Chrom's arm lifted on sheer instinct as some of the attacks started coming in. He was too late to prevent Ales's shot, but the Crystal Shield ability was at his command to let him absorb blows for allies. Second form or not, Garland was down.

I know, Lailah. Be on your guard just in case.

He grit his teeth, staying close to Ramza's side. If there was going to be an initial blow, he wouldn't let one of his own face it alone. "The cycle must end. Think of your son, man! What will happen to his future if you reset everything?" There was passion in his voice, edging on anger and desperation. "I have a son too, and he's waiting in crystal for the day we defeat and heal the Calamity. We have the means to speak with the Calamity through the Avatars. We just need the time!"

Silently he urged Garland to take Ramza's offered hand. It could go very poorly, he knew, if Garland did take on the form of Chaos and strike them while their defenses were down. But in his mind this was no different than visiting the Heran empire last winter. Risks had to be taken if understanding would ever be within their grasp.