Hello again everyone. It's about time for another chapter. Sorry about the delay. I've been a little busy over the past few weeks. For this part I figured I'd focus on setting the scene for things to come. A lot of you asked for more Petra, too. I think you'll be pleased with where I went here.

Lets begin shall we?

Unease (Black Eagles VII)

Time is passing too quickly for my liking; I wish I had the power to turn the clock around. Every hour I can't spend training is an hour I lose for good. Four days have raced past since Petra revealed the bitter truth of Edelgard's intentions. I've come to realize my joining the Black Eagle house was worthless - aside Dorothea. I'm not needed by anyone; I serve no purpose aside acting as a chess piece on Hubert's board. A bitter fate - one I'll not accept outright.

If all I've worked toward is a lie then I'll do what little I can to make a difference. I'm trapped, true enough - but I can still save Petra from her future as an Adrestian servant. No - I will save her. She's become a fragile guiding light in my darkest hour. She'd save me if she had the means.

I've stuck with her through thick and thin - from the first bell of class until bedtime. We've only parted company to take a much-needed baths or get some sleep. We've trained and trained like we never thought possible. There's not a doubt in my mind if I'd met Petra when I was younger I'd probably be an expert swordsman already. Even better, Hubert is none the wiser. To him we're preparing for a "trivial" tournament.

And with classes almost finished it's nearly time to continue those preparations.

I'm keeping a close watch over the grandfather clock at the front of homeroom. Professor Manuela has talked for nearly an hour about magical aptitude - a useless topic for a guy like me. I'm not Linhardt of Dorothea - put a spell book in my hands and I'll probably burn them to cinders. More harm than good would come of it. Steel is a safer weapon of choice; one I'm well-versed in.

The hands of the clock are inching forwards.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

Just a minute more and the monastery bells will chime. I'll be free to leave. We have four days left until the tournament. Word has it they'll be posting up the brackets for the first round tomorrow. I need to be prepared for anything; especially if the rules are correct.

Each class has two representatives. Petra and I stand for the Black Eagles. I hear on the grapevine Felix and Miss Mercedes are fighting on behalf of Prince Dimitri and the Blue Lions. What worries me is the lack of knowing who Claude selected from the Golden Deer. So far I've heard nothing - not a peep nor a whisper. Nobody is talking, and I wasn't told a thing before switching classes.

The chime of church bells frees me from my curiosity. At last I can get out of here.

Professor Manuela closes her tome. "That'll be all today my lovely students. I'd recommend those of you intent on taking the advancement tests for a magical school read Scholar Melvin's Book of Tricks; pages seventeen through thirty-four have all the information you'll need."

With classes over plenty of students begin piling out. Edelgard stays behind; as usual she's talking in a hushed tone with Hubert at the front of the room. I wonder what they might be scheming today? Who else are they hoping to manipulate?

Dorothea ruffles my hair, breaking me from my resentment. She wears a kind smile. "A fun class, wasn't it? I'd like to learn some healing spells."

I'd better play the fool; I force a smile too.

"Magic's not my strong point, but it was interesting enough, sure."

"Rolan," the songstress grabs for one of my hands; she ties her fingers with mine. "Let's have dinner in the mess hall. You've been so busy that I've hardly seen you this week." She bats her eyelashes in an attempt to win me over. "I hear they're serving cake for dessert. Let's share a slice."

"Sorry, dearest." As lovely she as idea might be, I don't have the time. "I'm training with Petra again tonight. Any other day I would, but the tournament's so close and all-"

"Of course," says Dorothea with a deep exhale, cutting me off. "I was hoping to spend time you this evening. A girl gets lonely eating dinner by herself after so long." She pulls awat from me and gets to work putting her books in her bag. "You took it to heart when I said you should prove your worth, huh?" There's an icy tinge to her question. "Your training is obviously important."

Dorothea throws her satchel over her shoulder and heads for the door before I'm able to answer. "You're terribly single-minded. If you don't slow down you'll end up exhausted by the week's end." She stops in the doorway, glancing back. Her eyes are watering. "Have a good evening." The ice in her voice turns to gloom. "I won't ask again tomorrow. No doubt you're busy..."

Dorothea leaves me on my lonesome. As upset as I am to refuse her, I have little choice.

Petra ducked out of class around the halfway point of Professor Manuela's discussion on healing spells - it's the only time we've separated during class since Monday. She's already starting her warmup at the training grounds; I'd rather not keep her waiting. Today she's teaching me how to best improve my fist-fighting technique. A lesson I can't refuse considering I have to expand my mind when it comes to combat - her words not mine.

I just wish I'd handled the dinner situation using a shred more tact. "Sorry, dearest."

Shaking the thought from mind, I collect up my things and begin on my way across the monastery grounds double quick. Brigid's princess awaits my arrival, and there's no way I can let her down. Unlike mine and Dorothea's future; Petra's hangs in the balance. Winning this tournament is her clearest shot at breaking free. I made a promise to help her. I'm a man of my word when it comes to fighting for my friends.

I've yet to tire of the training grounds. I feel a welcoming sense of familiarity every time I step through the doors; especially when I'm one of the only people here. I can centre myself; I can focus on the important things. Here I'm not just Rolan - the son of a baker. I'm a man with a mission. I have purpose. I have focus. I've a reason to fight, and fight well. Nothing holds me back.

Or that should be the case, at least.

I can't stop thinking of how sad Dorothea looked when I turned down her offer. Usually I'm able to concentrate when training is afoot. Today I'm distracted, annoyingly so. I take a quiet breath to steady my thoughts. Now isn't the time to lose sight of what's important. I have a goal in mind; my mission is to help a friend in need. Being side-tracked won't do any good.

Petra and I have been scrapping for a good long while. Fist after fist. Blow after blow. For someone shorter than me she hits hard; very hard. Each punch I throw is returned with twice the force. Every successive jab Petra lands hurts more and more. It's getting harder to move, even harder to stand. Brigid fighting is rough; skin to skin and body to body. It's an exhausting brawl in the name of strength.

I have to fight on - no matter the pain.

"That is enough for now." Petra eyes me brightly, lowering her fists. She bows her head; her cheeks are flushed a dark shade of red. My guess is she's tired from all of the time spent preparing for the coming tournament. "You are improving. I have wishes to teach you more in the coming days, but we must have the rest first, Rolan. We will continue after your bruises are gone."

I can't afford to stop, not yet. "Let's keep going," I nurse my sore rib, biting my lip. "I'm fine to go another round."

Petra looks me over with concern. "Are you sure? You are- What is the word? A frown. You are frowning. I see the pain on your face."

I have to keep my eyes on the prize, as Pop would say. "I'll be alright."

Brigid's princess doesn't see it that way. She takes me aside; we sit together on the stone floor beside the arena. I'm too easy to read, and damn do I feel silly for it. I'm here to help Petra, not the other way around. No good will come of her wasting valuable time on me. It doesn't matter if my body aches. There will be time to rest when our usual routine is finished.

"It is better if we are stopping. You are holding your side and your breathing is weak."

"It doesn't matter," I insist. "My issues are petty when compared to yours." I force a smile to ward her off the beaten path. "We're better off getting ready for the tournament instead of chatting." I get to my feet again. "C'mon. Let's train." I wince, gulping a mouthful of air. "I-I can take it."

Petra refuses the hand I offer. "I feel much worry for you, Rolan. Do you see the mirror often? It is not just the frowning, or the pain. Black rings are under your eyes. Your skin shows paleness. I am thinking you need to... What is the saying? Pace yourself?"

I haven't looked in the mirror for a while. I don't dwell on vanity when there's a task at hand. Sure, I feel a bit on the groggy side, but that's completely normal. No - it's to be expected, even. There's no rest for the wicked. If I'm to do right by Petra I have to work hard for the both of us. "I'll manage just fine... Everyone feels under the weather from time to time."

"I am not believing you. When did you last have the good sleeps?"

She's got me. I don't have an answer she'll be pleased with - not a truthful one. I hang my head, bested. "I'm napping between classes; it keeps my energy up. Lounging in bed wastes too much time. Look, it's not an issue; I can still fight."

Petra gets to her feet. "You cannot - you are barely standing."

A light shove from the girl sees me wobble and fall.

My exhausted body collides with the sands of the arena. I curl into a ball - defeated soundly. I barely have the strength to get to my knees - let alone brush my shirt down. Petra towers over me; her point well and truly made. She pulls me up; I lean on her for support. "You are working too hard," she says, sweeping me into a caring hug. "I saw the same before you're leaving the Golden Deer. You treat all tasks with pride... but you are never stopping."

"There's no choice now I know Edelgard's plans. My place in the Black Eagles is hollow - worthless. But that doesn't mean I can't help you get free. It's the least I can do. From one outsider to another." The latter part of what she said finally clicks into place. "And what do you mean 'you saw the same'? Were you watching me before I changed houses?"

Petra blushes violently. "What I am meaning to say is-" She flounders. The unusually shy look on her face speaks volumes.

There were several moments when I first joined Garreg Mach where I felt somebody watching me. It usually happened when I trained by myself in the early hours of the morning. Back then nobody bothered talking to me; I hadn't reconnected with Hilda or spoken to Dorothea for the first time. Yet the feeling persisted, sunrise after sunrise. In the end I pushed it from my mind, but not completely.

"You were, weren't you?"

Petra holds me even tighter, laying her head of long and braided hair against my chest. "I saw you were alone, much like me. Before our first meeting I was wanting to approach you, but I felt much fear. I was afraid you would see me as a foreign girl of Brigid, not a real person... I feared you would shun me."

Her admission is sharper than a knife to the stomach; I'm fighting tears. To think - this talented and beautiful lassie wanted to be my friend for all this time. She kept away because of fear I'd judge her for something she has no control over. She couldn't be more wrong about me if she tried, and hopefully she's able to see it now. But just to be sure, I'll tell her why I value her friendship.

"Where you come from doesn't bother me; I respect you for it. You carry the weight of an entire country, and yet you never back down, Petra. You're a woman to admire; headstrong - I've never seen you panic under stress. You're everything I hope to become as a warrior."

My honesty earns me a surprised gasp. Petra's blinks once, and twice. "T-Truly? You are serious about the things you say? You are not telling lies?" I feel her fingers sink into my back; her nails are sharp. She inches nearer; the heat of her body rewards me a pleasing shudder.

"I'm serious. Why'd you reckon I come here for practice? I walked into a trap by joining a new house, but there's still hope for you to get out. I won't rest easy knowing you're Edelgard's servant; you deserve far better. I-I can't leave Dorothea behind, but you? You can earn your freedom... I want to help you. I'll fight at your side, like a real swordsman..."

"You will-" Petra squeaks. "You will fight with me?"

"With my life if need be." It's the only way I'll prove to myself I'm worthwhile. There's no better way to show I'm cut out to be a soldier. "That's what friends are for, Petra. They look out for one-another; defend each-other from harm."

"I am filled with gladness knowing you feel this way. My feelings are the same, Rolan." Petra releases me from her embrace. She motions toward the door with a glance. "Will you take a walk with me?"

"Of course, though let's no wander too far. I'm still sore." I find my own two feet as best I can.

My many knocks and scuffs will hurt even more come sunrise.

I leave the training grounds with my trusted friend at my side. We begin on a long walk past the ground floor dormitories. I hold am arm around my middle to ward off the nip in the air. The sun has long since set and there's hardly any students around. One or two are coming and going from the bathhouse, but most have returned to their rooms by now. It won't be too long until the curfew bell rings. I'll be mindful to return to my dorm before then.

Petra leads me to the monastery's renowned fishing spot. She steps out onto the boardwalk and gazes outward to the water. A youthful moon is rising; its light paints a beautiful reflection against the water's surface. "It is a pleasing sight here. I am wanting to see more things like this in Fodlan." Despite her hopeful words she sounds sad. "But I am feeling fear for the beautiful things. If Edelgard angers the church the peace might end."

She's right. Lady Rhea is far from forgiving of anybody who steps out of line. I've heard the stories from my former classmates in the Golden Deer. There have been a few times where the Archbishop has sent Professor Byleth to deal with zealots who've strayed from the goddesses' teachings.

A tear rolls down Petra's cheek, something I never thought I'd see. She turns away from me in a bid to hide her face. "You must be forgiving of me. There is something in my eye..." Her shoulders stiffen and her breaths become shaky.

I pat her on the back for comfort. "Are you sure-"

She turns around again - fragile and unguarded. Her eyes quiver.

"What's wrong?" I ask kindly, resting both hands upon Petra's shoulders.

"I am feeling much regret for telling you of Hubert and Edelgard's plannings; you are working too hard. I should be the one who is stopping them. It is my responsibility as a woman of Brigid. Adrestia has treated my people unkindly too many times."

"Like I'll let you face this alone. It's too dangerous. I don't matter here; I'm unimportant. But you? People need you."

Petra sighs in response. "Rolan... Why do you not respect yourself? You talk with sadness about your life. You are a Black Eagle now. Your wish is granted. Are you not happy? Does being in Garreg Mach not make you feel gladness?"

A lady as intelligent as she is beautiful. There's no hiding anything from her, clearly. She deserves to hear how I feel. Who knows? Maybe being honest with her will help me come to terms with the situation I find myself in. "I thought I was free... I figured so long as I could get the money to stay here I'd have no worries. I was an idiot for being so short-sighted. Now I'm stuck in the middle of something way bigger than me."

Carrying the secret of Edelgard's intentions feels like having a lead weight sitting in the pit of my stomach. And knowing I'm here as little more than a glorified pawn is even worse. I'm a common nobody all over again, and just when I hoped I'd become somebody, too. What hurts most is that I cannot speak a word of this to Dorothea; it's not safe. There's no easy road ahead, only danger awaits.

"You can abandon me if you are wanting to be free of worries. I will not hate you for it."

"Not a chance. I hurt Hilda when I left the Golden Deer. I won't do the same twice."

"Thanking you with niceness; I have gratefulness" Petra's holds her hands against my face. "I am only hoping Dorothea will forgive me."

"F-Forgive you," I whisper, my heart is pounding all of the sudden. She's close - so close that her breaths make my skin tingle. "What for?"

"Women of my country speak with actions when they are in love..."

Petra leans in and presses her lips to mine - with fire and ferocity. She trembles with vigor.

I'm melting - despite the urge to pull away. I surrender to the whims of the princess, returning her gesture. My arms find their way around her slim waist. Our embrace becomes a tussle - fearsome and untamed - though not out of hunger. I feel love unending in Petra's arms. Kiss after kiss follows. I'm left exhausted when I'm finally released. My head is light; it's like I'm floating on a cloud.

Petra takes short breaths to steady herself, breaking our silence.

A battle rages within me - a war between bliss and guilt. I trace my fingers over my lips. "We shouldn't have," I whisper

"I have no regrets with the kissing. You do it well."

My cheeks burn from her compliment. "I-I-" My voice cracks. I can't stay here. "See you tomorrow Petra. I'll sleep, and then we'll train."

I pull away to make my retreat. Petra snags my wrist before I'm able to leave. "I do not know the Fodlan words to speak... but I will always be caring about you - even if the feelings of love you have belong to another..." I'm released from her grip - free to depart. "I am wishing good sleep to you, Rolan."

"You too - you too..."

I break my usual rules on vanity when I return to my dorm. Petra's actions tonight gave me pause for thought. I'm fixated upon the mirror.

"I can't look as tired as she says."

My brown eyes are droopy. My skin is paler than the norm and my lengthy hair of black is messier than usual. I'm tall and slim with sharp features and a strong jaw. My body is toned from many hours of sword practice. My looks betray those of a commoner working hard days - but my creased uniform and scuffed blazer jacket leave much to the imagination. Okay, maybe Petra's right. I'm untidy around the edges.

But there's little time to pause. Every time I do I'm reminded of Hubert and Edelgard. My blood simmers thinking about them.

I clench my fists; rage overtakes me. "I'm not gonna be the pawn of some noble!"

No - this isn't the way. I've gotta to keep calm and show some faith.

The letter Petra showed me proves Adrestia's frustration with the followers of Seiros. Rhea won't take chances. Plenty of believers and people with influence will see reason enough to act in defence of the church. The Goddess Sothis is worshipped by lowborn and highborn alike. Edelgard will be forced to confess her sins, and Brigid will earn its freedom. It's just a case of who acts first.

I steady myself, cooling my fury with a deep breath in and out. Dorothea can never find out about any of this, whatever happens. I don't care if she's angry with me for it. Her safety is the only thing that matters. I've betrayed her with a kiss, even if she doesn't know it. It falls to me to do the right thing.

I clench my fist tightly, holding it over my beating heart. "I'm behind you, Petra. I only wish I wasn't so powerless."

A knock against the door makes me flinch. I head on over and slide the deadbolt loose before, slipping on my shoes when I'm done. "Who is it?"

"It is Hubert. Open the door. We must speak regarding a matter of the utmost importance."

There's no mistaking the cold aloofness of that voice. It's him alright - but he sounds flustered. Upon bringing the door wide I see it as well. Is usual calmness is nowhere to be found - replaced with a hint of nervy agitation. It's what he says next that stuns me the most.

"I realize you are new to our house, but I will ask all the same. Have you seen or conversed with Lady Edelgard at any point since sunset?"

"Not once." I shake my head. I don't make a hobby of spending time with folks who use me. "Why?"

Hubert snarls under his breath, his composure cracks. "Then my unease is justified. You were the last one to be asked." He grabs me by the scruff of my collar and pulls me out into the cold. "Come, quickly. If you are to earn your place as a Black Eagle then you will do so now - tonight."

I keep pace with Hubert, if only out of an urge to punch him for being so rude. "I'd like a bloody apology before I go anywhere with you."

"Silence," he speaks coldly, leering back at me. His deathly glare makes my skin skitter. "We are gathering a small search party. Edelgard is missing."

"Missing?" My feet stall at the news. "You're not serious, right?" Edelgard Von Hresvelg never goes anywhere unattended.

"Did I stutter?" shoots Hubert with bitterness, walking on ahead. "She ventured into town with a guard detail of my choosing, insistent on being without my supervision on this one occasion. Neither she nor her soldiers have returned. I suspect foul play."

I pick up the pace and re-join Hubert. We make our way to the Black Eagle homeroom. Dorothea awaits us there with tall orange-haired and handsome fellow. I've spoken with him in passing since joining the Black Eagles. His name is Ferdinand - Ferdinand Von Aiger. He's the son of Adrestia's Prime Minister.

Hubert heaves the doors closed with my help. We join the others.

"Just the four of us, Hubie?" asks Dorothea, rising from her seat at a bench near the front of the room. She hurries over to my side.

"Yes - four will suffice until I ascertain the nature of our current circumstances. Every second wasted gathering more hands is a further second Edelgard's life may be in danger. Do not concern yourself with my reasoning; I have called the three of you here because you are above reasonable suspicion."

"Wait," Ferdinand scoffs, flashing me an accusing glance. He narrows his eyes and I stare him back. "He's above suspicion?"

"Stop it Ferdie." Dorothea stands to my defence. She sparks up a tiny warning fireball; it fizzles within her grasp. "Be nice."

"Easy there Dorothea." He eases off. "I didn't say I'd hurt anyone. I'm ever the well-bred gentleman."

Content, she extinguishes her sizzling fingers. "Good."

"Settle yourself, Ferdinand," remarks Hubert. "He is a newcomer with almost no knowledge of our house, while you and Dorothea were clueless as to mine Edelgard's plans today. Petra too was with the Golden Deer Transfer, and likewise uninformed. Three of the men I assigned to this task were of House Bergliez - while two were Lady Rhea's subordinates - supporters of the Saint Seiros. The three Bergliez soldiers were found by my agents at dusk by the waterfront - dead."

Ferdinand snaps his fingers. He whistles as if he's impressed. "I get it. You suspect the church."

A frozen twinge runs down my spine. Why would followers of Lady Rhea kill Adrestian-born soldiers? The Church of Seiros is peaceful.

"We must hurry," decrees Hubert. "Ferdinand - unbar the door. The four of us will depart for town and search. Forget curfew. This is official business."

It isn't long before our small group leaves through the hefty portcullis of Garreg Mach's inner fort. Hubert and Ferdinand lead, while Dorothea and I provide support from the rear. A far larger fireball than before roars in her outstretched palm; its orange glow cuts through the evening murk.

I'm dwelling on something Hubert said earlier.

"The three Bergliez soldiers were found by my agents at dusk by the waterfront - dead."

Something here is amiss. I can understand hunting heretics, but why would Knights of Seiros kill without need? Rhea is stern - but she's not murderer... is she? No - she can't be. Professor Byleth wouldn't be so close to her if that were the case. I have a jittery feeling in my stomach all of the sudden. First there was the letter Edelgard sent Petra, and now this.

I'm glad I brought a sword with me before leaving the monastery. Hopefully I won't need it.

"Rolan," Dorothea slows to match my steps. Her face falls; she furrows her brow out of concern. "Are you feeling alright, love?"

I stick extra close to her, drawing my blade - just to be safe. "Fine - but keep by my side."

She smirks. "You can put that thing away. Who's the one holding magical fire in her hand?"

Sadly I'm not all too reassured. "It's staying out - we'll be safer. I can get up close and strike before you cast another."

"You're no fun Rolan..."

"We have arrived." Hubert stops us at the bottom of the hill which separates the town and the monastery. "Ferdinand, you will come with me. Dorothea, take Rolan. We will search every inch. Leave no stone unturned or corner unchecked. Let us meet by the inn in the middle of town just before midnight. We will stay the night if need demands, and call in the the military at dawn. Edelgard absolutely did not come home; she is here somewhere."

"Right you are." Ferdinand salutes.

Orders provided, Dorothea and I start our search. "We'll let you know if we find anything, Hubie."

Our mission takes us high and low, past quiet rows of houses and through grubby alleyways. A few muscle-bound thugs caused us trouble out front of a grungy of a tavern, but a quick spell scared them off right quick. The longer we search, the more I on edge I feel. One of Ferdinand's earlier comments returns to me.

"I get it. You suspect the church."

When return to the monastery I'll ask Petra to hold off on handing her letter to the Archbishop.

Maybe I'm paranoid, but one of Fodlan's most well-protected individuals shouldn't just vanish.

To be continued...

There you have it! Another chapter comes to a close! Did you like it? Would you like to see more in future? Feel free to leave some feedback and share your thoughts. The tournament is coming soon. As always, keep on supporting Fire Emblem and I'll see you in the next part. Thanks again!