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)

85. Chapter 84:1182:Part 1:Embers Spark

Chapter 84: Embers Spark: Part 1: The First Spark

[—]

A week passed since the attack on the Daphnel border camp. Claude and The Golden Deer worked together to give the fallen soldiers proper burials and Judith took on the role of writing to their families. Claude insisted he do it but the woman was stubborn and said it was her responsibility as the House Leader of Daphnel since they were her soldiers and responsibility. During that same time, Ignatz, Raphael, Boey, and Silque were assigned to search the woods, hoping to at least find their friends. If they were dead, they would send their bodies to their loved ones. But the only one they found was Sir Kay, his body somehow spared by the forest fire. Near the cliff, Marianne and Lorenz found that part of the cliff had crumbled but what made their hearts sink was finding a single gold winged earring.

Claude recognized it. It belonged to Dedue. The darkest of thoughts ran through his mind but he had to take several deep breaths to calm himself, just like how Arisa taught him. He just hoped that if Dedue did survive the fall, he made it to someplace safe. But there were no traces of Dimitri, Sadi, and Lestia. It was the number one thing racing in his mind. Where did they go? Were they injured again? Did their wounds reopen? What happened? Who attacked the camp? After his mind cleared up, he told The Golden Deer, Edward, and Judith what he saw.

"It's obvious why that...Agarthan General took her body! To her, it was a prize!" Judith said furiously before storming back to the camp.

Claude had let go of a sigh as he looked at Sara's bloody tome. Immediately he dispatched his hawk, Lon'qu, to Aubin Territory to deliver his letter to inform Zander of what had transpired. Two days later he got an immediate reply and Glenn and Lysithea had come to pick up the relics and tome. But most of all, the two informed him of what happened in the Kingdom. All Claude and The Deer knew that there was a coup.

It wasn't a coup.

It was a full-out invasion. Cornelia launched a full-scale invasion of the city of Fhirdiad. They survived getting away but after a month of the invasion, the witch set her sights on annihilating Emily and her territories. Emily knew she wouldn't win and too many would lose their lives so...she and her siblings cast a barrier around Zoltra and Kalsana territory. They had no contact with her anymore now that no one could even enter the territory that was all protected and invaded in giant black vines with thorns. Claude wanted to snort when he heard the description of the spell. It was as if Emily had chosen to become the Evil Fairy from the story Sleeping Beauty, who cast a curse on Aura to put her into a deep sleep and surrounded the entire kingdom with thorns.

That's why Claude was always been wary of Emily. Because the woman knew things and would not speak of them. Now one of his biggest things to find out was, what was an Outworlder? Who was The Lord of Ice and Snow? And why did Anacharis say that it was a twisted joke of faith that a child of his ancestors and one descended from Vernata, married? Anacharis, just even thinking about the woman brought shivers to his spine. He immediately had run to the nearest washroom to cleanse the blood on his face. Her touch felt disgusting, cold, something he never wanted in his life to feel again.

So many questions and so little time. He made his way to his office after a horrendous meeting with The Roundtable. Count Gloucester was as pompous as usual but Claude could see the stress was getting to the old man. His number one goal had always been to ensure the safety and best interest of the common folk. He may look like a senile bitter man but Judith knew how much he had done for The Alliance. In he went into his office, already he knew his sister was waiting for him and went in. The office wasn't his. It was his grandfather's but since he was the scion and leader, he had been using it. In he went into the office. The was a desk made of pine wood, littered with open books, papers, quilts, and that one small ink bottle that was spilled. On the far side of the room was a couch and next to the window was a table with a small fire cauldron used for making potions, multiple glass jars filled with herbs, and other science equipment used to make potions and poisons. A shelf behind the desk was filled with books, a few trinkets as well as more jars and small boxes filled with different herbs and other materials. On the wall was displayed Failnaught, The Heroes' Relic.

"So, now that we are alone, we can talk," Claude said as he locked up the door to his office and turned to see his sister sitting down but the man flinched seeing her glassily, foggy, yet slightly glowing green eyes.

The way she sat, still, silent, it had been 10 years since he had seen her in such a state. It meant she was having a vision, but as much as Claude would like to know what she is seeing, he can't. She can't speak of such things because of the consequences that would come. He has witnessed it and it was something he never wanted to experience again. Inami blinked and took deep breaths to calm her racing heart. But it was the color of her face that made Claude worried and the way she glanced at him before looking away.

"Do you need a minute?" He said and she nodded, resting her right elbow on the arm of the chair, her hand on her forehead as she was trying to calm herself.

Minutes of silence passed before it was broken with her first words.

"I suggest you research more about your ancestors and...search up information on the one called Vernata." She sighed and Claude noticed she looked wary of him suddenly.

Just what did she see?

"I will." Claude said and went to sit at his chair, "So, about Sandana." He started and the woman smiled softly.

"As you know, I started an orphanage where I would take in children who were abandoned, orphaned, sought asylum, and lost their homes. I chose to hide my identity that I was a princess so that the people would not feel intimidated. And the one that would bring children was a woman named Narsin. Told me that they were all children she rescued ones that had been enslaved by House Goneril. That she had traveled across the border to return them and the adults to their homes. And to find the parents of the children. The youngest was a little boy no older than ten with his five-month-old brother." She said with a sad expression as it suddenly clicked to Claude.

"Asif and Bilal. Your adopted sons." Claude said and the woman nodded.

"They came back to Almyra 5 years ago. Now my little ones are not so little anymore." She chuckled as Claude smiled sadly, "I'll introduce you to them when you come back one day."

"But back to the subject, when was the last time you saw Nar-Sandana?" He said and Inma thought for a moment before her eyes widened.

"Five years ago. She had made one trip and told me that would not be able to come anymore. I asked her why but she explained that tragedy had occurred in Fodlan. That was it." Inami explained and Claude knew what tragedy they were talking about, "She always avoided the topic of her past but she would speak fondly of her family. She would mention an older brother, adorable nieces, her boss whom she looked up to as a brother, and so many others. Her smile was always gentle when she spoke of them." She said and looked back at Claude with a fond expression.

"I hope you find happiness one day. I do believe you can." She said and stood up, dusting herself, "I've been here long enough. It's time I return to Almyra to prepare for a guest of mine I will pick in two years." She said with a smile and wink as she walked to the door.

"You're just gonna leave like that?" Claude said and groaned when his sister came back and kissed him on the cheek like his mother did when she would greet them, "I'm not a kid." The woman just chuckled as she walked back to the door.

"Ah...one more thing." She stopped, not once turning back to him as she spoke, "Khalid...The Central Church is not the enemy." She said and Claude remained silent, "Careful where you thread...or you'll become just like Edelgard." She said and his eyes went wide as she left and closed the door.

The click of the lock reverted through the room as he took in her words. He walked to his desk and looked down at the framed picture of all four houses' main class, with the staff, Archbishop, knights, and their professors. In the center sat Archbishop Rhea with Flayn on her right, Seteth on her left, and Crescent behind her. On the right of Seteth sat Arisa with the Blue Lions, Dimitri next to her. On the Flayn's left sat Hanneman with The Black Eagles, Edelgard next to him along with The Balck Eagles. Behind him and the Black Eagles were The Golden deer with Manuela, and Claude next to her. And behind Arisa and The Blue lions was Christian with The Ashen Wolf House, Yuri next to him. And behind all of them stood Jeralt, Florencio, Sandana, Xina, Gilbert, Alois, Amir, Alexandra, Castor, Pollux with their mask, Shamir, Hai, Catherine, Celica, Alm, and Anna. The photo was taken four months before Edelgard chose to invade.

The archer remained silent as he stared at the photo and then at the bracelet Alexandra gifted him years ago.

His sister's words...

"Your ideals...I understand they are not so far removed from my own." Edelgard said as she and Claude walked back to the monastery after going to the marketplace, "But without sufficient knowledge of Fodlan's suffering, I can not say I can trust you to lead Fodlan well as one of its leaders." Edelgard said and Claude stopped and thought for a moment.

The professor had been asleep for three days, ever since she returned changed when she broke through the sky. Claude put on a fake smile and spoke.

"Perhaps. I dare say it's true I don't fully understand the history of Fodlan. Still, I've seen many things in my life." He said but at that moment, it was like some voice suddenly rang in his head, a dark one.

"But do you truly know its history?" It said, "The people of Fodlan have been shackled by a decrepit system for so long." Claude remained silent as it continued to speak, "Think about it. The princess is right. Who steals your freedom and gives you an endless list of duties and obligations simply because you are born with a crest? Who forces you and your friends into a brunch of unwanted marriages and positions of power? The church even forbids any official contact with outside reigns!" It laughed darkly but...

"The church is not our actual enemy. It's the people at the top who make all the decisions." He said and Claude's eyes suddenly realized what he said that even Edelgard was surprised hearing it.

The two were grateful at the moment that no one was around to hear their conversation. Edelgard smiled bitterly as she hugged the paper bag with her things a bit tighter.

"Arisa said the same thing." Edelgard whispered, "I made an enemy with the church, not the faith." She repeated the woman's words.

"...Inami..." he whispered as he picked up the picture frame, "Just what did you see...? Am I...truly capable of becoming like Edelgard?"

"More than you realize it."

There it was again...that voice.

[—-]

The months passed and the war in Fodlan had become bloodier and deadlier as the days went by. Emperor Edelgard was forced to put the war at a stalemate, making it difficult to continue forward due to the invasion of Fhirdiad. Cornelia, crowning herself the new queen and renaming the north, Faerghus Dukedom, supported by the western lords, welcomes The Empire and union. Prince Zander, the sole survivor of the Faerghus Royal Family, created The Faerghus Resistance and under his command, the head houses of Faerghus worked together to keep the Empire from invading their lands. Working with him, the new commander of Sirius, Erik of House Charon, took on the role of leader due to Emily von Zoltras sealing away herself and her land to protect the people.

Now it is the Imperial year 1182.

On the Lone Moon, Duke Oswald von Reigan passed away in his sleep, succumbing to his illness, stating in his will that his title and position Leader of the Leicester Alliance and Head of House Reigan to his grandson, Claude von Reigan. Together with his comrades, they fended off Almyra's army and the alliance remained neutral. But Claude kept on his search for King Dimitri, Princess Lestia, Sadi, and Dedue, refusing to believe they lost their lives during the attack of 1181.

Now, a new unexpected event was happening in the Empire, once that would shake the core of the war.

A new spark blooms in the darkness.

- 1182: Blue Sea Moon -

It had been nearly a year since the war started and Chris currently looked like he was about to have a stroke as Gina sat on their bed, her face buried in her hands but most of all, the small sobs coming from the woman's lips.

"How could this happen?! I was on the pills Emily and Arisa had given me and you have been pulling out quick!" The woman sobbed and Chris sighed as he walked up to her and knelt, gently holding her hands.

"Gina, it's going to be okay. I promise. Besides, I'm not angry or disappointed." Chris said as the woman looked up and he gently wiped a tear away, "Yes, I'm shocked but we're going to be parents. It will be difficult, we will make mistakes, we will argue, but most importantly we will learn. And we aren't alone, we got our team with us." He grinned as Gina smiled and sobbed as tears fell, both intertwining their hands and resting their foreheads on each other.

"It'll be okay." He said and she nodded, "How many months?"

"Honestly, I don't know." Gina sighed as she placed her hand over her stomach and chuckled feeling Chris put his on it, "Chris...I'm worried. It's the first child born with Imperial Royal blood. I'm worried about the future. What will happen if word spreads th—" Chris shook his head, looking at her firmly.

"I will not let anyone hurt you or our child! Over my dead body." Chris said, "I made a vow to you at our wedding that I would protect you and any children we chose to have in the future. I will always keep it. I understand you are worried, I am too. You have every right to be concerned." He said as his wife smiled sadly.

"How do you think the others are going to react when they hear the news?"

"Oh...I never thought about it."

[—-]

"YOU ARE WITH CHILD?!"

All the birds of Nuvelle territory were spooked and flew away due to Constance's shrilling scream that scared the daylights out of everyone. But most of all, the stunned faces of everyone but the children who happily jumped up and down as they held hands.

"We're gonna be big brothers! We're gonna be big brothers!" Kaimu and Jaden cheered as Balthus walked up to the man and slapped him on the shoulder, smirking.

"Congratulations you two! But damn, Chris, who knew you had it in you!" Balthus said as Ferdinand smiled softly.

"Congratulations you two. And Chris and Gina, I promise to protect the little one." Ferdinand said as the man nodded.

After a few months of the war passed, Chris decided to reveal his identity to the group, especially after everything that had happened but also, he didn't want them to find out in horrible ways. Everyone minus the ashen wolves were shocked to learn of his identity. Chris didn't blame them for becoming angry as well as demanded answers to why he hid it for so long. Gina also revealed her identity which only added fuel to the fire. The children were confused but Gina explained in a gentle way to them.

"The reason your big brother and I hid our identities was because there are bad people that want to hurt us. If those bad people found out who we are, they want to hurt our friends and family." Gina said softly, getting the message through to them.

But the others were different stories. Chris had politely asked Constance and Balthus if they could take the kids to the other room and watch them for a bit. Of course, Ferdinand was the one that especially needed to know why he hid his identity. Chris somehow managed to keep himself from cursing in every sentence as he spoke of what happened during The Insurrection of The Seven, and why he and his siblings went missing. What happened to them. What was done to them under the command of Duke Aegir, Count Varley, and Count Arundel as well as telling him who they worked with and who truly Arundel is. As well as his crimes.

Ferdinand remained silent for a moment before he spoke.

"I see...So you are the one that told Dimitri and Lestia to give me that envelope..." Ferdinand said as he took deep breaths to calm himself, "Apologies, I need a moment to myself. Excuse me." He said and left.

"Ferdi..." Dorothea muttered but stopped feeling a hand on her shoulder, and saw it was Gina.

"Don't. This is something he needs to process alone. No matter how hard it is." The woman said as Dorothea looked at her angry for a moment but she knew she was right.

"Will you ever tell Hubert that you are alive?" The woman said and Gina smiled bitterly as she let go of her shoulder.

"I will. All I wanted was for him, our mother, little sister, and brother to be safe. I didn't want Hubert to get his hands any more dirty. So...I personally killed our father and his men." She said as the group looked at her shocked except for her husband.

"Do you have any regrets?" Dorothea whispered and suddenly she understood why Hubert and she were related.

"...Why would I regret killing the man who sold me to slavery? Why would I regret killing the man who would beat his wife and children? Why would I forgive the man who made my life a living nightmare?" She said with a smile on her face was making the songstress fear her life.

"But in all seriousness," Gina let go of a sigh, "I understand your anger. I know you all have more questions but it's best Chris and I give you all some space to organize your thoughts." She said as the man nodded.

They gave them their space and it took a few days but it was worth it. After everyone had cooled down, Chris explained again why he did it but also who knew about his identity. Of course, he told them Jeralt discovered his identity recently and of course, that Arisa, Amir, and Alexandra knew.

"But why do you say Arisa is your sister when you two aren't even blood-related?" Kama said and Chris smiled bitterly as he subconsciously placed his hand over his shoulder.

"Well...unfortunately I can not speak about that part." He said as everyone, looked at him confused, "She can't speak of it either. At least, not yet. We're...both bounded by a contract." That was what needed to be said.

"So, how many months?" Dorothea said as she and Kama's eyes sparkled looking at Gina's small bump.

"We don't know," Gina said as she looked at her husband as Constance walked.

"May I?" The blonde woman said and the couple nodded.

The young woman placed her hand over her stomach, a soft blue light began to emit from it and she smiled then stopped, removing her hand and looking at the couple.

"Congratulations! It's five months!" The couple reeled back, flabbergasted, "Do you want to know the gender?" They nodded, "It's a healthy baby boy."

"A little prince..." Ferdinand gasped as the couple and everyone in the room cheered, "Heh, looks like aim going to have to fight for favorite uncle." The man grinned and Chris couldn't help but chuckle.

But the unexpected suddenly happened.

There were loud bangs suddenly and Chris summoned The Sword of The Creator into his hands, stepping in front of the group as well as the others. The man narrowed his eyes as the bangs came from the hallway that led back to the doors of the entrance. He pointed to Ferdinand, Dominic, and Kama to come with him, all making their way carefully out. Tonight was nothing but horrible winds, terrible rains, and thunder. The thunder became louder as they came closer to the doors, the banging happened again but more desperate. Chris signaled the trio gets their weapons ready and they did. He walked to the door, and carefully placed his hand on the locks, undoing them before, unleashing a roar as he pulled them open, his weapons drawn but…

"PLEASE WE AREN'T THE ENEMY!"

Chris blinked multiple times to make sure he wasn't seeing things. Drenched in mud and rain, Ashe stood before him, being supported by Petra, who was also in a similar state. Behind them were Bernadetta and Linhardt, also in horrible states. The man was too stunned to speak till someone stepped in front of them, and the someone was Castor.

"Well?" Castor said and Chris snapped out of it, quickly pulling everyone in and closing the door, putting at least three more barriers to hide the place.

"Okay, how the hell are you all here?! And what happened?!" Chris screeched as the other trio was just stupefied.

Castor opened his mouth to speak and was interrupted.

"No, wait." Chris nodded a moment, "All of you, go get cleaned up." He said and they nodded.

Ferdinand and Kama quickly went to the group and guided them but Chris remained where he stood and only he, Dominic, and Castor remained.

"How the hell did you find this place?" Chris said as Castor sighed, "My sister. We've been communicating with each other through our dreams. It's...an ability that was given to us when we were created." The boy explained as Dominic looked at him surprised.

"Okay but, what the hell were you doing with Petra, Ashe, Bernadetta, and Linhardt?! All of you looked like you escaped a horde of assassins! No, the bigger question is how the hell they all escaped their territories?!" He said and Castor sighed.

"That's something you need to ask them. I was on my way here when I found them all huddled up hiding in a cave. And Ashe is also carrying with him some sort of relic."

That sent Chris into a cardiac arrest.

[—-]

"Oh Petra, Bernie, Lind! And Ashe! Oh, Great heavens!" Dorothea screeched and ran to hug all four of them tightly, "You're all covered in grime and blood! Is it more do you all look skinnier?! But it's so good to see you again!" The songstress said as she let go.

"It is good to see you again, Dorothea. We have much of the talking." Petra smiled softly as Linhardt looked ready to pass out at any moment.

"Castor, there weren't any more assassins right?" Bernadetta said and right at that moment, Chris arrived with the other two.

"I can assure you four, that no assassins are on their way. I contacted my spies immediately to let them know to keep an eye around the territory. I have...so many questions but first and foremost, I am glad you are all okay. But..." he looked at Ashe specifically and noticed how Bernadetta was having a hard time moving her left arm, "first and foremost, you all need to get cleaned up and patched up. Ashe y—-!" The young knight suddenly collapsed and the group ran to him, calling out his name.

"Stay with me, Ashe. Stay with me." Chris said as carefully picked him up and took him to the infirmary, he had a fever and Chris prayed he would be okay.

[—-]

Removing Ashe's armor, cleaning him, as well as treating his wounds, one giant slash on his back had started to get infected but they managed to treat him on time. The fever the boy had would have sent him into a state of panic had Emily not taught (forced) him to learn at least the basics of first aid. After he finished treating Ashe with the help of Constance and Gina treated Bernadetta, he needed some answers on what was going on. He sent the others to get cleaned up and eat before anything else was said. But one thing was clear, they were runaways. All of them had some small bag with few belongings as well as their weapons and tomes. At most, they looked like they hadn't had a proper meal in days, possibly weeks based on how Bernadetta was crying when she ate the hot meal Kama prepared.

Chris looked back at Ashe's belongings. The armor Ashe was wearing was that of an Imperial Knight, and the clothing Bernadetta and Petra had thrown into the pile of dirty laundry was that of a maid. Linhardt wore the clothing of a gardener.

"It's safe to say they all snuck out at some point...but how long ago?" The man thought as he walked around the place after everyone had fallen asleep.

First, the news that he was going to be a father, he was beyond happy and swore he would protect them all. Now, with Ashe and the others...he heard the news from a year ago of what happened as well as what was going into the Alliance.

"Claude is going to have his hands full with Shahid...I'm glad we aren't in that timeline." He thought as he walked back to the hallways and put on his black trench coat, and put on his wrist crossbow, "I have a meeting to get to." And out he went, into the dark rain as he put on his mask.

[—]

The last time Edelgard had received a letter from her brother was four months before her invasion and one letter during her time in Enbarr. The words on them were simple.

Why?

Don't do it.

This isn't right.

Please, don't do it.

Why are you working with them after everything we have been through?

You could have talked.

They could have helped you.

"They" were referring to the church as well as their friends.

Why didn't you have Jertiza help Monica?

I don't agree with this.

This is wrong.

Fodlan needs stability. A nation forced together will collapse.

If you don't this...

"I will," Edelgard muttered as she walked through the dark forest near Enbarr and deeper into the woods. Hubert was next to her, holding onto a lamp that glowed purple. The rain sprinkled down softly but the crackling of thunder was still vicious. Hubert remained silent for a moment as the continued walking before he spoke.

"Why did you not tell me?" He said and Edelgard remained silent for a moment before she spoke.

"I don't know." Were her answer and Hubert would have said something when suddenly, both heard the sound of mud squelching.

The mage quickly stood in front of her and they could hear someone walking toward them, then stop about ten feet away. Hubert raised his hand, glowing with dark magic, and spoke in a dark tone.

"Who goes there? Speak before I make this place your grave." He said and the one shadow spoke in a distorted voice.

"It has been quite some time...Hubert. I see my sister is beside you." The voice said and Hubert's eyes widened.

Chris walked out of the shadows, revealing he wore a black fox mask with red lines, a full-body black trench coat, and black boots. On his back was strapped a giant sword that the two former students learned was a type of weapon called a Claymore. Chris remained silent as he studied the two through his mask. Hubert was wearing a black imperial military-style coat with crimson collars and a black long cape. He wore black pants and boots. On his shoulder, he wore splint armor and his hair was somewhat messy and combed, covering his right eye. Chris looked at Edelgard, who wore a silver breastplate, with crimson shoulder armor, a red skit with metal armor, silver metal high tight boots, and a crimson cape. On her back was strapped Aymr but that wasn't what suddenly made Edelgard freeze. She placed her hand over her heart, feeling The Crest of Flames react...no. It was the same feeling she had when she was near Christian and Arisa...it was...

"Crest resonance."

She looked up and noticed how still her brother remained still before he raised his hand and pointed at her. His voice sounded distorted, most likely using a magic tool to hide his real voice.

"I am like you. I too feel it. I too survived and possess the Crest of Flames." He said and she felt her heart drop as he held up his hand and projected The Creat of Flames, "But there is a difference." He put his hand down, his voice low, "I vowed to destroy Thales. However, you work with the one who uses Claudia's flesh like a doll?!" He spat angrily as Edelgard gritted her teeth.

"You know nothing. What have you been doing all these years? Traveling after escaping?" She said and Chris snorted.

"I was under the basement of House of Aegir. Who do you think started the Fire of Aegir?" He said and Edelgard looked at him shocked, "Heagmon Husk. It went out of control. I'm just glad Fernindad survived. But the scars of that day will always remain." He said as Edelgard gritted her teeth.

"We've suffered and endured, yet you refuse to go against the church." Edelgard said, "What I am doing, is for the Empire. For the future of Fodlan." She said and Chris crossed his arms.

"Ah yes...Hubert. I don't think he has ever criticized you. He just blatantly followed your orders. The fact it took Arisa and the others to criticize and make you question your actions and knowledge is sad." He said and the mage gritted his teeth.

"And you?" Hubert spat and Chris remained silent.

"Ha." Edelgard let out a small laugh as she turned her back at her brother, "Why not show your face?"

"Once again, why did you choose to ally with those who killed our family?" Chris shot back, "Edelgard I'm warning you now, you can still cut ties with them. Think about the future!" He said and the girl turned to him furiously, The Crest of Flames glowing in her left eye and The Crest of Serios in her right.

"THE ONLY FUTURE I SEE IS ONE THAT RHEA IS GONE AND FODLAN IS FREE OF THE INFLUENCE OF THAT FALSE GODDESS!" She roared, gasping and panting for air yet, through the mask, Chris looked at her shocked.

"After everything we have been through, why?! Why are you choosing them and not me?! Why not me?! We can create a future that we want! We can create a world free of Crest! Free of the Church! A world where it won't matter where we are from, what blood runs through our veins, what powers we have- everyone will be treated equally! That is the world we are fighting for! " The girl yelled and was about to storm over to him till he held his hand up.

"Tell me...sister. Will you imprison those who pray to the goddess?" Edelgard narrowed her eyes, "Will you cut down men, women, and children who were cared for by the church?" Again, the silence was her answer.

"Will you lie to our people that you are having your soldiers turned into a demonic beasts to fight the war?"

"I will do anything to unite Fodlan."

"I miss the girl you once were..." Chris smiled bitterly behind his mask before he sighed and turned his back as she did the same.

"Many will." Edelgard said coldly, "She was easier to kill." She spat.

"Ha..." Chris laughed dryly as he closed his eyes, trying to hold back tears, "True. Guess we part ways here." He said as the Emperor began to walk, "Edelgard, just know...I will fight you. I will stop you. You have my word." She stopped for a moment.

"After all, it's an Elder Brothers' job to teach his the lessons we failed to learn to make sure they are not repeated by the younger generation. So...consider this an official declaration for a fight for the throne." He said as Edelgard sucked in her breath and Hubert was shocked.

"I'm choosing a future where we all live. Where we all can be together. Perhaps it sounds like a children's dream to you, but not to me. I chose my family. You and Henri, we're the only ones left. And...I'll be the one to put an end to Anacharis so Claudia may rest." He said and glanced at Hubert, "Gina says hi." The two suddenly quickly turned his way but...

"So long...El."

And he was gone. Edelgard remained silent as well as Hubert, shocked by such revaluation.

"That meant...she was the one that killed our father..." Hubert whispered as Edelgard let out a small sigh.

"Let us go, Hubert...his words are empty. He has no power to go against us."

But the voice deep inside her mind told her she needed to watch her back.

- The Next Day -

"You look like you're doing better." Chris smiled softly as he sat on his chair next to Ashe's bed, "You still have a lot of explaining to do." He said and looked to where Petra had arms on the bed and laid her head, fast asleep.

"It's a long story...do you really want to hear it?" Ashe said and Chris nodded, "Alright then..."

"But before we begin," Ashe looked at him confused, "Are you alright? And I don't mean physically. I mean mentally and emotionally." Chris said and Ashe smiled bitterly.

"No…No, I'm not. I'm being accused of murdering Count Gerth's General."

- Flash Back 1182: August: House Rowe -

News spread like wildfire that a dragon had appeared from the heavens months ago and rained down hell on Faerghus. Rumors spread quickly that it was the second coming of The Immaculate One. It didn't help that Fhirdiad had suffered great losses due to Cornelia's insurrection and the number of explosives that were used to attack the place. Ashe had only been able to learn of the news because of just how fast it spread. But most of all, because of the station he was assigned in. Being now the new lord of Gaspard Territory, Ashe knew his number one priority should be ensuring the safety of his people and family. Especially his two younger siblings.

The young knight let go of a sigh as he read the report about Kalsana and Zoltra territories.

"Think white fog covers the lands and giant black vines, thick and impenetrable like Arianrhod. No blade, fire, axe, or acid will destroy the vines. And if they do, they grow back thicker and stronger." Ashe looked up from his papers to the man that sat on a stool, oiling his armor to make sure it did not rust.

"I never liked the woman but who knew she was capable of such spell..." short combed back pale blue hair, slightly tan skin with wrinkles and a scar over his right eye and the bridge of his nose, a squared face, thick eyebrows, a mustache, and lone brown eye, the man's hands stopped for a moment, "Hmm...She does take after Ciradia." This man is Gwendal, a veteran knight of House Rowe, also known as "The Gray Lion".

"Pardon, Sir Gwendal?" the knight looked towards him, "But who is Ciradia? Did you mean Lady Cira?" Ashe asked and Gwendal was about to speak when suddenly the door opened.

Count Rowe was a man with short brown hair and wore the clothing of a priest, but his complexion was pale due to staying up most nights.

"Lord Rowe! Has something happened?" Ashe said and the Count sighed.

"The damage Emily did on Count Keilman is severe. It seems he will need new legs." He said and Ashe was shocked, "In case you do not know, during the insurrection of Fhirdiad, Emily cut off Count Keilman's legs." Ashe choked on his spit, "Cornelia along with a woman named Pittacus is currently working on a pair of prosthetic legs for him. Hmph. It's a good thing The Blaiddyd lands are filled with mines of silver and magic stones or else we wouldn't have these funds." Rowe said walking up to Ashe.

"Anyhow, you boy, are going to be assigned to work in the Empire for the next few months. You will be stationed at House Gerth." Count Rowe said as Ashe was trying to process what was just said to him, "House Gerth is short on soldiers along with House Ochos. You'll be leaving next week." He said and Ashe nodded and bowed, thanking the man for the opportunity.

Ashe didn't know what to say as he made his way to the knight's quarters to pack his things. The only good thing about his new position of being moved was that he was being sent to where Petra was. Another sigh escaped his lips as he finished packing and turned to head out but stopped, hearing a group of knights talking.

"Did you hear? A good portion of Daphnel Territory burned down." They said as Ashe raised an eyebrow, "Nah!" Another knight said, "What's scarier is the one-eyed monster." Another knight said.

"One-eyed monster?" Ashe whispered and put his ear on the door to listen, "Someone has been going around Kingdom Territory killing Imperial soldiers. Leaving their bodies beyond recognition and sometimes just leaving their heads on the ground as if displaying them. Some say they leave a trail of black mist in their wake. No survivors. Even some of our own have been killed." The knight said as he took out a cigarette to lit.

"Others are saying it could be a Wendigo..." a knight whispered and the group went stiff.

"No way! The only reason a Wendigo would be present is...oh gods...I just remembered those monsters especially love to come out during wartime." One shuttered and another knight smacked them on the head.

"Fool! Wendigos are just some made-up myth."

"Say that to the faeries!"

"Sh!" Another said, "Seriously, be careful if you go into the woods. The fae and faeries have been furious since the start of the war. They are kind to children but us adults are a different story." He said and they nodded.

Ashe waited for them to leave before he came out. That explained why everyone was currently forbidden to go near the woods. The professor had once told him and the others years ago during their younger days in Fhirdiad that children must always carry a silver charm with them if they go out into the woods during winter. Considering the amount of history she taught them, both for fun and curiosity, it was surprisingly helpful when he had to hunt with his younger siblings. Especially during the one time, they wandered too far into the woods.

"I should see if I could get the information..." Ashe thought and waited till night.

[—-]

Being a former thief had its benefits and quirks. One of them was able to sneak past security without ever being undetected, but also the training the professor put them through was helpful. But he and his classmates were also more politically aware of what was going on all around Fodlan. He watched as a group of knights made their rounds then silently ran to the stone walls, and jumped over them, using a bit of wind magic to enhance his jumps. In the air he flipped before he landed on the other side of the wall, he took a deep breath, looking back at the legendary fortress before putting on his hood and slipping into the darkness of the woods.

"Alright, now there is a reason I've brought only you ten here."

It was an odd group Arisa had chosen to bring out to the woods on a cold summer night in the academy. Ashe, Bernadetta, Ignatz, Flayn, Lysithea, Claude, Marianne, Yuri, Linhardt, and Dominic, were the ones she had chosen to bring into the woods. She was the only one that carried a torch. She turned to them, her eyes somewhat glowing but there was this...enjoyment in her eyes. She raised her hand and held up a small pouch with a strange symbol drawn on it with chalk.

"Is it me or do I smell...Lavender and honeysuckle?" Linhardt said and Arisa nodded.

"This." She pointed to the little pouch, "Is a little small ritual we are going to use to summon a spirit. And this!" She held up a piece of paper with a small piece in the middle that can make it rotate, "Is 10 years of hard work! A star chart!" The woman was practically beaming as she held up the paper as if it was a trophy.

"The sky of this world was similar yet not to that place! Ten years it took but finally, I did it! And!" She grinned as she held up a small stack, "I made some for you all also." Each one was given one.

However, their versions were different. It looked like an enlarged wooden compass with small-like marks around the rims of the circle with numbers. The center of it was a small green crystal and on the flat surface of the wood were craved delicate lines with small dotes as well as words in very small lettering. Around the rim of the circle were written north, east, south, and west along with numbers that represented the longitude and latitude of the sky and where they stood.

"These are called Star Charts. The paper version was my prototype and it took me ten years to fully map out the skies of each nation, which constellations appear during which season, and which stars are brightest. There are many more things I wish to say but I'm not about to explode your heads with information." She said with a small smile.

"By the way, all four houses will be learning this but we will be spitting in groups. Let's just say..." Arisa leaned in a bit and cupped her hand over the right sighed of her mouth with a cheeky grin, "What I'm teaching you is technically illegal in the eyes of Rhea. But Crescent and Seteth secretly approved of this." She giggled and never before had she seen Claude and Linhardt excited.

"Oooh! How exciting!" Flayn clapped her hands excitedly, "So um...how exactly do you use this...Star map?" Flayn said.

"Let's start with the basics." Arisa began and gently touched her star chart, "The green gem at the center of the start chart represents where you are currently standing, the point directly above us. This is called the zenith. And if you go 180° opposite the zenith, directly underfoot, is the nadir." She explained as the others nodded.

"Now, because it is August, the Verdant moon, certain constellations can be seen. And because today is one week away from my birthday, I wanted to wait for a specific moon phase. Does everyone remember the moon phase lesson from two months ago?" About half the group raised their hands.

"Okay, that should be good enough. Well, tonight," she pointed up to the sky and smiled mysteriously as the moon was above them glowing beautifully, "is the Waning Gibbous."

"The perfect time...to call for help," Ashe muttered as he arrived near the small open area of the woods where the waning gibbous moon could be seen clearly.

He knelt, taking out a small pouch filled with honeysuckle, lavender, and a drawing of the Hymra The Harpist constellation on it. He drew a circle, placed the pouch in the center, and let go of a deep breath he was holding back.

"Now, this little spirit unfortunately does not have a good reputation. Blame mages." Arisa said as she prepared the small ritual on the ground as the students watch, "Now, I'm going to show you why." She said and took out a small little wooden flute, a mercenary whistle.

She lit the small pouch on fire, and everyone watched it as it burned to ashes but the smoke seemed to remain in the same space still Arisa blew into the whistle, creating a low slow tune, and suddenly stopped.

They all remained silent and suddenly the smoke began to swirl and disappeared. It was safe to say the group of students was disappointed to not see anything till suddenly a light pink maple leaf floated down and Arisa held her hand towards it. They watched it float and land, and then before their eyes, it quivered and it turned into a cute little...moving red spotted mushroom with little beady eyes and a cute squeal.

"It's mushy!" Marianne gasped as Arisa smiled softly and the little one looked around, "But...I thought these little ones were...notorious for being cunning." She said as Arisa chuckled.

"Oh, they are cunning alright. But that is because of the reputation mages have created for them over the years." Arisa smiled sadly as she gently petted the little one with her finger, "You see, Mages tend to summon mushy because they want them to fetch them the herbs they want but they bring them something else. This angered many mages throughout the years and thus the stigma that they are stupid is there..." she explained and held her hands up to allow it to float away.

"You see, mushys bring you what you need, not what you want."

Ashe held his hand up, watching a ginkgo leaf float towards his hand and land. He watched it quiver and looking back at him were little eyes. He smiled softly and spoke in a gentle tone.

"Hello there. I'm...the one that summoned you." He said and the little one nodded, "I will be going to the Empire soon and I wish to help a friend of mine. Can you help me?" He said and it nodded, he held out his hand to allow it to float away, and now he will wait.

"So let me get this straight, the reason these cute little fellas get a bad reputation is that some mages get angry that they bring them something that they need but not what they want?" Dominic said as Arisa nodded, "That's um...just how narrowed-minded are some people?"

"You be surprised," Arisa said and held out her hand again, the little one returned, floating down like a jellyfish in the water and onto the palm of her hand.

"So, what did you bring?" Arisa asked and it looked like it was smiling as in her other hand appeared a small bouquet of lavender flowers and a strange blue flower, "Lavender for my sleep and...glaze lily...for..." she stopped and nodded, "Thank you." She smiled softly and handed it a small piece of Carmel.

It squealed and disappeared into blue dust.

"Also, the main reason I brought you all here today is that this spirit can only," she pointed to a specific constellation, "be summoned during the season when the constellation, Hymra the Harpest is visible in the sky. As you all know, the constellation is named after Saint Hymra who was a well-known harp player during The War of Heroes. Legend says that Saint Macuil fell in love with her music and eventually he fell in love with her. Add the fact that she was a fairy doctor and mushies were her, I quote, children. They would help her as she traveled Fodlan, allowing her to teach people about the supernatural and heal them and those of the mortal world." Arisa finished explaining as she looked back to the glaze Lily that was given to her.

"The star maps change with each season that way you all won't struggle. Hunters, merchants, and caravans use these to navigate as they travel. I hope they will help you as well."

Ashe held out his hand and the little one landed, and it placed in his other hand a dark green mushroom with five smaller ones. The archer was confused by it because he had never seen it before but still, thank the little fairy and handed it a small scone from the ones he made earlier. He watched it disappear into dust and looked at his hands...

"Petra...I'll see you soon."

- A week later -

Ashe had never been to the Empire before, much less into the deeper more forest areas of the nation. A fertile woodland and a cool place. The Territory of House Gerth was near the sea but also surrounded by thick forest and mountains. The scent of sea salt brought some sort of comfort. If anyone wanted to break into the place by doing some sort of invasion, it would be difficult. Ashe along with the group he was assigned with, arrived at the gates of The County of Gerth. The County of Gerth seemed lively, people living on normally but there was still tension in the air as the war had waged on. The buildings looked somewhat newer and there was plenty of construction going on, most likely renovation. The mansion of House Gerth was high up in a hill and mountain area, a bit similar to House Aubin. The knights made their way there, and Ashe rode his wyvern as they made their way.

The ride up was a bit bumpy for the Calvary unit and those of the sky offered to help them. The one thing that irked Ashe was just how prideful some of the knights were. Especially the veteran ones that were with his group. He did not like them one bit but did his best to keep his composure. They boasted in great pride about how the Blaiddyd household fell and how that beast that ruled the land was gone for good. He sucked in his breath, desperately trying to tune out the sneers, jeers, and gossip. Ashe prayed that Dedue, Sadi, Dimitri, and Lestia were alive.

"Hey. We arrived." A knight said and Ashe looked down to the mansion.

"That's House Gerth?! It looks like a fortress!" Ashe gawked as his companion laughed.

"Well, it has to be built that way! It used to be smaller but you know how things went in went during the Dadga-Brigid war." They said as they landed.

"Oh, I got a better story!" One of the older knights said and pointed to the giant tower that was most likely 40 floors up, a single window was up.

The tower was covered in thorns and vines, the only entrance was the door at the bottom to go in and out. Though he wasn't very good at magic, he could sense some sort of powerful force field surrounding it. The tower didn't look small either. Despite how tall it was, thanks to his archer eyesight, Ashe could see way up high that there were metal rails around the giant flat area on the top floor of the tower. Most likely some sort of training field was created. Ashe's fellow knights noticed he was staring and spoke.

"That's the Western fortress, said where the Princess of Bridge is being kept locked up. They had to up security for a good measure because she's quick on her feet." They said as Ashe looked up at the tower, worried.

"Anyhow, let's go! We're getting assigned today to our new positions." A veteran yelled out, "Hurry up, you whelps! I'm not about to deal with Count Gerth's nagging all day!" He said and the group ran after him.

[—-]

The inside of the fortress of Gerth reminded Ashe of Arianrhod. The walls were made of hard gray bricks, giant pillars build to support the place. Wide and long hallways that allowed big ground for knights to pass through should there be an enemy invasion. Weapons were displayed on the walls as well as carpets on the floor. Knights stationed at the ends of the hallways and a few guard dogs roamed around the place. Servants moved around quickly getting from place to place. Ashe remained silent as his group chatted away as they made their way through the hallways to Count Gerth's office. The veteran knight knocked and they were allowed in. But seeing a familiar cape made Ashe's blood run cold as the person that was talking to the Duke turned to look at this group.

"...Don't you know you're supposed to wait outside?"

Their white hair had grown slightly longer, yet now they wore a brown colored cotton shirt with loose long black sleeves, and the ends of it wrapped around their middle fingers. On his wrist, he wore gold bracelets with magic stones embedded into them. A purple tunic cloth he wore around his waist with a belt and gold medallion, black tights, black boots with gold. Around his neck and covering his shoulders he wore a golden gorget with small spikes at the end. And with a cape with six eyes drawn on the long collars. On his right shoulder sat the rat named Gi, who had a small magic collar, glowed purple and eyes red, and on his left was a crow.

Henry looked at the group of knights, all of them intimated by his aura but the mage grinned once he spotted a familiar face but returned to look back at Duke Gerth.

"As I said, we'll need a messenger to soon be sent to Brigid. They must cooperate with us if they wish to be able to speak to Princess Petra." Henry said Duke Gerth sighed but nodded.

"It will be done, Lord Henry. And also, the item from House Ochs arrived just recently. It will be guarded, I promise." The Duke said as Henry nodded.

"Good. We don't need the only relic of Saint Macuil to go missing. And Emperor Edelgard has decided for you to be the new master of the Territory of Ochs. The lands are yours now." Henry said as the Duke nodded, "Now, about your knights..."

Ashe felt dread as Henry smiled in his direction.

"My, my! I did not expect to see Garreg Mach's number archer here!" Henry said as everyone but Ashe looked at him confused, "Well, former number two." The mage said as he pointed at Ashe, "I recommend him to watch the Princess. It'll keep her calm." He said and walked to the door of the office and left, leaving the door closed.

All eyes turned to Ashe, their gazes made him feel like an insect being studied yet Count Gerth spoke.

"Speak, knight. What is your name?" The count said and Ashe let out a shuttered breath and bowed.

"My name is Ashe Ubert. I am a knight that is originally from Arianrhod and has been stationed here with my squad." Ashe said and Count Gerth hummed.

"What did Lord Henry mean that you are Garreg Mach's number two archer?" He questioned and asked to speak.

"I used to be a student that attended the Officer's Academy. During the Blue Sea Moon, an archery contest was held and I along with several of my classmates participated. I was in the group of top 10, second to Claude von Reigan." Ashe said as he remembered the archery contest from a year ago.

Claude was in the first place, he was second, Ignatz came in third, Bernadetta in Fourth, Noire fifth, Cyril sixth, Petra seventh, Dominic eighth, Mercedes nine, and Edelgard in tenth place. Count Gerth held his chin and thought for a moment before nodding.

"I see. Seeing that Lord Henry has recommended you, I trust his judgment. I will have you assigned to guard and escort Princess Petra. Fabian!" Gerth turned to the Veteran Imperial knight who bowed, "Have this one assigned to guard the Princess. Show him the place."

"No way, the newbie got promoted already?" A knight whispered and their companion told them to shut up.

Ashe didn't know if it was a blessing or a curse.

[—]

The veteran knight remained silent as he walked him through the courtyard. Imperial soldiers trained sparred, some stopped to see how their captain had brought and a few whispered among themselves. But Ashe did not miss the wary gazes but most of all, some looked at him with pity as they realized he was being taken to the tower. They arrived a few minutes later, at the door where a magic beast panther growled at them. The knight stopped, looking down at it, and it yelped before it disappeared.

"That is a panther spirit. It must be sensed the Princess is here. A good thing she is not a mage or we have trouble." The Captain said and turned to him, "I never introduced myself but my name is Fabian, Captain of the Gerth Empire Veteran Duelists. Do well to remember, boy. Things here will be different than in the kingdom. Should you betray the Empire, your life is forfeited. Do I make myself clear?" He said and Ashe nodded, "Good. Now let us go."

Into the tower they enter, Ashe looked up to see the spiral staircase continue for a long time. He gulped, intimated by it but took deep breaths as they began to go up the stairs.

Ashe didn't know how long it took to reach the top but by the time they got to the door, he wanted to puke and collapse. The veteran knight only frowned at him with a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"Ha. Even the princess is stronger than you. She can take these stairs every day since she has tried to escape." Captain Fabian said as they finally arrived at the top floor and knocked on the wooden door.

"Who is it?"

"It's me, Your Highness," Fabian said and the door unlocked, some sort of magic seal was on it.

They were allowed in and Ashe looked around the room. It was huge. Giant library shelves were on walls filled with books. A king-size bed near the window with lavender, violet, and crimson bedsheets, pillows, and blankets with gold embroidery and designs. A fur bear skin carpet was on the maple wood floor and from the ceilings hung potted plants with long vines and flowers. A few cats roamed around and a falcon was perched on a wooden tree branch near the bed. It raised its head and hissed in their direction. And near the other window where the trees were was a desk with wooden carts, littered with books, glass, and wooden needs, a few needles and fabrics as well a dagger or two. But most of all, the one standing at the desk was Petra.

"Why are you here, Sir Fabian?" Petra's voice was cold, along with her gaze.

It had been nearly two years since he saw her and she had grown. Petra was slightly taller, her burgundy hair had grown much longer and had it tied into three long braids that stopped just half of her back. She wore a net-like golden head circle around her head with green long beads on the sides. She wore a crimson tunic with a long purple scarf around her neck. Shoulder armor, a purple sash around her waist with gold jewelry and on her thighs. The armor around her legs and brown sandals. One her waist here also strapped the leather sheaths but they were empty because the daggers were on her desk. On her wrist, and arm, she wore gold cuffs.

The woman looked at the captain coldly till her eyes landed on Ashe. Her eyes widened, shocked to see him as he gave her a small smile.

"This is Ashe, a new knight that has been assigned to guard you and also your retrainer. Orders from General Henry and the Emperor." Fabian said as the woman gritted her teeth but nodded stiffly, "I will be going now. I leave her in your hands." He said and left to turn to leave.

"Wait." Petra suddenly and the knight stopped, glancing her way, "Is...it true that King Dimitri is dead? Is...is it true that...The Empire had Princess Lestia's and Lady Rhea's bodies?" She said and Ashe was shocked hearing this.

"...Lady Rhea is in the Tower of Solitude if that is what you want to know. As for the princess, I do not know. But King Dimitri is dead." The knight said and the looked of pain that fell on Petra, made him quickly leave and shut the door.

They were left in silence as the princess gritted her teeth and sat down on her chair, burying her face in her hands. Ashe didn't know what to do as he carefully walked up to her and knelt. He could hear her sniff.

"It can not be..." Petra sucked in her breath then let it out but then blinked when she felt something land on her thighs.

She removed her hands and blinked again to make sure she wasn't seeing things. There, right in front of her, was Professor Arisa's owl, Feh.

"Hoot!" It hooted and Petra was shocked as she looked up at Ashe.

"Captain Jeralt entrusted her with me. She's been my partner these past two years." Ashe smiled sadly as Petra wiped her tears and nodded.

"It is good to see you again, Ashe. But...why are you here in the Empire?" Petra asked as Ashe sighed.

"It's...a long story. But right now, I am glad you are okay. I was worried about what happened to you during the Invasion of Garreg Mach." He said and Petra nodded.

"I wanted to know what happened but they are keeping me in the dark. I have not heard of anything or anyone since that day. As you saw, I heard of the rumors of Dimitri's death, as well as that they are keeping Lady Rhea's and Lestia's bodies here." She said and Ashe looked at her shocked.

"Wait...then, you don't know anything that has happened these past two years?" He said and Petra shook her head.

"As I said, they have kept me in the dark. They have chosen to keep me in silence." Petra said and Ashe felt his blood boil but took deep breaths to calm himself.

"Petra, a lot has happened in the past year and seven months. Do you want me to tell you everything that has happened?" He said as the princess stared at him but nodded.

"I do..." Petra said as her gaze became half-lidded, "It is not fair that I am the only one known in the dark. Everyone has helped me grow so much and learn. I want to know what happened to our friends. And...why has Edelgard used us." Petra said and Ashe nodded.

"I'll prepare us some tea. It is a lot that has happened." Ashe said s the princess nodded, "Um..." Ashe stood up and looked around, "Which shelf is the one that has the teas?" He chuckled nervously.

"Oh!" Petra gasped and stood up, Feh flew off and landed on Ashe's head, she couldn't hold up a chuckle, "This room has many of the shelves with books. But there is one shelf with glass jars and metal boxes filled with tea. Recently, Count Gerth brought me coffee and cacao beans that were imported from Bridgid. I would like to share some with you." She said and Ashe nodded.

The coffee was prepared along with a few snacks that Ashe had never seen before. Petra explained that the tower she is in has a kitchen on the second floor and that she was allowed to use it. Because of this, and the recent import of various foods and supplies from Brigid and Dagda, she has had many ingredients from her homeland to make some of the dishes of her home. Originally, she didn't know how to cook but during their time in the academy, she learned to cook and bake from Bernadetta, Mercedes, Dedue, Cyril, Claude, and Sadi. And also from Professor Arisa, who showed them a variety of dishes and desserts they had never seen. Some were similar to the ones of their homeland.

"It was a lot of trial and error but I soon got it right! Professor Arisa gave me the high five." Petra smiled fondly as she looked at the dessert she and Ashe were currently eating.

It was a boiled small cake made from rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. Then it was rolled in shredded coconut. It was a dessert called Palitaw, one commonly eaten in her homeland and one she missed.

"Before you tell me what has happened, why are you here in the Empire?" Petra said as Ashe stopped his cup halfway and put it down, staring at the four-spiced tea in it.

"...About a year ago, before we returned to Fhirdiad, I told Dimitri and the others that I would join the Empire so I could gather information and hopefully, help you and our friends." He said as Petra smiled bitterly.

"What has happened?"

Ashe didn't know where but he began with the aftermath of The Invasion of Garreg Mach, where the professor, Amir, and Alexandra were dead. That what was left of the knights and four houses regrouped to heal before they all went their separate ways. All the students returned to their homes. How Christian was on the run along with Dorothea and Ferdinand, who he swore he would protect. His choice to join the Empire then the news of the fall of Fhirdiad. The death of the royal family except for Zander, who was now the leader of the Faerghus resistance. How Emily sealed away Zoltra and Kalsana Territory using a spell he had never seen and the appearance of the unknown dragon. The Death of the Oswald Reigan and Claude now is the new Leader of The Alliance. But most of all how Dimitri and Lestia were pronounced dead, as well as Dedue and Sadi, have gone missing.

Petra's expressions changed so much during their conversation. From anger, to worry. Joy and sorrow, and even rage. It was a whirl of emotions, so much that she had to step out to the balcony for a moment to process everything that was told to her. Ashe did not miss how the woman grabbed a training sword and started hacking at the training dummy. Ashe understood her anger and left her alone for a while till she returned to her room, taking deep breaths and sitting down. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying, but she took deep breaths and smiled sadly as Feh landed on her shoulder and nuzzled her cheek.

"Thank you, Ashe...I apologize for you seeing me do that." Petra said as she rest her hand on her forehead, "All this has happened...has the-no, you wouldn't know..." The princess sighed and smiled sadly.

"Thank you, Ashe, for telling me this." Petra said as Ashe nodded, "Oh." She looked out to the balcony and blinked, "We have talked much. It is night already." She said and even Ashe was surprised.

"I didn't even notice how much time had passed." Ashe said as he stood up along with Petra, "It was good to see you again Petra. And...I'm sorry you had to learn all this suddenly." He and Petra shook their head.

"No. I am glad you have told me. If not, I would have been kept in the dark. Thank you for telling me all that has happened." Petra said and Ashe nodded and smiled sadly, "Ashe...you are also allowed to hurt." She said and the knight looked at her shocked.

"When you spoke, I could tell you were holding back pain when you spoke of the events of the past. Back in the academy, there was a time I was very angry. The professor noticed and invited me to join a hunt in the woods. When we arrived at a lake, she told me to scream, cry, and speak of all my troubles. I was hesitant at first but...eventually, I started to speak. I spoke of my sorrows, screamed my rage, even cursed the vilest in my national language." Petra chuckled softly, "After that, It felt as if a heavy weight was lifted off. The professor only watched and nodded." She said smiling softly as she placed her hand over her heart.

"Are you feeling better?" Petra repeated her words, "Yes, I am feeling better." She smiled at him, "She also told me I can write how I feel in a journal. And if I do want people to read my feelings and thoughts, I write them in a letter then burn it." She explained and Ashe was too stunned to speak.

He didn't know what to say as he opened and closed his mouth like a fish out of water. The older knights of the kingdom always told him and his fellow knights to not let their emotions get in the way in their line of duty. That it was their duty to follow the orders of their lord, no matter what. It was also a subject that worried him and Ingrid especially. Would they follow their Lord if they went down a dark road? Can they truly shut away their feelings?

"No. No. That's just plain wrong. You're human. You're allowed to feel. You're allowed to judge. You're allowed to do what you want. Most of all, you can think for yourselves. Do what you believe is right. Do what your heart tells you."

Arisa's words suddenly rang in his head. The woman always told them that they were allowed to feel. That they did not need to follow harmful traditions. At first, Ingrid had become aggravated when she said this. But then Arisa began to break it down, in front of the entire blue lions class, not just the main, but the normal class as well. At the end of the day, everyone was left questioning things but also, many questions were raised. Slowly but surely, there was a positive change, or should he say, a new way of thinking was to come.

Ashe smiled softly as he nodded, feeling the first tear he has shed in a year and seven months. Petra smiled softly as she walked up and reached out to him, gently cupping his cheek. The man was surprised when she suddenly hugged him carefully, resting her head over his heart.

"I'm happy to see you again Ashe. Truly..." Petra said as he closed his eyes and nodded, smiling softly as he hugged her back.

"Me too...Me too..."

(To be continued...)