Mornings were not Byleth's ally. While she has no qualms about waking up at sunrise to work, she was not as effective as she would be during the evenings. To curb this small inconvenience she would go to the mess hall's kitchen and brew a cup of tea for herself.
Opening the doors to her wardrobe, Byleth grabbed her uniform, shaw, leggings, and boots and promptly assembled her work attire.
Grabbing her brush, Byleth pulled the front sides of her hair back and put the lily pin that Lady Rhea gifted her on to create a loose ponytail to avoid her hair from obstructing her view.
Byleth heard a disappointed sigh behind her wardrobe door, "Another monotonous day for you, isn't it.'
"We all have our given duties S. I have mine. And it is something I must fulfill."
"Ah yes, the very important duty of paperwork."
Byleth scowled at the floating child, "I am still determining whether you are a sign of madness, or an actual being separate from me."
"Ha. Ha. Very well, carry on with your monotony." And just as suddenly as the elven girl interrupted, she dissipated.
Byleth sighed. She really didn't need the inconvenience of that creature.
Grabbing her satchel, the deaconess opened the door and headed down the stairs.
The halls were quiet and empty, with the exception of the clacking of Byleth's boots against the stone floor.
Finally making her way to the mess hall Byleth took down one of the steel kettles, filled it with water, laid one of the bags of black tea in, and set it to boil.
Taking a seat on one of the mess hall benches, Byleth contemplated her new location. While Garreg Mach was similar to the many monasteries she lived in over the years, the monastery's scale was a massive adjustment.
To her, the scale was incredibly inconvenient, taking twice the time to go where she was needed. However, she came to Garreg Mach at Rhea's request and she was not one to decline her teacher's request.
Noticing the tea was ready, she quickly poured herself a cup and with a great pace, walked to the audience chamber to start her day.
Setting her cup down on a coaster, Byleth took her paperwork and quickly began to organize it.
Seteth entered the room disheveled, dropping a pile of paperwork and letting out an exhausted sigh, "Thank goodness Rhea summoned you when she did. I've been having to temporarily fill in as one of the instructors here due to how short-staffed we are."
"I am to go to where I am needed, Seteth."
Seteth frowned. Whilst the deaconess's dedication to the church was admirable, it was unnatural. She was nothing more than a mere child, yet she only stops for food, water, or sleep, and does what she is told, with no complaints or objections.
He couldn't help but be concerned for the youth. Despite his worries, Seteth was tired and needed help. "Deaconess, I have something to ask of you."
"Hm?"
"Could you take the list of attendance to the Golden Deer's house leader? I am currently supervising their class this week however I just need…a few moments of respite before instructing."
"Very well."
"Kind of you deaconess. Thank you." Promptly as the Archbishop's student left the room, Seteth laid his head down on his desk, mumbling that he would be up to the task in a few moments.
Byleth looked at the attendance papers with interest. She was familiar with the political landscape of Fodlán due to the requirements of her job. She had to know who is who, who hates what, who 'stole' what from who, amongst other things.
However, Claude was unknown to her. Initially, she had thought the Riegan bloodline was heirless due to unforeseen circumstances, but then, this new heir appeared out of thin air.
Byleth had every reason to question his legitimacy, but she could care less for birthright as long as he does his job effectively.
It wasn't the randomness of his existence that sparked her curiosity. Byleth tried to recall the brief time spent on their first meeting, but she could not point out what exactly interested her about the noble.
Regardless, she had a job to do. Returning the paperwork to their folder, the deaconess quickly made her way to the classrooms. However as she entered the classroom, the heir was not to be seen. Looking around she noticed a small girl deep within a textbook.
Byleth tapped the girl's shoulder hoping to get her attention, "Excuse me. Would you happen to know where your class leader is?"
The girl, not even taking her eyes away from the book, pointed at the classroom's entrance.
Not having any other clues, the Deaconess followed the direction of the girl's hand.
Opening the doors, she saw Claude across the lawn talking amongst his peers. Byleth wondered how she could have missed him on her trek here.
As she was walking towards him, she started to slow her pace till she was standing, and just observed.
Whatever piqued her interest in him on the night of their meeting, it was on full display now.
His expressions and use of language flowed freely, a lack of rigidness compared to the other house leaders. Whilst no doubt he held secrets about himself…he was genuine.
The nobles she met over the years often would have the customary veneer of professionalism, and elegance, fitting into said masks of the upper class.
However, in her observation of the house leader, instead of one mask, he had several. What she noticed was his masterful control of the situation.
From cheerful, and mischievous, to serious and respectful, he was like an actor on a stage, changing to what is needed at the moment. Despite the change in role, however, it was still him, it was still genuine.
He showed complete understanding and mastery in an area she lacked. Claude had something she didn't. And he had it in spades.
Aware that he was being observed, Claude shooed away his peers and waved at her.
Snapping herself back to the task at hand, Byleth strode over to the Alliance heir and handed Claude the attendance records.
Looking at the forms and back at Byleth, there were hints of confusion littered across his face, "Oh? Where's Seteth?"
"He will be here shortly, Seteth is taking a few moments to rest before instructing. Garreg Mach being short-staffed is taking a toll on him."
"You won't be teaching us today will you?"
"He had not requested that of me, but if his brief moment of respite extends, I suppose I would take on the role if needed."
Claude broke into laughter, "That was meant as a joke 'professor'."
The deaconess's expression was unmoving. Byleth peered across Claude and noticed Seteth walking towards the Golden deer classroom at a brisk pace, "If that is all, I will be taking my leave."
"I am sure Seteth appreciates the help. Thanks for stopping by Deaconess. Feel free to come by later." Regaining his composure, Claude smiled at Byleth
"Noted."
Byleth was still pondering over her observation of the house leader. Claude showed masterful control of something, but what? What did he display? It was something she clearly lacked.
He had a vast bounty of it, and knew how to exactly measure what was needed and knew when said thing was needed.
"Emotion. He had displayed control and understanding of emotion." Byleth spoke silently to herself as she released the quill from her grip.
For as long as memory allows, it was the one thing she couldn't comprehend.
Such a natural ability Byleth was unable to enact. It was an action her mind and body could not permit.
Whilst this…affliction did not bother her, since it did not interfere with her duties, it concerned and even alarmed others.
For a good while, Byleth wanted to comprehend or at least understand why such an ability was important. However, the reasons given to her, Byleth found…confusing.
Could a master of such skill like Claude help her come to a full comprehension of this? Understand what was so important?
There was only one way to find out.
'It is the time when students are on recess. Claude should be free.'
Putting her paperwork aside, and grabbing her satchel, Byleth rose from her seat and made her way out the door.
As she exited the cold administration office, the warmth of the midday sun hit her skin.
Students were laughing and strewn across the lawn. Byleth looked around but she couldn't see the Duchal heir anywhere. 'Could he be inside the classrooms?'
Carefully navigating across the lawn to make sure not to step on the other students, Byleth landed in front of the Golden Deer's classroom. Quickly reposing herself, she pushed the wooden doors open to what she can only describe as chaos.
One student who was of noble rank was arguing with another. One was quietly observing said argument and sketching it in a notebook. Another student who was clearly deprived of sleep was just trying to read. Another student was navigating the chaos with a book at hand. One was clearly trying to flirt. The other was clearly more focused on his meal than his classmates.
'It wasn't quite like this, this morning?'
Byleth could feel the warmth of a hand on her shoulder, "Quite the whiplash isn't it?" Looking to see who was the owner she realized it was the person she sought in this brief excursion outside her work
Claude released his hand from her shoulder, and waved at his classmates to get their attention, "Well! Everyone! Look who decided to join us today! Didn't think you would accept my invitation so soon."
"Yes. Well, you did offer."
"Anything I can help you with? Or are you just here to join the fun?"
"Ah yes. I was hoping to possibly talk with you somewhere more…quiet?"
"Private audience with the Deaconess? I'm honored." The Duchal heir said while doing a small, almost mocking curtsy.
"Nothing of the sort, Riegan. I simply have a query that could use your insight."
"Very well, I could provide as much guidance as my insight allows." Claude then snapped his view towards his peers "I'll be back shortly guys! Gotta help Deaconess Buh-By-"
"Byleth is fine."
"Gotta help Deaconess Byleth here with a query!" He was smiling ear to ear with his announcement to his classmates, however, it seemed his declaration fell onto deaf ears. Lifting a shrug, Claude exited the door. Byleth followed shortly after.
The pair walked to the front of Monastery's greenhouse, where there were noticeably fewer people, "People rarely want to gawk at plants outside of spring, should be less hectic" Claude then turned towards Byleth with a grin, "So! Deaconess, what is your query?"
Grounding herself to the new setting, Byleth spoke, "Can you…explain it to me, Claude?"
"Explain…what precisely?"
"Can you…explain emotion to me?"
"What?"
"You seem to have an understanding of emotion, which I don't have. It is my hope you could explain it in such a way that makes sense."
"But….why?"
"For as long as memory allows…I had something that could only be described as an affliction. I simply do not have the ability to comprehend, nor feel emotion. I tried for many years to understand this affliction to no avail. Many felt remorse for my condition, however, it does not interfere with my work or impair me in any way I could think of. I would like to understand what I lack."
Claude was speechless at what Byleth was telling him. For a moment he thought it was some crude prank but just from looking into her eyes, she was telling the truth. It explained so much about their first meeting.
This was the chance he was waiting for. An opportunity for an allyship with the Deaconess, but…how can Claude explain such a complex matter? How can he explain it to someone who has never experienced such a thing? It was like trying to explain something as second nature as breathing.
Claude was left scratching his head, "Well your situation is certainly unique, I'll give you that. I can certainly try but I don't think my insight will mean anything"
"I see. Sorry for taking your time. I will be leaving then-"
Byleth was about to turn to leave but Claude grabbed her shoulder, "Hold it, hold it. Now I am not saying I won't help you. It's such a strange task. That's all. I mean how can you explain such a thing to someone who has never experienced emotions?"
"But you said the insight you would provide would most likely not aid my current situation"
Claude briefly rolled his eyes, "Ok, let me rephrase this, no insight or explanation would help in the way you need. It's more of a thing that needs to be seen, rather than explained."
"I've seen emotion before Claude."
"Have you?"
"Elaborate."
"From what I can surmise about you..your experience with people is rather limited, correct? Coming from a remote monastery and all"
"I suppose so."
"My proposition to you is to go out, meet a variety of people from various and diverse backgrounds. Observe, and see how they react in certain situations."
"And where do you propose such an experiment be held, Riegan?"
Claude grinned, as he was waiting for her to say this, "Why not join us for class today? There are various people from different backgrounds in the Golden Deer Class. It would give you a real chance to see how different people react to different situations all in one place! Perfect for this little experiment don't you think?"
"Interesting proposition. Partaking in this venture should be harmless."
"That's the spirit! Trust me, you're going to like this."
Byleth couldn't help but feel hesitant about this proposal as Claude grabbed her hand and led her back to the classroom.
Claude's hand was hesitant pulling the door handle, "Class should be starting soon-" he turned his gaze towards Byleth, "Ok- we can't have everyone officially meet you with a stone face like that. It'll make everyone uneasy. We don't want that."
"What do you suggest Claude?"
Claude put his hand to his chin and spent a moment in thought, "Maybe when you introduce yourself, smile?"
The girl stared at him blankly.
"You know? Smile!" Claude then proceeded to demonstrate.
"I understand Riegan." It wasn't for a lack of effort or understanding, Byleth just could not simply find it in herself to perform such an expression. But…this action was vital for the experiment.
Byleth put both of her hands to her face and smoosh it upwards, making her face grin. In a muffled voice she responded to Claude, "Is this sufficient?"
Claude had to cover his mouth to prevent the burst of laughter from escaping him, "We…we can work on something else later." Shrugging his shoulders, he opened the door.
Seteth was writing down the day's lesson on the chalkboard when he heard the door shut, "Oh? Riegan? Unlike you to be on time for class."
"Had to help someone find their way here. You know, the gist." Claude proceeded to slump himself against one of the chairs to the front of the class.
Seteth's eyes widened as he saw Byleth standing there, "Deaconess? What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be in your office?"
Byleth did a small curtsy to her superior "I will be attending class today as part of an important experiment. Is that…problematic? If so, I will leave at your request."
Seteth was stunned at the sight. He didn't know what scheme the young heir had roped Rhea's student into, but he was relieved at the development, even if it stemmed from Riegan's meddling.
Grabbing the chalk he gave the young girl a grin, "No, no. Please, stay. Your presence is welcomed. Just…a bit of a surprise, that's all. Would you care to introduce yourself to the class? Many might not be familiar with who you are."
"Certainly." Walking to the front of the class, Byleth spoke "Greetings. I am Byleth. Deaconess of the church, and student of Lady Rhea. I am honored to be a guest amongst you." She was just about to turn to go take a seat but stopped midway, "Claude said my resting expression might cause unease and possibly interfere with the experiment"
Byleth proceeded to squish her hands on her face to form a smile in front of the whole class, "He suggested smiling to circumvent this, is this sufficient Seteth?
Claude felt like his jaw was about to drop to the floor.
The class was littered with small chuckles, giggles, and whispers.
Seteth promptly made a sound clearing his throat, signaling to the class to quiet down, "Trust me, Deaconess, your…expression will not interfere with your research. Please be seated."
Byleth released her hands from her face and promptly took a seat next to Claude.
Claude buried his face in his hands, as he could already feel the headache from the oncoming lecture by Seteth after class. The Duchal heir noted to himself to be more detailed with his instructions to the Deaconess to prevent this in the future. He just hoped Byleth's actions would not interfere with her interactions with the other students.
The topic at hand was one that Byleth was already familiar with. It was one that Rhea had instructed her personally on. And one that she had to put to practice.
She had no need to take notes or pay any mind to the lecture, instead, Byleth put her focus on the students.
The one named Lorenz seemed to be diligently taking notes, listening to every word coming from Seteth.
Lysithea, the girl she had met earlier, didn't seem to be paying attention to the lecture at all. She was instead reading a more advanced version of the lesson in a textbook meant for scholars.
The girl next to her, Hilda, seemed not so present in the situation as well. More focused on her nails, and coming up with fashion illustrations.
Marianne, while diligent with her notes, whenever she had a question would sheepishly raise her hand, and speak in a voice in which Seteth had to move towards her and ask her first hand. A girl with orange hair, named Leonie, would see her struggling, raise her hand, and ask the questions Marianne was too nervous to ask.
Leonie appeared to be spread thin, taking too many responsibilities on herself at once. On the one hand, she is taking notes for herself, and focusing on the lecture, on the other she seemed to be testing the strength of the string on her bow, and sharpening her dagger, to Seteth's chagrin.
Ignatz appeared to be taking notes but in the peculiar form of quick sketches rather than sentences. And if he had written sentences he would draw certain shapes next to them as a form of organization.
Raphael, while trying to take notes, appeared to be struggling. Torn between taking notes and paying attention to the lecture. One part raising his hand, one part quickly trying to catch up and taking notes. It almost seemed smoke was coming out of his ears with the current pace of the class.
Byleth was supposed to be an observer for this experiment, however, Raphael's struggle seemed to bother her somewhat, "…Would you like to have assistance?"
"Huh?"
"This lecture appears to be difficult for you. Would you like to have some assistance?"
Raphael was left scratching his head "Really? How can you tell?"
"Trust me, buddy, it isn't that hard." Claude chimed in.
Byleth rose from her seat and sat next to the hulking mass, "How can I help-Raphael? Is it?"
"Well uh I tried to understand how the first problem was done but the teacher keeps going to the next one, and the next and I end up not understanding any of it."
"Is this the problem you're struggling with?" The deaconess gestured towards one of the written equations.
"Yea-but the teacher is already so far along?"
"It does not matter. What matters is that you actually comprehend the process at hand. I will address this with your instructor after class to apply adjustments to your homework so you can better apply what you just learned."
"Huh. Ok!"
"When you're done helping Raph out, could you come by and help me understand this problem?" Leonie's voice peeked through from the back
"After I am done helping Raphael, yes-"
Lysithea tapped into Byleth's shoulder, getting her attention "While for the most part, I understand the advanced texts given, there was some terminology in the book that was confusing. When you have the time could you help clarify these terms?"
Seteth seeing the deaconess being jumped by the other students cleared his throat to get the students attention "Please do not forget I am the instructor here, and I am fully capable of assisting you all as well. The deaconess is our guest."
"I do not mind Seteth. I could stay after class if needed. I have finished my work for the day."
"But the experiment?"
"Helping the students could provide beneficial results."
"Very well," Seteth said in a deep sigh.
Claude leaned on the brick wall outside the Golden Deer classroom, paying attention to the clock on the wall. 'Whatever Byleth is teaching there, she is doing a thorough job of it.'
Claude's ears perked up as he heard the hinges of the door open, seeing an exodus of students leaving, then Byleth her brisk pace unbroken, "Well if it isn't the Professor! How did the lesson go? Hopefully, my classmates weren't too much trouble for you?" Claude joked as he jogged up to the Deaconess.
"It wasn't much trouble. They were receptive to the material, just needed more in-depth instruction"
"Now lies the bigger question. During today's observations did you find the answers you were looking for?" Claude's tone quickly changed.
Byleth froze, her hand came up to her chin deep in reflection, "Today proved…interesting. With me partaking in strange behavior seeking you out. Then the initial start of the experiment was initiated by a curiosity that I chose to indulge in. Then that indulgent task spurred another task that had nothing to do with the other"
Claude gave a sly grin "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"
"Unsure. This uncommon behavior that I exhibited has yet to be seen as beneficial or harmful. Further evidence is needed."
"I got an idea how to further your research, Deaconess."
Byleth cocked her head in interest, "And what is the idea you propose Riegan?"
"You could join us for the mock battle with the other classes next week? Gather the evidence you need."
Byleth closed her eyes, fingers rubbing against her chin as she was contemplating the idea. Various outcomes bounced around her head. Today she exhibited unexpected actions and behavior and felt unusual compulsions. She needed to understand this, and in order to receive such understanding, it was something she needed to partake more of.
Opening her eyes she reached a conclusion, "Very well, Claude. I shall join you and your class for this mock battle."
The Duchal heir's sly grin turned into a genuine smile `This is going better than what I thought!'
