It had not even been two weeks since sustaining heavy injuries from her encounter with the Death Knight. Battered and bruised in combat, Byleth was ordered to take time to rest as her father went off for work. He would return toward the end of the month, and if his daughter was up for it, she would head out to accompany him for work once more. Comparative to a test-run, she would be able to gauge how ready she would be for work once more. Luckily, a peaceful month was ahead for the monastery overall. The Battle of Eagle and Lion being around the corner brought about preparation of the three houses It brought a buzz of excitement through the halls of the Officer's Academy. This would be a true test of merit, to see how far they had come from their disastrous fight earlier in the academic year. Bested by the Ashen Demon, the young lords had their own pride on the line.

These things and events in mind, it came as a surprise when Byleth heard knocking on her father's office door late in the night. The sun had long set, leaving her confused and disoriented as to who could possibly be looking for her father.

Another knock came quickly as Byleth struggled to sit up fully. Some movement, simple things that she had previously never taken notice of, still ached. While dull, it was a reminder of her brush with death not long ago.

Trudging over she cracked the door open to see a flash of a familiar blue before her eyes moved up to the owner's face.

Offering a warm smile, Dimitri leaned into the doorway. "Good evening, Byleth!" His energy first thing astounded her beyond her own understanding. "How are you feeling?"

"As usual." Dry in her reply, the mercenary let out an extended yawn. Pinching one eye shut she still kept her gaze locked on him. "Can I help you at this hour, my friend?"

For a moment, his heart fluttered at her words. How foolish he was, to be swayed by menial things such as how she spoke to him. The two weeks she had been laid up on injury, she had found the company of the lords more often than even before. Dimitri would arrive many mornings, sometimes with tea or coffee, wanting to make sure she had no trouble eating or getting up on her own. Around the mid-day, Claude would stumble upon her, taking her to the library to get her moving, or trying to squeeze whatever 'secrets' he believed she held close to her heart. Far more elusive, Edelgard would appear in the dead of night more often than not, seeking counsel from Byleth for the nightmares that plagued her. Thinking this routine over, Byleth had realized their actions quickly. They were monitoring her.

"Well this is...odd." Sothis yawned, floating above Jeralt's desk she craned her head to look out the window as she reached over her head, stretching small arms and wiggling her fingers. Turning on her side she rested a fist on her hip. Byleth's eyes moved down briefly to see empty hands. It seemed as though her emotions were visible to the crown prince as he followed her eyes down to his midsection. Realizing her actions, he let out a chuckle. "Ah, were you expecting something?"

"Spoiled boulder."

Unable to lie to him, she shrugged, opening the door a bit more as she waved him in. "What do you want, Dimitri?"

The blonde followed right behind her, taking a moment to ogle at the office of the Blade Breaker. There were books and maps everywhere, some strewn about with quills over them. Different colored inks decorated the worn paper. What caught his eye was a map opened on the table in front of her, quills left on them with some dried ink in a pan. He could recognize Byleth's handwriting, a far cry from the penmanship of many other girls of the academy. Ladies of nobility, and of families holding territory in the Kingdom, were taught to have pristine handwriting. A smile curved across his lips at the lack of curls and detail. She had scribbled over some of her father's writing, droplets of ink covering others. The map on the table he stood over had appeared to be a consistent back and forth between the two of them.

"Enjoying the read?" Byleth asked coolly, the prince's cheeks heating a bit in embarrassment.

Head shooting up, his eyes widened as she smirked back at him. "Go on, it was just to help plan my father's course for his mission this month. If you wish to read a tale of frustration, this would entertain you greatly."

Gloved hands splayed across the map as his finger ran over some of the handwriting. It was clear the father and daughter had different views, Byleth drawing over plans and their sentences turning to brief statements. Stifling a laugh, he caught insults being hurled between the two.

"Kid."

"Father."

"Brat."

"Old man."

"Drunkard."

"Excuse me, father. But the correct title is ``drunkard spawn of a drunkard.""

Covering his mouth with the back of his hand, Dimitri could feel the coolness of the metal against his lips.

"That is one of my best comebacks to date, if I do say so myself." Arms crossed, the woman fiddled with the material at her sides before clearing her throat. "Now Dimitri, may I ask what you want at this hour?"

"Especially without food." Sothis snickered, floating over she fell gracefully to the couch Byleth had called her home.

Back straightened, the prince let out a sigh. "There is something we need you to see. Can you be ready?"

"We?" Byleth groaned, pressing a hand against her forehead. That word had suddenly become the bane of her existence. A subtle pounding in her temples had taken hold, the cause of it obviously clear to her. "Your vagueness is as concerning as ever. What have you three done now?"

A hard cough cleared his throat as the prince reached behind his head. "How presumptuous of you to assume I have gotten into trouble with Claude and Edelgard."

Walking over to grab her chest-plate she looked over her shoulder to the prince. "Help me."

Eyes as big as saucers, Dimitri could feel his body tense at her command. Of course she needed help, she was still injured from combat, despite what his mind wandered off into for that brief moment. "Y-yes! Of course!" Approaching her, he helped fit the pieces of her armor from behind.

"I never assumed it was with Claude and Edelgard out loud, you just admitted to it." Byleth sighed, pulling her elbow guards on and she moved to her gauntlets. "Whenever I am involved with you three, I find nothing but trouble at the end of it."

Mouth opening to respond, he couldn't formulate a decent comeback. Running through each instance in his head, she was correct.

Their fateful meeting - Byleth had been sleeping, and it resulted in defeating a horde of bandits.

Returning to the monastery - cornering Byleth and challenging her to combat after she refused a teaching position.

The mock battle - Byleth single-offhandedly defeating them, and then taking on foes that attacked the students and protecting them.

Flayn's Disappearance - resulting in the three houses banding together to fight and save Byleth from near death, doing all of this for their sake while injured.

Swallowing his pride, his stomach knotted at the possible new addition to the list. "Come now, my friend. Don't speak so poorly of Edelgard and Claude!" A twinge of guilt coiled in his stomach as he stared down at her back and side. He was not there to protect her. He thought for a moment of a recent nightmare that slithered into his subconscious. Watching her fall at the hands of the death knight, gutted and left for dead. He could only watch as Claude and Edelgard fell beside him, bloodshot eyes and mangled corpses staring back at him. He couldn't protect any of them. They would fall because of him, leaving his classmates open for the massacre to continue.

He composed himself as quickly as possible in his mind. She was alive, she was there before him, and he was helping her get ready. Dimitri could help her, and he would protect her, and he would protect his friends. Stepping back, he brought a hand to his chin. Byleth could barely contain the smile on her face at his denial. "Their naivety is quite a welcome breath, always bringing something new to the table."

Pulling at her cape, the woman winced before Dimitri brought the fallen side up and over. "Thank you." Turning to face him she crossed her arms. "I'm going to tell Edelgard you called her naive."

"Please don't." Staring at one another for a brief moment, it was as if time had stopped. A warm feeling flooded the prince's body and senses. It was so familiar, as if age-old and something he was supposed to know his whole life. "I must say, despite your teasing, it is wonderful to see you are in good health."

Grabbing her boots, the woman hiked her foot up on the table edge to put one on. "Is that what you call good health, Dimitri?" With the other boot on she stood up straight, grabbing the sword of the creator as she walked toward the door. "Edelgard is right, your judgements can be a bit peculiar."

Ever following, Dimitri closed the door behind him as they left the office, the daylight of the morning peaking rays through the windows of the upper floors of the monastery as they passed them. "Come now, you all lambast me with such insults." Scratching at the back of his head he sighed. "If I am to be ruler, perhaps elaboration on such observations would benefit me?"

"I will consult with Edelgard and Claude then. We will compose a compendium of your history of judgements for you to review, Your Highness." Gaze locked on him from over her shoulder, she threw a small smirk his way.

A groan escaped his lips as he straightened his posture. "Am I to be the joke of your musings?" Walking beside her he felt her arm brush against his, the two leaving little space as they bickered. "How cruel…" Arms crossing, he could feel a gentle warming in his cheeks. "Please, do not call me your highness. Coming from the others, I am used to such formalities. When it comes from you, it almost brings me concern."

"Noted, Your High-" Stifling herself the woman felt his elbow jut out for a brief moment, knocking against the back of her arm. "Dimitri…" The smirk on the prince's lips brought a smile to the mercenary's face.

"How interesting…" Sothis's words cut Byleth's focus on the prince as her eyes maneuvered to her other side. Feline-like, the girl's eyes narrowed in curiosity as her lips pursed together. "You two are close in a way that you aren't with the others, yet they have their own closeness with you that the princeling lacks."

Brow risen, Byleth questioned the words of her companion. "It is rather fitting for how they are. They each have their strengths and weaknesses. You can see them quite clearly." Sothis fiddled with the long golden piece of her robes. "Perhaps I will elaborate later on, when you are not preoccupied with another venture. Always so busy!" The smart tone of her words rolled easily off her tongue, getting a side-eye from the mercenary.

"Byleth?" Dimitri's voice called her back to the physical companion at her other side. They had emerged out of the chapel and into the darkness that blanketed the monastery. Standing at the bridge, they could overlook the flanks of their surroundings.

Stretching up, the woman yawned once more. "Need coffee." Dimitri paused for a moment in surprise, watching her saunter across the cobblestone toward the main hall.

"Byleth, are you sure that it cannot wait-"

"Your issue can wait." She snapped, scratching at her head. "I will not freefall into whatever hell I'm getting myself into without a moment of peace in the night."

Her words stung for a moment, silencing him as he trailed close behind her. He had not filled her in on the details, and he began to wonder if she would indeed involve herself in what he had heard. The stillness of night was their only accompaniment as they entered the main hall, the echo of her footsteps stomping down the corridor. Silent in their brief walk, he was surprised to find her picking up speed as they entered the dining hall. The scent of coffee hung in the air as she raced to the kitchen door.

He couldn't hear most of what she said as Byleth stuck her head in the doorway. Sitting at the end of a table he watched her as her lips moved, her eyes lighting up for a moment before she turned back to the prince.
"Do you want a cup of tea?" She asked, the prince jolting from his thoughts in response.

"No, I'm fine, thank you though." He mused, watching her walk over, mug in hand as she sat down across from him. It didn't take long for her to finish the drink, a large sigh escaping her chest as she rubbed her neck with the palms of her hands. Eyes pinched shut, it was as if she felt the caffeine hit her, eyes opening wide as she took a sharp breath.

Once she stood up and walked the mug back over she turned to follow the prince out and to the source of concern. He swore he could feel the daggers her eyes shot him as the immediate recognition of nearby voices fell on Byleth. "Oh yes, how dare I be so presumptuous." Byleth scoffed, bumping past him as she came upon Claude and Edelgard staring at a large hole in the corner of a wall.

"Good evening, Byleth." Edelgard sighed, looking back to the mercenary she turned her gaze to Dimitri. "Thank you for bringing her."

"What have you three done now?" Byleth sighed, crossing her arms.

Dimitri nearly chewed off the inside of his mouth, cursing himself for how accurate her assumption was. "Claude, are you certain you spotted the suspicious individual you spotted went through...there?"

Byleth threw an arm up in the air. "Of course there's a suspicious individual."

Composure faltering for a second, Dimitri nearly tripped over his foot as he stepped into the corridor, eyes squinting at the light at the end of the tunnel. "I will say...this does look like a passageway, doesn't it?"

He looked back to Claude, who was pressing his thumb into his chin, cracking his knuckles as he squinted into the space. He soon followed behind Dimitri, his eyes scanning the space.

"Unless I dreamt it up while sleepwalking...there's no mistaking what I saw."

Edelgard surprised the group as she stood by Claude, her hair falling over her shoulder as she peeked into the darkness as well. "I never thought I'd say this...but I believe Claude's story." Her gloved hand gripped at the stone that was cut clean, observing at the craftsmanship of the hall. "In fact, it reminds me of something." Looking to her fellow house leaders she squinted her eyes, recalling information that was nearly hazy. "I have heard tales of countless passages snaking beneath Garreg Mach. This is undoubtedly one of them."

Bringing his knuckle to his chin, the prince of Faerghus cocked his head, his curiosity growing by the moment. "Perhaps so." Stepping back he caught Byleth's watchful gaze, unsure of if it was threatening or annoyed, perhaps a combination of both. "In any case, there is no telling where it leads."

"Oh no..Oh! You're right!" A clap caught the prince and princess off guard as Claude rubbed his hands together, lips curling into a smile. "There's no telling what we could find. Terrible danger…" Leaning into Edelgard he continued, "Wicked creatures...unspeakable smells!" Looking over at Dimitri he sighed. "The risk is too high, your highnesses!" With a bow he looked over his shoulder, locking eyes with the mercenary. "I must humbly insist that you wait here, where it's safe...and smells nice." Throwing a wink toward Byleth he couldn't help but press further. "Meanwhile, myself and my trusted mercenary friend here-"

"Mercenary friend, really?"

"...will track down the bandit-shaped person-"

"Bandit-shaped makes no sense." Byleth squeezed at her temples, unconsciously joining the Golden Deer's leader at his side.

"If we don't return from our adventure, do me a favor and call for the knights, will ya?"

Wide eyed, Byleth couldn't let out a scoff before Edelgard narrowed her eyes at him, a hand on her hip as she huffed. "That is quite enough! As though we would allow you to make that call on your own!" Extending her hand to the prince she smirked. "With so little information, it's far too dangerous. We'll come along as well. Right, Dimitri?"

The prince's smile grew, partially in part of Byleth covering her face with her hands as she tried not to groan out loud. "Yes, of course." Again, the mercenary threw a hand in the air as the students discussed their plan. "If it was indeed a thief, we must not allow them to get away with their crime."

"Do you all hear yourselves?" Byleth grumbled, Sothis's laughing in the entire exchange playing on in the background.

Dimitri continued, his face exuding a proud energy in himself. "Considering what took place at the Goddess's Rite of Rebirth, vigilance is paramount. Is it not, Edelgard?"

"Excellent observation." The two shared a smile that surprised even Claude, the young man blinking repeatedly as he processed their conversation.

Claude adjusted the belt on his chest holding his bow and quiver on his back before extending his arms. "Right, well, tag along if you insist." Stepping into the hole he turned back and winked again at the group. "Just...don't come crying to me if we all meet a terrible fate, deal?" He looked to Byleth, "Make sure you tell tales of my greatness, hear me?"

Byleth was staring into the sky, Sothis laughing heartily as she held her stomach.

"Likewise." Edelgard pursed her lips, a moment of hesitation written in her features. "Well, no use dallying. Let's be on our way…" As she took a step in with Claude she stopped, hand on the wall. "Unless there's someone else we should call for?"

"Don't involve anyone else." Byleth growled, taking the Sword of the Creator. "If I have to deal with you three, I'd like as little extra trouble as possible."

Claude laughed as Byleth passed him, eyes narrowing toward the light once more. "She's right, there isn't a moment to lose."

Before they could venture further, they heard a familiar giggle coming from behind. Turning around, the four were caught off guard by familiar faces.

"Whoa there!" Hilda put her hands behind her back, pigtails gently swaying back and forth as she peeked over them to the large hole. "What's all this?" Stepping closer, she peeked over Claude's shoulder, using him as a shield. "The three house leaders and our resident mercenary creeping around at night? Pretty shady...if you ask me." She winked at Byleth before she dropped from bouncing on her toes.

Dimitri was surprised to find Ashe standing beside Hilda, his eyes wide in confusion. "It's certainly a rare and unexpected sighting….especially considering the hour."

Hilda nudged the boy, his voice more lively in recent time. "See? It's so weird!" Seeing the lords staring at them, the students glanced at one another as Lindhardt approached, yawning into the crook of his elbow. "Linhardt! Look at this! Isn't this shady?"

As quickly as he came, he quickly stopped in his tracks. "Looks like a whole lot of something is about to happen. I'm just walking through. I'm going back to bed." Turning around, he froze at the sound of Edelgard clearing her throat.

Pointing at him, the young woman had a playful smirk on her face, one the others had not seen before. "Stop right there, Lindhardt." Even her tone was playful, surprising Dimitri and Claude as they looked at one another before returning their gaze to watching the leader of the Black Eagles. Standing beside Byleth she crossed her arms. "Your bad luck is our good fortune, you're coming with us." Byleth looked toward Edelgard and tried to stifle a giggle as the princess raised her chin. She was surprised to feel an arm drape over her shoulder as Claude smirked.

"You can stop thinking of ways out of this, Hilda. We could use your help too." Edelgard looked up into the sky, trying to hide the pink on her cheeks from the contact.

Dimitri simply smiled at Ashe and turned to stand by his side. "You as well, Ashe. I'll explain everything on the way."

The enthusiasm of the Blue Lion boy fell flat compared to the annoyance of the other two. "We don't have anything better to do at this hour, so we may as well pitch in."

"You have our gratitude." Dimitri led the way, turning back he extended his hand. "Ready, Byleth?"

Moving on instinct, the mercenary reached with a scowl on her face for his hand. His eyes widened as she gripped his hand tightly, stepping up over the stones and taking a small jump to the earth below. Standing in shock, Byleth processed quickly that he had not held his hand out for her to take. Yet she took it without a second thought, Sothis only jeering her own from behind.

"Oh...oh my." Hilda giggled, sharing a glance with Claude as the two followed behind. As Claude jumped over and walked ahead, the pink haired girl huffed. "How rude. Won't offer his hand to a pretty lady." Looking down she lit up as Ashe extended his hand back to her, a playful grin on his face. "It seems the Blue Lions at least have manners!" Taking his hand she held her skirt down as she leaped over the small stones. "Thank you Ashe, you're a sweetheart."

Edelgard thought nothing of the actions as she leapt over, knowing Hubert would have done the same as her classmates would as Lindhardt followed behind, albeit begrudgingly.

"The more the merrier, I suppose." Claude rested his hands behind his head, his eyes locked on the prince and mercenary. "Let's just hope we're not all marching to our doom."

Dimitri began explaining the situation as the group pressed on into the tunnel. Edelgard summoned a small flame, illuminating any obstacles in their way. Heading further into the tunnel, Sothis cut through Byleth's annoyance with a snicker.

"You realize you're still holding his hand, right?"

Byleth's head snapped up as she flexed her fingers on instinct, finding them curled around a hand. It seemed the action recalled the prince to his actions as well as they both looked down, immediately separating as they walked on in silence. Looking down for a moment he watched as she turned her head away to talk to Edelgard, her hand flexing again, seemingly toward him.

Clearing his throat, the prince composed himself once more, continuing his explanation to Ashe as they ventured deeper into the unknown space.


The tunnel would give way to a well illuminated labyrinth, the walls similar to the ones they had stumbled upon when Dimitri and Claude gave chase to the Death Knight. Turns lead down new pathways as Claude marked along corners of walls, just as they had done before. The prince would not admit the sudden burst of aggression swirling in his chest, repetition looming in his mind as he looked onto Byleth conversing with the others. He would not let her leave his side this time, the light bandaging still on her arms and knee serving as heavy reminders of his failures from before.

Finally, the halls gave way to a larger room, the group looking around in awe at the lighting along the walls, weapons strewn about around them. Stopping in their tracks, Byleth moved to the front of the group, sword raised.

"Grab weapons." She whispered, looking back at the students. Their pause only annoyed her as she waved her free arm around herself. "Am I speaking in tongues? It's clear there's people down here. Grab weapons."

Edelgard nodded, looking for and finding some axes as Hilda approached behind her, the princess handing one to her classmate. "She's right. This is no simple passageway. There's clear evidence of human habitation."

Hilda peered around to see the other students grabbing weapons as she walked back over with Edelgard. "People living under Garreg Mach...oh!" Snapping her fingers she pointed at the princess. "My brother used to tell me stories like that back in his Academy days."

Edelgard chuckled as they joined Claude, the young man's hand ready to grip his bow as the two women continued their discussion. "There were tons of rumors about what goes on below Garreg Mach. Holst loved telling me all about what he heard. He told me of passages and houses beneath the town, all inhabited by super-shady people."

Byleth chuckled, adjusting the sword in her hand. "I'm sure the Death Knight is the leader of such a place as well." Cracking her neck she stared off into the hall before them, eyes narrowing. Something had begun to feel off, as if they were being watched.

"It had a real intimidating name too…" Hilda's lips turned to a frown, her brow knotted in thought. "Ah what was it again…" Her fingertips danced along the handle of her axe. "I think it was called…" The answer hitting her, she gripped the weapon tightly. "Abyss?"

"It fits." Byleth whispered, the house leaders watching the mercenary as she suddenly went on guard. It was similar to the day they had met her, her posture straightening as her eyes darkened.

"Two points for the pink-haired gal!" A voice called from the distance, Byleth's posture moving to an offensive stance as her feet widened in distance. Approaching them was a large man, his height and muscle making Byleth's eyes widen in surprise. Dressed in almost all white, a black chain wrapped around his chest. He was taller than even the largest man she knew, thinking back to Torien's height she nearly gasped at the sight of this stranger. He laughed as he approached. "Welcome to Abyss, strangers."

Dimitri, eyes as wide as Byleth, quick put an arm out. "Identify yourself!" For a moment his eyes softened as he analyzed the man. "That uniform...wait."

The man's hearty laugh caught the group off guard. "Welcome, curious students of the Officer's Academy!" He smirked. "What brings such fine, upstanding surface dwellers to our humble abode?" Maintaining his composure, the leader of the Golden Deer explained their tracking of an unidentified person, getting another laugh out of the stranger.

Edelgard's eyes narrowed at the man, her piercing gare not fazing him in the slightest. "Our business here does not concern you, Do you intend to let us pass?"

A giggle echoed from behind the burly man as a woman, extremely small in comparison, appeared from behind him. A feathered fan in hand, she snapped it open, fanning herself as her hair fluttered around her. "Such indulgence simply cannot be permitted." Standing beside her ally, the blonde woman adjusted her skirt, it's length fluttering to the floor as she squared her shoulders. Her smile was nearly unnerving, her eyes narrowing as she laughed again. "Your words may fool the fool, but I cannot be so easily deceived!" Tossing a hand through her hair she continued, "I, Constance von Nuvelle, shall divine your true intentions. You are here by order of the church...which cruelly plots to eliminate the inhabitants of Abyss!"

"What the hell is this…" Byleth growled, her hand tightening around her relic. Sothis floated down beside her, her brow furrowed and emotive for her host's sake. "You think we're here for a fight?"

"This is quite disturbing...there's a civilization underneath the church?" The girl frowned, her hands on her hips. "She said eliminating the inhabitants as well. Be ready for combat. I have a bad feeling about this."

The larger man cracked his knuckles, watching Byleth with a curious eye. "I don't care what the reason for the brawl is...a fight's on the menu little lady, and I'm ready to feast."

Following their leader's call, the house leaders readied for combat as Dimitri clutched his newfound spear tightly. "By the looks of them, I'd wager they're experienced combatants." His back to Byleth he growled, eyes narrowing. "I'm not certain this is a wise endeavor, my friend."

Claude surprised the three as he grit his teeth. "I was thinking the same thing. I think it's time we make a strategic retreat…"

A voice caught the group by surprise, a third figure emerging from the darkness. A young man, dressed in a uniform similar to his cohorts, approached. His hair was a soft lavender color, one Byleth had not seen often in her ventures. Her eyes locked on to his, analyzing his features. He wore makeup, his features highlighted as he gave a playful smirk meeting his glare. "Turning back already? Oh...but that'll make me so sad." His tone was playful, pouting at his own words. "Now why would you wanna do that?" Bringing a hand to his mouth he looked to his flank, seeing a fourth figure emerge. The group acknowledged a dark skinned young woman, her hair a bright red, almost as crimson as Edelgard's cape. "Everyone here is starved for amusement...they've been waiting for a good fight."

Palm pressed against his forehead, Claude quickly wiped the droplets of sweat before he reached for an arrow in his quiver. "Look at that...a flawless example of a surprise attack." Standing at Byleth's other side he pulled the weapon and readied it against his bow. "There aren't your run-of-the-mill-thugs...Byleth we may be in for more than we expected. Told ya so, didn't I?"

Doing his best to remain as composed as possible in the moment, the crown prince dropped his head. "Now isn't the time to be impressed by our enemy, Claude! We must find a way through at once!"

The large man's eyes widened as he dropped his hands. "Wait...Claude, is it?" He paused, "As in the brand-new heir of House Riegan?"

Claude's infamous smirk returned, composing himself from the brief moment of faltering he had just exposed. "Who, me? Nah...wrong guy." Shoulders pulled back, he was ready to strike. "Claude's a common name in Fodlan. It's just too dashing for new moms to pass up." Fingers twitching, the house leader appeared to be itching for a fight, for the first time in a long time. "It's even a popular choice for fake names." He caught Byleth's eyes widening in shock as they darted over at him. "Just a good, solid, all-purpose moniker, you know?"

"Right…" The man's brow raised as he chuckled. "Except there's only one Claude enrolled at the academy this year. Looks like that's you."

The schemer's eyes widened in shock, surprising the students around him. For once, his cool slipped as he moved to raise his bow. "How do you even know that?"

"Ha! You just gave yourself away, pal." The stranger nudged the lavender-haired man beside him. "Looks like my luck's finally taking a turn for the good, ain't it Yuri?" Pulling his hands from behind his back, the man revealed large gauntlets, their glow all too familiar. "All right, so your choices are as follows: line up for the beating of a lifetime…" He shrugged, looking to Yuri once more. "...or let us lock you up like the good boys and girls you undoubtedly are-"

"Go to hell." Byleth growled, her heel skidding against the tile. "All of you." She looked to Claude. "Good job."

"Dammit…" He grit his teeth, his composure faltering again. "I have no clue what this guy's going on about...but he…" Shaking his head he pulled the bow back, aiming it for the one who fooled him at his own game. "A fighter's in order, and it's pretty much all my fault." His voice lowered, eyes narrowing as he braced himself. "There's a saying from the east about fighting a flicker with a flame...seems applicable right about now."

"Finally! We came to a decision! Let's do this already!" The man stomped his foot, taking a fighting stance. "Prepare to face the Almighty King of Grappling!" He snarled for a moment, eyes wide in hunger. "I've been itching for a good fight for so damn long…" He locked in on the mercenary, her posture unwavering compared to the others. "I won't go easy on ya!"

"Why can't I shake the feeling that I know that wild man?" Hilda groaned, slinging the axe over her shoulder. "Ugh! This is so annoying!" She pouted, "I should have just stayed cozy in bed...but no. I had to snoop."

Gates shuddered around the group, the group of enemies dispersing around them in a haze of smoke.

"Stay together!" Byleth ordered, looking over her team she finally pointed her sword ahead, it's glow brightening in response. "Don't disperse until I order you. Understand?" With affirmation of the students, they charged through the halls, pushing through enemies of the Abyss. It became clear to the mercenary that their foes were stronger than any of them had anticipated. Using the hilt of her relic she smashed it into a man's sternum before she sent him flying against the wall. Sheathing her sword, she took the weapon of her enemy.

Dimitri looked down, eyes wide as she picked up the blade, the steel weapon still relatively new. "You don't want to use the sword of the creator?"

"I can't afford to burn it out." The two shared a knowing glance, confirming the prince's suspicions of the difficulty ahead.

Approaching the grappler, Dimitri narrowed his eyes at the man. "Just who are you people anyhow? It doesn't seem right to cross blades without knowing at least that much." His agitation echoes through the corridor as a voice responded in the distance.

"Wow...does it hurt to take yourself that seriously?" The tone of the girl's voice agitated Byleth further, her response to Dimitri getting under the mercenary's skin. It dripped of boredom, mixed with annoyance. "Answer the man's question, B."

He looked back for a moment, frazzled in the face despite his stance. "Why me?" He bellowed out, only getting silence in response. "Eh, fine. We're the Ashen Wolves. We're the secret fourth house in Abyss. The surface world turned its back on us...and we did the same in return."

"Fourth house?" Byleth asked, Sothis's confusion just as palpable as the woman's.

Edelgard carried similar confusion, "A fourth house? Impossible…" Shaking her head, the girl pulled her hair back and tied it up before leaning forward, axe ready to strike. "We have to focus, Byleth."

"Right."

"It'll be tough to fight here…" Lindhardt spoke up, his voice as quiet as ever. "It's kinda dark too...looks like a great place for a nap-"

"Dammit focus!" Byleth grit her teeth, charging at the grappler she caught his grin as she swung her blade, his gauntlets blocking each hit. Trading blow for blow, they countered efficiently against each other.

"There's a locked gate behind him!" Ashe yelled, eyes quickly scanning for a switch or device around the room. Finding a lever he raced for it, pulling it as the others held off the foes accompanying the fighter.

At their right flank, thieves approached, knives in hand. Edelgard, catching the figures in the distance, turned to the Blue Lion Leader. "Lend me a hand!" Before he could glance at Byleth he felt Edelgard tugging at his arm. "She'll be fine! Trust her." The two sharing a knowing glance they charged at the thieves, striking at them as they flew back against the wall.

"Push back anyone that gets close to them." Dimitri's chest heaved as he looked to his ally, eyes wide. "Let Claude and Hilda handle the other flank." With her nod affirming him, the prince felt a swelling of pride in his gut as they raced down the hall, trying to open a path besides the gate.

Byleth staggered back, tumbling as the grappler's fist connected with the floor, shattering the tile as he jumped back up and over her. "Hey, don't worry beautiful, I won't hit that gorgeous face of yours."

Pausing for a moment, Byleth felt her breath hitch in her chest as Sothis screamed at her. "Save the gallivanting for when he doesn't imprison you!"

In that moment, Byleth screamed as her hands caught his gauntlet, barely blocking the hit against her abdomen as he raised his other fist. A flash of pink leapt over the mercenary as the swing of an axe knocked their foe off kilter. Arrows flew by the grappler's head as he dodged Claude and Ashe's attacks, getting a curse from Claude in response.

"I'm not holding back…" He gasped, taking a moment to compose himself he readied his fists again. "You better not be either!"

"You look familiar." Claude spoke calmly, yet his eyes gave away the anger hiding under the surface. "Have we met? Who are you?"

"Not a chance!" Balthus smirked, turning to launch himself at the schemer. "You'd remember meeting a specimen like me."

With a scoff he jumped back, retreating in the direction of the opened gate he looked to Byleth, who was ready to strike. "True, I'd definitely remember this sharp twinge of annoyance."

The mercenary was surprised at the lack of composure the house leader was inhibited by. She had never seen Claude so...unraveled by a person before, especially so quickly. In the months she had gotten to know him, it seemed as if nothing could rattle him.

"Stop yappin' and start slappin'!" The man laughed as he dodged another blow from Hilda, the two dancing back and forth as she backed him up to Byleth.

Between pants, Hilda winced at the lack of recognition that puzzled her. "I can't shake the feeling that I know you from somewhere…" Swinging for him once more, she yelled. "But I'm drawing a blank!" Lowing her axe she smirked as he came closer to Byleth again. "Either way, you wouldn't want to hurt a helpless girl like me." Twirling her hair, the girl winked at her foe. "Maybe you should let us off the hook?"

Looking back and forth between the two women that cornered him, the grappler almost looked happy with his circumstance. "Anything for a pretty lady! Why don't we talk it out over a hot meal? Your treat?"

Hilda's disgust made her gag as she readied her axe again. "Hard pass! Byleth! Now!"

"Ah dammit." Balthus winced. "Scratch that...something tells me I'd best stay away from that one…" He moved to dodge Hilda, surprised to see her spin and strike with the side of her axe instead of the blade. Knocking him back, he met Byleth using the hilt of her blade to hit his midsection before striking at him with the blade, landing just at his neck. The two hitting the ground she gasped.

"I'll kill you. Stand down." She growled, eyes wide as she watched him. Conceding his loss, the group moved on, the gates open to reveal more enemies as the bulk of the students moved through the main path.

Cutting off from the group, the prince and princess cut through enemies that packed the small corridor, monsters blocking the way standing little chance against their attacks. Monsters continuing to appear as the inched ahead only slowed them down further. Another creature materializing blocked their path, causing the prince and princess to step back. It wasn't long until reinforcements would arrive, the students lending aid to clear the creatures out as Byleth approached the red headed woman, her arms crossed.

"Is it too late for me to back out of this fight?" She groaned, "I don't want to hurt anyone."

"Cowardly and smart-mouthed." Byleth hissed, raising her blade she swung at the girl, her dodging surprising the mercenary.

"But in this case, I guess there's no avoiding it." Waving her hands, it became clear that her specialty was magic as Byleth leaped to dodge the spells.

"I need an archer!" The mercenary's command brought Ashe over, firing one after another at the spellcaster. The boy continued to pull from his quiver, overwhelming the spellcaster as she tried to dodge. Taking the chance, Byleth cut through the barrage, knocking her back with a gust of wind from the Sword of the Creator.

Blade raised to the girl's neck, Byleth watched her as she shrugged, face written in annoyance. "This is...boring. Count me out." In an instant the mercenary grabbed the girl up by the collar and tossed her aside. Ashe watched as she slid across the floor, crumpled up and gripping at her head as she tried to sit up.

The boy turned to the large wooden doors in front of them, his lockpicking skills breaking them open.

Byleth cocked her head to the boy, lips curling in a small smile. "Your skills are excellent."

His eyes widened for a moment, before he returned the smile. "It's nothing, like I told you, I know what I'm doing." Readying his bow again he nodded ahead. "We have incoming."

The duo met with the students once more, convening in the room as they pushed ahead. Lindhardt had made quick work of healing his house leader, annoyance written on his face as his hands glew. "How many are left, two?"

Edelgard nodded, gasping as she watched Dimitri counter a foe who had charged at them. "There were two others we came into contact with. We need to take them down as soon as possible." Patched up, the girl readied her axe and charged in behind Dimitri, knocking the rogue back as the prince leapt, cutting down the enemy in their way.

"We make quite the team." He chuckled, running ahead to assist Hilda with another thief.

Edelgard looked on for a moment, curious at his words before a small smile perked the corners of her lips. "I suppose, even if you are a bit simple." Catching up to her fellow house leader, she joined the group in fighting as they cleared the room out.

Before them, more enemies were waiting, rushing the group as they could see the blonde woman waiting, a tome in hand as she locked eyes with Edelgard. On their right flank, the mercenary caught Yuri's eye, the two immediately charging at one another, blades readied.

"Underestimate the denizens of Abyss and it won't be good for you!" The girl cackled, her hand waving before pointing at the princess. "Tremble in fear at my magical might!" Her laughter echoed as her spell aimed toward Edelgard fell short, Claude yanking her out of the way as the two toppled to the ground. Firing his arrows, Claude winced as he felt pain shoot up his arm.

Edelgard sat up quickly, stumbling for a second as she regained her balance. "Dammit Claude!" She furrowed her brow. "Now's not the time to play hero!"

"You'd be cinder and ash if not for me." He snickered, shooting her a wink. "Take her down."

Edelgard charged toward the woman, "You're of noble stock, yes? Name yourself!" The woman's question brought the princess to a halt.

"Certainly. I am Edelgard."

The enemy's eyes widened, seemingly confused at the resulting answer. "That is the same name as the Imperial princess! It's a lovely name...but a bit cheeky in my view."

Despite his condition, Claude's bout of laughter only got a groan from Edelgard in response, a pounding in the front of her head that she only found when annoyance made her its prisoner. Axe swinging at their foe, the girl was taken down quickly as she tumbled against the wall, tome clear across the room as it fell from her hand. "It's not that I'm defeated...so much as that I'm temporarily grounded."

With a roll of her eyes, Edelgard turned her attention to Claude, helping him up as Lindhardt used what little healing magic he could still muster.

"Thank you…" Edelgard mumbled, her eyes locking with the schemer.

"Anytime, princess."

"You're insufferable, Claude."

Staggering against each other, Yuri felt his foot fall back as his blade crossed with Byleth. "Well what have we here? Some lost kids stumbling around in the dark…" Striking at her again, he couldn't hide the excitement on his face. "Stay awhile, won't you?"

"I'd rather not." Byleth growled, spinning around as she swapped blades, bringing the steel sword she stole out from her sheath. "This wasn't my ideal way to spend the evening."

"Shame indeed not to have a bit of fun with each other while we've got the chance, you know?" He gasped, pushing with more force than he had exerted previously, the swordsman knocked Byleth back, surprising the group as he charged at her.

Byleth could only chuckle as she readied herself and flew back against him. "Well then…" Her voice was a low growl, the two pushing against one another. "Maybe I'll show you a bit more effort."

His eyes widened as she swung harder, backing him up before she knocked his sword up, her kick coming up to knock it out of his hand before she tossed her sword into the air, her leg coming up to hit his side before catching the blade again, bringing it down over his neck she pinned him down to the ground.

His laughter caught the woman off guard as he struggled against her. "Maybe I got a bit too carried away…" Looking up at her, Yuri gave a defiant smirk in response. "Nah…"

Footsteps echoed behind the students as their foes approached, defeat written on their faces as Claude surveyed the fruits of their labor. "It's safe to say we've won this round, don't you think? Uh…'B', was it?"

"The name's Balthus." The grappler shrugged his shoulders, hands raised in defeat. "I don't lose often, but I can at least recognize what it looks like."

Hilda's murmuring turned into a screech. "BALTHUS?" She charged forward, standing right in front of him she put her hands on her hips. "From House Albrecht?! Baltie, is that you?" Gasping she shook her head, the girl's composure seemingly lost in spades with her House Leader's. "You look, uh...old."

"Old?" Byleth winced at the wording, but she was unsure why. Looking at him, old was not the first word that came to the mercenary's mind.

Despite her choice of wording, it seemed that the tail end of her comment fell on deaf ears. "Do we know each other, pal?" Scratching his head, his eyes widened as recollection came to him. "Wait a minute...that hair...those eyes...that voice!" Surprised, the man brought his other hand up to his head, hands raking through his hair. "Hilda?! I don't believe it! Holst's little sis?!" He could only laugh as he felt more at ease. "I don't believe it. Little Hilda herself...why didn't you speak sooner?"

The two stared at each other in disbelief, Hilda's hands covering her mouth. With his question, the girl felt a twinge of anger that came out of nowhere. "Baltie, this isn't the time for that! What would Holst think?! I bet you didn't consider that, did you?"

He grit his teeth, looking away as his eyes caught the mercenary's. "I dunno...but it wouldn't be nice." Hilda's silence spoke volumes, the normally chipper girl losing her composure as she glared at the man she knew. "Look, sorry. Okay? Just don't tell Holst. If he knew I raised a hand against you, he'd have my head."

Crossing her arms, the girl scoffed. "Ha! Like he'd stop at your head!" Staring off at the walls she rubbed her lips together, eyes narrowing before she sighed. "Fine...just this once, and just for you, I'll keep quiet." Her emphasis on 'you' left Balthus wincing before Claude cut in.

"Now that that's sorted…" He looked over to Hilda before continuing, "What did you mean about it being lucky that you found me?"

Balthus brought one fist down to the palm of his hand, suddenly recalling his choice in words. "Oh that! One of the guys I owe gold to is Count Gloucester. He said something about forgiving my debt if I could dig up some dirt on you. Figured this was my shot."

The House Leader was clearly annoyed again, groaning as he rubbed his temples. "Aha, so it was purely selfish." He could feel Edelgard staring into the back of his head, and he swore he could see the smirk on her lips at his huff of personal defeat. "But then, was a fight really necessary?"

The question seemed to spur enthusiasm out of the fighter. "Really was! Best way to acquaint yourself with someone is to get into a tussle with 'em. That's common sense right there!"

"What common sense?" Sothis sighed, sitting back she floated as she crossed her legs. "I think I've found someone that's actually a bigger boulder than you...color me surprised."

"That...doesn't make sense." Byleth groaned, the whole situation making no sense to her.

Yuri spoke up, smirking as he watched the mercenary close her eyes and sigh. "That's the correct response for a reasonable person. We're not all as far gone as Balthus here."

His friend scoffed, the insults thrown at him rolling off his back. "Say what you will, but I learned all I need to know. It's clear this lot has nothing to do with the church's intentions."

"That's right!" Sothis perked up, eyes wide. "What does this have to do with the church?" She frowned at their recent interaction with Rhea, refusing to hand over the Lance of Ruin resulting in enraging the archbishop. "This gets more and more mysterious by the day."

Balthus had continued, mentioning 'other creeps' who would be attacking at 'any moment.'

Taken up by both her and Sothis's curiosity, Byleth asked. "Who would attack you?" She stepped through the group, standing in front of the burly man as his posture softened.

"Someone's targeting Abyss. Mercenaries keep sniffing around and causing trouble here. They won't let up."

Seemingly in good faith, Yuri stepped closer to the two, a concerned expression being a far cry from the face Byleth had just seen in combat. "It's a real problem, and we have no clue who's pulling the strings. There are many within the church who would love to see this 'filthy' underground city purged." He continued, unbeknownst to him Sothis was watching carefully for some indication of lies. "When you first showed up, we thought you were here to do just that. My apologies for the confusion."

Hilda perked up, "So that's why you came at us with the nasty 'kill the outsiders' act."

The red headed girl spoke, her tone far more calm than the annoyance she had displayed earlier. Rubbing the back of her head she winced. "As Yuri-bird said, we're sorry. We're all pretty on edge these days."

"Indeed! That someone would descend to Abyss out of pure curiosity was far too outlandish to consider." The blonde spoke, waving her fan in her face once more.

"Tell me, what is the purpose of Abyss?" Byleth asked, the fist at her hip tightening as she waited for an answer.

Balthus answered first, "No idea! These tunnels have been around for ages. They could be older than the monastery for all we know."

"None remain who know the complete truth. However, I shall tell you all that we know for certain." Byleth was surprised by the openness of the group. But what unnerved her more was the lack of information. She had been wary of the church since she set foot on the grounds with her father. His warning had continued to echo in her mind every day.

"Abyss is home to those who shun the light of day. It is the secret shadow of Garreg Mach, if you will."

"Secret shadow, huh?" Byleth's intrigue did not go unnoticed by the house lords, the three watching her like a hawk as she spoke. Her stance, the way she spoke, the whitening of her knuckles in her fist. Whatever invested her in this, it had caught her full attention.

"The church quietly tolerates us, they think they need a place like this for Garreg Mach to thrive."

Yuri waved his hand, following up the red head's words. "To summarize what Hapi and Constance said: the deal is simple. Abyssians never get involved with the surface, and the surface never gets involved with us."

"Alas!" Constance cracked her fan, the noise startling Ashe as he nearly jumped. "For some foul reason, surface dwellers have been after us of late." Fanning herself, the girl scowled, "Further suppressing those souls who can only find solace beneath the ground? I cannot abide by it!" Covering her mouth, her eyes darted away into the darkness of a hallway. "Though it pains me to admit, we, too, harbor valid reasons for not venturing into the light." The students could not see the smile on her face as her eyes narrowed. "That is why, by the grace of our esteemed patron, we have been granted sanctuary here in Abyss."

"Baltie!" Hilda called to the brawler, getting his attention immediately. "Does that mean you've got a reason for being here too?"

The man sighed, "Afraid so, Hilda." Bringing a hand to his head he could only stare at the ground. "I'm here because...there are more bounties on my head than there is hair. Needed to lay low. Real low."

He was surprised to see her turn away, her face written in disgust. "Baltie, that's awful."

Yuri clapped his hands together, his shoulders pulling together as he stood up straight. Byleth had noticed that he donned a white cape, similar to the other house leaders, at his shoulder. "Enough with the niceties, let's get these surface dwellers out of here."

A loud huff came from Constance, her eyes widening. "Nonsense! Intolerable nonsense!" She pointed her fan at the young man before she went on, "Whyever would we let slip this chance to acquire their aid?"

Byleth knew she would regret this.

She really would.

Yet she couldn't say no.

"You need our help?"

Dimitri could only smirk as he crossed his arms, watching the dwellers of the Abyss explain their situation more to Byleth. While she was indeed correct that he had dragged her into something new, along with the others, she did not turn their problems away. There were many people who would not be able to defend themselves, and the students they had just faced off with were the ones that acted as defense against the surface. But at that point, it brought a troubling question to the crown prince.

"I feel for your cause, truly. However…I cannot help but wonder why you would trust us so readily. We are from the surface, after all."

"Trust is a choice." Yuri's answer surprised the prince, "We're choosing to trust you. For now." He watched the mercenary with a careful eye. "It's clear you're not here by command of the church." He smirked, "You're also not just a bunch of noble twerps, either. You can hold your own. It's in the way you fight, how you carry yourselves…" He looked at his cohorts for a moment before looking back at Byleth. "Still...I'm reluctant to get you involved with this madness. It's our problem, not yours."

Hapi shrugged, giving Yuri a gentle nudge. "It's too late now - we already told them everything. Let's at least give them a chance to decide for themselves."

"Most true. Wander about Abyss for a time and I am certain you will come to the only correct conclusion." Constance added, giving the group a small smile.

"Right, what she said!" Balthus nodded, "Take a look around, think some thoughts. Consider yourselves our special guests!"


With that, Yuri would lead the way through the corridors and to the heart of Abyss. The place was packed with citizens of all ages and walks of life, just as the students had described. Dispersing amongst the people, the students of the academy gathered information to return to Byleth. There was a library with immense amounts of information, merchants selling wares just as good and durable as on the surface, and Byleth's favorite location that she had found - the tavern.

After making some rounds, the mercenary had found herself approaching Hilda and Balthus. The girl spun around, extending her arms back to the man that towered over her. "Hey, Byleth...allow me to introduce you to my brother's best friend. You can call him Baltie!"

The man cleared his throat as he took a step toward Byleth. "Actually, it's Balthus. You've probably heard of me." He chuckled, "In the Alliance, I'm known as a...how should I put it?"

Byleth looked up at the man before her eyes moved down, marveling at the muscle on his abdomen. Sothis could only snicker at her host's ignorance of her own actions.

"An outlaw?" The mercenary replied, shooting the man a smirk.

"Right answer!" Hilda could only laugh as she turned back to glare at her friend. "This guy's notorious for picking fights and shirking debts. He's got a whole army of bounty hunters chasing after him."

He shrugged, giving Byleth a cocky grin in response. "I may not look it, but I was once a noble from a minor house. Life's full of twists and turns."

"I'll say." Byleth felt his words more than she would care to admit. She would never admit it, but without her father around the monastery, she was rather bored. There was nothing to do being on bed rest. Even though she wasn't being paid for what she was doing, she didn't mind spending time with the students.

Hands on her hips, the pink-haired girl's pigtails flew around, slapping Balthus before she faced the mercenary again. "I know you, Baltie. I'm pretty sure you got yourself into this mess."

"Aw, come on Hilda." Elbowing the girl's shoulder, he gave her a wink. "Don't make me look bad in front of such a beautiful lady."

Out of nowhere, the mercenary felt her face heat up, Hilda's jaw dropping as she watched the stoic mercenary express herself in a way that she had never seen before. Turning around, Byleth quickly walked off, spotting Claude and Dimitri not too far in the distance. Claude's ramblings about all the new mysteries he had just discovered had left Dimitri nearly drained as he peeked around. But he had raised an interesting one that Byleth would think more on later - how much did Rhea truly know?

Upon seeing the mercenary approach him, the prince let out a sigh of relief. "Are you injured?"

She shook her head, getting a smile from him. "Wonderful, that combat was more than I had expected. I was worried." Looking around he leaned into her, the two standing backed up against a large wooden wall. "This is a most...unique town, is it not?" Waving his hand, the prince seemed intrigued by all that surrounded him. "Incredible, really, that those who faced oppression on the surface are able to find sanctuary here."

"No one should have to flee the surface to live underground, Dimitri." She sighed, raking a hand through her hair she looked up at him, her eyes giving away her feelings with his choice of words.

He quickly caught on, raising a hand he shook his head. "Oh, not to say that there's no helping the situation in Fodlan...to do just that is our duty and our honor."

"Spoken like a true prince."

Hand still in the air, he tucked his other one against his side, the two still leaning into each other. "Even so, I find the idea...rather lovely."

Byleth could only sigh in response as she patted his shoulder and stood to walk around more, leaving him to watch her leave.

"You say ridiculous things, your princeliness." Claude approached, the two sharing a glance as Dimitri sighed.

Byleth made her way through the halls, overhearing Edelgard and Constance in the middle of a conversation in the Ashen Wolves' classroom. Walking past them, Byleth had locked eyes with the leader of the secret house. His conversation with Hapi was cut short as he turned to fully face her.

"You're not a holy knight, and you don't seem all that special...but you're certainly mysterious, wielding that Hero's Relic."

"Thanks?" Byleth's dry tone got a genuine laugh out of the leader of the Ashen Wolves.

"Yeah, I've heard all about you." Bringing his palm to his chin, the boy smirked. "But I never figured I'd see the Ashen Demon down here, chasing after someone and getting lost in the process."

Her ears perked at the title she hadn't heard in some time. It had felt like ages since she had been addressed by such a harrowing name. Yuri would go on to explain the differences of the Ashen Wolves from the Officer's Academy. They weren't a part of the Academy at all.

Hapi glanced up as Byleth turned to walk away, "Hey, new person, want my advice? Don't wander too far off the beaten path." She spoke calmly, and didn't have much expression in enunciation. "Abyssians like their privacy. If you go snooping around, there's bound to be trouble." Pausing, the girl leaned in for a moment. "Wait, did I introduce myself? My name's Hapi."

Some time later, the leaders, Ashe, and Byleth convened as Yuri finished a conversation, the apparent leader of Abyss surprised to see the students approaching. "Oh! It's you!" He looked off in the direction of the soldier he had just dispersed. "I was just heading off to ambush our 'll help with that, won't you?"

Dimitri was surprised to hear that enemy forces were approaching, seemingly all the planning and strategic work running solely through Yuri.

"Very good! Heh." Byleth could pick up on the sarcasm in his tone, getting a smirk and snort from her as he continued. "The scouts I sent to the surface spotted some mercenaries. We closed off the entrance they used last, but it seems they've already found another."

Ashe's concern for the citizens had not gone unnoticed by Yuri, who assured him of their safety.

"Why do I have to go?" Hapi approached, her posture and stomping giving away more of her annoyance than her tone did. "No matter what we do, we're all just gonna die in the end anyway."

"Sure." Yuri shrugged, before glancing back over his shoulder at her. "But if we do nothing, we'll die a lot sooner. I assume the corridor is successfully camouflaged?"

Constance, seemingly proud of herself, cut in. "But of course! Our decoys shall prevent those scoundrels from chancing upon our living quarters. Do note that I am the bait upon your hook. If we fail, I shall be left dangling in the wind." She quickly burst into laughter. "But it must be done, I fear! And so I will most happily accept the starring role in this-"

Balthus approached, informing them of the enemy's arrival at the entrance. It seemed as though Yuri had prepared for any and every situation, surprising Byleth. The young man was a strong fighter, very intelligent, and well respected among the denizens of Abyss. As they followed the Ashen Wolves through new paths that they had not been down before, Byleth recalled something from earlier.

Walking between Edelgard and Dimitri, the mercenary looked to the princess. "Edelgard, I forgot I had something important to tell you."

"Yes, what is it?" Edelgard's surprise at the tone of seriousness in Byleth's voice called for a serious response.

"Dimitri said you were naive."

The prince's face fell in shock as Edelgard blinked repeatedly. "Oh? When did he say that?"

"Earlier, when he came to get me-"

"I did no such thing!" Dimitri replied, his face burning hot in embarrassment. "How dare you Byleth! I knew you would say something!"

"So you did say it?" Edelgard glared at him, violet eyes boring into his. "How am I not surprised."

Byleth smirked, crossing her arms. "When he told me that, I informed him that you and I will create a compendium detailing his history in judgements and decision making."

The princess smirked, eyes narrowing as she watched the Prince of Faerghus deflate in defeat. "That sounds absolutely wonderful. We will have much to write."

Dimitri's eyes widened at her response. "Come now! This is highly unfair!"

"That's what you get for opening your mouth." Claude approached behind him, walking at Dimitri's other side. "Hey can I get in on this compendium?"

"Of course." Edelgard hoisted her axe over her shoulder. "The more writers, the more consistent we will be."

The four had not even realized their arrival on the stage for their battle until they had all begun looking around. An underground arena, long abandoned. It wasn't until Yuri addressed her by the title of Ashen Demon.

When Byleth perked up, a foreboding sense of dread took over senses, a chill running down her spine. Pain throbbed at her side, her injury from weeks before throbbing out of nowhere.

"W-what…" Wincing, she stumbled into Dimitri's side.

"Byleth!" He caught her, watching her in horror. "What's happening? You told me you were fine!"

"I-I was-" With a sharp gasp, the woman felt a stillness overtake her before her eyes widened, lips curling into a devilish smirk. "He's here…" Her breath became heavy, a hand gripping at the Hero's Relic at her side. "He's here...He's coming…"

"Who?" Yuri, utterly confused by the situation, asked. "Who is coming?"

"The Death Knight. He's here. I can sense him."