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)

47. Chapter 46:Goddess's Song:Part 3:Awaken

̶̧̧͖̳̦̖̤̝͖͎̙̭̱͐̌́͆̽̌͜Justice! Let the scales deal harsh equality.

Hanged man! Endure his foolish crucibles.

Death! Let love burn to its silent end.

Temperance! Reign over havoc, weal, and woe.

Demons! Fear the vortex swallowing all.

The tower! Tear it down with the wicked ones.

[-]

-Flashback Garland Moon -

"Sit your ass down right there! You got some explaining to do!"

Anger.

Rage.

A bit of betrayal.

That was what Emily felt when she learned Chris has the Crest of Flames. Not to also mention that she found out he was a survivor of those horrific experiments. And the fact that Arisa never once mentioned that he and Gina survived...what else doesn't she know?! Her and Chris were currently in her room and made him sit at her table. She wanted to bring Arisa in also but given how the girl just learned she will be suffering magic shifts for the rest of her life, yeah, she would be upset also.

"Look Emily, I know you're pissed but at least listen to why I have the Crest of Flames." Chris said as he sat down and her across from him.

"10 minutes! Start!" Emily snarls as she grabbed her stress ball and was squishing it in her hands while he spoke.

"Gina and I were on our way with Edelgard and Hubert, returning back to the Empire. On our way there...we were suddenly ambushed. I did everything in power to protect Gina, Edelgard and Hubert. But we were overwhelmed. The mages of those snakes separated us. Hubert and Edelgard, back to Enbarr. Gina to the basement of Vestra House. Her fucken father sold her to the snakes in exchange they gave her a Crest. Duke Aegir and the other 6 Lords have always hated me because I have different values and have proposed many new ideas that they absolutely hated. You know what I mean." He huffed and Emily nodded.

"I was taken to the underground basement beneath the Mansion of Aegir. I made a deal with Solon, that in exchange I survive the Crest implantation, and take the throne, no harm shall befall Gina, Edelgard or Hubert." He muttered and Emily looked at him with wide eyes.

"Your plan was to free Edelgard from the burden of the throne. So, she and the others may live in peace. You were planning to start a silent war against Those Who Slither in the Dark as well as...WHAT THE FUCK?! YOU WERE PLANNING TO DO AN ENTIRE POLITICAL REFORM EVEN IF RHEA CAME AFTER YOUR HEAD!" Emily screamed and boy Chris was glad he casted a barrier around the room.

"Yeah. I have and still do, have Duchess Marry, Count Urus and Duke Chevalier on my side. I contacted them 2 years ago. So, I also have my spies. But back to the main topic, my original plan was to publicly expose everything that the 7 lords did along with the existence of Those Who Slither in the Dark. But the war between those snakes and we would be hidden. But now that plan has gone to flames since the Lords declared I died along with Gina. The Fire of House Aegir was my doing. The Crest of Flames went out of control and I transformed into a beast. Ferdinand would have been dead along with his father if Arisa had not showed up and saved them. I wish she would have saved Ferdie only though." He grumbled, "Anyhow, I was planning to speak with Ferdinand once I had returned to Enbarr. I plan and still am, making him an alley. Hubert, unfortunately wouldn't work because he's too loyal to my sister. But...like I said. I have spies, ones you nor anyone know of. Not even my sister Edelgard. I still plan to avenge my siblings. And hoping to find a way to turn Heather back to a human." He said and she spoke.

"You still haven't explained why you have the Crest of Flames." She bluntly said and he groans.

"Bloody hell. Basically, after Arisa faced me head on in my beast form and destroyed the Crest stone in me, she warped us to Nuvelle territory. I was back to a human but still in a very feral state. I...I attacked her and drank her blood. Destroying the minor Crest of Serios that was implanted into me, fully making me now bare the Crest of Flames. As for Gina, the Crest of Lamine and Fraldarius was put in her. The Fraldarius one was weakened enough that we were able to successfully overwrite it, making her have officially the Crest of Lamine by giving her that blood." He explained and Emily stood up, taking multiple deep breaths.

"Okay...First Zander...then you...now Gina?! Argh! She gave my blood and her's to you three! But..sigh..." she began to settle down, "You three are worthy of it. I trust her judgement." She turned back to him," Now I understand why she said you were both brother sister in the past and why you were so protective of her back then. You two WERE brother and sister in a different life. Fate has decided to bring you two back together. Now both of you are related again because her blood now flows through your veins. This technically now means that you, her, Heather, and Edelgard, are siblings now in a way? Just to let you know, the youngest of your siblings is alive (Chris: Now hold the fuck up?! Henry is alive?!). With that over, I will tell you now who I truly am." Emily said.

She hated explaining again for the 100th time who she truly was and what Sirius was. Like Arisa, he knew pretty much a good amount of information which she was craving because he may have more knowledge in politics than he lets on. Which by the way, he does. He has a minor in Politics in his old world. Anyhow, gaining another ally, perfect. And more spies, perfect. Now, if only she could-

"Emily, there's something I need you to do." It was a rarity for Chris to ask favors, "Solon, is here in the Monastery. He is pretending to be Tomas. I need you...to get me the best Agarthium metal you can get your hands on. I'm making a weapon." He said and Emily smiled.

"Of course. I have my own spies as well." She giggled evilly.

"One more thing, do you know a man by the name of Chilon?" Chris suddenly became very terrified by how furious Emily suddenly became when he spoke that name.

"Chilon the Agarthan Black Smith. He who forged my mother, brothers and sisters to weapons...I do...he is the one that killed my husband." She snarled and Chris backed away as thorn-like wings grew on her back.

"The only reason I have not gone mad is because I sealed my dragon form in a dragon stone. Sothis created them out of emergency since our hearts are Crest stones." Her wings began to disappear, "You know Solon and Myson. Then that means the other leaders are alive. I have scored to settle with Anacharsis but I will put that to the side for now. We'll aid you and support you and Arisa. You kids are already creating your own allies. Or should I say army?" She chuckled as she was now back to normal.

"Speaking of allies," he said, and she raised an eyebrow at him, "I need a battalion. Ones I can trust. Lestia has her own assassin one. Zander a griffon rider one. Arisa has Morfis Dark Fliers. Amir has her brigand ones from Duscur and Alexandra has Lancers from Hyras. So that leaves me." He muttered and Emily chuckled.

"How do you feel about the Sreng War Monks Corps? Their leader is a friend of mine."

- Current Time: Blue Sea Moon: July 25th -

"You bloody son of bitch! Helio, who would have thought you to be the leader?!"

Sylvain and many others just stared with wide eyes as they watched the dark skin men of Sreng dressed as war monks, their leader, a man around 26 years of age, shook hands with Christian. The two men had smirks on their faces as they let go. On the day before the Goddess's Rite of Rebirth, all students were gathered in the courtyard to discuss the final touches to the plans. As well as certain students have their battalions ready. This was when the battalion Emily hired for Chris came and boy was the prince happy it was a group they knew.

"I never would have thought I would see you again, ga! Ought to throw you at the ocean after all these years! It's been 2 years, ga! Not so skinny now, ne?" Helio laughed proudly while he looked over to the kids.

Helio and his men were war monks from Sreng that also worked for Sirius. 2 years ago, there was a very dangerous mission near the borders of Sreng and Gautier territory. Chris and Arisa along with Rin and Ra were traveling in that area and when the twins recognized the man, they immediately went to aid them. They were fighting off a herd of demonic beasts. With those monsters defeated, the group earned Helios's and his men's respect.

"Aye, if ain't cha little missy! You've grown to fine beauty!" Helio chuckled as Arisa walked up.

"Good to see you too. Hope you aren't causing Ra and Rin trouble." Arisa said and Helio scoffed.

"Aye, those suckers' siblings of mine finally grew spines, ga! And I am finally an uncle. At least on Ra's side." Helio snorted as he looked at the three houses once more, "Whole lot of children, damn! You got ya hands full. Hmm...yup.." he shook his head, "Figured child of Gautier was here. I never miss the orange hair of flames, ga. Pha! Ya shoulda seen Margrave Gautier back then! Son of bitch he is but damn, I admire the way he wielded that Lance of Ruin!" He chuckled.

"I'm assuming you hold a grudge?" Christian said.

"Pah! Why would I hold a grudge? Hell, the Faerghus Lord may have invaded us back then, but I know not all the people of Fodlan are bad. Besides, I met you and your sister. You kids may be young but cha wise beyond yer years, ga! Anyhow," he extended his hand to Chris again, "good to see you again lad! As the Sreng War Monks Battalion, you have my word that we will fight by your side!" He smirked and the shocks hands, grinning.

"By the way," Arisa spoke, "have you...gotten your hands on a few gems for me? Remember, we made a deal." She smiled coyly and Helios chuckled.

"Lass, I keep my end of deals always. I got cha opals you wanted as well as the jade." He said as one his men walked up and handed her a backpack size bag.

"Thank you~" Arisa sang as she warped the bag away, "And I got you what you wanted. We secured a trading route with my father's company and Anna is very happy with the deals she has made." She smiled.

"You wanted to do a jewel trade you could have just told me!" Hilda yelled out.

"Next time Hilda dear!" Arisa sang back and Claude snickered at the pout the pink haired girl did.

"By the way," Helio said, "I know Christian here is married but...when you get a man? Or woman? Or both." He said and Arisa began sputtering in Spanish.

Suddenly the topic became very interesting for many people.

"Oh come lass! I remember when we drank to our heart's content at the border and you began drunk singing love songs! Hell, Rin and many of the females were all asking who hurt you. Damn, the songs of heartbreak you sang." He laughed and Arisa just covered her face, groaning loudly.

"Look, the topic of marriage is a taboo subject for her. How many times have I said not to bring it up?" Christian sighs.

"It's alright...Ugh...ha! Me in a relationship?! Yeah. I don't see that till at least in another 5 years! I'm in no rush. Besides, I have a beautiful boy I adopted. I'm a professor and book writer. I'm happy with my current life. No need for me to look for love right now. Besides, searching for your love makes you look desperate. Who knows? I probably maybe already told my soul mate to fuck off." Arisa scoffs while Chris just face palms right there.

"I really think this is a topic we discuss...ADULTS ONLY!" He said out loud for everyone to hear.

Quite a few students were snickering.

"Pah! Fine! How about at the tavern after the mission? Your treat Chris?" Helios laughs in Chris groans.

"Fine. Arisa I swear to God if you get drunk and start singing Plastic Love again, I'm throwing ice water over you." Chris groans and Arisa just giggled.

"Hai Hai Oni-san!" She gave him a smug smirk as the boy cringed at her fake Japanese accent, she would use to tease him.

"Hey hey. Just don't. I know very well you can speak Japanese fluently. Don't use the accent. The cringe is real." He growled lightly and Aris still laughed.

"I know, I know. I'm still teasing you. Anyhow," she turned back to Helio, "I'm glad you and the others came. I'm going to be honest, while the enemy is the Western Church, there is a chance their numbers are large. So, we need to worry about formation. If possible, pincer attack. Tactics versus numbers." Arisa explained as the group began to walk towards the others.

"Do you have a map of the place? I like to see it so we can have an idea of what is happening." Helios said as Arisa nodded.

"Everyone, gather around." Chris says as Arisa took out a small jade shard and threw it in the air.

A map appeared above them, a projection of it. Many starred with wide eyes and amazement, but a few were confused at why the map looked like bricks till the Professor spoke.

"The gray and yellow squares represent the building structures like walls, pillars and such. The red marking with weapons represents enemies. The blue ones with weapons represent us. Enemies main goal," she made a circle motion with her index finger, a circle appeared on the red stair structure, " is there. Serios's tomb..." she muttered almost in a dazed tone.

Dimitri was observant. He grew to observe her a lot during the days she would teach them. His eyesight improved greatly as Alexandra trained him in the lance. His movements became swiffer. His punches are more potent thanks to Chris. Something about the white-haired male always felt familiar when they would spar. Something...just something about him felt like they have met before. The same case was Edelgard and Lestia. The three felt like they had met Christian before. Like they knew him all their life.

"Now." Arisa's voice made Dimitri focus once more.

"Hey Teach." Claude spoke and pointed to his neck, "What happened to your neck?" He chuckled but that chuckled was wiped off by how the woman quickly touched her neck, fear was in her eyes.

Dimitri was not stupid. He knew when something was wrong by the way her eyes trembled a bit.

"Hey." Mercedes suddenly spoke, "Did...someone... actually...?" She whispered and Arisa took a shaky deep breath.

"No...it's not like that..." Arisa muttered and gave her an unsure look as the grip covering her neck tightened, "It's just...seems I'm going to have to watch my back...I...never mind." She sighs and Chris gave her a worried.

"Sweety," Manuela walked up to her, "let's talk about later with some tea alright?" She gave her a reassuring smile and Arisa nodded, appreciating the older woman's kindness.

"Back to the original topic on the map." Chris spoke quickly, "So what do you think, Helios?" He said.

Dimitri felt anger as he looked over to Arisa.

"Who dare they lay their filthy hands on her...?" He internally snarled at the thought of some disgusting bastard trying to lay their hands on her.

How he wished to go find the son of bitch and kill him. He hissed quietly as he felt he may have another episode, his head pounding a bit as the dark voices of his mother and father whispered in his head.

"Fool. Kill if you must. A beast you are. Destroy those that harm. Bring us the heads of those that took our lives." Lamberts voice hissed in his mind.

"Dimitri?" He opened his eyes to see his sister look at him worried and he gave her a closed eye smile to reassure her.

He looked back to where the map was but froze the minute, he noticed Arisa was staring at him while everyone else was listening to Christian speak. She didn't have her hand on her neck anymore but pulled up the collar higher. She gave him a small smile then turned back to the map. Her expression then turned sour as she and Chris started getting in a heated discussion. It surprised him. Despite how heated the argument was, they never once raised their tone at each other. It was interesting to say the least. Arisa acted the same way when she would teach them or when Hubert would challenge her in her lessons. She kept a neutral and calm tone despite anger being in it, never raising it. The only time she truly did raise her voice was when she was furious. The image of that day four years ago in the cold winter, when she snapped, he had never seen so much rage and despair cross her features. He remembers when he asked Mercedes out of curiosity if he has seen her angry before. The kind woman was hesitant but said yes, and the sight was not pretty. It was clear to many, if not everyone, that Arisa only showed true anger when someone dared to try to bring harm to her family. Chris was the same way. Anger was only shown when those tried to bring harm to his family. Yes, when they first met, he was distant but eventually opened to them. Zander especially. Damn skirt chasers. The memory seems almost far away.

"Look," Alexandra spoke, "while I get you guys aren't agreeing with this set up, take a small break. May we discuss the other set ups for the north, south, east? Since the west is where the goddess tower is, the knights are guarding there." She said and Arisa nodded.

"Very well then. Alright, Group A. Hanneman and Hubert, you're up." Arisa said and suddenly hissed as she felt a sharp pain on her back

"Hey, you okay?" Chris spoke and surprised everyone as she quickly removed her cloak, moving her hair a bit for Chris to see her back.

Ingrid shot one look at Sylvain to keep him from whistling at the sight of Professor's back.

"I don't see anything." Chris muttered as he placed his hand on it, using a bit of a heal spell, "That should help." He said as she put her coat back on.

"Back to the subject," Hubert spoke about bitterly, "we will be guarding the main entrance. The gates. We'll be spread out for this part. Dorothea and Dominic have their battalions ready." Hubert explained and Arisa nodded in approval.

"Emily along with her medical team will be ready at all times." Hanneman said and the others nodded.

"Manuela and Lorenz." Chris said and the map changed to the East Wing.

"Very well then, we decided to keep a close formation since the area of the East wing is near forest territory. Forest and Annette will be using light magic to keep the area illuminated. There are dangers of assassins and archers. Should we encounter an ambush, or a frontal assault, Dedue, Petra and Selkie will deal damage. Marianne is stationed behind me and will be guarded with the help of Felix and Caspar." Lorenz explains and Arisa nodded.

"U-Umm..." Marianne spoke softly as she walked up to Arisa, "I-I have a suggestion." She meekly said and Arisa nodded, giving her a warm smile.

"I...umm...a couple of the animals that live in the Monastery...I can...speak with them. They...can help us pass messages and alerts. Is that alright?" Marianne said and Sadi quickly spoke.

"We can talk to animals also! Can we help?" Sadi yelled out and Marianne blushed a bit.

"If that's the case," Amir spoke, "Then I have no problem lending Puka to you Marie. He is an excellent messenger and can get to places very quickly." She smiled and the said fox suddenly began laughing, scaring a few people.

"Damn mut! I swear you're going to us all heart attacks!" Dominic huffed.

"Feh, I will lend to Hubert's group and Blanca, " the white wolf sat next to Hessian, "I'm putting you with Alex and Amir. Is that alright?" She asked.

"(Very well then.)" Blanca barked and turned to her beloved Hessian, the two nuzzling each other.

"Awwww! How cute!" Annette squealed.

"So, does that mean we're going to see wolf pups soon?" Linhardt commented and the two wolves froze.

"Linhardt!" Caspar said and Dimitri just covered his face, hiding his blush.

"(Oi boy! I'm still young! Not ready to be a father yet!)" Hessian barked at him and Marianne, Sadi and Amir chuckled.

"Back to the original subject before it strays." Chris quickly said, "Alex, Amir, and Sylvain?" He said.

Sylvain let go of a sigh and spoke.

"The area we are in is mostly where wagons come in as well as the knights. The road is a bit rocky but there is an advantage for both us and the enemy. Noire and Dwyer will support us from the nearby trees. Linhardt and Sadi will be focused on healing and will be guarded by Hilda and Ferdinand. Volouria and I will be in the front with Alex and Amir." He explained and Arisa nodded.

"Good job everyone." Everyone turned at the sound of footsteps, Emily heading their way, dressed in her uniform but the staff strapped onto her back.

"Why if it isn't Emma! Glad to see you're not using that 15-year-old form again!" Helios laughed and she rolled her eyes.

"Right, anyhow, we have another member that will be aiding us." Emily smiled as many looked with wide eyes as Crescent was muttering curses, he was wearing his warlock clothing.

"Who's the pretty boy?" Helios asked.

"Pfft." Arisa quickly covered her mouth to hide her laugh.

"Friend of mine from Morfis. Also, Rhea and Seteth have been trying to convince him to join the church but he refuses." Emily giggled and Crescent groans.

"Over my dead body I will work with those two!" Crescent growled and many of the students were surprised by this and had many questions.

"Hubert, I want you to see if you can find any information on this man." Edelgard mentally said and Hubert nodded.

"A secret meeting Professor?" Footsteps headed their way and Arisa knew who it was.

A smirk came on her face as the dark purple haired woman walked up to them with a hand on her waist, as well as a boy she had yet to speak with properly, Cyril.

"Glad to see you Shamir." The two females shook hands and she turned to the other three, "I have yet to meet you three properly. Arisa had spoken a lot about you guys. I am Shamir." Shamir introduced herself and the three nodded.

"Shamir is one of the Knights of Serios. And that little go-getter is-" Claude didn't get to finish.

"I work for Lady Rhea! And I'm Shamir's apprentice! Oh, the names Cyril." Cyril smiled and Arisa chuckled.

"So, you're the boy Sandy had been training with the wyverns! I do apologize if she has been hard on you. She is kind but strict." Arisa gave him a small bow and Cyril chuckled a bit nervous.

"Yeah...Umm...Sandy and Shamir are both amazing teachers. They have recommended me to go to your classes but I'm not a student." Cyril said.

"Nah, don't worry about it." Shamir said, "She doesn't mind if you go either. Feel free to go to her Archer seminar." Shamir said and Cyril looked at her a bit surprised.

"You work for Rhea?" Alexandra spoke and the boy froze when his eyes landed on her.

"You...you...have feathers..." he pointed to her forehead and the girl tilted her head confused.

"Yeah, so what?" Alexandra said and Claude quickly spoke.

"Don't worry about it." Claude said and the boy knew what legend of Almyra crossed Cyril's mind.

"Anyhow, yes I help Lady Rhea with all kinds of stuff. I got to protect Lady Rhea, so that's why I've gotta learn all I can from Shamir and Sandy." Cyril nodded.

"Cyril adores Rhea. That aside, if you need anything, ask. Also, send Feh if you need to. I got my own hawk ready just in case." She smirked and extended her right arm that had armor.

"(WHISTLE)" She whistled loudly, and the loud cry of a flying bird was heard.

Beautiful wings of gray flapped as razor sharp talons landed on her arm, black eyes blinked as many had their mouths opened wide.

"He's beautiful!" Arisa said as Chris whistles and his own eagle came flying in.

"A literal Black Eagle!" Ferdinand yelled out as Kuro landed on Chris' left arm.

"Ha! Who would have thought I would meet a fellow bird tamer." Shamir smirked, "This falcon of mine is a Dadga Falcon. Trained him to hunt but also for messages. His name is Lan. So, what's your eagles name?" She asked.

"His name is Kuro. Brought him from Brigid. As a chick. Raised him since then." Chris said proudly and Shamir just stared.

"Now I understand why you and Arisa are siblings." She sighs and continues, "Anyhow, like I said, if you need anything, ask. Got to go now, good luck to all of you." Shamir smiled and left.

[-]

"I've said this before and I will say it again, as your therapist, I will listen. Now, what happened? Take your time." Manuela said as she poured Arisa a cup of tea as well as herself.

The younger woman let go of a sigh the two were in the infirmary and honestly, she needed to talk. At least Manuela will help...hopefully.

"Last night, Chris and I went to investigate something regarding our past." She began and Manuela looked at her worried, "We temporarily split up and...I was attacked..." Arisa sighs as she touches her neck, "It was out of nowhere. I sense nothing of their presence. The person that attacked me was a woman...and...I did not like the way she touched me..." she shivered at the memory.

"Thankfully it wasn't extreme but she licked my neck and touched my waist...She calls herself ...Pittacus...The Doll Collector..." Arisa finished and Manuela eyes were wide.

"D-Did you just...say Pittacus...The Doll Collector...?" Manuela stuttered out.

"Wait...do you know her...?" Arisa said and Manuela shook her head.

"Okay, by the sound of it, you don't know. It's an urban legend that has lived in Enbarr for 200 years. It's told especially to young men and women of the nobility."

She sighs as she takes a sip of her tea.

"Around 200 years ago..." Manuela began.

Oh, did you hear?!

Hide your sons and daughters!

The lady of Horns has come!

She seeks the fairest of hair

The smoothest of skin

The most beautiful eyes

And the rarest blood

Careful, careful.

Do not wander the streets past the witching hour.

The lady of horns will touch and examine you.

If she sees you are beautiful, she will take you away.

You will never be seen again.

Beware of the giggle of the girl who prays at night holding her doll.

She collects and collects, for she sees all as dolls.

Beware of Pittacus, the Doll Collector

Arisa had to keep herself from nearly spitting out her tea listening to that story as she put down her cup.

"I can tell you never heard of this. Oh, come on Arisa! You have lived in Fodlan your entire life and never heard of this?! Sigh..." Manuela pinched the bridge of her nose and continued, "Anyhow, the origin of the story began in Imperial Year 979 when the corpses of both nobles of men and women were found in the alley ways of Enbarr. Females either had their hair cut off, eyes gouged out, and such. Males, same case. The worse extreme case was a couple that their skin was peeled off completely." She grimaced as she put her cup down.

"Are there any records on anyone that survived? Or managed to get away from her?" Arisa asked and Manuela thought for a moment.

"Actually...there are two cases..." Arisa scooted a bit closer, "The first one was a female from the Taguel clan. She was a mercenary traveling. I know those of the clans keep to themselves and such but this case rattled many. The woman barely managed to escape but her brown hair was cut off. She said that...some strange woman came up to her, saying her hair was beautiful and she would make a fine doll. And...she would sing." Manuela shivered.

"The poor taguel was traumatized and was helped to return back to her village safely. Now the second case...was a male. A noble of House Vestras." She said and Arisa was not liking this, "This case took place 60 years ago. The man had his eyes ripped out. He heard singing and a female voice saying he had fine eyes. Barely managed to get away. Sigh...

You speaking of your experience...it sounded far too familiar. If you encounter that woman again, run." Manuela said.

"Yeah...Florencio heavily wounded her." Arisa muttered and Manuela leaned forward, "Florencio ended up saving both me and Chris, heavily wounding that woman. He would have finished her off, but she used a warping spell to get away." Arisa sighs.

"Damm!" Manuela cursed, "But I'm glad Florencio saved you two. And, thank you for telling me this. Nothing that was said here will leave this room." She smiled warmly.

"Thank you, Manuela. I really appreciate it."

"Good. Now onto the topic of your love life."

"Drop it."

[-]

"Tomas."

Solon looked up from his desk and smiled when his eyes met those of a worried blue. Her feathers twitched a bit as she spoke.

"Are there any books on legends of Almyra?" She asked and a puzzle look came on his face.

"That is a rare question I am rarely asked. Legends that are not of Fodlan. Is there any specific one you are looking for?" He replied and she nodded.

"Hmmmm...are there any stories on Sirens? And I do not mean like the one's sailors speak of. Is there a book about different kinds of sirens?" She asked and Tomas smiled.

"Why of course! It is in the section of myths. You should find it there. Is that all?" He asked.

"Actually..." Her eyes gazed at him and he froze.

A smile that he was familiar with from many years ago rose on her lips as her canines show, her eyes squinted just a bit. Her eyes held a gleam of danger as she spoke.

"Is there a book on the ancient magic of the era of the gods? I heard stories of the False God and ancient magic. I have been quite interested on the subject. I believe the term Agratha was used. Not completely sure but I would love to learn more of such. As well as Lost Song." She grinned.

Solon should not know and should not feel fear, yet with this girl, he was.

"Ah! Sadly, those are in Abyss. But I do have one book on the magic of the lost age you seek." He smiled as he took a book from under his desk and handed it to her.

It was black covered book with hieroglyphics she had never seen but she could read them thanks to Cirina.

"Thank you, Tomas. Have a good day." She smiled and turned to leave.

Once gone, Solon let out a shaky breath. It felt like she was testing him, and it was unsettling.

[-]

"Did you see his face?! Priceless! Ha! The old goon didn't see it coming. But back to the subject." Cirina giggled excitedly as Alexandra climbed up a tree near the forest to relax a bit, "This is Agarthan magic and like Seteth says, forbidden. Spells and such are all here, but I do warn you, if you let darkness consume you, you'll be a goner." Cirina said as Alexandra nodded.

"Honestly, I'm not going to be giving the book back." Alexandra said as she took out her relic tome and placed the black book on it.

The Crest stone on it glowed as did the black book, it turned to dust, getting absorbed by the tome.

"Hphm. That damn Anacharsis, so she use my mother's ability to absorb data. Tch, if I had my own body, I would kill the bitch. But it's never easy...Anacharsis is famous for having multiple identities." Cirina grumbled as she saw down next to her.

"What do you mean?" Alexandra asked and Cirina rubbed her temples.

"Aye...I may not have all my memories but...I remember...I dealt a fatal blow to that woman...I don't remember exactly what I did." Cirina sighs.

"No shit." Alexandra grumbled.

"Now there is your former self Theresa." Cirina giggled and Alexandra glared.

"I told you not to call me that." She growled.

"Seriously? You're denying your past self that saved you from Cornelia? Wow. Just wow. And I thought I was bitch." Cirina grumbled while Alex just sighs.

"Anyhow, we got company." Cirina said and Alexandra looked down.

Linhardt yawns as he makes his way and smiles as he looks up the tree, waving a bit.

"Good afternoon Alexandra. I see you are doing well. Taking a nap I suppose?" He said and she shook her head as she jumped down.

"Not really. Just reading a book I got. So, need something?" She was direct to him.

"Ah! Straight to the point. You remind me a bit of the Professor. Anyhow, would it be alright if I could investigate your Crest? As far as we know, you used to be a noble from the Kingdom. And, you wield a relic. One that is said to have been passed down only through the Aubin bloodline. So, in conclusion, you are a former noble of House Aubin, correct?" He smiled and Alexandra crossed her arms, a bit defensive.

"No offense...what...Crest do you bear...? I...um...don't feel very..." she muttered.

"Minor Crest of Cethleann. How interesting. A Crest that makes you uncomfortable." He looked her up and down for a bit.

"Look...Linhardt...I...am a former noble of House Aubin. To be more precise...I am the Heir to House Aubin. But...I perfect this life. Please do not tell the others my identity." Alexandra said as she looked down to the ground.

"It is alright. I am not that kind of person. But...it seems my Crest is having an effect on you. You look pale. Are you alright?" Linhardt said and she nodded.

"I...am...it's just...my crest makes me become alert or hostile towards those with a specific Crest. I don't mind sharing this information because I think it will keep you aware. Aware that you need to keep your distance for your safety. As well as...sigh...my crest...also creates a split personality." She muttered as she closed her eyes, remembering how Cirina nearly killed him, Claude, and Ingrid.

The guilt was deeply embedded into her. She had to erase their memories. She didn't want anyone to know that...monstrous side of hers as well as Cirina's existence.

"Fascinating." Did he really just pull out a journal and begin taking notes, "A Crest that turns their bear hostile towards others with a specific Crest and creates a split personality. Very interesting." He wrote and smiled softly to her.

"I apologize if I am making you feel uncomfortable. But...I think with this information, we can possibly find a way to help you." He said and her head went up to him with wide eyes, his feathers twitching rapidly.

"I must admit, you look cute with those feathers. I'm assuming another feature that is unique to your crest." Linhardt chuckled and Alexandra coughed.

"I'm still here. Go get a room." Cirina grumbled as she disappeared in a shower of blue dust.

"Cough!" Alexandra coughed, "Thank you for the compliments. But umm..also, thank you for being considerate and not pressuring me to speak. I appreciate it." She smiled warmly to him and Linhardt froze.

"Oh course! And no need to thank me. But...if you do...hmmm..." he thought for a moment.

Unfortunately, none of them noticed a certain brown-haired diva spotted them and was hiding behind one of the pillars, watching with a gleam in her green eyes.

"Would you perhaps, like to study with me at times? The library has an area where food is allowed. Maybe we can study magic together?" He suggested and she smiled warmly.

"I am happy to!" She grinned at him and the boy felt his heart skip a beat.

"Hmm...strange." Alexandra thought, "I don't feel...tense around him like I do with Claude and Sylvain. Strange." She thought.

"I appreciate it." He smiled and the two-left chatting towards the library.

[-]

"Everyone, I got something juicy~"

Dorothea sang as she walked to the table where Mercedes, Hilda, and Lestia sat. A seat away was Claude with Sylvain, Felix also. Dominic just shrugged as he continued to eat with Caspar.

"Spill." Hilda grins.

"I think I just witnessed Linhardt ask Alexandra to date!" She said happily and Claude and Sylvain looked like they saw a ghost as both turned towards the females.

"Ehhhh?" Lestia said, "My bets were on Ashe. But never mind, he and Petra have been hanging out together and same with Alex." She took a bite of her food.

"Oh, my~" Mercedes giggled, "Speaking of such, Dorothea, you seem to have your eyes on a certain one eye man." She giggled and Dorothea chuckled.

"I wouldn't go after him." Hilda said as she propped her elbow on the table, resting her cheek on the palm of her hand, "I heard he's married." She said.

"That I can confirm." Claude spoke, making the females turn to him, "On the day the Professor saved us, that's how we met Christian. I'll be honest, the Professor never once mentioned she had a brother back then. And I technically was trained by her." Claude said as he took a sip of his drink.

"She mentioned she had a younger brother several times but...never once she mentioned she had an older brother." Lestia said and Felix grunted.

"I don't see why you all are interested in the professor's personal life. So what if she had a brother or not? She does not talk about her personal life. Deal with it." Felix grunted and many just stared at him.

"What?" He says and takes a bite of his food.

"Someone smitten?" Lestia smirked and Felix just began groaning.

"No. Nothing like that. None of you noticed did you...?" He muttered and many looked at him confused.

"I do." Sadi's voice suddenly rang as she sat down next to Sylvain.

"Notice what?" The others said and Sadi and Felix shared one look, a stare down for a few moments and nodded to each other.

"What did you two just do?" Sylvain said.

"Nothing." Sadi smiled at him.

"Say Sadi, want to go to the marketplace later? Since the Professor is letting us relax before tomorrow?" He gave her a wink.

"Sure. We need to get some groceries anyway. By the way, would you like me to cook you a meal next time? I remember how much you like it when I make you meat pie. It has been awhile since I cooked you one. Would you like it?" Sadi smiled warmly and everyone was just staring at Sylvain like he grew a second head.

"Cough! Sadi, you weren't supposed to say that...out loud." Sylvain coughed and she looked at him confused.

"Why? I like cooking for you and the others. Reminds me of Duscur. Like Mercie told my brother, "Duscur may be gone, but you're still here." As long as I'm here, my homeland lives on." She giggled happily.

Lestia chuckled at their interaction and eyes wandering to the serving area.

"Hey. Look." Lestia tapped at Hilda and the two females grinned seeing Chris come in with a young woman that Claude instantly recognized.

"Hey, that's her! His wife!" Claude pointed and to the couple.

Lestia looked like she was seeing a ghost. Mercedes noticed how pale the girl had become as her eyes looked at the couple.

"Gina...that can't be her..." Lestia's hand shook a bit as the couple made their way to the table where the Professor, Manuela, Hanneman and Emily sat at. Arisa had stood up and hugged the woman, happy to see her.

"I decided to do a quick drop by. Florencio wanted to let you know that he will be coming sometime next month along with the kids. Anyhow, it was nice meeting you all. Take care." And the woman waved, leaving out the door, warping away.

"It's not Gina...It's not Gina...breath.." Lestia mentally told herself as she took deep breaths.

She just hopes everything will be alright tomorrow.

- Late at Night -

It's been awhile since she has spoken to Beleth and she believed it was time the two had a proper talk. Unfortunately, Tomas had closed the library tonight so here she was, near the green house, walking towards Beleth's room. As she made her way there, she bumped into someone. The person nearly fell but she caught them on time by the waist.

"Ah! Sorry! Are you alright?" Arisa said as she helped them stand up straight.

"Affirmative. Thank you." She heard a Male voice and looked down.

The boy had light peach skin, with combed down short gray colored hair, wore the clothing of a dark mage but color white, like Tomas. Unfortunately, she could not see his face since he wore a fox mask that did not cover the part of his mouth.

"Oh, are you new here?" Arisa blinked as she assumes the 15-year-old boy is.

"Correct. Pleasure to meet you Miss Arisa." He gave her a polite bow, "Name is 59." The boy said and she blinked.

"Your name is a number?" She asked and he titled his head, a bit confused.

"Is that a problem?" 59 asked and she shook her head.

"No no. I was just thrown off a bit. Anyhow, are you lost?" She asked and he shook his head.

"Negative. I am heading to my room near Sir Tomas. I must be going. It was a pleasure to meet you Lady Arisa." The boy named 59 said and gave her a polite bow before he left.

Arisa was worried at why his name was a number. For right now, she shrugged off the strange feeling she had as she made her way to Beleth's room. A soft knock she did since she could see some light from the door crack.

"One moment." She heard the male voice say and a few seconds later the door opened.

"Ah! Professor, I am glad to see you." Beleth smiled warmly as he opened the door and let her in.

Inside the room was simple. A clean bed with dark green sheets and a cream-colored blanket with pillows. The walls held very little things. A map on the right one, a few weapons hanging on the second. She blinked as noticed the armor of knight but looks like it was custom made, just for Beleth. His desk was a simple one made of red wood with two shelves on both sides. Near the window, there were a candle as well as some art supplies and a violin.

"Please have a seat." Beleth said as the two walked over to a squared table he had set up with tea and some snacks.

The chairs were comfy, and she was happy to see he wasn't into fancy things. But then again, this male Byleth. He isn't some character in a game anymore. He is a real person. At some point in her life, Arisa had stopped comparing certain events to the games. Major changes have happened; the fact she has experienced them, made her have a strange feeling of unease.

"Mint Blend. Nice." She smiled as Beleth gave her a shy smile.

"I am glad it is to your liking." he said as he took a sip of his tea, "Mint has always been my favorite blend. My mother and Seteth aren't fans of it." He chuckled.

Arisa smiled softly as she took a sip then spoke.

"I'm glad we finally get to talk." She muttered and he nodded.

"So am I..." he muttered as he placed his cup down slowly.

"His tone. Be on guard." Sothis spoke and Arisa was silent as the man looked to her with the same voidless expression she makes when she is upset.

"5 years you hid your identity. All my life I believed you had died after Sitri did. I searched for Jeralt for years. Then you suddenly come back to your birthplace, and my mother focuses all her attention on you. She treats you like something special." Beleth said slowly and she spoke.

"You think I am enjoying this game of favoritism? I am not. I am very unsettled with the way your mother looks at me. She wants something from me, and I know she would be willing to hurt me or others to get it. Rhea is becoming unhinged." Arisa answered smoothly.

"I am no fool. I see the way she looks at you and it is disturbing. Be honest, you find the way she looks at you repulsive?" Beleth grumbled.

"I do." Arisa closed her eyes as she sighs, "And look...I get you're jealous." And Beleth winced because Amir called him out on it, "But at the same time I can't get away even if I wanted to. I can guarantee that if I tried to leave Fodlan, she would hunt me down. Beleth, I don't want to be put at a higher pedestal. I just want to be me. I hope this clears up any misunderstandings." She said as she opened her eyes again and he nodded.

"It's understandable. And I apologize if I came off hostile. Speaking to you now face to face... .I understand that you truly do not like this treatment of favoritism. If you tried to bring it up to her...or even me...I know she will become defensive." Beleth sighs as he saw her pick up a grape, plopping the sweet fruit in her mouth, she nodded at his words.

"Thank you." She replies, "But, how about we talk about something else?" She smiles, "Since technically we are cousins, we haven't had a lot of time to actually get to know each other. So, I'll start off. Any hobbies?" She smiles.

"A few. Personally, other than weapon maintenance, I like helping people as well as making tea." He smiles.

Their talk was simple and sweet. Like normal friends talking to each other. A talk like this, was something she missed.

"By the way," he said, "My mother has assigned me to your group." And he started laughing when Arisa spit out her tea.

"Excuse me what?! Till now you tell me!?" Arisa screeched as she was recovering.

"Forgive me, I am quite enjoying your reaction right now." He smirked with a bit of a sadistic look on his eyes.

"You sadist." Arisa coughed as she now recovered, "The fact your mother told me nothing about this, I'm pissed." She grumbled and he chuckled.

"You get used to it." He gave her the blank look with a tired smile, and both groan out loud.

"Well one thing we both definitely have in common." Arisa sighs.

"Our parents keep too many things hidden from us." Beleth grumbled back and both could not help but chuckle at this.

"It's getting late. You should head back to your room. Would you like me to walk you?" He asked and she shook her head.

"It's alright. And thank you Beleth. See you tomorrow." Arisa waved as she left out the door, closing gently.

Beleth smiled warmly as he looked over to the painting of him, his mother and Sitri.

He smiled sadly as memories poured in.

"She really does remind me of your aunty."

[-]

It's been awhile since she walked to her room and she was not surprised to run into someone but the main person she was surprised to run into was Dorothea herself. A rarity to see the girl walking around at night.

"Ah, Professor! Seems I've been caught. But then again, you've caught me talking to different guys as of lately." Dorothea smiled as the two were now walking down the student dorms together.

"I understand it was none of my business so that is why I chose not to say anything, even if I wanted to." Arisa said as she waved her hand a bit and Dorothea smiled.

"Ah yes! You look like you had something to say, Professor. But you chose to hold it back. But now that we are alone..." they stopped near Arisa's bedroom door, "How about you speak out now?" She smiles.

"Well...alright. Be warned I am brutally honest at times." Arisa looked back to the girl.

Dorothea internally shivered as the Professor's eyes looked at her. She was terrified of those eyes that looked like they could see right through her soul. She was also terrified of Chris, Amir's, and Alexandra. All four of them had those eyes.

"Truthfully, I am worried about you. Yes, I understand that you worry about your age and that beauty will go but I see it as more than something else. Cynical depression." Arisa said and Dorothea blinked multiple times.

"Pardon?" Dorothea narrowed her eyes.

"Dorothea, I warned you that I am brutally honest, and I am saying not just as your Professor, but because I care about you. You heard the saying of "You can't find love unless you love yourself?" Well, in a way, that is the case. I know you do not like yourself." Arisa took a step forward, "Constant worry of appearance is due to years of surviving hardships. Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness." She took another step.

"Stop. Stop. Stop. Stop shattering my mask." Dorothea mentally screamed as the Professor was now a few inches from her face.

"The role of the diva can only last for so long my dear student. I know what it is like to wear it. Age you fear but what about the knowledge that comes with it? Wisdom comes with years. If you cannot learn to see that there is more to you than beauty and age, you will blind yourself of what is in front of you." Arisa gave her a sad smile and Dorothea chuckled a bit bitterly.

"Look, I know what I'm doing. My acclaim as a diva will not last forever, after all. I must look to the future. As a fellow female, I am surprised you may not feel so rushed about these things, but I know my beauty will eventually fade." She said and Arisa smiled.

"And?" Arisa said.

"Excuse me?" Dorothea gawks.

"Like I said when I first came to this place. Perfection does not exist. Beauty is something that we create. Beauty is how we see something. I worry not of my age nor things like beauty. But that is me. Everyone has their own thoughts and opinions on that subject." Arisa replied.

"I figured. You look like the type that does not care. Anyway, I'm not just playing games with these boys. This is for my future. You have no right to object. I very much want to find a good partner here at the academy. Someone who will take care of me for the rest of my life." Dorothea answered back.

"Right but...Is that truly what you want? Someone to take care of you? Do you not wish to stand on your own two feet?" Arisa smiled sadly.

"Finding someone to take care of me? Of course, it is! Who could ask for anything more? Anyway, I value your opinion, Professor, but I won't have you interfering with my plans. Unless you'd like to take care of me into my old age? That'd be something, eh? How about it, Professor?" Dorothea winked at her and Arisa chuckled.

"Sure. After all, someone has to keep an eye on you. Can't have me sweet student go crazy?" Arisa teased dramatically and put her hand over her heart.

" I wasn't – You aren't being serious, are you? I was just teasing. Or did you really just consider spending your whole life with me? The thought hadn't crossed my mind before but come to think of it...that might sound pretty nice. You've gotten awfully quiet... You might even be blushing a bit. Have I embarrassed you? If so, I'm very, very sorry. I should be going anyway. I'll see you later... Professor." Dorothea smiled as she waved goodbye and left.

The diva could feel Arisa's eyes still on her as she made a turn to her room. Dorothea felt exposed. The Professor literally tore apart her mask easily. She could see right through her. She called her out and picked her one by one. She closed the door to her room, walking to the mirror, staring at it. Arisa's words were harsh, cutting through emotions like a knife but they were also the truth that Dorothea did not wish to acknowledge. Never had the Diva felt so exposed. There was one other person that she had a similar conversation with two days ago with Christian.

"You say that...but...that isn't what you really want."

"Do you not wish to stand on your own two feet?"

The words of the two siblings cut through her emotions like butter, a harsh truth and lessons that needed to be said.

"Eh?" Dorothea felt something hot run down her cheeks, and gently touched it.

A light shine on her fingers, she realized they were tears. Her mind then began to travel back to when she first met them. Karma would be the Ward she would use. Karma coming back at her for those years ago she called Christian a monster despite him saving her.

"Haha...Professor...your words are true..."

[-]

"What the hell are you doing in here?"

Okay, not the best way she wanted to return to her room. Especially finding a certain prince in her room. And no not Dimitri, thank the lord. No, a certain Almyran prince.

"What? Not going to greet your little deer?" Claude smirked as she let go of a sigh, closing the door to her room.

She quickly turned on the light to make sure no one got some strange misunderstanding.

"I'm serious. Why are you in my room?" Arisa smiled and Claude gave her a small smile.

"Teach, are you alright? With how you reacted when I asked about that marking on your neck..." he said, and Arisa twitched.

"Dimitri was here too but I kicked him out." Claude lied and knew he forcefully made the prince hide in the Professor's closest.

Arisa knew the barrier would have kicked them out if they had any malicious or were scheming something the barrier, she had in her room wouldn't have let them come in at all. As a matter of fact, it would have warped them back to their rooms. The Faerghus prince was silent as Arisa let go of a sigh, touching her neck.

"I already spoke with Manuela about it. Please do not try and pry that information out of me." She replied as she placed her hand on her neck.

"Teach, I'm not that type of person." Claude said.

"So, he says." Sothis muttered, "But he speaks the truth. He is afraid. Not of you but of those around. He is afraid that you will hate him." The goddess hums and Arisa sighs as she raises her hand, patting his head.

Claude blushed a bit but she spoke.

"I know you are not that type of person. And neither are you the type to jump to conclusions." She replies as Claude makes a quick glance to the closest, "Anyhow, head back to your roo-wait, what do you mean Dimitri was in here also?! What the hell were you guys looking through my room?" The fact that she never raised her voice was a miracle but there was still frustration in it.

"What? Little Prince was worried for you. Come on, it's obvious he likes you. The pinning is terrible to watch. Plus, there are a few more pinning after you." Claude snickers as the woman just groans, unaware that said prince was in her closet, listening to all this.

"Look, Claude, I get you're getting me back for nearly saying Alexandra was your first kiss." Oh, so now Dimitri had information against him, good.

"Whoa whoa! No need to bring that up!" Claude said quickly and she just sighs.

"What I'm saying is that I know many have a crush on me. It's not the first time it has happened, and it won't be the last." Arisa sighs and he frowns.

"So, you are aware then..." he muttered, and Arisa spoke.

"I am...well aware of what others feel towards me. And I wish to remain professional. Like I said, I love each and every single one of you equally. Nothing more, nothing less." Arisa replied as he took a step closer.

"Teach, every time you speak, it sounds like you're giving your final speech. I'm not an idiot. I saw what happened 4 years ago. The day you left with Amir, I was in the stables." He said and saw her freeze.

Dimitri was silent as he continued to watch as he took another step.

"You...you..." she stuttered as her hands balled into fist, gritting her teeth.

"Arisa...are...you dying...?" Claude muttered and her head shot up, her eyes wide.

"No...that can't be true..." Dimitri thought and his hope shattered upon her next words.

"7-8 months..." She muttered as she looked to Alliance heir, "I have left." She smiled sadly and the two looked at her shocked.

"Teach we c-!" She raised her hand and smiled sadly.

"This conversation..." He felt her magic spike, "Never happened."

"NO!"

The prince shot out of the closet, lunging at her, pinning her down to the floor. Her eyes wide as air was knocked out from her lungs.

"Get off!" Arisa yelled and Claude let go of a deep breath.

"Dimtri...I think you would be better to talk to her. I think I only... brought a taboo subject. Teach...I'm sorry...I really..." Claude quickly jumped out the window.

"Get off..." this time her voice sounded like a snarl and he looked back to her, eye blue eyes looking at her own.

"No. Why did you hide this? How many know? Just how much are you hiding?" Dimitri said and she just stared at him.

"Sothis." Arisa thought and the goddess shook her head in disapproval at what the woman was about to do.

"You're going to regret this." Sothis muttered.

"I know." Arisa thought and closed her eyes.

"Go back 10 minutes."

Time pulse activated; the world around swirled. She saw Dimitri's eyes go wide and the world changed again. 10 minutes back, and she was standing outside her door once more. The conversation with Dorothea was fresh, and the woman just stared at her door, then turned, heading to her brother's room. It was a five-minute walk to the second floor, the room near the stairs, knocking on the door. The door opened and Chris blinked multiple times, seeing her.

"Arisa...? What are you doing here?" He asked and he let her in.

"Can I stay here tonight?" Her eyes were down casted, she was shivering.

Not out of fear, out of sadness, out of guilt. He stared at her for a few seconds and nodded.

"10 minutes...something happened?" He asked and Arisa was just silent as she went behind the wooden changing wall, to change to her nightgown.

"Yeah...and I don't want to talk about it..." she muttered and he let go of a sigh.

"Alright then." He muttered and she walked out and flopped on his bed.

"Hey! Right side is mine!" He grumbled and she began snickering.

"Okay, looks like you're feeling a bit better." He said and she sighed once more.

"Dimitri and Claude are in my room." She said.

"Say no more." He grabbed his bat and left to kick them out.

Sothis snickered then spoke.

"I'm going to go watch. Goodnight." Sothis smiled as she put Arisa to sleep.

With that done, she quickly went to see the scene and sure enough, the two princes bolted past her as if they were getting chased by the devil, each one slamming the doors to their rooms shut. Both had the looks of pure terror when they passed her. Sothis could not help but burst out laughing as she watched Chris heading back up the stairs, shaking his head.

"Damn kids. I tell Arisa to head back but I'm pretty sure you knocked her out already." He sighs and blinked multiple times as he saw the door to Edelgard's room open.

The girl came out, looking shaken. He knew and decided to see if she was alright.

"It's late isn't it?" He spoke softly and Edelgard nearly screeched.

She turned around scowls the minute she knew who it was.

"Oh, it's you." She said bitterly and he chuckled.

"No need to be so cold. I was out patrolling. Caught Dimitri and Claude trying to break into my sister's room." Yup, he's throwing them under the bus on purpose.

"What?! Claude I can see but Dimitri? I don't believe it." She huffed as she crossed her arms.

"Believe what you want. Anyhow, here." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a hard candy, handing it to her.

Edelgard froze when she recognized the wrapped candy. They were her favorite...

"Cherry hard candies..." she muttered as he placed it in the palm of her hand.

"Hey. Glad you like. These are homemade. I like baking when I have free time as well as making sweets like this." He smiled but noticed her frowning.

"Why are you being nice to me?" She asked and he blinked.

"Is it wrong to be worried about my student?" He replied back and she blinked, "Come on. Let's take a walk. I noticed you have been having trouble sleeping. This should help." He smiled warmly and the two walked down the hallway.

[-]

Walking through the woods was strange yet somehow relaxing for the imperial princess as they walked through a grassy area. The sky was clear and the star shining down. Edelgard noticed Christian looking at the sky with a distant look in his eye. She always wondered what happened to his other eye. They arrived at a grassy field and he suddenly smiled as he pointed to the sky.

"See that consolation?" He pointed to the sky, "The one that looks like two stick figures?" He said.

"Pfft." She laughed a bit and quickly tried to hide it, "Cough! Yes, the twin warriors of Fodlan. Legend says that the two warriors once served Emperor Kinison von Hersvelg, the 4th Emperor of the Empire. The two twins fought many great battles and helped the people of Fodlan." She explained and Chris chuckled.

"Yup. But they also go by another name." He said and she smiled sadly as she looked up.

"Gemini correct? The twins Castor and Pollux, also known as Dioscuri from a culture called Greek." She muttered and Chris looked at her.

"Yeah. Glad to know I'm not the only one that knows this." He chuckled.

"My elder brother..." Edelgard began," Loved reading about history and politics. I always found it amazing how he knew such different cultures I never heard of. I remember he would talk about different political systems and ways that could be done to help people. He even would bring the ideas to our father. I loved it when he would talk about the stars and constellations." She smiled as she looked to the sky, bittersweet memories returning.

Chris smiled sadly as he looked back to the sky. Indeed, when he was only "Chris" his younger self would always talk about cultures from his old world. He always wondered back then how he had such knowledge, but he didn't care back then. He would talk about Nordic, Aztec, native American, Greek, Spanish, and so much of the cultures in the past. He loved talking about different gods from those cultures and honestly the weird looks he would get; he did not care. He remembers bringing different political views to his father and the adult man was surprised by how knowledgeable his son was. Even if his son did not have a Crest, he believed he would make an amazing advisor and minister to work with his sister. Now, those dreams gone.

"Your brother sounds like an amazing person. Introduce me to him one day." He smiled and she nodded.

"One day..." Edelgard muttered.

Edelgard wished she could hear and speak to her brother. She knows he is alive because he writes to her every month. She wondered why she felt the need to speak of him in front of this man. Christian was a bit like Felix but was kind. His personality was very much like Arisa's but he also had a similar personality like her older brother. Like with the Professor, she felt safe with him.

And not just him. For the first time, she felt safe here in the monastery. She swore herself she would not bring herself to care and trust others but being put in different groups, all house leaders working together these past few months. Their build in trust and bonds growing more by the day. Truthfully, she was terrified. She was making promises that were going to be broken once her plans started to take action.

"On an ocean of stars, lo an angel they see, untouched by the war, that they waged~" Edelgard sang softly.

"Laid low by their scars, A people wounded, but free. Seek what lies beyond, This dark age." He sang back and the girl looked at him with wide eyes as he chuckled.

"I know that song anywhere in the world. Grew up singing it." He smiled.

Edelgard nodded as she opened the candy, plopping the red jewel in her mouth. The familiar taste...

"Don't...cry...don't cry...don't cry..." The princess mentally said to herself because the taste was the same as the ones her brother would make for her and her siblings.

Chris smiled sadly and patted her head.

"It's alright to cry. After, as a friend, I care about you." He smiled warmly at her.

On that night, something within the princess changed. For the first time in many years, Edelgard felt true happiness and a small weight of her shoulders lifted. The goddess watched with a warm smile on her as she turned to her child form, hugging the girl from behind, like she does to many. The princess felt warmth surrounding her, and closed her eyes, feeling sleepy as she let go of a yawn.

"Let's get you back to your room." Chris chuckled as the girl nodded and suddenly fell asleep, thankfully he quickly caught her.

"Damn you Sothis." He growled at the goddess who just giggled mischievously.

"What? You used to carry her like this when you two were kids. I remember." The goddess snickered as the former prince picked up his sister in his arms.

"Hmmm...Chris..." Edelgard muttered and the goddess smiled.

"Sigh...thank you."

- The Next Day -

"Dimitri...you're too close..."

This was a very awkward moment since Arisa has been caught alone near the stables early in the morning and well...she encountered Dimitri, who she wanted to avoid for obvious reasons. They were behind some crates and worse, the sun was just BARELY peeking. If this was a romantic situation, it would be quite the scandal. Okay, maybe it was? Yes? No? With both hands onto the wall, caging her in with no escape (use a fucken warping spell) azure eyes looked intensely if not also worried at her own forest eyes.

"You used that spell in Zanado, didn't you?" He said a bit slowly and he did not miss the way her eyes ever so slightly widened.

"Oh my~" Sothis squealed, "Well dear, I am for sure happy I am watching this." The goddess giggled and Arisa wanted to cuss her out.

"I don't know what you are talking about? What spell?" Arisa gave him a closed eye smile with a flowery aura.

The prince just gave her a blank face. She did not know he had the ability to sense magic and he shouldn't. Even Sothis was spooked. But the goddess did have an idea why. After all, it was the girl's fault when she was in a chaotic state, she pushed Dimitri away for his safety, some of her power flowed into him, 4 years ago. It must have triggered something in him.

"Arisa, I am no fool. I remember in Zanado I sensed you used some sort of spell to save Lysithea, Lestia and Ferdinand. Four times. The battle against Lord Lonato...around 4 times you used it...Last night you used it to avoid going to your room. You knew Claude and I were in there." He didn't mention that Christian appeared looking like he was about to murder them alive on the spot.

The two boys fled for their lives after witnessing how terrifying Arisa's brother was.

"Why were you in my room, eh?" Arisa huffed as she crossed her arms under her chest, pushing them up a bit.

"Don't you dare look down." Dimitri scolded himself then spoke, "Claude and I wanted to check on you...regarding the mark on your neck. We are worried." He sighs as he removed his hands.

"Dimitri, I understand you are all worried. I spoke with Manuela and I was fine. I promise." Arisa tried to reassure him.

"Physical yes. Emotionally and mentally, I do not believe so." Dimitri and suddenly noticed her demeanor change.

"I beg your pardon?" Arisa scowls, "I am asking for help with Manuela and Emily. They are both therapists and have been helping me. Christian and even Yuri have been helping me." A frustrated tone she spoke, "The one that really needs help is you! I said you could come talk to me if anything troubles you and it's clear to me you have been dealing with something else on your own. So do not go saying that to me when you yourself have not allowed others to help!" Arisa raised her voice just a tab bit and Dimitri scowls.

"Just...how close are you...and Yuri? You haven't talked to me and a few others. I understand you are busy but you seem to be spending more time with him. I am grateful he is helping you but...what about the others?" Dimitri frowned.

"Look, I get you are jealous." Arisa sighs.

"Jealous? Me?" Dimitri laughed and Arisa gritted her teeth.

"Look." Bitterly she spoke, "Yes, Yuri and I have been speaking and spending a lot of time together but that does not mean I am neglecting my duty as your professor and friend. I care about you all and I have been splitting my time equally with all of you. I am a professor first and then I am me." She said clearly and Dimitri scoffed.

"If you say so." He grumbled and froze when she suddenly cupped his cheeks, making him look to her eyes.

"If I say so my ass!" RIP Arisa's image, time to unleash the Mexicana!

"YOU CRAZY PRINCELY PUNK?! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE JUDGING WHO I HANG OUT WITH?!" Her voice loudly boomed that unfortunately those that nearby could hear her.

"Umm...is that the Professor's voice..." Cyril was a bit scared.

Marianne, Sandy, Claude, Lorenz and Sylvain looked at each other confused. Ingrid just face palms.

"IT IS MY LIFE AND MY CHOICES! YOU MAY BE JEALOUS BUT THAT DOESN'T MEAN YOU CAN GO JUDGING ME! YA LITTLE HAVE YET TO MATURE AND UNTIL YOU PROPERLY HANDLE THINGS WITHOUT JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONSSO MUCH, THEN WE CAN SPEAK PROPERLY! SO, DON'T START ACTING LIKE SOME JEALOUS LOVE STRUCK PUPPY!" Arisa yelled out.

"Oowwwwwww...I think the Professor just murdered His Highness with her words..." Cyril cringed while Sandy was howling.

Arisa let go of the prince and stormed away before anything happened. She was huffing angrily, and looked like steam was coming off her. It was honestly a hilarious sight as a she stormed down the pathway and Sandy ran after her to hear what went down. Meanwhile, Ingrid and Sylvain quickly ran to the area and well...

"I...have never...once in my life...been so...called out..." Dimitri looked like a stone statue turning to dust.

"Oh, your highness..." Sylvain looked at his friend in pity, "You really...umm...how do I say it...um...Maybe stop being so...okay the pinning is terrible and she just called you out on it completely. Good luck." And that earned him a whack on the head from Ingrid.

Dimitri looked like he got stabbed by multiple arrows.

"Sylvain! We should be helping his highness, not making him feel worse!" Ingrid sighs, "But they're both right. The pinning is terrible to watch." And Dimitri felt betrayed.

"Look at your highness, you should go apologize to her after she has cooled down. Also, might as well get ready. The ceremony is in two hours." Sylvain sighs.

"Good luck!"

[-]

It was obvious to everyone in front that Arisa was pissed or upset. The woman doesn't know it but she has this child-like appearance when she is angry. Looking like a cute little girl. Unfortunately, Jeralt and the others never told her about it because she looked adorable and well, everyone must have their own fun in some way. Also, Jeralt's way of getting his daughter back after all the years of heart attacks she had given him. Lestia slides over to Arisa like someone sliding into her DM's. The princess has a smirk as she makes a mental connection with the professor.

"A little birdie told me what happened. " Lestia snickered as the group was just waiting for Dimitri and Chris to arrive.

The princess heard the Professor grunt and looked her up and down. She was wearing her battle dress and cloak. Of course, only she and Claude noticed that she always carried that one strange sword no one on this entire place has seen her unsheathed at all. Footsteps were heard as they saw Chris and Dimitri arguing over something and the white-haired man looked like he was having a field day. Claude was pretty much sure that Sylvain told him about what happened earlier. But what Chris carried on his back seemed to make everyone, but Arisa raise their eyebrows.

"Hey um...Teach, what's that?" Claude said to Chris, the boy pointing to the said item on his back.

On his back, wrapped in layers of bandages was some type of long weapon. They could tell it was a sword but its shape and such, not at all. Lysithea looked over to the sword on the professor's waist and thought the same. She also just barely noticed Hessian was sitting next to her.

"What are these two up to?" She thought and Arisa spoke.

"Good, you brought it." Arisa smiled as her brother walked up with Dimitri.

"Yup and I also learned what went down between you two. I found out from Cyril." Chris smirked and Dimitri looked away.

"Just end me..." the prince thought, and the woman just shook her head.

"Look, I'll let you off the hook this time, but my words remain true." Arisa said as Dimitri looked over to her, nervously, "Be more considerate next time alright? You're lucky you're cute." She said and many froze at her words.

"Y-You think...I'm cute?" Dimitri stuttered and tried not to smirk.

Lestia, Claude, and Mercedes had smiles.

"Yeah, so what?" Arisa bluntly replies, "I think everyone is cute. You're like little kids sometimes." She answered and shot down whatever everyone else was thinking.

"Professor Arisa, I feel betrayed!" Mercedes dramatically placed her hand on her chest and Arisa smirked as the two females walked over to each other.

"Oh Mercie! How could I forget?! You here are the true adult with the charm of beauty! I could never confuse you for a child! Please forgive me for my mistakes!" Arisa dramatically pretended to faint, and Mercedes caught her in her arms like some knight.

"Oh Arisa! I forgive thee! To be, or not to be? That is the question? Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer, The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them. To die—to sleep, No more; and by a sleep to say we end." Mercedes recited a quote from Shakespeare's Hamlet and everyone was looking at the female pair like they were going mad but a few like Yuri and Lysithea were trying really hard not to laugh.

"Ummm...Shakespeare's Hamlet...?" Bernadetta squeaked and it turned to a screech when Mercedes held her hand suddenly with sparkles in her eyes.

"Yes! Have you read Cecilia Schariac's books about William Shakespeare's plays?!" Mercedes excitedly spoke and a bit of a shine was shown in Bernadetta's eyes.

"Y-Yes...my uncle would bring me books to read from his trips...I love reading Romeo and Juliet especially." Bernadetta smiles softly.

The two fell into talking more on the subject and the students were surprised to see Bernadetta opening.

"Mercedes and Bernadetta have reached support C." Arisa smiled softly as she walked back to Dimitri and her brother.

"Anyhow, with all that going on." Dimitri coughed, "The Goddess Rite of Rebirth is here." He said and the three lords walked up, nodding.

"Time to see if our hunch was right." Claude smirked and Lestia grins.

"Leave to us Ari! We got this in the bag!" Lestia grinned.

"Careful Lestia. Make sure to stay in position." Edelgard replies.

"Time to get a game on!" Leonie yelled out and turned as they heard footsteps approaching.

"You all seem a mite too relaxed for my liking. The Goddess's Rite of Rebirth is about to begin." Seteth arrived with Flayn and Beleth.

The male knight nodded to Arisa, joining the group. Many were confused by this except Seteth.

"While we are in the Goddess Tower, we are relying on you to secure the locations lacking in defense. Beleth here has been added to your group as a last-minute thing. We also spoke to the other groups and they are set. Make sure to use the communication tools or spells if anything goes wrong." Seteth explains.

"Rhea does not allow her own son to be part of such an important event...? Could it be...that Beleth is being left in the dark about her actions?" Edelgard thought as she sent a glance to the knight.

"Yes, yes my dear son. Send in children that have barely any combat experience against the puppets of the snakes! The ones that threatened to assassinate the archbishop. For the love of God! Why?!" Sothis approached Seteth with arms extended.

She then turned to Christian and Arisa, pointing a finger at the man.

"Have all my children gone mad?! He is the elder! Elder! Why hasn't he spoken up or even stand up to confront his siblings! Even Lejare has more balls and he run away like a fly at times!" Sothis screeched while the two siblings shared glances at each other.

The two had to stop themselves from laughing at the Goddess's tone. Unfortunately, through the years, Sothis picked up their cursing habits. Was it considered blasphemy when a goddess herself starts cursing profanities? Sothis was sarcastic, blunt, truthful, crass, loving, kind, and serious when she would speak eloquently. Most of the time when a situation was serious. Other than that, the goddess was just a normal girl who loved watching others and wanted to enjoy life like many. She didn't ask to be worshipped.

"May I let you in on something Professor and Christian? " Flayn spoke with a bit of mischief in her eyes, "My brother can be...a bit callous." Cue, Ashe had to stop himself from snickering and unfortunately it wasn't stopped because Beleth mimicked Seteth's stone face just to add some fuel to the fire.

"He told me he was concerned about you both and hinted you would be better patrolling a coffin!" Flayn said with a grin and Sothis was cackling loudly at how her son gawked at her granddaughter with wide eyes.

"Well," Arisa began, "with the type of security they have here, "Chris spoke, "not even a coffin can be protected." He finished and Sothis screamed.

The goddess falling to her knees, the sound of her banging the floor with her fist as she screamed in a fit of laughter at her granddaughter's words. Many were trying not to laugh. Claude and Lestia were laughing loudly while Bernadetta, Lysithea and Ashe were using each other as support. Raphael was laughing and Leonie was just barely holding her own in because of her puffed cheeks. Edelgard has placed a hand over mouth, using Mercedes for support. The older woman's smile only seemed to grow as Dimitri was snickering. Yuri had a shit eating smirk.

"You should have seen what happened last year." Beleth spoke, "Thief broke into the vault, had to chase that son of bitch down the river. Security here really needs work if even a thief and sheep can sneak in." Beleth grinned and Sothis howled even louder as the laughter of the students grew.

Seteth shook his head and was spinning, realizing the sharp words being traded back and forth between his daughter, nephew and the two siblings.

"Flayn and Beleth! That was said in jest. And in confidence! Please remain by my side Flayn and do not cause any more trouble." He said and Flayn pouted angrily at him.

"And you three!" He directed his glare at the two siblings and knight, "you three would remember that it is your duty to guide the students down the path of righteousness! Be mindful that you three are to set good examples for them!" He says and Beleth scoffs as he puts his hands behind his neck.

"Whatever you say Uncle." Beleth lazily says while two siblings snickered.

"No promises!" The two said together and Seteth was fuming while the others were still laughing.

"Hahah! Please excuse us, everyone! We shall see you again after the ceremony has concluded!" Flayn snickered and the two left, walking the opposite direction.

Beleth nodded as Ashe spoke.

"Professors and Beleth its time." Ashe said and Dimitri nodded as he turned to them.

"Alright. Let's stick to the plan Claude came up with and go hide at the secret passageway Lestia and Hubert found. We should be able to watch the entrance of the Holy Mausoleum that way." Dimitri spoke and the three nodded.

"If the enemy moves as predicted, we should be able to cut off their escape path and capture every last one of them." Edelgard smiled.

"Let's go!"

[-]

Silent the group was as they waited in the two secret passageways that were found. Half the group was on the right side, and the other group on the left. Seeing the Holy Mausoleum in person, the place was huge. Rows of different artifacts filled the place, tombs of old. She gave Ashe the mission to open the chest. Arisa led the group on the right, which was the twins, Lysithea, Ashe, Raphael and Bernadetta. Chris led the one on the left, which was Claude, Edelgard, Mercedes, Leonie, Yuri and Beleth. Foots were heard and two siblings nodded as they watched mages, matilda, archers, and...

"I knew it..." Arisa muttered as she saw the Death Knight come in on his armored horse.

"Lysithea and Mercedes..." she whispered to the girls, "see that Knight of Death?" The two nodded, "When you both get an opportunity, both of you use Dark Spikes on him. He is coming after me once we get near him." She smiled and the two females looked at each other confused but nodded.

"Why is he coming after you?" Dimitri whispered.

"Because I am his pleasure for fighting..." she hissed back and she missed seeing how wide Dimitri's eyes went.

"Ah, and one more thing..." Arisa turned to them, "If...you see me...suddenly...change to...something else, all of you run." She smiled sadly and many were confused but Chris.

The group turned back seeing the enemies scattered, and the Death Knight at the center. Arisa took out the Inexhaustible, handing it to Bernadetta, the weapon humming in the girl's hands. Everyone was looking at her with wide eyes, and before the girl asked, Arisa placed her index finger on her lips.

"This is a secret between us. Make sure to give it back to me when this is over. Alright Bernie?" She said and Bernadetta rapidly nodded.

She turned back to watch the mages and eyes narrowed at an unknown man watching the mage work on the coffin. The man had dark pale green skin, gray colored hair that was spiky, the clothing of a war master, his eyes were covered with bandages, but she could see scars running down his cheeks. The man carried a Bolt Axe in his left hand.

"How long till the spell on the coffin is undone?" The man spoke to the western church mage.

His voice was deep and rumbled with very little emotion.

"20 minutes Lord Chilon." The mage replies as hieroglyphics floated over the coffin.

The man known as Chilon grunted and looked out. Chris looked over to his sister and the two nodded. It was time.

"HALT!" Beleth yelled out as the groups ran out to the front of the entrance and suddenly the exits that the enemy had prepared shut closed with electric barriers.

"Boy, I'm glad runes exist in this world." Chris thought as he saw Mercedes was the one that activated it.

"Our guess was spot on. Looks like we got company." Claude winked as he spun his arrow, and everyone got into position.

"Those Central Church dastards have spotted us...everyone buy me some time while I open the seal on the casket!" The mage yelled and the enemies nodded.

"The hell? They are going after a casket full of bones? Yuck! What are they gonna do? Turn the body to a weapon or something?" Lestia grimaced as she held her axe tightly.

"Achoo!" Sothis sneezed and sent a glare to the princess.

"Let's finish them before they are done." Edelgard said back.

"Everyone, avoid the creepy knight of black armor." Claude said as the Death Knight locked eyes with Arisa.

"It is you...the woman who broke my mask...I have been waiting for this moment..." The Death Knight rumbles.

"What the hell did you do to piss him off?!" Chris said back to her.

"I kicked his arse, that's what." Arisa snapped back.

"Charge!" Lestia roared and the battle began.

The sounds of battle cries, swords, arrows, shields and such filled the place as the battle began. Lestia charged first at an Archer, doing a forward roll to dodge the arrows that came at her, then screamed her war cry as she swung her axe. The sound of it plunging into the neck of the Archer, killing him an instant. A mage was on the verge of coming from behind her and was struck down by Ashe.

The gray-haired boy was firing arrows at a precision speed, shooting two more that ignited with fire. A mage screamed in terror as the arrow that struck him lodge into his shoulder, causing his clothing to ignite. Three mages were on fire, screaming, their companions trying to help them. Chris saw there was anger in Ashe's eyes as the fight went on. In a way, this was good. Letting him let go of the pent-up anger he has. Beleth had a replica of Sword of Serios and slashed at the swordsman coldly, no emotion in his eyes. Raphael's iron gauntlets tore through the armor of the mages, thought the chest. Leonie rapidly strikes, her lance impaling another mage through the stomach. Mercedes and Lysithea fought off the mages, and Arisa used a time pulse already two times to save them.

"HA!" Chris's brass knuckles slammed the skulls of mage, making it an instant kill, while Claude supported him from behind.

"Ayyeee!" Bernadetta's screaming was throwing off a lot of enemies, allowing her to unleash multiple attacks with the relic.

Arisa smiled softly and looked over to Dimitri who was using the Brawling and boxing methods he was taught to fight. Edelgard's axe clashed with another, defending Dimitri's back. Her axe ripped through the legs of an axe user, then plunged it down at his skull. They were making their way closer to the Death Knight, but she was keeping her eyes on Chilion. Yuri held his sword like an assassin and jumped in the air, spinning as he cut four mages down.

"Behind!" Arisa yelled and Yuri screamed as a sword went through his waist.

Time pulse now used three times, the scene repeated once more but this time she casted Ward on him, causing the sword that was going to stab him, to bounce off. The purple haired man quickly spun and slashed at neck of the swordsman. The enemy falling in a bloody pool of blood. Chilon was silent as he simply watched the scene unfold till his interest peaked as he saw the forest haired woman and the Death Knight clash.

"WHAT THE HELL TEACH?!" Claude yelled and Chris turned to see his sister engaging the Death Knight.

Scythe and rapier clashed, creating sparks of red. She spun like a dancer to dodge the blade coming at her.

"Argh!" She gritted her teeth as the blade managed to get her shoulder, but she managed to plunge her rapier at his thigh.

"You...I am thrilled!" The Death Knight cackled as Arisa quickly did a backflip, twisting her body in the air, then threw two daggers at him. The Death Knight deflected them as he spun his scythe. Confusion filled him as she landed a few feet from him, a smirk on her face. Then...

"Oh my, how frightening! Won't you please go easy on me?"

The man turned around so fast, his eyes widened at the sight of Mercedes, looking at him scared but also determined.

"You! Was this...meeting..preordained?" He bellowed.

"IT WAS!" Multiple circles of purple surrounded him, unlike anything he had ever seen, he quickly turned to the owner of the voice.

Lysithea floated in the air as her hands glowed purple with dark magic, unaware that Mercedes was now doing the same thing. The two females gritted their teeth then...

"GATE OF DARK SPIKES (Babylon)!" Hundreds of black spikes came from the circles and attacked him.

"AAAAAAAHHH!" The Death Knights yelled in agony, he had his hand over his stomach, coughing blood.

"The moment you attacked our Professor, you signed your death warrant." Lysithea hissed.

"GET THE FUCK BACK HERE!" The girl screamed as he warped away, dropping a scythe, which Mercedes quickly picked up to use.

"Hahah! Even the Death Knight has his days." Chilon chuckled as he saw the twins of Faerghus cut down two more soldiers.

"Warp me!" Chris yelled and Lysithea warped him quickly besides his sister, who was about 10 feet from the casket.

"Glad you made it." He sensed the use of a fourth time pulse to save Raphael from axe.

"Sorry to be late. Ready?" He replied and she nodded.

The two charging at the mage and Chilon. The Agarthan man smirked as he held his bolt axe and walked down the steps.

"You come dare challenge me?! Chilon the Black Smith of Shambhala?! Come at me if you dare!" The man boomed.

"Gladly!" Chris came at him as he sent a quick glance to Arisa, who went at the mage.

Fist collided with fist, at inhumane forces. It was unlike anything anyone had ever seen.

"Come on..." Edelgard thought as the mage fired a spell at Arisa, who dodged, then spun.

"Come at me!" Arisa yelled as she stabbed his chest.

"You're too late! The seal will be undone any minute now!" The mage yelled back.

Chris quickly crouched down and did a hook at the man, then a kick at him. Chilon grunted, he had never once encountered such battle combat before and the fact he was getting overwhelmed, was exciting.

"GHHAAA!" The mage screamed as Arisa plunged her sword at his waist, droplets of blood on her face.

He stepped back, gritting his teeth, then laughing.

"It's no use! The seal is broken. You-WHAT?! THE SWORD IS BROKEN?!" The mage yelled as he ran to the casket and pulled out the Sword of the Creator.

The top part was broken and only the handle remained. Now seeing it in person, Sothis was screaming in horror. Arisa unsheathed her Rapier of the Creator and charged at them, her war cry ringing out. Chilon froze hearing the sword was broken and stopped, barely having time to see the said sword broken.

"WHO DARE DESTROY MY CREATION?!" He roared as the mage used the sword to defend himself, the sword knocked put his hand by Arisa.

The sword flew in the air and was quickly caught by her.

Bubump!

She used the two swords to negate the fire spell, then the two began pulsing in her hand.

"Aarrghhhhh...!" Power began to flow through her veins as the two swords flared in gold, the two halves glowing in a burning power. Voices, screams, images flowed through Arisa's eyes. An image of Rhea wailing loudly as she held the sword in her arms, surrounded by the relics. Each relic was once a brother or sister. Flayn's face enraged as she cut the head off a woman. Seteth crying as he held the body of his wife in his arms. Cirina screaming curses to a man. Nemesis being stabbed to death by Rhea. More and more, the voices grew. The voices she was once hearing, she realized they were prayers to the goddess. Everything around her burned as more voices and images entered her.

"It burns!" Arisa gritted her teeth as she forcefully crouched midway.

"The two halves have been apart for two long. You must unite them, or it will be two much for you!" Sothis yells and the power surging caused a temporary outline to manifest.

Everyone's eyes widened as they saw the outside of a female floating next to Arisa, hugging her tightly.

"How?!" Arisa yelled as her veins glowed, her heartbeat going rapid.

"MAKE IT TAKE THE SHAPE YOU DESIRE!" Sothis yelled and Arisa roared as she slammed the two swords together.

A blinding light took over the place. Many covered their eyes and Chris took this opportunity to undo the deal on his sword.

"ARGH!" Chilon yelled in agony as the light demolished, his eyes widening at the sight of the man before him.

"You...you...that can not be!" He yelled as he took multiple steps back, his hand over his chest.

"Gasp...gasp...gasp...GRRRRRRRRR!" Arisa snarled as the two halves of the Sword of the Creator merged once more, taking the shape she desired.

A full complete, rapier version of the Sword of the Creator was now in her hands as the mage panicked, throwing multiple fire spells at her.

"No...how...how can there be two?!" Chilon yelled as Chris walked towards him with his Sword of the Creator.

Edelgard and many were frozen solid as they watched the scene. The mage casted a ward spell to protect himself as Arisa walked rapidly towards.

"THIS IS FOR HURTING MY FAMILY!" She roared as the magic circle behind her back activated, the bone wings came out, hissing at the mage, stabbing repeatedly at the ward shield.

"That girl...the Wings of Sothis?! How?!" Chiion yelled as he barely dodged the sword attack from Chris, who's eye glowed green.

"BEGONE!" The siblings yelled loudly and brought down their swords.

The barrier was destroyed, the cut down with no mercy whatsoever, and Chilon's head cut off. Silence befell the place and Chris began screaming profanities when Chilon's head and body was warped away.

"Gasp! Gasp! Gasp!" Arisa fell to her knees, panting rapidly, the sword clattered next to her.

"Arisa!" Chris quickly ran to her and back away when the bone wings hissed at him.

"I am not an enemy." He said firmly as the bone wings hissed once more and let him pass.

"Breath! Breath!" He quickly knelt next to her as she began coughing violently.

"HISSSSSS!" The wings hissed as the students approached and quickly stepped back.

"DO NOT STRIKE!" Arisa yelled out and the wings stopped as many looked at two siblings with wide eyes.

The bones glowed like the two swords and hissed as they retracted back to the magic circle on her back, disappearing in a shower of gold dust.

"Arisa...Chris...those swords...how...there should only be one..." Beleth muttered.

The Professor was in a violent coughing fit, Lysithea and Mercedes quickly ran to her.

"Is the intruder here?! Oh...Looks like-! WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED HERE?!"

Catherine's yell was heard at the other side of the building. Her eyes wide as they landed on the two siblings, especially the weapons they held.

"You! Round up any stragglers!" She ordered a female knight, "And you two! Arrest those two siblings!" Cathrine orders and everyone looks at her shocked.

"What?! No!" Edelgard quickly stood in front of them along with the others.

"Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr..." Arisa snarled loudly, her eyes flickering between mint green and forest, she hugged herself tighter to prevent her current urge to kill, to take over.

"I'm sorry but it must be done." Cathrine said as the knights came closer.

"It's okay." Chris whispered softly as his sister looked up to him, "Calm down...they are our allies...shhhhh...Calm down..." he said as Arisa was growling.

Dimitri froze. His heart bested rapidly as memories of that tragic day came back to light as he saw she was turning to that feral state. He didn't want to see her suffer.

"Not again! Not again!" He thought and without thinking, hugged her from behind tightly, placing his left hand over her eyes, covering them.

His other hand around her waist, the grip tight.

"AAARRRGHHH!" Arisa snarled loudly, and the sword was quickly ripped out of her hand by Chris.

"Shhhh...calm...down...no one will hurt you...calm...down...shh...

In...time flows...." he heard her whimper as he sung softly in her ear, something wet on his hand, most likely tears, "See the glow...of flames ever glowing bright...." he sung.

Many watched in silence as her breathing began to calm down, her snarls becoming mournful sobs. Dimitri did not let go as his body began to relax against him.

"On the swift...rivers drift...broken.." her body completely slumped against him, she was panting for air as he removed his hand from her eyes.

She was crying as she looked around, many looking at her worried.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry,I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry..." she kept muttering repeatedly.

A few more minutes passed, and she was helped up, but the two siblings were still arrested. Arisa and Chria gave the class a weak smile as the two were taken away and Catherine shivered, at the cold glares she was getting.

- Cathedral-

At the cathedral, the stragglers were caught and were before Lady Rhea, Shamir, Seteth, and Alexandra, who was the closest with her group. The air was tense and cold, the blue haired woman waiting to make her move. The four lords watched in silence.

"As all of you have committed a breach of faith, the Archbishop will now pass judgment." Seteth spoke coldly.

"Inciting a Kingdom Noble to rebel. Unlawful entry. The attempt assassination of the archbishop. An attack on the Holy Mausoleum. It is unnecessary to go on, followers of the Western Church." Shamir spoke coldly as those of the Western Church glared.

"What?! We have nothing to do with the Western Church!" One man spat.

"You have already been identified. Please spare us your second-rate theater." Seteth shook his head.

"Dishonoring a holy ceremony is worthy of death for the member of the church. Y-" Rhea was interrupted.

"One moment." Alexandra spoke suddenly as she walked in front of Lady Rhea, her right arm stretched.

"You dare interrupt me Professor Alexandra?" Rhea said coldly and the girl smiled.

"I would like to interrogate these men for information if you will." She smiled.

"What?! You dare say such things?!" Seteth said while Shamir looked at her with a raised eyebrow at her.

"These men are well past the hope of redemption. They are to offer their lives for atonement for the crimes they have committed. You dare defend them?" Rhea spoke coldly as Alexandra suddenly did the smile she did to Tomas.

The two Nabateans froze as they recognized it as the girl spoke.

"And you bring the guillotine on them without hearing their reason? Without letting them go through a trail? Make them work for their defense? I find the penalty of death to be far...more barbaric. I am asking for permission for me to interrogate them for information." Alexandra defended back.

Shamir had to quickly cover her mouth to hide her smirk at the furious face Rhea made. The girl just called the Archbishop's methods barbaric. Oh, she knew exactly what was about to go down. After all, before Dadga was destroyed, they had a system of innocent until proven guilty. This girl...

"Please!" One man quickly went to his knees, bowing his head, "This isn't what we were told would happen! We were deceived! I beg of you! Let us speak!" The man wept.

"How dare you...?" Rhea growled as Alexandra chuckled.

"I am merely going with facts then faith. First off, like these men said, I wish to hear what they have to say. And I also have my own personal reason. I won't lie on that. I shall repeat it once again, I will interrogate them. And, if the offense is truly of death, we shall see." She defended.

"Alright then." Shamir spoke suddenly, making the two turn to her surprise, "I'll help you. I just hope your method isn't torture." She smirked at the terrified face of the girl.

"Hell no! I never go that route!" Alexandra yelled.

"Lady Rhea..." Seteth said and the woman gritted her teeth.

"Very well then. I will allow it." Rhea said coldly, "Shamir, have your men take those heretics to the dungeons. Alexandra, I hope you will not regret this. A trail will be held in one week." Dismissed." And Rhea turned to leave, the aura of pure anger was all over her as Seteth went after her.

Shamir's knights took the men away to the dungeons, the woman and Alexandra following them. It was only a quick glance, but the two females nodded to each other. Once gone, the four Lords were silent as they watched them leave. For Edelgard, this was the first time she had witnessed such hostile behavior towards Alexandra. Not to mention someone stood up against Rhea. For now...her mind traveled to the Professor and her brother.

[-]

"There you have it...it seems that the assassination attempt and the attack on the Holy Mausoleum were all the work if the Western Church...at least...that's what it looks like..." Dimitri muttered as all three houses and Manuela, Hanneman, Beleth and Amir were present in the auditorium.

"As for...that Death Knight..." Lestia gulped, "Unfortunately his whereabouts are yet unknown but it'll be a long time when we see him. Those Dark Spikes Mercedes and Lysithea used were super effective. I'm impressed." Lestia said.

"It doesn't make sense. If it's not the Western Church, then who?" Sadi said.

"The Church of Serios clearly isn't unified as it would hope to appear." Hubert chuckled.

"Why would the Western Church want to attack Lady Rhea? Actually...Dimitri, you said that's what it looks like? Is it possible, some other group is involved?" Hilda says and Hanneman speaks.

"You saying that...it reminded me of a rumor." He said and everyone looked at him to speak, "Some say there is a hidden fifth party involved in causing disturbances around Fodlan. One, would be that they have tricked and deceived to do their bidding. Which, some say also connects to the urban legend of Pittacus the Doll Collector." And everyone minus Hubert from the Black Eagles House shivered at the mention of that legend.

"Anyhow, to the shock of no one, I hear the knights have been dispatched to subdue the leaders of the Western Church. As for the ones that were caught today, Alexandra...May have gotten on Lady Rhea's...Bad side." Claude said.

"What happened?" Sylvain said.

"Originally," Beleth spoke, "Those men were supposed to be executed but Alexandra called my mother's methods of execution without hearing or a trail...barbaric. To her face..." he trailed off.

"WHAT?!" Everyone yelled except the Lords and Beleth.

"Did she really just do that to Lady Rhea's face?! Is she insane?!" Linhardt yelled.

"Hey!" Amir yelled out, making them shut up, "Alexandra has always been the type to do things for a reason." She defended.

"Then, those guys didn't get the axe?! Man! I can't believe she just spared them something brutal. I guess that's a good thing?" Raphael shook his head.

"Lady Rhea can be rather intimidating at times. In fact, she can be downright terrifying." Lysithea shivered.

"The fact that...Alexandra stopped the execution...despite them going against the Teachings of Serios...it's..Quite unforgivable. '' Mercedes said.

"Do you agree with the Archbishop's methods?" Dorothea asked.

"How foolish." Amir's tone cut like a knife at her words.

"Pardon?" Mercedes glared.

"You heard me." She walked up to the front of the group and looked at them one by one.

"If I had to say, Fodlan's methods of justice are nothing but cowardly methods." She said bitterly.

"I beg your pardon?!" Hilda said angrily.

"You heard me! How is it called Justice when all the Archbishop does is bring execution to those she sees as sinners?! Almyra, Sreng, Duscur, Albina, Hyras, even Dadga and Brigid have better justice systems than here! Innocent until proven guilty! A hearing and trial before the fate of the one is decided! Evidence brought together to build a case! Those who execute without hearing first are cowards! Some even use it as a form to impact fear into the lives of citizens! Others use it as a method like the witch trials that happened 300 years ago! Innocent men and women executed because they were accused of dark mage craft when it was heretic in the past! People blamed their misfortune on them and celebrated their execution! Families accusing one another of getting rid of others they hated simply out of greed! Innocent people in prisons executed and then years later are proven that they are not guilty! If such a form is used, then you all should be ashamed! How many innocent people died at the hands of cowards who sat back and watched?! Eh!? I bring this up because I know exactly what it is like to see someone that was framed, die!" Amir sneered as everyone was silent at her words.

"Amir..." Beleth spoke softly to her and slapped his hand away.

"Do not touch me! I am sick and tired of seeing this damn unfair system here! How many hate crimes have been done and the church turned their back on the case?! How many people of the other countries of Fodlan have been arrested just because they are different? How many remained silent and never stood up for what is right?! Not saying anything is the same as you doing it! COWARDS!" Amir roared and stormed away, furiously.

The silence was suffocation, everyone could only look down to the ground. She literally just said only a part of what was wrong with Fodlan.

"Is...the Professor...okay...?" Forrest spoke softly.

"Don't...even...get us...started on that..." Dimitri muttered.

It was decided that day that everyone go their separate ways and rest.

- 2 Days Later: Unknown Location -

"The Archbishop lives..." Arundel said bitterly to the person dressed in crimson armor.

Far away where no one could find them, the two spoke.

"Not that I ever placed my faith on those swine of the Western Church." He shook his head as the armor one raised their hand.

"I have news. And...seems there will be a complete change in plans. It is both good and bad." They said.

"Oh? This is rare. Speak." Arundel said.

"The remains of Serios were not in the tomb. However, something else was. The Sword of the Creator." They said.

"Ah, the weapon wielded by that thief, The King of Liberation." Arundel muttered.

"Thief? Hm. Anyhow...we have a bigger problem." They said.

"And that would be?" He raised an eyebrow.

"There are two of them." The Flame Emperor said coldly.

"What?!" Arundel's eyes went wide.

"You heard me." They hissed, "There are two Swords of the Creator. One changed shape completely when it fell into the hands of the Professor while the other one had its original shape. It was wielded by her brother. One sword had a Crest stone while the other one didn't. Chilon was heavily wounded by the one that was wielded by the Professor's brother. His name is Christian, but I have found no record of him other than he is a mercenary. Not only that...A relic I have never seen before was wielded by the Professor. It was like it had a mind of its own. The fact that both siblings awakened the sword's true power...One sword without the Crest Stone, while the other did have it. The swords glowed red. The two have Crest that are compatible. There is no mistaking it." The Flame Emperor said.

"Mind...of its own. Describe it." Arundel muttered.

"Wings but they were bones only." They answered back.

"That cannot be! That relic was said to have been lost 1,000 years ago!" Arundel yelled.

"Oh? So, you know it?" They glared.

"They are the Legendary Relic, the Wings of Sothis, said to be the very wings of the goddess herself. To think...it has been found. Anacharsis will be most pleased to hear of this. But also...absurd. Using a relic without its Crest stone should be impossible. The King of Liberation's bloodline should not even...Hmm. " Arundel muttered.

"The two must be allowed to keep it, for now. I do not have enough information on either of them, much less the Duscur woman and the potential vessel of Cirina. As for your request, I assent. The Death Knight is yours to command. Use him well." The Flame Emperor said.

"Good. I believe I will enjoy this a great deal..." Arundel smiled and warped away.

Silence was all there was, the Flame Emperor removed their mask. Edelgard let go a frustrated breath as she gritted her teeth at the memory of what happened at the Holy Mausoleum.

"Lady Edelgard." Hubert was suddenly next to her, a worried look on his face.

"Argh! This is frustrating! Our plans are a complete mess now!" The girl roared furiously, "Never once did I expect there to be two Swords of the Creator! The fact that it broke and suddenly took a different shape when the Professor held it?! Now her brother also has one and it has the crest stone?! First this, then Amir's completely saying what was wrong with Fodlan, and one by one we are seeing the Agarthans...The presence of Those Who Slither into Dark is known! Everything is changing!" She yelled out her frustrations.

"Lady Edelgard...perhaps this is a sign that something good may come our way. But we must also be aware of that group called Sirius. They have been fighting those snakes for years. For now, let us form a new plan." Hubert suggested as the girl let go of a sigh.

"Sigh...you're right...and I'm sorry you had to witness me in my moment of weakness. But...something good did come of the event." Edelgard smiled, "That was the first time I have ever witnessed someone tell Rhea her methods are unfair. I enjoyed it; I admit. Hubert, I do believe that Alexandra would make a worthy ally." Edelgard turned back to him.

"I do agree with you Lady Edelgard. But we must be wary of her. I have noticed her power seems unstable lately." Hubert replies as she takes off the bulky armor and he warps it away.

"What? Unstable?" Edelgard's worried tone made her remember the condition the Professor was in at the Holy Mausoleum.

"Lestia has been speaking to her and seems her power is growing. If I had to put it this way, her, and the Professor...are becoming walking time bombs. They do not have much time left." He explains and a wave of anguish falls on the Adrestian princess.

"No...no...no...no...not again...I don't want to see that happen to them...

I don't want what happened to my siblings to happen to them..." Edelgard gritted her teeth, her hands shaking.

"Lady...Edelgard..." Hubert looked at her worried.

"We need to find a way to free them of those beasts."

[-]

2 days of recovery/arrest and Arisa and Chris stood before a shell-shocked Rhea and Seteth. The two looked with eyes at the siblings as they held the sword in their hands.

"H-How?! How can this be?! The Sword of the Creator changed its shape! One with a Crest stone and one without! What is the meaning of this?!" Seteth said furiously to the two siblings.

And like usual, Claude, Leastia and Sadi had wonderful hidden seats watching. It was obvious to the three that the siblings were very uncomfortable and Seteth looked ready to wring their necks.

"We do not know." Arisa answered.

"What do you mean you do not know?! That...sword is a sacred artifact of Saint Serios!" Seteth boomed.

"Like I said, I don't know!" Arisa said back, "The sword changed shapes the minute I caught it! The only desire I had was to defend my students! Is that wrong?! If you were in my position, you would have done the same thing to protect your family!"Arisa roared back.

"Arisa calm down!" Chris turned to her and she glared.

"NO I WILL NOT SHUT UP!" Never had anyone seen her angry.

"I'M SICK AND TIRED OF BEING PUT ON A FUCKEN PEDESTAL OF EXPLANATIONS! I AM ONLY HUMAN! HUMAN! I AM NO GOD AND I NEVER WILL BE! MY FRIENDS, FAMILY AND STUDENTS COME FIRST! IF SETETH WAS PUT IN THE SAME POSITION AS ME OR YOU, HE WOULD HAVE DONE THE SAME TO PROTECT THOSE HE CARE ABOUT! ANYONE WOULD!" She roared back and the magic circle on her back appeared again.

"Whoa whoa!" Chris quickly stood in front of Lady Rhea and Seteth as the wings came out from her back, hissing at them.

"Those...it can't be...!" Rhea thought as Arisa stood there furiously, the wings hissing at them.

"I'M TRIED, I'M TRIED, I'M TRIED!" Arisa crouched down as she covered her ears, screaming out the emotions she had bottles up from the other night.

"I'm just so tired..." She wept as the wings wrapped over her, as if protecting her.

Chris placed his sword down as he slowly made his way towards her, the wings gently wrapped around his wrist and pulled him towards slowly.

"Ulp...uuhhhh...sniff...ugh..." she sobbed.

Her method of unleashing her emotions was becoming unhealthy and it was terrifying. He felt like he was seeing the version of her from the past. He questioned how much she was bottling up inside all those years before she met him again? How long did she keep smiling and pretending nothing was wrong?

"Arisa...look at him." The girl slowly looked up to him and smiled at her.

Now it was his turn to form his role as the older brother. The role she once had as the older sister. It was not his turn to be there for her like how she was there for him.

"I know you're tired. I am too. But look around you. We got to keep moving forward. I know you can do it. Come on? Where's the crazy sailor mouth proud Mexican American girl I know? The one that kicks ass?" He chuckled as he saw the wings disappear completely once more.

Sothis was hugging the girl tightly as Arisa sniffed and wiped her tears, crying again.

"I'm sorry for being such a self-centered bitch...uhhh..." she cried.

"Self-centered? Maybe? A bitch? Maybe? Okay maybe not that one." Chris chuckled as she smiled weakly to him.

"Dad is going to kill me.." she chuckled as he did.

"Maybe." He smiled back as he helped her up.

Seteth felt guilt seeing how much the role of the Professor was taking on her. She was and is a child. Such a burden of battle should not be on her shoulders. This reminded me of how Noa just completely broke down many years ago. For Rhea, hope bloomed in her chest when she saw the wings of her mother emerged from the girl. So close, so close.

"Seems I don't have to interfere. The girl is already merging well. Still, just little push and all will fall into place." Rhea smiled at the thought.

"What is wrong with you?"

The voice of reason spoke louder in her mind this time.

"Do not feel shame? Do you not feel guilty? Do you not feel empathy for what you just witnessed?! This girl is breaking! Do you not see she is in a way?! How we used to be in the past?!" The voice yelled.

"I am...sorry you had to witness that." Arisa muttered as she walked up with her brother and Seteth shook his head.

"It is alright. The burden has taken a toll on you. Professor, if you ever wish to speak, you may come see me. And...you are right." He smiled sadly to them, "If I was in your position...I would have done the same thing." He nodded.

"Now then," Rhea spoke, "I cannot thank you for defeating those invaders in the Holy Mausoleum and protecting the Sword of the Creator. While an am greatly surprised to see that the sword split into two, it must be the will of the goddess." Rhea smiled warmly.

"Oh, so you are dismissing my friend's depression?! Have you no shame Serios?! Arghh!" Sothis yelled as she hugged Arisa.

"Those swords are one of the Heroes' Relics, and the most precious artifact in the church's possession. They are also a weapon of terrifying power. For now, I will entrust both of you with the swords. Please use them wisely." Rhea said.

"Lady Rhea, wait!" Seteth quickly turned to her, "Do you truly mean to give the Sword of the Creator to the children?! Especially when one is in an unstable condition at this moment?! What more the sword the Professor wields took on a different shape! The shape of a rapier! Surely it is not the sort of thing one hands over so readily, even to someone who has the ability to wield it! If someone like Nemesis were to appear again, all of Fodlan would be consumed by war!" Seteth spoke angrily.

"Oh, so now you stand up against her?! Why didn't you do this sooner Cichol?! Ugh!" Sothis banged her head on a wall.

"That's a name...we haven't heard for a long time. Better keep our mouths shut about that fight because that son of bitch is coming..." Chris thought and just for amusement, Arisa spoke.

"Nemesis? I heard Professor Hanneman mention him a few times. Who is he?" Arisa asked like an idiot.

"This is amusing to you, isn't it?" Sothis snickered.

"Nemesis, the King of Liberation. He is an ancient king of mankind who was defeated by Serios over a thousand years ago. When Fodlan was attacked by wicked gods (Siblings and Sothis: That's a lie.), it is said the goddess gifted Nemesis with the Sword of the Creator. Nemesis used that sword to defeat the wicked gods, saving all of Fodlan. Henceforth, he was dubbed the King of Liberation." Bitterly he spoke as he continued.

"However, his power began to corrupt him until he, himself, turned to the darkness. Saint Serios along with the 5 Saints, were forced to destroy him." He sighs and turns to Rhea, "Lady Rhea, I beg you to reconsider. Given a little more time, we could evaluate more accurately the siblings' abilities. Especially for the Professor, who I worry most for her health and mentality. I speak not only as your advisor but as someone of family." Seteth expressed his worry for the two siblings.

"No." Rhea shook her head, "I have faith, Seteth. Faith that our friends here will not allow themselves to be corrupted by wickedness. Since the death of Nemesis, none have been able to wield the Sword of the Creator. Now, after all those long years being sealed away, it has returned and had found two new masters." She smiled warmly.

What a fool you are...You feel no shame to turn these children to vessels of Sothis? Ha! How arrogant you have become. If one fails, your eyes will turn to the next one. You are just like THEM!

"Silence." Rhea mentally tells the voice of her consciousness as Seteth spoke.

"I...understand. As you wish...Lady Rhea." Seteth closed his eyes in defeat and turned back to the two, crossing his arms, "There you have it you two. See that you do not betray the trust the Archbishop has seen fit to bestow upon you two." Seteth spoke with an edge in his voice, his way of warning them.

He didn't like how automatically the two siblings suddenly put their hands over their neck, as if he was about to bring the axe on them immediately.

"Seteth, you are scaring them." Rhea sighs as she gives him a dry look.

"I apologize. We shall be going now. The two of you, the three houses and professors have the rest of the Blue Sea moon and first two weeks of the Verdant moon off. Take this opportunity to get some rest and help any students that need help with their work. That is all. Have a good day." And with that the two left.

[-]

"The Sword of the Creator. The King of Liberation. Each tale is more confusing than the last!" Sothis huffed as she was in her adult form, floating around them, arms crossed.

"And I really can't read my own daughter at all...hmmm...The two swords are precious so I was expecting her to blow off on you both. Especially Cichol. He looked ready to bring the axe on both of you. Why would she be so keen to give the swords to you both? I am sure they have many questions regarding the two swords." Sothis sighs as she follows them, the three walking down the hallway.

"I honestly thought the same." Chris mentally answered because he and Arisa knew Claude must be following them, plus he watched the whole thing that went down.

"It is strange." Arisa thought back, "I need a drink. I can't believe I exploded like that in front of them. Worse since I know Claude witnessed the whole thing!" Arisa groans loudly, pulling her own hair.

"I feel we have been entangled in a mystery...And there are a few more things that have been plaguing me. The Sword of the Creator...now I understand why it felt so distinct from other relics we have seen. Different from the one the prince of Blaiddyd wields...different from Amir's...different from Alexandra's..and also the woman's Cathrine. The Sword of the Creator is different from all of their relics in one keyway." Sothis frowned as the two stopped and looked up to her.

"Arisa's version has no Crest stone. And we know it is in your heart." She pointed to the girl's chest, "And Chris, your version has the Crest stone. From a version of myself and Byleth that fell in a different timeline. The Sword of Creator, like me, is the mother of the relics. Grr..." she waved her feet frantically like a child, "I despise not knowing what is going on when I know you two do!" She pointed her fingers at them.

"We're sorry." Two siblings muttered.

"Sigh...don't be." She hugged them both, "While it does frighten me, I am placing my trust in both you. I must after all." She smiled warmly, "Whatever comes to pass...both of you...Amir...Alexandra... please swear you all will cut a path that is your own. Defy fate. Do not let the strings of time control you." Sothis muttered and the two nodded.

All continued ahead, heading back to the others. Once the coast was clear, Claude came out, unable to believe what he witnessed.

"The Sword of the Creator...Skadi-Ondurgud...Mjolnir...All three...Pulled right from the legends. I can't believe it..." he chuckled as he placed his hand on his head, a bit of a dark look in his eyes, "I finally found them, and yet they ended up...in the hands of...them.. Alex...Amir...Arisa...and Christian...Just who truly are they? Could I even use the relics anyway? Damn it. There's no telling what's to come..." he muttered.

"I figured as much." He quickly turned around to see Lestia walking towards him and stopped right next to him.

Her eyes looking down the hallway.

"Glad to know I wasn't the only one that saw the whole thing." She muttered.

"Oh, so you know about th-oh what the hell. Of course, you knew. I remember catching you sneaking around. Anyhow, what are your thoughts on what we saw?" She asked as he looked around.

"Not here." He whispered and the two quickly went to the room where all the armor was.

They closed the door and spoke.

"Honestly, with everything that is going on, I'm worried for Teach. And not just her, all of us. At some point, Arisa is going to snap. I know it. And when does, she will unleash everything she has been holding back. I really...don't want to see her break." He said and Lestia snickered.

"What is so funny?" He said and Lestia smirked at him.

"Oh, so now you actually care about them? I thought you wanted to use them only for your ambitions! After all, you're just waiting for the perfect opportunity to use them." Lestia smirked.

"I have always cared." Claude snarled at her, "They were the first people to actually care about me. They stood up for me when no one would." He snapped back.

"So, you say." Lestia twirled a string of her hair, "A smile that does not reach the eyes is one hollow. Alexandra always says those words to us during her seminars." She purposely brought her up.

"Alex has nothing to do with this." Claude said back.

"Oh, she has everything to do with this as well as Amir. I have never gotten out of my head the way Amir spoke the brutal truth of Fodlan. She is right, we're all cowards in a way. And I made an oath to myself 15 years ago. The day I awakened my Crest. I swore I would stand by my brother's side and help change this rotten world. And that's a promise I will do. See you late Claude. Hopefully, your ambitions don't get the one you love killed." She huffed and left out the door.

- Later at Night -

Claude could not sleep at all! Angry he was with the words Lestia spat at him. At what cost? Those words were once said to him by Edward, who he told his dream of. The Holy magus said that that was a pretty ambiguous dream, but he believed it was possible. But it would take time and years. Even if it would take a long time, Edward told him it was possible. The Reigan Heir was silent as he walked through the gardens of the Monastery in the night. The stars weren't as bright like the ones in Almyra but it was something. Soft footsteps were heard as he quickly hid behind a bush.

"Alexandra?" He thought as he saw her in her n-!

"No...No! Not today Satan!" Claude quickly averted his eyes from the blue haired female.

She was dressed in a sleeveless shirt, and shorts that stopped halfway of her thighs. You could see thin scars across her arms and leg, and her chest. Literally the incarceration of sin! The clothing allowed her curves to show and...her chest which were just a tad smaller than Ari-!

"No, no! Do not think that way! Whoa! My Almyran tastes are showing! Calm down..." Claude took a deep breath and made his face turn to stone as he looked back to her.

"Haaaaaa..." Alexandra breathes a puff of warm air to her hands and continues to walk, unaware that Claude was following behind her.

She made her way to the stables quickly.

"Chirp..." Falco chirps at the sight of his master but cocked his head in confusion as she made her way to Zarha.

"Shh.." Alexandra shushed her wyvern and the albino one looked at her confused as she began to get a saddle and put in on her.

"Zarha, please forgive me but I need you to fly me to the Alliance. I know you don't let anyone, but Claude get on but please! It's important. I promise it won't take long. I take Falco if I could, but he'll attract too much attention. Please." Alexandra pleaded as the albino stared at her for a moment and motioned her to get on.

"Thank you Zarha! I swear I'll make it up to you!" Alexandra bowed repeatedly to her as she grabbed her cloak, throwing it on herself quickly.

She strapped the saddle on and right when she was about to climb on.

"No, you don't." Alexandra quickly whirled around with her dagger and her wrist was caught.

Claude's eyes seem to shine with the mischievous grin he had as he looked at her.

"Going somewhere Alex? And the fact that Zarha let go on? Care to explain?"

The stars! Rend dark paths to distant wars.

The moon! Turn it on its head. Reality's a lie.

The sun! Worship the mercy that outshines sick truths.

Judgement! Sound the trumpets to the empire's end.

The world! Ah, how far away the ideal world!

Chapter 46: Goddess's Song: Part 3: Awakening: End

[-]

And that concludes the Third Arc of this story! We'll be taking a two chapter break from the main story before we hit DLC. And yes, prepare some fluff and maybe a few spicy things soon. When the two chapters are done, we shall start Arc 4 of the story!

A bit of a surprise huh? Arisa snapping at Rhea and Seteth as well as the appearance of the next enemy leader. Lejare has yet to show his roll but it will come soon. I'm going to try and draw out his crest design when I get the chance. And yes, his crest is also an Arcana card, but I will not say which one. Hope you all enjoyed this arc!

The voice within Rhea is growing more as time passes and so will the guilt. And just as expected, her and Seteth were not happy about there now being two swords of the Creator. So yeah, many questions and two dragons pissed.

Arisa's current goal is to prevent Jeralt's death.

Next two chapters:

Two new Paralogues.

Bye everyone!

Also, you can find this story Archive on our own.