke did.

"Teach me,"

Volke chuckled, "Very well then,"

!Acquired Lethality!

!Strength cap increased to 32!

Chapter Text

The attack was sudden.

One moment, they were gearing up for their fight on the tower, but the next thing they knew, swarms of Ashera's Disciples of Order began appearing in the crowd, causing panic and disarray among the army.

They were quick to take arms. Swords, lances, axes, and magic clashed violently and recklessly as everyone fought tooth and nail to drive off the threat.

Gatrie bashed some poor swordsmen with his massive shield, giving Shinon the opening to pluck all three of them with three well-placed arrows through their necks.

A group of Dracoknights descended from above for a strike only to be met by a guttural warcry from Tauroneo as he halted their axes with his shield, protecting Calil and Ilyana behind him. The two mages wasted no time casting an Elthunder down on the riders, frying them to death.

Stefan and Edward worked in the more secluded parts of the camp, slashing down a Warrior they encountered. They would be met by Volke and Sothe, who seemingly went off somewhere before the debacle. They understood the assignment and immediately got to work, with Volke cutting down a nearby Sage and Sothe bolting off towards Micaiah.

Down at the center, the army's resident horse riders formed a massive trap, circling the enemies inside that prevented any escape.

Titania hacked a General with her axe, while Oscar ziplined through the enemies with a Killer Lance, downing four soldiers in one stride. Makalov, for all his incompetencies, showed no slack as he fended off two Paladins on his own with a Steel Blade, allowing an opening for Astrid and Keiran to throw an arrow and a Hand-Axe on their backs.

The skies were not exempt from the battle either. Sigrun and Tanith crossed their lances to block a strike from a Dracoknight. They broke off the stalemate in their favor and quickly stabbed the soldier in the chest. Ulki transformed in time as he evaded four speeding Falcon Knights. He then caught a fifth one with his talons and wasted no time tearing the rider to pieces.

The rest of the knights were picked off by either Janaff and Vika divebombing from the sky or Nealuchi messily jabbing his beak to earn a messy kill.

The fighting eventually quelled as they cleaned up the initial wave. Expectations of another swarm were apparent, so the most reasonable course of action is to act now and get in the tower to finish this war, once and for all.

Which began with an announcement from Yune.

"Everyone, listen!" Yune shouted, spurring everyone to gather around her. A few remarks were made regarding Micaiah's new look.

"Ashera's soldiers won't stop coming even if we drive them off, so we need to get inside now!"

Everyone nodded in approval.

"I will need sixteen of you. The two dragons should come, and at least one heron- Oh! And Sothe and Leonardo, Micaiah's asking for both of you if you don't mind?"

The blonde Marksman nodded, "I won't disappoint you, Micaiah,"

Sothe grinned as he gave her a thumbs up, "You know I won't ever leave your side,"

A light blush appeared on Yune's cheeks but she shook it off immediately, "Ike, I trust you'll be able to pick the best of the best?"

Ike stabbed the ground with Ragnell, "You bet,"

"Soren! Boyd! Mist! Mia! To me!"

"Hm, I can never imagine leaving your side, so I'll do my best, Ike," Soren exclaimed; his Rexcalibur prepared in hand.

"Hell yeah! I can finally swing this bad boy!" Boyd cheered as he swung Urvan.

"And earlier you were keen on refusing to take it," Mist sighed with a smile, "What am I going to do with you, my idiot,"

"Boss! Can I at least take Rhys with me, pretty please?" Mia stated with clasped hands and puppy eyes, earning a few knowing looks across the camp.

Rhys visibly dropped a bead of sweat, "M-Mia, I don't think that's-"

Ike raised a brow, "Yune?"

Yune thought for a bit before shrugging, "Sure, bring her lover in,"

Mia was taken aback, "Hey! We're not-"

"Yeah, whatever you say kiddo," Stefan said as he shoved Rhys into Mia's arms.

The swordswoman's eyes lit up, unceremoniously dropping the healer on the ground "Stefan! It's been a while. I missed our sparring sessions ya know?"

"Same here," Stefan replied, "Listen, I have a hunch the fight ahead is a steep hill, so I'm asking you to trade that Silver Sword of yours with this,"

The desert warrior brandished his prized sword, the Vague Katti.

As Rhys was about to stand, he was shoved on the ground again as Mia jumped in joy.

"Really?! You're letting me borrow your sword again?!"

"Yep, use it well,"

Mia gave her sword and grabbed the sacred blade eagerly.

"THANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOU!"

The blue-haired Trueblade grabbed Rhys and carried him to the entrance, bridal-style.

"C'mon Rhys! Let's take down some Begnion assholes, and you're gonna help me with that!"

Rhys responded with a pained moan.

!Acquired Vague Katti!

Ike gazed among the crowd and locked eyes with a certain pegasus-riding Queen.

"Queen Elincia, you up for the task?"

"I'd be happy to assist...General," Elincia teased.

Ike scratched his head as he felt his cheeks warm up but got back on track immediately, "Nephenee, I'm going to need you to come and protect her, alright?"

The Lancer nodded, "Don't worry, Queen Elincia. I'll stick by your side,"

"Thank you, Nephenee," Elincia thanked the woman with clasped hands.

The Crimean retainers strode in, circling the queen with varied expressions and teasing assertions.

Bastian spoke first, "Ah, I'm quite jealous to not be by her Majesty's side, but I know our queen is a fierce fighter of her own, so this Count bids you all the fortune we have,"

"In a more palatable term, go give them a "sound trashing" my queen," Lucia exclaimed with a giggle.

Elincia covered her blushing face, "Please don't remind me of that,"

"Ah, but how will General Ike notice you if you fail to down ten men in one go?" Geoffrey exclaimed, joining in on the teasing.

Brom let out a hearty chuckle, "Oh, I'm sure General Ike sees her more than just being a good fighter... though it will certainly help,"

They all erupted into laughter, much to their Queen's chagrin.

"To be serious, please be careful. Crimea would be saddened if they were to lose her greatest gift," Lucia exclaimed, grasping her queen's palm.

"Her most gorgeous flower," Bastian gently affirmed a hand on her shoulder.

"And her paragon of hope," Geoffrey kneeled.

Elincia's eyes started to tear up, which lead to a massive group hug, instigated by Brom, as he caught all five of them between his hulking arms.

The green-haired queen wiped her tears, "Everyone, thank you, for everything,"

!Acquired 300 EXP!

Elincia joined the rest of the group at the entrance, where she was met with open arms by her old friends, especially Mist.

Nephenee was about to join as well but a hand firmly grasped her arm, halting her. She turned around and saw Geoffrey with a stern yet concerned look in his eyes.

"Neph...,"

"G-Geoffrey?"

He brought her closer, their lips merely inches away from touching. Geoffrey opened her palm and placed a blue-coated weapon between.

"Your Brave Lance? But its-"

The Crimean Knight closed her hand, "Yours, for now. I know Ashera won't hold back regarding the strength of her soldiers, and I know you are plenty capable on the battlefield by yourself. But please, take it. I don't think I can live without at least imparting something from me to you before you go,"

Geoffrey wrapped an arm around her waist.

"Three years ago, you entered my life. I don't want to lose you,"

Geoffrey leaned closer.

"Please, take care of the queen, and yourself,"

Closer.

"I love you, Nephenee,"

He brushed her helmet off, exposing her flowing emerald locks and captivating face for everyone to see. Nephenee would normally throw a fit about being exposed like that, but when Geoffrey cupped her chin and leaned in for a kiss, which she gladly reciprocated, she decided she didn't care about any of that for now.

Unbeknownst to them. Calill squealed ecstatically as she shook the still, slack-jawed Lucia beside her. Bastian merely raised a brow and nodded in approval.

"Finally, my efforts from three years ago paid off!" Calill beamed.

!Acquired Brave Lance!

!Str +5!

Ike surveyed the anxious yet busy crowd, looking for more combatants. A man suddenly brushed beside him, breaking his train of thought.

"Ah, Lord Renning-"

"Don't be so tense, my boy. I'll have you know you have my blessings,"

With that, he left, leaving a dumbfounded Ike in the process.

!Acquired blessings from Elincia's uncle!

An ominous chime echoed across the city. A tight vibration emanated through everyone, settling an unease across the army.

"No," Yune's eyes widened, "Everyone, at arms!"

Ike scoffed. Not wasting time, he called for the last few units to go with them.

"Caineghis! Tibarn! Naesala! Reyson! No time, let's go!"

As if on cue, squads of Begnion soldiers began swarming the camp once again, forcing everyone to split and deal with their invaders.

"I'll take charge of the group while you're gone. Go!" Titania ordered. She then brusquely grabbed Shinon and mounted her horse, settling the Marksman on the back.

"I ride, you shoot,"

Shinon gulped, "Yes mom- Ma'am!"

"HYAH!" Titania whipped the reigns of her horse and rushed into battle.

With a grunt, Ike grabbed Ragnell, and rushed toward the entrance.

"Wait, please. Let me go with you. I need to know... the truth,"

Ike halted in his tracks as the familiar voice of the Apostle called out.

Sanaki, teary-eyed and desperate, clung to the mercenary's arms, silently pleading to grant her wishes.

Ike knew very well how much the girl needed this, but just to be sure, he confided her two mother figures.

"Sigrun? Tanith?" Ike inquired.

"We'd usually object but..." Sigrun closed her eyes in anxiety. Tanith comforted the knight with an assuring hand on her shoulder.

"But she's right, the Apos- Sanaki needs this," Tanith stated.

Sigrun kneeled in front of the purple-haired girl and presented a ring.

"Remember when you accidentally called me mother when you were little? You were so flustered and embarrassed you ran away and didn't speak to me for three weeks. But I couldn't help but be so moved, grateful even. It was the one time I forgot my duty to you as a Holy Guard and naively wished to be more than your assigned protector. I went to town and bought you a present for your upcoming 10th birthday, though my excitement washed away the moment I started remembering my place. I never had the chance or the courage to give it you but I always kept the gift with me, to remind myself of why I devoted my life for you.

The knight wiped her watery eyes.

"You don't know how much I've waited for this moment, so here, take this gift, and use it to save Tellius,"

Tears welled up from Sanaki and immediately hugged the the woman, "I've always considered Sephiran to be a father to me, but I want you to know that you were always the one I wanted to consider to be my mother. Nothing changed since that day, and I wouldn't reconsider it for the world.

Sanaki took the ring and slid it on her finger, "I will cherish it, always and forever. Thank you...mother,"

Sigrun broke down and hugged the girl back; her naive, unfulfilled wishes finally resolved.

Tanith watched from the side, an arm covering her mouth as she let out a scream with tears on her face.

The two broke off. Sigrun rubbed the tears from Sanaki's cheeks and ushered her to Ike.

"Please, keep her safe," Sigrun exclaimed

"I will. C'mon Sanaki, let's go," Ike motioned to the girl.

Sanaki clasped her hands, grateful for her fulfilled desires, "Yes, thank you,"

!Acquired Speed Ring!

Chapter Text

"King Tibarn!"

"What is it, Janaff?" Tibarn inquired as he turned around and saw his two retainers landing on the ground.

"We'd like to give this to you before you go," Janaff said, signalling Ulki to bring the item out.

"Here, my king," Ulki stated as he presented a band to the Hawk King.

"What's this?" Tibarn questioned, examining the accessory. It was a band that had a wooden model of an unusual-looking bird crafted in the center of it.

"While you were so busy, your mate couldn't find the time to properly give this to you, so she asked us to do it instead," Janaff explained.

"She also gave us this message to you. "Tibarn, for the love of the Goddess, please come back alive. I barely see you for even a day, even after the Mad King's War, so the best thing you could do is come back alive," Ulki delivered robotically.

Tibarn's expression visibly softened, "Ah, Kayle, I didn't notice. But this foolish hawk won't die, not ever,"

He grabbed the band and slid it on his right wrist, "Janaff, Ulki, thank you,"

"You're welcome my king," Janaff and Ulki bowed before transforming and joining the battle.

!Acquired Staraptor Band!

"Uncle!"

Caineghis halted his tracks, turned, and saw the figures of Skrimir and Giffca running up to him.

"Hm, Skrimir. If I could have permission from Yune, I'd ask her for you to take my place. I know of your frustrations regarding your fight with General Zelgius, and I feel that you might want to redeem your-"

"No! My king," Skrimir injected, "I'm not worthy to, at least, not yet,"

"..."

"When you asked me to lead the war against Begnion, I was ecstatic. I saw the chance to prove myself not just as a warrior, but also a king to our tribe. But I realized I was also arrogant, and reckless. I didn't listen to reason, not from Ranulf, not from Soren, not from anyone. I was in over my head, and I failed to understand until it was too late. I saw the consequences of my mistakes, and I believed I'd almost doomed our army if not for the mercy of their General,"

Skrimir balled up a fist.

"I learned a lot, and I now understand why you shouldered me this responsibility. I feel I have not earned this fight. There must be more to be done before I consider myself worthy of Gallia's throne,"

Caineghis smiled, "I see. My purpose of your deployment is now clear as day isn't it?"

Skirmir nodded, "Yes, but I also did not want you to abandon your final moment of glory,"

"And what do you mean by that?"

"You're planning to give the throne to me sometime after this, aren't you?"

Caineghis slightly reeled and gazed at Giffca with a raised brow.

"He's a clever lion, your majesty," Giffca stated.

"Very well," Caineghis closed his eyes, "Ah, glory. It has been truly a long time since I sought such things. You truly remind me of my younger days, my nephew,"

Skrimir smiled back, "I want your final days to truly befit a king like you. "Caineghis, the Fierce Lion King. He who faced judgment, clawed his way against the peril of extinction, and with a mighty roar, felled the warriors of Ashera and the goddess herself," Would that not be such a fine end to be written in history?"

Caineghis let out a booming laugh, "You have a fair point. Perhaps, I could indulge in the heat of battle, feel the rush as I tear my enemies asunder, and achieve glory. One. Last. Time,"

"That's the spirit, uncle!"

Skrimir then tossed a ring to Caineghis, who caught the object and saw what seemed to be the sun with a lion's mane around it.

"I had a few of our mages infuse it with magic. I believe it nullifies the effectiveness of fire magic," Skrimir explained.

The Lion King examined the band before wearing it with a smile, "I'll take your word for it, now go join the others!"

"At your leave, Your Majesty," Caineghis and Giffca bowed before turning into their lion forms with a mighty roar and ran with thundering steps to join the fight.

!Acquired Solgaleo Band!

"Naesala, Reyson, a moment,"

Rafiel announced himself as Leanne, Nailah, and Naeluchi settled themselves around the two.

"Brother, what is it?" Reyson asked.

Rafield grabbed Reyson's hand and slid a ring on his index finger, "This ring has healing properties. It heals you and close allies. It'll be a great aid in battle,"

Leanne nodded. She flew beside the heron and gave him a quick hug, "Reyson...strong. You...save everyone,"

Reyson beamed, "I will, thank you,"

!Acquired Cresselia ring!

Reyson glanced at the Queen of Hatari, "Hm, Queen Nailah, are you sure you don't want to come with us?"

The Wolf Queen shook her head, "No, I'd rather stay here and protect Rafiel and the others. Besides, the three kings you have eclipse the strength of all beorc in this army. I'd say you have enough,"

"Don't sell yourself short, you're plenty powerful yourself," Reyson stated.

Nailah chuckled, "I know, I'd be a bit of an overkill. But someone has to stay behind and make sure no one dies,"

Reyson nodded and flew toward the gates.

"Ah, nestling! Wait for a moment!"

"Can you please stop calling me that you old hoot!" Naesala growled.

"Oh, that's too bad. Would you not want the gift Princess Leanne made for you?" Naeluchi stated with a mischievous grin.

Naesala was quick to change moods, "Leanne?"

He felt something terribly light brush up beside him, almost like a feather quill tickling him. Naesala raised his arms and saw a pouting Leanne with a small box in her hands.

"Naesala... good heart...but always a bully," Leanne exclaimed.

Naesala dramatically recoiled from the heron's assertion, "Oh cmon, don't be like that Leanne. Look, if I come out here alive, maybe I'll start being nicer, okay?"

Leanne giggled before presenting the small white box to the Raven King.

Naesala opened the gift before him and saw a black necklace, adorned with black feathers and a figure of another bird with what seemed to be a hat on its head.

Odd, but he accepted the gift anyway. Naesala raised the accessory on his head and dropped it, settling comfortably on his neck.

!Acquired Honchkrow Lace!  

"Thank you, Leanne. I appreciate everything you do for despicable laguz like me,"

"Hehe, Naesala...cute,"

"H-Hey, don't start calling me cute all of a sudden!"

"Oh, but it's true! You're always the same cute nestling that I took care of since he was a hatchling," Naeluchi stated as he firmly held his cane.

"Shut up you hag. Now go back and help the others now will ya?"

Naeluchi squawked, "As my king commands,"

The old bird then transformed and took off to the skies. Leanne gave one last look toward the blacked-winged menace before transforming and taking off to the skies.

Rafiel then mounted Nailah on her back and rode her toward the ensuing chaos in the camp.

Naesala relaxed his nerves and joined with the rest of the group, finally completing their band.

"Alright then, let's give em a show shall we?"

Chapter Text

The time has come.

Yune's Chosen Ones pitted against Ashera's Disciples of Order.

The instant they entered the massive tower, the smug face of Lekain along with an army of his golden soldiers greeted them, no doubt setting an unquenchable fiery rage among them.

After a few very obvious grand "head high up on their ass" statements and one or two devastating revelations to Sanaki, it was on sight; reason was truly out the window, and all was left was the pure, chaotic energy the two sides amassed. With a flashy opening, Caineghis and Boyd leaped and crashed down with a claw and axe on two Generals, killing them in one blow.

The others followed suit. Kurthanga and Ena transformed with a guttural roar and advanced upward the stairs to join the battle. Nephenee, Ike, Soren, Sanaki, Micaiah, Sothe, Elincia, and Mist tailed behind, using the two dragons as cover for their steps.

Reyson stayed behind for a moment to rest from taking the essence of a Laguz Gem. He watched as Tibarn and Leonardo descended the stairs to the left while Naesala, Mia, and Rhys swerved to the right.

"Hey, stay behind me, alright? I just wanna make sure you can shoot safely," Tibarn exclaimed.

Leonardo nodded and readied his Lughnasadh, "Got it,"

The Hawk King morphed into his namesake and blitzed through to two Generals mounted on ascending steps with his talons. It packed quite a meaty punch if the sounds of denting armor were anything to go by. The two were left dazed, allowing Leonardo to come in and finish them off with two arrows on their helm's slits.

A General appeared out of nowhere and managed to get the jump on the archer. Leonardo was more than prepared to dodge the man's lance, but Tibarn came to his aid anyway as he halted the soldier's advance with his foot. The hawk pushed the General off the platform, sending him to his, presumably, death from falling.

The two comically looked down out of sheer distraught and darkly comedic amusement.

"I'm starting to think this terrain is kind of, for lack of a better term, ass," Tibarn stated.

"Ditto,"

The pair managed their bearings and resumed their fighting. However, that had to wait as two lucky arrow shots pierced Tibarn's wings, forcing the Royal to transform into his much weaker form and drop on the pavement below.

Leonardo gazed up the platform and saw two Snipers poised to take another shot. His bow quickly shimmered before miraculously letting him outspeed the two archers, taking them down. One of them fell, landing in front of him, while the other dropped dead atop the edge. He then noticed the unusual bow the soldier wielded and instinctively reached out a hand to grab it.

"Over there!"

A Halberdier yelled as a squad of Generals descended the stairs while an unsuspected Swordmaster flanked them from behind.

Leonardo placed Lughnasadh on his back and held the weapon in his hand. He remembered the short lesson he had with Shinon and rushed to courageously slam his body on the Swordmaster, protecting Tibarn. The archer quickly kicked the man on his heels, causing him to wobble, and fired a shot. The arrow blitzed through the air and into the sword wielder's chest, sending him flying off the edge. Leonardo turned around and began raining bolts toward the Generals. Each draw and release pierced the air with each shot as yellow-coated soldiers dropped one by one. A lance-wielding General managed to close the gap and prepared a thrust. Leonardo panicked for a bit before realizing how the bow was as flexible as a crossbow and shot like one too. Relief washed over him as he fired a point-blank shot, killing the man.

!Acquired Double Bow!

"By the Goddess, this weapon is incredible!"

Leonardo marveled at the weapon for a short second before rushing toward Tibarn and plucking out the arrows from his wings.

"Thanks, kid, but uh... you got a friend there," Tibarn said, pointing behind the blond-haired child.

The Halberdier from earlier rushed toward the archer with a roar. Leonardo sighed as he twirled an arrow in his hands. He then leaped in the air and fired the arrow with much force, hitting the lance-wielder in the head, and pinned him down as the bolt stabbed the ground.

"Deadeye!" Leonardo cheered.

A blue light suddenly enveloped Tibarn, healing his wounds. The two silently thanked the mysterious Physic user and proceeded to ascend the stairs.

Chapter Text

Ike smashed a sword-wielding General, who dramatically fell to his knees before falling on the floor. Ike had wondered what was so special about a Hammer. He had seen Titania and Boyd use it occasionally, and even Haar when they were fighting in the Laguz Alliance. It was supposed to be a weapon highly effective against heavily armored enemies, but he had his doubts how really effective they were. But seeing how the General had an...unnatural caved-in helmet where a head is supposed to be, seemed to quell said doubts, and very violently he might add.

"I gotta thank Haar later for this," The mercenary noted, settling the blunt weapon on his back and unsheathed Ragnell.

He felt someone zip beside him, followed by light footsteps that halted behind.

"Sothe? Micaiah?"

"Hey, Ike. Don't mind if we stay beside you for a bit?"

Ike nodded, "Go ahead, I don't mind,"

Sothe sighed and motioned Micaiah to do her thing.

"Ike..."

The mercenary sighed, "...Yune, is that you?"

"Yes...I have a question,"

"Yeah?"

She stomped with a pout, "Why are all of you so mean?!"

Ike blinked, "...Pardon?"

"Mean! Mean! Mean!"

"Uhh..."

Sothe shook his head, "Sorry. She's been like this since we started fighting Ashera's soldiers. Something along the lines of... Yune, why don't you tell Ike?"

"Hmph, fine. All of you are mean! I've noticed ever since Micaiah and her group had been fighting in the slums of Daein! Imagine being a soldier in war, one who's fought tirelessly for his country, only to get shot in the eyeball with an arrow and the last thing they'll ever hear in their lives is a seventeen-year-old in the distance yelling "Too easy!" It's like fighting with a bunch of children with a penchant for violence!"

Ike scratched his head, trying to formulate a response. He was not helped by a distant shout from what he assumed was Leonardo, saying the exact same words Yune complained about, followed by a piercing cry from Tibarn.

Sothe noticed a Sniper pull up behind Micaiah. In the blink of an eye, the rogue was gone. A dying scream replaced the stretching of a bowstring. Sothe returned to their side with a tiny blood smear on his cheek.

"Too easy- Whoops! Sorry Yune,"

Yune placed her hands on her hips, "See!"

She suddenly closed her eyes before opening them with an appalled expression, "Micaiah, don't humor him!"

Ike sighed, "I don't know what you want us to do, Yune. Everyone's getting sick of fighting. Some of us might just want to release some steam, while others seek rush in the war. And besides, we all need that kind of chaos from time to time. Taking a life is serious, but when you're constantly doing that, we get distressed, and some parts of our mind rewire a bit to lash out in more ways than one,"

"I..." Yune left her mouth agape, thinking for a bit before the man's words started to dawn on her.

"I suppose you're right," She said as she wiped the blood off of Sothe, "Hmph, you meatlings are very strange, guess that's more the reason to love, isn't it?

Ike smiled, "Glad you understand. Is that all?"

The Goddess hummed, "Yes, but I'd like to keep talking, is that alright?"

"Talking has no place in battle but why the fuck not? We better get a move on though, we're tailing behind,"

The trio advanced, finding themselves at the edge of a heated confrontation.

"I must say, everyone's chaotic energy is very...intense," Yune exclaimed.

Ike raised an eyebrow, "How so?"

"Well, it's unusual compared to the normal aura I feel in war. It's almost like everyone has a subconscious haze of bloodlust,"

"We are fighting to save the continent, I'm sure the bloodlust is warranted, and besides, if the constant reinforcements we experienced are true for all sides, I have a hunch all of us are pissed off at them," Sothe joined.

Yune brought a hand on her chin, "Yes, that is understandable,"

"The two dragons. They exude something primal within them. The prince seems to be enjoying the rush of battle," She pointed out.

Ike and Sothe glanced in her direction, only to watch as Kurthnaga down ten soldiers with one breath, roaring proudly after his kill. Ena would grab a poor Swordmaster and pin him to the ground, eventually eviscerating the man with her teeth.

"Or that jovial beorc containing the strength of a laguz with your, I assume a younger sister?"

Ike turned his head and saw Boyd spinning like a madman with Urvan while Mist cheered him from behind.

"You're ecstatic friend with the sword and the frail healer. She seems to be enjoying this more than the others, much to her lover's dismay.

They watched to their right and saw Mia strike a pose after cutting a Sage down, all the while Rhys healed her with a nervously-stressed face.

"And of Soan's kin, he's very excited by the looks of it,"

They would cover their ears as a mighty roar that echoed across the tower announced dead men. Caineghis leaped and spun before crashing down on a Halberdier, tearing the man in half. The Lion King growled and turned his attention to a crowd of Generals and Fire Sages gathering around him. The laguz let out another roar before leaping into his first target. A limb tore off from one soldier, setting a panic as they tried to hit the lion, but not a single one managed to touch even the fur of the beast. One, two, and more fell as Caineghis effortlessly eliminated his enemies with his fangs and claws.

While the melee soldiers fought, the Fire Sages began conjuring a conjoined Bolganone against the lion. The circle of Generals, while a breakable wall, is still a wall and has been proven to trap Caineghis inside. The pavement cracked as searing flames bubbled beneath, eventually erupting into a massive pillar that consumed the laguz within.

The spell ended and what emerged was an orange-glowing band on a paw and a lightly bruised king. A very, very angry king.

The circle of Generals did not last for a minute after that. The magicians, seeing the massacre, saw it was fit to run away.

Sothe gripped his Baselard, "Guess I have work to do,"

The rogue bolted toward the scurrying robed men, prompting another observation from Yune.

"And I can sense that most of you have an incredibly violent desire to maul that man over there,"

Ike moved an eye toward a high platform mounted atop steep stairs, guarded by Generals. And sure enough, Lekain made himself known and comfortable in that position.

"Tch, I'll kill that bastard,"

"Yes! You, Sothe, Micaiah, the Queen, Tibarn, Naesala, Reyson, and Sanaki! All of you have some burning fury against that man, especially Sanaki, I sense she wants to strangle the life out of him,"

Yune closed her eyes again before gasping in shock, "M-Micaiah! That's uncouth!"

Sothe returned with a grin and blood painted on his crop top and knife, "I'm back. What did she say?"

Yune held a finger on her lip, listening to Micaiah, "I believe it's what you modern beorc call...an F-bomb,"

Ike and Sothe stood there slack-jawed.

"Yes, three times if I might add. She was really nasty with it too,"

Ike laughed, "Ah, and I thought she was well-mannered,"

"Micaiah... what the fuck?!" Sothe cursed.

"Hm, and I believe I found her teacher," Yune exclaimed, grinning at Sothe.

"I'm not- whatever!" Sothe threw his hands in the air.

The Goddess giggled before turning her attention to the names she mentioned.

"Tibarn seems to be wickedly laughing inside himself. I can sense it growing stronger as he draws near to Lekain,"

As she told, Leonardo and Tibarn massacred everyone in their way, rapidly approaching the senator.

"The heron... he's incredibly feisty for his kind, and he's holding a grimly sadistic wish to tear that man apart like a hawk,"

Ike chuckled, "He did grow up around Tibarn and the other hawks... and also the fact that the senators kind of murdered the heron tribe,"

Yune glanced to her side as Reyson was in the middle of invigorating Boyd, Soren, Sanaki, and Caineghis to keep them on the fight. A ring on his neck glowed, emanating a pink healing energy that enveloped the quartet. Reyson shook his feathers with fervor, glancing at Tibarn's position on occasion, perhaps keeping track to join in beating the ever-living shit out of Lekain.

"The beorc queen isn't as keen on butchering the senator. But she is sternly resolved and eager to fight all the same,"

"Well, one of the senators paraded the Begnion Army through Crimea to catch us. I take it she didn't like that one bit I imagine," Ike explained.

"I see,"

They'd proceed to watch as Elincia, with Nephenee beside her, fought vigorously in the front lines. The Lancer gracefully shielded and struck back each enemy she fought. While Elincia provided support by either healing her comrade or dealing the final blow on the enemies Nephenee struck.

A squad of, ten or so, soldiers manifested in front of them, prompting a heating surge of strength and courage to suddenly light up inside Elincia. Much to Nephenee's concern, the queen ushered her pegasus and sped toward the reinforcements.

One. Two. Three.

Elincia spun Amiti on her hand before leaning to her right, stretching out her sword as she performed a drive-by on three men, cutting their necks.

Four. Five.

Two Warriors fell as Elincia executed two quick slashes on both of her sides, which is no doubt a technique she learned from Oscar.

Six. Seven. Eight. Nine.

A Sniper with a crossbow positioned himself and took a shot. The green-haired queen evaded it with ease before locking eyes on the man. In a flash, she flew beside him and smacked the soldier with her Physic staff before jumping off and driving Amiti on his back.

A swordmaster ran up to her with gaining speed. Elincia gathered her bearings and met the man with clashing blades, one that she easily overcame as she swatted the Silver Sword from the fighter's hands and pierced her sword through his chest. She quickly stepped to her side, evading a lance from a Halberdier before hacking the soldier down in an upward slash.

She gazed as a Bishop lit up his staff and prepared to cast a Sleep spell onto her. That wouldn't happen, fortunately, as he found his robes painted in crimson and an unfamiliar tear on his neck starting to bleed.

Ten.

Elincia mounted her pegasus and bashed the last of them with its hooves. She landed beside the General and roared as she proceeded to inhumanely strike the armored knight four times in quick fashion, executing the man.

That did it for Ike, "Goddess, I want to marry her right now,"

"You'd have to wait, and even then you will also have to deal with the complications of a common sellsword marrying Crimea's queen,"

"Soren?"

The mage strode beside the trio as he closed his Rexcalibur tome, "Hello,"

"Where's Sanaki?" Ike questioned.

A young yet fierce cry echoed from afar, garnering their attention to see Sanaki drop a massive ball of fire on three Generals and a Bishop, incinerating their bodies to ash.

"She's a quick learner. Now she won't be as tired as she usually would be after casting that," Soren exclaimed.

"Good job then, I knew I could count on you,"

"Naesala is growing annoyed," Yune chimed in.

The four felt a gust of wind rush past them as a trail of black feathers rained above. They watched as the King of Kilvas shifted course away from Mia and Rhys and toward Lekain. Yune felt his surge of livid fury as he closed in.

Ike rushed in, eager to get his own piece of the action. Sothe ran behind him with a pair of eyes not filled with glee but rather with the intent to kill.

"Micaiah, I have this unexplainable feeling," Yune mused. She shut her eyes as she listened to the priestess.

"Uhuh, use your Thani tome? To whom?... Behind me?"

Yune turned around and saw five Generals advancing on them from behind. No one paid attention to the impending threat, as they were all busy with their own fights, so she took it upon herself to rectify this issue.

"Recite the chant? Alright then,"

Yune opened Thani and began casting a spell. A tiny ball of light suddenly manifested above the Generals. A few more uttered words and the spell dropped on the pavement.

A short silence, then a massive explosion of light as the tiny ball erupted into a blinding flash. The heavily armored knights who wore their steeled protection with pride were suddenly reduced as if they were folded cans.

Yune closed the tome and was left panting for breath.

"This feeling, this rush... Micaiah, I'm ashamed to admit this but I feel like I may be wanting more of this,"

!Acquired Penchant for Violence!"

The Goddess of Chaos would then find herself in vertigo as Micaiah replaced her in her body, "I believe it's best if you don't, Yune,"

She gazed around, wondering about the current events playing out.

Then she was reminded of Lekain.

Her eyebrows frowned as her eyes filled with a maddening anger. Her words, laced with venom, as she spat out a few, ill-fitting choices of words.

"That fucker, is going to die ,"

!Acquired Penchant For Violence (Lekain Exclusive)!

Chapter Text

The Phoenicis King took down the General guarding Lekain's life, leaving the senator's smug face bravely mocking him.

Tibarn growled, "You... oh I can't imagine how amazing it would feel as I tear you apart, limb from limb,"

"Try as you might, you're not doing that sub-human," Lekain spoke, his words oozing with confidence .

Tibarn screeched as he dove in to grab him with his talons, only for the senator to warp himself away to who knows where.

Unbeknownst to Lekain, the game he ever so proudly claimed to have been masterfully playing, wasn't his to control anymore.

Lekain warped himself in a secluded spot with four pillars blocking any melee attack. He found himself a brief respite.

"Hey!"

So much for respite, he guessed.

Leonardo had been holding the strings of his Double Bow for a while. His hands had started to ache but he convinced himself all would be worth the pain if he saw that pig of a human with an arrow stuck on his head.

But alas, Lekain had been miraculously faster as he warped away, narrowly evading the bolt he fired.

The villain found himself in a similar spot and immediately spotted a blue-haired woman wielding a Storm Sword eagerly poised to fling a gust of slashing wind at him.

"I got you, bitch!"

Lekain, without even a moment to catch his breath, had warped away again. This time, grave concern was plastered on his face as he feared he may have executed the teleportation half-assedly.

True enough, instead of warping into a safe space, he found himself in the center of the middle platform. Awaiting him was a swarm of pissed-off and bloodlusted soldiers of Yune, prompting a bead of sweat to fall from the Begnion Senator.

Lekain gazed into the abyss that was the senate's grand plan. The abyss stared back, and he embraced it, finding himself with power never before held.

But little did he know, all that high talking, all the mockery, all the murders, and all the pawns he thought he moved on the board called Tellius.

He himself was a pawn in all of this as well.

He attempted to warp again but found his staff knocked away by the Queen of Crimea. She gave him a merciful look before her face contorted into a frown, leaving him to her comrade's vices.

He let out a cry as Naesala gashed his side with his beak. Lekain suddenly felt his wounds being healed for some reason. He gazed around with what moment of freedom he would feel and saw their healers focusing their Physic staves onto him.

Then it dawned on him, they would make him feel pain.

Over.

Over.

And over again.

A pathetic whimper uttered from his lips as he felt Ike knee his stomach and slash his arm with Ragnell. The once relieving warmth of being healed now turned into agonizing torture as he felt his body heal and be torn apart constantly in seconds.

Tibarn painstakingly held himself back from tearing the man's head off, as he roughly grabbed the man on his torso and repeatedly bashed his body on the pavement, leaving enough of him to be violated by the others.

Nephenee took a shot, putting two mendable holes in the senator's body with her Brave Lance.

Lekain discerned a cooling wind enveloping his body. His face left agape as he knew no comfort was spared in this assault to his death.

Strong winds tore upon him, painting his body with gashes, courtesy of Soren, who eagerly used his Rexcalibur to its fullest might.

Sothe jumped on the man's belly, pinning him down and welcoming the man with killer eyes before meticulously slicing his Baselard across the senator's throat. Blood gushed from Lekain's neck yet it was quick to recover.

The rogue jumped off just in time as a ball of light dropped on the senator's chest, exploding upon contact. It didn't hurt, barely even, his developed arsenal in light magic certainly made him resistant to it, but the fact that it did had placed a blemish on his catatonic state.

"Let him get up," Tibarn snarled.

"Let him get up," Naesala echoed his friend's platitude, "Or we'll make you,"

Lekain, guided by his fear and shattered pride, stood up. It would not be long before the kings of Phoenicis and Kilvas had gripped both of his arms with a force that could crush his limbs.

With a shrill screech from the two raptors, the villain would find his limbs torn apart, but this time, the healing had halted, no longer prolonging his suffering. Instead, he finally found himself in true pain, wobbling about as blood gushed from his sides, painting the pavement below.

The senator ended in a kneel, gazing up as his enemies watched him suffer and tumble like a slave, perhaps a fitting karma if one knew of his transgressions.

And everyone was very well aware.

Lekain had lived the life, thinking he'd perish in peace and basked in his victory. Now, he knew he would not only be seeing that, but he'd also be dying a gruesome death, but what he wouldn't expect was how gruesome it would truly be.

He watched as the girl he called a false apostle, ran up to him, and spread a hand on his crummy face while the other gripped his neck. The pages of her tome turned and flipped as heat began radiating from her palms.

Lekain dreaded how he would go out, but not before he'd spit out his one last personal triumph against her.

"Agh!... Apostle Sanaki,"

The girl strengthened her hold, forcing a choke from him.

"Heh...I'll die anyway, might as well..."

Lekain let out another gag, "Your parents... those wretched things... they weren't even this close to stopping us... but they knew... hehehe, good thing I kill-,"

He felt his head turn to mush as the warm heat morphed into a furious fire, enveloping his vision to darkness with flame as his eyes popped. His brain melted into a puddle before being incinerated within the blaze, while the ethereal oxygen he once consumed was snuffed by the searing of his throat.

Sanaki's Cymbeline fell on the ground as angry, evaporating tears fell from cold, life-taking eyes; the fire in her hands showing no signs of dimming. It took a few more seconds before Lekain's head had turned into a burning skull, finally stirring Sanaki to douse the flame and drop the corpse. She fell to her knees shortly, gazing at her burnt hands.

"Why?"

She buried her face on them, wailing as her mental dam broke.

The girl suddenly felt a pair of comforting arms wrap around her. She looked up and saw Micaiah, teary-eyed with nothing but sympathy and empathy on her visage. No words were said between the two long-lost sisters as they hugged each other, fully letting out their unspoken emotions.

A heavy silence bore fruit. Everyone seemingly taking in what had transpired.

"...That was very violent," Reyson exclaimed, breaking the silence. The rest of the army nodded in hesitant approval.

Sothe averted his wet eyes away and shuffled the pockets of the dead man's robes. He grabbed not one, but two miraculously well-intact scrolls.

"Hey, there's another-,"

"That one is mine, thank you,"

Sothe watched as Naesala snatched the parchment from his hold and gleefully tore it apart.

"Naesala... a blood pact?" Tibarn warily questioned.

The raven nodded, "My actions can and should not be excused, but for all that I had done, I'd at least want all of you to understand,"

"Figures, everything was Begnion's plan, was it? Soren chimed in , "Naesala's alliance with Daein back then was all due to Begnion being the true instigators of the war through Ashnard. If he disobeyed, Kilvas dies,"

"Spot on, little man. But how did you know?"

"Pelleas told me... don't question it," Soren replied, eliciting an "ok" sign from the raven.

Tibarn was about to inquire another before Naesala shushed him.

"I'd tell all the details when we finish this... hopefully alive and functioning,"

The hawk crossed his arms, "Very well,"

A roar rang out among the army. Caineghis strode in as he transformed back to his human form.

"We hunted down the remaining disciples. We should be clear to go but..."

Everyone raised a brow as the Lion King trailed off, which was cut as Boyd dropped a humorously chained-by-Mist's scarf Hetzel on the floor.

"Sorry, I was ready to hack him down but Mist stopped me, and to be honest, I really don't want to kill a defenseless old man either," Boyd said, scratching his head.

Micaiah and Sanaki joined the group holding hands, garnering a shocked face from Hetzel as he stood on his knees before the girl.

"Apostle Sanaki... I know mere words can never truly atone for everything I did, but my actions should. Please! Let this sinner correct his mistakes! Take me with you!"

The girl narrowed her eyes, unsure of what to make of the man's proposition. She played everything out in her head, what she had seen of the Senators who stabbed her in the shadows and what other things they had done that she did not see. The massacres, the slavery, the wars.

Her parents.

She'd never.

But Hetzel had one more to say.

"If you decide the opposite, I would like to say one more thing... your parents..."

Sanaki gasped. Micaiah's hand tensed around hers.

"I...I tried convincing Lekain and the others. I offered to lock them away, but ultimately safe in my abode, never to interfere in our plans. But they were far too set in stone in executing them for they knew too much. I truly tried, Apostle. Apologies can never bring them back but I tried with all I could for them. I am sorry regardless... that is all,"

The Silver-Haired Maiden glanced at her sister, concerned for her verdict. She sighed in relief after hearing her answer.

"Rise, and fight with us. Do not disappoint me," Sanaki growled for the first time in her life . She was never the one to stoop down to this level of outrage, but right now.

It felt right.

Hetzel took a sigh of relief as the hulking man that tied him up earlier released him from his makeshift prison.

Rhys strode beside the man, offering him an Ellight tome.

"I believe you'll need this, apologies if it's not one of the stronger ones,"

The senator curved a lip, "This will be fine, thank you,"

!Acquired right to live!

!Acquired Ellight!

"Here ya go, Mist. Sorry, we had to use your scarf," Boyd said as he gave the healer her cloth .

"Oh, that's fine. I'm sure you wanted to see me out of it though," Mist teased.

"H-hey, that's not- "

"C'mon Boyd, everyone's getting a move on," Mist said as she urged her horse on a trot, settling her scarf back on her neck.

Boyd groaned as he followed her.

"Ike?"

"Elincia-,"

The mercenary's hand met her's in a firm grasp. He gazed upon her face, seeing turmoil and guilt. Ike returned her hold with comfort and assurance.

"I wanted to give mercy. A part of me wanted to put him on a trial in hopes of some fleeting chance he could atone,"

The mercenary's face softened, listening.

Elincia's visage withered, her fierce front dissolving into an unsure countenance, "But... naively wishing for peace, especially for a man like him,"

The woman took a deep breath.

"He deserved this fate, didn't he?"

Ike gave no answer.

"Daein, Ludveck, Izuka,... they made me reflect, and I now understand,"

The Queen sheathed Amiti.

"Sometimes, some men are too cruel to live in this world, and they must be punished,"

Ike hummed, enveloping his fingers with hers, "I know, but don't let the senators or the others sway your morals, Elincia. They're a different kind of breed,"

This time, Elincia was silent.

"You're kind, caring, and compassionate. Crimea prospers under your rule,"

Ike swayed her green locks to her side, resting his palm as he caressed her face affectionately. Elincia returned the gesture as she rested her face on his palm.

"But I also know you're strong and wise. Yes, some men are indeed too cruel, but the fact that you still feel compassion really shows who you are. But I also know that you wouldn't forsake the lives of the innocent. You're strong and capable of showing a fierce front, and you're also wise to know what needs to be done, all for them, and that's one of the many things I like about you, Elincia Ridell Crimea,"

Elincia's cheeks warmed.

"And the thing with Lucia? Choosing your country over her was incredibly hard for you, but I admired that tenacity... I didn't mean I wanted Lucia to die but good thing we were in time, right?"

Elincia played the memory, remembering how Ike and the others had saved her sister and quelled the rebellion altogether.

"And Ludveck was an asshole, wished I could have kneed him in the shin. I heard from Haar how he folded immediately after you struck him, was that true?"

Elincia giggled, absently nodding in his hands.

"You also didn't just grow metaphorically strong... Earlier, uh... the way how you took down ten soldiers in one go? That was uhh... hot,"

Soren, Mist, and Boyd gawked at what their commander said as they walked past the two. They eventually resumed their pace, leaving them in their romantic bubble.

Elincia's blush further reddened, leaning close to Ike and whispered.

"After we get out of here, kiss me,"

It was Ike's turn to blush, letting out an awkward cough out of surprise. He then smiled, perhaps more than the other smiles he had done.

"I'll be waiting for that," Ike said.

The Radiant Hero held her hands again.

The Queen eagerly returned his affection, clasping his fingers among his, and walking alongside him as they both guided each other through whatever awaited them.

Of course, not without Elincia whistling at her pegasus to come with them.

!Completed C-Support!

Chapter Text

Once they had entered the compact, ornate holy room, the Black Knight greeted their army with a stern posture. His gauntlets were tightly gripped at Alondite's hilt as he stabbed the floor with his blade.

Ike, upon gazing at the familiar black figure, gently freed his grasp from Elincia's hand and rushed toward the knight, leaping into the air and bringing down Ragnell as he spun his entire body. Their blades clashed into a standstill, gazing at each other with steeled eyes. The determination for victory over another filled them with the same rush they basked upon three years ago at Nados Castle.

It would not be long till The Black Knight had revealed himself. After their short scuffle, he had removed his helmet for everyone to see.

General Zelgius. Begnion's greatest knight.

To say everyone was shocked was an understatement. No one had even thought of the man to be the mysterious and insurmountable force that is Daein's former Rider. The mere entertainment of the idea was blasphemy, and one would certainly get executed for even having such thoughts.

Not a moment was spared for everyone to take in the news as they were suddenly flanked from behind by General Levail and more of Ashera's Disciples.

With a booming proclamation, Zelgius stabbed the ground with his sword, forming a massive barrier that split Ike and the rest of the army; blades were drawn, and laguz transformed as everyone managed their bearings and quickly prepared for the battle.

"Hyah!"

A swordmaster fell on the floor, landing right beside Nephenee as she twirled her Brave Lance and jabbed two Halberdiers coming close. A massive shadow suddenly loomed over her figure. She quickly raised her shield just in time to parry a Silver Blade from a General. The two locked their weapons with vigor until the hulking soldier shoved Nephenee with his entire weight, breaking their struggle and causing the woman to bump into a nearby ally.

"Nephenee! Are you alright?!"

She groaned, "Sorry, Queen Elincia. Didn't mean to bump into ya,"

"Oh, that's quite fine. Here, let me help you," Elincia assured.

The Queen clicked her tongue, commanding her pegasus as it used its head to raise Nephenee off the pavement. Elincia then grabbed her under her arms and assisted in hoisting the Lancer to her footing.

Nephenee bowed her head, "Thanks, your majesty,"

"Oh, it's no trouble," Elincia replied with a smile. Her features then soured as she studied Nephenee's demeanor. The woman was steeled, yet not from determination but rather from tension. Her face was somewhat shaken, and her breaths of air drew short with each second.

Elincia knocked a Mend staff on her helmet, shaking the Crimean off her stupor.

"Nephenee?! Please, calm yourself,"

"I-I'm sorry, yer majesty. I don't know why I'm this tense all of a sudden,"

Elincia pursed her lips, "Hm, let me try something,"

The woman raised her staff, letting the healing energy course through Nephenee's woundless body. She knew that healing staves were primarily used for healing physical injuries. But maybe their properties could soothe the mental state as well.

A roar erupted to their right. The two turned their attention as Caineghis knocked a few soldiers a few feet away. He growled defensively as Sothe, Ena, and Kurthnaga formed a tight wall around Micaiah and Sanaki so they could rain their magic down safely.

"Feeling better?" Elincia inquired, attending back to her current patient.

"Yes, but I need a little more if that's alright with ya?" Nephenee shyly asked, prompting a giggle from her Queen.

"I'll be here. I can't leave my friend unfit for battle, can I?

Another roar echoed out across the room, this one coming from Boyd. They watched as the Reaver effortlessly plowed through waves of enemies with his axe, further helped by Soren as he assisted in his endeavors with his sharp winds. Mia made quick work of the reinforcements coming from their side. The shrill screeching of Tibarn and Naesala was made apparent as the cries of soldiers that once guarded General Levail and a few Bishops ceased to exist.

Nephenee's state had all been cleared, cricking her neck as she did.

"I apologize again, Queen Elincia. It's just that the whole world is in our hands. I've been chosen to fight here like I'm some divine warrior. Not only that, but I also have to protect you, and then I need to come out of here alive for Geoff-"

She quickly shut herself with a hand over her mouth, blushing furiously.

Elincia beamed, "I understand. Even I feel a tad overwhelmed, but everyone is working together for a better tomorrow. We'll get through this,"

Nephenee meekly nodded.

"Oh, and don't be embarrassed. Truth be told, I was aware of Geoffrey's previous feelings toward me. But I feel that my own feelings for Ike may have dissuaded him from pursuing such matters, so I'm glad,"

Elincia clasped her hands over hers, delightfully beaming as her smile met the farmer's abashed face.

"I'm glad you came into his life. I'm afraid he might have married knighthood instead of a fair maiden if it weren't for you," Elincia exclaimed as she stifled a laugh, "He works so tirelessly. But every time I see his smile as he prepares himself to visit you, I know he's in good hands. I can't help but be happy for him because he deserves to be. You're the bright spot in his life, and I see there's no better person to be with him but you, Nephenee,"

The Sentinel's flusteredness doubled over as she covered her face with her helmet.

"I-I don't know what to say. Thank you, Queen Elincia,"

"Yes," Elincia nodded, "Now, I think love talk in the middle of a battlefield is hardly fitting, so let's get back into the fray, shall we?"

Nephenee brandished her Brave Lance. Her once-shaken form had now been replaced by a determined fire.

"Yes, I'll stay by your side,"

Sharp reverberations suddenly pierced their ears. The loud bashing of steel accompanied by a mighty warcry announced themselves as General Levail struck both his spear and shield. Reinforcements came rushing and rallied in front of him, setting another barricade.

As the general lifted his weapon, the familiar figure of the weapon raised a few alarms on the Queen and her guard.

"Is that..." Elincia stated with squinted eyes.

Nephenee had a glimpse of Levail's lance. Her eyes immediately widened upon her realization.

"Wishblade?!"

"Indeed. You held the weapon for some time until Begnion requested their return, was it not?"

A sudden urge to rip the lance off Levail's hands and reclaim the weapon she once wielded overtook Nephenee like a storm. She tightened her hold on the Brave Lance she held and gazed at her Queen for some approval to go wreck shit.

Elincia gazed at the woman beside her and had a feeling.

"Nephenee, as your Queen, I order you to temporarily resign your duty as my guard and go uhm... give them hell?"

That was all she needed to hear.

Nephenee charged at the front with a roar, grabbing a Spear on her back and lobbing the weapon at a poor Halberdier on the head. She leaped in the air and grabbed two forged Javelins, throwing them with vigor as the projectiles pierced through a limb of two Swordmasters. The squad of Generals took notice of her rampage and formed a tight wall, slowly advancing with raised shields.

But to think that would impede the woman was a grave mistake.

The Crimean warrior huffed before rushing toward the center; using her momentum, she jumped at the General, crashing with her entire weight and toppling the massive soldier on the floor. Panic settled among the disciples as they watched the woman easily tear through their fellow warrior's armor with her Brave Lance.

Seeing how she had penetrated their defenses, Nephenee wasted no time as she started a massacre behind the frontlines. She grabbed the last of her Javelins and threw them at the two Snipers, swiftly eliminating them. Three Halberdiers rushed in from her sides, aiming to thrust their spears onto her. The woman held her footing and spun with her lance as her enemies got close, breaking their weapons and dispatching them altogether.

The Generals had closed the gap, striking their weapons upon the woman. One by one she dodged their blades, hopping a step back as their swords and lances struck the pavement instead of her. A gleam suddenly glinted from her eye and spun her spear with intensity.

!Impale!

She dashed toward the soldiers with a piercing look. With a roar, her lance punctured one of the heavily armored disciples as she jammed her weapon straight through their chest. She quickly pulled the spear out, bloodied to hell, as she parried an oncoming sword with her shield. Nephenee disarmed the second General, roughly shoving the blade off his hands before stabbing the soldier in the head. A massive shadow suddenly loomed over her. Nephenee quickly stepped to her side, avoiding a lance from the armored knight. A broken hilt paved the path as her attacker fell from the Crimean warrior's Brave Lance, puncturing two holes in the soldier's armor.

As the General dropped to the floor, Nephenee, having eliminated their reinforcements, diverted her attention to Levail, locking her gaze upon the earnest man wielding her prize.

"Fascinating, a mere Crimean soldier besting Ashera's soldiers like a mere scythe sweeping fields of wheat,"

Nephenee narrowed her eyes, "You think we're weak? Farmers compared to Begnion?"

"You misunderstand me, I just never thought Crimeans had this much fight in them," Levail answered.

"We might not have been as powerful Daein or as strong as Begnion are, but we Crimeans fight tooth and nail for our land! Our love burns and drives us forward, that is our strength! Now come and give me that Wishblade!"

Nephenee bashed her spear and shield, roaring as she charged toward the Begnion general.

Levail rearmed his grip on Wishblade, huffing as he smirked, "If you wish to take it from my hands, then show me Crimea's might!"

The man returned the gesture, mimicking her actions before rushing into the fray to meet the woman in battle.

The Sentinels clashed as their shields struck an echo across the chamber. The two held their footing with gritted teeth, forcefully and patiently waiting to pierce through an opening.

Levail overwhelmed the woman as he slowly advanced against her guard, eventually shoving her off before quickly thrusting his spear onto her chest. Nephenee mustered every sense of stable footing she had and rolled backward. She quickly brought her shield again as Levail charged with a shoulder bash. The Crimean internally sighed in relief, fortunately managing to stay grounded as the man levied all his weight against her. Nephenee fended him off and aimed two quick strikes on his breastplate, though she would find it did little more than mere dents on the armor.

Nephenee's eyes widened and immediately hopped back a few feet away right as Levail smashed his Wishblade on the floor she once stood on. He dashed toward her, scraping the lance on the pavement as he prepared an upward strike upon the woman. Nephenee narrowed her eyes, closely focusing on her enemy's spear. As Levail swung his arm, the woman had rolled beneath the blank spot his Wishblade once had been, leaving her beside him and completely open to her attacks.

The Begnion general attempted to guard himself but was met by two rapid slashes across his legs. His stance quivered as his limbs slightly slacked from the foreign pain. Nephenee proceeded to bash the man with her shield, causing Levail to stumble before leaping into the air and bringing down her Brave Lance onto his right pauldron, tearing it off, before jabbing her blade into his abdomen.

The two caught a moment of respite. Nephenee pulled her lance out of his body, catching her breath. Levail was quick to cough blood, struggling to gain a solid footing as he crutched his injury with his hands.

"Had enough?" Nephenee spat, panting as she adjusted her grip on the weapons that had been keeping her alive in this fight.

Levail gazed at the woman with silent respect before declining her assumption.

"No, and never will be. I have orders from General Zelgius, and I intend to follow them through,"

"Why are you so eager to follow him?"

"Because... he's the last true knight of Begnion. Whatever his plan may be, I will follow him. That is my resolve,"

As if a beast had taken over Levail. He brought down the visor on his helm with a swift nod and charged toward Nephenee with an unrelenting adrenaline he had never felt before. The poor woman had not even the time to react as she found herself being knocked onto a wall, manifesting cracks as she hit the stone.

Nephenee coughed her own blood as she gripped her aching shoulders. Rampaging footsteps inched closer, forcing the Crimean knight to gather what little bearings she had and roll away, just in time as Levail's Wishblade punctured the wall where she stood. The woman stood quickly, hoping to get back into the fight. She spun as she leaped, clashing her lance with Levail's. She soon found her martial strength immensely lacking in this situation as the man effortlessly overpowered her. Nephenee managed to hold onto her Brave Lance, but that didn't dissuade the Begnion general from smacking her with his shield, painting a massive bruise on her cheek as blood spilled from her nose.

Levail closed the gap and executed an uppercut on her abdomen with the face of his guard. Nephenee bucked against the pressure before falling forward, giving Levail enough leverage to lift her up with his shield, swinging her backward, and slamming her onto the pavement. The Begnion general quickly pierced her left shoulder and twisted the hilt, eliciting a pained scream from the woman. She attempted to her Brave Lance but the man stepped onto her right arm, halting her last resort.

"You fought well," Levail exclaimed as he removed his Wishblade from her shoulder and hoisted it up, aiming it at her chest.

Nephenee's life flashed before her eyes: her family in Ohma, her friends, her life as a soldier in the Mad King's War, her love with Geoffrey, her achievements, and her failures. Everything.

She internally sighed as she closed her eyes, accepting that she may have bit off more than she could chew, but at least she would know she died fighting for the greater cause.

And she really wanted that Wishblade.

"NEPHENEE!"

The Crimean woke up as her name was called. She saw as Levail had begun the motions to stab her to her death until a Tomahawk tore off the Wishblade from the man's arms, saving her from a sharp stick through her chest.

She immediately got to work and stabbed her lance on Levail's side. Nephenee stood up and backhanded his face with her functioning arm, staggering the soldier. She pulled him over as she grabbed her weapon, closing the distance before quickly following her maneuver with a headbutt, creating the perfect opening for a decisive strike. She spun her lance around her, building momentum before speeding at the downed Begnion general with her weapon pointed forward.

The lance pierced through Levail, coloring it with blood. The man coughed more blood once more. He removed his visor, revealing warm, merry eyes as his lips curved into a smile.

"I commend you, fellow soldier. I had - hrrk!- hoped we had finished the fight on more fair terms but we are ultimately fighting for our goals in the end,"

Levail's body began limping, the cold grasp of death slowly consuming him.

"You earn...Wishblade, use it... well..."

The proud Begnion soldier- General Levail, summoned the last embers of his strength and stabbed the lance on the pavement, before finally giving in, ending his service to the empire, and ending his life.

Nephenee gasped for breath. The rush in her body gradually calmed as she pulled her bloodied weapon out of Levail's body. She wobbled a few steps, eventually falling on the floor as weariness dawned on her.

"Nephenee!"

The same voice called out for her again. Footsteps grew close, revealing a stricken Elincia holding an already glowing Mend staff.

Nephenee felt her injuries heal. She rolled her wounded shoulder and felt its familiar functioning movements. Her bloody nose had dried up, and the massive headache from the shield bashing she had taken was gone too. Some of the aching was still present, and Ashera knew her tiredness was a natural course she must go through.

Nevertheless, she was more than glad the fight was settled with her at the top. She held a small reservation that she may not have deserved such a victory due to outside assistance. Still, she quickly remembered why they were fighting and threw the thought away.

And Levail was a horrifying opponent. A part of her is grateful she got help.

"Nephenee, goddess, I'm so sorry. I should have never ordered you to -,"

"Don't beat yourself over it, Queen Elincia. This was partly my fault, I wanted to throw myself in that fight,"

Elincia grasped her shoulders and settled the woman to rest beside her, "Still, I should have paid attention. I could have used my Physic staff..."

"As I said, don't beat yourself over it," Nephenee stated exhaustingly.

"Oh, Nephenee,"

Boyd came into view, walking past them, and grabbed the fallen Tomahawk from the floor.

"Jeez, Nephenee. I thought you were a goner for a second. Good thing I got a good throw with this, right?"

Nephenee weakly raised her arm and formed a thumbs-up.

The Reaver returned the gesture and walked away to join the others.

Elincia turned her attention to the lying corpse of their enemy. Nephenee gave a passing glance and joined her too.

"He was a strong one," Nephenee said, "He fought like a knight unleashing whatever chains were holding him,"

"Everyone is fighting for their cause. He fought for his ' and we fought for ours," Elincia responded, casually stroking her fingers along Nephenee's locks.

A brief quietness took hold between the two. The brief thuds of clanging weapons on the floor echoed across the room, signaling the fighting was over on their side.

Elincia settled her sights on the Wishblade stuck on the ground. She let out a tiny smile and urged Nephenee with a buckle.

"You feeling alright, Nephenee?"

"Yep," Nephenee replied, releasing herself from Elincia and standing up.

Elincia got on her feet as well, "For such a difficult battle, I think you deserve a reward.

The Queen motioned her arms, pointing at the weapon stuck on the ground.

Nephenee smirked, "It's a reward alright,"

The Crimean knight grasped the expertly forged lance, brushing her fingertips along the hilt as she felt the familiar sensation of the weapon she once held.

She released Wishblade from the pavement, giving it a test spin. She gazed at Levail for a few seconds before bowing her head out of respect for the general. She returned to Elincia and then with the others, who had comfortably sat down to watch Ike and Zelgius duke it out from the other side.

!Acquired Wishblade!