- Abyss -
Did you hear the news?!
A new Professor and 3 new instructors! Incredible!
I heard that one of them is a weird one. Strange feathers she has on her head.
Heard there was a brawl and the new Professor put them all in their place!
Did you see the new Professor?! A beauty she is but she looks like that nun that hanged out with Captain Jeralt.
Sitri? I think it was her name.
Isn't that mercenary known as...
The Goddess of Death
Yuri didn't know if he should be hiding his laughter or just be silent as he heard the whispers and rumors going on about what happened yesterday. Not to mention the one person that witnessed it all was right here sitting with him telling everything that went down in detail. Only so few people were allowed to Abyss and the person in front of him had actually snuck his way in 2 years ago. Honestly Yuri owed him a favor for saving Constance from a bandit raid that nearly killed them all.
"That's how Arisa gave everyone a verbal ass whooping and the sight of it," Chris grinned as he mimicked a pinching motion in the air, "priceless!" He whispered triumphantly and Yuri lost it, bursting out laughing as he imagined how defeated the noble children looked like, their pride shattered in an instant.
"Whoa...that sounds brutal." A young woman with sun tan skin, bright dark red orange hair and same colored eyes, she wore a silver colored jacket with a purple shirt underneath, showing her mid waist, along with a short white skirt, purple colored short heel shoes, purple tights that went up to her knees, along with a sort of chain around her neck.
She couldn't help but have a small smirk as she took a sip of her drink.
"Eyepatch," she said, "I'm assuming the knights were also frightened?" She said.
"Yup. If you want Hapi, I can introduce Arisa to you. She may now be a Professor of the church, but she isn't exactly fond of them. Especially since 4 years ago one of them attacked her and...the kids she was protecting. But anyhow," he turned back to Yuri who finally calmed down, " you got what she asked for right?" Christian said and he nodded.
"Of course, I do, my friend. I am a man of my word." Yuri said as he took a book from inside his coat and slid it to him, "Greet her for me. I must say, the supplies you both have been sending...have been helping my people here. Thank you." He said.
"No problem. It's the least I can do to make up for the things that have been messed up by the nobles and knights." Chris said.
"Still, Eyepatch," Hapi said, "I have quite a few questions for you. It was strange when you suddenly showed up here 2 years ago. We were in the middle of fending off mercenaries and right when one of them was about to finish off Coco, you appeared." She said and he was silent, "It doesn't make sense. Why were you suddenly at the right place at the right time?" Direct she was and that's what Chris liked about her.
"Way to steal my question Hapi." Yuri said, "But I must agree with her. You're from the surface, yet you suddenly appeared here. Might as well now say the truth after two years. You can't keep hiding it from me." He said.
"Must I?" Christian said with a slight irritated tone.
"Unless you want me to reveal who you truly are, then we have to make another deal." Yuri said with a sly smirk that the white-haired man rolled his eyes.
"You win this round Yuri-bird." Christian said, "But honestly, I was just really looking for this place. I've heard rumors of it from my Academy days not to mention I was curious what happened to the books Seteth would not allow to be part of the monastery library." He said a bit bitterly.
"You got a book confiscated, didn't you?" Hapi said.
"I did...you all know...about Anti-magic users correct?" Christian said and Yuri frowned instantly.
"I do. The church is still hunting down that clan to this day." Yuri said as Chris took a sip of his drink.
"Well, back then, I was doing research on them as well as the type of magic they use. I...always been different from my family and many of the nobles around me, aka the damn six noble families of The Empire, saw me as a danger because I can perform anti-magic." Christian said as Hapi hums.
"It could be possible one of your ancestors might have hid that they came from that clan?" She said.
"Possibly. So anyhow, unfortunately I have to go. Don't want to get caught here or else I'll be suffering from Alois's puns." He said and Yuri instantly began groaning.
"You shouldn't be here anyway. You and the rest of your team are supposed to meet the Four House Leaders later today, correct?" Yuri said and he nodded.
"True. By the way, counting you," He pointed to Yuri with a smirk, "can't forget the 4th House Leader of the Ashen Wolves, now can I? Arisa is more than happy to welcome you all to join." He said.
"Sigh...I don't get that sister of yours..." Yuri said as he ran his fingers through his hair, a bitter smile on his lips, "The way she acts...the way she treats everyone regardless of status...the way she...it's like she's lonely. I know she's hiding something." He said and Christian frowned.
"That's because...no..." Chris shook his head, "One day...we'll tell you why she is like that. For now, I'll see you guys later. Take care." Christian said and warped away.
Hapi could not help but smirk at Yuri as she took a sip of her drink.
"If you have something to say, might as well say it." He said.
"Yuri-bird, you think a lot about this girl." She said and he raised an eyebrow at her.
"Speak Fodlan." He said and she chuckled.
"It's nothing." She said as she stood up and left to the Shadow Library.
She was going to help Constance with a magic experiment before Balthus became the blonde's guinea pig. Yuri was questioning himself on many things right now. Yes, he hates to admit but ever since he met Arisa, she hasn't left his mind. Something about her made him feel strange. She is not dangerous nor is she evil. He never forgot the tender look the woman had when she saved that young boy. It almost felt like the woman was searching, longing for something. But what? She was interesting and even he figured out that she had just as many secrets as the former prince of Aderstia has. He hopes to meet her again soon and maybe this time, have some alone time with her. But there was one warning that Christian gave him that put him on edge.
"Do not let Aelfric see her. Do not let him see her at all."
Yuri let go of a sigh a small smirk on his lips.
"I know my friend. I'll keep that warning in mind."
- Monastery: Midday: New Classroom Built: Auditorium-
About a 2 years ago, a new auditorium along with several other classrooms and dorms were built to help the monastery grow. New subjects were introduced, remodeling as well for older parts of the monastery. One of these was the auditorium that was suggested by many of the staff. So, currently, all the three houses were there, waiting patiently (stressed) for Professor Arisa to arrive along with the three new instructors. For now, everyone kept staring at Blanca jumping around happily around Velouria, who smiled softly at the snow wolf and Puka sleeping soundly on Selkie's lap.
"Hahah! Come on Puka! Let's play!" Selkie chuckled while Puka raised an eyebrow at her.
"(Child I am not as young as I used to be. In human years I be 20 years old!)" Pula barked at the barked at her.
"Okay, I'm confused." Hilda suddenly said as she tilted her head a bit, "I have only heard stories of the Kitsune tribe that live in the mountains and forest of the Alliance, but this is the first time seeing one in person up close. Selkie correct?" She said and the fox nodded, "How...are you here?" She said and Claude spoke.
"Now that I think about it, the Professor's son has a similar appearance as you. Like Hilda said, we've only heard stories of your tribes, but this is the first. It's the same case with the Wolfskin." He said referring to Velouria, who frowns.
"Well that's easy! Isn't it the same with the Ice tribe?" Selkie grinned as Dwyer slowly backed away, "Our tribes live in seclusion because humans have hunted us down for our fur. We don't exactly trust your kind. Truthfully, I'm not exactly happy being sent here to the Academy with a bunch of you humans but someone from the tribe has to help maintain a stable relationship with the church." She explained while Velouria sighs.
"And what about you?" Linhardt said to the girl who flinched, "Like your friend, we have never seen a person from the Wolfskin tribe before. Stories of your kind said to live in the dark mountains of House Nohr, who have protected your people. I find it fascinating that two people of such clans that are considered myths almost are here. I've also heard stories of the Laguz and Taguel tribes as well...but have never actually seen them. There are rumors that two members of House Zoltras are from those clans. Fae here are common because they are said to be the messengers of the goddess." He said.
"Wrong." Everyone suddenly turned to Dwyer.
"Oh? Speak." Edelgard said.
"Our clans, the Flame, Ice, Wind, Kitsune, Wolfskin, Laguz, and Taguel...are...far more ancient...our clans have been here, long before The Goddess came to this land. That's why the Church respects our isolation. Our clans refuse to join sides in war. Our tribes chose to live in isolation. Our clans are native to this land, we know much more about its history despite the cultural differences we have." Dwyer said as he shying away at the raised eyebrow from Felix.
"Still, " Volueria said, "we don't deny that there has been prejudice against our people over the years. True, many of the people of Fodlan respect us but there are those who...do not see us as living creatures like you all. Our people have been hunted down for our fur, enslaved, even massacred unfairly. It is one of the many reasons our tribe lives in seclusion away from humans. That's why four years ago, many of us felt empathy for those of Duscur because of the injustice that was done to them." She explains as she petted Hessian's head.
Selkie nodded as she turned to the other with a small smirk.
"Compare to you guys who see the 10 Elites as Heroes, our clans see them as nothing but monsters who massacred the innocent as well as how wrong the Saints did to The Ice Heroes Cirina." She said and the descendants of the 10 Elites looked at them confused.
"Oh, so you us as monsters then?" Felix as he looked over to Dimitri.
"What, of course not Lor-cough! Felix! That was your ancestors. You guys don't have to carry on the burdens your ancestors left behind. You can choose to not carry them." He said.
Marianne casted her eyes down as she heard those words. She never expected to hear such a thing from anyone. It...felt comforting.
"Back to the subject why we are here, "Selkia said, "every couple of years, someone from the tribes come to attend the Academy to help maintain a good relationship with the people of Fodlan. This year, our Clans were chosen. Besides, I'm excited! I get to play with a lot of you! Ooohhh! We can jump off cliffs or swing on vines! Oh! Even better jump off a waterfall!" She said and Raphael laughed.
"That sounds really fun! By the way, what is your guys training method to get stronger?" He said.
"Well..." Volueria thought for a moment, "at times we wrestle each other as well as running through rocky terrain to help us rebuild up muscles on our legs." She said as Raphael suddenly had sparkles in his eyes.
"Besides, not all humans are bad! You lot yeah kept asking us questions about our heritage these past weeks. Especially you with the Moon in his blood." Selkie pointed to Claude, "Human traditions are different from ours so we welcome questions! I still remember when Maria (Marianne) asked if she could pet my ears! I loved it!" She said excited and the said blue haired girl blushed.
Honestly many were extremely surprised to see two people of the legendary clans (safe for Dwyer because he looks like a normal human) as well when they talked about their culture and such. Even more of the world outside of Fodlan, which surprisingly, many were interested in the subject and they two would have spoken more if Seteth had not interrupted and the entire group had to make a run for it. It was honestly sad seeing the girl's get scolded, that was until one of them spoke in a language that only the man understood and made him flinch at their glares.
Right when a few others were about to speak, the doors to the auditorium opened, in came Arisa and following behind her were her friends as they came in. Arisa blinked as the air was slightly tense and raised an eyebrow at all of them.
"I hope you kids weren't arguing again." She said and they shook their heads, "Good."
The House Leaders walked up to her as the others listened.
"So, who did you choose?" Lestia said and Arisa smiled at all of them.
"Well, this year there was a change of plans." She said as confusion fell on many as they began muttering to each other, "This year, just because I will be leading one house does not mean I can't teach all of you! Rhea has decided that this year the professors will take turns in cycling and taking turns teaching all three houses! As well as you all will be doing missions together!" If memes existed in this world, Arisa could see they were all doing the Pikachu face as a grin spread across her face.
"Say what?!" Claude said as Alexandra spoke.
"Rhea said it's good for you all to form friendships as well as create new factions. I think it's good for you all to intermingle. However! " Alexandra said as Arisa spoke up.
"The House I will be officially leading is..." she turned to the twins, "The Blue Lions." And the said group broke in full cheers as Dimitri was processing what she just said.
Claude and Edelgard let go of sighs of defeat till the Reigan Heir suddenly swooped in at Alexandra from behind, hugging from behind just like they were kids, resting hs head on her shoulder. Many of the females gasped at his action, some had even turned red, a few even squealed while some of the boys had smirks and others shook their heads. Sylvain was not pleased with this.
"Awww. Teach, I'm wounded. But at least I know the Snow Princess will be m-!" And she pulled him over her shoulder, making him land flat on his back.
The Golden Deer house snickered as three other house leaders had pleased smiles as well as Sylvain, Claude groaning as Alexandra looked over him with a blank face.
"We are not kids anymore. So do not hug me like that again brat." She frowned at him and then turned to Sylvain, "Same with you punk." She said.
"I'm sorry about that..." Alexandra said as she looked at them, "My Crest makes become hostile towards people with a specific crest..." she explains and Linhardt was about to open his mouth to ask but Arisa instantly spoke.
"Back to the subject," she looked around, "Most of you I recognize however I see many new faces I have yet to meet." Arisa lied through her teeth.
"I'll meet you all properly later when I teach your classes later in the day. For now, let us all head back to the respective Houses." She said and everyone agreed to that as they began to leave the auditorium.
- Blue Lions House -
Self-introductions for the original Blue Lions were not needed but she still had them all introduce themselves even if Lysithea wasn't exactly pleased with such but it had been 4 years since Arisa had seen the young girl and she was glad she was doing better. Honestly, she'll have to ask Dominic later why he isn't in the Blue Lions House since he technically was originally from the Kingdom before he was brought to Remire Village. As the last student also known as the NPC's of the game filled the remaining desk, Arisa had started off by handing out a sheet of paper for students to write down what they are best as well as their weakness so she could help them improve.
"Be or be killed." No one was expecting cold words as she began her introduction, "Common words I heard through my days growing up. The much longer term is "The only ones who should be killed are those ready to be killed." Arisa said as she took out the dagger she carried, the one her father had given her, twirling it swiftly in her left hand as she leaned on the front of her desk.
Dimitri noticed on her waist was strapped the dagger he gifted her many years ago and couldn't help but have a small smile on his face but was quickly wiped out as she stabbed her dagger onto the map of the wall.
"They were the words my father, aunt, uncle and all those in my father's company told me as I grew up. They were words they taught to new recruits before they began training us." She said as her eyes closed, "Those words hold much more meaning then they let on. They are the words of the harsh reality of this word. But it is those words that made me and everyone in the company the strong warriors we are today."she placed her hand on her chest, only opening her eyes barely an inch, "They are the words of the harsh reality that we could die at any day and we must survive. Fight to live onto the next day. In battle it is either you or your enemies that die. These words are also in the mind of your enemy. Both of you are fighting for survival. Your goal, make sure you live and your enemy dies." She said as she walked back to her desk, her eyes still closed.
She turned to the front, seeing the stun to silent students as she was herself silent for a moment.
"There is no such thing as honor in war. There is no such thing as chivalry in a battle. There is no such thing as purity in this world. Such as there is no such thing as perfection." That instantly made many tenses, "I shall these words here in now. We-are-all-sinners. We all have done questionable acts throughout our lives, some even the smallest of things. Like I said, we are all sinners." She looked at her hand and felt Dimitri's stare at her, "I will be strict. I will be harsh. I will train you all the skills and knowledge needed to survive. If you are not prepared, you will lose more than just your life. You could cause the downfall of your allies." she opened her eyes once more and many gulped, "You aren't kids anymore. You are young adults. My job is to guide you. To teach you. I'll be teaching a sword and magic seminar once I get that sorted out but for now," she turned back to her desk, and picked up her quill, twirling it then back to tur students, "let's get you all to write down your strengths and weaknesses. This will help me get an idea on what can be done to help you all. With that, let us begin!" She said as the students began writing on their papers.
[-]
Alexandra didn't know if she should go hang out at the training grounds or just stay somewhere cool. She touched her feathers and made them invisible because she hated the stares she was getting. She made herself instead towards the library, hoping to catch a book to read but accidentally ran into someone.
"Sorry about that." Alexandra said and looked down; her heart froze as emotions began pooling to her as she looked at the young girl before her. She can feel Cirina's emotions crashing down on her wave after wave, desperately Alexandra was trying to maintain control, but it was becoming harder by the second and it only worsened when the girl spoke.
"Oh! I am s-Cirina?" Curly locks of mint green hair, a black dress with gold threading with ruffles and ribbons.
She wore black tights with black low heel boots, her mint green eyes looked at taller girl in shock, Alexandra shaking her head.
"I-I'm sorry but I'm afraid y-guuhhh!" Alexandra crouches down a bit, trying to maintain control as she held her right hand on her forehead while her other hands were using the wall as support.
She was beyond grateful no one was around to see her in such a sorry state.
"Are you alright?!" Flayn said to her worried and Cirina's wails were heard in her mind as blurry images passed through her eyes.
The young girl reached out her hand, yet it was slapped away by Alexandra.
"Don't touch me!" The blue haired girl hissed as she looked up to her, and Flayn saw her left eye flickering between The Crest of Aubin and a normal human pupil.
Alexandra glared at her and quickly pushed past the girl, not giving a damn of her name being called out to her. Whoever that girl was, Alexandra made a mental note to stay far, far, far, away from her. She has enough to deal with when she sees Rhea, when she sees Sylvain, when she sees Claude, and now this girl? Just how bad did the descendants of the 10 Elites and Saints screw Cirina over?!
Peace came back to her as she arrived at the library doors, thankfully she wasn't staggering anymore and walking normally as she entered. Something about the library, made her feel safe. Like a heaven she could lock herself away and be at peace. She looked around and was impressed by the decent size, still it was nothing compared to the public library of The Empire and Alliance. She went to the first section she saw and picked out a random book, which honestly made her raise an eyebrow as she read the title.
"The Justice System of Fodlan." She read and opened it to the first page as she went to sit down at one of them tables.
For some reason the girl felt...anger as she was reading it. There was a huge amount of problems she was seeing as she continued reading and pulled out her journal, writing down notes as well...ideas that could be used to fix it. The topics of criminology that Alexandra used to study as Theresa in her past life began to slowly come back to her. The knowledge that is.
"Oh. This is a rarity." She heard a soft male voice and raised her head a bit.
She saw an older man with brown hair dressed in white clothing a bit like a priest, he had a gentle smile as he spoke.
"Are you interested in politics young lady? It is rare to see one such as yourself so immerse." He said as the girl smiled kindly to him.
"Honestly I am surprised at myself. I found the topic fascinating but I can't help but...never mind. I am Alexandra Xiang. I am a new instructor here." She said as she reached out her hand to him.
"I am Tomas. I am the librarian here. If you need any help, let me know." He chuckled kindly the two shook hands yet, Alexandra froze.
"AGRATHAN! AGARTHAN!" Cirina roared in her mind as Alexandra suddenly let go of his hand and grasped her head, gritting her teeth in pain.
"Are you alright child?!" Tomas said worried but Cirina was roaring in her mind to kill the man in her sight.
The alter ego screamed and roared curses that only her vessel could hear. Alexandra desperately tried to maintain control and can feel Cirina roaring in her mind to let her take over. With a final push, Alexandra managed to push back the woman but at the cost of her strength.
"I...I...I..need...a...medic...noooooowwww Aaaahhhhhh!" Alexandra suddenly screamed, scaring many that were in the library, the girl falling back for the chair to the floor, hard.
The students quickly ran to her and a few were using their paper fans to help her try and recover. Panic was rising in the library till they heard running footsteps.
"What is-!" Seteth came at the perfect moment.
"Seteth, you arrived at the perfect time!" One of the female mages said, "We all heard the girl suddenly scream and the next thing we know we see her laying on the ground like this!" The mage said as Seteth turned to Tomas.
"Seems she suffered a sudden stroke." Tomas said as Seteth carefully picked her up.
"I'll take her to the infirmary for now. Unfortunately, Manuela is teaching Golden Deers right now we'll let her sleep." He said and left with the girl in his arms.
One of the students turned to grab the journal but it turned to blue dust in his hands, sending the boy to a panic that he may have accidentally destroyed it. Tomas was silent as the others were muttering to themselves. He felt it. A hostile power that was a failure many years ago.
"Could it...?" He thought to himself as he returned to his duties.
Arriving at the infirmary, Seteth carefully placed the girl down on the bed as he let go of a sigh. Even asleep, she was the splitting image of his niece. Guilt filled him as he looked at her and turned to leave till her heard whimpering.
"No...no...I... don't want...to go...back..." the girl whimpered as she gritted her teeth, "Don't...leave dad alone!" She cried and Seteth went to wake her up.
"Alexandra! Alexandra wake up!" He shook her gently till her eyes snapped open, the girl panting rapidly as he saw her eyes flickering between her Crest and normal eyes.
The girl panted rapidly till a sigh of relief filled her as her eyes landed on Seteth.
Thank you..." she said as she ran her fingers through her hair, "I am sorry you had to witness me like that Sir Seteth. Only my first day and I'm already causing trouble." She sighs.
"It is alright. I'm sure you are just tired that is all." He said to her as she nodded.
"Strange...I don't know why but I feel like I know you even if this technically is our first time talking to each other." Alexandra said and Seteth felt concerned, "Hmmm...you remind me of my father for some reason." She said and Seteth chuckled a bit.
"Lord Alexander correct?" He said and the girl's eyes widened, suddenly fear was in her eyes.
"Child, it is alright. Lord Alexander was a friend of mine. I heard about the situation from Emily. It is alright, you are safe here." He said and the girl let go a sigh of relief.
"Thank you. For now...I think I'll stay here and rest up a bit. I already had enough headaches for one day..." she said as she laid back to the bed, and Seteth nodded as he left, closing the door.
He began walking down the hallway, lost in thought as he remembered the terror and pain the girl was in as she was still in her sleeping state. Then her words that he reminded her of her father. Seteth took a deep breath as he stepped into his office, closing the door.
"I'm sorry to say this Lord Seteth but...Lord Alexander has passed away." An older woman with dark green hair and purple eyes said to the man, who looked at her in shock.
"W-What? Lady Cira...please tell me you are joking." Seteth could barely comprehend the news as the older woman shook her head.
Rhea was deathly silent as the older woman delivered the next part of the news.
"I know this a taboo among the church, but I perform an autopsy on the Lord." She said and Seteth's eyes flared angrily but she quickly cut him off before he opened his mouth, "It isn't normal. It is clear dark magic is involved and a dangerous one at that. Seems the spell was ticking time bomb." Lady Cira said as she rested her chin on her hand.
"What do you mean?" Rhea raised an eyebrow at her.
"Well, just like a bomb, you need to know when it explodes. In this case, it was set in a way for the person to die in their sleep. If a normal mage or Doctor examined him, they would rule out he had a heart attack. However, a more advanced image such as myself, A Gremory, I was able to see beyond the normality. Whoever did this to him wanted him gone. Now, I am, concern for his daughter who is now in the hands of...that woman." Lady Cira said referring to Cornelia.
"I understand. Thank you." Rhea let go of a sigh, But Cira, you are not to say a word about the magic used on him." Rhea said and Lady Cira gawked.
"I beg your pardon?! I have served the Royal Blaiddyd family for many years and to suddenly lie about the death of one of their most trusted friends and warriors?! I technically helped raise Alexander, Lambert and Roudrigue!" She said and angrily.
"Lady Cira, I understand how you feel but please listen. If word gets out that dark magic was involved, there is a possibility that Alexandra may be in danger." Rhea said and the woman sighs.
"Fine. Only this once I shall do it because I know Alexander loved his daughter more than anything in the world." Lady Cira said and looked over to Seteth, "He left a note to you by the way. He said if anything happened to him or Rensen, he wants you watch over her." She said.
It's going to be difficult but Seteth will look for the girl.
- Hours later -
She gave the same speech to Golden Deers and Black Eagles Houses. Each student in all three houses looked at her shocked as she gave her speech then it was introductions. She met Petra and the girl was beyond happy when Arisa showed her, she could speak Brigid and the girl was in a whirlwind of speaking so fast. Thankfully Arisa could understand her and allowed her to speak her native tongue to her if she wanted to. The girl had asked her if she could help her with her speech, which Arisa gladly accepted to help her. Right now, she was reading the documents of the Golden Deer, more specifically, reading Marianne's paper.
The girl specializes in the sword, faith, as well as riding and flying...
"Hmm...Marianne?" Arisa called out the girl's name as she stood up and walked over to her desk.
"Y-Yes Ar-I mean Professor?" She said timidly and Arisa gave her a soft smile.
"How do you feel about flying?" She asked and the girl's eyes lit up a bit despite her personality.
"I...really like it." She said with a small smile.
"Looking at your paper, have you ever considered taking the exams to become a Dark Flier, Pegasus Knight or Valkyrie?" She said and many in the class began muttering to themselves in confusion.
"I...I've heard of the exams, but it requires a special seal to take the exam." Marianne said and Arisa thought for a moment.
"Hmmm...I know War Cleric would be good for Annette as well as Valkyrie for Marianne. Hm.." she thought to herself then spoke, "Yes, you do need a special seal. For now, I recommend working on a mage. Your job is to support your team when in battle. Reminding me, no one can train till after the mock battle! Do I make myself clear?" She yelled and was answered with "Yes Professor/Teach!" After that, the girl went back to her desk as Arisa still reading the documents.
- Evening -
"It's only the first day and she was brutal!" Linhardt gasped out as he set down his book.
He was currently in the library with a few others as they were studying for the homework assignment Professor Hanneman had assigned them, but he was talking about Arisa.
"Oh? Tried already? You think that was brutal. Wait till see the military training Professor Amir is going to make us go through." Edelgard said as she was writing down notes, trying to come up with a strategy plan for the upcoming mock battle.
"Lady Edelgard," Hubert spoke," I suggest we investigate the one called Chris as well as Alexandra." He said.
"I'm actually interested in Professor Alexandra." Linhardt said and Edelgard raised an eyebrow at him, "She said she has a Crest that makes her become hostile towards those with a specific Crest. I never heard of such feature. Still...after seeing how reacted to Claude and Sylvain...my first guess is that...hm...I wonder...could that be it...?" He began muttering to himself as Ferdinand made his way to their table.
"Good evening you three! I see you are doing well. I suppose after today's lessons we all need some rest." He sighs as he sat next Linhardt, setting across from Edelgard, "Still...she looks familiar..." he said.
"Battle of Offers." Edelgard said as she was focus on her notes.
"No, no. It's...her hair..." Ferdinand muttered and had eyebrows raised at him.
"Hey there!"
Everyone turned their heads sending the young boy named Dominic, who was holding a pile of books about cooking as well as a couple of stories about knights.
"Talking smack about Arisa and Alex already?" He said and Edelgard looked up to him with a raised eyebrow.
"Pardon?" The girl said, clearly not liking his form of speech.
"You heard me. Arisa can be a monster at times but she's nice once you get to know her. Same with Alex. By the way, names Dominic Valjean. My dad is a former knight of the Kingdom, but he prefers to have me in the Golden Deer House since my mom was from the Alliance before she became a knight of the Kingdom." He said as he walked away but quickly then walked back.
"You with the orange hair," he said to Ferdinand, who looked at him confused, "if you're already pinning for Arisa (Ferdinand: I am not!) Watch your back. Her brother isn't exactly fond of nobles...damn...this reminds of the one time she beat down a noble who proposed to her." He said and left before anyone even asked more questions.
"Someone proposed to the Professor?" Edelgard thought as she went back to her notes.
Then again, there was gossip around Enbarr about noble that proposed to mercenary but came back with broken teeth. Would it be wrong if she asked the professor about that?
Actually...never mind.
- The Next Day -
She should run. She should run. Away from this place that held so many bitter sweet memories from her days as Captain.
"Ugghhhh...why me?" Sandy grains as she was busy in the green house.
Florencio had returned to Remire Village while Jeralt was sent on a job with the other knights but her...she is being assigned to watch over the Monastery for a while. The older woman let go of another sigh as she gently tended the Almyran roses with love and affection. Almyran roses she had not seen in many years. The last time she saw them was when she was 5 years old before hell came down. She began singing a soft lullaby that was sung to her in her old days in her native tongue. Unknown to her, a young boy with dark black hair, tan skin, wore a brown shirt and dark brown shorts and shoes. On his waist was a green colored scarf with patterns of Almyra. The boy was silent as he heard the woman singing softly as she tended the flowers and carefully walked up.
"Excuse me?" And that sent the woman jumping like a cat in the air, then landing on all fours.
The boy could not help but erupt in laughter as the woman recovered from her shock, Sandy coughing as she stood up.
"Young boy, do not sneak up on me like that!" Sandy hissed as the boy was wiping his tears away from laughing so much.
"S-Sorry about that. It's just...haha! I never expected to see such a reaction from an adult." He said as Sandy sighs.
"Well next time don't." She said, "What's your name boy? Your accent...are you...?" She said and the boy nodded.
"Yes. My name is Cyril. And you are?" Cyril said as the two shook hands.
"Sandana. But call my Sandy if you want." She smiled warmly at him.
"I...heard you singing and I couldn't help but see who it was. I'm glad to see a fellow Almyran here." He said.
"Same. Are you a student here?" She asked and the boy shook his head.
"I'm not but I'm learning how to use a bow so I can protect Lady Rhea. She took me in and let live here. I do a lot of chores here as well as help out the staff." He explains and the woman nodded.
"That's like her alright." Sandy thought they spoke, "If you like, I will be happy to train you if you want." She offered.
The boy smiled softly and nodded.
"I think I like that." He said and pain ran through Sandy's chest as she saw the boy smile.
His smile reminded her of her older siblings when she was younger. She had unconsciously began patting the boy on the head, which sent him to look at her with wide eyes, but it was a feeling he welcomed. It felt warm.
"Oh!" Cryil suddenly said, "I just remembered. Seteth was looking for you!" He said as she stopped patting his head.
Sandy looked at him shocked and took a deep breath at the mention of Seteth's name. She knew it was only a matter of time till they met again and prayed they never did but now...
It was completely unavoidable.
[-]
In the morning, she taught the Blue Lions. Midday she taught the Golden Deer and during the afternoon, the Black Eagles. Right now, she was on a break inside the Blue Lions House, once more, reading the papers of her students. She took a sip of her tea and let go of a sigh.
"War Cleric would fit Annette." Sothis appeared as she looked through the papers with her friend, "Felix we should aim for Mortal Servant. Ingrid would be perfect for Pegasus knight. Ashe works best with Bows and Axes so Sniper or Wyvern Lord would be good for him. Sadi would be good to be Valkyrie since she specializes in reason magic. Lestia...hmm...she's a bit of a tough one." She said as they looked at the paper with a picture of Lestia on it.
"Axe, Sword, Bow, Faith, Brawling, Flying. Hmm...for now, let's get her ready for the fighters' exam." She muttered and heard the door to the classroom open.
She smiled softly as she saw it was Mercedes and Hymn was on her shoulder. The little pixie giggled playfully as the two arrived at the front of the desk, smiles on their faces.
"Mercie, it's been awhile." Arisa grinned as she stood up and hugged the older woman.
"You make it sound like it's been years!" Mercedes giggled softly as she hugged her back.
"It's been a few months since we've seen you aunty!" Hymn giggled as she hugged the woman's cheek and Sothis appeared, squealing as the little pixie hugged her also.
"I'm just so happy to see you again. When Dimitri asked me about you, I chose to stay silent because I wanted it to be a surprise." Mercedes giggled mischievously as Arisa looked at her a bit surprised.
"He has been asking about me?" She said and Sothis was muttering "Red flag! Red Flags!".
"He has. Why didn't you write a letter to him?! He has been worried since the Tragedy of Duscur. Arisa at this rate, the knight in shining armor will steal you away." She teased while Arisa laughed a bit nervously.
"Hahahah. Very funny." Arisa said, "But changing the subject, I'm glad to see you again Mercedes and Hymn. I'm currently on break but I still want to get some work done." She said as the woman looked over her shoulder and to the pile of papers on her desk.
"Well, this is perfect!" Hymn circled around them excitedly, "Mama came to invite you to drink tea with her, Hilda and Dorothea! I can't join you sadly because it's for "adults" but have fun!" Hymn said as she disappeared to a shower of pink dust, a rose marking was over Mercedes's left hand.
"How many know about Hymn?" Arisa asked as the two began to walk out of the classroom.
"Only Annie and Sadi know about her." Mercedes smiled as they walked towards the garden.
"I am curious..." Mercedes said, "How do you feel now about being a professor again?" She asked.
"It's only my second day but it feels normal. Reminding, we have the mock battle coming up. I'll speak with the rest of the class about it later today. I'm making a few plans." Arisa said as they arrived at the garden area.
It was much more beautiful in person. There were multiple tables wet up for students to have tea or eat food as well as a protection from the sun. The scent of different flowers filled her nostrils as she looked around. Red, white blue flowers of Fodlan. Pink daffodils from Sreng, white camellias from Brigid, and yellow roses of Almyra, all growing. At a table near the corner, Hilda waved excitedly from the table she was sitting at Dorothea and Lestia?
"I invited her." Hilda said as she saw the questioning look Arisa has as the princess sat between her and Dorothea.
Mercedes sat down along with Arisa, the forest haired woman already eyeing the pastries as Dorothea served them both a cup of rose hip tea.
"Good afternoon Professor! Glad we can finally have girl time!" Hilda said excitedly as Lestia took a sip of her tea.
"Thank you." Arisa said to Dorothea, who gave her a smile.
"It was only your first day yesterday and you have an air of mystery around you." Hilda began talking, " Honestly, the you gave your speech yesterday, you scared a whole lot of us but seeing how kind you were at helping Marianne as well as Dominic, you're not so scary after all." She said while Arisa pulled a strand of her hair behind her ear, a habit she has always had even before she was born to this word.
"I must admit." Dorothea said, "I was surprised to see you here. It has been 4 years and I never got to thank you nor your brother properly. So even it is a bit late, thank you for saving me and the people of the opera company." She smiled softly to her and Arisa nodded.
"You sure traveled a lot..." Lestia suddenly spoke as she stared down at her tea as she rose it near her lips, "You have many names as a mercenary but now that the monastery knows you are Kiana Kalsana (Hilda/Dorothea: Excuse me?!) Which one should we call you by?" She said calmly.
"Keep calling me Professor." Arisa smiled and Lestia looked up to her.
"Edelgard and Dimitri have been trying to track you down for 4 years." Her eyes held this glint that made Arisa have her guard up.
"Ooohhh~ Everyone knows that Dimitri is pinning on her! That's obvious!" Hilda giggled along with Mercedes.
"Oh! I have something to tease Eddie about now!" Dorothea said with a smirk.
"Now now," Arisa spoke, "let's not overdo it. I don't need people after my neck already." She said as Lestia took a sip of her tea.
"Hmmmm...who knows... " And Arisa knew she was going to be in trouble because the smirk Lestia suddenly had, " I still remember when we were kids, Dimi (Dimitri's nickname) would always cling to you when we would sleep together as well as how you would hug him closely to you! Ooh! When you would sing lullabies to us, and his eyes would sparkle at your voice!" Arisa was suddenly very scared at beaming closed eye smiles the girls were giving her as Lestia continued to speak, "He still has the scarf you gifted him! Ohhh! And I also manage to get out of him that the two of you exchanged daggers!" She said mischievously.
"I suggest you run for your life." Sothis was cackling next to her while Arisa had buried her face in her hands.
The three other women were very happy enjoying the tea that was just spilled to them.
"And don't get me started on Edelgard!" Lestia snickered, "How she loved it when you would braid her hair along with Chris! Ohh! How you taught her how to dance! Oh! Even helped her how to sing properly!" She grinned and Dorothea was enjoying everything she was hearing.
"Okay Lestia, I think that is enough." Mercedes giggled as she now felt a bit sorry for her friend, who had her face still covered.
"Wow Lestia, showing no mercy at all!" Hilda giggled as she turned back to the Professor, "But still, to hear a side of you I did not know of. You may act all cool but you're a sweetheart inside and out." She said.
"Make sure Claude does not hear of this or else my brother will never live it down." Lestia cackled evilly.
"I see you all are the same." Arisa chuckled a bit as she finally unhid her face, revealign a ery light shad eof pink on her cheeks.
"Who knows? Who knows? Only time will answer those question if we are the same or not." Lestia said, "But now changing to a more serious topic," the smile on Lestia became a thin line as she spoke, "Why did you not write letters to us? At least some form of contact with us? One letter from you once a year would have been enough." Arisa could hear the hidden pain in her voice as the girl continued, " Sometimes I wondered if it would have been better if you and Amir stayed but if you did...sigh...you would not be here now." She finished and Arisa smiled sadly at her.
"But I'm here now Lestia. Like I said to you and many others, even if I am not there physically, I will always be there." She pointed to the girl's heart, "As long as your memory of me lives, I live on." She said.
"I hate it when speak like that." Lestia chuckled, "You win. But know this, I'm not letting you escape your embarrassment." She smiled and suddenly Arisa felt dread.
The 2 hours, Lestia spilled a lot of things that made the woman what dig a hole and bury herself alive, all while Sothis was howling, listening to the stories of her friend's past once again. She was there and witnessed it all. It did not help that Mercedes, Hilda and Dorothea were present.
[-]
"You wanted to speak with me?"
Sandy's voice came out so void of emotions as she stepped into Seteth's office. The man let go of a sigh as he motioned her to sit down, across from him while he sat at his desk. The woman did just that and there was tense 1-minute silence till he spoke.
"Rhea needs you investigate a rebellion that is growing in the Kingdom." He began and Sandy already knew where this was going, spying. "We received a report from one of our knights about a suspicious individual. We need you to keep an eye on them for the next two months." He said and Sandy was not pleased.
"Very well then. When do I head out?" She said.
"In 3 days." He said as he took out a map and handed it to her.
The woman opened it and instantly her eyes widened.
"L-Lord Lonato?!" Sandy choked out, "Oh, no, no, no! I knew he was still furious but this?!" She said and instantly glared at him, "This could have been prevented if you fools haven't executed the boy! Did Rhea fear so much of her power slipping to the point she ordered the execution of a boy that was proved innocent multiple times?! Having him executed based on rumors?!" She snarled.
"That is enough Sandana! I understand how you feel but this must be quelled! We do not nee-" she slammed her hands on the desk, furiously.
"It very clear to me that she is using fear to demonstrate what happens to those that point their blades at her!" She growled out, "It is always the innocent that the blood is spilled instead of true ones that are guilty!" She grabbed the map and headed to the door but Seteth quickly went in front of her.
"Where do you think you are going?" He said while she glared at him, "To pack my belongings of course! Might as well go now and try to throw some water at the flames you imbeciles cause!" She said back to him.
"Sandana, enough." He said calmly, "I will not allow you to speak like that about the church nor Rhea." He said and the woman rolled her eyes.
"Unbelievable...Un-fucken-Believable." She said as she ran her fingers through her hair, "It is clear to me none of you have learned your lesson. Especially that woman." She said coldly, "I will do the job but if any of the children get involved, do not expect me to hold back my tongue." She said and stormed past him.
Right when she opened the door, she heard a familiar squeal and looked down. Her eyes instantly softened as she saw the familiar smile and kind mint green eyes.
"Sandy!" Flayn said happily as she hugs the woman tightly, "I thought I recognized your scent! I am so happy to see you again!" The young girl said as the woman gently patted her head.
"It is good to see you again dear." Sandana said and Seteth could not believe the tender look the woman had when she was speaking to his daughter.
"I'm surprised you haven't burned down the kitchen yet." The woman teased as Flayn pouted to her.
"I have improved in my cooking! I can cook the Almyran fish dish you served me many years ago! Well...it's the only dish I know how to make." She said and Sandy chuckled.
"I'll teach you how to cook a few dishes when I have the chance. For now, I must go unfortunately. I have...a job to do..." she said that part bitterly as she looked over to Seteth with a "This isn't over." gleam in her eyes.
Flayn pouted as the woman patted her head and spoke.
"It's good to see you again Flayn." She smiled warmly and left.
There was a bit of silence till Flayn turned to Seteth with a frown.
"I hope you two were not arguing." She said.
"Flayn, it is none of your concern. This is regarding a serious mission that she was assigned to." He sighs and Flayn just gave him a blank look.
"Changing the subject," the girl said, "I met Cirina." And Seteth instantly turned to her, "She wasn't happy seeing me. I understand why..." she muttered sadly.
"Flayn...that girl...is not Cirina." Seteth said and his daughter was confused.
"Yes, it was. How can it not be her? I even saw her eyes flickering with her Crest. Yet, I do admit, her scent is a bit different." Flayn admitted.
"The girl's name is Alexandra. She is Cirina's incarceration. For now, I recommend staying far away from her. We do not know how she will react with most of the descendants of the 11 Elites here." He said as he turned back to his work.
"I will not distance myself from her." Flayn said firmly, the man whipped around quickly, "I will not have the past repeat itself once more. You and the rest of our family isolated her from us except me and Melody. Alexandra may be Cirina's incarceration, but I will not shun her like you all did. She is still family in a way, and I will treat her like one. Though I understand if she may harbor my friend's emotions, like you said, they are two different people." And with that, she left.
Seteth slumped on to his chair, and groans loudly into his hands.
This day just kept getting better...
- 1 week Later -
"Now, I only brought up the topic a few times but today we'll be having a full discussion regarding the mock battle next week." Arisa said to the Blue Lions as she did a full detailed drawing of the field they were going to be battling in, "Each house will have their professors as well as 4 members that will be part of the battle. For this, while reading your papers, I have decided who are the four that will be participating in this event." She said and many had excited looks.
"Like usual, the House Leaders must participate but since there are two, only one of you will go." She explained.
Lestia already knew Arisa was going to choose Dimitri, he was the better choice in her opinion. Seems everyone thought the same till their Professor opened their mouth.
"Lestia, you will be leading the group." Arisa and shock filled everyone.
Dimitri could not believe what he was hearing as he looked over to his sister, who had turned to stone.
"W-What?" Lestia could barely say as Arisa turned back to the map.
"You heard me. I have seen Dimitri's skills already, but I have yet to see yours. So, for this run, I will be having you lead the Blue Lions. As for the team, Dedue, Felix, Lysithea and Sadi, I'm having you four for this team." She said.
"I'll make them go boom!" Sadi said and got a head smack from Ingrid.
"Hold on?! Me!?" Lysithea said and Arisa chuckled.
"Sadi will be supporting while you will be the attack damage dealer along with Dedue and Felix. However," she turned back to the class, "I will not be giving the orders. Lestia will." And all eyes went to the princess.
"Wait, Lestia?! Professor you can't be serious?! Lestia is horrible at giving instructions!" Felix said and the princess sent him a glare.
Arisa gave them a closed eye smile then spoke.
"Hoooooo? So, you question my judgment?" She said and shook her head, "I am no idiot Felix. I know when I see potential, and in this case" she turned to the girl, "I want Lestia to show her true potential. I know you will do well. I have faith in you." She said and the princess let go of a sigh.
"Professor if I may speak," Dimitri said as she nodded to him, "why did you not choose me? Am I lacking something?" He said.
"Not really." Arisa answered, "You make a fine leader however your judgment is a bit clouded. You have the tendency of charging in first and forgetting the dangers around you. Though this is a mock battle, in a real fight you could get killed. One must be aware of their surroundings. That is important." Arisa said as she turned back to the map and circled the forest area, "This area of the forest is perfect for ambushes. Perfect for snipers as well as others to hide then strike. Next, we have those that use magic. Now...Lestia," she did a side glance to the princess who raised an eyebrow, "I believe a certain Deer will make his scheme here. I trust you understand what I mean?" And instantly the princess began smirking.
"Oh, I understand." Lestia giggled evilly.
Dimitri face palms along with many. They had many questions regarding the Professor's sanity right now. Why would she choose Lestia of all people?
"We're doom."
[-]
"And that's what happened." Sylvain said as he was sitting down across from Claude in the dining hall.
It was the evening, and everyone was getting dinner. Sylvain told the Golden Deer leader about only Lestia and not the rest of the team for obvious reasons but still!
"Lestia huh? This is going to be interesting." Claude said as he took a bite of his food, "Still, you guys sound like you don't trust her. You guys have such little faith in her?" He said and Sylvain coughed.
"Well...I grew up with her. I know how she is. But...I'm worried about how she really is going to play things out." He said as he remembers their maiden battle.
Lestia was like him. Someone who put on a mask to who they truly were. He knows the struggles his friend has gone through as a Faerghus princess. The countless times he has seen her burn to ashes marriage proposals, the anger that raged through her eyes. In a way, she was like him.
"I'm looking forward to what she comes up with." Claude said, "It is not every day we see a princess in action." He said.
"We saw Edelgard kick your arse." Sylvain said which caused the Reigan heir to chock.
"Shut up." Claude grumbled as he gulped down his drink.
Sylvain chuckled and turned as they heard footsteps enter the dinning. He smiled as he saw it was Alexandra who was reading a book. Claude raised an eyebrow as he saw the redhead smiling then turned, seeing Alexandra sit down with her tray, eating food while reading.
"Say," Claude turned to him, "what is your relationship with Alex?" He said and Sylvain blinked.
"She lets you call her by her nickname?" Sylvain said, "Well, might as well answer. Alexandra and I used to be engaged when we were kids." He said Claude instantly frowned.
"Engaged? To you?" Claude said with a smile.
"Yeah. She isn't a noble anymore but she was always kind to me despite...her situation." Sylvain said a bit unsure.
"Don't worry." Claude said, "I know what you mean. I experienced it." He said as he remembers the attack.
"Sylvain." The two looked up and saw Lestia walking up to them, and Claude smirked.
"Hey there princess. Heard the news about you getting chosen as the leader." He said and he was expecting her halty attitude to come but instead, he was ignored.
"Sylvain. I need your help with something." She spoke as if he wasn't there and the two men raised an eyebrow.
"Uh...sure your highness? What do you need?" He said.
"Do you have some of that sticky black water near your territory?" She said and Sylvain frowns.
"Hey...I don't think that's a good idea." He said and Lestia smiled.
"Don't worry. Besides," she turned to leave, "I don't need to live in my brother's shadow." Was all she said and left.
"Uhhh...what just happened?" Claude said.
"This is very unlike her."
[-]
"YOU MADE THE STUPIDEST MISTAKE OF YOUR LIFE!" Lestia roared at Arsia in the classroom.
It was now late at night and Arisa was grading a few papers while Lestia stormed in, pissed.
The woman looked up to her as spoke.
"Lestia, tell me why you are against it? And if your argument is reasonable, then I will put Dimitri in charge." Arisa said as she put her quill down.
"Why me of all people?! You saw how everyone was against it! The looks I got from everyone as well all them say they were pretty much doom. You said you want to see me in action, but you already have! Plus, I'm the least trustworthy for this task." She argued then Arisa spoke.
"Is that what you think of yourself? Untrustworthy? Unable to match up to others?" Arisa said.
"Look..." Lestia sighs, "Dimitri would make a far better leader than me. I am to support him for when he becomes king. My job as a princess is-!" Arisa spoke, making her stop talking.
"Lestia you are not less than Dimitri! You are both equals! Despite being a princess, even you are a leader! I'm not an idiot! I saw you study the books I assigned Hubert and Sylvain 5 years ago. Do you truly just want to live in one's shadow? Do truly want to remain the role of just a princess?" Arisa said and the princess became tense.
She's pushing it and she's doing it on purpose. Arisa knows that Dimitri and Lestia are constantly compared. Especially Lestia. The girl puts on a mask to hide her true self and does out of self-defense. She despises how society compares her achievements to Dimitri who many call the embodiment of a perfect knight compared to her who is called the embodiment of misery and foolishness. Lestia has grown up in Dimitri's and Zander's shadows despite their father loving them all equally. The girl sighs as she slumped on a desk.
"I'm just..." she couldn't speak, she just couldn't find the right words.
Arisa smiled sadly as she stood up and patted the girl's head.
"I believe in you Lestia. I know you all have gone through many hardships in life, but will you let those tie you down?" Arisa said as the girl looked up to her sadly.
"I just...don't want to embarrass us." Lestia answered.
"You won't be my friend. I know it. I trust you Lestia, have a bit of confidence in yourself." Arisa said.
Lestia was silent as the older woman hugged her warmly to her chest.
To hear such words made her chest ache. She may have grown up as a noble but she knows she wasn't fully accepted by half the nobles of Faerghus only saw her as potential to give birth to an heir to which ever house she was forced to marry. She didn't want that. She was beyond grateful when her Uncle Rufus would defend her from nobles like Count Rowe who suggested she start looking at marriage proposal letters and that got him a huge glare from Cassandra's brother Erik, a glare that sent the Count 90 ft deep underground. The words Arisa told her were the same word her father, Lord Rodrigue, and Emily would tell her. But what did they know? What about how she felt? Arisa in a way was a therapist and it was the same case with Chris. How she missed her stepbrother. The two would listen to her ranting and woes, and only spoke when they needed to. The news of his death along with Gina's right after the death of her father and stepmother felt like if the world was dropping the guillotine on them. Lestia may look fine on the outside but on the inside was a different story.
"You won't change your mind?" Lestia muttered and Arisa shook her head.
The princess sighs as she let go of a bitter smile. She has her work cut out.
- 1 week later: Great Tree Moon: April 30th -
Up and early everyone woke up, getting ready to head to the Outskirts of Garreg Mach. Everyone got their training weapons ready as they set out. It was a bit of a chilly morning not to mention Ferdinand was a bit prideful because it was his birthday. Promising a grand victory to the black Eagles would be the best gift he kept saying. Poor Edelgard groans as everyone arrives on the field. Everyone was excited for it but all but one had not said a word as the house leaders talked.
"Ah! It's finally time for the mock battle. I'm eager to see how things go. And you Professor?" Dimitri said to Arisa.
"I'm looking forward to it." Arisa said as Lestia had not said one word, she seemed to be lost in thought.
"Excellent. I have high expectations for your command. That said, I have no doubt it will take everything we've got to pull a victory." He said with an excited smile.
That was the thing... seems he forgot that Arisa will not be commanding them at all. Seems the Blue Lions were still hoping she would take command. Nope. She will not. This was her test to see if they could really pull off a victory without her. It was cruel but it needed to be done.
"Our opponents are mighty, that much is certain. But I'm positive we can win." He said and still not one word from Lestia.
The girl was still lost and thought to the point she completely drowned out the argument that was going on between her brother, sister and cousin. She turned to look up to see Edelgard saying she will destroy them, and it was for them to learn a thing or two. Lestia still had not said a word as Arisa looked at her worried.
"Haha, there's nothing wrong with a friendly rivalry, but let's not get carried away. A rash attitude could be your undoing after all." Dimitri said as he looked over to Lestia.
"Why are you looking at me?" She finally spoke.
"Hmmm...Perhaps your time would be spent preparing instead of worrying about the competition's mind set." Edelgard said.
"The mind set huh?" Lestia let go of a sigh as the three leaders turned to her.
"Lestia, please take this seriously. I understand you oversee helping lead our classmates but remember, you are to work as a team." He said and Lestia was silent.
"Lestia, are you alright?" Claude said.
"No. No, I'm not." Shock filled the three leaders as the princess turned to her brother with a strange look in her eyes.
"Let's just say...I'm tired of being left in your shadow." And with that she walked away, while Arisa was hiding her grin, barely.
"What the hell did you do to piss her off?" Claude said.
"I did not do anything!" Dimitri defended himself while Edelgard hummed.
"Aw! How precious. Looks like you and the students have become fast friends." Manuela said as she and Hanneman walked up to them.
"While I am pleased that you are taking the initiative to acquaint yourself with the students, I'm afraid it's time for the faculty strategy meeting." Hanneman said.
"Good luck all of you." Arisa smiled and left with the Professors.
While that happened, Edelgard looked over to the building corner to see Lestia looking over the map with a blank face. It worried her a bit. Lestia had always been the girl to have no problem showing how she really felt but right now, Edelgard couldn't read her at all. The imperial princess narrowed her eyes as the princess put away her map and walked away. What was she up to?
[-]
"I'm very concerned with how this will play out. I never have been in command of the princess." Dedue said to Sadi as the girl has training sword on her waist and bow strapped onto her back.
"Get used to it." Felix said as he crossed his arms, "The demon is just like the boar. She charges first without thought." Felix said as Lestia walked up to the Blue Lions.
"So, all of you have little faith in me then?" She said and everyone instantly turned to her, Arisa was behind her, "I'm disappointed. But I guess that is what you all expect of the Bitch Princess of Faerghus." She said.
"Now wait just a moment!" Annette said, "That isn't true!" She said and it seems the others could hear the argument about to start.
"Lestia, why wou-!" Dimitri did not finish as the girl twirled her iron axe and ended with a slash.
"Well listen up!" The princess yelled out, "The battle is about to begin, and our victory depends on my leadership! I will not be looked down on simply because of who I am! Will not be left in the shadows of my brothers! Just like them, I will prove to myself that I too can lead!" She yelled out and Claude had a smirk growing on his face as many looked at the princess in shock.
"I will create my own path this is the start! If you have little faith and trust in me, then step forward! I am Lestia Flora Blaiddyd! Princess of The Storms and that is what I shall deliver!" She said and turned to Arisa, who had a proud smile.
Jeralt could help but smirk along with Chris and Amir.
"She's grown." Christian muttered.
"They both have. My three little siblings aren't children anymore." Heather's voice ran in his mind as everyone got into position.
The Black Eagles led by Hanneman at the altar far to the right near the rocky terrain while Manuela with the Golden Deers were near the forest. Arisa stood at her altar as the 4 students got ready. Each of them felt a small pinch of pain in their heads then jumped when the princess's voice ran in their heads.
"Good! Looks like my spell worked." Lestia said.
"What is this?" Lysithea said as she only saw the princess smile.
"Telepathy. I can communicate and give commands to you like this, so I won't be yelling them out." Lestia said in their minds as the other Blue Lions went up the hill where the rest of the students were, along with her father who will be overseeing the battle.
Amir, Christian and Alexandra were also watching along with Seteth and Flayn. She wished Sandy was present but unfortunately, she had a different job to be at. At least Shamir was there.
Arisa was silent as she watched the silent communication between the four students and looks of confusion on Felix was a bit funny. Originally, she should be taking command, but she won't. Lestia then looked over to her with a bit of nervous look but it was wiped away, when Arisa gave her a nod. The princess grin was real that even Edelgard was stunned to silence. Lestia turned back to the field as she gave one last look at each of her classmates, who were still a bit unsure but nodded. They had to trust her. On the field of the Black Eagles, was Hubert, Dorothea, Edelgard, Ferdinand and Hanneman. On the other side were the Golden Deer, Claude, Hilda, Lorenz and Ignatz. Dimitri watched from the hill worried as the princess took a deep breath and spun her axe once more, then opened her eyes, smirking. Now there was the look of a warrior that Jeralt knew. Someone who finally found resolve. Lestia took a giant deep breath yelled out her war cry, making it clear to everyone she had no intention to lose.
"LET'S DANCE!"
Chapter 37: New Start: Part 1: Change in Flow
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Let the mock battle begin!
Okay, so to answer the questions. The Lore I created for clans like wolf skin and such is similar to the ones in other games just a bit different. Instead, these clans have lived in Fodlan long before Sothis arrived. They used to live peacefully with the Agarthans, children of the Goddess and Sothis. However, like with the canon lore of the game, the Agarthans began to change and see themselves as gods. Back to chapter 25, I gave a small preview of how these clans were during the time before the War of Heroes, when Rhea was gathering her army. The clans chose not to be part of the war but there were a few members that did choose to participate. Other than that, they isolated themselves because they did not wish to join the wars. If you also read chapter 24, I also said of how some of the people of Fodlan view the clans.
Because the clans choose not to participate in the war, they have a rocky relationship with The Church of Serios or more specifically, Rhea. Their history is the one that Rhea chose to hide. Also, as we all know, the True History of Fodlan, which puts Rhea on edge. However, the clans chose to continue to live in isolation. There have been a few brave members that have chosen to live with the people of Fodlan peacefully as well as some use magic to hide their clan's features. Now, to keep a stable relationship with the church, also to show they do not wish to be involved in their affairs, every 10 years, 1 individual from two clans are chosen, are sent to study at the Officers Academy. In the past, those chosen decided to hide their features using magic, to make themselves look like normal humans. But for this year, Selkie being the brave one, chose not to hide her heritage. I'm leaving the reactions of the students when they first met the girls for a paralogue I have planned in the future. It will be a memory fragment of some sort.
Sandy's and Seteth's relationship are off to a rocky start along with Flayn's and Alexandar's. Plus, the small interaction I added with Tomas, things for the relationship with those for will come into full play during Flayn's kidnapping, the Rite of Rising as well as The Remire Village chapter. Also, Heather will make a few appearances but her main role isn't till The Battle Against Solon and the 5-year time skip. As for Henry, Edelgard's youngest sibling that is now ten years old, his role is more towards the 5 year time skip.
Finally, we have Lestia. I only introduced a portion of how she is in Season 1. Now it's time to see her back story and why she is the person she is as well as why she hides her crest.
All that will take place next time on the next episode of Fire Emblem Three Houses Z!
(I am not sorry for that reference! [cackles])