4leavesonaclover | Entries tagged with fire emblem fates abo

Notes for Reference: Mikoto is actually the daughter of a Nohrian commoner and Hoshidan noble (both with Vallite ancestry) who ran away to Valla to be together. Mikoto was later adopted by the Vallite royal family, who had befriended her parents before their deaths and took her in after. This is to make it so Hisame, who is Azura's son and Midori, who is Corrin's daughter, do not have issues in being together. Both Corrin and Azura know about this.

After the war, enough power was granted to Lilith to return to her human form. She now works happily as both an advisor and guardian of the children. Sakura also talks normally now to show that she has grown out her stuttering phase. Now that Corrin is Queen of Valla, and with Takumi now in Nohr, Hinoka decided to study up on politics and take up royal responsibilities alongside Ryoma, as his right hand. They both agreed that Hinoka should have some preparation in the case anything happens to Ryoma before Shiro is old enough to, as the populace wouldn't trust Leo acting as regent.

Also this makes use of children born from M/M and F/F pairings, made possible via omegaverse rules. Omegas are the mothers and alphas the fathers. Betas are normal humans and therefore only beta females can be mothers and same for beta males as fathers. The children do not have dynamics yet as they are children and have not presented (which happens in their teenage years and works like puberty)

Deeprealms do not exist, so all children were born either during or after the war. Also onigokko is Japanese for tag, and nawatobi is Japanese for jump rope.

The reason of Hoshidan hostility is based on real life Japan, who is unwelcoming at best to mixed children. My English tutor had a cousin who married a Japanese exchange student, moved to Japan with her, then moved back to Canada with his family due to bullying his mixed children experienced. Also realistically, expecting all of Hoshido to forgive Nohr's invasions and the deaths of the King and however many soldiers and civilians is not feasible. Some nobles are bitter over having to give up resources to Nohr as part of helping Nohr improve their situation while other feel like Ryoma and Takumi marrying Nohrians is a betrayal to their country.

Children References:

Midori and Kana: Corrin (omega female) and Kaze's (alpha male) daughter and son

Hisame and Shigure: Azura (omega female) and Hinata's (beta male) sons

Shiro and Forrest: Leo (omega male) and Ryoma's (alpha male) sons

Siegbert and Kiragi: Takumi (omega male) and Xander's (alpha male) sons

Tsurugi: Hana (omega female) and Hinoka's (alpha female) son

Asugi: Sakura (omega female) and Saizo's (alpha male) son *Sakura named him Asugi because she didn't want him to grow up having the burden of the Saizo legacy while he was still young

Caeldori and Nina: Subaki (omega male) and Niles's (alpha male) daughters

Sophie: Setsuna (omega female) and Silas's (beta male) daughter

There are other children who have been born and exist at this time, they just happen to not be present.

Also a quick rundown on where everyone is living: Takumi lives with Xander in Nohr as Prince Consort of Nohr, and Leo lives with Ryoma in Hoshido as Prince Consort of Hoshido. Because Leo now lives in Hoshido, Niles also lives in Hoshido with Subaki, as Sakura and Saizo still remain in Hoshido. Hinata is still Takumi's retainer, though now he works as an envoy in Valla for both Nohr and Hoshido so he can stay by Azura's side. Setsuna similarly is still Hinoka's retainer but also lives in Valla with Silas, who became the Vallite Captain of the Guards.

Also the older kids speaking with such foul words? Bad parenting effects.

( Like Mother, Like Daughter )

Current Mood: contemplative
Current Location: Castle Shirasagi
Current Music: Prelude to Disaster

A/N: Is it plagiarism if I self-plagiarize? It probably is but this is for my own hobby so I guess I'll do what makes things easier on me. Also content warning of some sexual references in the beginning.

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It was a scene of scandal. The supposedly perfect sky knight of Hoshido, fornicating with a Nohrian rogue. It had started as a moment of morbid curiosity, only for it to get farther than Subaki wanted to admit. But here in the borders of the tension-filled kingdoms, he could for once throw away all expectations of the world and embrace his inherently flawed self. Forget about the war, his image, his reputation and legacy that was expected of him.

"That was amazing," remarked Niles. "You were really into it today. Guess war really gets you hyped up?"

"Yeah... you could say that."

They had even discussed running away together. With the increased tensions caused by Nohr's invasion, the idea of running away seemed tempting. Maybe then they could build a future together, away from royalty and expectations.

But then the image of Lady Corrin flashed through Subaki's mind. Her smiles, her doubts, the blush she had around Kaze. He thinks about her holding her growing belly, and then later on little Midori. He thinks about the happiness she and Kaze shared together. And then he thinks about how it all came crashing down. He remembers the tears, the cries of despair as she is cast out of Hoshido without a chance of seeing her family again. He thinks of Kaze's anger and grief, the little cries of Midori. How a happy family was shattered just for Nohrian sympathy. That is when he realizes there is no place for him and Niles.

"We can't keep doing this." Subaki finally said.

Niles's expression was one of shock, before it morphed into confusion. The outlaw had finally opened his heart to someone, only to be rejected once again. "What about the future we talked about? The running away? Starting a family? That mean nothing now?"

Subaki's voice was similarly of masked indifference. "Lady Corrin started a family in Hoshido. It didn't mean anything. And I'm not turning my back on Hoshido. So yes, it doesn't mean anything now." "

That's fair," Niles's response was terse. "Not like I can leave Nohr anyway." I was ready to leave it all for you. But if this is how you feel, Lord Leo and Odin are all I got...

"Is that all you have to say?" Subaki asked. You're really just going to let me walk away? Please, tell me we can make this work. Tell me to run away with you, and I'll come with you.

"What the fuck do you want from me? Why ask this now when you don't want this anymore?" snapped Niles.

"I just wanted to know what all this meant to you. The antagonizing, the teasing, the way you convinced me to open, our... activities together. What was the meaning of it all?" Tell me you believe in us. Make me stay. Ask me to stay with you.

Niles wanted so badly to tell Subaki that they could let both kingdoms burn for all he cared. He wanted to take the sky knight to run away and never look back. But who was he kidding? Subaki was unattainable for someone like him. If he wasn't good enough for all his Nohrian flings, there was no hope to attain Subaki. It was a mistake to have let his heart open this much. In truth, he was afraid. Afraid of taking chances, afraid of going in too deep. It was better to end it now before it hurt more in the long run.

"Fine." Niles's reply was barbed. "It was all just a game to me. You weren't anything special."

"A game...?" Subaki's voice was one of uncharacteristic distress. "This was a game to you?! How many times we could have been caught and executed was all a game to you?!"

"What can I say," shrugged Niles, "It's the thrill of avoiding getting caught and playing with fire." stop doing this stop hurting him it’s not true you know that

Subaki was silent for a moment before speaking again, unable to hide his hurt. "I thought maybe you weren't so bad, but I guess you are as heartless as people say you are. If not worse."

"Well sorry to ruin your fantasy. Welcome to the real world." Niles sneered.

"Then I'm glad it's over... Nohrian scum." Subaki finally turned away, almost spitting out those last lines. Niles watched him storm out and take off with his pegasus. He waited for the redhead to leave before heading over to his own horse and taking off into the night.

I knew it… I was never going to be worth standing next to him.

Never going to be good enough for him.

Not someone as filthy as me...

I guess I was just deluding myself to think we could have been more.. that we could have had more…

Current Mood: depressed
Current Location: Borders of Nohr and Hoshido
Current Music: Thorn in You, Warmth is Gone

A/N: In a world where everyone has secondary genders, (though this is subtle) everyone has pheromones that emit different scents depending on emotions. This occurs before Kaze runs away with Sakura. Odin shows up because he followed Niles and has met with Corrin before she jumped, who asked him to pass messages to Kaze. Also the riverside mentioned is the same one of Caeldori's paralogue, I thought it would be a nice reference :)

---------------------------

Kaze shifted silently through the Hoshidan glade, slowly making his way towards the plains of Hoshido. After Midori had finally settled down, he realized this was no time to sit down and wallow in his failures. Corrin was out there, and he was determined to find her.

A strange sound suddenly stopped him in his tracks. Stealthily, he approached the source. It brought him to a densely forested area, where anyone could seem to disappear into. He noticed two horses tied up near a tree, one black Nohrian steed and one white Hoshidan pegasus. It was then he heard a voice.

"We can't keep doing this." It was Subaki.

Subaki? What was he doing here? thought Kaze as he approached silently in a way only ninjas could.

Kaze spotted the sky knight with another figure. In the dim moonlight, he could make out shaggy white hair and an eyepatch, realizing it was the sadistic archer that had captured him and Rinkah a year ago, Niles. While Kaze remained watching mostly out of concern for Subaki, he would be lying to say there wasn't a little curiosity in seeing what was going on.

"What about the future we talked about? The running away? Starting a family? That mean nothing now?" Niles's voice would have sounded unbothered to the average person, but for someone like Kaze, who was no stranger to hiding his own emotions, he could sense the hurt hidden beneath.

Subaki's voice was similarly of masked indifference. "Lady Corrin started a family in Hoshido. It didn't mean anything. And I'm not turning my back on Hoshido. So yes, it doesn't mean anything now."

"That's fair," Niles's response was terse. "Not like I can leave Nohr anyway."

"Is that all you have to say?" Subaki's question seemed out of nowhere. What could he possibly mean by that? Kaze thought in bewilderment.

"What the fuck do you want from me? Why ask this now when you don't want this anymore?" snapped Niles.

"I just wanted to know what all this meant to you. The antagonizing, the teasing, the way you convinced me to open, our... activities together. What was the meaning of it all?"

"Fine." Niles's reply was barbed. "It was all just a game to me. You weren't anything special."

Kaze recoiled at that remark. He nearly gave away himself and a part of him had half a mind to stick a shuriken into the outlaw's remaining eye for the callous response... but another part of him felt that Niles wasn't speaking the truth. Besides, Corrin believed in giving people second chances and seeing the good in people. While the ninja wasn't receiving the best impression, he figured Subaki must have known more about Niles, judging by their complex, long-time affair. And it wasn't like he was any stranger to maintaining facades, Niles was likely using his own.

"A game...?" Subaki's voice was one of uncharacteristic distress. "This was a game to you?! How many times we could have been caught and executed was all a game to you?!"

"What can I say," shrugged Niles, "It's the thrill of avoiding getting caught and playing with fire."

Subaki was silent for a moment before speaking again, unable to hide his hurt. "I thought maybe you weren't so bad, but I guess you are as heartless as people say you are. If not worse."

"Well sorry to ruin your fantasy. Welcome to the real world." Niles sneered.

"Then I'm glad it's over.. Nohrian scum." Subaki finally turned away, storming out of the hidden area. He thankfully did not notice Kaze, the ninja being well hidden thanks to his green hair and clothes blending into the foliage. Niles waited for the sky knight to take his pegasus and leave before soon taking his own horse and heading off in the opposite direction.

Out of concern for the sky knight, Kaze carefully followed the scent of distressed pheromones. He finally found Subaki near the riverside, hugging his pegasus with his shoulders shaking slightly.

Kaze was unsure how to approach when Subaki suddenly looked up in shock and exclaimed, "Kaze?!"

"Subaki?!" Kaze exclaimed back, taken aback from being suddenly noticed. Trying to remain nonchalant, he asked, "What are you doing out here?- Are you crying- what happened?" Fatherly instinct and worry instantly took over when he noticed the sky knight's uncharacteristic tears. Instinctively, he reached out to hug Subaki.

"I- ... I-..." Subaki suddenly broke into sobs, holding Kaze tightly. Kaze wondered if he had ever gotten the chance of a warm, parental embrace. Though, considering the sky knight's lack of room for error, he had a feeling Subaki's upbringing was not a kind one. Kaze did not have a handkerchief with him, so he settled on using his scarf to wipe Subaki's tears. He didn't care if fluids got onto it, after all Midori had spat up on it before.

They stood there together for a while before Subaki calmed down. "Did you follow me?"

"No," replied Kaze. "I was looking for Corrin when I ran into your horses."

"Then you know about me and Niles... don't you."

"Yes..." conceded Kaze, not able to lie about it.

"Are you going to report me?" Subaki seemed resigned to defeat.

"No." Kaze's response was firm. "I could never do that when my wife has also been taken from me for having the capacity to care."

Subaki looked as if he wanted to say something, but did not. He slowly went to wash his face in the river.

"I appreciate your support this evening, but I would like you to act as if this never happened." Subaki finally said with a practiced calmness.

"... Very well. But please take care of yourself."

"I will." Subaki nodded before mounting his pegasus and flying off.

Just then, another voice broke out. "Hark! The darkness whispers! It calls to Odin Dark!"

Kaze spun around in confusion and saw a blond dark mage in bright yellow garb.

"... May I ask what brings you so far into the Hoshidan border?"

"Why of course! I bear the messages of a fair dragon damsel in distress-"

"You mean Corrin?" Kaze's heart skipped a beat. "Where is she? How is she? ... How did you know she was a dragon?"

Odin's expression flinched a bit before he puffed up his chest. "Odin Dark sees all! The darkness whispers to me the answers of the universe! And our paths became entwined when Odin Dark was chosen to assist the fair Lady Corrin in saving her world!"

Kaze was completely lost. "So... how did you find her?"

"Ah yes! Odin Dark and his companions of the night ran into as she fled the ravages of war between two nations! She was swallowed up in the deep darkness of despair. But fear not! I bestowed her knowledge of the great evil beyond the two kingdoms, tucked away in the far realms of the Bottomless Canyon."

"The Bottomless Canyon?!" Kaze felt fear and dread. "How will she ever return from there?"

"Fear not! For there is a forbidden realm there, thought to be of wild tales, only made true! There is a way there and back, Azura has the gift of knowledge. My companions and I remain to guide our lieges toward the path of the true villain in the void, however our lieges are sealed away in a prison of stubbornness."

Although Kaze could barely understand the cryptic mage, he felt somewhat reassured that Azura would be guiding his wife. "You said you had a message from her, right? Did she tell you anything to pass to me? How can I find her?"

"Fear not! Lady Azura first intends on unveiling the dark tale come to life, the true evil from within! While we speak with our lieges, they will make the perilous journey of passing the message to Fort Jinya."

"Fort Jinya..." Kaze felt a rise of hope in him. "Thank you, Odin. I have needed this message greatly."

"Odin Dark does as the universe calls!" The dark mage posed before making an explosion of magic, and "disappearing" (or rather, running away while smoke was in the air).

Although the encounter was a strange one, Kaze finally felt an uplifting feeling. Corrin was one step closer to him.

Current Mood: quixotic
Current Location: Borders of Nohr and Hoshido
Current Music: Wistful Wilds, Thorn in You, Warmth is Gone

Kaze gently opened the door to see Midori, curled up with a Corrin doll in her arms. She had finally settled down after Lady Sakura had, in a last ditch attempt, given Midori her own little Corrin doll from the princess's beloved doll collection. As if the little doll embodied some aspect of her mother, Midori had calmed down and clung onto it for comfort.

Kaze looked upon his daughter's peaceful face, before he finally decided. He would follow Corrin down her hopeful path of uniting two kingdoms. And from the information Odin had revealed to him, he knew there was more than just Nohrians in play.

Slowly he started to pack his supplies, though they were more for Midori than himself. He chose only to bring some shuriken, a few changes of clothes, hunting supplies and a small package of food. As a ninja, he could endure weeks with limited food, though he was knowledgeable in edible herbs and decent with a hunt. Sleeping on the ground did not matter too much for him, so the blankets were for Midori, to keep her safe and warm. He wasn't sure about feeding her, however, as she was only five months old and still yet to be able to eat solids.

Just as he stepped out, he saw Lady Hinoka waiting before him.

"Lady Hinoka, I can explain-"

"There's no need to, Kaze." Lady Hinoka's smile was one of understanding and sadness. "I'm not here to stop you. I came to give my blessings. I also thought you could use a bit more food on the trip. I know you're a ninja and you guys can go a long time without, but you'll need everything you can get to go find her."

"Thank you, Lady Hinoka." Kaze graciously received the pack. "What about Midori?"

"I also put as much soybean powder as I could into it," said Hinoka. "Though it will be better if you can find a nursing mother in villages to help feed her, so try to do that as much as you can, ok? She's still my niece and I want her to be ok for this trip."

"I will try my best for her sake. Are you not coming?"

Hinoka shook her head. "Ryoma has asked that I stay to protect the castle while he and Takumi search for reinforcements. As much as I care for Corrin, I must protect Hoshido as their eldest princess. Besides, with you going after her, I have nothing to worry about, don't I? There's no other man besides her butler more devoted to her than you."

"Thank you, milady. I must get going now. I cannot fail Corrin a third time." Kaze stood up to leave.

"Take care, Kaze." Lady Hinoka replied back. "I hope you find Corrin soon."

Kaze had stepped out of Castle Shirasagi when a soft cry stopped him.

"W-wait!"

It was Lady Sakura. She had come with her own pack and a pegasus he was pretty sure she had stolen.

"Lady Sakura? What are you doing here? It's so late at night!"

"I-I want to join you!" The youngest princess exclaimed.

"Join me?" The green ninja was shocked. "I am making a perilous journey and I do not know how long it will take me to find Corrin. What would your siblings think of you running away? Or your retainers?"

"I'm tired of always following my siblings!" Sakura shouted with an unusual amount of conviction in her voice. "They always say I'm too young to understand, but I believe I know Big Sister Corrin! And y-you're going after, which means I must be right... right?"

"Yes. That is why I am going. But..."

"I want to go. I believe in what Corrin is doing, and it's time I showed her that." Sakura looked at him with a firm expression. "My siblings would stop me, tell me I'm too young. But I know I'm old enough to believe and make my own decisions. Besides, it's better for me than to stay back at Shirasagi worrying over you all."

"Ok. I understand. But what about Hana and Subaki?"

"I don't want to drag them into having to decide whether to follow me or Hoshido. If they choose to follow me, I know they'll find me."

"Very well." Kaze finally conceded. "Then let us get going, daylight will come soon."

As the two of them departed off into the night, a single thought was on the ninja's mind. I'm coming, my love.

Current Mood: contemplative
Current Location: Castle Shirasagi, Hoshido
Current Music: Short Hair from Mulan

Small notes to preface this and to make certain things make more sense. Of course, ask if there are any questions, constructive criticism is important for writers! Both kingdoms have their own language, which is just Fantasy German for Nohr and Fantasy Japanese for Hoshido, but they have common tongue that has been spoken for generations (English). Nohr's poor conditions make it difficult to grow spices and therefore it is used rather sparingly due to having to be imported from Hoshido, which will explain why Corrin is overwhelmed with flavour. Hoshido also has more capacity to have a lot of beauty products while Nohr is more practical with bathing, hence Corrin's confusion over how much items they use in her bath. The Hoshidans getting upset every time Corrin mentions her Nohrian siblings is a side effect of them being a bit jealous and bitter that she has good memories and hobbies with the family that stole her away while knowing nothing of them and what they had before Corrin was kidnapped. If the Hoshidans seem a bit more harsh or OOC, that is a side effect of Corrin having severe anxiety and overthinking their actions and emotions. She got kidnapped, revealed she is a long lost princess to Hoshido and now having a formal dinner when most of her (known) life was inside a fortress. Naturally, being in this social situation would overwhelm anyone. Corrin is also an avid reader (how else would you pass the time without going insane?) which is why she also constantly references stories. Also this Corrin is slightly different in appearance as the "canon" one in that she has dark hair just like Mikoto.
---
Eternity seemed to pass after Corrin had returned to her room after meeting with Azura. She hadn't felt comfortable touching anything inside that old room. Queen Mikoto had never touched them anyway, and Corrin didn't feel like they were hers. All the items in that room belonged to a metaphorically dead girl, and Corrin could not feel any connection of the girl who once lived to herself. Touching them felt disrespectful, even if it was supposed to be hers. She had tried reading the books, however, they were written in Hoshidan script and therefore incomprehensible to her.

A knock finally broke Corrin out of her identity-torn fog. "Lady Corrin?" It was Kaze. After having met him again in Hoshido, the two had grown closer ever since his escort of her to Shirasagi and then helping save Hinoka and Sakura. Queen Mikoto seemed to have noticed their closeness and allowed Kaze to pledge his service as Corrin's retainer, which relieved the amnesiac princess to have at least one familiar face with her. "Lady Mikoto has a dinner prepared for you and your siblings. She would like this opportunity for you to meet and hopefully bond more with them."

The very idea of talking to her unfamiliar family sent a feeling of dread down her spine. However, the joy and relief her family had in seeing her again... Corrin didn't have the heart to turn it down after all the preparations the queen must have made in order to welcome her back. "Okay," she said, "is there anything I should do to prepare myself for the occasion?"

"Just a bath should do," replied the green-haired ninja. "The servants have already prepared it for you, and Lady Mikoto has selected a fitting kimono for you to change into."

"Alright, I'll go do that. See you at dinner then?"

"Unfortunately, Lady Mikoto has requested that the retainers eat separately tonight, she wanted it to be a more personal dinner with just the seven of you."

"That's alright," responded Corrin, trying to hide her disappointment, "I'll see you later tonight then."

After her bath, which surprised her with how much soaps and scented oils and tonics were used, she was fitted into her kimono. Despite the soft material it was made of, it felt heavy and restricting on her. Corrin felt like the peasant girl impersonating a dead princess from her stories. Like a fake. Nevertheless, she steeled her nerves and slid open the door to the dining hall.

The sight of the table was more than enough to make her jaw drop. The dishes before her made all the celebration dinners back at Nohr look like a common farmer's meal in comparison. She could see a large plate of fish and other seafood, a large bowl of soup, even the vegetables seemed well presented. Her bowl of rice was inlaid with small leaves that had a rich aroma to it. Even the rice has spices? Corrin thought. She had known of spices, but they were rare in Nohr due to having to be imported. The amount of spices used in this feast could have been enough for decades worth of her birthday dinners in Nohr.

As if understanding her confusion, Mikoto spoke up. "This is Nanakusa-gayu, a porridge for special occasions made by preparing rice with seven different herbs. It is meant for good fortune."

"I-I see," said Corrin, still stunned by the differences of Nohr and Hoshido. Still, the custom seemed fascinating to her. It seemed she still had a lot to learn.

One by one, the other Hoshidan royals came in and sat down. Corrin was about to pick up her chopsticks and eat when Azura put her hand over Corrin's as an unspoken sign of "not yet."

Mikoto spoke up. "I would like to say a few words to my newly returned daughter. Corrin, we are deeply grateful for you being brought back to us. I hope that you may be able to find a home here and grow closer to us like you once were. Now, let us enjoy the meal that has been made for us. Itadakimasu."

"Itadakimasu." The four Hoshidan siblings and Azura chorused. Realizing too late she also had to say it, Corrin hastily said "Eetadakkymass!" before cringing at her own horrendous pronunciation. She could feel her siblings' eyes boring into her and melted in her seat.

"I-it's okay," said Sakura. "I had a hard time saying it too, growing up."

"It's nothing to worry about," reassured Ryoma. "We will help teach you more Hoshidan while you are here."

"T-thanks, Ryoma, and Sakura." Corrin said, grateful for their understanding. She still feel Takumi eyeing her, however.

It was Hinoka who then spoke up, "So, I wanted us to go out like we used to, but I realize I don't actually know what you like to do these days. What do you do for fun?"

"Oh! Well I love to read! There's so many lovely fairy tales in Nohr. One of my favourites is the one with the long-haired princess locked in a tower, I suppose because I related to her..."

She couldn't help but notice Hinoka's slight disappointment and Takumi still eyeing her warily. Trying to take her mind off the awkwardness, she decided to eat some of the food. However, having never used chopsticks in her life, the food fell pathetically on the table.

"It helps to hold it like a pen," advised Ryoma. "You have better control of it that way."

Despite her best efforts, she just couldn't seem to learn and had to just settle with using the spoon for her soup. Only for her to nearly gag at the sudden intensity of flavour. The most she had ever tasted was salt and pepper, and maybe the slightest hint of other spices. But this? Sure it tasted amazing, but it also felt like sensory overload. Still, she managed to keep it down.

"T-those stories sound lovely" Sakura said. "M-maybe we could read some Hoshidan stories together... once you learn more Hoshidan perhaps."

"I'd love that." Corrin relaxed hearing her youngest sister's kind words. "I also love playing chess. It's an amazing game of strategy, even if Leo is far better than me. Still, he taught me and-"

Her voice trailed off seeing the Hoshidans look uncomfortable at the mention of her younger Nohrian brother. I shouldn't have said that...

"It sounds like a similar game to shogi," said Ryoma. "Perhaps I can teach you to play when we have the chance."

"R-right, I'd appreciate that."

"It sounds like you didn't have much in Nohr." Hinoka spoke up. "Don't worry, we'll definitely show you around more, and I definitely want to taking on a flight with my pegasus!"

"I... I'd love that." Corrin felt exhausted keeping up with everyone. She didn't feel like the sister they had missed for so long. She felt like a body double being made to impersonate the lost princess. Judging by the expression on Takumi's face, he seemed the think the same. But this was no story.

Do I really belong here?

Kaze may seem OOC but consider he spent his life feeling guilty about losing Corrin, fell in love with her while she helped him overcome those feelings only to lose her again. Also his anger is on Midori's behalf too as my idea of his family is that after the death of his and Saizo's father, their mother fell into a deep depression and was unable to care for them. So now he has to worry about how it feels for Corrin to be torn from them and Midori being motherless.
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It seemed like an eternity waiting for the Hoshidan army to return for Kaze. He had never felt more uncertain in his life. His beloved, sweet Corrin, who had unwavering faith in him, saved him, loved, believed in him... was throwing herself between two great enemy armies. And despite the way she convinced the royals to spare him and Rinkah... he wasn't sure if they would listen to her on laying down their swords.

She had told him about Nohr, being one of the few people she trusted with her feelings of homesickness. Nohr was not the most fertile of lands, as she could recount days going hungry, or even her older siblings sacrificing their own meals for her. While he had trained in hunger endurance as a ninja, he wasn't sure if he could have lived in a world where even the royalty had days of not eating. At the same time, he could tell that place was a home for her, the warm memories of her Nohrian siblings spending time together. He envied that, when his own relationship with Saizo was strained at best.

However, what would they think of her asking them to lay down their swords? Considering all the dancing around he and Rinkah had to do in order to avoid Garon's wrath, he imagined it would not be received well. And her Hoshidan family... while the anti-Nohrian sentiment had some foundation as to why, he also knew that Hoshidans felt a very strong "with us or against us" mentality. Corrin had expressed how trapped she felt and how she could not express her homesickness and impostor syndrome because her siblings believed that just being in Hoshido would make her happy. Knowing the distrust some Hoshidans had, he wasn't sure if they would let her back with the decision she made.

Midori fussed again in his arms. She had not taken well to the wet nurse Kaze had asked to feed her in her mother's absence. Corrin had been adamant about nursing her own daughter, and he could tell the absence of her was affecting their baby girl.

Midori had been an unexpected result shortly after Corrin's return to Hoshido. He had carried what he now knew as a longtime crush as a young boy, watching her from afar. Her rescue of him, and the incessant ways she tried to get to know him only made him fall deeper in love. And then when one night when her heat arrived unexpectedly after years of surpression...

She had called out for him. Begged him to stay, that she needed him. Instinct overtook him and he lost himself in a haze of alpha nature and uncontrollable feelings. Despite him committing a grievous sin that should have cost him his life, she had forgiven him, confessed her own feelings, and agreed to marry him, proudly saying she would not have any other. Their love had only grown in welcoming Midori into the world. Despite the questionable nature of her existence, neither of them would trade her for the world.

The sound of the army's signal horn announcing the Hoshidans return snapped Kaze out of his thoughts down in memory lane. He searched frantically for his wife, only the sinking feeling to return when he realized she was not among the ranks.

"Where... Where is Corrin?"

"... Ask the Crown Prince." Sakura's response was more barbed than the youngest princess had ever sounded in her life.

The only way I wouldn't come back is if they wouldn't let me. Corrin's words echoed back in his head. With a surge of anger and grief, he gently handed Midori to Sakura and turned to Ryoma, raising his voice for the first time ever in his life. "... what did you do? WHAT DID YOU DO?!"

Ryoma remained in a stern and serious demeanour. "Corrin has refused to side with us. She is a traitor to Hoshido now."

"T-that... that's not true!" Sakura cried, "Big Sister didn't want to turn against us and y-you refused to let her see Kaze or Midori! You're no better than the Nohrians who took Mother away from us!"

Ryoma's head snapped towards his youngest sister with shock and hurt. "How could you say that?!"

Sakura looked back at her oldest brother with a determined glare. "Isn't that what you did to Midori?"

Ryoma's expression faltered slightly at the sight of the crying infant in Sakura's arms before he steeled himself again. "That is enough, Sakura. You are still young and have yet to understand the difficult choices of war. Now come, we need to discuss our next plan."

Still shaking from anger and grief, the green-haired ninja turned to his twin brother. "How could you let this happen? No one even let me have a say or see her again."

Saizo's response was cold and firm. "If she isn't with us, she is against us. There is no reason for you to see a traitor."

Kaze suddenly pinned Saizo to the wall. "Have you no heart, brother?! Your niece may have just lost her mother indefinitely and you did nothing to let her see Corrin again!"

"Corrin has betrayed-"

"Don't you dare put words into my wife's mouth!"

"That's enough!" Hinoka finally intervened, pulling Kaze away from his twin. "I'm sorry, Kaze... you may be her husband, but I'm Ryoma's sister and even I couldn't persuade him to let her come back..."

The anger faded from Kaze, leaving only sadness and sorrow. He finally realized his daughter was crying and instinctively reached to take her. Sakura, seeing the ninja had calmed down, handed her back.

Kaze could only leave silently before returning to his room and letting himself cry with Midori. I'm sorry, Corrin... I failed you again...

Some context: Corrin stayed a year in Hoshido and so has been more acquainted with the Hoshidan Retainers. Azura is also married to Hinata and had Hisame 4 months after Midori. He's about a month old when this happens. Subaki is also in a secret relationship with Niles, which may explain some things with the dialogue. Also ripped off Peri and Odin’s lines from the Birthright dialogues since they worked and Peri I got lazy and Odin is just too damn hard to write his dialogue

Vs. Saizo
Saizo: Hmph. I knew this was bound to happen. What I can’t forgive is breaking Kaze’s heart.
Corrin: Saizo! I’m doing this for everyone, including him, can’t you see?
Saizo: Spare me the excuses. My brother was a fool to fall in love with you. No matter, I will settle things here and now.
Corrin: Saizo…

Vs. Kagero
Kagero: It is truly regrettable how things have turned out.
Corrin: Kagero! It doesn’t have to be this way, just stand down and I won’t hurt you!
Kagero: Apologies Lady Corrin, but Lord Ryoma’s word comes first. I must strike you down.
Corrin: Then I apologize for raising my sword, but I can’t let you take me now!

Vs. Azama
Azama: Well, this isn’t very polite. Attacking a defenceless monk? Are you perhaps trying to curry favour with your savage false Nohrian family?
Corrin: Um… no, it isn’t like that…
Azama: Well, whatever the thought process in your absent mind is, I am not afraid. If fate would have you cut me down, so be it.

Vs. Setsuna
Setsuna: I don’t understand. You’re not fighting for Nohr? But also not with us…? Then who are you fighting?
Corrin: Setsuna, I’m trying to not hurt anyone. Please understand that!
Setsuna: Lady Hinoka says you’re the enemy. Even if I don’t get how… I do what she asks of me…
Corrin: I’m trying not to be the enemy, but I can’t just lie down and accept this! Forgive me for what I’m about to do!

Vs. Hinata
Hinata: Lady Corrin, I’ve come to really like you, especially because of Azura… so why are you doing this?
Corrin: Hinata… I don’t mean to turn against you guys. Please just lay down your sword! We don’t have to do this!
Hinata: Look, as much as I like you… I can’t go against Lord Takumi. I’m sorry it has to be this way though.
Corrin: Azura…. Forgive me for any harm that comes to your husband…

Vs. Oboro
Oboro: How could you, Lady Corrin?! Don’t you know what the Nohrians have done?! How could you even think of siding with them?!
Corrin: Oboro, not all Nohrians have done wrong. I can’t turn against all of Nohr just for the actions of a few!
Oboro: I really thought I could trust you! No matter, I’ll put some sense into for Lord Takumi!
Corrin: I can’t change your mind… I’m sorry, but I can’t fall here!

Vs. Subaki
Subaki: Lady Corrin, it isn’t too late to turn around and come back to us. Lady Sakura will forgive you for your mistakes.
Corrin: I’m sorry, Subaki. I can’t turn against Nohr. Please understand.
Subaki: … I may understand more than you think.
Corrin: Huh?!
Subaki: You heard nothing! Any feelings I have must be put aside for Lady Sakura and Hoshido’s sake. Shall we begin?

Vs. Hana
Hana: I thought you had something special here with us! How could you do this to Lady Sakura?
Corrin: Hana please understand! I don’t want to hurt her, but I simply can’t hurt Nohr either!
Hana: Listen, I’ve really come to like you, but Lady Sakura is my best friend. I can’t forgive anyone who hurts her. I must take you down now!
Corrin: I’ve come to like you too, but I can’t allow myself to fall now. I’m sorry, but I must stand firm with my decision!

Vs. Laslow
Laslow: Lady Corrin, you can still come with us. I can try to smooth things over with Lord Xander.
Corrin: And you are…?
Laslow: The name’s Laslow. I understand your motives more than you think, but surely you don’t intend to make enemies of both kingdoms, are you?
Corrin: I can’t turn against either of my families. But if you understand, can’t you help me?
Laslow: Apologies milady, my hands are tied. I cannot leave now.

Vs. Peri
Peri: Hee hee, found you little traitor!
Corrin: I’m not a traitor! I only want what’s good for both sides!
Peri: Not a traitor? But Lord Xander said you were... I'm Peri! No offense, but I'm going to kill you now.
Corrin: None taken. Wait, what am I saying?

Vs. Selena
Selena: Ugh, why did you have to make things complicated by choosing no one?
Corrin: Look…
Selena: It’s Selena. You’re welcome by the way!
Corrin: Selena. I care about both sides too much. I’m just trying to find a solution for both!
Selena: This is so not fair! Now you’re making my job harder! Unfortunately, I answer to Lady Camilla first, so I’m going to have to knock some sense into your dumb head!

Vs. Beruka
Beruka: I am Beruka. I must eliminate you for Lady Camilla.
Corrin: Listen, I don’t want to be your enemy! Please, I’m only trying to do good for both sides!
Beruka: It does not matter. You are the enemy. You must be eliminated.

Vs. Odin
Odin: Halt! I am Odin Dark – warrior chosen by the darkness. It’s been a while, hasn’t it, young Corrin? It’s a shame that I will have to destroy you now, but orders are orders. If only you had stayed true to our glorious and noble kingdom…
Corrin: What are you talking about?
Odin: Oh, that's not the reaction I expected. Do you not remember the darkest and most mysterious of heroes?
Corrin: Um, sorry. I have a really bad memory. REALLY bad. By the way, what’s with the whole “warrior chosen by darkness” thing?
Odin: Yes, well…I am the night! I am the…er… I can’t do this.
Corrin: Then throw down your weapon! There’s no need for us to fight
Odin: No! Must…tame…the darkness… Let’s just get this over with! I can’t control my powers around you…

Vs. Niles
Niles: Well, are you a naive little one? Picking neither side? Don’t you know the world doesn’t work like that? 
Corrin: I’m sorry, but I can’t turn against either side. I know it’s hard to understand but…
Niles: The world doesn’t work like that, sweetheart. Even I have to put my own feelings aside for Lord Leo.
Corrin: … What do you mean?
Niles: Ask less questions, milady. Now then, squirm a little more for me instead, yes?

Vs. Arthur
Arthur: It’s a pleasure to see you, Lady Corrin! I am Arthur, Hero of Justice!
Corrin: A Hero of Justice? Surely you can put your weapon aside and join my cause? I’m not against anyone!
Arthur: Apologies, Lady Corrin. Lady Elise comes first. It would simply be an injustice to leave her.
Corrin: Oh Elise… if only I could convince you to come with me…

Vs. Effie
Effie: Lady Corrin! We finally meet! I am Effie, Lady Elise’s best friend, and I’ll crush you for hurting her!
Corrin: … um I understand your anger, but I really don’t mean to hurt Elise! I’m doing this for her!
Effie: It doesn’t matter! If you have turned against her, I have no choice but to protect her!
Corrin: I really don’t want to do this, but I have to survive if I’m to walk the path I’ve chosen. I’m sorry, Elise!

Current Music: Misery in Hand, Condemnation

The silence could be cut with a blade with how tense the air was.

“What… what do you mean by that?” Asked Sakura.

“I… I won't betray anyone,” said Corrin, her resolve hardening as she turned to Xander. “I won't fight against the people of Nohr after you cared for me all these years. You and Camilla, Leo and Elise... We might not be related by blood, but you are family to me. You've been with me for as long as I can remember.”

“Well said, little princess,” beamed Xander. “What ties us together is thicker than blood.”

Ryoma’s expression darkened. “What are you saying, Corrin? You would discard your true family and side with those who stand against us? After the life you built here?”

“…No.” replied Corrin. “I refuse to fight against my Hoshidan siblings, either. Ryoma...we might have only spent a year together, but you are my family too. You, Hinoka, Takumi, Sakura... I don't want to fight with you on this or any other battlefield.”

“We feel the same, Corrin.” Ryoma managed to smile at her response.

“…But I can't side with either of you against the other,” said Corrin. “I cannot betray any of my family.”

“Corrin, what are you…” a baffled Xander trailed off. “…going to do, then?” Finished Ryoma.

Corrin looked up pleadingly. “I’m so sorry, both of you. Please, set your swords aside! I'm sure a peaceful solution exists. If we could just—“

“I’ve heard enough!” Xander cut in as he unsheathed Siegfried. “Corrin, I can see what you're trying to accomplish here. As your older brother, however, it is my duty to teach you the truth…”

“Not while I still stand…” counted Ryoma, drawing Raijinto. “Corrin is finally back with her family—I will not let you take her again!”

“No, wait!” Corrin began to panic. “Xander! Ryoma!”

“Don't think for a moment that I will let you take Corrin without a fight.” Xander growled. “It seems only right to cross swords with my opposing equal. As the heirs of our respective families, why don't we settle this here and now?”

“Prepare yourself, then.” Ryoma retaliated. “I will defeat you in defense of my kingdom and my sister!”

“Please, both of you, stop! We can still talk this out inste—!” Corrin cried out helplessly as the two eldest princes charged at each other, blades drawn.

“Gah, it's no use! They just won't listen to me…” Corrin thought to herself. “I’ll have to step in if I want to stop them!”

*After the battle*

“…Tch.” Xander glared with frustration. “Why, Corrin? Why would you turn on us this way? Even if we aren't blood related, don't you feel any loyalty at all?”

“Xander!” Corrin protested, “I just want you to listen to what I'm saying!”

“Corrin…” Ryoma seemed equally crestfallen. “Why would you betray Hoshido? Have you lost all sense of justice?”

“You don't understand, Ryoma!” Corrin cried, “I haven't betrayed you!”

“I…always thought of you as a sister…” Xander said sadly.  

“I still think of you as family!” Corrin said, “Put aside your sword, you could meet my husband and daughter-“

“You married a Hoshidan?!” Xander suddenly had a dark expression. “Damn it all.” He turned to his troops. ”Spread word among the troops. Corrin has turned traitor! From this moment forth, she is our enemy and should be captured on sight!”

Elise seemed hesitant. “Wait, but Xander…”

Xander shook his head. “No Elise, if she has married a Hoshidan, she has clearly integrated herself among them. She is not coming back with us.”

“She’s made her decision,” said Leo, “There’s no talking her out of it.”

“Sorry darling,” said Camilla, “It seems our darling Corrin has not chosen us.”

“Why won't you listen to me?!” Corrin cried in frustration as she watched her Nohrian family turn away and leave her. She turned back to her Hoshidan family, but felt her heart ache at the sight of Ryoma’s expression.

“Corrin... Even now, I still remember the agony I felt the day you were kidnapped. I know we can't get back the time we lost... But... I still hoped that someday we would be reunited as a family... I thought after the life you built with us, we were one again… I see now that I was living a fantasy.” Turning to his troops, he ordered, “…Tell everyone. Corrin is truly lost to us! If she insists on becoming our enemy, then all we can do is fight her!"

Sakura gasped at that declaration. “Big brother! You can’t possibly-“

“I’m doing what’s best for Hoshido, Sakura!”

Corrin’s heart dropped. “Wait Ryoma! Kaze, Midori, can’t I see them again?”

Ryoma’s face was stone cold. “If your family wasn’t enough to persuade you to come and fight with us, I see no reason for them to see a traitor.”

Her heart shattered at the words. “Ryoma please! At least-“ Her desperate lunge towards her Hoshidan brother was stopped by Saizo. “Do not get close, traitor.” 

“No! Please! Ryoma! It isn’t like that!” Corrin struggled against Saizo's grip, tears of desperation now falling down her cheeks.

Hinoka seemed just as reluctant at the decision. “Ryoma… she might not be thinking straight, surely we can take her back and let her calm down before anything else?”

“No,” snapped Takumi, “She was totally fine tearing through our ranks. I don’t know why she would turn against us after everything, but it’s clear trusting someone from Nohr would only lead to heartbreak.”

"This is my final warning,” said Ryoma. “When we meet again, we will be enemies”

“Wait!” Called out Corrin before two hands suddenly pulled her back.

“Corrin? What happened here? What have you done?” It was Azura, with Jakob behind her. “Milady, what is going on? What have you gotten yourself into?”

“… how are you here anyway? Where is Hisame?”

“Don’t worry,” reassured Azura, “He’s safe with me,” gesturing to the small bundle wrapped near her. “What I’m worried about is you. I had a premonition that you were in danger, so Jakob and I rushed over.”

“I… I couldn’t choose… they’ve both rejected me… I’ve lost everything.”

Azura sighed in resignation, “Then nothing you can say will reach either of them. We need to retreat for now. We can’t be caught.”

Still weeping as she was reluctantly pulled away by her friend and butler, she called out to the retreating Hoshido army. “Tell Midori I love her! And tell Kaze… I’m so sorry…”

Current Mood: lonely
Current Music: Thorn in You

Corrin's mind was racing with thousands of questions as she raced towards the border plains. Father- no, Garon had set her up to die? The Nohrians were invading? How long had Xander possibly known about her true identity? Was there even a way without choosing sides?

The thoughts cut short as she heard a familiar voice she had not heard in months.

"Corrin, you're alive!" Xander exclaimed with relief. "They haven't harmed you, have they?"

"Xander!" Corrin couldn't hide her own relief. "I'm fine. But... why are you invading Hoshido?!"

Xander looked at her with a hardened expression, "Father say's it's time to show our true strength. Join us, and we'll end this quickly. If we conquer Hoshido here and now, we can avoid unnecessary bloodshed."

Corrin hesitated at that response. "Xander... I...I need a minute."

"Be careful, Corrin," warned Ryoma behind her. "That man is a Nohrian commander!"

"Ryoma..." Corrin's heart sunk realizing the two older brothers between her. She looked back at Xander and her heart sunk further seeing the siblings she thought she would never see again.

"Corrin! I was so worried about you." Camilla exclaimed from her wyvern. "Don't ever wander away from me again!"

"I'm glad you're OK, Corrin," added Leo. "You must have the devil's own luck!"

"Yaaay!" cheered Elise, "We got our sister back!"

"Nohrian scum!" shouted Hinoka. "First you kidnap her, now you lied to her?! Corrin is MY sister, not yours!"

Camilla's eyes narrowed at the eldest Hoshidan princess. "You are mistaken. Corrin is my sweet little sister. You may not have her."

"Don't be fooled by their words," countered Ryoma, "You belong with your true family in Hoshido!"

"We have loved you and raised you since you were a child." Xander pleaded. "Come home, little princess. We can live as a family once more!"

Ryoma made one last implorement, "Come home to Hoshido, Corrin!"

"No, Corrin!" retaliated Xander, "Nohr is your home!"

Corrin's mind was spinning at the centre of two very difficult paths laid out in front of her. As if recognizing his younger sister's mental paralysis, Ryoma made another gesture. "This way."

All her other Hoshidan siblings ran up, looking at Corrin pleadingly. "B-big sister?" called out Sakura.

"She's my sister!" Elise yelled back, as Corrin turned to see her Nohrian family looking similarly pleading. "We're your family." Xander's eyes were just as longing as he reached out to her.

Corrin's heart was filled with pain. How could she ever turn her sword against one or the other? Her mind began to think of a thousand things.

She thinks about Midori and Kaze waiting for her back in Hoshido. She thinks about her mother, who she had only begun to know. She thinks about how the Nohrians have taken her from her mother, then set up to have said mother killed. She thinks about the beautiful cherry blossoms, the abundance of life and joy and peace. She thinks about the kindness of her four Hoshidan siblings, even Takumi. She thinks of Ryoma, telling her the lost stories of her childhood. She thinks of Hinoka, who was so eager to show her pegasus and training and who wanted her back so much. She thinks of Takumi, who even with his seemingly cold and unapproachable demeanour, taught her archery when she asked. She thinks of Sakura, kind and timid, still trying to bond with Corrin who was as much of a stranger to her as she was to Corrin. And yet...

She thinks about everything growing up. She thinks of the laughs shared over a dining table, even if there wasn't much to speak of. She thinks about everything she wanted to show Midori there. She thinks about how that was where she met Kaze, as unconventional of a meeting it was. She thinks of what she herself hasn't seen of it in all the years she was in seclusion. She thinks of the warmth and familiarity of Nohr, of how empty and incomplete she feels in Hoshido. She thinks of the training sessions with Xander, who never faltered in his strength and encouragement. She thinks of Camilla, doting her at every possible chance. She thinks of Leo and all the strategies, the lessons she had with him. She thinks of Elise and her unending joy in a gloomy kingdom, all the tea parties and jumping hugs. She thinks about how she wanted to have them meet Kaze and Midori, of how much they would have loved their niece.

She thinks all these thoughts before she rests on one last. Why she came here. Gripping the Yato tightly, she finally speaks.

"I... I won't betray anyone."

"Lord Ryoma!" A scout shouted as he ran up to the royal family. "I have important news. A massive Nohrian force is gathering at our border."

Ryoma growled. "This is the final straw. I have worked hard to avoid an all-out war, but now... Death is too good for them. Who's with me?"

Corrin was still too stunned from everything. The strange cloaked figure, the exploding Ganglari, her mother's death, her sudden transformation, her lost memories, the Yato choosing her and now an invasion? Time seemed to move too fast for her and she couldn't keep up.

"Corrin." Her husband's voice was the first thing to break her out of her daze. She turned to him. "What are you going to do?"

Corrin's resolve hardened as she held the Yato tighter in her hand. The key to peace... They had called the divine sword. It had chosen her. Maybe...?

"I'm going to go out there. I'm going to convince Xander to stand down, and try to find the root of all these problems. My Nohrian siblings aren't bad people... I just need to help them see that King Garon's way isn't the right one."

Kaze's eyes widened at that. "Are you sure, my love? That is a dangerous mission you are assigning yourself. What would your Hoshidan siblings think? How could you even begin to convince the Nohrians?"

Corrin looked at him determinedly. "I'm not turning against them. I think there are greater things at large out there, if I can just convince both sides, maybe we can work things out. Together. And Xander wouldn't hurt me. Surely he still remembers I'm his little princess."

"What about Midori? She needs her mother!" Corrin's heart ached at her small daughter asleep in her father's arms, finally settled from the chaos. But her choice was made, and it wasn't one she made lightly.

"I'm sorry. But if there's anywone who can talk to them... it has to me."

Kaze gave a sigh of resignation, before smiling sadly at his beloved wife. "I know that I cannot stop you on this choice you made. All I ask is that you come back to us... please... I couldn't handle losing you a second time."

"Don't worry Kaze. The only way I don't come back is if Hoshido doesn't let me." laughed Corrin before she took off with renewed determination.