Leonie had just made it out of the hellscape as riders approached over the small hill the camp had been set up on. Even from her distance, she recognized Felix and Shamir on horseback.

Shamir spurred her horse forward, reaching out a hand to Leonie. She grabbed it and was hoisted into the saddle, the horse not breaking speed.

"We thought you were dead!" Shamir shouted over the wind.

"Not yet!" Leonie replied, holding onto Shamir's waist. "How are things going out there?"

"See for yourself!" Shamir called back with a laugh.

They arrived at the edge of the hill and overlooked the battlefield. Gloucester forces were fleeing with the refugee army chasing them off.

Felix took one look at her and actually grinned. He raised his sword in the air and shouted in triumph. Those closest heard, and echoed. It spread like a wave, more and more taking it up. Invigorated upon seeing their leader safe, they fought even harder against the stragglers who hadn't quite given up yet.

"How did you do this?" Leonie asked over the battlecries. "There was no way we could win. What did you say to them?"

"I didn't say anything," Shamir answered, nearly shouting over the noise. "He's the one who gave a speech after you disappeared."

She was pointing to Felix, who rode his horse down the hill to rejoin the fray. Soldiers rallied around him like a beacon of hope.

"Felix?" she said, astounded.

"I know, right?" Shamir laughed. "Kid's got more charisma than he lets on. Even I was ready to ride to my death for your sake after he was done. Whipped us all up into a frenzy."

"Goddess," Leonie breathed. "Then…them shouting my name?"

"His idea too," Shamir said. She glanced back at where the camp had stood. "Was this your doing?"

"In a manner of speaking," Leonie admitted. "I'll tell you what happened later."

"I'll hold you to that," Shamir said. "Let's get you to Ferdinand. Man's been beside himself with worry for you."

Leonie nodded and Shamir's horse ran down the hill much like Felix's. As she passed the army, that cheer reignited. Their cry for victory did not go unheard. She'd hear it in her memories until her dying day. Leonie smiled and raised a fist in the air.

Their shouts grew all the louder.

Lysithea could hear the battle as she rode south.

So destroying the camp had worked. Good, Lysithea'd been worried that maybe she'd not done enough. But Leonie had made it this far, she'd continue making it further.

Her horse rode hard, still terrified of the flame it'd witnessed. It benefitted her, she needed to make it to Enbarr as quick as she could. The fewer stops she made, the less of a chance that her desertion and betrayal made it to Edelgard.

A stop in Merceus, and that'd be it. Caspar would welcome her, she hoped.

"Goddess," she breathed, realizing what that meant. She had to stop at Merceus. Caspar…Lin had been his best friend. He needed to know what Edelgard had done.

El…

No, not El. No nicknames, not anymore. Edelgard, she amended.

Thoughts bubbled to the surface of her mind as she traveled, memories she'd dismissed as innocuous until now. One rose above the rest.

"The Agarthans have their uses," Edelgard had said. "I'll destroy them after, but for now I can use them."

Use them? Lysithea scoffed. Edelgard wasn't on the clock like she was. Her life wasn't substantially reduced by nature of their experiments. No, she'd gotten the power without that cost. And even if she didn't have the same shortened life, they tortured her. They experimented on her. How could she accept that?

Edelgard had promised they'd find a way to help Lysithea. But if there were plans for that, Lysithea had never seen hide nor hair of them. Hanneman, when he'd found out, had jumped into helping her without a second thought. He promised her that if it was within his ability, he'd save her.

Agarthans were the enemy. She would not hide that opinion any longer. If Edelgard was willing to work with the people that had taken Lysithea's future away from her, then blame lay at her feet too.

And my own, Lysithea thought. Blame for working with her for so long. Blame for loving her.

Too much. She pushed those thoughts from her mind. Everything was so raw, she needed time, some distance. Another memory took its place.

She and Linhardt, having their daily tea for what would be the last time before he died. He'd been reticent, acting strange. Lysithea hadn't pushed him on it, not even when he'd asked if she would help him. No context, just the request.

"Sure," she'd said. "El and I would help with anything. What do you need?"

He'd clammed up after that, making some poor excuse about homework help. As if he needed that. She'd wondered why he'd acted like that.

It was because he was scared, she could see now. Oh, how it made sense. Scared that Edelgard was behind something. And she'd mentioned her name without thought. Linhardt didn't think he could trust her because of it.

"Oh, Lin," she whispered, crying. "I wasn't there when you needed me. Forgive me."

He'd confronted Monica alone, she suspected, without help or backup. All because she was too drawn in by the future Emperor.

"No more," she growled. Magic leapt to her fingertips subconsciously. If Edelgard's answers didn't satisfy, she'd raze what she'd wrought to the ground. She'd kill Hubert and anyone who got in her way. Then, the Agarthans.

Lysithea's eyes steeled and she cracked the reins. She'd make it to Enbarr, no matter what. And she'd bring the full anger of the Eternal Flames with her.

They returned to Derdriu several days later and received cheers.

There had been no fanfare when they left, but now the citizens were out in force, celebrating the returning heroes.

Leonie and Felix rode at the front, leading the people. Even he waved at the denizens as they cheered.

"You're awfully happy," Leonie remarked.

He nodded. "It's rare a battle actually makes a difference. Most battles in a war just change the theater of war itself. This one? Now these people have a true home. For the most part, no one will shun them after this."

"You're right," Leonie said, smiling. "I don't think the refugees will be relegated to camps much longer."

"Claude will be happy," Felix said. He slid his gaze to her. "He's all for breaking down borders."

It didn't surprise her that he'd figured it out. Hell, maybe Ferdinand or Shamir had trusted him enough to clue him in. It didn't matter to her, she'd have done the same. "You're not wrong. This will go a long way to breaking down animosity between nations. Especially with the war going on."

"You did good work here," Felix complimented.

"We did," she corrected. "So, think you'll stick around for a bit?"

He shook his head. "No, as soon as I collect some things from Riegan Manor, I'm riding north. I don't regret my time here, but I'm needed there."

"You're always welcome here," Leonie said. "And hopefully we'll see you ride south?"

"If Faerghus comes back under our control, I suspect we'll make our way to Enbarr," Felix promised. "At least, I will. This war isn't over until Edelgard is dealt with."

"I'll look forward to the day we can fight side by side again," Leonie said.

The rounded a corner on the main street through Derdriu. Riegan Manor wasn't far ahead. "You and me both," he said. "I do have a question, though."

"Go on."

"Lysithea. She really helped you escape?"

"Yes," Leonie said. "I wouldn't lie about that."

"It's not that," Felix said, trying to find the words. "It just surprises me. I didn't know her well, so I can accept it. But you should talk to Ferdinand about it, he seemed thrown off."

"I will," she said.

"Given your penchant for undercutting your own achievements," Felix said with a bit of snark, "I'm sure you helped change her mind more than your story gave you credit."

She blushed and he nodded. "Thought so. So, what's next for you all?"

"Riding south," Leonie said, happy to move to a new topic. "There's many battles to go. We'll wrap up some things here, then head out."

"And you too?" Felix raised an eyebrow. "Thought you'd stay behind to watch over Derdriu."

"I'm still figuring that out," Leonie admitted. "I should stay, but I also know I could help at the front."

Felix nodded. "Whatever you decide, I think it'll be the right decision."

"Thank you, Felix."

She collapsed into her typical chair in the war room, utterly exhausted. "Goddess, I've never felt so happy to be home."

Balthus, who had made it back before the other two, laughed. "I think what you need is a good nap in a proper bed."

"Mmm," she hummed, eyes half closed. "That does sound nice."

"If you want, I'll cover for you," he offered. "Sneak away, I'll make up some excuse for Shamir and Ferdie. Not like they'd object, though."

"Ha, Ferdie." She smiled. "He'll love that."

"Hey, we all fought and nearly died together. I'll call him Ferdie," joked Balthus.

Leonie laughed. "You'll get on well with Dorothea if you ever meet her." For some reason, that reminded her of what she wanted to ask him. "Hey, Balthus, why didn't you tell us about Judith?"

"Ah," he said, deflating. "Right, I figured you'd ask. I don't really have a good answer."

"That's alright," she encouraged. "I'd still hear it."

He grimaced. "It's just…still new for me. Haven't really accepted it's real."

"You knew her well?"

"Not really?" He shrugged. "I mean, as a kid I had a crush on her. And we all really respected her. Hell, you don't need me to tell you that. She was the Hero of Daphnel. Feels weird to say she's dead. Felt like that woman would tell death to fuck right off instead of giving in."

"That makes sense," Leonie said. "You don't have to tell me more, if you don't want to."

He smiled and thanked her. The two of them settled into a comfortable silence for a moment before Leonie accidentally drifted off to sleep.

Balthus moved the meeting to elsewhere, giving her some reprieve.

"I'll admit, this is unexpected."

Balthus sighed, sitting in the same seat he'd sat in the last time they'd done this. "Hello, Trevor."

Trevor von Albrecht took the seat on the balcony that Leonie had occupied before. He raised an eyebrow. "I'll admit, you returning so soon to here has me curious. I thought I was pretty clear the last time where we stood."

Balthus nodded, holding his feelings at bay. "You did. But I'm not here as your brother. I'm here on Alliance business."

"Oh?" Trevor leaned forward, brow furrowed. "Consider me doubly curious. Leonie is a smart woman, smart enough to not send you back here when it comes to Alliance business."

"I'm not here on behalf of her." Balthus winced. "Okay, in a way, I am."

His brother sighed. "Well, get on with it. I've plenty to do."

"We're preparing to ride south," Balthus explained. "With the Gloucesters dealt with, there's no reason for so many of us to stay here. Leonie is planning to stay here in Derdriu to watch over it, but we need her at the front."

Trevor frowned. "Why?"

Balthus stopped. "Why what?"

"Why do you need her? Pardon the callous assessment of your friend, but she's no fighter. She's smart and a good leader, but that better serves the Alliance here than on the front." Trevor drummed his fingers on the table as he looked out to the ocean. "She knows this. Why should she go south?"

"Because she managed to convince Lysithea von Gloucester to stand down."

Trevor snapped to attention. "I beg your pardon?"

He didn't smile, even though he wanted to. That would set Trevor off. "Leonie convinced Lysithea to change sides. She was the reason we won."

"That wasn't in the report I was sent," Trevor murmured, shocked.

"I know." Balthus sighed. "I'm not exactly following the rules by telling you this. But you should know."

"That she survived?"

"That we're on the same side now."

"I…" A flicker of surprise passed through his voice. "I suppose that is true, in a way, then."

Balthus held his hands in the air in surrender. "I'm not here to convince you to side with us militarily. I just came to ask that you play steward of Derdriu until Claude or Leonie returns."

"To guard it in the unlikely case the Empire attacks?" Trevor guessed. "Which you're assuming I'll be on board for since…?"

"Since the Empire has a long history of mistreating its vassal states," Balthus finished. "Brigid or the Kingdom, for example. Both under occupation and actively fighting the citizenry. Or even domestically, like Hrym. I don't think I need to convince you that the Alliance would likely go the same way, which would put your people in danger. People you've gone great strides to protect."

Trevor laughed and it was the kindest sound Balthus had heard from his mouth since before he left Albrecht. "You did you research, I can see."

"Ferdinand helped," Balthus admitted.

"I approve," he said. "You're right, I would oppose Empire occupation, especially since we don't have Leander's political savvy." Trevor folded his hands and leaned back in his chair. "But you still haven't answered my question. Why is Leonie needed at the front?"

Balthus bit his lip. "Because…I think she has the right mentality for it."

"Less vague, kindly."

He tried to formulate a proper response. "Well…she told me she had a chance to kill Lysithea. But she didn't. Leonie would rather spare a life than take one. I think we need that kind of person fighting a war."

Trevor gave him a long look. "You've certainly found your voice this time we're speaking." There was a note of respect, though it was fleeting.

"Pardon?" Balthus asked, confused.

"Nothing," Trevor waved off. "I will do this for the Alliance provided," he paused for emphasis, "that we are not going to be dragged into this war. I will play guard dog, but I will not go further. Consider that my final decision."

"Thank you, Trevor," Balthus said.

"Yeah," he said. "Is there anything else?" The way he asked, it was as if he expected something else.

And he'd be right. "Trev…" Balthus trailed off.

Trevor waited patiently.

"I'll do my best to be better," Balthus promised. "Someday, I want to earn your respect back and maybe, if I'm lucky, have you call me brother again."

Lord Albrecht said nothing for a time. Then, "Pass a message onto Leonie for me, will you?" When Balthus nodded, Trevor said, "Tell her she's having a good impact on you and has my thanks."

"I will," whispered Balthus.

Trevor nodded and stood. "Be on your way, then. I hope if you darken my door again, you'll bring good news." He started walking away.

"Thank you," Balthus said, bowing his head. And he too, made his way.

Until next time, brother.

"I can bend again!" Ferdinand celebrated, feeling his abdomen.

Shamir whacked him in the stomach and he grunted. "Don't get cocky, Ferdie."

"Goddess," he groaned. "Why must everyone call me that?"

"Glad that was your problem with that and not me hitting you." Shamir laughed.

Some wealthy people of Derdriu had sent healers to tend to the returning heroes. The pessimist in Shamir wanted to be annoyed that they hadn't helped in the battle itself, but seeing Ferdinand nearly recovered put it out of her mind.

Shamir sat and reclined on Claude's bed as Ferdinand looked out the window, rubbing his stomach tenderly. "You heading south too?" she asked.

He nodded, watching the stars. "I want to return to Claude, Lorenz, and the rest. And…well, I hope I run into Lysithea."

"Got something you want to say to her?"

"I don't know," he admitted. "Hopefully by time I see her, I'll have decided what it is I need to say."

"Good," Shamir said, "then in the meantime, you can help me figure out what the hell to say to Catherine."

Ferdinand laughed. "May I be blunt, Shamir?"

"Go for it, Ferdie." She wore a shit-eating grin.

He rolled his eyes. "Right. Well, Shamir, you're not the same person from five years ago. I mean, look at you. The woman who claimed 'mercenary' whenever motivation was brought up just fought a battle for free. You've got friends, people who care about you. And you reciprocate it. That's not the Shamir I used to know."

"That's a hell of a backhanded compliment," Shamir deadpanned.

"You know what I mean." Ferdinand sat on the edge of the bed. "Point is, I don't think you're the person that would run away any longer. You had every opportunity, and you didn't."

Shamir said nothing.

"If Catherine can't see that, then she doesn't deserve you," Ferdinand encouraged. "Everyone deserves a second chance, if they've changed." He paused. "And Catherine's changed a lot too."

"Thanks for the pep talk, Ferdinand," Shamir muttered sincerely.

"It might be messy, but I think you two were happy when you were together. And apart, each of you have seemed so sad," Ferdinand continued.

"Okay," Shamir interrupted, "that's enough of the emotional analysis on me. This stops now or else I'll get on your case about Lorenz."

Ferdinand yelped and jumped from the bed. "That won't be necessary."

Shamir chuckled. "Good. So it's me, you, and Balthus?"

"And Leonie, if Balthus can convince her," Ferdinand said.

She snorted. "I'm sure he'll give that his all." Ferdinand looked at her, confused, but she waved it off. "Tomorrow, you think?"

"Tomorrow," he agreed. "Can't keep our friends waiting, right?"

Shamir nodded with a smile. "Works for me." She glanced at the wall. "Hey, we ought to bring that, right?"

Ferdinand turned to where she looked and sighed. "Of course he would forget that, with news of her being alive."

"It's in character, when it comes to anything having to do with her," Shamir grinned, flopping off the bed and removing Failnaught from the wall. "Good thing he's got you to wipe his ass."

Ferdinand squawked in protest and Shamir just laughed. Goddess, she hadn't laughed so often in a long, long time.

He caught her outside her room as the bells rang midnight in the city.

Leonie was hallway inside her room when she noticed him. "Oh, hello, Balthus."

"Hey!" he said jovially. "I've got news."

"C'mon in," Leonie invited. Her room was nothing to write home about. It had a bed and a dresser, each ordinary. There was a small window that looked out into the gardens, which was her favorite part.

"Huh," he muttered.

"What?" she probed, sitting down on her bed.

"Doesn't seem like the kinda room for the Hero of Derdriu," Balthus observed.

Leonie groaned. "Please don't tell me that's what they're calling me."

He laughed in his usual uproarious way. "Sure is. Dunno if it'll stick outside of the refugee community here, but they're loving it. Never mind that you spent the whole battle tied up," he teased.

She chuckled. "See, they should give you that moniker. Those Relic gauntlets of yours were something, from the reports I read."

Balthus scratched his head sheepishly. "Eh, I guess. It was just fighting. What you did was more important."

"Sure," she said, not having the energy to fight the praise. "You said you had news?"

"Right!" he exclaimed. "I convinced Trevor to be steward of Derdriu. You can ride south with us!"

Her eyes widened. "How the hell did you manage that? Wait, when the hell did you do that?"

"While you took a nap, Ferdie helped me. We appealed to his logic," Balthus explained with a grin.

"He'll really hold Derdriu?" she asked, not daring to hope that she could keep riding with her comrades.

"He will. He gave me his word," Balthus said.

Leonie smiled. She could keep riding with her friends. There wasn't a part of her that wanted to be left behind. "Thank you, Balthus. I owe you."

"Nah," he dismissed. "Way I see it, you saved all our asses out there. This is the least I could do."

She smirked. "Then this makes us even."

"Saving you from guard duty doesn't equate to saving my life," Balthus snorted.

Leonie shook her head. "It does to me when it means I get to stay with my friends and family. Had I stayed here…" She'd regress, Leonie realized. These people dear to her heart, she needed them. "So thank you, Balthus."

He nodded, smiling. "Get some rest. Ferdie and Shamir want to leave tomorrow."

"Same goes for you."

Balthus departed and Leonie laid back on the bed, smiling.

"Riding to war with a smile," she murmured to herself. "You're a weird one, Leonie."

But she was okay with that.

Felix enjoyed traveling at night in Leicester. Travel by moonlight was near impossible in Faerghus for most of the year—it was simply too cold. Not that the days were much better, but without the sun, you were liable to freeze to your horse.

Soon he'd see Sylvain, he thought fondly. It'd been too long. His husband was probably worried sick, assuming the worst. Such a worrier. Felix would never admit that he thought it was endearing.

A flicker of light appeared through the trees ahead. He frowned. It was late to have a fire going. He let his horse carry him a bit closer before curiosity got the best of him. The only people that camped out this late into the night were bandits, per his experience.

Felix tied his horse to a tree and pulled his blade from its sheath. Slowly, he crept forward through the brush. The fire got larger as he approached and he could hear low voices, too low to make out what they were saying.

He pressed his back to a tree and stilled his breathing, trying to decipher the conversation. Two people, each speaking over the fire.

Felix's blood chilled before burning hot. He circled around the tree and approached the campfire, sword still in hand, to see familiar faces.

"Dimitri," Felix snarled.

Author Notes: And that's it for the unplanned mini-arc. I originally decided to write this arc in detail (as opposed to just flashing to POVs like usual) because the next arc of the planned story needed some more time to develop in its planning stages. I didn't want to do a haitus so I decided on this detour. Judging from the response, it was an excellent decision. Thank you all for the support, that time planning was well spent. I have some incredible threads in this story that I can't wait to share. We'll pick up with the rest of the cast next time.

Editing Notes:
8/26/2021: Minor grammatical adjustments.
2/14/2022: Minor grammatical adjustments.