Chapter 12: Uprising

Dusk had fallen on Nohr, the sun ceasing what little light it offered. In one of the many rooms in Castle Krakenburg, Corrin had collapsed in a bed to get some much needed rest. But sleep eluded the young prince, and as he tossed and turned strange dreams plaguing his mind.

He was hovering in the sky, up far above the clouds and peering through them to the distant ground below. Rolling hills of emerald green, white early morning mists slowly rolling over them and small towns and villages dotted over it all. Corrin didn't recognize the place. It certainly wasn't Nohr, but it didn't look like Hoshido either. Without his control, he began to move forward through the air. The landscape scrolled beneath him, seemingly idyllic and peaceful.

"What is this place…?" He spoke aloud to himself.

His mind hazed by the dream, he simply watched as he was taken for a scenic tour of the strange locale. He saw larger cities, vast farms, meandering rivers and towering mountains all across it. Peering closer, he saw that the architecture was nothing like he had ever seen. Not the brick utility of Nohr, nor the curved grace of Hoshido. He started to descend, coming down towards a large hill. Shaking his head in bemusement, he let himself be placed down lightly on the hill. Stumbling slightly, he landed on his feet. The hill offered him a panoramic view of the area all around him, and for a few moments he simply stood there and started.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Corrin spun around to face the voice. Standing behind him on the hill was a man wearing a rough cloth robe, hood covering his face. Corrin could only just make out the lower half of his face, the robe covering the entire rest of his body. The man stepped forward, gesturing to the landscape before them.

"It always looked best with the spring mists, I think."

Corrin shook his head, trying to clear the haze. "Is… Is this a dream?"

The man came alongside Corrin, smiling slightly. "Yes, I suppose so. This is a dream."

Corrin nodded slowly. "I thought you dreamed of places you've seen before. I've never seen a place like this."

The man nodded. "That is how things work normally, yes. But sometimes, our dreams are more than just memories of the past. Sometimes, they can have great relevance for our future."

A great wind suddenly began to blow over the hills, almost knocking Corrin right over. He struggled to keep his balance, turning to face the cloaked man who simply stood there unaffected.

"What's happening?" Corrin shouted, raising his voice over the howl of the wind.

The man pointed up. "The dream is ending. I hope we can meet again, Corrin."

Corrin followed the man's finger and looked into the sky. The sun suddenly seemed dimmer, a shadow being cast over the land. No, that wasn't it. The sun wasn't dimmer… It was being blotted out. A vast shadow, hovering just above the clouds.

"Who-"

Corrin was cut off by an ear splitting roar that ripped across the plains, shattering the peace and forcing Corrin back onto his knees. With a rush of wind, the shadow descended from above with black flames rippling off it. It was vast and indistinct, but Corrin could see the flapping wings and the burning red eyes. Fear suddenly washed over him as he recognized the shape.

"A dragon…"

Then the impossibly huge monster spewed black flames over the hill, and Corrin screamed in the sudden and very real pain that engulfed his body. He writhed and struggled, feeling like he was being smothered in the curling fire. Corrin screamed again and started lashing out in terror and panic with all the power he had.

"Corrin! Corrin!"

The voice penetrated the dream, bringing him out of the fire and chaos and suddenly back to the real world. He was tangled up in his sheets, face covered. He swiftly pulled himself out and gasped in a deep breath of air, looking around the room in a panic.

"What?! Where am I?"

From across the room, Silas looked at him with concern. "Corrin, you're in Castle Krakenburg. It's me, Silas."

From within his mind, Caim grumbled. YOU HAVE BEEN THRASHING AT SHADOWS FOR AWHILE NOW.

Corrin sighed, still taking deep breaths. "Right… Right. It was just a dream. Just a dream."

Silas approached. "Anything you want to talk about?"

Corrin shook his head, untangling himself from the sheets. "No, I'm fine. It was just a foolish dream. What… What did you need me for?"

Silas shrugged. "If you say so. King Garon has requested your presence in the grand hall."

Corrin rubbed his eyes. "So soon? I feel like I've barely slept"

Silas laughed. "It's well past noon."

"Well, still."

"... that's noon yesterday since you went to sleep."

I'VE TRIED TO ROUSE YOU MULTIPLE TIMES.

That long? Corrin sighed. "Well, thank you for waking me, Silas. Please tell Father I'll be there as soon as I can."

"I will. And Corrin? It is normal to have… dark dreams. I used to get ah, I guess you might call them nightmares, all the time when I first became a royal guard. If you ever need to talk about it, I'm here for you."

"Thanks, Silas. But really, I'm fine."

Silas nodded and stepped out of the room. After he had left, Corrin got out of bed and wandered over to the mirror. He still had bags under his eyes, and his hair was a chaotic mess. He yawned, stretching out.

"And besides… I don't know if that was truly a dream or not."

DREAMS NEVER HAVE NO MEANING. Caim advised him.

Half an hour later, Corrin was rushing through the halls towards the Grand Chamber. It had taken him longer than he had liked to get his armour on properly, and to get his hair tamed into some semblance of order. Garon was not known for appreciating lateness. Running around the corner, he finally found himself at one of the many large oak doors that led into the Grand Chamber. Pausing, he took a breath and gave himself one last check over to ensure everything was in place. Then, deciding not to delay further, he pushed the doors open and stepped through. As expected, Garon was sitting on his throne looking sombre. However he had an unexpected guest next to him.

"Well, look who finally decided to get out of bed."

Corrin shook his head in amazement. "Leo!"

The elder Nohrian prince smiled, wearing his full royal armour. "It's good to see you again, brother. You've grown a lot since we last met, I suspect."

Corrin rushed over to him, resisting the urge to give him a hug in front of Garon. "But- Weren't you on a mission?"

Leo nodded. "Mine is finished. Much like you, I'm here to receive a new one. Now hush, brother. We can finish our reunion after talking with father" He turned to King Garon and bowed slightly. "Now that Corrin is here, may we begin the briefing in earnest?"

Garon shook his head. "I await one more child before we begin."

The doors creaked open again, and Azura stepped out. She had changed out of her old dirtied and torn robes, now wearing a smooth black dress more in fashion with the Nohrian style. It parted at the waist to allow for freedom of movement, and had buckles and clasps across it ready to attach armour plating or carry weapons. Much like the other royal garments, it was made for war.

"Father. Brothers. Apologies for my lateness, I came as soon as I was able."

Corrin smiled. "Azura!"

Leo looked startled. "Azura… So the rumor was true, then? You recovered her from the Hoshidans?"

Corrin nodded. "Yes. It was quite the strange story, but best saved for another time."

Azura strode across the hall, nodding to Leo and bowing to Corrin. "Good afternoon, Father. And to you too, Prince Leo. It is good to see you well."

Leo nodded. "Indeed. It has been rather a long time since we last spoke. Truth be told, I had given up all hope of ever seeing you again."

"It has. Please, I do not mean to intrude in your lives. Do not allow me to cause any disruption to you."

Leo shook his head. "Nonsense. You're still family, just like the rest of us. That is true, right Father?"

Garon nodded. "Indeed. Myself and Azura have spoken in private in the last few days many times. I have learned of her time in captivity, and the dignity with which she has carried herself this entire time. I gladly welcome her back to our courts as a Princess of Nohr.

Azura bowed again. "Thank you… Father."

"I will expect from you what I do of all my children. And this is why I have called the three of you here. There is a threat brewing within our kingdom, and there is no better time to build on your experience and to stamp out an infestation."

Leo gently smiled at both of them. "We can catch up more later. Please, explain the situation Father."

Garon cleared his throat. "Presently, I have Xander assigned to finding a way to breach Hoshido's defences. Reports from him are promising. But we cannot proceed on this front, because a threat has emerged within our own territory. A rebellion."

Leo stepped forward, gesturing the the map on the table before them. "Cheve. One of the first countries that Nohr absorbed into the empire. It has been one of our most loyal and stable allies for many years. And now, they are revolting."

Garon growled. "No doubt spurred on by Hoshidan instigators. They believe that just because our concentration is gathered at the border, that can do as they please within our kingdoms."

Leo nodded. "Indeed, reports indicate some Hoshidan presence within Cheve. Presently, the rebellion is focussed to the rural districts. Farmers, gatherers, hunters and the like. People easily manipulated and gathered into mobs. However, if this spreads to the central cities then it will cause serious trouble for the war effort. We rely on Cheve for food supplies, as well as being a staging ground for an invasion force into Hoshido. We cannot allow it to dissent."

Corrin nodded. "I understand. So, what is going to be done?"

Garon gestured to Corrin and Leo. "A show of strength. Doubtless, many of our other states are watching with keen interest. If they see Cheve succeed even slightly in their rebellion, then they will follow suite. We must show these rebels what happens to those who cause trouble. As such, I am sending the two of you to deal with this situation. I cannot afford to have my own empire turning against me at this critical stage of the war. I do not just want this rebellion stopped, I want it destroyed. Send a message to other such miscreants, and it will enforce peace in Nohr."

Leo nodded. "Understood, father. It will be done."

"Good. I leave the details and planning to you. Take what soldiers you need, and whatever resources you require."

Leo and Azura bowed again, and Corrin bowed uneasily alongside smiled, and nodded to the both of them.

"I have no doubt all of you will bring pride to Nohr. Go, and keep your county safe. You are dismissed."

Leo,Corrin and Azura stood and walked towards the exit. Garon watched them leave, waiting until the oak doors had closed and their footsteps had faded away. He let out a sigh, staring down at the map in front of him.

"We will win this war, Arete. I swear it."

As soon as the trio were out of the hall, Leo turned to Azura.

"It's simply incredible that you managed to make it here. Tell me, how on earth did it happen?"

Azura looked down at her feet. "After the war began in earnest, many patriotic Hoshidans started to see anything Nohrian as a threat. A more extreme faction decided that I was a threat to their safety, and should be executed as a spy."

Leo nodded grimly. "I've heard tales of this from my own spies. Those with no links to Nohr except the bad luck of their heritage, families who've defected to Hoshido and lived there for decades. It's always the same. I would have hoped they would have at least protected you better."

Azura shrugged. "They treated me well, but I suppose there was always a divide between myself and them. I was taken to a remote mountain fortress, far from the eyes of the capital. I was simply very lucky Corrin happened to be passing through the exact same area at the time."

Leo patted Corrin on the back. "Lucky indeed. Well done, brother. You've managed to achieve what I've spent many long nights strategizing about- you've brought back the lost princess of Nohr."

Corrin rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Well, it was just luck. But I'm glad I was able to help."

Azura nodded to both of them. "And I am most thankful. I do admit, it has been a strange period of adjustment. But I… I hope you will be able to accept me here, despite where I have been in the past."

Leo nodded. "Of course, Azura. You know, none of us royalty have the same parents. Blood isn't what binds us, but we're family all the same. I'm very glad to have you back, sister."

Azura smiled. "And I suppose I am… glad to be back, brother."

Leo gestured down the hall. "Now, come. Tell me all about yourself as we walk. I suppose we have a lot of catching up to do."

After around ten minutes of walking, they were finally nearing their destination. The topic of conversation had drifted away from Azura and towards the oncoming conflict.

Leo led ahead of them. "My own agents have been gathering information in Cheve for awhile now. My reports claim that a leader has emerged, some highborn girl with delusions of grandeur. She currently has a small regiment of the Cheve army under her banner, and has roused a sizable mob of peasants."

Azura fell into step alongside Leo. "I believe you are talking about Scarlet, correct?"

Leo nodded. "Yes, I believe that was her name. How did you know?"

Azura shrugged. "Before I was taken, Ryoma was discussing ways to strengthen their position in Nohr. Scarlet had sent a messenger requesting aid."

Leo frowned. "Thank you for this knowledge, Azura. It is going to be a big problem if they can secure Hoshidan aid. We must act swiftly and decisively."

Corrin nodded. "So, if she was to be removed then the rebellion would likely fall apart."

"Yes, my thoughts exactly. Her soldiers will likely stay loyal, but I believe that if she is killed then the main populace will fall in line quickly. Are… are you alright with that, brother?"

Corrin shrugged. "Do I want to go and execute someone? No. But I've learned since we last met, Leo. You can't go around trying to save everyone. Sometimes, you do have to take harsh measures, for the good of everyone else."

AND IT TOOK YOU WELL LONG ENOUGH TO REALIZE IT. Caim growled.

Leo smiled proudly. "I'm glad to hear it. We will, of course, try to minimize casualties. These are still our people, however deluded they might be. Some of the more serious upstarts mays serve time in prisons or labour camps, but for most this should simply be a reminder that we cannot afford infighting in this time of trials."

Azura sighed. "Such is how the world has come to, I suppose."

They rounded a corner and came into one of the many large armouries that were in the castle. Already gathered there was Camilla and Silas. The elder princess nodded to the three of them as they entered.

"Azura, darling, you look wonderful in those new clothes. Certainly fit for a Nohrian princess. Ah, Leo. So you've finally finished your task as well. And Corrin dear, out of bed at least."

Corrin waved to his sister as he approached. "Yes. I'm finally feeling better, at least a little bit. Have you heard about our mission?"

She shook her head. "Only a summary. Leo has called us here to discuss strategy for our assault. Should we begin, brother?"

Leo shook his head. "No, I want to gather the rest of your forces. I hear you've assembled quite the fighting force, Corrin."

Corrin shrugged sheepishly. "Well, most of them just decided to tag along. I didn't go out of my way to recruit anyone."

Azura patted him on the back. "And yet they're all loyal to you, Corrin. It's quite the feat to have achieved."

Leo smiled. "Indeed. Leadership does not come naturally to all of us, but I'm glad to see you've taken up the mantle. Now, we have matters to attend to. Knight Silas, was it?"

Silas gave a small bow. "Prince Leo. It is an honour to serve alongside you in this mission."

Leo nodded back. "I've heard many good things about you. Now, we need to gather our forces. Knight Silas, would you please go fetch the rest of Corrin's strike force? Oh, and go find my retainers first. Doubtless, they've gotten themselves into all sorts of trouble."

Corrin heart sank. For a moment, in the joy of seeing his brother again, he had forgotten the terrible news he had to deliver to him. Camilla, likewise, looked away. Azura remained impassive. Silas stood there awkwardly, twiddling his thumbs. Taking a deep breath, Corrin stepped forward.

"Leo… I have to tell you something. A terrible failure I have commited."

Leo stared back at him. "What happened? I only arrived in the capital this morning."

Silas slipped away to go gather the others while Corrin tried to find the words. Eventually, he decided the best way was to be direct. Leo had always told him not to fluff his words.

"Odin… Odin is dead. He was killed at the sevenfold sanctuary on Notre Sagesse by Hoshidan forces."

Leo froze. He shook his head. "Corrin… Are you being serious?"

Corrin nodded. "I… I'm afraid I am. Leo, I'm so sorry. It was my fault, and I couldn't protect him when he needed it. I'm so sorry."

Leo leaned forward heavily on the table, letting out a long, slow breath. He shook his head.

"I can't believe it…"

Azura spoke up. "It is true, Leo. Both Odin and Arthur fell at the hands of a Hoshidan fire priestess."

Leo took a shaky breath. "He was more than my retainer. He was my friend, as strange and eccentric as he was. Did… did he die honourably?"

Corrin nodded. "He saved my life. Without him, the warrior would have finished me."

"And Arthur? He has fallen as well?"

"...Yes."

"That explains why I haven't seen Elise since I arrived. The poor girl must be in tears."

"I'm so sorry, Leo. I don't know what to say."

Leo growled. "It's not your fault, brother. If the Hoshidans hadn't made this war so difficult, none of this would have happened." He thumped the table. "We were THIS close to winning before that spirit trick of theirs. How many more are going to die because they've dragged this war on longer? Curse them."

He paced back and forth, hands clenched behind his back. Corrin, Azura and Camilla could only watch awkwardly as their elder brother finally relented and stood back in front of the table with a sigh.

"I… I'm sorry. This is no time to become sentimental. If I become distracted now, then things will only become worse. We'll just have to do better. I won't fail again."

Camilla moved in, grabbing both of them by around the necks in a crushing hug. "Of course, brothers. Now that we're all together, there's nothing we can't do. We'll crush the Hoshidans and end the war."

Leo winced at the sudden pressure. "Erk- yes, of course. Odin wouldn't want us to lose sleep over his death. But there will be a monument, I think. A large statue commemorating him, that's the sort of thing he'd love."

On the far side of the room, several people walked in led by Silas.

From amongst them, Niles laughed. "Yes, inflating his ego even from beyond the grave. He'd love that."

Leo nodded to his surviving retainer. "Niles. It is good to see you well."

"As well as can be, Milord. Now, I think it's time to manage our next steps. Odin's statue will have to wait."

Beruka and Selena sat down by Camilla, and Silas ushered the others in. Corrin quickly counted heads. Niles, Nyx, Beruka, Selena, Felicia, Azura, Lilith and of course Silas. Two missing.

"I suppose Effie is with Elise, then?" He asked.

Camilla nodded. "She's still in her room, poor dear. Effie hasn't left her side since… the incident. She's going to sit this one out, I think."

Leo walked to a table at the centre of the armoury, rolling his map out over the table. "That sounds appropriate. Now, everyone. For those who I have not met before, I am Prince Leo of Nohr. Corrin has recruited you as soldiers of Nohr, and as such I will trust that you are all loyal. Even if some of you seem… odd."

He stared pointedly at Nyx, who was huddled in the corner wrapped up in her cloak. She ignored him. He coughed and carried on.

"I know it has only been a few days since your last mission, but a new situation has emerged. Everyone listen carefully, I don't want to explain this twice."

He pointed down to Cheve. "There's a filthy rebellion brewing in Cheve. Myself and Corrin have briefly debilitated about the best course of action, but I am going to lay it out here in detail. The rebellion is headed by a local hot head named Scarlet. If she were to be killed, the rest will crumble around her. As such, a surprise attack will be our best option. Stomp them out before they have a chance to cause any harm. I'm going to use a warp spell to teleport us right into their village."

Corrin remembered Leo's attempts at warps, back from what he had seen of them at the tower. They barely went from room to room. From what he knew, it was a complicated spell that only Mages of great talent and experience could use, and usually only when bolstered by a source of external power.

Corrin spoke up. "Brother, I thought you couldn't use it properly. Didn't you teleport yourself into a wall several times?"

Leo coughed. "Yes, but that was years ago. I'm much better at it now."

Nyx laughed. "Oh, great. The boy can jump to the next room and now he thinks he can manage to warp us all across three countries."

"I've trained since I could speak in the arcane arts. I've been practicing warp since before you were born."

She scoffed. "Somewhat unlikely. But think as you will. I'm sure all this 'experience' of yours will work just fine."

Leo grit his teeth and continued. "I WILL open a warp into Cheve. It will work, and they certainly won't be expecting it. My spies have reported the village this girl is gathering forces in. With the element of surprise, we rush her down and kill her, along with any other loyal forces. After that, we stay a few days to round up any other stragglers and remind the populace of their loyalty to Nohr. Any questions?"

Selena raised her hand. "Yeah. Not to be rude, Lord Leo, but… you sure about this warp?"

He thumped a fist onto the table. "Of course I'm sure! This is the most efficient and safe way to solve this conflict, and with minimal loss of life. Unless you have another way?"

Selena flinched back and fell silent. Leo looked around, ensuring nobody else had any questions.

"And that's our plan. I'm going to open a portal to Cheve in two hours. I expect all of you to be gathered here then, prepared for battle. Understood?"

The room chorused agreement. Nyx swiftly left the room, while Selena and Beruka assisted Azura and Camilla with sorting through the armoury. The others filed out of the room to see to their business. Corrin approached Leo.

"Brother… Are you alright?"

Leo nodded tersely. "You have some interesting friends, Corrin. Is it truly wise to bring such a young girl along into combat?"

Corrin laughed nervously. "That's an interesting story. She's actually older than most of us, she just looks like a child…"

Leo shook his head. "That sounds most improbable. Still, if you think she's necessary to bring along then I'll put up with her barbs" He turned back to the table, starting to draw some calculations in the margin.

Corrin coughed. "One more thing, Leo. I know you probably don't want to hear it, but… Are you sure you can manage the portal? I've seen you try before. Are you sure there isn't an easier way? A safer way?"

Leo rounded on him. "Yes, I'm sure there is. We can spend the next two weeks marching to Cheve on foot, give them time to amass power and assistance from Hoshido, and be ready for us with an army twice the size. I've been the strategist for Nohr's armies most of my life, and my decisions get people killed every time. I've just lost one of my closest friends. And I'm not blaming you, or myself, but I'm not going to make any more mistakes. Trust me on that."

Corrin stepped back at the sudden onslaught of words. "Okay, Leo. I do trust you. But like you said to me… Don't beat yourself up over it. It wasn't your fault."

He looked back at the map. "Yes, I know. Now please, I need to make some calculations. This is going to be complicated, I won't deny that."

Corrin nodded, and stepped back. Over the years, he had come to understand how Leo hid his emotions away behind a mask of indifference. Leo was deeply hurt, but Corrin didn't know what to do. So he turned away and walked across the room to where Camilla was directing her two retainers and Azura to organize their supplies, Lilith standing next to her bringing various loot from the astral realm. She smiled at him as he walked up.

"It Leo being difficult again?"

Corrin nodded. "I don't blame him. He and Odin seemed close."

"You do form a close bond with your retainers. Ican't imagine what I'd do if I didn't have Selena or Beruka around."

Behind her, Selena grumbled. "You'd probably have to start doing your own work."

"What was that, dear?" Camilla asked in a tight voice.

"NOTHING!" Selena Squeaked.

Camilla looked back over at Leo with a sad frown. "It does hurt to see him torment himself over this. He's always had too much responsibility, ever since he became a strategist."

Azura placed a large greatsword into the pile. "From what I remember, he placed a large burden of responsibility on himself even as a child."

Camilla nodded. "That's one thing I can be thankful for, I suppose. I've never had to do anything more than the missions father assigns me. Leo also has to balance that with essentially overseeing most of the Nohrian army's tactical decisions."

Corrin rubbed his head. "I'm beginning to understand how he feels. Father's relentless. Is this how it always is? Mission after mission after mission. Do you ever get a break?"

Camilla shrugged. "Sometimes. That's when I'd visit you, of course! Those are some of my best memories. You were so cute when you were a little boy! It made all the work I had to do worth it when I could come and relax out at the tower, away from all the responsibility and tasks. Xander and Leo liked it too, although they'd always try to pretend they were visiting for other reasons. Do you remember that?"

Corrin smiled. "Leo used to bring me books. He'd claim he was just visiting to make sure my education was being kept on track, and that I wasn't spoiling the books he gave me. After awhile, he stopped asking about the facts I'd learned and more about how I was doing. He never gave it up, though. To embarrassed to admit he'd just come to visit me."

Camilla nodded. "You were a safe haven, Corrin. For all of us. A place away from Father's gaze, away from the stress. You'd always want to play games, to hear stories about our lives. It was like getting to be a child again, I suppose."

Corrin nodded back. "Camilla? Thank you."

She looked bemused. "Whatever for, darling?"

"You were helping me, too. You didn't have to come all the way out into the middle of nowhere, but you did. And it saved me. It kept me motivated to do all the training, all the reading, to make sure that I'd be able to impress all of you the next time you came along. I don't think I ever thanked you, though. So thank you."

Camilla crushed Corrin in a bear hug. "Still as cute as ever, Corrin. But it's good to see you're all grown up now. And I couldn't be prouder of my little brother."

Corrin hugged her back as well as he could while wedged in her vice grip. "I'm proud to fight alongside you, big sister."

She released him and turned to Azura. "And you too, of course." She grabbed her into a quick hug that Azura quickly wriggled out of.

Azura looked quite flustered. "I, um, you don't have to hug me, La- Camlilla."

The elder princess laughed. "No, you're part of the family now. What kind of family would it be if we didn't hug each other? You're just as cute as Corrin is, little sister."

Azura's face burned red, and she quickly busied herself with sorting a set of swords. "Th-thank you… Sister."

Camilla smiled. "See? We're a family, all of us. Don't you worry Corrin, Leo'll get out of his mood soon enough. We just have to be there for him when he needs help. Now, the last thing you want to do is keep him waiting. Make sure you're ready."

Corrin nodded. "Of course. I'll go make sure everyone else is prepared. See you soon."

"Likewise. And Selena, dear, don't think that just because I'm having a heart to heart it means I can't see you slacking off."

Selena jumped up from where she had been leaning against the wall. "Wha- Have you got eyes in the back of your head or something?"

Beside her, Beruka jabbed her with a club. "Get to work. Don't make Milady mad."

Camilla smiled. "As she says. Now, Lilith, let's move on to spears. I want everything you have in that little castle brought out in order of length."

Corrin walked away with a smile. Yes, times were tough. But he knew his bond with his family was unbreakable. It was what he was fighting for, more than anything. With a much lighter step, he walked out into the castle to check on everyone else.

Everyone else had been doing fairly well. Felicia was ironing all of her and his clothes, and surprisingly doing a fairly decent job. The fact that she had Silas watching her every move probably helped. That just left Nyx and Niles, who he had been simply unable to locate. Once he heard angry shouts and arguing coming from a distant corner of the castle, however, he knew he'd found them. He quickened his step towards the noise, hoping he wouldn't be too late to stop any major fight. Their voices drifted down the halls as he grew closer.

"I warned you, Niles. If you did not stop this foolish teasing, then I'd be forced to take drastic action. Well, you've gone too far now."

Corrin heard Niles laugh. "Do your worst, little girl. If your plan is to bore me to death with threats, then it's definitely working."

Corrin rushed around the corner just in time to see Nyx's hand light up in purple energy.

"Theag en snoucli!"

A bolt shot out from her outstretched finger and hit him right between the eyes. He blinked, apparently having barely felt it.

"What? What did you do?"

Beneath her cowl, Nyx smiled. "I cast a spell. You should find your vocabulary significantly more restricted now."

Niles grinned. "Nice try, but I don't feel any different than I did a moment ago. You know what happens to little girls who lie? They get _ _ _!"

Only a dull wheeze came out of his mouth at the end. He frowned, and released another such gasp. He coughed, clearing his throat and trying again to no avail.

"Huh?! What did you do to me?"

Nyx turned away from him. "I told you already. That foul language of yours has been cleaned up. I don't make empty threats, child."

Niles brimmed with anger, taking a step forward. "Nyx! You change me back right now, or so help me I'll _ _ _! Argh!"

Nyx shrugged. "If you wish, I could mute you entirely. Perhaps then we could all have some peace. Is that what you want?"

Niles simmered for a few moments before backing down. "Just you wait. I'll get back at you, somehow. You'll regret this, you _!" He paused, frowning. "This is incredibly annoying, I'll give you that."

He stalked out of the room, brushing past Corrin as he did so. Corrin breathed a sigh of relief as he saw nothing serious was going to happen. Across the room, Nyx sat down at one of the tables. Corrin saw that they were in some kind of cramped records room, filled with many shelves of books and pages.

"That curse won't cause him any harm, will it?"

Nyx scoffed. "It should wear off in a day or too without causing the poor fool any lasting damage. I'm not cruel enough to curse anyone for life."

Corrin stepped in and sat down at one of the chairs. "Nyx, things have moved so fast that we've never really gotten a chance to talk in awhile. How are you doing?"

Nyx sighed. "I'm perfectly fine, boy."

"It's just, this next mission looks to be our most dangerous yet. I don't want to force you to come along if you don't want to. Do… do you want to keep traveling with us?"

The cloaked mage looked away from him. "I'm not sure. Being back amongst… people… again like this has reminded me why I left. They all judge, they all assume. Even that brother of yours, supposedly wise beyond his years, sees only the child. It was easier when there was nobody else around."

"... Do you want to go back to the forest?"

She sighed. "Let me finish, boy. While it's certainly been a challenge having to deal with idiots like Niles, it's also been… well… fun is the word, I suppose. For a hundred years I languished in that bog, telling myself it was what I deserved. And it still is. But being able to walk, to travel, to see how the world has changed… It's been the highlight of the century to me, I think. And you, Corrin. You're but a boy, and yet I can tell the world is changing around your actions. The sword at your belt is proof enough of that."

Corrin nodded, laying a hand on the Yato. "I'm glad to hear that, Nyx. I'm going to do my best to live up to what the Rainbow Sage told me, and the legacy this sword holds."

Nyx smiled. "I can tell you will. And for that reason, I think I will follow you for awhile longer yet. If nothing else, to see how your story unfolds."

Corrin smiled. "It's good to have you along, Nyx. And… If Niles is bothering you, I can tell him to mind his own business."

She snorted. "Oh, please. I can manage someone like him. Besides, he's not entirely unpleasant. It is quite enjoyable to have someone to spar words with someone again, after all these years. Even if he is far more crude than the debate I have been used to in the past. Now, go. I'm sure you have more important things to do than waste time with an old woman."

Corrin stood up from his chair. "Alright then, Nyx. While I'm here, is there anything else I can help you with?"

She shook her head. "I'm fine."

He looked around at all the books. "If you need help finding something, I can bring one of the servants-"

She cut him off. "That won't be necessary. I'm just taking a break away in here, away from anyone else."

"See you back at the barracks, then."

Nyx nodded. "Indeed."

She watched him leave, waiting until the doors were closed and his footsteps had faded away. Then she pulled out the book she had hidden in her robes, one taken off the shelf. Its covers were frayed, but the title was still visible: Artifacts of Magical Power in the Modern Era. She resumed reading, searching through its pages for an answer.

"Sorry, child, but I've no desire to burden you with this. It's a problem for me alone to solve. There has to be a way, somewhere..."

Corrin only had one more place to stop. He navigated the halls and came to one of the many residential suites that were scattered through it. He'd asked the servants, and discovered that this was the one that Elise was staying in. Sure enough, standing right outside the door was Effie standing a watchful guard. She nodded at his approach.

"Milord. Apologies for not attending the meeting. Gotta make sure Elise is safe."

"It's fine. I just came by to say that you're relieved from this mission. Look after Elise, although I'm sure you don't need me to tell you that."

She nodded. "Yeah. I won't let anyone hurt her."

"That's good. How… How is she?"

Effie shrugged. "Sleeping. Barely spoken since we came back. I try to comfort her whenever she comes out for food."

Corrin grit his teeth. "Gods. I feel like a failure of a brother."

"No more than I'm a failure of a retainer, Milord. I… I don't know how to defend her from this. I could fight a dragon for her, but I don't know how to kill sorrow."

Corrin smiled sadly. "Whenever I was sad, she'd always be happy for me. So happy I couldn't stay sad while she was around. I guess it's our turn to be that for her, now."

Effie nodded slowly. "I understand. I'll do my best."

The two stood there in silence again for awhile, Corrin not knowing what else to say and Effie seeming perfectly fine with the quiet.

ASK HER HOW SHE IS, YOU FOOL. Caim cut in.

"What?"

ASK THE PLATED ONE HOW SHE IS FEELING! EVEN I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A 'HUMAN' THING TO DO, IS IT NOT?

Caim did have a point. He cleared his throat. "And how are you doing yourself, Effie?"

She looked at him blankly. "What?"

"How are you feeling? It can't be easy for you, either, losing Arthur."

She shook her head. "How I feel isn't important. Lady Elise is my only priority."

"It does matter, Effie. You need to look after yourself as well, you know. Have you had any sleep since we came back?"

Corrin could clearly see the bags under her eyes. She shuffled awkwardly.

"... I can't leave lady Elise unguarded. Not now."

"I admire your dedication, Effie. But if you're exhausted, then you're not going to be able to protect her. Take a rest. I can send some other guards to watch her for a few hours."

She shook her head adamantly. "No. I'm fine. Don't concern yourself with me, milord." She rubbed her tired eyes, wiping away a small tear.

"Effie…"

"She's all ready in pain!" She burst out.

Corrin fell silent. The heavily armoured knight took a deep breath.

"Lady Elise… She saved my life. Without her, I'm nothing. Arthur and I dedicated our lives to protecting hers. I'm her shield, and Arthur was her blade. And now Arthur's dead, and she's in so much pain. I've failed already."

She slumped down against the wall, her exhausted legs finally giving out after two days of vigil. Gritting her teeth, Effie stumbled back to her feet. "I won't fail her again. I'll protect her from everything that would try to do her harm. Please, Milord, trust me on that."

Corrin had no idea what to do. He wasn't used to seeing the usually stoic knight so emotional. He reached out a hand and clasped her by the shoulder.

"I trust you, Effie. I know you'll protect her. And… And you haven't failed. Thanks to you, she's safe. That's what Arthur would have wanted, more than anything."

Effie wiped her eyes again, settling her face back to her familiar neutral stare. "Thanks for your kind words, Milord. I… I will rest, tonight. Just let me keep watch, a little longer."

He stood up. "Alright, Effie. Please, do rest. When you get the chance, tell Elise that I'll be back in a few days."

The knight nodded. "I will. Take care, Milord."

Corrin nodded back with a smile, and turned to walk away. Before he could, though, the door to Elise's room creaked open.

"Where do you think you're going, Big Bro?"

It was Elise, fully dressed in her combat dress, holding in her staff and healing kit.

"Elise! You're awake!"

She smiled. "Yup! And don't think you're leaving without me, Corrin. I'm not going to be left behind."

Corrin frowned. "Elise… This isn't going to be an easy mission. I think it would be best if you stayed here while we were away."

Effie nodded. "He's right, Milady. Stay here, where it's safe."

Elise shook her head. "Nope! That's not gonna happen. You wanna know why?"

Corrin sighed. "Why, Elise?"

She looked down at her feet. "Because… Because it's what Arthur was always talking about, you know? All his talks about justice and peace. About getting back up after you get hit down. He always had the worst luck, but he never got sad, or upset or complained. He always kept on walking with a smile. That's how I wanna be. So I'm going with you, and that's that. I'm gonna make Arthur proud!"

Effie shook her head harder. "He would want you to be safe."

Elise gave Effie a hug. "Yeah, but he'd also want to keep doing what was right. If Corrin's out there bringing peace, then I've got to be out alongside him."

The knight nodded slowly, patting Elise on the back. "Alright, Milady. As you command. I'll be right there alongside you."

Elise grinned. "There you go. So we can come right, Corrin?"

Corrin sighed. He never could stand up to that smile of hers. "... Are you alright, Effie?"

"I've gone for longer than this without sleep, Milord. If I'm protecting Lady Elise, I'll be fine."

He nodded. "Alright then. I suppose I'll allow it. But stay at the rear, alright? Both of you. You can help with support, but I don't want either of you on the front lines."

"Understood, Big Bro! So, uh, when do we leave?"

"In less than an hour."

Elise squeaked. "Crap! Come on, Effie, I've got to pack!"

The two of them disappeared back into her room, rattling around to gather who knows what. Corrin sighed again, rubbing his temples. Elise certainly could be a handful. Still, it was good to see her back on her feet and cheerful again.

THE PLATED ONE CERTAINLY SHOW DEDICATION. SHE IS… A FINE SPECIMEN. SHE WOULD MAKE A FINE DRAGON.

"I'm going to assume that's a compliment. Now, we've only got a little while left. It's time to get back to the armoury."

Despite his rush to reach the armoury, Corrin got lost in the winding halls and had to ask a servant for directions. By the time he got there he was the last to arrive, everyone else already gathered in full battle gear. The tables and chairs in the centre had been moved aside, and a large circular rune drawn onto the floor with chalk. Felicia waved as he entered, holding out a plate with a cup of tea on it.

"W-Welcome, Milord! Have some tea!"

Corrin smiled back, accepting the plate. "Good to see you haven't gotten hurt, Felicia." He took a sip. "And it tastes… Normal. Did you make this?"

She smiled. "Yup! And it only took me four tries this time!"

Before Corrin could ask about the other tries, Leo stepped up in front of them. "Alright, I think it's time to form up. Elise, can't I convince you not to come along?"

Elise was standing next to Effie, pouting. "Nope. I'm coming along, and that's final. Besides, Corrin already said I could come!"

He sighed. "Corrin, why'd you let her talk you into it…"

Corrin shrugged helplessly. "I think it's for the best."

Leo shook his head. "I understand. Listen, Elise, I need you to stay at the back, alright? I've made my calculations but there's no telling exactly what's going to be on the other side. Stay back, and stay behind Effie" He nodded to the knight. "I'm leaving her protection to you."

Effie nodded. "I won't fail you!"

Leo gestures to the floor. "As you can see, I've prepared a warp sigil. I've triangulated our ideal staging location. It's a large hill just outside of the town. From there, we should be able to approach undetected and take them down. Camilla, Beruka, Silas, have you stored your mounts in this… Astral Plane? I don't quite understand how this works. Is my horse doing alright?"

Lilith nodded, holding up the crystal ball. "They're all safely inside. And your horse is loving it in there!"

Leo nodded. "Right. Now, everyone needs to enter the circle. Get into formation, prepared for battle. We can't guarantee exactly what we're going to encounter on the other side."

As everyone started to arrange themselves, Nyx walked around the perimeter of the circle. "Hmm…"

Leo looked over at her. "Something else to complain about?"

She drew her cloak around herself. "No… Well done, boy. It seems to be flawless. Maybe you might just be able to do this without frying us all after all."

He nodded slowly. "... Thank you. Any advice?"

She shrugged. "I have no idea. I never bothered to learn how to warp."

Leo sighed. "That doesn't surprise me. Please, get into the circle."

After a few minutes of shuffling around they were fully arranged. Effie, Silas, Corrin and Selena made up the front line, while Nyx, Niles, and Leo were behind them for ranged support. Beruka and Camilla stood to the sides with Lilith, ready to summon their mounts and jump to the skies as soon as possible. Felicia and Elise were right at the back, with Azura beside them to serve as a guard. The army was prepared.

From the middle, Leo raised his hand. "Alright, we're going now. Be prepared, everyone. Weapons at the ready."

His hand became wreathed in purple energy the quickly seeped through his body and spread onto the chalk circle below. The runes began to glow an eerie violet, quickly illuminating the whole room. Leo closed his eyes and took in a deep breath.

"LOS VIOS INCTUM SI!"

The entire room flashed a bright white, blinding Corrin. He blinked wildly and his stomach turned inside out, feeling for a moment like he was entirely weightless. Then his feet hit a solid surface again. The impact was so jarring he fell down onto his knees. Next to him, Effie barely managed to stay upright. He kept blinking, trying to clear his eyes and take in his surroundings.

"Up! Up! Weapons up!" Leo yelled.

Corrin looked up and cursed. They were not standing atop a mountain at all. They were right in the middle of a village, and several confused farmers were sprinting away from them and yelling at the top of their lungs. Corrin jumped to his feet, drawing Yato.

WELL, AT LEAST THIS SKIPS PAST THE SNEAKING. LET THEM COME AT US IN TRUE COMBAT! Caim yelled in his mind.

The group quickly reformed, weapons prepared and ready. They seemed to be right in the centre of the village square, with several market stalls. Behind them was a large river that seemed to cut right through the village, with a small stone fort on the other side of it. Only a few bridges went across the river.

Leo cursed. "I was off by a few kilometers. We're right in the middle of the village. We need to move, now. Lilith, my mount!"

The astral dragon moved quickly, holding the crystal ball out and focusing. In a flash of blue light, two fully saddled horses appeared on the grass alongside two wyverns. None of them seemed particularly agitated. Leo and Silas quickly mounted their horses, with Beruka and Camilla hopping onto their wyverns. Looking over at the fort, Corrin could see several armoured men coming out of it and approaching.

"They're coming!"

Leo finished mounting the horse, directing it around to face the approaching force. "Camilla, Beruka, do not approach. I can see some archers amongst them. Split off to the flanks, come around behind once they separate out" He turned to Corrin. "Brother, I can't manage this whole army and fight at once. I need to you direct the front line."

Corrin nodded. "I understand. Silas, Effie, Selena, with me. We need to form a wall."

The four of them advanced ahead of the ranged fighters, weapons out. Camilla and Beruka swooped overhead, marking out the Chevios soldiers that were slowly approaching. Selena growled.

"Come on already! Stop damn stalling and fight, you cowards!"

Her voice echoed across the square. Seeming to hear her yell, the soldiers formed up into a solid offensive line and marched forward at a swift rate. Selena grinned.

"There. I just saved us ten minutes of waiting."

Corrin sighed, rolling his eyes. He was about to reply when a loud cry echoes back over the village. It wasn't human. From atop the fort, two large winged beasts launched off. One was clearly a wyvern, but the other looked unlike anything he had ever seen. It looked like a bird, huge and imposing and a brilliant white. There were two people riding it.

"What is that?" Corrin yelled.

Leo cursed again. "It's a Kinshi. A Hoshidan beast. Sky curse it, that means they're already here. The Hoshidans are already here."

Corrin peered closer at the huge bird, trying to catch sight of the rider. One looked like a woman with long blue hair and elaborate golden armour. The other was wearing a large brown robe with a hood that covered their head, and wasn't identifiable. The two mounts rushed over top of the Chevois troops and swooped down towards Corrin's group.

"PREPARE!" Leo yelled.

Beruka and Camilla started to move in to intercept, Niles notched an arrow and several spells started to be chanted. But just before they would come within lethal range, the riders doubled around and descended instead. They floated elegantly back to the ground, separated from Corrin only by the river.

The rider of the Wyvern waved. "Hey there! I don't suppose you're just here to admire the view, are you?"

Corrin tightened his grip on Yato. "Who are you?"

The rider dismounted. It was a woman, wearing bright red plate armour and carrying a long silver spear.

"Well, that's rude. You're invading my country, and yet you're not introducing yourself first. Ah, fine. I'm Scarlett, of the Chevois army. Who're you?"

Scarlett. The rebellion leader. Corrin stepped forward. "I am Corrin, prince of Nohr. We've come due to reports of a rebellion, led by yourself."

Scarlett shrugged. "True. And so I suppose Garon's sent his hounds to try and put us down, has he? Come to slaughter everyone who stands against his insane rule."

Corrin took another step forward. "That depends. You're the only one we need. If you surrender peacefully, the lives of your men would be spared. You would be… treated honourably."

She spat on the ground. "Killed and thrown into a ditch, more like. You Nohrians, you're all the same. All you've done is take, take, take from us for decades and given nothing in return. Only time you ever give a crap is when we step out of line. You think you can intimidate me? You're dead wrong. We'll never surrender!"

Behind her, the soldiers let out a cheer. Corrin sighed, gesturing to the others behind him. Slowly, they began to approach one of the bridges. Leo advanced at the head of the rear line, not willing to unleash fire just yet.

Scarlett smirked. "And so your true colours show. If we don't bow, then you'll crush us. That's the Nohrian way, right? That's not how things are going to go this time."

Leo shook his head in disgust. "Enough, child. You value yourself, and your rebellion, all too highly. Don't think that you can cause any true damage with a stolen Wyvern and a few farmhands you've given rusty spears. If you don't wish to suffer a humiliating defeat, then stand down now. Otherwise, it'll be your end. You'll be killed here, your bodies buried unmarked, your legacy that of brief annoyance."

Corrin winced at Leo's harsh tone. "But of course, that can be avoided if you stand down now. We would all prefer a peaceful resolution."

Scarlett shrank back a little bit, and the line of soldiers seemed to falter. Looking closer, it did seem that many of them were holding their weapons wrong, and some of them were using actual pitchforks. Not exactly a trained army. Corrin strode towards the bridge. If he moved fast and secured an early victory, then it was likely the others would surrender. It was the best solution in his eyes. A voice cut in before he could continue.

"You speak confidently. I had no idea Garon let his dogs have so much spark."

It was the rider of the Kinshi. She leaned back in her saddle, casually notching an arrow into her bow. Behind her, the robed man dismounted the beast and started walking forward.

SHE DARE TO INSULT US! STRIKE HER DOWN.

Corrin held out the Yato. "Who are you?"

The woman gave a mock bow. "I am Reina, Kinshi knight of Hoshido. I serve Queen Mikoto as her agent. You've been a rather naughty boy, prince Corrin. We've been sent to bring you home."

The man continued to walk forward. Corrin also took a step onto the bridge, trying to catch sight of who he was under the hood.

The woman continued. "I've been looking forward to this. I missed that first battle, out on the plains. But now, it looks like I'll be able to kill all the Nohrians I want. And you've got quite the entourage of villains standing alongside you, boy."

Leo snapped his fingers. "That's enough. Niles, stop her drivel."

The archer grinned. He swiftly pulled back his own bow and loosed an arrow straight for her heart. Reina didn't even try to dodge.

Corrin heard the man move before he saw it. A flash of steel whipping out of his cloak, a spark of impact as the sword was slashed out of the air. The sudden crackle of ozone as the air became charged with energy. Then his eyes caught up and he saw the cloaked man was now holding a long katana blade, crackling with lightning.

"That blade… It can't be!"

Reina nodded. "My thanks, Milord."

The man grasped his cloak and threw it off, revealing brilliant red armour beneath with smooth Hoshidan silk flowing off it. He was unmistakable.

"Corrin. So the reports are true."

It was prince Ryoma, standing tall and bearing the Raijinto which he sheathed in a smooth motion. Corrin froze up, ceasing his march. Behind him, even Effie stepped back in alarm. Ryoma radiated power, an aura of authority that seemed to even scare Leo. For a moment, the entire battlefield was frozen.

"Ryoma! What… What are you doing here!?"

Ryoma kept his face firm. "For the same reason as you, though for different reasons. Cheve has called for our assistance in finally overthrowing their Nohrian oppressors. We came here to assist them in that noble goal."

Reina smiled. "And by assist, we mean kill. All of you, if that's what it takes."

The army, apparently feeling confident again, began to advance. Scarlett laughed.

"That's right, you Nohrian dogs. This time, you're going to be the ones to lose!"

Ryoma shook his head. "Hold, all of you! Nobody attack until my signal. There's another option, Corrin. Lay down your arms, and return to us. Do so, and the lives of your soldiers will be spared."

Leo growled, shaking his head. "Don't listen to him, Corrin! Don't forget what we came here to do!"

Ryoma took a step onto the bridge. "Yes. Remember that you were sent here by Garon to murder an innocent woman who wants nothing more than to free her nation from Nohr's tyrannical rule. Look at what they're making you become! Is this truly what you want? Is this truly the path you have chosen."

Corrin snapped himself back to attention. "I'm doing what I believe is right. How long do you intend to drag out the war, Ryoma? If Hoshido does things their way then we'll have a stalemate for another decade. The war needs to be ended swiftly."

Ryoma shook his head. "Mother has personally requested that I bring you home alive, Corrin. She is very worried about you."

Corrin froze up again. "Mother… How is she?"

"She is very ill. The blade has crippled her, and it is all she can do to walk. But every day, Corrin, she asks how you are. If there is any news. Every day, I must lie and say there is no news. If she knew the truth, I don't know what she would do. Please, Corrin, let's end this now. Come back to your true family."

For a single moment, Corrin considered it. He considered putting down his sword, stepping across that bridge and out of the war. It was tempting, for a moment. But then he saw Effie and Silas at his side, ready to fight for him. He grasped the Yato in his hand, recalling the responsibility it held.

WHAT MEANING DOES ALL YOUR ACTIONS HAVE IF YOU ABANDON YOUR PATH NOW?

Corrin nodded. "I'm sorry, brother. But I can't go back to Nohr with you. My place is here, fighting to lessen-"

Corrin caught movement out of the corner of his eye. A glint of light. A scream rang out across the village, along with the wet crunch of steel impacting flesh.

"AAAAAAAAAH! BROTHER! EFFIE! HELP!" Elise screamed.

Corrin spun around. "Elise!"

At the rear of the group, with Azura and Lilith already bending over her, was Elise. She had collapsed to the ground, clutching her side. For a moment he was confused, unsure of what had just happened. Then he saw it.

The pitchfork sticking out of her back. The blood pooling out onto the grass around her. How her struggles slowly faded away to lying there limply.

Felica frantically held a healing stave over her. "S-S-She's not breathing!"

The calm was suddenly broken as everyone flew into panic. Effie charged back to Elise with a roar, putting herself between Elise and any other potential projectiles. Niles immediately fired back an arrow at Reina, but this one was blocked by her armour. Nyx started chanting frantically, dark energy building up. Niles and Selena held their position, unsure of what to do. Corrin could only stare.

Behind him, Ryoma turned to face his soldiers. "Who threw that?! I told you to hold fire until my signal!"

Leo had already leapt off his horse and was running to her side. "Hold on, Elise! Don't struggle!"

Corrin was barely paying attention to any of the sudden chaos around him. His blood had run cold, his breathing erratic. Elise. His dear little sister, who'd visited him more than anyone else, who always brought a smile to his face and who always kept a positive attitude. She was bleeding out on the dirt. Her face was contorted in pain. In his pocket, the dragonstone blazed with heat. In his mind, Caim's voice surged louder than he had ever heard it before.

HE DARES?! HE DARES TO ATTACK OUR KIN?! KILL THEM! KILL ALL OF THE FILTHY COWARDS!

Azura looked up, seeing Corrin standing stock still with clenched fists. Even at a distance, she could see the bright glow of his dragonstone. "Corrin, don't! You need to stay calm!"

YOU NEED TO KILL THEM! YOU NEED TO KILL THEM!

Corrin lifted the stone out of his pocket, holding it in his palm. The Yato was pulsing with power, feeling light in his hand. His head throbbed. All he could see was Elise, lying near death on the ground. His vision blazed red. Anger flooded through his body.

"RYOMA! SCARLET!" He screamed.

Ryoma turned to face him again, a worried look on his face. "Corrin, I swear to you, my troops did not throw that pitchfork. I swear on my honour!"

But Corrin wasn't listening any more. Another wave of power rushed through, leaving him gasping. Raw emotion, some his own and some from Caim. He felt like he barely had control over his own body.

LET ME LOSE! I'LL SHOW THEM THE CONSEQUENCES OF HARMING OUR KIN!

Standing over by Elise, Felicia gasped. "Oh no… No… Her pulse! Lilith, help!"

That drove Corrin over the edge. With a scream of fury, he crushed the dragonstone in his hand. No longer restrained, he changed almost instantly into his draconic form in a flash of red light. Ryoma stared at the imposing beast that had just replaced his brother. It let out a roar of fury and stomped the ground, sending out shockwaves that rocked the bridge. The Yato blade had melded onto the end of its tail, forming a lethal whip blade that sliced through the ground like butter.

Leo looked up at what had been his brother a moment ago. "Corrin! Stop disrupting the ground! You're making things worse!"

But it was not Corrin in control, nor was Caim. It was nothing more than a wild beast, spurred on by anger at something it didn't understand. All it saw was a small man standing on the bridge before it, and several equally tiny fools slowly backing away. They would pay. All of them would pay. With a screech, it leapt forward towards Ryoma with tail poised for death.

Standing in the shadows of an alley, a cloaked figure laughed. Behind them, several Chevois soldiers lay dead. They put down the several other pitchforks they had been holding, looted from the dead soldiers.

"The fool lost his mind after just one death. Hopefully, he'll kill everyone before he regains his senses."

It laughed again, cruel and mocking. Then it stepped deeper into the shadows and disappeared, leaving no trace it had ever been there in the first place.