[21st day of the Great Tree Moon, Imperial Year 1180]
Morning arrived. There were no nightmares to speak of, this time. But, Haruki wouldn't actually call that a good night's rest. In fact, he would much rather keep sleeping, but given that he had much to do, it was better to start the day now.
Lacing his boot and wrapping his scarf around his neck, he walked toward the room's exit, favoring his right foot.
"Do you have everything?"
"Yeah."
"Are you suuure?"
"Yes, Himari."
"Poooositive?"
"..."
"Take the hint, dummy!"
With a huff, Haruki looked over his shoulder to see Himari grumpingly tapping her foot while holding his crutches.
"Did you forget about a certain something?"
"I don't need them."
"Oh, yes you do!" she stomped toward him, shoving the crutches right at him. "You may feel fine, but an injury is still an injury! One little misstep, and you'll keep going back to square one!"
It was true he felt fine. The minor injuries were practically fully healed, and it was only a matter of time before his ribs were, too. Plus, he was able to apply some pressure onto his foot again, which was why he thought he could move away from those hindering crutches. Although, it would be a pain to carelessly reinjure himself.
Still...
Grabbing his crutches, Haruki immediately threw one away. Seeing the crutch discarded like that, Himari glared back at Haruki, fully knowing what he was doing.
"You must really love to get on my nerves, don't you?"
The boy simply shrugged her off and, with one crutch in hand, turned toward the door.
"Fine! Have it your way. Oh, and you better not forget what we went over yesterday!"
"I know," he replied to her mentally, knowing that as soon as they step foot outside, there's no telling who'd overhear. That last thing he needed was the pain of trying to explain why he was talking to himself.
"One last thing."
"What, dammit?"
As Haruki sharply turned back around, Himari ripped something off from his head. It was a bandage, tainted red. He touched his forehead, feeling a lump at the center of it, now remembering the heated exchange they had last night.
"I do feel bad for headbutting you like that," Himari admitted, placing a new bandage on the wound. "Think of this as my way of apologizing for it, 'kay?"
"..."
"But I'm not apologizing for what I said. Nor am I taking it back. Clear on that?"
"...Crystal."
"...You really are a strange one."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Figure it out, dummy."
"..."
"Alright, let's get going!"
With a sigh from Haruki, the two walked out of the room and into the outside, simultaneously breathing deeply the cool morning air. Himari was the first to move a few steps ahead, letting the heat of the morning rays blanket her whole being. Her smile widened even more as she looked around.
"My, my! I wasn't able to appreciate the monastery yesterday. But seeing it now… Wow. It's so grand."
Catching up to Himari, Haruki observed the area before him. Noticeably, there was a large pond - a man-made pond, by the looks of it, given the water system implemented within it.
He could practically envision his old man fishing by the dock every morning. It was actually a miracle that he wasn't there already.
The architecture of the building just past the pond was a marvel to behold. It was the Entrance Hall, if he recalled someone mentioned. He was no expert in such things, but at a glance, even he knew that these walls had history.
"There's definitely more that we haven't seen yet! Look!" Himari, glittering eyes and all, pointed at another building surrounded by bushes to their right. There were more windows in this one, and he faintly caught a glimpse of green and flora inside.
"A greenhouse?"
"It is! Oh, you won't believe how much I want to smell the aroma of flowers! I hope they have sunflowers!"
"Sunflowers?"
"Yes! The ones that are beautiful and bright just like it's namesake… and just like yours truly!"
"I can see the resemblance clear as day..."
"You hush with your sarcasm and come on!" She tugged on his shirt. "The flowers are waiting!"
"That can wait, Himari."
"Awww! But whyyyy?!"
Haruki sighed at the girl's childish behavior and shook his shirt away from her grasp. "Honestly, did you forget already?"
Himari looked at him confusingly before widening her eyes as she came to realize. Once she did, she pouted.
"Fiiine! I guess there's more important things to do right now. But I do want to go there at some point!"
"Relax, they aren't going anywhere," he shook his head before looking forward, literally and figuratively. "It's about time I talk with Seteth."
"There isn't a need to rush, either, Haruki. After all, we can't function on an empty stomach."
"...?"
Gurgle Gurgle Gurgle
There was a strange sound, and it came directly from his stomach. All the while, he whole body began to feel weak.
"Did you seriously forget that you haven't eaten anything since Remire?"
"…"
"You did, didn't you?!"
"It just slipped my mind, alright?"
"For crying out loud," Himari rubbed her head, "I know you have a lot to think about, but that's no excuse to neglect your health!"
"Hmph, you're sounding like Alexia."
"Well, consider yourself fortunate to have someone like her around. Now enough mouthing and let's find something to eat."
Haruki would rather not waste time and try to get his meeting with Seteth over with. But… he supposed he couldn't ignore the basic need for food.
"Fine, we'll play it your way."
"Don't act like you're not looking forward to it."
"No idea what you're talking about."
"Haruki, your head is filled with thoughts of food the moment I mentioned it."
"..."
"And mind telling me why it's mostly about- OW!" Himari suddenly yelped in pain from having her foot trampled by Haruki's crutch. "You did that on purpose!"
"Come on, already. We don't have all day, so quit mouthing."
"Hey! Don't steal my line! Do you even know where to go?"
He looked directly at a smaller building connected to the Entrance Hall. A delicious aroma steadily flowed out of the open door and windows.
"I have a hunch."
After reaching the top of the stairs and walking through the doorway, Haruki found a dining hall. It was a spacious place with plenty of dining tables to his right and a food counter on his left.
There were people lining up by the counter, so he decided to do the same. As he made his way there, he could feel the curious glances, hear the quiet whispers, and sense the heightened emotions coming from the people already enjoying their meal.
Most of them were wearing uniforms that resembled the ones the three nobles had on. That could only mean they were students of the Officer's Academy, too. There were also a handful of others who dawned knightly armor or religious garbs, signifying their place in Garreg Mach.
It made Haruki stick out like a sore thumb with his casual attire that consisted of just a plain gray shirt and black trousers. But he knew that that wasn't the reason most eyes were on him.
"I wonder if word about what happened got out already," Himari said.
"Maybe," Haruki glanced at a table of students. But as their eyes met, the students quickly looked away. For whatever reason, the girls in the group were gushing about the half-second exchange.
"Heh-Heh! It's either that or another, obvious reason."
"Tsk," with a click of the tongue, he looked away.
"Not one for attention, are you?"
"Don't care for it."
"Or maybe you're just socially anxious."
"...I'm not socially anxious."
"Whatever you say, Haruki. Whatever. You. Say."
As their meaningless conversation dragged on, the line steadily moved until they had finally reached the food display. The sight before them was an even greater spectacle than the sight of the Entrance Hall. In front of them, there was an assortment of breakfast dishes. Traditional eggs, omelets, sandwiches, and many others.
"Do you… Do you think we can have all of it?" a wide-eyed Himari asked.
"I highly doubt it," Haruki answered, with his own widened eye staring at the assortment of food. "But it's very tempting."
"Oh! Another new face in our Dining Hall!"
"Indeed it is, sister."
Two voices pulled him out of his little paradise. Glancing up toward the other side of the counter, he saw two women who looked to be in their mid-twenties. They looked practically identical with their similar faces, brown eyes, and short brown hair. The only difference was that one had her hair tied in a neat bun, while the other kept hers unkempt.
"Good morning! I have to ask before assuming anything, are you new to the monastery?" the one with her hair tied cheerfully asked.
Haruki only nodded.
"I see, so our assumptions are as accurate as ever," the one with unkempt hair said in a calmer manner compared to the other.
"Oh, it's so exciting to meet new people!"
"You're excitement is over-exaggerated, sister. It is nothing new. Although, it is intriguing to see three unique individuals in such a short while."
"Three? Could that mean…?" Himari tilted her head, with Haruki doing the same.
"Were the other two a burly old man and a guy and a blank stare?"
"Yes, actually!" the cheerful one answered. "Does that mean you know Sir Jeralt and Professor Byleth?"
"So they were here after all," Haruki thought. "Sir and Professor, huh?"
"Heh-heh! Their titles definitely need some getting used to."
"They're family, so yeah," he simply told them.
"Family?" The cheerful one put a finger on her chin pensively. "Oh, right! Professor Byleth did mention something about a younger brother."
"Then it must mean you're Haruki Eisner, are you not?" the calmer one asked.
"That I am," Haruki nodded again. Although, he wasn't thrilled about his name being shared out so readily.
"Oh come on. What harm would it do for someone here to know your name?"
"The less people who know it, the better."
"Pff! Good luck with that. Now that you're the center of attention, people will be begging to know who you are. I'm telling you, it's your social anxiety talking."
"...I'm not socially anxious."
"Yaay!" The energetic one squealed in delight. "I'm so happy to meet you! Sir Jeralt and Professor Byleth told us a bit about you. But, my. The good looks must run in the family. No wonder people keep ogling you."
"..." he didn't need to turn around, for he sensed the numerous eyes still on him.
"More importantly, they noted your skills in the culinary arts," the other added. "I am eager to see you work in the future."
"Hmmmm?" Himari gave Haruki a smug side-glance.
"It isn't anything special," the boy replied to the woman while glancing back at Himari, as if his words were meant for both of them.
"That remains to be seen," the woman replied optimistically but with a straight face. "However, sister, we seem to be forgetting something."
"Oh right! We haven't introduced ourselves. Where are our manners? My name's Lia."
"And you may call me Mia. If you have not noticed, Lia and I are twin sisters. But more importantly, we also lead Garreg Mach's Dining Hall."
"Uh-huh! Leave it to our team to give you the best grub to keep you going the whole day! Or as Mia brought up, you're more than welcome to make your own! Speaking of food, Mia?"
Lia turned to her sister who nodded then looked at Haruki.
"Your father also mentioned your palate. Thus, we are preparing a dish specifically for you. It is our way to show our appreciation."
"For what?" the boy asked.
"For saving the Academy's students, of course," Lia answered matter of factly. "So, of course we'd want to thank you for that!"
"Indeed," Mia curtsied, with Lia doing the same. And with perfect synchronization, the twin sisters said:
""On behalf of Garreg Mach Monastery, we thank you, Haruki Eisner, for protecting our precious students. Please accept this as a token of our gratitude.""
With that, one of the cooks arrived to deliver a freshly-made dish that made Himari's eyes widen more than before.
"Sunny Side up eggs, sautéed pheasant and veggies, and… a stack of pancakes! Haruki, we've hit the jackpot!"
"..."
"Haruki?"
However, as Himari looked at her companion, all she saw was the boy staring at the food blankly. There wasn't a hint of spark within his scarlet eye. It was simply… empty.
"Um… are you alright, Haruki?" Lia asked worryingly.
"Is the dish not to your liking?" Mia did the same.
"..."
Unable to hold back, Himari held onto Haruki's free hand, hoping that it could at least help ease his troubles, whatever they could be. His mind was truly a mystery to Himari. More often than not, she could clearly know what's on his mind. Yet there were times - like now - when she didn't have an inkling what he could be thinking; it was just too clouded.
Whatever it was, it was enough to make Himari worry about him again. Perhaps it was because they were connected, but she hated seeing him in such a state, and so she wanted to do what she could to get him back to normal, just like Sothis.
There was no way she would be a bystander… Not again.
Himari's mind was being put at ease as Haruki's inner turmoil was calming down significantly. She could even sense what he was thinking now, allowing her to understand why he was in such a state in the first place.
"You have gotta be kidding me."
But the reason only made her worries turn to complete flabbergastation.
"...Not enough sweets."
"YOU MADE ME WORRY FOR NOTHING?!"
Of all the things to put him in such a stupor, it was because of THAT?! Himari figured out about his unusual fixation, but she never fathomed it was to this extent. He already had a stack of pancakes, and yet that was not enough to sate him?
"There wasn't a reason to worry…"
"HOW COULDN'T I?! LOOK HOW DEPRESSED YOU GOT!"
"Shut it, Himari," Haruki mentally quieted his companion before grabbing his tray and turning his attention to the twins. "It looks good. I accept your kind gesture."
"Oh… uh… Great!" Lia chirped up. "I hope you love it. It's made with love and care!
"And made with quality ingredients and correct portions," Mia concluded for her sister.
"Unbelievable!"
Despite still being in a state of bewilderment, Himari couldn't help but feel some sense of relief knowing Haruki's little episode wasn't serious. Ridiculous but not serious.
All the while, Haruki hummed and took another whiff of his dish. The appealing aroma invaded his nostrils, making him realize just how famished he was. But as much as he wanted to savor his food, he did not want to waste any more time.
"That smell. Hmm… it's amazing! You got good taste."
Haruki jolted out of his paradise for a second time. But once he recovered, he stifled a groan because he immediately recognized that voice.
"Mornin'! Glad to see you're up and about again."
Claude.
One of the nobles that he saved. The more talkative one of the three.
"And good morning to you, Lia," Claude turned his attention to the twins. "The food looks delicious as ever."
"Oh stop it, you flatterer!"
"And Mia-"
"Hmph."
"Still mad, I see."
"I have no words for those who do not know the fundamentals of dish-washing. Begone with you, Master Reigan."
"I didn't think it went that horrible."
"You ended up breaking a few plates, Claude."
"Oh come on, Lia. Not you, too!"
While he found it baffling that Claude couldn't even do the simplest of tasks that even a noble can do, that wasn't what caught Haruki's attention. It was what Mia called him.
"Reigan?"
It sounded familiar, yet he couldn't put his finger on it.
"Okay, enough talking about my poor display in menial chores," Claude sheepishly chuckled. "Hey, Lia. I'll have what he has. Oh, and you can leave the pancakes out."
"I had a hunch you'd want your usual. We got it all ready for you, Claude!"
"You already know me all too well!" Claude grabbed his tray. "Thanks, Lia, erm… and Mia."
"You're so welcome!"
"Hmph."
"Right, then," Claude turned back to Haruki, "let's find a seat, yeah?"
Without missing a beat, the noble went towards the dining tables. He walked a few meters before he realized that Haruki wasn't following him.
"What's up?"
"What's up with you?" Haruki countered. "You expect me to eat with you?"
"You don't want to?"
"No."
"Ouch! Not an ounce of hesitation," Claude dramatically placed a hand on his chest. "You sure, though? Food always tastes better with others. And besides, I've been wanting to bend your ear ever since that night. What better moment to do that than a little breakfast date?"
"Don't call it a date."
It hadn't been two minutes, and Haruki was already getting annoyed by him. From the way he talked, to the way he smiled. Almost everything about him was insufferable.
Especially those eyes of his.
Those emerald eyes were undeniably calculating, as if he was trying to evaluate as much as he could at that very moment.
"Looks like you now got the attention of a weird one," Himari said, sensing Haruki's tension. "Unless you prefer to be stared down right through your being, you should probably do something about this."
Himari was right. This whole situation was too vexing to continue. The easiest choice was to just walk away and be done with it. But as soon as he took a single step, Claude spoke again.
"Hmm, maybe you need a better incentive, how about this? If you let me bend your ear a bit, you can bend mine."
"I doubt there's anything to gain listening to you say a single word," Haruki retorted, hinting that he wanted nothing to do with the noble.
"Hmm… you sure about that?"
Haruki immediately glared at Claude, but the noble didn't seem affected by the piercing eye and continued.
"Word is that you're going to be a student, too."
"...And what of it?"
"Then, you must have tons of questions about the Officer's Academy. What better person to answer them than a House Leader?"
"House Leader?"
"Peaked, your interest, I see. I'll give you a better breakdown once we chow down. You coming?" Claude continued to walk toward the dining tables, leaving Haruki to decide what he should do.
"Hmm, a student's perspective of the Officer's Academy," Himari mused. "It isn't a bad exchange if you think about it. We need to know how this place works. Plus a little something extra, you know?"
"...Guess so," Haruki sighed.
Thinking about it now, it did seem beneficial. While he will learn more about the place from Seteth, it wouldn't hurt to get information from other sources - a clearer picture at a different angle. Although, it wasn't thrilling to know that he was getting it from someone like Claude. Not to mention, he was more concerned about what the noble had in store in terms of "bending his ear."
What was more annoying to him was that he now sensed some kind of satisfaction coming from a certain someone.
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?"
"Whatever do you mean?" Himari feigned ignorance.
With another sigh, Haruki followed Claude.
The smell…
The taste…
Absolutely delectable!
The pheasant was cooked and seasoned beautifully, and it complemented well with the eggs. As for the pancakes, they were gone in less than a minute.
Whether it was because he was famished or for another reason, he just couldn't get enough.
"Mmmmm! This is so good!"
Himari voiced her pleasure inside his head. Before, she begged Haruki to give her a bite, seeing how he was gobbling down the food like his life depended on it. However, it was easier said than done.
It wouldn't be a big deal under normal circumstances. But neither the circumstances nor the girl were normal. After all, no one could see her.
From someone else's perspective, they'd just be seeing a floating fork. No doubt, that'd startle anyone who'd see it. If not that, then the food magically disappearing from the fork surely would.
Despite it being out of the question, Himari was strangely persistent. As she put it, "If I can't enjoy the delicacy of food in my physical form, I'll just enjoy it in another!"
After that, she vanished and returned to her place within Haruki. He initially wasn't sure what she was doing, but after another mouthful of his breakfast and a delighted squeal, it dawned on him.
They were one mind and body, so of course they also shared the five senses. Although, it only seemed to work when she was within Haruki and not in her physical form. It was different than when they shared their thoughts and feelings where it seemed to work regardless of where she was.
He wasn't sure why - another unknown - but right now, he was more focused on his meal; they both were
"If this is the kind of food this monastery offers, we'll be dining like royalty!"
"Geh!"
"BAH! You're seriously choking?! Water! Drink water, you dummy!"
Haruki put down his plate, banging his chest with one hand while the other immediately grabbed his glass of water. He chugged it down, letting the water push the lodged food down.
"Aahhh," he deeply breathed out as he finished the glass in one go. "Safe…"
"You… What am I gonna do with you?" Himari did not sound angry nor disappointed… just defeated.
"Geez, you have some appetite. You'd probably give Raphael a run for his money."
Haruki glanced up to see Claude sitting across the table from him eating his own breakfast. Just seeing him made him annoyed.
"Well, you are a growing boy, so I guess having an appetite is a good thing if you want to become big and strong."
"..."
"Wait… Did he just refer to you as a child? HA! Well, for a pint-size dummy like you, he isn't that far off."
"Shut it."
With a scoff, Haruki proceeded to eat breakfast in a calmer manner. The food had him in an agreeable mood, so he was going to let that last remark he made slide...
"Speaking of which, you're pretty young for a mercenary. How old are you anyway?"
...For now, but this noble was playing too close to the fire.
"My, my. He sure doesn't beat around the bush. Hmm… You don't seem too happy about answering him."
"Because I'm not, and I'm not going to."
"Ehhh? Why not?!"
"I don't do small talk."
"Oh, come on! Just a friendly conversation to break the ice with a new face won't hurt. It'd be fun!
"We're here to gather information, not to have fun. And no way in hell I'll be friends with someone like him."
"Huh… That's quite the lame excuse for being socially anxious."
"...I'm not socially anxious."
"Whatever… But there's a tiny problem."
"What?"
"Look at him."
Haruki glanced away from his food to look at Claude, again. He was leaning slightly forward, with his chin resting on his palm. He looked carefree with that relaxed smile of his. Yet, his eyes were still attentively gazing upon him with calculating vigor.
"As you can see, he isn't going to budge."
She was right.
Even after conversing with Himari, Claude was still patiently waiting. Just by seeing that look he had, Haruki understood that Claude was the persistent type. It was not uncommon for nobles to act in such a way. But somehow… this felt different. Could it be his carefree nature that was throwing him for a loop?
"Well, there's no other way around it. Might as well indulge him. Besides, what harm is it to tell him at least the basics about yourself?"
"A lot of harm."
"Oh, that's just your social anxiety talking!"
"...I'm not-"
"'I'm not socially anxious,' Yada yada. Quit being a wuss already! We won't get anything out of him at this rate!"
"..."
Again, she was right. Feeling defeated, Haruki put down his fork and slouched back on the chair, arms crossed. With a quiet sigh, he glanced at Claude again.
"I'm sixteen," he finally answered.
"Huh, you sure took your time just to give me a simple answer," Claude playfully replied in an instant.
"I was just contemplating on whether or not it was even worth giving you one."
"Then, that means I was worth your time, after all. My, how humble I am to be blessed with such graciousness."
"..."
He knew he should've just kept his mouth shut.
In an instant, however, Claude's tone of voice suddenly became more serious - the complete opposite from just seconds ago.
"But sixteen, huh? That is really young for a mercenary. What made you take on such a dangerous job?"
"That question, huh?"
It was to be expected. After all, it was not everyday someone would come across a mercenary as young as Haruki. That was why It was common for him to hear that sort of question from those bold enough to talk to him. And every time, he gave them the same, short answer.
"It was the only choice I had. There's nothing more to it."
It was simple and concise. An answer that can deter anyone from pressing the matter any further.
And yet...
"Risking your life day in and day out was your only choice?"
Claude didn't.
"Wow! He sure is persistent. Heh-Heh!"
"..."
"What? It's not often someone would press this far to get to know you. I bet this is the longest friendly conversation you've had with someone that wasn't Byleth or Jeralt. While that's not saying much, congratulations are an order! Bravo!"
"..."
"Well? Quit stalling and say something!"
"You really are enjoying this, aren't you?"
"Oh? Am I?"
Like before, Himari feigned ignorance.
With a loud sigh, Haruki leaned forward onto the table, lacing his fingers together in front of him.
"The mercenary life gave me everything I needed to survive. Food and water, a warm fire, and the chance to earn my keep. The chances of dying that lingers above me does not outweigh those benefits."
"Hmm…"
He didn't know when it happened, but Haruki noticed that Claude no longer had his easy smile. Despite not knowing him for long, it was a strange look from him. And it wasn't just his lack of a smile. His whole expression looked more serious, seemingly engrossed in his words.
"Sounds like you haven't had it easy. So, of course taking the blade yourself was an option, but I can't help but feeling there could have been better ones that didn't involve you facing death like that. Don't you think?"
And yet, he was not satisfied and was pressing the matter too deep. It would be best to cut him off here and now.
"Who knows? But It's not like the alternatives matter now. I decided to take up a blade along with the old man and By. And I'm alive because of it."
That was all there was to it. Nothing more, nothing less. He made his choice. No use dwelling on the "what if's." Even if there could have been a better choice at the time. The time he decided to be a mercenary. And even the time he first met Byleth and the old man…
Even now, he made his choice to stay at the monastery and follow Sothis' plan. Even if there could have been a better approach, he won't dwell on it. They were gambles he willingly took.
No matter the choices he's made… No matter if they paid off or not.
"As long as I'm alive… I'll keep moving forward."
Both young men simply stared blankly at each other, with the only sounds present were the chattering of others around them. But after another minute, Claude's smile returned.
"I see. I'm starting to get a good idea about what you're saying. You do what you do to survive."
"Is that so strange?"
"Heh, hardly. That's something I genuinely understand. And besides, all the typical mercenaries I've met pretty much said the same thing. Either that, or they do it for gold."
"Hm..."
It looked as though Claude was finally done prying and resumed enjoying his breakfast. But just as Haruki was about to lay down his defenses, Claude said it.
"But… that's probably why I don't entirely buy that."
"...?"
Silence took over the conversation, again, but not like before.
"Hm? What? Something on my face?" Claude casually asked, brushing over the fact that he said something so bold. "Or, are you wondering what I'm talking about?"
"...The latter."
"Yeah, that did come out of the blue," Claude said before taking a final bite of his food. "I did say your answer was what any typical mercenary would say. And, I truly believe that you're doing all you can to survive. Anyone would if they were in your shoes."
"..."
"But the way I see it, that's only half the truth. Because the fact is, you are the last person that comes to mind when it comes to a typical mercenary."
"Care to elaborate?" Haruki asked, curious about the peculiar noble's perplexing words.
"Well let's look at the obvious: your fighting abilities."
"What about them?"
"You kidding? Your skills are second to none! Not to mention, there probably isn't anyone your age who wouldn't hesitate to cut down someone as easily as you can."
"How am I different from you?" Haruki retorted, remembering Claude killing the large bandit that night in Remire without an ounce of hesitation.
"True, I wouldn't feel bad taking down petty bandits, but that doesn't mean it's always easy for me to do so. You, on the other hand, look so unfazed about it all. It's uncanny! Not that I'm saying it's a bad thing, it's just pretty weird, even for mercenary standards. It makes you seem like you're not human."
"...Huh."
Haruki couldn't argue with that, but he did feel a strange irritation coming from within, likely coming from a certain someone.
"But there are times that make me think otherwise," Claude continued. "Like our little breakfast date, for example."
"Don't call it a date…"
"Hey, now! Only joking! So you can stop pointing that fork at me."
"Hmph."
"But in all seriousness, I feel like I saw a glimpse of another side of you today and at Remire."
"Remire?"
"Well, you saved us, of course," Claude answered gratefully. "And it is because you saved us out there that I don't entirely believe you. You didn't know us, and we weren't your clients. Yet, you stuck your neck out for us, anyway. That right there showed me that you do it more than just for survival… There's something else driving you."
Claude finished his lengthy explanation, and now he waited for any sort of response from the young mercenary. But all he received was a blank stare from the boy. That, along with the awkward silence made even Claude's carefree demeanor slightly crack. But it wasn't enough to deter him. In fact, he showed no sign of wanting to stop.
"Of course, that's all speculation. I'm not here to say I have you all figured out because I obviously don't. But that's why I'm curious about something… Why go through such lengths to save us when you didn't need to and if it meant nearly dying in the process?"
"Claude, please! Don't you think it's rude to push someone to answer when he doesn't want to?"
Suddenly, a third person arrived.
Exhaling the breath he just now realized he was holding, Haruki glanced to the right of Claude, spotting a familiar blonde young man with a blue cape draped over his shoulder.
Dimitri.
"Hey, now. We're just having deep, meaningful conversations here," Claude told Dimitri, slouching back onto his chair.
"Even so, there's a point when you're going too far."
"What? I was just curious."
Shaking his head, Dimitri sat down next to Claude and turned his attention to Haruki. "My apologies for Claude's behavior. Despite knowing him a short while, I know he's normally not like this, or at least to this degree."
Dimitri's appearance was unexpected, but it was a surprisingly welcomed one. Because unbeknownst to everyone else, behind Haruki's blank expressions, he was reaching his limit. Yes, the question seemed as harmless as asking the reasoning behind being a mercenary. He… just hated talking about himself, especially if there's a chance the conversation delved too deep on matters that were better left unsaid.
Maybe he really was socially anxious… Unthinkable.
"You shouldn't apologize on his behalf," Haruki finally said. "You don't own him or anything"
"That's true, but-"
"Drop it already. If anything I'd say it's my fault for making him interested in me."
"Well, what can I say? You're just an interesting guy!" Claude chimed in. "Who wouldn't want to talk to the person who saved them? If you hadn't done what you did, we'd all be dead by now."
"On that I can agree," Dimitri smiled, "Regardless of your reason, you saved our lives all the same. We're in your debt."
"...Hm…."
"Well, let's save that question for another time. I think I've bent your ear enough for today. So how about it? Got any questions to ask? Now that his highness is here, you now have two House Leaders to help you out."
"His highness?" Haruki stared at Dimitri curiously.
"I'd be happy to help. But first, let me apologize once again," the blonde noble said. "Despite you coming to our aid, I hadn't even the courtesy to properly introduce myself."
That was true. Haruki may now know their first names, yet that was all. He knew they were of noble rank. that much was obvious.
However…
"My name is Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd, crown prince of the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus.
"...?!"
"HE'S A PRINCE?!"
A prince…
A crown prince...
Meaning a future king…
If Dimitri was the next king of Faerghus, then what about Claude? What Mia called him earlier was still fresh in his mind. He knew he had heard that name before. Piecing two and two together, he finally remembered.
"...Reigan," he shifted his gaze over to Claude.
"So you caught that after all. I guess I'd better introduce myself properly too. I'm Claude von Reigan. I'm from the ruling house of the Leicester Alliance.
"HE'S THE NEXT SOVEREIGN DUKE?!"
"Quit yelling, dumbass!"
It was hypocritical of him to tell Himari to calm down, since he was just as shocked. If the pattern followed…
"Does that mean that girl that was with you…?"
"Edelgard von Hresvelg," Claude answered. "Princess of the Adrestian Empire, and next in line to the throne."
"WHAT THE-"
"-Hell," Haruki, in disbelief, slouched back on his chair while rubbing his head. "The three future leaders of Fodlan. Converged in one place… you can't be serious."
"I know this came as a shock for you," Dimitri continued. "And while we do hold great responsibility in our future, right now, we're simply students like everyone else. Just like you will be. Speaking of, have you spoken with Seteth about your enlistment?"
"Not yet," the boy said honestly.
"I see, then it's no wonder you have questions."
"No worries though," Claude assured. "I'm sure Seteth will explain the finer details, but we'll give you the basics."
After calming his shock, Haruki listened to the two House Leaders explain the general basics of the Officer's Academy. As the name implies, the Academy is meant to educate heirs of nobility about the art of warfare, leadership, and tactics. While most of the students here are from noble birth, Claude assured that commoners also attend.
It acts as a microcosm of sorts, where the students are divided into three separate houses based on their nationality.
Those of the Adrestian Empire are members of the Black Eagle House, led by Edelgard.
Those of the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus are members of the Blue Lion House, led by Dimitri.
Those of the Leicester Alliance are members of the Golden Deer House, led by Claude.
In addition to the House Leaders, each house is assigned a homeroom professor, who acts as a guide, advisor, and mentor to the students of that house.
Lastly, during each moon, the three houses have missions outside the monastery which give the students the opportunity to use the skills they have learned up until that point in real battle scenarios. While the students are aided by the Knights of Seiros, these missions are led by the House Leader and the homeroom professor.
Not every student takes part in these missions, however. Those who are eligible to participate in missions are students enrolled in the Upper Echelon Course. This group consists of those from notable noble houses, like House Hresvelg, House Blaiddyd, and House Reigan; it also includes those who have scored high marks in the entrance exam or have been approved by the Academy and Garreg Mach to participate.
"So this place throws young boys and girls into battle that could cost them their lives," Himari surmised. "I know it's to be expected in a literal military academy, but…"
"First hand experience is the best way to get a real taste of this shitty world."
"Speaking from your own experience?"
"..."
"But even so, I'm a little worried about that, after what happened at Remire. I hope that night will serve as a wake-up call for the Church to act more cautiously. If the houses are at least assigned a unit of Knights and a professor… wait a minute, a professor… Does that mean…?"
At that moment, Haruki realized Himari's assumption.
"Does this mean By will be assigned a house to teach?"
"You catch on quick," Claude nodded. "Not only did he land a teaching gig, he now has a chance to pick and choose which house he wants to lead. Talk about a first impression."
"I have to wonder, though," Dimitri pinched his chin. "Which house will Professor Byleth ultimately choose?"
"Who knows? I bet he'll like ours. We're not as… difficult. You'd fit right in, too, Haruki."
"...?" Haruki tilted his head curiously.
"Like we've been saying, the house you join depends on your nationality. But a wandering mercenary like you doesn't really have one. So it's safe to assume that you'll also have free reign to choose the house you want."
"Oh?"
The cogs inside Haruki's head began to turn. If what Claude said was true, it brings a number of possibilities. Three to be exact.
The Black Eagles.
The Blue Lions.
The Golden Deer.
Which one was the best choice?
"Of course, that's all speculation," Dimitri said. "The only person who has a concrete answer will be Seteth."
"...You're probably right."
There was no point in thinking about it, now - not until after he spoke with Seteth. That being said, Haruki picked up his tray and stood up from his chair.
"Oh? Leaving already?" Dimitri asked.
"You gave me plenty of information. No use staying here any longer."
"I-I see. Well, I'm glad we were able to help. Ah, but before you go," the prince of Faerghus took a glance at Haruki's crutch. "I have to ask. How are your injuries?"
"Hm?" Haruki raised a brow, not expecting such a question to come so suddenly. "Fine, I guess."
"I'm glad to hear it," Dimitri faintly smiled. "You were in bad shape when we found you unconscious. It had me on edge."
"Ha! No kidding," Claude casually slapped the prince's shoulder. "He even went as far as carrying on his back all the way here."
"...Come again?" Now Haruki's eye widened.
"It's true," Dimitri scratched the back of his head nervously. "I felt guilty that you got yourself hurt saving us. It was the least I could do to make up for it."
"Isn't this place far from Remire?"
"It's only a few hours travel."
"Still, carrying me all that time?"
"Ha-ha, it was no trouble at all. Besides, you're as light as a feather."
"..."
"..."
An awkward stare-down ensued between the mercenary and the prince, with the only sound being Claude trying his hardest not to burst into laughter. All the while, Haruki could hear hysterical laughter inside his head.
"I'm gonna pretend I didn't hear that," Haruki turned away, signaling he was done conversing with the two.
"I think it's about time I head off too. I rather enjoyed our conversation, you know. Thanks for letting me bend your ear a bit."
"Are you sure this wasn't just a ploy to bother him?"
"Your highness, what kind of person do you think I am?"
"..."
"Don't answer that. But seriously, thanks for taking the time, Haruki."
Genuine gratitude, coming from Claude no less.
"But remember. You. Me. Golden Deer. We could be great together."
And with a smile and a wink, that genuineness was thrown out the window.
"Do you know where his office is? I'd be more than happy to show you."
"I'm fine," Haruki rejected Dimitri's offer and walked away, not even sparing a glance at either of them, much less a farewell. And with that, he finally escaped from the two future leaders of Fodlan.
As he continued to approach the food counter to turn in his tray, a familiar light manifested next to him and out came Himari carrying a satisfied grin.
"You enjoyed every minute of that."
"Yes. Yes I did. Very much so." She finally responded truthfully. "And my, oh my, who would have thought we'd be speaking to practically royalty? You must have some special power to attract big-shots"
"If I do have such a thing, I'd find a way to remove it as fast as possible."
"Heh, good luck with that, Mr. Popular. Regardless, they are both quite the characters. You must have some opinion of them. Well?
"The prince seems like the typical goody goody noble."
"Is that such a bad thing?"
"Not necessarily, but still…"
"Hm… But Dimitri's kindness seems genuine. It wouldn't hurt to stay on his good side. You sensed it too, right? That strong aura of his?"
"...It's very hard not to notice."
"Anyways, what about Claude?"
"Annoying. Downright annoying."
"I had a feeling you'd say that," she rolled her eyes, "I could feel your irritation every time he spoke."
"He's just so damn annoying."
"Yes, yes. I heard you the first time. Do you at least have one good thing to say about him?"
"...He's a decent shot with a bow, I guess."
With a facepalm, Himari groaned. "Well, perfect marks for effort, I suppose."
"At least he's off my ass."
"For now, that is."
Haruki let out an exhausting sigh as he wearily handed over his food trays to a Dining Hall servant.
"I'm beat."
"It's not even past noon, Haruki. And we still have Seteth to talk to."
"…Don't remind me."
"Hmmm… Oh!"
Himari rushed toward the food display, laying eyes on something that even got Haruki's attention.
Something sweet… Delicious.
"This will definitely get you going for the rest of the day!"
Catching up to her, he saw a single plate. One containing three large, freshly-made bun pastries. So fresh that it was still steamy. Each one was filled with fruity jelly. The aroma was enough to nearly make his mouth water.
"Heh-heh! I can tell you want to try it. Come on! Let's just take one to go!"
Haruki didn't have to think for a second. He moved his hand out toward the pastry. Or rather… the plate.
"W-wait! No need to be greedy! I said one!"
He ignored her, and grabbed the plate.
"...Eh?"
Only to realize there was another hand holding it, too.
Scowling, he turned his head to lock eyes on a small girl wearing a student uniform. fair, pale skin, and hair just as white as his.
But what caught his attention was her own scowl and the raging fire within her rosy pink eyes.
He slightly pulled the plate, but it didn't budge. She had a firm grip, and his attempt seemed to irritate her more.
"I got to it first," she spoke, spewing words like venom.
"Huh?" But her venom only irritated him just as much. "Like hell, you did."
The two fiercely glared at one another, neither one letting up in the slightest as they both pulled on the plate.
As the struggle between the two sweet-crazed students raged on, Himari felt something off - something coming from the girl.
"Um… Haruki?"
"I'm busy, dammit."
"Well stop it, you dummy! This isn't going to end well!"
"What do you - oh…"
Haruki now sensed what Himari did: the intense magical aura emanating within the girl, waiting to let loose if this keeps up.
"Knock it off, already! Are you wanting to cause trouble on your very first day?!"
"..."
He didn't need to think about it, as he clearly understood what was the most logical choice. But even so, it didn't mean he liked it one bit.
"...Tsk," with a click of his tongue, he let go of the plate of sweets. Despite their little bout ending, the two white-haired students continued to glare at each other.
"Damn it all," Haruki was the first to break eye-contact as he turned around and left the Dining Hall, with Himari not far behind.
"Well… um… that was scary," Himari said once outside the hall and into a small courtyard. "You made the right choice, though. Who knows what kind of power she'd unleash over some pastry. All I know is that it wouldn't turn out well for you."
"Who knows," Haruki said… as he took a bite of a bun. "Hmm, so sweet."
"...Haruki?"
"What?" he took another bite. "You said just one."
"Honestly… you really are a handful," she solemnly said but with a smile. "Right then, off to see Seteth!"
"Right."
"By the way, where's his office?"
"..."
"..."
"We'll figure it out."
Back in the dining hall, the white-haired girl stared at her plate of sweet bun trio. However, it was no longer a trio.
One was missing…
Stolen…
And she knew exactly who the culprit was, and she gritted her teeth.
"He will regret this."
AN
Hello, all!
It seems like a certain sweet-loving mini nuke has his eyes locked on our Scarlet Phantom. I hope you enjoyed a more easygoing chapter. Next time, we will have Haruki's meeting with Seteth as well as our young mercenaries major choice: the houses he wishes to join!
On another note, I'm sure many are aware of the passing of Billy Kametz, the voice of the noblest of nobles, Ferdinand von Aegir. It is still heartbreaking to know that we've lost such a talented and genuinely kindhearted man so soon. But it also reminds me how short, harsh, and unpredictable life can be. That is why I wish for all of you to always keep the ones you love close to you, and never let them go, because you never know what tomorrow will hold.
May Billy's name forever be in our hearts.
Here's a link to his GoFundMe page if you wish to donate to his celebration of life and funeral as well as contribute to the Colon Cancer Coalition in his honor.
https/gofund.me/5077b290
Thank you again for reading and I will see you all next time.
-JQ
