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“So, is this the place?” Lucina asked Robin, who was examining his various notes and a map.
“Should be. After all, is it every day that we come across a city that lives within a cave of this size?” He pointed to the cave in question, which was much taller and wide than they imagined.
“I suppose. I just hope this trek wasn’t in vain.” She said.
“I’m sure it won’t be.” Chrom added, stepping in alongside her, “we just have to find this Vitae person and we should be good to go.” He placed a hand on her shoulder for comfort. “And if he’s as important as these books say he is, then if we ask someone about him they can point us in the right direction.”
Robin nodded.
“From what I could tell, it sounds like he could be a priest. Or something similar. If he’s strong enough to soothe someone as enormous as Grima then he must be incredibly powerful in his own right.”
Lucina sighed, but still move forward with the two alongside her.
They had just barely stepped into the cave itself when a cluster of lights and heavy footfall began to approach them, separate from the glow deep within the cave itself.
“Who’s there!?” demanded a voice, which made the trio and their colleagues jump.
“We are the Shepherds!” Chrom called out. “We’ve travelled from The Halidom of Ylisse in hopes we can speak with a renowned leader.”
The lights were upon them now, making it clear they were torches and were being held by a large group of guards, led by a single captain. He was an older man with a thick beard, wearing a full suit of armour just like his guards. The captain eyed them carefully up and down before scoffing.
“What makes you think I’d let you lot into our fine city? You look like the kind who brings trouble wherever you go.”
Lucina muttered something under her breath and Chrom winced.
“Please, we mean you no harm. We’ve travelled far and for a good cause-” Robin started, but the captain was having none of it.
“As if! The only reason someone would enter this mountain in this day and age would be for some kind of nefarious deed! I think you lot should pack up, turn around, and be gone before I have to kick you out-”
“Now now, captain. Calm yourself!”
At the sound of the voice the guards parted, standing to attention in two lines and allowing a man who appeared to be a priest, judging by his long gold, and white robes and impressive, ornate necklace, to step forward and stand alongside the captain. He had a calm, almost whimsical air about him.
“It’s not every day we receive visitors,” the priest continued, smiling sweetly at the captain, “and for them to travel all this way? Why, the matter must be very important indeed.”
Robin nodded.
“It is. We require the aid of who we believe is your leader. The future of the entire world could depend on it.”
The priest's eyes widened in surprise.
“Our leader? Do you mean His Ladyship, the honourable and powerful Vitae?”
“The very same.”
The priest and captain shared a look, but the group couldn’t tell if it was one of unease or something more.
“Honourable Vitae’s name is… not one many know about.” The captain said. “In fact, we thought our city was the only one who knew that name until now.”
Now it was Chrom and Robin’s turn to share a look.
“Why is it you require his aid, pray tell?”
“Fell Dragon Grima. It's a matter of utmost urgency.” Lucina answered.
Immediately the guards broke into hushed murmurs amongst themselves, as though as fearful of the beast as Lucina herself was. They were quickly silenced by a sharp word from the captain and abruptly stood back to attention. The priest was clearly shocked as well at the mention of Grima’s name, but by no means disturbed.
“That is… most certainly a reason, no doubt.” He said. “Our city does know of him very well. As does His Ladyship. In fact, he is even revered as highly as His Ladyship.”
Out of the corner of his eye, Chrom could see Lucina visibly tense at that comment.
“But to hear he is possibly doing things that could throw the world into disarray? It’s…” The priest lowered his voice. “It’s not unheard of, but it certainly surprises me to have happened in my lifetime.”
“Then, will you let us speak with Vitae? So that he in turn can reason with Grima?” Chrom asked.
The priest breathed in deeply then slowly exhaled.
“That… depends. How good are your bargaining skills?”
“W-well-” Chrom began.
“Because His Ladyship is not someone who can be easily swayed. Especially if the almighty Grima is the culprit.”
“Why?” Lucina asked, clearly growing increasingly impatient with each passing second. She looked ready to charge forward and push through to Vitae if the conversation threatened to drag on for a moment longer.
“He-” the captain started, only to quickly correct himself, “It would probably be best you see for yourselves.” He pointed to the group. “But, if you wish to have an audience with His Ladyship, there can only be three of you. Any more than that, and he may consider you too… desperate so to speak.”
The trio shifted nervously from foot to foot, with the other Shepherds behind them exchanging soft words with each other.
“Then…” Chrom said, “Then I, Robin and Lucina will speak with him on the Shepherds’ behalf.”
The priest nodded.
“Very well. Your… ‘Shepherds’ will have to stay here at our city’s entrance, but I will ensure they are given any necessary supplies if they ask for it. Be it food, clothes or medicines, they will be provided whilst you three speak with our honourable Vitae.”
As the trio walked through the city to the altar the priest said would be where they could speak to Vitae, a crowd had already formed, parting to allow them to pass but staring at the three with an odd intensity. They made sure to keep their distance, admiring Robin's robes, Chrom’s armour and Lucina’s sword with silent wonder. The city itself was a strange place, with buildings made of white stone. Some had detailed carvings on their walls, others were covered in gold. It felt somewhat similar to their own city, Chrom thought, but just slightly... off. Like he was walking through the city in a dream, but it was shifting the city into something he thought he knew, making it become muddled and confusing.
The priest and one of the guards, a woman, spoke between themselves as he gave them instructions for when they would summon Vitae. Chrom sped up so he could walk alongside the priest.
“Your people look at like they’ve never seen, well, people before.” Chrom commented, to which the priest laughed.
“Seems word of why you’re here has travelled faster than anticipated.” The priest put a hand on his chest. “I may be the person who speaks personally with His Ladyship, but even then, that’s a rare occasion. I’ve only every spoken with him once before. To have an audience with him is still considered an honour to some.”
He paused, now thoughtful.
“Regardless of if the outcome turns in your favour or not.”
Robin felt a sudden shiver go down his back and he looked to Chrom, who seemed to share the same feeling. Lucina, however, was stone-faced, ignoring the various looks aimed her way and choosing to stare up to the altar the priest was leading them to that stood within the centre of the city.
“How long will it take for Vitae to meet us?” She asked.
“Oh, not long, believe me. Especially when we sound the horn.”
“Horn?” Robin asked as they began to ascend the stairs. “Does he not live in the city itself?”
“Oh Heavens no! This city is for people, not the god we worship.”
As they continued to climb, Robin felt his heart start to drop as the small, nagging fear he’d been harbouring since they found the city began to eat away at him.
So, this Vitae wasn’t human, that much was clear now. And it seems the connection he had to Grima specifically was deep, far deeper than what they had originally anticipated.
Was it-
Could it be possible-
That this Vitae was a Fell Dragon just like Grima was? Is that why the priest couldn’t say for sure they could sway Vitae to their side? Because Vitae would never want to stop one of his own kind? Would it even be possible to reason with him at all?! Would all they do for themselves is make the situation worse by speaking with him?
As Robin’s fear continued to build, he felt himself go lightheaded and suddenly unable to stand upright properly when the trio and priest reached the altar itself and he could see properly what greeted him.
It was a gigantic, circular tunnel that cut deep into the caves’ walls. So deep was it that at a certain point, the light failed to reach further and the deep blackness of the tunnel was almost too overwhelming to look at. Just in front of the tunnel stood an impossibly tall stalagmite, reaching up from the deep abyss that was at the edge of the city.
Was... was that a perch of some kind?
Out of instinct and fear of falling over, Robin grabbed Chrom’s arm and clung on tightly. Chrom didn’t protest, placing a hand over Robin’s own for comfort. Lucina pressed herself up against Chrom as well, her hand immediately going to the hilt of her sword, ready to defend herself and the others with all her might if she had to.
“You see that? That is where His Ladyship lives, in the very heart of this mountain.” The priest smiled, but it quickly dropped when he saw the visible discomfort and fear in the trio.
He stepped towards them, calmly and slowly.
“I see you realise now what His Ladyship truly is, hmm?” He looked to the cave wall. “An almighty beast is he, one I’m sure you know as a ‘Fell Dragon’. But, if you wish for a way to deal with almighty Grima, then Vitae is the first person you should speak with. And I promise you this.” He raised a hand towards the large, golden horn that curled around the rim of the altar and to the guard who now stood alongside it, who looked to the priest and trio with anticipation. “When Vitae is called, no harm shall come to you. He is not as ‘unkind’ as you view Grima to be. After all, these people? This city? We would not exist without his aid. Either he will help, or he won’t and simply return to his slumber. But he most certainly will not reprimand you for daring to speak with him, even if almighty Grima is the subject.”
The priest paused, then placed a hand on Chrom’s shoulder.
“Good luck. May this audience turn in your favour.” He said softly, before turning to the guard who stood by the horn and nodding.
At the command, she pressed her lips to the horn, making the horn produce a loud deep tone that reverberated against the cave’s stone walls and the buildings surrounding the altar.
The air grew still and silent as if the world itself was holding its breath, awaiting the arrival of the one called Vitae.
Robin wondered how much longer time would drag on, or if it would even move at all when his thoughts were interrupted by a soft whistling of the wind that quickly grew in volume and the tunnel itself began to glow a deep red. Then, with a gentle groan and loud flap of wings, appeared the terrifying and powerful Fell Dragon the trio were dreading.
He looked exactly like Grima, right down to the colour with those familiar black wings and glowing red eyes, but his horns had a stronger curve to them than Grima’s and his body seemed to go on forever. So much so, it still had not completely exited the darkness of the tunnel and didn’t look like it was going to show any sign of stopping soon.
And then, to the trio’s surprise, the crowd that had formed began to cheer in raucous applause now that Vitae had revealed himself properly. To the sound of their hoots and hollers, he slowly wrapped himself around the giant stalagmite, gripping it tightly enough to cause new cracks to form. He looked around and over the city before his gaze finally rested on the altar. Then, he spread his wings wide and as far they would go, moving them oh so slightly in an invisible breeze.
At his command, the crowd quickly settled and the cheers stopped, with the silence returning so that not a single whisper could be heard.
The priest moved to the edge of the altar and Vitae responded in turn by bringing his head to the edge as well. Then, the dragon exhaled, chuffing softly.
I see that despite my years of inactivity, my people still adore my appearance.
Vitae’s mouth didn’t move, but his voice was as clear as day on the trio’s mind. Lucina stiffened, but she couldn’t deny that Vitae’s voice was noticeably softer than Grima’s. There was still a sense of authority and immense power there, but the lack of sneering malice and demented enjoyment was certainly welcomed.
Even then, however, she still felt on edge with how… calm he was. It felt unnatural and wrong, especially after how violent she has seen Grima be. Surely this was some kind of act?
“Of course, Your Ladyship!” the priest said with a beaming smile, spreading his arms in a welcoming gesture. “It is a great honour to see you again, no matter the circumstances.”
Ah, dearest Iran, you flatter me. But of course, you’ve always had a way with words. He tilted his head. But, why is it you desire a conversation with me? Or, he looked to the trio, is it not you but those three that demand my presence?
“Indeed.” The priest turned and motioned for Lucina, Chrom and Robin to move forward. After an agonising few moments of hesitation, and whilst still attached to one another and refusing to let go, they moved closer towards Vitae, making sure the priest stood between them and the dragon. Chrom felt himself shiver again as Vitae breathed out, ruffling his clothes and hair.
“Do I need to speak on your behalf?” the priest asked.
“N-no no!” Chrom said quickly, amazed he could even find his voice. “Just, a little shocked I think.” Lucina and Robin nodded quickly in response.
At that, Vitae purred softly, which reverberated through the trio’s bodies and to their very core.
I do not mean to push but do be kind enough to get on with it. I’m already missing my beauty sleep.
Evidently, Vitae is less serious than his counterpart, it seems. Robin thought.
“We came here to ask for your aid in a problem. A… A big problem. Concerning Grima.” He said finally.
Grima? Vitae went quiet at the name just as the guards had, only to then made a deep, wheezy har har har noise, more akin to a hiss than a growl or roar, as though mimicking laughter. In trouble once again I bet. He’s always been so prone to getting himself in a bind. What issue has he gotten caught up in this time? If he needs my aid, I will gladly give it.
“Well, it’s. He’s not the one in trouble. It’s us.”
Vitae opened his mouth slightly, surprised.
Ah, then if he isn’t in danger or at any risk, why bother? He’s old enough to take care of himself. I’m most certainly not his mother.
“What are you then?” Lucina asked, her voice the quietest. “His… friend? Sibling?”
At that Vitae laughed again, louder this time and making the ground shake.
How absurd! Our relationship is far deeper than that, my girl. He is no sibling of mine, but my beloved other half, the one I have chosen to share my mind and body with until the world and time itself falls away. He is my dearest and darling husband, and I am his loving wife.
Vitae tilted his head up, making the smile of his toothy maw even more apparent.
Perhaps your kind would call it unholy matrimony if I may be so bold to assume.
The trio stood still, not daring to comment.
But please, do explain to me what he’s been up to recently. If you know his name he must be up to something out there.
“He-” Robin started, trying to find his words, “He’s possessed my body from a different time.”
Time travel, you say? Vitae’s eyes widened, I didn’t know he had it in him! Frankly, I’m more impressed than anything else. Although the possession seems a bit much. As if I didn’t teach him how to hold a human forme. Knowing him, however, he likely deems it too much effort.
Robin looked to Chrom, practically begging him to say something that would change Vitae’s nonchalant attitude.
“He’s killed hundreds, maybe even thousands. And he doesn’t show any signs of stopping.” Chrom added, only for Vitae to shrug.
As if death is an alien concept to you mortal creatures. He has killed. I have killed. The presence of death isn’t one we are unaware of.
“He killed my parents. The people I loved.” Lucina snapped. Chrom and Robin shushed her, but Vitae only laughed, clearly more amused than insulted by her words. The priest said nothing, but couldn't stop himself from glaring at Lucina and deeming her tone inappropriate and rude.
It is in our nature as Fell Dragons to overthrow and conquer those we wish to control. I am simply more… soft about it, one would say. Grima, however. Oh, does he enjoy the thrill of battle! The bloodshed, the violence. Why would he care or bat an eye at killing your loved ones? Vitae exhaled. But I am older than he. I’ve no need for such methods anymore. Not when your kind are my opponents.
“So, you won’t help us unless we force you!?” Lucina couldn’t help herself and the words were out before she could stop herself. She felt Chrom grab her tightly, whether to reprimand her or protect her from Vitae’s possible wrath she couldn’t tell.
Vitae tilted his head again, thinking about Lucina’s words and then leaned in further, now close enough for someone to reach out and touch him. There was a sharp glint in his eyes now, and it burned deep into the trio with sudden ferocity.
What do you hope to gain in fighting someone like myself, then? Grima is strong in his own right, but my strength has always outshone his. I helped build this city, but I can destroy it just as quickly. I could kill everyone around me who lives in these caves in the blink of an eye. My voice alone is deep enough to tear you three apart like one could a piece of paper, yet I continue to be ever so careful not to raise my voice above a whisper.
He tilted his head the other way.
But, I don’t think I’ll bother in harming you. Would you like to know why?
Lucina weakly nodded.
Because I like a challenge. I want to know I will gain something out of a conflict. And you three most certainly provide nothing for me other than a measly, pathetic annoyance. I have everything I’ve ever wanted right now: a place to rest my head and people who respect me. Grima thinks he has something to gain in what he does, that he has something to prove. When in truth he’s always had what he wanted. But he will learn that one day, given time.
Chrom took a deep breath.
“And what if he can’t understand and instead of learning from the experience, it ends up killing him?”
At that the priest, who had not even flinched when Vitae openly threatened the trio or at Grima’s actions, suddenly turned to Chrom with a mixture of disgust and horror.
“You’d dare wish death upon almighty Grima?! Did you not hear what honourable Vitae had to say?! That’s his beloved husband! Is that why you came here? To find a way to kill him and not to speak with him on equal terms? I’ve never heard something so insulting, so-”
ENOUGH, Iran. You are not my mouthpiece and never have been.
The priest stopped, shocked, but then lowered his head.
“M-my apologies for speaking on your behalf, Your Ladyship.” He took multiple steps back, angry at himself for letting his emotions get the better of him. Vitae glared at the priest with the same ferocity he had prior, only for it to slowly melt away when he turned to face Chrom.
Go on my boy, what else do you have to say?
Chrom couldn’t tell if the question was a mocking one, but at least it felt like he was getting somewhere.
“If Grima dies, would that not upset you? I’d be devastated if something happened to Robin,” Chrom nodded to him, “or Lucina.” He nodded to her as well. “And I would feel the exact same way if it was my… “ Robin gripped his arm tightly. ”…My romantic partner I had lost.”
Vitae looked genuinely thoughtful, looking to one side as they took in Chrom’s words.
Do you believe this obsession of his will kill him?
“If he continues to hurt those around me as he is doing so now, then yes. And…” he paused, wondering if it would be wise to continue.
And if you must, it will be by your hand, yes?
Chrom felt his mouth go dry.
“…Yes.”
Vitae breathed out slowly, a mix of a hiss and a growl. The trio remained steadfast, shaking all the while. More cracks began to appear in the stalagmite Vitae was curled around, threatening to smash to pieces if he coiled even tighter.
Finally, he spoke again.
Perhaps I see your point young man. If I were in your position and someone threatened to take Grima away from me, I too would turn to an almighty god in hopes their words could soothe the creature who wished him dead.
He snorted loudly.
I do not care if my city were to eventually be taken from me, or my people. They can be easily replaced. But… Not Grima. Never my dearest and darling Grima. He is a unique soul, one I have promised the rest of my days to.
“Then,” Robin began, “instead of helping us, will you help him?”
Vitae tilted his head up, making himself look like he was smiling again with a gentle har har har.
If it saves him from a terrible fate, I will gladly join you in your quest. And, despite how much the three of you are ‘shaking in your boots' at the mere sight of me, I can certainly applaud your bravery at speaking to me. And with such vigour might I add. He seemed to smile at Lucina especially at that. It is clear you fear me as much as you do him. He righted himself. Middle man, you have told me your companion’s names but not your own.
“It’s Chrom.”
And you are the leader?
He nodded.
Well then, my dear Chrom, Vitae said with a loud chuff, would you be kind enough to lead the way so I can see my beloved once more?