Early morning, with the sun still low in the sky. The faint rays of the morning light glistened off the traces of dew still clinging to the stone arches and grass of the training ground.

I let out a deep breath and raised the iron sword I held in my right hand, facing off against my opponent. At the same time, I carefully watched his stance, looking for a single opening, a slight gap.

There were none.

In that case-

He moved, vanishing in a blur. The only sign I caught of my opponent was a faint yellow trail from his long blonde hair moving through the air.

Instincts flared and I swept my sword up to parry, cutting in a horizontal arc.

Steel clashed, but only briefly. Just as I managed to block the attack, Jeritza spun around, borrowing the momentum of my parry to lunge in for a thrust to my heart.

I stepped back, turning to my left, and narrowly avoided my imminent demise. Even so, the blade grazed my shirt, leaving a thin cut behind.

At the same time, there was an opening.

I swung my sword at Jeritza's exposed side-

Silver flashed.

My eyes widened and I quickly pulled my sword back to block. But it was too late.

I felt a brief resistance against my blade, and then it was gone, sent flying through the air.

Sensing imminent danger, I reflexively gathered mana and quickly retreated with a gust of wind.

The moment I did, Jeritza's sword cut through the air, leaving behind a groove in the ground from the sheer force of the blow. Realizing he missed, Jeritza looked up, madness in his eyes. His entire body tensed, as if he was going to pounce forward. But after a moment, he relaxed, a frown settling on his face.

Seeing that he calmed down, I relaxed as well. After that, I stared at my right hand… my empty right hand and muttered, "Not enough, huh?"

Jeritza sheathed his sword. After that, he picked up my discarded sword, holding it blade down, and walked forward. As he did, a dark light was in his eyes, dissatisfaction clear on his face. "You are holding back."

I rolled my right shoulder, still a bit numb from having my sword forcibly disarmed, and shook my head. "More like you're too skilled."

After a few days sparring with the guy, I was sure of it now.

If I judged my sword skill generously, I would put it at B or B+. Enough to overwhelm most students here and the average bandit or knight. But Jeritza… no, the Death Knight. He was a real master of the sword. At least S+.

I couldn't even begin to see how to face him properly. Even the few openings I saw were meaningless since I didn't have the ability to act on them.

Realizing that, I frowned. If I couldn't even scratch Jeritza, who was skilled but still human, then in the worst case of Nemesis being revived…

Jeritza stopped in front of me and held out my sword. When he did, he tilted his head and carefully looked at me, as if confused. "You… Why are you attempting to fight with different styles when you can fight more efficiently?"

I took my sword back and sheathed it at my side. When I did, I stared at Jeritza and said, "Why are you using a sword when the spear is your forte?"

He narrowed his eyes and then let out a cold laugh. "A pity that we are now on the same side. A fight to the death between us would have been ever so sweet…"

"I can get you chocolate instead?"

Jeritza paused and then said, "And yet your sugary treats are just as satisfying." He nodded. "Very well. The same time tomorrow, I presume?"

"That's right."

"…Then I will take my leave. And do not forget to send those treats, lest I-"

"Chase me down in the thick of night and drag my entrails across Garreg Mach. I got it, Jeritza."

"…So long as you understand."

With that, Jeritza left. Even so, a slim smile was on his face as he walked away.

As the fencing instructor left, Edelgard entered. She glanced briefly at Jeritza before looking at me, somewhat amused. "My. It's rare to see Jeritza smiling. Dare I ask what you two were doing here in the training grounds?"

I groaned. "You've been hanging out with my dad again, haven't you?"

Edelgard paused. "…I suppose his mannerisms have rubbed off on me a bit. Granted, it would be hard not to with his thinly veiled questions on when he could expect grandchildren…"

I coughed and averted my gaze.

Edelgard laughed and then leaned against a pillar near me. After that, she stared at me and said, "Well, my teacher. Are you ready? While I'm already aware of your worth as an instructor, this will be the first true display of your talents to everyone else."

I nodded. "We've all prepared as best as we can and I'm confident in all our skills… but I'm a bit worried about Dimitri and Claude. I've got a feeling the mock battle won't be quite as simple as we would expect it to be."

Mostly because of time travel shenanigans.

Edelgard frowned and then nodded. "You've noticed as well then, my teacher? That those two are-"

"Hey there!" A cheerful voice called out, followed by the sound of a pair of footsteps.

I glanced over to see Claude walking over, followed by Dimitri.

"Having a little strategy session before the battle, I see," Claude said. "Care if we join, Boss?"

Edelgard pushed herself off the pillar and stood up, crossing her arms. "Did no one ever tell you that it is rude to intrude upon the conversations of others?"

Claude looked at her and said, "Did no one ever tell you that it's rude to rope people into the rumor mill?" He sighed and said, "I can't even begin tell you how many heartbroken girls have come to me pleading to reconsider marrying you."

Dimitri nodded. "I know what you mean, Claude. Were it not for Sylvain, I might be in a similar situation myself."

Claude placed his hands around the back of his head and looked towards me. "You owe me one for taking a hit for the team, Boss."

I nodded. "I'll try not to scratch that pretty face of yours in the mock battle then."

"Ooh, fired up today, are we?" Claude smiled and then glanced at Edelgard. "Planning to show off a bit for your beloved?"

Edelgard shook her head. "My beloved doesn't need to show me anything. I am already well aware of his skills."

Claude raised an eyebrow. "Well… a bit too much information, but sure, Princess. Whatever you say."

Edelgard was confused for a moment, and then she turned a deep red. "You… You…!"

Dimitri sighed. "Would you not tease my sister so much, Claude? She is already in a delicate position."

"Right." Claude nodded and then winked at me. "Though I bet she'd love to be in some other positions too from what I read in that-"

"Gah!" Edelgard flung her hands down and then pointed at Claude. "I am telling Hilda on you, Claude!"

"H-Hey!" Claude's eyes widened and he said, "That's a low blow!"

I frowned. "Wait. Why would Hilda care about what Claude's saying?"

Dimitri smiled. "I suppose you would not know being so busy, but Hilda has been very insistent on getting Claude to reign back his more… shall we say colorful? Jests. After all, it would not do for the future Sovereign Duke of the Alliance to be so crude."

Claude frowned and lowered his hands. "Don't remind me." He sighed and said, "Why did I fall for her again?" He paused "Wait. None of you heard that!"

Edelgard smirked and glanced at Dimitri. "My. Was that a confession I heard, Dima?"

Dimitri nodded, a smile on his face as well. "I do believe it was, El."

I sighed. "Could you three not act like children for once?"

Edelgard froze and said, "I am sorry, my teacher. It seems I got carried away…"

Claude smiled and laced his hands behind his head. He whistled and said, "Wow. You've really got her tamed, huh Boss?"

Dimitri raised an eyebrow and said, "Like how Hilda has you wrapped around her 'delicate' fingers?"

"…Touché, Mitri. Touché. Anyway." Claude looked towards me and said, "I hope you guys are ready, Boss. I've got no intention of going easy on you today… You too, Mitri."

Dimitri nodded and looked towards me as well. "Yes. It would be a grave error to underestimate us today, Byleth. While I cannot say victory is certain, we will not go down so easily."

Edelgard raised an eyebrow. "I'm surprised, Dima. You, lacking confidence in your comrades?"

Dimitri shook his head. "I am simply being realistic. After all, if Byleth's sister participates…"

At that, the three lords fell silent and stared at me.

I scratched the back of my head.

Stella… well, in the past few days she gained quite the reputation around Garreg Mach.

As my sister, as well as the daughter of the esteemed Captain Jeralt, there was no way that she could avoid garnering attention. And then there was her adorable appearance as well, a cute girl that would become an absolute beauty in a few years once the traces of youth faded away.

In the first day, there had been a load of cadets trying to get her interest. Some eager males even tried to keep up with her in training to try and impress her.

All of that stopped when Stella easily ran paces around even the most elite Knights of Seiros during my class's daily training from hell- er, physical conditioning.

And then there was the time when she blew a crater in the ground with a fire spell during combat training…

I shook my head. "Don't worry. Stella's not taking part in the mock battle."

Mostly because I was afraid she might accidentally kill someone…

That was one time!

One time too many. And aren't you supposed to be having tea with Flayn?

…Hmph.

Claude let out a sigh of relief. "Thank the gods."

Dimitri nodded. "A wise decision, Byleth."

"…Yes," Edelgard said. "That was for the best, my teacher."

See?

Oh, shut it.

"In any case." Edelgard turned towards the other lords and said, "We will spare no effort pursuing victory today, Claude. And do not think I will hold back against you either, Dima."

Dimitri smiled. "I would have it no other way, El."

I glanced at Edelgard and said, "…Are you sure you still want to-"

Edelgard frowned. "Do not dare think of withdrawing me from the mock battle this late, my teacher."

Claude raised an eyebrow. "A bit of conflict between the lovebirds?"

I shook my head and said, "I'm just-"

"Concerned." Edelgard nodded. "I understand. But it will be fine, my teacher. I know my limits… and you do as well. If it becomes difficult, I will withdraw."

Dimitri frowned. "Is your body still not fully recovered?"

Claude frowned as well. "That's right… You got injured. It's no fun fighting a weakened opponent. Not that I mind the tactical advantage, but…"

Edelgard smiled, though it was a cold expression. "As I said before, I may be weakened, but I have plenty of strength to deal with you both. You will find yourselves in a grave situation if you underestimate me… let alone my peers." Her eyes became a bit distant and said, "The hell they have gone through in these past few days…"

Dimitri blinked. "Hell?"

I coughed.

Thankfully, before I had to explain what Edelgard meant, more footsteps echoed.

Manuela and Hanneman walked into the training ground.

"My," Manuela said. "You've already charmed dear Lysithea away from me, Professor. Don't tell me you're planning to take my House Leader as well?"

Claude laughed. "Don't worry, Professor. I'm not so heartless as to leave you behind to deal with everyone else."

Manuela raised an eyebrow and said, "But you were heartless enough to leave me lying on the floor bleeding out, weren't you?"

Claude shrugged. "Hey, it all worked out, right?"

Manuela sighed.

Hanneman shook his head and said, "While I am glad to see such a display of interhouse cordiality, it is time for the faculty strategy meeting."

"Ah. Right. That was a thing…"

I glanced at Edelgard.

She sighed and shooed me away. "I'll get everyone ready, my teacher. You go on ahead."

I nodded and then left with Hanneman and Manuela.

As always, the faculty meeting was held in the war council room. It hadn't changed from the last time I saw it, walls still lined with tactical formations and arrows along with a hanging map completely marked up in red.

The four long tables arranged in a rectangle were still there as well, though a familiar pile of paperwork was laid in the corner of it. Seteth's, from the look of it.

The advisor and acting Archbishop himself was seated at the table closest to the entrance. Beside him was my dad.

I walked in behind Hanneman and Manuela.

"Ah." Seteth noticed us enter and stood up. "That is everyone then."

I looked around and frowned. "Everyone? Just us?"

"This will be a short meeting," Seteth said. "I simply wished to provide a short overview of the security and safety measures for you three who will be out on the field with the students."

My dad stood up as well and said, "What he said. After hearing what happened to my kid and his students out there, we wanted to make sure that nothing else went wrong. Wouldn't do to have any noble brats dying on our watch now, would it?"

Hanneman nodded. "While that is a bit of a crass way to put it, Jeralt…"

My dad shrugged. "Just saying."

"…It is understandable," Hanneman continued. "With everything that has been occurring recently, it would be prudent to confirm such details before the battle begins."

Manuela laced her fingers together and stretched her arms… or more likely, her back, and then said, "Come on, Seteth. Spill it already. Don't leave us waiting in suspense."

Seteth sighed. "While I approve of levity, Manuela, you… No. I suppose it matters not." He shook his head and said, "To ensure the safety of any wounded students, Jeralt and I will be standing on a hill overlooking the battlefield. Bishops and priests capable of casting Rescue will be standing beside us while Dark Fliers capable of Physic will fly overhead."

Manuela nodded. "Physic, huh? I'm not sure it'll be enough for serious wounds… but it should be fine for this mock battle. It's not like the kids will be out for blood, right?"

I was quiet, suddenly remembering Hilda and Leonie's disdain towards me.

Manuela noticed and glanced over. "You're awfully quiet there, Professor." She frowned. "Should I be worried?"

"Probably not?"

Her frown deepened. "Like last time, that isn't a no…"

I shook my head. "It should be fine. We're only using training weapons… and everyone was told to hold back with their magic, right?" I glanced at Hanneman to confirm.

He nodded. "That is correct. I made sure to be quite thorough in relaying that information to both my students and Manuela's."

The songstress frowned and looked at Hanneman. "Hold on. What do you mean 'and Manuela's'?"

Hanneman adjusted his monocle. "Let us say that you have a tendency of being forgetful when it comes to things of this nature, Manuela."

Manuela crossed her arms and said, "Oh, and you don't, Mister Crest Scholar? From what I hear, your class is basically teaching itself! Meanwhile, I'm here with all of these brats that can't even tell a lovely rose from a ratty weed on the side and-"

"Ahem." Seteth cleared his throat and said, "If you two are done, might we continue with the meeting?"

Manuela sighed and lowered her arms. "Fine. Go on, Seteth."

The advisor nodded and then turned towards me. "While your concerns are noted, Professor, rest assured that I have activated certain countermeasures to ensure student safety should magic spells go out of control."

My dad chimed in and said, "You don't need to worry, Kid. We made the place Stella-proof, so everything should work out."

Seteth nodded. "As Sir Jeralt said. I will not go into the details, but trust me when I say that you need not concern yourself with any mishaps that may result from magic spells."

I nodded. "That's good… Wouldn't want any unexpected surprises."

My dad spoke up and said, "Don't worry about it, kid. I'll have Clark and Diane keeping an eye on things too. All you need to do is have it out with your students."

Seteth nodded. "While I would not put it so bluntly… Your father is correct, Byleth. This is an opportunity to showcase your ability as an instructor to all in Garreg Mach, as well as increase the prestige of your house." He smiled. "Simply do your best. Leave the security concerns to us."

Hanneman nodded. "This will be quite thrilling." He looked towards me and said, "I will have you know that, as much as I respect you, Byleth, the Blue Lions have no intention of losing."

Manuela smiled. "That's right. As cute a face you might have, I'm not afraid of scratching it up a bit."

I smiled. "We'll see."

"Well." Seteth smiled. "Since it seems like you are all fired up, shall we set out?"

About fifteen minutes before the start of the mock battle. Everyone had gone to their positions and were doing last minute preparations.

Like in that disastrous encounter a few days ago, we were starting on the southwest open plains, with the Golden Deer starting at the tower in the forested area to the northwest and the Blue Lions in the plains to northeast.

Unlike that time though, we wouldn't need to worry about being attacked, at least not by any uninvited guests.

Seteth's wyvern platoon were patrolling the air far above, keeping an eye out for any suspicious movements. In the distance, Clark and Diane were on the ground, securing the perimeter along with the Knights of Seiros that could be spared from guarding the monastery.

I shook my head and then checked up on my students… no, the ones I would be relying on in this battle: Edelgard, Caspar, Hubert, Ferdinand, and Petra.

Edelgard wore a form-fitting crimson armor with golden highlights and the symbol of the Adrestrian Empire etched across her chest. After fastening a wooden training sword to her side, she looked up at me and smiled. "The mock battle is finally here, my teacher. Are you ready?"

Seeing her equipment, I glanced at my own armor… or rather, at my lack of armor and frowned.

Unlike her, I was simply wearing my long coat and a dark gambeson. "…When I see you wearing that, I kind of think I'm not. Also, isn't that a bit unfair? We're just using wooden training weapons after all."

Hubert put on a fresh pair of white gloves and scoffed. "Would you rather Lady Edelgard risk being injured?"

"…True."

"Furthermore," Hubert said. "Though a mock battle, it is one expected to simulate true battle conditions. Wearing such equipment is natural."

I stared at him, particularly at his very distinct lack of any protective equipment save for his usual school uniform. "Any reason why you're not wearing any armor then, Bert?"

He scoffed. "I have no need of such things."

Ferdinand fastened a clasp on his chest plate and said, "And you speak of me being overconfident, Hubert. Even one as skilled as I dare not face the blades of my foes without the proper protection."

Petra finished adjusting a belt around her padded long coat and then tied her training sword to her left side. After that, she nodded and said, "Ferdinand is speaking the truth." She frowned. "I am thinking it to be most unwise to underestimate our peers."

Caspar threw out a few jabs, testing out his padded training gauntlets.

Since he had gone all in on evasion after the training outline I gave him, the only armor he had were on his arms and legs, steel vambraces and greaves. Other than that, he was just wearing his usual school uniform.

After he was satisfied testing out his gauntlets, Caspar turned towards Petra and said, "I dunno. Hubert kind of has a point. I mean, who needs armor when you don't get hit." He turned towards me and said, "Right, Prof?"

"…I mean, you're not wrong, but-"

I frowned, finding it hard to refute him, but also wanting to.

Ferdinand shook his head. "Whatever the case, it will not do to take our opponents lightly. Confidence is one thing, but preparation will be key to success."

Hubert raised an eyebrow and stared at Ferdinand. Specifically, he stared at all the weapons Ferdinand had on him. "Is that why you deigned it necessary to become a walking armory? One would be fine with but a single weapon, yet you carry not only a sword, but an axe, spear, as well as a bow and quiver."

Ferdinand slung his bow over his back and smiled. "You may think it silly, Hubert, but you will soon come to understand the strength of Ferdinand von Aegir in the coming battle. I have not been taking my training lightly… nor have I neglected the pointers that the Professor has given me."

Hubert looked like he wanted to say something, but paused and shook his head. "You are fortunate that it is your day of birth. Out of respect, Ferdinand, I will hold back the response that arrogance so deserves."

Ferdinand swung his sword around to test the weight and then placed it back at his side. Afterwards, he looked at Hubert and said, "It is not arrogance if it is well-founded. But I thank you for the sentiment, Hubert."

"Hmph."

I shook my head and then turned towards Edelgard. "Once again, are you sure that you'll be fine?"

Edelgard rolled her eyes. "And once again, I know my limits, my teacher. Worry not. I will withdraw well before it becomes an issue."

"Just wanted to make sure."

Caspar hopped in place and said, "Come on already, when is it going to start?!"

Petra stared at him and said, "You seem quite eager, Caspar. Are you being that excited to fight?"

He threw out some jabs and did some weaves. "I just can't wait to try this out for real! Linhardt sparred with me a bit, but I want to see if it works on other people, you know?"

"Don't get ahead of yourself," I said. "We won't be just charging in."

Hubert glanced over and said, "Oh? Have a plan, do we Professor?"

"Only a vague idea."

I stared at where the Golden Deer should be getting ready. Despite the distance, I should have been able to see them with my eyes. Yet, I couldn't, which meant they were probably holed up in the tower and devising some last minute tactics.

In contrast, off to the right, I saw Dimitri and the four he chose to fight with him practicing formations. Sylvain and Ingrid were armored and on horseback, taking the vanguard. Dedue was decked in full armor, similar to Dimitri. Those two were taking the flanks. Felix covered the rear, with Hanneman in the middle of the formation.

It looked formidable and coordinated, completely unlike our ragtag group. Despite that, it was the lesser of the two dangers.

I shifted my gaze back to Hubert and said, "Care to match wits against Claude, Bert?"

The dark magic user's eyes widened for a bit and then a sinister smile settled on his face. "You intend to attack both houses at once."

Petra frowned. "Is that being a good idea, Professor? I am understanding your confidence and trust, but…"

I stared at Dimitri.

Was it coincidence? For a brief moment, the prince stared back and smiled, an eager glint in his eyes. Anticipation and curiosity.

I shook my head and said, "It's probably not a good idea… but I have a hunch it's the best we've got if we want to win."

The Blue Lions had a Dimitri who had gone through Azure Moon, including all the combat that entailed. In contrast, the Golden Deer had a Claude post Verdant Wind with another few decades of experience around his belt.

One was skilled in close and desperate skirmishes while the other was experienced in a long game and strategy.

Either was already a tough opponent, but we'd immediately be facing the other the moment we were finished with one.

Not to mention both Dimitri and Claude seemed eager to test me out… Our key advantage lay in the element of surprise, one we'd lose if we doubled down on trying to get rid of a single house.

Edelgard frowned. "I do not disagree with your assessment, my teacher… but how will we divide our forces?"

I stared at Hubert. "Who do you need?"

"Hm…" The gloomy young man stared at all of us and said, "While I would ideally bring you and Lady Edelgard to finish this quickly, I believe the Blue Lions will be the fiercest fight among the two." He looked towards Dimitri and said, "That formation is not one formed haphazardly."

"Formation, smormation!" Caspar grinned and said, "All we gotta do is break it, right?"

Petra nodded. "I am agreeing with Caspar. If we are attacking quickly, we will take the victory."

Edelgard shook her head. "I don't think it will be that simple… Claude and Dimitri are no ordinary opponents."

Hubert nodded. "I agree, Lady Edelgard. Thus… Hm. Caspar and Petra. You two will come with me."

Caspar froze. "Huh? But I want to fight the Blue Lions!"

Petra frowned. "Yes. I am hoping to test my sword against the Blue Lions as well."

I ignored the two's protests for a bit and considered it. "Hm… that leaves me with Edelgard and Ferd. I'm guessing you're trying for a blitzkrieg… ah, a quick and decisive blow then?"

"Indeed. Moreover…" He stared at the tower and said, "I have a feeling that Claude will not play so nicely. And quite frankly, of us six, Caspar, Petra, and I are the most adept at dodging surprise blows."

I nodded. "Sounds like a plan to me."

Caspar sighed. "Well… If Prof says so, I guess I won't complain. But the best at dodging, huh? If Hubert said it, then it looks like my training paid off."

Petra nodded. "We will go quickly and fell the deer! Then we shall defang the lions and take the victory!"

Edelgard looked at Petra, amusement clear in her eyes. "Well, I suppose there is no question of morale."

We rearranged our formation to suit our plan, Hubert with Caspar and Petra to the west, while Edelgard, Ferdinand, and I moved to the east.

Ferdinand looked at Hubert and grinned. "I hope you do not disappoint Lady Edelgard and the Professor, Hubert. It would be quite embarrassing to lose out to Claude of all people."

"Hmph. Speak for yourself, Ferdinand. Though it may be your day of birth, do your best to not be the third wheel between Lady Edelgard and Lord Byleth."

I blinked. "Wait, Lord Byleth?"

Before I could question him, a gruff voice echoed across the battlefield. My dad's.

"Alright, you brats! Listen up!" He looked out over the battlefield from a hill off to the east by the Blue Lions and said, "I'm sure you all already understand, but the house that defeats the other two is declared the winner. I won't say to have a fair fight since you won't get that in a real battle, but remember to hold back on fatal blows and remember your limits! Withdraw if you think you can't continue!"

An unspoken signal. With those words, the houses began to move, getting into position.

The Blue Lions rearranged themselves in a U, clearly pointed towards us.

To the west, I could see Manuela, Hilda, Leonie, and Marianne emerge at the top of the tower, all of them armed with bows. It seemed like Claude definitely was putting the terrain advantage to use… though it worried me that I couldn't see Claude or whoever their last person was.

"Everyone ready?" My dad called out.

I took a deep breath and steadied my mind, throwing away the extraneous thoughts.

Edelgard stared at me and gave me a reassuring smile.

Ferdinand gave me a thumbs up.

Hubert smirked and then focused on the tower.

Petra and Caspar focused as well, ready to follow Hubert's lead.

On top of the hill, I saw my dad look out at everyone and then nod. "Begin!"

We moved, our two parties breaking off towards our chosen opponents.

And then I felt a giant build-up of mana off to the northwest.

I reflexively glanced towards the source of it to see a certain white haired young girl standing at the entrance of the Golden Deer's tower. Holding a glowing bone staff.

…And crackling with dark magic.

My eyes widened and I said, "That cheating son of a-"

Before I could say anything else, the ground erupted with dark miasma and the terrain changed.

Author's Notes:

Feeling a bit better today. Still a bit congested, but looks like I've got through the worst of whatever I caught. I'll tentatively say that the next chapter will be out Sunday though in case this is just a brief reprise.

Mostly battle prep and setup this chapter. We get to see a bit of banter this chapter before the fun starts.

Claude's a cheating dastard, Dimitri has charisma hax, and seige spells will be flying left and right.

Whoo boy.

Preview for next time:

"Give up, Ferdinand! You're outnumbered three to one!"

"I will never surrender. For I! Am! Ferdinand von Aegir!"

Thanks for reading and all your well wishes. It helped out a lot when I was lying around in bed.

Hope it was enjoyable, and I'll see you soon!

Stay healthy!