Part 72: (Epilogue) All in all, this could have turned out a lot worse
Are you going back to Daein?
Yes. Everyone's waiting for us.
We'll have to start rebuilding all over again. Hopefully this will be the last time. No. Don't say "hopefully." Make it the last time. If anyone can do it, you two can. I don't doubt it. But thanks for the vote of confidence. Thank you, Ike. I won't ever forget you.
It is possible to not get this ending, since it's conditional on Sothe and Micaiah's A-support. But there you go.
Blade of Justice, Edward: Edward lived as a common townsman, despite the queen's wishes. He would often visit the keep to bring good news.
Freedom's Arrow, Leonardo: Leonardo toiled at rebuilding the army. With his proven skills and good looks, he was beset by women across Tellius.
Wise Champion, Nolan: Nolan wandered the kingdoms, saving those in adversity. Stories of his altruism eventually became legends.
Carefree Saint, Laura: Laura returned to her home's church and became a mother to many orphans, all of whom loved her gentleness.
Wandering Sage, Ilyana: Ilyana returned to travel with the merchant caravan as she had before. Somewhere, right now, she is hungry.
Loyal Halberdier, Aran: Aran served for many years as lookout in his hometown. Everyone relied on him for his honest, if clumsy, work.
Steadfast Rider, Tauroneo: Tauroneo worked tirelessly for his country as linchpin of Daein's military and a pillar of statesmanship.
Blade of Unity, Zihark: Zihark traveled Tellius as a mercenary, resolving beorc-laguz disputes. Some say he eventually settled in Gallia.
Mistress of Wyverns, Jill: Queen Micaiah ceded Talrega to Jill. Bearing her father's ideals, she made her land and people prosper.
Black Tempest, Haar: Though unparalleled in strength as a dracoknight, Haar never fought again. Rather, he carried cargo in Talrega.
Valiant Lady of Marado, Fiona: As Lady of Marado, Fiona watched over her beloved people and protected them until the autumn of her years.---
But that's... I don't believe you! Because, see, my dear, you have the mark! Wait. Don't you have a mark?
No, Mother. Lady Almedha, is that the reason you thought me to be your son? I... And that is the reason why Izuka chose me out of all the children at that orphanage. Stop! This is impossible! You are my son. I am your mother, and I say so! Lady Almedha, your only memories of your son were of him as a baby. You yourself said so. In other words, he already had a mark, even as a child. Yes, that's so. What of it?
Yep. Turns out that, for once, someone thought to be a Spirit Charmer actually was a Spirit Charmer and not a Branded pretending to be a Spirit Charmer.
What!? When I learned that you were one of the dragon clan, I began to doubt. And slowly my doubt turned to certainty. I'm sorry, Lady Almedha. I'm sorry that, though it was never my intent, I ended up deceiving you. I'm sorry, but I am not your son. P-Pelleas... But still... I was happy. It was fleeting, but... I knew the feeling of a mother's love. You have my thanks. I... Ah...sniff...---
Spirit-Charming Sage, Pelleas: After revealing his lack of royal blood, Pelleas gave up the throne but served at court, learning to speak easily to all.
Mistress of the Evil Eye, Nailah: Returning to Hatari with recent events graven in her heart, Nailah hoped to migrate her people across the desert.
Black Wolf of the Sands, Volug: Strangely, Volug was still in wolf form on the day he went home. Asked why, he said only, "It's more comfortable."
Earthbound Chorister, Rafiel: Rafiel performed a ceremony in Serenes Forest to wake his father, the king. Eventually he returned to Hatary.---
Hey, you aren't quite over the hill yet yourself. You know, I always wanted to go one-on-one with you, just once.
Hah. I would have expected you'd had your fill of fighting. I've had enough kill-or-be-killed to last me a lifetime. But something simpler, some way of testing our respective strengths... You mean controlled matches, with all the little rules they have. In a peaceful world, we need such things. Especially we laguz. Without a fight now and then, we go a bit strange in the head. That's the honest truth. I'd rather try to order a river to change course than stop a bunch of rampaging laguz!---
Fearless Lion King, Caineghis: Upon returning to Gallia, King Caineghis lost no time in abdicating his throne. Countless songs still tell of his valor.
Lion King's Shadow, Giffca: Since their youth, Giffca had been ever at Caineghis's side as his loyal shadow. He died proud of how he spent his life.
Fang of Gallia, Skrimir: Skrimir, as the new lion king, patrolled Gallia's borders vigorously, and his large heart won the love of his people.
Friend of Nations, Ranulf: Ranulf was often run ragged by advising the new king. While he winced at his duties, Ranulf still indulged Skrimir.
Gallia's Valkyrie, Lethe: Lethe later became a captain in Gallia's home guard, and pounded battle skills and fighting pride into young warriors.
Kindhearted Warrior, Mordecai: After returning to the forest, Mordecai avoided battle and lived all his days in peaceful harmony with the trees.
Finder of Secrets, Lyre: Lyre lived free and wild in the forest. She often told her young comrades of the war and the heroes therein.
Dutiful Assistant, Kysha: Kysha remained a dutiful Gallian warrior. He showed exemplary diligence, never neglecting to train--even in peacetime.---
What do you mean?
It makes sense. All the pieces fit. The galdr of release... The goddess Yune's voice... It's true. Inside the tower, I heard the voices of many hearts, and I knew. I am descended from Lehran and Altina. Misaha, the former apostle, was my grandmother. Yes, I thought so. In that case, my sister, please consider staying in Begnion. With your power and charisma, you could do so much good here. No, I'm afraid I can't. Wh-Why not? Daein is my home, and Daein needs me to help it heal and rebuild. Not Begnion. But Begnion-- Begnion has you, Empress. You will be a just ruler. Make your country proud to have you. Will I...never see you again? Hardly. I think that what our countries need now is a sense of family and friendship. I ask that you sign a treaty of alliance with Daein and announce that we are equals. I will! Of course! Once things settle down in both of our countries, that will be the first thing I do...Sister! Thank you, Empress Sanaki. ...My dear little sister.---
Holy Empress, Sanaki: Sanaki elected to guide her people in a world without the goddess, and made treaties uniting the continent.
Sapphire of Begnion, Sigrun: Sigrun was loved by her subordinates in the Holy Guard for her kindness, and guarded Sanaki all her life
Empire's Bright Blade, Tanith: Tanith was feared by her subordinates in the Holy Guard for her strictness, and guarded Sanaki all her life.
Plucky Freedom Fighter, Tormod: As Begnion's laguz advisor, Tormod labored to help former slaves out of poverty. He was busy, but very happy.
Desert's Water, Muarim: As Begnion's first-ever laguz official, Muarim assisted Tormod and supported his efforts in every arena.
Liberation's Talon, Vika: Vika became a liaison to former slaves, traveling between the cathedral and laguz district--and was loved in both.
Collector of Beauty, Oliver: Oliver followed his calling as a guardian of beauty by sponsoring many artists, especially those who depicted him.
Lion-Blooded, Stefan: Stefan gathered like-minded individuals to form a tiny, independent settlement which later became a great country.
We'll stop by Gallia, then wing straight on to Serenes. Serenes? Why there?
The Empress Sanaki has kept her promise. Serenes will be formally ceded back to us. She said we may return immediately. Ah, I see. That's good to hear. Sometimes birds change their feathers. The hawks, the herons, even the ravens. We're thinking we'll all settle down together. All this time, we've sorted ourselves by our ways of thinking and seeing and living. If we can respect each other's opinions and we learn to compromise, we can learn to live together without strife. I don't think it will be that easy, but it still ought to be simpler than getting beorc and laguz to treat each other decently. You set a good example, Reyson. All the major issues look like they'll be handled soon. The only thing we can't agree on is hunting and eating meat. The forest creatures are off-limits! Needless displays of violence as well. You know we will not budge on that. Tell me... Have you ever heard of a vegetarian hawk? Or a raptor that doesn't scream victoriously at the skies after a kill? Meat, huh? That's a thorny problem...---
Lord of the Air, Tibarn: Tibarn was chosen as the first king of the unified bird clans, and brought them great respect from the other nations.
Sky's Shadow, Naesala: Saved from the blood pact, Naesala left his people and their nation. He became a diplomat, finding atonement in work. White Prince, Reyson: Reyson worked hard as a leader in the new laguz nation. His iron resolve under a pretty face was suited for politics.
Hawk King's Eyes, Janaff: As the new king's right arm, Janaff so eagerly trained his men that he often skipped meals, weekends, and sleep.
Hawk King's Ears, Ulki: Despite being the new king's left arm, Ulki still loved solitude, spending his free time in long-deserted locales.
Mesmerizing Chanteur, Leanne: Leanne and her father made the forest echo with songs to stir pride in all those toiling to build the new kingdom.
Wise Old Crow, Nealuchi: Despite his age, Nealuchi worked hard to restore the name of the raven clan. Every year he set a new record.
Man of Many Mysteries, Volke: After finishing his contract, Volke went back to the shadows he knew so well. He was a man of mystery to the end.
Young Dragon Prince, Kurthnaga: Kurthnaga spent his days arbitrating conflicts between nations, guarding the peace so many had died for.
Wish-Spinner, Ena: Ena returned home and gave birth to her lost fiance's child. Goldoa rejoiced at the first dragon birth in centuries.
Eternal Wanderer, Nasir: Nasir served the new dragon king by observing other nations in his travels, and often doted on his great-grandchild.
Crimson Bodyguard, Gareth: Gareth was named chamberlain to the king's new nephew, and taught him with both strictness and love.Naesala and Leanne actually have a paired ending here, if you get them an A-support; sadly, though, this requires taking both of them to Endgame.
---
Yes, let us. To Crimea. To our homeland.What a meaningful scene.
---
Devoted Queen, Elincia: Elincia governed Crimea with resolve and a deep love for her people. Her reign was remembered as a golden age.
Grim Cavalier, Renning: All Crimea rejoiced at Renning's return. He chose to forego the limelight, helping the queen to keep the peace.
Protector of the Realm, Geoffrey: As captain of the Royal Knights and a model of chivalry, Geoffrey served his queen and country all his days.
Tireless Advisor, Lucia: Where the queen went, Lucia followed. Their love was fabled to be stronger than even most blood sisters.
Crimea's Keystone, Bastian: Bastian's unparalleled diplomatic skills ensured that many treaties were signed, spreading peace across Tellius.
Veteran Knight, Kieran: Kieran served the royal family with nearly fanatical verve. His voice could be heard from anywhere in the castle.
Petulant Pegasus Knight, Marcia: Marcia showed her dedication as one of the Royal Knights, ever vigilant as she patrolled Crimea's skies.
Prince of Layabouts, Makalov: Makalov remained as a Royal Knight because the empire was "too strict." Miraculously, he was never fired.
Unassuming Knight, Astrid: As a Royal Knight renowned through the land, Astrid's beauty and prowess were known to allies and enemies alike.
Relentless Halberdier, Nephenee: Nephenee lived with her family in Melior. Time and again she raised her lance in defense of the realm.
Rural Juggernaut, Brom: Returning to his family in Ohma, Brom farmed for the rest of his peaceful life. He never lifted a weapon again.
Wayfaring Country Girl, Meg: Meg had an ordinary marriage in her village and had an ordinary family. Her house was always full of laughter.
Alluring Rogue, Heather: Heather often returned home to care for her mother, swearing off her roguish ways. Yet somehow, she always had money.
Lucky Wayfarer, Danved: The war over, Danved hung up his lance and became a traveling performer. His act could make anyone laugh.
First-Rage Sage, Calill: Calill returned to running the store with her beloved Largo and daughter, Amy. Her bright smile cheered many hearts.
Scarlet-Haired Paladin, Titania: Titania remained second in command of the mercenaries. Once a year, she visited the graves of her fallen friends.
Deadly Adept, Shinon: Shinon lazes the days away in his old haunts. An expert at all he put his hand to, he chose none as his calling.
Perpetual Guardian, Gatrie: Gatrie became a famous mercenary and a household name. Fate led him to find many women but never true love.
Healing Breeze, Mist: Mist acted on her feelings for Boyd, marrying him. She cried during the vows, much to Boyd's chagrin.
Mighty Soldier, Boyd: Boyd trained daily, so as not to lose his spot to "some stupid rookie." Mist humored her husband's insecurities.
Agile Horseman, Oscar: Oscar returned to the Royal Knights at Queen Elincia's request, but still took mercenary work on the side.
Faithful Student, Rolf: Rolf remained with the mercenaries. He was always in demand as a tutor of unrivaled marksmanship.
Gentle Saint, Rhys: Rhys served as healer and opened a small chapel in a corner of their old keep. He taught school there.
Aspiring Lady of Blades, Mia: Mia set off in search of new opponents. She traveled the whole continent, but sometimes rested at Greil's Retreat.---
Well, here it is. Radiant Dawn's most secret secret.
And you're the dowager queen of Daein. I heard some of what you've gone through. I'm glad that you're safe. Ah, indeed. In light of that... Can I do anything for you? I think not. I think I have seen enough. As you wish. Well then, Lady Almedha, Prince Kurthnaga. Take care of yourselves. Yes. And you as well. I know we shall meet again!
I only did so because Pelleas said... He said that it would be wise if I were to meet with him. Did he say why? "That child," he said. It was the last gift he could give me. He wouldn't say anything more. A gift? By meeting General Ike? What about that beorc could possibly be... Wait... Ah! Wait! Wait, stop a moment!
You are... What is your name?
Soren. I-I see. That... that is a fine name. Thank you...? You're welcome. Is that all? Ah, yes, yes. Pardon me. Calling out to you like that... I was confused. Don't let it trouble you. If you'll excuse me. 
I... Sister? Because I have lost the power of my birthright, I thought... Maybe I wouldn't be able to... That I might not be able to recognize my own child. But when her own true son stands before her, no mother could fail to know. Oh, my son, you've lived and grown strong.
That's right, folks. Soren is not only part dragon, but also happens to be the rightful heir to the throne of Daein, as the son of Ashnard. Let's hope Micaiah doesn't find out. Hang on... if Pelleas knew about this, why did he give the throne to Micaiah?
To see this scene, you have to do a bunch of stupid shit. You need to be on a second playthrough, have Soren fight Micaiah in Part 3 Chapter 7, save Pelleas, make Soren fight Pelleas in Part 3 Endgame, and then have both of them survive to the end of the game.
---
Light of Creation, Lehran: At Lorazieh's urging, Sephiran lay himself down within Serenes, and was healed by the songs of the herons.---
Could it be that you were here all this time?
Alas, no, I am sorry to say. But for several days, I've somehow felt as though you would soon return.
And I am glad to see you as well, Goddess Ashunera.
How long has it been? A hundred years? Five hundred?
I see. For mortals, that is many, many lives. Yes. The peace we once had is on the verge of crumbling again. That is unfortunate. The miasma of war is beginning to shroud the world. However, I shall not again be frightened. As one born of the hopes of man I shall protect this world. Yes. Lehran. I've missed your songs. Would you sing for me now? I...I no longer... Well, then I will sing. And you may sing with me. Is that all right? ...Yes.---
And that's how you finish the game!
Well, actually, we still have a few formalities to take care of.
This song plays over the credits if you recruit Lehran (and don't somehow get him killed). It's based on the Galdr of Release and is sung in backwards Japanese. Serenes Forest has the lyrics and translation.
---
And now, it's time for that grandest of Fire Emblem traditions!
A look back at your battle records that's designed entirely to guilt trip you for playing carefully and building supports!
I'll have you know the bulk of the time in Raise the Standard was spent staring at the screen and desperately trying to think of ways to stop the Marado Moron Militia from killing themselves.
I think, based on how Fiona turned out in the end, that I can just about forgive you guys for voting to spend nearly 50 extra turns having her poke a statue of a priest with a bronze lance.
Oh, and also I had my fair share of taking breaks to make tea or some such. Ever notice how there's no way to "pause" Fire Emblem?
All in all, I think I took care of the Endgame rather efficiently, don't you?
And then comes a rundown of our units and their killcounts! I have no idea how they sort units with equal scores, but I have no objections to Laura being listed lowest.
Frankly, though, I think total killcount is a pretty bad way to "rank" units. I mean, Lehran was pretty damn useful, but he gets no credit. And even if he did get some kills, he's playable for all of one motherfucking battle. And that's to say nothing of ranking healers and herons in the same manner. Is there a good way to rank all these different kinds of units in a fair manner? Maybe.
Here's a crazy suggestion. For every unit, record the following two things; the total HP of every enemy unit in every map they've been deployed in, and their total damage done in HP. Do the same for healers, but record the total HP of allies and total damage healed. At the end of the game, express the second value as a percentage of the first and rank accordingly. That way, units who reliably deal massive amounts of damage (without being fed kills) will build up a big ranking. This does mean that late game units can clean up in the rankings "more easily", but is that such a bad thing?
Even without an Endgame spot, Vika did remarkably well for herself.
Eventually, our good units start showing up.
See, this, right here, is the problem with the system. Edward gets a massively boosted ranking just because he was a mandatory unit for so long, and is guaranteed to output a high amount of kills in the early missions.
And Ike didn't even make the top rankers. That's just wonderful.
Well, here's our top five.
Number five; Nephenee. She was probably hurt a lot by the whole thing where we had to limit her use to stop her gaining natural levels, but then she probably made up for that when she and Haar killed half the population of 4-P.
"Sallies", by the way, just means the number of times deployed.
Zihark takes place number four. He probably picked up most of these kills during part 4, especially the fight against Izuka and his hordes.
Oh, come on. Haar didn't even come to the endgame! I was holding him back until then! And he's still managed to take third place. This was probably down to the fact that he was basically the cornerstone of Part 2 Endgame. See, previous complaints about the ranking system.
Second place goes to Rolf. With it comes the definitive verdict; starting a fight with Rolf will leave you dead 124/155 of the time. Yes, Rolf has 3/5ths the battle count of the others in the top 5 but still gets a comparable body count. Rolf is awesome.
And our top ranker should be absolutely no surprise to anyone:
It's Nolan! And by one kill!
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And this has been Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn. Thanks to everyone who posted interesting stuff, thanks to everyone who voted, thanks to everyone who pointed out my stupid factual errors, and, most of all...
Thank you for reading! Maybe I'll see you in another LP sometime. Maybe.