Shattered Songs of Faith

by Sakura108645

Now, one does not expect to wake up in another body when they die. She did not expect to come to such a world that she had only read and played through technology. What's more, that she wakes up as Female Byleth during her childhood days. "Come and see the world in different ways from the River of Time before it all shatters away!" (SI OC) (AU)

36. Chapter 35:White Clouds:Part 1:Reunion

- 4 Years Later: Lone Moon: March 16th: 1180 -

"Siiighhhhhhh...Down the road we go~ To hell, we go." How many years has it been since going to a place he wasn't exactly sure he would be welcomed; let alone also he was an outsider?

How many years has it been since that day he witnessed something he should have not seen? How many years has it been since he has spoken to these three? The three that treated him like an equal. The three that saw him for who he is? The three…...that did not hate him.

"Cut it out, Claude...I'm not excited either..." he heard the timid voice of his retainer and looked over to the young girl with dark black hair cut a bit short, brown colored eyes, she wore a checkered pattern shirt with the mid-chest opened.

On her right arm she wore armor to protect, she wore dark green baggy pants, brown boots that looked like they were strapped on. On her head, she wore a gold chain with a feather with green tips. He has grown much over the years also. He was much taller, his hair had become spikier and there was no denying it, his list of schemes has grown! But he had a different purpose for why he was going to the Academy.

"Now Noire," he gave the girl a small smile, "I'm only joking. Besides, I think you'll like it. Somehow I feel you and Bernadetta will get along." He said and the girl shook her head.

"I feel and I know we were both forced to go to the Academy! Why did mother have to make me go?!" She wept and Claude felt like jumping out of the wagon, till he noticed a certain talisman in her purse.

"Didn't your mother say not to bring that thing with you?" He said and the girl scrambled to hide it deeper in her purse.

The boy sighs as he looked out the carriage window, the view of the forest and mountains always brought him a sense of serenity. Oh goddess, help him. He investigated his bag and pulled out his book he brought, The Adventures of Sinbad. He couldn't help but let a small smile come on his lips as he opened it to the first page. There clipped on, was a picture of his childhood days. The girl Arisa with a big grin with what she calls a peace sign, Amir with a smug grin as she held her axe proudly in the air, his arm slung over Alexandra's shoulder with a cheeky grin, the girl who had wide eyes, her ears red, her feathers fluttering rapidly as Falco looked like he was hissing at him.

"I have never seen you with such a tender smile." His train of thought was broken as he heard Noire's voice.

"What do you mean?" He quickly put back on his smile and she looked at him sadly.

"Well...I know it's not my place to say this, but your smile never reaches your eyes. It's like you put on a mask..." the girl said timidly.

Claude's smile remained but it disappeared with confusion as the two looked out, hearing giggling.

"Haha. It's a couple of ariels and woolly bugs." He said as they saw the group of fae flying around in the grassy fields, "By the way, when we get to the Academy, you might want to make a run to your room. Hilda has a new dress she wants you to try." He couldn't help but snicker as he saw dread befall the archer.

- At the Academy-

"Can you believe it! Twin leaders! Aahhhh! The fact that you and I have been made twin leaders?!" Dressed in her blue Officer Academy uniform that was the same as her older brother's but made for a female, Lestia spun around happily next to her brother's bed.

Her hair was pulled into a high ponytail, showing how curly it was, her bangs covered her forehead and stopped just a bit below her eyebrows. She wore blue gems earnings as she stopped when she felt a small nudge on her thigh, seeing it was Hessian, who was a grown teen wolf, but he was huge!

"I'm more surprised that we both have been made House Leaders. I think the staff gave up on deciding because we kept tying in our test scores." Dimitri said as he turned to her.

He had grown quite a bit. If one were to say who was the perfect knight, Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd always came to mind. Lestia snickered as she sat down on his bed, but quickly caught his clothing that nearly fell on the floor. But she raised an eyebrow as she noticed a familiar scarf.

"I did not think you still had this." She said and Dimitri was silent as the girl smiled softly, "Still haven't let go huh? But hey, you'll be legal in a couple of months!" She snickered and he quickly took the scarf away from her.

"Please do not tease me about it. I already suffered enough from Sylvian." He said and his sister just shrugged.

"Right. Anyhow, I'm going back to my room. I wonder if Sadi and Dedue have found the greenhouse? Dedue wanted to teach her how to take care of a few flowers." She stood up and headed to the door, "By the way, " she smirked as she looked back, "try to moan out so loud the Professor's name. The walls are thin." She said.

"LESTIA!" He roared and the girl cackled as she ran out the door, slamming it shut.

Dimitri let go of a sigh as he slumped on his bed, Hessian walking up to him, nuzzling his cheek.

"Sigh...I swear...Lestia is unbelievable at times." He said as the two looked at each other, "But I cannot deny my feelings for Arisa I still have. One day we may meet her again." He said.

How he wished he could see the beautiful fairy of the forest once more.

- Second Floor: To Edelgard's room -

Hey, heard the news you got into the Academy! Ahhhh! The good old days were sometimes I would ditch and then one time, I got caught by Seteth unfortunately. That lecture lasted for 2 hours. By the way, do not follow my example on that. Go to class and do not skip any! If you aren't feeling well, and want some space alone, there is a secret passageway in room 23, behind the mirror. That used to be my room. It leads to a beautiful garden out in the forest, away from the Academy. Perfect place to sleep. If you find a wooden box behind a bush (hopefully it is still there) it's filled with a couple of candies. A spell is placed on the box making it completely weather, earthquakes, flood-proof. A few of your favorite candies are in there. Ah! Got to go, unfortunately. My job is near Enbarr.

Take care sis: Love Chris

4 years it has been, and it was always painful. She wishes she could respond back but unfortunately, she cannot. However, she had never been able to bring herself to burn the letters her brother has sent her and has them safely stored away in a wooden box. At times, he sends her small trinkets, dried flowers, or a charm. Telling her about the job as a mercenary he now has. Edelgard could not help but chuckle at times at the hilarious stories he would write to her. Surprisingly, room 23 on the second floor was her room. She looked at the mirror where the passageway was, and sure enough, it was there. She carefully closed it back. She headed to her drawer, where she took out her treasure box, unlocked it, placing the letter inside the hiding it. She smiled softly and was about to close her drawer gently when...

SLAM!

"HEEEELLLOOOOOOOOO ELLL!"

Edelgard slammed her drawer closed and turned around quickly, Lestia slammed the door to her room open, with arms in the air, a wide grin on her face as she skipped happily to the unfortunately 5'2 ft girl. Lestia was 5'5ft tall.

"Hello, Lestia." Edelgard grumbled, "How not happy I am to see you again." She crossed her arms and Lestia pouted.

"I'm hurt El." Lestia said but sat on Edelgard's bed, crossing her legs, "Anyhow, I got the news. A little birdy told me you have been trying to track down a specific group of mercenaries." She said and Edelgard twitched.

"I don't know what you are talking about," Edelgard said and Lestia smiled.

Where's Hubert when you need him!? The blonde girl lazily closed her eyes and spoke.

"Story has it that when the battlefield turns bloodily, voidless eyes will look down at you, taking your life. The eyes of demons whose hair is teal like ash. The Ashen Demon shows no mercy as she cuts down her enemies." She said and Edelgard stiffened, "Yet despite the eyes of ash, she says a prayer to the unfortunate soul before the blade gave them a painless death. Besides her is the one whose eyes are like crimson, yet her blade of ice is like a scythe, the Queen of Ice has arrived. Besides the two, black thunder crashes down to the ground, incinerating all in its wake, the shadows dance as the whisper of their master, The Thunder Hammer. Lastly, he whose fist is stronger than steel, his very fist said to break all weapons, The Executioner. Ufufufufu~" Lestia snickered.

"Where did you learn this?" Edelgard said with narrowed eyes to her stepsister, who just smiled.

"I got my ways too. Your retainer isn't the only one to blend with the shadows." Lestia said back.

"Is that so?" Edelgard smiled, "I am no fool Lestia. You want something. You have always been like this. After all, your words are "There is a price for all things in life." So, what do you want?" She said and Lestia frowned.

"Truth to be told...sigh...things just haven't been the same." She said and looked up to the ceiling, "We already got enough to deal with the strained relationship with the Church as well as my uncle's rule. It's stable but many are still suffering." She said.

"Is this about the church official that..." Edelgard knew what she was talking about.

"I don't have a grudge against the Church, but Dimitri is a different story. He wasn't exactly happy coming here but..." she went silent remembering she overheard the private conversation between her brothers.

"I'm going for revenge."

She shivered remembering their first maiden battle, the look that befell her brother's face as she cut down his opponent's. How he slaughtered them. Hessian right beside him, also killing humans.

"Lestia?" Edelgard said and the princess shook her head.

"I'm alright. Anyhow," she stood up and dusted herself, "I came here to ask if you wanted to come joins me and the girls for tea? Since it's the first day and everyone is unpacking, we thought a tea party for everyone would be nice." She said.

"Oh." Edelgard blinked, "Thank you for the invitation but I must decline for now. I need to get my room finished also...if you happen to see Hubert with Henry, please separate them." She said.

"Believe me, even I'm terrified when those two are together also." Both females shivered as Lestia went out to her door, "I'm glad to see you El. Maybe we can hang out sometime or train like back then." Lestia smiled and left.

Edelgard sighs and muttered softly, painfully, and sad voice.

"Unfortunately, I am not here to make friends. "

[-]

"WHHHHHAAAAAA! PUT ME DOWN!"

And a poor knight was sent flying out of Bernadetta's room, along with the other knight that was carrying her, both sent flying out like if they were sacks of potatoes. Even worse landing on top of each other with a loud CLANK!

"Oooooohhh! That's got to hurt." Claude winced as he and many others watched the knights get tossed like ragged dolls, the door to Bernadetta's room slammed shut.

The poor knights that got thrown out were struggling to get up, groaning in pain as their other fellow knights came to help them. Sometimes Claude questioned if it was a good idea to wear so much armor because, at times, you come out even more hurt.

"Well if isn't Claude?" And he instantly whipped out his charming smile as he heard the familiar voice of a certain princess, as saw her walking towards him, and...who?

Sun-kissed tan skin, light silver-colored hair that was knee length yet curls, slightly droopy dark blue eyes, and wearing the Officer's Academy uniform, like a beautiful doll. Even a bit of makeup she wore, plus the boots reached her knees!

"Don't let Dedue catch staring at his sister with those eyes," Lestia said as she saw Sadi blink, and circle him, looking at him up and down.

"Umm...Lestia, who is this?" Claude said and Noire looked over his shoulder and grinned.

"Sadi!" The girl smiled as the one called Sadi smiled back and spread her arms.

"Noooiiireeeeee~" Sadi spoke in a lazy soft voice as the two hugged.

"Why do I suddenly feel left out?" Claude said as the two 15 years left to talk.

"Oh, let them be. They were childhood friends before hell came." She said referring to the Tragedy of Duscur.

"Anyhow," Claude said turning to her, "I see you have the leader pin. So, you're house leader for the Blue Lions then?" He asked.

"Both Dimitri and I are house leaders." She said.

"Huh...? I didn't think the Church allowed Twins House leaders. Then again, you guys have close ties." He said and Lestia blinked.

"Wait, you don't know?" She said and he blinked.

"What don't I know?" He said as she motioned him to follow her to behind the crates.

"Are you kidding me?!" Lestia hissed, "You seriously do not know?!" She said.

"Just tell me already," Claude said back, clearly annoyed.

"4 years ago, someone from the church attacked Arisa in front of Dimitri and the others! From what he has told me, they tried to force her to drink something, but Dimitri managed to stop them on time, wounding them greatly. Literally cut off their left hand!" She said and his eyes went wide.

"Wait seriously? Whoa...I...did not think he was capable of that..." Claude said as he rubbed the back of his neck, " But...hearing that the Professor was attacked...just what did that official want?" He muttered as the two went back to the hallway.

"Whatever happened, I only know a bit because I managed to get some information out of Dedue." Lestia sighs, "Anyhow, there's going to be a tea party later in the dining hallway to welcome the students for the new school year. Orientation is tomorrow where we'll be receiving our leader capes. Dimitri on his right and me on the left." She said as they began to walk.

"Welp, after orientation is over, how about we go have some fun? I heard you developed a new poison?" He said with a sly smirk and Lestia had the same.

"Oooooooohohohoho! You bet I did!" She cackled and those around shivered at the duo.

[-]

"So, this is the Blue Lion's Classroom? I must say, I am very impressed by how big it is." Blonde long hair tied in a loose braid, dark green eyes scanned the classroom, looking at the desk.

The young woman wore her Academy uniform in pristine condition as she looked over to her friend, who had bags under his eyes, slightly pale skin because he rarely goes out to the sun, light pale blue hair dark brown eyes, and wore the male version of the uniform she wore except it was the summer version, which was a brown button-up with white sleeves and loose pants.

"Please tell me where the far-est desk is from the window...I'm not liking the heat..." the boy said.

"Dwyer, you'll live. Besides, I think some sunlight would do you good." She smiled and Dwyer shook his head.

"Easy for you to say, Ingrid. I'm from the Ice Tribe! The heat is our enemy and I'm not about to deal with those of the other tribes." Dwyer said he went to sit down at a corner while Ingrid shook her head.

"Oh. I must say, quite big."

Ingrid turned and frowned as she saw Sadi come in, the Duscurian girl spun around slowly as she spoke in her usual soft and lazy tone.

"It's so biiiiggggg~ Oooohhh! The shadows say they approve~" she cooed and spotted Ingrid.

"Innngggrrriiidddd~ Good to see you!" She floated over to her, "I sense Dwyer too~ It looks like he's passed out." She said as she light swung her feet.

"Hello, Sadi." Ingrid said coldly as the 15-year-old only grinned at her.

"Same same! Say, has Feli (Felix) and Sylvi (Sylvian) come yet? Sylvi promised me he showed me how to use a lance! My main goal is to pass the Valkyrie exam!" Sadi said as she floated around the older girl.

"Unfortunately, they have not arrived. For now, I suggest you search for someone else to teach you. If Dedue learns that Sylvian is teaching you, he isn't exactly going to be happy." Ingrid sighs as the girl stopped and was laying down in the air, looking at her upside down.

"It's alright~ I'm sure big brother will be okay with it (Ingrid: No, he would not.). But the way, I heard we are having a new face join the Blue Lions. They are a member from House Zoltras." She said and Dwyer spoke, scaring the girl, making her fall with a loud thud onto the floor.

"Owwwiiieee!" Sadi said and pouted as she was flat on her back, Ingrid had to cover her mouth from snickering.

"Sorry..." Dwyer said, "It's been 25 years since someone from House Zoltras has attended the Academy. Emily never came here but...who of House Zoltras would come?" He said.

"Hmmm...I guess this is my class then?"

The group turned and Ingrid's eyes went wide as her eyes landed on the young girl with pure white hair that faded to a pastel purple, light pink eyes and wore the female uniform. The girl froze when Ingrid's eye widened, recognizing her immediately despite all these years that have passed.

"L-Lysithea?!" Ingrid yelled out and the said girl simply smiled and waved.

"Hello, there you three." Lysithea smiled warmly, "I see everyone is settling in." She said.

"How are you alive? 4 years ago...the..." Dwyer could barely choke out.

"Yes. I know. I was the only survivor. I managed to escape, and Emily took me in. I am now a member of House Zoltras." Lysithea said so casually and before the others spoke, Felix and Sylvain came in.

"Hey everyone! Sadi, beautiful as ever." Sylvain sent a wink to the girl who floated over to him with a grin.

"Feli! Sylvi! Welcome home!" The girl said in her usual tone and Felix pinched the bridge of his nose at the nickname she gave him, and Sylvain's smile seems to just grow.

"Oh! Sadi, I may just marry you!" Sylvain said and her face then turned to something no one ever saw.

"Ew no." She scrunched up her nose, "I don't want to marry you. You're like a brother to me." She said and Ingrid was trying to keep her laughter hidden along with the rest, Felix had a smirk, while Sylvain looked betrayed.

"Aww! Sadi don't be like that!" Sylvain said and Sadi frowns, which was extremely rare.

"Do you want me to scream?"

"No,no,no,no,no!" Everyone began yelling out instantly, even Lysithea as she ran up to her friend.

"Now now Sadi!" Lysithea said with a crooked grin, "Why don't we head to the garden where the tea party is being held? I heard there are hazelnut candies as well as cake! Come! We cannot miss the divine gifts of sweets!" She said and Sadi had back her lazy smile she always has.

"Ooookkkaaayyy~~~ Sweet, Sweet caramel here we gooooo~" she cooed softly as the two females left the room.

Everyone let go a sigh of relief till the door slammed open again, this time it was Lestia, who was looking around.

"I could have sworn Annie and Mercie were here..." she said.

"Your Highness! Please stop slamming doors open!" Ingrid said and Lestia shrugged her shoulders and left.

"I swear that woman..." Felix groans as Sylvian shook his head.

"She hasn't gotten rid of that habit and I doubt she ever will," Sylvian said.

So much for peace.

[-]

Edelgard did not know how to deal with certain things, and even more when...

"RAAAAAAATTTTT!" A good portion of the females screamed for their lives when a young man with silver-colored hair, a strange weird cloak, had a closed eye smile as his pet rat sat peacefully on his shoulder.

Even Edelgard back away, absolutely mortified at the yet deadly creature on Henry's shoulder. The tea party was supposed to be peaceful, not a playground!

"Now now ladies!" He said cheerfully, "Gi doesn't bite. He's quite helpful and loves it when you pet him." He motioned the rat called Gi towards Dorothea, who began backing away.

"Henry, enough," Hubert said with a cold tone, and the boy just ignored him.

"Hey, you."

Henry turned and raised an eyebrow at the tan girl that began walking towards him, Lysithea desperately trying to stop her, while Hubert raised an eyebrow.

"Do you want me to scream? You're being mean to the girls. Stop it." Sadi said and Lysithea desperately tried to push her back.

"S-Sadi, there is no need for you to do such a thing!" The girl said and Henry smirked.

"And what happens if I don't?" He mocked her and Sadi smile.

"Ahhhhhh...ah...AAAHHHHH!" She screamed.

Everyone noticed the shift in the air as even the birds went silent, and began flying towards the girl, surrounding her, that even Hubert took a step back.

"The shadows say stooopppp~ Or should call forth more of my friends?" Sadi giggled, but her smile suddenly dropped, her head whipping to the sky.

She went silent staring with wide eyes as the birds flew away, confusing falling on many till Edelgard spoke.

"Sadi, is everything alright?" Edelgard said concern as the girl took slow steps.

Sadi felt it. A shift in the shadows. The shadows were singing. They were singing in joy. They were happy. Something was happening then she felt. A single click and her voice loud as she yelled out a name with pure joy.

"AAMMMMMMIIIIRRRRRRRR! WELCOME HHHHHOOOMMME!

The second she screamed out, Dedue along with the rest of the Blue Lions bolted to the garden, worried that Sadi may have summoned a Sand Crawler once again by accident but that wasn't it. Edelgard looked at her with wide eyes as the girl was laughing happily as she spun around, running to them.

"Amir is home! Amir is home! That means Arisa is home! Yay!" She said and ran off to who knows where.

Edelgard was frozen on the spot hearing the two familiar names as Dorothea.

"Does...she has a-!" And that train of thought was instantly cut when she felt something land on her head.

It was Gi.

Edelgard froze on the spot as she felt the little creature crawl in circles around her head, many watching, mortified as she began shaking, his lips quivering and then a full-blown scream as the little rat nuzzled her head. To this day, it said the Edelgard's screams surpass the roar of a dragon. Henry was a laughing mess as thus all went down, while he completely ignored the look that Hubert was giving him, ready to murder him on the spot. Thankfully, Ashe was kind enough to remove the little one off the princess's head.

- Unknown Location -

"In time flows...see the glow...of flames ever burning bright..."

Maybe it wasn't the best place to sing but it felt right. Her friend was fast asleep on a tree, waiting for her brother to return, while she manifested herself to get a little air. It has been a long time since she has felt the emotions of humanity, to understand them and such. Looking back to the fragments of memories she has recovered from the past, in a way, she understood her own mistakes also.

"Hmmmmmmm..." the goddess turned as she shifted to a much more matured form as she saw her friend shift a bit.

It was strange at first but as the years gone by and her friend aged, she aged also. Though compared to her friend, she could shift between her adult form and child form easily. Right now, as her adult form, her long emerald green hair nearly touched the ground, was straight, her bangs stopped a little bit below her eyebrows, her elongated ears made her look majestic as well as her flower crown. She wore a pure white long dress with gold stitches and patterns, that displayed her curves but was also in a Holy way. Her dress' sleeves were a bit puffed as she also had a hood on her dress. The goddess smiled warmly as she floated down, seeing her friend slowly flutter open her eyes, smiling softly once she saw her.

"Did I fall asleep?" Her friend said.

She was dressed in a green cloak that she currently had closed, covered from head to toe her appearance as well as her clothing. Only her hood showed a part of her face but still covered her facial features, the shadows covering her eyes. The goddess smiled warmly as she hugged her friend from behind like usual, rubbing her cheek with her own. If a normal person saw this, they would believe they were lovers, but that was not the case. For the goddess cannot be seen by the eyes of a mere mortal, except a specific few that she has allowed, safe for the brother of her friend who was born with the ability to see spirits.

"You did." The goddess said softly, "But it's a rest you needed. Your brother should be here in a bit. Both of you were going to sneak into the underground black market. I do wonder why?" She thought out loud.

"He said he wants to introduce us to a possible ally but sometimes I wonder how much he is hiding from me. Can't blame him though. I have my secrets too." The girl slowly stood up, "Anyhow, this job is me and him. We'll be meeting back with the others at Remire Village in two weeks. So, I'll enjoy myself here at Enbarr in a bit. I do feel a bit bad for Amir and Alexandra. Amir is with Sandy at a job near Fodlan's Throat and Alexandra is with Florencio at a job near the Keilman mountains." As she began walking at the bit.

"I know they are well. I do wish we could have brought Blanca with us but alas, she will bring too much attention along with Red Hare, both of who had to be left back at home." The goddess said with a slight giggle as she reverted to her child form.

"I'm sure they are alright Sothis." Her friend said, "Blanca has grown into an excellent wolf. Nuke has taught her well." She said.

The name of the Goddess is Sothis, a name lost in time except for those with ancient souls that remember her name. Sothis smiled warmly to her friend as they heard footsteps approaching. This person was a male, who also wore a cloak that covered his appearance completely, and perched on his shoulder was a snowy owl and a brown eagle.

"I'm back sis." He smirked and she chuckled.

"Took you awhile Christian. So, where exactly are we heading to?" She said as the snowy owl flew to her and perched herself on her shoulder.

The male known as Christian smirked at her as the two walked beside each other, Sothis looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

"Arisa, make sure to keep your hood on." He said because he knows how those of the black-market target those who are beautiful.

The one known as Arisa gave him a soft smile before she spoke.

"You know I can handle myself. Besides," she lifted her hand a bit and moved her sleeves, revealing dark green gloves like gauntlets with a ying and yang stone on it, they looked like it was covered in scales, "I got these." She smirked.

He chuckled as they walked for at least another half hour through the city of Enbarr till they reached the alleyways, to the red district area. It wasn't a surprise that cities such as these had their place where humans sinned in pleasure. The Alliance and Kingdom had their own too. The scent of alcohol, men, and women laughing. Those gambling and such. Sothis shook her head as she looked around, knowing well how humans can be but sometimes she wonders how things could have been if the Agarthans did not descend to madness/greed and began to think of themselves as gods? Could there have been peace? It was possible. Cirina's mother and her daughter's husband were Agarthans that lived peacefully with her children. She made herself disappear as the siblings arrived at a wooden door, Christian knocked on it three times, a small brick size opening on the door opened, only eyes could be seen.

"6-5-0-1-8" Christian said the person behind the door silent and slid the small opening closed.

Multiple locks were heard unlocking and the door opened; the man smirked at her brother.

"Well, didn't think you are back. So, here for the prize that will be up for sale?" The man said as he let them in.

"Depending on what it is," Christian smirked as the two looked around.

Men and women drinking gambling, some even speaking to each other till the two reached a table where a young man with short purple hair, purple colored eyes, light peach skin, he wore a bit of makeup and dark gray clothing of the trickster class. If she hadn't looked closer, she would have thought the young man was a woman, but he looked about the same age as her. He was talking to an older man with a more rugged look, spiky black hair, light brown colored eyes, and wore the clothing of a war monk. She had to admit, he was muscular and heard Sothis purr in her mind. The young man noticed them and turned to her brother.

"You're late Christian. I thought you were better. Trying to break my trust already?" The purple-haired one said with a slight smirk as her brother removed his hood.

His tone remained Arisa of Claude but a little bit more sinister for some reason. Christian was 5'8 ft, had grown quite a bit, his white hair was still spiky, he wore his eyepatch on his right eye, and looked more mature.

He chuckled as he shook his head.

"Now Yuri, you think I'm late?" He said as he pointed to the clock and he made it on time by one minute.

"Tch," Yuri said and the man next to him laughed.

"No worries Christian! Anyhow, who's your friend? I can tell that's a woman." The older man sent her a wink and she gave him a small smile.

Yuri raised an eyebrow as he noticed the light tint of green lipstick on her lips.

"Hey, hey, hey." Christian stretched his arm, "Watch it Balthus, this is my sister." He said defensively.

"Why would you bring your sister here?" Yuri said as he looked over to her and Feh hissed at him.

"Were both mercenaries, Yuri. Besides, she's interested in what they are selling today." He said and Yuri nodded.

"Aren't you going to introduce us?" Balthus said and her smile grew a bit as she tilted her head a bit.

"Oh? What do you want to talk about?" She spoke and the two men seemed caught off guard a bit by her soft voice.

"Well, I suppose by maybe letting us see how you look? I usually don't trust everyone I meet, why not get to know each other? You sound like you're the same age as me." Yuri gave her a charming smile that reminded her of Claude.

"He's a schemer, I can tell. The smile does not reach his eyes." Sothis said in her mind.

"Hmmm...alright," Arisa said and her brother looked at her worried.

"Are you sure?" He said and she nodded.

The three men watched the female remove her hood and Yuri and Balthus felt their throat go dry at the sight of the beauty before them that was revealed. Arisa giggled a bit as her forest eyes held a playful glint as she put her index finger on Balthus's chest.

"Happy now sweetheart?" She said playfully and Christian instantly separated them.

"And now you stay away from my sister." Christian glared at the two men, who were still frozen.

"Christian..." Balthus said lowly, "How could you hide that your sister was this hot?!" And that instantly got the man a dagger at his neck.

"I don't exactly like people looking at my sister for reasons. And to be grateful it was her who burned to ashes the job request for your head. It was a bit hard hiding it from our father." Christian growled while Balthus looked like a hurt puppy.

"Chris..." Arisa growled, "I told you many times I can handle myself. Besides, " she smirked, "I think Amir would like him more than me." She chuckled as she sent Balthus a small smile, before putting back her hood on.

"Quite the lovely lady I must admit, but beauty won't earn you my trust." Yuri smiled and she spoke.

"I know. But that smile you wear does not earn my trust either. A smile that does not truly reach the eyes is one of a hollow. You're afraid." She said and Yuri kept his smile as she continued to speak, "But I can't blame you for it. There are things even I'm afraid of. I admit I can be a sly bitch at times but only when necessary. We all have something we wish to protect." She smiled sadly as her eyes looked down to the ground, Yuri let out a small chuckle.

"We only just met yet the look in your eyes says you are wiser than your years. Not bad I admit." he smiled, and it caught her a bit off guard as he lifted her chin, "I like you. I think you and I will get along just fine." He smiled and while Arisa was blinking.

"O-Oh! I-I-I-I... thank you." She looked away from him and he chuckled a bit,

Far away at the Officers Academy, Dimitri and Edelgard felt a shiver and angry for some reason. Arisa coughed while Yuri was enjoying the look of murder Christian was giving him and Balthus could not help but laugh.

"Save it for later you three! The auction is going to start." He said and the three nodded as everyone turned to look to the stage, where a man dressed as a mage with a plague doctor mask was, the light shining on him.

"All those participating in the action, make sure to respect the rules!" He yelled out as a rolling table was brought out, on it was a few weapons, "We shall start with weapons of dark magic! 2 silver is the starting point." He said.

Different prices yelled out and Arisa was silent as she watched the show go on. Yuri and Christian had to stop Balthus multiple times from bidding since the man was pretty much broke. Arisa didn't know much about Balthus and Yuri, compared to her brother who knew more about them because of their previous life. He was alive when a certain DLC came out and he won't tell her shit about it! It ticked her off! Her attention turned back to the crowd, where a fight had to be broken up between two nobles over a damn art piece that was stolen from the church. She was bored and this went on for the next two hours. But there was a reason she was waiting.

"Our final product! A rarity of a kind!" The mage yelled out and in a puff of smoke, appeared cage and inside was...

"Oh no..." Arisa said as she slowly stood up, Yuri looking her confused as his eyes widened at what was inside the cage.

"A rare boy of the kitsune clan! Starting with 1 gold!" The mage yelled out.

The young boy looked about the same age as Kaimu. He had light brown hair, red-colored eyes, the ears of a fox, and a tail. Balthus looked over to Chris, who nodded, the two knew that look and Arisa was gritting her teeth.

"5 gold!" Woman yelled.

"10 gold!" A man yelled.

"15!" Another yelled.

"50 gold coins!" Another man yelled many gasped at such a dare.

"50 gold coins, going once, going twice, going the-!" He did not finish.

"150 GOLD COINS!"

Never had a group of people whipped their heads so fast to a person that yelled out the amount of gold.

"Arisa what are you doing?!" Christian hissed at her while Arisa's glare went cold at him.

"Saving the child." She spoke coldly as she turned her back to the mage, many had their jaw hanging including Yuri and Balthus.

"Going...once...going..twice...three times...SOLD! To the lady!" The mage said many were muttering as Arisa took out a bag of gold coins.

"Excuse, where did you get that money?" Christian hissed she stood up to head to the back to pay.

"Back when I was Kiana Kalsana." Arisa answered, her back facing him.

Yuri's eyes went wide at the mention of the familiar name that was well known among commoners and nobles alike. A small smirk came on his face as he turned to his friend, who was trying to remember the name she just said.

"You didn't tell me your sister was "that" Holy Magus." Yuri said as Christian gave him a dry state.

"I don't need to tell you squawk about my sister. But seriously..." Christian narrowed his eyes as he noticed the look Yuri had, a glint that he had seen that only schemers have, "don't you dare plan on using her." He snarled.

Yuri just smiled at him while Balthus was shaking his head as Arisa came back, holding a bundle in her arms. The two Ashen Wolves could not help but stare at the tender look the woman had as she was looking at the sleeping boy in her arms, free of chains, safe and sound in her arms.

"Let's go, Chris. Our job is done." She with a warm smile as she began heading to the door.

"Wait, the reason she came was to save the boy?" Balthus said as they followed behind her.

"Yeah...there was a job request that a slave trader kidnapped a child from one of the native tribes. We killed the kidnapper already but unfortunately the child had been sold. Arisa has been trying to track down the child for many days, and thankfully, it proved well." Christian explained as they arrived at the forest, where she turned to them.

"As much as we wish to take the boy to his home, we learned that his parents didn't survive. So, I'll be taking him in." She said and Chris smiled at her sadly.

"I think he'll fit right in. Besides, I think the new kid in the village is good. Kaimu could use another friend." He said and she nodded.

"Ah, so heading back to your village then? Say hi to your wife for me." Balthus said and Christian looked ready to punch him.

"Gina has been very tempted to use Dark Spikes on you." He said and Yuri could not help but laugh a bit at the comment.

"Well then," he walked up to Arisa, "I do hope we meet again. Perhaps it was fate that we had this meeting." He said and Sothis scoffed.

"He's trying to flirt with you." The goddess said and the girl giggled.

"Maybe one day boy (Yuri: I am not a child.)." She said, "But...maybe you can help me with something." She said.

"Oh?" Yuri raised an eyebrow at her, "Is it a job request? I hope there's good pay." He said and she shook her head.

"Now worries, it's nothing dirty. The request is actually for a book." Arisa said.

"So, you wish to enter Abyss to read the books from the library then?" Balthus chuckled, "Honestly, we wouldn't mind. A lot of those books were sent down there by the Advisor of The Archbishop. The guy needs to loosen up at some point. Yesh." Yuri said.

"Well, that's expected of Seteth." Arisa muttered and let go of a sigh.

"Anyhow, it was nice meeting you both. Maybe we can hang out again at some point?" She said and Balthus smirked.

"You're welcome to come to check out the King of Grappling anytime. By the way, I train shirtless so you could have a better view." He winked at her and Arisa could not help but burst out laughing while Chris and Yuri shook their heads.

"Almost forgot," Arisa said as she handed Yuri a box that had a decent amount of weight.

"What's this?" Yuri said, confused till he noticed the scent of herbs.

"Medicine. My brother told me a bit about the people of Abyss. This should help the people that are sick. I wish I could go myself right now to treat the sick and injured but unfortunately, we can't." She smiled sadly as Balthus investigated it.

"These medicines...did you make these?" He said and she nodded.

"I did. And no payment is needed. Make sure to distribute them properly. I also have instructions in there and what each medicine does as well how much to give a person based on their age." She explains and Yuri stared at her.

"You're a particular one." He smiled, "I hope to see you again soon." He said.

After the group said their goodbyes, they went their separate ways. The siblings headed deeper into the forest, where the young boy woke up.

"It's okay, you're safe." Arisa smiled warmly as the boy looked at her surprised and began crying, "Let's get you to your new home. You'll be welcomed there." She said as they arrived at their destination.

Christian's griffin, Skylar, was waiting for them, Feh and Kuro greeted him and the creature stood up, letting the two get on.

"Hyaa!" Christian yelled that the three took off.

To Herving Territory, they go.

- Officers Academy: Afternoon -

"Sigh..." Lestia was bored.

After that whole disaster with the cute rat at the tea party and till tomorrow the orientation is, she had nothing to do. She always liked things to be a little hectic at times and she already unpacked all her belongings, putting them in the drawers and such. Still, she had a lot of interesting things today. She rolled onto her stomach and stared at the door with a bit of a pout. She spoke with her fellow Blue Lions, a couple of the Black Eagle students along with those of the Golden Deer. Watching Edelgard scream was hilarious, she's never going to live it down! But her talk with her stepsister was an interesting one. Truthfully, she did manage to get some information regarding the group.

"You never make it easy." She muttered as she got off her bed and walked over to her desk, where a journal was.

She opened it, looking at the notes she has taken over the year regarding rumors of Remire Village, stories of the Ashen Demon but also a new name that has been given to her Professor. It was written in bold lettering in the middle of a page where Jeralt and his group mercenaries have last been seen but have never been tracked down.

Goddess of Death

Lestia frowned a bit as she looked at the next page regarding notes about her friend traveling as Kiana Kalsana. The stories call her a Saint for helping the poor, teaching children how to read and write. Honestly, some things did not make sense to her. The stories from mercenaries portray Arisa as a literal Goddess of Death, who gives a prayer to the person before she takes their life. While the stories of the common folk portray her as a saint that has been sent down from the heavens to help the poor. Lestia sighed as she sat down on her chair, looking at the notes she had been taking over the years. From tactical schemes to pranks, even more. She was a tactician. Many feared her for that knowledge she had. When she and Sylvian were made the leaders of their first maiden battle, many could not believe the advanced strategies that were used to quell the rebellion quickly and efficiently, with the least causalities. Still, she would never forget how sick she felt to her stomach taking life and worse...the face of pure hatred and rage that flashed over the face of her twin brother.

"I now understand why Felix calls you a boar prince..." she muttered as she kept looking through the pages and then to one about Sadi.

The Duscur girl was strange, but that was what she loved about her. Sadi was her best friend and she held no grudge towards the people of Duscur. They were proven innocent but the mystery of who truly caused it remains. The girl at times would be seen talking alone, or even to animals, to even her own shadow or others. It is not normal. Emily did a test on her to see if she had a Crest, but she did not. Lestia sighs once more as she closed her journal and thought for a moment.

"How would things have been if you and Amir stayed?" The princess muttered to herself as she hid her journal away.

She needs to talk to Claude. Maybe he can give her some insight into things. Funny, a schemer trusting a schemer. Well, they are long distant relatives but that wasn't it. She always felt close to him because of her Crest.

"You and I are more than like Claude."

- Late at night: Dream -

"Where?"

The voices of revenge did not whisper in his mind nor did they scream for revenge. There was nothing but silence as the darkness around him began to have specks of light. He walked towards one and touched it, the darkness replaced the forest near the palace. The snow falling peacefully, the place a pure white, a few bird chirpings.

"Come on, Dimitri!" He turned, his eyes wide as a young 15-year-old girl ran past him, dressed in the familiar shade of dark green.

He could not help but reach out to her, yet his hand passed right through.

"Arisa..." he whispered as he heard running footsteps and saw his younger 12-year-old self, out of breath running towards her.

"Please wait a moment Arisa!" His younger self yelled out and the girl stopped, returning to him.

"Want me to carry you?" She teased and young Dimitri shook his head, his face becoming crimson.

"I'm alright!" He squeaked and she smiled.

He noticed her look around the place, the white snow surrounded them, yet, a sad look befell her eyes as she looked around.

"You always have a sad look in your eye." His younger self said to her as the girl turned to him, "Why?" He asked.

Arisa was silent as she looked around once more and spoke.

"To be honest...I hate the cold." She said, "The cold reminds me of a place I used to be in. Guess you can say it's the reason why I hate getting sick. Because I fear that at some point, this life I have now, is all a dream and I'll wake up. It'll all be gone. I'll be back to..." she paused and shook her head, "Never mind." She smiled softly to him, " Did you know that snow can symbolize individuality, changes, and transformation or new beginnings in various cultures. Traditionally, snow signifies winter and the end of the growing season. Because of its relation to the end of growth in the natural world, snow is often linked to death and hardships." Arisa said with a sad smile as she looked around.

"Do you like snow Arisa?" He asked her.

"I do. But at the same time, I don't. I don't like the cold. Honestly...it makes me feel lonely." She said as she fixed his scarf.

"And what about now?" Seems his question caught her off guard a bit, "Are you lonely now?" He said and she was silent and gave him a warm smile, yet the sadness still lingered in her eyes.

"Maybe a little. But I have you and everyone. That is more than enough." She said and hugged him.

"Arisa...why do you feel lonely?" He said and something he did not see when he was younger.

Her eyes went wide at his question and then closed them, a bitter smile on her lips appeared.

"When you're older, you will understand one day."

The scene changes once again, the voices of the dead began to return, today they were just whispering.

"Stop...I know...I know...I swear I'll get revenge...I just need more time!" He yelled, the figure of his stepmother, Lady Patricia, scowls.

"Foolish boy. You are weak. You have no strength. You who left us burn in the flames." She said and he shook his head.

"That isn't true!" He said desperately as the voices were getting louder and louder.

"Pathetic." He turned to the figure of his father, who looked at him coldly, "Avenge us! Bring us the heads who slain us! Burn them to ash!" He boomed loudly as the headaches became painful.

How much he wanted this to end.

- End of Dream -

"Di..."

"Dimi..."

"Dimitri!"

His eyes snap open as he felt someone shaking him awake, his chest heaved heavy, his heart beating rapidly, his forehead covered in sweat. His own azure eyes met matching ones, seeing the familiar locks of blonde hair in a frizzy state, yet the same blue eyes looking at him worried. She was wearing her dark blue night gown.

"Oh...Oh, Lestia...it's just you..." he let go a sigh of relief as his sister gave him a frown.

"You were having nightmares again." She said, "Have you been hearing father and mother's voices again?" She said and felt him stiffen because her hand was on his shoulder.

Lestia let go of a sigh and made him scoot over, getting on his bed.

"What are you doing?" He said confused as she laid down and sent him a glare.

"Just shut up and sleep. I'll stay here with you." She said as he hesitated to lay down but did it anyway.

"You don't have to stay..." Dimitri muttered and she pushed his head back.

"Hahaha. Very funny." She said sarcastically and shook her head, "You may be older than me by 5 minutes but I'm the one with the ability to sense emotions to a much better extent." She said a bit sharply.

"Haha." He chuckled, " You always been like this when we were little." He said, "This brings back memories of when we were kids. You would always drag me to your room, or you would sneak into mine, and then both of us would sleep together." Dimitri said as a small smile graced his lips.

Lestia propped herself on her elbow and smiled softly at him.

"Yeah, I remember. As well as how much you llllooovvveeeeed clinging onto Arisa when I would drag her to sleep with us." She snickered at how red his face turned.

"Lestia, please stop." He said and she just smiled.

"There is nothing wrong with you still having a crush on her. Out of curiosity, what will you do if you ever meet her again?" She asked as his face became a bit conflicted, "She has grown a lot like us. I think she's turning 21 this year. But anyhow, what will you do?" She asked once more.

"I honestly don't know." Dimitri said as he looked to the ceiling, trying to clear his mind, "It has been 4 years since we have heard anything of her. I have asked Emily, even Glenn but they won't say anything. I wish they would just tell us." He said a bit frustrated while his sister smirked.

"Would you like to know what I have learned?" Lestia said and his eyes quickly turned her way, "As Kiana Kalsana, she is called a Saint. As a mercenary, she is called The Ashen Demon but also The Goddess of Death. Here's the thing, no one has seen her face in over four years. The story says that only those close to her have seen her face. That is all I managed to hear about from the knights." She said and Dimitri narrowed his eyes a bit.

"No one has seen her face?" He said.

"Correct, but the rumor is because she could not handle the sun. Others say her face is scary, or maybe she does not have a face at all. But those that say that have gotten a glimpse of her eyes, they are a beautiful color of brown that fades to emerald yet in the battlefield, they are void of emotions. " She whispered.

"Where exactly did you hear this? I know for sure you could have not gotten this information from simply hearing gossip." Dimitri said and she just gave him a closed eye smile.

"I got my ways. Anyhow, we better get some sleep. We'll be made official House Leaders tomorrow." She said and sighed led close to him.

Dimitri let go of a sigh as he hugged his sister back, closing his eyes.

Thankfully he managed to get some sleep.

- The Next Day -

"Uuugghhhhh...okay, I may have overdone it on the wine." Claude groans as the first rays of the morning light slipped through the cracks of his curtains, shining down on his face.

He had a bit too much fun speaking with Henry regarding a couple of schemes as well as getting to know him. But to be honest, he did ask him where he came from. Seems that was a taboo topic that made the boy have a strained smile as he tried to dodge the question. Claude's interest only peaked even more.

Knock knock!

"Claude! Awaken from your slumber! Do not think I do not know about you returning to your quarters so late!"

The Reigan heir just groans because that was Lorenz. He muttered a few curses under his breath as he shook his head, still under the blankets.

"I get it, Lorenz! At least go wake up Hilda also!" He yelled out and seems Lorenz was already gone, thank the goddess.

He forced himself up and went to the bowl of water next to his bed, splashing his face to help him wake up and also sober up. He let go of a sigh as he opened his eyes, staring at the reflection of himself. He never forgot the mummers and whispers of other students that were speaking about him. He knew he was an outsider. That many did not welcome him to this place. One, for obvious reasons that just last year he has declared the Heir to House Reigan when originally there was none. He did not need to relive the horrors of his childhood yet...he looked down at the green beaded bracelet on his left hand, despite it being old and the string could snap at any moment, it held a deep meaning to him. A feeling of tenderness and kindness from a certain girl despite the problems she has.

"Alexandra..." he muttered as he finished drying his face with a clean cloth.

He went to his closest, grabbing his uniform and putting it on. He was wearing a uniform coat to be elongated like a tailcoat and wore baggy black pants that were easier to move in along with black boots. Underneath his coat, he wore a yellow shirt. Combing his hair with the usual small braid, he left out his room and nearly accidentally rammed into Forrest.

"Oh, Forrest! Sorry about that." He said to the feminine boy who shook his head.

"It is alright. I am just heading to wake up my cousin. Has Hilda woken up yet? I wanted to show her a few things." Forrest said.

"She's probably still asleep. Just slap her door with enough force and she'll wake up." Claude chuckled.

"I might do that. Well, it was nice seeing you, Claude." Forrest gave him a small smile and left down the hallway.

It was no surprise to him to see many students walking and heading towards the Cathedral for orientation as well preparing for their classes later today. Professor Manuela would be teaching his class, Professor Hanneman the Black Eagles and for now, Professor Orbis will be teaching the Blue Lions. He made his way through the stairs, students all standing up and line up with their respected houses. Lestia sent him a wave as his eyes looked at the leading students of the Blue Lions. Huh, Hessian was seated right by Dimitri.

Blue Lions:

Dimitri, Lestia, Dedue, Ingrid, Mercedes, Annette, Sylvian, Felix, Ashe, Sadi, Dwyer, LYSITHEA?!

Black Eagles:

Edelgard, Hubert, Ferdinand, Petra, Dorothea, Caspar, Linhardt, Bernadetta, Henry, Forrest, Volouria and Siegbert

Golden Deers:

Claude, Lorenz, Hilda, Leonie, Ignatz, Raphael, Marianne, Noire, Silque, Boey, Selkie, and a boy named Dominic (Ares: My son.)

Claude let go of a sigh as he made his way to the front center of his house, already feeling the stares from other students. Noire looked at him worried as the groups whisper and seemed to instantly shut up when Lestia made a finger gun with her right hand. He'll have to thank her for that later. They all heard the door near the right side of the cathedral open and walking in all her grace was Archbishop Rhea, a green-haired beautiful woman. Alongside her was Flayn and Seteth as well as...

There the sound of multiple strangling chokes as the majority of the student's eyes widened when their sight landed on Beleth, who was dressed in dark clothing similar to the Professor of their past but he was for men.

"He...looks like the male version of Arisa..." Edelgard said in her mind as she felt her throat go dry at the sight of this person.

"Is everything alright?" Seteth said as he noticed the discomfort many of the students had when the male knight came in.

"Y-Yes everything is just fine." Lestia grinned a bit crookedly and Seteth looked at her and everyone in suspicion before he returned to the Archbishop's side.

Beleth could not help but look around as he saw all the students and then turned back to his mother, but he was no idiot. He could feel a slight wave of hostility coming from all Three Houses. Rhea walked up to the front of the statue of an angel, the sunlight shining in beautiful through the stained glass windows. Though it could not be seen thanks to the gloves she wore, Rhea had a prosaic left hand that she had privately requested built by Emily. She was honestly impressed but also terrified by how advanced the hand was. It functions like a real hand. Rhea smiled warmly as she spoke to the students.

"Good morning everyone. I welcome you all to the start of a new school year here at Garreg Mach Officers Academy. I am happy to see so many kind souls come to learn the vigilance of the Goddess." She said and Lestia mentally scoffed along with Claude, "May her teachings guide you well through this year during your stay at the Monastery." She said and interviewed her hands together, "Now, let us pray to the goddess for a safe and prosperous year. For the goddess watches over us." She said

The choir began singing the holy songs that many have heard over the years. Those devoted to the choir softly sung the songs, like Mercedes, Silque, Annette, and Marianne. Sadi had a mini yawn and thankfully she was in the back but froze as the shadows began talking again.

"Danger...danger...danger..."

She heard and noticed a single snowflake with unnatural blue color. Unknown to all, a certain pale-colored girl flew through the walls and watched in silence the students singing the Holy songs. She gritted her teeth as she spotted Serios, Cethleann, Cichol, and...

"How interesting." She muttered as spotted Beleth, and floated over to him, looking at his face carefully then frowned as she floated away.

She'll cause havoc on a different day. The shadows began whispering that the danger had left and Sadi let go a small sigh of relief as she returned to signing the hymns with the others. A few more minutes passed, and it was done. Beleth stood beside his mother as he spoke.

"House Leaders! Step forward to receive your leader capes!" He yelled out and the twins of the Blue Lions, Edelgard of the black Eagles and Claude of The Golden Deer, stepped forward as Beleth nodded to them. The knight first walked to the Blue Lions, handing Dimitri his cape. The second Prince of Faerghus nodded and Lestia was handed hers, who also nodded. The twins put on their capes, Dimitri to the right and Lestia to the left, to show the bond of the two. Beleth then made his way to Claude, who smiled at the knight. Beleth gave him a soft smile that made the Reigan Heir freeze because for the second the knight looked like the spitting image of his teacher. Beleth handed him his yellow Cape, that Claude put on. The knight made his way to Edelgard, who kept staring at him. The knight slightly raised an eyebrow.

"Is everything alright?" He asked and her train of thought was broken.

"My apologies for staring. You remind me of someone I know." She answered and he chuckled a bit as he handed her the red cape.

"It's not the first time I have been told that." He said and now it was Edelgard's turn to raise an eyebrow at the comment.

With the final Cape given, Beleth turned to walk back to the altar but he could feel the stares he was getting from the four house leaders. He has received comments from mercenaries he has met through the years that he remained them of someone they have worked with in the past or recently. He had spoken to his mother about the comments and it seems her mood would shift to one of joy for some reason.

"House Leaders!" Seteth spoke, "You have received your cape as proof that you are the leaders of your House. As the next Generation of Fodlan's future, you have to show your leadership." He said and many nodded.

"May the goddess watch over you all," Rhea said and with that, the orientation was over.

Students chatted with each other excitedly, heading over to their respected houses to meet their professors and such. Others went to do their things like training and such. For Claude, he went to the stables to see if his wyvern had been brought. On his way, he saw Marianne speaking with the horse known as Dorte, a couple of the woolly bugs flying by. Ferdinand was also with a few horses and seems a few of the kinshi have taken a liking to him.

"There's my girl!" Claude grinned as he walked to the section of wyverns, a happy growl was heard as the view of white scale that looked almost like pearls, came into his view.

He spread his arms as he entered and very quickly, a white snout was nuzzling his cheek.

"Hey Zarha, sorry I couldn't ride with you. But I'm here now. Hope you made a few friends." He said as he looked into jade-colored eyes, the albino wyvern licked his cheek gently as he petted her head.

"Oh, I had no idea that was your wyvern! Truly a rarity and beauty." Claude heard a male voice and turned to see Sylvain.

"Hey. I didn't think you be the type to be here." Claude smirked, "Skipping class already?" He said and Sylvain just smiled.

"No, not really. But truthfully, we aren't exactly happy with the Professor we got. The old man is stingy and honestly isn't showing much care about teaching. At least you guys got Professor Manuela." Sylvian said as he was petting a wyvern that had taken a liking to him.

"It's only the beginning of the year. Who knows, maybe fate likes to shake things up a little?" Claude said and Sylvian chuckled.

"Who knows? Say, want to play a game of chess later? I usually ask Lestia to play around with me (Lestia: Which I always crush you.) But she's going with the girls later today to their teatime." He said and Claude shrugged.

"Sure. I don't mind." Claude said as the two turned to walk out of the stable, but they suddenly felt a shiver go down their spines.

The two shared a glance and took out the daggers they usually carry, carefully looking around. It may be the morning but attacking in the daylight? Bold, whoever it is.

"GGRRRERRRR!" All the wyverns began growling at once and even the other animals in the stables became spooked.

What is going on?!" Manny of the students became worried as the horses neighed loudly, the Kinshi began hissing, puffing their feathers, the wyverns growling. Seteth thankfully was near the stables as he was on his way to the dining hall when he heard the commotion.

"What on earth?" He choked out as he quickly ran into the stables, and spotting Sylvian and Claude, back to back, daggers out.

The wyverns were not growling at them but to something in the center.

"Tch. Here I was hoping I could freeze both Gautier and Reigan but you punks had to get in my way." Only the animals and Fae could see her, for she had grown along with her vessel.

"(Who are you?! You dare try and harm our masters?!)" Zarha growled while the pale girl chuckled, raising her hand but stopped when she saw a man with a familiar face enter, worried.

"Are you boys alright?!" Seteth yelled and the two others nodded before they turned their attention back to the are the wyverns were circulating.

"Something is there..." Claude hissed.

Seteth turned to look back to the area, his right hand glowed with a fire spell, ready. The pale girl frowned as her eyes became devoid of emotion, lowering her hand.

"Cichol..." she growled and looked over to the wyverns, "Fine then. I'll leave." And with that, she disappeared in a shower of blue dust.

The animals began to calm down as many let go of sighs of relief, Seteth turned to the two boys, who put away their daggers, letting go of sighs of relief.

"What happened?" The older man said as he walked up to them.

"We don't know. Both of us were tending the wyverns till we felt a shiver. Like if something was here, waiting to attack us." Claude said and Sylvian spoke.

"I was speaking with Sadi earlier and she said she felt a similar presence earlier during the orientation. She said, "It was staring at Beleth." That's how she said it. Seteth right?" Sylvian said and the man nodded, "We'll keep an eye out for anything that happens." He said.

The two boys left as Seteth let go of a sigh. He was worried. Flayn was here and her safety was the most important thing to him. What if she was injured again?

Things are changing.

- 7 days later: Lone Moon: March 23rd: Herving Territory-

Okay, today either luck wants to screw her big time, or it just so happened they were at the wrong place at the wrong time? It was supposed to be a simple job taking out bandits, but no. Fate likes to screw her over at times and this happened to be the worst of them all! Her rapier clashed violently with a black metal scythe; its owner grunted as his weapon paired with her rapier. The man dressed in dark black armor with spikes, his helmet that of a skull with horns, rode on top of an armored horse that neighs loudly. He could not believe the excitement that filled him as the two clashed blades. She was using a Heroes Relic before she switched to normal rapier, yet she was on complete par with him. He had never felt such excitement at such blows. Their attacks became deadlier by the second as if they were in a war.

"Hyaa!" She yelled as he barely dodges her rapier that was aiming at his chest.

How he longed to see that face of his "pleasure" that he has found.

"Such power..." he spoke as they clashed, "You who meets at equal blows at me...Show me all that you are!" His voice sounded possessed through the mask as he boomed, raising the Scythe of Sariel once more.

"Of all the people we could have encountered...it had to be The Death Knight!" Arisa mentally screamed as she spun around like a dancer, her dance of the goddess put into good use as she bent down to dodge his scythe then back up, thrusting her sword into his head.

"Grk!" The knight barely managed to shift his scythe a bit to make her rapier move, but it still hit the right side of his helmet, causing it to crack.

"Ugh!" He yelled as she jumped back, now she was holding the rapier the way assassins hold their swords.

A single dark blue eye, as well as some his right side of his face, was revealed, it was filled with pure shock as he looked at the woman a few feet in front of him, he managed to rip a portion off her hood, revealing a long lock of brown colored hair that faded to real. Arisa panted lightly as they two were having a staredown, the Death Knight's eye was filled with excitement as he spoke.

"Never has a soul landed a blow on me…..I must withdraw for now but know this, my pleasure, our blades will cross once again." The Death Knight said as his horse neigh loudly, then the two took off.

Arisa let go a sigh of relief as her hand glowed, using it to stitch up the ripped part of her hood, hiding the lock of hair again. She would be damned if someone saw her face right now. Only those she has chosen to have seen her face.

"Are you alright?" She turned she heard her brother run-up to her, his Dragon Claws were a bit bloody.

She looked around, corpses of the bandits all around, she felt sick to her stomach no matter how many times she had to kill. Her hands were a bit shaky and her brother hugged her to his chest.

"It's alright. I'm here." He said to her and patted her head as she gave him a small nod.

"I did not think we encountered Jeritza...I'm guessing the area must be one of his hunting grounds..." she said softly as he let go of her, and Sothis appeared in her child form, hugging her like usual.

"Arisa, can you please take off your hood? I miss seeing your face...I know you only take it off when we are at the village or only when you chose to, but please..." Sothis said and Arisa nodded as she removed it.

Christian smiled softly as he patted his sister's head and Sothis smiled warmly.

"You look a lot more like you did back in your old world. Honestly, the more I look, it's like you and Byleth fused." He said and she chuckled as she turned to him.

"Is there a reason you won't remove it yet?" Sothis asked as Arisa put back her hood.

"Because it's almost time. Next month, is when we will be reuniting with those three." She said and Christian frowned at her.

"Yeah, I know. You know I have been writing to Edelgard these past four years." He said.

"I know." She said as they began walking towards the woods, she sheathed her rapier, "It is your choice, not mine. Besides," she gave him a grin, "Edelgard is family to me too." She said.

Chris could not help but chuckle along with Sothis as they began to leave.

It is almost time.

- Days Later: Galard Moon: March 23rd late at night -

It was a rare cold night near the Empire territory. Dimitri could not sleep as he laid awake on his bed. As much as he would like his sister to have come with him and the other house leaders to the camp, she could not. The girl wanted some action, but she said to trust her while he was away. It was a training session anyway so it shouldn't be too bad. He sat up and shook his head a bit and left the tent. The knights were keeping guard outside and he spotted Claude awake also at one of the tables along with Edelgard.

"Can't sleep princeliness?" Claude smirked as the prince shook his head with a small smile.

"I just have a few things on my mind lately," Dimitri answered he sat next to Claude while Edelgard was across from him.

"If this about Lestia whining about not being allowed to come with us, personally I am grateful she was not allowed because she has not given me a break since the tea party weeks ago," Edelgard said and Claude laughed.

"Well princess, you got to get used to it." Claude grinned while the princess sent him a glare.

"Changing the subject..." Edelgard grumbled as she turned to Dimitri, "I heard that Professor Orbos is...a difficult one." It was a nice way of saying that the Professor is an imbecile.

"Siiighhh..." Dimitri sighs, "Unfortunately he is. He is more of a traditional type however I do not approve of the way he speaks to Dedue and Sadi. They are my friends and I will not tolerate such a form of speaking towards them." He said firmly.

"Wow. I'm impressed actually." Claude said, "But...can I ask you something? It's regarding...Lysithea." he said and Edelgard's interest peaked.

"Oh? Do tell." The princess said as Claude spoke.

"4 years ago, the entire Ordelia family was massacred. Their manor burnt to the ground that all that was left were ashes. However, a body was found, a body that was cut in half, a bloody letter in its hands...confessing that the Ordelia family were pawns...that the children of Ordelia...were failed experiments of the rumored of Crest implementation." He whispered because a knight passed by.

Edelgard felt her blood run cold as Claude continued to speak of this subject and Dimitri's jaw hangs open.

"That he was commanded by a group called...Those Who Slither in the Dark...to exterminate the failed human test subjects..." Claude's eyes went cold as he gritted his teeth remembering when the news spread like a wildfire all over the Alliance, "Since then...all of the Noble Leader have felt guilty because they turned their backs when the Ordelia family pleaded countless times for help...but what makes it worse...is that the even if the nobles all agreed to further investigate who this group was, The Church of Serios forbade it." Claude said.

"What...? Why would they forbid such a thing?! Why wouldn't they allow to search for the ones responsible?!" Dimitri said angrily while Edelgard was silent.

"I don't know...but whatever that case is...I'm just glad to see Lysithea is alive. It's strange though that she is part of House Zoltras." Claude said.

"Now that I think about it..." Dimitri pondered, "Emily said 4 years ago that she took in a child that was greatly injured and barely managed to survive thanks to the help of...Kiana...Kalsana..." He carefully said the fake name that his friend would use.

"You could have just said it was Teach," Claude said and the two House Leaders turned to him surprised.

"What? I always knew Kiana Kalsana was Arisa. I was her first student after all." He said smugly.

"I beg your pardon?" Edelgard said before Dimitri could.

"Yup." Time for the silver tongue to be unleashed, "Arisa and her friends I met back when I was around 7 years old. Her father along with his group of mercenaries stayed for a couple of months in Derdriu for jobs. She trained me properly how to use a bow along with the idea that archers should carry daggers with us. Which, by the way," he took out his dagger and spun it with his fingers, "is very helpful. Amir taught me how to use an axe. Their third friend, her name is Alexandra, taught me how to ride a wyvern and pegasus. Ahhhhhh! They were so much fun to hand out with. Especially Alex. She was so cute when flustered. Oh! And Arisa would sometimes let me sleep with her." And he was enjoying the look that was coming on Dimitri's face.

Was that jealousy he was seeing?

Ohohohoho! This was going to be a show! The same case was going on with Edelgard! Claude had a sly smirk as Dimitri put on a strained smile.

"Hahaha! Is that so?" The prince said as one hand balled into a fist, "Care to tell us more of your childhood days?" He said as Edelgard propped her elbows on the table, intertwined her hands, and smiled.

"Yes, do tell. We would like to hear more of those days." She smiled sweetly; her eyes squinted just a tad bit.

"Where's Lestia when I need her?" Claude was inwardly cursing at himself as he was now faced with two smiles that had the intention to end his life.

Just when he was about to speak...

"IT'S AN AMBUSH!"

Arrows began falling from the sky, the three leaders quickly grabbing their weapons. Bandits began to surround the place, but inwardly Edelgard was smirking.

"Just on time." She thought and noticed Claude run in a different direction towards the deep end of the woods.

"Let's go, Dimitri!" Edelgard said and the two ran in the same direction as Claude.

"Why are you two following me?!" The Golden Deer leader yelled at them.

"We must stick together!" Edelgard said but fear did creep into her as the bandits ran after them.

Minutes seemed like hours as they ran yet...something felt very off.

"Wait stop," Claude said and the three looked around, the forest looking for different and deadlier.

The three stood back to back, one with a bow, the other with his lance, and the final with her axe.

"The forest...shouldn't be like this..." Claude said lowly as they heard the bushes rustle.

"It's faint...but...I sense magic..." Dimitri said and Edelgard looked towards him.

"You can sense magic?" She said and he nodded.

"Yes...to some extent..." Dimitri said and that worried Edelgard quite a bit.

She knows Dimitri is not a mage yet...how? Dimitri closed his eyes, hoping he could find something to help him, but he heard a river.

"This way. I hear a river nearby." He spoke and the two nodded following him.

5 minutes passed and they arrived at a river, with strange blue stones. Claude leaned down and picked one up, studying it.

"I never saw stone like this...they kind of remind me of the morning dew." He said.

"Wait, could you repeat what you just said?" Dimitri said and Claude looked at him confused.

"That they remind me of the morning dew?" The archer said and it was slowly beginning to click to the prince.

"Strange...the river smells like the sea," Edelgard commented as she picked up a stone and put it in her pocket.

"Down the river...of stones of blue..." Dimitri muttered out loud while the other two-house leaders turned to him confused, " you'll find the moon in the sea of green..." as he took a couple of steps ahead.

"If there is a day you come to the forest of Garreg Mach and are lost in the woods, remember this song."

"Dimitri where are you going!?" Edelgard yelled out as the Prince of Blaiddyd bolted ahead and the two-house leaders were forced to run after him. The bandits were getting closer the princess could tell but she was also confused. Why did Dimitri react in such a way? The prince kept running till he reached an area that was filled with nothing but trees, the wind was blowing, making it look as if they were singing. The moonlight was shown, a trail of mushrooms that illuminated the grown-over road.

"Dimitri, seriously! Where are we going?! What's gotten into you?!" Clause panted as he and Edelgard caught up.

"I'm taking us...to Remire village." The price said and Edelgard looked at him like he was crazy.

"What?! But Remire Village..." Edelgard but Dimitri canceled out her words as he continued forward.

"Flowers of rainbow nearby..." he muttered and spotted a few odd flowers of different colors, "Keep on going...you're almost there...." he said and 10 minutes later...

"N-No way..." Claude could barely believe what he was seeing, it was the entrance to the village.

Edelgard was stunned into silence as the three walked through the gates, it was a bit lively for late at night but still many were awake. There were people of all kinds and Claude had to admit, it put him a bit on edge. Edelgard was too stunned to say anything as she saw a few others running around.

"Oh? Visitors this late?"

The three froze as an older woman approached them and with her was an older wolf.

"She's Almyran..." Claude thought as the woman looked at the three with narrow eyes.

"What are you three children doing here? It is late for visitors at night." Yup, Almyran, she had an accent in her speech.

"Please forgive us for disturbing you all so late! Our camp has been attacked by bandits and we are worried they have followed us here!" Dimitri gave a polite bow as the woman's eyes went wide.

"ARES! RA!" The woman yelled out and two men that were talking to each other approached them.

"Fiona, what's wrong? It's rare for you to yell out, ne." The one named Ra said, and Dimitri recognized the accent that he was someone from Sreng.

"Who are the kids?" Ares said as he looked at them up and down till they landed on the price.

"Wait...you look familiar..." he said and the woman turned to the men.

"Ra, inform the Captain! Bandits are coming! Ares, get Jorha, Acia, and the others!" She ordered and the wolf barked.

"Got it," Ares said and instantly went to get the others.

"You three!" Ra pointed to the three kids, "Come with me." That was all he said, and they began quickly following him.

[-]

"Yyyaaaawwwnnnnn! That was good sleep." Arisa said as she stood up from her bed and washed her face, the used magic to change into her clothing and her cloak.

It was late at night and her father and the others were heading to the Kingdom for a job.

"Hey, kid! Get up!" She heard from the other side of her door and chuckled as she stood up and opened it.

"I'm up dad! I'm up!" Arisa giggled as Jeralt gave her a small smile.

"We'll be leaving at dawn today. Elder Bara, Olivia, and Charlotte will watch over Kaimu and Jaden while we are away. I'm still not exactly happy with you taking in the boy without talking to me but that's your choice, not mine. He's a nice kid." Jeralt said as the two began to walk down the hallway and saw Florencio and Sandy, as well as Amir, Alexandra, and Chris, waiting for them. The other three wore their cloaks to hide their identities.

"Dad, just admit you're happy he calls you Grandpa. He calls me Big Sister." She said and Amir began snickering.

"And that kid is how you get an ass-whooping. You're still light enough for me to swing over my shoulders." Jeralt said and she giggled.

"Strange," Sandy said, "there seems to be a bit of a ruckus outside." The woman sighs as Jeralt groans.

"Good grief. Everyone is already waiting for us outside." He said and the door burst open, it was Ra.

"Captain, sorry to barge in but we got in trouble! Your presence is needed!" Ra said and the other looked worried while Arisa and Christian had a neutral face.

"What's happened?" Jeralt said.

The group walked off the house and the group of friends felt their hearts freeze as three familiar faces came into view. Dimitri turned and quickly bowed as they walked up to his group.

"Please forgive our intrusion. We wouldn't bother you if the situation was not dire." Dimitri said while Jeralt had a frown.

"What are a bunch of kids like you want at this hour?" Jeralt said as no one noticed the pure white wolf that came up to stand besides Arisa except only her. The white world wore metal-like claw armor over her paws, and Arisa lightly petted her head. She knew it was Blanca, who had grown to be a beautiful wolf as well as deadly because Nuke raised her like his own daughter.

"We're being pursued by a group of bandits. I can only hope that you will be so kind as to lend us your support." Dimitri said and Sandy.

"Wait, that's impossible. Bandits? Here?! Did you kids destroy the barrier I had around the village?!" Florencio hissed angrily.

"What?! No no!" Edelgard said, "We did not know there was a barrier! But what we say is true! They attacked us while we were resting in our camp." Edelgard said while Florencio had his eyes narrowed at them.

"We've been separated from our companions and we're outnumbered. They're after our lives...not to mention our gold." Claude shook his head and shivered at the void look Sandy was giving him.

"I'm impressed you're staying so calm considering the situation you are in boy," Sandy said, suddenly Claude felt like he was talking to Judith.

"Wait...that uniform..." Jeralt said as dread was slowly beginning to fill him as he put the pieces together who these children were.

"Bandits spotted outside the village! Damn, there are a lot of them!" Temes ran up to them, worried.

"They follow you..." Chris spoke and Jeralt turned to his daughter, "You know what to do kid! I'll guard the other side; I trust you to take command. Florencio and Sandy! You two are with me!" He said and quickly he the other two ran the other way.

Arisa spoke no words as she, and the other four whistled. The three house leaders turned with wide eyes at the sky as two griffins, a huge wyvern, a black eagle, snowy owl, were all led by a red pegasus. The two also noticed a fox run towards their way wearing armor. Blanca barked and they noticed her, with wide eyes, but at the armor she wore. The snowy owl landed on Arisa's head, the eagle on Chris's arm, the black feather griffon went to him while the brown one to Amir. The black huge wyvern purred as he nuzzled Alexandra's cheek, and the red pegasus neighed happily as Arisa walked up to him, petting his head.

"Wait, they all belong to you guys?" Claude said.

"Can you fight?" Arisa spoke and Dimitri nodded as she mounted Red Hare, the other did the same.

"We'll help. It is the least we could do after the danger we brought." Edelgard said as she looked at her firmly and Chris chuckled a bit.

"Besides, you guys seem pretty interesting," Claude said as he readied his bow.

"Stay in position. Make sure to follow my orders." Arisa said as she got back off and pointed to Amir and Chris, "You two, skies." She said and they turned to Alexandra, "You're with me. Make sure Falco has his metal claws on like Blanca and Puka. Feh, join Kuro to watch the sky too." She said.

Alexandra nodded as she made a magic circle appear near her hand, a blue metal scythe appeared, and she nodded. Aris took out her rapier as she began ordering her fellow mercenaries as well as the others. She could feel the stare of the leaders on her and she turned to them.

"You are staring." She said bluntly and backed away a bit, having been caught in the act.

"Sorry it's just...your voice sounds familiar. Have we met before?" Dimitri said to her and she spoke.

"Questions later children. Bandits first." She said and Alexandra snickered as she walked past them.

That snickering was silenced later.

It was a bloodbath fight between the bandits. Arisa trusted her rapier at rapid speeds as Alexandra twirls her lance with grace as she cut her enemies down. From the skies, they could hear the battle going on. Claude scrunched his nose as a body fell from the sky to the ground, obviously, a lightning spell was used on the person, but he noticed specks of black lightning were black. Suddenly the rumors of The Thunder Hammer came to his head.

"BLANCA! PUKA! HILLS!" Arisa yelled and the two creatures charged at archers like blurs.

Blanca looked like a white comet as she used her claws to slash at the archers, and her teeth rose to RIP out their throats. Puka, despite being small, was perfect as she silently killed the archers on the other side. The three house leaders could not believe the amount of communication and trust the mercenaries had with their leader. Just one look at her and they already knew what to do.

"Dodge!" Edelgard dodged down as a sword came at her and countered attack the bandit with her axe, slashing down.

"GGGRRR! I'll kill you!" Kotas roared as he charged at Edelgard, the girl barely had time to raise her weapon, yet...

"ARRGGHHH!" His left arm was sent flying away, also knocking him to the floor, the person in front of her, held their rapier tightly, the force she used, cause their hood to fall off, revealing their face.

Time seemed to slow down for Edelgard as her eyes went wide as beautiful colored brown hair that faded to teal spill, its length to her ankles, they wore a veil behind their head, a light green see-through cloth that was held with white Lily hair clips. As they turned their head, she saw long bangs that stopped mid-waist, whip a bit her way, they had pink colored ribbons. Their face turned her way, and she saw it. Their eyes…...

"It's been awhile El, ufu!" Brown-colored eyes that faded to emerald green smiled playfully to her, a voice she has not heard in such a long time.

"Hey! Ove-!" Claude and Dimitri froze as they stopped, seeing the person that just saved Edelgard.

Dimitri felt his throat go dry as the person in front of them smiled warmly at all three. The forest fairy welcomes all.

"Arisa?"

Reach for my hand,

I'll soar away Into the dawn,

Oh, I wish I could stay

Here in cherished halls,

In peaceful days

I fear the edge of dawn,

Knowing time betrays

Chapter 35: White Clouds: Part 1: Reunion at Dawn

[-]

Welcome to the first chapter of the new arc! I purposely did this one to have multiple perspectives as well as extra students to balance the many characters I accidentally added to the Blue Lions! Sorry! But don't worry, the newly added students (except Sadi, Lestia, Dominic) mostly side characters to balance things out. Also, because it was inspiration from a tweet on Twitter where some said, which characters from different Fire Emblem series would become friends. One of them was Gaius and Lysithea, who love sweets!

Now, the appearance of two of Ashen Wolves was a surprise but the encounter will have a meaningful meaning in the future when we hit the chapters after The Rite of Rebirth. Also, her adopting the boy she saved, his name is Jaden, he has a role, but it will not play out till future chapters along with Kaimu. Now, the main reason I did not reveal Arisa's appearance till the very end of the chapter is to show much she has changed. Next chapter I will reveal what she is wearing and how much she has grown physically. Her appearance is more like a mixture of both Jeralt and Sitri.

Amir's and Alexandra's appearances will not be revealed till the next chapter. Now, I'm sure many of you are wondering, what House she will lead? Well...you'll have to wait!

Also, there will be many, many, twists. Lastly, as Arisa grew, so did Sothis. Adult Sothis I decided she looks more like the goddess on the picture of the steel cover of the game. Sothis here can switch between adult and child form. At times she will appear in her adult form and at times in her child form.

Hope you are all looking forward to more!