Summary: Timeline- rewind- day before leaving for Derdriu *Warning 18+ content included in this chapter* Twitter Lunafox90 will have updates for the fic- I post on archive of our own first
Notes: enjoy! sorry this chapter took so long 3
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text 30Dimitri woke up first, relishing having her in the bed with him in his arms. He had had nightmares again while she was gone. Guren had silently offered his comfort by laying at his back as he did for her. It wasn't the same, but it had been comfortable none the less. He was grateful to the wolf, but there was nothing that could replace the feeling of her in his arms.
Guren shifted to look up at him as Dimitri sighed. "Yes, it's good to have her back. I'd prefer that we don't let her do that again."
Dimitri nodded. "I agree, but if she does take up the mantle of Archbishop, there will be times that I will need to stay here and she will have to stay at Garrag Mach. It's not that far and she shouldn't need to use the pulse there, but that doesn't mean that it won't be rough on both of us."
"Is there any way to make a mutal den for the both of you? Does she really need to take that position?" Guren asked.
"She'll have to in the beginning at least until she can name a successor. As far as the mutual place to stay, there might be something I can do by giving her an office here, but that in itself presents complications with not being where the work is." Dimitri said.
"But it does have possibility." Byleth murmured, her eyes fluttering open as she moved to wrap him in a hug as she held him to her. He breathed a contented sigh.
He grinned as another thought struck him. "By the way Mercedes did tell me to let you know that she had extra herbs with her if you'd like to join her for tea."
"Oh really? Guren are you able to let yourself out?" Byleth asked.
The wolf stretched and nodded. "Yes, it's the round handles I can't get myself, but these are easy. I'll be outside the door."
Guren hopped off the bed and put his paws on the handle for the lever to go down and let himself out. He hesitated and Dimitri found his patience wearing thin. Guren nosed a small basket of clothes inside before he took the handle in his teeth and shut the door behind him. Byleth smiled before she turned her attention to him.
She curled her hand into his hair and gripped it to move his head back. "Don't think I didn't notice your reaction when I did this earlier." She purred as she ran her tongue along his neck before nipping him on the shoulder.
He closed his eyes at the pleasure that coursed through him. "I missed you Byleth, and I intend to make it up to you for sending you out to deal with what I should have been with to help. More than that, I had wanted to take you that night, damn the consequences. I knew that would have been selfish, so I was content just to hold you then. You are not escaping me today."
"Don't you have a pile of work to get to?" she teased, licking her bite.
He growled as he put her underneath him. "It can wait. I have more important matters to attend to."
"More important hmm?" she said, biting her bottom lip. His gaze was hungry and his weight on her felt good. She had missed him too.
He twined his ringed hand with hers. "Yes my beloved, you are mine now and I will take care of what belongs to me."
His words sent a delicious shiver down her spine as he took her lips in a demanding kiss, his tongue delving into her mouth as their tounges dances until she melted underneath him with soft moans. He could feel her hands pulling up his shirt and he broke the kiss to pull it off for her. Her kisses trailed from his neck down his chest, her nails running down his arm. He grinded his erection against her leg and had to calm down. He didn't want this to end so quickly. The last time he had her was the morning they had left for Fhirdiad. That was before she accepted his proposal. He wanted to savor her, savor this.
He pulled back and reached down to pull up her nightgown to bare herself to him, making sure to run his hands against her as he went. When he got it to her waist he leaned down to start kissing inside her thigh and took his hand to rub her already wet folds. She arched under his hands as her breathing quickened. He pulled himself up to her side as he pulled the nightgown further until her breasts were revealed to him and took the taunt nipple in his mouth. He held her in his embrace, the one hand reached over her, continuing to rub at her. The other arm curled underneath her so he could play with her breast on the other side.
She writhed as he curled his fingers inside of her, this thumb stroking in circles around her clit. Her moans fueled his own as he went faster, enjoying her body against him. She released him from his pants and was attempting to stroke and hold him. Her breathing was starting to come in pants and he could tell by how her body was tensing that she was getting close. He unlatched himself from her breast to kiss her. She moaned and he pulled back, licking his lips.
He added another finger and continued his pace. "Cum for me Byleth."
Her back arched and he watched her with a grin. He was enjoying that he could do this to her, to make her breathless and desperate for release. She had started to grind against his hand, small whimpers as her body continued to coil. She cried out his name as her body shattered and she fell limp against him. He could feel her pulse around his fingers. He gave one last push before he pulled them out. She clutched him then, finding his lips with hers as she gave him short kisses. Her breathing was already coming in pants and it took her a few moments before she calmed again.
He rolled her over then, kicking off the loose pants as he lavished kisses on her neck and chest. Grabbing her ass in his hands he buried himself inside her in one quick motion. He laid himself against her, no space between them as her breasts rubbed against him. His hands squeezed her ass before he trailed them along her sides before holding her against him. He started his thrusts slow. She was tight and he wanted to enjoy her, but his own desperation to have her took over as he quickened his thrusts, burying himself to the hilt repeatedly as her nails dug into his back. Her moans driving him on.
He pulled at her hair as he brought her lips to his in a crushing kiss. "Claim me love, I'm almost there too." She said huskily into his neck as she wrapped her arms around him, one coiling in his hair.
He could feel her getting tighter around him and it almost broke him there but her grit his teeth and tried to hold himself back until he felt her body shiver then he thrust himself deep as she coiled around him as he released himself in her. He burrowed his head into the crook of her neck as he bit into her. Her moaning cry as she came was wonderful in his ears, her body pulsing around him sent shivers through him.
She fell back against the bed, panting. His breathing was coming hard too as he watched her, pleased with himself. He took her ringed hand in his again and gave her a soft kiss as he rocked himself inside her before he pulled out of her. He gathered her in his arms and she put her head against his chest. "Your heatbeat is rapid." She muttered as she tapped a finger to the pulse, still in a daze from such a strong release.
"It beats for both of us. I love you Byleth." He said, kissing the top of her head.
"Love you too." She stretched with a contented smile on her face. "You are not allowed to leave this bed until I feel I can stand again."
He chuckled softly as he swept some of her hair out of her face. The afterglow suited her, and he could still feel her shaking as her body came down from the high. He snuggled into her and breathed a contented sigh. "I can manage that."
She had fallen asleep against his chest and had to smile at how adorable she was. He kissed her forehead before slipping away from her. He did a quick rinse for himself and went through the clothes in the basket. There was a set for him and one for Byleth. He put on what was left out for him before going over to Byleth and trailing kisses along her jaw, cheek, and lips before her eyes opened.
"I thought I said you couldn't leave the bed." She grumbled.
He smiled at her. "I have a bath waiting for you and clothes for you on the bed. Be sure to go see Mercedes. I need to do a few more things before we head out for Derdriu tomorrow."
He kissed her and she glared at him. "But I'm comfy."
He gave her a small spank and waited, wondering if that had been the wrong move. He was feeling playful, but he probably shouldn't….. she had bit her lip and smiled up at him. "If you keep that up I might be keeping you captive today." She said.
He backed away, knowing that if anything more continued, he would be tempted to let her. "Bath, Mercedes, and then you have your own tasks to attend to." He was trying to keep his tone commanding.
"As you wish my lion." She said. Her gaze swept up and down on him. He had put on a blue long sleeved shirt with silver accents and black pants, and based on her hungry stare she approved of it on him. He had to get out now. He could hear her chuckling as he retreated. He took a deep breath as soon as he was on the other side. Guren gave him a knowing glance.
Dimitri turned away from him. "I'll more likely be in my office or the council room if she needs me."
Guren nodded. Huffing in laughter and shaking his head as Dimitri left.
Byleth was happy to smell the scent of lavender as she went into the bath. She stretched one more time as the warm water felt excellent. She was still feeling pleasant from their activities earlier. The outfit that was left was almost a mirror to the one he had worn. It had a high collar that would hide the bitemarks at her neck. She would have to find out who was responsible for all this because the fit was perfect for her. She gathered all of the dirty clothes into the basket and left it next to the door.
"Had fun?" Guren asked with a sly grin.
"Yes." Byleth replied. A smile curled her lips as the memory came back.
Guren stood and brushed against her leg. "I'm glad you're happy Ashen."
Byleth brushed her fingers through his fur. "We might need to find a lady wolf for you." She teased.
Guren shook his head. "Not needed, but thank you for the thought. Now do you need me to lead you to Mercedes's room or do you know where it is?"
"Go ahead and lead. I know the direction, but not which room." Byleth said.
When she got there Dudue was at her door bowing to her. "Thank you as always Mercedes."
Byleth raised an eyebrow, but stopped, not wanting to interrupt whatever this was.
Mercedes smiled from the doorway. "Anytime you want to talk, you know I'm always happy to listen. And the alterations are fun to do. If you find anything more that you think they'll like I'll be happy to take a look at it."
Dudue has a slight curve to his lips, but it went back to the thin line he normally wore when he saw Byleth there. "Oh professor, do you need anything?"
Byleth shook her head. "No I was coming to see Mercedes. I assume it's you two behind the clothing that is appearing outside our room then?"
Dedue nodded. "We took the liberty, yes. I hope we did not act out of bounds."
Byleth smile and looked down at what she was wearing. "It's much appreciated, actually. I left all of the dirty clothing in the basket you left us near the door."
"Understood, I'll make sure it's taken care of." Dedue said.
"I didn't mean it as an order Dedue." Byleth said.
"I am his Highness' vassel. There are not many that he wants near his things. I don't mind. There are many things I owe him, and you as well." Dedue said simply.
Byleth nodded. "Then at least let me to thank you for your excellent care."
A blush crept over his face before he coughed into his hand and composure returned. "That means a lot. Thank you, professor."
Mercedes giggled. "Did you come for tea, perhaps professor?"
Byleth nodded. "Yeah I forgot mine at the monastery so it is much appreciated Merci."
"That explains a bit. Come on in. It's lavender tea you like right?" Mercedes asked.
He found her later that day in the war room, she had some diagrams and lists and was probably delegating which troops should stay where based on the fact she also had a map next to her with those round stones again. She would shift a few, take notes, and then look at the map again.
"Byleth, there is something I'd like you to do with me." Dimitri said.
Byleth turned to him, that tone he used, something was wrong. "What is it?."
"I want to question Viscount Klieman's man, and Darren has brought one of Cornelia's men forward that has information about Cornelia and his sister. I'm afraid of losing my temper for one. The second, it's all still… I know what you showed me is the truth, but to think my stepmother was behind it." He swallowed and looked away from her. "It's still a truth I have difficulty facing."
Byleth wrapped her arms around him in a hug. "I'm here for you. You don't have to face it alone."
He held her tightly before he could get his composure under control again. Why was he shaking? Would this accursed feeling truly never leave him?
"I'll go grab Gilbert and be right back." She said before she kissed him.
She found Gilbert easily enough. Rodrigue had been with him and asked to be included with the interrogation. She had thought perhaps he'd wait outside the door but when she opened it he was glaring at the man who had been at Viscount Klieman's side during the council.
"I cannot overlook your reckless remarks. Are you really so keen to lose your head?" Dimitri's voice was cold.
"I only did what I believed was right. I swear to the goddess that I'm not lying. Amidst the turmoil of the tragedy, Lady Patricia was supposed to be the only one who was unharmed. We had been given orders ahead of time to not approach her carriage..." The prisoner said.
"Was Patricia an accomplice?" Byleth asked. They knew that truth already, but it's not like they could say, oh we went back to that moment in time to watch it ourselves, they needed concrete evidence and strings to follow.
Rodrigue nodded. "I've suspected as much ever since I investigated where the caravan was attacked."
Gilbert sighed. "For the past few months, I've been spying on lords who defected to the Empire in order to investigate rumors about Lady Patricia. Cornelia's words were true. The two of them... I am afraid they conspired together, after all.
Dimitri's fists were clenched, but he was mainting a semblance of calm. "You say she wished to return home? That isn't nearly enough reason to cause such a tragedy."
Hapi knocked on the open door. "I think I can answer that one Didi. Darren came and told me what was going on since the man he has hurt me too. Cornelia told Anselma that her daughter was in Fhirdiad but she couldn't see her at the time."
"Neither my father nor I knew that the Imperial Princess was in Fhirdiad at the time." Dimitri said.
Hapi shook her head. "That's not what I heard. I heard that the king had wanted to keep the child away from Anselma. So he hid the fact that her daughter was nearby."
Dimitri was confused at that. "She thought father hid it from her? What could he have gained from such a thing? She was seeking asylum from the from the Empire in the kingdom. Lord Aurendel was obligated to hide the Imperial Princess' whereabouts. If her location had gone public, the Empire would have demanded her return. She would have undoubtly become a political pawn in the kingdom as well. The decision to hide her was not my fathers…."
"And there lies your answer." Byleth said.
Dimitri's eyes widened. "It was lord Arundel's responsibility. My father and stepmother weren't even allowed to dignity of being alone together. Cornelia would constantly insert herself in between them. If she had hid it from her, caused them to miss out on seeing them, extorted her, used her, told her those lies…"
Byleth nodded. "Aurendel and Cornelia are both slither. We don't know if he truly is lord Aurendel or like Solen is just stealing his form, but that matters not, what does matter is they used Patricia's love for her family against her. If she wasn't able to even be with Lambert because they tampered, she probably just felt like a prisoner within the castle with a liar who relished in taking away everything she cared about."
Gilbert pondered on that "That theory does ring with many truths. I do not intend to imply that the two of them were solely responsible for the whole affair. There were likely nobles who opposed the king, or potentially someone who wanted to throw the Kingdom into chaos, but they had a better chance with her.
Dimitri nodded. "I see. We will hear what this man has left to say."
The prisoner looked around at those gathered in the room. "I've never heard of anyone named Aselma. My lord had long felt that King Lambert's radical ways were dangerous. At the time, he was approached with an offer to take part in the incident at Duscur... My lord loves his homeland. To me, he embodied justice. We were only doing what we thought was right."
Dimitri's frosty glare met him then. "And so, in the name of justice, he caused massacre upon massacre out of love for his homeland. You murdered your own king, killed our soldiers, and involved innocent citizens. And yet you have the gall to speak of justice?"
Kleiman's vassel bowed his head. "I am only standing before you now because I could no longer bear the weight of my sins. When she brought forth that evidence against him…. I knew the truth could be hidden no longer."
Byleth stood stonefaced infront of him. "So you are naming Viscount Kleiman as one of the co-conspirators of the incident of duscar? Did you share those feelings about your homeland? Do you regret your actions?"
He had to look away from her unflinching stare. "Yes... I believe I do hold those same beliefs. It is why I cannot regret my actions. I accept your hatred, and even the punishment of death, but I still believe it was a massacre in the name of justice."
"Where there ever mages wearing bird-like masks within Kleiman's home?" Byleth pressed.
He looked at her then, confused. "Yes, but what does that have to do with….. they were the ones that brough Klieman the information about Lambert's plans and offered to include us."
Dimitri nodded, they had all the answers they needed. "Gilbert. Lock this man in his cell. Tell Darren he can bring his man forward."
Gilbert bowed. "Yes, Your Highness."
Gilbert and Darren brought in a man who was struggling, but he stopped the moment that he saw Byleth. "Fell star." He hissed.
Byleth closed her eyes and let the Sothis Regelia form. "And what of it Argathan?"
The man's eyes went wide before he glared at Byleth with pure hate.
Dimitri didn't like this. "We have brought you forward because you have information of Cornelia's experients and a murder of a young apprentice that was under her care."
Darren wretched his hair when he didn't answer, his eyes were still on Byleth. "Tell them what I heard you scum. She was Cornelia's apprentice and you killed her when she refused to join your little group! You helped him rape her and you're the one that locked me in that cell for her to conduct her experiments on me." Darren growled.
The cloaked man started to laugh. "All of you are pathetic fools. What is the consequence of the death of one stupid girl? We strive to destroy every beast that fell star created. The crests are our making and we will determine who is worthy of them, not that false goddess. Rhea sends her regards Fell Star. Her blood will serve us well in eradicating your kind. The empire has been very accommodating to us."
Byleth stepped forward, taking his chin in her hands. "All I asked for was peace. I gave you magics beyond your comprehension, and yet even still you only wish me gone."
"Thales will carve our your wretched heart!" he growled.
"Don't you mean Arundel?" Byleth purred. The man only glared at her. "We've killed Odessee and Cornelia. We will take out Arundel and Myson. Tell me how many more of you snakes lie in the dark?"
The man's eyes went wide as he made a spell in his hands faster than Darren could stop him and flung it at Byleth. She caught it in her hand and it fizzled out as her eyes began to glow. "Compared to Solen and Thales' spells yours is barely a whisper of wind. I never asked for war, I never betrayed you, and I did not ask for your hatred. And yet you twisted every gift I gave you and killed my family. It was your ancestor's burden and yet you carried on their wish, so you will burn with the rest." She let him go. "Do want you want with him, but I do not wish to see his face again."
"What would you prefer Sothis?" Dimitri asked. Rodrigue and Gilbert's surprised gazes went to Byleth.
Those glowing green eyes met Dimitri's. "It's only a snake that will poison you the moment it gets a chance. While I'm out I'm going to see her little ones if you wish to speak to me."
Dimitri turned to Darren. "You said this man was guilty in helping kill your sister?"
Darren nodded. "Yes, your highness. I killed the one that raped her, but he's the one that held her down and drove the blade into her heart when they were done based on the information I gathered.
"Then I will let you be the one to carry out his execution." He said before he turned to the door to leave.
He heard Darren's sword get pulled out of the sheath and then the sound of metal through flesh. Rodrigue and Gilbert followed him out as the body fell to the floor with a thud.
"Rest in peace Lilyana. Not even their thoughts can touch you anymore." Darren said.
Dimitri found it hard to have any sympathy for the fallen. He was worried about the goddess who now roamed the castle. She had said her little ones. Who was that supposed to be?
It was almost lunchtime and everyone had gathered for the food and a break from their tasks. When Byleth stepped into the room in the Sothis Regelia a few of them had to do a double take.
"Professor, isn't that what you wore when you were wielding the goddess power earlier at the bridge?" Linhardt asked, catching sight of her.
"Ah the sleepy one. You and I had a lot in common." Sothis answered.
Felix glared at her. "What's wrong you?"
Sothis huffed and put her hands on her hips. "There is nothing wrong with me!"
Felix knew something was off now. "Your voice."
Sothis crossed her arms instead. "I happen to think mine is prettier than hers, so hmph."
"So this is where you went Sothis. I wasn't sure who you meant by little ones." Dimitri's voice came from behind her.
She pondered over that. "Hmm, well I guess that wouldn't be accurate anymore. None of you are little anymore. Especially you, you tower over us now."
"How long do you plan on staying?" Dimitri asked.
The irritated glare she gave him really didn't suit Byleth's face. "What, am I not good company?"
"That is not what I meant. I'm only curious. I wasn't expecting you to be able to do it when she wasn't sleeping." Dimitri answered.
The others had gathered closer, wondering what was going on.
Sothis tilted her head. "I'm sorry. The man Darren held looks too much like someone I knew long ago, and she let me when I asked. He is disposed of, I hope."
"Yes, Darren took care of it." Dimitri said.
Guren padded in and bumped his head against Sothis' leg. She let out an uncharacteristic squeal before coming down to pet and hug him. That had gotten everyone's stare.
"Dimitri, what is going on with Byleth?" Sylvain asked.
"Everyone meet Sothis." Dimitri said.
Petra came forward. "Like a spirit within her?"
Dimitri nodded. "That's a good way to put it, actually."
Linhardt came forward. "So it's like the professor is asleep, and the goddess is awake?"
Sothis nodded. "In a way. She can still hear and see as I do, but I am the one in control of her actions."
"Fascinating." Linhardt said. "Curiosity, that barrier that you used to block all of those spells. May I see it, please?"
Sothis had a confused look on her face. "Alright." She said slowly before she raised her hand for the magical resistance barrier to form.
Linhardt grabbed his tome from his belt and began drawing it out and taking notes. "Can someone …. Dorthea or Annette…. actually, Sylvain and Felix too, can one of you attack the barrier with a spell? I want to see the effects directly."
Ingrid huffed. "Not inside you're not!"
Linhardt nodded. "Quite right we should go outside for that."
Sothis closed off the shield. "I am not here for you to experiment on. Plus you already saw how many spells it took. Not to mention it does wear her out to use such power. She is my vessel, but her body can only take so much."
Linhardt wasn't listening to that part as he was taking notes.
Sylvain walked up to her. "So the actual goddess huh? Yeah her eyes, it's almost like they're glowing."
She gave him a peeved stare as she tilted away from him. "The tomcat…..Your company is not needed."
Sylvain made a motion like he had an arrow to his heart. "You wound me!"
Annette bounced up to them. "It's really interesting to see so many different expressions on her face. It's odd, but it's nice all at the same time. Tell me, what would you like to do with your time with us?"
Sothis grabbed her hands with a smile. "I've always wanted to try those… you and the nice older one…I want food, the good kind that she would eat and savor… treats I think you called them."
Mercedes chuckled as she walked up. "I was thinking about baking some tea cookies as a treat for everyone today. Would you like to join us and help?"
Sothis's face lit up. "Yes, please! And you, the sweet one with the freckles, she likes your food too. I don't care what it is, I want to try it."
Ashe went red when he realized it was him he was talking about. "Yes, I'll make you something right away."
Sothis giggled. "Don't trouble yourself. The bonds between her and I are growing so I expect she might let me out more often if I wish it."
"I'll be in my office if you need me." Dimitri said.
Sothis grabbed the back of his shirt. "That's no fair. This is your castle. Aren't you going to show it to me?"
Dimitri was glad that pouty face was something Byleth hadn't learned to use on him yet. That would be hard to deny, no matter the request. "We need to head out for battle tomorrow. I promise that I will show you, but since I get to keep you, why don't you spend what time you have with them while they're here?"
Sothis looked away with a deflated look. "Fine, but I'm holding you to that promise."
When Dimitri tried to pull away again, he still felt her hand in his shirt. "Yes?"
She looked like she was about to cry. "You would give her a hug or something before you left, so why don't I get one?"
Dimitri bit back a sigh. Dedue came in with some food in his hands. "Ah your highness. Please grab something to eat before you head back to work."
Sothis seemed to forget about him immediately as she bounced over to Dedue as he placed the food on the table. Dimitri sighed then when she was out of range. He was going to have to have a talk with Byleth about this. It may not be fair to keep the Goddess cooped up, but this encounter with her was mentally draining. He also wasn't sure if it wasn't better to keep Sothis secret, but it was ultimately her decision.
He watched her bouncing from dish to dish while Dedue was being paitent with her, telling her what each dish was and what was in it. He didn't want to offend her so he walked up, intending to grab a quick plate to take with him, give her a kiss atop her head, and leave for his work.
Sothis placed a hand on Dedue's cheek while he was bent down. "I assure you that I had nothing to do with what happened to your people. I have not been around to protect or forsake anyone or anything until I awoke in her. I know you have your own deities to pray to, but know that I help protect you now and I will do what I can to make sure what happened to your people doesn't repeat itself."
The shock in Dedue's eyes was evident. "You are as benevolt as they say." He finally said.
Sothis removed her hand and shrugged. "I just don't like snakes who threaten my home. The others it's their deeds that determine their worth to me."
"Then why forgive me so readily?" Dimitri said quietly behind her.
She turned to him. "Because you reached for the light. What you did while in the darkness…..that is questionable, but you have come back to us and you are making up for it so why should I punish you when you are willing to do better? You punish yourself enough for both of us, which you need to stop that!"
He had a small smile curve his lips. "I'm working on it."
She nodded. "That's all we ask. Now come, choose what I should try first."
"You know that I'm not a good judge for that." He said.
"You were never good with seasoning. Or is it something else?" Sothis asked.
"My sense of taste….. it's gone most days." He replied.
Sothis sighed. "At least it's returning. Honestly how many burdens to you keep to yourself? Come here."
He bent down to her. "You better be glad I like you." She said before she kissed him. His mouth sizzled as his dull world came sparking to life. He clamped his hand over his mouth after she let him go and he stumbled back. He could hear the stifled giggles around him. The only thing saving his dignity right now is that they were all friends.
"Well go on, try something." She snapped.
He was hesitant but Dedue smiled and ladled out a few pieces of stewed meat onto a plate with a fork. He held it out to Dimitri, who took it. He really wished she'd quit staring at him. He took a bite and couldn't help closing his eyes and savoring the flavor with a satisfied smile.
"Good, now is there anything else you need?" She said as she heard the satisfying sound he made.
"No, this hadn't been necessary, but I am grateful for it. Here try it." He said. He stabbed the meat with the fork and held it out for her.
She smiled before she bit it off his fork. "You're right, it's delicious. I do want good things for you, Dimitri. It's as she told you. You've suffered enough, so let me know if there's a burden I can take away."
He kissed her temple. "Thank you Sothis. Enjoy what you can." He turned to Dedue. "I'd like some more of this please, and any food you made I want to try as well."
"Yes… yes right away." Dedue responded. He seemed a little shocked, but happy. He got a plate ready for Dimitri and then went to prepare a second plate. "And for you Sothis. I hope it pleases you." He said, putting that one down in front of Sothis. Dimitri didn't expect the giggle she'd make after trying a bite.
"This is amazing. Thank you." She said and started humming happily.
Dimitri shook his head, but couldn't help but smile. Her demeanor did remind him of a child, but it was cute to see those expressions on her face. Maybe someday Byleth would be able to be just as expressive as she learned through Sothis. There was work to do and he wanted to enjoy his meal in private without so many eyes. His table manners had improved after the five years of bad habits, but he wasn't sure if he could control himself after that decadent taste. He was going to enjoy this, and he was not going to have an audience for it.
There was a lot of pleasant chatter while the rest of them ate. There were a few questions like how long they had been bound and how, trying to get to know her, and just overall chatter amongst themselves. Sothis smiled, knowing that like Byleth, they had welcomed her into their little family without any strings attached, and that made her very happy.
The expressions reminded Sylvain of a child. She was cute like this to say the least. That outfit though on Byleth. Now that was a goddess worth worshiping. Sylvain sat down next to Felix with a smile. "Still jealous?"
"Not at all." Felix responded in a slow tone. This was way to weird and he was happy he wasn't the one that had to deal with it. He did have to admit it was interesting seeing all the different expressions, weird, but interesting.
Once everyone was finished eating Mercedes and Annette took Sothis into the kitchen to help with the baking. Ashe had followed behind them to offer his help too. Dedue also coming in to help clean the dishes from earlier. He had dismissed the servants again because he didn't trust them just yet and seeing how she acted, he was sure that some of these cookies they made would end up on Dimitri's desk. The last thing they needed was Dimitri poisoned.
Watching the four of them together was pleasant to listen to. He had never heard the professor laugh much before. She seemed to be enjoying everything, in awe at how easily the others did their tasks. They were cutting shapes for the cookies, and she had been disappointed in how none of hers looked nice.
Mercedes giggled at her expression. "It'll be alright. It's just the right thickness. I'm sure Dimitri won't care what they look like as long as you are the one who made them."
Sothis looked at her poor attempt of a flower. "But these are my first cookies. I want them to turn out well."
It was Annette's turn to smile. "Well that just means you need to have plenty more practice with us."
"Here watch me. This is an easy way to do it. Twist the blade like this and just make a few circles but don't cut too deep." Ashe said showing her some motions.
Her next cookie looked better. She had to admit she liked this feeling. Even in Zanado her family treated her like a precious object that should be admired, but not touched. Everyone here was nice and she wondered if this was more of what family should feel like.
Mercedes had given her a plate and cloth to be able to bring them along with her. She didn't know what this feeling was that burst from her chest. She was excited for something for the first time in a very long time. She found his office easy enough. She was pleased to see an empty plate near the door. He had eaten all of it. He looked up from the stack of papers.
"Did you have fun?" he asked, putting down his quill.
"Yes very much. I wanted to share these with you." She said, taking off the cloth and trying not to look at the misshapen blobs.
"Would you like tea with it?" he asked.
"Not right now." She said, sitting down on the coushioned windowseat.
He grabbed one off the plate and bit into it. The smile that crossed his face made her very happy in return. She grabbed a cookie and bit into it. It practically melted on her tongue, and the taste was nice. She was not looking forward to going back to her throne.
"Thank you again Sothis. Not only for my sight, but what you did today, I wasn't expecting any of it. I am extremely grateful to you." Dimitri said.
Sothis smiled as she finished her cookie. Then she stretched and yawned. "Unfortunately, I think we're at my limit. I'm sorry if I shocked you and everyone else."
"Rest well Sothis." Dimitri said, kissing her on the forehead. "Thank you for making the sweets as well."
She smiled as the Regelia faded into what Byleth had been wearing before the change. She breathed a heavy sigh. "That was a lot more exhausting than I want to admit. My face feels a little stiff."
Dimitri couldn't help but snicker at her. "Good to have you back." He said before giving her a kiss.
She reached for a cookie and nibbled it down. "I wanted to help you with this, but can you give me a few moments to rest?"
"Take all the time you need." He said.
She curled herself under the large window and she was asleep within a few moments. He shook his head at her before tracing her jaw with his fingers. He started to get back to work and found himself glancing at her between tasks. He would smile and then get back to work. When she woke up some time later he was getting close to halfway done.
She stretched. "How long was I out for?" she asked.
"However long you needed it for." He replied.
"Can I help you with any of it?" she asked.
"Yes, that pile there. I set them aside for you, knowing that you'd handle them better than I could at the moment." He said, pointing to it.
She looked at the empty cookie plate next to him. "Liked them huh?" she teased.
He looked at her sheepishly. "They tasted good."
She smiled at him. "It was nice of her. There might be some instances where it might not be as nice as you hoped. There's going to be some flavors you won't be able to stand."
"It'll be better than everything tasting like ash." He said.
She nodded and took the pile that he suggested, using a tray in her lap as she pulled her back up against the wall so she could work comfortably. Together they got through the piles, talking as they worked about things that needed to be settled and taken care of in the short time they had here. He had actually been able to accomplish a large amount of tasks while she was gone. He had been working hard.
When they got to the last few papers she stretched and yawned. "Let's run while we can, before they come with more work to add to the pile. I think dinner should be about ready."
He scooped her up. "I couldn't agree more."
Dinner was full of chatter, mostly about Sothis, however Rodrigue and Gilbert had turned the conversation to Dimitri and how smoothly everything was going. They would be able to head out to Derdriu tomorrow without many worries. Rodrigue said that he'd rather go with them, but he understood that they needed to keep the momentum so the Kingdom could continue to thrive.
Count Kleiman would face a public execution and the truth of Duscar told to help get that out of the way as the city recovered as well as uncover Cornelia's misdeeds and involvement. It would happen tomorrow morning. They felt for something that important an accusation Dimitri needed to be there for it. They also agreed that announcing making Rodrigue the ruling Regent until Dimitri came back for his coronation would be best done afterward. After that they would set out for Derdriu. Rodrigue still had doubts that he was the right choice but would accept the honor on the promise that Dimitri would indeed make it through the war alive and return to them.
Dimitri had shook his head. "It's you or Gilbert. You both knew what my father had to do when you were working with him. Both of you are capable of the task. One of you will stay here, the other helping us as you have while on the field. I trust the both of you.
Gilbert flushed. "Your Highness. I'm honored."
Rodrigue nodded. "Yes, it is very high praise. I thank you."
Gilbert bowed his head. "Both of us are becoming old men quickly Rodrigue. I think it would be the better choice to take you out on the field, but to take his tasks after my failure, I'm not sure if I am up for the task."
Rodrigue nodded. "I know, it doesn't seem real. There were days when we would help Lambert, there always seemed to be a flow of unending tasks, and I never envied him for having the responsibility."
"May we discuss and give you the answer tomorrow?" Gilbert asked.
Dimitri nodded. "I need you comfortable with the decision. As long as I know I can leave the kingdom in good hands it would take a burden off of my chest. I will end this as quickly as I can."
Dimitri looked over to Dedue. "This will help clear your people. I'm sorry it couldn't be done sooner."
Dudue nodded. "The fact that you found peace for both yourself and my people makes me grateful, Your Highness. I will help you hunt down the rest of those responsible."
He found her in the training room after that doing a few exercises and smiling when he came in. She grabbed a training lance she had beside her and tossed it his way. He caught it and circled her. She followed his movements as her smile faded, but she bit her lip as she gave him a once over.
"I think you have other thoughts on your mind than just a spar beloved." He said.
"What happened this morning was rather breathtaking. Of course, it would be on my mind. Merci gave me some of her stash of herbs when I told her I'd forgotten mine." She teased.
He grinned at that before he took a jab with the lance to one side. She dodged which he expected, twisting it like a staff to smack towards the side she dodged to. She was nimble enough to dodge back before he connected, but it seemed to surprise her.
"Yuri taught me a few new tricks while you were gone." He said as her almost caught her again with another hit.
She smiled. "I thought leaving him here would be a good idea."
Dimitri nodded as they exchanged a few more blows, he knew to use the lance's reach to keep her away. "Yes he and Ferdinand have been insightful and helpful through all of this."
Byleth nodded. "Good. How have you been adjusting to the workload?"
"I doubt I could have done all of it without all the guidance you gave me with Garrag Mach, at least not as efficiently."
The continued in silence after that. She had to keep twirling around his jabs. She had managed to throw his aim to the sides, but with his strength it didn't give her much of an opening. She kept her defenses high, able to deflect his shots or avoid them completely. He saw an opening and the lance smacked her across her ass. She yelped and glared at him.
"We're going to play like that are we?" she growled.
He grinned. "Something wrong?"
She regained her stance and the match began again. She was more offensive this round, but he was still able to push her back and keep his distance. He disarmed her and ignored the clatter of wood as her sword hit the ground. He backed her up against the pillar behind her with his lance, pinning her up against it. Her chest heaved from the exertion as she panted and looked up at him. He pulled away long enough for him to get the lance out from between them before he kissed her. He grabbed her ass as he lifted her up as he pressed himself against her and the pillar. She wrapped her legs around his hips and her arms around his neck as their tounges danced.
He heard Guren's growl a moment before a woman's squeal of surprise caught his attention and he pulled away from her.
"What's the matter Ingrid?" Sylvain asked, coming behind her. He caught sight of the two of them. "Oh… Well….that looks like fun."
"It's called a bedroom you animals. If you're not going to continue training, then get out." Felix growled.
Byleth buried her head into his neck. "Do you want me to pulse?" she whispered, unlatching her legs from him.
"No, let them talk, but you are coming back with me." He growled before he pulled her against him to carry her back to his room.
"Don't tucker yourselves too bad. We need to leave tomorrow." Sylvain teased.
Felix made a sound of agitation.
Ingrid still hadn't said a word, her face flushed red. Not until Sylvain whispered in her ear. "No I am not jealous!" she clamped her hands over her mouth as she realized she said it too loud.
Byleth chuckled. "He is mine, but I'm sure you can find someone who will do that for you. If your dad sends you one more of those stupid marriage proposals for someone you don't know, bring it to me and I'll rip it up for you. Your life is yours, Ingrid, live it."
Dimitri nuzzled against her neck. The words that came out of her mouth would never cease to amaze him. "As you are mine Byleth."
Her gaze went to his face and she smiled. She kissed him, uncaring and unashamed that they had an audience. "Bedroom my lion. I want you inside me again." She whispered in his ear.
He smiled. "As you command beloved."
The moment they were through the door he pinned her down to the edge of the bed, holding her up while her legs locked around his hips again. He tugged at her clothes and boots before they fell away. He wanted to taste her, every part of her. He kneeled down, putting her legs over his shoulders before he began kissing his way to her core. The taste of her was better than he would have imagined it to be. Her soft moans as she bucked her hips against him only made the experience more exquisite. When she finally started to shake for him, her thighs tightening around him as her hands pulled at his hair he finally relented his assault.
She whimpered, "Don't stop."
He licked his lips. "I want you wrapped around my cock when you cum for me."
He let her retreat onto the bed as he took off his clothing, his erection already hard and wanting her. He crawled onto the bed above her before lining up himself. He rubbed it against the outside, letting her wet folds lubricate him as she moaned at the contact. He lifted her up to place himself inside, rocking his hips as she rose to meet him, trying to find the release she had gotten so close to. He played with her clit with his thumb as he continued to thrust into her. She arched and clawed at his arms as she held onto him. He could feel her tension coil up again and went faster with his strokes, pushing just a little harder on her clit. He pushed himself to the hilt when she cried out his name.
He loved how tight she got around him, her face when she came for him, the dazed look in her eyes. His thrusts got into a frenzied pace as he chased his own release. She could barely speak, the sounds coming in moans or cries as she wrapped her legs around him and trembled again. He brought up a hand to tease her breast, rolling the nipple between his fingers and she threw back her head in response. He could feel his own tension rising. He grabbed her hips, as he rutted against her. When she came again he felt his own release as he thrust himself back into her roughly, staying there as both their bodies pulsed around the other. It took him a moment to come back to himself, and based on her expression, she had needed the same.
"Dimitri you keep doing this to me and I will not want to leave you ever." She said between pants.
He chuckled, rocking his hips for one final push before he pulled out of her. He kissed her. "Then I'd better keep up my performance so my grades don't slip. I wouldn't want my professor failing me would I?" He purred against her throat as he licked and kissed her neck.
She shook her head at him as she smiled widely. "You always were my favorite student."
"High honor coming from you." He said, kissing down her chest.
"Perhaps, but its true…..Dimitri, have mercy please. I don't know if I can take any more." Her words were cut short as he took one of her nipples in his mouth.
Her body shook again underneath him as she squeezed her thighs together from the aftershock.
His hand returned to torment her once more. "How else will I get my extra credit?" His breath was husky against her ear as he rubbed her clit lightly.
She cried out his name again, her entire body shaking at his touch from the overstimulation. "My beloved." He whispered against her ear. He licked down her neck and bit into her shoulder as she writhed under him. When she came again she coiled on herself as her entire body shook.
He kissed her forehead and wrapped his arms around her as he fell beside her. She curled up against him still shivering from aftershocks. He grabbed the blankets and pulled them over them both. Her pants started to slow to soft puffs against his chest as she fell asleep.
He found despite the physical exertion, he still couldn't sleep. His mind started to wander to tomorrow and he had to ignore it. He didn't want nightmares tonight and thinking about Arundel and why they were executing Kleiman would not help his mind. The fact that they had uncovered the truth helped somewhat. He was glad to hear Patricia's last words. She still had thought of him fondly, not as some false family. If it was true that she had been so lied to, that Cornelia's venom was so potent to corrupt her, could he really blame her for wanting to get back to her family? She had said that he had to stay in the Kingdom, that had meant that she at least wasn't in any plan to kill him. It really didn't matter the reasons now. What was done was done. He would start to go on living without clinging to hate. If he truly treasured those who have died, then he must earnestly atone for his sins. Father, Glenn, all of the soldiers who have fallen... The people of Duscur who still suffer persecution... The only atonement he could offer them now is to take responsibility for this broken Kingdom that has been entrusted to him and shed light to the truth that they had found.
She rustled and opened her eyes for a moment. "Dimitri, rest, tomorrow will be another long day." She said before snuggling closer to him.
He pet and ran his fingers through her hair. She was right of course. Tomorrow they would fight at Derdiu and he would have to behave in case Claude decided to tease them again. It was going to be interesting to see what he'll say when he sees the rings. With lighter thoughts on his mind he curled around her, laid his head above hers, and closed his eyes.
When she woke up she knew today was not a day for playtime. He was still asleep and she breathed a sigh of relief. She had woke up briefly and could tell by how rapid his heartbeat still was that he was stressed. At first she suspected a bad dream, but his breathing wasn't what she thought it should be. She had been worried maybe he wouldn't sleep at all. She was glad that wasn't the case.
She opened the door and Guren nosed in another basket. "Thank you." She said before shutting the door once more. They had cleaned the clothing that had gone under her armor. She sat on the edge of the bed as she got dressed and started putting on her armor when she heard him rustle from the bed. His long reach made it easy for him to pull her back towards him. She studied him in the dawning light, the scars that scattered over his skin, the color of his hair, and how the light caught the blue within his eyes. She smiled.
"Now what's going through your mind?" he asked.
"Just thinking that perhaps one of these days I should have you wear that patch on one of our rougher nights. I know the reason you had to wear it wasn't friendly, but it did look good on you. I do love the color of your eyes." She said, running her hand over his jaw.
He smirked as he ran his hand along her side. "I might be talked into it."
She grabbed his hand. "I'm already mostly dressed, behave."
"I can fix that." He teased, leaning over her.
Her face sobered. "I know but today's not the day for it."
The tips of his hair tickled her nose and she tried not to smile as his gaze met hers. He sighed heavily and pulled away and began getting himself ready. She finished herself by getting her boots on. She opened the door to let Guren slip inside.
"Question for you are you intending to follow our army or would you like to stay and guard Rodrigue until we get back?" She asked him, sitting down.
He looked up at her, getting into her lap as he thought. "You both will be together and have pack. I could stay and protect him, but he cannot understand me."
"Growling at the direction of a betrayer should be sufficient. I know I've gotten used to being around you, but I would appreciate it. He is like a father to me and I'm about to put him in a position of power that a few people might try to hurt him for." Dimitri said.
Guren nodded. "Fights for alpha are not uncommon. I don't like it, but I will do as I'm ordered. He is family so he is pack and I will protect any of your pack." He looked directly at Dimitri. "That means her protection is in your hands."
Dimitri pulled his gauntlet down. "I am well aware."
Guren nodded. "Alright I will stay, but please introduce me and lay a few ground rules. I will not be treated as a dog, pets reserved only to the head if he feels so inclined. The pillow Mercedes made for me stays with me in his room for me to sleep on. And I will not eat tablescraps."
Byleth pet his head before wrapping her arms around his neck. "Is that all?"
Guren pulled away from her to look her in the eyes. "Both of you come back alive and well and end this damned war."
Byleth nodded and kissed the top of his muzzle. "Will do."
Byleth grabbed a pouch of herbs from her bedside. "Let's go. They should be getting breakfast ready."
The execution went swiftly, the crimes spoken aloud to the citizens who had gathered. The council brought forth the evidence as well as the witness. Dimitri was trying to keep his composure, but Byleth saw his shaking. Five years ago Cornelia would have tried to do this to him. This would have been his fate if he hadn't escaped. She pressed herself closer to him, silent support that she would hope no one noticed with the angle she sat in. He calmed almost immediately giving her a grateful glance.
Rodrigue had decided to stay behind. Because of Gilbert's involvement in Duscar they didn't want any rumors that he had been involved and that is why he was late. Rodrigue was the shield of Faerghus and a war hero that led the forces that fought against Cornelia. It made more sense for Rodrigue to be the one left behind Gilbert had said. The moment the announcements were made and the sentence carried out Dimitri and the rest had left to lend their aid to the Alliance.
"Have you ever been to Derdiu?" Dimitri asked as they approached the city.
Byleth shook her head. They had taken jobs within the Alliance, but she had never had a reason to go there.
He smiled at her. "Well you're in for a treat. It's a harbor city, as long as they haven't destroyed it too badly it is quite beautiful in it's own way."
The city came into view and the sight of the sea made Byleth's heart feel warm. It reminded her of her time in Morfis. That feeling was snuffed out as she saw smoke surrounding the city as the Empire took out the surrounding area. By the look of the formation, Claude was playing defensively. All of the Golden Deer students guarding the entrance to the gates. She saw Claude's white wyvern by the harbor.
Dimitri reined in the horse to face the army once more. "Let us show the Empire that we will defend the ones who stand with us. We will beat the Empire back to their master! Try to do what you can to avoid harming the city and it's people, the Empire's force is our only enemy today!"
Notes: If yall could would you please go here to answer some questions for me about the fic, your answers and suggestions would be much appreciated.
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