The Future Past 3/Script

Pre-Battle

Naga: Well met, Outrealm Warriors.
Chrom: Naga. So this must be about that alternate future again...
Naga: Indeed. Thanks to you, the eight children you assisted managed to reach Ylisstol. Meanwhile, three more took the Emblem and the final Gemstone to the princess. But their time, too, grows short. They and the princess are soon fated to die at the fell dragon's hands. If the princess is lost, nothing can save their world from its demise. Please... You must intervene before it is too late.
Chrom: Don't worry. We'll save them all.
Naga: Thank you. Then I will send you now to the brink—the moment in time before the world falls. Again I offer the same counsel. The world you are about to visit bears a great resemblance to your own. You may encounter people you know or people you love... If you do, fight by their sides. It will give them great courage and strength.
Chrom: I understand.
Naga: This will likely be your final battle in their world. Now that my Voice there has been silenced, I cannot bind your worlds together for long. Still, I believe you will find the faint light of hope sleeping within the fell dragon. I believe that you will work a miracle greater than any despair he can sow. Now go, warriors. Let destiny once again be reshaped by your hands!

Battle

Note: The Lucina, Severa, Gerome, and Laurent in this scene, as well as the rest of this chapter, are NPCs native to this chapter's realm.

Lucina: I'm so glad you're all safe!
Severa: It's good to see you too. Here you go—one Gemstone, and one Fire Emblem! I hope you're happy. These were NOT easy to get.
Laurent: Severa, would it hurt you to just hand them over without being condescending?
Severa: I can hand them over any way I like! You're the one being obnoxious.
Lucina: Heh. You haven't changed a bit. That comes as a relief. I cannot thank you enough for retrieving these.
Gerome: Keep them close. We need to be ready to start the rite the moment we have all the Gemstones.
Lucina: I know.
Severa: How are things here in Ylisstol? Are the people safe?
Lucina: Well, we've managed to keep casualties to a minimum, but... ......
Severa: What's wrong, Lucina?
Lucina: I...I'm so sorry... I failed her. I failed Lady Tiki...
Severa: What?!
Gerome: Has something happened to the Voice?
Lucina: The enemy snuck into the castle. Lady Tiki took a blow for me and fell... It's my fault... I should have been paying closer attention...
Laurent: You're not to blame, Lucina. We should all be grateful you survived.
Severa: Poor Lucina... I'm sorry we weren't here for you.
Lucina: It's all right. I need to pull myself together... Lady Tiki said we must have faith. Those were her last words—to believe that mankind still had hope. She said to believe that you would all come back. And now three of you stand here before me. The others are safe too. I just know it.
Gerome: I believe it too. Once they have returned safely, we'll need to depart for Mount Prism at once. There you can perform the Awakening.
Laurent: No doubt the mount is already teeming with Risen. If we come to blows, run to the altar as fast as you can. We'll hold off the Risen.
Severa: Let's see how those dastards like it once the Awakening is complete. We'll destroy them and Grima alike and restore peace to the world!
Lucina: Thank you... All of you.
Grima: ...Doesn't that sound like a darling little scheme?
Lucina: Who are you?!
Grima: I am the wings of despair and the breath of ruin. I am the fell dragon, Grima. How good to see you again, child of Naga. When was it again we last met? Ah yes. I believe it was when I butchered the divine dragon's Voice.
Lucina: That was you?
Grima: Indeed. I was hoping to end your life, but I rid myself of a pest all the same. Soon I will send this world into its final death throes. But energy has been drawn away from the Dragon's Table since your little...theft. Even incomplete, that Gemstone and Emblem possess considerable power. I am afraid I must take them back now.
Lucina: You can try.
Grima: Or you could just give them to me. They're worthless to you. It's not like you'll be seeing the other Gemstones anytime soon.
Gerome: I hope you're not implying our friends are dead.
Grima: I do not "imply." I have sent the strongest of my Grimleal to dispatch your comrades. They are almost certainly dead by now.
Gerome: "Almost certainly" doesn't sound very certain to me. Perhaps it's the corpse of your little servant you should be concerned about.
Severa: Yeah. Our friends are no wimps! They've outwitted death more times than you can imagine. You think you can scare us with baby threats like that?
Laurent: If they were dead, you would have proof. You don't. Ergo, they are not dead. Really, your bluffing begs for practice.
Grima: ...... Then you refuse to return what you have taken?
Lucina: We refuse.
Grima: Very well. I was hoping not to have to flex any...muscle... GRRRAGH! (Grima sends out an attack)
Lucina: Eeeyaaargh! Nngh... *huff, huff* Is...is everyone all right?
Grima: With the next blow, I will kill you. The Gemstone and the Emblem. NOW.
Lucina: Never!
Grima: Still you resist me? Very well. Die, if you wish.
Severa: Nngh... You'll have to go through ME!
Lucina: Severa, what are you—?
Grima: What stupidity is this?
Severa: Lucina, I'll stop <his/her> attacks...even if it kills me. Now RUN! While you've still got the chance!
Lucina: No! Severa, I can't...
Severa: You have to, you idiot! If you die, we all die! The world will come to an end!
Lucina: I know, but...
Severa: Mother said her greatest pride as a pegasus knight was defending the exalted family. I may not be a pegasus knight, but I can still share in their duty. I can still protect you!
Grima: Impertinent little brat. What could you ever hope to protect? You're less than a shadow of your mother. If I could break her, then I'll have no trouble breaking you.
Severa: Rrgh...
Laurent: You do not give the lady nearly enough credit.
Severa: Laurent!
Laurent: Severa deduced this would be our best chance and acted swiftly. And she will not stand alone. You will have to go through me as well. Can you defeat us both before Lucina escapes? Or are you all sardonic quips?
Severa: Laurent, you fool! We don't BOTH have to die...
Laurent: What, you think this is some noble gesture? I'm simply following the wisest course. A shield twice as thick services twice as well.
Severa: Uh-huh. It's a noble gesture. But still...thanks.
Laurent: Certainly. Your life is worth the effort, Severa.
Severa: Yeah, I know. Heh heh...
Gerome: ...... I'm staying too.
Severa: Gerome...
Gerome: By Laurent's logic, a shield thrice as thick would be an improvement. But I can make it four times as strong.
Laurent: Gerome, no! We cannot lose you and Minerva too.
Gerome: Minerva wishes to fight for Lucina. She told me as much before. And more importantly, she insists we meet our destinies together. If death is to come for us, it must take us both.
Laurent: ...All right, then.
Gerome: Forgive us, Lucina, but we must leave the hardest task to you. Find the rest of our friends, and put this wyrm out of its misery.
Lucina: No... You don't have to do this!
Severa: There's no time to debate it. Go, Lucina! ...GO!
Laurent: Now!
Gerome: ...Please.
Lucina: Agh... This cannot be happening! Must I abandon my friends and run like a dog? Is that the price of saving the world? Too many have died already... Please, someone grant me the power to change this!
Grima: Ha ha ha! Isn't this precious? What will it be, child of Naga? Will you buy a few more minutes of life by watching your friends get butchered? Or will you stay behind and render their sacrifice meaningless? I must say I shall enjoy this either way!
Lucina: Rrgh...
Grima: Don't you see? Humanity is finished. You have no future. Your mother and father are dead. And now, the exalted line... ENDS...WITH...YOU!
???: ...Not quite!
Grima: Huh?!
Lucina: What...? Falchion is glowing... I...I know that voice!
???: Stay strong! We're here to help! Not one of you needs to die today!
Grima: I-impossible... He's dead! I buried him myself! There's now way he could be here. This future has already been set in stone!
???: That's not true, Lucina! Anything can change! And I'm going to prove it to you right here and now! (Chrom's army warps in)
Chrom: Is everyone ready? This will be our final battle here. We have to make certain everyone pulls through!
Severa: H-how did they get here?
Laurent: What matters is that they appear to be on our side.
Gerome: It could be a trap. Stay vigilant.
Lucina: But that's...my father! It doesn't make any sense!
Grima: I see Naga has played her last card. Summoning help from another world? Pfft! She should realize by now that she has already lost. There's no going back. Instead she wastes my time with petty tricks! (teleports away from the group) ...But it makes no difference. A mountain of maggots is crushed as easily as one. If it's a reunion you seek, my soldiers shall welcome you on my behalf. You will soon be begging for the quick death I was willing to give you! (Risen appear)
Chrom: Risen! Damn...
Grima: How I've missed fighting with you, Chrom. Come—stand at my side like you used to! Nothing would pleasure me more than stabbing you in the back a second time! Heh heh heh... Mwaaa ha ha ha HA HA HA HA!

(should any of the NPC children be defeated)

Lucina: No... I was so...close... Just a step away...from saving...our world... Nngh... Father... My friends... Forgive me… (game over)
Laurent: I wish...I could have lived to see...what peace was...like…
Gerome: Be at peace, Minerva... At last...the pain and suffering...will…
Severa: D-did I fight well, Mother? Please tell me...I…

Conversations

Main article: The Future Past 3/Conversations

Post-Battle

If all children survived

Immediate aftermath

Note: The Owain, Inigo, Brady, Kjelle, Cynthia, Yarne, Noire, Nah, and Tiki in this scene, as well as the rest of this chapter, are NPCs native to this chapter's realm.

Chrom: *Huff, huff* Is it over?
Grima: Nngh... Gyaaahhh... HOW?! This is not YOUR WORLD... YOU SHOULD NOT be able TO DRAWN UPON this kind OF POWER! ...Just wait. I am NOT FINISHED with YOU YET. No matter HOW YOU STRUGGLE, I WILL see you DESTROYED! ...Now DIEEEEEEE!
Chrom: ...Ahh! ...... Huh? Why isn't <he/she> attacking?
Grima: ...Run...Chrom...
Chrom: What?
Grima: ...You have to...get away from me...
Chrom: Wh-what are you talking about?
Grima: ...There's...no time... ...I don't want...to kill you... ...I can't bear...to watch you... ...die again...
Chrom: No. That voice... It can't be... Whoa! (Chrom and the others are warped away)

(scene change)

Chrom: Rrgh... Are we back in our world?
Naga: Warriors? Why have you returned? ...Did you fail in your task?!
Chrom: I can't be certain... We were fighting, and then a great force spirited us away.
Naga: The fell dragon sent you back.
Chrom: Yes, but...I think he was trying to save us. ...Huh? Who's there? Show yourself!
Tiki: ......
Naga: Tiki? But...you died in that world.
Tiki: Yes. And now only my spirit remains. But I came here to tell you something important before I take your place there. Before I become tied to that world forever...
Naga: Take my place?
Tiki: You know what I mean. And why.
Naga: ......
Tiki: But everything will turn out all right. We have you to thank for that, Naga, for sending help. And you, brave warriors, for giving it. In our world, Naga is dead, but you fought in her stead and gave us hope. We cannot thank you enough. But we will always remember—
Chrom: Huh? She's gone! What just happened?
Naga: ...We won.
Chrom: Huh?
Naga: Their world is about to be saved.
Chrom: I don't understand...
Naga: Somehow your efforts have pulled them out of the pit of despair...
Chrom: So they'll all be safe?
Naga: I am certain of it now. Thank you, Chrom. And you, Robin. I was right to place my trust in you.

(scene change)

Lucina: Father? ...Father! Where did he go?
Grima: He must have escaped to his own world... The former owner of this body appears to still have a faint hold on it... Damn <him/her>! I wanted to savor killing Chrom all over again!
Lucina: I would never let that happen!
Grima: Heh. You know, the <man/woman> who used to control this body loved your father. <He/She> would have died to protect Chrom. And in sending Chrom away just now, <his/her> spirit has finally perished. ...Now the games will cease. The only world in which you'll see your father again is the WORLD OF DEATH! ...Mmgh? What?
Lucina: It can't be… (Cynthia's group rushes in)
Cynthia: We're back, Lucina! Sorry we're late!
Lucina: Cynthia! Nah! Kjelle! Noire! You're all safe! Oh, thank the gods!
Grima: Impossible! You should all be dead by now... Naga! She must have interfered! Which means Morgan has failed me...
Kjelle: Nice shot, Noire. I thought for certain we were out of range.
Noire: Hee hee. I'm just glad I could help...
Severa: Well, nice of you to take your TIME! Do you know how worried we've been?
Cynthia: Hey, no need to worry. We've got the Gemstones right here.
Nah: That's right! Are you ready to perform the Awakening?
Lucina: Not yet... We still need Argent and Sable...
???: ...You mean this Argent and Sable? (Inigo's group rushes in)
Lucina: Inigo! Owain! Brady! Yarne!
Inigo: We saw Grima attack Ylisstol and came as fast as we could. Sorry we couldn't make it sooner!
Gerome: Nothing can kill you, can it?
Owain: Of course not! But a true vanquisher of evil must wait for the moment of truth before he can triumph.
Laurent: Heh. Vanquisher of evil? You're a wreck. All of you are. ...But at least we're together again.
Yarne: That's right! I sure am glad none of you are extinct...
Brady: Did somebody order some Gemstones? Catch, Lucina!
Lucina: Thank you, Brady! All of you—you've all done magnificently. The Fire Emblem and its true power finally belong to Ylisse again!
Grima: Grr... <So the Morgan I sent after your group failed as well. So much for manipulating the children's sympathies.../Morgan has failed me twice... So much for manipulating the child's sympathies…> But it matters little. The Fire Emblem gives you no power over me. ...Not now that Naga is dead.
Lucina: Sh-she...what?
Grima: I killed that meddling dragon ages ago. Did you really think I would let her live and risk someone performing the Awakening?
Lucina: Y-you're lying...
Grima: Ha... I'm sure you wish I were. But this time I speak the truth. Your only hope died with her.
Lucina: Then...everything we have done... It was meaningless?
Grima: Completely, utterly meaningless! I will grant you no escape from this coil of despair. Each and every one of you is destined to die here and now!
Tiki: Wrong, Grima! You have not accounted for everything.
Grima: What? The Voice of Naga!
Lucina: Lady Tiki!
Tiki: I will help you perform the Awakening...as this world's new Naga.
Grima: There IS no new Naga! I killed you!
Tiki: You took my life, but not my spirit. The <man/woman> inside you—Robin—intervened. <He/She> wanted me to be here to ensure your destruction, fell dragon.
Grima: NO! Is there no end to <his/her> meddling?! I-it doesn't matter! None of this matters! You need to be on Mount Prism to perform the Awakening. And I will kill YOU ALL before you get there!
Tiki: Wrong again. You forget why the exalts performed the rite on Mount Prism in the first place. It was because the divine dragon's power was strongest there. But now that your Risen have defiled it, the mount no longer has any power. Naga's power has focused elsewhere in response. Do you know where? Inside the remains of the Voice, which you were foolish enough to leave... Right here. In Ylisstol.
Grima: Wha—?!
Tiki: If you had left Mount Prism alone, Grima, you might have stood a chance. Instead, you have brought the Awakening right to your feet. Are you ready, Lucina? Speak the words.
Lucina: I am ready.
Grima: No! I will not leave you the time! I WILL KILL YOU! ...Huh? Why can't I move? My body is...nngh... No! Not now! Why does he/she KEEP INTERFERING...
Lucina: ...Hear me, Tiki! I bear proof of our sacred covenant! In the name of the exalted blood, I ask for the divine dragon's power! Baptize me in fire, that I may become your true daughter!

(Lucina and Falchion CG)

Tiki: Awakener, your heart has been tested and deemed worthy. Cleansed in my fire, your desire has proven to burn the stronger. I shall now imbue your blade with my power.
Lucina: Thank you, milady!
Grima: Rrgh... NOOOOOO! I would CRUSH YOU WORMS if I...could just...CONTROL my BODY... Why does <he/she> STILL REFUSE to become one with me? Why does <he/she> INTERFERE?! Damn you, Robin! You...will...PAAAAAAY!
Tiki: Now, Lucina! Your first task as exalt is at hand! Wipe the fell dragon from existence, and usher hope back into the land!
Cynthia: That's right, Lucina! Show Grima what a real hero can do!
Kjelle: You will prevail. We'll all be right by your side!
Noire: Avenge the fallen! Fight for those we loved and lost!
Nah: Return our pain and suffering on that monster a hundredfold!
Owain: Use that sword to sunder the dark shackles of fate and deliver us!
Inigo: Put an end to despair so that Ylisse can be full of smiles again!
Brady: It ain't over yet, but it's about to be! I know you're gonna pull this off!
Yarne: The fell dragon will never stop us from living in happiness again!
Laurent: One miracle after another has made this possible. Now it's time for one more!
Gerome: Go, and do what our parents could not.
Severa: I believe in you, Lucina! So you'd better not let me down!
Grima: ...... ...I'm ready, Lucina... ...Finish it...
Lucina: I swear to you all...our days of defeat end here. Father, Mother...watch over me. Because today—right now—I'm taking our world BACK!

(scripted battle scene: Lucina attacks and defeats Grima with a 99 damage critical hit)

Grima: ...At last...I can rest... ...No one else...will suffer... ...because of me... ...Thank...you... ...I hope your lives are...filled... ...with...joy... ...... ...... ...Morgan...please forgive me... ...I put you through...so...much... ...... ...... (fades away)
Lucina: ...It's over. Peace at last... I can't believe it. I've done it, Father...
Tiki: Well done, Lucina. You have saved the world... All of you.
Lucina: Lady Tiki! It wasn't us. We have you to thank...and those warriors who came to our aid. Without them, we would have perished, and all hopes for the future with us.
Tiki: Perhaps. But we only had the chance to help you because you held fast. Even against terrible odds, you refused to give up. You should be proud. From this day on, you shall be the pillars on which a peaceful future is built.
Lucina: And you as well, milady,
Tiki: No, Lucina. My role is finished. I cannot stay here with you. Remember, I am no longer the divine dragon's Voice, but she herself. I must not meddle in human affairs.
Lucina: But, milady!
Tiki: Don't worry, Lucina. I'll always be watching over you. Just as the Hero-King and your father continue to do so. I may be out of reach, but I will always be close.
Lucina: Lady Tiki... Thank you... As long as you're watching, I will not let you down. I promise to bring this world an era of peace that can never be broken!
Tiki: And I know you will. May we one day meet again, Lucina. There will always be a place for the Twelve Heroes at Naga's side.

(Lucina and Sky CG)

Lucina: ......
Severa: She's gone.
Lucina: Yes. She will be missed. But... I believe we will see her again.
Severa: Me too. And we'll certainly have our hands full in the meantime. After all, we just saved the world! I bet Mother and Father never expected me to do anything even half as amazing as this. ...You see that? I'm not such a letdown of a daughter...after all... *Sniff* I...I just wish they were here...
Gerome: Well, there is no bringing them back. But we can keep them alive by protecting this world they dreamed of and died for. Isn't that right, Minerva? (Minerva roars) I agree. They'll be watching over us every step of the way.
Laurent: It's so strange... I feel like I've stepped into another existence. All of our struggles...our battles with the Risen, our journey into Plegia... They already feel like they happened to someone else. I used to wish that I would wake up to find it had all been a nightmare. But now when I wake, I shall be overjoyed at the knowledge that this is no dream.
Lucina: Indeed. What matters is that this is real. Had I lost even one of you along the way, we would not be here. Each of you played an irreplaceable part in this victory. Thank you. Ylisse and I are so lucky to have you.
Cynthia: And we're lucky to have you! You're the hero of all heroes!
Kjelle: I am proud to know you all. Your strength and determination inspire me.
Noire: I'm just glad everyone is safe. There were times when I assumed the worst...
Nah: We'll never be apart again. And our whole lives are ahead of us.
Owain: I just... Argh, there are no words! Curse these tears that flow unbidden!
Inigo: Well, enjoy it. I'm hoping this will be our last cry in a good long while.
Brady: Damn right! *Sniff* I'm gonna let it all out right now!
Yarne: Thank the gods we've all survived. I could do somersaults!
Lucina: Hee hee. Well, we should be off. Night will fall soon—our first peaceful night for as long as I can remember. We need to tell as many people as we can, so that they, too, can rest at ease. Tomorrow a new sun will rise on Ylisse. Many did not survive to see it... But those of us who will must dedicate our lives to protecting that light. ...... Tiki, my friends... I thank you again. And you, Father... You who crossed between worlds to save me. May the gods keep you safe.

Epilogue: Nearly a year later

Laurent: Where is everyone? They're late.
Noire: But, Laurent... The meeting doesn't start for another 10 minutes.
Laurent: Well, they ought to be early so we can start on time! The Shepherds don't gather just for ceremony, you know. It's been less than a year since we defeated Grima... Already they're acting as if the world is immune to crisis!
Noire: I-I'm sorry...
Laurent: You don't need to apologize, Noire. You got here even earlier than I did.
Noire: Well, I figured I could work on these while I waited...
Laurent: Oh, that's right. I'd heard you started making good-luck charms for the people. I'm told they're quite the hit. It must be that happiness curse you put on them. Can I have a look at that one?
Noire: DESIST, FOOL! YOUR CLUMSY HANDS WILL ONLY DESTROY MY CREATION.
Laurent: Eek! Right, then...
Kjelle: Well, you two are early. I thought I would be the first here.
Noire: Hello, Kjelle. Have you finished evaluating the new recruits?
Kjelle: I have. They're quite tough! Although that probably goes without saying, considering the horrors they have survived. They'll make fine Shepherds. Don't you agree, Owain?
Owain: Yep. They were, uh...something.
Noire: That's all you have to say? They were "something"? ...Who are you, and what have you done with Owain?
Kjelle: Haven't you heard? Owain's world has been shattered.
Laurent: Shattered? How?
Owain: You don't understand... The world finally SPEAKS MY LANGUAGE.
Laurent: Huh?
Owain: Now when I say, "My sword hand twitches," people don't look at me funny. They say, "Lord Owain will show the forces of evil what's what," or... "Don't mess with the blood of the exalt!" ...They actually say what I expect them to! I don't know how to cope.
Kjelle: Well, enjoy it while you can. The novelty will wear off soon enough.
Owain: Heh. That's what you think. I'm already toying with the idea of adapting my adventures for the theater. Just imagine: Tales of the Great and Mighty Owain—now with song and dance!
Laurent: I'd...rather not imagine that, actually...
Kjelle: Is that...Inigo and Brady and Yarne? Hey! Over here!
Inigo: It's good to see you all again! How long as it been?
Brady: Feels like just yesterday we were fightin' that evil dragon, yeah?
Yarne: Shh! Keep it down, Brady! You're gonna give away my position!
Owain: What, are you still worried about going extinct?
Yarne: Are you kidding? No! I'm trying to get away from those lunatic conservationists.
Inigo: Apparently, the Ylisseans found out how rare Yarne's species is. Now they've started a Save the Taguel foundation.
Yarne: If I try to eat anything even remotely suspect, they pin me to the ground! They won't let me shape-shift, either, in case I "become a target." I'm so sick of being treated like a pet, I could retch...
Noire: Not exactly a dream come true, huh?
Yarne: It's nice to not worry about dying out, but they follow me everywhere. ...And I mean EVERYWHERE.
Nah: I know the feeling.
Yarne: Nah!
Nah: It's good to see you all.
Laurent: You too, but...
Brady: Those are some serious bags under your eyes there. What gives?
Nah: Tell me about it. I can barely sleep. Now that Lady Tiki is gone, everyone has started worshipping me. Worshipping! They think I'm the new Voice. I can't so much as step outside without being hounded...
Yarne: Finally, someone who understands my pain! The rest of you are lucky you're human.
Nah: Then again, they give me absolutely anything I ask for, which is kind of nice. Let me know if you need anything. I've got you covered.
Yarne: On second thought, you don't understand my pain at all… (a wyvern roars) Wh-what was that screech? An enemy?!
Gerome: How dare you speak so rudely of such a fine creature.
Yarne: Ack! Stranger danger! Whoever you are, stay away!
Gerome: ...Hm?
Nah: Yarne's right. I don't recognize him either.
Kjelle: Are you one of the new recruits? I'll find someone to take care of you.
Gerome: ......
Owain: Sorry for the trouble, but there are a few papers you'll need to fill out first...
Gerome: ...Are you all DAFT? It's me. ...Gerome!
Owain: G-Gerome? Oh yeah... I guess you were sorta...shaped like that.
Noire: Where's your mask, Gerome?
Gerome: I decided I no longer need it. I haven't worn it in some time, actually. To be honest, it, uh...it made it kind of hard to see the wyverns...
Noire: And how is the wyvern conservation project going?
Gerome: Well enough. Truthfully, the best part of taking off my mask is that no one recognizes me. No one treats me like a hero. I am completely, blissfully anonymous!
Kjelle: Lucky you! Perhaps we all should have worn masks during our struggles. Or maybe we should all go buy some right now...
Inigo: Oh, yes. I'm sure THAT will stop us from standing out. Anyway, I like being a celebrity. The house is always packed when Grima's slayer takes the dance floor!
Nah: You finally became a dancer?
Inigo: I became someone who dances, anyway. It makes people smile, and that makes me happy too. If things go well, I might start taking offers to dance at festivals.
Nah: That would be amazing! Just think of all the girls who would throw themselves at your feet.
Inigo: Hmm... I'm sort of over all that. Well, not quite over it, but...
Nah: Wait a second... The world's most notorious womanizer has retired?!
Inigo: It's just...now that I dance, girls smile back even without a terrible pickup line. And besides, I'm busy with my Shepherd duties and dance practice and the like.
Brady: No kiddin'. You messed up your steps in the third song in today's set.
Inigo: Was it that obvious?
Brady: Was it obvious?! I thought I was playin' the wrong song, you klutz! Mess up all you want in practice, but you better shape up for the real deal. ...Although I could stand to work on my playin' a bit too.
Inigo: Yes, it would probably help if you gave up weeping during your own accompaniment.
Laurent: Brady's playing for you?
Brady: Yeah. I write the songs and play violin, and he dances along. I always wanted to be a composer, so it was a good fit. Ma wanted it too...when she was alive.
Noire: Well, I think it's wonderful you both made your dreams come true.
Brady: Thanks. ...I brew a mean cuppa tea too, ya know. One of these days I'll run with that. But right now I got other things on the slate.
Inigo: Owain's going to join us, he said. What was the idea again?
Owain: I'm going to immortalize my numerous adventures in song and dance. My vocal cords twitch!
Kjelle: Here we go again...
Laurent: So is everyone here? We should get started.
Lucina: Pardon me, but might I join you?
Laurent: ...Ah!
Inigo: Lucina?!
Brady: Shouldn't you be in the castle?
Lucina: Don't worry. I've left Ylisstol in the hands of capable soldiers. It'll be fine while I'm away.
Gerome: We're not worried about Ylisstol. We're worried about you! As gifted as you are with a sword, the exalt shouldn't be walking around alone.
Lucina: Who said I was alone?
Gerome: Huh?
Cynthia: Ta-daaa! Say hello to Cynthia of the ALL NEW Ylissean Pegasus Knights!
Kjelle: Cynthia?! Where did you come from?
Cynthia: Great entrance, right? I always dreamed Phila's knights would one day ride again. And hey, if the Shepherds get another shot, who says the pegasus knights can't too?
Lucina: Cynthia begged me, and I just couldn't say no.
Cynthia: Hey, either way, you need protection, right? Win-win. Me and my sisters won't let anyone put a scratch on you!
Noire: Sisters? Who else is in the pegasus knights?
Severa: ......
Noire: Severa? I was wondering why I hadn't seen you at the Shepherds' camp. You enlisted in the pegasus knights?
Severa: Does it matter? Yeesh, I wasn't about to say no to Cynthia. And don't get it in your head that I want to be like my mother.
Noire: Heh. Why would I ever think that?
Cynthia: Severa's AMAZING, you guys. She handles a lance better than anyone, and you should see her toss a javelin! I bet Cordelia herself couldn't throw half as far. The rest of us have a lot of catching up to do.
Nah: I can see the capital is in good hands!
Lucina: And I am too. So put your worries to rest. And really, can you blame me for coming? You gather everyone together and don't even invite me? I've missed you!
Owain: You take after your father, Lucina. At least from what I've heard. ...Anyway, here we all are. The Twelve Heroes! Let's get this meeting started, Laurent.
Laurent: Right you are. Thank you for all coming to this regular meeting of the Shepherds… ...And next, I have a report about the restoration of Mount Prism, which is— (Minerva roars) ...Gerome. Please keep your mount quiet during the meeting.
Gerome: Sorry. ...What is it, Minerva? ...What?! This is bad. Minerva says she senses Risen nearby!
Lucina: Huh?!
Gerome: Just a few of them, but... Damn! I thought we got rid of them all!
Yarne: I guess peace is an ongoing project.
Inigo: We'll finish them off. These things take time.
Owain: And so the mighty heroes fought on, uncertain as to when their tale would end...
Brady: Hmph. Let the Risen come! We'll knock 'em into next week.
Nah: It has been a while since we've really flexed our muscles, hasn't it?
Kjelle: I know. I'm going to enjoy scattering these scoundrels.
Noire: I'm glad I brought my bow.
Laurent: Now hold on just a moment! You're not ALL marching out there, are you? It's just a handful of Risen.
Brady: Hey, ya never can be too sure!
Yarne: We shouldn't spare any resources when it comes to keeping the locals safe.
Gerome: Better too many of us than too few.
Inigo: Yes, Laurent. So stop complaining and get your equipment!
Laurent: What? I didn't volunteer! *Sigh* Oh, all right...
Owain: Look out, vile Risen! Chrom's New Shepherds are about to ruin your day!
Cynthia: Um, Lucina...
Lucina: What's wrong, Cynthia?
Cynthia: Do you think they'll be all right?
Severa: Against a handful of Risen? I think they can handle things. Come on. They haven't even been gone an hour. ...Or wait, let me guess. You want an excuse to try out your new battle cries?
Cynthia: Th-that is NOT TRUE. I'm just worried. That's all.
Lucina: It's all right, Cynthia. I understand. Go check on our friends. Consider that an order from your exalt.
Cynthia: You mean it? Thanks, Lucina!
Severa: You sure you should be sending one of your guards away?
Lucina: I still have you, Severa. And let's not forget I have myself. I've smashed apart my share of Risen.
Severa: Ha! If they think the exalt's an easy target, they're in for a nasty surprise. You don't even need pegasus knights, do you? Not really.
Lucina: Of course I need you. You're the source of my strength.
Severa: Mm-hmm.
Lucina: I mean it.
Severa: ...If you say so. Well, Cynthia's got her orders, so why don't you and I wait for her at the castle? I'll give you a ride. Let me just get saddled up, and I'll be right back.
Lucina: Thank you, Severa. ...... The sky is lovely today. Isn't it, Father? I cannot tell you how happy I am—how lucky I am to be safe with my friends. But I feel guilty too. Guilty knowing that you and Mother and so many others cannot share in this joy. If only this sword of mine would glow again, and bring the REAL you here to my side. ...It's a silly wish, isn't it? Even an exalt has her flights of fancy, I suppose...
Severa: Lucina! All ready!
Lucina: I'll be right there!
Chrom: ...... The sky IS lovely, Lucina. Just the sort of sky we fought to see again. But I am already at your side, my daughter. I always will be. Your sword may not flash, and you may not hear my voice. But all my friends are just a whisper away, watching over you. ...Isn't that right, Robin?
Robin: ...... ...Always.

(FIN)

If 1-3 children were defeated

Chrom: *Huff, huff* Is it over?
Grima: Nngh... Gyaaahhh... HOW?! This is not YOUR WORLD... YOU SHOULD NOT be able TO DRAW UPON this kind OF POWER! ...Just wait. I am NOT FINISHED with YOU YET. No matter HOW YOU STRUGGLE, I WILL see you DESROYED! ...Now DIEEEEEEE!
Chrom: ...Ahh! ...... Huh? Why isn't <he/she> attacking?
Grima: ...Run...Chrom...
Chrom: What?
Grima: ...You have to...get away from me...
Chrom: Wh-what are you talking about?
Grima: ...There's...no time... ..I don't want...to kill you... ...I can't bear...to watch you... ...die again...
Chrom: No. That voice... It can't be... Whoa! (Chrom and the others are warped away)
Lucina: Father? ...Father! Where did he go?
Grima: ...He's...safe...
Lucina: You mean...you're the one who...
Grima: ...Yes... I sent him back to his own world...before I could do him harm...
Lucina: But...Grima would never let the exalt leave here alive!
Grima: ...... ...No... He would not... ...Please...you must listen... ...I have been dealt a grievous blow... ...and must...sleep... ...That is your only chance... ...You must complete the Awakening... ...before my slumber ends...
Lucina: Why are you telling me this?
Grima: ...Because I must be destroyed... ...and you are the only hope of it...
Lucina: What? But...
Grima: ...I murdered your father... ...just as I murdered legions of Ylisseans... ...I snuffed out the very Voice of the divine dragon... ...and I just finished killing the friends you sent for the Gemstones...
Lucina: No...
Grima: ...Don't you hate me? ...I'm the cause of all of this... ...If it weren't for me, you would never have had to take up the sword... ...You and your loved ones would be living in peace... ...I am to blame for everything... ...You must destroy me, Lucina...
Lucina: You needn't tell me how much I hate you... I...LOATHE you... But... If you were really Grima, why would you seek your own demise? And why does your voice now seem so...so painfully familiar? You're a human, aren't you—a person, like us? Grima is using you to—
Grima: ...I am Grima! There is nothing human about me!
Lucina: ......
Grima: ...I have always been the fell dragon... ...since the day I was born... ...I wish that I were human! That I could have lived a normal life with you! ...But I'm not, and I can't...
Lucina: ...... Is there no way for me to... I mean... Can I save you if I defeat Grima?
Grima: ...No. As I said, Grima and I are one... ...I can speak my mind like this because we are weakened... ...but that does not mean my mind is free... ...Put aside your sympathy and finish me...
Lucina: There must be another way!
Grima: ...Why won't you listen to me? I— Nngh...
Lucina: What's happening?
Grima: CHILD OF NAGA... I will feast ON YOUR BONES before this is THROUGH...
Lucina: No...
Grima: ...Rrgh! *Huff, huff* ...You see? ...Grima is my true nature... ...We cannot be separated...
Lucina: ......
Grima: ...And now I must say farewell... ...Take care, Lucina... ...I look forward to the day that I die on your blade... ...May that day...come soon… (warps away)
Lucina: ...... As you wish, Grima. I will show you no mercy the next time we meet. I swear upon my life that I will defeat you once and for all. And then I will find a way to send you to whatever world you sent my father... Perhaps he can find a way to set the good part of you free...

(scene change)

Naga: Welcome home, warriors. Hm? The fell dragon returned you here... Is everything all right?
Chrom: Yes...though there were a few surprises in the end...
Naga: You have done well. Thanks to you, Grima will soon enter a brief sleep... All that remains is for Lucina's friends to deliver the rest of the Gemstones. Then she can use them and the Fire Emblem to restore light to the world. You have altered their destinies. I cannot thank you enough for helping me see this task through.
Chrom: But some of the children, they...they didn't make it. I failed them...
Naga: You must not punish yourself. They all would have died had you not intervened. Even if you had saved only one, that one life would have justified your journey. If anyone has failed, it is me. You and my other believers look to me for help, yet I am powerless to give it. All I can do is watch with regret...
Chrom: ......
Naga: ...But those are my troubles, not yours. Let us hope the other children reach Lucina soon so she can perform the Awakening. That will give her a chance of defeating the fell dragon once and for all. I believe their world will be saved.
Chrom: So do I. ...... Listen, about the fell dragon...
Naga: Yes?
Chrom: ...No, it's nothing. Never mind.
Naga: Perhaps it is best you not trouble yourself with Grima's secrets. If you are ready, I will send you back to the land whence you came. May the light you have brought their world soon fill yours as well...