Xenologue: Hot-Spring Scramble (Script)

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Pre-Battle

Chrom
Hmm... I'm fairly certain this is the place...

Merchant
Oh, welcome! You must be Chrom. I have your reservation right here. Has your whole party arrived, or are you still waiting on a few?

Chrom
Umm... First, could you just confirm we've arrived in the, er...you know?

Merchant
The Bathrealm? That's right. Don't be embarrassed. My sisters DID explain what you're in for when they invited you, I hope?

Chrom
Well...they thanked us for protecting the Outrealms and gave us these passes... Apparently you have some sort of healing waters in which we can soak?

Merchant
That's right—our hot springs. Each has its own special properties! Anyway, make yourselves right at home. We're honored to have you. If anyone has earned some R & R, it's celebrities like you!

Chrom
Not this again...

Merchant
Oh, yes. You guys are HUGE in the Outrealms. Everyone knows you! We even voted on which of you we like the most.

Chrom
Yes, so we discovered when we visited that beach resort you invited us to. ...Thank your sister for making me prance around in those smallclothes, by the way.

Merchant
It was a swimsuit! Yeesh... Anyway, I can see how that might have been a bit intimidating. Fortunately, you don't have to show nearly as much skin here! Instead, you get to wear yukatas.

Chrom
Yukatas? What are those?

Merchant
You've never heard of a yukata? Well, take a look at the one I've got on. It's basically a loose robe that you fasten with a belt called an "obi." ...See? Totally modest and dignified.

Chrom
Yes, refreshingly so.

Merchant
Heh heh. Told ya. There's no better way to spend a day at the springs. Looks like all your swordmasters have already slipped into theirs... I guess a yukata isn't too far a cry from what they were wearing already. Now it's your turn! I've got a special yukata for you right here...

Chrom
That mark again?! Why does all my clothing have to have the Brand on it?

Merchant
Huh? But my sister said you looked really good in it.

Chrom
Yeah, well, your sisters say a lot of things...

Lissa
Chrom!

Chrom
What is it, Lissa?

Merchant
Hi there! Are you looking for your yukata?

Chrom
Do they even make yukatas in sizes that small?

Lissa
Har har, very funny. Do I look like I'm in a laughing mood? I just went to check out the hot springs, and they're full of monsters! GROSS!

Chrom
You mean Risen?!

Merchant
Ugh, not again... See what happens when you set up shop in snow country? The hot springs are the warmest place for miles, so wildlife just won't stay away.

Lissa
Um, these guys weren't fluffy enough to be called "wildlife"... Anyway, Chrom, are you coming or not?! We can't relax in the water until we kill all the dead things in it.

Chrom
Good point. And they might attack the other guests... To the hot springs, everyone! We have to take those Risen down!

Merchant
And away they go. I don't think his swordmasters even had time to change back into their clothes... Well, no harm done. Maybe I can convince a few more of them to try on yukatas! I even cooked up some special hair dye to complete the look I'm going for...

Start Battle

Lucina
So these are the hot springs? They really do look just like a giant bath. Our future never held anything even half as lovely as this... Just look at the foliage floating there on the water! It's breathtaking... I look forward to relaxing here once the fighting is done.

Merchant
ATTENTION, SHEPHERDS. THIS IS A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT. *Click* *hiss* ANYONE HEAR ME?

Lucina
Hear you?! Gods, every word is like a hammer strike...

Merchant
WHAT, TOO LOUD? *screech* ...Sorry. There. I adjusted the volume. I'm using a Megaphone tome to speak long distance. It's an Anna original. It gets steamy in the springs, so we needed a system to locate lost guests. ...Oh, when you reply, please speak clearly into those magical stones, okay?

Lucina
Amazing. You've thought of everything. So what is this "special announcement"?

Merchant
Well, remember how I mentioned we voted on which of you we like best? Turns out the results are in, and I get to award the top four a very special prize!

Lucina
Only four of us?

Merchant
Aww, don't worry. ALL of you are popular. It's just...well...some are you are easier to latch on to than others, I guess. Today's vote is just for those of you visiting from the future. So do you want to know who won? Of course you do! For the men, the winners are... Drumroll, please... Owain aaaaaand...Inigo! Let's give it up! Woo! And for the ladies, we have... Lucina aaaaaand...Severa! You go, girls. Now which of you four are here with us today? Wait right here at this winners' circle to claim your prize. I promise to turn each of you into a brand-new you!

Lucina
Brand-new you? What exactly does that mean?

Merchant
You'll just have to drop by and see! Don't worry. I'll stay here as long as it takes.

Lucina
This sounds worrisome...

[Note: The prior scene does not occur if Lucina is not yet recruited.]

>'Player Phase' flashes

Merchant
Hey, Robin... Is it me, or do the enemy swordmasters look WAY too comfy in there? It's like they haven't even noticed you. ...Who knew the dead liked to soak? Maybe you can pick them off with bows or magic before they snap out of it.

Costume Change Scenes

Lucina

Lucina
Is this the place? I'm almost afraid to ask why I was summoned here...

Merchant
Welcome, Lucina! And congratulations! You've been selected as one the future's most popular ladies!

Lucina
What...? By whom? This must be some mistake. I couldn't possibly presume to accept such an honor. Still, I thank you all the same. I'm flattered to have even been considered—

Merchant
Oh, there's no mistake, I assure you! In fact, as a result of your selection...the Bathrealm has decided to present you with this commemorative yukata! And after you try it on, we've got another little surprise waiting for you too. I'm so excited! Your transformation is the one I've been looking forward to the most.

Lucina
Transformation...?

Merchant
All right, let's get you inside. I'll help slip you into your yukata.

Lucina
O-oh, right. Very well. I...appreciate the help.

>screen goes black

Lucina
A commemorative yukata, huh? I wonder which one it is... Oh? Look at that!

Merchant
All right, let's get started! Here's the yukata I've selected... Hmm...? What is it, Lucina? Is something the matter?

Lucina
That yukata there... Might I try that one?

Merchant
You mean the one with the Brand pattern that I offered to Chrom?! Um... That yukata wasn't exactly intended to be worn by, uh...

Lucina
Never mind about that! It's absolutely spectacular... No, I've decided. It's the only one that interests me!

Merchant
Okay, okay! I get it. Let me see if I can find one with that pattern a bit closer to your size...

Lucina
Yes, please do!

Merchant
Here we go. All right, let's give this one a try. Step this way, please.

Lucina
Gladly!
*Shwip, fwip*
*Squeeze*
Oh, would you look at this? It's every bit as spectacular as I hoped. Thank you so much!

Merchant
Well, as long as your satisfied... And now for the finishing touch... Let's color your hair!

Lucina
My...hair?

Merchant
That's right. To match your yukata, you need a nice twilight shine! I'm actually a natural redhead myself, you know—just like my sisters. But I dyed my hair with a special elixir designed to accentuate my yukata. I'll do the same with yours—when we're done, we'll look like twins!

Lucina
I see. Well, I suppose it couldn't hurt to give it a try. I couldn't help noticing how striking it looks on you, after all.

Merchant
Oh, you're too kind! All right, well, let's start applying the elixir.

Lucina
Eek! It's s-so cold! And it kind of stings...

Merchant
That should go away soon. ...Hopefully. Now we just sit back and wait for the dye to set in! You should be good to go in three...two...

>Lucina's hair is dyed a shinier blue

Lucina
Wow! It really does shine!

Merchant
Look at you! Come on, let's set outside and show the world!

>Lucina's Yukata CG

Lucina
What do you think? Does this pattern suit me as well as it does my father?

Merchant
Are you kidding? It looks like it was made just for you! Then again, I bet someone like you could make any yukata look good.

Lucina
Heh... You flatter me. But I'm delighted to hear it all the same. Thank you for humoring me. I know this isn't the yukata you had in mind. In any case, I'd better get changed back into my normal clothes now.

Merchant
What? You're changing back already?! But it looks so good on you! Why not savor it for just a little while longer?

Lucina
Would that I could... But not while my friends are risking their lives. We can't afford to tarry any longer—peace must be restored to the springs! We've caused you enough trouble already.

Merchant
You caused ME trouble? How so?

Lucina
Because of these hideous monsters! They attacked as soon as we arrived. The ambush was surely intended for us.

Merchant
...... Heh heh...

Lucina
Wh-what's so funny?

Merchant
You really are the sweetest thing. No wonder you won so many votes! Now put that thought out of your mind. These monsters didn't come for you. It's pure chance that they showed up when they did. I should be apologizing! I appreciate your sense of duty, but we all need to take a break sometimes. Just like you guys are trying to do right now.

Lucina
...... I...I suppose you're right. Thanks again for letting me try the yukata and for dyeing my hair. It really did mean a lot to me.

Merchant
No thanks necessary. I enjoyed it too! Now, let's get you back to your old self.

Lucina
Indeed!

>screen returns to battle map

Merchant
Thanks for coming, Lucina. Your hair's back to normal, by the way!

Lucina
It is...? You're right! That certainly was fast...

Merchant
Yes, that was just a short-term elixir I use for sample purposes. If you like, I'd be happy to apply another dose?

Lucina
Ah, I appreciate the offer, but...

Merchant
Heh. I had a feeling you'd say that. And as much as I hate to admit it, your natural hair is already stunning. No dye could ever match the resplendent blue that you and your father share.

Lucina
Thank you. For that, and everything. Well, I'd better be getting back now. The next time I'm able to catch my breath...could you show me a few more yukata?

Merchant
Are you kidding? It'd be my pleasure! I'll make sure I'm well stocked with lots of the...bolder designs that you prefer.

Owain

Owain
So this is the fated "winners' circle", is it? But why summon me here? What could they be planning...?

Merchant
There's our winner! Welcome and congrats, Owain! You've been selected as one of the future's most popular men!

Owain
Popular?! You fools... To so willfully ignore the insatiable fury that taints my blood!

Merchant
Uh...yeah. Sure, kid. Anyway, as a result of your selection...the Bathrealm has decided to present you with this commemorative yukata! After you try it on, we've got another little surprise waiting for you too.

Owain
Huh? B-but my sword arm thirsts for battle! I don't have time for—

Merchant
Right, right. Now please step inside. I'll help get you into that yukata!

Owain
Y-yes, ma'am...

>screen goes black

Owain
I need to get back into character... My big scene is coming up! This costume change marks the hero's ultimate awakening!

Merchant
All right, let's get you dressed. Here you go: your custom yukata!

Owain
Gods above! It...it cannot be! This color... This pattern! This must be...the fabled lost raiment of the legendary Enigma King! Its power...overwhelms! Hurry! Tie the Belt of Warding before I'm consumed!

Merchant
Would you sit still and stop squirming already? And quit flexing too.

Owain
Y-yes, ma'am.
*Rustle, bustle*
*Scrunch*
All set? And not a moment too soon... The wards may hold—but for how long?!

Merchant
And now for the final step...it's time to dye your hair!

Owain
Indeed! ...Wait, what now?

Merchant
Your hair! To match the yukata, it needs a more mystical color. We call this one "Twilight Gloaming".

Owain
T-Twilight Gloaming?! You do have a way with names... I respect that.

Merchant
When we're through with your hair, it'll be the same color as mine! I'm actually a natural redhead, you know—just like my sisters. But I dyed my hair with a special elixir designed to accentuate my yukata. I'm going to use the same one on you. We'll be like siblings!

Owain
You intend to taint this kingly coiffure? A millennia-old symbol of royal glory?! And yet...part of me yearns for release from the shackles of heritage... Very well. Do it! Debase me with your common dye! Befoul me with your Twilight Gloaming!

Merchant
Um...okay... You know it's only temporary, right...? Anyway, I've got it right here. One shot of Twilight Gloaming coming right up!

Owain
Huh? Wh-what foul devilry is this?! It's cold and...it smells funny.

Merchant
Hey, this is high-quality stuff! Just hold still. You'll be fine. And...there we go! Now give the elixir a moment to do its thing, and you're set. ...There. All finished!

>Owain's hair is dyed blue

Owain
What?! The man in the looking glass... He is me, and yet...I know him not!

Merchant
Ooh, not bad, handsome! Let's go outside and show everyone!

>Owain's Yukata CG

Owain
Bear witness to the legend reborn... My visage commands evil's gaze like moonlight reflected on drawn steel!

Merchant
It sure does! Which maybe isn't so hot if you're trying to avoid enemies... But hey, if you're looking to stand out, it's perfect!

Owain
Ugh! My sword arm...throbs with fury... Is it resonating with the yukata?! If I can't keep this dire magic in check, the whole spring...will be obliterated...

Merchant
I have no idea what he's talking about, but at least he likes the yukata... Hey, Owain? That yukata is for sale! How'd you like to take it home with you?

Owain
What?! You would seek to permanently bind me to this garment...? Hmm... The rites of binding are known to be dangerous and painful... Still, I may be the only man alive capable of containing its power...

Merchant
So you'll take it? Great! A pleasure doing business with you. I'll just write you out an invoice here...

Owain
...... WHAT?! How could any one piece of clothing possibly cost that much?!

Merchant
Huh? It's the, uh...legendary fabric! That's why it resonates with you so!

Owain
Th-thanks, but...I think just wearing it once was probably enough. I'll just change back to my old clothes, and we'll forget this ever happened...

Merchant
Aw, are you suuure you don't want it? You were so excited about it...

Owain
N-no, I'm good, really! If I ever spent that much money on clothes, my mother would kill me...

Merchant
Heh. Sorry to hear it, kid. If you change your mind, you know where to find me!

>screen returns to battle map

Merchant
Thanks for dropping by, Owain. I hope you enjoyed the yukata! That's all that really matters.

Owain
Huh...? My hair's back to its old color already...

Merchant
Oh, right. That's just a short-term elixir for sample purposes. If you like, I'd be happy to apply another dose...

Owain
N-no, that's fine, thanks. The Twilight Gloaming was nice, but I'm happy with my natural color. It's a reminder of my late father...

Merchant
Oh, I see. Of course. Well, how about I put this yukata aside for you for a little while? Talk it over with your mother, and if she approves, you can come back for it.

Owain
Wh-what?! I'm not some child tugging at the hem of my mother's dress! I...simply lack the strength to bind with so potent an artifact! That's all! But I shall strive to amass experience, and once I have a great wealth of...experience... I vow to fulfill my duty to ensure the magic raiment is held by the forces of justice!

Merchant
All right. Well, once you've got the money saved up, the yukata will be waiting.

Owain
You have my gratitude, noble guardian of the Enigma King's legacy!

Inigo

Inigo
Is this where we're supposed to meet? My heart is racing! It's not every day I get a summons from a beautiful woman...

Merchant
Oh! Come on in. I'm so glad you made it! Since you've been selected as one of the future's most popular men...the Bathrealm has decided to present you with this commemorative yukata! And after you try it on, we've got another little surprise waiting for you too.

Inigo
Reeeally? Not just the yukata, you say? Something...else too?

Merchant
Absolutely! Now come on in, and I'll start getting you dressed.

Inigo
All right, sounds goo— Wait... You're coming in here too? ...While I'm getting dressed?!

Merchant
Sure am! But don't you worry—I won't touch you anywhere creepy.

Inigo
How bizarre! That's usually my line...

>screen goes black

Inigo
Um...excuse me, but...I think I'll just get dressed by myself, so... Could you give me a moment here? You can help with the belt after...

Merchant
Absolutely not. Do you know how difficult it is to wear these properly? I take pride in my products, and I won't have you looking like a fool out there!

Inigo
I-I didn't mean...

Merchant
Good. Now, let's get started. Here's the yukata I picked for you.

Inigo
Wow, that's really quite nice! It would be an honor to wear this. But tell me, my sweet...do you treat all of your customers like this?

Merchant
...What do you mean, "like this"?

Inigo
It's just...some might call your treatment a bit...forceful. You know? Perhaps your male customers would prefer a more...demure saleswoman? Urgh! M-miss! It's too...tight! I-I can't...I can't breathe!

Merchant
Oh? You'll have to forgive me, dear. My hands must have slipped. There. Does that feel better?

Inigo
*Gasp* Ah, yes... That's... That's much better. (I should probably take a bit more care not to offend her...)

Merchant
Alrighty, now that you're all dressed, we're ready to dye your hair!

Inigo
...My hair?

Merchant
That's right! When wearing a yukata, your hair should sparkle like a starry sky. Like mine! I'm actually a natural redhead, you know—just like my sisters. But I dyed my hair with a special elixir designed to accentuate my yukata. Come on—you only live one, right? Let's see how it looks!

Inigo
I...suppose that's fine. Mainly because I'm afraid of what you'd do if I refused...

Merchant
Aren't you a fast learner! Here, I'll apply the elixir.

Inigo
Oh my, s-so cold! That sent a chill all the way down my spine! And it's so...sticky... Urgh... Are you sure this stuff's safe?

Merchant
Sure! It comes on a little strong, but I promise it's worth it. Just hold tight for a bit longer, and your hair will change like magic! Here it comes!

>Inigo's hair is dyed blue

Inigo
Oh, look at that! Wow... I barely look like myself at all!

Merchant
Oh, you look far more impressive. Come on, let's pop outside!

Inigo
Already? B-but I'm not ready to let everyone see me like this! Hey, don't pull so hard! You're gonna tear the sleeve!

>Inigo's Yukata CG

Inigo
Gods, this is so embarrassing... Please don't look at me!

Merchant
Oh, come on! There's nothing to be embarrassed about! The hair color is great, the yukata looks wonderful on you... Women are going to be throwing themselves at you left and right!

Inigo
D-do you really think so?

Merchant
Oh, I know so. And I've got thousands of satisfied customers to prove it!

Inigo
I see... Well, that does make me feel a bit better. Thank you. You've renewed my confidence. Perhaps this look isn't all that bad!

Merchant
Glad you like it! It's for sale, you know... Why not take it back home with you? I bet you can't buy anything like this in your own world, right? And think of how great it would be for your dance performances!

Inigo
Yes, a garment like this would certainly inspire some new dance routines...

Merchant
Right? Tell you what—if you act now, I'll even throw in the magical hair elixir. It'll be great for giving that special someone a taste of an all-new you!

Inigo
S-special someone...?

Merchant
Oh? Got someone in mind there, don't you, loverboy? Whoever she is, I'm sure she'd love to see you like this, no?

Inigo
What?! I...I...

Merchant
I bet she'd be dazzled by your new look. She might just fall in love on the spot! Play a little shy, like you are now—then slowly approach, and whisper... "I wore this for you, baby." Ooh, what girl could possibly resist...?!

Inigo
S-stop it, please! You're getting me all worked up! Look... I wore it like I said I would. Now I'm changing back to my clothes. And this time, stay out, would you? I can get dressed by myself!

Merchant
Inigo, wait! *Sigh* He went back inside... Boy, I certainly botched that sale! I thought he'd want in for sure...

>screen returns to battle map

Merchant
Thanks for indulging me, Inigo. I'm glad you came. And...I'm sorry about the hard sell. The yukata just looked so good on you, it really lit my merchant's spark!

Inigo
Your merchant's spark, huh? Well, in spite of the embarrassment, I admit it was kind of fun. I'm grateful for the compliment too. So...thanks for that. By the way, what happened to my hair? It's back to its old color already!

Merchant
Oh, that was just a short-term elixir I use for sample purposes. If you like, I'd be happy to apply another dose?

Inigo
Ah, no, that's all right. It was a fine look, but I think I prefer my natural color. It feels good to have the same hair color as my father, you know?

Merchant
I understand completely. If you change your mind, just let me know. Normally the yukata and the elixir are sold as a set...but for you? Not only will I sell the elixir separately—I'll sell it to you at a wholesale price! In fact, act now and I'll throw in a bunch of free samples too! What a value!

Inigo
Yeesh... Once your merchant's spark is lit, what does it take to put it out?

Severa

Severa
So this is the place, is it? What's her deal, calling me here in the middle of battle? This better be good...

Merchant
There you are, Severa! Thanks for coming. Since you've been selected as one of the world's most popular ladies...the Bathrealm has decided to present you with this commemorative yukata! And after you try it on, we've got another little surprise waiting for you too.

Severa
Oh? W-well, new clothes are always nice... And what girl doesn't like surprises? Ugh, but no! I don't have time to hang out and play dress-up while—

Merchant
Then hurry on in here! I'll help get your yukata on.

Severa
ACK! H-hey! I never said I'd do it! Q-quit pushing me, will you? I don't have time for this!

>screen goes black

Severa
What is wrong with you?! Now my hair and clothes are a mess. Keep your damn hands to yourself!

Merchant
Oops. Sorry about that! But I wasn't about to just let you run off, you know... Not before I could see you in the yukata I picked out for you!

Severa
What?! This looks...familiar.

Merchant
It should! The pattern is based on the colors that your mother always wears. I'm sure it'll look wonderful on you. Care to try it on?

Severa
...... *Sigh* I SUPPOSE I could humor you... But make it quick, you hear? The others are waiting.

Merchant
I wouldn't have it any other way. Now hop on over here.

Severa
Fine, fine...
*Rustle, bustle*
*Swish*
Huh. Well, at least you seem to know what you're doing...

Merchant
You embarrass me with your praise. And now for the finishing touch... Let's get your hair dyed!

Severa
Let's what? You already messed up my hair—now you're changing its color?!

Merchant
Sure am! When a lady wears a yukata, her hair should sparkle like a starlit sky! I'm actually a natural redhead you know—just like my sisters. But I dyed my hair with a special elixir designed to accentuate my yukata. Come on, this is your chance to be at the forefront of contemporary fashion!

Severa
Hmph... I suppose it wouldn't kill me to try out a new look... but don't think you suckered me in with that "forefront of fashion" nonsense!

Merchant
Noted! Now, sit still for a moment while I apply the elixir...

Severa
Ugh! What the hell?! It's cold! And yet, somehow it burns... G-get that stuff away from me!

Merchant
Hey, that's the price you pay for beauty! Hold tight for just a little longer. The color is about to change... Okay, here we go!

>Severa's hair is dyed blue

Severa
Whoa, it really did change! This is so weird...

Merchant
Ooh, it looks great on you, Severa! Come on, let's get back outside.

Severa
H-hey, take it easy, would you? What's with all the pushing?!

>Severa's Yukata CG

Severa
Fine, we're outside. Are you happy? ...So what's the verdict? Yay? Nay?

Merchant
Oh, definitely yay! You look gorgeous, Severa! You're every bit the beauty that your mother is.

Severa
Please. Spare me the sales pitch. I don't hold a candle to my mother. I'm sure the yukata you chose for me would look a whole lot better on her...

Merchant
Well, you're probably right about that.

Severa
See?! I knew it...

Merchant
Hee hee. That's not what I mean. See, yukatas look better on...well, let's just say "smaller" women. They're not exactly ideal for those with...ample proportions.

Severa
Huh? Are you serious?! *Sigh* I guess Mother wins again. She's as flat as an undented kite shield...

Merchant
Are you mocking her or admiring her? It's...kind of hard to tell sometimes.

Severa
Can't it be both? But wait a minute here. Are you trying to say...I've got bigger ones than her?

Merchant
As far as I can tell! Not that yours are worth writing home about either...

Severa
Hmm... Interesting... Very interesting indeed! Hee hee! At long last, Severa comes out on top! I've finally bested her in SOMETHING!

Merchant
Well, not to rain on your parade, but...remember how this little chat started? Your mother's modest chest is the reason she wears a yukata so well. Sooo...isn't that a win for her?

Severa
Hey! Can't I have a moment to savor my triumph before you nitpick it to pieces? Aren't you a merchant? What happened to the customer always being right?!

Merchant
Heh heh. Forgive me, Severa. Teasing you is just too much fun! And I really was just teasing earlier. You look spectacular in that yukata. Even more beautiful than your beloved mother, if I may be so bold.

Severa
Ugh, would you just stop talking?! Your hollow flattery makes me ill! I see how it works now... You build me up so you can sell me the yukata, right? Ugh. Turn around—I'm changing back. You can keep your precious yukata!

Merchant
My, my. She sure is cute when she gets flustered...

>screen returns to battle map

Merchant
Aw, look at this. You folded up the yukata perfectly. Thanks, Severa.

Severa
Hmph. Don't thank me for that. It's common sense... By the way, what's up with my hair? It already changed back to its usual color.

Merchant
Oh, right. That's just a short-term elixir for sample purposes. If you like, I'd be happy to apply another dose...

Severa
Thanks, but...no, thanks... I did like the color, but... I'm pretty sure my natural color's already at the "forefront of contemporary fashion."

Merchant
Heh, fair enough. It IS the same color as your father's hair, after all.

Severa
Th-that's got nothing to do with it! I just like the color, is all! Anyway, I have to go. But listen, um...

Merchant
Yes?

Severa
Just...thanks for the little dress-up break. It was kinda fun...in a lame sorta way.

Merchant
Hee hee. Anytime, sweetheart. I'm glad you came.

Enter Battle Quotes

Avatar (M/F)
So these are hot springs... They have their own beauty about them, hmm? I need to put these Risen to a swift end and give the others a chance to recover. Lately it's been battle after battle...

Chrom
You Risen stick out like sore thumbs in a place as tranquil as this. Seriously, can we not even take a bath in peace? Oh well. A Shepherd's got to do what a Shepherd's got to do!

Lissa
Yippee! I love hot springs! Nothing like one big, outdoor bathtub! The girls can all soak in the water together once this is over. It'll be fun! We can share girl stories and gossip about all the guys... Heh heh.

Frederick
Hmm... The rocks here are slippery from all the moisture... I'd better lay out some dry rags before milord and lady take an exalted spill.

Sully
Get outta the water, you filthy corpse! That's disgusting! Ugh, if we're gonna use this water, then I can't get rid of you soon enough. Now stop hiding in the damn steam and face me already!

Virion
Risen, here? How curious. Did you think your presence would somehow improve upon the vista? Oh, such boorish taste. I fear it cannot go unpunished.

Stahl
Really? Are you really attacking us in a hot spring? Are you on vacation? *Sigh* I wonder if Risen seek out happy places just to ruin them for everyone. Listen... Promise me that if we find a restaurant Outrealm, you'll stay AWAY.

Vaike
Ooh! The water temperature's just the way Teach likes it—nice and hot. I hereby dub this spring...Lake Vaike! Now get outta my lake so I can finish my bath and get on with dinner!

Miriel
Hmm. These springs all derive from the same mountain... And yet olfactory analysis reveals that each pool comprises different minerals. How is it that one water source yields such disparate boons to the body? Visual corroboration must wait until I clear the steam off my glasses. ...Again.

Sumia
The haze of sunset... Vermilion leaves... This place is just stunning! But I'd better be extra careful walking around here. I trip enough already WITHOUT the rocks being slippery...

Kellam
What's with all this steam? I can't see 10 paces ahead of me... Is that an enemy over there? Hello? Everything is a blur... If this is what I look like to the others, that's really distressing...

Lon'qu
This moisture, this humidity, this slippery footing... I could train here. Yes... But not until I kill these Risen, hop in the bath, and warm up first. Brr...

Ricken
The hot springs smell wonderful! The waters must contain healing agents. I wonder if I could use them to concoct some new kind of vulnerary... Only one way to find out! But first we need to take care of these pests.

Maribelle
Oh my... Not even the manor had a bath this spacious. Something about being wrapped in this steam makes me want to hum a tune... How about "The Ballad of the Bashed-In Risen"? I devised it but seconds ago.

Panne
A secret, healing spring... I am told the taguel guarded over similar waters. I suppose that is something we and the man-spawn have in common... But I refuse to believe taguel allowed Risen in THEIR springs!

Gaius
So this is a hot spring, huh? Always wanted to case one of these. I bet they've got a whole bevy of candies and cakes for souvenirs. Hear that? You're cutting into my taste-testing time. Time to die.

Cordelia
They say these waters do wonders for the skin... I wonder if it's true. I suppose I could make time to soak later, but... No. I am a knight. I am sworn to higher ideals than smooth, beautiful... *sigh*

Nowi
Oh wow! Is this all one big bath? It's huge! I could probably take a dip in here in DRAGON form! Ooh, I can't wait to waste all these enemies and then cannonBAAALLL!

Gregor
Why must Risen always gravitate toward places with many peoples? All Gregor wanted was a little relaxing time in hot springs... Gregor is very good at humming in bath, yes? Also good at drowning Risen!

Libra
How lovely! Gods bless the good folk who found this land and tamed it. It was surely no easy task to build in a cold, harsh frontier like this one. But such endeavors bring people closer together. For that we must be thankful.

Tharja
A public bathing area? In the nude?! Has this whole town gone mad? Wait... What if they have? That's it! The steam is hexed to loosen inhibitions! Hee hee... I know exactly who to try it on once this battle is over...

Olivia
I've been to hot springs before while touring the land... But I was always there to dance—never to enjoy the springs myself. Today will be my first chance! I'm so excited!

Cherche
What a marvelously large bath! House Virion never had anything like this. But it seems rather lacking in terms of privacy... Won't people spy on us? ...I know! I'll just put Minerva on watch. That should frighten any Peeping Toms.

Henry
Ooh, hot springs! I've heard of these! You sit in the water for a while, and the minerals do stuff to your body. I wonder if the minerals can help me cast any awesome new dark magic!

Say'ri
Bathing together in the springs seems to be a tradition in this land as well. The thought alone brings me back to my beloved Chon'sin... *sniff* I...I'm not... It's just... Oh, fie! 'Tis just the steam in my eyes, I swear!

Basilio
Hah! What a spectacular spring this is! Let's finish this quick so I can get back to enjoy a soak with a full mug of mead! Any of you Shepherds man enough to join me for a drink?!

Flavia
I hope everyone realizes how corrosive steam can be to weapons and armor. Fortunately, Chrom's army seems to be pretty good at maintaining their gear. Hah! When did I become a worrywart? YOU'RE the one who should be worried!

Donnel
Is this really just one big bathtub? I reckon it's bigger'n a lake! Heck, my whole village could fit in here at the same darn time! I'll have to take 'em out here for a spell once we're finished savin' the world.

Anna
It's human nature to flock to places with significant commercial value... But that's no excuse for the likes of you inhuman dirtbags! You're bad for business. If you're not here to shop, get out and stay out!

Tiki
It's been eons since I've had occasion to visit a hot spring... Humans have sought their curative properties since time immemorial. But perhaps their greatest strength is their ability to bring people together...

Lucina
I wonder why the Risen always seem to attack places where people gather. Could there be some shred of humanity left within them? A desire to belong? But this is no time for idle speculation. There is work to be done!

Owain
My blood simmers with a fervor far greater than ever before! But why?! No mere battle has stoked this fury. This source is deeper... More powerful! What? N-no, it had nothing to do with passing by the ladies-only bath, I swear!

Inigo
At least the Risen had the courtesy to show up before we got into the baths. Had they waited a bit longer, we'd have been stuck throwing buckets at them! ...You know, that actually sounds kind of fun. I'll have to give it a try...

Brady
You idiots. Of all the places to attack, why pick a public hot spring?! What if an old-lady tourist got scared and fell and broke a hip or whatever? You think it's funny? We'll see how funny it is when I smash YOUR hips to bits!

Kjelle
I've made good progress in my training regimen. Should I shake things up? The terrain here is terrible, but it might make for a decent agility course... I'll have to dispatch these Risen first. That should be worth half a lap or so.

Cynthia
Suddenly a silhouette emerges from the steam. Who is this striking figure?! *Gasp* Could it be? The Spitfire of the Springs? The Beauty of the Baths? YES! 'Tis Cynthia, and thy doom has come! Ooh, I got the whole line out for once!

Severa
Surprise, surprise. More icky Risen... You guys really can't take a hint, huh? Well, I'm planning to take a nice, long soak once you've been soundly beaten. If any of your nasty Risen goo drips into the springs, I'll...kill you even harder!

Gerome
Those enduring lives of hardship need opportunities to heal their weary souls. I cannot let you miscreants deprive these poor people of so vital a place. ...It's time for you to disappear back into the steam.

Morgan (M)
I've never been to a hot spring before! At least not since I lost my memory. I understand that people often come to places like this with their families... Maybe Mother and I'll make a tradition of coming here, just the two of us!

Morgan (F)
I've never been to a hot spring before! At least not since I lost my memory. I understand that people often come to places like this with their families... Maybe Father and I'll make a tradition of coming here, just the two of us!

Yarne
Bwaaah! A R-Risen just emerged from the stream! Here I thought I'd finally get a nice quiet day to relax and enjoy myself... L-Look, I'm afraid I may slip and drown, so can we fight this out nice and slow?

Laurent
Just as I'd begun a fascinating chemical analysis of the water in this spring...my glasses fogged up and I couldn't finish my work. Then YOU showed up. Do you have any idea how much I abhor being interrupted? Prepare to find out!

Noire
This is pathetic. Attacking a hot spring? What is with you awful creatures? Are you waging war on the tourists and the elderly now...? THIS BOILING PIT OF RELAXATION HERALDS YOUR FUN-RUINING END!

Nah
We get it already. Everywhere we go, you guys attack. The shtick is old now. Where did you all come from, anyway? I never even saw you arrive... Wait, don't tell me you rose up out of the water? UGH, that's GROSS!

Gangrel
Ooh, I'd heard rumors about this place! And gods know I could use a bath... Too bad about all the trash in here. ...And I don't mean just me. But before I can clean my own clock, I'll have to clean yours. C'mere, trash!

Walhart
So you Risen want to have a little bathtime fun, do you? Well, a conqueror bathes alone. If you even dip a finger in my bathwater...you will lose that finger, and with it, a whole lot more...

Emmeryn
Hot...springs...? The water... So warm... Is everyone...going in...after the battle?

Yen'fay
Ah, volcanic hot springs... 'Tis truly one of nature's greatest gifts. Prized both in the present and the past, and likely just as beloved in the future... Perhaps I shall indulge in a bath myself. But first, there is work to be done...

Aversa
Heh. I always wondered why people got so hot and bothered over these springs. But now that I've seen one, I admit I could get used to a place like this... I need to find a way to make this entire facility mine and mine alone. Hmm...

Priam
These hot springs seem like a fine place for a warrior to rest and recover. But as a man who strives for strength, being here is somewhat disheartening... A moment's respite may be too long. A soul's edge must never be dulled!

Conversations

Avatar > Lucina

Lucina
This place has such wonderful atmosphere. Even crawling with Risen, it feels so strangely relaxing.

Robin
Doesn't it? I can't wait to be done with them so we can get to enjoying the springs.

Lucina
You took the words right out of my mouth. Say, Robin? What do you suppose that building there is?

Robin
Going from the sign, I'd say it's a mixed bath.

Lucina
Oh? What do they mix it with?

Robin
Er, no... It's not the water that's mixed—it's the clientele. A mixed bath is one that men and women can enter together.

Lucina
What?! S-such a thing exists? Goodness... This place is certainly progressive.
[If Male] Hmm, but that would mean I'd be able to join you and Father!
[If Female] Hmm, but that would mean you and I would be able to join Father!

Robin
[If Male] Yes, that's— NO! Absolutely not! Please, PLEASE promise me you won't do that. Your father would fillet me for having told you about it in the first place...
[If Female] Yes, that's— NO! Absolutely not! Please, PLEASE promise me you won't join him. A woman your age should not be taking baths with her father.

Lucina
...Huh? W-well, all right. If you say so. So...what about that building there?

Robin
A souvenir shop, I'd wager. You should go take a look once the fighting's done.

Lucina
How charming! They have wood carvings that bear my father's face.

Robin
They what?! Whoa, they do! But why?!

Lucina
Judging from what I've heard, we're minor celebrities in these parts. I suppose it's not so strange to see our likenesses being used so.

Robin
Still, that's a little...you know...

Lucina
Indeed. It must be mine, by any means necessary!

Robin
What? Wait, what?

Lucina
My apologies, Robin. As soon as we've cleared the immediate area, I'll be leaving the front for a moment.

Robin
To go souvenir shopping?! I'm pretty sure they're not going to leap off the shelves anytime soon!

Lucina
One cannot take any chances. A greed-addled mob may be on its way to buy out the entire stock as we speak.

Robin
Lucina, you're scaring me.

Lucina
Yes... I, too, am gripped with fear! I must make haste! Hold on, tiny, wooden Father! I'm coming!

Robin
L-Lucina, wait! There's a whole pack of Risen that way! ...Uh, I mean, there was. Yeesh, she's even fiercer than usual... Just how badly does she want that thing?

Lucina > Avatar

Lucina
Apologies for my absence, Robin. But the mission was a success! Feast your eyes on the sheer craftsmanship!

Robin
That's, um... That's lovely. Hm? Was that not the only thing you bought?

Lucina
No. This caught my eye, and I couldn't pass it up. Doesn't it take you back?

Robin
Wait, is that... That's the same mask you wore when we first met you!

Lucina
Well, a wood replica, but yes! I fear I left the original in the castle courtyard. It's probably still there.

Robin
Ha ha, that does bring back a few memories... Back then, I would never have imagined you were a woman. With that mask on, you were so dashing and manly and cool and collected. Not that you aren't still, of course. Er, well, not manly, exactly, but...you know.

Lucina
Ha ha. Well, thank you. I'm pleased to hear you saw me that way. To tell the truth, I've been half in a panic ever since I arrived in this time.

Robin
Really? Then you've done a remarkable job of hiding it.

Lucina
Masks are good for that. The moment I first saw my father, it was all I could do not to leap into his arms. That, or break down in tears at having seen him alive again after so many years. I couldn't have gotten through it if not for that mask...

Robin
Lucina...

Lucina
[If Male] No doubt I would still be a wreck now, had I given in back then. And I wouldn't be standing here today with you and him...
[If Female] No doubt I would still be a wreck now had I given in back then. Or perhaps I would have run, unable to hold my emotions in check...

Robin
Then I suppose we all owe a great deal of thanks to that mask.

Lucina
...I may have need of it again before long.

Robin
Oh?

Lucina
There is no guarantee that I'll be able to return to the future once peace is won. If I'm to live out my days in this era, I can't allow myself to linger at my father's side. It would only raise questions. Cause confusion... No, it's best I lived in shadow.

Robin
......

Lucina
Shame I'll have to content myself with a replica then, eh? Heh, it seems half ready to splinter in my hands right now. ...I worry it won't long conceal my loneliness.

Robin
I don't see any reason why we should lose you to the shadows. I'd wager good money Chrom would tell you the same. He wants you to stay with him.

Lucina
Yes, he would say that. Of course he would... But I cannot put him in that position. A mysterious woman clinging to the exalt's side, neither his wife nor his daughter? Surely you can imagine what the people would think.

Robin
Perhaps...

Lucina
Then the answer is clear.

Robin
...I'll fix it. Somehow. I'll think of something. Some way that you can stay with Chrom without arousing any strange suspicion. What better test of a tactician's skill than concocting a plan to convince a nation?

Lucina
...... Thank you, Robin. For cheering me up. Meeting you is one of the greatest gifts this era has afforded me.

Robin
R-really?

Lucina
Yes. I truly believe that. Now, shall we rejoin the fray? All this steam is making the mask swell and get soggy. I doubt it can take much more.

Robin
Ugh, no kidding! All right, then. Guess we'd better hurry.

Lucina
Robin. I'm touched that you would craft a strategy for my sake. But there's no need. Even if I cannot return to my own time, and even if I cannot stay with you all, I'll be fine. The time I've shared with all of you and all we've done together will keep me. It's a treasure I will cherish all my life...

Avatar > Lucina (child)

Lucina
This place has such wonderful atmosphere. Even crawling with Risen, it feels so strangely relaxing.

Robin
Doesn't it? I can't wait to be done with them so we can get to enjoying the springs.

Lucina
You took the words right out of my mouth, Mother. Say, what do you suppose that building is?

Robin
Going from the sign, I'd say it's a mixed bath.

Lucina
Oh? What do they mix it with?

Robin
Er, no... It's not the water that's mixed—it's the clientele. A mixed bath is one that men and women can enter together.

Lucina
What?! S-such a thing exists? Goodness... This place is certainly progressive. Hmm, but that would mean you and I would be able to join Father! How wonderful it would be to spend quality family time together in the bath...

Robin
Yes, that's— NO! Absolutely not! PLEASE promise me you won't suggest that that to him! If your father were to charge into the bath with us, we'd have chaos on our hands... Spending time as a family is all well and good, but bath time is an exception.

Lucina
...Huh? W-well, all right. If you say so. So...what about that building there?

Robin
A souvenir shop, I'd wager. You should go take a look once the fighting's done.

Lucina
How charming! They have wood carvings that bear your face, Mother.

Robin
They what?! Whoa, they do! But why?!

Lucina
Judging from what I've heard, we're minor celebrities in these parts. I suppose it's not so strange to see our likenesses being used so.

Robin
Still, that's a little...you know...

Lucina
Indeed. It must be mine, by any means necessary!

Robin
What? Wait, what?

Lucina
My apologies, Mother. As soon as we've cleared the immediate area, I'll be leaving the front for a moment.

Robin
To go souvenir shopping?! I'm pretty sure they're not going to leap off the shelves anytime soon!

Lucina
One cannot take any chances. A greed-addled mob may be on its way to buy out the entire stock as we speak.

Robin
Lucina, you're scaring me.

Lucina
Yes... I, too, am gripped with fear! I must make haste! Hold on, tiny, wooden Mother! I'm coming!

Robin
H-hey! Lucina, wait! There's a whole pack of Risen that way! ...Uh, I mean, there was. Yeesh, she's even fiercer than usual... Just how badly does she want that thing?

Lucina > Avatar

Lucina
Apologies for my absence, Mother. But the mission was a success! Feast your eyes on the sheer craftsmanship!

Robin
That's, um... That's lovely. I'm a little concerned about what you plan to DO with it, but... Hm? Was that not the only thing you bought?

Lucina
Yes, this caught my eye, and I couldn't pass it up. Doesn't it take you back?

Robin
Wait, is that... That's the same mask you wore when we first met you!

Lucina
Well, a wood replica, but yes! I fear I left the original in the castle courtyard. It's probably still there.

Robin
Ha ha, that does bring back a few memories... Back then, I would never have imagined you were a woman. With that mask on, you were so dashing and manly and cool and collected. Not that you aren't still, of course. Er, well, not manly, exactly, but...you know.

Lucina
Ha ha. Well, thank you. I'm pleased to hear you saw me that way. To tell the truth, I've been half in a panic ever since I arrived in this time.

Robin
Really? Then you've done a remarkable job of hiding it.

Lucina
Masks are good for that. The moment I saw you and father, it was all I could do not to leap into your arms. That, or break down in tears at having seen you alive again after so many years. I couldn't have gotten through it if not for that mask...

Robin
Lucina...

Lucina
No doubt I would still be a wreck now, had I given in back then. And I wouldn't be standing here today with you and him...

Robin
Then I suppose we owe a great deal of thanks to that mask.

Lucina
...I may have need of it again before long.

Robin
Oh?

Lucina
There is no guarantee that I'll be able to return to the future once peace is won. If I'm to live out my days in this era, I can't allow myself to linger at your side. It would only raise questions. Cause confusion... No, it's best I lived in shadow.

Robin
Don't be ridiculous, Lucina.

Lucina
Shame I'll have to content myself with a replica then, eh? Heh, it seems half ready to splinter in my hands right now. ...I worry it won't long conceal my loneliness.

Robin
I don't see any reason why we should lose you to the shadows. I know I certainly have no intention to part company with you. I'd wager good money your father would tell you the same.

Lucina
Yes, he would say that. You both would... But I cannot put you in that position. A mysterious woman clinging to the exalt's side, neither his wife nor his daughter? One who bears the Brand that proves her of the exalted bloodline, no less! Surely you can imagine what the people would think.

Robin
Perhaps...

Lucina
Then the answer is clear.

Robin
...I'll fix it. Somehow. I'll think of something. Some way that you can stay with us without arousing any strange suspicion. What better test of a tactician's skill than concocting a plan to convince a nation? You need not worry about a thing, dear. I'll make it right, whatever it takes. You're my daughter!

Lucina
...... Thank you, Mother. For all your love. Being with you again is one of the greatest gifts this era has afforded me. I... Mother, I love you so much.

Robin
Stop. You're going to make me cry.

Lucina
I'm sorry, but I truly believe that. Now, shall we rejoin the fray? All this steam is making the mask swell and get soggy. I doubt it can take much more.

Robin
Ugh, no kidding! All right, then. Guess we'd better hurry.

Lucina
Mother... I'm touched that you would craft a strategy for my sake. But there's no need. Even if I cannot return to my own time, and even if I cannot stay with you, I'll be fine. The time I've shared with both of you and all we've done together will keep me. It's a treasure I will cherish all my life...

Avatar > Lucina (spouse)

Robin
Beautiful place.

Lucina
It really is. Though I fear the view is marred by the Risen. We must see them slain and peace restored to this land at once.

Robin
You sound especially passionate today. That eager to enjoy the springs, are you?

Lucina
I won't deny that's a part of it. But earlier, I overheard a couple as they fled.

Robin
Oh, the newlyweds?

Lucina
Yes. This was to be their first trip together. I cannot abide letting their happy memories be sullied by these monsters. I...I know how I would feel in their position. As a fellow newlywed.

Robin
Lucina... All right, then. We'd better get to work. Then it'll be our turn to make some happy memories!

Lucina
Right! Oh, speaking of that couple... I spoke to the husband briefly. He pointed to that building and mentioned a promise to go there with his wife later. What do you suppose it is?

Robin
That? Going from the sign, I'd say it's a mixed bath.

Lucina
Oh? What do they mix it with?

Robin
Er, no... It's not the water that's mixed—it's the clientele. A mixed bath is one that men and women can enter together.

Lucina
What?! Th-they have such a thing here?! I'm terribly sorry, Robin. I had no idea what I was asking!

Robin
Ha ha. It's fine. You didn't know.

Lucina
Though, now that the initial shock is past...do you have any interest in trying one?

Robin
What?! N-no, I... I'm not sure we're... I'm not sure I'M ready for that.

Lucina
...Even with the rest of the army?

Robin
Oh...oh, I see. Yes, I suppose it might be fun as a big group... But wait, no! NO! You're not allowed into such a place, Lucina! That's a direct request from your husband. ...Uh, please?

Lucina
Hmm? W-well, all right. If you feel that strongly about it...

Robin
Phew...

Lucina
But we ought to do something here, you know? I'd like to have some happy memories of this place. Let's think on it after the combat's done, all right?

Robin
Of course, Lucina.

Lucina > Avatar

Robin
How are you faring over here, Lucina?

Lucina
Mostly done. At this rate, we'll be finished before supper. Plenty of time for those newlyweds to enjoy their evening.

Robin
Excellent! I'm sure they'll appreciate it. As will all the old couples who evacuated with them, I'm sure.

Lucina
Heh, yes, it did seem as though the average visitor here was...more mature. I think it's sweet, seeing couples who have shared so many years together.

Robin
I hope we're still sneaking off on little trips like that when we're old and gray.

Lucina
Yes... ......

Robin
What's wrong?

Lucina
Do you suppose we'll really be able to stay together that long?

Robin
What? Why wouldn't we?

Lucina
Well, once peace is won, I'll have to try to return to my own time. ...Even if that turns out to be impossible, though, I can't remain by my father's side. But you're his tactician. His chief advisor. I don't see how our paths won't part...

Robin
Lucina.

Lucina
And I've been charged with saving the world above all else. If, Naga forbid, I should ever have to choose between you and that mission... I couldn't allow my heart to turn me from what must be done. What right has a wife to be with her husband when she cannot put him first?

Robin
She has every right. That's who she is—who YOU are. When we swore our oaths to one another, what did we promise? That Chrom and I would support you with all our might so you could fulfill your duty.

Lucina
But...

Robin
It's all right, Lucina. No matter what you choose, or where you go, I'll be right there by your side. I promise you again, here and now. I'll stay with you and support you for all my life. And even then! If I'm killed, I'll find a way to come back. Just watch me!

Lucina
Don't promise such things!

Robin
It's the job of a crack tactician to work miracles, isn't it? To do the impossible!

Lucina
But— ...Pffft, ha ha ha!

Robin
Wh-what? What's so funny?

Lucina
No, it's just... You're just so desperate to cheer me up. It's sweet. I fear I have a tendency to dwell on the negative and imagine the worst. I'm fortunate to have been blessed with such a legendarily optimistic husband.

Robin
Heh. You're welcome?

Lucina
Thank you, Robin. I feel a weight has been lifted from me.

Robin
...... Lucina.

Lucina
Yes?

Robin
I'll do anything it takes to see that your future is a happy one. I just...need you to know that.

Lucina
Robin, I— Mmmph!

Robin
......

Lucina
Robin, this is no place for...

Robin
I know, and I'm sorry. No... No, I'm not. I needed to share how I felt, and that was the only way. It may not be very befitting a tactician to lose control like that, but I'm a man first.

Lucina
Just don't let my father see you.

Robin
Gah! I didn't even think... Do you think he might have?!

Lucina
I'm kidding, dear. It was only for a moment. No one saw. ...And I'm glad you did it. I am a woman first, after all. And your way of sharing your feelings was very...effective. Though I may require a repeat performance once the battle's over.

Robin
Heh. Umm, sure...I think I can arrange that.

Lucina
Lovely. Thank you.

Robin
*Ahem* I, uh, I'd best be getting back to the battle now. You be careful, okay?

Lucina
You too. ...... Forgive me, Robin... Until this war is won, I cannot put you above all else. But I hope you understand how precious you are to me. I don't say it nearly enough... But I love you with all my heart. I would consider myself the luckiest woman alive were I able to grow old with you. You're the dearest thing to me in this world, and my greatest reason to save it... My one and only love...

Avatar > Owain

Owain
The steam, a veil of ghostly white. Trees, a riot of fiery crimson... My heart burns with a longing for home in the face of this nostalgic idyll.

Robin
Hey, Owain. I'm about to make a sweep of the area. Care to join m—

Owain
No doubt that parched world cries out in anger and sadness at our abandonment. Heh... It would seem some sliver of frail human sentimentality yet lives in my breast.

Robin
Uh, am I interrupting? Because if so... HEY! OWAIN!

Owain
Waugh?! Wha— Robin?! S-sorry. Did you have some need of me?

Robin
I came to talk strategy. Will you help me take care of the Risen in this area?

Owain
Yes, of course! Onward, friend! We strike at once!

Robin
No, we don't. Hold a minute, Owain.

Owain
Huh?

Robin
It's too dangerous to rush them head-on. I'll brief you on the assault strategy I've prepared.

Owain
Assault strategies? Briefings?! This...is...AWESOME! Blood...raging! So! What are my directives?

Robin
I'll have you stand by, concealed in the shadows of that edifice there. I'll serve as a lure to draw them near, then you leap out and strike them from behind.

Owain
You're giving me the juicy part?! At...at long last, the vast power hidden with me has been acknowledged! Understood! I will see to it your words are made fact. You shall be made a prophet! Henceforth, this operation shall be known as Code Bloodleaf Shadowstalker!

Robin
...What?

Owain
Now, to get into place. Formation Missing Link is go! You see, the missing link is between us. They won't think we're working together... But we ARE!

Robin
Yes, that's...that's wonderful, Owain.

Owain
Rragh! My sword arm is writhing! Straining against my iron will! Thirsty for action! Yet if I indulge its destructive appetite now, Code Bloodleaf etc. will be compromised! Be calm, arm! Soon... Soon you will have your fill! So for now, be calm!

Robin
Rgh, no! The Risen have heard us! Change of plans, Owain.

Owain
What?! B-but Code Bloodleaf! Well...so be it. My blade is ever at your command. I await your next strategy!

Robin
No strategy. Now that they've spotted us, we'll have to try our luck head-on.

Owain
Whaaat?! But that's so much less awesome! Why don't we— Hey, wait! You said it was too dangerous to charge in alone! At least let me take the vanguard! Um, the rear guard? ...Honorable mention?! Don't leave meee!

Owain > Robin

Owain
They were a fearsome adversary. For a brief moment's time, I was tempted to unleash my true power...

Robin
Hey, Owain?

Owain
Ah! Yes? Ready to discuss our next strategy?

Robin
Oh, no. It's actually something I've been wanting to ask you about for a while. Why do you always speak like you're delivering lines in a stage play?

Owain
This is no mere act, my friend. No part of hollow deception... This is my true self. Aye, when the power hidden within me surges, it erupts forth in prophetic speech.

Robin
Er, right. Of course... And what is this hidden power exactly? I guess you are of the exalted bloodline, so it's entirely possible you've got something.

Owain
Y-yes, of course... Were I to bring my full force to bear, it would surpass even that of my uncle...

Robin
Wow, really?! I had no idea!

Owain
......

Robin
Um, Owain?

Owain
...... ...Not really, no. That was actually a lie. I'm sorry, Robin. I know perfectly well I don't have any special power... Uncle Chrom and Lucina are fit to bend the world to their whims, and I've got nothing.

Robin
What?! Owain, that's not...

Owain
But I'd do anything to be like them. Every time I watched someone die in that world, I thought that. I begged and prayed. In the end, I thought maybe if I started acting like it were true, then maybe...

Robin
I see. So that's your reason...

Owain
You're welcome to laugh, Robin. But that sort of senseless hope was the only way to survive in that world.

Robin
I would never laugh! No one would after hearing that story!

Owain
Robin...

Robin
So you don't have any mystical power or hidden secret. You still crossed time as one of a chosen few to wage a war to save the world!

Owain
......

Robin
So you should feel—

Owain
A chosen few... Crossing time to...save the world...

Robin
Er, you all right?

Owain
You...you're right! This whole time, I'd been describing myself in those terms... But I never had someone else validate them. I think I'd begun to lose confidence... But I AM a chosen warrior, fated to spare the world from its cruel fate! I knew it! Heh... Thank you, Robin! I feel ready to take on the entire cosmos!

Robin
What, already? I barely said anything... W-well, so much the better? Besides, I probably should have seen that coming.

Owain
Ah! Robin!

Robin
Wh-what now?

Owain
Rejoice, my genius compatriot, for yonder lurks a pack of Risen. The time to recommence the late Operation Bloodleaf Shadowstalker is nigh!

Robin
Um, Owain? I'm really glad you're feeling better, and I'm sure the future was bleak and all... But I KNOW you're doing that just because you think it makes you sound impressive...

Avatar > Owain (child)

Owain
The steam, a veil of ghostly white. Trees, a riot of fiery crimson... My heart burns with a longing for home in the face of this nostalgic idyll.

Robin
I'm about to make a sweep of the area, Owain. Come and join m—

Owain
No doubt that parched world cries out in anger and sadness at our abandonment. Heh... It would seem some sliver of frail human sentimentality yet lives in my breast.

Robin
Seems I'm interrupting. In that case... HEY! OWAIN!

Owain
Waugh?! Wha— Father?! S-sorry. Did you have some need of me?

Robin
I came to talk strategy. Will you help me take care of the Risen in this area?

Owain
Yes, of course! It would be an honor to assist you, Father! We strike at once!

Robin
No, we don't. Hold a minute, Owain.

Owain
Huh?

Robin
It's too dangerous to rush them head-on. I'll brief you on the assault strategy I've prepared.

Owain
Assault strategies? Briefings?! This...is....AWESOME! Blood...raging! Leave it to my old man, legendary tactician and sire of the world's last hope! So! What are my directives?

Robin
I'll have you stand by, concealed in the shadows of that edifice there. I'll serve as a lure to draw them near, then you leap out and strike them from behind.

Owain
You're giving me the juicy part?! At...at long last, you've acknowledged the vast power hidden within your son! Understood! I will see to it your words are made fact. You shall be made a prophet! Henceforth, this operation shall be known as Code Bloodleaf Shadowstalker!

Robin
...What?

Owain
Now, to get into place. Formation Missing Link is go! You see, the missing link is between us. They won't think we're working together... But we ARE!

Robin
Yes, that's...that's wonderful, Owain.

Owain
Rragh! My sword arm is writhing! Straining against my iron will, thirsty for action! Yet if I indulge its destructive appetite now, Code Bloodleaf etc. will be compromised! Be calm, arm! Soon... Soon you will have your fill! So for now, be calm!

Robin
Rgh, no! The Risen have heard us! Change of plans, Owain.

Owain
What?! B-but Code Bloodleaf! Well...so be it. My blade is ever at your command. I await your next strategy!

Robin
No strategy. Now that they've spotted us, we'll have to try our luck head-on.

Owain
Whaaat?! But that's so much less awesome! Why don't we— Hey, wait! You said it was too dangerous to charge in alone! At least let me join the vanguard! Um, the rear guard? ...Honorable mention?! Father! Don't leave meee!

Owain > Avatar

Owain
They were a fearsome adversary. For a brief moment's time, I was tempted to unleash my true power...

Robin
Hey, Owain?

Owain
Ah! Yes? Ready to discuss our next strategy?

Robin
Oh, no. It's actually something I've been wanting to ask you about for a while. Why do you always speak like you're delivering lines in a stage play?

Owain
This is no mere act, Father. No part or hollow deception... This is my true self. Aye, when the power hidden within me surges, it erupts forth in prophetic speech.

Robin
Er, right. Of course... And what is this hidden power exactly? I guess you are of the exalted bloodline, so it's entirely possible you've got something.

Owain
Y-yes, of course... Were I to bring my full force to bear, it would surpass even that of my uncle...

Robin
Wow, really?! I had no idea! Your mother will be thrilled to hear it. I'll have to speak with her once we're done.

Owain
......

Robin
Um, Owain?

Owain
...... ...I lied. Please don't tell Mother. I'm sorry, Father. I know perfectly well I don't have any special power... Uncle Chrom and Lucina are fit to bend the world to their whims, and I've got nothing...

Robin
What?! Owain, that's not...

Owain
But I'd do anything to be like them. Any time I saw someone die in that world...when Mother was killed...I thought that. When you died, it fell to me to protect her, and I failed... I wasn't strong enough. So I begged and prayed for strength. In the end, I thought maybe if I started acting like I had some power, then maybe...

Robin
I see. So that's your reason...

Owain
You're welcome to laugh at your fool son. But that sort of senseless hope was the only way to survive in that world. It was either believe I was special or give up on living altogether.

Robin
I would never laugh! No one would after hearing that story! And if anyone dared to, your father would knock them senseless! I'm incredibly proud to call you my son, Owain.

Owain
Father...

Robin
So you don't have any mystical power or hidden secret. You still crossed time as one of a chosen few to wage a war to save the world!

Owain
......

Robin
So you should feel—

Owain
A chosen few... Crossing time to...save the world...

Robin
Er, you all right?

Owain
You...you're right! This whole time I'd been describing myself in those terms, but I never had someone else validate them. I think I'd begun to lose confidence... But I AM a chosen warrior, fated to spare the world from its cruel fate! I knew it! Heh... Thank you, Father! I feel ready to take on the entire cosmos!

Robin
What, already? I just barely said anything... W-well, so much the better? Besides, I probably should have seen that coming. Nothing keeps you down for long. You get that from your mother.

Owain
Ah! Father!

Robin
Wh-what now?

Owain
Rejoice, my genius patriarch, for yonder lurks a pack of Risen. The time to recommence the late Operation Bloodleaf Shadowstalker is nigh!

Robin
Heh... All right. Then come, my knightly son! The hour has come to see inspiration give way to action! But the foe we face is powerful. If you wish it, I shall draft us an even better stratagem!

Owain
...Yeesh, what was that supposed to be? I sound way less goofy than that. But...thanks, Father.

Avatar > Owain (spouse)

Owain
Heh... Even the obscuring vapors of the springs cannot quench this gemstone's fire. I knew it for a worthy tribute in an instant. A treasure suited to adorn my treasure...

Robin
What are you up to, Owain?

Owain
Hah! My beloved wife and she who binds the power of two times together! No doubt it was the stone's otherworldly sparkle that summoned you hither? Heh... I ought have known such a riotous spectacle would catch your keen eye.

Robin
Ah, I interrupted bath time, did I? Sorry, dear. You have fun.

Owain
Gah, wait! Robin, come back! I just took a peek at some of the shops here, and I found this amazing necklace. I couldn't help myself, so I snatched it up.

Robin
You were souvenir shopping during combat? Well, no use worrying about it now, I suppose. So tell me about this necklace.

Owain
Heh heh... Sparked your curiosity into a towering blaze, have I? Then hark! It bears a glimmering sheen fit to shame the lustrous pinions of the bird of paradise. Its design is so inspired, it is less a work of man than aught revealed by the very gods!

Robin
That's nice, honey. Um, is this going to take a while?

Owain
What? No, I'm nearly done. By which I mean: here, have a look for yourself! ...Ta-da! Behold, my beauteous spouse! Well, what do you think? Pretty great, huh?

Robin
W-wow, dear... Pegasus wings, wrapped in roses, wrapped in chains and...more chains. And for a souvenir, it deftly manages to avoid any reference to the springs whatever. It's a very, er...unique choice.

Owain
Right?! I'm glad to hear you singing its praises.

Robin
Not praises so much as the opposite of praises, but yes.

Owain
So confident was I that you would absolutely love it, in fact, that... Ta-da-da-daaa! Behold! I bought you the ladies' version!

Robin
A matched set?!

Owain
Just so, my love! They shall hang about our throats, mirror images in their elegance. And through them, our hearts shall be even more a perfect mirror. The truest pair! They shall stand as a symbol of our oaths, everlasting proof of a love beyond time!

Robin
Y-yes... They're lovely... Thank you... I'll lock mine away safe and sound and privately treasure it always.

Owain
What? Such a sparkling gem deserves the light of the sun! Let us wear them together!

Robin
Yes, I'll...I'll take that into careful consideration, dear. For now, I'll just get back to slaying Risen. You get back to the front lines too, honey.

Owain
What? Hey! Robin?! What would drive you to leave your loving husband behind so? ...Ahh, yes, You're overcome! Cheeks ablush with joy! Oh, my bride, you are adorable!

Owain > Avatar

Owain
Why have you not donned your necklace, Robin? There's no call for sheepishness. Ours is a love worth shouting from the mountaintops. Let everyone see our bond!

Robin
Urk... Y-yes, well... I'm sorry, Owain. It was very sweet of you, but I just don't think I can wear that.

Owain
Huh? Why not?

Robin
Because it's hideo—er, I-I'm afraid it's just not quite my style.

Owain
What?! Y-you don't like it...?

Robin
I'm sorry, dear... Truly, it was a lovely thought.

Owain
N-no, it's...it's nothing to apologize for. I see... No, I ought to have known. Absent the goddess's blessing, even an epic treasure is a bauble lost to history's great—

Robin
Owain! Snap out of it! our theatrical affect is taking over again!

Owain
...Waugh?! Wh-what just...? Oh. Oh, yes... Apologies. I wandered off a bit there. *Sigh* But the necklace is a bust, is it? I was hoping it would serve as a stand-in for a ring for a while, but so it goes...

Robin
A ring?

Owain
Well, yes. We're married, but you still don't have a proper wedding ring. ...Because I'm too poor to afford one. I was hoping this might serve in its place until I could.

Robin
What?! Oh, dear, I am so sorry! I had no idea! I...I'll wear it! I'm putting it on right now! Who cares about the design? Like you say, we should be celebrating our bond!

Owain
You don't have to do that, Robin. We can wait to match until we've got two gold bands. I'm not sure when that'll be, but you'll have to come with me to pick them out.

Robin
Oh, Owain... I'd be happy to. Thank you, dear.

Owain
I'll keep tucking away the money I find along the road and any change from errands.

Robin
Aww, you're saving up? That's so sweet. And a little surprising, to be honest. You tend to surprise me often lately. I guess that means I still don't know you as well as I imagined I do.

Owain
And I think this business with the necklace proves I don't know you that well, either. But we have all the time in the world from here on to teach each other.

Robin
That we do. ...Though I fear I know little more about myself than you. My birthplace, my mother's face, childhood memories... All a blank. It frightens me at times, Owain. I fear the memory of all the times I've spent with you will desert me too...

Owain
Robin...

Robin
Heh, sorry. I didn't mean to darken the mood.

Owain
Don't hide behind your smile. If you're afraid, say so.

Robin
O-Owain, you're squeezing me awfully tight. I don't— Mmmph?! ......

Owain
......

Robin
Owain... This is hardly the place for a kiss...

Owain
I needed to tell you you'll be all right, and the words weren't enough. I'll keep your memories safe. I'll stay by your side, memorizing each and every one.

Robin
Owain!

Owain
So don't ever hide what you're feeling. Tell me everything. I'll be here, listening. Your favorite color, favorite meal, favorite season. Your favorite words and phrases. I'll memorize the lot of it. And no matter how many times you forget, I'll be here to remind you, every time.

Robin
Owain... Thank you.

Owain
Feel a little less scared?

Robin
A lot less. So, um...it's safe to let go now. The others are starting to stare...

Owain
What? ...Oh, right. Ack! What am I doing?! We're in the middle of combat!

Robin
Well, no use wailing about it now. We can kick ourselves for it later. Together.

Owain
You'd free up time in your schedule for me?

Robin
Of course, silly. You're my husband.

Owain
Then...after the battle, and a nice, long bath, and after we eat dinner...you think maybe we could spend some time together, just the two of us?

Robin
I think I'd like that very much.

Owain
Yesss! Heh... With that decided, we've no cause to stay our blades further. Be forewarned, minions of evil! You face Owain, crosser of worlds! Your ruin is nigh! ...All right, honey, I'm off. I'll see you tonight! I love you, Robin!

Robin
Owain, shh! No need to shout that! People are already staring... Honestly, what am I going to do with him? He's a mad fool, and totally inscrutable... But still... I love you too. My chosen warrior, come from beyond the rift to ransom peace beside his beloved. ...Hee hee.

Avatar > Inigo

Inigo
Hrm... Nothing. There's nothing good!

Robin
Looking for something, Inigo?

Inigo
Oh! Hello, Robin! I was just searching for a memento.

Robin
A memento?

Inigo
Yes. Some little token or trinket to remind you of the places you've been. Seashells from the shore, that sort of thing. Wherever I go, I try to find some souvenir to keep the memory fresh whenever I see it.

Robin
What a charming idea.

Inigo
Heh heh. Credit goes to my mother. It's a habit I picked up from her.

Robin
Lovelier still, then. So what have you found to keep the springs fresh in mind?

Inigo
Absolutely nothing! At first, I thought to collect up some of these red leaves. But unless I keep them pressed in a book or the like, they'd be shredded in days. Anything I take will be jostled around in a pack on the road. I'd prefer it were durable.

Robin
Ah, a good point. What about some springwater, then? That CAN'T break.

Inigo
...Is that a joke, Robin? You'd have me haul a skin of springwater everywhere I go for the rest of the war? Sloshing away as we march the roads? In combat?! Does that sound like fun to you?

Robin
...No, it doesn't.

Inigo
No! It doesn't! Yeesh, I'm mortified just imagining it. ...Besides, I already have thought of that, and I don't have any empty skins.

Robin
But you thought of it!

Inigo
Ha ha ha. Well, sure. It's the most obvious thing to pick, isn't it? I also tried to shave a few shards off of some of these giant rocks.

Robin
Oh?

Inigo
But they're awfully hard.

Robin
Er, yes, well... Boulders are like that. I'm impressed the thought even crossed your mind to try.

Inigo
Didn't do me much good. I'm this close to conceding defeat. Maybe I'll just settle for a little chunk of a Risen or something...

Robin
What?! Ew! No! Augh! Besides, is THAT the memory of this place you want to keep? There's got to be SOMETHING better than that. Let's keep looking, yeah?

Inigo
All right... I'll think on it as I fight.

Inigo > Avatar

Inigo
Robin!

Robin
Hm? Oh, hey, Inigo. Did you find your memento?

Inigo
I think so! There was a pebble in the shallows. It has a purplish hue that really evokes the springs and foliage. I think it's perfect!

Robin
It's lovely. I'm glad you were able to find something.

Inigo
Me too! I'll not forget this trip as long as I have this. I'll treasure it. Always...

Robin
Oh...? I didn't realize these mementos meant quite so much to you, Inigo.

Inigo
They do. Well, not the mementos so much as the memories behind them. I'm still rather shy on fun memories, you see... The future wasn't exactly a happy place. Even after coming here, the stretch of time before I met up with you all was... difficult.

Robin
Y-yes... Of course.

Inigo
Plus, once peace is won, that's it. Whether we're able to return to a spared future or not, it will still mean good-bye. I'm eager to tuck away all the good memories I can before that happens.

Robin
What do you mean it's good-bye even if you can't return?

Inigo
It won't be much longer till I'm born in this world. The real me, I mean. I have no place beside him. It wouldn't be right. That puts a pretty tight limit on the time I have together with you all. Heh. It's going to be awfully quiet...

Robin
Inigo...

Inigo
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to ramble on. I'll be just fine. I've got this stone! I'm sure it'll see me through any lonely night, I'm sure. Really, I'm just happy I was able to find something!

Robin
...... Can I see it for a moment? The stone.

Inigo
Hm? Oh, sure. Here you go.

Robin
HNNRAGH!

Inigo
Whaaat?! D-did you just...? What, is this some new game where you make me go fetch my prized possessions?

Robin
That's no prize, Inigo! You don't need it.

Inigo
I'm sorry?!

Robin
You think you can lock away all your happy memories in a rock and stew in solitude? If so, I think you need to think again!

Inigo
Robin, that isn't your—

Robin
If you feel lonely, or if you want to see us, then just do it—come and see us! If time or circumstances ever split us up, it's our job to come back together again.

Inigo
Robin...

Robin
Or what? You think we'd treat you like some kind of inconvenience? Some burden? Is that the sort of people you think we are? That the bonds we share are that flimsy?

Inigo
I don't think that. I don't think either of those things! I could never feel that way about any of you...

Robin
Then it's simple, isn't it? You can come back to us whenever you like. And don't ever talk about making memories "while you still can." We've an amazing future ahead of us, full of all kinds of fun experiences. In fact, it's our responsibility to MAKE that future! That's why you came here, isn't it?

Inigo
...... ...It is. You're right, obviously. I shouldn't be thinking about bottling up my happiness to drown out my sorrows later. I should be making memories as a record of how we built a future where I can be happy! All right. Seems like we've got our work cut out for us... For starters, we'll have to make the most of these springs after the battle's through! You'll join me, won't you, Robin?

Robin
You couldn't stop me if you tried. After all, no one needs a set of happy new memories more than me!

Inigo
Ha ha, true! And thank you. Even if our paths should part someday, I feel as if today's memories will keep me... I'll be able to live with a smile, knowing I was able to share in all this with all of you. But...if I still get lonely from time to time, I'll come knocking on your door. I hope that whenever that is, no matter how many times it happens, you'll let me in. ...That you'll be there to say "welcome home."

Avatar > Inigo (child)

Inigo
Hrm... Nothing. There's nothing good!

Robin
Looking for something, Inigo?

Inigo
Oh! Hello, Father. I was just searching for a memento.

Robin
A memento?

Inigo
Yes. Some little token or trinket to remind you of the places you've been. Seashells from the shore, that sort of thing. Wherever I go, I try to find some souvenir to keep the memory fresh whenever I see it.

Robin
What a charming idea. I seem to recall your mother saying something similar before. Is this something you picked up from her?

Inigo
Heh, yes. And why am I not surprised that you knew about it? You two were always so cute.

Robin
What can I say? So what have you found?

Inigo
Absolutely nothing! At first, I thought to collect up some of these red leaves. But unless I keep them pressed in a book or the like, they'd be shredded in days. Anything I take will be jostled around in a pack on the road. I'd prefer it were durable.

Robin
Ah, a good point. What about some springwater, then? That CAN'T break.

Inigo
...Is that a joke, Father? You'd have me haul a skin of springwater everywhere I go for the rest of the war? Sloshing away as we march the roads? In combat?! Does that sound like fun to you?

Robin
...No, it doesn't.

Inigo
No! It doesn't! I'd be the son of our army's tactician and its biggest laughing stock. Yeesh. I'm mortified just imagining it. ...Besides, I already thought of that, and I don't have any empty skins.

Robin
But you thought of it!

Inigo
Ha ha ha. Well, sure. It's the most obvious thing to pick, isn't it? I also tried to shave a few shards off of some of these giant rocks.

Robin
Oh?

Inigo
But they're awfully hard.

Robin
Er, yes, well... Boulders are like that. I'm impressed the thought even crossed your mind to try.

Inigo
Didn't do me much good. I'm this close to conceding defeat. Maybe I'll just settle for a little chunk of a Risen or something...

Robin
What? Ew! No! Augh! Besides, your mother would burst into tears at the sight! There's got to be SOMETHING better than that. Let's keep looking, yeah?

Inigo
All right... I'll think on it as I fight. And thank you for helping, Father.

Inigo > Avatar

Inigo
Father!

Robin
Hm? Oh, hey, Inigo. Did you find your memento?

Inigo
I think so! There was a pebble in the shallows. It has a purplish hue that really evokes the springs and foliage. I think it's perfect!

Robin
It's lovely. I'm glad you were able to find something.

Inigo
Me too! I'll not forget this trip as long as I have this. I'll treasure it. Always...

Robin
Oh...? I didn't realize these mementos meant quite so much to you, Inigo.

Inigo
They do. Well, not the mementos so much as the memories behind them. I'm still rather shy on fun memories, you see... The future wasn't exactly a happy place. Even after coming here, the stretch of time before I met up with you all was...difficult.

Robin
Y-yes... Of course.

Inigo
Plus, once peace is won, that's it. Whether I can return to the future or not, it will still mean good-bye to you and Mother. I'm eager to tuck away all the good memories I can before that happens.

Robin
What do you mean it's good-bye even if you can't return?

Inigo
It won't be much longer till I'm born in this world. The real me, I mean. I have no place beside him. Who knows what sort of influence it might have... It wouldn't be right. Which puts a pretty tight limit on the time I have together with you two. Heh, it's going to get awfully quiet...

Robin
Inigo...

Inigo
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to ramble on. I'll be just fine. I've got this stone! I'm sure it'll see me through any lonely nights when I get to missing you. Really, I'm just happy I was able to find something!

Robin
...... Can I see it for a moment? The stone.

Inigo
Hm? Oh, sure. Here you go.

Robin
HNNRAGH!

Inigo
Whaaat?! D-did you just...? What, is this some new game where you make me go fetch my prized possessions?

Robin
That's no prize, Inigo! You don't need it.

Inigo
I'm sorry?!

Robin
You think you can lock away all your happy memories in a rock and stew in solitude? If so, I think you need to think again!

Inigo
Father, that isn't your—

Robin
If you feel lonely, or if you want to see us, then just do it—come and see us! If time or circumstances ever split us up, it's our job to come back together again.

Inigo
Father...

Robin
Or what? You think we'd treat you like some kind of inconvenience? Some burden? Is that the sort of parents you think we are? That the bonds we share are that flimsy?

Inigo
I don't think that. I don't think either of those things! I could never feel that way about you two...

Robin
Then it's simple, isn't it? You can come back to us whenever you like. And don't ever talk about making memories "while you still can." We've an amazing future ahead of us, full of all kinds of fun experiences. In fact, it's our responsibility to MAKE that future for our family. AS a family! That's why you came here. Isn't it?

Inigo
...... ...It is. You're right, obviously. I shouldn't be thinking about bottling up my happiness to drown out my sorrows later. I should be making memories as a record of how we built a future where I can be happy! All right. Seems like we've got our work cut out for us... For starters, we'll have to make the most of these springs after the battle's through! You'll join me, won't you?

Robin
You couldn't stop me if you tried. You can even let your old man scrub your back. ...Considering I'll be bathing you in a few years, this can be a practice run.

Inigo
Ha ha, true! And thank you, even if that is a touch weird... Um, Father? Even if our paths should part someday, I feel as if today's memories will keep me... I'll be able to live with a smile, knowing I got to share in all this with you and Mother. But...if I still get lonely from time to time, I'll come knocking on your door. I hope that whenever that is, no matter how many times it happens, you'll let me in. ...That you'll be there to say "welcome home."

Avatar > Inigo (spouse)

Inigo
Robin! Are you free a moment?

Robin
Why? Did you need something?

Inigo
Hm? Do I need a reason to want to see you? We're at a hot spring, after all. I thought it a fitting place for some quality spouse time.

Robin
I suppose it is. So what do you propose? A little dip in the mixed bath?

Inigo
M-mixed bath...

Robin
Just kidding, dear. ...Hm? Inigo?

Inigo
I don't think... If anyone saw us, I would be so embarrassed. I just don't know...

Robin
What? I told you I was only joking! Seeing you blush is going to make me all embarrassed too...

Inigo
R-right, a joke. Of course... Even more than being seen, I'd be afraid of what you might do to me in a bath...

Robin
And just what is that supposed to mean?

Inigo
D-don't get angry, darling! But baths aside, I'm all for the two of us going somewhere once combat ends. We could take in the scenery, maybe browse the shops for a nice memento. Er, that's if you wanted to, of course.

Robin
Of course I'd like to. I would never turn down an invitation to spend time with you.

Inigo
Wonderful! Thank you, my love. It's a date, then. I can't wait!

Robin
H-hey! Let go, Inigo! We're in the middle of a battle here!

Inigo
Ha ha, indulge me one quick embrace. Battle or no, you're my wife. ...Mmm, you smell nice. Is that the perfume I gave you? I'm happy to see you're wearing it.

Robin
Well, sure... It was a gift from you. Of course I'm going to— *AHEM* Enough of that! Back to battle! Let go of me already!

Inigo
Aww. But as long as I have you in my arms, I can keep you safe from the big, nasty Risen.

Robin
By immobilizing both of us and pinning my arms? Look, we can snuggle as much as you like later. For now, control yourself.

Inigo
Yes, ma'am...

Robin
Good boy. Now, I'm off to field that area over there.

Inigo
What, by that little structure?

Robin
Yes...?

Inigo
Hmm, better not. Why don't you let me handle that, and you can take that direction instead.

Robin
All right. If you say so, that's fine with me. You be careful now, dear.

Inigo
I will! You do the same, Robin. ...... ...... What?! That Risen is gone! Where... Rgh... This is bad.

Inigo > Avatar

Inigo
There you are, you slippery beast. Should've guessed you'd be hiding in the shadows... To no avail, I'm afraid. I'll just sneak up behind you, and...

Robin
Oh, Inigo! All finished cleaning up the area?

Inigo
Wha—? Robin?! Shhh! Stay down! Rgh, he's seen us! Robin! I need you at my side, NOW!

Robin
What?! Inigo!

Inigo
I'm sorry, but hold still! I can't let you go just now, dear!

Robin
Gah! You're squeezing the life out of me! L-let me go! Inigo, please! This isn't funny! Inigo, let g—

Inigo
Gwaugh!

Robin
INIGO!

Inigo
Finally come out to make your move, eh? Well, I'm sorry, but...it was your last! ...Hraaagh!

Risen Gwaaargh!

Inigo
Phew... Good. He's had his sights on you for a while now. But he didn't see that coming, did he? Heh heh... Sorry for grabbing you like that.

Robin
No! I didn't... Thank you, Inigo. ......

Inigo
Robin? What's wrong?

Robin
I'm sorry... You were protecting me, and I didn't even notice.. I even got you hurt! *Sniff* I didn't...

Inigo
Ack! Don't cry, please! Shhh, it's all right. I'm fine! S-see? This is just a scratch. Really! I'll pull through just fine. Now, come on. Smile.

Robin
How can I smile? I'm a failure as a tactician AND a wife...

Inigo
That's not true, Robin. Heh, look at you. Your cheeks are soaked now. Hold still a minute...

Robin
Huh? ...Ah!

Inigo
...... ...Heh heh. You taste salty.

Robin
Inigo... A lick?! Where did that come from? I think you surprised the tears away...

Inigo
Then my brilliant plan was a success. You're not the only cunning one in this marriage. And you know I'd do absolutely anything to see you smile.

Robin
Anything, huh? So if I asked you to say you love me...?

Inigo
What? Er, yes, well... Words are so trite. Why don't I express my affections through dance? I'll come up with a new routine, just for you.

Robin
What? Why?! You used to go professing your love to girls you'd barely met! Why can't you say it to your wife?

Inigo
Owww, ow ow ow! Give! I give! Ease up on the headlock! It's just... When you actually really love someone, words don't seem like enough.

Robin
What?

Inigo
Look, it's embarrassing to say it out loud, but I... I love you so much it hurts, all right?!

Robin
Inigo... I see. All right, then. I'll let you off the hook with another of what you did before. But this time, on the lips.

Inigo
What I did be— Wait, what?! Er, but we're... Don't you think that sort of thing is best saved for a more appropriate setting?

Robin
Oh, please. If you're too chicken to go for it, I will!

Inigo
What?! Robin, wait a— Mmmph!

Robin
...... Hee hee. All right, maybe that was a little embarrassing.

Inigo
Boy oh boy... You're unbelievable. As usual, I can barely keep up.

Robin
Since when was it a race?

Inigo
Since the start.

Robin
Oh?

Inigo
You've always charged on ahead, forging your own path with me trailing after. Back when we first met, I was desperate to catch up, then desperate to keep up... But now that I've got you, I need to make sure I don't slack off.

Robin
Oh, I'm afraid you're stuck with me now. You couldn't lose me if you tried.

Inigo
Well, thank you. But the rest of our lives is a long time. If my goal is to keep you happy, I'd best get cracking. You'd better watch out, because I aim to have you positively addicted to me. And forget about feeling bashful. I love you, Robin. I'll say it a million times. Right now, right here, and for the rest of our lives, I love you.

Avatar > Severa

Severa
Mmm, this steam feels incredible! AND it's good for the complexion? This place is too good to be true.

Robin
Severa, what are you doing?

Severa
Ooh, perfect timing, Robin! Check out this spring. Its water are supposed to work miracles for your skin!

Robin
Oh yeah?

Severa
Yup! Just one soak, and you'll be smooth as a baby's butt! You should give it a try, Robin. Here, I'll waft some of this steam at you.

Robin
Er, thanks, Severa, but this isn't really the time. We're in the heat of battle here!

Severa
Oh, a few minutes won't hurt anyone. Besides, I don't see any Risen around.

Robin
Yes, which probably means they're hiding. You can spend as long as you like in the baths after this. Try to focus for now?

Severa
Gawds, all right, all right. Fine. Can I at least dip my hand in for a minute? It's colder than you'd think out here, and my grip is starting to suffer...

Robin
Sure, I think we can spare one minute.

Severa
Woo! Hot spring, here I come! ...Wooow, it's sooo waaarm! Aaaah, I can't get over how good it feels! Oh, my achy knuckles! My poor joints have never felt better! I feel alive again!

Robin
You sound like an old man...

Severa
Who cares? It's not like there's anyone around but you to hear me.

Robin
What's THAT supposed to mean?

Severa
...AIEEEEEEEEE!

Robin
What's wrong?! Risen lurking in the water?!

Severa
My hand is so smooth!

Robin
Huh?

Severa
SO SMOOTH. MY HAND! Look! I just soaked the right one, and my left hasn't touched the water. Look how rosy my weapon hand is! How perfectly soft and supple it's become!

Robin
Uh, yes, very impressive. Not worth the heart attack you just gave me, but great. Though it's hardly a miracle for hot water to improve circulation and rinse away dirt.

Severa
If a quick dip of the fingers does this much, just imagine a full-body soak...

Robin
Severa... Please don't jump in. Please, please don't jump in. Don't. Do. It.

Severa
......

Robin
SEVERA!

Severa
Hwuh?! O-oh... Robin. D-don't be silly. I would never dream of jumping in fully clothed! Sure, I want my skin looking beautiful, but not at the expense of my clothes! Anyway, we'd better get back to the fight. Don't make me leave you behind!

Robin
Hurricane Severa sweeps through again...

Severa > Avatar

Severa
Robin... You have anything I could use to dry off?

Robin
Gah, what happened, Severa? You're drenched! You didn't actually...

Severa
No, I did NOT jump in! Show me the girl who wants to leap into a pool fully clothed! ...I slipped. A pack of Risen flanked me out of nowhere, I got startled, and I slipped...

Robin
Well, I'm glad you're only soaked, then. Hold on, I'll get you a cloth.

Severa
That'd be great, thanks. And please. I left the lot of them floating facedown in the water. Trust me, I made sure they got what they deserved.

Robin
Hah! That's our Severa.

Severa
Amazing, aren't I? *Sigh* But if I'm going to fall into a spring, it could at least be one good for my skin... Instead, I wound up dunked in a pool meant to help backaches and stiff shoulders! Between that and my pruned fingers, I feel like an old lady...

Robin
Hah! That's kind of ridiculous.

Severa
It is, isn't it? Hee hee... Totally...completely...*sniff*...r-ridicu...*sniff*...lous... *Sniff* Oh, gods... *sob* Waaaaaaaaah!

Robin
Severa?! What's wrong? Are you hurt?

Severa
N-no, I'm just.... I'm just... *wheeze* I'm just so HAPPY!

Robin
Huh?

Severa
I mean, think about it. *sniff* We're fighting off hordes of monsters, yet we're cracking up over a silly spring? There was never any laughing like this in the future. Ever. I like to think I haven't gone totally soft since coming to this era, but still... *sniff* Back then, you always had to wonder if you wouldn't be better off dead. Every time a battle ended, you knew there was nothing but more bleakness ahead. There was never any talk about "after this battle" or "after the war."

Robin
That sounds more hopeless than I can possibly imagine...

Severa
But here, we're all abuzz about what fun plans we have waiting for us, you know? Soaking in the springs... Taking in the sights... Going shopping for souvenirs... It seems so unreal. We didn't dare to dream about that sort of thing back in our time. But it's waiting for us. Actual free time. No one to bury. No new battle to prepare for. It's ours to do whatever we want with. And that idea just... It made me so happy. I...

Robin
...... Life has thrown so much at you, Severa, but look at you. You're still standing strong. After all that hard work and perseverance, I'd say you've earned one heck of a day off.

Severa
I...I should hope so... All right, it's settled, then. After this, I'm headed straight to that bath, and I'm not leaving till I'm positively aglow!

Robin
That's the spirit. Though I'd say you're already glowing pretty bright as it is.

Severa
Wha—?! C-cut that out... You don't need to make stuff up...

Robin
Hey, I just said what I thought. That's all.

Severa
W-well, flattery will get you nowhere! Anyway, here's your cloth back. No more chatter. I want as much time in those springs as possible!

Robin
Well, all right. Just be safe.

Severa
...... But, um...thank you...

Robin
Huh? For what...?

Severa
F-for the stupid towel, of course! Don't think for a minute it's because you called me radiant or let me cry at you. This and that are completely separate!

Robin
Heh heh. Duly noted.

Avatar > Severa (child)

Severa
Mmm, this steam feels incredible! AND it's good for the complexion? This place is too good to be true.

Robin
Severa, what are you doing?

Severa
Ooh, perfect timing, Father! Check out this spring. Its waters are supposed to work miracles on your skin!

Robin
Oh yeah?

Severa
Yup! Just one soak, and you'll be smooth as a baby's butt! You should give it a try! Here, I'll waft some of this steam at you.

Robin
Er, thank you, Severa, but this isn't really the time. We're in the heat of battle here!

Severa
Oh, a few minutes won't hurt anyone. Besides, I don't see any Risen around.

Robin
Yes, which probably means they're hiding. You can spend as long as you like in the baths after this. Try to focus for now?

Severa
Gawds, all right, all right. Fine. Yeesh, you and Mother are always so serious. Can I at least dip my hand in for a minute? It's colder than you'd think out here, and my grip is starting to suffer...

Robin
Sure, I think we can spare one minute.

Severa
Woo! Hot spring, here I come! ...Wooow, it's sooo waaarm! Aaah, I can't get over how good it feels! Oh, my achy knuckles! My poor joints have never felt better! I feel alive again!

Robin
You sound like an old man...

Severa
Who cares? It's not like there's anyone around but you to hear me. I see no reason to bother acting cute with you when we're not out shopping...

Robin
What's THAT supposed to mean?

Severa
...AIEEEEEEEEE!

Robin
What's wrong?! Risen lurking in the water?!

Severa
My hand is so smooth!

Robin
Huh?

Severa
SO SMOOTH. MY HAND! Look! I just soaked the right one, and my left hasn't touched the water. Look how rosy my weapon hand is! How perfectly soft and supple it's become!

Robin
Uh, yes, very impressive. Not worth the heart attack you just gave me, but great. Though it's hardly a miracle for hot water to improve circulation and rinse away dirt.

Severa
If a quick dip of the fingers does this much, just imagine a full-body soak...

Robin
Severa... Please don't jump in. Please, please don't jump in. Don't. Do. It.

Severa
......

Robin
SEVERA!

Severa
Hwuh?! O-oh... Father. D-don't be silly. I would never dream of jumping in fully clothed! Besides, we may be family, but I'm not about to bathe with you watching! Anyway, we better get back to the fight. Don't make me leave you behind!

Robin
Hurricane Severa sweeps through again...

Severa > Avatar

Severa
Father... You have anything I could use to dry off?

Robin
Gah, what happened, Severa? You're drenched! You didn't actually...

Severa
No, I did NOT jump in! Show me the girl who wants to leap into a pool fully clothed! ...I slipped. A pack of Risen flanked me out of nowhere, I got startled, and I slipped...

Robin
Well, I'm glad you're only soaked, then. Hold on, I'll get you a cloth.

Severa
That'd be great, thanks. And please. I left the lot of them floating facedown in the water. Trust me, I made sure they got what they deserved.

Robin
Hah! That's my Severa!

Severa
Amazing, aren't I? *Sigh* But if I'm going to fall into a spring, it could at least be one good for my skin... Instead, I wound up dunked in a pool meant to help backaches and stiff shoulders! Between that and my pruned fingers, I feel like an old lady...

Robin
Hah! That's kind of ridiculous.

Severa
It is, isn't it? Hee hee... Totally...completely...*sniff*...r-ridicu...*sniff*...lous... *Sniff* Oh, gods... *sob* Waaaaaaaaah!

Robin
Severa?! What's wrong? Are you hurt?

Severa
N-no, I'm just.... I'm just... *wheeze* I'm just so HAPPY!

Robin
Huh?

Severa
I mean, think about it. *sniff* We're fighting off hordes of monsters, yet we're cracking up over a silly spring? There was never any laughing like this in the future. Ever. I like to think I haven't gone totally soft since coming to this era, but still... *sniff* Back then, you always had to wonder if you wouldn't be better off dead. Every time a battle ended, you knew there was nothing but more bleakness ahead. There was never any talk about "after this battle" or "after the war."

Robin
That sounds more hopeless than I can possibly imagine...

Severa
But here, we're all abuzz about what fun plans we have waiting for us, you know? Soaking in the springs... Taking in the sights... Going shopping for souvenirs... It seems so unreal. We didn't dare to dream about that sort of thing back in our time. But it's waiting for us. Actual free time. No one to bury. No new battle to prepare for. And I get to spend it with my mother and father. That just... It made me so happy, I...

Robin
...... Life has thrown so much at you, Severa, but look at you. You're still standing strong. After all that hard work and perseverance, I'd say you've earned one heck of a day off.

Severa
I...I should hope so... All right, it's settled, then. After this, I'm headed straight to that bath, and I'm not leaving till I'm positively aglow!

Robin
That's the spirit. Though I'd say you're already glowing pretty bright as it is.

Severa
Wha—?! C-cut that out... You don't need to make stuff up. Save your flattery for Mother. And besides, daddy compliments don't count! I could be uglier than these Risen and you'd still tell me I was the prettiest girl alive!

Robin
I've thought you were the prettiest girl alive since before I knew you were my daughter.

Severa
W-well, flattery will get you nowhere! And rightfully so—you're my father! Ick! Anyway, here's your cloth back. No more chatter. I want as much time in those springs as possible!

Robin
Well, all right. Just be safe.

Severa
...... But, um...thank you...

Robin
Huh? For what...?

Severa
F-for the stupid towel, of course! Don't think for a minute it's because you called me radiant or let me cry at you. This and that are completely separate!

Robin
Heh heh. Duly noted. I guess I should be thankful you're so awful at hiding the way you feel.

Severa
It's your own dumb fault for picking a wife who's just as bad at it...

Robin
What was that, honey?

Severa
Nothing. I just said I love you, Daddy.

Robin
What?! R-really...?

Severa
Hee hee. Time to go!

Avatar > Severa (spouse)

Severa
Just look at the size of these baths! You could swim laps in this one! Ooh, and that one says its waters work wonders for dry skin! I need to be in these springs, Robin. Now!

Robin
Heh. Let's hurry up and be rid of these Risen. Then you can go soak all you like.

Severa
Ugh, must you say it like that?!

Robin
Like what?! Did I mess up again?

Severa
Yes, you messed up again! "Go soak all you like"? What, are you just gonna send me off to the bath alone? Is that any way for a man to speak to his loving, caring WIFE?!

Robin
Huh?! B-but if I'd said I wanted to go in with you, you'd have been even MADDER!

Severa
Well, yeah. I would have. Still, it was inconsiderate and rude, and I don't appreciate it!

Robin
Sorry, dear...

Severa
I mean, it's not like we're liable to visit a place like this again in the near future... This is basically our honeymoon!

Robin
Our WHAT?!

Severa
Isn't it?

Robin
Uh...maybe? I guess? If you say so? S-sure, Severa. It's a wonderful setting. Let's have a great time.

Severa
That's more like it.

Robin
Whew... You're not mad anymore...

Severa
All right, then. I leave all the post-combat activity planning in your hands!

Robin
...Buh?

Severa
Don't "buh" me, buster! You're in charge! That's what you do. You plan things. And I want an unforgettable honeymoon.

Robin
That's not really my area of expertise... Wait, but if I come up with a plan, does that mean you'll follow it? Because in that case—

Severa
Mixed baths are off the table.

Robin
Worst honeymoon ever...

Severa
Let me be perfectly clear, darling. You're planning OUR honeymoon. Not yours. So I'm looking forward to all your brilliant ideas for how I—your wife—can have fun. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some undead stragglers to thrash!

Robin
Ugh... She makes planning a war sound fun...

Severa > Avatar

Severa
Ahh, there you are, darling. So how goes the planning?

Robin
Sorry. I haven't really had the chance to think on it, given the circumstances...

Severa
Well, I suppose that's understandable. I'll be back to check in on you soon, then. ...Hm? What are those papers you've got? Drafting up some new tactics for us?

Robin
Ah! N-no, those aren't—

Severa
Hmm, let's see... Ooh, there's quite the variety here. We've got trips to the souvenir shops, long walks through the foliage, stargazing! "Note: remember that it's snowing outside. Bring a coat and a hot drink for Severa." Aww, look at all this!

Robin
...All right, so I jotted a few ideas down between all the fighting for my life. It's not done, though. I wanted to wait till it was before I showed you...

Severa
......

Robin
Severa?

Severa
*Sniff* Waaaaaah! *sob*

Robin
Ack?! Wh-what, you don't like it? I'll keep thinking, then! Don't cry!

Severa
No, you idiot, I'm happy! I knew you cared, but... *sniff* I never knew you cared this much...

Robin
What?! You're in tears because I said I'd go souvenir shopping? Just how little did you think I cared before?!

Severa
It's not like that, you big dummy! You're our tactician. All of ours. I'm not used to thinking of you as just mine... I know you're busy, and I know it can't be helped, but...it gets lonely sometimes. And then today, you thought of all these ways to spend time with just me, and I...

Robin
I'm sorry, Severa. I never meant to neglect you...

Severa
You haven't. You've been amazing. I'm just jealous, I suppose... I know you do what you do for all of us, Robin. We're all lucky to have you.

Robin
Severa...

Severa
And I went and burdened you with thinking up silly vacation plans! I'm such a child...

Robin
...... Hold still a minute.

Severa
Huh? ...Mmmph?!

Robin
......

Severa
Wh-what in the world are you thinking?! This is no place to be k-kissing!

Robin
It's your fault. You were too adorable.

Severa
A-adorable?! Don't even TRY that!

Robin
It's the truth. I just have to live with the fact that I have the world's most gorgeous bride.

Severa
...Prettier than my mother?

Robin
What?! Uh, can we leave your mom out of this? Please? But yes. Cordelia is a lovely woman, but I'm afraid you win. She outdid herself with you.

Severa
...Hee hee. Then I suppose I can let it slide this once. But fair is fair, and I have no intention of letting you get away with it for free. There's a leaf in your hair, dear.

Robin
What? Where...? Mmmnffg?!

Severa
......

Robin
Severa, that— Wow...what was that?!

Severa
Gee, I wonder. Perhaps a falling leaf grazed your lips?

Robin
A leaf with a tongue?

Severa
What, you're complaining?! Anyway, we have a battle to fight! Wipe that dopey grin off your face, and get back to the front lines! ...And hurry it up, or the souvenir shops will be closed.

Robin
Those plans work for you, then?

Severa
I suppose after you took the time to draft them up, the least I can do is humor you! Once I've had a nice soak and some dinner, I... I'll be waiting for you. ...Don't be late.

Robin
I'll be there.

Severa
Good. I'm counting on you. ...And I'm looking forward to it. Probably more than anything in my life up till now. I know that's not saying much, given the way things were in the future, but... Being in a place this amazing, with a person this amazing... I've never known happiness like this before. So thank you, Robin. ...I love you.

Chrom > Emmeryn

Chrom
How are you feeling, Emm?

Emmeryn
A bit...tired...

Chrom
Sorry to hear that. I wish I could give you more time to rest between all these battles. But do you see these hot springs? They're therapeutic. Once the fighting is done, I promise to give you time to relax and heal.

Emmeryn
Thera...peutic...

Chrom
That's right. Soak in these waters and you'll feel all your pain and troubles melt away. Some folk even claim hot springs can speed recovery from wounds and illnesses. Pretty impressive, don't you think? Almost like magic. I'm sure they'll work a host of wonders for you as well.

Emmeryn
The water... So warm...

Chrom
That's right, isn't it nice? Do you remember when I was little and I almost drowned in the bath? You came running in and plucked me out of the suds like a kitten! Ha!

Emmeryn
I'm sorry... I-I don't remember...

Chrom
It's all right. Everything will come back to you in time.

Emmeryn
But I...do like this...

Chrom
Like what?

Emmeryn
The water... It's warm... It smells alive...

Chrom
Well, I'm glad you're enjoying it. Now let's go finish off these Risen so you can appreciate it in full.

Emmeryn > Chrom

Chrom
I can't remember how long it's been since I've seen Emm so fond of a place.

Emmeryn
The water... So warm... Thera...peutic!

Chrom
...... Emm, there's something I think we should talk about.

Emmeryn
What...?

Chrom
How would you like to stay here for a while at the hot springs? I know you enjoy it here. And you could give yourself time to recuperate...

Emmeryn
...?

Chrom
Of course I would rather stay with you. I wish I could always keep you close—keep you safe. But you spent the first part of your life preaching peace. I had no right to drag you into my war and entangle you in such violence...

Emmeryn
......

Chrom
I...I would understand if you chose to leave it all behind and stay here.

Emmeryn
Chrom... Are you...crying?

Chrom
Hm? *sniff* Don't be silly, I—

Emmeryn
I want to stay...with you...

Chrom
What? But, Emm...

Emmeryn
I belong...with you... My strength...is your strength... The world...needs me... You need me... And I...need you...

Chrom
Oh, Emm... *sniff*

Emmeryn
Don't...cry, Chrom... Everything...will be okay...

Chrom
Thanks, Emm. You'll always be my big sister. We belong together. And I swear on Falchion that no harm will come to you. I swear to all the gods! You and I will give the world the peace it desires. Together.

Emmeryn
Together...

Anna > Say'ri

Say'ri
Anna! Anyone, is Anna about?!

Anna
Something the matter, Say'ri?

Say'ri
I was just passing by the inns near the baths, and I saw the most splendid thing. It was a sword in the fashion of my land housed in the most magnificent sheath. Yet it was no smithy selling it, and I saw no other arms among the baubles for sale. I ask you, as a merchant, why would that be?

Anna
They were souvenirs, most like. Aimed at tourists visiting the springs.

Say'ri
Tourists? What need have tourists for a blade?

Anna
Precious little, were it real. The edges are dulled to uselessness. They're toys, dear.

Say'ri
A toy? That? But the craftsmanship...

Anna
Is lovely, isn't it? Some people like to collect them as works of art. Not the wisest investment by my estimation...but to each his own, right?

Say'ri
I see... Hmm.

Anna
Why, were you thinking of buying one?

Say'ri
Wh-what? No! I've no interest in toys. An ornamental sword is no sword at all to a warrior...

Anna
You'd sound more convincing if you weren't fidgeting and eyeing the road back to town.

Say'ri
I... I was doing nothing of the sort!

Anna
Really now?

Say'ri
Yes, really!

Anna
My mistake, then. Good thing too. Replica swords are especially popular souvenirs. If you HAD been interested, you'd have to hurry before they all sold out... Luckily, that's no concern of yours, hmm?

Say'ri
What? Is that true?!

Anna
...Not even a little. They're expensive, as souvenirs go. They'll sit on a store shelf unsold for years. That is, unless someone like you comes along to snatch one up!

Say'ri
Urgh... That was devious and unkind, my lady. And thoroughly embarrassing, besides.

Anna
Hee hee... Say'ri you're adorable.

Say'ri > Anna

Say'ri
Anna? I, er... About those swords...

Anna
Are you still on about that, dear?

Say'ri
No, I merely... Well, yes, put frankly. There is one I simply must have.

Anna
Even though it's a toy?

Say'ri
It matters not. The graceful arc of it, the subtle color... I've fallen in love!

Anna
Hmm. Far be it for a merchant to discourage anyone's impulse shopping... But I'd still have to recommend against it.

Say'ri
But why?! I'm well aware it holds no use in combat!

Anna
It's not that. These tourist traps tend to pawn off faulty goods on unsuspecting customers. The quality isn't fit for a child's plaything, and the prices are outright criminal. This sword of yours, how much are they asking for it?

Say'ri
...It's 1500 gold, if memory serves.

Anna
Scandalous! You could buy a real sword of silver for that sum!

Say'ri
It's expensive, then, you think?

Anna
Egads, woman. As someone well acquainted with a blade, I'd think you'd know better. Honestly, this is the trouble with princesses. No idea how the real world works at all.

Say'ri
I, um... My apologies.

Anna
It's not your fault, I suppose. Anyway, lead on. Let's pay this shop a little visit.

Say'ri
What, together? You'll come with me?

Anna
Merchant's pride. I can't abide by swindlers and frauds. I'll set them straight. Then, while they're picking up the pieces of their ego, we'll get you your sword... At MY price.

Say'ri
Oh, thank you, Anna! I'm so glad I thought to ask you. In matters of commerce, there is none stronger!

Anna
Heh heh. You can repay me by telling everyone else about what a gem I am. The better a merchant's reputation, the more they can rake in, after all!

Say'ri > Yen'fay

Say'ri
......

Yen'fay
Does something trouble you, Say'ri? Why are you gazing at the water?

Say'ri
Hmm? Ah, Brother... Beg pardon. My mind must have left me for a spell.

Yen'fay
Are you that eager to try the baths? Have patience. These Risen will be dealt with presently.

Say'ri
Nay, Brother, you have the wrong idea. I was simply remembering the time our family visited the hot springs in Chon'sin.

Yen'fay
Hmm... Aye, I remember the trip. You were little... Or rather... she was.

Say'ri
We went with Mother and Father... when they yet lived. What fun we had! It had been some time since our last gathering, so I was a ball of excitement.

Yen'fay
You were so excited that you fell by the entrance. I remember the tears.

Say'ri
Ha ha... Aye. So that part is the same. How strange, the places our tales intersect. I remember how you scrubbed my back in the bath to cheer me up.

Yen'fay
Aye, that I did.

Say'ri
...O-oh, but please do not get the wrong idea!

Yen'fay
Hm? Shall I scrub your back for you now?

Say'ri
Nay, and say no more of it! How old do you think I am?

Yen'fay
Ha ha ha. I jest, Say'ri

Say'ri
And... 'tis more than that.

Yen'fay
Hm?

Say'ri
Even if you are my brother... 'tis not the same. Do you understand?

Yen'fay
Say'ri...

Say'ri
Pray pardon. I need some space...

Yen'fay
It seems to trouble her that I have thrust myself back into her life like this...

Yen'fay > Say'ri

Say'ri
*Sniff* *sob*

Yen'fay
Say'ri...

Say'ri
Brother, I pray thee... Leave me be.

Yen'fay
......

Say'ri
I do not wish for you to see me like this.

Yen'fay
There is no shame in tears. Too much sentiment burdens the body and mind. We must set it free.

Say'ri
I am far too old to "set it free" in front of you...

Yen'fay
......

Say'ri
...'Tis your fault!

Yen'fay
...!

Say'ri
You look like him, speak like him... You even treat me the same. You trick the eye and make me believe I have him back! And the more you say you are different, the more you feel the same.

Yen'fay
Say'ri... I...

Say'ri
*Sob* Ahhh...

Yen'fay
You have the right of it. I ought never have returned to you like this. Perhaps the time has come to part ways... before the pain cuts deeper...

Say'ri
What? ...Where are you going?!

Yen'fay
We shall not meet again. Your brother is dead, and you met a man who only vaguely resembled him. You need remember only that. Fare thee well, Say'ri.

Say'ri
Wait! No! ...BROTHER!

Yen'fay
I tell you, I am not you brother.

Say'ri
It matters not! Can you not see that I need you?

Yen'fay
...Are you certain? Perhaps we do our true siblings a dishonor by pretending.

Say'ri
Our true siblings are gone... *Sniff* You are the brother I have.

Yen'fay
It seems I am cursed with the unfortunate gift of making you cry in any world. Forgive me, Say'ri. Your brother is here. My sleeves are yours to weep in.

Say'ri
Mercy, Brother... Thank you... *sob*

Flavia > Anna

Anna
My, my, if it isn't Flavia. ...Or should I say Your Grace, East-Khan of Regna Ferox? I'm simply dying to here what matter would have you call me to a place like this.

Flavia
It's Flavia. Just Flavia. And I apologize for the sudden request. I need a favor.

Anna
If it's in my power, you need but command it. So what'll it be, Just Flavia?

Flavia
I'm told you can get your hands on pretty much anything. How much of that is idle legend?

Anna
Ooh, then it's a business inquiry! Excellent. As for your question The legend is never idle. We stock literally everything, from drywall to dragon tears. Everything under the sun, and a few choice items from above it. That's our trade.

Flavia
Good. ...Then I'd like to buy some of these baths. To go, if you please.

Anna
Come again?

Flavia
Regna Ferox is snowbound the year around. Frankly, it's colder than a Risen's nethers. That takes its toll on people. A place like this would warm their bodies and hearts.

Anna
I see... A lovely notion, really. But hot springs aren't known for their mobility.

Flavia
It doesn't have to be a natural spring, obviously. Have you seen anything similar?

Anna
Something to serve the role of a hot spring... That's quite the tall order. Hmm...

Flavia
My apologies. It was a foolish request. I shouldn't have burdened you.

Anna
Now, don't be in such a hurry to leave, Ms. Flavia.

Flavia
Hm?

Anna
I told you I could get anything. I'm not about to be proven a liar. I have my pride as a merchant to defend. Might I have a little time to think on it?

Flavia
You're serious?

Anna
Hey, this is a job for a khan, right? Stands to reason it would be a khan-sized job. That only means it'll be that much more satisfying to fulfill!

Flavia
I see! Well, if you're sure, I suppose I'll place my trust in your merchant's pride.

Anna
Heh heh. Always a wise bet. Now, time to see if the sisters have any ideas...

Anna > Flavia

Anna
Flavia!

Flavia
Oh, Anna. Need something?

Anna
I was hoping I could have a word. About your hot-springs acquisition?

Flavia
What? Don't tell me you've already found some magic bauble to do the trick?

Anna
No baubles, I'm afraid. I doubt such a thing even exists.

Flavia
I see... Well, even a legend can't be asked to find something that doesn't exist.

Anna
True enough. But I was hoping you might take a look at this

Flavia
Hm? What is it? A bag full of...what, some sort of powder? Rather pretty, really, with all the colors. There's white, blue...

Anna
This turns into your hot springs.

Flavia
What? This?! I'll thank you not to pull my leg, merchant! Even if I were to fill this to the brim, the bag is too small to carry enough water! Besides, you said yourself there was no such thing as an instant spring.

Anna
I said it didn't exist. Which is why my sisters and I made one.

Flavia
...You did what?

Anna
Take a whiff of that stuff.

Flavia
...I know this. It's the same as the smell from the source of the spring!

Anna
Exactly. Add a bit of that to a tub of water, and you have yourself a hot spring. Same smell, even the same therapeutic effects. It's a brand-new addition to our lineup! Consider that a free sample, love.

Flavia
Thank you, Anna! I'd heard tales of your feats as merchants, but I never knew you were genius inventors! I'm certain my people will love it.

Anna
Hee hee. Another satisfied customer! We happily await your next purchase, Just Flavia.

Flavia > Tiki

Tiki
Khan Flavia of Regna Ferox, I presume? I have hoped for some time now to get this chance to speak with you.

Flavia
Well, that's funny. I've been meaning to break the ice with you too.

Tiki
Clearly this is our destined moment.

Flavia
Ha ha! Clearly.

Tiki
The realm you call Ferox certainly brings back memories... How do the people there fare today? I remember only a cold, harsh land. Have you found a way to cope with the heavy snowfall and barren soil?

Flavia
Well, we've struggled with the harvest for generations. Honestly, it took years and years of work before the soil was worth a damn... Still, I hope we've improved it some from what you remember.

Tiki
That's wonderful! Your people owe you much.

Flavia
My people owe me squat. It's my predecessors who did all the heavy lifting. The way I see it, I have yet to leave my mark on Regna Ferox. And if I'm lucky, my people and history will remember me as a good khan.

Tiki
That's very humble of you.

Flavia
Ferox has no future unless this war is brought to a favorable end. I must see it done within my lifetime.

Tiki
Well, you will. We all will—together.

Flavia
Damn right we well.

Tiki > Flavia

Flavia
Tiki, tell me more about the Regna Ferox you remember.

Tiki
Well, all right... After all, I slept there within the ice for several centuries. As I recall, it was a frozen hell plagued by barbarians and mage dragons.

Flavia
So the legends go. I can tell you the barbarians, at least, are still around.

Tiki
They are? But how do you keep them at bay? Are your villages not harassed day and night?

Flavia
Ha ha! I mean we're descended from the barbarians—the Feroxi people.

Tiki
Really?! But you're so...so civilized. I guess people really do change.

Flavia
Well, we did keep some of the old blood sport to fight boredom. Most of us love nothing more than a good brawl and a big keg to drown in after.

Tiki
Still it reassures me to see a woman as strong as you with wisdom to match. You have power, but I know you would never brandish it without cause. All that barbaric energy was sublimated into positive potential.

Flavia
Funny how that worked out. One wrong step and we'd have died the howling primitives we started as.

Tiki
But you didn't. That shows just how much the Feroxi can do.

Flavia
That's nice of you to say, Tiki.

Tiki
I hope I get to the northland again. It has been far too long.

Flavia
Then why don't you come down and visit once the fighting is done? The Voice of the divine dragon is always welcome in Regna Ferox.

Tiki
Thank you, Flavia. Now I long to finish this battle all the sooner!

Flavia
You and me both!

Walhart > Basilio

Basilio
If it isn't the beacon of happiness, Walhart. With a grimace like that, you'll have even your comrades running for the hills. ...Oh, right. I forgot. You don't NEED any comrades.

Walhart
If only your weapon received half as much practice as that glib tongue of yours.

Basilio
Uh-huh. So why are you here again? You look more out of place at the hot springs than these Risen do.

Walhart
...Hmph. How strange. I had thought that eyepatch simply hid some old battle scar... But I see now it just prevents you from assessing the world twice as poorly.

Basilio
You're one to talk, beady-eyes. Can you even see through all this steam?

Walhart
A feeble salvo of words against the man who nearly killed you. Shall I dismiss your remarks as the madness of a weakling and a craven?

Basilio
You could try—

Walhart
Careful. If you draw your weapon, I must take it as a challenge. I would have no choice but to crush you where you stand.

Basilio
Rrgh... Forget it. You're not worth it. I didn't come here to cross blades with a lunatic like you.

Walhart
Well, if you're done singing, cricket, hop, hop away.

Basilio
I WOULD if you'd stop trying to get in the last word!

Walhart
Like this?

Basilio
ARGH! NEVER MIND! I hope you fall over and drown before the battle is done!

Walhart
Heh...

Basilio > Walhart

Basilio
Walhart!

Walhart
Ah, cricket. You come with weapon drawn. Have I given offense? What with this steam and my beady-eyes, you may yet stand a shred of a chance.

Basilio
HAAA!

Risen
...Mmrrf!

Walhart
HRYAAAH!

Risen
...Ooohhh...

Basilio
...They thought they could get the drop on you? How stupid are they?

Walhart
I was in no danger.

Basilio
Heh, yeah. No danger at all. You had at least, what, half a second before that Risen skewered you? I was trying to warn you, and you act like I was out to kill you.

Walhart
Little difference it makes. Whoever challenges me shall crumple by the wayside in defeat. And I might point out that you, too, were moments from parting with your head.

Basilio
You talk too much.

Walhart
No man could talk as much as you.

Basilio
You know what? I think we need to settle our differences once and for all.

Walhart
Come at me then, cricket. I will snap your bones like matchsticks.

Basilio
Actually, since you're so confident, why don't you let me choose the rules?

Walhart
Bah... There is no arena beneath the sky in which you can surpass me.

Basilio
So I get to pick? Good! I challenge you to a drinking contest.

Walhart
...What?

Basilio
Ah, ah, ah. No backing out of it now! You don't know what you're up against. They call me the Walking Cask of Ferox!

Walhart
Hmph... I accept your challenge.

Basilio
Oh, you are so doomed. I'll meet you right here after the battle is over. Let's see if I can make your face match your armor with a few kegs of Feroxi mead!

Walhart
...So he means to avoid a fight to save face but bond with me at the same time? That Basilio is cleverer than he looks. His slow destruction by ale shall be most satisfying...

Walhart > Priam

Priam
Walhart... I see that not even these waters can quiet your lust for battle. If I didn't know better, I'd say your aura alone keeps the water aboil.

Walhart
I could say the same. The energies surrounding you set the air aspark. Even in all this steam, you crackle like a beacon. My humors tremble in the face of so worthy a swordsman.

Priam
I know the quickening you speak of. But what I feel now is different... Could it be fear? I have faced myriad champions in duels to the death and survived every one. But I look at you now and struggle to picture my sword buried in that armor.

Walhart
Aye, just as I sense that you stand as the greatest threat to my conquest. You are a boulder in my path, Priam—one that must be removed.

Priam
Then let's finish this conversation blade to blade.

Walhart
Yes! Show me how you wield that bloodthirsty demon at your side!

Priam
The strong are drawn to the strong. Our very nature compels us.

Walhart
So it seems. Now have at you!

Soldier
...Help! It's the Risen!

Priam
Damn. We'll finish this later.

Walhart
Indeed we will...

Priam > Walhart

Priam
Something's coming...and it's not a Risen... I can feel the air around me closing in... Suffocating... Like it's trying to squeeze anyone unworthy right out of existence! He must be close.

Walhart
...Priam. I could sense you approaching like a hot knife through the cold, buttery air. Only a man with your skill could project such an aura. I would know it even a thousand leagues away. How it pleases me that we may now finish our unsettled score!

Priam
The strong are drawn to the strong!

Walhart
Now, come and break that mighty blade upon me.

Priam
I think I'll just break you. ...Draw!

Soldier
Help! More Risen! We're surrounded!

Priam
Ugh... Not again.

Walhart
Perhaps we are simply not destined to clash just yet. Priam...what say we annihilate these Risen fools and settle our score then?

Priam
You suggest an alliance?

Walhart
Just imagine it. Side by side, we could disintegrate those wretched corpses with a sneeze.

Priam
Heh... Sounds like fun. And I could use a warm-up before I take you on!

Emmeryn > Lissa

Lissa
Hey, Emm!

Emmeryn
...Lissa?

Lissa
You want to pop into the hot springs once we finish kicking Risen carcass? We can have water fights and see who can hold her breath longer—just like old times! The springs are so huge, we could probably have swim races too. And we won't tell Chrom because he's a big grump and will say we need to behave.

Emmeryn
Chrom...won't be there?

Lissa
What?! Emm! ...Brother or not, Chrom can't come into the hot springs with us! They're for bathing. The men and women have to use separate areas.

Emmeryn
Won't he be...lonely?

Lissa
Listen—a lady needs to have her privacy, so don't you dare invite him, I mean it! He'd do anything for you, you know? And I really don't want to picture him diving into a pool of naked women, shouting— "Hold on! I'm coming!"

Emmeryn
You sound...just like him...

Lissa
Hah! I know. I should start charging people for the act. Anyway—you, me, hot springs. It's a date. Okay?

Lissa > Emmeryn

Emmeryn
Lissa...

Lissa
What's the matter, Emm? Trying to beat me to the hot springs, is that it?

Emmeryn
Do you...hate Chrom...?

Lissa
WHAT?! ...Seriously, what? Oh, you mean because I said I didn't want to take a bath with him? Don't worry. I love Chrom a bunch. Just not in a weird, creepy way.

Emmeryn
You...mean it?

Lissa
Of course! You know, it wasn't too long ago that I thought you were...you know. I cried my eyes out every single day. Trust me. I was a mess. There were even days I wished I was dead just so I could be with you. But you know who pulled me through it? Chrom.

Emmeryn
......

Lissa
The sadness must have been tearing him up even more. But he held all of that in check because he wanted to help me cope first.

Emmeryn
Chrom is...so nice...

Lissa
He sure is. And I'll tell you a little secret. I saw Chrom come back from visiting your sickbed one of those first nights. He was crying and thanking Naga for sending you back to him. It was like everything he was holding back opened all at once, like a floodgate. You set him free... Oh, Emm... *sniff* I'm so glad you're back.

Emmeryn
Lissa... Are you...crying?

Lissa
*Sniff* Not really, no... But when I remember Chrom's face... The tears... It was just a lot to process.

Emmeryn
Do you...always cry when...you're happy?

Lissa
Only for a special kind of happy.

Emmeryn
I love you, Lissa... Chrom too.

Lissa
Well, we love you back a hundredfold! ...But Chrom still can't come into the bath with us, and that's final.

Emmeryn
O...okay...

Emmeryn > Gangrel

Gangrel
So, uh...Emmeryn.

Emmeryn
......

Gangrel
Would you rather I left you be?

Emmeryn
...No.

Gangrel
...All right. Well, seeing as you and I now fight for the same cause... That is to say, I thought we ought to create more opportunities to converse.

Emmeryn
...Yes.

Gangrel
Rrgh... I must make something clear to you—though you are free to dismiss it entirely. I have no desire for your forgiveness. I did as my position demanded me at the time. No more, and no less.

Emmeryn
......

Gangrel
I simply clamored for justice! You were the one who leaped to her doom. Do I have the wrong of it?

Emmeryn
You don't...make any sense...

Gangrel
Heh. That I don't, sorry.

Emmeryn
Why are...you apologizing...?

Gangrel
What? N-no, that's not the same! I just told you I won't apologize! How dare you push me toward the precipice of remorse with your half-sentences!

Emmeryn
......

Gangrel
Rrgh... Never mind. Forget we ever spoke.

Emmeryn
...... Gangrel...

Gangrel > Emmeryn

Gangrel
Oh! Emmeryn... Fancy meeting you here...

Emmeryn
......

Gangrel
Listen...I am just going to talk aloud for a bit. But these words are not meant for you! Certainly not! Shield your ears from Gangrel's mad ravings!

Emmeryn
...?

Gangrel
Even a dog like me knows the pangs of remorse. I laid legions of dead at my feet. But when I climbed that mountain of corpses... I found the vantage empty of any meaning. I failed to change anything.

Emmeryn
......

Gangrel
I was supposed to be the one to... to fix everything... But these hands that I dreamed would shape the future... They reek of blood. And the blood won't come off... My hands were clean once, I swear! ...Weren't they? Or did I just never stop to notice? Gods, I only want to get away from this carnage that has become my brand... Is there no way out? Must this be my final mark?!

Emmeryn
...... Don't cry, Gangrel...

Gangrel
Wh-why are you patting me on the head? Stop that!

Emmeryn
You're...precious to me...

Gangrel
...What did you say?

Emmeryn
You're one of...my friends. Promise you...won't cry...

Gangrel
Ahh... Ahh, *sniff* Emmeryn! I'm not crying, damn you! I have nothing to cry about! N-nothing! *sob* AAAAAAH! Damn the gods above, one and all!

Emmeryn
...... You can...change... I believe in you... So don't cry... Everything will be...all right...

Yen'fay > Priam

Priam
*Sigh*

Yen'fay
A sigh, Sir Priam? Whatever could ail a warrior of your stature?

Priam
What, can I not just be tired? We HAVE been fighting an endless number of battles. I mean, I did my share of training back when I was living on the island, but still... World travel takes a lot out of a man. Otherworld travel even more so.

Yen'fay
Aye, but 'tis strange to hear words of defeat from a champion of your caliber.

Priam
...Did you really just talk about me using the D word?

Yen'fay
Pray pardon, sir. I meant no offense. This side of you only makes you more fascinating. And it comes as a relief.

Priam
A relief?

Yen'fay
Aye, sir. On any day, you fight as mercilessly as a demon. Thus, whatever the cause of your present troubles, they come as a breath of fresh air. They show that the mighty Priam is human, you see.

Priam
Well, I've never thought of myself as anything else.

Yen'fay
And therein lies your power! Most men expose susceptibilities in their moments of conceit. Even me, it shames me to say... But not you, sir. Somehow you retain humanity, yet hover above human weakness.

Priam
That's a nice bit of poetry, but let me lay it all out for you. I'm just a man. See? A regular human. Not some super race, not some demon. And I swear to you now on this glaive that I intended no such affectations.

Yen'fay
...The less you see it, the stronger you prove yourself to be.

Priam > Yen'fay

Yen'fay
Sir Priam.

Priam
Still need something, Yen'fay?

Yen'fay
Have you heard these waters are therapeutic? They soothe the body.

Priam
I have. So?

Yen'fay
You had insinuated our campaign was taking its toll upon you, sir. Thus I thought it prudent, perhaps, that you rest in the bath for a spell. After, of course, the Risen have been vanquished and business restored.

Priam
I take baths on my own time, I don't need to do it in a place so...exposed. Even if they let me take my weapon in, I still have to doff my armor, right?

Yen'fay
You fear the Risen will strike whilst you bathe?

Priam
Pretty much.

Yen'fay
Then put your fears to rest. We can bathe in shifts. Guards will always be posted.

Priam
I know, but...

Yen'fay
You trust no guard but yourself.

Priam
Well...

Yen'fay
My friend, I have little doubt your strength surpasses that of any among us. But the strength of one is easily broken by the strength of numbers. Without us by your side, how would you fare against a well-trained army of a thousand?

Priam
All right, Yen'fay. You've made your point. No man is an island...even if he did use to live on one. I'll take your advice and put a little more faith in the others.

Yen'fay
Splendid. ...And remember the bath. I promise you these waters will chase the fatigue from your bones.

Priam
Heh... Relaxing is hardly my bread and butter, but I'll give it a try. I never knew you were such a hygiene guru. What gives?

Yen'fay
Chon'sin had many such hot springs. Laugh it off as an old custom, if you wish.

Priam
I see. Well, I think it's a great custom. And I'm lucky to have a friend like you to give such good advice. Thanks, Yen'fay.

Aversa > Tiki

Aversa
Well, if it isn't the lips of the goddess herself.

Tiki
...Aversa? Why are you staring at me like I'm some sort of monster?

Aversa
Oh, is that how it looks? I was going for more of a "how dare you always stay so youthful it sickens me" face. It's not fair! You've lived thousands of years and still look but a maiden.

Tiki
You must see these things in perspective. I used to look no older than a wee child. If people who knew me then saw me now, they would be shocked by how I aged.

Aversa
How long ago was this?

Tiki
Umm... About 2,000 years?

Aversa
Argh! See?! You've been young far longer than you deserve! Our comrades call me a hag behind my back- heck, some to my face! By the time anyone calls YOU hag, my grandkids' grandkids will be buried.

Tiki
I suppose so... It is beyond my power.

Aversa
So when WILL you be an old hag?

Tiki
Too long from now to be reckoned in years. I never did ask Bantu how old HE was...

Aversa
Must you manakete make us all look so pathetic and small? I can't even begin to fathom what it's like to have lived two millennia.

Tiki
Huh? No no, I have lived three millennia. I mean, if we're splitting hairs.

Aversa
Th-Three thousand years?! ...And to think, there's not a single strand of grey in those hairs you speak of...

Tiki > Aversa

Aversa
*Sigh* I do wish I was younger.

Tiki
Why are you complaining to me? I am far older than you. And longevity isn't all it's cracked up to be, I'll have you know. You have to experience the pain of losing loved ones again and again

Aversa
But I don't want eternal life. I want eternal youth.

Tiki
You just want to stop yourself from looking any older?

Aversa
Are you trying to imply I look old?

Tiki
Is that not what this entire conversation is about?

Aversa
Ugh, never mind that! The point is: I want to have a young, firm body, and I want to keep it. If I only live as long as the next woman I can content myself with that. As long as I get to go back to how I looked 10 years ago!

Tiki
Uh-huh. Good luck with that.

Aversa
I wonder if drinking your blood would make me younger.

Tiki
Wh-what? No, it won't!

Aversa
Couldn't hurt to try, though, could it? A lock of hair of phial of tears might do the trick too.

Tiki
Don't even think about it!

Aversa
I know. Maybe if I drink the water from the hot springs where you bathed...

Tiki
Are you trying to scar me for life? ...I have a long life, you know!

Aversa
You can't stop me. It's not as if these are YOUR hot springs.

Tiki
Well, slake your thirst when I'm not looking... And don't get your hopes up!

Aversa
I'll balk at nothing when my beauty is on the line.

Tiki
...Naga take me! Three thousand years of turmoil, and only now do I think I know true horror...

Aversa > Gangrel

Aversa
Oh. Look who it is. Shouldn't crows be picking your bones clean for all the naughty things you did?

Gangrel
Hmph... You're one to talk, vixen. You caused Chrom and the others more trouble than I! And yet here you are, suckling off his army stores like a shameless she-leech.

Aversa
Guilty as charged. But you see...I've decided to put the past behind me. And as long as I see a path to happiness, I intend to seize it.

Gangrel
Ha! Well, aren't you a resourceful little beaver. Stabbing people in the back didn't work, so now you'll just try something else?

Aversa
Waggle your tongue at me all you want, dog. See if I care.

Gangrel
I'm not the one retching forth nugget after nugget of half-witted provocation! Argh... Blazing hells! Just being around you fills me with rage!

Aversa
The feeling is mutual, I assure you. You remind me of past embarrassments I'd rather forget. So do us both a favor and don't slink so close to me next time.

Gangrel
Peh. Suit yourself, wench!

Gangrel > Aversa

Aversa
Well...if it isn't the Mud King Mongrel. I thought I told you to keep away.

Gangrel
You don't own this world or any other, you flabby-thighed hag. And the name is "Mad King," not "Mud King." Get it straight.

Aversa
Ah. Then I take it you have no objection to the "Mongrel" part?

Gangrel
Why would I? I AM a dog. Always have been. And I like it that way.

Aversa
Then go piddle on a tree and leave me alone.

Gangrel
...I loathe you, woman. But I suppose I should be grateful someone more putrid than I is still around to vilify. I can't badmouth the rest of these saps—least of all Chrom. He's the only reason I still have food to eat and a head on my shoulders to eat it with.

Aversa
The boy is far too lenient. Can you believe it? There's a war going on, and where does he take us? Hot springs! Not that a lady isn't grateful for the luxury. ...Just to be clear, I don't want you anywhere near me when I bathe.

Gangrel
Ha! You bathe? I hardly noticed. Try not to freeze the water solid with that glacial charm of yours. No one wants to soak in COLD springs.

Aversa
You should talk. They'll have to DRAIN the springs after a toad like you upsets the mineral balance.

Gangrel
I hope you drown.

Aversa
I don't care what you do, as long as I get to keep denigrating you.

Gangrel
We'll see who denigrates who! I've got enough insults to last another lifetime. And who better to take out all this pent-up anger on than you?

Aversa
Shall we make it a contest, then?

Gangrel
Your mother was a contest.

Owain > Gerome

Owain
Heh... Were you aware, Gerome?

Gerome
...Of?

Owain
Of the ruins of yore whispered to lie cloaked in the steam of these baths! Within them slumbers the dragonsbane blade, named for a raging god of chaos... My blood boils hotter than the geysers that feed these pools... The sword calls to me!

Gerome
I ought to have known better than to ask. Leave me out of your pathetic delusions.

Owain
My delusions are NOT pathetic! ...Wait, that didn't come out right. Anyway, I came to ask a favor.

Gerome
Go look for your fantasy sword alone, Owain.

Owain
It's not that. Give me your mask!

Gerome
Excuse me?

Owain
Surely even you must feel it in your bones as I do. I am far worthier of donning that ebon visor!

Gerome
Forget it.

Owain
All right, fine. Then I'll take the pitch-black dragon armor instead. Its onyx wings are a fitting match for my—

Gerome
No.

Owain
Urgh... You drive a hard bargain, sir, I'll grant you that. Very well. I suppose I'll content myself with your wyvern. Cede her unto me! I swear by the blood of heroes coursing within me I will see the dread beast tamed!

Gerome
Take that back! There's nothing dreadful about her! Minerva is just a great big cuddle monster. What's more, she's like an extension of my body. I'd no sooner lose her than an arm. She is not some animal to be tamed.

Owain
You've driven us to impasse, my miserly cohort! Now is the time to be reasonable—stop idly idolizing me and contribute to my glory!

Gerome
I cannot begin to fathom what that's supposed to mean.

Owain
Heh... Come now, Gerome. You've clearly glimpsed my true form in your mind's eye. Your raiment is but an attempt to emulate my shadow-clad guise. Admit it!

Gerome
Well, this has been a colossal waste of time.

Owain
Heh, are you truly so afraid of the awesome power silently seething within my breast? ...Gerome? Wait, where'd he go?! Heh, I knew it. The man is obviously terrified!

Gerome > Owain

Owain
Hey, Gerome. Can I ask y—

Gerome
No.

Owain
I didn't even finish the question! Yeesh, someone's prickly today... You'll drive all your friends off with that attitude.

Gerome
Then so be it. I have no need of them.

Owain
All right, then... Um, anyway, I had a question. Why do you wear that mask? There's not much point when everybody already knows your true identity.

Gerome
Hmph. I wouldn't expect you to understand. I see no reason to reveal myself to my foes. Hiding one's emotions in battle can grant a significant advantage. Not that I have need for such trickery. My true reasons run far deeper...

Owain
All right, then what about the all-black outfit? Is that so you don't stand out?

Gerome
It's a reflection of my innermost psyche, nothing more. The enhanced stealth it grants me is merely a happy coincidence.

Owain
And why the lone-wolf act? You're always running off on your own. Can't trust other people? Are you worried we're all out to get you?

Gerome
I simply see no worth in fraternizing. ...No. Perhaps I'm merely afraid of losing anyone else.

Owain
O-oh yeah? Well...fine. Last question. Does your blood ever get to boiling? Any old vendettas or suspicious amnesia?

Gerome
This isn't one of your fantasies, Owain. ...Though there are nights I am gripped with a sense of...foreboding. Heh... Laugh if you will. I fear even I don't fully understand the darkness that dwells within me...

Owain
Man, this is SO unfair!

Gerome
Huh? What now?

Owain
When YOU say all this stuff, it sounds amazing. But me? Oh no, not me! Nobody takes ME seriously at all. Ugh. You...you show-off!

Gerome
Show-off?!

Owain
Just you wait! I'll show you one of these days! I'll show everyone! *sob*

Gerome
What in the...? I don't understand that boy, and I don't think I want to...

Owain > Laurent

Laurent
Hmm? What have we here? This is quite the stack of papers. A manuscript, perhaps? ...... ...Fascinating.

Owain
Hey, Laurent?

Laurent
Good day, Owain. I take it from your tone you had a question?

Owain
Yeah, have you seen a stack of papers? Around yea high, tied with a string like... Like the one you're holding there! Perfect! Thanks for finding it, Laurent!

Laurent
Ahh, then you are the author. Perhaps obviously, in retrospect. It makes perfect sense and yet it remains utterly inscrutable. How curious... *flip*

Owain
H-hey! Quit leafing through it! That's private! Give it back! Come onnn! Hey, no fair hiding it behind your back!

Laurent
What is entry two on page 34?

Owain
The genesis of the Ebon Pinion, the unholy lance born in the clash of seraphs and— WHY AM I TELLING YOU THIS?!

Laurent
Yet another of the many disturbing questions this document raises. ...Though I will grant that its contents are, the very least, very YOU, Owain. Have you considered your..."talents," if you will, might be suited to writing fiction? The world could use a few more farces to lighten the mood in these dark times.

Owain
Hey...

Laurent
In any case, I shall return this. Thank you for sharing, Owain.

Owain
What? S-sure...

Laurent
Truly, the depths of your...knowledge? Imagination? Odd, infantile fantasies? Regardless of the label, they're astounding. You are a wonder, sir.

Owain
They're not just idle fantasies, I'll have you know!

Laurent
Quite. They've crossed well beyond the bounds of simple delusion. My apologies.

Owain
Apology...accepted? Wait a minute.

Laurent
Indeed, it's possible that... Hmm, yes. Yes, how fascinating. Simply marvelous!

Owain
I'm not one to talk, but sometimes I worry what's going on in that guy's head...

Laurent > Owain

Laurent
Might I have a moment, Owain?

Owain
Oh, hey. Thanks again for finding my noteboo—er, holy prophecies. Of light.

Laurent
Think nothing of it. Now, after our previous discussion, I've arrived at a startling new hypothesis.

Owain
Uh-oh...

Laurent
Perhaps you are correct, and your writings are not idle fluff and fancy. Well, perhaps they began as such, but that's immaterial to the issue at hand.

Owain
Where are you going with this, Laurent?

Laurent
Put simply, the possibility exists that your head is a conduit. A link to some omniscient core of wisdom, aware of every truth and law in this world.

Owain
...I'm sorry?

Laurent
Or perhaps your mind is a terminal—a gate of sorts to such a repository of knowledge.

Owain
Sorry. Words are coming out of your mouth, but I have zero idea what you're saying.

Laurent
I'm saying you may be omniscient without realizing it, Owain. Truly, only a fool would believe anything you said, given your habitual delusions. But as the saying goes, where better to hide a tree than in a forest? And I can think of a few thickets thicker than you, Owain. Truly, the gods are crafty...

Owain
Wait, wait. Laurent, I don't...wait. Everything in that notebook is just idle fantasy. Er, I mean, not IDLE fantasy, but...

Laurent
No, not idle fantasy. Your fertile imagination has come aligned with creation itself. You speak raw truth!

Owain
Yes, but no. It's not... Laurent, I'm just...

Laurent
Owain! You must allow me to open that miraculous head of yours! FOR SCIENCE!

Owain
What?!

Laurent
Even if it fails to yield a path to the root of all knowledge, it may give us some hint... A sign. A sigil. Any minor abnormality could prove the key to all the world's mysteries!

Owain
You're insane! Absolutely not! That sounds super painful and more than a little fatal.

Laurent
Indeed. A tragic but wholly acceptable sacrifice in the quest for primordial truth.

Owain
Now wait just a— Acceptable sacrifice?! You're deranged! And this is ME talking...

Laurent
Ha ha! It was only a jest, friend. Even I'm not so far gone that I would split an allies' head for research purposes.

Owain
...Really?

Laurent
You have my word. Though, should tragedy befall you in battle, leaving you dead or...close enough... I assume you'd not object to your remains being used for the betterment of mankind?

Owain
Don't even joke about it! And what do you mean, "close enough"?! ...I'm outta here!

Brady > Gerome

Brady
Man, I didn't even know stuff like this existed! Hmm...

Gerome
We're in combat here. There'll be time to read later. What is that, anyway? The cover is awfully gaudy.

Brady
What, this? It's Anna's catalogue.

Gerome
...Catalogue?

Brady
Yeah, like a list of all the stuff she sells. She's givin' 'em out for free. There was a stack sittin' by the entrance to the springs. It's pretty amazing, honestly. She's got at least three of everything.

Gerome
...Everything, you say? Truthfully?! Would that include, say...gentlemen's masks?

Brady
What, you're buying MORE? Just how many of them things do you need? Anyway, let's see... Yup. Here we go. Page 316: "Masks for Him."

Gerome
...You have my thanks, Brady. Hmm, an impressive selection. And all of them of fine quality...

Brady
Told you, didn't I? Let's see... Hey, the necklace they've got paired with that mask is great. Sophisticated but not over the top, ya know? Be perfect for high tea...

Gerome
It says here there's a special feature on that piece on another page.

Brady
No kidding?! Er, you mind if I flip to it?

Gerome
Be my guest.

Brady
Thanks! Sorry. I'll be quick. Let's see... Ah! Here we go. Oh yeah, that's a beaut. Hmm. Whaddya think? Could I pull it off?

Gerome
I think it would suit you well.

Brady
No kiddin'? Hmm... Maybe I should go for it.

Gerome
The price is quite reasonable. It seems a fair deal to me? Any objections if I turn back the page while you decide?

Brady
Goin' back to look at those mask again? Sure, whatever.

Gerome
...What are your thoughts on this one here?

Brady
Not bad. The color ain't flashy, but the craftsmanship's obvious. I'd say it's pretty slick!

Gerome
Right?

Brady
Hmm... This is tough...

Gerome
Indeed it is...

Gerome > Brady

Brady
Hey, Gerome! The stuff we ordered just arrived!

Gerome
What?! That's...impressive or frightening. I'm not certain which.

Brady
Yeah, I doubt anybody but Anna's people would deliver to a place like this.

Gerome
Instantly. In the middle of combat.

Brady
Hey, check me out! Looks good, yeah? The color really works with my hair. I can't wait to show this thing off!

Gerome
Mm, and this mask's luster is even finer than I'd hoped. Print doesn't do it justice.

Brady
Never expected to wind up shopping, considerin' we came here to fight...

Gerome
If not for the wrathful undead, this would make for a pleasant vacation.

Brady
Heh, I didn't think the V word was even in your vocabulary. But you're right. Hanging around a place like this, it's easy to forget we're at war. All the fighting seems a million leagues away. Like it was all a bad dream.

Gerome
I was thinking the same... Not exactly a boon for morale, I fear. That aside, I'm surprised to find us so much in agreement. It's rare our opinions align.

Brady
Yeah, well, it's rare we'd even talk. You and me ain't exactly social types.

Gerome
True.

Brady
I guess the hot springs are to blame for that too. It's hard NOT to cut loose a bit.

Gerome
Yes, though we'd best put fun aside for now. Our foes have waited long enough.

Brady
Right. Whaddya say we fix that, you and me? Then we can have a nice, long soak and see about scarin' up some dinner!

Gerome
Sounds like a winning plan. Let's get to it!

Brady
Right behind ya!

Cynthia > Kjelle

Kjelle
Mm... A dip in the springs sounds nice. I'm not about to lower my guard entirely, but the occasional break is important.

Cynthia
You said it! Especially for you, Kjelle. Your shoulders must be one big knot by now!

Kjelle
You can tell?

Cynthia
It's not hard to guess! You practically sleep in that armor. I doubt I could even walk in it, let alone fight!

Kjelle
Indeed. It's like an extension of my body by this point. And wearing it makes me feel...at ease, somehow. Growing up, we never knew when the next attack was coming. We couldn't relax if we weren't armed to the teeth. And even then...

Cynthia
Yeah...

Kjelle
Anyway, I've kept up the habit, even after coming back to this time. But I won't lie. There are times when it takes its toll on the body... Which is why I'm all for a nice, long soak. Once the battle's over, we can all hop in.

Cynthia
What did you say? Just now, you...

Kjelle
What, did I say something strange?

Cynthia
Well, no, but yes. It wasn't strange, which is what made it so strange. Er, I mean... It's just awfully rare to hear you talk about wanting to do anything with the rest of us.

Kjelle
What?! What's that supposed to mean? Am I some kind of sad, lonely outcast to you?!

Cynthia
Not sad and lonely so much as...stern, maybe? I mean, take the other day, when we were sparring and you knocked me on my rump. You walked up to me and just kind of sneered down at me like... "Ugh." Or something like that, anyway. But you get the general picture.

Kjelle
D-don't be ridiculous. I've never made any such sound, and I don't scowl like that!

Cynthia
Really? Because I thought I pretty much nailed it.

Kjelle
Well, you thought wrong! ...Even I want to spend time with others every once in a while, all right?

Cynthia
Well, color me surprised!

Kjelle
...... But no... You're right. Maybe it's best if I didn't join you all this time around.

Cynthia
Huh? Wait, what? Why?

Kjelle
Don't worry about it. I'll just wait until you are all done.

Cynthia
Hey, no! Don't do that! What's wrong? Why the sudden change?

Kjelle
Sorry, I, um... I should get back to the fight.

Cynthia
Don't be like that, Kjelle...

Kjelle > Cynthia

Kjelle
She must think I'm a complete freak... Still, it's best for everyone if I don't join the others. Not when she's around...

Cynthia
Kjelle!

Kjelle
Cynthia? What is it?

Cynthia
I... I'm really sorry, Kjelle...

Kjelle
Wh-what? Why? What for?

Cynthia
I just remembered... Kjelle, I know what you're doing. Why you're hiding from me.

Kjelle
What? Hiding? I'm not hiding anything. I just prefer to bathe in peace and qui—

Cynthia
That's not true! It's because of me... It is, isn't it?

Kjelle
......

Cynthia
You're trying to protect me. Again. But it's the scar on your back, isn't it?!

Kjelle
What? That's ridic—

Cynthia
Don't look away from me, Kjelle! You're worried that I'll feel guilty if I see the scar from when we were kids. That Risen's dagger should have killed me, but instead it shredded your poor back...

Kjelle
...... I did what I did because I wanted to. It was my choice, and I'd do it again in a minute. ...But ye, I was hoping you'd forgotten. I didn't want you blaming yourself again.

Cynthia
Does it still hurt?

Kjelle
Not at all. Hasn't for years. So really, let it go, Cynthia.

Cynthia
Good... But still, that's a scar that'll never go away. Your poor skin... I'm sorry, Kjelle. I... I'm sorry... I'm... *sob*

Kjelle
Cynthia, that was years and years ago! Why are you crying about it now?

Cynthia
B-because! It's just... It's not... *sob*

Kjelle
*Sigh*... You always were a big crybaby. This is exactly why I didn't want you to remember. Really, Cynthia, that's all ancient history. Now come on, chin up. Look at me.

Cynthia
B-but!

Kjelle
Still won't believe me? Fine. There is a way to take the scar off my back if it means that much to you. It isn't easy.

Cynthia
What? There is?! I'll do it! Just tell me what to do!

Kjelle
Become a hero.

Cynthia
Huh?

Kjelle
And I mean a real one. Strong enough to keep me and all the others safe. Do that, and my scar will stop being a scar and turn into a badge of honor. Proof that I saved the life of the greatest hero of my generation.

Cynthia
A badge of...

Kjelle
You and I are stronger than a little scar, Cynthia. We may not be able to erase it, but we can change its meaning. So if you really feel bad about it, get to work, hero.

Cynthia
Kjelle, I... I'll do it. Just watch! I'll be the greatest hero the world's ever known!

Kjelle
Heh heh. Well, it sounds like you've got your work cut out for you then. It's a long, hard slog to becoming everybody's hero. How about you start by being mine?

Severa > Lucina

Severa
*Sigh*

Lucina
Was that a good sigh or a bad sigh, Severa?

Severa
Oh, Lucina. Hello. I was just caught up in watching the steam rise off of the pools. It's mesmerizing.

Lucina
It really is.

Severa
Brings up all sorts of memories... I don't need to tell you that most of them from the future aren't happy ones.

Lucina
Yes, I...I can imagine.

Severa
When we arrived in this time, my first thought was wow, our parents had it easy. I mean, just look at all they have. We grew up on the tales of their struggles, but old war stories are always embellished.

Lucina
......

Severa
But then I took a closer look and saw them working harder than we ever did. They're even more amazing than the stories make them out to be.

Lucina
I agree completely. We still have so far to go before we can call ourselves their equals. Each day, I'm reminded that we're still just children.

Severa
Excuse me? What are you babbling about? YOU don't count. You're an exception.

Lucina
Sorry?

Severa
You're freakishly strong, smart AND charismatic. I guess that's breeding for you.

Lucina
Oh, I'm hardly...

Severa
Ugh, and modest. Just stop already.

Lucina
...Just between us, there are times when I really struggle.

Severa
What, really?

Lucina
Of course. Any boons aside, the exalt's bloodline brings with it a crushing weight. Not a day goes by that I do not flinch under the weight of others' expectations. Or still worse, my own.

Severa
Huh. Even the mighty Lucina has her moments of doubt.

Lucina
I'm only human. Still, I try my best to see my lineage as an opportunity. To do good. To make change. Heh, that's something I inherited from my father, as much as the blood we share.

Severa
Hah, the resemblance is apparent. I wonder if that optimism isn't the real legacy of the exalted line.

Lucina
Perhaps... I would be proud if it were so.

Lucina > Severa

Severa
*Sigh*

Lucina
Again, Severa?

Severa
More like still. Mostly I've decided to stop bothering to hide it around you.

Lucina
Hide what, exactly?

Severa
You're not the only one with insecurities. Or a full-blown inferiority complex...

Lucina
What? Why should you feel inferior? You're Cordelia's daughter. She's hailed as a genius, and those doing the hailing are impressive enough as it is. No daughter of hers has any cause to feel inadequate.

Severa
Yes, I'm quite familiar with my mother's talents, thanks. That's just the problem. I failed to inherit any of them. I try and I try, and still I feel I'm just barely keeping up...

Lucina
Severa...

Severa
But I can't even get anyone to acknowledge my effort, either. Whatever I do, it's because I'm the great Cordelia's daughter. That's how it's always been. Oh, sure, swans are all beauty and grace above the water's surface. Nobody bothers to notice they're flailing their legs like mad just to keep afloat...

Lucina
In the old story, it's the little swan that has the most trouble seeing how beautiful it is.

Severa
Yup, that's me! An ugly duckling! Except I'm not going to magically grow up to be like my mother...

Lucina
I'm sorry, I didn't mean... That was thoughtless of me.

Severa
No, it's fine. You're right. Anyway, now you know. That's all I needed, was one person to—

Lucina
No. If I'm the only one who knows, let me be the first to say this.

Severa
...Huh?

Lucina
Severa, your strength is a product of your own hard work and dedication. Cordelia is an amazing woman, but you have a light in you wholly distinct from hers. I've seen it with my own eyes time and again in the battles we've fought, past and future. I'm sure the others have as well. And I hope they can see where the credit for that lies.

Severa
Lucina... Thank you. It feels good to hear that, especially from you. I feel...vindicated. Would you maybe want to do this again sometime? Talk, I mean. Just us two? We can unload all our pent-up complaints about our perfect parents!

Lucina
What?! I...I don't have any complaints about mine...

Severa
No? You're no fun at all. Well, whatever. You can sit there and listen to me, then. I've got enough for both of us!

Lucina
Ha ha. I don't doubt it...

Severa
All right, let's hurry up and get through this battle. Then it's into the bath for some girl talk!

Morgan (M) > Inigo

Morgan
......

Inigo
Uhh, Morgan? Everything all right? You're just staring off into space.

Morgan
Oh, Inigo! Sorry. I was just running through strategies in my head. If I can come up with something good, it'll help lighten my mother's load.

Inigo
Aw, that's great. Here, let me help. I'm all for helping out Robin!

Morgan
Wow, Inigo, I'm impressed! It doesn't stop you even if she's someone's wife or mother, does it? Still, I'm afraid I can't let you have her. Got to keep the family peace. You understand.

Inigo
Umm... I'm not sure YOU do? I think you've misunderstood my intentions here. I really just meant to help out as a friend and fellow soldier.

Morgan
Oh, really? Gosh, I'm sorry. I just assumed you were doing your usual gigolo thing. In that case, I'd love your help!

Inigo
Sheesh, what kind of animal do you take me for? Actually, don't answer that. What sort of plan did you have in mind?

Morgan
I was thinking of hitting the spring with lightning.

Inigo
What?!

Morgan
I was just reading a while ago about how lightning travels through water! If that's the case, then zapping the water should leave all the bad guys crispy, right?!

Inigo
Yeah, and most of the good guys too! No, no way. We are NOT doing that. Gah, I can just see them all floating in the springs now... Is that what you want?!

Morgan
Hmm. I suppose not. Oh well. Better keep thinking, then.

Inigo
Phew, I'm glad I stopped to ask...

Morgan
Ooh! What about using flame magic to bring the pools to a boil?! We'll stew the Risen and end this battle in one fell swoop!

Inigo
Bleh, most disgusting soup ever... Can we find a plan that lets us win and still actually enjoy the baths afterward?

Morgan
Hmm, good point. I don't think I want to go for a soak in undead stock. Something else, then... This is pretty tough!

Inigo
I think it's great your ideas are so...unique, Morgan. But, um... Perhaps they're a bit TOO imaginative? And by that I mean sociopathic. Have you got anything a little more, I don't know, normal? Something nice and basic?

Morgan
Something basic... Ooh, I know! Yes, that's perfect! You gave me just the answer I was looking for!

Inigo
I did? Dare I even ask?

Inigo > Morgan

Morgan
All right, so maybe Operation Play-Dead-in-the-Hot-Springs wasn't so perfect...

Inigo
Yeah, the part where our allies all thought we were dead was kind of a glaring flaw.

Morgan
Rgh, and here I thought we'd really nailed it this time! We'd just float there, still as a log, waiting in ambush... Then as soon as the Risen were fool enough to think we were dead and came near... POW! Tricking your enemies into lowering their guard is introductory strategy. Super basic. Plus it had the added bonus of us enjoying a soak in the baths for a while too.

Inigo
...Except our allies got to us first, and we got violently dragged out of the water. And it turns out having a ton of healing spells cast on you when you're not hurt? Leaves a guy kind of nauseous...

Morgan
Yeah, no kidding... But the worst was seeing my mother bawling her eyes out.

Inigo
Yeah, I think it's safe to say this plan was a dud. We had everyone worried.

Morgan
I'm sorry, Inigo. It's bad enough my strategy stunk. I didn't mean to get you in trouble too...

Inigo
Huh? No, don't apologize! I only went along with the plan because I also thought it would work. I should be the one apologizing. I said I'd help and then hardly did a thing.

Morgan
Well, I thought you were a huge help. I really appreciate your advice, Inigo. Plus it was a lot of fun brainstorming with you!

Inigo
Heh, yeah? Well, good to hear it. Today was kind of tragic, but we won't give up. You'll be putting Robin out of work with your brilliant strategies soon enough! Maybe I should start reading up on tactics myself...

Morgan
You mean it?! As it just so happens, I have a title I would absolutely recommend! And the margins are full to bursting with my mother's notes! It's incredible. If you're interested, I'd be happy to lend it to you!

Inigo
Really? Sure, thanks!

Morgan
No problem! I've got it stowed right... Oh.

Inigo
Wow, that's certainly...wet. You, uh...you had this on you when we were soaking in the springs, didn't you?

Morgan
Yes... Yes, I did. Ugh, it's swelled up to three times its size.

Inigo
The text is bleeding everywhere too. And this was annotated? Sounds important...

Morgan
Oh, it's all right, actually! I have a spare—an exact copy.

Inigo
Wait, seriously?!

Morgan
Yup! I'm kind of a klutz, so I try to be prepared for every eventuality. I'll lend you that one once we get back to camp!

Inigo
Well, that's a relief. Though it's kind of sad that you EXPECT these sorts of accidents... Still, glad to hear it wasn't irreplaceable! Anyway, thanks, Morgan. I promise I'll take good care of that copy.

Morgan (M) > Brady

Brady
Hey, Morgan. Still no luck with them memories of yours?

Morgan
Not yet, I'm afraid.

Brady
Sorry to hear it. Hopefully soon, though. You tried different ways of jogging it? Shock therapy and all that?

Morgan
More than I probably ought to have! I've tried falling from great heights, hitting my head against walls, you name it. Still no memories, and probably a few hairline fractures for my trouble...

Brady
That sounds like an awful lot of shock and not much therapy. You gotta be careful. Well, anyway, I just... Oh! Why not try going for a soak after we nix these Risen?

Morgan
Sure, but...why?

Brady
Hot springs are supposed to be good for your health, right? Maybe they can fix whatever's wrong with ya.

Morgan
An interesting theory! Leave it to an expert healer to bring in fresh ideas!

Brady
I've actually been studyin' the therapeutic effects of spots like this for a while now.

Morgan
Oh, right! I saw a sign nearby that bore a list of them!

Brady
They're good for all kinds of ailments. Muscle stiffness, joint pain, circulation, you name it.

Morgan
Hmm, no, I recall it mentioned something else... Ah! That's right, it was "highly effective against amnesia"!

Brady
What?! You serious? Then what are you doing? Get in there already!

Morgan
You think I should submerge myself head first for a while?

Brady
Uh...why don't you start by just bathin' like a normal person...?

Morgan
Ooh! Another novel insight!

Brady
I'd say your plan was a lot more novel than mine. Also dumber. So where'd you see that sign, anyway? Which spring was it? Let's go for a dunk!

Morgan
What, together? Wait, are you hunting after lost memories too? Are we brothers in oblivion?!

Brady
No, you nutball. I'm comin' along to make sure you don't drown yourself! Now c'mon, let's go! March!

Morgan
Yes, sir!

Brady > Morgan

Brady
So where's this spring that's supposed to cure amnesia at already?

Morgan
Hmm, we should have found it by now... Where did I see that sign?

Brady
It's weird that we've been looking this long and still haven't found nothin'.

Morgan
Agreed... Maybe it was just a mirage? A trick of the steam? ...Or maybe it's hidden.

Brady
Hmm, it's a possibility. This IS a mystical spring that cures memory loss, after all. Maybe it's little wonder we can't just waltz right up to it.

Morgan
Well, that presents quite the quandary! What do you think we should do?

Brady
Ain't it obvious? We wipe out the Risen, then take all the time we need to find it!

Morgan
What? I can't ask you to spend that kind of time on me!

Brady
It's my time to spend how I like, ain't it? This place could hold the key to getting all your memories back. Besides, you're my... You know, we're allies or whatever! It's fine!

Morgan
Wow, Brady. I'm a little surprised to hear you say that. But it's a good surprise! I really appreciate it! Thanks, Brady!

Brady
Yeah, don't mention it.

Morgan
...Ahh! There! There it is!

Brady
You found it?! Seriously? Nice work!

Morgan
Yes, just behind those rocks! That's the sign there. I'm sure of it!

Brady
Let's have a look. "Therapeutic benefits of spring bathing"... Stiff joints...check. Circulation...check. Hey, what gives?! It doesn't say a damn thing about amnesia!

Morgan
It doesn't? Huh... It doesn't. How odd. I'm sure this was the sign... Oh well. I must have misread it, hah!

Brady
Haw?! How do you misread "stiff joints" for "cures your weird brain problems"?! Yeesh, and here I went and got my hopes up...

Morgan
Sorry about that... I suppose it was wishful thinking on the part of my subconscious.

Brady
Well, your subconscious just wasted a chunk of our day.

Morgan
Be that as it may, I still think going for a soak sounds like a fun time!

Brady
Yeah, I guess it does. All right, c'mon. Let's cream these Risen, then kick back!

Morgan
Count me in!

Morgan (F) > Cynthia

Cynthia
I STILL don't see why they had to yell at us like that!

Morgan
Well, I suppose we might have gotten just a teensy bit out of hand... Not that we can really be blamed, this being our first time at a hot spring and all. But I guess I can kinda, sorta, maaaybe see where they are coming from.

Cynthia
Oh, don't be ridiculous. That was just a bit of innocent fun! All we did is barely touch the water and make a few ripples.

Morgan
Well, yes, at first...

Cynthia
All right, granted, then we started splashing each other a little. And then kind of a lot, and then we were both completely soaked.

Morgan
...Along with everyone near us. In retrospect, that was probably where we crossed the line.

Cynthia
Oh, they were having fun too. You could see it in their faces!

Morgan
Well, yes... But I don't think the fact that we dragged them into our fun was the issue. It was probably more of a "let's take care of the murderous undead first" sort of thing.

Cynthia
Hmm. Okay, that one's a fair point. But still, that's no reason to gang up on us!

Morgan
A fair objection. If they were all joining in by the end, it's hardly fair to just blame us.

Cynthia
There's only one thing for it, Morgan. As soon as the fighting's done, we'll play the mother of all pranks on them!

Morgan
The mother of ALL pranks?

Cynthia
All of them. And with my heroic charisma and your brain for strategy, it'll be a cinch! I call it Project Prankmaster Extreme!

Morgan
Wait, how exactly does your charisma figure in to coming up with a plan?

Cynthia > Morgan

Cynthia
All right, Morgan! Let's cook up this plan!

Morgan
Wait, you were serious?

Cynthia
Of course! You're studying tactics, right? Well, this is the perfect chance to put what you've learned to constructive use!

Morgan
Well...all right. I suppose it can't hurt. ...Much. But if I'm doing this, I'm going all in. No pulled punches! It's finally time to put this annotated strategy tome of Father's to use!

Cynthia
Whoa! You literally just pulled that out of your sleeve! I've never seen anyone do that. It looked totally awesome! Very "secret weapon."

Morgan
Y-you think? Thanks. I was hoping it would look kind of neat. Heh heh... Truth be told, I also have something in this one! ...YOINK!

Cynthia
Wooow! Another strategy manual from the other sleeve?! Wait, no, it's...the same one again? Um, Morgan? Why do you have two copies of the same book?

Morgan
Whoa, you're totally right! They ARE the same!

Cynthia
You're just realizing this...? You know, I could never quite tell—are you a genius or a total airhead? Anyway, what's our plan of attack? Any thoughts?

Morgan
Hmm... We could dig out some of the muddy ground and make a pitfall?

Cynthia
So it's the old slip, trip, THUNK! Classic! I like it!

Morgan
Then we can use the steam off the baths as cover while we switch the signs around. We'll label the men's bath for women and the women's bath for men!

Cynthia
HAH! Just thinking about it has me in stitches already! You ARE a genius, Morgan! I don't know how you come up with this stuff!

Morgan
You really think so? Hee hee, gosh...

Cynthia
All right, it's settled! As soon as combat's over, we'll put our plan into action! We just have to clear out these...enemies... Hmm.

Morgan
Something wrong, Cynthia?

Cynthia
I was just thinking: We've got this amazing plan—why not test it out on the Risen first? It'd be a shame to try it for real later and have something go wrong.

Morgan
Ooh, good point. We can use these guys to run a proof-of-concept test! Actually, wait a second... Why don't we just do it against the Risen and call it a day? I'm pretty sure if we try it with the others, they'll just wind up yelling at us again...

Cynthia
They SO would. I'll say it again, Morgan: genius!

Morgan
The more I think on it, the more this seems like a way better idea than before. And there will be plenty of other opportunities to prank the others!

Cynthia
Agreed! Now let's snare us some Risen and get the others to gush about how amazing we are!

Morgan
It's a plan!

Morgan (F) > Severa

Severa
Phew... That last one was tough.

Morgan
Sure was! ...Pfft, ha ha ha ha!

Severa
Huh? What in the world are you laughing like a lunatic about?

Morgan
Ha ha... S-sorry. I just... *snort* Paaah ha ha ha!

Severa
Get ahold of yourself, would you? And I'm still waiting on that explanation! We're in the midst of combat here. I'll thank you NOT to be a distraction. Look, even Chrom is glaring at you!

Morgan
S-sorry! *gasp* I'm sorry... Ha ha... I was just...heh...just remembering a story my father told me the other day...

Severa
What?! Morgan, this is REALLY not the time to be revisiting small talk. Honestly... Sometimes I wonder if that tiny head of yours isn't just full of fluff...

Morgan
Heh, okay, okay. Sorry...

Severa
*Sigh* Well, go on, out with it. What's this story that has you so in stitches?

Morgan
Okay, so! There was this girl, and she loved this boy, but she was too shy to tell him...

Severa
And...?

Morgan
And so she started teasing him mercilessly instead. In the end, he got totally fed up! She never got to talk to him again! Ha ha! Haaa ha ha ha hee hee!

Severa
What? Morgan, that's not funny at all! It's a dreadful story!

Morgan
Maybe it wasn't the story so much as the way he told it. It was completely hilarious! Father says there's an Outrealm where people go to hear stories like these.

Severa
What's it called, the Stupidrealm? I don't know which is more mystifying—that story, or you finding it funny. ...Though I suppose that's part of what makes you so damned agreeable.

Morgan
Huh?

Severa
I mean, come on. You couldn't dream up a more suspicious character than you. An amnesiac from the future? Please. Only a fool would take that story at face value! And yet everyone around the camp totally fawns over you... It makes no sense.

Morgan
Hm? Severa...is something on your mind?

Severa
Wh-what? No! And don't go making any weird assumptions...or else!

Morgan
Hmm...

Severa > Morgan

Severa
*Sigh*

Morgan
You SURE there's nothing you want to talk about, Severa?

Severa
Morgan, I already told you—

Morgan
I promise I won't tell anyone else about it, if that helps.

Severa
I'm not... Ugh, all right, fine. I'm just...I'm worried, is all. Worried that I've been...you know. Kind of a shrew. I'm always saying things I don't really mean or going on little fault-finding crusades... I worry the others will hate me.

Morgan
Ahh, so that's where all that came from earlier. For what it's worth, I don't think fault-finding is such a bad thing. Talking about people behind their back is one thing, but this is different. This is like...giving people advice!

Severa
Uh, I suppose that's one way to look at it, but...

Morgan
What's wrong with trying to encourage your friends to be the best they can be? If they get upset, maybe they just need to work on receiving criticism better.

Severa
But there's a line between speaking frankly and being outright insulting...

Morgan
Aw, we can take it, Severa. Trust me! We all love you! So stop worrying.

Severa
Oh, brother. You could at least TRY to make it believable, you know.

Morgan
It's the truth! Besides, don't you know? Girls like you are all the rage these days! Especially with the boys... *wink*

Severa
What?! ...R-really?

Morgan
Sure! Tough as nails on the outside, with an ooey, gooey damsel-in-distress core... Always cross and short tempered, making every smile shine like a rare gem... Apparently that's what the guys are into as of late. Who knew?!

Severa
That sounds like torture to me. Not that I'm complaining, I suppose...

Morgan
It's like how a sunny day after a long stretch of rain is super refreshing! Ooh, or how a nice, hot meal tastes even better when you're really, really hungry!

Severa
Hmm. I guess that kinda makes sen— ...Wait a minute. You're comparing me to floods and starvation?! Are you mocking me?!

Morgan
No, not at all! And even if you don't believe me about the others, at least you've got me?

Severa
Ugh, Morgan, you are the worst! ...Heh. Though I suppose you did help me take my mind off things. Thanks for that.

Yarne > Owain

Owain
Hey, Yarne. Got a minute?

Yarne
Wait, why are you talking like a normal person? It's unsettling.

Owain
Hey, give it a rest. Even I have my undramatic moments, all right?

Yarne
No boiling blood? No "down, sword arm!" ...Nothing? Because you're really throwing me off here. Did you forget how or something?

Owain
Heh... Far be it for the scion of heroes to leave a challenge unanswered. Nay, I shall prove beyond all doubt that the chosen one never forgets! Not even—

Yarne
Actually, forget it. Stop. Really! Please! Ears...bleeding...

Owain
You don't have to be mean about it...

Yarne
Anyway, you needed something?

Owain
Oh, right. I was just thinking back to how things were in the future. And I can't shake the feeling this era's kind of...I don't know, tepid? By comparison? What do you think?

Yarne
Tepid? Owain, just how hot were your baths?! You're liable to boil yourself to extinction!

Owain
Not the water temperature, you goon. I mean the state of the world. Our condition. Things were more intense before. Or maybe just grimmer.

Yarne
The future definitely wins for grimness, yes. Take this battle. Seems like all anybody's talking about is enjoying the springs after.

Owain
And I'm not saying it's bad. Resting up is crucial when you're fighting a long war. But I still can't shake the feeling that we can't afford to waste any time here...

Yarne
Really? I'm all for it. Any time spent not in combat is time well spent in my book

Owain
But don't you think there are other things we could be doing in the fight for peace?

Yarne
W-well, sure. And I'll grant that everything you're saying makes perfect sense... Which is REALLY throwing me off. If I thought normal-talking Owain was weird, normal-thinking Owain is just... *shudder*

Owain
All right, that's enough already!

Owain > Yarne

Owain
You know, Yarne... You and me and the others, we...we lived through a future the people in this era couldn't imagine in their nightmares.

Yarne
What? Also, we're really running with this serious conversation thing? Seriously?

Owain
Will you drop that already? Once in a blue moon won't kill either of us. Besides, I'll have you know I'm always thinking about serious things...inside.

Yarne
I...find that very difficult to believe. But go on...

Owain
Since coming to this era, we've tasted real, normal happiness for the first time. I'm worried that's dulled our edge a bit.

Yarne
I suppose that's fair to say... I know I've gone a little soft, at least. I'm only in a state of panic half the time, tops.

Owain
Right? I wonder what it is that's got us slacking off.

Yarne
Having the grow-ups back, maybe? It's easy to feel they've got it all under control.

Owain
That's the trap with parents, I guess. They always seem superhuman. But we can't get complacent. We sat by and let them protect us in the future, and we saw how that ended. Half the reason we came back was to keep THEM safe this time.

Yarne
Right. I hate fighting, and I'm reeeally not excited about the prospect of extinction... But avoiding a fight and winding up with an apocalypse doesn't do anyone any good.

Owain
We've got to do whatever we can. For the world, and for the ones we love. Heh, when you think of it that way, it's easy to get fired up!

Yarne
Yeah. Even I'm feeling ready to fight!

Owain
Heh... We are come to this era across the bounds of time, triumphant o'er causality. The next to fall before us will be the dark bonds of fate that condemn us to suffering! I'll see each link of that infernal chain cleaved open by my blade, I swear it!

Yarne
Hah! And order is restored...

Yarne > Inigo

Yarne
......

Inigo
Yarne? What are you doing? Why are you just standing there?

Yarne
There's...there's water everywhere. But it's HOT. There's HOT WATER EVERYWHERE!

Inigo
Heh. Pretty impressive, huh? I don't blame you for being awed at the sight. We never had anything like this i—

Yarne
I'M GONNA GO EXTINCT!

Inigo
Gah?! Wh-what are you...? Huh?!

Yarne
INIGO!

Inigo
What is it?!

Yarne
I'll never ask for anything again, I swear—just protect me from the bad water!

Inigo
Bad... Wait, what? Yarne, what in the world are you talking about?!

Yarne
Rabbits don't like getting wet! This place is like a scene from my moistest nightmares!

Inigo
What? That's news to me. You never seemed to have a problem wading through rivers and seawater in combat.

Yarne
Sure, but that was COLD water! This, though... This is hot! And awful! And I'll catch a chill as I dry, and then I'll DIE! ...Or worse, I'll trip and wind up floating in a giant stewpot! Inigo, have you ever heard a story about a rabbit in a stewpot that ended well? Aaah! I can't do this! I'm gonna wind up boiled and tender and delicious and extinct!

Inigo
Yeesh, Yarne, calm down. It's nowhere near hot enough to boil someone. Here... See?

Yarne
AAAAAAH! You splashed me! It's on my fur! It's hot! I'm melting! It's all going dark!

Inigo
Wow, you weren't kidding about not liking to get wet. I'm...impressed? Terrified?

Yarne
YOU'RE terrified?! What about ME?! Now come on, please! Save me from the water!

Inigo
Well, I can't very well ignore a friend begging me for help... All right, Yarne, sure. I'll protect you. As long as we're here, you can count on me to keep you safe and dry.

Yarne
Oh, thank you, Inigo! I don't care what women everywhere say, you're the best transtemporal guy I know!

Inigo
...Uh, thanks. I think.

Yarne
Anyway, thanks again! I'm in your hands for the rest of the battle! I hereby dub thee Sir Inigo, Captain of the Yarnesguard!

Inigo
Oookay, then. Heh. Whatever makes you happy, buddy...

Inigo > Yarne

Yarne
Eeep! Their sword are dripping with springwater! One swing, and the horrible stuff will come flying at me in a fatal, fur-matting spray!

Inigo
Not on my watch!

Risen
Hrrngh!

Inigo
...Phew. Well? Still dry, buddy?

Yarne
Inigo, you kept your promise! Hah, and to think I was falling over myself wi— ...Eeep! F-falling! I'm falling!

Inigo
Yarne, look out!

Yarne
NO! Inigooo! If you hadn't pushed me out of the way, it would have been I that fell in... I'll never forget you, brave friend!

Inigo
Gah... I'm completely soaked.

Yarne
Um... Are you right?

Inigo
Oh, I'm fine. ...Besides, any playboy worth his salt needs to know how to make a splash, am I right?

Yarne
I'm considering my life-debt paid in exchange for ignoring that one... But mostly, I'm sorry... I didn't think I'd be putting you through quite this much.

Inigo
Aw, don't worry about it. I made a promise, and I'm happy to keep it. What about you? I didn't get you when I fell in, did I? You all...all... AhCHOO!

Yarne
Oh no! You're not coming down with something, are you?

Inigo
I told you I'm fine! I'm plenty fit to keep you safe. After all, that's my job, right? Captain of the Yarnesguard?

Yarne
Yes, but now you're shivering. Look, it's...it's fine. Forget about guarding me.

Inigo
What? Why? It's just a tiny chill. Honestly, you're such a worrywart. I just need to move around a bit. Get the blood moving. See? I already feel b— WhoooAAA! SLIPPING!

Yarne
Inigo!

Inigo
NO! Yaaaaaarne!

Yarne
Gaaah! It's over! It's all ooover! It's hot and wet and my fur's all clingy and gross and I'm pretty sure I'm dying!

Inigo
Yarne... I don't get it. Why did you take the fall for me?

Yarne
I don't know. I moved without thinking... I guess I felt sort of pathetic depending on you to protect me all the time. No more being a dead weight, though. I'll protect myself from here on out. I promise.

Inigo
That's great, but I'm not seeing much point in either of us protecting you now. You're drenched. ...But it is rather amazing you did that for me, given how much you hate the water. So thank you.

Yarne
Heh heh.

Inigo
That said, we'll both catch colds if we stand around like this. As soon as we're done here, it's into a nice, hot bath for the both of us.

Yarne
WHAT?! B-but I... That's not—

Inigo
You're already as wet as you can get, rabbit. And you need to warm your body. Plus, it'll be fun. We'll get all the guys to join us for a soak. I'll even help you dry your fur after. Deal?

Yarne
Inigo... All right, deal! I'll brave the hot springs just for you!

Inigo
Heh. That's the spirit... Now, back to business!

Yarne > Gerome

Yarne
Gah, all this steam! The mugginess is killing me...

Gerome
You're surrounded by hot springs. Best you resigned yourself to a little humidity. ...Hm? What is that?

Yarne
What's what?

Gerome
Behind you.

Yarne
Behind... GAH?! M-m-monkeys! A whole pack of them! Why are they here?!

Gerome
Seems they're coming down the mountain in droves. That's quite the little army forming behind you.

Yarne
Eeep! What are they all crowding around ME for?!

Gerome
Maybe they think you're one of them?

Yarne
Ugh, RUDE! I'm a bunny, not a monkey!

Gerome
Tell that to the fellow picking through your back hair.

Yarne
That's back FUR, thank you very— OUCH! Hey, quit tugging, you little flea trap!

Gerome
Quite the scene, really. I don't suppose I've ever seen a monkey groom a rabbit before. It's rather charming, actually.

Yarne
I'm so thrilled you think so... Now GET THEM OFF ME, GEROME!

Gerome
What? Why? They're just being friendly.

Yarne
I'll stick with human friends! And I— ARGH! That REALLY hurts! Stop yanking at my ears, you monster! I need those attached, thank you very— OW!

Gerome
*Sigh* Fine. Hold still a moment.

Yarne
Whew! Thanks, Gero— AHH!

Gerome
Waugh?!

Yarne
It just snatched your mask and ran! Don't just stand there—after the monkey!

Gerome > Yarne

Yarne
Did you see which way that thieving ape ran? I've lost sight of him...

Gerome
Not this way, it seems.

Yarne
Don't see anything over here, either... Wait, how are you wearing your mask?!

Gerome
I keep a spare for emergencies.

Yarne
If you have more than one, why are we still chasing after a stupid monkey?

Gerome
Because. This backup is a pale comparison in quality. The one it stole was bespoke, Yarne. I refuse to cede it to some filthy primate.

Yarne
If you say so... Honestly, I can't tell the difference, looking at the one you're wearing now.

Gerome
Well, stop. I don't want anyone looking too closely. The craftsmanship is terrible. More importantly, they've obviously accepted you as one of their own. Can't you use that to get my mask back?

Yarne
Hmm. I don't really see how... Ah! No, that's perfect! Take me hostage, Gerome!

Gerome
Then what? We propose a trade? My mask for your life? I'm not convinced monkeys can be negotiated with. They can't speak, for one.

Yarne
You never know! I hear monkeys are quite smart, actually. We may as well give it a try, right? It's not like we've got a better plan.

Gerome
Fair point... I suppose we've nothing to lose. ...There! That's the one! He's still got my mask! Hurry, Yarne! Come here!

Yarne
R-right!

Gerome
All right, listen up, you flea-bitten felons! I've taken this monkey prisoner! Return that mask immediately, or the big ape gets it!

Yarne
O-oh, no! The horror! Help me, my simian cohorts!

Gerome
Hah! He's actually bringing it here! I'm not sure whether this prove they're intelligent or incredibly gullible... That's it, just a bit closer. Bring it here. ...There! Got it!

Yarne
Yes! Our plan's a brilliant success! ...Hm? WAAAUGH! AAAAAAGHK!

Gerome
Yarne!

Yarne
Oww... As soon as he figured out I wasn't a monkey, the little monster attacked me! Got me right in the face, then ran off...

Gerome
Are you all right? Injuries aside, your idea worked flawlessly. I owe you one, Yarne.

Yarne
Uh...don't mention it? Whew. I'll be more than happy to never see another monkey. I thought I was a goner!

Gerome
Apologies...

Yarne
Ah, it's fine. What are friends for, right? I'm glad you got your mask back.

Gerome
Well, thank you again. I, uh, hope your face heals up soon...

Laurent > Inigo

Laurent
Might I have a moment?

Inigo
Hm? Sure. What is it?

Laurent
You wish to become a dancer, do you not?

Inigo
What? H-how did... Where did you hear that?

Laurent
A little bird told me while I was on my daily rounds gathering intelligence around camp. To the extent of my knowledge, male dancer aspirants are quite rare. I am extremely curious to see just what manner of dance you would perform. Might I request a demonstration?

Inigo
Uhh... I think I'll pass. We're kind of in the middle of combat here.

Laurent
Indeed. Precisely the circumstances under which your mother dances. If your performance bore a similar effect, it would be a considerable asset in battle. Is that not sufficient cause to try it here and see?

Inigo
Yes. Er, no... Whichever means "no, thanks" in this situation. Sorry, but no.

Laurent
Might I ask why not? Is my logic somehow mistaken?

Inigo
No, it's flawless. As usual. It's just...I really don't want to dance in a place like this.

Laurent
A place like...what, precisely? Are there some unfavorable conditions here?

Inigo
Well...yeah. For one, you're watching me.

Laurent
I see... So my spectating is an invalidating condition. Yet you DO wish to become a dancer, do you not? I'm a bit puzzled as to why a performer would balk at the prospect of an audience.

Inigo
It's...complicated.

Laurent
I've extensive patience and no aversion to difficult subjects. I'm all ears, Inigo.

Inigo
It's just... You know.

Laurent
I'm afraid not, or else I wouldn't be asking. Now please explain this aversion.

Inigo
It's EMBARRASSING, all right?!

Laurent
...A concise response, but still inscrutable. Why ought a professional feel embarrassed? This demands further investigation. I'll not be letting you off the hook so easily, Inigo.

Inigo > Laurent

Inigo
Phew... *pant* Good. It looks like I lost Laurent.

Laurent
Have you, now?

Inigo
GAH?!

Laurent
Our little game of tag has ended. Now, I believe you were explaining yourself. Why would my watching you make the prospect of dancing here embarrassing?

Inigo
That's an excellent question. I've asked it myself many a time.

Laurent
Then you yourself don't know the answer? You don't understand your own thoughts?

Inigo
Yeah. Like I said, it's...complicated. I want people to watch me dance. I want to make them smile... But I can't help worrying what'll happen if I flop. What if everybody laughs at me? Whenever I get the urge to dance, those conflicting voices battle it out in my head. I guess I don't know which side is right.

Laurent
Ahh. So you're afraid of getting hurt.

Inigo
...!

Laurent
The paradox is solved?

Inigo
I never thought of it like that until you said so, but...yeah. I guess I am.

Laurent
Anyone would feel wounded if they put their all into something and were mocked for it. One might choose to hide their passions away to ensure that never happens. I can understand the impulse to run and hide behind a shield of bashfulness. But doing so can only stifle those passions and obstruct future growth, Inigo.

Inigo
......

Laurent
I understand that you're frightened... But why not begin to share your dance with the rest of us, a little at a time? I can personally assure you our ranks hold none who would belittle your aspirations. I include myself in that count. I support you in your dreams, and I swear never to laugh.

Inigo
Laurent. I don't... Thank you. I don't know what to say. Hearing you say that feels amazing. I feel like a weight's been lifted off me.

Laurent
Excellent. I'm glad to hear it. Now, newly light on your feet, will you share your dance with me?

Inigo
Sure! ...Does later work? Let's do later. Because I'm pretty sure we've been totally surrounded while we were talking. I'd do it now, but chances are we'd both be dead before I finished.

Laurent
...Indeed. I'm mortified I didn't notice sooner. I was lost in conversation.

Inigo
Well, we can pick up where we left off as soon as we're through with them!

Laurent
I look forward to it!

Laurent > Brady

Brady
*Sigh*

Laurent
Something troubling you?

Brady
Eh? Oh, no. Just... I ran across a guard a minute ago. He was hurt, so I figured I'd patch him up. But before I got a word in, he took one look at me, screamed, and ran...

Laurent
He thought you were the enemy?

Brady
I guess?

Laurent
A ridiculous affront. You're a paragon of kindness, constantly caring for others. A jewel among our ranks.

Brady
L-Laurent...

Laurent
Though your face is regrettably... Regrettable.

Brady
Gwaugh!

Laurent
Your menacing mien hardly bespeaks a man of the cloth.

Brady
You think I need you to tell me that?!

Laurent
Truth be told, I overheard some of the locals whispering shortly after we arrived. After seeing you, they were convinced they had been beset by barbarian bandits.

Brady
Bandits?! You gotta be kidding me...

Laurent
My apologies. I ought not have put it so bluntly.

Brady
No... It's fine. Thanks for telling me straight. Guess I'd better start thinking of ways not to scare people off anymore.

Laurent
An admirable pursuit. I wholeheartedly support it.

Brady
Not sure I can really do anything about my mug, though. Hmm... Personality, then?

Laurent
A fellow's personality can be harder to change than his face in some cases. Why not focus on appearances first?

Brady
We already established I can't change my face! Whaddya want me to do here?

Laurent
There's more to a person's appearances than just his face, Brady.

Brady
Yeah?

Laurent
Absolutely. I shall take the matter under consideration and report back soon.

Brady
All right. Thanks!

Brady > Laurent

Laurent
All right, Brady, let's see now. If you wish to give a positive impression, you ought first to rectify your posture.

Brady
My posture? I don't think that's such a—

Laurent
Tut tut! Stand straight and tall, and you're sure to present an air of gentle refinement.

Brady
...If you say so. Hnngh... H-how's this?

Laurent
My apologies. Please forget everything I've said. Return to your usual stance. Quickly.

Brady
What? Why?!

Laurent
The sight of you glaring down at me from above in condescension was traumatizing.

Brady
*Sigh* You're not the first one to say so. I tried to warn you. And besides, I normally hunch over so I can talk to women and kids at their eye level. Saves a lot of cryin' for everyone involved.

Laurent
How noble! I never suspected such an altruistic-yet-practical reason for slouching. That being the case, I fear there's little to be gained from altering your posture.

Brady
That's not all you got, I hope?

Laurent
Perish the thought. What of your tonsorial choices? A spiky haircut suggests a prickly temperament.

Brady
Maybe, but I wanted a style you don't see much, so I'd be easy for you guys to spot. Course, that means I'm an obvious target for our enemies too... But if I can be easy to find when my allies need me AND draw fire for 'em, I'm happy. I'd take that over blending in and letting friends suffer any day.

Laurent
Inspiring, sir.

Brady
So that's a no on hairstyle too.

Laurent
So it would seem. I had not realized it was such a deliberate choice. Truly, you are the epitome of a ecclesiast.

Brady
I dunno what that means, but thanks.

Laurent
However, I fear that leaves us with little room to alter your appearance. It would seem that in the end you're best served by remaining as you are at present.

Brady
What, hated and feared by strangers?

Laurent
Respected and loved by all who know you for who and what you are. I believe it only a matter of time before everyone else realizes your innate goodness.

Brady
Yeah? Huh. When you say stuff like that, somehow it's weirdly convincing. Well, good, then! I guess I'll stick with the way I am now. Thanks, Laurent!

Laurent
My pleasure.

Brady
All right, you bruise piles! Who wants some of this healing staff action first? Eh?! EH?!

Laurent
Erm, Brady? Perhaps just a SLIGHT change in tone might be in order...

Noire > Lucina

Noire
Bwaa ha ha! WRITHE BEFORE ME! Though death may overlook you, I shall not! The toll for despoiling these springs shall be paid in blood and pain! Now, come! Crash against me and be dashed like waves against the rocky shore!

Lucina
You're absolutely right, Noire. The people here won't be safe until the Risen are gone. Let's try to settle this quickly!

Noire
Aye, justice is ever swift as it is implacable, and these maggots have been judged! Let them face their rightful sentence at my hand—BLOOD AND THUNDER! ALSO, I HAVE A QUESTION!

Lucina
Sure, what is it?

Noire
...Why does it never seem to faze you when I snap?

Lucina
Snap? I'm sorry. I didn't realize. I must not have been paying attention.

Noire
No, I mean... You didn't notice anything, I don't know, different about me? When I get mad, I'm...a little scary. I speak differently. I'm basically a different person.

Lucina
...... ...What?

Noire
You don't... Wait, you really don't know what I'm talking about?!

Lucina
You're you, Noire. Who else would you be? I'm afraid I have absolutely no idea what you mean.

Noire
...Eeek! It's not natural!

Lucina
Wha— Noire?! Where are you going? And be careful running! The ground is slick here—you could slip and fall!

Lucina > Noire

Lucina
Noire, can we talk?

Noire
Wh-what about? And why do you look so contrite?

Lucina
I'm sorry about before. I only caught on after you left that you'd been upset.

Noire
Oh. Er, yes, well... It's certainly nothing you need to apologize for. It's no fault of yours that I went berserk... It's kind of a habit. Or...defining trait. I'm the one who should apologize.

Lucina
Not at all. I should have been more observant. I just assumed you were your usual happy self and everything was fine... I'm afraid I'm terrible at picking up on it when people around me are perturbed.

Noire
Er, I...I don't know that "perturbed" really covers it in my case... But you've always been that way. You only see the good in people. Even when they get mad, or make mistakes, you're the first to forgive them...

Lucina
I am? I...I never thought of myself that way.

Noire
Hee hee. Of course not. That's part of what makes it so wonderful. You forgive people unconsciously, without the thought even crossing your mind.

Lucina
Well, I can't say I've ever noticed... But if I'm doing something that helps you, I'm not about to complain.

Noire
You are. Thank you, Lucina. And don't ever change.

Lucina
My pleasure. And I wouldn't worry about changing. If I'm not even aware of what I'm doing, I'm not likely to stop anytime soon!

Noire > Kjelle

Noire
Nrgh... This steam... Every breath I draw is like...like fire in my lungs... But no... Need to...acclimate myself. Need to...be able to adapt to any conditions... I can't continue to be so frail, or I'll never be able to keep up... This is training, Noire... You just need to hold out...a little longer... *Huff* Just...*pant*...a little... Aah!

Kjelle
Noire?!

Noire
Ngh... Hmm?

Kjelle
Noire, are you all right?!

Noire
Kjelle? When did you...?

Kjelle
You looked unsteady, so I came over to check on you. Sure enough, you passed out for a second there.

Noire
And...you caught me?

Kjelle
Huh? Er, yeah. I guess...

Noire
Wow, saved by Kjelle...

Kjelle
Why do you say it like it's such a shock?

Noire
No, I didn't mean... I'm sorry. It's no shock. Just...a pleasant surprise, I suppose. It's just a bit uncommon, is all.

Kjelle
That's not true at all! I'm always... Well, sometimes... All right, rarely... So maybe I haven't ever helped you before, but that wasn't intentional. I mean, we ARE allies, after all...

Noire
We are. And I thank you.

Kjelle
A-anyway! We should get you to some fresh air. Can you stand?

Noire
I think so... But could I borrow your shoulder for the first few steps?

Kjelle
Of course.

Kjelle > Noire

Kjelle
Feeling any better, Noire?

Noire
Much, thanks to you. If you hadn't been there, I might have died...

Kjelle
That's a bit of a stretch. You can drown in the bathtub if you try really hard, but drowning in steam... That would take a special kind of talent.

Noire
I know... I'm absolutely useless.

Kjelle
I didn't say that.

Noire
It's all right. You don't have to feel bad... I'm well aware of it.

Kjelle
...... You really are a pain.

Noire
Huh?

Kjelle
To be honest, I've never really known how to deal with you.

Noire
Kjelle...

Kjelle
You're all sickly and frail, but you've got a wild temper too. Even back in the future, I always kept my distance.

Noire
I... I'm sorry. I didn't—

Kjelle
But my opinion is starting to change. Since we've been back here, I've had a lot more chances to fight alongside you. I'm starting to get a better picture.

Noire
Oh...?

Kjelle
How long were you in that steam for? You were training, all on your own. Right? You'd already been at it awhile when I first saw you, and you lasted a long time after. Frankly, I'm surprised you didn't pass out a whole lot sooner.

Noire
You were watching me the whole time?

Kjelle
Well, I just happened to walk by. I saw you and wondered how long you'd last... Anyway, it was crazy to put yourself through that without working up to it gradually. It was more like self-flagellation than self-improvement...

Noire
Y-you may be right... I'm sorry.

Kjelle
Which is why I'm going to be spotting you when you train from now on.

Noire
Spotting... You mean you'll train together with me? Really?

Kjelle
How could I not, after watching you half steam-bake yourself? Besides, after all those years spent avoiding you, I need to make up for lost time. I'd like to get to know you better.

Noire
I'm...I'm really happy to hear that. I'd like to get to know you too. So maybe... Maybe we could chat sometime. Wh-while we're training...

Kjelle
Just as long as it doesn't distract us from our regimen, I'm game.

Noire
Ha ha, you have a deal... Thank you, Kjelle.

Noire > Cynthia

Cynthia
Ooh, Noire! Perfect, I was just—

Noire
IMPRUDENCE! How dare you disturb me in the heat of glorious combat?!

Cynthia
Gah?! Wh-why are you so mad all of a sudden? What did I do this time?

Noire
Oh, n-no, you've done nothing wrong, Cynthia. I'm terribly sorry. Force of habit... It's just that you have a habit of pulling the strangest ideas out of thin air. Like the last three times you asked me to be the villain so you could play hero... It seems I've grown a conditioned response where seeing you fills me with rage.

Cynthia
What?! That's a little harsh, don't you think? I...I mean, yes, I suppose it's true I'm always asking you for unusual favors. And sure, most of the time it ends with you getting furious at me... But that doesn't mean it's fair to just skip to the part where you yell at me!

Noire
N-no, of course not... I'm sorry, Cynthia. You're right. Forgive me...

Cynthia
Hmph! Anyway, moving on! I wanted to ask you a teensy-weensy favor, Noire.

Noire
Oh? D-don't tell me...

Cynthia
Yup! Another round of hero practice!

Noire
RAAAGE! How long must you mock me before you are sated, presumptuous maggot?!

Cynthia
Hey, hear me out! It's different this time, I swear!

Noire
...Really?

Cynthia
Really, really! So please, just...just calm down, will you?

Noire
*Sigh* All right. I suppose...

Cynthia > Noire

Cynthia
So you see, this time the hero doesn't prevail by brute force.

Noire
No?

Cynthia
No! She uses a muscle far stronger than her rippling biceps—her brain! Because this time our heroine is an ace detective, ready to crack any case!

Noire
I...suppose that is different, yes.

Cynthia
Muscle-bound heroes are totally yesterday. This generation demands so much more! You need sharp senses, keen perception, unparalleled intelligence! Ahh, it's perfect! Just perfect! Doesn't that sound AWESOME?!

Noire
So, er...what are you making me do?

Cynthia
I was thinking you'd make a great victim. It's not a murder mystery without a corpse!

Noire
I'm sorry?

Cynthia
Outwardly, she seems like the perfect lady, but she's secretly a huge tramp. She's stringing along half the men in town. Plus! She's prone to wild fits of rage! So who killed her? It's hard to say! Between all the jealous men and angry gals, pretty much everyone has a solid motive... Well?! Are you totally hooked? It sounds fascinating, right?!

Noire
B... Bluh...

Cynthia
Bluh?

Noire
BLOOD AND THUNDERRR! Presumptuous creature! Who are you calling a licentious, libidinous she-beast?!

Cynthia
No one! I never said any of that, actually...

Noire
My calm is eroded most thoroughly! This ridiculous farce will not stand, woman-child!

Cynthia
Ooh! A farce! Great idea, Noire. We can set up a stage and play out the whole murder mystery for the others!

Noire
SILENCE! Now return to your post, before a very unmysterious murder befalls you!

Cynthia
Eeep! Somebody, help! Noire's yelling at me again!

Nah > Lucina

Lucina
The ground is slippery there, Nah. Make certain you tread carefully.

Nah
Right! Thanks, Luci— AAH!

Lucina
Watch out! Honestly, Nah, that wasn't but three seconds after I warned you...

Nah
I'm sorry...

Lucina
You didn't hurt anything, did you? No scraped knees or bumps?

Nah
Nope. I'm fine, thanks to you catching me.

Lucina
Well, good.

Nah
I'm a little surprised, though.

Lucina
Oh? Startled from the fall, or...?

Nah
Sometimes you have a tendency to treat me like a child, Lucina. Usually, if someone told me a wet floor was slippery, I'd yell back, "I know that!"

Lucina
Y-yes, clearly... I'm sorry, Nah.

Nah
No! Don't apologize! I'm glad you're the only person who doesn't make me mad about it.

Lucina
Oh. Er, I am?

Nah
You are. All my life, I've tried really hard to be grown up and self-sufficient. That's why it really stings when people treat me like a child. But for some strange reason, I don't mind when it's you. It's almost the opposite. Like I'm happy for the attention. Happy to know you're looking out for me.

Lucina
Heh, well, I'm very glad to hear it. Appearances being appearances, I have a bad habit of seeing you as a little sister. If it ever bothers you, feel free to mention it right away, okay?

Nah
It doesn't! At all. In fact, I'm really glad to hear you think of me as a little sister. I'm also glad to have figured out why it doesn't bother me!

Lucina > Nah

Nah
Hey, sis!

Lucina
Sis...?! Er, Nah... That's very cute, but could I ask you to drop the nickname?

Nah
What? Oh, but you said you thought of me like a sister... Unless you were just saying that to make me feel better?

Lucina
No! No, I...I truly do feel a sisterly bond with you. But shouting after each other using pet names during combat isn't... Well, let's just say it may invite confusion among the others. Can we stick to using given names instead?

Nah
Well, if you say so... Sure, Lucina.

Lucina
Wonderful. Thank you, Nah.

Nah
Oh, I just remembered! I wanted to ask a favor of my favorite new sister.

Lucina
Oh? What can I do for you?

Nah
Once the fighting is done, will you, um... Can we go in the springs together? We never had a chance to do that in the future, you know? I never even got to take a bath with someone else in a regular tub.

Lucina
Yes, I think that sounds doable. I'd be happy to join you.

Nah
Thanks! And, um... If it's not too much trouble, will you comb out my hair?

Lucina
Ha ha, certainly. It's been a fierce few days of fighting. I think we've all had to forsake some of the luxuries of personal maintenance. But don't you worry. I'll have you smooth and tangle free in no time at all.

Nah
You're the best! I can't wait!

Lucina
A little respite is nice every so often... In fact, in the end, it's these types of quiet, peaceful moments that we're fighting for.

Nah
Did you say something, Lucina? We should go. The sooner we liberate these springs, the sooner we get to use them!

Lucina
Right you are. Let's hurry and put an end to these Risen!

Nah > Kjelle

Kjelle
So this is a hot spring, eh? I didn't really know what to expect. We didn't exactly have the chance to see any growing up, you know?

Nah
Um, actually...

Kjelle
Hm? What, you did? Really? Back in our time?

Nah
Yes. Well, yes and no. I did visit one. Just once...

Kjelle
Huh! Color me surprised. I wouldn't have thought we still had anything like that left. I'm envious.

Nah
Well, don't be. It's...not a very happy memory.

Kjelle
Oh? Do you mind if I ask what happened?

Nah
I was escorting a group in charge of procuring weapons. We passed by a mountain village built around a hot spring. We wanted to stay, but our mission had to come first, so we pressed on...

Kjelle
......

Nah
Along the way, we talked about how fun it would be to stop by on the way home. ...But when we passed by again, the village was nothing but splinters and ash.

Kjelle
Risen?

Nah
Yes... There was a kind old lady at the inn who gave us lunch when we passed through. But when we came back, the property was burned beyond recognition... She was gone. They were all gone... Every one of them... *sniff*

Kjelle
I get it, Nah. You don't have to say another word.

Nah
And...being here now, I can't help but remember... *Hic* *sob*!

Kjelle
Nah...you'll just have to use this opportunity to rewrite those sad memories.

Nah
...Rewrite them?

Kjelle
Yeah. The Risen have come to this hot spring too. Left alone, they'd raze the place just the same as they did to the town you saw.

Nah
......

Kjelle
But we're not going to let them do that, are we? We'll mop the floor with them and then enjoy a nice, leisurely bath after!

Nah
Kjelle... Okay. This time I'm not letting them drive anyone off. No losing anybody else!

Kjelle
That's the spirit!

Kjelle > Nah

Kjelle
How are you holding up, Nah?

Nah
Unstoppable! They're not laying one dead finger on these baths while I'm here!

Kjelle
Heh, hard to believe you were crying just a little while ago. Just don't get carried away and damage the springs yourself, you little spitfire.

Nah
Just leave it to me!

Kjelle
You've really laid the past to rest, haven't you? It's admirable... I'd better buckle down and get serious if I don't want to get passed up!

Nah
That's a funny thing to say for someone who's been fighting like a demon!

Kjelle
Heh, flatterer. Still, I'm afraid I just can't compete with a manakete for raw power.

Nah
Hee hee, now who's flattering who?

Kjelle
Would you say that's a manakete's greatest asset? Overwhelming strength?

Nah
Hmm, I think it's the defensive power we gain when using a true dragonstone.

Kjelle
Interesting. I like to think I'm on the tough end myself, but I can't compete with you there either.

Nah
You don't have to, silly! It isn't a competition, Kjelle. We're allies! We can both protect each other!

Kjelle
...You're amazing, Nah. Pure and strong and kind. That may truly be your greatest strength...

Nah
Hm? Did you say something?

Kjelle
Not me. Now come, Nah! Let's finish off these weaklings!

Nah
Right!

Nah > Severa

Severa
Ugh, I'm SO ready to be done with this and into the springs already.

Nah
Seconded! I've never been in a bath this big before. I'm really excited! But, er...

Severa
Hmm? What's wrong, Nah? You're red as a beet.

Nah
I've n-never been naked outdoors before... It's a little embarrassing.

Severa
Oh, that? Well, yeah, hopefully we won't have any Peeping Toms around.

Nah
Peeping who?! I don't want any peeping anyones around! If I found anyone spying on us, I'd be mortified!

Severa
Well, I'm not usually one to waste my precious time on petty thieves and pervs... But yeah, we're talking about our bodies here. We'd better come up with a plan.

Nah
Right!

Severa
Sooo...any brilliant ideas?

Nah
Hmm... Well, any good snare needs bait, right?

Severa
What, you mean us? You'd have the two of us go in first? And then what, fight in the nude?! They'd see everything!

Nah
Ooh, that's a good point... Hmm. What to do...

Severa
We can't fight in the nude, and we can't serve as bait if we're wearing clothes... Aha! I've got it! You'll act as bait, and then the second our little perv shows up, you go all dragon! No need to be embarrassed about showing a few scales, right?

Nah
Ooh, I like it! That's genius, Severa!

Severa
All right, I think we're on to something here. Let's keep brainstorming and figure out the rest of the plan!

Nah
Yes, ma'am!

Severa > Nah

Nah
So about that plan...

Severa
Operation Manakete Surprise?

Nah
Now that I'm thinking it through, aren't you going to be embarrassed at being seen?

Severa
What? I won't be in the springs. I'll be hiding in the shadows, waiting for the perpetrator to arrive. Fully clothed.

Nah
Whaaat?! Then I'm going to be the only one not wearing anything? No way! That's not fair at all!

Severa
Not fair? This is hardly the time to start being selfish, Nah.

Nah
What?! You're the one being selfish! You'll still be wearing clothes!

Severa
Honestly, I don't see why we're even worrying about a plan here. A silly Peeping Tom is bound to be far easier prey than the Risen.

Nah
Maybe so, but the conditions for victory are completely different. With Risen, you just have to beat them up. With a Peeping Tom, you can't be seen.

Severa
Ugh, good point. All he needs to "win" is to get a good look at you. Hmm, seems like us girls are at a huge disadvantage here...

Nah
Well, it'll be a difficult battle, and there may be crushing losses...but we have to try!

Severa
You're right... You're right, Nah! We'll fight him to the last!

Nah
......

Severa
......

Nah
Um, Severa? Remind me who it is we're getting fired up to fight again?

Severa
It's...a hypothetical Peeping Tom...who we're not even sure exists...

Nah
Am I the only one who suddenly feels like an idiot?

Severa
Nooope. No you are not.

Post-Battle

Chrom
...Tell me we're done.

Merchant
You're done! Thank you so much for driving those icky things away. And, uh...sorry your fabulous hot-spring vacation didn't go as planned.

Chrom
It's all right. I feel relaxed just knowing we helped keep you safe.

Merchant
Well, that's very sweet of you. You know, it's not too late to soak in the water for a bit. What do you say?

Chrom
Okay, why not? I'll go get ready.

Merchant
...... ...Is he gone? Okay... My sisters are counting on me to turn a profit on this. After all, we didn't invent this Snapshot tome for nothing. All I have to do is get a few pictures of the Shepherds taking a dip in the spring... If I can pull it off, we're in business! Instant bestseller! Mm, I can small the piles of gold already. I'd better go find a good angle!

>scene change

Male Avatar

Merchant
Heh heh... They say a picture's worth a thousand words... But these landscapes I just took look more like a thousand GOLD to me! Now I just need to snap a few pictures of the Shepherds without their fleece. Knock knock. Is everyone indecent? I'm coming in!

Robin
...Finally. I've been dying for a nice, hot bath. I'll just slip these off and... WHOA! Wh-what are YOU doing in the men's bath? Get out! Out out OUT!

Merchant
Ooh! What impeccable timing! The famous tactician, Robin, ready for bathing action! Now just pretend I'm not here, and go about your usual business.

Robin
H-how am I supposed to do that when you're peeping?! Get out of here!

Merchant
I'm afraid I can't go anywhere until I've recorded this moment for posterity.

Robin
Am I going to have to MAKE you leave?!

Merchant
Ha, whatever. You're not so buff when you're in the buff.

Robin
Here's how it's done!

Merchant
...HEY! You splashed my tome, you creep! So you want to play dirty? All right, then... Ready to get gouged?

Robin
Rrrgrrph! Why, you little— T-time to tip the scales!

Merchant
*Gurgle* Pfffft! Not bad, short stuff... But I'm just getting started. Here's a freebie!

Robin
Grr... I will destroy you, peeper. Count on it!

[To next scene]

Female Avatar

Merchant
Heh heh... They say a picture's worth a thousand words... But these landscapes I just took look more like a thousand GOLD to me! Now I just need to snap a few pictures of the Shepherds without their fleece. Knock knock. Is everyone indecent? I'm coming in!

Robin
...Finally. I've been dying for a nice, hot bath. I'll just slip these off and... Oh, hello, Other Anna. Aren't you going to bathe with me and the others? You're still dressed.

Merchant
Ooh! What impeccable timing! The famous tactician, Robin, ready for bathing action! Now just pretend I'm not here, and go about your usual business.

Robin
I don't understand. If you're not here to bathe...

Merchant
To bathe? Oh, no—I'm just here to record this moment for posterity. Now hold still, baby. We don't want the important bits to get blurred.

Robin
Hey, are you SPYING on us? Oh my gods, that is low!

Merchant
And what are you gonna do about it? You're not so buff in the buff.

Robin
Here's how it's done!

Merchant
...HEY! You splashed my tome, you hag! So you want to play dirty? All right, then... Ready to get gouged?

Robin
Rrrgrrph! Why, you little— T-time to tip the scales!

Merchant
*Gurgle* Pfffft! Not bad, tiny... But I'm just getting started. Here's a freebie!

Robin
Grr... I will destroy you, peeper. Count on it!

>scene change

Chrom
...You passed out?

Robin
...Yup.

Chrom
Well, that wasn't very tactically sound. Especially when the others in the bath say you were playing with that merchant.

Merchant
We weren't playing. We were fighting.

Robin
Oh, gods, she's back...

Merchant
Lovely to see you too. You should be ashamed of yourself for wrecking my precious tome like that. There goes my nest egg... Though, at least you had something nice to say to me at the end.

Chrom
Really? What did he/she say?

Robin
I thanked her for giving us all a chance to relax and have fun. After all, it's not very often we get to show our true colors.

Merchant
That's not all he/she showed...

Robin
*Sigh* ...Can we go now?

Merchant
Heh. You're kinda cute when you blush, Robin. Anyway, dinner is ready, so why don't you all scurry over to the dining hall? A hearty meal after a nice, long soak in the springs really hits the spot.

Chrom
Great. I'm starving. See you there.

Robin
Yeah, see you there...

Merchant
*Ahem* Robin.

Robin
...Yes?

Merchant
Just so you know, if I ever get you alone in the bath again, I WILL annihilate you.

Robin
Ha! You can try!