Summary: Apocolypse mode- so many things happening in this chapter- won't spoil- enjoy
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text 34Edlegard was panting. Rhea really did a number to her. Hubert had warped her to safety as he has been numerous times. She didn't like this. Everything was unraveling around her. She went through what had happened in the past few hours. Both the alliance and the kingdom were aligned against her. She had a chance to take out everyone that could oppose her all in one room and yet, somehow, every last one of them escaped.
Dimitri's demeanor had surprised her the most. That dagger… she had carried it with her and lost it sometime during her academy days. It was a tool that was misplaced, nothing more. The things he said to her. There wasn't anyone left alive that called her El anymore, except for him. She and Dimitri had never seen eye to eye…no it didn't matter. She had a job to do.
She was still unnerved by Sothis. Those images she showed, could they truly be the past? She had lost her memory before the experiment and yet that scene, that room. She unfortunately knew that room well. How that beast had done it didn't matter. That demon had twisted everyone to her will. It had her Professor trapped.
"Lady Edlegard…. I felt what you did. There is another power living within her." Hubert said, as he watched her.
"Yes, but how do I free her from it?" Eldegard answered.
Hubert thought a moment. "I don't think you can. On the bridge and there on the field, that power she wields is something she won't want to let go of. You also heard that part about the soul brand. She bound Dimitri to her and it. He's a lost cause."
"He was always following her like a love sick puppy. I would have assumed he'd be angry at another entity, not welcoming of it," Edlegard said.
A pack of demonic beasts rushed past them. A few slither mages rode some of the beasts in the fray.
"What are those doing out?" Edlegard asked.
Hubert frowned. "We never authorized this. Then again, they betrayed us the moment they sent those javelins down."
Edlegard shook her head. "We had a plan! Why is everything falling apart around us?"
Hubert chuckled. "They say where the fell star falls she ruins all the plans of the dark with her light. It seemed childlike to me, it had even looked like a child in that vision. Pieces were missing. She stopped us from seeing what Nemesis did afterwards. Those blood samples they were talking about, I think I have a hunch on where those that slither in the dark got them originally. She also never showed us where Nemesis got that sword. May I see Aymr?"
Edlegard put it down in front of him. Since Hubert didn't have a crest it would be unwise for him to lay his hands on it. He studied a moment. "It's as I thought."
"What do you mean by that?" Edlegard asked.
Hubert leaned back. "The texture of the weapon I would say is bone. The reason Nemesis went into Zanado that day was not to settle a dispute, he went in there to harvest."
"Very good Hubert. So I see you were able to meet the Fell Star then? Quite something isn't she? The sword of the creator is made from her bones and that is why the weapon is so strong." A figure with a hat said coming into their space.
"What did you think you were pulling with that stunt earlier Myson?" Edlegard snapped.
"To be honest I was shocked to hear that the star was able to deflect it all. I even here she's chosen a soul mate to bind with and together their power was able to shatter our javelins," Myson said.
Hubert rose. "You could have killed Lady Edelgard!"
Myson shrugged. "As long as we could harvest the Fell Star any other losses wouldn't matter. You are no longer needed Flame Emperor. Once we have her blood and bones we can create new weapons and subjugate all of Fodlan and those beasts will be gone."
Edlegard remained calm, dispute seething on the inside. "Tell me why did my father give me up to you then?"
Myson laughed. "Your father was a pitiful man who kept having children with the hopes that one of them would be born with a major crest. No, little girl, your uncle was the one that led us to glory. He is the one that had faith that you would be the one in the group of siblings to make it. His intuition was correct and you have been such a wonderful little pawn. We needed the regions at war and you played that guise perfectly. Even after we got your mother to betray Lambert for keeping her away from a child he had no knowledge was even in his kingdom at the time the prince is still willing to forgive you. I will give you one last chance to attempt to kill the prince and those that follow him. If you fail we will feed your heart to Nemesis."
Edlegard was about to make a retort when a burly man stepped up next to Myson. She recognized him from the visions that were shown earlier. Edlegard didn't want to believe her eyes. All her life she had believed in absolutes. Claude had been right she had never questioned anything and never let anyone question her. Myson just told her what she had seen, a memory that she didn't know she even had was a truth. And what was that about her mother? That memory with Dimitri all those years ago. She had forgotten about it, but he most certainly had not.
Nemesis looked just as he had in what was shown to her. The sword he carried was similar to the sword of the creator, but with two places for creststones. The soldiers that marched behind them were all black and misty.
"On second thought. Perhaps your usefulness has seen its end. Why bother with a stray when you can be used to increase his power." Myson said.
With a snap of Myson's fingers, Nemesis was on her, her feet dangling as he held her by the throat. She beat at Nemesis's forearm.
"I am on your side. I wish to see them gone as well. We need to bring a new dawn to Fodlan." Edglegard choked out.
"You have always been nothing more than fuel on their funeral pyre my dear. You will never see another dawn." Myson said.
Hubert shot a spell at both Myson and at Nemesis. Nemesis glared and dropped Edlegard, turning his attention to Hubert. Edlegard ground her teeth as she saw Hubert reading a warp spell for her. He was willing to die to get her to safety. She didn't like whatever this feeling was. Everyone around her was nothing but tools, but Hubert was a tool she had learned to rely on. Yes, he was a stickler who wouldn't allow her to do the things she'd rather do, but he kept her focused on the tasks at hand. She rose and tackled Nemesis as he readied his weapon to strike Hubert and then while Nemesis was off-balanced she jumped for Hubert and he warped them out.
Nemesis resumed a stand by position. "I am not a dog. Snap your fingers at me again and I will snap your neck."
Myson bowed. "Yes, great Nemesis. I apologize. I'm too used to ordering my subordinates around. Thales was supposed to be the one to awaken you. I don't know what his requirements were. I've already induced the blood craze onto her people. Sothis has been reborn into a girl and as far as we know only three Nabateans left residing here in Fodlan. They should do our job for us and then you can wipe them out."
"Hmph, we'll see it these opponents will be worth my time," Nemesis said.
Byleth backed away as Rhea rose to her immaculate one form. "Constance! That spell I had you working on, please tell me you have what you need on you!"
Constance landed beside her. "I have most of it. It will take time. I will need another mage to help me channel it and I cannot be interrupted. I can use that heal tile and use it's magic to help channel things."
Byleth nodded. "What do you still need?"
"We are short on Umbral Steel," Constance said.
Dimitri glanced back to the Demonic Beasts swarming the fields. "Well that's at least convenient." His deadpan tone told them how unamused he was with this situation.
Byleth nodded. This entire situation had been one madness after another. "Take Hapi with you to help you with the spell. Everyone else listen up before this transformation finishes. Try to stay away from Rhea and the other transformed knights. I need you to concentrate on the demonic beasts! Break those shields and get the umbral steel back to Hapi and Constance. Balthus, Raphael, I need both of you to stay near that heal title. No enemy is allowed to touch them. We'll try to keep Rhea's attention on us. Fan out in pairs. Watch out for each other and be prepared for anything!"
When Sylvain caught sight of the army behind the demonic beasts he cursed. "Whoever the hell turned on apocalypse mode needs to turn it down a notch!"
Felix glared at him. "Quit complaining and get ready to fight."
"Do you not see the giant army that's also coming our way?" Sylvain shouted.
Byleth turned to the phantoms that were coming into view from the treeline. "You have got to be kidding me."
Rhea turned to the beasts and phantoms and shot a blast that tore most of the army apart before roaring up at the sky. One figure walked straight through the path that Rhea blasted. Dimitri's blood went cold when he realized who it was. There was no way. Rhea was out of control attacking anything in her path the moment she caught sight of Nemesis. With her roar, the other white beasts followed her to face the phantom soldiers. Byleth gripped her sword and dashed for the still dazed demonic beasts, tearing apart their shields as the umbral steel fell from their bodies.
"Someone grab these and bring them to Constance! Rhea's going to get herself killed if she keeps this up!" Byleth said as she advanced forward.
Myson grinned as the beasts came forward, using Seraphim to take them out one by one. The rest of the mages fanning out to help take care of the other white beasts. Rhea's rage seemed to only escalate as she heard their cries. Claude was helping the group take out some more demonic beasts before Constance yelled out that she was ready. Byleth closed her eyes and let Sothis through.
"Rhea! Please come to me!" Sothis called.
Rhea roared but she ignored Sothis as if she couldn't hear her. The phantom soldiers were starting to attack her now. Green blood oozed from her wounds.
"Dimitri! Grab her by the tail, we need her towards Constance!" Sothis shouted.
He finished off the demonic beast that he was engaged with. He gave her his lance and then did as she asked, grabbing Rhea's tail and pulling on it. Rhea snarled and turned on him, attempting to slam him into the ground. He held on until the last moment before he landed near where she had smacked it down.
Sothis gave him back the lance pelting a bolt into Rhea's face. "I still haven't gotten to yell at you for all the things you've done so you are not dying on me today!"
"The spell is ready!" Constance yelled.
Sothis nodded. "Start the enchantment! We'll bring Rhea to you."
Dimitri grabbed her by the waist as Rhea slammed her tail once more with the intent of hitting Sothis with it. He dodged away from it and had Rhea's undivided attention now. Seteth was flying overhead to try to make sure that she kept her attention towards the correct targets. Soldiers had to flee from her clawed steps as she ignored the risk of hurting her allies. A sudden flash of red came from the side as Dimitri had to dodge a swipe from Edlegard. When had she gotten that close?
"Marianne! Hubert is around here somewhere! Silence him!" Sothis ordered.
Marianne turned Dorte in circles as she looked around for the dark mage. When her eyes found him he was starting a spell to hit Dimitri. She cast the silence and watched as the dark magic he had been forming dissipate. Lysithea came up from the side and slammed Hubert with a spell to knock him down. Lorenez came to knock him out. Marianne's spell would keep him from being able to warp. They wouldn't be able to keep them on the battlefield. Lorenez called for Ferdinand to take Hubert and he obliged.
Dimitri had let go of Sothis who had let Byleth back in control. Rhea's attacks were unfocused as she went back and forth from Dimitri and Edlegard.
Byleth left backward to head to Constance. The steel had been combined into an arrow that glowed with magic. Constance handed it to her. "It has to hit the crest on her forehead. The rest of the spell's effects should spread to the others."
Byleth nodded and searched the sky. She needed Ashe or Claude. She found Ashe towards the phantom soldiers and that would be too far away. He was in a defensive line with the other archers and mages to keep the other phantom soldiers at bay. Hilda was near her which means that Claude should not be far behind. She saw him and called out for him. He banked towards her keeping a wary eye on Rhea. Byleth threw the arrow up to him with a tap to her forehead, to signal where Rhea's crest was. Claude caught it and nodded before he got into position and aimed. The light from the magic intensified as it flew in the air and it hit Rhea right in the crest mark. Light flared across the battlefield as the beasts shook their heads before retreating to Rhea.
Rhea roared once more before she fell to her side. Dimitri took Edlegard's lapse in attention to dive in and slam the flat side of his lance against the back of Edlegard's head and watched as she crumpled unconscious to the ground. Constance came to grab her off of the field. Seteth landed as Rhea's form started to disappear into light that scattered like flower petals away from her. The arrow fell to the ground. He took Rhea in his arms and was concerned a moment before breathing a sigh of relief. He nodded to Dimitri before taking Rhea back on his wyvern and retreating off of the field.
Dimitri steadied himself as he prepared for the next half of the battle. All that stood before them were the slither mages, the shadow warriors, Myson, and Nemesis. Byleth came and stood beside him.
She did a quick scan of the field. "Everyone is accounted for. I'll take Myson, do you think you can handle Nemesis?"
Dimitri nodded and Byleth gathered everyone up for Mercedes to use her Fortify for the group. They advanced and immediately the mages tried to block them from a long range as the rest advanced closer. Byleth raised her Sothis shields before having the archers retaliate in kind. The mages shot the warriors with magic before the melee came in to cut the rest down. Myson was getting more nervous as more of their forces fell. Nemesis kept his stoic features but started focusing on Dimitri. Now he should be able to put up a good fight.
Ashe shot an arrow at Nemesis and it bounced off of a barrier. Byleth turned to the shadow that looked the most distinguished of the shadows and slashed her blade through it, watching as one of the pieces of the barriers around Nemesis fall.
Claude noticed it too. "There is some sort of bond between him and the ten elites! Take care of them before you head for nemesis!"
The fight began anew as most of the forces of the mages surrounded the pivotal warriors. Byleth smiled, that made them that much easier to spot and target. She sent out teams to every group as she went directly for Myson. Nemesis blocked her path and with that barrier she couldn't do any damage.
"That sword…you bear the crest of flames as I do. You must be the one reborn. As I pulled your heart out once before, I shall do it again and make it my own." Nemesis swung his sword at her and she had to dodge.
"Sorry but I'll be keeping my heart, and it sure as hell doesn't belong to you," Byleth said.
One by one the elites fell around them and Byleth was still stuck in a dance with Nemesis. Myson kept trying to blast a spell to give Nemesis an advantage, but she was faster. Dimitri was facing the other Blaiddyd bearer since no one else would be able to match his strength. It was daunting and he was just thankful that his relic could take such force. The shadow left an opening and Dimitri took it, cleaving them in two. The final barrier broke on Nemesis and he bellowed as Byleth's strike drew blood.
Dimitri was at her side as soon as his feet would allow him. Everyone had fought valiantly and so far there had been no deaths on their side. When he stood before Nemesis he wished that Byleth had sparred with her relic weapon with him. He knew that was a dangerous thing to do, one slip could mean a serious injury, but the whip-like motion was something he hadn't fought against before. Claude was trying to help by shooting arrows from above. When Byleth killed Myson the rest of the Agatheans tried to flee. She got Constance's attention to follow to see where they led before joining Dimitri against Nemesis.
"Are you too afraid to face me in lone combat?" Nemesis sneered.
Dimitri nodded. "He's right. Please stay out of this. I don't want to hurt you by accident."
Byleth sighed. "Watch his wrists. The sword works like an extension of our arms. The tilt determines the trajectory. You saw how Rhea had been able to disarm him."
Dimitri gripped his lance as the rest watched the showdown between the two powerhouses. Byleth felt that she should be out there helping him. Claude was getting irritated and wanted to take a few shots, but Byleth only shook her head. Claude soon went and followed after the trail that Constance had followed. Felix growled beside her. None of them liked being idle like this but it was literally just Nemesis left and while she worried she knew that Dimitri would want this won with his own skill.
When Dimitri broke Nemesis's sword Byleth thought the fight over, but Nemesis still kept moving. She lunged forward as Dimitri had to jump back. Nemesis had thrown out a kick towards Dimitri. She slashed her sword down. White light poured from the wound as Nemesis fell backward. What was left of the soldiers bodies faded away like sand.
Ashe looked around. "Is it over?"
Dimitri took Byleth into his arms and held her tight. "Yes, I think so."
Claude hovered overhead. "Based on the destruction they left behind I think it's safe to say it's going to be easy to find their base and finish them off."
Dimitri nodded. "Well fought all of you! Can you handle one more battle before we all head back? We can't let them have time to destroy information or escape."
Most of the group nodded that they would be able to continue. The few that were wounded were permitted to stay behind. He had one of them send over his horse and Byleth rode with him. There were mounts given to each of them so they could keep up with the fliers above them. The giant hole in the middle of Hyrm territory didn't look all that inviting.
"So the dragons worst enemies are mole people!" Claude joked.
Hapi glared up at him. "Sometimes you have no choice but to live underground and we aren't moles!"
What they found inside the base was like nothing he had ever seen. There was only one mage of any consequence left and she had been controlling large machine like dolls to help protect the area. She was easily disposed of. Linhardt and Constance found the library and started pouring over the information there and it didn't take long for Lindhart to find the information he needed to save Lysinthea.
Dimitri and Byleth agreed to let them research, but nothing was to be taken out of there and it would all be destroyed. They went to Enbarr since it was close to force a surrender because they had captured Edlegard. They returned to the monastery after that. Rhea had only come to her senses briefly and would only apologize profusely before she would pass out again. Linhardt gathered the other healers and Hanneman together to tell them how to heal Lysinthea before returning for more research. When the Empire's surrender came the next day they could all breathe a little easier.
When Edlegard woke up she was aware of a few things, one her armor had been replaced by clothing similar to her school uniform. Second, she had bracelets around her wrists that were enchanted with silence. If she could warp on her own it would be impossible to do with these on and no one could warp her either. Third, she was laying on a bed but the window and door had bars on them. There was a tub and other necessities covered only by a thin foggy glass material that would only indicate what's behind it, but still give the person privacy.
"Ah, you're finally awake!" A voice said from the other side of the bars.
Eldegard rubbed her temple. She knew that voice.
"Lady Edlegard are you unharmed?" She heard Hubert ask. It sounded like he was in the room next to hers.
So Hubert was still alive. That was at least promising. Edlegard looked ahead to see Ferdinand on a cushioned bench with several books at his side.
"Let me out this instant Ferdinand! You are nothing more than a traitor to your country!" She sneered.
Ferdinand only glanced at her before he took a deep breath. "The Empire no longer. We have you locked up for your own good Edlegard. Dimitri nor Byleth wished to kill you but we had to get you out of the way in order for surrender negotiations to be made. You've been out for over two weeks. Lindhart says that the operation was successful and that you should start to be feeling better once you get back on your feet."
Edlegard put her hand at her chest, feeling a small cut that was healing under her fingers. "What did you do to me? What do you mean surrender? The Empire would continue to fight for such a worthy cause!"
Ferdinand tilted his head. "Your crests were killing you from the inside. As for the war, Edlegard the Empire surrendered the day after you were captured. The only reason people followed you was out of fear."
"That….. that can't be true. And what of the church? What of Rhea? She can't still be alive, can she?" Edlegard said.
Ferdinand nodded. "Yes whatever spell they used on her faded out when Constance used hers. Rhea's weak, but alive. She has officially stepped down as Archbishop. Byleth has been in charge for the moment as she and Dimitri work to stitch this world back together. Byleth hasn't named a successor, but she won't stay archbishop for long. Her coronation is next week and then Dimitri's will be the week after."
"Dimitri?" She echoed.
Ferdinand looked up at her. "Yes, to be king of course. The two of them have been working around the clock to make sure everyone who was affected by the war has been taken care of. Byleth has opened up every cathedral to be a place for people to rest and get food and assign jobs for people to help with the restorations. It's been quite nice seeing everyone rely on each other. Once everything calms down she hopes that she can turn them into a place to teach the commoners to read and write."
Edlegard was confused. "Why would she do such a thing?"
Ferdinand looked at Edlegard. "Is that not what you wanted to do? To bring all the classes together? I had given you the suggestion before of public schooling. Byleth wants to rid the church of its corruption and Sothis wants it to be a place she can be proud of. They've made a lot of changes already. Fodlan for the first time in a long time is flourishing with hope as it gets back on its feet. Byleth is excited for the reopening of the Officer's Academy next spring."
"All the better to shove the doctrines of the church down the youth's throats…" Edlegard sneered.
Ferdinand chuckled. "You don't get it, do you? She's taken all of those classes out. The cathedral will still be holding choir practice and anyone interested in the faith can learn, but no one is required to take them. She's also adding classes on things like how to deal with the aftermath of the battle, how to live with yourself and help others cope around you, that sort of thing. The different regions have also been invited to offer up a teacher for seminars on how their countries work to help harbor friendship between the territories. In time they hope that the children of those regions may join as well."
Edlegard huffed at that. "Optimistic fools, the lot of them."
"You may think it foolish, but it is working. I want the peace we create to last. It does no good to remain ignorant. You taught me that." Dimitri said as he walked up to her cell. He wasn't dressed in his armor, but rather just a high collared shirt and pants. "Thank you, Ferdinand. Go grab some food and drink for them. Let Byleth know where I am if you see her."
Ferdinand bowed to her and then to him. "Oh I think I found that solution you were looking for if I may talk about it at length with you later."
Dimitri nodded. "I'll be happy to listen. Your insight has been most valuable Ferdinand."
Edlegard watched him go and sighed. "So I am your prisoner then?"
Dimitri sat down. "As long as you remain blind and stubborn yes."
Hubert scowled at him from his cell. "Lady Edlegard has only had the benefit of Fodlan in the forefront."
Dimitri glared at him. "Then tell me, why would she group with the ones that have done nothing but terrorize Fodlan for centuries? What gain comes from her actions for the people who have to live in it? Her war was born out of a naive and selfish vision that the world's enemies took full advantage of."
Edelgard grabbed at the bars. "And what gives you the right to lecture me!"
Dimitri brought his gaze to hers. "You have done nothing but take. I know exactly what it's like to lose your family to tragedy. I don't dismerit the distress it caused you, nor the hatred. Duscar, Jeralt, Remire, and this whole damned war, your list of sins are far greater than my own. The difference between us is that I will fight for the people that call this land home. I killed because they were an enemy. I fought for the dead in hopes that I could save them, but never did I fight for my own selfish reasons. Tell me Edlegard, why did you fight? Why did you have to do it alone as if no one's opinion matters but your own?"
Edlegard was silent.
Dimitri stood. "You had said I wouldn't understand the common people, but that is where you are wrong. Out of all of us you do not know what it's like. Claude had the persecution shadowing his every step. I may have been born prince, but that does not mean that my life has always been in luxury. Those five years I had to scrap together enough to try to live on my own. When I went into towns for information I heard what they had to go through. When I was in the academy with Ashe he helped to teach me how big of a gap we have."
"And yet you will have the gall to be crowned king of the nation," Edlegard interrupted.
Dimitri shook his head. "It's something that Claude said, Fodlan is like a newborn and will be easily upset. Without a parent to teach it until it can stand on its own, they will lose their way in the confusion. I will step down once I feel that I am no longer needed to help guide it along."
Dimitri heard the rattling of trays as someone approached. He saw Ferdinand with Dorthea and Byleth behind him.
"A coffee for you Hubie." Dorthea said pushing it through the hole in the bottom of the bars.
Byleth came over to Dimitri and leaned against him. "You look tired beloved," he said.
"You aren't fairing much better. Let me guess, you've already been arguing." Byleth said.
Dimitri sighed. "I'm attempting to be civil."
Byleth huffed. "You can't help that your personalities are on the opposite scales of the spectrum. If she won't listen then it's not your fault so stop blaming yourself. You're only going to give yourself heartache you don't need added on to everything else."
"I am right here," Edlegard said.
Byleth looked over to her. "How are you feeling?"
"Like I want out of here," Edlegard responded.
"You're a threat to everything," Byleth said.
"Then kill me! That's the only way this ends," Edlegard said.
Byleth came to the bars, her eyes locking with Edlegards. "Do you wish for death so badly?" Byleth reached past the bars and cupped Edlegard's cheek. "The reason I never chose your house El was because I had the feeling that even with my guidance you would still do what you wanted. The eagles came to me and they have become my family in a lot of ways and that is how we will continue to treat them. You call me your teacher, but has anything I taught you really sunk in, have you listened, or will you continue to ignore what's in front of you?"
"I had no one left that called me El… so why… why… I am your enemy…" Edlegard's eyes were starting to shine, but she wouldn't allow herself to cry.
Byleth opened the cell and stepped inside to hug Edlegard to her. "Let those emotions free El. You've bottled them up for too long. Slither is gone now, Fodlan should be able to be free and once Linhardt finished his research that place will be scorched to the ground. The church can become something good for those who need it and ignore by those who don't. You don't have to be the shell you've created. You can just be El and help us make sure that no one has to go through what you did. There is a place in this world for you if you quit fighting against us. You still have people that care about you, people that don't want to see you dead."
Edlegard clutched her clothes She wanted to find the anger, the resentment that had cloaked her for so long.
Then Dorthea came in with a plate and a wide smile for her. "And I have cake for you Edlegard. You always complained that you never got the time to have any sweets and just idle for a while. Let yourself relax and enjoy being alive."
Edlegard pushed herself away from them. "How do you not hate me?" Her voice was loud, but it cracked, her tears starting to come down. Her composure was breaking and she hated it.
"You have to learn to forgive yourself El and find a reason to live for." Dimitri said from the door.
He wouldn't look at her, and he was trying to keep his own dark thoughts out of his head. He recognized the defenses she had raised. Byleth had been right, two opposite sides of the same coin. They would always be at odds, but he wanted to forgive. Even if she didn't accept him back it was enough to know that in the end he had at least tried to help her.
Byleth stepped back to Dimitri. "You can make requests for the food and drink if you like. We'll make sure an eagle is down here with you at all times. Without the second crest, your body should start healing itself, like your hair. Your roots are turning brown. I assume after a while you'll look like you were meant to."
"Oh Edie, I brought a hair tie. I wanted to try something I think always would have looked cute on you if I can. Tea and sweets and some girl time fun!" Dorthea giggled. "Of course I can leave you alone if that is truly what you want." Her tone deepened with some regret as she put the cake on the shelf that was built into the wall.
Edelgard wasn't sure what to make of all of this. Why were they being kind and Dorthea… she had always liked the songstress. How many times had she longed for what she described only to think of some excuse that she couldn't possibly do so? Too many things in the way, Hubert always keeping her on the correct path, and just the fact that she couldn't do that while the world was still not as she saw it. For now she'd buy her time until she could escape.
"I'd enjoy that Dorthea. It's been too long since I've indulged myself," Edelgard said.
"I'll stay down here with Dorthea since I'm sure that you both have work to do. Thank you both for working as hard as you do," Ferdinand said.
Byleth smiled at him. "That would help us a great deal. Perhaps you could discuss some things over with Hubert and Edlegard about the Empire and who would be best to run what. That report you had for us, would tomorrow at noon over tea work for you?"
Ferdinand nodded. "Yes, I'll meet you both there."
Dimitri and Byleth left the hall. Byleth leaned into him. She could tell that there was still a lot on his mind. She just offered her comfort in silence, knowing he'd talk to her when he was ready. She still wondered if this was the right thing to do to Edlegard. There was no telling if she was even capable of change. They had to keep Hubert locked up because they know his loyalty to her was worse than Dudue's was to Dimitri. As long as they gave no moves to harm Hubert should hopefully not cause a fuss.
When Byleth heard the bells she groaned. "I need to go Dimitri. I'll be at the library with Seteth."
He nodded. "More training I take it?"
"Yes, I'm thinking as my payback I might name him archbishop after everything is said and done and I step down. I'm not sure why he needs to teach me anything," Byleth said.
"I imagine it will be the same when I head back to Fhirdiad. It is going to be a rough year isn't it?" Dimitri said.
Byleth stopped in front of him and laid her hand over where the mark was on his chest. "Yes, but there will be plenty of time to make up for it. For now we fulfill our obligations and then we can get some well-needed rest. Guren will be happy to have one of us back at the castle, if he hasn't gotten too used to Rodrigue that is." She thought a moment and then a smile came to her lips.
"And what has put you in such a mood?" He asked.
She brought her gaze up to his. "Meet me in the goddess tower the night before your coronation. I know you have to start traveling back to Fhirdiad right after and you will have many people vying for your attention that you will need to talk with. I at least want to have that time with you."
"I will make sure I'm there," he said.
She leaned up to kiss him and he came down to reach hers before she ran off.
Byleth was squirming in her seat as Annette, Mercedes, and Dorthea were prepping her for her coronation. Seteth would be running the ceremony. She sighed for the umpteenth time today. She really didn't want to do this, but it was necassary. She at least knew that she'd only have the position for a year or two while they reformed it to benefit this new vision of Fodlan they shared. They had renamed it the Foldan Kingdom. The church would only be a minor power, but still strong enough to support the people and their cause.
The past week had been a madhouse. Having all three territories to watch over and the politics of everything. It was endless mounds of paperwork and decisions. When she and Dimitri came to bed they both would normally curl up in each other and sleep or talk if the day's events wouldn't leave their heads. When they were intimate they would usually take their time with each other. Leave the thoughts of work behind and lose themselves in the other's touch.
He had tried asking her more about the bonding, but she would just tell him not now. She saw the hurt in his gaze, but she had a plan and it would make it all the more satisfying. He had stopped asking, but she noticed how his demeanor had changed slightly. She didn't like the feeling, but it would be worth it in the end. Hopefully, he would understand. They wouldn't be able to have their wedding until everything calmed down, so she wanted to make that special for them.
She was dressed in a dress similar to the one Rhea wore, however, she had gone for one that had slits up the sides that she wore with white versions of her usual boots. It was off the shoulder sleeves that draped down along her arms. Mercedes had stitched her a new cape like the one Rhea wore with her father's symbol stitched in white among the blue. It must have taken Merci a while to make and she couldn't thank her enough for such a gift. She wouldn't be wearing that headpiece until the ceremony when Seteth placed it on her head. She had found the crown from the enlightened one outfit change and she planned on wearing that after today. There was no way they were going to make her wear that clunky thing after all the pleasantries were done. Seteth would need to compromise or he would be putting it on himself today.
Perhaps she was being too hard on Seteth. He was only doing what he thought was right. When they had finally calmed Rhea down he was the one that helped her realize that she didn't have to be angry with them. They had found someone to love, and there should be plenty of great grandchildren for Rhea to love if she could behave. Sothis's power would ensure that nothing happened to Byleth. She had apologized profusely, unaware of even what she had said before she transformed again. Sothis had come forward to fuss at her a bit, but because of Rhea's decline in health Sothis was not as hard as she could be.
Rhea would be here today before she and Catherine went to Zanado. Byleth didn't understand why she'd want to stay there after what happened, but she supposed it was the only home besides the monastery that she had known. Byleth hoped that without the stress of having to run everything and search for an enemy around every corner Rhea would be able to calm down and live for herself.
"There you go. We decided simple was the way to go for this, especially since you'll be having to put that hairpiece on, but Byleth do you think perhaps we could put your hair up for the wedding?" Dorthea asked.
Byleth smiled. "Actually there's something Dimitri gave to me, it's a jewelry piece on a long chain that you can attach to a circlet. I'd like to wear that with the veil. I think he'd appreciate it and I think it would work well with that hairstyle."
Mercedes smiled. "Yes, it sounds lovely."
Annette giggled. "I wish it was happening sooner, but you both had a point about at least waiting till the reconstructions are done."
There was a knock on the door and Ingrid stepped in. "They're ready for you."
Byleth nodded. "Let's get this over with."
Dimitri was on the side of the massive group that had gathered for her coronation as Archbishop. He knew she wasn't thrilled about the position, but she was willing to do it temporarily to help the people and it only made his heart soar all the more for her. Sylvain and Felix came to where he was, the view able to put them within her sight as Seteth would place the headpiece on her. Ingrid had gone to fetch her and the ceremony should be starting soon. It still made him slightly uncomfortable to be with this many people. All of the murmuring and whispers brought up memories he didn't want. Then they all went silent as the girls entered and took their place across from them. Then Byleth entered the room and it was as if everything else faded away.
He wanted to chuckle at her attire. She and Rhea could not be more different in personality and it showed in how she moved. She was always fond of her boots and he was happy to see that she wasn't going to let them push her into the directions she didn't want to go. She was probably not going to be happy about all of the layers she would require in the winters in Fhirdaid, but the moment spring came he knew that she'd probably go to her usual. The girls had curled her hair into soft waves and it framed her face beautifully. Seteth began to have her take her oaths and Dimitri found himself too distracted by devouring every curve that the dress revealed. His crest was hidden mostly by the cloak. He wanted to complete it, and she had been the one to make the offer so why wouldn't she finish what they started. It wasn't like her to hesitate.
Her words brought him out of his thoughts. "I promise to speak the truths that the Goddess has asked me to reveal and to protect those who have come to seek guidance. In the name of Sothis I will fulfill my role to the best of my ability."
Seteth placed the headpiece on her and she turned to the crowd. It wasn't long before she was surrounded by people who wanted to congratulate or ask her questions. When she would catch his eyes she offered him up a small smile before giving her attention back to whoever it was in front of her. When Rhea approached her he felt apprehension for Byleth. Rhea had taken a hand to run it over where his crest was and they talked for a while before Rhea gave her another lily to weave into her hair.
Then Rhea made his way over to him and gestured for him to follow her. Dimitri nodded and made sure that Byleth saw him before he left. She nodded and he followed Rhea.
Rhea still looked unwell physically, but she was holding it together. "I want to apologize to you. I don't know if it was my true feelings or what they were doing to me to make me lose control, but I had attacked you and that was unbecoming of me, to say the least. You have to understand that to me she is the goddess and the thought of anyone sullying her just makes my skin crawl."
"I assure you when Sothis has been out, there have not been any carnal acts. Even before Sothis had come out from her more I had asked the question of if I was worthy of just Byleth. I do love her Rhea. I understand she is one of the last family you have, but that does not give you the right to bend her to your image and will. As long as you don't try to harm her I have no quarrel with you. I know the darkness that controls your mind after witnessing something as horrible as you had to go through." Dimitri said.
Rhea's gaze met his. "And what of your own darkness?"
"I have already made my choices to atone, and with her light to guide me, I doubt it will rips its claws so deep into me again. I will keep it as a warning, but I won't let it consume me anymore," he said.
Rhea nodded. "She asked about the bond. It seems that you haven't completed it yet and she does have a valid concern for worry. She is correct that any child you have afterward could possibly be mortal. If either of you dies on the battlefield, the bond will take the other because it seeks to get you both reborn quickly. I don't know because of her blood and power if she will live a normal human life or centuries. There are many unknowns. The bond was something a lot of my people felt like they didn't need to use. It was too risky and feelings too fickle."
Dimitri nodded. "I will keep all of that in mind."
Rhea bowed to him. "I am feeling rather faint. I am going to retire for the day. Please be mindful of the decision you make. It affects both of your futures."
When Rhea left Dimitri stayed there a moment. He wanted to talk with Byleth about this, but she had been avoiding the subject. He hadn't thought the consequences could be that bad, but she had apparently been thinking and worrying over it a bit. With all of the nights, they stayed awake together to talk why hadn't she brought up her worries with him?
Sylvain came walking up to him. "I figured you would have already returned to the group when Her Scaliness left."
"Just lost in thought, apologies Sylvain," Dimitri replied.
Sylvain chucked and put his arm around Dimitri. "Did she give you the scary she's my family and I won't tolerate some crap?"
Dimitri shook his head. "No, it's about what happened to us on Gronder. We have yet to complete the bond, and there are variables in play that Byleth hasn't talked to me about yet."
Sylvain made a sympathetic noise. "Ah, so that's what's going on between you two. Here I thought it was just stress from work. From what I heard Sothis say these marks will let you find each other in a next life or something. What's so bad about completing that?"
"That part has been done and will happen whether we complete it or not. Sylvain she's tied to a goddess, there's no telling how long her life will be. I want to be able to stay at her side," Dimitri said.
All the mirth was gone from Sylvain's face as he processed that. "How the hell did none of us catch up on that? She hasn't aged a day in all those years. She looks exactly the same. So what this bond would tie your life to hers wouldn't it? You two would outlive us all."
Dimitri nodded. "There is that possibility. We suspect it, but until more time passes we won't know for sure. Rhea just said one worry Byleth has is for our children, that they might not be able to have the same benefits. There's one other thing Rhea just told me, if either of us is killed the bond will take the other."
All Sylvain could do was stare at Dimitri a moment before he wrapped his arms around Dimitri in a friendly hug. "You guys just can't catch a break can you? Are things always this complicated? The first hurdle was the whole commoner and royalty bit, now mortal and goddess. Then everything that just happened. You both deserve a happy life.'
He let Dimitri go but didn't step back. 'How are you going to get out of the spotlight afterward? If she was marrying one of us we could easily just run away and become traveling wanderers but you, I know your obligations and you wouldn't just abandon the kingdom. As for the kids and friends I really hope at least your kids will inherit through her blood or something. Friends will come and go, but don't let us go haunting you ok. I can't answer for everyone, but I certainly wish for an extremely long and happy life for both of you."
"We'll deal with it as it arrives, for now, I'm not sure yet. It has bothered me that she hasn't discussed it with me yet," Dimitri said.
Sylvain waved him off on that one. "You know how she is with her plans. She'll research it to death to make sure she has all the options available to her before she makes a decision. She probably didn't want to broach it yet because she doesn't have the answers she wants before the subject comes up. She loves you, Dimitri, don't doubt that. When she's ready she'll come to you about it."
Dimitri gave him a skeptical look. "How do you understand them so well, yet you still don't have anyone for yourself?"
Sylvain shrugged. "Just haven't found one I'd like enough to keep I guess."
"You've been spending more time with Ingrid, how has that been going?" Dimitri asked.
Sylvain rubbed the back of his head. "That's kinda complicated. I'm not averse to the idea, but you know the way she's always been hounding after my behavior. I know it would make our families finally leave us alone, but I am sick of feeling like a trophy. On top of that it's Ingrid, I have to approach that carefully or I'll end up beaten to death before she realizes I'm serious."
"What is taking you two so long? Most everyone's already left for the banquet." Felix said, coming into the space.
Sylvain just smiled and wrapped an arm around Felix's shoulders. "Nothing much, just complexities of relationships. Speaking of, have you approached Annette yet?"
Felix glared at him. "As if I'd take advice from you about that. The boar should have more sense, but I guess I shouldn't expect any less."
"You and me could always just keep each other company if the girls don't work out." Sylvain teased.
Felix glared and got out of his grip. "Get off me you animal."
Sylvain grinned. "Awe you call Dimitri a boar, and yet I don't get a designation? It's so cute that you have a pet name for Dimitri, but where's mine?"
It was rare to see Felix's face color. Dimitri smiled at their banter, but if the banquet was already getting started it would be rude of them to make the guests wait. He was expected to sit next to her before any of the food was served. He put his arms out and ushered them both towards the entrance. Felix got the hint and moved before giving a retort to Sylvain, stepping fast to get away from them both before he stopped and turned around.
"Say Dimitri, does Byleth still call him Tomcat?" Felix asked.
"Sothis does, but I don't know if I've heard Byleth use it for a while," Dimitri answered.
Sylvain huffed before he chased after Felix. "That's no fair! It's gotta be something you come up with!"
Dimitri chuckled and shook his head before heading out of the cathedral to the dinning hall after them. His mind was still whirling, but his concerns would have to wait. He was thankful that at least the fighting seemed done. Sylvain had been right, Byleth did not like approaching any argument without being prepared for it. She could come up with arguments and solutions rather quickly, but it didn't match her fire when she had all the answers tucked away for any potential derailing her opponent might have.
When they entered the dinning hall the rest of the group waved Sylvain and Felix over and Sylvain made sure to grab the seat so the only one left was the one next to Annette. Felix tried to look peeved, but Annette was humming something and that caught Felix's attention. Byleth was still standing and talking with another noble. When Dimitri came beside her the noble gave them both a polite nod before retreating to a seat. Dimitri held the chair out for her before taking his own.
When the food was brought out Dimitri had to stare at it a moment. He recognized it, but why would this be served now? Then he started hearing appreciative murmurs all around the room. He bit into it and enjoyed the flavor that burst in his mouth. It was Dedue's cooking, but he had toned down on the spicy notes to make it more savory than spicy. Byleth gave him a sly grin when one of the nobles started gushing over the flavor.
"Dedue, Ashe, would you two please come greet the guests? There are a few who want to give their complements to the chefs," she said.
Ashe came out first and then Dedue behind him. The group got quiet their murmurs of excitement turning into questioning tones.
"I'd like to present two of our best chefs here at Garrag Mach. The recipies belong to Dedue, who had been cooking something for himself that reminded him of his homeland. He permitted me to taste it and I knew it had to be shared. As you've probably heard the Argathans were the ones responsible for the atrocities, not Duscar."
"But Your Grace these heathens don't believe in the Goddess, how can you stand by and not acknowledge that?" One of the people asked.
Byleth nodded. "While that is true, I will not force my own belief onto others. I will not be a self-righteous ruler like Rhea was. I know the Goddess's voice and she never intended such a rift to be made. Does the origin of the food make it taste any less sublime? We have almost lost the opportunity to taste it because of the actions of violence. Is it really our intention to eradicate the good in things just because we don't agree?"
Dimitri had to keep the grin from forming on his face. "Thank you Dedue. It tastes wonderful."
Dedue bowed. "I am more than happy to make it for you again Your Highness."
There were a few more that had continued to munch after Dimitri spoke.
"Would you be willing to share the recipes or open a restaurant at some point? I've never tasted such a wonderous flavor before," one of them asked after finishing their plate.
"Oh, yes that would be wonderful," another said, finishing off their plate as well.
Dedue bowed. "I will consider such an establishment. Thank you for your compliments."
Mercedes pondered on that. "Perhaps an inn of sorts. I'd be happy to run it with you Dedue."
Ashe nodded. "You know that sounds quite fun. I'd be happy to lend a hand when I could."
Annette swooned. "Oh Dedue and Ashe's food and Merci's sweets, it sounds like a dream."
"What are these sweets you're talking about?" someone asked.
Merci stood up. "Oh, well you're in luck. Lysithea and I had made some earlier together. If you aren't fond of sweets I'd highly suggest her cakes."
Felix perked up at hearing that. "She made some of hers too?"
Annette looked a little annoyed. "Why will you eat hers but not Merci's"
Felix looked at her. "I told you I don't like sweet things. I'm eager to eat cake isn't that enough?"
Lysithea brought Felix one to him. "Told you I'd find you something that you'd enjoy. I can teach you the recipe Annette so you can make it for him. Hmm we could call it the Fraldarius Special."
Byleth tilted her head. "May we try it Lysithea? I don't think I've had the pleasure."
Lysithea nodded and brought over a slice for them. Byleth took a bite then nudged the plate over to Dimitri.
"I see why he likes it. The texture is really nice and fluffy so you get all of the benefits of cake, but the taste isn't overly sweet. I think this would go perfect with some sweet teas so you don't get overpowered by the taste. Just like Merci's sweets are a compliment to the stronger flavored teas." Byleth said.
When she noticed Dimitri still hadn't made a move for it she cut another piece with the fork and held it out to him. "Try it Your Highness."
It was then he noticed that she was wearing the ring without gauntlet or gloves. They hadn't officially announced their engagement yet. It was going to wait until after his coronation. His was hidden underneath the gloves he wore. His face went a little red as he noticed how many people were staring at them, waiting for him to give his evaluation of it. He wasn't sure of the ettiqute here, of whether it would be alright for her to feed it to him or if he would take the fork itself away. As soon as the thought crossed his mind he didn't care. This was something she had tried to offer in the past to try to get him to taste different objects. Back then he had only indulged because he had seen how disappointed she was the first time, only to see her light up when he agreed. He would hate for her to make that disappointed face in front of all of these people.
She was spot on about the texture being the most remarkable thing about it. He didn't have many things to compare the flavor too, but he quite enjoyed it as well. The moment he said it aloud the rest of the room started to dig into theirs. Dimitri was enjoying the banters around the tables. A few of them had asked for Dedue specifically and were asking him questions without reservations. Under the table Byleth had put her hand on his thigh. That same sly grin had returned to her face as she watched the scene in front of her.
He leaned over to whisper in her ear. "So how many more secrets are you hiding for today?"
She gave him a side glance. "I think they've all been taken care of. A lot of the ideas came last minute so I apologize for not letting you in on it. One thought for you, aren't wedding cakes usually multi-tiered? What would you say to Merci and Lysynthia working together to make ours? Make it so the guests could enjoy both kinds."
He thought on it a moment. "Wouldn't that be too much to ask of them? It's a daunting task. It will have to be able to feed a lot of guests."
Byleth nodded. "They can always refuse if they wish, but I think to at least ask them would be nice. I wouldn't want to hurt their feeling by not offering it at least."
The rest of the conversations around the tables were mostly more questions from the guests and Byleth played her cards beautifully. Anything that might be deemed too radical she had given something small, but said she would reflect on for any further deliberation. Then someone had asked about the ring on her hand.
Byleth nodded. "I have been asked, yes. With the turmoil that our country is still going through, we have decided to postpone the official announcement. Once things have calmed down we will make it known."
"As the Archbishop is that proper? Lady Rhea had never taken a partner that we know of."
Seteth rose. "Lady Rhea had made her choice after losing someone important to her at a young age. When I had asked her about it she had told me that her heart always belonged to him and as such their daughter was hidden among our ranks as well. There is nothing in the teachings that prevent anyone from loving who they choose. As Lady Rhea's grandchild Byleth is allowed the same curtesy. Love does not care about titles."
The room exploded in whispers after that. Based on the tilt of her head Dimitri thought that Seteth had surprised her with that one. She may not be expressive in her face sometimes, but she did have her tells.
"Seteth, did Rhea say we could divulge that information? I thought she wished to keep my mother secret." Byleth asked.
Seteth nodded. "While she was Archbishop she thought it might be improper, which is why she hid it. When the father died she felt it best to keep her as just another nun here at the monastery. I am sure a few of you remember Sitri, the frail girl that rarely went out of Lady Rhea's sight. Jeralt Eisner fell in love with her and together they had the girl that sits before you. Lady Sitri lost her life that day and the goddess gifted Byleth life instead. Besides her blood-ties with Rhea that was part of Rhea's choice for choosing Byleth. The goddess has granted her many gifts and that is why we have approved her for the role. Now that Rhea has stepped down, she only wishes for the truth to be known."
One voice rose louder than the others. "You knew about all this and yet stood by Rhea?"
Seteth nodded. "I was not appointed the role at her side until after the fact. I only found out about it later on and it did not cloud my judgment. Even now after seeing what Byleth has accomplished I still stand by Rhea's decision. I tell you now because I know that the change of power always has uncertainty and because Lady Rhea may not have much time left. I wish to alleviate one point of the guilt that is weighing on her heart. I also feel that it has been cruel to not allow Lady Byleth to claim the other half of her parentage, so now she can do so without regrets."
The whispers rose again. "Do you know who the father was?" Someone asked.
Seteth shook his head. "That would perhaps be a secret Lady Rhea takes to her grave."
Byleth took her cup and swirled the contents with tilting movements of her hand. "While I do appreciate the reasoning Seteth my parentage shouldn't matter as much. When Sothis spoke to me she had no idea who I was nor bloodline. That is where her benevolence lies. As you said love knows no titles. That is the stance we need to replicate. She only intended the crest bearers and the weapons to be protectors."
Someone scoffed. "Then what is the goddess's stance on the crest bearers and nobility?"
Byleth had to bite back a retort as Sothis came into her mind asking if she could talk to them. Byleth did not think it was a good idea. If they found out that she housed the goddess inside her she could see someone radical about the faith as Rhea had been and attack Dimitri for just the crime of touching her. Sothis only nodded and gave Byleth the words she wanted.
"Sothis had chosen Dimitri as her champion not because he was royalty, but because of his heart and ideals. Because of his strength, he was gifted at birth, he has the power to protect those that need to rely on it. The point I am trying to make is that even if Dimitri wasn't in the position he was he would still fight to end the war because that is the type of person that he is. That is what she saw in him. Those nobles who abuse their power she only sees with disdain. The commoners depend on the nobility to protect them and they provide out of loyalty. That is how the system should work, not this convoluted system where it only matters your birth and not the soul behind it."
Sylvain smiled at her. "I knew there was a reason I liked Sothis."
Byleth rolled her eyes. "She still calls you Tomcat Sylvain, have you been behaving?"
Sylvain sputtered. "Oh come on! What do I have to do to be rid of that nickname?"
Ingrid pondered on that a moment. "You know I've barely seen you flirt with anyone since we captured Fhirdiad."
Sylvain pointed to Ingrid. "See I've been good. I have a witness and you know she doesn't lie."
Byleth chuckled and then straightened her face before she rose. "If the rest of you have questions I will be in the Cathedral. Please talk to Seteth and any answer he can not provide I will attempt too. We will be crowning His Highness one week from today. Thank you again Dedue, Ashe, Mercedes, and Lysithea for the wonderful meal. Thank you all for your words of congratulations."
Seteth rose and blocked the door after she exited. Dimitri rose and took the other door, nodding to Felix as he went to guard Byleth. Not that she needed protection, but Felix would deter any anyone from being too annoying. There were plenty of questions and by the end of it he felt drained and just wanting to escape from being around people. When everyone finally left Mercedes brought him two slices of her cakes.
"I think you two could use a treat," she said.
He took the plate in hand. "Thank you Mercedes. Byleth was mentioning during the dinner earlier that we should aks if you might be interested in helping with the wedding cake."
Mercedes smiled. "While I am honored I've never done something to that scale before. Plus I think I'll have more fun helping Byleth get ready. I can't let Dorthea and Annette steal all of that glory for themselves."
Dimitri chuckled. "I'll let her know then. She wanted to make sure that you knew that we thought of you first."
Mercedes gave him a smile. "Thank you. Have a good night."
When Dimitri reached the Cathedral she still had several people pestering her. The one thing he noticed was that none of them had been at the party. A few of the orphans and some of the clerical staff had her attention right now. She even had one of the children in her lap as they continued to talk. He found himself transfixed at the sight. He looked down at the plate he had and quickly turned back to find that Mercedes was still at the hall.
"Do you by chance have more than this? The children have surrounded Byleth and I would hate to show up with this and not have enough for them," he explained.
Mercedes chuckled. "That is a wonderful idea. Yes, could you carry that platter for me? I'll grab some plates."
Dimitri obliged and Mercedes followed him back to the cathedral. He was happy to see that they were all still there and talking with the same excitement as before.
The clerical staff noticed them as they approached. "Come we have taken enough of Her Grace's time."
Dimitri shook his head. "That is not neccasary. We brought a treat from the banquet and I think the children would enjoy trying some of Mercedes' cake."
One of the children ran up to him. "We get cake?"
The rest of the kids swarmed him and he heard Byleth chuckle. "He may drop it if you don't mind your manners. There should be enough for everyone so please don't shove."
Dimitri made his way over to Byleth's side as she and Mercedes distributed the plates. There had been enough for the clergy members and still slices for him and Byleth to have. Mercedes smiled as they all came to tell her how good it was. She asked if there were any more children that weren't here that would like a slice from the dining hall. One of the older boys offered to show her where the others hung out to bring her and help her distribute more. While two others offered to take all of the plates back.
The child from before had climbed back up into Byleth's lap and Dimitri had gained two on his lap as well as they asked him to tell them some stories. It was a completely new feeling to him. He remembered the monastery child he had given comfort to back in the other timeline. That had been different when everyone was still somewhat scared of him. All of these kids had their family taken by war or sickness. He had heard the nickname they had given him, the savior king. He had not been worthy of such a title, but he saw it in the people's eyes when they caught sight of him. These children looked upon him like he was a knight out of a fable that Ashe would get dreamy-eyed over. Byleth lifted up the child and settled down beside him before the child readjusted.
"A story hmm…" Byleth mused.
The two on his lap turned their attention to her as she started to spin a tale that even had Dimitri captivated. It was something he had never heard before that stared animals as the characters. It wasn't until further in that she mentioned a ball and the goddess tower that he realized that she was talking about their academy days. He should have known when she had mentioned lions and deer.
"So the clever deer asked the dragon for a dance because she looked lonely, but also to annoy the great lion. So one dance led to another and soon the dragon was exhausted. She left to get some air and the breeze felt so nice. She looked up at the Goddess Tower the highest place within the monestary and wanted to feel as much of the breeze as she could so she made her way up the tower. She hadn't expected to see the lion there, but he must have had the same idea to enjoy the peace and breeze at the tower. She settled there under the moonlight and they talked about the legend of the tower and how wishes made there on that night were supposed to come true."
"I've heard of that legend! So what did they wish for?" The girl leaned in.
All three of them were raptured by Byleth's voice. The clergy sitting on the pews and talking among themselves and pointing to the group with smiles on their faces. He wondered what this looked like to an outsider. He was surprised to see Felix still there and listening. Dimitri blushed, wondering where she was going to take this. He still felt ill about that joke and would not like it repeated.
"Well the lion had not expected anyone to come into the tower and was quite flustered with what to say, but he did make an excellent wish for a world where no one would be taken from another unjustly. The dragon was endeared towards the lion. She had always known that the lion had a kind heart and wished for the same. Then the lion did something unexpected and said perhaps a better wish would be to stay side by side forever. The dragon had no idea what to say in return, but in the end, she knew she wanted to stay by the lion's side so she spread her wings and wished for the same, letting the dawn rise on a world where their promise could be kept. Together they would protect everyone that lived within their territory and try to make sure both wishes came true to the best of their abilities."
All three of them started talking at once she stopped. "There must be more!" "Yes, there must!" Please, don't stop!"
Byleth chuckled. "There are plenty of adventures to tell, but I am weary. It has been a long day, but you have something new to talk about with the other children."
They nodded. "Your Grace, will you come visit with us again? I know we aren't that important, but this was really nice."
"His Highness and I are busy most of the time, but I think there will be times we can spare for a story or a treat. Do not think of yourselves as unimportant, you can find your role in this world as soon as you find what you enjoy doing."
"His High…" The boy looked up at Dimitri before turning red and gulping. "The future king brought us cake?"
Dimitri smiled down at him. "Yes. Everyone deserves something nice every now and then. I'm happy that we had some to spare. The rest of the children have already left. Why don't you go tell them her story since they didn't get to hear it themselves?"
The boy was tentative but ended up throwing his arms around Dimitri to hug his neck. "Thank you, your highness. It… it means a lot. I'm glad they were right about you. Thank you for fighting for us."
Dimitri was at a loss from the warmth that poured from the actions and words. He saw Byleth smile beside them as the child on her lap wrapped her in a hug of thanks as well. The girl stood up from where she had been resting on his leg red-faced. She bowed akwardly and thanked them both before they went to the clergy. They were all chatting pleasantly on their way out. Dimitri stood, his legs were starting to go a little numb so he was thankful to be able to move, but he didn't think that he'd trade that experience just now for anything. He held out his hand for Byleth.
She tried to stand but he saw the aggravation she had at her legs as she sighed. "Sorry, they went to sleep on me."
Dimitri chuckled before he leaned down to pick her up.
Felix scoffed and rolled his eyes before he left them there together. As he exited he saw something under the pews and paused. "Bernedetta what are you doing here?"
Bernedetta squeaked and banged her head on the pew as she crawled out from underneath. "I'm hiding from Caspar. There are times when getting me out was nice, but he's driving me crazy and won't leave me alone."
"Then tell him to leave you be. Hey while I have you here can you show me that move again?" Felix asked.
Bernedetta huffed. "I am not falling for your trap!"
Felix sighed. "Well your satchel is in my room if you ever feel like you ever feel like showing me. Get Lindhart to pal around with Caspar. He'll leave you alone if he has someone else to bother."
Bernedetta watched him leave. When Dimitri approached her she seemed like she was about to bolt. Then she saw Byleth and started to fidget. "Um Professor, I was wondering. I made something for Hubert for taking care of me while I was still in the Empire. I was ...I wanted to give it to him, but I don't want to go alone. Can you come with me later?"
Byleth nodded. "Sure. Oh and Bernedetta there might be cake still left in the dining hall."
Bernedetta's eyes went wide. "Cake!...wait is this a trap?"
Dimitri shook his head. He would never understand this girl. "No we had a banquet today and there was cake leftover. I'm not sure if there is any left after the children got to it, but you won't know unless you go see for yourself."
Bernedetta nodded. "See you later!"
As soon as she was past the door Caspar came from the side and greeted her. Bernedetta shrieked and the speed she went to the other side of the bridge surprised them all.
Caspar rubbed the back of his head. "Huh, all I did was say hello."
Byleth chuckled and shook her head. "Come my lion, lets get to our room there are some things I wish to discuss with you that I don't want an audience for."
Dimitri nodded. "There are many things I wish to say as well."
She took the headpiece off of her head and shook out her hair before she breathed a sigh of relief. "Do you think they'd object if I let my hand slip and let this thing fall down into the ravine below?"
Dimitri tried not to laugh too loudly at that. "Yes I think they would."
"Pity," she replied.
He nuzzled his face into her hair. They had scented it with something and it wasn't her usual lavender. He knew it but couldn't put his finger on it.
She smiled and stroked his cheek. "Chamomille. The girls thought I could use a relaxing scent. With how many times I've had it with you they were right. The scent does wonders for my patience."
He smiled at that, of course. "You definitely need it for a day like today. I do apologize that you have to take the position."
She huffed. "In the end it will help our goals be achieved that much faster. We can't fix a broken system as outsiders. Who knows, especially if there are sweet moments like what we did in there… perhaps it might not be as horrible as I imagine."
"Yes, it was quite an endearing sight," he said.
She curved her lips into a sly smile before leaning herself up to whisper in his ear. "And imagine how much more enduring it would be if the child had been ours. We accomplished one step, Dimitri. Together we can accomplish so much more as time moves on."
Her bubbling laughter over his blush could be heard from throughout the monastery and despite his embarrassment he wouldn't have it any other way.
Notes: putting this here since a few have asked- i've still got 5-7 chapters more planned out so there is still a bit more to come, but we are starting to get close to the final wrap up 3 more smut fluff and pining to come XD