Author's note: Look up the Fates credits theme - Bubbles. Beautiful piece that is perfect for listening while reading along.

Review Time:

SuperNova23 - Thank you, dynamic scenes have been my bane. I hope I got better at them overall.

Raihan Sayuko - :)

RealCoolDude - I am glad someone mentioned this. I was sort of rushing things along in this final stretch, wanting to make it satisfying and memorable but not to cause anymore bloat. I appreciate the honesty.

Cyberchao X - You think I'd disappoint Shigure fans? ;)

quandani939 - lol

soulcage - Ah, you'll be seeing more of the Azura/Anna ship. It's a bit slow burn on that front, but I'm glad on how that particular ship came out. And it wasn't even based on anything! Just a whim I had in the second chapter.

Epilogue - A Girl Named Anna

"So you actually saw her? How long were you out?"

Anna was telling a story to a group of children, about what transpired after Anankos's defeat. These children came from different backgrounds: some were royalty, one was half-Wolkskin, another half-Kitsune, while four had the blood of an element. The oldest of them was a blue-haired boy with golden eyes, who seemed to be the most invested.

"Not that long, because Izana's staff revived me! Corrin and Anankos shared their final worlds, and with a little dose of dragon magic, the world could be put back together. Wasn't done overnight though, this took a while!"

"Wow…."

"Lilith really had to pinch in to fix everything. Took a lot of her powers to do so, but she didn't mind. She was just happy to have Corrin, her brother."

"Then what happened?"

The continent was restored - Hoshido on the right, and Nohr on the left. As for the Bottomless Canyon….it was filled up. Valla was no more. Eventually the army had to disband. Soldiers returned home, as did civilians. Some had to bury their loved ones.

That someone was not Mozu, fortunately for her. She was back in her village, packing her things. Matsuko lingered in the doorway.

"Ah, Mozume….yer really leaving me again?"

"Oh, Mother….we talked about this! I'm moving up in the world. First stop's Shirasagi, then I have to head to Dia. For our business to take off, it needs my help! But I'll always write to ya, and visit often!"

Mozu wasn't a simple farmgirl anymore. She was an experienced young lady on the cusp of adulthood. And as much as it pained her dear old mother to see her ago, she was proud of her all the same.

"Mozu, dear….c'mon. I want to hold you."

"Mother….okay!" She giggled and embraced her. "Can I tell ya something? I….I kinda fancy a soldier. Now I'm not saying I'll be his bride or nuthin' but….maybe it'd be worth it to see where it goes…."

"Hahahaha…..focus on the work first, darlin'!"

Soon Mozu was about to leave. Everyone in her village wished her well, including the elder. They had done so much for her, and she wanted to repay the favor. She would always support them and keep them in her thoughts.

"G'bye all! I'll be back next winter!"

"Bye Mozume!" everyone waved at her. For a brief second, Mozu looked up into the bright blue sky. Not a cloud to be seen, but she could swear she saw her father's beaming face.

When she arrived in the capital, all seemed well. The plaza had been fixed a ways back, and the people of Hoshido seemed happier than ever. They had a new king, and a new relationship to their western neighbor.

"Ah, Mozu, right this way!"

There was Reina. She was still a proud and noble soldier of the Hoshidan army, but now she had promoted to General….to take up the reigns of her late mentor, Tokagawa. She briefly took a break to handle her father's estate in his passing, but her mother insisted she return service to the country she loved.

"General Reina…"

"Oh you don't have to call me that, Mozu. How's Matsuko?"

"Doin' well, ma'am. How are things on the battlefield?"

"Well, these rookies don't hold a candle to you…..hey, maybe you can show them pointers!" Reina's enthusiasm for battle was as present as ever, but the first thing she would teach was self-preservation. She would never forget her battles with Gunter.

"I-I think I should see Lord Ryoma….."

"He's just inside!" Orochi chimed in. "How are you doing, Mozu dear?"

"Great, Miss Orochi! You look radiant yourself!"

"Hahaha….well, these looks aren't just for show, if you catch my drift….I found a nice gentleman. He's currently away, but he'll be back!"

Mozu thanked the both of them and entered the palace.

XXXXX

Ryoma transitioned into his father's - and stepmother's - role quite nicely. The people respected him, and only he could face the challenge of ruling the country. Hoshido's neighbors were still the Fire and Wind Tribes, but both Kumagera and Fuga acknowledged Ryoma's ascent.

"Ah, Mozu. You're just in time. Are you ready?"

"R-Ready as I'll ever be, sire! I hope you're not mad I'm leaving the country…"

But the samurai king only chuckled. "I know Hoshido will always be your home. But the young must travel, to really hone their experiences. Best of luck with Anna out there."

Mozu bowed, and just in respect. Ryoma stepped down from the throne, and held Raijinto over her head. King or not, he never neglected his training.
"Mozume….I, King Ryoma of Hoshido, under the Dawn Dragon's gaze, formally knight you! Rise up."

She did. "T-Thank you so much!"

"Stay there for a minute. There's something I think you should have."

Yukimura stepped forward at his king's gesture. He had felt guilty, assuming his duties after what happened, but Ryoma, Hinoka, Takumi, and Sakura all insisted the job was always for him. Someone to guide the king. He guided Sumeragi, and he would do the same to Ryoma, and even to Ryoma's own son. There was rumors the king was courting a certain half-Hoshidan wyvern rider…
The tactician placed a necklace around Mozu's neck. At the end of the chain was a small locket engraved with the Hoshidan insignia.

"You are more than a business owner, Mozu. You shall be an ambassador to Hoshido itself."

She moved the locket around her fingers. It wasn't something she normally wore, but just the sight….was enough to give her such joy. "Thank you….Lord Ryoma….I'd thank your siblings too but I'm in a bit of a hurry."

"Of course. Your escorts will arrive shortly."

"Shiro, that was your daddy!" one of the little tykes shouted. The boy addressed was Ryoma's own son, although he had the blonde hair of his mother - Scarlet, the Queen of Hoshido.

"Yep. Shame you weren't a little lobster junior, but hey, genetics are a funny thing."

"Miss Anna?" Shiro's cousin Kiragi spoke next. Ironically he had blonde hair too, from his mother Elise. "Whatever happened to Izana? Did he die?"

"Uh, no. What the heck made you think that?"

"Cuz of Death!"

"No, NO…."

"Did Zora die?" asked Midori, the half-oni daughter of Kaze. She was a curious little thing, but she still struggled to pronounce certain words.

"No, okay look…."

But more existed on the right side of the continent. The land of Izumo was still the small, quiet nation it always was, although it too had faced some hard times as well. Through Izana and Anna, the country became much more involved in trade.

War was but a bitter memory now. The soldiers made sure to lock away the Bifrost staff so the next Archduke could take it. At least the populace could enjoy their leader's parties once more, barring a few changes. The first was a monument created at the base of Izana's castle, to honor all that had fallen. He had it made specifically so he could see it every morning when he gazed out the window.

As for the second…

"Mmmm, Lord Zola, you're so tense…."

"Are you feeling well~?"

…Zola could only giggle nervously at the doting, beautiful, busty women massaging his body all around. After the war, he decided to leave Nohr for greater prospects, and Izana invited him to become another advisor. And finally, he didn't have to cheat or lie to get attention….many knew of his heroic exploits.

"Tell us again…..how you deceived that foul sorcerer Iago…."

"L-Ladies, please! N-No need to get too excited, right sire?"

Izana was relaxing next to him. "Nah. Today's a beautiful day! Look at how blue the sky is!"

"Yeah….."

"Say, Zola. Do you ever miss your country?"

"Milord, please….this is my country."

"Ah, but you were born and raised in Nohr, were you not?" Izana popped on his sunglasses. "In a way, it's always a part of you who you are. It molded you."

"You're….right…..s-say, do you miss traveling with Anna?"

"Of course I do," said the Archduke. "Anna's still my best friend, thick and thin! But sometimes you just gotta put the needs of your country first, right? Now why don't we get started on some combat training!"

"Yes sir…."

The third change? Making the youth of Izumo stronger fighters. After their invasion, it was unanimously decided the standards of the army had to be raised. Peace was earned, after all.

"I'd….like to know more about Mama's travels, please….."

Mozu's son was a shy and meek child. He had his father's gentle spirit, although everything from the darkness to monsters under his bed scared him.

"Sorry Iggy."

Soon Mozu reached the checkpoint, where she would join a local caravan that was heading west. She sat on the back of the horse's wagon, watching the road go by. No scattered islands, no flying soldiers….it was all in one piece, as it should be. But where was her escort?

"Yo, Mozu." The fiery princess of the Fire Tribe sat down next to her. "Taking the scenic route instead of flying?"

"Miss Rinkah….it's easy on the eyes, you know? Mister Kaze? You can come out now."

The verdant ninja appeared on the tree above and landed on the other side of her. "You've gotten better at spotting me. I don't know whether to be pleased or ashamed…."

"Hehehe….so, how goes everything?"

Rinkah leaned back. "The tribe's back to their normal routine, but now they're willing to go out and interact with the Hoshidans. My father's still itching for a rematch against Kilma, though. Me? I'm just taking it one day at a time."
True to her word, Rinkah made the decision to leave the tribe and be independent. She would always have her pride, though.

"I'm doing well myself. Just helping the people in anyway I can." Kaze smiled. "It's so soothing to hear the birds chirping, wouldn't you say?"

"Yeah….hey, didn't your brother get back together with Miss Kagero?"

"Yes. I am happy for the both of them. Mozu, what about you? Are you leaving home to be a part of the new business in Dia?"

"Sure am! It's time I make my mark on this world."

"But you already have," Rinkah pointed out. "You saved the darn world, like the rest of us."

"Aw, Miss Rinkah, I'd rather be known for something else besides war. My father always said there's someone worse off you can help. And I want to do just that. Here, Mokushu, Nohr….in the end, we're all just people on the same rock, y'know?"

"Mm."

"Excellently put."

While the three were headed west, to the south was Mokushu, which had been affected hard by the war. The truth of their Daimyo's crimes against Kouga was known far and wide. Many felt shame and regret. Others wanted reparations.

But for the last Kougan, the choice was clear.

"They've suffered enough. You just need to make sure someone like Kotaro NEVER comes into power again. Tear down his statues. Burn his possessions."

They even asked if he wanted it.

"Are you nuts? I'm not cut out to be a leader of a country. And it wouldn't bring my countrymen back. Kouga is gone, and that's that. Besides, I've got a lot to atone for myself."

That was the last thing the Mokushujins heard from Shura before he left, never to return. But Ryoma still ordered parts of the Hoshidan army to maintain order and help with reconstruction until Mokushu was declared stable again. The new Daimyo would have to get approval from the other countries, in addition to signing a non-aggression treaty with their northern neighbor.

"Thank you for helping with the repairs!"

Saizo nodded cordially in the young man's direction. He and Kagero were still Ryoma's loyal retainers, and now they learned how to properly work together.

"Saizo!" Kagero landed next to him. "Come. We have to clear out some brigands near the coastline."

"Understood."

The two ninja ran at the same pace, but the curious onlooker could now see that they were holding each other's hand lovingly. It seemed ridiculous for a ninja to do so, but both had learned their duty was not the only thing in their lives.

"What? Papa HOLDING Mama's hand?"

"I know, Asugi, I can't believe it either. Saizo was always McAngry Grumpypants when I met him. But hey, finding the woman of your dreams does that to you."

The sixth Saizo pouted. Fortunately, he was still too young for ninja training, but that didn't mean Saizo and Kagero weren't eager for the day to come. Even as parents, their loyalty to Ryoma remained.

Nestra had the advantage of not losing any of their own leaders, but it still needed some recovery as well. Fortunately, they no longer had reason to fear their Nohrian neighbors. The king enjoyed the shows at the Opera House regularly.

"King Leviathan, you wanted to see me?" Layla entered their throne room not out of anxiety, but genuine curiosity. It had been a while since she performed herself.

"Yes. The Queen and I have decided….we have not made proper amends for what we did to you. And seeing as how our sons will not return to the court….perhaps you'd like to be our Lady-In-Waiting?"

"Oh….I am honored, but….I must decline."

"Decline…?" Luanne asked.

"Yes. I have declined to travel the world a bit, see the sights. A friend of mine invited to see the Kitsune Hamlet, and I'm excited for that." Layla smiled.

"But….your mother!"

"Oh, she'll be with me. She knows she doesn't have too much time left, but she refuses to die at home. Besides, she wants to see Kaden's home too."

XXXXX

Said kitsune grinned when he spotted her exiting the castle. Layla's mother was well enough to stand and walk, and she wanted to take advantage of it.

"Layla! What'd they want?"

"Oh, something silly," she giggled and hugged him. "Shall we be off?"

"Whee! Mommy and Daddy! Did you ever meet Grandma, Anna?"

"Once or twice. That sweet old woman got to live another three years!"

"Hey, why does Selkie to get to hear about her mama and papa and not me?"

"That's ANOTHER story. Look kids, I can't talk about whose mommy met whose daddy, mostly because we'd be here all day and I'd have to cut out the good stuff. Just listen!"

"Lord Xander! I have those reports you asked for."

"Ah, come in."

Nyx stepped into her liege's private quarters. She honored her agreement to replace Iago after the war, and now served as the king's most trusted vassal. She, sadly, was still cursed and would forever be, but she bared a smile more days than not.
Not only did she have friends, she had reconnected with her family.

"Working hard is no good for your health, my liege. Shall I get Lady Camilla?"

"There's no need for that, Nyx. What do you have for me?"

"Ahem….Nohrian troops have officially withdrawn from Ice Tribe soil. Kilma is still Chief."

"Excellent. And the harvest?"

"Take a look at these numbers…."

Xander had his work cut out for him. With Hoshido's trade and the demise of Hydra, there was hope the populace could have more sustenance. Another challenge was assuaging the people's fear, after the monster had terrorized the country for years. Every other week people were paranoid a slime monster was in his skin.

Gunter's death was honored by a proper funeral, and monument was erected in the center of Windmire to honor the fallen. But another loss was sadly, Daniela. Wyverns and pegasi scouted the island, only to find Faceless and Stoneborn remains. The valkyrie had seemingly vanished.
Following that, Xander declared the country would never use such monsters anymore. The remaining ones were found and destroyed by the Opacare. As for the rest of the army….

XXXXX

"COME ON, YOU WEAKLINGS, I'VE SEEN STRONGER PEOPLE AT THE NURSING HOME!"

"Y-YES, MA'AM! SORRY MA'AM!"

Promotions were had all around. Both Charlotte and Benny left the mundane job as border guard, serving a nice set of Captains to train new recruits. The former would terrify rookies with her raw strength and voice (they often made the mistake of calling her a cutie), and the latter would provide positive feedback.

"Don't use that sword, greenhorn. It's too heavy. Use this one instead."

"T-Thank you, Sir Benny!"

Additionally, Keaton joined the army himself…..the first Wolfskin to do so. Some have deduced he only did out of a combination of boredom, wanting to hang out with his friends, and free trash to collect, but he would always deny it everytime.

"My tail is NOT wagging because of….look, just do your drills!"

Zhara was asked to command as well. At first he refused, but came to realize a mercenary's life was no life for the greatest swordhand in Nohr. That and the fact that Camilla offered so much gold for his band, they practically ran to the enlistment offices.

"Mother and Father…." Xander's son, Siegbert, seemed happy to hear about them. He bared a remarkable resemblance to his father, although his hair color was his mother, Charlotte's.

"Can we hear more about Daddy?" asked a girl whose tail started to wag. Her hair color was the same gray save for a black strand in the middle, from her sorcerer mother.

"After this story, sheesh!"

"Mama! I want to know what happened to Mama!" a child with long red hair - named Caeldori - exclaimed.

Anna sighed. "Fine, I guess we can't ignore that part anymore. But ONLY because it's important to the story!"

Eventually, the way back to Ylisse was achieved. But to end it all on a positive note, what Lilith did with her remaining power was special. She created a portal that would forever link the two worlds, so all could see proof of what truly happened. Severa, Owain, and Inigo insisted that was too much, but the half-dragon was determined to make up for her father's actions.

"When he enlisted you, he forever caused our fates to intersect."

"But you won't have anymore power after this! You'll just be….normal…."

"I don't care. Consider it my gift for this world taking you away from your loved ones."

So the Shepherds returned to Ylisstol one day. It wasn't something Ylisse would predict or expect….once Robin and Cordelia informed the others, it was a waiting game to see when they would return. But they did, and Lucina raced to find her father.

"L-Lucina…."

"Father!" She cried and held him tightly. "We're home! WE'RE ALL HOME!"

It was cause for celebration. Chrom wasted no time in contacting the remaining Shepherds, and within three days all of them showed up in the capital. Tiki and Say'ri stopped by to see them as well. Naga's daughter was curious to know more about the dark presence involved in their departure. But now….all the present day Shepherds were born.

First, it was Henry and Nowi:

"Nahahaha! Welcome back, kiddo!"

"Nah, you're back! Didja get me a cool souvenir? Or least a chew toy for the other you?"

Then, Panne and Stahl:

"Yarne! I'm so glad to see you're alright!"

"Foolish boy…doing it without telling your mother….but you saved your friends. The Taguel would be proud!"

Then, Tharja and Gaius:

"Fufufufu…you're in one piece, Noire….like they'd ever hurt you…."

"Good to see you safe. Why…why are you shaking like that? You never saw a baby before?"

Frederick and Cherche:

"Welcome back."

"Oh, welcome back! Gerome, look, it's you! Your own baby brother...there's enough Minerva for the both of you!"

Sully and Kellam:

"Hey! About time you showed up. I dunno whether to hug you or sock you for not telling me where you were going!"

"Kjelle….oh, I'm so happy to see you….a-am I crying?"

Vaike and Miriel:

"Another adventure, eh champ?"

"Please, Vaike. Laurent, you must inform me of the discoveries you made in this other world….and I suppose you can share lodgings with the current day you…."

Chrom and Sumia:

"You were brave and noble, Cynthia, aiding your sister."

"Oh….I'm going to cry….all of my girls, finally home…."

When it came time for the three missing children….the scene had taken a more somber turn. Their parents couldn't just casually greet them. They had been gone for so long. First up was Owain, who had to face Lissa crying and practically choking him with a bear hug.

"M-Mother…I can't breathe…."

"Owain! I missed you so much! Your poses, your names….I thought….I thought I'd never see you again! Oh, the baby only made it worse! I just wanted you home!"

"I'm sorry….F-Father, do you feel the same way?"

Lon'qu glared at him. "I'm trying to resist my anger, Owain. Only a fool would do something like that." But he patted his shoulder. "You at least came back home."

Next up was Inigo. Immediately he was painfully slapped by Olivia.

"M-Mother….that hurt…."

"No! What hurt was leaving your dear mother and father with just a NOTE! Do you know how much I cried, Inigo? You're too nice for your own good. Next time you do something like this, I'm….I'm….going to ground you!"

"Understood…." He looked to his father.

"Ah, Inigo." Virion smiled. "You're just like your dear dad, yes? Getting the women all relied up at you. Hug your mother, she's started to cry again. Such a terrible sight to see someone so beautiful so sad!"

"S-Stop i-it, V-Virion….I-I'm…n-not….c-crying…." Olivia sobbed into her elder son's shirt.

Finally it was Severa. Cordelia practically bawled and crushed her with a hug.

"Mother stop….you're embarrassing me….!"

"Oh, THERE'S the Severa I know! I just wanted you back so bad! You've gotten taller…ohhhhh! I love you, I love you so much!"

"I….love you too…." She admitted through red cheeks. Her eyes widened when she spotted her father holding her present self in his arms. "Is that….m-me…?"

"No. Is not you, is other you. You are Daddy's girl, she is Daddy's baby," said Gregor sagely. "Gregor wants Severa to be big sister to her other self! Gregor would hug you, but other you is sleeping, yes?"

"Oh Daddy….." Severa sniffled. "I missed you both so much….."

XXXXX

It was dusk when the party finally ended. At Tiki's advice, Chrom called the three into his chambers alone, in order to discuss the elephant in the kingdom. All of them feared his retribution - he was still their Exalt, after all.

"Can you three relax? I'm not going to send you to the dungeons."

"But Uncle! We betrayed the halidom!"

Chrom sighed. "You didn't betray anyone, Owain. You did what you thought was right and noble. How can I condemn you for that? But you say a Lilith brought you here….and there's still the light in the courtyard. Does this mean that world is linked to our own?"

"Uh huh. The reason why it's been taking a while is because….we were helping with recovery. They had another war," Severa explained. "We….pledged ourselves to others…."

"There's no reason why you can't visit both. But I do need to see this…..Xander. And I'm issuing an official order."

The trio tensed up. But Chrom smiled.

"A mandatory month of living here in Ylisstol. After all, your parents missed you all. Sound fair?"

"YES! Thank you, noble uncle!" Owain exclaimed passionately. "Your kind words lift my heart to new heights! Why, I think I can-"

"Ahem," Tiki cut him off, "I do need to go back to the Mila Tree eventually. What did the Annas decide to do, following Anankos's war?"

"An ORDER?"

While Ace set up shop in Nohr, the other Annas had been discussing on what to following the battle. They weren't bound to just pop in one world each. The possibility of worlds intersecting due to outside influence was a real danger.

"Yeah!" Apotheosis took out a globe of a new world. "This place right here just popped up. Curiosity, it seems to be in the middle of all of the other worlds, spatially AND it has traces of energy from all of them….Askr and Emblema are about to go to war….and Princess Veronica supposedly has an ace up her sleeve. At the same time, there's this white-robed guy unconscious in Askr. Perfect time for me to jump in!"

"An Order of Heroes….won't you have to prove yourself?"

She picked up a curious axe one of her sisters made for her - Nóatún.

"You forget what my specialty is, sisters…."

"Oooh, that sounds like a good story!" said a girl with familiar blonde hair and a certain mark… "Heroes are great!" She certainly had the magical aura of her mother, Orochi.

"That is called a side story, Ophelia. Look….why don't I wrap this up?"

The caravan had to stop for supplies, but there was no fear. It was a neutral zone to better balance Nohr and Hoshido's size; Xander and Ryoma agreed to give up the same amount of land, as part of their new alliance.
It was empty at first but over time, people from both sides would settle there. These new citizens had been touched by the teamwork of both sides, and wanted the peace to last. Who would be in control of this land?

"Mozu! Aw, you just missed Azura," Corrin greeted. "She left the other day."

"Aw that's okay, I'll see her again."

Corrin was crowned into the role of King for this land, New Valla. Azura was similarly crowned as Queen. The two of us (and to an extent, Lilith) were the remaining Vallites. But the name was more out of convenience; unlike the original Valla, it would celebrate people from outside its borders, not shun them.

"Hey, you still have Flora and all them?"

"Ah, they're visiting Kilma. Flora, Felicia, and Jakob….they've all done so much for me, and I'm grateful they decided to live here."

"I was thinking of doing the same," Kaze said. "It's nice and comfortable here."

Mozu also spotted Silas building a shack himself. He formally left the army for a different future in New Valla. "Say, Lord Corrin?'

"Yes, Mozu?"

"What did you ever do with the Yato?"

Corrin showed her a stand in the center of town; there the blade rested in the base. "It's a symbolic gesture. I don't want to pick that up unless it's absolutely necessary. This world needs peace for a while."

Corrin's twins beamed at their father's words. They had his white hair and pointed ears, but there was a frosty aura around them, after their mother. Their cousin, Dwyer, had a similar aura.

"So…..Jakob. What are your plans for my daughter?"

Every man feared the wrath of their father-in-law, but Jakob was trained to handle any threat, no matter how large or how small. He was sitting across Kilma in the Chief's hut.

"Well, eventually I do plan to marry Felicia. I trust that's acceptable."

"She kept talking about you today, and you seem hard-working. You're loyal to Corrin as well, so I have no doubts about your sense about judgement. You two will live in this….New Valla?"

"As will Flora, as a link between the two countries."

"Hmm…..but you will always visit this place? Eventually, I will die. And I demand one of my children formally command the tribe when that time comes."

"Understood, Master Kilma."

"Have you picked out a ring?"

"Yes."

Kilma nodded. "Then I give you my blessings. But if any harm shall befall Felicia, I will kill you personally. No offense, it is customary of the Chief."

"I would be insulted if you didn't do it yourself! You have a deal."

The two shook hands.

XXXXX

"What do you think they're talking about?"

Outside, Felicia and Flora were building a snowman, like they often did as children. It seemed juvenile, but the twins couldn't stop giggling.

"Oh, Father's probably giving Jakob a threatening speech."

"F-Flora! He wouldn't dare…."

"Felicia, you're his little girl. You think he wants to see you go so easily?" Flora put on a carrot to mark the snowman's nose. "Oh I'll miss this place. But we have greener pastures now…."

"Flora….what do you think Mother would say, if she was still alive?" Felicia set down her pail. "I've been thinking about it….we were maids our whole lives, and now we're leaving the tribe for good."

"She would always be proud of us, Felicia. Not only did we survive, we had each other this whole time. And we protected the tribe and won back their freedom! Sure it was rough getting here-" She rubbed her scars. "-but we pulled through. Together."

"Oh, sister….I love you!" Felicia embraced Flora.

"Me too, Felicia. Me too."

"Did my daddy already live there? In New Valla?"

"Huh? Oh Sophie, yeah. Corrin was surprised when he got closer to your mother, but he was happy nonetheless."

"Ohh…." The half-Vallite looked to her twin cousins. "But I can't turn into a dragon like them, can I?"

"Sorry sweetie. Don't be sad, though, you're still special in your own way. You got your mommy's hair and everything."

"Anna…." Eyes turned to the dour looking child.

"Yes, Rhajat, do you have to use the potty?"

"No…..tell me about Mother and Father…."

"For crying out lou-"

Notre Sagesse would always be a cruel reminder of the callousness of war, and the victims that get caught up in it. The entire island had been slain by the Vallites, and the leaders of the world vowed to never have it repeat to another land.

Graves had been dug for each dead body, and now the sites were filled with flowers to properly mourn the fallen. Soldiers from each country would often take the trek to pay their respects, or to maintain the gravesites. Today was a hard day for Jiro, who was standing near his family's graves.

"I'm sorry. We could've saved them, but…."

"Don't apologize, Lady Hinoka. My uncle wanted you all to survive, and without you all, I think more graves would just pile up here."

Jiro wiped his eyes and set down a bouquet of sunflowers.

"Jiro dear? Do you need a ride to the mainland?"

"No thank you, Lady Camilla, I'd rather take the ferry back to Dia. Anna promised me a job, and I want to take it. Excuse me."

Both princesses watched him go. They were there on behalf of their respective countries, but their siblings had also come along. Elise and Sakura were setting down more flowers, while Leo and Takumi were clearing away any debris or rubble.

"You know…..it's not so bad hanging out with you, Prince Leo. We make a good team."

"Hm, I actually agree, Prince Takumi. If our sisters can be close, why can't we?" They turned and were appropriately stunned when they saw Hinoka and Camilla share a brief kiss.

"How….how did that happen?"

"Let's pretend we didn't see it…."

In a fair distance away, Hayato was helping with waste disposal too. His winds were enough to easily blow them into a neat pile. While Hana - escorting Sakura with Subaki - preferred to use her hands and lift it up manually.

"So Hayato…..are you gonna be Chief one day?"

"Well, one day, but I've still got a lot of training to do. Hopefully I'll shoot up so people can finally take me seriously!"

"Hmph!" Hana threw the rocks into the water. "They already should. You defended your tribe's honor by fighting Daichi! If that's not great I don't know what is!"

Hayato looked proud of himself. "Well….that was a highlight, wasn't it? By the way…..have you visited…?"

"Yeah," Hana said quietly. She would forever have a scar from Sumeragi's attack, but she was glad her father could finally be at rest. "Left some flowers this morning."

"I'm….sorry…."

"Don't be. Those were just swords. The real spirit of Kazahana II lives on in me, and I'll never quit my training! Not now, not ever!"

"But what if you find a husband?" Hayato asked.

"Pfffft! I'll just train twice as hard for me and my baby!"

Rhajat could hardly believe her ears. "Did Mother really say such a thing…..?"

Siegbert's cousin, Forrest, patted her shoulder. "She still loves you." Unlike his cousins, he didn't have blonde hair, but rather the salmon-colored locks of his mother Sakura. And despite being a boy, he enjoyed wearing dresses and having his hair in ringlets.

"You know, this is getting silly, I might as well get to the loose ends here. Whose mommy and daddy didn't I cover?"

Several children raised their hands.

"Soleil put your hand down, I already talked about Inigo!"

"But Mommy….!" She whined. She had the same blue hair as Peri.

"Ok ok…."

"Hey Beruka….do you miss Severa?"

She and Peri were watching soldiers train the courtyard. They were in a unique predicament - having to part ways with their trusted partner. But Beruka stayed strong, both for her sake and her lady's.

"….a little. But it is their own choice if they wish to return."

"Sniff…..I just want to hold Inigo so badly…."

"Cheer up," said a third voice. It was Niles, who emerged from the shadows as he was wont to do. "They'll be back."

"How do you figure?"

Niles smirked. "They said they wanted to avoid getting attached to this world, but you see how miserably they failed at that. Don't you remember how hard they were crying?"

"That was me, silly," Peri said.

"Severa too. So…..do you think we're getting new retainers to work with now?"

"No," Beruka said bluntly. "I refuse to work with anyone who is not Severa. And I'm sure Lady Camilla feels the same way."

"Not the friendliest soul out there, are you?" Niles's looked turn contemplative. "But to be frank, those three were angels compared to the lot of us. We're pretty shady."

"Speak for yourself!" Peri pouted. But she too looked regretful. "I did a lot of bad stuff….."

Beruka said nothing.

"You know, I was chatting up that cute spearfighter from Hoshido…..Oboro, was it? She admitted her partners were killed by bandits. Did a little digging on that. And it seems he was killed by…"

"I know," said the assassin. "I've got a lot to atone for myself. But such is the life of a slum child."

"Will you seek her out to admit it yourself?"

"….yes. I've been meaning to find someone in the east."

"Oooh, Beruka has a boyfriend?" Peri giggled. Beruka shot her a glance but chose not to comment.

"Yay!" Soleil was pleased. "Didja hear that too, Nina?"

Niles's daughter could be as sly as he, but currently she was in the throes of a daydream. "H-Huh? Yeah…..hey, Anna, are we almost done yet?" She had blue hair, from her mother.

"Oh no, you kids kept bothering me about your parents, I am NOT finishing until I cover them all. Now let's see…..where was I….."

In New Valla, Effie was currently digging some trenches for irrigation. Although at Corrin's insistence, she had to use a shovel, not her bare hands. "Huff….huff…keeping up okay, Hinata?"

"Sure….a-am….." Even with all his strength, he was several meters behind her. "Oboro, can't you give me some water?"

"No way!" said the spearfighter. "You went on and on about how you could do this without my help! All to show off in front of Effie, right?"

"Yargh! You're evil!"

Effie stopped. "Show off? Oh that's silly, Hinata, you don't have to impress me."

"I….I don't? Huh….takes a load off my back, then."

"You can coast by on looks alone. You'd make a good trophy husband for a lucky woman."

Oboro dropped to the ground in one second, howling with laughter. Hinata turned as red as Hinoka's hair.

Hisame didn't know whether to be embarrassed by his father's lack of grace or his mother's bluntness. So he covered his face and scooted into the corner.

Arthur and Setsuna had an easier task - planting trees. Of course, Azama thought it was easy. They still kept tripping and falling into puddles.

"This is hard work….."

"Never fear! Take my hand, I'll lift you back up!"
But even someone as cynical as Azama had to admit, there was a nice little charm to their behavior. Two unlucky souls each with an innocent heart.

"Say…..ahem, dearest Setsuna?"

"What is it…Arthur?"

"Well….I've been wondering about the future. We have lieges to serve, only now there's a fair chance….ahem, we'll see each other less and less. Of course, letters are a thing but….well, it's not quite the same, you know?"

"Aw, you're right. You're fun to hang out with. You make me laugh."

Arthur grinned. "Thank you, Setsuna. You're an enjoyment to convene with as well! You're quite striking, and loyal to boot!"

"Hey…..you mean my bow, right?"

Azama wished he had popcorn.

"N-Not quite. You're….fetching."

"Like a dog?"

"Well yes, but….no! Setsuna, I wanted to say…..urm….."

"What?"

"….alluring," Arthur said following a blush. "I haven't met a woman like you before, Setsuna. We have this unique synergy, wouldn't you say?"

"I dunno what that means but you're the nicest man I've ever met." Now their blushes matched. "So what if we have to go away? I can still dream about you."

"S-Setsuna….perhaps…..er…I could take you out to dinner!"

"How about now, I'm kinda hungry….."

"S-Sure! We just have to inform Lord Corrin!"

"Ok…." Setsuna giggled. The two looked so happy at the prospect of growing closer, and they were willing to hold the other's hand. Azama was pleased, but when he realized where they were walking-

"Wait, stop you two!"

-it was too late to warn them from falling into a nearby hole. He ran over to check if they were unharmed, and they were - but they didn't care.

Arthur's son Percy cheered. "Yay! Mom and Pop!"

"Thank you Miss Anna / for telling me about them / the story must go on"

Azama's daughter, Mitama, was already skilled at turning things into haikus. Certainly not something she learned from her mother (that was throwing knives) but she loved her all the same.

Mozu finally arrived at Dia, and there was Anna and Shura at the shop, but Azura was there as well. "Mozu! You made good time!"

"Anna! Thanks for letting me visit my mother for a while. How's business?"

"BOOMING!" Anna said happily. "Shura will help you run things while I'm away with Azura. We're gonna visit my family for a bit, so she can get to know them."

"Heh, maybe with Mozu around we can FINALLY get a new sign!" Shura smirked. "You've been so busy spending gold on other renovations!"

"The parade float was 100% needed!"

Azura took Anna's hand. "Come on. Let's have Mozu settle in. Your sisters have been waiting to see us…."

"Sure, sure. Goodbye, guys! Keep the shop in good shape!"

Mozu watched the two leave, towards the harbor. Anna seemed so happy, every step practically bounding. And it was heartwarming to see the once stoic Azura in a similar state.

"Hey….Mozu, are you crying?"

"Oh…Shura….I still can't believe this all happened. It only feels like yesterday I was in the rain, worrying about Ma's farm…I met Anna….we traveled the world….found out a secret kingdom and plot…..went to war….and saved the world….all while meeting folks from across the continent. Can you believe it?"

"Nah. But that's what happens when you meet a girl like Anna. Things get turned on their head, and your life is never the same." He leaned back. "Is that a bad thing?"

"No….if I never met Anna…..I dunno what I'd be doing." Mozu wiped her eyes. "I can't stop crying, Shura. She wanted to stay here, and run a business with little old me. Can you see me now, Father?" She looked into the sky. "Your little girl is growing up!"

"Hey! Are you alright?" Scarlet stopped by the shop with something cradled gently in her arms. "Need a tissue, Mozu?"

"Miss Scarlet! Golly….I'll be fine. Where are you off to?"

"Aw, I just came back from Cheve. Everyone's doing well, but I wanted to go to Notre Sagesse to put some flowers by Shelley's grave."

"That an egg?" Shura asked.

"Yep. A wyvern egg! I know it won't replace Crimson, but…maybe it's time I move on and get a new friend. What should I name it?"

"How about Shiro, after your grandfather?"

Scarlet beamed. "Nah, that's for my future kid. I know! What about….Magenta?"

"But what if it's male?"

"I don't understand the question. Well, I'll be seeing ya! After the ferry trip, I'll be going to Hoshido to see Ryoma!"

"Good luck out there!" Mozu waved her off. She waved back and headed towards the harbor.

"That just leaves Shigure!" said Sophie. "How did it happen, anyways? He doesn't have a daddy!"

"Kids….it's all kinda weird, but Shigure is loved all the same. It was a final miracle from my own mother. Azura was so happy, she wasn't even phased. I guess I can tell ya…"

Azura was exhausted.

Meeting ALL of Anna's sisters at once was much more daunting that she had expected. She could always tell which one was her Anna, but they all looked identical and spoke in the same way, minus French Anna. And they wouldn't stop gushing over her, or how "cute she was with our sister", and so on.

"Tired, Azura?"

"Yes, but….I'll be fine. We have a break now. Your sisters are such lovely people, though. They seemed to support us."

"Like they would reject their baby sister. C'mon, lemme show you something."

Anna lead her to the chamber where her mother was cursed. Once a magical pool, it was nothing more than a small puddle in the well. There was something familiar about it, even though this was Azura's first time seeing it. So she stepped into the dry pool, and examined the puddle.

"What happened?"

"Eventually there was enough Annas to go around. But she was still our mother. Even if she had to go through all this."

Curiously, Azura crouched down….and placed her fingers into the pool. The water didn't feel like any water she had touched before.

"Hey! Don't do that!"

"Oh, Anna, you said it yourself…..it's nothing now. But it's such an amazing phenomenon, I had to feel it."

"Amazing?"

Azura nodded. "It produced life in a unique way. Your mother is proof there are things out there that are hard to understand. Does that make them imaginary? Not quite."

"Wow….going all philosopher on me, huh?"

Smiling, Azura even placed her feet into the puddle. "Dance with me, Anna."

"Huh? Have you been drinking?"

"Dance with me. I always sing and sing, but I've been wanting to perfect the other half of it. Please? It's good practice for when Ryoma marries Scarlet."

"I could see that. Alright!" Anna jumped into the pit and took Azura's hand. "I haven't done this before, just so you know."

Azura smiled. "It's okay. I can teach you."

"Azura….."

"Awww, auntie's crying!"

"I AM NOT!" Anna wiped her eyes in haste. "Ugh….okay, maybe a little. But after that tender moment, Azura and I got closer and closer. But then we were both busy for a while - me with the business, her with diplomacy…..we didn't see each other until months after."

It was a day Anna would never forget. Mozu was visiting her new boyfriend Benny while Shura was taking a trip to Izumo for a vacation. Jiro was on delivery, so that left Anna alone at the shop. She was extremely bored, as no customers had shown up on this rainy day.

Until she heard the bell ring.

"WELCOME TO ANNA'S…Azura? Is that you?"

Azura closed her umbrella. "Yes. Anna, I've got good news."

"Well come closer so I can see ya…..I'm waiting for a new shipment of lantern oil."

"If you're certain…."

Once Azura got to the front desk, Anna's eyes practically exploded. She clearly had an extended tummy, and that only meant one thing.

"A-AZURA! I….you…you cheated on ME?!"

"Don't be silly, Anna. This is yours."

"Oh….you mean….when you stepped into the…."

"Yes."

"So I'm…..going to be….a mother….."

"I am as well. Are you excited?" Azura looked radiant with joy. "I'll admit it was sudden, but perhaps with you around I could explain it easier to the others…Anna?"

Anna was currently out cold on the tiled floor.

The product of such an event hugged his other mother. He wasn't like the Annas. He didn't have red hair or that cheeky smile, instead blue hair and a polite disposition, but Anna loved him all the same as her own son.

"Shigure….don't look at me…."

"Mother….why are you upset?"

"Because…..because I thought you'd be ashamed of me. We never told you how you were born until now. You have two mommies. Isn't that weird?"

Shigure also had inherited Azura's blunt honesty. "It's not weird to me. I'm still your son. You're still my mother. And I thank you for bringing me into this world."

"Well…it takes to two to tango…..say, Shigure…..do you think…..do you think you can sing that song like your grandmother used to?"

"YEAH!" the other children were excited. Not only was Shigure like a big brother to them, but he had such a great voice that his songs were a treat to behold.

"If that is what your heart desires, Mother, I will oblige."

"I love you so much, kiddo."

"I love you too, Mother."

And thus, Shigure began the song that was the key to it all, from combating the vicious Silent Dragon to quelling a weary world wrecked by war…..

"You are the ocean's grey waves~"

Only now, that world had healed its wounds, for a happier future. A future Anna was all too grateful to be a part of.

FIN:

Ending notes: Well...it's finally done. At first I wasn't sure how I wanted to tackle it, but having the aftermath be a backdrop to Anna telling the story to the (organically) born 2nd gen killed two birds with one stone. The time set in Anna's retelling is ambiguous on purpose, but I assume a good range is 4-10, with Shigure here being the oldest, while kids to young characters like Rhajat or Kiragi being the youngest. I am aware some of these pairings aren't as justified as the others, but again, time constraints.

I'm glad it's finally done, and I really want to thank all of you guys. I do this so many times, but this fic has always had consistent support and interest. It is still my most viewed and most reviewed fic, and I wager it probably will be a while. We've had ups, we've had downs, but it's all finally done. :)

What now? Well I've started a fic set in Tellius if you want to read that. I won't rule out one-shots set in this universe but I honestly need a break from FE13/14 for a while.

Thanks for reading, and I'll see you around!