Future to Believe In
Dawn broke over the encampment with unusual activity. For once, the sounds filling the air weren't the clash of training weapons or tactical discussions, but excited voices and hurried footsteps as final preparations were made. Somehow, in the span of three days, what had begun as teasing around a campfire had transformed into reality.
Lucina stood in Sarai's tent, trying to remain still as her stepmother adjusted the light ceremonial armor that had been hastily modified for the occasion. Traditional white had been replaced with deep Ylissean blue, complemented by hints of the dark purple that represented Odyn's elven homeland.
"Are you certain this isn't too much of a distraction?" Lucina asked, voicing the concern that had troubled her since agreeing to this seemingly impulsive plan. "The Fire Emblem—"
"Will still be there tomorrow," Sarai finished gently, echoing Cherche's words from days before. She smoothed the royal cape over Lucina's shoulders, its edges embroidered with golden thread that caught the morning light. "Your father insisted on this day of respite before we march. The scouts report no movement from Validar's forces. We can spare these few hours."
"Besides," Severa added as she entered the tent with an armful of wildflowers, "morale has never been higher. Even Frederick admitted it was 'tactically advantageous.'" Her impression of the knight's formal tone drew reluctant smiles from both women.
Lucina turned to examine her reflection in the polished shield serving as a mirror. The woman staring back seemed somehow both familiar and foreign—still a warrior, but softened. The Brand of the Exalt in her left eye seemed to shine more vividly against her flushed cheeks.
"Your mother would be proud," Sarai said softly, adjusting the simple circlet of silver leaves resting on Lucina's blue hair. "So proud of the woman you've become."
A lump formed in Lucina's throat. Though she had come to love her stepmother deeply, moments that reminded her of the mother she had lost in her own timeline still carried a bittersweet ache.
"Thank you," she managed, before Severa rolled her eyes dramatically.
"Save the tears for the ceremony," she ordered, though her own voice carried an unusual thickness. "Cynthia and Noire spent half the night setting everything up, and they'll never forgive us if we're late."
The clearing chosen for the ceremony had been transformed. Weapons had been arranged in ceremonial arches, their blades wreathed with early spring flowers. Shields bearing the insignia of every nation represented in their army formed a circle, creating a sacred space that honored both the martial necessity of their gathering and the hope that had blossomed within it.
Soldiers and time-travelers alike stood together, ranks forgotten for this brief interlude. Chrom waited at the center, Falchion held point-down before him in the traditional stance of an Ylissean royal blessing.
Midori and her mother Say'ri had designed a pathway of crossed swords following Chon'sin tradition, while Miriel and Laurent had calculated the precise angle to capture the morning light through the trees. Even Tharja stood nearby, dark magic glimmering subtly at her fingertips as she maintained protective wards around the gathering—"Just in case," she had muttered when questioned.
Lucina paused at the edge of the assembly, her heart suddenly racing faster than it ever had before battle. This wasn't the future she had journeyed back to secure—it was something entirely unexpected, a deviation from every plan and calculation.
"You look terrified," Kjelle observed bluntly, appearing beside her in ceremonial armor. "Need me to carry you in? You weigh less than my training lance."
"I'm not afraid," Lucina replied automatically, then amended with a rare moment of complete honesty: "Well, perhaps a little."
"More frightening than facing Grima?" Kjelle asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Different," Lucina admitted. "This is... choosing something. Not just fighting against something."
"About time," Kjelle nodded, then surprised Lucina by offering her arm in the formal manner of Ylissean knights. "Your escort awaits, Your Highness."
As they stepped forward, Lucina saw Odyn for the first time that day. The dark elven prince stood beside Chrom, his usual shadowy armor replaced with ceremonial garb that merged his people's traditions with Ylissean customs. The silver markings typical of his lineage seemed to shine against his skin, and his expression—usually so guarded—was transformed by something that looked remarkably like joy.
Their eyes met across the gathering, and suddenly the whispers and shuffling of the crowd faded away. This moment—impossible, improbable, unexpected—felt strangely like destiny.
"In times of war," Chrom began, his voice carrying across the hushed assembly, "we find meaning in what we protect. In who we protect." His eyes moved briefly to Sarai, who stood with one hand resting on her rounded belly. "Today, we celebrate not just a union between two warriors, but a declaration of faith in tomorrow."
Libra stepped forward, holy text in hand. "From distant lands and shattered timelines, you have found each other. Before witnesses both mortal and divine, you pledge to walk together whatever path lies ahead."
The traditional vows had been shortened—a concession to the reality that awaited them beyond this brief respite—but they carried no less weight for their brevity.
"I choose you," Odyn's voice was low but clear, the slight accent of his homeland more pronounced with emotion. "Across time and shadow, I choose you, Lucina of Ylisse."
His fingers, calloused from years of wielding both blade and carving knife, slipped a ring onto her hand—a band of dark silver inlaid with blue stone that matched her hair.
"I choose you," Lucina echoed, surprised by the steadiness of her own voice. "Through whatever fate awaits us, I choose you, Odyn of Umbramor."
She placed a matching ring on his finger—this one bearing the Mark of the Exalt, a gift from Chrom that had once belonged to her grandfather.
"Should the worst come to pass," Odyn continued, departing from tradition to add words of his own, "know that finding you made every sacrifice worthwhile."
Lucina's eyes stung with unexpected tears. For so long, she had carried the burden of a doomed future and the desperate mission to prevent it. To hear her own unspoken thoughts given voice by another who truly understood was overwhelming.
"Whatever future comes," she responded, "we face it together."
Behind them, she heard Cynthia sniffling loudly, while Severa hushed her with an unconvincing show of irritation that couldn't quite mask her own emotion.
Libra raised his staff, light emanating from it to encircle the couple. "By the grace of Naga and the blessing of all gathered here, you are bound in the sight of gods and companions alike."
Chrom raised Falchion, its blade catching the sunlight. "As Exalt of Ylisse and father of the bride, I recognize this union." A smile softened his formal demeanor. "And as someone who found love in the midst of war, I honor your courage to do the same."
Tradition called for a lengthy blessing, but in its place, a cheer erupted from the gathered soldiers—a release of joy so sudden and powerful that birds took flight from nearby trees. Lucina found herself laughing as Odyn's arms encircled her, lifting her briefly in a display of elven strength that drew even louder approval from the onlookers.
His lips found hers, and for one perfect moment, there was no war, no destiny, no burden of a broken future—only this unexpected present and the possibility of tomorrow.
The celebration that followed was unlike anything their army had permitted itself before. Tables had been assembled from whatever materials could be found, laden with food prepared under Stahl and Gaius's enthusiastic direction. Music filled the air as Olivia led several dancers in traditional performances from various regions, while barrels of ale—"strategically acquired" during their last visit to a village, according to Anna—were tapped to much approval.
"I've never seen such mixing of cultures," Takeo observed, watching as soldiers from Ylisse, Regna Ferox, Valm, and the elven territories mingled freely. "A glimpse of what peace might look like."
"Worth fighting for, isn't it?" Lucina replied, surveying the scene with a mixture of wonder and determination. This moment of unity and joy—this was what they had traveled back in time to protect.
Chrom approached, carrying two cups. "A word with the bride," he requested, leading Lucina slightly away from the main gathering.
Once they stood apart, he handed her one of the cups, his expression growing serious. "You know what awaits us," he said without preamble.
"Validar," Lucina nodded. "The Fire Emblem."
"Tomorrow we march," Chrom confirmed. "Robin has developed a strategy that should allow us to infiltrate the Dragon's Table before the ritual can be completed."
Lucina felt the familiar weight of responsibility settling back onto her shoulders. "I'll be ready."
"I know you will," Chrom's expression softened. "But tonight—just for these few hours—be present. Be happy. Consider it an order from your Exalt if you must."
A smile tugged at Lucina's lips. "Yes, Father."
"Besides," he added with unexpected lightness, "your new husband seems to be handling himself admirably with your aunt."
Lucina turned to see Lissa engaged in animated conversation with Odyn, her hands moving expressively as she clearly recounted some embarrassing tale, judging by his widening eyes and occasional laughter.
"Should I rescue him?" Lucina asked, amused.
"He married into the royal family," Chrom replied with a grin. "Learning to handle Lissa is part of the package."
As they rejoined the celebration, Lucina found herself passed from group to group—the women who had orchestrated the entire affair insisting on dances, toasts, and increasingly embarrassing advice for the wedding night. Severa seemed particularly determined to make Lucina blush, while Noire presented a small charm intended to "ensure fertility" before immediately apologizing for her boldness.
"You don't regret this?" Cynthia asked during a quiet moment, gesturing toward the celebration. "Getting married now, with everything else happening?"
Lucina considered the question seriously. "I spent years living only for the mission," she finally said. "Focused only on preventing catastrophe. I never thought about what might come after—if we succeeded."
"And now?"
"Now I have something else to fight for," Lucina replied, her eyes finding Odyn across the gathering. "Not just preventing a terrible future, but building a good one."
Night had fallen when the final guests retired, leaving the newlyweds alone in a tent that had been hastily decorated by their well-meaning friends. Severa and Cynthia had strewn wildflowers everywhere, while someone—likely Tharja—had placed protective wards around the perimeter that pulsed with soft purple light.
"So," Odyn said with uncharacteristic uncertainty, "we're married."
"It appears so," Lucina agreed, suddenly shy despite everything they had already shared. "Rather quickly, at that."
"Too quickly?" he asked, a shadow of concern crossing his features.
Lucina shook her head, reaching for his hand. "No. In our world, perhaps this is exactly the right speed. Who knows what tomorrow brings?"
"Tomorrow brings Validar and our attempt to reclaim the Fire Emblem," Odyn answered pragmatically, though his fingers intertwined with hers. "But tonight..."
"Tonight is ours," Lucina finished, drawing him closer.
Outside, the camp settled into silence broken only by the calls of night birds and the soft murmur of changing guards. Tomorrow would bring renewed focus on their mission—strategies and weapons, courage and sacrifice. The fate of the world still hung in the balance, the Fire Emblem still needed to be reclaimed, and Validar's plans still needed to be thwarted.
But for these few precious hours, they had claimed something just for themselves—a fragment of the future they were fighting to create.
And when dawn broke, they would rise together to face whatever came next, carrying this moment with them like a talisman against despair. Not just warriors against a doomed timeline, but partners in creating a new one.
A future worth believing in.
The next day....
The Dragon's Table
Dawn broke with none of the previous day's gentle warmth. A cold mist hung over the camp as soldiers rose from brief respite, their movements purposeful and subdued. The celebration of the night before seemed like a distant memory—a fleeting dream from which they had all awakened to hard reality.
Lucina emerged from her tent, no longer dressed in ceremonial finery but in the practical attire of a warrior princess. Falchion gleamed at her hip, freshly polished. She found Odyn already at the command tent, his wedding ring now hidden beneath battle gauntlets, though she could see a thin leather cord around his neck where his own ring now hung close to his heart during combat.
"Sleep well, princess?" Severa asked as she approached, her teasing tone from the previous days replaced with businesslike efficiency as she checked her weapon.
"Well enough," Lucina replied simply. Their eyes met in brief understanding—yesterday had been a gift, a momentary reprieve. Today belonged to duty.
Inside the command tent, Chrom stood over a map, Robin at his side as they discussed strategy in low, urgent tones. Frederick hovered nearby, his normally stern expression even more severe than usual.
"Ah, there you are," Chrom acknowledged as Lucina and Odyn entered. "The scouts have returned."
"And?" Lucina's voice was steady, all traces of the blushing bride vanished beneath the mantle of the warrior she had been forged into since childhood.
Robin's expression was grim. "It's as we feared. Validar has moved to the Dragon's Table. And he's not alone."
"The Grimleal?" Odyn asked, his elven features unreadable.
"All of them, it seems," Frederick answered. "Every follower from across Plegia appears to be converging on the Table. The scouts report they move like... like those possessed. Speaking only in fragments about appointed times and offerings."
Lucina felt a chill that had nothing to do with the morning air. "It's happening," she said quietly. "Just as in my timeline. The gathering, the ritual... it all leads to Grima's resurrection."
The tent fell silent as the weight of her words settled over them. This was what they had been fighting to prevent—the very cataclysm that had destroyed Lucina's future.
"Then we make for the Dragon's Table," Chrom decided, straightening to his full height. "Immediately. Whatever Validar plans with the Fire Emblem, we must stop him before it's complete."
"I've formulated a strategy," Robin added, pointing to various marked positions on the map. "We'll approach from the eastern ridge, using the terrain to mask our numbers. If we strike quickly enough, we may reach Validar before—"
"Before he can complete the ritual," Lucina finished, her hand unconsciously gripping Falchion's hilt. "Before Grima can be summoned."
"Precisely," Robin nodded. "Though I must caution everyone—Validar will not be undefended. We should expect the full might of the Grimleal, and likely other... complications."
"What of Aversa?" Odyn inquired, his deep voice calm despite the gravity of the situation. "She remains his most devoted servant."
"And most dangerous ally," Chrom added grimly. "Yes, we must assume she'll be there, protecting him until the end."
The tent flap opened to admit Lissa, her usual cheerful demeanor subdued as she reported, "The army is ready. Everyone's just waiting for the order."
Chrom nodded decisively. "Then we march. Now."
The journey to the Dragon's Table was made in tense silence. Soldiers who had danced together the night before now marched in formation, weapons at the ready. The time for celebration had passed; only determination remained.
Lucina found herself riding alongside Sarai, her stepmother having insisted on accompanying them despite her advanced pregnancy. "I won't remain behind while my family faces such danger," she had declared when Chrom attempted to dissuade her. "I can still cast spells from the rear lines."
"Are you certain you should be here?" Lucina asked quietly, concerned despite knowing full well that Sarai had survived this confrontation in her original timeline.
Sarai's hand rested briefly on her rounded belly. "Some battles cannot be avoided," she replied with calm wisdom. "My child will be born into a world of peace or one of devastation. I would rather fight for the former than hide from the latter."
The terrain grew more desolate as they approached Plegian territory, the very land seeming to reflect the darkness that had taken root there. And then, rising from the barren landscape like a malevolent monolith, they saw it—the Dragon's Table.
"Gods," Cynthia whispered from atop her pegasus, hovering nearby. "It's even more ominous than I remembered."
"And look," Severa pointed, her voice tight. "The pilgrims."
Stretching across the plain was a procession of figures—hundreds, perhaps thousands of Plegians moving toward the Table with the eerie synchronicity of a single organism rather than individual worshippers.
Chrom signaled for the army to halt at a safe distance. "What's happening to them?" he asked, watching the villagers' slow march through his spyglass.
"They're offering themselves," Lucina explained, the memory of her future like a wound that never fully healed. "The Dragon's Table is where Grima feeds. The life force of the sacrificed gives him strength."
"We have to stop this," Odyn stated with quiet intensity. "Whatever it takes."
As they cautiously approached, they could hear the strange, disjointed murmurings of the entranced Plegians.
"...the appointed...time... ...to the Dragon's...Table... ...our prayers...Grima..."
Lissa edged away from a passing villager, her attempt at communication meeting with blank stares and more fragmented utterances. "Riiiiiight... I'll just be backing away slowly then..."
"This destiny is a stubborn business," Chrom muttered, frustration evident in his voice.
"We cannot give up." Lucina's voice carried the steel of absolute conviction. This was the moment all her sacrifices had been leading to—the pivotal point where fate could either be sealed or changed forever.
Chrom nodded, drawing Falchion. The sacred blade gleamed in the strange half-light that surrounded the Table. "And we will not. We make for the Dragon's Table, and quickly! Come, everyone!"
The army moved forward, breaking into tactical formations as they approached the massive structure. They had nearly reached the outer perimeter when a familiar figure emerged from the shadows.
"The Ylisseans have finally caught up to us," Aversa announced, her tone mockingly pleasant as she addressed someone still hidden from view.
"Delay them," came Validar's voice, cold and calculating. "But carefully... We must reclaim Robin's power."
"Ah, yes," Aversa purred. "Don't worry, I'll take extra care with Daddy's special little boy/girl."
Chrom pushed forward, Lucina and Robin flanking him with Odyn and Frederick just behind. "Validar!"
The sorcerer emerged fully into view, the stolen Fire Emblem gleaming at his chest. His lips curved into a cruel smile. "Fools! Do you know where you've come?"
"Return the Fire Emblem now, and we can end this!" Chrom demanded, though they all knew negotiation was futile.
Validar's laughter echoed unnaturally across the plain. "Aaah ha ha ha ha! You would...end this?"
"Yes," Chrom affirmed, "once and for all."
"My dear boy, we already know how this story ends—you and I both! And yet you rush here... Are you so eager to meet the fell dragon yourself? Or perhaps your own fatal destiny—you would have that realized first? Ha ha!"
Lucina stepped forward, her presence commanding despite her youth. "To hell with your destiny. We'll write a new ending."
Aversa's dark eyes fixed on her with amusement. "Oh ho ho, so now you believe you can change fate? And here I thought your exalted aunt had delusions of grandeur..."
"We've done it already," Chrom responded firmly.
"Your victory over sad little Gangrel? Or perhaps Walhart's defeat?" Aversa waved a dismissive hand. "Those were meant to happen. They were preordained. You are just another fool in motley, capering on the stage!"
Lissa pushed forward, her usual cheerfulness replaced by righteous anger. "But...what about Emmeryn!"
"You changed only the method of her death," Aversa replied with cold indifference. "Either way, she was planted in the ground..."
Frederick's armor creaked as his hands tightened around his lance. "But that was Gangrel's will... Not yours... Not Validar's..."
"You aren't listening," Aversa sighed with exaggerated patience. "All of this—every word and action—has been orchestrated... Gangrel held the exalt in contempt, yes, so Validar and I used him. In life AND death. The king's demise threw Plegia into chaos. It drove the people to Grima... Now their life force and rancor can be laid before the fell dragon en masse."
"You couldn't mean..." Chrom's expression darkened with dawning horror.
"It is called the Table for a reason, you naive little man. It is where Grima feeds! The Grimleal have gladly offered themselves to him for ages. Even now, they pray for his return... Today the Table overflows with bounty, and their prayers will be answered!"
Lucina felt Odyn's presence at her back, steady and unwavering. They had faced impossible odds before—had defied time itself to reach this moment. Whatever came next, they would face it together, as they had promised just the day before.
"I will never allow that to happen!" Chrom declared, raising Falchion.
Aversa's smile didn't waver. "But it already HAS happened in our future. This moment was set a millennium ago."
"How could anyone give their life willingly to that...thing?" Lucina demanded, her voice carrying all the pain of a future she had witnessed firsthand. "That monster!"
"I will stop you!" Chrom's voice rose with determination. "I will stop Grima!"
"Goodness! Now you're starting to sound like Walhart, the big bully..." Aversa's tone remained light, almost amused. "He intended to destroy Grima as well, you know. ...Our thanks, incidentally, for taking him off the stage for us."
Realization dawned on Chrom's face. "Rrgh... That's why you gave us your ships and treasure but no soldiers... Get rid of Walhart, but keep the faithful Plegians to set your god's Table..."
"Aversa," Validar interrupted, "it is time. I must prepare."
"As you command, Master." Aversa bowed her head in deference.
"Validar!" Chrom called as the sorcerer began to withdraw. "...VALIDAR!"
But Validar disappeared into the shadows of the Dragon's Table, leaving Aversa to face them with a cruel smile. "Master Validar is not to be disturbed. But fear not, I have brought the Deadlords to keep you entertained. These twelve generals were great warriors in life...and even greater, now, in death! I would introduce them one by one, but well, as you'll see, they're not much for talk. Besides, you'll meet them all soon enough!"
Around them, the ground trembled as twelve armored figures emerged from the shadows—the legendary Deadlords, their eyes glowing with unnatural light, their weapons radiating dark magic.
Lucina raised Falchion, its blade catching what little light remained. The sword that had sealed Grima once before—the sword that might prevent his rise again. Beside her, Odyn drew his own blade, the dark elven runes along its edge flaring with power.
"Ready?" he asked quietly, his eyes meeting hers.
The previous day's vows echoed in her mind: Whatever future comes, we face it together.
"Always," she answered, turning to face the approaching Deadlords.
Behind them, the army of Ylisse and their allies readied for battle. This was the moment that would determine everything—the culmination of journeys across time and space, sacrifices made and bonds forged. The fate that Lucina had traveled through time to prevent now stood before them, embodied in Validar and the ritual he sought to complete.
As the first Deadlord charged, Chrom's voice rang out: "For Ylisse! For the future!"
The battle for the Dragon's Table—and for time itself—had begun.
Destiny Unraveled
The Deadlords fell one by one before the combined might of the Ylissean army. With each victory, the path to Validar grew clearer, though the dark barrier surrounding the inner sanctum of the Dragon's Table remained impenetrable to most.
"The barrier still stands," Frederick reported, his armor splattered with the unnatural ichor of the fallen Deadlords. "It seems only a select few may pass through."
Lucina exchanged glances with Odyn, both understanding what this meant. "Robin and my father," she said quietly. "It's as it was in my timeline. They must face Validar alone."
"Not completely alone," Odyn replied, cleaning his blade with methodical precision. "We'll be ready the moment that barrier falls."
Nearby, Robin stood apart from the others, face drawn in concentration. Chrom approached, Falchion gleaming with an inner light that seemed to push against the pervasive darkness of the Table.
"Are you ready, Robin?" he asked, his voice carrying across the momentary lull in battle.
Robin hesitated, then met Chrom's gaze with resolve. "Chrom, first I have a favor to ask..."
"As long as it's not a request to leave you behind," Chrom answered with a half-smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"It's not...though I did consider it." Robin's voice remained steady despite the weight of the words. "I can't hurt you if I'm not there in the first place. But...I can't run from Validar forever. And if I'm going to overcome him, my best chance is with you by my side."
"That's more like it."
Robin stepped closer, voice dropping to ensure only Chrom could hear. "But therein lies the favor... If Validar somehow does gain control over me... Promise me... Promise me you'll cut me down."
Horror flashed across Chrom's face. "You can't mean that. You can't ASK that!"
"I'll resist him with all that I am. I promise you. But there are other people involved here—too many people to ignore..." Robin's gaze drifted briefly to the assembled army, to Lucina and the other children who had risked everything by traveling back in time. "You have a duty to protect them as well."
Chrom's jaw tightened, the weight of command settling heavily on his shoulders. "...You're right. The words burn my tongue, but you're right. But you mustn't let Validar seize control! Whatever it takes. Whatever the cost!"
"I'll try. You know I will."
Lucina watched this exchange from a distance, unable to hear the words but recognizing the gravity in both faces. She felt Odyn's presence at her side, steady and reassuring.
"Whatever happens next," he said quietly, "remember that the future is unwritten. Your journey here has already changed countless things."
"But what if it's not enough?" Lucina whispered, the fear she'd carried since childhood—the fear of failure—threatening to overwhelm her. "What if after everything, we still lose?"
Odyn's hand found hers, a brief touch hidden from others by their position. "Then we face it together, as we vowed. But I believe in Robin. I believe in your father. And I believe in you, Lucina."
Before she could respond, the dark barrier rippled as Chrom and Robin approached it. With determined steps, they passed through, the magical membrane allowing them entry before solidifying once more.
"Now we wait," Frederick stated, positioning himself near the barrier's edge.
"No," Lucina countered, moving to stand beside him. "Now we prepare. The moment that barrier falls, we must be ready to join them."
Inside the barrier, Chrom and Robin found themselves in a vast chamber dominated by an ominous altar. Validar stood before it, the stolen Fire Emblem gleaming at his chest, its sacred light corrupted by the dark magic surrounding it.
"Validar!" Chrom's voice echoed in the cavernous space.
The sorcerer turned, his gaunt face twisting into a smile that held no warmth. "Chrom... Come to witness the glorious culmination of your failure? How nice. I have the Fire Emblem, and the Dragon's Table is set for a feast. I will return Grima to this world!"
"You'll DESTROY the world!" Chrom countered. "Lucina has seen it!"
Validar's laughter scraped against the stone walls. "Then I pray today's spectacle lives up to her nightmares! The Awakening rite is not only for exalts and Naga, you know. With it, I'll arouse Grima! The fell dragon needs only a mortal vessel, which you so kindly brought along..."
Robin paled visibly. "...Oh, gods. He means me."
"You ken quickly, Robin. That's my boy/girl." Validar's eyes gleamed with malevolent pride.
"No! Never! I'll die first!"
"You carry my blood—the blood of the fell dragon. His soul slumbers within you. And now the time has come to awaken you both!"
Robin staggered back as if physically struck. "...Wh-what?! I'M Grima? I'M the fell dragon?!"
Outside the barrier, Lucina tensed, sensing the revelation that had just occurred though she couldn't hear the words. She had known this truth for years—had carried it with her since fleeing her ruined future—but had hoped somehow that in this timeline, it might be different.
Odyn noticed her distress. "What is it?"
"Robin," she whispered. "Validar is telling the truth now... about Robin's connection to Grima."
Inside, Validar continued his gloating revelation. "The Grimleal have worked for generations to create someone like you... A vessel worthy of our master. Simply having Grima's blood in your veins is not enough... My father was not worthy, nor was his father before him. Even I was not able to accept Grima's most sacred gift. But you? You had all the makings. You were perfection!"
"N-no..." Robin's voice was barely audible.
"If your damnable mother hadn't been seized by weakness and fear... She betrayed us—stole you from your crib, and fled with you in the night! I know naught of your life thereafter; but all that matters is your return. That you are here is PROOF of your purpose! It is why you still draw breath!"
Chrom stepped forward, positioning himself slightly in front of Robin in a protective stance. "You've proven nothing but your own madness. Robin... We are going to stop this. This can be stopped. YOU can be stopped!"
"You may have killed me in some future past, but I am stronger this time!" Validar's voice rose triumphantly. "With the power of the Dragon's Table flowing through me, I am unstoppable."
"You're not the only one stronger this time! Right, Robin?" Chrom turned, concern flashing across his features as he saw Robin's struggle. "...Robin?"
"Nngh..." Robin clutched at their head, visibly fighting an internal battle.
"Stay with me, Robin! You're not beholden to this fiend! You can fight it! We've all seen how strong you are! We've seen what you're capable of! Don't let him shake your resolve!"
"C-Chrom, I... I don't know."
Validar waved a dismissive hand. "Enough! This sorry display ill befits the heir to our master's power. And you, Prince—your sad poem sounds lovely, but it will not alter destiny."
Something in Robin's expression shifted, determination replacing doubt. "They're more than just words!"
"Be still now, my son/daughter..."
"My life did not begin with you." Robin's voice grew stronger with each word. "It began the day Chrom found me in that field. I have been all over this world, and I have helped change it—for the better. I have fought and laughed and bled with my friends, and THAT is what matters! The ties we forged, the bonds we share—they are of a power greater than Grima."
Validar's face darkened. "A ludicrous idea, as you will know better than anyone soon enough..."
"We do agree on one thing: my life so far has all been in preparation for this moment..." Robin drew their weapon, magic crackling around it. "When I kill you or die trying!"
"Heh heh heh. You have your father's courage, but your mother's judgment... Very well, pup. Come! Do your worst! Come at me with all you have! There is no damage I can do your body that the fell dragon cannot repair!"
The battle within the barrier erupted with blinding flashes of magic and the clash of steel. From outside, Lucina and the others could see only shadows and flares of light, hearing muffled shouts and the occasional crash.
"So long as the dark barrier stands, no other soul can reach us," Validar's voice carried through. "You must face your grim fate alone!"
Minutes stretched into what felt like hours. Soldiers tensed, ready to charge the moment the barrier fell. Sarai maintained protective spells around the perimeter, her magic a gentle counterpoint to the dark energy emanating from the Table's core.
Suddenly, a massive discharge of magic shook the entire structure. The barrier flickered, then collapsed entirely, revealing Chrom standing over Validar's fallen form, with Robin nearby, breathing heavily.
"Validar lies defeated!" Frederick announced, spurring the warriors forward.
But before they could reach Chrom and Robin, Validar somehow summoned one final burst of power.
"This isn't over... Damn you BOTH!" The sorcerer's body, broken and beaten, nonetheless channeled a bolt of dark magic directly at Chrom.
"Father!" Lucina shouted in warning, too far away to intervene.
Robin moved with supernatural speed, shoving Chrom aside—but something was wrong. A red haze seemed to fill the air around them, and Robin's movements became strangely mechanical.
Chrom, recovering from the push, approached his friend with relief. "Are you all right? That's the end of him. Thanks to you we carried the day. We can rest easy now. At long last..."
Horror froze Lucina in place as she witnessed what happened next—Robin's hand rising, crackling with energy, a bolt of magic striking Chrom directly in the chest. It was the very scenario she had warned about since her arrival in this timeline, playing out despite all their efforts to prevent it.
"N-no... Father! No!" Her cry echoed through the chamber as she raced forward, Odyn and the others close behind.
Validar appeared before her, somehow rejuvenated, standing between her and her fallen father. "With the five Gemstones in hand, my magic knows no bounds. Robin is powerless to resist me. Do you see now, Son/Daughter? Human bonds are leaves in the wind. They offer you nothing."
Lucina fell to her knees, Falchion's tip touching the ground as despair washed over her. "This can't be happening. We were supposed to change this! Everything I have done is...worthless."
"The hell it was!" A familiar voice boomed from the entrance to the chamber.
Hope flickered in Lucina's eyes. "Huh? I know that voice..."
The massive form of Khan Basilio strode into view, very much alive despite what they had all believed.
"Don't you put any stock in this destiny hogwash! Let the dead whine about their fate... As long as I draw breath, I choose to keep fighting! That's what life is all about!"
Lucina stared in disbelief. "Khan Basilio! I-I thought... We all thought you were—"
"Worm food, back in Valm?" The Khan laughed, though he moved with the caution of someone still recovering from grave wounds. "It almost went that way. But I scraped by, thanks to you."
"I don't understand."
Basilio's grin widened. "Once I took a couple hits from Walhart, I knew he was too strong for me. Normally pride would've had me dead before I'd even thought twice about it. But your warning gave me the courage to be a coward, hah ha! I played dead like a big, bald opossum! It wasn't hard. In truth I almost WAS dead. You saved my life, Lucina. Had you not said anything... I'd have stood my ground against that monster and died on the spot."
"Oh, Basilio!" Relief and confusion warred on Lucina's face.
Validar's expression contorted with rage. "This...does...not...MATTER! If you didn't die there, then you can die HERE!"
"Hah! You're no Walhart, snake eyes!" Basilio retorted. "Not as strong, or even as clever... For example: you STILL haven't realized that you've been tricked."
"What?!" Validar's confidence faltered for the first time.
"Robin predicted everything that would happen here. He/She saw it in a dream. Saw this very fight with you."
"If you think—" Validar began, but Basilio cut him off.
"Guess what else was in the dream? The five Gemstones. When Flavia gave my stone to Chrom, Robin saw what fate had in store. He/She knew Chrom couldn't bring the real Gemstones here to Plegia. That would be like swinging a big, juicy steak right in front of destiny's choppers!"
Validar laughed, though the sound was strained. "Gya ha ha! A worthy bluff, Feroxi fool, but ridiculous all the same. I've had your merry little band watched since Carrion Isle. Your every move! So I know Robin hasn't touched the stones—he/she hasn't been near them!"
"You watched our party, yes—the members your men knew about; the live ones. But they weren't watching dead men, were they? ...They weren't watching me."
Understanding dawned on Lucina's face as she watched Validar's confidence crumble.
"I... No, that's not—" the sorcerer stammered.
"Heh, looks like it might be finally starting to sink in..." Basilio crossed his massive arms, satisfaction evident in his stance.
"That is not possible! These have to be... They must be..."
"Why? Because of...DESTINY? PAH ha ha! Robin had your destiny beat days ago, when he/she came up with this plan. The expression on your face...it makes all those long nights in hiding worth it. Hah!"
Validar's face contorted with fury. "Damn you! Damn you to all the hells! None of this matters! Chrom is dead! Your fates sealed! Grima will— ...Eh?"
From behind Validar, a bolt of magic struck him square in the back. Robin stood there, hand extended, as Chrom—very much alive—climbed to his feet beside them.
"Father!" Lucina cried out, joy replacing despair. "You're alive!"
"Robin...spared me..." Chrom explained, wincing slightly. "He/She weakened his/her magic...just before the strike..."
Robin remained silent, but the determination in their eyes spoke volumes.
"GRAAAAAAGH!" Validar roared in frustration. "Damn you all, and your stones! I won't need them to kill you!"
Odyn moved to Lucina's side, helping her to her feet. "It seems destiny isn't as fixed as we feared," he murmured.
Chrom readied Falchion, looking to Robin. "Ready to end this, Robin?"
"Let's do it. I'm ready to see what our true future has in store."
"We will. Now. Together."
The barrier that had separated the inner sanctum shattered completely, allowing the full force of the Ylissean army to join the battle. Validar, realizing his disadvantage, warped to another part of the chamber, summoning reinforcements from the shadows.
Basilio and Flavia approached, weapons drawn. "Chrom! Robin! We're yours to command!" the West-Khan declared.
"Let's put this dastard down, for good this time!" Flavia added with characteristic ferocity.
Lucina raised Falchion, its blade gleaming with renewed purpose. She turned to Odyn, who stood ready beside her, his own weapon drawn.
"Together," she said simply.
He nodded, understanding all she left unspoken. "Together."
They charged forward as one, leading the vanguard toward Validar's new position. The sorcerer's face twisted with hatred as he saw Lucina approaching.
"Die, Validar!" she cried, Falchion cutting a blue arc through the air.
"Impudent meddler!" he snarled in response. "You have failed to change the future at every turn. What makes you think this time will be different?!"
Lucina's eyes blazed with conviction. "Perhaps it won't... But either way, it's no reason to spare your miserable life!"
Their blades met in a shower of sparks, dark magic against sacred steel. Behind them, Odyn and the others engaged Validar's remaining forces, pushing toward the heart of the Dragon's Table.
For all his power, Validar found himself overwhelmed by the coordinated assault. With each passing moment, his strength ebbed while the resolve of his opponents only grew stronger.
"No...nngh!" he gasped as multiple blows struck him simultaneously. "All...wrong..."
With a final desperate lunge, Validar attempted to reach Robin, perhaps hoping to trigger the fell blood one last time. But Lucina intercepted him, Falchion driving deep into his chest.
"Why..." the sorcerer gasped, his eyes fixed on Robin even as life fled his body. "Why would you squander your birthright... Robin...my son/daughter..."
His form collapsed, dissolving into dark mist that dissipated across the chamber floor.
For a moment, silence reigned. Then Chrom stepped forward, relief evident in his voice. "We did it! We did it, Robin! We've altered our destiny! We... We've won."
But the victory celebration died in their throats as a shadowy figure materialized near the altar—a figure that wore Robin's face, yet was unmistakably something else entirely.
"You!" Robin gasped, confronting what appeared to be their own doppelgänger.
The shadow-Robin smiled, the expression cold and unfamiliar on those familiar features. "You may have altered the course of history, but not its destination."
"What do you mean?!" Robin demanded.
"It is still written that Chrom died here at your hands. Or, perhaps to be more precise...mine."
Chrom stepped forward protectively. "Who are you, really?!"
"I told you, I'm Robin. The Robin that murdered you and became the fell dragon, Grima. When this 'Marth' of yours decided to come back in time...I came with her."
Lucina felt the blood drain from her face. Beside her, Odyn moved closer, his presence a silent anchor in the face of this revelation.
"Another version of me?" Robin looked stricken. "But how...?"
The creature wearing Robin's face sighed with exaggerated patience. "I can be so daft sometimes... It's really quite simple. I am you. Our only difference is the decisions we've made... Those vivid dreams you have—those are my memories. We share those memories because we share the same heart... Grima's heart."
"Th-the headaches... The voices... It was you!"
"Your recollection begins the day I entered this world. I intended for us to unite then, the first moment I found you. But your heart was still too weak to contain Grima's power... The shock of my attempt wiped your memory clean."
Robin remained silent, visibly processing this terrible truth.
"I knew if Lucina managed to rewrite history, Grima would never be resurrected. And I, in turn, would cease to exist. So I had to step in, now and again, to keep my future secured. Like when Validar was killed in his attempt to assassinate Emmeryn... But that is the past, now. We have our future past to think of. All that remains is for you to become Grima, as I did. Then you and I will become as one, and we can reclaim my power."
"We are not yet the same?" Robin asked, a hint of defiance returning to their voice.
"...You were supposed to choose godhood over your pathetic band of servants. But if you'll not claim the sacrifice laid at the Dragon's Table... I will claim it in your place!"
A dark aura formed around the future Robin, pulsing with malevolent energy.
"What?!" The present Robin stepped back in alarm.
"Myeh heh ha ha ha! The fell dragon and I are one! And though my journey through time has diminished my power...the life force here shall renew me!"
With unexpected speed, Robin darted forward, seemingly moving toward the altar. The future Robin began to glow with intensifying power, drawing energy from the sacrifices that had been made at the Dragon's Table.
The ground beneath them shook violently as a pillar of dark energy erupted from the center of the Table, shooting skyward with enough force to crack the ancient stone ceiling. Debris began to rain down as the structure destabilized.
"We need to get out of here!" Frederick shouted above the cacophony. "The entire Table is collapsing!"
Chrom grabbed Lucina's arm, pulling her toward the exit. "Come on! We can't stop this now—we need to regroup!"
Lucina resisted for only a moment, her eyes fixed on the growing maelstrom of dark energy where the future Robin stood. Then she turned, racing alongside her father as the chamber crumbled around them.
Outside, they emerged into apocalyptic twilight. The sky had darkened to an unnatural crimson, clouds spiraling above the Dragon's Table like a malevolent whirlpool. And rising from its center, vast beyond comprehension, came the form of the fell dragon Grima.
"All right. Now what?" Chrom asked, his voice unnaturally calm in the face of such horror.
Lucina stared upward, the nightmare of her childhood now manifest before her once more. "Grima. It's all over..."
"The terrible size of it...gods!" Frederick breathed, his usual stoicism cracking. "For once the legends spoke true. We can't face him, not in a straight battle—he'd kill us all!"
Chrom's expression hardened with resolve. "If only we still had the Fire Emblem, we could ask Naga for her power. Then at least we'd have a chance."
"But Validar took the Emblem!" Lissa reminded him, her eyes wide with fear.
"And it was lost inside the Dragon's Table... I know."
"What, you mean THIS Fire Emblem?" Robin's voice drew their attention. In their hands gleamed the sacred shield, its five gemstones glowing with inner light.
"The Emblem!" Chrom exclaimed. "But how..."
Robin allowed a small, grim smile. "I stole it from you once, remember? The least I could do was steal it back."
Above them, Grima's massive form blotted out what remained of the daylight, a living embodiment of despair. But as the Fire Emblem's light caught Lucina's eye, a spark of hope kindled in her chest.
She reached for Odyn's hand, finding it already extended toward her. Their fingers intertwined, a silent reaffirmation of their vow. Whatever came next—whatever final battle awaited them—they would face it together.
Chrom's voice cut through her thoughts, filled with renewed determination. "Robin, you old dastard/sly cat. You never cease to amaze! Quickly now! We must complete the Awakening before Grima catches on!"
"It's said the first exalt paid tribute to Naga at a site on Mount Prism," Frederick offered.
"Do you know where, exactly?"
"Yes. There is an altar at the peak of the mountain. If milord would perform the Awakening, it must be done there."
Chrom nodded decisively. "A small hope is better than no hope at all. Hurry, everyone!"
As they fled the Dragon's Table, Grima's roar shook the very foundations of the world. The fell dragon had returned—but unlike in Lucina's timeline, they still had the Fire Emblem, still had a chance to perform the Awakening and summon Naga's power.
The future remained unwritten.
To be continued in Chapter 22: Awakening; The Devils Emerge!