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)

43. Chapter 42:Bloody Mist:Part 2:Records

- 990: years ago-

"Where...where...where is the rest?!"

It was difficult to concentrate with being the only one in a tent as well as having to be on constant guard. Checking the map, he kept looking at the circled parts that were crossed out. War has tarnished the land once more and honestly, he was pissed by his sister, Noa, was right. Brothers and sisters that were sent out by their mother to guide the humans ended being slaughtered. His brother that ruled the reign of what is Gautier, was killed in cold blood. But Lejare did not blame the humans for their actions. His sister was fucken right and he did not feel one bit of sorrow when news reached of the death of his brother. He was a tyrant and did the exact opposite of what the teachings their mother showed them all. He understood why the humans saw the 11 Elites as Heroes. Nemesis desired to free his people from the rule of Nabatean. They helped many victims that were ruined by war. They were loved by the people. But Lejare knew damn well that the Agarthans used Nemesis as nothing but a pawn to exact their revenge on The Nabateans. And they succeeded. Sothis was killed in her slumber.

"Hey, uncle. It's me."

Lejare took a deep breath as the flaps of his tent opened and in came Cirina. The young little trouble maker he knew was now replaced by a girl with void blue eyes, long messy blue hair that stopped at her knees, her clothing was kimono that stopped hallway to her knees, blue tights, on her waist, were strapped multiple swords, and she wore black boots. There were dark circles under the eyes. It's been 5 years since she chose to join Serios, she was just 15 years old back then. She grew and aged compared to Cethleann who haven't aged one bit.

"How can I help you Cirina?" Lejare said as she gave him a soft smile.

He was one of the few who truly cared about her and treated her well. Cirina walked to one his chairs and sat down, propping her elbows on her thighs, and resting her chin at the palm of her hands.

"Uncle...is it wrong for me to wish to no longer be part of this war?" She said and he shook his head.

"It is not Cirina. You have every right to think that way. I understand how you feel but we must see this war to the end." He said to her and she nodded.

"Thank you, uncle. I'm glad you were the one to hear me out. If Serios had heard...I can guarantee she take the opportunity to call me a coward and a failure in front of everyone." Cirina said as he knelt down to her and she looked to him sadly, "Uncle, I could have left...I could have still chosen to not take part of this. But now looking back to my 15-year-old self, I wanted to prove to Serios that I am proud of both my Nabatean and Agarthan blood. My pride kept me going. But now, that pride is wavering." She said and he wiped a tear that fell from her eye.

"I know you and Reigan have been seeing each other in secret." He said and felt her become tense, "While I know the others would call you a traitor, I know that is not the case. You and Reigan have been exchanging information. And like me, theory confirmed..." Lejare let go of a side, "The 11 Elites had no idea what Nemesis did. The woman that killed Noa was not Lamine but...Anacharis. The leader of monsters of the Sea." He sighs as Cirina begins shaking.

"M-Mother's...Former Master...?" She choked out and Lejare nodded.

"Noa and Anacharsis once worked together but when the woman began to get full of herself, well...you know how that went down. Noa put her in her place. And worse...Odesse wields your father. They took your mother's ashes days after you all left Zanado. Now..sigh..." he sat across from her and pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Uncle," Cirina said, "Our next battle is to take the port at the south of the Empire correct?" She spoke monotonously.

"Cirina...you wish to take back your father and mother..." he said as she stood up.

"I do. I think it's time I take back what once was mine. To take back my mother and father. Thankfully Serios will oversee taking down the fort near the border of the Empire. So, I'm asking is to leave the ocean to me." The fire in her eyes said it all.

She wanted to kill the man that killed her father and mother. She never once forgot his face.

"Since I am part of the war council, I will make sure I get you that position. The battle is in two days, make sure to have Ui, Vernata, Hades and Bladr ready. Once we take this port, it will be a major asset to us." He said and nodded firmly.

"Thank you, Uncle." Cirina smiled sadly at him.

"Do not thank me Cirina. You have more than proven yourself multiple times. If Serios cannot accept it, then she is blind." He patted her head.

"By the way," she said as she looked at the map, "I noticed you have been constantly looking at the maps and certain locations recently. What are you looking for?" She asked.

"The rest of the remains of your grandmother." He said as he looked at the map and she turned him shocked.

"What?! But I thought..." she said and he shook his head.

"Only the spine and tail bones were used to make the Sword of The Creator. If my theory is correct, then they have yet to use the rest of the bones." He said as he touched a specific location, "The rest of the remains of Sothis...have yet to be made into weapons." He had to keep himself from smirking.

"But one problem." He turned to Cirina, "Even if you do find the rest of Grandma's remains, what will we do? If we try to hide them, it will only be a matter of time till the Agarthans find them again. And let us not forget that the one in charge of making weapons for them is Chilon." She said.

"I know. And that's where you come in." He said and she blinked multiple times.

"Macuil has taught you his skills as a blacksmith. You made multiple weapons besides him for our army." Lejare said.

"Wait..." the feathers on her head went stiff up, "you want to turn the rest of grandmother's remains...to weapons?" Cirina in a hoarse voice as he pointed to the map where the battle she will be going in a few days.

"Anacharsis wields a relic made of the wing bones of Sothis. So far, other than the tail bones and spine, I managed to confirm that Sothis's wings were turned to weapons. However, the rest of the remains must be scattered across Fodlan or possibly some have even been taken out of the country. Still...there is one piece of information I am missing and the worst part it's in Noa's library!" He slammed his forehead on the wall and mentally wept.

He can hear his twin sister in hell laughing smugly in her prideful tone of "Ooooooohohohoho!" Because the only ones that has access to the hidden library in Zanado were those who she allowed. The Great Library of Zanado was the one place Noa made sure was absolutely hidden. To this day, not even the Agarthans, humans and even Serios's army and Serios herself have been able to locate it. Lejare was damn sure if his sister was ever reincarnated back to this world, that would be the first place she would visit. She was put in charge of it by their mother of that place for it to record the history of the years that went by. So, it must have recorded where the other body parts were. He heard Cirina giggling as he slowly turned to her with a tired look.

"Hahaha! Forgive me Uncle. It has been years since I last saw you this frustrated with Aunty!" Cirina giggled and he couldn't help but chuckle seeing her happy.

"It's alright. But for now, go clean yourself up. The war council is soon." He said and she nodded.

[-]

"Absolutely not."

A tone colder than ice spoke in the tent of the war council as those of the Roundtable were silent as their eyes went to their leader. Long mint green hair tied into a braid; she wore a golden band crown around her head with the sides having wings. Her mint colored eyes were cold as they looked straight at the blue haired woman who looked back at her the same way. The older woman wore a white gown with gold a gold crown, with the symbol of Serios on it.

"First off!" Cirina said as she raised her index finger and pointed at the map, "You cannot treat the territory of the sea as the same as the mountains! You know damn well units of the ocean are my specialty as well as I have the spirits of the sea as my allies! And let us not forget!" She pointed to her own general, "Bladr is a professional in ships! Something you fail miserable at Serios!" Well she just blasted Serios the true reality at her horrible leadership when it came to the ocean.

Serios only became angrier as Cirina stood her ground, stabbing her dagger into the area of the port.

"That may be yours, but I and MY GENERALS specialize in areas you could never reach!" Cirina said coldly.

"That maybe so but how do we not know you are only doing this so inflate your ego? The last time you took charge it nearly cost us the border of the east (The Alliance)." Serios snarled at her.

"That was because you had the foolish idea of sending that arrogant priest to come so call help! They almost had to withdraw because some son of bitch refused to listen to the orders Hades, and I gave! We are tacticians! Not babysitters! We would have won that battle faster if that son of bitch listened to orders! But he didn't because he said he would not listen to anyone but you!" Cirina said.

"Serios, unfortunately I must agree." It was a huge surprise to hear Cichol of all speak against Serios about this, "If Jokoa had listened to Cirina's orders, there would have been less casualties. The takeover would have been done quicker and innocent lives would have not been lost. While I rarely disagree with you, this battle I have to vote to let Cirina and her generals to take care of it." He said as with a nod.

"I have to agree also!" Cethleann spoke, "Cirina has proven multiple times her leadership is well as well information gathering. She is fit for this fight." She said.

"Sigh..." Serios turned to Wilhelm, completely shocked hearing this, "Even I agree. Cirina, who have been able to clear the routes we need for trade. But be warned...the one leading that port..." he said and she nodded.

"I know. That's why I am going. To take back my father and mother. I will not allow Odesse or Anacharsis to run free with the body of my father and mother. Odesse wields a scythe made from the body of my father and Anacharsis a tome made from the ashes of my mother. I'm taking both back." She said as she raised her hand and balled it to a fist.

Lejare nodded as the two shared a quick glance, knowing well that they also plan to take back Sothis's wings. Serios gritted her teeth and spoke.

"Very well then. I shall allow it. Cirina, my order is to take back the port of the south. By doing, so, we shall be able to safely open trade with the lands of Dadga and Brigid as well as Morfis. Do not fail Cirina." Serios said as she swallowed her pride and Cirina nodded.

[-]

"Cirina, I wish to speak with you."

It was rare to see her Uncle Cichol want to speak to his niece. Lejare was silent as Cirina was sitting at a table writing down her final plans till Cichol walked in. She put the quill down and spoke.

"We can speak of it here." Cirina said as Cichol nodded to her.

He knew Cirina was distant with everyone but a selected few. Honestly, even he was surprised that he chose to speak up on her behalf. Perhaps it was because he could see how much the toll of this war has taken on her but also his own daughter. On all of them. Cirina did not like to be left alone with her own family except Cethleann, her friends and him.

"It is regarding...the battle of the port." Cichol said and she went onto her defensive side, "Bring back your father and mother." Her eyes went wide when he said, and she nodded to him.

"I swear I will Cichol. I will." She said as she went back to writing, not seeing the flash of pain that passed through his eyes.

Lejare stood up and followed his brother as he walked out the tent, the two made their way to the area near the end of the forest that had a nice view of the grass fields and the sky.

"I saw the pain that flashed in your eyes Cichol." Lejare said as the two were silent as they sat down on one of the boulders, "Give her time. Cirina still cares about you and the others." He said as he took out his tobacco pipe and lit it.

"Seriously, you're smoking still?" Cichol said and Lejare sent him a glare.

"Oh, shut it. Just let me enjoy this." He said.

"Fine. But...I wish Cirina would open to us like those years ago. I hate to admit it, but I miss her calling me Uncle." Cichol said and Lejare could not help but snicker at this, "Do not laugh!" He scowls at him.

"It's alright! Haha!" Lejare said and the two looked down the hill as they saw Cirina and Cethleann out in the grass field, dancing and singing together.

Fish made of water and wind surrounded the two as they sang, magic was fused into their song and Lejare could not help but smile, remembering Zuna, who created the magic the girls were using.

"So, they mastered "Lost Song." If Zuna and Noa were here, they would be proud." Cichol smiled softly as the girls danced together.

Then...

"In time flows! See the glow! Of flames ever burning bright!" Cirina sung the song their mother would sing to them, using her magic to create images of Sothis in the air.

Then the images changed to fae, different animals running through the wind. Even butterflies and such. It was a happy moment till Serios appeared and was storming over to the girls.

"On the swift! Rivers drift! B-!"

SLAP!

"You of all people are forbidden to sing that song!" Serios yelled angrily at the blue haired girl who only held her cheek in shock.

"Cirina!" Lejare yelled and quickly jumped down with Cichol, the two running to the girls.

Cethleann was frozen as Cirina slowly looked towards Serios, her eyes began to turn to slits, the grass underneath her began to freeze as frost spread, her hands began to turn to claws as her growls began to snarl.

"Grrrrrrrrrrerrrr!" A curled horn color of blue grew on her head and even Serios could not believe what she was seeing.

"Impossible...you...shouldn't have that ability..." Serios could barely choke as the next thing Cirina unleashed, was the roar of the Ice Dragon.

"RRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAHUHHHHHHHHHHH!

- Present Time -

"So let me get this straight..." Christian pinched the bridge of his nose, Alexandra covered her face with her hands, and Amir was rubbing her forehead, "You and Dimitri originally were discussing speaking to Lord Lonato, then Rhea came and spoke with you. Dimitri witnessed how much she frightened you and chose to stay even though you protested?" He said and Arisa nodded as she laid on her stomach on her bed, face buried in her pillow.

"Hmmmmm..." her muffled hum of yes was heard.

"So...YOU BOTH SLEPT ON THE SAME BED?! WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH BOTH OF YOU?! " And thank God she had a soundproof barrier in her room.

"Well that explains why he was such in a good mood this morning." Amir sighs, "At least it was something harms sleeping next to each other than something intimate. Chris, I'm looking at you." She said as he sent her a glare.

"Hey, Gina and I are married! Plus, we were secretly engaged before all shit went down!" Chris defended himself.

"Yet, Lestia caught you guys making out one time. Poor girl. And she was only 12." Amir said and Chris felt guilty.

"Oh, enough you two!" Sothis said as she appeared in her child form and sat next to Arisa, "I was the one that encouraged her to accept. Besides, if you three were there, you would have seen the effect Rhea had on Arisa...she brought her mother to the topic." And instantly Alexandra looked up to her.

"Sitri...Rosa, right?" Alexandra said as Arisa turned her head her way, boy did the woman have a hollow face right now.

"Rhea...brought up the face I made at her. She said it had been 21 years since someone made that face to her. That I remind her of my mother. Arrghhhhhhh! Seriously, I'm beginning to question myself if it's wrong I desire to not be compared to someone who has passed away!" She slammed her face multiple times on her pillow.

"What was that condition again..." Chris said as he walked up to her bookshelf and pulled out one her medical books, opening it till he reached a certain page, "Ah!" He snapped his fingers, "Oedipus complex! That's what Rhea has." He said.

"EEEEWWWWWWWW!" Arisa, Alexandra, and Amir all yelled out as Arisa abruptly sat up and hugged herself, shivering.

"Okay..." Sothis grimaced, "Back to the original subject before this all went south, the Prince of Faerghus only wanted to help Arisa feel better. Yes, I encourage it, but I think it was a good thing. Besides, it has been some time since you looked comfortable. Not to also mention the prince looked like he finally got some proper sleep!" Sothis giggled mischievously and Arisa just began groaning, and flopped back onto her bed, hugging tightly the stuffed dragon Gregory gifted her on her 10th birthday.

"Well, it is a slow day today so want to hit the tavern tonight? By the way, if you get wasted and start drunk singing again, Jeralt is going to carry you, not me. Also, I sent flowers to Sylvain as a birthday present. I remember he always liked the wisteria flowers that would grow in my father's garden, so I sent him a small wisteria flower tree. I think he likes it." Alexandra said and the others gave her a thumbs up.

Arisa sat back up and sighs as she took out the key Rhea gave her from her bra and stared at it a bit. The top part of the key was in the shape of a symbol she had never seen before. It looked a bit like a flower with spikes. But if she had a better way to describe it, it looked a bit more like a spider lily. She stood up and spoke.

"Anyhow, I'm going to check out this new room Rhea gave me. Amir, could you get Boey and Ferdinand for me? I'm having them help me clean this room as part of their cleaning duties today." She said and Amir nodded.

"But in all seriousness Arisa, please watch your back around Dimitri because I feel he's going to make the first move on you, or he already has. That boy is soon to pounce on you, and you aren't going to escape him easily." Amir said as she stood up and left out the door.

"Well, I got go. I'm giving a wyvern riding seminar today. And Hubert isn't escaping this one." Alexandra said as she started to walk out.

"What did Hubert ever do to you?" Arisa said as she noticed the slight edge in her friend's tone.

"More towards...oh fuck it. I caught him spying on me when I was speaking to Anna regarding some intel information on Cornelia. So, I'm teaching him a lesson. Got to be honest, I think Edelgard put him to keep a watch on us or even gather information." She said and left for the training grounds.

"So Edelgard is making her first move." Chirs said as he put back the book then crossed his arms, "Even with this, I'm going to be honest with you. Ever since Zanado...I'm starting to think everything we know of what will come in the future may go a different road. Kotas wasn't supposed to turn into a demonic beast. Where did he get that Crest stone? How did he get it? Who gave it to him? New questions and mysteries are popping up and I don't like it." He said.

"I know how you feel. But for now, we must do what we can. Those children, their paths are already changing. You must be careful from now on." Sothis said and the two nodded.

[-]

Thankfully the walk to the room near the green house was short. It was right next to it and thankfully the boys were there with the cleaning supplies. She couldn't help but chuckle seeing the wind aerials circling around them, and one even tried to flirt till her sister gave her a mini wing slap.

"Morning boys." Arisa said and they turned to her.

"Good Morning P-!" Ferdinand froze as she walked up to them and even the aerials were giggling among themselves at his face.

Arisa was wearing her dark mercenary uniform (female Byleth one) and her hair she had cut it short to her mid waist, her white lily pins she wore on the side of her, and a small back braid that was tied together with a dark green ribbon.

"Sorry for being a bit late. Had to take care of some business." She said as she stood in front of them.

Boey was the first to speak.

"No worries Professor. We went ahead and got some cleaning supplies. A few of the aerials decided to follow us." He said as the little ones flew up to Arisa.

"You had a terrible scare last night! Also, it has been a long time since someone stepped into this room." The aerial with pink hair said as she sat herself on her shoulder.

"Really?" Arisa said she turned to the door and took the key, "Who used to use this room then?" She said as she put on the key.

"Lady Sitri used to use this room." The aerial with green hair said and Arisa froze.

"Sitri?" Boey said and it seemed Ferdinand finally snapped out of his trance.

"I have heard the name before mentioned by a name named Aelfric. Well, for now, let us put the topic aside! Professor, have you unlocked the door?" Ferdinand said and Arisa gave a slight strained smile.

"Yes. One moment." She said and turned the key, then pulled open the door.

However,...

"Kyyyaaaa!" She ended up getting tackled by wooly bugs the minute she opened it.

"Are you alright?" Boey said because it seems he was used to seeing this...a lot.

"Yeah. Alright little ones, off you go." She gently removed them off her and a few flew away while two of them got comfortable on her left shoulder, "Alright alright. You can stay." She giggled as they nuzzled her cheek and, in the trio, went into the room.

Shelves and tables covered in white sheets as well as the curtains closed. She asked Ferdinand to go open them and that he did as well as the shutter windows to let the place ventilate a bit. With the curtains now open along with the windows, sunlight lit the room, she began to remove the white sheets off the shelves first, revealing in them were books about magic as well as medicine. Arisa began blinking multiple times as plucked one of the books and opened it. Inside written in nice handwriting were notes about different flowers and their meanings. As well as how they could be used in magic. Turned the page and began to read it.

Verdant Moon: 11th day: 1154

I believe that these flowers hold much more meaning when it comes to magic. I know plants have life but what if there was a way to use it like how I can use my voice and magic together? While the Archbishop don't approve of me using Lost Song, I think it is worth exploring more. Hmmm...perhaps I should pick a few flowers from the green house again?"

"Hmm...this person seems to have been researching a new form of magic or was creating one. Very interesting. Now, I usually am not nosy, but I say this is the perfect opportunity to look at these notes and books, and perhaps we can find some information we want." Sothis said to her as she floated nearby.

Arisa nodded as she put the book back and Sothis floated around, observing the trio clean. A few fae were in the room, some even doing small mischievous things to the children as they worked. Boey was using a lightly wet towel to clean the dusty tables while Ferdinand was removing the white sheets from the furniture. He fixed a few of the tables that were crooked and blew out the dust on a few of the materials. Now that he had a better look because of the light that had come in, the tables had books, jars of herbs, some even dried insects, bones or other materials. He saw a few beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, many test tubes in their racks. Mortar and pestle, forceps, and 24-hour hourglass. Maps nailed onto the walls, posters with different flowers, as well as few books about music books.

"Huh?" Boey said as he walked over to the far edge of the room and spotted something, "What's this?" He said and removed the white sheet only for the two males to cover their ears at a happy squeal.

The two turned to look over to their Professor in complete shock at what they just heard.

"Oh...umm..haha... sorry about that." Arisa said a bit embarrassed and Ferdinand chuckled.

"It's alright Professor. As a matter of fact, I'm glad you feel comfortable letting us see this side of you. I just admit, you seem much happier and your smile shines more." Ferdinand smiled warmly to her.

"Oh..." she rarely gets flustered, so his comment surprised her quite a bit, she had this habit of stroking her right long bang when she was flustered.

"Stop flirting with the Professor, Ferdinand." Boey bluntly said and the orange head looked at him shocked.

"Anyhow!" Arisa said as she walked up to the object Boey uncovered.

The warmest of smiles came onto her lips as she sat on the light golden colored cushioned bench as she gently touched the familiar white keys made of ivory and smiled at the black keys made of ebony. She looked at the instruments made of many kinds of wood such as birch, maple, fir, oak, mahogany, ebony, spruce and many other exotic ones. The feeling of familiarity as she placed both hands on the keys, her students carefully watching. She took a deep breath as she began with a simple tune to stir up her memories.

"Do~" she sang as her finger pressed down on the first key, "Re~, Mi~, Fa~" they students were silent as they listened to small tunes this strange instrument made.

It wasn't dangerous and the Professor seemed to be very happy seeing and even playing it. Arisa continued for just a bit more and then stopped.

"It's been so long...since I have played a piano like this." She said softly and Ferdinand spoke.

"So that is the name of this strange instrument. How curious. I have never seen or heard of such an instrument, yet you seem quite familiar with it. How does one use it?" Ferdinand said and Arisa smiled at them.

"Well you see, a pian-" unfortunately the conversation was interrupted.

Knock knock

The three turned towards the door and see Dedue knocking.

"Forgive me for interrupting but Professor, His Highness has asked me to escort you to the audience chambers. Ashe, Alexandra and he are ready to speak with Lady Rhea regarding the rebellion." He said and she stood up, nodding to him.

"Thank you Dedue." She said and turned to the other two males, "Boey and Ferdinand, please continue cleaning up here. Hopefully the meeting will not take long." She said and they nodded.

"Professor," Ferdinand said as she was about to leave but she stopped, "Be safe." He gave her a small smile.

Arisa did not know why, but she shyly looked away and nodded. Something about the boy gets her easily flustered for some reason. She began to walk with Dedue down the hallway. It was a comfortable silence and Dedue then spoke.

"His Highness seemed to be in a good mood this morning. You wouldn't happen to know now would you, Professor?" He gave her a small smile and Arisa chuckled a bit nervously.

"Well...other than he told me he got a good night's sleep (Sothis: Well I wonder why~) he and I discussed the situation with Lord Lonato while enjoying some tea. I'm glad to see he is well." She said and Dedue nodded.

"If I may be honest with you...I still worry for him." Dedue said and Arisa looked at him worried.

"I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you all." She said and he shook his head.

"It is alright Professor. Duchess Emily explained to us the situation that was happening, and we understood. I admit, it was difficult at first for me and my sister since we were not used to such surroundings. As well adapting to Sadi's new way of speaking." He said and she blinked multiple times.

"Wait, Sadi did not speak in third person before?" Arisa thought as Dedue continued.

"But Emily helped us all. She was our therapist for quite some time despite her busy schedule. It...felt nice having someone to talk to. As well as Hessian and the owls we got along with. But once again, I thank you, Amir, and his Highness for saving our lives that day. I am in your debt." He gave her a small bow and she smiled warmly to him.

"There is no need to thank Dedue. You are family and I will always help out those important to me." She said and his eyes widened.

"Family?" He said and she nodded.

"Yes. Family. Did I offend you?" Arisa said, a bit worried.

"No no! I am just surprised. It's just, you are the 8th person to say that to me and my sister. His Highness Dimitri, Her Highness Lestia, His Highness Zander as well as Lord Kuza, Duchess Emily, Lord Glenn and Lady Amir...they have all told us we are like family to them. Thank you." He smiled at her warmly and she nodded.

"You're welcome. Ah, we arrived." Arisa said as they arrived at the doors of the audience chambers.

Dedue noticed how tense Arisa came as she looked as she was glaring at the doors, and her right hand was balled into a fist. Honestly, she did not even want to be near this place right now since last night's conversation. She took a deep breath and nodded as turned to Dedue.

"Thank you Dedue for walking with me. If you have free time, perhaps we could have some tea together." She said and he nodded to her.

"It would be a pleasure. Do we well Professor." He said and bowed before he left.

Arisa waited a few seconds and opened the door carefully. Inside was Alexandra, Ashe and Dimitri as well as Lady Rhea and Seteth.

"Forgive me for being late. I was doing some clean up." Arisa said as she walked towards them and Rhea smiled.

"It is alright. How was the room?" Rhea asked and Arisa spoke.

"It was nice. It's a pretty size magic lab. I think it'll work out well for my research." She said and Rhea nodded.

"That is good to hear." Rhea smiled.

Unknown to everyone, from three different secret spots in the audience chambers, Claude, Lestia and Sadi were listening in on the conversation, hoping to hear what they could.

"Now, what did you wish to speak to us about?" Seteth said and Arisa gave the nod of approval to Dimitri and Ashe.

"We wish to speak with Lord Lonato to try and quell the rebellion without violence." Dimitri said and Rhea frowned.

"Pardon?" She said as she raised an eyebrow at them.

"Please Lady Rhea, let us try to speak with my father. I understand that turning a blade to the church is treason, but I don't want to see innocent people die. My brother and sister are still kids and I worry for their safety. There must be some way to end this without violence." Ashe said and Arisa was a little surprised to hear him speak up.

Rhea's aura seemed to be plummeting from what Dimitri was feeling and right when she was about to speak, Alexandra spoke.

"I wish to try and speak to Lord Lonato as well. As a former noble of the Kingdom, I have a connection to him. He was a friend of my fath-!" Rhea's tone became cold as ice as she interrupted her, that everyone was surprised by this.

"I know very well what your connection to Lord Lonato, Alexandra." Rhea said as she turned to her, "When you suddenly burst into the audience chambers two days ago, you said the name of a very dangerous man. That man, if you were to even look at him, would activate your Crest and put everyone around you in danger. We do not need someone like you in this situation. Professor Byleth is more suited for this since she has a much deeper connection to him." She said clearly and Alexandra was stunned.

"Excuse me, but I must speak on this." Arisa spoke, "I may know Lord Lonato but such deep connotations I do not have. Yes, I was a friend of his oldest son but that was it. Alexandra is far more suited for this than I!" She said.

"And why is that Professor?" Rhea said and Alexandra had it.

"Because I am Lord Lonato's granddaughter!" Alexandra roared and everyone looked at her shocked.

Not even Arisa knew this. No one did.

"What?" Ashe said as he looked over to his instructor, as she placed her hand on her chest.

"My true name is Alexandra Xiang Aubin. I was known as Ymir many years ago, but I discarded the name my mother, Cornelia, gave me and chose to use the name my father gave me. Lord Lonato was a close friend of my father and our family were allies. To him, he considered me a granddaughter." She said and turned to Dimitri, and bowed, "Forgive me for hiding for all these years that I was alive, your highness. But it had to be done or else Cornelia would have hunted me down to turn me to her human experiment. That is why I have these scars all over me." She said and he looked at her shocked.

Oh, Claude was enjoying seeing how pissed off Rhea looked with Alexandra revealing her true identity. But why was the Archbishop against Alexandra going? She said she said the name of a dangerous man that could cause her to activate her Crest...

"Please Lady Rhea. Let us go and speak with him." Dimitri said and Rhea took a deep breath.

It was clear that Rhea did not want to let them go and but the way she looked at Alexandra, Arisa was starting to worry that Rhea is also expecting or trying to prevent something that is going on with her friend. If Rhea learns that Cirina's or Sothis consciousness has awoken within them, they'll be damned. It'll be much worse if she learns that Chris bears the Crest of Flames and some of Sothis's power as well. Unfortunately, the two siblings have yet to figure out if Christian can use time pulse. They have tried to see if it was possible but no luck. Perhaps it was because the Crest Stone of Flames was not inside Chris but on the Sword of the Creator from a Byleth of a different timeline. What the two did learn is that Chris can move around when time was stopped, at least for a short moment. He can interfere if needed to. Back to the subject, after Rhea's long silence she spoke coldly as she looked to Arisa.

"Very well. I shall pray no harm befalls them while they are away from the monastery." She said.

"And shall I." Arisa replied, "And if my friend and children are harmed, I know who to blame." She mentally snarled as her eyes held the message clear.

Rhea shivered at the look but turned to look at Alexandra, suddenly her eyes zoomed at her necklace.

"That necklace..." Rhea said and Seteth turned to look, he froze because he instantly recognized it, "Where did you get it?" She smiled and Alexandra placed her hand over it.

"My father." She answered.

"That necklace is the Heroes' Relic, Skadi-Ondergoed. It also has the ability to transform to staff called Scáthach. Have you mastered it yet?" Her smile was unnerving as Alexandra only held onto the necklace tighter to her chest.

Alexandra suddenly felt like she was looking at Cornelia's smile. A smile that said that she would find her no matter how far she ran. A smile that looked down at her and saw her beneath her. A smile that was that of a predator that was on the verge of killing its prey. Rhea's aura was intimidating her, and she felt an anxiety attack was about to hit her. Chest pain, nausea, she felt like Rhea was almost physically wrapping her arms around her neck. She trembled a bit as he eyes casted down, her lip quivered a bit. Rhea extended out her hand to her.

"You seem to not be ready to wield it. Skadi-Ondergoed is said to be second to the Sword of the Creator. You could get greatly injured if you wield it without the proper training. It is best you entrusted it to us till you are ready." Rhea smiled.

"Absolutely not!" Cirina's voice boomed in Alexandra's mind as she suddenly hugged the girl tightly from behind, she was floating like Sothis.

Her hand gently caressed Alexandra's cheek, and she spoke.

"Stand your ground! It is clear this woman looks down at you! Do you wish to experience what Cornelia did to you?!" Cirina said as Alexandra gulped and opened her eyes again.

"I'm sorry but this Relic stays with me. I mastered both a long time ago." Alexandra said clearly.

Arisa smiled warmly as Rhea retracted her hand and frowned.

"Very well then." She said and turned to the rest of the group, "You have two weeks. If the rebellion is not quelled by then, the church will step in. You are dismissed." Rhea turned and left for the other room with Seteth following behind her, but Arisa did not miss the look of worry he had towards her friend.

With the door closed shut, a few minutes passed till finally they all let go of the breath they were holding.

"Professor," Ashe said as he turned to her, "Thank you. Both you and Alexandra. Honestly, I am surprised to learn she is Lord Lonato's granddaughter. He has mentioned her a few times. Christophe also." He smiled sadly as he turned to the blue haired woman.

"I'm sorry but I had to hide who I was. Unfortunately for this situation, I have to hide who I am from Lord Lonato or there is a chance things will escalate." She said and Dimitri frowns.

"I understand." Ashe said and Arisa placed a hand on his shoulder.

"You'll head out tonight. It should take around 5 days to reach Castle Gaspard by flying. Sandy will get the wyverns ready for you and escort you all to a safe location. For now, you all get your things ready." Arisa said and they nodded.

[-]

It was tense silence as Arisa and Dimitri walked a side by side of each other. Oh, she knew he was upset by the blank look on his face. He was upset about that a childhood friend he thought was long dead, was actually alive. It him wonder how many people actually she was alive. Even Sothis was getting worried as they were near the green house and right when Dimitri was about to speak….

"Oh Professor!"

"GRACIAS VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE!" Arisa mentally yelled so loud in her mind that poor Sothis screamed as she covered her ears.

Her current savoir, was Ferdinand. The orange haired boy smiled warmly as he walked up and spoke.

"Hello Dimitri." He smiled and Dimitri gave him a nod before he turned back to her, "You're just on time! We finished dusting the room and found a few interesting things. We did put them in wooden crates for you to look at." He said and Arisa warmly to him.

"You boys didn't have to finish the entire thing by yourselves!" Arisa said and Ferdinand shook his head.

"It is alright. After all, it is my duty, as Ferdinand von Aegir, to help those in need. You helped us a lot, so please allow us to help you." He said and Arisa could help but look the opposite direction, which is to the right, and covered her mouth.

Dimitri's frown only deepened when he noticed that her ears turned a light shade of pink.

"Very well then!" Arisa said as she turned back to him, "As a thank you to you and Boey, w-" and Sothis, slapped her hand over her mouth.

"Don't you dare invite these boys to tea in front of the prince!" Sothis said in a panic tone.

"Make me." Arisa mentally said to her and removed her hand.

"As I was saying, would y-oooooowwwww!" And Sothia pulled her hair.

"Professor are you alright?!" Dimitri finally spoke, worried as also Ferdinand.

"I'm alright! Just a few fae pulling my hair. A harmless prank." She said as Sothis stuck her tongue out at her.

"You'll thank me later!" Sothis said back and Arisa sighs.

"Ferdinand, would you like to have tea with me along with Boey?" Arisa finally said and Sothis screeched in horror while Dimitri looked like a kicked puppy.

"I'll be going now. Professor, have a good day." Dimitri said and left quickly as he could.

"You had to do it! You just had to!" Sothis yelled in utter horror while joy bloomed on Ferdinand's face.

"It would be an honor Professor!" He grins to her as she smiles warmly.

Honestly, she needed a break. This is a good one. The two walked back to the room, chatting a bit about the upcoming riding seminar that Ferdinand has been looking forward to. He has been speaking with Petra and Ingrid. The three have been giving each other's pointers on how to improve and she was happy hearing this. The students of the three houses have been working together and helping each other out. That was what she wanted, trust to be built. Also, for the House Leaders to learn to communicate with others. Once they arrived at the room, Arisa had to blink multiple times to make sure she wasn't seeing things, that they were in the same room.

"What do you think Professor?" Boey smiled as they walked in, "We cleaned up the place and Dedue passed by to bring some flowers and fruits to lighten the place up." He said as he pointed to a vase filled with sunflowers and a fruit bowl.

Seeing them reminded her that it was June already and summer was almost here. Maybe she could convince Seteth to allow her to take the kids to a trip to Rhodes Coast? Since technically her and Emily oversee that land and it is their territory. Arisa smiled and gave them a thumbs up.

"They look wonderful! By the way, Boey, would you like to stay and have tea with us? It's my way of thank you and Ferdinand for cleaning this place." She said.

"Thank you for the invitation Professor but unfortunately I have to decline. I have seminar with Professor Manuela in a bit." He said and she nodded in understanding, "By the way, do you know which section the tomes on reason magic were in the library? I asked Lysithea but even she was having trouble finding it." He said and Arisa sighs.

"Unfortunately, the tomes with the advanced text are in the restriction section which I only have access to. But for the regular ones you search for, those should be near the history section. Make sure to ask Xina just in case." She said and he nodded.

"Alright then and thank you Professor. Have a nice day both of you!" Boey smiled and left.

Arisa chuckled as she waved and walked over to one of the shelves, which she was happy to find a clear glass tea set with blue flower designs on it.

"We found a few tea containers while we're cleaning. I have never heard of...Blue butterfly pea tea?" Ferdinand said and Arisa whipped around quickly.

"Ahhh! I love that tea! I never thought it existed here in Fodlan." Arisa grinned as she gently took out the set and placed it on a tray, "Blue Butterfly, for short, is a tea that grows in the country of Hyras. It's between Sreng and Albinea. One of the mercenaries that works in my father's company, his name is Jorah, comes from there." She walked to the table near the windows and piano, gently setting down the tray.

"I have heard of the country before. I believe it is also known as the Country of Flowers. The Empire has been wanting to open trade with them for many years, but they have kept rejecting the idea. I can understand though...The Empire...has been aggressive with them." He hesitates as she sits down, and he is across from her.

"So, you want to talk about it?" She said she used a bit of fire magic to light the small tea burner and place the teapot on it.

She didn't miss how Ferdinand slightly flinched at the sight of the fire. She used some magic to fill the small pot with water then put in two spoons of blue butterfly tea. Thankfully Dedue has also brought some fruits. And one of them happened to be a lemon.

"Professor, may I ask your opinion on a sensitive topic?" He said and she nodded.

"Just to warn you, I will be brutally honest." She said as she placed a teacup in front of him.

"It is alright. I believe hearing a difference of opinions will help me find a better answer to what I seek." He said, "But here is my question. You are aware of the fire that took place in Aegir territory correct?" He said and Arisa nodded.

"Of course,..." Arisa said as she saw the tea was ready and began pouring a cup for both.

"The Aegir mansion burned down, and my father and I stayed in the palace of Enbarr for half a year till the rebuilding of the mansion was completed. Others say the fire was caused by thieves, but I beg to differ." He said as she handed him his cup.

He was surprised by the natural blue color tea and its scent.

"And why is that?" Arisa said as she cut the lemon and handed him half, she squeezed a few drops into her own, making the blue tea turn to a shade of purple.

"Because that day, I remember it vividly. I was walking down the hallway in search of my father. Yet, suddenly there was shaking. The sound of something exploding rang in my ears, all around me. The world went black." He said and Arisa was silent as he continued.

"When I came to, I realized my left arm was broken as well as suffered 2nd degree burns thankfully. But I can never forget, the roar I heard that day, as well as... the demonic beast I saw. My father says it was an illusion but how can that be so. I remember it well. I can never forget neither the woman that saved us that day." He said and Arisa placed down her cup.

"Ferdinand..." Arisa muttered as she remembered the fire.

The day she found out Christian was being experimented underneath that place. She always prayed that he would never become a victim of such experiments and hoped she could prevent such treatment to Edelgard but by the time she arrived in the Kingdom, it was too late. Even worse that Ferdinand got roped into the bloody battle when he was never supposed to in the original timeline. Now learning he suffered burns, oooooohhh! Now she wished she could have gone back to check on him but that would have been too risky! Seriously, who the hell appears out of nowhere and saves the day?!

"Professor, that woman is you isn't it? You saved me and my father that day from the demonic beast." Ferdinand said as Arisa sighed.

"I have my reasons for hiding it." Was all she said, and he nodded.

"I understand. Truthfully, I am glad you did hide it. If you had returned to come check on me after the fire, my father would have had you arrested, regardless if you had saved us." He said and she turned to him with wide eyes.

"How did you know that I wanted to go check on you?!" She said and chuckled.

"There is sadness in your eyes that lingers when I speak about the fire. You seem to have regrets about not returning to Aegir territory. As you know, my father gained power through the Insurrection of the Seven. I admit, his greed has gotten the better of him and it is my duty as the next Duke to hold him accountable. It will be difficult, but it must be done." He said, "Ah. Forgive me for straying from the original topic." He said.

"It is alright. I think speaking with me can help. Like I said to many, what is said between us, does not leave this room. You have my word. And I do agree with you. Your father...sigh...must be held accountable. Many of his actions have hurt innocent lives and...sigh...this a sensitive topic but what was your reaction at the announcement of the death of Chris von Hersvelg, Gina von Vestra and the rest of the children of the Hersvelg bloodline?" She asked.

"...Chris von Hersvelg, we did not talk much but he was very caring of his family. I spoke with him a couple times and I was impressed by his view on politics. To many of the nobles of the Empire, his ideas were seen as radical. One of the ideas I remember he spoke of was free education for all, regardless of status. I was very interested in the idea and could not help but want to speak more with him. Truthfully, before his death, he and I were going to meet to discuss politics. As for Hubert's sister, she was very kind. Honestly, it was surprising how protective Hubert was of her even if she was the older one. I remember how devastated Edelgard and Hubert were. For those two to suddenly pass away...I do believe foul play was done. And yes, I suspect my own father. He never really did like the prince considering he would always talk back to him as well as tell my father to his face the unforgivable actions he has done. I admire that about the prince. He looked at the truth head on. I belive he would have been a wise Emperor." Ferdinand smiled sadly as he took a sip of his tea.

"It's a light sweet taste. I like it." He said and Arisa smiled warmly however, thankfully Ferdinand did not see her eyes go wide when she saw her brother leaning at the door with arms crossed and eyes closed.

Chris opened his eye and it said he heard everything.

"Just pretend you just came in!" Arisa mentally yelled at him and he nodded.

Chris knocked on the edge of the door and Ferdinand turned his way, a bit surprised to see him.

"Sorry, am I interrupting?" Chris said and Arisa nodded.

"No, not all. Is something wrong Christian?" She asked and he nodded.

"Not really but I think you might want to head to the infirmary. Guess who showed up at the monastery and is causing a ruckus?" He smirked.

"Please tell me it's not Temes." Arisa said and Chris shook his head, laughing a bit.

"Nope! Go and look!" He laughed and the other looked at each other confused and stood up.

Arisa blew out the small burner and thus, the three headed to the courtyard.

[-]

How many years has it been since she had been here? Maybe because she can feel the small shift in the flow of time, but whatever the hell the change was, she did not have a care in the world for it for now. Dressed in a warlock dress with a simple thin cloak with the Crest of Lamine on the back as well as the symbol of the Kingdom, Emily von Miller Zoltras was back. She was in her adult form and noticed how many were staring at her huge assets (Damn MILF). Honestly, it made her swell with a bit of pride. The only downside was that they were the same size as Cornelia, but at least she had them covered up unlike that harlot. Her crimson hair was tied in a high ponytail and her long bangs were curled in a similar fashion like Flayn's, to hide her ears. Her ivory colored eyes were closed as she stood waiting in the courtyard in front of the Blue Lions classroom, with arms crossed and one parcel in her arms.

"Oh, a crowd is gathering." Emily thought as she slightly opened her eyes and noticed many students were near the hallways, but none dare approach.

Oh, she spotted Sylvian and Felix, the two frozen like ice at the sight of her. Did she really terrify them that much? Ah. Edward's sister and Tharja's daughter. They seem to be doing well. She heard footsteps approaching and turned her head, a warm smile came on her face as she saw the two white haired girls approach her with smiles on their faces.

"Master, this is a surprise to see you here!" Lysithea said and Emily spoke.

"It's been a few months my student. Glad to see you and the others are doing well." She said and patted Lysithea and Sadi's head.

"Are you looking for the Professor? She'll be here in a bit. Christian went to get her." Sadi said and Emily looked at her confused.

"Wait who?" She said and the three turned as the crowd moved out of the way, and low and behold, Arisa arrived, and...

"Oh, so that's how it is. He lived." Emily thought as her eyes widened the minute they landed on Chris.

"Emily?! What?! I thought you were just going to send the paperwork!" Arisa said as she walked a bit faster towards her with Chris, and Ferdinand went to join the crowd.

Oh, seems the rest of the three houses have arrived. Emily smirked as she walked up to her.

"Oh, I believe not. Especially since you told me about your situation as well as how Manuela gave you the yelling you ``Oh so deserved." She said as the other two girls quickly ran back to the crowd.

Emily unfortunately was much taller than Arisa and had her arms crossed under her chest and looked down at the smaller woman with a scowl.

"I said many times to take care of yourself and look where that got you. Sigh, at this rate might as well really hire a watcher (Dimitri) or shall I have Amir tie you down?" She said and Arisa gave her a glare.

"Ara, ara, ara ~ Oh child, you really think you can escape my wrath as a fellow Holy Magus? OOOOOOOHOHOHOHO! You have much to learn to even reach my level! Ooohohoho!" And there was that damn prideful attitude of hers!

Arisa pinched the bridge of nose, cursing profanities in Spanish that only Chris and Alexandra understood while Emily was still smug. And here she thought the older woman's prideful personality had simmered down these past 4 years. Well maybe a little bit but it was still there. She sighs as she looks up to the red-haired woman, whose hair still looked like fluffy feathers that she wanted to touch. Emily smiled as she looked around and it seemed all the students stiffened the second her eyes landed on them. They slightly narrowed at Claude, then at Edelgard and lastly the twins. She snorted and turned back to Arisa.

"You have the table full. But anyhow, let's go to the infirmary. Alex, along with Amir, should be there along with Hanneman. I did not just bring your medical records. I brought Amir's and Alexandra's also. The topic I will be discussing with you all will be serious, and I admit, it is about your Crest. And you boy," she turned to Chris, "You're coming to. I'm going to tear you and Arisa apart once this conversation is over." She said and Arisa and Chris looked at each and did the cross symbol over their head and chest.

Lestia and Claude were shaking and covering their mouths as they were trying not to burst out laughing at what they just witnessed.

"By the way," Emily suddenly stopped, "ALL THREE HOUSES!" she yelled as the said ones froze, "Your upcoming Physical exams are next month. Try not to run from me." She smiled and Arisa could have sworn some of the older students either screamed or cried in horror.

A lot of the younger ones were confused while she spotted Yuri in the crowd, even his skin seemed to have paled a bit because of the bead of sweat running down his face. Now that she thought about it, was Yuri a student?

- Infirmary-

"Emily, it's been so long!" Honestly, it did not surprise anyone in the room that Emily and Manuela knew each other.

Apparently the two met in a tavern in Enbarr and since then, had become friends. At least Emily didn't share the same drinking habits as the other woman. Manuela had prepared some tea for everyone and everyone sat down around the table.

"I'm sorry but why am I here?" Hanneman asked as Emily began to unwrap the parcel.

"Because this subject is also regarding Crest. And since miss Arisa is an idiot (Arisa: HEY!), I think it's about time you say your theory regarding her Crest. This also ties to not just her health, but many of the students." Emily said.

"Ah. Alright then. Do you mind if I begin while you get the papers organized?" She said Emily shook her head.

"Very well then." He said and turned to the four friends, "You four, I thank you for allowing me permission to research your Crest. For this, let us start with Alexandra. We already know your Crest is the Crest of Aubin. However what I discovered is that there are two different bloodlines to that Crest." Hanneman said and the four looked at him with wide eyes, "Alexandra comes from the bloodline of Ui, a woman who created House Aubin after the monastery was done being built. They help found the Kingdom besides House Zoltras, whose descents were a shoot off of House Nuvelle." He said and Emily whipped her head towards him.

"Excuse me?!" She said.

Well, guess not even she knows everything about House Zoltras.

"I thought you knew." Hanneman said and Emily shook her head.

"Of course not. My mother did not talk much about the history of House Zoltras due to many wanting that information. Looks like it's up to me finding out more along with my siblings. Ugh." She groans and Hanneman sighs.

"Back to the topic at hand. Like I was saying, Alexandra you come from the bloodline of Ui, who was originally a leader of the Ice Tribe. Eventually she chose to leave the mountains along with 11 of her followers. 5 were normal humans like us and the other 6 were people of the ice tribe. Cirina passed down her knowledge of blacksmith to them as well as her powers. That is why the Aubin bloodline continued to live on. Till...the massacre of 1134. The only survivors of the Aubin clan were Lady Alexandra, your grandmother, your uncle, Rensen, and lastly, your father Alexander. Now, you are the last member to be alive of House Aubin." He said and Alexandra nodded as she touched her necklace.

"Now, onto you Amir." He said as he turned to the Duscur girl, who stiffened, "Your bloodline is a bit difficult to trace but I have an idea. Originally, foreigners, such as yourself, should not be able to have Crest at all. Your ancestors came from the bloodline of the Legendary Apostle, Saint Timotheos. A few of his descendants left Fodlan and crossed the mountains of Faerghus, eventually settling down in Duscur. And Like Alexandra, unfortunately you too are the last of that bloodline that lived in Duscur. However, here in Fodlan, it is possible that there could be another unknown bloodline that bears the same Crest as you." Hanneman said and Amir looked down to her lap.

"I gave...my blood...to Sadi..." she thought and now the woman was getting worried that if the Church discovers Sadi had a crest...

"Now finally, you two siblings." He said turning to Arisa and Christian.

"Hold up." Emily put her hands up and slowly turned to look at the two, "Siblings?" She said and Arisa quickly created a mental connection with her.

"He is just like you, me, and Erik! He remembers his past life! Chris and I were siblings in the past!" Arisa said and Emily faced palms.

"Should we take a break?" Manuela said and Emily just sighs.

"No, it's alright." The red-haired woman said and motioned Hanneman to continue.

"When I first used my Crest Analyzer on you both, only a portion of your Crest was shown. However, I began to see we only saw a portion of the bigger picture, which allowed a temporary hypothesis. " He took out his notebook, "I combined the two images that were shown, and I could not believe it! A Crest thought to have disappeared from this world in the millennium since the fall of Nemesis, the King of Liberation." He smiled as the two siblings shared a glance, "The Crest of Flames. That is the Crest I believe you two have." He said and suddenly Emily stood up, furious.

"Arisa." He voice was beyond cold as she slowly turned to the woman, "That should not be possible. He should not have the Crest of Flames at all. What happened after you left Faerghus when you recovered?" No one had ever seen the woman so furious before.

Arisa was silent for a few seconds and then spoke.

"I'm sorry but I can't tell you here. But..." she looked over to Chris, who rubbed the back of his neck, "I'll tell you in private." She said and Emily sat back down, taking deep breaths, trying to calm herself down.

"Very well then..." Emily grunted and nodded to Hanneman.

"However, something is bothering me about your Crest. And not just you two, all four of you." He said and Emily snapped her head up quickly.

"Looking at these records..." Manuela said as she turned to Amir, "You've had episodes where your hair color turns black as well as your mood changes. Also, times your power has caused you to sleep for up to three days." She said and Amir chuckled a bit nervously.

"Alexandra, you have a multi personality disorder as well as depression, PTSD, aggressive behavior, self-harm?! Your Crest has caused this?!" She nearly screeched.

"Actually," Emily spoke, "These were caused before the awakening of her Crest. Her mother is the cause. Alexandra didn't exactly grow up in the best environment after her father passed away..." she sighs, and Manuela looked at the girl with empathy.

"Can we continue on?" Alexandra whispered and the others nodded.

"Now for you Arisa," Hanneman said, "You've suffered magic shifts your entire life. That is because the power of your Crest is still growing. Eventually it will reach its complete stage but I do not know when. Unfortunately, it is possible you will still suffer magic shifts as the years go by." He said and Arisa felt like the world was crashing down on her.

Manuela was shaking as she was now reading Arisa's medical records and Emily's face had become like stone. How much Arisa wanted to disappear from the table now and unfortunately out of instinct, warped out of the room. Chris stood up to quickly run after her, but Emily caught his wrist.

"Don't." Emily said as her eyes were on her lap, "Let her be alone. I think she needs it." She said and he sat back down.

"And what about me...?" Chris muttered and Hanneman frowns.

"You Christian, sigh, like Arisa, your power is also growing. To be more specific, it is adapting to you. You won't suffer magic shifts like your sister, but have you had trouble sleeping?" He asked.

"Yes...and at times I sleep too much. It's trait inherited from the Crest of Flames." Chris sighs.

"Another question...has your hair always been white? Is it natural like Dedue's, Sadi's and Amir's?" He asked and Chris shocked his head.

"No. My hair used to be brown, like my eyes." Chris said.

"Wait...used to be?" Both Manuela and Emily said and that's when it hit the red-haired woman and Hanneman.

"You're...a..survivor...?"

- The Sealed Forrest -

Unfortunately, the places she loved escaping to were places that were forbidden. Arisa was at the one place no one would be expected to be at. The Sealed Forrest. Bonus, because she warped herself in the temple where the Forbidden Spell of Zarha is casted. For her, despite this place being the stage of doom next year, the place also felt comforting. Like she had been there before. At times when she was alone, she would dance to her heart's contents. Even if it was for a short temporary time, she was healthy in her old life, she took full advantage of it to learn how to dance properly. And that was what she was doing, dancing. She carefully moved barefoot on the stone floor, singing softly as the palms of her hands glowed, her mercenary uniform was replaced with that of a Fodlan Dancer. She slowly spun around, singing, unaware that a small ring appeared on her tongue, magic fusing with her voice as she kept singing and dancing. Her eyes opened and in them was the Crest of Flames.

[-]

59 has never known what it was like to understand humans. After all, it was something he was not allowed to fully grasp. Yet it fascinated him how humans could walk, talk, interact. Feel emotions that were not artificial. He wanted to learn more of humans along with his sister 60, but both were forbidden. Their jobs are to kill. To eliminate. To find the vessel of the Fell Star as well as her children, take them out.

"What is choice?" He muttered to himself as he walked around the forest, collecting venom for the Agarthium blades that were soon to be created.

"Love, joy, sorrow, fear, desire, pleasure, what are these strange emotions humans have?" He muttered as he continued walking yet he stopped for a bit.

He could hear soft singing. It was odd. Humans shouldn't even be near this place at all. He began to walk closer to this voice and almost seemed like was calling someone. Soon, a arrived and hide at the top of a tree, his eyes landing in the distance on the woman he saw last month.

"Ah. The woman of the forest." He thought as he saw her singing and dancing.

A strange feeling arose in his chest as he watched the woman. Perhaps the emotions of sorrow are what he sees on her face. Humans were fascinating. Perhaps a closer look would be better?

"No, no. Negative. " he muttered and warped away.

[-]

Arisa finished singing and dancing and panted.

"My hair grew again..." she muttered angrily as she took out her dagger and cut it again.

The hair she cut, she burned it to ashes so it can never be used for anything, like experiments or trying to get a sample of her Crest. Sothis appeared before her in her adult form, the goddess was frowning.

"Do you wish to talk about it?" Sothis said and Arisa nodded.

She knows keeping her emotions bottled up was going to screw her over if she let it happen again. She does not want to go out of control but at times there are times she wishes she could rampage and destroy everything in her sight, but she knows that are just the urges of destruction she is trying to surpass. She was more than grateful about the dragon stone she had, which sealed her dragon form (IF she even had one) in it. Honestly, Arisa thought she moved on. She really did. But there will always be a part of her that clings to the past.

"Sothis, I thought I moved on from my fear of being alone, but I haven't. I'm still afraid to become bedridden again in this life. That fear of blood has never gone away. Everyone except my father, family, and even my friends... everyone else has expectations from me! Rhea wants to put me on the path she created! She wants me to become you! Everyone expects me to be a leader when I'm a damn doctor and astronomer! Yes, I'm a tactician also but nothing else! I'm being compared to my mother of this world who I never met! Political subjects are an absolute nightmare for me! I! I! All I want is to save my students from tragic fates and we're already seeing things that are completely different! Melody, Lejare, Kotas turning into a damn monster in front of us! Rhea wanting something out of Alexandra! Emily, just so, so many things that's starting to get to the point where my head can't wrap things around it! This internal and mental struggle I have with myself is screwing me over! Am I over thinking things and I am finally cracking after all these years?! I'm just getting to where things I thought I knew are now changing! The flow of time is changing, and I can't tell if it's for the better or for worse!" Arisa said and Sothis was silent as she let her friend speak everything out.

Her friend was a smart woman who only wanted to help others. Knowledge and such were a blessing but also a curse for her. Sothis saw Arisa had her hand over her left eye, her eyes wide and frantic, she was shaking.

"Now learning I'm going to suffer more magic shifts...seeing Ashe so heartbroken...Those Who Slither in the Dark interfering more than they should...trying to help Lord Lonato...I don't even know if this plan is going to succeed! At times I feel I am me, Arisa, but other times I feel like I am a completely different person. I am starting to hear whispers that are becoming clearer as each day passes and I just feel I'm going to go mad! Maybe it's all this stress from work!" Arisa and Sothis cupped her cheeks, making her remove her hand, revealing her left eye.

Her left eye was brown that faded to emerald but slit. Her right eye the pupil of the Crest of Flames. Sothis closed her eyes and placed her forehead on hers, speaking softly.

"Arisa, you are human. It is alright to be confused. I said many times before, it is alright to be scared. To show your emotions to let them out. To feel them, but to not let those negative thoughts chain you down. Scream if you must. Cry if you must. Throw a hissy fit here if you must. Like Emily said before, it is not alright for you to bottle up your emotions like this. Arisa, what do you feel? What do you truly feel?" Sothis said to her.

"Is wrong that I feel like I am forgotten? That people are only seeing me for my abilities and not for me? Is it wrong that I just want someone to hold me and love me for who I am? Is it wrong that I don't want to be what people want me to be? Is it wrong for me to wish people to stop expecting great things from me? Is that wrong?" Arisa wept, the rain began to pour suddenly and Sothis shook her head.

"It is not wrong to desire. It is not wrong to yearn. A part of you will always belong to your old world, but the you now, Fodlan is your home. The people need you. Those who care for you need you. I need you. And when the time's right, they will be there for you. I will be there for you." Sothis smiled warmly to her.

The closet mother figure Arisa had was Sothis. To Sothis, Arisa was like another daughter. The memories are faint, but she remembers a few faces from her past. One is Lejare, the other Noa. Cirina also played with Macuil and Indech.

"Zzzzzz..." Sothis smiled sadly as it seems the girl fell asleep, despite the pouring rain.

As much as she wanted to wake her up, she couldn't. Once Arisa sleeps, she sleeps.

"Honestly what will I do with you?" Sothis chuckled as she made a few plants grow around her friend to protect her and keep her warm, "Alright. You can sleep for two hours. Thankfully it is still midday and the days longer in summer." She smiled as she sat inside and gently stroked her head.

"In time flows~ See the glow ~ of Flames ever burning bright ~" she sang softly to the woman, a small warm smile appeared on her face as the girl nuzzled closer.

"On the swift ~ Rivers drift ~ Broken memories align ~" she sang, "Sigh...honestly, the soul of the ancient but also a child in a way." Sothis smiled and disappeared in a shower of green dust, leaving the girl to sleep peace.

[-]

"And this is a bad idea Constance. If we get caught, we'll be in serious trouble with the Knights." Dressed in her Valkyrie uniform, and riding on her brown stallion, Hapi looked just about ready to ditch her companion.

"Come now Hapi! Do not be so glum! Besides, The Sealed Forest has many wondrous gardens of unknown herbs that are perfect for my magic research. And today, is the Luna flower blooms only on rainy days like this~~" short blonde hair with curled bangs with purple hair underneath, dressed in a silver and white long dress, with long sleeves, and some sort of chain on her neck, she rode on black pegasus besides her friend.

"I am more worried about Yuri-Bird coming after our necks if we get discovered." Hapi said as she fixed the hood of her raincoat.

The blonde one named Constance did the same but suddenly made her pegasus stop. Hapi was about to ask what was wrong till she slowly pointed towards an area near the trees. A white wolf ran through there and behind it flew a white owl.

"White wolves...do not live in Garreg Mach as well as white owls." Hapi said as she whipped the reins of her horse, "Let's go!" She yelled and off the two went ahead.

"Hapi wait!" Constance yelled as her pegasus spread its wings and flew after her, "What is the meaning of this?! What do you mean the wolves and owls of white do not live in Garreg Mach!?" She yelled.

"They only live in the forest and mountains of Faerghus, Coco!" Hapi said and Constance hummed.

Out of the corner of Constance's eyes, she spotted a pink green colored flower and squealed in utter joy!

"Hapi, you go on ahead! I found my Lunas! Come to your master! Ahahaha!" And down she dove.

Hapi resisted the urge to sigh as she went on ahead, following the trail of the wolf and owl. Her horse kept going yet it was starting to feel like hours. Now she was starting to understand why this place was called the Sealed Forest because it felt like a fucken maze. The humid air was starting to feel suffocating and she really wanted to take off her coat but that would be a bad idea in this weather especially. She wanted to sigh. Like, really bad. But she held it in and went ahead till she reached the strange temple she had seen before. This isn't her first time sneaking her. The Ashen Wolves usually come here to train, and that temple is usually where they do. But she raised an eyebrow as she noticed almost an egg-shaped dome as she had her horse get closer and noticed the white owl and wolf were there. The owl perched on the top and the wolf seated next to it. Hapi got off her horse and slowly made her way, and the wolf noticed and growled.

"Whoa there...I'm not an enemy." She said slowly and it seemed the wolf could understand her.

Once she got closer, the wolf sniffed her hand and stared at her for a moment. She was starting to sweat because those seconds could mean her life. The wolf turned and it seemed it allowed her to pass, which was a good thing. Hapi could hear snoring and was wondering who in their right mind would fall asleep here, but then again, she's fallen asleep in weird places. She made her way around and found a woman sleeping, curled up like a child, asleep. She carefully looked at the woman's face and she can tell the eyes were a bit puffy, so possibly this woman was grieving about something. She kept looking and that's when she noticed the strange colored hair.

"Wait, brown hair that fades to teal...wait, is this who I think it is?" Hapi said as she looked up to the Snowy owl, "Hey, is this Eyepatch's sister?" She asked and the owl looked like it nodded.

"Ooohhhh Hapi~" and why did now Constance had to arrive.

"I got my Luna flowers! Ah! I have never seen grown to such exquisite sizes! This will surely improve my re- Oh my...who is this?" Well at least that shut her up.

Constance jumped off her pegasus and walked a bit close but was still weary of the wolf.

"Hmm...I do not believe it would be wise to leave her. It does seem she is a heavy sleeper considering she has not awoken from our talk. Hmm...but the hair color..." she muttered.

"I think we just found Eyepatch's sister. Not sure if she either ran away from the Church or just wanted some space." Hapi said.

"Oh! The rumored Professor who is also a Holy Magus?! We cannot leave her here! And considering she is of high position, then perhaps I can convince her to take me on as a student so I can exceed! This will bring glory, for my name is not Constance von Nuvelle for nothing!" Constance giggled as she surprisingly picked up the Professor like if she was light as a feather.

Honestly, Hapi was surprised as she watched the blonde girl place the woman on her pegasus carefully. Then again...Balthis did say Constance had a talent for Brawling.

"You two coming also?" Hapi said as she turned to the owl and wolf, which the owl chirped.

"(Of course I am! My names Feh!!)" Feh said and Hapi began blinking multiple times.

"Okay. I need to stop eating custard tarts before I head out." Hapi said as she got on her horse.

"(Ah! So seems the girl with the star in her blood awakens the ability to understand us! Good, means Wolf Star awakened that ability when you made contact with her.)" Okay, now Hapi now was starting to think she was going mad as they began to leave.

"They are speaking human language...they are speaking human language." Hapi muttered and how bad she wanted to sign right now.

You know what?

"Sssssiiiiiiiiiighhhhhhhhhh..." screw it.

"Hapi?!" Constance screeched but usually right about now, a demonic beast, a wild wolf beast or even vulture would show up but nothing.

"What one earth?" No monsters...

"(That's because our master is here.)" Feh said as she landed on Hapi's shoulder, "(Her Crest is keeping monsters away. It's warding them off.)" Hapi's eyes went wide as she looked over to Constance.

"Coco, do you feel anything strange about her? The woman I mean." Hapi said as she looked back to Feh.

"Well, I admit I sense her magic aura a bit it seems...like its casting almost like a protective barrier around us. Despite being asleep, her aura seems to know that we are safe to be around. Thus, it is like...she is protecting us. Fascinating!" Constance said, "And on the note, the fact that you sighed and not a single monster appeared must mean the barrier is also working like a warding spell." She said.

"So that means I can sigh without worry?" Hapi said with a bit of a happy spark in her eyes.

"Please, do not test that theory right now." Constance said, "But I'm...assuming the effect of the barrier...yes?" She gave her a crooked grin.

Hapi felt very happy right now.

"But in all seriousness, I got to contact Eyepatch."

- Late at Night -

"Where is the Professor?"

It was late at night at the stables, and Alexandra was there with Ashe, Dimitri and Sandana. Chris let go of a sigh as he helped Ashe set up his wyvern because the boy knows how to fly one. Dimitri will be riding with Alexandra on Falco. Sandana looked over to Chris worried and the man spoke.

"Unfortunately, she isn't feeling well." His excuse to say that he can't find her anywhere and had been missing for 6 fucken hours, "However, she made this for you boys." He handed them each a parcel in which Ashe looked inside.

In it were medical supplies as well food to last a week, materials to write with as well as food for the wyverns, and small charm in the shape of a Lion.

"The charm is a protection spell to keep you guys safe. Make sure to have it on you guys at all times." Christian said and they nodded.

"Watch over them Sandy and Alexandra." He said as he ruffled Dimitri's and Ashe's hair a bit.

Dimitri stiffens at the action. His stepbrother used to do that to him, and this suddenly came into his mind as the man removed his hand.

"I know Christian. We'll make sure they are safe. By the way, how was the talk with Emily?" Alexandra asked and Chris sighs.

"She's staying tonight and had a guest room prepared for her. I'll tell you about it when you guys return. You have that crystal ball?" He asked and she nodded.

"Alright. Let's go!" Sandy said and made her way to her wyvern, as Ashe went his and Dimitri and Alexandra got on Falco.

"Stay safe!" Chris yelled out as the wyverns let go their roars and took off.

But he did not miss the look of worry Dimitri gave him. Sometimes Chris wonders if Arisa is damned. He was no idiot. He saw how the prince looked like a kicked puppy when Arisa invited Ferdinand to tea, right-in-front-of-him. Dead ass cucked the prince!

"Arisa, you cold ass a woman..." Chris groans as he begins to walk back to the dorms till, he hears someone "Psst!" To him.

He turned towards the small alley party of the stables, where the crates were put, he walked towards it, letting go a sigh of relief when he recognized who it was.

"God damn Hapi...and here I thought La Llorona had come for me." He said and Hapi shook her head.

"Look Eyepatch, I get the Weeping woman is scary but don't confuse me for her. Anyhow, I waited till the coast was clear." Hapi said.

"Sorry. Anyhow, what up?" He said.

He always liked how he could talk normally with her.

"Your sister. She has brown hair that fades to teal, correct? And she has a similar uniform like Chatterbox's (Beleth)." Hapi said.

"Yeah...what about it?" Chris said, worried.

"Well, Coco and I went to the Seal Forrest. And...we found a woman sleeping there with a similar appearance. We brought her back to Abyss." She said instantly Chris was worried, "Don't worry. She's safe. Coco is watching over her. And like we promised you, we're making sure Aelfric doesn't see her at all. But seriously, why don't you want him to see her? Aelfric has helped us all." Hapi said as the two began to walk a different direction.

"Sorry Hapi, I can't tell you yet. But for now, take me to my sister." He said and Hapi nodded.

"By the way, considering her hair color, I've decided to call her Evergreen." He said and he chuckled.

"One of my dad's mercenaries, Helena, calls her that. Good to know you thought the same name as her." He said and Hapi pouted.

For now, Chris just hopes his sister is safe.

Chapter 42: Bloody Mist: Part 2: Past Records

[-]

Okay, so before the pitchforks come, I like to give characters each their own spotlight moment. There are still many more and I have a total of at least 9 potential spotlights. You guys seen, Ferdinand, Dimitri and Edelgard. I gave a tiny sneak peek on Yuri. Now, there are a couple more. But everyone has their own time and date. Remember, as an author, I take my time and carefully decide when those moments will come. So please don't come bashing at me just because you aren't seeing a specific pair relationship or a specific character you want.

Anyhow, look forward to the political fight as the actual battle next chapter. As well as more internal struggles with our characters.

Also, that comment on Rhea. I hope I didn't offend anyone. And if I did, I apologize. As for Amir's comment on Arisa when she gets drunk, Arisa drunk sings. She either starts singing songs about love and heartbreaks (all females look at her like: Who hurt you?), Vicente Fernandez songs, Jeanne Rivera, or Plastic Love by Mariya Takeuchi. Yeah, Arisa is a drunk singer when wasted.

That is all. Goodbye! (Expect Chapter 43 tomorrow)