Here we go again! To continue this story! I'm sorry that I wasn't able to write chapter soon. Because I got issues to fix and adjusting the new life at college.

Also, I have cleared the Birthright route, and now I'm playing the Conquest route, so that's good.

And on that note, This chapter will include TWO chapters from the game.

That said, let's go!

Disclsimer: I don't own Fire Emblem nor the three Persona games.

(In Krakensburg Castle, Nohr)

"Mwahahahaha...!" Garon laughed evilly as he sits on a throne. "So... Corrin still lives... And he knows. He knows a truth he should not. On top of that, he awakened to the powers of those foreigners...However, there is no need to worry. I've already set a plan in motion. He will be easily crushed, along with those who foolishly followed him. It's impossible for anyone to stop me now. This world is already mine... It just doesn't know it yet!" He gloated to...pretty much himself.

But little does he know, he was eavesdropped by Elise, who is listening from the doors of the throne room.

"Father...who could you be talking to? And why are you saying that Avatar is going to be crushed? I don't like this at all—I need to find Xander and that blue haired boy." She muttered. Just before she does so, Camilla appears in front of her.

"No, Elise. You shouldn't get involved." Camilla reasoned with her.

"Camilla?" Elise called out her name.

"There's something not right about Father. I sense something...not of this world..." The older sister said.

"But... If Corrin is in danger, shouldn't we help—" Elise said before she's interrupted by Camilla.

"No, we mustn't act hastily. One wrong step and we could cause him more trouble. As painful as it may be to do, we need to hold back and watch for now." Camilla said as she reluctantly admitted.

"All right, Camilla. If you think that's best..." Elise said as she conceded.

(In the Eternal Stairway, Hoshido)

"Why is this place called the "Eternal Stairway"?!" Yosuke complained as he was tired.

"Don't whine, Yosuke! You're making us tired too." Chie said as she too is tired. After being told by Azura that they need to go to a place called Izumo to seek help.

"How...long...until...we...reach the top?" Futaba asked as she's very tired. Justified as she hardly work out.

"I think...it won't be long...maybe." Corrin answered as he help both Futaba and Sakura walk through the stairway.

"Azura. You sure this is the fastest way to Izumo?" Yu asked.

"Yes. It's also to avoid further conflict from the Hoshidan Forces." Azura explained. "Izumo has declared neutrality and won't allow fighting of any kind on their land."

"I see...that's good to know." Ren said.

"Guys...is it me or since when this place starts foggy?" Ann asked as fog start appearing out of nowhere.

"You're right, Ann-senpai. Let's be careful around here." Naoto said as they all thread carefully. After walking few paces, a small group of Faceless suddenly appeared.

"Eeeeeek! It's the Faceless!" Sakura cried as the Phantom Thieves automatically change their clothes.

"I got this one!" Skull (Ryuji) said as he move forward, weapons ready.

"Save some for me, Ryuji-senpai!" Kanji said as he too move forward, with his weapon on.

"Skull, stop! They're not what they look like!" Oracle warned as she used the goggles to scan and discovered something wrong with the Faceless.

"You too, Kanji!" Rise said as she uses Kanzeon to check as well. But their pleas are ignored as the two lightning users hitting the flashes. Once they're done however, the Faceless turns back into people in unconcious state.

"The eff?! They're just people!" Skull exclaimed as he turns back to normal.

"That's what we're trying to tell you, you electrical knuckleheads!" Rise scolded Ryuji and Kanji.

"How are we supposed to know that?!" Kanji retorted.

"Oh no...they are Wind Tribe members!" Azura exclaimed.

"Wind Tribe?" Sae asked.

"They are a tribe that lives in the desert, the one that will surely pass through." Kaze explained.

"Oh geez. I can't believe you two mess it up." Teddie said.

"Shuddup!" Ryuji and Kanji said in unison.

"I think someone is using an illusion spell or something to make humans as Faceless so he can make us to attack them on purpose." Morgana said.

"Who could that be?" Corrin said. Little does they know, Iago is watching from afar.

"Let's see how you get out of this one." Iago said with a smirk before disappearing.

"This is not looking good. The Wind Tribe will surely be furious with us." Yusuke said.

"Let's just keep going. If we happened to meet them, I'll explained so they won't get a misunderstanding." Corrin said.

After walking a few steps and into the desert area, they arrived at a village. However, they immediately met an opposition... in the form of angry Wind Tribe tribalists.

"There they are! The two of them are the ones that attacked our friends!" One of the tribalist said.

"I won't deny that two of my companions fought your friends. I'm very sorry for that. But it wasn't their intention to fight them! We bear no ill will toward the Wind Tribe." Corrin tried to reasoned with them, but it seems he was ignored.

"Do you really expect us to believe that? You can't just beat people up and think that there will be no repercussions!" The other tribalist said.

"Tch, I guess they're too thickheaded to listen." Selena stated.

"I-I agreed. I have never see them so upset. We should go to Reppu Castle." Sakura said.

"Reppu Castle? Why there?" Ren asked.

"I've heard that the chieftain of the Wind Tribe resides there. If we are able to convince him to help us, he may be able to calm the others." Sakura answered.

"She's right, Lord Corrin. And fortunately for us, it looks like the winds have calmed themselves for the moment." Kaze said. " Normally the castle is protected behind powerful, biting gusts. Right now we may be able to reach it. However, there is no guarantee that the chieftain will listen, even if we make it. Do you still want to go?" He asked.

"Yes. We need to gather as many allies as possible, no matter how unlikely. The only way to make that happen is to build trust with others along the way. Let's go to Reppu Castle and speak with the chieftain." Corrin said as everyone proceeds towards the place.

After several minutes of walking, they stumbled upon a stern bald headed man in the front of the castle.

"So, you wish to speak with me?" The man asked.

"Yes, my name is Corrin." Corrin said before he turns to the others. "And these are my travelling companions."

"I assume that you're the chieftain of the Wind Tribe?" Ren asked.

"You are correct, foreigner. I am called Fuga." The man named Fuga said a he introduced himself. He then turns to Corrin. "News of your arrival got here ahead of you. And news of what you intend, too. You side with neither Nohr nor Hoshido but instead wish to destroy both kingdoms with your newfound "power". And you decided to begin with the Wind Tribe by attacking our brethren."

"No, of course not! Where are these ideas coming from? We aren't planning to destroy kingdoms. Our real goal, why we are seeking out allies, is to defeat the king of—" Corrin denied before he is interrupted.

"Corrin! Stop!" Azura said as she interrupts Corrin.

"Ah!" Corrin said as he realizes that he almost say the one thing he's not supposed to say.

"And I thought I talked too much." Ryuji commented before being told to "shush" by Ann.

"What was that? What are you trying to say?" Fuga asked.

"I'm sorry. What I mean to say is that our true enemy is one not yet known to everyone..." Corrin replied.

"An unknown enemy? Has fear of death driven you mad?" Fuga asked with a disbelieving look. "Don't think you can gain advantage by confusing me with your ramblings. Only a fool would accept your explanation, and I am no fool. Eliminate these invaders immediately!"

As on cue, many tribalists appear as they completely surround the group. After that, the PT (and Sae), Corrin, Azura, and the Awakening trio transforms to their battle attires.

"This is bad." Crow said.

"Agreed. This is but one of unfortunate events that we will come across." Odin added.

"Not helping, Odin." Selena reprimanded him.

"Is there no one who will believe us?" Corrin asked. His question is quickly answered by the arrival Corrin's ally. She's a dark brown woman who is muscular. She has white short hair as she wears an Oni mask on her head. Other than the fact she wears the Hoshidan variant of Nohr's Fighter Class, she wields a club.

"Chieftain! Please wait!" The woman said to Fuga.

"Damn! Now that's a badass lookin' chick." Skull complimented.

"Hey, it's Rinkah-chan!" Chie said.

"Do you know her?" Queen asked.

"Yeah, we met her when we rescued Princess Sakura and Princess Hinoka. She may be rough around the edges and a bit aloof, but she's actually really nice." Yosuke explained.

"A tsundere, huh? Interesting..." Oracle commented.

"Excuse me but, I may not know your... modern term of things, but what is this "tsundere"?" Laslow asked as he overhear Oracle's comment.

"It's a term for someone who is harsh on outside but really nice on the inside." Joker explained.

"I see...So they're like Selena then." The cassanova man said.

"Hey!" Selena said.

"Something like that." Joker said.

"Rinkah, what are you doing here!?" Corrin asked.

"I've been searching for you. Your departure has thrown both Nohr and Hoshido into chaos." She explained. "Rumors are spreading that you plan to attack and destroy both kingdoms with your new "power". But I know that's not the type of person you are—I believe in you!"

"Rinkah... Thank you for believing in me." Corrin said as he thanked the female Oni Savage warrior.

"Hmph... The Flame Chieftain's daughter now protects this dangerous man. Why?" Fuga said before asking.

"Because I owe him a debt. He saved my life." Rinkah answered with determination. "You can't kill him just because of a misunderstanding. And definitely not because of false rumors. I know that because Corrin is not the type to callously attack others. If my father was here, he would at least listen to what Corrin had to say. Only barbarians scream for death rather than justice!"

"Chick got a lot of fire in her words." Skull commented.

"That's because she IS from the Flame Tribe, Stupiji." Panther remarked.

"Don't call me that!" Skull retorted.

"Ho, I expected such fiery spirit! So you're saying I should believe in him? Despite all I've heard about his intentions." Fuga replied. "You should be careful—speaking without thinking about what you are saying."

"I have thought on it. On behalf of the Flame Tribe, I vouch for this man along with his followers." Rinkah replied back.

"Interesting... You really think that highly of him?" Fuga said as he fold his arms. He is thinking at the moment before he nods. "Very well! Then you shall have to prove your worth in the only way that matters." He said as he turns to Corrin. "Fight me, young Corrin! Fair and square! And show me the strength of your character! Defeat me with your own strength, without tricks or coward's tactics!"

"Well, my prince? It seems he has personally called you out. I'm afraid I cannot help you now that you are required to best him yourself. Are you ready?" Bahamut said telepathically in Corrin's head.

'I am. Don't worry.' Corrin said as he readies his sword.

"Then I wish you good luck." Bahamut said telepathically again.

"Looks like you're on your own, Corrin. Just when I was going to help too." Rinkah said to him. "I'll suppose we'll be cheering you on."

"Thank you. Having you here is enough." Corrin said.

"Kick his ass, Corrin!" Skull said as he cheers on Corrin.

"Show them your manhood!" Kanji added as he does a fist pump.

"You muscleheaded idiots..." Mona muttered as the duel is about to begin with the group and a small number of tribalists as spectators. As Corrin readies his stance, Fuga does the same.

"Now, come forth! I shall determine where the truth lies within you!" The Wind Tribe chieftain said as the battle begins. Both side give their all in this battle. With Corrin manages to keep up with Fuga without his Persona's help, while Fuga is too manage to keep up with the Nohrian Prince. Both side are not giving up anytime soon because how competent they are in this fight.

The group are very impressed about Corrin's battle prowess, as they noted why he is suited to lead them.

"Wow. It's good to know that all of that training in the Northern Fortress with Gunther are paying off." Felicia commented.

"Indeed. Though Lord Corrin has a long way to go, but I will believe that he'll catch up in no time." Jakob added.

After some time have passed, Corrin manages to defeat Fuga, albeit barely and luckily not fatal. After that, he puts away the Yato as he walk towards Fuga.

"Will you listen to us now? I am truly sorry that we attacked people form your tribe. We were deceived, and we came here to offer our apologies and an explanation." Corrin said as he apologizes, hoping that there won't be another pointless fight.

"I understand, Corrin. I could sense no ill intent in you as we fought." Fuga said as he nods. " You have a pure heart and a warrior's spirit. I promise to explain the situation to the rest of my tribe—you should not worry."

"Thank you, Chieftain Fuga." Corrin said as he sigh in relief.

"Hmm... you reminded me of Sumeragi." Fuga said. "He would rejoice at seeing you now. You would definitely make him proud."

"Hold on. you knew of father?" Corrin asked.

"Indeed I do." Fuga answered. "King Sumeragi was a dear friend. We often fought side by side in our younger days. We were like brothers in battle. Those days are long past now..." He said as he sheds a tear before continue talking. "You fought well today. I can see why you deserve to wield the Yato. And yes, I know of that blade. Sumeragi once spoke of it to me."

"What did he say?" Corrin asked as he and those who in their Metaverse attire back to their current attire.

"Listen carefully... The Yato is the key to the Seal of Flames. The Seal of Flames contains limitless power...It is said that it is a weapon capable even of destroying the gods that made it."

"You are saying that with this "Seal of Flames", he can destroy godlike entities... ?" Akechi asked.

"That is correct." Fuga said.

"The power to topple gods?! In that case..." Corrin said as he turns to Azura, who nods at him.

"Yes... We have a glimmer of hope now." The Songtress replied.

"Izana, from Izumo, should be more familiar with the legends." Fuga suggested. " I suggest you seek him out and ask about the Seal of Flames. Our tribe will also provide aid for your trip. I believe the best choice would be..." As he said that, a short boy in a Diviner's outfit appear to the chieftain's side.

"There is only one choice. I will accompany them." The boy said.

"Heh... he looks like that Persona User kid that sides with Nohr." Kanji muttered.

"You sure you're up for this?" Ryuji asked. "No offense or anythin', but you're kinda bit young to go on a dangerous trip like this."

"I'm not a child, I'm a grown man!" The boy- I mean young man said as he retorts.

"As childlike he may be, Hayato is one of our best diviners in the village." Fuga said.

"Yup, I'm quite talented if I say so myself." The young man said as he puffs up his chest in pride.

"I suppose you're okay at send him to help us?" Corrin asked.

"Of course. He will be a great asset on your quest." Fuga said as he turns to Hayato. "Just promise me you'll be careful."

"Of course." Hayato replied as he turns to Corrin. "You can depend on me now that I'll be seeing you for awhile."

"Yes. Welcome aboard." Corrin said as he turns to the group as well as the newly recruited Hayato. "Everyone, we're off to Izumo. We might be able to learn more about the Seal of Flames."

"Ah geez. More walking? When will we gonna rest?" Futaba whined.

"Don't worry, Futaba. We'll rest as soon as we arrive in Izumo." Azura said.

"If you say so..." The orange haired girl said.

"And thus, our perilous journey to defeat the ultimate enemy continues." Odin said dramatically... to no one in particular.

"Will you stop that!" Selena said as she bonk the Dark Mage in the head.

"Ow!"

As nighttime falls, the group have finally arrived in one of the neutral kingdom, Izumo. Fortunate for them, the guards allow them to enter, but not before warning them about starting a fight which Ren and Yu advise towards the delinquent in their team to not pick a fight.

"Intriguing. There's something... very divine about this place." Yusuke said.

"I agreed. It's also very calming too." Makoto added as they arrive at Izumo's central palace.

"Yes. Izumo has long been known as the "kingdom of the gods". It only makes sense that the center of its power would radiate peace. While all the other kingdoms quarrel, it maintains a neutral stance. I'm glad we made it here safely. Let's go find the archduke." Azura explained before they continue forward.

After walking a few steps, they see a long white haired man in white clothing with a marking on his head standing before them. He seems very happy.

"Greetings, travelers." The man said. "I am Archduke Izana." The man named Izana said as he introduce himself. "The first heir to the divine bloodline, descendant of the gods...keeper of prophecies, and winner of best hair... five or six times? I forgot. It's so nice to finally meet you! I imagine your journey here was quite difficult. Time to kick back and relax! Izumo is a wonderful place. You could stay here forever!"

"Is it just me or why he acts a lot like Teddie?" Chie commented.

"Oh. He could be one of those eccentric nobles I saw on TV." Yukiko said to her BF.

"Really?" Chie said to her friend.

"Oh. Did someone mention moi?" Teddie asked as he gets into the conversation.

"She said "like you", not you." Yukiko said.

"You don't have to put it like that, Yuki-chan." Teddie said as he kneels.

"Oh sorry. Was that mean of me?" Yukiko asked.

"Most of them are usually not like that. He's just...a special case." Sakura explained to duo.

"Pardon me, Archduke—we actually came here to ask you some questions." Corrin said to the Archduke.

"Oh? What about? Ask away, my friends! If you've got any good gossip to share, I'd be ever so pleased to listen!" Izana said as he is very curious.

"We were wondering if you could share what you know about the Seal of Flames." Corrin stated.

"Huh? The Seal of Flames? That sounds pretty boring to me... I don't bother remembering such dull things." Izana said as Ren senses something...strange about his statement.

'Something is off about this.' The Trickster thought as he watch the conversation between Corrin and Izana goes on.

"Are you sure you don't know anything about the Seal of Flames? The fate of the world may hang in the balance." Azura asked with a suspicious look.

"Grrr... I already told I never heard of it!" Izana said as Ren steps forward.

"Of course you don't know about it, you imposter." Ren said as the others were shocked about this.

"Ren-san." Yu said.

"Is that something you should say to someone like him?" Ryuji asked.

"Be quite, all of you." Morgana said to the group. "I think he's onto something."

"What? You're calling me an imposter? After I've prepared a feast for you all?" Izana said as he was felt being accused.

"This young man is right." Gunter said as he appears beside him. "You may have fooled everyone here with your magic illusion, but not me. Reveal yourself!"

"Ah! Gunter, you're no fun at all!" The imposter said as he reveals his true form, which in the form of a shady man in Nohrian mage attire.

"Whoa! He really is an imposter!" Ann said as she along with the others are surprised.

"Eeheehee! It's been a while, hasn't it?" The man said as he smirks. Soon after that, a troop of Nohrian soldiers appeared.

"Zola—I knew it was you behind that magic!" Gunter said as he sweatdrops.

"You know him, Gunter?" Corrin asked.

"Yes." Gunter answered. "This cretin is a Nohrian mage. He specializes in illusions and deception."

"Then... where's the real archduke!?" Corrin asked.

"I'm afraid it's off to jail for him—the clink, the slammer, the cooler!" The mage named Zola said as realizes something. "Oooh, cooler! That reminds me—it's time to make use of King Garon's ice bomb! Everyone, fire the ice bomb! ...Hehe, "fire" the "ice" bomb..." He then orders the troop to detonate the ice bomb as the former laughes at his own joke. Some of them (Corrin's group) changes to their Metaverse attire.

Once detonated, the entire palace area is covered in ice and snow along with the soldiers.

""Fire was the ice bomb"?" Yukiko repeated the joke as she once again have a laughing fit. "Hahahaha! "Fire" the "ice" bomb!? That is so hilarious, I can't stop! Hahahaha!" She said as she's still laughing.

"Umm... is this normal for her?" Skull asked as he is freaked out of Yukiko's "habit".

"You'll just have to get used to it. Trust me" Chie replied to him with a sweatdrop. Luckily, it doesn't take long as Yukiko stops laughing.

"It's incredible... They've done something to encase the entire town in ice. We'll have to break through. The enemy is probably using this ice as cover. Be careful!" Azura said.

"Also if we try to use fire to the ice, we may also burn the building as well which will not do good in our favor." Naoto said.

"Not to worry, everyone!" Teddie said as everyone look towards him. "I have captured all of their scents the moment they appeared. I can lead you where they are if you like."

"Plus..." Oracle said as she gets on Prometheus. "Me and Rise-chan can help Teddie on tracking them down and support you all at the same time."

"All right. Let's go!" Corrin said as everyone charges towards the area. Each of them breaks the ice before fighting the Nohrians one by one. Tough as the Nohrians may be, but they managed to best them with ease thanks to the supports of Rise and Oracle.

It's very long, but they manage to find Zola after they break the ice that covers him.

"Gah! How did you find me!?" Zola asked. "Or better yet, how did you all manage beat the guards?"

"There aren't so tough, you sneaky bastard." Kanji said.

"You know what they say, "united we stand"." Yu stated.

"Damn you...!" Zola gritted his teeth as he pulls out his tome. "Fine! I'll defeat you all myself! All of your strengths are just mere illusions!"

"We'll see about that!" Corrin said as he turns to Joker. "Lend me your strength, Re- I mean Joker."

"All right." Joker said as both of them touch their masks.

"Just touching those masks won't save you!" Zola said as he conjures up an dark energy before sending it towards Corrin and Joker. "Say you're prayers, fools!"

"That's what you think!" Both of them said.

"Arsene, Eigaon!" Joker shouted as he take off his mask, allowing Arsene to be manifested.

"What is that!?" Zola asked as the Persona conjures up red and black energy to counter Zola's spell. Arsene then vanishes. "Impossible!"

"It is possible, Zola! Bahamut, Agilao!" Corrin said as he summons Bahamut, who hits the Nohrian mage with a fireball before disappearing.

"Gack!" Zola said as he fall on his back before standing up.

"Had enough?" Skull asked as Oracle exits Prometheus before vanishing.

"Never!" Zola said as he run towards a path behind him, which leads towards the palace.

"Everyone, after him!" Kaze said as the group give chase towards him.

The chase eventually leds to Zola being cornered inside the palace, right in front of the banquet room.

"We've won. You can't escape now, Zola. Tell us where the archduke is!" Corrin said before demanding.

"HA! You really think it'd be that easy? What a naive little boy you are. I always have an escape plan!" Zola boasted.

"What-!?" Corrin said as he instantly grab a hold of Oracle.

"Ho! Look at me and my adorable hostage!" Zola taunted as he is standing behind the PT's navigator.

"Joker!"

"Oracle!" Ren said.

"What the hell, man!? Aren't you ashame doin' something as low as this!? Do the right goddamn thing!" Skull said angrily.

"Spare me your sermons, you vulgar ape. I rather win than doing the "right" thing! Why? Because only the winners get to write the history books!" Zola answered. "Now stand down or the girl—"

Before he finished his threat, a magic sigil appears beneath as he instantly get hits the moment a tree of sorts that appear out of nowhere.

"GYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA?!" The mage lets out a death cry as he falls down in floor, dead. This allow Oracle to be free and instantly go towards Joker.

"Are you okay?" Joker asked.

"More or less. I'm grateful that I didn't die." Oracle said.

"That's good to hear." Joker said as those who have their outfits change have turn back to normal.

"Why look at that, we've changed back!" Haru said.

"Yes, you're right." Selena said as she look towards Corrin, who for some reason, frozen in place. "Umm... Corrin?"

"That spell... It can't be..." He muttered as a familiar figure to Corrin appears... and it's none other than Leo, the second prince of Nohr.

"You were the lowest of the low, Zola... Hiding behind hostages—you are a disgrace to the entire Nohrian army." Leo said as he looks at Zola's corpse with distaste. Corrin rushes toward the Brynhildr user.

"I knew it! I knew it was you, Leo! Thank you for saving Ora-I mean Futaba." Corrin said. It may take some for Corrin to tell when the time to refer the PT in their codenames or civilian names.

Leo simply didn't respond as he glare towards the wielder of Yato.

"Leo... Will you join us? We could use your aid in the battle ahead. I don't plan to fight with ; I've learned of a dire truth..." Corrin said as he tries to persuade his adoptive brother.

"What are you talking about?" Leo asked genuinely.

"After I refused to side with or Nohr, I learned that King Garon... He is being manipulated by someone." The gray haired prince explained.

"What? How do you know this?" Leo asked again with skeptical look.

"Listen carefully. He didn't want to start a war with Hoshido. He's being controlled by our real enemy—someone hiding behind the scenes. This invisible foe is who we should really be after!" Corrin explained.

"I see." Leo simply said that. "Well then, tell me who is pulling the strings. Name the manipulator!"

"I'm sorry, Leo... I can't say who it is." The other Nohrian prince said as he refused to answer that particular question.

"Unsurprising. I don't know why I wasted time listening to your ramblings." Leo said as he turns to leave... but he notices a certain someone.

"Hello, Odin. I assume if you're on his side, that means you're a traitor to Nohr too?"

"It's... complicated, my lord." Odin said. "One that I cannot simply tell you on a whim... not yet at least."

"That's a shame. You were a promising retainer too." Leo said as he turns to the other Awakening trio. "And that goes to the both of you, correct?"

Laslow and Selena simply silence as they don't want to make the situation for them even worse.

"I rest my case." Leo said as he about to leave, but...

"Leo, please! Wait! I can't say anything now, but—" Corrin said before Leo interrupts him.

"You're a traitor. I don't want to hear your excuses." He said as he turns to Corrin.

"What? You still don't believe I have the best intentions?" Corrin asked.

"Let me make this as clear as I can... You have abandoned our family and have awakened to a power you know nothing about. I have extended you the same courtesy." Leo stated. "I no longer think of you as my brother. Got it? I only came here to clean up that pathetic excuse of a mage. You and I will settle our differences some other time."

As he said that, he attacks Corrin... however he actually attack the banquet door behind the latter.

"Corrin!" Azura said as he rushed towards to see if he's injured, luckily there isn't.

"Don't worry, Azura, I'm fine. I don't think he was aiming at me. The door to that banquet hall has seen better days, though..." Corrin said as he look towards the destroyed door.

"No kiddin', he broke the door as if it was nothing." Ryuji said as Leo turns to the Phantom Thieves.

"Who are you supposed to be? I never seen you people before." Leo asked them.

"We are the Phantom Thieves. And we believe that what Corrin do is right." Ren said on behalf of the entire PT.

"So you're all thieves, hm?" Leo asked as he stare towards them. "Funny you don't like it, but one shouldn't judge a person by their appearance."

"We get that a lot recently." Ren said.

"You could have join Nohr, but I guess you're willing to side with a traitor. How pity." Leo said as he turns to Corrin. "And on that note, traitor, the real archduke should be inside. Along with the pathetic Hoshidan prince, ."

"What? Do you mean—" Before he gets the answer, Leo have already left.

"Wait! Leo! ...Leo..."

"Lord Corrin! The banquet is filled with people!" Kaze said as she look inside of it. "They've all been tied up!"

"You can't be serious!" Corrin said as everyone went inside the hall and begin to untie the prisoners.

"You're here! You're here! You've finally come to rescue me! Thank you so much! You really saved my life! I'm absolutely starving! My tummy has been rumbling for hours now!" The real Izana said as Ren sets him free. It was take some for everyone to set the prisoners free.

"Are you the real Archduke Izana?" Yu asked.

"Why yes! That's me! Archduke Izana. The first heir to the divine bloodline, descen—" Izana said before he is interrupted.

"Sorry, Archduke, but we've kind of already heard this..." Corrin said.

"Even the hair part...?" Izana asked.

"... Yes." Most of the group including Corrin reluctantly said.

"Awww..."

"H-he is even more informal than the imposter..." Sakura said as the archduke turns to her.

"Ah! The fair Princess Sakura! I believe your brother is around here somewhere. He was left in a situation similar to my own. I can only imagine how hungry he is now..." Izana said.

"Takumi really is here?" Sakura asked.

"I found him!" Ann said as she pointed her finger to Takumi, who is recently being set free by the latter.

"That damn Nohrians... launch a sneak attack on me when I-" Takumi muttered before he is interrupted.

"Takumi! I'm so glad you're safe!" Sakura greeted him as he notice her.

"Sakura? And... Corrin and Azura. What are you all doing here?" Takumi asked before he notices a certain blonde headed delinquent. "Oh it's you. The delinquent I bumped into a few days ago."

"Still has that shitty behavior, I see." Ryuji said, though he feel offended, but he decided to let that be the past. "But still, glad you're okay though."

"How unusual for you behave properly." Takumi said as he turns to Sakura again. "Well, Sakura? Why are you doing with Corrin and Azura?"

"Well...I decided that I would fight alongside Corrin." Sakura answered.

"What? Sakura, you've turned against Hoshido as well? is going to be devastated..." Takumi remarked.

"No, I h-haven't! Neither has Corrin. No one here has, actually." Sakura said. "None of us plan to fight against Hoshido. Corrin says there is something much worse than Nohr's aggression going on. He can't explain, but I trust him. Takumi, p-please—trust him too!"

Takumi is silent as he processes the information he received.

"Takumi..." Corrin called out his name as the second prince of Hoshido glares toward him.

"Hmph... You'll have to excuse me if I don't find this flimsy explanation acceptable. Sakura may believe in your story—I don't." Takumi said.

"I see..." Corrin said as he frowned.

"Looks like someone a very stubborn for his own good." Ren said.

"Nonononono! Ahhh, this won't do! This won't do at all! You've got it all wrong, Prince Takumi!" Izana said as he butts in the conversation.

"What are you talking about?" The Fuujin Yumi wielder asked.

"I'm not going to go into all the little details, but basically—join Corrin." Izana answered. "That's what the gods are telling me! Just got some prophetic stuff from them!"

"That's... unusual." Ryuji said.

"Huh? Something prophetic?! I can't believe that important prophecies just...happen all of a sudden like that." Takumi said with disbelief look.

"Hey, who's the keeper of prophecies here, you or me? They come as they come. Would you really ignore directions sent down from the gods?" Izana replied.

"You know, you say that, but... How can I choose to side someone who won't side with his homeland? Of course I'm grateful they saved us, but... I just can't trust Corrin." Takumi said, still stubborn as ever.

"Jeez, you're one tough nut to crack. What am I supposed to do with you?" Izana said as coughs a little. "I don't like breaking out the big bows, but if a little extra prophesizing is needed... Well, Prince Takumi, that's just what you'll get!"

Izana then immediately pulls out a crystal ball as he starts channeling with it.

"*ahem* "Everything is not yet seen... The truth is far and hidden low. The one upon the water's surface, he who knows all is the true foe..."." Izana said as he done chaneling. "Whew. There ya go. The gods really want to speak to you, Prince Takumi. Prince Corrin is not your enemy."

"Then who is? What was Sakura saying a moment ago... That Corrin knows something about our supposed enemy?" Takumi asked.

"Yes. I can't explain it all now, but what Archduke Izana says is true. We came to Izumo hoping to find a way to defeat our mystery enemy." Corrin stated.

"Oh, that's right. You were going to ask me about the Seal of Flames. I'm sorry, but I don't know a thing about it." Izana explained as this shocks the group.

"How did you know that we're going to ask that?" Makoto asked.

"Premonitions! Prophecies! Haven't you been paying attention?" Izana said. "Even though I can't help you with the Seal of Flames... My family does have a saying that's been passed down for generations. "We will show he who shuns the light and dark another way." So, there you have it!"

"Hmm... does that mean Corrin the one who shuns both the light and dark?" Ren asked.

"I think it's quite a coincidence since he refused to allied with Hoshido nor Nohr." Yu said.

"That's probably it." Izana said. "Thus, I need to show you a new path. If you'll excuse me, I'll go hold a little ceremony and ask an ancient god for help."

"Right now?" Akechi asked.

"Yep! Fortune favors the bold! Strike while the iron's hot! Carpe whatever!" Izana answered. "I want to get this little ceremony over with, in any case. Ancient gods aren't exactly easy on the eyes."

As he said that, he immediately leaves them.

"I hope this turns out okay." Chie said.

"Yeah, I'm getting antsy just thinkin' about it." Ryuji said.

"I'm sure things will work in our favor. Let's have faith and wait here for him." Corrin said as they decided to wait for Izana.

After thirty minutes have passed, Izana comes back... who is looking pale than usual.

"S-sorry to have...kept you waiting." Izana said as he looked quite exhausted.

"Archduke, what's wrong?! You look exhausted!" Corrin said as he just as surprised as everyone.

"I had a chat...with an ancient god... But even I don't understand it" Izana said as he is breathing heavily. "... It's so short, too... "Go meet the dragon." I believe that's what he said."

"The dragon?" Corrin asked.

"I'm sure you'll figure it out eventually..." Izana said as he's getting paler and paler by the minute. "I really really hope you do, too. After all, I think I may—owww ow ow... Yup, definitely gave my life for the message."

He then collapse on the floor. Corrin is seen holding him.

"Dude! You're dying!? How could something like this happened?" Yosuke asked.

"I think this is a case of "an eye for an eye" or in this case, "a life for life"." Naoto theorized.

"The blue haired maiden here is right. The ceremony I performed always requires something in return. Every message has a price, and the cost of this one was my life. I'd really like it if a bard wrote a nice song about my noble sacrifice..." Izana explained as he turns to Takumi one last time. "Oh, Prince Takumi...I know I asked before, but... Make sure you help out Corrin, OK?"

"But... I..." Takumi said as he still unsure.

"What, you're still not willing?" Izana asked. "I'm dying here, and you're still unsure? Listen, if you don't...I'll come back as a ghost and haunt you. All the time. Boo."

"Hmm... let's hope he doesn't come back as a ghost." Chie said. "It'll give me nightmares."

"Or doesn't come back as a zombie or sorts." Yu said.

"Archduke..." Takumi said.

"Well, I said what I needed to say... Bye...bye..." Izana said as he close his eyes and went limp, proving that he have passed away.

"Why didn't he tell us this would cost him his life? Why..." Corrin said as everyone is mourning towards Izana. The boys look away as a few girls cried particularly Makoto, who got comforted by her sister and Yu comforting Rise as well as Ren comforting Futaba.

"*sniffle...sniffle...* Oh, Izana..." Sakura said as she sobbed.

"Giving up his life for the good of everyone. He was an admirable man." Gunter said.

"I'm so sorry... This is all my fault. If I hadn't , the archduke wouldn't have died like this..." Corrin said. "I didn't realize the cost of my goal, as right as I believe it to be..."

Takumi put his hand on Corrin's shoulder as the latter look towards him.

"Takumi...?" Corrin asked.

"You must keep believing it, Corrin. Don't waste his sacrifice." Takumi said as he too saddened by this turn of events.

"Takumi..." Corrin said.

"Listen. I'm going to help you accomplish your mission. I'll fight with you." Takumi said as he decided to join. "After all, it was the archduke's dying wish. So. I'm coming along... Brother."

"Thank you, Takumi." Corrin said.

"If any rate, I think we should give this honorable soul a proper burial." Odin said as the group takes part in the burial ceremony along with the residents of Izumo. After that they decided to stay Izumo for the night.

(The next day)

Despite the fact the recent passing of Izana still on their minds, the group decided to move forward and never look back, know that they don't have much time.

"Well everyone. Let's continue our journey now." Ren said.

"Yes. we can't stay here for too long." Corrin said.

"Well, if Lord Takumi is going, I guess we'll have to go too!" A brown haired young man said as he appears to Takumi's side. Along with a blue haired young woman. Apparently they were present in the burial ceremony sitting beside Takumi.

"Yup! I'd sooner die than be separated from Lord Takumi." The young woman added.

"I know you two are at the burial ceremony, but who are you?" Corrin asked.

"The name's Hinata! I'm one of Lord Takumi's retainers." The young man named Hinata said as he introduces himself. "I'm skilled with a katana—if I do say so myself. You'll like having me in a fight!"

"My name is Oboro. Like Hinata, I am a retainer to Lord Takumi." The young woman named Oboro said as she introduces herself. "If at all possible, I'd rather not interact with the Nohrians. But if we are to be allies, then I will do my best to cooperate... For Lord Takumi's sake." For some reason, she has quite a "death glare" when it has something to do with Nohrians or Nohr in general.

"Whoa. That's actually kinda scary." Ryuji said.

"I don't think I can forget that face anytime soon too." Yosuke added.

"All right... We're glad to have you with us." Corrin replied to them. "That's three more valuable allies... Thank you, Archduke Izana. This is all thanks to you. I promise to never forget the sacrifice you made for us."

After he said that, the group- or should I say Corrin's army as they leave Izumo and go towards another destination...

I think that's a wrap about this chapter, I hope you enjoy it!

I'm sure you already know about this, but Joker from Persona 5 is in Smash Ultimate as a DLC Fighter! Now he gets to meet Corrin for real, so excited! And it's revealed right at the end of Game Awards, so it's literally a "Last Surprise".

With Joker's inclusion, I'm pretty that anything can happen at this point.

Review this and have wonderful day/night!