I figured I'd give you guys an extra long chapter to enjoy. The journey continues and Rolan's connection with Edelgard deepens. I'd love to hear your thoughts on their bond, so feel welcome to share. Let's get started shall we? I hope you enjoy the read; it's my gift to you!

Thank you for supporting me and this story so far. I really appreciate it!

Respite (Black Eagles XII)

Having moved to the front of the cart to ease my travel sickness, I raise my head toward the sky and breathe through my nose to steady my stomach.

Sat beside me, Anna keeps her hands on the reins and her attention on the road. It'll be sundown in a couple of hours. and there's still a short ways to go until Rena. Least that's what she told me after a quick rest stop.

For a while it's been quiet between us, but she's been itching to find out why I'm out here, and with a scruffy princess of all people. I've answered the bare minimum so far, but I doubt it'll satisfy her urge for information much longer. The merchant's life makes her seriously inquisitive.

"So... The Western Church abducted Lady Edelgard?" she asks.

I knew it was coming. Same old Anna; can't bite her tongue when curiousity gets her.

"Got it in one." My reply is strained. I'll vomit if I turn my head; I just know it.

"And they snatched you while searching for her with your friend?"

I haven't gotten around to telling Anna about myself and Dorothea's connection. It's a less important detail compared to the wider issue we face.

"That's about the long and short of it, yep."

"...The blood on your shirt..." Anna changes topics, much to my displeasure. "Did you..?"

No sense lying to her.

"One of the church fanatics," I explain plainly, having accepted the situation for what it is. "...It was him or us, and I wasn't about to die. Not a chance. I've yet to make something of myself, and I'll bet the old man would agree with me as well."

"Kojiro would fret, Rolan..." Anna remarks, flat her usual salesman's sunshine. "Same for your mother."

"Then we don't tell them. No sense getting the old goat worked up; Ma's still sick and he doesn't need the added stress."

"You want me to lie to them?" Anna's shock rings in my ears. "...I'd rather not."

"Just tilt the truth a little. You merchant's do it all the time."

"That's not fair," Anna huffs. I can see her pouting in my mind's eye.

"Eyes on the money. Isn't that how you do things?"

"But this is different... What about your sister? If Leena knew I was helping her little brother escape from zealots-"

The last thing I want to do is discuss Sister. My shoulders tense and my skin prickles.

"Like Leena would care," I spit coldly. "She made her choice when she became Lord Harris' plaything."

Anna goes silent. My sudden flash of anger fading, I feel dreadful. I was a real arse there.

"Sorry... I know you loved her, Anna."

"It is what it is," the redhead comments with gloom. "...Alright," she sighs. "I'll keep it hush... but there's teeny catch."

Of course there is. "...Go on. Indulge me."

"If you make it big in Adrestia, you'll buy all your supplies from me. Deal?"

"...Not much of a catch. You know I would've anyway."

"Exactly, but I figured I'd put it out there, given how sweet your dad was when Leena first brought me home. Shake on it, at least?"

"Later. If I move I'll be sick."

"Alright then! It's settled." Vibrant and enthusiastic again, Anna gives the reins a smack. "...Next stop, Rena!"

From now onward I have to concentrate on ensuring Edelgard's safety. There's no sense dwelling on what we shared; even if it was my first time.

Stepping out into the street, I take in a hearty mouthful of small-town air and run a hand through my damp black hair. Never before have I been more grateful to visit a bathhouse, and be provided a fresh white shirt and a pair of tailored black trousers. Having a simple shortsword sheathed at my hip is a godsend beyond words, too. Gifts from Anna for old times' sake; though I'm sure she'll have Edelgard pick up the tab later. Fodlan's most astute trader hasn't given anything free in the years I've known her. Well... except her love for my sister, but I wouldn't dare bring that up with her.

Leaning up beside the bathhouse door, arms folded, I wait for Edelgard to finish freshening up.

Nothing beats a cool breeze and a soothing orange sunset in my book. I've always felt more relaxed in the evening than during the day. It's been the same since I was a little kid, and I don't reckon it'll change anytime soon. Too many hours spent mulling over life back home between helping the family.

Rena seems like a nice enough town, all things considered. The folk here are polite and I get a real sense of community. Not like some of the larger towns of the Leicester Alliance. Kellworth: the biggest trading hub in the Goneril lands is a good example. Men and women are always rushing from pillar to post and market stall to market stall. The air is heavy with tension and there's a hostile sense about the place come nightfall. I've only visited twice before; had to go there with Pop to collect medicine for Ma. An experience I'll never forget; peddlers and ruffians aplenty.

But Rena? I could see myself visiting again between semesters at the monastery: provided we make it back in one piece, goddess willing. I might even bring Dorothea along for a short trip. There's a lovely tea house just westward of the town square. The pastry and cake selections in their window look fantastic, and the waft of chocolate's to die for. I'm guessing it's why the line leading from the door and down the street is so long.

Then there are the traders by the square. Stalls arranged in a neat ring, each shopkeep (lad and lassie alike) battles it out to attract the coin of customers.

"Two fresh fish for five silver; last offer before we close! Get your fresh fish here!" one man shouts.

"Bread baked fresh from our ovens! Grab yourself a loaf before they're all gone! Perfect with butter or jam! C'mon now!" a young girl calls out.

As busy as it is, I can't distract myself. Guarded and my mind working overtime, I close my eyes and shake my head.

While I haven't seen a chapel belonging to the Church of Seiros in the center of town, there's no telling just who might be listening.

Given my recent awakening to the unrest between Rhea's followers and the Western branch loyalists, I'm not gonna count out the potential for danger without good reason. We're only a town away from where we were held captive; about twenty or so miles, Anna explained to us. I'm betting more of Gregory's lunatics could be here come tomorrow morning if they rode through the night without rest. Wouldn't count it out, either.

That's not my only worry, either.

Gods I miss Dorothea. I hope she's safe and unharmed after our run-in with those bastards from the Western Church.

A hand taps my shoulder, snapping me from my doldrums.

"Is everything alright, Rolan?"

I look over to Edelgard. Having visited the bathhouse and furnished with fresh clothes (a long three-quarter red blouse with black trim and embroided white socks) she looks a damn sight better than when we first awoke bound in ropes. My lips raise into a small smile at the sight of her.

"Thinking is all... about Dorothea."

Edelgard rests a hand upon my shoulder. A subtle but welcome showing of support.

"I'm sure she's fine," the noble lassie assures in a surprisingly gentle voice. "It sounds as though she was able to escape unharmed; that your capture bought her the time she needed," Edelgard finishes at a whisper, mindful of the passers-by on the streets surrounding us. A safe move.

Placed at ease by my companion's warmth, I meet her smile with one of my own. "You might be right there. Well... I'm hoping so, at least."

"I am willing to believe as much. Dorothea is as intelligent as she is attractive and resourceful."

"You're right about that. Still... I can't help but worry, you know?"

"A sentiment I understand, Rolan. Rest assured."

Edelgard chuckles softly, her cheeks reddening a hint.

To say I'm caught off guard by the girl's softer side is still very much the case. "Something the matter?" I ask.

The future empress shifts her hand from my shoulder, linking the fingers of my left hand with hers. Squeezing my digits, she looks upon me kindly. "You're loyal as well as compassionate: two traits which seldom go hand-in-hand among highborn circles of Adrestia's royal capital. I must confess... I quite like it."

Color me surprised. A compliment I wasn't expecting from the usually guarded noble girl. "You do? No word of a lie?"

Edelgard leans close and leans her head against my shoulder. "A welcome change. I feel as though I've come to understand you in our short time together..."

"Makes two of us Lady-" I pause, careful not to blurt out Edelgard's identity. "...Marissa."

The name of Edelgard's nursemaid and dearest friend as a child; a tale shared with me during the bumpy cart ride. Its best I use a front while chatting out in public. While must don't know Edelgard by appearance, I'll bet there's hardly a person from the furthest northern mountains of Faerghus to the bustling cities of the Empire who hasn't heard of Adrestia's future ruler by name. The von Hresvelg legacy goes back hundreds of years; least that's what Pop told me one afternoon while we were baking; as far as her Great Grandfather Gaius von Hresvelg.

"There you two are!" Anna chimes from behind with the clacking of her heeled boots; chipper and cheerful as always.

Edelgard breaks away from me in a hurry, jolted from our shared moment of niceness.

Skidding to a stop to the side of us, the redhead merchant grins victoriously. "Good news! The inn across the square had rooms going spare." Her expression falls a fraction as she looks set to continue. "Bad news..." A small but nervous smile follows, Anna pausing.

My stomach dips at the mention of 'bad news'. Gods no. Can we skip negative crap for just one day?

With a stiff breath I find my voice. "There's bad news?"

Anna's uneasy smile is followed by an equally uneasy chuckle. "They only had two rooms left, meaning somebody's going to have to share."

"I'm fine sharing with Rolan," volunteers Edelgard with surprising haste. I swear there was an undertone of urgency to her voice, too.

Her willingness does not go unnoticed by Anna. "Are you sure?" she blinks. "I've no issue sharing with Rolan. I've been a friend of his family for years."

"I am quite certain," Edelgard confirms assertively.

Anna hums deeply, I dare think suspiciously. "...I'm not so sure it's a good idea; a lady sharing a room with her male classmate..."

"Rolan has ensured my safety thus far. I would rather he remain by my side as a precaution."

The hesitation fades from Anna's face at Edelgard's well-delivered reply.

"You have a point. And I suppose it would be safer if your unwanted friends return..." Exhaling Anna drops her reluctance, her cheerful expression returning. "Sorry about that, guys. And here I started thinking the craziest of things might happen if you two shared a room. Silly me!" Handing a well-polished copper key to Edelgard, Anna flashes a wink. "Right! I'd better be off; got important business partners to meet. I'll see you two in the morning, alright?"

Edelgard and I give Anna a nod in unison. "Later, Anna," I wave her off as she starts down the street, ducking and weaving between people.

Key slipped into her skirt pocket, Edelgard turns her focus to me. Her powerful blue eyes shine with seriousness, and just a glint of relief. "It is probably for the best that we depart for the inn now; before it gets dark. The sooner we are off the streets the safer it will be. Do you not agree?"

Given these Western Church folks aren't beyond attacking folks in alleyways, I'm not about to object. "Makes sense to me." Bowing politely, I let Edelgard take command of the situation, not that she needs much in the way of persuasion. It's in her nature as a noble. "Lead on, Miss Marissa."

My jaw hangs loose at the sight before me. "Look at the size of this place..."

I didn't imagine inns could be so flush. I've never seen one this fancy in my life. The main hall is opened wide with a polished oaken flooring. To the left of the bar is a long table stuffed to the brim with meats and breads and cheeses; the sort of buffet fancy folks enjoy. Behind it is a bar with a busty girl about the same age as Edelgard and myself pouring mugs of ale. The welcoming waft of food mingles with the scent of fresh lavender candles.

The sorts who are enjoying such grand hospitality are decked out in their finest waistcoats and trousers; frilly skirts or long velvet cloaks. Renting rooms here must've cost a pretty penny; the sort of money my family would heap out for a very special occasion once in a very long time. If I were to guess I'd say Anna is aiming to win favour with Edelgard on our shared travels. Sly as a fox, that girl is. Sly as a fox.

Stopping by the bar, Edelgard raises our room key to the girl serving drinks; a stout missy with puffed out, freckled cheeks and long auburn hair flowing down her back in waves. "We have room number four. Could you kindly tell us where it is?"

"Course, madam," the barmaid bows. "Go up the spiral staircase behind you and you'll arrive in a long corridor. It's the last one on the left."

"Thank you." Edelgard turns to me. "Shall we be off, Rolan?"

I lower my head politely. "Lead the way, Marissa."

"Erm... excuse me." The barmaid speaks up, reclaiming our attention. I look over to see her blushing like a rose, trembling hands clamped to her ample bosom. "I-I have a question. A-Are you two newlyweds? F-Forgive my asking but..." The barmaid grins widely. "The two of you make such a cute couple!"

Her question renders me speechless.

Edelgard is quick to grab me, linking her arm with mine and cuddling close. She wears a smile both gentle and precious. "What an astute guess. You're right." Playing to the barmaid's belief, Edelgard effortlessly slips into character. "We're visiting all the way from Enbarr. My darling heard about your inn from a travelling merchant and decided we just have to come here for our honeymoon." Edelgard looks to me with wide, trembling eyes. "Isn't that right, Rolan?"

An act so well-played I find myself joining in without so much as thinking. "Sure is. Only the best for my precious wife."

"Awwww!" The barmaid squeals, googly-eyed and adoring every moment of our performance. "Well if you two need anything don't hesitate to come see me. The buffet table will be open a couple of hours more, and we serve a simple breakfast of butter and pastries each morning at sunrise." She bows again. "You two have a lovely stay. I wish you both only the greatest of happiness."

"Oh I'm sure we'll have a wonderful evening." Leaning close, Edelgard pecks my cheek.

A move so sudden my breath silently hitches. Part of me wonders if it's an act. Even if it is, her flushed complexion gives me doubts.

Before I can wish the barmaid a good evening, Edelgard sets off, dragging me from the bar by the arm. Released from her hold just short of the upstairs leading staircase, I start upward with a spring in my step. The sooner we're out of sight the sooner we can be less mindful of our actions.

Again I'm awestruck by the luxuries of this inn. Mine and Edelgard's room is something else; wide and specious with a luxurious four-poster bed at the centre and a plush red velvet carpet underfoot. Across from the bed is an unlit fireplace. To the side of the bed is large widow. Opening its shutters reveals a maze-like network of narrow cobblestone side streets, Rena's townsfolk going about their business without a care.

Enjoying the fresh air for a second time today, I thank my lucky stars.

I hear Edelgard flopping down on the bed to the side of me with a grateful sigh. From the corner of my eye I watch her sprawl across the cotton sheets and kick off her shiny black shoes. That blouse really suits her; a sight I'll remember once this is over. It's nice to see her in something other than her uniform.

Warmed by her luster, I'm drawn again to the view outside. My thoughts returni to our little show downstairs.

Arms folded, my lips rise into a smirk. "That was some damn fine acting for the patrons, Edelgard. I wouldn't be surprised if they all bought it."

A pause from Edelgard; a deep sigh following. "An act... of course."

There's no missing the gloomy undertone to her voice.

Concerned for her, I step away from the window and sit down on the edge of the bed. "Something amiss?"

"Nothing worth troubling yourself over," Edelgard responds with a flare of irritation. "It's my issue; one I must contend with alone."

"So long as you're sure. There's still a ways for us to go before we reach Garreg Mach." I raise again from the bed, my eyes set upon the rocking chair sat just ahead of the fireplace. Figure I'll spark up a fire and warm the room some; it's a touch drafty. "Let me know if I can be of any-"

Before I can take the first step Edelgard grabs my wrist. I look back to find her gaze fixated upon me; her face a deep red and her ocean blue gaze trembling with feeling. With a second gentle squeeze she signals for me to stay put. "...It's about last night," she starts hesitantly. "What we did."

There's no sense mincing words on the whole situation. It is what it is, and emotions were running high for us both. Like Pop once said, I have to face the choices I make and be a man about them. "Our making love?" I force a shallow laugh to steel my nerve. "If you're having regrets I'll understand."

"...Not at all!" Edelgard replies with haste, her grip on my wrist tightening. "...It's quite the reverse, in fact."

Talk about a relief. "Glad to hear it, Princess." Staying strong, I fake a smile. My future belongs with Dorothea, even if respect Edelgard. "Like you said though, it was a one-time thing. I'll treasure the memory and move on. Come tomorrow it'll be like it never happened between us. Life goes on, right?"

"...I suppose that would be for the best, yes." Edelgard lets go, rolling onto her side and hugging her knees to her stomach. "I'm awfully tired. I think I'll nap."

I don't think I believe her. She's been off since we arrived in Rena; affectionate one moment and distant the next.

"You sure you'll be okay?"

"I'll be quite alright after some rest, yes."

My stomach growls and I feel faint all of the sudden; a signal if any I could use a bite to eat. It's been a long day travelling. Stepping away from the bed, I turn my focus on the door to our room. If Edelgard needs to rest I'll leave her in peace. I glance back once more out of consideration. "Sounds good. I'm heading down to the buffet table. Want me to grab you something? Haven't seen you eat a morsel since those biscuits when we arrived in town."

"Later, perhaps." Exhaling, Edelgard shuffles up the bed and lays her head against the pillows. "I appreciate the offer, all the same. You're kind as always."

Bowing my head, take a few backward steps to the door and reach for the handle. "No big deal. You rest up, Princess. Be back shortly."

"I'll await your return. Stay alert while you're alone, Rolan."

"Don't need to tell me twice."

"It's just a precaution. I don't want to see you hurt..."

Sword sheathed at my hip, I should be alright.

"Thank you, Edelgard."

Having helped myself to some fresh oatmeal bread and a few slices of sharp yellow cheese, I pick out a table in the furthest corner and get to enjoying my little feast. Seems like there are a fair few folks frequenting the inn besides myself and Edelgard. My eyes are especially drawn to a priest decked out in gray patchwork robes; emblazoned with the insignia of Seiros. I'll keep him under watch as subtly as I can. No telling if he's a follower of the Western Church or one of Rhea's followers. I have my doubts as to him being trustworthy regardless of which. Being beaten and abducted does that to a man.

Regardless, I'd rather be safe than sorry. Edelgard and I didn't escape from fanatics to be dragged off a second time.

If it came to a fight I imagine I could deal with the priest without issue. He's older; I'd say aged in his later fifties at the very least. His creased, wrinkled skin and thinning gray hair at the sides of his temples are tell-tale signs. He's alone too, no other buffet customers or inn guests sitting with him.

Between bites of buttered bread I make a routine of casting my eyes in his direction; a ritual the holy man has noticed so far. Good. Can't have him think something out of place. It's best I finish my food and return to Edelgard quickly. Leaving her alone has me uneasy; I'm her only line of protection.

Not that she can't defend herself. Watching her during the mock battle earlier in the school year was a real treat. She commands her classmates effortlessly. Who knows? Maybe it's why I've been so intent on keeping her safe while we've been stuck together. Maybe it's why I went as far as I did after we found refuge in the farmhouse yesterday. There's something captivating about her. It's her eyes. I could lose myself in them; they're oceans.

Damn I feel hot under the collar all of the sudden!

After fanning my face I look up from my plate. The Seiros priest hasn't moved from his spot; thank goodness.

Standing from my table, I deliver my plate to the bar and bow my head in appreciation to the serving girl.

"Did you enjoy your food, Mister Rolan?" she asks hopefully.

"Lovely, thanks. Best I've had in a while."

"It's our pleasure to serve! You and your wife enjoy the rest of your stay, and do recommend us to your friends once you're home in Enbarr."

"You can count on it. Have a good night, Miss."

I notice the Seiros priest's gaze shift in my direction from the corner of my eye as I head for the stairs.

Was the barmaid's mention of my having a wife what caught his interest?

Dammit. I need to calm down. The day has felt like a week; wouldn't be surprised if my mind is playing tricks on me at this point.

Relief soothes my nerves as I open the door. Edelgard is right where I hoped she'd be; curled up in a ball on top of the bed covers and fast asleep.

A pair of candles have been lit and placed upon the bedside dresser, and the window shutters have been closed.

Edelgard stirs in her sleep, likely because of my sudden bursting into the room. With a gentle groan she rubs her eyes and sits upright, squinting at me and looking groggy as all heck. "Rolan? What's the matter?" she yawns. "You're looking flustered. Is something amiss?"

My relief palpable, I close the door behind me and step inside. Walking across to the bed, I sit down beside Edelgard and sweep my arms around her shoulders, pulling her close to my chest. A move she doesn't reject; far from it. I feel her fingertips press into my back and she lays her head against my shoulder. Her warm breaths against my neck cause me shivers.

"Call me paranoid, but there's a priest of Seiros downstairs and I got kinda worried." Edging back from our embrace, I look into Edelgard's eyes; losing myself in them as I've become so fond of doing. Where I once saw coldness there's heat. Feeling kinda foolish for being so jumpy, I let go of the future empress and retreat a little, retreating across the bed. "Silly I know, but it's my responsibility to keep you safe."

Edelgard lunges; a blur of white. The next thing I know her palms are pressed to the sides of my face and her lips to mine. A moment she savors for just a fleeting moment before backing away; her cheeks red hot. The sincerity behind her gaze makes my heart skip a beat.

"Thank you..." Her words are quiet but warm; I daresay loving. "The longer I share your company, the more you prove your reliability through simple gestures." Her piece said, Edelgard falters; avoiding direct eye contact. "I'm beginning to believe I can truly depend upon you."

My heartbeat pounding and my hands trembling, I trace a finger over my lips. "...T-Think nothing of it."

"It doesn't have to end yet," Edelgard declares boldly, staring into her lap and scrunching the edges of her skirt in bunches. If she were any redder she'd light up the room like a lantern. "What we shared yesterday, I mean to say." She turns and faces me, her blue orbs watery with emotion. "...Just until we return the monastery; that's all I ask. Putting myself before my obligations is wonderful, as ashamed as I am to admit it."

A deep and thoughtful exhale leaves my mouth. I'm honor-bound as a Black Eagle to protect Edelgard, but I've promised myself to Dorothea. I haven't felt this conflicted since my first day at the monastery, when I was questioning myself; my right to be a student.

"I want to, don't get me wrong..."

"And yet you're hesitating," remarks Edelgard shortly.

"Because if we go any further-"

"There's no further for us to go. You've taken my purity, and I've taken yours. You and I are joined, Rolan. There is no going back."

I'm burning up, feeling clammy beneath my shirt. My heartbeat is heavy to the point of stifling my breathing. Staring into my lap, I bind my fingers and anxiously wring my hands. A habit I had as a kid that resurfaces from time to time.

"And what, might I ask, has you concerned?" Edelgard continues.

Keep it together, Rolan. Face her like a man; just as Pop said.

Eyes upward, I narrow my stare to reflect my seriousness.

"It's like you said in the barn; once and once only. I'm focusing on my obligations, like a proper swordsman should... so I don't get too attached."

"Because you fear falling in love with me, correct?"

Edelgard's bluntness is a damn hammer when you're not expecting it. "R-Right."

"I thought as much." Edelgard's lips fall into an arrangement of tragedy, her expression rainy and downcast. "Tell me, Rolan. Do you not think I realize that what we have here cannot last?" Breaching our gap, the noblewoman takes hold of my shoulders and leans nearer, our noses touching and her chest pressed to mine. "Because I am well aware. I merely wanted to enjoy what I have while I have it; to experience life as a normal woman for once. Is that wrong?"

The way she asks is painful. Hearing it stings.

"No, Edelgard. It's not; not at all."

"Then please," she speaks with desperation; heartache clear in her tone. "Do not deny me."

The softness of her plea sends my walls crumbling down. "...Only for tonight." A compromise on my part; for the sake of my future with Dorothea.

"One more night is all I could ask for," replies Edelgard tenderly, pulling me into a kiss powerful kiss by the collar of my shirt.

Our lips entwined, I gently push the noblewoman upon the sheets, deepening our embrace. My hand trails downward to Edelgard's vest top. Lifting the fabric, I caress the soft, pale skin of her tummy. A soft approving moan echoes into me through our entwined lips.

One more night; and only one. Come morning, our journey to Garreg Mach will resume.

No sooner than my fingertips reach the waistband of Edelgard's undergarments, is there a knock at the door.

I pause; As does my house leader. Torn between passion and unrest, my hand other hand finds my sword's hilt.

"...Goodnight you two!" shouts Anna from the hallway. "Sleep well."

"Night Anna," I reply halfheartedly, anxiousness fading.

The lady merchant's footsteps trail off down the hall.

Edelgard laughs softly from beneath me.

I start laughing too.

Seconds tick on. Our amusement dies down, and our passions cool.

Edelgard is looking into my eyes with compassion; her lips raised into a tiny smile.

"...I shall treasure this time of ours, Rolan... Truly I will."

"Same here, Princess."

Inching nearer, Edelgard coils her arms around my shoulders and draws me to her chest.

Entangled atop the bedsheets with her, I shut my eyes and bask in the melody of her beating heart.

Thump-thump. Thump-thump. Thump-thump.

I'm as delighted as I am sad; because I was wrong about Adrestia's future empress.

Behind the stern and unbending persona of a ruler waits a truly wonderful person, and it's a damn shame she's never allowed to show her true colors.

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. As always, keep on supporting Fire Emblem and I'll see you in the next chapter! Thanks again!