Testament of Dawn

by Naryfiel Lilith

It should have been a simple year, a year like any other, but a chance encounter leads Byleth and her twin, Azrael, on a path neither ever expected to be on. A path that led to bonds stronger than fate itself. A path that would lead to a war of ideals. Fodlan's night of chaos and war ends with the dawning light, but will fate or bonds decide who bears witness? (3H Novelization)

3. Chapter 2) Links

Chapter 2) Links

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So, I am officially a professor now. Head of the Blue Lion House, and primary teacher of the First Cohort (also called the 'Leader' Cohort). Twenty-four students under my care, who I am expected to train and guide towards… their goals, I suppose. Somehow. I have no idea what or how I'm supposed to do that and, given how my first two days have gone, I knew it would be easier to convince a mountain to take a walk into the ocean.

But I was stuck. And, worse, my students were stuck with me. So, I just had to do what I could… somehow...

---

The land is broken, cracks oozing molten rock to scorch the air. Each breath is torture, even for 'me'. 'My' lungs are scorched, then healed. Scorched, then healed. 'My' skin blisters, then heals. Blisters, then heals. But 'I' keep to 'my' task, pouring 'my' blood and power into the earth. Giving it 'my' healing, and then piecing each shattered shard together into something that can support life again. Even though 'my' vision blurs and blackens… even though 'I' can no longer see… no, just a little more… just a little more… please, body, just a little… just a little…

"Mother!" As 'I' collapse, one of 'my' children catches me. 'My' child of flame, who can endure even this wretched heat… "Mother, it's enough. It's enough. This land won't kill humans, even if it can't support them. You need to rest!" 'I' don't want to. 'I' want to finish, since it is 'my' fault that the land is broken. "You did wonderfully, Mother, so rest and let us watch over them in your stead…" But 'I' cannot keep 'my' eyes open any longer… so, 'I' fall asleep… " Rest, and recover, Mother. We'll keep them safe."

Sleep is different for 'me'. 'My' body takes one form, but 'my' spirit takes another. 'My' body rests in one world, and 'my' spirit rests in another. It is just how 'I' am, though 'my' children are different. But it means that though 'I' cannot speak, 'I' can still hear. And oh, how 'I' love the things 'I' hear while 'I' rest. Words of affection, happy news, sad occurrences, stories of how the world is thriving again… anything and everything, 'my' children tell me and 'I' cherish every story.

"I fear I won't be able to visit as much, Mother." It is a bit sad to hear that from 'my' child of earth, but 'I' cannot be truly upset. "I… I found someone I love, and we decided, together, to live on the coast. But I promise I'll still visit. And I'll be sure to bring Iseult, and maybe… maybe even our child, if we are so blessed." Because 'my' child is happy, and how can a mother not be happy when her child is happy? "I love you very much, Mother. When I next see you, I'll have many stories and fables to tell you. I promise."

'I' sleep for a long time. Civilizations rise and fall and the seasons pass. Battles rage and ebb. 'I' hear it all, sense it all, and smile in my slumber. But one day, there is a strange visitor. Not one of 'my' children, nor one of 'my' children's children. A stranger who walks with purpose, yet trepidation. They approach… they stare… and then they plunge a dagger into 'my' chest. The pain spikes and twists through 'me', 'my' spirit screaming even as 'my' body dies without a fuss. But it is still 'me', so 'I' feel the blood gush as the stranger carves 'my' chest open and tears out 'my' heart. Feel 'my' skin pulled back to bare 'my' bones. Feel the jerking sawing of the blade as it cuts into 'my' spine and rips it out… Pain and pain and pain as 'I' am taken apart, piece by piece, bone by bone. Until the stranger decides they are done and carry out the parts they have stolen, leaving the rest of 'me' to rot.

"No!" "Run!" "Stop this!" The stranger returns later, much later, but not alone. They come with companions, to assist him in the fight. No, the slaughter. 'My' bones, 'my' heart… with 'my' body dead, 'I' can no longer see. But 'I' can hear. 'I' can sense. So, 'I' know what this stranger has done to 'me'. Stealing 'my' heart and 'my' bones, broken and forged into a weapon… and now they use 'me' to massacre 'my' children. 'My' eldests, who fall desperately trying to buy time… the youngest, the children of 'my' children who 'I' never met… no matter the age, no matter the screams… 'I' am drenched in the blood of 'my' family…!

Stop, stop! Stop this! If you wanted 'my' power, 'I' would have given it! Why did you steal it?! Why?! 'I' can't take this! 'I' can't bear this! 'I'... 'I'...!

---

I woke all at once, with a scream lodged in my throat. I coughed and choked, rolling over onto my side as I tried to hack it up, but all that accomplished was me gasping for air. Reeling over… whatever that had been. And what had it been? It had been years since I had a 'new' dream and never had I dreamt of such a… a slaughter. Worse, it had been a slaughter I more sensed and heard than saw. I could still feel the blood streaming down my neck and back, filling my lungs to drown out my screams… the feeling of ribbons of flesh sliding and sticking to my skin and bones…

As I struggled to calm down, I distantly sensed Azrael's panic, and did my best to 'reassure' him. I was fine. Just a nightmare. Nothing new, except the nightmare itself. Nothing new. But that didn't matter to Azrael, of course. I was scared and I was in pain, and that was that. I knew he was already on his way to my room, probably with a change of clothes to simply stay with me. When my nightmares caused terror like this, he never left me alone. He refused, no matter how many times I tried to tell him otherwise. I did have to wonder why he was already awake, but I was sure he'd complain about it. If only to distract me.

With a soft groan, I… attempted to push myself out of bed so that I could greet him. Instead, I discovered that for the first time in a while, I'd been tossing and turning while I slept. Meaning I was very, very tangled in the blankets and, thus, only succeeded in falling off the bed, shoulder first. Hand-numbing pain… brief as it was, Azrael was going to panic even more when he sensed that…

["Why are you awake…?"] Sothis's sleepy voice and yawn echoed through my head. I wondered what 'woke' her. ["You should be asleep."]

"You have access to my memories, so you figure it out," I grumbled, feeling grouchy thanks to the pain. I shouldn't take it out on her, but I was a little busy trying to figure out how I managed to tie the blanket around my ankle. It was a pretty solid knot too! "Which I should be more creeped out by, but for some reason, I'm not."

["Probably because it's not much stranger than having someone living in your heart and you've seen me in your dreams all your life."] There was a pause as she did, in fact, look through my memories. Or, in this case, my dreams. ["I… what sort of nightmare was that?!"]

"I have no idea." Finally, I got the blanket off one ankle, and struggled to free my other leg. I was tempted just to burn it. I only didn't because I didn't want to waste a blanket. "They've never been like that. I'm normally an observer, for one thing."

["Mmm… that is likely because you dream of the past. You being an observer, I mean. Of course, I doubt that is very comforting." Especially since that meant that slaughter really did happen. ["Yes, indeed. But it feels 'old'. I don't know why I know this, but that event happened a long time ago."]

"But similar events happen in modern times."

["This is true. Mayhaps meeting with a survivor of such a genocide prompted the dream in the first place? Though, that wouldn't explain the sudden perspective change."] I 'felt' Sothis stroke my head, even though I couldn't see her. ["For now, I suggest you head outside. The fresh air will do you some good. Nothing like the wind to remind you of reality."]

"I'm a little stuck."

["That blanket really doesn't want to let go of you, huh? Move your hands a moment to let me look."]

Thanks to Sothis's help, I was able to extricate myself from the blankets before long. I was tempted to simply try and get some work done, but Sothis nagged me until I stepped outside. And I did have to admit she was right. The cold wind worked well to remind me that I was awake, mostly because it nearly froze my skin off. So, I almost ducked right back into my surprisingly cozy room to get away from the cold, but a song stopped me. It was very faint, but very pretty as well. I followed it without thinking, mostly because I just… really liked music. I ended up following it to the second level of the dorms, and stopped near one of the pillars when I saw who the singer was: Bernadetta. She was singing while she sewed something, using only the moon's light to see her stitches. Unlike back at the classroom, or during the spar, she looked rather peaceful, even content.

At least, until she saw me. Then she stiffened like a rabbit in front of a hawk. "Professor?" she called uncertainly. Not sure what to do, I waved. "Um… I was… uh… was… um... justheadingbacktomyroombye!" I barely heard any of what she said before she bolted back into her room and shut the door.

I blinked once. Blinked twice. Debated on what to do. But, finally, I approached her door and gently knocked on it. "Bernadetta?" I called. I heard her squeak behind the door. "I'm sorry I frightened you." That seemed like the best thing to say.

"N-no, you didn't do anything… um…!" Even with the door muffling her voice, I heard the panic in it. "I just… um… I just don't… uh… like to come out if I don't have to."

"Yes, Edelgard mentioned that." After a moment, I decided to sit by the door, resting my back against it. I chose to not mention how she had seemed just fine outside of her room before being spotted. "You have a lovely singing voice."

"Oh… er… thank you? I mean… I'm really not that good and I know I should've been quiet and… I'm really, really sorry… stupid Bernie..."

"You're fine." I kept my voice as even as possible, which thankfully wasn't hard for me. I only hoped it would ease her rattled nerves. "You're not why I'm awake. I just had a nightmare, so I stepped out for fresh air."

"Oh, I… I see." There was a long pause. "Um…"

"Bernadetta?" There was a squeak, but thankfully, no long stream of apologies. "You have difficulties talking to people." Obviously. "So, what do you want to do if you have a question for me?"

"Huh?"

"You have difficulties talking to people, and I know many find me intimidating." The 'Ashen Demon'... the monster who killed without remorse… a living ghost, a fairy of old… that was what people saw in me. I knew that very well. "But I am supposed to be teaching you. So, how should we go about that?"

"Um…" Another long pause. "I suppose… I mean… I'm okay with talking through doors? I know it's weird, I'm sorry, but…"

"Okay, I'll answer your questions like this. And perhaps, if you have one during class, you write it down and give the paper to me? Or have one of the others give it to me?" That way, she wouldn't have to directly interact with me, if she couldn't handle it. "Both will be harder for the more practical aspects of lessons, but will you be better if I stand behind you?"

"I… think that'll be okay? We… we can try that at least!" She sounded happy for a split-second. Then she was right back to anxious. "But, uh… Professor?"

"Hmm?"

"...Most people tell me things like 'you have to talk to people' and 'you can't just hide in your room'." Well, both were true. I couldn't deny that. "So, why…?" But with that said…

"Bernadetta, while you do have to do those things, it's not something you can overcome in a single day." Because based on how she'd hid in the classroom, and how she hid now? I was certain it wasn't something as simple as 'oh, she is just a little shy' or 'she just hates people'. It was more complex. And there was no 'simple' solution for complex things. "The cure for hypothermia isn't tossing someone into a fire, just as you don't toss someone covered in burns into a river. You have go slow, and always watch the pace to make sure you're actually helping, not hurting." I rested my head against the door and looked up at the sky. It was obscured by the overhang, but I saw enough of the stars to make me smile. I liked stars. I liked how they were constant lights in the dark. "Some days, you're able to wake up, jump out of bed, and feel like you can save the world. Other days, it's a miracle if you can even roll out from under your blankets. Both are fine. That's just life." I knew Dad had rough days. I definitely knew I had them. Hell, even Azrael did, once in a blue moon. "All I ask, Bernadetta, is that you try, and keep trying."

"I…" Silence, but this time it felt different. For one thing, I thought I heard sniffling. "Okay. I can do that. I think. Thank you." I could only hope I didn't make things worse. "Um… say, since you're here, can I ask a question? Wait, hold on, never mind. How would I even think of one?"

"I believe you just asked two."

"Oh! You're right!" She laughed a little. It was watery, but it sounded genuine enough. "In that case… um… can I fight with bows?"

"You certainly may." In fact, I had her down for that. And animals. Specifically horses. "You seem to have a background in them already."

"Yeah, just a little. I like how it keeps me away from people. Plus, if I get better, then all will know me as Bernie the Sniper!" Her excitement made the door vibrate, though I quickly heard her scramble on the other side. "Er…"

"Bernie the Sniper has a very nice ring to it." Best to simply go along with it. "I also have you down for horse lessons."

"Horses?!" She definitely squeaked then. Very loudly. I had to check her neighbors' doors to make sure they didn't wake up. "But they're… um… big."

"They are. Meaning that if you're outside, and need to hide, you can easily hide behind them. While still doing your lessons." Not to mention that I had long heard that people with anxiety often found comfort and calm with animals. "And when you're riding, if things get too much, you can always gallop away. Again, while still practicing."

"...Oh." Once again, a long pause. "Will I have to fight on one?"

"That is your choice, and yours alone. I will not force anyone on a mount if they don't want to, even if I have them learn horsemanship. I think the skills you learn will be helpful regardless of the combat viability."

"I see…" Thoughtful, but surprised. I'd surprised her. "My choice… my choice…"

"That's right. And if you want me to listen to you, for whatever reason, I'm always willing to listen." Listening, at least, was something I knew I could do. Though I was sure she was very tired of me bothering her by now. Thankfully, I had the perfect excuse to leave. I sensed Azrael was near. "I'll leave you be, Bernadetta. Try to get some sleep?"

"I will. Thank you, Professor!"

"Pleasant dreams." I stood up slowly, stretching a little, before I headed down the stairs to the lowest level of the dorms, just as Azrael rounded the corner. "Hey."

"Was really confused when I sensed you outside," Azrael yawned, rubbing his eyes. As I expected, he had a change of clothes draped over his arm. "Wind is normally my thing."

"Cold, however, is splendid for ensuring you're awake," I pointed out. He nodded in agreement and yawned again. "Speaking of awake, why are you?"

"Some loud idiots returned from a night of drinking laughing and screaming. I woke up thinking we were under attack…" He growled some curses while we climbed the stairs back up to the second level of the dorms and I wondered if one of the returning knights had been Catherine. Probably not. I had a feeling she'd at least try to keep quiet when returning. "I almost blasted my door open when I got my bearings. Then, as I was falling asleep, I sensed your fear." He brushed a hand over my cheek, and then stroked my hair. "What happened?"

"Nightmare. One that was… worse than usual." I didn't want to speak more about it for now, but thankfully, Azrael sensed that and, instead, gently bumped his head against mine. Then he helped me up the stairs to the first level of the dorms. "You probably don't need the tea, but I will, so I'm going to make some."

"Tea actually sounds nice, even if I don't need it to sleep." To emphasize his words, he yawned again. But then he made a confused noise. "Hey, isn't that little miss adorable?"

"Hmm?" It took me a moment, but I realized that was his current nickname for Flayn. And he was right, Flayn was right in front of my door. "Flayn?"

"Oh!" Flayn gasped and whirled before laughing and smiling sheepishly. "Um… hello? Sorry to… um…" she mumbled, fiddling with one of her hair clasps. "It's just… the tea was really nice and I slept better than I have in a long while, and you said I could come by again, but if you're busy…"

"You're in luck, because Byleth was just about to make some for me," Azrael teased, smiling at her. Flayn smiled back in relief, though she quickly averted her gaze. I wondered why. I didn't think Azrael looked unusual or anything? No wounds on his torso, or stains on his sleeping pants. I suppose he could have thrown on a shirt, and maybe that was it since she had asked me about my sleeping shirt last time, but I didn't see much of a point. Azrael always slept shirtless. Oh, but maybe it was the scars? "What was your name again, by the way? I'm terrible with names."

"It is Flayn." She bowed a little, still keeping her gaze down. "If you two truly do not mind…"

"It's not anymore work to make three cups. Might be awkward if Byleth doesn't have three cups, but I think Mom's set had four?" He tilted his head towards me, and I nodded to confirm the words. "So, why don't we head inside? It's nippy."

I almost followed Azrael and Flayn into my room, but decided to stay out just a little longer. I wanted just a little more reassurance that I was awake, and that the nightmare was gone. So, I walked up the path a little, closer to the training grounds, just for a little bit more wind (and cold). That was when I saw that there was one other person awake: Claude. He was in front of the strange building between the training grounds and the dorms, leaning against the small wall that kept people from accidentally stepping off, looking up at the stars. He was clearly dressed for sleep; he even had his braid undone.

"Claude?" I called. He started, blinked a few times, and then looked down. "Is everything okay?"

"Hmm? Yeah, Teach, everything is fine," he answered after a moment. He smiled down at me, but it was a sadder, more tired smile than his usual fake one. "Just couldn't sleep, so I thought I'd stargaze a little."

"Is that so?" Somehow, I thought there was something a little more to it. I wasn't sure why. Just a feeling.

"Okay, and I thought I'd prowl around the sauna here to see if I could figure out what the hell the knights did to break it." He grinned and my thoughts turned from 'I think he is hiding something' to 'we have a sauna' to 'how does someone break a sauna?'.Then I remembered that Flayn had already told me that. It had been a long few days. "No one knows what they did, see? But it's broken, and will probably take a couple of months to fix still! But I can't stand a good mystery being left unsolved!"

"Did you find out?"

"Sadly, not this visit. I'll have to try again." He sighed dramatically, shaking his head. "But, I suppose I should-"

"Would you like some tea?" Back to that feeling about him hiding something. But I wouldn't pry. "Azrael and Flayn are already joining me for a cup. It's a mix that helps me sleep."

"I…" He was silent for a long time, studying my expression carefully. I just held his gaze, to give him a chance to find whatever he was looking for. He probably wouldn't, since only Dad and Azrael could read my expression, but I'd make sure he had a chance. "...Sure. I think I'd like that." He winked then. "Besides, who can resist an invitation from such a lovely source?"

"Strange flattery will not get you out of work once classes resume." I turned towards my room, but waited for him to come down the stairs and join me. "This way. We can discuss your lessons, if you want, or we can listen to Flayn's gossip about the monastery."

"Both sound like fun." He grinned, and it lit up his expression much differently than the one he usually wore. "Let's start with gossip, though. Gossip always leads to laughs."

He was right. Flayn's gossip did lead to a lot of laughing. I didn't think I had ever had such a lively evening before. But, it… it wasn't bad. Strange, but not bad.

---

"Goodness, look at all these scars…" Manuela murmured as she prodded my back and stomach. She had walked up while Azrael and I were eating breakfast with Dad to tell us she needed to perform a physical on us. Standard procedure. Something about getting the 'basics' well ahead of any type of emergency. So, here we were, in her infirmary. "What sort of tyrant ruins a girl's porcelain skin?"

"Someone who was trying to kill said girl?" I answered without thinking, not sure how to react otherwise. Over Manuela's head, Azrael caught my gaze and rolled his eyes before returning to putting on his clothes. Manuela had already finished up with him. "Most mercenaries have scars?"

"That doesn't mean you shouldn't take care of your skin, Byleth. You've a few rough patches as well… I've some lotions to help with that." At this point, I was going to default to my 'smile and nod' reaction. "Good… good… no lumps or swellings that I can feel."

"What, exactly, are you feeling for?"

"Like I said, lumps or swellings. Touch is an important part of the medical process precisely because some things will be palpable. For example, some diseases will cause hepatosplenomegaly, and you'll feel often feel that."

"Hepatosplenomegaly?" I tilted my head curiously, trying to think of what that could be. "Liver? Something with the liver?"

"Good guess! And partially right." Manuela stepped away briefly to scribble something down, and picked up her stethoscope. I tensed, already knowing what was to come. "It's when the liver and spleen are swollen." She smiled at me, laughing. "I shouldn't use such terminology in everyday talk, but Sir Jeralt mentioned you read anatomy books for fun."

"They're interesting?" I ignored Azrael when he made a face. He only liked the anatomy books for killing people quicker and, even then, it was more because I preferred quick deaths. "My heartbeat is slower than normal, by the way." I felt it was only right to try and prepare her to some degree.

"It's not uncommon for athletic people to have that. Sir Jeralt's is also slow." Yeah, but Dad's was more of a 'normal' slow. Though I was surprised she got him to sit down long enough to do a physical, since he… "All he would agree to before he managed to wriggle away." Now that did sound like Dad. He had no problem with healers when he was actually injured, but he didn't like being around them when he wasn't. "Now then…" She set the stethoscope on my chest, and I closed my eyes, not wanting to see her expression. "...That's strange…" She moved it to a different part of my chest. Then she moved it to my back. "I can't…"

"You're not holding it there long enough," Azrael explained, unbothered. But of course he was. To him, my heartbeat being like this was 'normal' and he didn't care that it didn't match other people's 'normal'. "She told you it was slow." He moved to my side and ducked his head to rest it on my chest. He'd done this many times in the past, so he knew how long to wait. "It sounds normal to me. Maybe a bit faster." He straightened and absently began combing my hair with his fingers. "You have to wait at least as long as I do."

"If that is the case, then her pulse would be only around twenty beats per minute!" Manuela protested. Still, she placed her stethoscope back on my chest and waited. And waited. And waited. Until finally, she removed it. It felt like forever, but it probably hadn't even been a minute. "Ten beats in thirty seconds… twenty per minute. This is normal?"

"Yep!"

"I see…" She turned away and I finally opened my eyes. I pretended to not notice the unease on her face. But I was sure she was already thinking what everyone else did. After all, no 'human' could survive with a heartbeat as slow as mine. "I think that was the last of it."

"So, we can escape, yes?"

"After she puts her clothes back on, and you finish putting your clothes back on." When Manuela turned back to us, she was back to smiles. "I'm sure many would appreciate the view, of course, but you must be proper as a knight."

"Does that-" Azrael began to say something cutting, but I nudged his leg to get him to stop. He sulked for a half-second before shrugging. "I mean… ma'am, yes, ma'am?"

"You learn quick." She laughed, but I was sure she was just forcing it. "Speaking of quick, try to leave as quickly as you can."

"Okay?" Azrael glanced at me, and I shrugged. I had no idea. "We'll try?"

So Azrael said, but out of curiosity, we were a bit slower than we normally would be, wondering if she'd give some sort of hint to why we had to leave quickly. A date? Another appointment? There was no elaboration. She busied herself with her notes, humming while she worked, and she didn't even look up when we finished dressing and left. Of course, that was when we learned just exactly what she'd meant.

"Ah, you're finished with Manuela? Perfect!" Hanneman appeared out of nowhere, grabbed Azrael and me by the arm, and dragged us across the hall to his office. While we tried to adjust to what happened, I noticed Seteth was also in the room, looking distinctly annoyed. The papers in his hand hinted that he'd been trying to discuss something with Hanneman, before we distracted him. "While you two are here, I'd like to use this device I designed to determine whether or not the power of a crest resides within you," he explained quickly. So quickly that I thought he might've rehearsed it. "Won't hurt a bit. Promise."

"...Crest?" Azrael repeated with a frowned in confusion, desperately trying to remember what that was. In the back of my head, I heard Sothis grumble. Based on what she had seen in my memories, she wasn't very fond of 'crests' and the topic made her grumpy. "Er… those are what again? I know I've heard of it, but I'm blanking…?" I caught his attention and mouthed 'Theresa' to him. He got it then; 'Theresa' had been one of the few strangers Azrael had made sure to be nothing but kind and gentle to. "Oh, wait, the stupid things that nobles hyperfixate on to the point that they'll ruin people's lives?"

"Yes, them." Hanneman didn't so much as twitch as Azrael's description, which surprised me. I would've thought he'd be annoyed? "Power incarnate, and said to be bestowed upon humanity by the goddess many ages ago. They exist within a person, and are passed down through bloodlines." I think everyone knew that they were hereditary. "Of course, the exact method of inheritance is quite unknown. Not all children of a crest-bearer will inherit the crest, which can lead to… well, what you described." A brief shadow flitted through Hanneman's eyes, but he quickly shook his head and returned to his enthusiasm. "Regardless, however, they grant their bearers many different boons, though what boons depends heavily on the crest itself. Sadly, the true extent of the crests and their power is beyond mortal understanding. For now."

"...And you think my sister and I have crests?"

"Indeed, though I will admit it is simply a theory based on observation and the testimony of your abilities. Which is intriguing in of itself." Hanneman reached up to fiddle with his monocle, eyes unfocusing slightly as he thought. Personally, I was surprised Seteth didn't leave, because his slight frown hinted he was annoyed about something, but he remained where he was. Perhaps the papers were that important? "While not unheard of, it is quite rare for twins to bear crests."

"Why?"

"Well, there are many theories to that. The most commonly accepted reason is because the power of the crest… well, if one inherits, and not the other, than the crestless one is killed by the crest their would-be-twin possesses." How would that be confirmed? Did they do tests on stillborns or something? "In the case of both inheriting, both are killed in the womb." Again, how would they confirm this? "That's simply the most commonly accepted theory, mind, based off of limited case studies. Another theory is that it is a defense mechanism the mother's body uses to protect itself, though that in itself raises far more questions."

"Oh, well, if that's the case-Mmph!" Azrael tried to pry my hand off his mouth, but stopped and grumbled when I gave him a look. The last thing I needed was the thought that I was… I mean, both of us already knew we were why Mom was dead. We were both well aware that we killed her. We didn't need to elaborate more on that, unless Dad wanted to know. "Mmph."

"Ah, siblings." Though Hanneman smiled warmly, I noticed there was something sad to it as well. Sad, and maybe guilt. "But those are all theories that are circumstantial at best, and outright ludicrous at worst. That's a reason why we should learn all we can, but one day at a time. For the present, I would like to test my hypothesis that you both have one."

"Is this necessary?" Azrael only barely remembered to move my hand before asking. "I mean…"

"It's not, but I can tell you from experience that if you don't at least hold your arm over the device, he's going to simply follow and badger you," Seteth immediately deadpanned. Though Hanneman almost protested, he chose to be silent. In fact, he looked away sheepishly. "My suggestion is to get it over with." And then we could leave and he could get back to whatever he'd been trying to do. Made sense to me.

"Meh…" Azrael groaned. But he shrugged and held his arm over the device, uncaring one way or the other. After a moment, a very intense light traced an image over the glass. "So, what's this?"

"...That's the Crest of Seiros." Seteth frowned, and the way he knit his eyebrows together made it seem like confusion. "But that shouldn't…"

"Not just the Crest of Seiros, but at this intensity, it's the Major Crest of Seiros," Hanneman breathed, excitedly looking at the glass. Azrael glanced at me at the 'major' part, but I could only shake my head. I certainly had no idea. "Crests are divided into two categories. 'Major' and 'minor'. Major crests represent a greater inheritance of power." I supposed that made sense. "What is interesting, however, is that I believe this might be the first incidence of the Crest of Seiros manifesting outside of the Imperial family?"

"Not quite, as Rhea has it," Seteth reminded, still frowning. He looked between Azrael and me, like we had some sort of answer he was seeking. But, of course, neither of us knew what was going on. "But, it is… exceedingly rare, yes."

"Quite thrilling, really!" Hanneman was practically vibrating like a child who had only sugar for breakfast and lunch. "Ah, the lengths this could help my research… but that's for later. Byleth?" He looked at me expectantly, and I couldn't tell if his eyes glinted or sparkled. Either way, I felt like running. But since Azrael had gone along, I felt it was only fair for me to do the same. So, I held my arm out over the device and, just like before, an intense light traced an image on the glass. But this one was different. Very different. "What is this…?!" And Hanneman didn't recognize it at all. "This intensity suggests a Major, but this… it's a pattern I've never seen before! Are there still yet unknown crests?"

"Impossible." Seteth's response was immediate, and the flat tone brooked absolutely no argument. Not even Azrael was tempted to snark 'nothing is impossible'. "As you should know, Hanneman, there are crests aside from the Ten Elites and the Four Saints, whose known bloodlines have died out, but that's the extent of it." Seteth frowned at me, and instinctively, I ducked behind Azrael. Azrael immediately bristled, prepared to defend me if the need arose. "There are no 'new' crests."

"If that is the case, this must be a fragment of the crest! So powerful that my device can only detect a portion…!" Hanneman practically bounced over to his bookshelf. "Let's see… which book will be best for this sort of research…?" He ran his fingers over the books, and at any other time, I might've been tempted to look. But with Seteth staring at me with stony eyes and a blank expression? I just wanted to run. Run to Dad and have him tell me everything was safe and-

"Twins? You here?" As if my thoughts had summoned him, Dad poked his head in, and he frowned when he saw me hiding behind a rigid Azrael. "...What happened?" he asked slowly, his voice deceptively calm. But Azrael and I both knew that tone. He always spoke in that tone when he thought people might have hurt us. "What's going on?"

"Jeralt, perfect timing!" Hanneman cheered, completely oblivious to the very real danger to his safety. Seteth wasn't, though. He immediately took a couple steps back to be firmly out of the way and snuck a little closer to the door. I was surprised he'd noticed so quickly, but given what Flayn had said, perhaps it was simply him knowing how he might react. "Your twins were kind enough to let me test if they had a crest, which both of them do, so if you would-"

"You don't think it would be common knowledge if a captain of the Knights of Seiros had a crest?" Sarcasm edged Dad's words so that each one was sharper than any knife. And they were sharp enough to pierce through Hanneman's oblivious excitement. "Anyway, I have plans with my twins, so I'll be taking them now. And if I hear you've been pestering them about their crests…" Dad smiled, but it wasn't really a smile. A quirk of the lips that seemed far more like baring fangs. "Twins?"

"Coming, Papa!" Azrael replied, taking my hand and immediately following. I dug my heels at the threshold to bow and wave goodbye to Hanneman (staring in shock) and Seteth (almost looking like he was trying not to laugh) before letting myself be dragged away. "Plans?"

"I told you two that we had to go shopping," Dad reminded, slowly forcing himself to calm down. I let go of Azrael and slipped to his side to lean briefly against him. "You two weren't forced into that, were you?"

"Not really. I mean; we were asked, but I didn't see the big deal. Though apparently, Byleth and I are once again the weird ones." Azrael shrugged, unbothered as usual. "I've the… oh, what was is? Major Crest of Seiros? And Byleth has an unknown one. Major as well. Which I guess is super special awesome?"

"That so?" Dad wrapped an arm around my shoulders to hug me. "Well, isn't that interesting?"

"Again, not really. I don't get why these crests are important or anything." Azrael skipped ahead to safely gesture dramatically. And mockingly. "Oh, great and benevolent goddess, thank you for this sign of divine favor, which is somehow different from other naturally born talents, like being good at singing or talented at math! I especially love how it apparently gives me the excuse to be a completely amoral jackass who views any and all descendants as potential bargaining chips for more power, or things to be discarded! But don't you think it's oh-so-convenient that these things, which are more or less limited to the nobility, are symbols of divine favor and power and can easily serve as a justification for-"

"Okay, enough of that." Dad did have to bite back laughter, though. Sadly, I couldn't find much amusement in it. Not when I remembered all those jobs involving crests and not… not when I thought of how my crest was 'unknown'. More proof of being a monster. "I have no idea if I raised you well or not, but I certainly impressed my own beliefs on you." Which included a heavy skepticism of the Church and nobles. Our jobs as mercenaries didn't help much either, since mercenaries always saw the darker side of the world. "But you'll have to bite your tongue around here." Azrael just stuck his out in childish 'retaliation'. "If I have to duel a noble because you managed to gravely insult them, you're going to learn what it means to be 'grounded', Azrael."

Azrael playfully whined and complained, and Dad kept being sarcastic. I fretted over how Hanneman and Seteth might've taken our departure, and glanced back worriedly. Even if we were near the staircase and, thus, nowhere near Hanneman's office. But when I did, I noticed something interesting. Seteth had apparently followed us out, but he hadn't come after us. Instead, I just barely saw him stride right up to Rhea to quietly ask her something. Though the angle and distance meant I couldn't see her expression, I did notice how she curled into herself immediately, making herself 'less of a target', and giving an impression of evasiveness. Something that made Seteth frown, and hold himself a little taller, firm and determined.

What was that about?

---

The town right at the base of the monastery was a bustling place filled with laughter and gossip even in the morning. And shops. Lots of shops. Most were set up at temporary stalls, just one place of many where the merchants peddled their wares, but there were a few permanent shops set up in beautiful wooden buildings, each decorated to let a passerby know quickly what they sold. The armory had dulled weapons on display, for instance, while the apothecary had a large display of colored glass bottles set up in the window. The bakery had its doors wide open to left the sweet smell of its confections and pastries waft out to tempt hungry stomachs, while a bard played a song outside of one of the taverns. Maybe even the one Manuela had taken me. I wasn't sure.

"Huh. There's Anna over there," Dad observed, helping me navigate the crowd. I held onto his arm tightly, and worried I was hurting him, but he didn't react. "We should swing by her stall on the way back. She's always got an interesting collection of things."

"What sort of things?" Azrael asked, absently looking around. It was his first time in the town, but I knew he wasn't all that impressed with it. He rarely was. "Books? Weapons?"

"Bit of everything, and if she likes you, she has a secret stash of wares she'll sell you."

"I take it she likes you since you know that?"

"I've known her for a while, yes." He stopped us, so that some racing students could pass without running us over. "That reminds me. Byleth, Leonie is one of your students, right?"

"She is," I confirmed. When we resumed walking, I looked up at him, smiling slightly. "Apparently, she met some 'great mercenary' who inspired her to leave her village. Can't imagine who."

"Just as I can't imagine where you got your sarcasm from." Dad grinned and ruffled my hair with his free hand. "I hate to push this on you, but keep an eye on her for me, will you? She's constantly trying to prove herself, and I'm a bit worried she'll trap herself in my shadow."

"Of course. That's what a teacher is supposed to do, right? I mean… that's what you did for Azrael and me."

"Don't try to parent them. Even if I'm sure some of them have very…" There was a very long pause. Very long. "Interesting… parents."

"Let's try to figure out what curse he substituted there," Azrael joked, grinning at me. I couldn't blame him. Dad only bit back the more vicious ones. "So, let's try-"

"I highly recommend her going for bows," Dad interrupted, firmly keeping the topic in safer waters. Azrael stuck his tongue out, and I frowned slightly. "Leonie, I mean. She's good at them, and I think it'll help her stay out of my shadow. I'm afraid she might try to follow me too closely." He smiled at me, ruffling my hair again. "She's hardheaded, but she's a bright and good-hearted brat."

"Wonder if she has more or less tact than me."

"Azrael, if she had less tact than you, she'd be in the negatives."

"Exactly!"

Dad rolled his eyes and switched the subject to what sort of things we wanted in our rooms. Since the concept of 'decorating our rooms' was foreign, Azrael and I had no idea and 'conveniently misheard' Dad's questions to, instead, comment on everything around us. At least, until we passed by a shop filled with books. Filled. The display in the window showed five or six lovingly set up so that their covers and titles were easily seen, and through that window, you could see the many bookshelves stretch all the way to the ceiling and near bursting with books.

"You know there's a library, right?" Dad reminded us dryly, even as Azrael led the way inside without a single word. I, of course, dragged Dad with me. "A very extensive library? Right on the second floor of the main building? With two or three floors of books?"

"Yeah, and?" Azrael quipped, smiling wide as we stood in what had to be my favorite sort of 'forest'. Books of all topics were everywhere. "Oh, I don't know where to even start…"

"If it's arranged the same way as before, then your fiction is closer to the front." Best part of all of this was that Dad didn't even pretend to be surprised. "Nonfiction towards the back. They're arranged by topic, and then subtopic."

"I can see part of that." Azrael turned slowly to take the quiet shop in. I got on my tiptoes to try and read the section cards, while still holding on to Dad. "But still… where to start? I mean… this is just so…!"

"Well, I'll be damned. You are back, Jeralt." A laugh interrupted Azrael's attempts to try and form coherent words and the speaker was a grandmotherly sort of lady with her white hair pinned back haphazardly, like she had simply kept clipping it back when the wisps fell in her face. She had a kind smile on her face, a soft expression, and her eyes sparkled with good humor behind her glasses. "And you look like you haven't aged a damn day," she teased, laughing. Almost immediately, her attention focused on Azrael and me. "The twins sure have, though. What in the world did you feed the boy to get him to sprout up like a tree?"

"Whatever I happened to put in front of him, Miriam," Dad joked in return, now more relaxed than I'd seen since we first arrived here. Azrael and I looked at each other curiously, since we didn't recognize the name. "Still, the two are more in a mood to devour books."

"Just like Fiona, then." Some sadness flitted about her smile and eyes, but the warmth kept it at bay. "Well, that's good for me and my business! Welcome, you two. I've known this old man for… oh, longer than I'd care to admit. He'd bring your mother here on dates."

"They weren't dates." Dad rolled his eyes, but he also didn't quite look at her. A telltale sign that he was embarrassed. "She just always bought too many to carry on her own."

"And it had nothing to do with convenient excuses to spend time with her. Of course." She sighed, shaking her head in fond exasperation. "I wonder if either of you inherited his obliviousness to flirtations. I remember the girls in the market complaining that he wouldn't notice someone was flirting with him even if they snuck into his bed naked."

"Miriam, don't fill my twins' heads with wild tales."

"Even when they're true?"

"Pardon me," I interrupted hesitantly. While I normally loved hearing stories about Dad, right now, other stories took precedent. Particularly since she… "But… um… what sort of books did Mom buy?"

"Hmm? Ah, all sorts of things. I don't think she found a genre she didn't like," Miriam laughed. It was nostalgic and a little sad, but also happy. The memories had an edge, but she enjoyed remembering Mom. Just like Dad. "That said, I do remember a few of the books she talked to me about. I doubt her copies survived that fire, but why don't we see if I have a few in stock still?"

"Thank you."

Miriam did, in fact, have two of Mom's favorites in stock. I barely remembered my manners in time to keep from snatching them from her, and from there, I simply wandered the store, looking for anything and everything that caught my attention. I grabbed a couple of botany books, couple more books for magical theory, a few fiction stories, a couple of novels with interesting covers, some history books, and a few more I grabbed just for the hell of it, because the topics were intriguing. After all, if we were staying in one place for a while, then I might as well take advantage of having books. Besides, I knew Azrael was doing the same exact thing I was. The only difference was which books he grabbed.

"Never knew book hunger was hereditary, but those two clearly got Fiona's." Miriam's joking voice drifted through the shop, echoes following me while I browsed. "Seems like little Byleth is as stoic as you are, Jeralt," she teased. Bit of a surprise, since… most strangers found my apparent lack of emotions creepy, not something to tease Dad about. "Still, based on your fond smile, I'm guessing she's got some easy tells for when she's happy. Azrael sure does."

"Byleth is an open book, once you know the 'language'." Dad shrugged, but he still smiled. And Miriam was right. It was his 'I love my life' smile, his best one. "And why shouldn't I be happy? My twins are happy, and that's really all I want in the world."

"I think you managed to raise them well." Miriam's laugh had a distinctive mischief to it. Somehow. "Did those parenting books help?"

"Hush."

"So, they did? I remember you were all in a panic, rushing about-"

"Okay, enough, because I know at least one of them has to be eavesdropping by now." It was actually both of us, based on how closely I sensed Azrael. "Twins? Remember that we have to carry more things besides books. We can always come back another day." Actually, that was a good point. I could carry my chosen books well enough when no one was around, but crowds were another thing. "Hmm? Ah, Byleth, there you… oh, freaking hell, how many did you grab?!"

The answer to that question was one basket's worth, if you were careful about putting the books in. It was more restrained than Azrael, who juggled two baskets' worth. And he almost grabbed more, but Dad put a stop to that. Miriam calculated the price, gave us a discount on the promise of returning, and waved goodbye as we left, all three of us carrying a basket.

"Well, that was our first stop," Dad sighed, no doubt regretting leading us past it. I was a little sheepish, but only a little. "What's the next one?"

"Perhaps we can go to the bakery?" I suggested quietly. Dad immediately became skeptical and I frowned slightly. "You don't need to be worried, Dad."

"I distinctly remember a time where I, for reasons unknown, left you alone with what had to be half of a bakery's worth of sweets-"

"It was not that much." Still, I had to look away, embarrassed. I really loved sweets. Azrael liked them even more than me, but Dad had never left either of us alone with anything sugary after that little incident. "But it's not necessarily for me."

"She's been having tea parties in her room," Azrael explained without really looking. After all, he already had his nose in one of his new books, reading while he walked. Dad pulled him out of the way of some people before making a curious noise. "Don't ask me. I just benefited."

"They aren't tea parties," I protested, feeling a little self-conscious now. Maybe I shouldn't do this… "But I have served tea while discussing things with my students. Mostly their lesson plans."

"Flayn's visit was definitely a tea party."

"She has trouble sleeping, and I didn't expect her to actually come by again." But, since she had, and since there was a good chance my students would as well, I thought… it might be nice to… you know… have some sweets to give them. "So, Dad? May we?"

Dad pretended to put up a fight for all of a second before giving in. As I figured he would. In truth, since we didn't really deviate off the path and he didn't look like he was trying to remember where things were, I had a feeling he was taking us to a bakery anyway. It was crowded, though. Really crowded. Too crowded for me, truthfully. But Dad had anticipated that, because he showed me where I could wait while he and Azrael waited in line. It was a surprisingly quiet spot, given the number of people, and I wondered if maybe this was a designated 'waiting area' and, so, people kept it clear. Though, given how people were, it was probably just a coincidence.

"Oh, Professor?" The high, slightly breathy voice was familiar, and I turned to see it was because it was Mercedes, who was carrying a large basket filled to the brim with ingredients. Beside her, carrying a smaller basket that was equally full, was Annette. "What a surprise!" Mercedes continued, smiling warmly at me. "Do you like sweets?"

"I… do, but I'm not exactly shopping for myself," I answered, switching my basket of books to my other hand. Annette immediately perked up, which was saying something because she was already chipper. "A couple of discussions with students had me serving tea, so I thought I should get some treats to go with them."

"Ah, that's right. I remember Edelgard mentioning that to Dorothea. She mentioned you were very elegant while serving." Mercedes's smile grew, though I had to admit confusion because how was serving tea elegant? It was just pouring hot water into cups, basically. "You'll probably want treats that last a while. I can recommend a few for you, if you want. And make you some!"

"What Mercie means is that she can recommend some, and then she'll make more whether you agree or not!" Annette teased, giggling. Mercedes joined in on the laughter, showing quite a bit of truth to the words. "Mercie loves baking. Says it's a good way to wind-down. Did you go to the bookstore before coming here?"

"Ah, yes, I did," I confirmed, holding up the basket. Then I nodded at where Dad was standing with Azrael in line. Azrael kept reading, completely enthralled, while Dad chatted with some of the people in line. "Truthfully, Dad took Azrael and me out to pick out some more clothes, but we were sidetracked."

"That's the best part about shopping, but did you say clothes?" Annette's eyes sparkled. Mercedes got a thoughtful look on her face, looking me up and down. "Mercie and I were actually going to stop by a few of our favorites to see what was around. Anything in particular you're looking for?"

"Not really, no?" I shrugged, once again switching my basket to my other hand. I may be strong, but it was still a lot of weight on a relatively small area. "I figured I would just do what I usually do and pick random things that fit well enough to wear under armor."

"Wait, what?!" Annette's jaw dropped, like I'd said something scandalous. Mercedes's own aghast look just… added to it, and I wondered what 'social rule' I missed. "That's no way to go shopping for clothes!" Without a second's hesitation, Annette snagged my free arm and began tugging me away. "Mercie will handle the sweets for you, Professor! I'll help you pick out the best clothes! Promise!"

I tried some form of protest, but didn't manage even a syllable before I was out the door and down the road in front of whatever tailor Annette liked. There, I spent at least an hour just… standing around and letting her hold up clothes to me while she rambled about things like 'this cut would be really flattering on your figure' and 'oh, this color would look so pretty on you!'. Before long, Mercedes joined in, telling me something about how the treats will be available for pick up by the time they were done here before she began finding things like ribbons to tie into my hair. Eventually, my confusion (and potentially Dad wondering where the hell I was) dragged Azrael out of his book and led him to find me. At which point, Mercedes and Annette pounced on him to do much the same with him, which just resulted in both of us becoming more and more confused while Mercedes and Annette had the time of their lives.

Dad laughed when he saw what was up, and didn't intervene at all. Instead, he set down the baskets of books and pasties and struck up a conversation with one of the tailors, talking about the one who used to run the place but had retired. I was glad at least one of the family wasn't drowning in confusion? I suppose?

---

"There, that should work…" I murmured, stepping back to check that I'd pinned the calendar right. Or, at least, pinned it so that it wasn't obviously tilted. "Sothis? What do you think?"

["It looks good to me."] Sothis reassured, humming thoughtfully. ["Good idea to get one. It'll make it easier to keep track of school events."]

"Indeed." Satisfied, I picked up the stack of rosters and set them down on the desk right by the calendar, so that I could mark everyone's birthdays later. "Let's see now…" Next was trying to arrange all my new books. More difficult than it sounded, since I didn't exactly have a lot of shelves. Yet. "Where should I put…?"

["You could probably squeeze a stack over on the corner table, there."] Sothis sighed about something. ["Though, if you had less flowers…"]

"The flowers stay where they are." While Mercedes and Annette played dress-up with Azrael and me as the dolls, Dad had snuck out to buy me some more perfumes and, of course, lots of flowers to help brighten up my room. As well as more candles to literally brighten the place. He'd also gotten Azrael some windchimes and small pieces of artwork to hang in his own room. "Maybe I should get everything else arranged first."

["Quite true. I wonder where that vanity came from, though?"] That was a very good question. It had not been there when I'd left my room this morning, but very much there when I'd returned. It wasn't something that should've been in the room either. The furniture in the room was practical and utilitarian, but the vanity's desk and chair had flowers and vines meticulously carved into it, something you wouldn't see in anything standard. ["Well, it's good for your perfumes, at least."]

"Very true." Surely it wasn't something of Mom's. There was no way anyone would hold on to something like that for twenty years. ...Right? "I can leave some books on it too. But let's get the rest first." Then, of course, there was a knock on the door. "Or I answer that." Sothis simply laughed when I headed to the door and opened it to find Ingrid. "Hello?"

"Good afternoon, Professor," Ingrid greeted, bowing politely. Her braid was messy and her face was slightly flushed, like she had been training prior to coming here. "My apologies for the unexpected visit, but Sir Azrael said you wished to see me?"

"He did, huh?" I asked, inviting her in. Leave it to him to take an errant thought I'd had while we were out shopping and act on it for me. Well, it wasn't the first time. "You haven't done anything wrong, if you're worried."

"Truthfully, I'm more worried that Sylvain or Felix have gotten into trouble." She stepped inside and looked around curiously, her eyes focusing on the numerous flowers in various glasses and vases scattered about. "Again."

"Has it always been that way?"

"Yes." She could only sigh and shake her head in exasperation. "They'd get into trouble doing something, and His Highness and I would have to somehow get them out of trouble and smooth things over with people. I typically handle the latter part, since Prince Dimitri could always just pick them up and carry them out of whatever they've gotten into." Given the strength I saw, I could believe that easily. "Wait, is that…?" Ingrid focused on one of my books, one of the ones set on my desk, and her entire expression lit up, with her eyes bright with excitement and unbridled joy. "Loog and the Maiden of Wind…! Oh, I love this story!" She bolted for it and very carefully picked it up to study it. "This cover art… this is the edition printed for Prince Dimitri's first birthday!" There… there were different cover arts? I hadn't known that at all. "That's why there's lion cubs on the cover. Typically, you only have Loog with a grown lion at his feet alongside the Maiden and…" She trailed off all at once and coughed, setting the book down and ducking her head to try and hide her blush. It didn't work, since it went right up to her ears. "I'm… er… I'm sorry. I didn't mean to…"

"No, it's fine." Best to reassure her. "I didn't know there was something special about the cover." I decided the best thing to do while she got her embarrassment under control was to go about finding places for everything, as I had been earlier. "That book was a gift, truthfully. I don't remember the boy's name, but he was very kind." Actually, I wasn't sure I had ever gotten his name. Since that had been the first time strangers had ever been kind, neither Azrael nor I had known that introductions were a thing. "I think I've had it for… fifteen years, give or take."

"Wow, quite the gift!" She lifted her head a little, her blush mostly under control and her expression mostly back to its seriousness. Until she noticed another of the books. "Is that the Sword of Kyphon?"

"Probably. Dad bought that for me when he saw how much I liked Loog and the Maiden of Wind."

"It's a favorite of mine. I read my copy so much that it actually fell apart." She looked through some of the others, all of them folktales popular in the Kingdom since I tried to keep 'like with like' when it came to my new books. Her bright eyes hinted that she not only recognized each one, but loved them as well. "Truthfully, based on what I've heard about mercenaries, I wouldn't have expected…"

"...It's nice to read stories where things are simple." Ideals were often impossible, but I liked reading about them. They helped me hold fast to the hope and belief that maybe one day, things would be better and there wouldn't be so much fighting. Helped me feel like a monster like me could actually make some sort of difference for someone. "Where you know who the bad guy is, who the hero is, and you know that the hero will triumph." Where you knew that the person you worked for wouldn't try to trick you into slaughtering civilians or that the sacrifices really were 'worth it' or... "You also need things not related to work to keep yourself relatively sane. Quite a few mercenaries we worked with over the years adored poetry."

"I never knew that. Galatea rarely deals with mercenaries, so I only know the stories." And despite relying on mercenaries quite a lot in the recent turbulent times, the Kingdom had a certain distaste of those who fought 'for money' instead of 'honor'. As if knights and soldiers didn't get paychecks too. "Ah, wait, you wanted to see me about something!" Ingrid flushed bright red again and bowed quickly a couple of times. "I am so sorry… being distracted is no excuse to waste your time…"

"I can assure you that you didn't waste anything, much less my time." The only thing I would've been doing was organize my room, and I'd done that while she gushed. "I simply wanted to ask about a preference you might have on your lessons." I finished arranging some of my vases to display all the flowers and turned to face her. "I have you down for riding lessons. Whether you actually fight mounted or not will be your choice." Ingrid nodded, though her eyes widened slightly like I'd surprised her. "In the notes on your roster, it mentioned that you had a higher affinity for fliers than horses, so I wanted to ask what mount you'd prefer."

"Which one I prefer?" Ingrid pressed her fingers against her cheek, thinking. Though the way her eyes sparkled hinted, to me at least, that she'd made her choice almost immediately. "I have always admired pegasus knights, so if possible, I'd like to practice with a pegasus."

"I'll make a note of that, then." Seteth's notes mentioned that students often practiced flying by patrolling. 'Sky Watch', he called it. "If you want to learn how to fight while mounted, those are additional classes. Take that into account when making your choice."

"Understood." She bowed, yet again. "Thank you for asking me."

"You know your goals far better than me." Was I… was I not supposed to ask or something? That just seemed wrong, though… "It seemed best." And now I hit the awkward point where I really had no idea what else to say. Thankfully, though, someone called for Ingrid outside. I thought it might be Ashe. "You'd better see what that is about."

Ingrid didn't even hesitate to leave. She bowed one more time, and was out the door in a flash. No doubt eager to get away, but I was used to things like that. So, I made sure the door was actually shut and then… well, I thought Sothis and I might be able to return to decorating and organizing my room, but I didn't even make it two steps away from the door before there was another knock. When I opened it, Petra stepped in, carrying a book.

"I ask forgiveness for causing a disruption to your activities," Petra began, flipping open the book. She then held it out to me, pointing to a phrase. "Linhardt and Ferdinand suggested that by reading fictional books, I might be able to further my mastery of Fodlan's language. However, I have no understanding of this phrase here."

"What phrase?" I asked, walking over and reading over her shoulder. She tapped the words again. "The expression 'I fell for it'?"

"Yes." Petra nodded. "I know that one 'falls in love' when meeting the mate of your soul, and one 'falls ill' when their body is unwell, but I cannot discern this phrase's meaning." Her smile was a little hesitant. "Normally, I would be asking Dorothea or Edelgard for assistance, but neither are…" She frowned suddenly. "...Word that means… um…"

"Near?"

"Yes! You have my thanks!" She bowed so quickly her braid nearly hit me in the face. Everyone bowed here a lot. I really hoped they'd stop soon. People never bowed to monsters or mercenaries. "And you have my apologies as well. I am having great abilities for reading and writing, but with sadness, I still have struggles with speaking. If my ways of speak…" She paused, frowning. "Of speech are causing a burden, I hope you will have forgiveness…"

"There's nothing to forgive. I remember how difficult it was to just learn one language, with reading and writing." I'd kept on mixing up letters and misspelling words. Dad had been wonderfully patient, and I'd eventually learned, but it had still been a trial. "To learn a second one is amazing, or so I think." Even if it was because she was a political hostage. "Now, for the phrase…" I read the sentences before and after for context, and smiled slightly. "I most often hear it in terms of being the victim to a trap or prank. For instance, if Claude pulls a scheme, and it works successfully, his victim 'fell for' his scheme."

"Ah, yes, I think I have understanding now." She brushed a bit of loose hair behind her ear, and it drew my eyes to the marking under her eye. "Hmm? Professor, you are staring. Is there something on my face?"

"Your cheeks are on your face." Since I wasn't sure how to bring up the marking, I defaulted to a joke I'd sometimes heard Dad use. "Same with your eyes, and your nose."

"Yes, I know about that! That is a joke of Fodlan, right?" She laughed, a warm and cheerful sound. "But was it not the marking on my face that caught your attention?" She tucked her book under her arm and clasped her hands in prayer. "It is a prayer to the forest spirits for protection. In Brigid, there are many spirits. Hunters ask forest spirits to have safe and bountiful hunting."

"That's interesting…" So, the Church of Seiros hadn't taken root in Brigid, yet? There was something comforting in that knowledge. I thought I sensed Sothis agree. "I imagine there are many marks and prayers for the different spirits?"

"Yes, indeed!" She moved her book to hold it to her chest. "I have more prayers on my arms and back. They are prayers for my family's health and triumph."

"I see." In the back of my head, I sensed Sothis practically vibrating from interest and excitement. It only amplified my own. "Say, Petra?"

"Yes, Professor?"

"Would you mind if you taught me more about Brigid's language and culture?" I waited for an answer, but I'd caught her by surprise. "I think it would be a shame to not learn, and perhaps by teaching me, we can also work on your own mastery."

"I… would be liking that greatly!" Her expression was soft and warm. "I love my home. I work hard for its sake. It brings me great happiness to hear you are interested!"

"Here, I'll make some tea for us." I should buy a greater variety of teas next time Dad took us to the market. "What book are you reading anyway?"

It ended up being a surprisingly enjoyable afternoon, though the most interesting thing I learned that day was how different Brigid's alphabet was to Fodlan's. It was something I never would've even considered!

---

I woke with a groan, pushing myself up slowly. The nightmare tonight was one I had seen many times before, another one of war where people were slaughtered. The unique thing about this one was that the main victims of the battle were not soldiers. Instead, one side had used the battle as a distraction to invade and slaughter the other side's camp. All the civilians who helped the army… the healers, the pages, the cooks, the farriers… all of them had been slaughtered and the camp burned to devour the bodies in flames. That dream always ended with the surviving soldiers screaming, cradling the broken and mangled dead as they crumbled away, and when I woke, I tasted iron, despite there being no blood in my mouth, and my lungs felt like they were filled with the ash.

"Ugh…." I groaned again, tentatively 'reaching' for Azrael to check on him. Thankfully, I sensed he was fast asleep, in his room. Sothis was too. "I wonder what it's like to sleep through the night." I couldn't remember a night where I hadn't woken up due to nightmares. Truthfully, that was one reason why Dad had taken to making me the tea mixes with ekress in the first place. "Suppose I could see if taking a walk calms me down like it does Flayn?" At least I knew at this hour, no one should be awake. I hadn't gone to sleep until after Flayn had visited for tea, so I knew it was very late.

However, when I started walking up towards the training grounds, I heard the distinct sound of someone practicing. I stopped at the noise, first to make sure I had actually heard it. It wouldn't have been the first time I'd hallucinated a noise after one of the nightmares, an echo of a memory, but this noise went on too long for that. So, then I looked up at the sky to confirm it was still night and that I hadn't slept through dawn or something. But the stars glittered brightly, and the half-moon above shone with a gentle light. Definitely night, and most definitely very late. With both things confirmed, I decided to head inside the training grounds, to see just who was stupid enough to be training at such an hour. I was surprised to see it was Dimitri.

I watched him practice for a while, leaning against one of the pillars. His fighting was more aggressive than it had been during the battle with the bandits. One that pushed forward no matter what, even with the potential danger for significant injuries. Every movement had an edge to it, like he was barely keeping himself in control. Based on his distracted air, it was possible he was. His eyes were dark and there was definitely a glint of rage in them. But rage at who? Whatever he 'fought' against? At himself? Impossible to tell. For all I knew, it could be both. But while such a style could be beneficial for working out frustrations, it was also damaging to the body to fight in such a way for a long period of time. So, after watching for a while, I decided I should speak up, after making sure I could dodge a thrown spear easily. Just in case.

"You should drop your elbows. It'll give you more control over your jabs," I suggested. Dimitri whirled at my voice, darkness and rage replaced with panic and guilt. When he recognized it was me, though, he slowly relaxed, though he kept his stance. "I also think most people consider this a good hour for sleep, not training."

"Professor, you startled me." After a moment, he relaxed fully, coming out of his stance and letting his lance fall to his side. He smiled at me for a moment before he immediately blushed and looked away. "M-my apologies!" he stammered. I tilted my head slightly, confused. "Were you looking for your coat or something?"

"It's not that cold?" Why would he…? "Is there something weird with how I'm dressed?"

"Er…" He coughed and still refused to look at me. "Not… many venture outside in only a shirt, Professor?"

"It's not much shorter than the skirt of the academy's uniform?" Though, I supposed I did understand what he was saying. Somewhat. "It's one of Dad's shirts. I sleep in them, since he's so much bigger than me."

"Well…" Though he still blushed, Dimitri did finally look at me. "I suppose you are correct about that…"

"And I should probably steal some of Azrael's sleeping pants to help keep people comfortable." It was only fair, even if I wasn't quite certain why it was embarrassing. Claude hadn't mentioned anything. But I learned in Remire that interacting with people always meant compromises, and this was a simple one. "But no, I don't have a coat. I thought about taking a walk, and heard noise."

"Ah. Yes, sorry, it's just me." He smiled wryly. I wondered what there was to apologize for. "I thought I would get some extra training in for the mock battle. Though it'll be a valuable experience regardless of the outcome, what's the point of a competition if the aim isn't to win?"

"I honestly wouldn't know." Feeling awkward, I looked down at the ground, letting my toes curl into the soft dirt. "I've never experienced a 'mock-battle' before. Just normal battles." Normal battles filled with blood and screams and rot… battles where the 'aim' wasn't to win, but to survive… where 'victory' was just pain and a shattered heart and staring at glassy, unseeing eyes that always seemed to ask 'why me and not you?'... "The closest would be watching the children in Remire play tag. They could get very serious about it. Hide and seek was somewhat the same, but that always seemed to devolve into tag."

"You and Azrael don't compete against each other?" He sounded almost confused by it. "A rivalry to better each other? Not just in fighting, but other things?"

"No?" I thought about it a bit, but I couldn't really think of anything. "We've sparred a couple of times, but Dad taught us a bit differently, to account for our natural talents." We knew the same basics, of course, but Azrael's style took advantage of his wind, while Dad taught me tricks to end battles as quickly as possible since I hated fighting. "Lessons would mostly be him teaching us two different things at the same time." Azrael would learn axes, for instance, while I practiced mathematics. "I think the closest we get to fighting of any kind is teasing each other, or me scolding him for being tactless." I brushed my hair behind my ear, continuing to think. But there wasn't a memory of anything I'd consider 'rivalry'. Then again, Azrael and I always sensed each others thoughts, emotions, and pain, so…

"I see." Dimitri sounded distracted, and I wondered if it was about how weird Azrael and I were. Again. "Your arms…" But, he surprised me by looking at the arm I had up by my ear. He hesitated for a moment before taking my other hand and lifting it up. I wondered what in creation could've caught his attention, but then I noticed he had focused on the scars that littered my skin, his fingers gently resting by a faint one that whipped around my wrist to the top of my hand. A quick glance to my raised arm showed that the sleeves had slipped down, revealing all the ones there. "You have so many."

"I've been fighting for a long while." The scars were just part of the punishment for battling and killing. Only survivors could scar, after all. Mine were mostly on my arms and legs, but I had a few across my torso, abdomen, and back. "There's always work for mercenaries."

"It can't be more than a few years, yes?"

"...It's been ten." I had no idea what to feel at his shock. "I was ten when I fought my first battle and, unfortunately, I gained a reputation quickly. Same with Azrael, but he didn't mind as much." Dad had hated it. He had tried to shield me. But after a few sent soldiers to drag me out of the inns we stayed… he and I decided it was better just to go with it. At least then, he could make sure I wasn't being hired to massacre civilians. "Child mercenaries, and child soldiers, are not uncommon."

"...While I know violence does not hold back because of age, I fear it always surprises me when I see and hear of those who have been fighting since such a young age." His smile became incredibly bitter. "Every day, I feel just how limited my world has been."

"Everyone only knows a small portion of the world." After all, a person was very small. "Are my scars truly so strange? Manuela made a comment as well."

"No, of course not. I simply didn't expect you to have so many." He stared at the scars for a moment longer before he gasped and suddenly dropped my arm. "I'm so sorry! I shouldn't have grabbed you!"

"It's a poor grip if you were planning on hurting me." Still, it was a little amusing for him to be so flustered. "I suppose I should apologize for dragging the mood down."

"I was the one rude enough to not only stare at your scars, but ask." He didn't quite look at me, as if it really was some gauche breach of propriety. "Ah, wait a moment. I should've asked this earlier, but what are you even doing awake? Surely you weren't working at this hour?"

"No, I simply had a nightmare. I normally do." I didn't see a reason to hide it, but I was surprised by the instant sympathy in his expression. At least, until I remembered one key rumor about him. Dimitri was the sole survivor of the Tragedy of Duscar. "Are you awake for similar reasons?"

"I… well, yes." He looked away, almost like he was uncomfortable about admitting it. "Then, since I couldn't get back to sleep, I decided to train. Though, I'm sure Dedue is worried by now."

"You two are close, then?"

"I like to think so. He is like a brother to me, really. And, I suppose, a nanny as well." He chuckled, wiping the sweat off his face with his sleeve. "Or what I've heard about nannies, at least."

"You didn't have one?" Strange. I'd heard most nobles had them.

"Not an official one, no. By all accounts, my father and stepmother would go about their duties while carrying me. Rodrigue once joked that they'd only let me go for him and Gustave." Dimitri smiled softly, clearly remembering a fond memory. Perhaps of the story, or his parents? "Ah, but my apologies. I shouldn't bore you with such tales. I should probably clean up."

I wanted to ask why he thought the small story was boring, but he ducked away before I could. I lingered, waiting for him and hoping for a chance to ask once he was finished, but alas, it was not meant to be. For one thing, Dimitri started apologizing yet again, this time for 'taking so long'. For another, Dedue was waiting right outside and his presence rather firmly changed the subject entirely.

"Your highness, there you are." It was difficult to discern if Dedue was more scolding or relieved, but either way, Dimitri sighed and held up his hands in a placating/surrendering manner. "You should not wander the grounds without informing someone," he chided. Dimitri simply smiled wanly. "Are you in need of anything?"

"No, I think I'm well enough for now, Dedue," Dimitri answered. He seemed a little sad about something, but I wasn't sure what. "How did you find out this time?"

"Sylvain informed me, before heading to his room."

"Sylvain is actually in his room?" After a moment, Dimitri grimaced. "Please tell me he doesn't have a… guest?" Guest?

"I do not believe so." Dedue smiled very faintly, and Dimitri breathed a sigh of relief. I was still confused for a moment before remembering Sylvain was a 'skirt-chaser'. But then I wondered how he kept things quiet. The walls weren't all that thick. "You should rest, however."

"Yes, yes, I'm heading for bed now. Or at least Sylvain's room to make sure he's feeling well, but I'll head to bed afterwards." Dimitri turned to me and bowed. "Good night, Professor."

"Good night, Dimitri," I replied automatically, thinking. The exchange there… this was definitely common. Very common. "Next time you find yourself awake, come by my room. I'll make you some tea to help you sleep." Dimitri hesitated a moment, surprised by the offer, before nodding hesitantly. "I shall see you in the morning then." I waved Dimitri goodbye as he left, and I expected Dedue to follow. Instead, Dedue remained where he was, now focused on me. "You are welcome to have tea as well, if you worry."

"No, but thank you. I am afraid I do not care for most of Fodlan's teas," Dedue refused. I made a mental note to try and find out what kinds he did like, to have on hand. Even if he never wanted tea, it would be better to be prepared. "As for the worry…" He paused, putting heavy thought into his words. "His Highness trusts you, and I have not yet seen any reason to doubt that trust." His eyes narrowed slightly, though, easily giving the impression of a glaring scowl. It added a heaviness to his next words. "However, if you mistreat him in any way, I will take action."

"If he's training at this hour, I think you should fear him mistreating himself." I said the words without thinking, but Dedue's slight wince told me I hit a nerve, and a large worry of his. "I… uh… also recommend being careful about threatening me? Dad will pause, but Azrael won't."

"I hope it will be the only time we speak of this. As I said, I see no reason to doubt the trust he gives you. I hope I can give the same." With that, I got it. He didn't trust me. Especially with Dimitri. But he wanted to. Maybe not entirely with Dimitri, but still. "I will clarify that the action wouldn't be violent unless there is violence first. I am His Highnesses strength, yes, but primarily his shield."

"Given how he fought against the bandits, and how he trained here, he definitely needs it." I wasn't sure I liked hearing him describe himself as a 'shield', though. Shields were battered, beaten, and broken in place of another. Shields had no sense of self. "But we can discuss that with your lessons on another day. Right now, we should probably take our own advice and get some sleep."

"I will first make sure Prince Dimitri did actually return to his room." Something about how he said that told me Dimitri had pretended to do so in the past, and had gone somewhere else entirely. "But I will once I have confirmed that."

"Of course. Rest well." I remained where I was when Dedue left, watching him leave before looking up at the stars and their light. That was...

["Why do I have a bad feeling that most, if not all, of your menagerie is broken?"] Sothis, of course, broke the 'silence'. I had no idea when she had woken up, but the lack of grogginess in her voice hinted it had been a while. ["And, in some cases, we might want to call that 'shattered'. Or 'disintegrated', perhaps?"']

"I hope not…" I whispered, unnerved by the thought. I had no idea how I could help. Honestly, I'd just be glad if I could teach them properly. But… "I suppose things are… chaotic enough to spark such trauma, though."

["Indeed. However, all you can do is guide them as best as you can. Just as I will guide you."] For a brief moment, it felt like I was being hugged. A warm hug that radiated safety… ["You must remember you are not alone. I am here, and I will help you with the children. I promise."]

"Thank you, Sothis…" It was surprising just how comforting she was. "Thank you."

---

Sundays at the monastery were 'free days', where everyone relaxed and recovered from the week of lessons, normally. Though this Sunday was different because in the evening, the Houses would be meeting in order to discuss strategies for the mock battle. So, while I had originally planned on exploring the monastery, I instead holed up in my room jotting down potential ideas for strategies. I had a pretty good idea of what 'my' cubs were capable of, but I had no knowledge about the rest of the Blue Lions, and wouldn't until later today. Not much different from a typical job, of course, but that didn't mean I couldn't use the extra time to prepare

["Isn't there some saying about all work and no play makes someone very dull?"] Of course, I had Sothis scolding me the whole time. It made it harder to concentrate, but I remained determined. ["Or was that 'broken'? Worn out?"]

"I don't need to hear that from someone who was asleep for over twenty years," I retorted quietly, leaning back to pop my spine before returning to my work. Which was mostly just writing own anything and everything I could think of, and then crossing off what I was relatively certain was too advanced or required more people than we had. Or were definitely too deadly for a 'mock' battle. How were they even going to keep people from dying? Practice weapons, certainly, but how did you keep magic safe? "Besides, I'm supposed to be leading them."

["Even leaders need breaks. You've been at this since before dawn, with only one break for breakfast."] Sothis's voice was dry and got dryer with each word. ["Which you only took because Azrael dragged you."]

"He didn't drag me." I frowned over how messy my notes were and grabbed a fresh sheet of paper to rewrite them. That would make it easier to know what I was working with. "He simply reminded me of the time."

["Because you were already at work for hours by the time most were waking up for breakfast."] Sothis huffed a bit, and I somehow knew she was preparing one hell of a lecture. This was definitely going to be a day. ["Regardless-"]

"Professor!" Sylvain was very, very lucky I recognized his voice a split-second before I threw fire because when he burst inside my room without knocking, I definitely assumed someone was attacking. "Are you hiding from the sun so that you don't make it jealous?" he asked with a grin. I tried to process that question, and came up blank. How could you make a giant bright thing in the sky 'jealous'? Assuming anyone would be jealous over me? "Come on!" He slipped behind me and nudged me onto my feet. And out the door. Because I automatically just kept moving my feet. Sothis chortled, radiating smugness despite not having an actual form. "It's lunch, and you really shouldn't miss out. On Sundays, you get to pick out what you want on a menu with what the kitchens have in excess, and sometimes, they have special dishes!" Sylvain had us going at a fast pace, too. We were already almost at the staircase to the lowest part of the dorms, near the greenhouse. "You can't miss it!"

"Sylvain! Are you trying to abscond with our professor?" Just before we actually stepped on the stairs, though, Dorothea slinked up to us like a cat and wrapped her arms around one of mine. "I can't let that stand," she declared haughtily. I stood between them awkwardly, absolutely confused by what was going on. "She's for sharing."

"My dear Dorothea, are you accusing me of uncouth and crude thoughts towards our professor?" Sylvain dramatically gasped, stepping back like she'd struck him. "My only intention is ensuring that our professor doesn't miss lunch! Though, if you're offering, I certainly will not refuse to share a meal with another lovely lady."

"I'm sure you wouldn't." Dorothea hummed a bit in thought, a lovely tune that sounded like something I'd heard in a recent opera, before nodding. "Well, I suppose I should make sure our professor has a quality companion for her meal."

"You are a star and a wonder for your generosity!" Sylvain bowed with a flourish. "Shall we escort our guest of honor, then?"

"Yes, indeed!"

Dorothea held onto my arm the rest of the way to the dining hall, where Sylvain opened the door for us with a bow and a flourish for some reason. Inside, it was bustling, but thankfully, it wasn't packed. People were starting to trickle in, hinting to the inevitable rush, but for now, there were still seats a'plenty and few people in line for the meal. Sylvain and Dorothea ordered first, to show me how, and then they picked some seats near the end of one of the long tables, with Sylvain sitting across from me and Dorothea sitting next to me. Before long, some of the kitchen staff brought out each of our meals (vegetable stir fry for Dorothea, cheesy verona stew for Sylvain, and whatever random thing I'd picked) and we settled down to eat. And I certainly had to admit that the food was good.

"Ah, man, I never realized it until I came here, but no one in Faerghus knows how to cook," Sylvain sighed, happily devouring his stew. Another of the kitchen staff swung by and set out drinks for us. Simple water, but it was still nice of them. "Returning home after this will certainly be a trial food wise."

"I've often heard that Faerghus has to import food to make it through the winters," Dorothea mused, carefully eating her own food. Though she hid it with delicate movements, I noticed she ate very quickly, almost like she was expecting someone to steal the food from her. "It doesn't have a lot in fertile ground, right?"

"It's not just the poor soil, but the Kingdom puts spring and summer into four months and skips over autumn in a rush to get back to winter. Though, it's only recently we've had to actually import foods, aside from a couple of bad winters in the past." Sylvain waved his hand, as if to dismiss the thought. I wondered if it was because of how chaotic things became after King Lambert's death. "But that wouldn't be so bad if there wasn't such an emphasis on practicality. Seriously, they treat cooking with the same 'ugh, must I' feeling that Lindhardt has about waking up."

"Yikes, that is bad!" Dorothea muffled a laugh with her napkin, and glanced to the side as a couple of boys wearing student uniforms walked over with a swagger to their step. They took one look at Sylvain, though, and immediately ran. "Huh. Maybe you and I should share meals more often. I hate when people walk over just to hit on me. At least when I'm trying to eat."

"Meals are for learning someone's preferences, and seeing subtle ways to help brighten a mood. If you're going to flirt over food, it should at least be saved for dessert."

"I should've known you had rules." Dorothea shook her head and turned her attention to me. Right as I was taking a large bit of a red turnip. They were everywhere in this dish. "Say, Professor, how about after we eat, you come into town with me? If I'm cooped up in this dusty monastery for too long, I swear I'll go crazy! Or snap at those people who keep commenting on my 'status'." She rolled her eyes. "Yes, yes, I'm well aware that I'm the only commoner in the entire Black Eagle house. I knew that before the first day of class."

"They're probably just jealous that you're as smart as you are gorgeous, Dorothea." Sylvain winked and Dorothea rolled her eyes again. "And I promise that was not flirtation. Annette was telling us just yesterday about how you helped her with a difficult formula."

"She was overthinking it." Still, Dorothea softened enough to smile. "She's adorable, though. I'm glad she thinks well of me. Though, does she think bad of anyone?"

"She's got a sharper tongue than you'd think." Sylvain chuckled and his wry grin hinted he had been on the wrong end of that 'sharp tongue'. "Much sharper."

"Is it sharper or duller than how 'sharp' you think you're being preventing our professor from answering my question?"

"Hey, given the upcoming mock battle, I think we cubs should get priority on her time!" He… he just called himself a… was that just going to become a thing? I'd meant for that to be solely in my head and maybe my notes. For my own amusement. "More specifically, given the notes I saw on her desk, I think her head is still too full of battle strategies to have a proper time of it all." What he saw on my desk? He had time to look? "You should save the shopping trip for after. For a job well done."

"Aw, but that's not as fun as a spontaneous trip." Dorothea laughed however. "Well, I might agree to that, if you agree to come along and carry the purchases."

"You mean I get the excuse to spend more time with some wonderful ladies?" Sylvain grinned, but for a split second, I thought there was something sharp in his eyes. It passed in an instance though, so I wasn't sure if I actually saw it. I'd have to keep an eye for that. "I'm failing to come up with reasons why I should refuse."

"I hope you've got strong arm muscles~!" Dorothea turned her attention back to me. Once again when I had just taken a large bite of food. I wasn't used to people doing that. "You should prep a shopping list, Professor! Oh, and we can invite some of the others! It'll be fun!"

"Should've asked this earlier, but how's the food? You enjoying it?" Sylvain watched me closely, and smiled when I nodded. "Oh, good! Your expression just hasn't changed at all, so I wasn't sure."

"It just adds to her mysteriousness!" Dorothea wiped her hands on her napkin, her own plate cleared, and she ran her hands through my hair. "You have such lovely hair, Professor. I just want to play with it."

"Don't tempt me." Sylvain made a face and shrugged at Dorothea's disbelieving look. "Girls like it when you can help them with their hair. And I got used to having to help Ingrid fix her hair during formal events. But wouldn't she look great with a braided half updo? Our professor, I mean."

"She would!"

Lunch quickly devolved into Dorothea and Sylvain messing with my hair, our empty dishes taken by some of the kitchen staff to clear space. I felt bad for making them do that, but I was a little pinned by the two of them. My hair must've been braided at least a hundred different ways before Caspar dragged Dorothea away for something, while Ingrid pounced on Sylvain and scolded him for 'bothering me'. Which left me sitting awkwardly in rapidly filling dining hall, so I quickly made my own escape and headed down the stairs to the docks. And that was when I saw someone else I knew, someone I didn't expect.

"Flayn?" I called, walking to where she was standing on the edge of the docks. It was my first time seeing her in sunlight. "Everything okay?"

"Oh, Byleth!" Flayn gasped, whirling to smile at me. She winced as the bucket she was holding banged against her knees. "Everything is well. I simply…" She looked back at the pond with a little frown. "I was asked by the kitchen staff to catch a bucket of fish, and I was so eager to help that I… well, I forgot that I hadn't actually fished before."

"That so?" Well, I had to say that was a unique problem. She must've grown up in an area where there wasn't a lot of water. "Here, why don't I help? My dad taught me." It was a good family activity, and Dad seemed to like it a lot. Though he never let Azrael or me forget the time a fish almost dragged us into the river. Or, to be accurate, dragged Azrael off his feet, then dragged me off mine when I tried to grab him, and only Dad's quick reaction kept us out of the water. All by a fish. A pretty rainbow fish that was very tasty, and almost made up for the fact that neither Azrael nor I had thought to actually let go of the damn rod. "Where do we get supplies?"

"Oh, thank you ever so much!" Flayn beamed at me, relieved. "We head this way. Will you show me how to fish as well?"

"I can certainly try." Fishing would be a good way to relax anyway. I hoped.

---

The pond was teeming with fish, and the manager for the docks had quite a bit of bait, so it didn't take long at all to fill the bucket. Or a second one, since it seemed like a waste to just stop. Particularly since by the time we filled the first bucket, Flayn had finally gotten the hang of fishing. It surprised me that she could identify each one we pulled out, almost as much as how excited she got at this one particular fish I happened to catch. Carassius? Cassius? It was an odd name, but apparently it was a fish used in dishes served on Saint Cethleann's day. I hadn't the heart to tell her that I hadn't even known the saints had their own special days. Dad never celebrated them.

After helping her carry the buckets to the kitchen, and assisting the staff with carrying some heavy items, I decided to visit the greenhouse. As soon as I stepped inside, I instantly felt at peace. There were so many different flowers and plants growing that it was impossible to not feel anything but calm. Especially for me, because… because Mom liked flowers. Dad had told me that once, after I had climbed a tree just for the pretty flowers growing in the highest branches and had gotten myself stuck. Dad had laughed, climbed up to carry me down, and told me about how Mom had also gotten herself stuck in trees because there was a flower too pretty to not pick. And since that day, I had loved flowers even more. Because it had been a connection to Mom. Something I shared with her…

"Professor?" A cheerful voice dragged me from my thoughts, and I looked down to see Ashe by one of the flower beds. "Did you come to look at the plants too?" he asked me with bright eyes and a brighter smile. His sleeves were rolled up, and he had soil streaked all the way up to his elbows. And a couple of streaks on his cheeks. "Isn't this place amazing? There's so many rare flowers I've only seen in botany books, and there's herbs I never knew even existed!"

"Botany books, huh?" I repeated, thinking a little. If Ashe knew herbs, then perhaps he could help the healers with medicines and poultices? "I take it you like plants, then?"

"Well, my adoptive father is the real expert." Ashe's smile somehow became even brighter, and he all but radiated pride. "Everything I know came from him, including how to tell certain herbs apart and how to make medicines. The area around Castle Gaspard has a lot of medicinal herbs, so it was also a good excuse to go hiking and explore the land."

"It sounds like he tried to make the lessons fun."

"He did, even though he was busy ruling and protecting his land." If Ashe's smile got any brighter, we might have to use it to replace the sun. Or use it to blind enemies and sneak around them. "I can't wait to write him about all the ones here!"

"Would that be before or after you've wiped the soil off?" I tapped my cheek when he looked at me curiously. "You've got a little bit here."

"Oh, whoops." He blushed faintly from embarrassment, but laughed good naturedly. "I should use a handkerchief or something for wiping the sweat, huh? Christophe used to tease me about how dirty I'd get when I was focused on my work." All at once, his good cheer faded for deep and painful sadness. But he shook his head abruptly. "Nope! I'm going to remember the good times!" So, whoever Christophe was, he had to be dead. "...Wait, what was I in the middle of doing again?"

"I think that's a sign you need to take a break." Gently, I helped him up. "What was your next task?"

"Er… oh, I was supposed to water the plants!" He flailed a bit, like he wanted to push away how he'd forgotten. "Dedue asked me to while he pruned some of the plants!"

"Then how about I take care of that, and you get cleaned up." I nudged him down the path, towards the door. "Maybe ask someone about one of those plants you don't recognize. You can teach me later."

Though he blushed and protested about 'teaching me', the trick of getting him to learn more as a means of resting did work enough for him to listen to me. He led me to the 'water area' of the greenhouse, where water was regularly diverted via rain and the pond to serve as a place to clean and gather water for the plants. While he scrubbed the soil off, I filled up two watering cans and carried them to the flowers, carefully watering them. I had to admit that I didn't have much experience with this part of planting, only really when I was around to help with the farming in Remire. But there was something nice about helping the plants, particularly since they always brought such calm and happiness to me.

"Wait, don't water those." When I had reached the last of the flowers, a patch of brightly blooming ones I didn't recognize in the corner, Dedue suddenly called out to me. It took me a moment to find him, since he was half-hidden among the young fruit trees. I only really saw him when he stepped out of their shadows and I saw the sunlight glint off his shears. "Those plants are from Duscar, and require a dryer environment," he explained. I looked down at them curiously. "Too much moisture makes the roots rot."

"Really, now?" I asked, mostly just to say something to acknowledge I'd heard. I set the watering cans down and wiped my hands on my pants before carefully touching the petals. They were a very soft blue-white, darker at the tips and lighter at the base. "They're beautiful. What are they?"

"I do not know if Fodlan has another name for them." Cautiously, Dedue approached, watching me carefully. "In Duscar, we called them 'lunar ostrella'."

"Oh, I've heard about them." Not much, mind, but Dad had brought them up while teaching Azrael and me about plants. Their petals and leaves were good for pain, particularly headaches. Dad said that their pain relieving properties were so renowned that they were rumored to even ease the pain of a broken spirit, and were once the medicinal herb of choice when dealing with traumatized patients. "I didn't know they were so pretty."

"...Their color is normally more vibrant, but they were sickly due to overwatering." He still watched me carefully, like he was afraid I'd damage the flowers in some way. I pretended to not notice. "The soil is also not the best for it."

"You should let someone know. Or, I could, if you want." I waited for a reply, but Dedue remained silent. Simply watching me still. Probably due to wanting, but being unable quite yet, to trust me. So, I continued studying the flowers, amazed that something this pretty could become even more beautiful. Dad mentioned that flowers needed the right environment in order to thrive, and that their looks reflected the ground and soil where they grew. In fact, he said that people associated red poppies with death for that reason. Red for the blood that spilled… "I wonder if the ones is Duscar are red now…"

"...Excuse me?"

"Ah." I… uh… hadn't meant to say anything aloud. Damn it. This was awkward. "I was just thinking of a story Dad told me once. About how flowers reflect the environment. I suppose they could be black as well, since that can represent mourning and false 'justice'." I was definitely rambling and he kept on watching me. Silently. Not saying a word. "I'm sorry. It's not my place to say anything." I didn't know anyone personally affected. ...Well, I did now, technically. But back then, I hadn't. I had only heard about it, and remembered how sad Dad had been over the king's death. My opinions on it were ones of a distant observer, who questioned what justice could be found in the death of so many innocents.

Dedue remained silent, and I took that as a cue to leave, especially since the watering was done. I returned the watering cans to the 'water area' and hunted for Ashe to let him know I was done. It took a bit because he was excitedly talking with one of the monks about some plant, but I eventually caught his eye and nodded to let him know. Then I left the greenhouse, not sure of where I would escape to, but determined to escape nonetheless.

"Professor!" And then, I had a very energetic 'cub' attached to my arm, because that was how Annette decided to greet me. "Finally found you!" she chirped, beaming up at me. "Sorry, but I was wondering if we could discuss potential strategies? I have snacks from Mercie!"

"We can certainly discuss, yes," I reassured, wondering what snacks had to do with strategies. But I would just go along for now, especially since she could help me with something I'd been wondering earlier. "In fact, do you know about the Resonance Effect?"

"I've read about it! I've never tried it myself, though." Her eyes shone and she bounced up and down in excitement. While still holding onto my arm. "I'm not sure we'll be able to do a full one, but I think we can manage something similar? Smaller, and weaker, but similar!" That could work nicely, particularly if… "Hmm? Oh, there's Felix!" Oh, so it was. And he was walking… right for me?

"Professor," he greeted, nodding briefly to Annette before focusing on me. She stuck her tongue out at him at the rudeness. "Are you free for a spar?" Well, that was straight to the point. Though, given what I'd heard, I kind of expected him to be more brusque about it. "I'm tired of the feckless idiots who are gathering to gossip instead of fight." There it was.

"I'm busy with Annette at the moment, but I'm sure Azrael wouldn't mind taking you up on the offer," I answered. I opened my mind a bit, 'reaching' for my twin, and found him easily. I sensed a question in return, but quickly reassured him. "He should be in the knight's hall, by the stables."

"He's your twin, right?" He frowned, clearly debating it, before nodding. "Should be fine. Knight's hall?" I nodded and he left without another word, pushing past people without any sort of 'excuse me'.

"I can't tell if he's trying to compensate for something with those manners, or if he's just similar to Azrael." I hadn't really meant to muse aloud, but Annette's giggle hinted she didn't mind the observation. "Well, Azrael can deal with that for now. How about we head to my room? We can have tea with those sweets you mentioned." She nodded vigorously and continued clinging to my arm as we headed up the stairs nearby. And nearly ran into Dimitri. Great job, me.

"Ah, I'm sorry, Professor, Annette!" he immediately apologized, rocking back on his heels and helping Annette and I stay balanced on the stairs. Annette almost slipped, but he picked her up easily. "My mind was wandering. Are you okay?" Annette nodded, smiling. Now that I thought about it, I didn't think I'd seen her with a frown yet. "Good… I really am sorry. While I was looking for you, Professor, I shouldn't have-"

"Your Highness, you're rambling like me after I've eaten my weight in sugar," Annette teased, laughing. At least she was self-aware of her energy? "Why were you looking for Professor Byleth?"

"Hmm? Ah, I was wondering…" He focused on me, smiling sheepishly. "I was wondering if you'd mind talking strategies prior to the House Meeting this evening? It doesn't have to be now, of course-"

"Now would be a perfect time since Annette wanted to talk about it as well," I interrupted, keeping him from rambling apologies. Dimitri sighed in relief, and became almost adorably confused when Annette shyly stepped up to hook her arm around his. Immediately afterwards, she took my arm again. "We were just heading to my room to discuss with tea and sweets."

"That sounds delightful," Dimitri agreed instantly. He then hesitated, though. "If you're certain I won't be intrudi-whoa!" Dimitri had to struggle to keep his footing because Annette decided the best way to assuage Dimitri's worries was to simply continue on ahead while keeping her grip on both of us. I recovered more quickly than him. Barely. "Er… thank you?"

We ended up having a little fun at the second set of stairs, since Annette playfully sulked over having to let go of one of us (since the steps weren't wide enough for three people). Dimitri solved it, sort of, by picking her up and carrying her. It made her shriek and laugh, and I had to smile a little at the sight. They reminded me of a pair of siblings, truthfully, though I made sure to keep the thought to myself. I had no idea how they would react to that. It was better just to lead them into my room and urge them to sit down at the table.

"Here," I said, passing my re-copy of notes to Dimitri and Annette as soon as they were settled. I felt a little smug now about being prepared, and Sothis (quiet until now) huffed in the back of my head. But I mostly ignored her to focus on making the tea. "I still need to whittle the list down, but that's what I got this morning."

"This is an incredible variety," Dimitri murmured, setting the paper on the table so that Annette could read it with him. Adorably, she shyly rested her head on his shoulder to read and, even more adorably, Dimitri smiled faintly (if a bit surprised by the affection). "What is this one? Fusillade?"

"The names are simply what I learned from Dad. You all might know it under a different name." It took a moment for me to decide what tea we'd have, but I eventually went with a slightly bitter mix to balance out the sweets we'd have with it. Not too bitter, mind. I hated bitter. Played a part in why I didn't really like alcohol. "But it's primarily for archers. Continuous barrage of arrows. Magic can replace arrows, but if you have enough mages to make it work, you're often better off with a resonance."

"Resonance?"

"It's when mages work together to cast a spell on a much grander scale than one can manage alone," Annette explained cheerfully. She giggled and pointed to it on the list. "It's typically divided into fire, lightning, and ice. Well, for reason magic. You can do similar things with faith magic."

"There's also a few others, and then there's formations that can trick the enemy into thinking magic has been used, when it is really just physics," I added, finishing up with the tea and bringing it over. I poured us each cups and sat down, smiling slightly in relief. They didn't seem to think the ideas silly, at least. "Some of those require heavier armor than what I think you all will be wearing, though. Or mounts."

"I admire those who can stay on a horse. I can barely stay on my own two feet!" She made a face and sipped her tea. And immediately yelped. "Hot! Hot, hot, hot!"

"I just poured it."

"Hot!"

"Cool your tongue on whatever sweets we have."

"Oh, right!" Annette looked around frantically before jumping to her feet. "Ack! They're still in my room! I'll be right back!" She rushed out the door and, a few seconds later, I heard the sound of someone falling over. "Ow… who put this stupid barrel here?"

"A bit scattered, I think you described her?" Not sure what to do, I simply focused my attention on Dimitri, who continued reading over the list. "Any questions?"

"Quite a few, but I'm having fun just reading through and making guesses," Dimitri answered, glancing up briefly. His smile was a little boyish, different from the ones I'd seen before. It really did sell the impression that he was, in fact, having fun. "I'm assuming the names made it easier to relay the orders?"

"I normally only 'order' Azrael, if I order anyone, and he and I don't need to speak," I replied, shrugging off his curious look. Mercenaries were rarely put in charge of anyone or anything, especially when hired by nobles. "The names are what Dad taught us."

"Strange that I've never heard of these, but perhaps it's simply because I'm from the Kingdom?"

"Or they're ancient." I had to smile slightly again when he tilted his head in confusion. "Dad doesn't pay attention to his age much, to the point that he's forgotten, so Azrael and I will sometimes joke that he is forever old." I shook my head and sipped my tea to hide my embarrassment. It sounded so silly when explaining… "I'm sorry."

"No, no, I don't mind." He chuckled and this time, smiled warmly. "Though, some of these names do seem odd. Disturbance?"

"Hmm? Ah, that's…"

While we waited for Annette to return, I did my best to explain each of the 'formation names' I had written. Dimitri asked more questions about each, and asked even more about some of the ones that weren't on the list. Like 'Stride'. I saved explanations for the more magical formations until Annette came back, with a basket stuffed with sweets in hand and noticeable bruising from her falls. Then I explained while applying bruise balm to her injuries. It was the least I could do.

---

A few days later, the day of the mock battle arrived. It was scheduled for the afternoon, and everyone was given free time to do whatever they wished in order to prepare. For me, that meant curling up in bed with a book and not budging from my bed for anyone or anything. Save Azrael and Dad for breakfast. Otherwise, I was enchanted by my book, one of the ones Miriam said Mom had read, and ignored any knocks on my door. At least, until lunch came. That was when Sothis pointedly reminded me that I needed to eat something, even if it was something light, and I reluctantly dragged myself out of my room. I snuck into the kitchens to directly get some food and escaped before someone could drag me into the dining hall. It was far too loud for my nerves.

"Oh, Professor, I didn't… how did you even get on the roof?" That was why a baffled Dimitri found me on the roof of the student dorms an hour or so after lunch ended. I hadn't planned on staying up there, but a couple of cats had joined me and so, I petted and played with them after giving them bits of my lunch. "Are you part cat?" he asked. While the words implied a joke, his tone was mostly serious. "Sylvain complained that it's not easy to climb up."

"I gather he wanted to try climbing to sneak back into his room," I mused, gently nudging the cats off me. They 'mrowed' in protest, but reluctantly complied. "Is it time?"

"Yes, it's just about time for the mock battle. Can you not tell by the eagerness that has infected the grounds?" He smiled then, expression bright and cheerful. "How are you feeling, Professor?"

"I'm… I hope everyone has fun." I knew it wasn't exactly the 'proper' answer to this sort of thing, but since Dimitri knew of my discomfort already, he simply nodded and accepted the answer. "Hang on a moment. I'll be right down." And I was. It didn't take me long at all, and I wondered if I should include climbing lessons for everyone. "I'm supposed to meet you directly on the field, right?"

"Yes, but I wanted to make sure you were all right." That was… huh. I tried to think of the last time a stranger had checked on my well-being. Aside from those in Remire, I… had trouble remembering any. "I'll meet with everyone for last minute checks. Though, if you want to walk with me, we can discuss…"

"Hey there! Did we miss our invite to the strategy meeting?" As if summoned, Claude and Edelgard walked up, both looking a little eager. "Oh, no worries!" Claude teased, nudging Dimitri's side. Dimitri rolled his eyes, but smiled. "We'll just join in now!"

"Nice try, Claude, but I have no intention to let slip any of our strategies," Dimitri retorted, turning slightly to better face both Claude and Edelgard. I did the same, still feeling a little awkward about all of this. "Especially against such mighty opponents."

"Well, now! Such kind words from his kingliness!" Claude smirked at Edelgard. "Still, I think we should be allowed to join the meeting, right?"

"I'm certain no one will mind you joining if you simply tell everyone all your weaknesses," Edelgard replied with a sweet smile. It was offset by the sharp glint in her eye. "But is there enough time to cover them all?"

"You can't win unless you know my weaknesses?" Claude asked. It was impossible to tell if his tone was mocking or joking. Maybe it was both. "Dear princess, you should believe in yourself more!"

"I spare no effort to secure victory. Though it matters not what schemes you come up with, as we will destroy you."

"Schemes? Me? Well, I never!" Claude dramatically gasped, as if personally scandalized by the accusation. "The nerve of it all! I intend to fight fair and square!"

"Somehow, hearing the phrase 'fair and square' is ominous," Dimitri noted, with a glance to Edelgard. She rolled her eyes, smiling slightly. It looked far more real without that glint in her eye. "I hope no one has rushed to the infirmary due to a 'harmless stomach bug'. Again."

"Hey, that was not my fault!" Claude immediately protested. Dimitri and Edelgard immediately became skeptical. "Or, well, entirely." Claude shrugged, and I thought he was actually sheepish. "I did make it, yes, but I just set it down for a moment to go grab my notes. Not my fault Lorenz gave it to the kitchen staff. It wasn't even on his desk."

"You shouldn't take your eyes off of a poison until it is safely stored away," I scolded without thinking about it. All three of them stared at me. "Poison is a weapon like any other, but it can't be controlled as easily as a blade or arrow. It's main value is its ability to appear harmless, and even trained herbalists can have difficulty discerning unless someone has ingested it. And, if that happens, it might already be too late for the victim. So, if you're going to use it, you have to keep it in sight at all times. Otherwise, it'll be your allies you harm or kill, not your enemies." They were still staring. "Did I say something strange?"

"...Most people's reaction to the whole 'oh, hey, mild stomach poison' is 'how dare you use poison', not 'you are an idiot for not watching it at all times'," Claude answered after a moment. I had the feeling I'd genuinely surprised him. "Then they go something about honor and fairness and whatnot."

"I personally hate it, because if I'm going to kill someone, I'd rather get it over with." Not to mention just how painful some poisons were. "But there's no such thing as a 'higher moral ground' once battles start. Once it starts, there's no 'good' or 'evil'. Just killing." Just death and rot and blood and shattered lives. Didn't matter if it was quick or slow. The quickness was just for myself and myself alone. A superficial balm to ease my heart. "Though you mentioned a mild stomach poison? Sometimes, that's not enough to stop anyone. Particularly loyal knights will march to the field anyway, and sometimes, lords will force…" Ah, this didn't suit such a day, did it? They were staring, at least, so I figured I should just shut up. "Did I start lecturing?"

"You did! And, here we are, listening with bated breath!" Claude laughed. Still, I saw the surprise lingering in his expression. "Can't wait for the actual lessons!" Sure, sure, but things were now a little awkward. More like a lot awkward, actually, and it was all my fault, but I had no idea how to fix it, nor could I think of a convenient escape, but I...

"Aw, how precious…!" Manuela's sing-song voice was the only warning I got before she wrapped me up in a hug from behind. "Looks like you and the students are becoming fast friends!" she mused, letting me go. After a moment, she brushed the hair out of my face. "It is such a lovely thing to see."

"Still, while I am glad to see you taking initiative, I'm afraid it's time for the faculty meeting," Hanneman explained, joining us then. He smiled kindly at all four of us. "We figured you had lost track of time, and might need help finding the meeting room."

"So, we came to get you. Don't want you to feel too overwhelmed during your first mock battle." Manuela laughed and wrapped an arm around my shoulders. I tried to think of when I'd heard anything about a 'faculty meeting' and came up blank. "We'll see you later on the field with the other students, okay?"

I didn't actually pay much attention to the meeting. After all, I was still very aware that I was only a professor to collar Dad, so I felt uncomfortable. All I really got from the meeting was a double-check of the safety measures to ensure that no one died. It all went way over my head anyway. So, I just pretended to listen and escaped as soon as I could, heading to my room to make sure no one was waiting for me (and to sneak in another chapter of that book). While there, though, I noticed I had today's date marked, so I quickly snuck to the market square to buy some flowers and ribbons and headed for the classrooms, since I figured a good majority of the students would be there. I was proven right and, luckily, the person I was looking for was there as well.

"Ferdinand?" I called, poking my head into one of the classrooms. Quite a few of the Black Eagle students had gathered there, including Ferdinand who was explaining something to the others. However, he quickly broke off his conversation and headed to me. "Sorry to interrupt."

"It is no trouble, Professor," Ferdinand reassured, fussing a bit with his… cravat. That was what it was called. I think. I always wanted to call it a napkin or bib when I saw one. "We were simply reiterating the rules of engagement for the mock battle. Did you need assistance with something?"

"Not exactly." I felt ridiculous now. This whole thing was because I knew how much Madeline and… well, everyone in Remire… liked it when I did this. But he was a noble, one of the highest ranked on the continent, so this had to be beyond ridiculous. Still, I had already made it this far. "Here." I presented him with the bouquet I had made, tied with a red ribbon (for the Black Eagles) and a maroon one (just because). "Happy birthday, Ferdinand."

"This is…!" At first, I feared he would be insulted, but after a moment of surprise, Ferdinand smiled warmly and took the bouquet from me with hands that shook slightly. "I'm surprised you knew it was today. I was trying to hide it to focus on the mock battle instead."

"It's in the roster, and I got a calendar to help me keep track of everyone's birthdays." I shrugged, hiding my relief. I was glad he liked it. "Birthdays are important, and I thought it would be a shame to not give you something. I hope you don't mind the flowers."

"They are magnificent!" Ferdinand continued to smile and, after a moment, I decided he was sincere. He honestly didn't seem like the type to lie much. "What a kind gift. If you do not mind, I would like to see them safely to my room as soon as possible."

"Of course." And hey, if he was pretending, then he could get rid of them without my seeing. Tactful. "Careful during the mock battle, okay? You can't let yourself get rattled when someone gets a hit on you."

"I'll be sure to impress, Professor!" He bowed to me before leaving, and I tried to think of who he wanted to impress. But then decided that wasn't my business. Instead, I should probably leave and...

"Professor?" Edelgard called, drawing me from my thoughts. When I turned to face her, she looked surprised to see me. Almost as surprised as I was to see her shadow move for a moment, before I realized it was just Hubert. "This is where the Black Eagles decided to meet." She looked around as if to confirm she was in the right spot. "Why are you here?"

"I was just giving Ferdinand some birthday flowers," I explained. Edelgard's continued surprise, and Hubert's own slight but noticeable confusion, made me wonder if there was something strange about wanting to celebrate birthdays. I wasn't sure why, though. Dad always made a point to celebrate Azrael's and mine, even though that day had to hurt him terrible. It's when we killed Mom, after all. "I feared there wouldn't be time later."

"I didn't know it was his birthday." Well, Ferdinand had said he had purposely not mentioned it because of the mock battle. "Do you have all of ours memorized or something?"

"No, certainly not. I marked them all on a calendar to keep track." Still, I thought I remembered hers. "That said, yours is the twenty-second of the Garland Moon, right?"

"It is." That was all she said, but her expression lit up and that 'said' enough. While it might be strange, it wasn't something they were adverse to. "Ah, since you're here, will you walk to the field with me? I was just going to make sure everyone remembered the time before heading there."

"Sure, that would be fine."

"Fantastic!" She smiled and darted to the room where the other Black Eagle students were. "I'll be right out."

"Okay." I had to smile, just a little, at her enthusiasm, though it faded when I noticed Hubert studying me closely with a deep frown. "Is something wrong, Hubert?"

"No, it is nothing," he answered after a moment, speaking very quietly. I thought I heard him whisper something about me not being intimidated, but wasn't quite sure. I could barely hear him. "I was simply noting that Lady Edelgard seems to have taken an interest in you."

"Has she?" I asked, genuinely curious. His eyes narrowed, though, like he thought I was dismissing his words. "I haven't been around too many people, nor have I seen her interact with many others yet, so I can't say for sure myself. I'll take you at your word, since you know her much better."

"Indeed, I have been her servant since I was a child. So, I would like to emphasize one of my duties to you." Now, I was certain he was glaring. I was also certain he kept a close eye on our surroundings. "I am responsible for determining potential advantages and hindrances to Lady Edelgard and her goals. If you prove yourself useful to her, then all is well. If you prove a threat, I shall have to dispose of you." ...Dispose? Well, that was… this seemed like a similar conversation I'd had with Dedue, but much colder and much more of an actual threat. Still, two for two with vassals threatening me. Claude hadn't mentioned having one, but should I be prepared anyway? "I assure you that it is no joke. And I am far less compromising than Lady Edelgard. Do not be at ease because you stand in her good graces for now."

"Forgive me, but I don't think that's something you should just boldly say?" This conversation took a turn for the bizarre. I gathered it was why he spoke quietly, and had checked no one was around first. I mean; the closest people were in the classroom, and the noise from there hinted no one would've been paying attention even if Hubert wasn't being quiet. But still… "I'd also advise you to not say anything like that around my family? Dad might hold back, but Azrael won't and… well…" Azrael would rip the air right out of Hubert's lungs for the threat and continue about his merry way. I wasn't inclined to see something like that again.

"Ah, Byleth! Good to see you!" I had no idea who jumped more at Alois's booming voice: myself or Hubert. Either way, I tried to think of how Alois managed to sneak up on us. I had been certain the closest people were the ones in the classroom. Certainly not a knight! "I look forward to seeing the mock battle!" he told me, ruffling my hair. Despite the fact that his smile was genuine and he was as cheerful as ever, I thought… I thought there was a distinct edge to it. "Though, I have to admit that I was passing by and happened to overhear a bit of the conversation." He focused his attention solely on Hubert, who was definitely studying the armor Alois wore. Like he was trying to figure out how Alois snuck up on us too. "Though, I'm also certain I misheard. Surely you didn't threaten the captain's daughter, did you?" Er… oh, this was awkward. This was really awkward. "I'm sure it was just misspeaking, right?"

"Yes, Alois, he was just giving a hypothetical scenario after I asked him about his duties as Edelgard's bodyguard," I 'explained' quickly, lying through my teeth. Azrael and Dad would've seen right through it, but thankfully, Alois didn't. The tension in his shoulders relaxed instantly, and took the edge off the cheer and smile. "Sometimes, it's easier to explain things via example, after all."

"Too true, too true. I remember Captain Jeralt used examples when he taught… oh, most of us older folk. Though, don't tell anyone I called us that!" He laughed, warm and bright. Like the earlier edge hadn't been there at all. "I knew I had simply misheard. That's why I wanted to come over and get a clarification before the gossips spread. Everyone talks here at the monastery!"

"Most places talk a lot." This was so awkward. "Thank you for checking and not jumping to conclusions." Thankfully, at that point, Edelgard stepped out from the classroom, looking confused again. Probably wondering why Hubert visibly looked like he was regretting everything and why Alois was even here. "But I fear I must be off. Edelgard wanted to talk to me on the way to the field."

Please let this be the weirdest thing that happened today? Please?

---

The mock battle's location was a field on the outskirts of the monastery, which had a large hill overlooking it for 'spectators'. Which ended up being the few knights who weren't on missions, a few monks, Seteth, Lady Rhea, and probably a few others I couldn't quite see. It was still more people than I thought, and way more people than I'd like.

"I suppose I'd best talk to Professor Manuela now," Edelgard murmured once we arrived. Manuela and Hanneman were both already here, along with a scattering of other students. None of whom I recognized. "I hope you're eager to face the Black Eagles, Professor." She swung in front of me and smiled. "I'm certainly eager to face you."

"I'll try not to disappoint," I replied, doing my best to keep calm. Why would anyone want to fight for recreation? I really didn't understand. "Remember what I said about your grip, okay?"

"I shall." Her smile grew, but she left without another word, heading straight for Manuela.

I probably should've tried to find any of my cubs, be the proper teacher and all, but all the excitement in the air made me nauseous. Made me remember the arrogance that almost all new fighters/soldiers/mercenaries/warriors had before their very first battle. Made me remember how broken they were after that battle, either mentally shattered from the exhaustion and pain or splintered into pieces on the battlefield. My stomach turned at the memories, so I instinctively tried to find Azrael or, even better, Dad. For once, I found Dad first. He was standing among the small crowd, though he kept a noticeable distance, and when he saw me looking, he smiled. I immediately with to him, all but attaching myself to his side as soon as I reached him. Dad reached up to stroke my hair, not surprised at all at my clinginess. After all, he knew how much I was panicking as soon as he saw me.

"Everything is going to be fine," he reassured me softly, more to just say something than anything. The words themselves were less important than being talked at, and having more things to ground me. "The brats will smack themselves around a little, learn how little they actually know, and be more inclined to listen. This is just a safe way to knock the overconfidence out of them, and provide an occasion for the teachers to demonstrate that they are more experienced. Well, a second occasion for you, since you already knocked yours silly."

"They had wanted a spar, and why wouldn't they be dubious about me?" I half-protested, closing my eyes and leaning on him more, this time more from relaxing than worrying. Dad always made things better. So long as he was near, I knew things would be okay. It had always been that way. Strangers had only hurt me when he wasn't around. "I'm younger than at least one of their number. Maybe two or three. I'd have to doublecheck birthdays." While Hilda had said I was Hubert's age, I vaguely remembered that he had turned twenty earlier this month. Meaning I would be older. "Dimitri was shocked when I told him I'd been a mercenary for ten years."

"Kingdom might train the young, but they don't field children until they're at least thirteen." Dad pulled me in a hug that was a little tight, but I didn't mind. Dad's greatest regret was how young Azrael and I had been forced onto the field, and how he couldn't protect me from those who wanted to utilize my skills. "...Maybe I should've come straight to the monastery after that first battle. Or gone to one of the nobles I knew. Azrael didn't care, but..."

"But you worried about the consequences. Whatever you ran from, Dad, still worries you. Even though it's been twenty years. Azrael and I could tell you didn't want us here." I made sure to speak quietly, just in case someone was sneaking around. I was still shocked Alois had snuck up on Hubert and me earlier. "And that's with you knowing that we would be wary, and that the two of us could handle most things together. Neither of which were guaranteed when we were ten." Dad always blamed himself, but I never did. I knew Dad protected me as best as he could. Problem was… there was more than one potential threat. "Oh, did I tell you that the little girl woke up and talks to me?"

"The one on the throne? You told me she woke up and talked to you, but not talks." He loosened his hug on me slightly to frown down at me. "She talks? Present tense?"

"Yes." I knew that if I said that to anyone besides my family, they would think me absolutely insane. "I think Azrael can sense her, but he hasn't brought it up yet."

"So, you have a gremlin-goblin talking to you in your head now? Not sure if that's better or worse than the dreams you have." Dad, however, was used to how weird and inhuman I was, and just went with it. Though that description of Sothis did make me smile a little. Sothis, for her part, was comically annoyed by it. "Why bring that up?"

"Because she watches too. So, Azrael and I have one more set of eyes watching out."

"That so?" Dad was silent for a moment, no doubt trying to think of the best way to 'go with this. "Ah, well, thank you, miss gremlin. I appreciate you indulging my overprotectiveness." He tightened his hug again briefly before sighing and letting go. "I can see Alois waving at me, so I'd better head over before he starts shouting."

"I probably should make my way down to the field." I didn't really want to, though… for one thing, Sothis's indignation at being called a 'gremlin' was amusing and I kind of wanted to provoke more comments. For another, battle. I hated battles. "Is this the largest the crowd is going to be?"

"Probably a few more. It's just some of the monks, squires, and knights who are off-duty." He ruffled my hair before having me turn and quickly braiding my hair back. I felt what lingering tension fade, which he knew would happen. I liked having my hair braided when I was particularly nervous, because then I could better pretend that I had some of Dad's confidence. I mean… he wore his hair in a braid. "There we go. Remember what I do with uncooperative soldiers if any give you lip, okay?" Considering what Dad did basically summarized as 'give them a once over before knocking them out in one hit', I simply shook my head. I knew why Dad did that, since insubordination could cost allies their lives, but it wasn't something I could see myself doing. "Everything will be fine."

Dad waited for me to step away from him before actually leaving, and even then, glanced back a couple of times to make sure I'd be fine. Only then did he actually start chatting with Alois about whatever it was Alois wanted to talk about. Meanwhile, I decided to try and find my twin since if Dad was here, I knew Azrael had to be. And while I really did need to return to the field, I wanted a hug from my twin before doing so. With that said, I got distracted before I could begin my hunt in earnest. I hadn't expected Flayn to be with everyone watching.

"Flayn?" I called, mostly to confirm it was her. Though she had been surveying the field below, she immediately turned at my voice and smiled at me, skipping over. "I'm surprised to see you here."

"I recall telling you that I am a most excellent healer, yes?" she explained, giggling. I nodded, remembering that little tidbit. "Though there are safety precautions, sometimes something unexpected happens. And people do still get surface burns and bruises and scrapes. So, I assist."

"I do feel better knowing there are trained healers here." You could never have too many healers when there was fighting. Never. Maybe I should make everyone learn at least basic healing, even those who did poorly with magic. "I've been in too many battles to not expect something catastrophic."

"I know the feeling." She sighed gustily, and I wondered if she'd ended up in a battle when she was younger. It would certainly explain her dead friends, and the trauma that made it hard for her to sleep. "Thankfully, everyone keeps a very close watch. Last year, we did almost have an incident where a practice lance unexpected snapped and one of the sharp pieces was caught up in a wind spell that went out of control…"

"I can already tell where this could've gone." Azrael and I had once done something like that on purpose. Azrael had also utilized the wind's might to drive seemingly innocuous things, like rocks, straight through armor. "I'm hoping this ends with a 'but no was was injured'?"

"We had some bruises, but Seteth jumped down and threw a javelin to knock the piece off its course." That… that would've taken some skill. Considering the wind speeds… though if it had gone out of control, quite a bit of the magic would've been diverted elsewhere, so it would've likely been weaker. That was why breaking the spell's pattern was a viable tactics, after all. The only way it became stronger than expected was to purposely overload the pattern, but that was also a suicide tactic for magic users. "So, I cannot say that unexpected events do not occur, but that is why we have our numerous safety measures!"

"Right, right…" The safety measures I knew nothing about, but I assumed she did. "Still, I'm glad those measures include extra healers." Of course, now I was distracted. Remembering that trick we had done had brought my attention back to Azrael and I began sensing for him again. Only to find he was not only trying to sneak up behind me, but that he had a bunch of flowers in hand. "Azrael, I'm about to fight. Don't put flowers in my braid."

"Drat, I hoped you were too distracted," Azrael whined, leaning heavily on my back before hugging me. He held me extra tight, giving what comfort he could. He was probably dizzy from how much my own head was spinning. "Fine. I'll put them in after." He brandished the flowers he held like they were a sword, before he grinned at the staring Flayn. "I was trying to pull a trick on her, but twin senses were too strong!"

"I really should've expected you planned one sooner since you didn't greet me," I complained, pushing back a little. It was hard to breathe. Thankfully, he sensed the reason quickly and loosened his hold on me. Just slightly. He was still on me. "The flowers are pretty, though."

"Aren't they? I figured they'd brighten your day." He finally let go of me, and picked a pure white flower to give to Flayn. "As an apology for startling you. I was so focused on sneaking that I didn't realize she was talking to someone." Now that was a lie. He'd known. He just hadn't known it was someone he somewhat mildly liked.

Still, I wouldn't call him on it. I rarely did. "You should take it. It's very rare he actually apologizes." Though, glancing around, I noticed a few people giving us some weird looks. I supposed it had to do with being Dad's kids, and being the weird ones. Still, I thought their weird looks softened when Flayn actually took the flower with a smile. And I saw Catherine, who was among the spectators, purposely block us from Seteth? I almost asked about it.

"Flayn, I hadn't known you already made their acquaintance." But then, Lady Rhea walked over, moving with quiet grace yet with no movement wasted. Not even her cape fluttered more than expected. "I am happy to see that, though," she continued, gently stroking Flayn's hair before tucking the flower behind one of Flayn's hair ornaments. Flayn, in turn, smiled warmly up at Lady Rhea. "You are always at your best when surrounded by people."

"I do like people," Flayn admitted, giggling now. She got on her tiptoes and tugged Lady Rhea down to fix one of the flowers in her hair. "And Byleth and Azrael are both ever so nice." I nudged Azrael immediately to keep him from snorting. He always scoffed and rolled his eyes whenever someone called him 'nice'. "I am guessing it's almost time for the mock battle to begin, since Seteth actually let you walk away."

"It is." Rhea smiled softly at me. "I am certain you shall do fine, Byleth, but know that many of us support you."

"Thank you, Lady Rhea," I replied, debating whether or not to bow. But bowing felt weird, and I had Azrael attached to my back anyway. "I'll do my best."

"Then I fear we already know the victor of the battle," Lady Rhea teased, laughing quietly. At least, I assumed she was teasing. It made more sense than being sincere. She'd never seen me fight, after all. "But, Byleth? Azrael? Might I make a request?"

"Of course."

"You do not have to refer to me by title. 'Rhea' will be just fine." Her smile softened. "Fiona never called me by title, you see, not even when she was a little girl. And I've tried to get Jeralt to drop the formality, though I need not tell the two of you about his stubbornness."

"Few can make Dad do anything he doesn't want to do." I glanced at Azrael, curious what he thought, and he shrugged. He didn't see any reason not to. "Then, Rhea, I will do my best."

"I look forward to it." Rhea continued laughing quietly before turning her attention to Azrael, who tilted his head curiously. "Azrael, why don't you watch the mock battle with Flayn and me?"

I took that as a hint that I really needed to leave. So, I did and walked down to the field. And during the conversations I'd had, the place had filled with students. As in all of them were here, and I was probably the last one to the field. At least the Blue Lions were easy to find. They were at the southernmost part of the field, which was elevated due to the hills. A quick look showed that each of the Houses were 'granted' some sort of potential advantage, no doubt to see if they could be utilized or not.

"I'm sorry for being late," I said, using that as my greeting when I finally caught up to them. My 'cubs' gathered around, thankfully not offended by my tardiness. "Do we have everyone?"

"We do indeed, Professor," Dimitri confirmed. He looked confused for a moment before reaching around and plucking a flower from my braid. "Oh, I had thought it caught, not placed. Here, I can..."

"Damn it, Azrael." I made sure to 'press' my exasperation on him. I sensed his amusement in return. " Leave it. It's not supposed to be there. I told him not to put any flowers in my hair before the fight." Speaking of my brother, though… "Felix? Did you get properly healed from the spar you had with him yesterday?" Ever since the free day, Felix had insisted on daily spars. Azrael didn't mind obliging.

"I'm fine," Felix replied, shrugging. Still, he had a faint smile. "Didn't expect that trick. I'll have to remember that."

"Please don't use too much hand to hand in actual combat without proper training," I immediately requested. It got me a scowl. "Unless you know how to kick and punch in a way that lessens the chances of you breaking your own bones because you hit armor instead of flesh. Regardless, I didn't ask if you were fine. I asked if you got properly healed."

"He did, Professor, because I made sure of it," Ingrid reassured me. She looked exasperated, though. "Is there a way to remind Sir Azrael that sparring doesn't normally involve breaking people's ribs? I didn't even know you could do that with a single kick."

"They were probably only 'cracked', not outright broken," Mercedes gently corrected, smiling serenely. She looked like she was more focused on my braid than the conversation. "Cracked ribs are fairly common injuries, but I do agree that too much force must've been used for a simple spar."

"Precisely. So… Felix, if you say something stupid like 'you should go full out during sparring matches', I will tell Prince Dimitri about the icicle incident." That was, apparently, quite the threat as Felix's eyes widened for a brief moment before he looked away and remained completely silent. Sylvain's snickering hinted he knew exactly what they were talking about, though Dimitri himself looked incredibly confused. "Well, I should acknowledge that he stopped the spar immediately once he realized what had happened. And he seemed upset about it." ...Well, he had been upset, but that was only because he knew I would be upset at one of my students being injured. He'd apologized to me directly about it.

"That is true. But I suppose we should really get ourselves ready?" Mercedes looked to me curiously, and I nodded. We had already lost enough time for planning due to me. "Shall we then?" This time, she looked to Dimitri, who called for the other students to come gather around and join us.

I felt ill and trapped. I supposed that summarized my life for now, though.

---

We planned and strategized all the way to the battle's actual start, which was… slower than I was used to. More hesitant. Only after a few moments did the battle begin in earnest. And from my vantage point on the hill, I found myself filled with questions. Such as why did the Golden Deer have someone like Hilda hiding behind a barricade? Even if it was to protect Claude, who was also there, she still would've been more suited to being outside the barricade, to be the primary defense rather than the secondary. And why in all of creation was Dorothea on the front lines? If she were a magic knight, then sure, she could be, but she didn't have the weaponry skill to manage that. In fact, she didn't have a weapon at all on her. What were the Black Eagles thinking?

"Professor, is something wrong?" Dimitri asked after a while. Though he kept most of his attention on the battlefield, where the 'soldiers' of all three houses were locked in a messy stalemate in the middle, he did spare a glance my way. "I could be wrong, but I think you've been digging into your arms for a while."

"It's nothing," I answered automatically. Still, he was right. When frustrated, I did have a tendency to cross my arms and dig my nails into them. And I was doing so now. "Who directs the tactics for the other houses?"

"Pardon?" He stared for a moment before looking out over the battlefield again. "Well, it is the same as with us." So, professor and house leader supposedly working together. "Why?"

"I think I need to re-prioritize tactics lessons, if Edelgard and Claude are involved in these tactics." Though, looking over things, the Golden Deer's difficulties could be attributed more to a lack of unity. It did look like Lorenz was just going off on his own, with poor Ignatz following in order to remain under some sort of guard. Black Eagles had no such excuses. "They'll get their soldiers killed with these sorts of tactics."

"...Not many would complain about their enemy making less than sound tactical decisions, you know." Dimitri smiled faintly, and I supposed if he put it like that, it did sound ridiculous to most people. But I… I could far too easily hear the 'death cries' such tactics would ring. See the blood such tactics would spill. And it… it bothered me. No, more than that. I hated it.

"I suppose." But, that was neither here nor there. I was stuck in this position, and to 'survive', I had to keep going. Even if my life was nothing, I… "Order ours to fall back." By this point, everyone below would be exhausted, overflowing with battle-fever. Easier to trick, and even easier to rattle...

"For the crux of the plan?" He waited for me to nod and confirm. "Understood."

Dimitri gave the predetermined signal, one apparently used in the Kingdom, and gradually, our 'soldiers' below began falling back. Behind us, the 'soldiers' we held back prepared for their own part, keeping low and using Dimitri and me as shields. Not that the Eagles or Deer were paying any attention to up above. Like predators scenting blood, the Eagle and Deer 'soldiers' (freaking hell, it felt wrong to use that term for the students…) chased after the retreating Lion students. I thought I even heard Edelgard say something about victory being in sight. Most of the 'soldiers' seemed to think the same. Few, if any, questioned just why we'd suddenly called our forces back. None of them thought anything was wrong, at least until Hubert and Claude suddenly shouted for their own 'soldiers' to retreat. But, by then… it was far too late.

Both Dimitri and I ducked down, both as a signal for Annette and Ashe and to make sure we were out of the way of their assault. As Annette had warned, she and her mages weren't quite skilled enough for a full Resonance, but they were skilled enough to do something on a smaller scale. 'Group Flames', we decided to call it. Not as powerful, and not as wide of an effect, but still more than enough to burn and rattle the 'enemy' below. And the ones that might've kept their wits joined the ones who hadn't once the arrows came down. Ashe had wanted to keep everything coordinated, with the same 'knock, draw, loose' that was used in the stories, but since I'd never seen anything like that in an actual battle, I'd overruled him. The closest I'd dealt with was simple a command to 'start shooting'. You didn't want convenient shouts to tell the enemy when to prep for arrows, and tracking and shooting a moving target was a very individual process, based on a number of things including the type of bow and personal strength. Not something that worked well with timed commands. The strength in a 'Fusillade' tactic was timing those first few volleys to be close together, and give no quarter for the enemy to collect themselves.

I glanced at Dimitri and nodded once before surging forward. Dimitri was only a split-second behind me, the 'signal' for the Lions to charge. Annette, Ashe, and their soldiers would provide covering fire once they recovered, while Mercedes and her healers would tend to whatever injured fell back. The rest? They fell in behind Dimitri and me, picking off 'enemy soldiers' as we went, straight for the two 'enemy camps'. With so many of their forces taken out, splitting our own wouldn't be a disadvantage.

"Your Highness, Professor, more of mine were injured than expected," Sylvain informed us, keeping one step behind Dimitri while we charged. For once, he looked completely serious. "I think there might still be enough for my part, but it will require some creative thought."

"If that's the case, then perhaps you should instead join my 'half'," Dimitri suggested. He glanced at me, and after a moment, I nodded. That should be fine, and if it looked like we committed most of our force on the Eagles, the Deer might let their guard down. "Inform Felix of the change, then. And Ingrid, since Felix might forget to tell his soldiers."

"Understood." Despite the serious tone, Sylvain did smile and wink, startling a smile out of Dimitri. "I'll be right behind you."

"I'm counting on you." Dimitri looked to me again while Sylvain fell back. "Still keep with the plan?" I nodded again, because there was no reason to deviate. Dimitri and his group would subdue the Eagles. Felix (at Dimitri's insistence) led the rest against the Deer. And me? Well, my part was… "Be careful, Professor." My part was tying up Hanneman and Manuela.

There were several ways to go about such a plan, and I kept all possibilities open as I approached the 'end' of the field. Either due to their own strained relation or because they were technically 'enemies', but Hanneman and Manuela stationed themselves quite a distance away from each other. Manuela, however, kept herself back from the fighting, treating the injured alongside Linhardt, only pausing to advise Edelgard and Hubert. Difficult to bait, so I focused on Hanneman. He stayed near his students (though still noticeably away), casting sagittae arrows with precision to providing cover for retreating Deer. With his attention solely in front of him, though, it was easy to sneak around to strike. Honestly, I probably could've taken him out then and there, but I had a different tactic in mind. I had two focuses, after all.

So, I purposely made a noise to catch his attention and let him dodge my first strike. He recovered quicker than I expected, so one of his retaliating sagittae arrows grazed my side. It wasn't nearly enough to even bother me, though, so I darted in again, feinting once more. Dodge, dart, feint. Dodge, dart, feint. Take a hit here and there. Graze him here and there. Slowly but surely luring him away from the other Deer so that my Lions could pin and strangle them. Slowly but surely watching and calculating the range of his sagittae spell. Slowly but surely drawing him into position, keeping part of my attention behind me…

When I judged the timing right, I flipped out of the way of the spell and changed targets, dashing back towards the Black Eagle's camp, where Manuela was. We were close, for good reason. After all, since I knew Manuela wouldn't be easily lured away, and because I didn't want to use my magic in a 'mock battle', I decided to let Hanneman handle the initial blow. It worked even better than I had expected, because she had been focused on the battle in front of her, where Dimitri and Edelgard dueled and the rest of the Lions easily pinned and defeated the rest of the Eagles. So, Hanneman's sagittae spell hit her full on, making her scream from surprise (and possibly pain), and jerk back. Meaning she had no time to recover before I was on her, slamming my practice sword into her abdomen before whirling to kick her into the pillar of… whatever building was near. Kind of looked like an altar, but hell if I knew. And hell if I actually cared.

Because once Manuela hit the pillar, and she slid to the ground with a groan, I re-focused on Hanneman. I had to flip and roll a few times to avoid his spells, but I was able to get in close before long. One good blow to the neck and Hanneman was down. Seconds later, someone announced that the Lions won. But I didn't pay much attention. I didn't really care besides the fact that it was over. Meaning I helped Hanneman up, helped him hobble over to Manuela, help tended to both of their injuries, and then left to go help the healers with the students. At least, that was my plan.

Dad stopped me before I could and brought up my arm to look at them. It only took a second to see why. At some point during the rolling and dodging, a couple of rocks either dug into my skin or got caught in the gashes I'd gotten from Hanneman's spells. Whatever the reason, the end result was the same. Because I healed so quickly, the rocks hadn't had time to 'fall out' before the skin closed. So, I had some itchy, mildly painful lumps. And there was only one way to get them out.

Dad sighed and smiled sadly when he confirmed his suspicion before drawing his knife and cutting them out. I clenched my jaw at the pain, and I hid how much my hands trembled by gripping Dad's sleeve. It wasn't the first time something like this had happened. It was actually pretty common. It would be more common if this healing rate of mine didn't conveniently help minimize wound infections. Then again, without that bit of convenience, I probably would've lost all my limbs to gangrene before I was five years old. If I didn't die from it first, at least.

Since Dad was very used to this, he was done quickly. But I continued to cling, because it still hurt. I always clung when I hurt. Thankfully, Dad never minded.

---

Once everyone was healed, we were dismissed for baths and changes of clothes. From what I understood, we were done for the day and Manuela attempted to get me to spend a night in town with her again. However, the young boy with a scar on his face intercepted us when she tried to drag me out the gates and informed us that Rhea wished to speak with me. While I wondered why, I couldn't help but be grateful for the convenient escape. I was in no hurry to return to a tavern any time soon. At all.

"I apologize for taking you from your rest," Rhea began, smiling warmly and proudly at me. We stood in the same room where I had first met her, with Seteth at her side. Just as before, it was hard to tell what Seteth was thinking, but I'd like to think he was a bit softer towards me? Then again, he definitely was scrutinizing me. "I simply wanted to check how you were. Your work with the students today was remarkable. I can see Jeralt trained you well."

"I am fine, Rhea," I answered, wondering why she'd want to check in. Though, I suppose a cooperative hostage was easier to deal with. "A little tired, perhaps, but no worse than the jobs I had done in the past." In fact, it was better. No one as dead.

"I see." Her smile softened, but I swore there was something almost calculating in her gaze. It unnerved me. In the back of my head, I sensed Sothis 'tense', like she was preparing to stop time to save me again. Perhaps we were both paranoid, but… "And were you able to bond wit your students?"

"I believe so." Why would she ask that? I supposed it was to make sure the students weren't ready to stab me? "We'll see how the year goes."

"Indeed, though I am so happy to hear you are growing close."

"Of course, the mock battle was mere practice," Seteth said, steering the conversation to safer waters. He still scrutinized me, but I noticed part of his attention was now on Rhea. Like he also thought something was different. Not helping my nerves. "The real fight is the Battle of the Eagle and the Lion, held during the Wyvern Moon. You are expected to properly train your students so that you do not humiliate the academy during this long-held tradition." So, there was another 'mock battle' like this, then… I hoped I would be more comfortable. "Still, as the Archbishop said, you did well. I hope that translates to the missions." Missions? What missions?

"I'm sure it will," Rhea… chided. I think that was the word I wanted. While you could say she was reassuring me, her attention was more on Seteth than me. That said, her attention returned to just me before long. And her gaze was back to warm, with no sign of the earlier calculation. I'd say I was just imagining it, but Sothis noticed too. Even if she saw through my eyes, we weren't the same person at all. "I look forward to the year. I have high hopes for you, Byleth."

"Ah, but before I forget..." All at once, Seteth's expression softened. "Flayn was wondering if she could come by for tea this evening as she has done the past few days. She was worried about how tired you might be."

"I'd be delighted," I reassured, a bit surprised. Since he didn't like me, and because Flayn mentioned his protectiveness, I wouldn't have expected him to relay such a request. Still, I was glad. "As I mentioned, I'm only a little tired."

"I'll let her know, then," Seteth replied, smiling faintly. He glanced at Rhea, who tried to remain serene, but also looked distinctly amused. "Was there anything else, Archbishop? I'm not telling her about the missions yet. Given everything, I'm certain she would forget and you know how I despise repeating myself." I wouldn't forget, but I was definitely just going to keep quiet on that one.

Luckily for me, that was all Rhea had wanted to speak to me about. So, after a little more awkward small talk, I was dismissed. I thought about going to Azrael and Dad, but I sensed that they were occupied with something. Knightly duties, given how much Azrael grumbled and how much he debated whether he could get away with sleeping or not. So, I decided to simply head to my room. I could get food later.

"Professor! There you are!" Those plans were halted, however, when Dimitri called from somewhere behind me. I turned and saw not just him, but the rest of my 'cubs' approaching. "We've been looking for you." The group gathered around me, and Annette briefly jumped out of the group to hug me before jumping back in. "We're all sharing a meal together and hoped you could join us. A victory celebration."

"A victory celebration?" I repeated, a little surprised. Not by the celebration part. Those were pretty common. But they were… "I'm invited?" Mercenaries were rarely invited to the victory celebrations after jobs. Even then, most gave me a wide berth.

"Of course!" Yet Dimitri seemed surprised that I'd ask that at all. "Why wouldn't you be?"

"Come now, Professor! We can't exactly celebrate without the key to our victory with us!" Sylvain joked, grinning. And fixing Annette's pigtail when her excited jumping made it fall out. Again. "Annette, let me secure these in the morning, will you? They keep falling."

"Hmm? Ah, sure?" Annette agreed, briefly knocked from her cheer into confusion. But she went right on back to cheer without a second's pause. "But he's right, you know? For once. We never would've won without you!"

"Hey, what do you mean 'for once'?"

"Exactly what she says," Felix deadpanned, rolling his eyes. And scowling. He always scowled. "But I have to agree. Compared to what the boar here would've come up with, your tactics were nearly decent."

"Felix! Stop picking fights with His Highness!" Ingrid immediately scolded, snagging his collar to pull him towards her. Felix dragged his feet, but otherwise, didn't protest. "And would it kill you to pay someone a proper compliment?"

"It was a compliment."

"'Nearly decent' is not a compliment!"

"Easy, Ingrid," Dimitri urged, shaking his head. Ingrid sighed, but let go of Felix. "It is best for all of us if we speak freely, and I think our professor has learned how to translate Felix's words." All I had potentially learned in the brief interactions I'd had was that Felix had difficulties being direct about anything emotional. I'd ask Azrael what he thought. "Besides, Felix is quite correct in that my own tactics would've proved lacking."

"Goodness, do you mind if we move the conversation to the dining hall?" Mercedes asked, gently interrupting whatever potential argument or discussion might've occurred. Though she sounded absent, I had a feeling she did that on purpose. "I'm so hungry I can barely stand…"

"Ah, I'm sorry Mercedes. You're exactly right." Dimitri smiled up at the silent Dedue, and the quiet Ashe. "Particularly since I believe you two were on kitchen duty today?"

"We were!" Ashe confirmed, nodding enthusiastically. I noticed everyone's moods brighten at the revelation. Even Felix's. "I wasn't much help, mind, but Dedue prepared an amazing selection of dishes!"

Dedue shook his head, likely to dismiss the compliment, but everyone headed for the dining hall with smiles and laughter. That is, everyone save Dimitri and me. Me, because I was still confused by the invitation. And Dimitri because… well, he peered at my face, studying it closely. I wondered what he tried to discern.

"Forgive me, but you do not seem too happy," he explained at last. I shrugged, not sure how else to respond. Beyond my confusion, I was just glad everyone was all right. "Something about your eyes… ah, no, I'm sorry for prying." He shook his head and smiled at me. It occurred to me then that I had never had so many strangers smile at me before. "I know we have only just met, so it might be difficult, but I would like nothing more than to be able to share our joy with you. Happiness can be so fleeting, after all…" The shadows in his eyes grew darker for a moment, but he willed them away. "We're all in this together, so I hope you will consent? I know the rest of the class feels the same." When had strangers cared about my happiness? I couldn't remember a single instance. "Well, come along, Professor!" He held out his hand to me. "Let's enjoy the fruits of our labor!"

Not sure how to respond, I reached out without thinking before hesitating. It had been a long time since a stranger had held their hand out to me. But his smile and gaze were so genuine that I found myself eventually taking his hand and letting him lead me to the dining hall. I didn't expect for anyone to really notice, unless they were looking for Dimitri, but to my surprise, almost all of my students noticed instantly. Before long at all, I was seated in between Dimitri and Claude, across from Edelgard, with a plate full of food in front of me. And the staff had no problems getting me seconds and thirds. ...And fourths. It was good! And eating gave me a convenient excuse to not talk while everyone else chattered about.

"I can't wait until we're out on a mission together, so that I can see how my schemes meld with our professor's tactics," Claude declared at one point during the feast, laughing brightly. He pretended to not notice the braids Hilda put in his hair. "Given what I saw today, it won't disappoint at all!"

"As much as I hate to agree with Claude, I am afraid I must," Lorenz sighed. Still he smiled and, surprisingly, served me some tea. It had a tangy taste to it, whatever it was, and it went well with… well, everything. "The breadth of your skill was on full display and your tactics were masterful."

"Wow, we're agreeing? Best make sure pigs aren't flying."

"Claude, must you be so droll?" Lorenz clicked his tongue, scowling at Claude. "You should conduct yourself-augh!" That noise was because Lysithea had 'accidentally' bumped into him while heading to her seat, resulting in him nearly falling on his ass. "Lysithea! Of all things…!"

"That was impressing, Professor!" Petra cheered, beaming at me as she sat down with another plate of food. Her expression faltered, though, as she realized she'd used the wrong word. "I mean… 'impressive'!"

"She's quite right," Ferdinand agreed, smiling proudly at me. Though he was a couple seats down, I noticed he had one of the flowers I'd given him tucked into his lapel. "I had been curious if your leadership skills matched your combat prowess, and you did not disappoint in the slightest!"

"Indeed!"

"Why are you all simply praising me?" I asked, feeling awkward and uncomfortable. Being good at battle… that wasn't anything amazing. It certainly wasn't something to praise. It just showed how much of a monster I was. "Have I simply missed the praise you had for each other? No one person can achieve… well, anything when it comes to battles." I waved a hand at everyone, frowning just a little. "You all are a cohort, remember? Compliment each other. It shouldn't be very hard. While there were mistakes, everyone also did very well."

"We were exchanging compliments earlier," Dimitri 'explained'. I noticed that he didn't really react to the food he was eating, which was strange. Almost everyone else was sighing and squealing in delight. Maybe he was just used to good food? "Edelgard surprised everyone by commenting on how cooperation was the key to success."

"Well, it is in a battle," Edelgard protested, pointedly taking a large bite of whatever she had on her plate. I didn't know the names of any of the dishes. "That was what led to your victory, is it not?"

"It played a very large role, yes." Dimitri glanced at Dedue next to him, as if he noticed something. "Dedue? Is something the matter?"

"No, it is simply…" Dedue began slowly. The chatter quieted down when everyone saw the noticeable surprise on his face. "Professor, may I ask how many plates you've had?" And at the question, everyone fell silent to look at the stack of plates next to me. Caspar even poked the slightly smaller stack of bowls on the other side of the plates. "Is that your stack only, or did others place theirs there?"

"No, they're mine?" I answered, doing my own count. There might have been a couple more than usual, but the food was good. "Is there a limit on how much food we can have?"

"No, there's isn't, but…"

"How did you eat all of that, and not have your stomach burst?" Ashe asked, eyes wide with surprise. He actually began trying to count the dishes. "Just looking at that many makes my stomach groan!"

"I think that's more than Ingrid," Sylvain commented. Ingrid tried to swat his shoulder, but he dodged it easily. "And Raphael."

"It's definitely more. I think it's more than both of them combined."

"...That had best not be a way to wriggle out of complimenting each other," I finally decided to say. This was so awkward… "I shall be most cross with all of you if that is the case. I meant it when I said it."

"Of course, but first, did you happen to save room for dessert?" Claude asked, his tone a little teasing. I debated for a moment, because I was mortified by the attention my eating got, but my love of sweets and sugar won out, so I nodded. "Great! Let's steal the first ones!"

Well, my first task as a professor completed. Now, to somehow make it through the year...

---

Hubert von Vestra

Crest: None

Heir to the House of Vestra, one of the oldest noble houses of the Empire, well known for serving as House Hresvelg's 'shadows'. Though his father is infamous for playing a role in the Insurrection of the Seven, his loyalty to Edelgard is absolute. As a result, he does whatever he can to protect her and further her goals, sometimes without her knowing.

Utilizes the rare 'Dark Magic', specifically learning those magics because fewer know about it, giving him an edge in combat. He is also a capable tactician, favoring efficient tactics and surgical strikes to terrorize and demoralize the enemy.

He cultivates an intimidating air, speaking slowly and with precision to peel away a person's masks and discover their true intentions and character. This demeanor, however, falls away whenever he doesn't have his morning coffee, as he requires at least three cups before he is by any means coherent.

Dedue Molinaro

Crest: None

Eldest son of a blacksmith and herbalist, one of the survivors of the Duscar genocide. Strangely, he serves as Dimitri's vassal, and harbors a loyalty that some might consider unhealthy. Few understand why he even serves, much less to such a zealous degree, mostly because most keep their distance, distrusting him due to his heritage and his stern appearance.

Mostly self-taught, as few in the castle wished to teach him anything, much less weaponry. He favors axes, since they are similar to hammers, and hand-to-hand combat, having some experience fending off those who would bully his younger sister. His greatest strength, however, is his defensive capabilities. While magic can ruin him, few weapons will ever bypass his shields.

A man of few words, Dedue's stoic demeanor belies his gentle heart and kind spirit. It also hides how his favorite pastimes include gardening and cooking. Though, some might say his 'favorite pastime' is actually worrying over Dimitri. It is not uncommon to see him fuss like a mother hen.

Hilda Valentine Goneril

Crest: Goneril (Minor)

Only daughter of House Goneril, which has historically protected the Alliance from Almyra for centuries. She's spoiled and lazy, very used to being doted on, but she also possesses a kind heart and is careful to not force anyone to do anything for her. Trickery, yes, but no force.

Despite her behavior and waifish figure, she specializes in axes just like all of House Goneril. Though she downplays her skills, she was taught personally by her brother, Holst, meaning she's much stronger than she lets on.

Surprisingly, she adores making accessories. All of her jewelry is personally made by her, from her necklaces and earrings to whatever hair ornaments she wears. She doesn't broadcast this skill of hers, not wanting any pressure, but one of the few times she gives her all is when making one as a gift for a friend.

---

Author's notes: And that's game-chapter 1 completed! The 'resonance effect' mentioned is a nod to the gambits and battalions. During the inter-house battles, you can think of the non-named students as the player char's battalions, though battalions themselves won't really be used much in the White Clouds portion of the novelization for the sake of my sanity.

There's a couple of mentions to supports here (specifically, Petra's C, and Dedue's C), so now is a good time to mention that for the 'story-locked' supports, I'm… not going to necessarily pay attention to the fact that they're story-locked. It depends on the support, but most notably is that some of the A supports will show up pre-timeskip, unlike in game. The free day has nods to the quests, though Flayn's was changed from a 'ceremony for Saint Cethleann' to simply getting fish for the kitchen. And instead of planting seeds for Dedue, it's just enjoying the greenhouse. (During the conversation with Bernie, there's mentions to the 'ask the professor a question' mechanic, as well as a nod to what she says when asking to specialize in bows.)

There's nothing really in-game that hints to Manuela giving Byleth a physical, but considering she's in charge of the infirmary, I figured she needed to know about Byleth's abnormally slow heartbeat, and a physical was a good way to do it. Oh, right, I know that in-game, Byleth has a pulse but no heartbeat, but that goes way past my ability to suspend disbelief. xD So, just abnormally slow instead. (Fun fact, apparently, the world record for the slowest resting heart rate in a healthy human is 26 or 27 BPM.) There's also nothing in game about the whole 'rare for twins to have crests' thing. It was just a random idea that… kind of sparked all of this, actually.

In the Blue Lion's route, Dimitri teases Byleth about how much they ate at the victory celebration… I think it's two times, but it could be more. That, and the fact it's a pretty common headcanon that Byleth can just eat a lot in general (thanks to the Dining Hall and the activity points) led to the teasing at the end. (Edelgard and Claude may also tease Byleth, but I can't remember.) The last part of the scene also has bits and pieces of the Black Eagle and Golden Deer versions of the 'Mock Battle' scene.