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Chapter Text

- …And it is written in the Sacred Almanacs: "Venerate with all your soul the resurrection of the Silent Dragon. He is our guide, our savior, our liberator. Let us hope that in his immense generosity, he deigns to listen to us from his throne of bones. We, mere mortals, exist only to venerate the Silent Dragon."
- Amen!!

All the faithful launched into acclamations and prayers. The underground room, located beneath Krakenburg Castle, which brought together thousands of followers of the Dragon Sect, vibrated with a new energy tonight. The Sect master, the Scale-Bearer, watched from the shadows as his apprentice recited the various prayers from the Codex Draco, the Sect's sacred book that contained its entire history, rules, ect…
The Scale-Bearer didn't want to shirk his duty and the privilege of guiding the disciples, but a more prestigious task held him back tonight. He felt a small hand pulled his dress. He looked down at the little boy named Corrin who was holding onto him, and he felt a sense of respect and veneration fill him. Yesterday, King Garon had brought them the child who was the offspring of the Silent Dragon Anankos. He had been raised by his mother in the kingdom of Hoshido, but now he would be raised in Nohr. The Dragon Sect would raise him, and later, the Silent Dragon's descendant would serve the kingdom of Nohr. The Scale-Bearer grimaced. He had been forced to ally himself with Nohr, who worshipped the Dark Dragon, which was a false idol. But he had no choice; the Sect couldn't risk kidnapping Corrin themselves, or their existence would be discovered.

- Sir?
- What is it, young master?
- I'm scared...
- Don't worry, young master. We are your most loyal allies. You can count on us for all your needs. Your existence is our purpose, and you honor us with the air you breathe.
- I don't remember anything...
- Yes, you took a blow to the head, so you've forgotten your memory. But you're at home, with your family.

It was all a lie. Prince Corrin's mother had married the king of Hoshido, but King Garon had managed to kill him and kidnap Corrin at the same time. He made sure to erase all of Corrin's memories so he would forget his in-laws, to make him believe that his real family was the one in Nohr. Although King Garon and the Dragon Sect were allies, they didn't share the same goal. Garon wanted to use Corrin to invade Hoshido, while the Sect wanted Corrin to become king of the three kingdoms to form a single empire.

- You'll see, your brothers and sisters are waiting for you. Just wait until the ritual is complete.
- The ritual?
- We must introduce you to all the members of the Sect. That way, their devotion will be absolute.
- I don't understand.
- Don't worry. As a Scale-Bearer, I will protect you with my life. But you must also understand that your family has asked us to instruct you in the arts of war. Later, you will become King Garon's Warhammer, and you will lead the armies to victory.
- I will do my best to please my father.
- That's the attitude to have. Let's go.

They stepped onto the stage, and the mere presence of the descendant of Anankos was enough to silence the followers.

- Faithfuls!! This is a great day for us!! As the Codex Draco foretold, the descendant of the Silent Dragon has come!! Here is proof of your unwavering faith!! Our goal will soon be accomplished!! Watch closely for the embodiment of our hope, for he will unite the three kingdoms and bring peace!!

The room echoed with the cheers and prayers of the faithfuls, watching Corrin in awe. After several minutes, they both stepped down from the stage to a private room. When the Scale-Bearer opened the door, the first thing he saw was the imposing presence of King Garon, seated on one of the two couches.
- Scale-Bearer... I hope you're done with your useless prayers.
- Do not offend the wrath of the Silent Dragon. Remember our march? In exchange for letting us raise Prince Corrin, he will serve you when he's ready.
- I haven't forgotten. But make sure you raise him only for war.
- Of course.
- Tell me, Corrin, do you remember anything?
- No, but I know you're my father.
- Good. While traveling, your mother was killed by Hoshidian forces. So I expect you to put all your rage into your training.
- My mother...is dead?
- Exactly, then, you will follow my orders and those of the Scale-Bearer while he trains you, and try to live up to your title. I'm leaving.

King Garon stood and left the room without a backward glance at his adopted son. He had shown no emotion during the entire conversation, as usual. The Scales-Bearer throw a regard on Corrin, who hadn't really understood what had happened.

"I'm sorry, my master, but you won't feel happy often. But I will pray that you understand the reasons why we are doing this."

Chapter Text

15 years later

The sun's rays gently woke Corrin. He pulled the thin sheets off his bed and took a few minutes of quiet time. Finally, he opened his eyes and stood up. He was in the northern fortress, a castle inhabited only by Corrin and his servants, hidden from view. It wasn't him who chose to live here, but his father, and since he was little, he had lived there in permanent isolation. The only outsiders allowed into the fortress were his father, his siblings, and the Scale-Bearer.
Corrin turned to the mirror and looked at himself for a moment. Since his youth, King Garon and the Dragon Sect had forced him to study warfare and strengthen himself, resulting in a body with bulging muscles. His torso was covered in scars, like his face. He had red eyes, white hair, and pointy ears. He considered himself handsome, since he hadn't seen many men in his life. He combed his hair before putting on his Sect-made tunic, which consisted of an open shirt made of black wyvern skin, a cape, a belt with a buckle shaped like a dragon's head, pants with iron plates on the front, and steel boots. Corrin liked to wear light clothing, which was quite unusual in Nohr, as it suited his fighting style. He inspected his right arm, which wasn't made of flesh but of enchanted metal. When he had tried to tame his Helldrake, he had lost an arm, which King Garon had replaced with an enchanted metal one. Finally, Corrin equipped his two swords, which he clipped to his belt, along with several daggers, just before his servants entered the room.

- My lord, are you awake already?
- Unless this was all a dream, yes, Felicia.
- Good, I didn't want to wake you up again with our ice powers.
- Don't worry, I didn't want to either, Flora.

Flora and Felicia, the ice sisters. They had been her servants forever, and they were the ones who tended to her injuries after his training. Two men entered the room. The first was Jakob, who was the same age as Corrin and the most efficient butler in History. The second was his weapons master, Gunter, and although he was old, he still struck fast and hard.

- Lord Corrin, your brothers and sisters will be arriving soon.
- Thank you, Jakob. It looks like Xander won't spare me.
- He just wants to make sure the Sect is doing its job properly.
- Like when I lost an arm?
- He forged your arm himself.
- And I'm grateful for that. Well, I'll go greet them.

Corrin and Jakob headed toward the landing strip where his siblings usually landed. On the way, they passed the stables, where his Helldrake, Sa'Kan, rested. It was a magnificent mount that resembled a black wyvern, except it breathed fire, was over 15 meters long, and Helldrakes were legendary for being untamable war machines. The Sect had asked him to go tame it when he was barely 10 years old. He had traveled to a chain of volcanoes, the Helldrakes' home, and fought and hunted for over 10 hours in the sulfur and ash. He was lucky to have just one less arm, which Sa'Kan had bitten off. After capturing him, it had taken him a whole year to tame Sa'Kan. Finally, they arrived at the airstrip where his siblings were waiting for them.

- Corrin!
- It's good to see you again, brother.
- Come give your big sister a hug, sweetie.
- I hope you're not too bored here.

The first one who spoke was Elise, his youngest sister; she was a true ray of sunshine, always smiling. Then there was Leo, his youngest brother, who was the smartest but had a tendency to be cold to those he didn't know. There was also his sister Camilla, who constantly treated him like a child. She was a true beauty, but she was also very strong in combat, and Corrin had seen her in enough battles to know not to underestimate her. And finally, Xander, the oldest and most powerful of the siblings, the heir to the throne, had all the qualities to be a good king, but he never forgot to take care of his family.

- How's your metal arm?
- It fits like a glove.
- I'll never understand why Father and the Sect asked you to go hunt your Helldrake when you were still just a child, sweetie.
- I keep saying it, we must ban this Dragon Sect.
- Stop it, it's no use. They're allies of Father, and you know better than me that we must not contradict him.
- This hunt cost you an arm, big brother!!
- I'm lucky it only cost me an arm. By the way, are we going to fight or not, Xander?
- Corrin, before we fight, I want you to know that I've always been suspicious of this Sect. If it keeps going like this, I won't hold back against them.
- It won't do any good, big brother.
- Look at you!! Not only did you lose an arm because of them, but they also torture you frequently to make your body accustomed to the pain!
- And what do you want to do? At least this way, I'm strong.
- How can you say that?
- Listen, Xander. I know you're worried about me, and I'm grateful, I really am. But there's nothing we can do, and besides, the results are there.
- I know, Corrin. But you don't deserve this.
- No one does.

The two brothers went up to the roof where they prepared for training. Usually, it was the Scale-Bearer who trained Corrin, but Xander sometimes insisted for taking his place. Corrin knew that Xander was going to hold back against him but the Scale-Bearer had taught him to never hold back in combat and to always fight as if his life depended on it. He drew his two swords and rushed at Xander, their swords clashing in a shower of sparks. Corrin's upbringing had focused almost exclusively on combat; he had trained every day, he had learned to welcome fatigue and pain as friends. His attacks were precise and brutal, trying to get past Xander's defenses, who nevertheless blocked his attacks. Rage seized him and accelerated his attacks, attacking him from all sides with his two swords. Finally, the two lowered their swords.

- It seems like you've really improved.
- Thanks, but I still can't beat you.
- You're getting closer to that little by little. Let's rest. I'm sure you want to spend the rest of your day with your siblings.
- You know me too well.

The two went down from the roof to the living room where Camilla, Leo, and Elise were waiting. The rest of the day passed too quickly for Corrin. Visits from his siblings were frequent, but he still remained alone in this large castle, which is why he enjoyed his siblings so much. Elise and he played together. Camilla brought him all the news from the kingdom and made him dream by telling him about the places she wanted him to visit when he could go out, and Leo gave him several books on magic for his studies. These moments of relaxation with his brothers and sisters were the only good times in his life, which was filled with nothing but suffering, training, and pain. Without them, he would have gone completely crazy.

- I thank you all for coming to see me so often; I couldn't dream of better brothers and sisters.
- It's normal, sweetie, we care about you.
- You are our brother and you have lived isolated from everything. We have a duty to take care of you.
- I hope you can go out soon, big brother!
- That day is closer than you think, Princess Elise.

They all turned to see the Scale-Bearer subtly approaching them. Corrin immediately sensed animosity from her siblings. They had always hated the Sect for forcing Corrin to live in seclusion and for the suffering they had endured.

- What do you mean?
- King Garon demands to see you, young master. He has given me permission to take you out of here.
- Why?
- He will explain everything to you in person.
- I won't turn down a chance to get out of this cold, dark castle.
- Careful, Corrin, this could be a trap.
- There's definitely something going on, I agree. But it's an order from Father, and you know as well as I have no interest in making him angry.

Xander remained silent as he and the others mounted their wyverns. Corrin saddled Sa'Kan and travel with them toward Krakenurg, the royal castle. Finally, he could say goodbye to this fortress that had held him back for years, but he also felt that this was only the beginning of the troubles.

Chapter Text

Corrin landed with Sa'Kan on one of the royal family's landing pads. It was a good thing the guards had been warned he was riding a Helldrake, or they would have shot him at the mere sight of Sa'Kan. And even after landing, the guards trembled in fear at the monstrosity and the Helldrake's grossly appearance. Corrin set off towards the castle, and more specifically towards the throne room. But on the way, he spotted a crowd of people below the landing pad. It wasn't a crowd, but a gathering of tens of thousands of people who kept pointing and shouting at him. He quickened his pace and entered Castle Krakenburg. He knew the place, having spent hours studying it in his room, allowing him to reach the throne room without getting lost. The door was at least 4 meters of high and made of thick, dark wood. It was guarded by two royal guards in resplendent black armor. The two guards bowed to him, and the doors opened to allow him access to the throne room. It was large enough to accommodate all the Nohrian nobles, and at the far end was the throne where King Garon sat, flanked by Xander, Camilla, Leo, and Elise. Corrin bowed to her king and father, waiting for him to speak.

- Corrin… It's been a long time. How was your travel?
- You do me too much honor, my Lord. My travel did indeed go well, but if I may ask, why are there so many people in front of Krakenburg?
- Ah, I see you've already noticed the influence you have on people. You know the Dragon Sect thanks to the Scale-Bearer, who is its master. I tried to destroy it before finally allying myself with it. The Sect's influence is strong in Nohr, and tens of thousands of people worship you every day.
- They worship me, but why?
- You'll find out soon enough. The Scale-Bearer and Xander have been singing your praises in battle; I hope they weren't lying.
- I will make you proud with my blades, my Lord.
- We shall see about that. Corrin, I have high hopes for you, and so does the Dragon Sect.
- How so?
- First, I would like you to become my Warhammer, which means that you will be my champion and commander of my armies. Then, the Dragon Sect would like you to guide them and assume your role as savior.
- I understand the role you've given me, and it's an honor. But I don't really understand the role the Sect wants me to play…
- You'll know soon enough. But today, we will determine if you are worthy of bearing the name of the Warhammer.
- What shall I do, my Lord?
- We have captured several Hoshidian prisoners. I want you to face them and be victorious.

King Garon snapped his fingers, and royal guards brought several prisoners. All were dressed in Hoshidian attire, and among them was a green-haired ninja and a muscular woman with brown skin and white hair. Corrin glanced at his siblings before sighing. He wasn't going to receive any help, obviously; this fight was his and his alone. But that didn't matter; he finally had the opportunity to shed the blood of the people who had killed his mother. At this thought, Corrin grabbed his swords and drew them, the blades gleaming with a brilliant silver.

- Know, Nohrian, that we will not give up, said the green ninja.
- Lower your weapons. If you do, I will grant you a quick and painless death.
- Are you kidding us?! the white-haired woman yelled. We will not shame ourselves so easily!!
- Then may I at least know your names, so I can carve them on your tombstones?
- My name is Kaze, a ninja in the service of the royal family, and this is Rinkah, daughter of the leader of the Fire Tribe.
- Thank you, Kaze and Rinkah.

He had barely finished his sentence when he dodged two shurikens, before retreating from the onslaught of the Hoshidian prisoners. They were mostly basic soldiers; Kaze and Rinkah were the real threats. Corrin easily dodged his enemies attacks before counterattacking. One soldier's throat was slit, and another was beheaded. Corrin had been raised on violence and bloodshed, and he had learned to kill his enemies as quickly as possible. Other soldiers fell to his blades. He attacked, dodged, mutilated, and killed. His entire mind was focused on holding back the rage he felt at having to face the Hoshidians. In a short time, only he, Kaze, and Rinkah remained. As the ninja threw shurikens at him, Rinkah tried to strike him with a powerful blow from her mace, but his metal arm blocked the blow. He closed his fist and sent a blow into Rinkah's jaw, which didn't break despite the impact of the iron on her bones, but it did knock her out. Kaze tried to stab him from behind, but Corrin grabbed Kaze's dagger and blocked it. He then made a deep cut in Kaze's stomach, forcing him to kneel in defeat. From his throne, King Garon reveled in the spectacle.

- Magnificent. Now finish them off.
- My king, is this really necessary? They're already defeated...
- You dare question my orders?! Don't you want revenge on the Hoshidians who took your mother's life?! Then end this fight.

Corrin sighed. He knew it was a bad idea to question King Garon's orders, and he turned to Kaze, the only one still conscious.

- If you must kill me, then do it properly.
- I don't want to make you suffer, so your death will be quick.

Corrin plunged her sword straight into Kaze's stomach, and he fell unconscious seconds later. Corrin stood up and looked at her father.

- Good. It was a very interesting sight. I'm glad Xander wasn't mistaken about you; you have undoubtedly become strong enough to be my Warhammer.
- I am honored to have your trust, my Lord.
- Now, take his bodies away from me and feed the wyverns with them.
- My Lord, I would like to inspect Kaze’s and Rinkah's bodies in my quarters; I think they might be useful.
- If you wish. But first...

King Garon stood up and summoned A double-edge axe before him, which he handed to Corrin.

- This axe is called Thorbjørn, and it's imbued with ancient magic. It is proof that you are now my Warhammer.
- I don't know how to show my gratitude.
- Bring me victories and that will be enough. Now go.
- Yeah!! You did it, Corrin.
- I knew you wouldn't fail, brother.
- Congratulations, Corrin. I'm truly happy for your success, and if we go to the hot springs to celebrate your success ?
- I always knew you possessed this strength and willpower.
- Thank you all. I'd really like to celebrate with you now, but I have something to do first. I promise to join you as soon as I'm finished.
- Don't be too long!

Corrin left her siblings and headed to her private quarters. He entered and immediately closed the door behind him, ordering the guards not to let anyone in. Finally, he looked at the two bodies lying before him and took a deep breath.

"It won't be easy, but it should do the trick."

Chapter Text

Kaze opened his eyes and was blinded by the light emanating from the chandelier hanging from the ceiling. He tried to move a little but he stopped, his body aching. He managed to move his head to see where he was. He was lying on an operating table in a luxurious room, and Rinkah was next to him, with bandages on her head and stomach. When Kaze inspected his own body, he discovered that he too had bandages on his stomach, torso, and arms, covering the wounds he had received from the Nohrian warrior. He couldn't get rid of the image of that warrior with a metal arm, wielding two swords, and killing as if it were the most normal thing in the world. He didn't know where he came from, but he was definitely not a normal Nohrian. Kaze had already heard rumors that a sect was powerful in Nohr, but if it produced warriors this strong, Hoshido was in danger.

- Don't move too much. I spent hours saving you, not so you'd reopen your wounds yourself.

Kaze turned his head and his eyes widened. It was him, the Nohrian warrior who had almost killed him. He was holding fresh bandages, and his hands were stained with blood.

- You... you saved me?
- Yes.
- But... I'm... your enemy...
- True, but I couldn't let you die like that, and besides, you can be useful to me. Do you think that's for what I was careful not to pierce any of your vital organs?
- You... deliberately saved me... why such great generosity?
- It may seem unlikely to you, but Nohrians can also show empathy. I was careful not to kill you because something held me back, perhaps pity. I was raised to kill Hoshidians, but when I saw you and Rinkah fight, I felt like sparing you both.
- I guess I should thank you.
- Yes and no. I'm going to take advantage of the fact that I saved you to ask you a few questions. Before you worry, no one else knows I saved you, so if you answer me honestly, I could take you to the border and let you go.
- Why?
- It's a good question, but I don't have any answers for you. Are you willing to answer me?
- I don't really have a choice...
- No, indeed. Here's my first question: what is Hoshido like?
- Hoshido is a prosperous kingdom ruled by Queen Mikoto and her children. There are many farms, the people are happy and don't seek to fight with the people of Nohr. But don't expect me to reveal military secrets to you.
- Anyway, that's not what interests me. What is Queen Mikoto like?
- She's a competent, wise, and caring ruler. She's peaceful, intelligent, and loving towards everyone.
- She's the opposite of King Garon, it seems.
- Indeed.
- Hm. Isn't Hoshido really seeking war with Nohr?
- No. Like I said, the people are happy and don't need to be at war. Queen Mikoto ensures the defense of the kingdom and insists that everyone be given a fair chance.

The warrior didn't reply and began to change Kaze's bandages, which were stained with blood, and he could see the wound the warrior had inflicted. It was a wound that had been stitched and cauterized; he'd probably only be left with a scar.

- If it hurts too much, you can ask me a question, and I'll answer you.
- Is it true... that there's a sect in Nohr?
- You mean the Dragon Sect? It exists and it's powerful. I myself am one of their symbols, but I know almost nothing about them.
- Are you part of that sect?
- I was raised by their leader, and apparently, he sees me as a savior. They seem to worship someone, and I'm his descendant. Their leader, the Scale-Bearer, trained and taught me to become King Garon's Warhammer and the Sect's idol.
- I can't understand your role.
- For King Garon, I am the commander of his armies, and for the Sect, I am their leader and idol.
- You seem like... a prince, but I've never heard of you...
- I've been isolated my whole life in a fortress and was only able to come out yesterday, and one of the first things King Garon asked me was to kill you.
- But you disobeyed.
- Don't get too excited.
- Why?
- I was raised to kill the royal family. I've spent my whole life training to be strong enough to kill your dear queen and her children.
- You can't do this! Queen Mikoto... is a good queen, she doesn't deserve this!
- All the Hoshidians deserve this, because they killed my mother.
- But...
- Shut up. I saved you because I had a moment of weakness. I'm going to take you with Rinkah to the border and you can go to Hoshido. My Helldrake is waiting and ready to go.

The discussion ended there. The warrior helped Kaze up and carried Rinkah in his arms. They safely reached the landing strip where Sa'Kan was waiting, and after strapping Rinkah in, they climbed onto the Helldrake, which took off. Kaze heard no alarms or screams, and they flew away from the dark castle Krakenburg. They spent an hour flying without speaking; Kaze was too busy blocking out the pain signals from his injury. Finally, he recognized the border between Hoshido and Nohr, and they landed in Hoshido.

- I'm not going any further; you'll have to walk to the Hoshidian capital. Goodbye.
- Wait! May I know your name?
- Very well, but I'll only say it once, so remember it. You were saved by Corrin, King Garon's third child, his Warhammer, and the idol of the Dragon Sect!!
- Corrin?! Wai…

Kaze didn't have time to finish his sentence before Corrin left faster than lightning, moving away from them at phenomenal speed. He looked away from the prince only when Rinkah regained consciousness.

- Kaze? Where am I?
- Rinkah! We were saved.
- But by who? And why is your face pale?
- Because I just witnessed the resurrection of someone I thought I'd never see again. We must act quickly; Queen Mikoto must know.

Several hours later, in Nohr, in the banquet hall:

- Glory to my brother Corrin, the Warhammer, for having passed his first test! May his life be filled with glory and happiness!
- Corrin, even if you know how to defend yourself, I will always be your right-hand woman, my beloved brother.
- You can count on me and my spells to help you, Warhammer.
- Yeah!! I'll be there to heal every wound, Corrin!
- Thank you all! I will never fail and I will honor my new title, but also you, my brothers and sisters!!

Meanwhile, in Hoshido's throne room:

- I assure you, Queen Mikoto, he told me his name was Corrin. And I don't see why he would give me a false name.
- You say he was the one who inflicted his injuries on you?
- Yes, Prince Ryoma. But he was also the one who secretly saved me. I believe he really is Prince Corrin.
- Thank you for your valuable information, Kaze. I always knew you were loyal. We must go and retrieve Corrin at all costs.
- But, Mother, it would be too dangerous, and King Garon could use this as an excuse to declare war on us.
- I know, but we can’t leave Corrin there. I’ve been waiting for my son to return for years, and now that I know he’s still alive, I must go find him.
- He’s probably not the son you knew…
- He saved Kaze even though King Garon ordered him killed. I’m convinced there’s good in him. Don’t worry, Corrin, I’ll do everything I can to reunite us.

Chapter Text

(One Year Later)

Xander hated royal receptions. To him, they were just a waste of time that served only to please those idiot nobles. He didn't want to shed blood unnecessarily, but he almost envied Corrin, who was currently fighting and missing his boring receptions. It was a good thing his other siblings were there, because he couldn't survive the boredom without them. It was at that moment that Camilla came up to Xander.

- (Ca) Aren't you going to greet the nobles?
- (X) You know I hate them. All they do is brag and play petty games.
- (Ca) You're a noble too.
- (X) Except I really want to make a difference, not just be on the throne.
- (Ca) You idiot, you've already done a lot for Nohr. Like training our dear Corrin and opposing that Sect.
- (X) Maybe but I feel like it's not enough. Do you remember when we visited Corrin, he was covered in his own blood from being tortured by the Scale-Bearer?
- (Ca) I could never forget that. Our dear Corrin was isolated most of his life, tortured to make him stronger, and now Father has condemned him to a life of fighting by naming him Wharhammer.
- (X) I swear revenge for any suffering Corrin has ever endured.
- (Ca) We all promised each other we would avenge him. Besides, where is Corrin?
- (X) Apparently, there was a rebellion in a land, and Corrin went to restore order.

At that moment, the doors to the hall opened, letting several people in. Among them was Corrin, dressed as usual in his Sect clothes. In barely a year, he had become a handsome young man with a body toned by battle. New scars covered his face, and a beard was slowly beginning to grow. His metallic right arm had received new modifications and enchantments, strengthening it. But Corrin's personality had also changed since becoming the Warhammer. He was more withdrawn and colder towards others. Corrin didn't even greet the nobles who strayed from his path; fear and worry could be seen on their faces. Corrin had accumulated several warlike exploits in barely a year, which had earned him the respect but also the fear of others, for these exploits had been created in the blood of his enemies, such as killing a hundred enemies in the Royal Arena. Xander and Camilla stepped forward to greet their brother.

- (Ca) Corrin, my darling, I'm glad to see you again.
- (X) It's good to see you again. I was getting bored without you.
- (C) I imagine you can't stand these parties. Don't worry, I can't stand these kinds of parties either.

As he spoke, Corrin lit a cigarette and put it in his mouth, a bad habit he'd picked up.

- (X) You know it's bad for your health?
- (C) I know.
- (X) And yet, you continue.
- (C) I need a break sometimes, and cigarettes are the best way for me to relieve my stress.
- (Ca) Just be careful with that, darling.
- (C) Thank you for worrying about me, Camilla.
- (Ca) You know I'll always be there for you.
- What a kind thought you give your brother, Camilla.

Corrin could recognize the deep voice that had just spoken among a thousand others. He immediately knelt before King Garon and bowed his head.

- (C) My king.
- (G) Corrin. I hear you've once again put down a revolt.
- (C) That's right, my king.
- (G) Hmm, you take your role as a Warhammer to heart. So I have a new mission for you.
- (X) Father, Corrin only just returned…
- (C) I have no problem with that.
- (G) I expected nothing less of you. Tomorrow, you will leave with Elise and your vassals to a fortress that has fallen into disrepair. You will be responsible for restoring and defending it just in case.
- (C) I will gladly complete this mission, my king.
- (G) I hope so.

King Garon left, leaving a strange impression on everyone in the room. Corrin stood up and took a deep breath. He had little time for himself, and he had to complete the missions and battles King Garon gave him.

- (C) If you're looking for me, I'm at the hot springs.
- (X) Corrin, wait...

Corrin didn't turn around and headed for the hot springs. He intended to enjoy the rest of his day, and if anyone really wanted to talk to him, he could just come and find him.

Chapter Text

The hot springs were Corrin's favorite place. They allowed him to relax and reflect. Corrin threw his clothes in a corner and entered the hot springs. They were mixed because in Nohr, hot springs were places of meeting and peace as long as one respected the privacy of others. Corrin entered and walked along the pebble path to a pool. He went fully inside and instantly felt the hot water wash away the dirt and dried blood on his body. It was one of the few good times of the day where he could relax and forget his problems and worries. Ever since he became a Warhammer, he had traveled constantly to fight and kill King Garon's enemies. It had only been a year since he left the fortress, but he missed the peace and quiet there. He were lucky he had his brothers and sisters because he probably would have gone mad with everything he had endured. It was then that he heard soft, thin footsteps behind him.

- (C) You know I can hear you, Camilla.
- (Ca) My darling, you have such good hearing. It's no wonder I can never surprise you.
- (C) No, it's just that I'm used to your little jokes.
- (Ca) Except you like my little jokes.

As she spoke, Camilla dropped her towel and gently stepped into the water, right next to Corrin.

- (C) Are you serious? What if someone comes in?
- (Ca) My retainers are outside, so we have the hot springs to ourselves.
- (C) I don't know if that's a blessing or a curse…
- (Ca) You haven't moved away or run away, so I think it's a blessing.
- (C) I'm still waiting to see if you're not.
- (Ca) You say that, but you're happy for us to be together and alone. Admit that you're happy to have a big sister as beautiful and caring as me.
- (C) You're sometimes too caring.
- (Ca) Like when I come at night to kiss you? It's weird, you never push me away.
- (C) Did you come here just to tease me?
- (Ca) Not really. You're constantly doing missions for Father, you barely have time to sleep or eat, I'm worried about you.
- (C) I promise you, I'm fine. After all, I survived the loss of my right arm.
- (Ca) And you're proud of it? It never should have happened, you should still have your arm. Father was so reckless to send you hunting a Helldrake at 10 years old. When you came back covered in dried blood and ash and missing an arm, I thought my life was over.
- (C) Camilla, I'm not a child anymore.
- (Ca) Yes, you're a skilled warrior and a good man, but if you keep this up, you could die.
- (C) Because you think I chose to become a warrior? Every day, I endured excruciating torture, training that nearly killed me several times, and its scars are proof that my life has boiled down to holding a sword.
- (Ca) My deepest wish is that you shouldn't have held a sword.

Corrin didn't answer; they both knew there was no going back. They spent a few moments together, embracing in silence. Camilla's skin was soft and she smelled as good as a flower. Her purple hair cascaded down her back, her figure was beautiful, and her "feminine attributes" were large, even though Corrin didn't really pay attention to such details (boobs are boobs -\_(-_-)_/- ). He got up first.

- (Ca) Aren't you staying?
- (C) I'd like to, but I have to do something else.
- (Ca) Next time, maybe we can sleep together...
- (C) You're really pushing your luck, but you know I'm not going to say no.

He walked away from the hot springs, got dressed, and headed for the castle basement. He had one last thing to do before he could sleep.

Chapter Text

Corrin took his time descending the stone stairs that led to the catacombs. This staircase was one of King Garon's best-kept secrets; only he, the Scale-Bearer, and Corrin knew of its existence. But it wasn't the stairs that gave Corrin goosebumps; it was the room below. Large, circular, and filled with people. King Garon had allowed the Dragon Sect to settle here, and Corrin had, for the past year, been revered by the thousands of followers. He had learned the entire Codex Draco, and he knew what to do at meetings like this. When he appeared in the room, all the followers fell silent and looked at him with admiration, fanaticism, and fear. He walked to the stone stage, and the crowd of followers parted to let him pass. He stepped onto the stage and spread his arms. Red-robed maids came up in turn and removed his cloak and shirt, leaving him bare-chested and exposing his scars. A maid brought him a dagger, and he stabbed himself in the stomach.

- (C) Look!! This is the blood you worship!! For a year now, you have had the chance to see me and touch my blood!! I am the idol of your cult, and you must obey me!! You believe in me to bring peace to the Three Kingdoms, and I will not disappoint you. I only ask that you follow me!! Keep your faith intact, and I will lead you to glory!!! Pledge allegiance to the future Dragon King, pray with all your soul, and you will see that day come!! Follow me, and all your hopes will be fulfilled!!

The hall echoed with the applause and cheers of the faithful. Corrin sprinkled the first row with his blood, and some wept with joy, for the Codex Draco said his blood was like an elixir of strength and luck. He quickly withdrew from the stage to walk the corridors that connected the worship hall to the others. There were restrooms, training rooms, and more, but Corrin headed for the furthest one and pushed open the door. He immediately recognized the torture chamber with the chains on the walls, the machines, the heat emanating from the lava river that ran through the room, and the worshippers in bloodstained black robes. Corrin knelt, and the torturers chained his arms to two stone columns. He felt the chains snatch the skin from his back, the knives pierce his flesh, and the tiny droplets of lava burn him. He had been subjected to this torture all his life "to make him stronger and train his body," and after a while, he had learned to accept the pain. His body had grown accustomed to this daily torture, and with the Scale-Bearer's training, he had become stronger. He waited patiently for the usual three hours to pass before the torturers released him. He looked in a mirror and, as usual, he was covered in blood and his scars had reopened. He cleaned the blood, covered his wounds with bandages, and got dressed. When he was finally able to leave, the Scale-Bearer was waiting for him.

- (SB) Lord, I hope your day went well.
- (C) Apart from the endless fighting, the torture, and King Garon not giving me time to rest? I'm fine.
- (SB) I'm sorry, Lord, but you must understand that...
- (C) You're doing this to make me stronger and unite the Three Kingdoms into a single empire. I know that phrase. I'm going to sleep.
- (SB) Very well, Lord. Have a good night.

Corrin went back up the stairs and headed for his room. The scars were about to heal, and the pain was already beginning to fade. But when he arrived in front his room, Elise was waiting for him. She didn't say a word; she knew very well what Corrin doing. She took him in her arms, and he didn't push her away. The two entered the room and lay down together. And for the first time that day, Corrin was able to completely relax without feeling like someone was trying to kill. him.

Chapter Text

Corrin looked through his binoculars at the fortress that stood before him. Black, large, and heavily armed, it wasn't really different from other Nohrian fortresses. But what bothered Corrin was that there seemed to be people inside, even though it should have been abandoned. The presence of Elise and her vassals, Effie and Arthur, reassured him, however. Gunter and Felicia were also with him.

- (El) So, big brother, what do we do?
- (Co) King Garon got bad information. From what I see, there are at least a hundred people.
- (Ar) Could they be outlaws?
- (Co) It's hard to say. It's impossible to know if they're soldiers or bandits. In any case, we're not going to back down; we have to inspect this fortress, and if they are indeed bandits, we'll take care of them.
- (Ar) Well said!
- (Ef) I'd like to avoid a fight that could compromise the security of Lady Elise.
- (Gu) I agree with Effie. We know nothing about the enemy; it would be dangerous to rush in directly.
- (Co) Then you'll have to face King Garon's wrath. Personally, my choice has already been made.
- (Fe) Me too. I must admit I have no desire to see King Garon angry.
- (El) Arthur, Effie, don't worry. With your protection and my brother's, I'm safe. Besides, I'm sure Corrin knows what he's doing.
- (Co) Thank you, Elise. We'll try to talk first and then we'll decide. Any objections?

No one refused his plan, and they walked out onto the bridge that led to the fortress and overlooked Bottomless Canyon. They raised their hands to show their peaceful intentions, and their enemies came out. To everyone's surprise, they weren't bandits or renegade soldiers, but Hoshidian soldiers.

- (HS) What are you doing here?
- (Co) I can ask you the same question: you are into a Nohrian fortress.
- (HS) Impossible. This fortress belongs to Hoshido. I don't know what you're doing here, but you came without bringing out your weapons, I grant you that. Now go and tell King Garon that this fortress belongs to... Aaaah!!

A knife plunged into the Hoshidian soldier's throat, killing him instantly. The other soldiers took up their weapons, and the battle began. Corrin struck Thorbjørn on the head of one soldier and decapitated another. Gunter and Felicia supported him, while Arthur and Effie protected Elise from those who dared to approach. Corrin slammed his steel fist into another soldier's jaw, destroying it and spraying the surrounding area with blood, before looking around. The Hoshidian soldiers were retreating from them, and half their troops had been wiped out.

- (HS) But who are they?! They just killed 50 soldiers and they're still alive! What are we going to do?
- (Co) You should have known better, Hoshidian. Now you're going to leave and…

Corrin didn't have time to finish his sentence before a shuriken flew past his head. He could see the silhouettes of three people in the distance. The first was a ninja with red hair and a mask covering half of his face. The second was another ninja with long black hair covering one of his eyes. But the third silhouette was that of a man in red armor holding a katana in his hand. He radiated a formidable charisma and incredible power. The three of them interposed themselves between Corrin and the Hoshidian soldiers.

- (?) Stay behind!! These Nohrians are no beginners!!
- (Co) Who do I have the honor of speaking to? A commander or a Hoshidian nobleman?
- (Ry) Both. I am Ryoma, Queen Mikoto's heir-prince, and these are my vassals Saizo and Kagero. What justifies your attack?
- (Co) Our attack? You seized this fortress when it belongs to Nohr.
- (Sa) Watch your words, Nohrian. Show respect to Prince Ryoma.
- (Co) I speak as I please to your so-called prince. Effie, Arthur, protect Elise. Gunter, Felicia, take care of the ninjas. I will fight Ryoma.

Effie and Arthur stepped back so they could better protect Elise just in case, and they charged into battle. Gunter took on Saizo, Felicia took on Kagero, and Corrin attacked Ryoma. Ryoma was clearly no weakling; he wielded the Raijinto katana, an electric weapon as powerful as Thorbjørn's, and he knew how to fight. His power matched Xander's, but Corrin had been preparing for this moment his entire life. He had endured torture, relentless training, and broken bones in an effort to avenge his mother, and his rage grew tenfold. The clash lasted for several minutes as weapons clashed, and neither side was able to gain the upper hand. Corrin felt fatigue rising from wielding Thorbjørn, but his rage extinguished his fatigue, and he repeated his attacks. Corrin feinted an attack with Thorbjørn and put a heavy punch on Ryoma. His armor protected him, but it was still damaged, and Ryoma's eyes widened at the sight of his metal arm.

- (Ry) A metal arm? Who are you?
- (Co) You're facing King Garon's Warhammer, Champion of the Arena, Prince Corrin!
- (Ry) Corrin? Wait, you're...!

The Hoshidian prince didn't have time to finish his sentence when an earthquake shook the bridge. The bridge creaked everywhere and became unstable. Suddenly, the ground shattered before Corrin's eyes, and he fell into the Bottomless Canyon. Soon, darkness covered him, and everything became blurry.

Chapter Text

Ten years ago.

Corrin had enough. For days, he'd been climbing steep volcanoes to reach the Helldrakes' natural habitat. The sulfur made it hard for him to breathe properly, and the ash coated his skin. He only had a pair of pants, a knife, and a chain, which King Garon said was enough to hunt a Helldrake. Corrin suspected King Garon just wanted to get rid of him. Even Camilla hadn't dared try to tame a Helldrake and had chosen a Wyvern, so why would a ten-year-old succeed? The lava flows grew larger and larger as Corrin approached the summit of the largest volcano. His feet were bleeding from walking on sharp rocks, and the sweat made the climb even more difficult. He hadn't eaten or slept for two days, but this torture was finally going to end. He finally reached the top of the volcano, where there were caves sheltering the Helldrakes. At that time, they were supposed to go hunting, but Corrin could see the black tail of a newborn. He wasn't even a month old, but he was already 3 meters long, he had sharp talons and a mouth full of sharp teeth. At least he was too young not to breathe fire, that was the only good news. Corrin sighed and untied the chain he had. He slowly approached the cave where the Helldrake had its back to him, careful not to make any noise. But when he arrived near the Helldrake, he took a powerful blow from its tail to the ribs that sent him flying. He landed heavily on the stone floor, miraculously having no broken bones. The Helldrake rushed at him, ready to tear him apart. Corrin dodged and he plunged his knife into one of his legs, but it had no more effect than a mosquito bite. Corrin dodged several more slashes from the Helldrake's claws; he had to thank his training sessions with the Scale-Bearer and Gunter. Even at 10 years old, he already had very good muscles and scars from climbing mountains with his hands or avoiding death every day, and he had reflexes that, in this kind of situation, allowed him to survive. The Helldrake was starting to get tired of its meal escaping it, and it began to want to swallow it whole. Corrin took this opportunity to pass the chain to create makeshift reins to tame it, but the Helldrake closed its mouth on Corrin's right arm. Blood began to flow profusely as the Helldrake sank its fangs in and shook its head wildly. Corrin could feel the bone slowly dislocating from his shoulder, and the Helldrake wasn't going to let go. He managed to grab his knife with his left hand and cut his right arm off at the shoulder. He forced it, and his right arm came off in a spray of blood. Corrin took one end of the chain in his mouth and the other in his left hand, and climbed onto the Helldrake's back. The Helldrake struggled with all its might, swinging Corrin onto its back. It was now just a matter of endurance. The two struggled for several minutes, but they held on. Finally, the Helldrake collapsed from exhaustion. Corrin was covered in sweat, blood still dripping from his amputated right arm, and after checking that his new mount was exhausted, he lay down beside it. The Helldrake looked at him with its large green eyes.

- (Co) Listen... you may have torn off my arm, but I managed to tame you... so I've proven I'm stronger than you... and Helldrakes submit to those who are stronger than them...

The Helldrake roared in what seemed like a roar of confirmation.

- (Co) That's what I thought... from now on, you'll be my mount... you need a name... why not Sa'Kan? It means "dismemberment" in ancient Nohrian...

Sa'Kan roared in admiration at his new name and stood up. Corrin did the same and mounted Sa'Kan. He had to hold the chain with his left hand, but he was used to flying with Camilla, so it would be easy. He felt that Sa'Kan wasn't completely submissive, though; he would have to train him, trying not to lose his second arm. They flew, and Corrin directed Sa'Kan toward Krakenburg.

Chapter Text

Ten months earlier

Corrin looked in the mirror to see how much he had changed. He had just celebrated his twentieth birthday, but King Garon was forcing him to return to the royal arena. It had been two months since he left the fortress and people had discovered his existence through the bloody gladiatorial combats. He had quickly won the public's affection and was already beginning to make a name for himself. Every three days, he entered the arena to engage in bloody combats and entertain the audience. Everyone came to the arena to see the "future champion," and his fame only grew. Today, it was going to be a fight with 50 gladiators, and it was going to be a real massacre. He sighed and dressed in his usual clothes, although he had removed his cape and added shoulder pads to his tunic for added protection. He tied back his hair and oiled himself, though it was more for show. He hooked his combat knife and swords to his belt and picked up Thorbjørn. He had gotten used to his weight and center of gravity, but he still wasn't used to fighting with an axe like her. His enchanted metal right arm sparked as Thorbjørn's dark magic met his own. Corrin walked over to the heavy door and swung it open. He continued down the corridor until he came to a gate that separated him from the center of the arena. The gate lifted, and Corrin entered the arena to a standing ovation from the spectators.

For once, there were no clouds, and the sun was shining brightly. The hot sand seeped into Corrin's shoes, and the wind didn't quell the heat. The arena measured 100 meters and was almost three times as long. At the very top, statues of the various champions stared down at the center with their stone eyes. The stands were filled with people shouting, insulting, or cheering the gladiators on, but the focus was on the obsidian grand box. Up there sat King Garon, along with Xander, Camilla, Leo, and Elise, who would be watching the fight. Xander gave Corrin a look of regret at having to let him fight. Corrin studied the other gladiators. Muscular, tall, oiled, and armed from head to toe with weapons. Some had spears, swords, or axes, but all were covered in scars and dust that bore witness to their time as gladiators.

The bell rang, announcing the start of the fight. Five gladiators ran toward Corrin. The closest one caught Thorbjørn in the face, and the others were sliced ​​by Corrin's swords. Corrin assembled them using the device on the pommel to form a large double-bladed sword in his left hand before picking Thorbjørn up in his right hand and throwing himself into the fray. From that moment on, the gladiators' fate was sealed. They could do nothing against the storm of steel and rage that was unleashed upon them. Corrin mutilated them, decapitated them, doing everything he could to make his enemies bleed. Sweat began to trickle down Corrin's forehead before mixing with dust and blood. The gladiators tried to attack Corrin together, but they didn't stand a chance; the prince fought like a devil. The barrage of iron was constant, the weapons beaded with blood, and the sand mingled with the shredded guts, intestines, and organs. Heads rolled, arms flew, but the flow of blood and screams didn't stop. Thorbjørn sliced ​​a ribcage in two, and Corrin was about to kill the gladiator to his left when he saw no one was there. He heard the cheers of the crowd chanting his name because he was the only gladiator standing.

The only one alive, surrounded by bones, blood, and mutilated corpses.

He looked at the royal box to find the grin of King Garon, the only one smiling at this massacre. Corrin bowed to the crowd before returning to the stone corridor that led to the locker room. He put down his weapons and rinsed off in the showers. When he came out, he looked at himself once more in the mirror.

- (??) Another massacre. You're chaining them.
- (Co) Don't you have anything better to do than annoy me?
- (??) You still don't get it? I'm in your fucking head. You're stuck with me, or rather, I stuck with you.

Corrin looked up to see his reflection smiling. The problem is, he wasn't smiling.

- (Co) Nirroc…
- (Ni) Did you see the massacre you created? Or rather, that I created?
- (Co) Why do you exist?
- (Ni) To make you feel better? To convince you that you weren't the one who just killed 49 gladiators. To convince you that you're still a good person. Except you're stuck with me, and with every fight, I take control of your body.
- (Co) You don't have to kill...
- (Ni) You don't understand. The purpose of my existence is to kill. I am YOUR desire for murder and violence, and I love killing.
- (Co) So taking a life doesn't mean anything to you?
- (Ni) You should have known by now. I'm here for one reason: to end as many lives as possible. That's why you don't stop during fights.
- (Co) Shut up...
- (Ni) How long will it take for you to completely switch to my side? To abandon your ideal of peace?
- (Co) Shut up.
- (Ni) Peri has already accepted this bloodlust. And you?
- (Co) SHUT UP!!

Corrin smashed the mirror with his fist, which now reflected his face distorted by anger. Nirroc always came when Corrin was alone, but he felt it when he fought. In every fight, Nirroc took control of his body and quenched his thirst for blood without Corrin being able to stop him. He had always been there, taunting Corrin and laughing at the chaos.

Corrin removed the shards of glass from his fingers and cleaned up the blood.

And as always, he left the arena, and the scent of blood followed him.

Chapter Text

Corrin opened his eyes, and instead of seeing the endless blackness of death, he saw clouds moving peacefully above him. The sun was high in the sky, a gentle breeze caressed his face, and he felt grass beneath him. He realized he was lying down and got up, feeling an unbearable pain throughout his body. He was in a field, mountains high into the sky in front of him, and a forest stretched to his right. Everything was a stark contrast to Nohr, so there was only one solution: he was in Hoshido, but how could that be? He had fallen into Bottomless Canyon; he should be dead, and he looked at his body. There was dried blood all over him, as well as dirt. Several wounds remained open, but most had closed. His clothes were torn, and he probably had several broken bones.

- (??) Once again, you find yourself in a hell of a situation. You'll have a lot of stories to tell your children, at least if you have any.

Corrin didn't even have to turn around to see Nirroc's mocking smile; he could feel it. Nirroc had changed, but only physically. He was still the same asshole, and he looked just like Corrin, but with red hair. Nirroc started out white like him, but after each fight, his hair grew redder and redder, as if he were drinking blood of Corrin’s opposents.

- (Co) Seriously, if this is just to hear you talk nonsense, you'd better shut your mouth.
- (Ni) But that would be too much of a loss! I love watching you slowly sink into the madness you contain, and that's all I can do.
- (Co) You could help me, stop being an asshole, and let me live without that little voice in my head telling me to kill everything I see.
- (Ni) Do you really think I can become like that?
- (Co) Of course not. You'll stay the same until I die, and you'll never leave me in peace.
- (Ni) You've completely figured out my role. I'm here to ruin your life, to make you want to die when you're forced to live.
- (Co) In short, You're the kind of friend that no one would want to have.
- (Ni) Who said I am a friend?

At that moment, a scream echoed through the forest. It was Elise's voice, and she sounded like she was in danger. Corrin started running as hard as he could, his body refusing to move forward. He only had his dagger left, but he had to hurry to Elise to defend her. He felt blood seeping through his pants, but he forced his legs to run. He plunged into the forest, following Elise's screams. Very quickly, his strength left him, and he found himself out of breath. His broken bones didn't help, but he still made it to the heart of the forest. There, he saw Elise covered in dirt, leaning against a tree, and surrounded by several Hoshidian soldiers. Corrin didn't wait and drew his dagger, plunging it directly into a soldier's throat. The others, caught off guard, didn't have time to counterattack. They were killed in seconds by Corrin, who rushed towards Elise.

- (Co) Elise!! Are you okay?!
- (El) Y-yes. They... they've been chasing me for days. Corrin, how did we get transported to Hoshido? The last thing I remember was me falling into Bottomless Canyon.
- (Co) I don't know any more than you do. But we have to get to Nohr. In my condition, I won't be able to hold out much longer, and you can't heal me now.
- (El) Wait, Corrin! There are others chasing me!

More footsteps were heard, and they found themselves surrounded by Hoshidian soldiers, but they weren't the main threat; it was the three soldiers behind them who were in command. Corrin could see a female samurai, a lancer riding a pegasus, and a small girl with pink hair. It was the same feeling he'd felt when he saw Ryoma and his retainers. The female samurai began to speak.

- (??) Nohrian warriors!! Submit and put away your weapons!! We won't hurt you then!
- (??) I'd like you to accept his offer. I wouldn't want to stain my clothes; it takes time to be perfect.
- (??) P-please... surrender... you're in no condition to fight...
- (Co) Elise, stay back.

Corrin assessed his chances of winning. His body was too tired and injured to resist, and without his weapons, he wouldn't be able to kill all the soldiers, and certainly not the other three. But he couldn't surrender; he didn't know if the Hoshidians would truly spare them. If he were alone, he could have surrendered, but with Elise behind him, it was impossible. He taken his bloody dagger and threw it towards the pink-haired girl. This distracted everyone, and Corrin managed to kill a few Hoshidians before their attention returned to him. He dodged, killed, dodged, killed. Little by little, the number of soldiers dwindled, despite Corrin's growing fatigue. He had his metal arm to thank for dealing enormous damage, even killing his enemies outright. He had killed half the soldiers when he felt his strength failing him. He was running out of blood and risked passing out in a few seconds. He had to put all his strength into a single attack that would decapitate the snake's head. He gathered the last of his strength into his legs and leaped over all the Hoshidians to arrive right in front of the pink-haired girl. His vision went black as he raised his metal fist and put his last spark of consciousness into this attack. But he felt a spear and a katana pierce his sides, and the last liter of blood remaining in his body spilled out as he fell into a dreamless sleep.

Corrin woke up for the second time that day, but this time he was lying in a prison with a wooden roof and bamboo bars. He got up but realized he barely had room to move cross-legged and that his metal arm had been removed. He checked the strength of the bamboo with his one hand and was surprised by its resistance. He didn't have the strength to pull on it anyway; he was covered in bandages, and dirt still clung to his skin. He felt better, rested, despite his injuries and lingering fatigue. He saw Hoshidian tents behind the bars, and the soldiers were going about their daily tasks. Corrin noticed that the soldiers were avoiding the prison as if they were afraid of him. He also saw a larger cage imprisoning Elise, and his rage grew so strong that he felt capable of tearing the bars off. It was at that moment that someone stood in front of him. It was the woman with the katana. She had long brown hair and wore armor with pink clothing. She looked at him with anger.

- (Co) What?
- (??) You're Corrin, right?
-(Co) So, they talk about me in Hoshido? I'm glad to see that even the samurais are afraid of me.
- (Ha) Don't get me wrong. I have my own reasons to hate you. And I have a name, it's Hana, and I'm one of Princess Sakura's retainers.
- (Co) Nice to meet you, Hana. Unfortunately, I don't see why you're mad at me. I killed someone close to you?
- (Ha) Worse than that. But you'll find out soon enough.
- (Co) If you say so. Otherwise, why did you heal me and spare me?
- (Ha) Our orders are to bring you back to Shirasagi Castle and deliver you to the royal family.
- (Co) Just that?
- (Ha) Don't be insolent, you're the one in the cage. And if you're wondering, we didn't hurt your dear Elise.

Hana left, her long hair swaying in the sun. Corrin took a deep breath and lay down, considering what to do. The Hoshidian royal family would probably kill him, which was why he had to find a way to free Elise. But in his condition, he had very few options, and none of them were good. In the end, he just watched the sun sink through the bars.