Chapter 31: Deer

Summary: Check out Lunafox90 ( lunafox90): /lunafox90?s=09 made a Twitter will put when I update chapter there. Feel free to leave a message. Timeline -rewind -battle for dedriu

Notes: Claude was being very insistent on his time after the battle and kept distracting me from writing the chapter so I finally relented and did it first before going back to fill up the rest. The chapter ran a little long, there were alot of things I needed to string together, but I hope you all enjoy it.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text 31

An Alliance soldier approaches Claude and Judith for the report. "The citizens of Derdriu have all been evacuated and are now at sea! We also have reports that reinforcements have been sighted in the west. Their banner belongs to the kingdom."

A second Alliance soldier approaches the three. "Our line of defense has been broken! The Imperial army will be here at any moment!"

Claude nodded. "Understood. You two join up with the troops in the city."

Both Alliance soldiers bowed and went to their designated posts.

Claude grinned, his gamble had paid off. "Looks like they are right on time. Judith, are you ready?"

Judith nodded. "As ready as I'll ever be. It's been years since I last battled in the city streets. I'm surprised those friends of yours actually came through."

Claude smirked. "Don't go messing up because your vision has weakened with age. Take the defensive for now."

Judith waved him off. "Yeah, yeah, I get it. You hang in there, too, boy."

Claude glared at her. "Can you please stop calling me 'boy'! That's an official order from the leader of the Alliance."

Judith smiled. "Understood, Leader Man."

Claude sighed. "Teach has never failed me before and I'm glad she's not starting now. Let's get this show started shall we?"

Outside the Gates of Derdriu the Kingdom army gathered.

Gilbert turned to from the solider that gave him the report to Dimitri. "It appears the Imperial army has already marched into Derdriu and engaged the Alliance. It seems the Imperial advance has been stalled by guerrilla skirmishes. The Alliance forces are holding out. It seems all of the previous students that were under Claude are all here as well."

Ingrid looked a little worried. "That must be Judith of House Daphnel who joined up with Claude's troops. To think Judith, a true hero, would find herself backed into a corner like this..."

Dimitri shook his head. "It is not so. The Alliance has only drawn the enemy so deeply into the city to allow us to attack them from behind. Brilliant."

Byleth nodded. She had seen the strategy when they were on the hill. "He's planning a pincer attack. We gave him no doubts that we'd be here to help. We gave our word."

Dimitri smiled. "That we did. I still can't believe Claude would risk everything on that behalf. He has placed all of his hopes on us. Let's make sure we live up to his expectations."

Byleth nodded. "Let's make sure everyone makes it out of here alive, and give Lord Arundel his own dagger to the heart."

Dimitri pulled her into a quick embrace before kissing her temple. "Be careful and lead us well. I will not let Claude die... Let's hurry to his rescue."

Lord Arundel surveyed the city. If they hadn't sustained such heavy losses at the bridge they would have been able to take the war to a battle at Gronder Field and wipes out most of these nuisances. That damned woman. If the reports were to be believed she was getting too strong. It did mean that they were going to be able to destroy the Fell Star once and for all. They had to stop the prince so he would fulfill his role to wipe out Edlegard, leaving Fodlan without a ruler. He was supposed to rise from this and with Rhea's blood, they would use their spell to turn every one of her followers into the beasts they were. Dimitri hadn't fallen to the madness they had helped nudged him along either. Right now nothing was going to plan and that fact irked him. "The leader of the Alliance has managed to escape to the harbor, has he? Those rats resist in vain..."

An Imperial Soldier came up to him. "Your Excellency! There's an army closing in on us from outside. The banners...are those of House Blaiddyd."

Lord Arundel cursed. Cornelia had always been too greedy and self-assured. She would rather inflict pain and torcher rather than kill something outright. Perhaps he could kill the fell star here. They say she hadn't left the prince's side. Even if he couldn't kill her, killing him…. Yes the star might go after Edelgard for revenge. "Blaiddyd? I see... That idiot failed, it seems. Hurry up and kill the leader of the Alliance. With him gone, Derdriu will fall."

Byleth noticed that more troops were coming from the south.

Gilbert nodded. "It's the Imperial army's supply corps. Attacking them now would be a fine plan."

Byleth thought a moment. "Sylvain, can I have you sweep up the soldiers coming in for reinforcement down south? Rejoin us as soon as they are taken care of."

Sylvain nodded and his wyvern took to the skies.

"Everyone else, stay close. Ingrid Petra, from the hill it looks like enemy reinforcements might be coming in from the left side of the city. I will need you two to secure that opening right away. Claude is in the harbor. Dimitri and I will try to get to him before we engage Arundel. He is dangerous. I don't want anyone else trying to attack him. Am I understood?"

There was a chorus of agreement.

"Stay close and move in as a group. Talk to any deer you see and let them know we are here to help."

They started moving with the city. Ignatz and Rapheal had taken the front gate and were happy to see them. Byleth told them to stay put in case any more reinforcements came from the south. She noticed Lorenz and Marianne were protecting the reinforcement point. Ingrid and Petra had pulled back to take care of some of the more northern forces that were attempting to get to them. Byleth recognized the pink hair that was ahead of her.

Hilda raised her axe and turned to Byleth before she realized who it was. "Professor! It's been too long. I was hoping you'd show up. Seeing you puts a spring in my step! Come on, time to 'em the Hilda treatment!"

Dimitri nodded to her. "This is your defense point?"

Hilda nodded. "Claude's nuts. Asking me to protect the bridge! That's so much responsibility. But the guy's so helpless, I feel sorry for him. So, I'll do what I can to protect him."

Byleth shook her head. Hilda protecting someone. She still remembered Hilda telling them that sacrificing your life for someone was the worst thing you could do. Perhaps she had grown up after all. She still seemed as chipper as ever.

Lord Arundel reared his horse. "Clever. I can't believe they pushed through to here. Nothing is more foolish than dying in vain. Let's get to the harbor and finish off the leader of the Alliance! "

Byleth knew they had to get to Claude first.

Judith: It's no good...we're surrounded. But I need to hurry up and rescue the boy... To get to the harbor, first we have to get rid of the enemy mercenaries. There's no other way.

Byleth nodded and let Dimitri go ahead of them to clear a path.

Claude saw them coming. "I missed that face! And you're just in time. Thanks for that."

Dimitri nodded. "You're OK... Can you still fight, Claude?"

Claude shook his head. "You barely snatch me from the jaws of death, and now you're recruiting me! You sure know how to inspire loyalty, Your Majesty. Sadly, I'm not free to move here, for many reasons. You'll have to repel the Empire without me..."

Byleth nodded in understanding. The people on the ships for one he had to protect. He could also see from all directions here. In the middle of a fray he could easily be shot down and the alliance would be without a leader.

"Professor, if you had chosen me instead of Dimitri... No. I shouldn't dwell on it. I'm grateful you came. I'm glad to have your strength, if only for today." Claude said.

Byleth smiled softly before following Dimitri back to Arundel.

Lord Arundel scoffed at Dimitri. "You would raise a weapon against your uncle? You've grown into a savage of a man, just like your father."

Dimitri grit his teeth. How dare he talk about his father. "You are rather calm for one in your position. Or did you forget that this is a battlefield? Perhaps this is no time for words, Uncle. There will be time for that after we have settled things here."

Dimitri lunged for him and Arundel readied a spell in his hands. Byleth found herself frozen. It was the same spell that knocked her off the cliff. If there was any doubt now that he was Thales it was gone now. She willed herself to move. If he hit Dimitri with that. It had only pushed her away, but something that strong against Dimitri...This was the man that caused Dimitri so much pain. He was the one that schemed and poisoned. He was the reason she lost five years. Her feet began to move as rage coiled around her. Dimitri dodged the spell for the most part, it hit across his shoulder and knocked him back a step. Arundel readied another spell and Dimitri swept out the horse out from under Arundel. As Arundel scrambled to get back onto his feet Byleth struck as he readied another spell.

Arundel fell to his knees, blood flowing from the wound Byleth's sword gave him. "Your very presence has foiled our plans, yet again..."

Dimitri gripped his lance tightly. "Uncle, I need to know. The incident nine years ago ... We already know you were involved. What did Cornelia... No. What did my stepmother do?! Why did you kill her?"

Arundel narrowed his eyes on Dimitri. "You are not qualified to look into the darkness... You and Edelgard... Do your best to kill each other... You are family, after all….." Arundel's breathing was coming in pants now. "Myson will…. Let there be light…. You will meet your end Fell Star…..your kind does not belong….here…."

Dimitri looked away. "He's dead. There goes our chance to gain more information. Then again, even if we had managed to capture him alive, judging by the way he was acting..."

Byleth grimaced. "Its' something we can worry about later."

Claude came up to them. "Teach is absolutely right. We should take this rare opportunity to let off some tension."

Dimitri nodded at him. "It's been a while, Claude. I am glad to see that you're safe."

Claude "Same. You really did come to help us... You must be a bunch of soft-hearted suckers, eh?"

Dimitri smiled. "If you really felt that way, you would not have set up a defensive battle in the hopes that we would come. It worked out, only because we made it in time... Were you really so confident that we would answer the call?"

Claude nodded. "Of course. I knew you wouldn't hesitate to put yourself second and come running to our aid."

Byleth shook her head. "So much faith in us."

Claude shrugged. "You and I are cut from different cloth. I wouldn't make a move unless I could gain something from it. You've always been just the opposite. And of course, I've always been fond of taking dangerous risks. After all, I sent that express messenger before you had even recaptured the kingdom capital. If all went to plan, I knew you'd recapture it soon, and then respond to our request for aid. It was riskier than usual, I'll give you that. But it was the only card I had to play, so I took the gamble."

Dimitri crossed his arms. "You cross too many dangerous bridges for my liking."

Claude chuckled. "I know, I know. But... that ends today."

Dimitri tilted his head at that. "What do you mean?"

Claude held out his bow to Dimitri. "Here, take this. Use it however you see fit."

Dimitri's confusion was tangible. "The legendary bow, Failnaught... Isn't this the hero's relic of house Riegan? Hold, Claude. This must be one of your jokes. You cannot truly intend to part with this..."

Claude shook his head. "It's not a joke. As of today, the Leicester alliance is no more."

Dimitri still refused to take it. "Just what are you planning, Claude?"

Claude moved the bow to her. "If you're going to lead Fódlan, then the alliance Lords will follow you. Back in the day, the Alliance split off from the kingdom. I'm just putting us back together again. Oh, and I've already gained the support of the other Lords at the roundtable conference, so you can stop looking at me like I'm crazy. All that's left for me is to officially step down as the leader of the Alliance."

Byleth pushed the bow back. "Not so fast Claude. I gave you a promise and you'll need that bow to help us with that goal. You do want your answers don't you? Not only that, you had said you wanted to know what it was like to have my strength for your side. Join us. I know that you need to be getting back to Almyra at some point to get your dream achieved, but for now help us here. Join us not as the alliance leader but as the Almyran prince, help us bring Fodlan's new dawn."

Claude locked gazes with her as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing. "That's why I became the Alliance leader to begin with, actually. But it left me no time for what I was really after. You'd better not take on too many responsibilities yourselves, or else you'll end up in the same boat. And remember ... both the living and the dead cling to us without any regard for our own lives. It's up to us to break free of that weight and follow the path that we believe in…. Teach….I'll do it. For you I'll stay, just for a little while. Let's all work for a better Fodlan."

Byleth had reached out her hand for a handshake, but Claude pulled her in for a crushing hug, resting his head on top of hers as he breathed a sigh of relief.

Byleth pushed at him lightly. "The burdens are hard to deal with alone. I know it's a relief, but if you know what's good for you I wouldn't do that again." She pulled away and put her back against Dimitri who wrapped his arms around her. "Or you'll have to deal with him."

Claude nodded with a smile. "Sorry, I had a moment of weakness. I guess cause you were too adorable. Come on the rest of the Golden Deer are waiting. They've been excited about the reunion, and since you are making me stay, you are dealing with Lorenz."

Byleth let out a groan. "Seriously?"

Claude's grin grew wider. "Yep, since the Alliance is yours now, you get to start dealing with the mewling of the alliance lords. That includes Glouster."

Byleth glared at him. "You're enjoying the thought, aren't you?"

Claude chuckled. "You know, it might actually be more fun to stay after all.

Dimitri shook his head. "Claude..."

Claude's eyes lit up. "Oops! I almost forgot the most important thing. If you're looking for Rhea, apparently she's being held captive in the imperial capital. It doesn't sound like they intend to kill her, but there's no telling what they're planning."

Dimitri nodded. "You have my gratitude for that, Claude. As for her don't even think about trying to snatch her for yourself."

Oh, Claude could have some fun with this. "Gratitude? Thanks, but no thanks. And wouldn't it be more fun to share than be stingy? It would be rather rude of you to keep her all to yourself, wouldn't it?"

The glare Dimitri gave was priceless. It was rather cute how protective he was of her, but it came at no surprise. Dimitri had always been following her like a love-sick puppy, trying to help her with whatever he could during the academy days. He was so obvious it that the deer had been taking bets on when he'd propose to her. Some thought that perhaps the strict prince wouldn't have the gall to it, especially since Teach was a commoner, but Claude had placed his bets that, sooner or later, love would win out. His mother had given up everything to be with his father. The fact that Teach was back and willingly in his arms would have sent Dimitri over the moon. It was only a matter of time. They were both wearing gauntlets, which for her was odd. Perhaps Claude had won the bet after all.

"Why don't you both stay here for the night? I can help you foster relations with the nobles in the morning after I step down. Teach there is someone I'd like you to meet too. Dimitri might find him interesting too." Claude asked.

Byleth raised her eyebrow at that. "Which Alymran did you sneak over?"

Claude burst out laughing. "I can never pull one over on you can I? You'll just have to come and see."

It was Dimitri's turn to be confused. "How did you manage to get one past Holst?"

"Holst knows. Get a few drinks into enemies and they're paling around and joking as if there was never any animosity to begin with. It's also why Holst is good with Hilda coming with me. I almost feel bad for the Alymrans. They won't know what hit them when Hilda starts using her charms on them." Claude said and turned around. "Judith is bringing the citizens back from the ships I used to keep them safe. You should probably greet them so it doesn't look like some invasion."

Byleth nodded. "Lead the way."

Claude introduced them to Nader and Judith and brought all of the Golden Deer together inside House Reigan's banquet hall. It was an interesting affair. There was alot of chatter and plenty of food as all of the students got together. Some of the alliance lords had also made an appearance to meet and greet with Dimitri. There was hardly any time to breathe with everyone's attention. She wanted to check Dimitri's shoulder. She knew the force of that impact, but he was acting normal so she dismissed it for the moment. She also had a promise to make to Claude and she had planned on telling all of the students, not just Claude.

Byleth rose from the table. "I need every person besides Judith, Nader, and Gilbert that was not a student at Garrag Mach to leave this room."

The servants looked over to Claude as well as some of the other council members. "We already agreed that I am stepping down. Teach wants a school reunion that doesn't include others that she didn't spend time with her. She's just too polite to ask otherwise. She knows that those three will help keep it private. Am I right?" He replied.

Byleth nodded. "Thank you."

Claude looked around. "You heard the lady. Make yourself scarce!"

There was a lot of movement around the room until it was just the ashen wolves, blue lions, golden deer, and what of the black eagles had come with her. Caspar, Bernedetta, and Constance had stayed behind at the monastery. Claude leaned back in his chair. "So what's up Teach?"

"I made you a promise that for your help, I would give you my secrets, but I've found out so many more. The truth needs to be given, and it's better to do it all at once." Byleth said. She looked at Dimitri.

"It's your choice on who to trust, not mine." He said.

She nodded and the Sothis Regelia took form over her in a golden light. Claude's chair made a large thud as he stood up suddenly, almost tripping over it as he stumbled.

"It's time all of you know the origins of the crests and what the church has hidden from all of you. What I am about to tell you should not be discussed out of this room." Byleth said.

Ignatz was scrambling for paper. "Professor, your clothing. They were talking about the bridge you were using the goddess's power. Is this…. I mean…. Sothis?"

Byleth nodded. "I can call for her and let her out later if you wish, but for now I want to be the one to tell you all of this."

Marianne looked at her wide-eyed. "The goddess…. You…."

Byleth sighed. "Alright, first truth because I know you have questions. The goddess lives in me through the crest stone that is my heart. Because it was her heart originally, she was able to make a connection to me. She gave me her power on that day in the Sealed Forest, that is why my hair and eyes changed. Her heart is the crest stone of flames, the same one that is missing from the sword of the creator.

Claude sat back down. "That ….that explains a lot actually. Why do you have it, though?"

"Rhea," Byleth answered.

Claude nodded in understanding. "Then she knew what it was. Your mother in Abyss… Rhea has been trying to revive the goddess for a while, hasn't she? What better way than with a newborn of the previous vessel."

Byleth nodded. Dimitri put his hand over hers that had tightened into fists on the table. She took a deep breath and wrapped her hand around his. "Yes. The crest stones were all hearts of the goddess and her children. Nemesis tore them out of their owners and the Argathans, who are slither now, made the relic weapons. They were never gifts. They were forcibly taken."

The room burst out with questions then and Byleth flinched. Dimitri rose up. "Quiet! Keep in mind that the only reason she knows this information is that she had to live through it as the goddess in her memories."

"Meaning she had to go through getting… damn Teach, getting your own heart ripped out could not have been fun." Claude said.

Byleth looked down. "It wasn't. Neither was watching the massacre at the red canyon. Nemesis used Sothis's heart and the sword of the creator made from her bones to kill all of her children. Every relic weapon is the heart and remains of her and her family. That is why Zanado is called the red canyon. Nemesis painted it red with their blood. After he took the hearts of the fallen her gave them to the elites with the weapons."

Linhardt leaned forward. "That does make sense now. The power had to come from somewhere. You had mentioned it to us on the road. The elites are indeed the source, but the crests going through bloodli… oh gods I'm going to be sick. Please tell me that was not the case."

Byleth sighed. "I'm sorry. I won't lie to any of you. The Argathans stole everything they could from the body. To wield the power the blood had to belong to the heart it originated from. That's why the crests have been fading. The original bloodlines are weakening, losing their connection to the magic that started this."

Yuri looked to Balthus confused. "Friend, something I'd like to input I was not born with a crest. It was that elder that saved me. There was some sort of red liquid, and Balthus had a similar experience."

Byleth nodded. "I had figured as much with as rare as yours was. There is also the experiments on Lysinthia and Edlegard. They must have harvested the blood for their experiments. Now they have Rhea, one of the last of Sothis's children still roaming. You remember that picture Solen left in the library of the immaculate one you showed me before Seteth came and snatched it away?"

Claude nodded. "So that white beast on the field the day they attacked the monastery was Rhea? I was right about those two!"

Byleth met his gaze. "You know with these secrets they are the ones in the most danger. Keep it to yourself, but now you understand why they kidnapped Flayn now."

Linhardt nodded. "Anyone with a major crest is a target to be captured to try to exact it. They could, in theory, give a crest to anyone they see fit, if the person is compatible."

Lorenez looked to Lysinthia. "That is how you are able to use my family's relic, is it not? They forced the Glouster crest on you."

Lysinthea nodded. "I originally had the Ordelia crest as well. That is why my life span is shortened. No one is meant to have two."

Linhardt started taking notes. "Lysinthia I promise you right now I will try to find a way to remove one. Professor, if these Argathans have a base, they must have records of their research. If we can find it, I could figure out a way to undo it by figuring out how they did it."

Byleth looked towards him. "You do realize there are those that will take advantage of such research? I want to snuff them out. Crests have far too long ruled this land and too many tragedies caused because of them. We can save Lysinthia and possibly Edelgard, but after that it needs to be destroyed."

Sylvain looked at her. "I'd absolutely love that idea, but no one is going to listen. No crest, no power, you're worthless."

"Which is exactly the thinking we need to tear down. Have you met anyone with a better heart than Ashe? Ignatz has his talent for painting. Dorthea not only one of our most powerful mages, but a beautiful voice that should be shared. There are some other commoners in this room that deserve praise as well, but do you care that they don't have a crest? Does it mean their lesser because of it? People need to be judged on their merit, not their birth." Byleth said.

Ferdinand raised his hand. "Professor, Edlegard has said some very similar things to that regard. Do you think there is a way perhaps that we can all come together to discuss this? I don't think our goals are all that different. Yes, her methods are wrong, but her reasons may not be as bad as you think."

Leonie leaned back in her chair. "Miss high and mighty listening to us. That'll be the day."

Felix crossed his arms. "There's another truth here Boar that needs to be discussed. What did Lord Arundel mean about you and Edlegard being family?"

Ingrid nodded. "To claim that the king and the emperor are related… could it be?"

Dimitri felt all of their eyes on him and wondered how the conversation got changed to him, but as Patricia's dealing with Duscar would come to light, it would surface sooner or later. "I suppose I never told you. Lord Arendel spoke the truth. My stepmother was Edelgar's birth mother. Political turmoil drove my stepmother out of the Empire. Father fell in love with her at first sight and they married. I lost my birth mother before I was old enough to remember her. My stepmother filled that role for me. She lost her life in Duscar, nine years ago."

Felix tilted his head. "Hang on. I didn't even know she was your stepmother. Does my father know about this?"

Dimitri nodded. "Yes. All those who were close to my father knew, including Rodrigue. To speak openly about it would have caused a scandal, and so she was our secret. No one in the general public knew about her, so naturally, the fact that Edelgard and I are stepsiblings was kept secret as well."

Mercedes covered her mouth. "I'm finally beginning to understand what you went through five years ago. I mean Edelgard is the only family you have left, isn't she? To find out someone so precious to you is actually your most hated enemy…. How heartbreaking."

Annette made a squeak. "But wait! You two were born and raised in two different territories, right? So you probably never met until you were both in the academy. I mean don't get me wrong, I think the idea of fighting family is just about the worst thing ever. But hopefully, the fact that she's a stepsister who you never really knew helps with the pain… I don't know. It was just a thought."

Dimitri sighed. "I am afraid that's not the case. Though it was only for a short time, Edelgard once called Fhirdiad home. When I asked her about her change in hair color in abyss, since her hair was brown when I knew her, she didn't seem to remember any of it. Despite that, I still carry those memories. It was a long time ago, but she was a cherished friend of mine."

Sylvain clapped and started to laugh. "Wait! I remember now! She was that girl wasn't she? The girl you gave the dagger to! Heh, so your little girlfriend was Edelgard."

Dimitri glared at him. "Sylvain. If you have ant more foolish things to say, please hold them for later."

Claude was chuckling too. "What kind of gift is a dagger to give to your girlfriend?"

Sylvain nodded. "I do have a few more up my sleeve, but they can wait. Go on Dimitri. This is something I think we should hear."

Felix nodded. "She may be an enemy now, but the emperor is your old friend and your stepsister. Can you bring yourself to kill her?"

Dimitri nodded. "If I must. If there is any chance that the world she seeks to create could be a just one.. then I… I would love to see a future in which I may reach out my hand for her and have her reach back. That said, I have no intention of letting my personal feelings cloud my judgment. Too much is at stake."

Ashe thought on that a moment. "Dimitri is there…. Maybe you should meet with her and try to talk. If there is any hope of ending this war without more bloodshed we have to try. Besides, killing your own family… I'm sorry, but it's not right."

Dimitri nodded. "I… I think so too. And you are right that we should at least try."

Byleth nodded. "I think so as well. Edelgard was their pawn, and as Dimitri said she doesn't have any memories before they experimented on her it seems. I don't know what her plans are, but the Argatheans have to be wiped out for Fodlan to have peace. I know there is a mage named Myson that we still need to take care of, but I don't know how many more there are."

Claude nodded. "Yeah, Hubert has been keeping tabs. He came here a little while ago to ask questions. He had asked for me to keep an eye out for undesirables. There's no way to pry him away from Edlegard. If she won't help us, I don't think he will."

Leonie made a squeaking noise of excitement, bringing everyone's attention towards where she was leaning over Ignatz's shoulder.

"It's not done yet. Please don't make such a fuss." Ignatz said.

Byleth smiled and came over. She had always enjoyed his paintings. She was surprised to see it was herself. Ignatz was red and started to try to apologize.

"It's beautiful. I'm glad you never stopped working on what was your passion Ignatz. Do you take commissions?" Byleth asked.

"For you Professor, I'd paint anything you'd want. Your encouragement was part of what drove my choices." Ignatz said.

He started looking back and forth between her and the paper, now that she was closer for the details.

"Does anyone have any more questions?" Byleth asked.

"Plenty, but we did have a battle earlier and this is supposed to be a celebration. Why don't we take what we have been given and think on it a while?" Lorenz suggested.

Hilda propped her arms up on the table. "You mentioned talking to Sothis."

Byleth shook her head. "I warn you now, she's a handful."

Rapheal chuckled. "She can't be all bad considering who she's paired with."

Byleth closed her eyes and searched her mind, finding the cord that connected the two of them. Sothis was there in an instant. "Do you have need of me?" she asked.

Byleth shook her head. "No we are having a party with the Golden Deer and I think you might like to enjoy the celebration."

Sothis smiled. "That is quite kind of you. I will accept."

When her eyes were opened they glowed and Ignatz gasped. "Such a beautiful green," He said reverently.

Sothis tilted her head. "Oh, you were the talented one that was indecisive. May I see what you have there?"

Ignatz flinched but showed her the drawing that he was sketching.

Sothis's eyes went wide. "Wow! Can you do me next? My ears have points and I am shorter than her and not so much on the assets…. You know what I think I'm actually happier looking like her, forget I said anything."

Ignatz was at a loss for words, but his smile went wide. "So take Byleth's hair color with Lysinthia's body frame?"

Lysinthia blushed. "Why me?"

Sothis looked at Lysinthea and nodded. "Actually, yes."

Ignatz nodded. "I'll do my best!...Hmmm.. maybe a duality piece of the both of you… I'm going to need….. oh sorry.. I'm getting ahead of myself. Welcome Sothis. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Sothis's grin went wide. "I knew I liked you for a reason. I look forward to it."

"So the Goddess huh? Wasn't sure what you'd be like." Claude said.

"Claude do you not understand what the word respect means?" Lorenz groaned.

"I remember you, the schemer…keep in mind any poison you cook up with be something Byleth will deal with." Sothis said crossing her arms.

"Ouch, is that all you remember me for?" Claude asked.

"I have never had a high opinion of you. Your smile has never reached your eyes and I never feel as if I can trust what comes out of your mouth." Sothis said.

"Oof, give me a third strike and I know that you don't like me." Claude said.

"You haven't had an easy life, but to earn trust you need to be able to give it. At least during the academy, you treated her as a puzzle box. I never got any other feeling that you wanted to know her for her. She might have changed her views but that's all I have to go on." Sothis said.

The rest of the time was spent chatting amongst each other and eating. Dimitri was trying to pay attention, but he was starting to feel a little dizzy. Sothis had retreated at some point and Byleth had come back to him with a knowing gaze.

"You didn't check where his spell hit you, did you?" She asked.

Dimitri shook his head, but didn't answer. Byleth placed her hand between the plates of armor to where she'd touch cloth. She pulled back to find blood.

"Take the bedroom at the end of the hall." Claude said, noticing that Dimitri was bleeding. He got up and opened the door to the hallway that led to the bedrooms.

Byleth nodded and took Dimitri's hand. "Come on we need to get that bandaged and cleaned. You should have said something. I was trusting you to know if you would need treatment or not. Mercedes, just because I know dark mages have that poison strike ability can I have you come with us to check him over? I can use faith magic, but I might not recognize it if it has."

"I told you I'm fine." Dimitri said.

Byleth raised up her hand with the blood on it. "You are getting proper care, and I won't hear any argument."

Dimitri relented and followed. He had planned to clean it before they retired for the night. The bedroom Claude indicated had a large bed with gold and white pillows scattered about. There were books and maps scattered around. It had a large balcony that overlooked the sea, with two large glass doors that were latched at the moment. They brought him into the adjacent washroom where Byleth started to unclip and take off his armor. He could tell from the mirror that the wound was ugly, but it was the dark coloring that was spreading that made them all curse.

"Can you handle it Mercedes?" Byleth asked.

"Yes leave it to me." Mercedes said as she laid her hand on his shoulder.

Byleth was glaring at him, and that was not a good sign. "I don't care if you think I am mother henning you. If you get damaged in battle we are checking you as soon as we are able. If whatever this is decided it wanted to spread faster you could be dead right now Dimitri." She growled.

Dimitri flinched. She was right of course, but it hadn't been causing him any pain so he had ignored it. "I'm sorry a lot of things were happening all at once. It wasn't bothering me and I was going to clean it before we retired for the night."

"I'll be right back." Mercedes said and then she left.

The color hadn't improved as much as Byleth thought it should. When Mercedes came back she had a large backpack with her. She handed a vial to Dimitri. "Drink this."

Byleth had to try to keep herself from laughing at the look of distaste he had after he drank the contents. "I…I did tell you there were going to be some things that you were not going to like…I'm sorry, I just… I haven't seen that expression on you before." Trying and failing as he giggles echoed in the room.

"This is something I haven't seen before. It's not acting like a normal poison." Mercedes said.

Linhardt came in and Mercedes nodded to Dimitri. "Oh, I see what you mean. Thank you for getting rid of the blood Mercedes." Linhardt said, inspecting Dimitri's shoulder where the brunt of the damage was.

Linhardt examined the coloring. "Yes, I can fix this. Hubert uses similar tactics."

Mecedes breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you. I'm sorry for bothering you with this. Can you tell me how you've done it so I know for later?"

Linhardt nodded. "Sure." He touched Dimitri's shoulder and pulsed out some healing magic. It felt different than Meredes' magic Dimitri noticed. Whenever she used her magic it felt like you were being enveloped by a warm hug. Linhardt's felt like it was numbing, drowsy almost. It relaxed the muscles and the color disappeared.

"Did he drink the mixture?" Linhardt asked.

Mercedes nodded.

"It might make him a little drowsy, but it will clear anything else out that might have tried to invade his system. He should be fine now, but I would recommend that any activity that would increase his heart rate should be avoided, I'd say at least two days to be safe." Linhardt said.

Byleth nodded. "I'll make sure he behaves. Thank you both. I can dress the wound."

Linhardt grabbed a bottle from the pack. "Put this on top of the wound twice a day. If it turns black wipe it off and come get me. It means there's more poison to get out."

Byleth took it and nodded. Mercedes left some clothes for them to change into before both of them left. Byleth told him to get a quick rinse before she would take care of the rest. When he was clean Byleth went to the task of taking care of the wound and wrapping it.

Dimitri sighed. "I'm sorry. That was reckless of me."

Byleth nodded. "Just don't let it happen again."

She started to take her own clothes off. She had a few bruises, but no wounds. She rinsed quickly, just enough to scrub off the sweat and grime before grabbing the night clothes Mercedes had left them. Dimitri had already changed. He was still looking defeated. No increased heartrate would also include a different activity they enjoyed. It was probably for the best, but he was still chastising himself for being stupid enough to just brush off the wound as insignificant without looking at it. His mind had been distracted. Arundel had been responsible for so many crimes, and he had breathed his last today. So many innocents had lost their lives because of him. The main part of him was angry that his thoughts wouldn't quit going back to how he lost another family member.

"Dimitri?" Byleth questioned. She was standing next to him, already fully dressed.

"Sorry. I was lost in thought a moment." He replied.

"Come on. Linhardt said it might make you drowsy. I may be strong, but that doesn't mean I relish the thought of having to lift you onto the bed if I need to."

He nodded and let her pull him towards the bed.

Byleth felt Dimitri behind her, her back pressed against his chest. One of his arms was around her waist, the other under her head, it seemed to be one of his favorite ways to hold her when they slept. She felt pressure sinking the mattress in front of her. Odd, they had left Guren in Fhirdiad. The movement of fabric caught her attention and she opened her eyes to find Claude's green ones open as he lay fully clothed an arm's length away. He gave her a lazy smile. Byleth's mind didn't comprehend it at first. No threat, so go back to sleep. Then they snapped back open and she jerked up. Why the hell was Claude on the bed?

"What's wrong Beloved?" Dimitri grumbled from behind her, nuzzling his head into her back.

Claude was not successful on holding back his snickers. It was Dimitri's turn to jerk up behind her. Claude burst into full out laughter as soon as he saw Dimitri's expression.

Byleth rubbed her temple. "What the hell, Claude?"

"This is my bed. You two are the ones curled up and being cute. I'm just over here on my side, enjoying the view." He said with a teasing tone.

She flopped back down. "Too early for your shit Claude….." she grumbled, grabbing his pillow and curling up on it.

"Hey now, what am I going to use?" Claude asked with a chuckle.

Byleth lifted back up and threw the pillow in Claude's face before she wrapped herself back up around Dimitri's arm.

"Can you blame a guy for wondering what it's like to wake up next to a goddess?" Claude said, coming closer, measuring the distance that Dimitri could strike with her half on top of him like that so he could stay out of his range.

In the dark Dimitri's eyes were catching the moonlight to turn them an icy blue, and he was not happy with Claude's presence. This was almost too easy. The prince had always been a fun target because of how serious he took everything. Something glittered in the moonlight, and he noticed that they were both wearing rings. He smiled. Lorenz and the others would have to cough up that bet money.

"When did you two get engaged? I didn't see those at dinner." He asked. Of course not, Dimitri was still wearing his armor and she had been in the Sothis getup for most of the night, and gauntlets on otherwise. This would be the first time they were both ungloved.

Dimitri tightened his hold on Byleth, and she sighed before snuggling deeper against him. "She's mine Claude, and I asked her the night we took back Fhirdiad."

"My bed, my rules, and once I head to Almyra, it'll be a while before I get to see you both. " He flopped down and hugged the pillow to him as he gave Dimitri a grin. "So I'm staying, and other guests are taking the remaining bedrooms, so you don't have much choice, Your Highness." He used the title sarcastically.

The silence hung between them, and he could tell that Dimitri was still uncomfortable, ready to attack the moment Claude made a move he didn't like. Claude rolled onto his back and put the pillow underneath his head, resting his hands behind it. "To be fair, because I know your temperament, I don't plan on touching her. She's always preferred you, even in our academy days. It's just…..there are few people that I consider actual friends. When you stood up for Dedue and me in the greenhouse, you showed me that there are people in Fodlan who aren't like the asshole that was treating us like trash. It meant a lot. You earned my respect that day. Teach, you know exactly what she's like. She draws you in without even trying. I have plenty of allies, but friends, that's a different story."

Claude readjusted, beating down the pillow as if it was the cause of his discomfort. "I was planning on going back to Almyra after the battle. Take my throne there and then start negotiations with whoever won the war. My money is on you two. I want better relations with no borders. I got a lot of my answers that I've been searching for, and yet I'm still here. My allegiance is usually only to myself, but I can't seem to say no to her. As you are a package deal, I get both of you to tease until I go back home."

Dimitri relaxed. "I'm still not sharing, and she's right. It's too early." He flopped back down and cradled her in his arms again. This time with his head over hers so he could keep an eye on him if need be.

Claude shook his head and rolled off to strip to his smallclothes. He had stayed at the party for a while to not only make arrangements with Nader, but to give them privacy if they had wanted it. He had been surprised that neither of them noticed him come in until he was on the bed. If he had been an assassin, they would probably be dead. She had noticed before Dimitri, but based on her reaction when she met his eyes she wasn't too worried. When she had opened up her eyes again, it was confusion, not fear. He grabbed an extra blanket from the closet. Knowing the big guy he would probably hog the sheets, and she had a personal furnace by being next to him so she'd be fine. He didn't think Dimitri would let him close enough so extra blanket it was.

Byleth lifted herself up and realized it was him before dropping back down. He smiled. "You know Leth you'd make an easy assassin target if you're not careful."

She yawned. "You can feel malevolence as soon as it enters the room, it tingles up your spine to get you alert. You might tease, but you don't mean any harm."

He made a small huff of laughter. "Fair enough."

She lifted up her head again. "Did you just call me Leth?"

He caught her eye with a cat-like smile. "Yep, you don't like Professor anymore apparently, and your name's too formal. It's By or its Leth and I like Leth since you're lethal, get it?"

It started out as a huff, that turned into a giggle and then a full on laugh. "Hanging around Alois I take it?" she said.

Gods, no wonder Dimitri wouldn't stop talking about her smile. "Your man's the one who asked for lessons, not me. I'm just good like that." Claude said.

There was a sound at the door and Claude huffed before getting out of the bed again. He opened the door a crack and bent down before closing it again. Dimitri was still staring down at Byleth. He wasn't sure if it was because she was still in that sleepy state where her inhibitions were down or if she truly had found that funny. Claude had driven him crazy at the academy. Everyone was casual and laughing around him. The fact that she was not bothered in the slightest with the sleeping arrangement did make him curious as to what was going through her mind.

Claude plopped a cat onto the bed who didn't hesitate to go up to Byleth and sit and meow. "Well fine you traitor," Claude said good-naturedly. She had been giving it plenty of attention as Sothis after all.

Byleth turned around in Dimitri's arms so she was on her back to pet it. It crawled on top of her, purring up a storm before it settled between the crook in her neck and shoulder on Dimitri's arm. Byleth gave a small laugh and a smile up at Dimitri.

Claude was a little peeved then. When the cat came in, it would usually sleep on his chest. Then another thought struck him. "I'm surprised you're not objecting to another bedmate Byleth." He said.

Byleth made a small hmm sound. "Oh, that's what you mean. It's kind of like camping with the mercenary band. There were times when we couldn't get to an inn or a tavern for the night. We all had to sleep in tents or near the fire and we had to bunk with others if we didn't have the resources. My dad tried putting me in the tent with him or someone else he trusted. There were too many instances where someone would try to cuddle up next to me for his liking. They usually never meant anything by it, but needless to say, they learned I wasn't there to grope on fairly quickly. I would tend to punch anyone that tried to get their hand down my shirt as I slept. I wouldn't be aware of it until I woke up and they were knocked out flat."

Claude gave out a snort of laughter. "Yeah, that sounds like you."

Dimitri tilted his head. "You haven't reacted that way with me."

"Because I know your touch, and I know when you're near me. When we sleep you normally hold me somehow, even if it's just your hand near mine. Physical contact has been a constant with you when we sleep, so there hadn't been something to startle over." She said.

"Does that bother you?" Dimtri asked.

Byleth smiled, if not for the purring furball leaning on her she'd kiss him. "Not at all. It's quite nice."

She raised a hand to pet the cat under the chin. "Alright you, I know you're comfy, but I'm going to wake up stiff if we stay like this." She got her hands under it and the cat mewed in protest. She leaned over to set it on Claude. "Your bed, your cat." She said before she slipped away from them both.

"Would it be alright if I open the door to the balcony?" she asked.

"Yeah, go ahead." The cat wouldn't stay on his chest. It padded after Byleth. It was as he said, people and it seems animals were just drawn to her.

She opened it up doors a nice seabreeze came into the room. She sat down against the doorway, and the cat came into her lap. She petted it absentmindedly. She took a deep breath as the breeze ruffled her hair. "There are days I still miss him, but as much as I loved the travel, I'm not sure if I could go back to the mercenary life anymore. It's odd. My loyalty had only gone to my father in the beginning, but now I have so many attachments. I knew it had to be hard raising me on his own. Morfis was beautiful, surrounded by the sea, there were plenty of times I'd just sit on the shores and stare at the stars. We first moved to Fodlan when I was old enough to start taking jobs without any trouble. It was odd with how different the climates are. Fhirdiad was interesting. It will take some getting used to, but this place. Just the scent of saltwater is enough to bring a flood of memories and I'm not sure what to do with this feeling that's clawing at me."

Claude had to tilt his head at her. She was usually so quiet and expressionless. Dimitri was getting off the bed and heading over to her. He kneeled down and picked her up before setting her back onto his lap as he got comfortable. His back was against the doorway and he sat crosslegged. She relaxed into his embrace. He took a tentative pet at the cat, just one finger across its back like he was afraid he would hurt it. Claude figured what the hell, it wasn't like they were sleeping anyway, so he got up and took the opposite side of the large doorway to sit. The breeze did feel nice. It was probably his favorite part about the capital was its proximity to the sea.

"He raised you so, of course, you'll miss him. We only get one life so the best thing we can do is appreciate the time we were able to spend with the people that touched our hearts. There's no way to keep someone with us forever. When they're gone, we need to take the lessons they gave us and use them to the fullest. Even if the memories fade, their influence will always be a part of who you are. If you never take the gamble to know them, you risk the loss of what could have been. I think it's better to take the bet and gain what you can then worry over what could have beens." Claude was surprised at how easy it was to talk to them.

He had planned this room sharing as a way to poke the prince further, but he was actually relaxing and enjoying their company. He always wore his disguises and hid away with his sharp tongue and teasing words, but right now, in this moment, he was grateful that he had made the plan. It wasn't what he had expected, but it turned out to be a lot better than just getting a few laughs.

It seemed even Dimitri was considering his words. "Since when did you actually give wise advice?" he asked.

Claude raised an eyebrow. "I've always been wise. You just never paid enough attention."

Byleth giggled. "There's a reason Judith keeps calling you boy."

Claude feigned hurt at that. "I've grown and I got the chest hair to prove it. Look at this chiseled, handsome face. Are you really going to call me a boy?"

Byleth shook her head at that. "All of you have grown so much. Sothis called all of you my little ones when she was able to watch in the academy days. As a teacher, I had made it my priority to protect and guide you all. I had to bury most of my feelings and try not to get attached, but I found that harder to do as I got to know you all. When I woke up with five years missing, I felt…. I still feel regret that I wasn't there. I was reckless. If I had stayed dead, it worries me to know what this reality would hold for you two, for all of my old students."

"What exactly happened to you Leth?" Claude asked.

"I went into a death sleep as my body healed is my best guess. I fell from that height and then got crushed and buried under a lot of rubble. I always get tired when I'm injured. It wouldn't surprise me if I ended up broken down at the bottom of that ravine. Sothis said my crest stone went dormant for the time. All of its power, I'm assuming, went to healing up my body." She said.

Dimitri shuddered at the memory. "I didn't mean to end up back there. I was wandering around, looking for ghosts and answers to what had happened. I had found myself at the edge, and it crumbled underneath me. I slipped further down to a ledge. I was looking for a way to climb back up when I saw the sword hilt out of the corner of my eye. I had thought that my mind had truly gone mad on me, but I still went to look anyway. When I found her body there wasn't a mark on her, but she wasn't breathing. It wasn't until her hand connected with the sword that she was brought back to us. I'm not sure how many days I tended to her, but she didn't wake up until the morning of what would be the Millenium Festival."

Claude swallowed. That would explain the protectiveness. If he had seen her like that….. it would have haunted him too. "I'm at least glad you're here now. You've always been a miracle."

She smiled at him then. "Me too, and it's not on purpose, I assure you. I almost couldn't face Thales today. My mind kept going back to his spell that caused my fall from the cliff. It froze me in place for a moment as fear and regret caught me. I couldn't act until my anger rose. He was the one that stole that time away. In slither his actions had caused so much pain. I'm not without my own flaws. I too can be consumed by anger."

Dimitri stroked her jaw. "While that may be true, with as easily as you accept the flaws of others, you are allowed to have your own." He said kissing the top of her head.

Claude turned his head away. "Hey Leth, call me curious, but why didn't you choose the Golden Deer to lead?"

She thought on that a moment. "I would have had better luck herding cats. You were capable and I'd probably would have had to depend on you to keep the others in line, but your playful personality would probably irk me more than Sylvain's did. Then there was your fascination with secrets. I didn't know the answers, and I wasn't ready to face any of those truths you were prying for."

"And here I thought it was just Lorenz." Claude teased.

She leaned her head back against Dimitri as laughter bubbled through her. "Gods Lorenez's old haircut always made me shudder when I caught sight of him. Every time I had to deal with him at first was because the girls were complaining about him. He does care about his teammates, but he was so pompous at first. Leonie only wanted to talk about my father. I adored Ignatz, especially when I found out he did art, he was so good at it, and I tried to encourage him more towards that then battle. Raphael was a sweetheart, but with our ration supplies as it was I'm glad he wasn't with us. It's good to see that Marianne has finally come out of her shell. Lysithea has always been amazing, which is why I had to snatch her. Then there's Hilda. I had to clean up more of her and Leoine's pranks than I care to admit. The days at the Academy… I will always look on that time fondly. It's as you said, all of Fodlan in a nutshell, the good and the bad."

"What do you plan on doing about the Church when you take it over? I don't see you as the divine punishment type. The majority of people in Fodlan believe in the Seiros faith that Rhea preaches. That's why they accept the noble system as if it were the only option, and refuse to associate with those who believe in anything else. That closed-minded philosophy is the reason why Fodlan's Throat is locked tight. If you remove the archbishop who strictly advocates that doctrine, that world view is no longer absolute. There's room for free thought. The leadership of the church would undoubtedly fall to you, and you would hold the power to change the shape of the faith, of the world. For the first time, people would truly be free to think for themselves. To decide what's right and what's wrong. Honestly, I believe Edlegard is probably hoping something similar by getting rid of the church altogether. Her methods require too much bloodshed. That's not something I want to get behind." Claude asked.

"We have to end this war first, but yes, there will be plenty of reform to be done. I'd like to use the connections to open more schools if we can. That was the one thing about the academy was it brought everyone from all walks of life to bond with each other. It didn't matter what part of the hierarchy or where they were from. None of us would have met on such equal terms otherwise. As long as people have a kind hand to guide them, the potential they can have is limitless. That is what I want to do with this world that we're fighting for." Byleth said, taking Dimitri's hand in hers.

"You're amazing, you know that?" Claude said.

"That she is." Dimitri agreed.

"You both are. You made two wishes in that tower Dimitri. The first was to have a world that no one would be unjustly taken from us. There will always be greed and envy, people who wish to take instead of give, but we can at least try to make a world that limits the desire to do so. And you Claude your dream is to tear down the barriers so everyone can raise their hand in friendship rather than hatred and disdain. Based on what I know from Edlegard, it's not the church, it's the crests that are her problem. The church is the one that fueled their importance, and thus, her hate encompasses it. Sothis wants peace for this world, and you heard mine. Is there truly no way we can all live in peace?" Byleth said.

Dimitri rested his head on top of hers. "That is why I feel that I must meet with Edelgard and try to talk to her. Do you think it's a fool's errand? Honestly... I think so too. But I must swallow my feelings and grudges–our whole history, really–and ask her about this future that she sees. What she aims for once her domination is complete. What kind of justice she clings to as she fights. And why she felt it necessary to start this war... I believe that asking her these things is the true responsibility I have been tasked with as king."

Claude nodded. "I doubt she'll listen, but it's worth the gamble. If we can stop this senseless killing, it would benefit everyone."

Byleth chewed her lip. "We could meet in Gronder, not as three armies, but three leaders attempting to make peace."

"Don't you mean four Leth?" Claude asked.

"I don't see you adding Hilda to your list of potential leaders." Byleth said.

Claude shook his head. "It's not the fact that you're engaged to him. You could probably lead Fodlan on your own, that is how much everyone respects you. More than that, you are the one who guided us all. You hold the Goddess's power. If anyone can convince anyone to believe in something, it's you."

Dimitri nodded, knowing full well how her hands were enough to pull him out of his shadows. "Before any battle begins, we will set up camp at the bridge and send a messenger. I will tell her that we need to speak with her in a safe place, without any weapons or troops. As to whether or not she will agree to our request... Well, that rests solely on Edelgard."

Byleth thought a moment. "I'm certain she'll agree. She sent Hubert with that message because she felt she owed a debt for all the advice I gave her and listening to her. I think she'll return the favor to listen. What will come of it, that's unknown, she's too stubborn for her own good."

Dimitri looked out to the sea. "I would like to believe that as well. You know...when we fought in Fhirdiad, Cornelia mocked me and called me pitiful. But even if it is true that my stepmother never loved me, I am not to be pitied. After all, I have allies and dear friends who care for me. And now, I also have you by my side."

The smile Byleth gave him before she twisted around to kiss him was enough to make Claude blush. The cat looked up from her lap and glared at her for moving before it jumped down went into his lap instead. Claude chuckled as he pet the cat. "You know pity is the last thing I'd give you. If you're not going to share, quit making me jealous."

Byleth nuzzled Dimitri as she smiled and pulled back. Then she got on her feet and held out her hands to both of them. "Come on, let's go to sleep. We all have a big day tomorrow."